Vol 20 The Perspectives Issue by House of Coco

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+ AUSTRIA + I TA LY + JA PA N + SCOTLAND + WA L ES

£5.95

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The Highlands

HEADSPACE. RARELY FOUND INDOORS. GO FIND YOUR #OUTSPIRATION

Todd Crag, Ambleside, UK

REWILDING THE HIGHLANDS Words & Images: LAUREL WALDRON

THE PERSPECTIVES ISSUE

Ed!or's Le"er

elcome to Vol 20, The Perspectives Issue. The volume that felt like it was never going to make it into the world due to the unexpected loss of my father around the original release date, my inability to come to terms with the new hole in my heart and my much-needed down time from the magazine to focus on healing. But, as they say, good things come to those who wait. My dad was always my number one fan and biggest supporter of House of Coco magazine. I was recently in his garage and stumbled across his stash of every single issue we have ever released over the course of the last seven years. To say my dad was proud of me and this magazine would be an understatement. When I shot the cover for this issue earlier this year, I had just made a life changing decision to give up my home, sell all my furniture and I had booked a

one-way ticket to LA. I was all set to start a new adventure over in the States and create my own American dream and it was just five short weeks from making that decision until the time I would be drinking matcha latte’s from Erewhon in Beverly Hills. But life happened in those short weeks, Dad was taken from me and my whole perspective on life changed. It’s still early days and the grief can be crippling at times but one thing I know for sure is that life ends but love doesn’t, and love is what I have aplenty thanks to my dad. I have poured all my love into this issue, as have the rest of #TeamCoco, and I hope you enjoy delving into each and every story and maybe one of them will give you a whole new perspective too. I dedicate Vol 20 to Keith Bartlett, the best dad to walk this earth. My hero from the day I was born until the day that he died and beyond. Dad, there won’t be a day that goes by that you aren’t on my

mind, and I promise to continue to make you proud until my last breath. Please, look over me, guide me and protect me just like you did when you were here and know that no matter what the weather, you will always be my sunshine. Love you forever, your Lollipop.n

n @laurabartlett0

n www.houseofcoco.net 4

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Laura

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF n @laura@houseofcoco.net

n @house_of_coco

n #TeamCoco

CONTENTS COCO ICON: INSPIRING AND GALVANISING - MADRID NO FRILLS

Team Coco 6

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Laura Bartlett

PRODUCTION EDITOR Anna Willatt

LECH: A DESTINATION FOR ALL SEASONS

BEAUTY

Rachel McAlley Vanessa Gainford

CARIBBEAN REPORTER Kered Clement

SLOW TRAVEL IN ITALY

FASHION

Hannah Tan-Gillies Taheed Khan

FOOD

Debby Donnelly-Addison Amira Arasteh

HOW I FELL BACK IN LOVE WITH LIVING

LITERATURE Beth Ryder

LONDON REPORTER Lydia Matthews

BED, BATH AND BEYOND

MUSIC

Emma Harrison

SUSTAINABLE LIVING Tilly-Jayne Kidman Rachael Lindsay

WILD, WEST, WALES: WILDLIFE ADVENTURES ON SKOMER ISLAND

REWILDING THE HIGHLANDS

WHY WE NEED TO KEEP TALKING ABOUT WOMEN'S SAFETY

TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE

Aisha Bennett, Baldwin Ho, Beth Roberts, Bronwyn Townsend, Charlotte Aimée Hulme, Deborah Arantes, Eulanda Shead Osagiede, Laurel Waldron, Lauren Hughes, Omo Osagiede, Penny Lee Brown, Sophie Davis, Zana Wilberforce

WELLBEING Alexandra Delf Anji McGrandles

ADVERTISING SALES Adelle Booth

DESIGN

Gillian Maher

LIFE ENDS, LOVE DOESN'T

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CLASSIFIEDS Lee Barber

n Articles in this volume were written during 2020/21 and all travel restrictions were adhered to when working on these pieces. We advise all travellers to check the restrictions in their area and the place they wish to travel to before making plans. All information is correct at the time of article submission. n Cover image: Chris Spencer-Payne THE

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Inspiring and galvanising

MADRID NO FRILLS Little did Leah Pattem know when meeting two madrileños at university, the path this friendship would take her on. Madrid No Frills is ‘an independent, grassroots media platform exploring the issues that define Madrid today’ and has been featured in places as diverse as El País and Accidentally Wes Anderson… Words: ANNA WILLATT

ne weekend, 13 years ago, Leah visited those friends at their family’s organic olive farm – “it was just a weekend – but one of those amazing, really memorable weekends”, says Leah, “where you just remember the colour of the sky and the fish bones on the floor”. That bright February weekend – and the No Frills bars visited - stayed with her and one day, 8 years ago, she decided to give Madrid a go and has never looked back. Madrid is her home – and the star of her work at Madrid No Frills.

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HOC: Madrid No Frills is 5 years old this summer – congrats! How has it evolved over this time?

I spent a year in Madrid back in 2006 and it seems to have changed so much since then, what have you seen?

Leah: Thanks! Yes, it started as a local, local blog for people who live in Madrid. No so much for people visiting Madrid, as they didn’t come to see these sorts of things. It quickly evolved into something more like an independent media outlet – opinion-based and very local but very direct stories – completely independent journalism. The blog is about Madrid, but it’s in English so it has quite a diverse audience. The stats for Instagram say that 50% of the audience lives in Spain and I know there are a lot of people around the world that are from here and find more connection with Madrid through this blog, than through a Spanish one or Spanish newspaper. I get so many comments and messages about people feeling closer to home. There is a balance to strike between photos of beautiful Madrid (like the one featured on AWA) and more difficult issues – I guess it’s like a standard newspaper in a sense, we cover a bit of everything. The common theme is Madrid – celebrating and defending what is good about it.

My first thought is how much gentrification has impacted, on a local scale. Gentrification is sometimes considered to be something that happens on the high street, but it really is penetrating everyone’s lives very deeply here. I’ve seen such huge changes in local businesses. When I first arrived, there were so many no frills bars and traditional fishmongers. They are now, almost, legendary – they are normal high street shops! Of course, displacement of people is now very common. We’re seeing a lot of young people in Lavapiés. There are increasingly people wearing suits in the area – it’s usually only estate agents you see in suits, but there are more now – and I’m getting suspicious. There are two types of gentrification – the one we are most familiar with – and then there’s hyper-gentrification, which is done intentionally by the city council. They pave streets and make areas more attractive – which in a way is good – but this pushes the rents right up. This is being done intentionally as Madrid is run by a

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Coco Icon right-wing council. It feels, honestly, like social cleansing – rent increases are insane. When I first arrived, it was 700€ for a 2-bed apartment and now it’s easily 1500€! In 8 years, it has doubled and that’s because the area is more desirable. The individual businesses are disappearing for the chains to move in. That’s really shocking. The role of travel journalism in glorifying gentrification, for instance a new hotel, makes me feel uneasy – and something we are looking into more critically. How do you think someone can be a conscious traveller in Spain? I don’t really focus on the traveller, but I am aware of the traveller in Madrid. I’d say to the traveller to look around, see what people are doing and imitate the behaviours. You need to respect the local situation. Spain has an inferiority and ‘tourist saviour’ complex so can be afraid of telling tourists off. Do as the locals do. Many tourist things fall into Franco-era tourism – like eating paella in the centre of Madrid. It’s good to challenge your imagination of Spain, do you really think it’s bullfighting? Very true. Let’s talk more about your work… Oh, that question, what do you do – how long have we got?! If someone wants a quick answer, I’ll say, I’m a teacher. Even, where are you from? Is a complicated one for me. There are so many layers to everything. The easiest answer is probably, I make money. Great answer, I’ll use that sometime! So, you teach in addition to Madrid No Frills? When I came to Madrid, I was teaching English and I really enjoyed it. My background is actually in Climate Science but at the moment I work for a university, working with students who come from other countries and essentially, teaching them MNF, in person - what is happening in the city, and what they need to know. It’s a total accidental job, I just pitched a course to a university. It’s a dream job, really! That’s my main source of income – around once a month I write for more

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“THESE BARS INTERSECT EVERYONE, EVEN A POSH MAN WITH A MERCEDES PARKED OUTSIDE, AN ABUELA WHO JUST COMES IN FOR THE SNAILS TO A HANDFUL OF YOUNG TOURISTS.” mainstream publications, and I sell prints and run courses through MNF. Bit of a patchwork career, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. How do you feel taking your work to bigger channels – do you fear that your work will be diluted? That’s such a huge topic – we could talk about it for hours. I don’t love writing for mainstream publications, but it does build my credit as a writer. ‘Just a blogger’ gets boosted by ‘oh, she writes for the Guardian’. It’s a label that can be helpful. The articles do end up so neutral, I’m not allowed to get my opinion in there, I have to follow their rules. They may use words I don’t want to use when editing, refer to the communities I am writing about in ways I wouldn’t. Unfortunately, the media is run by the elite, Oxbridge lot. Unless you tap into that to some extent, no-one will trust you. With all the smoke and mirrors out there, how do you keep balance while digging into topics? When you get into something, you can just keep going deeper and deeper. I think it’s how I get close to burning out – it’s a warning sign that I’ve done enough on a topic. I could also burn out my audience. I’m super sceptical, generally but I try and explain that to people in a positive narrative – you can see it this way, or you can see it another way. People are way too easily persuadable by the media. It feels a bit odd sometimes, one second, I’m writing about a no frills bar, and the next a

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“IT’S A BIT OF A PATCHWORK CAREER, BUT I WOULDN’T HAVE IT ANY OTHER WAY.” migrant issue – there’s no transition online. Media is profit-driven and that’s where MNF is different as we don’t take advertising. It was a conscious decision I made from day 1. So many people thought that I was mad - I get like 25k readers a month, I could monetise, but it would just change things. But, I have the luxury to make that decision! I have another job, I’m child-free, I have time. Do you have a plan for the future – or are you seeing where the wind takes you? That’s how my life is – I see where the wind takes me – and MNF is the same. I couldn’t honestly predict where it’s going to be in the next 5 years. Everything that has happened in the past few years has been mad – from collaborating with Madrid Secreto, one of the biggest blogs in Spain, to doing ‘Madrid Election Talk’ – and running my course, Bloggers of the Future, 3 times. These things pop into my head one day and, before I know it, they are happening! I have no idea what is going to happen next. I do have a kind of plan, as MNF has become a socially conscious blog, I’m going to push more education out of the blog. It would be cool to try to teach people everything from photography to ethics – that’s probably where I’m going in the short term. Refreshing for everything to not be plan-driven and more about conscious decisions and seeing where they take you. I couldn’t tell you what I was doing next week. I’ve never had a plan ever. It’s quite natural to

surround yourself with people like you and I find Madrid quite a transitional city. The area that I live in, is a bit of everything. Madrid has the lowest birth rate in Europe so there are a lot of people here who are childfree, people who pay their rent, move around and leave for the summer and come back. I’ve made a decision to be here, around people like me. I think the only people who judge me are my parents who can’t even begin to imagine what I do for a living! That said, I’m pretty sure that my dad was quite carefree, he came from India and travelled around the world, working. It was when he moved to Newcastle that he settled down – so maybe it is a hereditary thing – and I’ve just not had kids so I’m carrying on, basically! I’m booking a plane ticket now! Let’s wrap up with this challenging question – of all no frills bars, across the world, where has been your favourite? Let’s go all the way from Newcastle to India and back to Spain. The No Frills chippies –massive refillable cups of tea, pensioners coming in for their lunch at 11.30am. Then we’ve got the bars in Mumbai - the men only bars that are basically shacks, where people stand around with tumblers of hot whiskey. I remember being the only woman in one! Then Madrid is somehow halfway between the two. Spain does No Frills bars in such similar, perfect ways. It’s all about being stood up in a ramshackle environment and being surrounded by people from all walks of life. These bars intersect everyone, even a posh man with a Mercedes parked outside, an abuela who just comes in for the snails to a handful of young tourists. n n Read Leah and her team’s independent journalism at madridnofrills.com If you are looking to start a socially conscious blog, or brush up on your interviewing skills, keep your eyes peeled on @madridnofrills for the next class of Bloggers of the Future, a 4-week virtual programme to learn how to interview, investigate and analyse to inspire and galvanise.

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An ode to the

EUROPEAN HOLIDAY

Words: LYDIA MATTHEWS

allorca had always been our one-stop holiday destination. From the multifamily ‘kids of the same age’, fly and flop holidays of our teens where we were allowed to go to Magaluf for one night (albeit with our brothers, cousins and sisters) to finally visiting by ourselves fresh out of university. The island is very special for my best friend and I. On our girls’ trips my food and drink memories consist of sipping on cool Cruzcampo cans that we would clandestinely swap for ruby red rioja for any pictures we were snapping. In the evenings we would graze on tomatoes buttery with olive oil and cheap and cheerful squid bought from the local markets that sizzled on the BBQ. Gin and tonics the size of our heads with fresh lemons, sliced Iberico ham, padrón peppers and lashings of aioli would feature during golden hour on the balcony of whichever little apartment we rented for the week. The sea makes you hungry, and thirsty. On one of our annual pilgrimages however, we decided to go rogue. It was time for the ante to be upped. For a birthday we had a table at Zaranda, the only two Michelin-starred restaurant on the Balearic Islands. The restaurant sits snugly within Castell Son Claret, a former 19th century castle and luxury hotel at the foot of the peak ‘Puig de Galatzó’ in the heart of the mountains. We were under no illusion this was

going to be the most extra night of our lives. Dolled up to the nines in our chicest attire (linen dresses from H&M), we indulged in some pre-dinner cocktails. We washed down our excitement with the signature Tramuntana cocktail in the bar at the front of the property. In the summer, guests can have a predinner drink on the terrace overlooking the gardens - we were travelling off season. Humming with excitement with other eager eaters, we sat tight in the historic cave like watering-hole. We sipped on our cocktails that were made with sharp lemon juice, palo and homemade syrup made from the surrounding estate. As part of the ‘zero-kilometre cocktail concept’ many ingredients come from the castle’s own garden. After our pre-performance drinks, we moseyed into an almost antechamber before the curtains into the restaurant opened and we were led to our seats. We were in for a show. And quite literally, the restaurant offers a view into the kitchen, so guests can voyeuristically catch a glimpse of the chefs at work. We ordered the set menu with the wine pairing. There was a little shuffle with the waiter and the sommelier. Did they not think we could handle it? Megan is size eight, tall and svelte – did they not think she would make it? Bring on the first course. The first thing that was put before us was plated on an Aztec-styled hand with three gold dusted delicacies with flavours inspired by three different

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THERE WAS A COURSE THAT WAS LIT UP WITH AQUA LIGHTS SERVING UP SEAFOOD FROM THE CARIBBEAN SHORES...

countries. The waiter introduced it as the ‘Spices Route, The Power of the Hands’. Venezuela was tequeños , a fried breaded cheese spear. Colombia was almojábana , a type of bread made with cuajada cheese and corn flour and Mexico was tostadas de cochinita pibil, toasted shredded succulent pork and beans. We were hooked, they had got us and we were ready to eat whatever was put on the table. Nine opulent courses lay ahead. What followed were dishes and flavours that we had never seen or tasted before. There was a course that was lit up with aqua lights serving up seafood from the Caribbean shores paired with an albariño , the swashbuckling ‘S´Àmfora’ - paprika spiced octopus and potato veloute with the thick tentacles finding their way out of an intricate vase right before us and the ‘fish market’ dish, a pho tai of crustaceans and freshly made succulent noodles. We had gobbled and relished everything so far and took a break whilst we sipped on our 15-year-old sherry from Jerez, like

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we were returning conquistadors regaling tales from new lands. We laughed at the glorious reactions of other diners as fantastically foods were placed before them. The second half was a blur of intricate, abundant and quite ludicrously delicious treats. A Mallorcan inspired dish with black egg, white onion and cuttlefish caviar, paired with a stunning crisp white wine from the island, an ‘aguiat’ stew of conger eel with baby peas and potato which we were not hotly anticipating but which was actually one of the stand out dishes, smooth risotto with spring garlic aioli, juicy veal with Matsu 2015 El Viejo Toro that completely enveloped the taste with its blackberry notes. To finish we were served the delicious sweet goat’s cheese burrata with strawberries and fresh basil paired with a naturally syrupy Spanish dessert wine from Jumilla that had been aged for three months in oak barrels. We were so full we felt like we needed to age for three months in oak barrels but we had to prove to the

restaurant that we were worthy of this feast. At the end, we hung back like any crazed fan after a London show, hoping to catch a glimpse. To our delight, the famed chef, Fernando P. Arellano came out to chat to his diners and was genuinely interested in what we had to say. Unlike any other dining out experience, we had the time of our lives but knew we would never return. And that was perfect. I looked across the table as the genius chef did the rounds, at my friend who has shaped my life so utterly monumentally and felt lucky we had this moment of indulgence. It was truly worth every penny. The events of the pandemic have meant that I will never take for granted easily hopping over for a holiday to Mallorca on a low cost airline for some sun, smell of sun cream, and salty sea. I quite frankly didn’t know how lucky I was. Now more than ever I am so glad we pushed the boat out and have these unbelievable morsels to mull over. We’ve dined out on the memory more times than I can count. n

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LECH: A DESTNATION FOR ALL SEASONS Whether you love to ski, hike, bake or even try a spot of mountain top yoga, Lech in Austria is the place to be. In winter, it’s a ski bunny’s paradise and receives up to twice as much snow as some of its alpine counterparts, but it’s also a delight in the warmer months, as EMMA HARRISON discovers

ravelling to Lech is a breeze. You can either fly into Innsbruck or Zurich – both of which make for a scenic drive or why not get the train? Langen am Arlberg is just 15 km away from the centre of Lech. There is also a special ski coach that you can take in winter which takes you directly from Zurich to the hotel. We stayed in the beautiful and charming Hotel Arlberg which is conveniently situated in the heart of this picturesque town. This five-star ski and wellness boutique hotel is a luxury alpine retreat brimming with character and is run by a friendly and professional family team who have previously hosted the likes of Princess Diana. The décor is luxurious yet eclectic and has subtle nods to its mountain surroundings. Think rustic cool where you will find both objet d’art and stylish accessories sitting sideby-side. The rooms are huge and elegantly furnished. We loved spending time in the hotel’s elegant spa where you can enjoy relaxing massages,

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rejuvenating facials and more. We highly recommend the Susanne Kaufmann facial which will bring your winter weary skin back to life in the space of just one hour. Wellness is certainly a huge theme in Lech. The town and its inhabitants pride themselves on relaxation and rejuvenation. Locals and tourists are encouraged to take part in holistic activities such as barefoot hiking, sound walking and more. There is so much to do in Lech and it really is a great destination for skiing. However, if you would prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground (as opposed to in a pair of skis) then Lech won’t disappoint. You can try your hand at some mountain top yoga in the spring, pilates or even a cookery class at the hotel where you can make some delicious local delicacies under the watchful eye of the hotel’s acclaimed pastry chef. Wine lovers simply must try the hotel’s wine

tasting experience where co-owner Patrick will take you through a superb selection of wines that are certain to impress. If you didn’t love Austrian wine before you arrived in Lech, you will certainly leave Austria with a new passion for the region’s wines. If you are looking to try a variety of different activities, we recommend that you acquire a ‘My Lech’ card which will give you access to lots of fun things to do in the warmer months in Lech. From admiring the views from a cable car to taking an e-bike tour where you can navigate your way down the mountain. You can even take a herb hiking tour where you can discover the best that nature has to offer in this pretty town. Lech is definitely one of the prettiest towns in Austria, so make sure that you add this to your vision board. n n arlberghotel.at THE

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MORE THAN JUST GOLF: ARGENTARIO GOLF RESORT & SPA

Words: HANNAH TAN-GILLIES 20

uring those hopeful summer months, in between lockdowns and when international travel seemed optimistic, Hannah Tan-Gillies hopped on a flight to Argentario Golf Resort & Spa, to see what makes this fivestar golf resort so much more than a golf destination. It seems only fair, that after months of my four walls that my first international jaunt would be to the truly impeccable Argentario Gold Resort & Spa. Located in between the Mediterranean Sea and Tuscany’s rolling hills, Argentario maximises the idyllic natural surroundings of Maremma, Tuscany. While the resort is primarily known to golf enthusiasts, especially with its striking PGA 18-hole course, there are plenty of reasons for non-golfers to venture to this side of Tuscany and experience everything that this resort has to offer. The resort itself is a sight to behold. Designed by Andrea Fogli, the interiors instantly envelope you in an atmosphere of sleek yet tranquil oasis, blending contemporary design with a distinctive retro feel. Outside, the hotel blends in with the natural landscapes of Maremma, surrounded by cork-oak woods and centuries-old olive trees. A grand spiral staircase commands attention at the heart of the resort,

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whose eco-conscious design philosophy permeates every design detail. The enormous glass windows and ceilings maximise the pastoral views, which are in stark contrast to the tabarca-stone pavements, arched countertops and striking black structural elements. The hotel’s unique dragonfly-shaped silhouette means that every room offers panoramic views of the nearby lagoon and tranquil blue sea on the horizon. The resort offers 73 generouslysized rooms and five luxury villas, which are perfectly suited for those looking for an extended stay. Each room features panoramic terraces and all the modern amenities that a luxury traveller requires. The villas each offer individual interpretations of Tuscan country houses, imbued, of course, with Fogli’s extravagant touches. Art lovers will notice the social table by Vincent Van Duysen or the Cappellini chairs and Pig Tables by Marcel Wanders, or even Ron Gilad’s chandeliers at the bar. Beyond golf, Argentario also offers THE

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THE MENU AT DAMA DAMA IS BOLD AND REFRESHINGLY CONTEMPORARY, OFFERING TUSCAN AND ITALIAN SPECIALTIES WITH CHEF EMILIANO LOMBARDELLI’S INIMITABLE FLAIR an endless array of wellness and sports activities to make any visit, no matter how short or long, as enriching as possible. During my stay, I tried my hand at an outdoor workout, a run along the perfectly manicured golf course, yoga, and even olive-tree picking. Truly there was something for everybody. For those looking for a more relaxing way to spend their days, the resort’s Espace Wellness Centre offers a wide range of treatments and massages, and offers a bio sauna, Turkish bath, and even one-on-one sessions with the resort’s inhouse nutritionists. Foodies also have plenty to chew on at Argentario, with the Club House Restaurant offering casual Italian favourites, impeccably made with only the freshest locally-sourced ingredients, and the gourmet Dama Dama restaurant serving some wonderfully creative gastronomic creations. The menu at Dama Dama is bold and refreshingly contemporary, offering Tuscan and Italian specialties with Chef Emiliano Lombardelli’s inimitable flair. We highly recommend trying the Tasting Menu – which takes you on a colourful voyage of Tuscan flavours perfectly paired with local Italian wines from the resort’s vast wine cellar. We’d also encourage a cocktail masterclass at the Aper Bar, named after local wild boars (Aper in Latin) which offers alchemic concoctions that will delight those who enjoy a little tipple. While it may seem counter-intuitive to leave the hotel, the nearby towns of Porto Ercole and Orbetello offer plenty of quintessentially Italian sights to behold. These two towns reveal a non-tourist 22

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side of Tuscany that we haven’t seen before. The squares and restaurants are filled with locals, exuding a relaxed and unique community atmosphere that you don’t often see in Italy’s more popular destinations. You should take a quick drive to the Convento della Presentazione al Tempio, where if you are lucky, you can get a blessing from the priest who will wish you a blessed and happy stay at Maremma. This is also the perfect spot to watch the sun set over the Silver Coast, a view that is not known to many other visitors in this magical place. Despite all the ceaselessly fascinating things on offer at Argentario, what sets this place apart from the rest is the truly marvellous service and care of its staff. After the past year, where smiles and genuine human connection are few and far between, it is truly impressive to see the staff at Argentario go above and beyond to ensure that you enjoy your stay. That is a rarity itself and in my opinion, truly what makes Argentario more than a golf destination. n

n Hannah stayed in a Junior Suite Club Travel Room starting at €650 per night for two people. n For more information on Argentario Golf Resort & Spa’s latest offers and packages contact booking@argentarioresort.it or visit argentarioresort.com

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Slow travel in I taly WHAT I LEARNT FROM SIX MONTHS OF WORK EXCHANGE

Back in late 2019, CHLOE LAY quit her job to spend some time abroad. Little did she know, her whole outlook on life was about to change. Six months later, Chloe had a revelation and decided she wanted to live a different kind of life...

’d never given much thought to slow travel. Like most people, I booked trips with the idea of seeing as much as possible in a short space of time – ideally for a low price. The temptation to thumb through a guidebook or find an online list of a city’s ‘must-sees’ was enormous, and I’d often visit somewhere only if it looked like it had plenty to keep me busy. But in 2019, my partner and I left our full-time jobs on a bit of a whim, with just a loose plan to spend some time in our favourite country, Italy. We had no money saved up, no jobs in the pipeline and, frankly, no idea what we were doing! Then, just a few weeks before we were due to leave, we heard about ‘work exchange’, and everything fell into place. Work exchange is a system that allows travellers to volunteer help of some kind – teaching a language, cooking and cleaning, working on a farm – in exchange for room and board. There’s not usually any money involved, so hosts can get free help around the house without exploiting their guests, and volunteers can earn their accommodation and food, meaning they

can save money on their travel costs. It’s win-win. As soon as I heard about work exchange, I thought it sounded perfect. It was easy enough to find willing hosts, as there are several online platforms that provide lists of people looking for help, and volunteers can message them to arrange their trip. My partner and I both had a layman’s interest in learning about growing our own food, so despite never having worked outdoors a day in our lives, we chose to work on farm-stays – why not push ourselves totally out of our comfort zones, right? As soon as we arrived at our first host’s home – a family farmhouse in EmiliaRomagna’s verdant countryside – we realised that this had been a good idea. The work was taxing but rewarding, and we were glad to be learning new skills and enjoying the fresh country air. We were given a comfortable room, delicious Italian food and plenty of downtime, meaning we could explore the area around us and get to know our hosts better. It was during our time here that I first started to think more about slow travel and its numerous benefits.

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pasktiang ma

TOP TIPS FOR A GREAT WORK EXCHANGE n Read host reviews.

Most sites allow hosts and volunteers to review each other after a stay. Have a read through some reviews and make sure you like what you see before you apply for a position.

n Communicate clearly. When messaging potential hosts, try to get a clear understanding of how much work they’ll expect from you and what you’ll get in return – all your meals or just some? A room to yourself or in a dorm?

n Be enthusiastic. Look for work you really want to do, then get stuck in when you arrive. It’ll be a few hours each day out of your trip, so make sure you’re enjoying it.

n Dive in! A huge benefit of work exchange is the chance to get the inside scoop on a place. Grasp any opportunities that are presented to you and enjoy every moment. Work exchange curious? Head over to:

n Workaway (Chloe used this one)

n Worldpackers n Help X n WWOOF n Hippohelp n HelpStay

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WHAT IS SLOW TRAVEL?

Most travel today involves either relaxing on a beach or rushing around trying to cram in as much sight-seeing as possible during time off work. Travelling like this makes it hard to ever really connect to a place, its culture, its people. Slow travel aims to combat this. Inspired by the slow food movement, it’s about moving slowly, spending longer in each destination and getting to know the real ins and outs of a particular place, making each trip more positive and meaningful. It’s all about travelling mindfully and more sustainably. The environmental positives of slow travel are numerous. Spending more time somewhere means it may be feasible to avoid aeroplanes and opt for more ecofriendly modes of transport instead. Once you arrive, you might be able to travel on foot or by bike if you aren’t in such a rush to see all the tourist hotspots. By skipping over those places worst affected by mass tourism, you’ll also be more likely to support local businesses and communities. As well as benefits to the local area, slow travel can have a huge impact on the sense of self. ISSUE

SEE LESS, EXPERIENCE MORE

Staying with work exchange hosts turned out to be the perfect way to travel more slowly. Over the course of six months, my partner and I stayed with five host families in three regions of Italy, one of them for almost three months. This allowed us to experience what real life was like in each place and to form friendships that will last a lifetime. Our hosts wanted to share their homes with us so that we could get more from our time with them, and we were met with such generosity that we always felt like we got the better end of the deal. Using work exchange for free accommodation also meant that we were able to visit nearby tourist hotspots if we wanted, but we were also able to stop contributing to mass tourism and reduce our environmental footprint on the places we visited. We became connected to a slower and more natural way of life. Considering how long we spent in a fairly small geographical area, we didn’t see as much as you might expect. Instead, we fell totally in love with each place we stayed and learnt so much about ourselves and the way we want to live. The experiences I had changed the way

a n g a m o R a i l i m E

to appreciate my body in a totally new way. I felt stronger than I ever had before, and I learnt to love my body for its ability to do rather than disliking it for its failure to be a certain way. I’ve struggled with chronic illness for the past decade, and physical labour isn’t something I ever thought would be possible for me. But working with my body for six months taught me that it’s capable of more than I’d realised. Since my stint volunteering, I’ve hiked from Florence to Venice, covering almost 300km and crossing a mountain range, all on foot.

ONE HOST HAD VERY LITTLE TO GIVE BUT GAVE US EVERYTHING HE HAD ANYWAY... HIS GENEROSITY AND OPENNESS OF SPIRIT HAS INSPIRED ME TO GIVE BACK IN WHATEVER WAY I CAN... It’s my greatest achievement to date, but it never would have happened without my new-found respect for my body. It can do amazing things.

GENEROSITY IS POWERFUL – AND CATCHING The hosts I stayed with were nothing but generous to my partner and me. They opened their homes and welcomed us with open arms. This generosity and openness to new experiences felt like a paradigm shift for me. One host had very little to give but gave us everything he had anyway, providing free-flowing Italian wine (a huge perk!) and incredible homecooked meals made with mushrooms he had foraged from the local area. It often felt like we weren’t giving enough in return. His generosity and openness of spirit has inspired me to give back in whatever way I can. Waste not want not. Most travel leads to a huge amount of waste and encourages a throwaway culture. We’ve all visited the gift shops that surround major tourist sights and left with arms overflowing with knickknacks that we inevitably bin after a THE

few months. Travelling mindfully and staying with people who were more eco-conscious allowed me to develop a greater appreciation for the food I eat and the waste I generate. Nothing our hosts bought, grew or reared was wasted, and many of the homes we stayed in were powered only by solar panels or hydro-electricity. This made me more considerate of the energy I use and the impact my daily activities have on the planet. The way most people travel lends itself well to box-checking and sightseeing instead of actually experiencing a place. People race to visit as many countries as they can and to see the top five attractions while they’re there. There’s nothing wrong with this if it’s the way you like to travel – who am I to tell you how to spend your time off? I’m not trying to convince you that slow and steady always wins the race, only that it’s a race I don’t want to be a part of anymore. Whether I’m travelling or at home, working or relaxing, slow travel has taught me the importance of finding the good in day-to-day life and taking a moment to really appreciate what’s going on around me. n PERSPECTIVES

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Danny McCubbin is a food campaigner, a social entrepreneur and a mentor who spent 17 years honing his skills whilst working for the chef, Jamie Oliver. In 2020 Danny bought a house in Sicily for one euro, he set up a crowd funder and successfully raised the necessary money to refurbish the house and turn it into a Community Kitchen. SUSIE SANDFORD SMITH caught up with Danny to ask him more about the One Euro House project.

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Why did you choose to buy in Italy and how did you come to decide on Sicily?

I had been volunteering for years in Italy at San Patrignano, which is the world’s most successful drug rehabilitation community. I’d made quite a few friends in Italy and it was my dream that when I left Jamie Oliver I would move there. I’m Australian, I feel a lot of affinity between Australia and Italy, the food, the culture, the way of life. I started researching the One Euro House project and then in 2019 I was going to be a contributor on a TV programme that followed people as they move to Sicily and renovate a One Euro House. I was going to collaborate with San Patrignano on the project. So that’s how I first found Mussomeli. The show was cancelled because of the pandemic but I decided to still come and live here. I love this town because there’s no train station, it’s away from all the tourist areas but it’s got everything you need… I’ve had the best dental care I’ve ever had here. And the people are so incredibly kind and friendly. You’ve just bought a house in Mussomeli, was it always your intention that the One Euro House wouldn’t be your home?

It was always my intention that this wouldn’t be my house that I would own, I’m in the process of setting up a charity and the house will belong to the charity. Originally I had intended this as a half-way house for residents of San Patrignano. But when I moved here I realised that I wanted the project to benefit Mussomeli. I set up two Community Kitchens in London during the pandemic and that gave me the idea.

I don’t want to live in the community kitchen, that would be like being at work all the time! Plus, it’s where the volunteers and student chefs will live. Tell us, why did you buy a one euro house?

The house I’ve bought for myself has the tiniest kitchen but the One Euro House has a stable that we can use for deliveries and a kitchen that is big enough to cook lots of meals in. I like the idea that we’re already building community by building the community kitchen. Is it tricky to buy them as second homes?

In Mussomeli there are people moving here to live, and there are Europeans who have second homes here - even before the One Euro House project, Europeans were buying here because it’s cheaper. We’re 45 minutes from the sea, we’re not near a major town. The town embraces anyone who wants to buy here, their only wish is that you integrate. Even if you have a second home, you’re still contributing to paying for utilities, paying for services, and paying for food while you’re here. The town is welcoming to everyone. What advice would you give anyone thinking of buying a One Euro House?

Do your research.There are lots of places available and lots of areas in Italy that are running schemes. You can’t just buy a house off the internet, you need to go and see it in person. Visit as many towns as you can and THE

find out exactly what is entailed. Because there are some horror stories too… What I love about Mussomeli is there are no hidden costs, everything is transparent, you only have to renovate the house within three years. The estate agent here speaks English, if you have any concerns you can ask, that’s the key. Don’t come and think that you’re going to make a living here, it’s best if you have something remote, for instance I do social media consultancy. What have you learnt (about yourself) through this process?

Patience. I’ve learnt how to let go. How to survive without all the normal distractions in life like shopping, television, movies. I’ve learnt that I’m okay just sitting there, being still. I’m happy. And I want to spread that. I want people to know that they can take a leap of faith as well. n

n For all things One Euro House project in Italy see Case1euro.it

n Keep up to date with Danny’s Community Kitchen and day to day life in Mussomeli at @dannyforgood and see his website, Goodforgood.com, which includes further advice on buying a one euro home

n Further information on the community Danny mentions can be found here sanpatrignano.org/en/ PERSPECTIVES

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OWNING YOUR F

or years I had been shying away from really shouting about my achievements, especially among my friends. I was weighed down by a sense of guilt and I couldn’t quite pinpoint where it stemmed from or why I was experiencing it, but it hung around every time I had something worth celebrating. Promotions, pay rises, personal achievements. I’ve reduced the celebration of most of these events for fear my ‘good life’ would make others feel awful. I’ve had friends who had some terrible relationship situations, others dealing with family troubles, then the pandemic hit and it seemed that everyone around me was having a hard time while socially isolated - some furloughed, others struggling with less than ideal living situations. Through all of this, I had for the most part been feeling pretty great. But when asked ‘how are you?’ I’d fall in line with what my peers were saying, an echo chamber of ‘oh you know how it is…’ or ‘yeah, doing okay thanks, just soldiering on’. The reality couldn’t have been more different. As a child and through to early adulthood, I revelled in excelling, achieving brilliant grades and outperforming my fellow classmates. I was always an overachiever, taking on more subjects than required, undertaking my degree while working full-time or freelancing. That started to change as I was regularly being told to be more humble, to practise modesty and avoid indulging in pride. If only I’d realised how damaging this would come to be. I stopped sharing my good news, reserving it only for my immediate family and my partner. I didn’t want to seem too proud, too ambitious, too eager. I didn’t want to rub my good fortune in the face of those who were having a hard time. Every time someone would tell me they weren’t feeling great, or that life wasn’t panning out as they had planned, I was struck with the pang of guilt that perhaps I wasn’t meant to be feeling good. I began to wonder if there was something wrong with me. It wasn’t until I confided in a few people close to me that I realised I had only been

YES!

There’s been plenty of discussion around the automatic response, ‘I’m fine’, when asked how we are, and the damage not being honest with ourselves and those around us causes. But what about downplaying our successes for fear we’re not responding the ‘right way’? Words: BRONWYN TOWNSEND hurting myself, rather than protecting those around me. I had been diminishing my achievements, brushing off the moments I should be celebrating and trying to process this confusing sense of guilt. It was time I started owning my yes! and realising exactly what that meant.

WHY WE MUSTN’T TRIVIALISE THE BEST BITS

WHETHER IT’S MONEY IN THE BANK, A NEW ENGAGEMENT, OR SIMPLY FEELING FAN-BLOODY-TASTIC, WE NEED TO OWN IT

It was only when I vocalised how I was feeling that I discovered I wasn’t alone. There were others out there, mostly women, who felt that they had to play the role; to underplay their highlights and subdue their celebrations. It was time that had to change, for all of us. The reality is that we aren’t doing anybody a favour by pretending to be something we aren’t or feeling a way that doesn’t really match our true emotions. It’s time we let go of the guilt for achieving, for succeeding, for simply feeling good. I eased myself in, dipping my toes into the waters of owning my successes and sharing that with those around me. First it was admitting I enjoyed furlough and soaking up the summer sunshine during the first lockdown. That I wasn’t struggling through it all and that I was enjoying having free time to spend however I pleased for the first time in years. I had hobbies that were fulfilling, books to be read, photos to be taken and slow, small moments to embrace. As I shared these glimpses into my true feelings, some women I spoke with shared my experience, they were happy. But they didn’t know they were allowed to be when others were suffering. I saw the same thing as colleagues and peers were promoted and kept it quiet, they didn’t want to seem out of touch with the rest of the going ons in the world. But sharing these tidbits was liberating. We’re routinely taught to be polite, modest, and not to indulge in too much pride. But I say let that go. If we can’t even

celebrate our own amazing moments in life, then who will? There is no greater cheerleader for you than yourself. As we learn to let go of the constraints that hold us back, we free ourselves to grow. Tapping into our creativity, our passions, our why. Whether it’s money in the bank, a new engagement, or simply feeling fan-bloody-tastic, we need to own it. Those who naturally tend towards positivity may find transitioning into the role of owning their achievements easier, but it’s important for all of us to make concerted efforts to celebrate. From the self-esteem boosting benefits to acting as a powerful motivator, acknowledging when life is good should be embraced. You don’t need to transform overnight, baby steps can work just as well. Pushing the perimeters of your comfort zone and rendering impressive feats, the results of paying tribute to the moments that fulfil you are invaluable. The reality is, we shouldn’t feel guilty for being happy, for feeling good or celebrating our accomplishments. We shouldn’t feel the need to keep these things secret for fear of hurting those around us. It’s time we let our light shine. A year on from admitting when life is feeling rather peachy, I’m not without the moments that are less than deserving of a spot on the highlights reel of life. However, I’m learning the balance, the good with the bad, when to accept that I’m feeling good and being accountable for it, rather than trying to stuff it into a box it doesn’t belong in. I’m also learning to curb that little green monster that rears up occasionally when I hear and see others owning their best moments. Life is not a competition, we’re all on different paths and journeys. I cannot compare my situation with that of another person, but I can help them own their yes! too. When we realise this isn’t a race, but rather a healthy approach to life, we’ll all carry less weight and shine bright. So the question is, are you ready? n

KNOW YOUR LIMITS

Words: LAUREN KATE HUGHES

oundaries? I don’t know her. Balance? Who is she? It is safe to say the pandemic has well and truly scuppered our routines, and healthy boundaries have been the collateral damage. Working from home has become living at work and separating the two is becoming more and more difficult. So much so, that ministers in the UK are being urged to create a new ‘right to disconnect’ law for home workers. Yes, the constant ping of emails is irritating when trying to settle into an evening wind-down routine, but even more than that, it’s potentially damaging to our health. There’s a price to pay when it comes to sacrificing balance. The big problem with poor boundaries is that it’s a fast track to burnout. When you keep saying yes to someone else and no to yourself, you’ll soon feel depleted. Burnout can have serious consequences, with unaddressed job or social burnout linked to fatigue, insomnia, depression, Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. In short, burnout has the potential to rob you of your health. Healthy boundaries are your best defence. When you set a boundary in place that protects your mental wellbeing, you protect your physical

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wellbeing too, as well as sending a firm message to others about your limits. “Boundaries help us to feel contained, but also let people know how you want and expect to be treated and where you draw the line,” Jay Perkins, a psychotherapist and founder of Partisan UK told us. “They are helpful when negotiating relationships and they protect us from being taken advantage of; they allow us to push back or say no to things that fall outside of these boundaries or that make us feel uncomfortable.” After a turbulent time for many both personally and on a global scale, it’s time to rebuild, and instilling healthy boundaries is a way to safeguard your own mental health. By setting – and sticking to – clear boundaries, we’re able to work smarter, not harder, and ensure our personal - as well as professional – needs are being met. Get ready to revel in the glorious ‘No’.

THE PLIGHT OF THE PEOPLE PLEASER

People pleasers, no disrespect intended. It’s not a bad thing to want to be there for others. But as the old adage goes, you cannot pour from that empty cup. Especially when said cup is working longer hours, questioning their financial security and dealing with the emotional fallout of a global pandemic. Now

more than ever, it’s so important to check in with your own needs. “People often find boundaries hard to stick to, because we want to feel needed and there’s very much a culture of glorifying being needed and busy,” Lauren Brady, founder of Lauren Brady Yoga and wellbeing coach told us. “If someone asks us to do something and we’re instantly available, put simply, it makes you feel bad. We glamorise being busy, but no down time comes with risks to our mental health.” So, why else do we succumb to

pressure to blur our boundaries from other people? Often it can be a lack of respect from an employer, partner or friend that means we crumble. “Setting boundaries can be really difficult, not everyone will respect the boundaries we put in place, and people may try and test our limits,” Jay explains. The answer to this? Be firm. “Only you will look after yourself and say yes to the things you need. And if you say yes to those things, you need to say no to something - or someone - else,” said Lauren. “You may let someone else down in the process, but when you do say yes, you’ll show up with the right energy. If you don’t withhold your boundaries, you’ll end up resenting people.” We also need to be wary of burnout in our personal lives, too. “Everything in life is an energy exchange; in the same way, physical activity like a workout can lead to better health and wellbeing, so can the interactions we have with others,” Renee Saliba, founder of Lethally Her, a planner for women that helps you prioritise your own self care, told us. “The key is being able to identify whether it has left you with a positive result or completely depleted.” n

HOW TO CREATE HEALTHY BOUNDARIES AND STICK TO THEM, ACCORDING TO THE EXPERTS Renee

n Don’t start with a hard

n Try journaling:

n Choose your interactions

no: “You don’t have to say no to everything straight away, but even giving yourself the chance to think something through by saying, ‘I’ll get back to you on that,’ is good practice.” Lauren

“Journaling and specifically Lethally Her products work in a pretty special way, and that is to always put you in the emotional driver's seat of your life. Sometimes we can feel so confused and lost when it comes to our emotional wellbeing but the trick to taking control is simple. The LH diary works by making this a priority daily, providing the space and support to check-in and have honest conversations with yourself.” Renee

wisely: “The problem with not understanding our personal boundaries is that we can find ourselves wasting our precious time and emotional tank on interactions that don't serve us rather than putting that time to good use.” Renee

n Block out time in your

Lauren

Jay

schedule for things that meet your personal needs: “I plot things into my diary, and my working calendar is private. I block out time for the things I need personally, like a lunch break or an exercise class. If I need to travel somewhere, I’ll block time out for that too. If something major happens, I can always cancel, but for the most part it’s reassuring to know that my weekly routine is there.” Lauren

n Get clear on your values: “Once you know and understand your own values it's super easy to set and stick to your boundaries.” Renee

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n Define boundaries as negotiable and nonnegotiable: “There are times when we may need to compromise our boundaries, and I often find it helpful to be clear as to which boundaries are negotiable and which are nonnegotiable – the things that are essential in protecting ourselves, and align with our core values and beliefs.” Jay

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HOW I FELL BACK I N LOV E WITH LIVING

Words: LOTTIE WOODROW

aving grown tired of scrolling through social media, staring at unrealistic expectations and portrayals of reality, I decided rather than trying to replicate these ideals, instead, to romanticise my own life in the present. In the real world, away from my phone screen and all of its encompassing distractions. From a midweek coffee date with myself, reading rather than staring at my phone, to falling back in love with the city I call home, simply allowing myself these otherwise everyday pleasures, it’s enabled me to take back control of my life. Trust me, I know how addictive our phones can be. We’re a generation that’s attached to our phones 24/7, from hearing the bellowing siren alarm call from the moment we wake in the morning through to the last five minutes scrolling from one app to the next before we shut our eyes at night. Even when we’re binging endless Netflix episodes (note, yet another screen), we’re still checking our phones for updates, for some sense of entitlement or belonging. It’s an addiction that we should all be knocking on its head. Likewise, when we’re on our phones, we’re thrusted with unobtainable portraits of everyday life. It’s no secret that what we’re viewing on social media

is a distorted paradigm of reality; this too is constantly being thrown at us through headlines to remind us of its woes. It’s constructed; it’s a picture perfect version that’s sole justification is based around likes, shares and follows. One thing it’s not, is the truth. It’s so easy to get sucked into it. I’m easily distracted; I’ll be doing something for a moment and then find myself scrolling on my phone wondering how I ended up here. This is something I’ve been eager to punch out of my life. Bored of the routine I’d transposed onto myself and three national lockdowns later, I realised how unhappy scrolling on social media made me. My first few steps in ‘romanticising’ my life began by unfollowing all of the influencers, brands and accounts that left me with a feeling of internal dread. I felt defeated, tired of constantly comparing my every move with people I’d never even met, whether it was my body, my career or general day-to-day life. I’d even stopped posting because I was constantly comparing myself to the images I was seeing on the app or comparing the number of likes I’d get, which was only ever a handful. Months spent shut inside my home and too many hours spent in the depths of the online world, it was about time I realised there was more to life than simply staring at the little screen slotted in my palms. Reeling through Instagram, Twitter

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FIVE THINGS YOU CAN TRY NEXT WEEK 1

Lose yourself in a novel

Get lost in your own neighbourhood

Take in nature

Try one new thing a day

Take one day at a time

If your bedside table is getting stacked with books that you’re longing to read but don’t have the ‘time’ to, set aside 15 minutes before you go to sleep to lose yourself in the narrative.

Whether you’ve just moved to a new area or you’re living in the town you grew up in, head out and explore. Challenge yourself to only turn left at the end of every street and see where you end up.

Even if you live in a city, it’s so easy to find green spaces. Explore the trees, learn the names of flowers you find and immerse yourself in the beauty of it.

Force yourself to try one new thing a day, whether it’s trialling out a new hobby, trying a new coffee shop or rocking a new hairstyle.

It’s easy to get swept up in the reality of the everyday. Transition new steps into your daily, weekly or even monthly routine slowly and reap the rewarding feeling at the end.

and TikTok daily became second nature, it’s something I’m sure we’re all guilty of, so letting go of the daily routine of waking up, scrolling intermittently throughout the day until it’s time to sleep, was harder than I imagined. It’s like giving up coffee, the brown warming lava that greets you every morning and waving goodbye without gradually cutting it out of your daily routine. I didn’t want to give it up, I just wanted to get rid of the overwhelming feeling it caused me to endure, and in reducing my screen time and unfollowing accounts who made me miserable, it was a step forward. I wanted to gain a healthy relationship with it again, or at least attempt to. For me, writing has always been a coping

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mechanism. A safe space if you will. A way to express myself, my feelings and thoughts, away from prying eyes, so it felt natural that the first thing on my agenda for sparking this change would be to write about a list of ways to cut the habit. The list explored my hobbies, things I like to do in my spare time when I’m not clutching at my phone, and looked at ways to incorporate these more regularly back into my life, in between work and commuting. From reading and writing, to being outside in nature, these lists of words slowly became easier to put into action. I longed to be creative once more this ultimately became an overarching theme locked in the back of my mind, constantly striving for this. Reading instantly calms me, lifts me away from

the everyday mundanities and transports me into a whole new world. That’s the beauty of it, but it’s something I so often push aside when I’m stressed or busy. It’s something I always long to do but never feel I can dedicate time to it. Rather than flicking through the four social apps, I now make it my mission to bury myself in a tome instead. You’ll now find me burrowing into a make-believe land, whether that’s on my daily commute to the office, tucked in the corner of my favourite coffee shop or lying on the sofa come the weekend. Every evening after I’d finished work, home from my commute, I set myself an hour of ‘me’ time to head out on a long walk. This began largely as a way to destress and clear my head, and ironically, came a place where my creativity began to spark again. No phones were allowed; walking without distractions made me creatively light up for the first time in months. I finally felt free and started seeing things I’d often otherwise miss. It was fun to let myself get lost in my hometown, explore new areas, new places and not just be glued to my phone. This new found love emerging in my surroundings ultimately became littered with irony: I wanted to grab my phone and share it with the world. I’d always felt like I didn’t have a voice, that I didn’t have anything to share on my social channels. It was only when I stopped checking my phone that I found things that I wanted to share with the world. This small break from social media and changing my habits in a small way made me feel like sharing again. Anywhere I looked, I kept coming up with ideas for how I could engage online and eventually decided to set up a TikTok account, @TheDailyRoadside, centred around finding things in Brighton, where I live, on the side of the road. A niche topic but for the first time ever, this online space gave me somewhere I could finally belong. This semi-anonymous blog was never about me. It was always about finding beauty in my surroundings, giving a new lease of life to these objects that had been left out, abandoned and for the community to take under their own wing. You might be sitting there reading this, thinking this is so simple but check your phone screen time and it might make you think about taking the extra time for yourself. Nothing I’ve mentioned is revolutionary, it’s something we can all do and you’ll see how quickly you begin ditching your phone to eke out the best of life right in front of your eyes, or sometimes, behind the front cover of that novel you’ve got sitting on your bedside table. n

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CONSCIOUS DECELERATION Words: ALEXANDRA DELF

fter a testing year, wellness in every form is at the top of the collective agenda. Staying fit and active through lockdowns plus balancing working from home, family and personal life has challenged even the most adept multi-tasker. Working from home, for those who have been able to, has blurred those lines potentially permanently. Despite the flexibility, the ‘always on’ nature of working and living in the same space, has seen many of us struggle with mental health, anxiety and how to factor in wellness between back-to-back zoom calls. The pressure of adding a HIIT class or 10k run to the to-do list is potentially another step down the pathway to burnout and could have the opposite effect of increasing stress, rather than promoting the feel-good endorphins expected. Conscious deceleration, a new buzz word in wellness, advises stepping away from the anxiety inducing mentality of constant achievement and focusing on a more holistic long-term wellness and lifestyle strategy. For the type-A personalities, this doesn’t necessarily mean cutting back

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on high intensity workouts, but understanding how these can be complemented with low intensity options to support mental and physical wellness long term. From breathwork to yoga, meditation and mindfulness or even forest bathing and leaf peeping, conscious deceleration can be tailored to the individual lifestyle. There are some incredible properties around the U.K to visit or take inspiration from.

WHERE TO DISCOVER CONSCIOUS DECELERATION Getting out into nature is a simple and effective way to kick start that deceleration. Consciously taking time to breathe in and be present in natural surroundings reduces blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension, and the production of stress hormones. Luckily in the UK we are surrounded by beautiful countryside and properties to relax in. Ellenborough Park has made it even more simple for guests to rewild themselves in the 90 acres surrounding the 15th century country estate or the idyllic surroundings of the Cotswolds by way of their Dubarry boot room. Complete with Dubarry wax jackets and wellington boots, with sizes for the whole family, no matter what the

weather, prepare to experience the incredible soothing effects of rolling English countryside. So, whether it’s a long muddy walk with your fourlegged friend or simply a bracing breath of fresh air, there’s no excuse not to head outside. On return, the Elemis Spa awaits should further relaxation be required. What represents embracing life in the slow lane more than a lazy summer day, meandering the waterways and embracing the riverside lifestyle? The Runnymedeon-Thames have launched a new series of summer experiences which can be enjoyed from the water, including stand-up-paddle boarding from a private mooring, to enjoy a leisurely float down river for approximately 2 miles through a protected nature reserve, after which a hot-tub overlooking the beautiful river views awaits. Being close to the water is shown to be psychologically restorative, leading to less stress and boosted positivity, with some researchers suggesting it could even be the key to happiness. In fact, just the sight and sound of water can prompt the release of neurochemicals in the body that promote wellness, increase blood flow to the brain and heart and induce relaxation.

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A luxurious property boasting a riverside location and a totally unique way to consciously decelerate is Monkey Island Estate in Bray. The privacy of the property means that you can wander the grounds in peace, taking in the medicinal plants and herbs which can be found growing throughout the property. They line the wildflower garden path which winds its way along the riverbank to the Floating Spa, a restored barge which offers a unique selection of treatments completely based on the water, created by YTL Hotels’ wellness experts. The Floating Massage is an usual treatment which combines the relief of deep-seated tension with the sensation of floating on water through specially designed aqua cushions, bringing the relaxing feel of the river into the experience. The room itself is awash with blue light, mimicking the gentle surrounding waters. The barge is moored to the banks and the treatment rooms and Remedy Bar, which is based on the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries’ barge which traded on the Thames in the 1700s, offers a bright and airy

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CONSCIOUS DECELERATION DOESN’T HAVE TO MEAN SPENDING MONEY... THE CALMING AND HEALING POWERS OF SWITCHING OFF CAN BE EFFECTIVE THROUGH SMALL EVERYDAY CHANGES sanctuary in which to retreat and relax. The treatments themselves take either from the healing energies of the water surrounding the spa or play on the history of the island. The floating massage taps into a gentle spa trend which has been gaining traction in recent years, with many spas offering floatation tanks or sensory deprivation chambers. This allows the body to totally relax without the distractions of the everyday world encroaching. In addition, the physical act of floating removes pressure from the spine and joints, helping to improve posture and reduce pain and inflammation. A great offset to a hectic lifestyle

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or intense workout, the act of floating also allows the mind to release and relax into a meditative state. Dormy House Hotel & Spa offers its very own state-of-the-art isopod floatation experience, with benefits including an increased sense of well-being and improved physiological functioning, thanks to the combination of deep mental and physical relaxation.

DIP YOUR TOE IN, FROM HOME

Taking a break and getting out of the normal routine is an effective way to reset mind and body, but conscious deceleration doesn’t have to mean spending money or taking time off work. The calming and healing powers of switching off can be more effective through small everyday changes in routine rather than sporadic longer breaks. If nature isn’t on the doorstep, the soothing impact of water and the beneficial effects can be felt through simply hearing it. Whether that includes listening to a waterfall or winding down to a meditation accompanied by waves, incorporating the sound of water is easy and effective. Finding calm through sound could also include explorations on sound therapies and binaural acoustics which are easily accessible online. They induce a Theta mind state which indicates deep relaxation. Something as simple as a daily shower can be transformational in many ways, whether that’s using

Ellenborough Park Monkey Island Estate

Ru"ymede on Thames

the time as a mental break and mini meditation or taking it one step further and using it as an opportunity to try cold immersion. Cold immersion has been brought into the spotlight by advocates such as Iceman Wim Hof. Wim Hof is a Dutch extreme athlete who earned the nickname "The Iceman" because of his ability to withstand extreme freezing temperatures. Using a combination of breathing techniques and cold therapy, the Wim Hof Method boasts a host of health benefits including increased energy, clarity, strengthened immune system and reduced stress levels. The technique takes a maximum of 10-15 minutes and includes a series of deep breathing exercises, followed by a cold shower. This daily practice is used by many to combat the impact of everyday stressors on body and mind and can complement any fitness or wellness regime simply and effectively. Establishing a daily practice of conscious deceleration can seem daunting and time consuming, but incorporating a consciously calming activity such as Wim Hof breathing within an existing schedule is an easy way, no matter how busy the day is. Conscious deceleration is a fluid concept that can be built into daily health and wellness as a more holistic long-term approach to health and wellness, helping to combat the negative stressors of a fast-paced and demanding lifestyle. From tech-based meditation solutions such as Calm or Headspace or making the most of a 5 minute window of time to listen to soothing soundscapes or try some breathing techniques, the beauty is that there are no pressures around when or how it should be done. If nothing else is possible, close your eyes, take one deep breath in and out, at least once a day and start from there.n n n n n n

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Ellenboroughpark.com ytlhotels.com runnymedehotel.com dormyhouse.co.uk wimhofmethod.com

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WELL RE-ENERGISE AT HELIOS

The pandemic has and will continue to shape how we travel. As we return to normality travellers are looking for longer breaks with a focus on wellness. Luxury fitness retreat, Helios is a wellness retreat like no other. With locations globally, you can choose from stunning destinations like Mykonos, The Maldives, Bali and Sardinia – each one offering a unique experience. Founder, Hugo Martini-Mensch has created more than a brand, he’s successfully created a community where you can connect and bond with like-minded people. It’s not all sweaty workouts - there’s wine tasting, quad biking, an opportunity to explore the local cuisine and culture as well as time to unwind and relax. n To see the full retreat timetable for 2021/22, visit helios-retreats.com

TIME TO TRY CBD? Our love of CBD based products is going nowhere, whether you are looking for a multivitamin or moisturiser there is a CBD product for you. With the benefits ranging from pain relief to managing anxiety and stress, more people are looking for the quickest, most effective way to get their CBD kick. The Ameo Entune CBD patches offer a unique way to consume the benefits of CBD without vaping, dosing or reapplying creams and lotions. Simply place the patch at or near the area of discomfort to quickly release full-spectrum hemp CBD with a sustained release up to 24 hours.

d ! g and

WHY YOU NEED TO BE VAGAL TONING

his year is all about destressing. After a year of craziness, people are looking for more ways to dial down their stress levels. I’m currently obsessed with biohacking and any kind of wellbeing shortcut that can help improve overall mental wellness, so when I heard about Sensate, a smart piece of tech designed to calm your fight-flightfreeze response and relax you, I was intrigued. Sensate is still relatively new to the wellness market but is already making waves and garnering a legion of fans including Davina McCall. This pebble-like gizmo is laid close to the sternum and uses sub-audible sound waves to stimulate the vagus nerve. What is the vagus nerve I hear you say? Vagus means ‘wandering’ in Latin and this nerve does just that. It starts in the brain stem and meanders close to your ears, before passing through the back of the throat, via the heart, lungs and diaphragm and then spreading out like octopus tentacles in the gut. This longoverlooked nerve is our stress response superhighway, and unsurprisingly, for most of us, it’s all snarled up. When the vagus nerve is activated, it puts the brakes on the stress response and just 10 minutes using this stress busting gadget tones the vagus nerve, lowering cortisol and helping you relax. For anyone looking to distract a busy

n Get your hands on the patches at Isagenix.com 42

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mind and switch off, this is the perfect addition to your wellness routine. I got to try out the product and while I did not use it daily, just a couple of times a week proved beneficial when it comes to relaxing and decompressing. It’s easy to use, simply select your soundscape, pop your eye mask on and place the pebble onto your chest bone. The combination of soothing music and the gentle vibration of Sensate gradually settles and calms the body and mind. You can choose your preferred session length, but I recommend doing at least

Hi, I’m Anji McGrandles the resident wellbeing expert here at House of Coco. Each issue I’ll be sharing with you the latest trends and news in wellness and answering your questions.

This Month I ’m Reading HAPPY NOT PERFECT BY POPPY JAMIE I first met Poppy Jamie at an event a few years ago and our shared interest in wellbeing has meant I have followed her journey on social media. Her debut book, Happy Not Perfect, captures Poppy’s story as a fashion designer, TV presenter and entrepreneur crippled with imposter syndrome and anxiety. After suffering from burnout, Poppy set about researching ways to boost her mental wellbeing and be happier, rather than striving for perfectionism. This book is not just a personal journey, it comes from an authentic place that most people will relate to and the best bit, there’s tips and techniques to help you.

20 minutes. Almost every time I use the device, I fall asleep after around 10 minutes, so I’m not surprised one of the biggest gains reported has been improved sleep. Discussing the benefits, founder and CEO, Stefan Chmelik says “Neurons that fire together, wire together and every time you use Sensate you are strengthening neural pathways. Repetition is key to accumulative behaviour and using it for 10 minutes every day for 40 days will improve resilience through vagal toning”.

Chmelik says, “Sensate is a proactive tool and regular use will trigger the relaxation response and lower the fight-or-flight stress responses in the autonomic nervous system”. Using Sensate during the pandemic helped me unwind after a challenging day of juggling home schooling and work. Delivering the same effects of a meditation session, this is much less effort and is easy to slip into your daily routine, which is why I’m a fan. n Order your Sensate at indiegogo.com

n Gua Sha facial treatments are loaded with benefits, from stimulating the immune system, improving toning and firmness and removing toxins from the skin. Hay’ou, the Gua Sha expert, has launched their new Clear Quartz Precision and Clear Quartz Compress tools. Known as the ‘master healer’, clear quartz crystal delivers the ultimate self-care experience. The restorative qualities of this superior crystal help calm the mind, making it an effective tool to unwind and relieve the day’s stress’. Powerful clear quartz also clears heat and encourages energy flow - a must have for glowing, healthy looking skin. Both tools have been crafted from premium, hand-made, certified crystal. n For more info on Gua Sha and the tools visit hayoumethod.com

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London’s Luxuries A STORYBOOK STAY

AT THE FRANKLIN

ucked away, yet in the heart of Knightsbridge, The Franklin London - Starhotels Collezione is a luxury stay at its finest. Chic, not cliche, decadent, not dowdy - the hotel offers quintessential Italian hospitality and combines the timelessness of a London townhouse with the romance of a Italian palazzo. Split across four classic early Victorian buildings, the hotel is just a short walk from Harrods and a plethora of worldclass museums. When guests spot the monogrammed ‘F’ flag along the pictureperfect street and walk through the grand doors, they feel instantly at home. This was certainly the case for me as I was greeted like an old friend and offered the best cup of coffee ever made whilst I checked in. Automatically relaxing, the ground floor lobby is rendered in patterned grey limestone and Carrara marble with views to espaliered pear trees in the tranquil gardens. After I apologised for being a few minutes late, the gracious staff explained that at The Franklin,

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guests were never late and the hotel was simply there to work around their watch. When one of my worst flaws (time keeping) was considered endearing and my bags were whisked up to a breathtaking Garden Suite streaming with light through full-height windows, I knew I had arrived in a fairytale. The Franklin has 35 beautiful rooms all designed by renowned New Zealand-born, British designer Anouska Hempel. Hempel took inspiration from her travels across the globe, expertly combining Eastern influences with echoes of Italy and Morocco, and the spirit of a glorious bygone era, to create an atmosphere that feels more like a private home than a five-star hotel. Each spectacular room offers a muted and neutral palette, mirrored furniture and elegant wrought-iron four-poster beds. Guests at The Franklin can enjoy the professionalism of a dedicated ‘guest experience team’, unforgettable bespoke tours and other high profile services. ‘Les Clefs d’Or’ concierge is available to suggest or arrange sightseeing itineraries or restaurants, in addition to 24-hour room service and a

personal shopper service. For the ultimate relaxation experience, the hotel offers an intimate hammam treatment room situated on the lower ground floor with treatments available on request. As a London stalwart hotel, it is no wonder The Franklin partnered with the Victoria and Albert Museum (just a mere eight minute walk away) to put on the afternoon tea of the century inspired by the exhibition, Alice: Curiouser and Curiouser. ‘Alice at The Franklin’ is decadent, fanciful and simply delicious. Camellia’s Tea House provides the tea selection, which includes blends created specifically for the boutique hotel. Highlights include the Brownie Hat with kataifi pastry, brownie sponge and soft pecan cream and the fennel cheesecake with melt-in-the-mouth grapefruit shortbread.

LYDIA MATTHEWS n Superior rooms at The Franklin London are priced from GBP 330 per room per night, including breakfast and VAT starhotelscollezione.com THE

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A magical staycation at the

GROVE

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How does one even begin to describe a stay at The Grove Hotel? Located amidst 300 acres of lush Hertfordshire countryside, The Grove is a retreat in a world of its own. HANNAH TAN-GILLIES and our intrepid doggy reporter #TeamCocopup check into a five-star resort like no other

rom the moment you enter The Grove, you are instantly enveloped in its magic. Driving down the road and you can already get a glimpse of the façade of the main building. The main house undoubtedly retains the elegance and history of its regal past. Formerly the home of the Earls of Clarendon, the main house was also a popular weekend spot for Queen Victoria and a string of British aristocrats. There are three lobbies and a seemingly infinite number of lounges at The Grove, each one offering its own distinctive take on contemporary countryside luxury. The interiors, designed by Martin Hulbert, are the embodiment of sophistication and panache; perfectly blending into the rich pastoral landscapes that surround it. Art is everywhere and is very much the essence of the hotel. Even in a seemingly blank corridor, you will see playful, leafy sculptures of rabbits with tennis rackets or golf clubs in hand, playing the wide array of sports on offer at The Grove. We stayed in one of the hotel’s dog-friendly Deluxe Rooms. which are generously spaced and with French doors opening out to a small terrace. The room was luxurious without being out-of-

reach and combined polished, elegant furnishings with touches of home. Charlie had his own dog bed and bowl and was delighted to receive his very own dog toy courtesy of The Grove too. If you can, we highly recommend enjoying your breakfast in-room on your semi-private terrace. It is such a joyful and relaxing way to wake up in the morning. Most of the maze-like hotel is dog-friendly, but the ultimate treat for pampered pooches is a walk around The Grove’s impeccably manicured grounds. The Formal Gardens are brimming with spring blooms, with modernist steel sculptures elevating the space. Charlie was desperate to have a swim in the ornamental canal (he did not), which was beautifully covered in lily pads, and home to a mother duck with her ducklings. The Walled Gardens are an equally enchanting place and offer plenty of fun activities for families and pooches alike. The gardens are dotted with oversized armchairs, a giant game of chess, and the wonderfully quaint Jemima’s Kitchen Garden, which grows plenty of the herbs and vegetables used across the hotel’s three excellent restaurants. There is also Ralph’s Beach, which is home to an artificial beach and an Olympic sized pool. While other hotels would usually not allow dogs

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SIMPLE FOOD DONE WELL IS ALWAYS A REVELATION. THERE ARE NO PRECOCIOUS FOAMS HERE, JUST GOOD, TRULY DELICIOUS FOOD

NEED TO KNOW n Nightly rates at The Grove start from £370 for a Classic Room, on a room-only basis.

n For more visit thegrove.co.uk or call 01923 296010

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poolside, Charlie was able to lounge and enjoy the sunshine in Ralph’s Beach too. So much so, it took everything in him to not jump in for a refreshing swim as well. The Grove has three award-winning restaurants, and we were lucky enough to dine in two of them. The Stables offers casual clubhouse classics with flair and offers incredible views of The Grove’s multi-award winning 18-hole golf course. We sampled the steak sandwich and burger which were superb, although the flatbreads were also a sight to behold and certainly conjured some food envy from neighbouring tables. The Glasshouse boasts an ‘Estate to Plate’ philosophy and it certainly shows in the quality of food on offer. Led by Executive Chef Maarten Geschwindt; the fine dining menu offers a creative reinterpretation of classic British fare with an

Asian twist, all made with (very) locally-sourced ingredients straight from Jemima’s Kitchen Garden. We especially enjoyed the grilled scallops with kasundi and coriander and the crispy duck salad with cashews. The Norfolk quail, tender yet overflowing with flavour, was a culinary revelation proving that simple food done well is always a revelation. There are no precocious foams here, just good, truly delicious food. Here at The Grove, you will find a magical place that is so far away from the daily stress of reality that it is almost impossible to leave. Incredible service, whimsical surroundings, and the ultimate in luxury hospitality right in the heart of Hertfordshire. A stay at The Grove is like a dream, one you certainly don’t want to wake up from. n

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C!y Guide

BED, BATH

d n o y e b and

Words: LAURA

BARTLETT

ne of the best things to come out of neverending travel restrictions was the unlimited opportunities we’ve had to explore our own backyard, which we’ve never done on this scale before (and yes, we feel guilty about it). When it comes to historical significance, Bath is on a global scale. Around 90 minutes by train west of Paddington Station is the quiet spa town, famous for its world class Roman ruins that have been the jewel in the crown since the times of Julius Caesar and Cleopatra. It’s mad to think you’re walking along the same streets as they did all those thousands of years ago. If you’re not a history buff, we’re pleased to inform you that Bath has kept up with the times, and is now home to some of the coolest hangout spots around, and the food and drink scene is up there with the best of them.

WHAT TO DO: n Roman Baths The Roman Baths have been the beating heart of the city for the past 2,000 years. Things are a bit different now (you probably wouldn’t want to go for a dip), but ogle at the remarkably restored remains of one of the most significant sites in ancient history - the Great Bath is still heated 50

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from the same natural springs all these years later. The full experience is a must - walk along the original Roman pavements and explore the ruins of the Temple of Minerva that once stood here to let it really sink in. n Royal Crescent Some say fine example of Georgian architecture, we say a beautiful Instaworthy backdrop. Just kidding! The Royal Crescent is Bath’s most stunning street, lined with 30 Grade I listed terraced townhouses that have been home to some of history’s most notable people. If you’ve ever watched any film with Keira Knightley you won’t struggle to recognise this place. n Stonehenge Less than an hour from the centre of Bath is without a doubt the oldest and most famous prehistoric monument in England, if not, the whole world. The

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C!y Guide unmistakable stone circles date back to 2500 BC but there are signs that this ground has been used for one activity or another for thousands of years before that. We recommend the visitor centre to immerse yourself in history, and get up close and personal with the stones (also, you’ll never get a good photo by hanging out of your car window on the A303). The Cotswolds n Bath sits on the south side of the Cotswolds, which stretch up to Stratford-upon-Avon in the north. It’s quintessential Britain down to every last thatched cottage and tea room, which come in abundance. Cirencester is the biggest town which is also steeped in Roman history, but if you’re looking for pretty villages check out Blockley and Bourton-on-the-Water. All you Gryffindors do not miss Lacock which you might recognise as the Potter’s home town, Godric’s Hollow.

WHERE TO EAT: n Pintxo de Bath Try saying that with a Northern accent! If you’ve ever explored Spain’s Basque Country you’ll be well versed in the

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tradition of eating pintxos and drinking sherry until you can’t move. Pintxos de Bath has taken inspiration from the likes of Bilbao and San Sebastian to create an authentic tapas experience. They’ve also saved you the job of finding some of the best sherry in the region to enjoy in their sunny garden. n Bar Breton From the genius minds behind Pintxos de Bath comes Bar Breton - a beautiful authentic French bar inspired by the dishes and drinks of Northern France. Any restaurant that proudly serves vol-au-vents is a winner in our books and Bar Breton are on a mission to do traditional French cuisine the justice it deserves. Do not miss the Kir Breton (a cocktail of crème de cassis and cider) which is the traditional drink you’re handed when you go for dinner at someone’s house in Brittany. n Plate If you’re down for something more local, check out Plate. The team here pride themselves on taking advantage of their West Country location, and produce from local farmers and fishermen, to create playful dishes made for sharing and socialising.

They’re also proud of being obsessed with cocktails, and the terrace is the perfect hangout spot for drinks with stunning views of Bath.

WHERE TO STAY:

The Bird is a 31-room hotel set in a former four storey striking Victorian mansion. It’s been given a complete overhaul in recent years and transformed into a stunning boutique hotel with an avian theme running throughout. It’s a perfectly situated place to call home during your stay in Bath, with the main sights around a ten minute walk away - although we can’t promise you’ll want to leave once you get there. The vibe of the hotel is quirky and a little mismatched, but at the same time everything works perfectly together, from every piece of funky artwork down to the last bold scatter cushion. Each room is lush and well thought through. Cosy rooms are a snug retreat after a long day of sightseeing and boozing in some of the trendy indie bars nearby, but with all the luxuries you need - rainfall showers, Nespresso machine, Dyson hairdryers. Each room has been given the same level of design attention as the hotel so expect chandeliers as standard and big, bright and colourful art pieces. Who needs the Roman Baths when you can literally have your own secluded spa on your own private terrace? That’s right, if you’re feeling flamboyant, we recommend the Feature Hot Tub Room, ideal for those more special weekends. Whichever decision you make, you can rest assured you’re in for a faultless stay. n n The Bird 4 Star Hotel in Bath thebirdbath.co.uk n Prices start from £645 for a 3-night stay n Great Western Railway trains to Bath depart regularly from London Paddington and take around 90 minutes, for further information and to book tickets visit gwr.com n For more information on visiting Bath go to visitbath.co.uk

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C!y Guide

A GIRLS’ TRIP TO

The coastal town of Southampton may not be on your radar for your next weekend getaway with the girls, but HANNAH TAN-GILLIES begs to differ. This laidback yet vibrant city has plenty to offer beyond its already fascinating maritime history

or a first-time Southampton visitor, I didn’t really know what to expect. Most of my British friends and colleagues have mentioned the ‘Titanic Museum’ and the fact that Southampton is a university town, but what I’ve come to discover is that it is so much more.

WHERE TO STAY n Moxy Southampton n moxy-hotels.marriott.com The easiest way to travel from London to Southampton is via the South Western Railway, which offers an easy, comfortable ride that can get you from Waterloo to Southampton City in just over an hour. Ideally located right beside the West Quay Shopping Centre and within walking distance to all the city’s main tourist attractions, the Moxy Hotel served as a perfect base for our weekend away in Southampton. Part of the Marriott Hotel Group, the Moxy offers all the comforts of a Marriott property yet with a vibrant tongue-in-cheek twist. The hotel’s modern interiors pay a stylish, industrial homage to Southampton’s maritime legacy. Check-in is done at the Bar, which is also the ideal spot for a pre-drink. Our bedroom comfortably slept three and featured all the amenities you could ever need. 54

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SOUTHAMPTON

WHERE TO DRINK n Ruby’s at The Grand n rubysatthegrand.co.uk n @allaboutrubys Just a 15 minute stroll away, through the Mayflower Park, past a looming MSC Cruise ship, and through a surprisingly tranquil park is Ruby’s at the Grand. Ruby’s is a whimsical underground cocktail bar that exudes retro cool. Quirky artwork adorns the walls, and the whimsy also extends to the cocktail menu which combines classic ingredients with unexpected flourishes. n The Spritz Social Southampton n west-quay.co.uk n @SpritzSouthampton Love an Aperol Spritz? We do too, which is why we thoroughly enjoyed our visit to The Spritz Social in Southampton. Picture large orange umbrellas, a distinctive beachy atmosphere, and plenty of good vibes. THE

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WHERE TO EAT n XOXO Southampton n @xoxo_brunchandcocktails n wearexoxo.co.uk Walking up to XOXO, you’d think you were about to enter a swanky nightclub in the heart of London. XOXO, owned by local restaurateur Tom Dyer, gives you the cool sounds and buzzy atmosphere of an all-day club, with a hearty menu that doesn’t fail to impress. The menu features plenty of seasonal fare, sourced from Southampton’s best local suppliers. Head Chef Natalie Allen has curated a brunch offering that packs both flavour and pizzazz with plenty of value too. We sampled the Potato Stack with Spring Onion, Huevos Rancheros, Roasted Peppers with Red Onion and Fanned Avocado Open Sandwich and topped it off with a Smoothie Bowl. Can brunch get any better than this? We think not. n Pam Pam Pizza & Cocktails n pampam.uk n @pampampizzacocktails Located on the bustling Oxford Street, Pam Pam Pizza & Cocktails combines two of our favourite things and does so with plenty of panache. Another Tom Dyer establishment, Pam Pam offers the same atmosphere as XOXO, albeit with an elevated lounge aesthetic. We sampled the vegan Mushroom and Truffle Pizza, Braised Pig Cheeks, and Chickpea Crackers which are all as delicious as they sound. Paired with a delicious bottle of red from ‘The Guv’Nor’ and we can’t think of a better place to spend the evening in Southampton. n Ottoman Kitchen n ottoman-kitchen.co.uk n @ottomankitchensouthampton Ottoman Kitchen is ideal for a post-night out meal. This traditional Turkish restaurant offers cuisine that doesn’t scrimp on the servings. We sampled the Ottoman Mix Grill, which combined all the restaurant’s best-selling charcoal grill classics. Outside, there is live music too – perfect for dining al fresco. 56

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WHAT TO DO n Paddleboarding at Active Nation n activenation.org.uk Active Nation, located at the Woodmill Activity Centre, is an outdoor activity centre that’s just a quick 15-minute drive away from the city. Here you can do everything from an outdoor obstacle course, canoe water polo, and paddle boarding. We tried the ‘Ready to SUP’ two-hour paddle boarding session, surrounded by lush trees and plenty of wildlife, which added just the right amount of excitement to our Southampton experience. My two days in Southampton have revealed a new face to this seemingly familiar town, one where a hyper-modern shopping centre can flank centuries-old roman fortifications, or a buzzy restaurant street can sit just minutes away from a tranquil tree-lined park. A city offering many juxtapositions, Southampton — to me — is a destination that still offers plenty of surprises and one that warrants a second look for your late summer travel plans.

NEED TO KNOW:

n Sea City Museum n seacitymuseum.co.uk Our party was composed of two die-hard Titanic fans (the film not the tragedy) and so the Sea City Museum was one of the undeniable highlights of our visit. The museum tells the story of the people of Southampton and their fascinating links with the Titanic. It also offers plenty of interactive elements, miniatures, and immersive spaces that really draw you into the history of one of the most famous ships of all time. n Let Godfrey Collyer take you on a tour n seesouthampton.co.uk Godfrey Collyer, tour guide, maritime savant, and all-around good guy, is the best person to take you on a tour around Southampton. Godfrey offers a wealth of knowledge and will tell you tales about James Cameron’s Titanic inspirations, basement wine cellars and even Jane Austen’s dislike of the fish market. In fact, he knows so much about Southampton’s history, he even wrote a book about it.

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n Hannah’s girls’ weekend to Southampton was organised by Visit Southampton. To organise your own Southampton itinerary, check out visitsouthampton. co.uk n Hannah travelled to Southampton with South Western Railway, which offers quick and direct services from London Waterloo. n For more information, visit southwestern railway.com

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The Highlands

OU R JOU R N E Y HEADSPACE. RARELY FOUND INDOORS. HUMBLE BEGINNINGS Pugata was founded by a love of luxury and developed by a small team of jewellery enthusiasts. It has grown to embody the perfect mix of eclectic and modern design, classic heirlooms and outstanding craftsmanship.

GO FIND YOUR #OUTSPIRATION HOW IT’S MADE We take pride and pleasure in taking our clients on the journey that each of our pieces of jewellery takes, from the initial conception to the finished article. Throughout the process, each step is carefully considered and approved with our clients before we produce the final piece. We are fortunate enough to own our production facilities which means we have complete control over all the jewellery we produce. We don’t compromise on quality, and we take great care to make sure each item is perfect before delivery. CRAFTSMANSHIP We take immense pride in the quality of the pieces that we produce. The entire team has been recruited because of their outstanding work in the jewellery industry, which means at each stage of development you’re in the very best hands. With over 30 years’ experience, our team of CAD designers, gem experts and goldsmiths will ensure that only the highest standards are good enough, irrespective of price. At every stage of development, it is assessed and signed off, ensuring that each piece is perfect before it reaches you.

A BOU T US ES TA B L I S H E D 2015 I N - H O U S E D ES I G N B R I T I S H M A N U FAC T U R I N G SOLD ONLINE AND BOUTIQUE R E TA I L S TO R ES B ES P O K E J E W E L L E RY S O L D WO R L DW I D E E T H I C A L LY S O U R C E D G E M S TO N ES AND DIA MONDS

Todd Crag, Ambleside, UK

C R E AT E YOU R DR E A M R I NG C H O O S E YO U R D I A M O N D

C H O O S E YO U R R I N G S T Y L E

WA I T 4 - 6 W E E K S

I DO

F R EQU E N T LY A SK ED QU E ST IONS WHAT MAKES PUGATA JEWELLERY SPECIAL? We have a wonderful history of artisan workers who have passed on their skills for generations, the ability and knowledge that our team has between them sets us apart from the crowd and we make sure that we use the very best

OU R SE RV IC E S

materials and the very best makers to create the perfect pieces.

SHOWROOM

WHEN BUYING A DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RING, HOW DO I DETERMINE A BUDGET? Here at Pugata we aim to cater for all budgets. Our experts

BESPOKE DESIGN

will be happy to help on getting the best for the money you have to spend, ensuring you get the perfect piece for you.

RESIZING, REPAIRS & ALTERATIONS WHICH “C” IS THE MOST IMPORTANT?

ENGRAVING

When buying a Diamond all the C’s are important, however one might be more important to you personally. Some people prefer a bigger stone and aren’t as bothered about

CLEANING & SERVICING

the colour or clarity, where others prefer a completely pure Diamond. Please refer to our Diamond Buying Guide on

VALUATION

our website https://www.pugata.com/ for more information and to help you decide which is best for you.

W H AT PEOPL E SAY “The service from Zak was second to none! Very professional and the final piece was beautiful. Couldn’t have asked for a better jeweller to order our rings from. Highly highly recommended!” A Hafiji

REWILDING

“I had an old ring remodelled and re designed by the team at Pugata and they did a magnificent job from start to finish. They are creative, extremely personable very efficient and produce quality goods. I highly recommend them.” Melanie Sykes

THE HIGHLANDS

“Amazing service from start to finish from Zak and the team at Pugata! Explained the whole process perfectly at the consultation and was very patient as we chose our rings. Once the orders were placed, we received regular updates and pictures. The final rings were beautiful, and they were presented and packaged very elegantly. We are very happy with our purchases, and I would highly recommend Pugata!.” Images: Sakina Bhoola

Words & LAUREL WALDRON

WILD WEST WALES:

Wildlife adventures on Skomer Island Words & Images:

BRONWYN TOWNSEND

Thousands of whirring wings, webbed feet scuttling across gritty soil and rapid entrances into burrows peppered along craggy cliffs. Tangerine beaks act as beacons on the rocky shoreline, suits of black and white like well-dressed doormen with a jolly waddle as they roll from side to side. The song of gulls crooning in the distance broken only by the waves pounding into volcanic rock. This is summer on Skomer Island

M NEED TO KNOW n Open mid-April to September

n £40 for boat and landing fee

n welshwildlife.org/ skomer-day-trip

ost of us look further afield for wildlife expeditions. From the African savannah to the Amazonian jungle, we tend to overlook the wilds that are right on our doorstep. Skomer is a haven for bird lovers or simply those in search of some solace in the bustle of everyday life. Surrounded by the comics of the avian world, you’ll be hard pressed to find somewhere that feels so remote just a short distance from one of the UK’s most stunning coastlines. Home to a colony of some 6,000 Atlantic puffins, Skomer Island is a sanctuary for seabirds and one of the most important sites for breeding in the UK. Just a 15-minute boat ride from the Pembrokeshire coastline at Martin’s Haven, you’ll find yourself caught among a colourful affair as carpets of bluebells and red campion flourish across the tree-less isle. Puffins aren’t the only residents on Skomer though, it’s home to a variety of seafaring life from manx shearwaters, razorbills and gannets to dolphins, porpoises and grey seals. On land you’ll be surrounded by dozens of rabbits as they bounce joyfully along sunkissed meadows, while the lucky few will catch a glimpse of voles tip-toeing in the undergrowth. Only the lucky few call Skomer home on a permanent basis, and none of them are

human. Much like the thousands of feathered visitors that spend the warmer months on land, raising the next generation of young before heading back out to spend the next seven months at sea, Skomer’s human guests only spend a short time here. Volunteers and researchers arrive mid-spring for the annual count, while most just spend a few hours pounding the trails that crisscross the grassy interior. Structures are limited to a stone farmhouse and a research base overlooking the small harbour where you dock on arrival. Everything else is left to nature. The preservation of this incredibly valuable playground for birdlife has seen colonies recover in tremendous numbers over recent years, a result of the conservation efforts carried out on Skomer. At just 2 miles long, the reasons this island has played such a vital role are not immediately obvious. It’s only once you are ashore and discover the honeycomb network of burrows that life below the surface reveals itself. Skomer Island feels like one of Britain’s best-kept secrets. Its dizzying displays of birds dipping and diving into the sparkling sea, its swiss cheese-like appearance caused by the homing of manx shearwaters, puffins and rabbits, and one of the most vibrant wildflower displays in the springtime. You needn’t look too far to discover one of the finest wildlife destinations. n THE

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HOW ONE (SLIGHTLY) RUSTY VAN HAS CHANGED THE WAY I TRAVEL With change comes opportunity, and our girl, TILLY-JAYNE KIDMAN has just embarked on a new project featuring a 1990’s campervan. Adventure now starts at home. Read how a (slightly) rusty van has transformed her vision of travel for now and beyond

hen the pandemic hit and travel ground to a halt, I felt lost. My life had been ‘all go’ for many months, juggling a steady stream of freelance work with jetting off to a new destination on an almost monthly basis. Known for being ‘the busy one’, I was caught up in the buzz of my own life but all of a sudden, I felt as redundant as the planes on the Heathrow tarmac. I was no longer chucking a bikini into my suitcase and catching planes like buses, no, I was now watching back-to-back episodes of Schitt’s Creek and ordering a new pair of sweatpants. What I didn’t realise at this point (I think I’d just reached season three) was that I would soon be changing more than just my travel habits. Like most, I thought this would be a temporary glitch in my busy life, that before long I’d be preparing to dash off to the airport and having an almighty meltdown when my passport was not in the safe place that I’d definitely left it. As time passed, it became apparent that this would not be the case, life

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was changing and it was slowing down. Travel began to feel like a distant dream, an old life. I reminisced over old photos, scrolling for hours pining over memories of a former life. People watching in Cape Cod, pretending to understand baseball in Boston, road-tripping around the East coast of Canada. If only past me knew how good she had it! Never one to dwell, I began to explore the idea of an alternative form of travel. Slow travel, local travel. I’ll put my hands up and (rather ashamedly) admit that travel to me meant exploring destinations outside of the UK. Sure, I’d ticked off a few of the popular UK hotspots - the Lake District has always been a favourite and I’d been to the coast a few times, but I’d never really sunk my teeth into the country I’d grown up in. Favouring bargain Ryanair flights to Europe over a weekend in Norfolk… But when a flight to Copenhagen was less than the cost of dinner, it’s easy to see how we got swept up in the rush of bagging great deals and packing our bags. Not so great for the planet. With international travel off the cards for the foreseeable, I began to toy with the idea of van life - a lifestyle

that I’d been growing gradually more obsessed with. I followed van lifers on Instagram and on YouTube, admiring their travels and life on the road. They all seemed so happy and carefree, and I wanted a slice of that freedom. One thing I’ve discovered recently is that yes, holidays and trips are great, but actually it’s freedom that I value the most. Whether that’s here in the UK or on a sandy beach in Ibiza. This relentless craving for freedom led me down the van life road, and that’s when everything changed. I spent hours researching vans. Would I buy a campervan or attempt a self-build conversion? Well, I’m not too handy with plumbing or electrics so maybe that won’t work. Ok, maybe I should finance a new van so that it’s reliable. THAT’S how much they cost? Ok, maybe not. I went back and forth,

until one fateful day, on my governmentapproved daily walk I bumped into a rather retro-looking Totoya HiAce with a ‘for sale’ sign in the window. I hadn’t felt such a rush of excitement in months, it was surely meant to be. I’d researched Japanese vans and the general consensus was that they’re pretty reliable, so with that in mind I scribbled down the number on the back of a receipt and as soon as I returned home, I was on the phone and arranging a viewing. I will say that by this point, I had already decided this was my van. I’m not sure there was anything that could have put me off, once I get something in my head, it’s happening. And that’s how Elvis came about. My new pride and joy. I viewed him for approximately 45 seconds before thrusting the cash into the man’s hand.

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FROM TICKING OFF THE BEST BEACHES IN NORFOLK, TO GAZING AT THE STAGGERING NATURAL BEAUTY OF DURDLE DOOR. ELVIS HAS GIVEN ME MORE THAN I COULD HAVE EVER IMAGINED...

He’s a 1994 Toyota HiAce import with just 69,000 miles on the clock. He’s been well-cared for with lots of life and adventures left in his old soul even if he is a bit rusty around the edges. In all honesty, I used to think caravans were predominantly for old people, but here we are. I’m even a member of the Camping and Caravan Club! Who even is she? My plans for Elvis are modest. Thanks to the already built-in bed and kitchen set-up, I’m quite lucky in the fact the hard work has already been completed, but I am giving him a much-needed refresh. The van is very much stuck in the 1990’s, so I’ve been working to bring him into the 21st century. A great little project that’s within the realms of my DIY skillset (just about), the floor has been replaced, curtains and new cushion covers are underway and I’m planning to give the dull wooden furniture a fresh coat of white paint. It’s the perfect base for all of my UK adventures, and we’ve got Cornwall, Wales, the New Forest and the Peak District lined up for the summer. Does he go above 50mph? No. Does he travel well uphill? Don’t even

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talk to me about it. What he does do, though, is get me there, it just takes a little patience. The van life trend might be an Instagram phenomenon, but it has opened my eyes up to slower, more sustainable travel. The word sustainability gets thrown around an awful lot, to the point I think it’s lost meaning and impact to a certain degree. I’ve always felt a sense of guilt when I step on a plane, persuading myself that off-setting my carbon footprint alleviates any wrongdoing but knowing deep down that this is just a drop in the ocean. Will I ever get on a plane ever again? Yes, of course, because I do believe travel is important and that we can be responsible, but the van has allowed me to explore slow travel, and even better, local travel. Exploring in a manner that’s better for the earth feels good, lowering my impact where I can, from reducing my air miles right down to my reusable flask, single-use plastic-free van and plantbased diet. I’ve experienced more of the United Kingdom in the past six months than I have in my entire lifetime. Elvis is

taking me down roads I’d never have travelled before, introducing me to new communities of van lifers, and the greatest gift of all? Freedom. My Netflix account is wondering where the hell I am, because instead my days off are now jam packed with adventure. From ticking off the best beaches in Norfolk, to gazing at the staggering natural beauty of Durdle Door. Elvis has given me more than I could have ever imagined, and proven that even in the darkest of situations, there’s always opportunity if you seek it. My future of travel looks different to what I could have possibly imagined in early 2020. Yes, I miss those balmy summer evenings on holiday, getting lost in bustling street markets and discovering delicious local cuisine. Those days will be back, I’m sure. For now, though, I’m happy to be living life with my little van. International travel is somewhat of a luxury and I will savour every last drop as trips become fewer and more meaningful. Perhaps one day soon I can hit the road in Europe and discover the South of France, but for now, I’m more than happy to settle for the Norfolk coast. n

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The Highlands

REWILDING THE HIGHLANDS Words & Images: LAUREL WALDRON

The Highlands After a year which has forced us like never before to consider just how our actions affect the world around us, LAUREL WALDRON visits the Highlands of Scotland to discover the audacious mission of one philanthropist who’s determined to restore this region to the wilderness it once was

he crisp air is thick with the sweet scent of pine as the crash of rutting antlers echoes across the glen. As twilight begins its sweeping descent, the hair on the back of my neck stands to attention as I catch the unmistakable sound of wolves howling in the distance. While this may not quite be the reality of the Scottish highlands just yet, thanks to the vision and philanthropy of conservationist Paul Lister (above) and his altruistic plans for rewilding the region, it could well be the case for a future generation. To the untrained eye the highland hills and glens of Alladale Wilderness Reserve are a thing of beauty but, as Reserve Manager Innes MacNeil points out, when you realise how these vistas would have looked thousands - if not mere hundreds - of years ago before

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being systematically destroyed by man, you realise that quite the opposite is true. Just 1% of the original forest remains today, but the team at Alladale is determined to change that. Alladale’s 100 square kilometres sit in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, 90 minutes north-west of Inverness. Encompassing rugged mountains, forests, rivers and lochs, its rewilding project has been much publicised - not always favourably - since Lister arrived in 2003, but spend mere minutes with this visionary character and you realise there’s method in his apparent madness. “We’re not trying to turn back the clock here; what we are doing is improving the place from 2003 when Paul took over and leaving something much better; it’s as simple as that” says MacNeil during a 4×4 tour of just a slither of this 13 mile long reserve. “This isn’t about Paul Lister and the

team at Alladale, this is something much bigger than that.” With 920,00 trees planted already across over 600 hectare as part of their reforestation initiatives, their mission is well underway. Native species including birch, rowan and elder have been reintroduced across the reserve along with the Scots pine, while trees such as hawthorn and hazel give much-needed food sources to native wildlife. The aim is to have a mixture of dense forest and open spaces to encourage species such as black grouse and capercaillie. All this while trying to safeguard the forest to speed up the recovery of the landscape and provide a seed bank for wider natural regeneration. The results though, of course, are at the behest of nature. The Scots pine, in particular, is a painfully slow grower and with this year’s pitifully short spring, it’s going to take a few decades to see real change in the landscape. Releasing wolves into Scotland may seem insane, but once upon time they roamed freely, a natural predator to deer. Without them, deer numbers soar if left uncontrolled and their continual browsing drastically alters the forest, hindering regrowth and often destroying the landscape beyond repair. While the return of wolves to the area may still be on the horizon and would undoubtedly need to be heavily controlled, when faced with the facts it doesn’t seem quite so far-fetched. For now though, the team are satisfied to focus their attention on other indigenous species increasingly under threat. Pine Martens have been spotted on the reserve thanks to their trap cameras, along with badgers, mountain hares, red squirrels and water voles - one of the UK’s most endangered species - as well as bird life including black grouse, ptarmigan and the majestic golden eagle. Alladale is also running a successful Scottish wildcat breeding programme, another critically vulnerable native species. With a litter of four kittens making 2021 its most successful year yet, the ultimate hope is to one day release the cats back into the wild. A visit to this reserve really is a nature-lover’s paradise.

ALLADALE IS ALSO RUNNING A SCOTTISH WILDCAT BREEDING PROGRAMME. 2021 IS THEIR MOST SUCCESSFUL YEAR YET...

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The Highlands Lister set up The European Nature Trust (TENT) in 2000 to pursue European conservation causes and help to restore some of the wild landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains in Romania and the Highlands of Scotland, with a view to expanding across Europe. TENT is focused on conservation, restoration and regeneration, but also the promotion of ecotourism to help the world better understand and appreciate nature. This message seems potent give the recent experience, in 2020, of evidence showing nature beginning to heal itself; from the waters of Venice’s lagoons sparkling

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crystal clear for the first time in decades, to wild boar seen roaming the streets of Italian towns, unfettered by human interaction; nature had started to reclaim what it once had. Guests at the reserve can choose to stay in the main Alladale Lodge, resplendent with sweeping views of rugged hills and Caledonian pine forests, cosy home comforts and a fascinating collection of nature books, or one of three other accommodations. Cottages Ghillie’s Rest and Eagle’s Crag sit next to the Alladale River, with meals provided by the reserve’s resident chef, Natasha. Meals include ingredients fresh from the on-site

aquaponic farm - including the rainbow trout - and venison from their own deer herds; the only meat and fish you will find on the menu. For those seeking more solitude however, Deanich Lodge is one of the most remote buildings in Scotland, sensitively restored and truly off grid, though there is a landline for emergencies. It’s a haven of seclusion framed by majestic scenery. This place is just about as far away from civilisation as you can get and if you’re lucky you might even catch a glimpse of one of the golden eagles that nest nearby. With endless hiking trails, mountain biking, wild swimming, foraging and fly fishing, activities can be arranged, but if you’re anything like me you might also be content to make the most of the stunning surroundings and just be. Lister’s vision is a bold one, but this is one man determined to leave our planet in a better place than he found it. His unbridled passion for his cause is infectious and with the passionate team at Alladale beside him on his journey, he can only succeed. n

NEED TO KNOW n alladale.com n theeuropeannaturetrust.com n Alladale Wilderness reserve will be hosting a series of events and retreats throughout 2021/2022 including wildlife watching and unique culinary experiences with Francis Mallmann and Raymond Blanc. Find more information at alldale.com/events-and-retreats n Deanich Lodge from £2,750 pw, self-catering (based on 8 sharing) n Ghillie’s Rest (2 bed, 2 adults) £2,950 pw, including all meals n Eagle’s Crag (3 bed, 4 adults) £4,950 pw, including all meals n Alladale Lodge - contact for quote based on individual requirements.

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VAN LIFE

the ultimate escape with Camper T r ibe

he appeal of hopping in a van and driving far, far away has surely come to all of us over the last year. Intrigued with the freedom of the open road and none of the fuss of booking hotels, Team Coco partnered with CAMPER TRIBE in one of their brand-new Bear VW Transporters for a month-long adventure. Did our team get Van Life fever? Read on to find out!

THE NEW FOREST – LAUREL WALDRON While camping has never been my forte (with the one exception Glastonbury of course…) the thought of embracing Van Life and stepping outside my spa hotel comfort zone became more and more appealing as our travel options looked ever more limited earlier in the year.

With a May Bank Holiday weekend free and a new bike to play with, I was the first of the team to get their hands on our shiny new van and took flight to the New Forest. Just a couple of hours’ drive from London, feels like a world away; covering 220 square miles and with 26 miles of coastline and 235km of public footpaths, it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s perfect playground. With plenty of walks and no end to the mile upon mile of brilliant cycle trails, the hiking boots were packed, the bikes strapped on to the back and we were set for a weekend of adventure. Nestled between Sway and the quaint village of Brockenhurst, Setthorns Campsite provided a backto-basics base for our weekend of activity. A frosty morning trail run provided ample breathtaking views, definitely worth the early wakeup call and Brockenhurst stables provided

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Camper Tr ibe a morning hack through the woods, emerging into a meadow of wild New Forest ponies. Considering the unseasonably Baltic conditions, we were glad to have had the foresight to pack a double duvet rather than just a sleeping bag, meaning our van became a cosy cocoon after dark as we indulged in a bottle of wine and a movie after cooking up a mini feast on the handy stovetop. Marvelling at just how

meticulously planned everything was from the Tardis-like cupboards to the in-room lighting - I have to say I was converted. I’m already planning my next van adventure!

KENT COAST – LAUREN KATE HUGHES

There is something truly liberating about a home-on-wheels. The ability to park up and get straight to exploring, with no need for lengthy check-ins or even unpacking, appealed to the

CAMPERVAN KITCHENETTE ESSENTIALS

n Falcon Enamelware,

n Melitta AromaBoy Filter

n Monoware mugs,

falconenamelware.com You can’t get more British camping than Falcon Enamelware. Originally created in the 1920s in Birmingham, these are timeless design pieces that will last. You can easily squeeze a serving tray, a couple of deep plates and tumblers into your Camper Tribe kitchenette area and dine in style.

Coffee Machine, melitta.co.uk The retro 2-cup coffee machine has been around since the late 70s. Its dinky size makes it ideal for including in your camper and to wake you up on those misty mornings.

monoware.com Everyone needs a favourite mug and these are ours. When the shower block is just that bit too far away and you need some caffeinated courage, pour your hot beverage of choice into one of these beautifully crafted mugs, and the world is a better place!

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adventurer in me. Sure, you may sacrifice an on-suite, but sleeping under the stars is great compensation (plus, I found most campsites had pretty swish bathroom facilities, as well as a mini-kitchen where you can grab that all-important morning cup of something comforting). The Van Life found me, rather than the other way around, when this opportunity arose with Camper Tribe, easily the UK’s best camper hire company, to explore what the UK has to offer as a staycation destination. Having not driven for almost a decade, it’s safe to say I was nervous to get behind the wheel, but despite the vans being hefty in size, they’re a dream to drive with a rear camera and huge mirrors making navigating spatial awareness much less daunting. For me, my mini-break destination had to be coastal, enjoying the clear blue skies of Kent in early summer. Hawk Place Campsite is just along the coast from busier beachfront destinations of Margate and Broadstairs, nestled in a farm setting next to cornfields and stables, just a stone’s throw away from the idyllic Minnis Bay. A two-hour walk along the cliff edge will take you to bustling Margate, where there are plenty of pubs, restaurants and shops. But if you’d rather enjoy the quiet life for a little while, this peaceful spot is just two hour’s drive from south London and provides those all-important stunning coastal views. After a day’s exploring, the van becomes a peaceful retreat where you can snuggle down with a wine in hand. But if you’re not quite ready to drift off, zipping down the roof to reveal a sky full of stars is my recommended way to end the evening on a high.

THERE IS SOMETHING TRULY LIBERATING ABOUT A HOME-ON WHEELS. THE ABILITY TO PARK UP AND GET STRAIGHT TO EXPLORING, WITH NO NEED FOR LENGTHY CHECK-INS OR EVEN UNPACKING, APPEALED TO THE ADVENTURER IN ME...

FURTHER ALONG THE KENT COAST – GEORGINA WILSON-POWELL

It’s been 20 years or more since I last slept in a VW campervan and while some aspects of it have thankfully improved, ultimately the joy of sleeping next to beaches and in fields remains the same. We headed off on a cold, wet weekend to St Margaret’s Bay, near Dover to sleep at the closest point to our France, dreaming of baguettes and

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Camper Tr ibe

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Included in your Camper Tribe hire... n 4 Berth n Waeco 47L Fridge n SMEV 2 burner hob + sink n Grill n Underslung gas and water tank nPropex heater – requiring LPG gas n Front elevating roof including scenic canvas n Kitchen with multiple storage lockers n Strip lighting under worktop and top locker n All round privacy tinted glass including sliding windows n Carpeted roof bed and mattress n 112 RIB bed in matching trim and drawer system with doors underneath n 2 x 240V sockets n 2 x USB ports n 1 x 12V socket n Factory fitted battery and split charger n Table and safe storage solution n Solar panels n Carbon Monoxide detector n Van shades to habitation windows n Fiamma Awning n Gas Certified n Delivery areas covered: Aberdeenshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Surrey, West London

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bagatelle, while our phones switched to European time. The white cliffs of France disappeared as the rain set in, but we were toasty warm with proper British cuppas and a cosy night’s sleep on the rock n’ roll bed. After a leisurely morning of listening to the rain beat on the pop-up top, while we steamed up the plastic windows with more tea, it was onto the arty lanes of Folkestone and a wild, windy walk along our white cliffs along the National Trust path before stopping for a much needed al fresco afternoon tea at the Victorian lighthouse. Back in our van, we zipped (the new automatic VWs aren’t short of oomph) over to LillyRoos campsite near Deal for a couple of nights nearer home (and yet feeling in full holiday mood). The camper is quick to re-assemble into living and bedspace after a couple of tries, and with the awning up and a fire pit in full swing, we ordered Indian takeaway to the camper, treated ourselves to the wine we’d had in the handy proper fridge all weekend and sat back, smug in the knowledge that we’d nailed the holiday at home vibes. For now, who needs six-hour immigration queues?

(EDITOR’S NOTE : Georgina and her partner actually purchased a camper van after this experience so

there’s one more over to the Van Life!)

STILL IN KENT, WE CAN’T GET ENOUGH – ANNA WILLATT Jason, Statham…the Transporter, as we named the van, came to us to wrap up the Camper Tribe X Team Coco adventure. Just before being dropped in Ramsgate, where we live, the van had been living it up with my parents in Wiltshire, in atmospherically soggy fields. As my Mum remarked they were the ‘intrepid oldies’ while the rest of the team preferred simpler escapes from London. Or, like us, just down the road! The desire to be close to home came from not knowing quite how we’d take to Van Life. I’m definitely a bit of a princess and don’t camp so I was delighted to be given a whistle-stop tour of the van’s smart design by Allan at Camper Tribe – a man who knows everything there is to know about camper vans. All the mod cons and clever design meant we’d have plenty to keep us cosy. Jason arrived in a spell of beautiful early summer sunshine – that quickly descended into lashing rain and wind – bringing the ‘family holiday’ vibe. We opted to head out early the next morning to our first stop near Sandwich, pulling away from our parking spot, in awe at how smooth the van was to drive. Quickly gaining some perspective of the size of the van down a muddy single-

track road to the farm camping ground, a 35-minute drive from home had never felt so adventurous. A local bus adventure to the pub was followed by an evening of hunkering down in the van as a storm raged around us. But the next days promised sun so we brought the pop-up top down to combat the roaring wind noise, pulled out all our bedding from storage and got impressively cosy on the double bed with memory foam – already dreaming about when we could buy one. If the camper is a welcome refuge in adverse weather, when the sun decides to put in an appearance, it transforms into a palace. With the sun gleaming off the channel at Kingsdown Campground, I hopped up to the upper bed area for some scenic reading. The van can sleep 4, using this mezzanine-like space, though I feel you’d have to like them a whole lot! To celebrate our wedding anniversary, I’d packed the fridge with a Dishoom naan kit that we assembled easily using the small-but-perfectly-formed kitchenette. Setting out the table under the sun-bleached awning, panoramic view of the sea, with foraged flowers nestled amongst Falcon Enamelware, I realised that I could definitely get used to this life. n

NEED TO KNOW n Huge thanks to Camper Tribe, the UK’s most convenient VW camper van company. Born for wild adventures, all their vehicles are no older than 12 months old giving you peace of mind, with unlimited mileage for all UK bookings so you can adventure far and wide. All campers are automatic, making your adventures that little bit smoother and are delivered with a full tank of fuel so you can get on your way. n Team Coco borrowed a Bear Camper that sleeps up to 4 adults. Seasonal pricing from £105 a day, campers available all year round. n For full information on Camper Tribe, including clear pricing and van information, head to campertribe.co.uk or call 0808 503 4935

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What to wear

Who can resist the allure of the open road? With Camper Van adventures all the rage with freespirited travellers not wanting to be pinned down by hotel rooms (or set plans), we’ve curated some of the most versatile, and compact fashion pieces so you can drive off into the sunset in style. Compiled by

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HANNAH TAN-GILLIES

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1. Tortoise Shell Sunglasses by Calvin Klein available at calvinklein.co.uk 2. Khaki Jacket by Meraki at Amazon Fashion available at amazon.co.uk/fashion 3. Tie Dye Pascal Boots by Dr. Martens available at drmartens.com 4. Clubmaster Watch by Briston available at wolfandbadger.com 5. Black Gigi Quilt Stud Bag by Carvela available at carvela.com 6. Frey Liberty Dress by Fresha London available at freshalondon.com 7. Organic Cotton Jumper by Calvin Klein available at calvinklein.co.uk

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9 8. Light Wash Dad Jeans by Calvin Klein available at calvinklein.co.uk 9. Yellow Courtney Sandals by Vagabond available at vagabond.com 10. Revive Green Necklace by Tiana Jewel available at tianajewel.com 11. Insulated Water Bottle by Craghoppers available at craghoppers.com 12. Stardust Otter + Pop Symmetry Series Case by Popsockets available at popsockets.co.uk 13. Marina Blue Floral Boyfriend Shirt by KITRI available at kitristudio.com 14. Black and Yellow Flowing Skirt by The Kooples available at thekooples.com 15. Black Jetson Sock Trainers available by Carvela at available at carvela.com THE

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THE ALCHEMY

Words: PENNY

ith a climate that can leave you as confused as a Love Islander on The Chase, the UK has always felt just like home, but not away. To us in 2021, that is. Back in the 50’s and 60’s, staycations and trips to the seaside were in the throes of their heyday. We take it for granted now, but when paid holiday leave came into the workplace in 1938 it meant that holidays weren’t just for the rich. Hard working people could now take a well-needed break a couple of times a year. Thus, the UK staycation was born. Here, we look at how parts of the UK can rival the most sought after destinations in the world. Turning what you might wrongly see as the basic, into the precious.

YOU WANT TO ROAD TRIP CANADA

Did you know that Nova Scotia is Latin for ‘New Scotland’? There’s a reason why the Scots felt so at home in Canada. As well as the East, much of West Canada holds solid ties to

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LEE BROWN Scotland. In fact, there are hundreds of towns and cities named after those in the bonnie North. Take a road trip through the highlands and get the best of Canada, right here. We’ve got everything from the pine trails up the mountains, to the wide open rivers gushing with an icy fresh determination. Vast forests bowing and swooping across the landscape offer a dream drive from one beautiful spot to the next. We recommend wild camping from the lakes of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, up through to Ben Nevis for those wild mountain ranges, over to the Cairngorms for a real taste of freedom. Surrender to being as far away from everyday life as possible in Scotland. The wide open space is exhilarating. As for the thrill of spotting an animal or two in its natural habitat there are plenty of deer and stags knocking about. Unlike in Canada, you may not see bears in the wild, but there’s loads to discover at Highland Wildlife Park with very well looked after polar bears, tigers, bison, yaks, and more.

OF A UK STAY Loch Lomond

Lochan Uaine Cairngorms

NEED TO KNOW Wild Camping in Scotland is legal but be sensible. Check the area online first as Loch Lomond and The Trossachs do require a cheap camping pass. Use an app called Park4night to help find places to camp for free. VisitScotland is strongly encouraging wild campers to understand the best way to be responsible travellers while enjoying Scotland’s beautiful landscape. n For info visit outdooraccessscotland.scot

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IF IT’S AN ITALIAN AFFAIR YOU’RE AFTER… Hear us out, you don’t need to go any further than North Wales. Begin your stay over in the West in a little village called Portmeirion. This beautiful creation sits on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park, designed by architect Clough Williams-Ellis. This quaint and colourful attraction with its riviera inspired houses will leave you in shock and awe at every turn. It is whimsical, poetic, enclosed, and yet delightfully fiddly. All the while maintaining this ever-present and purposeful Italian vibe. Stay at the Portmeirion Hotel for a heated, outdoor pool with views overlooking Cardigan Bay, and order a prosecco or two to top it off. As it is just next door, if you’re an Italian mountains and lakes vacationer, don’t dismiss Snowdonia National Park. The mountains here go on for

miles, and where there’s a lake, there’s greenery. Yr Wyddfa, Snowdon, is a mighty 3,560 ft high and the national park covers the majority of North-West Wales and some of Mid-Wales. There are many resorts within the national park where you can book a luxury stay and get stuck into some lake and mountain activities. The newest addition, with a Club-Med style active holiday experience, is Adventure Parc Snowdonia and its brand new

Hilton Snowdonia Snowdonia

NORTH WALES

Portmeirion is ticketed at £14 per adult with special prices for various types of family tickets. n To book accommodation visit portmeirion.wales. n Adventure Parc Snowdonia costs around £475pn based on 2 people sharing, King Room with Sofa bed and Lagoon View Adventureparcsnowdonia.com

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NORFOLK

Bookings are open at Fritton Lake, with stays in the woodland retreats and farm cottages and boutique hotel accommodation at the Clubhouse. Rooms at the refreshed Clubhouse start from £140pn including a light breakfast, while a twonight break in a three-bed Farmhouse Cottage starts from £604. n Book at frittonlake.co.uk.

Fr!ton Lake WHAT YOU ARE SEARCHING FOR IS RIGHT HERE

Hopefully we’ve given you food for thought. Of course, no-one is asking you to stay away from Canada, Italy, and France. However, we’d like you to also try looking a little closer to home for what you desire. Scotland, Wales, and Norfolk may feel like such simple options for a holiday, but trust us, you’ll be blown away. As Paolo Coelho wrote in The Alchemist “The simple things are also the most extraordinary things, and only the wise can see them.”

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DREAMING OF DAYS BY THE POOL OF YOUR FRENCH CHATEAU? Fritton Lake on the Norfolk/ Suffolk border is surrounded by a thousand acres of thriving woodland and buzzing meadows. This private clubhouse gives us the feeling of a French bolt-hole in the country. Owned by Hugh Crossley, Lord Somerleyton, Fritton Lake has been in the family for generations but this one is different. Since 2017, the family and staff have been dedicated to restoring old farmland to a self-managed and sustainable wildland. Now, the meadows and forests are home to free-roaming deer, water buffalo, wild pigs, ponies, cows, and sheep. Whilst tennis, watersports, and yoga are all on the activity list, it’s the safari through the wildflower fields that make it. Spotting the animals living their best lives, re-engineering the fields, is a gracious treat. You’ll learn about how this ‘wildstock’ contributes to the eco-restoration of the land by grazing, manuring, and rooting. It’s the most humble lesson you never knew you needed. After a day of exploring, you can relax in the stylish floating sauna before jumping into the dark and enigmatic lake. You can spend the day here, but there’s so much to do that an overnight is a must. Boutique bedrooms in the 16th Century Clubhouse place you right in the heart of the action, whilst luxury cabins throughout the estate offer a more private getaway. To add to the truly special aspect of Fritton Lake and its rewilding, Chris Bartlett has now joined as head chef. Previously at The Fat Duck in Bray, here he can combine his passion for sustainable farming practices with creating delicious food. Chris, who gained a doctorate in organic chemistry has based his menu around: “seasonal dishes and family favourites made with produce foraged or reared from the Somerleyton Estate, grown in our own gardens or by East Anglia’s most passionate farmers”. Fritton Lake really is about the people. From those that greet you at the door, to Head Gardener and horticulturist Matthew. Everyone you meet will make your day and make you feel special, leaving you wanting to stay.

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STAFFORDSHIRE:

An Insider’s Guide

Despite marrying striking countryside, industrial relics and historical intrigue with idyllic charm, creative subcultures and tangles of canals, Staffordshire still soars far under the vast majority of radars. Not for our guest contributor HANNAH FOSTER-ROE though, who makes a compelling case for it becoming the next alternative Great British getaway

ometimes you have to leave a place to learn how to truly love it. There was a moment, in the restlessness of my youth, when I couldn’t wait to get out of Staffordshire; longing to swap the rural slowness of the remote village I grew up in for somewhere much bigger, grubbier and noisier. But after lengthy stints in both Birmingham and London, I found myself retreating home to roost – and now could not be more content with the surroundings I once took so thoughtlessly for granted. Eclipsed by Jane Austen’s beloved Derbyshire to the east and the tempting outdoor pursuits of Shropshire to the west, Staffordshire is perhaps better known for bull terriers, brewing and Branston Pickle than it is as a destination in its own right. But acres of crosshatched forests, stubbly moorlands and weddingcake country estates, coupled with a backstory implicating characters from Anglo-Saxon warriors to

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Scottish royals and authors to artisans are just a few of the surprising reasons that make me question why travellers frequently neglect this oft-forgotten fraction of the Midlands.

WHERE MERCIA MEETS MIDDLE EARTH Staffordshire has a rich and formative past, switching hands between the Romans, Saxons and Normans during its early days. In the small settlement of Wall, near Lichfield, explore an unearthed Roman staging post and social complex at Letocetum before visiting Tamworth – ancient capital of Mercia. Having relentlessly defended her kingdom from advancing Danes, a monument dedicated to the Lady Aethelflaed presides today over the site of Tamworth Castle. Fortresses such as Tamworth speckle the county, marking turbulent times and a tapestry of eras. Stafford Castle, built on the orders of William the Conqueror, is one of the eponymous town’s

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Ca!ock Chase

STAFFORD CASTLE, BUILT ON THE ORDERS OF WILLIAM THE CONQUEROR, IS ONE OF THE TOWN’S OLDEST-SURVIVING STRUCTURES AND HOSTS A SHAKESPEARE THEATRE FESTIVAL MOST SUMMERS oldest-surviving structures and hosts a Shakespeare theatre festival most summers beneath the ominous shadow of its crumbling keep. Just outside Burton-upon-Trent lie the ruins of Tutbury Castle, where Mary Queen of Scots is understood to have endured a period of her nineteen-year imprisonment. More recent history saw Staffordshire become the adopted address of JRR Tolkien, who was stationed here during the First World War and spent time recuperating and writing after the Battle of the Somme. Fans of his stories may wish to follow the Staffordshire Tolkien Trail, encompassing three circular routes that trace his local life and literary inspirations over Essex Bridge – a bridge where two rivers meet, like his fictional Tavrobel – through Shugborough Estate and Cannock Chase Forest.

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The Roaches, Peak District CALL OF THE WILD My fondest childhood memories revolve around Cannock Chase, which as a family we would drive through each weekend to visit my grandparents; either stopping off to stretch our legs and fill our bellies with ice-cream, or crawling carefully by in the car – in case a deer, or several, appeared announced from the understory. It is the UK’s smallest ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’, with hiking trails to suit all ages and abilities, as well as a ‘Go Ape’ aerial adventure centre. Green pockets of National Forest cover part of the county, too. The project began over 30 years ago in a bid to rewild land previously used for coal-mining and other industry. The establishment of the National Forest Way means long-distance walkers can traipse around 75 miles from the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas to Beacon Hill Country Park, near Woodhouse Eaves in Leicestershire. In the Staffordshire Moorlands, the Peak District’s southernmost tip spills over the Derbyshire border. As the brooding landscape of Blackshaw Moor rises into jagged outcrops, the Roaches segment of the Dark Peak emerges. The Roaches and its rock formations with fairytale names – The Winking Man, Hen Cloud, The Queen’s Chair, Lud’s Church – draw ramblers, scramblers and climbers from all corners of the country. Fun fact: this is where you’ll find Flash, the highest village in Britain. The Capability Brown-designed gardens of Trentham Estate are absolutely divine, but no visit to Trentham would be complete without an afternoon at the Monkey Forest, home to 140 endangered Barbary macaques who roam as freely as they would in their native habitat. Animal enthusiasts will also enjoy the numerous nature reserves cultivated by Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, which may not have their own monkey populations, but are known for skylarks, weasels and brown hares. THE

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THE QUAINT, CRAFTY & QUIRKY Having never lamented upon its landlocked position in the heart of England, Staffordshire chooses instead to celebrate the remarkable scenery and unique identity it does have, which can be linked significantly to an earthy heritage of agriculture, milling, mining and pottery-craft. The region’s canals are a lasting reminder of this, but are now equally famous for boating breaks and tours. Anyone wishing to sample life on the water could board a narrowboat with Black Prince, who specialise in both hires and short holidays, or try the Heritage Canoe Trail from Stoke-on-Trent to Froghall. Walking and cycling the towpaths are also a lovely way to experience the canals; my favourite stretch runs from Great Haywood Junction to Wolseley Bridge, which I like to combine with short detours to drink in the architecture and grounds of Shugborough Hall and to pick-myown strawberries at Canalside Farm when the season permits. Throughout the swathes of pretty countryside, quiet hamlets melt the heart with their book-swap telephone boxes, honesty shops peddling locally-farmed produce, thatched roofs, and untidy hedgerows bursting with foxgloves and cow parsley. Fields and meadows merge into market towns like Leek; all timberframed terraces, antique window displays, weathered brick and bunting. The county carries itself with an eccentricity that, if human, would be like a ditsy professor who wears their glasses on a beaded necklace. It possesses a creative, eclectic spirit which is fittingly summed up by the Victorian gardens at Biddulph Grange. Visitors here will pass under a canopy of well-travelled trees and plants to a Chinese pagoda on a jade lake, an Egyptian courtyard and a Tudor-English cottage – via a transcendent Himalayan glen. Another two of the county’s most curious features are joined by the

Biddulph Grange

Mow Cop

Great Hayw!d 92-mile Staffordshire Way, which starts at Mow Cop in the north and concludes in the south at Kinver Edge. Sometimes styled as Mow Cop Castle, it isn’t really a castle at all but a folly, originally used as an aristocratic summerhouse. Down at the other end of the scale, the rock houses of Kinver Edge were once the dwellings of hermits and cave people. Carved into the rust-coloured sandstone, some of these have now been restored and are open to the public. THE

CITIES OF CERAMICS & SPIRES There are only two cities in Staffordshire: Lichfield and Stokeon-Trent. Lichfield is the smaller and more obviously aesthetically-pleasing of the pair, famed for its medieval three-spired cathedral: the only one of its kind in the UK. The city also hosts the multi-disciplinary Lichfield Festival every year, and has its own Heritage Trail. Stoke-on-Trent, an urban amalgamation of six endearingly scruffy towns, has evolved so much PERSPECTIVES ISSUE

Staffordshire The Enma Bridgewater Factory

in my lifetime; transforming into a cultural hotspot with its sights set on becoming the City of Culture. It lost out to Coventry in 2017, but being the ancestral home of ceramics has always put Stoke on the map. There is no shortage of museums, galleries and factories that chart this artisanal history. Among the most popular are World of Wedgewood, The Potteries, Barewall Gallery and the Emma Bridgewater Factory, which runs its own decorating masterclasses. Something else synonymous with Stoke-on-Trent is the Staffordshire oatcake, a sort of dense crêpe that can be stuffed with anything from a full English to a few slices of cheese. It’s a divisive snack, either viewed as a tasty breakfast treat or a bit like a soggy flannel; there is no in-between. Regardless, they are a local treasure: there is even a ‘Stokie Oatcake’ gin, if you’re searching for a souvenir to perfectly summarise your trip to Staffordshire! n n For further information, visit: enjoystaffordshire.com.

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NEED TO KNOW EAT n The Orangery at the Moat House, Acton Trussell Serving afternoon teas, Sunday roasts, three-course dinners and gourmet tasting menus n moathouse.co.uk n Ye Olde Dun Cow, Colton A fuss-free friendly local priding itself on quality ingredients, cosy classics and killer puds! n yeoldeduncow.co.uk n The Boat Inn, Lichfield Bringing fine-dining to the cathedral city with three AA Rosettes and a place in the Michelin Guide 2021 n theboatinnlichfield.com

STAY n Secret Cloud House Holidays, Cauldon n Happy glampers will adore this fleet of luxury yurts; each with its own wood-burning stove and private hot-tub n secretcloudhouseholidays.co.uk n The Duncombe Arms, Ellastone Taking the “pub with rooms” concept and elevating it with a touch of English country magic n duncombearms.co.uk

Shugborough Hall

The Tawny, Consall One of the hottest hotel openings in the UK this year, this new ecoresort features boutique boathouse accommodation, outdoor baths and an enviable pool n thetawny.co.uk

PLAY n The New Vic Theatre, Newcastleunder-Lyme

n Moddershall Oaks, Stone A serene spa retreat offering an indulgent range of treatments and tailor-made packages n moddershalloaks.com

The continent’s first ever purposebuilt theatre-in-the-round

n Halfpenny Green Estate, Bobbington A vineyard, craft centre and epicurean paradise specialising in award-winning English wine

n newvictheatre.org.uk

n halfpennygreen.co.uk

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o t d e e n e w y h W

KEEP TALKING ABOUT WOMEN'S SAFETY On the evening of 3rd March 2021, a young woman named Sarah Everard went missing in London. We all know how the story ends. What followed was a collective howl from womankind, as LAUREN KATE HUGHES explores

nough is enough’ the signs read. Every so often a case comes along with the ability to spark a revolution. Sarah’s was such a case. Stories emerged thick and fast of women feeling threatened, put down, taken advantage of, abused. There was quite clearly a fundamental problem. But that was just the beginning of the national uproar. A week later, London student Patsy Stevenson unwittingly became the poster girl for the Clapham Common vigil that saw the Met Police break up crowds of women with force. A harrowing snapshot of Patsy being pinned to the ground was splashed across national newspapers in an event that quickly caught the world’s attention, not least because the Duchess of Cambridge attended the vigil to pay her respects. Then came the protests, organised by Sisters Uncut with thousands showing up outside Scotland Yard to show their support for the

cause. ‘Boys will be held accountable’ and ‘Educate your sons’ read the signs. The air was thick with animosity. The mood was volatile. It was moving. It felt revolutionary. It was all deeply, deeply sad. But after the dust settled and the headlines moved on, the noise around the topic quietened down. But the deeprooted issues remain. According to recent stats from the World Health Organisation, 1 in 3 women experience to physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. So what’s next in the fight against violence against women? We reached out to Adeleka Linton, a integrative therapist who works closely with Violence Against Women And Girls (VAWG), and Bronia Burlinska, who attended the Sisters Uncut protests in London, to get their perspectives on the case that shocked the nation and the narrative around it. Adeleka is an Integrative Therapist with a deep understanding and compassion of the trauma that this subject has on others and herself as a female.

She gave her perspective from a Black female, mother of a daughter and professional and does not intend to talk on behalf of all Black females and mothers of daughters. Adeleka acknowledged the pain that those close to Sarah must have felt during and after the time of her death due to the publicity it had. She also acknowledged that this could have been a positive start for their healing process in having nationwide support behind them. “The reaction to Sarah’s case was triggering for many women, especially because you had someone as big as Kate Middleton go to the park and show her condolences. It’s very unbalanced. It continues to create a ‘them against us’ mentality, a divide between races,” Adaleka told us. She spoke about an incident in June 2020, where two black women were killed in a London park. “The exposure just wasn’t the same as with the Sarah Everard case. There wasn’t the same uproar and support.” “It was a shock for me to see how quickly the world could come together to highlight the importance of such issues. We can make more noise about what women are experiencing and get voices heard. I saw the coverage of the protests on social media and we talked about them within team meetings. When something hits headline news all of a sudden it becomes highlighted more within organizations. Since the Black Lives Matter movement, and these protests, there have been more questions asked, and organisations are looking at staff differently and more humanely, so that is one thing to come out of these tragic events.” “What the Black Lives Matters movement has brought to the surface is that our voices as Black people often aren’t heard; this message was reinforced with this case. It’s taught within our community that you’ve got to be strong, you’ve got to get on with it. You cannot give up. There’s been a high increase of women within the Black community with mental health issues, from not being able to speak their truth, or not being listened to.” “People need to be honest with themselves and think, what is your reason for participating

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in marches? Why do you want to be involved with the protests? Do you really want to make a difference and see a change? If you honestly say yes, then why stop? Have you seen a change? What are you doing to continue? Are you continuing to find out what organisations supporting the cause are doing? Are you continuing to read about the impact of violence against women? It is important to maintain that fire. That desire to know more and to want change otherwise it can appear pointless” “Join organisations. Find out what else you can do. There need to be more protests, scheduled events at least once a month to keep the topic open, and for all the people who turned up for Sarah to keep turning up. Know why you’re doing what you’re doing with the movements that you’re part of. Think, OK, I’ve heard of this charity, I’m going to reach out and find out what I can do to keep things going. What we often do within society is that we wait until something happens and then we speak on it. Let’s not wait again.” Bronia Burlinska lives in south London close to where the events took place. After seeing a post on social media about the protests taking place outside Scotland Yard, she wanted to take action. “When I heard about what happened to Sarah Everard, I was shocked, upset and disappointed. It brought to the surface all of the things as a female that you do and don’t even think about, like taking the longer route home and having to book a taxi, rather than walking after dark,” Bronia told us, discussing how the case sent shockwaves through her friendship groups. “Sarah lived just near my London home. I’d walked that route many times; it felt so close. This opened up conversations with people like my brother and my dad and they had no idea I felt this way. I thought they were aware of the risks we face as women. It also opened up other conversations with my female friends, discussing how we’d all felt vulnerable at some point. Danger never feels that far away if you’re female.” “When I saw the protests being run by

Sisters Uncut in central London, I wanted to be there. I wanted to feel like I was doing my bit to support women and support our rights. It was the first opportunity that I had to express my anger and my frustration at the situation. I think it’s important that people come together to fight something that’s been going on for years and to honour everyone I know that’s experienced a form of violence or abuse. What happened was part of a much wider issue and it’s sad that it took such a harrowing event to get the attention of the media and the world. Seeing the threats to our rights to protest is worrying, as for me, it’s a way for me to support a cause I feel so strongly about and drive change. If they take away my right to protest, I feel like the government just doesn't want to know. And that’s incredibly disappointing. “It was a powerful experience, to see women come together to support the cause. There was a sense of relief knowing that so many people cared but also terrifying realisation that those are the lengths we need to go to to see a change. Things have died down and it’s disappointing. I can’t help worrying that in certain aspects of these movements there’s a level of bandwagonism, but also perhaps a lack of understanding on how to move forward. Now the protests are over, I’m thinking about how we continue to show up, support each other and be heard.” n

Left: Integrative therapist Adeleka Linton, right: Bronia Burlinska attended the Sisters Uncut protests.

n Sisters Uncut sistersuncut.org n Reclaim These Streets reclaimthesestreets.com n Action Aid (Women’s Rights) actionaid.org.uk/our-work/womens-rights n Refuge Against Domestic Violence refuge.org.uk

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LIFE IN PLASTIC IT’S FANTASTIC? With the average adult gobbling up 5g of plastics every week, how can we cut down on microplastic consumption? Words: DEBBY DONNELLY-ADDISON

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t does not matter if you are living in a sprawling house in the country or a crowded apartment in a bustling city, if you are eating, drinking, and breathing, you are consuming microplastics. In fact, the levels of plastic pollution in our oceans and atmosphere are now so high that it is estimated that we are each consuming 5g of microplastics per week. That is the size of a credit card. Every single week.

HOW DID THIS GET INTO MY FOOD?

It is quite evident that, as a species, we are pretty adept at destroying what precious resources we have been blessed with. We have made over 8 billion tonnes of plastics, half of that in the last 20 years alone. We have been conditioned to believe that plastic is a safe option: a sterile container for the caring mother or health-conscious meal prepper. With little advertising or encouragement, we have accepted

plastic as a normal part of food packaging, a safe little cloak to keep the bugs out. With less than 10% of all plastics being recycled, many end up in our oceans where it breaks down over time and ends up in our rivers, lakes, and food supply chain. Everything from apples to pork can contain microplastics thanks to the high amounts in our water and soil.

ARE MICROPLASTICS HARMFUL?

The short answer is, we do not know. Research into microplastic consumption is limited and slow, but what we know so far indicates that they cannot be too great for us in the long run. In terms of animal studies, we know that microplastics cause intestinal deformities in fish and other aquatic life. According to Linda Birnbaum, Ph. D and retired doctor of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the National Toxicology Program, “Nanoplastics can easily cross all kinds of barriers, whether it’s the blood-brain barrier or the placental barrier and get into our tissues”. Whilst scientists have yet to confirm what levels of plastics our bodies can tolerate and what sort of damage they can do, it is generally agreed that it is possible that their ingestion could further expose us to chemicals that have been linked to a variety of health problems such as reproductive issues, obesity, organ problems, and developmental delays in children.

our health in the long run. Whilst microplastics and additives are almost impossible to avoid completely, lowincome households and those relying on prepacked ready meals such as the vulnerable and time pressed, will undoubtedly be eating more microplastics than those with the time and means to prepare fresh meals three times a day. Sadly, as with many of our socio-economic problems, those at the lower end of the food chain are affected most, and little is being done to educate them otherwise.

IT’S NOT ALL DOOM AND GLOOM

It is early days in terms of scientific research into this area but, to date, no one has had “plastic consumption” listed on their death certificate. Although this does not mean we should not strive to make changes, the evidence so far indicates that we should be doing more to reduce our consumption overall. Let’s face it, this does not just apply to food: we should be limiting our use of singleuse plastics in every facet of our daily lives. Be it the production, use of precious resources, or the damage caused once discarded, plastics do not offer much to our lives other than convenience. We can all be doing more.

HOW CAN I CONSUME LESS PLASTIC? While it is practically impossible to eliminate plastic from modern life, there are several steps you can take right now to cut back and limit unnecessary extra exposure:

Drink tap water, rather than bottled. Water from plastic bottles contains twice as many microplastics than tap water. Use a refillable metal bottle for maximum environmental points.

Transfer ready meals or prepackaged food to a metal or glass container before heating. Some plastics can leach chemicals into food when exposed to heat. Use glass in the microwave, metal in the stove.

Buy and store food in glass, paper, or foil. Many smaller, independent stores allow you to buy food by weight, just take your own containers and fill ‘em up. Even the big boys, such as M&S and Waitrose, are introducing refill aisles, allowing you to stay plastic free and reduce your food waste too.

Choose fresh over processed, plastic wrapped food. The more processed or packaged the produce is, the higher the risk of microplastic nasties. Even the humble teabag can contain added plastic: if the edges are crimped, chances are it was sealed with a plastic solution. You can avoid this by using leaf tea or buying teabags that have been stapled or folded with string.

Do not assume that you cannot make a difference when you absolutely can! A study led by the University of Victoria in Canada advises: “removing single-use plastic from your life and supporting companies that are moving away from plastic packaging is going to have a non-trivial impact. The facts are simple. We are producing a lot of plastic and it is ending up in the ecosystems, which we are part of”. Visit markets to source goods locally, limit your own use of single use plastics, and shop like you are living in 1952. Do not buy more than you need, negating the use of plastic containers to store unused food. n

A VERY MODERN PROBLEM

The key issue is that plastics are pretty much unavoidable, yet we have no idea how they could impact our health in future. A burgeoning population calls for a rapid food supply chain, with an emphasis on keeping food cheap, quick, and easy to understand and consume. The rise in use of preservatives and chemical processing has far surpassed the studies into how these additives may affect our general health: it is quicker and cheaper to get another ready meal to market than to finance a study into how titanium dioxide microparticles, a common additive, could impact

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Different origin same world Direction and Styling: Franni Quevedo Porrino Photography: Henry Prada Writen by: Franni Quevedo Porrino

The use of the stripes print by women, started to be common when was combined with tiny flowers. An iconic moment was when the artist, Rose Adelaide Ducreux, portrayed herself using a dress with stripes. The vertical stripes, were a classic print in the Regency, in dresses and high waist coats.

Latin American tribes used to create different types of textures and prints. Peru and Guatemala are the countries best known for weaving meaningful shapes into clothing. For example: a snake means protection. This trouser, sold in a European country, is the evidence how South American culture is integrated in European fashion. Skirt: Mango Trouser: Second hand

Skirt: Mango Headband: Franni Quevedo Porrino

Since 1946 this type of squares were used by the people working in the field. Jacques Esterel, was the first designer to make the tablecloth an international trend. He broke the schemes creating a wedding dress with white and pink Vichy squares. What about flowers? The headband has a meaning in South American culture. The Day of the Dead is an important date for mexican people. It is believe that on those days, our deceased loved ones, travel back to earth. The Catrina is one of the main characters of this celebration, she wears a huge crown made with flowers which mean a guide for the souls coming back to earth.

Words: LAURA BARTLETT Images: CHRIS SPENCER-PAYNE

f you like drawing attention to yourself then you need to buy an Aston Martin DBX. A supercar that does everything that you would expect from a luxury SUV but expanding your ego is an added bonus. The DBX is quite subtle in comparison to a Lambo, not as inyour-face as a Bentley and nowhere near as mundane as a Porsche. But

Coco Cars:

ASTON MARTIN DBX 100

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what this car has that the others don’t is the Aston Martin magic we’ve come to expect. The price comes in around £160,000 which is enough to make your eyes water but you get a lot of bang for your buck. Having driven many supercars, it’s fair to say that Aston Martin has the edge. The car was founded on the principles of beauty, luxury and driving dynamics. Ready to go anywhere, it’s a car after our own heart as it’s powered by the spirit of adventure. Get behind the wheel

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...YOU GET A LOT OF BANG FOR YOUR BUCK. HAVING DRIVEN MANY SUPERCARS, IT’S FAIR TO SAY THAT ASTON MARTIN HAS THE EDGE

and be prepared for some serious power. If you’re wondering where to take the car to see it perform at its best, we’ve put together our top 3 locations in Yorkshire to put the pedal to the metal.

MASHAM

Just 20 minutes from the A1, Masham has all the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and views that go for days. You might spot the country’s largest and highest land sculpture, breathtaking views, swooping twists and more hills and bends than you can shake a stick at, but this is where you’ll see the Aston Martin DBX come to life. Masham is famous for its annual sheep fair and family-run breweries. The community is thriving with artists, authors and craftsmen so creativity is at its core. 102

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ROBIN HOOD’S BAY

So much more than a historic fishing village - the rugged Yorkshire coast will provide a stunning backdrop for the car. With the cutest cottages huddled closely to each other and the first view of the bay guaranteed to take your breath away, you will want to park the car up and explore the twisting, cobbled streets and hear all the many tall tales of sailors and fishermen.

RIBBLEHEAD VIADUCT

Most famously known for its appearance in Harry Potter, the Ribblehead Viaduct will give the Aston Martin the opportunity to really shine. Located just over the border from Cumbria into North Yorkshire, this is undoubtedly the most impressive structure on the Settle-Carlisle Railway. The Aston Martin DBX might be Aston Martin’s first SUV but we hope it won’t be the last. n THE

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LIFE ENDS, LOVE DOESN’T

Words:

LAURA BARTLETT

hen we set the theme for Vol 20 earlier this year, we opted for it to be all about perspective. Whether that be our change in perspective post-Covid, our change in perspective about the way we work or our change in perspective about the way we travel. What I didn’t expect was that, by the time it came around to share this edition with the world, my entire life would have flipped upside down so much that I

Me, my Dad and brother

was unable to gain any clear perspective about anything at all. I have always lived my life in perspective. Having overcome many failures over the years, from failed companies and bankruptcies to relationships that just didn’t work out, throughout all of this I always remained happy and positive because I knew that I was healthy and my family were too. Life to me has always been about creating memories with my family, without my parents I wouldn’t be half the person I am today and having my brother has always

When we were young (me on the left)

Getting ready for LA

been a blessing too. A tight unit, we always referred to ourselves as the four corners of a square, always holding each other together. As long as they were ok, I was happy. Earlier this year I told my family I wanted to embark on a new adventure and they backed me 100%. I had made a life changing decision to give up my home, sell everything that I owned and I booked a one way ticket to LA. People said I had inspired them by making such a brave decision and hundreds of people reached out to say how they admired my courage for not sleeping on my dreams, taking massive action and getting the ball rolling so quickly. Lots of people said that it had encouraged them to step outside of their comfort zone and follow their dreams to do similar things, with one couple being so fired up from me sharing my story, they booked a one way ticket to Spain to give their new baby a whole new life, something they had talked about for years but now they finally bit the bullet. The momentum was giving me serious adrenaline and I was literally high on life. Life was exciting, I was buzzing every day as the six week countdown from making my decision to leaving on my first class flight was ticking down. My plan was to fly into Beverly Hills, spend a few weeks finding my feet in the area and then look for a more long-term rental opportunity. I had already started making connections, saving restaurants and bars on Instagram that I would be visiting and planning my weekly shop at Erewhon. I started plotting my outfits, looking into my co-work space (hello Soho House West Hollywood) and thinking about

Above: The family together

how I would incorporate a hike into my morning routine. One thing I didn’t plan for was what happened next... Sadly, my amazing dad passed away after an unexpected two week battle in intensive care and it meant that life as I knew it, was no more. For the first few weeks after my dad passed away I was numb, I felt like I was trapped inside a nightmare that was never going to end and the early days passed in a haze. From the flowers turning up every few hours making the house look like a florists to the hundreds of cards we received with messages that confirmed what we already knew, that my dad was a special kind of guy, a spreader of joy and one that anyone would be lucky to meet. The memories shared by the people that passed by in their droves over the first couple of weeks provided us with enough comfort to get through those dark days in the beginning. When you lose someone you love so much it hurts and there are so many things that just don’t matter anymore. Like the amount of money you have in the bank, the car you drive, what people think of you, relationships that don’t bring you

joy, the Instagram algorithm, how much you weigh, what dress size you are and in those early days the future doesn’t matter much either. You literally have to live day by day because the thought of thinking any further than that means accepting that the person you lost really won’t be coming home and you’ll never get to see their smile again and thoughts like that just break your heart all over again. It’s so true when they say that the only thing we have is the current moment that we’re in. Even through your darkest days the reality that you have to live in the present, not get stuck in the past unless thinking of happy memories and not worrying about the future, is more prevalent than ever. I just hope you don’t wait for something so life changing to happen to you before you put your life in perspective. Let this be the sign you have been waiting for to start that business, book that ticket, tell that person you love them, try a new hobby, reconnect with yourself, quit that job that doesn’t set your soul on fire, try new foods, learn a new language, write that book and to make sure you find joy in the everyday. Because when your days come to an end, it’s only the memories and the experiences you shared with the people you loved that will matter. It’s still early days for me and I am getting my head around a new life without my wonderful Dad but what I know for sure is he was always by my side when he was here physically and that he will continue to be there spiritually. It proved to me what I always hoped and that is that life ends, but love doesn’t. n

THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS AT BORINGDON HALL

Words:

LAURA BARTLETT

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ust a couple of weeks after laying my amazing dad to rest, I felt that it was important to take my family away on a break to try and find happiness again. For me, travel has always been my go-to when I need a change in perspective and anytime I feel like I need to work out where I next want to go in life, getting a change of scenery always helps. We travelled to Boringdon Hall via train and the journey from the train station, via taxi, didn’t give the best first impression of Plymouth. We drove through derelict streets and wondered if we had in fact departed the train a few stops early because the

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tranquil scenes we had noticed on the website of our hotel seemed a million miles away from those that we were witnessing. However, as we continued through the city, we made our way up the many hills before seeing the holy grail that was Boringdon Hall. Proudly sitting on top of the hill with so much to brag about, we were instantly in awe of the building. From the original features throughout the hotel to the modern additional rooms adjoining, it was clear from the minute we arrived that this was going to be a memorable experience. Dubbed the ‘enchanted place on the hill’, Boringdon Hall is an Elizabethan manor house near Plymouth that dates

back to the 16th century and Queen Elizabeth herself has even stayed here. The juxtaposition between the old world decor and the £5 million pound sparkly spa is the real talk of the town here, with a pool, hydrotherapy pool, steam rooms, saunas and everything you would expect from the largest and most sophisticated spa in the whole of Devon. You could get lost for hours meandering around the old hallways of the hotel but the pièce de résistance at Boringdon Hall is the food. With their Mayflower restaurant providing a more laid back approach, it’s fine dining at Acleaf that will make you fall in love with food all over again every time you take a bite. With a personalised

fun experience, the chef really tries to get to know your personality through a series of questions in a little quiz before serving up some treats that are personalised to you throughout the meal. With a wine pairing that could well have been created by the gods, every course is as good as the last and the service is unparalleled. Boringdon Hall provided the perfect backdrop for our quest for happiness since losing my dad, allowing us the time out to relax, think about what life looks like moving forward. Most importantly it was a place where we learnt to smile again. n n boringdonhall.co.uk

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London’s Luxuries

ST ERMIN’S HOTEL

ith a lobby that will have you thinking you’re on the set of Titanic, from the second you arrive at St Ermin’s hotel in London you know that they are synonymous with luxury. Right in the heart of Westminster, you will feel like you have been transported a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of London. We were staying in one of their suites and it was everything you would expect from a four star establishment in the Capital. Concierges that know London like the back of their hand, staff that are so welcoming you feel like family and rooms that have every amenity that you won’t ever want to leave. There are thousands of hotels in

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London but what makes St Ermin’s special is the story of its intriguing past. You can take part in a spy quiz during your stay and hand it in to the staff with a secret password that makes you feel like you’re an extra in a James Bond movie. n www.sterminshotel.co.uk

WHAT WE ATE Fortnum and Mason A visit to Fortnum and Mason’s is a must when you are in London, whether it’s to gawp at their impressive cakes and treats or to do what we did, indulge in their world famous afternoon tea. From the minute you step out of the lift, you are transported to a whole new world. If Willy Wonka was to make a store for adults, this would be it. The Tea Salon has been many

things for over 314 years so it’s no surprise that Fortnum and Mason have everything running like a well oiled machine. The staff serve you so perfectly it’s like a melody is playing in their ear and everyone is moving to the beat, seamless, luxurious and without being even remotely pretentious, clearly their years of experience have led them to this moment. n Afternoon tea is priced at £62.50 per person, Find more out more atfortnumandmason.com

WHAT WE DID London Eye If you’re playing tourist in London and you don’t go on the Lastminute.com London Eye, are you really playing tourist? For the ultimate experience, we booked our own personal pod so that we could take in the views from every angle without having to share with strangers. For those scared of heights, like my Mum, you’ll be pleased with the privacy so that nobody has to see you quaking in your boots. A slow ride, it takes 30 minutes to make the full loop and it’s even better during sunset as the views across London are unlike anywhere else. n Advance purchase tickets are available from £24.50. For further ticket options and information please visit: www.londoneye.com

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VA R E N N A : REDEFINING ACTIVEWEAR

for the modern day woman

Varenna Founder Arantxa Gandini is redefining activewear for the modern day woman Words: HANNAH TAN-GILLIES

midst the crystal clear waters and rustic villas of Lake Como, a new activewear brand was born. Varenna — established in 2020 by Italian entrepreneur Arantxa Gandini — sits at the intersection of

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high-fashion and high-performance redefining activewear for the modern day woman. “Wellness, heart and beauty are at the heart of everything we do,” Arantxa says as she shares the inspirations and distinctive ‘Made-in-Italy’ ethos of her luxury activewear brand. According to Arantxa, Varenna was “born out of a desire to create clothing using conscious design methods and minimal waste.” In fact, it is the first and only activewear brand to be completely produced in Italy, utilising only high-quality recycled and biodegradable fabrics, reinforcing Varenna’s commitment to preserving

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the environment and contributing towards a greener future. Taking inspiration from the inimitable beauty of mother nature, Varenna offers a refined yet sophisticated sportswear pieces that give life to the magic that occurs when the natural world meets wise human hands. “Our pieces infuse the elegance and sophistication of a luxury fashion label, with the design, performance and versatility of an activewear brand,” adds Arantxa. “Our refined, minimalist aesthetic vision proves that sportswear has indeed become a new expression of contemporary elegance.” We sit down with Varenna Founder

Arantxa Gandini, who invites us to discover the world of Varenna, and learn about the tradition, innovation and passion that inform its lovingly designed and thoughtfully-made collections. HOC: What led you to embark on your journey to create a sustainably luxury activewear brand? Arantxa: I’ve always felt the need to feel beautiful and elegant, not just at the office or during special occasions, but also while training outdoors, at home, or in the gym. However, I couldn’t find any activewear brands that could satisfy this need. Because of this, I decided to combine my two biggest passions — sports and fashion — to develop a brand that could meet the elevated tastes and standards of women like myself. So, with my business partner, we founded Varenna with a clear vision in mind. This was to contribute to women’s happiness and to create an environment where wellness, elegance and beauty are at the heart of everything we do. Tell us more about Varenna’s design ethos. Where does the inspiration for your designs come from? Our story begins amidst the idyllic beauty of Lake Como, my childhood home. For me, Lake Como has always been the ultimate expression of Italian beauty and way of life. It is a truly magical place where the elegance of the villas seamlessly blend with the majesty of nature. The main inspiration for our collections comes from the natural world and all its forms. From the inimitable lights, patterns, colours and geometries of nature, our collections are born. We design collections that embody the graphic quality and stark symmetries of nature, giving life to the magic that occurs when the natural world meets wise human hands.

Tell us more about your brand vision and what sets you apart from other activewear brands in the market today? Our three main keywords are fashion, sustainable and ‘Made-in-Italy.’ Our mission is as ambitious as it is simple. We combine comfort (an essential feature in any sportswear brand) and glamour, which is something any successful fashion brand has in spades. Through our collections, we constantly redefine the concept of what an active wardrobe looks like. Our pieces infuse the elegance and sophistication of a luxury fashion label, with the design, performance and versatility of an activewear brand. Our refined, minimalist aesthetic vision proves that sportswear has indeed become a new expression of contemporary elegance.

WE BELIEVE THAT OFFERING OUR CLIENTS SUSTAINABLE CHOICES EVENTUALLY LEADS TO BETTER, MORE CONSCIOUS CONSUMER BEHAVIOURS, RESULTING IN A GREENER WORLD

How important is sustainability to Varenna’s ethos? In terms of sustainability, we’re always looking for low-impact raw materials

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and energy solutions. We believe that offering our clients sustainable choices eventually leads to better, more conscious consumer behaviours, resulting in a greener world. For this reason, we only work with a select network of suppliers in Northern Italy to minimise our carbon footprint. We also put our best efforts towards preventing waste and only using high-quality fabrics from recycled PET bottles and biodegradable sources. Varenna is the first luxury activewear brand that is completely ‘Made-in-Italy,’ which we hope

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reaffirms Italy’s position as a leader in the fashion world. Our entire supply chain is sustainable. This begins with sourcing the finest recycled Italian fabrics, to design and our very exacting cut and assembly process, which is as close as ‘madeto-measure’ as you can possibly get in activewear. For me, tradition, innovation and passion are three words that perfectly describe our collections, which are all lovingly designed, thoughtfully made and packaged in Italy. What is next for Varenna? What is your long-term vision for the brand? Our goal is to continue to design and produce elegant, mindfully-made clothes. We believe that brands today have to go beyond simply producing products, which is why we are developing a holistic brand universe that includes fashion, sports and wellbeing. Our vision is to transform our flagship boutiques into exclusive wellness spaces, where our luxury clientele can relax and take care of their mind and body. At our Varenna boutiques, they can participate in Yoga or Pilates classes, or indulge in some traditional Italian food, reimagined through a lens of wellness and elegance. Inclusivity is very important. So, we are developing a digital platform that will give everyone the chance to virtually visit some of the world’s most beautiful and exclusive destinations, from the comfort of their own living rooms. We are also working on some exciting partnerships that will enable us to organise Yoga retreats in some of the world’s most exclusive resorts. n For more information visit varennafashion.co.uk

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BEAUTY

bag

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KAT BURKI KB5™ CALMING GEL CLEANSER, £50, net-a-porter.com A skin balancing cleanser, infused with restorative KB5™ Complex, Vitamin A and lavender to improve elasticity, as well as rosehip and grapefruit seed oils for a hydrated, dewy glow. It includes a blend of over 92 invigorating ocean minerals, and is gentle and effective gel to help the skin’s protective barrier.

HAWAIIAN TROPIC PROTECTIVE DRY SPRAY OIL, £7, boots.com

Enriched with coconut and argan oil for soft skin, this spray offers the protection of a sun lotion with the skin-nourishing benefits of oil. This blissful formulation drenches the skin in protective moisture, with a touch-dry feel that has a non-greasy finish.

CARMEX CHERRY MOISTURISING LIP BALM (SPF15), £2.99,

WORDS: RACHEL McALLEY

superdrug.com Carmex lip balms have protection from the sun’s glare. SPF 15 helps to filter around 93% of UVB rays, which makes a huge difference to the amount of radiation reaching the skin. This lip balm soothes, smoothes, and softens the lip and helps to protect. 114

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Could summer be the most relaxed season for your beauty regimen? Let us showcase the latest products that you are definitely going to want in your skincare and cosmetics bags to give you the perfect sun kissed look

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Q+A 5HTP FACE & NECK CREAM, £12, qandaskin.com This cream blends griffonia seeds, known for firming and protecting, energising caffeine, soothing aloe Vera and a number of nourishing seed oils including grape, sunflower and jojoba. It boosts skin suppleness, elasticity and collagen production.

PEEP CLUB SOOTHING EYE BALM, £20, peepclub.co.uk A natural antibacterial rich in Vitamin E that soothes and nourishes the eye area, also protects lashes and promotes lash shine and growth. It can be used as a leave-on eyelid cleanser, to take off eye make-up, or as a soothing and protective balm.

MILLER HARRIS RÊVERIE DE BERGAMOTE EAU DE PARFUM, £115, millerharris.com This scent offers cheery notes of bergamot, complemented by energetic tangerine and delicate aromatic herbs and woods. It boasts a playful, sunny citrus accord, with earthy notes of patchouli, moss and vetiver, which sit on the skin beautifully.

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bag

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HAWAIIAN TROPIC PROTECTIVE DRY SPRAY OIL, £7, boots.com

45..

WORDS: RACHEL McALLEY

Inspired by the natural world, Varenna’s latest collection allows us to look at the environment in a new way providing a new perspective that operates CARMEX MOISTURISING in full respect of CHERRY natural resources promoting a circular economy based on LIP BALM (SPF15), £2.99, extending the life cycle of products which contribute to minimising waste. superdrug.com Carmex lip balms have to aesthetics, sustainability and traditional Surprising colors, attention protection from the sun’s craftsmanship of the Made in Italy gives a touch ofMILLER “dolce toBERGAMOTE the new HARRIS vita” RÊVERIE DE EAU DE PARFUM, glare. SPF 15 helps to £115, millerharris.com collection. Regardless ofof UVB the location, no matter if it’s Lake Como or an filter around 93% This scent offers cheery notes of bergamot, rays, which makes urban park, whether youa huge are practicing yoga session, pilates or fitness complemented by energetic tangerine and difference to the amount Varenna garments aim to offffer the best technical and aesthetic delicate aromatic herbsexperience and woods. It boasts a of radiation reaching the playful, sunny citrus accord, with earthy notes of possible by configuring a healthy lifestyle whose luxury part lies in the love skin. This lip balm soothes, patchouli, moss and vetiver, which sit on the smoothes, softens the and appreciation ofandsmall everyday pleasures. skin beautifully. lip and helps to protect.

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year thIe started istening to lmy N

SKIN Words: LAUREN KATE HUGHES

avigating which skincare products to invest in can be tricky business, with so many new ingredients to contend with, not to mention the constant switch up on advice to our routines. Campaigns sell us the dream of instant boosters and results-driven formulas; it’s easy to get sucked in on the promise of a quick fix. Ageing is the enemy and youth, the highest commodity. But when it comes to complex active ingredients - your hyaluronic acid, retinol, glycolics and other acids - can we really be confident of what we’re putting on our skin? Yes, these dermatologist-approved

ingredients are powerful, they get results. But a one-size-fits-all approach just doesn’t cut it when it comes to skincare. Our routines should be as unique as we are; a lesson I learned last year after realising the products I was using to treat my skin were actually causing flare-ups. I managed to reach my late 20s before realising I suffered with rosacea, despite the telltale signs of blotchy skin and flushed cheeks being prevalent any time stress hit, or I enjoyed a few glasses of wine. It was only when diving deeper into researching skincare ingredients that a dermatologist was able to diagnose the issue. While I was using heavy oils nightly to nourish my skin, oil-based

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HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT SKINCARE ROUTINE FOR YOU n Consult a dermatologist A dermatologist can help you identify your skincare type and any skin issues. You can read up on dermatology and find out how to find a dermatologist near you on the British Association of Dermatologists website (bad. org.uk). n Do some research and expand your skincare glossary Certain ingredients can really benefit different skin types. For example, hyaluronic acid is a nifty little molecule that can hold up to twice its weight in water, so is super hydrating for dry skin, while comedogenic formulas, while often hydrating, can irritate sensitive skin. n Set aside time for your skin A quick wipe of a face cloth and slather of any old moisturiser just won’t do. Instead, make a meal out of your skincare routine. Light a candle, indulge in a few moments of facial massage and relax. This may not be practical every day, but on the days you do spend a little more time on your routine, your skin will thank you for it. n Set in place a trial period for new products Your skin is a complex organ and will need time to adjust to new ingredients. Like a food diary, a skincare journal, where you jot down how your skin feels morning and night over the space of a trial period, will help you get a clearer view of how your skin is reacting to new products.

products can actually aggravate sensitive skin. Since switching to water-based creams, my skin has reacted with gratitude. A tailored approach worked wonders for me. While rosacea is an extremely common skin condition, it's also one of the trickiest to treat, as the root cause isn’t fully understood. Rosacea has been linked to both stress and poor gut health; two conditions that are also said to exacerbate each other. I sense a pattern emerging. Evidence is continually mounting that our physical and mental wellbeing are quite clearly linked, and when it comes to the villain in this story, stress is the most menacing of them all. But, more on that later. For me, my enlightenment via dermatology was a fast track to a new skincare routine, stripping out expensive oils—resisting their promises of the ultimate nourishment—in favour of water-based 118

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BRANDS THAT TAKE A HOLISTIC VIEW TO SKINCARE Disciple Founded by psychotherapist Charlotte Ferguson, Disciple aims to help stressed skin. Each product is designed to not only help the surface of the skin to heal, but also help with internal stress. Products are cruelty-free and vegan, as well as incorporating adaptogens and pre-biotics into the products. A real game changer in the skincare world. Gym For Your Skin “At GFYS, we champion strength on the inside and out”, says founder Helen Ritchie, right. “I believe happy people look their best and I believe this confidence comes through strength, even when things seem to be going wrong. I think our industry needs to stamp out the ‘scrub it away’ approach to treating skin. Using harsh products to blast spots out of the stratosphere leads only to one thing and that is more concerns. Is there any wonder skin problems are on the rise? Skin doesn’t work like that. Scrubbing away at it causes problems. We need to be working at strengthening the skin barrier with nourishing products and a routine with ingredients that work.” Green People

products. “Stick with gentle, water-based products and products, which are non-comedogenic. Ensure you wear a non-comedogenic SPF,” Dr Ejikeme of Adonia Medical Clinic - and the dermatologist who helped me understand my skin - told me. “You could speak to your healthcare professional or skin expert about adding in professional ingredients such as azelaic acid to reduce redness and, when needed, prescription options are available for more inflamed skin. But start off with simple formulas.”

THE LINK BETWEEN OUR STRESS AND OUR SKIN

It’s no secret that stressed skin can reflect our mental wellbeing - and the healthcare industry is taking note. Psychodermatology is a growing field in treating stress-related skin issues. Charlotte Ferguson, founder of skincare brand Disciple, worked as a psychotherapist for seven years before

Green People support a fully organic lifestyle, with natural and organic beauty products that have earned the brand a loyal following of skincare fans. They offer everything from skincare to body treatments, with a highly-acclaimed range of mineral-based SPF products. Living Sea Therapy You can guess what the star ingredients are here. Living Sea Therapy is an offshoot of The Cornish Seaweed Company, with the nutrient-dense hero ingredient featuring in both brands’ line-ups. Founders Caro and Tim worked with a number of official bodies like Natural England and The Food Standards Agency to come up with a code of practice for responsibly harvesting seaweed, with sustainability at the forefront of the brands’ ethics.

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founding the brand. Her research showed that one in three of patients who had skin conditions also had a mental health condition. “I noticed in my practice I was working mainly with women experiencing anxiety, depression, low mood, trauma and phobias. If they had a pre-existing skin condition like acne, psoriasis or eczema, it was exacerbated when they were going through extremely tough times,’ Charlotte said. “Cortisol makes your sebum really thick, which blocks pores and causes acne. We use prebiotics because when your cortisol encourages bad bacteria to form on the surface of the skin, prebiotics help get rid of it.” And that’s not the only nasty effect cortisol brings to our complexions. Lubna Khan-Salim, skin doctor and founder of medical beauty and wellness clinic, timetobloom.uk told us, “Cortisol impedes your body from producing your skin's natural moisturiser hyaluronic acid and worsens inflammatory conditions such rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis; showing up as dry flaky skin. To worsen things still, high cortisol levels also have the power to accelerate ageing in the form of lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation issues.” With hectic schedules, global uncertainty and damning news reports, it’s no wonder many of us are operating in a permanently stressed state. Could a more tailored and dedicated approach to skincare be an answer? By soothing our skin, can we soothe our stressed souls?

SKINCARE IS THE ULTIMATE SELF-CARE

Humans like structure; we’re creatures of habit and as much as we love to explore and try new things, a certain degree of routine offers comfort and grounding. Research in a study published by The Lancet Psychiatry found that people who have less consistent routines were more likely to suffer from low moods, and in some instances more serious mental health issues. “Looking after your skin is the ultimate act of self-care. Making time for the daily ritual of moisturising is so important; massaging your favourite products into your skin helps you feel connected to your body,” Margaret Dabbs, founder of the eponymous brand, told us. She also stresses that we shouldn’t feel guilty about it. “Women are so giving, and in the

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EVIDENCE IS CONTINUALLY MOUNTING THAT OUR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELLBEING ARE QUITE CLEARLY LINKED, AND... STRESS IS THE MOST MENACING OF THEM ALL... UK in particular we seem to have guilt about looking after ourselves. It’s about being kind to ourselves.” Creating a ritual within our daily lives, whether that means a ten-step skincare routine, half an hour’s reading before bed, or walking outside every morning, is an act of self-love. It sends out a message that your wellbeing is important, creating a moment of alone-time that’s sacred. “Time and time again it has been proven that having a ritual and consistency is so good for our mental health and our sense of wellbeing. I'm a firm believer in having a routine and a ritual when it comes to skincare,” Lubna reiterates. And enhancing your skincare routine with different scents and tools can elevate it further. “The scent of a product or oil can evoke a sense of calm or memory and the touch of the skin can be soothing,” she continued. n

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around the world

in plates

PARIS

Inspired by my Parisienne jaunts and time spent studying pastry in the city that epitomises baking perfection, these adaptable recipes are perfect for both the beginner and accomplished baker alike. Fire up the oven, pop your apron on, and you will feel as though you’re nibbling macarons outside a bohemian café on a Paris side street in no time. Words & Images: DEBBY DONNELLY-ADDISON

"Not a French recipe per se, I wanted to incorporate those creamy, velvet vanilla flavours I’ve experienced in the city of lights and transpose them into something a little easier for the home baker. Yes, it’s kitsch, it’s a little cheesy, but it’s utterly wonderful and never fails to raise a smile."

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EIFFEL TOWER TART Serves: 8-10 Prep time: 15 mins (plus 1 hour chill) Bake time: 0

INGREDIENTS: Cheesecake base: n 250g digestive biscuits, crushed n 50g caster sugar n 60g unsalted butter, melted Filling: n 360g cream cheese n 150g double cream n 10g icing sugar n 50g caster sugar n 1tsp vanilla extract n Dab of blue food colouring Decoration: n 100g royal icing n Gold food colouring n Edible flower petals (rose or dianthus would be perfect)

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Break up the biscuits and blitz in a blender or food processor. Stir in the caster sugar. Pour the melted butter into the biscuit crumbs. Press the crumbs into the base and sides of a 20cm round loose based tart tin. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

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Whip together the cream cheese and caster sugar until well combined. Set aside. Whip the double cream and icing sugar until peaks form. Fold the double cream into the cream cheese mixture before stirring in the vanilla and blue food colouring. Be careful not to add too much food colouring in one go, a little at a time is best. Transfer the cheesecake filling to the biscuit base. Refrigerate for one hour. If you cannot find royal icing in store, whisk one egg white until thick and frothy. Fold in a few spoons of icing sugar, continuing until the icing is thick and pipeable. Transfer the icing to a piping bag fitted with a size 0 or 1 nozzle. If you don’t have any nozzles, simply snip a small hole in the end of the bag. Carefully pipe the Eiffel Tower outline over the top of the cheesecake. If you don’t have a steady hand, I find it helps to squeeze from about 3cm above the nozzle. Do not worry if your tower looks a bit wobbly: the gold colouring hides a multitude of sins. You can also correct any wobbly lines by nudging the icing with a pin or tip of a knife. Use the remaining icing to pipe some clouds around the tower. Paint the Eiffel Tower decoration with a little gold food colouring. Scatter edible flower petals around the base. Keep the cheesecake refrigerated until serving. Enjoy within 48 hours.

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"Calling these “basic” may be a little misleading, but you can use this base recipe for a multitude of flavours. Jams, extracts, ganache, flavoured icing sugars, you can use this recipe for numerous colours and flavours. Some steps may seem a little finickity, but macaronage is an art that requires precision and patience. The delicious results are more than worth the effort."

BASIC MACARONS Yield: 35 (approx.) Prep time: 35 minutes Bake time: 12 minutes

INGREDIENTS: Macaron shells: Almond paste: n 100g ground almonds n 100g icing sugar n 34g egg whites n Food colouring Meringue: n 100g caster sugar n 25g water n 34g egg whites Filling: n 125g whole milk n 1 small egg n 30g caster sugar n 10g cornflour n 1 vanilla pod n 15g butter at room temperature

To make the almond paste, sift the ground almonds into a bowl, then sift a second time to ensure the powder is ultrafine in texture. You will reach a point where you will be left with some gravelly residue which will need to be worked through the sieve using a spatula, although do try not to rub the almonds too vigorously as the heat produced can toast the almonds

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slightly, affecting the flavour profile. Sieve the icing sugar into the almonds and add the 34g egg whites along with any food colouring. Mix to a paste and set aside. For the meringue, add the sugar and water to a saucepan and start to heat. In the meantime, add the other 34g egg whites to a mixer and start to whisk until soft peaks have formed. Heat the sugar and water until they reach 118C and immediately remove from the hob. Slowly pour the syrup in the soft egg whites whilst the mixer is still running on it’s lowest setting. Ideally, you want to run the syrup down the side of the bowl so it hits the cool metal before reaching the egg whites. Increase the speed and whisk until the bottom of the bowl's exterior is cool and the meringue is firm and shiny.

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Macaron shells and filling: Take one third of the meringue mix and dollop on top of the almond paste. Gently fold the mixture in by scraping the spatula under half of the mix, lifting it up and then flopping in down on top of the remainder. Rotate the bowl a few degrees each time you do it to ensure both halves are fully integrated. When you can no longer see any white ribbons running through the mix, add the rest of the meringue and repeat until you have one fully combined macaron mix. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a round nozzle. Place a piece of greaseproof paper onto a baking sheet and pipe small rounds, using one

hand to squeeze the top of the bag and other to steady the base. Tap the sheet 3 or 4 times on a worktop to remove any air bubbles before baking in the oven for 12 minutes at 160C/140C (fan)/gas mark 3. Remove from the oven and leave to cool slightly before removing the shells from the sheet. To make the filling, cut open the vanilla pod and scrape out the seeds. Add both the seeds and empty pod to the milk and bring to a boil. Whilst this is ongoing, beat the egg and sugar until thick and pale, and then add the cornflour. Pour a little of the heated vanilla milk into the

egg mixture and stir, then pour back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk. Heat, stirring continuously until thick. Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly before stirring in the melted butter. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set, leaving the empty vanilla pod in the cream to provide a cold infusion. Once set, remove the vanilla pod and pour the filling into a piping bag. Pipe a little filling onto half of the shells and then place the other halves on top, giving each one a small twist to secure. Refrigerate and enjoy within 3 days.

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Dig!al Nomad

an individual who is location-independent and who uses technology to work remotely from anywhere in the world

BECOME A D I G I TA L NOMAD CHLOE DICKENSON is the blogger behind I'm Just A Girl. Having travelled to over 25 countries, her blog includes extensive travel guides to many countries and cities all over the world, plus detailed food guides and hotel reviews and recommendations. She also shares backpacking tips and budgeting and career advice for budding freelancers and digital nomads

ith the rise in people working remotely, it’s never been easier to become a digital nomad and move your work to wherever you are or, more excitingly, wherever you want to be. For many people, being a digital nomad seems like a far-off distant dream that’s only attainable if you’re a megafamous Instagram influencer or if you’ve got a substantial trust fund behind you, but that’s certainly not the case anymore. If you’re considering a move to a career in the online world, perhaps one of the following online jobs for digital nomads might offer up some inspiration and give you that much-needed kickstart to begin a life of digital nomadism!

TRAVEL BLOGGER

With more than 570 million blogs in

circulation on the internet, it can be easy to feel like there’s no room for any more, but that really couldn’t be further from the truth. The beauty of blogging, in particular travel blogging, is that every traveller’s journey and adventures are entirely unique. Even if one million travel bloggers visit the same place and write about it on their blog, you can bet that each person will have a slightly different perspective and a slightly different story to tell. Travel blogging is arguably one of the best and most lucrative means of making money online as a digital nomad. There are very few barriers to entry, aside from a decent internet connection and an iPad or laptop to work from. It’s a job that can be done anywhere in the world. You’ll need to be prepared to work incredibly hard, especially in the early days, but once you’ve established yourself, your successes really know no bounds.

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New zealand

WEB DESIGNER

If you’ve got a penchant for taking something simple and turning it into a beautiful, creative masterpiece, then website designing could be an excellent job option. Perhaps you’ve spent the last five years working at a marketing firm, offering up your design skills as an in-house employee? If that kind of lifestyle no longer works for you, then you could create a freelance web design role for yourself and work for clients anywhere in the world.

DIGITAL MARKETING

The beauty of digital marketing, particularly as a nomad, is that it encompasses a whole manner of things. If you’ve got experience and knowledge in anything from Pinterest marketing to SEO to email campaigns and content marketing, you can offer these skills on a freelance basis while you enjoy your nomadic life.

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

TEACH ENGLISH ONLINE

Teaching English as a second language is a popular means of earning money in dozens of countries around the world. If you want to keep your career online as a nomad, you’ll be delighted to know that there are thousands of job opportunities to teach English online. You’ll need to get certified from an accredited TEFL course provider (such as The TEFL Org or TEFL.com), and once you’re equipped with the necessary credentials, you can find English teaching jobs online that can be done remotely from almost anywhere in the world.

FREELANCE WRITER

It’s thought that the majority of the workforce in America will be freelancers by 2027, so if you’re thinking that it’s a saturated place, think again. Working for yourself as a freelance writer, you get to choose the hours that you work, the clients that you work with and even where you work in the world. You’re also in charge of how much you earn, depending on how much you want to work,of course! The benefits of being a freelance writer is that you’ll have so much freedom, both creatively and with regards to your time. To get started, you can find freelance writing gigs on platforms such as UpWork, Fiverr and PeoplePerHour to build up your portfolio.

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With over one billion monthly users on Instagram and over 500 million daily active users, there’s never been a better time to have a social media presence. However, so many brands still don’t know how to utilise social media marketing for their business, and that’s where you could step in to lead their social strategy. If you’ve got a background in social media marketing, or even if you’re just self-taught but you can back up your experience and knowledge with statistics, you can take those invaluable skills and work from anywhere in the world.

TRADING AND INVESTING

Trading and investing is not an online career that you just fall into easily, and it’s certainly not for everyone.

TRAVEL BLOGGING IS ARGUABLY ONE OF THE BEST AND MOST LUCRATIVE MEANS OF MAKING MONEY ONLINE AS A DIGITAL NOMAD

NOW, WHERE TO? Now that you’ve got some inspiration on the kind of work you can do as a digital nomad, let’s get you inspired to find the best places in the world to work remotely online! As someone who has lived and worked as a freelance writer and travel blogger all over the world, here’s Chloe’s top ten: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Bali

Bali Prague Porto Bangkok Singapore Budapest Queenstown Kuala Lumpur New York City Ho Chi Minh City

However, if you have any financial background, or if you’ve spent years learning the industry yourself, it can be a great way to fund your travels and enjoy a nomadic lifestyle. Remember that it’s not an easy career choice, however, and you must ensure that you’re aware of all the financial pitfalls, as well as all the possible windfalls, of course!

Philippines

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER

Software development is another transferable skill that you can take from your day job and turn it into a lucrative role... It can involve anything from creating video games, to curating an entire website from scratch, and while you will usually need a fair bit of experience under your belt and a decent portfolio to boot, software development can be a great way to transition into a freelance role so you can work and travel at the same time.

NOT READY TO TAKE THE SELF-EMPLOYED LEAP?

The dream of remote working does require you to work! You’ll need to set up your own business or even learn entirely new skills in order to create an online job for yourself. If you aren’t ready for that leap, however, and you’d still prefer to have all the benefits that are involved with being employed full time, then ask your current employer if there is any possibility of taking your role remotely. You never know! n n Find Chloe's blog at imjustagirl16.co.uk

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Fujinomiya

FUJINOMIYA: WHERE KIMONOS, NATURAL

RESOURCES, AND SUSTAINABILITY INTERTWINE Words & Images: EULANDA SHEAD OSAGIEDE

Fujinomiya Over 300,000 people ascend Mt. Fuji’s snowy peak each year during the months of July and August. However, the city of Fujinomiya (located at the base of the mountain) is seeking to attract visitors interested in sustainability and ecotourism year round

er face lit up as I walked into the wooden doors of a tastefully decorated tour shop. She gave me a customary bow, which I’d come to anticipate and appreciate after eight days exploring Japan. I watched as she deftly pulled out a map and traced out our physical itinerary for the day. She explained

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that I was currently standing in the closest city to Mt. Fuji, Fujinomiya. On this occasion, I was exploring the mountain-base town of Fujinomiya with Bun-chan - my guide for the day. After graduating from Kanagawa University in the city of Yokohama, Bun-chan spent four years in Tokyo. After graduation she came back to Fujinomiya to work in the ecotourism industry with En-Ya Mt. Fuji Ecotours.

With conviction and a faint hint of sadness, she shared that the population of Fujinomiya had declined in recent years and how challenging this was to the local tourism industry. Bun-chan elaborated, saying that less people coming back to live and work in Fujinomiya meant that the job market would continue to shrink. However, a recent surge of ecotourism graduates like Bun-chan are heading back to their local cities to help revitalise the tourism industry and to educate keen visitors on local attractions, history, and sustainable tourism experiences. Our first stop was a local kimono shop Daimaru Gofukuten, who partners with En-Ya Mt. Fuji Ecotours to custom-fit tour attendees in kimonos, whilst educating them on the importance of these symbolic Japanese icons. As prints often reflect the beauty of Japan’s nature, my kimono was a gorgeous black and white geometric print covered in clusters of printed cherry blossoms. Bun-chan explained that the first version of the kimono worn by Heian noblewomen in the 8th century contained twelve layers, but has since been adapted over the centuries to make it more accessible. Despite the chill of the winter day, I was happily content with my three layer kimono. After departing the family run Kimono shop, we headed to explore a number of shrines located near Wakutamaike - a pond that collects melted snow that descends from Mt. Fuji. Earlier, when walking through the city, I noticed stone water fountains with bamboo pipes pouring out water. Wakutamaike also exhibits the same system, but with dozens of bamboo pipes protruding from the stone wall adjacent to the lake. Since Mt. Fuji only erupts every 300 years, it was surprising to learn that Fujinomiya has been able to produce an astounding 2,000 bottles of water (1.8 litres) per second from every lava layer burst. As Bun-chan directed me to fill a large, empty sake bottle she’d brought with her, I chuckled to myself thinking of all the years I’d purchased Fuji spring water in grocery stores, and here I was at the source. I shouldn’t

A RECENT SURGE OF ECOTOURISM GRADUATES LIKE BUN-CHAN ARE HEADING BACK TO THEIR LOCAL CITIES TO HELP REVITALISE THE TOURISM INDUSTRY

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Fujinomiya have been surprised at all by the freshness and purity of my first sip of water, but it was hard not to think that I would come back if only to drink this water. I later used my collected water to prepare a Japanese sweet with a local artisan, and Bun-chan boiled it for the Shizouka green tea I drank at the end of the tour. As I spoke with local artisans and longtime residents alike, each person I encountered shared their own personal stories of growing up near Mt. Fuji, and how important it was to preserve and cultivate their natural resources, while encouraging more visitors to responsibly experience the natural beauty of Fujinomiya. I later learned that a combination of clean air, pure water, and fertile soil

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only found in the Shizouka prefecture area of Japan that Fujinomiya is located in, enables pesticide-free farming for a number of thriving organic farms. I wish I was able to stay longer, and explore the city’s food culture. My inner adventurer voice tried to convince myself that next time I could attempt hiking Mt. Fuji, but I’d save that conversation for another day. As I sipped my green tea, and began to think about the journey back to my hotel, I reflected on the beauty of Fujinomiya’s ecotourism offerings. I hugged Bun-chan and thanked her for sharing her city with me. If Bun-chan only represents a small snapshot of the future of personalised ecotourism experiences, Fujinomiya is certainly in good hands. n

NEED TO KNOW n Township and Culture Ecotours are £104pp. Tour includes Kimono rental, an English speaking guide, insurance, and transport to and from Shin-Fuji or Fujinomiya station. Book at mtfujiecotours.com

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an individual who is location-independent and who uses technology to work remotely from anywhere in the world

TRAVEL BLOGGER

With more than 570 million blogs in

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WEB DESIGNER

DIGITAL MARKETING

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

TEACH ENGLISH ONLINE

FREELANCE WRITER

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TRADING AND INVESTING

Trading and investing is not an online career that you just fall into easily, and it’s certainly not for everyone.

TRAVEL BLOGGING IS ARGUABLY ONE OF THE BEST AND MOST LUCRATIVE MEANS OF MAKING MONEY ONLINE AS A DIGITAL NOMAD

Bali

Bali Prague Porto Bangkok Singapore Budapest Queenstown Kuala Lumpur New York City Ho Chi Minh City

Philippines

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER

NOT READY TO TAKE THE SELF-EMPLOYED LEAP?

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h s i ! r B A SUMMER

Words: TEAM COCO

ADVENTURE

Le Boat

e Boat is the number one provider of boating holidays in Europe and Canada’s beautiful inland waterways. With over 50 years of boating experience it’s fair to say that you will be in safe hands. This summer, we hired one of their self-driving boats and took some members of our team down the Thames for a five day adventure that we will never forget. From the ogling of the houses dotted along the Thames that boast a price tag of multimillions to the people that you meet along the way, a holiday with Le Boat will give you stories to share for a long time to come. Our Editor-in-Chief Laura was the captain and she’s still not over the fact that she was trusted to drive a vehicle so big down the river with no previous experience but thanks to the knowledgeable staff at Le Boat, the introduction and guided tour was enough to make her feel confident to grab the wheel. Here’s the lowdown from Laura and the rest of our #TeamCoco girls...

LAURA

Being the captain of my own boat was never on my bucket list until I ticked it off with Le Boat. There’s something so empowering about being in control of a boat of that size and I can certainly say that I felt like the Queen of the Thames. After picking up the boat and going through a really fast, simple introduction and a driving lesson, it

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was time to take the reins and become the captain of the boat. As we slowly made our way along the waterways, it was the people that we met along the way that made this a really unique experience. On the first day, we moored by the side of a pub where we stopped for some food and when we returned to our boat there was a barge alongside with a singer on the roof playing an intimate concert. With locals outside the pub dancing along, it was hard not to get swept up in the positive vibes. By the second day, I felt like I had mastered life as a captain. My crew were like seasoned pros and we had quickly created a routine that meant making our way through the regular locks was a breeze. At one specific lock, we were offered help by a girl at the side who then invited us into the Runnymede-onThames hotel for drinks. Cue me doing shots at 11am and making new friends - anyone who suggests tequila pre midday is a friend for me. If this was boating life, then this was definitely the life for me. The fact that we had conveniently planned our trip during the hottest day of the year was not lost on me. With the sun beaming down, it felt like we were a million miles away from London and no two days were the same. Along the route we met other Le Boat holiday makers and created a random bond with them, getting into conversations and sharing stories every time our paths crossed. It was clear that it wasn’t just us that was sold on the #boatlife.

Le Boat

h a ! a H HANNAH

Aside from being the #TeamCoco Le Boat Crew’s official ‘skipper’ — in charge of throwing the ropes and holding the boat in place at every lock — I was also the go-to for all nautical style advice on the water. As House of Coco ’s Fashion Editor, I regularly curate our ‘What to Pack’ shopping pages, primarily because I always manage to get an insane amount of mileage out of every piece I bring, no matter where I travel. In fact, my packing skills have often been compared to Mary Poppins’ own talents with her magical little purse. So much so that I’ve gotten used to the “how many outfits have you packed in that damn suitcase?!” comment, too. I love a good challenge; and so, when given the challenge to pack an endless amount of Le Boat looks in a teeny, tiny, suitcase, I was certainly up to the task. While our Le Boat ‘Crusader’ was quite roomy with three ensuite cabins, space is a luxury for any boating holiday. I shared a room with our resident wellness guru Anji, and so had to maximise the suitcase space to not overrun our room with clothes. My top tips are to pack 144

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lightweight, versatile pieces that you can mix and match. My perfect Le Boat suitcase will have one breezy kimono, a few rollable cropped tops, one oversized pastelcoloured button-down shirt, one mid-length wraparound skirt, a bikini, one pair of white shorts, espadrilles, the perfect cat-eye sunglasses, one standout summer dress, and of course a widebrimmed straw hat. Another top tip is to pack noncrease, easily rollable garments. “Don’t fold, ROLL” my mum used to say, as we rolled up a hundred pieces of clothing into our suitcases during family holidays in my youth. One loosely folded top is the space equivalent of five rolled up good ones – so remember that when packing for a holiday on the Thames. My golden rule is to only pack an item that can be worn at least three different ways. Be brutal in your editing, because on a boating holiday, suitcase space is as good as gold.

ANNA

My boating experience until this point can be summarised as 1) fell out of a few bright yellow dinghies on family holidays and 2) a novelty AirBnB stay in a very, let’s say

boho, to be kind, barge number in Hackney Wick. So, when the invite came in to join some of #TeamCoco on board, I wasn’t yet sure how to contribute. I know from pitiful attempts at ‘roping calves’ (wooden ones, I’ll add) while on assignment in Wyoming and Texas that, if left to me, we’d be floating slap bang in the middle of the river when attempting to moor at a lock.

A!a

The girls with House of Coco travel writer Eulanda, front left.

Accepting my natural talents and limitations - I opted to take charge of our celebratory first night dinner. With our fair captain, Laura, setting off for California it felt only fitting to arrange a feast with an opulent Hollywoodfeel onboard our boat. Le Boat’s fleet comes with well equipped kitchenettes but, the act of washing up would have washed off some of that glitz and glam. Enter Holly Sugars of Food Envy @foodenvylondon who, conveniently, is only based down the road from the Windsor Marina where we’d moored that evening. Pouring over Holly’s menus the week previous, while keeping all a secret from Laura, we’d settled on a delectable dinner of canapes followed by three courses, all

tailored to the group’s dietary needs. While sipping chilled fizz, Holly served us Chicken Tinga Tacos and Limey Crab Crispy Cups on the top deck - the first of the Californian nods in our menu. She also revealed that she used to live in LA, a wonderful good luck charm for Laura’s upcoming adventures. We moved to a table laid on the marina as more bottles were popped and we tucked into an unexpected summery delight of baked agave peaches with parma ham and buffalo mozzarella. If we’d stopped there, we would have been delighted with the evening. But, as the sun set and lit the sky with coral streaks, the mains arrived - surf and turf for that bouji steakhouse feel, finished

‘MY BOATING EXPERIENCE UNTIL THIS POINT CAN BE SUMMARISED AS... ‘FELL OUT OF A FEW BRIGHT YELLOW DINGHIES ON FAMILY HOLIDAYS..’ - ANNA

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Le Boat

Anji off with gooey brownies topped with macarons. Collectively, we’ve all been lucky enough to travel for House of Coco but who would have guessed that a Thames riverside dinner would have such a lasting memory for all of us.

ANJI

I was always one stop ahead, planning the next mooring location. There are so many fabulous bars and restaurants to stop off at and watch the world float. Here’s our tips on where to eat and drink enroute. The Boatman, Windsor boatmanwindsor.com Nestled below Windsor Castle and overlooking Eton Bridge, The Boatman, Windsor’s only riverside pub is the perfect location to stop off for a spot of lunch or an afternoon drink. The menu is full of classic pub staples with a modern twist, all using locally sourced fresh ingredients. Be sure to try their legendary Eton Mess that was featured on BBC’s The 146

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One Show. Book a table on the terrace, kick back and soak up the best views. The Waterside Inn, Bray waterside-inn.co.uk If you fancy something a little bit special, then book into Alain Roux’s The Waterside Inn. This foodie’s favourite has held three Michelin stars since 1985. There is a riverside terrace and the indoor restaurant has floor to ceiling glass windows offering an uninterrupted view of the river. Expect fine dining without the pretentious atmosphere. It is worth noting that the dress code is ‘elegantly smart’ so heed Hannah’s packing tips! Cliveden House, Taplow clivedenhouse.co.uk Surrounded by elegant, manicured lawns and overlooking the River Thames is Cliveden House. Steeped in history and oozing style, this grand country house boasts the best afternoon tea on the Thames. Channel your

inner Lady Bridgerton, soak up the surroundings and savour the quintessentially English pastime of afternoon tea. Once you have indulged in all the delicious treats take a stroll around the grounds. The Angel on the Bridge, Henley on Thames theangelhenley.com As riverside pubs go, The Angel on the Bridge is a hidden gem. This quaint watering hole is ideal for a pint and a bite to eat. Dating back to 1728, this grade II listed pub is one of the most photographed and painted pubs in England, because of its architecture and the amazing riverside location on the River Thames. Pull up a pew on one of the benches outside and indulge in a bit of traditional pub grub. The menu is jam packed with favourites like Fish and Chips as well as a selection of sandwiches and nibbles. You can book a table indoors but tables on the terrace cannot be reserved and operate on a first come, first served basis. n

NEED TO KNOW n

THE BOAT AND ACCOMMODATION

Team Coco stayed on a Le Boat Crusader sleeping a maximum of six for five nights. Three separate cabins with en-suite bathrooms give these canal boats unparalleled privacy. This model offers a variety of sleeping arrangements from single and double beds to singles that convert to doubles, making it possible for you to cruise with children, single adults and couples. A four-night self-catered cruise on the River Thames during the 2021 boating season, starting and finishing at Le Boat’s base at Benson, is priced from £449 per boat. Transport to and from the base is not included. Team Coco used a mix of personal car transport and public transport to access the bases, both modes are easily accessible. n For more information and to

book your cruise, visit leboat.co.uk

MAKE IT A CRUISE TO REMEMBER

MUSIC You are going to rolling down the river for a good number of hours so get your playlists at the ready and a waterproof (!) portable speaker. We love the sleek Sonos Roam, which has 10 hours of play time. Fellow river travellers, you have been warned. n Sonos.com

BREAKFAST There’s no feeling quite like stepping outside into a fresh day, whether that’s onto a balcony in the Alps or to greet the swans and their cygnets in Henley-on-Thames. The

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iconic Melitta ® Aromaboy® is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year and with its retro look and energy saving design, it’s the ideal way to pop a brew on as you start a day on the water. n Melitta.co.uk

SUNDOWNERS As you are in charge of the boat, no drinking on duty but, once safely moored up, crack out the glasses. With space a luxury on a cruise, we’re packing bottles of the newly launched Marseille Midsummer Raspberry Gimlet by Tom Savano. Based on a classic naval tipple but with a twist, this is an apt, and delicious way to toast a day of successful sluice opening and closing (lock talk!) and admire the softening of the sky over the water. n Tomsavano.com

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If, like us, you too are a fan of Goldie Hawn’s flamboyant nautical fashions on cult classic, ‘Overboard’, then why not go overboard with these bright style staples on your next boating holiday? We’re packing light, bright and breezy pieces that can weather whatever challenge the river may bring, but also can be easily packed into just one small suitcase. Because while a smooth sea may have never made a skilled sailor, a well-packed one can at least look incredible while sailing on the Thames. Compiled by

HANNAH TAN-GILLIES

1. Straw Hat by Joules available at joules.com 2. Ruched Wrap One-Piece Swimsuit in Red Tapestry by Garnet Hill available at garnethill.com 3. Bromo Espadrilles by Solana available at wearesolana.com 4. Pink Sunglasses by Lacoste available at lacoste.com 5. Fleur Tiered Lemon Dress by Alémais available at alemais.com 6. White and Black Ruched Crop Top by Pinko at Amazon Fashion available at amazon.co.uk/fashion 7. Denim 501 Shorts by Levi’s available at levi.com THE

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10 13 7 11

8. Amethysts Slice Hoop Earrings by Tiana Jewel available at tianajewel.com 9. Bow polka-dot sandals by Dee Ocleppo available at deeocleppo.com 10. Amethyst Lavender Water by Amor Sui available at amor-sui.co.uk 11. Printed Swimsuit by Triumph available at triumph.com 12. Casino Nights Sunglasses by Privé Revaux available at eu.priverevaux.com 13. Carryall Straw Tote Bag by Abercrombie & Fitch available at abercrombie.com 14. Astrid Emerald Ditsy Skirt by Fresha London available at freshalondon.com THE

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Hotel " the moment Welcome to our new regular feature, Hotel of the Moment, where our Editor-in-Chief LAURA BARTLETT whittles down her favourite hotels every quarter to choose just one

Ed!or's pick:

MONDRIAN SHOREDITCH

45 Curtain Rd Shoreditch London EC2A 3PT 150

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y debut Hotel of the Moment is the Mondrian Shoreditch which marks the brand’s return to London, stealing the limelight as the new kid on the block that can teach the oldies a thing or two about how to create a hotel that will make you want to return, time and time again. With 120 rooms, the hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Shoreditch and brings a fitting amount of creativity and culture. The hotel boasts a pretty impressive rooftop pool, not a sight we see often in London, and a real charm and atmosphere that is hard to replicate. It’s an Instagrammers’ dream, a design enthusiast's happy place and a foodie's paradise. World famous chef Dani Garcia is the brainchild behind Bibo, the Spanish restaurant that doesn’t even feel like it’s inside a hotel. It has so much sass and character, Bibo is the ultimate date night

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spot or pre party dinner venue as you can expect seriously high vibes! A cocktail (or three) in Christina’s on the ground floor is a must before checking out, this all-day cafe and cocktail bar has seriously cool, laidback vibes that will have you wanting to come back for more. Plus there’s a 24 hour gym so you can burn off those extra calories anytime you like. There’s even a room in the lobby dedicated to getting the perfect Instagram worthy shot proving that this hotel means business when it comes to being the most talked about launch in a long time. I think they have nailed it and then some. n n Nightly rates at Mondrian Shoreditch London start from £299 inclusive of VAT and breakfast. n Call: +44 (0) 203 988 4455 n For more information visit MondrianShoreditch.com

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WHEN IN

FROME LAUREN KATE HUGHES visits the town that’s curing loneliness

omerset’s historic market towns all have their own distinctive charms, but Frome, with its honey hues and cobbled streets has to be one of the most picturesque. With winding pathways reminiscent of sleepy French villages, it’s the perfect place to enjoy pastries and people watch, wander through a local gallery, or prop up the bar in one of its charming late-night boltholes; you’ll certainly find a barman with a story or two to tell. But there’s a lot more to this peaceful town than first impressions reveal. Beneath Frome’s serene surface, a pioneering initiative has transformed life for its residents, tackling one of humankind’s most deadly threats; loneliness. In 2013, Frome was selected as part of a new project based around practising compassion. Aptly named, The Compassion Frome Project, the initiative was launched by local GP Dr Helen Kingston. Kingston’s aim was to build a community network that would improve the health of its members by encouraging real human connection. Loneliness spans generations and situations; anyone from millennials to the elderly can fall victim to isolation and escaping its clutches can be difficult. After all, finding a way out of loneliness isn’t a

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n Eight Stony Street has a vast wine selection that feels almost like a library and offers delicious meat, cheese, fish and vegetable boards eightstonystreet.com n Bistro Lotte is a charming French Bistro and B&B with a sister cocktail bar just round the corner bistrolottefrome.co.uk n Black Swan Arts is a charming art gallery showcasing upcoming artists blackswanarts.org.uk

THERE IS OVERWHELMING EVIDENCE TO SUGGEST THAT WITHDRAWAL FROM SOCIAL INTERACTION CAN HAVE A NEGATIVE IMPACT ON OUR WELLBEING...

n Frome’s weekly markets are on a Wednesday and Saturday 9am - 3pm and are well worth a visit discoverfrome.co.uk THE

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one-person job. Kingston’s experiment went straight for the jugular, creating a network at the heart of the community. With the help of her local practice, the local council and another pioneering woman, Jenny Hartnoll, Service Lead for Health Connections Mendip, Kingston created an online noticeboard uniting community groups and allowing those in vulnerable positions to get the help they need. Practically, this meant assisting with weekly shops, dog walking rotas, communal cooking and cleaning, as well as more social activities like book clubs, walking groups and crafting. Hartnoll set up a talking cafe where people could go and have a natter during time slots throughout the week, no reason needed. Not only were resources and activities made readily available, but nurses and doctors could point their patients to a place where they would be welcomed and supported. Kingston and Hartnoll believed that if you give people the opportunity to help others, they will do so automatically. And did it work? Well, the stats don’t lie. Data from the British Journal General Practice shows that while hospital admissions in the rest of Somerset rose by 29%, in Frome they declined by 14% in the five years after the experiment. Julian Abel, a palliative care physician and Director of Compassionate Communities proclaimed that, ”No other interventions on record have reduced emergency admissions across a population. The implications of what has happened in Frome are profound.” It would seem that the power of connection isn’t to be underestimated.

THE BURDEN OF LONELINESS

Introverts, this is not a slight against you. For many a quiet life is appealing,

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but for many others human connection just simply isn’t on the table. There is overwhelming evidence to suggest that withdrawal from social interaction can have a negative impact on our wellbeing. Declining levels of oxytocin - the hormone that’s released during physical contact - has been linked to chronic depression. While other medical studies have found that lonely people have higher levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that can impair our immune systems. “Social relationships are more effective than giving up smoking, drinking, diet and exercise and practically everything else we care to mention,” said Julian Abel in his Ted Talk, Why Compassion Matters. “It’s in our biochemistry. In those moments of joy and harmony and

JOIN #COCOCOLLECTIVE House of Coco’s Coco Collective is an online community of like-minded individuals with a passion for exploring the world and making their dreams a reality. Follow us on Instagram to find out how you can become part of the #cococollective, a supportive and thriving online community.

LESSONS LEARNED FROM COMPASSIONATE COMMUNITIES

“HUMAN BEINGS ARE THE MOST SOCIAL OF ANIMALS, WE HAVE COMPASSION IN OUR EVOLUTION...IT’S PART OF OUR SURVIVAL”. – JULIAN ABEL, DIRECTOR OF COMPASSIONATE COMMUNITIES

compassion, you can measure the socalled socialising hormone oxytocin. Human beings are the most social of animals, we have compassion in our evolution.” He later concluded, “it’s part of our survival”. But loneliness is now more of a threat than ever. The pandemic years have robbed us of the chance to connect with our loved ones physically, with isolation at an all time high. It comes as no surprise that we’ve seen a decline in the nation’s mental health with a huge 7.4 million people saying they felt lonely during the lockdown period, according to the Office For National Statistics. But, as the world slowly begins to open up, could community be the key to better public health?

THE

For those who live in London - or any sprawling, busy city - it’s common to feel disconnected. Sure, it’s easy to imagine a place like sleepy Frome, with its artistic hub and village-like feel thriving within a project like this. But what about the places where the community feels out of reach? You may have to get a little creative. As technology has evolved, more opportunities for online interaction have become available, including groups for people with shared interests, groups set up on community forums and WhatsApp threads for whole neighbourhoods - in short, you don’t have to rely on village life. Social media means it’s easier to connect with people than ever before, and as we’ve seen from what happened in Frome, it really is worth the effort. So how does community spirit work in action? “Our town council is extraordinarily resourceful and inventive; always coming up with community friendly events and services,” said Tracey Ashford, a director at Purple Elephant, a local charity in Frome. “During the pandemic, we sourced, compiled and hand delivered thousands of resources and support packs, with a doorstep chat and check-in, to local vulnerable and challenged families to support their kids in at-home education.” While local entrepreneur Charlotte Pidgeon told us her business has thrived with the community spirit in

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Frome. “The independent businesses all support each other and I think that is one reason we have such a thriving local economy. We moved here six years ago and our businesses have really flourished. We feel very lucky that people here want to spend money with local businesses and support independent ideas.” The three main principles of The Frome Compassion Project, simplified, are as follows. Firstly, create a support network of friends, family, neighbours or like-minded people to talk with, laugh with and share emotional burdens. Secondly, reach out to those in need to offer what you can practically, whether that’s walking their dog, giving some career advice over email, or being that person on the end of the

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phone when they have a difficult moment. Look out in particular for those who may be suffering from ill health and need extra help. In turn, people will do the same for you, creating a circular economy of support. Lastly, embrace community activities and enjoy life together. Whether that means a virtual meet up, coffee morning, choir practice, joining a hiking group or sinking a few at the local pub quiz. Reach out to neighbours, followers, friends and colleagues to offer your support if you have the capacity. This may feel uncomfortable at first, or perhaps you think we sound a little worthy, but when the benefits are so blindingly clear, there’s no doubt that it will be good for your health. n

C O C O L O V E S JULIE LEONARD COACHING

INDIGOWARES

Contact details:

Contact details: n www.Indigowares.com

Happiness Evangelist & Life Coach, Julie Leonard, helps women design their lives and fulfil their potential. Her wealth of experience helps women unlock limiting beliefs, gain clarity and achieve their goals in order to be truly happy.

n www.julieleonardcoaching.com

Indigowares brings you timeless luxury garments handcrafted through traditional textile processes. We are founded on sustainability and traceability within each garment, keeping our love for the heritage and practice of indigo dyeing at the heart of everything we create.

KELLY ROSE SKINCARE

SOFIA TSERETELI

Contact details: n www.beautybykellyrose.co.uk @kellyroseskinclinic

Contact details: n www.sofiatsereteli.com

Founded by multi-award winning Skin Therapist, Kelly Rose, Kelly Rose Skincare contains the highest quality, natural ingredients, proven to repair, restore and rebalance the skin for long-lasting results. Our sustainable range contains the bestselling reusable Signature Sponge, which effortlessly removes make-up including mascara, using just the sponge and water!

Based in Italy, Sofia Tsereteli is an independent and sought-after artisanal fashion designer creating timeless limited-edition collections. With a passion for Italian couture and a romantic Georgian heritage, her designs capture a love for feminine elegance and commitment to fine couture details.

MONA GABOR

STRUNG PRETTY

Contact details: n www.monagabor.com

Contact details: n www.strungpretty.com @strung.pretty

Mona Gabor is the Creatrix of “The Game of Colours”. Her abstract acrylic colorful compositions have a vibrant & fresh feel with a metallic and sheen effect. Being a self- taught painter, Mona enjoys the freedom to draw on her natural talent. Mona Gabor is the Creatrix of “The Game of Colours”. Her abstract acrylic colorful compositions have a vibrant & fresh feel with a metallic and sheen effect. Being a self- taught painter, Mona enjoys the freedom to draw on her natural talent.

Strung Pretty was born out of a necessity for function and fashion. Specializing in jewellery for masks and eyewear, co-founders Stephanie and Faith design each piece to keep stylish women safe on the go. Shop online.

ARTIFY NAILS

AMOR SUI

Get your nails done effortlessly and artfully at home with Artify Nails designer polish wraps in 10 mins. Our elegantly designed nail wraps fit all nails and last up to 10+ days. Enjoy premium manicure like easy application nail wraps at an affordable price.

AMOR SUI, meaning self love, is inspired by natural and holistic self care with a touch of opulence. From your home to body and mind, we believe a little care goes a long way. All of our ingredients are meticulously selected to create premium products. We never use animal testing or animal derived products.

Contact details: n www.artifynails.com @artify.nails

Contact details: n www.amor-sui.co.uk @amorsuiuk

NICOLE COLLIE

Using bold, sweeping colours and unique materials in her paintings, Nicole Collie focuses on the beauty, strength and reliance of women – helping them to feel confident in their own skin.

SANDRA HRABA

Sandra Hraba is an Austrian Artist. Inspired by the Australian natives. She wants to brighten up your home with colorful and creative paintings, and want to raise awareness to take care of our environment.

Contact details: Contact details: n www.nicolecollie.com @artify.nails

n www.sandrasmalereien.com @sandras_malereien

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C O C O L O V E S HERITAGE STORE

POSITIVE OUTLOOK

Designed to ‘feed skin and energise the soul’, Heritage Store has been dedicated to plant-powered skin care since 1969. Its range of clean, vegan and cruelty free products harness pure, potent ingredients to inspire positivity with nature’s healing properties.

Contact details:

Positive Outlook is an independent clothing brand born in the woodlands of Warwickshire. Sourced sustainably and ethically manufactured, our products use quality bio-based fabrics including bamboo, Tencel and organic cotton. Whether its clothing for doing days, comfort for chill days, or breathable gear for active days, our evergreen items keep people at heart and planet in mind.

n www.cultbeauty.co.uk/heritage-store

Contact details:

@heritagestorenaturalsuk

n www.positiveoutlookclothing.co.uk

YOANNY GARCIA

NAKED NUTRITION

Contact details: n www.ygyoannygarcia.com @yoannya_garcia

Contact details:

From the Dominican Republic roots and culture to the world, Yoanny Garcia luxury handbag collection are pieces of art you can collect and add to your look. Worn by celebrities, published in the biggest fashion magazines, it’s the biggest Latin fashion talent of the moment.

At Naked Nutrition our vision is to help support your health and fitness goals by sourcing premium ingredients, using as few of them as possible and being transparent so you know exactly what’s going into your body. It’s that simple.

n www.www.nakednutrition.com @yoannya_garcia

VICTORIA THE APP

DR. BUNMI OYINSAN

Contact details: n www.victoriatheapp.com @victoriatheapp

Contact details: n www.bunmioyinsan.com

Born in Lagos and raised in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Dr. Bunmi Oyinsan is a distinguished African author, luminary, and thought leader who represents African culture worldwide. Throughout her career, Dr. Oyinsan has produced and continues to produce numerous creative works notable for their depth, their diversity, and their unique voice.

Victoria the App connects creative, out-of-the-box thinkers through powerful conversations. The platform partners with established brands and with up-and-coming businesses for exciting events. With a networking and/or dating feature, the app fuses initial online discussions with members-only offline experiences.

JUST THE FOX KITCHEN

FAB LITTLE BAG

Contact details: n www.justthefoxkitchen.com

Contact details: n www.fablittlebag.com @fablittlebag

Sustainably sourced disposal bag for tampons, pads, one handed opening, opaque for discretion, seals closed for good hygiene. Keeps period product waste out of the rivers, oceans and beaches. Takes away the stress and the mess. Binning Feels Good!

We supply Delicious & Nutritious meals straight to your door or office. There is no negative diet culture here, just a weekly changing menu of super tasty and colourful meals. Now you can Reclaim Your Time and not think about cooking.

NOOR & VASL

ALICIA RAY WELLBEING

Contact details: n www.noorandvasluk.com @noorandvasl

Contact details:

Alicia Ray Wellbeing channels a holistic approach to health understanding the importance of aligning body and mind. Offering an online platform combining practices from psychology, yoga and mindfulness. Alicia offers Cornwallbased, nature-focused outdoor activities, mindful beach yoga classes and international yoga & wellbeing retreats.

Our purpose is to share our obsession for beauty and self-care with the nation. We bring you the highest quality skincare that are natural, vegan, organic, sustainable and most importantly cruelty free, delivering all over the UK.

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C O C O L O V E S THE QUEEN OF YOUTH

The Queen of Youth’, Ana Sakinyte, is the best kept secret in the celebrity world, returning her patients to their natural youthful appearances. Her facial #aesthetic treatments, including dermal fillers, anti-wrinkle injections and profhilo® hold back the hands of time.

Contact details:

n www.queenofyouth.co.uk @Queen_of_youth_official

MANDALA CREATIONS

Mandala Creations is an intentional jewelry and gifts brand founded by Archana Lodhia, that offers a unique selection of jewelry and candles with the intention to provide you with positive reminders. Each piece is designed and handmade using fine quality semiprecious gemstones which naturally promote good energy.

Contact details:

n www.mandalacreationsto.com

RITUELLE

HEATLESS HAIR

Born out of the philosophy ‘less is more’ Rituelle has created innovative dual ended magnetic brushes alongside their case with a built-in mirror, a perfect combination of style and functionality. Designed in Melboune, handmade by artisans, this product was created with longevity and sustainability in mind.

Heatless Hair have created the original curling ribbon as an alternative way to create effortless waves. The Heatless Hair Curling Ribbons is a non-damaging alternative to achieving luscious locks and reducing frizz. Each ribbon is handmade with 100% silk.

Contact details:

n www.rituellebeauty.com @rituellebeauty

Contact details:

n www.heatlesshair.com

CERVIN BLANC

LADIES LIFE LOUNGE

Contact details:

Cervin Blanc is an everyday luxury fine jewellery brand, conceived and established in Switzerland. We aim to combine the sophisticated minimalism of Swiss jewellery styles with British heritage and classical influences to create pieces suitable for modern tastes with classic, elegant undertones, using responsibly sourced diamonds & gemstones, all set in 18ct gold.

n www.cervinblanc.com @cervinblanc

Jodes Salt is a leading Assertiveness & Executive Coach for women, empowering them to smash glass ceilings, enhance their credibility & influence and live a liberating life getting what they want. She’s also co-founder of Ladies Life Lounge and Womanifest ™. Jodes’ new book, Woman Up, is out on the 2nd September.

n www.womanup.ladieslifelounge.com @jodes_salt

THE RE-WILDING

KB HAIR EXTENSIONS

Contact details:

Multi award-winning business, KB Hair Extensions specialises in celebrity loved and worn clip-in hair extensions along with a range of after care products created for hair extensions.

Ready to rewild yourself? Retreats, workshops and immersive woodland dining experiences that bring friends and strangers alike to feast over fire. Inspired by nature & human connection and also delivered to your door through conscious gifting.

n www.kbhairextensions.com

n www.the-rewilding.com

@kbhairextensions

@therewildingcommunity

DALÙ

CURATE BEAUTY

Contact details:

At DALÚ Natural Skincare® we understand the skin. Our mission is science-based high performance luxury organic skincare free of all chemicals. All our products are dermatologically tested and have clinically proven results. DALÚ has been awarded the Butterfly Mark powered by Positive Luxury in recognition of our excellence in sustainability.

n www.dalubeauty.com @dalunaturalskincare

Curate Beauty is a community-based wholesale buying platform that brings independent beauty brands and likeminded retailers under one digital roof. The founding team, of beauty and retail experts, provide brands with incredible stockists opportunities and unique partnership, increasing their brand awareness and boosting sales.

n www.curate-beauty.com @curatebeauty

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C O C O L O V E S DR DESIRÉE COX

HAIR THERAPIE

If 2020 taught us anything, it’s that life is unpredictable and unsure. Dr. Desirée Cox (MD, PhD) has been painting regenerative art for over 15 years, some of which is hanging next to an original Picasso. Dr. Desirée’s art is sure to bring inspiration, hope, and healing to the people who enjoy it.

Miracle care for difficult hair. Founder and CEO Claudette Villecourt wants to convince you just how much your hair needs protein. Originally conceived to help manage her own colored strands, The Fortifier gelatin mask is so game-changing at rebuilding and repairing damaged hair because it actually replaces the lost or missing protein that occurs with routine chemical or heat treatments. It is also genius at enhancing and giving bounce to natural curls or waves. All natural, non toxic and comes in three divine scents.

Contact details: n www.artregen.com @desiree.artregen.

Contact details:

n www.hair-therapie.com

SKIN X MONET

RISE COFFEE BOX

Contact details: n www.SkinxMonet.com @SkinxMonet

Contact details: n www.risecoffeebox.co.uk @risecoffeebox

Skin x Monét is an organic skincare line handmade with all natural oils and butters to bring out your skin’s healthiest appearance. Empowering people by offering healthier skincare options and an experience that’ll influence your lifestyle and wellness. Loving your skin, made easy.

Alice and Ben are based in South London and launched RiSE during lockdown last year. Their coffee and English wine subscription boxes showcase the best that the UK independent food and drink scene has to offer.

LEEDS AERIAL ARTS

GUNILLAR

Contact details: n www.leedsaerialarts.co.uk @leedsaerialarts

Contact details: n www.gunillar.com @bygunillar

Gunilla Rancke-Madsen is the founder of GUNILLAR. A company that practices sustainability and focuses on uplifting people and supporting them to live a meaningful, happy, and fulfilling life according to their purpose. She created the brand to help people discover themselves to align and step into their power so they can live an adventurous life on their own terms.

Leeds Aerial Arts is not your average gym, our mission is to inspire women to step beyond their comfort zone within our unique fitness classes including Aerial Hoop, Silks, Handstands, Stretch & Aerial Yoga. Building strength inside and out.

SWEET TREE BY BROWNS

DEL FOXTON

Contact details: n www.sweettreebybrowns.co.uk

Contact details: n www.delfoxton.com @delfoxton

As an outgrowth of my eco philosophy at “Del Foxton Adagio Art Gallery” I specialize in transforming paper waste into innovative eco friendly wall structures for home and office. Clients and Galleries welcomed our environmentally conscious artistry that honours the earth that sustains us. We would be happy to create an eco friendly wall sculpture for you.

Sweet Tree By Browns is a British eCommerce confectionary brand that specialises in making unique edible gifts and chocolate creations featuring the UK’s favourite branded sweets. Our Sweet Trees, Smash Cups and Smash Cakes can be personalised making them the perfect gift for any occasion.

ANEES JEWELLERY

MIRELLA JEWELLERY

Contact details: n www.aneesmalik.co.uk @aneesmalik_jewellery

Contact details: n www.mirella.at @mirellajewellery

Mirella is a Jewellery brand based in Vienna, Austria – founded by Mirella Czapka. Each statement piece is hand-crafted by the designer herself and therefore unique. Mirella offers exclusive jewellery: one of a kind, or limited to 3 max. 10 pieces per design worldwide!

Anees malik is a jewellery designer specialising in bespoke South Asian jewellery synonymously known for creating luxury one off creations. Based in the historic jewellery Quarter district of Birmingham.

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C O C O L O V E S LIPIVIR

LIMITLESS HER

Contact details: n www.lipivir.com @lipiviruk

Contact details: n www.limitlessher.co.uk @limitless.her

Want to prevent cold sores from appearing but still use your favourite lipstick? Applying lipivir® twice a day is proven to stop your cold sores. The vegan-friendly clear gel formula can be worn discreetly under lipstick or on its own.

Limitless Her was created to help people overcome challenges that prevent them from unlocking their fullest potential and talents! Through powerful exercises and insights, clients are able to transform their lives to gain confidence, clarity, change and beyond.

THIS GIRL CONSULTANCY

FIBI INTERIORS

This Girl Community was created to give professional women a none-judgmental networking platform.

Fibi Interiors is a bijou design and styling team based in West London co-founded by Fido Fawo in 2017. The Fibi mission is to continuously create effortlessly stunning interiors which are a true reflection of each individual’s personal style and aura.

Our membership encourages women to talk, collaborate and build a team of support around their personal and professional lives.

Contact details: n www.fibiinteriors.com @fibiinteriors

Contact details: n www.thisgirlcommunity.com @Thisgirlcommunity

ASTRO STASSIA

JARILYN JEWELRY

Contact details: n www.astrostassia.com @astrostassia

Contact details: n www. jarilynjewelrycarmel.com

Astro Stassia is a premium crystal boutique based in London, specialising in high quality, ethical and unique crystals curated by owner Amy Anastassia, who combines her passion for astrology and spirituality to the world of natural art.

Using birthstones of her clients, Jarilyn creates custom-designed puzzle stacking rings that can be worn as a single birthstone ring or can be combined with other birthstone rings to form a special union between couples, family members, and friends. These bespoke rings are also a unique alternative to wedding bands and anniversary or eternity rings. “The endless and fascinating combinations allow you to showcase a person’s love,” says Jarilyn.

EMIKA COLLECTIVE

ABOVE STUDIO

Contact details: n www.emikacollective.com @emikaco

Contact details: n www.abovestudio.co @abovestudio.co

Combining my love for fashion, my lifelong mission to empower women, and a nod to my colorful Thai roots is the birth of my brainchild, Above Studio. Through its sustainable efforts, Above Studio will show the world the magical story of Thai art and culture with the help of our very talented, local female artisan community

We are an Australian health & wellness brand that truly believes that the ultimate form of beauty begins from within, & from that, our simple, elegant & all natural supplements were born. We believe in the true power of all natural ingredients and want to change the way people think about them. We are not your average supplements brand.

WANT TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT EDITION OF HOUSE OF COCO? ENQUIRE TODAY BY EMAILING ADELLE@HOUSEOFCOCO.NET THE

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C O C O L O V E S THE QUEEN OF YOUTH

MANDALA CREATIONS

Contact details:

n www.queenofyouth.co.uk

Contact details:

@Queen_of_youth_official

n www.mandalacreationsto.com

RITUELLE

HEATLESS HAIR

Contact details:

n www.rituellebeauty.com @rituellebeauty

Contact details:

n www.heatlesshair.com

CERVIN BLANC

LADIES LIFE LOUNGE

Contact details:

n www.womanup.ladieslifelounge.com

n www.cervinblanc.com

@jodes_salt

@cervinblanc

THE RE-WILDING

KB HAIR EXTENSIONS

Contact details:

n www.the-rewilding.com @therewildingcommunity

DALÙ

Sumptuous Spa Treatments

Contact details: Condé Nast, Gaia Spa promotes your personal

n www.dalubeauty.com natural wellbeing. Find yourself naturally relaxed @dalunaturalskincare with Gaia Spa facilities and therapies to heal the mind and nourish the body. HOUSE OF COCO.NET 158

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Multi award-winning business, KB Hair Extensions specialises in celebrity loved and worn clip-in hair extensions along with a range of after care products created for hair extensions.

n www.kbhairextensions.com @kbhairextensions

CURATE BEAUTY

Indulgent Afternoon Tea

The perfect afternoon treat of delicately handmade

Contact details: cakes, exquisite pastries, scones alongside elegant

n www.curate-beauty.com bite-sized finger sandwiches. Served in the @curatebeauty dramatic surroundings of the quintessentially English Great Hall.

C O C O L O V E S

Visit

DR DESIRÉE COX

Contact details: n www.artregen.com @desiree.artregen.

The Enchanted Place On The Hill

HAIRBoringdon THERAPIE Hall Hotel & Spa, located on

Miracle care for difficult hair. Founder and CEO Claudette Villecourt of wants to convince is a luxury 5-star the outskirts Dartmoor, you just how much your hair needs protein. Originally conceived to helphotel managewith her ownan award-winning manor house colored strands, The Fortifier gelatin mask is so game-changing at rebuilding and repairing spa and 3 AA rosette & Michelin Plate damaged hair because it actually replaces the lost or missing protein thatdining occurs withatroutine Àclèaf. chemical or heat treatments. It is also genius at enhancing and giving bounce to natural curls or waves. All natural, non toxic and comes in three boringdonhall.co.uk divine scents.

Contact details: 01752 344 455 | @boringdonhall

n www.hair-therapie.com Boringdon Hall, Plymouth, Devon, PL7 4DP

SKIN X MONET

RISE COFFEE BOX

Contact details: n www.SkinxMonet.com @SkinxMonet

Contact details: n www.risecoffeebox.co.uk @risecoffeebox

LEEDS AERIAL ARTS

GUNILLAR

Contact details: n www.leedsaerialarts.co.uk @leedsaerialarts

Contact details: n www.gunillar.com @bygunillar

SWEET TREE BY BROWNS

DEL FOXTON

Contact details: n www.sweettreebybrowns.co.uk

Contact details: n www.delfoxton.com @delfoxton

ANEES JEWELLERY

Exceptional Dining Experiences

A showcase of inventive British fare, using only the

Contact details: finest locally sourced ingredients, Àclèaf is a unique n www.aneesmalik.co.uk dining experience where Head Chef Scott Paton’s @aneesmalik_jewellery

seasonally led signature four-course menu takes centre stage. HOUSE OF COCO.NET

MIRELLA JEWELLERY

Contact details: n www.mirella.at @mirellajewellery

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Multi award-winning business, KB Hair Extensions specialises in celebrity loved and worn clip-in hair extensions along with a range of after care products created for hair extensions. Find out more here: www.kbhairextensions.com