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City breaks February 17, 2020

Toulouse: Food and Rugby in La Ville Rose

If you’re an edacious foodie, die hard rugby fan, or all of the above, then a weekend in the blushing city of Toulouse is a must. Dubbed “La Ville Rose” thanks to the pinkish hue of the terracotta brickwork the city is famous for, this southern Occitanie gem is an Instagrammer’s dream. Picture perfect hidden courtyards, charming town squares and delectable cuisine aplenty, it’s hard not to be bewitched by the sights and sounds of this scintillating city.

Sitting close to the Spanish border and linked to the Mediterranean Sea by the 17th century Canal du Midi and Garonne River, Toulouse enjoys beautiful summers and relatively dry winters, perfect for a weekend (or longer) away, any time of year. Shopaholics are well provided for, with dozens of store lined streets surrounding St. Etienne Cathedral, whilst architecture and history buffs can fill their days checking out the numerous religious buildings, Theatre du Capitole, Jardin des Plantes, and the 16th Century Donjon du Capitole tower.

Whilst there are activities aplenty available in Toulouse, the thing I was most excited about was the food. In a city famous for its indoor markets, I was thrilled to be invited on a food tour with Taste of Toulouse, created by Jessica Hammer. Jessica offers English speaking walking tours of the Marche Victor Hugo, a gastronomic emporium of epic proportions. Selling everything from oven-warm baked baguettes, freshly caught seafood, and meat aged for years, it’s no surprise that many locals visit daily. Going to the market is a social affair rather than a domestic activity, with many attendees hanging around to drink wine and shuck oysters whilst catching up with the locals. The upper tier of the market houses a number of restaurants using the produce available downstairs to create traditional dishes with a modern twist. If you’ve not got time to hang around (or you’re a bit of a dinner party cheat), several stalls sell restaurant quality cooked dishes that you just need to reheat at home. Genius. We spent our tour scouting out some beautiful cured meats, cheeses, fois gras, bread and chocolate before enjoying our spread with a glass (or three) of wine.

When you’ve had your fill of fine food and wine, there’s no better way to spend the afternoon than cheering on Toulouse (or in our case, Gloucester, shhh), at Stade Ernest-Wallon, home of rugby in the Occitan region. Rugby reached Toulouse in 1907, with the club becoming one of the most successful in Europe having won the Heineken cup four times as well as being 20 time winners of the French Championship. The atmosphere is electrifying, yet the crowds remain friendly and jovial, with many spectators bringing their families along for a day out. Pack a chunky scarf and a warm coat, grab some snacks and a pitcher of beer, and brace yourself for an afternoon of excitement and flag waving.

If you fancy keeping it casual or you’re dedicated to the ‘Gram, Toulouse has plenty to see and photograph on foot. The buildings almost change colour during the day depending on the weather, meaning you could easily spend a long weekend photographing very similar areas with very different results. Place Sainte-Scarbes boasts a beautiful fountain and candy coloured shuttered buildings, yet is far enough from the main shopping area to stay relatively quiet during the day. Toulouse is bursting with minor details, small nuanced features that make beautiful photographs: the soft blue glass of the street lamps, the arched doorways, the pastel windows. It’s a veritable hide and seek of carefully crafted details just waiting to be found. And if you’re camera battery runs flat, there’s an abundance of high street stores and local artisan producers if you fancy splashing the cash. Toulouse has something for everyone, whether you’re a solo traveller, off on a romantic weekend away, or a family looking for a quiet break. Just make sure you get there before the rest of Instagram finds out about it.

The Lowdown:

How to get there: Return flights from London Heathrow to Toulouse cost as little as £60 return with British Airways (www.britishairways.com)

Where to stay: We stayed in the Citiz Hotel (18 allees Jean-Jeaures, 31000 Toulouse), a four star property only 20 minutes from the airport, close to excellent transport links, and a couple of minutes walk from the centre. Rooms start at 85 euros per night with some featuring wrap around balconies and large windows. You can book direct at www.citizhotel.com.

Where to eat: La Goumandine (17 Place Victor Hugo, 3100 Toulouse) offers three courses for 36 euros. For dinner, Hugette Café Cantine (15 bis Place du President Thomas Wilson) offers two/three courses for 16/18 euros respectively. Both establishments serve up delicious local dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Food tours: Taste of Toulouse offers English speaking walking tours of the Marche Victor Hugo on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturday mornings. Jessica also offers chocolate and pastry tours, along with private wine and cheese tasting tours. Each tour carries a maximum of 8 people and costs 70 euros per adult/child over 12 years old. You can book online at www.tasteoftoulouse.com

Rugby: Tickets for games at Stade Ernest-Wallon start at 18 euros and can be purchased online at www.stadetoulousain.fr

Doing it for the ‘gram: Place Sainte-Scarbes features a pretty fountain surrounded by blush pink buildings. Walk on for another few minutes to Place Wilson for a shot of the iconic carousel. Finally, Place du Capitole contains plenty of nooks and crannies for Insta-worthy shots.

Adventures February 13, 2020

Fall in love this Valentine’s Day with a romantic city break

Ideal for a Valentine’s getaway or for a romantic sojurn anytime of the year, feel the love with our round up of the world’s most luxurious hotels tailored for love.

Round Hill Hotel & Villas, Jamaica

Picture 100 acres of private lush grounds that surround the dazzling waters of Montego Bay. The Round Hill Hotel & Villas is the ideal destination for a sunshine-filled Caribbean break. Deemed as ‘the’ place to visit by the famous and glamorous in the 1950’s, this exclusive and luxrious resort ticks all the style boxes thanks to its 36 oceanfront guestrooms in the Ralph Lauren-designed Pineapple House and its 27 stunning villas.

Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada

With a chic blend of traditional Caribbean and contemporary style, the Spice Island Beach Resort in Grenada is Grenadian luxury personified. Guests can dine in the open-air gourmet restaurant where they can savour authentic local specialties in a fine dining atmosphere, while enjoying the very best of Grenada’s calypso, reggae and steel bands. It is perfectly positioned on the soft white sands of Grand Anse, Grenada’s most beautiful beach. This luxurious hotel offers superb, spacious accommodation, great spa facilities and excellent service.

Grand Hotel Continental, Tuscany

The only 5-star luxury hotel in the heart of Siena in Tuscany, the Grand Hotel Continental is adorned with original frescoes and rich decorations that can be found throughout the property. The Panoramic Suite is a realm of luxury, privacy and Italian elegance with unrivalled 360° view over Siena and the surrounding valleys. Absolutely bellisimo! Guests can enjoy a delicious meal in the Sapor di Vino restaurant teamed with a carefully-selected bottle of wine.

Jardin des Douars, Essaouira, Morocco

Taking inspiration from the rammed earth Kasbahs of the High Atlas, the Jardin des Douars which is located close to Essaouira sits upon a ridge-top that overlooks the Ksob river. Whilst the look is undoubtedly rustic-chic, there is still a sense of luxury thanks to the spa and the two heated pools.

The hotel looks like a fusion of a genteel country manor fused with a grand castle, lavishly decorated with glowing candles and soft deep pile rugs.

This is ideal for those who are looking for a real retreat and hanker after the peace and tranquillity of the surrounding olive trees and terracotta hills

Grand Hotel Europe, St Petersburg

With a prime location at the cultural heart of St Petersburg, The Grand Hotel Europe is one the city’s most celebrated landmarks. It is opulently decorated with gilded stucco ceilings, breath-taking stained glass, resplendent marble and dazzling chandeliers. The hotel has ten luxurious suites each of which has an individual design. Guests can dine at AZIA offers a daily Emotions Tasting Menu, which combines textures, perfumes, flavours, temperatures and colours to create a unique dining experience.

Hotel President Wilson, Geneva

Situated on the shores of Leman lake and just a few steps from the most beautiful parks and boutiques of the renowned Rue du Rhône, Hotel President Wilson is one of the most contemporary hotels in Geneva, facing the magnificent panorama of the Mont-Blanc.

With large bay-windows offering a panoramic view over Lake Leman, the hotel pool or Geneva city, all 204 Rooms and 22 Suites of the luxury hotel combine comfort and elegance. However, the acclaimed Royal Penthouse Suite is truly a sight to behold thanks to its terrace with panoramic view over the lake and the Mont-Blanc, the jacuzzi, spa, Steinway grand piano, the 103-inch Bang & Olufsen and beautiful furnishings. This truly unique suite stands for pure luxury with maximum security, from bulletproof windows, emergency alarm buttons and reinforced safe to a private lift to take guests directly to their majestic living quarters.

Live an exclusive experience at Spa La Mer and its outdoor pool overlooking the lake and succumb to the delicacy of the Michelin starred cuisine from famous Chef Michel Roth.

St. Regis Vommuli Resort, Maldives

Tucked away, on an exclusive private island reachable by seaplane is the St Regis – one of the most luxurious resort in the Maldives. Combining contemporary design and local craftsmanship, with a profound appreciation for the ecological environment, there is no other destination quite like this exquisite beach resort on Vommuli Island.

Private terraces that lead to pristine beaches and infinity pools with the Indian Ocean as a tranquil backdrop inspire moments of relaxation. The accommodation highlight has to be the Overwater St. Regis Suite – an elegant overwater retreat with stunning views of the Maldives lagoon, overwater hammocks and a romantic gazebo to take in the beauty of the house reef below

Guests can savour epicurean delights from all over the world in any of the six restaurants and bars—each inspired by authentic Italian, Middle Eastern and Asian flavours served in buffet, ala carte or tapas style. They can then restore their well-being with custom-made treatments at the over-water Iridium Spa.

The Palm, Dubai

Located in the heart of the Crescent, The Palm is part luxury hotel, part underwater-themed resort thanks to its two pools, waterpark and small, but perfectly formed man-made beach. Despite sticking rigidly to the underwater theme, guests can reside in opulent suites and can enjoy fine-dining cuisine at one of the 23 restaurants, bars and lounges – Ossiano and Nobu are recommended.

There are five different suites available, but the most striking is the Royal Bridge Suite which includes three lavishly-decorated bedrooms, an exquisitely designed lounge, with decor reflecting the opulence and stature of the suite and is perfect for entertaining and includes its own private library, games and media centre, majlis and massage room.

Hotel Arlberg, Lech

What could be more romantic than a snow-filled break with the one you love? Experience rustic charm at the Hotel Arlberg in the beautiful alpine town of Lech in Austria. The rooms are cosy and are elegantly decorated in traditional Austrian style. From the stunning spa where you can enjoy his and hers treatments to the fabulous wine tasting experience, your inner romantic can’t fail to escape.

Austria January 31, 2020

Lech – a destination for all seasons

Whether you love to ski, hike, bake or even try a spot of mountain top yoga, Lech in Austria is the place to be in 2020. In winter, it’s a ski bunny’s paradise and receives up to twice as much snow as some of its alpine counterparts. Lech is expecting snow in the next few days, so if you are looking for a great ski destination – head to this beautiful city for some snow-filled fun.

Travelling to Lech is a breeze. You can either fly into Innsbruck or Zurich – both of which make for a scenic drive or why not get the train? Langen am Arlberg is just 15 km away from the centre of Lech. There is also a special ski coach that you can take in winter which takes you directly from Zurich to the hotel.

We stayed in the beautiful and charming Hotel Arlberg which is conveniently situated in the heart of this picturesque town. This five-star ski and wellness boutique hotel is a luxury alpine retreat brimming in character and is run by a friendly and professional family team who have previously hosted the likes of Princess Diana.

The décor is luxurious yet eclectic and has subtle nods to its mountain surroundings. Think rustic cool where you will find both objet d’art and stylish accessories sitting side-by-side. The rooms are huge and are elegantly furnished.

We loved spending time in the hotels elegant spa where you can enjoy relaxing massages, rejuvenating facials and more. We highly recommend the Susanne Kaufman facial which will bring your winter weary skin back to life in the space of just one hour.

Wellness is certainly a huge theme in Lech. The town and its inhabitants pride themselves on relaxation and rejuvenation. Locals and tourists are encouraged to take part in holistic activities such as barefoot hiking, sound walking and more.

There is so much to do in Lech and it really is a great destination for skiing. However, if you would prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground (as opposed to a pair of skis) then Lech won’t disappoint. You can try your hand at some mountain top yoga in the spring, pilates or even a cookery class at the hotel where you can make some delicious local delicacies under the watchful eye of the hotels acclaimed pastry chef.

Wine lovers simply must try the hotel’s wine tasting experience where co-owner Patrick will take you through a superb selection of wines that are certain to impress. If you didn’t love Austrian wine before you arrive in Lech, you will certainly leave Austria with a new passion for the region’s wines.

If you are looking to try a variety of different activities, we recommend that you acquire a ‘My Lech’ card which will give you access to lots of fun things to do in the warmer months in Lech.

From admiring the views from a cable car to taking an e-bike tour where you can navigate your way down the mountain. You can even take a herb hiking tour where you can discover the best that nature has to offer in this pretty town.

Lech is definitely one of the prettiest towns in Austria, so make sure that you add this to your places to stay in 2020 and beyond bucket list.

Book your room – https://arlberghotel.at/en/

Azerbaijan January 27, 2020

Wake Up Here: Ajwa Sultanahmet Hotel Istanbul Turkey

Biting into a sweet, gooey date as I sipped my Turkish tea was the perfect welcome to the Ajwa Sultanahmet Hotel Istanbul Turkey. It even overtook (just slightly, because of my stomach’s rumbling) the fancy car service that transported me from the airport to the hotel.

Experience Luxury and Elegance

The gorgeous Ajwa Sultanahmet Istanbul is exactly that – gorgeous. The stunning architecture is what catches your eye as soon as it is in sight – regardless of the time of the day as either the sun is hitting the walls, making the gold shine strong and the white stone appear to have flecks of pink and blue; or the entire hotel is a glowing building, standing out completely on the corner of the street. The hotel is what I’d imagine a Turkish princess’s first ‘home away from home’ to be. A beautiful grand entrance, stunning and ornate decor – featuring only the best artists’ handiwork – and a private hammam to indulge in a cleansing scrub.

The interiors of the hotel are even more decorative, with the furniture being a mixture of locally-made designs, as well as some from Damascus. The chairs and cabinets feature beautiful Mother of Pearl details and each floor showcases Azerbaijani (or Azeri) artwork on the walls. If you take a liking to this kind of design, be sure to visit the nearby shops which double as art galleries – they sell different pieces of furniture, as well as Persian rugs.

Biting into a sweet, gooey date as I sipped my Turkish tea was the perfect welcome to the Ajwa Sultanahmet Hotel Istanbul Turkey. It even overtook (just slightly, because of my stomach’s rumbling) the fancy car service that transported me from the airport to the hotel.

Experience Luxury and Elegance

The gorgeous Ajwa Sultanahmet Istanbul is exactly that – gorgeous. The stunning architecture is what catches your eye as soon as it is in sight – regardless of the time of the day as either the sun is hitting the walls, making the gold shine strong and the white stone appear to have flecks of pink and blue; or the entire hotel is a glowing building, standing out completely on the corner of the street. The hotel is what I’d imagine a Turkish princess’s first ‘home away from home’ to be. A beautiful grand entrance, stunning and ornate decor – featuring only the best artists’ handiwork – and a private hammam to indulge in a cleansing scrub.

The interiors of the hotel are even more decorative, with the furniture being a mixture of locally-made designs, as well as some from Damascus. The chairs and cabinets feature beautiful Mother of Pearl details and each floor showcases Azerbaijani (or Azeri) artwork on the walls. If you take a liking to this kind of design, be sure to visit the nearby shops which double as art galleries – they sell different pieces of furniture, as well as Persian rugs.

Indulge in Opulence

This stunning artwork continues within the Ajwa hotel rooms; my bathroom door is open as I walk in so I am immediately greeted by beautiful blue patterned tiles and rose gold finishing. Mother of Pearl is present in the furniture and that’s probably all I focus on as, afterwards, my attention was very much so diverted to the large bed that was calling my name. There are 48 Deluxe Rooms (of which I was lucky to secure one) but if you’re looking for something slightly more swish, the hotel offers a Presidential Suite and even separate guesthouses if you’re travelling in a group.

Breakfast at Ajwa is an impressive display. You can opt for the buffet which offers an array of treats: eggs, courgette and spinach fritters, Turkish sausages; pides; labneh – the works. Alternatively, you can order a la carte, including the traditional Turkish breakfast spread…which pretty much includes every item on the buffet and more. I’d definitely recommend a sunrise breakfast as the panoramic view from the restaurant is so pretty – you can see a mixture of the Old City and the Marmara Sea.

Discover the Rich History and Culinary Delights of Istanbul

Lunch and dinner are served on the same top floor, in the Zeferan restaurant and the Azerbaijani chef cooks up a feast every mealtime. Whether plates full of grilled meats, salads and ‘shakh plov’ (a local rice dish) or Sultan’s stew (lamb with aubergine purée) and yoghurt soup; one thing is for certain – I did not go hungry here.

With the Old City right on your doorstep, you’re minutes away from impressive and historical sights such as the Blue Mosque, the Haiga Sophia and Topkapi Palace. The hotel concierge was only too happy to fix me up with a tour guide – I have been to Istanbul before but you learn so much more about the cultural spots with someone who knows all about them. For example, my guide told me that there are over 21,647 tiles making up the Blue Mosque (so named because of the dark blue titles on the interior design and, over time, the name changed from Dark Blue Tiled Mosque to Blue Mosque). Another interesting fact I was told, was that it took 10,000 people to build the Haiga Sophia over five years – and it took 13,000 kg of gold in expenses. My jaw definitely dropped at this point.

Immerse Yourself in Luxury and Tradition

A trip to the famous Grand Bazaar was a hectic but fascinating experience, as I loaded up with spices, ceramics and jewellery. It’s easy to get lost inside – and it’s no wonder as the Grand Bazaar is home to five mosques, two fountains, 67 roads, 40 doors and even a school.

After a busy day of walking the streets of Istanbul, nothing is more appealing than a trip to the hammam I mentioned earlier. The Afiya Spa at the hotel is something everyone should definitely experience. I had received the traditional Turkish treatment before but the hammam room at Ajwa was by far one of the most beautiful I’d seen and well worth a visit. The Turkish Bath treatment takes place in the spa and after a menthol steam room session, I enjoyed a thorough scrubbing. It wasn’t as harsh as I’ve had this treatment before which is fantastic, as you can really relax as you’re getting exfoliated and becoming the cleanest you’ve ever been. Seriously – the cleanest I’ve been in my life.

A magical stay that I would definitely recommend for anyone wanting a boutique hotel experience while being footsteps from the majority of Istanbul’s best gems.

Indulge in Opulence

This stunning artwork continues within the Ajwa hotel rooms; my bathroom door is open as I walk in so I am immediately greeted by beautiful blue patterned tiles and rose gold finishing. Mother of Pearl is present in the furniture and that’s probably all I focus on as, afterwards, my attention was very much so diverted to the large bed that was calling my name. There are 48 Deluxe Rooms (of which I was lucky to secure one) but if you’re looking for something slightly more swish, the hotel offers a Presidential Suite and even separate guesthouses if you’re travelling in a group.

Breakfast at Ajwa is an impressive display. You can opt for the buffet which offers an array of treats: eggs, courgette and spinach fritters, Turkish sausages; pides; labneh – the works. Alternatively, you can order a la carte, including the traditional Turkish breakfast spread. Which pretty much includes every item on the buffet and more. I’d recommend a sunrise breakfast as the panoramic view from the restaurant is so pretty – you can see a mixture of the Old City and the Marmara Sea.

Discover the Rich History and Culinary Delights

Lunch and dinner are served on the same top floor, in the Zeferan restaurant and the Azerbaijani chef cooks up a feast every mealtime. Whether plates full of grilled meats, salads and ‘shakh plov’ (a local rice dish) or Sultan’s stew (lamb with aubergine purée) and yoghurt soup; one thing is for certain – I did not go hungry here.

With the Old City right on your doorstep, you’re minutes away from impressive and historical sights such as the Blue Mosque, the Haiga Sophia and Topkapi Palace. The hotel concierge was only too happy to fix me up with a tour guide – I have been to Istanbul before but you learn so much more about the cultural spots with someone who knows all about them. For example, my guide told me that there are over 21,647 tiles making up the Blue Mosque (so named because of the dark blue titles on the interior design and, over time, the name changed from Dark Blue Tiled Mosque to Blue Mosque). Another interesting fact I was told, was that it took 10,000 people to build the Haiga Sophia over five years – and it took 13,000 kg of gold in expenses. My jaw definitely dropped at this point.

Immerse Yourself in Luxury and Tradition

A trip to the famous Grand Bazaar was a hectic but fascinating experience, as I loaded up with spices, ceramics and jewellery. It’s easy to get lost inside – and it’s no wonder as the Grand Bazaar is home to five mosques, two fountains, 67 roads, 40 doors and even a school.

After a busy day of walking the streets of Istanbul, nothing is more appealing than a trip to the hammam I mentioned earlier. The Afiya Spa at the hotel is something everyone should experience. I had received the traditional Turkish treatment before but the hammam room at Ajwa was by far one of the most beautiful I’d seen and well worth a visit. The Turkish Bath treatment takes place in the spa and after a menthol steam room session, I enjoyed a thorough scrubbing. It wasn’t as harsh as I’ve had this treatment before which is fantastic, as you can relax as you’re getting exfoliated and becoming the cleanest you’ve ever been. Seriously – the cleanest I’ve been in my life.

A magical stay that I would recommend for anyone wanting a boutique hotel experience while being footsteps from the majority of Istanbul’s best gems.

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Adventures January 16, 2020

Seven Reasons to Visit Santa Barbara in 2020

Rapidly cementing its status as a top destination for foodie travellers, Santa Barbara’s culinary scene has never been better. Situated just two hours north of Los Angeles, California, the region holds all the raw ingredients for great wining, dining and culture – from year-round produce and sustainable seafood to world-class vineyards, not to mention a blossoming art scene to boot. Here’s why you should visit in 2020…

Devour world-class food in fabulous surroundings

In recent years, a flurry of new chefs have arrived in Santa Barbara who are applying a high level of skill to the abundant local produce. Forget stuffy white table cloths and smart dress codes, this city is all about laidback luxury. Serving up some of California’s most innovative dining experiences, a number of recently opened restaurants have been wowing locals and visitors alike. Try Bibi-Ji, Santa Barbara’s first contemporary Indian, serving playful spins on classics with a menu that highlights the local seafood served ‘sea-to-table’, Tyger Tyger, a dynamic 1,900-square-foot marketplace featuring ‘fast-fine’ Southeast Asian cuisine, or Loquita, a lively Spanish-style restaurant in the Funk Zone.

There’s a brand new culinary festival

Santa Barbara is on the cusp of launching a city-wide extravaganza, the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience, presented in partnership with the Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts. The event, taking place 13-15 March 2020, is a new annual festival celebrating the bounty of what is grown in and around Santa Barbara, including a tasting event showcasing the best of Santa Barbara’s food and drink, hands-on cooking classes, food trend talks, and more. A new map of Julia Child’s favourite Santa Barbara haunts, specially created for release during the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience, will enable visitors to follow in the famous chef’s footsteps any time of year.

…And a burgeoning art scene

In addition to a growing creative scene, which is evident throughout Santa Barbara’s creative Funk Zone, Santa Barbara Museum of Art will reveal a newly expanded, multi-floor wing in spring 2020, housing photography, Asian art and other exciting exhibits. To open the new wing, the museum will host an exhibit on Vincent van Gogh and his influences, “Through Vincent’s Eyes,” in October 2020. By presenting around 15 works of art by Van Gogh alongside more than 125 works of art selected to reflect the surprisingly varied art that he most admired, the landmark exhibition makes Santa Barbara one to watch on the art circuit.

It’s an Instagrammer’s dream

The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive in Santa Barbara is how pretty it is. Spanish colonial style architecture, pristine streets lined with shops, restaurants, wineries and boutiques, a gorgeous harbour and miles of sandy beaches make it a picture-perfect holiday destination. Delve a bit deeper and you’ll find that the interiors really live up to the city’s shiny exterior. Instagram’s great and good stay at the Martyn Lawrence Bullard-designed Hotel Californian, where Spanish colonial revival architecture and a modern Moorish vibe combine, creating a design infusion begging to be photographed.

It’s the perfect spot to rosé (or pinot) all day

Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the cult-classic film Sideways brought worldwide fame for Santa Barbara wine country. Wine consumption increased in general while the demand for elegant, and highly quaffable, pinot noir shot up. The Oscar-winning movie was filmed almost entirely on-location throughout Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara County. Nowadays, you don’t need to trawl from vineyard to vineyard to get your hands on some of the destination’s celebrated bottles. Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail offers both novices and aficionados the opportunity to learn about and taste the wines of many different varieties and styles crafted by the County’s best winemakers. 30 wineries across the California city now make up the trail and can be explored by foot, bike or taxi.

Relax in the lap of luxury

Accommodation in Santa Barbara comes in many shapes and sizes. Curl up in a hillside hideaway like the iconic Belmond El Encanto, immerse yourself right in the action at Harbor View Inn’s brand new downtown wing or relax in the lap of luxury at Rosewood Miramar Beach Montecito, which opened just last year. On a budget? No bother. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, lies El Capitan Canyon, a resort boasting fully furnished cedar-lined cabins with vaulted ceilings and French doors opening onto El Capitan Beach and offering incredible ocean views.

Live the true California beach life

After soaking the city’s food and culture, it’s time to hit the beach. With miles of sun-drenched and sandy coastline, there’s a spot to suit every type of traveller, from surf-seekers to families. Dog lovers should head to Arroyo Burro Beach, better known to locals as Hendry’s Beach, where pooches revel on the dog-friendly flat sands. If surfing is your bag, Leadbetter Beach is best for catching waves, while sophisticates will enjoy the pristine sands of Butterfly Beach, where cocktails can be taken at the nearby Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. Heading closer to town, family-friendly East Beach is located next to Stearns Wharf, with lifeguard stations, a playground and cafés.

Adventures November 21, 2019

Why the collapse of Thomas Cook is inspiring The Gambia to new heights

The collapse of Thomas Cook has been devastating not just for the 21,000 directly employed by the company but also to countless suppliers throughout the UK, across Europe and even in Africa. The Gambia is one of those countries severely affected as the airline flew in 45% of holidaymakers last season. However, the country affectionately known as “the smiling coast of Africa” hasn’t been drowning in sorrow but instead proactively looking to diversify their customer base and offerings.

The fly and flop business model is no longer seen as the way forward but more enriching, immersive experiences that benefit both the visitors and the locals are being championed.

The classics that are withstanding the test of time

Katchikally crocodile pool might have been around for centuries but it stills captures the imagination of visitors wanting to get up close and personal to these splendid reptilian creatures. There are around 100 crocodiles on this 9-acre site with around 250kg of fish fed daily at 08:30 to ensure they are not hungry by the time visitors start arriving. They’ve also opened up a community-run ethnographic museum nearby which details the history of the Bakau area and also the ethnic groups in this diverse country. This sacred area is also important to locals as people come to pray for blessings and the pool is known for its healing powers.

Tanji fishing village is what I would describe as “the Wall Street” of the fishing industry. This is quite possibly the craziest, most hectic and muddy fish market you will ever come across. Multi-coloured fishing boats line the shores of Tanji as they bring back their rich hordes of aquatic produce. Gambians can be seen swimming frantically by the side of these boats hoping to catch a fallen fish whilst on the shore, you will hear endless echoes of haggling, trading and negotiating.

The Wassu stone circles might not be as impressive as Stonehenge, but as recognised by UNESCO, the Senegambian stone circles are “the largest concentration of stone circles seen anywhere in the world.” The tallest stone has a height of 2.59 metres and they must have shown a tremendous technical ability to be able to extract and transport them without cracking or splitting the stones. They also represent what must have been a prosperous and well-coordinated society in the area.

The new offerings making waves in The Gambia

Kayaking seems to be the de jour activity these days for the adventurous types, but the offering at Tanji Bird Reserve is unique to what you might find elsewhere. The Gambia is an ornithological heaven with 500+ species of birds available; at the mangroves of Tanji, you can study some of them up close and personal, such as the Caspian tern, whilst paddling along the stream at your own leisure.

Community-based tourism is likely to be on the rise in the coming years and you can experience this at the Ndemban homestay. They have created purposely built tourist accommodation in the local village there so you can help sustain indigenous communities whilst experiencing the culture and eco-friendly principles of the Jola community. You might be roasting peanuts, working in the garden with local women or even playing football with the local children.

The chimp rehabilitation project in The Gambia isn’t a new initiative, having informally started in 1969. However, it is a project that has been about returning chimpanzees to their natural habitat from those that have been held in captivity. Currently, there are 130 chimps living on Baboon island and it is only in recent years they’ve been accepting small groups of interested tourists on boat trips to observe these simians. Tourists, as well as staff, are not allowed to set foot on the island for conservation reasons.

Hotel options in The Gambia: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

There are a plethora of options to choose from when visiting The Gambia. If there is any good news from the demise of Thomas Cook, it would be the move away from the cheap and cheerful, all-inclusive packages popular with their previous customers to more boutique varieties to cater to a wider spectrum of customers.

Ocean Bay Hotel and Kombo Beach Hotel are 2 options that are popular with British tourists but I would say sadly due a refurbishment (the latter was built in 1984). For a country offering a cornucopia of fruits, it was remarkable to still see cordial and tinned fruits being served in some cases.

For those seeking the more cutting-edge hotels built in recent years, you should be on the lookout for Tamala Beach Resort and African Princess Beach Hotel. Both have previously worked with the more upscale, discerning Thomas Cook customers; but the former seems to be doing better, having diversified to cater for more European groups such as German and Dutch tour operators whilst the latter seems to be going through a more muted phase with the demise of Thomas Cook.

Tamala Beach Resort could easily rival the very best designed European hotels in the Mediterranean and that wouldn’t be a surprise given they’ve collaborated with Swedish designers to offer a clean, minimalist design with an African twist and you are likely to win plenty of plaudits when you can dive straight from your balcony into their main pool area.

For up-country lodges, there is the Sindola Safari Lodge which is next to the former residence of their dictatorial president, Yahya Jammeh and undoubtedly this was where he would entertain foreign dignitaries. The grounds are immaculately manicured but the rooms themselves do still need plenty of work, especially when guests struggle to even get hot water.

Morgan Kunda Lodge is arguably the most basic of all the accommodation offerings mentioned, but you can’t help fall in love with the charms of the staff members who work there and the local villagers. It is primarily a bird-watching sanctuary where you can see the rare Egyptian plover, white-crested tiger bittern and martial eagle. However, the real charm is speaking with the locals and their inspirational stories to boost education and work opportunities for local villagers. 30% of the children are orphans who have lost one or more parents who tried leaving for Europe via the treacherous “back way” through Libya. The unexpected highlight was watching local ladies perform a thrilling, traditional dance that they normally undertake to encourage fertility.

The Gambia might offer some of the most alluring sandy beaches for winter sun around, but when you delve a little further into the local community, you will discover something altogether more rewarding and life-changing. Thomas Cook might not be around anymore, but there are a host of new options ready to step into the breach including TAP Air Portugal and Tui; so make sure The Gambia is still on your radar when you consider a destination for your next holiday.

https://www.visitthegambia.gm/

Coco Couples October 16, 2019

Romance on the Road; True Love or a Summer Fling?

You all know we’re big fans of the #CocoCouples here at House of Coco. But what about those babes among us who are unattached? Free spirits ready to find ourselves, see the world, and fall head over heels for the man, or woman, of our dreams. Well, where better to do so than in a foreign exotic locale?

We’ve all been there; sharing life stories alone on a rooftop in Malta, tossing back cocktails on the water’s edge in Croatia, or wrapping a deadly snake around your neck in Thailand, and it’s at that moment you find yourself hopelessly in love. And in the moment it seems so perfect. They seem like your dream partner, and when you’re with them nothing else seems to matter. Eventually though, these romances always seem to fizzle out. Perhaps your journeys head in different directions; perhaps you return home only to find that exotic accents and carefree attitudes aren’t the most important things to a successful relationship. Does this fizzle mean that what you had was just a summer fling, not true love?

If you find yourself pondering these questions, it might be worth considering a lie detector test. While it may sound unconventional, a lie detector test can help you uncover the truth and determine whether the love you experienced was genuine or merely a fleeting affair. By assessing the physiological responses of both partners, a lie detector test can provide insights into their emotional and physical reactions, shedding light on the authenticity of the connection.

So, before you let the memories of that passionate romance fade away, consider taking a lie detector test to gain clarity. After all, knowing the truth can help you move forward and make informed decisions about your love life.

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A post shared by Domi & Frida ✈Travel Couple (@weloveourlife) on Oct 10, 2019 at 6:15am PDT

There has been a whole lot of research conducted into travel romances that seeks to answer this very question. And whilst it can’t tell you why your last on the road romance crashed and burned, there are some pretty interesting insights into why you fell head over heels for that Texan bartender against all your better judgements.

Research conducted by social and behavioural psychologists Dr Dutton and Dr Aron came to the conclusion that when placed in unfamiliar or dangerous new environments, the spike in adrenaline caused their subjects to find others more attractive. Their work has shown that physiological stimulation can cause the lines between romantic attraction and just plain loving your surroundings to become blurred.

Their study focused on a ‘scary suspension bridge’ case and led the researchers to believe that if you’re physically or physiologically stimulated in some way, be that by fear of the bridge, or in awe of the beautiful scenery, and you happen to be standing near a person of reasonable attraction, you could potentially misinterpret this as a love connection. They note that these findings are evident when travelling, because you’re more likely going to be in an environment that provokes excitement. So it’s entirely possible that you’re not in love with the person, but with the situation itself. And when you’re on the road, constantly met with a dazzling array of culture, architecture and food, the chances of you falling in love skyrocket.

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Those of you out there with a few travel romances under your belt have a pretty good idea of how these things tend to go. You meet, and in a few short, sharp and hopefully sweet days, you’re enamoured. You’ve crammed at least 4 weeks worth of dating into 4 days; instead of catching up for drinks once a week, you’ve spent all your time exploring a beautiful and enriching place together and the compressed time has led to an intense love affair that has your head spinning.

And science has the answers here too. Studies conducted by the University of Birmingham highlight the similarities between the behavioural effects of the hormone oxytocin – better known as ‘the love hormone’ – and alcohol consumption. Their study concludes more or less that being in love is a lot like being drunk. It inhibits our sense of fear, leading us to trust certain people and certain situations without thinking rationally. Much like you would after a few too many Long Island Iced Teas.

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However, these studies, and the multitude more of them there are out there, indicate a particular finding that isn’t explicitly addressed. These studies acknowledge the variety of biological and behavioural scientific explanations as to why foreign bartenders get your heart racing, and whilst they can conclude that these romances on the road are not always legit, they do acknowledge them as love.

We are led to believe, by Shakespeare, Walt Disney, and pretty much any Ryan Gosling movie, that in order to be real, love has to last forever. These studies, and my own personal research into the topic as a chronic travel romancer, negate this lofty ideal. Whether it lasts for 3 days, 3 years or a lifetime; whether it’s the intoxication of your oxytocin or a misinterpretation of your own arousal, travel romances are very much the real deal. Just because it comes to an end, like unfortunately, all holidays do, doesn’t mean it wasn’t ‘true love’ whatever that term means. So next time a rose lands in front of you at a bar in a tiny Italian town courtesy of the man at the table across from you with the beautiful eyes, go over and say hello, even if he doesn’t speak English. Because everyone deserves a little romance, even if it’s mostly science.

Adventures October 2, 2019

Why Villa Week Needs To Be On Your Bucket List

In July 2017 the first ever The Villa Week was organised for former guests and friends of their brand VillaGG.com. It got booked right away and everyone loved the idea of an all-inclusive organised holiday.

From then on, they continued to expand the initial idea, integrating new exceptional events and ultimately reaching the goal of the > all-in-one > all-inclusive > luxury holiday > experience. Everything that we love here at House of Coco magazine. With travel being what we live for, we went along to meet The Villa Week to find out more about the brand that needs to be on your bucket list…

Who is the perfect The Villa Week customer?
Someone very familiar, namely a person with a fairly sized bucket list of experiences he never had the time to do cross off and is getting seriously freaked out that life will pass by without getting close to tick off those checkboxes. Does that ring a bell? Oh wait, yes, that’s you!

You as our perfect traveler settles for nothing less than full comfort and flexibility while he’s hungry to experience action-packed adventures with plenty of ‘do it for the ‘gram’ dose of dressed-up luxury opportunities.

Namely, in today’s tourism world, adventures are often reliant on niches – bikers should take cycling trips, yoga lovers should attend yoga retreats, and comfort should only be reserved for hotels and cruises that are full of retirees and families after ease. Unfortunately, this leaves out an enthusiastic group of open-minded people who want to have it all across one week, and that is why we created the week of everything.

What sets you apart from other travel brands?
Maybe one comment on our YouTube video summed it up pretty nicely “this looks like a James Bond lifestyle holiday – just without the stress.”

Basically, it’s a 7-day experience packed with almost 40 different activities including diverse adventures, educational outing, local food, culture all organized around your stay in outstanding luxurious accommodation. However, what REALLY sets us apart from anything on the market is best explained in our hashtag #LeaveYoyrWalletAtHome

Yes, you got that right. If you don’t like hidden fees that always lurk aside until the start of your regular holiday or if you simply don’t want to carry your wallet around looking for exchange offices, price lists and TripAdvisor reviews. We now offer you something completely new. From the moment you land until your flight back, every detail is included from the helicopter ride to the wine tasting bringing a whole new dimension to the word ALL-INCLUSIVE.

It should be noted that even drinks in clubs are included so you can turn your brain off and enjoy the ride as your hosts take care of all the details, itinerary, food, even packing tips. We like to run it down to the smallest details so we took years of planning and experience in order to bring the concept of a group driven, like – minded individuals and taking them to places that are stunning and mind blowing, but also creating feelings and friendships that far outlast the trip itself.

Your concept is really fun and unique, what can guests expect by getting involved with Villa Week

Imagine a magical world of freedom with the option to choose what odyssey fits into your plans for the day. A fine-tuned and delicately detailed week away where you don’t have to move a limb if you don’t want to while staying at all inclusive villas.

Expect the holiday not having to think from the moment you step off the airplane to the cheeks you kiss to say goodbye. The flawless dinner without frantically collecting money to pay the bill at the end. Imagine getting to keep your wallet locked away at home for an entire week.

Or better yet, visualize having your hangover wishes granted as a masseuse joins you poolside to rub away the pain – and when the headache subsides? A private driver brings you back to the fun via speed boat or luxury transfer, of if you don’t feel like it, the private chef in the villa cooks a meal just for you as you float around the villa pool.

What can people expect to see from you in 2020

They can expect the James Bond lifestyle holiday getting even more 007 with new additional experiences reaching now almost 40 different experiences in one single week creating the ultimate feeling after you have been through it all. New additions are SKYDIVING that was already introduced this year to PAINTBALL target shooting, SALSA LESSONS, LUXURY CAR drive, SCUBA DIVING and finally WINE TASTING to complement the already famous gin tasting party!
As we recall in one of the reviews, you will have a hard time remembering all that you did in those 7 days but the feeling inside reminds you constantly that you did something extraordinary.

Since you launched three years ago, what has been the highlight?

The best thing is no matter how hard we push the villa week forward working hard on meeting the expectations of our customers and doing an inch more, so we blow they mind every year with new experiences. Interestingly customers always highlight different things and we just love that diversity. Some top the helicopter ride others the ATV adventure and again someone else the mega catamaran day at sea, however from 2019 skydiving definitely the lead, at least for those who dared to try.

However, the most outstanding highlight may not even be the week itself, but the positive memories, motivation, and inspiration that no one ever expects but will feed into your mental bank for a lifetime. The Villa Week is an exclusive and unrivaled experience you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the world and it will keep your cup of creativity full of beauty, bravery, and bliss. The adventure will power the machine that drives your revitalized spirit; an adrenaline rush no drug can buy so brace yourselves, The Villa Week rests beneath your fingertips, ready to whisk you away to a promised land of wanderlust. And if you’re still not convinced, you can take a peek at our program here.

The Villa Week is an approach to what a ‘holiday’ was envisioned as at its discovery. And now, you have the chance to unearth the best bits of Croatia and uncover the best parts of you in the process.

Where can people find out more
villaweek.com

Instagram.com/villaweek

Facebook.com/villaweek

Youtube.com/villaweek

Adventures September 30, 2019

5 Volunteer Programmes for your Inner Travel Bug

For a growing number of travellers, volunteering in a remote corner of the world is the trip of a lifetime. It can be an excellent way for individuals to learn about a different culture and explore a country while helping those in need. Much of the rise in voluntourism has come from trips that emphasize social work, many run by relatively young organisations but it’s important that those looking to get involved, make sure that they choose the right organisation with many commercial tour operators have moved into the space, acknowledging its money-making potential.

With this in mind, #TeamCoco has spent time looking into some of the best options out there, including award-winning programs that really make a difference and are recognised for using short-term volunteers to assist in long-term gain.

Global Vision International UK has been offering award-winning volunteer and intern programs abroad since 1994. They not only offer life-changing experiences but they are also designed to help participants increase employability. Other than developing covetable skills such as cross-cultural communication and leadership, many of the programs also carry internationally recognised qualifications certified by academic partners. The programs on offer are wide-reaching and range from marine and wildlife conservation to teaching and female empowerment in local communities around the world.

For more information please visit www.gvi.co.uk

Pack for a Purpose takes a new slant on backpacking and is something that I would encourage all those looking to travel to a far-flung destination to check that you can get involved. Pack for a Purpose is a nonprofit organization based in Raleigh, North Carolina, that provides travelers with up-to-date information about needed supplies for community-based projects supported by accommodations around the globe. Travelers use their luggage to take school, medical and other supplies to the communities they visit. Since 2010 Pack for Purpose travellers has taken over 153,327kgs of supplies meeting essential needs in over 60 countries. The website makes it easy to select a destination and purpose, choosing from education, health, child welfare, animal welfare and socio-economic development. There are plenty of other ways to participate and donate.

For more information please visit www.packforapurpose.org

Planeterra Foundation was established in 2003 and is a non-profit organisation that has contributed millions of dollars towards projects in areas of social enterprise, healthcare, conservation and emergency response. The organisation gives short-term volunteers the opportunity to work with long-term volunteers to help towards long-term change in some of the most under-developed regions in the world or places that have been torn apart by natural disasters or war. Not only that, they work with small communities across projects that promote female empowerment by providing life-changing access to education and job-training; forge new paths for youths in many parts of the world that don’t have access to formal education and have few opportunities for jobs, helping them to develop skills to work in tourism and hospitality; and environmental protection helping to mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on the natural environment through their Ocean Health Fund and supporting social enterprises that give back to the environment. Importantly, they also help conserve cultures by recognising the unique offerings of that indigenous and rural communities have for tourism. They do this by creating meaningful connections between travellers and indigenous people through social enterprise.

Find out more and get involved at www.planeterra.org

WAVES International is a program that helps teach local disadvantaged children in Peru, Mexico, Guatemala and Nicaragua to surf. They believe that surf travel should benefit the people and the communities where it happens, connecting the dots between volunteering, travelling to surf, community-based tourism and grassroots initiatives. WAVES originated in 2004 when a group of local and international surfers shared the desire to help local youths with little resources to enjoy surfing. Their mission is to inspire world travel and cultural exchange through surf experiences with an emphasis on sustainability, education, adventure and voluntourism.

Find out more on www.wavesfordevelopment.org or you can donate here

FRONTEERING’s volunteer abroad projects are either existing local projects of projects that are built from the ground up by Fronteering. Their mission is to offer projects and help where the need is greatest with focus on helping local communities, wildlife, indigenous people and the environment in cooperation with the local and indigenous communities where combined efforts really make a difference. Uniquely, Fronteering also arranges one-of-a-kind, exciting and in some cases extreme adventure travel trip to experience the last frontiers on the planet for those looking to combine the two.

For more information, please visit www.fronteering.com

And remember: the thing your host community needs and wants is your money. Where will yours be going? Do not be afraid to ask the organisers. Also, look to well-established organisations like the ones above or https://www.unv.org and https://ecotourism.org for advice and news on volunteering around the world.

Adventures September 30, 2019

Top 5 Routes for Avid Backpackers

For the intrepid adventurers out there, there’s nothing quite like a backpacking trip. Heading out into nature with just the essentials and some good friends is one of the best ways to really experience a destination.

With every continent offering an array of terrains and climates, it’s safe to say there are plenty of backpacking routes to be explored. From one side of the world to the other, here are the top five routes for any avid backpacker.

Inca Trail, Machu Picchu

In terms of backpacking, it doesn’t get any more iconic than Machu Picchu. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Inca Trail up to Machu Picchu only permits 400 hikers a day – and for good reason!

The rather tricky ascent will see you following in the path of the Incas themselves with winding paths, ladders and staircases. The higher up you get, the harder the trail becomes. In some cases, there are even ropes to help you up the steep climbs.

This is a hike that will take at least two days for experienced walkers, so it’s definitely not one for the novice backpacker. In fact, due to the varying heights along the route, there is even a risk of altitude sickness.

If you’re still feeling up to the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of lush greenery, mountainous landscapes and, of course, the ancient ruins themselves.

The West Highland Way, Scotland

It’s easy to forget that there are such incredible hiking opportunities right here in the UK. Venture out into the Scottish Highlands for an unforgettable five-day hike on the West Highland Way.

Starting in Glasgow, this route carves through the unbeatable Scottish landscape before ending in Fort William. The vista in Scotland is second to none with dramatic peaks, free-falling waterfalls endless rolling fields of heathers.

And, if you’re feeling up to it, Fort William is home the UK’s highest peak, Ben Nevis. At 4412ft, the views from Ben Nevis will give you one final Scottish panorama to end your trip.

The Routeburn Track, New Zealand

If mountains, lakes and challenging ascents are what you look for as a backpacker, then look no further than New Zealand.

Passing through two national parks, the Routeburn Track is an absolute must-see for an alpine adventure. This 20-mile route is best taken over three days with either two overnight stays in one of the many surrounding huts or camping.

Starting at Routeburn Shelter and ending at The Divide, the northern side of Lake Wakatipu, this route is jam-packed with gorgeous scenery. Since the national parks are teamed up with various wildlife trusts, the route is teeming with nature. So, make sure to pack your binoculars to catch a glimpse of some rare birds!

The John Muir, California

A true American expedition, the John Muir Trail typically starts at Yosemite Valley and ends at the summit of Mount Whitney.

Prepare for an epic hike filled with babbling brooks, granite slopes and towering pine trees. The trek takes you through three national parks: Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. While this unspoiled American wilderness experience isn’t to be missed, it certainly requires an experienced backpacker, so add this one to your future goals list!

The Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy, and Switzerland

While a few of the other routes on this list have passed through more than one national park, how about one that passes through three countries?

The Tour du Mont Blanc circles around Mount Blanc itself which just so happens to offer a round trip through France, Italy and Switzerland – what more could you want!

The route is more than 170 kilometres of Alpine good-ness including snowy peaks, wild meadows and a few chalet villages in between. While you’ll definitely be sleeping in huts along the route, there are opportunities for you to get a taste of the local culture and food in the passing towns, which is quite unique for a backpacking route.

Hiking is such a rewarding hobby that literally anyone can start. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, hopefully, these few routes have given you some inspiration for your next backpacking holiday.