Travel - House Of Coco Magazine

Festivals May 23, 2019

#CocoFestivals: The Great Wonderfest 2019

Brand new family and music festival The Great Wonderfest has just announced a spectacular line-up for the summer festival on the Isle of Wight – August 1st to August 4th 2019.

Two of the UK’s biggest boy bands Busted and The Vamps are back with new albums and will exclusively headline The Great Wonderfest.

Other great acts confirmed so far include headline sets from Sigma and Example, plus live performances from Conor Maynard, Mistajam and Becky Hill among many others.

There will also be a chance to enjoy some retro vibes with performances by 80s pop legends The Blow Monkeys and Musical Youth.

Taking place at the start of the summer holidays and hosted by the true kings of family entertainment, Dick and Dom, festival goers can expect a three day ‘schools out, old school, new school, no rules spectacular’ with music, magic, and immersive family fun at its core. Programmed by the brains of these creators of chaos, expect their big black book of TV chums and favourite acts to be unleashed into fields of wonder.

As well as fantastic bands and DJs, expect magic, comedy and vaudeville to play a big part in the weekend’s festivities. With four days of entertainment on tap, you can pick and choose your fun – including plenty of outdoor games for young and old

Street dance stars Flawless will also be taking The Great Wonderfest by storm with their jaw-dropping renowned routines as seen on TV. Bringing you some jaw dropping performances, dance workshops, meet and greets, prize giveaways across the weekend and more.

Other live appearances include Robots Live Arena featuring BBC Robot Wars Champion Apollo and Vulcan (King of Bots) and Singing Hands (makaton signing classes).

Live Acts

BUSTED – THE VAMPS – SIGMA – EXAMPLE – CONOR MAYNARD – MISTAJAM – BECKY HILL – KAREN HARDING – DUB PISTOLS WITH SPECIAL GUESTS THE RAGGA TWINS – JAGUAR SKILLS – AMELIA LILY – ROBIN S – THE BLOW MONKEYS – MUSICAL YOUTH

And many more …

DJs

MARSHALL JEFFERSON – MISTAJAM – BEZ & ROWETTA (HAPPY MONDAYS) PRESENTS ‘ON THE 6TH DAY GOD CREATED MANCHESTER’ – SLIPMATT – FOOR – DON LETTS – BRANDON BLOCK – ALFREDO – BARRY ASHWORTH & GHETTO FUNK FEAT PROFIT & NATTY SPEAKS – BABY LOVES DISCO – RUSS CUBAN PRESENTS ‘CAMPSITE SESSIONS’ – JAGUAR SKILLS

And many more …

Kids

Shows, Dance & Curiosities – Peppa Pig: Summer Festival – Dick & Dom – Flawless Summer Dance Camp Live with daily performances & workshops – Rastamouse live – Starlight presents .. ’Build A Show’ featuring Cirque du Starlight Wizard of Oz and Aladdin – Human Table Football – The Scout Hut Youth Club – Steampunk Morris Dancers – Bouncy Castle Festival – Wight Trash Skate Park!

There’s plenty more to see and do including sunrise yoga, DMX Dance, The Botanical Retreat, Style and Pamper Lounge, Street Food Market, and The Lock Inn Pub.

So join us for a sporting high jinx festival of epic proportions where you can plot up for four days, or if you want to extend your island holiday then pitch up for seven days at The Great Wondercamp extended campsite for those who want to explore the island for a whole week.

Weekend Tickets

Adults from £120, Family packages from: £240 (including 4-day campsite), Kids under 3 go free!, Weekend glamping options from: £240, 7-Day campsite for extended Isle of Wight summer breaks from: £300.

Friday, Saturday, Sunday Day Tickets

Adult = £35.00, Family Day Ticket = £75.00, Child tickets: 15-17 Day ticket = £20.00, 10-14 Day Ticket = £15.00, 4-9 Day Ticket = £10.00, Aged 3yr & under = £0.00.

VIP Friday, Saturday, Sunday Day Tickets

Adult = £75.00, Family VIP Day Ticket = £200, VIP Child tickets: 15-17 Day ticket = £37.50, 10-14 Day Ticket = £20.00, 4-9 Day Ticket = £15.00, Aged 3yr & Under = £0.00

Day Car Parking

= £5.00

For more info visit www.greatwonderfest.com

Republic of Ireland May 22, 2019

An Art & Design Enthusiast’s Guide To Belfast

Welcome to Belfast, Northern Ireland’s creative capital, where art, design, and music intersect to offer enthusiasts an unparalleled experience. With its vibrant cultural scene, Belfast invites visitors to explore galleries exhibiting a diverse array of works, from contemporary pieces to traditional masterpieces. Design aficionados will find inspiration in the city’s innovative architecture and stylish boutiques, while music lovers can immerse themselves in live performances ranging from intimate gigs to electrifying concerts. Whether admiring colourful murals or dancing to the beat of live music, Guide To Belfast promises an unforgettable journey for enthusiasts of art, design, and music.

Belfast is a beautiful city, bursting with creativity; you’ll find an abundance of design-lead independent sellers, the sounds of live music escaping from every pub and street art on every corner. Check out House of Coco’s suggestions to satisfy your taste for good design…

What to do:

The streets of Belfast are a colourful place with fascinating street art popping up all over the city, particularly in the Cathedral Quarter. You’ll struggle to walk 50 metres without seeing a new piece of art under an arch, adorning a whole wall or hiding up high. Many pieces have an interesting story behind them, be it a political message or personal statement, that you would never know as an average viewer walking the streets, so a great way to find out more is to take the Street Art Walking Tour by Seedhead Arts. This two-hour tour will see you strolling the city, stopping at the best pieces of art and delving into the background of each one.

The MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre) is an epicentre of creativity in the Cathedral Quarter. Housing many different art exhibitions, theatre performances and unique activities and events. The ground floor café has plenty of cosy booths – perfect for freelancers looking for a quiet place to get some work done! It’s free to enter, so there’s no excuse not to pop in for a browse and a coffee.

The Black Box is an arts and entertainment venue hosting a multitude of events from live music to theatre to comedy and everything in between. They also serve food and drink.

Though it’s probably the world’s most famous ship many people don’t know that the Titanic was built in Belfast, but the Titanic Quarter is striving to change that. The riverside development is bringing residential, commercial, tourism, education and retail projects to the site where the Titanic was built and highlighting the importance of shipbuilding to the area.

READ MORE: A Design-Lover’s Dream: Step Inside This Geoffrey Bawa Luxury Villa In Sri Lanka

At the centre of this is the Titanic Museum; a striking building on the side of the river designed by Eric Kuhne. Take The Discovery Tour to learn about the hidden features buried within the architectural design of the museum building. You will uncover clever elements of the construction, such as that the roof is shaped like a star to honour The White Star Line company who owned the Titanic.

Taking place in November, Belfast Design Week is an annual festival showcasing the best of design through events and exhibitions throughout the community. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting the city between 4 to 10 November 2019 be sure to check their website for a schedule of events.

Belfast’s Late Night Art scheme takes the pressure off fitting all the design goodness into regular opening hours, with dozens of galleries remaining open until 9 pm on the first Thursday of every month.

Where to shop:

Belfast Underground Records is a three-story music lover’s heaven. They have over 20,000 records for sale and two floors containing recording studios and live music rooms that are available to hire for budding music talent in the city.

Studio Souk is an independent shop bursting with handmade goods from both small and big businesses. As well as the ground floor retail space – selling everything from mugs to pins, to painting to chutneys – Studio Souk contains ten studio spaces used daily by local creatives. Stand back and watch a painter getting stuck into a canvas or a technical knitwear designer working away at their machine.

One of the city’s oldest attractions St. George’s Market is a vibrant gathering of local traders housed in an authentic Victorian building. Open Friday to Sunday visit the market for food, gifts and souvenirs.

Where to stay:

The AC Hotel Belfast is the perfect place for design lovers to stay. Each room is beautifully designed to be functional but luxurious, with a focus on minimising fuss and maximising necessary features. You’ll find king-size beds, Nespresso coffee machines and roomy double showers in every room, along with handy USB ports for charging, cosy waffle robes and essentials like an iron and a kettle.

The lobby area offers stations to sit and get some work done, as well as cosy couches and chairs to sit and relax with a cocktail or the Signature AC Gin & Tonic. An outside seating area is the best place to take in views of the river and see the iconic Titanic Museum from a new angle.

Where to eat and drink:

Whether you stay at AC Hotel Belfast or not, you should visit their restaurant Novelli. As the first riverside eatery in the city Novelli, a restaurant by Rosette and Michelin chef Jean-Christophe Novelli, is turning the typical hotel restaurant stereotypes on their head.

Say goodbye to a mediocre menu and hello to delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes with stylish presentation. The signature dessert Jack In A Box is a must-order for chocolate lovers.

For coffee and cake try Coffee Yard. Located in Hollywood, around a 15-minute taxi ride from the centre, this coffee shop has creativity at its core. The owners of Coffee Yard, Jim and Nicki, are self-confessed design lovers and hired architects Hackett and Hall (who also designed MAC) to build their café. They now serve handcrafted coffees and fresh food Monday to Saturday. The brand also extends into the Yard Gallery, a bright and airy art gallery attached to Coffee Yard exhibiting and selling prints, jewellery, accessories, cards and homeware.

The Dirty Onion is a traditional Irish pub and is in Belfast’s oldest intact timber-framed building. The pub oozes history making full use of the outdoor area by creating a huge beer garden with a Jameson Barrelman statue in honour of the many bottles of Jameson that passed through the building when it used to be a warehouse. The cosy pub now offers live music seven nights a week and is the starting point for the Belfast Traditional Music Trail (Saturday evening tours exploring traditional Irish music starting May 13). Upstairs in The Dirty Onion you’ll find Yardbird, serving tasty rotisserie chicken.

France May 22, 2019

UNICO 20° 87°: Redefining All Inclusive Travel in Mexico’s Riviera Maya

Five-star UNICO 20°87° Riviera Maya, Mexico seeks to boldly redefine the all-inclusive resort experience by providing an immersive and authentic experience of the region. Our House of Coco writer, Omo Osagiede, spent time exploring UNICO’s ethos and what it means to ‘arrive as a tourist and leave as a traveller’.

Riviera Maya: This particular stretch of coastline between Cancún and Tulum on the Yucatán Peninsula’s Caribbean coast, is one of Mexico’s most visited. Apart from its outstanding natural beauty, many visitors choose to holiday in this region because of the abundance of resorts offering all-inclusive holidays.

For many holidaymakers, all-inclusive can be a great option for many reasons, including cost and practicality. However, all-inclusive holidays should not mean boring, custom built monstrosities or over-manufactured experiences that isolate guests and leave them with no real knowledge or understanding of the destination.

The minds behind UNICO 20°87° Riviera Maya have redefined this concept. Their luxury all-inclusive hotel offers world-class suites, interior design, bars and restaurants and spa and pool facilities.

However, and more importantly, it is their approach to ensuring that, during their stay, guests can discover and embrace the local culture of the region through immersive and authentic experiences that truly sets them apart.

Why visit Mexico’s Riviera Maya?

Archaeology provides evidence suggesting that the Yucatán Peninsula is the longest continuously settled part of Mexico. The ancient Mayans, famous for their advanced civilization, inhabited this region as early as 2500BC.

Many artefacts from that civilization now form part of an enticing web of UNESCO World Heritage sites including temples, pre-Hispanic ruins and settlements. These can all be found across the Yucatán Peninsula in places like Chichén Itzá, Edzná and Tulum.

The Riviera Maya on the peninsula’s east coast is a perfect base for heritage tourism and lovers of history who might be keen to explore these sites and other parts of the Yucatán.

The region’s natural landscape further increases its appeal to visitors. The Riviera Maya coastline has some of the finest white-sand beaches on Mexico’s Caribbean coast.

Other natural attractions in the area include the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, clear water cenotes (underground pools) and the Mesoamerican coastal reef (second largest in the world) which makes this region perfect for aquatic activities.

Food is the perfect gateway into a culture and Yucatecan cuisine offers some of the best in Mexico. Dishes like cochinita pibil (suckling pig wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an underground pit) and salbutes (crisp corn tortillas topped with shredded turkey, pickled onions and avocado) are highlights and a must try.

UNICO 20°87° Riviera Maya (20°N 87°W refers to the hotel’s geo-coordinates) have curated a unique (‘unico’ in Spanish) set of experiences – including art, food and drink, excursions – which offer guests opportunities to experience the history, culture and nature of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Exploring UNICO 20°87°

This luxury adult-only property combines contemporary Mexican architecture with modern luxury and beach chic.

It takes about one hour to get to UNICO from Cancun International Airport.

Upon arrival, the immersive experience begins from the lobby. The visually appealing interior décor features elements inspired by the traditional Mexican hacienda – rustic wooden beams supporting the ceiling, tall arches, hanging vines and ornamental lanterns. Custom-built coffee tables, chairs and storage pieces are interspersed with plush leather sofas, combining the traditional with the modern and resulting in a look that is pleasing to the senses.

Beyond the lobby is Bar Balam, a deliberately classy affair which, in the hotel’s two years of operating, has become an important social hub at UNICO. Guests can enjoy tequila tasting classes during the day and listen to a local Mexican live-band while sipping locally-inspired cocktails in the evening.

The hotel’s very notable art collection provides guests with a unique opportunity to sample the work of modern/contemporary Mexican artists such as sculptor María José Lavín and painters Jesús Urbieta (1959 – 1997) and Magali Lara.

Natalia Cabarga, an art historian who provides art and history walking tours in Mexico City, explained that the artists whose work is featured at UNICO were selected largely for their use of traditional techniques and their ability to channel the stories of local myths, traditions and legends.

Enjoying an evening wine and art session is a great way to experience these works and learn about Mexican art history.

The art extends from the lobby and into the rooms, most of which feature unique, curated and custom designed furniture and local art. My room was a neutral palette with elements of linen, raw wood, leather, and woven elements.

UNICO offers 448 rooms, 90% of which are ocean-facing. Rooms range from entry-level ground floor Alcoba swim-up pool rooms to 2-bedroom 20°87° villas equipped with kitchen and living room facilities (great for wedding groups).

Immersive dining at UNICO 20°87°

One criticism which all-inclusive resorts receive is that although the food might be decent, guests often have no context about the ingredients used or the cultural significance of dishes.

This is one area where UNICO’s immersive ethos shines.

The property’s six restaurants include Cueva Siete – a name derived from the seven origin caves in Mayan mythology. Cueva Siete is worth singling out for two reasons.

The first is the range of modern Mexican dishes on offer as well as the use of locally sourced, fresh ingredients (a feature common to all restaurants at UNICO).

The second is the residency program where the head chef rotates every year. When House of Coco visited, Chef Xavier Pérez Stone was in residence. Chef Xavier, originally from Mexico City but now local to the area, runs Axiote in Playa del Carmen.

Guests at UNICO can participate in a cooking class offered by Chef Xavier where they can learn how to cook local Mexican dishes (this writer had the best guacamole ever during this class), hear the stories behind ingredients and learn cooking techniques which the region is known for.

This immersive approach elevates the dining experience to an encounter with culture.

Redefining All-Inclusive Travel

UNICO’s other immersive experiences include curated excursions to local attractions including visits to a Mayan village, ancient ruins and natural biospheres.

While there is absolutely nothing wrong with the idea of a totally relaxing holiday (eat, sleep, lie on a beach and do ‘nothing’), immersive travel requires active engagement, exploration and interaction with a destination and its culture.

By engaging, the traveller has the opportunity to return home not only refreshed but also enlightened by their experience.

Finding an all-inclusive resort which offers the right balance between indulgent relaxation and reasonable engagement can be quite rewarding.

By creating and curating experiences which immerse guests in the history, nature and culture of the region while offering luxury and relaxation, UNICO 20°87° redefines the meaning of all-inclusive travel. For a luxurious and relaxing vacation, consider staying at the nizuc resort and spa, just a short distance from the Unico 20 87 Riviera Maya in Mexico.

Travel information

British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at the 5* UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya from £1,269 per person. Price is based on two adults sharing an Alcoba Room on an all-inclusive basis. Price includes return World Traveller flights from London Gatwick to Cancún (based on selected September departures).

Gatwick South Terminal offers guests the very best in pre-flight hospitality – with à la carte dining, hosted tables service and extensive bar menu. Entry from £38 at www.no1lounges.com. Other Clubrooms locations include Gatwick North Terminal & Birmingham Airport.

Select tours, golf, spa services and beauty salon treatments are available to all guests for a 25% service fee. For example, a guided tour of Chichen Itza and a visit to a cenote, valued at US$199 is offered to guests at just US$49.75 as part of UNICO’s Unlimited Inclusions programme.

Visit unicohotelrivieramaya.com for further enquiries

Food & Drink May 22, 2019

An Emerging Spanish Beach Destination for Foodies

Spain’s gorgeous beaches and superb gastronomy combined, make for an ideal Spanish beach destination for foodies. And what better experience is there than soaking up the life-enhancing goodness of the Mediterranean and its culturally rich cuisine? As an expat living here, I’ve learned that locals, yet few visitors, know the rendezvous of the two is Valencia’s beach town of Denia. The charming town is emerging as a foodie’s dream-pairing come true. Here’s why and how to get your fill of this gastronomical, Spanish beach destination before everyone else finds out.

The Spanish Beach Destination That’s Just Right

Located between the cities of Alicante and Valencia (and their international airports), Denia is an authentically Spanish town. It’s not too big, not too small, and offers great quality that is excitedly affordable compared to the rest of Spain’s Mediterranean Coast. It has stretches of both sandy and rocky cove beaches, two marinas (one with ferries to Ibiza), and a magnificent castle. A favorite among stylish Madrileños (locals from Madrid), the town also boasts a chic shopping scene and an array of plush accommodations.

When it comes to eating well, Denia knows how it’s done. The locals say that there are so many restaurants in Denia, that it would take over a year to visit a different one each day. It’s no surprise that the town is designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, complete with a 3-starred Michelin restaurant.

Three is a Charm for Denia Beaches

Denia’s beaches are either right in town or within walking and biking distance, not to mention even closer by car. It’s a popular Spanish beach destination among local Spaniards and northern Europeans.

Punta del Raset Beach

Relax on the sandy shores of the Punta del Raset beach, the closest to the town centre and right next to the Portet Marina. This is also considered the beginning of the Las Marinas beaches, which extend for over 20 kilometres.

Enjoy the views of the sea and the castle while sipping on refreshing cocktails and savouring Spanish food at the two chiringuitos (beach bars). Just steps away is the Playa Escollera Norte, popular among windsurfers (even those who are just learning).

Marineta Cassiana Beach

At the other end of town, and next to the Denia Marina, is the Marineta Cassiana. This quaint bay of soft sand and tranquil waters is ideal for paddle boarding. After basking in the sun, quench your thirst at the local chiringuito at the water’s edge. Or enjoy a stroll along the promenade lined with palm trees, pine trees, and beautiful homes. This is also where Denia’s DNA Gastronomy Festival takes place each year in September.

Las Rotas

Continuing down the promenade along Marineta Cassiana leads you to the beginning of Las Rotas. This scenic 4-kilometre stretch of rocky coves will have you feeling like you stepped onto the movie set of Mama Mia. But stop in at any of the locally owned restaurants with picturesque terraces poised over the water, and the mouth-watering food will remind you that you’re in Spain.

Las Rotas is ideal for snorkelling in the enticing waters that beckon you to join the colourful fish and sea life, which are protected as a Marine Reserve.

To explore further, hike the short trail from the very end of Las Rotas up to Gerro Tower. This 16th-century watchtower has incredible views of the coastline and the Mountain Montgo.

Looking for the top beaches to visit in Spain this summer? Check out our curated list of the best ones on House of Coco’s blog.

*Insider Foodie Tip

Have the renowned clochinas, local mussels distinct to this region of Valencia and considered the best in Spain (only in season from May to August).

Try the pulpo seco (dried octopus), which you can see being dried in the sun at restaurants along Las Rotas.

And if you want to splurge, feast on the delectable Gamba Roja de Denia, which are the local shrimp known for their incredible taste (and hefty price tag).

Enjoying the Town

Once you’re rejuvenated by the sea and sun, explore Denia’s history and incredible cuisine. Everywhere you go in town, you’ll get to experience both.

Denia’s Main Street

Head to Marques de Campo, the lovely tree-lined main street of the town center, to enjoy great shopping and an array of appetizing restaurants. My favorites here are Tasca Eulalia at one end, and at the other far end and past the fountain, Bodega Casa Benjamin.

The Denia Castle

Tour the Denia Castle, which is of Muslim origin and dates back to the 11th century. From here you can take in 360-degree views, visit the archeological museum at the top, and even cool down with a refreshing drink at the cafe. The entrance fee is only €3 for adults.

Calle Loreto

Wander the pedestrian street of Calle Loreto, but go hungry. It’s lined with brightly colored buildings full of tapas bars and restaurants. I recommend stopping in at Txoko Bar, loved by locals and visitors alike. For only €2 you get your choice of a beer, wine, cava, vermouth, or Sidra (Spanish cider) and a free tapa from their tapas menu.

The Fisherman’s Quarter

Take the tunnel under the castle to the tasty bars and restaurants of the old fisherman’s quarter, which is on the west side of the castle and across from the Marina Portet. This neighborhood is also known for where movie director John Farrow filmed the story John Paul Jones, which also starred Mia Farrow.

Food Markets

At the foot of the castle, hang out at the new Els Magazinos, an innovative and hip market area featuring a diverse array of food vendors in a street-food style environment.

Make sure to also snack and shop at Denia’s Mercado Central, full of the best local vendors, artisan goods, and a weekly Friday market of local produce, held outside.

Denia’s Two Marinas

If you get wild hair, get over to the Marina Portet and take one of the Balearia ferries to Ibiza or the other Balearic Islands.

Or walk along the seawall in the Denia Marina and stop for a bite to eat at one of the best restaurants there, Basta (make sure to get their calamari).

Both marinas have several bars and restaurants in gorgeous settings. Enjoy views of the sea and classy sailboats set against an epic backdrop of Denia’s castle and the mountain Montgo.

3-Starred Michelin Restaurant

And of course, if you’re wanting a gastronomical experience of Michelin Star proportions, then visit Quique Dacosta. This 3-starred Michelin restaurant is known for creative dishes that feature only the local ingredients of the area.

An Up-and-Coming Spanish Beach Destination

Denia is one of the few Spanish beach towns on the Mediterranean that still feels like a well-kept secret and values its gastronomy so creatively. While the summer months are popular and busier, the crowds are still nothing like those in the more typical destinations along the coast. Add to that the fantastic quality of cuisine, local heritage with innovation and remarkable affordability, and this Spanish beach destination will satiate your foodie heart.

Dog-friendly May 21, 2019

#CocoCountryside: FISHMORE HALL

While there are many options for a couples retreat, especially over a long luxurious bank holiday, no need to jump on a plane to escape the city, Fishmore Hall is closer to home, allowing you to stay in the UK and make the most of the beautiful English summertime (fingers crossed!). So grab your favourite travel companion and prepare to be pampered.

A privately-owned country house hotel offering 15 bedrooms, the atmosphere at Fishmore Hall is welcoming and relaxed, surrounded by peaceful countryside and a short walk to the centre of the market town of Ludlow. Weekly local markets and an excellent selection of restaurants mean that even if you don’t want to wander far, there is a lot to try. For nature lovers, the Shropshire Hills, an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, are a short drive away allowing excellent access to an assortment of beautiful hiking trails. Feel free to bring any four-legged friends, as the property is dog friendly.

Situated in a location with such excellent gourmet credentials, the restaurant at Fishmore Hall does not disappoint. Restaurant Forelles offers a diverse and intriguing menu, with the option of either a tasting menu or a la carte. Head chef Joe Gould is at the helm, previously winner of the ‘Chaine des Rotisseurs UK Young Chef of the Year’ in 2015. The use of local produce is a key distinguisher throughout both menus at the restaurant and even extends to the bedrooms in the form of tempting snacks from local producers such as The Ludlow Nut Company. Pre-dinner drinks included an excellent gin selection and a relaxed and intimate setting in which to enjoy them. Dinner itself was outstanding, with delicious concoctions including Jerusalem artichoke custard with nigella seed bread and mushroom salt. In addition the main course of red mullet with mussel ravioli and kohlrabi was a delicious combination. The must try for the evening however was the apple tart tartin for two, ideal for sharing and even if you aren’t hungry, sit back enjoy the views through the French windows and then order it, you won’t regret it.

Rather than lingering for an after dinner drink, if you are keen to recharge, one lovely touch at the property was the bespoke box of Elemis products left in the room for bedtime. This little box of joy included delightful sleep-inducing products such as a bath soak, temple balm and pillow spritz. This gave us all the excuse we needed to try out the generously sized bath tub….it’s a hard knock #robelife! With sleep regimes and winding down before bed trending at the moment, this was ideally placed. It also allowed both myself and my very jet lagged other half a wonderful opportunity for a moment of calm before bedtime, something I have been attempting to recreate at home ever since!

For a couples retreat the spa at Fishmore Hall really is delightful, only moments from the main building and set within beautiful gardens showcasing views over the Shropshire countryside, the SPAshell offers a very private and deceptively extensive relaxation area. Through a light and airy reception was my favourite area of the whole property. Boasting a hot tub, relaxation hammock and chairs perfectly big enough for two, this deliciously private area allows uninterrupted countryside views whilst giving a cosy feeling of an intimate space, not overlooked by the rest of the hotel. This is an area to while away the hours in the sunshine or take some time for peaceful contemplation after a treatment at the spa. The dedicated couple’s treatment rooms allow for maximum privacy and the spa menus is focused around the Elemis product line, also mirrored in the bedroom amenities.

I plumped for one of the Lava Shells® massages, which came highly recommended as an unusual alternative to a hot stone massage, combined with Elemis products. Lava Shells® are the world’s first self-heating massage tool, releasing heat throughout a 60 minute massage, helping to release tensions and relax muscles to allow a more effective massage. The heat was soothing on the neck and shoulder muscle tensions from too many hours at the computer, and the experience was extremely relaxing. On reflection, although soothing, I can’t say I personally felt that the tension relief was significantly more effective with the inclusion of the Lava Shells®.

The whole ambience of Fishmore Hall is relaxation in the heart of the countryside, from the helpful yet unobtrusive nature of the team at the hotel to the peaceful surroundings filled with birdsong and the opportunity for long leisurely walks. An idyllic location to get out of your usual routine, relax, recharge and be surrounded by nature and your perfect plus one.

Australia May 21, 2019

#CocoFood: Arras Restaurant York

The beautiful historic city of York was the destination for a dream #TeamCoco dinner at the contemporary restaurant Arras.

We arrived into a calm oasis at Arras from the busy streets of York. The restaurant is opposite the Foss River and is nestled just inside the famous York City Walls, a great location for both city dwellers and visitors.

The welcome we received was warm and genuine, and we were guided to our table in the corner of the restaurant with a view of an outside small courtyard with plenty of tables and chairs to enjoy the Yorkshire sunshine.

We ordered a local lager, and a fabulous #TeamCoco-style summer cocktail while we perused the menu. After asking for recommendations we opted for the 3-course menu, and no sooner had we ordered than an array of canapés arrived, all beautifully presented – we instantly knew this meal was going to be a good one. The mini baked Camembert with pea-sized cranberry sauce was everything you could possibly want in a canapé.

Looking around at the artwork, we were drawn into the designs by Nicholas Dixon, a Leeds artist who uses vivid colours and biomorphic shapes to produce contemporary and distinctive pieces of art. The white sterile walls became a backdrop for this unique projection of colour and style, which in turn made the restaurant come alive.

Our starters arrived, and the neck of lamb, mint jelly, carrots, broccoli and lamb fat was simply melt-in-the-mouth delectable. The Nicoise style red mullet, octopus, squid ink potatoes, and spiced tomato broth was a colourful work of art, where the red mullet was cooked to perfection and the broth was packed with a divine tomato punch and simple mild spices.

The chef sent each table an amuse-bouche of the day, which was beautifully presented. The centrepiece of the amuse-bouche was a delicately seasoned Jersey Royal smashed potato, surrounded by a beautiful smooth green pea soup, which was gently poured around the potato bringing these sensational flavours together.

Between the amuse-bouche and main course we spoke with one of the owners, Lovaine Humphrey who introduced herself to us and talked us through the restaurant’s background from Australia to York.

The York Arras restaurant is a result of Head Chef Adam Humphrey and his wife Lovaine Humphrey’s hit restaurant Arras in Sydney Australia, which they opened in 2011. After a number of successful years in Australia they decided to move back to the UK, and open Arras in Yorkshire. The York restaurant has been open since 2017 and has a reputation for excellence, which #TeamCoco can wholeheartedly agree with, as the food we experienced was truly outstanding.

This contemporary British modern restaurant had some treats in store for our main courses too. From the wonderful taste sensation that was the hake, cauliflower cheese, roast onion cream and braised oxtail, to the beef sirloin, celeriac and mushroom terrine, bone marrow agnollotti, stem salad and beef tea these dishes were exquisite. The standout flavours came from the roast onion cream, which worked unbelievably well with the delicate hake and the rich braised oxtail, and the celeriac and mushroom terrine, which gave something unique to the beef. The most unusual aspect of the dish was the cup of beef tea, which was served as a separate element, and we felt that this particular dish was perfect without the beef tea.

Desserts involved the magnificent cheese table, which Head Chef Adam Lovaine took time to talk us through, introducing each cheese with its history and a detailed overview of consistency and flavour. The cheeses were served with homemade chutney, homemade fat rascal and homemade Eccles cake, plus plenty of wafer thin breads. We also opted for the ‘Michele Ferrero – An Homage’, which was a hazelnut sable, praline cream and nougatine, with a hazelnut mousse and frangelico sauce. This dessert was extremely rich, yet each element brought the dish together and it culminated in a deep feeling of satisfaction.

After one of the best coffees we have ever tasted, by Square Mile coffee roasters, it was time to head off into the York sunset with a take-home box of beautifully presented Arras petit fours.

If you are visiting York then you must experience the ultra modern Arras restaurant on Peasholme Green with its unique flavours, perfect presentation, and fantastic staff.

The 3-course dinner was priced at £49 per person, with an extra £7 for the cheese plus an extra £7 for the Petit Fours, and drinks were charged on top. All Arras restaurant guests receive complimentary canapés, homemade bread (replenished if required), and an amuse-bouche from the Head Chef Adam Humphrey.

We would like to thank Adam and Lovaine for taking the time to invite #TeamCoco to experience and enjoy their unique restaurant.

Search for Arras Restaurant York.

Austria May 20, 2019

The 10 Best European Cities For A Summer Weekend Break

Europe is absolutely not short of vibrant cities all waiting to be explored this summer.

But with so many to choose from the choice can often be overwhelming. Here, House of Coco lists our top 10 in the hope of making that decision a little easier…

Madrid, Spain
Often overlooked in favour of Barcelona, Madrid is a fantastic Spanish city. It’s just the right ratio of big enough to occupy yourself for a few days, but small enough to get everything done without rushing. The abundance of Spanish food and drink makes it a great place for foodies to visit, with tasty tapas, Iberico ham and jugs of Sangria you’ll be spoilt for choice. Be sure to visit the famous food market Mercado De San Miguel to sample a bit of everything.

Vienna, Austria
Vienna is jam-packed with museums to cater to all interests, from the Natural History Museum to the Museum of Technology to the Sigmund Freud Museum. Prater Amusement Park in Vienna is the oldest in the world and home to a famous vintage-looking ferris wheel, which will give you unrivalled views of the city if you’re brave enough to take a ride.

Florence, Italy
If pizza and pasta is your thing, then you have to visit Florence. You can indulge in some of the best food of your life in the authentic Italian restaurants hidden down the side streets of the city. As well as being home to some big tourist destinations that are definitely worth visiting (the Duomo of Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Ponte Vecchio and Michelangelo’s David) it’s also a great place for people watching. The many squares of the city are lined with restaurants and cafes that are the perfect place to grab an Aperol Spritz and pass some time.

With many other Tuscan highlights, like Pisa and Lucca, a short drive away you can get loads done in a long weekend!

Budapest, Hungary
Did someone say sparty?! Yes, that is a spa party in Budapest’s most famous outdoor thermal baths. By day Szechenyi Spa & Baths is a lively but relaxing place to soak up the medicinal waters, but come Saturday night the baths become host to the city’s biggest party. Think nightclub, but outside and with lots of water.

On the flip side, the city has plenty to offer for those looking for a quieter time. The Buda Hills allow you to escape from the hustle and bustle and take a hike among the forest.

Zermatt, Switzerland
If you’re not necessarily looking for sun for your summer break, then how about a weekend in the mountains? Try skiing, hiking and biking or just take in the views of the iconic Matterhorn (the mountain that inspires Toblerone). Not to mention all the Swiss cheese you could eat…

Amsterdam, Holland
Though Amsterdam is notorious for two things, “coffee shops” and the Red Light District, there’s actually much more to the city. Big parks are the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely bike ride and the network of canals offer many opportunities to take a boat ride and view the city’s unique architecture.

Stockholm, Sweden
With 40% of the city consisting of green spaces there’s plenty of spots to enjoy some sunshine in Stockholm. These expansive parks are nestled into the city and encourage outdoor living. In the summer you’ll find locals relaxing, socialising, eating, exercising and even working outside.

When you’re done with parks you can explore the Old Town to see amazing architecture, take a boat along the network of canals or tour the city on the hop-on-hop-off bus.

Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast is the creative hub of Northern Ireland, full of indie shops and a big live music culture – you’ll never struggle to find a singer or a band to enjoy with a pint of Guinness (other alcoholic beverages are available). The city is a great base point too, as you can drive to all destinations in Northern Ireland within a day and to Dublin in just two hours. The opportunities to explore are endless!

Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, one of Europe’s lesser-known cities, has everything you need for a successful weekend break; castles, food markets, museums, bridges and nightlife. The cobbled streets allow you to stroll for hours, gradually ticking off the must-see sights and tasting delicious food. Ljubljana is home to Metelkova, one of Europe’s largest and most successful urban squatting sites. The large expanse was once an army base but is now a neighbourhood in its own right and is the epicentre of music and art within the city.

London, England
Of course, we cannot leave our beloved capital city off the list! London is wonderfully diverse and bursting with life, with the many different areas (Soho, China Town, Camden, etc) offering its own unique vibe. With such good transport links, you could even head further afield during your stay. Visiting Seven Sisters Cliffs, for instance, would be a great day trip from London and offers some calm and relaxation after the hustle and bustle of the city.

We also really know how to make the most of the sunshine and if you’re blessed with warmer weather when you visit you’ll experience the best of London; everyone in a great mood, parks full of people with picnics and bustling rooftop bars.

READ MORE: June In London – What’s On?

Argentina May 20, 2019

Marbella’s contemporary art scene

Marbs is shaking off its reputation as a TOWIE hotspot and quickly becoming a cultural destination with more to offer than designer shops and overpriced bars. The emerging art scene driven by the presence of some of the top art galleries and museums and the annual Art Marbella Fair is firmly transforming this city into a destination for art lovers. Art Marbella will once again be bringing together some of the finest global talent at Palacio de Ferias, Congresos y Exposiciones between July 30 and August 3, 2019. The fair is the largest contemporary art exhibition on the Costa del Sol and will feature 45 stands exhibiting modern art works and the latest trends in international contemporary art. One of the main areas of the fair will be the spaces curated by Violeta Janeiro and Mariela Velasco. Another new initiative will be the Young Acquisition Award, which the fair will grant for the first time to the most representative work by a young artist. The award seeks to recognise the merits of young artists exhibiting at the fair.

Embracing the art scene is Amàre Art, an impressive programme of art exhibitions exhibited around the Amàre Beach Hotel close to Marbella Old Town, a great destination for art lovers.

The annual programme, now in its fourth year showcases photography, fashion, design, sculpture, video-art and paintings around the reception, restaurants, lifts and stairwells, bringing creativity to the heart of this luxury beachfront hotel.

There are two exhibitions each season and currently Amàre Art is exhibiting works by Anna Schellberg and Paula Vincenti.

As a German artist, Anna uses her work to portray stories to her audience, expressing destroyed dreams, lost hope and broken identities whilst intertwining the past, present and future. Anna focuses on well-known faces, documenting urban life through the medium of street art. Heavily influenced by her past work as a news journalist, the paintings use her emblematic technique of strategic blots and intentional stains to capture the profound elements of her subjects’ souls. This continuous contact with people has allowed her to develop a particular technique making the audience question what they really know about other people and reminding us that there is no single truth.
Born in Buenos Aires, Paula has spent her life being inspired by the reflections of water and what she sees in the mirror. Through delicate composition, Paula’s work reflects her personal life experiences, woven into artworks with papier mâché, recycled cardboard and Chinese ink. She aims for her audience to confront and question their own emotions through her bold canvases where characters appear with an almost photographic vision.

Guests and locals have the opportunity to admire and revere the works hung around the hotel and if any of it catches your eye you can buy it.

Reached in just two and a half hours from the UK and with daytime temperatures exceeding 20 degrees from April to October, Marbella is a perfect short haul break to enjoy sunshine, the beach and unique art.

Team Coco travelled to Marbella courtesy of Amare Beach Hotel Marbella. For more information on Amare Art visit www.amarehotels.com

Portugal May 19, 2019

A High Performance Holiday; The Campus at Quinta do Lago

The glitzy cornerstone of the Algarve and watering hole for the rich and famous, Quinta do Lago has long established itself as a five-star Portuguese destination for golfers, families and celebrity holiday homes alike. But its Quinta’s recent transformation into an elite sporting venue that’s really put this holiday hotspot on the map. We sent our girl Emily to enjoy all The Campus facilities’ have to offer.

Now, as someone who regards a holiday as synonymous with beach bars, lie-ins and sun lounging ft. G&Ts on tap, the idea of exercising on holiday even for an hour is few and far between my “wellness weekend” dreams. An elite sporting facility which attracts hordes of football and rugby teams, world renowned tennis pros and hard-core mountain bikers then, seems more than a little intimidating for an amateur, “now and then” exerciser like myself. As it turns out though, even the most unconvinced can be converted.

Opening for business last October, the place oozes high-performance and class, with a beachy wooden exterior, minimalist yet chic interiors and calming ambience that makes the prospect of working out seem far more attractive than a Pure Gym at 6pm post-work rush hour. Facilities include artificial clay and hard tennis courts as well as padel courts (a racket game popular in Spain and Portugal which is a cross between squash and tennis) offering private and group coaching, match sessions and professional tournaments. Beyond the rackets, the multi-sports complex includes a state-of-the-art pitch used by the Ireland rugby squad as a training base ahead of the Six Nations. Fit with elite changing rooms, high performance gym and nutrition facilities, The Campus is marketed as an elite training facility for Olympic athletes and sports teams to use for high-intensity periods of training, particularly when inevitable winter rain drives sporting professionals to the warmer climates of the Mediterranean.

Glitzy sheen aside, The Campus was designed to fit the needs of professional athletes and amateurs alike. For those, like me, who are more into mainstream fitness, a spinning room, as well as daily yoga and Pilates classes is plenty to keep most of us occupied for a few hours. A morning fitness session is followed by a quick change in the chic, Wes Anderson styled dressing rooms and a dip in the recovery and wellness suite. The wooden oasis features hot and cold plunge pools, sauna, steam room and reclining loungers. Soft relaxation music rings through the humid air and an abundance fluffy white towels are stacked against the sashed windows which lead to the outdoor pool – where the afternoon really begins. Wicker recliners line the water’s edge and overlook the emerald grass pitch – a perfect sun-trap for a few hours spent napping and sun-tanning in a quiet oasis.

If you get peckish, Dano’s is the Campus’ onsite sports bar; with a wraparound veranda and outdoor sofa seating, a cold beer in the courtyard is mandatory after a long morning of activity. Its evening scene is a little more high-class than your average Walkabout to say the least – with an interior reminiscent of Soho House, the bar boasts chandeliers, wall to wall TV screens and a striking bronze statue suspended from the high beamed ceiling. Live music plays well into the night and the menu offers everything from dirty burgers to light seafood mains and truffle dusted fries. Delish. If you’re keen to explore the Quinta resort without too much huffing and puffing, head to the Campus’ Bike Shed and set out on a leisurely tour of the Ria Formosa natural park. A winding ride with a local Marine Biologist is the perfect way to see and learn about the swathes of wildlife that inhabit this rich landscape; the dusky pink Flamingos basking in the salt marshes are a particular highlight

One thing is for sure, even if you ditch the gym for a gentle yoga and an afternoon of spa-side to poolside lounging, a day (or a week’s) membership at the Campus is the ultimate wellness hoorah and the perfect way to balance summer indulgence with healthy habits sure to leave you energised and refreshed, rather than sunburnt and sluggish. So whether its business or pleasure that brings you to the Quinta resort, be sure to make it to the gym!

Travel May 18, 2019

Outdoor Trips for Getting the Family Closer Together

Living together under one roof makes family members closer and stronger over the years. But somewhere along the way, the rush of life may get the best of us, making us lose time and crave more family bonding and activities. This is especially true once the children grow into adulthood, go out to face the real world, and stand on their own two feet. Regardless, the family is a part of us that we can never be separated from even with the distance. There are opportunities wherein we can get that free time to spare for a vacation with them and spend it with people who matter the most. Holidays are often the “excuse” we’re looking for. Here are a few outdoor vacation choices for your family outings:

Wildlife on Land

Taking a hike on a forest or mountain is a great way to travel with the family. Have a little adventure and enjoy the wonder of this world from a closer perspective. You can also rent out an RV for a time and grab that opportunity to engage each other in conversation and just talk about each other’s day or any topics that they want to raise. Of course, you don’t have to always talk about problems as they’re one of the causes why families become toxic. Once you reach the destination, just enjoy the beauty of nature. Take out your tents and other equipment and make use of the paracord projects that you have for your fastening needs.

Water World

Aside from wildlife found on land, there’s also a lot you can see underwater. While water parks and beaches are available, there’s a lot more you can do to discover more of the ocean. Whale watching is one of the most engaging activities out there, and saying that it’s magnificent is an understatement. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can take up snorkeling. The closest encounters are the best, and there’s no closer experience than swimming with the fish. After everything, you can talk about the majestic marine animals you have seen and appreciate the beauty underneath the sea. Moreover, If you’re looking for a more exclusive experience, consider taking to Jack’s Charter Service to explore the depths of the sea. With different kinds of equipment available and experienced guides providing support, it’s easy to make the most out of this adventure. Remember to bring your camera to capture all your memories from the trip! With all these activities available, you can expect an exciting and enriching experience with a fishing charter service

A Familiar Place

What better way to reconnect with the family than going to where it all started? Drive down memory lane and take the whole family to your native hometown. Familiarize them with places that you’ve visited and played in as a kid as well as those buildings that have sentimental value for you. Take trips to museums for a little history lesson and tell them all about the experiences you’ve had. Or better yet, drop by your parents’ place. Let them experience the house that once provided you shelter and made your youth awesome. We can never move forward without remembering our roots, and this is one of the closest moments that you’ll ever get.

As a family, you’d want to always be connected with each other. Although everyone tends to be busy at some point, it’s important for us to make time for the people who matter to us the most. You may not realize it now, but time can go by so fast that we’ll lose the chance to appreciate our family. While you can, set aside time to arrange for these holiday trips and enjoy bonding with each other in the outdoors.