Hot Brands Cool Places The Travel Issue Feb 2015

HOT BRANDS COOL PLACES TRAVEL CULTURE LIFESTYLE

V A S LE P N E T C I IA N L E

FEBRUARY 2015

The Travel Issue

EDITOR’S LETTER Welcome to our Travel Issue, full of wonderful places to escape if you are planning a Spring, Summer or Autumn break!

Our Directory showcases some very inspiring companies and in this issue we have interviews with three Directors/Founders from our collection: Debbie Allen, Founder of Red Hen Simon Meeke, Marketing Director, Powder Byrne Loic Robertson, Director of Digital and Marketing, Audley Travel This month we also share the findings from CARRIER with the launch of TRAVEL: THE LUXE LIFE- illustrating how Lifestyle preferences, not just destinations, are inspiring holiday choices in 2015.

If you are still looking for something special for Valentine’s Day, we have a fabulous collection in our Valentine’s Day Gift Guide.

We also have our usual Beauty Round-up full of gorgeous ideas for Valentine’s Day. Finally we have a bumper selection of books recently published.

We also have new discoveries every week in our Directory and regular tweets.

Do take the time to drop by!

Until the next time……. www.hotbrandscoolplaces.com https://twitter.com/Hotbrands Picture Credits Front cover image courtesy of Powder Byrne http://www.powderbyrne.com/ Other images throughout the magazine supplied by the various companies, or publishers featured.

Please Note All information about products and services are supplied to us by the individual organizations, or agencies acting on their behalf. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that all information is accurate, it may be subject to change. Please check with individual organizations for the latest information about all events, products, or news items.

Inclusion in this magazine does not imply endorsement by Hot Brands Cool Places. Hot Brands Cool Places does not accept responsibility for the content of any external site.

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ELEGANT ADDRESS PROPERTY GROUP Introducing the Elegant Address Luxury Property Group - a Luxury Property Consultancy providing specialist knowledge, unrivalled British bespoke service and a vast portfolio of hand-picked luxury villas, five star hotels, chalets and apartments for rental and sale within some of the world’s most glamorous, exotic and characteristic locations. http://elegant-addresslpg.com/

ABERCROMBIE & KENT VILLAS Abercrombie & Kent Villas offer a wide range of luxury villas throughout Europe, from French chateaux to Tuscan farmhouses. As well as beautiful properties, we can also help organise the finer things that make your holiday complete with everything from private chefs to local hosts to help you make the most of your stay. www.abercrombiekent.co.uk

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NUMBER ONE DART MARINA Number One Dart Marina is an exquisite home in a breath-taking location by the River Dart in Dartmouth, Devon. A stunning combination of views, luxury and style, within a few steps of Dart Marina Hotel & Spa, see more at www.dartmarina.com/numberone

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THE PIER The Pier stands proudly overlooking the picturesque harbour and the confluence of the Stour and Orwell rivers. Long established in Harwich, the hotel boasts four stars with two rosettes for cooking. The Harbourside on the first floor of The Pier, is renowned for using locally caught seafood, much of which is landed in the harbour opposite. Head Chef, John Goff takes much of his influence from the sea so Harwich lobster and crab are nearly always on the menu served whichever way you’d like. Stay over and capture the ambience of this delightful old town, a night in The Mayflower suite, complete with telescope is a must! http://www.milsomhotels.com/thepier

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HARBOUR HOTELS Drenched in natural beauty, history and culture, the Harbour Hotels collection offers views and surrounding areas that can rival any Mediterranean destination. With hotels dotted along the south coast, the Harbour Hotels Collection boasts four incredible waterside havens, all with one thing in common simply breath-taking views – and a boutique Dorset seaside hideaway. www.harbourhotels.co.uk

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KESGRAVE HALL Step back, relax and indulge at milsoms Kesgrave Hall, a contemporary 4-star hotel with 23 fabulous bedrooms ranging from standard through to the ‘top grade’. Plenty of theatre can be found in the restaurant overlooked by the Engine Room, with head chef Stuart Oliver championing all that is great about Suffolk produce. www.kesgravehall.com

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MAISON TALBOOTH Step back, relax and indulge at Maison Talbooth. Twelve individual bedrooms, day spa, outdoor pool (heated to a sizzling 85Ëšall year), hot tub, pool house and tennis court. Guests dine at the award winning Le Talbooth restaurant beside the river Stour, just a minute away by courtesy car. www.milsomhotels.com/maison

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Hot Brands Cool Places spoke with Simon Meeke, Marketing Director, Powder Byrne for an exclusive interview

INTERVIEW 10

What have been the highlights for your business during 2014?

• We have successfully launched our bespoke ski programmes and exclusive services in the Swiss resort or Lenzerheide, increasing our offering during peak holiday season to 10 resorts. Lenzerheide in canton Graubunden, south-east Switzerlend, has already become an in-demand destination for our clients and we have seen strong interest from returning clients for the 2015 season.

• We unveiled our latest development in Flims, Casa Fortuna, consisting of 5 beautiful private apartments available for rental throughout the season and these have been very popular with our clients already.

• Summer 2014 saw an expansion of our active sports Academy programmes across our Mediterranean properties, and some phenomenal feedback from the teens who enjoyed surfing, sailing, tennis and SCUBA experiences.

• Launching exciting new destinations in our popular Air & Space adventure programme, enhancing our programmes in Peru and Costa Rica.

What do you see as the travel trends for 2015?

We are focusing on developing and enhancing the experience of clients travelling with Powder Byrne in 2015. Families are looking for more than just luxurious hotels, they want richer more experiential travel options.

Thanks to our dedicated in-resort teams, we are focusing on more and more ways we can add value for our clients in response to this trend.

We are seeing more multi-generational holidays as grandparents don’t want to miss out on all the fun.

What advice would you give to parents travelling with young children?

Try to find solutions which don’t require the kids or parents to make big compromises on their holiday experience. Independent travel with young children needs meticulous planning and will invariably require a lot of flexibility. Finding a specialist operator who has the experience and solutions to meet the needs of young children is the best way to ensure everyone in the family gets the holiday they need. Make sure any people involved in the care of your children whilst on holiday are properly qualified and experienced and have the right attitude to ensure the little ones don’t feel left out.

What is your most memorable travel experience as a child?

My most memorable family holidays from childhood involve travelling in a confusion of cousins, grandparents, aunts and uncles and everyone mucking in and enjoying themselves. Always chaotic but always full of laughter and high spirits!

What is your favourite destination now and why?

Never an easy question to answer as different places appeal for different reasons, depending on who I’m travelling with and what I’m travelling for. I’m smitten with the Italian Dolomites right now, and having spent the opening of the season in Alta Badia in December for the launch of their delicious gourmet skiing programme I’ll be heading back there at the first opportunity. We’re launching a summer Dolomites adventure programme which I’m particularly excited about.

What do you always pack in your suitcase?

A good book (old fashioned paper version) typically a travel tale to get lost in. http://www.powderbyrne.com/ 11

HINTLESHAM HALL Beautiful grounds, surrounding a graceful 16th Century Grade 1 listed Country House Hotel.

A warm welcome from friendly efficient staff, showing you through to a sumptuous lounge with a roaring log fires during the winter months, papers to read while you relax on deep sofas with a Traditional Afternoon Tea awaiting you after a stroll in the grounds. www.hintleshamhall.com

BOVEY CASTLE Bovey Castle is a five-star hotel set within a 275-acre private estate with its own championship golf course, offering guests the unpretentious grandeur and sumptuous dĂŠcor of true English luxury on Dartmoor National Park www.boveycastle.com

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BAILEY ROBINSON Bailey Robinson are a British based luxury travel company providing tailor made holidays across hand-picked global locations. Our experts will create a holiday to match your requirements and help you choose the best location for your honeymoon. www.baileyrobinson.com

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NEW ZEALAND IN DEPTH Founded by Paul Carberry in 2003, New Zealand in Depth specialise in creating tailormade holidays to New Zealand. Paul has spent more than a year of his life on the ground in New Zealand and offers a genuine personal service, taking the time to understand his clients, their interests and their needs. This is the only way to create a truly bespoke honeymoon experience. http://www.newzealandindepth.com/

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CARRIER LAUNCHES TRAVEL: THE LUXE LIFE

FEATURE Lifestyle preferences, not just destinations, are inspiring holiday choices in 2015 Luxury tailor-made tour operator, Carrier, earlier this year launched Travel: The Luxe Life 2015. The new concept collection was inspired by demand from Carrier’s clients for curated experiences that suited their specific interests and lifestyle preferences. Exceptional locations, intuitive service, stylish interiors and peaceful spas are a given for today’s luxury traveller, and so a sense of escapism is increasingly to be found by indulging one’s passions.

Maxine Roberts, Head of Marketing at Carrier commented, “Over 25% of our enquirers last year had very firm travel dates in mind, with a general desire to ‘get some sun’, but their only other holiday criteria was to suit their lifestyle. For example, a professional photographer not only wanted to capture beautiful landscapes, but also to explore on foot or by bike, go white-water rafting and relax in a great spa. Another client wanted shared activities to suit a family party: tennis, diving and powerboats. Another was seeking a healthy, Zen holiday, with yoga, healthy food and culture. The destination, in these instances was irrelevant.”

In response to these challenges, Carrier has designed an ultimate guide to provide ideas of the type of experiences it could be arranging, alongside specially negotiated offers and exclusive savings for travel in 2015.

The intelligently thought-out programme disrupts the norm of grouping holidays by destination, and instead categorises them by lifestyle theme: Health & Wellness, Action Packed, The Great Outdoors, Grand Designs, Foodie Escapes, Local Spirit, Learn from the experts and Culture Vultures. Travel: The Luxe Life demonstrates Carrier’s skill and expertise in curating transformative, bespoke travel experiences from the ground up, and formalises a service it has offered for some time under the ‘Challenge us’ section of its website.

Here are the key themes: Action Packed Relaxation is redefined as the quality of recreational experiences offered at many luxury resorts now rivals the opulence of their furnishings. From teeing off on championship greens in Andalucía to enjoying bespoke scuba diving excursions together with resident marine biologists in the Maldives, physical rejuvenation is now as actively sought as restful indulgence.

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Travellers can opt to be tested to their physical limits with exhilarating guided ski sessions down Alpine couloirs or challenging bike rides under the tutelage of former champions. Seek to combine natural discoveries with physical exercise on guided hikes to remote turtle reserves in Cyprus and snorkelling excursions.

Health and Wellness Luxury spa breaks have evolved into holistic, healing journeys as leading resorts seek to inspire discerning travellers looking to nourish body and soul in equal measure. Some focus on total relaxation. In Barbados, guests unwind in open-sided treatment rooms infused with lemongrass. Colonnaded spa pavilions are enhanced with a cutting-edge hydrotherapy pool in Greece. For others, the natural landscape becomes the ultimate fitness centre. Jungle gorge mountain bike rides and paddy field treks replace aerobics in Bali. In St Lucia spinning classes take place in a treetop studio suspended 25 feet off the forest floor, and guests are put through their paces on quadrathlons through some inimitable Caribbean landscapes. to discover parrot fish and giant clams in the Whitsundays.

The Great Outdoors Whether it’s paddling in a Polynesian canoe in Hawaii or hiking to hilltop monasteries in the Himalayas, worldclass resorts are exploding the myth that luxury travel comes at the expense of natural discoveries. Would-be pioneers can encounter fish eagles and macaques on jungle trails in Langkawi’s UNESCO Geopark or saddle up to go in search of mountain lions and black bear under the ‘big skies’ of Montana. Outdoor adventure and cultural explorations can be combined in Morocco where discoveries include both the rose-red city of Marrakech and the Berber villages of the Atlas Mountains. Or South Africa, whose famous Winelands offer up vineyard and orchard trails along with the glittering city of Cape Town.

Grand Designs Whether they seek to fuse seamlessly with it or provide a stark contrast to it, more architects than ever before are looking to celebrate the natural environment in their design. Guests can wake up in the ultimate room with a view where walls collapse to offer dizzying, red-rock canyon vistas in Arizona; whilst jaw-dropping infinity pools in St Lucia become a natural window over the island’s trademark Pitons. Exciting cultural design fusions provide even more visual stimulation – French chic meets Cape Dutch charm in South Africa, New York minimalism is juxtaposed by Singaporean modernism in Abu Dhabi. Other hotels redefine ‘travelling in style’ to become living art galleries – with video walls and unique exhibition spaces.

Foodie Escapes Rather than merely celebrating regional cuisine, a growing number of luxury hotels are elevating rustic recipes into an epicurean experience worthy of their surroundings. Chinese grandmother’s dishes are infused with caviar, Maldivian wahoo is transformed into sashimi; tortellini are stuffed with blue crab. But the foodie journey does not end there. Diners can be seated underwater in a natural aquarium in the Maldives, watch their chef line-fish Mahi Mahi in Antigua or sample over 500 different whiskies at one of Cape Town’s premier addresses.

From international festivals that play host to Michelin- starred chefs to specialist wine tastings and gourmet safaris, luxury hotels now lead the way in gastronomic tourism.

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Local spirit Often considered natural opposites, world-class luxury and regional authenticity form a winning collaboration within this growing trend that encourages guests to step out of their hotel and learn more about the people that support it; from meeting local farmers in Crete to touring fish markets and fruit plantations in the Maldives.

Guests can even make their own social contribution participating in tree-planting or coral reef rejuvenation projects or even helping build a new school. For cultural immersion of a different kind, travellers can see a foreign city from a new perspective by renting a luxury home far from the tourist trail, benefitting from the local knowledge provided by the owner themselves.

Learn from the Experts Cultural enrichment is fast replacing material indulgence amongst the luxe-travel cognoscenti, as more opt for learning experiences over lavish pampering. Inspired by their regional heritage, luxury retreats connect their guests with local experts to create unique cultural encounters; from harvesting rice and driving elephants with local mahouts in Thailand to uncovering centuries-old bushmen secrets in Botswana or capturing the coral houses and spice bazaars of Zanzibar with a professional photography lesson. Others forge winning celebrity partnerships to elevate their resorts to centres of excellence – the excitement of Wimbledon is recreated in Antigua as Annabel Croft leads a tennis camp whilst aspiring golfers pick up tips from PGA pros on a Jack Nicklaus course in Mexico.

Culture Vultures Whether they seek to showcase local talent or have acted as a muse to inspire global works of art and literature, these singular resorts are imbued with creative flair and artistic energy. Set-jetters can check in at James Bond’s beach villa immortalised in ‘Casino Royale’ in the Bahamas, or discover the Venetian fortress that was the setting for Victoria Hislop’s ‘The Island’ in Crete. Fiction also meets reality in Beverly Hills where guests can wake up in the Eagles iconic Hotel California. Or travellers seeking to develop their own creative talents can learn Arabic calligraphy in Morocco, get lost in a book in their own three-storey library tower room in Turkey or learn the ancient art of mosaic in Greece.

Voted ‘Favourite Tour Operator’ at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Travel Awards 2014. Carrier specialises in luxury tailor-made holidays worldwide. Service is personal, flexible and haute couture.

To find out more visit http://www.carrier.co.uk/ images courtesy of Carrier

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INNTRAVEL Inntravel specialise in Slow holidays, which reveal the lesser-taken path and offer a truly individual holiday experience. From carefully crafted self-guided walking and cycling holidays, to inspiring winter snow holidays, uncover hidden corners and authentic local experiences along the way. www.inntravel.co.uk

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FOOTPATH HOLIDAYS Personally owned and run by Ian and Suzanne Newman, Footpath Holidays has been providing high quality walking holidays in Britain since 1983. Holiday options include guided walking as part of a group, self-guided holidays based in a single centre and selfguided holidays moving on each day and having your luggage transported. Every year Footpath Holidays organises a number of ‘tailor-made’ itineraries e.g. walks associated with pilgrimage routes, James Herriot’s Yorkshire, Daphne Du Maurier’s Cornwall, or the Arthurian Legends. http://www.footpath-holidays.com/

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ST BRIDES BAY COTTAGES St Brides Bay Cottages offers delightful cottages in superb locations around the North Pembrokeshire Coast. “Welcome� might be a small word, but here it has a very big meaning. The scenery is spectacular, the air is crystal fresh and the villages are full of character. The rugged beauty offers the perfect backdrop for a real get-away-from-it-all holiday. www.stbridesbaycottages.com

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AMBERLEY HOUSE COTTAGES In Sussex, Kent or East Hampshire you soon realise nothing is far away whether you want to enjoy the local lanes and villages of the Sussex High Weald and Kent’s Garden of England, the sheer variety of our coastline from Whitstable to Chichester Harbour, or the splendour of the South Downs, you will find it all within easy reach and very accessible. We offer you over 170 hand selected properties to choose from. These range from modern apartments in Chichester to wonderful Victorian apartment conversions in Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate. www.amberleyhousecottages.co.uk

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SUFFOLK COTTAGE HOLIDAYS Whether you are looking for contemporary chic or classic comfort, Suffolk Cottage Holidays’ stylish, luxury cottages are the very best in Suffolk. In the heart of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, our coastal and countryside cottages are set in some of East Anglia’s finest locations. www.suffolkcottageholidays.com/

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HIDEAWAYS Hideaways cottages provide the perfect escape from busy and stressful lifestyles.

Located across the south of England from Cornwall to Kent and up to the Cotswolds and Welsh borders, Hideaways specialises in high quality properties – from idyllic, romantic retreats just for 2 to large barn conversions sleeping up to 22. www.hideaways.co.uk

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EXPERIENCE TRAVEL GROUP Enriching the lives of the world’s most passionate travellers. Bespoke, luxury experienced based holidays in Asia. Experience is everything! www.experiencetravelgroup.com

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Hot Brands Cool Places spoke with Loic Robertson, Director of Digital and Marketing, Audley Travel for an exclusive interview

INTERVIEW 26

What have been the highlights for your business during 2014?

We launched new offices in Boston (USA) and London which was really exciting. It’s a reflection of how demand for the personalised travel service that Audley offers is growing.

My ongoing challenge is providing plenty of inspiration through our website, and also demonstrating that whatever we show can be personalised for the traveler.

What do you see as the travel trends for 2015?

Destination wise both Latin America and North America are particularly popular at the moment. It’s a combination of two things: people have been inspired by coverage in the media, and the pound is strong against the dollar at the moment, which makes all the Americas relatively good value.

Cuba also needs singling out, with the news of a warming in relations with the USA, lots of people want to go and see it before it changes.

What are today’s travellers looking for when they book a special holiday overseas?

Discerning travellers are looking for that different experience, ideally away from the crowds. So it may be a more characterful and smaller boutique hotel, a guided tour or hands on experience that gets under the skin of a destination, or stepping well off the beaten track, at least for part of a trip. In Vietnam, for example, you can spend a day with farming family and help them plant or harvest rice and prepare meals. One of the key aspects I think is in the quality of the guides, these are the people that can really bring a destination alive, and we’re very choosy about the quality of our guides.

What do you enjoy most about working in the travel industry?

I’m based in the UK for much of the year, so when I’m not travelling, seeing amazing photographs of destinations is really inspirational, particularly on a grey day! Although you could say it’s a bit hackneyed, I also think that we fulfil a lot of people’s dreams, and I find it particularly rewarding when a client returns and writes raving about the wonderful experiences on their trip.

What is your favourite destination and why?

The classic question and so difficult to answer. I had a really memorable trip to California quite a few years ago, that will take some beating. California does seem to have a bit of everything, and seeing Yosemite in the media recently reminded me what a special place that national park is. I’ve not been to Namibia yet and that’s high on my wish list.

What do you always pack in your suitcase?

Some readers may find this a bit sad, but I can’t travel without my iPad. It’s all about the wonderful information that’s at your fingertips – particularly maps which I love. Watch this space for some new developments for iPads from Audley. http://www.audleytravel.com/

EXCLUSIVE ESCAPES Exclusive Escapes provide you with wonderful villas and boutique hotels all exclusive to them. All their villas offer a ‘hotel-service’ with welcome hamper, daily maid cleaning and car hire. Its coastal programme includes top-of-the-range seafront townhouses and a host of brand new opportunities to explore south west Turkey including the introduction of a new region and the launch of a brand new hotel Alavya, and four brand new super chic coastal villas, and guided trekking on a new long-distance path-the Carian Trail. www.exclusiveescapes.co.uk/

QUALITY COTTAGES The tight knit family business based in North Pembrokeshire represents over 300 fabulous holiday properties throughout the most stunning coastal, countryside and mountainous regions of Wales. Quality Cottages was the first company to be awarded a gold medal for services to self catering holidays in Wales. http://www.qualitycottages.co.uk

QUALITY UNEARTHED Something a little different... unusual holiday accommodations such as Treehouses, gypsy wagons, off-grid places, or cool glamping abodes are our passion. And these alternative, ecologically sensitive holidays are something more of us are seeking out. Increasingly we want things in life that are authentic and unique and our choice of holiday accommodation is reflected in this. www.qualityunearthed.co.uk

QUALITY VILLAS Quality Villas was established back in 1986 by Margaret Rees, the current owner, with a handful of villa properties. Today, with the same attention to detail and regard for only offering the best and most sumptuous properties, all enjoying a ‘wow’ factor of some sort, there are close to 500 villas in the portfolio. www.qualityvillas.com

BEACON PARK BOATS Beacon Park Boats is a family-run business offering luxury narrowboat holidays on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal in the Brecon Beacons National Park, South Wales.

Alasdair and Sarah Kirkpatrick combine their love of design, craftsmanship, boating, engineering and hospitality to give you the very best in canal boat holiday experiences. https://beaconparkboats.com/

WILDERNESS COTTAGES Wilderness Cottages offer a variety of self catering holiday properties throughout Scotland. These range in size from small cosy cottages, ideal for honeymoon couples and romantic holidays, or larger holiday cottages to sleep from six to twelve. From remote crofts to stays in luxury apartments we have properties to suit all tastes. Many cottages are open all year, have log fires and make pets welcome. http://www.wildernesscottages.co.uk/

SYKES COTTAGES Give yourself something to look forward to with a holiday from Sykes Cottages. With over 4,000 self-catering holiday cottages throughout the UK and Ireland, you’ll be spoilt for choice when planning your 2015 getaway. To find out more, visit our website or give us a call. www.sykescottages.co.uk

RIVERSIDE LIFESTYLE Riverside Lifestyle is one hot brand cool place - it empowers you in spirit and mind – take a visit to the gorgeous self catering cottage in Hampshire positioned in 7 acres of blissful countryside and next to the River Dever (but never too far away from a pub or some retail / cultural therapy!). Smell, taste and enjoy Riverside’s lavender and olive oil scented luxury bath accessories or their award winning artisan foods including the scrumptious jams, marmalades and chutneys and mega trendy bucket of natural olive oil crisps. (the perfect gift btw!)

Riverside Lifestyle offers something for everyone - it gives you something creative, original and indulgent every time. Visit www.riversidelifestyle.co.uk

Hot Brands Cool Places spoke with Debbie Allen, Founder of Red Hen for an exclusive interview What was the inspiration behind Red Hen? I’ve always loved homes and interiors and enjoyed finding new and unusual home accessories so it seemed a perfect area to start a business.

How does your previous experience help in running your business?

My previous experience has been in running a fashion business. There are lots of parallels between the two, from the general day to day running of the business, talking to customers, and finding suppliers to being aware of up and coming trends and styles.

How do you find time to balance all your interests?

This is something I am not good at! I would love to have time to paint and draw more, although its not easy along side running the business.

I do love walking and we are very lucky to be in beautiful countryside, so walking the dog is a good time for planning the day. It is an excellent way to prepare for the day.

How do you know if a product is right for you?

I look for a combination of the quirky and practical as well as paying attention to good value and style. Really, if I love it, I know my customers will too.

What are your hopes for the future of your company?

To introduce more of our own designs and continue to develop our own style and product range.

What makes a perfect weekend for you?

I love a very traditional Sunday lunch with all the family. Followed by a walk and a roaring fire in winter it’s hard to beat. http://www.redhentrading.co.uk/

INTERVIEW

cover image courtesy of Ella James

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

Welcome to our lovely Valentine’s Gift Guide 2015, perhaps you are looking for that perfect way to say ‘I love you’, or to surprise someone special with an unexpected gift. It’s all here!

LINLEY Looking for that extra special gift? British design company LINLEY have a beautiful collection of stunning gifts including the Limited Edition Diamond Jewellery Box. LINLEY enjoys prominence as both a retail and bespoke business specializing in the design and production of furniture, upholstery, interiors and home accessories of a superlative quality. Most LINLEY products have plaques which can be engraved and this makes a really lovely touch. www.davidlinley.com Belle and Boo Imagine, immerse & indulge yourself in the wondrous products from Belle & Boo, enchanting art prints, beautiful dresses & pretty little play things. All original gifts for children & babies to richly stir the imagination & transform a simple playroom or nursery into a childhood wonderland. www.belleandboo.com Dangly Hearts Beautiful handmade textile gifts made with love that are simply perfect for your valentine! Take a look at our rabbit & moon cushion; appliqued bunnies with button tails, ‘I love you to the moon and back’ stitched in free machine embroidery on a beautiful cotton with a plump feather pad to finish. www.danglyhearts.co.uk Red Lilly Online independent interiors store for unusual and heart warming Valentines gifts and decorations for a cosy February night together. www.redlilly.co.uk Ancienne Ambiance Treat yourself, or someone else, this Valentine’s Day to exquisitely fragranced luxuries inspired by the roses of ancient times at Ancienne Ambiance.

NB. Free Worldwide Delivery + Free Gift Wrap offered year-round. http://www.ancienneambiance.com eatsleepdoodle Are you a big old romantic, or are you more Bah Lovebug? Well if you do want to make a winning romantic gesture but without the fluffy bunnies, why not bag yourself a doodle pillowcase and personalise it in your own inimitable way? Whether you doodle a picture, a quotation or an alternative Valentine’s mixtape playlist, it will say exactly what YOU want to say. (And it says heaps about you too.) There’s even a secret panel inside for those messages which are très intime et romantique. And for fickle romantics – remember, it all washes out… now that’s what we call baaad romance. http://www.eatsleepdoodle.com/

The Gift Atelier The Gift Atelier is the online destination for gifts more than ordinary. It offers a collection of gifts for ladies, gents and home from British brands including Bamford, Hackett of London, Johnston’s of Elgin, Linley and Vivienne Westwood. www.giftatelier.com / Tel. 0208 699 4100

By Elise If you think seriously about jewellery (and who doesn’t?) then you will be delighted to visit Elise’s website www.byelise.com . This highly-regarded and well-established label specializes in vermeil and gemstones, baroque pearls and a stylish collection of cubic zirconia. www.byelise.com Red Hen At Red Hen we stock stylish gifts and home accessories and that includes some lovely ideas for Valentines day.

Amongst our gift ideas you will find vintage heart tins, pretty hanging hearts, ceramic love tokens and quirky mugs with romantic messages all perfect for Valentines day. www.redhentrading.co.uk Ella James Shop at http://www.ellajames.co.uk/ for pretty gifts and inspiration - a gorgeous selection of delightful gifts for Valentine’s day. (See cover image) www.ellajames.co.uk Arts and Craft Living What could be a more romantic gift for the home than a vase named after the shape of the lips in a kiss? The “Kiss” vase, from Arts & Crafts Living, is inspired by a range of art pottery produced at the turn of the 19th century. http://www.artsandcraftsliving.co.uk/pottery/ CocoonU CocoonU luxury collections embrace timeless style, lasting quality and minimalist beauty. We specialise in perfect gifts for the individual, home and travel. Our soft, finely handcrafted Italian leather bags make a special and luxurious Valentine gift. cocoonu.com Sass & Belle Show the special person in your life how much they mean to you with something from the adorable Sass & Belle Valentine’s collection. From small tokens declaring your love, pretty romantic cushions, thoughtful photo frames to their charmingly useful vintage styles tins, there really is something for all tastes at Sass & Belle. Discover the adorable range on www.sassandbelle.co.uk

Valentine’s Day Beauty Round-up Kiss it Better – for children with cancer Clinique is delighted to partner for the eighth year running with Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity for the KISS IT BETTER appeal raising money to fund research into the causes and treatment of childhood cancer. This year £2 from every lip product sold throughout the month of February will be donated to the Kiss It Better appeal, £1 from Clinique and £1 from House of Fraser.

NEW Long Last Glosswear Shade Extensions consists of 18 new glistening shades from sheer to full intensity. The colours are fun, flirty and shiny complimented by serious moisturisation. Thanks to powerful film-formers that create a “seal” holding the gloss to your lips throughout the day, Long Last Glosswear stays put for up to 8 hours!

For further information on the KISS IT BETTER appeal and ways to donate, visit www.gosh.org/kissitbetter For stockist details, telephone 0870 034 2566 or visit www.clinique.co.uk Pure Color Envy PURE COLOR ENVY SCULPTING EYESHADOW 5-COLOR PALETTE Five superluxe shadows in a powder so plush, it feels creamy.

Each sophisticated shade palette is anchored in neutrality. Nuances of tone and texture add elements of the unexpected.

Go natural, intensified or dramatic with ease - create multiple eye looks with one palette.

Brighten, sculpt and define your eyes: Lighter shades lift and illuminate. Midtones shape and contour. Deep tones define with a smoky allure.

Weightless formula with intense colour release. Glides on silky, blends effortlessly. Ultra-fine powder makes building colour and layering shades easy. In a range of distinctive finishes. http://www.esteelauder.co.uk/

BLACK ABSINTHE AND PARISIAN MILLEFLEURS Introducing Black Absinthe Eau de Cologne and Parisian Millefleurs Flower Water, the latest sensual fragrances to join Crabtree & Evelyn’s acclaimed Heritage Collection.

Taking inspiration from the romantic city of Paris, these seductive scents combine traditional botanicals with a contemporary twist, featuring notes of absinthe, rose, narcissus, lavender and cypress.

Classic with a sensual edge, these are the perfect fragrances for Valentine’s Day. Evoking classic aromas of the Mediterranean coastline and Europe’s ancient cities, the Heritage Collection is the fruit of Crabtree & Evelyn’s 40 years of experience in fragrance creation.

Precious, vintage ingredients with a timeless beauty are given the modern Crabtree & Evelyn English touch. Each Heritage Collection fragrance is presented in a charming glass bottle inside a luxurious box beautifully decorated with archive illustrations; a fitting tribute to the history behind their creation.

Stockist information: www.crabtree-evelyn.co.uk | 0800 111 4406 SAY IT WITH HEARTS NOT FLOWERS - SWEET HEART GIFT BOX There’s no better way to celebrate your affection than by giving your heart away.

This beautiful keepsake tin is filled with luscious, strawberry mini bath and body treats.

Don’t have a Valentine’s in mind? No problem. Treat yourself! http://www.thebodyshop.com/

REVIEWS Here is a round up of some of our favourite books recently published London Style Guide- Saska Graville Synopsis: Saska Graville’s London Style Guide- now fully revised and updated with the latest up-to-the-minute venues- will get you under the skin of our intoxicating capital city, introducing you to the lesser known addresses- the small, off-the-radar places, the one-off shops, street markets, corner pubs and local restaurants- and some of the people behind them.

Since the first edition of London Style Guide three years ago, a slew of independent bars and restaurants has transformed how Londoners eat and drink. From the award-winning pizzeria in a Scout Hut, to the restored and revived Victorian heritage-listed eating house, Saska reveals the places that make the city’s food scene unique. Not just eating, but sleeping and shopping too, London Style Guide features more than 160 hand-picked venues highlighting the most interesting and happening areas throughout London, and 18 up close and personal interviews with London business owners, such as Russell Norman of Polpo, who’ve been persuaded to share their favourite haunts.

Even many Londoners can be pretty clueless about where to go when you transplant them out of their comfort zones, and most visitors still stick to the ‘trophy’ sites they’ll find in an average guide book. Dividing the city into the ‘villages’ that create London’s personality, London Style Guide will encourage you to break out of a bubble, explore new areas and discover London’s secrets and surprises.

Saska Graville is the Deputy Editor at Red magazine. A Londoner born and bred, she has worked as a writer and editor in women’s magazines and newspapers for 20 years. http://www.amazon.co.uk/London-Style-Guide-revised-Publisher/dp/ B00SLRX9SY/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1423480481&sr=1-3&keyw ords=LOndon+Style+Guide+2015 Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict We loved this book when it was first published, and this latest fully revised and updated version is even better! It is a wonderful behind the scenes, intimate guide to London. Like the title, the book is very stylish, with delightful photography and illustrations, making it feel a very personal guidebook. We loved the way the book is divided into villages‚ making each area very accessible, as well as the fascinating, ‘Meet the Londoner’ interviews. One of our favourite guides to London!

Highly Recommended!

The Little Book of Love- Tiddy Rowan “Love,” as Tiddy Rowan points out in her new book, “is a phenomenon of life.” Why we feel it, when we feel it and for whom we feel it remains a mystery. Yet it is perhaps the most enduring and universal part of the human condition. No other subject has inspired so much and so many, be it in music, art, or literature; love is, and always will be, a cause for thought and contemplation – but most of all celebration.

The Little Book of Love is the perfect thing to remind us that love is not only out there, but all around. Inspiring quotes from some of history’s greatest lovers and thinkers offer timeless advice and food-for-thought that is bound to ignite romance in sceptics and lovebirds alike. Coupled with Tiddy’s own invaluable ideas, as well as exercises to help you contemplate love, this book will inspire us to nurture our relationships (or begin new ones) with care, thought and passion. http://www.amazon.co.uk/Little-Book-Love-Books/dp/1849495610/ref=sr_ 1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1423242401&sr=8-5&keywords=Little+book+of+love Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict If you are looking for inspiration this Valentine’s Day, look no further than this beautiful little book, A perfect gift, or a source of quotes, this little book is an absolute delight. From Plato to Proust via Shakespeare and Rumi, The Little Book of Love guides us through the many forms that love takes in our lives and the ways in which we can develop both heart and soul. Highly Recommended!

Balderdash & Piffle: One Sandwich Short of a Dog’s DinnerAlex Games Synopsis: Balderdash & Piffle: One Sandwich Short of a Dog’s Dinner is a thrilling ride through the provocative, bewildering and often downright bizarre world of language and etymology. From the brash jargon of celebrity magazines to the delicacies and feints of the euphemism, author and word-sleuth Alex Games has uncovered the remarkable stories that lie behind some of our best-loved words and expressions. By grouping words into distinct themes - such as put downs and insults, the vocab of fashionistas and the lingo of dodgy dealings - Balderdash & Piffle looks at the English language in a fresh and revealing light.

Alex Games recalls the trends, innovations and scandals that have produced some of our most familiar but least explored words and phrases. Accompanying a brand new series of the hit BBC television programme Balderdash & Piffle - and containing all the results of the ‘Wordhunt’ from the first series -this entertaining book is a treasure trove for English-language lovers everywhere. http://w w w.randomhouse.co.uk/editions/balderdash-piffle-onesandwich-short-of-a-dogs-dinner/9781849909747 Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict This is a delightful little book full of interesting information about some of our best known words and phrases, well researched, it is an entertaining and fascinating read. Highly Recommended!

Visualization for Weight Loss, Jon Gabriel Synopsis: In Visualization for Weight Loss, Jon Gabriel expands on the most talked about tool in his bestselling book, The Gabriel Method: visualization.

This powerful technique helped Jon drop 220 pounds without dieting or deprivation because it didn’t depend on calorie counting or extreme exercise - rather it changed his biochemistry and neural pathways. In turn, this helped lower stress and its associated inflammatory chemicals in his body, allowing him to lose weight easily and naturally.

Examining the importance of visualizing for weight loss, Jon takes readers through the latest research on the power of the mind in order to show why this technique works. And then he lays out concrete, unintimidating advice about how to implement visualization into their lives. In addition to teaching readers how to move into the most powerful brain state for enacting change, Jon includes visualizations to help readers: · Overcome disempowering beliefs surrounding food and weight loss · Melt away stress · Conquer fears of losing weight · Rediscover the joy of movement · Create healthy new habits · Kill food cravings and addictions · Achieve better sleep http://www.hayhouse.co.uk/visualization-for-weight-loss-1 Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict This is a really inspiring and helpful book, not just about weight loss, but about using visualization in your life generally.

Jon teaches readers how to create their own personalized visualizations that can be even more powerful. He then presents a four-month visualization strategy that can be easily included in anyone’s life - no matter what time constraints they face. Highly Recommended!

Love, Tanya - Tanya Burr

Synopsis: Hi everyone and welcome to Love, Tanya! This book is really close to my heart, because it’s inspired by my journey to becoming confident and feeling happy about who I am. I wanted to write a book to share the things I’ve learnt with you - to reveal my top tips on fashion, beauty, love, friendship, YouTube... and loads more! Plus, there is room for you to list your own hopes and dreams alongside mine - so get creative and get involved!

I’d love it if this book became a keepsake you can turn to whenever you need some guidance or a little pick me up. I hope you enjoy it! http://www.penguin.co.uk/books/love-tanya/9781405921404/ Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict Primarily aimed at a teen and young women audience, this book is a full-colour lifestyle guide, sharing tips and hints.

There are personal chapters such as Growing Up and Life as well as more practical chapters on subjects such as beauty, fashion and baking.

Rachel Khoo’s Kitchen Notebook.-Rachel Khoo Synopsis: Bestselling author Rachel Khoo is on the go once again with her latest cookbook, Rachel Khoo’s Kitchen Notebook.

Her latest cookbook is packed to the brim with 100 standout recipes, full-colour photography and Rachel’s very own sketches of the food and places she encounters.

Out and about, she finds the most delicious fare, recording it all in her kitchen notebook. From a Ham Hock Tiffin Box to Slow Roasted Pork Belly with Sloe Gin, and Rhubarb and Custard Millefeuille, Rachel Khoo’s Kitchen Notebook will inspire even the most jaded cook to try something new. http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rachel-Khoos-Kitchen-Notebook-Khoo/ dp/0718179463 Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict We loved The Little Paris Kitchen and this book is equally delicious, full of her inventive mouth-watering recipes, beautifully illustrated, we follow Rachel on her culinary adventures. There is something for everyone in this wonderful book! Highly Recommended!

Five: 150 effortless ways to eat 5+ fruit and veg a day Rachel de Thample Synopsis: We all want tasty food that’s good for us. Key to that is ensuring we eat our daily intake of fruit and vegetables. Most of us aren’t even getting half the fruit and veg we need in a day. In Five Rachel de Thample makes delicious food effortless, offering over 150 easy, flavoursome recipes that will boost your daily intake.

Rachel’s inspirational treasure trove includes such dishes as Fig, Almond and Orange Blossom Water Muffins, Moroccan Beetroot Soup, Wild Spring Spaghetti and Carrot Cake Scones, as well as themed and seasonal menu suggestions. Whatever you choose to eat, each dish is clearly flagged with the number of portions of fruit and veg each serving contains – some even offer a full 5 portions.

So you always know you’re eating both well and happily. ht tp://w w w.ebu r ypub l i sh i ng.co.uk /ed itions/u lti mate - 5 - a - daycookbook/9780091959661 Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict If you struggle to find creative ways of eating more fruit and vegetables there are over 150 easy, flavoursome recipes in this delightful book.

With beautiful photography, menu suggestions and clear guidance on the number of portions in each dish, this is a great way to start the year healthily. Highly Recommended!

My Darling Lemon Thyme - Emma Galloway Synopsis: Enjoy wholesome, nourishing food without skimping on taste!

Emma Galloway learned to love fresh, healthy food growing up in a family of creative cooks. She has carried that love over into her roles as a chef, mother and highly successful food writer. These recipes reflect Emma’s philosophy that natural, whole food should also be flavoursome, fun and easy to prepare.

This is food as it’s supposed to be eaten - fresh from the earth to the kitchen, seasonal, nourishing and delicious. Perfect for anyone with food intolerances, My Darling Lemon Thyme is also sure to please everyone who loves great food that is also great for you. http://www.amazon.co.uk/Darling-Lemon-Thyme-Emma-Galloway/ dp/1775540219/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1423248500&sr=8-1&keywords=m y+darling+lemon+thyme Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict This is a refreshingly different collection of recipes reflecting Emma Galloway’s philosophy of creating wholesome nourishing food without compromising on taste.

Divided into Rise + Shine, Small Plates, Sweet Tooth, Big Plates, Drinks + Frozen Goodness, Sweetness, Etc. there is a delicious collection of very healthy options and comfort food as well. Highly Recommended!

Pom Pom Gets the Grumps Sophy Henn Synopsis: A delightful and hilarious new character from exciting new author and illustrator talent, Sophy Henn, creator of the highly acclaimed picture book, Where Bear?. When Pom Pom Panda wakes up in a BAD mood one morning, nothing is right.

And then things go from bad to worse. A fresh and funny new take on toddler tantrums, that will strike a chord with parents and young children alike. h t t p : // w w w. p u f f i n . c o . u k / b o o k s / p o m - p o m - g e t s - t h e grumps/9780723294764/ Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict All round the office there were knowing nods when reading this delightful book, all parents and children will recognise and smile with recognition at this adorable little story.

Our junior reviewers loved it, we loved it, another fabulous success for the very talented Sophy Henn! Highly Recommended!

HOT BRANDS COOL PLACES www.hotbrandscoolplaces.com