Tanzania - House Of Coco Magazine

France November 16, 2020

Five of the World’s Most Glamorous Destinations

When it comes to taking a glamorous holiday, there’s a certain group of destinations that simply scream “luxury”. Whether they’re world-renowned for their exceptional culture, cuisine or fashion, each of these cities is the ultimate dream destination.

While 2020 has been all about the ‘StayKation’ – discovering the gems that are available in our nation’s great cities – the focus for 2021 will undoubtedly switch to holidays that are more far-flung. If you’re planning to indulge yourself in 2021 with a trip to somewhere glamourous, you could do a lot worse than to book your holiday in one of the following five designations.

Monaco

Situated on the glorious French Riviera, Monaco is an alluring mix of opulence, high glamour, and classic French charm. A favourite destination with the world’s elite, it may be the world’s second-smallest ‘country’ – Monaco is actually a sovereign city-state – but it’s one of the world’s wealthiest.

The exquisite Casino de Monte-Carlo in Monaco is the ultimate symbol of wealth and luxury. This gorgeous building doesn’t just house the famous gaming rooms, it’s also the home of the Opera de Monte Carlo and the offices of Les Ballets de Monte Carlo. The Casino itself is famous for transforming the fate of the principality in the late 19th century, saving it from bankruptcy due to the sheer popularity of historical games like roulette – which is still played to this day in the casino, following the original European Roulette format.

Abu Dhabi

The capital city – and style capital – of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is the refined older cousin of Dubai and a go-to vacation destination for the jet-set. Calm and sophisticated, the atmosphere in Abu Dhabi is like nowhere else on earth – spectacular holy buildings like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque rub shoulders with the most modern of cultural institutions, while public spaces and blooming gardens are warm and inviting.

The ultimate in desert glamour can be found at The Emirates Palace. This self-described “lavishly imagined dream” is the epitome of first-rate accommodation. Its 394 different rooms and suites regularly house the biggest names in both entertainment and business, offering a level of opulence that can only be described as “presidential”.

Saint-Tropez

The second French Riviera destination on our list, Saint-Tropez, epitomises the luxurious vibrancy of the Riviera lifestyle. The destination of choice with glamorous film stars since Hollywood’s Golden Age, Saint-Tropez is equally exciting and romantic, with its intriguing mix of modern luxury and historical culture. Famously captured in And God Created Woman, A-Listers have been floating into the town by the yachtful for decades.

Vieux Port (Old Port) and La Ponche (Old Town) are colourful and captivating, but it’s the beaches that are the biggest draw of Saint-Tropez. The private beach clubs along the Pampelonne are exclusive to members only, but you can still get a taste of Riviera life by lounging on the Plage des Canoubiers or the Plage des Salins.

Geneva

The fifth most expensive city in the world to live in, Geneva is unbeatable when it comes to 21st-century sophistication and sheer natural beauty. It’s no wonder global organisations like the United Nations and the Red Cross have chosen this serene lakeside city as their HQs. As well as being a European seat for diplomacy, Geneva is also home to the world’s most exclusive jewellers, including Rolex and Tudor, as well as being an epicentre for banking and finance.

Like much of Switzerland, Geneva is absolutely gorgeous to explore. And while it’s not as loud in its outward displays of wealth as Riviera destinations, nevertheless it’s a popular spot with global travellers for whom prestigious hospitality is a must.

Thanda Island

Nothing quite says exclusivity like a stay on your own private island and Thanda Island is the “world’s best”. Situated just off the east coast of Tanzania, the island was officially opened in 2016, but it has already lured in the world’s super-rich.

A stay here isn’t cheap – starting from $10,000 per night with a minimum three-night stay. For that, however, you’ll get exclusive use of the island, including its impeccable beaches and world-class sports and leisure facilities, as well as private chefs and villa staff to cater to your every need.

France November 9, 2020

Girlbosses of Great Britain : The One with Zoe Glencross

A move from Manchester to the meadows of Cheshire meant a real lifestyle change for Zoe Glencross. Being surrounded by massive skies and wildlife inspired her to create. She has always loved interiors and following her move she seized the opportunity to learn the craft of fabric design and print, combining her love of colour, paint and fabric.

Since then, she has grown an incredible brand and we spent some time with her to find out more…

Tell us the journey that lead you to launching your brand, Zoe Glencross…

My background was retail buying, marketing and sales. I was not trained as a designer – I have a law degree. After a move to the countryside I attended a day fabric design course. I absolutely fell in love with the craft. I began hand printing fabric at the kitchen table and wanted to learn more and develop my skills. I found someone in Manchester to teach me to screen print on a one to one basis. I then bought screens and printing equipment and set up in the garage at home. After selling some individual prints I decided to try to develop a fabric collection for interiors. I had always loved interiors, fabric and paint so this was the perfect way to combine them all. I spent time researching UK textile manufacturing and after finding the right partners to work with produced samples which we photographed (with a friend who is a photographer) then built the website myself. It was a journey of learning so many new skills – a big challenge but I was on a mission! It was so satisfying to launch in June 2015 and it’s been and exciting journey ever since with lots of highs and many challenges!!

All of your products are made in England and this is great, why was that important to you?

Britain is of course where the textiles industry first began and living in the North West England meant that I was lucky enough to be quite close to some of the key remaining textile manufacturers. During the development stage it was important to me to visit them personally in order to find the right manufacturing partner. I was very much struck by the skill and dedication of the folks who work in this industry. I really appreciated how many years of experience and knowledge they had. It was important to have faith in their ability to translate my hand printed designs into higher volume production. I really wanted to support British businesses and be able to easily visit them as the fabric was being produced. It became a no brainer to make here in the UK – I didn’t even consider making overseas. Plus having started my business at my kitchen table it seemed right to build a truly British brand.

Which item is your best seller?

Our natural linens sell really well – in particular our rural inspired prints such as the cowparsley as well as our stripes. Blues are always popular too.

Talk us through an average day in your life…

Well there’s a question! My day begins with a cup of tea in bed where I check my emails and update my list of the day’s priorities – this is my 10 mins of peace during which to wake up and take some time to think about the day ahead. Once I’m up I tend to be dashing about at speed which starts with a school run. I then either try to go for a run or quickly clear up the kitchen before heading into the office. Like many working mums there’s a lot of multi-tasking and juggling going on so you can be emailing someone one minute and putting a wash on the next.

I then might be dealing with customer calls or emails about colour and design advice or talking to the factory about new developments . I might be discussing stock levels and product developments with my colleague Caroline. We are always trying to look at new, better ways of working as well as develop new product and consider new working relationships and opportunities. I’m currently looking ahead to spring, thinking about how I’d like to plan a photoshoot for a new brochure featuring some new designs that we’re soon to launch. No day is the same though – my focus has to change all the time depending on the time of year or what is happening that week.

How often do you release new products and what’s the process behind this?

We try to bring out new colour ways in fabric once or twice a year seasonally but I have new designs in work right now which will add to the collections. Last year we launched our Elements collection as well as a capsule wallpaper collection. This year we added beach bags for the summer and scented candles.

What does self care mean to you?

I’ve learnt that regular exercise – running in particular ( prior to Covid attending group exercise classes), is really important to my well being. When life gets busy and challenging, as it has been this year, this has been vital to how well I feel able to respond to what’s going on. I’ve also learnt that I really need to be around people and close friends. Sometimes running a business like this has been quite lonely but as the business has grown I’ve had more regular connections with people which I really enjoy and thrive on. Designing is an independent, singular process where I need to be alone but everything else about this business is definitely better done with others and as a team.

How has Covid affected your business and have you had to pivot in anyway?

Inevitably whilst stuck at home people were keen to dedicate some time and effort to thinking about their home interior. Lockdown intensified everything so the pace at which we were working became much faster both in terms of handling increased order volumes and dealing with enquires but also bringing customers and our social media followers newness and inspiring creative ideas for their interiors. I felt that we had to do our best to bring people something fresh, new and sometimes entertaining on social media! We loved running weekly remnant sales for our offcuts of fabric that might otherwise be sold as folded small pieces in our showroom. These sales were so popular and it felt good to know that people were getting their sewing machines out to make something unique during lockdown with these pieces.

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

I LOVE to travel and have taken inspiration from my travels both in terms of design and colour. My favourite places are Paris, Palma Tanzania and France. Top of my bucket list is Rio! I’ve always wanted to go to the carnival and join in the dancing!

Find out more...

Follow us on Instagram for all the latest behind the scenes and take a look at our fabric and homewares collections at www.zoeglencross.com

Tanzania October 5, 2020

Women Worldwide : The One with Tai Lite, the Clean Loving Skincare Brand

Tai is the founder and ultimate girl boss behind her brand, Tai-Lite. A skincare based makeup brand that is made for everyone and almost everything! Tai comes from an editorial background so creating vibrant and fun looks was always at the forefront of her work and now that translates in to her brand.

As a black artist, Tai educated herself on the different pigments so that she could tailor to all women and all complexions whilst making sure she was producing the best of the best with only clean ingredients. Her life story is something to be admired and she is really making waves in the beauty world.

We spent some time with Tai to find out more…

Tell us about the story that lead you to launch your brand, Tai Lite…

Throughout my career as a makeup artist, I have always loved to experiment and create fun vibrant looks. As a black artist I found that the beauty industry was limited when it came to products suitable for all complexions. So I dabbled in finding new ways to get the results I wanted. It started off by mixing different products together and using things outside of their intended purpose. I would do things like use eyeshadows as highlighters etc.

As my career grew I started to educate myself on clean beauty and its benefits. I was mindblown when I learned what we having been putting on our faces and bodies and the effects it could have overtime. I take my skin and skincare very seriously so I thought it was only right to extend this to my clients. I started experimenting with different clean ingredients and revisited my hobby of making highlighters, still keeping in mind that I was not only creating something that was good for the skin but suitable for deep to fair skin tones. But this time I wasn’t just mixing products together I was formulating what is now known as our glow pigments. A product that is not only clean and skin-loving but created with the deepest complexions in mind.

Our glow pigments are a multi-purpose product that can be used as a highlighter, blush, eyeshadow, or however you see fit. It is Formulated with 5 skin-loving ingredients that help promote healthy glowing skin, contain antioxidants that help fight free radicals, promote natural healing, and have antimicrobial properties. In addition to our skincare benefits, our pigments are bright, colorful, and versatile.

Creating products that are clean and natural is something your brand stands for, why was this important to you?

Creating products that are clean and natural is important to me because if you going to be using something on a daily basis you want to make sure that it is good for you. I believe that makeup should be benefiting your skin as well as enhancing. That’s why our ingredient list is at the forefront of everything we do. We want you to know exactly what you using and why/how those ingredients promote healthy glowing skin. Tai-Lite truly is an extension of your skincare.

How often do you launch new products and what’s the process behind that?

Being that we launched in December of 2019 we have not launched new products yet, But we do have some exciting new things comin in 2021 that we cant wait to share with all of you!

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

Traveling to Tanzania is at the top of my bucket list. Just seeing photos and talking to my friends who have traveled there before it seems to be so beautiful and freeing. I would like to visit multiple places in Africa but starting there is on my bucket list.

You’re a New Yorker, what’s the best thing about NYC to you?

The best thing about NYC is the ability to do exactly what it is that you love. I am not saying doing it is easy or you won’t have to do other things in the meantime but the city has a certain energy of creative freedom that will lead you to what it is that you want to do. In addition to that its great that I am surrounded by people who are doing the same which creates a community of creatives to lean on and work with.

For any aspiring entrepreneurs wanting to launch a brand in the beauty world, what advice would you offer?

My advice would be to just start wherever you are with whatever you have. Don’t be afraid to learn things as you go and ask questions.

If you are developing your own product I advise you to take your time with the formula, trial and error and research are important.

How have you had to pivot in 2020?

After launching I had planned to get most of my exposure through vending at different markets and events. I had to switch my focus more into e-commerce. So I took a 6-week course on Marketing/social media to educate myself further. I had more time on my hands than ever, at first I was sad that I couldn’t do makeup but I soon saw it as a blessing because I had time to focus and grow my business.

What has this year taught you about yourself?

This year taught me that I am capable of much more then I could’ve imagined

I learned that I can depend and rely on myself for the things that I want out of this life.

I learned that I can actually do it, all of it.

I learned that there is no reason not to chase your dreams every day. And everything your desire is already yours.

Where do you hope to see your brand in ten years’ time?

In 10 years I see Tai-Lite as a global brand. I see Tai-Lite as a one-stop-shop for all things CLEAN skincare, beauty, and body care.

We can’t wait to follow Tai and all of her successes! Check out her site and follow her on Instagram for my fabulous updates!

Italy January 4, 2019

ZANZIBAR… spicy, sandy and oh-so-sensuous

It’s a series of dots on the map, just to the east of Tanzania, this extraordinary archipelago of Zanzibar. Its history is a mixture of murky and magnificent – a great trading post, the spice centre of the known world, a former capital of the Sultanate of Oman and a serious slave exporter. Today it is holiday heaven.

When you read or see pictures of white sand, don’t believe them until your bare feet have walked along a beach in Zanzibar and felt the silkiest sand literally run between your toes. To enjoy, indulge or simply experience this, head to the south-east of Unguya, the largest island in the archipelago, and deposit yourself in the sands that edge Baraza Resort and Spa.

This is a simple example of luxury, designed along the lines of a Swahili village except a thousand times more opulent.The lines are the same, a cluster of houses (villas in this case) around a wide open space. These in turn morph into meeting places, eating and drinking areas, not to mention a huge pool which runs parallel to the beach. Add to that gardens and pathways dripping with bougainvillea, frangipane and spider lilies and overhung with palms. It is paradise personified especially as the only noise is that of birdsong and a gentle murmur from the waves. But that is before the rain.

Panic ye not if the rain arrives, for though it might be fierce and heavy to begin with…it eventually slow down to a gentle shower. It’s warm too and there is something unbelievably sensuous about swimming in warm gentle rain. And when it’s gone the sand is magically dry, soft and silky almost immediately. Of course when the sun is out we do what we all do best…worship it…either from the pool, the sea, the shade or from even under the sea. Baraza is a gift for divers having the only National Geographic accredited dive centre in East Africa, as well as a five star PADI version. The reefs, and they are numerous, are some of the finest along the coast, but should you wish to remain on top of the water there is sailing, snorkelling and for the adventurous, kite surfing.In betweeners can snorkel to their hearts content, while the idle and the sybarites, when lazing becomes too much, can head to the Frangipani Spa for more lying down, this time laced with pampering.

The Spa has its own building another vast and spacious Swahili inspired mini-palace built around a courtyard with its own swimming pool, complete with underwater music. The relaxation area is like no other you have experienced – a vast spread of day beds, huge cushions exotic rugs and silken hangings, so it only seems right and proper that this where you rest before and after the rigours of a Sultan’s Bath, the spa’s signature treatment.This combo of body scrub, bath, massage and near anointment with local spice essential oils, will ease every ache, pain or stiffness that may be left over from a long plane journey or the simple exigencies of daily life.

Seductive though life at Baraza may be, it would be almost criminal not to leave it, even for a few hours to see a little more of this island, and any number of outings are offered to tempt – from dhow cruises along the coast, a trip to the local village, Bwejuu, to visit the school and library (both supported by the Resort), an outing to a spice plantation where cloves, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg are grown or best of all spend a day in Stone Town, the island’s capital.

Now a Unesco World Heritage Site, Stone Town is a living history lesson. A maze of tiny alleyways, broken arches, winding streets, grand mansions, mosques and falling down palaces, it is a busy port, a tourist centre and a place of pilgrimage for devotees of David Livingstone (who set out to explore the rest of Africa from here)and fans of Freddie Mercury (who set out to seduce half the world from here). You’ll definitely need a guide, although it is easy to find the latter’s house, simply from the crowds heading in that direction, but it is better to have someone who knows the winding streets and the shortcuts between markets and mosques, restaurants and cafes to lead you. And before you leave, visit the cathedral which is built over the old slave market and houses the original whipping post. Spend time in the Slavery Museum which documents the trade and finally visit the slave chambers, two tiny rooms where they were kept before being sold. Take time to reflect and even weep.

After such an outing the white sands and the blue seas not to mention the luxuriant gardens of Baraza offer solace, sweetness and joy.

www.baraza-zanzibar.com

What you seriously need to know:

There is no direct flight to Zanzibar so whichever way you choose means breaking your journey which can, of course, play havoc with your body clock.

We flew Kenya Airways (www.kenya-airways.com) to Nairobi which takes approx. eight and a half hours and then another flight onto Zanzibar which is just under two hours – but there is at least another two hours on the ground in between flights, which makes the journey not only tiresome but tiring…however NOT if you equip yourself with some Jet Candy, one of travel’s best kept secrets for some time.

Kenya is a popular transit destination for travelers flying to other African countries, such as Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. Passengers who are transiting through Kenya for less than 72 hours and do not require a visa may remain in the airport’s transit area. However, those who need to leave the airport during their transit must obtain a Kenya transit visa upon arrival.

Jet Candy, an all-natural, homeopathic jet lag remedy, has been around for a while but known only to the lucky few; however, now it is available to all online to help cope with the exigencies some of us encounter with long-haul travel.It can help make jet lag a thing of the past. The ingredients quietly ensure your body adjusts without you worrying about a thing. It keeps circulation in check, helps you monitor hydration, while any anxiety is dispelled pre-flight and in-flight, and most importantly, your circadian rhythms don’t play havoc on your mind and body. Buy from www.jet-candy.com.

Words by Jo Foley

Finland April 14, 2018

6 Concept Hotels to Visit at Least Once

Here at House of Coco, there is a never shortage of new places to discover. We round up the best concept hotels in the world; from the Arctic Circle to the caves of Capadoccia. These amazing concept hotels are a must in any traveller’s bucket list – and are all definitely Team Coco approved.

IceHotel, Jukkasjärvi Sweden

Just 200 kilometres north of the Artic Circle, sits the Icehotel – a marvel of both architectural design and natural splendour. The first hotel of its kind, The Icehotel undergoes a metamorphosis every year, with its rooms and being built over the winter and melting away with the coming of spring. The Torne River supplies enough ice (about 4000 tons of ice every ten-seconds), for the Icehotel to rebuild itself every winter. Artists, architects, industrial engineers, and graphic designers from all over the world come to the small village of Jukkasjärvi to take part in the process.

If you are planning to visit the Icehotel in spring don’t fret – The hotel also offers a year round experience with Icehotel365 – all thanks to its solar panels. Icehotel365 is a sprawling 2100 square metre space that houses nine deluxe suites, eleven art suites, a private sauna, and an ice bar — maintained at a constant negative five degrees celsius. In collaboration with Hans Eek, Swedish architect and sustainability designer, Icehotel365 runs from the solar power gained from the midnight sun; thus combining state of the art architecture with a minimal carbon foot print. A unique and sustainable concept that Team Coco can definitely get behind.

Baraza Resort & Spa, The Zanzibar Collection

There are not a lot of destinations in the world that beget the same magic and mystery as Zanzibar. In this idyllic island paradise, the Zanzibar Collection’s selection of luxury five star properties undeniably make for the ultimate island getaway.

On the South Eastern coast of the exotic island, the Baraza Resort & Spa is carefully designed to reflect he island’s stunning natural beauty with the history and culture of the Omani Arabs who inhabited this tropical paradise. The resort boasts thirty luxury villas, each one evoking the magical era of sultans; and filled with exquisite luxury amenities. They also offers a gorgeous Yoga in Paradise concept that combines the benefits of Yoga with an array of island activities including; scuba diving, Swahili cooking lessons, swimming with dolphins, and spa treatments at the world-renowned Frangipani Spa. The Baraza Resort & Spa is definitely on top of our list for a rejuvenating retreat in one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

Hotel Heureka, Venice Italy

The recently opened Hotel Heureka is a gorgeous new design hotel concept in Venice, combining grandeur and history. The property dates back to the 16th century, and the renovation has taken into account all the possible modern luxuries any discerning traveller would desire. If you’ve ever wondered what it was like to live the life of Venetian nobility, then the Hotel Heureka has the perfect atmosphere for you.

Located in the vibrant north western Sestiere of Cannaregio, (it’s the Notting Hill of Venice) the Hotel Heureka lets you experience the decadence of a traditional Venetian palazzo, with its gorgeous Italian mosaics and vaulted ceilings. The hotel overlooks the Madonna dell’Orto canal, and an elegant stone balustrade decorates its classic façade. Built around the layout of a “portego” which is a typical Venetian passage, the Hotel Heureka masterfully maintains the unique dictates of traditional Venetian architecture; and within its classical walls, a twist of contemporary design plays out. With ten beautiful rooms, each one distinct in character with Rubelli silks at the windows, Lacroix tapestries as bedheads, and the most sensational bathrooms, you can be sure that a stay here will be unique. Rather like the art in the house, by Julian Kohl. So, if you ever find yourself in Venice, call in for a fresh Spritz in the private garden; it’s the best place to immerse yourself in the grandiose spirit of this magical city.

Museum Hotel, Capadoccia Turkey

The Museum Hotel sits in a very special region in Cappadocia, and is undeniably one of the most extraordinary hotels in the world. Built within the picturesque stone cliffs of the Tekeli District, the Museum Hotel is a combination of thousand year old historical ruins, natural caves, and stone houses — all impeccably restored for the modern age.

No two rooms in the Museum Hotel are the same. Each of the hotel’s thirty rooms are built from natural yellow stone, and filled with priceless antiquities from the Ottoman, Seljuk, Roman, and Hittite periods. Surrounded by all this history, it is no wonder that the Museum’s Hotel “living museum” concept lives up to its name, with the hotel being the only Relais & Chateaux accredited property in the whole of Turkey. Not to mention, each room boasts panoramic views of the inimitable Capdoccian landscape; where you can see Mt.Ecriyes, the Red Valley, and Love Valley from the distance. Definitely Team Coco approved.

Levin Iglut-Golden Crown, Finland

Theres are very few natural wonders as mesmerising as the Northern lights; and at the Levin Glut-Golden Crown, not only do you get the best view of this rare and beautiful sight, you also get the best glass igloo experience that the Finnish Lapland has to offer.

The family operated Levin Iglut Golden crown is located at a dizzying 340 metres above sea level, at the very top of the Levi Fell and with picturesque views of the Fell Landscape. Their twenty-four glass igloos are roofed over with heated glass and are fully equipped with luxury amenities. If you are travelling in a bigger group, then the Northern Lights House, which features two large double bedrooms, a private sauna and jacuzzi, and a panoramic window for Northern lights viewing — is perfect for you. It seems that every aspect of the Levin Iglut takes advantage of its gorgeous natural surroundings. The hotel’s restaurant, Aurora Sky, allows guests to enjoy locally sourced Scandinavian flavours with an unobstructed view of the spectacular icy landscapes below.

Niyama Private Islands, Maldives

Team Coco loves an island getaway, but the Niyama Private Islands disrupts the luxury island concept over its head with its unparalleled set of culinary experiences. Ever wondered what it was like to have a gourmet meal at the bottom of the sea? Niyama Private Island shows you how.

Set across two private islands connected by a single wooden bridge that traverses the Indian Ocean, this special Maldivian resort in the South-Western atoll of Dhaalu takes barefoot luxury to the next level. The twin islands are appropriately named Play and Chill – each one with their own distinctive feel and exclusive dining experiences. It is an understatement to say that the culinary concepts on offer at Niyama Private Islands are some of the most unique in the world. Tribal is the only African restaurant in the Maldives, while Edge is the hotel’s floating fine dining restaurant set 1 km out at sea. Nest is an Asian fusion restaurant set high above in the tree tops that offers a gravity defying dining experience like no other. On the other end of the spectrum is Subsix – an underwater restaurant that allows Niyama Private Island’s guests to eat at the bottom of the Indian ocean. Niyama Private Islands not only allows guests to experience the paradisiacal surroundings of the Maldives, but also invites them toe expand their culinary boundaries, and should definitely be on any food-lovers bucket list.

Botswana February 5, 2018

9 of the best places to take a luxury eco-friendly break

#CocoTravel – Whether you wish a cosy staycation or aspire to venture a little further afield, a trip away to while away the winter blues is just the thing to refresh and revitalise before the long-awaited new season arrives. We all love a luxury break away, but travellers are being more mindful about their green credentials are looking to stay in luxurious but sustainable accommodations. Who says luxury and sustainability must be mutually exclusive? You can have an eco-friendly break without sacrificing the finer things in life.

We round up the best eco-friendly luxury breaks to take in 2018:

Lapa Rios, Costa Rica

Lapa Rios is a 930-acre private nature reserve located at the southern-most tip of the Osa Peninsula. It was the first ecolodge to gain the coveted 5 Leaf Rating of Costa Rica’s Sustainable Tourism Certification scheme. Stay in one of the luxurious 17 private bungalows which have all been designed in harmony with the surrounding forest and beaches. They have been built with locally harvested materials and are open-air with screens that allow you to experience the sounds, sights and smells of the rainforest and the ocean.

Guests can take a secluded shower on their outside deck which is open to the sights and sounds of the rainforest and can enjoy the beautiful panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from your bed!

Zarafa Camp, Botswana

Zarafa Camp in Botswana’s Selinda Reserve is one of the ‘greenest’ safari camps on the planet. It is an intimate space with just four spacious, lavishly-appointed tents and a private villa, The Dhow Suites. Only recycled hardwoods and canvas were used in the construction and all the camp’s electricity comes from its solar farm, while “bio gas” plants recycle waste into usable cooking gas. Zafara Camp in Botswana’s Selinda Reserve comes highly recommended by James on Safari.

Drinking water is treated through a UV filtration system to eliminate the use of disposable plastic water bottles.

Hix Island House, Puerto Rico

Located on the Spanish Virgin Island of Vieques, just off the southeast corner of mainland Puerto Rico, Hix Island House is an ideal place to ‘get away from it all’. The property has a ‘direct connection with climate and nature’. It has become renowned for its environmentally friendly practices; it uses solar panels to power both their electricity and hot water and they also use recycled water from the guests’ showers and basins to feed the guavas, bananas and papayas growing nearby.

LeFay Resort, Italy

If you’re seeking sheer indulgence, a secluded and peaceful environment and a holistic approach to your holiday you should look no further than the Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda. Situated in a 27-acre nature reserve, surrounded by olive groves and overlooking Lake Garda, this award-winning eco-spa, is dedicated to protecting the environment and is also fully carbon neutral. Take a relaxing dip in the innovatively-designed spa which is home to saunas, grottos and indoor and outdoor pools, including a saltwater pool and an infinity pool overlooking the lake.

Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia

Want to truly get away from it all? Song Saa Private Island is Cambodia’s first luxury private island resort and nestles in the warm sapphire waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Conservation is a key priority for Song Saa, they proactively work to improve local livelihoods as well as preserving marine life and rainforests.

This is an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway safe in the knowledge that where they are staying are mindful of their impact on the environment. Experience the ultimate in eco-luxury escapes where all the villas have an ocean view, a private pool and have an effortlessly cool design with four-poster beds, Moroccan lanterns and carved statues which add flair to each eco-chic space.

White Pod Eco Resort, Switzerland

Situated in the stunning Swiss Alps, the Whitepod Eco Resort offers the ultimate alpine experience, where you can sleep in the most adorable pod. Choose from either the futuristic glamorous 007 pod which comes with your very own ‘Bond Girl’ bed, champagne bar and private sauna.

If you are looking for a more rustic aesthetic, the Forest Pod Suite brings the outside in and in the most luxurious way. Sleep in a cosy king size “nest bed” or opt to swing out in your very own hammock. This clever little pod also comes with its own sauna.

White Pod’s philosophy is very much about saving the environment whilst getting away from it all. The pods are minimal impact which means that they utilise minimal water and electricity and only use renewable resources wherever they can.

Green House Hotel, Bournemouth

Bournemouth is one of the UK’s most popular destinations and it is easy to see why! It is also home to the ‘Best Green Hotel in the UK 2017.’ The Green House Hotel is situated close to Bournemouth’s award-winning beaches and is ideal for a simple yet luxurious staycation. Think glam but green!

The hotel’s restaurant ‘Arbor’ has an oak sculpture reconstructed as a tree and the furniture is made from sustainable materials such as felled trees, even the Victorian roll-top baths are all reclaimed and even the paint and wallpaper are eco-friendly.

In keeping with their environmentally friendly ethos, each of the 22 rooms are named after trees and the eco-beds have been especially designed for the hotel after two years’ worth of research and development.

Campi ya Kanzi, Kenya

Campi ya Kanzi (Camp of the Hidden Treasure) is an award-winning, boutique eco-lodge in Kenya that sets a new standard for the experience of true luxury that is also truly ecologically low-impact. It demonstrates that you can have the comfort and service of a top hotel, the fine dining of an Italian palazzo without compromising on your green credentials.

Not only can you enjoy a luxury break, but you will be helping to support a meaningful conservation project. Campi ya Kanzi was built using only local materials that had fallen from trees naturally and their water is sourced from the rain using their special catchment system.

Chumbe Island Coral Park, Tanzania

If you love snorkelling and the underwater world, you can’t experience a more beautiful coral reef than at the world’s first private Marine Protected Area.

Chumbe Island Coral Park is a small island off the coast of Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa. The first privately established and managed Marine Protected Area in the world, and the only one fully-funded through ecotourism.

The resort has zero ecological impact and there is a maximum of 14 guests that can stay on the island. Choose from just one of seven beautifully designed ‘bandas’ which are sustainable bungalows which are idyllically set in the protected forest and are just 30 seconds to the beach where you can enjoy out-of-the world snorkelling.

Guests can dine in the former lighthouse keeper’s home which has been restored and remodelled into a giant-clam-shaped restaurant bungalow where they can enjoy typical Zanzibarian cuisine which is a delicious blend of Asian, Arabic, African and European traditions, made from local produce to minimise waste.

Cuba January 11, 2018

Designer Spotlight : Ozoza Lifestyle

Ozoza Lifestyle, means Beautiful Lifestyle. The word “Ozoza” means beautiful in the Ebira language of Nigeria. The founders of Ozoza are Africans who wish to share the beautiful elements of African heritage with the rest of the world.

Here, we chat to the founders to find out more…

When did you launch the brand and what was the reason behind it?
We officially launched the brand in June 2017. Ozoza Lifestyle means Beautiful Lifestyle. The word “Ozoza” means beautiful in the Ebira language. Ozoza Lifestyle seeks to bring the alluring spirit of Africa to the world. Our contemporary collection of African home accessories, fashion accessories and artefacts reflect the Ozoza philosophy to preserve the traditional craftsmanship, skills and techniques from across the African continent. We felt that there are so many African stories to tell that haven’t been heard. We seek to do this through our products.

What’s your background?
I grew up travelling and living in various countries due to my father’s profession in the Foreign Service. I loved and still love travelling and learning about various cultures. I am a lawyer by profession and trained and worked in the City of London for many years with Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer and Norton Rose Fulbright. Throughout my life, I have always been involved in and am still involved in developmental projects and the Creative Arts. Ozoza Lifestyle has enabled me to combine the two by working with artisans at a grass root level.

What is the hardest challenge you have faced since starting the Company?
Learning when to switch off. It’s still a work in progress. Slow progress.

Tell us one fact about you that people wouldn’t know
For about a year, I lived in a hut in the Rio Dulce region of the Guatemalan rainforest, whilst working for an NGO running a literacy program for Mayan Indian girls. It’s been one of the best years of my life so far. The work was immensely rewarding and the team was amazing.

2018 is here, where do you plan on taking the brand?
We are working very hard with our partners to make the Ozoza Lifestyle brand reach the international market, showing to the world the beauty and authenticity of Africa.

To date, what has been the highlight since launching?
So much happened since June, every little step is a step closer to where we want Ozoza Lifestyle to be. In October we launched at the British Museum in London, receiving outstanding feedback. With the support of the BBC journalist Asad Ahmad and Lord Poltimore of Sotheby’s auctioned various items from a beautiful selection of Ozoza Fashion, Lifestyle & Home Accessories for charity.

Which city do you feel most at home in, London, Paris or New York?
I love all three cities actually, but the city I have spent the most time in and feel most at home in is definitely London.

Style means….?
An authentic expression of oneself.

Best thing about London to you?
Its cosmopolitan nature

Statement Shoe or Statement Bag?
Statement Glasses

Favourite love song?
The love theme composed by Ennio Morricone for the film Cinema Paradiso. Incredibly moving piece.

Most memorable piece of advice given to you?
Focus on the positive and seize the day.

Guilty pleasure?
Dark chocolate with almonds. No guilt though.

If you could spent 24 hours in anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Deep-Sea diving off the coast of Zanzibar, then watching the sun set from the rooftops of Stone Town. It’s simply a magical place. Outside Africa, it would have to be Havana, Cuba because of its African spirit. I spent many years of my childhood there and loved the warmth and openness of the people as well as the sheer beauty of the place.

Find out more…

Website: www.ozozalifestyle.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ozozalifestyle

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ozozalifestyle

Twitter: www.twitter.com/ozozalifestyle

Snapchat: ozozalifestyle