For many of us, the desire to travel is bound up in the chance to escape the everyday. There’s no better feeling than leaving real life behind to explore uncharted territory, easily accessible just a short flight away. But while the picturesque squares of Italy or sun-drenched beaches of Greece always draw a summer crowd, historic Malta is the Med’s best kept-secret; an island home to faraway lands that feel a million miles from home.
Malta’s magical feel is largely due to its old-world charm, with towns and cities that have stood the test of time, characterised by sleepy harbours, winding alleyways and impressive churches. Perhaps the island’s rich cultural tapestry – with nods to Arabic, Italian and British influences – add to its almost otherworldly feel. Malta seems to have escaped being tainted by chain restaurants and busy high streets, blending old and new together seamlessly.
But while Malta’s 4,000 year-old history is still very much alive architecturally, that doesn’t mean the island isn’t moving with the times. Malta has a party scene to rival neighbouring Ibiza, thanks to the arrival of Annie Mac’s Lost & Found festival, with DJ sets that will take you from hidden coves, to a jungle-like amphitheatre.
And that’s not to mention its bustling restaurant scene, with traditional dishes served in dramatic surroundings, followed by cocktails in cave-like bars. If you’re planning a visit to Malta, here are the experiences to put on your travel to-do list.
Dine al fresco in Marsaskala
A small and sleepy harbour town in the south of the island, Marsaskala is famous for both its tasty seafood dishes and colourful painted boats dotted around the water. A peaceful spot, that lends itself to long afternoons spent by the water enjoying a fresh seafood platter and an ice-cold beer (FYI, Cisk is Malta’s signature lager).
Explore the Old Capital, Mdina, known as the ‘Silent City’
For Game of Thrones fans, the best way to describe Malta’s ancient walled city is as if you’d stepped straight into King’s Landing. Which is pretty much on the mark, considering that the town was used as a set for the show during earlier seasons. Sleepy Mdina’s cobbled streets are lined with the palaces of Malta’s nobility and architecture dating back to the Roman Empire.
Its sandy-coloured buildings also house a number of famous restaurants and bars on the island – like the Fontella Tea Gardens and Vinum Wine bar situated above the city walls – so you can enjoy some spectacular views after a day of wandering.
Take the ferry out to Gozo
Introverts, rejoice. Malta’s smaller sister island, Gozo, is the definition of unspoilt. Travel on the ferry from Ċirkewwa across the Gozo Channel to discover wild, unkempt beaches and glistening coves. And don’t forget to pack a snorkel!
Party day and night
It’s not just festivals like Lost and Found and the draw of international DJs to the paradise-setting of Cafe Del Mar that bring the party to Malta. In the villages, street parties bring an entirely different type of celebration to the island.
From June until September villages across the island are awash with colour, with processions filling the streets and fireworks lighting up night skies, each competing to put on the most vibrant display in celebration of each village’s patron saint. While village floats, marching bands and make-shift food stalls may sound quaint; don’t be fooled. The party here gets just as wild, with some village festivities lasting well into the next afternoon.
Wander the capital, Valetta, for cultural afternoon
Majestic Valletta is home to some of the Med’s most coveted artworks, with two original masterpieces by Italian painter Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio nestled within the walls of the theatrical St John’s Cathedral.
Valletta’s baroque streets were made for wandering and you’ll find no short supply of lofty art galleries and ornate palaces that double up as impressive museums. For those looking for culture, wandering through Valletta’s sun-dappled squares makes for a joyous afternoon.
The mighty United States of America may cover nearly 10 million square kilometres, but how many of us are guilty of glossing over its fascinating cities in favour of those old faithfuls like New York and Las Vegas?
The world’s love affair with the USA shows no sign of abating, but while post-corona travel plans the to the States may currently be up in the air, we know that when we do head back over the pond our attention will be turning to America’s underrated gems for an electrifying experience of US culture somewhere new.
There are dozens of exciting US cities that rival the big hitters, that will leave your tastebuds tantalised, your culture barometer maxed out and your urge for discovery firmly quelled. We’ve picked three of our favourites that we can’t wait to explore.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Known as the birthplace of America and under two hours from New York by train from Penn Station, Philly has plenty to keep you entertained if you fancy a detour from the city that never sleeps.
What to see
Head to Independence National Historic Park for a guided tour and see where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were drafted at Independence Hall, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Brush up on your American history at The Museum of the American Revolution.
Take in more than 2,000 years of art history at Philadelphia Museum of Art and embrace your inner Rocky with a race up its iconic steps.
See Rodin’s iconic ‘The Thinker’ at the Rodin Museum, home to one of the largest collections of his works outside of Paris
Take a walking tour of some of the cities 4,000 murals; visit muralarts.org to plan your route.
Face your fear at the Eastern State Penitentiary, an abandoned prison that’s creepy and fascinating all year long but turns into a scary immersive experience around Halloween.
Longwood Gardens may be outside of the city, but worth the drive for what is one of the top botanical gardens in the world.
Where To Eat & Drink
You can’t visit without trying a Philly Cheesesteak; fresh, soft and squishy Italian rolls, filled with melted cheese and tender pieces of beef. Campo’s Deli has been serving them up for over 70 years, so they know what they’re doing.
One of the most prominent craft beer cities in the world and often referred to as the ‘Best Beer Drinking City in America’; you’ll find a host of historical brewpubs and renowned breweries across the city.
Make sure you visit Reading Terminal Market on an empty stomach; it’s one of America’s largest and oldest public markets and offers local food favourites including hoagies, pretzels and Pennsylvania Dutch goodies.
We got some tips from a local on their favourite spots to dine out. Head to El Vez for the best nachos in town, Sampan for delicious Asian and its super cool Graffiti bar, the farm-to-table Talulas Garden and for dessert, you can’t beat Franklin Fountain; an old-fashioned ice cream shop and a Philly classic.
Seattle, Washington
It’s easy to be drawn to the beautiful sunshine of LA or the offbeat charm of San Francisco, but edge north into the Pacific Northwest and you’ll be rewarded with this year-round destination and its cornucopia of iconic sights, outdoor recreation, arts and culture, world-class sports and a vibrant and thriving culinary scene.
What to See
You literally can’t miss the Space Needle, given it towers over the Seattle skyline at 605ft tall. Don’t miss the world’s first and only rotating glass floor.
Discover the work of Washington native and contemporary artist David Chihuly at Chihuly Garden and Glass. You might recognise the iconic glassblower’s intricate work from the central sculpture housed in the atrium of London’s V&A museum.
Seattle’s first neighbourhood, Pioneer Square, is a bustling area with beautiful Romanesque Revival architecture as well as trendy boutique shops, chic bars and restaurants.
The Museum of Pop Culture is a must-visit, particularly for any music fans. Designed by Frank Gehry, the architecture of the building aims to replicate a smashed guitar, in homage to the legendary musicians that hail from the city.
Olympic National Park is home to lush rainforests, mountain peaks, beaches, rivers and hot springs. With activities including hiking, fishing, tide-pooling and camping, it’s an escape to another world.
Where To Eat & Drink
Elliott’s Oyster House has been serving up a fresh catch on Pier 56 for over 40 years. There’s no better spot to enjoy speciality Pacific oysters with wine pairings while watching the world go by.
It’s no secret Seattle is famous for its coffee – it was the birthplace of Starbucks after all – but head to Storyville Coffee for some of the best blends in the state
A celebration of the food and wine of the Pacific Northwest, The Herbfarm unveils a new, nine-course thematic menu every few weeks to showcase the very best of the region, using ingredients grown in its garden and nearby farm to serve seasonal and unusual cuisine.
If visiting in March, make sure that Taste Washington is in your diary; a four-day food fest featuring hundreds of Washington wineries, chefs and restaurants offering tastings, demos, talks and workshops
Denver, Colorado
Lonely Planet named Denver one of its top cities to visit in 2020 and we’re inclined to agree. It’s a cultural playground, not to mention the access point for plentiful outdoor adventures.
What to See
Visit the Golden Triangle Creative District, home to the Colorado Photographic Arts Center, Denver Art Museum and the Clyfford Still Museum, dedicated to the mysterious life and revolutionary art of a modern master.
Easily one of the world’s most phenomenal live music venues, Red Rocks Amphitheatre has hosted iconic performers such as the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix and The Rolling Stones. It’s worth timing your trip to make a pilgrimage here for a gig you will never forget.
Denver has a packed annual calendar of festivals. The Denver March PowWow is one of the largest events of its kind in the country featuring more than 1,500 dancers from 100 tribes. Throughout the year you’ll find everything from the Grilled Cheese Fest to the Five Points Jazz Festival and Denver BBQ Festival.
The city has 85 miles of bike trails to explore, not to mention pedal boating on Washington Park, kayaking on the white-water chutes at Confluence Park and plenty of walks to take in that stunning Denver skyline.
What To Eat & Drink
Opened in 2018, Milk Market in downtown Denver is home to 13 restaurant stalls, three bars and an artisan food market, while Denver Central Market in RiNo, offers farm-to-table cuisine and plenty of seasonable, vegan options.
The Great American Beer Festival is hailed as the largest beer festival in the world; representing the biggest collection of US beer ever served.
Our local intel tells us RiNo’s Cart Driver is Denver’s home for sharing wood-fired pizzas, fresh oysters, seasonal market plates and cocktails. Señor Bear is a hotspot for Latin-inspired food and drink and The Wolf’s Tailor stitches together Chef Kelly Whitaker’s collaborations and travels through Italian kitchens and Asian night markets.
Denver has no shortage of exciting bars. El Five boasts an uninterrupted view of the Denver skyline, Seven Grand houses over 7,000 whiskies and Improper City with its 12,000 square foot patio, is the perfect location for outdoor summer drinks.
Most travel writers wouldn’t put covering health and safety on top of their aspirational writing list, but in this COVID-19 era, you can imagine that is probably one of the most googled topics around. Recently, I flew out on the first ‘COVID-free’ flight to the Canary Islands to discover the multi-faceted aspects of Tenerife and also how COVID-secure their safety procedures are throughout the island. On the same flight was the UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili. His team at the United Nations is keen to kick-start the tourism industry again, knowing how vital tourism is to places like the Canary Islands.
In this new era, one thing to note is there are always risk with travelling and it’s more pertinent than ever in the current climate. When I travelled to Tenerife, there was no quarantine period for returning UK travellers, but that had changed by the time I wrote up this article. No doubt, this might change again a few times before the current crisis is over. My advice is to book your holidays, but make sure you book it last minute.
Tenerife and all of the Canary Islands are probably one of the safest places on earth with very low rates of COVID infections over the last few months. At the time of writing, the Canary Islands had about 2,610 confirmed cases in total since the beginning of the year; there are 8 islands in total and to put things into perspective, at the height of the pandemic, UK had almost 1,000 cases in a single day.
During our few days of visiting the various parts of the island, mask-wearing was commonplace both indoors and outdoors, hand-sanitisers were in abundance and you are greeted with hand sanitising on arrival in some restaurants. Public areas, and in particular public transport, are cleaned frequently such as our tram ride from Santa Cruz to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Cristobla de La Laguna.
If you want to know how well they’ve adapted, you need to look no further than our first-night stay at H10 Costa Adeje Palace. Yes, that is the infamous hotel that had an early outbreak of COVID-19 back in February where the guests had to quarantine for a maximum of 14 days. Our temperature was checked on arrival, the pens we used to sign the documents were used once and then cleaned. The breakfast buffet was still happening, but dishes were either covered in cling film or served to you by a waiter. You are more likely to come across a hand sanitiser throughout the hotel rather than finding a cash machine.
The question of mask-wearing is often on people’s minds. No, you don’t have to wear them whilst you are sat down eating your breakfast and also when you are on your sun lounger. They’ve made sure the loungers are socially distanced and there’s never more people in the swimming pool than there are sun loungers available.
Likewise, we had a socially-distanced welcome dinner, where there were only 4 people per round table which normally fits 8-12 people. Microphones for speeches were sprayed in between different speakers. Our welcome presents included face coverings and hand sanitisers.
If there are any concerns, it’s not from the islands themselves but the flying experience. You are still sat very close to other air passengers. You are still served food during the journey where you have to remove your masks. And despite warnings to not stand up until the rows in front have departed first on arrival, most people are still desperately keen to get off the plane. Transfer buses are also incredibly cramped. If governments and airport authorities can introduce more uniformity to COVID-secure procedures at airports than this will no doubt help to bring the industry back to more of a stable footing.
Dubai, known for its lavish hotels, incredible experiences, enviable skyline and contrasting desert dunes, is welcoming visitors once again following the reopening of its borders on 7th July. British visitors can expect to see a few changes as Dubai reopens with social distancing measures front of mind but can still enjoy warm hospitality, incredible experiences and plenty of sunshine. Here at House of Coco we’re ready to hop on a flight to Dubai faster than you can say ‘lavish getaway,’ so we’ve put together our roundup of the best things to do to make sure your time in Dubai is one to remember…
Luxury villas with the best hotel facilities:
Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts is welcoming guests to live the moment in complete privacy while enjoying a well-deserved change of scenery. From personal butler service to private plunge pools and exclusive gardens, enjoy a sense of comfort and tranquillity in a tantalisingly secluded environment. Jumeirah Zabeel Saray offers curated experiences that appeal to varying preferences and needs. The Ottoman themed residences deliver stunningly beautiful ocean views with a soothing blend of luxury and calm for guests to relax and unwind. Jumeirah Al Naseem recently opened two penthouses – the galley-inspired Ocean Penthouse and the spacious Royal Penthouse – offering privacy, sublime views of the Arabian Gulf, and featuring a private 11-metre infinity pool to cool off.
Guests visiting Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort will be surrounded by endless blue in an over water villa, the first of its kind in the region. Visitors can expect to wake up to stunning sunrises and spend sunny days out on the terrace suspended over the waters, whilst a Villa Host is on hand to offer personalised concierge services.
A shimmering jewel set on a seahorse-shaped island in Jumeira Bay, Bvlgari Resort Dubai is encircled by ocean views. Home to the first Bvlgari Yacht Club & Marina, its nautical spirit inspires the resort’s design, making it an oasis of luxury just minutes from the mainland. The resort offers bespoke services to every single guest, from the privacy of in-room check-in to packing and unpacking service and luxurious in-room dining.
One of a kind desert experiences:
A private hot air balloon ride across the sleeping Emirate is an unforgettable way to experience Dubai. Guests will soar up, up and away 4,000ft over the pristine sand dunes as the sun rises over the backdrop of the Hajar mountains.
Couples hot air balloon experience starting from £2,046.
Visitors can experience Dubai with a luxurious desert safari which has been meticulously designed for those who seek out the finer things in life. Explore Dubai’s Desert Conservation Reserve with a professional Conservation Guide on a wildlife drive in a plush Range Rover, before soaking in the beauty of an Arabian sunset. Guests can expect to enjoy a tranquil camel ride to a charming oasis in the desert retreat where they will spend the rest of the evening in a private cabana beside the desert oasis.
Luxurious desert safari with a private car starting from £1,300 for two.
Stargazers visiting Dubai will enjoy the out of the world pop-up Starlight Camp. Nestled within a natural amphitheatre in the dazzling Arabian desert, the Starlight Camp never fails to amaze. Offering guests a peaceful getaway in a carefully chosen location amongst the golden dunes, it is equipped with a large crystal roof tent, chic lounge, warm bonfire, dining area, BBQ facility, as well as a food and beverage trailer.
Starlight Camp starting from £470 per night for two people.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the dunes and experience an unforgettable evening under the stars in a bespoke setup at the Nara Escape camp. Guests can tailor the private experiences to their preferences including creating their own menu with French Chef Franck Sanna, enjoying activities such as watching a fire show, a desert hike and yoga.
Experience Delicious Food
A new concept in Dubai has opened its doors for a belly of a classy chicken dinner. For a tariff of 5 JD per person, this dish will make you feel happy and satisfied. If you are looking for an upscale, luxury holiday that focuses on finer things like fine dining and mountain sledding, then Dubai will certainly fit the bill perfectly.
For a little luxury while getting away from the holiday madness, Dubai is not only rated as one of the safest cities in the world but is also known for its scrumptious food.
Dubai offers an unlimited choice of fine dining restaurant experiences. Restaurants showcasing the best of both international and local cuisine.
It has many restaurants that offer delicious food for a reasonable price. Whether you are looking for fine dining or just want to indulge in your favorite meals to celebrate being in Dubai, there are plenty in the city to choose from.
Nara Escape camp starting from £118 per person.
Nara Escape camp starting from £118 per person.
Iconic experiences:
Visitors to Dubai can indulge in one of the most luxurious and exclusive experiences available by taking a Dubai seaplane charter that offers panoramic views of the city. This private tour with Seawings has plenty of room and large private viewing windows, allowing guests to have uninterrupted views over the city, desert, and sea.
Seawings charter starting from £2,606.
For holidaymakers wanting to make the most of the crystal blue Arabian Gulf, Dubai offers a charter yacht and crew service for guests to cruise out of the Dubai Marina. Guests can relish in delectable refreshments and dine onboard. There is no better way to spend a luxurious day in Dubai than on the water.
EDEN Yachting prices available upon request.
Dubai takes luxurious spas to whole new level. Talise Ottoman Spa at the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray offers visitors an abundance of luxurious services in a stunning setting , leaving guests more refreshed then ever.
Prices dependent on services desired.
Those looking to travel in style can hire a private plane to Dubai with Air Charter Service from £7,910 on an eight-seater 500 Super Midsized jet. With the option of private jets, executive airline charters and group charters, there are plenty of luxurious options to land in Dubai.
For more information about planning a holiday to Dubai visit www.visitdubai.com
LA does roof top bars like no other city. A combination of warm balmy nights and Instagrammable views of the Los Angeles skyline make it the perfect place to take in dreamy, tangerine sunsets and cocktails.
Here at House of Coco, we’ve sussed out the best bars for sky-high views, delicious drinks, good tunes and a sprinkle of that cool Cali-vibe.
Skybar at the Mondrian, West Hollywood
If you are looking for that hip, Hollywood glamour then the Skybar at the Mondrian is the place to visit. During the day it’s a chic poolside lounge, perfect for soaking up some rays and relaxing and, at night, it turns into one of the hottest party spots in LA. World-class DJs pump out the tunes while guests hang out sipping on champagne, signature cocktails, spirits and beers. Boasting some of the finest views of the city, this popular rooftop bar is the place to be seen; so, dress to impress.
Hot tip: If you aren’t staying at the Mondrian, arrive after 1pm when the bar opens to the public.
Mama Shelter, Hollywood
Take in the sweeping views of Hollywood at this casual, chilled rooftop bar. Settle down on one of the bright, cosy sofas and sample the rustic, home-cooked food. Think baby back ribs that just drop off the bone and home-made cookies; just like mama would bake. This is a great venue to meet up with friends, grab a bite to eat, sample a cocktail from their infamous Moscow Mule menu, lounge on the day beds or have a go at the table games and foosball.
Hot tip: Mama’s has a first come, first served policy so try and get there early in the evening.
Above SIXTY, Beverly Hills
Located on the rooftop of the SIXTY Beverly Hills, Above SIXTY was named LA’s best rooftop al fresco bar and restaurant. With an extensive bar and 360 views of the city, it’s easy to see why. There’s a contemporary and stylish split-level terrace; the lower has a bar and lounge seating while the roof terrace has a pool, lounge areas and cabanas. This is a great spot for brunch on a weekend or, if you are looking to hang with the cool crowd, reserve your table for sundowners.
Hot Tip: A great place if you are looking to splurge.
Upstairs Bar at Ace Hotel, Downtown
The Upstairs Bar at the Ace has it all; DJ sets, live music, splendid drinks, book release parties and rooftop yoga. With stunning views of the city, this bar has definitely upped the rooftop game. It’s more than just a bar, it’s a great social space that offers a daily line up of events.
Hot tip: Check out their website before you visit, as there are lots of different events on each night.
High Rooftop Lounge at Erwin Hotel, Santa Monica
As the only rooftop bar in Venice Beach, you can count on epic sunset views year-round. The vibe here during the day is laid back, with 360 views that take in Muscle Beach, Catalina Island, Malibu, Downtown LA and the Hollywood Hills. When the sun goes down, the energy goes up a notch as the hip crowd dance around the glass fire pits, while the guest DJs spin out the beats.
Hot tip: Even if you are staying at the hotel, make a reservation as it gets busy.
Petit Ermitage, West Hollywood
You might well believe that you are in the Mediterranean, rather than Hollywood, when you arrive at Petit Ermitage. This beautiful boho bar is like an Italian secret garden. The pool and bar area is flanked with citrus trees, scattered with twinkly fairy lights. Sip on cocktails created by the Spirit Master in the Butterfly Bar and escape the ordinary. This Hollywood hideaway is humming with birds and butterflies. On an evening, step in the gypsy wagons and have your tarot cards read or snuggle under a blanket and watch an exclusive film premiere on the fire deck.
Hot Tip: This is guest-only, so you need to be staying at the hotel to get in.
Best known for its beautiful Caribbean beaches and all-year-round Summer, Aruba is a gem in the Caribbean islands, often forgotten when compared to the Bahamas and Bermuda. Affectionately dubbed the Island of Alternative Aruba, it offers a unique charm and allure that sets it apart from its more famous counterparts.
However, you only have to venture a short way from the beach to find many attractions and adventures to take part in. Whether it’s snorkelling, scuba, hiking, windsurfing, kitesurfing or paddleboarding, there is something for everyone on this action-packed and fun-filled island.
The Caribbean has for a long time been on my hit list of places to explore so when my boyfriend’s uncle and auntie moved out there a few years ago, I knew it was the perfect excuse to visit. Last summer I visited the island of Aruba with friends, for a week of fun-filled activities, food and new experiences.
Aruba, which is famous for its white sandy beaches, all-year sunshine and interesting history is the alternative destination for a million tourists, each year. The island is only 19.6 miles long and 6 miles across, with a total area of 70 square miles.
Unlike many other Caribbean islands, Aruba is below the hurricane belt so does not suffer dreadful weather and instead has a dryer climate without much rain at all. In the interior of the island, you’ll find a desert-like terrain and in Arikok National Park, with a variety of wildlife, cacti and rock formations.
How to get to Aruba
I travelled with KLM from Heathrow via Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam for six nights in the luxurious Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino. The flight took an hour to Amsterdam and then nine hours to Aruba, with a small stop at Bonaire, before landing at Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA).
Where to stay in Aruba
The hotel is situated in Oranjestad and is one of two hotels on the island under the same name, one which is a family hotel and one which is an adult-only hotel. I stayed within the adult-only hotel which boasts an array of amenities from the rooftop pool, restaurants, casino, spa, marina and much more.
As a guest of the hotel, you also have access to the beautiful Renaissance Aruba Private Island – a ten-minute speed boat ride from the hotel across the waters to a private island. This is where you can have your photo taken with the Instagram-famous family of flamingos. It’s a slice of Caribbean paradise.
Top Activities to do in Aruba
During the five-day stay, we indulged in great food and an array of activities. Some activities you can enjoy, include: Windsurfing The Windsurfing World Championships were happening during our stay, and it was wonderful to see both windsurfers and kite surfers whizzing across – and above – the water, like enormous seabirds.
Paddleboarding
My fellow travellers tried stand-up Paddle Boarding with Dennis Martinez of Aruba Surf and Paddle School and did very well, especially as a rainstorm hit just as they were getting into their stride!
Snorkelling
I’ve never seen so many colourful fish, except on the Great Barrier Reef, as we did on the reefs near Baby Beach, Aruba. It was astonishing to see so many beautiful fish, coloured in pink and purple hues with lime green and yellow stripes. There is also an opportunity to snorkel on the Jolly Pirates Boat Trip.
4×4 Safari
One of the most popular ways to see the island is on a 4×4 Safari Tour; we booked the half-day Natural Pool Land-Rover Adventure with De Palm Tours. Travelling in convoy, from the north to the south of the island, we experienced many of the island’s highlights, including California Lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel, Wariruri Beach, Bushiribana Gold Mill and the ruins of Natural Bridge, before a breath-taking bumpy ride over the rocks and dunes of Arikok National Park to the Natural Pools.
Horseback Riding
Aruba’s geology means it is a great place for horseback riding. It offers a variety of exotic locations for adventurous visitors, from the challenging dunes to the desert-like plains that will make you feel like the star of your Western motion picture. Tours include The Gold Mine Ranch, RanchoDaimari, Rancho La Ponderosa and Rancho Loco.
I thoroughly enjoyed exploring this beautiful island. From snacks at traditional beach shacks and staring across the ocean from the lighthouse to snorkelling at Baby Beach, awe-struck by fish hiding in the coral reefs.
Looking for the ideal romantic getaway? Check out our guide on the “Top 6 Locations for a Perfect Romantic Tropical Vacation” on House of Coco for some dreamy destinations to escape with your loved one.
I will be back very soon and cannot wait to explore more of this incredibly vibrant and exciting country.
Tips from a Local
Amelie – local living in Aruba
“When visiting Aruba, go off the tourist trail and do as the locals do. At weekends we get our families together and often head to Zeerovers in the fishermen’s town of Savaneta, for some fresh fish dishes, delivered from sea to plate within a few hours.
The food is amazing here with fresh fried fish and shrimp with side orders of fried plantain and pan bati. Everything is served to you in a basket as you sit on the dock overlooking the water.
If you are with family, head inland and explore Arikok National Park or the Donkey Sanctuary. And if you are after a beach day with the locals, we all head to Baby Beach. Located in the southern part of Aruba, close to San Nicolas, it’s a true Caribbean beach paradise.
The shallow waters make it a prime beach destination for snorkelling. For a real Aruba, experience have a BBQ on the beach or visit the beachside café!”
Freddie and I were the first ones to see them. Our driver for our West Texas girls’ trip and self-proclaimed protector, Freddie, had given us a ride out to the eerie, but architecturally beautiful viewing area a few miles out of town with nothing around but arid, flat desert. ‘The Marfa Mystery Lights’ we’d all scoffed, swapping tales of UFOs over tequila cocktails and sumptuous sharing plates in female chef-run restaurant of the moment Cochineal in town. But out here, in the fresh air of the desert with its vast skies, those mystery lights started appearing near the blinking post way into the distance. Floating, multiplying, bouncing off each other, those lights had us swear in disbelief—then it entranced us. Breaking out of the spell, we all reached for our phones, but curiously, all the footage of that night is pitch black with only the sound of our nervous laughter calling out for Mulder and Scully…
We arrived from the UK into Lubbock in a lightning storm – a freaky way to start any road trip, the baggage handlers forbidden to go outside to claim our luggage due to the risk to human life – when we’d just landed in it, in a tin can with wings. Back home, everyone I spoke to (Americans included) laughed when I mentioned our starting point, unable to see past the obvious Texan attractions to a European audience. In truth, stood in the desolate baggage claim area of Lubbock airport, the sky being lit up every 30 seconds, clutching tourist board leaflets, I began to question it myself. However, the morning after, the storm had cleared enough that we could take in the city.
Lubbock is most commonly known as the birthplace of rock n’ roll legend Buddy Holly, and an Instagram shot next to his super-sized glasses by his bandmate’s childhood home and museum is a no brainer. It takes a little more research to get under the skin of the city itself. On paper, Lubbock is an industry town – the largest contiguous cotton-growing region in the world and that gives you all the traps of industrial success. What’s unexpected is the university Texas Tech’s beautiful campus sprinkled with outdoor public art and the burgeoning indie art scene in the Art District which hosts the First Friday Art Trail. Artist studios in containers are open to the public, and you can get your hands dirty in screen printing workshops. We visit the day after the event and the workshops floors are strewn with paper cuttings, and tables are laden with half-painted, awe-inspiring papier mâché heads. Next time.
Walking further into the Depot District of Lubbock we were met by an entrepreneurial couple who will from now on be my #couplegoals reference point; Kim and Sylvia McPherson. Between the two, they run McPherson Cellars, a winery and tasting room housed in a lovingly restored 1930’s Coca-Cola bottling plant and La Diosa Cellars, a fantastically opulent den of tapas and sangria created by Sylvia’s designer eye for detail. A few wines later, riled up by lively conversation and delicious small plates, all of us decamp next door to a rowdy college bar with Kim, who has been making wine since 1979, getting in the first round of shooters and Sylvia encouraging salsa dancing to Daddy Yankee. #CoupleGoals.
For a city that people laughed at, Lubbock had a lot to keep us entertained. And with the $154m Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences opening in 2020, expect to hear a lot more about the Hub City, but remember: you heard it here first.
From Lubbock, we drove out to Palo Duro Canyon Park , the second largest canyon in the USA after the Grand one. The park is magnificent, with deep red rocks, trails to explore and adorable stone-clad cabins you can book for the night to toast your marshmallows over a fire, and stargaze to your heart’s content. We arrived in the rain with the damp earth kicking off the delicious scent of undergrowth and wild leaves. As we hiked, the mist lifted with stunning views of the canyon’s iconic lighthouse formation. To get to Palo Duro from Lubbock, you have to take the way to Amarillo (not even joking) which saw us all leaping for our cameras whenever we went past signage – and you can also take in another fascinating local formation: Cadillac Ranch. A collaborative art installation from the late 70s, Cadillac Ranch is another worldly sight of 10 rusted, spray paint-covered Cadillacs, nose down in the dirt off the highway. Originally created by a local millionaire and a renegade art collective named The Ant Farm, the sculpture commemorates the Golden Age of the automobile and is forever changing and morphing, as bringing your own paint can to add a message or a splash of colour is actively encouraged.
From the big city, to the wide open skies of Big Bend Country; a five-hour drive takes us from Lubbock’s cotton fields, through the eerie plains of nodding oil donkeys and gas flares around Midland to the shocking blue skies of the high desert. A stop at Midland Park Mall doesn’t go unappreciated as we steel ourselves for the hipster climes of Marfa. A bottle of Elizabeth & James perfume would have to do to summon that Mary-Kate and Ashley-style bohemian glamour.
Arriving into Marfa, the Instagram honeytrap that it is, was curious and a little underwhelming. Prada Marfa, the poster child for the town, as seen on many people’s feed – not to mention Beyoncé’s – is in fact out of town in the adorably named Valentine. A little like my current hometown of Margate in the UK, Marfa is a weekender town, so arriving on a Monday is a little like creeping round your friend’s house when they had a heavy one last night, and you were just there for the snacks. The town is engulfed – and was perhaps put on the map – by artist Donald Judd who moved his work to the town in the 70s. The combination of the picturesque downtown and Judd’s multiple venue artworks such as The Block, which includes his vast library collection of 13,000 books, gives the town an odd feeling of being overly curated, as if you are in a perfectly styled film set just waiting for the main characters to arrive on the railroad train, which cuts the town in half.
In addition to Marfa’s artistic legacy, the silver screen made its mark here as well. A visit to the quirky and endearing Marfa and Presidio Country Museum is much more indicative of the town than the high-end art gallery boutiques…the kind which are closed on weekdays and the proprietors are probably miles away in their NYC or LA homes. I chatted to the museum’s manager who didn’t bat an eyelid at our tales of the Marfa Lights sighting, nodding sagely and explaining that she’s always seen them, and even had one instance where family visited and were escorted back out of town with the lights bouncing gently on the roof of their car. Bouncing. On. The. Roof. Of. Their. Car. The museum is tiny and full of curios including film posters and behind the scenes photography featuring everyone from Daniel Day Lewis (There Will Be Blood) to James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor (Giant).
Crossing the railroad and heading in the direction of the pastel pink, Wes Anderson perfection of the Presidio County Courthouse, we came across our home for the night: the charming retro-tinged, Trost-designed Hotel Paisano. Fittingly, this was also home to James and Elizabeth while filming. Ask the hotel manager nicely and she’ll give you a tour of their rooms, the ballroom where they would meet to watch dailies on a projector and also dispel the myth that neither of them could dive from their rooms directly into the pool. These were the rock n’ roll days of the 50s, but not that rock n’ roll.
More modern-day rock n’ roll is the bohemian tepee campsite and retro caravan wonderland that is El Cosmico. In essence, it’s a design-centric community lodging concept dreamt up by hotelier Liz Lambert, the creative mind behind the predominantly Texan-based Bunkhouse Hotel group. To know that they run an annual Trans Pecos Festival of Music & Love will give you a feel for the bright, friendly-side-of-super-hipster site. We took in a tour of the various lodging options from the most basic, tastefully-decorated safari tents to the real stars of the show: the retro caravans painted in rainbow brights with striped South American shawl design bedspreads, and patios facing the stars. The site now also boasts an architecturally stunning micro-home made in collaboration with Kasita, Dutch wood-fired hottubs you can hire for the night, a hammock grove and a premium souvenir shop. I’m still not sure how I managed to leave.
For a tiny desert town, Marfa is not short of exceptional places to spend your hard-earned city money, and that really is its appeal; an escape from the bustle of city lights, three hours away from a major airport with vast skies that envelope you and reignite that feeling of wonder. For a full shopping and eating guide to the town for all your crystals ; vending machine tarot cards and tacos with a side order of intentionally bad service, needs head to our guide here.
It’s a sad fact that many will take the pilgrimage to Marfa and Marfa alone when coming to this part of the world. And to have travelled all that distance and to miss out on Alpine and Marathon, which are located within an hour’s drive of that hipster haven, would be a crime. We first headed to the tiny artist enclave of Marathon, first stopping to marvel – and giggle – at the Target Marathon, which mysteriously appeared overnight, a painted up hovel of a railroad outhouse, as a middle finger to the more famous – but equally ridiculous – Prada Marfa.
We arrived in town, if in fact Marathon is big enough to be considered a town, to another stunning Trostian building: the independently run The Gage Hotel . Following not long behind the late, great Anthony Bourdain, we dine in the White Buffalo Saloon hearing tales of local characters like Texan folk artist Chicken George and nearby border ghost towns such as Terlingua, which has a beer drinking goat for a mayor and retro RV lodging. The hotel has rooms within the main building, more classic in décor, and the property leads out past an inviting, sparkling kidney shaped pool to a shaded courtyard of rooms with adobe-look clad walls, cow hides and iridescent blue-tiled rainfall showers. You could tell we were close to the Mexican Border, and also in the #1 rated hotel in Texas (according to Condé Nast readers).
Dawn was startling, transforming the pitch black desert floor with the sound of bird song and warming peachy light. I’m never an early bird, but dawn in Big Bend Country shook me from my slumber and begged me to step outside to discover a sleeping ghost town, desperate to be explored. Away from the historic glamour of The Gage Hotel, we got lost in the hand-built, colourful dream world of Eve’s Garden B&B. An organic B&B and ecological resource centre, with Mexico-inspired blue and orange adobe guest rooms and a rooftop reminiscent of Gaudi’s La Pedrera, they serve a mean family-style ricotta pancake breakfast, with syrup and fresh berries falling from each mouthful.
Reluctantly, we leave Marathon for our final destination, Alpine, which we’d skirted around on the drive down. Alpine is the largest of the three towns in Big Bend Country that we visited and home to Sul Ross State University. I was apprehensive as to the charm it would hold, and what a fool I was. Coming into town, one of the best places to start is a short hike behind the university to look out spot ‘The Desk’ on Hancock Hill. Back in the early 80s a group of students hauled a school desk up to this spot – it’s since become an icon and a spot to leave your thoughts. From here you can take in the town and read fine literature left in notebooks in the desk such as: I’m Back, Bitches – Bailey 2016. The university also houses the Museum of The Big Bend (museumofthebigbend.com) showcasing local history, including a stunning recreation of Native American Indian rock art – the original site is deep in the desert and kept a secret. In a curious twist of fate, we end up speaking with a woman involved in the discovery and preservation of that important piece, and she is casually working in a co-op art gallery downtown.
Downtown Alpine is liberally sprinkled with art galleries from local jewellers, modern pop art and more traditional Texan watercolours of landscapes and rugged cattle. This is a town driven by entrepreneurs who, against the odds of living in a far-flung space – or perhaps fuelled by it, have created an enclave of creativity. This is certainly true in the Boss Babes we come across in our wanders in this glorious town; from a paint-spattered boilersuit-wearing artist putting the finishing touches to hand lettering a new business shopfront a stone’s throw from a mural she completed recently, to Emily, founder of custom jeans business House of Pants from an outbuilding nestled behind the newly renovated Hotel Ritchey Wine Saloon and Beer Garden; lovingly brought back to life by another local female entrepreneur, Mattie Matthaei.
As night falls on our last night in West Texas, we enjoy sundowner wines brought on our road trip all the way from McPherson Winery in Lubbock on the rooftop patio of our room at historic The Holland Hotel . The sense of freedom and unbridled creativity, bordering on the absurd, can be tasted in the air out here in the high desert. A rescue dog just helped us check in at front desk (the hotel receptionists foster local dogs, helping them to find new homes, he didn’t work there, don’t worry) and the hotel is plastered with faux Harry Potter news clippings advertising an upcoming themed banquet. In town that evening, we chug red cups of local brews in delightfully divey Harry’s Tinaja and sing along to a karaoke soundtrack that swings from nu-metal to new country at infamous Rail Road Blues.
The sound of the railroad trains passing through town had now become a comforting sound in the dead of the desert night, and waking on the final morning, I wonder what passenger trains come through here. Turns out you can catch the Amtrak Texas Eagle all the way from Los Angeles out to these parts right through to Chicago. The full trip would take one day and 19 hours. Plenty of time to cook up a new creative business – or five – to run from West Texas.
The world’s largest airline, American Airlines, operates daily flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Lubbock (LBB) and Midland (MAF) via its hub in Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW). Fly from £829 in Basic Economy, from £889 in the Main Cabin, from £1,218 in American’s new Premium Economy product and from £3,841 in Business Class, all prices are based on return flights, per person, and include taxes. americanairlines.co.uk
Before you set off on your adventure, enjoy a stylish departure from the No1 Lounge at Heathrow, T3 – offering an unrivalled range of services, including spa treatments and pod bedrooms, the award-winning No1 allows you to take control of your pre-flight experience. Entry is £32pp & when booked in advance at no1lounges.com.
As a team whose lives revolve around international time zones and airport departure times, living in lockdown has been like having our arms chopped off. Of course, we’re grateful for our health, and we’ve definitely been keeping busy, but as soon as the opportunity came to get back in the air, we threw ourselves at it with full force.
The removal of quarantine rules has meant that summer holiday destinations are up for grabs once more, with a lot of countries encouraging you to go. While there will be many who are apprehensive at the thought of getting on an aircraft right now, as someone who has just done it, we can tell you that it’s absolutely fine.
First, pick your 2020 getaway destination. Check the quarantine restrictions that come with certain countries – France, Italy, Turkey, Greece, and most of the Caribbean, for example, are good choices because they’re part of the UK’s ‘travel corridors’ meaning there’s no need to self-isolate at either end. In true House of Coco style, we decided our first post-lockdown destination needed to be Ibiza. Because, why not?
London City Airport have upped their game with leisure routes for the summer to make it even easier for anyone, like us, who needed a well deserved break.
As expected, there have been a few minor adjustments to the terminal itself, but it’s nothing more than everyone has been used to after spending three months navigating the arrows around Tesco and vigorously sanitising our hands into a slow burn.
The main difference is, you need to wear a face covering in the airport and for the duration of the flight. But no biggie, we have to do that on all public transport in the UK too. The fabulous and very helpful airport staff (who are all donned in masks and gloves) are also adhering to much more stringent safety procedures, but that can only ever be a good thing. Plus, if you’ve ever been pushed or shoved in a busy airport crowd, you’ll be happy to know social distancing rules apply and crowd monitoring is in operation to make sure things don’t get too busy.
Basically, it’s the same as normal apart from cleaner and quieter – and ain’t nobody mad about that.
Arriving in Ibiza felt no different to any of the countless other times we have been. It was refreshing and exciting, and with three months without any of that sweet Balearic sunshine, it was a relief. Yes there are a couple of extra measures when you land, too. You’ll need to provide some contact info (I mean, you literally have to do this in any Wetherspoons right now), have a temperature check and undergo a visual health check – it’s all very easy. Look at it this way, if you’re looking back on your trip and the thing you remember is filling in a form, chances are you’ve had a really shit vacation.
Now for the fun bit. Actually being on holiday.
The Spanish government have said that face coverings are needed in public spaces unless you’re on the beach or sitting in a restaurant. Lucky for us, that’s exactly what we intended on doing.
Of course, you could go the whole way and not even need to leave your hotel like many choose to do. Ibiza Town has some of the best hotels on the island – the Hotel Torre del Mar being one of them. I would have filled in more than a few airport forms to be sipping cocktails and relaxing in one of their sunken pool sunbeds.
Sitting outside the Restaurant Formentera overlooking the Ibiza Town harbour, washing paella down with Sangria, it occurred to us that, even with a few restrictions here and there, for many this is actually the perfect time for a quick getaway. Ibiza, for example, is off-putting for those wanting to avoid big groups of party teens, and with the clubs forgoing the 2020 season, now is definitely the time to go.
There was a time when Ibiza was known for quiet contemplation. A time before 18-30 package deals and Instagram selfies, when the island was that original bohemian chillout destination. Many institutions are embracing this slow-down culture and channeling the old normal – and we are so here for it.
While you may have seen this epic location in the James Bond remake, Casino Royale starring Daniel Craig, Nassau, Bahamas, is known for a lot more. It’s a fascinating and unique junkanoo culture, breathtaking beaches, and remarkable resorts are the highlights of the location.
Perhaps the most prominent tourist attraction in Nassau is its relaxing beaches. Furthermore, Nassau is a very budget-friendly destination as well, of course, if you don’t stay at a resort. The beaches are free for everyone to enjoy.
Therefore, here are the six amazing free and public beaches in Nassau that you can’t afford to miss. If you are in the Bahamas, you must take some time to enjoy these excellent spots. So, could you keep reading to check them out?
Cabbage Beach:
The almost two miles of white sand coastline of the beautiful Cabbage beach is quite impressive; however, this beach is notorious for being severely overcrowded, mainly because there are several nearby resorts and hotels. Yet, if you go there by taxi, the driver will know where to drop you for the public access entry.
There is a lot to do on this beach, you can meet different people from all over the world, or you can also rent some amazing water sports gear like jet-skis, and paddling boats to have a fun time with your friends.
Cabbage beach is also a good spot for surfing, or just tanning in the sun, with your partner. If you aren’t bothered by a bit of a crowd or enjoy meeting new people, visit Cabbage beach while you are in Nassau.
Cable Beach:
If you thought the last beach was crowded, this one has five resorts surrounding it; however, I don’t see it as negative. If you want an intimate and secluded spot, this beach might not be for you, but if you like to party and have an excellent time, cable beach has a lot to offer.
You can pay a small fee to use the pools and other amenities of the resorts, or you can also stick to the ocean if you don’t want to spend some extra cash. Another advantage of having these resorts near the beach is that you can always find some delicious food. You can get anything you want from the resort restaurants, or you can even enjoy some authentic local cuisine from the various street vendors on the beach. When it comes to dining, you will have a lot of options on Cable beach.
There is also a wide array of watersports and beach activities you can participate in, or you could find a nice spot to relax, enjoy the ocean, and get a nice tan.
If you want a less crowded and more personal space, where you don’t have to worry about loads of strangers, you can look into getting private islands in the Bahamas.
Junkanoo Beach:
Located close to downtown Nassau, Junkanoo Beach is one of the most accessible beaches in the area. Unlike the last two spots, Junkanoo Beach is significantly smaller and a lot less crowded, unless you are visiting during spring break, when this beach is as popular as any other.
Another factor that sets this beach apart from the others is the existence of proper public bathrooms and a changing area, which is quite rare in most of the Bahamas Beaches.
So, if you want a less crowded place, check out Junkanoo Beach; however, it will not have all the resorts and activities that other beaches have.
Love Beach:
As the name suggests, this beach is the perfect spot for a romantic date with your partner. Keep in mind that this is a locals-only beach, but since it is mostly empty, no one will stop you from visiting it, make sure that you are respectful of the locals when you visit the beach.
This means that you probably shouldn’t take your Bluetooth Speakers with you to play some loud music and have a party.
The beach is located on the northern shore of Nassau, past a village called Gambier. You will need to do a considerable hike, about nine miles to be accurate to get to this beach, but trust me, it is one of the most romantic and amazing spots. And you can also have a sensational snorkeling experience on this beach.
Western Esplanade:
This is another small beach located close to Cable Beach; it is the perfect destination for you if you want to relax and enjoy the amazing local foods. This is also a very common spot for fundraising cookouts, and you are always welcome to take part in the effort.
This is an excellent beach for people who don’t like heavy clouds but still want to have all the foods available at Cable beach; however, keep in mind that since this is a small beach, there aren’t any public facilities like restrooms and changing areas.
Saunders Beach:
Saunders Beach is also located close to Cable beach, but it is designed specifically for families. You won’t find any raging spring break parties over here; instead, there are several safe swim areas and swings for kids to enjoy.
The beach has a nice parking area so there will be no problem with parking your transport, and it is properly lit. Restrooms, showers, and changing areas are also accessible on this excellent and small family beach. Therefore, if you are traveling with your family and want to have a great time with the kids, Saunders beach is the spot for you.
Final thoughts:
Nassau is one of the best destinations in the Bahamas, especially when talking about amazing beaches. This small location has several beaches for every type of person. Whether you want to enjoy a fantastic spring break party, have a romantic evening with your partner, have fun with your kids or go there by yourself to have some me time, the Beaches of Nassau will not disappoint. Therefore, don’t miss out on the spots mentioned in this post.
Travel has undeniably been one of the hardest-hit communities during the pandemic crisis. Now that we’re finally seeing the light at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel — and with the UK announcing the list of ‘air bridge countries’ in Europe and beyond — here’s a roundup of all #TeamCoco’s favourite hotels that have reopened their doors this month, safer and better than ever.
Don’t be fooled, this isn’t some lush tropical oasis in the middle of Bali, but instead the Jurema Terrace at The Mandrake London. From its famous glasshouse-inspired courtyard to the lavish jewel colours and golds swirling throughout its interiors; the Mandrake offers an artistic escape from the city beyond the walls — and escaping is just where it starts. The journey begins at the reception and you’ll definitely be feeling a sense of creative wonder right up until the minute you leave. Undoubtedly, The Mandrake offers a multi-sensory experience unlike anything else on the scene, and the great news is – it reopened its doors this month.
This handsome boutique hotel has certainly inspired some last-minute staycations this summer. The Dixon may have been named after its Edwardian Architect, but everything else about it is as contemporary as it gets. Part of The Autograph Collection, the Dixon occupies a former Magistrate’s Court and has a unique aesthetic that blends old and new. Think wood panelled interiors, contemporary art, and a stunning entrance hall. With 193 rooms, a stunning restaurant, and the wealth of Southbank’s cultural scene within reach, we’ll soon be booking our staycations at The Dixon too.
The Treehouse Hotel London — ‘little brother’ of 1 Hotels, — reopened on 4th July and is the perfect spot to book your next staycation. This sustainable gem is now offering a new wellness programme and revamped safety and hygiene measures which include Liberty-print face masks, created by Sheila Wright Akinsete. The hotel’s eclectic rooftop bar, The Nest, has also reopened its spacious terrace, and is the perfect Friday night spot for some socially-distanced cocktails while watching the sun set over London. Not to mention, the Cali-Mexican restaurant Madera and ground floor coffee shop Backyard have also reopened their doors, equipped with new al fresco and in-app ordering systems too.
Maslina Resort is a brand-new Relais & Chateaux property that combines luxe living with impeccable eco-credentials. The hotel is set to open in August and has already been selected to become a member of eco and sustainable tourism company, Green Pearls.
Maslina is located on the idyllic Maslina bay in Hvar Croatia and boasts a suite of mindful and holistic activities. From the kitchen’s locally-sourced Michelin-star menu to the hotel’s ‘garden-to-skin’ beauty ethos, everything at the Maslina Resort brings you closer to nature, which is exactly the kind of luxury escape we’re dreaming about to beat the lockdown blues.
The palatial Anantara Villa Padierna reopened its doors in the beginning of July, and we already can’t wait to hop on a plane to Spain. To celebrate its reopening, the hotel has launched a wanderlust-inducing three-night package which includes a three night-stay in a Junior suite, a 60-minute massage, flamenco lessons, and a traditional tapas dinner in Marbella old town.
The Anantara Villa Padierna Palace was designed by renowned British architect Ed Gilbert in 2003. Each luxury room in the breath-taking hotel was individually designed. Over 1,200 priceless works of art are displayed all over the property which also has a large swimming pool surrounded by manicured gardens, so you can lounge like a true Spanish princess.
This stunning 17-bedroom Relais & Chateaux hotel is nestled in Scotland’s majestic Ayrshire coast. The castle features boasts 110 acres of picturesque Scottish countryside, perfect for long walks with plenty of physical distancing.
There are plenty of activities to lose yourself in at Glenapp Castle including perfume making, archery, clay pigeon shooting, and even tank driving. The highlight is the bespoke Hebridean Safari, which takes guests on a four night adventure getting up close and personal with Sottish wildlife. The hotel is reopening tomorrow (15 July) equipped with a new ‘Stay Safe’ policy to ensure that guests can rest assured that they can enjoy their stay in Glenapp Castle safely.
The Roseate London is a handsome mid-century Grade-II listed townhouse that reopened on the 6th of July. The hotel — which was originally built in 1842 — has been restored to its original Victorian style featuring classic furnishings and oil paintings originally created in a bygone era. The hotel is just a short walk away from Hyde Park, which makes it the ideal spot for a sunny walk and some afternoon tea at the Hyde Restaurant, which is probably the perfect place to splash out for a post-lockdown treat.
Grand Hotel Dei Dogi, The Dedica Anthology, is a noble Venetian palace that exudes old world luxury. While the hotel is just twenty minutes from St. Mark’s square, it is an intimate oasis covered with private gardens, opulently decorated rooms, and plenty of grandeur.
The hotel’s new contemporary La Voga bar is also the perfect spot to indulge in a bit of local cuisine and enjoy a cocktail canalside. The hotel features 64 luxurious suites boasting high ceilings and garden views, offering a curated palazzo experience that’s certainly fit for royalty.
The Longevity Cegonha Country Club reopened on the 4th of July and is the perfect place destress, relax and get back in touch with nature. The hotel is offering a ‘Feel De-Stressed and Rebalanced Package’ which includes guided meditation, healing therapy, balance therapy, massages, reiki and even a floatation session. How soon can we book a flight to Portugal?
Located in the Quinta do Lago, the Magnolia Hotel is a mid-century paradise that is absolutely brimming with personality. The hotel opened in the beginning of July and even launched the Algarve’s only poolside open-air cinema, perfect for sipping Pina Coladas and spending an afternoon soaked in the sun.
