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. Kicking off with some breath-taking coastal views at Mount Haven Hotel, where we got some incredible foot and even better coastal walkies.
Located on the edge of Marazion, Mount Haven Hotel is the perfect coastal retreat for when you really want to get away from it all. This stylish boutique hotel is cosy and contemporary and has the best views of St. Michael’s Mount on this side of West Cornwall.
Mount Haven has 20 beautiful rooms, and a charming garden and courtyard, not to mention an absolutely delectable dog-friendly restaurant – The Terrace Bar. The menu is an adventurous take on British classics and Head Chef Ross Sloan doesn’t hold anything back. We loved the small plates, especially the lobster & crab croquettes and Porthilly oysters. Also worth noting – that the cocktail menu was created in collaboration with Michael Sager and Marcis Dzelzanis of FARE London and Sager + Wilde. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a few drinks while watching the fiery pink and orange glow of the Cornish sunset.
After dinner – we retreated to our dog-friendly garden room, where Charlie was greeted with his own cosy dog bed. The rooms at the Mount Haven Hotel are just the right size and offer every comfort that a discerning traveller could ask for.
Check our our photo gallery below for more dog-friendly travel inspiration
It’s officially November, defrosting your windscreen in the morning is now a thing again, Christmas decorations are in stores and thanks to daylight saving time, it’s getting darker earlier. So if you’re already dreaming of sunshine and are looking to book your first trip of 2020, we have a serious contender for you; The Residence at TUI SENSATORI Barut Fethiye.
After celebrating their 10th anniversary last year TUI have majorly been upping their game. The idea of a package holiday can send shivers down someone’s spine, thoughts of children running amuck, struggling to get a sun lounger and the same food every day. Yet with TUI this is a huge misconception and their SENSATORI resorts are leading the industry with a new concept.
TUI’s SENSATORI resorts are design-led and are created to ignite your senses, for sight, the hotels design and interiors are visually aesthetic, for taste, the array of cuisines are sure to please each palette, for smell, TUI has signature scents which each time you smell it, you are reminded of holiday; all in all, giving you and your senses an experience that you will want to return to.
Their newest SENSATORI resort is situated in Fethiye and is redefining what we know as a package holiday, proving it can be just as much, if not more luxurious than other options. Around a 45 minute drive from Dalaman airport, this is an adults-only retreat with a new level of luxury and TUI’s Only 5T Plus resort. As an ultra all inclusive resort, there are an array of restaurants and bars to choose from, ranging from gourmet Michelin inspired dining fine dining to informal beachside BBQ.
The hotel has 152 rooms over 3 floors, whether you choose a penthouse, lake house (with butler service) and swim-up suites, privacy is ensured and all rooms come with added luxuries such as a Nespresso machine, a whirlpool bath, in room bar, and pillow menu. The contents of the mini bar and mini fridge are all yours and will be restocked each day, there is also a bar with full sized spirits and wines that are all included and when bottles are running low, (which is a surprisingly frequent occurrence, well, you’re on holiday after all) they will simply be replaced.
The resort is home to an incredible spa, a forest area in which you can partake in yoga or Gong bathing, a private beach with butler-serviced cabana’s, an expansive swimming pool with swim-up bar, just to name a few things. If you want more lively evenings then a little stroll over to the sister hotel has evening entertainment and comedy nights.
If you manage to pry yourself from the luxury of the resort then Fethiye town is a wonderful place to explore, with Turkey’s infamous markets taking place each Tuesday in the town, you can literally shop until your drop. There are traditional turkish baths, stalls and restaurants that are definitely worthwhile experiencing, there are also yachts, boats and jet skis to hire if you wish to explore by sea.
Although the resort closed for the season yesterday, it reopens on the 1st May and after being fully booked for most of its opening in 2019, it is booking up fast so we’d recommend checking availability asap. If we haven’t convinced you that The Residence should be your summer 2020 destination, we’ll be covering our stay here in further detail to showcase what the resort and Fethiye as a destination has to offer in one of our upcoming print issues, so keep an eye out!
Looking for some winter sun? We don’t blame you, and with year-round enviable temperatures, Lanzarote is an ideal choice for a winter escape. Situated on the sea front in Costa Teguise, we recently had the pleasure of spending a few luxurious nights at the adults-only Barceló Teguise Beach hotel. The hotel has recently enjoyed a complete renovation with a fresh new look but still in keeping with the islands traditional architecture and design. White walls featuring splashes of green create both an ambient and welcoming feel.
It’s often the case with larger hotels offering ‘the works’ that the rooms tend to be slightly underwhelming. Not quite matching up to the fancy sun loungers and infinity pool. This is certainly not the case at Barceló Teguise Beach, where it’s clear that just as much thought and detail have gone into the design of the rooms. There are over 300 rooms and suites here at Barceló Teguise Beach, with some offering beautiful sea views and others overlooking the pool area. Each room boasts a comfortable kingsize bed for a dreamy nights sleep, as well as other amenities including a coffee machine, kettle, minibar and TV. You’ll also find additional (and very welcome!) touches such as complimentary toiletries from The White Company and those essentials you definitely forgot to pack such as a razor and toothpaste. Guilty. Approximately half of the rooms also feature a jacuzzi bath either inside the room or on the balcony. How does a late night dip under the stars sound?
A big selling point for Barceló Teguise Beach hotel is the impressive selection of food and drink on offer, with plenty of options for those who are vegetarian, gluten-free or vegan. Breakfast is a buffet-style setup with what feels like endless options including pastries, fresh fruit, eggs, oats, yogurt and the popular fry-up options. The perfect start to the day! The buffet restaurant is also available for evening meals and follows a similar setup with a wide range of options available (we loved the vegetarian corner for meat-free guests). Don’t be concerned that this will become boring, as the restaurant enjoys themed nights with cuisine from around the world. During the day, you can pop by the Breeze Bar for a selection of tasty lunch options including sandwiches, pasta and other lighter meals. You can also enjoy the recently refreshed Champs Sports Bar, also popular with non-guests due to its location on the promenade. Here you can select a refreshing drink from the extensive cocktail list, as well as various food options (think burgers/fries, this is a sports bar!), the bar also puts on entertainment most evenings.
The hotel facilities are impressive to say the least, with a large central swimming pool surrounded by loungers – you can also opt to pay extra for access to a more secluded area with Bali-inspired beach beds. Just around the corner you’ll find a smaller infinity pool, also known as the ‘Instagram pool’ need we say more? For ultimate pampering and relaxation, book into the hotel’s luxurious spa complete with a unique numbered hydrotherapy circuit to give you the full experience! Ease any tension with relaxing massage and kick back in the sauna to sweat out the stress.
In terms of location, Barceló Teguise Beach is ideal whether you’re looking to spend a week relaxing by the pool or as a base to explore what the island has to offer. Our tip? Go and explore! Lanzarote is bursting with beautiful scenery and hidden gems, so it’s worth tearing yourself away from your sun lounger for at least a day or two. Situated along Las Cucharas beach, you can enjoy leisurely strolls up and down the coastline, and there’s plenty of shops, bars and restaurants nearby. We’d also recommend you head further afield and get familiar with other areas on the island.
Head over to Timanfaya National Park for dramatic volcanic landscapes, don’t worry it’s totally safe and you won’t be sprinting from any unexpected lava. Instead, you’ll gaze upon the aftermath of massive eruptions on the island. You’ll need to book onto a coach or private tour as this isn’t an area that can be safely explored by foot so bear this in mind! Once you’ve enjoyed an hour or two exploring Timanfaya, be sure to visit the Jameos del Agua Caves and prepare to be mind-blown. An underground cave system with a built-in restaurant and auditorium seating up to 600 people. It’s just as magical as it sounds and definitely has to be seen with your own eyes to appreciate the beauty of this unique underground location.
Other notable areas of interest on the island include Mirador Del Rio, created in 1974 by visionary architect César Manrique. Here you’ll find a bar carved into the side of a cliff – yes really – and offering beautiful views over La Graciosa. Have you ever wondered what a volcanic green lake looks like? Amongst the volcanic landscape, you’ll find a spectacular green lagoon nestled in the village of El Golfo which is also a popular destination for rustic seafood eateries, should you wish to sample some of the local seafood.
It’s that time of year when you may plan to visit a Christmas market, but where have you opted for this Christmas? Are you staying in the UK or are you planning an overseas trip to a Christmas market in Europe?
#TeamCoco love this time of year, whether in the UK or in a new city that we haven’t visited before, the festive feels are just epic. We love the unique ambience of a Christmas market from the music and the food, to the local traditions and the mulled wine, what’s not to love!
We have put together a few options of Christmas markets this year including Gdansk, Strasbourg, Cardiff, Munich, and London. With a little help from IHG Hotels who have offered us an insight to some of their hotels in each of these cities.
GDANSK, POLAND
The main Christmas Market in Gdansk and the festive Arts & Crafts market will take place on the Main Town’s Coal Market this year – from the 1st until the 23rd of December. One of the most beautiful and magical in Poland, the Christmas Market in Gdansk will open on the first day of December. Visitors will be immersed in a Christmas fairy-tale. The market’s area will be divided into three lanes named Angel’s Lane (Anielska), Chocolate Lane (Czekoladowa) and Cinnamon Lane (Cynamonowa).
Where to stay:Having opened in August, Holiday Inn Gdansk®, the 240-room Holiday Inn Gdansk – City Centre is located on Granary Island. The seven-storey hotel has five conference rooms, a 24-hour gym, restaurant and a Sky Bar. It also features the new Holiday Inn ‘open lobby’ concept, which includes a bar and workspaces and is perfect to come back to after a day of festivities. In addition, kids under 12 eat and stay for free.
Room rates: From £103.59 or zł 494.70 To book: Book direct via www.ihg.com/holidayinn or through the IHG Rewards Club app.
STRASBOURG, FRANCE
Opening at the end of November, this festive market remains a favourite for Christmas lovers with its four Advent concerts and its Living Nativity, along with authentic live music and cultural events. Having first launched back in 1570, travellers come from around the world to visit this magical place and experience what it has on offer, with its famous Christmas tree, scenic wooden chalets and mulled wine to add to the occasion.
Where to stay: Holiday Inn Express® Strasbourg – Centre is located in the city centre, only a short stroll away from the Christmas market. The hotel is the perfect place for travellers seeking a spot of Christmas magic in Europe within easy reach of the market. An Express Start™ Breakfast is included in the room rate with free Wi-Fi on offer. Being only 13km away from the airport, Strasbourg is a great place for on the move explorers, who are visiting the town during the busy festive period.
Room rates: From £110 or €120.84 To book: Book direct at www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/ or via the IHG Rewards Club app.
CARDIFF, WALES
The Cardiff Christmas Market will return to the pedestrian streets of Cardiff City Centre in St John Street, Working Street, Hills Street, Trinity Street and the Hayes on Thursday 14 November until Monday 23 December 2019 with yet another exciting and eclectic mix of both new and returning exhibitors as their original, hand made products are the essence of what makes this market so different and special every year.
Where to stay:voco™ St David’s Cardiff is set on Cardiff Bay’s waterfront, with glass-fronted façade, private balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a coastal setting. Less than 10 minutes away from the city centre, this hotel is the most angelic setting for a magical Christmas break. After a day of festivities, return to the hotel’s restaurant and bar – The Admiral St David- which draws inspiration from the eclectic food culture and bold flavours of Australasia and Asia-Pacific or book yourself in at the award-winning Marine Spa to indulge an relax.
Room rates: From £190.44 To book: Book direct at www.vocohotels.com or via the IHG Rewards Club app.
MUNICH, GERMANY
This Christmas market is held in the heart of the city in Marienplatz square, with plenty of delicious foods, carol singers and a nativity display. The traditional German Christmas cuisine is a must and be sure to check out one of Germany’s most famous attractions, the Hofbräuhaus Brewery to get you in the festive jolly spirit.
Where to stay: Holiday Inn® Munich – City Centre Hotel is only a short walk away from the iconic Marienplatz, in the quiet and enchanting atmosphere of Haidhausen, a quarter close to the Isar river. Families can mingle in the hotel’s Open Lobby where kids can play games whilst parents can unwind and grab a drink. The property boasts 582 rooms, offering a beautiful view of Munich’s skyline. A pillow menu and blackout curtains are provided for every room with central heating for a restful night Kids aged under 12 eat and stay for free too so this is a great choice for those wishing to escape on a budget this Christmas.
Room rates: From £96.27 or €105.36 To book: Book direct at https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/ or via the IHG Rewards Club app.
LONDON, ENGLAND
Running for over a decade, London’s Winter Wonderland exudes Christmas spirit during the winter. The attraction hosts Christmas-themed activities, including an enormous ice-skatings rink, roller coaster rides, street food stalls, a Ferris wheel, Bavarian-themed beer halls with live music and a huge Christmas market. Winter Wonderland is the perfect place for families and friends to spend time with loved ones this Christmas.
Where to stay: Crowne Plaza® London – Kensington makes for a perfect base for travellers wishing to discover the city’s culture and heritage in a short amount of time, being only a twenty-minute walk away from Winter Wonderland. The hotel is only a five-minute taxi ride from the elegant shops and restaurants of Mayfair and Knightsbridge, allowing guests to quickly navigate around the city and experience everything London has to offer. This is a desirable destination for those who want space in an intimate setting and offers a stylish Umami restaurant and cocktail bar to dine at after exploring the festivities of the city.
Room rates: From £183 or €205 To book: Book direct via www.ihg.com/crowneplaza or through the IHG Rewards Club app.
So, what are you waiting for – getting booking your Christmas market visit.
Find out how travel, loyalty and love are celebrated in Illustrator Quentin Jones’ relationship with husband George Northcott as they shoot with Rankin for Marriott Bonvoy.
Marriott Bonvoy, the travel reward programme from Marriott International, has launched Loyalty & Love, a collaboration with British photographer, Rankin.
The campaign examines the importance of loyalty and travel in modern relationships featuring fifteen couples shot by Rankin across fifteen Marriott Bonvoy hotels in Europe. Each of the couples’ stories share a common theme of experiences and precious time spent travelling, to tell tales of family bonding, friendships and romance.
And it’s all about romance for Quentin Jones and George Northcott, a married couple who’s personal love story centres around travel from the very start, as they first met in an airport.
“We met in Heathrow Terminal 5 on our way to the same group holiday in Mexico five years ago,” recalls illustrator and film maker Quentin Jones. “George was a friend of my sister’s husband’s friend and we met going through the airport, but first spoke properly on the plane.”
By the time the trip ended, they were dating. Unfortunately the pair lived on either side of the pond, with Jones in New York and Northcott in London. They didn’t let this stop the blossoming romance though and dived head first into a long-distance romance hopping back and forth over the Atlantic.
“George was really romantic. Every time he came to visit, he wrote a rhyming comedy poem about the trip,” says Jones.
Fast-forward to now and the pair have been living in the UK for three years and have two children: sons 3-year-old Grey and 10-month-old Cassius.
Calling North London home, the pair made a habit of weaving travel into their lives. After a fairytale weekend-long wedding in Venice, they spent three weeks in India for their honeymoon.
Jones tells us: “I think Venice will always be special to us because we got married there and we often go back for the Biennale. Every time you arrive in Venice, it takes your breath away.”
They now make it a priority to escape regularly for weekends away, making time for just the two of them among the chaos of work, life and kids.
“I think it’s really important to find time as a couple, so this year we went to Miami for some sun in February, skiing in March, then Venice to the Biennale opening in May,” Jones tells us.
She adds: “Trips with kids can be so amazing, but for quick weekends away, just being the two of us is such a treat.”
To celebrate the Loyalty & Love campaign world-famous British fashion and portrait photographer shot Jones and Northcott at The Great Northern, London.
“I have been shot by him a few times over the years, and he is still as funny as ever,” she describes the experience.
Rankin commented; “Hotels are fascinating places; each guest and room has a different story to tell, forming a treasure trove of memories made together. In Loyalty & Love, we wanted to capture the romance and glamour of staying in a hotel by revealing our couples behind closed doors, suspended in their own private bubble of their hotel room. The result is a collection of images which put the romance back into travel and show the important role that this precious time together can play in a relationship.”
Marriott Bonvoy is the new name for a travel programme that lets members earn and redeem points with 30 brands and more than 7,000 hotels worldwide. Launched in February 2019, Marriott Bonvoy replaced Marriott Rewards, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG). Comprised of a portfolio of extraordinary brands where you can earn and redeem, as well as offering approximately 120,000 destination tours and adventures on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, the travel programme enables members to explore the world in pursuit of their passions.
Jones tells us why they chose to stay in hotels: “Loyalty works both ways, and it’s always nice to be rewarded by a brand. One of the things I like about Marriott Bonvoy is the number and quality of hotels and experiences on offer – loyalty is easy when you’re spoilt for choice!
“I adore staying in hotels because of how stress free it makes a trip – particularly with babies.”
The project and Rankin’s other subjects include Vicky McClure & fiancé, Jonny Owen; Olympic Gold medallists, Kate & Helen Richardson Walsh; Film critics Mark Kermode and wife Linda Ruth Williams and fashion influencer twins Hermon and Heroda Berhane, alongside Marriott International employees and Marriott Bonvoy members.
There’s nothing better than hanging out in the water, whether it’s lazing on the side of a catamaran, playing in the shallows, snorkelling amongst the fishes or sleeping by the sea. What about sleeping in the sea? Or having dinner with the fishes? Underwater destinations are a seriously luxe way to explore the water and we can’t get enough of them. There aren’t any off England’s coast yet which just means you’ll just have to find your passport and head off to one of these international spots in the sea.
Under, Norway
Up until now it’s been all about Maldives, Fiji and Dubai when it comes to underwater dining, but now Under has opened in Norway. Europe’s first and the world’s largest underwater restaurant is five metres below sea level in Lindesnes in southern Norway. Half-sunken, the Scandi-chic restaurant juts out of the sea making it an architectural interest in itself, but really you want to get inside and down to the panoramic window. The sea might not be as a crystal blue as in the tropics, but the rugged coastline still makes for perfect dinner viewing, you can expect to see urchins, crabs, mini sharks, battling lobsters and even the occasional seal! www.under.no
The Manta Resort, Tanzania
If staying on your own private floating island surrounded by reef fish wasn’t already dreamy enough, the base level of this three-tiered hotel room is submerged entirely underwater. At night underwater spot lights attract the likes of squid and octopus and coral has started to grow up around the anchor. With a minimum three night stay, you can spend one night sleeping on the top deck under the stars, one on the middle deck with 360 views of the reef and conservation area and one night below the water, watching the fish for a truly unique experience. www.themantaresort.com
Subsix, Niyama Private Islands Maldives
If you want to dine at the dramatic Subsix then you’re going to need to catch a speedboat or board a seaplane to get there as the restaurant and club sits 500 metres off the shore and six metres below sea level. Inspired by the setting the restaurant’s shape emulates a clam, the chandeliers mimic coral and there are sea anemone chairs. That said, however glamorous the interior is, we can guarantee that as you’re sipping on your Champagne you’re going to be transfixed by the lagoon outside where moray eels, parrotfish, groupers, butterflyfish and even Hawksbill turtles glide past. www.niyama.com
Ithaa Underwater Restaurant, Maldives
Starting this luxe trend, was Ithaa, the world’s first underwater restaurant. Sitting five metres under the Indian Ocean, Ithaa at the Conrad Rangali Island in the Maldives is surrounded by coral gardens teeming with fish, giving you one incredible view as you dine – no need for people watching or trying to think of topics if the conversation runs out. Open for mid-morning cocktails through to dinner, this really is one special restaurant that should be on everyone’s bucket list. www.conradmaldives.com
Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
The underwater suite at Atlantis The Palm in Dubai is pure decadence. You won’t just be curling up on an opulent king sized bed or relaxing in a marble jacuzzi, you’ll be doing both of these whilst watching 65,000 marine animals including sharks and stingrays glide past your window. With mesmerising private views of the Ambassador Lagoon and a butler to boot and you’ve got yourself one very decadent holiday. www.atlantis.com
When we talk about bucket-list destinations in Canada, you might automatically assume the likes of Banff National Park or perhaps the vibrant city of Vancouver. But we’ve got a secret, a hidden gem that’s often overshadowed by nearby Nova Scotia and a destination that should be sitting firmly in your ‘to-visit’ list for 2020 and beyond, and that’s New Brunswick. Nestled on Canada’s east coast, the province boasts breathtaking scenery, beautiful towns, historic residences and endless outdoor activities including kayaking and if you’re really lucky, the chance to spot a nearby humpback or minke whale!
Looking for your next outdoor adventure of a lifetime? We’ve got all the best bits…
Where to stay
The Algonquin – St Andrews by-the-sea
When exploring the province, the quaint town of St Andrews By-the-Sea makes for an idyllic base. Wander down Water Street and browse the many interesting boutiques (a stop by Scrooge and Marley’s Christmas shop is an essential) and dine in one of the areas fabulous restaurants complete with fresh seafood and many more treats. Alongside a handful of smaller B&B type accommodations, St Andrews By-the-Sea is served mostly by The Algonquin, a world-famous hotel that might look familiar to film buffs. While never officially confirmed, a few of the local residents informed us of a visit by a certain famous king, you guessed it! Stephen King is among the list of famous faces who have checked in at the Algonquin, and now you mention it, it does resemble a hotel from a certain cult film…
Hailed as one of Canada’s finest resorts, The Algonquin first opened its doors in 1889 (back when the price of a room was $3-5!) and within 5 years the resort opened The Algonquin Golf Course which is still a magnet for golf enthusiasts today. It quickly became a hot attraction for visitors near and far. Over the years the hotel has undergone many renovation works and expansions to maintain its lavish appeal. A $30 million dollar renovation in 2012 saw the addition of an indoor pool, water slide, balcony suites and outdoor hot tubs. It’s fair to say The Algonquin truly has it all.
What to do
Take a jeep tour around St Andrews By-the-Sea
What better way to explore a new area than in an open-top jeep with one of the locals? The fabulous Genny of Turtle Shore Adventures will take you back in time to uncover the history of St Andrews, stopping by key locations such as the old prison and Pendlebury lighthouse. Knowledgable and passionate, Genny can answer all of your questions about life in St Andrews as well as many of the residents. We’re not talking people, we’re talking marine life. A keen biologist, Genny also offers ‘marine life’ tours to discover the local wildlife! Hear tales from the town, listen to amazing stories and immerse yourself in the history of St Andrews – ghost stories optional!
Drive across the sea bed to Ministers Island
Yes, really! The Bay of Fundy is home to the highest tides in the world. At high tide, the bar that connects Ministers Island is some 14 feet underwater, with the island accessible for approximately 5 hours during low tide. Once the coast is clear, you can jump in the car and drive over the seabed, avoiding any particularly softer sandy areas along the way. It’s a unique experience as a trail of cars and vans follow each other across the ocean floor and onto the island, and one that’s certainly not to be missed! Once you’ve safely made it to Ministers Island, it’s time to discover Van Horne’s estate and take a journey back in time. The railroad visionary William Van Horne’s home is open to the public, so don’t miss an opportunity to take a look around. The estate is still home to many original pieces of furniture and artwork, some even painted by Van Horne himself. You can also take a stroll down to the Bathhouse for fantastic views across the water, and don’t forget to head over to The Barn. This ex-livestock barn is a masterpiece, a two-story timber structure and once home to Van Horne’s prize-winning thoroughbred horses and Dutch belted cattle!
Take a stroll around the Kingsbrae Garden
On a sunny morning, there’s no better way to spend a peaceful few hours than a stroll around the magnificent Kingsbrae Garden. This award-winning garden is home to over 50,000 perennials with streams, ponds, themed gardens and even a few furry residents including rabbits, goats, alpacas and ducks. Wander around visual delights including the White Garden, Cottage Garden, Rose Garden and Scents and Sensitivity garden – a specially designed area built for the enjoyment of the visually impaired. Alongside endless beautiful gardens, Kingsbrae Garden is also home to an impressive collection of sculptures featuring works from previous winners of the Canadian Sculpture Competition. Relax in beautiful surroundings and pop by The Garden Café to indulge in culinary treats such as seasonal soup, pastas, tacos and an impressive dessert board.
Jump on a boat to Campobello Island
Head over to the nearby Campobello Island for simply stunning scenery and an enjoyable boat ride over to the island itself. The best way to truly get to know the island and discover off-the-beaten-track is to head on an island excursion with Island Discovery Tours. Run by Campobello resident, Peter, you’ll hear all about life on the island, discovering the best bits including the best locations for a few snaps (you may even spot a whale in the distance), Mullholland Lighthouse, views of the Head Harbour Lightstation and a visit to the summer retreat of ex US president Franklin D. Roosevelt. Here in 1921, Roosevelt fell ill with polio and spent six weeks cooped up (well, hardly, the house is actually rather spacious) in this very house. Today you can wander around and enjoy a tour of the home.
Go whale watching
One of the major draws of the province is the numerous whale watching excursions available, it’s a real once-in-a-lifetime experience and a must-do when visiting New Brunswick. St Andrews is home to a number of tour operators all of whom work together to pass on the intel to ensure all visitors hold a great chance of spying a humpback or minke whale. Once suitably dressed in your flotation suit, the team will take you out on a boat such as a Zodiac for an unforgettable two hours. Take your cameras (and a beanie hat – it gets windy out there!) and prepare to look on in awe of these majestic creatures. Sightings are usually almost guaranteed with whale sightings at around 95%. Prepare to be amazed.
Take a road trip around the province
With so much to explore, it simply wouldn’t be fair to stay in just one place! Enjoy a road trip around New Brunswick and make sure you add the capital city, Fredericton, to your itinerary. Here you’ll find the New Brunswick College of Art and Design, as well as other cultural hotspots including The Playhouse and Beaverbrook Art Gallery. Looking to stop over for the night? The Lord Beaverbrook Crowne Plaza provides a comfortable and central stay. Other areas of interest include Moncton and Saint John, but the best bit? All of the beautiful fall foliage along the way, autumn is a particularly beautiful time to visit the province.
Get up close with the local marine life
The Huntsman Marine Science Centre is a fantastic educational hub for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Say hello to the two resident seals (Loki and Snorkel) and take a look at the local sturgeon, salmon and seahorses. Time your visit with the daily feeding schedule to watch a member of the marine team feed the residents! The touch tank offers an interactive experience where you can pick up the starfish, clams and other underwater friends. Behind the scenes tours are available if you wish to find out more about the centre, the marine life and go behind locked doors…
Where to eat
(L-R: The Shadow Lawn Inn, 11th Mile, The Rossmount Inn, Braxtons at The Algonquin)
The Algonquin
As well as providing a luxurious stay, The Algonquin is also a fabulous dining experience in its own right. With two options available; the formal Braxtons restaurant or more causal bar, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Menu options include plenty of seafood (the lobster is a popular choice among diners), vegan-friendly curried quinoa and a selection of indulgent desserts.
The Rossmount Inn
Crowned the number 1 restaurant in St Andrews by TripAdvisor, the Rossmount Inn provides an ambient setting, delicious food and brilliant service. Housed in a beautiful historic inn and run by hospitality power couple Chris and Graziella Aerni. Feast upon organic cuisine with dishes such as mushroom purée soup,Bay of Fundy haddock fillet and baked blueberry cheesecake. After dinner, relax in the cosy lounge bar next door.
The Robertson at the Shadow Lawn Inn
Located in Rothesay, an upmarket community just outside Saint John, the Shadowlawn Inn offers an intimate dining experience in their Robertson restaurant with interiors to die for. Select from fresh salads, chowders, crab cakes and sticky date pudding to name a few. It’s well worth a drive over just for the brilliant food, and for veggies, you’re covered too with a number of meat-free options available.
11th Mile
When visiting Fredericton, be sure to stop by 11th Mile for a meal that’s next-level! A small but perfectly formed menu, your tastebuds will be tantalised with the flavours that come from each dish. Top tip: order a few of their ‘plates’ to share with your companion, or if you’re travelling solo…order a few anyway!
What are you waiting for? Discover Canada’s East coast gem – visit Tourism New Brunswick for more information and inspiration.
You all know we’re big fans of the #CocoCouples here at House of Coco. But what about those babes among us who are unattached? Free spirits ready to find ourselves, see the world, and fall head over heels for the man, or woman, of our dreams. Well, where better to do so than in a foreign exotic locale?
We’ve all been there; sharing life stories alone on a rooftop in Malta, tossing back cocktails on the water’s edge in Croatia, or wrapping a deadly snake around your neck in Thailand, and it’s at that moment you find yourself hopelessly in love. And in the moment it seems so perfect. They seem like your dream partner, and when you’re with them nothing else seems to matter. Eventually though, these romances always seem to fizzle out. Perhaps your journeys head in different directions; perhaps you return home only to find that exotic accents and carefree attitudes aren’t the most important things to a successful relationship. Does this fizzle mean that what you had was just a summer fling, not true love?
If you find yourself pondering these questions, it might be worth considering a lie detector test. While it may sound unconventional, a lie detector test can help you uncover the truth and determine whether the love you experienced was genuine or merely a fleeting affair. By assessing the physiological responses of both partners, a lie detector test can provide insights into their emotional and physical reactions, shedding light on the authenticity of the connection.
So, before you let the memories of that passionate romance fade away, consider taking a lie detector test to gain clarity. After all, knowing the truth can help you move forward and make informed decisions about your love life.
There has been a whole lot of research conducted into travel romances that seeks to answer this very question. And whilst it can’t tell you why your last on the road romance crashed and burned, there are some pretty interesting insights into why you fell head over heels for that Texan bartender against all your better judgements.
Research conducted by social and behavioural psychologists Dr Dutton and Dr Aron came to the conclusion that when placed in unfamiliar or dangerous new environments, the spike in adrenaline caused their subjects to find others more attractive. Their work has shown that physiological stimulation can cause the lines between romantic attraction and just plain loving your surroundings to become blurred.
Their study focused on a ‘scary suspension bridge’ case and led the researchers to believe that if you’re physically or physiologically stimulated in some way, be that by fear of the bridge, or in awe of the beautiful scenery, and you happen to be standing near a person of reasonable attraction, you could potentially misinterpret this as a love connection. They note that these findings are evident when travelling, because you’re more likely going to be in an environment that provokes excitement. So it’s entirely possible that you’re not in love with the person, but with the situation itself. And when you’re on the road, constantly met with a dazzling array of culture, architecture and food, the chances of you falling in love skyrocket.
Those of you out there with a few travel romances under your belt have a pretty good idea of how these things tend to go. You meet, and in a few short, sharp and hopefully sweet days, you’re enamoured. You’ve crammed at least 4 weeks worth of dating into 4 days; instead of catching up for drinks once a week, you’ve spent all your time exploring a beautiful and enriching place together and the compressed time has led to an intense love affair that has your head spinning.
And science has the answers here too. Studies conducted by the University of Birmingham highlight the similarities between the behavioural effects of the hormone oxytocin – better known as ‘the love hormone’ – and alcohol consumption. Their study concludes more or less that being in love is a lot like being drunk. It inhibits our sense of fear, leading us to trust certain people and certain situations without thinking rationally. Much like you would after a few too many Long Island Iced Teas.
However, these studies, and the multitude more of them there are out there, indicate a particular finding that isn’t explicitly addressed. These studies acknowledge the variety of biological and behavioural scientific explanations as to why foreign bartenders get your heart racing, and whilst they can conclude that these romances on the road are not always legit, they do acknowledge them as love.
We are led to believe, by Shakespeare, Walt Disney, and pretty much any Ryan Gosling movie, that in order to be real, love has to last forever. These studies, and my own personal research into the topic as a chronic travel romancer, negate this lofty ideal. Whether it lasts for 3 days, 3 years or a lifetime; whether it’s the intoxication of your oxytocin or a misinterpretation of your own arousal, travel romances are very much the real deal. Just because it comes to an end, like unfortunately, all holidays do, doesn’t mean it wasn’t ‘true love’ whatever that term means. So next time a rose lands in front of you at a bar in a tiny Italian town courtesy of the man at the table across from you with the beautiful eyes, go over and say hello, even if he doesn’t speak English. Because everyone deserves a little romance, even if it’s mostly science.
Being climate-aware can make simple choices daunting…like where to go for a weekend break. There are so many travel brands out there who call themselves eco-friendly, from hotel groups to tour operators. But it can be difficult to cut through the noise and figure out who might be ‘greenwashing’ and who is genuinely working on a solution that is great for both the environment and the guest. Our sustainability writer, Rachael Lindsay, tells us that Cynefin Retreats is the real deal.
Despite marching for an hour along the rural Welsh-English border to reach Cynefin Retreats, my weariness is replaced by excitement as I discover my spacious, luxe pod in the heart of the woodland.
With a large living space and bedroom, each pod has been designed with nature in mind. Built from local timber as part of a scheme designed to support forest resilience, glass windows stretch from floor to ceiling on one side, giving the illusion that you are dining, relaxing and sleeping in the very heart of the countryside.
The wooden bird towel hooks and a spare pair of binoculars delight me but my favourite feature is the hot tub. Nestled in the corner of the cedarwood decking, I linger for too long in its bubbly depths, watching the steam rise into the cool night air against the stars.
Toasting marshmallows on our open fire in front of the pod takes me back to my experiences of camping as a child. Except now I don’t have to dive into a chilly tent when the fire dies down. Instead I head for my sumptuous soft bed, my eyes drifting closed whilst trying to read the next chapter of my book.
It has rained in the night, giving the world behind the curtains that dewy look of spring despite the autumnal colours. The glass doors ache to be opened and I tuck into breakfast with hot coffee on the veranda whilst making a plan for a walk into the nearby literary town of Hay-on-Wye.
Meandering through the woodland at Cynefin Retreats, I come across wildflowers and meadow plants. Bird, owl and bat boxes create a haven for local wildlife and guests are encouraged to spot hedgehogs, Canadian geese and buzzards flying overhead.
Our walk into Hay-on-Wye for a browse of its famous second-hand bookshops and a hearty pub lunch is quite the adventure as we cross streams and muddy fields. We pick up some food to cook up a storm for our evening meal in the warmth of our pod’s kitchen. Feeling rather like I am on a film set, I watch the sunset and stoke our log fire by turns whilst our supper stew simmers.
It is clear that the design of Cynefin Retreats is about bringing guests closer to nature. Yet less glamourous features show its owners’ dedication to the environment. Electricity is from a green supplier, the soaps are natural and locally made, each pod is extremely energy efficient and bins for guests’ raw vegetable waste feed the woodland plants and trees.
From construction through to suppliers and land management, Cynefin Retreats is the best example I have come across of truly sustainable eco-tourism. As well as the right credentials, it gave me a sense of tranquillity and restoration that only a few days living in nature can provide.
If you need a retreat and want to see one of the best examples of eco-tourism that #TeamCoco has come across, book your luxe-pod at www.cynefinretreats.com.
Las Vegas can be anything and everything depending on the intent of your trip, and for those that have never ventured to Sin City before, there are an almost endless amount of activities to occupy your time.
It is a city that has much to offer from the indie to the commercial and everything in between, it might come as a surprise to first-timers to Vegas that it is also a top spot to enjoy great food.
Its culinary scene has attracted some of the biggest names in the industry, and visitors are the ones that benefit from this as nearly every country’s cuisine is offered within the city limits.
So which restaurants are a Must for a newbie to the Las Vegas scene? with so many amazing restaurants to choose from, the choice is really hard. Luckily for us, Ben Coleman, from the gambling portal casin.com, who is the number one expert to everything Las Vegas, was able to give his expert opinion on the questions. Here is what he had to say:
Le Cirque
From the moment you walk into Le Cirque at the Bellagio Hotel, you have no choice but to take in the experience from the décor in the restaurant that greets you upon arrival, to the expert service provided by a top-notch team of sommeliers and chefs. Enjoy exquisite cuisine in an upscale restaurant that boasts the freshest of ingredients, an expansive menu, and a collection of the finest French wines for an altogether memorable dining experience.
Kabuto
Do not let the unassuming, minimalist environment of Kabuto deceive you – this Japanese restaurant is the home of outstanding sushi, omakase, and more. It is rare to find traditional Edo style in America, and first-timers will bask in the ambiance, which serves up a dining experience that will have visitors believing they are actually in Japan.
Veranda
Whether you are there to enjoy high tea, amazing dishes, or just to enjoy the excellent view, Veranda, at the Four Seasons Hotel is popular not only for its award-winning dishes, but its atmosphere and picturesque views of the city. Bask in the luxury of the restaurant on their patio and try their insanely popular buffet. Great quality, great views, and exceptional service. What more could you ask for in a first visit?
Peppermill
Regarded by many as an absolute must for anyone that comes to Las Vegas, Peppermill is open round-the-clock to greet guests that are hungry not for just food, but also nostalgia, which the restaurant serves up in abundance. Diners have access to a wide list of meals to select from as they take in the ambiance of the retro-cool décor that permeates throughout the establishment.
Carlo’s Bakery
Las Vegas is known for bringing the entire world to their city, and Carlo’s Bakery is no exception as New Jersey pastries find a home in Sin city courtesy of Cake Boss Buddy Valastro. The lobster tail comes highly recommended, but it is the pastries made fresh that have people lined up to get a taste of their delectable goods.
Tao Restaurant
Visitors to Tao will feel as if they have been transported to another country as soon as they enter and take in the décor that includes a huge Buddha above a pond located in the center of the dining area. Popular dishes include the dragon sushi, lobster rice, and sea bass skewers.
For a taste of divine pan-Asian cooking, accept no substitutes.
Guy Fieri’s Vegas Kitchen & Bar
If you cannot make it to New York City to check out Guy Fieri’s culinary creations, then his Vegas restaurant is the perfect addition to his growing presence on the scene as one of the most ambitious restauranteurs in the world. Dive into grat dishes on the menu like the Righteous Rojo Rings or the Pic-a-Nik sandwich.
Gordon Ramsay’s Hell Kitchen
Celebrity chefs are all the rage in Las Vegas and Gordon Ramsay is one of the premier restauranteurs in the city, with Hell’s Kitchen at Caesars Palace his fourth establishment there. The restaurant is a huge space that doubles as an entertainment complex for diners, who get to choose from an assortment of dishes like Ramsay’s famous beef Wellington, toffee pudding, and shellfish tower.
Giada
Giada De Laurentiis is another celebrity chef with her own eponymous restaurant in the heart of the Strip. Visitors can expect to see her walking around and greeting guests as she serves up a menu that is inspired by California cuisine.
Michael’s Gourmet Room
They may be more or less a thing of the past now, but in previous iterations, Las Vegas was home to several gourmet rooms that were known for their lavish décor and extensive menu selections. Michael’s is now the protector of that history, featuring plush velvet rooms and impressive ambiance that matches its impressive dishes and a desert cart that is not to be passed on.
