Whilst jumping on a flight for a bit of escapism might not be quite as easy as it used to be, we’re excited about the prospect of exploring more of what the UK has to offer. From visiting London without the crowds and complimentary hotel upgrades, to spotting basking sharks and minke whales in Scotland, the year of the staycation is all about finding an adventure in the best of what the UK has to offer…
Cornwall
Why? To surf the waves at one of Cornwall’s most sought after beaches
Unsurprisingly, Cornwall, with its open spaces and beautiful beaches, tops the table for one of the most sought after destinations to visit post lockdown. Located by the iconic Tate St Ives building, Porthmeor is a safe and sandy beach, popular with surfers and swimmers and just a stone’s throw from the centre of St Ives where there are ancient pubs, charming cafes and lots of art galleries for which this town is famous for. Porthmeor beach is less crowded in late summer and autumn time and is the ideal location to hit the water with a surfboard.
Where to stay?
With direct access to this stunning beach, Coxswain’s Cottage is delightfully unassuming, whilst its interiors are unique, design-led and impeccably finished. The three bedrooms and three bathrooms (two of which are en-suite) are all wonderfully comfortable for a property of this size, with the large bathroom also converting into a decadent steam room, ideal for warming up after a plunge in the Cornish sea. What’s more, Coxswain’s Cottage has a secret tunnel leading straight onto Porthmeor beach and is right on the cobbled streets of St Ives – there are endless activities/restaurants/scenic sights in St Ives to explore.
Why? With footfall down 40-50% (Visit Bath) now is the time to visit this beautiful World Heritage city
Built for pleasure and relaxation, Bath has been a wellbeing destination since Roman times, and there’s no better time than now to discover this beautiful city with World Heritage status. With footfall into the city currently down by between 40-50% and yet plenty of Baths’ sites and lovely independent shops and eateries still open, and the stunning, surrounding Somerset countryside in full summer glory, now is an excellent time to book a staycation to the city. Visitors can also enjoy a visit to the Roman Baths, which are currently operating at only 30% (Visit Bath) capacity owing to the lack of international tourists.
Where to stay?
Overlooking the peaceful Henrietta Park, famed for its beautiful blossom trees and minutes walk from the heart of Bath, Roseate Villa Bath is a boutique hotel encompassing two converted Victorian houses, brimming with characterful legacy. With just 21 rooms and suites, Roseate Villa Bath is a home away from home. A visit to the hotel’s new Henrietta Bar is not to be missed. Roseate Villa Bath’s Afternoon Tea On Us exclusive offer includes a complimentary afternoon tea experience when booking a Superior Garden View Room between Sunday – Friday.
HOW: From £150 per night, Roseate House London’s Afternoon Tea On Us exclusive offer is available on bookings between Sunday – Friday and includes a delicious afternoon tea experience and overnight stay in a Superior Garden View Room – https://www.roseatehotels.com/bath/theroseatevilla/
Scotland
Why? For the chance to spot basking sharks, minke whales, seals, and puffins and to immerse in complete isolation
The south-west of Scotland, and indeed Ayrshire, is renowned for its majestic countryside and incredible wildlife. The famous volcanic outcrop of Ailsa Craig is not only one of the most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries; home to over 40,000 birds, including puffins, guillemots and razorbills, but the Ayrshire waters are also teeming with marine life with basking sharks, dolphins, minke whales, and seals. With a newfound appreciation for nature and a desire for complete isolation, it comes as no surprise that Scotland is high up on the agenda for travellers.
Where to stay?
Stay at Glenapp Castle, a 17-bedroom luxurious Relais & Chateaux hotel tucked away on the breath-taking Ayrshire coast, Scotland. Glenapp Castle offers a unique Hebridean Sea Safari experience giving nature lovers a four night adventure exploring the Scottish isles in true style. This exciting and unique offering means that you don’t have to travel the world in search of incredible wildlife and adventure but instead travel a matter of hours to the south-west coast of Scotland for the ultimate UK staycation.
HOW: Stay in one of Glenapp Castle’s Garden View Suites from £415 and experience the Sea Safari from £2,950 per person, based on 7-8 people sharing on a full-board basis for 4 nights including 2 nights at Glenapp and 2 nights with the boat/Glenapp Camp. For further details, including information on bespoke trips, please see here. www.glenappcastle.com / 01465 831 212
London
Why? For complimentary room upgrades and to experience London’s restaurants, sights and parks without the crowds
Usually one of Europe’s most crowded cities, London is having a moment to breath. With a lack of international tourists and office workers confined to working from home, visitors can virtually enjoy having the city to themselves. Whilst London’s great cultural attractions are slowly coming back to life including the recent reopenings of The National Gallery and Tate Modern and many of Soho’s wonderful restaurants and drinking holes are also once again operating with all necessary precautions in place and the Royal Parks are at their summertime best, now is a perfect time to visit the city without the usual hordes.
Where to stay?
Roseate House London is a Grade-II listed townhouse featuring 48 luxurious rooms and suites, located on Westbourne Terrace, overlooking Hyde Park. The hotel is ideally located, minutes from Marble Arch, making London’s best cultural sites and entertainment in easy reach. Roseate House London is offering guests, 10% off published rates, complimentary room upgrades and additional benefits when booking a stay directly with the hotel.
HOW: Roseate House London’s Book Direct exclusive offer gives guests 10% off published rates when booking directly. The rate includes a complimentary room upgrade, welcome drink, early check in and late check out and 15% off F&B and laundry. Rates start from £109 per night – https://www.roseatehotels.com/london/roseatehouse/
With eclectic vibes and a flourish of boho, welcome to the coolest new opening on the White Isle.
As we slowly unfurl from months of lockdown, many of us are hankering for a seriously relaxing break. White sand, drink in hand, the slow rhythm of a steady island beat, and a short flight away, Ibiza is the ideal destination for those in need of some sunshine sanctuary. Fortunately for us, W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott International, has recently opened their newest offering on the beautiful island of Ibiza. The hotel brings the W brand’s distinctive energy, Whatever/Whenever® service philosophy and upbeat programming to the Balearic Islands. Located on the beachfront of Santa Eulalia, the resort will provide guests with direct access to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.
W Ibiza embraces the island’s eclectic roots through bold and innovative design, capturing the free spirit of Ibiza whilst elevating the island experience to a new level. The main WET Deck (the brand’s signature take on the poolside scene) has direct access to the beachfront promenade and the white sands of Santa Eulalia beach, which guests can enjoy from W Ibiza’s very own Chiringuito Blue, W Hotels’ version of the traditional beach bars of Ibiza.
La Llama is the spot for breakfast, while Ve Café offers an array of vegetarian and vegan options centered around light, healthy food served in bowls. W Lounge serves food and drinks all day long, allowing guests to relax in swinging couches or chilling to lounge music late in the evening.
The 162 design-led guestrooms and suites bring a new level of eclectic luxury to the Isle, with beloved W comforts to ensure guests are fully recharged for the night ahead. All rooms offer the signature W Bed, plush bedding, and dream-easy pillows and scatter cushions. To detox from a day in the sun, guests can enjoy the spacious 4,000 square foot AWAY Spa with six private treatment rooms and the brand’s signature FIT gym experience. Perfect for some post-lockdown pampering.
With the brand’s iconic Whatever/Whenever® service available 24/7, and the clued-in W Insider on hand to grant access to the hot-spots nobody knows about, guests will be able to have whatever they want, whenever they want it.
To celebrate W Ibiza’s Summer 2020 opening, guests can take advantage of the Welcome Back promotion, which offers Marriott Bonvoy members 25% off room rates, including complimentary breakfast until 30 September. To find out more or to book your stay, visit WIbiza.com.
When figuring out what pants to wear for a cold-weather hiking adventure, you should keep in mind the main goals of winter hiking gear. These goals are to keep you dry, maintain warmth, and keep you comfortable on the go.
While it’s easy enough to assess that you’ll be needing a wicking base layer and waterproof outer shell, finding out what kind of pants can power your legs across a trail may require a bit more thinking.
What Not to Pick
First, you must stay away from pairs that are too bulky or heavy since they can slow you down considerably. These pants could pose a lot of trouble, especially when you’re climbing up a steep trail.
Second, never choose just one pair since that won’t give you sufficient protection. At the very least, you should have two layers, namely the base and outer layer, when hiking in temperature below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The inner layer should have excellent wicking properties, while the outer shell should be water-resistant.
Lastly, if you expect to do some off-trail hiking, never choose pants that are lacking in durability. A pair that’s a bit too delicate or flimsy may not end up surviving the activity.
The Ideal Pair of Winter Hiking Pants
In your efforts to have comfortable hiking clothes, you must focus on finding a pair of hiking pants that offer lightness, comfort, and warmth. Also, consider bringing a pair of softshell, water-resistant pants in your pack in case you get a winter rain surprise.
The below sections will cover essential layering techniques for winter and some of the best styles of cold-weather hiking pants today’s market offers.
How to Layer Your Pants for a Winter Hike
As far as pants layering is concerned, you need to remember that it’s not just keeping warm that’s important but also keeping dry. You must also factor in snow, rain, and your own sweat into the equation. Lastly, there is no such thing as too many layers because you can always remove them when the situation calls for it.
Here’s how layering works:
First Layer: This is the base layer that sits right next to your skin. When choosing a pair of pants for this particular layer, make sure it has excellent wicking properties and keeps moisture from settling on your skin.
Second Layer: The layer positioned right above the first should be mid-weight and have insulating qualities. A good pair for this specific layer should be made of fleece, or at the very least, composed of a fabric that has a “puffy” quality.
Third Layer: This layer is known as the weatherproof shell and protects the rest of your garment layers from the elements. It should be soft, light, and not too heavy, but also be durable at the same time.
Depending on how cold it is, you can have a fourth layer on standby inside your backpack or worn over the third layer as you begin your hike. You can add or remove layers as the weather changes.
The Right Fit
In order to get the layering right, you must choose layers that fit you perfectly. That means, first, your base layer should be exactly your size and should fit you naturally. Your middle layer should be slightly bigger to take into account the size of the first layer. Finally, your outer layer should be even larger because it needs to cover the two layers underneath.
How each layer fits you will affect the overall fit of your winter pants. Thus, make sure there’s a bit of leeway when it comes to space for you to move comfortably in them.
Winter Hiking Pants Options
Depending on what other activities you plan on doing during your hike, you can choose from either of these pants options: cross-country skiing pants, snowshoeing pants, or insulated hiking pants.
To be honest, if you’re going on a cold-weather hike, whichever of these pairs of pants you choose won’t make much difference. The first two options may have a tighter fit and are better-designed for the activities they’re named after, but they make excellent purely-hiking pants. The latter, of course, with its looser fitting and rugged style is best suited for cold-weather hiking and can maintain comfort regardless of the length of your trail.
The Winter Hiking Pants for You
Once you are aware of the best options in the market, the next decision will come down to personal style and preference. When it comes to this, ask yourself what else you’re planning to do on your hike, how long you think your hike will be, and how cold you expect the temperature to get. You must also remember that your first layer should have great wicking properties, your middle layer should be insulating, and the outermost layer should be waterproof, light, and durable.
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.
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
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.
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.
