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What better way to escape the city than to hop into a fast car and go on a road trip? Or better yet, a doggy road trip. Because there is definitely nothing better than conquering country-roads with your four-legged best friend, TeamCocopup Charlie embarked on a doggy road trip to the Cotswolds for a weekend at the beautiful Bruern Cottages with Premier Cottages.

First thing’s first — wheels. We booked our ride with Getaround, which is Europe’s leading car share platform. Getaround has over 50,000 cars in six countries, and we booked our car quite literally a block away from our house. No need for any very bureaucratic rental offices either — because we unlocked our car using our smartphones. How convenient is that?

We set off. Driving past the M1 and across the beautiful landscapes of Oxfordshire and into the finally into the stunning Bruern Cottages. Bruern Cottages is part of Premier Cottage’s curated selection of dog-friendly properties. Premier Cottages have a collection of over 400 pet friendly holiday homes, where owners go the extra mile to welcome your pampered pooches.

From the outside looking in, Bruern Cottages looks like it’s been lifted from a John Constable painting. In this real life tableau, you will find everything from a wisteria covered driveway, a calming indoor pool, a cosy games room, and a lovely courtyard where you can play some fetch with your pup.

TeamCocopup Charlie and I stayed in the lovely Saratoga cottage, which is filled with all of the quintessential charms of a luxury English cottage — and then some. It is everything you could ask for in a luxury cottage and more, and takes the word ‘self-catering’ to another level. Inside, it is wonderfully cosy, perfect for two guests (and a pup), and even has its own private garden aching for a midsummer barbecue.

The Saratoga cottage is filled with plenty of delightful details: from white cotton damask curtains to a flurry of soft pinks, blues, and beige textures that create a classically luxurious palette. Upstairs, there is a blue and white faux bamboo four poster bed. Further down the room, you’ll find the small but lovely bathroom which has a raised bath, heated towel rail and shaving point too. Safe to say — we made ourselves home right away.

Unlike other self-catering cottages, (where you have to make the required trek to the local shop to get the essentials), Bruern Cottages provides you with everything you need to truly enjoy your stay. In your cottage, you are greeted with an absolutely delicious welcome basket filled with the very best local produce. This includes six cackle bean eggs, fresh milk, bacon and sausages from the nearby Paddock farm, Holmleigh dairy butter, freshly baked bread, Bensons apple juice, preserves, a chocolate cake, and a lovely bottle of Chateau Siaurac 2009 shipped directly fro a French chateau. Fancy some bubbles? You can also call ahead and request a bottle of vintage Monopole Champagne, which offers hints of citrus, apple, and subtle vanilla. Now this is luxury self-catering unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

While it may seem counter-intuitive, venture out of your cottage and explore Bruern Cottages’ surrounding gardens. We promise that it’s definitely worth your while. The award-winning gardens at Bruern Cottages will make you forego driving anywhere else — and instead spend hours enjoying an idyllic picnic or taking photos in the grounds. Stroll through the Stable Yard and indulge in a game of croquet in the perfectly manicured lawn, walk through the roses, lilies, euphorbias, and clematis in the walled gardens, or gawk at the wisteria that is romantically draped over the arched driveways.

If you’re looking to explore outside of Bruern Cottages, there’s plenty to see within driving distance. Our favourite pit stop was the Cotswold Wildlife Park, which is a family run wildlife park that’s 100% dog-friendly. TeamCocopup Charlie got to meet some camels, giraffes, and even a rogue peacock that wandered into the cafeteria.

Alternatively, there are plenty of stately homes and coastal walks within driving distance too. But with all of the luxurious indulgences at your fingertips in Bruern Cottages – why would you ever leave?

About Premier Cottages

Premier Cottages’ collection features almost 1,000 four and five-star self-catering cottages across the UK. Properties range from small, romantic boltholes to large family-friendly country estates. The collection includes pet-friendly accommodation and the widest range of accessible properties in the UK. Many properties have onsite facilities like swimming pools, gyms, spas, indoor games rooms and children’s play areas.

A week’s stay in Bruern Cottages’ Saratoga Cottage which sleeps two starts from £803 and a two night weekend break starts from £517. (www.premiercottages.co.uk, 01993 830415).

Tucked away in Franschhoek’s vine-covered foothills in South Africa’s Cape Winelands, five star La Residence embodies the kind of levels of luxury other high-end hotels can only hope for. Set across a 30-acre wine estate, you might recognise it from the BBC series ‘Amazing Hotels’ but consistently placed among the world’s best places to stay, and a personal favourite of Sir Elton John himself, ‘amazing’ is just the beginning – as our girl Beth discovers.

With its gabled Dutch homesteads, quaint avenues, quirky galleries and sprawling vineyards Franschhoek has its Huguenot heritage to thank for its peculiarly French feel. This is the South of France meets South Africa – a foodie hot-spot where world-renowned restaurants, fine wines and an upmarket artsy scene come together. A feast for the senses, the delights of the Franschhoek Valley are all somehow distilled into our guest experience at La Residence.

Just five minutes drive from the main street, a grand driveway transports you to a tranquil haven of manicured lawns surrounded by vineyards, orchards and flowers, where grazing Springbok, Antelope and miniature ponies add to the fanciful feel.

Drawing up in our dusty rental, we spot the sienna walls of what looks from the outside, like a grand Tuscan-style manor, against a movie-set mountain backdrop.

Greeted by a beaming host of staff, you enter into a world of decadence and intrigue. A black and white marble floor spans the length of The Grand Hall, chandeliers hanging from triple-height beams of the vaulted thatch. French antiques and a vintage writing desk hold chalices overflowing with the largest floral arrangements I’ve ever seen in a riot of crimson and purple.

Ahead, a wide veranda opens up to a palm-lined avenue, a water feature leading us down the lawn to a heated half-moon infinity pool that seems to stretch right into the vineyards and mountains beyond. Yellow and white striped loungers and beanbags make for a Soho House vibe, while the odd roaming peacock adds to the whimsical.

With glasses of delicate house-grown Rose shiraz pressed into our hands, we’re given a tour of the grounds – from a private wine cellar in which you can request a personal tasting, to the palatial gardens filled with roses and vineyards beyond. As well as the 11 suites in the main building, we’re also shown around the 5 vineyard suites with private pools, better suited to those with children as the main hotel is (blissfully) an adult-only zone.

It’s all so decadent, yet with an eclectic, almost french-inspired bohemian charm – owner and interior decorator Liz Biden’s speciality. Part of the Royal Portfolio – a collection of iconic hotels and private residences in South Africa owned and run by the Biden family, art and design is deeply ingrained into the property’s character – reflecting owner Liz and Phil’s keen eye. Drawing inspiration from their travels, lavish interiors are complemented by exotic antiques and artefacts from far-flung destinations, as well as by an astonishing collection of South African art.

Even our key is extra – a huge plush tassel, I think as we open the door to our room, number 7 – The Pink Suite. Opening onto a sunny verandah with views out over the lake, it’s a treasure trove of the fantastical. From Provencal antiques to a pink chaise longue upholstered with the flamboyant tropical print, fantastic local artwork and plush Persian rugs. Our mirrored bathroom is as large as our bedroom, with a feature roll-top bath looking out over the grounds. With velvets, silks and spoiling details like complimentary wine from the estate’s vineyards as well as crystal decanters filled with dessert wines, and the rooms here were made for romance.

One of 11 suites in the main building, each room has its own distinct personality – from our girly boudoir to the palatial honeymoon suite which is decked out in white marble. The Maharani Suite’s Indian-inspired décor, dual aspect balconies and steps up to the bed happen to be Elton’s favourite. He liked the hotel so much that he gave the beautiful Jacaranda trees that surround the dam as a gift.

But the thing about La Residence is that you don’t have to be Elton John to get the rockstar treatment. In keeping with a gastronomic capital like Franschhoek, the food is world-class – with the opportunity to dine at the Chef’s table, or alternatively, a complimentary car will whisk you the five-minute drive (instead of a 20-minute walk) to reservations one of the top restaurants in town. The breakfast ‘buffet’, a huge spread laid out in the Great Hall complete with a cheese trolley and multi-tiered stands of goodies, is perhaps the best I’ve had, and even comes with an a la carte option to follow.

With 11 hectares of vineyards yielding Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, the hotel also offers a total of 8 ways to taste wine, including a helicopter tour.

But the devil is in the detail. Like the staff, who remember that I like my chardonnay unoaked. Who bring a huge table across the lawn complete with flower arrangements so we can lunch while admiring the view. It’s picking up our rental to find it’s been valeted, always knowing your name, encouraging you to stay well beyond checkout and the free-flowing service from a warm, sincere staff.

We take one of the wine bottles home as a honeymoon present. It’s sat in the corner of our little London apartment, waiting for an occasion. Until then, I’ll look at that bottle of La Residence Nicole Charlotte 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon and be glad to be reminded of our time in this most special corner of the Cape, the kind of place where everyone from us to Elton, can come to feel like a rockstar.

La Residence www.theroyalportfolio.com/la-residence; rooms start from R6150 / ca. £261 per person incl. breakfast

Less than 2 hours drive from Cape Town, in the South African seaside town of Hermanus, you’ll find a honeymooners dream hideaway – boutique beach retreat, Birkenhead House.

From the moment you enter the pastel yellow walls of the elegant collonaded main house, you begin to understand what has earned this chic beach hotel such wide acclaim. The laid-back beachy vibe is unassuming yet upmarket with sumptuous interiors and with just 11 decadent individually decorated rooms, feels more like a sprawling private villa than a hotel. Add to that the unforgettable clifftop location and there’s no better spot to hunker down with your other half and watch the waves roll in.

With glasses of champagne in hand and smiles on our faces, we descend through a central courtyard, past a tiered pool flanked by smart pillars, pink and white striped sun loungers and decadent floral arrangements. Looking back, the Mosselberg Mountains rise behind the roof. An art-deco inspired dining room and lounge area open out over Walker Bay, a smaller infinity pool and sun loungers making the most of the all-encompassing ocean views from the vantage point above two sandy coves.

Between June and November, Southern Right and Humpback Whales can be seen migrating through these waters, but on this sunny December day, we watch the surfers ride the swells below us. Adding to the home-from-home feel, rates here are all-inclusive, which means that we can enjoy the scenery while taking in some of the local produce, namely some fantastic local wine, which is served by an ever-smiling staff who ensure your glass is never in any danger of being empty. We spend hours relaxing on the loungers here, just enjoying the salty sea breeze and fine Chardonnay.

Thanks to owner Liz Biden’s signature design, the hotel interiors more than match the beauty of this sweeping Atlantic setting. Marble floors mix with contemporary artworks, ornate chandeliers, Persian throws, french antiques and touches of the orient to create a whimsical feel. It’s rather like being in the beach house of a well-travelled relative with impeccable taste – each piece of art hand-selected, each antique or coffee table book picked up from some far-flung corner of the globe and carefully curated in this collection of snoop-worthy artefacts and artistry. The creative force behind the Royal Portfolio, whose properties also include The Silo and La Residence, Birkenhead House was converted from the original Biden family beach house and still retains its low-key charm alongside its luxurious design.

The common spaces in the hotel are executed with panache, but Liz’s eye for the unusual is unleashed in the individual design of each of the suites. Ours is located on the first floor, offering ocean views and a full balcony overlooking the pool and out to the ocean. It’s seriously seductive – with a roll-top bath, white shuttered windows to let the ocean breeze flow through, and a huge bed with some of the best sheets I’ve ever had the pleasure of sleeping on. I loved the quirky artwork – like the series of cheeky cartoonist drawings over the bed and the little touches, like the eco-friendly aluminium water bottles and free-flowing minibar. Some of the rooms even have their own private pool, but I wouldn’t have traded ours, with its sunset views.

The design is staggering, but what truly sets Birkenhead House apart are the staff. It’s all the service you’d expect from a five-star hotel and more. Like when we mention it’s our honeymoon and return after dinner to find a candlelit bubble bath with chilled fizz and chocolate-dipped strawberries laid out for us. Or when I (ever graceful) manage to cut my finger – not only did a first aid box appear from nowhere, but they even packaged up a gift bag with bandages and antiseptic for our journey.

The attention to detail is so apparent, even our dinner menus have our names printed on them. With an all-inclusive rate, you can indulge in everything from speciality cocktails to the devilish cakes that are laid out to tempt you in the afternoon. Lunch is a tapas-style menu, perfect for long afternoons spent overlooking the ocean. With an abundance of regional produce on offer, it’s not surprising that the menus are sensational – from local seafood to mussels picked fresh from the rocks right below the hotel. Our personalised dinner menu features hearty soups, fresh seafood, and the seabass for me and steak for him, paired with wines by the glass from nearby Hemel and Aarde Valley. But breakfast, with a spread of pastries, quiches, oysters and even a side of cured ham, followed by eggs benedict and a glass of pink fizz – as suggested by the ever-thoughtful staff, was my personal favourite.

While the town of Hermanus may be sedate, it offers some of the most pristine beaches on the Western Cape. As well as the two sandy coves below the hotel (accessed via a winding stone staircase hewn into the rock) guests can also walk around the headland on a footpath to Grotto Beach, where you’ll find 18km of white wind-swept dunes between the mountains and ocean – perfect for running off all aforementioned cakes.

For the more adventurous, Hermanus boasts activities aplenty including whale watching, shark cage diving, golf, horse riding on the beach, hiking, surfing as well as mussel picking and foraging for the foodies among you. I’m a little ashamed to admit that we didn’t indulge in any of these extra activities, not because they don’t sound brilliant, but simply because Birkenhead House is quite so special, you’ll want to spend every minute possible there.

An eclectic blend of beach house cool meets the Hamptons this sleepy surf-swept spot in Hermanus is just the place to hideaway with your other half and take in the many joys of the Western Cape.

To book Birkenhead House visit www.theroyalportfolio.com/birkenhead-house; rooms start from R4150 / £157 per person on full board basis

There’s nothing like being stuck inside to make you appreciate the great outdoors. So while COVID-19 may mean we are unable to travel at the moment, it won’t stop us dreaming of our next glamping getaway. Whether it’s a cosy cabin, whimsical treehouse or bedecked bell tent, these unusual staycation choices are not only eco-friendly but will support local businesses when it is once again safe to travel. Add to that an outdoor bathtub for an alfresco soak, and there’s nowhere we’d rather get off-the-grid and back to nature.
While we may not be able to travel right now – companies like Canopy and Stars also do gift cards, so you can support businesses in the short term and plan your trip for when it is safe to travel. In the meantime, here are 9 of the best outdoor bathtubs in the UK to inspire your next staycation – whenever that may be. 

The Woodman’s Treehouse , West Dorset

Set high in the oak canopy, this stylish treehouse tucked away in ancient Dorset woodland is a design-lovers dream getaway – having been featured on both Grand Designs and George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces. A kingsize bed, rotating fireplace, hot tub and even a slide are just some of the features in this high-end hideaway, while a double-ended freestanding copper tub provides the ultimate canopy views.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BkRzh7nHz1U/

The Old Piggery, Windout Barn Exeter

Set among centuries-old buildings in the rural Devonshire hills, this open plan barn hideaway was made for lovers – with side-by-side “his and hers” claw-foot bathtubs that sit on a private deck overlooking the apple orchard.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B9GfKuUFec2/

The Lakehouse at Coddington Mill, Cheshire

This luxurious lakeside retreat is nestled on a stretch of Cheshire countryside in the grounds of the historic Coddington Mill. Dark woods and rich textures inside ooze romance – while the copper tub on the decking is the ideal place to watch for wildlife darting across the waters. Funds from your stay will go to the restoration of the mill and preservation of its surroundings, so you can relax knowing you’re making a positive contribution to this ecosystem.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B8thZjPJIQd/

The Nook, Coleman’s Farm, Essex

This tiny wooden house in the Essex countryside exemplifies small but perfectly formed in the cosiest escape imaginable – a snug complete with mezzanine beds, wood burner and tin hot tub. Within just an hour of London, even the most stressed-out city slicker has no excuse not to unwind here.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BhxBHVcgrr2/

Cleave Treehouse, Devon

A nordic inspired A-frame treehouse tangled in the treetops overlooking Dartmoor National Park – this super secluded hideaway takes laid-back luxe to new heights. A birch plywood interior creates a calming Scandi-chic vibe, with dramatic double-height ceilings, cosy log burner and huge windows to take in the forest views. On the deck, a claw foot tub big enough for two overlooks the canopy.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B29D_Xvh_35/

Cheviot, Huts in the Hills, Northumberland

Located in the rugged hills of Northumberland National Park, Cheviot is one of four luxury shepherds huts on a traditional working hill farm with cattle and sheep. Made from solid reclaimed oak, these huts are designed to take you back to nature – but not without a few luxuries, like the private deck complete with free-standing tub, or sky window above the bed – perfect for gazing up at Northumberland’s dark skies – renowned for their stargazing.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B6yLgJCA24C/

Hill Cottage, Croft 103, West Sutherland, Scotland

Set on the shores of Loch Eriboll near Durness in North West Sutherland, these low impact buildings are designed to reflect this bleakly beautiful landscape, with rough-hewn honey-coloured stones. Inside, sleek, modern finishes and every creature comfort awaits – including two baths, one inside and one outdoors on the terrace, overlooking the sea.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B6d7hOdjm54/

Willow The Wisp Cabin, East Sussex

Tucked away in five acres of woodland in East Sussex, this fairytale cabin is a cosy escape for two, with a wood-burner and outdoor wood-fired Hikki tub.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4vbN44AiOb/

The Hide Roundhouse, Somerset

Set on an organic farm, this adults-only glamping retreat has just two yurts and two wooden roundhouses. Hide Roundhouse boasts chic white-walled interiors that wouldn’t be amiss in a beach house in Tulum, with an ensuite bathroom, underfloor heating, clawfoot bath and rain shower – while an outdoor bathhouse surrounded by twinkling fairy lights is nestled in your own private garden.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BxJs_UzA8gs/

Introducing you to the Balmer Lawn hotel, New Forest

From its fantastic two-AA Rosette restaurant to its friendly service, a stay at the characterful Balmer Lawn Hotel, one of the region’s most historically rich hotels was always going to be highly enjoyable.

History of the Balmer Lawn hotel

And you will be in splendid company too, as this imposing family-owned hotel has hosted esteemed guests including royalty since the mid-1800s such as King George V, Queen Mary and Winston Churchill.

Situated in the heart of the stunning New Forest and the picturesque town of Brockenhurst, the Balmer Lawn is an expansive four-star red brick hotel surrounded by 500 acres of picturesque expanses of forestry complete with the obligatory cute ponies.

Balmer Lawn hotel in the New Forest, Hampshire
Balmer Lawn hotel in the New Forest, Hampshire

The building has taken on many guises over the years which includes a hunting lodge, field hospital and General Eisenhower even issued orders for the D-Day Landings during the Second World War from here.

The hotel has maintained many of its historical features and this aesthetic has been extended to the decor such as the antique-style furnishings, Windsor chairs and the vintage-inspired four-poster beds.

Staying at the Balmer Lawn hotel

We stayed in one of the sumptuous traditionally-styled queen rooms which makes for a truly romantic experience thanks to its traditional wooden furniture, heavy curtains and queen-sized four-poster bed. Heritage and vintage aesthetics are the name of the game and many of the rooms overlook the lush greenery where ponies roam.

Balmer Lawn hotel reception area
Balmer Lawn hotel reception area

Balmer Lawn hotel facilities

The hotel has an outdoor heated pool towards the rear of the hotel which made for a relaxing dip. It also has an indoor pool, sauna, gym and jacuzzi. The spa makes for a relaxing experience and has a cosy relaxation area where you can zen out with a healing cup of herbal tea.

Balmer Lawn hotel swimming pool
Balmer Lawn hotel swimming pool
The spa at the Balmer Lawn hotel in the New Forest
The spa at the Balmer Lawn hotel in the New Forest

Beresfords Restaurant at the Balmer Lawn hotel

As well as its stunning location in the Hampshire countryside, one of the highlights of staying at the Balmer Lawn is the amazing food at the two AA-rosette Beresfords restaurant.

Headed up by esteemed executive head chef Andrew Gault and head chef Ben Brooks, Beresfords have an impressive menu filled with delicious dishes with ethically and locally sourced ingredients.

We started with one of the ‘Beresfords Bites’ – the Gloucester Old Spot Pork Crackling with an apple and pear compote which was one of the best dishes of crackling I have ever had.

Beresford restaurant at the Balmer Lawn hotel in the New Forest
Beresford restaurant at the Balmer Lawn hotel in the New Forest

All of the dishes from the starters through to desert are jam-packed with flavour and enjoy exquisite presentation. The Cornish lobster souffle, the quail scotch egg and the vibrant salt-baked beetroot with goat’s curd are all excellent choices for starters and the watercress risotto, Cornish wild sea bass and roasted fillet of chalk stream trout are an absolute delight.

One particular highlight was the 28 day matured fillet steak which comes with thick chips, salsa verde and confit tomatoes.

For more informal dining, you can enjoy snacks and light bites at The Lodge Kitchen and Bar, which stretches out into an alfresco eatery.

The bar at the Balmer Lawn hotel
The bar at the Balmer Lawn hotel

There are some interesting wines to choose from on their expansive wine list and you can also opt for a beer from the local Ringwood Brewery.

The glorious New Forest is amazing all year round, but a stay at the Balmer Lawn makes for serene and highly-satisfying getaway.

Check in: Double rooms start from £215 per night or for a luxury four poster bed- £300 per night.

You might be wondering why Hollywood heavyweights like Kevin Costner and Oprah Winfrey choose to live in Santa Barbara County rather than Los Angeles. And even the likes of Harry and Meghan have chosen to call Montecito home. Much like the French Riviera, the small-city, Mayberry coastal setting is an irresistible attraction. It is popular with surfing aficionados, culture vultures and wine enthusiasts. However, paparazzi are rarely spotted in the region. In this article, we examine why Santa Barbara is ready to blossom, not just for celebrities but for the international tourism scene.

World-class hotels

Hollywood royalty adores discreet five-star hotels and it is no surprise you’ll see the likes of Jane Lynch and Michael Keaton falling in love with Hotel Californian. The ornate Spanish colonial revival architecture along with the Moorish interior from celebrity designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard is a magnet for celebrities. The Mirador Rooftop Deck, which offers panoramic 360-degree views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean is a crowning jewel of the hotel. All of the surrounding buildings are three storeys or lower due to changed building laws post-1925. The stunning Majorelle spa is equally popular with Majorelle blue tiles that are often found in Moroccan designs

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara is the place for celebrity weddings. Hollywood couples who have celebrated their wedding there include Nick Carter and Lauren Kitt, Fergie and Josh Duhamel, and Travis Barker and Shanna Moakler. The hotel is just slightly outside of downtown Santa Barbara and tucked away on 78 acres of land overlooking the Pacific to offer that seclusion and privacy celebrities require. You can appreciate the beauty of the surroundings by going on a nature hike along the Chumash Nature Trail. They have one of the finest steakhouses in the region with Angel Oak and their newest opening, Bacara Wine Tasting Room is attracting countless plaudits.

Funk Zone

The area by the waterfront has risen like a phoenix from the ashes in recent years. Evolving from decrepit warehouses to the trendiest district of Santa Barbara, it is now home to countless wine-tasting rooms, gourmet restaurants and art galleries. Wine appreciation rather than mere wine consumption is the name of the game here. You are very likely to encounter one of the Baldwin brothers at The Society: State & Mason, the newest wine-tasting room in the zone. Exquisite wines are either paired with tapas-style dishes or innovative truffles from Jessica Foster. Madras curry-flavoured milk chocolate anyone?

The trendy restaurants are equally in demand in this part of town. Blackbird Restaurant pays homage to one of Hollywood’s greatest directors, Alfred Hitchcock, with subtle nods including a photo with Alfred Hitchcock and a seagull on one shoulder and a blackbird on the other. The menu passionately supports local produce from Santa Barbara spiny lobster to Hope Ranch mussels. The cocktails from renowned mixologist Devon Espinosa are not to be missed. On the border of the Funk Zone, you’ll find upscale Mexican cuisine at Santo Mezcal and a meat lover’s paradise at the retro-decorated, Rare Society.

Ganna Walska Lotusland

If Willy Wonka was in the botanical industry instead of confectionery, this is precisely what he might have created. 37 acres of the most fantastical gardens and stunning architecture. Ganna Walska, who used to own the estate until she died in 1984 (aged 96), used to call herself the ‘head gardener’ and ‘enemy of the average’. It is one of the top five gardens in the world in terms of comprehensiveness. The attractions range from the immaculately pruned Japanese Garden to the imposing cactus garden to the priceless cycad garden with plants that date back to the Jurassic period. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are known to be regular visitors and live close by.

Eclectic Museums and attractions

For a city of under 89,000 inhabitants, the museum-to-local population ratio is extremely high. One of their finest is the Santa Barbara Museum of Art . With around 25,000 pieces of distinguished artwork that span over 5,000 years of human creativity, it is no surprise over 150,000 visitors flock to the museum every year. They often have special pop-up exhibitions that highlight lesser-known, yet deserving artists such as Joan Tanner. Her outlandish sculptures made of plastic corrugated roofing sheets, re-bar, cast concrete etc. were displayed earlier in the year. The museum even has Oscar links, thanks to Christopher Plummer who famously won a well-deserved Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in “Beginners”. In the film, he played Paul Chadbourne Mills who was the director of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and came out as gay later in life at the age of 75.

For family-orientated experiences, there is MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation. The ultra-immersive installations will get your scientific brain motivated whether you are 8 or 80 and is popular with celebrities like Julie Bowen. A visit to historic Stearns Wharf is a must where you’ll find the equally interactive Sea Center. There you can touch an exotic array of marine life from sharks to rays to sea stars. To explore the rich history of the city, there is the Old Mission dating back to 1786, when the Church was building its presence in the area through these settlements. The graceful charm of the Mission has earned it the nickname “Queen of the Missions”. There is also a historic cemetery and mausoleum, a nine-room museum of classical artwork and artefacts, and numerous lush gardens.

Quirky experiences

With the philanthropic nature of the locals, you will be unsurprised to find a cat therapy cafe in the city centre. You can visit for an hour and play with 15-20 free-roaming rescue cats. They also sell apparel as well as help their resident cats find a forever, loving home. Not far away, you’ll find Salt cave Santa Barbara, the largest in North America. There are numerous therapeutic benefits to resting in their crystal cave rooms lined with pink Himalayan salt.

https://santabarbaraca.com/

A trip to Athens is perfect for those who enjoy artisan shops, independent restaurants and boutique hotels. It is a multi-faceted city where you don’t have to plan your trip but still have plenty to do if you are based in downtown Athens.

They have a dazzling array of shopping experiences from concept stores to historic shops. One place that should be high on your list of places to visit is The Naxos Apothecary. It is the oldest herbal pharmacy in Athens.

The exposed labs will immediately attract your attention. You can observe the preparation of herbal remedies, face creams and fragrances. The Korres products you are likely to find in your home countries. However, the tailor-made face creams and bath products of The Naxos Apothecary product collection are worth purchasing. They feature a set of five fragrances inspired and named after some of the most breathtaking villages of Naxos.

Next door to the apothecary is the newly opened xenodocheio Milos boutique hotel. It is the perfect base for you to explore the city, being a short walk away from Syntagma Square. It’s the Athens equivalent of Trafalgar Square. It is the first luxury hotel from the world-renowned restaurant group, estiatorio Milos. They’ve offered elevated Greek cuisine specialising in seafood since 1979 when it was founded in Montreal.

The hotel oozes effortless elegance from the moment you step out of your car in front of the hotel. It is a 19th-century neo-classical building that was designated a landmark building by the Ministry of Culture in 1979. It is situated opposite the Old Parliament House which is now the National History Museum.

The rooms have a serene minimalist style and soothing wooden panelling that are reminiscent of Nobu Hotels. Even though they have 43 rooms only. It’s sub-divided into nine categories from your entry-level classic room to the neoclassical apartment, that is the Milos signature suite. Most of the rooms enjoy mesmerising views of the Old Parliament House or Lycabettus Hill. The summit of the latter is the highest point in central Athens.

They make exceptional use of the window area by creating a cushioned nook area, which is perfect for reading a book whilst admiring the flow of Athenians in the downtown area.

Only the very best amenities will do at xenodocheio Milos. You’ll find Simmons luxury mattresses, a Nespresso coffee machine, and an Alessi Kettle Machine. You won’t be surprised to find the toiletries are made exclusively for the hotel by The Naxos Apothecary next door. They even provide dental kits which is a rarity at most 5-star hotels.

Even though the mini-bar isn’t complimentary, it is well worth trying out the handpicked treats on display. They include Popy’s gourmet popcorn, luxury Leonidas milk chocolate and a dry “Enotria” red from the Douloufakis Winery.

You can’t talk of their hotel without mentioning their outstanding restaurant. They have branches throughout the world including London, New York and Miami. The clean design of the restaurant works perfectly with the rest of the hotel. It was designed by renowned architects, Divercity Architects.

Prominent in the design is an artist’s interpretation of a fisherman’s net on the ceiling. That is a gentle clue to the main focus of their restaurant: supremely fresh seafood. The menu includes signature dishes such as whole fish baked in sea salt and lobster from Nova Scotia either grilled or served with pasta Athenian style.

Even the breakfast buffet is filled with Greek delights. You are served with fresh juice and a break basket including Koulouri, the iconic Greek sesame bread ring. The buffet station has the signature spanakopita. The eggs of your choice cooked to order are served with local tomatoes, cheese and a smattering of olives.

Service is attentive yet discreet and you never have to wait long for any dishes to arrive. They truly embody the Greek philosophy of ‘philoxenia’, which means an act of hospitableness and welcome. Note the in-room dining is 24 hrs and carried out by the kitchen team from estiatorio Milos.

They do offer an ELEMIS SPA Suite, which is all about ‘evexia’, the Greek word for well-being. Their deeply relaxing aromatherapy massage will unwind any modern-day stresses within 60 minutes. They use Mediterranean essential oils including extracts of bitter orange, cardamon and ginger.

The massage begins with inhalation exercises and ends with a mist of Aloe Vera sprayed over the body. I would strongly recommend booking in advance as they only have one SPA suite.

Alternative dining options in the area are in abundance. Most are independently run restaurants that offer a wide variety of cuisines.
Asian food is particularly well-represented in the area.

You can enjoy comforting ramen at So so so! on Apollonos Street and in fact, most of the neighbouring restaurants offer Asian cuisine. If you want high-quality yet casual-dining sushi, there is Akira Japanese restaurant. If you fancy some aromatic Vietnamese food, there is Hanoi Vietnamese restaurant. And finally, baos are all the rage in Athens. You can enjoy very affordable baos at Thess Bao with unusual combinations like their mushroom ‘gyros’ which is served with cannabis oil.

Athens is a truly vibrant city bursting with individuality. Make sure you check out my recommendations when you are next in Greece.

For more information on the hotel, please visit –

https://www.xenodocheiomilos.com/

Explore the wonders of adventuring in St Lucia, nicknamed the “Helen of the West Indies,” renowned for its lush rainforests, stunning peaks, and captivating history of changing hands between the English and French. Discover world-class diving sites and immerse yourself in its natural beauty. In this article, we examine the accessible adventures on offer that will allow you to soak in the alluring beauty of the island without over-inducing an excess of adrenaline.

Adventuring in St Lucia

Bamboo rafting

One of the newest experiences on offer in St Lucia is bamboo rafting on the Roseau River. It is the longest and largest river on the island. The tranquil beauty of the river in the Anse-la-Raye Quarter is in distinct contrast to the busier resort-laden parts of northern St Lucia. The enterprise has been started by the ex-tourism minister. What is particularly impressive is not only is the raft made entirely of bamboo, but your guide sets sail only with a bamboo pole. It is an entirely non-motorised experience down to the beachfront for a carbon-neutral experience. Your local guide will serenade you with facts on the local flora, fauna and topography. Mid-journey you will break at a rustic shack where you can sample local coconuts and cocktails from a local entrepreneur. There are multiple add-ons such as a rum distillery tour (more on that later) and a segway tour.

Rainforest hike

There are numerous stunning hiking trails throughout St Lucia. One I would recommend is The En Bas Saut Falls Trail. Ideally, you’ll need a 4×4 to drive to the start of the trail near Soufrière often through rugged cobblestone roads (though we did spot one brave soul trekking up jungle slopes to the hike). The trek through the majestic rainforest takes anywhere between 1.5-2.5 hours to complete. It is a sub-4 km hike which involves uneven steps down to the waterfall and then steps back up. You’ll visit a 7-8 metre waterfall and the best part is you can swim up close for a cooling escape from the tropical heat. There will be offers of guided tours as you travel closer to the starting point of the trail. However, note that this is not essential given the route is an easily identifiable trail. The trickier part would be finding the starting point with your hire car. The best way to get there is to book a guided tour with reputable boutique hotels such as the nearby Têt Rouge Resort. The excursions are reasonably priced, and the options are varied.

Adventuring in St Lucia

Catamaran cruise

A catamaran tour is the best way to appreciate the overall magnificence of the island. Têt Rouge offers a 40 ft catamaran for hire privately. You can enjoy a sunset cruise, savour a barbecue on board, swim or snorkel in the refreshing waters or simply get taken to remote, pristine beaches. You get arguably the best angle at spotting the iconic twin peaks of Gros Piton and Petit Piton. You can peek into the most exclusive resorts on the island such as Jade Mountain Resort, or if you just want to unwind the Caribbean way, recline your back onto the catamaran trampoline, listen to the sea breeze and stare into the cloudless blue sky with a rum punch in your hands.

Cacoa Sainte Lucie

If you want an elevated dining experience and still have views of the verdant tropical rainforest, make sure you head to Cacoa Sainte Lucie. Situated in Belvedere Canaries, the site is at the perfect vantage point to soak up the surrounding greenery and the soothing ocean scenery. As they are a small-batch premium chocolate maker, the menu in their restaurant unsurprisingly contains countless cocoa. One of their signature dishes is the cocoa-crusted grilled Mahi served with a sweet chilli creole sauce. You might wonder: why add cocoa to dishes? Raw cacao is a superfood containing high doses of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. Their chocolate trio dessert is not to be missed. They have an interactive chocolate-making workshop as well as a gift shop selling everything from gourmet chocolate truffles to hot chocolate powder (and my personal choice: a decadent chocolate lamington).

Rum distillery tour

Next to the bamboo rafting experience, you can also partake in a distillery tour at St Lucia Distillers. The tour has the perfect blend of video presentations, a brief rum-making tutorial, a kitsch carnival exhibition and an unbelievably generous rum-tasting finale. From April to November, when the sugarcane is harvested, guests can observe the harvesting at the cane fields which is a 5-minute walk from the distillery. The tour is about how they’ve used what’s abundant in nature in St Lucia to turn the product into one of the most popular spirits in the world. Their knowledgeable guides will take you around their working distillery and explain the concept in layman’s terms.

Rum is intimately linked to the carnival spirit and they have a carnival room displaying a dazzling array of fanciful costumes. The exhibition also goes in-depth about the origins and traditional practices that accompany carnivals in St Lucia. The finale of the tour is truly breathtaking. You get to sample their whole range of rums, rum-based creams and liqueurs. This is from the entry-level range to their most premium range, and it is all self-service and free pouring. This is a must for all rum aficionados. Afterwards, you should take a trip to their gift shop where their spirits are offered at factory prices.

Experience St. Lucia’s most iconic nature trails designed by your very own hiking butler! Discover more about these exclusive trails in our article on House of Coco.

There are roughly 29 flights per week flying from London to St Lucia. The average flight time is only 8 hours and 55 minutes. The lowest average temperature is in January at a barmy 26°C. March is the sunniest time of year, with over ten hours of sunlight per day. With these wonderful weather conditions and a diverse offering for tourists, make sure you consider St Lucia for your Caribbean holiday.

https://www.stlucia.org/en/

Away from the glitz of Miami and the theme parks of Orlando, Florida is a state bursting with natural beauty. You can experience the untouched beauty in places like The Charlotte Harbor Gulf Island Coast.

Often you’ll hear, Americans from the New York side gravitate towards the Atlantic side of Florida. The populace from the Midwest and centre of the country tend to travel to the Gulf side of Florida. In places like Punta Gorda and Englewood Beach, you’ll experience genuine American hospitality in a laid-back environment. There are memorable outdoor experiences you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Punta Gorda

Babcock Ranch Eco Tours

For those seeking to observe the flora and fauna of Florida, you should consider taking part in Babcock Ranch Eco Tours. Their swamp buggy eco-tour will take you through a working cattle ranch as well as through dramatic swamp lands. Throughout the 90-minute tour, you might spot majestic osprey, soft-shell turtles and wild turkeys. You are almost guaranteed to see alligators.

You get to travel through four different ecosystems. There are surprises along the way including petting a baby alligator and getting out of the buggy for a stroll through the Telegraph Cypress Swamp on a raised platform.

The Sean Connery film, Just Cause was famously filmed on the ranch and they even donated a hunting shack to the organisation.

If you are in the mood for a bite afterwards, they do have the Gator Shack restaurant. You won’t be surprised to hear they serve gator bites and wraps on their menu.

Alligator Creek Preserve

If you are looking for a relaxing nature preserve to spot wildlife that is also free of charge, do check out Alligator Creek Preserve. There are four plus miles of nature trails inside the preserve, but it is also next to the 45,000-plus acre Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park.

They have recently rebuilt a sheltered alligator dock for you to spot the lounging reptiles. They have commercial-grade viewfinders that are coin-free to help you spot the fauna.

They are a non-profit organisation and their chief focus is educational activities for the local school children as well as raising environmental awareness and preservation for the local surroundings.

Peace River Wildlife Center

Travelling through various parts of Florida, you’ll realise their preference is not to build zoos but wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centres. At Peace River, they have an adorable collection of animal friends.

Their iconic ambassador is Luna the white Eastern Screech Owl. He is leucistic rather than albino. That means he lacks the cells that make pigments throughout his body. As they are heavily reliant on camouflage to protect themselves from larger predators, Luna stays permanently at the rescue centre for his protection.

Due to a shortage of space, they currently mainly house rescued birds. However, they are currently fundraising for a brand-new education centre in downtown Punta Gorda. With the increased capacity, they are hoping to be able to support more rescued mammals and reptiles in the coming years.

They run very strong education and awareness campaigns including responsible fishing and awareness of invasive species.

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens

Having only opened in 2017, this botanical garden is one of the most impressive you’ll encounter in the United States. This 30-acre waterfront haven consists of five ecosystems including marshlands, wetlands, mangroves, uplands and tidal basins.

They have over 4,500 plants, trees and bamboo blended in with Florida’s natural landscape. They’ve created one of the largest botanical and sculptural gardens in Florida. Highlights include a rainbow eucalyptus. You’ll need to walk up and observe the bark to see why it has the rainbow moniker.

Their cycad garden is also worth visiting. These prehistoric plants appeared on Earth before the age of the dinosaurs. Most species are in decline around the world with four species on the edge of extinction. They are hugely valuable and have been known to be a target for opportunistic thieves.

A significant part of the experience is also about art appreciation. They have some outstanding sculptures on loan at the site. The ones to highlight include Next Summer and Bibi on the Ball. Both are from Carole Feuerman. The hyper-realistic style means you need to observe the sculptures up close, where you might spot individual eyelashes or veins on the elegant legs.

Englewood Beach

Kayaking through Englewood

If you are looking for something more active. I suggest a kayaking tour with SUP Englewood. If Punta Gorda is all about the flora and fauna, then Englewood is all about embracing the Florida coastline.

They run kayaking tours in various locations, but I would recommend the Don Pedro Island State Park tour. Their knowledgeable guides will give you the best practice for ethical paddling. You’ll be able to get up close with dolphins and manatees. You might spot fascinating shellfish like conch and crabs or hear majestic coastal birds like herons and ospreys.

You can paddle through scenic mangroves or take a short walk on Don Pedro Island to observe the pristine beauty of this barrier island.

An unspoilt beach haven

Experience an uncrowded side of Florida with the pure, wide, white sandy beaches of Englewood. There is a scenic 900ft boardwalk that crosses over the beach vegetation if you want to observe the shoreline from a distance.

You’ll find all the amenities you need such as water stations, restrooms and shower facilities, but it never feels commercialised. There are no vendors to approach you selling tourist gifts. The few bars and restaurants in the area are within walking distance but not right on the beach.

You are allowed to fish on the shoreline. You can walk for miles on end with pure sand on your feet whilst admiring the captivating Floridian coastline.

For those who think Florida is overcrowded and commercialised, think again. A visit to Punta Gorda and Englewood Beach will show you what the real, pure Florida has to offer.

Factbox

Punta Gorda and Englewood Beach is Florida’s best-kept secret of a charming natural paradise located on the idyllic Southwest Gulf Coast.

This coastal community surrounding the state’s second-largest harbor sits conveniently between Tampa and Naples. British Airways and Virgin Atlantic have daily direct flights to Tampa.

For more information on the region, please visit –

https://www.pureflorida.com/

The vibrant culture scene in Cleveland is a hidden gem even to discerning Americans from other states. Cleveland has been an industrial hub for growth in the 19th and 20th centuries due to its proximity to natural resources like iron and oil. It is also very well connected by rail and water routes, which aided in the city’s growth.

John D. Rockefeller, widely regarded as the wealthiest American of all time, settled in Cleveland. The city was the richest in the world during the Gilded Age. These industrialists poured their wealth into cultural philanthropic endeavours, which is the reason for the thriving arts and entertainment scene in Cleveland.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Top of the list for music lovers to visit is the rock hall. If you think the pyramid structure looks familiar, it is because it was designed by I.M. Pei, who famously designed the Louvre Museum.

The number of artists on display is breathtaking. Where else will you see Dolly Parton and Tupac Shakur in the same exhibition? Dolly famously wanted to withdraw herself from becoming an inductee in 2022 because she did not consider herself a rock artist. However, the hall responded by saying “Rock and roll has had deep roots in rhythm & blues and country music.”

They currently have a Hip Hop at 50 exhibition. Apart from fascinating memorabilia like LL Cool J’s signature four-finger ring, you’ll also learn about how hip-hop became a groundbreaking cultural phenomenon through the decades.

The visit is also a very immersive experience. You can stand beneath the Pink Floyd tour replica of The Wall. It was designed to mirror the Berlin performance of July 21, 1990.

The Garage on level 2 is where you can evoke the great rock bands of the past. You can jam with real instruments, be it drums, guitar, bass and keyboards. They have dedicated practice stations which will have video prompts to help you create your masterpiece.

Severance Music Center

Countless music lovers have voted Severance Hall as the most beautiful concert hall in the world. The mainly Art Deco design along with elements of Egyptian revival adds to a sense of Gilded Age grandeur.

It is home to the Cleveland Orchestra, informally part of the “Big Five” in the United States. The acoustics have been drastically improved since it first opened in 1931. Whilst the main focus is on classical music, they do offer more relaxed performances such as Amadeus Live. The full film is shown with live orchestral underscore.

They also run community programs that include free annual neighbourhood concerts. And they have a particularly dynamic musical program that celebrates the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Cleveland Museum of Art

The breadth and quality of the exhibits at this museum rival the very best of museums from capital cities of the world. Their sparkling 39,000-square-foot atrium has been featured in films like ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’.

In times of considerable global tensions, they’ve managed to curate a blockbuster Chinese art exhibition. China’s Southern Paradise: Treasures from the Lower Yangzi Delta have secured priceless artefacts from leading Chinese institutions.

There are numerous masterpieces on display including The Crucifixion of Saint Andrew by Caravaggio and The Burning of the Houses of Parliament by J.M.W. Turner. However, they particularly excel in their collection of Asian and African art.

In recent years, they’ve engaged with modern technology through their ARTLENS Gallery and app. You can create your own digital artwork with ArtLens Studio. The app allows you to interact with every artwork on display in the galleries and find more information about it. Everything that is viewed is saved on the app, so you can revisit the masterpieces even when you’ve returned home.

Cleveland History Center

There is no better place to learn about the importance of Cleveland than at this museum. The array of antique automobiles might be a surprise to some. Although Cleveland was a major automobile manufacturing hub until Henry Ford perfected assembly line production of cars in Michigan.

The antique planes are equally impressive. Northeast Ohio had one of the busiest and largest airports in the world throughout the 1920s and 1930s. The legendary National Air Races took place on the shores of Lake Erie for 20 innovative years until an unfortunate crash took place in 1949.

Currently, they have a Fashion After Dark temporary exhibition which explores the fashion styles of Clevelanders from the 19th century and beyond. With the adoption of gaslight and electricity in the 19th century, evening wear rose in prominence. Expect to see sparkling sequins, flowing silks and dazzling gemstones. It is the first time an exhibition has taken place in the period building that is The Hay-McKinney Mansion.

Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland

If you are looking for progressive, modern art, this is the place to be. They are not a traditional art collecting museum. They are all about giving a voice to contemporary artists. Since its founding in 1968, they’ve worked with more than 2,000 artists. Often, it is the artist’s first solo show.

They currently have a fascinating exhibition, Don’t mind if I do. It takes the Japanese sushi conveyor belt concept (Kaitenzushi) but puts artwork instead of sushi on rotation. It is all about making artwork more accessible especially for people with access needs. It is about engaging with the artwork and touching all the objects.

They have regular workshops to engage with visitors such as a Day of the Dead workshop and a Pom-Pom workshop.

Flats East Bank Entertainment District

The gentrification of Cleveland is none more evident than in this district. What was once a series of abandoned warehouses has turned into a hub of cutting-edge restaurants, new hotels and residential apartments.

It has brought a hive of activity to the waterfront with the Greater Cleveland Aquarium and the general Nautica Entertainment Complex. It is a shining example of why Cleveland continues to captivate visitors with their countless cultural offerings.

Factbox

Downtown hotels start at around $150 per night.

Travellers can now fly direct to Cleveland from Dublin with Aer Lingus. The flight launched in May 2023 and operates four times a week, with connections from London Heathrow, Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Passengers can carry out their pre-clearance in Dublin so that, on arrival at Cleveland airport, they can avoid immigration queues, quickly collect their luggage and start their Cleveland experience immediately.

For more information on flights, please visit –

https://www.aerlingus.com/

For more information on the region, please visit –

https://www.thisiscleveland.com/