Unique magazine autumn17

ISSUE 7 Exclusively for

UP, UP AND AWAY

EXPERIENCE THE GOLDEN AGE OF BALLOONING IN THE SUSSEX SKIES

ART OF INVESTMENT

CONSIDER PUTTING YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR MASTERPIECES ARE

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE

MUST-HAVE FASHION STYLES AND OUTFITS TO SNAP UP THIS WINTER

WEDDING WONDERLANDS WHY YOUR SEASONAL BIG DAY COULD BE A DREAM COME TRUE

IDRIS ELBA

THE MANY FACES OF THE UK’S HOTTEST TALENT IN HOLLYWOOD

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INTRODUCTION

A VERY WARM

Welcome from Peter and Deborah

We’re delighted to welcome you to the highly anticipated seventh issue of Unique Magazine.

Our stylish publication has been designed and developed to not only give you a taste of what to expect and what’s to come from our four luxury hotels, but to also offer a laidback read while you relax with us, and to enjoy at home.

In this edition, you can expect a little more of what we love, including an insight into the newly renovated Barnett Hill Hotel, our cocktail of the season, and our much-loved ‘Meet the Team’ feature; not forgetting our love for good food, cosy nights in and local life in Sussex, Kent and Surrey.

Whether you’ve joined us at Alexander House, Rowhill Grange, Langshott Manor or Barnett Hill for an overnight stay, spa experience or dining treat, we wish you a very warm welcome, and hope that you enjoy your visit.

PETER AND DEBORAH HINCHCLIFFE OWNERS

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CONTENTS

Welcome to the seventh issue of Unique magazine – here’s what you’ll find inside...

UNIQU 08

FLAVOURS TO SAVOUR

38

OUT & ABOUT

11

CUPID’S KISS

40

BRITISH BALLOONING

12

HAUTE ON THE HILL

43

WINTER ESCAPES

15

SUNDAY LUNCH

48

PERFECT PARTNERS

16

BARNETT’S NEW LOOK

49

CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR

18

MEET THE CHEFS

ART INVESTMENTS

21

50

WINTER FITNESS

WEDDING WONDERS

23

52

FASHION FANCIES

HOME COUNTIES

26

58

HOOGLY TEA

29

BREITLING BEAUTIES

32

NAILS TO DIE FOR

35

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

The best of winter produce to enjoy at home in your kitchen

Shake things up with our seasonal winter cocktail

43 52

The verdict’s in on Barnett Hill’s Oak Room restaurant

Read up on the history of the quintessentially British meal

Here’s what to expect from our most recent acquisition

Say hello to the men behind the menus at our four sites

How to stay in great shape throughout the colder days

Our guide to the hottest seasonal trends to snap up

Treat yourself to a taste of Denmark’s Hygge philosophy

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Here are 10 aviation-themed watches to snap up right now

Why OPI are still leading the way in its hand and skincare

What to see and do during a visit to Kent, Sussex or Surrey

Go up, up and away on a hot-air balloon flight over Sussex

History and wildlife in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago

Find out how we pair our hotels’ wines and dishes

Why not spend your festive season at Alexander Hotels?

Putting money into paintings could lead to lucrative gains

Discover the venue of your dreams this winter season

Kent, Sussex and Surrey are idyllic places to buy a home

60

MOTORING REVIEW

64

THE GREAT DEBATE

66

COMPETITION

Check out our review of the new Alfa Romeo Stelvio SUV

Is online social media a friend or foe to the hotel industry?

Don’t miss your chance to win a luxury spa day for two

We catch up with the king of cool himself – actor Idris Elba

EDITOR

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

HEAD OF DESIGN

COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR

PRODUCTION MANAGER

CONTENT CREATOR

Frederick Latty flatty@markerstudy.com

Richard Moore rmoore@markerstudy.com

Rowena Cremer-Price rcremer-price@markerstudy.com Hannah Patterson hpatterson@markerstudy.com

Nick Moore nmoore@markerstudy.com Leanne Cleaver lcleaver@alexanderhotels.com

CONTRIBUTORS

PUBLISHED BY

Catherine de Crèvecoeur Sarah Marshall Jon Reay

16 Lonsdale Gardens Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 1NU 01892 779 650 www.one-media.co

Unique Magazine is published by One Media and Creative UK Ltd and distributed under agreement by Alexander Hotels. All rights reserved.

The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. All prices are correct at the time of going to print. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited material or the return of these materials whilst in transit.

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OCTOBER

SALSIFY

A root vegetable belonging to the dandelion family, salsify is also known as the oyster plant because of its oystery taste when cooked. The root is similar in appearance to a long, thin parsnip, with creamy white flesh and a thick skin.

TOP TIPS: Salsify can degrade if broken or pierced, so look for intact roots with little to no blemishes or mushy spots. Choose salsify that’s firm and smooth, preferably with the green tops still on.

FOOD for

the SOUL

The arrival of the colder winter months is a great excuse to rustle up some warming, nutritious meals for the whole family. Here are some inspiring ingredients to get you started

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

The unsung hero of the vegetable world, knobbly, odd-shaped celeriac has a subtle, celery-like flavour with nutty overtones. Try it as mash, in big-flavoured, slow-cooked dishes, or in its classic form, and as they do in France, as a remoulade.

Up there with caviar and Champagne as one of the world’s ultimate luxury foods, oysters don’t look much from the outside, but the flesh of these bivalved molluscs is wonderfully succulent and delicately flavoured.

CELERIAC

OYSTERS

TOP TIPS: Cut celeriac will brown quickly, so place it in some water with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent discolouration, and only peel what you’re going to use. Celeriac is an ideal replacement for potato for those on a low-carbohydrate diet – you can mash it, roast it or even make chips!

TOP TIPS: Live, just-opened oysters have the best flavour, however if you don’t want to shuck them yourself, you can ask your fishmonger to do it for you, but you’ll need to eat them as soon as possible after that.

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FLAVOURS OF THE MONTH

JANUARY

TURBOT

A large saltwater flatfish, turbot is unlikely to ever win any aquatic beauty contests. With lumpy brown skin and a tiny head, a turbot could only be loved by its mother, but it makes up for this with its delicious delicate white flesh.

TOP TIPS: It’s expensive to buy and should be cooked gently without other overpowering flavours.

FEBRUARY

WINTER TURNIPS

Turnips are creamy-white with a lovely purple, red or greenish upper part where the taproot has been exposed to sunlight. They’re a good source of vitamin C, and before the arrival of the potato, were one of the main sources of sustenance for the English peasantry.

TOP TIPS: Choose smaller, younger turnips for their sweetness and delicate flavour. They should be heavy for their size, with firmly attached roots and unblemished skin. If still attached, the leaves should be bright green and fresh-looking.

MARCH

SARDINES

Sardines are named after the island of Sardinia, where they were once available in abundance. Found in shoals throughout the Atlantic and Mediterranean, they have a silver skin and a rich-flavoured flesh that’s dark in colour. A very healthy, oily fish, older sardines are known as pilchards. Tinned sardines are also common, and while they lack the subtlety of taste of the fresh fish, they’re a useful store cupboard ingredient.

TOP TIPS: Sardines don’t travel well, so choose fish caught as locally as possible. Select bright-eyed, fresh-looking fish with shiny skin.

APRIL

SORREL

Sorrel has a sharp, lemony flavour, with the name deriving from the French for ‘sour’

TOP TIPS: Make sure that the leaves are bright green, crisp and fresh. It’s also a wonderful herb to grow from home.

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COCKTAILS

THE RASPBERRY KISS INGREDIENTS Fresh raspberries 30ml vodka 25ml grenadine 100ml cranberry juice Cream Finely shaved chocolate

DIRECTIONS

Muddle the raspberries with the vodka, grenadine and cranberry juice and add ice.

Strain into a classic martini glass and pour over the cream. Garnish with the chocolate and fresh raspberries. For the complete romantic experience, we recommend enjoying this cocktail with a deep-filled bath for two with added bubbles.

CUPID’S WINTER KISS Couples looking for an extra-special way to celebrate Valentine’s Day won’t want to miss our latest seasonal cocktail at Alexander Hotels

W

e all like a nice kiss from time to time, and this one comes with a ‘wow’. In preparation for Valentine’s Day, we bring you the perfect addition to your romantic celebrations.

You’ll find a variety of delicious versions of this classic cocktail, but we’re delighted to showcase our very own Barnett Hill blend.

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HAUTE on the HILL Frederick Latty heads to Barnett Hill in Guildford, Surrey, to sample some culinary delights from the hotel’s two-AA Rosette Oak Room restaurant

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FOOD

H

otels have an uncanny way of telling stories, spilling secrets on the Surrey Hills butcher dry-aged ribeye steak with garlic and defining a sense of time and place within their walls. mushroom, braised onions, watercress and balsamic cherry tomatoes.

Accordingly, when they’re given a fresh, invigorating Delicate, tender and perfectly pink, my lamb is just what the makeover, it’s far more than just a lick of paint here and there; doctor ordered for any self-confessed carnivore. My guest, it’s a whole new perspective from which to create distinctive new although just as passionate when it comes to his meat, is even more memories and moments for their guests. enamoured of the braised onions, fervently insisting that I try them; This is the sense I get when I enter Barnett Hill in Guildford, Alexander much to my delight, they’re every bit as flavoursome as he’s promised.

Hotels’ latest acquisition, which has undergone an extensive six-month As for dessert, who are we to turn down a sweet treat to end transformation. Indeed, the newly-rated four-star manor house has proceedings? My rum-infused sticky toffee pudding with been lovingly renovated to include the two-AA Rosette-winning Oak butterscotch sauce, brandy snap tuile and vanilla ice cream is Room restaurant, where executive chef Lee Young creates imaginative wonderfully rich and decadent – the ideal way to round things off. dishes for a sophisticated, classical experience.

My guest, meanwhile, is positively giddy with his selection of My guest and I pull up our chairs in the British cheeses with pear chutney spacious dining lounge, and are and sourdough crisps. immediately spoiled by stunning views of And let’s not forget the wines, of course. the immaculately manicured gardens The restaurant’s list is as extensive as it is outside, and surrounded by the stunning, eclectic, but this evening I decide to journey stylish decor for which the hotel group has to Italy with a glass of the Parini Pinot Grigio become so renowned. From the plush delle Venezie. It’s a soft, fresh, lively option, oak-panelled walls, to the comfy, with a distinctive nose of wild flowers, beautifully upholstered chairs, the touches of honey and banana, which goes place oozes opulence and elegance fabulously with my starter. Then, it’s on in equal measure. to a glass of the Between Thorns Shiraz; But it’s the food that we’re really looking this South-Eastern Australian red is just forward to. Chef Young has brought his the thing to accompany my lamb, its culinary skills from Hampshire’s Four cherry and raspberry complemented IT’S THE FOOD THAT Seasons, where he previously served as senior by hints of spice and vanilla.

WE’RE REALLY LOOKING sous chef. Naturally, we’re expecting great To conclude the evening, we head things, and the menu doesn’t disappoint. outside to finish our drinks on the terrace FORWARD TO. CHEF To start, I can’t resist the quail Scotch egg overlooking the gardens. It’s so peaceful YOUNG HAS BROUGHT with mustard mayonnaise, Secretts baby leaf here that neither of us want to leave, HIS CULINARY SKILLS salad and crisp potato fries, while my guest is surrounded as we are by the hotel’s primly FROM HAMPSHIRE’S busy tucking into his pan-fried scallops with kept hedgerows and luscious green lawns, caramelised cauliflower purée, compressed all set against the magnificent architecture FOUR SEASONS, WHERE apple and toasted brioche. They’re both utterly of this Queen Anne-style mansion.

HE PREVIOUSLY SERVED delicious, the Scotch egg expertly cooked, and But as we make our departure, I’m AS SENIOR SOUS CHEF. the scallops so succulent that not a single comforted by the thought that our visit NATURALLY, WE’RE mouthful goes unappreciated. has made for some new memories to share, EXPECTING GREAT Next up is the main event, and I’m soon drawn stories to tell and moments to cherish at to the herb-crusted English rump of lamb with this beautiful place, and can now look THINGS, AND THE MENU onion purée, spinach, pea and broad bean forward to creating many more on our DOESN’T DISAPPOINT fricassee, whereas my guest hones straight in next visit and beyond.

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FOOD

A BRIEF HISTORY of SUNDAY LUNCH

T

Ever wondered where this quintessentially British culinary custom comes from? Read on to find out more, before pulling up a chair for a traditional feast at Alexander Hotels

he British love of beef, and particularly for lunch on a Sunday, is such a part of the national identity that even the French refer to British citizens as ‘rosbifs’ (roast beef).

It’s widely believed that the people’s love of beef began during the reign of King Henry VII in 1485. His Yeomen Warders – the royal guard – would dine on fresh roasted beef every Sunday after church, and this became such a ritual that the guards were affectionately referred to as ‘beefeaters’.

Throughout the Industrial Age, almost every household would pop a roast on before heading to church on a Sunday.

It had become an all-inclusive act with a kind of religious and social importance

to it, and as playwright Henry Fielding exclaimed, it ‘ennobled our brains and enriched our blood’.

The nobility would hang an entire animal on a spit in front of a huge fireplace and slowly roast it, while those who couldn’t afford the larger cuts of meat, let alone a fireplace, would drop

off a more modest cut to their local baker en route to church. The baker would use their empty bread ovens to cook the meat and hand it back to the villagers in time for lunch.

In those times, this was no doubt the best meal anybody had all week, and why the Sunday roast became such an important pastime.

To experience a traditional Sunday lunch within a truly historic and luxurious atmosphere, be sure to visit one of our three properties that serve this amazing British staple. Offered in our Rosette-awarded restaurants, Sunday lunch is a true favourite among our teams, and brings together a classic meal, served with a modern twist.

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A NEW LOOK for BARNETT HILL Step inside our latest hotel in Surrey for a tour of its updated bedrooms, newly launched treatment rooms, and tastiest dishes on the menu

S

ince purchasing Barnett Hill in September 2016, an extensive refurbishment plan has seen the hotel flourish into a destination of choice for leisure guests in Surrey. Now, we’re delighted to introduce you to not only our new suites, but also some of our tastiest award-winning dishes, and our brand new treatment rooms, offering you an indulgent range of Utopia experiences.

Our newly revamped suites have been designed with our guests’ comfort as a priority. Each bedroom that you enter will fill you with excitement and, dare we say it, a little ‘sexiness’. Choose to indulge in a bottle of your favourite fizz from our extensive wine list, while enjoying a soak in your own in-room bathtub.

Taking a stroll throughout the property, guests will be able to enjoy pre-dinner drinks in our newly refurbished lounge, before moving into our recently

awarded two-AA Rosette Oak Room Restaurant, serving seasonally inspired dishes, with a strong philosophy on locally sourced ingredients.

Utopia treatments are now available to book for hotel guests and local Surrey residents. Our inspiring treatment menu offers a selection of luxurious remedies, from Mediterranean-inspired massages, to bespoke facials and hand and foot pampering.

Be sure to view our treatment menu online at alexanderhotels.co.uk “This four-star Victorian mansion is sizzling from a multi-million-pound renovation: rooms are swanky, hallways are redolent of Kensington Palace, and you’ll get change from a £50 note when splashing out on afternoon tea for two. Come in summer for the exceptional gardens swooning with camellias and rose bushes.”

– Daily Telegraph, summer 2017 16

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INTRODUCTION

“THIS FOUR-STAR VICTORIAN MANSION IS SIZZLING FROM A MULTIMILLION-POUND RENOVATION: ROOMS ARE SWANKY, HALLWAYS ARE REDOLENT OF KENSINGTON PALACE, AND YOU’LL GET CHANGE FROM A £50 NOTE WHEN SPLASHING OUT ON AFTERNOON TEA FOR TWO”

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THE MEN BEHIND THE MENUS

In celebration of the unforgettable dining available at Alexander Hotels, we introduce you to the executive head chefs who provide culinary excellence at our four Rosette-winning sites Welcome to the culinary food experiences of Alexander Hotels, where food isn’t just fuel for the body, but a passion that drives our brigade of chefs to deliver dining that our guests can savour, with memories to treasure.

We’re delighted to showcase within our

four hotels a total of 12 AA-awarded Rosettes. The Rosette scheme has long been established, and successfully recognises cooking at different levels nationwide. The success or failure in achieving Rosettes is based on a single, or

sometimes multiple, visits to a hotel; it’s essentially a snapshot, whereby the entire meal, including ancillary items, is assessed.

Here, we introduce our four executive head chefs, who oversee our gastronomic offerings at Alexander Hotels...

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TEAM

DARREL WILDE

Alexander House Hotel & Utopia Spa 5 AA Rosettes Chef Darrel Wilde brings more than 14 years’ experience to his role, having worked with three highly regarded, Michelin-starred chefs, namely Raymond Blanc, John Burton and Gary Rhodes.

Chef Darrel formed part of the successful team that assisted Rhodes when he secured a win on series two of Hell’s Kitchen UK. A number of influences have shaped Darrel’s career, including a 12-year journey with Rhodes, who remains one of his biggest heroes.

Having firmly settled into his role within the Alexander House family, Darrel brings an air of calm and passion with his leadership, where he inspires his team to achieve above and beyond what’s possible. Recently celebrating a second Rosette within our Reflections Restaurant, Darrel’s ambitions are securely set on enhancing the food offering at Alexander House.

PHIL DIXON

Langshott Manor 3 AA Rosettes Chef Phil Dixon is our longest-serving head chef at Alexander Hotels, having headed up the epicurean experiences at Langshott Manor for 10 years. Phil’s career has spanned a remarkable 30 years, and has included both multi-Rosette and Michelin award-winning experience, which is clearly reflected in the dishes that he produces today.

He speaks lovingly about his grandfather, who inspired his love of locally-grown food and cookery, and these memories are reflected in the herb garden and vegetable patch that now exist at Langshott Manor. On meeting Phil, it’s clear to see that food isn’t just a job, but a way of life, as he holds a truly unique creative flare, which is driven from the heart and soul.

Phil hopes to continue his gourmet success at Langshott Manor, while striving to better both himself and his team moving forward, month on month and year on year.

LEE YOUNG

Barnett Hill Hotel 2 AA Rosettes Chef Lee Young is the newest member of the foodie family here at Alexander Hotels, having only started in February 2017. However, his ambition and talent was quickly proven on his achievement of two AA Rosettes within only months of beginning his role.

Inspired early on in his career by the three AA Rosettes held at Amberley Castle, Lee has furthered himself in the culinary world by gaining experience within a variety of Michelin-rated restaurants, most notably at Heston Blumenthal’s The Hind’s Head, Bray.

Lee embraces a locally-sourced philosophy, and showcases a remarkable talent for finding the best locally-grown and bred ingredients in Surrey. He has dreams of achieving a third Rosette for the Oak Room Restaurant at Barnett Hill, which he hopes will become a staple dining experience in Surrey.

CHRIS MANN

Rowhill Grange Hotel 2 AA Rosettes Chef Chris Mann developed a passion for cooking when he embarked on a local bakery course while at college. After mastering the art of a great Victoria sponge, he decided that cookery was a passion that he wished to pursue as a career.

After three years at college and a successful diploma, Chris moved to London, where he set out on a cooking journey within The Berkeley, Knightsbridge. During his time there, Chris progressed through the ranks, learning the art of Italian cookery, and worked lovingly on afternoon tea service.

Having advanced to a senior sous chef role, Chris moved to Rowhill Grange, and has spent an incredible 19 years as an integral member of the kitchen, where he has taken on the head chef position.

Chris cites Rick Stein, Raymond Blanc and Keith Floyd as his culinary heroes, and shows a great enthusiasm for guest satisfaction and enjoyment. He regularly explains how he’s enthused by guests’ positive feedback, and wishes to continue to drive the food and drink experience for all guests at Rowhill Grange.

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FITNESS

WINTER WORKOUTS

Just because it’s getting wetter and colder, that doesn’t mean you need to shy away from your exercise regiments. Here’s how fitness boot camps could see you through the months ahead

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raditionally, winter is a time of hibernation, as many of us will take to curling up on the sofa, binging on comfort food until spring finally arrives.

As a result, our levels of fitness and exercise can sometimes slump at this time of year, with the days growing shorter, the nights longer, and the weather gradually becoming ever-colder.

It doesn’t have to be this way, however, as fitness boot camps are a great way of keeping in shape throughout the chillier months. Originally popular in the US, these military-style regimes were brought over to the UK in 1999, and have been growing as a trend ever since.

The ultimate goal is to build strength and fitness through a variety of intense group intervals. Often starting with stretching and running, they gradually get tougher and more demanding, eventually leading into weight training, push-ups and sit-ups, and plyometrics (jump training).

Variations on CrossFit routines can be applied to lose body fat, and increase strength and cardiovascular efficiency, while many programmes offer nutrition advice as well. Frequently run by former members of the military, these sessions will certainly put you through your paces, helping you to get into a regular exercise pattern, whatever the weather’s doing outside.

It’s a great excuse to meet people too.

Indeed, they’re not called ‘boot camps’ for nothing, as you’ll be put together with a group of likeminded fitness enthusiasts, many of whom will no doubt be at a similar level when it comes to personal training. Moreover, boot camps can be incredibly social as well as invigorating, giving you a reason to get out and about and make new friends.

If you find it tough to motivate yourself to go to the gym on your own, the sense of camaraderie that you’ll experience with

your fellow boot campers will assist with adopting that ‘get up and go’ attitude to working out. In addition, these bursts of training will push you that much further than you would normally go on the treadmill, meaning that you’re more likely to see results quicker.

And with such a dedicated approach to transforming your body, your mental health can likewise benefit, as many boot camps provide social support, while the aerobic nature of the exercise and release of endorphins can work wonders on reducing high blood pressure, hypertension and stress.

So, although the nights may be drawing in and the wind and rain biting just that little bit more harshly, the rewards that you’ll gain from pushing yourself at a boot camp will make you glad that you put in the effort to brace the cold, step outside, and put your all into staying happy and healthy this winter.

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FASHION

S P O R T S LU X E This trend isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, as designers continue to embrace a relaxed approach to casual dressing, with slouchy sweaters, stretchy spandex and oversized winter coats. And the beauty of it is that you can mix this trend with more tailored pieces if you want to smarten up your casual look.

Whistles £115

Asos £39.99

Gant £250

Jacket £99 Dress £69 Both Label Lab at House of Fraser

Monsoon £59

Nike £40

Whistles £140

STYLES of the SEASON

I

To help you find that dream ensemble for the colder months, personal stylist Catherine de Crèvecoeur takes a look at winter’s top trends, outfits and looks

f you haven’t noticed already, this season is certainly not one for the fainthearted, as designers and high street names alike give us plenty to make a bold statement with. How we dress has, and will always, remain a way to express ourselves, to figure out our identity through our own personal style, and to create an armour to face the world on a daily basis. The fashion industry continues to support this idea, and now more than ever, invites us to celebrate the idea of expression and individuality through clothes.

We’ve seen a movement towards political statements with slogan-printed tops, and a nod to certain eras of fashion that remind us of a different time, from the ‘70s to the ‘90s (which makes me feel rather old now!).

While you might think that we’re continuously inundated with vast amounts of trends that keep coming and going each season, I always like to remind my clients and readers that these trends are there to be used as inspiration; a way to update your wardrobe as your style continues to evolve.

Knowing roughly what trends are out there will give you a chance to think about which of these you identify with more. Whether your style is more classic with an edge, romantic and feminine, understated, bold or eclectic, it’s important to have a good idea of what direction you’d like to take with your own style, before choosing what pieces to buy to update your current wardrobe. I’ve picked out some of this season’s key trends and great finds to help inspire you on your next shopping spree.

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CLASH OF THE PRINTS

S U I T S YO U

We’re seeing florals, checks, stripes, sequins and animal prints, all mashed up to create an eclectic look – and it works. Experiment for yourself, be bold and have fun.

Power dressing isn’t just for the office, as suits are back in force, making the two-piece look more appealing. These beautifully tailored garments are a useful, timeless staple, and can easily be mixed and matched with the rest of your wardrobe.

New Look £29

Hobbs £189 Therapy £35

Biba £69

ATP Atelier £350

Scotch & Soda £125 Marks & Spencer £69

New Look £22.99

Hobbs £119

Miss Selfridge £95 Marks & Spencer £39.50

Marks & Spencer £35

Top £100 Maison Scotch

Jacket £89 Trousers £79 Both Biba at House of Fraser

Skirt £69 Biba at House of Fraser

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FASHION New Look £39.99

TK Maxx £119 Topshop £110 Oliver Bonas £14

Linea at House of Fraser £169

Helen Moore £42

C O O L PA S T E L S

Deichmann £24.99

To think pastel hues were strictly for our spring/summer attire only is a thing of the past. From sugary pinks to mint greens and lilacs, designers presented us with new ways of introducing pastels into our winter wardrobes.

Hobbs £299

Coat £395 Michael Kors Top £69 Trousers £69 Both Biba at House of Fraser

Lulu Guinness at House of Fraser £175

Miss Selfridge £35

Studio by Preen £75

New Look £29.99

RED IS THE NEW BL ACK

This season’s defining colour, red is packing a punch with energetic hues, from cherry to ruby and berry rouge. Choose a shade that suits your complexion – the more intense, the better.

Catherine de Crèvecoeur is an experienced personal stylist and founder of STYLE Pour Moi personal styling and image consultancy services (stylepourmoi.com). She helps men and women across London and the South East gain the confidence they need to create their own signature style, whatever their lifestyle and budget.

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THE HOOGLY WAY OF LIFE Tina Gloggengieser, director of the Danish-inspired Hoogly Tea brand, explains how she infuses each and every bag with a sense of ‘security, warmth, happiness, wellbeing and balance’

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TEA

So, Tina, tell us the inspiration behind your teas I’m from Denmark and have always been passionate about food and drink, so I wanted to create tea blends that were really extra-indulgent in flavour, but with the Danish concept of Hygge.

We use 100% natural ingredients and try to create a normal blend, but make it more indulgent by giving people a more indulgent moment. The Hygge trend helped us to get noticed and recognised in the market a bit more.

Can you talk us through exactly what Hygge is?

Danish people live and breathe it, and it’s in our DNA. It’s about making time for the simple things in life, and making them extra-special. It’s a sense of security, warmth, happiness, wellbeing, balance and living in the moment, as well as being aware of everything, making time to have a good time, putting yourself first and nourishing yourself, which a lot of people unfortunately neglect, because they’re so busy.

It’s a whole language and lifestyle in Denmark, based around the things that you love and that make you feel good. It’s not a trend; it’s a lifestyle, and once people get it, they’re fascinated by it and really love it. ‘Hoogly’ is actually the pronunciation of ‘Hyggelig’, which is the adjective of Hygge, so it made sense to call it ‘Hoogly Tea’.

Is that why Denmark is considered the happiest place on Earth to live?

People do look after themselves and are well looked after over there, so they can allow themselves to make time for themselves. It’s a more comfortable lifestyle, and there aren’t the same pressures that you get in other countries. The Danish have a great attitude to life, and it’s a different culture.

Would you say the emphasis is more on the tea or the lifestyle?

It’s nice to get your foot in the door with a lifestyle, but obviously the priority is the tea itself, as that’s what I put most of the passion and love into. The teas are what it’s mainly about, but it’s nice to have the lifestyle behind it.

What goes into making your blends?

Aroma is very important, and we want people to smell, see and feel that extra indulgence. It looks nice with fresh, whole loose-leaf tea, and the aroma seduces you straightaway.

Once brewed, it’s quite flavoursome with its natural ingredients, so you have to brew it for a lot longer than your typical teabag; but that’s the whole purpose of looking forward to and cherishing it. It’s all hand-blended, and about being as eco-friendly, sustainable and natural as possible.

Are certain flavours particularly popular?

We try to include really indulgent flavours, like chocolate brownie, apple strudel, marzipan, rhubarb and vanilla, eucalyptus,

pine needles, spearmint and peppermint; there will always be a few extra-indulgent ingredients to spice it up a bit.

My favourite is sparkling wine, which is mimicking a Prosecco tea, with a really lovely and fruity taste of elderflower. I want people to actually feel and taste the experience of what the tea says it is.

Who tends to drink Hoogly Tea? Young people especially are very excited about it, and it’s going to be the future. It’s all about healthy living and drinking, and adding that extra excitement to it. We do cater for the likes of English breakfast and Earl Grey, and there are six traditional blends, but also 12 more exciting options.

Where do you see it going in the future?

We’re always going to be bringing out exciting new blends, and would like to stay focused on hotels, as that’s definitely where our market is; it’s where we fit in well, because it’s more of a luxury, high-end tea, using only the finest ingredients, so it belongs in good-quality hotels.

And your hopes for people’s experience of the drink once they’ve had it?

I want people to feel happy and content, and not feel guilty about it afterwards, because it’s really indulgent. I’d like to keep it a bit more exclusive than your average brew – I’d love for people to drink it day-to-day at home, but they have to take the time to enjoy that moment, as it’s not just a quick brew!

To find out more about Hoogly Tea, visit hooglytea.com 27

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WATCHES

THE FACE of ADVENTURE Technical watch specialists Breitling take to the skies with their latest roundup of aviation-themed chronographs. Here are 10 of our favourites for you to snap up now

AVENGER HURRICANE 12H

The Avenger Hurricane takes off in a new version in which the ultra-light, ultra-sturdy case in Breitlight – a world first – is teamed with a yellow or black dial, and high-performance Manufacture Breitling Calibre 01. A chronograph built for extremes.

AVENGER HURRICANE MILITARY

With its black avant-garde case in Breitlight, its dial with aeronautical-type numerals, and its self-winding Manufacture Breitling calibre powering an exclusive 24-hour display, the new Avenger Hurricane Military limited series proudly displays the assets of an instrument for which prowess is the norm.

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BENTLEY GT ‘DARK SAPPHIRE’ EDITION

CHRONOLINER B04

With its ultra-light chassis made of Breitlight, enhanced by bluish ‘Dark Sapphire’ tints, and its exclusive engine equipped with a ‘30-second chronograph’, the Bentley GT watch pays a vibrant tribute to the all-new Bentley Continental GT, unveiled by the British manufacturer. An exceptional instrument issued in a 500-piece limited edition.

The Breitling Chronoliner houses a Manufacture Breitling Calibre B04, powering an ultra-convenient dual time zone system, and is issued in a limited series, enhanced by its all-blue livery. An exclusive new face for this aviation chronograph, with a truly timeless look.

COLT SKYRACER

CHRONOSPACE EVO B60

The Colt by Breitling expresses its youthful, dynamic and winning spirit in a brand new model dedicated to thrill-seekers, with an avant-garde case in Breitlight, and an ultra-technical black look. Code name: Skyracer, like that of the plane flying under Breitling colours in the fabulous Red Bull Air Race.

The new Chronospace Evo B60 welcomes aboard its sturdy and light titanium case the first analogue-display quartz movement entirely developed by and for Breitling: a SuperQuartzTM chronograph calibre with 24-hour counter, central minutes and split times. An example of what can happen when independence meets performance.

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WATCHES

NAVITIMER 01 (46MM) LIMITED EDITION

SUPEROCEAN 44 SPECIAL

With its steel case framing a black and brown dial, enhanced by gold-toned hands, the new Navitimer 01 (46mm) Limited Edition proves that whatever the materials and colours, a great watch-making classic remains just what its name implies, and that the pilot’s cult model is indeed a living legend.

With its sturdy steel case, its ultra-legible dial and its rotating high-tech ceramic bezel, the new Superocean 44 Special plunges securely to a depth of 1,000m (3,300ft). This special series, with its technical and original style, is available in black or blue versions.

NAVITIMER RATTRAPANTE

SUPEROCEAN HÉRITAGE II

Breitling reaffirms its supreme mastery of chronographs by unveiling its own split-seconds chronograph movement – one of the most sophisticated horological complications.

Developed in the spirit of instruments for professionals, this Manufacture Breitling Calibre B03 (protected by two patents) is distinguished by its innovative construction.

Breitling has redesigned its Superocean Héritage line, dedicated to modern-day explorers. The result is a new face as original, pure and dynamic as ever, for this highly successful collection that’s celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2017.

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“BEAUTIFULLY MANICURED NAILS ARE NOW AN ESSENTIAL FASHION ACCESSORY...”

Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, executive vice president, artistic director, co-founder and ambassador of leading hand, nail and skincare brand OPI, reveals why the name is still such an industry leader

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BEAUTY

Tell us the background of OPI Since its emergence in 1983 as a small dental products supplier with the name Odontorium Products Inc, the company we now know as OPI has grown into a global standard bearer in the world of fashion, a trendsetter in the world of colour, and a way for millions of women to feel beautiful and glamorous every day.

OPI, the world leader in professional nail care, revolutionised the nail care industry by combining leading-edge innovation and quality products with trendsetting colours and iconic names. Thanks to the vision of OPI, beautifully manicured nails are now an essential fashion accessory, and the final touch to complete any look.

In what ways does the brand work well with Alexander Hotels?

OPI works in perfect synergy with Alexander Hotels’ spas, as OPI offers a luxurious manicure and pedicure treatment, with the first and only skincare range for hands and feet. Premium services are integral to both companies, and complement each other perfectly. Alexander Hotels provide five-star locations for customers to receive a five-star luxurious treatment with OPI. Developed to transform clients’ hands, feet and salon experience, OPI’s ProSpa treatment borrows best practices from facial skincare, perfected for hands and feet. OPI’s unique journey with colour ensures that every client leaves with their favourite shade in OPI’s premium long-wear range, Infinite Shine.

What can you tell us about your Iceland Collection for Autumn/Winter 2017?

The Iceland Collection features 12 new shades in classic Nail Lacquer, Long-Wear Infinite Shine and GelColour formulas, with colours inspired by the country’s unspoiled, otherworldly terrain.

Featuring a palette influenced by its scenic, varied landscape of volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, lava fields and glaciers, this collection offers a range of captivating, chic hues that portray the wild beauty of Iceland.

In designing the colours for the Iceland Collection, I was of course inspired by the country’s rugged, natural beauty – from the rare northern lights to majestic glaciers, Iceland is unlike anywhere else in the world!

This fall, black is the new black. Expect to see lots of varied hues of this classic shade, with sophisticated undertones of brown and grey, as well as blue hues, with denim remaining a major

trend. With the Iceland Collection by OPI, consumers have many options, from high-fashion shades of blue-grey, khaki green and orange clay, to updated, timeless deep, dark hues of blue, black, brown and berry.

Are your customers currently asking for specific looks and trends?

Clients at the moment are looking for clean, fresh, well-manicured nails, with a nude polish to complement their skin tone. If they’re asking for something more exciting, it’s still understated, with a negative space manicure, where the nail art is sophisticated and simple, graphic, sharp lines, or simple colour blocking. This works well with nude colours, and black or bright colours, for a fun twist.

Do you have any tips on how to help nails look and stay beautiful?

Maintaining your nails between manicures is very important and simple to do! Make sure to keep your cuticles hydrated with ProSpa cuticle oil, as it will help to nourish and feed the nails, encouraging healthier growth.

Always ensure that you file in one direction, so that you don’t cause the nail to split, peel or flake. If you find that there are ‘bits’ of the nail still attached to the free edge after filing, you can use a gentle buffer to remove these easily.

Why do you think the OPI brand continues to attract celebrities and famous faces around the world?

OPI’s long history of celebrity collaborations with Katy Perry, Nicki Minaj, Mariah Carey and Serena Williams, among others, creates innovative new nail lacquers that reflect the artists’ personal favourite shades, bringing the style of celebrity to every woman.

OPI continues to keep nail professionals and their clients at the forefront of innovation, with an entire range of state-of-the-art, quality products for hands, feet and nails.

OPI has been granted more than 30 patents for its innovative product ideas, which means that many OPI products are exclusive to the range.

Dedicated to the professional beauty industry, beauty professionals and consumers, OPI is committed to consistently offering products of exceptional quality; to continuing to set standards and trends; and to delivering the beautiful results that the world has come to expect from the leader in professional nail care.

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CELEBRITY

A LIFE LESS ORDINARY

He’s Hollywood’s hottest talent, but Idris Elba is more than an actor.

We take a look at why, with this star, you should expect the unexpected…

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Roles in films followed, and then in 2009 he was cast as the lead in the BBC’s crime thriller Luther, a part that has since seen him win an impressive number of accolades, including the Golden Globe award for best actor. Now, Idris Elba is one of Hollywood’s most sought-after talents. He portrayed Nelson Mandela in the film Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, appeared in Star Trek Beyond, is part of Marvel’s Thor franchise, and this year alone has starred in not one, but four major movies, including The Dark Tower – an adaption of Stephen King’s classic novel – and The Mountain Between Us alongside Kate Winslet.

THE DJ

“Fear is a really boring waste of time. You can’t live a life thinking it could go bad.”

There are some people in life who are good at everything; no matter what they turn their hand to, they seem to succeed. Idris Elba is one such person. His skills are multi-faceted. He’s the actor who captured our attention as the lead in Luther, who portrayed Nelson Mandela in an Oscarwinning biopic about his life, and whose voice is instantly recognisable – even in a Disney movie. But he’s also a worldrenowned DJ, a director, a thrill-seeker, an Officer of the Order of the British Empire... and the list seems never-ending. One thing’s for sure – there’s never a dull moment in the star’s life. Here, we take a look at the many pages of Idris Elba’s story…

THE ACTOR

“Sometimes it’s therapy, letting out stuff in my head. Sometimes it’s believability. Sometimes it’s just to do a character that I’ve never done before. I try to be really varied when I pick roles and I like to try and do characters that aren’t necessarily like me.”

Born in Hackney in 1972, Idris left school in 1998 and won a place in the National Youth Music Theatre, thanks to a £1,500 Prince’s Trust grant. His first acting role was in Crimewatch, and during the ‘90s, he had small parts in Absolutely Fabulous, The Bill and Family Affairs. He moved to New York, and landed the part of Russell ‘Stringer’ Bell in The Wire – a role that would make him a household name, especially in the USA.

“I don’t imagine that I’m going to be at the height of Calvin Harris. But I would like to be known as a good DJ who comes and kills it across festivals and smaller rooms.”

In 1986, Idris began helping an uncle with his wedding DJ business, and within a year, he had started his own DJ company with some of his friends.

He started DJing in clubs, under the moniker Big Driis, and even as his acting career took off, he kept his love for music alive, continuing to pursue his interest whenever possible.

His passion for music and DJing meant that he was able to work on the soundtracks for projects like Mandela and Luther – the title track from the Luther album was even named ‘hottest record in the world’ by Radio 1’s Annie Mac – and he’s revealed that he’ll be creating music for new project Yardie too.

In 2015, he performed a set at Glastonbury, and was also personally asked (via email, no less) by Madonna herself to be the opening act for her Berlin and London shows, and this year he performed at major festivals, including Creamfields.

For 2018, Elba has revealed that he’ll be putting out his Hiatus album and touring, while working on a TV project about DJing at the same time.

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CELEBRITY

What was once a part-time passion has become a second career for Elba, and within music circles, he’s highly acclaimed for what he does.

THE KICKBOXER

“Some people go out and buy Ferraris or a motorbike; I was interested in testing if my body can withstand extreme training.”

Idris’ acting career has seen him playing the tough guy, but last year he decided to set himself a gruelling personal challenge – to become a professional kickboxer in just 12 months. Filming his journey for TV channel Discovery, Idris Elba: Fighter saw the star travel to nine different countries across the globe, to be mentored by former world champions and the best trainers in the world. This all culminated in a professional fight in London’s York Hall, in which he was victorious. He even had some high-profile support in the form of Madonna, who shared videos and pictures of the star mid-fight.

THE DIRECTOR

“I am interested in making human stories with characters that are either full of grace or flawed. In Yardie, the audience will see a film that hopefully means something to the people.”

Not content with a career in front of the camera, Elba made the decision to add another string to his bow with directing, and this year saw him make his feature film directorial debut.

Yardie – an adaption of Victor Headley’s iconic 1992 novel of the same name – is about a young Jamaican’s rise from the streets of London to the top of the drug-dealing underworld.

Directed and co-produced by Idris, the film has been shot in both Jamaica and his native Hackney in east London, and is set for a 2018 release.

Idris himself will have a role in the film, and he was also heavily involved in the casting. In fact, there was such an overwhelming turnout for a casting call in London, which he publicised on his social

media, that the police had to be called, and the event was shut down early.

THE RACER

“The thing I’ve learnt most is that the harder I push, and the bigger the challenge is, the better I am.”

In 2014, Idris explored his love of driving in a BBC series called Idris Elba: King of Speed, a four-part programme where he took his need for speed around the world, examining the underground racing scene. Ever the thrill-seeker, and not content with just one racing series, in a year Idris filmed Idris Elba: No Limits – a documentary for the Discovery Channel, where he entered the world of motorsports, and learned how to master rally driving, drag racing, aerobatics and land speed. The star certainly pushed the boundaries, succeeding in breaking an 88-year land speed record. In a Bentley Continental GT Speed, he hit a top speed of 180.361mph, breaking the ‘Flying Mile’ record previously set by Sir Malcolm Campbell in 1927.

THE FATHER

“I love being a dad; it’s an important part of my life…more than anything, you have to make time to be with your children.”

When he’s not travelling the world for work, Idris spends time with his

two children – his daughter Isan, who was born in 2002 to his first wife Hanne Norgaard, is often seen with him at events.

In February 2015, Idris took her as his plus-one to the Oscars, introducing her to some of her favourite stars, including Ansel Elgort, and since then, she’s on his arm at most major industry events.

Idris also has a three-year-old son, Winston, who is named after his father, who sadly passed away in 2013.

Last year, he split from Naiyana Garth, the mother of his son, but is still regularly seen spending time with Winston.

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DAYS TO REMEMBER Whether you’re getting out and about for a winter walk, or exploring a grand stately home near one of our hotels, the National Trust has plenty to keep the whole family busy

STANDEN HOUSE AND GARDEN

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James and Margaret Beale chose an idyllic location with views across the Sussex countryside for their rural retreat.

Designed by Philip Webb, the house is one of the finest examples of Arts and Crafts workmanship, with Morris & Co. interiors creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The house is dressed for a weekend stay in 1925, so that you can imagine you’re a guest of the family.

A major restoration of the five-hectare hillside garden showcases year-round seasonal highlights and an award-winning plant collection. On the wider estate, footpaths lead out into the woodlands, Ashdown Forest and wider High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. nationaltrust.org.uk/standen-houseand-garden

HAREWOODS

The Harewoods estate was created over a number of years by the Victorian London stockbroker, Alfred Howard Lloyd, and forms a large part of the countryside in and 3 around the picturesque village of Outwood.

Harewoods is lovely countryside to explore on foot, and fairly flat too. The many footpaths and bridleways take you across working farmland, meadows, an ancient common and woodland. Over 100 ponds can be found, ranging from large open ponds to marshes, where keen bird-watchers may spot snipe and woodcock. nationaltrust.org.uk/harewoods

WAKEHURST

Open throughout the year, Wakehurst is the country estate of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. The varied landscape is of international significance for its beautiful botanic gardens and tree collections, as well as for its science-based plant conservation and research.

A feast for the senses, Wakehurst features natural woodland and lakes, formal gardens, an Elizabethan house (five unfurnished rooms), and the 21st-century architecture of Kew’s Millennium Seed Bank. Wakehurst marked an international conservation milestone in 2010, having conserved seeds from 10% of the world’s plant species. nationaltrust.org.uk/wakehurst

HATCHLANDS PARK

Hatchlands Park was built in the 1750s for naval hero Admiral Edward Boscawen and his wife Fanny; since then, it has housed wealthy families, a finishing school for girls and even a printing press. Today, you can visit the parkland or stop for coffee in the Kitchen Café all year round.

Take the time to wander through 400 acres of rolling parkland and woodland, one of the largest country estates in the area, and full of year-round seasonal colour. You can follow way-marked walks, enjoy the tranquillity of the quiet garden, discover areas of the garden partly landscaped by Humphry Repton, or bring the family to experience the natural adventure area for children.

The mansion is now a family home, containing tenant Alec Cobbe’s collection of paintings and fine furniture. Also on display is the Cobbe Collection, Europe’s largest collection of keyboard instruments associated with famous composers, including JC Bach, Chopin and Elgar. An early interior design commission for architect Robert Adam, his work can be seen in ceilings and fireplaces throughout

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NATIONAL TRUST

the house. Situated on the edge of the beautiful Surrey Hills and surrounded by charming villages, this peaceful location is just 45 minutes from Central London. nationaltrust.org.uk/hatchlands-park

NYMANS

One of the National Trust’s premier gardens, Nymans was a country retreat for the creative Messel family, and has views stretching out across the Sussex Weald. Today, you can recharge your batteries here; while you explore this beautiful place, discover hidden corners through stone archways, or walk along tree-lined avenues, surrounded by lush green countryside.

From vibrantly colourful summer borders, to the tranquillity of ancient woodland, Nymans is a place of experimentation, with constantly evolving planting designs and a rare and unusual plant collection. The comfortable yet elegant house, a partial ruin, reflects the personalities and stories of the talented Messel family, from the Countess of Rosse to

Oliver Messel and photographer Lord Snowdon.

There’s a large shop and plant centre with a special collection of plants grown on site, a café offering a choice of seasonal food, and a Grab & Go kiosk in the tea garden.

Every day, there are guided walks and talks in the garden and woods, a small gallery in the house with changing exhibitions for every season, a second-hand bookshop, shop tastings and mobility tours of the garden and woods.

For children, there are plenty of opportunities for natural play, geocaching in the woods, pick-up-and-go activities, and a seasonal trail. nationaltrust.org.uk/nymans

SHEFFIELD PARK AND GARDEN

This garden is a horticultural work of art, formed through centuries of landscape design, with influences of ‘Capability’ Brown and Humphry Repton. Four lakes form the heart of the garden, with paths circulating through the glades and

wooded areas surrounding them.

Each owner has left their impression, which can still be seen today in the layout of the lakes, the construction of Pulham Falls, the planting of Palm Walk, and the many different tree and shrub species from around the world.

The historic parkland forms a larger footprint for the Sheffield Park estate. Dating back several centuries, it has had many uses, including a deer park and WWII camp, and is now grazed with livestock, and home to a natural woodland play trail in Ringwood Toll.

The River Ouse runs across the bottom of the parkland, and the original meanders are still visible winding across the meadow. This area has been transformed into a wildlife haven, and is home to a diverse range of species, including kingfishers, birds of prey, butterflies and dragonflies. nationaltrust.org.uk/sheffield-parkand-garden

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UP, UP AND AWAY IN SUSSEX James Palmer, managing director, and Brian Smith, chief pilot of Sussex-based British Balloon Flights, discuss how they’re bringing the glamour, magic and majesty of hot-air ballooning back to the fore HOW DID BRITISH BALLOON FLIGHTS GET STARTED?

JAMES: It was born from an old company that used to fly passengers in this area, which Brian Smith set up over 20 years ago. Brian has been in the business for many years, and has many balloon passenger businesses around the world.

We thought that it was time that we revisited the offer, and came up with a smaller luxury arm, to bring back the glamour and the majesty of a balloon flight. So, we decided to look into setting up a luxury balloon charter business.

IS THERE A REAL SENSE OF HISTORY TO THE TRADITION?

BRIAN: The real heyday was in the 1920s, when small gas balloons were used. They were exclusive and probably flew two people at a time. It was all very lovely and relaxed, but exclusive, so we wanted to bring back the golden age of ballooning, and to have a

VIP, exclusive experience. We want our customers to have a first-class, topnotch flight, even down to the vehicle, which is top-of-the-range.

WHAT MAKES SUSSEX SUCH AN IDEAL SETTING?

JAMES: It’s one of the most beautiful places to fly in the world. Brian particularly has flown all over the world, and I’ve been fortunate to fly in a few other destinations other than the UK, but among the industry, we think that we live and operate in one of the most beautiful parts of the world to fly a hot air balloon.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO BALLOONING?

BRIAN: The main season is from May to September or October, but we can fly in the winter, when it’s a very cold, lovely, clear, frosty day. You’re not cold

because you have the burner above you, plus you’re going along with the wind, rather than pushing through it like an aeroplane. If you were flying in one of our balloon baskets, you could strike a match, and it wouldn’t be extinguished.

ARE YOU ABLE TO TAKE EVERYTHING IN ALONG THE WAY?

BRIAN: You’re going along with the wind, plus you have a 360° view, and you’re going slow enough to take everything in at about 10mph. If you see a lovely view, like a stately home or some lovely countryside, it goes past so slowly that you can look at it for several minutes.

You can hear everything from the ground, and they can hear you. Every balloon flight still gives me a thrill – it’s so unique and such an experience. We’re confident that we can deliver this exclusive experience to our customers.

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BRITISH BALLOONS

DO YOU STAY IN THE AIR FOR A SET AMOUNT OF TIME?

BRIAN: It’s about an hour – sometimes a little bit more, sometimes a little bit less.

It’s weather-sensitive, and we do have wind speed limitations and weather limitations.

We tend to fly very early in the morning and late evening, so dawn and dusk, or sunrise and sunset. The ideal conditions are light winds and a clear sky, and those two times are the two most evocative times of the day.

FOR YOU, WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF THE BALLOONING EXPERIENCE?

BRIAN: With a balloon flight, you never know what’s going to happen, what you’re going to see, or where you’re going to end up; it’s destination unknown. It’s also very intimate and gets dreamlike after a while.

We’ve flown some interesting people, and if we look back at our logbook, we can remember every flight, because of the uniqueness of what happened.

It’s rather quintessentially English and quaint. The basket is still traditionally made from wicker, and you drift off with the wind, flying low enough to take everything in, with a panoramic view. You can talk to each other, and you’re warm and cosy, flying along in this laundry basket.

JAMES: It’s a magical way of travelling, and you’ll never repeat that flight again.

You can see why it’s on quite a few people’s bucket lists, as it’s such an elegant, serene way to travel. It’s an ethereal, magical experience that’s so beautiful and calm.

It’s something that’s very different to anything else that’s happening, which makes it quite wonderful.

To find out more about British Balloon Flights, visit britishballoonflights.com

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TRAVEL

RITES OF PASSAGE in the ARCTIC

Sarah Marshall heads to the Canadian Arctic Archipelago to unearth the history, discover the wildlife and explore the terrain of this cold but beautiful cluster of islands

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legacy is something that every explorer hopes to leave behind them. But the most memorable traces of James Clark Ross’s presence at Port Leopold, on Somerset Island, are two initials and a year, 1849, carved into a rock on a bleak Arctic beach.

The letters, E and I, stand for Enterprise and Investigator, two of many ships employed in hopeless attempts to unravel the mystery of missing Royal Navy officer Sir John Franklin, who’d set out four years previously to claim the fabled Northwest Passage trade route for Britain.

It took several decades to find Franklin’s ill-fated vessels: Erebus in 2014 and, more recently, Terror, this past September. With only a few weeks of open water each year, the search posed an enormous challenge to Parks Canada.

But fortitude, determination and a spirit of exploration have always shaped the Canadian High Arctic. So too has ice;

once the biggest obstacle for explorers, it’s now melting at a rate too close for comfort, and opening up the area to cruise ships.

I’ve joined a voyage on the 96-passenger Ioffe, a Russian research vessel whose sister ship, the Vavilov, was involved in the mission to locate Erebus. Staff participants in the ambitious expedition proudly show off commemoration patches sewn onto their uniforms.

Completing the Northwest Passage, a shortcut between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, is a tightly scheduled multi-week journey, but I’ve opted for a snapshot of the cruise.

Starting in Resolute, a four-hour charter flight from Edmonton, I’ll spend seven days sailing through historic straits and a patchwork of barren islands, where sheer cliffs and sweeping glaciers conceal abundant but shy wildlife.

The residents of Prince Leopold Island show no signs of retiring, though, when we visit the largest seabird colony in the Canadian Arctic.

Swooping between serrated ridges, angelic kittiwakes are starry flickers in the indigo heavens. Thick-billed murres huddle along ledges like gossiping old ladies at a bus stop, while fledglings take a tentative sea dip with guidance from their fathers. At every level, it’s ornithological mayhem. Yet a few nautical miles away, the skies are silent.

On first impression, the Arctic appears overwhelmingly empty; shapeless plateaus are intimidating, scant vegetation is daunting, and the scale of nothingness is uncomfortably stifling.

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Even the region’s apex predator is dwarfed by its surroundings.

‘Bears of a monstrous bigness’, recorded by John Davis in the late 16th century, were initially mistaken by the British explorer for being sheep. When we enter fog-shrouded Coningham Bay, butter-cream dots in the distance arguably resemble fluffy balls of wool. In reality, there’s nothing cuddly about polar bears.

Cruising in Zodiacs (inflatable dinghies), we approach downwind so that the bears can’t detect our scent. Beluga whale carcasses scatter the shale shoreline; trapped in tides, they’re hunted by both bears and the Inuit indigenous people of northern Canada.

A large, bullish male pulls at blubbery flesh, sniffing the air to deter any foolish hopefuls from joining his table; this is strictly a meal for one. As the wind changes, we’re able to slowly creep within 200 metres of a mother and her yearling cub, as they lovingly nuzzle and cavort in a display revealing the killer’s softer side.

In total, we clock an impressive 41 bears in just three hours – a wildlife oasis in this vast, polar desert. It’s true: you have to work hard for sightings. Most of these animals are legally hunted by local communities, and have an innate fear of humans.

At Maxwell Bay, we spend an hour circling in Zodiacs, edging ever closer to a couple of walruses rolling in the surf. On Devon Island, at Dundas Harbour, a herd of musk ox disappears into a ravine as soon as we come ashore. A solitary male lags behind, only because he’s nursing a bleeding harpoon wound.

Inuit guide Ted conducts our stealth advance in a manner that only a seasoned hunter could execute. In his pocket is a knife made from polar bear bone; it took two years to craft and dry.

‘Promise me you’ll use this’, his grandfather had firmly instructed as he handed the heirloom down.

For Inuit communities unable to afford expensive imports, controlled hunting is a sustainable means of survival. It’s also their connection to a cultural heritage spanning hundreds of years; after all, they were the original Arctic explorers.

When John Rae came searching for Franklin in 1854, the Inuit were his most valuable source of information. They spoke of white men on King William Island, and one even wore the gold braid from a naval uniform as a headband. Startling reports of cannibalism, though, were not well-received in Victorian 44

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SWOOPING BETWEEN SERRATED RIDGES, ANGELIC KITTIWAKES ARE STARRY FLICKERS IN THE INDIGO HEAVENS. THICK-BILLED MURRES HUDDLE ALONG LEDGES LIKE GOSSIPING OLD LADIES AT A BUS STOP, WHILE FLEDGLINGS TAKE A TENTATIVE SEA DIP WITH GUIDANCE FROM THEIR FATHERS. AT EVERY LEVEL, IT’S ORNITHOLOGICAL MAYHEM

England; Lady Franklin even tried to discredit Rae by asking Charles Dickens to pen damning pamphlets. Although the final chapter of Franklin’s life remains inconclusive, three of his men – possibly the last survivors – were eventually found six feet under at Beechey Island.

On the day when we visit, raging winds punish the land, beating shale dunes into reluctant submission. Underfoot, 450million-year-old coral fossils are evidence that these tectonic plates were once at the Equator. Any warmth has long since gone, and it’s incredible to imagine this as a place of shelter when the sailors overwintered in 1845. We toast their simple graves with a shot of whisky, as marauding grey clouds threaten to steal the remains of our day.

Surprisingly, a kayak trip along the island’s sharp, rising coastline is less extreme than expected. As kittiwakes weave between threads of mossy granite spooling into the water, I’m struck by how lively the Canadian Arctic can be; right now, it feels overwhelmingly full.

“Pay attention to details, and there’s so much to discover,” says assistant expedition leader Eva, a tough, blonde Swede who’s

been navigating the Poles for more than two decades. “If I had one voyage left in the world, it would be here,” she says without hesitation. “So much is still unknown.”

She’s right - during our seven-day journey, covering more than a thousand nautical miles, I don’t see another ship. In a few years, of course, that will likely change. This summer, the 1,070-person Crystal Serenity sailed through the Northwest Passage, signifying that mass tourism is imminent. Whether or not this fragile environment can support so many visitors is questionable.

Equally controversial is the darker reality of increased access; the destruction threatened by climate change. Should the sleeping dragon awake, methane frozen in Arctic sea ice could double the amount of carbon monoxide in our atmosphere overnight – a thought more chilling than the biting polar air.

Ironically, the route that Norwegian Roald Amundsen eventually claimed through the Rae Strait in 1906 is almost irrelevant. Today, there are multiple northwest passages, and every year, new possibilities emerge. The opportunity for discovery is undoubtedly growing. And so is our insatiable desire to explore – at any cost.

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THE PERFECT

PARTNERSHIP

Jozsef Csato, restaurant manager at Langshott Manor, gives us an insight into his passion for food and wine pairings, and the best marriages on our menus

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airing wines can be done by using your own taste and style, or following some classic and important principles that I learned throughout my wine studies; knowledge is power and a great investment.

To be able to build up a ‘gastronomic journey’ and complement those great-looking, carefully-plated and flavourful creations leaving the kitchen of our Mulberry restaurant, it’s a priority to maintain a versatile wine list. Our wines went through a ‘refurbishment’ throughout 2017, and we’re now offering countries, styles and varieties that were never represented within the hotel previously.

When it comes to our five and seven-course tasting menus, I always look into the ingredients on the plate one by one, and try to identify the main profile of the dish. Obviously, there are some basic rules to remember to reach the peak of a tasting, while moving towards heavier and more complex beverages.

The first culinary delight on our seven-course tasting menu is a soup – a dish to truly nourish the soul. This dish works well with our classic South African Chardonnay. The winery itself has a great story, and behind the label there’s a crisp, refreshing, juicy Chardonnay with a very gentle Burgundy touch. Malolactic

fermentation gives a very smooth, creamy texture to this variety, and it’s always a favourite with any thicker-based soups, or even with a consommé.

One of the greatest pleasures of my front-facing role is that I can introduce our diners to dishes or wines that they may never have experienced before. The delight of introducing something that’s so well-received and praised upon offers such a warm feeling, and really gives you a sense of pride and achievement; food, as they say, always serves the heart.

Locally sourced fresh mackerel is a dish that’s well-received at Mulberry Restaurant, and is regularly showcased on

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our seasonal menus, presented on our current menu in two ways – as a tartare and smoked fillet (I have to confess, it’s one of my personal favourites). I recommend accompanying with a distinctive, cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc from the northern tip of the southern island of New Zealand. A pale tipple with delicacy and purity, it has an intense flavour of gooseberries, elderflower, lime and capsicum flavours, which build across the palate to a finely balanced, dry, long-lasting finish.

Another interesting part of food and wine pairings are the desserts. Can you imagine enjoying a cherry and kirsch soufflé with black forest garnish, while swirling a Negro Birbet Brachetto in your glass? A sparkling, sweet dessert wine bursting with fruits like strawberry and raspberry, it’s a glass with added ‘wow’ factor.

As an introduction to at-home cooking and pairings, I share these top tips with you…

➨When wine and food are paired well together, adding an umami component to the food will serve to increase the overall experience. So, for example, we know that steak and Cabernet Sauvignon could be a successful match; however, topping the steak with grilled mushrooms gives the overall combination even more finesse. ➨The basic ‘fifth’ taste, called ‘umami’, or savoury taste, is one of the five basic tastes (together with sweetness, sourness, bitterness and saltiness).

People taste umami through taste receptors that typically respond to glutamate. Since umami has its own receptors, rather than arising out of a combination of the traditionally recognised taste receptors, scientists now consider umami to be a distinct taste. This component is responsible for the sense of deliciousness in food such as Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, soy sauce, wild mushrooms, and most red meats.

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CHRISTMAS

FESTIVE FUN and FROLICS at ALEXANDER HOTELS There’s nothing quite like the excitement of Christmas – and what better way to enjoy the festivities than with a luxurious stay at one of our venues?

FESTIVE FOOD

Throughout December, our hotel restaurants will be presenting a selection of inspiring menus. Let our professional chefs take the reins to bring you a delicious choice of fabulously festive food, for a truly outstanding Christmas dining experience. If you fancy something a little different, why not cosy up in one of our glittering lounges and enjoy a magical afternoon tea party?

CHRISTMAS PARTIES

Alexander Hotels throw the best parties, so make sure you join us this year for a jolly good knees-up! Our beautiful locations, married with festive food, seamless service and merry music, make for an unforgettable celebration.

A HOME-FROM-HOME CHRISTMAS

The comfort of your luxury bedroom then awaits, where you can sleep silently before the next day of celebrations begins.

Want to take the Christmas season that little bit further, without the stress of spending a week behind the stove? From December 24 to 27, join us at Alexander Hotels to enjoy an exciting Christmas break, with plenty of festive trimmings.

CHRISTMAS DAY

Wake up on Christmas Day feeling cosy and relaxed, and head to the restaurant for a full English breakfast, before picking a spot in one of our glittering lounges to unwrap your Christmas gifts. Embrace the Christmas spirit all the more and sit down for another sumptuous meal – a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings! Take the afternoon as you please; retire for a nap, enjoy a winter stroll, or play traditional board games with the family. Before you retire after a day full of festivities, enjoy a few helpings from a delicious buffet supper.

CHRISTMAS EVE

Celebrations start as soon as you check in on Christmas Eve, when you’re met by a very warm welcome, mince pies and mulled wine. After a delicious showcase in the form of a fabulous feast, carriages will be arranged for those who want to attend midnight mass, while a mouthwatering selection of festive fancies will make their magical appearance for those returning from the evening service.

BOXING DAY

Christmas isn’t over yet!

Wake up on Boxing Day and enjoy a full English breakfast, then spend the morning making full use of the hotel’s luxurious facilities. Relax in the comfort of your own bedroom, or cosy up next to a roaring fire, and if you’re staying for a little longer, join us for more fabulous food at lunch.

Celebrations continue in the evening with a spectacular Boxing Day dinner.

DECEMBER 27

Wake up feeling fresh, festive and full! Enjoy your final breakfast, before gathering your gifts and bidding a fond farewell to our team.

Until next year!

To find out more and book your Christmas celebrations at Alexander Hotels, go to alexanderhotels.com 49

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THE ART OF INVESTMENT Philip Hoffman, founder and CEO of The Fine Art Group, looks at the ways in which art investment can be a potentially lucrative means of diversifying your portfolio of assets HOW AND WHEN DID YOU COME UP WITH THE IDEA OF STARTING ART INVESTMENT FUNDS?

While I was working at Christie’s in London, I couldn’t help but notice that some people were making a lot of money through the art that they bought and sold.

It was always the same people getting hold of the right deals, as they had the right market information.

After a while, having developed a strong network and knowledge of the way that the art market works – which is a very particular one – I thought to myself: “I can make these deals as well!”

The idea of pooling money together to make these deals was simply to enjoy the economies of scale that come with dealing at the higher end of the market. Having a large financial backing also puts you in a stronger position when negotiating with auction houses and dealers, which again allows you to make better deals.

The slowly developed into an additional general art investment and advisory firm.

This idea came quite naturally, after sensing that a large group of people were curious about the art market, but found it difficult to discuss its financial value with the dealers and advisors at the time, as they still considered this a taboo.

I noticed that, actually, a lot of collectors did want some information about the potential price development of their works. This is especially the case in the higher end of the market, as the prices have become so steep – if you’re spending half a million dollars on a painting, you do want to make sure that it holds its value.

WHAT DIFFERENTIATES THE ART MARKET FROM OTHERS?

The most notable difference between the art market and traditional investments, such as equity and property, is that it

doesn’t correlate so closely with geopolitics. Shortly after the vote for Brexit, the London auction houses experienced a very successful season, while the property and financial markets were still struggling months later.

WHICH CHARACTERISTICS MAKE ART A GOOD INVESTMENT?

Art has proved itself to be a good tool for diversifying assets, as well as offering investors the enjoyment of collecting art.

Many of our clients approach art investment with curiosity; they want to learn about the works that they’re investing in, and are looking for guidance and education.

When you know what you’re doing and really understand the market, or are working with someone who does, art can offer very good returns. Take Albert Oehlen – one would pay £100,000 10 years ago, £300,000 five years ago – but now his works reach over £1million.

ARE THERE MANY CHALLENGES TO MANAGING AN ART INVESTMENT FUND?

Mitigating risk is a huge part of what we do, it’s so important to understand where you can go wrong when buying and selling art. Forgery, of course, is a well-known issue, but there are often issues around the condition of the artwork, provenance and documentation. This is a problem for collectors and investors alike; the advantage of a fund is that you’re spreading the risk.

DO YOUR ART FUNDS SPECIALISE IN CERTAIN SEGMENTS OF THE MARKET?

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“IT’S IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT A LOT OF OUR CLIENTS INVEST IN ART THROUGH THEIR COLLECTIONS; THEY COLLECT WITH PASSION AND FINANCIAL INCENTIVES”

Impressionist and Modern, and Old Masters. We do this to diversify the portfolio, as each segment has different advantages and disadvantages.

For example, you have to hold an Old Master painting for longer, but the return is more stable, while a Contemporary piece can offer huge rewards for short-term investment, but tends to be riskier. Prices rise incredibly fast in the Contemporary art market.

It’s important to note that, when investing in art, you should focus on artists with a secondary market, as these will be the most liquid. Emerging artists offer good opportunities, but are far riskier.

WHO GENERALLY INVESTS IN ART FUNDS?

Typically, we find that HNWIs and families invest in funds when they want to diversify their assets. Sometimes they choose funds over collecting, as either they aren’t interested in the art, or they want to keep their collection separate.

It’s important to note that a lot of our clients invest in art through their collections; they collect with passion and financial incentives. It’s no coincidence that we launched our art advisory service in 2009, as our clients wanted guidance when buying and selling their art, and we had experience from working with the funds, and were able to remain independent from the galleries and auction houses.

A lot of collectors view their collections from a financial point of view – they have to when they’re putting so much of their wealth into them.

We have clients in over 20 countries, and have seen an increase in interest in China; the Asian art market is very interesting, and has grown substantially in the last few years.

IN WHICH RANGE IS THE INVESTMENT VOLUME OF YOUR ART FUNDS?

The value of the fund and the individual works within it change from fund to fund. One fund focuses on emerging art, and therefore a lower price bracket, while others invest in ‘Blue Chip’ artworks of over the $1million range.

We would consider Blue Chip artists to be those who sell in the major evening sales that take place at auction in May and November in New York, and June and February in London. The auction houses are very good at placing into context the artists who are important and sell successfully.

If you’re interested in investing in art, I recommend focusing in on the top of the market; focus on the artists with a strong secondary market, who have consistently gained in value.

IS THE ART MARKET INFLUENCED BY ART FUNDS?

The main impact that art funds have had on the market is the way that art is being seen in financial terms. Even if you aren’t investing in a fund, but are building a collection, it’s wise to understand the artworks’ long-term value.

In the past, collecting art was only for passion.

AND THE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH ART INVESTMENTS?

The main risk with art is its lack of liquidity – you can find yourself making huge loses when you have to sell an artwork at the wrong time.

We’ve recently launched an art-lending company, which provides owners in need of liquidity with an art-backed loan. The company holds the collateral for the duration of the loan. The art-backed loan market offers new opportunities to those who collect and invest in art; many of those seeking a loan are doing so to buy a new work for their collection.

To find out more about The Fine Art Group, visit fineartgroup.com 51

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YOUR WEDDING, YOUR WAY AT ALEXANDER HOTELS If you and your bride or husband-to-be are looking for the perfect setting to tie the knot, Alexander Hotels provide stunning backdrops against which to exchange those vows

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electing your wedding venue will undoubtedly be one of the biggest decisions that you’ll make as an engaged couple, so it’s good to start considering your options right away, to give you complete flexibility for your venue.

OUR VENUES

Deciding to marry and celebrate at Alexander Hotels means ‘your wedding, your way’, as our venues offer a variety of packages to suit your requirements.

With award-winning cuisine, pre and

post-wedding accommodation, and beautiful, bespoke wedding spaces including outdoor ceremony facilities, Alexander Hotels can provide the perfect backdrop to your big day.

ALEXANDER HOUSE HOTEL

Elegance, charm and award-winning food mark Alexander House Hotel as one of the most distinguished venues in Sussex. Wedding ceremonies and day receptions of up to 90 guests and 200 evening guests can take place in our Shelley Suite; the space is filled with natural light and has its own private garden, terrace and wedding gazebo – great for larger weddings, or for any bride and groom who wish to host a beautiful outdoor ceremony.

For guests looking for a more intimate wedding, our Wakehurst Suite can comfortably fit 15 to 30 guests, complete with its own private bar and terrace. Our Asquith and Churchill Suites are individually unique, have garden views, and are fully licensed for civil wedding ceremonies of up to 16 guests – ideal for an ‘on-the-quiet’ wedding.

WEDDING ROOM CAPACITIES ASQUITH: Suitable for two to 10 guests CHURCHILL: Suitable for 11 to 16 guests EXCLUSIVE GAZEBO: Suitable for 40 to 90 guests SHELLEY: Suitable for 40 to 90 guests/up to 200 evening guests

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WEDDINGS

ROWHILL GRANGE HOTEL

Charm and style mark Rowhill Grange as one of Kent’s most desirable wedding locations outside of London, and our unique Clockhouse venue is a terrific setting for the day of your dreams. Choosing to hold your wedding here will give you an exclusive reception and civil ceremony room, private front and back terraces, designated accommodation for your family and friends, and access to our pre-wedding changing suite and overnight honeymoon suite with Jacuzzi bath.

CIVIL CEREMONY ROOM CAPACITIES BESPOKE WEDDING GAZEBO: Minimum of 20 guests to maximum of 120 guests THE COTTAGE CEREMONY ROOM: Minimum of 20 guests to maximum of 120 guests RECEPTION ROOM CAPACITIES THE COTTAGE: Minimum of 20 guests to maximum of 40 guests THE CLOCKHOUSE: Minimum of 40 guests to maximum of 120 guests EVENING CELEBRATION CAPACITIES Minimum of 80 guests to maximum of 200 guests

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BARNETT HILL HOTEL

Choosing the setting for your wedding ceremony is important to ensure intimacy, and establish the right start to your special day. For civil ceremonies, we have a selection of delightful rooms available, including the magnificent Oak Hall, the elegant Garden Suite, and the gracious, walnut-panelled Drawing Room, with beautiful views over the gardens.

Whichever you choose, we can accommodate up to 80 guests comfortably, with all charming ceremony rooms opening out onto the spectacular entrance hall. Alternatively, should you choose a church ceremony, a wide range of rooms at Barnett Hill can host your onward reception celebrations.

WEDDING RECEPTION CAPACITIES DRAWING ROOM: Suitable for up to 45 guests GARDEN SUITE: Suitable for up to 80 guests

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LANGSHOTT MANOR

Here’s a bespoke hotel with an assortment of unique features. You can choose to exchange your vows in front of an ancient moat; enjoy an outside blessing in our secret garden; wed in our bespoke wedding gazebo; celebrate to the chimes of our bell tower; and enjoy a picture-perfect backdrop, along with our two resident ducks.

Wedding ceremonies and day receptions of up to 80 guests and 120 evening guests can take place in our Mulberry Suite; the space is filled with natural light and has its own garden and terrace – just the thing for couples who wish to host a beautiful, unique wedding with an element of the great outdoors.

WEDDING ROOM CAPACITIES MULBERRY SUITE: 80 guests MULBERRY SUITE EVENING: 120 guests WEDDING GAZEBO: 80 guests

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WEDDING in a WINTER WONDERLAND Summer weddings are all well and good, but winter can create an experience that’s utterly unique and entirely yours. We explore why the colder months can be perfect for saying ‘I do’

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ut-of-season weddings have grown in popularity over the last decade, with brides choosing to get married between November and March, instead of the traditional spring and summer months – but why?

Historically, brides would choose a winter wedding to save money, as venues often lower their prices during the colder months; however, there are now a number of reasons why individuals choose to have their wedding out of season.

With winter weddings, you can be flexible with the colour palette that you choose, as the majority of colour schemes work. Whether you use bold reds and rich purples, or pale pastels, silvers and creams, they all complement the neutral months of wintertime, and help to create your perfect wonderland.

The weather is a factor for all brides, but by having your wedding out of season, you’re already prepared for the worst.

Many of us will associate winter with cold,

dark nights snuggled close to the one we love, and this can be used to your advantage at your winter wedding, helping to create a naturally romantic setting. You can dress your wedding reception with low lighting and fairy lights, creating a magical atmosphere.

With winter weddings, meals can be a lot richer, as guests want food that’s going to keep them warm. If you’re having a winter wedding, why not create your own warm winter cocktail for guests to enjoy?

There are many options to consider other than the traditional mulled wine or winter Pimm’s.

If nothing else, your winter wonderland will always be remembered, as your wedding will stand out from all others held during the spring or summer. Guests are more likely to be available without summer holidays or other weddings to attend, and it will provide them with a reason to be excited about winter, brightening up those dark days.

We’ve come up with 10 top reasons why you should be planning to get hitched at this beautiful time of year...

IT’S A NICE DAY FOR A WHITE WEDDING

If you’re lucky enough to get a dusting of snow on your big day, your photographs will really make your wedding day look like a winter wonderland.

ROMANTIC EVENINGS

With the nights drawing in, you can start an evening party that bit sooner, which means that you have longer to enjoy it!

Dress up your venue and get the atmosphere going from the moment dusk sets in. Use fairy lights to create a magical scene, and remember that you can dress up exterior trees too.

MORE AVAILABILITY

If you’ve set your heart on a venue and are getting married at fairly short notice,

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WINTER WEDDINGS

you’ll find it much easier to get your dream date in winter. Plus, it’s even easier to book your venue if you decide to get married midweek.

A HOLIDAY SEASON

If you get married over the Christmas period and New Year, you’ll find that many people have taken time off work in any case, so if you want to have a midweek wedding, then go for it. A wedding on New Year’s Eve would be super special – what better way to start off a new year than being Mr and Mrs? Of course, winter isn’t just Christmas; you could get married over Valentine’s Day and still have a wintry theme.

A SEASONAL HIGHLIGHT

If you marry in the winter, it’s unlikely that your guests will have been to a do for a while, and they’ll be ready for a good wedding party – unlike the summer, when your guests could become wedding weary due to the amount of celebrations they’ve attended! Dressing up for an evening winter wedding is also easier in some ways, as girls can just wear a pretty cocktail frock and they’re all set to go.

HONEYMOON IN THE TROPICS

If you marry during July and August, you’re likely to have to pay more for your honeymoon, as it’s during school holiday season. You’ll also have to avoid places like the Caribbean because of hurricanes at this time.

Marry in December or the winter months, and you won’t have this issue; it’s the perfect time to visit the Maldives, South Africa or a Caribbean island.

DON’T GET HUNG UP ON THE WEATHER

If you’re marrying in winter, you don’t need to worry about whether you’re going to have rain, sun, or if it’s going to be cold. You’ll be expecting winter weather, your guests will be ready for it, and you’ll be holding your wedding indoors in any case. Okay, so if you get a snowy day, that’s a bonus, but unlike a summer wedding being held in a marquee, you won’t be anxiously checking the long-range weather forecast.

YOUR BIG-DAY LOOK

Some of us have looks that just suit winter as a time of year more than summer. If you’re fair-skinned and spend your time avoiding the sun, why not celebrate your style and be a winter princess? Enhance your big-day look with accessories in rich plums, forest greens, berry reds and scarlets.

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Horley, Surrey

HOME COUNTIES

Thinking of moving house or buying a property in Kent, Sussex or Surrey? Our hotels can be found in beautiful parts of all three areas, which are ideal for putting down your roots EAST GRINSTEAD, WEST SUSSEX

Home to Alexander House Hotel & Utopia Spa

Boasting a wealth of architectural heritage, this ancient market town is surrounded by breathtaking countryside, and home to such must-see attractions as the Bluebell Railway, the National Trust’s Standen Arts and Crafts family home, and the Kingscote Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

If you’re thinking of buying a property in the area, there are plenty of amenities available. State secondary schools right on your doorstep include Imberhorne School and Sackville School, while Brambletye School and Ashdown House are both desirable private preparatory institutions.

There’s no shortage of things to do, sights to see and places to visit either.

Discover the town in greater detail at East Grinstead Museum; unearth the botanical garden of Wakehurst, with the

world’s largest seed conservation project; or enjoy a brisk winter walk across Weir Wood Reservoir.

And with high-speed train links direct to London Victoria, this is a commuter’s paradise too, enabling families and young professionals alike to benefit from the best of both worlds. With country right outside the front door, and city just a stone’s throw away, you can easily balance a busy work schedule with an idyllic home life.

WILMINGTON, KENT

Home to Rowhill Grange Hotel & Utopia Spa

Located a little over a mile south of Dartford town centre, Wilmington is a picturesque Kent village with lots on offer for prospective homeowners. There are three secondary schools within the parish, namely Wilmington Grammar School for Boys (WGSB); Wilmington

Grammar School for Girls (WGSG); and the mixed-sex Wilmington Academy, which will help the kids to feel right at home in no time.

At the heart of the community is Wilmington Cricket Club, which has been a part of village life for more than 100 years, and is a great excuse to stay active, meet new people and get involved in the local sports scene. In addition, St Michael & All Angels Church hosts the annual Wilmington Model Railway Exhibition – a key date on the communal calendar for all to enjoy, and that’s not to be missed.

Being so close to Dartford, shopping and retail therapy is readily available.

Bluewater features over 300 stores, 50 restaurants and a 13-screen IMAX cinema, setting the benchmark for the ultimate shopping and leisure experience.

It can accommodate up to 13,000 cars with free parking, and attracts millions of visitors each and every year.

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COUNTIES

The National Trust’s Standen Arts and Crafts family home

Bluebell Railway

Weir Wood Reservoir Guildford

River Wey

Botanical garden of Wakehurst

HORLEY, SURREY

Home to Langshott Manor

Upon arrival in Horley, you’ll be treated to an eclectic mix of specialist shops and boutiques offering individual service, while Collingwood Batchellor’s flagship department store purveys a variety of homewares, gifts and furniture.

If you’re a fan of the arts, The Archway is a unique amateur theatre that can seat up to 95 in its main auditorium, and a further 40 in its studio complex. Horley Leisure Centre, meanwhile, is a state-of-the-art facility featuring a 25-metre, six-lane swimming pool, as well as a teaching pool, a fitness gym with 45 exercise stations and free weights, a four-court, multi-use sports hall, and a fitness and dance studio.

Horley railway station provides fast links to London around the clock, meaning commuting will be a breeze, whenever you need to get to work. Surrounding towns likewise

comprise Reigate and Redhill, with neighbouring Gatwick Airport and Crawley nearby too.

Plus, there’s a secondary school (Oakwood School), three primary schools (Manorfield, Trinity Oaks and Langshott), two junior schools (Yattendon and Meath Green Junior), and two infant schools available (Meath Green Infants and Horley Infants), so you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to where to send the kids.

GUILDFORD, SURREY

Home to Barnett Hill Country House Hotel

Situated on the banks of the River Wey, this vibrant town is steeped in historic heritage dating back to Saxon times, and comes complete with fantastic shops and a quaint cobbled high street.

Guildford is just 35 minutes from London Waterloo by train, and

Heathrow and Gatwick Airports are within easy reach, for all of your travelling and commuting needs.

Whether you’re strolling along the riverbanks, getting lost in the past with a Guildford Town Guide, or exploring the Medieval Castle Keep, Tudor Guildhall, Georgian Art Gallery or Guildford Castle, you’ll fall in love with the place before you know it. At Guildford Museum, you’ll find out more about local history and brush up on residents of the past, such as Lewis Carroll, who’s buried in the area’s Mount Cemetery.

Schools here include the Royal Grammar School, which dates all the way back to 1509, and the nearby Lanesborough School, which is the choir school for Guildford Cathedral, and has a long association with RGS. And with an assortment of state schools dotted throughout the town as well, parents couldn’t ask for a richer choice of educational options for their children.

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LA DOLCE VITA WHAT’S NEW?

– although the 2.2-litre diesel has been given a boost, now outputting 207bhp in its most powerful guise – and the four-wheel-drive system is the same rear-biased set-up that you’ll find on Alfa’s new saloon as well.

This is Alfa Romeo’s first SUV – no pressure – so the Italians certainly aren’t messing around when it comes to showcasing their interpretation of an off-roader. Rather than borrowing some bits from sister company Jeep, Alfa has started afresh with the Stelvio, basing it on the platform of the recently launched Giulia saloon instead. This, says Alfa, helps to keep the Stelvio’s handling in check, providing much more car-like dynamics, along with a rear-biased four-wheel-drive system.

Engines are largely shared with the Giulia too

LOOKS AND IMAGE

PA PHOTO / ALFA ROMEO

Jon Reay reviews the new Alfa Romeo Stelvio to find out what happens when an SUV gets an Italian makeover

From the front, there’s no mistaking which stable the Stelvio belongs to; Alfa’s trademark shield-shaped grille sits proudly in the centre, flanked by headlights that anyone familiar with the Giulia will be quick to recognise. In profile, the Stelvio is definitely more of a svelte

“THE ITALIANS CERTAINLY AREN’T MESSING AROUND WHEN IT COMES TO SHOWCASING THEIR INTERPRETATION OF AN OFF-ROADER”

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crossover than a stout-looking SUV, and we reckon that’s no bad thing – in fact, it belies its size far more successfully than a BMW X4 or Mercedes GLC. Inside, things are pretty impressive too.

Materials can’t really be faulted, the dash is attractive and logically designed, and the driving position is spot-on. What Alfa hasn’t quite nailed, though, is the ‘wow’ factor that Mercedes, Jaguar and even Audi manage to instil into interior design. The Stelvio’s insides are sleek and sophisticated, yes, but there are no party tricks to shout about – no fancy

quilted leather, no touch-sensitive buttons, no fancy ‘virtual cockpit’-like screen behind the steering wheel.

Similarly, while the infotainment system is miles better than that on Alfas of old, it’s not quite up there with the BMW iDrives of this world – the strangely tiny rear parking camera display alone would never have been signed off

by Bavaria’s finest. Quirks aside, though, it’s not a bad effort at all, and Alfa has clearly put some thought into a few nice details in the cabin, such as the flat-bottomed steering wheel and tactile metal paddle shifters.

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SPACE AND PRACTICALITY

Stelvio with driving dynamics in mind from the very beginning.

That philosophy seems to have paid off. From behind the modern, flat-bottomed steering wheel, you’ll find a car-like driving position and a cabin that’s more driver-focused and enveloping than in a typical SUV. Where the Stelvio really shines, though, is in the way it drives.

The steering itself is direct, accurate and – although a little bereft of feedback – delicate, without feeling over-assisted.

Despite its relatively tall body, there’s very little roll around corners (something that Alfa’s engineers are rightly proud of), and at 1,660kg for the 2.0-litre petrol, it’s 100kg lighter than even the daintiest of its German rivals too.

Combine those elements and you’ll find an SUV that’s as enjoyable around a set of corners as a well-sorted saloon or estate, and although the trade-off for all of that composure is a relatively firm ride, it’s not unreasonable or uncomfortable by any means.

Refinement isn’t bad either. We’d like a touch more soundproofing to separate the cabin from that familiar four-cylinder diesel rumble, but beyond that, the Stelvio should make for a comfortable motorway cruiser too.

Given its shapely body, the Stelvio isn’t quite as practical as some of its more traditional-looking SUV rivals – think more BMW X4 than X3, for example – but there’s easily still room for four adults and their luggage. Rear legroom is decent, the boot space is par for the course at 525 litres, and it’d be relatively easy to get child seats in and out too. Rear visibility does take a bit of a hit, though, thanks to the relatively small rear window and thick rear pillars.

Alfa has filled the Stelvio to the brim with safety kit too, so there’s technology aplenty to help prevent a crash. All of the usual 2017 bits are there – lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-path detection, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking – and although the Stelvio is yet to be tested by Euro NCAP, the Giulia saloon on which it’s based has already received a five-star rating.

BEHIND THE WHEEL

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VALUE FOR MONEY

WHO WOULD BUY ONE?

Pricing is yet to be announced for the Stelvio, but given the BMWrivalling list prices of the Giulia, expect something in the region of £40,000 for a mid-range car. That’s a dangerous place to find oneself in this market, with the likes of the Mercedes GLC, BMW X4 and Audi Q5 all circling.

To keep things simple, there are just three trim levels – Stelvio, Business and Super – and even entry-level cars get an array of standard safety kit, front and rear parking sensors, a 6.5-inch infotainment screen, keyless entry and 17-inch alloys. Upgrade to Super and you’ll get half-leather seats, bigger alloys and so on, while Business bundles in a few options above the entry-level car, but only BIK-friendly diesel engines. Above that, the options list gives you some assorted niceties, such as a posher Harman Kardon stereo with either 10 or 14 speakers, a ‘full-grain’ leather interior, a heated steering wheel and so on.

Most of the usual electronic toys, such as active cruise control, are available too, although don’t expect VW-group levels of sophistication just yet. If you’re after LED headlights, active park assist or a head-up display, you’d best take yourself off to buy that Q5 (or even a Tiguan).

As this is Alfa Romeo’s first SUV and, along with the Giulia, one of its first family-sized cars in half a decade, the Stelvio’s customers are likely to be new to the brand, snaring some ex-Audi and BMW owners.

Alfa would like to think that its customers are just a tad more discerning than the usual SUV rabble; more interested in design and handling than whether or not they can have in-car Wi-Fi. To an extent, they’ve nailed that brief – the Stelvio is probably the sweetest-handling SUV this side of a Porsche Macan, and in the looks department alone, it’s effortlessly sophisticated compared with its slab-sided German rivals.

Company car users are on the agenda too, targeted by a diesel-only trim level, imaginatively called the ‘Business’. Even the most powerful diesel chucks out a mere 127g/km of CO2 on the combined cycle – less than the equivalent Audi Q5 or BMW X3 – so it’s likely that the Stelvio should offer a competitive proposition for anyone subject to benefit-in-kind.

FACTS AT A GLANCE MODEL

Alfa Romeo Stelvio Engine: 2.2-litre diesel

TRANSMISSION Eight-speed automatic

Performance: 0-60mph in 6.6 seconds, 133mph top speed Economy: 58.8mpg (combined cycle) Emissions: 127g/km

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THE GREAT DEBATE Three more members of the Alexander Hotels team voice their opinions on a hot topic in the hospitality industry. This issue, it’s social media – is it friend or foe to the hotel trade?

ELLIE ROXBURGH

Marketing Executive at Alexander Hotels

Over the last few years, social media has not only revolutionised the way we interact with each other, but also how businesses interact with consumers, particularly within the hospitality industry.

Working within the marketing team at Alexander Hotels, I see firsthand how our guests turn to social media during every step of their booking journey, and keeping regularly engaged with our followers is almost a full-time job in itself.

Personally, I can’t remember a time before Facebook or Instagram, and I don’t know of a person who doesn’t use at least one social channel – not even my grandparents. Social media is a fantastic, engaging tool for marketers to drive brand awareness and direct bookings, as

well as promote events and engage on a personal level with followers.

However, experience has shown us that it can also have a negative impact if not managed correctly.

It’s a shame how social media has developed as a platform for silent feedback; it’s almost taken away the natural ability for guests to comment onsite about their stay, and many now hold back, using social media to air their positive and negative feelings.

Overall, I do believe that, managed correctly, social media is very beneficial to us as hotel marketers, and will only continue to grow in the coming years.

SARAH HIGGS

Assistant Revenue Manager at Alexander Hotels

From a personal perspective, I’m a self-confessed dinosaur when it comes to social media, however I have the utmost respect for the

platform that social media has become within travel and tourism.

From tweets and posts to photos and blogs, social media in all of its forms is the perfect expressive outlet for the general public; it’s where we choose to share our opinions and experiences, both positive and negative, to friends, colleagues, acquaintances, followers and likeminded individuals. For this very reason, social media has become a key to customer service, guest expectation and reputation management within hospitality.

To achieve five-star hospitality, communication is paramount between the guest and hotel. Social media offers a direct channel to guests outside their stay, to engage with their favourite hotel brands, and put to rest any queries that they may have – or, better yet, offer their feedback.

Review and social platforms are intertwined with the reaches of

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DEBATE

social media, and while every hotel would wish to be made aware of any problems during a guest’s stay, to allow them the opportunity to rectify and resolve negative situations, this is unfortunately not always the case.

Through social media, the hotel has the opportunity to respond in a professional manner to any negative feedback; it’s important that, as well as reassuring the guests of the quality of the service and product offered, important information is communicated clearly.

KATIE NORMAN

Spa and Hotel Front of House Manager at Rowhill Grange Hotel

In this day and age, social media is a huge part of everyone’s day-to-day life, as we want to get information instantly.

Social media such as Facebook and Twitter allows for deals to be posted out immediately, and can be shared easily to friends if they want to show the information to someone else. It also allows for communication between guests and the hotel to be quick; people feel comfortable communicating via these routes, as it’s convenient to them.

On a negative note, social media has limited restrictions, and anyone can post information on there. It’s a platform for a customer’s voice, and can be heard by anyone in the world.

Once a comment is posted, it can be seen by all; the information isn’t necessarily correct, but by the time the hotel gets a chance to reply, some people may have already seen the information.

Managed correctly, it can be a very powerful platform for both guests and hoteliers, and one that will continuously grow over the next few years.

“FROM TWEETS AND POSTS TO PHOTOS AND BLOGS, SOCIAL MEDIA IN ALL OF ITS FORMS IS THE PERFECT EXPRESSIVE OUTLET FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC; IT’S WHERE WE CHOOSE TO SHARE OUR OPINIONS AND EXPERIENCES, BOTH POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE, TO FRIENDS, COLLEAGUES, ACQUAINTANCES, FOLLOWERS AND LIKEMINDED INDIVIDUALS”

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WIN

YOUR CHANCE TO RELAX AND UNWIND We’re offering one lucky reader

and you’ll be automatically entered

subject to availability and not available

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To be in with a chance of winning,

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