Just a one hour and thirty minute train journey away from Paddington is the lovely Hotel du Vin Cheltenham; a glorious home-from-home in the beautiful regency era town of Cheltenham.
Pat of the Hotel du Vin Group and Fraser’s Hospitality, Hotel du Vin Cheltenham occupies a beautiful building in Cheltenham’s chic Montpellier district. Picture handsome Regency-era mansions, and tree-lined crescents that look like they could’ve been lifted off the set of Bridgerton.
There are 49 individually designed bedrooms and suites, which have undergone a recent (and extensive) refurb to capture the rustic allure of country living, while still celebrating the English Heritage style of the Hotel du Vin collection.
This fabulously dog-friendly hotel is centred around a sprawling bar and restaurant and of course – an impressive wine cellar. (After all – a Hotel du Vin would not be complete without a healthy array of vintages that would impress even the most discerning wine connoisseur).
We stayed in the sprawling De Trafford Suite, which is as impressive as it sounds. Occupying the square footage of what seems like an entire London terraced house; the suite features vibrant decoupage wallcoverings with English antique prints that are equal parts eclectic, joyful and timeless.
A rich tapestry inspired by Mulberry Home’s flying ducks’ prints, inspire colour scheme of the room, which blends duck egg blue with sage green and bright orange accents. There is of course, a large king sized bed complete with headboard by Colefax and Fowler, a meticulously preserved wooden mantlepiece; and a newly refurbished bathroom with tiles form Solus ceramics.
There are plenty of creature comforts too. Handsprung mattresses, fine Egyptian linens, plasma TVs and a handsome rolltop bath, which is a thing of beauty and the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring.
There is also a completely separate seating area; perfect for getting lost in a good book or film. For Charlie, we were greeted with a comfy dog bed, dog bowls and doggy care package complete with snacks and tennis ball (his favourite). So – he truly did feel like four-legged VIP from the moment we check in.
Not every space is dog friendly though, which is worth noting. But even if the main Bistro du Vin restaurant isn’t dog friendly per se, pet travellers can enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel du Vin Cheltenham upstairs in one of two lounge areas or at the bar.
Guests who are staying in one of Hotel du Vin’s inclusive packages can enjoy three course meals as part of their stay. Certain dishes though like the steaks, scallops and beef bourguignonne come with added supplements, but with most dishes priced below £20 – the entire menu Bistro du Vin’s menu is fabulously affordable.
Beyond the Hotel du Vin, Cheltenham has plenty to explore for pet friendly travellers. There are plenty of charming cafes and restaurants, and glorious parks that are within walking distance from the hotel – perfect for a day out in the sun with your pup. A lot of the cute boutiques, complete with stylish knick knacks, are pet friendly too. There are also a few noteworthy National Heritage Houses and the always enjoyable Cotswolds Wildlife Park which are within a short drive away.
Overall, if you’re looking for an idyllic slow weekend getaway with your four-legged pooch, look no further than the Hotel du Vin. Excellent service, luxurious rooms and a delectable menu of food and wine, Hotel du Vin is a veritable home away from home in the heart of Cheltenham and we shall surely be returning.
If you’ve ever found yourself frantically stuffing clothes into your holiday suitcase at the last minute or agonising over whether you’ve forgotten something essential, you might be suffering from Travel Packing Stress Disorder or TPSD. As someone who used to loath packing (not great when you write for a travel magazine), I regularly overpacked yet still managed to forget something. However, with a bit of forward planning and some nifty accessories I have said ‘Adios’ to TPSD and ‘Bonjour’ to stress free packing. Here’s my top eight tips to make packing for your travels a breeze.
Start with a Packing List
The key to avoiding TPSD is proper planning, and a packing list is your best friend. Before you even think about touching your suitcase, sit down and make a list of everything you’ll need for your trip. From clothing and toiletries to travel documents and electronics, jot down everything you’ll need to bring with you.
Research your Destination
I once packed four pairs of heels for a trip to the Maldives to only get there and not wear a single pair. If I’d done my research, I’d have realised the vibe was bare foot luxury so no heels necessary. To avoid this, do your homework. Look at the hotel website and socials to get a feel for the dress code. Some of the restaurants might require a collared shirt or have a no beachwear policy. Also check out the weather forecast, this will help you when it comes to selecting outfits.
Pack Outfits
One thing that has helped my TPSD is packing versatile staples for during the day that can be dressed up and down. Trying to lay out outfits for each evening, dresses and jumpsuits are good options as they take up less room in your case. Remember, you don’t need to pack your entire wardrobe – stick to the essentials and mix and match clothing items to create different outfits.
Use Packing Cubes
I recently discovered packing cubes and have never looked back, they are a game-changer when it comes to staying organised while traveling. These handy little pouches allow you to compartmentalise your belongings, making it easy to separate clean clothes from dirty ones and keep everything neatly organised. Plus, they help compress your clothes, saving even more space in your suitcase.
Streamline Toiletries
Toiletries can be heavy and take up a lot of your luggage allowance so decant your favourite products into travel bottles and get a smart storge holder. I love the Briggs and Riley Essentials toiletry case, It is translucent so I can pinpoint my essentials and is large enough to hold all of my make-up, bottles and hairbrush in. The design is sleek, durable and can easily be wiped down if you have any leaks and easily fits into a suitcase or tote.
Opt for ‘Smart Luggage’
I once found the coolest tiles while on holiday in Lisbon, I knew they’d be perfect for my reclaimed fireplace but getting them in the case was a struggle. If like me, you love to pick up some local souvenirs and goodies you will need to leave space in your case or invest in ‘smart luggage.’ The best investment I have made was in the Briggs and Riley carry-on case with CX® Technology. This stylish suitcase gives you the ability to jam-pack your bag with everything you need (and want, and then some). But thanks to the incredible patented compression-expansion system, not only can you expand your bag up to 22 percent, but then you can compress it back down to carry-on size.
Don’t Forget Gadgets and Electronics
There’s nothing worse than arriving at your destination only to realise you’ve forgotten an adaptor or phone charger. I invested in a multi-charger cable that means I can use it to charge my phone, Kindle and speaker without the hassle of packing lots of leads. You can also get similar adaptors that are multi-use destinations all in one cube. For long-haul travel I always keep my adaptor and charger cable in my hand luggage, so I don’t arrive at my destination with no juice in my phone.
Use a Jewellery Case
Keep all your bling in one stylish case with the Caroline WOLF jewellery portfolio. Available in ivory, red or black this soft leather quilted wallet with gold hardware includes 13 earring holes, one ring roll, two compartments and four necklace holders with pocket. It also uses LusterLoc™ fabric lining inside the case to absorb the hostile gases known to cause tarnishing. I love it because I can take all my favourite accessories on holiday without the worry of losing it or anything getting damaged.
If you haven’t heard of renowned Colombian chef, Juan Manuel Barrientos, you will very soon. He is affectionately known as ‘Juanma’ by locals and at the very young age of 40 is already the founder of a hospitality group that includes restaurants and hotel across the Americas. He was named one of the 50 best chefs in Latin America and there is no doubt you will see his empire extending into Europe in the not-too-distant future.
His original restaurant is based in Medellín. It is now situated inside his boutique El Cielo Hotel. You can appreciate his popularity with a visit to his fabulously inventive restaurant there. With an open kitchen, you can see all the staff in action. They are all dressed in white lab coats with hair nets and meticulously beavering away at their workstations. You can be excused for thinking you’ve walked into the world of Willy Wonka and his chocolate factory.
Their tasting menu includes more than 15 courses or ‘moments’ as they like to call them in the restaurant. They like to create a sense of mystery with their menu. If you look online, you’ll find a long list of mostly single words, which don’t describe the ingredients of the dish. They are in fact, different regions of Colombia and your gastronomic journey at El Cielo is a whirlwind tour of the different regions of the country. What is important to note is this tasting menu is only available at the Medellín branch. If you visit their Michelin-starred restaurants in Miami or Washington DC, only some of the highlights might be on their menu.
The moments are designed to stimulate your senses. The restaurant is well-known for its choco-therapy, so for one course, you’ll be crushing a chocolate truffle ball with your hands. Then you will be enjoying the delights without the use of cutlery. It will bring back innocent childhood memories when dining was less rigid and formal.
This is also the case for another course, where diners are offered edible balloons with helium inside. That is the cue for a chorus of Donald Duck voices reverberating around the restaurant. What makes their concept so successful is they take the seriousness out of fine dining and with every course, they bring a heartfelt smile to everyone’s faces.
Although not advertised on their website, they do cater for dietary requirements. They can readily prep for a vegetarian version of the tasting menu. For example, when they present locally cured charcuterie, they can offer smoked peppers instead.
Dishes are nevertheless always exquisitely presented. The “tree of life” is a case in point, it’s a crunchy canopy of yucca bread presented in a tree trunk structure that made it resemble a bonsai tree.
You might have thought the “tree of life” would represent the Amazonas course. Instead, it is the fish course that contained arapaima. It is the largest freshwater fish in the world and is found in the Amazon River. The dish is presented with burning charcoal and you do wonder whether it is intentional to represent the long-suffering rainforest. The Arapaima has a rather firm texture reminiscent of cod. Another seafood course is the Cartagena-inspired sausage course that is made with crab meat and white fish.
If you are a meat lover, your main course will be paradise. It’s a confit duck served with a peach sauce along with a duck reduction sauce. It’s a surprise you see a lot of menus offering duck and orange but rarely see duck and peach paired together.
The meal is also interactive. For one of the dessert courses, you are a paleontologist looking for an ammonite, as you brush away the edible powder to reveal your dessert. History is never far away from your experience. With the petit fours, it is presented alongside a replica of the Muisca raft, which is the most famous artefact from the Gold Museum in Bogota.
Coffee is an integral part of the Colombian dining experience. The cafetal course includes the use of liquid nitrogen before your coffee is served to resemble the misty conditions of the coffee-growing regions of Colombia.
Throughout the meal, the kitchen excels in showing its mastery of molecular gastronomy. The full experience generally takes at least 3 hours, so make sure you plan either a full afternoon or evening for your meal. ‘El Cielo’ means heaven in Spanish and you will be in gastronomic heaven by the end of your meal.
For more information on the restaurant, please visit –
If you follow travel content creators on social media, there is a very high chance you would have seen the unique town of Guatapé in Colombia. The Rock of Guatapé with the iconic zig-zagging staircase features prominently on the likes of Instagram and TikTok. Surprisingly, the monolithic rock is a natural formation. It takes a short 15-20 minutes to ascend the rock, and climbing the 740 steps to reach the summit will offer a great cardiovascular workout. The panoramic 360º views of Guatape Lake and the El Peñón region as you reach the pinnacle are worth the endeavour.
The town itself is filled with ‘zocalos’, which are vibrant, colourful murals that surround the cobbled streets of Guatapé. The paintings often depict local life or concealed messages about local beliefs and products. This is one town where you want to ensure you have enough storage on your camera phones to ensure you capture countless photo opportunities.
If you want to know where to stay in Guatapé, I would highly recommend booking a glamping experience with Bosko. This is glamping with a capital G. Their ‘tents’, the Mush.Rooms are geodesic structures that resemble globe lanterns in the nighttime.Their concierge service is on par with any 5-star hotel in the country. They can arrange a private transfer for you from José María Córdova International Airport in Medellín. It’s an approximate 2-hour drive through some of the most scenic parts of the country.
On arrival, you are offered a detoxifying welcome drink immediately and this is followed by a coffee exfoliation ritual to cleanse your hands. Unsurprisingly, Colombians are fervent coffee connoisseurs and don’t just use it for drinking but in all aspects of their lives. Next, you are led to your Mush.Rooms, which are scattered throughout the property and provide maximum privacy. The pathways are relatively narrow but thankfully their staff team will assist with luggage transfer. There are three types of accommodation: deluxe, golden and presidential.
If you want a bucket-list experience, I would strongly suggest booking for the presidential Mush.Room. It is surprisingly affordable if you are comparing it to other presidential suites at 5-star hotels. The pièce de résistance is getting your private thermal pool with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding forest and lake. If you enjoy taking selfies, you will be in seventh heaven. Even if you are camera-shy, this is sheer paradise.
The Mush.Room also offers high-speed WiFi, internal heating including an electric blanket on your bed and a fully-stocked minibar including exquisite wines. The dark wood interior is smartly designed and resembles a showroom in a high-end interior design store rather than a camping site in a rainforest. They offer an open-sky shower with luxury amenities from L’Occitane.
For those staying in the other Mush.Rooms, they do have a general sky pool for you to relax and enjoy the surrounding scenery. They helpfully have signs posted throughout the grounds which highlight the animals you might encounter such as the great trush or the sparkling violet ear. There is also a QR code for you to hear what the birds sound like.
Dining at Bosko is a hidden gem, which you won’t read much about even on their website. Breakfast is cooked to order and delivered to your tent at no extra charge. It is delivered in one of those luxurious hampers which you suspect might be floatable in your thermal pool. You can opt for traditional options like sunny-side-up eggs on toast or Colombian specialties like freshly baked arepas with Colombian-style red beans. Naturally, Colombian coffee is served along with an exotic fruit platter selection.
If you don’t feel like heading into town, their restaurant is a superb option for lunch and dinner. They have an eclectic selection that caters for all tastes. Typically, they offer western dishes with a hint of Colombian flavour such as pork tenderloin served with mashed potatoes and a sweet and sour coffee sauce. The dishes are all exquisitely presented and wouldn’t look out of place in a 5-star hotel. For vegetarians, they have stronger options in the starters and finger food section such as empanadas with homemade aji sauce. and creamy sweet corn with cheese and tajin. In your travels in Colombia, you are more than likely to come across their love of cheese. They even enjoy hot chocolate with cheese.
If you want to offset some calories post-meal, they have kayaks and paddle boards for hire free of charge by the lakeside. The vast Peñol-Guatapé Reservoir is a man-made phenomenon rather than a natural lake. It was built in the 1980s as part of a hydroelectric project that powers up to 30% of the electricity supply of Colombia. You can paddle to your heart’s content as long as you return by 17:00, which is when the lake closes for water-sporting activities.
If you prefer the luxury James Bond-style experience instead, you can book a private speedboat tour instead and see more of the lake area. Your guide will show you the famous houses owned by the likes of footballers from the Colombian national team and Pablo Escobar’s former mansion. If you are lucky, you might be allowed to drive the boat at some point during your trip.
Whether you are a nature lover, a thrill-seeker or just want a tranquil wellness break, there is something to offer for everyone in the magical town of Guatapé.
It’s no wonder why Cartagena de Indias captivates locals and tourists alike. This medieval walled city on the Caribbean coast boasts charm, culture, vitality, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Explore its narrow, colorful streets lined with boutique shops in one of the best-preserved old cities in the Americas.
Discover Historic Elegance at Casa San Agustín in Cartagena de Indias
There is a more modern part of the city, filled with glass-laden high rises, which is reminiscent of Miami. However, I would recommend staying in the old city to soak up the magic of Cartagena. Staying in one of the refurbished, grand colonial homes from the 17th and 18th centuries is the best way to discover the city.
Casa San Agustín is one such property and it is situated in the heart of the action at Plaza de los Estudiantes. The refined boutique hotel was created from three meticulously restored 17th-century mansions. It has only 20 guestrooms and 11 suites, so attentive service from the staff is guaranteed. It seamlessly blends modern comforts with authentic Colombian features. You’ll notice the original frescoes in the library where they serve complimentary afternoon tea. In the guest rooms, you’ll see their iconic wood-beamed ceilings that are centuries old.
Accommodations at Casa San Agustín, Cartagena de Indias
The main feature of the hotel is a 300-year-old aqueduct that serves as a backdrop to the main plunge pool. It is precisely because of the existence of boutique hotels like Casa San Agustín that helps to keep these important relics well-preserved. Plenty of greenery such as palm trees surround the public areas to offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the old town.
The rooms are relatively spacious even at the entry-level deluxe rooms, which range from 409 and 839 sq. ft. They provide luxurious Frette linens as well as renowned Ortigia amenities from Sicily. On the other end of the spectrum, you have the eye-catching Suite Prestige. They are duplexes with an area between 1539 and 1732 sq. ft. They include two bedrooms which is ideal for families and close friends to share. All the rooms offer a complimentary mini-bar that includes soft drinks and beer. The combination of dark wood, polished marble and ornate painting tiling in the bathroom adds to the colonial grandeur of the surroundings.
Their sister property, Casa Pestagua offers a similar level of comfort and sophistication. It is known as “the most beautiful house in Cartegena”. It belonged to the powerful 18th-century aristocrat, Count of Pestagua. It had undergone a major 15-million-dollar refurbishment and had only reopened last April. Now you can live the life of a count too, when you book in to stay at Casa Pestagua. The hotel is a proud member of the Relais & Chateaux group, the only hotel in Colombia awarded with that honour.
You might feel even more exclusive at this property with only 10 spacious suites and 6 deluxe rooms. The laid-back charm is very similar to Casa San Agustin. The central plunge pool is ideal for escaping the occasional sweltering Caribbean heat. The shaded sunbeds underneath the tropical palm trees are an ideal spot for catching up with your reading list. You’ll notice plenty of Moorish-inspired arches around the boutique hotel that recount the colonial times of previous centuries.
Indulge in Culinary Excellence
The rooms have a light and airy design, no doubt helped by the double-height ceilings and excellent use of natural lighting. You’ll find sturdy-looking light wooden beams on the ceiling of all the rooms. Similar to the sister property, the entry-level room is deluxe and includes luxury linen and ever-reliable Ortigia amenities. Having been refurbished recently, the decor is marginally fresher looking than her sister property but both boutique hotels are maintained to the highest of standards.
The restaurant offering at both hotels is headed by renowned Chef Heberto Eljach, who is one of the most celebrated chefs in Colombia. At Casa Pestagua, we have the culinary delight of AniMare. The menu is a journey of Colombian cuisine with modern touches. It takes in both influences from the Caribbean and the Pacific side of the country. You’ll get to savour local classics such as shrimp and snail cocktail Cartagena style. Typically, such a dish is found as street food in the local streets of the city, but here it is served in a much-elevated format, with avocado and homemade bread. Their seafood casserole main course is equally elevated with treasures of the sea served up in lobster cream and coconut milk sauce along with fried plantain chips. At Alma situated in Casa San Agustín, you’ll enjoy a similarly extravagant fine dining experience. They are particularly proud of showcasing the best of Colombian cuisine and cater for all kinds of dietary requirements from gluten-free to vegetarian needs.
For those looking for a beach holiday, you can enjoy that as well whilst staying at both hotels. They have a private beach club at ACASĪ on Isla Barú. You can immerse your feet on the white sandy beaches and swim in the turquoise waters of the beach. The hotel can arrange a private round-trip boat charter that takes about 45 minutes and you can admire the picturesque coastline along the way. It will be a different experience to the history and culture of the old town.
Photography by stephane louesdon .
Finally, if you want to relax further, they have the Aurum spa. You can enjoy everything from a detoxifying body scrub in the hammam to a gold wrap to help nourish the skin. Aurum is the Latin word for gold.
For a holiday where you can enjoy both a city break and a beach holiday. One where you can embrace history and modernity. Make sure you check out the romantic city of Cartagena.
For more information on the hotels, please visit –
Located in sleepy Richmond, with views overlooking the Thames, The Mitre Hampton Court is our top choice for the ultimate dog-friendly winter staycation this holiday season. Our girl Hannah Tan-Gillies and intrepid doggy rePAWter TeamCocopup Charlie ventured out to foggy Hampton Court to experience the festive delights of the hotel themselves.
Beautifully illuminated in fairy lights, you’ll see the façade of Mitre Hampton Court from a mile away. The hotel sits right on the edge of the Thames, giving it an almost ethereal quality that is absolutely ideal for evoking Christmas cheer. So much so, that not even the horrendous Surrey holiday traffic could dampen our spirits.
This characterful boutique hotel is as eccentric as it is cosy. Art is everywhere in this 17th-century Grade II listed hotel, from the illustrated map of surrey to playful portraits of King Henry dotted throughout. You are greeted by a glass of Taylors Port upon arrival, a perfectly warming gesture that hints at the level of service you can expect at The Mitre Hampton Court.
The hotel is hosting a wonderfully cosy Taylors Port pop-up in the terrace which is adorned with Parisian style furniture, outdoor kitchen, twinkling lights and roaring fires. We recommend sampling one of Taylor’s signature cocktails, which includes a Porto Negroni, Port Old Fashioned or LBV Martini before going for dinner at the lovely 1665 restaurant.
Led by Chef Mark Jarvis the gorgeous riverside 1665 restaurant offers British classics with an eclectic twist. We started off with the Teriyaki cauliflower popcorn and the wonderfully indulgent panko-crusted Brie. For mains, don’t skip the Pork Belly, which is tender, crunchy, savoury and perfect for a winter meal.
The house wine, a Domaine de Saissac Cabernet Sauvignon, was the perfect choice to pair with our hearty winter meal which ended with a slice of the restaurant’s delicious (and slightly savoury) burnt basque cheesecake – which was a revelation in and of itself.
Breakfast is served at The Boathouse, where you can enjoy a nice cuppa while overlooking the Thames. The plant bowl is delish, but so too are the classic Eggs Benedict and Full English options. Almost all restaurants in Mitre Hampton Court have dedicated areas where you doggy can dine with you – which obviously gives it plus points from me and Charlie.
We stayed in the Thames View suite, which as the name suggests, has incredible riverside views. A gorgeous red patterned wallpaper decorates the space, while a handsome freestanding bath is a clear focal point. Designed by Nicola Harding, the room was spacious, colourful and appropriately festive.
There was a dog bed, dog bowls, dog toys and dog treats for Charlie too – who of course loved all the special treatment.
So – whether you are ‘In The Tub’ or ‘Out to Court’ (playful door signs which feature King Henry and Queen Charlotte respectively), there is certainly plenty to love at Mitre Hampton Court. We think it may even be the best festive dog friendly staycation this side of the Thames.
From quaint brunch spots to unique wineries and Michelin Star dining, Monterey County, CA has a diverse, vibrant culinary scene. Here’s our guide to some of the best foodie experiences in Monterey County.
Michelin Star Dining
The cool coastal town of Carmel by the Sea is quickly becoming a firm favourite with foodies. This postcard-pretty town is home to top-notch wineries and Michelin-starred restaurants. Chez Noir’s French-inspired menu showcases innovative, seafood-centric dishes that have earned them a well-deserved Michelin star. The restaurant comes from husband and wife duo, Jonny and Monique Black, both of whom bring their experience of working at Michelin-starred restaurants to the project. Jonny previously cooked at restaurants including Per Se, Atelier Crenn, and Quince.
Tucked away down a quiet street in Carmel, Chez Noir is a true haven for food enthusiasts seeking a unique and intimate dining experience. The velvet corner booths and open buzzy kitchen set the stage for a memorable meal. The menu boasts a fusion of flavours, from tantalizing appetizers to decadent desserts. Highlights include their perfectly seared scallops and the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate fondant. The staff’s knowledge and passion for each dish add a personal touch, making Chez Noir a must-visit for those who appreciate culinary artistry.
Craft Beer Paradise
For beer aficionados, Alvarado Street Brewery is a pilgrimage site in Monterey. The industrial-chic setting exudes a laid-back vibe, creating the perfect backdrop for sipping on innovative craft brews. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, the beer menu is a testament to the brewery’s commitment to quality and creativity. The friendly staff are more than happy to guide you through their extensive selection, ensuring you find the perfect pint to pair with the bar food. Alvarado Street Brewery is a haven for beer lovers and a testament to Monterey’s thriving craft beer scene.
Coastal Elegance with a Culinary Twist
Just a stone’s throw from the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf, Jacks Monterey at the Portola Hotel & Spa, is the epitome of coastal elegance. Tall bar tables, as well as plush lounge-style sofas surround the full-length bar that stretches across the back of the restaurant. Unlike some hotel restaurants, this is contemporary and cosy. At one end is an open fire and the lobby entrance features a tree adorned with twinkly lights. While the setting is fabulous, the menu and service are excellent. The menu showcases locally sourced ingredients, transforming them into exquisite dishes that capture the essence of the region. The Jacks Famous Chowder is a standout, a hearty bowl of the local dish is brimming with clams, dungeness crab, organic corn, artichoke hearts and bacon. For mains choose from fresh salads, pizza or larger plates like their Short Rib Ravioli served in a silky tomato, mushroom and sherry cream sauce with shaved parmesan. The drinks menu features some fantastic local wines like the Bernardus Griva Sauvignon Blanc and Imagery Pinot Noir. There is a great selection of cocktails too. With its stylish interior and prime location, Jacks Monterey stands out as a top-notch dining destination on the Monterey Peninsula.
Sip, Savor, and Cruise
Embark on a wine adventure like no other with Kombi Wine Tours, where vintage style meets exquisite vintages. Board the classic VW Kombi, ‘Sweet Pickle’ and journey through the scenic vineyards and wineries of Monterey, indulging in a curated selection of wines from the region. Their knowledgeable guide, Steve is full of local tit-bits and banter which makes the tour not just educational but thoroughly entertaining.
Carmel by the Sea is home to husband and wife wineries, Dawn’s Dream and Galante Vineyards. Jack Galante heads up Galante Vineyards, what Jack doesn’t know about wine is not worth knowing. He is Mr Carmel by the Sea (the town was founded by his great grandfather) and his knowledge and passion are infectious. His wines are rich, full bodied and include Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as limited amounts of estate grown Malbec, Petite Sirah, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, and several other blends. Every bottle has a ‘cowboy philosophy’ on the label, which is very Jack. He also commissions local artists to create unique pieces of art on bottles which can be refilled or saved as an investment.
Meanwhile Jack’s wife, Dawn, is serving up some outstanding tipples over at Dawn’s Dream Winery which is tied to non-profits for women and children. Her dedication to producing her ‘wines with a purpose’ has been revolutionary in the industry, supporting many great causes each year. The microclimate in the region is perfect for crips Pinots and Chardonnay. Dawn has dedicated three of her Pinots to each of her daughters, Rachel, Alyssa and Nicole. I loved Jack’s style but Dawn’s wines were my favourite.
Just along from Carmel is Corral Wine Co. Their tasting room has a ‘casual, local wine bar’ feel and this is reflected in their motto, ‘we aren’t fancy, we just make good wine.’ Corral’s young winemaker Adrien Valenzuela is creative and, on a mission, to produce well balanced wine with a lot of flavour. He says that sourcing grapes from some of the regions very best vineyards is ‘key to their success.’ His wines are exceptional, the Sauvignon Blanc is vibrant and crisp with lemon blossom notes and a pleasant minerality. Their Rose wine is also a big hit, it’s light and delicate, with aromas of strawberry and orange blossom.
Puma Road Winery is a family operation who use grapes grown in Apex vineyard soil which gives their wines a unique taste. Expect crisp Blanc de Blancs, cool Chardonnays, and light Pinot Noir. All their wines are crafted from grapes direct from their own estate and they reserve five percent of the output to create exclusive wines for their label. Their wine tasting room is close to Fisherman’s Wharf and offers wine by the glass and bottle, small bites, and often has live music.
Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, Kombi Wine Tours tailor the experience to ensure you get the most out of each tasting.
Seafood Extravaganza
For a seafood feast that celebrates the bounty of the ocean, Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette is the place to be. This award-winning upscale seafood restaurant is perched above the marina dunes at the Sanctury Beach Resort. The space is carved out into three distinct dining spaces, a buzzing bar and lounge, perfect for pre-dinner drinks, an expansive dining room that faces an open raw bar and for long summer evenings there’s an al fresco dining patio.
Located a short drive from Monterey Bay, this restaurant exudes coastal charm with a menu that pays homage to the region’s maritime heritage. The raw bar is a standout, featuring an array of oysters and seafood. The wood-fired grill adds a smoky richness to dishes like the grilled octopus and honey glazed duck. The casual yet sophisticated atmosphere, coupled with the welcoming staff, makes Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette a go-to spot for those craving a seafood extravaganza.
Quaint and Quirky Culinary Haven
Tucked five minutes from Cannery Row is Happy Girl Kitchen, a quaint and quirky culinary haven with a focus on organic, vegan and vegetarian options. The menu, filled with farm-fresh ingredients, reflects the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and community. The avocado toast is a must-try, showcasing the simplicity and excellence of Happy Girl Kitchen’s approach to food. The team here specialise in making jams and pickles so you can stock up on rich tasty preserves when you visit. Whether you’re in the mood for a brunch or a take-away lunch, Happy Girl Kitchen delivers a fresh, seasonal menu that celebrates the beauty of wholesome unpretentious food.
Enjoy the stunning Californian vistas
Lucia restaurant at Bernardus Lodge and Spa is nothing short of spectacular. Situated in the Carmel Valley it’s nestled on the grounds of rolling vineyards, olive orchards and 28 acres of fragrant lavender. With beautiful vistas, tables at Lucia are sought after.
The main dining room, located just off the lobby is contemporary. French wooden floors, soft cream furnishings, chandeliers and a focal, showpiece fireplace set the scene for a culinary cache. The patio doors open onto an al fresco dining terrace.
The day I visited the Californian sun was shining so the outdoor terrace was bustling with ‘ladies who lunch’ and while it’s a popular spot, it still has an air of calm and tranquillity.
Slick, seamless service and a menu dedicated to delicious farm-to-table fare is what sets Lucia apart from other restaurants. There’s a great selection of small and large plates to choose from. The wood brick pizzas are divine, the seasonal salads are served like a work of art and the larger plates source prime cuts of meat and market fish. Choose from a selection of wines from the Bernardus vineyard to accompany your meal.
After lunch you can wander around the gardens or enjoy a game of bocce or croquet on the lawn.
House of Coco travelled to Monterey County courtesy of See Monterey.
Our girl Hannah Tan-Gillies went to the sun-soaked shores of Somabay to experience the Solasi Festival, a three day wellness festival that celebrates wellbeing in all its forms.
Where to stay: Somabay Resort & Spa
Relatively undiscovered (but not for long) Somabay is in the midst of a major development which will see the rise of a bevy of luxury homes, new hotels and gastronomic delights on its shores soon.
It is already home to five, sprawling five-star luxury resorts which are destinations within themselves. We stayed in the Somabay Resort & Spa, which is home to one of the region’s largest and best equipped thalasso-therapy centres. Picture a Grand Budapest Hotel-inspired thalasso style that will take you on a multi-sensorial thalasso-therapy experience that will relax mind, body and soul and literally wash away all your aches and sins.
Somabay Golf Resort is the quintessential Egyptian beach resort. The hotel offers 159 comfortable and graciously appointed guest rooms and suites with private balconies overlooking the Somabay Golf Course and a magical sea view beyond. It also has several luxurious one & two-bedroom suites. Most suites can be combined with a connecting room to form two or three-bedroom apartment complexes.
The eponymous Gary Player Championship Golf Course, is of course, a big draw for golf afficionados the world over and also offers incredible panoramic views of the Red Sea and desert mountains. The hotel itself is a sprawling Egyptian palace with a delightful buffet-style restaurant, the charming Spikes pool bar – which is flanked by one of the largest resort pools you’ve ever seen in your life. Speaking from experience, the live entertainment at the hotel is simply incredible and the selection of Egyptian wines must not be missed too.
The rooms themselves, though on the more traditional side, are generously spaced and really have all that you need for an idyllic poolside holiday. The service is friendly without being stuffy and you are ensured a great night by simply sitting down and having a chat with any one of the staff at Somabay.
The beach club can be accessed by regular shuttles which come every ten minutes. Here, you can work on your tan and soak up the Egyptian sunshine, go for a swim in the Red Sea and if you’re lucky you may even spot a camel strolling along the beach. If you want to venture out of the hotel, Somabay has a fabulous wellbeing scene – the pinnacle of which is the Solasi Festival. Click here for our full review.
Things to do
Go snorkelling at the house reef
Somabay’s glorious house reef is located at The Breakers Diving and Surfing Lodge and is home to an incredible and colourful array of marine life. It is easy to get lost under the sea when the underwater world is this vivid.
Have you ever imagined yourself riding horseback on a beach? Imagine no more because at Somabay this fantasy can indeed become a reality. Jasmine Stables is a small, independently owned stable where the horses are the stars. Most of our group were quite experienced riders and so once the horses discovered that they were indeed going to the beach, you couldn’t stop them from going into a joyful gallop to the sea. Watching the horses play on the beach and splash around in the water is a truly heart-warming scene to witness.
Tranquil beaches, crystal clear water, and the pleasures of nature at every turn– all the beautiful clichés apply. Somabay truly is, outstanding by nature.
All about that yacht life? Then why not rent out a yacht with Happy Turtles Somabay? Captain Ibrahim’s yachts are luxury at its finest and Somabay offers plenty of gorgeous reefs to explore not too far from the marina. It is the best way to spend an afternoon, especially when surrounded by good mates.
Explore the wonders of adventuring in St Lucia, nicknamed the “Helen of the West Indies,” renowned for its lush rainforests, stunning peaks, and captivating history of changing hands between the English and French. Discover world-class diving sites and immerse yourself in its natural beauty. In this article, we examine the accessible adventures on offer that will allow you to soak in the alluring beauty of the island without over-inducing an excess of adrenaline.
Bamboo rafting
One of the newest experiences on offer in St Lucia is bamboo rafting on the Roseau River. It is the longest and largest river on the island. The tranquil beauty of the river in the Anse-la-Raye Quarter is in distinct contrast to the busier resort-laden parts of northern St Lucia. The enterprise has been started by the ex-tourism minister. What is particularly impressive is not only is the raft made entirely of bamboo, but your guide sets sail only with a bamboo pole. It is an entirely non-motorised experience down to the beachfront for a carbon-neutral experience. Your local guide will serenade you with facts on the local flora, fauna and topography. Mid-journey you will break at a rustic shack where you can sample local coconuts and cocktails from a local entrepreneur. There are multiple add-ons such as a rum distillery tour (more on that later) and a segway tour.
Rainforest hike
There are numerous stunning hiking trails throughout St Lucia. One I would recommend is The En Bas Saut Falls Trail. Ideally, you’ll need a 4×4 to drive to the start of the trail near Soufrière often through rugged cobblestone roads (though we did spot one brave soul trekking up jungle slopes to the hike). The trek through the majestic rainforest takes anywhere between 1.5-2.5 hours to complete. It is a sub-4 km hike which involves uneven steps down to the waterfall and then steps back up. You’ll visit a 7-8 metre waterfall and the best part is you can swim up close for a cooling escape from the tropical heat. There will be offers of guided tours as you travel closer to the starting point of the trail. However, note that this is not essential given the route is an easily identifiable trail. The trickier part would be finding the starting point with your hire car. The best way to get there is to book a guided tour with reputable boutique hotels such as the nearby Têt Rouge Resort. The excursions are reasonably priced, and the options are varied.
Catamaran cruise
A catamaran tour is the best way to appreciate the overall magnificence of the island. Têt Rouge offers a 40 ft catamaran for hire privately. You can enjoy a sunset cruise, savour a barbecue on board, swim or snorkel in the refreshing waters or simply get taken to remote, pristine beaches. You get arguably the best angle at spotting the iconic twin peaks of Gros Piton and Petit Piton. You can peek into the most exclusive resorts on the island such as Jade Mountain Resort, or if you just want to unwind the Caribbean way, recline your back onto the catamaran trampoline, listen to the sea breeze and stare into the cloudless blue sky with a rum punch in your hands.
Cacoa Sainte Lucie
If you want an elevated dining experience and still have views of the verdant tropical rainforest, make sure you head to Cacoa Sainte Lucie. Situated in Belvedere Canaries, the site is at the perfect vantage point to soak up the surrounding greenery and the soothing ocean scenery. As they are a small-batch premium chocolate maker, the menu in their restaurant unsurprisingly contains countless cocoa. One of their signature dishes is the cocoa-crusted grilled Mahi served with a sweet chilli creole sauce. You might wonder: why add cocoa to dishes? Raw cacao is a superfood containing high doses of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. Their chocolate trio dessert is not to be missed. They have an interactive chocolate-making workshop as well as a gift shop selling everything from gourmet chocolate truffles to hot chocolate powder (and my personal choice: a decadent chocolate lamington).
Rum distillery tour
Next to the bamboo rafting experience, you can also partake in a distillery tour at St Lucia Distillers. The tour has the perfect blend of video presentations, a brief rum-making tutorial, a kitsch carnival exhibition and an unbelievably generous rum-tasting finale. From April to November, when the sugarcane is harvested, guests can observe the harvesting at the cane fields which is a 5-minute walk from the distillery. The tour is about how they’ve used what’s abundant in nature in St Lucia to turn the product into one of the most popular spirits in the world. Their knowledgeable guides will take you around their working distillery and explain the concept in layman’s terms.
Rum is intimately linked to the carnival spirit and they have a carnival room displaying a dazzling array of fanciful costumes. The exhibition also goes in-depth about the origins and traditional practices that accompany carnivals in St Lucia. The finale of the tour is truly breathtaking. You get to sample their whole range of rums, rum-based creams and liqueurs. This is from the entry-level range to their most premium range, and it is all self-service and free pouring. This is a must for all rum aficionados. Afterwards, you should take a trip to their gift shop where their spirits are offered at factory prices.
Experience St. Lucia’s most iconic nature trails designed by your very own hiking butler! Discover more about these exclusive trails in our article on House of Coco.
There are roughly 29 flights per week flying from London to St Lucia. The average flight time is only 8 hours and 55 minutes. The lowest average temperature is in January at a barmy 26°C. March is the sunniest time of year, with over ten hours of sunlight per day. With these wonderful weather conditions and a diverse offering for tourists, make sure you consider St Lucia for your Caribbean holiday.
A trip to Athens is perfect for those who enjoy artisan shops, independent restaurants and boutique hotels. It is a multi-faceted city where you don’t have to plan your trip but still have plenty to do if you are based in downtown Athens.
They have a dazzling array of shopping experiences from concept stores to historic shops. One place that should be high on your list of places to visit is The Naxos Apothecary. It is the oldest herbal pharmacy in Athens.
The exposed labs will immediately attract your attention. You can observe the preparation of herbal remedies, face creams and fragrances. The Korres products you are likely to find in your home countries. However, the tailor-made face creams and bath products of The Naxos Apothecary product collection are worth purchasing. They feature a set of five fragrances inspired and named after some of the most breathtaking villages of Naxos.
Next door to the apothecary is the newly opened xenodocheio Milos boutique hotel. It is the perfect base for you to explore the city, being a short walk away from Syntagma Square. It’s the Athens equivalent of Trafalgar Square. It is the first luxury hotel from the world-renowned restaurant group, estiatorio Milos. They’ve offered elevated Greek cuisine specialising in seafood since 1979 when it was founded in Montreal.
The hotel oozes effortless elegance from the moment you step out of your car in front of the hotel. It is a 19th-century neo-classical building that was designated a landmark building by the Ministry of Culture in 1979. It is situated opposite the Old Parliament House which is now the National History Museum.
The rooms have a serene minimalist style and soothing wooden panelling that are reminiscent of Nobu Hotels. Even though they have 43 rooms only. It’s sub-divided into nine categories from your entry-level classic room to the neoclassical apartment, that is the Milos signature suite. Most of the rooms enjoy mesmerising views of the Old Parliament House or Lycabettus Hill. The summit of the latter is the highest point in central Athens.
They make exceptional use of the window area by creating a cushioned nook area, which is perfect for reading a book whilst admiring the flow of Athenians in the downtown area.
Only the very best amenities will do at xenodocheio Milos. You’ll find Simmons luxury mattresses, a Nespresso coffee machine, and an Alessi Kettle Machine. You won’t be surprised to find the toiletries are made exclusively for the hotel by The Naxos Apothecary next door. They even provide dental kits which is a rarity at most 5-star hotels.
Even though the mini-bar isn’t complimentary, it is well worth trying out the handpicked treats on display. They include Popy’s gourmet popcorn, luxury Leonidas milk chocolate and a dry “Enotria” red from the Douloufakis Winery.
You can’t talk of their hotel without mentioning their outstanding restaurant. They have branches throughout the world including London, New York and Miami. The clean design of the restaurant works perfectly with the rest of the hotel. It was designed by renowned architects, Divercity Architects.
Prominent in the design is an artist’s interpretation of a fisherman’s net on the ceiling. That is a gentle clue to the main focus of their restaurant: supremely fresh seafood. The menu includes signature dishes such as whole fish baked in sea salt and lobster from Nova Scotia either grilled or served with pasta Athenian style.
Even the breakfast buffet is filled with Greek delights. You are served with fresh juice and a break basket including Koulouri, the iconic Greek sesame bread ring. The buffet station has the signature spanakopita. The eggs of your choice cooked to order are served with local tomatoes, cheese and a smattering of olives.
Service is attentive yet discreet and you never have to wait long for any dishes to arrive. They truly embody the Greek philosophy of ‘philoxenia’, which means an act of hospitableness and welcome. Note the in-room dining is 24 hrs and carried out by the kitchen team from estiatorio Milos.
They do offer an ELEMIS SPA Suite, which is all about ‘evexia’, the Greek word for well-being. Their deeply relaxing aromatherapy massage will unwind any modern-day stresses within 60 minutes. They use Mediterranean essential oils including extracts of bitter orange, cardamon and ginger.
The massage begins with inhalation exercises and ends with a mist of Aloe Vera sprayed over the body. I would strongly recommend booking in advance as they only have one SPA suite.
Alternative dining options in the area are in abundance. Most are independently run restaurants that offer a wide variety of cuisines. Asian food is particularly well-represented in the area.
You can enjoy comforting ramen at So so so! on Apollonos Street and in fact, most of the neighbouring restaurants offer Asian cuisine. If you want high-quality yet casual-dining sushi, there is Akira Japanese restaurant. If you fancy some aromatic Vietnamese food, there is Hanoi Vietnamese restaurant. And finally, baos are all the rage in Athens. You can enjoy very affordable baos at Thess Bao with unusual combinations like their mushroom ‘gyros’ which is served with cannabis oil.
Athens is a truly vibrant city bursting with individuality. Make sure you check out my recommendations when you are next in Greece.
