Travel - House Of Coco Magazine

Adventures December 31, 2019

5 All-Inclusive Vegas Hotels to Relax and Have Fun in 2020

The moment Las Vegas is dropped in a conversation, what comes into mind is a perpetual instance of fun and entertainment. This is right since most epic Hollywood movies that have gained airplay have presented a picturesque Las Vegas background that everyone would like to associate with at least once in a lifetime. Blockbusters like “What happens in Vegas” are some of the examples.

Now imagine you are free and away from a busy work schedule. Where else can you go to have fun and get entertained? The answer to such a query is simple!

Vegas provides both. Here is a comprehensive list of Vegas Hotels to have fun and relax either solo or with friends/family in 2020.

Caesar’s Palace

Caesar’s Palace is one of the best hotels located along the Vegas strip. It is a flagship of entertainment and excitement that has been around for close to 52 years. Over the years, it has continued to expand, bringing in different sensual effects that make it even more spectacular.

According to OnlineCasinoGems.com, a practical budget before arriving and enjoying the establishment’s fine cocktails, saves you stress both financially and mentally. While here at Caesar’s Palace, if you are a gambling fun, a planned budget helps you settle for the best deposit match bonuses. Thus, a sound financial plan helps to commence the build-up of winnings through involving in popular tournaments like blackjack.

What’s more, this hotel has expanded to incorporate 4300 seats for a live performance venue, dining restaurants, eateries, and a food court. Also, it has a garden of the God pool oasis, a touch of class spa and a salon, world-class towers, among others.

Therefore, with all this in place, what else can hinder you from having fun and getting entertained? Caesar’s Palace ensures that you will have much fun ranging from its tasty cuisines and magical shows to pleasant resting parlors that make you experience the ideal Hollywood.

MGM Grand Hotel

MGM Grand Hotel is one of the constituents that make Vegas the Vegas it is. It is an attraction itself since it accommodates the world-renown MGM Grand casino. However, if you think that is all, I suppose you might be wrong. It harbors a lot of entertainment platforms that leave you in a full vacation mode without leaving the establishment.

The hotel rooms are cost-friendly and have a sleek design. Thus, if you are willing to pay some extra bucks, you can have it all. It has a great view overlooking the spectacular Vegas Strip.

Imagine its at night, and all the glamorous Vegas lights are glittering. What’s more, the MGM Grand has stay-well suits designed with spectacular amenities like aromatherapy, shower infusers, and complimentary flavored water. Therefore, when you are within the place, you’ll no doubt enjoy a sweet breeze adding to the wonderful time in the hotel.

If you’ve found the best rates anywhere else, then they will match MGM’s with no doubt. If you are on a fixed budget, MGM Grand offers a 15% off from the standard room rates. However, you need to book 45 days in advance to get that overwhelming discount.

Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino

The hotel located along the Vegas strip is one of the glamorous ones of a kind you’ll ever encounter. Its rooms are large suites with immense windows to let you experience the exotic nature of the place and, at the same time, view welcoming bright and vibrant colors from the building.

Perhaps you thought that the hotel’s sleek design is all that makes it prominent; that’s not true. While in Rio, there are lots of entertainments that relax you. For instance, you’ll come across the mind-boggling magic from Penn and Teller, which causes you screaming and holding your immediate neighbor tightly after an exciting yet scary show.

Many casino hotels in Vegas offer amazing performances and shows each night just like Rio does. Check out this list of the most famous shows at casinos in Vegas.

Apart from enjoying the breathtaking entertainment in Rio’s Penn & Teller theatre, having a wonderful time here is not an option. Choose your entertainment platform and let fun and excitement be the order of the day while you are in this hotel.

Paris Las Vegas

Paris is widely acknowledged with endless entertainment, which leaves many people yearning to set their feet in France and experience the controversial feeling highly hyped. However, Vegas has made it possible due to the iconic Paris Las Vegas hotel.

The rooms in the Paris Las Vegas Hotel have been revamped with an additional 1600 guestrooms, which brings the total number to 2900. Regardless of the season, chances of missing an opportunity to stay over and enjoy the series of entertainment and feel relaxed at the hotel are zero. The 2900 revamped guestrooms combine a touch of class European elegance with present-day flair.

It hosts the burgundy rooms, which are luxurious and cost-friendly when viewed on the other end of the spectrum. They have the classy feel of French with brighter pops of colors, and picturesque marble countertops give the place an ideal Paris experience.

The Mirage

It is one of Las Vegas’s landmarks. The hotel is widely acknowledged for its volcano-like fountain that spews water and steam through the incorporation of lights, which makes it look like an erupting volcano. It’s an eye-catching and exciting place to enjoy and have fun with the family.

If the impressive fountain is what you meet at the outside, imagine what you’ll encounter inside the hotel. The hotel rooms feature a comfortable yet peaceful design. While some hotels may offer gimmicks, here, you’ll have the ideal taste.

While you are at the hotel, there are lots of entertainment platforms options. For instance, either the Mirage volcano view or the strip will do you good, depending on the room you choose. It has all you need for a luxurious experience ranging from ambient lighting to Bluetooth speakers.

Closing Remark

Like the «Die Hard» casino gamers, all the Vegas hotels offer overwhelming bonuses to their clients. All you need to do is to learn and understand the bonuses, redeem them, and use to your advantage anytime you wish to visit Las Vegas hotels and casinos. Thus, if you want to have fun and feel relaxed, don’t limit yourself, Vegas has everything you need.

Travel December 31, 2019

Top Tips to Make Your First Visit to the USA Run Smoothly

Here at House of Coco we are obsessed with traveling to the USA. Whether it’s for a cheeky weekend in New York city to party the night away in Brooklyn or its to relax at a world renowned spa in California, the USA is our playground. We love the land of opportunity and we are always flying over to the states to fulfil our desire for adventure. With new hotels opening all of the time, there is always an excuse for us to fly back over the pond to have some time out.

We can be found catching flights more than we catch feelings so we can often become complacent and just assume that we know everything there is to know when it comes to travel and sometimes we get caught up in the moment that we forget the basics. So here we have put together our fool proof guide to making sure your first visit to the USA runs smoothly.

Tick all of these things off before you travel and we will guarantee that your first trip to the USA will run smoothly.

Make sure you have your ESTA

Each country has different laws when it comes to Visas and America is no different. You will need your ESTA, this is the Electronic System for Travel Authorization which is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. No ESTA means no entry! You can apply easily online and it can sometimes take up to 72 hours to get a response so make sure you allow yourself enough time to do this, but often you will find out in just a matter of hours.

People say don’t forget your toothbrush but we say don’t forget to get your ESTA. Plus, your ESTA is a cheaper and easier alternative to getting a Visa so it makes sense the remove any additional costs or hassles.

Americans expect tips

Whilst not mandatory in most of the USA, it is customary in many circumstances for service, especially if you are in a sit down restaurant with table service because the staff rely on tips as an essential part of their wage. Tipping 15-20% is usually acceptable but be prepared to get dirty looks if you go under this, whilst it’s not mandatory the staff can be offended when you tip low or, if you’re feeling brave, don’t tip at all.

Dining out in America isn’t particularly cheap so we would recommend checking out the restaurants you plan on visiting, researching their menu online and then working out the cost to eat there plus tips and tax, once you do that, the mega deal at that steakhouse might not be quite so appealing.

Plan ahead

Each state in America is massive so without a plan ahead of your visit you might just get lost on the open road and waste valuable time trying to decide what to do and where to go.Whether you like casinos, beaches, festivals, history or nature, the USA will not disappoint. Research each state online before making any decisions on where to go. But the main bit of research you will need to stick to is your ESTA form, without filling this out and getting your ESTA, you won’t be able to enter the country.

The USA is filled with adventure and opportunity so whilst planning ahead is neccessary, you also want to allow for spontaneity and surprise, so be ready to just go with the flow. Chances are you will make friends along the way as Americans are so friendly and welcoming so your new besties might have some suggestions and insights that you have not even thought about.

Be prepared to be wowed when you visit for the first time, seeing all of the amazing things you have only seen on the TV will be jaw droopingly amazing and you will fall in love with the USA immediately.

With so much choice you can be overwhelmed when it comes to arranging a trip to the USA, but once you are armed with all of this information, your ESTA and a desire to explore then you are ready to go and experience the adventure that awaits you in America.

Australia December 20, 2019

Wake Up Here: voco St David’s, Cardiff

Cardiff is a city in the UK that our writer Rachel McAlley had never visited and it was on her 2019 bucket list, so when she was asked if she would like to stay at the contemporary voco St David’s on behalf of House of Coco Magazine she jumped at the chance.

The drive from Yorkshire took a whopping 7 and half hours, but when she arrived she couldn’t have asked for a better welcome.

I arrived with my fiancé and our daughter to a very warm welcome from the check-in team. We were offered Welsh Cakes as a gift upon arrival, which were super tasty and a wonderful treat to enjoy at reception.

The Christmas decorations adorned the front of the hotel and inside the main lobby area, with a number of stunning Christmas trees dotted around the seating and lift areas, all twinkling and bright.

We were offered a hand with luggage to our first floor room, and once on the first floor we realised how stunning the atrium was, with a view overlooking the entire atrium from the ground floor to the top floor, and once in the room our view was of the waterfront at Cardiff Bay and all the boats moored in the bay area.

After checking out the gorgeous room, with two double beds, large flat-screen TV, good-sized table and excellent wardrobe space, we decided to unpack and head straight to the leisure facilities and have a swim in the voco St David’s swimming pool.

Plenty of fun was had in the pool, a relaxing swim and a little time spent in the Jacuzzi before heading into the changing rooms to get ready for dinner. We popped our swim gear back in the hotel room and went for a pre-dinner drink in the hotel restaurant followed by dinner. It was filled with happy revellers at their annual Christmas party, which meant that the atmosphere was electric and buzzing with talk of shopping, presents and Santa.

The restaurant was a seriously comfortable place to dine with large sofas and wide relaxing chairs at each table, with oodles of space between tables, and even though every single table was taken, there was never a sense of chaos or being rushed to leave, we spent a good 2 hours at the table enjoying dinner.

We opted for salt and pepper calamari, a bread basket, and san choy bow (lettuce and spicy beef wraps) to start with, followed by a rib eye steak, house burger, and kids chicken lollipops, and we were too full for dessert! The lettuce and spicy beef wraps and the steak were the standout dishes from the meal.

Back to the room, for an evening of TV, a cup of tea, and a great night’s sleep in the comfiest of beds.

Breakfast was served in the restaurant and was one of the best we have had in a long time, the selection was vast and spanned across two different restaurant rooms with breads and pastries being served on the bar, fruit, cereal, cheese, juices and yoghurts from a large table in the bar area, and hot food including the full Welsh breakfast, pancakes, and waffles in a side restaurant room.

The breakfast really was something to rave on about, and the choices were immense, plus an extra menu for all the dishes not served on the hot plates including; eggs Benedict, porridge, kippers, vegan dishes and more from the on table menu. What a great way to kick start the day.

We decided to venture into Cardiff for a browse and to do some sightseeing. We started the day by taking a lovely brisk walk from voco St David’s across to Mermaid Bay where we caught the water bus around the bay area into Cardiff Castle gardens, where we embarked and enjoyed a stroll into the city.

After a day spent Christmas shopping, visiting St David’s shopping centre, and the gorgeous quaint streets of High Street Arcade, Royal Arcade, and Castle Quarter Arcade, we spent the late afternoon wandering the Cardiff Christmas Market which was filled with the smell of mulled wine, and German hot dogs – and a wonderful Christmassy atmosphere.

Once back at voco St David’s we dressed for dinner and booked a table at the hotel restaurant for our final evening in Cardiff Bay. There was a lovely singer performing an ambient selection of songs in the restaurant whilst we dined and watched the Saturday evening go by.

Post dinner we took a sneaky peak at the Christmas party room that was in full swing, and it looked fantastic, each table was covered with pretty festive place settings and Christmas crackers.

Back to the hotel room for a little Saturday night TV, and an emotional 8 year old who didn’t want to leave Voco St David’s the following morning.

Checkout was as easy and wonderful as check-in, with the reception team chatting about our visit to Cardiff and our thoughts on the hotel, which I can honestly say were excellent.

Perfect for business, ideal for a couples getaway, and fantastic for families – what more you do you need from a hotel in the capital of Wales.

If you are thinking of visiting Cardiff in the near future we can’t recommend the 5-Star voco St David’s highly enough, from the friendly and welcoming staff to the comfortable spacious room, and the tasty restaurant food to the remarkable Cardiff Bay location, this really is a stunning hotel with breathtaking views and an unbelievably relaxed and contemporary ethos.

Visit https://stdavids.vocohotels.com to book your stay today.

Beauty December 18, 2019

The french skin care secret you need to know about

Ever noticed that French women have gorgeous skin? I am yet to meet a French woman who doesn’t glow like they’ve just had a facial. For years I put it down to good diet and genetics until a recent trip to the Mont-Blanc region. While I was there, I visited Les Thermes Spa in Saint-Gervais and here I discovered the secret to great skin.

Since 1807, the thermal baths in Saint-Gervais, Mont-Blanc boast the benefits of spring water, a natural resource that runs from the Mont-Blanc mountain range. The Saint-Gervais thermal spring waters are high in sulphur and have acquired minerals and trace elements during their millennia-long journey through the alpine underground meaning they’re bursting with benefits that support healthy, radiant skin. For nearly 6,000 years, these natural spring waters have run beneath the rocks of Mont-Blanc before springing to the surface at a temperature of exactly 39 degrees.

Located at the foot of the Mont-Blanc, in a magnificent 10-hectare tree lined park Les Thermes Spa uses thermal water famous for its healing properties to treat skin complaints, heal, restore, soothe and balance the skins epidermis. The French are ahead of the curve when it comes to skincare, it’s part of their culture with French girls and boys practicing good skincare habits as early as age 10.

The Spa has a clinic, made up of medical professionals such as dermatologists, ENT specialists, Physiotherapists and General Practitioners that use the thermal water and its numerous healing properties to treat skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, scarring as well as asthma, tonsillitis, and burns.
I got to spend the afternoon at Les Thermes and experience the spa and thermal baths. The spa programme takes you on a wellness journey through relaxation workshops, saunas at different temperatures, steam baths and several indoor and outdoor pools all using thermal water and each delivering a unique sensory experience.

The ground floor at Les Thermes is inspired by the water’s journey through the depths of the earth combining an indoor and outdoor zone where you follow a sequence of hydro experiences taking in plunge pools, hydro pools and a warm jacuzzi. The outdoor setting is spectacular, pools and sauna cabins are flanked by lush gardens and greenery with breath-taking views of the mountains. This relaxing environment awakens all the senses yet has a calm vibe that comes from being in such a beautiful location. Upstairs in the spa, you’ll find light and sound booths, a relaxing herbal tea room and steam rooms. This floor is dedicated to sensations and represents water throughout the seasons using light and sound. The spa also offers a range of massages and treatments with thermal water at the heart of each one.

After a couple of hours experiencing the hydro pools and thermal baths, I emerged feeling recharged and relaxed. I immediately noticed the difference in my skin, normally after swimming or going to the spa I suffer from tight, itchy skin but mine felt soft and after a day my eczema appeared less red. The skin care range at Les Thermes compliments the treatments and because our skin is unique, they have their own dedicated area to diagnose your skin type and help you find the products best suited to your skin and needs. The team of advisors take you through their skin care range which uses 100% thermal water combined with alpine plant extracts. My skin can suffer from breakouts and I’m reluctant to try anything new in case it irritates me, but I loved these products. After just two weeks using the cleanser my skin had fewer blemishes and friends commented on how well I looked. Their 24h Hydrating Serum healed some small patches of eczema and left my skin plump and glowing with that ‘je ne sais quoi’ air that French women effortlessly rock.

House of Coco travelled to Saint Gervais courtesy of Savoie Mont-Blanc www.savoie-mont-blanc.com
For more information on Les Thermes, Saint Gervais visit www.thermes-saint-gervais.com

Belize December 12, 2019

4 private islands you simply must visit

Travelling to a private island sounds like the epitome of luxury travel. What could be more relaxing than exploring an unspoilt tropical island, snorkelling in the sea and looking for shells along the powdery white beach? Whilst many people assume that the dream of private island travel is out of reach, some private island resorts are surprisingly affordable. In reality, there’s a private island for everyone, with many catering to families and groups of friends as well as affluent couples. Here are some of the best…

1. Tetiaroa, French Polynesia

Accessed by a seven-seater private plane or helicopter, Tatiaroa is a string of 12 islands a located 30 miles north of Tahiti. On one of these islands, you’ll find The Brando – a luxury resort made up of 35 beachfront villas. The rest of the atoll is untouched.

Tetiaroa was purchased by actor Marlon Brando in 1966 after he visited Tahiti to film Mutiny on the Bounty. Today’s resort, which opened in 2014, seeks to continue his vision that this dream atoll remains unspoilt. The resort is exquisitely Polynesian and has beautiful white-sand beaches where you can spot sea turtles, manta rays and exotic birds.

Each guest is provided with their own bicycle to explore the island, and families are welcome to stay too.

2. Cayo Espanto, Belize

Cayo Espanto is a private island resort located just off the coast of Belize which features just seven villas. It’s accessed via a seven-minute boat ride from San Pedro, Belize’s second largest island. Just four acres in size, the island has the feel of a castaway dessert island, but with more than a hint of luxury.Each bohemian beach shack on the island features a large veranda where you can enjoy an evening meal, a modern outdoor shower and a private heated infinity pool.

Staff are summoned via a walkie talkie and arrange everything you could need, from arranging excursions via a helicopter to a babysitter for the night.

3. Beachcomber Island, Fiji

If the thought of a private island sounds a little dull, then you’ve never heard of Fiji’s Beachcomber island.Every night the music is pumping, the bar is open late and the dancefloor is packed until the small hours. In addition to a great party, you can also relax and enjoy the white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters that Fiji is famed for.

Perfect for couples, families and groups of friends alike, Beachcomber island has accommodation to suit all. Budget travellers and backpackers can stay in the 42-bed Grand Dorm, whilst families can enjoy a private lodge. For something special, opt to stay in an oceanfront bure just steps away from the beach.

Parents can enjoy two hours of free babysitting each evening and there are lots of activities for families to enjoy too such as mini golf, beach volleyball and dance competitions.

4. Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

A handful of private islands are owned by cruise lines and are only accessible to cruise passengers. One such island is Royal Caribbean’s 140-acre island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. The island recently underwent a $200 million refurbishment which saw the addition of some incredible features including the tallest water slide in North America, a 1,600-foot zip line and the largest freshwater swimming pool in the Bahamas.

The island is only equipped for day visitors currently, with cruise ships docking at the island’s pier in the morning and departing in the evening. However, the cruise line is considering making the island available for overnight stays in the future.

This private island has something for everyone, with private luxury cabanas available to hire, a huge kids’ splash park with slides, water cannons and tipping buckets, and lots of beautiful beaches to enjoy.

Where would you choose?

Whether you have a Champagne lifestyle or a lemonade budget, there’s a private island for you. If you want total isolation, a non-stop party atmosphere, or something in between, a private island can provide everything you dream of for your next getaway. Which one would you choose?

This guest post was provided by Simon Hansen from Family Travel Planet.

Adventures December 9, 2019

Eastern Promises: Why 2020 is the Year to Visit Japan

With the Olympic and Paralympic Games taking place in Tokyo 2020, Japan is gearing up for a busy year ahead. Regardless of the games, Japan is a year-round destination with a number of events and new launches taking place in the new year from a welcome new flight route to competitive cycling events to much anticipated Art Triennale’s.

Japan has an overwhelming amount to offer in terms of sightseeing, culture, cuisine, nature and in particular, sports this coming year. It’s been on my bucket list for eternity and below is a list of reasons why I will finally be visiting Japan in 2020.

Ahead of the 2020 Games

First-ever Nintendo Tokyo store 2019

Nintendo Tokyo will be Nintendo’s first-ever store opening on 22 November inside the highly anticipated, brand new Shibuya Parco shopping complex alongside a new Pokémon Centre store. The shop will carry an extensive line of the exclusive game and character merchandise alongside interactive demo stations.

New flight route to Sapporo 19/20

Finnair is launching its new flight route from London to Sapporo via Helsinki which will be operating twice weekly from 15 December 2019 until 27 March 2020. Previously powder hounds have had to change in Tokyo before flying on to Hokkaido Island. This new route will cut costs, as well as travel times by at least two hours. Flights from £534pp.

Around the 2020 Games

Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games

The Olympics will be taking over Japan from 24 July to 9 August and the Paralympics from 25 August to 6 September as the country hosts the Games for a second time since 1964. An estimated 206 nations will be participating in the grand opening ceremony on 24 July 2020 in Tokyo. 33 sports will be participating in the games with five new sports being added to the list this year – baseball/softball, karate, skateboarding, sports climbing and surfing.

Luxury Hotel Openings 2020

With the Aman, Kyoto and new Hoshino Resort, Risonare, in Nasu having opened at the beginning of this month there are many more luxury hotel openings to follow ahead of the 2020 Games. Next year will see the debut of new accommodation such as; the Ace Hotel in Kyoto; Hyatt hotels in Yokohama, Niseko and Kanazawa; Hotel Fauchon in Kyoto; Marriot Hotel in Nara; and Ritz-Carlton properties in Nikko and Niseko 2020, and Fukuoka 2023.

Energizing Tokyo at the Palace Hotel Tokyo

Palace Hotel Tokyo is getting into the spirit of wellness in line with the Olympic and Paralympic Games 2020. The hotel has set up a wellness getaway that comes replete with an à la carte menu of fitness pursuits to refresh the mind and body and allow visitors to experience the city in a very active healthy way. Spa packages start from £1,227.

Nippon 2020 Cultural Olympics

Tokyo 2020 Nippon Festival has been created to build energy around the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The festival welcomes people and cultures from around Japan and beyond to interact and celebrate the Games, events will be organised to encourage diversity and regeneration in the Tohoku region opening new gateways and introducing new possibilities for Japan.

Beyond the 2020 Games

Japan Cup Cycle Road Race, 18 October 2020

The Japan Cup Cycle is a premier cycling race that attracts thousands of fans each year and a host of Tour de France competitor teams taking place in the race. The beautiful circuit goes around Utsunomiya and Mount Kogashiyama, it is the traditional end-of-season event in the sport showcasing unique Japanese landscapes and towns.

Sapporo International Art Festival, 19 December 2020 – 14 February 2021

The Sapporo International Art Festival (SIAF) is an artistic event held in Sapporo every three years. Going into its third year SIAF2020 will be held during the winter months having previously been held between summer and autumn. The theme of the festival is ‘Of Roots and Clouds’ and will promote local creativity via contemporary and media art whilst promoting what the city has to offer other than snow and winter.

Echigo Tsumari Art Triennale 2021, Niigata

Located in Niigata Prefecture, Echigo Tsumari Art Triennale will be taking place again in 2021 during the summer. Between 100 to 200 new art pieces are created and exhibited in addition to the permanent installations throughout the area’s 760 square kilometre rural landscape. The art festival aims to bring people back to the area after the 2004 earthquake and involve the local population in sustainable attractions.

Studio Ghibli Theme Park, 2022

The widely anticipated illustrations of the Studio Ghibli Theme Park have been revealed and look fantastic. Located in EXPO Park in Nagakute City, Nagoya, it is expected to have five themed areas, including Princess Mononoke and Howl’s Moving Castle. Japanese anime film creator Hayao Miyazaki is working on the park’s creative side, his lyrical and allusive works won both critical and popular acclaim resulting in the theme park expected to be a huge hit.

For more information, please visit www.japan.travel.en.uk

Dog-friendly December 6, 2019

Wake Up Here: A dog-friendly stay at the Chapel House Penzance

If you’re looking to plan the PERFECT doggy road trip with your four-legged best friend, look no further, because #TeamCocopup Charlie has got you covered. We embarked – on what could potentially be – the dreamiest dog-friendly road trip ever created. Our next stop takes us to Penzance for some quintessential village living at Chapel House.

The Chapel House is like a home away from home in Penzance and is perfectly located in one of the town’s most delightful streets. You won’t find a better base to explore this alluring coastal town. Across the street from Chapel House, there is the aforementioned chapel, and a few steps up the road there is the Admiral Benbo (which features a peculiar figurine on its roof) and the Cornish Kitchen.

The Chapel House itself occupies an impressive Georgian building, which was originally built in 1790. Some of its most notable residents include Admiral Samuel hood Linzee of the HMS Temeraire, and Penzance’s own influential Carne family. Today, Chapel House is a vision of modern luxury. Inside the main house, you will find all of the house’s original features imbued with a touch of modern elegance. The main house is bathed in natural light and reflects the same colour palette as the calming sea views in the harbour. There is a stunning drawing room, a quirky kitchen area, and an outdoor area that also has a jacuzzi perfect for slightly chilly autumn evenings.

We stayed in the newly refurbished duplex rooms, which featured a minimalist bedroom on the ground floor and an open plan living/dining room in the second floor. Here you can see panoramic views of Penzance, or simply cosy up on the couch. TeamCocopup Charlie immediately found his spot right by the log burner, and enjoyed the village walks around the lovely town of Penzance.

Don’t leave Penzance without indulging in some fish and chips at Fraser’s, which is one of the UK’s most sustainable chippies. Located just a (literal) stone’s throw away from the ocean, Fraser’s offers the freshest fish around and also some organic doggy ice cream for your pups too. This family-run establishment has won the coveted Harbour Lights award and also has some gluten free options.

www.chapelhousepz.co

Brazil December 4, 2019

Wake Up Here: Zemi Beach House, Anguilla

Nestled just north of St Maarten and 100 miles south east of the British Virgin Islands, Anguilla might not be the obvious choice when it comes to booking a Caribbean getaway, but for unpretentious solitary luxury away from the traditional tourist trail, it can’t be beaten.

This dream of an island suffered a battering at the hands of Hurricane Irma in 2017 but she’s back shining brighter than ever, with icing sugar beaches, a gastronomy scene among the best in the Caribbean and some stunning accommodations, from easy beachfront living to serious refined luxury.

Zemi Beach House falls towards the latter. Situated on Shoal Bay East in the north east of the island, it’s home to only 65 rooms across its six acres. The beachfront property is the very epitome of intimate; while its sprawling suites and beach villas might afford you all the space you need, the layout of the resort still feels deliciously private.

An experience anchored in tropical luxury, rooms are designed drawing inspiration from nature, with cane furniture, muted tones, Brazilian wood furnishings and sinks created from petrified wood in the enormous bathrooms. Each also has a view of the sea, the pleasure in which is not to be underestimated when enjoying a sundowner on your balcony and listening to the waves lap the shore.

For those who might be travelling en famille, the villas – opening out on to the beach – come equipped with full kitchens, laundry facilities, private pool access and the option to keep your fridge fully stocked throughout your visit. Alternatively the penthouse suites – favoured by certain A-listers, we heard – offer an unrivalled experience of rooftop pools and uninterrupted views of the bay.

Zemi’s spa is one of its stunning selling points. Built around a 300 year old Thai house that was trasported from Chiang Mai and rebuilt on the island, piece by piece, it offers an authentic Thai experience from the moment you cross the threshold. It’s home to the island’s only hammam, a meditation garden, an outdoor yoga deck with early morning classes, a peaceful enclave of shady hammocks for a post-treatment snooze and a body temperature vitality pool. A team of trained therapists provides a range of holistic treatments, including rejuvenating facials, marine salt scrubs, tropical scrubs and massages designed to improve circulation, hasten detoxification and release everyday tension.

While it’s a family-friendly resort, the adults-only infinity pool is a definite plus; surrounded by sun-drenched cabana beds and fringed with palm trees, it’s a peaceful alternative to the family focused main pool, looking out on to the beach. With sunscreen, bug spray, towels and water placed by the pool for guests to help themselves, and fresh fruit skewers handed out in the afternoon, it’s those little extra touches that make for a truly luxurious experience.

Despite the island being rich pickings when it comes to great food, Zemi’s offering is not to be sniffed at. The beachfront breakfast is irresistible, a literal toes-in-the-sand start to your day, while by night the restaurant transforms into a beachfront buffet with an every-changing menu, from an international menu to a local Caribbean night resplendent with hog roast and fresh grilled lobsters. Zemi prides itself on being a culinary celebration of sustainability, with its cuisine marrying fresh island seafood with imported delicacies, local herbs and seasonal produce.

For those after something a little more special, Stone is the resort’s fine dining restaurant, with a hand-crafted menu and fine wine list. For a post-prandial beverage, the elegant Bohio Bar & Lounge is open late with a dazzling cocktail menu, while the stunning Rhum Room offers over 100 small-batch, single-estate rums in its refined and elegant tasting room.

For a sublimely intimate experience, Zemi Beach House was a wonder of a hotel. From the freshly-baked cookies left on the pillow at turn down, to the beach bag in the wardrobe upon arrival and the makeup eraser cloth left in the bathroom, not details was left unthought of, and it’s little things like that which will keep guests coming back for more.

www.zemibeachbouse.com

Morocco December 3, 2019

Wake Up Here: The Pink Pepper Tree Home Hotel, Spain

Mallorca is the postcard-perfect gem of the Mediterranean boasting long, hot summers, exceptional turquoise waters and charming sandstone villages. Mallorca’s landscapes seduce the senses. Dramatic cliffs transform into sweeping mountains and flat grasslands, silvery-green leaves of olive groves contrast the sandy red earth at the island’s centre and sheep graze lazily in sun soaked paddocks.

Mallorca has been able to shake off its’ party-vibe reputation to make way as a cultural hotspot. Beyond the treasures of Mallorca’s capital, Palma, lie a wealth of relaxing getaways. With a stay at The Pink Peppertree, you’ll feel right at home.

Set on the outskirts of the sleepy village of Lloseta centred in the Spanish island of Mallorca rests an idyllic home hotel that feels like an entirely different world to the partying holiday scene in Magaluf. The Pink Peppertree Home Hotel oozes rustic appeal with a lived-in atmosphere that leaves you feeling instantly at peace. From the moment you enter the hotel grounds, you are welcomed by Jacqueline and Glynn, a Dutch/South African duo who own and manage the hotel.

Set within the stoney walls of a traditional finca (a traditional farmhouse) dating back to 1570, the hotel has eight airy bedrooms which have been lovingly restored with recycled wood features and a tinge of humour. Leather Moroccan poufs, wicker and velvet armchairs and woven mats give a homely feel to the communal living space as you enter the finca, all adding to the charm of this peaceful stay.

Food and wine demand the spotlight here at The Pink Peppertree. While not specifically an agritourism hotel, the gardens on site are abundant with organic homegrown produce that is used in dishes encompassed throughout your stay. Embracing the Spanish schedule, breakfast is served daily from 9-11am with a variety of light and healthy meals including homemade jams and freshly squeezed juices, all created lovingly from locally sourced and grown ingredients.

Jacqueline is a food enthusiast and a brilliant cook, preparing surprise three course dinners three times a week. Made from a variety of fresh produce grown in the hotels gardens including pomegranate, almonds, citrus fruits and tomatoes, the dishes are some of the most delicious on the island. Dishes change every meal as Jacqueline plans based on seasonal ingredients and availability at the local market.

Wine aficionados will be delighted to discover a wide range of brilliant drops from local bodegas across the island. Many specialise in organic and natural wines, and Glynn, a wine connoisseur himself is only too happy to help you find the perfect glass, whether it’s for relaxing by the pool with a book or to complement Jacqueline’s excellent home cooked cuisine.

Ideal for those seeking a restorative break, the hotel offers a range of wellness and relaxation packages including yoga and massage, as well as serene gardens surrounding a pool and hammocks.

For a rejuvenating stay that feels like you’re in the comfort of your own home with a wealth of luxuries, The Pink Peppertree Home Hotel is the ideal adults-only stay.

For more information and to book your own stay, visit www.thepinkpeppertree.com

Behind the bar December 3, 2019

Behind the bar: A must-do date night in London at Cahoots

We took a trip back in time on our recent #cococouples date night at Cahoots new 1940s train-station-themed bar, and it was just the immersive experience we hoped it would be.

After much anticipation and excitement for the launch evening, we finally got to explore the newest Cahoots venue in Carnaby for #cococouples. What is already a fabulous area for date night has suddenly got even better with the opening of this new gem, and it’s flown straight to the top of our list for go-to date night recommendations. This shiny new train station bar is located very conveniently opposite the much-loved original underground station on Kingly Street- so no tricky transfers there. This venue boasts more space to swing dance fitting 150 people in total with two floors: one at ground level and another top-secret reservations-only space tucked away downstairs.

The Ticket Hall- ground floor fun

We were welcomed very graciously by the friendly doormen dressed in ’40s gear and headed straight to the glossy ticket window-turned-bar for a couple of drinks. Ever a gin-lover I opted for the statement Vera Lynn; a sweet cocktail with apple puree and pear served in the fanciest ceramic green mug. My date opted for the Cahooch sour with lemon, chamomile & cardamom syrup which seemed to go down very well- and we were soon in need of a second. We truly felt transported back in time as we lapped up our surroundings. Authentic tickets, vintage photographs and train station memorabilia lined the walls, and swing music played in the background whilst we sipped our cocktails and chatted. We felt peckish so we sampled some of Cahoots ham grenades with sour cream and chives, my goodness they were worth every bite, we almost polished off the entire trayful.

As well as these tasty night-time nibbles, Cahoots also serve food from 12 pm during the day, with a split menu of British and American dishes. We have yet to try these, but we have our eyes on the chicken and waffles and the sloppy joe bun, no doubt we will be back soon to sample them.

At the rear of The Ticket Hall, we discovered another small bar which Cahoots have modelled on a traditional tobacconist & grocery store. This was our favourite touch, and we spent a little while there admiring the vintage fridge and all the interesting newspaper clippings pinned up against the train station noticeboard.

Secret party vibes down in The Control Room

We were handed our ‘clock in’ passes to access the reservations-only Control Room, so we headed towards the convincing ‘NO ENTRY’ door and sneaked through. I loved the dark metallic walls and poster décor inside the derelict mineshaft as we made our way down the stairs, it really added to the secret speakeasy feel of the space. We could also hear the buzz of live music and chatting as we got closer, and the vibrant atmosphere of The Control Room hit us as soon as we swung open the doors.

Down here the décor is completely different from The Train Station upstairs but no less captivating. Exposed pipes, switchboards and the large light-up station map perched above the bar caught our eyes the most. We grabbed a booth table underneath the archways to chat and admire the space. Dim lights against the deep red decor alongside the live singer made for the perfect date night ambience. This amazing space is used for events, live entertainment and immersive movie nights, musical quiz nights and ‘Cahooch’ cocktail masterclasses.

The bar has a more experimental feel in The Control Room, serving up incredible cocktail concoctions like the cheekily named Knob Twiddler that is served in a radio box which you must tune to open. After sampling some more drinks we fancied a date-night boogie so we headed away from our booth and swayed alongside the Cahoots swing dancers.

To sum it up

If you want a date night spot that you’ll fall in love with fast then this is the place to go. We love the shiny new Cahoots just as much as the original for a date night that ticks all the boxes and more. Pop in and sample the nibbles perfectly paired with the fun and experimental cocktails served downstairs. We also recommend checking out what’s on and maybe catching a movie experience or cocktail class or two. We’ll certainly be keeping our eyes open for these ourselves.

Want to visit Cahoots? Of course, you do. We’ve got the details covered for you below:

For more information and to book a table:
https://www.cahoots-london.com/cahoots-ticket-hall-control-room/

Opening Times:
Ticket Hall: Open seven days a week: 12 pm-1 am
Control Room: Monday – Thursday: 5 pm-1 am/ Friday: 4 pm-1 am/ Saturday: 4 pm-1 am/ Sunday: Closed

For another immersive experience, see our piece on Mr. Fogg’s Society of Exploration.

Want more London date night ideas? Check out these London bars.