OCEAN VIEW Interiors, Lifestyle, Food, Sailing, Cruising and so much more...
Issue 11 Volume 1 2014
It’s Time To Enjoy An Ocean View
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Welcome
Isn’t it interesting how we all look for different things in a holiday, and how our tastes change? When I was younger, I was very much a city breaks and adventure holidays kind of girl, but the more time goes on, the more I understand the lure of going somewhere remote but beautiful to ‘get away from it all’. I suppose for me, the ideal holiday would be the combination of both new experiences to explore and some peace and quiet in lovely surroundings. Perhaps that’s why I was so fascinated by this issue’s explorations of The Falkland Islands and Azores, as these remote getaways are miles and miles from the daily grind but offer a wealth of new adventures for any curious travelers. From whale and penguin encounters to rugged Jeep tours and hiking expeditions, there’s certainly no chance of being bored. But the ultimate luxury holiday must be the private villa. The freedom to choose your destination, facilities, your company, your food and exactly when you do what you want, uninterrupted and with no competition for the sun loungers, seems like bliss! If relaxation is what you desire from your holiday, there’s no better way to ensure your sun, sea and slumber will not be interrupted by a stag or hen party - unless it’s yours, of course, in which case villas are ideal for larger groups, saving money and ensuring you’ll all be together with a pool to yourselves. Perfect! As always, we have a mix of shopping, competitions, books and recipes for you to dip into, but don’t let me keep you any longer - enjoy your Ocean View!
Destination: Massachuessets page 14
Laura Knight Editor OCEAN VIEW 3
We’re laid-back 4 OCEAN VIEW
We’re upbeat
W
We’re Egypt
See you by the Red Sea SHARM EL SHEIKH - HURGHADA www.egypt.travel
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ISSUE 11, Volume 1 2014
Contents
OCEAN VIEW Interiors, Lifestyle, Food, Sailing, Cruising and so much more...
Issue 11 Volume 1 2014
FREE
It’S tIme to enjoy An oCeAn VIew
OCEAN VIEW 5
Cover Image: Falkland Islands www.falklandislands.com ©
Ocean View Magazine Managing Director/Publisher: Lee Mansfield lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk Commercial Director: Simon Skinner simon@lifemediagroup.co.uk Operations Director Clare Fermor clare@lifemediagroup.co.uk Advertising Sales Lottie Dowdeswell lottie@oceanviewuk.co.uk Editor: Zoe Thomas zoe@lifemediagroup.co.uk Design: Harriet Weston harriet@lifemediagroup.co.uk Accounts: Amelia Wellings: amelia@lifemediagroup.co.uk Subscriptions: Linda Grace linda@lifemediagroup.co.uk Published by: LMG SE LTD Park View House 19 The Avenue, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 3YD 01323 411601 Printed by: Gemini Press Unit A1 Dolphin Way, Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex, BN43 6NZ 01273 464884 All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Ocean View Magazine do not necessarily represent the view of Life Media Group LTD. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publishers of Ocean View Magazine assume no reponsibilty for any damage, loss or injury arising from the participation in any offers, competitions or advertisment contained within Ocean View Magazine. All prices featured in Ocean View Magazine are correct at the time of going to press. Copyright Life Media Group 2014 ©
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6. 12. 14. 25. 31. 36. 38. 44. 48. 54. 58.
Azores: Dive in to some of the amazing adventures this archipelago has to offer Spending It: We have chosen a selection of stylish, practical, lightweight, sturdy and innovative luggage solutions for all your travel needs Destination: Massachussets: Ocean View found out, Massachussets has a little of the best of everything in the USA! Recipes: Le Pain Quotidien Cookbook reveals all the tricks of the artisan baker and home chef RSPB: “Are you Giving Nature a Home this spring?” Luxury Villas: Experience the bliss of YOUR perfect holiday with a private villa: Falklands: You’re sure to experience the delightfully unexpected in the Falkland Islands! Weekend Breaks - Devon: Spend a weekend in Devon and you may just feel like you’re a lot further away! Dubai: Discover Dubai’s shimmering cityscape from the water Motoring: Ocean View’s Motoring Editor, Simon Skinner tests out the new Jaguar XJ PORTFOLIO SWB Books Recommendations: offering you the cream from the latest life style relevant titles at the very best prices
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Associacao de Turismo dos Acores Š
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Action-Packed Azores
Thought by some to be the tips of the lost continent of Atlantis, the Azores is a truly unspoilt paradise. But before you lose yourself to the tranquillity, dive in to some of the amazing adventures this archipelago has to offer
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Azores
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Associacao de Turismo dos Acores ©
S
traddling the mid-Atlantic ridge around 950 miles west of Lisbon lies the stunning Azores archipelago. Often described as the tips of the lost continent of Atlantis, the islands maintain an Old World charm that is difficult to find almost anywhere else in Europe. Composed of nine volcanic islands situated in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, this Portuguese archipelago is one of the few unspoilt paradises on the planet. Just off the pristine beaches where you’ll be tempted to spend most of your visit, the Azores Archipelago is in fact one of the premier whale and dolphin watching sites in the world, and the subject of films by the BBC and National Geographic. You can join Azores Choice on one of their specialist whale and dolphin watching holidays. “When out at sea the species we most frequently see are sperm and pilot whales, beaked whales and false killer whales, together with bottlenose, common, spotted, Risso’s and striped dolphin,” say the organisers. “In recent years, we have also sighted blue, fin, sei, minke and humpback whales off the islands’ shores. “These elusive mammals are spotted by the ‘vigia’, a lookout on the coast. Using powerful binoculars, he guides our boats from the shore to their location.This traditional system works well and was used for many years when the Azorean people hunted the whales. Some of our boats also use an onboard hydrophone (underwater microphone) to find the cetaceans, and when at sea, they rarely go more than 10 miles from land. The boat skippers are keen to see them and will point them out to you, identify the species and give you time to marvel at the spectacle and grab some fantastic photos too - if you’re quick!” Undoubtedly one of the most common experiences people dream of having in their lives is to swim with dolphins, and with Azores Choice, this need not remain a dream. Rather than captive cetaceans in a pool, their experience allows you to swim with wild dolphins, in the freedom
of the Atlantic. “This is a true wild dolphin experience and undoubtedly the highlight of many of our client’s holidays. With 25% of the world’s known cetacean species and the largest variety of dolphin species worldwide, this has to be the ultimate swimming with dolphins destination. There are 8 species around the Azores and the pods are usually large, consisting of between 50 and 200 individuals. Super pods of up to 1000 have been sighted though! “Some species are more curious and exuberant than others leaping out of the sea and swimming close to clients beneath the water. A glance from a dolphin is an unusual, memorable, some say even spiritual experience. They are intelligent, highly organised and present no danger to humans and the symphony of communication sounds you’ll hear beneath the water is extraordinary.” Whether you’re out for close encounters with dolphins or interested in other undersea creatures, the warm Gulf Stream and the Azores’ deep inshore waters have helped create a rich and spectacular marine life superb for any dive enthusiast. Azores Choice offer everything from individual
“Some species are more curious and exuberant than others leaping out of the sea and swimming close to clients beneath the water. A glance from a dolphin is an unusual, memorable, some say even spiritual experience”
OPPOSITE: Dolphins in Azores ABOVE: Faial island
Associacao de Turismo dos Acores Š
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TAILOR-MADE HOLIDAYS FROM THE EXPERTS
YOUR HOLIDAY. YOUR ADVENTURE.
t.017687 75672
DISCOVER THE
AZORES Described as the tips of the lost continent of Atlantis, the Azores maintain an ‘old world’ charm that is difficult to find anywhere else in Europe. We offer the widest range of tailor made holidays to the Azores combining unique accommodation, a wealth of exciting activities and the best sightseeing across the entire archipelago.
ACCOMMODATION
9 BEAUTIFUL ISLANDS TO CHOOSE FROM Situated in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, 950 miles west of Lisbon, the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores is one of the few unspoilt paradises on the planet.
ACTIVITIES
Something for everyone
A windmill overlooking the sea, a 16th century fortress hotel, or perhaps a quaint Azorean cottage by the sea? We feature over 140 unique properties on our website. Visit www.azoreschoice.com for plenty of inspiration.
WALKING HOLIDAYS
Whale watching to canyoning With a mild climate, miles of unspoilt coastline and an abundance of sealife, the Azores archipelago is a wondrous place for enjoying a wide range of activities at sea. On land, tour the islands by jeep, go mountain biking and horse riding or try your hand at canyoning.
Whale watching holidays from £868pp
Nature’s paradise The Azores offers some of the loveliest walking in Europe. With nine diverse islands to choose from there are plenty of opportunities to get off the beaten track. Climb volcanic peaks, stroll dramatic coastal paths, explore magical crater lakes and take haven in one of the many secluded lagoons.
Walking holidays from £839pp
FAMILY HOLIDAYS The Azores make a perfect holiday destination for families who are looking for a shared active holiday experience. Stunning scenery, fascinating sea life and a wealth of activities that can all be pre-arranged by us.
Family holidays from £2999 for family of 4
Pick and choose islands, activities and accommodation to create your very own Azores experience.
...CREATE YOUR
ADVENTURE JOIN US ON
f t
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BROCHURE REQUEST t.017687 75672 www.azoreschoice.com
Julio Marques. ©
Angra do Heroismo, Terceira island
dives to full diving holidays around four of the Azores’ most specatcular islands - Faial, Graciosa, São Miguel and Pico. The exotic species found here include tuna, billfish, the charismatic dusky grouper fish, tope, hammerhead, mako, manta ray and everyone’s favourite - the loggerhead turtle! As well as an abundance of colourful smaller fish and crustaceans, you might even come across even more playful dolphins offshore. The islands offer unique diving experiences for the qualified diver, and dive sites are varied from offshore reefs and magical volcanic caves to drop-offs, impressive arches and flat seabed. Most dives rarely go deeper than 15m and average sea temperatures are 17-22°C. There’s also no limit to the breathtaking adventures available to you on dry land – although “dry” in this case is subjective! Abseil down waterfalls, jump into pools and slide down water chutes: canyoning is fast growing in popularity and unknown to most visitors, three of Azores islands have excellent canyoning trips. Flores offers the greatest diversity of routes from steep drops to easy routes. São Jorge has harder routes which are more difficult to reach as most of
them are only accessible by boat. While São Miguel’s routes are mainly in the interior of the island and are less steep. If you’d rather take a more leisurely pace and allow the beauty of Azores to come to you, wildlife watching is another incredible highlight of this exceptionally diverse and beautiful environment. With close to 400 species sighted, the Azores offer a stunning backdrop to some great birdwatching. For many the main draw of the region is a sighting of the endemic Azores Bullfinch found in a small area of Sao Miguel and one of Europe’s rarest birds. But the Azores are also home to the largest numbers of Cory’s Shearwater and Roseate Tern in the world and you’ll not want to miss the Atlantic Canary (an exclusive species from Macaronesia), several subspecies of the Common Chaffinch, the Sao Miguel Goldcrest and the Azores Woodpigeon. Then, of course, if you visit in October you’ll be in the undisputed rarity hotspot of the Western Palearctic with a wealth of America vagrants on offer from shorebirds and wildfowl to wood-warblers and vireos. Azores Choice’s birdwatching tours vary from a week long guided holiday visiting
several islands to day trips out on foot, or why not take a kayak or boat-based trip where you’ll see a combination of marine birds and cetaceans? Whatever you do during your trip to the Azores, don’t stay still. Explore, enjoy and make the most of the unique wonders of this beautiful place. Take advantage of the interisland flights and ferries to expand your adventures and discover more of the Azores Archipelago. With excellent transport connections, island hopping could not be easier! Multi island experiences simply allow you to get the most from your trip to the Azores. Within the archipelago of 9 islands there is huge variety, not only in geology and geography but in history, culture and tradition too. From the waterfalls on Flores, the recent volcano on Faial, the abandoned villages on Sáo Jorge, the running with the bulls on Terceira to the splendid crater of Sete Cidades on Sáo Miguel there are a seemingly endless number of natural and cultural wonders to captivate your imagination. Interisland flights and ferries run between the islands throughout the year and are very reasonably priced. OCEAN VIEW 13
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Carry In Style
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The Essence of America If we asked you to name an American state, Massachusetts would probably not be the first to spring to mind. However, as we found out, it has a little of the best of everything in the USA!
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Year round, Massachusetts offers spectacular sights and plenty to do. Steeped in history, this New England state offers everything you might want in an American holiday… and a few things you might not expect! Boston is the gateway to Massachusetts and New England, offering a choice of direct air services from London Heathrow. For example, Boston in particular is famous for its cultural highlights but Massachusetts also offers miles of stunning beaches and diverse wildlife. Historically, the Pilgrim Fathers arrived by sea and landed in Plymouth (that’s Plymouth, Massachusetts)where you can board an authentic recreation of the Mayflower II that took 102 men, women and children from Plymouth, England to presentday Massachusetts in 1620. It’s a great way to start your own exploration of the state’s history and culture, which you can continue to learn about discover at any of the worldclass museums in the area. One of the most famous is the Salem Witch Museum, which tells the story of the infamous Salem Witch Trials, which took place when the fear of witchcraft gripped the town in 1692. You can even take a ferry to Salem from Boston, or from Quincy and Provincetown; from Plymouth to Provincetown; from Cape Cod and New Bedford to the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. This leisurely way to travel affords you fresh air, a gentle journey and the widest, most open views of the beautiful coastal scenery. Once you’ve got your sea legs, you can take a cruise from Boston, Provincetown, Gloucester, Newburyport, Plymouth, Salem, Barnstable or Nantucket, to see the whales. Yes, wale watching is easy as they feed just off the coast and often breach the water, to the delight of tourists on boat trips. From April to October, the waters off Massachusetts are busy with whales munching on herring, mackerel and krill. At the feeding ‘grounds’, just 25 miles off shore, skippers and marine biologists will point out humpback, finback, right and minke whales… whatever might put in an appearance! 18 OCEAN VIEW
“Whale watching is easy as they feed just off the coast and often breach the water, to the delight of tourists on boat trips”
The proximity of the sea is not just good for looking at fish, of course – the whales aren’t the only ones who appreciate the taste of all that fresh seafood. Eating out is a pleasure, as some of America’s best chefs work within the state and are inspired by the top quality local produce. From the sea come lobster, clams and oysters, scallops and firm white fish. From the land come apples and pears, raspberries and strawberries, peaches and blueberries, as well as vegetables galore. Properly-ripened “corn on the cob” is an all-American treat, while pumpkins are everywhere in autumn. Of course, Massachusetts is the home of the cranberry, and to accompany delicious dishes there are craft beers and awardwinning wines, all made in the state. Boston is one of America’s most sophisticated cities, with world- class restaurants and award-winning chefs to match. But you can eat well anywhere and everywhere. Try a trattoria in the Italian North End; choose from a variety of Asian cuisines in Chinatown; pick up a snack at one of the food trucks in Boston and Cambridge. All over Massachusetts, there are terrific places to eat. As a result of the
Massachussets
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Massachussets
farm-to-table movement, more and more chefs are working direct with farmers to create exciting yet affordable dishes, using the freshest local produce. Be sure to try clam chowder, a hearty soup reflecting the region’s seafaring traditions. Along the coast, stop at a “lobster shack”, a simple restaurant serving seafood. Eating a lobster “in the rough” means tying on a bib, using your fingers and making a mess. Sit outdoors at a table by the water, forget about knives and forks and have one of the best meals ever. For many visitors, this is the highlight of a trip!
But Boston’s not only famous for its clam chowder… one of its most famous exports and most popular local draws is the Boston Red Sox baseball team – a collective passion for the area’s sports fans, and those from all over! You can find out why for yourself on a tour of Fenway Park stadium – or even better, from April to September, at a game! The stunning landscape and beautiful colours of Massachusetts change with the seasons, but there’s plenty to do and see year-round. Summers in New England are hot and sunny – often unlike Olde Englande! The
“There are cycle trails across the state and, particularly in the Berkshire Hills, great walking paths. ”
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Cape Cod National Seashore stretches for 40 unspoilt miles along the Atlantic Ocean: the long coastline is perfect for bucket and spade holidays and it’s always fun to get out on the water in a boat, sea kayak or the latest trend, on a paddle board. There are cycle trails across the state and, particularly in the Berkshire Hills, great walking paths. In the warm evenings, go to an outdoor concert or do as the locals do and have a barbecue. And you’ll not want to miss the Fourth of July fireworks: after all, where better to celebrate America’s independence than in Massachusetts, where the Revolution began? Fireworks are the grand finale to the free Boston Pops concert at the Hatch Shell on the Charles River Esplanade in Boston. Autumn, or fall, as it’s known stateside is when New England is world-famous for its annual free show of spectacular colours!
Massachusetts hasit it all. Massachusetts has all. Massachusetts has it all. Come and see for yourself. Come and see for yourself.
Come and see for yourself. What a does a holiday in Massachusetts look look like? greens, coolcool blues,blues, and pops red. And that’sAnd just the What does holiday in Massachusetts like?Lush Lush greens, andofpops of red. that’s just the beginning. Massachusetts has it all: Boston’s world-class arts and rich history, combined with world-renowned beginning. Massachusetts has it all: Boston’s world-class arts and rich history, combined with world-renowned colleges and universities and unbeatable shopping. Explore Cape Cod’s pristine beaches, the charming islands colleges and universities andNantucket, unbeatable shopping. Explore Cape Cod’s pristine beaches, charming islands What does a holiday in Massachusetts Lush greens, cool blues, and pops of red. And that’s just the of Martha’s Vineyard and thelook livinglike? history in Plymouth, and the rolling Berkshire Hills, the famous for of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, the living history in Plymouth, and the rolling Berkshire Hills, famous for their arts, cultural assets, and outdoor adventure. Experience it all, just a short flight across the pond. Plan the beginning. Massachusetts has it all: Boston’s world-class arts and rich history, combined with world-renowned perfect American holiday at massholiday.co.uk or phone us here thea UK on 0208 8483.the pond. Plan the their arts, cultural assets, and outdoor adventure. Experience all, in just short flight464 across colleges and universities and unbeatable shopping. Exploreit Cape Cod’s pristine beaches, the charming islands perfect American holiday at massholiday.co.uk or phone us here in the UK on 0208 464 8483.
of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, the living history in Plymouth, and the rolling Berkshire Hills, famous for their arts, cultural assets, and outdoor adventure. Experience it all, just a short flight across the pond. Plan the perfect American holiday at massholiday.co.uk or phone us here in the UK on 0208 464 8483. OCEAN VIEW 21
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In September and October, the days are still sunny and warm, but nights are cool – in fact, it is the drop in temperature that starts the colour. What is known as “fall foliage” covers many species: the most recognisable is the red maple that blazes bright crimson; black maples turn gold, while sugar maples are orange, yellow and vermilion. It is a truly dazzling sight that deserves a place on any traveler’s ‘bucket list’. From November onwards, the weather is crisp; but, with lots of sunshine, being out and about is still a pleasure. In Boston, it’s a great time to shop, (why not take advantage of Massachusetts tax free shopping on shoes and clothes up to $175.00 per transaction) visit the museums, take in a concert and sample restaurants. Build up an appetite by ice-skating on the Frog Pond, on Boston Common. As Christmas approaches, every home seems to have a wreath on the door and candles in the windows. The change from winter to spring brings another explosion of colour, in window boxes, parks and gardens private and public. After the daffodils and tulips come the lilacs. And in the country, there are wildflowers galore. The bluebells are different to the English variety, so they’re well worth spotting, as are trillium and the delightfully named Dutchman’s breeches. Whether you want to watch the wildlife, soak up the sun or simply watching the colours change, Massachusetts is the perfect destination for a real taste of the USA.
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MASK OPTIONAL FUN INEVITABLE In New Orleans, it’s Fat Tuesday every day of the week. Perhaps it’s because the city is the birthplace of jazz and the cocktail. There’s something to amuse and delight around every cobblestoned corner, especially the tax free shopping. Visit us at www.neworleansinfo.com.
24 OCEAN VIEW NEW ORLEANS CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU SellingtheLongHaul_BrandUSA_FINAL.indd 1
I NEWORLEANSINFO.COM 1/10/14 10:49 AM
ESSENTIAL RECIPES
Sharing Great Food
Le Pain Quotidien Cookbook reveals all the tricks of the artisan baker and home chef
Liégeoise salad This warm salad of new potatoes, green beans and endive, served topped with fried bacon, onions and egg, is a Belgian specialty. Hearty and comforting, it’s a complete meal in a bowl. Serves 4 1lb 6oz (600g) firm new potatoes, peeled and halved 5 cups (1lb 2oz/500g) fine green (French) beans 2 heads of Belgian endive (chicory), trimmed, leaves separated 2 cups (31/2oz/100g) mache (lamb’s lettuce) 1 tbsp unsalted butter 8 slices smoked bacon (about 1/8 inch/3mm thick), diced 1 onion, sliced 3 tbsp white wine vinegar black pepper 2 hard-boiled eggs, shelled and chopped
Steam the potatoes for 15–20 minutes, until tender, then drain and set aside. Blanch the green (French) beans in salted boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside. Arrange the endive (chicory) leaves, tips pointing upward, around the edge of a large serving bowl and place the mache (lamb’s lettuce) in the bottom of the bowl. In a nonstick skillet or frying pan, melt the butter and sauté the diced bacon, until golden brown. Add the onions and sweat, uncovered, for 3 minutes. Add the vinegar and bubble for 1 minute, stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to deglaze. Add the potatoes and green beans to the pan and season with pepper. Pour the warm mixture over the salad leaves, sprinkle over the chopped egg and serve immediately.
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ESSENTIAL RECIPES
Mediterranean Bites Great party food: eat these with one hand, hold your drink in the other.
“Eat these with one hand, hold your drink in the other”
Serves 4 For the red pepper sauce: 4 red bell peppers 1/2 garlic clove 1/2 tsp sea salt 1 sprig of thyme, leaves only 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil For the stuffing: 10oz (300g) chicken breast, diced 1/2 onion, roughly chopped 1 garlic clove 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 11/2 tsp sea salt 1 cup (4oz/125g) pine nuts pinch of cumin pinch of ginger pinch of cinnamon pinch of ground star anise pinch of freshly grated nutmeg 1 tsp black pepper 1/2 bunch of flat leaf parsley, finely chopped 1/2 bunch of cilantro (coriander), finely chopped 2 red bell peppers, halved and deseeded 1 medium eggplant (aubergine), thinly sliced lengthwise 1 large zucchini (courgette), thinly sliced lengthwise 3 tbsp extra To make the red pepper sauce, place the bell peppers in a large saucepan of boiling water for 4 minutes, then drain, cut in half and seed. Transfer the bell peppers to a blender along with the remaining ingredients and blend until smooth. The sauce should be quite runny, so add a little hot water and blend again if necessary. Pass the sauce through a fine strainer or sieve, then check the seasoning and set aside. To make the stuffing, put the chicken into the bowl of a food processor together with the onion, garlic, oil and salt. Process for 10 seconds, until the chicken is roughly ground (minced). Be careful not to overprocess or you will end up with a purée. Transfer to a bowl, then add the remaining stuffing ingredients and mix to a smooth consistency. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes until firm. Heat a broiler (grill) or ridged grill (griddle) pan. Once hot, grill the bell peppers until the skin blisters, then remove from the heat. Cover the bell peppers with a damp cloth and let cool slightly, then peel and cut the flesh into 4 long slices. To make the Mediterranean bites, spread a tablespoon of the stuffing over each vegetable slice. Roll up tightly and secure with a toothpick or cocktail stick. Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, put the stuffed vegetable rolls into the skillet, season with salt and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side or until the stuffing is cooked through and the vegetables are golden brown. You may need to cook them in batches and keep the cooked rolls warm in a low oven. Meanwhile, gently reheat the sauce in a small saucepan. Serve the warm Mediterranean bites with the sauce alongside.
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OPPOSITE: Mediterranean Bites
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DP adve
Goat cheese & asparagus frittata Make the most of the all-too-short asparagus season by starting your day with some fresh stalks of this most tender of vegetables. This dish is substantial enough for a light lunch, too—serve it with bread and a salad. Serves 2 6 asparagus spears (or 3 baby zucchini/courgettes, cut in half lengthwise) 4 eggs 4 tbsp light cream (single cream) or half-and-half 4 large cherry tomatoes, halved 1 tbsp thinly sliced tarragon leaves 1/2 tsp sea salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced 1 tsp thyme leaves 21/2oz (65g) firm crottin de chèvre (goat cheese), cut into 1/4 inch (4–5mm) slices Preheat the oven to 425ºF (220ºC/gas mark 7). Snap off the ends of the asparagus spears to remove the tough, woody part. Whisk the eggs and cream together in a bowl, then stir in the tomatoes, tarragon, salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in an ovenproof baking dish, skillet or frying pan for which you have a lid, then add the asparagus, garlic and half the thyme. Cover and sauté over medium heat for 3 minutes, until softened, then remove from the heat.
Le Pain Quotidien Cookbook, Photography by © Creative Communication SCRL 2013, Published by Mitchell Beazley 28 OCEAN VIEW
Pour the egg and cream mixture over the asparagus, lay the goat cheese slices on top, then sprinkle with the remaining thyme. Transfer the frittata to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the frittata is golden brown. Serve hot.
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It’s Time to Give Nature a Home As the days draw out and temperatures begin to soften, the RSPB’s Sarah Woods asks, “Are you Giving Nature a Home” this spring?
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s the days get longer and hopefully, warmer, our garden wildlife will burst into life in the spring. Plants will be blooming, bees will start buzzing after their winter slumber and birds will be gearing up for the breeding season by clearing their throats and starting to sing. Few things are as uplifting as the squawks, chirps and calls of birdsong and the unmistakable rustle of feathers and wildlife in our gardens, trees and hedgerows. The UK is a great place for a wide variety of wildlife as it contains numerous important breeding habitats for many different species, from heathland, meadows and wetlands to woodlands, coastal and verdant green valleys. Wherever we are in the UK, we are never far from wildlife be it hedgehogs, butterflies, dragonflies, voles, deer or some
of our truly amazing 574 species of birds. The dawn chorus usually starts in late winter but really kicks off in the spring. Robins, blackbirds and thrushes usually start proceedings and they are joined by others such as wrens, finches and starlings as we progress through spring. These resident birds are joined by our earliest summer migrants. Chiffchaff and blackcaps will add their voices to the choir in March or early April after returning from wintering in southern Europe and north Africa. Swallows and house martins will also be making their return to our shores in April, closely followed by swifts in May. These birds will have spent the winter in Africa and return to nest on our houses. Swifts in particularly are now almost entirely reliant on houses to provide them with a safe place to nest.
They are very faithful to their nest sites so it is important that these are protected. Most of our summer migrants will have arrived by May but there may still be some lingering winter migrants in our gardens too. Most head off in March and April but some redwings, fieldfares and bramblings can provide a reminder of the cold winter weather. Once the formalities of finding a territory and mate are sorted, then birds will get down to the business of rearing their young. Nest building, egg laying, incubation and fledging can all happen over the space of a few weeks. Some birds such as blue tits will literally put all their eggs in one basket. They have just one brood a year but lay lots of eggs, sometimes over 10, to make up for any losses. Others such as blackbirds prefer OCEAN VIEW 31
RSPB
What Can I Expect to See in my Garden?
House sparrow House sparrows are social birds that are usually seen in flocks. They usually nest in holes in buildings and nestboxes but will use dense cover such as ivy too. They need insects in summer to feed their young so mealworms can be a great food to put out. In winter, seeds become more important. Starling Starlings have a very varied diet. They will feed primarily on invertebrates in the soil so short grassy areas are valuable but they will also take a range of seeds and fruit such as yew berries or apples. Robins Arguably Britain’s best-loved bird. Robins will often follow gardeners around to take advantage of the insects and worms in the disturbed soil. They will feed on mealworms, seeds, nuts and fruit. They like to nest in dense cover so ivy, or bramble can be great plants to encourage. Song thrush The song thrush’s fondness for slugs and snails makes them a popular visitor with most gardeners. They also feed on worms and berries through the autumn and winter. Dense, thorny bushes such as hawthorn can be great nest sites and provide berries to help them through the colder months. Blackbirds One of the most familiar garden birds with a loud and impressive song. Blackbirds can often be seen foraging in amongst leaf litter for insects or out on the lawn digging up worms. They are fond of fruits too so planting hedges that produce berries or leaving out apples is a great way to help them.
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to have two or three broods each containing fewer eggs and will tend to start breeding earlier in the year. The first chicks could be fledging into our gardens by April or even as early as March but normally May is the peak time for seeing the chicks make their first foray out of the nest. Many will struggle to fly for a few days but will hop around the garden practicing. Their parents are normally close by and will provide food for them for a few weeks until they become fully independent. Our gardens are important homes for a range of other spring and summer wildlife too. Honeysuckle will be flowering and attracting a range of bees and butterflies. Dragonflies could also be seen patrolling your garden looking for their prey. Looking closely at the flowers should also reveal hoverflies too. These bee and wasp mimics are harmless and great additions to the garden because their larvae has a taste for aphids. British garden birds have had mixed fortunes. Many species that regularly visit gardens to take advantage of the food we provide are doing well. However, there
are serious concerns about some of our most familiar and best loved species. Of particular concern are house sparrows and starlings. A major factor in the declining numbers of certain species is loss of habitat – if the places that nature calls home, where it raises a family and finds food are being destroyed, exploited and polluted it is soon in serious trouble. Of the 6,000 British wildlife species assessed recently, more than one in 10 are under threat of disappearing from our shores altogether – a worrying prospect. That is why the RSPB is urging garden owners to make small changes to their green space to better encourage and sustain birds and wildlife. A wide variety of insects and other invertebrate animals, birds, mammals and amphibians can be found in gardens if they are provided with a suitable environment. Private gardens in Britain cover about 270,000 hectares (667,000 acres) so their potential as a haven for wildlife is considerable. Thankfully, relatively few of Britain’s 22,400 species of insects are garden pests; of the rest, some of the others are
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beneficial as pollinating insects, or as predators or parasites of pest species, while the majority feed on dead or living plant material without having any detrimental effect on gardens. A wildlife-friendly garden doesn’t have to be wild and overgrown and it can look attractive all year round. Grow a wide variety of plants and you’ll offer food and shelter for all sorts of wildlife. Planting native plants in a garden helps to link the garden and its wildlife to the wider countryside. Not cutting back hedges too early in winter or tidying up and trimming plants immediately after they flowered will give birds a chance to use the seeds - so think about letting plants die back naturally and tidying them up later. You’ll find you soon create the kind of habitats to attract wildlife. You might spot blackcaps eating the red berries of honeysuckle in the autumn and common darter dragonflies feeding on the flies that come to feast on the over-ripe juices of the fruit. Blackbirds gobble up cotoneaster berries through winter or forage for insects under the shelter of a humid shrub bed all year round, accompanied in summer by a hedgehog or toad that has also come to feed on the insects. The UK gardening population could make a massive difference to our much-loved garden birds and ensure future generations get to enjoy them too. Hedgehogs, once frequently sighted hidden amongst piles of late autumn leaves, are rarely seen in gardens these days following a decline in numbers of 25 per cent in just the last ten years. As with birds, there are plenty of small things you can do to try and help and encourage these wonderful creatures into your garden, and hopefully reverse this trend. Hedgehogs are great pest controllers; slugs are one of their favourite foods, so try and use wildlife friendly pellets instead of the potentially harmful types. Providing a Hog Shelter for them in which to hibernate the winter away can also help – and what child’s garden is complete without a Hedgehog Hotel?!
How gardeners can support garden birds Gardeners have a vital role to play in supporting garden birds and wildlife. For advice on how to make a few simple changes to your garden, in order to attract a greater number of birds and wildlife, see the RSPB’s Give Nature a Home www.rspb.co.uk/homes - you’ll find stacks of advice tailored to your outside space that will help transform your garden, terrace, balcony or patio into a wildlife haven. The RSPB is actively encouraging all gardeners to “do their bit” for nature now that 60% of our favourite creatures are in serious trouble including starlings, hedgehogs, some butterflies and ladybirds – many because of loss of suitable habitats. By cutting hedges later, allowing grasses to grow, sowing flowers that are good nectar sources, erecting a bird box or providing sheltered, warm, dry spots for hedgehog habitat we can all encourage greater number of flapping, fluttering, buzzing and snuffling creatures and birds to
take up residence in UK gardens. Together, gardeners can make a HUGE difference whether it is digging a pond, planting wild flowers, creating a bug hotel or adding a window box or tub. Another good way to encourage a host of different birds into the garden is to provide both natural and supplementary food year-round, especially in winter. Feeding garden birds is a widespread and popular activity and important for the enjoyment and understanding of our garden wildlife. Over half of adults in the UK feed birds in their garden. That’s a lot of extra help for the birds! It is important to feed your garden birds responsibly and safely. By following a few simple guidelines, you can play a valuable role in helping your local birds overcome periods of natural food shortage, survive periods of severe winter weather and come into good breeding condition in the spring. Winter food shortages can reduce bird survival and birds may become dependent on garden feeders. OCEAN VIEW 35
Create Your Escape Experience the bliss of YOUR perfect holiday with a private villa: luxury, just the way you want it
Luxurious holiday beach villas in Cyprus
Sharing is caring …but not sharing is sheer indulgence! If you’re looking to get away from it all, the idea of having absolutely zero competition (well, apart from your significant other) for the best sun lounger or the run of the pool. We’re sure you’ll be all-systems-go on your trip away from home, but if you appreciate the additional comforts of DVD players, satellite TV, sound systems and other facilities that are particularly useful if you’ve got children with you or would like to stay longer than a week, they’re the kind of extras you can opt for when choosing your villa holiday. You can choose what kind 36 OCEAN VIEW
of pool you’d like, how much space you’d need and where you want to be! The promise of peace Some of the best spots for soaking up the sun and relaxing by the sea are not known for the quietness of their resorts. Unfortunately, when a lot of people have the same great idea it’s inevitable that hotels can get busy, and when they’re busy, they can be loud. The vibrancy of other holidaymakers full of life after an evening out can be a beautiful thing… but perhaps not most welcome when you’ve just spent the day unwinding from the bustle of home. One of
the wonderful things about a private villa holiday is the ability to choose exactly who is in your space, so whether you’d prefer an adults-only gathering or a family-friendly retreat with beach access but no stag and hen parties, you can be sure that’s what you’ll get. Time, your way. One of the many freedoms renting your own villa accommodation offers is that of time. Check in and out times tend to be less restrictive, and unlike package holidays, your time is entirely yours to do as much – or as little – as you like with. Had a lie
Luxury Villas
in, and want breakfast at eleven? That’s your choice. Spent a long day in the sun and fancy some fresh local nibbles and a glass of wine as late as you fancy, rather than having to rush back for a sit-down dinner? You can do that, and what’s more you can enjoy your food and drink in peace, wherever you’d like. The extra maneuverability when it comes to catering arrangements is especially ideal when it comes to groups with someone who has complex dietary requirements or families with a fussy eater. If you’re not a fan of hotel food, or of sitting down in one place for three set meals a day, having your own kitchen offers you everything you need to eat what you like, when you like. Imagine chatty family dinners or romantic meals for two without the bustle of a hotel restaurant about you! If you enjoy trying out local eateries, going self-catering can also save money versus paying for a room and board or half-board if there’s a good chance you’ll be eating elsewhere at least some of the time. The Numbers that Count Villa holidays are extremely flexible. If there’s just the two of you, you’ll have a lot more privacy than you would in a hotel, but if there’s more than four, it’s a great way to put everyone up in one place. If you have a group that’s not going to fit into a hotel’s family suite, managing multiple-room bookings can quickly become complicated. Villas offer a space that’s just for you, with no fear of overrunning an area or facility with your party. With some villas, you pay the same amount regardless of the number of occupants, so it could be a case of the more the merrier as you invite all your best friends – or the extended family – on a substantially cost-saving, personalised trip together where your group will have facilities all to themselves. However many of you there may be, you’ll have privacy and unlimited, unhindered access to pools, kitchens, and everything else you have on hand in your own private villa. Bliss! Colourful villas overlooking ocean, Puerto Vallarta city, Bahia de Banderas (Bay of Flags), Mexico
It’s Your Call. Private, luxurious and more affordable than you may think, villa holidays are the perfect way to unwind in style with your loved ones. Start dreaming today! OCEAN VIEW 37
Full of Surprises
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urrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, pounding waves and billowing spray sculpt the shores of the Falkland Islands with an artistic flourish. The Falklands archipelago is teeming with wonders of nature and wildlife; an unpolluted environment with fantastically clear blue skies, seamless horizons, vast open spaces and beaches of stunning white sand. The whole area of the Falklands is very much a natural paradise. Tiny settlements nestle amidst many miles of open spaces, surrounded by spectacular scenery, fascinating rivers of rock, seas of brilliant aqua greens and silvery blues. Wildlife is free to roam and many species have chosen
the Islands as their home. It’s one of the few places left where you can discover the special feeling when a penguin comes close, stops, takes a good look and then continues on its way; watch nature in the raw as a whale takes a penguin as prey and marvel at the delicate beauty of endemic flowers. The Falklands archipelago consists of two main islands: East and West Falkland with smaller islands scattered around the shores. Each destination has something special and unique to offer, from the smallest settlement on a remote island to Stanley, the southernmost capital in the World, characterised by colourful buildings and features of its British heritage, red telephone boxes, post boxes and public houses.
The rest of the area is far less inhabited, but East Falkland is mostly accessible by road. Organise a tour guide to take you to places of interest and bring stories of the Falklands to life, particularly to enjoy the off-road driving experience to more remote locations such as Volunteer Point. Vehicles are available to hire if you wish to set your own pace and most settlements offer accommodation. West Falkland, similarly, has a good road network and can be reached by the Newhaven-Port Howard ferry. A variety of accommodation options enables visitors to appreciate farm life and local guides offer tours to wildlife colonies, scenic points and for fishing. The Outer Islands are the highlight for
Discover the Falklands: Call +(500) 22215 or email: info@falklandislands.com 38 OCEAN VIEW
From the wild landscapes of almost untouched islands to the quaintly British charm of Stanley, you’re sure to experience the delightfully unexpected in the Falkland Islands!
many visitors to the Falklands. In fact, the ideal way to experience the remoteness of Island life is with an overnight stay at one of the smaller islands scattered around the edges of the East and West. In fact, one night is rarely enough to appreciate the true isolation and beauty of these small islands, the hospitality of the hosts and the wonderful wildlife on the doorstep. The natural environment is, of course, the essence of the tourist experience in the Falkland Islands. Wildlife encounters are very much in the wild and rarely shared with large numbers of other humans. They may be up-close-and-personal, with respect for the wildlife of course, or from the comfort of a vehicle as you choose. Penguins and
marine mammals, including the world’s largest pinniped, are guaranteed at many locations during the summer months along with a wealth of other species of flora and fauna. These are set against a backdrop of rugged mountains or pristine coastal areas unspoilt by development. Photographers, bird watchers, nature enthusiasts, specialists, ramblers or visitors simply looking for something off-thebeaten-track will enjoy viewing nature at its best in the Islands. Charles Darwin’s visits in the 19th century helped inspire his theory of evolution later published as “On the Origin of Species”. The natural environment includes fossils, unusual geological features known as “stone runs” and minerals
including the distinctive Falkland pebbles: attractive semi-precious stones found on some northern beaches. But the real gem is the experience itself: the rare chance to explore somewhere comparatively untouched, with the comforts of a familiar warm welcome to return to at the end of the day.
www.falklandislands.com
www.falklandislands.com
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AN ISLAND PARADISE WHERE THE WILDLIFE COMES TO YOU
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A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES
FALKLANDISLANDS.COM
Falklands: Interview
A Wild Paradise Living with wildlife in the Falkland Islands
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ony Mason left London two years ago to set up home in one of the most remote places on Earth. Here he tells Ocean View why moving to the Falklands was the best decision he’s ever made. The Falkland Islands, located 300 miles off the east coast of Southern America, are made up of 740 islands all home to a vast array of extraordinary wildlife. Penguins, walrus, killer whales, elephant seals, porpoise, dolphins, black-browned albatrosses and almost 200 native species of plant all thrive together on these craggy lands and shores, helping to attract around 53,000 binocular-wielding visitors a year. But what is it like to live and work on these remote, sparsely populated islands? Tony Mason is now Managing Director of the Falklands Island Tourist Board and proud inhabitant of the archipelago’s capital Stanley. He said: “My time in the Falkland Islands has been fantastic and an adventure I will never forget. I had been Managing Director for a travel group in Canary Wharf for quite a few years and felt it was time for a change. One Friday afternoon looking at a trade magazine, I spotted a listing for Managing Director of the Tourist Board in the Falkland Islands. I had been in the industry for many years and thought a change might be good, but the Falkland Islands? I tore out the article and took it home and discussed it with my partner expecting to find no support for a move to another country and to my surprise the reply was ‘Go for it!’ So I did. Two years later, and it has been the best decision and experience of my life.” Only 2,000 people live in Stanley, with the outside villages barely reaching a population of 20 people each. For this
reason, community spirit is a big part of life in the Falklands. This is something Tony has seen reflected in his role at the Tourism Board. He said: “When I accepted the role I never expected to be working so closely with the Legislative Assembly, Governor and being engaged in matters that affect national security such as air-links to the islands. We are successfully running a small, spectacular country and that’s an amazing feeling.” While people may few and far between on this quiet corner of the Southern Atlantic, there’s certainly no shortage of wildlife. “The wildlife in the Falklands is so amazing it’s really hard to describe. I tell journalists and visitors: if you take a blanket and just sit down with your friends for a picnic, all of a sudden you’re surrounded by penguins and birds. They are not afraid of humans in the Falkland Islands as we don’t pose a threat.” Stanley, where Tony is based, is a thriving and colourful seaside town with a distinctly English feel left over from its British heritage. Here visitors can find old countrystyle pubs, military monuments, churches, fascinating museums and of course the bustling shops and restaurants you’d expect from any significant town. Of course, there is plenty more to discover outside of Stanley, in what the locals call ‘Camp’, which refers to all islands and areas beyond the capital. Tony said: “I have just finished a tour of all of the Islands and the different offering on each Island make the experience unforgettable. Sea lions, elephant seals, albatross, five of the seven breading species of penguins, whales, and so many more marine animals are at your fingertips. “We enjoy welcoming over 50,000 cruise visitors each year and the number is steadily
increasing. When people arrive for the day by sea, they enjoy visiting one of the largest King Penguin colonies in the world at Volunteer Point, visiting war memorials, and see the capital of Stanley or some go on an adventure off road experience in a 4x4. However, those fortunate enough to arrive by air and plan a land-based holiday have better opportunities to see the wildlife on the Islands and meet the locals. As I mentioned before, each Island offers a different and diverse variety of marine wildlife and so many species of birds. I recommend a minimum of seven days island hopping on one of our five FIGAS Islander aircraft (which fly you according to your itinerary). If you have time you could easily enjoy a fortnight without ever getting bored. The wildlife and experience of remote tranquillity you get in the Falklands is unique!” There are a number of cruise operators serving the Falklands Islands, offering a range of vessels from the highest luxury cruises, to well-equipped expedition ships. Cruise passengers have access to a variety of organized excursions once on shore. To find out more about cruising to the Falklands, go to www.falklandislands.com OCEAN VIEW 41
Sardinia:
A Beautiful Place to Be The Mediterranean’s second largest island, Sardinia, continues to lure travellers to its shores. Whether it’s the endless, stunning sandy beaches, fabulous sailing and wind surfing , magnificent mountainous scenery, fascinating history, wonderful cuisine or the glamourous Costa Smerelda with its luxurious hotels, boutiques and restaurants, there is something to offer everyone. If you are planning a touring holiday in Sardinia, it is surprisingly easy to negotiate the entire island by car. You can drive from the northernmost point to the southernmost point in roughly four hours and the journey across the middle of the island from east to west takes even less time – around two and a half hours at the most. For many, being based in one of Sardinia’s beautiful private villas near the coast is one of the best ways to discover the whole island and experience a bit of local culture. MORE ABOUT SOUTHERN SARDINIA While the north of the island offers stunning views, the glamour
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of the Costa Smerelda, and proximity to the island of Corsica, the south has plenty to offer. One place you should definitely make time to visit while you are in Sardinia is Cagliari, the island’s capital and home to the island’s main airport. If you stay in a villa in Villasimius or anywhere else in the southern part of the island, it is this airport which is the easiest to travel to and from. It handles millions of passengers on an annual basis and if you are travelling from the UK you can fly from London Heathrow, Manchester, London Gatwick and Edinburgh. It has been proven that people have settled and lived in Cagliari for at least five thousand years. It may be hard to believe when you see the modern buildings there today, but there are signs of ancient settlements here, such as the ‘Domus de Janas’ or the ‘Houses of the Fairies’ which date from prehistoric times and are also sometimes referred to as witches’ houses. They shouldn’t be
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too hard to find as more than one thousand have been found so far. From outside they look like large stone structures with a small hole that acts as a doorway. If sandy beaches is what you love on holiday, then Poetto offers eight kilometres of gorgeous sands. Close by you will also find Villasimius and the Costa Rei. MORE ABOUT VILLASIMIUS There are many reasons to choose Villasimius as your base for a Sardinian holiday, particularly as there is a good choice of wonderful holiday villas there. Villasimius is situated a short distance inland in the south eastern corner of Sardinia, but there are many delightful beaches nearby. One of the highlights is Porto Giunco, which boasts beautiful white sands and azure blue waters. Also worth visiting is Timi Ama, a salt water lake which is home to pink flamingos, as well as Simius, Piscadeddus and Cala Caterina among others. As is the case with much of the rest of the island, the history of Villasimius goes back many centuries although today it is first and foremost a holiday destination. There is a lovely selection of shops here and if you spend a day in the town you can round it off with a tasty meal at one of the many available restaurants.
COSTA REI If you are keen to stay in southern Sardinia but you would rather visit Villasimius than use it as your base, perhaps Costa Rei would be more appealing. Costa Rei is located a short distance up the eastern coastline from Villasimius and within easy reach of Cagliari too. The beach at Costa Rei is vast and sandy, providing you with plenty of options to choose a spot to stretch out and relax for the day, perfect for family holidays or couples in search of outstanding beaches on the island. If the idea of lying on the sand all day doesn’t quite fit the bill for you, why not indulge in some of the activities that are on offer? Costa Rei is very popular for divers, and even if you’re not qualified to dive, snorkeling is easy to arrange. Known for its breezy conditions, Costa Rei is popular for windsurfing and sailing. While Costa Rei is known for its beautiful beaches, it is also a great place to explore signs from the ancient past. The Piscina Rei area dates back to Neolithic times and there are various stone menhirs that mark the rising and setting of the sun. Please contact us at Italian Rentals 4u for further tips and advice about Sardinia. We would be happy to help you find your ideal holiday villa in Villasimius or the surrounding areas.
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Devon
A Weekend in…
From beautiful sandy beaches to wild moors and National Parks, spend a weekend in Devon and you may just feel like you’re a lot further away!
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niquely for a UK county, Devon boasts five areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO Geopark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and two National Parks. Perhaps the most famous of the National Parks is Dartmoor. Its 386 square miles of rugged and untamed beauty inspired Conan Doyle’s The Hound of the Baskervilles, and has been used as the backdrop for many Hollywood blockbusters. Dotted with welcoming pubs and restaurants and populated with herds of wild Dartmoor ponies, it’s the perfect dramatic setting for walks and bike rides in the great outdoors. The English Riviera begins in earnest in Torquay, a historic maritime town that hosts to a number of annual sporting events and festivals, including the Riviera’s own regatta. The area’s unique ecosystem means visitors can take part in a variety of unusual activities such as coasteering and canoeing the coves or simply enjoying some
fresh seafood at some of the county’s best restaurants. Plymouth is also packed with history and its own distinctive character. The scene of Sir Francis Drake’s legendary game of bowls, it’s also thought by some to be the cultural centre of the county because of its theatres, art galleries and live music scene. Exeter also has its fair share of history, parts of the city centre dating back to Roman times and much of its Roman wall still intact. However, it also boasts a superb high street and plenty of family activities, as well as being close enough to the Jurassic Coast to be an excellent base. South Devon offers a wonderful coastline for water sports and gentle walks and there are plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy. Its landscape of gentle rolling hills backdropped by the wilds of Dartmoor, making it a region of contrasts that has inspired poets and artists for centuries. North Devon is the location of a number of stately homes in picturesque grounds, and
“Populated with herds of wild Dartmoor ponies, it’s the perfect dramatic setting for walks and bike rides in the great outdoors”
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Devon
Brown pony high on a hill in Dartmoor Park in Devon, England with farmland and village in distant background
OCEAN VIEW 45
The inner harbour at Torquay Devon England UK.
some of the county’s best surfing beaches for those who enjoy a faster paced life! Mountain biking is very popular in the region, and Coasteering is a great way to experience the drama of the craggy North Devon coast. Elsewhere, golden sands and rockpools offer beaches that are perfect for all kinds of family holidays. Exmoor National Park is one Britain’s true hidden treasures, packed with new places to discover! Dulverton, for example, is the setting of part of Blackmore’s classic novel ‘Lorna Doone’. The castle at Dunster stands guard over the town’s medieval buildings and the busy village and port of Porlock are a great pitstop before hiking the breathtaking coastal route. Throughout the area, you’ll be surprised at every turn with quaint harbours, unique shops selling local crafts, restaurants where you can feast on the catch of the day and of course, Devon’s famous market days. 46 OCEAN VIEW
“Spend a weekend – or a week, or a fortnight – in Devon and explore the magical county that inspired Beatrix Potter and so many more!” The county is also scattered with valleys, waterfalls, pathways and secret coves. Spend a weekend – or a week, or a fortnight – in Devon and explore the magical county that inspired Beatrix Potter and so many more!
The grand Gothic style Cathedral at Exeter Devon England UK
Wimbleball Lake Exmoor National Park Somerset. It is well known for its activity centre and is popular for walking, camping, birdwatching, angling, sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, rowing and kayaking
Plymouth Hoe, Devon
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Cruise to Dubai:
The City of Gold
Discover Dubai’s shimmering cityscape from the water
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Dubai rears up from the Arabian Desert like a glimmering mirage: an oasis of shopping malls, stylish restaurants and towering skyscrapers. In recent years it has transformed from an unassuming fishing port into a colossal metropolis – a thriving centre for global business, finance and culture. Now Dubai, nicknamed the City of Gold for its incredible wealth, has opened
its ports to the international cruise industry in order to welcome sea-faring visitors with open arms. Thanks to a new Cruise Arabia partnership between Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), Oman Tourism and Abu Dhabi Tourism, it will soon be easier than ever for cruise passengers to explore the Arabian Gulf in the most luxurious way imaginable.
Why cruise to Dubai? Dubai is well known as the shopping capital of the east, but this wealthy Emirate isn’t all about shopping. It also boasts some of the world’s best restaurants, bars, galleries and museums – not to mention glorious sunshine all year round and plenty of outdoor activities for those who crave adventure. Speaking at the recent Cruise Shipping OCEAN VIEW 49
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Dubai
“The port’s proximity to the centre of the city and excellent transportation links means that the attractions of Dubai are within immediate reach of cruise passengers” Miami event, Hamad bin Mejren (Executive Director at DTCM) said: “In recent years the Dubai leadership has invested heavily in the development of the cruise sector, resulting in Dubai becoming recognized as a leading cruise hub.” Sultan Al Dhaheri (Acting Executive Director at TCA Abu Dhabi) added: “Abu Dhabi, Oman and Dubai represent a strong and captivating regional destination that can compete with the world’s primary cruise hotspots.” The port is close to the centre of the city and boasts excellent transportation links so all the attractions of Dubai are just a short journey away for cruise passengers. There is certainly no shortage of things for you and your fellow passengers to do once you reach dry land. Shopping in Dubai is something all visitors – even those averse to traipsing around shops, must try during their trip. Where there’s an abundance of money, there’s going to be an abundance of places to spend it, and malls in Dubai are in such fierce competition that many have become attractions in their own right. Each one is bigger, better and more fantastical than the last. For this reason, shopping in the City of Gold is a unique experience – and a breathtaking one at that. In the Souk Madinat for instance, shoppers can get around the many souk-style stores via OCEAN VIEW 51
Dubai
a winding waterway, and at the enormous Mall of the Emirates there’s an indoor ski slope for anyone who fancies a pit stop between shops. At the Dubai Mall – the biggest mall in the world, you can stop for a designer coffee at the Armani café, or even seek an adrenaline rush at the indoor theme park. There is much more to Dubai than shopping and once you’ve seen the malls, it’s time to head out of the city and into an adventure. Beyond the astonishing skyscrapers, there’s a rugged coastline and a breathtaking desert to discover. If you can tear yourself away from the luxury of your cruise ship, why not hire a 4X4 and drive into the desert for a spot of camping? Between golden dunes you can pitch your tent, light up a barbeque and relax beneath the stars. The next day, you can make the most of those sloping dunes and opt for a spot of sand-boarding and hair-raising offroading, or you can head back to the coast, hire a kayak and explore the Gulf’s beautiful clear waters. If you’re feeling very adventurous, there’s an enclave beyond the private beaches in the centre of Dubai that is becoming increasingly popular with kite surfers, so if you have time, get down there and give this extreme sport a go! There has been a great deal of investment pumped into the tourism sector all across the Arabian Peninsular in recent years, making it a prime destination for cruise lines. Royal Caribbean International has recently announced its return to the Gulf after four successful seasons, offering 16 round trips between December 2015 and March 2016. The Splendour of The Seas offers plenty of enriching daytime activities, lively nighttime entertainment and sophisticated restaurants – so you can enjoy top quality luxury even en-route to the dazzling City of Gold.
www.dubaitourism.ae 52 OCEAN VIEW
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Test Drive Ocean View’s Motoring Editor, Simon Skinner tests out the new Jaguar XJ PORTFOLIO SWB
O
ne thing is clear, this Jaguar represents the first ‘major’ redesign of the legendary XJ series, the shape of which has been synonymous with the brand; perhaps even as much as the classic 911 shape has been to Porsche over the last few decades. Considering this, it was with some excitement that the keys were received at the SBT offices with the promise of a week’s luxury motoring ahead. Straight away, the car felt instantly as Jaguars have always done: smooth, sleek and with a drive that is akin at times to floating. Not the kind of floating that you might have experienced with an older, top of the range Jaguar but a newer, more defined drive that offers an experience better suited for those who like corners and the odd rumble of an imperfect road. Of course, there are a host of options to consider in this respect; it would be difficult not to find a setting that suits the individual. It’s fair to say that this is the sort of car in which one is more likely to be driven, and not one that one would find themselves at the wheel too often. It comes as no surprise that this car is the choice of many a politician and let’s face it, they are along the lines of customer at which this car is aimed and certainly the kind of customer who can afford it. With it’s [optional] rear screens, bluetooth headphones and retractable desk which pops neatly in and out of the front 54 OCEAN VIEW
seats, this is the kind of drive in which you could easily and comfortably get a lot of work done; and the kind of smoothness which will prevent your writing being jogged as you travel. Back behind the drivers seat though, one feels that some compromise has been made with rear visibility somewhat in favour of the ‘eyes’ in the centre console. Whilst this technology is extremely clever and brilliantly effective, it takes some getting used to and an unusual amount of trust in the engineering to put your hands (or your eyes) fully into the ability of the car. Personally, I’d still like to be able to see the blind spots easily. Just to check. The response of the beastly engine is palpable and a dream in full auto but especially using the flappy paddles. It’s my first experience of automatically controlled high/low beam headlights and I have to profess to the fact that I now believe that Jaguar Land Rover now have their own set of magicians working within their walls. Still, I’m sure this kind of thing will become more and more commonplace in cars as time moves on and rear screens will become less and less of a requirement. I know that I would happily take the chance to get used to it, given the opportunity to keep hold of this 3.0 litre V6 Supercharged petrol powered beauty for longer! www.jaguar.co.uk
Motoring
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5 copies of Intermezzo by Stephen Rhodes on CD
We’re giving away 3 copies of the ‘La Pain Quotidien Cookbook’ for you to create the taste of Le Pain Quotidien in your own home
For those seeking the soundtrack to inner calm, we have five copies of The Stillness of Beauty by Stuart Michael on CD to give away. Float away on the relaxing tides of this album’s instrumental landscapes, with soothing strings to sing your tension away... bliss!
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Le Pain Quotidien Cookbook
Giveaways Monthly
To be in with a chance of winning, all you need to do is email lottie@oceanviewuk.co.uk with ‘Freebs’ in the subject line and your contact details in the body of the message so we can tell you if there’s a prize on its way to you!
We could all do with a little treat now and then... all the more so if it’s free! There’s nothing quite like a present arriving on your doorstep, so we are giving readers the opportunity to be one of lucky winners who receive one of these fantastic freebies!
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Multi-Tool iPhone Case to giveaway
The in1 case is a rugged but beautifully designed multitool/phone case perfect for people on the go! It has a variety of tools cleverly built in to the design of the product and we have 3 to giveaway.
Don’t miss an issue of our new monthly-format for an entire year!
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OCEAN VIEW Sailing, Cruising Interiors, Lifestyle, Food,
6 readers can win an Ocean View subscription each
and so much more...
IT’S TIME TO ENJOY
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FREE
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Support your tummy while abroad! When travelling abroad, the local food, drink and climate can all have an effect on the balance of bacteria in your digestive system. Bimuno® TRAVELAID is a unique and convenient formulation that has been specially developed for business and holiday travellers, to be taken in preparation for and during your time abroad. Published scientific studies* have shown that some prebiotic Galacto-oligosaccharides, such as provided by Bimuno TRAVELAID, can help encourage and sustain a healthy level of your ‘good’ gut bacteria.
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OCEAN VIEW 57 *Studies on file. Bimuno TRAVELAID is the result of nine years of intensive scientific research with the University of Reading. Bimuno is a food supplement. Food supplements are intended to supplement your diet and should not be regarded as a substitute for a varied diet and a healthy lifestyle. Bimuno® is a registered trademark which is the property of Clasado Inc for a Prebiotic Transgalactooligosaccharide.
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Ocean View Recommends
in partnership with
.co.uk
Book Club
In each issue, we will be searching out and offering you the cream from the latest life style relevant titles at the very best prices. Choose from a host of titles, including our featured books from any issue and join us online at www.hive.co.uk/ocean-view to view more Ocean View recommendations at your leisure. Enjoy...
Le Pain Quotidien Cookbook
Le Pain Quotidien Cookbook presents over 100 recipes for simple, elegant boulangerie fare - handmade bread, breakfast, tartines, soup, salads, sharing dishes and desserts Publisher: Octopus Publishing Group Publication Date: 03 June 2013 ISBN: Food and Drink Price: £14.90
Lonely Planet USA Lonely Planet USA is your passport to all the most relevant and up-to-date advice on what to see, what to skip, and what hidden discoveries await you Publisher: Lonely Planet Publications Publication Date: 01 February 2014 ISBN: 9781743218396 Price: £20.50
Selina Lake Outdoor Living
In her latest book, Selina Lake Outdoor Living, Selina brings her signature fresh, pretty and vintage style to outdoor spaces small and large. Publisher: Ryland, Peters & Small Ltd Publication Date: 27 March 2014 ISBN: 9781849755061 Price: £14.37
Rspb Handbook Of British Birds This is a revised and updated fourth edition of the bestselling RSPB Handbook of British Birds. This unique guide provides a ‘biography’ of each of the 280 commonest British bird species Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Publication Date: 27 March 2014 ISBN: 9781472906472 Price: £7.49 58 OCEAN VIEW
Door to door cruise transfers Cruise transfer specialists Ports Direct are geared to offer cruise lines passengers a UK nationwide cruise transfer service to/from all main seaports, airports and train stations.
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Swiss movement, English heart
Made in Switzerland / Sellita SW200-1 self-winding movement / 38 hour power reserve / 42mm marine-grade 316L stainless steel case and deployment bracelet / Water resistant to 300 metres / 4mm anti-reflective sapphire crystal / Deep-etched back-plate engraving 60 OCEAN VIEW
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