Absolute Escapes Travel Edition 2021 by Absolute Magazine Group

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Contributing Editors - Charlie McBrien Victoria Marie Emerson | Pete Hayward | Tony Shattell (food reviewer) Kasia Kash Features Editor - Victoria Marie Emerson - info@absolutemagazine.co.uk Design - Pete Hayward - petehayward.design Owners - Publishers Simon Darcy Abbott - simon@absolutemagazine.co.uk David Camici - dcamici@absolutemagazine.co.uk

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The Editor W

elcome to our latest magazine edition; Absolute Escapes.

Despite this still being a difficult time for the travel and tourism industry, we wanted to showcase this our stunning island nation and the many resorts beyond our shores that we have been lucky enough to visit and experience first hand. We are here to offer you, the reader, our first hand knowledge and inside information on the many varied island options available to you. We have selected a group of hotels, resorts and businesses that we feel offer an excellent mix of service, luxury, nature, family amenities and seclusion, helping you to tailor your own perfect getaway for that ultimate staycation or overseas island experience. Ibiza, Maldives and the Seychelles all have so much to offer from well over 300 hotels & lodges. As well as all being places to sun worship and relax, these islands are an ideal base from which to discover the stunning beauty of the culture and nature that surround them all. In the case of the Seychelles and Maldives these are teeming with breath-taking marine life, and the world-class diving sites allow anyone from novice to expert to discover what lies beneath the waves. Absolute Escapes brings you the insiders guide to a handful of the best hotels in the destinations we have been lucky enough to have had first hand experience of visiting with our other magazine titles (UK & Sussex, Seychelles, Ibiza and Maldives) All these locations will surprise and deliver an experience like no other or anywhere else on Earth.

Absolute Sussex and Beyond

ussex by the sea, with 150 kilometres of glorious British

coastline and acres of rolling countryside, is teaming with villages to explore, castles to escape to, stately homes to snoop around, gardens to roam and attractions to seek adventure. Whether you are a thrill seeker, an artist looking for inspiration, a

day tripper looking for a taste of the Great British seaside, a discerning foodie or you’re in the market for some retail therapy, there are thousands of possibilities right here on your doorstep.

Over the past year, our team of writers and reviewers have searched the county

and it’s surrounding towns to discover the very best of Sussex and beyond. Now, as we take a look back at our encounters and expeditions, we have narrowed

down this extensive list to bring you our guide to the ultimate must-visit places for you to add to your bucket list!

There are thousands of possibilities right here on your doorstep.

Absolute Sussex and Beyond

Brighton Pier In the last ten years, millions of pounds have been invested into the maintenance and redevelopment of Brighton Palace Pier. In 2006 Brighton Palace Pier shipped two of the most famous thrill rides all the way from Italy. Air Race and The Booster have attracted thrill seekers from around the country. The Booster lets you experience the force of over 3.6G’s in 2.8 seconds, at over 130 feet in the air it rotates you 360 degrees before plunging back towards Brighton Pier. Now firmly established as a pier of the 21st century with the charm of yester-year combined with modern retailing and entertainment facilities, the owners continue to preserve the historic structure whilst ensuring they still attract millions of visitors to enjoy the queen of all piers. Above the deck the latest video games, thrill rides and retail shops ensure visitors experience the best of classic seaside entertainment and the beloved Palm Court Restaurant remains the "Spiritual Home" of fish and chips and is on par with the very best restaurants in Britain! www.brightonpier.co.uk

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter Attracting fans from across the globe, this is a truly unique attraction offering the ultimate opportunity to journey behind the scenes of Harry Potter and experience the magic that has gone into creating the most successful film series of all time. Visitors to this extraordinary to this Watford based attraction are able to step into the original Great Hall, first built for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, experience green screen technology and marvel at the breath taking miniature scale model of Hogwarts castle. The attraction allows visitors the chance to see first hand the sheer scale and detail of the actual sets, costumes, animatronics, special effects and props that have been used in all eight of the Harry Potter films. In addition to the Great Hall, some of the most iconic sets featured in the attraction include Dumbledore’s office, Diagon Alley, the Ministry of Magic, number four Privet Drive, Gryffindor common room and the Forbidden Forest. www.wbstudiotour.co.uk

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard For those who crave a bit of nostalgia, a visit to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a must. Once you arrive, you are taken on a journey through time, allowing you to step onboard historic ships and explore magnificent museums from the Royal Navy’s past. Visit HMS Victory and see Nelson’s legendary warship, dive deep onboard HMS Alliance or take a Harbour Tour and discover a working naval base from the water. Leave nothing undiscovered with a Full Navy Ticket when you visit Britain’s top National Museum for naval and maritime heritage. See the history of the Georgian Navy inside The National Museum of the Royal Navy, experience traditional boatbuilding techniques at Boathouse 4 or learn the history of Royal Navy armaments at Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower. www.historicdockyard.co.uk

Reach new heights with Stealth the UK’s fastest roller coaster

Thorpe Park A mecca for the ultimate thrill seeker, Thorpe Park is home to over 30 thrilling rides, attractions and live events as well as some of the UK’s most popular roller coasters. Reach new heights with Stealth the UK’s fastest roller coaster launching riders to 205ft at 80mph in just 2.5 seconds. Take flight on THE SWARM the UK’s only winged coaster, or face one of Jigsaw’s most twisted traps with SAW - The Ride the world’s first horror themed roller coaster featuring a 100ft “beyondvertical” drop. Be sure to visit as the colder weather brings their legendary Fright Nights! Taking over from 28th September until early November, prepare to be scared senseless at the UK’s premier Halloween event with the return of our awardwinning live-action mazes and experiences as well as riding world-class rides in the dead of night. www.thorpepark.com

Afternoon Tea at Amberley Castle Located in the picturesque village of Amberley in the beautiful West Sussex countryside, Amberley Castle is a unique luxury hotel and restaurant steeped in over 900 years of history. Within its medieval walls lies a picturesque retreat which seamlessly blends ancient architecture and history with modern design and contemporary cuisine, cooked to the highest standards. Feel like royalty as you enjoy a sumptuous home-made afternoon tea within the historic lounge or outside terrace during the warmer months. You’ll be presented with a fine array of finger sandwiches, fruit and plain scones with clotted cream and seasonal preserve, plus a selection of delicious cakes, quiche and sausage rolls. Served with your choice of tea or coffee, this is a must visit for those visiting Sussex. History encompasses every part of this wonderful building and the many acres of gardens it stands in. Enjoy discovering the tennis courts, 18-hole putting green and croquet lawn, and even the resident peacock roaming the grounds. For those seeking tranquillity and relaxation, there are many quiet corners to discover under the shade of a tree or by the fireside. www.amberleycastle.co.uk

I360 sunset flight Take to the skies to see Brighton and the beautiful south coast as you have never seen them before. Glide up gently to 450ft in our futuristic glass viewing pod, which was conceived and designed by Marks Barfield Architects, creators of the London Eye. Admire 360-degree views across Brighton & Hove, the South Downs National Park, the UNESCO Biosphere and, on the clearest days, all the way along the coast to the Isle of Wight (49 miles away). The glass viewing pod is fully enclosed and spacious – it’s 10 times the size of a London Eye capsule. There is room for up to 175 visitors to stand at the edge of the pod and look out, or to move around and see the view from different angles. The Sky Bar on board the pod serves Nyetimber sparkling wine and other drinks from Sussex, so you can raise a glass of something special while taking in the views. The friendly in-flight crew will welcome you on board, point out landmarks and answer any questions. A viewing map is available and a multi-lingual app can be download before you board. We’d highly recommend downloading the app as it also has ‘pre-flight’ information about how British Airways i360 was built, as well as an in-app viewing map and a children’s section with fun facts and a treasure hunt! www.britishairwaysi360.com

Absolute Sussex and Beyond

Shopping in the North Laines, Brighton We all know that Brighton has a lot to boast about; a beautiful and buzzing seafront, an action-packed pier, an endless array of indie cafes and restaurants and an incredible and varied nightlife scene. Brighton has, however, one very well kept secret that captures the very essence of our Bohemian town; The North Laine. A shopping mecca for in-the-know Brightonians, this maze of over 400 colourful, wonderful and often weird independent shops keeps its visitors busy for hours as they wander through treasure troves stocking goodies that you just simply don’t find in the large chain stores. The name of this riot of retail dates back to Saxon times when ‘laine’ was a word used to describe the large arable fields that lay in Brighton. In this case, the laine in question consisted of five separate farming plots which themselves were split into smaller sections of land. It is the access tracks between each section that actually make up what is now the North Laine. The North Laine is so easy to find when you know where to look! As you arrive at Brighton station, instead of heading straight forward down the road well-trodden, swing a left and you are smack bang in alternative shopping heaven. www.northlaine.co.uk

Rampion Wind Farm Tour Brighton As you journey along the Sussex coast, you won’t fail to spot the battalion of wind turbines, standing proudly out to see. Captivated by their ingenuity and lured by their sleek form, both local residents and visitors alike are keen to get closer to the action to witness these now iconic sails at their full capacity. Such is the demand that Ross Boat Trips now offer 120 minutes sightseeing trips to the new Rampion Wind Farm array aboard Catamarans “Adept” (formally a wind farm transfer vessel) and “Voyager”. The 116 turbines are more than 8 miles off shore from Brighton and it takes about 45 minutes to get there. Adept or Voyager then enters the array field for approximately 30 minutes of slow cruising amongst the massive turbines and then those onboard get to witness panoramic views of the Sussex coast on the way back to Brighton Marina. www.rossboats.co.uk

The Royal Pavilion and Garden The Royal Pavilion is an exotic palace in the centre of Brighton with a colourful history. Built as a seaside pleasure palace for King George IV, this historic house mixes Regency grandeur with the visual style of India and China and is open for visitors throughout the year. Once you’ve taken in the opulent design of the Royal pavilion itself, be sure to take a wander through the beautiful Regency garden that surround it. Providing visitors and locals with a green haven in the heart of the city, the gardens are maintained under strict organic guidelines by a team of volunteers lead by the head gardener at the Royal Pavilion. This ‘nature assisted’ form of management promotes and supports bio-diversity within the gardens. Combined with the fact that the varied plant life attracts an amazing collection of butterflies, birds and bees, a stroll around the gardens is a feast for the senses and a celebration of nature. www.brightonmuseums.org.uk/royalpavilion

We want to look back and realise we made the absolute best of this challenging time and know that we evolved, thrived, and enjoyed ourselves.

London Life... after lockdown

hat a strange year we have had so far. Festivals

have been cancelled, holidays cancelled, weddings cancelled. Despite this we need to remind each other that 2020 has not been cancelled. The seasons of summer, autumn and winter will come and go as they always do, and this year will very much continue to soldier on as it always has and therefore so must we. Over the past year, our team of writers and reviewers have searched the county and it’s surrounding towns to discover the very best of Sussex and beyond. Now, as we take a look back at our encounters and expeditions, we have narrowed down this extensive list to bring you our guide to the ultimate must-visit places for you to add to your bucket list!

2020 has so far been challenging and quite different from everything we could have imagined at the start of the year. This period may have been a stressful,

tedious, and sad time for many, and possibly physically, emotionally, and mentally draining. It will however be a time of much needed change. Challenging periods in our lives can often symbolise the start of changing circumstances which can

be incredibly positive if viewed with mindfulness, openness, and optimism. This time of change will be an accomplishment for many. Those that turn challenging situations in to opportunities, and those that try to grow and learn in times of

turmoil will thrive and accomplish so much. Individuals, families, and businesses will evolve and adapt to find new ways of behaving, living with each other, thinking, and working together safely.

We are now in the glorious summer months, so let us use our time wisely to be

with our families and friends virtually and with social distancing and get outside safely as much as we can. Let us prepare, plan, and look forward to the future

and try not to be disheartened by our cancelled plans. We want to look back and realise we made the absolute best of this challenging time and know that we

evolved, thrived, and enjoyed ourselves. This time will not come this way again, so let us enjoy each small step towards normality and a life after lockdown, and not waste another moment of our year.

London Parks and Green Open Spaces. It is so important to still enjoy the outdoors while observing social distancing, but do also be mindful of observing the changing of the seasons which help you realise there is so much beauty in our surroundings to be grateful for, as long as we slow down long enough to notice it.

It is vital we all visit parks and outdoors spaces regularly for recreation and exercise to help boost our physical health and mental wellbeing. However, the toilet situation for many of us has become somewhat of an issue when visiting outdoor places during the Covid-19 epidemic. Now thankfully more parks and public open spaces with public toilet facilities are becoming available and re-opening. Phew!

The Royal Parks. The Royal Parks include Hyde Park, Greenwich Park, The Green Park, Kensington Gardens, Richmond Park, The Regents Park and Primrose Hill, Bushy Park and Victoria Tower Gardens. Currently, the car parks and the toilets in the Royal Parks remain closed, and the Royal Parks are asking Londoners and visitors to respect the open spaces they visit and adhere to the 2-meter social distancing. Two of my favourite parks are Greenwich Park and Richmond Park.

Greenwich Park is one of the single largest parks in London and is part of the Greenwich World Heritage Site with amazing views that overlook the Thames. This park is also home to the Prime Meridian point and The Royal Observatory, and certainly worth a visit as it is simply bursting with beautiful ancient trees and tranquil flower gardens. Greenwich park, London, SE10 8QY. Richmond Park is open but there is no vehicle access and the main carparks are closed. Cycling in the park has been limited to before 10am and after 4pm on weekdays only. The Richmond Park Golf Course has been re-opened since May. Dogs can be walked but need to be kept on leads, and the park cafés are open offering take-away refreshments., while the children’s playgrounds and toilets facilities are also currently unavailable. Richmond Park, London, TW10 5HS. Crystal Palace Park. Crystal Palace Park is a huge leafy Victorian public park in South East London. The small farm, the play park and toilets in the park are currently closed, but access to the car park remains open. Crystal Palace Park. Thicket Road, London, SE19 2GA. Blackheath. Blackheath in Greenwich is a beautiful open space, great to visit with a picnic or to fly a kite on a windy day. There is limited metered car parking on the residential roads around the heath. Blackheath. London, SE3. Clapham Common. Clapham Common is 220 acres of green space and urban park in the centre of Clapham in South London with three ponds and a Victorian bandstand. The Common is usually a popular place for concerts and festivals over the summer months, however, it is still a pretty, large open green location great for picnics and with space to walk, jog or cycle around the perimeter. Clapham Common, Windmill Drive, London. SW4 9DE.

National Trust The National Trust has started to open parks and gardens in the UK and Northern Ireland, and these will require tickets to be purchased in advance to help with the social distancing measures. Entry availability and tickets to new locations and their carparks are being released every week online.

Morden Hall Park. The Morden Hall park and garden centre are open daily from 10am until 4pm. Unfortunately, the café, book shop and toilets are still closed. The car park has no direct access through to the park and this also closes at 4pm. No dogs are allowed except assistance dogs. Morden Hall Park. Morden Hall Road, Morden, London, SM4 5JD. Osterley Park. The beautiful Osterley Park is a Georgian country estate in the county of Middlesex in the suburbs of West London. Osterley House, along with the shop and play trails, are unfortunately still closed but the gardens are open to visitors. Dogs are allowed in parkland only and must be kept on leads. The toilets are also open and have baby-change facilities available. The garden and parkland on the estate boasts colourful manicured gardens, fragrant rose gardens, herbaceous boarders and ornamental vegetable beds, and there is also a picturesque lake, manicured lawns, wild woodland walks and an ancient wildflower meadow to be discovered. The garden is open 10am until 5pm and the park is open 9am until 5pm. The car park costs £7 per car per visit, and there is free parking for National Trust members. Pre-paid tickets are required for your visit and entry to the gardens, parkland, and car park.

Ticket prices: Adult ticket £12, Child ticket £4, Family tickets £20 and one adult family tickets are £12. Osterley Park and House. Jersey Road, Isleworth, Middlesex, TW7 4RB. Gardens at Ham House. Ham House is a 17th century mansion in Richmond on the banks of the River Thames. The House itself is infamous for its collection of antique paintings, textiles and furniture and is rumoured to be haunted. Unfortunately, this beautiful house, its café and shop have been closed but the garden is open for visitors, and the toilets and baby-changing facilities are also open. Entry tickets for your visit to the Ham House gardens will need to be booked in advance online via the National Trust website, and this includes members. The National Trust at Ham House also request that you arrive within your 30-minute time slot and then you are welcome to stay the whole day until closing if you wish.

Ticket prices: Adult ticket £5, Child ticket £2.50, Family tickets £12.50 and one adult family tickets are £7.50. Its fee entry for National Trust members, however, pre-booking online is still required as a designated arrival time slot will be allocated. Ham House Gardens. Ham Street, Ham, Richmond Upon Thames, TW10 7RS.

London Life... after lockdown

English Heritage. Eltham Palace and Gardens. English Heritage look after many historic buildings, prehistoric sites, medieval monuments, Roman forts, and country houses around the UK. Many of their sites will be back open from 4 July, and hopefully almost all the sites will be re-opened by August. Entry tickets will need to be booked in advance to be allocated a specific visiting time slot and visitor numbers will be limited. Each site will have special measures in place to adhere to social distancing.

Opening in July will be the 19 acres of magnificent gardens of Eltham Palace in South London. This is a wonderful time to visit the beautiful art deco style gardens which were formally a medieval estate and Tudor residence, full of pretty rock gardens, stunning rose gardens, herbaceous boarders, a picturesque moat and also London’s oldest working bridge. The café is open for take-away drinks and light refreshments. The Palace itself is unfortunately closed but the toilets are open. Garden ticket prices: Child tickets are from £7.50, adult tickets are from £12.50 and family tickets from £32.50. Eltham Palace and Gardens. Court Yard, London, SE9 5QE.

London Walks. As we all know walking is great exercise, and there are plenty of walkways in and around London that are all free and a great way to see the sights and famous landmarks of our capital. Visit the TFL -Transport for London website for heaps of walkway route inspiration and for maps across London. Below are just a few Absolute London favourite sight-seeing walks. www.tfl.gov.uk/modes/walking/top-walking-routes The Thames Path river walk. This infamous Thames Path river walk will take you past some of London’s most iconic landmarks on both the north and south banks of the River Thames from Hampton Court and Richmond all the way down to the Thames Barrier and the River Darent. The most central and infamous sights you will pass are Syon Park, Hampton Court Place, Kew Gardens and Chiswick Pier, Kingston Pier and Teddington Lock. The further along on the walk in central London you will spot the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, Westminster Bridge, The London Eye, and Canary Wharf, then as you walk along down the river you will pass the Tate Modern, The Globe Theatre and the Millennium Bridge. The walk then snakes its way around Borough Market, past Southwark Cathedral, by the Shard and then on towards the end of the path walkway are the sights of Erith Marshes and the Thames Barrier. The route of this 75.9-mile walk is divided in to 4 sections on both the North and South Banks of the River Thames. The signage for this popular walk is marked with the Thames Path National Trail symbol and beyond the Thames Barrier you will find the route marked with the Thames Barge symbol.

North Bank: Section 1: Hampton Court to the Albert Bridge, Section 2: The Albert Bridge to Tower Bridge, Section 3: Tower Bridge to Greenwich and Section 4: Greenwich to the East India Dock.

South Bank: Section 1: Teddington Lock to Battersea Park, Section 2: the Albert Bridge to Tower Bridge, Section 3: Tower Bridge to Thames Barrier, Section 4: Thames Barrier to River Darent.

London Loop. The London Loop is a huge circular route mapped all the way around the outskirts of London and split into 24 shorter flat or gently sloping walks from Erith station to Purfleet. Popular areas in these walks are Bushy Park, Farthing Downs, Hall Place and Hainault Forest Country Park. The Jubilee Greenway. The Jubilee Greenway is the 60km walking route created to mark the Queens Diamond Jubilee and the London Olympic Games in 2012. Just a few of the famous sights to be seen and areas to visit on this popular walkway are Kensington Place, Victoria Park, Olympic Park, Greenwich Park, HMS Belfast on the River Thames, Buckingham Palace, and Regents Park. This route is split into 10 shorter walking routes which are marked by iconic glass paving slabs. Cycling in London. Over the summer, TFL - Transport for London are planning to create more space on London streets for cyclists and pedestrians to travel around London safely while social distancing. Strategic cycling networks are being created and London town centres will be improved to help safer cycling and walking. Also, 30km of cycle lanes will be added to the existing London 160km cycle way. www.tfl.gov.uk/travel-information/improvementsand-projects/streetspace-for-london Dulwich Park. Dulwich Park, in the borough of Southwark in South London is a 30-hectare park with plenty of scenic open space, with a great cycle route, which makes it the perfect place to visit for a bike ride and a picnic. The tennis courts, cricket ground and fishing facilities are also open. Dulwich Park. College Road, London, SE21. Regents Canal. The Regents Canal cycle route offers a scenic bike ride along the Regents canal in Camden and through Regents Park. The distance is about 4.6 miles and starts in Regents Park before leading down the Regents Canal Towpath and then through London Zoo. Regents Canal. London. Charlie McBrien

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HOTEL du Vin Hotel du Vins Parisian style bistro and as Victor Hugo once said, "Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face.” My invitation to Hotel du Vin’s Parisian style bistro did exactly that. This steadfast French cuisine is capable of driving away any winter blues with their freshly baked baguettes, Moules Marinieres and classic cassoulet.

righton's sophisticated and vibrant culinary scene is ever-evolving with fresh and relevant dishes that rival any major city and it takes a winning recipe to secure a loyal following, which Hotel du Vin has succeeded to do year after year.

The distinctive du Vin brand is all about inspired French home style cooking in an elegant and unpretentious setting. Located only 100 yards from the city's famous promenade and painted in a cross between sage and Russian green, this eye catching building is a tranquil oasis amidst Brighton's hedonistic merriment. The medieval style chateau, complete with gothic style gargoyles, a cosy courtyard and divine Tudor entrance dates back to 1695. Over the years the collection of buildings has slotted together like an extraordinary jigsaw puzzle and this has created charm and character like no other. This is a unique gem in The Lanes famous conservation area of gobbled stones and history. There are 49 charming rooms with an immense bar, exposed brick work and a life sized mural of known faces over looking the main hall, as though you have been invited to an exclusive soirée.

This is a unique gem in The Lanes famous conservation area of gobbled stones and history.

As you arrive in the main reception the heavily carved opulent staircase is striking without being ostentatious, beautifully and balanced with the Du Vin’s signature chic styling. There is an eye catching Alice in Wonderland style wall of clocks in all shapes and sizes and the vibe is modern meets gothic, eccentric meets elegant - a timeless and balanced style. Arriving on a chilly Thursday evening our welcome was as warm and inviting as the surrounding décor. We were invited through to the extensive split-level lounge bar for an aperitif. Dark brown leather Chesterfield seating lined the exposed brick work walls, whilst luxurious, dusty rose, velvet chairs created a subtle grace amongst the masculine décor. At 7:30pm the bar area was vibrant with a mix of individuals and small groups. As I enjoy chatting to the mixologists, we decided to perch at the bar. The du Vin Bar boasts over 100 whiskeys as well as an extensive cocktail menu, wines and beers. Continuing with the French theme, I decided to try the French 75, one of my favourite light and refreshing cocktails. My dining companion opted for a crisp glass of Bernard Defaix Chablis. Our maître d' for the evening, Luigi, introduced himself and asked if we were ready to continue to the bistro. The restaurant is at the heart of this enchanting building and has wall to ceiling bi-folding doors. The spacious room has a central dining area in tiffany blue, enhanced by marble tables and candle light. A stunningly restored fireplace gives a warm inviting feel and the artwork has a subtle aquatic theme, in keeping with the seaside city.

HOTELdu Vin

“

It was clear that this was by far the best meal we have had in Brighton this year. A salute to the best of French cuisine in an environment both warm and welcoming, yet sophisticated and delicate."

French cuisine is renowned for bread, sauces, wines and decadent desserts which could be pegged as rather excessive on the waistline, but thanks to cunning portion size, control and a respect for the finest, freshest flavours the French are certainly not depriving or over-indulging. I suppose my love of French cuisine was launched in my early twenties when I read Mirelle Guiliano’s 'French women don't get Fat - The Secret to eating for pleasure’. Ever since, I have had an affinity with the French paradox laid out in this book. Gazing over the new seasonal menu, I decided to go all out and order with pure 'gastronomic pleasure' at the forefront of my mind instead of calorie counting. The menu caters for all with vegetarian and vegan options, salads and steaks and a whole host of traditional home style French dishes. As we named the theme of the evening as ‘Dining for Pleasure,' we decided to opt for dishes that we could share and discuss. Our charming and professional Miatre'd Luigi suggested that he would assist with appropriate wines to complement each of our courses. Luigi was unobtrusive, but completely aware of our needs. To start, we ordered the Pan seared Scallops with Cobble lane saucisson, samphire, confit garlic and seaweed butter and the soft boiled Goosnargh duck egg with asparagus and brown crab mayonnaise. This was an artful combination almost too pretty to eat and a divine culinary synthesis combining a French recipes with the Lancashire duck egg. The flavours were rich, but not complex and the type of light bite you can easily enjoy on a sunny afternoon with a glass of wine. Luigi demonstrated a passion for his role and knowledge of the food and wine that I have not witnessed in a long time. It was a joy having him look after us and before we had even ordered our main course, we both agreed that he had left an impression that would ensure our swift return to this bistro.

Moving on to the main course and fully immersing ourselves in French dining, it was clear that the best dish to share and to experience the crème de la crème of Hotel du Vin’s Bistro was the Chateaubriand. This French classic named after French aristocrat Francois-rene de Chateaubriand, whose chef invented this method of cooking a large boneless cut of beef. This pure, decadent tenderloin filet is a large portion made for sharing. The dish was completed with pomme frites, sautéed spinach, haricot verts or greens and classic béarnaise and peppercorn sauces on the side. With a cut so tender and cooked to perfection, we found ourselves avoiding the added sauces in order to fully appreciate this divine dish. Dessert was a challenge. Despite my attempt to not over indulge, the food was exceptional and this continued through to the crème brulee and tarte au citron. As the wine flowed and we continued to chat to the waiter and mairt'd it was clear to both of us that this was by far the best meal we have had in Brighton this year. A salute to the best of French cuisine in an environment both warm and welcoming, yet sophisticated and delicate. It’s good to finally find a place to escape the perpetually frenetic streets of Brighton and indulge in a laid-back French dining where the cooking is simply about layering flavours and mastering basic techniques whilst savouring every tasty morsel. Lindsay Katherine Hills www.hotelduvin.com/locations/brighton

THE

Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel Regency Relaunched

idely regarded as ‘architecturally unrivaled,’ Brighton and Hove’s magnificent seafront features a diverse plethora of outstanding buildings, ranging from the ultra-modern to the clean lines of Art Deco and the grandeur of the Regency period. Sat magnificently on the front row, with the finest views towards the theatre of the sea beyond is the Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel, a proud example of Regency finery, and now, thanks to a £3 million-pound transformation, a hugely impressive 4 star hotel that celebrates the building’s and the city’s history through exquisite design. The Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel has redecorated and redesigned all of its 116 guest rooms and communal spaces. The new look completed in mid-April and the hotel hosted a party for local press, influencers and businesses to celebrate the grand reopening on the 25th April, as well as inviting me, on behalf of Absolute Magazine to experience a stay in one of the newly appointed guest rooms. Few Brighton hotels can match the seafront location and the fantastic sea views and as I entered the hotel through the revolving doors, the sight I was greeted with was simply breathtaking. Visitors will not fail to be stunned by the dramatic changes made to one of the South’s finest listed properties. Dominated by a grand sweeping staircase that visibly winds round and round to the top of the building, the redesign of the nineteenth century hotel encapsulates the perfect blend of exquisite Regency splendor, with a dash of quirky Brighton charm. Led by a local Hove based interior designer, Helen Hooper, this listed building has had no structural changes made, but the bespoke refurbishment has introduced modern décor throughout, with elements of Brighton’s rich history seen in every room. A colour palette of inky blues and welcoming whites has transformed the lounge and reception area. The bespoke carpet is set to make waves

with visitors, as design inspiration was taken from the ripple effect of the tide going out from the sea – which is only a few yards away from the hotel’s doorstep. The lounge has been transformed into an impressive gallery showcasing the finest creations from local artists, really putting Mercure at the heart of Brighton’s buzzing art scene. Clearly proud of their setting, the staff welcome their guests with warmth and are keen to ensure their stay is as comfortable as possible, exceeding all expectations. Iain Lindsay, General Manager at Mercure Hotel Brighton Seafront commented: “The modernisation of the hotel will make the Mercure a thriving cultural hub for guests, the artwork that can be seen all around the hotel shows how proud we are to be a part of the busy Brighton community. We are so happy with how the refurbishment has gone and we are looking forward to welcoming guests, old and new, and hearing their thoughts on our new look hotel.” Check in was swift but attentive, with the team happy to make local recommendations, take bookings for the restaurant, arrange your morning newspaper and book you taxis. A lift is available to assist with those heavy cases but I decided to take the atmospheric and majestic staircase, leading me up to where the three floors of bedrooms have been transformed, brimming with charm and providing an ode to the era, whilst modern finishes bring all the creature comforts for a memorable stay. The bedrooms are spacious, comfortable and calming - a serene retreat away from the buzzing beachfront. The décor takes inspiration from Brighton’s infamous beach, with seaside imagery and textiles adorning the newly refurbished bedrooms, celebrating the quirky history of the surrounding area. The new throws, curtains, carpets and bespoke furnishings provide a fresh and modern look, whilst my bathroom took more of a nod to the traditional side of the hotel. The comfortable beds, and rustic effect furnishings come together to celebrate the old and new.

With such an idyllic location and inspired by the grandeur of the ballroom, it’s clear to see that The Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel is one of the most desirable wedding reception venues Brighton has to offer.

Mercure Brighton

Taste buds tingle with diners being able to choose from many delicious options Check in was swift but attentive, with the team happy to make local recommendations, take bookings for the restaurant, arrange your morning newspaper and book you taxis. A lift is available to assist with those heavy cases but I decided to take the atmospheric and majestic staircase, leading me up to where the three floors of bedrooms have been transformed, brimming with charm and providing an ode to the era, whilst modern finishes bring all the creature comforts for a memorable stay. The bedrooms are spacious, comfortable and calming - a serene retreat away from the buzzing beachfront. The décor takes inspiration from Brighton’s infamous beach, with seaside imagery and textiles adorning the newly refurbished bedrooms, celebrating the quirky history of the surrounding area. The new throws, curtains, carpets and bespoke furnishings provide a fresh and modern look, whilst my bathroom took more of a nod to the traditional side of the hotel. The comfortable beds, and rustic effect furnishings come together to celebrate the old and new. Rooms at the Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel come in three different categories. Firstly there are the Classic Bedrooms which all offer supremely comfortable beds, HD TVs, complimentary high speed WiFi, en suite bathrooms, hairdryer and tea/ coffee making facilities. The Privilege Rooms are upgraded bedrooms which sleep two people, with a handful offering sea views and others located within the brand new Mews. As well as offering all the creature comforts that the classic rooms offer, the 16 sea view rooms have been updated with a plush grey silk effect décor, beautiful glass and brass chandeliers and antique mirror glass on the desk and bedside tables. If you are looking to really push the boat out, then the Superior Bedroom is the best in the hotel, with sea views and balcony. Featuring a spacious room complete with HD TV, complimentary high speed WiFi, Nespresso coffee machine, robe and slippers, this is the perfect luxury seaside retreat. If you can pull yourself away from the comfort of your bedroom, then be sure to take a trip down to the ground floor and visit the Goulty Restaurant which, following its full refurbishment, is unrecognisable with splashes of jewel colours sapphire, emerald, and amber adorning the walls. Comfortable and plush seating provides the perfect perch to gaze out to sea through the vast windows that provide exquisite seaside views. It’s not just the furnishings that have been given an update, a new food and drink menu has launched that reflects the culinary delights that can be locally sourced in and around Brighton. Taste buds tingle with diners being able to choose from many delicious options on the menu from the Chef’s signature locally caught beer battered fish and chips, to the Brighton Deli Burger, made with Sussex Cheddar – for those with a sweet tooth finishing up with the signature Brighton Rock Knickerbocker Glory.

Take a stroll across to the other side fo the hotel and you’ll find the modern and sophisticated Norfolk Hotel cocktail bar whose bar front is the new home to pieces from the iconic West Pier, which were salvaged from the fire that destroyed it almost two decades ago. The bar offers a fine selection of white, rose and red wine from around the world, as well as a choice of Champagne & sparkles to enjoy in the stylish surroundings of the newly renovated NH Bar. Relax before or after your meal, soak up the tranquil atmosphere or use it as the perfect place to meet friends. After a peaceful night’s slumber, I found the perfect start to my day in the decadent setting of the building’s original ballroom, where I enjoyed a delicious continental breakfast of pastries, cereals, ham and cheeses. Also on offer is a delicious traditional breakfast including a selection of egg, back bacon, Cumberland sausage, black pudding, vegetarian sausage, sautéed mushrooms, grilled tomato, fried bread and baked beans. With such an idyllic location and inspired by the grandeur of the ballroom, it’s clear to see that The Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel is one of the most desirable wedding reception venues Brighton has to offer. Pose for photos or get married on the Bandstand with the sea sparkling in the background. Impress your guests with the Regency splendor of ceiling height mirrors and chandeliers in The Ballroom. Couples can choose from the elegant Ballroom which caters for parties from 40 to 180 guests, or take in the modern décor of our West Pier Suite. The process all starts by getting in touch with the hotel Wedding Planner. They’ll give you a tour of the hotel and find out about the kind of day you have in mind, covering every aspect from drinks to décor, food to favours, and any special touches or themes you’d like featured. They’ll also suggest ideas if you can’t decide. Most importantly they can take as much responsibility for your celebration as you like, ensuring everything runs smoothly and working hard to guarantee a day of magic and pure enjoyment. The Coast View Suite provides a sea view backdrop for weddings and private events of all types. The iconic Bandstand is directly opposite the hotel and can be booked for weddings. Guests arriving on business will also be pleased to find a number of meeting rooms, making it the obvious choice for business in Brighton. Just across the road from the promenade, the Mecure Brighton Seafront hotel is just a mile from Brighton railway station, with regular services to London Victoria, Gatwick Airport and England’s Beautiful South Downs. The A23 is less than a mile away. The Mercure Seafront Brighton Hotel offers a dynamic pricing module with room rates starting from £129. For further information please visit: www.mercurebrighton.co.uk/

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9 GRAND JCT RD | BRIGHTON | BN1 1PP (60 yards from Palace Pier)

☎ 01273 326 514

www.pier ninebrighton.co.uk @pier nine @pier nine (over 18s only) Image by David Freeman Photography

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Bailiffscourt Hotel and Spa Both a rural and beachside escape, Bailiffscourt Hotel and Spa is enchanting and opulent, exuding excellence on every level.

et within 30 acres of private parkland and neighbouring the charms of Climping beach, this stunning and historic hotel features a medieval-style house, thatched houses and cottages, a 13th century chapel, a romantic inner rose-clad courtyard and an intriguing underground passageway. Surrounded by a picture book rose garden and boasting an exquisite spa with both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a croquet lawn and tennis courts, this is where guests can get away from it all, in their luxurious home from home. As you approach the entrance gates and journey up the impressive and welcoming drive towards the medieval main house, you can feel the history and stories of the past in the air. The whole team at Bailiffscourt take pride in being proud custodians of an estate that has welcomed visitors for decades before them, stewarding the building and upholding its ethos and traditions. When it comes to the history of their surroundings, the staff are very well versed and are happy to lead guests through the fascinating accounts and features. With all the appearance of an ancient manor house, Bailiffscourt's best-kept secret is that until 1927 it didn't exist. It was designed for Lord Moyne, then Walter Guinness of the brewing family, by the antiquarian and architect, Amyas Phillips. His brief was to recreate a house in the medieval style, which was favoured by Lord Moyne's wife Evelyn. Phillips searched the country for original stone, woodwork, doors, windows and fireplaces, bringing them all together at Climping to create the exquisite country house and park that we see today. Bailiffscourt played host to the high society of the day throughout the 1930s, until the death of Lady Moyne in 1939, and in 1948 it became a privately owned hotel and in 1993 Historic Sussex Hotels bought and lovingly restored to be the Bailiffscourt guests see today. My friends and family have for years spoken about Bailiffscourt with such high regard and awe, having visited for weddings, relaxing spa visits, and romantic special occasions. So you can imagine that when I was invited to bring my family for a weekend staycations, I felt a mixture of excitement, honour and later, panic. I’d only ever imagined going there on a romantic break and hadn’t considered a visit with two toddlers in tow! Calmed slightly by the fact we were going to experience the specifically designed Family Sussex Staycation package, I surprised my husband with the news and set about packing our overnight bags. The Sussex Staycation package stars from £355 and invites families to discover all that West Sussex has to offer from cultural encounters to award-winning vineyards and return to Bailiffscourt for some calm, a quiet moment in the spa or roam free and explore the 30 acres of private parkland with a wander down to the beach. For the more energetic little visitors, there is plenty on offer from croquet to quoits and tennis to tumbletowers, before enjoying a delicious dinner from the 3 course ‘Climping Menu’ and settling in for a deeply luxurious night’s sleep.

Bailiffscourt is truly a family friendly hotel and as soon as we arrived, the team took every care to ensure our little ladies were as looked after as we were.

Bailiffscourt is truly a family friendly hotel and as soon as we arrived, the team took every care to ensure our little ladies were as looked after as we were. Check in was friendly and efficient and we were delighted to discover we would be staying in one of the very finest rooms on the estate; Baylies. This is the ultimate room for a celebratory or romantic getaway and is now increasingly popular with families, like ourselves, looking to spend time together. Baylies is on the first floor of the Medieval House with dual-aspect views over the rose garden and across the grounds and simply has to be seen to be believed. With its vaulted ceiling, glowing wood-burning stove and a four-poster bed that takes pride of place in the centre of the room, this incredibly spacious signature room certainly has the wow factor and allows it’s guests to feel like royalty. Enthralled with the vast room, our daughters immediately started toddling and crawling around, exploring every nook and cranny. A well-sized cot and child’s bed had been set up for them and they delighted in finding towels upon their beds, that had been crafted in elephant shapes and sat together with a welcome the signed from ‘Nellie’. Each of us had our very own fluffy dressing gown and as we wandered into the bathroom, we discovered a large walk-in shower and twin roll-top baths (which caused huge excitement at the girl’s bath time!)

Bailiffscourt Hotel and Spa

Small and meaningful gestures, coupled with attention really set Bailiffscourt apart from other hotels; every guest is presented with a beautiful map that details the estate grounds, babies have hooded baby towels provided, each room comes equipped with a list of DVDs which you can borrow from reception, the tea facilities are enhanced by the presence of a very healthy supply of probably the best shortbread I have ever tasted and the numerous lounges are equipped with board games galore, a library’s worth of storybooks and crayons and colouring-in. With a total of 39 beautiful bedrooms, set within a series of charming houses and cottages dotted around private parkland, Bailiffscourt has something to offer every taste. Guests can choose from medieval-style rooms, to a more modern affair with contemporary design. The Medieval House is connected to the Thatch House by an underground passageway. The Court and Coach Houses stand opposite the main entrance, while the Gate House and the newer rooms in the Moat House and The Oaks stand beside the old moat overlooking the fields beyond. All rooms are individually decorated using beautiful fabrics and filled with antiques and art, whilst also offering the modern essentials such as satellite TV and complimentary WiFi. The unusual room names are taken from the fields surrounding the hotel dating back to 1610 and each room varies in size. For families, there are lots of options depending on the age of your children and the size of your family. You can either share - many of the rooms have sofa beds or ample space for extra beds, you can book an entire house or cottage or simply choose adjacent or interconnecting rooms. Upon booking, you will be asked how you will be most comfortable and a recommendation will be given as to the best fit for you and your family. Before long, it was nap time for the girls and whilst ‘Papa’ read the paper by the roaring wood burning stove, it was time for me to go out of my comfort zone entirely and head over to the spa. I know that sounds a little crazy but I’m just not the pampering type. I’m a busy and probably rather highly strung working mummy that finds it very hard or indeed impossible to relax. My husband had encouraged me to take up the offer of a complimentary massage at the spa (my first ever) and so I agreed and pondered at what a challenge it would be for the masseuse to crack this stubborn ice queen. That said, if they were successful, it would certainly be a testament to their skill. Highly regarded as one of the most beautiful spas in the south of England, the Spa takes its inspiration from nature, offering tranquility and indulgence. Built in the style of a Sussex barn with dramatic exposed timber frame, the spa has received prestigious design awards, artfully contrasting the textures of polished limestone and natural green oak. You cannot fail to be impressed as you enter through the glass doors, into the vast reception area. I’m not sure how it happened, but as soon as I arrived, it was like something said to my body ‘….and relax’. Was it the calming scent in the air, the soothing music or the sheer beauty of the venue? Perhaps it was the perfect blend of all those elements. As soon as I arrived, the lady at the desk provided me with a locker key and I immediately felt at ease as I discovered a robe and flip flops waiting for me. I then had to fill in a form that, aside from the usual personal details, asked questions such as ‘how intense would you like your massage?’ and ‘would you like your masseuse to be conversational or quiet.’ I have to say I think that is a great idea as it avoids those potentially awkward conversations.

The restaurant at Bailiffscourt has a wide spread reputation for being exceptional I am still in shock, but I have to admit that I absolutely loved the half an hour that followed. Bailiffscourt Spa have managed to create an environment that makes you feel comfortable, calm and totally carefree. The massage led me to drift away from the stresses and strains of the every day and for 30 minutes, I was just happily existing. Not planning my next work assignment, or the lunchboxes for the week ahead. Not awkwardly flinching (as I pessimistically predicted) as my shoulders and back were worked upon. Just totally and utterly relaxing. It’s not surprising to learn that Bailiffscourt Spa has been awarded The Good Spa Guide’s 5 Bubble Rating. They have an impressive choice of treatments on offer designed to relax, de-stress, revitalise and restore. It is advertised that their highly skilled therapists ‘ensure total care of your body, mind and spirit’ and this once Doubting Thomas can certainly vouch for that . Aside from treatments and therapies, the spa boasts a heated outdoor and indoor infinity swimming pool all surrounded by sun loungers with expansive windows bringing the outdoors into the beautiful indoor pool area. A gloriously bubbly hot tub also awaits, as well as the spa bath, steam room and sauna. Enhance your experience with a moment of calm in the specially designed relaxation rooms, while away the time in the Sandpiper Lounge (a light-filled space with a balcony overlooking the outdoor pool towards the sea) or get physical in the gym and fitness studio featuring state of the art equipment, personal trainers and a range of classes including yoga and Pilates. During my lone visit to the spa, I learnt that there were specific family swimming times, from 10 till 11 am and 3:30 till 5 pm every day. Although slightly limiting, it is rather settling to know that all guests are aware that these are family swimming times, allowing you to feel comfortable and not disruptive when your children are splashing around! I returned the next morning with the whole family and, as well as being made to feel very welcome, my little fish enjoyed themselves immensely, aided by the excellent selection of floats and swimming aids made available for children. The restaurant at Bailiffscourt has a wide spread reputation for being exceptional and so we all arrived to dinner dressed in our finest and with very high expectations. We had been assured that despite being a relatively formal setting, the restaurant was family friendly and we would all be very welcome to take dinner at 7pm. Children are welcomed in the restaurant, where you can dine comfortably as a family, or the other options would have been, for those that can’t last until dinner, to have snacks and light meals served in the lounge earlier, order room service or have a picnic arranged by the team to take to the beach. With its medieval architecture, mullioned windows and tapestryhung walls the restaurant is a stunning setting and upon arriving, we were settled at a table that had a high chair all ready and waiting for us. The little ladies had half portions of the ‘Light menu’ and my husband and I were treated to the 3 course Climping Menu, which changes throughout the year and is a wonderful showcase on a plate, highlighting the exceptional talent of the Chefs. Bailiffscourt use quality, locally sourced ingredients from Sussex throughout the menus and have great relationships with local suppliers, some of whom they have been working with for many years. The suppliers know exactly what want and they deliver excellent produce every time, ensuring that the high standards set are continuously delivered - it is a team effort, from field (or sea) to fork.

The Climping menu highlights the fine produce available throughout Sussex, creating a mouthwatering menu, mixing innovation and tradition, echoing the ethos of the hotel. Lured by the promise of Selsey lobster, we both opted for the Lobster Soup, accompanied by Aioli, gruyère cheese and croûtes. The soup was warming, indulgently rich, bursting with flavours of the sea and the accompaniments added vitality. For mains, I decided on the Grilled fillet of salmon with salsa verde, samphire, celeriac purée and lobster cream sauce and my husband chose the Roasted cornfed chicken supreme, creamed potato, morel mushroom cream sauce, spring greens and port jus. Every ingredient had noticeably been sourced and selected for its quality and vibrant flavour. The salmon melted in the mouth, the chicken was moist and succulent, the spring greens sung with freshness and both the creamed potato and celeriac purée were perfectly smooth, silky and now my ultimate goal when I make mash at home. The waiting staff were courteous and incredibly patient and friendly towards our super young diners. Although rather well accustomed now to restaurant visits, all in the name of mummy’s work, they do like to keep the waiters on their toes with the ‘drop and retrieve the serviette game’ and their high expectations regarding speed of serving the dessert course. We now have a tactic of ordering their mains whilst we enjoy our starters, their desserts whilst we have mains and then ordering our desserts up to our room, to be enjoyed once the girls have settled in their beds. The waiting team happily obliged, entertained the girls and made us feel both relaxed and at ease. It isn’t just the restaurant at Bailiffscourt that is set aside for feasting and indulging. The series of lounges around the inner courtyard are unique and endlessly appealing for a glass of wine, afternoon tea or simply to sit a while and read the papers. When the sun shines, be sure to take a moment to venture outside into the charming courtyard or rose garden. Afternoon Tea is served between 3.30pm and 5.30pm and from 4pm on a Sunday. I recommend booking in advance as it’s extremely popular! Situated just 25 minutes drive from the charms of Chichester and just 10 minutes from picturesque Arundel, Bailiffscourt is a perfect marriage of relaxation and adventure, luxury and home comforts and history and innovation. Few hotels and restaurants are truly ‘family-friendly,’ but Bailiffscourt has created the perfect formula for ensuring every family member is catered for, recognising that if your children are happy and relaxed, then you, and even I am too.

SPAin Sussex

It may just be the one night, but we guarantee you will feel like a new person when you come out the other side.

s we get back into the swing of things and say goodbye to the chaos of Christmas, it’s a good opportunity to take time to reflect, plan our year ahead, focus on our well-being and invest in a bit of ‘me time’. It’s often hard to actually find the time to switch off and relax in our manic daily lives, with work deadlines, chores around the house, school runs and family engagements often taking centre stage. Short of locking ourselves away in a cupboard, the concept of getting a little headspace is, for most, just a fantasy. However, the answer to this conundrum is right on our doorstep; clear your diary, turn your phone off and make your way to one of Sussex’s blissful spa hotels for an overnight stay. It may just be the one night, but we guarantee you will feel like a new person when you come out the other side. In a bid to relieve you of the chore of scrolling through endless reviews online, Victoria Marie Emerson, our Editor here at Absolute Magazine, has taken it upon herself to carry out essential research for you, bringing you her two top spa hotel choices for 2020. Enjoy….(she certainly did!)

Ockenden Manor Hotel & Spa, Cuckfield In a nutshell An enchanting Elizabethan manor house with 28 opulent rooms, Ockenden Manor proudly boasts an outstanding spa, an award-winning restaurant and eight acres of beautiful grounds overlooking Cuckfield Park. Hotel With its history and character, elegant sitting room warmed by a roaring log fire and cosy, wood-panelled bar, Ockenden Manor is a wonderful place to escape to and is less than 30 minutes from Brighton. Set in the chocolate box village of Cuckfield, with its cornucopia of enticing independent shops and cafes, a genuine and warm welcome awaits you as you arrive at the hotel, which has a comforting and charming family-run feel.

The Rooms Each of the 28 rooms are set within two houses, that sit proudly within nine acres of gardens. Every room has its own character and identity at Ockenden Manor, all woven together in a maze of intriguing little corridors, nooks and crannies. From the fabulous over-sized contemporary spa suites with roof terraces to the charming period suites and elegant, individually decorated rooms, there is something to suit all tastes. As unique as the hotel itself, our room was referred to as a ‘feature room’ and oozed romance and style. With a four-poster bed, exposed beams, antique furniture, vintage style patterned wallpaper, thick and luxurious curtains framing sweeping views over the gardens, all the mod cons you’d require, plus a large bathroom with walk-in shower, the room felt like a timeless escape from the modern and manic world.

The Restaurant The jewel in the hotel’s crown, the Restaurant at Ockenden Manor is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, mid-morning coffee or a full afternoon tea. Led by award-winning Head Chef, Stephen Crane, the Restaurant is without doubt one of the finest in Sussex, serving exceptional dishes that showcase the very best of Sussex produce. High ceilings and original features, lavish chandeliers and an open fireplace blend harmoniously with the décor’s warm colour palette, with crisp white table clothes and fresh flowers on every table bringing bright accents. This is a truly beautiful space with far-reaching views over Cuckfield Park. We sampled the ‘Sussex Menu’ which changes seasonally and features classic dishes such as Balcombe Estate Crispy Wild Duck Breast with Braised Cabbage, Broccoli and Almonds in an Orange Sauce and an Oat Crème Brulee with a Warm Chocolate Emulsion and Whiskey Ice Cream. To complement the fantastic locally-sourced food, Ockenden Manor is proud to serve 27 local wines, from the various local wineries in the surrounding area, including those of Ridgeview Estate, Albourne Estate, Tinwood Estate, Bolney Estate, Wiston Estate, Bluebell Vineyard and Nyetimber Estate. The Spa Modern in design but sitting harmoniously within the glorious nature of the Sussex countryside, the Spa at Ockenden Manor is a tranquil haven away from the daily grind. The overall feel is airy, cool and calm, with rooms overlooking the fields and the South Downs, all flooded with natural daylight.

Open to hotel guests and spa members, the spa’s star attraction is the expansive swimming pool that is half inside, half outside, with guests accessing the outdoor side of the pool by swimming through a door in the glass wall. Sun loungers and cosy sofas surround both sides of the pool, as well as both an indoor spa bath and outdoor hot tub, plus a walkthrough warm rain shower which is incredibly refreshing.

Eight luxurious treatment rooms, plus relaxation rooms and spaces all feature nature-inspired and calming décor and a fully equipped gym and fitness studio offer a broad timetable of classes. For those who seek ultimate rest, I’d recommend a visit to the on site Isopod, a floatation tank where saltwater suspends the body effortlessly for total muscle relaxation. The Spa at Ockenden partners with Elemental Herbology, a luxury skincare range which combines natural botanicals with innovative technology to bring ultimate indulgence and well being to your skin, and these products are used throughout the extensive list of treatments available. I can personally recommend the Ho Leaf and Rosemary Muscle Melt treatment for anyone who suffers from stress and tense muscles. Available at both 60 and 90 minute durations, this full body massage successfully relieves pent up tension within your muscles, enhancing circulation, very nearly sending you into a serene slumber! With a lounge serving refreshing smoothies, drinks and healthy bites, plus Ridgeview Sparkling Wine ready and waiting for those who fancy a celebratory tipple, visitors can spend a whole day indulging in pure relaxation and escapism.

SPAin Sussex The Crowd Although calm and restful, the atmosphere at Ockenden Manor also sings with excitement and occasion. There is an unmistakable feeling of positivity in the air. Guests are all visiting for a slice of indulgence, whether they are celebrating a special occasion, escaping it all, on a romantic getaway or seeking to spend some quality family time together. During our visit, the hotel was alive with romantic couples, family reunions, sophisticated girly groups, including many mother and daughter combos. The Special Touches This is what sets Historic Hotels, the owners of the hotel, apart from the competition. It’s those little extras that places Ockenden Manor on the map. The fluffy dressing gowns, homemade biscuits, Temple Spa products, eclectic furnishings and charming vintage style tea sets in each room cannot fail to make you smile and feel at home. The Deal

Ockenden Manor offers several packages throughout the year, including overnight hotel stays with breakfast, dinner, voucher towards a treatment and spa access from £299 per person. Day trippers can enjoy a ‘Fabulous Friday’ with a spa treatment, a delicious three-course lunch, glass of Sussex sparkling wine in the hotel, and full use of the spa facilities from £165. Be sure to visit the website for the latest offers, prices and packages. www.hshotels.co.uk

South Lodge Hotel & Spa In a nutshell South Lodge is an outstanding historic hotel in Sussex, offering the finest accommodation, cuisine and relaxation. Truly deserving of every one of its five stars (and more!), the hotel allows guests to escape and enjoy the luxury of the finer things in life, whilst celebrating the beauty of those that come free. With breathtaking views of the South Downs, award-winning dining, majestic rooms and the most amazing state-of-the-art spa, South Lodge has to be seen to be believed.

Hotel Elevated upon the rolling Sussex countryside, South Lodge Hotel is located just outside of Horsham and is a vast and magnificent Victorian country house, surrounded by 93 acres of opulent gardens and parkland overlooking the South Downs. As you pull into the impressive hotel grounds, you cannot fail but be impressed by the sheer scale and character of the building. The sweeping drive is surrounded by immaculate gardens and it is this attention to detail that sets the tone for the entire stay.

As I entered into the grand reception area, we were warmly greeted by the South Lodge front of house team, with offers of assistance and a speedy check in process. As the weight of our luggage was lifted from our backs, so too was the weight of the world outside. This is a haven away from the daily grind, where luxury awaits around every corner of the impressive and maze of opulence within. The décor is traditional and timeless, with fresh and modern accents. The history of the building itself is celebrated with artefacts that adorn the walls throughout, whilst contemporary additions such as the 3-AA Rosette restaurant ‘The Pass’ brings this once family home into the 21st century.

The Rooms South Lodge boasts 89 individually styled and designed rooms and suites, all with their own character, but all linked by the common theme of fusing the past and present. With a huge range of accommodation options to choose from, South Lodge pride themselves on going above and beyond to provide flawless attention to detail and homely charm in bucket loads, plus of course the most spectacular views over the South Downs.

No matter which room you chose, you can rest assured that every bedroom has ultra comfortable handmade mattresses, hand-finished duvets and even a pillow menu. Our family suite, named West Dean, was simply divine, with an expansive bedroom area, huge windows that framed the countryside beyond, traditional and cosy furnishings, plump cushions, luxe heavy curtains and a very impressive bathroom that featured a shower that could house a whole polo team, a TV for use in the bath, a double vanity and indulgent beauty products from South Lodge’s own brand ‘The Spa.’ The Restaurant Widely regarded as the ultimate dining experience in Sussex, Tom Kemble at The Pass is South Lodge’s premier dining hot spot. Unlike many onsite country house hotel restaurants, this multi award-winning exterior is modern and as innovative in décor as it is in cuisine. When we first arrive, it is immediately apparent how the restaurant got its name. Propped up on high stalls, guests are quite literally dining at the pass of the restaurant, right next to the action of the kitchen beyond. Making for a very transparent experience, not only are all ingredient traceable from farm to fork, but diners are able to watch the team of highly skilled chefs craft their meal effort their very eyes. One would assume that being sat next to the kitchen, the atmosphere could at times get rather chaotic, but in contrast, what diners actually witness is a kitchen run with precision, calmness and masterful focus. With space for just 28 lucky diners, The Pass offers an intimate experience, with a six course tasting menu which changes with the seasons. Looking around the room, it’s clear that every guest is on the edge of their seat, not only literally, but also with suspense. With so many ingenious dishes and interesting ingredients on the menu, there is an atmosphere of excitement and expectation.

Our culinary journey at The Pass begins with some canapés and an enthusiast welcome by the serving staff. The team are all experts at their roles, with an unfaltering knowledge and pride in the dishes they are serving their guests. As the first course of Delica pumpkin veloute, bay leaf and sage Chantilly and pumpkin seed praline arrives, we know we are in for a meal to remember. Every dish sings with flavour, is presented like a fine work of art and leaves the diner savouring every mouthful. Satisfying every taste, you’ll find huge variety within the tasting menu, with dishes such as Maitake mushroom risotto with 36 month aged parmesan and bitter leaves offering an earthy yet homely and warming experience and 50 day aged beef served with cevenness onion, pomme paillasson and black winter truffle offering carnivores pure rural indulgence.

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For a more traditional option, South Lodge also offers guests the two AA Rosette winning Camellia restaurant where you’ll be served breakfast and come lunch and dinner time, mouthwatering dishes are on offer, all made with skill and flair. Using fresh vegetables from the hotel’s walled kitchen garden and the finest local Sussex ingredients, it has its own unique style in creating balanced, contemporary interpretations of traditional seasonal dishes.

“Brighton’s Best Roast”

SPAin Sussex

The Spa The Spa at South Lodge recently opened in the spring of 2019, having cost 15 millions pounds to build and is quite simply outstanding in design and offering . This is a place to meet, workout, relax and eat, making it a hub of mindful activity and so much more than just a hotel spa.

Sat within the pristine grounds of the hotel, The Spa at South Lodge is designed to blend harmoniously with the rolling countryside that surrounds it, with its roof following the natural contours of the land. Surrounded by wildlife, nature and peace, the 44,000 sq. ft. Spa champions and embraces the estate’s landscape, with both the external and internal design celebrating natural beauty, with a calming colour palette of pale blues, beiges and greens used across all walls, artwork and soft furnishings. This is an expansive, bright and inspiring setting that sees wall to floor windows bringing the outside in and producing a feeling of relaxation, harmony and peacefulness.

Guests to the hotel are offered full use of the spa facilities, including the inside and outside swimming pools, thermal spa areas, state-of-the-art gym and even attendance to the full schedule of fitness classes. As with the hotel, luxury is at the forefront of the offering at The Spa, with expansive changing areas being complemented with the very best in grooming equipment, including Dyson Supersonic™ hair dryers and Paul Mitchell hair straighteners. Elsewhere, the Ridgeview Beauty Bar offers manicure and pedicure treatments using Jessica products, a premium experience at high street prices – a one stop shop for all hotel guests and non-residents. When it comes to treatments at The Spa, you’ll find a whole variety of options available, ranging from signature massages, to glorious facials, reflexology and special spa day packages which allow the visitor to experience a combination of techniques designed to offer ultimate relaxation. Each treatment room is designed to encourage deep relaxation, whilst heat, light and sound mood pods are also available, as well as relaxation rooms for post-treatment chilling. A variety of thermal experiences are on offer, including a private mud room and infused sauna, as well as marble-lined salt steam and jasmine herbal steam rooms.

The piece de résistance of this spa has to be the trio of swimming pools, each offering a very different experience. Inside you will find a pristine 22m x10m indoor infinity edge UV treated pool, ideal for leisurely lengths whilst gazing out of the window paned walls, whilst outside, lounge chairs lead the way to a vitality hydrotherapy pool and beyond, The Spa boasts a serene heated wild swimming pool (complete with pond life!), with an attractive wooden bathing platform inviting guests to take a revitalising dip.

This is a luxurious haven of relaxation and indulgence for the rich and famous, the romantic couple, the gaggle of girls looking for some luxe pampering, the family reunion A trip to the Spa can be turned into a full day experience thanks to the popular Botanica restaurant, where healthy and innovative dishes, snacks and drinks can be enjoyed inside or on the outside terrace, whilst light bites, drinks and ice creams are available at poolside spot, The Watershed. A focus on plant-based, vegan and alternative foods is a passion for head chef Jonathan Spiers, who draws on the South Downs as a larder for fresh and seasonal ingredients. The Mediterranean-inspired recipes are a real talking point for members who gather daily to refuel over brunch, lunch or dinner. The Crowd This is a luxurious haven of relaxation and indulgence for the rich and famous, the romantic couple, the gaggle of girls looking for some luxe pampering, the family reunion and the sports star visiting Sussex. Wherever you look, there is a relaxed sense of occasion, a toast being raised and a memory being made. The Special Touches It is hard to pinpoint the special touches at South Lodge, purely because every aspect of this hotel and spa is outstanding, thoughtful, expertly presented and pure luxury.

The Deal Overnight stays are from £160 per person with breakfast/ brunch (based on two sharing). Annual membership at The Spa at South Lodge is from £2000 per person and spa days are from £145 per person. Be sure to visit the website for the latest offers, prices and packages. www.exclusive.co.uk

Escape to the majestic

DARWIN FOREST

in Derbyshire Peak District, Now reopened

he British summer is not famed for its blistering sunshine and consistency, but regardless of whatever hand we are dealt with, each setting embellishes the Darwin Forest in a unique and beautiful way. In the era of COVID, we know that activities and socialising outdoors are far safer. So why not utilise a safe, sociable and soothing environment at a time when we need to decompress the most? The Derbyshire Peak District is rich with sights to explore and is located in the very heart of England. Darwin Forest is owned by Pinelodge Holidays; a family business that also owns Sandybrook Country Park. Both locations are rated 5 stars and have consistently been voted as one of the UK’s top holiday parks. Darwin Forest even bagged a finalist position in the Visit England Awards. And though both lodges are under the same ownership, they have two distinct identities. They are the gateway to discovering the wondrous surrounding area. As a result of lockdown life, people are split between feeling overwhelming amounts of restlessness or feel a real need to decompress in this tumultuous time. With tranquil settings for a romantic or grounding atmosphere or exciting adventure opportunities for those who are itching to get active again, the range of activities and ways to be wonderfully inactive are unrivalled. This remarkable place is in between Matlock and Bakewell. It is known for its catering to inter-generational activities and facilities, with something for all ages to ensure all members of the clan can enjoy time with one and other.

Most importantly during the COVID era, there is a concerted effort from Darwin Forest to keep these lodges as safe and sanitary as possible. Though always operating a 5 star cleaning regimen, this has been updated to ensure Darwin Forest is Covid proof. Pinelodge truly has something for every individual, every occasion and has a wide variety of price ranges to cater to those looking for something on the lax or the luxe side. Suites range from Classic, Classic Vogue, Elite or Elite Vogue with additional more exclusive lodges to be found within the Glade and the Meadow. Even our furry friends are welcomed with open arms, with special lodges available for dogs named The Coppice. No exception to their counterparts, they are exquisitely furnished, some even including hot tubs. Most importantly during the COVID era, there is a concerted effort from Darwin Forest to keep these lodges as safe and sanitary as possible. Though always operating a 5 star cleaning regimen, this has been updated to ensure Darwin Forest is Covid proof. Not only are all lodges being throughly cleaned before reopening, new additions to their cleaning policy include providing leading cleaning products to guests in each lodge, giving an official certification of cleanliness to each residence called the “Clean + stamp”, and a removal of certain non essential items such as board games, cushions and certain crockery. More details on their “Covid safety processes” can be found on their website. Dogs are treated as divas and are pampered to perfection; with doggie showers, hairdryers and even their own ‘bedroom’. It ain’t too shabby for their two legged friends either. The Coppice offers a chic living space with a wine cooler, coffee machine, dishwasher and washing machine; that’s not to mention the Smart TV and opulent leather sofas. The master bedroom comes complete with a Kingsize bed and ensuite shower room, while the twin bedrooms have TVs and a shared family bathroom.

Escape to the majestic

DARWIN FOREST

All lodges have exceptional furnishing with a veranda, outdoor furniture perfect for dining al fresco and self catering accommodation. 1 to 4 bedroom lodges are available to cater to families of many sizes. The finest lodges available are found in two particular places in Darwin Forest. The Meadow is one of the crown jewels of the establishment; boasting three exclusive and elegant lodges. Each lodge has its own personality, with exceptional contemporary design, impeccable furnishing and luxe bathrooms. However the highlight for some may be the fact it is situated in a quiet meadow next to mature woodland. The Glade, its sibling, hosts even more impressive luxury lodges. The Glade is as glamorous as it is grounding; featuring noteworthy bedrooms and remarkable bathrooms. Just like the other lodges available, they too have beautiful outdoor furniture and

all lodges in The Meadow and The Glade come with hot tubs. The area is laden with activities for when you simply *have* to pull yourself off that gorgeous leather couch. Unfortunately, activities have been restricted to adhere to social distancing guidelines including ‘Evolution Health & Fitness’. For those who visit after social distancing has ended, it has everything one needs whether you’re looking for an intense workout or an intense chill out. You can find a swimming pool, gymnasium, and make your way to the beauty therapy and massage suites after your killer workout. For the kids, Little Monkeys is a play centre to keep your little ones occupied for a few hours while you take some much needed you time. For the teens, the Activity Den is the perfect spot with pool tables, table tennis, arcade games and air hockey.

For the kids, Little Monkeys is a play centre to keep your little ones occupied for a few hours while you take some much needed you time.

Escape to the majestic

DARWIN FOREST

There are a large still a range of activities available with social distancing and Covid measures incorporated. If you’re looking for an outing to fit the whole family during the COVID era, you can take part in instructor led activities such as archery and body zorbing. Guest led activities available include tennis, mini golf and an array of woodland walks and cycling trails. Though all lodges are self-catering and come with stellar kitchens, no worry if you’re not keen to cook after your spa day. Foresters bar and restaurant is there to save the day, or Explorers café if you’re only after a light bite. Both are still open during this time. If you’re not feeling very Nigella but still want to take advantage of the al fresco veranda chez vous, you can take your food from Foresters to go; cooked with the finest local produce and freshest ingredients. Just outside the holiday park you’ll find a whole host of quaint market towns such as Ashbourne, Bakewell and Chesterfield which are easily accessible. Though they all host extraordinary seasonal markets, Bakewell is one to visit in particular as it’s known as the birthplace of the tart. Make sure to pay a visit to the Original Bakewell Pudding Shop! Your tastebuds will thank me kindly. An array of picturesque villages can be found in the Peak District. These villages are home to some dreamy and delightful tea rooms and authentic country pubs. The most wonderful aspect of visiting the district is that these villages are often connected by footpaths and cycling trails which in themselves are an adventure. The local area has a heap of family attractions and stately homes to visit. But for those who are feeling their inner Lara Croft, you can take a cable car above the Derwent Valley and explore the underground caverns or just behold the breathtaking views. If you’re a museum buff, the Crich Tramway is the perfect place. Reopening on July 11th, the museum showcases over 80 trams built in the 1800’s and is set within a period village containing a cafe, a pub, an old style sweetshop and tram depots. The museum’s collection of trams are found laden throughout the village setting with visitors transported to the past. For those looking for something that will leave you on the edge of your seat, quite literally, the one and only Alton Towers is just 10 miles away with a multitude of rides to fulfil your inner dare devil. Note that you will have to pre book at this time. Alternatively, Gulliver’s Kingdom can be found in Matlock Bath and is a great alternative for younger children. Social distancing measures have also been implemented there to ensure safety for all visitors.

Just outside the holiday park you’ll find a whole host of quaint market towns such as Ashbourne, Bakewell and Chesterfield which are easily accessible. Only 20 minutes away by car is Chatsworth House, a world-famous home. In addition to viewing the famed residence, there is also a large playground for children and farmyard animals to befriend. You can also avail of the fantastic farm shop so you can take home some of the Chatsworth Estate’s wonderful produce. Unfortunately, Haddon Hall which is a close by attraction for Pride and Prejudice fans is closed at present but hopes to reopen soon. Haddon Hall recommends that all visitors in the meantime visit the Summer Mercatum Artisan Markets held in Haddon’s private organic parkland. For those visiting after reopening, Haddon Hall made a number of appearances in the Pride and Prejudice film as well as Jayne Eyre and other period films. Dating back to the 12th century, it has been described as “the most perfect house to survive from the middle ages”. Overlooking the River Rye, it is a sight for sore eyes and is situated within its elegant Elizabethan terraced gardens. Just one of one hundred reasons to visit, Darwin Forest is a hidden treasure in plain sight. Before booking at this current time, Darwin Forest recommends you read their FAQs regarding facilities and activities To book your visit and for more information, visit www.darwinforest.co.uk

residence

Shangri-La Hotel Completed in 2012 and now an iconic feature upon the London skyline

he Shard was designed by Renzo Piano and stands at 309.6 metres (1,016ft) high, making it Western Europe’s tallest building. Heralded by the developer, Irvine Sellar/Sellar Property Group, as being a vertical slice of city, the skyscraper encompasses offices, restaurants, residences, London’s highest viewing platform and Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London. It was in May 2014 that Asia Pacific’s leading luxury hotel group, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, opened it’s first property in the United Kingdom, right up on levels 34 to 52 of the The Shard. As London’s first elevated luxury hotel, the five-star property offers 202 rooms and suites, all with unparalleled views, three signature dining and drinks venues, three riverfacing event rooms as well as an infinity pool and a 24-hour gym on level 52. From the moment you arrive and throughout your journey around the hotel, you are presented with ingenious and innovative design. In the main areas of the hotel, the designers have adopted a contemporary approach to present the sumptuous Oriental motifs, such a fundamental part of the Shangri-La Hotel brand DNA. Colours, textures and materials are used to harmonise the interiors with the cityscape view at each turn.

the

shard

Unparalleled views, three signature dining and drinks venues, three riverfacing event rooms as well as an infinity pool.

Upon arrival at the ground floor entrance lobby on St Thomas Street, guests are greeted by four soaring feature artworks next to the welcome concierge desk. A strip of interlock-boxshaped crystal chandelier illuminates the whole area, adding a sense of modernity. Along with the lighting and layering effects, the shimmering gold-shaded artworks, featuring Chinese ink painting, exhibit the traditional Chinese poise in an innovative and artistic manner. The simple yet stylish furniture accompanies a pastel yellow floral patterned carpet evoking a warm and cozy atmosphere. In seamless fusion, the sky lobby on level 35 combines the design elements of both East and West influences. Stepping out of the lifts, guests are welcomed by grey marble floors reflecting unrivalled views of iconic London landmarks from floor-to- ceiling windows. Together with the cozy furniture and sculptures in the welcome area, the lobby presents a harmony of art and exceptional views. The hotel features 202 guest rooms that occupy levels 36 through 50 with unparalleled views across London. Although the design layouts are varied from room to room due to the spire- shaped architectural design, the hotel’s design theme is represented in all rooms. Here, the essence of Chinese Arts is reinterpreted in a modern and abstract way. Featuring a soothing colour scheme and mood lighting, all guest rooms are infused with cozy tranquility. The spatial planning, exquisite furniture and the distinctive materials create an unsurpassed living space. Amongst the 202 guest rooms are the Signature Suites, which include one of the largest and most extraordinary hotel suites in London, the Shangri-La Suite. At 188 square metres and residing on Level 39 of Renzo Piano’s iconic skyscraper, The Shard, guests experiencing this one-bedroom jewel in the Shangri-La crown enjoy access via a private lift, 24-hour personal butler service, sumptuous living areas with entirely custom-designed furniture and 180-degree views of London’s iconic landmarks from one of the capital’s most rare addresses. The prestigious Shangri-La Suite, designed by Francesca Muzio and Maria Silvia Orlandini, co-founders of lauded Italian design atelier FM – Architettura d’Interni Studio features exquisite custom-made furniture and high-grade silk wallpaper in a refined palette of champagne, citrine and bronze, designed and produced by Muzio, Orlandini and a team of over 250 highly skilled craftsmen from around the world. It also boasts the specially designed Shangri-La Bed featuring patented body-contouring technology and fitted with Frette 1,000-threadcount linen; a grand marble-clad bathroom with integrated television and mirror screens, an expansive walk-in dressing chamber, fine crystal glassware and a wellequipped private pantry, allowing for Shangri-La’s Dine by Design dining experience. The suite may also be connected to an adjacent room, enabling its conversion into a two-bedroom suite with a total living space of 232 square metres. LÁNG, the hotel’s local café and wine bar is the perfect meeting place for locals and hotel guests looking for a relaxing spot to have breakfast, lunch, dinner or evening drinks. Located on the ground floor of Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London, adjacent to London Bridge Station, LÁNG takes its name from the Chinese word for ‘pathway’ and links the leading high-rise luxury hotel to the local community. For those looking to visit for dinner, a new evening menu has now been launched at LÁNG. Fittingly named the Five Mile menu, all produce is locally sourced from within a fivemile radius of the hotel. LÁNG’s new menu is a celebration of the amazing artisan suppliers with the very best British ingredients located literally on the hotel’s doorstep.

Shangri-La

No matter when you dine or what the occasion is, every dining experience is enhanced by 360-degree views The Five Mile menu takes diners on an imaginary journey around the local area from the comfort of their seats at LÁNG. Organic vegetables, premium cured meats and the finest farmhouse cheeses are sourced from the hotel’s neighbours located down the road at Borough Market to those up the street at Bermondsey Street railway arches. Using the freshest ingredients, the hotel’s talented team of chefs have hand-crafted delicious dishes ideal for grazing or dining. From Mini Beef Sliders with Smoked Applewood Cheddar to Sweet-and-Spicy Chicken Thighs with Kimchi Mayonnaise, dishes are packed with a multitude of flavours to delight any palette. Delivered directly to the hotel from Billingsgate Fish Market are the finest natural oysters, which can be ordered by the dozen or individually, and are served with a light Japanese ponzu sauce. Meanwhile, premium pork sausages from O’Shea’s butchers, based less than a mile away, make the Jumbo Hotdog with Caramelised Onions a popular guilty pleasure. A Cannon & Cannon charcuterie board featuring British wild cured sausages, a selection of farmhouse cheeses from Neal’s Yard Dairy and honey from award-winning Bermondsey Street Bees, allow diners to sample a variety of LÁNG favourites simultaneously. For the perfect pairing, LÁNG serves several English wines, including a Bacchus, Foxhole white from the Bolney Estate in Sussex, as well as a pinot noir, Chapel Down Rosé from Kent. Freshly baked homemade cakes from Executive Pastry Chef Heather Kaniuk adorn the counter tops, as does melt-in-yourmouth Whirld Fudge – made using founder Justine’s family recipe that has been passed down through generations. TĪNG is a restaurant and lounge, where guests are invited discover a deliciously local dining experience, celebrating fresh ingredients sourced from suppliers in Borough Market. The name TĪNG derives from the Chinese word for ‘living room’, reflecting the casual elegance of this restaurant and lounge on Level 35, just off the Sky Lobby. The design is sophisticated and subtle, with an open-plan finishing deck offering a glimpse into the kitchen’s lively buzz. The restaurant is a popular destination for breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea and late supper. No matter when you dine or what the occasion is, every dining experience is enhanced by 360-degree views, encompassing the River Thames, Tower Bridge, Maritime Greenwich, Canary Wharf and the historic counties of Kent, Surrey and Sussex. Located at the pinnacle of the Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London at level 52, GŎNG is a curated sky lounge destination crafted by renowned architect Andre Fu of AFSO. Hailed as the highest bar in Europe, GŎNG is conceived as ‘a world of eclectic chinoiserie’, infused with Fu’s signature modern Asian sensuality.

Bringing unparalleled elegance to the city’s social scene, this is the perfect place for sunset cocktails and late-night drinks, featuring the dramatic backdrop of London’s skyline, with views to the west, north and east. The bar offers two distinct areas: the cocktail bar and the Champagne bar. The name GŎNG derives from ‘dougong’, a traditional Chinese architectural element of interlocking wooden brackets, featured in the bar’s distinctive design. Working with the distinct architecture of The Shard building, the floor has been deliberately sectioned into a number of intriguing salons including the champagne bar and an infinity pool. Upon entering, guests are greeted with a series of fullheight panels in silver-foil - each hand- gilded in patterns of chinoiserie sceneries. Behind them, guests discover the seven metre long Imperial Bar, made of solid Arabescato Orobico Italian marble. Next to it, the champagne Bar area is decked in hues of mauve purple and accented with a ‘cabinet wall’ in rustic hammered metal to provoke surprising textures. At the opposite end of the bar is the iconic infinity pool. Here, a pair of over-sized ivory ‘paint scroll’ appear to float directly above the entire pool - a design that is created to provoke a poetic contrast between the sleek infinity pool and the slanted curtain-wall façade. www.shangri-la.com/london

An emerald jewel in the turquoise Maldivian waters. Acres of luxuriant vegetation. Spectacular beaches tapering into an endless sandbank. Catering to all budgets, choice of villas range from the individual Beach Villas to the idyllic Water Villas with Pool. Savour exquisite dishes from 12 superb restaurants catering to diverse taste buds. Sip exotic cocktails in the 7 bars conveniently located in beautiful settings around the island. The island's vast size opens up an array of activities on the island or in the water. Younger guests find thrilling options at Bageecha Kids Club, featuring fun and educational experiences. Kuramathi Maldives – a retreat that offers unique experiences for all in a natural setting.

Kuramathi, Maldives Kuoni (01306 747008 or www.kuoni.co.uk) offer seven nights Full Board at Kuramathi in a Superior Beach Villa including flights on SriLankan Airlines from London Heathrow and transfers in resort. The price for selected departures in March 2020 based on two adults sharing is from £2299 per person, with a saving of up to £753 per couple.

www.kuramathi.com info@kuramathi.com +960 666 0527

Ibiza

he 'White Island' has a well-earned reputation for being the ultimate party destination, with hedonistic tourists and serious music lovers flocking there every summer for decades. But amongst the throng of the party people, it's easy to overlook the history and culture soaked into the fabric of the island's buildings and beaches. Ibiza has a well kept secret; it is riddled with idyllic quiet corners, and in reality, as long as you avoid staying in Ibiza Town or San Antonio, you’ll succeed in escaping the madding crowds and finding your own calm and alluring slice of the island, discover the rich tapestry that is the island’s colourful history and find your own personal paradise. Travel back in time a handful of decades and Ibiza was a true escapist paradise. Wild, natural unspoilt and full of special magic. During the swinging sixties, hippies settled on the island that had already enjoyed decades of writers, painters, bohemians and other artists working and enjoying life on Eivissa. Hollywood stars came to escape and search for privacy and this Mediterranean island that shines with creativity eventually became an important music Mecca. The 'flower power' revolution bought with it a whole plethora of rock stars, lured by the friendly, open-minded, easy, laid-back vibe, unspoilt beauty and the sun which shines for 60% of the year. Ibiza was the island the place for those 'in the know'. When the tourism boom in the 1970s reached the white isle, cheaper travel came hand in hand, as well as newly built accommodation. With the influx of finance that tourism brought upon the isle, discos started to make their appearance. These define the history of recent times. Pacha quickly became the mecca of Ibiza nightlife when it opened in 1973. The end of the 70s brought Wham! to shoot 'Club Tropicana' and a whole new generation of young British holiday makers followed. To cater for all types of European taste, the soundtrack was wide and eclectic. The Balearic musical spirit was born. This wasn't missed a years later by visiting UK DJs Danny Rampling, Paul Oakenfold, Johnny Walker and Nicky Holloway who promptly took the attitude back to London. The early 90s saw this osmosis all come together. As European holiday makers came en masse, large clubs such as Amnesia and Ku Club easily filled to cater for this massive tourist industry.

The word and reputation of these 'super clubs' quickly spread attracting the fashionable, rich and famous to experience the magic of Ibiza's amazing nightlife. Change was in the air, however. Change that would see the face of tourism change forever. Increasing prices and government regulations mounting all led to shifts in the dynamic of the island and true party clubbers started venturing to such alternative destinations as Malta and Croatia. The legendary but now closed forever super club Space most definitely represented the old days of freewheeling' clubbing. The open roof, jets flying over to a screaming dancefloor, in parallel to a relaxed yet hedonistic vibe are scribed into history. However, the wild spirit of Ibiza ever continues. It has simply evolved with time. The parties may be smaller than the superclub, but they are every bit as hedonistic as the spirit of the 'wild days'.

T H E

Ibiza Journey

Ibiza is a safe and accepting place. Anyone, no matter their age can come and enjoy. Party people - young and old arrive in droves over the summer and are swept up in the party culture. The beaches are plentiful and cater for all. Some are quiet, some a constant daytime party soundtracking the day, even nudists have their open places. Of course, the beaches wouldn't be an experience without the beach restaurant. Today, with climate change being undeniable, tourism in Ibiza is evolving and has become redivide. Luxury travel now isn’t just about opulence and hedonism, it is the ability to explore the world, safe in the knowledge you are doing so in a sustainable and ethical fashion. Sustainable tourism management ensures visitors are able to respect the island’s environment and support local development. Eco-tourism plays a huge role on the island, with environmental concerns shaping and pathing the way into the future. On an island of such excess, everyone from club owners to hoteliers, shopkeepers, DJs and villa owners are looking at ways of adjusting their offering to allow for a more sustainable future. There is almost a state of urgency about it all, with innovative answers being sought to protect Mother Nature, the most important lady of the White Isle. We have already witnessed a push for greener public transport, improvements on waste management, especially one-time-use plastics and an all important battle against oil explorations continues as ever. Many local environmental and tourist groups like Love Ibiza, Ibiza Limpia, and The Nature Project also sponsor beach clean-ups. Businesses, realising that the usual tourism spots are now bursting at the seems, have looked to set up off the beaten track, and so began the rise of Agrotourism. If we travelled back a decade, you would be pushed to find an agroturismos; an Italian word that refers to a working farm that rents out some of its rooms. Today, Ibiza has become world renowned for its huge influx of rustic yet luxurious traditional accommodation,

where guests can stay in field and woodland settings and feast upon local produce, safe in the knowledge their green credentials are sustained. Don’t be fooled into thinking that off the beaten track means remote. Ibiza is a small island at 20km by 50km and so the path less trodden is only ever a hop, skip and perhaps a taxi ride away from the infamous clubs, restaurants and beaches. The ultimate pull is that visitors to the new rustic establishments get the perfect blend of nature, peace, hedonism and wild antics that are synonymous with Ibiza. With the tourist season expanding to welcome visitors much earlier in the year and holding on to them way past the time the sun sets on the average holiday season, Ibiza is now a year round destination. March and October are becoming the new must-visit dates, with tourists lured over by reduced prices, less crowding and yet a perfect average forecast of 24-27C. Ibiza and the island’s visitors are ever-evolving. What hasn’t changed is Ibiza’s magical concoction of magnetic traits that promise her visitors hypnotic sunsets, beach scenes, crystal clear waters, and of course, parties from dusk to dawn.

“

Eco-tourism plays a huge role on the island, with environmental concerns shaping and pathing the way into the future. Everyone from club owners to hoteliers, shopkeepers, DJs and villa owners are looking at ways of adjusting their offering to allow for a more sustainable future. ” 67

IBIZA, Naturally I

t is without doubt that Ibiza is one of the most famous cities in the Balearic Islands for its spectacular clubbing scene, foodie credentials and luxury accommodation. However, you

will discover that there is far more to Ibiza when you journey past the white washed walls and disco lights and discover the natural world that lies beyond. Ibiza boasts two world-

class nature reserves, each adorned with flora, fauna, landscapes and wildlife that will take your

breath away. Here you’ll find mysterious caves, ancient monuments, folklore, almond groves and olives trees, crystal clear waters and rugged rock formations and the homes of a cornucopia of birds and beasts.

The es Vedrà und es Vedranell and the rocky islands of Poniente Nature Reserve Set to the south west of the island, in the municipality Sant Josep de sa Talaia, you’ll find the nature reserve of es Vedrà und es Vedranell and the rocky islands of Poniente Nature Reserve. As one of the island’s most spectacular attractions, the reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is surrounded by unspoiled beaches, cliffs and a horizon of rocky islands that make this place unique. If the sea, nature and their surroundings are your passion, then es Vedrà und es Vedranell and the rocky islands of Poniente Nature Reserve is your go-to place to leave your cares behind, take time out and just be at one with nature on holiday. Es Vedra is a small island that reaches almost 400m high, made of limestone and set like a beacon within the Mediterranean Sea. Surrounded by legends and mystery, it is thought to be the tip of the sunken city of Atlantis and the home of Homer’s wailing sirens who lured sailors to their peril.

y. Es Vedra is also the setting for one of Ibiza’s popular fables. Es Gegant des Vedrà or The Giant of Es Vedra is the story of two brothers who, set about curing their father of an incurable illness. They venture to the Es Vedrà island together to find rock samphire and, once there, come across a huge giant living upon the island, huddled in a rugged cave. The two brothers are cunning and, together with the assistance of sea urchins, manage to debilitate the giant and succeed in collecting the samphire for the cure. Throughout the years, the island’s only habitant was a monk who took residence in the mid 19th century, in order to escape the rest of the world. Aside from reportings of UFOs and other fantastical sightings, you’ll find only animals amongst the slopes and island caves. Wild goats roam, Ibizan wall lizards dart from rock to rock and an endangered species of falcons call it their home. Part of the reserve and the highest point in Ibiza, Sa Talaiassa stands tall at 473 metres high and is rich with lush vegetation and rare animal inhabitants. The peak is reachable by foot, or for the less active enthusiast, by car. Whether by foot or wheels, once you arrive, you will thank your lucky stars you made the journey. The views are simply spectacular and when the weather allows it, you can see right over to mainland Spain and Mallorca. It’s no wonder that the name translates to ‘Watchtower’.

IBIZA, Naturally. Natural Park of Ses Salines Take a trip to the south of the island and you’ll find Ibiza’s second natural park of Ses Salines. The Ses Salines d’Eivissa i Formentera Natural Park is located between the two islands of Ibiza and Formentera, comprising the southern area of the Ibiza, the north of Formentera and the sea that separates them. Throughout history this area has seen much salt production activity and over the years this has formed a unique landscape where countless species of birds come to nest, historical and cultural landmarks create spectacular points of interest and marine life thrives. The reserve covers 3000 hectares of land and 13,000 marine hectares and the seabeds are home to 220 different species of marine sea life. If you venture to the extreme coastlines of the park, you’ll find an idyllic setting where marine and coastal ecosystems exist in delicate harmony. Three quarters of the park is made up of marine seascapes, characterised by the existence of the oceanic Posidonia, an area of major marine ecological importance. The existence of this plant creates the supreme clarity of the area’s waters as well as serving as a protected area for a vast range of marine species. The Posidonia also plays a large part in protecting the beaches of Ibiza from wave erosion and in 1999 the site was declared well territory by UNESCO. Back on land the nature park is home to an impressive array of plant species; in fact it includes almost all of the plant species found on the Pityusic Islands. On the island of Formentera you’ll find coastal pine and juniper groves scattered throughout the park area as well as lush vegetation surrounding lagoons, cliffs and both mobile and semi mobile dunes. It is this dramatic terrain and spectacular landscapes that keep tourists flocking to witness the beauty of the park and the nature that lies within. Within the park, you’ll find over two hundred species of birds, with waterfowl and seabirds playing a major role. It’s a paradise for bird watchers, with flamingos, the common stork, the white jar, and the black-legged plover taking residence, along with seabirds such as the Audouin’s gull and the Balearic shearwater. Estany Pudent is home to one of the highest concentrations of black-necked grebes in Europe. Other famous residents include the Pityusic lizard (Podarcis pityusensis), endemic to these islands and with different subspecies on the islets, with characteristics that include the whole possible range of colours from brown to blue. The lizards of Formentera are hardy creatures and live on some of the driest and harshest environments for life. The humble garden dormouse (Eliomys quercinus) can also be found creeping amongst the wild vegetation, as well as various species of snails and beetles, also endemic to the island.

Throughout history this area has seen much salt production activity and over the years this has formed a unique landscape where countless species of birds come to nest

THE KEMPINKSI

7 Pines Resort ibiza

Set dramatically on the edge of a pine forest bordering the sea on the west coast of the island, The Kempinski Seven Pines Resort Ibiza offers the height of laid-back luxury and Ibizan flair.

n all-suite clifftop resort set in whitewashed Ibicenco-style homes that respect the island’s authentic design with contemporary touches, Seven Pines fills an extraordinary area of 56,000 square meters and offers tailor-made luxury, privacy and beautiful surroundings for guests in its 186 spacious suites. The resort’s unique position between the spectacular Cala Conta and secluded Cala Codolar beaches (both within walking distance), means that Seven Pines Resort Ibiza enjoys a stunning backdrop of the island of Es Vedrà and the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Completing the offering, Seven Pines is a convenient 25 minute’s drive from the airport and encompasses exceptional food and beverages, a comprehensive spa and wellness offering and unparalleled discreet, personalised service. The resort’s very own Pershing yachts are also on hand for guest transfers and charter. The 186 expansive suites at Seven Pines are set in sprawling gardens in a village-style resort. The open plan one- and two - bedroom accommodations enjoy an abundance of natural light, are furnished in a refreshing contemporary yet comfortable design and neutral tones with turquoise accents that ooze serenity and style. The resort is separated into three distinct areas: The Laguna, Ibicenco Village and the Cliff. Located in a quiet part of the resort is The Laguna, a collection of 42 suites each with terraces or balconies, and a central lagoon-style swimming pool with its own chiringuitostyle bar. The outward-facing suites have their own swim-up pool and this area makes for an ideal location for exclusive large groups and event bookings. Spread around the resort’s fragrant gardens, the Ibicenco Village features 140 one and two-bedroom suites distributed in 37 traditional whitewashed houses. Each house consists of 3 or 4 suites varying in size and attributes and every suite offers a furnished terrace or balcony with breathtaking views to either the resort, the gardens or the utopian sea. The largest suites also feature their own pool, ideal for enjoying the Ibizan sun with a little privacy. In prime position for the sunset are four two-bedroom Cliff Suites with private gardens and panoramic views of the sea, perfect for groups of friends and families looking for space to reconnect.

The resort is separated into three distinct areas: The Laguna, Ibicenco Village and the Cliff.

7 Pines Resort No matter which location you choose, each suite also comes perfectly equipped with its own House Bar with a selection of beautiful wines, premium spirits, mixers, ice and equipment (including a cocktail-making tool, recipe book, full selection of glass and ceramic-ware) as well as Illy coffee machines for guests to make their own refreshments just as they like, accompanied by a wide selection of snacks. When it comes to cuisine, Seven Pines stop at nothing short of exceptional. With a focus on using the very best hand-picked ingredients, the team pride themselves on using innovative cooking techniques to create light and refined dishes to match the laid-back style of the resort, the island and its sunshine-filled days. Both gastronomic delights and breathtaking vistas are offered at The View restaurant - open for breakfast and a la carte dinner to hotel guests and visitors - which looks out to the sparkling sea beyond. Its clifftop position and panoramic views ensure a relaxed hazy start each morning, setting you in the perfect frame of mind for the rest of your day. As the evening draws in, The View serves a modern Asian cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. Feast on sizzling fish, meat and vegetables prepared on the Robata grill to bring out the fresh produce’s exquisite flavours. Tasting menus featuring the signature dishes are also available for those who wish to sample it all and an extensive selection of fine wines from the resort’s specially-created and lovingly curated wine cellar will leave you stuck for choice.

Ideal for relaxed drinks and comforting Mediterranean sharing plates, the laid-back Cone Club restaurant is open from lunchtime until late evening hours. Big community tables create a warm, bohemian inspired atmosphere that invites guests to have a relaxed day among each other and enjoy the magnificent views. Serving smoothies, signature cocktails, chilled wine and cool beers, the Cone Club has a beach club feel and with light clifftop breeze and stunning views, is the new sunset hotspot for the island that continues beyond sun-downers to a chilled-out evening vibe during the daily Sunset Rituals. The Pershing Yacht Terrace is the latest addition to the food and drink scene at Seven Pines, having opened in June 2019. Providing the ultimate location for another superb sunset spot, the utterly unique Pershing Yacht Terrace is set at the impressive backdrop of the rock island of Es Vedrà and is a sophisticated cocktail bar and the first in the world that has been designed by the Pershing Yacht team to emulate the vessels’ clean lines. It enjoys views of the sea and glowing torches to set a chic atmosphere accompanied by a chilled-out playlist. Home to signature drinks, classic cocktails and fine wines and liquors, it is the perfect location for pre-dinner drinks or a night cap and perhaps a cigar. For more of a relaxed vibe, the Infinity Pool Bar is located at the very heart of the resort and serves light cuisine alongside refreshing beverages, while the Laguna Pool Bar delights with a menu of Thai favourites throughout the day.

When it comes to a bit of well deserved R&R, Pure Seven the spa at Seven Pines Resort Ibiza is a haven of wellbeing

7 Pines Resort

The extensive treatment menu offers an array of treatments using pioneering techniques ranging from advanced cosmetology and ancient practices

Ensuring guests’ every whim is catered for, Seven Pines have launched ‘Home Delivery’, the resort’s innovative in-room dining concept which can be ordered through the resort’s own mobile app. Serving a menu of fresh soul-satisfying delights such as creative salads and international classics, the dishes are all delivered by bike and served on natural, bio-degradable tableware. Guests in the larger suites are also able to order a private BBQ chef who can come to the suite’s garden and cook a feast on the grill for family and friends. For an even more celebratory feel, a bar and mixologist can also be arranged to accompany. When it comes to a bit of well deserved R&R, Pure Seven the spa at Seven Pines Resort Ibiza is a haven of wellbeing that is inspired by the Mediterranean lifestyle and energy of Ibiza with a mission to reconnect individuals to themselves in mind and body. Open to hotel guests and visitors alike, the Pure Seven spa is a 1,500sqm oasis that offers a series of relaxing, rebalancing and reinvigorating treatments. Seamlessly blending natural and organic elements – including local ingredients such as Ibiza salts, herbs and citrus - with the latest cosmetology, all therapies are tailored to the individual. The extensive treatment menu offers an array of treatments using pioneering techniques ranging from advanced cosmetology and ancient practices from every corner of the world; from Mayan volcanic stone massage to Indian Ayurvedic medicine and from Oriental methods to massages with European influences. ESPA and Neom products are used to create the Pure Seven spa‘s signature treatments and rituals while complementary holistic therapies, such as acupuncture, ear candling, physiotherapy, osteopathy and oxygen therapy, are also available and highly popular. Your wellbeing experience begins with the Pure Seven relaxing tour through the steam bath, sauna, cold mist shower and relaxation area with water beds and a central, double-height panorama of the captivating Mediterranean Sea and the iconic rock island of Es Vedrà. Treatments are provided in the

spa’s six treatment rooms including a double suite that is complete with a private balcony and its own sauna. The first-floor gym and its terrace (perfect for sunrise stretches or TRX sessions with a view) also offer impressive sea vistas, while the Beauty Salon offers services such as manicures, pedicures, and hair and make-up. The Pure Seven spa supports both physical and mental wellbeing with the likes of personal training sessions, Pilates, yoga, guided hiking, meditation, nutritional and life coaching with wellness programmes that are adapted to each individual to achieve relaxation, assist with stress-management, increase energy and fitness or detox depending on their personal goals. Sustainability is high on the agenda at Pure Seven, with the spa striving to be plastic-free, using only paraben-free, vegan products. For those who are looking for a slice of the action, active pursuits are a plenty at Seven Pines. Heart rates are sure to get a little higher with activities such as indoor and outdoor personal training, running trails, cross-country biking, sea swimming and stand-up paddle boarding. Should you wish to take a trip out of the resort and seek adventure, Seven Pines Resort Ibiza can create an exceptional itinerary for you. From diving to beach-hopping, chartered yacht excursions to restaurant reservations and club bookings, best beach recommendations to private jet arrangements, these specially designed excursions will ensure a memorable Ibizan experience. The resort’s own fleet of Pershing Yachts include a Pershing 5X, 74 and 9X, available for guest charter. It is without doubt that Seven Pines is a fantasy location, and it is therefore of little surprise that the resort is also regarded as the ultimate fantasy wedding destination. The team delights in ensuring an unforgettable day whether couples prefer clifftop sunset nuptials or a garden ceremony, laid-back and intimate celebrations or an elegantly decorated banquet. The resort’s dedicated and experienced team will be on-hand to take the stress out of arranging the festivities, as well as coordinating necessary paperwork for the ceremony. www.7pines-Ibiza.com

T H E

HACIENDA

NA XAMENA, IBIZA

The Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza, is a haven of serenity to live out your dream holiday in Ibiza.

ocated in a unique and magical frame, this classic white washed Ibiza style property is suspended on the coastal frontline, 180m high over the sea level and in the heart of a preserved natural park. Here you can enjoy perfect tranquility at your leisure but on the flip side, you are only a 30 minutes’ drive from Ibiza’s frenetic life, where everything can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors. The resort has 77 rooms and suites, several meeting and banquet rooms to celebrate your event in Ibiza, two restaurants, an indoor and outdoor bar, a Spa with outdoor and indoor facilities, three fresh-water swimming pools (two outdoors and one indoor), sun terraces with towels and sun-beds service, and a whole host of sporting and leisure facilities. At the Hacienda Na Xamena, everything is created with harmony between the outside and the inside: patios, arches, galleries, plants, white architecture and the spectacular entrance of a great Ibiza´s style country estate. From each room and suite, guests can admire and immerse themselves with nature: the turquoise blue sea, the dazzling sky, the wild cliffs and unforgettable sunsets that have always enchanted. The team’s goal is to offer guests an unforgettable experience which stands out from the other classic five star resorts. The architecture, the design, the discreet but elegant team and the services and activities, all ensure guests discover the magnificence of living magical experiences.

The team’s goal is to offer guests an unforgettable experience which stands out from the other classic five star resorts. 80

The aim here is to ensure a short stay at the Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza resort offers better relaxation than longer holidays anywhere else. The connection with nature allows guests to get back to the natural rhythm of life and fully enjoy the day, experiencing its four special moments – sunrise, noon, sunset and the starlight sky. This luxury resort and freedom on the white island has, without any doubt, a revitalising and invigorating effect not easily rivalled anywhere else. Hacienda Na Xamena idea was born back in the late sixties when Ibiza was very different to what guests can see and experience today. The local residents lived isolated from the world, with only one ferry to join the mainland per week. Then, the artists and hippies, looking for an enlightened lifestyle, closer to nature, grew interested in the “Jewel of the Balearic islands”. It was during this time that Belgian architect Daniel Lipszyc and his wife fell in love with this authentic and unspoilt version of Ibiza. In 1969 they started the construction of the Hotel Hacienda (as it was named at the time), a hotel of quality and great comfort, perfectly integrated into the landscape, protecting the surrounding nature. It was a job for a real pioneer as there were no roads, water, electricity or telephone lines at the time. Taking advantage of the infrastructure implemented for the hotel, the housing estate of Na Xamena was created nearby.

Officially opened in 1971, and in 1988, the hotel was awarded with its fifth star, becoming the most quoted hotel on the island, characterised by its discreet luxury.

The Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza, officially opened in 1971, and in 1988, the hotel was awarded with its fifth star, becoming the most quoted hotel on the island, characterised by its discreet luxury, it´s distinguished but familiar atmosphere and its attentive service. The Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza, also acquired its name and fame through its clientele, photo shoots, and filmed movies and series. The 77 rooms and suites each have their own private balcony or patio as well as a jacuzzi and bath tub facing the window with views to the glistening Mediterranean Sea. In addition the Eden room, Suite Junior Eden, and Na Xamena Suite offer the guests a pleasant moment of exclusivity from their private mini pool. All rooms are equipped with minibar, airconditioning, telephone, satellite TV, Wi-Fi, safe, cosmetic mirror, hairdryer and all other five-star standard services and amenities that ensure your every creature comfort is met.

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The 77 rooms and suites each have their own private balcony or patio as well as a jacuzzi and bath tub facing the window with views to the glistening Mediterranean Sea.

When it comes to gastronomy, Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza has set a high standard offering the best cuisine in Ibiza for many decades. Today, the chef Fran López brings to Ibiza two Michelin Stars, and culinary knowledge and experience, to continue the tradition and offer clients luxury dining experiencies in Ibiza. The Edén Restaurant & Lounge has a unique atmosphere and considered by many as the best sunset place in Ibiza. This onsite restaurant is an incredible location to live a unique dining experience. Embedded within the Hacienda Na Xamena incredible location, the Eden Restaurant and Lounge has an outdoor dining terrace suspended on the coastal frontline, 180m high over the sea level, in the heart of a preserved natural park. At the Eden Restaurant, every dish is the result of our passion for cooking: the team search for the best ingredients and study the local cuisine, to elaborate and create new delicious meals. They love food but they know it’s not all: for a perfect experience visitors need a special place and a special team to serve them. That is why they have chosen a great and styled place to serve our cuisine: in the North of the island our diners can admire the best side of nature: the turquoise blue sea, the dazzling sky, the wild cliffs and the unforgettable Ibiza sunsets. The objective is to offer visitors a memorable experience which stands out from the other restaurants and eating propositions. The decor, the staff careful service and the dishes are all made to ensure guests discover the magnificence of living high-quality moments. On special occasions and especially on weekends, you can enjoy live music at the Edén Restaurant, along with the best sunset vibes of the island and a delicious cocktail.

T H E

Hacienda

NA XAMENA, IBIZA

The Edén Restaurant & Lounge has a unique atmosphere and considered by many as the best sunset place in Ibiza. This onsite restaurant is an incredible location to live a unique dining experience.

For those looking for a more casual dining experience, ‘By the Pool’ is a pool snack and cocktail bar open from midday to 22:30 and exclusively reserved for the resident guests. The menu is simple and tasty with classics such as avocado salads, hamburgers or club sandwiches, but also lighter vegetarian options, such as delicate tapas. For some ultimate relaxation, the resort spa, La Posidonia is named after the colony of seaweed that lives in the underwater world of Ibiza and Formentera. A team of professionals make hotel and external guests relax and forget the stress of everyday life. Skincare brand SkinCeuticals and La Posidonia Spa have teamed up to bring the knowledge of science to a range or facial and corporal treatments. The spa offers a world of sensations for the body and mind, with six treatment rooms, relaxation, Hammam and the SkinCeuticals SkinScope. For those looking for adventure, the resort are able to offer activities both onsite and excursions further afield. The resort has two outdoor pools and one indoor, with the main outdoor pool being sustainably lightly heated via Solar Panels installed on the roof. You’ll also find a games room which welcomes kids and big kids alike and is equipped with a Play Station 4, a cinema, various table and children games, a foosball table, Ping-Pong table, giant chess, and billiards. The synthetic outdoor pitch will delight the sporting types and is versatile to accommodate Football, Volleyball, and Tennis. You’ll also find a boules area, mountain bikes, pool accessories, and more, all complementary for guests. The onsite gym is small but very complete. You can stay healthy and keep up the shape during your holidays and if you like to jog, the surrounding area of the resort is a perfect playground. www.haciendanaxamena-ibiza.com

Café

MAMBO

Café Mambo has become part of the island's history and a firm staple in the nightlife of San Antonio.

Reopening in 2021, we look back at the 2019 season which celebrated the 25th Anniversary

arking a quarter of a century as the ultimate hotspot for the world’s most iconic sunset, the legendary venue fuses the most breathtaking Mediterranean views, with delicious food, ice-cold cocktails, and stunning DJ sets from the finest talent in the electronic scene. Set in the heart of San Antonio, Café Mambo is recognised for its unrivalled sunset views. Once just a small Ibizan house, Café Mambo was soon transformed into one of the most iconic restaurants and bars on San Antonio's famous sunset strip. Café Mambo was the brainchild of Javier Anadon and was created during the 90’s house music heyday and received instant recognition, was named ‘Bar of the Year’ by GQ and its following grew rapidly. DJs began to frequent the bar requesting to play on the decks and before long regular sets included the biggest names in dance music playing at the now celebrated sunset ‘pre-party’. With the

2019 season marking 25 years as the white isle’s ultimate idyllic haven, the venue is sure to once again welcome a fine array of stellar acts back to the famous booth, especially if 2018 was anything to go by. Last year visitors witnessed performances from the likes of Fatboy Slim, Eric Prydz, Roger Sanchez, Bob Sinclar, The Mambo Brothers, and weekly pre-parties for DEFECTED Records. Café Mambo prides itself on being a family business, having had the same management for over 20 years. As a truly magical place, Café Mambo has become more than just a restaurant in one of Ibiza's resorts; it has become part of the island's history and a firm staple in the nightlife of San Antonio. Throughout the week the DJ booth – which is intimately tucked away behind tables that overlook the main promenade, is taken over by Pacha's finest for their pre-parties. An average week may see the likes of Solomun, Guy Gerber,

Café Mambo not only provides the sunset strip with a venue for tourists and locals to enjoy music from globally renowned DJs, it also serves up delicious food to the backdrop of one of the worlds most mesmerising sunset spots.

Martin Solveig and Bob Sinclar take to the decks; and of course with this comes an unrivalled atmosphere which paired with the scenery takes you on a journey to paradise. Café Mambo not only provides the sunset strip with a venue for tourists and locals to enjoy music from globally renowned DJs, it also serves up delicious food to the backdrop of one of the worlds most mesmerising sunset spots. Café Mambo has also been awarded the DJ Award for 'The Best Bar in Ibiza' several times which stands as a solid recognition to its contribution to the island's nightlife and in particular the transformation of San Antonio. While the venue offers holidaymakers a taste of the bustling music scene and allows you to experience an elite experience each evening, it still remains authentic and embraces the charm of the White Isle with its décor of mosaics, marble and white furniture. Open throughout the day, Café Mambo makes the perfect pit-stop for an afternoon stroll. You can grab a delicious strawberry daiquiri and nibbles while sitting on the terrace that overlooks the famous rocky area and Mediterranean sea. As day goes into night the crowds filters in filling the

surroundings and creating an amazing atmosphere. Then the plasma screen drops down to showcase the DJ talent to the masses and the infectious house sounds fill the air as the sun sets across the horizon. If you want to have dinner at Mambo we strongly recommend you reserve a table, especially if it's around sunset time which obviously is the daily peak at Café Mambo and the sunset strip generally. Every week Café Mambo hosts pre-parties for some of the best club nights in the world. Join the team every day of the week, starting with the brand new Monday Masquerade pre-party including appearances from Claptone and his guests before sashaying away to Pacha. Then comes Tuesday for the brand new night Bodyworks at the mega club Hï with guests such as Fisher, Camelphat and Solardo and Wednesday sees Armin van Buuren, Sunnery James and Ryan Marciano before their night at Hï with guests such as Nora En Pure, EDX, Fedde Le Grand.

Café

MAMBO

If organisation isn’t your thing, then why not have your whole weekend organised by the Café Mambo team?

As the weekend approaches, Thursdays sees Café Mambo host the pre-party of ABODE at Amnesia with talented guests such as Danny Howard and Ellie Cocks and come Friday, you’ll experience the Defected pre-party at Eden, with guests from Low Steppa, MK, Mambo Brothers, Sam Divine, Simon Dunmore and many more. If you’re still hungry for more, Saturday is Pure Pacha at Café Mambo, welcoming guests such as Martin Solveig, S-Men, Housekeeping and Hannah Wants and Sundays has the pre-party for Glitterbox at Hï bringing back disco vibes with Roger Sanchez, Shapeshifters, Kenny Dope and more. This year the International Music Summit honoured owner and founder Javier Anadon with the IMS Legend Award, recognising and paying tribute to the artists and industry trailblazers that have helped write dance music history and define its culture. IMS Co-Founder Danny Whittle says “It’s an absolute pleasure for IMS to present Javier with the IMS Legends Award as Javier is without doubt one of the true legends and his unfaltering support for electronic music has been a pleasure to be part of. From my early days of decorating Café Mambo for Renaissance pre-parties, Javier always supported and helped up to hosting all seven Pacha pre-parties there through the 2000s, huge BBC Radio 1 events

Café Mambo offers some exclusive experiences that just might float your boat. How about watching the sunset from one of the official Café Mambo boats and ending the experience by being dropped back to the venue where your table will be all set for you and you can start the party?

and so much more. This is one IMS Legends Award dinner no one should miss, it’s going to be one hell of a night with a huge group of people that have nothing but love for Javier, Caroline, Christian, Alan and the whole Mambo family.” If you are celebrating a special occasion, then Café Mambo offers some exclusive experiences that just might float your boat. How about watching the sunset from one of the official Café Mambo boats and ending the experience by being dropped back to the venue where your table will be all set for you and you can start the party? The team will pick you up and later on take you back to your accommodation. If you’re a morning person, perhaps you may enjoy brunch at Cafe Mambo followed by a morning spent on one of their speedboats. Once again, the team will pick you up at your accommodation, drop you off at Mambo and after your cruise we will take you back to your hotel/villa. If organisation isn’t your thing, then why not have your whole weekend organised by the Café Mambo team? This package includes accommodation, return airport transfer and activities throughout your stay such as private boat cruise, dinner at Café Mambo or morning in spa – perfect for those hen and stag dos! www.cafemamboibiza.com

Casa

MACA

Born from the popularity of Ibiza’s famous sunset spot, Café Mambo, Case Maca is part of a collection of independently owned restaurants, hotels and bars that owners the Anadon family went on to open.

he collection also includes Hostal La Torre, Cala Gracioneta, La Cava, and Villa Mercedes and like Casa Maca, they are all making their mark in creating authentic, experience-led dining, drinking and accommodation destinations.

Casa Maca is a unique restaurant with rooms in a beautiful rural location that looks across to Ibiza Old Town and the sea beyond. Set in a 300 year old farmhouse, it offers seasonal farm-to-table cuisine and country charm with modern touches, whilst also being within minutes of some of the island’s best nightlife, beaches and marinas.

Open all year round, Casa Maca – which translates to beautiful house in the local Ibizan dialect – welcomes diners and guests like a family home, offering authentic experiences and personalised service. The bright airy terrace of the restaurant and the open air dining space are the focal points of any visit. And their special atmosphere is evocative of the energy the island is so well known for.

Whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the menus fuse global gastronomy with local, organic ingredients. The talented executive chef combines current culinary trends with Spanish classics and hotel favourites, and a three course Menu del Día (menu of the day) is an ever-changing delight based on what produce is available. Breakfast is also served until 12pm, which for those sampling the island’s nightlife or just taking it very easy, is always greatly appreciated.

The open-air dining space plays host to an impressive grill. Fresh meat, fish and vegetables hang over an open fire and diners relax to a soundtrack of chill out music with a world influence twist and welcoming conversation while sipping on cocktails served from the aluminium Airstream bar. For those guests choosing to stay at Casa Maca, there are 10 suites peppered across the grounds including eight junior suites and two larger suites. Each of the suites varies in decoration but typical Ibizan style and rustic chic furnishings give a sense of place, while contemporary additions such as air-conditioning and Marshall radios offer the comfort guests require. The expansive bathrooms are consciously kitted out with paraben-free, certified organic botanical products by Grown Alchemist, meaning zero impact on the local environment. Days can be spent by the pool or enjoying the privacy of the suites’ gardens or terraces, where guests can choose to book massages, facials and even private yoga classes. Casa Maca can also be booked exclusively for weddings. The English-speaking wedding team, which has been working on the island for over 25 years, can arrange every detail of the celebration. www.casamaca.com

Casa Maca is a unique restaurant with rooms in a beautiful rural location that looks across to Ibiza Old Town

H O T E L

SiR JOAN

Wherever we may roam, so many of us crave being immersed fully in the country’s culture, being exposed to the real life goings on of that destination, and feeling like a local. Where we stay needs to be one-of-a-kind, breathtaking and something we haven’t experienced yet. We want our minds opened, broadened and inspired. Sir Hotels is a boutique hotel collection that was designed for exactly that purpose, aimed at those seeking authentic experiences in unique locations.

he collection was created by the award-winning Amsterdam-based hotel development and management company Europe Hotels Private Collection (EHPC). It launched in Amsterdam back in 2013 with the opening of Sir Albert, located in a former diamond factory in the city’s vibrant De Pijp district. Sir Savigny then opened in the heart of Berlin’s Charlottenburg district in 2016, quickly followed by Amsterdam's Sir Adam, located in the iconic A’DAM Tower. 2017 saw the openings of Hamburg's charming Sir Nikolai and Ibiza's heavenly Sir Joan and Barcelona's Sir Victor opened its doors in early 2019. No matter which country you visit, each hotel combines historical architecture, impeccable interior design and extraordinary events that embrace the local community. Situated prominently in the very centre of Ibiza you will find a private paradise, overlooking the port and Old Town; Sir Joan. This intimate retreat reflects the island’s vibrant culture and sensuality. It is a free-spirited yet modern hotel that embraces any and all—from party hoppers to bohemian recluses. Clubbers will find themselves just moments away from the iconic Pacha club and those seeking a luxury escape can wander down to Puerto de Ibiza with its fabulous bars, waterside dining and world-class entertainment. If it’s the beach life you seek, Talamanca beach is just a stones throw away and for those who are born to shop, you can take a stroll and find the city centre with its exclusive boutiques and bohemian markets just around a few corners. Whilst you’re very much in the centre of it all, we guarantee you, you won't hear a thing. Sir Joan’s 38 rooms and suites are all sound proofed and designed by the award-winning architects and interior designers Baranowitz + Kronenberg. Keeping to the Sir ethos of embracing local features, they integrate the island’s nautical elements, including stripped wood yacht floors and highly polished stainless-steel wall panels that visually emulate the sunlit waves. Every room has one or two private balconies, curated local art and books by Spanish writers. The bathrooms are impeccably designed with Carrara marble and wood details and equipped with his and her sinks, a rain shower, luxurious bath products and local Ayurvedic oils. Guests can choose from a whole plethora of luxury room options, all varying in size and budgets but all guaranteeing the ultimate night’s sleep, especially when each bed is adorned with the Sir Bedding Collection featuring 300-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets. Sir Boutique rooms are approximately 24 square meters and fitted with all the standard luxurious amenities and impeccable design, whilst the Sir Deluxe room has a little more space and sun flooding in all day long. All Deluxe rooms feature a king-size bed as well as a spacious private balcony and a tropical palm tree view.

Situated prominently in the very centre of Ibiza you will find a private paradise, overlooking the port and Old Town; Sir Joan. This intimate retreat reflects the island’s vibrant culture and sensuality.

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SiR JOAN Spread out in the 40-square-meter Sir Supreme room you’ll find extra-special extras including an in-room lounge and a balcony. The king-size beds and the bathroom’s high-power rain shower will bliss you out! Or how about soaking up the magnificent views in the 50-square-meter Sir Grand? Each suite features a lounge and two private balconies with outdoor seating areas. The floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning views of Old Town and the port make this space exceptional. In addition to the luxurious bath products, local Ayurvedic oils and plush bedding, every Sir Grand room boasts a high-power rain shower and a king-size (sometimes round!) bed. If you’re part of a gaggle of friends travelling together, then the Sir Sun Deck is for you, combining two Sir Deluxes and one Sir Supreme via a large terrace overlooking the pool and Ibiza’s Old Town. For the ultimate extravagance, Sir Joan plays host to a duet of glorious Penthouses that can act as your own luxurious hideaway, overlooking the whole island. You can either book one, measuring at 65 square meters or go loco and book both, known as the Grand Penthouse. Each of the two Penthouses include two private bedrooms and lounges (with the ultimate cocktail bar setup). The 80-square-meter terrace encircling the Penthouses has outdoor seating areas, an open-air kitchen and private cabanas. Aside from jaw-dropping bedrooms, exquisite design and an unrivalled location, Sir Joan Hotel has worldclass foodie credentials to boot. Highlighting that Ibiza offers more than paella and tapas, the ground of the hotel features the Izakaya Asian Kitchen & Bar and The Butcher burger restaurant. Izakaya is without doubt a culinary hot spot and absolute authority on Asian gastronomy. The restaurant has taken the traditional Japanese dining experience to a higher level with extravagant Japanese cuisine with a South American twist and high-quality cocktails. Serving you breakfast, lunch and dinner, Izakaya is a must-visit whether you are staying at the hotel or further afield. The Butcher is a high-end yet casual burger bar that connects Ibiza’s nighthawks and early birds, satisfying each craving with inventive, delicious burgers. Away from the restaurants and bedrooms, the Sir Joan Hotel communal areas have an exclusive membership club feel to them. Peaceful during the day and alive after the sun goes down, The Bar is where locals and guests connect over exceptional cocktails, whilst the tranquil saltwater plunge pool is the perfect complement to the Ibiza sun. As well as sun loungers running the length of the pool, you’ll find café style tables and chairs allowing you to sip, eat and lounge poolside and let your worries float away. Designed as a new service connecting their guests with friends of the hotel, Sir Explore is a concept whereby the hotel hooks you up with an experienced host who can provide you with a fresh perspective on the island. Your host will show you a unique side of Ibiza, helping you learn something new and, of course, making sure you have a ton of fun. The hosts are people they trust, that they’ve met out on the town and hang out with on weekends.

They have that special magic that turns a trip into an adventure and makes a stranger feel like a long-lost friend. The team at Sir Joan have handpicked some of the most epic and unforgettable experiences you can have on the White Isle and offer them to guests, arranging all the details for you. How do you fancy an Es Portixol Hike and Snorkel with Paolo, a nature expert and Ibiza native? He’ll take you out for a day of adventure, starting with an 8 kilometre hike and ending with a dive into the sea. Perhaps you would rather explore the more mystical side of Ibiza with local yogi Oihana? The day begins with a flowing yoga practice to wake up the body and mind to the magnetic magic of the northern shores. From there, you will be guided on a hike through rocky cliffs to discover hidden coves, take in breathtaking views and even harvest some Ibizan sea salt, all while Oihana explains the legends of the healing island. If you’re more content on sea than land, then classic boating with Alba, a local pro sea woman might just be on the agenda. Join Alba for a local sailing trip on her stunning, traditional llaüt, or even take control and be your own captain. Speaking of all thing nautical, the Sir Hotel Collection have their very own seafaring vessel. Hop aboard for a magical outing on the Mediterranean Sea. The Sir Boat features a sleek, modern design and the captain and crew members will take the utmost care of you. This 60-foot dayboat with a captain and crew member is docked in Ibiza or Barcelona and can accommodate up to 10 guests and reach up to 40 knots. Relax and enjoy the sea and sun whilst the team handle the drinks and bites. You will be provided with complimentary drinks, coffee and snacks and when it’s time to eat, you can be hooked up with Izakaya Asian Kitchen & Bar for delicious Japanese food. Each Sir Hotel is a product of its environment, distinctly inspired by its respective community in both design and ethos. To give thanks, all Sir Hotels support local organisations that are making great strides for their cities by donating one euro for each night of your stay. Sir Joan is partners with The Ibiza Preservation Foundation (IPF), an organisation that seeks to preserve Ibiza and Formentera’s exceptional natural beauty as well as promote sustainable initiatives. www.sirhotels.com/en/joan

AQUARACER CALIBRE 5 Chris Hemsworth works hard and chooses his roles carefully. He handles pressure by taming it, and turning it to his advantage. #DontCrackUnderPressure was coined with him in mind.

Seychelles Island Jewels in an Azure Sea The 115 islands of the Seychelles Archipelago lie scattered across their secret corner of the western Indian Ocean like precious gemstones set in a universe of azure water – stepping stones to the east coast of Africa, some thousand miles away, and natural gateway to the many treasures of the continent.

hese islands were first discovered by the brave Arab mariners of the 9th century B.C. who first began to chart the unknown waters of an ocean they called the ‘bahr al zanj’’ or ‘sea of the blacks’, leaving traces of their presence in the names they gave to certain of the islands such as Aldabra which is sometimes appropriately translated from Arabic as ‘the rock.’ With nothing in the way of historical records to fall back on, we are left with little more than conjecture to fathom the precise history of these spectacularly beautiful islands which may also have received visits from the Phoenicians; from a people who once sailed from the other side of the planet to eventually settle the island of Madagascar and from the famous 1472 Chinese treasure fleet of Admiral Zheng. Whatever their past, the waves have long since washed away all trace of those early settlers and explorers. After having served as a hideout for the pirates of the 17th and 18th century, one of whom, Olivier Le Vasseur, also known as La Buse, is believed to have buried a massive and as yet undiscovered treasure hoard on the main island, Mahé, the islands were finally settled by the French in 1756. They remained a French colony until they passed to the English after the defeat of Napoleon in 1814 and it was they who administrated the islands until their independence as a sovereign republic within the Commonwealth in 1976. The islands’ legendary loveliness has long acted as a magnet to travellers in search of the Holy Grail of pristine tropical beauty and many famous travellers have beaten a path to its shores including the likes of Ian Fleming, author of James Bond, who visited the islands to receive inspiration for one of his Bond books.

The islands finally emerged from their slumber of ages in 1972 when they became connected to the rest of the world via a new international airport which saw the birth of the islands’ tourism industry. Seychelles, straddling the western Indian Ocean between 6 and 10 degrees south of the equator, is divided into 6 island groups with the Inner Islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue together with their neighbouring isles forming the hub of the islands’ tourism industry, the economic life of the nation and its political and social infrastructure. Measuring 27km long and 8km wide, Mahé, the principal island is a mountainous, granitic island that boasts no less than 65 beaches. It is home to the capital, Victoria, and also to the international airport and to the vast majority of the 90,000, mainly Roman Catholic population. Commanding spectacular views of the surrounding ocean, Mahé contains the lion’s share of the archipelago’s hotels, tourism amenities and retail outlets. The charming capital, Victoria, has many fascinating nooks & crannies and points of historical interest including its bustling market that supplies much of the island’s fresh produce: fresh fish; vegetables; fruits; condiments and spices. Mahé also showcases a surprising variety of flora & fauna including many indigenous species, discoverable at the Botanical Gardens or on organised excursions along popular walks and trails. The fascinating underwater treasure houses of the Ste. Anne and Cap Ternay Marine National Parks, meanwhile, can be visited on snorkeling expeditions and a variety of excursions. Seychelles’ second largest island, Praslin, lies 45 kilometers (24 miles) north-east of Mahé and is accessible by Air Seychelles domestic flights in 15 minutes or by fast catamaran ferry in 45 minutes. It is home to the legendary Vallée de Mai in which grows the fabulous Coco-de-mer and possesses some of the most striking beaches of the archipelago such as Anse Lazio, widely acclaimed to be the most beautiful beach on earth.

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Praslin stands at the forefront of the country’s tourism industry with a rich assortment of hotels and guesthouses whose strong tradition of Seychelles’ hospitality over a period of many years has proved a favourite with visitors. The island is ideally situated for holidaymakers wishing to island hop to a handful of nearby exotic destinations such as Chauve Souris, Cousin, Curieuse, St. Pierre, La Digue and the Aride bird reserve. It is also a haven for nature lovers seeking rare endemic species such as the black parrot for which Praslin is the last habitat or wishing to explore the island’s network of footpaths. La Digue, known as ‘the island where Time stands still’, is situated forty kilometres (25 miles) from Mahé and 7 km (3.5 miles) from Praslin and is the fourth largest island in the Seychelles after Silhouette. This granite island, with its unique, languid pace of life, receives its visitors mainly by boat at the quaint jetty at La Passe and is a popular destination for holidaymakers wishing for a taste of the traditional.Here is a place where the bicycle and ox cart still hold sway on shady island pathways and where a distinct sense of antiquity pervades the island’s customs, architecture and general way of life. Anse la Source d’Argent is among the island’s most famous beaches, celebrated for its granite boulders that seem to have been sculpted by a divine hand to adorn a beach of breathtaking beauty while at the Union Estate, visitors will have the chance to view some of the traditional local industries of times past. Nature lovers will have the opportunity to seek out the rare Black Paradise Flycatcher, once thought to be extinct but now protected in the La Digue Vev Special Reserve which is also home to two extremely rare species of terrapin. The woodlands of La Digue are especially attractive and nurture several species of delicate orchids. The island is also an ideal stepping-stone for the nearby island attractions of Grande and Petit Soeur, Félicité, Coco and Marianne.

Mahé, the principal island is a mountainous, granitic island that boasts no less than 65 beaches.

The remaining five groups of Outer Islands represent the far frontier of the Seychelles holiday experience. Here, shimmering atolls and reef islands, thread like pearls on strings of surf and unaltered since the days of their origin, offer the summit of islandstyle living. Currently, only three such islands offer accommodation: the islands of Denis and Bird located 100 miles to the north of Mahé and Desroches Island in the Amirantes, 140 miles to the south-east. Here the fishing, diving and sailing are superb in places where the only sail on the ocean and the only tracks on any beach will be your own. Overall, all the islands have been blessed with many natural assets and attributes including possessing a nearperfect and disease-free climate; an endless list of world-beating beaches; a sanctuary for some of the world’s rarest species of flora & fauna and an enviable conservation record whereby almost half of the 455 sq.km landmass has been set aside as natural parks and reserves. There are also no less than two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the extraordinary Vallée de Mai where the legendary, double-lobed coconut, the Coco-de-Mer grows high on ancient palms in a setting so surreal it was once thought to be the original site of the Garden of Eden, and Aldabra atoll, the planet’s largest raised coral atoll.

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Nowhere else on earth will you find the mysterious Jellyfish Tree of which only 8 specimens remain; the Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher; the world’s smallest frog; heaviest land tortoise; largest population of giant land tortoises (150,000) living in the wild and the Indian Ocean’s only flightless bird. Between them, the islands also boast some of the most spectacular seabird colonies on earth as well as 13 species and 17 sub-species of birdlife that occur in Seychelles and nowhere else, making the islands a true birdwatcher’s paradise. The surrounding waters, meanwhile, are a natural aquarium boasting a dizzying array of coral reef fish, turtle, ray, shark, dolphin, marlin and sailfish as well as colourful coral growth and a host of other marine organisms. The world’s largest fish migrates to these waters: that gentle giant of the seas, the 40 ft. whale shark - one of Seychelles’ many protected species. Also on offer is an amazing degree of diversity which takes in the contrast between 41 towering granite isles and the 74 shimmering sand cays, reef islands and atolls of the Outer Islands while the multi-ethnic roots of its relatively young society lend themselves to a varied and vibrant culture with all its people and major religions living beside one another in perfect harmony. The diversity also extends to contrasting styles of architecture and beyond to the delicious, Seychellois Creole cuisine with its magical blend of European, Indian and Chinese culinary influences.

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World-class fishing, sailing and diving as well as spa & wellness holidays, honeymoons & romance, trekking, island-hopping & golf. And when it comes to things to do, there is a wide choice of world-class fishing, sailing and diving as well as spa & wellness holidays, honeymoons & romance, trekking, island-hopping & golf. All of these can be enjoyed from an equally diverse array of accommodation options that includes the ultimate in pampering at exclusive 5-star resorts and island hideaways, the Creole intimacy of the smaller hotel and guesthouse and the flexibility of any number of self-caterings. These are the stepping stones to your unique experience of Paradise, where the innate tranquility of the islands forms the ideal backdrop against which to recalibrate mind, body and soul and enjoy the vacation of a lifetime. No account of Seychelles’ riches can be considered complete without mention of its reputation as ‘The Islands of Love’ and it is little wonder that that lovers are inspired to take their vows and wed in this gentle and romantic atmosphere. Sensual Seychelles creates the idyllic ambience for an unforgettable wedding day, honeymoon or anniversary upon the silver-soft sands and beneath the swaying palms of discreet island hideaways.

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Further memorable experiences can be had via Seychelles’ suite of events that includes February’s increasingly popular Eco-friendly Marathon; August’s Feast of La Digue; September’s Tourism Ball and the perennial FetAfrik and Festival Kreol. The islands have been made accessible as never before thanks to the arrival on the aviation scene of major players such as Emirates Airlines, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Condor, Sri Lankan Airline, Turkish Airways, British Airways, Air France and Etihad which is now in a dynamic partnership with the national carrier, Air Seychelles, offering daily frequencies to make Seychelles virtually one stop away from anywhere on the planet with the added advantage of zero visa requirements for any nationality. Meditation techniques invite us to close our eyes and imagine Shangrila, a mythical place of ultimate harmony where tired spirits can be refreshed and worries washed away. Somewhere with the space to breathe the purest air and ample room to stroll the trackless, powder-soft sands of breathtaking beaches. A place for the senses to feast on the endless delight of fresh experiences. Creation has blessed Seychelles with all of this and more. Against the backdrop of its unique island beauty, it is a place where harmony, tranquility and Nature at its very best will conspire to leave you with the memories of a lifetime.

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Transportation, both in between and around the islands, makes the visitor’s dream of island-hopping a reality bring the principal islands and their satellites within easy reach.

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Story Hotel

Unparalleled Paradise Tranquil, boutique and culturally connected, the resort offers guests a chance to create memories worth sharing.

ocated on Beau Vallon beach which lays northwest on the island of Mahé; a mere 30 minutes’ drive from the international airport - Story is a contemporary & chic property featuring 100 rooms comprising of villas and suites, an award winning spa and 7 eclectic dining experiences. As your paradise home away from home, the resort offers you the opportunity to enjoy all the modern comforts in this beautiful tropical paradise entwined with chic décor, sumptuous food & beverages and spacious luxury to relax in. Whether it’s a fun holiday with the family, a romantic escape or the start of one, or to even look back and reminisce life with a loved one - Story Beau Vallon Beach is known for its turquoise ocean views, crystal white beach and lush emerald greenery where you can expect nothing but undisturbed sights, charming creole hospitality and new heights of life & style indulgence. Story Beau Vallon Beach offers an unparalleled collection of opulently appointed accommodations, relaxation and recreational spaces that showcase the true heritage of their Seychellois surroundings. The 100 villas and suites redefine paradise - they simply exude stylish opulence, stylish comfort and idyllic bliss. Designed to represent a blend between creole and colonial architecture - the resort is an epitome of tropical luxury. From plush furnishings and mesmerizing backdrops, to the spacious layout and beautiful finishing’s - all overlooking the topical tropical gardens leading to the beach. The beach facing private pool-villas offer an entirely new level of luxury. A unique product available only at this resort in the Beau Vallon beach area - each one occupies a private spot on the beach with direct access to the bay as well as a private pool, pool-deck, cabana, outdoor rain showers, luxury in-room amenities and personal pampering products. Similarly the suites include a comfortable double bed and lounge area with luxurious amenities of comparison. All suites have choice of private terrace balcony or a terrace that opens out onto the resort gardens, complete with sun loungers. Each villa or suite also features indoor and outdoor daybeds and dining areas; plush sofas, beds and seating areas; pristine bathrooms featuring oversized free-standing bathtubs and rain showers - as well as all the modern technologies such as a large screen LCD and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi.

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As your paradise home away from home, the resort offers you the opportunity to enjoy all the modern comforts in this beautiful tropical paradise entwined with chic décor, sumptuous food & beverages and spacious luxury to relax in.

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Story Hotel

With seven eclectic dining experiences in the form of bars and restaurants to choose from – you’re spoilt for choice. The resort offers a wide selection of dining options. VASCO’s is the main restaurant featuring continental cuisine, that serves breakfast & themed dinner buffets is named in honor of the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. The 1502 Lobby Bar is your haven for for eclectic cocktails that compliment your meals throughout the day. Seyshima is the Japanese teppanyaki restaurant on the lagoon that serves up an excellent show and delectable sushi and Eden is the specialty Creole inspired beach-front barbecue restaurant. Ripples Pool Bar is ideal for some amazing cocktails and light lunch and Trader Vic’s the French-Polynesian tiki bar concept restaurant features Latin-American live entertainment. Guests can also choose the resort’s ‘pièce de résistance,’ a bespoke, romantic under the moon & stars dining on the beach coupled with the ambience of the soothing ocean waves. Customised options also include privatised group reservations for beach and/or in-villa barbecues as well as a luxurious in-villa floating pool breakfast. Holidays are meant for indulgence so guests are encouraged to pamper themselves at the award winning Sesel Spa or try some customised workouts at the Beau Vallon Gym & Yoga Studio to flaunt that beach body. Sesel Spa is a true heaven within a haven - whether it’s a results orientated treatment, or just an experience of utter relaxation you’re looking for, it is a must, to make it a part of your Seychelles experience.

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The luxury relaxation areas offer a tranquil setting for both pre and post massage treatments, so make sure you spend some time there to truly rediscover wellness.

Explore the healing elements in nature and discover the true essence of being at one with yourself. Named as a tribute to its destination (Sesel is the Creole name for Seychelles), this blissful space features a total of seven treatment rooms including five single rooms and two couples suites, in addition to a Vichy Hydrotherapy room. We also have a salon for nails, hair and other beauty therapies. ‘Sesel Spa’ offers a selection of signature treatments that infuse the best of Western and Eastern techniques – all implemented by expert therapists who take a holistic approach to wellness. The luxury relaxation areas offer a tranquil setting for both pre and post massage treatments, so make sure you spend some time there to truly rediscover wellness. Open 24/7 and overlooking the lagoon, the Beau Vallon Gym & Yoga Studio is equipped with state-of-the-art Life Fitness cardio machines and free weights. The Beau Vallon Studio is perfect for syncing your body and mind with yoga. Guests can take advantage of the complimentary recreational schedule – ‘Fit Happens @ H’ which is designed for the holidaying guest’s fitness goals. In addition to our fitness and yoga programmes, recreational facilities are dotted throughout the resort with the stunning infinity pool taking centre stage. With ample sun loungers and parasols bordering it, the 24 meter long sapphire blue water invitingly tempts you to submerge. The accompanying kids’ pool is a safe 0.4 meter in depth. Also on offer is tennis, volleyball, pétanque, table tennis, a giant chessboard, masks, snorkels, paddle boards and kayaks to satisfy all your holiday recreational needs.

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Story Hotel It’s not only the grown-ups that are spoilt - a world of exploration and fun awaits the little ones at Treetops Kids’ Club. Happy kids make for happy parents and this is the main priority. You can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your child is well cared for by a team of professional caretakers who arrange fun-filled activities. Suitable for children aged 3 to 12 years, the club is open daily from 9am – 6pm. The resort also offers baby-sitting services and can prepare baby-food upon prior requests. Guests can also indulge in our weekly activities that includes a range of paid & complimentary options like transfers to Victoria city, drop-off for the Anse Major Hike, cocktails & conversations with the resort management, a scenic sunset cruise in a glass bottom boat, bi-weekly live-entertainment, Cinema Paradiso, sundowners and many more seasonal events – there’s always something for everyone to enjoy at the resort. This intimate, tropical island retreat is the perfect location for a destination wedding or honeymoon. When one thinks of the term ‘tropical island’, it conjures up thoughts of pristine ivory shorelines, a turquoise ocean and a backdrop of luscious greenery. This is exactly what you can expect at Story Hotel Beau Vallon Beach – the perfect destination to turn the dream wedding into a beautiful reality. Couples can choose to say ‘I do’ either along the beach, in the spectacular garden gazebo or in a number of secluded venues dotted around the resort. In addition to an idyllic backdrop, a customised wedding ceremony can be organized by the team of wedding specialists. From eclectic table designs, tiered wedding cakes and bespoke menus, to entertainment, bamboo ceremony archways and a civil ceremony officer, there’s no dream that can’t be made into a reality. The Story Hotel offers a number of packages that can be tailored to ensure that each and every wedding is both perfect and personal. If you are looking for the ultimate honeymoon escape or just a time away with family, then look no further than Story Hotel Beau Vallon Beach. Everything, from the moment you arrive, to the time you reluctantly depart, has been designed with the discerning traveler in mind.

For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.story-seychelles.com

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Escape to the Seychelles

Trekking through seemingly untouched green cloaked mountains. The pristine, white powdery beaches are amongst the softest on the planet, clear azure waters gently lapping at the edge.

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7south@7south.net

+(248) 262 0782

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F i s h e r m a n ’ s C o v e Situated in Bel Ombre on the island of Mahe, the origin of Seychelles hospitality, Fisherman’s Cove is nestled in a lush tropical paradise. Whether walking on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles, pampering yourself at the Zen Spa or savoring the extraordinary nuances of Creole cuisine, a stay at Fisherman’s Cove creates memories for a lifetime.

he resort overlooks Beau Vallon, the largest and most popular beach on Mahe and the aqua blue Indian Ocean. Uncover enriching discoveries bordering on 3 km of sparkling ivory sands at the western tip of Seychelles, in the bay of the famous and picturesque Beau-Vallon Beach. Lush gardens create an inspiring atmosphere for a romantic idyll or a serene getaway. Our two restaurants and bars allow you to explore innovative pairings of flavors and aromas, beyond the simple relaxation afforded by the sand and sea, an exhilarating choice of water sport activities and our spa anticipate your discovery. Fisherman’s Cove offers an extensive range of rooms with magnificent beachfront views of the Beau Vallon Beach with ivory sands and crystal clear Indian Ocean waters. Designed to embrace a typical Creole style, all rooms are open plan, light and airy with wooden accents and rattan furniture. Whether you choose a chalet style room or one situated within the main hotel block, you will enjoy the creature comforts of the modern shower and bathrooms. Separate deep soaking tubs, oversized rainforest showers, and ample toiletries create a haven of comfort. Airconditioning in every room may be adjusted to keep you cool and comfortable and tea and coffee making facilities, ipod docks and espresso machines all add to that feeling of luxury. Designed to create an open natural setting, each room enjoys its own private wood terrace with beautiful views of the resort’s lush tropical gardens or the dazzling blue Indian Ocean, which you can capture perfectly and boast about online by taking advantage of the WLAN Internet access. Fisherman’s Cove features an asymmetrically shaped infinity pool that creates an idyllic setting for you to spend a long languid day relaxing in the sun on one of the surrounding sun loungers. Those who prefer a more active holiday will enjoy their time in the gym or on the tennis courts and water sports enthusiast can have a go Designed to create an open natural setting, each room enjoys its own private wood terrace with beautiful views of the resort’s lush tropical gardens or the dazzling blue Indian Ocean, which you can capture perfectly and boast about online by taking advantage of the WLAN Internet access. Fisherman’s Cove features an asymmetrically shaped infinity pool that creates an idyllic setting for you to spend a long languid day relaxing in the sun on one of the surrounding sun loungers. Those who prefer a more active holiday will enjoy their time in the gym or on the tennis courts and water sports enthusiast can have a go at canoeing or pedal boating.

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The resort boasts two restaurants and two bars, all with ocean facing views, featuring a sensational selection of international and local dishes in an elegant, yet relaxed, atmosphere.

As you near the end of an active day, Fisherman’s Cove welcomes you to its very own corner of paradise. Undeniably luxurious yet comfortably relaxed, the soothing Zen Spa is surrounded by dazzling views of the Indian Ocean and invites you to indulge in the ultimate pampering. Reviving your body and spirit with a selection of beauty treatment and massages such as Aromatherapy; Balinese; Swedish; Indian Head Massage; Back, neck and Scalp will encompass your senses with delight and far exceed ones expectations by achieving unsurpassed results. The Spa is also accompanied by the Fitness Center accessible 24hrs a day with your room key. A steam room and plunge pool is available complimentary to guests. The resort boasts two restaurants and two bars, all with ocean facing views, featuring a sensational selection of international and local dishes in an elegant, yet relaxed, atmosphere.

Discover the local touch, aroma and taste of Creole cuisine; experience a-la-carte fine dining and unwind while sipping exotic cocktails accompanied by breathtaking views of the ocean. Embark on a culinary discovery and stimulate your taste buds at Paris Seychelles and Le Cardinal restaurant. For a relaxed gathering spot at sunset, the Cocoloba Bar and the Sunset Bar serve signature cocktails and light snacks by the water. Le Cardinal serves a lavish buffet of differently themed delicacies every night in its beautiful, open-air dining room. Enjoy local seafood, luscious fruits, organic produce and exquisite desserts against the dazzling backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Located on the resort’s picturesque pontoon, Paris Seychelles offer classic French gastronomy combined with Seychelles’ rich culinary history that draws from both Africa and Asia, a truly unique Beau Vallon Restaurant experience.

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The relaxed and welcoming Le Cocoloba Bar invites you to unwind to the sounds of “Nouvelle Vague” while soaking up the exceptional view of the Indian Ocean. With its casual, contemporary design, the Sunset Bar sets a chic stage for enjoying signature cocktails made from local ingredients, whilst the relaxed and welcoming Le Cocoloba Bar invites you to unwind to the sounds of “Nouvelle Vague” while soaking up the exceptional view of the Indian Ocean. Additionally, the resort offers a delicious selection of Inroom dining options at any hour of the day or night. A mere 20 minutes away from the smallest capital city in the world, Victoria, guests are urged to make the most of the resort’s unique location and explore the local seafood and crafts markets. Dive into the region’s fascinating history and experience firsthand the subtle French, Indian and Asian influences that permeate the cooking and explore the resort’s winding pathways, lush landscape and private enclaves which set an undeniably romantic stage for couples who want to escape from the bustle of modern life, language and culture. Home to a mesmerizing underwater world of coral reefs and tropical fish, Fisherman’s Cove is the perfect destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiast. Explore pristine white sands lapped by topaz waters, coral sunsets and ignite your inspiration with an underwater encounter that leaves you with incredible memories of the island. Visit enchanting underwater sites and learn about the importance of marine conservation with marine experts from our partner, the Marine Conservation Society Seychelles, who have helped us develop the project and continue to support it. Proceeds from the donations collected go to sustain the marine conservation projects led by the Marine Conservation Society Seychelles. The usage of water sports equipment is complimentary during your stay however a deposit of 50 Euro is required when you wish to make use of this equipment. In a utopian setting overlooking the coral reefs of the Indian Ocean, Fisherman’s Cove offers an authentic venue for your wedding experience, which resonates of unique cultural and natural discovery. Get married on the beach or on the pontoon that offers a unique setting to exchange wedding vows with the ocean as a backdrop. The team at Fisherman’s Cove can even take care of all the legal documents that are required for the ceremony as well as take care of your function through tailor-made packages.

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https://fishermanscove-resort.com/

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Raffles S E Y CH E L LES

For over 120 years Raffles has gone out of its way to give you the warmest welcome, the richest experiences and the fondest of memories and today the legend continues all over the world.

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he Raffles name is synonymous with luxury, glamour and extraordinary adventure. Each hotel is an oasis of calm and charm at the crossroads of a civilization. Each is a carefully chosen destination in its own right. Each is uniquely, indefinable, sublimely Raffles. Now as the brand grows and reaches new and sometimes surprising destinations, guests can rest assured that wherever in the world the brand travel, it will remain distinctly Raffles – infused with the same spirit of adventure, luxury and sublime service. Exciting and enchanting, refreshing and invigorating, Raffles is loved by those with an adventurous spirit and a taste for the very best. In 2011, Raffles’ first ever resort in the Indian Ocean was opened in one of the world’s most far flung destinations, the island of Praslin in the Seychelles. Beautifully designed upon a lush hill facing the Indian Ocean, Raffles Seychelles features 86 private villas, some of the most spacious in the archipelago. Each villa offers a private pool and outdoor pavilion to soak up the breath-taking views of the opal-hued ocean, white sandy beach and rolling green hills. An oasis of laidback luxury, Raffles Seychelles instills a sense of wellbeing and creates an atmosphere of blissful relaxation, ideal for the paradise seeker. The resort sites right on the beautiful and renowned Anse Takamaka Beach, 500 meters of pristine white sand line the resort’s beachfront, with dramatic granite formation adding to the picturesque coastline. It only gets better as you can step a few meters from the beach and enjoy two, 45 meters long infinity pool, where paradise seekers can relax, sunbathe and enjoy fresh cocktails.

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diverse collection of culinary experiences at its four restaurants; Losean Restaurant, Curieuse Restaurant, The Sushi Room, and Pool Restaurant & Bar. Offering breakfast dishes from around the world to an evening menu inspired by the Indian Ocean, Losean offers thoughtfully-prepared and contemporary food throughout the day. Come evening and Losean becomes an elegant dinner setting, with tables both inside and out in the gardens, candlelit and accompanied by the sounds of the sea. Incorporating local ingredients and freshly-caught fish, the à la carte menu is a tribute to the best of Creole and Indian Ocean-inspired food; simple and delicious, with a contemporary twist. Curieuse Restaurant is gastronomic journey tracing through India, China and South East Asia, Curieuse, led by Chef de Cuisine Sunil Dutt, is the Seychelles’ only Asian restaurant. Infused with oriental spice and aromatic ingredients, the menu varies from Thai salads and spicy sour soup to Indian curries and traditional Chinese stir-fries. With low-lit outdoor tables dotted amid the leafy Seychellois surroundings, Curieuse is an atmospheric, islandchic setting for an unforgettable dinner.

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Another amazing attraction to Raffles Seychelles is the signature Raffles Spa, a haven of peace, relaxation and rejuvenation. Steps away from the coastline of Anse Takamaka, amidst stunning surroundings, it’s carefully designed to calm the spirit and awaken the senses. This luxurious spa features 13 treatment pavilions, showcasing the spectacular view of the blue ocean, tropical gardens and dramatic granite boulders. Two spa suites, a first in the Seychelles, are fitted with steam showers, Japanese soaking tubs and observation decks where guests can enjoy stunning vistas in privacy. A tranquil spa garden makes the ideal spot for pre- and post-spa relaxation. Set among natural rock formations and high above the water, even the journey to the treatment pavilions is an intrinsic part of the Raffles Spa experience. At 1,234 square meters this is the largest spa in the archipelago, and the closest spa to the Indian Ocean. Dining at Raffles Seychelles is an absolute pleasure as you are spoilt with the world of fresh seafood before you! Beach dinners under the stars, cocktails on a rooftop overlooking the ocean, finely crafted sushi and sashimi, contemporary Creole dishes: Raffles Seychelles presents a

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Synonymous with romance thanks to its white sands, stunning scenery and beautiful sunsets, the Seychelles is a destination that’s ideal for couples.

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The Sushi Room - In a location famed for its fresh fish, The Sushi Room at Curieuse celebrates the island’s worldclass catch with an exciting menu of sushi and sashimi. The intimate, eight-table room, just off the main Curieuse restaurant, allows guests to witness the chef in action, skillfully preparing each dish moments before it arrives at their table. The evening tasting menu presents an assortment of nigiri, tataki, maki and sashimi for a well-rounded experience of Japanese cuisine, complemented by a variety of sake. Sushi can also be enjoyed à la carte at Pool Restaurant & Bar for lunch. Pool Restaurant & Bar showcases fresh, local products and light cuisine and offers a casual lunch setting, perfect for refueling during a busy day of soaking up the Seychellois sun. Serving salads, sandwiches and wellloved classics from around the world, as well as sushi and sashimi, the menu’s diverse options cater to every appetite. Produce at Raffles is always guaranteed to be the freshest around, with their very own vegetable orchard. Bringing to life cultural and natural treasures at the resort, Jason Ernesta, the Chief Gardener has used his insider local knowledge of the land to create this priceless asset for guests. With a wealth of experience, Jason has also played an integral role in various humanitarian

projects on the island such as environmental preservation and the tortoise foundation among others. His passion and zest for the natural elements led to his appointment at Raffles Seychelles at the age of 69 over 4 years ago. Jason is renowned for his friendly interaction with both the guests and team members at the resort. He loves nothing better than meeting world travellers and drawing them into the rich details of his homeland and the garden landscapes. Celebrations are also done in exquisite Raffles style in Praslin. When it comes to marking your special occasion, the possibilities are endless at Raffles Seychelles: enjoy a group trip of a lifetime, complete with beach barbecues, cookery classes, excursions to neighboring islands and fishing trips; celebrate birthdays and anniversaries with private dinners under the stars, rooftop cocktails and spa treatments. Synonymous with romance thanks to its white sands, stunning scenery and beautiful sunsets, the Seychelles is a destination that’s ideal for couples. The team at Raffles help you create the perfect proposal, picture-perfect wedding, unforgettable honeymoon or anniversary. Complete with romantic dinners, couples’ massages and aromatic baths at Raffles Spa, champagne cruises and sundowners on Anse Lazio, one of the world’s best beaches, you are guaranteed an unforgettable celebration.

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There’s never a dull moment in paradise as this resort comes equipped with an amazing recreation team who knows the island better than anyone! Indoor or out, relaxing or inspiring, for families or couples; Raffles Seychelles has activities which help you feel at one with the natural beauty of the archipelago. With a range of water activities, from snorkeling to boat excursions, to table tennis on the resort or hiking trails for the adventurous, there is something to suit every taste. Fear not the worry of having the kids on holiday as The Sugar Palm Kids Club is a dedicated club catering to toddlers, children, and even teenagers on the resort. Lively, educational and age appropriate activities are coordinated by the Recreation team to ensure that the young ones can enjoy the idyllic paradise of Praslin, as much as adults do. Raffles are proud to not only ensure their guests are well-looked after, but pay particular care to their locality, community and the environment as a whole. It was back in 1997 when Raffles initiated REACH (Rendering Encouragement, Assistance, Care and Hope), a community programme that offers pillars of support to underprivileged children, the arts and the environment in all destinations Raffles Hotels & Resorts operates in. Today, Raffles has fully adopted the Planet 21 programme

There’s never a dull moment in paradise as this resort comes equipped with an amazing recreation team who knows the island better than anyone! of AccorHotels across all properties. The programme focuses on improvements in waste management, energy and water conservation, as well as community outreach through local groups and partnerships. Raffles takes a very active role in playing their part in tackling plastic pollution and taking steps to stop the use of disposable plastics on the island. The hotel is passionate about environmental preservation and sustainability and is exemplifying an eco-conscious stance throughout its operations. With the willingness of 86% of travellers worldwide, who are passionate about spending time on activities that offset the environmental impact during their stay, Raffles Seychelles is providing ways in which guests can decrease their carbon footprint. The hotel is making strides to reduce environmental impacts by ending the use of plastic straws and other non-biodegradable materials. www.raffles.com

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SUNSET BEAU VALLON SEYCHELLES making memories that will last a lifetime

https://fishermanscove-resort.com/

Hotel

L’ A rc h i p e l Glynn Burridge

s there an accurate geographical term to describe a place that forms part of a larger entity yet remains wonderfully separate from it? In the context of Seychelles, certainly, such a term would describe the beautiful Hotel L’Archipel, snug in its glorious niche in the north-east corner of Praslin Island and with an imperious view over almost the entire shimmering, silver strand of Côte d’or, one of Seychelles most exquisite beaches. In this secluded corner of Praslin, L’Archipel, with its splendid history and pedigree as one of the island’s finest hotels, has continued to weave its spell over successive generations of travellers for over 30 years. The name L’Archipel - which is French for Archipelago - geographically describes a string of islands , the Seychelles Archipelago , some of whose island names have been adopted by the hotel to christen its impressive suite of accommodation options, each one blending discreetly with the surrounding tropical gardens and commanding a sweeping panorama of the sapphire ocean gently lapping at its front door. L’Archipel was inspired by the vision of its late departed owner, Louis d’Offay, one of the pioneers of Seychelles’ hospitality industry and a tourism icon, who together with his wife Cecile commenced the construction of the hotel in 1985 with just 9 rooms, with the latter even helping in the kitchen when necessary. Powered by an energetic marketing campaign in France and with the help of two French chefs, they conscientiously built the foundations of the successful enterprise that L’Archipel is today. Today, the hotel, which has been ingeniously and tastefully refurbished to capitalise on every aspect of its unique location, continues to dominate Praslin Island’s accommodation scene by virtue not only of its spectacular geographical location, but also on account of a tried and tested philosophy characterised by a very high standard of personalised service, meticulous attention to detail and genuine Creole flair.

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Today, the hotel, which has been ingeniously and tastefully refurbished to capitalise on every aspect of its unique location, continues to dominate Praslin Island’s accommodation scene

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L’ A rc h i p e l All rooms fuse fine taste and aesthetic beauty with a high level of functionality, ensuring that your stay in this luxurious tropical cocoon will be as inspiring and soulful as it will be comfortable – and memorable!

The hotel’s range of accommodation options includes family suites, senior suites, deluxe rooms and superior rooms. Located on the top floor of the main building, at 120 sq.m, family suites are extremely spacious with two bathrooms, a separate lounge and a veranda and ideal for two adults and three children or three adults and one child. The 65 sq. m senior suites feature an elegant seating area and bathroom with bath and shower. Two of these suites are interconnecting and ideal for families. Deluxe rooms, at 60 sq m, are spacious yet intimate and scattered discreetly across the hillside, the well-tended gardens and the approach to the beach –ideal for seniors, honeymooners or guests in search of a dash of Seychelles-style seclusion and tranquillity. Finally, the 60 sq.m hillside and garden superior rooms are roomy and enjoy excellent views of the bay of Côte D’or. In terms of interior design, all rooms fuse fine taste and aesthetic beauty with a high level of functionality, ensuring that your stay in this luxurious tropical cocoon will be as inspiring and soulful as it will be comfortable – and memorable! Room features include air-conditioning, flat screen TV, free Wi-Fi, room service and everything you might expect from a 4-star hotel with an eagle eye for detail. Hotel amenities include an infinity pool, lobby bar, souvenir shop and the possibility of in-room massage and baby-sitting. Throughout, L’Archipel’s distinctive Seychellois Creole architecture with its understated, clean lines and colonial aura resonates with the aesthetic charm and timeless appeal of a bygone era. In its operations, first and foremost in L’Archipel’s corporate culture comes the welcome it extends to its guests and the enduring policy of Louis d’Offay that each guest must be welcomed personally upon arrival by the hotel’s hands-on management team and a rapport quickly established to ensure that those guests’ expectations are not only met, but surpassed. The high ratio of return guests to the hotel with certain clients returning as many as 10 times, speaks volumes of its effectiveness.

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L’Archipel is also very conscious of the positioning of its product and the importance of it reflecting the Creole soul both in terms of architecture, decor and overarching personality. In a modern world where many competitors appear to have lost their sense of identity, this is most assuredly not the case with L’Archipel where even much of the furniture in renovated rooms has been manufactured on site by the maintenance team using local wood and the hotel’s Balinese furniture provider is encouraged to adopt the strictly responsible and sustainable approach demanded by the operations team. Minute attention is also paid to the hotel’s amenities and levels of comfort by maximizing potential through the adoption of the optimal room design, layout and suite of facilities. Painstaking care is also taken to make sure that high standards of cleanliness and maintenance are sustained throughout the hotel at all times, by the long-serving maintenance team. The L’Archipel philosophy also encompasses the concept of continued growth by increasing yield through product enhancement, particularly via the creation of new room categories which in turn leads to an improved cost of operation ratio leading to available income for hotel upgrades across all departments. Much of the hotel’s success in securing market share can be attributed to effective advertising and the identification of appropriate sales channels pairing L’Archipel’s products and services with a matching mix of consumers. L’Archipel prides itself on the cuisine of its restaurants La Gigolette and La Feuille d’Or, both recognised as being among the finest in all of Praslin and offering enticing variations on a fine-dining theme with the former located right on the beach from where to enjoy the soft breezes and stunning ocean views while the latter occupies the first floor in a more secluded ambiance.

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The hotel’s à la carte menu proposes an eclectic variety of international favourites as well as popular Creole dishes. Not to be missed is the Friday night Creole buffet proposing an excellent and varied offering of mouth-watering local cuisine: octopus curry; salted fish and snake gourd salads; satinis of pumpkin and mango; tender tuna steaks; succulent chicken combined with an unforgettable array of suitably decadent desserts. This is highly recommended as it also features a beachside extravaganza of Creole dance which is an excellent introduction to lively, island-style revelry. Typically, the hotel organises theme nights with two buffets per week. Wonderfully complementing the menu is a fine wine list featuring some excellent French, South African and New World wines as well as an enticing array of cocktails, beers, spirits and flavoured rums. An additional plus is how the L’Archipel kitchen makes use of a range of herbs, vegetables and spices grown within its own grounds with plans to extend its vegetable garden in future. The management of L’Archipel are aware of the importance of sustainability throughout the hotel’s operations and this is echoed in the introduction of a food waste management programme to complement its sustainability practice in power generation and eco-friendly cleaning systems. This initiative targets the problem of unconsumed food which has sometimes been imported from abroad at considerable expense but which ends up in landfill sites, producing unhealthy levels of methane gas which is a major contributor to global warming. Visitors to Seychelles are increasingly aware of the need for responsible environmental behaviour and L’Archipel has already earned global recognition for the way it is using new technology to reduce food waste., resulting in a marked decrease in wastage of food through effective management throughout the chain, from the ordering and purchasing of food items to the disposal of unavoidable waste.

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L’ A rc h i p e l A stay in L’Archipel succeeds in distilling the very best that Seychelles has to offer in terms of otherworldly appeal, seclusion, tranquillity and almost surreal natural beauty This initiative runs in tandem with existing sustainability drives such as the intelligent energy management systems in operation in guest rooms which reduces AC energy consumption by 30% but without comfort loss to the guest. The property is rapidly moving towards 100% LED lighting systems which, in an average guest room, reduces power consumption by no less than 80%! The hotel has also invested in 244 solar PV panels which contribute as much as 20% of its overall power requirement. In a further push towards sustainability, the hotel uses bio-technology cleaning products resulting in the removal of more than 43,000 litres of toxic chemicals from the property per annum. This is in addition to the use of ozone cold water dish-cleaning systems in the hotel kitchens and other ozone technologies designed to reduce the use of chemical cleaning agents in the kitchen and create safe food preparation zones. These combined initiatives have resulted in L’Archipel being only one of 7 hotels with advanced sustainability recognition from PACE Seychelles, the leading Green Technologies supplier in the Indian Ocean region. Mr. Eddie d’Offay, the hotel’s deputy managing director believes that the hotel’s reputation for excellence in sustainability actively contributes towards greater guest satisfaction and hopes that L’Archipel’s success in this area will serve as an inspiration to other hotels to achieve the same, resulting in a massive win for the environment. L’Archipel is also an ideal stepping stone for clients’ wider enjoyment of all that Seychelles has to offer via a range of paying excursions that can be organised through the hotel, in particular, both deep-sea and bottom fishing, scuba diving, excursions to neighbouring islands and, of course, car hire for those personal voyages of discovery around the island. Meanwhile, free activities include the use of a two-seater canoe, snorkelling with all equipment provided and a stand-up paddle board. The hotel is also a natural venue for weddings, honeymoons and impromptu romantic getaways where the staff’s long experience and attention to detail will make all the difference when it comes to preparing for your special day. A stay in L’Archipel succeeds in distilling the very best that Seychelles has to offer in terms of other-worldly appeal, seclusion, tranquillity and almost surreal natural beauty, with the refined elegance of a unique hotel and the eminent professionalism of its caring team into a truly unforgettable tropical escape and lifelong memory of the islands. www.larchipel.com/en

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Holidaying IN MALDIVES

The main reason to take a seaplane ride is for the aerial views – it’s a thrilling excursion and a practical mode of travel in one.

visit to the unique islands of Maldives is unforgettable; not only

because 99 percent of this tiny nation is ocean, but simply because of

its outstanding beauty. The explorer and archaeologist Thor Heyerdahl,

famous for his Kon-Tiki expedition and historical discoveries in Maldives sums it up perfectly in his book “The Maldive Mystery”: “That afternoon

we passed the most beautiful palm islands I have ever seen. With the sun low on our starboard side it threw a glowing sidelight on the tiny islets, which seemed to float by like flower baskets ... Under the spell of this

picture of an earthy paradise I made an entry in my notebook that the

Maldives are even more beautiful than any of the coral atolls in Polynesia.” Heyerdahl was not the last one to fall in love with the islands. Prince

William and his wife Kate enjoyed the islands in 2014 and Celebrities

like the Beckham family, Kate Moss and countless Hollywood actors like

Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Cruise and Milla Jovovich can be seen regularly in one of the many exclusive resorts.

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“thanTheanyMaldives are even more beautiful of the coral atolls in Polynesia.”

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LUXURY

RESORTS

The St. Regis Starwood Group’s St. Regis Vommuli resort has added another sparkling star to Maldives' hotel heaven. In November 2016 the 77 villa resort opened its doors in Dhaalu atoll, about 45 minutes flight from Male. The very spacious and bright villas are surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, beaches of fine white sand and a beautiful turquoise lagoon. Clear lines and a contemporary design work in perfect symbiosis with this idyllic landscape. The luxury villas all have a private swimming pool with pool deck and provide beautiful views of the sea or the tropical gardens. The house reef with its schools of fish swimming in crystal clear water above colorful corals are an invitation for guests to go snorkelling. Five specialty restaurants offer delicious culinary creations, all of which can also be taken privately in any beautiful corner of the resort. The spacious spa area with its warm seawater pool and its incomparable views make a stay at the St. Regis Vommuli Resort unforgettable as it can be. Villingili Resort & Spa by Shangri-La 17,000 coconut palms, huge Banyan trees, 45 plant species and three freshwater lagoons enrich the extensive grounds of the Shangri-La BB´s Villingili Resort Spa. The still little-developed Addu Atoll enchants with untouched nature, an unspoiled underwater world and palm-fringed white beaches. In addition to its beauty and its luxurious equipment the luxury hotel stretches over six kilometres - a rare size for the usually smaller islands - and every guest receives a bike to use around the island. This is the only Maldives island with its own a 9-hole golf course. The villas of the Shangri-La BB´s Villingili Resort Spa are spread over the whole island and guests can choose beeteen romantic beachfront cottages, glamorous over water bungalows or even tree houses. Adventurers can dive around the beautiful house reef or explore the ship wreck not far away or take a trip on a 20 metre sailing yacht. The Shangri-La sets new culinary standards, with dishefrom the the Indian Ocean, the South China Sea or the Arabian Gulf to entice the palate and there are two bars at which you can enjoy exotic cocktails with great views over the lagoon.

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Hurawalhi Island Resort Opened in December 2016, the lush Hurawalhi Island Resort, in the Lhaviyani Atoll, is well abreast of environmental issues, but that doesn't mean it has skimped on lavishness. The adult-only resort (guests must be a minimum of 15 years old) features an undersea restaurant, a tropical champagne pavilion, spa, and a collection of 90 generously proportione ddesign-led villas strung across the glittering lagoon. The accommodation is perfectly positioned, to make the most of those jaw-dropping sunset panoramas. With a strong environmental focus, Hurawalhi uses solar panels, its own water-bottling plant, energy saving solutions, hot water recovery and even has an in-house marine biologist. Importantly, it is also collaborating with Manta Trust, the marine conservation and education specialists, to provide educational guided dives and snorkelling excursions to spectacular nearby reefs and shipwrecks. The island is a nesting site for green turtles and a breeding ground for manta rays which Manta Trust helps preserve as well as educating visitors on these endangered creatures. Carrying on the focus on nature, the Duniye Spa offers treatments based around the healing traditions of Asia and Africa, including the use of locally sourced ingredients. The ‘5.8’ Undersea Restaurant is an adventure in itself, so called because it is submerged almost six metres underwater. Surrounded by impressive marine views, the minimalist-designed restaurant focuses on romance – and every table is set just for two.

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Despite the influx of tourists, you can still experience the island dream that the Maldives is known for – you just need to know where to go.

BUDGET TRAVEL These glorious islands are no longer reserved for the rich and famous and Maldives can now also be enjoyed on a budget. In 2009, the Maldivian government allowed local residents to open their own guesthouses and restaurants to tourists. Previously travellers were limited to the resort islands, but now they can visit and stay on any local island. Homestays, hotels and guesthouses have started popping up everywhere. The facilities come in a full range – from basic to luxurious – including private beaches, swimming pools, diving schools, and spas. Despite the influx of tourists you can still experience the island dream that the Maldives is known for – you just need to know where to go.

Aveyla Manta Village Baa Atoll is known for superb marine life with regular sightings of magnificent manta rays and gentle whale sharks . This region is designated as a UNESCO marine bioreserve. Accessed via domestic flight, Dharavandhoo Island lets you truly get away from it all. Aveyla Manta Village is s one of the guesthouses that strives to achieve resort quality, while maintaining an authentic local feel unlike many guesthouses, the beachfront property offers an inhouse spa and a dive centre. Arena Beach Hotel Close to Male, Maafushi is one of the islands that has rapidly adopted the guesthouse habit, and offers a wide choice. This gives it a lively nighttime atmosphere compared to some of the other isolated islands. Arena Beach Hotel has 19 rooms with either sea or garden views. While at the more expensive end of the “budget” range, the hotel is located only steps from its own private beach where leisure activities like snorkeling and diving will allow you to explore its beauty. Maafushi Island is just a local ferry ride away from Male, so getting there is fairly easy and quite cheap. Maafushi has the most guesthouse beds of any local island, and therefore, offers the lowest room rates.

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The Amazing Noovilu Accessed easily via speedboat from the capital, Mahibadoo is in one of the very best atolls for marine life spotting and beautiful beach enjoyment. It is not the metropolis that Male is and at a mere fraction of resort prices could be the perfect way to experience the real Maldives. The small boutique guesthouse The Amazing Noovilu is only 3 minutes away from a beach with a beautiful reef and the five spacious rooms all have air conditioning and daily cleaning service. The garden leading into the guesthouse is shaded by small palms and banana trees, and there are lawn chairs and a small outdoor kitchenette. The island itself can be walked around in an afternoon. There are ATMs, small conveniences stores and plenty of coffee houses. Activities are the real treat, because the owner Mazin acts as your tour guide. He offers manta watching and whale shark snorkelling tours in his speedboat, offering a relaxed but essentially private-tour atmosphere. Thundi Guest House Thundi Guest House is located in the beautiful island of Fulidhoo in the Vaavu Atoll, 57 kilometres from Male. The island is just 675 metres long and 200 metres wide with a population of around four hundred. Despite its small size, Fulidhoo has a mosque, school, health centre, community centre, council offices and a number of general stores selling snacks and basic supplies. The sandy main street running down the centre of the island also has a number of souvenir shops selling colourful sarongs and dresses, but they only open twice a week when guests from a nearby resort come to visit. It’s entirely uncommercial with no restaurants or bars, but the guest house offers authentic local food. Vaavu Atoll can be reached by public ferry in about 3.5 hours and costs only a few Maledivian Rufiyaa. Thodoo Island Thoddoo island in the Ari Atoll is known throughout Maldivesin the country for its thriving plantation. One-third of the total area is agricultural and it is one of the largest exporters of fruits and vegetables in the Maldives. The island is larger than many, about 2 km in length and 1 km in width - so hiring a bike to explore it makes sense. Thick bushes grow along the coast and numerous pathways take you to the ocean. naturally, most people visit this part of Maldives for underwater adventures: there are several coral reefs located near the island, some only a short swimming distance away. Enthusiastic snorkellers will be in heaven here. Budget accommodation like the Serene sky Guest House or the Todhoo Retreat make the ideal base for discovering the area. Serene Guest house offers packages for all types of travellers -honeymooners, solo backpackers, families and divers can all find a deal perfectly adjusted to their needs. You can get to Thoddoo directly from Male in one hour by speed boat; the publiuc ferry takes four hours.

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Hotel transfers don’t usually excite most of us, but in the Maldives things are different.

TRANSPORTATION

WEATHER

Hotel transfers don’t usually excite most of us, but in the Maldives things are different. Forget long minibus rides from the airport or endless hours stuck in a taxi. The unique formation of this island nation means that to reach your exclusive resort you’ll need to cruise or fly. Some islands can only be reached by boat while some require a seaplane ride. But for others you’ll have the choice between the two.

As a tropical monsoon climate, the Maldives have plenty of sunshine with temperatures around 30°C throughout the year. The dry season is associated with dry northeast winter monsoons, has little rain and lower humidity and lasts from December to April. The rainy season (associated with humid southwest monsoons and strong winds and storms) from May to November is wetter, characterized by stronger winds and rain. For divers, both the dry and wet seasons have their advantages: during the dry season, visibility is superb, due to currents beginning to flow from the northeast in November.The currents start to weaken in February. During the wet season, the water temperatures are a couple of degrees lower. This seems to inspire entice larger numbers of hammerhead sharks and reef sharks to congregate, and to do so in shallower waters than in the dry season. Visibility isn't as good, however, as there are less currents. It is believed that the tourist season in Maldives lasts from November to April. At that time there are more sunny days and less overcast ones. But because of the El Nino influence and global warming the seasons have shifted. Nowadays it is sunniest in May-June. The best time to go to Maldives is from January to March. The catch ist the price - at this time the prices are the highest and there are practically no discounts. The so-called “low season” lasts from May till the end of October. During these months it is more likely to rain, but everything is relative because the weather is different on various atolls.

Speedboat Speedboats are the most cost-effective option and are usually included in your package costs. The process is effortless. Once you arrive at Male airport, your speedboat will arrive at the jetty just across the road from the terminal. Hop aboard, feel the wind in your hair and enjoy the anticipation of spotting your hotel coming into view. Speedboats are operated by individual resorts and come in various forms, but all offer a comfortable start to your holiday. Depending on the location of your resort, you’ll pass other islands en route – both resort islands and tiny uninhabited ‘picnic islands’ and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for dolphins. Seaplane A seaplane is far quicker at transporting you from A to B where 3 hour boat journeys are easily reduced to a 30-minute flight. The main reason to take a seaplane ride however is for the aerial views – it’s a thrilling excursion and a practical mode of travel in one. The seaplane terminal is just a short bus ride from the main airport, and seaplane charter flights depart at scheduled times during daytime. Seaplanes in the Maldives are small, and you’ll be enjoying this experience with a few other passengers travelling to/ from several resorts in the same area. Needless to say, your focus should be outside the windowas you soar over picture-perfect islands of all shapes and sizes and, as you climb higher, see the reefs, lagoons and atoll formations.

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Flying the Sussex Nest…

ussex-by-the-sea has its many charms; the sea, the rolling countryside, quaint little villages and action-packed towns and cities. It’s easy to have the perfect staycation in Sussex with so many adventures to be had right on your doorstep. However, if you want to escape to sunnier climes, then allow us to point you in the direction of a completely different sanctuary of enchanting colours and adventure; ‘Kurumba Maldives’, The Maldives’ very first private island resort. A whole new world to inhabit and explore, this 5 star resort’s peerless blend of luxury and tranquillity tempts many a visitor to its sandy shores time and time again.

Flights from Gatwick are 13.5 hours to Malé International Airport and so weary travellers will welcome Kurumba’s convenient location just 10 minutes from the airport. Upon reaching the resort and having received welcome refreshments from the staff, the journey will soon become a distant memory as you sink your feet into the powder soft sands and feast your eyes on the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, lush gardens ablaze with frangipani, hibiscus and bougainvillea stretch across the island and shady coconut groves loom over 180 luxury bungalows and villas.

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Feast your eyes on the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, lush gardens ablaze with frangipani, hibiscus and bougainvillea stretch across the island and shady coconut groves loom over 180 luxury bungalows and villas.

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Visitors certainly have their every need catered for with no less than nine categories of accommodation. What they all have in common is a fresh and modern design, plus plush state-of-the-art facilities. Whilst the introductory Superior and Deluxe rooms have a graceful contemporary Maldivian style with open air showers and sunny oceanside balconies, the resort’s signature Deluxe Bungalows and Deluxe Beachfront Bungalows each feature their very own private garden containing an outside shower and spacious decking veranda for sunset tipples. The bungalows themselves are hidden amongst the lush fragrant tropic flora just yards from the pure white beaches corralling the island. Each boasts a giant free-standing bathtub, a luxurious dual-basin bathroom, a glass-walled shower and a king-sized bed to collapse into after a hard days sunbathing If that isn’t enough to send you to seventh heaven, guests wanting even more luxury and privacy can opt for Kurumba villa rooms, starting with the Private Villa with Jacuzzi, and the Garden Pool Villas that offer plunge pools within your private open-plan courtyard with rain shower to cool off. Kurumba’s Deluxe Pool Villas are even more sumptuous with the additional luxuries of a large private pool with a waterfall, day bed and wooden terrace. For those who want a taste of the ultimate A-list lifestyle, the largest and most extravagant villa on the island is the Royal Kurumba Residence. Measuring a whopping 768 square metres in diameter and housing two bedrooms, two private pools, a huge living area and veranda, this opulent suite has played host to celebrities, local dignitaries and even heads of state. Well if you can’t beat them, join them!

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***** Our discerning Sussex foodies will be well-catered for with a total of 8 restaurants based within the resort, serving an eclectic selection of the world’s finest cuisines. Deciding whether to visit the main restaurant for unhurried all-day dining, savour far-eastern sushi and teppenyaki at the over-water Hamakaze or to feast within the palatial Lebanese décor of Al Qasr is not an easy decision. Making a choice between the delicious Indian, Chinese and Italian menus of Mahal, East and Duo, respectively, is equally difficult. For guests who want to season their meals with a pinch of Maldives romance, Thila offers a unique beachfront setting in which to dine; relish the finest grilled seafood by candlelight surrounded by a panoramic vista of the ocean. Finally, those wishing to make the most of their private garden, balcony or hired yacht can request an intimate dining experience for two. For those social butterflies that are looking for more of party atmosphere, the resort features three bars: Kalhu, for karaoke kings, Athiri, set on the beaches for the best sunsets and the lively Beach Bar, where guests can share a cocktail and convo in the company of live bands and local dance acts. No resort is complete without a spa and Kurumba certainly delivers on that front. Surrounded by soothing reflection ponds, the Veli Spa is an oasis of serenity in the heart of the island. Here, guests can enjoy a dedicated yoga session, unwinding in the relaxation lounge, de-stressing in the single or couples treatment rooms or indulging in reflexology and exotic body wraps and polishes. For a more romantic experience “The Spa Under the Stars” offers couples a chance to watch the sunset whilst enjoying a unique cowrie shell massage using local hand-pressed Coconut oil.

No resort is complete without a spa and Kurumba certainly delivers on that front. Surrounded by soothing reflection ponds, the Veli Spa is an oasis of serenity in the heart of the island.

Life at the Kurumba Resort isn’t just for the sun and spa-seekers – the sporting and adventurous amongst us have a whole smorgasbord of activities to entertain. The Sports Centre offers a fully-equipped gym, pool, and three floodlit tennis courts and if water sports are your passion the Dive School offers a full range of PADI diving courses. Explore the spectacular dive sites of The Maldives as dazzling shoals of iridescent tropical fish, (friendly!) reef sharks, manta ray and turtles wait to greet you. Once you’ve met the fishy locals, try your hand at Kayaking, water-skiing, windsurfing and parasailing at the spectacular Water Sports Centre and keep the littl’uns entertained with the Fun Tubes and Banana Rodeos. This is all in addition to a wide-range of fascinating local excursions including a Sand Bank Picnic, the ever popular sunset cruises and even night-fishing under the stars. They say that everywhere is nice, but home is best. But if you fancy an escapade and swapping your cup of tea for a tantalising cocktail, your cosy armchair for a luxury sunbed next to a warm glistening shore and your bathtub for an alfresco shower amongst tropical foliage, then the Kurumba Resort is the perfect heavenly retreat to get that extra slice of luxury.

FACT BOX

www.kurumba.com

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P40 PEOPLE40CEAN

SPF 30 SUNSCREEN BROAD SPECTRUM

FACE & BODY 5 HOURS WATER RESISTANT l'AAABEN & OXYBENZONE FREE BIODEGRADABLE

LAGAIA UNEOlTED SUNSCREEN FOR LIFE AUST L296l70

lOOML I 6.76 FL.OZ

P40 PEOPLE40CEAN

AFTER SUN SOLUTION 3 IN 1

SOOTHING HYDRATION 100% ORGANIC ALOE VERA PARABEN & SILICON FREE BIODEGRADABLE

LA.GA.IA UNEDITED FACE & BODY

200tv1L I 6.76 FL.OZ

ALL NATURAL SUN SYSTEM Enjoy the benefits of broad s pectrum UV protection without harmful chemicals. Our sun system is fre e of coral & skin damaging ingredients and is b iod e gradable in aquatic systems. One dollar per product donated to coral cons ervation. Learn more at www .people4oc ean.co.uk

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Mad e for People4Ccean by Lagaia Unedited

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Making Moments n Time A luxurious one-island-one-resort destination featuring a collection of 120 idyllic beach-front pool villas, breathtaking overwater villas and spacious twobedroom villas. Only 20 minutes’ speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, barefoot luxury and the stunning beauty of Maldives awaits you

Booking tip -Plan and book your dream holiday with minimum 30 days in advance and enjoy a 35% discount on Best Available Rates

+960 6651111 | rsvn.gpkd@parkhotelgroup.com www.parkhotelgroup.com/en/maldives @grandparkkodhipparu

K U R A M A T H I I S L A N D R E S O R T S www.kuramathi.com

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cross the sky-blue waters of the Indian Ocean lies an island renowned for its natural beauty; Kuramathi Island Resort. From the 1 km long sandbank that extends from the tip of the resort to the stunning house reef with promising encounters and its wide sweeping beaches offering panoramic views of the ocean, this is a majestic paradise. Upon arrival you will feel like you are on a remote island. However, this resort is easily accessible as transfers from Male International Airport take just 20 minutes by seaplane and 90 minutes via speedboat. How you choose to spend your time on this magical island is up to you. Whether you want peace and quiet whiling away hours in the spa and lazing in the tropical sun, adventure exploring the natural majesty of the Indian Ocean, glamour socialising with fine food and good company, sipping a cocktail by the ocean’s edge, Kuramathi Island Resort will undoubtedly be an unforgettable memory. Villa accommodation on the island blends contemporary design and nature. Choose from Garden Villas and Beach Villas nestled in lush vegetation, Deluxe Beach Jacuzzi Villas that face the lagoon and new Sunset Pool Villas. The new twobedroom Beach Houses are expansive duplex-style villas with separate living spaces, located just a stone’s throw away from the water’s edge and able to accommodate up to six adults; ideal for a getaway with friends or a family holiday. Alternatively, couples can find complete bliss in Deluxe Water Villas and Water Villas with a pool, both featuring spacious bathrooms with glass-paned doors leading out on to the expansive sundeck over turquoise waters. Mirrored on the west side of the island, the Sunset Water Villas, with a pool, are just steps away from the resort’s iconic sandbank, perfect for a romantic stroll. Sunset Pool Villas inhabit the beachfront, each boasting endless views direct from the bedroom to the azure sea, a luxurious bathroom with freestanding bath and outdoor rain shower, and a sundeck inset with 18sqm private infinity pool. For added pleasure, all of the new villas also include expanded mini bars with a winechiller housing over 30 hand-selected, international wines, perfect for total indulgence or a festive toast.

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Dining options are diverse and All Inclusive guests are allocated a buffet restaurant determined by the location of their villa. If you book the Select All Inclusive package, you’ll have the option to eat at other restaurants offering a great choice of cuisine. The resort boasts an impressive nine à la carte restaurants all offering diverse culinary experiences. A firm favourite with visitors is the classic Reef restaurant, known for its seafood dishes and the fresh catch of the day concept showcasing reef fish such as grouper, mahi mahi, rainbow runner, red snapper and trevallies. It is located on the lagoon side of the island, set in splendid grandeur over water. The middle of the restaurant is truly unique with teppanyaki grills on the left and right-hand side; a new dining experience named Kobe offering authentic Japanese cuisine and finery of cooking meats and vegetables on an iron grill. The al-fresco terraced restaurant Inguru offers stunning views over the ocean and enticing light dining options during the day and Asian fusion cuisine at night. Perhaps the most exciting and majestic new addition to the resort is the Champagne Loft, overlooking the splendid Indian Ocean. Adding to the many bars located throughout Kuramathi Island, Champagne Loft is a special place for couples to drink a glass of Champagne from an eclectic selection of over 45 varieties. Furnished with an elegant ambience and interior; local architecture is inspired and infused with a contemporary touch. Chic furnishings are splayed around the lounge from comfortable loungers to wooden tables that can seat small groups.

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There are activities a-plenty available at the resort. If the adventurer in you is keen to explore, exciting times lie ahead as you travel to the mysterious aquatic realm of the Maldives without even dipping a toe in the water! A brand new red semi-submarine seating 12 offers the chance to sight the beauty of the famed prime dive/snorkelling spot of Madivaru twice a week. A variety of water sports, diving and excursions are also available. The house reef offers hours of adventurous snorkelling and when you have had enough of being active, try some of the innovative therapies available at the spa for ultimate relaxation. The staff at the resort are truly customer satisfaction focused and experts in their respective fields. They offer a welcoming and friendly service and are there to cater to your every need. Add to all these luxurious faciites, amenities such as the Bageecha kids club, a sports centre, gym, swimming pools, medical centre with hyperbaric chamber, Eco Centre, boutiques, laundry, library, wi-fi internet and you have the perfect blend to create a retreat that offers unique experiences for everyone in a natural setting.

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The staff at the resort are truly customer satisfaction focused and experts in their respective fields.

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Voted 2015 World Luxury Spa Awards as Best Luxury Resort Spa - country winner and surrounded by soothing reflection ponds, the resort’s Veli Spa is an oasis of serenity in the heart of the island.

With a total of eight restaurants based within the resort, each offering an eclectic selection of the world’s finest cuisines, thoroughly spoilt guests are well catered for. Deciding whether to visit the main restaurant for unhurried all-day dining, to savour far- Eastern sushi and teppenyaki at the over-water Hamakaze or to feast within the palatial Lebanese décor of Al Qasr is not an easy decision to make. Making a choice between the delicious Indian, Chinese and Italian menus of Mahal, East and Duo, respectively, is equally as difficult. For guests who want to season their meals with a pinch of Maldives romance, Thila offers a unique beachfront setting in which to dine; relish the finest grilled seafood by candlelight surrounded by a panoramic vista of the ocean. Finally, those wishing to make the most of their private garden, balcony or hired yacht can request an intimate dining experience for two. The resort features three bars: Kalhu, for karaoke kings, Athiri, set on the beaches for the best sunsets and the lively Beach Bar, where guests can share a cocktail and convo in the company of live bands and local dance acts. Voted 2015 World Luxury Spa Awards as Best Luxury Resort Spa – country winner and surrounded by soothing reflection ponds, the resort’s Veli Spa is an oasis of serenity in the heart of the island. Here, guests can enjoy a dedicated yoga session, unwinding in the relaxation lounge, destressing in the single or couples treatment rooms or indulging in reflexology and exotic body wraps and polishes. For a more romantic experience ‘The Spa Under the Stars’ offers couples a chance to watch the sunset whilst enjoying a unique cowrie shell massage using local handpressed Coconut oil.

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An elegant and unique Maldives resort, Maafushivaru is an island that epitomises all that one dreams of when dreaming of the Maldives. Located in the pristine South Ari Atoll, Maafushivaru is 350 metres in length and walkable in just over 10 minutes. Oozing with small island charm, this world-class resort is characterised by lush vegetation and it’s surroundings of powder-white soft sand and a house reef that a myriad of tropical fish call home.

Aimed at couples seeking romance, the stunning five-star Maafushivaru resort has recently completed a full renovation and the the team are looking forward to welcoming guests when they are able to travel. The team at Maafushivaru embrace a collective aim to ensure guests make memories that will be forever cherished. The resort offers an experience that respectively combines a Maldives from times-gone-by with the contemporary luxuries of the present, distinguishing it from other Maldives resorts.

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aafushivaru is the first long-haul DER Touristik Hotels & Resorts, under the lti brand, to launch in 16 years and will do so across Germany, Switzerland, Austria and the UK, Maafushivaru will be exclusive to DER Touristik’s tour operator brands (DERTOUR, Meiers Weltreisen, ITS Reisen, JAHN Reisen, Kuoni UK and Switzerland as well as Manta Reisen in Switzerland). Guests arriving at this unique resort can expect the highest levels of service, fine dining, brand-new rooms and an atmosphere of total relaxation. The 81 new guest villas, include Beach Villas, Beach Pool Villas and Duplex Pool Villas, each with a spacious design and an abundance of chic touches and must-have mod-cons. The entry-level Beach Villas feature private sea facing sun decks and semi-open garden bathrooms with rainfall showers; whilst those wanting their very own hideaway can opt for the Beach Villa with Pool which includes a private plunge pool overlooking the sparkling Indian Ocean. Capturing the true flavour of The Maldives, Maafushivaru brings fine-dining to this paradise setting at the striking Moodhu Grill, lti Maafushivaru’s signature restaurant. Offering fresh meat and seafood with a range of dishes from its tandoor oven, Moodhu’s delectable

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dining choices and stunning sea views make this is a must-visit at the resort, while Umi provides an over water teppanyaki experience, Cielo, set above the Water Bar is an all-day dining restaurant with a Mediterraneanfeel menu. Poolside, Las Tapas, will present lighter lunchtime bites, while Water Bar offers refreshing drinks overlooking the turquoise waters and Cuisine Gallery offers Mediterranean cuisine infused with local and regional flavours. Perfect for foodies, the island offers Half Board, Half Board Plus* and Dine Around All Inclusive**, all of which offer a perfect chance to dine in luxury and experience a delectable range of dishes from around the world and closer to home. Half Board includes breakfast and dinner at the Cuisine Gallery, Half Board Plus additionally includes a wide range of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages including selected international branded spirits, an extensive cocktail list and a selection of bottled wines. Other benefits offered in the plan include complimentary snorkelling equipment and non-motorised water sports. Guests wishing to have the fullest experience at Maafushivaru can choose DineAround All Inclusive which also includes breakfast at the Cuisine Gallery, with lunch and dinner at any of the operational à la carte restaurants on the island.

Guests arriving at this unique resort can expect the highest levels of service, fine dining, brand-new rooms and an atmosphere of total relaxation.

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Although most guests are inclined to explore and island hop, Maafushivaru has ensured that everything you could possibly need is available right there on your doorstep. An infinity edged fibre-optic lit swimming pool is available for guests who prefer a dip in the cool fresh water and for those who fancy curling up with a book, a library lounge is available, featuring a coffee/tea service with books and magazines in different languages, and board games. You will find many places overlooking the azure seas to relax and curl up with a favourite book, including a sundeck that doubles up as a great spot for a private dinner. A complimentary Wi-Fi internet service is available in certain public areas And for those who enjoy a spot of retail therapy or just need a few essentials, ‘The Boutique’ offers a wide selection of souvenirs, local items, toiletries and beach wear.

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A truly unique jewel in this Maldivian treasure is Lonubo, the resort’s private castaway island, just 500m from the shores if the resort For the daring and raring to go, a whole range of diving and snorkelling trips are available to guests, as well as fishing, visits to local islands and romantic cruises at sunset. Maafushivaru’s transformation has been fundamentally linked to its stunning surrounds and the conservation and protection of these have been at the forefront of the development throughout. The marine world that surrounds the lti hotel can be best described as utterly sublime, with an array of flourishing and vibrant marine life. It’s easy to spot a shark or two, and you might just bump into a whale shark during one of the snorkelling trips organised by the island, led by our resident Marine Biologist. Those looking for adventure can explore life below the waves with the Dive Center at Maafushivaru, which offers PADI qualifications and courses for all levels from beginners to experienced divers. Diving is spectacular around lti Maafushivaru Maldives, with several dive sites promising big fish encounters, colourfully complete with coral gardens, in warm temperate waters that provide excellent visibility. A truly unique jewel in this Maldivian treasure is Lonubo, the resort’s private castaway island, just 500m from the shores if the resort, Lonubo offers guests the opportunity to experience the Maldives as it once was, a true utopia, unencumbered by the modern world, but with the comfort for its luxuries. Ringed by a lively coral reef and with a verdant interior, concealing a villa for two, a picnic on this paradise isle can be capped with a private dinner or even a spa treatment for the ultimate getaway. Come the end of the day, be sure to visit the Océane Spa; a truly natural well-being experience. Situated on a quiet corner of the island on its own jetty, the spa is the place where inner beauty is blended with the beauty of the landscape. Each treatment on offer is individually designed to help you realise your ultimate state of wellbeing. The extensive menu offers signature couples therapies as well as single massages, facial and body treatments, using VOYA’s organic skincare line and Yonka products for skin care.

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The marine world that surrounds the lti hotel can be best described as utterly sublime

A range of Spa care programs are also available and can be personalised, depending on the length of stay and tailored to each guests’ needs. The full refurbishment and transformation of this exquisite island, while maintaining the unique properties of the original resort has resulted in a perfect synthesis of nature and indulgence; a paradise reimagined and it’s ready for you.

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Everyone needs nature Please give or join today: nationaltrust.org.uk © National Trust 2020. Registered charity no. 205846. Photography © National Trust Images/Mick Jones

Absolute Escapes Travel Edition 2021

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MAAFUSHIVARU MALDIVES

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KEMPINSKI 7 PINES IBIZA

CAFE MAMBO IBIZA

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DARWIN FOREST LODGES

SIR JOAN IBIZA

VISIT IBIZA

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