THE ROMANCE ISSUE by BEACH TOMATO

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

February, the month of love. Or so they say. My opinion is that February has nothing else going for it (cold, damp, dark, hey it is even supposed to snow in London this week), so something nice has to happen in to cheer us all up. Well, always ones for cheering up at Beach Tomato, this issue is dedicated purely to the world of romance. Cynics, don’t be put off, we are not talking lovey dovey, hallmark romance, but intrepid, lets-visit-abeach romance (seriously, what did you expect?).

mean feat. With a world full of idyllic and exotic locations (not to mention we know that travel is all about different courses for horses), there was much deliberation around this. But, this is a starting place to inspire you and, what’s better, is they are some of the best places to visit in the world whether you are honeymooning or not. Ensure you come back over the fortnight for regulars such as Beach of the Week, The Beach House and Insiders’ Beach Love as well exciting exclusives such as our fashion shoot with Leah Weller that was shot by Iain McKell. Our 5 best ways to prepare yourself to look picture perfect and utterly irresistible on the beach (we have some serious beauty tricks for perfect tousled hair and flawless skin up our sleeve). If you are off on that holiday with your new other half (or are simply looking to pick up), we have the ultimate guide to beachwear that will help you impress him/her. Yes boys, your board shorts from 7 years ago need an upgrade before you ask.

Before I divulge the treats in store for you, let me tell you about a few changes here at Beach Tomato. Don’t panic, we aren’t going off radar, just mixing it up a little. Instead of our beachfilled issues hitting you every other Tuesday, we are going a little more daily. Dictated by fortnightly themes (hence romance this fortnight), each and every day you can get a little chunk of beach right at your desk/wherever your computer may be. So, tune in daily for some escapism, we ensure you shall never be bored. Missed the fortnight? Luckily for you we are popping all our issues content in a flip mag at the end of the week so that you never We hope that you all have wonderful fortnights miss an issue again (we know how upsetting this and whether you are true romantics or utter can be). cynics find some beach love in this issue. First up this fortnight is a guide to the best honeymoon destinations in the world. This was no 2

Lots of love,

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

4 :: HONEYMOON HOTSPOTS

13 :: BEACH LOVE

15 :: COMING UP ROSES

16 :: THE BEACH HOUSE

20 :: PREP SQUAD

26 :: THE GLASS MENAGERIE

36 :: DRESS TO IMPRESS

40 :: PRINCESS LEAH

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THE ROMANCE ISSUE

Deciding where to go on honeymoon is the first incredibly serious subject posed upon plunging

HONEYMOON

HOTSPOTS 4

into married life… Thankfully, we’ve thought long and hard on your behalf and come up with some of the most idyllic honeymoons we could muster to make sure you’re fist steps as Mr and Mrs are filled with nothing but martial bliss. From from an exotic break in Kerala, India and secluded stretches of untouched sand upon private islands to spiritual retreats and world class spas, we’ve got options enough to please the most demanding of newly-wedded couples.

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

EMBUDHUFUSHI AND OLHUVELI ISLANDS, MALDIVES WHY: Images of shallow lagoon waters, colourful tropical fish, over-water villas and countless beaches of fine white sand spring to mind when we picture the Maldives. Resorts in these waters know how to treat loved-up couples and will go allout to make youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re your honeymoon is everything you dreamed of.

WHEN: Between December and early April, when even the occasional shower is a rare occurrence.

But the Maldives are generally thought of as having year-round sunshine.

WHERE TO STAY: As we write, the hardworking folk at Niyama are adding the finishing touches to their brand new resort, due to open in March. With a 24hour spa offering up some of the most indulgent treatments imaginable, Niyama understands the need for a spot of pampering at any time of the day or night. Plan scuba trips that will blow your mind, laze all day in the sun, then dine on the freshest seafood in the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s floating restaurant. 5

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KERALA, INDIA WHY:

WHERE TO STAY:

Surrounded by coconut groves

and golden sands, Neeleshwar Cottages provide Palm-fringed

beaches

and

serene the perfect setting for a holistic honeymoon.

backwaters that wind their way through sleepy Choose your room according to a variety of towns and deserted woodlands, as the sights,

different emotions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from Prema (love), to

sounds and flavours of India come together in Sukha (happiness), or Ananda (bliss). Book in for a heady romantic fusion that will have you both

private yoga classes and perfect your meditation

sighing into your bahjees.

technique amid the soothing landscape. Boasting

WHEN: This region sees a fair amount of rain so do check your timings carefully. For a dose of welldeserved sun, visit between March and June. 6

some of regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most spectacular sunsets, this is a great spot to sit back and soak up the serenity.

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CON DAO, VIETNAM WHY:

WHERE TO STAY: Backed by mangrove forests and boasting stunning views out over the East Vietnam

With new direct flights to Vietnam, the

Sea, Con Dao Six Senses’ oceanfront villas come

South East Asian country is at the top of 2012’s

with their own private infinity pool, outdoor rain

destination

country’s

shower, beachfront terrace and personal butler.

sapphire oceans, vanilla-hued sands and truly

Whilst most newlyweds will relish the chance

delish cuisine together.

to finally show off their bikini bodies and leave

musts.

Discover

the

WHEN: This 16-island archipelago is close enough

all thoughts of the gym behind, Con Dao offers lifestyle and wellness counselling, as well as

to the equator to remain pretty balmy throughout beach yoga, meditation and an extensive list of much of the year, with temperatures averaging at

spa treatments. So you’re likely to return home

about 27 °C. But, if you really want to play it safe,

the healthiest newlyweds in all the land.

head out between January and June for non-stop sunshine. 7

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GREAT MERCURY ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND

November and March for the best of New

WHY: For an exciting action-packed honeymoon,

and October if you don’t mind a slight chill in the

we’ve located the perfect adventure playground sitting just off the coast of New Zealand’s North Island. Guaranteed to satisfy your every thrillseeking need, this private patch of land goes by the name of Great Mercury Island and offers over 50 miles of pristine coastline for you to explore however you see fit.

WHEN: Head out in the summer months between 8

Zealand’s weather, or a little later between March air.

WHERE TO STAY: Sleeping

up to 16 guests in a

small range of eco-chic accommodations, Great Mercury Island is the ideal honeymoon hideout. Explore the underwater scenery on a scuba adventure or try your hand at sea kayaking, wind surfing or jet skiing. Of course, if you did just want to spend your days sunbathing, we promise we won’t tell a soul.

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GALLE, SRI LANKA

carefully before packing your bags. For a sun-

WHY: We’re not afraid to admit it: on honeymoon

and March.

more than ever, the idea of sharing our precious

WHERE TO STAY:

space with too many other sand-stealing couples – or god forbid, families – fills us with dread. Thankfully, we’ve found the ideal stretch of isolated sand sitting on the southwest tip of Sri Lanka. With just 12 suites on offer on this particular private beach, you’ll never have to sneak down and reserve your sun lounger.

WHEN: This area receives the highest rainfall in

drenched sojourn, head off between December

One of Sri Lanka’s very best

boutique hotels, Aditya’s secluded oceanfront suites tick all our honeymoon boxes. Named not numbered, the suites here offer a range of different design features, from tropical gardens, to split level rooms and sunken bathtubs. Come night time, head out to your private candle-lit plunge pool with a chilled bottle of champagne for a late-night (skinny?) dip under the stars.

Sri Lanka so make sure to check your timings 9

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CAMPS BAY, SOUTH AFRICA

of four seasons appearing in just one day. From

WHY: If you like your sea views served up with a

the sun shines pretty much all day, every day.

little something extra, South Africa’s Camps Bay

WHERE TO STAY:

will fulfil your honeymoon fantasies. Set at the base of Table Mountain, this little corner of the globe comes with a pretty impressive backdrop and, luckily, some of the best beaches about.

WHEN: The weather here does have a reputation for being a little changeable, with locals warning

November to March, though, you needn’t worry as

Boasting both mountain and

ocean views, the deluxe suites at POD are our top choice for cinema-worthy scenery. Inside, massive bedroom areas lead into equally massive bathrooms, featuring walk-in rain showers and oversized tubs. Out on your private terrace you’ll find a secluded pool perched overlooking the ocean – perfect for a sunset soak before bed.

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CAYO ESPANTO, BELIZE

odd hurricane between August and October. Jet

WHY: It’s your honeymoon – if all you want is to

soaked island paradise.

be completely spoiled, that’s ok. Be completely

WHERE TO STAY: There’s

indulged on the super-luxe island of Cayo Espanto, just off the coast of Belize, for a little slice of newlywed heaven. Measuring just four acres in total, every grain of sand on this private island is exclusive and washed by the warmest of Caribbean waters.

WHEN: With

a year round sub-tropical climate,

Belize can see quite a bit of rain, as well as the

off from December to May to experience a sun-

just the one resort on

this tiny Island with only seven beach villas to choose from. But, for those looking for something really special, we’d recommend you push the boat out with the island’s only over-water bungalow. Suspended over the sea at the end of a 150-foot dock and decorated with custom-made furnishings, this is one of the most intimate and romantic rooms we’ve ever clapped eyes on. 11

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SARDINIA, ITALY WHY: For all you foodies out there, we’ve found WHERE TO STAY:

Set yourself up in one of La

a little culinary gem sitting on the shores of Coluccia’s gorgeous guest rooms before heading northern Sardinia. Actually closer to Africa than

down for a romantic dinner served up alongside

Italy, this beautiful island enjoys some of the best

stunning water views. With an in-house menu

weather in the Med, with statuesque architecture, that could keep us occupied for weeks, there’s alongside golden sand and bright blue waters.

WHEN: Like most of Europe, the best time to visit is

little need to venture off this gorgeous corner of coastline. If you do feel the urge to explore, hire a car and head off to discover the island’s many

between May and August – although it does stay little villages or put your sea legs to work on a hot here into September if you’re searching out sailing day trip to uncover some of Sardinia’s some late summer sun. 12

prettiest coves and remote beaches.

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

THE BEST ROSE-BASED BEAUTY PRODUCTS Leave the Valentines clichĂŠ of a dozen red roses to a pretty face. From nourishing moisturisers to the unimaginative romantics. In actual fact, with

a balm for utterly kissable lips, we have picked

its anti-ageing, toning, plumping and softening the best in rose-infused beauty to leave your skin properties, the flower of love is more than just date (or on the pull) ready.

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

THE

BEACH HOUSE 16

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

ALILA ULUWATU VILLAS, BALI

arrangement), and leave cocktail-making to your

WHERE:

outdoor rain shower as the sun sets? We promise

Sex-on-stilts on the southern coast of

Bali’s Bukhit Peninsula, Alila Uluwatu Villas sits atop a limestone plateau and is a contemporarychic, cross-continental pad of luxury where only the finest of the fine stay. And yes, that could be you. Only fifteen minutes from Jimbaran Bay and half an hour from Ngurah International Airport, it couldn’t be easier to. Well, comparatively.

WHAT: As far as views go, this one is A-Okay with us. Simply lounge beside your private plunge pool in your own cabana (cabana boy by previous

villa’s butler. Feeling frisky? Why not try out the no one will look. Unless you want them too (that’s also by previous arrangement).

WHY:

Way back in 1956, Harriet Van Horne wrote

in Vogue, “Cooking is like love, it should be entered into with abandon or not at all.” Who are we to argue? Sign up for Alila’s Culinary Journey, where you’ll be taken to local markets and then instructed on how to take the spice from the bedroom to the kitchen with a cooking lesson. Plus, everyone knows that a way into a man’s heart is through his stomach. 17

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SEX ON STILTS

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

THE FACTS:

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

WAYS TO LOOK PERFECT ON THE BEACH...

ooking perfectly sun-kissed, naturally sweaty red face and more orange peel than we are dishevelled

and

effortlessly

chic happy with. Until you know how to faux it, that is.

should be what being at the beach is The beach faux is all in the prep, so hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Beach all about. Sadly, for us mere mortals Tomatoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guide to looking effortlessly hot, the way this translates to a frizzy barnet, a

that nature (should have) intended.

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

A beach retreat is all about rocking an effortless

skin tone, large pores or fine lines, they’ll get your

sans make up look. Easier said than done – skin in tip-top-dare-to-go-bare shape. getting picture perfect, poreless, lineless, flawless Facials available from £129 at EF MediSpa skin requires some serious dedication. Cue EF MediSpa, the ultimate experts and a one stop

DIY: StriVectin is hailed as the scientific skincare

shop for all your skin needs. Be organised and brand to cure any of your skin irks du jour. head spa-side three months before you plan on

Eradicate dullness, shrink pores and even out

going bare, in this time these beauty experts will

your skin texture while you get your zzz’s with

create a bespoke package to address all your skin SriVectin’s Overnight Facial Resurfacing Serum, problems – be it acne, scarring, redness, uneven

£51.

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If the thought of humidity teamed with obligatory So, emerge from the sea and frolic in the humidity ocean dips fills your barnet with holiday-frizz-

while sporting the ultimate beach locks that mere

fear, you’re not alone. Well, thanks to the Kebelo mortal products just can’t buy. System, £199, you can leave your bags of serums, sprays, mousses and mists at home (plus, you’ll

DIY: It’s no secret that sun, sea and chlorine take

have more room to pack those extra bikinis).

its tole on your fair locks. To ensure you don’t

Unlike conventional Brazilian blow drys, The

return home beautiful and golden, but with straw

Kebelo system does not leave you with poker upon your head, build up your hairs strength and straight locks, but instead gives you a better eliminate split ends before you go with Kerastase’s version of your current hair – basically sans frizz. new star product, Fibre Architecte.

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

It’s no secret that long luscious eyelashes make

just longer, curlier, fuller and all around better.

you look more awake, feminine and, well, just Farewell mascara. Farewell high maintenance. prettier. However, trend-of-the-moment, eyelash Hello looking “naturally” better. Sue, you’re a extensions aren’t particularly swimming and

saviour.

heat friendly (not to mention they can be a little Available at Cosmetics a la Carte, from £140 more TOWIE that Brazilian goddess). For those who want “eyes that pop”, without the faff of

DIY: No time for the full works? To faux your own

extensions, you need to book an appointment with way, ensure you dye your eyelashes the darkest eyelash guru Sue Marsh immediately. With her colour your complexion can take. Eylure Eyelash incredible eyelash lift, expect your own lashes, Dye, £7.40

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

A mani/pedi is generally part of most girls’ also withstanding surfing, hiking, a daily swim, 30 beach prep. However, after a flight, transfer,

hours on a flight, the odd drunken night and, the

a few beach side cocktails and a dip in the sea, biggest test of all, buckets of pistachio nuts. 10 it is near impossible to keep chips at bay. Well, out of 10 for the best long lasting manicure. In the at Beach Tomato we see it as our responsibility world. Ever. to trial many beauty treatments to tell you what actually works and, well, we were just blown away

DIY: To keep your nails long, strong and in tip top

by the Urban Retreat’s Everlasting Manicure and condition, Butter London’s horse power, £18.50

Pedicure, £55. Editor Kirsty tried this for her trip

to the rescue. It even doubles up as a base and

to Malaysia and it lasted not just a month, but

top coat.

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According to a recent survey, donning a bikini in the most effective. With dry brushing, a seaweed front of your man (or anybody for that matter) mask, a wrap and a rubdown (!), you walk away gives 84% of women holiday fear. It is true, being practically naked with lumps and bumps is a

slender, smooth and ready to flash that flesh.

daunting prospect. Luckily, the beauty industry

DIY:

has caught onto women’s insecurity and there are

supplements, £95, are a great way to take matters

Functionlab

Trimming

and

Toning

treatments galore to slim you down before you into your own hand. A course for 30 days helps have to bare all. Widely coveted, cult spa Bliss’ burn fat and increase collagen synthesis. All in all fatgirlslim treatment, £127, is praised as one of you are thinner and younger. Sign us up.

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

Photography by AMAYA DUCRU CLOUTHIER Styling by KATIE YIANNAKIS

Leggy Scandi blondes and sultry Brazilians… Whatever. We’ve turned to a new breed of (porcelain) model to showcase this season’s prettiest jewellery designs.

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

THE BEST SWIMWEAR FOR WOMEN

TO IMPRESS

MEN... 36

et’s be honest here: Everyone cares about looking hot on the beach. And when we say hot, we mean smokin’. Without comparing you to live bait, your seaside get-up should be a-lure-ing (sorry) enough to catch the right kind of fish (not sharks). So whether your bikini tastes run toward the effortlessly chic like Rosie Huntington-Whitely and Sienna Miller, or towards the classically glamorous like Grace Kelly or Marion Cotillard, read on for our tips on what to wear to impress the opposite sex on the beach…

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High-waisted retro shapes add a touch of old world With loose, tousled waves, golden skin and charm to seaside lounging. Team with a pair of nonchalantly mis-matched bikinis, Sienna, Rosie wing-tipped sunglasses for an unmistakable dose Huntington-Whiteley are the poster girls for of glamour. Who said less is more? Take a note effortless beach chic. Take their lead and mix-up out of style icon Florence’s book and add a turban your bikinis and style with boho accessories. for a look that Grace Kelly would approve of.

Make like Megan Fox and out-hot the sun in a

Keep shapes simple and clean and go all-out

fierce We Are Handsome one-piece that could

with an in-season print. Mungo Gurney’s one-

frighten the sharks out of the sea (in a good way) shouldered one-piece will have every girl green and turn heads in your direction. Paint your talons

with envy and catch every guys eye, what’s more

in a saucy shade of blood red. You’re no shrinking it will take you seamlessly from the beach to the violet after all.

bar. Win win. 37

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

THE BEST SWIMWEAR

FOR MEN

TO IMPRESS

WOMEN... 38

omen are fickle creatures. One minute they want us looking like Daniel Craig in Bond, sporting the tiniest of men’s swim trunks, then, we’re supposed to channel a more rough ‘n’ ready, Hugh Jackman vibe. It’s not easy. And the main thing is, you wanna have bikini-clad babes giving you a mental ‘10’ as you walk by. Anyone who says differently is lying. Or really ugly. So, whether you want to go down the route of suave trunk masters like Jude Law in The Talented Mr Ripley or work a more laid-back beachy look, here’s our fool proof guide to what men’s swimwear to wear on the beach to impress the ladeez.

THE ROMANCE ISSUE

The key to this look is a fairly tightly-wired rig. As Pared-back, easy elegance is the key here. in, a good set of pecs will make almost anything Leave the lurid boardies at home (or burn them, work. Alpha male Steve McQueen is the poster whatever), and stick to classic, “Cary Grant boy for this look – nonchalant and undeniably would”, styles. Team with timeless shades and a cool. This look goes with a swagger, not a strut.

straw hat for an easy formula for cool.

If you’re going to make like Matthew McConaughey

It’s no wonder Tom Ripley stole Dickie Greenleaf’s

and use the beach as your workout space, you life in The Talented Mr Ripley – we would too to need to look the part. This requires a certain look that good lounging by the Med. Keep the degree of butchness and style. Sporty stripes and

trunks on the short side of things and wear with a

clean white look equal ready for a spirited game

golden tan. It’s ok to get a spray before you go, the

of Frescobol (perfect for showing off hand-eye

ladies prefer it when you’re not the same colour

coordination in close proximity to your prey).

as your yacht. 39

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DRESS: AQUA BRACELETS: GINA STEWART COX 40

THE ROMANCE ISSUE