Travel - House Of Coco Magazine

Coco Couples February 12, 2020

Love is in the air – ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in London

Valentine’s Day has come around yet again and if you’re stuck for ideas for how to celebrate the romantic day in London, we’ve got you covered. From drinks to dinner to spa treatments – here’s all the options. And who’s to say it has to be with your significant other? Celebrate Valentine’s Day with whoever your special someone might be – Galentine’s, family – anyone you want.

Boundary London

Celebrate Valentine’s Day this year at Boundary London and indulge in a special four-course meal while you and your special someone take in the stunning views of London’s skyline. In the heart of Shoreditch, enjoy this romantic dinner in the rooftop’s indoor dining room, Orangery, which is available exclusively on 14th February. The highlight? The sharing dessert – a passionfruit tart with chocolate ganache, rhubarb and crème fraîche; it’s even decorated with edible flowers.

Priced at £75 per person

Hilton London Bankside

Enjoy the romantic celebration of Valentine’s Day at London’s Hilton Bankside . Slightly pricier but also a bit more than the standard dinner option; the loved-up package includes an overnight stay, a three-course dinner with bottomless red or white wine and a beer-tasting flight. Oh – it even includes a grooming session too – if you’re looking to really treat your other half. You can even skip the overnight stay and just have dinner at OXBO for a little less.

Priced at £359 per couple for the overnight package

£65 per person for dinner plus £20 per person for the beer tasting flight

Rockwell

A huge celebration on Valentine’s Day isn’t for everyone so if you’re more lowkey, why not head to Rockwell, a cocktail bar and lounge in London’s Trafalgar Square. It recently launched the Nootropical Garden, a mind-enhancing experience, featuring natural and exotic nootropics. For Valentine’s Day, a bespoke cocktail has been created; Mystery of Maca – which includes strawberry and vanilla Rinomato Aperitivo Deciso, Maca Lapsang Souchong tea syrup and Maison Sassy Cidre Rosé.

The Rooftop St. James

Take in an alternative – but equally as impressive – view of London’s skyline this Valentine’s Day and celebrate at the Rooftop St. James. Cheers with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Rosé on arrival and enjoy a three-course meal. Special performances will also take place on Valentine’s Day, so you can enjoy the musical stylings of three-piece band Wandering Soul and solo singer Rob Lamont – who will perform on 15th February.

Priced at £65.00 per person

Town House at The Kensington

This Valentine’s Day, enjoy a five-course menu at London’s Town House at The Kensington. Start the evening off with a glass of Perrier-Jouet champagne and either oysters with lychee and rose petals (they’re an aphrodisiac, after all) or beetroot and pumpkin velouté with pomegranate. That’s just the beginning as there’s still a three-course meal to be savoured – including seared scallops; beef fillet and lobster and buttermilk panna cotta. Priced at £85 per person

Dalloway Terrace

Name a more iconic place to celebrate Valentine’s Day in London. Dalloway Terrace has long served us all as the most Instagrammable, cosy, cute brasserie and it’s no exception come the most romantic day of the year. The floral fairytale style restaurant will be transformed into the alpine town of Gstaad – a snow-covered, picturesque (and as Instagrammable as ever) winter setting. After the picture-taking has ceased, you can sit back and enjoy your glass of champagne and a four-course dinner.Priced at £75 per person

The Mystical Garden

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at London’s South Place Hotel which has transformed its bar area into the Mystical Garden. In partnership with St-Germain, the cocktails all have the elderflower liqueur as a base to emulate the change of season to spring. Cheers to love in this enchanting wisteria haven, inspired by St-Germain’s French background and enjoy the art gallery exhibition by Sophie Tea, making it the perfect activity for a date or Galentine’s celebration.

HIDE

Michelin-starred restaurant HIDE is offering its diners an indulgent seven-course menu at HIDE Above this Valentine’s Day. Guests can enjoy Ollie Dabbous’ classic dishes of white asparagus with caviar, black truffle pasta parcels – all paired with wine from Europe’s most extensive wine list (in partnership with Hedonism Wines). Seriously, get there early as that wine list will take some time to sift through. The exclusive Valentine’s menu also offers the option of a wine flight if you can’t choose. Or guests can head down to HIDE Below for the romantic and limited edition Strawberries & Cream cocktail.

Priced at £175 per person with £150 for the optional wine flight

Sofitel St. James

Looking for another staycation to celebrate Valentine’s Day in London? The Sofitel London St James has just had a huge refurbishment, making it the perfect place to take your loved on or friends and faily to relax for some quality time. Devour a three-course dinner at Wild Honey St James or have a spa treatment as the hotel has recently partnered with French cosmetics brand CODAGE (choose from individual massages, facials or even a personalised couples’ spa treatment). You’re a strone’ throw from St James’ Park so you could also go for a relaxing or romantic stroll too. Wild Honey has a special Valentine’s menu, featuring scallops, pork cheakand hot chocolate fondant or, alternatively, guests can opt for the Valentine’s Day afternoon tea.

Priced at £120 per person (three course meal plus champagne)

Priced at £130 per person (spa treatment and afternoon tea); £55 for just afternoon tea

Destination Inspiration February 10, 2020

O-man, you’re missing out!

Why should your next trip be to Oman? We’ll tell you why. Our girl Vanessa had the pleasure to visit the Arabian peninsula last week and she hasn’t shut up about it since.

Rich in cultural history with a unique and exotic vibe, Oman is a place everyone must visit at some point in their life; mainly known for being a major oil exporter yet the country has so much more to offer. It’s history is perfect for history lovers; once under Portuguese rule with old ports, defences and a jail, which there is now no need for due its non-existent crime rate.

It’s one of the safest regions in the Middle East, has four UNESCO world heritage sites and it’s buildings are awash with pastels; no dark colours or skyscrapers here, not even in Muscat, making it simply picturesque.

As a country it is super stable and ruled by a monarchy; Sultan Qaboos bin Said al-Said attended university in the UK and made many changes to the country, modernising it and its culture. He recently passed and has been succeeded by his cousin, Haitham bin Tariq Al Said. So over the next few years it will be interesting to see what the new Sultan brings to Oman.

Omani’s are vibrant, friendly and beyond polite and the country is immersed in the culture of Islam, so throwing yourself into the culture is necessary. A visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a highlight, with the largest carpet in the world and a 1,120 lightbulb Swarovski chandelier, it is a grounding experience; just remember to dress appropriately and respectfully. Venturing into the city to discover old Muscat, new Muscat and their ports allows you to appreciate what the country has to offer. Getting lost in the Souks is a must and even in this environment the Omani stall owners are super polite, with an array of perfume oils, trinkets, clothing and local food, it’s the perfect place to absorb the dynamic atmosphere.

Dates, obviously play a huge part in Oman and we definitely recommend trying a variety, yet they aren’t the only sweet treat in the nation. Halwa, is a sticky gelatinous dish made from brown sugar, honey, eggs and various spices, that is seriously worth indulging in.

The rest of Omani cuisine revolves around meat, spices, bread and rice. Majoboos is meal worth trying it’s rice cooked with saffron and served with a spicy meat of your choice. Mushalat is also a good option, it’s a soft flat bread stuffed with honey, meat, spinach or cheese and of course there is Shwarma.

Due to it’s ports and coast Oman is renowned for it’s seafood and if you’re a fan. Mashuai is the dish for you; roasted kingfish and savoury lemon rice. Some places also allow you to experience the traditional Oman Shuwa which is a celebratory dish of roasted lamb and rice, normally reserved for special occasions.

Oman’s landscape is breathtaking; mountains whose rock formations vary from one to the next, vast deserts with scatterings of trees and shrubs to the whitewashed buildings of the city. There is always something to look at and explore.

To get the best of Oman, you need to know where to stay… Sahab Resort and Spa is a boutique hotel in Jabal Al Akhdar, built on the canyon edge of Al Hajar Mountain range. The resort sits at 2000m above sea level so temperatures can get a little chilly but the views easily make up for that. So whether you want a little pamper or adventure this is the perfect location. Spa treatments and sunbathing vs hiking and abseiling; the choice is yours.

Mountainous landscape with breathtaking views checked off, so the next choice is of course the desert. Dunes by Al Nahda is a tented hotel in the South Batinah region, located in the heart of the desert you are surrounded by the sands of the Wadi Al Abyad. The resort is spread out over 17 acres and has 50 individual tents, an incredible restaurant, the best hotel reception you will ever encounter, an open air spa, an incredible restaurant, a bar that can conjure up any cocktail and of course a resident camel.

All in all, Oman is a secret treasure that isn’t going to be a secret for much longer.

Australia February 7, 2020

Best Places to Escape for Valentine’s Day

Love is in the air! Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and there’s nothing we love more than an excuse for a weekend or week away. Try the following short breaks to celebrate love, on Valentine’s Day or any day of the year.

Venice

Twenty minutes from Venice’s magical St Mark’s Square, The Dedica Anthology’s Grand Hotel dei Dogi combines an authentic sense of nobility from its 16th-century origins with a modern attitude to life and thoughtful, highly personalised service. Although the hotel is located within the magical and romantic canals of Venice and just a short distance from the tourist beats, guests can get lost in one of the city’s largest private gardens and experience the true romance of Venice.

Grand Hotel dei Dogi has produced a Romantic Secret Map for Valentine’s Day – a handy insider guide to their favourite romantic spots in the city. With intimate squares, flower-filled parks and breath-taking views to discover, you cannot fail to feel the love.

Istanbul

Once known as Constantinople or City of the World’s Desire, Istanbul blends two continents. With a history as poetic as that, romance can be found in every corner of the Old City.

An artisanal gem, the five-star AJWA Hotel Sultanahmet blends the finest elements of Seljuk and Ottoman architecture with modern luxurious hospitality, creating the perfect backdrop for the ultimate romantic getaway. The hotel’s location in the fabled Old City of Istanbul, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so couples can explore the major mosques, museums and bazaars, which are only a short distance away, before returning to the spectacular hotel. Couples can book in for a private treatment at the exquisite hammam or take the views from the rooftop whilst enjoying an intimate candle lit dinner.

Maldives

A myriad of blue and picturesque islands, the Maldives is romance personified, a tranquil escape with uninterrupted ocean and pristine turquoise lagoon views.

For Valentine’s Day, the spa at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo is offering a special Valentine’s Day package that includes a 30-minute coconut and sea salt exfoliation, 60-minute heavenly signature body massage and a soaking bath tube experience with a bottle of wine. For couples staying at the resort during Valentine’s Day, they have the choice of two incredible food and drink offerings. The Valentine’s Kaiseki Dinner is a five-course dinner at The Pearl, the resort’s elegant speciality Japanese restaurant.

Alternatively, guests can enjoy the Starlight Escape Dinner on Sunset Beach, which includes a five-course dinner and one bottle of champagne. Guests can also add a floating breakfast in the morning with two glasses of champagne to this package for the ultimate Valentine’s Day experience.

Northern Ireland

The Slieve Donard Resort & Spa, one of Hastings Hotels’ seven properties in Northern Ireland, is situated on the idyllic seashores of the Irish sea on Newcastle Bay. The hotel looks out to the Mountains of Mourne with spectacular views across the Royal County Down Golf Course. Set in six acres of beautifully kept private grounds, the property is famous for its expansive and luxurious spa. Guests can escape to a cocoon of calm and melt away their stresses with over two floors of tranquility, including a magnificent 20 metre swimming pool and Vitality Pool, amethyst steam room and high-tech fitness studio.

This Valentine’s, spend a romantic dinner overlooking the Mourne Mountains, complete with dinner, a glass of prosecco and spa access during your stay. Plus of course a Hastings rubber duck created especially for Valentine’s Day for those bubble baths for two.

Vietnam

Salinda Resort is located on the serene island of Phu Quoc, where the breathtaking location, authentic Vietnamese touches and impeccable service are ideal for a Valentine’s Day break. With three spoiling restaurants to choose from, an enchanting Thai Spa, and the incredible famous ‘purple sunsets’, Salinda Resort offers a charming tranquil island retreat. The hotel boasts a fantastic selection of exceptionally designed venues to inspire love. .

Wow your loved one with a stunning, serene and beautifully set up dinner, featuring a glorious sunset as your backdrop or a dinner nestled in lush greeneries of the mango garden. Experience romance with a 3-course gourmet meal as your private waiter provides attentive and solicitous service for you to celebrate love. Alternatively, working alongside your Valentine, Chef Long will walk you through a culinary celebration of your favourite Vietnamese dishes. The chefs will demonstrate how to make the quintessential Vietnamese meal step by step, and then you can dine on your creations for lunch with complimentary refreshments and chef’s recipes to take home.

Tuscany

What could be more beautiful than gazing at the stars with your loved one? Tuscany Now & More, the exclusive villa rental specialists in Tuscany and beyond, is delighted to announce its collection of properties that boast awe-inspiring panoramas for Valentine’s Day, creating the perfect locations for stargazing and admiring the sun set to form a spectacular night sky. Guests can experience stargazing with an expert astronomer at a traditional Tuscan farmhouse, stay in a villa on its very own secluded hilltop, or sit on their terrace on the edge of a medieval village and gaze at the starlit night sky above.

Located in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, Colli Fiorentini is a spectacular stone farmhouse that is surrounded by sweeping hills, blanketed with vineyards and olive groves. Due to the villa’s remote location, the constellations are incredibly visible from the garden, allowing guests to experience a truly magical and unique Tuscan experience.

Lisbon

Tivoli Carvoeiro invites you to celebrate love with a customised programme designed for St. Valentine’s, being the perfect excuse for a romantic weekend, in one of the most elegant resorts in the Algarve. With a contemporary and warm design, inspired by the tones of the sea, and tucked onto a cliﬀ-hugging coast of picturesque fishing villages, Tivoli Carvoeiro is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. Some highlights of the programme include dinner for two, with the sound of the Atlantic waves and candlelight, a walking tour of the Seven Hanging Valleys with a specialized guide to help couples unveil the secrets of the landscape, fauna, flora and local culture. The Valentine’s Day program includes an offer of 20% for the couple treatments at the Tivoli Spa. The romantic treatment for two combines a facial with a massage and ends with a bath of rose petals, strawberries with chocolate and sparkling wine.

There is a strong belief that the Trojans were originally Greek, including some of the scholars who worked at https://madeinturkeytours.com/troy/ site.

Accessories February 5, 2020

What to Pack: Stylish Safari-inspired looks for Capetown

Capetown is definitely a bucket list destination, but don’t take our word for it – why don’t you check our our girl Beth Robert’s review of one of Capetown’s hottest design hotels and see for yourself?

So if you’re feeling inspired and planning to conquer table mountain, or just lounge by the Silo Hotel’s very own rooftop pool; then your outfits should definitely match the occasion. Our suggestion? Embrace classic khakis and contemporary earth tones – for a safari look that is as fierce as the wildlife.

Khaki Gabriela Hat by Misaharada available at www.misaharada.com
Leopard print bodysuit by Longchamp available at longchamp.com
Black boots by Penelope Chilvers available at penelopechilvers.com
Cognac Isla bag by Montunas available at montunas.com
Gold plated beaded necklace by Bibi Marini available at bibimarini.com
Gold Oceanus cuff by Deborah Blyth available at deborahblyth.com
Lyra sunglasses by You Mawo available at seen.co.uk
Green printed dress by Lelloue available at lelloue.com
Khaki satin top by Rosetta Getty available at rosettagetty.com
Zebra print shorts by Lelloue available at lelloue.com
Black Polido sandals by Toga available at toga.jp
Croc Purse by Amishi London available at amishi.london
Burgundy voyageur bag by Tumi available at tumi.com
Lesley Necklace by Lola Rose available at co.uk

France February 3, 2020

Wake Up Here: Borthwick Castle, Edinburgh

Just 12 miles outside of Edinburgh nestled into the spectacular Scottish countryside sits the beautiful Borthwick Castle; an exclusive use venue available to hire for all manner of occasions.

Surrounded by green fields and tucked away at the bottom of a valley in Gorebridge, Scotland, the beauty of this 15th century castle is obvious, but after staying there you soon understand just what a special place it is. The historical significance is poignant and your regularly reminded of the castle’s rich past; thanks to the bedchamber named after Mary Queen of Scots (who once stayed at the castle herself) and the damage to the outside of the building caused by canon fire from Oliver Cromwell.

Winding stone staircases and small doorways add to the charm of the castle – it would be a truly magical place to visit as a child (perfect for a long game of hide and seek!)

The Great Hall is truly beautiful. The grandeur is impressive, with dramatic high ceilings and exposed brickwork feeling authentic to the castle’s heritage. It’s the perfect room for a feast; traditional, banquet-style tables take centre stage, making dining for large groups easy and enjoyable.

And dining at Borthwick does not disappoint – the day begins with an enviable breakfast spread with everything from cereals to pastries to chef’s special oats and ends with a customisable menu built to fit the needs of any guest.

Head Chef Derek Johnstone is Roux-trained, the winner of the inaugural Masterchef The Professionals and a finalist of Chef of the Year 2019 and 2020. Working with him and the Food and Beverage Manager you can have full control over the food for you and your guests; designing one-of-a-kind menus full of delicious dishes created with seasonal flavours and local ingredients.

For after-dinner drinks the State Room is warm and inviting, reminiscent of a Hogwarts Common Room, decked out with comfortable couches and chairs and full of cosy corners. It’s the kind of room you want to be in reading a book by the open fire listening to the sound of rain hitting the windows. For an event it’s a great space for a drinks reception or for down time between busier parts of a schedule. It would be the most perfect place to spend Christmas day morning (yes, Borthwick do offer bookings 365 days a year) opening presents with a roaring fire and festive songs playing.

Sleeping in the castle is both novel and comfortable. Ten plush bedchambers can sleep up to 20 guests and a further four guests in Crookston Cottage and two more in the newly refurbished Gatehouse – both within the grounds of the castle. Each sleeping space has its own personality and quirks, such as reading alcoves looking out over the grounds, beautiful marble bathtubs and cute twin beds.

At the very top of the castle is The Garrison, a space often used for wedding ceremonies or presentations but it can be personalised to fit the needs of your event. This is very much the theme at Borthwick Castle – the committed staff pride themselves on going above and beyond to bring your dreams to life.

Borthwick Castle operates as a private hire location available to host just about any event you can think of; weddings, birthdays, business events, family parties and reunions to name a few. The venue can accommodate 80 guests for events and dining and up to 26 guests to sleep. Three unique and versatile reception rooms and a small outside area can be tailored to fit the needs of your event. An experienced team of staff are dedicated to making your occasion-related dreams come true by helping you every step of the way.

Adventures February 3, 2020

5 must-have experiences in Finnish Lapland

There is something rather magical about winter in Finnish Lapland. From dreamy pastel tones that fill the sky, the romantic whiteout landscapes to watching the Northern Lights dance above you, there is something the seems otherworldly inside Finland’s pocket of the Arctic Circle.

While the pristine wilderness of Finnish Lapland is beautiful in summer and autumn, it is winter that truly takes pride of place for this unspoiled corner of Scandinavia. With a truly remarkable offering from festive getaways and ski breaks to uncovering Sami culture and catching a glimpse of the best light show on earth, there’s no shortage of things to do in Lapland.

We love all things winter wonderland related, so we’ve gathered the things you cannot miss doing on an adventure in Finnish Lapland.

1. Go dog sledding

A huge part of the culture here in Finnish Lapland, dog sledding is one of the most popular and iconic activities on offer. An integral part of the Sami culture for centuries, dog sledding was a primary means of transport in the Arctic. There are a number of tours that allow you to experience your own dog sledding moment, many of which give you the opportunity to try your hand at mushing (driving the sled).

From gentle, relaxing trails that weave through snow dusted pine forests and across frozen lakes to more demanding paths with trails that give you a hours of beautiful landscapes zipping by, there’s no shortage of excursions to choose from.

Many husky safaris also include a snack or meal and a hot drink to warm you after a few hours in the frigid temps. Cosy up by an open fire in a traditional wooden hut, and warm your toes as you sip hot juice and enjoy homemade soup.

It’s important to remember to research your tour operator and select an ethical practice when considering your options for any animal tourism.

2. See the northern lights

There’s no doubt that magic is real once you’ve watched the spectacular light show that is the Aurora Borealis. Ribbons of green and purple blaze through the inky night sky in a dance that is truly beyond this world in a brilliant display of nature’s finest work.

Hunting the northern lights is as much about luck as it is about preparation. There’s a few key considerations before you head out looking for them. The time of year (October-March is best, but they can sometimes be seen in September and April), no light pollution and clear skies. The rest really comes down to mother nature.

For the best chances to see the brilliance of the Aurora for yourself, joining a northern lights tour in Lapland will pair you with a team of expert guides who know the best locations and exactly what to look out for.

If you plan to give it a go alone, remember to avoid light pollution and be patient. The lights can be fleeting or last for hours, coming in ebbs and flows as the particles in the atmosphere react. There are also a few Aurora apps that can help you with notifications of where the best opportunities are based on your location and geomagnetic activity.

Just remember, this one is about luck. Give yourself a few nights in case of bad weather or the lights simply not showing up sometimes. We recommend 3-5 nights for the best chances.

3. Wake up in a glass igloo

You’ll truly feel like you’ve woken up on the set of Frozen after spending a night in a glass igloo. Giving you uninterrupted access to the night’s sky, this can be one of the best locations to spot the northern lights if you’re lucky. Cosy up with a hot chocolate and watch one of the best shows on earth unfold, without having to leave the warmth of your igloo.

Of course, a stay in a glass igloo is idyllic in any situation. The views from these unique accommodations are incredible, with the short days in winter casting sorbet tones across the skies for hours at a time – an endless golden hour.

There are several options for a glass igloo stay, from the gateway to the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi to the remote northern settlement of Saariselkä. But they book out early, so get in quick if you’re planning your Lapland escape.

4. Enjoy a Finnish sauna experience

In a country where there are over 3 million saunas, it should be a must-do on everyone’s list while in Finland. A traditional pastime much-loved by the Finns, there is something deeply therapeutic about a session in a Finnish sauna.

Coming in from the crisp winter air of the outdoors, your body will love warming up in one of these steamy wooden rooms. Of course if you’d like to really challenge your body, why not try a dip in the freezing water of a nearby lake before thawing in the comfort of the Finns favourite social space?

5. Visit Santa

No trip to Lapland would be complete without a visit to the jolly fellow we all know and love. Considered the home of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi is the ideal place to enjoy a festive break any time of year.

There’s plenty to see and do at Santa Claus Village, with reindeer sleigh rides and Santa’s workshop. The Arctic Circle actually cuts right through Santa Claus Village meaning you can be both inside and outside the circle at the same time!

You can spend the night in one of the cabins on site, with the option to keep an eye on the skies to spot the northern lights dancing their way overhead. Just to add to the fun of it all, any mail you post from here will be postmarked from Santa’s post office.

Destination Inspiration February 3, 2020

Experience Awards Season like a Celebrity in West Hollywood

With the new year comes Hollywood’s awards season. It kicked-off with a glittering bang last weekend with the 77th Golden Globe Awards- thank you for the laughs, Ricky Gervais! – and if you’re anything like me, with that comes the anticipation of who is wearing what and generally, just basking in the fabulousness of it all. But how do the stars get red-carpet ready? From sweat lodges to vitamin injections, #TeamCoco got the scoop on on how they make the most of West Hollywood’s world-famous wellness and shopping experiences, in the heart of Los Angeles.

Sweat it out at the ‘Urban Sweat Lodge’: Join one of West Hollywood’s alternative sweat sessions at the Shape House, offering a sweating experience wrapped in a heated blanket whilst watching Netflix. During the sweat session, the heart receives a workout similar to that of a ten-mile run, resulting in an intense, detoxifying, health-boosting sweat, burning 800-1,600 calories. Individual sweat sessions cost $65.

Revitalise with vitamin injections: Rehab Wellness is a medical wellness centre, offering a variety of healthcare and aesthetics to help guests feel better, look younger and live longer. One of the most popular treatments on offer is the vitamin injection, with shots starting from $24. Benefits include increased energy and metabolism, improved digestion and skin health.

Give your face a workout: Opened inside the 1 Hotel in September, FaceGym has made its way to LA following the opening of six locations in the UK and one in New York City. The concept is for ‘Trainers’ to perform a range of non-invasive workouts for your face and employ the latest cutting-edge technology and high-performance skincare products.

Pause, breathe and unplug: Unplug Meditation, the world’s first drop-in, secular meditation studio, opened its doors in West Hollywood in April 2014. The wide variety of simple and eclectic classes are led by top experts, inspiring visits to pause, breathe and unplug daily, to get calmer, healthier and happier.

Make like the stars and shop!

Design District: West Hollywood’s Design District home to California’s premier design, art, fashion and beauty stores. Surrounding the Pacific Design Center – home to more than 100 trade-only showrooms – are dozens of shops offering one of a kind home goods and clothing, to get you ready for a night of celebration.

Melrose Avenue: Melrose Avenue is one of LA’s most iconic streets, with a wide variety of trendy shops and restaurants. Those looking to stand out can head to Melrose Place, which offers an eye-popping array of designer stores, including Isabel Marant and Marc Jacobs, as well as carefully curated boutiques.

Award season hotspots and where to stay:

The West Hollywood EDITION: Located on the corner of West Sunset Boulevard and North Doheny Drive, the recently opened West Hollywood EDITION features 190 design-forward luxury rooms and suites, along with 20 residences. Each room boasts indulgent bedding, inviting baths and Le Labo products, as well as floor-to-ceiling windows receiving impressive views of the LA skyline. Guestscan revel in a rooftop pool, six-treatment room spa, lobby lounge, basement club and signature restaurant.

Kimpton La Peer Hotel: Kimpton La Peer Hotel can be found in the heart of the city’s lively Design District. La Peer signals “unbuttoned luxury” with its chic European-styled rooms, complete with white oak herringbone floors, a calming colour palette and deep soaking baths. It’s an intimate place with just 105 guestrooms and suites and a pool that’s refreshingly casual – accented with Gaudi tiles, shady olive trees and a vertical garden wall.

Hotel 850 SVB: A sister property to the iconic Sunset Tower Hotel – which held one of the Golden Globes after parties this year – Hotel 850 SVB offers a chic home-from-home in the heart of West Hollywood. The hotel offers 23 beautifully appointed rooms, a communal living room, large rooftop terrace and modern pantry where guests can enjoy meals from Chefs from across the city, located within the historical bungalow façade, tucked away in a residential street.

Austria January 31, 2020

Lech – a destination for all seasons

Whether you love to ski, hike, bake or even try a spot of mountain top yoga, Lech in Austria is the place to be in 2020. In winter, it’s a ski bunny’s paradise and receives up to twice as much snow as some of its alpine counterparts. Lech is expecting snow in the next few days, so if you are looking for a great ski destination – head to this beautiful city for some snow-filled fun.

Travelling to Lech is a breeze. You can either fly into Innsbruck or Zurich – both of which make for a scenic drive or why not get the train? Langen am Arlberg is just 15 km away from the centre of Lech. There is also a special ski coach that you can take in winter which takes you directly from Zurich to the hotel.

We stayed in the beautiful and charming Hotel Arlberg which is conveniently situated in the heart of this picturesque town. This five-star ski and wellness boutique hotel is a luxury alpine retreat brimming in character and is run by a friendly and professional family team who have previously hosted the likes of Princess Diana.

The décor is luxurious yet eclectic and has subtle nods to its mountain surroundings. Think rustic cool where you will find both objet d’art and stylish accessories sitting side-by-side. The rooms are huge and are elegantly furnished.

We loved spending time in the hotels elegant spa where you can enjoy relaxing massages, rejuvenating facials and more. We highly recommend the Susanne Kaufman facial which will bring your winter weary skin back to life in the space of just one hour.

Wellness is certainly a huge theme in Lech. The town and its inhabitants pride themselves on relaxation and rejuvenation. Locals and tourists are encouraged to take part in holistic activities such as barefoot hiking, sound walking and more.

There is so much to do in Lech and it really is a great destination for skiing. However, if you would prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground (as opposed to a pair of skis) then Lech won’t disappoint. You can try your hand at some mountain top yoga in the spring, pilates or even a cookery class at the hotel where you can make some delicious local delicacies under the watchful eye of the hotels acclaimed pastry chef.

Wine lovers simply must try the hotel’s wine tasting experience where co-owner Patrick will take you through a superb selection of wines that are certain to impress. If you didn’t love Austrian wine before you arrive in Lech, you will certainly leave Austria with a new passion for the region’s wines.

If you are looking to try a variety of different activities, we recommend that you acquire a ‘My Lech’ card which will give you access to lots of fun things to do in the warmer months in Lech.

From admiring the views from a cable car to taking an e-bike tour where you can navigate your way down the mountain. You can even take a herb hiking tour where you can discover the best that nature has to offer in this pretty town.

Lech is definitely one of the prettiest towns in Austria, so make sure that you add this to your places to stay in 2020 and beyond bucket list.

Book your room – https://arlberghotel.at/en/

Azerbaijan January 27, 2020

Wake Up Here: Ajwa Sultanahmet Hotel Istanbul Turkey

Biting into a sweet, gooey date as I sipped my Turkish tea was the perfect welcome to the Ajwa Sultanahmet Hotel Istanbul Turkey. It even overtook (just slightly, because of my stomach’s rumbling) the fancy car service that transported me from the airport to the hotel.

Experience Luxury and Elegance

The gorgeous Ajwa Sultanahmet Istanbul is exactly that – gorgeous. The stunning architecture is what catches your eye as soon as it is in sight – regardless of the time of the day as either the sun is hitting the walls, making the gold shine strong and the white stone appear to have flecks of pink and blue; or the entire hotel is a glowing building, standing out completely on the corner of the street. The hotel is what I’d imagine a Turkish princess’s first ‘home away from home’ to be. A beautiful grand entrance, stunning and ornate decor – featuring only the best artists’ handiwork – and a private hammam to indulge in a cleansing scrub.

The interiors of the hotel are even more decorative, with the furniture being a mixture of locally-made designs, as well as some from Damascus. The chairs and cabinets feature beautiful Mother of Pearl details and each floor showcases Azerbaijani (or Azeri) artwork on the walls. If you take a liking to this kind of design, be sure to visit the nearby shops which double as art galleries – they sell different pieces of furniture, as well as Persian rugs.

Biting into a sweet, gooey date as I sipped my Turkish tea was the perfect welcome to the Ajwa Sultanahmet Hotel Istanbul Turkey. It even overtook (just slightly, because of my stomach’s rumbling) the fancy car service that transported me from the airport to the hotel.

Experience Luxury and Elegance

The gorgeous Ajwa Sultanahmet Istanbul is exactly that – gorgeous. The stunning architecture is what catches your eye as soon as it is in sight – regardless of the time of the day as either the sun is hitting the walls, making the gold shine strong and the white stone appear to have flecks of pink and blue; or the entire hotel is a glowing building, standing out completely on the corner of the street. The hotel is what I’d imagine a Turkish princess’s first ‘home away from home’ to be. A beautiful grand entrance, stunning and ornate decor – featuring only the best artists’ handiwork – and a private hammam to indulge in a cleansing scrub.

The interiors of the hotel are even more decorative, with the furniture being a mixture of locally-made designs, as well as some from Damascus. The chairs and cabinets feature beautiful Mother of Pearl details and each floor showcases Azerbaijani (or Azeri) artwork on the walls. If you take a liking to this kind of design, be sure to visit the nearby shops which double as art galleries – they sell different pieces of furniture, as well as Persian rugs.

Indulge in Opulence

This stunning artwork continues within the Ajwa hotel rooms; my bathroom door is open as I walk in so I am immediately greeted by beautiful blue patterned tiles and rose gold finishing. Mother of Pearl is present in the furniture and that’s probably all I focus on as, afterwards, my attention was very much so diverted to the large bed that was calling my name. There are 48 Deluxe Rooms (of which I was lucky to secure one) but if you’re looking for something slightly more swish, the hotel offers a Presidential Suite and even separate guesthouses if you’re travelling in a group.

Breakfast at Ajwa is an impressive display. You can opt for the buffet which offers an array of treats: eggs, courgette and spinach fritters, Turkish sausages; pides; labneh – the works. Alternatively, you can order a la carte, including the traditional Turkish breakfast spread…which pretty much includes every item on the buffet and more. I’d definitely recommend a sunrise breakfast as the panoramic view from the restaurant is so pretty – you can see a mixture of the Old City and the Marmara Sea.

Discover the Rich History and Culinary Delights of Istanbul

Lunch and dinner are served on the same top floor, in the Zeferan restaurant and the Azerbaijani chef cooks up a feast every mealtime. Whether plates full of grilled meats, salads and ‘shakh plov’ (a local rice dish) or Sultan’s stew (lamb with aubergine purée) and yoghurt soup; one thing is for certain – I did not go hungry here.

With the Old City right on your doorstep, you’re minutes away from impressive and historical sights such as the Blue Mosque, the Haiga Sophia and Topkapi Palace. The hotel concierge was only too happy to fix me up with a tour guide – I have been to Istanbul before but you learn so much more about the cultural spots with someone who knows all about them. For example, my guide told me that there are over 21,647 tiles making up the Blue Mosque (so named because of the dark blue titles on the interior design and, over time, the name changed from Dark Blue Tiled Mosque to Blue Mosque). Another interesting fact I was told, was that it took 10,000 people to build the Haiga Sophia over five years – and it took 13,000 kg of gold in expenses. My jaw definitely dropped at this point.

Immerse Yourself in Luxury and Tradition

A trip to the famous Grand Bazaar was a hectic but fascinating experience, as I loaded up with spices, ceramics and jewellery. It’s easy to get lost inside – and it’s no wonder as the Grand Bazaar is home to five mosques, two fountains, 67 roads, 40 doors and even a school.

After a busy day of walking the streets of Istanbul, nothing is more appealing than a trip to the hammam I mentioned earlier. The Afiya Spa at the hotel is something everyone should definitely experience. I had received the traditional Turkish treatment before but the hammam room at Ajwa was by far one of the most beautiful I’d seen and well worth a visit. The Turkish Bath treatment takes place in the spa and after a menthol steam room session, I enjoyed a thorough scrubbing. It wasn’t as harsh as I’ve had this treatment before which is fantastic, as you can really relax as you’re getting exfoliated and becoming the cleanest you’ve ever been. Seriously – the cleanest I’ve been in my life.

A magical stay that I would definitely recommend for anyone wanting a boutique hotel experience while being footsteps from the majority of Istanbul’s best gems.

Indulge in Opulence

This stunning artwork continues within the Ajwa hotel rooms; my bathroom door is open as I walk in so I am immediately greeted by beautiful blue patterned tiles and rose gold finishing. Mother of Pearl is present in the furniture and that’s probably all I focus on as, afterwards, my attention was very much so diverted to the large bed that was calling my name. There are 48 Deluxe Rooms (of which I was lucky to secure one) but if you’re looking for something slightly more swish, the hotel offers a Presidential Suite and even separate guesthouses if you’re travelling in a group.

Breakfast at Ajwa is an impressive display. You can opt for the buffet which offers an array of treats: eggs, courgette and spinach fritters, Turkish sausages; pides; labneh – the works. Alternatively, you can order a la carte, including the traditional Turkish breakfast spread. Which pretty much includes every item on the buffet and more. I’d recommend a sunrise breakfast as the panoramic view from the restaurant is so pretty – you can see a mixture of the Old City and the Marmara Sea.

Discover the Rich History and Culinary Delights

Lunch and dinner are served on the same top floor, in the Zeferan restaurant and the Azerbaijani chef cooks up a feast every mealtime. Whether plates full of grilled meats, salads and ‘shakh plov’ (a local rice dish) or Sultan’s stew (lamb with aubergine purée) and yoghurt soup; one thing is for certain – I did not go hungry here.

With the Old City right on your doorstep, you’re minutes away from impressive and historical sights such as the Blue Mosque, the Haiga Sophia and Topkapi Palace. The hotel concierge was only too happy to fix me up with a tour guide – I have been to Istanbul before but you learn so much more about the cultural spots with someone who knows all about them. For example, my guide told me that there are over 21,647 tiles making up the Blue Mosque (so named because of the dark blue titles on the interior design and, over time, the name changed from Dark Blue Tiled Mosque to Blue Mosque). Another interesting fact I was told, was that it took 10,000 people to build the Haiga Sophia over five years – and it took 13,000 kg of gold in expenses. My jaw definitely dropped at this point.

Immerse Yourself in Luxury and Tradition

A trip to the famous Grand Bazaar was a hectic but fascinating experience, as I loaded up with spices, ceramics and jewellery. It’s easy to get lost inside – and it’s no wonder as the Grand Bazaar is home to five mosques, two fountains, 67 roads, 40 doors and even a school.

After a busy day of walking the streets of Istanbul, nothing is more appealing than a trip to the hammam I mentioned earlier. The Afiya Spa at the hotel is something everyone should experience. I had received the traditional Turkish treatment before but the hammam room at Ajwa was by far one of the most beautiful I’d seen and well worth a visit. The Turkish Bath treatment takes place in the spa and after a menthol steam room session, I enjoyed a thorough scrubbing. It wasn’t as harsh as I’ve had this treatment before which is fantastic, as you can relax as you’re getting exfoliated and becoming the cleanest you’ve ever been. Seriously – the cleanest I’ve been in my life.

A magical stay that I would recommend for anyone wanting a boutique hotel experience while being footsteps from the majority of Istanbul’s best gems.

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Coco Couples January 24, 2020

#CocoCouples : History and Romance with Lumley Castle

Close your eyes and picture that storybook castle you would draw as a kid, on those rainy days when you weren’t allowed to play outside. There’s a big door in the middle, and two towers on either side with battlements across the top, and probably a flag flying from a pole on the roof, too.

Lumley Castle is about as close to that as you can imagine. It was built in the 14th Century after Sir Ralph Lumley returned seemingly very paranoid, from a war in Scotland and converted his then family home into a castle. Turns out he wasn’t paranoid, and was actually involved in a plot to overthrow King Henry IV, so was locked up and eventually executed. It gets more cheery, we promise.

The castle fell down through generations until eventually becoming part of No Ordinary Hotels, but is actually still owned by the 13th Earl of Scarborough. His name? Richard Lumley of course.

Between the original castle building and the old converted stables, now known as the courtyard, Lumley Castle has 73 rooms. The courtyard has three different types of rooms ranging from suite to classic – for those seeking more of a contemporary twist, but while still retaining some of the history and heritage of the place – vaulted ceilings and exposed beams do that for you here.

However, in the main castle is where it really gets interesting. Just the experience of staying in a real 600 year old English castle is enough to get us excited, but the rooms are actually beautifully refined. It’s everything you’d expect from a modern hotel room, but with all of the character and atmosphere from a medieval fortress.

If you’re really looking for that old English romantic getaway (or you’re into Game of Thrones roleplay) the King James Suite is a remarkable medieval bedchamber built in what used to be the chapel of the old castle (if these walls could talk…), which was probably the only room in the building with ceilings high enough to fit its magnificent twenty-feet-high four-poster bed. The suite is achingly authentic – the bed, the vaulted door, the red carpets and thick tapestry-like drapes – but is still awash with 21st-Century conveniences like a Nespresso machine and a jacuzzi bath. Just like in the fairytales!

The staple of the castle dining scene is the ‘Knights Restaurant’ (are you noticing a theme here?) which serves up fantastic prepared food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Not to shy away too much from the castle’s heyday in the Middle Ages, dishes are rich and served in hefty portions, but have thankfully done away with the grog and roasted hedgehogs which would have once adorned these dining rooms. Nowadays on the menu you’re more likely to find a really good 21-day dry-aged steak, or a fillet of Indian spiced cod, which are both excellent choices. And to drink, no Cock Ale, but a fine list of very carefully selected wines and malt whiskeys.

Some castles rely entirely on their historic significance to get by, but Lumley Castle is moving with the times. Last year, the castle even opened its own Escape Room which tells the story of Lily, the Ghost of Lumley – one of the supposed castle resident ghosts who fell victim to a deadly curse and whose spirit became trapped in the castle… if you believe such things.

lumleycastle.com