INSPIRED TRAVEL - Issue 1 Volume 16 2016

INSPIRED TRAVEL MAGAZINE

OCEAN VIEW 7

CRUISE CRUISE HUB OF THE CRUISE HUB OF THE REGION HUB OF THE REGION REGION

Dubai Cruise Tourism 2 w ww.inspire a ve lma g.co.u k +971 d4tr301 9300

Dubai Cruise Tourism +971 4 301 9300 Dubai Cruise Tourism

cruiseinfo@dubaitourism.ae

visitdubai.com

cruiseinfo@dubaitourism.ae

visitdubai.com

WELCOME Welcome to Inspired Travel! As the first issue, I feel this welcome is particularly poignant, and I really hope it doesn’t disappoint.

Summer in the UK is notoriously – how can I put this? – ‘un-summerlike’. Days here and there have gone by with appropriate temperatures and clear skies throughout, but as Brits we are used to having to carry our anoraks with us just in case and we have perfected the skill of wearing many layers.

However, as the name suggests, we are here to inspire you, the readers, with the vast array of travel opportunities out there. In this issue, there really is something for everyone as we cover cruising, Barbados, nature in Portugal, UK destinations, The Falklands, India and Sri Lanka, plus we reveal one of the top luxury honeymoon destinations (one you may not have considered before) and a more adventurous excursion in Snowdonia.

P&O Cruise Review - Page 28

We also introduce a luxury lifestyle section, which wasn’t featured in our previous brand, OV Travel. This covers wonderfully tasty recipes, interiors trends for a new look for your home, a guide on some of the best products you can spend your money on in the kitchen and we include motoring reviews too for the car enthusiasts.

We hope you are amply inspired by our first edition, but please do visit our website for yet more articles and images to set your travel imagination alight. www.inspiredtravelmag.com

Recipes - Page 68

w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 3

ISSUE 01, VOLUME 16 2016

CONTENTS

INSPIRED TRAVEL MAGAZINE

06 OCEAN VIEW 7

Cover Image: Grenada www.puregrenada.com

PARMA ITALY

14

CHANNEL ISLANDS

22

TOP CRUISING EXCURSIONS

Inspired Travel Magazine Managing Director/Publisher: Lee Mansfield lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk Group Director/Editor: Simon Skinner simon@lifemediagroup.co.uk Operations Director Clare Fermor clare@lifemediagroup.co.uk Deputy Editor: Jenny Ardagh jenny@lifemediagroup.co.uk Features Editor: Jess Saunders jess@lifemediagroup.co.uk Sales: Lou Dobson: lou@lifemediagroup.co.uk Elliott Mansfield elliott@lifemediagroup.co.uk Geoff Diamond geoff@lifemediagroup.co.uk Production Manager: Harriet Weston harriet@lifemediagroup.co.uk Production Designer Amy Watson amy@lifemediagroup.co.uk Accounts: Amelia Wellings: amelia@lifemediagroup.co.uk Subscriptions: Linda Grace linda@lifemediagroup.co.uk Published by: LMG SE LTD Unit 1, Swan Barn Business Centre Swan Barn Road, Hailsham, BN27 2BY 01323 819 007

28

36

40

P&O CRUISE REVIEW

THINGS TO DO IN SNOWDONIA

COVER FEATURE: PURE GRENADA

48

54

60

68

76

82

THE FALKLAND ISLANDS

HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS

INDIA AND SRI LANKA

Printed by: Gemini Print Unit A1, Dolphin Way, Shoreham-by-Sea BN43 6NZ 01273 464884 www.gemini-print.co.uk All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Inspired Travel Magazine do not necessarily represent the view of Life Media Group LTD. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publishers of Inspired Travel Magazine assume no reponsibilty for any damage, loss or injury arising from the participation in any offers, competitions or advertisment contained within Inspired Travel Magazine. All prices featured in Inspired Travel Magazine are correct at the time of going to press.

Copyright Life Media Group 2016 ©

4 w ww.ins pired tr a ve lm a g.co.u k

ESSENTIAL RECIPES

LIFESTYLE: INTERIOR TRENDS

MOTORING REVIEWS

w w w . i n spi r edtravelmag . co . uk 5

6 www.ins pired tr a ve lm a g.co.u k

AN UNMISSABLE TREAT Located just a few hours drive from the Italian Riviera and nestled within what is known as Italy’s ‘Food Valley’, lies the charming city of Parma. Claire McKeever reviews her experience of the ‘City of Gastronomy’

w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 7

PARMA ITALY Having recently been awarded “City of Gastronomy” in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, the city has now rightfully secured its position as one of Italy’s - if not the world’s - most exciting places to eat and drink.

In addition to its gastronomic success, Parma plays host to some of the country’s most beautiful architecture and is home to theatres and museums that are so charming they need to be seen to be believed.

As the current Deputy Mayor of Parma puts it: “Parma is not Rome, Florence or Venice but you can enjoy a long weekend here, with many surprising treasures”.

FOODIE FAVOURITES Parma will spoil you with its selection of eateries offering delicacies such as cured ham, truffle, porcini mushroom, parmesan cheese, alongside a vast selection of wines. The “proscuitto di Parma” (Parma ham) is very closely protected by the DOP (Protected Designation of Origin), to ensure that the product retains its quality and authenticity. Most restaurant menus and products (including all of the below) bear the DOP stamp of approval so customers can rest assured they are only sampling the best.

Borgo 20, is a modern and contemporary restaurant that sits along one of the city centre’s quiet cobblestoned streets. The warm lighting and beautifully decorated tables provide a relaxing atmosphere as you sample foods such as ham aged for five years, three year old prosciutto, homemade focaccia bread and black truffle.

Michelin starred Al Tramezzo is an intimate and traditional restaurant lying just outside of the city. It offers an impressive tasting menu based on produce the Parma-born chef has sourced from local suppliers. Their menu has included a starter of local ricotta cheese and forty-month-aged ham; followed by pumpkin cream with 8 w ww.inspire d tr a ve lm a g.co.u k

parmesan encrusted pork; main of suckling pig with roasted potatoes and a Parma Violet infused dessert to finish.

For an extremely authentic Parma foodie experience, the family-run Podere Cadassa Al Vedere is a must. The rustic building, situated in the countryside, has been a family home and business since 1780. Run by the Bergonzi family, the business offers a tour to its basement, where various charcuterie hang from the roof and can be made available to sample or purchase and take home. In another quarter of the building is a large dining room, where diners are treated to a special menu prepared by Enrico Bergonzi, the “Chef de Cuisine”. A truly authentic and heavenly experience for anyone wanting to experiment with Italy’s finest flavours.

Within the city there are also a number of delicatessans, where visitors can stock up on Parma’s many foodie favourites.

One such place is Salumeria Grisenti, a family-run deli that has been running in the historic centre of Parma for over fifty years.

However, if you are wanting the ultimate experience then Food Valley Travel offers a great “Street Food Walking Tour”, stopping at Salumeria Grisenti and many other great eateries within the city.

A SIDE OF WINE As is customary in Italy, food is often accompanied by wine and - if you are that way inclined - Parma has many excellent examples to choose from.

A popular wine label is Monte delle Vigne, a family-run wine producer that has vineyards spread across sixty hectares of land in the hills of Parma.

The different bottles of wine that are produced here come from a variety of grapes, including Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malvasia di Candia, Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Lambrusco.

Lambrusco is known to many as a cheap sparkling wine but Monte delle Vigne seems to be changing this reputation with its production of a surprisingly good red and white option.

PARMA ITALY

w w w . i n spi r edtravelmag . co . uk 9

PARMA ITALY

CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL HIGHLIGHTS Founded by the Romans in early BC, Parma is naturally steeped in historical features. This includes an ancient road situated in the main square, used by the Romans to access nearby cities such as Bologna and Modena, and wherein lies the impressive ‘Baptistry’, a building originally constructed in the 1100s. Also lying just a few steps away, is the city’s cathedral, which, in itself, is a beautiful sight to behold.

Wander further through the city and you will come across the traditional Regio Theatre, an opera house seating up to 1,200 people. The opera house first opened in the early 1800s and it is where the world-famous composer, Giuseppe Verdi, made his name.

Today, the building still opens it doors to the public, offering world class performances to audiences as they

10 www.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

palace occupied by the Farnese family sit under stunning frescoes and an during their dukedom. The palace was impressive 1,100kg Parisian chandelier. also greatly damaged during WW2 but Another theatre based within the still retains its scaling walls and large city is Teatro Farnese, built in 1618 courtyards to wander round. and made entirely from wood. The Only opening its doors to the public theatre was commissioned by the then in May 2015, the CSAC (Study Centre Duke of Parma, Ranuccio Farnese, in and Communication Archive) is a new preparation for a visit from the Duke of and intriguing addition to Parma’s Tuscany, whose daughter Farnese was cultural activities. keen to have marry The religious abbeyhis son. The Duke of turned-archive Tuscany didn’t make museum is located it to Parma on that Only opening its doors only a few kilometres occasion but he did to the public in May 2015, from the city centre eventually visit when the CSAC (Study Centre and stores some of his daughter married and Communication the country’s most the Duke’s son in a Archive) is a new and fascinating creative ceremony at the theatre intriguing addition to works. The museum ten years later. The Parma’s cultural activities has in its archives theatre was almost over 10 million completely destroyed different pieces of during WW2 but was work, many of which date back to resurrected in the late 1950s, using the early 19th Century. A selection of the original building methods that had pieces is displayed on rotation and has been used hundreds of years before. included items such as designer Gianni It’s open to visitors every day except Versace’s original sketchings; vintage Monday. photographs; posters of 1960s Italian Surrounding Teatro Farnese is adverts and various modern sculptures.

Palazzo della Pilotta, previously the

“

”

w w w . i n spi r edtravelmag . co . uk 11

TRACKR BRAVO

MUST-HAVE

£24.99 WWW.THETRACKR.COM/BRAVO

TRAVEL ACCESSORIES Small items make big differences when you travel. Put these must-have travel accessories on your list of essentials to pack!

COAST CLIPPER -TAUPE £210.13 WWW.COASTNEWZEALAND.COM

X-DORIA DEFENSE H2O IPHONE CASE £59

12 OCEAN VIEW

TAG CHARGING CABLE £39.99 WWW.NATIVEUNION.COM

WWW.XDORIALIFE.COM

RAVO

24.99 RAVO

MICROFIBRE ROUND TOWELS £40 WWW.DOCKANDBAY.CO.UK

THE PRYNT SMARTPHONE CASE £105.90 / $149.99 WWW.PRYNT.CO CATH KIDSTON TEXTURED BUTTON SPOT 4 WHEELED CABIN BAG £115

BASSBUDS 24 CARAT GOLD HEADPHONES £99.99 WWW.BASSBUDS.NET/UK OLYMPUS TG-TRACKER £279.99 WWW.OLYMPUS.CO.UK

WWW.DAISYPARK.CO.UK ADVENTURE PASSPORT COVER

£10 OCEAN VIEW WWW.TCH.NET

13

THE CHANNEL ISLANDS

THE

GLORIOUS

CHANNEL

ISLANDS When we think of an island getaway, our minds are often filled with the thought of Caribbean sand or South East Asian heat. But the UK has some amazing sights, fascinating history and impressive wildlife on islands just on its doorstep – why not make the most of it?

G

athered together just off the coast of France, the Channel Islands – made up of Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Herm and Sark – burst with picturesque coastlines, beautiful hidden harbours and old-school cobbled lanes, all for the explorer in you to lap up. Just a skip and a jump away from Britain and mainland Europe, the Channel Islands are the perfect getaway destinations for people from all walks of life: young, old, families, couples, the islands will have something to suit everyone’s needs and exceed expectations. Although all situated close together, each island oozes with it’s own unique character; offering select treasures. So what do the Channel Islands have to offer? ‘A lot’ would be the short answer, but Inspired Travel is here to give you all the details you need to know about these action-packed islands.

One of the most treasured elements of

14 www.inspire d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

these scenic islands is their history – one of the main reasons so many people visit. During World War II, the Channel Islands were the only British grounds to be occupied by the Nazis. Adolf Hitler considered the Channel Islands a smart landing destination for the invasion of mainland France, as the islands sat just 20 miles away from the French coast. The underground tunnels buried deep within the islands give visitors the ability to learn all about the effect of the German army on the islands and their residents. There are a number of castles, including the Elizabeth Castle, built on a rocky isle in St Aubin’s Bay, which has been defending the isle of Jersey for over 300 years, bringing an all-new historic experience to your visit.

History is not the only element these beautiful islands have to offer – there are many activities to get involved in,

“

THE CHANNEL ISLANDS

Many different species of seabird scale the beaches and cliffs of the coastal island, often spotted by passers-by

Elizabeth Castle - Jersey

”

and places to see. The Channel Islands are host to some of the most gorgeous, sandy beaches, including St Brelade’s Bay Beach – overlooked by closeby shops and restaurants. Additional landmarks – other than the multiple castles scattered around the islands – include the Corbiere Lighthouse with great views across the calm waters, Le Petit Train – an incredibly relaxing tour around the islands, along with various interesting and informational museums.

Jersey and Guernsey are the larger islands out of the bunch, and are the main entry points into the array of destinations for you and the pioneer that lies beneath. With regular ferries from both Britain and France, travelling to and from the islands is stress-free, and if you don’t like travelling long distances then a trip to the Channel Islands is definitely for you! The travel links between the main islands of Jersey and Guernsey and the quieter island of Alderney are extremely good, while ferries await to connect visitors to the other, more secluded islands.

Jersey is the home of some well-known and frequently visited attractions – the War Tunnels and informative German Underground Hospital included. If history and culture is something that tickles your fancy then these are places to visit – again, taking you back to the WWII occupation of Jersey. However, if animals and wildlife are more your thing then

w w w . i n spi r edtravelmag . co . uk 15

La Coupee - Sark

ope pub CSA Com is a ad

THE CHANNEL ISLANDS

Jersey Tourism/ Man vyi ©

L’Ancresse & Pembroke Bay

Beauport, St Brelade, Jersey

you’re in luck as Jersey is also the home of Durrell Wildlife Park, where you can become familiar with all the wonderful creatures that live on the island.

Exploring Alderney, Sark and Herm – the lesser known of the Channel Islands – is guaranteed to be just as fun as Jersey and Guernsey. These islands in particular host a whole load of adventure for grounds so small.

Although they are different islands with different personalities, Alderney, Sark and Herm are hosts of similar elements to their larger neighbours – activities for the traveller in you to become immersed in.

Alderney is the third largest of the Channel Islands, but isn’t actually large at all with a length of three miles and width of one-and-a-half miles – all the more impressive that there is such a large amount of activities, wildlife and history. Although Alderney is a destination that covers a wide range of holiday activities, it is best known for its spectrum of wildlife – birds and the rare ‘blonde hedgehog’ especially. Many different species of seabird scale the beaches and cliffs of the coastal island, often spotted by passers-by. Herm and Sark are similarly the perfect destinations for a truly relaxing getaway, offering a well-equipped stay with a minuscule amount of cars, crowds and certainly no stress!

A visit to one of the many glorious Channel Islands has proved to be incredibly successful with previous holidaymakers, but why listen to the experiences of other people when you can just discover for yourself?

16 w ww.inspire d tr a ve lm a g.co.u k

Starri

w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 17

StarringRole 242x210.indd 2

22/04/2016 15:50

ALDERNEY

Exploring an Astonishing Island Despite being the closest Channel Island to the UK mainland, Alderney offers a unique break away, with a huge depth of history, things to do and sights to see The tiny island of Alderney is the most northerly of the Channel Islands, a unique archipelago that has been part of the British Isles since the Norman Conquest in 1066, but remains outside both the EU and UK. Alderney is the closest of these islands to France, only eight miles distant across the formidable Alderney Race, and also to the UK, some 60 miles north of Portland Bill.

Exposed to the wild and spectacular Atlantic Ocean, Alderney retains a definite sense of mystery. Its nearest Englishspeaking neighbours are Sark and Guernsey, over 20 miles away across turbulent waters. Among the benefits of Alderney’s remoteness are its wildlife and historic heritage which remain relatively pristine. Essentially, Alderney remains uncrowded and largely unknown by potential visitors, making it a fascinating and rather exclusive place to get to know.

For many, a brief stop on a cruise 18 www.inspire d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

itinerary is their first taste of Alderney’s unique atmosphere. Whilst those precious few hours can reveal a great deal, Alderney’s enormous depth of history and rich wildlife deserve a stay of at least two or three nights. A specialist market is now starting to develop with short break tours enabling small groups to experience the island’s fascinating Roman, Victorian and World War Two heritage, superb seabirds, butterflies, moths and wildflowers. All are set in a richly varied landscape. Once new visitors arrive, they are usually stunned by what they find, and most make regular return trips.

In a concerted bid to improve the island’s tourism economy, Alderney Wildlife Trust, the Alderney Society and the island’s government, The States of Alderney, appointed me to lead a two year wildlife and heritage tourism programme, Living Islands, which was

concluded at the end of 2015. Living Islands had a very wide brief, with over 40 strands of work, but in essence it was launched to develop the market for specialist tours and independent visitors keen to see and understand the island’s amazing heritage – both natural and historic. At the same time, the partners believed that the island’s community would gain a new understanding of the value of this heritage, and perhaps participate in its conservation.

We set out to tackle some of the best examples of the Victorian and German fortifications lining the northern coast of Alderney. Fort Tourgis was completed in 1854 and housed over 350 officers and men. It’s a huge site, ripe for development as a superb hotel or apartments, but it also has very well preserved defences that were completely obscured, but actually protected by layers of vegetation. With initial impetus

“

Only Alderney’s spectacular wildlife is best seen in the months of April to October and is perhaps most spectacular in the spring

”

from 30th Royal Signals regiment, groups of local volunteers, assisted by skilled machine operators from the States Works Department, revealed the fascinating Cambridge Battery, one of five such positions at Tourgis. During World War Two, German forces had mounted a searchlight and machine guns above, and a 105mm beach defence gun bunker below the Victorian gun emplacements that have now been revealed. All this is now freely open to the public, with explanatory signs to guide their visits.

The team went on to clear out and interpret the very extensive German fortifications at Bibette Head overlooking Braye Harbour. Strongpoint Biberkopf, as it was known by the occupiers, is one of the most complete collections of German bunker engineering that survives on the Atlantic Wall. Visitors can freely explore beach defence and anti-tank gun bunkers, an armoured turret for heavy machine guns, an elaborate double ended searchlight position, personnel shelters with intact timber rifle racks, extensive perfectly preserved concrete lined trenches and a superb tunnel right out to the end of the point – make sure you take a torch!

Alderney’s spectacular wildlife is best seen in the months of April to October and is perhaps most spectacular in the spring. The island’s internationally important seabirds, and even the famous

blonde hedgehogs regularly work their magic on visitors. On a short visit it’s probably best to seek the help of a guided tour arranged by the helpful specialist team at the visitor information centre in Victoria Street, or the Alderney Wildlife Trust, who also offer a splendid boat trip taking in the puffin and gannet colonies just offshore. There’s even a bat and hedgehog tour starting at dusk.

It’s well worth hiring bikes to explore the island, and the introduction of electric power has transformed the experience for many – well worth considering if it’s a while since you pedalled up a hill.

While you’re walking around St Anne booking your activities, you cannot fail to notice the many Georgian era houses lining the town’s picturesque cobbled streets. They mark the island’s heyday during the privateering era of the late eighteenth century. Find out more on a town tour with an Alderney expert.

There’s one more “must-see” – the amazingly well preserved Roman Fort at Longis Bay. The Nunnery, as it’s known locally, dates from 300AD and is the subject of a new independent trust being set up to ensure that it is conserved and explained to a wider audience.

Whether you arrive on a cruise, as part of an organised tour, or you’re booking your trip with local accommodation providers, you’ll find programmes of special guided tours and events throughout the long season from Easter to the end of October. These tours are often run by well-informed volunteers, and are proving fascinating for local people, their family guests, and the growing number of visitors seeking to uncover some of Alderney’s secrets in 2016 and beyond.

By Martin Batt, Living Islands Manager, 2013-2015 w w w . i n spi r edtravelmag . co . uk 19

Beautiful Sark

J

The Channel Islands offer a unique adventure for travellers who love nature and the great outdoors, and just on your doorstep is one of the smallest, Sark Nestled in the English Channel just off the Normandy coast, Sark is the fourth smallest of the Channel Islands. Although part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, it has its own parliament and laws and is unique - British but somewhere completely different - providing a haven from the everyday noisy world, the perfect place to get away from it all.

Several things make Sark unique, most obviously its stunning beauty. You approach the tiny island by boat, your first sight the towering cliffs; in the spring covered in bluebells, thrift and daisies, then turning green and finally bronze in the autumn. The seabirds fly overhead, and sometimes little puffins may be seen bobbing on the water, or if you are really lucky, a pod of bottlenose dolphins will follow your boat in or out of the Sark harbour.

Disembarking does not break the

spell. Visitors choose either to walk up the path from the harbour, enjoying the wild flowers in the spring, or the sunny summer breeze, or to travel on the ‘toastrack’, our tractor-drawn bus. Once at the top you may walk to your hotel, guesthouse or self-catering cottage, or perhaps pick up a hired bike to cycle there. Or, you might be met by a horse and carriage. Luggage is transported directly from the boat to your accommodation on Sark.

There are no cars on Sark, only a few tractors. The pace of life is leisurely, geared to the horses that clop peacefully along the lanes, carrying visitors on sightseeing tours of the beauty spots.

The views from the headlands and from La Coupee, the isthmus that joins Sark to Little Sark, are truly magnificent. Artists and poets have always been inspired by the sweep of the coastline, the ever

changing sea and the pretty cottages nestled in the valleys. In addition, naturalists enjoy the variety of flowers, butterflies and birds, fishermen enjoy their peaceful days on the rocks or going out in a boat, and divers make the most of the clear waters. Many, however, just visit Sark for its tranquility, spending their days swimming or walking, and enjoying a meal out in a hotel or restaurant in the evening. The night sky on Sark has been recognised by the Dark Sky Association for its magnificence, with thousands of stars visible with the naked eye on a clear night. No wonder Sark has been designated as the World’s First Dark Sky Island.

For more information please contact Sark Tourism Telephone 01481 832345, or visit www.sark.co.uk

20 w ww.ins pi r e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

Ocean V

www.sark.co.uk

Just Some Of The Wonderful Things To Do On Sark

Watch do lphins foll owing

r puffins Look out fo

Explore the magical Seigneurie Gardens

k cream tea Savour a Sar

Put your feet up & admire the view

Explore th e island by pedal pow er

e island ge tour of th Take a carria

Discover sea life in the rock pools

. i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 21 Tw akwe wth e plunge w ith coaste ering

Ocean View ad 2.indd 1

the ferry

16/03/2016 09:58

CRUISING IN 2016

Ten

CRUISING IN 2016...

of the

best

Think you’re not the cruising ‘type’? Well, cruising has changed and Inspired has gathered a list of some of the best cruises and excursions you can experience in the modern era of luxury cruise destinations.

Perhaps some of these will take your fancy?

C

ruising has changed beyond all recognition in recent years; passengers and cruise lines alike are no longer content with just the tried and tested leisurely cruises around the Mediterranean or the Caribbean. Cruising has been lifted to a whole new level of sophistication with the advent of spectacular six-star luxurious ships and itineraries that feature the most exotic and adventurous destinations to suit all tastes.

Furthermore, cruise schedules are not exclusively about cruising but instead incorporate a host of rich and varied experiences right across the globe – to coin a phrase, the world is literally your oyster.

Here, we have selected ten awe-inspiring luxury cruise destinations incorporating some amazing excursions that are sure to get you hooked.

22 www.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

1

Mozambique

South African Discovery including Shamwari Safari

This 18-night voyage encompasses the best of land and sea in one of the most diverse countries in the world.

The first two nights are in the breathtakingly beautiful Cape Town before boarding the ultra-luxurious Silversea’s Silver Cloud ship for an incredible ten-night luxury cruise.

You will visit Port Elizabeth, Maputo, Mozambique, Richard’s Bay, Durban and East London before leaving the ship for a four-night stay at the award-

winning Shamwari Game Reserve.

No trip to this continent can be complete without visiting a game reserve and this is a pretty special one. Spanning 18,000 hectares, Shamwari is one of South Africa’s largest private game reserves, where guests are guided by expert rangers to search for the coveted ‘Big Five’ – the lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros – and more, under the mighty African sun.

e

CRUISING IN 2016 Maldives

2

Indian Ocean and African Treasures

brilliant white beaches of The Indian Ocean offers a the Maldives followed by treasure trove of discovery the fabulous Seychellen beginning with two nights islands of Praslin and in The Raffles Hotel Mahe.

Dubai, your cruise The Indian The African ship then takes Ocean is the leg of your you to the world’s third largest adventure Arab jewels ocean covering begins in of Abu Dhabi, an area of Mombasa and Muscat in 28,350,000 where you Oman. Next, square miles will stay at the it’s Mumbai, Serena Beach India before Hotel to explore this heading to the great bustling city and beyond. old Keralan spice city of Your trip ends with two nights Cochin. at the Fairmont Hotel in Then it’s on to the crystal Nairobi. clear lagoons and the

3

Exotic Islands of the South Pacific

There are more than 20,000 islands in the South Pacific that expand across a water area bigger than Africa, Asia and Europe combined and this 21-night cruise aboard Oceania’s newest ship, Sirena, offers sumptuous luxury and incredible sights to suit almost any taste.

Taking in the French Polynesian islands of Tahiti where you can marvel at the Faarumai Waterfalls, Huahine, to explore pristine white beaches and go sharkfeeding and then the stunning Rangiroa and its colourful

lagoon where you can also visit pearl farms or dive with manta rays. Next is Nuku Hiva, home to the entrancing Vaipo Waterfalls, one of the world’s tallest falls. If that doesn’t float your boat then take a wander on the black sand beaches, or a trip on an all-terrain vehicle around this craggy isle.

It’s then onto the Hawaiian islands Hilo, Honolulu, Lahaina and Nawiliwili, Kaui before your cruise concludes in Los Angeles, to bask on Malibu’s sun-kissed beaches or take in some retail therapy in Beverly Hills.

w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 23

CRUISING IN 2016 Costa Rica

4

Sydney

The Panama Canal, Costa Rica

Perfect for the discerning traveller, Azamara Quest is the vessel for this 19-day voyage.

Departing from Miami, you take in the legendary walled Colombian city of Cartagena, cosmopolitan Panama City and Golfito and its beautiful green backdrop for a Land Discovery excursion to Osa Peninsula.

Next is Quepos, surrounded by a lush rainforest and the Damas Estuary with its maze

of wetlands, crocodiles, herons and monkeys, followed by the Costa Rican town of Puntarenas to travel through the mangroves or go white-water rafting down the Corobici River The last part of your cruise is to Caldera, home to some of the country’s best national parks and, even better, you still have six nights to discover Costa Rica by land before heading home.

24 www.inspire d tr a ve lm a g.co.u k

5

Far East and Australia, featuring the Great Barrier Reef

Silversea’s Silver Shadow offers a personalised and sophisticated cruising experience for this 24-night cruise.

After starting in Singapore you’ll head for Indonesia with stops in Jakarta and Semarang, which is one of the oldest cities in Indonesia, situated on Java’s north coast between the shore of the Java Sea and a small ridge

of mountains. The voyage then moves to Surabaya, Bali and Komodo, which is also known as the Island of Dragons.

The city of Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territories is next, before taking in Cooktown, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns, Townsville and Brisbane, finally ending up with two nights exploring sensational Sydney.

CRUISING IN 2016 Antarctica

6

Rangoon

Pagan and The Upper Irrawaddy River Cruise

River cruising is probably the fastest growing area of the cruise market, offering a fantastic way to discover more remote destinations aboard the comfort of a luxury ship often likened to a boutique-style hotel.

There are 14 days to explore one of the less visited areas of the Irrawaddy River beginning with an overnight stay in Mandalay, Myanmar before boarding

the impressive Kha Byoo Pandaw.

As you travel up the picturesque Upper Irrawaddy you will be captivated by the magnificent temples of Pagan on a journey that takes you 1,000 miles, from Rangoon to Katha (once the home of George Orwell), before ending in Pagan where you transfer for one final night in Yangon.

7

Antarctica

This 18-night itinerary incorporates a 14-day luxury cruise to one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Jaw-dropping scenery, sparkling glaciers and an abundance of wildlife form the backbone of this tour of Antarctica that takes place in January and February with plenty of daylight and crisp, clear conditions so that you can enjoy it at its very best.

Mesmerising sights abound on this unforgettable voyage,

Did you know...?

Antarctica is almost 1.5 times the size of the U.S.?

including the massive ice floes and breathtaking scenery of the Schollart Channel (home to Gentoo penguins and Blue-eyed cormorants), Paradise Bay, the famous Gerlache Strait to see whales and seals and the uninhabited Elephant Island to spot anything from penguins to elephant seals – leaving you with memories to last a lifetime.

w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 25

CRUISING IN 2016

8

Easter Island and Treasures of the Americas

There are 23 wonderful nights to explore this fascinating part of the world aboard the personalised luxury of Celebrity Infinity, which combines exciting day excursions and the chance to unwind in equal measures.

Starting in Santiago perhaps the pinnacle of this trip is your visit to the mysterious Easter Island, just south of the Tropic of Capricorn, 3790km west of Chile, best known for being the site of more than 600 stone statues towering nine metres high.

9

It’s then back to Santiago to join your ship where you head for Valparaiso, then the oasis of Arica, before reaching the culturally diverse Peruvian capital of Lima. Next is Manta before you travel down the Panama Canal which, thanks to its lush rainforest environment, is a sanctuary for sloths, eagles, ocelots and toucans.

There is one last stop in Grand Cayman before your cruise concludes in Fort Lauderdale.

The Galapagos Islands

Prepare to be amazed for seven days on this spectacular expedition cruise of the unique and extraordinary Galapagos Islands. Home to almost 2,000 different species of unique wildlife and the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution, the Galapagos Islands are located 500 miles from Ecuador and famed for their year round warmth, blue skies and calm seas.

Departing from Ecuador this fully inclusive cruise visits all of the major Galapagos Islands, enabling you to view at close quarters the likes of the Galapagos penguin, land iguanas, flightless cormorants, pelicans and sea lions. And if you’re really brave you can even risk the temperature of these unpredictable waters for the chance to snorkel or dive with sea lions, whales and schools of hammerhead sharks.

26 www.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

Easter Island

10

The Ancient Wonder of Machu Picchu & South America

Probably the highlight of this 21-night itinerary is a trip to Machu Picchu where you will find 200 perfectly chiselled unmortared stone buildings and one of the seven modern wonders of the world that was only rediscovered in 1911.

Beginning with two nights exploring the Peruvian capital of Lima, you then transfer to Cuzco and the Sacred Valley from which you visit breathtaking Machu Picchu, occupying a lofty position some 2,380 metres above sea level.

Your 14-night luxury cruise sets off from Santiago and takes in the World Heritage

site of Valparaiso, the oasis of Arica, and the Peruvian capital of Lima before journeying through the Panama Canal to Cartagena in the Port of Spain and then your final destination, Miami. A cruise of contrasting experiences and certainly one that will not be forgotten.

Written by Laura Lamb, Head of Product & Media, Reader Offers Limited.

CRUISE HUB OF THE REGION

Dubai Cruise Tourism +971 4 301 9300

cruiseinfo@dubaitourism.ae

visitdubai.com

w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 27

A MINI CRUISE

WITH P&O

Inspired Travel was whisked away on a press trip with P&O earlier this year. Jenny Ardagh describes her first experience on board a luxury cruise liner and on shore, giving her perspective on this mini cruise to Amsterdam and Bruges

28 w ww.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 29

P&O CRUISE

I

will start by admitting, I have never considered going on a cruise. That was until the biggest cruise line catering to the British market emailed me with an offer I simply couldn’t refuse.

So, why not cruising? Well, to put it very bluntly, I had always imagined a cruise to be catered for a slightly different type of traveller to myself; someone who enjoys the structure of an all-inclusive; who relishes guided tours; who cannot fathom a holiday without entertainment; and, let’s face it, someone older than myself. As someone in my 20s, the targeted marketing, many television adverts and online offers have gone over my head – as I’m sure it in fact was intended to.

Cruises, in my and I think most people’s minds, are traditionally for the older generation and families, so P&O

30 w ww.inspir e d tr a ve lm a g.co.u k

“

to my itinerary was a ‘chocolate can forgive me for not having booked my theme’, with activities including: a single and youthful self on one of their, or guided chocolate tour in Belgium and any company’s cruise previously. an onboard chocolate Having said that, I masterclass with none have never been averse other than chocolatier, to trying new things The Ventura consists Paul A. Young. and part of me was So, I was booked in to delighted to be given of 15 decks, with 1,555 embark the ship on 15th the chance to ‘sample’ cabins, of which 434 February, and disembark the ways of life on the are inside, 1,103 on 19th: a full working water. I was invited on a four-night excursion are outside and 881 week of excitement.

Often spending winters from Southampton have a balcony in the Caribbean, and to Amsterdam and on the water for 14 Bruges on the Ventura nights at least, this was – one of P&O’s larger a very short trip for the Ventura and those ships within its fleet of seven. Other aboard - a mini-cruise. ships include, Britannia, Azura, Arcadia Everything was new to me, so even and Oceana, with a few smaller, more embarkation was an experience. My plustraditional ships: Aurora and Oriana. one and I were taken to the port and, in Another extremely tempting addition

”

P&O CRUISE

true chicken pen fashion, all the ship’s guests sat waiting in one large room to board group-by-group in a very organised way. Finally, we boarded the Ventura: a magnificent specimen of engineering, architecture and design. Standing next to it, you suddenly understand how ants feel next to humans, with the sheer size of at least a ten-story building lying horizontally on the water.

I already had an idea in my head of what the interior would look like.

However, in hindsight this was based on nothing more than a particular –very famous- film; my only real peek into life on a cruise liner. Trying desperately to put Rose and Jack out of my mind, I spent a few minutes just taking everything in as I stepped into the atrium, surrounding by two curved staircases, and two sets of glass, tube-like lifts. Blue lights outlined

the room’s curves, reflecting off of the gleaming surfaces, and the whole thing looked wonderfully luxurious and inviting.

We made our way straight up to our cabin – a superior balcony cabin on the port side of the ship, on Deck 9. It was much more spacious than I had imagined (at 314 square feet, including a 42 square foot balcony), extremely clean, well laid out and with various amenities and useful facilities, including a double bed, ensuite, a sofa, an armchair, two televisions, two deck chairs on the balcony, a dressing table with hairdryer and plugs, two mirrors and a wardrobe – there were even a pair of binoculars. We also had a bottle of chilled champagne and a box of P&O Belgian chocolates awaiting our arrival, which was a delightful and muchappreciated addition. This was more like being in a London hotel than on a ship, w w w . i n spi r edtravelmag . co . uk 3 1

P&O CRUISE

just with the slightly disorientating idea that when you stepped out onto the balcony, you’d be met by a vast body of water, rather than the tourist centre of the Capital.

By the time we had boarded, it was 3pm and with a safety announcement and ‘drill’ at 4pm, we had time to explore the ship and plan our next day at sea.

The Ventura consists of 15 decks, with 1,555 cabins, of which 434 are inside, 1,103 are outside and 881 have a balcony. There are eight types of cabins: Penthouse, Suites, Superior Deluxe Balconies, Superior Balcony, Balcony, Outside, Inside and Singles.

P&O is renowned for its dining, and the Ventura is no exception to this. The ship’s signature restaurant, The Epicurean is where my partner and I were booked for dinner on the first evening on board, after we had set sale at around 5.30pm. There are also 11 other restaurants, including, The Bay Tree, an Indian restaurant called Sindhu, where we ate on our last evening on board, Waterside, The Beach House, Cinamon and Saffron - among others.

My partner and I were in fact booked onto Club Dining (except on the first and last night) despite thinking we would be on Freedom Dining. This was a bit of

32 w ww.inspir e d tr a ve lm a g.co.u k

a shame, as I didn’t get to try as many different restaurants as I had hoped.

However, the Bay Tree, where we were booked in for second sitting (8.30pm) was perfectly good for us, even if a little restrictive and crowded. The ‘sittings’ system was new to me also: one sitting at 6.30 and another at 8.30. Although I was happy with the 8.30 sitting, it made attending any evening entertainment a little difficult. Most things started at 10pm, which may be plenty of time for some people, but we like to take our time over dinner so often didn’t make it out of the restaurant until gone 10.30 at which point – feeling very boring indeed - we were ready to get to bed and to sleep before the day ahead!

The various bars were stylish and inviting, and I was pleasantly surprised by the very reasonable prices of the drinks themselves. On setting sail, we headed to Deck 10, the Lido Deck, for cocktails and to watch Southampton drift off into the distance, all to music from the on board DJ. This really set the tone for the days ahead, and a pleasant tone it was.

It felt exclusive and inclusive all at the same time; as if myself and the other passengers on that deck were part of a club that the mainland didn’t know about

and wouldn’t be privy to. I sipped my Piña Colada, wrapped up in the thickest coat I owned, a scarf, hat and gloves (an odd combination) and took in the view.

We were sat by one of the two outdoor pools on the ship and, although we had bravely brought our swimming gear with us, we weren’t quite confident enough to take a dip in the maximum 3-degree (Celsius) weather. As the sun set on this crisp, clear and in fact rather beautiful – luckily – evening, the cold got the better of us and we headed inside to get ready for our first evening meal on board the Ventura.

The Epicurean that evening was an experience to say the least. Firstly, despite being practically the only people in the restaurant, we were left waiting for a surprisingly long time before being offered anything to drink. And, there was a strangely long pause in between ordering our wine and receiving it.

Despite this, the service itself was polite and efficient (excluding time, of course).

As an amuse bouche, we were served an intriguing Bloody Mary ‘ice-lolly’ (yes,

P&O CRUISE

that’s exactly what it sounds like), which look and feel, and black and white, was actually a fantastic flavour, but wood-panelled décor. It was stylish, perhaps not something I’d choose to sophisticated and modern with a sense of have again. The menu was diverse with a real occasion. range of meat and fish, so it was difficult My first night’s sleep was fairly to decide what to have. I stepped right disturbed. Whether this was simply not into the holiday mode and went with a being used to travelling lobster dish, served on the water overnight – again, interestingly or something else – with a side of slow completely, I found I found it difficult to cooked beef and it difficult to switch switch off and ignore Dauphinoise potatoes. off and ignore the the steady bobbing of steady bobbing of Each component the ship. In general, it of this dish was the ship. In general, it absolutely delicious; was quite smooth – I was quite smooth – I the beef was tender often wouldn’t even often wouldn’t even and full of flavour; the notice the movement. notice the movement lobster tail was meaty; However, I did certainly and the sauce was need at least a day or creamy, going well two to adjust to the with both the meat and fish. All together, very slightly, but nonetheless affecting it was a strange sensation but it certainly movement, feeling a bit dizzy for at least didn’t clash. the first day or two. I was also surprised Having both starter and dessert, my to find that morning started fairly early on stomach was full to the brim, and I board the Ventura with an announcement couldn’t possibly eat any more. Overall, from the captain as to our whereabouts. the atmosphere was nice, with a bright The announcement was not in our

“

”

cabin itself but nonetheless loud enough from the hallways to wake me. On land days, this was around 6 – 7am, which would be fine perhaps for some, but I wasn’t best pleased, especially given that I often didn’t get to sleep until gone midnight due to soaking up the on-board entertainment after dinner.

The second day was a sea day, so I woke to the sound of water still lapping against the ship’s port side and popped my head out of the cabin to get that day’s itinerary. I skimmed out the brochure and saw a few things that may be of interest.

Unfortunately a lot of things clashed with each other, and a few other things had already started – or were about to start by the time I had seen the itinerary (I got to it at around 9.30am before having had breakfast). Nevertheless, we already had an activity booked in for early afternoon: a chocolate class with chocolatier, Paul Young. Located in Sindhu, we headed down for our interactive show. Paul is an inspirational chocolatier who has previously worked as Head Pastry Chef for Marco Pierre White and in 2014 was w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 3 3

P&O CRUISE named Outstanding British Chocolatier by the International Chocolate Awards.

He showed his small audience how to create the perfect truffle, with white, milk and dark chocolate. My favourite was the tequila dark chocolate truffle with lime zest grated over the top (my mouth is watering just thinking about it).

He showed us all the right techniques – and wrong ones – and inspired us all to make our own chocolate. This was a wonderful experience and certainly filled us up till our second sitting dinner!

That afternoon, we did in fact try to go for a swim, but it seemed the rest of the ship had the same idea and we struggled to find a spot to even get in the pool, let alone sit in the hot tub like we had planned to. This was a shame, but nevertheless, we enjoyed just sitting and watching the world go by – if a tad cold – and drinking a refreshing glass of ginger beer.

This evening was a bit more exciting than the other evenings, as it was formal evening. All the ladies came down to dinner in their ball gowns and sparkling shoes, and all the men came down in their tuxedos or two-piece suits. This was truly like being thrown back in time and was a fantastic celebration of

34 w ww.inspir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

where we were. The whole atmosphere changed. Everything was tinted with even more decadence and beauty.

The decks were filled with people all at their best, as well as photographers wanting to take posed photographs of everything looking fancy. We had our photograph taken by a few different photographers in different areas of the ship so that we could make our choice before our last night. These images then went onto tablets in the hallway on the main deck. Unfortunately, the price to buy the images was extremely high, so we only invested in one good one as a keepsake. We went to bed that evening feeling vey classy indeed and looking forward to our first day on land: in Amsterdam.

The next morning, after waking up to the shudder of the ship docking, my partner and I had our breakfast and moved down to join the queue in the atrium at around 9.30 am. The queue took a fair amount of time, only getting on to dry land over half an hour later.

But then we were free to roam this beautiful city – one that I had never had the privilege of going to before. Aware that we had a restricted amount of time to see everything we wanted to see, we

rented a couple of famous Amsterdam bikes and rode the streets. We explored the many bridges, drank some Dutch beer, tasted some (sort of) Dutch cuisine, had a must-do photograph with the ‘Amsterdam’ sign and sped quickly past the red light district.

I should point out that we could have booked ourselves onto a guided tour whilst on board, which varied in price and time taken. There was a choice of taking a river cruise, seeing the tulip fields outside of Amsterdam itself and a half or whole day guided tour of the city.

However, we were already booked on a tour the next day in Belgium and thought it best to simply explore ourselves.

We had to be back on the ship by 4.30 pm so, with heavy hearts, we made our way back to the ship for around 4 pm and took up our ‘usual’ spot on the top deck to watch Amsterdam shrink into the distance. This was in fact a beautiful evening, so I took the opportunity to take lots of photographs of the ship in the twilight, reflecting the bright lights of land against the darkness of the journey that lay ahead.

Belgium was a very different experience as we were booked onto a tour to Ghent, a small city in the northwest of Belgium

famous for its medieval architecture and, of course chips and chocolate – although, not together. Around 20 of us headed off on a coach with our tour guide and Paul Young. The journey took around 30 minutes, so I gazed out of the window and tried my best to get a feel for the country (fairly difficult to do from a motorway). Arriving in Ghent, I was amazed by the beauty of the streets: how calm it all was and the elegance of the buildings that lined the cobbles. Unfortunately, it was a pretty disgusting day weather-wise, but we pushed through, admiring the views as we went and headed into a chocolate shop. Here, we had a chocolatemaking demonstration, showing us all the process with which they make their delicious chocolate – some plain, some filled. Trying everything I could along the with spice and flavour, and the duck was way, I suddenly truly understood what all absolutely perfectly cooked. My partner the fuss was about. Belgian chocolate had a trio of creamy curries – chicken really was incredible. It was rich, creamy and lamb – which were all delicious. All and so pure tasting. The chocolatiers the plates were beautifully and precisely – husband and wife – were passionate presented to a very high standard, about ‘real’ chocolate; not the stuff you coming with a side of raita and naan get in supermarkets that have an expiry bread to complement our meals. This date two years on from purchase. After restaurant was a great demonstration of our demonstration, the famous Ventura we had a bit of time food experience. After to explore Ghent. dinner, we spent the We had a chocolateUnsurprisingly, a lot time simply wandering making demonstration, of the group went to about the decks, showing us all the process find a Belgian waffle, looking on at people with which they make including my partner. enjoying their time on their delicious chocolate I, on the other hand board. In the atrium, went in search of some – some plain, some filled. people were ballroom chips, learning that my dancing: jiving and Trying everything I could tourist status was given quickstepping. In the along the way away by the simplest bar, there was karaoke, of things: that I had with a list of 50 people ketchup with them, not mayo. I in fact to sing their song – no chance of having went for having both, just to confuse the a spontaneous singsong then! There was vendor. also comedy on in the theatre, which Back on-board, I was aware that this was packed full each night, and plenty was our last evening. We were booked of others wandering about as we were. I into the Sindhu restaurant for 8pm, most enjoyed being able to see the stars which made for a nice change as it was from our balcony. It was extremely eerie all beautiful Indian cuisine. I chose an walking out of our cabin to such a wide extremely tasty duck curry, which burst expanse of nothing. In daylight, you could

“

”

see glimpses of the English coast, but in the darkness it was a fairly isolating feeling.

We disembarked the next morning feeling as though we had been on an adventure. We were surprised at how manic the morning felt and we didn’t get time to have breakfast before being ushered back to Southampton docks, which was a real shame as we would have liked to enjoy our last morning at a more relaxed pace. I personally feel that this was the defining issue of the cruise as a whole – it simply wasn’t relaxed enough. Perhaps my holidays are too sloth-like for some, but the mini cruise did feel more like a whirlwind tour than a holiday. I would highly recommend anyone trying a mini cruise in order to get a feel for what it’s like. The 5 days did provide me with a good idea of what cruising is all about, and also gave us a fantastic opportunity to hop to and from Amsterdam and Belgium in a way that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise without a lot of hassle, time and effort on our part. This way, the hassle of travel was taken away, but the freedom restricted somewhat. Perhaps a longer cruise would be more free, but I think I’ll leave that to the enthusiasts and stick to air travel. w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 3 5

36 www.ins pir e d tr a ve lm a g.co.u k

5

THINGS TO DO IN

SNOWDONIA You don’t have to go too far afield to enjoy an adventure – Snowdonia offers the perfect summer break for those craving a bit more than just a beach. Offering beautiful views and plenty to do, Hannah Kacary recommends some of the best pastimes in this region of the great outdoors

A

re you starting to think about where to spend your summer break? If you’re anything like me then you’ll want to do something a bit different, a bit adventurous and daring. It’s easy to think these sorts of adventures are only available in a land far, far away. But you don’t have to look far from England to fulfil your desire of getting away from it all. You simply need to pack a bag, get on to a train or load up the car, and head to Snowdonia!

There are plenty of adventures to be had in Snowdonia and there’s also some pretty luxurious places too. When

I visited in January my weekend was more about relaxing and having a chilled out birthday; we went for a few walks and strolls along the beach. But, for something more lively, here’s five adventurous things to do in Snowdonia that I’m dying to try!

Oh, and you needn’t worry about the rain, the UK is supposed to be expecting a heatwave (the one the tabloids claim we’ll have every year). Even if the sun fails to shine Snowdonia is the perfect place for an adventurous holiday this year!

w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 3 7

1. Climb Mount Snowdon cave tour, Bounce Below has taken over Mount Snowdon, the highest point the old mines and turned them into a in Wales at an elevation of 1,085m, vibrant mass of trampolines. Bounce your is located in the Snowdonia National way through the caves in this unusual Park. An area of outstanding beauty, the experience.

Snowdonia National Park is home to many rare flora and fauna.

3. Go Below Mount Snowdon offers some of the If the rain is falling then there’s another best views in Britain. The unspoilt Welsh adventure to try in Snowdonia: Go landscape that stretches for miles in below. Go below is more extreme than front, behind, left and right, once you’ve Bounce Below and tests your nerves reached the summit by taking one of as you travel underground, taking on a several paths, will leave you series of adventurous challenges. wondering why you’ve Try zip-lining, boating across never spent much time in a lake, traversing an abyss, Wales before.

At 1,085 metres and abseiling a waterfall If you’re not feeling until you reach the lowest (3,560 feet), energetic, or like point in the UK! When Snowdon is the taking your holidays I visited Snowdonia for at a slower pace, my birthday earlier this highest mountain then you can take the year, Go Below was fully in Wales and Snowdon Mountain booked so be sure to England Railway which climbs book in advance!

4.7 miles from Llanberis to the summit of Snowdon.

4. Take a Tree Top Book your tickets in advance Adventure if you’re planning to visit in July or Home to the Tree Top Tower, the highest August as the railway can get a little Powerfan Plummet in the world, Tree busy!

Top Adventure is the perfect place to overcome your fear of heights. Take 2. Jump on an Underground on the Sky Ride or Europe’s highest Trampoline 5 seater Giant Swing if you dare! Not Blaenau Ffestiniog’s slate mine has been your standard swing, this one hoists turned into a theme park, and not just adventurers 80ft into the air before one any old theme park. A trampoline theme of you pulls the release cord and you’re park! Far removed from your average catapulted 120ft above the Conwy Valley!

38 w ww.inspir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

5. Canolfan Tryweryn, White Water Rafting The National White Water Centre near Bala is the place to head to for some water-based, adrenaline-fuelled adventures. The Tryweryn is a dam released river so water often flows even though other nearby rivers may be dry. There’s taster sessions, full rafting sessions and the intriguingly named Tryweryn Safari!

Are you tempted? Which adventure would you try?

By Hannah Kacary Visit Hannah’s blog for more top tips and stories: www.thatadventurer.co.uk

La Sablonnerie First established in 1948, La Sablonnerie retains the characteristics of an old farmhouse built some 400 years ago and is situated on the lovely island of Sark in the Channel Islands La Sablonnerie is a hotel of rare quality situated in the southern part of Sark, and is owned and managed by Elizabeth Perrée. Guests return year-after-year to recapture the beauty of the island and to enjoy the excellent cuisine, and the cosy and friendly atmosphere that the hotel radiates..

Of course being so close to the sea, freshly caught fish and famous Sark lobsters are popular specialities. La Sablonnerie has been featured by the ‘Which?’ hotel guide as ‘The place to stay in the Channel Islands’, and also received

Little Sark - Ideal Honeymoon Destination

the highly coveted award from Condé Nast Johansen - ‘Small Hotel of the Year’.

Needless to say, you have to visit us to find out exactly what everyone is talking about.

Nestled in gorgeous gardens, a haven for lovers of peace and tranquillity; how could one not enjoy this amazing paradise, even if you just arrive for one of our glorious cream teas or a Lobster Salad in the garden.

Sark offers exceptional star-gazing due to its lack of light pollution and La Sablonnerie is the ideal place to enjoy it..

The hotel has been extended and discreetly modernised to provide 22 rooms, each individual in style and décor, including a delightful Honeymoon Suite.

We provide immaculate comfort, excellent food and service, and courteous staff.

reservations@sablonneriesark.com

This delightful hotel and tea garden on the beautiful island of Sark promises you a truly magical stay. The hotel is a restored 16th-century farmhouse and has 22 individually-designed rooms and suites full of rustic charm, plus cosy public rooms and beautiful gardens. La Sablonnerie is noted throughout the Channel Islands for its excellent cuisine. Enjoy a delicious gourmet lunch or superb Sark cream tea – or dine romantically by candlelight. La Sablonnerie is like Sark itself – small, friendly and utterly enchanting. Come and find out for yourself.

OCEAN VIEW 39 For further details and reservations call Elizabeth Perrée on (01481) 832061 or Fax (01481) 832408 www.sablonneriesark.com Don’t leave the Channel Islands without visiting Sark and Little Sark. ‘It will be an experience that will live with you forever’.

40 w ww.ins pi r e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

THE SPICE OF THE CARIBBEAN Grenada, named the Spice Island due to its variety of spices, is an ideal place to relax and revitalise, offering beautiful scenery, diverse wildlife and plenty to see and do

w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 41

Cruising in 2016

N

estled in the clear azure waters of the southern Caribbean is the tri-island nation of Grenada. This country is made up of three islands; Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

Grenada is located at latitude 12 degrees north and longitude 61 degrees west, and is home to a host population of 100,152 (July 2014, estimate). In 2015, Grenada and its neighbouring dependency, Carriacou, welcomed approximately 281,000 manifested cruise passengers to its shores.

Global cruise lines, such as Carnival, P & O Cruises, Fred Olsen Cruises, AIDA, TUI, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Ltd., Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, and Silversea Cruises, have all brought significant cruise business into Grenada’s national economy.

The largest volume of cruise calls and passengers, are received between the months of October to April each year.

Cruise passengers are welcomed to its beautiful shores by warm, gracious

42 www.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

Grenadians, a large number of whom are trained to provide quality services for our cruise guests.

Most of the passengers who disembark from the cruise ships take pre-booked shore excursion tours to a variety of Grenada’s unique attractions. If you are a lover of sun, sea and sand, then the famous Grand Anse Beach is where you will want to be. Noted as being 3 km long, this beach of exquisite white sand will provide clear, warm and salty waters to wash your cares away. Grenada has over forty-five white and black sand beaches where you can swim, snorkel, paddle-board, and sun-bathe to your heart’s content. These are only a few of the beach activities that a visitor can enjoy while spending a day in Pure Grenada.

Families who are looking for a fun, educational, enjoyable, and interactive experience can visit the Spice Island Petting Zoo. This attraction is located in the lush, green countryside, approximately a forty-five minute drive from the capital

city of St. George’s, where the cruise ships are berthed. Another must see is the Grand Etang Forest Reserve, home to the Mona Monkey. The Belmont Estate is another one of Grenada’s world-renowned agri-tourism attractions. It is a fine example of a working estate where visitors can see the creation of rich, delicious chocolate, which is created from processing Grenadian cocoa-beans. One of the tours offered at the Belmont Estate will teach all of the necessary processes to take the precious cocoa beans and transform them into mouth watering chocolate.

Shore excursion tours to the River Antoine Estate will ensure that a visitor leaves with the understanding of how rum was made in the 18th century, and how that rum distillery process has continued up until today. At the River Antoine Estate white rums of 138 and 150 proof strength are manufactured using an 18th Century Water-Wheel. One can also purchase rums with a reduced potency to take back home as gifts for friends and loved ones.

Cruising in 2016 For those who are interested in horticulture, Grenada’s team at the Royal Horticulture Society’s (RHS) annual Chelsea Flower Show, won their 12th Gold Medal in London, UK, this year. Grenada’s eighteen gardens are living displays of tropical and exotic blooms, including ginger-lilies, birds of paradise, perfumed gingers, orchids, anthurium lilies and a host of other diverse flowering plants, ornamentals and shrubs. Jessamine Eden Botanic Garden is noted in particular for its production of global award-winning honey. You simply have to place this attraction on your list of things you must-see and do while visiting Pure Grenada – the Spice of the Caribbean.

Pure Diving: Out of this World In addition to terrestrial treasures, Grenada and Carriacou can also boast of being home to healthy reefs and marine life. The local scuba diving industry provides employment for persons at ten dive shops, three of which are located in Carriacou. Over fifty dive sites are located around the coastlines of Grenada and Carriacou, with wrecks, walls, reef and drift dives. Come to Grenada, scuba dive and snorkel at the world’s 1st Underwater Sculpture Park. View over sixty living underwater art pieces like the Ring of Children, designed by Jason de Caires Taylor, and Richardo Families Keens-Douglas’s Nutmeg who are Princess, which was sculpted looking for a by artist Lene Kilde. fun, educational, Welcome to Pure enjoyable, and Grenada – the Spice of interactive the Caribbean, where you experience can can just rest and rejuvenate visit the Spice your body and soul; visit Island Petting interesting historical sites; Zoo consume flavourful cuisine and local rums; and even hike through lush, green vegetation to see lovely waterfalls like Au Coin, Annandale, Concord and the Seven Sisters. If basking in the pure sunshine on Magazine Beach, or river-tubing at Balthazar is what you desire, then Pure Grenada has it all. Tell your cruise travel planner to take you away on a cruise today, to Pure Grenada – the Spice of the Caribbean. w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 43

Hastings Seafood and Wine Festival Treat yourself to delicious seafood and wine from surrounding vineyards at Hastings’ renowned Seafood and Wine Festival on 17th and 18th September The Seafood and Wine Festival in Hastings is a popular event that has been going for over ten years. Positioned on the Stade next to the fishing beach and Hastings’ unique net huts, with a backdrop of the East Hill funicular railway and Country Park, the festival is in an idyllic setting.

With over 40 stalls there will be plenty of locally caught fish to try as well as a range dishes and tasty treats from local producers and restaurants: street food, cider, wine, baked goods and gifts to take home, all within a stone’s throw of the beach.

Superb live music and street entertainment complete the lively festival atmosphere, making this an unmissable event. The music takes place in the marquee on the beach, with a beer festival run by the FILO Brewery. It all 44 w ww.inspir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

kicks off on Friday evening with Super Ska Night and the Two Tones.

You can catch some great performances across the weekend from the likes of Belgium band, The Iija de Neve band, The Hi-Fi Sneakers, and the acclaimed Kat & Co as well as local favourites, Thee Jezabels, Sam Calver Band, and Blues Brothers. The fantastic Liane Carroll will also be back with her ever popular Jazz breakfast on Sunday morning.

If that isn’t enough to whet your appetite, Billingsgate Seafood School will be hosting fantastic cooking demos in the purpose-built seafood training kitchen, Classroom on the Coast, and encouraging families to be hands-on with fish. You can also catch Paul Webbe, chef and owner of the Wild Mushroom and Webbe’s restaurants, who will also be cooking with local seasonal fish.

There will be crafty activities for children and Hastings’ fishing fleet will also be demonstrating their skills.

As part of the celebrations of the 950 year anniversary of the Battle of Hastings, there will be a Saxon and Norman theme to this year’s event with a pop-up castle, jesters and re-enactors. Come dressed from either side and claim a free Seafood and Wine glass.

Adult wristbands are £1 in advance from the Tourist Information Centre, Aquila House; £2 on the gate; children (U18) free. Tickets for Super Ska Night and the Liane Carroll Jazz Breakfast are sold separately. No dogs are allowed other than assist dogs.

Hastings Seafood and Wine Festival takes place on 17th and 18th September; 11am – 7pm, The Stade, Hastings.

www.hastingsfestivals.com

Tw

INSPIRED TRAVEL MAGAZINE

VISIT OUR WEBSITE:

Inspiredtravelmag.com w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . uk 45 OCEAN. co VIEW 5

Twitter: @Inspiredtravmag

Facebook Page: Inspiredtravelmag

Instagram: Inspiredtravelmag

The Natural Wonders of Arrabida If you’re not one to sit by and just admire the beauty of Portugal, but you’d rather get as involved with nature as possible, then exploring the Arrabida National Park in Sesimbra with Vertente Natural is for you

T

he southern European country of Portugal, bordering Spain and the Atlantic Ocean, is a place heavily influenced by its ocean-side location – in terms of culture, food and activities. Salt cod and grilled sardines are national dishes, the Algarve’s beaches are a major tourist destination and much of the nation’s architecture dates back to its Maritime Empire roots.

Sat adjacent to the city of Setubal and just a 30 minute drive from the bustle of Lisbon is Arrabida National Park; an area of stunning beauty, with beaches blending into estuaries, forest areas and one of the most dramatic, yet calm coastlines in Portugal. Here you can expect to see varied wildlife, such as dolphins, flamingos and storks, an array of plant life and stunning views as well as opportunities to undertake activities and adventures you’ve never experienced before.

46 www.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

marine life, and is particularly ideal when Amidst the deep blue sea and the experienced on the water itself. If you’re green of the hills, the Arrábida region as a whole is an excellent place to test your looking for a more relaxed experience, but still delight at the idea of discovering physical limits, but the National Park is something new, the also fantastic for beaches that the Park families wishing offers are particularly to experience extraordinary. Portinho something a bit Nobody can leave da Arrábida is one different that suits Arrábida National Park of the most beautiful all ages and taste; without feeling in wonder beaches and a great an adventure. The of the many things that place for scuba diving or park’s highest point, Mother Nature can offer snorkelling. Portinho da the Serra do Risco - especially with the help Arrábida and another, is a magnificent Figueirinha beach, are 380 metre high of Vertente Natural very popular among the cliff, which offers inhabitants of Lisbon a perfect chance and Setubal, overlooked for hikers, trekkers by the Convent of Our Lady of Arrábida, or casual walkers to get to know a former monastery established in the the pure Mediterranean scenery and 16th Century. This beach is also famous plant life. Equally, the Marine Reserve for being a regular feature on Portuguese offers opportunities to see an array of

“

”

TV commercials, so if you’re looking for somewhere a bit more secluded, you can always find a way of discovering the Ribeiro do Cavalo beach. This beach is reachable only by sea or by a hidden track, which only few know about, and provides magnificent views and great swimming and exploring opportunities.

The best way to teach your friends, family, parents or children about nature is to immerse them in it completely, and nobody can leave Arrábida National Park without feeling in wonder of the many things that Mother Nature can offer - especially with the help of Vertente Natural.

Vertente Natural is an activity company that’s dedicated to environmental education and nature adventures, so through the many activities on offer, not only will you be an amazed observer, but you will learn more and more by getting involved in what you see. The team offer open air and nautical activities, adrenaline-pumping and calmer activities that provide the ideal way of seeing the natural beauty of the Arrabida National Park. For example, coasteering, boat tours, trekking, canoeing, climbing, diving, snorkelling and much, much more.

Coasteering is a relatively new sport that involves making your way across rocky shores: swimming, climbing, rappelling, walking or jumping. This activity let’s you discover corners of the landscape which you may not otherwise find, such as hidden caves, undiscovered habitats, unique rock formations and wondrous flora and fauna. As a fairly dangerous activity, this is something that should always be supervised and organised by professionals who know the landscape and techniques. As pioneers of this activity, and repsonsible for many of the popular routes along the shore used today, Vertente Natural will take you through all the necessary procedures and provide all safety equipment, such as helmets, buoyancy aids and harnesses.

Canoeing is another fantastic option in Arrabida National Park, allowing you to be in perfect harmony with nature; observing, smelling the aromas, touching and listening, in a enjoyable way, getting to know natural places and the natural environment. The Marine Park Luís Saldanha, part of the Arrábida´s Natural Park, offers a perfect place to canoe.

This reserve was created in 1998 and today is one of the most rich and unique

reserves in Europe, lodging more than 1000 species of animals and plants. An organised boat trip provides a wonderful way of sitting back and relaxing, whilst taking in the magnificent views and wildlife spectacles – be sure to bring your camera! www.vertentenatural.com w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 47

TH E FALKAN D ISLAN DS

ISLANDS LIKE NO OTHER: THE FALKLANDS

It’s time to venture somewhere a bit different. The Falkland Islands lie just off the southeastern tip of South America, offering wonderful wildlife, interesting terrain and plenty to see and do

T

he Falkland Islands are a remote South Atlantic archipelago, situated approximately 400 miles off the southeastern tip of South America with rugged terrain and cliff-lined coasts. Its 778 compact islands and islets make up a total land area of 12,173 square kilometres – approximately half the size of Wales - and are home to abundant birdlife, flora and fauna.

According to 2006 Census figures, the Falklands’ population is just under 2,500.

Over 2,000 people live in the capital city, Stanley alone: equivalent to 85% of the total population of the Falklands. It’s safe to say Stanley is a must-see for visitors to the Islands, whether you’re coming by air or sea. Stanley sits on the largest of the islands, East Falkland, and includes the Falkland Islands Museum, with themed galleries devoted to maritime exploration, natural history and the 1982 Falklands War, among other subjects. West Falkland is linked to the East by air and ferry services as well as the outer islands and settlements, which are renowned for their natural beauty and wildlife. Workboat Services operates a ferry service between New Haven on East Falkland and Port Howard on West Falkland, allowing vehicles and passengers to travel 48 w ww.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

between the two main islands. With many cruise liners now heading here within their itineraries, the Falklands are a dramatic and wonderful place to experience by water. More than 30 companies now bring their cruising customers to the Islands and vessels generally visit Stanley and take in the views as they voyage onward to the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia and selected South American ports.

The Falklands are also easily accessed by two major flight routes: from Santiago every Saturday morning, flying via the southern Chilean city of Punta Arenas, and direct from the UK. Approximate flight time from Santiago to the Falklands is 6 hours (including the Punta Arenas stop-over). Total flight time from Oxfordshire on an MoD operated air service is 18 hours, including a refuelling stop on Ascension Island at the mid-way point.

In addition to exploring what Stanley has to offer, inland and off the coast of the Islands, visitors can often see the huge array of wildlife. More than 220 species of bird reside on the Islands, including 5 species of penguin and over 60% of the world’s black-browed albatross population. There are also 14

species of regularly occurring marine mammal, such as the Southern Elephant Seal, Southern Sea Lion, Commerson’s dolphin, Peale’s dolphin, and Killer Whale (Orca) alongside 350 species of plant.

Due to the proximity to the Antarctic (around the same distance as London is from the North Pole) the Falklands are generally cool in the summer, but warmer than England in the winter.

Summer brings long daylight hours and temperatures of around the mid 20s°C. The Falkland Islands have an extensive internal road network linking most points

WWW.FALKLANDISLANDS.COM

TH E FALKAN D ISLAN DS

SUGGESTED ITINERARY: FALKLANDS ROUND ROBIN • Arrive at Mount Pleasant Airport and transfer to San Carlos where you can visit the site of the British landing in 1982 and the British cemetery, as well as wander through the museum.

• Take a Falkland Islands Government Air Service (FIGAS) flight to Pebble Island to discover the semiprecious stones and fantastic diversity of wildlife including up to four species of breeding penguin.

• Transfer with FIGAS to Carcass Island to enjoy the tranquility of this small island and close encounters with some of the world’s rarest birds, the striated caracara.

• Take a day trip by boat to West Point Island with spectacular cliff-top scenery, a Black-Browed Albatross colony and Rockhopper Penguins.

• Hop to Weddell Island – the largest in the archipelago after East and West Falkland-offering great walking and

wildlife opportunities with plenty of open space for visitors to enjoy.

• Fly to Port Howard where you can experience a working farm and try your hand at a spot of fishing.

• Transfer with FIGAS to Sea Lion Island or Bleaker Island. Both are ideal to explore on foot due to the flat topography and you can discover a variety of wildlife.

• Take a flight on FIGAS to Stanley for two nights. Explore the Island’s capital on foot, visit the Falkland Islands’ Christ Church Cathedral, enjoy a stroll along the beach at Surf Bay, browse in the shops, pubs or restaurants. Or spend a day at Volunteer Point, the largest accessible king penguin colony in the world.

• Depart Stanley by vehicle for Mount Pleasant Airport and your onward journey.

Don’t forget souvenir shopping before you leave!

To make your time in the Falklands as enjoyable as possible we recommend you book with one of our approved travel agents – located either here in the Islands or in selected overseas countries. To find a preferred agent, see the Travel Guide section, Operators at www.falklandislands.com of interest and major settlements, so it’s easy to see all the sights you wish to see whilst here. If taking to the road as part of your holiday, be prepared to set aside anywhere from 1-4 hours to drive between settlements and points of interest. Despite a large portion of the Islands being made up of mountain ranges, the terrain is fairly flat, so driving is a good choice, especially if you hire an experienced guide to drive you. The speed limit in Stanley is 25mph and a maximum of 40mph on the open road. w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 49

TH E FALKAN D ISLAN DS

THE FALKLAND ISLANDS: ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED...

Inspired had the opportunity to speak to Austin Tony Mason, the Director of International Communications at Falkland Islands Tourist Board, about tourism on the islands and why in particular people should take the chance to visit Tony, The Falkland Islands have seen huge growth in tourism in recent years, what would you say has led to this surge in popularity?

In late 2012 we developed and put in place a strategic destination awareness campaign highlighting the amazing wildlife and experience on offer in the Falklands. We are working very closely with the leading travel agencies, as well as cruise and expedition companies from around the world to promote the islands and it’s been very successful.

Holland America, Princess, NCL, Crystal, Seaborne, Lindblad and One Ocean, to name a few, have all increased their calls and capacity coming to the islands. Once people are made aware of this amazing destination, it’s an easy sell. Readers can book holidays to the Falklands locally with Abercrombie and Kent, Ramblers or their favourite agent.

What are the main draws/attractions of the Falklands (sights, places to visit and popular activities) and what’s unique about the islands?

The draw really is the wildlife. In midJanuary the Penguin eggs hatch, Elephant Seals have given birth and there’s a certain buzz that is fantastic.

We have over 240 species of birds in the Falklands which includes five of the breeding species of Penguins. War enthusiasts will love the battleground tours on offer and the fly-fishing is an experience found in few places on the planet. The rivers are full, you just

and wildlife. It’s truly a wildlife enthusiasts or photographers dream come true and offers one of the most unique experiences available anywhere in the world. Last year we won the award for “Best Destination for Wildlife and Nature” in Selling Travels’ annual awards. The awards are voted for by the travel agents themselves.

Other destinations shortlisted were The Galapagos, South Africa, Botswana and Australia. People are really taking notice of the Falklands. If your readers are looking for a destination that very few or none of their friends have visited, this is the place for their next holiday.

throw the line in and pull out a fish! We have 778 islands which comprise the Falkland’s, most people only think of us as one main island and are surprised to learn how large we actually are. We have islands dedicated to tourism and every island has a different offering. On a good day there are several islands where you will actually see all five species of penguins. The appropriately named Sealion Island, is covered with Sealions, while Seals and Orca whales are spotted nearly every day as they come close to the shores. The most amazing group of Rockhopper Penguins can be found on the cliffs of Bleaker Island and they are accessible by a ten minute walk from the settlement. All of the other Islands are the same with the most stunning landscapes

What different forms of accommodation are available on the Islands?

I am really happy you asked this question. Two years ago we launched our accommodation accreditation programme. We have rated all of our accommodation based on European standards. We hired an independent firm from the UK to oversee the ratings.

On our outer islands you will find 2-4 star accommodation and the same in Stanley, our main town. We have bed and breakfasts all around Stanley and have two main hotels, Malvina House Hotel and the Waterfront Hotel. Both have excellent in-house restaurants with local chefs.

A full list of rated accommodations can be found on our website at www.falklandislands.com

5 0 w ww.inspir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

1134

TE FOR US VO AWARDS

2016

w w w . i n spi r edtravelmag . co . uk 51

1134 FITB (Tom Mason) Inspired Travel Ad.indd 1

01/06/2016 22:27

Creating The Turtle Tracks Family Sue Trew tells Inspired Travel of her Barbadian turtle discovery and how she shared the magical journeys of the creatures themselves with children in the form of her book, ‘Turtle Tracks’

G

rowing up in Barbados in the 1960s and 70s, we weren’t aware of turtles. I snorkelled regularly with my sisters, but we never saw them.

It wasn’t until much later, when I had my own children that turtles became a part of our lives.

The Barbados Sea Turtle Project, based at the University of the West Indies, played a big part in the change. For over 25 years they have been involved in the conservation of endangered sea turtles, monitoring the adults and juveniles that feed around Barbados, as well as the females that nest on our beaches and their hatchlings.

During nesting and hatching season, The Project volunteers have a very busy time.

With public awareness high, their hotline rings often with concerned turtle lovers reporting nest sightings or requesting help, as they try to gather up some 150

5 2 w ww.ins pir e d tr a ve lm a g.co.u k

turtles or seen them nest or hatch, but hatchlings scampering through a hotel not many have seen turtles themselves. reception!

One evening, we took some of our Over the years, our family has delighted in seeing numerous Hawksbills staff to see a hatchling release by the Barbados Sea Turtle lay their eggs and Project. A nest of about seen nests of 100 baby Hawksbills, sandy hatchlings which had emerged emerge from below My husband and I run too early in the day, the beach. Many our family business, Best were to be released at visitors to Barbados of Barbados Gift Shops, dusk - the safest time are lucky enough with five locations on the to set out on their big to witness both island, selling my turtle adventure. An excited phenomena too, art and turtle giftware group gathered to see but fewer locals the bucket of wriggling do. My husband designs baby turtles tipped onto and I run our family the beach and quickly business, Best make their way to the of Barbados Gift sea. Our staff and their children were Shops, with five locations on the island, thrilled! selling my turtle art and turtle giftware As we watched them negotiate through designs. Our staff interacts with many the breaking waves, all of us wishing visitors who have either swum with

“

”

BEST OF BARBADOS

them good luck, we were filled with a sense of wonder. How many would make it back as adults? I went home thinking, “We should be selling a children’s book on turtles!” It was to be the start of my first book, ‘Turtle Tracks’.

That was in the summer of 2012 and the rest you might say is history. Within a few months I had a great little book designed. I wrote the story about a Hawksbill turtle coming up on the beach to nest and about her hatchlings when they emerged. My plan was to write a series, available to visitors and locals, and make them all scientifically correct. What facts I couldn’t fit in the story, I put in the back under ‘Discussion Facts’ and we called the series ‘True Tales’.

As the book took shape, I was asked numerous questions; what was the name of the mummy turtle? Was she going to be a toy? Were the hatchlings going to have names and toys too? It was all new territory to me! Tilli, became the name of the nesting Hawksbill in Turtle Tracks and the book was printed in Barbados in early 2013. I was delighted.

Six hatchlings followed with their own personalities and colours too – Buzz, Zoom, Nibbles, Star, Moonlight and Bump. This led to a second book, ‘Happy Hatchlings’, telling of the adventures of six hatchlings as they emerged from their sandy nest and reached the sea for the very first time.

Researching, writing and illustrating the books and creating the toys has been the most incredible journey for me, but the most special part has been to see it in the hands of the children it was created

for - seeing their delight - that has been truly a thrill.

Also knowing that each family that reads one of my books at bedtime is learning more about our environment, passing on the message that we must care for the world around us and play our part to preserve it in any way we can.

I’ve been inspired to continue the series, adding a new book and toys each year.

In 2015, I wrote ‘Calypso Conch’, about a queen conch and her friend Blink, a peacock flounder. This year I’m working on ‘Dolphin Discovery’, comparing dolphin

mammals and dolphinfish, based around the story of a baby dolphin called Dart.

The line has expanded to include soft blankies, pillowcases and dinnerware, all of which kids love. What animals will feature next? I’m not sure yet, but I do know that I’ve no end of subjects from which to choose! One thing you can be sure of is that there will be a new book each year and children can continue to collect this beautiful series and have fun while they learn.

Written by Sue Trew w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 53

Photography by Kathryn Mason ©

A DREAM HONEYMOON DESTINATION

5 4 w ww.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

Photography by Kathryn Mason ©

HON EYMOON DESTINATIONS

Kathryn Mason takes you through the magical landscape, wildlife, sights, smells and taste sensations of South Africa, positing it as one of the top destinations for a honeymoon that combines both relaxation and luxury with a bit of adventure

W

ell-known for it’s prolific safari scene and world-famous wines, South Africa has long been considered a wildlife lover and foodie’s paradise. However, with its rich culture, melting-pot history, pristine beaches and spectacular scenery, this southern gem is so much more than a whistle-stop taste of the continent, and is fast becoming one of the world’s most exciting honeymoon destinations.

Blending the romantic luxury of popular beach hotspots such as the Caribbean, the character and cuisine of the French Riviera and adventurous nature of New Zealand, South Africa is perfect for couples who seek a more active pace for their honeymoon without sacrificing any of the comfort.

Greeted by some of the most friendly and welcoming people in the world, it’s clear from the outset that the South Africans know how to treat their guests.

From taxi drivers and waiters, to hotel staff and tour guides, no request is too much and there is always someone on hand to help or advise. It’s this personal service and attention to detail (along with, of course, the impeccable food and drink) that makes it such a fantastic place for that special holiday.

With so many beautiful spots in South Africa, it may seem daunting to try to take it all in within one trip, but it is possible to sample much of the wonderful sights and tastes it has to offer in a fortnight visit. The most popular way of seeing the Western Cape and stunning craggy coastlines of the country is the Garden Route, aptly named for its green, mountainous landscapes. No trip to this part of the world would be complete without the Big Five though, which can either be incorporated by flying north, to one of the country’s famous safari parks or as part of the Garden Route. w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 55

Photography by Kathryn Mason ©

CAPE TOWN & SURROUNDING AREA

The Waterfront is also where trips to the infamous Robben Island depart from at regular intervals throughout the day.

As the provincial capital of the Western Meaning ‘Seal Island’ in Dutch due to its Cape and legislative capital of South large population of furry friends, this 5kmAfrica, the coastal city round island has gone of Cape Town is nestled through a variety of in the foothills of the guises over the years, Another must seeiconic Table Mountain, but is most famous stop-off point is Boulders giving it an inclusive and for housing the prison Beach, a bay sheltered contained feel. where Nelson Mandela by granite boulders, The chic and modern was held for almost 20 V&A Waterfront is which is home to a years. Weather-beaten popular with tourists, coastlines frame this growing colony of offering a vast selection World Heritage Site, friendly and inquisitive of restaurants and which can be explored African Penguins. upmarket shops. on frequent guided Though arguably bus tours taking in a little soulless in comparison to the colonies of African penguins, the island’s bustling streets of the city centre, it is church (strangely popular for weddings) definitely worth a visit, if only for the and of course, the prison itself, known fabulous indoor food market at the Wharf now as the Robben Island Museum. which runs daily with a mesmerising Showing how far the country has come array of culinary concoctions to sample. since the apartheid years, fascinating

“

5 6 www.ins pi r e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

”

tours around the museum are conducted by former prisoners, offering unique, first-hand knowledge of this dark part of history, making it an incredibly humbling experience that really hits home.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that the Waterfront area is the only – or best – spot for tourism, entertainment and a lavish meal though. The views may be great at the Waterfront, but to capture the real buzz of this urban paradise, you can’t beat the Kloof Street area, found directly below the majestic Table Mountain.

Boasting unique and quirky bars including Mother’s Ruin (South Africa’s first gin and cocktail bar) and candlelit dinner settings such as Kloof Street House and Societi Bistro, there are some wonderful spots for a special night out, all within walking distance of one another.

The surrounding area of Cape Town is just as impressive as the city itself, with dramatic sea cliffs and land ends. Just an hour’s drive south of the metropolis, along

Photography by Kathryn Mason ©

Photography by Kathryn Mason ©

the craggy coast, past seaside towns and white sand beaches, is Cape Point, the southeast corner of the Cape Peninsula in Table Mountain National Park. Jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, this mountainous landform is a spectacular sight and perfect place to stop for a short walk.

Driving back up the coast, another mustsee stop-off point is Boulders Beach, a bay sheltered by granite boulders, which is home to a growing colony of friendly and inquisitive African Penguins.

The piéce de résistance of Cape Town, however, has to be its most iconic landmark, Table Mountain. Standing tall at over 1,000 metres above sea level, this magnificent landmark offers breathtaking 360 degree views of the city, bay and surrounding area. The flat-topped surface of the mountain is accessible by a mesmerising revolving cable car (which is an exciting experience in itself), though this is weather dependant, so its recommended to check whether the

cable car is running on the day of your visit. Queues also tend to be lengthy, so booking your ticket in advance and allowing enough time is advisable.

On a clear day, you can easily spend a good hour and a half walking around the mountain top, in awe of the inspiring rocky vistas – a truly unforgettable experience.

THE WINELANDS From Cape Town, it is a straightforward and easy drive towards South Africa’s legendary wine region, just east of the city. Most guidebooks direct visitors to the University town of Stellenbosch, the second oldest European settlement in South Africa after Cape Town and a great base for days out at the countless surrounding vineyards. Another option is to stay right in the heart of the action by residing in one of the luxurious Farm

Hotels, offering a unique, hands-on experience.

For a more intimate and peaceful experience, though, head to the smaller settlement of Franschoek. Translated as ‘French Corner’ in Afrikaan, this one-road valley town lives up to its name, offering a microcosm of European sophistication set against the backdrop of the region’s dramatic green and mountainous landscape. Home to an array of awardwinning restaurants, including Foliage and La Petite Ferme, as well as wonderful artisan cafés and quirky art and craft shops, Franschoek is a treat for both the eyes and taste buds.

The main attraction for this area, though, is obviously the wine. Taking in the spectacular scenery alongside the delicious produce, the hop-on, hop-off Wine Tram is a great way of sampling some of the finest wines in South Africa (if not the world) at a relaxed and laidback pace. For couples craving a more w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 57

HON EYMOON DESTINATIONS

Photography by Kathryn Mason ©

personal experience though, there are also private tours available where you can indulge in a chauffeur-driven day of tastings at some of the region’s highly acclaimed wineries. Combined with a morning of horse riding amongst the rolling vineyards, this is a wonderful way of enjoying the breathtaking landscapes whilst bringing the history of the region to life.

PLETTENBERG BAY A 5-6 hour drive from the winelands along the beautifully scenic Garden Route takes you to the immaculate beaches of Plettenberg Bay and the lush jungle terrain of Tsitsikamma National Park.

At the heart of the Garden Route is the peaceful, upmarket holiday town of Knysna. Whilst the area is fairly touristy and centred around luxurious holiday and retirement apartments, the striking Knysna Heads (two dramatic sea cliffs) offers impressive vistas and a chance to explore the area’s unique flora and fauna at the Featherbed Nature Reserve. It’s real selling point for honeymooners, is Knysna’s extensive idyllic and tranquil lagoon, perfect for romantic sunset cruises accompanied by a chilled glass of champagne!

Travelling further along the coast, the road leads to Plettenberg Bay, home to a vast stretch of white sand beach. Here, at this popular seaside holiday town, there are opportunities to view dolphins frolicking in the waves and a huge Cape fur seal colony on the Robberg Peninsula.

The real wow-factor lies further east, though, when you arrive at Tsitsikamma National Park, a 50-mile coastal reserve famed for its indigenous forests, striking coastlines and intense 5-day Otter Trail hike. Sides of paths are scattered with South Africa’s unique dassie rats, bathing in the sun, as the walking trail takes visitors to the impressive Storms River Mouth, with a wide, dramatic swing bridge joining the gorge which you can kayak through or enjoy a gentle stroll.

5 8 w ww.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

TOP TIPS • Stay in boutique hotels – If possible, try to avoid the large-scale resorts and hotels in favour of the smaller, boutique accommodation that South Africa does so well.

Guaranteeing unprecedented attention to detail and a truly personal experience, hotels such as Cape Cadogan in Cape Town and The Last Word in Franschoek go above and beyond to make your stay as special and memorable as it could possibly be.

• Drive yourself – With South Africans driving on the same side of the road as the UK and with easily signposted, open roads, driving around this beautiful country is wonderfully simple and an experience in itself. Though it may be tempting to go with a more relaxed form of transport, the flexibility and freedom of driving yourselves allows opportunities to enjoy some of the secluded, hidden spots slightly off the beaten track that can be spontaneously romantic.

• Allow enough time – As much as

you may want to explore every inch of your honeymoon destination, after the stresses of wedding planning and buzz of the big day, the first activity on your list will no doubt be to relax!

The laid-back pace of South Africa lends itself perfectly to this, so allow enough time to drink (and eat) it all in, as well as ticking everything off your activity list, and don’t feel guilty about spending an afternoon just reading a book or sitting on the beach.

• Consider the time of year – Like the UK, South Africa has four changeable seasons with drastic differences in temperature and conditions which affect the wildlife in season and what is available. When planning a trip, do your research and take this into account, particularly if you’re keen on going whale watching.

• Honeymoon gift list – Many travel agents now offer a personalised gift list tailored to your trip and activities which can be a great way of both helping with the cost of your honeymoon and involving your family and friends in your trip of a lifetime.

w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 59

Adobe Stock | WONG SZE FEI ©

60 www.ins p ir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

A TASTE OF THE EXOTIC There is much deliberation surrounding the unanswered question: do Eastern World countries - India and Sri Lanka in particular - make suitable holiday destinations? Well here at Inspired Travel, we say yes, they make just as good a holiday destination as popular western countries, and here’s why‌

w w w . i n spi r edtravelmag . co . uk 6 1 Zanskar and Indus rivers view, India

Adobe Stock | luciano mortula ©

O

riginally residing on a different tectonic plate to other Asian countries, India is a country that benefits the world with its beautiful landmarks and wonderfully vibrant culture. The two plates collided millions of years ago, producing the impressive Himalayas - a mountain range that almost completely blocks off India from the surrounding area, but also created one very large, culturally intriguing nation. India is one of the most culture-infused and religion-based sub-continents to exist, overflowing with colour and history, making it an incredibly interesting and eye-opening destination for any traveller. One thing you can definitely say is that there’s nothing boring about India! So what does India actually have to offer?

Indian history and nature are some of its main attractions, partly because it is among the oldest and most captivating civilizations in the world, which began in the Indus River Valley, home to the famous Indus River (one of the longest rivers in Asia). The water that makes up the Indus River generally comes from melting glaciers and natural springs from the mountains that surround it. Today, South Asia experiences an annual change

62 w ww.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

humid. For animal lovers who would enjoy of wind direction – famously known as spending their time searching for rare wild ‘monsoon’ season – which usually hosts animals like Tigers and Elephants, the enormous amounts of rain, causing drier months such as April, May and June irregular but promised floods. Although would be best. However, these are also this may sound daunting, monsoon the hottest months so best be sure you season occurs at a specific time of can handle the heat! For those who enjoy the year, so if you’re hoping to visit the a more physically-challenging holiday stunning sub-continent, it’s important to and adventure along the carefully choose when. way, monsoon season India is also home to should be avoided; amazing stretches For the sun-lovers out March or April time will of river, along with a there, the most rewarding generally be the best variety of landforms to time to take a trip to time of year for activities experience, from the India would be between such as hiking. Heat can deep tropical jungles October and February, also dwindle in India, to the soft sands of whilst the scorching Sun is especially in central Jaisalmer. Animallovers won’t be short present almost permanently regions. December and January are the winter of excitement in India months and, although as it’s also the only still warm in comparison to our little country to be the host of completely natural habitats for the Tiger and the Lion. island, temperatures can drop quite low, so you may still need to wrap up warm!

So, when is the right time to visit India?

India is one of the most diverse places This all depends on what in particular you to see in terms of its local culture and are looking for during your trip. For the day-to-day-life. It is home to people sun-lovers out there, the most rewarding from all different walks of life: the world’s time to take a trip to India would be richest and poorest residents along with between October and February, whilst having the third largest group of middle the scorching Sun is present almost class people on the Earth. It’s safe to permanently. Later months, between say, the population here is huge. A large February and May tend to be a lot more

“

”

amount of the Indian population is based in what we would view as dire living situations, often in staggering poverty, whilst the rest live in more well-off, urban areas that play more into a western attitude of comfort. So whether you’re interested in India’s ancient background or cutting edge of various technologies, there’s something for you!

Faith and religion are key to many lives in India, but the people don’t share just one. India is the home of many different religions and beliefs: from Muslim to Buddhist. It has one of the largest diversites of languages, religions and races and has become the birthplace of two of the four most common religions in the world. Before 300 AD, India was one of the only societies that welcomed mistreated religions with open arms, such as Christianity and Judaism and the significance of this act is apparent today. These religions, and life in general is celebrated here more than any other place on Earth. Indian festivals – approximately 300 a year – are among the most celebrated in the world, with many different celebrations for different times of the year. One of the most renowned Indian festivals is Diwali, otherwise known as the Festival

Ganesha statues

w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 6 3

Adobe Stock | Chatchai ©

Taj Mahal at sunrise, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

IN DIA & SRI LAN KA

Adobe Stock | paul prescott ©

of Lights. Diwali is an ancient Hindu festival that takes place in the Autumn for the northern hemisphere, or Spring for the southern hemisphere. Arguably the most important Hindu festival, Diwali signifies the victory of light over darkness, or in other words, good over evil. On Diwali night, people dress up in their best outfits, light up candles and lamps and take part in prayers, or puja – most commonly to Lakshmi – the Goddess of fertility and prosperity, and although this is an Indian festival it is celebrated all over the world. However, if this annual celebration doesn’t tickle your fancy there are various other Indian festivals you might enjoy: Holi, otherwise known as the Festival of Colours; Dusshera, which signifies the death of ‘the demon’; Ravana at the hands of Lord Rama; Krishna Janmashtami, the annual birthday celebration of Lord Krishna; and many many more.

In a lot of Asian countries and India in particular, food is not just food – it’s also an important part of their culture.

However, they have a huge diversity of food that tends to vary by state.

For example, Telugas and Rejasthanis tend to have super-spicy foods, Tamils have dosas and idlies, Gujrathis have mouth-watering thalis, Malayalis like their coconut-flavoured dishes while Bengalis

Elephant ride, Sri Lanka

64 www.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

have appetising sweets. What better way to get involved in the Indian culture than trying all of their famous foods? After all, you wouldn’t be experiencing India if you didn’t. The flavours that fill these foods spread further than just India – as do a fair amount of the celebrations that occur too – in particular over to the island of Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka, known formerly as Ceylon, is a tiny island nation south of India in the Indian Ocean with a history spanning over 3000 years. It has rugged landscape, filled with rainforest, diverse wildlife, rolling hills and endless beaches. Many of Sri Lanka’s neighbours have influenced the country’s culture, especially India. One of the joys of travelling in Sri Lanka, among the many that there are is the delicious, spicerich food with delicious aromas that fill the streets and exude out of homes.

Its cuisine often reflects its history as a maritime hub, with one of the most famous dishes, Kool, a seafood broth containing crab, fish, cuttlefish, prawns, and crayfish. Some of the staples of Sri Lankan cuisine are rice, coconut, and spices, most often served within, and as a side to curries.

The island is home to large groups of Sri Lankan and Indian Tamils, Moors, Burghers, Malays, Kaffirs and the

Sri Lanka

aboriginal Vedda - similar to India, the culture is defined by its diversity of ethnic groups, religions and languages. It also has a rich Buddhist heritage, with the first known Buddhist writings of Sri Lanka, the Pāli Canon, dating back to 29 BC. Sri Lanka is famed for its ancient Buddhist ruins, including the 5th-century citadel Sigiriya, with its palace and frescoes, and the sacred city of Anuradhapura, which is a wonderful place to explore should you visit here. This is the pleasant and sprawling capital city of the northern central province, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, defined by its ancient history and architecture.

With nearly 1600 km of palm fringed coastline and pristine beaches to enjoy, Sri Lanka is an ideal destination for sunbathers. However, like India, it’s best to carefully plan when and where to go in Sri Lanka on holiday. The Yala monsoon season is between May and August, bringing rain to the south and west coasts plus the Hill Country. The weather in the North and East is best at these times of

Adobe Stock | Dudarev Mikhail ©

IN DIA & SRI LAN KA

year, however when the Maha monsoon provides the traveller with idyllic, golden season hits between October to January, beaches, forests and waterfalls: an area the East, North and Ancient Cities are where you can walk in the footsteps kept very wet. The best of the southern of Buddha and enjoy the astoundingly beaches include Tangalla, Beruwala, beautiful views. The north and the Mirissa, Bentota and Unawatuna, but south region here provide two different for the travellers who wish to discover, perspectives of the Sri Lankan culture much of the east coast is secluded and and landscape. The undisturbed. Arugam northern portion, Bay and Uppuveli around the historic city beach are some of The Horton Plains, a National of Kandy, was home the most popular Park in the central highlands, to Sri Lanka’s last beaches here, whilst independent kingdom, covered by montane in the west is the which survived two grassland and cloud forest, Negambo lagoon, centuries of colonial where you will find World’s famed for lobster incursions before finally End - a sheer cliff, with a harvesting and with falling to the British in drop of about 4,000 feet beaches much-loved 1815. This region is looking over the Plains by the locals. still heavily influenced April and by its past, but the September here independent Sinhalese offer the best odds for good weather tradition lives on, encapsulated by music, countrywide, and high season is between dance, architecture, ancient relics and December and March, when the Hill festivals.

Country, plus west and south coast In contrast, the southern hill country beaches fill to capacity. The Hill Country holds a largely British character, as it’s

“

”

predominantly a product of the British colonial era, when tea was introduced to the island. The town of Nuwara Eliya provides the best base for visiting the Horton Plains, a National Park in the central highlands, covered by montane grassland and cloud forest, where you will find World’s End - a sheer cliff, with a drop of about 4,000 feet looking over the Plains. To the south, in Uva Province, a string of small towns and villages offer marvellous views and walks through the hills and tea plantations and get a feel for the local lifestyle and this wonderful country’s history.

There’s no reason to exclude India and Sri Lanka from your list of travel destinations. It has a plethora of beauty, activity, sights and taste sensations to offer, all the while providing an intriguing cultural shift for you to wrap your head around. Whether you’re into your food, physical activities, festivals or picturesque scenes, there’s something for everyone in this part of the world, and it’s certainly not one to miss! w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 6 5

TRIED AND TESTED

RESTAURANT REVIEW:

FOOD FOR

FRIENDS

We are very lucky to live in a country that offers a huge plethora of options for foodies. Inspired looks closer to home for this edition’s restaurant review, turning veggie for the day and spending lunch time at Food For Friends in sunny Brighton

O

n the corner of Prince Albert Street in the historic South Lanes, Food For Friends provides an ideal place for exactly what it says on the tin: a meal out with friends. The glass encased, bistro-feel interior gives a feeling of relaxed sophistication; laid back and quiet with a pinch of class and air of elegance.

I sat down with my partner and was given a full menu along with a lunch set menu and offered complimentary filtered water for the table. I had chosen this restaurant for a review this month because it was something a bit different to the usual: a vegetarian restaurant. In Brighton, this is now a well-versed idea for passers by and locals have become used to the eclectic mix of different and exotic flavours they come across around each corner of the South and North Lanes. However, ashamedly, I am one of those who tends to – very much accidentally – stick to what I know. Not this time. Food For Friends seemed an obvious choice; it was voted Best Restaurant at the Brighton and Hove Foodie Awards in 2012, and is in the Good Food Guide 2015, plus has many a good review on and offline. That’s a 66 w ww.inspir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

lot to live up to. Their ethos is that they use the freshest and finest ingredients to really appeal to not just the vegetarian but simply all food-lovers, and I am certainly the latter, but with a healthy love of veg!

As it was a sunny summer’s day, I decided to go for a cocktail (nonalcoholic), so tried the Lemon and Apple Zinger, which was beautifully refreshing and full of flavour. I ended up having two more! The cocktails here are fairly priced and are adapted to suit the season, so you should always find something to suit the mood and weather. We were then informed that the soup of the day was a broth-like concoction with courgette, tomato and mushroom and, even as I looked down the list of delicious sounding starters, I couldn’t get the idea of that soup out of my head. So, I went ahead and ordered it, whilst my partner chose the Sweet Tofu Pockets, stuffed with stir-fried shiitake

“

mushrooms, spring onions and brown rice with a hot Gochujang pepper sauce (vegan and gluten free). I had already found out that I wasn’t the biggest fan of tofu, but my partner clearly was at this point, and we both very much got onto a good start!

For the main event, I opted for the Mushroom ThreeWays dish, which was recommended to me by our very accommodating waiter. He mentioned that this dish had replaced one of their very popular dishes and was new on the menu, so as the mushroom-lover that I am, I thought it best to give it a go. My partner chose the Double Baked Soufflé, which was topped with grilled goat’s cheese and served with honey roasted vegetables, Jerusalem artichoke purée, wilted cavolo nero and basil pesto. I must say, when both of our mains made their

The atmosphere and food made for, I think, a perfect place to bring, as the name suggests, a friend or the whole family

”

TRIED AND TESTED

ope pub CSA Com is a ad

way to the table, a pang of jealousy raged through me at the sight of the extremely appealing looking soufflé, but my meal was in fact delicious, especially given that it was very simply a plate of mushrooms.

It was all deliciously flavoured, and each mouthful had something different to it. The Portobello mushrooms were grilled and marinated in what tasted like a lot of garlic and herbs, I had Shimeji fricassee and pickled wild mushrooms too, all alongside cauliflower puree and a rosemary potato gratin.

At this point, I could hardly even think of putting any more food in my mouth; I was extremely full. So, on this occasion (rare as it is), I decided not to have a pudding, but my partner did and, of course he just had to go for the most indulgent and rich one on the menu – I felt that pinch of jealousy return as soon as it was ordered.

The Molten Chocolate pudding was cooked perfectly, melting in the middle with the wonderfully complementing, sweet but bitter salted caramel sauce, vanilla ice cream and crushed pistachios.

I had to try some and I’m very glad I did.

It was gooey, filled with different flavours, rich and heavy but light all at the same time. I may go back just for this dessert.

We left feeling amply full and satisfied that we had experienced something quite unique. The atmosphere and food made for, I think, a perfect place to bring, as the name suggests, a friend, or the whole family. The flavours are a talking point, the aesthetics thoroughly impressive, the service above par and the setting ideal - set just a few roads up from the wonderful Brighton beach and close to the famous pier. There were customers here that had clearly spent many an hour simply enjoying the environment, watching the world go by through the curved windows and, I’m sure, feeling treated as friendly company. I encourage anyone visiting this vibrant city to take the time to visit Food For Friends and be inspired.

17-18 Prince Albert St, Brighton BN1 1HF 01273 202310 www.foodforfriends.com w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 67

La Coupee - Sark

ESSENTIAL RECIPES

EVERYDAY

SEAFOOD In Everyday Seafood, top chef Nathan Outlaw offers brand-new recipes for all kinds of fish and shellfish.

Good-quality fresh seafood is now within the reach of most people - both economically and in terms of easy availability. Plus it’s incredibly healthy and fast to cook

LOBSTER RISOTTO BALLS, BASIL AND ORANGE MAYONNAISE This is my version of the Sicilian classic arancini. It’s a great recipe and a real crowd pleaser. At my first restaurant, I cooked a lobster risotto flavoured with orange, basil and spring onions, which became a signature dish. I’ve used the same combination here because it works so well.

Makes about 20; serves 10 as a starter 2 live lobsters, about 800g each 1 litre vegetable stock 250g carnaroli rice 1 bunch of spring onions, trimmed and finely sliced 100g Parmesan, freshly grated Finely grated zest of 1 orange 30 basil leaves, finely sliced 1 medium egg, beaten 150g plain flour 500g dried breadcrumbs Sunflower oil for cooking Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper For the basil and orange mayonnaise 2 egg yolks Finely grated zest of 1 orange 30ml white wine vinegar 450ml light olive oil 4 spring onions, trimmed and sliced 20 basil leaves, finely sliced 68 www.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

ESSENTIAL RECIPES

Put the lobsters in the freezer 30 minutes before cooking to sedate them.

Bring a large pan of well-salted salted water to the boil. To kill the lobsters instantly, place them on a board and insert the tip of a strong, sharp knife firmly into the cross on the back of the head, then plunge the lobsters into the boiling water. Bring back to the boil and cook for 8 minutes.

Remove the lobsters from the pan to a tray and leave until cool enough to handle. Twist and pull the claws, legs and head away from the tails. Put the heads into a pan with the vegetable stock. Crack the claws and extract the meat. Using scissors, cut open the tail shell along its length. Pull the shell apart and remove the tail meat in one piece. Cut this meat in half lengthways and remove the dark intestinal tract. Cut the tail and claw meat into small pieces, put into a bowl, cover and refrigerate.

For the lobster balls, bring the stock (and lobster heads), to the boil. Add the rice with a pinch of salt and bring back to the boil. Lower the heat and simmer until the rice has absorbed all the stock. Take off the heat and discard the heads. Stir in the spring onions, Parmesan, orange zest and some pepper. Spread the rice out on a tray and cool in the fridge.

Meanwhile, make the mayonnaise. Put the egg yolks, orange zest and wine vinegar into a blender or food processor and blend for 30 seconds then, with the motor running, slowly add the olive oil in a steady stream.

If it gets too thick, add 1 tsp water, then continue.

Transfer to a bowl, stir in the spring onions, basil and salt and pepper to taste; set aside.

Once the rice is cold, stir in the chopped basil and lobster meat. Break off pieces and roll into balls, roughly the size of a golf ball. In a bowl, mix the beaten egg and flour together with some salt and pepper until smoothly combined. Place the breadcrumbs on a tray. Heat the oil in a deep-fat fryer or other suitable deep, heavy pan to 160°C. Pass the lobster balls through the egg mix and then into the breadcrumbs, turning to coat all over. Deep-fry in the hot oil, in batches if necessary, for about 2 minutes until crisp and golden. Drain on kitchen paper and season with salt. Serve hot or cold, with the mayonnaise on the side. w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 6 9

ESSENTIAL RECIPES

CRAB WITH TOMATOES, CHILLI, GREEN PEPPERCORNS AND HERBS On a trip to Singapore I became a little obsessed with crab dishes and set about recreating the exciting street food I had eaten. The crabs we have in the UK are different to those in Asia, which are smaller and have softer shells. Still, it’s easy enough to flavour our crab in the same way and cook it in a similar fashion. You need plenty of bread and beer with this scrumptious spicy dish.

Serves 6 3 live brown crabs, about 1.5kg each For the sauce 100ml olive oil 3 white onions, peeled and chopped 2 bunches of spring onions, sliced, white and green parts separated 6 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped 2 green chillies, sliced (seeds left in) 14 ripe plum tomatoes, chopped 150ml verjus 600ml white wine 2 tbsp green peppercorns 2 tbsp chopped tarragon 2 tbsp chopped chives 3 tbsp chopped parsley Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 70 w ww.ins pi r e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

ESSENTIAL RECIPES

To make the sauce, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat.

When hot, add the onions, white spring onions, garlic and chillies and cook for 4–5 minutes until the onions are soft and starting to colour. Add the tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4–5 minutes.

Add the verjus and cook for a further 5 minutes, then pour in the wine and let it bubble until reduced by half. Add the green peppercorns and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another couple of minutes, then remove from the heat and set aside.

To cook the crabs, bring a very large pan of very salty water (30g salt to 1 litre water) to the boil. When it is almost boiling, lay each crab on its back on a board. Lift the flap near the bottom and plunge a large cook’s knife into the point underneath to kill the crab instantly.

Immediately plunge the crabs into the boiling water and cook for 12 minutes.

Lift the cooked crabs out onto a large tray and leave until cool enough to handle. Hold the crab in both hands and use your thumbs to push the body up and out of the hard top shell. Remove the dead man’s fingers, stomach sac and hard membranes from the body shell.

Now, cut the body in half and then into quarters. Remove the claws and crack them.

To finish the dish, heat the sauce and add the green spring onions and chopped herbs. When the sauce comes to a simmer, taste for seasoning and adjust as necessary. Add the crab, give it a gentle stir and allow to warm through for a couple of minutes.

To serve, carefully tip the contents of the pan into a large warmed serving dish.

Place in the centre of the table with finger bowls, spoons, beer and bread. w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 7 1

ESSENTIAL RECIPES

STUFFED SQUID, RED PEPPERS, CHICKPEAS, OLIVES AND SHERRY This is a great way to cook those medium or slightly larger squid, which are perfect for a single portion filled with a tasty stuffing. The stuffing in this recipe isn’t supposed to all stay inside the squid pouches; some of it will ooze out to create a delicious sauce. I’d suggest serving this dish with a simple rocket salad, dressed with a little balsamic vinegar and olive oil.

Serves 4 4 medium squid, bodies 20–25cm long, cleaned and tentacles reserved Olive oil for cooking and to drizzle 2 shallots, peeled and finely chopped 3 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped 2 red peppers, peeled, cored, deseeded and diced 4 ripe plum tomatoes, cored and each cut into 6 pieces 100g pitted black olives, quartered 16 basil leaves, finely sliced 600ml dry sherry 100g unsalted butter 400g tin chickpeas, drained and rinsed Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preheat your oven to 200°C/Fan 185°C/Gas 6.

Place a sauté pan over a medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. When hot, add the shallots, garlic and red peppers and sweat for 5 minutes. Add the chopped tomatoes and olives and cook for a further 5 minutes until the tomatoes begin to collapse.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add the chickpeas and cook for a further 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to cool.

Lay the cleaned squid pouches on a baking tray and season all over with salt and pepper. Season the tentacles too, but set these aside on a plate.

When the stuffing mixture is cool, stir through most of the shredded basil. Now, using a spoon, fill each squid pouch with as much stuffing as it will take. If there is any stuffing mixture left, add that to the tray too.

Pour the sherry over the stuffed squid. Bake for 15–20 minutes, basting with the mixture every 5 minutes until cooked, and adding the tentacles to the tray for the final 5 minutes.

Place a stuffed squid pouch on each warmed plate with the tentacles alongside and spoon on some of the sauce. Scatter over the remaining sliced basil, add a drizzle of olive oil and serve straight away.

Nathan Outlaw’s Everyday Seafood (Quadrille £20) Photography: David Loftus 72 www.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 7 3

KITCHEN GOODIES

KCOOK The Kenwood kCook is a one pot cooking solution that chops, stirs, cooks and steams meals and ingredients at the push of a button. £329.99. kenwoodworld.com/uk

ENAMEL SAUCEPAN Brighten up your kitchen hobs with this beautiful enamel saucepan by Mini Moderns.

This gorgeous, retro style saucepan is highly functional and perfect for bringing a burst of colour to your kitchen space. £23.95. brewershome.co.uk

UTENSIL SET This six-piece utensil set comes with a rotating storage stand that’s ideal for placement on your kitchen worktop for easy tool selection. £55.00. currys.co.uk

SLOW JUICER The Smeg SJF01 Slow Juicer features unique cold extraction Slow Squeezing TechnologyTM (SST) to carefully preserve the cells within the fruit or vegetables. £449.99. smeguk.com

TEA TOWELS These luxury tea towels have a lovely soft blue colour finished with a contemporary bumblebee print. By purchasing these you are helping fund the excellent work of the Bumblebee Conservation Trust. £9.50. www.pastellane.co.uk 74 w ww.inspir e d tr a ve lm a g.co.u k

BLUETOOTH SPEAKER The Gear4’s cup shaped Espresso Bluetooth speaker blends discretely in to kitchen interiors. Unlike many other small speakers, the Espresso delivers an enhanced bass tone that creates a richer sound for the year’s biggest music hits. £19.99. amazon.co.uk

KITCHEN GOODIES

CORAVIN MODEL TWO ELITE COOK 4 ME The Cook4me makes it easy to produce delectable homemade dishes by guiding you step by step through every recipe in its pre-programmed library of 50 recipes. Simply pop your ingredients inside and leave the meal to prepare itself.£249.99. lakeland.co.uk

The revolutionary Wine System that allows users to pour wine without removing the cork. £279. coravin.co.uk

Bring YOUR KITCHEN TO Life We bring you some fresh ideas for your kitchen

ICE CREAM MAKER The Chef’n Sweet Spot consists of a wide but shallow non-stick dish that is so cold it enables you to freeze and blend your own ice cream at the table – ideal for a bit of fun at a family gathering or dinner party. £39.99. lakeland.co.uk

ORLA KIELY BIN

SCION MR FOX MUG Liven up your kitchen cupboards with a bright and vibrant mug featuring the popular Mr Fox motif in a duck egg and orange colourway. £10. brewershome.co.uk

Featuring Irish designer Orla Kiely’s famous ‘stem’ design, Binopolis’ beautiful Brabantia 30-litre Retro bin is perfect for contemporary and vintage interiors. £125. binopolis.com w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 7 5

Cruising in 2016

BRINGING the Outside, INSIDE Inspired has taken some top interior design tips from Brewers Home, bringing you all the best ways of incorporating the outdoors indoors Harlequin, Nalina Double Duvet, from £85

The summer months bring with them a vast array of new life in nature – as well as the sun – so spending more time outdoors during this time of year is what we enjoy most. However, we all know that the British weather can’t be depended upon, although this doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy what Mother Nature brings whilst indoors. In this issue, Inspired provides some top picks for your home, looking at one of the newest interiors trends for 2016/17, bringing the outside in with floral motifs, nature-inspired designs and bright sunset inspired colours; perfect for your living space.

Wallpaper is a brilliant way of bringing your living room, hallway, dining room or even bedroom to life. Colours and dreamy patterns produce a

Freshen up your home with these bright floral designs

76 www.inspir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

Sanderson, Freya Wallpaper, £41 per roll

relaxing atmosphere in the home, whilst designs that make you think of the outdoors will leave you feeling like it’s summer all year round.

BEDROOM INSPIRATIONS

The bedroom is likely to be the room you spend most time relaxing in; it’s your retreat. So, the decoration must reflect that. The bed is the main event here and a beautiful quilt and pillow design will act as a focal point, hopefully making you smile as soon as you walk in.

Harlequin bedding sets from Brewers Home provide wonderful bright, bold floral motifs alongside often neutral, calming tones so you can fall asleep in luxury, surrounded by flowers. No bedroom space is complete without a lovely co-ordinating cushion and throw to tie in all aspects of the scheme also.

Equally, the Freya design by Sanderson turns the bedroom walls into a modern floral

Cruising in 2016 Maldives

Designers Guild Wallpaper, Summer Palace, Grape, £213 per roll

damask with a delicate textural detail in the ground. Using soft pastel hues is a great way of bringing lots of colours together without clashing, whilst still holding the calm atmosphere you aim for.

LIVING ROOM INSPIRATION

Here you can really go to town with matching furniture with accessories, wallpaper with curtains, even rugs and lighting fixtures. Inspired recommends using wallpaper to fit with the ‘outside inside’ theme – you can get some amazing colours and designs either to cover all the walls surrounding your main sofa suite or simply use a feature wall. Large scale floral cushions add to the feeling of new life blossoming and brings a bold focal point to the room, especially if colour-matches with the walls or curtains.

Designers Guild offer a range

Sanderson Fabric, Tree Tops, £34 per metre

of high quality wallpaper in a variety of designs to suit this theme and to suit all tastes.

We especially love the Summer Palace wallpaper in the Grape colourway (available at Brewers Home). Its hand painted effect delicate wisteria flowers with pretty white to purple dip dye background would create a perfect garden-like atmosphere in a living room as a feature wall, as shown here surrounding a large window, patio doors or simply behind a traditional armchair or sofa.

Ferns, plants and tree-like designs are top of the list at the moment in the interior design world, naturally coloured with greens, blues and yellows to suit the subject. The Pippin wallpaper by Sanderson makes for a mixture of calming tones to be welcomed into the room w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 7 7

Cruising in 2016

Sanderson Wallpaper, Tree Tops, £41 per roll

Albany Wallpaper, Floral Wood Panelling Pink, £17.99 per roll

with. Alternatively, outdoors inspired blinds or curtains are ideal for a more subtle look alongside a plain painted wall and complementary furniture. For example the Japanese inspired, bold contemporary tree print roller blinds, also

by Sanderson, which add a hint of the oriental to the room also.

BATHROOM INSPIRATION

Most would say they wouldn’t wallpaper their bathroom, but why not? Of course, we don’t recommend placing any wallpaper in direct contact with wet areas, but in coordination with a splash back or with tile, wallpaper can add something different to your bathroom space.

Faux effect designs can make the room feel as though you’re in a chalet; in a wood hut; in a forest; or by the sea. This floral wood panelling wallpaper by Albany, laced with rose flower motifs in pink brings an air of elegance to – let’s face it – an often fairly inelegant room. www.brewershome.co.uk 78 w ww.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

Sanderson Wallpaper, Pippin, £41 per roll

w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 7 9

LUM SUSPENSION LIGHT £834 WWW.KAIA.AT

TEAL ARABESQUE RUG FROM £75 WWW.LANDOFRUGS.COM

TRIAN FLOOR MOOD

£60 PE

WWW.M

‘SHAPE’ UP YOUR HOME MAORI GOROKA GRAFITO TILES £29.16 PER M² £1.19 EA WWW.TILEGIANT.CO.UK

80 OCEAN VIEW

SOLITAIRE COFFEE TABLE £349 WWW.ATKINANDTHYME.CO.UK

HEXAGONAL SILVER MIRRORED TILES £29.99 PER BOX WWW.MY-FURNITURE.CO.UK

SCION VECTOR MIST WALLPAPER £49 PER ROLL WWW.BREWERSHOME.CO.UK

LAMPSHADE GEOMETRIC CASAS DESIGN IN BLACK £65 WWW.FURNISH.CO.UK

GEOMETRIC PLANT POUCH £17.23 WWW.CRANMORE HOME.COM.AU TRIANGLES VINYL FLOORING, MODULEO MOODS COLLECTION £60 PER SQ M WWW.MODULEO.CO.UK

YELLOW & REDS PATTERNED PRISM CUSHION PILLOW £9.56 WWW.ROOI.COM

LVER TILES BOX O.UK

WALLACE SEWELL CUSHION, £65 LINDSEY LANG MUG, £9.99 LTMUSEUMSHOP.CO.UK

HONG KONG YELLOW/ GREY RUG, FROM £49.99 WWW.MODERNRUGS.CO.UK

NEEDLE PENDANT, £66 WWW.DAR LIGHTING.CO.UK

HANGZHOU CARVED MING 1 PANEL ROOM DIVIDER £1,599.99 WWW.WAYFAIR.CO.UK

GEO SIDE TABLE £52.99 WWW. WAYFAIR. CO.UK OCEAN VIEW 81

82 www.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

TEST DRIVE

Inspired Travel’s Motoring Correspondent Simon Skinner takes to the wheel of the latest Clubman: in association with Vines of Gatwick BMW w w w . i n spi r edtr avelmag . co . uk 83

MOTORING

So the team at Vines have kindly pulled up at Life Media Group Towers with a shiny-new MINI Clubman. This particular model is the Diesel Cooper and it’s been a car that I’ve been keen to drive for some time.

By all accounts, if you’re going to try a new MINI, the Cooper D is a good shout as it’s spacious (they’re not so mini now), really comfortable and extremely reasonably priced when compared to similar hatches and other smaller cars that are currently on the market.

I say that because I believe that this is a car that proposes a real alternative to ‘regular’ hatchbacks and is the biggest MINI ever built! The Clubman Cooper D sits in the lower-to-mid range of the current MINI line up, with the 84 w ww.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

“

in the Clubman Cooper D produces next step taking you to the Cooper 150bhp giving you a 0-62mph in 8.6 S, which is clearly a sportier version. seconds, but if I’m honest, being this Upwards from there, you’ll see the SD low to the ground, and ALL4 (4 wheel you really feel like it drive) versions.

This is a serious takes half that time.

Mine though, for It really moves, and the week at least, is motor car for with the option of the greenest of the people who LOVE stepping into sports set, offering up an mode, or go-kart alleged near 70mpg driving. Really mode as is the term and B-rated for Co2 practical, spacious, which springs up emissions – which is comfortable, quick on the display, the nice. whole car changes Green credentials and well built its personality and aside though, and they you get the feeling are a serious reason for that it wants to play. considering this particular model, you So play we did! A week of driving wouldn’t think for a minute that you’re this car was just about as much fun not in a sportier version, or indeed a car as I’ve had in any car for a very long with a bigger engine. The 2 litre engine

”

MOTORING

time. Some readers of Inspired Travel might know the marsh road that runs from Herstmonceux, across the A259 at Pevensey, past the Star at Normans Bay and onto Bexhill. Well, it has to be said that this must be one of the finest routes in Sussex for those who enjoy pursuits of the four-wheeled variety. Blasting the entire way in the appropriately named go-kart mode on a beautifully sunny afternoon for a meeting at the equally beautiful De La Warr Pavilion, the Clubman Cooper D delivered me to the venue with a HUGE smile on my face and with my heartbeat raised a good few BPM. The handling of the car is simply breathtaking, with a wheel in each corner, (a term borrowed from my father-in-law) a pounding engine and

possibly the tightest gearbox known to the human race.

Sometimes when review cars are collected it’s easy to hand over the keys and to not look back. With the MINI however, the feeling was more akin to that of saying goodbye to a newly made friend at the end of a childhood holiday. You know that you’re likely to have fun with them again one day, but it won’t happen for a while.

Thankfully, its replacement was the Range Rover Vogue SE, which we’ll cover in the next issue.

Getting back to the hatchback debate, I decided to test the space in the back of the car for good measure.

It’s a little known fact that on occasion, I am known to play the drum kit and I am the owner of a gem of a Ludwig kit w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 85

MOTORING

from 1978 that looks and sounds like only a Ludwig kit from 1978 can. It just so happened that, during my week with the MINI, I had reason to transport said Ludwig kit from 1978 to a music venue for an evening of 90s dance classics.

After (auto) opening the double/barn doors and flattening the rear seats, the whole thing sat in the back with room to spare!

There’s oodles of room in there

and it’s really quite deceptive for what appears to be a small car at first glance with 4.25m total length. The rear space making up a considerable percentage of that.

I have to be honest, this car has taken me by complete surprise. I’ve always looked at MINI’s as being a bit of a joke; a lot like the (newer) VW Beetles, and certainly quite a feminine choice. This, coupled with a host of

horror stories about the earlier models that were produced after the ‘new look’ was announced by BMW way back when, was enough to turn me off completely. How wrong I have been though; this is a serious motor car for people who LOVE driving. Really practical, spacious, comfortable, quick and well built.

Maybe I should call Volkswagen to see if I can try the Beetle?

Thank you for the loan, Vines BMW of Gatwick, it’s been a great week and I’m already looking forward to next time.

• Model: MINI Cooper D Clubman • Price: From £22,245 • Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl diesel • Power: 148bhp

• Transmission: Six-speed manual, front-wheel drive • 0-62mph/top speed:

8.6s/132mph • Economy/CO2: 68.9mpg/109g/km www.vinesofgatwickbmw.co.uk

86 www.ins pir e d tr a ve lma g.co.u k

w w w . i n spi r edtr a velmag . co . uk 87

Stade Open Space, Hastings Old Town 11am - 6pm

music until 7pm

except assist dogs

Tickets ÂŁ1 in advance from the Tourist Information Centre, ÂŁ2 on the gate, children free. Tickets also available for Super Ska Night and Liane Carroll Jazz Breakfast.

www.hastingsfestivals.co.uk