Travel - House Of Coco Magazine

Maldives January 22, 2019

Where to stay in the Maldives in 2019

Here at HOC finding new places to show our readers is the most important thing, so when we found out about the brand new resort located North of Male Atoll providing luxury and beyond, we had to check it out. OBLU Select, Sangali… HOC have arrived!

Oblu Select has been open since July 2018 and sits under the Atmosphere Hotel umbrella, so it came with no surprise that in its first week of opening it reached full capacity. Atmosphere Hotels has an already established portfolio and is a well-known brand in luxury resort world, so we knew we were in good company with this trip.

We landed to the warm breeze of the Maldives and took an excited breath at the prospect of a few days full of indulgence with OBLU Select. The transfer from the airport via speedboat was made easy by well directed signs to the OBLU Select arrival desk and 50 minutes later, we were welcomed onto the resort by their wonderful staff. Our room was a villa with a private pool and a secluded walkway onto the beach, it was past 11pm so it was dark but we knew we had a seriously amazing view to wake up to. After nibbling on welcome snacks we hit the sack, spiralling off into a dream of comfort and the knowledge that utter relaxation awaited us (except for the work bit, of course!).

Deluxe Villa with pool at OBLU Select

Our first full day was kickstarted by eagerly jumping out of bed, the night time arrival added to the suspense of how beautiful this resort really is as we were greeted by pure white sand and turquoise waters, whilst our very own pool glistening away in the sun. Their Deluxe Villas are just that, deluxe.

Each room comes equipped with an incredibly detailed ‘resort bible’ which outlines everything you need to know for the duration of your stay including, The Serenity Plan. This plan is what makes your stay hassle-free – it’s a holiday package that focuses on offering the guests everything they will need for an enjoyable stay with OBLU Select. As part of this plan you will have all your food and drink included, as well as dining experiences in their two on-site restaurants, Just veg and Just Grill. On top of that (and dependent on your length of stay) you will be entitled to excursions such as snorkelling or sports activities – it’s a perfect plan because it offers guests that little bit extra. Some of the diving activities are not included with the plan such as swimming with turtles and manta rays. We paid the extra $120 per person for a 5 hour snorkelling session and we couldn’t have been more satisfied.

Water Villas at OBLU Select

We were lucky enough to experience one of those oh-so-famous water bungalows that the Maldives is so well know for and in true OBLU style they were very, very impressive. With all the same features and funky interiors as the deluxe villas, they just had the added wow factor steps leading into the ocean off the back veranda – it was absolutely beautiful and meant you could snorkel off the back of your villa with ease. What a life!

Snorkelling at OBLU SELECT

An 8am start when you’re on holiday is totally OK when you’re in with the chance with swimming with the beautifully majestic Manta Rays and here at OBLU Select, it’s one of the most sought after snorkelling excursions. We headed out to Rasfari Reef under the knowledgeable eye of on-site Marine Biologist and Dive Master, Mat and his team. It takes 1 hour 20 minutes to reach the snorkelling destination which means you can enjoy the ocean breeze and take in those pretty blue views on the top deck. Prior to slipping into the sea to kickstart the snorkel session we had a detailed overview of how to swim with mantas by Mat which was thorough and thoughtful – it was very impressive to see how concerned the resort are about the welfare of the marine life that surrounds the island and we felt in good hands! We were in luck that day as we spotted two graceful manta rays having a clean (where we snorkelled is a popular manta ray cleaning station). It was a really fantastic morning and a definite highlight to our stay.

Eating at OBLU SELECT

During our stay we were able to experience OBLU Select’s three restaurants: the main buffet restaurant, The Courtyard then Just veg and Just Grill for a more fine dining experience. All three, we have to say, were amazing.

The Courtyard

There is nowhere like an all-you-can-eat buffet. It’s the only place where mixing international dishes is a total must-do and we of course, couldn’t help ourselves. Each dish felt ‘a la carte’ and the strong team of chefs running the on-display kitchen clearly took pride in their work. From Sri Lankan curries to exceptional fish dishes and classic pizza choices, its rotating menu was full of variety – this was the same from breakfast through to dinner. Whether it’s the different types of butter available (buckwheat butter… olive butter… – you name it, it’s there!) or the daily fresh fish choices, it’s the finer details that contribute to the success of the resorts dining options.

Just Veg

Located on the West coast of the island and also perched on a solitary island, Just Veg is the resorts vegetarian restaurant. It redefines modern veggie cuisine by combining original recipes with surprising flavour twists and we can safely say, it was a mouth-watering experience. You did not miss the meat at all and it fuelled the desire to focus on a meat-free diet once we had left the resort.

The menus were displayed to us on I-pads which was another way the island focused their attention on producing un-necessary paper and plastic – it also felt incredibly swanky. We devoured a delicious Maldivian curry with pumpkin and a mushroom fungi followed by desserts so tantalising we still can’t stop thinking about them. In addition to its dreamy menu, the restaurant offers incredible sunset views and allows you to check out the awe-inspiring ocean from another angle.

Just Grill

Just Grill is situated in the same breathtaking location as Just Veg and is a combination of fresh seafood and meat selections, all grilled to perfection by OBLU Select’s incredible team of chefs. It was yet again an impressive meal but Just Veg had the edge for us. Its menu felt that bit more exciting and unexpected and really opened our eyes in terms of how delicious vegetarian dishes can be.

Honeymooning at OBLU Select

We were lucky enough to get a sneaky tour of the honeymoon hideaways and instantly wished we were hauled up in one of those beautiful suites – they had romance written all over them. With a luxurious round bed, a bathroom as big as a house, and an Instagrammable infinity pool, these Honeymoon Water Suites oozed serious wow factor. The minimum stay is three nights and you’ll be in for a real treat as some of the extras include butler service, a couples massage and breakfast in bed. Some one find us a husband, pronto!

Going that extra mile at OBLU Select

Extra touches, room:

Scales in the bathroom / Torch / Snack and drinks replenished daily / The White Company toiletries / Chocolates on the pillows / Dressing gowns

Extra touches, resort:

On-site shop / A vegetarian restaurant / No plastic – all glass bottles / Doctor on call / A marine Biologist on site / Water excursions / The Serenity Plan

Why you should pick OBLU Select, Maldives as your choice of vacay in 2019

The OBLU Select is a four-star deluxe resort with a five-star service, from its friendly staff to its awe-inspiring views, it is a magical place where the guests truly come first. So whether you’re a honeymooner after a slice of paradise, a family looking to escape the chaos of everyday life or a couple hoping to recharge, OBLU Select and their exquisite serenity plan is the place to come, unwind and just feel totally and utterly serene. It will be worth every penny.

OBLU SelectSangeli Island,North Male’ Atoll,The Maldiveswww.oblu-sangeli.comEmail : sales@oblu-sangeli.comPhone : (+960) 400 4501

Australia January 22, 2019

An evening in The Violet Hour: Uncovering a secret bar in the Windy City

It’s an ode to prohibition minus the kitsch, Al Capone without the Scarface and Gatsby steered clear of any ‘I hope she’ll be a fool’ Instagram captions. Located right in the heart of the busy, colourful neighbourhood of Wicker Park, The Violet Hour encompasses Chicago speakeasy cool.

The outside of the bar is painted with a bright mural which constantly changes throughout the year, making it all the more difficult to find! An unassuming old-fashioned street lamp lets people know whether the bar is open or closed, right next to a very out of place looking door handle. After opening the door into the mural we were ushered into a pitch black waiting area and then taken behind heavy velvet curtains to the main bar fit with tall high-backed blue leather chairs, a beautiful sweeping marble bar, light blue walls, extravagant chandeliers and hushed tones. We were also met with the bar’s tongue-in-cheek ‘House Rules’ which include the following:

No cell phones inside

No baseball hats

No reservations

No Jager-bombs

No bombs of any kind

No Budweiser

No Grey Goose

Please do not bring anyone to The Violet Hour that you wouldn’t bring to your mother’s house for Sunday Dinner.

This was music to my ears after studying in the USA and attributing all American bars with watery beer, backward caps and loud frat boys, albeit unfairly so.

We were handed a cocktail menu and the dapper waiter convinced us to try his favourite, Fox’s Socks, a marvellous mix of gin, celery root and lime bitters…safe to say it didn’t take much persuading…at all. We would recommend trying the scrumptious Ricotta Gnocchi, Pommes Frites with roasted garlic aioli and the Autumnal Flatbread. With no phones allowed, time ran away with us and of course more drinks in fabulous glasses were ordered and we filled up on the Cheeseburger Sliders (we were in the USA after all)! The service was top notch and the bartenders had serious passion and knowledge about every drink they were serving.

The Violet Hour is a top spot in the city and brings all the glitz of Chicago yesteryear with an amazing menu of drinks including locally distilled spirits from the surrounding areas (sampling the gin from North Shore Distillery is a must). At the end of the evening, rather than using my phone torch to find my lipstick for my exit, I used one of the many candles on the table which made everything seem gorgeously more glamorous.

Oh – and Absinthe Happy Hour is from 6-8 from Monday to Thursday. Cheers to prohibition!

The Violet Hour is located at 1520 North Damen Avenue, Chicago. For more information visit www.theviolethour.com or @violethourchicago.

Travel January 21, 2019

Helpful Tips And Tricks When Visiting California

California is one of the biggest and most diverse States when it comes to people and terrain. It has the largest population in the US and is the third largest State and a popular tourist destination due to its crowded cities, mountains, deserts, forests and beaches.

There are a few handy tips and tricks for you to consider when you’re planning a trip to California.

Sun Protection

California is favoured for its sunny days, but it is vital to protect yourself and your family from harmful sunray. Always pack a pair of sunglasses, sunscreen with a good SPF and a hat for daytime activities in the outdoors.

Be Prepared

Be sure to check weather conditions, listen to advisories and never be unprepared when you’re planning a hiking trip or excursion. Always let people know where you’ll be going and when you can be expected to return. Never hike alone, stick to the trails and pack enough drinking water.

Visiting During Off-season

When visiting California during off-season or shoulder season (between peak and off-season) you can avoid the crowds and save money on hotel and resort booking fees. The costs are generally higher during the Summer. Instead, plan a trip for fall or Spring which are also beautiful seasons. However, in some desert areas, i.e. Palm Springs and ski towns, the Summer months are less crowded.

Making Use Of Public Transport

There are plenty of landmarks, museums, sights and tours that are worthwhile paying a visit to. To name only a view of the popular sites Monterey Bay Aquarium, queen mary tours, San Francisco museum, Alcatraz Island and Catalina island will make your trip a memorable one with lasting memories. Specific areas of California can be visited without the need for a car. For areas where parking is expensive or tricky to get into, you can consider buses and trains in Central Los Angeles. In San Francisco where you can find transport options such as streetcars, light rail, coaches, and cable cars. For after-hours you can order a taxi, Lyft or Uber services.

Emergency Numbers

In case of emergency, you can call the following numbers:

Dial 911 for emergencies.
Dial 311 for local enquiries or information.
Dial 411 for directory enquiries.

Water Safety

When planning boat trips, always use safety jackets, never go alone, be vigilant of the tides by using a tide chart and pay attention to hazardous signs and advisories.

Driving Conditions

The roads along the mountain and coastal areas can be narrow and winding and should be driven at a slow pace. Snowy areas may require chains attached to the tyres. Due to lane splitting being legally accepted in California, be mindful of motorcycles passing vehicles and driving in between and along lanes.

Wildlife And Animals

There are dangerous wildlife and animals to be vigilant of and always practice caution and speak to professionals about what you need to do in the event of you coming across any of them.

Rattlesnakes
Mountain lions
Black bears
Coyotes

Camping

When you are going on a camping excursion, always practice campfire safety and make sure you have the required permits to create an open fire and use taxi perth.

Travel January 20, 2019

Looking For A Hotel Stay Near To Heathrow? Look No Further!

Gone are the days of staying in shoddy accommodation the night before catching a flight! Why not start the holiday early with a relaxing day or two in a comfy bed, a relaxing spa, with great food?

Just before Christmas, we visited the Runnymede on Thames Hotel and Spa in Egham, near to Heathrow airport. We thought we’d review this hotel as people are often looking for a nice hotel to stay in before catching their flight, to alleviate the stress of flying, and ‘The Runnymede’ is a great choice!

On arrival, the first thing we noticed was the beautifully lit tipi outside the entrance of the hotel, whilst it was freezing outside, we asked if we could have a drink in the tipi to which they obliged. The reception area was beautifully decorated and felt very festive as you can imagine. It was particularly busy due to work Christmas parties which caused for a great atmosphere. We were given a lovely room that overlooked the river, which of course we couldn’t appreciate until the morning due to it being dark outside, but a lovely, cosy room nonetheless. As odd as it sounds we particularly liked the bathroom and the large mirror across the wall.

Dinner can only be described as fantastic! From the first course to dessert, it was all delicious, with the mussels being a particular favourite of ours. The table staff were also lovely, when asked their opinions on meals and wines, they appeared to be very knowledgeable in their responses and recommended some great choices.

In the morning we went for a swim and sauna in the spa, it was very quiet, calm and relaxing and had a lovely zen feel, perfect for those that are catching a flight that day. We also checked out their new infrared sauna, which is a great bit of technology. We then had a tour of the hotel by the hotel Manager who informed us of some interesting facts about the facility and also showed us the beautiful terrace that we weren’t able to see the night before. It was lovely even on a cold December morning, so we can only imagine how nice it would be during the summer. He then showed us some of the exciting things that guests can do during their stay, such as make use of the hot tub on the river, or take a trip in their very own ‘The Runnymede’ boat down the Thames.

Similarly to dinner, breakfast was delicious with a fine selection of choices such as Full English, pastries or cereal. We went for the Full English and it was a great choice. The room in which we had breakfast was on the river front and had lovely views and again, the table staff were great, recommending us things to do in the area.

Overall the stay was very enjoyable. Whilst the rooms were lovely and the bed very comfy, for us, the highlight of the stay had to be the food. Both dinner and breakfast excelled our expectations, simply due to the fact it is not known for being a restaurant, but a Hotel and Spa, and the choice was fantastic. We also thoroughly enjoyed the spa time and would recommend the ‘The Runnymede’ for those travelling from Heathrow Airport, looking for a hotel prior to their flight, or simply for those looking for a relaxing night away.

Oman January 20, 2019

Three ways to enjoy the sands of Oman

I used to think that the best feeling in the world was the sand between my toes on a beach. I still kind of believe that, but I also wholeheartedly know that it can be enjoyed in so many other ways too.

Sink right in

If a weighted blanket is your favourite home accessory then there’s a perfect spa treatment for you at the Uru Spa by Dunes by Al Nahda in Muscat. Is it too far to go? No, no it’s not. Not when you get to get to combine the comfortable weight of sand holding you snug with the beauty of an open air spa.

Let the sand soak your stress away as the warmth of the sun tickles your neck, as a heavenly mask renews your face and the silence of the world around you brings you back to yourself. Previous to visiting Dunes by Al Nahda I would have told you that being in a sand bath wasn’t my idea of zen, but I’m happy to have been corrected.

This is just the start to a treatment that quiets the mind, and when you’re scrubbed and massaged you’ll forget all the stresses of the world for good.

Strap into a thrill ride

Once your heart rate has settled to a gentle 60pm, you can step things back up a notch (or five) with dune bashing. For the uninitiated, dune bashing is taking a high speed ride over the rolling hills of sand in a land rover, a skilled driver bringing you to the brink of the dunes, looking over valleys of sand as you lean into your seatbelt and take in the view. Like the edge of a roller coaster you wait with baited breath, until your driver takes you down and down, the world dropping away until your heartbeat comes back to normal. When it finally does, it’s time to go up again, skyrocketing through impossible angles, knowing your safe in the hands of a professional and that the thrills won’t stop coming.

Ride over the edge

For the truly brave it’s possible to take things one step further still, lose the seatbelt, grab a crash helmet and take one of Dunes’ quadbikes out into the sand. The wind whips over your skin to provide the perfect contrast to the beating desert sun. If you’re feeling competitive you can race with your friends over the vast landscape, and you can never be sure of whose heart will beat loudest or who will win. The perfect opportunity for the underdog to take the crown.

There’s never a bad time to dash over the dunes, but a personal favourite comes in that golden hour where the sun starts to sink and the world truly glows. The shadows cast as you traverse the planes settle you down as your adrenaline goes up, a counter-balance unlike any other.

There’s no bad way to enjoy to sand. I still adore the feeling of it between my toes. It has this power to ground us, to let us literally sink into the world we come from and to feel a part of it. I can’t say what your favourite would be — but I’d be curious to find out.

Australia January 17, 2019

9 Dubai hotels to help you explore every neighbourhood

There’s so little time and so much to do in the emirate… But if you need an excuse to branch out and explore different neighbourhoods, consider these Dubai hotels when it comes to picking where to dine, soak up the city views and rest your head.

1. Caesars Palace – Bluewaters Island

This Las Vegas favourite has now landed in the United Arab Emirates so if you can’t live out your The Hangover fantasies in Nevada itself, there’s always the desert of Dubai. Just like in Sin City you can indulge in treatments at Qua Spa. Instead of glimpsing the High Roller in Vegas you can take in the sights of the world’s largest observation wheel, Ain Dubai, which is also situated on this manmade island.

There are 12 dining spots to enjoy at the resort including Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen – another Vegas hotspot – and pools for days to really give true meaning to the name Bluewaters Island.

www.caesars.com/dubai

2. The Address – Dubai Marina

Attached to Dubai Marina Mall, this one’s a great choice for retail therapy lovers who want to be right next to the biggest brands from across the world, all under one roof. Think of all your favorite European and American brands, sprinkle it with some local flavor and you get the idea. The hotel is just one of many of the same name dotted around the emirate. The one in the Marina neighborhood is the home of Shades, a serene pool lounge popular for sundowners, and the international restaurant, Ruth’s Chris Steak House which is loved by the Kardashians. Stay here and the cherry on top is gorgeous views of the water. Just dropping by is easy too as the Marina Mall tram stops right outside the hotel.

www.addresshotels.com/en/hotels/address-dubai-marina/

3. Atlantis, The Palm – Palm Jumeirah

Located at the centre of the crescent of The Palm – a manmade island shaped like a palm tree – this ocean-themed resort is noticeable from all around Dubai. The site features a variety of marine and entertainment attractions, as well as Aquaventure Waterpark. It’s home to one of the largest open-air marine habitats in the world, with over 65,000 animals in lagoons at the Lost Chambers Aquarium. Once you’ve worked up an appetite swimming with dolphins and gazing at sea lions, book a meal at Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen & Bar or Nobu. In fact, with so many tourists lining outside to get pictures of the magnificent structure, a dining booking is one of your best bets for getting up close.

www.atlantisthepalm.com

4. TRYP by Wyndham – Barsha Heights

While Barsha Heights isn’t in a particularly touristy area, the residential neighbourhood is where you’ll find this city of expats winds down with a spot fo karaoke at Lucky Voice or continues the party in casual style post-brunch. For that reason, the area is a bit of a secret spot for when it comes to booking more affordable hotel stays. TRYP by Wyndham’s claim to fame has to Barbary Deli + Cocktail Club, a dark and sultry restaurant and bar, that attracts celebrity guests. With it going against the grain in the conservative city and playing sexy movies on-screen, it’s no wonder people are flocking to experience it. For a more family-friendly experience take to the terrace when the weather allows.

www.trypwyndhamdubai.com

5. Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai – DIFC

Another global brand in Dubai, this hotel puts you in the heart of the Financial District as its appeal is heightened by the offering at ikandy ultralounge. For unobstructed views of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, head to the stunning rooftop poolside terrace accessible from the Sheikh Zayed Road, which runs through Dubai to Abu Dhabi. It’s Vietnamese restaurant Hoi An is also regarded as one of the nest South East Asian spots in Dubai.

www.shangri-la.com/dubai/shangrila

6. La Ville Hotel & Suites – City Walk Dubai

The contemporary 5-star hotel is right on City Walk, an outdoor stretch of shops that are popular with the locals. The area is especially pretty when lit up at night and it makes for a much cooler stroll down the shiny pavements lined with eateries such as Sugar Factory when the sun goes down. Staying at La Ville also means good proximity to Green Planet, and indoor jungle filled with birds, spiders (in cases of course) and even cute sloths.

That’s if you can bear to leave the hotel which creates a chilled out vibe with its live music offering in the courtyard, and poolside brunch.

www.livelaville.com

7. Palazzo Versace Dubai – Culture Village

Reminiscent of a 16th century Italian Palace, there’s no mistaking you’re at Palazzo Versace Dubai with a striking entrance that features the designer brand’s logo on the lobby floor. They take Italian furnishings to the extreme with an entire restaurant that will remind you THAT Jennifer Lopez Grammys dress. Yes, the walls and chairs at Giardino are botanical print and every piece of furniture and fabric in the 215 hotel rooms and suites are designed and tailor-made by Versace exclusively for the hotel.

Less than 15 minutes away from Dubai International Airport and located along the shores of the historic Dubai Creek, it’s also the setting of Quincy Jones’ first jazz club and a restaurant named Enigma which changes its concept seasonally.

www.palazzoversace.ae

8. QE2 – Mina Rashid

Ever wanted to go on a cruise but not sure you could commit with being stuck on the water? This is a happy medium with the Queen Elizabeth ship named the QE2 finding a home in Dubai. The QE2 completed 1,400 voyages, sailed 6 million nautical miles and hosted almost 2.5 million passengers. After completing 25 tours around the world in 39 years, now Dubai visitors can sleep in a cabin but don’t worry, it’s not going anywhere. So you can pretend to be Jack and Rose on the Titanic without any feelings of dread.

www.qe2.com

9. Lapita – Jebel Ali

Theme park fans only need to consider one place to stay when in Dubai. Lapita is located right by Dubai Parks and Resorts which is collectively the world’s largest theme park. Comprised of Legoland Dubai, Legoland Waterpark, Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks and linked together by Riverland, you only need to walk or hop on a buggy between your bed and all the rides. The Polynesian-themed accommodation is catered for kids to have a great time but adults are well taken care of in the various restaurants, bars and in the spa.

www.dubaiparksandresorts.com/en/lapita

Food & Drink January 11, 2019

The coolest brunch spot in Weligama, Sri Lanka

As Sri Lanka continues to be the top rated destination in 2019 for travellers alike then naturally, here at HOC, we want in on a slice of the action too. Whether it’s beach life you’re after or some rural jungle exploring, Sri Lanka really does have it all.

Ever heard of Weligama? Nope neither had we but boy are we glad we kicked 2019 off by ticking it off our travel bucket list. Weligama is the place to be if you want to learn how to surf as an abundance of surf schools line the beach offering cheap rates plus the board hire. If you’re a keen surfer then the waves along this beachy strip should be just what you’re after but they are also great for beginners too. Weligama offers a bit of everything for everyone which includes some very delicious food spots too.

We paid a visit to the oh-so-instagrammable Nomad Cafe & Boutique and it was well worth it. This stylish cafe boasted a chic menu full of smoothie bowls, delicious juices and avo on toast with a twist, all with a strong influences from Bali and London. You can also grab a coffee with coconut milk which is a rarity here in Sri Lanka as most coffees come black and with sugar if you don’t ask for it without! It was home from home in a sense and was a refreshingly healthy escape from the heat.

Visiting other parts of the world should be all about experiencing new sights and taking in the cultures and ways of life of the destination which of course, we love doing here at HOC. But sometimes, a little taste of home doesn’t go a miss and a delicious smoothie bowl enjoyed in a beautiful oasis-like courtyard away from the hustle and bustle was just what we needed!

Nomad Cafe & Boutique

640 Matara Road

Weligama, Sri Lanka

81700

Empire of Japan January 9, 2019

Ten reasons why you should consider Bournemouth for your next staycation

Spend a day relaxing upon miles of golden award-winning beaches, strolling through manicured tropical gardens, closely followed by a visit to some incredible vintage shops, luxury boutiques and galleries, finishing your perfect day out with a cheeky cocktail or two and a delicious dinner in a top restaurant? Where are you? The Caribbean, Hawaii or somewhere equally exotic? Try somewhere a bit closer to home.

Welcome to Bournemouth.

Historically the playground of rich Victorians, Bournemouth has come a long way over the last 150 years and has shrugged off its previous stag do image and coach tour reputation and is now one of the most popular places to visit in the UK. Once deemed as a place when you go to retire, Bournemouth is now a cosmopolitan destination that is fast becoming the must-visit place for seasoned travellers to visit.

Whilst #TeamCoco love and live to travel, sometimes the heart wants to be on your home turf and for me – Bournemouth is home and more and more people are not only choosing to live here but to visit too and here’s why.

Its award-winning beaches

It was voted as the UK’s Best Seaside Town in the British Travel Awards in 2017 and has recently been crowned as the best beach in the UK in Trip Advisor’s annual Traveller’s Choice Awards. The beaches in Bournemouth were even voted the 5th best in Europe beating the likes of Sicily, Crete and more. What’s more, if you opt to travel a little further afield, you can enjoy the stunning landscape of the impressive Jurassic Coast that stretches from Dorset through to neighbouring Devon which is a World Heritage Site.

The beautiful surroundings

Bournemouth enjoys a special micro climate and whilst I am no meteorologist, statistically speaking Bournemouth’s temperatures are generally deemed several degrees above the rest of the country which is evident by the presence of palm trees in the tropical gardens of nearby Alum Chine. These pretty gardens, which have their origins in the 1920s, provide an ideal area for contemplation whilst gazing upon the striking landscape design and stunning views.

It’s home to the UK’s best eco-friendly hotel

So, where to stay? There are hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, from boutique hotels to quirky cottages to rent. Our top picks include the UK’s ‘Best Green Hotel in the UK 2017’which is an eco-friendly luxury hotel situated close to Bournemouth’s award-winning beaches which is ideal for a simple yet luxurious staycation.

The hotel’s restaurant ‘Arbor’ has an oak sculpture reconstructed as a tree and the furniture is made from sustainable materials, even the paint and wallpaper are eco-friendly. The hotel also uses a solar panel to heat water. Think glam but green! Don’t forget to check out their quirky but tasty afternoon teas.

If you are looking for a sea view, you can’t get much closer than the Bournemouth Beach Lodges which are charming little beach huts located on the seafront. If you love glamping, then these cute little lodges which come with a galley kitchen for you to cook on are ideal and offer an enchanting overnight stay where you can wake up to some of the UK’s most beautiful beaches.

For a traditional luxury hotel, look no further than the Hilton Bournemouth. Situated in the heart of Bournemouth betwixt the beach and the bustling town, the Hilton is a glamourous boutique hotel renowned for its bespoke interiors and furnishings. It is achingly stylish inside and you can find retro tourism posters and other quirky accessories throughout the rooms and hotel.

Its amazing restaurants and eateries

If like me, your immediate thought is where can I eat and what can I eat, then rest assured that Bournemouth has a superb range of restaurants, eateries and cafes. There are hundreds of places across the county of Dorset to try. From fresh seafood and local produce to traditional Dorset cream teas, you won’t be disappointed.

Banque & Bohem offers seasonal fresh produce, delicious cocktails alongside Prosecco-laden high teas and Saturday brunches. This stylish cocktail bar and restaurant is on the site of a former bank and actually has the old vaults in place at the back of the restaurant.

From a design perspective, this is simply superb and includes ornate chandeliers, a feature door (formally the old bank vault door) and a Monet-inspired design feature. There are private rooms available to hire for birthday parties, baby showers and similar decorated in extravagant peacock embellished wallpaper and decadent leather sofas. They have an impressive range of cocktails, my recommendation? ‘The English Garden’ which is a delightful mix of Hendricks Gin, Elderflower Liqueur, Lime and Mint which makes a gorgeous and refreshing drink which is ideal for accompanying any meal.

Schpoons & Forx which is situated at the uber-glam Hilton is home to renowned chef and TV personality Matt Tebbutt’s modern British restaurant. This elegant eatery features a lively open kitchen with a contemporary décor designed to entertain, amuse and inspire conversation. This vibrant place with a tandoor and stone oven offers an intimate dining experience where the menu is strongly influenced by seasonal and locally-sourced produce. Why not try the whole South Coast Sole, tandoor roasted served with potted shrimp butter?

From Greek and Nepalese to Spanish and Japanese, you enjoy a multitude of worldwide cuisines from within a short distance of Bournemouth beach. One of the best places to eat curry in not just Bournemouth, but throughout the entire county of Dorset and beyond is Indi’s. Not only do they have the most delicious food, they offer exceptional service in a relaxed but chic setting in a modern restaurant that features pale wood, white furniture and modern art which lends this Indian restaurant a contemporary edge. It is situated in Westbourne, one of the coolest districts within Bournemouth which is home to vast selection of boutique, individual combined with plenty of places to eat, drink and relax.

Whilst you are in Westbourne, you simply must check out Renoufs, where diners are served a stunning array of the very best and finest local and international wines and cheeses alongside stunning charcuterie boards with complimenting chutneys and sides – #Youhadmeatcheese! One of the highlights is a flight of either white, rose or red wines – a fantastic way to try new and exciting wines.

It is in Sandbanks where you will find some amazing fine dining restaurants including Rick Stein restaurant that serves deliciously fresh seafood and meat dishes whilst gazing at the stunning views across the water.

It has its very own gin scene!

Hands up if you love gin? Us too! Gin continues to be one of the most popular drinks of 2018 and a visit to Gin Jam’s is the ideal destination to explore an incredible range of gins including locally-distilled gins such as Conker, Fordington and Lilliput.

Its incredible nightlife

Bournemouth has a bustling nightlife which includes some amazing bars and nightclubs. Try Sixty Million Postcards which is a funky and eclectic bar which features pieces of art designed and created by local artists. Here you can choose from a superb range of artisan beers and gins, listen to live music or simply hang out and play board games with friends.

If you are looking for cocktails and let’s be frank – who isn’t?! Then a visit to the Be At One Cocktail Bar is a must. This stylish cocktail bar is situated a short walk from the beach and features a wide range of amazing cocktails made by expert bartenders.

Enjoy a relaxing drink coupled with stunning panoramic views of the dramatic vista of the coastline along the English Channel to the centre of Bournemouth at the Hilton’s Level8ight Sky Bar, where the décor is highly influenced by the sea; opulently styled in hues of teal, gold and charcoal, taking inspiration the changing light over the water.

For a late-night drink, you have to try Smokin’ Aces cocktail bar and whiskey lounge which fuses sophisticated style with a rock ‘n’ roll twist. Drink perfectly mixed cocktails whilst chilling out listening to live bands and DJs.

You can shop until you drop

If you love to shop, then you won’t be disappointed, as well as the usual high street stores, you can find unique shops and boutiques throughout the town. If you love all things vintage, then head to Pokesdown – the vintage mecca of Bournemouth. This quaint Victorian suburb to the east of the town is fast becoming Bournemouth’s creative quarter. It is home to some of the South Coast’s most loved vintage shops such as Vintage Clobber where you can buy anything from a 1950’s style swing dress to a 1970s band tee-shirt. It is truly an Aladdin’s cave of vintage goodies.

Situated just a ten- minute walk away from Clobber (and other vintage and antique shops) lies the Bournemouth Vintage Emporium which is chock full of vintage accessories for the home, vintage clothing, antique furniture and old vinyl. It also has a kitsch little tearoom where you can relax and make believe that you are on the set of an old school film.

You can do as little or as much as you want – including surfing!

Feeling active? Why not don a bicycle from the promenade of Bournemouth to the stunning Hengistbury Head (which is situated between Bournemouth and Mudeford) where you can take in the views over the coastline and sample some local Purbeck ice cream before heading back to town.

For the super adventurous, there’s a zipline that whisks you from the end of the pier onto the beach. It’s not for everyone but is an exhilarating experience that you will remember always.

Surf culture has been ever-growing in Bournemouth over the last couple of decades and if you have never surfed before, Bournemouth is definitely a wonderful place to try it for the first time. As well as surfing, you can try kayaking and paddle boarding at Boscombe beach (just outside of Bournemouth town centre) and can try windsurfing and more at the world-renowned Sandbanks, a mere fifteen-minutes’ drive away from Bournemouth town centre.

It’s home to some of the UK’s coolest festivals and gigs

So, you have eaten, drunk (hopefully danced… a bit) and you are probably looking for some culture? You are in luck. Not only is Bournemouth host to several cool live music venues where you can see world famous bands, up and coming artists and more, but you can also enjoy great festivals in the wider Dorset area such as Bestival, Camp Bestival, End of the Road, Teddy Rocks and the Larmer Tree Festival amongst others.

It has its very own treasure trove of art and eclectic curios

Bournemouth has always had a unique historical and cultural offering and no trip to Bournemouth should be without a visit to the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum. This is truly a treasure trove of Victorian eccentricities nestled amongst world-renowned artworks (Victorian and Pre-Raphaelite, sculptures and curios from all over the world. It is perched upon the clifftop overlooking the sea in an extravagant villa which blends an intriguing mix of architectural styles inspired by Italy, Japan, France, Scotland and more.

If you haven’t had the opportunity to visit Bournemouth before, come on down. It has palm trees, hip boutiques, glorious vistas, some of the best restaurants in the south and let’s not forget seven miles of award-winning beaches. It is only two and half hours from London and is an ideal place for a relaxing and revitalising break. Bournemouth is a thriving cosmopolitan place to visit and has plenty to offer the discerning traveller.

France January 7, 2019

The most extravagant hotel rooms in the world

When you stay overnight in a hotel you pay for the comfort and luxury it brings – a home away from home. Now imagine if your hotel room was equipped with the most luxurious interiors with possibly a jacuzzi tub in room and breathtaking landscapes, a space fit for royalty! There are hotel suites all over the world which are worth more than your rent for the next five years and as you can expect, every single penny is worth it.

Whilst the hotel rooms don all the latest gadgets and jewels, you need to remember this lifestyle doesn’t come cheap and those that can afford to stay in these rooms are living a life to match.

To round up the top 7 most extravagant hotel rooms in the world which will make your jaws drop, the experts at Naturalmat have done the job. To name a few, they have over 50 rooms in the Duoro Valley Hotel, Portugal containing their natural fibre and spring mattresses and a sleep system in the Mas Salagros Eco Resort, Portugal – they certainly know what makes for a luxury hotel room.

The Grand Riad, The Royal Mansour

Where? Marrakech, Morocco

Price? $43,480 per night

The Grand Riad should be your top choice if you feel like living like Moroccan royalty. It has one of the best views of the city which even rivals the Koutoubia Mosque tower. Inside the space has been utilised in the right way: home cinema, personal bar and gym and even your very own spa room. The décor is traditional Moroccan royalty with chic accents that truly make you feel very special as it is truly breathtaking.

The Penthouse Suite, Hôtel Martinez

Where? Cannes, France

Price? $53,200 per night

This suite is on the highest floor of Hôtel Martinez and is home to celebrity favourites for the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. The suite is 1000 square foot which comes equipped with a large private terrace overlooking the glorious views of the sea alongside a king bed, living & dining room.

The Palms Empathy Suite, Palms Casino Resort

Where? Las Vegas, Nevada USA

Price? $100,000 a night

This suite is the work of British artist Damien Hirst – it is 9,000 square foot and sleeps 4 people. The breathtaking suite is spread between two stories and overlooks the legendary Vegas Strip. For the price you would expect a lot and so you should – a 24-hour butler service, a private property tour, chaffered car service, A-list access to day and nightclubs, a recording studio and $10k credit to spend on site. Also it’s wise to take note there is a two-night minimum stay!

The Muraka, The Conrad Maldives

Where? Maldives, South Asia

Price? $50,000 a night

The Muraka suite is the world’s first underwater hotel suite but there is a four-night minimum stay required – but you would never want to leave! The suite is two stories tall with the underwater part being 16 feet below the Indian ocean. For $50k a night you will enjoy a private chef, butler, boat, bar, gym and your very own infinity pool. Plus by staying here you will be upgraded automatically to the Hilton Diamond status.

Image credit: South China Morning Post

The Royal Penthouse Suite, Hotel President

Where? Geneva, Switzerland

Price? $85,000 a night

The Royal Penthouse Suite is across the entire 8th floor and overlooks the best setting of them all – Lake Geneva. The suite holds the name of being the largest in Europe. The penthouse fits 1680 square metres with a jacuzzi facing the lake, a billiard table, a grand piano, a telescope for stargazing, a terrace, 12 bedrooms and at 103 inches – one of the world’s biggest TV screens. Previous guests include Rihanna, Matt Damon and Saudi royalty.

Image credit: True 5 Stars

Villa Bulgari, BVLGARI Resort and Residences

Where? Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Price? $42,000

BVLGARI is located on its own private, man-made island. With a magnificent white sand beach exterior, the resort can be accessed by a 300-metre bridge from the mainland. The resort is home to a European-style design from architects Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel. The Villa Bulgari is a three-bedroom, 1000 square metres villa with a private beach, personal security guard, an oval pool, indoor jacuzzi, home cinema, private gym and a hammam.

Image credit: Bulgari Hotel

The Apartment, London Connaught

Where? London, United Kingdom

Price? £17,000

Guests who stay over at the London Connaught in The Apartment will be immersed into the culture that is on offer. The suite resembles Mayfair vibes and was designed by David Collins. It contains commissioned artworks, limited edition books and beautiful white and blue interiors. You can also get your dinner cooked by Helene Darroze and serviced by the impeccable Connaught butlers.

Image credit: David Collins Studio

Australia January 4, 2019

Where to grab a breakfast if you’re visiting Galle in Sri Lanka

If Sri Lanka is on your holiday hit-list for 2019 (which is should be as it’s ranked the no.1 destination for 2019 according to Lonely Planet) then make sure that a few days is the Unesco World Heritage Site, city of Galle, is part of your Sri Lankan vacay.

Its beautiful cobbled streets are lined with stylish cafes and boutiques with old hotels that have been restored to their former beauty by local writers and artists. It’s European influence is notable throughout thanks to its stunning architecture as the main Galle Fort was originally built by the Dutch back in 1663 – the Sri Lankan and European twist is quite something and definitely worth seeing.

Here at HOC our main aim of the game is to explore, and explore we did with Galle! We stumbled across a quirky cafe and bistro and the smell of strong coffee lured us in. The Heritage Cafe & Bistro sits on the old The National Bakery which was previously an institution as it featured the first wood fired oven in Sri Lanka. The oven has been preserved all these years later (the oven dates back some 300 years!) and is a strong influence to The Heritage Cafe & Bistro menu.

The interior was exquisite and we popped our tired bums down in a comfy looking corner with a colourful array of cushions and a view of the bistro. We ordered a fresh juice from their delectable brekkie menu and set about planning the rest of our day in our new cool and comfy surroundings. Our juice of choice was the Goji Emoji and its refreshing bursts of papaya, Mango and goji berries was just what we needed!

Their menu boosts some impressive dishes and is an electic mix of Asia, Australia, the Middle East and beyond. The seafood and vegetables are all sourced locally and the pastries, cakes and bread are made on-site in their wood fire oven. This sumptuous menu really does have something for everyone.

So whether you’re looking to cool off with a fresh juice or devour a yummy brunch, The Heritage Cafe & Bistro is a must-do for travellers in Southern Sri Lanka.

Corner of Pedlar and Lighthouse Streets, Galle Fort, Galle, Sri Lanka

+94 01 420 0140

heritagecafeandbistro@gmail.com