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Destination Inspiration

More than a golf destination: A second look at Argentario Golf Resort & Spa

During those hopeful summer months, in between lockdowns 1 and two and when international travel seemed optimistic, Hannah Tan-Gillies hopped on a flight to Argentario Golf Resort & Spa, to see what makes this five-star golf resort so much more than a golf destination.

It seems only fair, that after months of lockdown that my first international jaunt would be to the truly impeccable Argentario Golf Resort & Spa. Located in between the Mediterranean Sea and Tuscany’s rolling hills, Argentario maximises the idyllic natural surroundings of Maremma, Tuscany.

While the resort is primarily known to golf enthusiasts, especially with its striking PGA 18-hole course, there is plenty of reason for non-golfers to venture to this side of Tuscany and experience everything that this resort has to offer.

The resort itself is a sight to behold. Designed by Andrea Foglli, the interiors instantly envelope you in an atmosphere of sleek yet tranquil oasis blending contemporary design with a distinctive retro feel. Outside, the hotel blends in with the natural landscapes of Maremma, surrounded by cork-oak woods and centuries-old olive trees.

A grand spiral staircase commands attention at the heart of the resort, whose eco-conscious design philosophy permeates every design detail. The enormous glass windows and ceilings maximise the pastoral views, which are in stark contrast to the tabarca-stone pavements, arched countertops and striking black structural elements. The hotels’ unique dragon-fly shaped silhouette means that every room offers panoramic views of the nearby lagoon and tranquil blue sea on the horizon.

The resort offers 73 generously-sized rooms and five luxury villas, which are perfectly suited for those looking for an extended stay. Each room features panoramic terraces and all the modern amenities that a luxury traveller requires.

The villas each offer individual interpretations of Tuscan country houses, imbued of course, with Fogli’s extravagant touches. Art lovers will notice the social table by Vincent Van Duysen or the Cappellini chairs and Pig Tables by Marcel Wanders, or even the Ron Gilads chandeliers at the bar.

Beyond golf, Argentario also offers an endless array of wellness and sports activities to make any visit, no matter how short or long, as enriching as possible. During my stay, I tried my hand at an outdoor workout, a run along the perfectly manicured golf course, yoga, and even olive-tree picking. Truly there was something for everybody.

For those looking for a more relaxing way to spend their days, the resort’s Espace Wellness Centre offers a wide range of treatments and massages, and offers a bio sauna, Turkish bath, and even one-on-one sessions with the resort’s in-house nutritionists.

Foodies also have plenty to chew on at Argentario, with the Club House Restaurant offering casual Italian favourites, impeccably made with only the freshest locally-sourced ingredients, and the gourmet Dama Dama restaurant serving some wonderfully creative gastronomic creations.

The menu at Dama Dama is bold and refreshingly contemporary, offering Tuscan and Italian specialties with Chef Emiliano Lombardelli’s inimitable flair. We highly recommend trying the Tasting Menu – which takes you on a colourful voyage of Tuscan flavours perfectly paired with local Italian wines from the resort’s vast wine cellar.

We also recommend trying a cocktail masterclass at the Aper Bar, named after local wild boars (Aper in Latin) which offers alchemic concoctions that will delight those who enjoy a little tipple.

While it may seem counter-intuitive to leave the hotel, the nearby towns of Porto Ercole and Orbitello offer plenty of quintessentially Italian sites to behold. These two towns reveal a non-touristic side of Tuscany that we haven’t seen before. The squares and restaurants are filled with locals, exuding a relaxed and unique community atmosphere that you don’t often see in Italy’s more popular tourist destinations.

If you are lucky, you should take a quick drive to the Convento della Presentazione al Tempio, where if you are lucky, you can get a blessing from the priest who will wish you a blessed and happy stay at Maremma. This is also the perfect spot to watch the sun set over the Silver Coast, a view that is not known to many other visitors in this magical place.

Despite all the ceaselessly fascinating things on offer at Argentario, what sets this place apart from the rest if the truly marvellous service and care of its staff. In the era of COVID, where smiles and genuine human connection are few and far in between, it is truly impressive to see the staff at Argentario go above and beyond to ensure that you enjoy your stay. That is a rarity in and of itself and in my opinion, truly what makes Argentario more than a golf destination.

Hannah stayed in a Junior Suite Club Travel Room starting at €650 per night for two people. For more information on Argentario Golf Resort & Spa’s latest offers and packages contact Tel: +39 0564 810292 booking@argentarioresort.it or visit argentarioresort.com

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Food & Drink

Man Wah at Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong – A Michelin-starred Cantonese institution is reborn

If you randomly sample travel experts for their top Hong Kong hotel recommendations, you are guaranteed Mandarin Oriental will come out in the top 2 such is the iconic, revered status of this institution. However, they are not one to rest on their laurels and earlier this year undertook extensive renovations for their Cantonese restaurant Man Wah. With the stop-start nature of business in the last 18 months or so, plenty of establishments have taken the time to refresh their décor, refresh their staff training and their menus.

Interior design firm Silverfox studios have introduced a more sophisticated blue hue to proceedings. I was told previously it was more of a garish red colour to the restaurant. There are retro-lampshades and soothing Chinese paintings, but it’s all delivered in an understated manner. Instead, your eyes are invariably drawn to the jaw-dropping Hong Kong skyline being on the 25th floor of the hotel with uninterrupted views of the fragrant harbour.

The view might steal the show, but the cuisine served up offered stiff competition. Their set lunch menu is a great way to sample the best of Cantonese cuisine. The 5 courses with petit fours highlight the tremendous variety which you might not experience outside of restaurants in Hong Kong. A case in point is the exquisitely presented, crab meat, crab roe puff. It’s hairy crab season right now in China, so naturally, they’ve stuffed their pastry with juicy, sweet crab meat. The dumplings are dainty and understated; the scallop and beetroot dumpling only has a hint of red, whereas other dim sum restaurants often over-dye their food with zero subtlety. The next course was a particularly healthy yet tasty nourishing boiled soup. In this case, they’ve used heritage carrots of varying colours which have been simmered for a considerable time along with Chinese herbal/medicinal ingredients to deliver Hong Kong’s equivalent of a “hot toddy” which will guarantee to starve most illnesses like a common cold.

The stand-out dish is the stir-fried spotted grouper fillet with crab meat, crab roe. The first thing to note is Hong Kongers notoriously demand fresh fish. Rarely would you find frozen fish served in any top-quality fine dining establishments. The grouper was not cooked a second too long or short with a freshness that exemplifies why Hong Kong is arguably the seafood capital of the world. And the addition of the crab meat, crab roe adds that extra savouriness so you shouldn’t need to add further salt. The main course section was finished off with a braised rice and whole Japanese Yoshihama abalone. Abalone is very much a status-symbol ingredient much like truffle is in the western world.

Our lunch experience was concluded with elegant almond cream, egg white, sesame dumpling. Cantonese desserts are extremely underrated, if more restaurants would offer them outside of Hong Kong, people might learn to appreciate the culinary excellence of this undiscovered gem.

Make sure you put Man Wah top of your list for restaurants to visit when you next fly into Hong Kong

https://www.mandarinoriental.com/hong-kong/victoria-harbour/fine-dining/restaurants/cantonese-cuisine/man-wah

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Egypt

Explore the beauty of Egypt with a trip to Cairo

According to a survey by Expedia, Americans are choosing vacation destinations worldwide because of recent geopolitical tensions. Egypt has long been a popular holiday destination for people around the world. In this article, we’ll look at sightseeing opportunities in Cairo, as well as other daily budget-friendly activities.

What to Expect in Cairo Today

The pyramids of Giza, the grand mosque of Kaire, colourful bazaars and a multitude of other attractions are just a central Cairo. With a luxurious array of tourist destinations and a splendid personality, Cairo has been staged as an absolute jewel.

What to do in Cairo Today

Make sure you visit the mosques in Cairo. They are beautiful-especially the Dar al-Fatih mosque located near the Islamic Museum of Egypt. Another interesting thing to do when in Cairo is visited Darbar Mafaudar al-Mahfouz Mahfouz, which was named after the Egyptian author Naguib Mahfouz who wrote twenty-five books including Cairo Coffeehouse. If you loved his novels Chouf… Madrid: Hotel Charming and Nostalgic The Hotel Charming and Nostalgic is a place I hold dear to my heart. One of the best things to do in Cairo is visited, Giza. It’s home to some amazing pyramids like the Great Pyramid of Giza and the Sphinx. The second most amazing thing in Cairo is seeing one of the many sandy beaches in Alexandria, but be sure to beware of incoming waves during busy times!

Reasons to Choose an Egyptian Tour without leaving home

There are many reasons you should consider travelling to Cairo, Egypt today. You can arrive at the international airport with ease by booking flights online or use public transit, the metro or the rental cars which are waiting for you. Make your dream of visiting Fayoum Egypt come true by turning to some of the most time-honoured methods of travel: airfare and package tours. Many companies offer special promotions for places like Cairo. A Cairo trip package with affordable airfare is the solution if you don’t want to make a long, expensive visit by plane or train.

Why Choose an Egyptian Adventure in 2021?

An Egyptian Adventure in 2019 is a magical experience and will change your life. You can test your faith with Tarbet el-Qousseby, learn where Tutenhotep built his first pyramid and how the top-secret connection between Al.

Accommodations in Cairo

Cairo is bordered by the desert to the north, the Mediterranean Sea to the west, and the Nile River to the south. When you stay in Cairo, you can find many accommodations within walking distance of each other. If you want to stay central into major conveniences for travelling employees, then staying closer to Tahrir Square or into Downtown should be your main consideration.

Activities in Cairo

Caire is the New York City of the Middle East, except you have all the buzz with locals. There are so many things you can do in this city! From eating traditional foods to visiting historical sites, Cairo is one of the most fascinating cities in the world and can easily become a lifetime destination.

Costs in Cairo

Cairo is new and exciting, but it also has trade-offs. We mentioned before that it gets very hot and humid during the day and you will want to keep up your technology at the next best thing. Be conscious of the travel costs you incur when you go to Cairo, we found a heavy appetite for food and wish we had gotten more bang for our bucks!

FAQs

If you think Egypt has always been Egypt, we have a few good news for you: the ancient city of Thebes is in full revival and visitors can explore it in its authentic glory. Thebes is simply the most beautiful ancient city in the world and home to many historical and architectural treasures, such as the Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple or The Benben Stone. It’s best to follow our guide when travelling to Egypt to avoid wasting your precious time and money.

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Travel

What Experts Predict About Tourism In The New Normal

After a dead 2020 and a relatively slow 2021, the tourism industry is back on track in the new normal. The future looks brighter as airlines, hotels, and tourist destinations are pulling crowds again. Although they cannot expect usual foot traffic in the foreseeable future, the road to recovery looks navigable now. Travel buffs can expect good times ahead as countries lift restrictions and open borders. But before you give in to the wanderlust, you must know how things may be different as tourism goes full swing. Here are the trends you must watch out for in the new normal.

Local before global is trending

Even as international borders reopen, exotic vacations to foreign lands are passé. Local trips make sense because you can sideline the paperwork, quarantine rules, and virus risks in-flight. Most countries have stringent vaccination and quarantine rules that are likely to be in place. They are hard to follow because of constant updates. Moreover, domestic trips are favorable for your wallet because you need not spend a fortune on them.

Short-haul road trips are in vogue

While local travel is booming, the idea of short-haul road trips sounds even more attractive. Road trips cost a fraction, and the best part is that you can cut exposure at the airport and in-flight. Not to mention, you have the freedom and flexibility to plan a last moment trip with family or friends. Just pack your stuff in the car, fill up the tank, and hit the road without worrying about finding a flight and looking for deals. Weekend getaways couldn’t get better than this!

Wellness vacations are big

As health becomes a top priority in the new normal, wellness vacations are big. You can book a weekend at a spa resort and get a reset with therapies like massage, yoga, and meditation. A cannabis trip is a great idea if you are a regular consumer past the legal age. You can pack cbd essential oil, edibles, and concentrate discreetly in your luggage and embark on the trip. If you plan to fly, check the airline rules before packing your stash. Things are relatively simpler for road trippers as long as you carry your supplies in the trunk.

Outdoor holidays are popular

If you want to opt for the wellness trend, planning an outdoor trip is a great idea. Camping, hiking, and fishing take you close to nature. You will probably want to indulge in these activities after an extended indoor time at home. Nothing beats the feeling of fresh air and the sun’s warmth on your skin. Another benefit you cannot overlook with these holidays is that they are inherently socially distant.

Extended work trips may be an option for most

Tourism in the new normal is not only about short breaks and weekend getaways. Extended work vacations make an ideal option if your employer has decided to work remotely for the long haul. You can pack your bags along with your work devices and find accommodation with Wi-Fi for a long break in a beach or mountain resort. Even better, find a vacation rental that fits your budget.

Tourism trends in the new normal are practical and relevant, and you can follow them without second thoughts. Pick the one that works for you and fuel your wanderlust again.

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Culture

The Delicious Dolomites

Famous for its fantastic ski runs, the Dolomites may not be the first place that comes to mind for a foodie getaway however, this rugged, dramatic landscape is the backdrop to some of the finest Italian cuisine. I took an out of season trip to this beautiful corner of Italy and took a culinary journey up the mountains.

Lefay Resort and Spa Dolomiti

I checked into the luxurious Lefay Resort and Spa, a modern, mountain hideaway located in Pinzolo This oasis of calm is the perfect base to explore this gastronomic region, rich in tasty, unique dishes.

This expansive mountain range is dotted with restaurants. After a morning hiking up to Vallesinella in the Madonna de Campiglio region, I was ravenous and ready for lunch. Hugging the side of the mountains is Chalet Fogajard, an alpine lodge straight out of Heidi. This beautiful rustic retreat offers spectacular views of the Brenta Dolomites and is the perfect location for lunch. As the afternoon sun sneaks through the rugged rocks and clouds, I enjoy a well-earned, cold glass of Nosiola and soak up this outstanding location. The charismatic owner, Eduardo greets me and swiftly seats me opposite the fire in a snug nook of this charming restaurant. All the menu uses local in season produce. It’s simplistic, fresh but the finish and presentation of all the dishes makes it feel that bit more special than your run of the mill Italian mountain hut.

Views at Chalet Fogajard

Starter was a flan of ricotta cheese with fondue and cannelloni served with cabbage and beef Carne Salada – a classic Garde Trentino dish bursting with flavour. Now this is a bold statement, but I stand by what I say, the lasagne here is by far the most delicious I have ever tried. Unlike traditional lasagne this had no meat and was instead made with four simple local ingredients – homemade pasta, radicchio, butter and casolét, an Italian cheese produced in the mountains and valleys of Trentino-Alto Adige. This Italian staple was delicate yet rich in flavour. Desert was a light, fluffy chocolate mousse served with homemade biscuit followed by a selection of liqueurs made by Eduardo’s wife, using herbs and plants foraged from the local hills. Be warned, these fragrant sips pack a punch.

Alimentari Caola, Pinzolo

Back in Pinzolo, I head to Alimentari Caola, an Aladin’s cave of tasty morsels. Owner Antonio lives and breathes his business. This 100-year-old delicatessen has been in the family for three generations and stocks some of the best produce from the surrounding area. His passion for all things local is reflected in this modest two floor store that houses over 350 local wines, 167 types of Grappa (17 of which are from the region) as well as some of the finest cheeses including some produced by his son. Downstairs Antonio has created a space to sample these delectable wares. I got to try the delicious creamy Fiori, Crozzon and Malga cheeses as well as rich, juicy hams from the region. Nibbles of local bread and Carne Salada are served with oils from Lake Garda. This is accompanied by a glass (or two) of Ferrari Rose, a dry and delicate sparkling wine. Alimentari Caola is more than a delicatessen, it’s a hidden gem, a place you must go if you want to buy some authentic Italian produce. Pick up some amazing chocolate and wine or Italian oil and cheese while tapping into Antonio’s knowledge of all things local.

The tasting menu at Grual

I conclude my stay with a gastronomic treat back at Lefay Resort. There are so many great places to eat in the region but the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, Grual, offers a unique, culinary experience that’s a real tribute to the Dolomites. Executive chef, Matteo Maenza, has designed an eight-course ‘altimetric’ tasting menu that reflects the territory and a specific altitude. The menu highlights the natural characteristics of the three mountain ranges, starting from the valley floor with ingredients such as red turnips and white fish, then moving up to alpine pastures with wild herbs, apple and brown trout then finally reaching the high mountains with char, deer, and roe deer. The menu is 100% seasonal and Maenza often takes mountain walks with his sous chef for inspiration. Every course was paired with an excellent wine and beautifully presented. I adored the Spaghetti Monograno Felicetti with smoked mountain butter, cornelian, and deer. The Arctic char, Trentino bread purée with wild broccoli was to die for but the pièce de resistance was desert which consisted of Caramel Tarte Tatin, puff pastry ice cream and almond chips as well as a final course of walnut emulsion, chocolate mousse, blackberry compote and mountain pepper ice cream. I finished the evening with a bespoke herbal tea made from herbs locally foraged. I was truly spent, while each course was modest in size by the time I finished my eighth I was full up.

Lefay Resort is a great location to explore this gastronomic region and experience a fusion of Italian and Alpine cooking.

A stay at Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti costs from 350 Euros per room, per night including breakfast and taxes.

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Travel

A New Life: Tips for Retiring in Another Country

What are your retirement plans? Have you ever thought of retiring in another country? This is an increasingly popular option for many seniors, and even if you don’t have a particularly adventurous streak, you might be more tempted if you do more research. Some places have large enough retired expat communities that you’ll still feel right at home only with better weather, lower prices and cheaper access to health care. If you have done your part, and followed all the tips on retiring early, or even on time, now you get to decide how and where you will spend those years. Keep reading for tips on how to relocate abroad after you retire.

Your Preferences

There are plenty of factors to consider. Among them are climate, proximity to the United States and cost of living. Some people might choose a place like Mexico or Costa Rica because they want to be able to travel back to the US more quickly and easy, but for others, this might not be a concern. Another important point to keep in mind is whether you want to be in a place with a big expatriate population or not since this can make or break the experience for many people.

For now, try not to think too much in terms of specific countries even if you have some places in mind. Even though there are specific countries that offer incentives to choosing to retire there, it’s your life so you must decide from your own perspectives. Think instead about the specific elements that you’re looking for. If you cast a wider net, you may discover options you weren’t aware of.

Your Budget

Your budget will help you determine where you can go and what kind of lifestyle you can expect to live there. Be sure to take all of your assets into account, including your retirement savings, what payments you can expect to receive from Social Security and the value of your home if you sell it or rent it out. You may have additional assets you can draw on as well, such as a life insurance policy. You can review a guide that lists and compares the main companies that offer a life settlement in exchange for your policy.

The Logistics

Once you have a good idea of what you’re looking for and what your budget will be, it’s time to narrow it down to the specifics. There are two different elements of this process. You could think of them as quantitative and qualitative. The former is about the nuts and bolts of what it takes to live in another country in terms of visa requirements. The latter is less concrete and is about how you feel about certain places.

You’ll need to get a handle on the former before digging into the latter because there’s no point in falling in love with a country that you can’t feasibly move to. Fortunately, a number of country welcome retirees who can prove a certain level of financial security. Once you have established the ones that you are able to move to that also meet your other criteria, one or more reconnaissance trips are in order to see if the places live up to how you imagine them. Visiting a place is never the same as moving there, so try to talk to others who have moved there about their experiences.

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Couples Travel

Cora Cora: It’s Freedom Time!

House of Coco have been lucky enough to experience many wonderful launches, places, and products. Most recently #TeamCoco were some of the first guests and UK press to experience a new resort in the Maldives: Cora Cora.

So, here is a whistle-stop summary of the new resort. Be sure to keep an eye out for the full feature in our next print issue to find out why your next booking should be Cora Cora.

Compared to our usual level of luxury, Cora Cora isn’t up there. Yet the resort offers a different type of luxury, freedom. After multiple lockdowns and what feels like a never-ending global pandemic, freedom is what we are all yearning for. So, the fact Cora Cora’s main concept is freedom, makes it the most luxurious place of all.

The resort is situated on Maamigili Island in Raa Atoll, a natural lagoon in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Cora Cora is the vibrant and colourful dose of escapism in a place full of blue skies and turqoise waters. The resort offers 100 villas ranging from beach villas to a family villa complete with pool and slide into the ocean.

Cora Cora has a premium all-inclusive concept meaning you can enjoy all the food you like. The package also includes a few complimentary resort experiences.

The food at Cora Cora is most definitely a highlight as Head Chef, Muath Abu Diab oversees the four restaurants. From Acquapazza, an Italian restaurant, who’s chef has only cooked pizza for 15 years. To Tazaa a restaurant that has a ‘curry master’ that specialises in 50 curries from Indian to Maldivian. The curated culinary team is set to make every dish unforgettable. They also cater for a range of dietary requirements; opt for vegan meals, refined sugar free treats, or tee-total drinks.

For a small island there is a lot to do at Cora Cora. Have a massage at the Moshka Spa, snorkel in the home coral reef just meters from the beach, have a fly board lesson or simply while away the hours by the pool.

The resort celebrates the culture and heritage of the Maldives with an on-site museum and heritage site. The island is home to two extremely rare ritual baths from the pre-Islamic times. Along with an array of artefacts from throughout the ages; a haven for history lovers.

If guests wish to venture off the island there are excursions ranging from jet-ski tours to other islands and sandbank picnics. There is also the option of a boat trip to Ghost Island, an island left abandoned by the 2004 tsunami.

In the evenings relax after dinner with a few drinks and live music or opt for a romantic evening with beach cabana dinner. There is even the option to watch a film of your choice with a private ‘cinema on the sand’.

However you choose to spend your time at Cora Cora, the team will ensure you enjoy your freedom time and leave feeling rejuvenated.

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Canada

How One (Slightly) Rusty Van has Changed the Way I Travel

With change comes opportunity, and House of Coco writer, Tilly-Jayne Kidman has just embarked on a new project featuring a 1990’s campervan. Adventure now starts at home, read how a (slightly) rusty van has transformed her vision of travel for now and beyond.

When the pandemic hit and travel grounded to a halt, I felt lost. My life had been all go for many months, juggling a steady stream of freelance work with jetting off to a new destination on an almost monthly basis. Known for being the busy one, I was caught up in the buzz of my own life but all of a sudden, I felt as redundant as the planes on the Heathrow tarmac. I was no longer chucking a bikini into my suitcase and catching planes like buses, no, I was now watching back-to-back episodes of Schitts Creek and ordering a new pair of sweatpants. What I didn’t realise at this point (I think I’d just reached season three) was that I would soon be changing more than just my travel habits.

Like most, I thought this would be a temporary glitch in my busy life, that before long I’d be dashing off to the airport and having an almighty meltdown when my passport was not in the safe place where I definitely left it. As time passed, it became apparent that this would not be the case, life was changing and it was slowing down. Travel began to feel like a distant dream, an old life. I reminisced on old photos, scrolling for hours pining over memories of a former life. People watching in Cape Cod, pretending to understand baseball in Boston, road-tripping around the East coast of Canada. If only past me knew how good she had it! Never one to dwell, I began to explore the idea of an alternative form of travel. Slow travel, local travel.

I’ll put my hands up and (rather ashamedly) admit that travel to me meant exploring destinations outside of the UK. Sure, I’d ticked off a few of the popular UK hotspots, the Lake District has always been a favourite and I’d been to the coast a few times, but I’d never really sunk my teeth into the country I’d grown up in. Favouring bargain Ryanair flights to Europe over a weekend in Norfolk but when a flight to Copenhagen was less than the cost of dinner, it’s easy to see how we get swept up in the rush of bagging great deals and packing our bags. Not so great for the planet. With international travel off the cards for the foreseeable, I began to toy with the idea of van life. A lifestyle I’d been growing gradually more obsessed with over the past year or so. I followed van lifers on Instagram and on YouTube, admiring their travels and life on the road. They all seemed so happy and carefree, and I wanted a slice of that freedom.

One thing I’ve discovered since the pandemic, is that yes, holidays and trips are great, but actually it’s freedom that I value the most. Whether that’s here in the UK or on a sandy beach in Ibiza. This relentless craving for freedom led me down the van life road, and that’s when everything changed. I spent hours researching vans, would I buy a campervan or attempt a self-build conversion? Well, I’m not too handy with plumbing or electrics so maybe that won’t work. Ok maybe I should finance a new van so it’s reliable. THAT’S how much they cost? Ok maybe not. I went back and forth, until one fateful day, on my government-approved daily walk I bumped into a rather retro-looking Totoya Hiace with a ‘for sale’ sign in the window. I hadn’t felt such a rush of excitement in months, it was surely meant to be. I’d researched Japanese vans and the general consensus was that they’re pretty reliable, so with that in mind I scribbled down the number on the back of a receipt and as soon as I returned home I was on the phone and arranging a viewing. I will say that by this point, I had already decided this was my van. I’m not sure there was anything that could have put me off, once I get something in my head, it’s happening.

Welcome Elvis

And that’s how Elvis came about. My new pride and joy. I viewed him for approximately 45 seconds before thrusting the cash into the man’s hand. He’s a 1994 Toyota Hiace import with just 69,000 miles on the clock. He’s been well-cared for with lots of life and adventures left in his old soul even if he is a bit rusty around the edges. In all honesty, I used to think caravans were predominantly for old people, but here we are. I’m even a member of the Camping and Caravan Club! Who is she?

My plans for Elvis are modest thanks to the already built-in bed and kitchen set-up, I’m quite lucky in the fact the hard work has already been completed, but I am giving him a much-needed refresh. The van is very much stuck in the 1990’s, so I’ve been working to bring him into the 21st century. A great little project that’s within the realms of my DIY skillset (just about), the floor has been replaced, curtains and new cushion covers are underway and I’m planning to give the dull wooden furniture a fresh coat of white paint. It’s the perfect base for all of my UK adventures, and we’ve got Cornwall, Wales, the New Forest and the Peak District lined up for the summer. Does he go above 50mph? No. Does he travel well uphill? Don’t even talk to me about it. What he does do though is get me there, it just takes a little patience.

The van life trend might be an Instagram phenomenon, but it has opened my eyes up to slower, more sustainable travel. The word sustainability gets thrown around an awful lot, to the point I think its lost meaning and impact to a certain degree. I’ve always felt a sense of guilt when I step on a plane, persuading myself that off-setting my carbon footprint alleviates any wrongdoing but knowing deep down that this is just a drop in the ocean. Will I ever get on a plane ever again? Yes of course, because I do believe travel is important and that we can be responsible, but the van has allowed me to explore slow travel, and even better, local travel. Exploring in a manner that’s better for the earth feels good, lowering my impact where I can, from reducing my air miles right down to my reusable flask, single-use plastic free van and plant-based diet.

I’ve experienced more of the United Kingdom in the past six months than I have in my entire lifetime. Elvis is taking me down roads I’d never have travelled before, introducing me to new communities of van lifers, and the greatest gift of all? Freedom. My Netflix account is wondering where the hell I am, because instead my days off are now jam packed with adventure. From ticking off the best beaches in Norfolk, to gazing at the staggering natural beauty of Durdle Door. Elvis has given me more than I could have ever imagined, and proven that even in the darkest of situations, there’s always opportunity if you seek it.

My future of travel looks different to what I could have possibly imagined pre-pandemic. Yes, I miss those balmy summer evenings on holiday, getting lost in bustling street markets and discovering delicious local cuisine. Those days will be back, I’m sure. For now, though, I’m happy to be living life with my little van. International travel is somewhat of a luxury and I will savour every last drop as trips become fewer and more meaningful. Perhaps one day soon I can hit the road in Europe and discover the South of France, but for now, I’m more than happy to settle for the Norfolk coast!

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Dog-friendly

The Cadogan and Pet Pavilion launch the ultimate staycation package for pampered pooches

Get your posh paws on because The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel has partnered with pet care brand, Pet Pavilion, to launch the ultimate dog-friendly experience.

The Belmond property is rolling out the red carpet for posh pooches, who can now snooze on luxury pet beds and be whisked away in style by a doggy taxi service for professional grooming and pampering treatments at Pet Pavilion’s and enjoy a menu of nutritious doggy delights.

Located just a stone’s throw away on King’s Road, Pet Pavilion’s expert groomers provide a stress-free environment for pets to be pampered, with an amazing treatment menu that includes a classic bath, trim and blow dry to mani-pedis and dog facials. Four-legged will be picked up from The Cadogan by Pet Pavilion’s doggy taxi and chauffeured to their appointment, where they will be pampered in doggy spa rituals before being transferred back to the hotel. Guests can book the grooming services in advance or request them while on the property at the concierge, subject to availability.

The culinary team at The Cadogan hotel have developed a carefully curated menu of dog-friendly dishes to get all tails wagging and ensure that every breed and palate is catered for. Pampered pooches can even have their meals delivered to their rooms by a dedicated butler service – bone appétit!

Pet Pavilion products are also available in-room at The Cadogan, ensuring the finest experience for canine guests, including stainless steel feeding bowls and sumptuous bedding, perfect after a walk at the beautiful Cadogan Place Gardens. Gift boxes are also available, featuring delicious treats and toys to keep playful pups entertained.

Primely positioned midway between Chelsea and Knightsbridge, The Cadogan is an intimate home in the heart of the city. It boasts 54 individually designed rooms, captivating artwork and design details honour the hotel’s rich heritage.

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Top Tips for a Memorable Road Trip

If you have always had the ambition to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime road trip, you should go now! Whether you’re planning on venturing to your favorite city or simply enjoying a spontaneous adventure with friends, a road trip is a memory you’ll treasure forever. One of the best aspects of a road trip is that you have the freedom to choose wherever you wish to go and with whatever budget you have in mind. However, planning the basics will ensure you don’t encounter difficulties. Check out some of our top tips below:

  • Get plenty of sleep before the trip

Driving for hours on end can be exhausting, therefore, it’s important to get at least 7-9 hours of sleep the night before. It would be wise to start out in the morning when you’re fresh and ready to take on the day, as opposed to late evening after a stressful day at work. Also, ensure
that you take regular breaks to refresh and maintain your focus throughout the trip as a safety precaution.

  • Getting a car

The type of car you use for the trip will be dependent on the type of trip you’re embarking on, as well as how many people will be joining you. If you haven’t yet got a car, it would be worth considering used car finance Liverpool, due to the fact that it’s a much more affordable option than buying outright, as the payment can be spread out over a period of time to ease the financial stress.

  • Travel with the right people

While it may seem a fun experience to embark on the adventure with a group of friends, it may be worth thinking more carefully about who you’d like to travel with. It would be wise to choose travel companions who have similar personality traits to prevent disagreements throughout the trip, and as a bonus, someone who enjoys the same activities. Remember, you’ll be spending days together in a car and working as a team to figure out directions, which can become taxing if you’re with the wrong people.

  • Ask locals for their recommendations

While a simple Google search can bring up a list of ‘things to do’ in a certain destination, you’ll never truly get a real insight into the best places to visit. It’s easy to check out customer reviews for restaurants and attractions online; however, it’s unlikely you’ll find those local delights that give you an authentic experience of the area. Asking locals for their recommendations is the best way to uncover some of the best local secrets when it comes to accommodation, eateries and activities.

  • Decide on your itinerary

One of the benefits of a road trip is that you’re in control of your own itinerary. Before travelling, it would be wise to decide on the crucial spots you’re keen to visit. This will prevent spending hours driving around aimlessly and missing key sights that are an integral part of the trip. Similarly, you should also ensure that you are scheduling in enough downtime throughout your trip to give your body the chance to rejuvenate.

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