Travel - House Of Coco Magazine

Coco Couples January 23, 2020

Still searching for your 2020 Summer vacation? Room Mate Olivia might be the answer …

“Having established itself over the world as the leading Spanish urban chain, Room Mate Group is continuing to innovate and has created a new business line, as it aims to rediscover the experience and concept of the beachfront hotel.”

As the January blues creep up and the hunger for some foreign sunshine settles in, there’s no better time to start thinking about your 2020 summer getaway. But, instead of clocking up your air mileage chasing the warm temperatures and Insta-worthy landscapes, Room Mate’s most-recent boutique hotel to hit the map means you no longer have to fly long-haul to experience some oceanside luxury.

And to celebrate the opening of their most recent venture, Room Mate Beach Hotel are gifting their customers with 40% off bookings throughout January. Despite the brand having established itself worldwide since 2005, the hotel will be the first of its kind for Kike Sarasola, who’s vision to expand into beachside resorts is looking to be a successful move for the company.

Alongside the carefully crafted selection of culinary delights on offer, visitors can expect to be greeted with an interior fashioned by internationally-renowned landscape designer, Jaime Beriestain.

“I have focused on the Mediterranean, its beaches, its culture, and its traditions and also taken inspiration from the vital role that craftsmanship plays in many of the island’s towns. I have closely studied materials used by local craftspeople on the island, such as leather, clay, ceramics and vegetable fibers, in order to creatively incorporate them into the hotel’s decor”

Tapping into this season’s most coveted trends of wellness and personal health, the hotel doesn’t fall short of its own wellbeing amenities – boasting an impressive four open-air swimming pools and Balinese-inspired sun deck area, Room Mate is the perfect excuse to take a break from your everyday routine and unwind on the coast of one of Spain’s most atmospheric landscapes. Located just off the island’s prominent Calviá Beach, Room Mate Olivia grants its guests with their own little slice of beachside tranquillity; but should you find yourself craving the urban-city lifestyle energy, the islands capital city of Palma can be accessed via a short drive from the hotel.

So, as to be expected, House of Coco couldn’t miss an opportunity to visit this exciting new addition to the Balearic’s shoreline. In the run-up to the hotel’s grand opening, don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled on our socials later this year and join us on our trip to oceanside heaven.

For more information, visit Room Mate Hotels at www.room-matehotels.com

Hotels & Spas January 20, 2020

Wake Up Here: Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

If there is one image on Instagram that has defined the influence of this social media site on travel habits, it is the iconic image of overwater villas over crystal clear blue waters with exotic tropical fish in places like The Maldives. This is an aspirational experience and one on most people’s bucket list. The team at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has clearly understood this fact and it was no surprise they’ve built substantially more overwater villas in their recent $20 million renovations.

When Team Coco stayed at the resort, we tested out both their cottage with garden view and their mesmerising water bungalows. There are positives with both types of accommodation. The former option is surprisingly pocket-friendly with a dreamy outdoor garden en-suite that celebrates your arrival to a tropical paradise. There is an alfresco rain shower which you can enjoy along to the sounds of native birds.

When we moved to the water bungalows, it felt like we were finally at The Maldives, everyone has been daydreaming about. You could be the worst photographer in the world and still come up with masterpieces here such is the picture postcard-perfect scenery. The warm Indian waters are just steps away from your balcony and schools of tropical fish are easy to spot.

If you are worried about dining options being stuck on a remote island, fear not. Firstly, they are on one of the largest islands in The Maldives and they provide 7 varied options to cater for all tastes and whether you are looking for something more casual or formal. Lovers of Asian cuisines are extremely well-catered for here with Thai, Indian and Chinese restaurants available.

There are culinary experiences not to be missed at this resort and the first one is their lagoon lunch. You are sat on an idyllic wooden bench with your legs submerged in the balmy lagoon waters with small, friendly reef sharks swimming in the distance, there are beautiful floral decorations on the table and an attentive server who brings you Champagne and 5 top-quality courses.

The other dining experience, which is utterly unmissable is a visit to their Sea Salt restaurant. They have a fresh seafood tank where you can pick the fresh fish or lobster you would like to sample. Their seared tuna and scallops starters are serious causes of hypersalivation whilst the superlative seafood platter is a seafood lover’s paradise.

With all this mention of food, you might wonder what sporting activities there might be on offer. Non-motorised water sports like kayaking, snorkelling are all complimentary but if you’ve never tried jet-skiing, then this would be the perfect opportunity. You can drive this powerful beast out into the open waters with supervision from their staff.

There are plenty of less adrenaline-inducing activities such as a sunset dolphin cruise and you won’t struggle to spot these majestic beasts as there will be dozens swimming around your boat. You can have a morning yoga class on the sandy beaches on the island or you can visit their Shine spa which is on a separate private island where you can enjoy ayurvedic treatments and soothing massages.

With prices starting at £315 per night, the Maldives dream is much more affordable than you think and something you should tick off the bucket list in 2020.

Nightly rates at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa (www.marriott.co.uk/hotels/travel/mlesi-sheraton-maldives-full-moon-resort-and-spa/; +960 664 2010) start from $400/£315 per night based on 2 people sharing a Deluxe Garden View King Room on a B&B basis.

Adventures January 16, 2020

Seven Reasons to Visit Santa Barbara in 2020

Rapidly cementing its status as a top destination for foodie travellers, Santa Barbara’s culinary scene has never been better. Situated just two hours north of Los Angeles, California, the region holds all the raw ingredients for great wining, dining and culture – from year-round produce and sustainable seafood to world-class vineyards, not to mention a blossoming art scene to boot. Here’s why you should visit in 2020…

Devour world-class food in fabulous surroundings

In recent years, a flurry of new chefs have arrived in Santa Barbara who are applying a high level of skill to the abundant local produce. Forget stuffy white table cloths and smart dress codes, this city is all about laidback luxury. Serving up some of California’s most innovative dining experiences, a number of recently opened restaurants have been wowing locals and visitors alike. Try Bibi-Ji, Santa Barbara’s first contemporary Indian, serving playful spins on classics with a menu that highlights the local seafood served ‘sea-to-table’, Tyger Tyger, a dynamic 1,900-square-foot marketplace featuring ‘fast-fine’ Southeast Asian cuisine, or Loquita, a lively Spanish-style restaurant in the Funk Zone.

There’s a brand new culinary festival

Santa Barbara is on the cusp of launching a city-wide extravaganza, the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience, presented in partnership with the Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts. The event, taking place 13-15 March 2020, is a new annual festival celebrating the bounty of what is grown in and around Santa Barbara, including a tasting event showcasing the best of Santa Barbara’s food and drink, hands-on cooking classes, food trend talks, and more. A new map of Julia Child’s favourite Santa Barbara haunts, specially created for release during the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience, will enable visitors to follow in the famous chef’s footsteps any time of year.

…And a burgeoning art scene

In addition to a growing creative scene, which is evident throughout Santa Barbara’s creative Funk Zone, Santa Barbara Museum of Art will reveal a newly expanded, multi-floor wing in spring 2020, housing photography, Asian art and other exciting exhibits. To open the new wing, the museum will host an exhibit on Vincent van Gogh and his influences, “Through Vincent’s Eyes,” in October 2020. By presenting around 15 works of art by Van Gogh alongside more than 125 works of art selected to reflect the surprisingly varied art that he most admired, the landmark exhibition makes Santa Barbara one to watch on the art circuit.

It’s an Instagrammer’s dream

The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive in Santa Barbara is how pretty it is. Spanish colonial style architecture, pristine streets lined with shops, restaurants, wineries and boutiques, a gorgeous harbour and miles of sandy beaches make it a picture-perfect holiday destination. Delve a bit deeper and you’ll find that the interiors really live up to the city’s shiny exterior. Instagram’s great and good stay at the Martyn Lawrence Bullard-designed Hotel Californian, where Spanish colonial revival architecture and a modern Moorish vibe combine, creating a design infusion begging to be photographed.

It’s the perfect spot to rosé (or pinot) all day

Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the cult-classic film Sideways brought worldwide fame for Santa Barbara wine country. Wine consumption increased in general while the demand for elegant, and highly quaffable, pinot noir shot up. The Oscar-winning movie was filmed almost entirely on-location throughout Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara County. Nowadays, you don’t need to trawl from vineyard to vineyard to get your hands on some of the destination’s celebrated bottles. Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail offers both novices and aficionados the opportunity to learn about and taste the wines of many different varieties and styles crafted by the County’s best winemakers. 30 wineries across the California city now make up the trail and can be explored by foot, bike or taxi.

Relax in the lap of luxury

Accommodation in Santa Barbara comes in many shapes and sizes. Curl up in a hillside hideaway like the iconic Belmond El Encanto, immerse yourself right in the action at Harbor View Inn’s brand new downtown wing or relax in the lap of luxury at Rosewood Miramar Beach Montecito, which opened just last year. On a budget? No bother. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, lies El Capitan Canyon, a resort boasting fully furnished cedar-lined cabins with vaulted ceilings and French doors opening onto El Capitan Beach and offering incredible ocean views.

Live the true California beach life

After soaking the city’s food and culture, it’s time to hit the beach. With miles of sun-drenched and sandy coastline, there’s a spot to suit every type of traveller, from surf-seekers to families. Dog lovers should head to Arroyo Burro Beach, better known to locals as Hendry’s Beach, where pooches revel on the dog-friendly flat sands. If surfing is your bag, Leadbetter Beach is best for catching waves, while sophisticates will enjoy the pristine sands of Butterfly Beach, where cocktails can be taken at the nearby Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. Heading closer to town, family-friendly East Beach is located next to Stearns Wharf, with lifeguard stations, a playground and cafés.

Australia January 11, 2020

Wake Up Here: University Arms, Cambridge

It might just be us, but isn’t January a bit of a slog? The mornings are dark, the jollity of the festive season has definitely waned and everything’s just a little bit flat. Unless one has a sunny holiday booked to look forward to, it’s a tough old month to claw the way through.

Thankfully there are gems like Cambridge’s University Arms to cocoon us from the harsh truths of winter. If you’re looking for a cosy, indulgent weekend escape, this might be the one.

Located in the historic heart of the city, the hotel reopened in 2018 after a serious facelift. Since opening in 1834 it’s been through several incarnations – we’ll gloss over the monstrosity that was the facade in the 60s – but architect John Simpson and interior designer Martin Brudnizki. Have remained faithful to original look and feel of the property, whilst bringing Martin’s signature English interiors; you’ll recognise his style if you’ve ever been to one of The Ivy restaurants.

The 192 rooms and suites are bedecked with bespoke leather-padded writing desks, low ottomans and tiered chandeliers in playful colours. Each of the suites, some of which occupy the top floor with balconies looking out over Parker’s Piece, have bookshelves individually curated around their subject by Mayfair’s Heywood Hill. Staying in the Darwin suite for the night, mine was resplendent with titles on nature, evolution and the British countryside, from huge coffee table Taschen tomes full of stunning botanical illustrations, to biographies from some of the world’s most eminent explorers.

It’s certainly cosy; our suite was home to an enormous velvet sofa, a little reading corner next to windows overlooking Cambridge’s famous green space Parker’s Piece and oh, the bed! King size, mountains of pillows, crisp white sheets. I bundled into it after a post-prandial bath, wrapped in the prerequisite fluffy robe, and was convinced I would never be able to get out again. The bathroom too is a stunner; underfloor heating, the most luxurious claw foot tub with its own pot of Dr Harris bath salts and his and hers sinks (the secret, my mother once told me, to a long and happy marriage).

The little details are what make locations like this next level spectacular; the branded chocolate left out in the room for an evening nibble, the tea mugs illustrated with a stunning line drawing of the property and the handmade box in which they rested, all in the hotel’s signature shade of almost Tiffany blue. Every little part of the room was beautiful.

Brudnizki’s signature style echoes throughout the whole hotel, not just in the rooms. The library features an original carved fireplace – the perfect spot for a morning coffee with the weekend papers – while original stained glass windows depicting scenes and crests Cambridge’s colleges can be found on each floor. Breakfast is served in Parker’s Tavern, designed to mimic a University dining room with its wooden tables and paintings depicting rowing scenes; a buffet affair with a serious selection of baked goods accompanied with all the usuals and a cooked and continental spread.

Ensure there’s time for you to enjoy dinner at Parker’s Tavern. Chef Tristan Welch has developed a menu of homely British classics, with some characterful reinterpretations. Having trained in Europe’s best kitchens alongside the likes of the late Gary Rhodes, Gordon Ramsay and Michel Roux Jnr, he returned home to Cambridge to cook the classics of his roots. He sources not just by what’s in season, but by what’s fresh each day, not just relying on local markets but on produce from farmers he knows by name.

My dinner was sublime. A slow-cooked truffled duck egg on toast with truffle mayo and sherry vinegar, followed by a delicate nut brown buttered sole with coastal herbs and brown shrimps and a Cambridge burnt cream for pudding. Divine.

So January doesn’t need to be that bad. Aside from the fact that Cambridge is a delightful city to explore for a weekend away, with hotels like University Arms to check in to, it’s a fairly easy decision to book yourself in.

Rooms from £164 per night.

University Arms is also offering a Valentine’s Package, available to book for the night of 14th February 2020. Rates from £335 based on two people sharing, including an overnight stay, a bottle of champagne and chocolates on arrival, a three course meal for two at Parker’s Tavern and late check-out.

For more information visit www.universityarms.com/valentines-day

Lifestyle January 11, 2020

Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Solo Travellers

Whether travelling for business or pleasure, it’s important to be prepared, not only making sure the simple things are covered such as remembering where you have hidden your passport or booking travel insurance, but also considering your safety in transit and at your destination.

The number of global travellers increases significantly each year and small changes in the approach to a trip can make a big difference for work and play. We got the inside information from experts in the travel security sphere for their top tips on how to stay safe when travelling.

Anna-Liisa Tampuu, Founder of SheTravel comments, “The modern world has transformed the way in which we work and travel. More often, business and leisure trips take us to destinations where the culture and traditions differ from our own, sometimes to remote locations which carry higher risk to personal safety. The key to safe travel is knowledge and research of the destination, maintaining situational awareness and understanding the environment.”

SheTravel has created a women only network for modern business travel, allowing its members to share information, destination guides and key tips to aid safe travel wherever the destination. By not only giving tips and advice but also creating a platform for women to ask questions and find advice from the community this is creating an open and safe forum for women who travel.

However, safety whilst travelling is not just a key concern for women but relates to anyone who travels whether they are backpacking, staying in 5* property or a corporate traveller.

We also got the inside information from Global Secure Accreditation (GSA) a company which is spearheading a new revolution in security in the hospitality industry. Working alongside the security teams at key hotels around the world it has introduced the world’s first truly independent system of hotel security accreditation. It has been established and operated by highly experienced former senior UK police officers, counter terrorism specialists, UK military and international security experts.

We asked David Wood, Managing Director of GSA to share his quick and simple top 10 tips on security when travelling, whether you are male or female, here is ten step accessible guide to keeping safety a priority when travelling, wherever your destination.

You might just find yourself adding something surprisingly simple into your hand luggage for your next trip!

• Dress modestly and appropriately to blend in, this doesn’t have to be excessive but just be aware of the cultural nuances of your destination

• Carry rubber doorstops to put under hotel room door and any adjoining door to prevent access from the outside if you feel you need an extra level of security

• Place chain on room door at all times

• Copy passport and keep paper and electronic copies with you or in a suitably safe location

• Do your homework, understand the culture, dress code and rules for the country you are visiting and be aware that these may differ for males and females

• If possible, request a room above ground floor, near the lift but away from stairwell/emergency exit

• Use an app-based taxi service which tracks journey, predicts price and takes money direct rather than cash. This then makes your location known and avoids the possibility of detours in a location you may be unfamiliar with

• Ensure others know your travel plans and are aware of your location

• Always buy your own food and drinks

• Be discrete about where you are staying and discussing your room number in a public forum

For further information visit gsaccreditation.com or shetravel.co.uk

Netherlands January 9, 2020

Buying a House Boat

It’s a wonderful dream for many people – abandoning the every day and investing in a floating home moored on a quiet waterway. But should you take the plunge? How easy is it to buy a houseboat – and what is involved in doing so?

In this article, the house sales specialists at quick home sale specialists Property Solvers will explain the steps you’ll need to take in order to purchase a houseboat, and what you must take into account before you do so.

Types of boat

Firstly, you’ll need to consider the kind of vessel you’re interested in purchasing. The term “houseboat” actually refers to floating accommodation that is permanently moored.

If you’re looking for something that you can sail from place to place, a narrowboat or Dutch barge may be preferable.

For something a little larger, river cruisers and yachts may appeal too.

Before you make your choice, you need to consider the following things:

Your budget
The purpose of the boat – i.e. do you wish for it to remain permanently moored or do you wish to travel?
Where you want your boat to go – i.e. are there moorings available locally? Do you have a boathouse? If you’re interested in a narrowboat, which canals do you wish to traverse? Some have short locks that will not accommodate longer vessels and some are too narrow for wide beam models.
Will you be living on your boat? If so, will this be full time or just for part of the year?

By using these questions as a checklist, you may find it easier to choose your ideal vessel.

Where to look

There are a number of ways to get hold of a houseboat. Here are the most common.

Have one made

If you have a good-sized budget and tight specifications in mind, you could commission a specialist to build your dream boat.

Go to boat shows

Research local and national boat shows online and ensure that the models on sale are likely to appeal to your tastes. You can then attend your chosen shows and take a look at what is on offer. Many sellers will let you climb aboard and have a look around.

Browse online listings and magazines

Sites like boats.com list both new and used boats of all types. You can take a look at the various models available by searching online, or you can subscribe to magazines such as Boat Trader to be updated on a monthly basis regarding vessels for sale.

Boats can also be purchased on sites such as eBay, but it’s important to ensure the quality of these second-hand vessels before you commit to a purchase.

Visit boatyards and dry docks or keep an eye out at marinas

Often, taking a simple trip to a location where multiple boats are moored, restored or cleaned can give you an idea of what is on offer. If a boat owner wishes to sell their vessel, they might post a notice in their window. Listings may also be displayed in boat yard offices or receptions.

Costs

Many people are drawn to living on water because it is considered much more affordable than owning or renting a regular house or flat. However, there will still be some expenses that you’ll need to cover.

The boat

The most affordable vessels are usually canal boats, sometimes starting at less than £5,000 for “fixer-uppers”. However, yachts can easily cost millions.

Your mooring

If you live on your boat, you may opt to be a “continuous cruiser”, which means that your boat must be moved once every 14 days (though this may vary depending on location) and you won’t have a set mooring.

However, most people rent a spot for their boat when they are not using it. Most commonly, these are available on 12 months or 3-year contracts.

Repairs and upgrades

If you’re buying a boat second hand, it may need a little work. You’ll also need to invest in its regular upkeep to ensure it remains safe. Take this into account when budgeting.

Getting your boat surveyed will reveal its true condition and will help you to understand what any repairs will cost.

Licenses

The type of licence you’ll need depends on where you plan to take your boat. For example, if you intend to traverse canals and other inland waterways, you’ll need a licence from the Canal & River Trust.

The Bridgewater Canal running through Manchester requires a separate licence, and the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads require boaters to pay an additional toll. Other waterways may have their own individual costs attached too.

Costs and licences vary across the UK, so do your research before you travel. A typical British Waterways licence costs around £400 per year.

Insurance

It’s vital that your boat is correctly insured before you use it. It’s a legal requirement that your boat has third party insurance to at least £2,000,000.

You also need to apply for a BSS (Boat Safety Scheme) certificate, which will cost you upwards of £100.

Tax

While most people assume that people living on boats don’t pay certain taxes, this isn’t always the case. You may be required to pay council tax if you have a permanent mooring in a particular area. Research the location of your mooring to see if this applies to you before you decide.

Of course, there are huge savings to be made when living on a house boat. In general, your power bills will be far lower than they would be if you owned a house or flat, for example.

If you don’t intend to live on your boat full time, it’s also possible to split the costs between multiple people by working out a shared ownership or “timeshare” style arrangement with friends.

You can apply for “marine loans” or mortgages if you don’t have the funds to pay for a boat upfront.

It’s important to be careful when purchasing a house boat. You need to determine whether the model you have chosen is suitable for your needs, you must budget correctly to ensure you can afford the boat itself and the other expenses that come with it and you’re also required to adhere to all required regulations.

However, if you’re informed and organised, a boat may be one of the most rewarding investments you could possibly make.

Travel January 7, 2020

48 hours in the Lake District with Whitbarrow

Ever wonder what’s so charming about the Lake District? Well, the clue’s in the name.

Around sixteen supersize lakes are scattered among timeless villages, cascading waterfalls and thatched roof cottages. In the thick of it is Whitbarrow, just ten miles away from Lakes town mainstay Keswick and on the doorstep of the area’s adventure.

The Luxury Lodges is an idyllic base for all of that, and lends itself to whatever kind of trip you can think of – romantic weekend, digital detox with mates (and wine), or even a countryside getaway with the fam. It’s simple, yet indulgent….

They have a range of lodgings available – from actual cottages to more modest apartments. We stayed at The Den – one of the more roomy spaces – which is geared around family with its fun mishmash of hidden doors and woodland walls. In one of the bedrooms there’s even a secret hideaway, accessed by a ladder, with a Lego wall, blackboard, books and toys – and outside there’s even stuff for the kids to do. Jokes aside there was a bottle of Champagne when we arrived, so they know how to speak our language too.

One of the biggest surprises wasn’t the secret hideaway, it was the modern and luxurious feel for the place – which comes as standard throughout all of their properties (their name literally is Luxury Lodges, so we should’ve known). There’s a choice of six spots in the Lakes, including this one, each with their own charm – and some even with private hot tubs, which is something else that might take you by surprise.

Stays in The Den at Luxury Lodges Whitbarrow start from £555 for a two-night stay

Book: www.luxurylodges.com

Adventures January 7, 2020

wake up here: Anantara Iko Resort, Mauritius

Nestled on the serine south-eastern coast of Mauritius you will find Le Chaland Beach, an unspoilt stretch of golden sand lying alongside a rich, deep turquoise ocean that is home to Anantara Iko Resort.

This sun kissed island in the Indian Ocean is magical and doesn’t disappoint. It lived up to everything I expected, unblemished shorelines, natural wonders, culture and a dash of luxury courtesy of Anantara, a new deluxe five-star resort that successfully combines authentic Mauritius with high end sustainable chic.

Just 100m from the beach and enveloped in a lush green nature reserve, this secluded hotel has made a conscious effort to blend in with its stunning surroundings and where possible use sustainable initiatives to preserve the natural environment. The resort successfully brings the beauty of the outdoors indoors using lots of locally sourced materials around the property. Recycled volcanic stone combined with a scattering of driftwood crafted by local artisans, touch everything from the reception, bedrooms and restaurants. At the heart of the resort is the spectacular 30-metre ozone-based infinity pool which uses fewer chemicals and is more efficient than a regular pool. Other eco touches include solar technology for water heating in all the guest rooms, water is reused for irrigation and cleaning and the food waste goes out to local farms.

Each of the 164 stylish rooms and suites are spacious and sophisticated with clean lines and minimal décor enhanced with a splash of ocean blue and wood making it feel warm and welcoming. Wake up and take in the views of the Indian Ocean or flourishing tropical gardens direct from your day bed on the balcony. For me the measure of a hotel is in the bathroom and I loved the large double sinks and rain shower but the jewel in the crown was the free standing bathtub that dominated the room, perfect for a long soak at the end of the day. Eight luxury Pool Villas will be available to book from April 2020.

Anantara is a foodie’s dream, under the watchful eye of Executive Chef, Didier Jacob the resort offers multiple dining options that reflect the island’s rich cultural heritage. Taste the authentic flavours and influences of Mauritius at one of the amazing five restaurants. For me, staying at Anantara was a real culinary experience. I got to jump into the Island’s foodie culture and savour cuisine with French, Indian and Creole influences. A huge highlight was the private dining offer where you can indulge in something a bit special with your own bespoke menu, personal chef and private butler. The hotel set up a private table on the beach where I got to soak up the remarkable setting, outstanding views of the ocean and enjoy some delicious dishes under the stars.

It’s easy to relax at Anantara, kick back and get into the Mauritian vibe. The team of attentive staff quickly make you feel welcome and go all out to make sure you enjoy your stay. Reset and reconnect at the onsite spa where you can unwind with a range of therapeutic treatments including traditional massage therapies, detox treatments and hammam wellness. My energy levels are always high and at times I struggle to wind it down a notch so retreating to the spa was a great way for me to switch off and slow down. I soon loosened up with one of the signature massages and a few days into my stay I was back for the hammam treatment, I left feeling relaxed yet invigorated.

There’s plenty to do on this south east corner of the island, if you don’t want to relax on the beach or by the pool. Just 15 minutes’ drive away is Mahebourg, a cute picture postcard town with a pretty harbour and vibrant, bustling market, perfect for exploring. Don’t leave without swimming in the Indian Ocean, take a catamaran trip to get a unique view of this beautiful island, catch the sunset and go for a swim before heading back to shore. Mauritius is steeped in history and the hotel hosts campfire chats on the beach after dinner with their resident ‘Man in Mauritius’, Marcel Noe, who brings to life the island’s historic battles between the British and French. Enjoy the anecdotal tales delivered with knowledge and passion while roasting marshmallows over the fire. A little further away is Black River Gorges National Park, famous for its waterfalls, vistas and hiking, and for the more adventurous, quad biking and zip lining.

Whether you’re a beach lover, culture and history buff, nature enthusiast, foodie or sporty adventurer, Anantara has something for everyone and I can’t way to go back. Mauritius you really were something special!

A stay at Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort costs from £335 (390 Euros) per room per night on a half board basis. For more information visit www.anantara.com

Adventures January 5, 2020

Gondwana Game Reserve, South Africa: A Photo Diary

Nothing says romance quite like a luxury safari – which is why for our girl Beth’s honeymoon – we sent her to check out Gondwana Game Reserve in South Africa for our Coco Couples series. Just a 4-hour drive from cosmopolitan Cape Town, a few days of wild luxury here are an ideal add on to any South African itinerary centred around the Western Cape and Garden route. Read our full review here.

Gondwana Game Reserve www.gondwanagr.co.za; rooms start from R2610 / ca. £160 per person sharing incl. half board, game drive + Junior Ranger program

Pakistan January 4, 2020

8 UK Sights and Attractions Not to Miss in 2020

It’s not necessary to travel across the globe to seeing amazing sites. We are blessed with a large number of attractions right here in the UK.

From film studios to historic palaces, museums to breath-taking nature, there is something for everyone across the UK. Here are the top 8 UK sights and attractions you need to put on your list for 2020 if you haven’t already seen them.

1. Edinburgh Castle

The historic royal seat of Scotland is an imposing fortress which sits high on a hill, Castle Hill, above Edinburgh. The site has been occupied since the Iron Age, and parts of today’s castle date back to the 12th century. Visitors can see many grand and historic parts of the castle, including the Great Hall, the Argyle Battery and Portcullis Gate. There are also exhibitions on the rich history of the castle and the Royal Scots.

2. Harry Potter World

The Harry Potter Studios at Warner Brothers London has become one of the UK’s leading attractions in recent years. The tour of the studio includes real sets, props and costumes in the ultimate immersive experience. Located at Watford and easily reached from central London, this extremely popular attraction can sell out up to months in advance. However, you can get last minute Harry Potter tickets online even when they are sold out on the official site.

3. Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall stretches 73 miles from coast to coast in Northern England. Originally build to protect the north-west frontier of the Roman Empire, today it stands near modern-day Carlisle and many remains of the wall, forts, tower and turrets can still be seen, as well as archaeological sites of the important towns which developed near the wall. Visiting the wall offers the opportunity to see a glimpse into UK history dating back nearly two thousand years, as well as walking the rugged landscape of the area.

4. The Lake District

One of the jewels of the English countryside, the Lake District has long been a favourite of ramblers and nature-lovers. The largest National Park in England, the Lake District National Park became a World Heritage Site in 2017 in recognition of the importance of this pristine and beautiful area. The park has excellent walking through lush countryside, beautiful lakes and spectacular mountains, including England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike. Fascinating sights here include Castleriggstone circle, Bronze Age standing stones.

5. The V&A

One of London’s finest but often overlooked museums, the Victoria & Albert Museum, or the V&A as it is commonly called, is a literal treasure trove of art, artefacts and other design items. The museum’s permanent collections span all kinds of art and design, including painting, photographs, jewellery, textiles, clothing and more, and there are new and exciting temporary exhibitions all the time. Entry is free and it is open just about every day, so there’s no excuse not to drop in for a visit while you’re in London.

6. The Giant’s Causeway

Located just outside the town of Bushmills on the northern coast of Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder that should be on everyone’s bucket list. This dramatic structure is made up of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that stretch from the shore out to the sea. The columns are believed to have been formed during an ancient volcanic and are collected in three separate rock outcrops, the largest being the Grand Causeway. The site also has other natural wonders formed in the rock, such as the Wishing Chair and the Giant’s Boot.

7. Mount Snowdon

If Wales is famous for one thing it is probably its jagged peaks and stunning mountain ranges. The tallest of these with an elevation of 1,085 meters above sea level is Mount Snowdon, a long-time favourite for hikers and ramblers. SnowdoniaNational Park in northern Wales offers dramatic landscapes and incredible views from its hiking trails, which include those for various abilities from novice to advanced. Along with hiking, the park also offers excellent climbing and world-class mountain biking facilities.

8. Loch Lomond

Britain’s largest lake has been somewhat and unfairly overshadowed by its more controversial sister, Loch Ness. Though not as well known, Loch Lomond is a beautiful spot for ramblers, water sports enthusiasts and nature-lovers. Located not far to the northwest of Glasgow, the lake is also paradise for anglers, brimming with trout, salmon and whitefish. The area offers beautiful hiking trails including up the impressive Ben Lomond to discover incredible views across Trossachs National Park.