Marrakech is an aesthetic dream but there is so much more to this magical city than meets the eye. We spent an enriching few days exploring every corner of the city, from the mosaic walls of the Bahia Palace to the labyrinthine alleys of the souks; and stayed in one of the city’s best-kept luxury hideaways. If you didn’t know where to look, Le Farnatchi would almost be impossible to find. Hidden in a quiet alleyway and just a short walk away from the medina, Le Farnatchi is a restful haven amidst the joyful chaos of Marrakech.
This stylish Riad has ten generously sized suites designed with a careful balance of European luxury and Moroccan flair. The architecture is breath-taking to say the least, and every room boasts handmade beds, Egyptian cotton sheets, and all the colourful touches that make it feel like a home. Outside of your suite, the hotel has plenty of beautiful public areas to explore. It has two stunning dining rooms, a beautiful courtyard pool, and a roof garden complete with sun loungers. It is the perfect place to have a drink, watch the sunset, and maybe capture some golden hour magic too.
We recommend booking a treatment at the Farnatchi Spa, which features luxe marble hammam interiors. Here, you can gawk at the mouldings on the incredible vaulted ceilings, or better yet, indulge in a pampering session that will wash your troubles away.
For dinner, we ventured next door to the Le Trou Au Mur Restaurant, which serves up traditional Moroccan cuisine in true contemporary style. Art-deco meets local craftsmanship inside the restaurant, but the piece de resistance has to be the rooftop dining area. Atmospheric and undeniably romantic, there’s no better place in the city for a candlelit dinner than Le Trou au Mur. The restaurant has its own clay ‘mechoi’ or furnace, where our classic ‘Tangia’ was cooked. The Tangia has been described as a quintesential Marrakchia dish. Paired with a nice medium-bodied glass of red wine, and you’d be hard done to find a more delicious meal in this colourful city.
The luxury travel market is increasingly focused on tailor-made experiences rather than just the fact if you pay more, you can hope for a more enhanced experience. Hence, it is no surprise the luxury villa market has been booming in southern Europe in recent years, as travellers look for more space and a home-from-home escape. We visited The LUX MARE villas recently in a prime location in the city of Lagos in southern Portugal with jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean.
When their Norwegian owners, Egil & Birgitte Greve were looking to build their 2 state-of-the-art villas that embraced the minimalist Nordic design philosophy with the warmth of the Portuguese lifestyle, they went to the most famous local architect in town, Mário Martins. His exploration of shapes and the use of natural light has led to countless masterpieces created in The Algarve, but The LUX MARE Villas (Casa L and Casa M) is arguably his best work so far. The harmonious balance of green and blue is a soothing experience from the well-landscaped gardens of Casa M to their showpiece 22.5 metres heated infinity pool that kisses the Algarvan skyline.
During our visit, we stayed at Casa M which can host up to 12 guests with two king-sized rooms and four twin rooms. There are six bathrooms and one separate toilet, so there should never be any need for queuing. Almost all the rooms have floor-to-ceiling glass and looking onto the pool and garden area. They offer complimentary Molton Brown toiletries and luxury bathrobe and slippers. Apart from picking a local architect and using local wood and other materials to construct the villas, the owners have sought to use local designers where possible from the cutlery and crockery that are from Vista Alegre and all branded linens are also from Portugal. In the basement area, is a high-tech cinema room with a reclinable sofa, a pool table and selected Technogym equipment. And if that isn’t enough, guests have access to the AXN Gym situated within the renowned 5- star Cascade Wellness & Lifestyle Resort nearby.
The kitchen is decked out with high-end Gaggenau home appliances including a coffee machine that wouldn’t look out-of-place in a posh coffee house. Of course, you can cook yourself with numerous well-stocked supermarkets nearby and a fish market in town that is the envy of the region or you can treat yourself to a private chef who works regularly with the villa, The Chef Affairs who can prepare dishes like local favourites such as grilled giant king prawns and beef fillet tournedos with mushrooms and Porto wine sauce. There is also a whole range of options in town from Japanese ramen bars to Tasca Jota which champions local Portuguese ingredients from the region, with some of the team having trained with the likes of Gordon Ramsay in London.
If you are wondering what activities you might be able to partake in, they have an in-house concierge service that can cater to all your needs from yoga on the pool terrace to a sunset massage gazing into the Atlantic Ocean. For the more adventurous, there are hot-air balloon rides, go-karting, horse riding or kayaking that can be arranged. You can hire a sunseeker yacht to admire the stunning coastline or to go fishing. And you are also only minutes away from the world-famous Ponta da Piedade, stunning rock formations that give The Twelve Apostles a run for their money. The Algarvan wine scene has been picking up in recent years and about a half an hour drive away is the popular, Quinta dos Vales winery with some very accessible wines to taste as well as stunning art installations to admire. You can even buy your plot of land to grow your grapes and bottle your wine.
Next time, you are visiting Europe and looking for some Iberian sunshine, make sure you check out The LUX MARE villas. https://luxemare.pt
A spa seekers paradise, romantic hideaway, and wedding venue of dreams, Barnsley House is set to make waves as the premier wedding venue of the Cotswolds. Bottle of bubbly in hand, Debby Donnelly-Addison checks out this opulent hidden gem.
The sleet pelted down on the window as I slid deeper down into the bubbles, watching the carefully curated lawns of the walled garden turn from spruce green to frosted white. All my worries slipped away as I sipped my champage and laid back in the huge stone bathtub of the Secret Garden suite at Barnsley House, watching a robin bounce across the loungers on the patio outside. The perfect ending to the perfect weekend, I could understand why this is arguably the most romantic retreat in the Cotswolds.
Featuring an abundance of splendorous rooms and suites, each boasting sumptuous, butter soft beds and enchanting views of the meadows beyond, Barnsley House is nothing short of a dream. The accommodations are spread around the main house, some are tucked away down leafy passageways through the magnificent gardens, and there’s also Home Farm Cottage, which sleeps an extra six people. Generous in size and equipped with seriously Insta-worthy bathrooms, you will never want to leave.
Open to the public as a hotel and available for private hire for weddings, the ebullient and considerate staff at Barnsley House are conscious of respecting each of their clientele in equal measure. “We don’t want the hotel to become a wedding factory, we have our regulars and our locals and we want everyone to be able to enjoy our venue” Emma, the wedding coordinator informed me. It doesn’t matter if you’re spending £400 or £40,000, you will receive the same warm hospitality regardless.
It’s easy to see why Barnsley House is so popular for weddings. The enchanting gardens created by Rosemary Verey are packed with wonderous nooks and crannies, perfect for capturing many magical photos of your big day. The ornate lawns, immaculate terraces and knot gardens provide an idyllic backdrop at any time of year. Weather permitting, you can even get married outdoors on the lawn. There is no traffic noise here, so you’ll be reciting your vows over nothing but birdsong and the odd rustling of leaves a rabbit hops through the hedges.
After the whoops and cheers of your loved ones as you make things official, you can hold a reception for up to 70 people in the hotel’s Potager Restaurant, or there’s the meadow marquee for a larger affair. You can drink and dance the night away under the famous Cotswolds sunset before retreating to your room for a blissful night’s sleep.
Of course, you don’t have to be getting married to stay here. Barnsley House is perfect for a romantic retreat, weekend with friends or family, or a solo stay in this wonderous part of the world. Whilst the Cotswolds has a lot to offer, you simply cannot stay here without experiencing dinner at the Potager Restaurant. Set in an elegant dining room overlooking the gardens and led by head chef Francesco Volgo, the food here has a heavy local influence with a European edge and flourish of Italian flair.
Much of the fresh produce, herbs and salads are grown in the gardens here and picked fresh on the day of serving (even the vegetable gardens here are beautifully structured). Regardless of meal type or time of day, the service is friendly, efficient and knowledgeable. For my evening meal I had the fluffiest cheese souffle imaginable, which proved to be quite the hit in the dining room (most of our group ordered and devoured it), followed by a perfectly seared steak and golden chunky chips. The bread, nutty and light, had been freshly baked that day and was a welcome change from the usual dry offerings you experience in most hotels. For dessert, I had a melting chocolate pudding topped with honeycomb and a salted caramel ice cream that was to die for. The restaurant staff are attentive, yet not imposing, ensuring that drinks were topped up, plates were stealthily cleared away, and course were dishes up promptly and without fuss. No awkward waiting around or talking over a messy table. the stellar service meant we could enjoy our food and company without issue.
After dinner, we followed a lantern lit pathway through the gardens to the private cinema. Yes, Barnsley House has it’s own private cinema across from the main house. Seating 30 and equipped with a fabulously retro popcorn machine, the cinema boasts cosy pink sofas and fluffy blankets, so you can snuggle up and enjoy a movie with your loved ones. The scent of popcorn, comfortable surroundings and sense of exclusivity makes this a pretty special experience.
If you fancy something a little special before bedtime (or any time of day, for that matter) then a visit to the spa is a must. With a heated outdoor pool (no “gasp” moments as you step into cold water), a herbivarium containing a sauna and steam room, and 5 individual treatment rooms for massage, facials, and all manner of gorgeousness,
you cannot help but fall into a state of deep relaxation here. I was fortunate enough to indulge in a dip in the pool just as the sun started to set. With the heady scent of crackling wood fires in the air and the cleansing steam of the pool jets as the sky started to turn lavender, the experience was one of utter bliss. I bundled myself up in one of the spa’s super fluffy robes and relaxed in the sumptuous lounge overlooking the fields beyond whilst enjoying a glass of water infused with fresh herbs from the garden. As with the main house, it’s the small, considerate details that make this experience so special. The spa and rooms are furnished with fresh fruit and water. There are newspapers and board games should you wish to unplug from social media for the weekend. You feel cared for, cocooned. Barnsley House swaddles you up and leaves you to rest and relax, a world away from noisy roads, social media, and the plethora of distractions in day to day life.
Come bedtime, whilst your pillowy bed will no doubt be calling your name, you must have a dip in your beautifully appointed bathroom. With some rooms featuring twin tubs, roll top baths and flat screen televisions, the bathrooms are equipped with mood lighting akin to candlelight. Despite the winter chill outside, I filled my tub with steaming water infused with some of the complimentary bath salts, flung the windows open, and enjoyed the evening song as a blackbird took centre stage in the tree outside my room. Feeling more relaxed than I can ever remember, I floated over to my four poster bed and fell into a slumber so deep that I slept through my alarm. I do advise that you take up their kind offer of a wake up call, you will be so relaxed and deep in sleep that you will no doubt need it. Collecting the complimentary newspaper from outside of my room, I enjoyed a cup of Tea Pigs breakfast tea on the window seat overlooking the garden before heading down to breakfast.
As with dinner, breakfast is a quality affair. With a decadent selection of continental offerings, the kitchen will also whip up a hot breakfast should you feel like something a little more hearty. I had a creamy eggs benedict made with local eggs and more of their beautiful fresh bread. With free flowing coffee and views towards the wedding ceremony lawn, breakfast here is a relaxed, friendly affair. As always, the ingredients are locally sourced, and it shows. The quality of produce and care in which it has been prepared is evident, making this a meal to be celebrated rather than a quick bite at the start of the day. If you cannot contemplate climbing out of your cosy bed (and who can blame you), you can enjoy a continental breakfast in the comfort of your room. You’re the focus here, and if you’d rather enjoy a flaky croissant and hot coffee in bed, the staff here will make it happen. Nothing is too much.
The beauty of Barnsley House is, despite it’s grand exterior and decadent furnishings, it still feels like a home from home. On returning from the cinema, I instinctively went to remove my shoes when stepping inside (there is no requirement to do this, I just felt so at ease). The staff treat you like family, professional, yet warm. It’s a particularly special, borderline magical combination that is rare and only usually found in boutique locations such as this. If this is how I am treated as a weekend guest, I am both excited and thrilled for anyone who choses Barnsley House as their wedding venue. An absolute dream and living up to their reputation as a “Pride of Britain Hotel”, Barnsley House has to be one of the most romantic, decadent hotels the UK has to offer.
I left Barnsley House relaxed, renewed, and most certainly planning to visit again in the near future. If you’re looking for quality, care, and next level hospitality in an area of outstanding beauty, a visit to Barnsley House is a must.
Bookings for Barnsley House can be made online directly at https://www.prideofbritainhotels.com/hotels/barnsley-house/ I couldn’t possibly recommend one particular room or suite as they are all exceptional, but the Secret Garden Suite is a must for anyone wanting a seriously luxurious romantic break.
Weddings at Barnsley House start at around £25,000 Off Peak one night midweek based on 70 guests. This includes accommodation, food, wine, venue hire. Peak two night weekend based on 70 guests cost around £43,000, including accommodation, food, wine, venue hire. Contact Emma for more details at Emma.sharp@barnsleyhouse.com.
Hotel Senato – Slick, sophisticated and incredibly sexy. I have been to Italy every year for the past 6 years – usually to escape the fast pace city life, however this time round I decided I was going to try Milan! a weekend of shopping, espresso martinis and art galleries – that is what my soul needed!
Finding the perfect hotel that partnered my long weekend perfectly wasn’t an easy task. I wanted something small, personal, boutique and stylish. And hey presto! like a gift from god – Hotel Senato appeared.
The hustle and bustle of Milan is vibrant. Elegant women dressed head to toe in Prada are the only people left on earth who can still make smoking look sexy. The streets are filled with well dressed Italian fashionistas making those incredibly important phone calls with one hand, clutching their iced coffees in another. So it is incredibly refreshing when you push those doors open and enter the cool world of Hotel Senato.
A hotel so well designed – everything down to the perfect tiled floor you walk on is thought so well through. They say its all in the detail – Interiors so blissfully put together even the soft furnishings marry the wonderful pieces of furniture so well – it is nothing but style. Everything you deserve and more.
The room does not let me down – crisp fresh sheets. Long French windows with a Juliette balcony that overlooks the courtyard downstairs. As I place my bags down, I take a seat and admire the room and as a cool wind blows through the room blowing the long white curtains in like a smooth slow dance – I have finally fallen in love with Milan.
The room has all the necessities – including extra pillows! which I always usually have to ask for! the room is cool, contemporary and the fine details run throughout including the bathroom!
Pier is our host for the evening – a true Italian gent. The creative director at Hotel Senato selected some beautiful to die for cocktails and appetisers. A menu so well thought about consisting of only fresh and local ingredients – every morsel that passed my mouth was like tasting heaven.
I have always been dubious about going to a city when I am constantly city hopping in the UK – however Milan served me something else – I understand why it is one of the worlds fashion capitals. However escaping those crazy city vibes is a must! and nothing screams hidden paradise like the Hotel Senato.
As an avid fan of art – I found the Hotel Senato to be an actual work of art. The walls the food the service – worth every single euro! And what pleases me more about the boutique experience – that it feels like home and that makes me smile because hotels can be so cold – not Hotel Senato! The cool, contemporary vibe sweeps you in with an absolute warm embrace.
One tip – try the cocktails! actually make that two tips! take your beautifully crafted cocktail up to the hidden rooftop garden! I can assure you, your breath will be taken away – if Instagram needed moments – that would be it.
Blakes Hotel London has launched a sizzling new collaboration with Kiki De Montparnasse, the luxury lingerie and accessories brand – and we are in lust! Behind Closed Doors, this partnership promises to redefine luxury and sensuality, offering guests an exquisite experience like no other.
As storms brew outside! why go out? when you can turn up the heat inside.
Established in 1978 – Blakes Hotel is regarded as the world’s first luxury boutique hotel – located in Kensington, the desirable location provides discretion and absolute privacy. It is often the go-to option for many of the rich and famous – proudly earning its title the ‘couture’ hotel.
Behind Closed Doors at Blakes Hotel London
The ‘Behind closed doors’ package which has been so carefully curated by the chicest Kiki de Montaparnasse – things are bound to get heated up in the room. The package consists of Kiki de Montaparnasse silk pyjamas a bespoke eye mask – also further luxury accessories to set temperatures soaring – you’ll ask what is that smell? just the divine lotus candle which is burning which doubles up into a sensual sexy massage oil – and if he or she has been a bad kitty a little lesson with a leather hand-braided whip should spice it up! Still not satisfied? perhaps we can indulge you with some personalised engraved handcuffs? still wanting more? – then a double-sided tickler, should do the trick.
We can assure all you couples out there – you are in for the night of your life. You are bound to work up an appetite? then Blakes also has that covered dinner and breakfast are served in a room with unlimited room service – and expect oysters! Thirsty? That is completely understandable! Laurent Perrier has your back there darling. Worth every single drop of massage oil – will you let yourself go wild? – the behind closed doors package is currently available now.
When you enter Blakes’s superbly designed suite you are greeted by rich opulence at its finest – everything is perfectly thought of. The eye is in the finer detail. Every sheet feels divine each pillow is perfect to touch.
Enchantment Awaits
We have seen many a hotel – stayed in the most luxurious surroundings – but never has a hotel made us feel like we don’t ever want to leave. Dark and completely handsome – if The Blakes Hotel was a man – he would be the one of your dreams. Sophistically charming dashingly elegant. The staff open doors, friendly and beautifully presentable.
Blakes is incredibly stylish – each corner you turn something charmingly quirky grabs your attention. Luxury personified – it is easy to see why the rich and famous adore this place. Service is so impeccable – nothing has been thought about and this is down to even the smallest of things like the toiletries in the bathroom – everything will leave your senses invigorated.
Overall a truly magical experience which will never be forgotten a hotel so deliciously exquisite you will be back for more.
Ideal for a Valentine’s getaway or for a romantic sojurn anytime of the year, feel the love with our round up of the world’s most luxurious hotels tailored for love.
Round Hill Hotel & Villas, Jamaica
Picture 100 acres of private lush grounds that surround the dazzling waters of Montego Bay. The Round Hill Hotel & Villas is the ideal destination for a sunshine-filled Caribbean break. Deemed as ‘the’ place to visit by the famous and glamorous in the 1950’s, this exclusive and luxrious resort ticks all the style boxes thanks to its 36 oceanfront guestrooms in the Ralph Lauren-designed Pineapple House and its 27 stunning villas.
Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada
With a chic blend of traditional Caribbean and contemporary style, the Spice Island Beach Resort in Grenada is Grenadian luxury personified. Guests can dine in the open-air gourmet restaurant where they can savour authentic local specialties in a fine dining atmosphere, while enjoying the very best of Grenada’s calypso, reggae and steel bands. It is perfectly positioned on the soft white sands of Grand Anse, Grenada’s most beautiful beach. This luxurious hotel offers superb, spacious accommodation, great spa facilities and excellent service.
Grand Hotel Continental, Tuscany
The only 5-star luxury hotel in the heart of Siena in Tuscany, the Grand Hotel Continental is adorned with original frescoes and rich decorations that can be found throughout the property. The Panoramic Suite is a realm of luxury, privacy and Italian elegance with unrivalled 360° view over Siena and the surrounding valleys. Absolutely bellisimo! Guests can enjoy a delicious meal in the Sapor di Vino restaurant teamed with a carefully-selected bottle of wine.
Jardin des Douars, Essaouira, Morocco
Taking inspiration from the rammed earth Kasbahs of the High Atlas, the Jardin des Douars which is located close to Essaouira sits upon a ridge-top that overlooks the Ksob river. Whilst the look is undoubtedly rustic-chic, there is still a sense of luxury thanks to the spa and the two heated pools.
The hotel looks like a fusion of a genteel country manor fused with a grand castle, lavishly decorated with glowing candles and soft deep pile rugs.
This is ideal for those who are looking for a real retreat and hanker after the peace and tranquillity of the surrounding olive trees and terracotta hills
Grand Hotel Europe, St Petersburg
With a prime location at the cultural heart of St Petersburg, The Grand Hotel Europe is one the city’s most celebrated landmarks. It is opulently decorated with gilded stucco ceilings, breath-taking stained glass, resplendent marble and dazzling chandeliers. The hotel has ten luxurious suites each of which has an individual design. Guests can dine at AZIA offers a daily Emotions Tasting Menu, which combines textures, perfumes, flavours, temperatures and colours to create a unique dining experience.
Hotel President Wilson, Geneva
Situated on the shores of Leman lake and just a few steps from the most beautiful parks and boutiques of the renowned Rue du Rhône, Hotel President Wilson is one of the most contemporary hotels in Geneva, facing the magnificent panorama of the Mont-Blanc.
With large bay-windows offering a panoramic view over Lake Leman, the hotel pool or Geneva city, all 204 Rooms and 22 Suites of the luxury hotel combine comfort and elegance. However, the acclaimed Royal Penthouse Suite is truly a sight to behold thanks to its terrace with panoramic view over the lake and the Mont-Blanc, the jacuzzi, spa, Steinway grand piano, the 103-inch Bang & Olufsen and beautiful furnishings. This truly unique suite stands for pure luxury with maximum security, from bulletproof windows, emergency alarm buttons and reinforced safe to a private lift to take guests directly to their majestic living quarters.
Live an exclusive experience at Spa La Mer and its outdoor pool overlooking the lake and succumb to the delicacy of the Michelin starred cuisine from famous Chef Michel Roth.
St. Regis Vommuli Resort, Maldives
Tucked away, on an exclusive private island reachable by seaplane is the St Regis – one of the most luxurious resort in the Maldives. Combining contemporary design and local craftsmanship, with a profound appreciation for the ecological environment, there is no other destination quite like this exquisite beach resort on Vommuli Island.
Private terraces that lead to pristine beaches and infinity pools with the Indian Ocean as a tranquil backdrop inspire moments of relaxation. The accommodation highlight has to be the Overwater St. Regis Suite – an elegant overwater retreat with stunning views of the Maldives lagoon, overwater hammocks and a romantic gazebo to take in the beauty of the house reef below
Guests can savour epicurean delights from all over the world in any of the six restaurants and bars—each inspired by authentic Italian, Middle Eastern and Asian flavours served in buffet, ala carte or tapas style. They can then restore their well-being with custom-made treatments at the over-water Iridium Spa.
The Palm, Dubai
Located in the heart of the Crescent, The Palm is part luxury hotel, part underwater-themed resort thanks to its two pools, waterpark and small, but perfectly formed man-made beach. Despite sticking rigidly to the underwater theme, guests can reside in opulent suites and can enjoy fine-dining cuisine at one of the 23 restaurants, bars and lounges – Ossiano and Nobu are recommended.
There are five different suites available, but the most striking is the Royal Bridge Suite which includes three lavishly-decorated bedrooms, an exquisitely designed lounge, with decor reflecting the opulence and stature of the suite and is perfect for entertaining and includes its own private library, games and media centre, majlis and massage room.
Hotel Arlberg, Lech
What could be more romantic than a snow-filled break with the one you love? Experience rustic charm at the Hotel Arlberg in the beautiful alpine town of Lech in Austria. The rooms are cosy and are elegantly decorated in traditional Austrian style. From the stunning spa where you can enjoy his and hers treatments to the fabulous wine tasting experience, your inner romantic can’t fail to escape.
Love is in the air! Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and there’s nothing we love more than an excuse for a weekend or week away. Try the following short breaks to celebrate love, on Valentine’s Day or any day of the year.
Venice
Twenty minutes from Venice’s magical St Mark’s Square, The Dedica Anthology’s Grand Hotel dei Dogi combines an authentic sense of nobility from its 16th-century origins with a modern attitude to life and thoughtful, highly personalised service. Although the hotel is located within the magical and romantic canals of Venice and just a short distance from the tourist beats, guests can get lost in one of the city’s largest private gardens and experience the true romance of Venice.
Grand Hotel dei Dogi has produced a Romantic Secret Map for Valentine’s Day – a handy insider guide to their favourite romantic spots in the city. With intimate squares, flower-filled parks and breath-taking views to discover, you cannot fail to feel the love.
Istanbul
Once known as Constantinople or City of the World’s Desire, Istanbul blends two continents. With a history as poetic as that, romance can be found in every corner of the Old City.
An artisanal gem, the five-star AJWA Hotel Sultanahmet blends the finest elements of Seljuk and Ottoman architecture with modern luxurious hospitality, creating the perfect backdrop for the ultimate romantic getaway. The hotel’s location in the fabled Old City of Istanbul, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so couples can explore the major mosques, museums and bazaars, which are only a short distance away, before returning to the spectacular hotel. Couples can book in for a private treatment at the exquisite hammam or take the views from the rooftop whilst enjoying an intimate candle lit dinner.
Maldives
A myriad of blue and picturesque islands, the Maldives is romance personified, a tranquil escape with uninterrupted ocean and pristine turquoise lagoon views.
For Valentine’s Day, the spa at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo is offering a special Valentine’s Day package that includes a 30-minute coconut and sea salt exfoliation, 60-minute heavenly signature body massage and a soaking bath tube experience with a bottle of wine. For couples staying at the resort during Valentine’s Day, they have the choice of two incredible food and drink offerings. The Valentine’s Kaiseki Dinner is a five-course dinner at The Pearl, the resort’s elegant speciality Japanese restaurant.
Alternatively, guests can enjoy the Starlight Escape Dinner on Sunset Beach, which includes a five-course dinner and one bottle of champagne. Guests can also add a floating breakfast in the morning with two glasses of champagne to this package for the ultimate Valentine’s Day experience.
Northern Ireland
The Slieve Donard Resort & Spa, one of Hastings Hotels’ seven properties in Northern Ireland, is situated on the idyllic seashores of the Irish sea on Newcastle Bay. The hotel looks out to the Mountains of Mourne with spectacular views across the Royal County Down Golf Course. Set in six acres of beautifully kept private grounds, the property is famous for its expansive and luxurious spa. Guests can escape to a cocoon of calm and melt away their stresses with over two floors of tranquility, including a magnificent 20 metre swimming pool and Vitality Pool, amethyst steam room and high-tech fitness studio.
This Valentine’s, spend a romantic dinner overlooking the Mourne Mountains, complete with dinner, a glass of prosecco and spa access during your stay. Plus of course a Hastings rubber duck created especially for Valentine’s Day for those bubble baths for two.
Vietnam
Salinda Resort is located on the serene island of Phu Quoc, where the breathtaking location, authentic Vietnamese touches and impeccable service are ideal for a Valentine’s Day break. With three spoiling restaurants to choose from, an enchanting Thai Spa, and the incredible famous ‘purple sunsets’, Salinda Resort offers a charming tranquil island retreat. The hotel boasts a fantastic selection of exceptionally designed venues to inspire love. .
Wow your loved one with a stunning, serene and beautifully set up dinner, featuring a glorious sunset as your backdrop or a dinner nestled in lush greeneries of the mango garden. Experience romance with a 3-course gourmet meal as your private waiter provides attentive and solicitous service for you to celebrate love. Alternatively, working alongside your Valentine, Chef Long will walk you through a culinary celebration of your favourite Vietnamese dishes. The chefs will demonstrate how to make the quintessential Vietnamese meal step by step, and then you can dine on your creations for lunch with complimentary refreshments and chef’s recipes to take home.
Tuscany
What could be more beautiful than gazing at the stars with your loved one? Tuscany Now & More, the exclusive villa rental specialists in Tuscany and beyond, is delighted to announce its collection of properties that boast awe-inspiring panoramas for Valentine’s Day, creating the perfect locations for stargazing and admiring the sun set to form a spectacular night sky. Guests can experience stargazing with an expert astronomer at a traditional Tuscan farmhouse, stay in a villa on its very own secluded hilltop, or sit on their terrace on the edge of a medieval village and gaze at the starlit night sky above.
Located in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, Colli Fiorentini is a spectacular stone farmhouse that is surrounded by sweeping hills, blanketed with vineyards and olive groves. Due to the villa’s remote location, the constellations are incredibly visible from the garden, allowing guests to experience a truly magical and unique Tuscan experience.
Lisbon
Tivoli Carvoeiro invites you to celebrate love with a customised programme designed for St. Valentine’s, being the perfect excuse for a romantic weekend, in one of the most elegant resorts in the Algarve. With a contemporary and warm design, inspired by the tones of the sea, and tucked onto a cliff-hugging coast of picturesque fishing villages, Tivoli Carvoeiro is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. Some highlights of the programme include dinner for two, with the sound of the Atlantic waves and candlelight, a walking tour of the Seven Hanging Valleys with a specialized guide to help couples unveil the secrets of the landscape, fauna, flora and local culture. The Valentine’s Day program includes an offer of 20% for the couple treatments at the Tivoli Spa. The romantic treatment for two combines a facial with a massage and ends with a bath of rose petals, strawberries with chocolate and sparkling wine.
There is a strong belief that the Trojans were originally Greek, including some of the scholars who worked at https://madeinturkeytours.com/troy/ site.
Whether you love to ski, hike, bake or even try a spot of mountain top yoga, Lech in Austria is the place to be in 2020. In winter, it’s a ski bunny’s paradise and receives up to twice as much snow as some of its alpine counterparts. Lech is expecting snow in the next few days, so if you are looking for a great ski destination – head to this beautiful city for some snow-filled fun.
Travelling to Lech is a breeze. You can either fly into Innsbruck or Zurich – both of which make for a scenic drive or why not get the train? Langen am Arlberg is just 15 km away from the centre of Lech. There is also a special ski coach that you can take in winter which takes you directly from Zurich to the hotel.
We stayed in the beautiful and charming Hotel Arlberg which is conveniently situated in the heart of this picturesque town. This five-star ski and wellness boutique hotel is a luxury alpine retreat brimming in character and is run by a friendly and professional family team who have previously hosted the likes of Princess Diana.
The décor is luxurious yet eclectic and has subtle nods to its mountain surroundings. Think rustic cool where you will find both objet d’art and stylish accessories sitting side-by-side. The rooms are huge and are elegantly furnished.
We loved spending time in the hotels elegant spa where you can enjoy relaxing massages, rejuvenating facials and more. We highly recommend the Susanne Kaufman facial which will bring your winter weary skin back to life in the space of just one hour.
Wellness is certainly a huge theme in Lech. The town and its inhabitants pride themselves on relaxation and rejuvenation. Locals and tourists are encouraged to take part in holistic activities such as barefoot hiking, sound walking and more.
There is so much to do in Lech and it really is a great destination for skiing. However, if you would prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground (as opposed to a pair of skis) then Lech won’t disappoint. You can try your hand at some mountain top yoga in the spring, pilates or even a cookery class at the hotel where you can make some delicious local delicacies under the watchful eye of the hotels acclaimed pastry chef.
Wine lovers simply must try the hotel’s wine tasting experience where co-owner Patrick will take you through a superb selection of wines that are certain to impress. If you didn’t love Austrian wine before you arrive in Lech, you will certainly leave Austria with a new passion for the region’s wines.
If you are looking to try a variety of different activities, we recommend that you acquire a ‘My Lech’ card which will give you access to lots of fun things to do in the warmer months in Lech.
From admiring the views from a cable car to taking an e-bike tour where you can navigate your way down the mountain. You can even take a herb hiking tour where you can discover the best that nature has to offer in this pretty town.
Lech is definitely one of the prettiest towns in Austria, so make sure that you add this to your places to stay in 2020 and beyond bucket list.
Biting into a sweet, gooey date as I sipped my Turkish tea was the perfect welcome to the Ajwa Sultanahmet Hotel Istanbul Turkey. It even overtook (just slightly, because of my stomach’s rumbling) the fancy car service that transported me from the airport to the hotel.
Experience Luxury and Elegance
The gorgeous Ajwa Sultanahmet Istanbul is exactly that – gorgeous. The stunning architecture is what catches your eye as soon as it is in sight – regardless of the time of the day as either the sun is hitting the walls, making the gold shine strong and the white stone appear to have flecks of pink and blue; or the entire hotel is a glowing building, standing out completely on the corner of the street. The hotel is what I’d imagine a Turkish princess’s first ‘home away from home’ to be. A beautiful grand entrance, stunning and ornate decor – featuring only the best artists’ handiwork – and a private hammam to indulge in a cleansing scrub.
The interiors of the hotel are even more decorative, with the furniture being a mixture of locally-made designs, as well as some from Damascus. The chairs and cabinets feature beautiful Mother of Pearl details and each floor showcases Azerbaijani (or Azeri) artwork on the walls. If you take a liking to this kind of design, be sure to visit the nearby shops which double as art galleries – they sell different pieces of furniture, as well as Persian rugs.
Biting into a sweet, gooey date as I sipped my Turkish tea was the perfect welcome to the Ajwa Sultanahmet Hotel Istanbul Turkey. It even overtook (just slightly, because of my stomach’s rumbling) the fancy car service that transported me from the airport to the hotel.
Experience Luxury and Elegance
The gorgeous Ajwa Sultanahmet Istanbul is exactly that – gorgeous. The stunning architecture is what catches your eye as soon as it is in sight – regardless of the time of the day as either the sun is hitting the walls, making the gold shine strong and the white stone appear to have flecks of pink and blue; or the entire hotel is a glowing building, standing out completely on the corner of the street. The hotel is what I’d imagine a Turkish princess’s first ‘home away from home’ to be. A beautiful grand entrance, stunning and ornate decor – featuring only the best artists’ handiwork – and a private hammam to indulge in a cleansing scrub.
The interiors of the hotel are even more decorative, with the furniture being a mixture of locally-made designs, as well as some from Damascus. The chairs and cabinets feature beautiful Mother of Pearl details and each floor showcases Azerbaijani (or Azeri) artwork on the walls. If you take a liking to this kind of design, be sure to visit the nearby shops which double as art galleries – they sell different pieces of furniture, as well as Persian rugs.
Indulge in Opulence
This stunning artwork continues within the Ajwa hotel rooms; my bathroom door is open as I walk in so I am immediately greeted by beautiful blue patterned tiles and rose gold finishing. Mother of Pearl is present in the furniture and that’s probably all I focus on as, afterwards, my attention was very much so diverted to the large bed that was calling my name. There are 48 Deluxe Rooms (of which I was lucky to secure one) but if you’re looking for something slightly more swish, the hotel offers a Presidential Suite and even separate guesthouses if you’re travelling in a group.
Breakfast at Ajwa is an impressive display. You can opt for the buffet which offers an array of treats: eggs, courgette and spinach fritters, Turkish sausages; pides; labneh – the works. Alternatively, you can order a la carte, including the traditional Turkish breakfast spread…which pretty much includes every item on the buffet and more. I’d definitely recommend a sunrise breakfast as the panoramic view from the restaurant is so pretty – you can see a mixture of the Old City and the Marmara Sea.
Discover the Rich History and Culinary Delights of Istanbul
Lunch and dinner are served on the same top floor, in the Zeferan restaurant and the Azerbaijani chef cooks up a feast every mealtime. Whether plates full of grilled meats, salads and ‘shakh plov’ (a local rice dish) or Sultan’s stew (lamb with aubergine purée) and yoghurt soup; one thing is for certain – I did not go hungry here.
With the Old City right on your doorstep, you’re minutes away from impressive and historical sights such as the Blue Mosque, the Haiga Sophia and Topkapi Palace. The hotel concierge was only too happy to fix me up with a tour guide – I have been to Istanbul before but you learn so much more about the cultural spots with someone who knows all about them. For example, my guide told me that there are over 21,647 tiles making up the Blue Mosque (so named because of the dark blue titles on the interior design and, over time, the name changed from Dark Blue Tiled Mosque to Blue Mosque). Another interesting fact I was told, was that it took 10,000 people to build the Haiga Sophia over five years – and it took 13,000 kg of gold in expenses. My jaw definitely dropped at this point.
Immerse Yourself in Luxury and Tradition
A trip to the famous Grand Bazaar was a hectic but fascinating experience, as I loaded up with spices, ceramics and jewellery. It’s easy to get lost inside – and it’s no wonder as the Grand Bazaar is home to five mosques, two fountains, 67 roads, 40 doors and even a school.
After a busy day of walking the streets of Istanbul, nothing is more appealing than a trip to the hammam I mentioned earlier. The Afiya Spa at the hotel is something everyone should definitely experience. I had received the traditional Turkish treatment before but the hammam room at Ajwa was by far one of the most beautiful I’d seen and well worth a visit. The Turkish Bath treatment takes place in the spa and after a menthol steam room session, I enjoyed a thorough scrubbing. It wasn’t as harsh as I’ve had this treatment before which is fantastic, as you can really relax as you’re getting exfoliated and becoming the cleanest you’ve ever been. Seriously – the cleanest I’ve been in my life.
A magical stay that I would definitely recommend for anyone wanting a boutique hotel experience while being footsteps from the majority of Istanbul’s best gems.
Indulge in Opulence
This stunning artwork continues within the Ajwa hotel rooms; my bathroom door is open as I walk in so I am immediately greeted by beautiful blue patterned tiles and rose gold finishing. Mother of Pearl is present in the furniture and that’s probably all I focus on as, afterwards, my attention was very much so diverted to the large bed that was calling my name. There are 48 Deluxe Rooms (of which I was lucky to secure one) but if you’re looking for something slightly more swish, the hotel offers a Presidential Suite and even separate guesthouses if you’re travelling in a group.
Breakfast at Ajwa is an impressive display. You can opt for the buffet which offers an array of treats: eggs, courgette and spinach fritters, Turkish sausages; pides; labneh – the works. Alternatively, you can order a la carte, including the traditional Turkish breakfast spread. Which pretty much includes every item on the buffet and more. I’d recommend a sunrise breakfast as the panoramic view from the restaurant is so pretty – you can see a mixture of the Old City and the Marmara Sea.
Discover the Rich History and Culinary Delights
Lunch and dinner are served on the same top floor, in the Zeferan restaurant and the Azerbaijani chef cooks up a feast every mealtime. Whether plates full of grilled meats, salads and ‘shakh plov’ (a local rice dish) or Sultan’s stew (lamb with aubergine purée) and yoghurt soup; one thing is for certain – I did not go hungry here.
With the Old City right on your doorstep, you’re minutes away from impressive and historical sights such as the Blue Mosque, the Haiga Sophia and Topkapi Palace. The hotel concierge was only too happy to fix me up with a tour guide – I have been to Istanbul before but you learn so much more about the cultural spots with someone who knows all about them. For example, my guide told me that there are over 21,647 tiles making up the Blue Mosque (so named because of the dark blue titles on the interior design and, over time, the name changed from Dark Blue Tiled Mosque to Blue Mosque). Another interesting fact I was told, was that it took 10,000 people to build the Haiga Sophia over five years – and it took 13,000 kg of gold in expenses. My jaw definitely dropped at this point.
Immerse Yourself in Luxury and Tradition
A trip to the famous Grand Bazaar was a hectic but fascinating experience, as I loaded up with spices, ceramics and jewellery. It’s easy to get lost inside – and it’s no wonder as the Grand Bazaar is home to five mosques, two fountains, 67 roads, 40 doors and even a school.
After a busy day of walking the streets of Istanbul, nothing is more appealing than a trip to the hammam I mentioned earlier. The Afiya Spa at the hotel is something everyone should experience. I had received the traditional Turkish treatment before but the hammam room at Ajwa was by far one of the most beautiful I’d seen and well worth a visit. The Turkish Bath treatment takes place in the spa and after a menthol steam room session, I enjoyed a thorough scrubbing. It wasn’t as harsh as I’ve had this treatment before which is fantastic, as you can relax as you’re getting exfoliated and becoming the cleanest you’ve ever been. Seriously – the cleanest I’ve been in my life.
A magical stay that I would recommend for anyone wanting a boutique hotel experience while being footsteps from the majority of Istanbul’s best gems.
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If there is one image on Instagram that has defined the influence of this social media site on travel habits, it is the iconic image of overwater villas over crystal clear blue waters with exotic tropical fish in places like The Maldives. This is an aspirational experience and one on most people’s bucket list. The team at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has clearly understood this fact and it was no surprise they’ve built substantially more overwater villas in their recent $20 million renovations.
When Team Coco stayed at the resort, we tested out both their cottage with garden view and their mesmerising water bungalows. There are positives with both types of accommodation. The former option is surprisingly pocket-friendly with a dreamy outdoor garden en-suite that celebrates your arrival to a tropical paradise. There is an alfresco rain shower which you can enjoy along to the sounds of native birds.
When we moved to the water bungalows, it felt like we were finally at The Maldives, everyone has been daydreaming about. You could be the worst photographer in the world and still come up with masterpieces here such is the picture postcard-perfect scenery. The warm Indian waters are just steps away from your balcony and schools of tropical fish are easy to spot.
If you are worried about dining options being stuck on a remote island, fear not. Firstly, they are on one of the largest islands in The Maldives and they provide 7 varied options to cater for all tastes and whether you are looking for something more casual or formal. Lovers of Asian cuisines are extremely well-catered for here with Thai, Indian and Chinese restaurants available.
There are culinary experiences not to be missed at this resort and the first one is their lagoon lunch. You are sat on an idyllic wooden bench with your legs submerged in the balmy lagoon waters with small, friendly reef sharks swimming in the distance, there are beautiful floral decorations on the table and an attentive server who brings you Champagne and 5 top-quality courses.
The other dining experience, which is utterly unmissable is a visit to their Sea Salt restaurant. They have a fresh seafood tank where you can pick the fresh fish or lobster you would like to sample. Their seared tuna and scallops starters are serious causes of hypersalivation whilst the superlative seafood platter is a seafood lover’s paradise.
With all this mention of food, you might wonder what sporting activities there might be on offer. Non-motorised water sports like kayaking, snorkelling are all complimentary but if you’ve never tried jet-skiing, then this would be the perfect opportunity. You can drive this powerful beast out into the open waters with supervision from their staff.
There are plenty of less adrenaline-inducing activities such as a sunset dolphin cruise and you won’t struggle to spot these majestic beasts as there will be dozens swimming around your boat. You can have a morning yoga class on the sandy beaches on the island or you can visit their Shine spa which is on a separate private island where you can enjoy ayurvedic treatments and soothing massages.
With prices starting at £315 per night, the Maldives dream is much more affordable than you think and something you should tick off the bucket list in 2020.
Nightly rates at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa (www.marriott.co.uk/hotels/travel/mlesi-sheraton-maldives-full-moon-resort-and-spa/; +960 664 2010) start from $400/£315 per night based on 2 people sharing a Deluxe Garden View King Room on a B&B basis.
