Travel Dine Relax - Spring 2022

WELCOME H

ello and a warm welcome to our Spring issue of Travel Dine Relax.

I’m not sure about anyone else, but this winter has seemed to drag on, so what better way to lighten the mood than with some blooming fabulous colours. The emergence of spring colour palettes also inspired us to delve into the best locations to find blossom, from our own shores in the UK to the iconic cherry blossoms of Japan (page 34).

An issue of Travel Dine Relax would not be the same without some gorgeous destinations to inspire you. Editorial team member Mollie provides a heads up on getting the best out of a weekend in Berlin (page 26); while closer to home, we look at the latest getaways here in the UK. and the latest hotels opening around the globe.

Our Dine section focuses on dishes from around the globe along with interviews with some of the amazing chefs who are inspiring us to try them.

If that doesn’t whet your apetite, then pop over to our Drinks Cabinet (page 90), feature in our Relax section to see what will be tempting the tastebuds this Spring.

So whether you are planning your next holiday, looking for a staycation or just looking to read about some fascinating people and places, sit back and enjoy a delve into our Spring issue of Travel Dine Relax.

If you’re not following us already, we’d love to see you over on our social channels as we’re a socialable bunch and will be providing regular glimpses into our travels, visits and explorations.

TravelDineRelax TravelDineRelax traveldinerelax traveldinerelax travel-dine-relax Travel_Dine_Relax

Nicola

editor hello@traveldinerelax.com

CONTENT

SHOPPING

p6

DINE

A look at some of this seasons must-have fashion and outdoors accessories

T R AV E L

Delving into dishes, new openings and the latest ‘must visit’ restaurants that are tantalising the taste buds this Spring.

We also talk to talented chefs on what has inspired them to create their spring recipes, along with their must’have ingredients.

p12 26

34

Berlin Break A weekend snapshot of the best places to visit and how to make the most or a city break in Berlin.

Bloomin Marvellous A look at the best place to see some of the iconic blooms around the globe.

40

Travel Tech A first peek at some of the must have tech that can help you get the most out of your travels.

56

Staycation UK A regular, and popular feature,highlighting some of the best places to stay and explore here in the UK.

p62

RELAX

p88 92

Drinks Cabinet We’re mixing it up with a choice of alchollic and non=alcoholic drinks to help celebrate this Spring.

98

Family Fun With the Easter half term just around the corner, we take a look at some great days out to keep the whole family entertained

100

Mothers Day Inspiration From days out to luxury stays, we have Mothers Day covered in this handy feature.

We’re hugely grateful to have been able to chat to two amazing chefs about what inspires them to create beautiful dishes.

INTERVIEWS

64

72

Interview with Callum Graham Head Chef, Michelin starred Bohemia Restaurant, Jersey Interview with Harinath Govindaraj Head Chef, Gili Lankanfushi Maldives

Published by RED KIPPER MEDIA LTD 3rd Floor, 207 Regent Street London W1B 3HH Editorial hello@traveldinerelax.com

Although every care has been taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions that may occur in this issue.

Travel Dine Relax is published by Red Kipper Media Ltd Registered in England. Registered Number 13343949 Registered Office: 3rd Floor, 207 Regent Street, London W1B 3HH ©Red Kipper Media Ltd 2021 All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, recording, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise without prior permission of the publishers.

Front Cover Mount Fuji, view from Lake Kawaguchiko

ISSN No: 2754-0561 © Red Kipper Media Ltd 2021

T R AV E L

SPRING STYLE

W

hen you think of Spring then colour isn’t far behind. We’re brightening up our shopping pages with a vibrant rainbow of hues to freshen up your travel must haves this season.

1 Gold Plated Sterling Silver Ovate CZ 15mm Hoop Earrings Get glammed up for a night on the town with this pair of super sparkly hoops!

The gold plated sterling silver, ovate shaped hoop earrings are pave set at the front with a total of 88, clear, cz crystals. £25 jewellerybox, jewellerybox. co.uk 2 Vera Large Embroidery Mexican Rose Cardigan Vera is a classic cardigan. It has a three quarter length sleeve and a cropped length designed to give a vintage look.

Vera goes very well over dresses or high waisted trousers. These will be available from the 31st March £78, Palava palava.co

6 SPRING ISSUE

3 Francesca Blue Cave Jumpsuit Francesca has cool and breezy wide legs, cropped just a little. She has a comfortable elasticated waist that allows for plenty of movement bending, dancing, sitting - whilst still keeping a lovely shape. The sleeves are capped, neckline is cute, and pockets are deep. £149 Palava palava.co 4 Mimosa Hat in Navy Handmade with sustainable raffia in Madagascar. This gorgeous hat is perfect for a summer wedding as well as sunny days in the garden or at the beach. Perfect for holidays as can be rolled up for packing. Rim can also be adjusted to style as you wish. £24 BasketBasket basketbasket.co.uk 5 Alaya Collar Olive by Jolita This luxury one-of-a-kind Alaya statement collar is intricately adorned with light-catching crystals, green faux pearls and luxurious velvet ribbon.

Perfect for when you need to make an entrance. £575, Charlton Island charltonisland.com

6 Young Living Savvy Minerals Lipstick, Sweet Life Savvy Minerals by Young Living Tangerine-Infused Lipstick is formulated to bring out every woman’s unique and natural beauty. Enriched with nourishing Tangerine, sunflower seed and grapeseed oil, for an effortless, lightweight non-sticky formula. £23.85, Young Living youngliving.com 7 Sophie Allport Bees Tote Bag Stylish yet practical enough for everyday use, this gorgeous mustard yellow tote bag has a cute Bee and accompanying phrase ‘Busy As A Bee’ detailed on the side. £46 Sophie Allport sophieallport.com OPPOSITE: Emilia Mala “Not Found” & “Enhance Your Calm” silk scarves Both scarves celebrate a mix of nature, bright colours and futuristic design, “Enhance Your Calm” £85, “Not Found” £189 , Emilia Mala emiliamala.com

traveldinerelax.com

Photo by Maria Clara Lorusso

T R AV E L

8 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

T R AV E L R I G H T

L

ayers with a mix of colour and pattern are the perfect travelling essentials for adventurers. We take a look at some of the must-have accessories that should be making your shortlist this spring.

1 Thorney Scarf, Camel. Bronte by Moon The Thorney check scarf in camel from Bronte by Moon is a traditionally crafted scarf made from 100% merino lambswool. £30 Sir Gordon Bennett Ltd, sirgordonbennett.com 2 Iris Bloom – Sage This hand rolled and drawn pocket square is a quick way of adding luxurious colour to spring outfits. Made from 70% Wool and 30% Silk. £75, Millie Bridget Henry, milliebridgethenry.com

traveldinerelax.com

3 Luxury Lounge socks in alpaca – Green.

Made of 70% British alpaca wool (farmed in the West of England),and 30% wool. These lounge socks are soft and comfy and perfect for cosy evenings in. From £25.75, Heating & Plumbing London, heating-andplumbing.com

6 Personalised Brown Leather Luggage Tag, The well travelled sophisticate deserve to do their thing in style, and this luxurious luggage tag will certainly help! £16.67 Yellow Octopus, YellowOctopus.com.au

4 Scaramanga – Grooming and Make Up Roll Organiser.

This leather all in one make up and grooming roll is the item you never knew you needed but now can’t live without. Perfect for make-up brushes, combs, scissors, straight razors, razor sets and more. £42.50 Scaramanga, scaramangashop.co.uk

OPPOSITE Bespoke One-of-akind Canvas and Damask Silk Deia Weekend Bag. Reclaim Mallorca is a sustainable luxury brand for consumers who care about the items they purchase and their impact for future generations. All textiles are upcycles or production surplus. £1500, Reclaim Mallorca, reclaimsl.com Photo by @ analuiphotography

5 Oxidised Sterling Silver Ring.

Handmade sterling silver ring with an oxidised and rough finish. The ring is assayed, hallmarked and stamped in the inside. £145 Catherine Marche Responsible Fine Jewellery, catherinemarche-designs.com

SPRING ISSUE 9

T R AV E L

HOME FRESH

A

dding a touch of the outdoors into home design is a popular way of adding some escapism and calm.

Whether you’re taking inspiration from faraway climes or looking to add a fresh update, we’ve got it covered with some of our favourite accessories to get your look this season.

1 Stay Grounded Abstract Framed Canvas Art Oversized framed abstract canvas painted in pink and green hues inspired by the energising feelings that nature brings.

This minimalist abstract art is the perfect statement piece for a modern interior.

From £170 (75x105cm), Green Lili, greenlili.com 2 Hand Painted Ceramic Vase Made from stoneware this hand painted vase features a combination of rough matte and shiny gloss finishes. Each one is uniquely different from each other with no two being the same, adding to their charm and beauty. £48, Idyll Home, idyllhome.co.uk 3 Gingham Ruffle Square Linen Cushion Cover, Dusty Pink A delightful frill Gingham Square Linen Cushion Cover in Dusty Pink. £48, Rebecca Udall, rebeccaudall.com

10 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

4 Umage Clava Dine Lampshade - Light Oak with natural cord set This slatted wooden light shade is perfect for casting stunning patterns on walls and ceilings, creating slivers of light and shade to delight the eyes. £489,99 Dowsing and Reynolds, dowsingandreynolds.com 5 Sass & Belle Recycled Glass Vintage Bud Vase Pale Pink Set of Three This set of three vases are perfect for displaying spring flowers. Each is created from recycled glass in smoky pinks. £20, Sass & Belle, sassandbelle.co.uk 6 Faux Hanging Plant Not so green-fingered? This is the easiest and stylish solution for including no-maintenance plants in your home. £19.99 Lights4fun, lights4fun.co.uk 7 Sage Green Wellingtons Plant Pot This quirky plant pot made us smile, so we had to include this in our home roundup. It’s a small planter that can be used inside or out and celebrates the iconic wellington boot. £16, Dibor, dibor.co.uk

traveldinerelax.com

8 Daydreams - Merino Lambswool Throw - Sage Made from soft merino lambswool, this beautiful throw has breathable quality to help you regulate your body temperature, keeping you warm and cosy during the cooler spring evenings. It also comes with a handy storage bag for those that like to take their comfort on their travels. £120, Heating & Plumbing London, Heating-and-plumbing.com 9 Petal Flower Candle Sage Green Soy Wax Florally fabulous, this petalled candle is created from soy wax and is sure to brighten up the home. £20, Fy!, iamfy.co 10 Annie Sloan Bedroom Chalk Paint Iconic Annie Sloan paints are a great way of updating your home. This bedroom features Chalk Paint in Antoinette, Old White, Scandinavian Pink and Olive.

Annie Sloan, Anniesloan.com

SPRING ISSUE 11

Wilderness Bisate read more on p42

T R AV E L

CGI courtesy of Accor

top: Deluxe Sea View bottom: Infinity Pool

ACCOR EXPANDS ITS FOOTPRINT IN AFRICA WITH THE OPENING OF NOVOTEL & N O V O T E L L I V I N G C O N A K R Y, G U I N E A

I N T E R C O N T I N E N TA L R A S A L K H A I M A H A L ARAB RESORT & SPA OPENS ITS DOORS

Strategically located in the Centre Business District (CBD) of Conakry, in close proximity to embassies, ministers and presidential palace of the city, the Novotel and Novotel Living will find home right in the city centre, both offering easy access to important arterial roads and main leisure destinations.

IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of InterContinental® Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa, the first property for the luxury brand in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.

Novotel Living will feature 80 keys divided between 35 square meter studios and 75 square meter 2-room apartments, becoming the first aparthotel in Conakry operated by an international hotel group. It will feature luxury boutiques, a food shop, a panoramic restaurant, fitness & Spa facilities and private residential lofts.

On the other hand, the Novotel Conakry will feature 120 rooms with a prime beachfront location with shops located around the hotel. Moreover, it will also offer a rooftop lounge, a swimming pool, fitness & Spa facilities, alongside an International Conference Centre of more than 1,500 square meters, with rooms for meetings, which will make it the ideal hotel for residential seminars in the capital. accor.com 14 SPRING ISSUE

Located on the sparkling shoreline of Hayat Island, just a 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, the five-star haven brings the InterContinental life to the Arabian Peninsula, combining idyllic island style living with the warm hospitality of authentic Arabia.

The resort’s design is inspired by the three original tribes of the emirate, the Desert, Mountains and Sea, and offers 351 sea facing rooms, suites, and private pool villas, six dining outlets, and an exclusive Club InterContinental offering.

intercontinental.com traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

images courtesy of Four Seasons

W Rome LIving Room

F O U R S E A S O N S P R I VAT E J E T 2 0 2 3 JOURNEYS ANNOUNCED IN RESPONSE TO P E N T- U P D E M A N D

W H O T E L S D E B U T S I N I T A LY W I T H T H E OPENING OF W ROME

As travellers look forward to embarking on long-awaited adventures, leading luxury hospitality company Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts announces the 2023 departures of African Wonders, a family-friendly Private Jet journey; Timeless Encounters, a returning favourite itinerary; and International Intrigue, a 24-day adventure, following record interest in the Four Seasons Private Jet 2022 line-up.

W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, has announced the muchanticipated opening of W Rome. The 162-room hotel, spanning two adjacent 19th century palazzos, makes a captivating entrance as it redefines discerning hospitality in the heart of the Eternal City. Primely located on Via Liguria next to the Spanish Steps, W Rome is owned by King Street Capital Management, a global alternative investment firm, with development manager Omnam Investment Group and Italian asset management firm Kryalos SGR.

With all-time high demand and unprecedented sellout pace, the expertly curated itineraries will allow Four Seasons passengers to seamlessly explore a collection of bucket-list destinations, removing the stress of multiple commercial flights, layovers and delays. More opportunities await as the full line-up of 2023 itineraries is announced in the coming months.

fourseasonsjet@fourseasons.com traveldinerelax.com

Designed by Meyer Davis, the hotel juxtaposes the city’s traditional architecture and cultural heritage with a unique interpretation of Roman design in a way that is captivating, glamorous, and quintessentially W. An eclectic mix of colourful leather furniture meets stone walls representative of the building’s past, whilst reflective surfaces add a modern, contemporary touch.

w-rome.com SPRING ISSUE 15

T R AV E L

A N E W V I S I O N O F M O D E R N LU X U RY P R E M I E R E S I N D U B A I W I T H T H E A R R I VA L O F T H E DUBAI EDITION

E

DITION Hotels premieres in Dubai’s iconic Downtown district, a stone’s throw from the city’s world-class retail flagships, commercial district and its flourishing art, design and culture hubs. The Dubai EDITION is the brand’s latest addition in the Middle East following the success of its launch in Abu Dhabi.

The Dubai EDITION heralds a new generation of modern luxury and pays homage to Dubai’s passion for creating something entirely new. The result is an elegant, vibrant, urban hub that undeniably encapsulates the essence of this inspiring city and sets the bar for the luxury of the future. The Dubai EDITION brings a new bespoke boutique experience with the acute attention to detail and finesses that the EDITION brand is known for.

The cohesive design language flows seamlessly throughout the hotel and continues into the 275 guestrooms, including 41 suites and vast Penthouse.

Accessible from the lobby, the ground floor is home to Duomo, the theatrical Italian restaurant serving modern interpretations of the traditional cuisine. The outdoor terrace is adorned with large potted olive trees and lit by lanterns at night with views of the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, in the 16 SPRING ISSUE

near distance.

Tucked away in the lobby, Leon is a cosy speakeasystyle bar serving original custom cocktails and flavours from around the world.

On the first floor, Jolie is a lively venue serving exquisite French cuisine inspired by Mediterranean coastal flavours. Here, wall to wall portraits inspired

by Parisian high fashion sets the scene for an energetic, glamourous space to transition from morning to evening dining.

By day, guests at Thia Sky Lounge can relax, soaking up the sun and jaw-dropping views of the Burj Khalifa. Large chaise lounges and private cabanas frame the beautifully landscaped pool that sits flush atop a deck with teak wood furniture and terracotta potted plants. In the evening, Thia Sky Lounge is a cosmopolitan attraction and an idyllic spot for sundowners and fresh light bites.

editionhotels.com/Dubai traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

S I YA M W O R L D L A U N C H E S MALDIVES’ FIRST RESORT HORSE RANCH Siyam World has raised the bar once again with another new, never-done-before experience for guests: the Siyam World Horse Ranch.

One of the Maldives’ largest natural island resorts at 54 hectares – more than 25 percent larger than Aintree racecourse – Siyam World had ample space in which to purpose-build the new 15,000sqm ranch. With dedicated stabling and large fenced paddocks and fields, the fullyequipped ranch is now the proud home of four beautiful, rare breed Indian horses – meaning Siyam World guests can saddle up and start living the dream of galloping along the island’s breathtaking beaches with the wind in their hair.

Siyam World, Maldives is located in Noonu Atoll, 40 minutes’ direct seaplane ride from Velana International Airport, and also accessible via a 30-minute domestic flight to Maafaru Airport followed by a 10-minute speedboat trip.

sunsiyam.com

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 17

T R AV E L

AVA N I + K H AO L A K R E S O R T O P E N S O N T H A I L A N D ’ S S T U N N I N G PHANG NGA COASTLINE

A

vani Hotels has announced the opening of Avani+ Khao Lak Resort — a 327-key oceanfront property located on the sandy shores of Bangsak Beach in Thailand’s Phang Nga. The brand’s largest resort in Thailand by number of keys, the property serves as a launch pad for AvaniFit — the brand’s new lifestyle concept aiming to put fun and variety into hotel fitness.

The 100,000-square-metre resort combines modern design with blissful pools, family-friendly amenities and chic dining venues boasting stunning Andaman Sea views.

The resort’s AvaniFit is a dynamic, 24-hour facility that aims to challenge fitness enthusiasts with a combination of endurance and resistance training, aerobics and high-intensity interval training. Outdoor activities are key to the stay experience and range from beach assault courses and pool workouts to kayaking, on-property PADI lessons and surfing nearby.

Other wellness amenities include AvaniSpa specialises in pampering treatments and healing therapies, as well as express and kids’ spa treatments.

There are six treatment rooms and lush gardens, so guests can pamper themselves with soothing spa and 18 SPRING ISSUE

image: The Beach House

beauty treatments, then refuel and revive with healthy menus or multi-day nutrition and wellness packages.

At the two-storey AvaniKids club, Khao Lak’s largest, children of similar ages get dedicated play zones featuring age-appropriate playgrounds, board games and PlayStation corner.

At Elements, an all-day dining restaurant serving hearty breakfasts, gourmet lunches and themed dinners, local ingredients are spun into fresh dishes served in a contemporary setting. Relaxed and unhurried, The Beach House is the preferred spot for sultry sundowners and grilled seafood. Splash, a poolside venue where options range from artisan pizza to homemade gelato, will hit a note with families, while Aqua Juice Bar with its vitamin-packed cold-pressed concoctions caters to the healthconscious. The Pantry, Avani’s signature on-thego dining concept, offers wholesome salads and sandwiches, cold-pressed juices and fresh pastries.

The property sources all produce responsibly.

Excursions to Similan Islands, Phang Nga Bay or Koh Phi Phi are also on offer, as are day trips to the Takuapa Old Town or rafting through the bamboo forest. avanihotels.com traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

image: Main Pool

image: Elements restaurant traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 19

T R AV E L

top image: new dishes, MarBella Corfu bottom image: MarBella Elix

MARBELLA COLLECTION MARBELLA COLLECTION, GREECE, INTRODUCES 2022 GUEST OFFERINGS

T

he MarBella Collection, a group of three five-star luxury hotels situated in Greece, has unveiled the collection’s new for 2022 offerings. Designed with the needs of guests at the forefront, these authentic experiences provide a unique holiday environment at each separate hotel to showcase the local culture and unique setting. The MarBella Collection is introducing new restaurants to their high-end culinary portfolio, opening a new aqua park, announcing a revamped activities programme and new settings for romantic dining. Returning guests will also be delighted to see the renowned Greek Chefs Abroad Culinary Series will be back for its second year, following a successful launch in 2021.

A N E M E L I A A Q U A P A R K & N E W F A M I LY A C T I V I T I E S A T M A R B E L L A C O R F U Opening this summer, the Anemelia Aqua Park will offer guests of all ages new ways to have fun under the Corfu sun. The park will feature water slides and twisting rides for thrill-seeking children, an infinity pool where adults can relax while still keeping a supervising eye, and a whirlpool where guests can enjoy incredible views of the sea.

Additionally, in response to the growing need for travel to become a more sustainable endeavour, MarBella Corfu will be launching their revamped Grasshoppers Kids Club to include recycled materials and eco-friendly design patterns. While younger members of the family enjoy an eco-minded experience at the Worldwide Kids-operated club, adults can take part in the new fitness programme in partnership with Wellco Fitness. Through the programme, participants can book activities such as yoga, pilates, and HIIT into their itinerary through MarBella Collection’s mobile app. They can additionally enjoy a bespoke nutrition programme tailored to their individual dietary requirements and preferences.

NEW CULINARY OFFERINGS FROM MARBELLA CORFU MarBella Corfu has announced the opening of three new food & beverage venues for the 2022 Summer Season. Celeste, a French a la carte restaurant, will serve mouth-watering culinary creations inspired by Provençale cuisine. Guests will feel as though they are taking a holiday on their holiday as they step into the sophisticated and elegantly designed venue. Situated next to the water’s edge, Kum Kuat will introduce Pan-Asian cuisine to the MarBella Collection’s array of culinary offerings.

Guests can dine here ‘a la carte’ or enjoy an international breakfast buffet as part of the Breakfast Around Service as well as part of the hotel’s Ultra All-Inclusive and Dine Around programmes. The menu will include grilled octopus with date teriyaki glaze and lamb chops marinated in Cantonese sauce with smoked aubergine miso cream. Both Celeste and Kum Kuat will be available through MarBella Collection’s Dine Around programme. Finally, The Anemelia Aqua Park Bar will be opening in line with the Aqua Park itself, available on the Ultra All-Inclusive package and providing unlimited ice cream and light lunches, so families can refuel without having to step away from the fun.

20 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

, GREECE

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 21

image: MarBella Elix MarBella Collection

T R AV E L

NEW CHEF PARTNERSHIPS

E N H A N C E D E X P E R I E N C E S AT M A R B E L L A ELIX

The MarBella Collection is delighted to be welcoming two new chefs to their hotels this year, as part of the brand’s elevated culinary programme. Celebrated global chef, Yiannis Kioroglou, is collaborating with MarBella Corfu following his successful starring in MarBella Collection’s 2021 Greek Chefs Abroad Culinary Series. Kioroglou amazed guests through his five-course dinner and pairing menus that took inspiration from his work in famous restaurants across the globe.

Kioroglou is internationally known from his work as Executive Chef at La Petite Maison and La Guérite restaurants, two of the leading culinary destinations in Cannes. With a key focus on philoxenia (traditional Greek hospitality), Kioroglou is joining the MarBella Corfu team as Consultant Chef to oversee the hotel’s new restaurant openings, Celeste and Kum Kuat. MarBella Elix will also be introducing chef Gikas Xenakis, as the new Consultant Chef for fine dining restaurant, Pearl. Head Chef of award-winning Aleria Restaurant in Athens where he specialises in modern Green cuisine, Xenakis will be launching a brand new menu that captures Greek culinary tradition with diversity and creative style.

Adventure Pop Up Weeks at MarBella Elix with Sharky and George

Following the 2021 opening of MarBella Elix, the hotel has introduced a new selection of enhanced experiences across its culinary offerings and activities programming. For breakfast, guests will now have the choice of two venues. The much loved pool restaurant, Indigo, will be serving the most important meal of the day from 08:00 – 11:00 with the option to eat al fresco and enjoy the morning sea breeze. For a more authentic experience, holidaymakers can take part in the Local Dining Discovery Programme which brings guests to dine-out at local and carefully chosen restaurants.

Holidaymakers visiting MarBella Elix during school holidays can take part in a specially curated ‘Adventure Pop Up Weeks’ with outstanding kids’ entertainers, Sharky and George.

Designed for children aged 8-15 years old and taking place during half terms and the summer holidays, the programmes will take inspiration from Greek mythology, encouraging participants to jump into the fascinating history and culture of the country. Throughout the various 8 week pop ups, guests will take part in activities such as treasure hunts, spy training for mini–James Bonds, pirate days for aspiring Captain Jack Sparrows and a mini Olympics for the Georgia Taylor-Brown fan club.

24 SPRING ISSUE

As MarBella Elix continues to build on its already extensive selection of outdoor activities, this summer will introduce enhanced biking and hiking programmes. Experienced outdoorsmen can challenge themselves with more difficult routes and those who are newer to the sports will find plenty of options to match a less-experienced skillset, while still seeing Parga from a unique perspective. A new playground and outdoor recreation area has also been designed for MarBella Elix’s youngest guests – including shaded grounds with soft flooring and adventure play sections for children.

Similarly, Explore the Outside is launching a creative and immersive water sports activities programme for children aged 6 and above – little ones can dive right in and enjoy activities such as sailing, snorkelling, and pedalo riding H O N E Y M O O N S P E C I A L S AT M A R B E L L A N I D O MarBella Nido is introducing new romantic dining experiences, carefully tailored to each couple and available at the collection’s adults-only property and adjacent sister hotel, MarBella Corfu. Guests staying at MarBella Nido on a half board basis can choose to dine at any of MarBella

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

left: MarBella Corfu middle: Lobby at the Marbella Elix, Greece right: MarBella Nido Suite Hotel & Villas, Corfu

top image: new dishes, MarBella Corfu bottom image: MarBella Elix

Corfu’s restaurants, including the newest additions of Deck Bar & Grill, Celeste and Kum Kuat. On top of this, the hotel is continuing to provide private sunset cruises to Corfu Town, honeymooners spa rituals and an in-suite candlelit dinner too.

THE GREEK CHEFS ABROAD CULINARY SERIES Following the incredible success of the inaugural Greek Chefs Abroad Culinary Series in 2021, the esteemed series will be returning this year with an equally impressive programme – this time, taking place across all three hotels. Bringing together a stellar line up of Greek chefs from across the globe to work their magic with the collection’s in-house chefs, exclusive ‘MarBella Collection’ menus will be curated inspired by traditionally Greek recipes and ingredients. These gastronomic events will be centred around authentic Greek and Mediterranean food with an international flair to offer guests a truly unique culinary adventure.

Rooms at MarBella Elix start from £121/€139 per night per room on a half board basis. marbella.gr/marbella-elix/ MarBella Nido will offer rooms from £135/€153 per night on a B&B basis (based on two people sharing). marbella.gr/ marbella-nido/corfu-honeymoon-hotel MarBella Corfu offers a Family Garden View Room from £145/€173 per night on a half board basis (based on a family of 4 sharing) .marbella.gr marbella.gr.

traveldinerelax.com

“At MarBella Collection, our focus is to offer luxury experiences of the highest standard to guests at different stages in their life.

With this in mind, MarBella Corfu, ever so popular with families, is adding this year a state-of-the art Aqua Park, the first of its kind within a five star hotel in Corfu and guaranteed to provide lots of excitement to our younger guests. Following from the success of the Greek Chefs Abroad culinary festival inaugurated last summer, we are thrilled to announce our collaboration with celebrated Chef Yiannis Kioroglou, known for its work at La Petite Maison and La Guerite in Cannes who will oversee the menus at our two brand new restaurants at MarBella Corfu, the french Provencal Celeste and the Pan-Asian Kum Kuat which will further enhance the culinary offering in the hotel. In line with the undeniable trend of travellers looking to enjoy more experiences post-pandemic as part of their holiday, we are expanding the range of excursions and tours organised by our MarBella Exclusive Services team including historic and gastronomic tours, winery and olive grove visits and much more.”

- Periklis Gompakis, Director of Sales & Marketing The MarBella Collection SPRING ISSUE 25

T R AV E L

BERLIN CITYBREAK

W

e’re huge fans of city breaks. The ability to take a snapshot of culture and cram in discovering new sights and sounds into a weekend may seem like a tall ask, but with some planning and research, they can be just as enriching and fulfilling as a long-stay break.

Editorial team member Mollie took the opportunity to visit Berlin and passes on her top tips for making the most of this rich, vibrant city.

by Mollie Kent

Berlin is one of those cities you have to experience to understand why it is like nowhere else. It’s a city that sets trends, whether music, fashion or food, and it is full of hidden gems that make it stand out from other short stay locations. Its turbulent history has seen it re-emerge with an impressive modernist architecture full of utopian aesthetics. From Bauhaus to Brutalist, a walk from Brandenburg to one of the many bars provides an opportunity to absorb yourself in the cities rich tapestry. If you’re short on time and budget, you’ll find that most of the iconic monuments are located in the centre of the city, meaning you can explore them all relatively easily and only have to pay the price of travel.

Top of your itinerary should be the Berlin Wall. It has now been covered in graffiti highlighting the rebellion against the repression and division the Wall brought to the everyday lives of Berliners. This, along with Checkpoint Charlie, is a great place to understand the history of Berlin.

Although there are so many unique bars to choose from, a key one I would recommend is the Berliner Republik. It is located on the river Seine and boasts 18 different German beers sold in a stock market-style, along with a myriad of Berlin dishes, including the traditional Currywurst. If you are looking for a fine dining restaurant for date night, on the 12th floor of Vienna house Andels, you can

26 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

Image: View over Berlin

find SkyKitchen, an unpretentious Michelin star restaurant with amazing views of Berlin.

artists on around 2,000 square meters in Berlin’s gallery mile, Auguststraße.

Finally, there are many things to see, but I found the perfect way to nurse a sore head after a night in the Berghain is to walk through Museum Island, where you will find a traditional market full of antiques and food vans whilst you follow the path along the river.

In May 2022, the first museum in Berlin to honour the Berlin painter, graphic artist and caricaturist George Grosz will open with its own museum. The location: a converted petrol station from the 1950s in Berlin-Schöneberg on Bülowstraße near Nollendorfplatz. The “Kleines Grosz Museum” will feature works of art by the Berlin painter to whom Dadaism goes back.

I think what makes Berlin a place you truly have to visit is that it is so unapologetically itself. Although millions of tourists visit a year, it doesn’t let its popularity as a destination change it, and you either become a part of it or they won’t let you in!

My two top tips for visiting would be embracing the culture and learning some basic German phrases.

TOP OF THE LIST FOR 2022 Along with some traditional favourites, there are plenty of new events and attractions to whet the appetite of returning travellers.

Berlin’s cultural centre, in particular, is developing dynamically and awaits its guests with new top-class museums. Starting in March, the Samurai-Art-Museum will present the art of weapons and blacksmithing of Japanese samurai culture and the works of contemporary Japanese traveldinerelax.com

The museum also shows solo exhibitions and offers an oasis in the middle of the city with a small garden and café.

The Berlin branch of the renowned Swedish photography museum “Fotografiska” is currently being built in the former rooms of the legendary Tacheles art quarter. The 5,500-square-metre space will not only feature works by world-renowned photographers but will also serve as a venue for cultural events and creative exchange. In the immediate vicinity, directly at the Humboldt Forum, the new Freedom and Unity Monument with its gigantic walk-in steel shell will commemorate the Peaceful Revolution of 1989 starting in the autumn.

>>> SPRING ISSUE 27

T R AV E L

image: Berlin Brandenburg gate

>>>

D I D YO U K N O W. . .

In 2022, an absolute public favourite will celebrate its return to Berlin: predatory dinosaur Tristan Otto advanced to superstar status within a very short time after moving into the Natural History Museum.

... Berlin is one of the few cities that has three UNESCO World Heritage sites? In addition to the famous Museum Island and the Prussian palaces and gardens, the Berlin Modernist housing estates are also among them. Furthermore, the German capital has also been bestowed the title of UNESCO City of Design and is thus included in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

For the last three years, the original skeleton of the Tyrannosaurus rex has been a guest in Copenhagen; from 2022, Berlin will once again be Tristan’s home. Staying on the topic of bones: The Computerspielemuseum presents the Wall of Hardware, the sacred bones of digital culture.

This autumn, the airport tower will open with an exhibition floor and a roof terrace offering unique views over the former Tempelhof airfield. Over the following years, this historic location will be further developed into a new creative space.

...Berlin is the only city in the world that has three opera houses holding performances? The Deutsche Oper, the Staatsoper Unter den Linden and the Komische Oper offer more than 4,400 seats to their audiences. Berlin also has more than 150 theatres and live show stages catering to all genres.

The Freedom and Unity Monument is scheduled to be inaugurated during the autumn. This 50-metre-long kinetic memorial is set opposite the Humboldt Forum’s west portal and dedicated to the Peaceful Revolution and the fall of the Wall in 1989. The Lollapalooza is one of the biggest music festivals in Europe and will take place at the Olympic Stadium Berlin from 24 - 25 September 2022.

The same weekend, the 48th BMW Berlin Marathon will once again take place through the streets of Berlin.

...Berlin is the only European city that has more museums than rainy days? On average there are 99 rainy days a year, and there are around 175 museums.

As every year, we can already look forward to this year’s Festival of Lights with the title “Vision of our future” when famous landmarks and historical places all over Berlin will be colourfully illuminated for a very special week in October.

...Berlin with its roughly 300 galleries for classical modernism and contemporary art has the largest gallery scene in Europe?

28 SPRING ISSUE

...the Gemäldegalerie (portrait gallery) at the Kulturforum, which opened in 1998, unites the collections of the Bode Museum (in the former East) and the Gemäldegalerie in Dahlem (in the former West) that were separated when the city was divided?

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

Top image: Hackesche Hofe Bottom image: Berlin Wall graffiti

...the world’s largest universal museum is being built on the Museum Island in the centre of Berlin? The Old National Gallery, the Bode Museum, the Old Museum and the New Museum with the world-famous bust of Nefertiti have already been renovated. The new James Simon Galerie connects four of the five buildings on the Museum Island. The north wing and the central section of the Pergamonmuseum are currently being modernised. Work is scheduled to be completed in 2023, after which the south wing will be renovated and the museum will be given a new fourth wing connecting the north and south wings.

Top image: Berlin sunset Bottom image: Checkpoint Charlie

... Berlin’s oldest pub is almost 400 years old and is still operating today? Zur letzten Instanz has been situated on Waisenstraße since 1621, once had Napoleon as a guest and is now also visited by numerous celebrities.

Planning your own visit, then do check out the Visit Berlin website as they have many suggested itineraries to help you get the most out of your journey.

For ideas of places to stay and what’s new in Berlin, turn over for some inspirational properties at the heart of the city.

... the central entrance building of Berlin’s Museum Island was named after the patron of the arts James Simon? The Neues Museum has him to thank for the famous bust of Nefertiti.

The historical entrances of the five individual museums will, by the way, also be retained. ... the largest Chinese garden in Europe is situated in Berlin? It is part of Marzahn’s leisure park and has an ensemble of ten ‘gardens of the world’. Visitors can take part in a tea ceremony in the Japanese garden. There are also Balinese, Korean and Middle Eastern gardens as well as an Italian Renaissance garden, shrub garden, Christian garden, English landscape garden and a maze. The 11th large theme garden is currently being created with a Jewish Garden. ... the Berlin TV tower, at a height of 368 metres, is the highest building in Germany? traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 29

T R AV E L

image: nhow Berlin

nhow BERLIN I f our focus on Berlin has whetted your appetite to explore this fabulous city and you’re looking for a property that reflects its vibrancy and energy, then look no further than the nhow Berlin hotel.

Europe’s first music hotel, nhow Berlin, located in the ultratrendy area between Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg on the bank of the Spree, is at the epicentre of city’s music and artistic scene. A work of art in its own right, nhow Berlin boasts two recording studios, a recording booth and musical instruments on order through room-service.

The hotel’s 304 rooms are the vision of New York designer Karim Rashid, who’s introduced a futuristic look in pink hues.

If inspiration strikes, there are keyboards, guitars and Bluetooth speakers on the 24hr room service menu. The hotel´s Upper Tower Suite on the 9th and 10th floors offers fantastic river views.

image: nhow spa

The hotel features its own art gallery and a terraced bar and restaurant overlooking the Spree. For those looking for an active stay, a fitness and wellness area spread over two floors, boasts a gym, spa and relaxation areas.

nh-hotels.com/hotel/nhow-berlin

30 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

image: nhow Berlin traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 31

T R AV E L

32 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

CAPRI BY FRASER BERLIN I

f you’re looking for a home from home then the Capri by Fraser Berlin serviced apartments would make the perfect Berlin retreat. Each design-inspired apartment has been carefully curated to business and leisure travellers. Located within the heart of Berlin, travellers are well placed to explore the treasures and culture of Berlin.

There are specially curated art pieces that stand out in the colourful lobby and in the 143 stylishly decorated studio or one bedroom apartments with fully-equipped kitchenettes and stunning floor-to-ceiling windows. Active guests can sweat it out in a 24/7 gym and food and drinks are served at on-site restaurant Caprilicious, with bee hives on the rooftop producing local honey, which can be purchased as a gift and also served as part of the breakfast buffet.

Capri by Fraser Berlin’s serviced apartments for short and long stays are right between Potsdamer Platz - a buzzing business and lifestyle hub - and Alexanderplatz, with its old marketplace juxtaposed against modern buildings and a 365-metre TV tower for a stunning mix of old and new. Guests can enjoy incredible views of the city from the apartment balconies.

The apartment hotel in Berlin sits in the heart of history on Museum Island - a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s also close to major multinational corporations and trendy shops, restaurants and vibrant nightlife.

Capri by Fraser Berlin’s apartment hotel has a history of its own, and there is a real life archaeological site that sits under glass in the lobby - traces of medieval occupation some 850 years ago (see top left image opposite).

Throughout the property, there are many services and facilities that keep you connected for work or play, and make new friends in curated, welcoming spaces designed for social living.

fraserhospitality.com traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 33

T R AV E L

Top image: Red tulips in the sun at the Euromast in Rotterdam Bottom image: Two cyclists near a red tulip field in Goeree Overflakkee, South Holland

BLOOMING MARVELLOUS BEST PLACES TO EXPERIENCE SEASONAL FLORALS AROUND THE GLOBE

A

s the spring season finally breaks free of the grey winter months, it’s no surprise that colour and nature grab our attention.

Not only here in the UK but around the globe, seasonal blossoms are drawing attention from travellers looking for a connection with the natural world or grabbing an eye-catching shot for that must-have social pic. For destinations, spring displays can be a welcome draw for tourists after a long winter season.

We look at some of those fancy florals creating a stir around the globe.

TULIPS Each year many travellers head to the Netherlands to absorb themselves in the colours and history of the Dutch bulb fields. The flower fields are open throughout the year and provide a tapestry of seasonal blooms to get inspired. The Netherlands produces 1.7 billion cut flowers per year, representing roughly 6.2% of global trade and making it the Silicon Valley of the flower industry. This export represents an annual revenue of 6.2 million euros.

Probably one of the most famous locations for tulips is the Keukenhof, the most famous and largest flower park in the world and just a short distance from Amsterdam. The best time to visit is between April and May, and the Keukenhof opens its doors during this time to create the biggest flower park in the world.

Divided across various gardens and pavilions, the tulips and other flowers number in the millions. Each year, Keukenhof has a different theme, meaning that returning guests are always treated to a unique display. Keukenhof attracts over a million visitors every year – an impressive amount considering the part is only open from mid-March to mid-May. If you’re planning a visit, then keep your eyes peeled for Flower Bulb Sheds. Due to the increased scale of flower bulb companies, no more than 400 out of 1500 flower bulb sheds remain, but they have become Dutch industrial heritage property and can be seen dotted around the landscape. >>>

34 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

image: Blossom at Brogdale

image: Pear blossom at Cotehele in Cornwall courtesy of the National Trust Image by Ross Hoddinott image: New Zealand lupins

APPLE BLOSSOM

PEAR

Since the Roman occupation, apples have been cultivated in the UK and are thought to originate from the Middle East. Now firmly established in the UK, their heritage and popularity can still be seen in the orchards around the UK.

Cotehele is a Tudor property and gardens nestled down in Cornwall and benefits from a mild climate. Due to its location, its orchards are often among the first in the country to bloom. The Tamar Valley was once a famous area for market gardening, with hundreds of acres of blooming orchards in spring. Today this tradition is preserved at Cotehele, where you’ll find orchards full of famous Tamar Valley Prunus ‘Shirotae’, which bursts into bloom in the middle of the tennis court.

The home to the National Fruit Collection, each year, Brodgale’s orchards brim with acres and acres of stunning blossoms. The National Fruit Collection preserves both fruiting and ornamental trees making it popular for a spot of spring blossom watching. When the flowers appear, visitors can make the most of this beautiful time of year by participating in an Orchard Tour. Their Spring Blossom Tours programme will start from the 1st of April and run throughout April & May (excluding the Easter Weekend). brogdalecollections.org LUPINS From mid-November to December, the New Zealand landscape becomes awash with lupins. While this invader from North America is viewed as problematic to New Zealand’s native species and landscape, they provide an eyecatching opportunity for blossom watchers. They can mainly be found in large numbers growing along roadsides, wideopen areas and near waterbeds.

The Mount Cook National Park, Lake Tekapo, Lake Wanaka and Isthmus Peak Trails offer a great vantage point for viewing the purples, pinks and yellow spires of colour.

36 SPRING ISSUE

The best time to visit for spring flowers is between March and May, but if you miss the pear blossoms at Cotehele, then the gardens provide a wealth of colour and inspiration throughout the year. nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele H AW T H O R N Hawthorn is a common hedgerow plant that provides a pop of colour during the spring while providing small round fruits and autumn leaf colours later in the year. It’s a hardy plant, thrives on a range of soils and exposed landscapes, and provides shelter for native animals and birds.

The Vile is an area of ancient farmland at Rhosili, where National Trust rangers and volunteers are working to restore historic boundaries and create new habitats for wildlife. A big part of this work has been planting new hedgerows with native species like blackthorn, hawthorn and crab apple.

These new hedgerows will provide homes for wildlife, and a walk in spring will be a treat for the eyes with displays of spectacular blossom.

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

image: Bright orange California Pobby (Eschscholzia) in the Antelope Valley, California, USA

CALIFORNIA POPPIES

DAFFODILS

The official state flower of California, these bright orange flowers make an appearance from Oregon down to Mexico.

If you’re lucky, you’ll experience a “super bloom” when the landscape is awash with California poppies. Other years, they may not make as bold an appearance. It can be very dependent on how much rainfall there’s been, from too much causing the grass to outgrow the poppies or too little, meaning the flowers find it hard to sprout.

These cheerful trumpeted flowers are common throughout the UK, from the countryside to our cities, they herald the arrival of spring.

A recent visit to St James’ Park, London, provided a plethora of blooms that brightened up our walk. Their city’s oasis of colour made a welcoming sight and a vivid contrast to the buildings around us.

The love of daffodils has resulted in several projects around the UK. One of these is The Newport Daffodil Days Festival, which celebrates with over 1,200,000 daffodils around the town during April. This includes swathes of flowers planted as part of their daffodil fields and events such as the Tour des Jonquilles - a bike ride past the daffodil fields, Driving Miss Daffodil where car owners don their daffy best on their cars, and Green Animals Topiary garden with curated tours among 11,000 daffodils. newportdaffydays.com

The best time to see these cheerful flowers is around midFebruary or March, and they’ll typically remain until around April and May. BLUEBELLS A native wildflower, English Bluebells grow in pockets throughout woodland areas. Each year its blue bell-shaped flowers make a welcome appearance, although they can be early or late showers, depending on the weather and conditions.

A great place to see bluebells is Wakehurst in Sussex, the home to the Millennium Seed Bank and set in 500 acres. A popular time to visit for spring blooms is April, but doublecheck their website as you will need to pre-book a time slot for garden visits between the 2nd to 24th of April. kew.org/wakehurst Alternatively, a visit to your local wood provides an excellent opportunity to search for bluebells, but remember to avoid trampling or picking any that you find.

MAGNOLIA Magnolias made an early arrival in Cornwall this year with six champion Magnolia Campbellii trees in the Great Gardens of Cornwall revealing their first fifty blooms. This is up to a month earlier than the rest of the UK according to The Great Gardens of Cornwall team. To celebrate reaching 300 blooms, The Great Gardens of Cornwall partnered with local florist Anna Sawle to create a flower arch adorned in bright Cornish flowers and topped with delicate magnolias. The spectacle was positioned at Truro Train Station on the 1st of March to celebrate the start of spring and mark the first day of Magnolia month – a key time to spot blossoming magnolias across the country. >>>

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 37

T R AV E L

Cherry Blossom at Hirosaki park in Japan Hirosaki park cherry blossoms matsuri festival in springtime season, Aomori Prefecture, Tohoku Region

38 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

Japanese geisha with Full bloom Sakura - Cherry Blossom at Hirosaki park in Japan

>>> The Great Gardens of Cornwall is a collection of thirteen of the best-known, largest, most historically and horitculaturally important gardens in Cornwall including: Antony Woodland Gardens, Bonython Estate Gardens, Caerhays Castle Spring Gardens, the Eden Project, Lamorran Gardens, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Trebah Garden, Tregothnan, Tregrehan Garden, Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, Tresco Abbey Garden, Trewidden and Trewithen. greatgardensofcornwall.co.uk CHERRY BLOSSOM One of the reasons why people in Japan have admired cherry blossoms for centuries is that their mesmerizing appearance never fails to return and inspire hope every spring.

Tohoku offers unique views of cherry blossoms in serene natural settings, typically with abundant space to relax and immerse yourself in a magical ambience.

The 10-to-14-day period where the pale pink blooms move northward gradually from Okinawa in the south to Hokkaido in the north over a few weeks starts in March. This period normally falls in late March through early April for Tokyo and Kyoto and early April through early May for Tohoku. So, it is possible to start your cherry blossom hunt in Kyoto or Tokyo, move up to the northeastern region and enjoy this famed Japanese springtime tradition in both urban and rural settings.

Castle, its moats and the red-coloured bridges over them and with Mt Iwaki, reminiscent of Mt Fuji, in the background, this park is lauded as one of the most beautiful cherry blossom spots.

The Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival is held annually between April 23 and May 5, when over 2 million visitors visit the spacious and diverse park. The 492,000-square-metre park offers various ways to enjoy the festivity: you can take a stroll through cherry blossom tunnels, admire petal filled moats, picnic under raining petals and row a rental boat in a blossom-lined moat.

Cherry trees at Hirosaki Park originate back to 1715 when the Tsugaru clan requisitioned 25 Kasumizakura cherry trees from Kyoto and planted them in Hirosaki Castle, present-day Hirosaki Park. The cherry trees continued to grow with the help of citizens, and by the early 20th century, the castle had become surrounded by splendid cherry trees. Today, the park is owned by the city of Hirosaki, and has 50 different types of cherry, including Somei-Yoshino (Yoshino), Shidarezakura (Weeping Cherry), and Yaezakura (Double Layer Cherry). For more details of the various Tohoku cherry festivals visit their website tohokukanko.jp/en/index However grey the weather is this Spring, we hope that this splash of colour and celebration of flora brightens up your day or provides some inspiration to get outside and explore.

Hirosaki Park, in Aomori Prefecture at the northern end of Japan’s main island, Honshu, is well worth the top spot on any bucket list for a forever-lasting memory of a once-ina-lifetime hanami experience. With some 2,600 carefullypruned cherry trees surrounding the 17th-century Hirosaki

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 39

T R AV E L

40 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

T R AV E L T E C H Our round up of travel tech savvy accessories to help you keep in touch, get the best and look fabulous while on your travels has landed.

1 TMA-2 MOVE WIRELESS & TMA-2 MOVE XE WIRELESS TMA-2 Move Wireless & TMA-2 Move XE Wireless is a new extension of AIAIAI’s TMA-2 headphones that are trusted by artists including Kaytranada, Venus X, Questlove, Yaeji, and Virgil Abloh – in the studio, on the road, and on stage. To create the TMA-2 Move Wireless & TMA-2 Move XE Wireless, AIAIAI has utilised a decade of development from its awardwinning TMA-2 series. Now, you can listen to music just like your favourite artists in a Bluetooth version – anytime, anywhere, on the move.

RRP £200 Aiaiai.audio 2 App In The Air App In The Air (AITA) is a multi-award-winning and free to download personal travel assistant application that helps more than six million users manage their travel effortlessly, from start to finish.

It’s a travel-lover’s “must have”, taking care of everything from choosing the right flights and hotels, getting users the best deals, and managing loyalty schemes to tracking flight delays and gate changes, crowdsourcing information about things like security wait times and airport facilities and augmented reality luggage measurement, which is helpful when travelling on multiple airlines with different baggage allowances. It even enables its users to network, meet for a coffee or share lounge access while waiting for their flights, and to share itineraries with those at home.

App in the Air is free to download, or a Premium version (with upgraded features that include real-time flight status, offline access, family notifications and automatic check-ins) costs £29.49 for 12 months.

3 Twelve South AirFly Pro A must-have for flights, the AirFly Pro is a Bluetooth adaptor that allows AirPods or other wireless headphones to be used in situations where only wired headphone jacks are available i.e. with the inflight entertainment system. Having to use the traveldinerelax.com

uncomfortable wired headphones with poor sound quality that airlines provide is now a thing of the past as AirFly Pro will allow up-to two users to easily connect their wireless headphones via Bluetooth, to the media system.

RRP £49.99 Available via Amazon or Apple 4 Devialet’s Gemini true wireless earbuds Devialet Gemini combines outstanding clarity of sound, cutting-edge adaptability and market-leading Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) technology to offer users a truly unmatched on-the-go listening experience that’s tailored to them.

The earbuds retail at £279 and are available at the likes of Amazon, Selfridges and Harrods, as well as through Devialet’s own stores and website.

5 IONIQ Skincare IONIQ ONE is a handheld wand that uses magnetic skin technology to create an attraction between your skin and the beauty product. It works with refill cartridge of TAN, BODY SERUM and/or Sun Protection and all the refill cartridges are 100ml so they’re perfect for plane’s cabin luggage!

IONIQ SUN starter kit, £249.90, IONIQ SUN refill cartridge, £19.95 IONIQ BODY starter kit, £249.90 IONIQ BODY refill cartridge, £34.99 IONIQ TAN starter kit, £269.90 IONIQ TAN refill cartridge, £34.95, www.ioniqskin.com 6 ITSKINS Nothing ruins a holiday than a smashed phone screen. save your future self a lot of time, money, and frustration with an ITSKINS phone protection case.

Iphone 13 cases from £24.99 Apple Watch cases from £24.99 Hybrid Sling from £39.99 Itskins.com SPRING ISSUE 41

T R AV E L

W I L D E R N E S S S A FA R I S A N D W H I T E D E S E R T W I L D E R N E S S S A FA R I S A N D W H I T E D E S E R T I N T R O D U C E L AT E S T A F R I C A A N D A N TA R C T I C A J O U R N E Y S

W

ilderness Safaris and White Desert have come together once again to design two adventurepacked joint itineraries featuring the best of Africa and Antarctica. Through this partnership, the companies’ shared guests will enjoy the most awe-inspiring experiences, handcrafted to highlight the best of Wilderness and White Desert’s offering. The journeys are set to take place in January 2023.

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with White Desert and celebrate the launch of its brand-new camp, Echo.

Wilderness Safaris is the first luxury safari outfitter to design these unique continent-to-continent itineraries to include Echo, and we will be extending our collaboration with White Desert to further engage adventure-seeking guests with dynamic combination conservation experiences”, said Amanda Wilson, Wilderness Safaris Vice President of Partnerships.

Wilderness is a pioneer in conservation tourism and has built a collective of remote destinations in Africa, each unique and untamed, affording a truly immersive and exclusive adventure for those seeking to discover the wilderness.

And in a corner of the world that is characterised by pristine vistas, dramatic mountain ranges and exceptional wildlife encounters, White Desert has taken the hardship out of exploration and transformed the isolated beauty of Antarctica into an exclusive backdrop for adventure, offering luxury accommodation and a host of experiences, including ice climbing, abseiling, rock climbing, and rope walking, as well as the rare highlight of visiting the South Pole. Protecting Antarctica’s future is fundamental to White Desert’s mission; in addition to supporting scientists performing groundbreaking research on the Antarctic ice shelf, White Desert’s operations leave no waste on the continent, and their camps are built with the lightest environmental footprint, similar to those of Wilderness Safaris, where all elements of their camps can be disassembled, leaving no trace.

The first itinerary, Ice & Fire: Antarctica and Rwanda, is a 20day journey that will take place from 8 January to 28 January 2023, discovering the highlights of Cape Town, Antarctica and Rwanda. After two nights at the exclusive One&Only Cape Town, a maximum of 12 guests will depart on a private jet to White Desert’s brand-new camp, Echo, boasting luxurious Sky Pods with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and dramatic views over the vast Antarctic playground guests will get to explore. During their eight-night stay, travellers will take a 2.5-hour flight to Atka Bay, where they will experience one of nature’s marvels – exclusive access to observe over 14 000 breeding pairs of penguins and their weeks-old chicks.

Additionally, guests will embark on an overnight excursion by plane to the South Pole, which fewer than 800 people visit each year. Other activities include trekking through ice waves, exploring crystal caves, fat biking and cross country skiing, accompanied by highly qualified and knowledgeable White Desert guides.

Guests will then return to Cape Town for three nights to regroup and relax while being looked after by a Wilderness Private Journeys guide. The Rwanda leg of their journey will kick off in Kigali, where they will experience this vibrant city’s bustling cultural and culinary scene before taking a short flight to Wilderness Magashi Camp for a classic East African safari.

Located in Akagera National Park, Magashi boasts prolific wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, black rhino and more. Next, guests will take a scenic helicopter flip to the award-winning Bisate Lodge. Nestled on the slopes of an eroded crater, each of Bisate’s six suites overlooks two enormous extinct volcanoes, Bisoke and Karisimbi.

During their stay, guests will trek through the rainforests of Volcanoes National Park for an hour-long encounter with a family of awe-inspiring and endangered mountain gorillas. Other activities include trekking to observe the highly entertaining golden monkey population in the park, planting trees for reforestation and connecting with the local community. Guests will be guided through Rwanda by a private Wilderness specialist photographic guide.

The 18-day second journey, Wild Desert Adventure: Antarctica and Namibia, offers two of the most remarkably remote luxury travel experiences in the world, taking guests from the ancient and remote Namib Desert to the southernmost point on Earth. Set to take place from 7-24 January, travellers begin with an overnight stay at Johannesburg’s iconic Saxon Hotel before flying to Namibia to experience the highlights of the Namib Desert. Here they explore the dramatic landscapes of the world-renowned Sossusvlei dune field, with a stay at Wilderness’s lovely desert retreat, Little Kulala. Guests then fly to Namibia’s remote north-west to experience a transformative stay at Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp to photograph the unique desert-adapted wildlife of the Hoanib Valley, ending at the surreally beautiful Serra Cafema to visit the unique and culturally rich Himba people. Guests will be guided through Namibia by a private Wilderness specialist photographic guide. After a flight to Cape Town to spend two nights at the One&Only Hotel, guests can rest before departing on a private jet flight for the South Pole to experience a six-night stay at White Desert’s Echo camp. In addition to standing on the bottom of the world, guests will enjoy the same penguin experience and activities as per the above itinerary.

“Like Africa, Antarctica has a profound effect on those who visit; we can’t help but leave deeply changed. It’s fabulous to be partnering again with Wilderness Safaris to show off our diverse landscapes and bring back the joy of mindful travel to our guests”, said Mindy Roberts, White Desert Chief Marketing Officer.

wilderness-safaris.com/white-desert 42 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

White Dessert Echo Pod

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 43

T R AV E L

THE OTHER HOUSE

T

he Other House is a totally new hospitality concept - a ‘Residents’ Club’ - launched in South Kensington this Spring.

Blurring the lines to create a new cutting-edge type of accommodation, The Other House disrupts the traditional sectors of hotels, serviced apartments and private rentals, positioning itself as a second home for its guest - think other house, for as long as they want to stay - albeit a day, a month, a year etc - this is a UK first. It’s very much more a home than hotel.

You will have never heard of the term ‘Residents’ Club’ before in hospitality as there really is no industry-standard definition. This superlative basically describes what The Other House is - it’s a one stop venue for travellers (short, long stay, business etc) - offering Club Flats, exceptional F&B, results driven wellness... It’s super stylish and what London has been calling for.

The rooms are very cleverly named ‘Club Flats’ - and are your pied-a-terre for when you’re in the city. Think masterful design by Bergman Interiors with everything you’ll ever need when away from home. Kitchenette (they even will stack your fridge with your Ocado orders!), luggage storing, amazon and Deliveroo lockers. It’s a concept for the modern traveller.

And for the public areas, restaurant and bar - finally a more refined air in South Kensington for food and beverage! There’s also a wellness area with fitness studio and treatments and a member’s club. Everything you need at your fingertips.

44 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

A N A N TA R A N E W YO R K PALACE BUDAPEST HOTEL A

nantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas has announced the addition of Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel to its portfolio, a debut in Hungary and a continuation of the brand’s European expansion. Situated in the heart of Budapest, one of the most unique and fascinating capital cities of Europe, the opulent property is an architectural ode to the Belle Époque era, exuding old-world glamour blended with contemporary luxury.

Since its construction in 1894, the palatial building has acted as a gathering place for Hungarian intellectuals and is located on the sophisticated Erzsébet Krt boulevard on the Pest side of the Danube River. Designed by famed Hungarian architect, Alajos Hauszmann, the property features Italian Renaissance, Baroque, Gothic and Art Nouveau influences.

Located just a 20-minute drive from Budapest International Airport, Anantara New York Palace is comprised of 185 guest rooms and suites, accented by centuries old art and antiques. The two Presidential Suites each boast 135 sqm of space bedecked with handmade Murano glass chandeliers, custom-designed furniture, luxurious marble bathrooms and signature Italian design features.

The addition of an Anantara Spa will offer an escape from the city with four treatment rooms and relaxation facilities. When it opens later in 2022, treatments will touch on the healing philosophies of Anantara’s Thai roots, with elements inspired by the thermal bath heritage of Budapest.

anantara.com traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 45

T R AV E L

C O U R T YA R D B Y M A R R I O T T DEBUTS IN PHUKET

C

ourtyard by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 hotel brands, has announced the opening of its newest hotel on the tropical island of Phuket, Thailand.

Located in the heart of Phuket’s old town, the 248-room Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town is set to provide a sophisticated yet comfortable environment for guests as they explore the rich culture and heritage of southern Thailand.

“We are excited to bring the Courtyard by Marriott brand to Thailand’s most famous resort destination with the opening of Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town,” said Jakob Helgen, Area Vice President of Thailand, Vietnam Cambodia, and Myanmar, Marriott International. “The opening of Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town marks Marriott International’s 46th property in Thailand and further complements our commitment to growth in the region, bringing a diversified portfolio for different types of travellers to this popular leisure destination.”

Located approximately 40 minutes away from Phuket International Airport by car, Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town is easily accessible from other regional and international destinations. The hotel is perfectly positioned in the historic centre of this charming provincial capital, allowing travellers to explore authentic local markets, such as the Sunday Walking Street Market and Chillva Market, as well as museums and temples that reflect the island’s classical SinoPortuguese and Peranakan heritage.

Guests can discover the best that Phuket offers from nearby shopping, dining, and entertainment venues. Those looking to experience Phuket’s picturesque beaches can visit the 46 SPRING ISSUE

popular Patong Beach and Kata Beach, both within less than half an hour’s drive from the hotel.

Accentuating contemporary design that encompasses comfort and functionality, the new hotel’s decor also incorporates elements of traditional Thai arts and crafts, creating a connection to the local community. Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town features 248 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, including two 140-square-mtr., Presidential Suites, which are fully equipped with an array of amenities, including flat-screen televisions, a comfortable work desk and high-speed internet access. The separate living area with a window side lounger in each suite provides guests with a perfect spot to recline, relax and enjoy the view.

Committed to suit the palate of its global guests, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant Krua Talad Yai offers authentic southern Thai cuisine and popular international dishes. The Talung Lounge provides guests with a space to indulge in the finest coffee with freshly baked cakes and confectionaries, and lastly, Kolae Pool Bar is the ideal place for guests to unwind and relax over cocktails and light bites.

Other leisure amenities at the hotel include the Kid’s Club, a dynamic space for family travellers to create new memories.

For travellers looking to stay fit while on the road, the hotel’s fitness centre and outdoor swimming pool are readily available for a swim or quick workout. The hotel also offers extensive facilities for meetings, business conferences and social events. The versatile event space includes a 660-square-meter pillarless Grand Ballroom and several flexible function spaces perfect for corporate and social gatherings. traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

“Beach lovers have always been drawn to Phuket’s tropical shores, but the renowned ‘Pearl of the Andaman’ has so much more to offer than just sun, sea and sand.

Phuket Town is a melting pot of Asian heritage, and guests can soak up the diverse spirit of the island through its art, architecture, customs and cuisine. Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town will blend this timeless culture with modern, forwardthinking hospitality to create truly memorable guest experiences in a unique setting,” said Pamela Ong, Hotel Manager for Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town. courtyardphukettown.com

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 47

T R AV E L

TOURISSIMO SARDINIA

T

ourissimo and SHS in Sardinia have announced a 7-day “Blue Zone” culinary cycling tour of Sardinia hosted by celebrated Chef Mary Sue Milliken.

Guests will experience the culinary specialities of both the coast and the mountains and discover the island’s cultural roots while cycling some of its most scenic and traffic-free roads.

Chef Milliken will play an essential role in helping guests understand and experience the local cuisine and culinary techniques that tell the story of the territory.

“Many travellers describe Sardinia as being a continent unto itself, with each area and town having diverse landscapes and local traditions,” said Tourissimo co-founder Beppe Salerno.

“Most of the recipes and dishes are surprisingly different from other areas of Italy, such as filindeu, the ‘thread of god,’ a special pasta considered the rarest in the world.”

Sardinia is one of the very few places in the world that boasts “Blue Zone ‘’ designation. This refers to areas across the globe where people live longer and have healthier, more natural lifestyles steeped in traditions that have been carried on from generation to generation. Guests will ride straight through this Blue Zone, discovering its unique historical and cultural aspects while indulging in the authentic food and wine along the way.

48 SPRING ISSUE

“We will learn the secrets of longevity on this culinary cycling adventure,” said Tourissimo co-founder Heather Dowd. “In Blue Zones, a large number of inhabitants live to be 100 or older, and their way of life, including the food and wine, is a big part of this longevity.”

“We’re celebrating the Chef Bike Tour concept with this brand-new itinerary in Sardinia, thanks to the Autonomous Region of Sardinia and its ‘Museando in Tour’ project in collaboration with local tourism operators,” said Salerno.

“It’s an honour to have celebrity Chef Mary Sue Milliken for the first time in Sardinia. She’s a champion of sustainable food systems and is deeply interested in exploring different cultures through the lens of food.”

top: Chef Mary Sue Milliken Images courtesy of Tourissimo traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

HIGHLIGHTS Experience regional cuisine not found elsewhere in Italy Enjoy a home-cooked lunch in Villasalto hosted by the local tradition keepers Lunch with a shepherd in a unique setting Explore the Village of Oliena and its wine tradition Take in a lecture about Sardinia’s Blue Zone Visit the Bronze Age site of Santa Cristina with its unique water temple.

Witness the primordial Gennargentu Mountain Range Tour Orgosolo, the painted village, famous for its murals rich with social commentary Visit Barbagia and Ogliastra, geographical and cultural areas that are the true soul of Sardinia.

Cycle a fantastic route from Genna Silana Pass Take a day fishing cruise along the Marine Protected Area of Capo Carbonara.

Bike in the rural inners island and along the Mediterranean coast Visit to the Cittadella dei Musei in the Castello district of Cagliari Lodging includes 4-star hotels. The tour is scheduled for May 29-June 5, 2022, and prices start from £3830/$ $4,995 per person double (all meals included), and e-bikes are available upon request. tourissimo.travel/chef-tours/sardinia.

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 49

T R AV E L

VOLUNTOURISM IN GRANADA GRANADA LAUNCHES NEW VOLUNTOURISM PROGRAMME FOR TRAVELLERS LOOKING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

T

he Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) has launched a new Voluntourismprogramme, offering visitors to the tri-island state a chance to engage with the local community, culture and environment by making a lasting impact through volunteering.

The new initiative is for travellers seeking authentic, sustainable and rewarding travel experiences. The programme includes a variety of volunteer programmes within multiple sectors across agriculture, environment, education, and health. Opportunities are available year-round and accessible for all types of travellers.

Petra Roach, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority, said: “We’re really excited to launch our Voluntourism programme, the carefully curated range of activities give travellers the opportunity to connect with our local people and have a truly memorable stay here in Grenada.

Grand Anse Artificial Reef Project: This charity is the brainchild of Grenada’s Dive Community who have seen first-hand the damage done by global warming. To combat the disappearance of reefs and sea life, Phil Saye at Dive Grenada spearheads building and placing artificial reefs in Marine Protected Areas. Once placed the artificial reefs are monitored and maintained. This includes underwater cleanups, urchin and fish counts, ID tag placement and cleaning. Volunteers in this programme can see first-hand new life flourishing.

Get Swimming Grenada: A non-profit organisation that offers free swimming lessons to children on the island who otherwise could not afford private lessons. Volunteers are needed to give swimming lessons to both kids and adults.

Their website includes a full range of opportunities to get involved.

“The goal of the programme is to reach visitors through initiatives that enhance engagement with the community, leave a positive footprint on the islands, and provide greater knowledge of what makes Grenada unique.”

Below are some examples of the Voluntourism programmes available in Grenada, Carriacou & Petite Martinique: Myristic Mountain: Myristic Mountain is home to some of Grenada’s most gorgeous flora and fauna, exciting hiking trails, fertile farmlands, purely organic meals and horseback riding. Volunteers can help farm the crops, tend the horses and plant more flora.

50 SPRING ISSUE

puregrenada.com/voluntourism traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 51

T R AV E L

COMO CASTELLO DEL NERO

F

ollowing a seasonal closure, COMO Castello Del Nero will reopen on April 1st with new experiences rooted in holistic wellbeing and local culture. From a Qigong and Yoga retreat to invigorating rituals and soul-nourishing cuisine, guests will leave this twelfth-century castle feeling restored, revitalised and rich in cultural knowledge.

REDISCOVER AND RESTORE For true escapism, new packages combine stays in one of COMO Castello Del Nero’s elegant suites with a series of wellbeing experiences in the cocooning sanctuary of the new COMO Shambhala Retreat. Rediscover and Restore includes a restful three-night escape and a restorative COMO Shambhala Massage, using COMO’s signature blended oils to melt away the stresses of everyday life. Spa-seekers can embark on Experience COMO Shambhala, a dedicated wellness experience including Yoga and Pilates with world-class experts, signature COMO Shambhala treatments, use of the thermal suites – including ice fountain, sauna, steam, and vitality pool – as well as access to tennis courts and shuttle to nearby cities of Florence or Siena.

YO G A A N D Q I G O N G W I T H J A M E S R A FA E L This summer (June 27th – July 2nd, 2022) globally recognised yoga instructor and certified meditation teacher, James Rafael, will host a transformative retreat at Castello Del Nero.

With unmatched experience in teaching Qigong (an ancient Chinese exercise and healing technique that involves medi52 SPRING ISSUE

tation, controlled breathing, and gentle movement), mindfulness and yoga, James will provide guests with the emotional and physical tools to attract positive energy, reconnect with themselves and harbor real change. With nature-inspired yoga sessions, breathing exercises and tai chi nourish the body, guided meditation and group readings from sacred texts, poetry and philosophy feed the mind, offer reflection, and uplift the spirit.

R E V I TA L I S I N G R I T U A L S Building upon COMO Shambhala’s menu of Asian-inspired treatments, the Retreat will introduce a selection of new Wellness Rituals. Combining insights from world-class experts, relaxing spa treatments, nutritious meals and access to the estate’s exceptional facilities, each Wellness Ritual takes place across a day or half-day in the nurturing surrounds of the new COMO Shambhala Retreat. Be Active combines invigorating exercise with healthy COMO Shambhala Cuisine, access to the thermal suites and a revitalising treatment, while COMO Shambhala Immersed includes a complete 360 experience with a nourishing body treatment, facial, nutritious COMO Shambhala Cuisine, manicure, thermal suites and guided yoga, Pilates, or peaceful walks around the estate.

S O U L- N O U R I S H I N G C U I S I N E When they’re not in the COMO Shambhala Retreat or feasting on COMO Shambhala Cuisine – dishes specially curated to boost concentration, balance blood sugar and enhance traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

overall wellbeing – guests can embark on a series of foodbased experiences immersed in Tuscan culture. Wine, olive oil and honey tasting – including the estate’s own produce - can be arranged in the private twelfth-century wine cellar in the original part of the Castello. Guests can also take part in private cooking classes with Michelin-starred chef, Giovanni Luca Di Pirro, who will teach the secrets of classic Tuscan dishes, from tiramisu to the perfect pasta.

images by Photographer Martin Morrell

ART AND ARCHITECTURE TOURS Culturally curious guests will delight in a new series of Art and Architecture tours in local hotspots, from Florence and Pisa to Lucca and San Gimignano. For true immersion in local history, join a seasoned guide and explore the Tuscan capital of Florence on foot, discovering hidden treasures and unexpected corners only known to locals. Your expert guide will tell stories of Florentine life, from the Roman times to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, you’ll marvel at quaint churches, see craftsmen working in narrow streets and visit the main square of Piazza della Siggnoria and Ponte Vecchio, before toasting your experience with an aperitif in Oltrarno.

comohotels.com traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 53

T R AV E L

T H E PAV I L I O N S A N A N A K R A B I THE PAVILIONS ANANA KRABI REOPENS WITH NEW POOL ACCESS SUITES

L

uxury hotel brand, The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts has confirmed the reopening of its newly extended all-suite sustainable resort The Pavilions Anana Krabi in Thailand, following the addition of 20 brand new Pool Access Suites.

First opened in February 2021 on the southern west coast of Thailand’s famous Phang Nga Bay, the 79-suite ecological resort puts sustainability, nature and wellbeing centre stage.

From the on-site permaculture ‘farm’ supplying its kitchens to silken swimming pools of uniquely mineral-rich water sourced from the neighbouring limestone mountains - now directly accessible from the new 68sqm Pool Access Suites the resort is truly rooted in its destination.

Framed by views of the towering green-clad limestone cliffs and serene forest valleys of Krabi, the 10-ground floor and 10-first floor Pool Access Suites are peaceful oases centred around a shared lava stone pool, just a few short steps away via private terrace or private balcony and spiral staircase respectively. Featuring king size beds; 57” LED TVs; espresso machines; and complimentary arrival minibar and wifi, the contemporary new rooms are a luxurious addition to the all-suite hotel’s range of accommodation. The 32sqm Thai Studios, 34sqm Spa Studios and spacious 55sqm Spa Suites all benefit from private outdoor space from which to soak up the verdant surroundings; whilst the Family & Friends rooms, with their two-plus-two queens and bunkbeds configuration, provide a versatile retreat for families or groups of friends.

54 SPRING ISSUE

The resort has also added a new restaurant, Botanica, specialising in Thai and Indian cuisine whilst continuing its healthy emphasis on plant-based cuisine. All ingredients are sourced from local artisan producers or the resort’s onsite organic permaculture plantation, ‘The Farm’. Powered by the regenerative principles of composting and water conservation, this one acre ‘art farm’ and oyster mushroom nursery provides a memorable, sustainable farm-to-fork experience. Alfresco dining overlooking the main 35-metre lava stone infinity pool is available for breakfast, lunch and dinner, whilst up on the roof the iconic ANANA Sky Lounge serves up sundowners and magical sunset chilling, with green-hued, 360-degree views of the mountains and forests of Aonang and the Andaman Sea beyond.

The Asana Spa by The Pavilions meanwhile invites guests to ‘Revive, Refresh and Restore’ through naturally inspired wellness experiences, including carefully balanced hot and cold treatments in the Himalayan Salt Spa; a yoga shala set amidst the permaculture farm; open air gym; panoramic outdoor sauna; and a herbal steam room. Therapies and treatments blend traditional Thai healing techniques with organic essential Thai oils and herbs to create a unique allnatural spa experience.

The Pavilions Anana Krabi offers three Curated Journeys - The Pavilions’ signature brand experiences - and a range traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

images : The Pavilions Anana Krabi

of bespoke excursions and activities designed to celebrate the resort’s unique natural environment. Memorable ways to discover the destination include exploring the local mangroves by solar-powered longtail boat; visiting Aonang’s only ethical elephant sanctuary; and biking or hiking the challenging 3.7km trail up Khao Ngon Nak National Park’s Dragon Crest Mountain to witness one of Thailand’s most epic viewpoints. Guests also benefit from privileged access to the nearby private Aqua Beach Club, offering watersports; beach weddings and events; and authentic local Thai cuisine.

With the reopening of The Pavilions Anana Krabi, The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts now has a total of 10 owned or managed hotels and resorts in operation across Asia and Europe, with a further three in the pipeline.

Tropical Sky (tropicalsky.co.uk) offers a seven-night stay at The Pavilions Anana Krabi from GBP1,099 per person, based on two adults sharing a Pool Access Suite and return economy flights from London.

pavilionshotels.com pavilionshotels.com/anana-krabi traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 55

T R AV E L

S TAYC AT I O N U K

I

n each issue of Travel Dine Relax we focus on the latest offerings for travellers looking to explore closer to home. This issue, we’re focusing on spring-filled adventures.

A S TAYC AT I O N S T E E P E D I N H I S T O R Y, R O S E H A L L , SUFFOLK Brand new and exclusive to Oliver’s Travels, Rose Hall is located in the heart of the Suffolk Heritage Coast, with its wetlands, beaches and gentle waterways typified by nearby Orford. It is the perfect home away from home and offers plenty of space, making it an ideal setting for large family gatherings, birthday parties and anniversaries. This charming grade II listed hall is a former rectory and the oldest parts of the house date to the early 1700s.

With a host of rooms to accommodate all activities, across the courtyard is the former coach house, now serving as a brilliantly converted and styled games and party room. The wood-panelled 56 SPRING ISSUE

clubhouse has bi-folding doors, bar, snooker table and relaxing lounge area.

Outside guests will feel spoilt for space, and the ample garden provides much privacy and seclusion with its walled private swimming pool, tennis court, garden, and pond.

2022 rates start from £12,700 for a sevennight stay. oliverstravels.com S TAY O N E D E G R E E LAUNCHES AN EXCLUSIVE C OT S W O L D R E T R E AT I N C O L L A B O R AT I O N W I T H M A N D A R I N O R I E N TA L Stay One Degree has announced a collaborative, luxury experience with Mandarin Oriental. Guests can retreat to one of Stay One Degree’s most exceptional homes, a beautiful Georgian-inspired 600 acre estate in the English countryside, complimented

by Mandarin Oriental’s award-winning spa services.

There are two and three-night itineraries with a range of tailored

wellness programmes focusing on mindfulness, relaxation, professional performance optimisation or spiritual healing, all using wellness experts from Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London.

A Mandarin Oriental private chef will provide nutritious and bespoke menus depending on guest preferences.

Additional local activities can be arranged including wild swimming, private cooking, local market tours and clay pigeon shooting.

To find out more regaridng the Retreat to The Cotswolds Experience visit stayone. com STORRS HALL OFFERS SKIPPERED CRUISE IN A BEAUTIFUL ‘FREEBODY SLIPPER LAUNCH’ ON ENGLAND’S LARGEST LAKE This Spring, Storrs Hall, a luxurious hotel right on the shores of Windermere in the Lake District, will be offering its guests skippered cruises on its brand new addition, the ‘Abigail Leah’ - a beautiful Freebody Slipper Launch, handcrafted in 2005 by the famous traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

historical Boatbuilder Peter Freebody & Co. Guests can take in the spectacular Spring landscapes around England’s largest lake on a two-hour cruise, complemented with chilled prosecco.

Lavish picnic lunches are possible too, perfect for proposals and celebratory occasions.

The Abigail Leah is 30 feet long and was lovingly built with gleaming teak and mahogany wood using traditional methods by the renowned craftsmen at Peter Freebody & Co – a family-run company which has been building boats on the Thames for over 300 years.

She comes complete with two Lloyd Loom chairs at the helm and a bench seat across the stern of the cockpit, comfortably seating seven people plus skipper and she has an integrated ice cabinet, storage and little drinks holders designed specifically for champagne flutes too.

traveldinerelax.com

Storrs Hall has arguably the best setting in the Lake District and stands in 17 acres of its own private gardens, woodland and lakeshore. It offers luxurious Lakeside Suites close to the water with Japanese-style cedar wood hot tubs and private terraces, a Boathouse right over the water and elegant bedrooms with lake views in its main house.

The Abigail Leah will be on the water from the 1st of April and a two-hour skippered cruise for up to seven guests will cost £300 including prosecco.

Rooms at Storrs Hall cost from £240 per night including breakfast. storrshall.com.

THE ANGUS TOUR. NEW TOURISM ADVENTURE LAUNCHED A new tourism experience, The Angus Tour, has been launched encouraging people to head off the main roads and routes to Dundee and Aberdeen and explore Angus.

Hoping to appeal to people who want to enjoy the best of Scotland in one area, “The Angus Tour, Adventure Designed by You”, takes in vast sandy beaches, historic castles and the stunning Angus Glens as well as a plethora of local delicacies and green experiences across all of the seven Angus towns and beyond.

The tour has a focus on sustainable and responsible tourism and offers a variety of travel options including public transport, cycling and walking, as well as driving and will take visitors on an inspiring tour around Angus, often described as a hidden gem, including year-round visitor experiences in locations across the east coast region.

Convener of Communities and Finance, Councillor Mark Salmond said: “Angus Council was awarded funding from the VisitScotland Destination & Sector Marketing Fund allowing the creation of The Angus Tour, highlighting the >>> SPRING ISSUE 57

T R AV E L

diversity of these visitor experiences, supporting local tourism and hospitality businesses in Angus.

It is an area of outstanding beauty, with picturesque towns, spectacular countryside, dramatic coastline, fantastic local food and historic landmarks. It is also home to some of the most outstanding food and drink products in Scotland, including the Arbroath Smokie and Forfar Bridie” The Angus Tour route runs from Monifieth along the A92 to Montrose and then inland to Brechin and onto the A90 to Forfar and Glamis, allowing travellers to branch off and explore stunning locations along the way, northwards to Edzell, west to Kirriemuir, or into the Angus Glens.

New Autumn and Winter themed itineraries have been created as part of the tour shining a light on the vast range of attractions Angus has to offer, with experiences to suit every traveler whether they are looking for high energy adventure such as biking in the hills or a slower, more relaxed trip visiting historic places of interest such as Arbroath Abbey or House of Dun. The themed itineraries are based 58 SPRING ISSUE

around the trends history and heritage; explore the outdoors, food and drink; and dog friendly. They will provide visitors with a pick ‘n’ mix approach to selecting bookable products to self-led trails along the route, based on their interests. The itineraries are three days long, and with options to start from any part of the route, visitors can choose to do all or some depending on what best fits into their length of stay.

Norma Lyall, Development Worker, Angus Tourism Cooperative: “Stretching along the east coast from south Aberdeenshire to Dundee, and inland to Perth & Kinross, Angus is an area of incredible beauty packed with adventures for all ages and abilities.

Sustainable and community led tourism are key to the authentic adventure experiences Angus has to offer. Many of our tourism businesses are working hard to reduce their impact on the environment and raise awareness of regenerative tourism.

“Angus is highly accessible to those aiming to tread lightly with their carbon footprint. The east coast trainline takes just an hour and half

from Edinburgh and are a direct route from London, you can sit back and relax until it arrives in Arbroath or Montrose.

We are also on national cycle networks and have a growing number of electric vehicle charging points.”

Kathi Kamleitner a travel blogger at Watch Me See has visited Angus on a number of occasions. She said: “A lover of the outdoors, I am always looking for adventure that I can easily throw myself into that I can shape to suit my mood. The beauty of the Angus Tour is that there is so much to see and do without having to travel for hours between activities – the mountains and coast are so close together and so you don’t have to choose between the two.

“It’s all here, from hiking in the Angus Glens and wildlife spotting to learning about Scottish history at Arbroath Abbey and taking in the the beautiful coastline. A big draw is also green tourism businesses like Newton Farm who use solar panel electricity and minimum water wastage and encourage their self-catering guests to make their stay as green as possible.”

Ryan Urquhart, General Sales Manager, traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

Fiskens of Forfar Motor Group, is a local supplier of electric vehicles and has seen an ongoing increase in their use from people keen to making more environmentally sound choices, both living in and visiting the area. He said: “A concern many have when travelling is finding a charging point that is in a suitable location. Angus has a significant number across the area but more importantly, they are easy to find. The Visit Angus App has an interactive map showing where every charging point is making it really easy to plan days out and weekends away around other activities.”

Montrose based Sup2summit specialises in stand-up paddle boarding, bushcraft and rock climbing.

Jim Wight, owner, Sup2summit, said: Covid-19 has forced a monumental shift in the tourism industry. More people are now keen to explore parts of Scotland that are new to them. The Angus Tour really helps them navigate their way around what is very special part of the country, focusing on what they love to do the most.”

Helping those embarking on the tour curate their ideal trip are the digital traveldinerelax.com

tools, the Visit Angus app and Insider’s Guide, which lists 100 unmissable experiences in the area.

Funding from the VisitScotland Destination & Sector Marketing Fund has allowed the creation of The Angus Tour, highlighting the diversity of these visitor experiences, supporting local tourism and hospitality businesses.

TOP FIVE EASTER CANAL B O AT B R E A K S Canal boat holidays are great for families, offering the chance to set off on an adventure together out in the open air, learning how to work the locks and speak the boating lingo, as well as spotting wildlife, exploring trafficfree towpaths and visiting waterside attractions along the way.

Drifters Waterway Holidays offers a choice of 550 boats from 45 bases across the country. All its operators provide hirers with life jackets and boat steering tuition. Its top five recommendations for Easter 2022 include a Cruise through the beautiful Churnet Valley – from Drifters’ base at Stoke on Trent at the junction of the Caldon and Trent & Mersey canals in

Staffordshire, on a short break canal boat holiday-makers can cruise along the Caldon Canal to Flint Mill and back. Often described as ‘one of the finest canals in Britain’, the peaceful 17-mile long Caldon Canal runs from the Trent & Mersey Canal at Etruria in Stoke-on-Trent, to Froghall Wharf in the Staffordshire Moorlands. The route to Flint Mill takes boaters through moorlands close to Denford, water meadows at Cheddleton and the beautiful wooded Churnet Valley. There and back it travels 23 miles, through 24 locks (12 each way) and takes around 15 cruising hours.

Visit the Tudors exhibition at The Holbourne Museum in Bath - on a short break from Drifters’ base at Hilperton in Wiltshire, boaters can travel gently along the beautiful Kennet & Avon Canal to reach moorings at Sydney Wharf on the edge of Bath City Centre. The journey there and back travels 25 miles, passing through six locks (three each way) and takes around 13 cruising hours. Along the way, the route passes through the historic town of Bradford on Avon with its fascinating 14th century Tithe Barn, and over the beautiful Avoncliff and Dundas Bath SPRING ISSUE 59

T R AV E L

stone aqueducts. Once at Sydney Wharf, boaters can moor up and take a 15-minute walk into Bath City Centre to visit a choice of attractions, including the The Holbourne Museum’s The Tudors exhibition.

Stop off at the World’s biggest Cadbury shop - perfect for beginners, boaters can travel lock-free to Birmingham in just five hours from Drifters’ base at Tardebigge on the Worcester & Birmingham Canal, stopping off along the way for handmade Easter eggs at Cadbury World. With more canals than Venice, boaters can travel right into the heart of the City of Birmingham, where overnight moorings are available at Gas Street Basin, close to Brindleyplace.

There’s plenty for families to see and do, including penguin feeding at the National Sea Life Centre and star gazing in the Planetarium at Birmingham’s Science Museum Thinktank.

Navigate to the old mill town of Hebden Bridge - on a short break from Drifters’ base at Sowerby Bridge, canal boat holiday-makers can travel along the Rochdale Canal to Hebden Bridge and back. The journey there and back 60 SPRING ISSUE

travels 14 miles, passes through 20 locks (10 each way) and takes around 11 hours. The route takes boaters through Mytholmroyd, birthplace of Ted Hughes and Fallingroyd Tunnel. Once at Hebden Bridge, visitors can choose from a series of scenic waymarked walks and a great variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs.

Float across ‘The Stream in the Sky’ - from Drifters’ base at Chirk on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales, the pretty Eisteddford town of Llangollen on the edge of the Berwyn Mountains can be reached on a short break. Along the route, canal boat holiday-makers will cross the UNESCO World Heritage Status Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, towering 38 metres above the Dee Valley. On reaching Llangollen, boaters can enjoy visiting the town’s independent shops, pubs and restaurants, as well as its Steam Railway and Horseshoe Falls. On a week’s break, narrow boat holiday-makers can also travel east to Ellesmere.

If their top five suggestions have whetted your appetite to explore by boat, then visit their website for a full range of ideas and boats drifters.co.uk

M O S S O F T H E I S L E S AT BERKELEY’S BAMFORD WELLNESS SPA MOSS of the Isles has announced a three-month wellness collaboration with The Berkeley, London. From March 2022, the all-natural skincare brand will offer an exclusive range of body treatments at the five-star Belgravia hotel’s Bamford Wellness Spa. MOSS of the ISLES at The Berkeley’s Bamford Wellness Spa will offer clients an exclusive range of full-body 60 and 90 minute treatments. All therapies will harness the power of MOSS of the ISLES’s nourishing vegan, chemicaland cruelty-free products, which are handcrafted in small batches using sustainably-sourced ingredients from across Ireland and the British Isles.

Ranging from a 60 minute ‘Warm Element’ lymphatic drainage massage and body-brush to a spoiling 90 minute ‘Moss Signature Face and Body Wellness Experience’, the treatments incorporate the healing properties of plant extracts including moss, peat, rosemary, horse chestnut, poppy seed, Scottish dulce seaweed and heather. traveldinerelax.com

T R AV E L

The Berkeley, nestled between bustling Knightsbridge and leafy Belgravia, is the essence of contemporary chic and innovative luxury. One of the UK’s finest hotels, it was the perfect choice for the first MOSS of the ISLES London spa collaboration.

MOSS of the ISLES at The Berkeley Spa treatments will start from £150 for a 60 minute treatment. For more information on MOSS of the ISLES, visit www.mossoftheisles.com. For more information on The Berkeley’s Bamford Wellness Spa or to book, visit theberkeley.co.uk/health-club-spa.

TOWNHOUSE COLLECTION LANDING INTO CAMBRIDGE,

BY THE FELLOWS HOUSE, CAMBRIDGE, CURIO C O L L E C T I O N B Y H I LT O N The Fellows House Cambridge, Curio Collection by Hilton unveiled its luxury townhouse collection - The Fellows House Mews - to encourage a new generation of long and mid-term guests to make the area their home.

With minimum stays of just twonights and tiered pricing options, traveldinerelax.com

this collection of four thoughtfully crafted, three-storey townhouses are specifically designed for guests staying seven-nights or more. The new accommodations are ideal for those looking to reside somewhere where they can “Feel at home, Feel Inspired and Feel like a Fellow”, with each townhouse dedicated to a Fellow of Cambridge and uniquely styled and decorated in homage of their namesakes: Ramakrishnan, Burbidge, Desai and Appleton.

Each bedroom includes its own ensuite and every mews is complemented by an outdoor terrace alongside beautifully designed modern indoor/outdoor living and dining spaces. The four properties also include a fully equipped kitchen which provides all utensils required to cook breakfast through to dinner and state of the art audio visual equipment.

delights for those staying seven nights or more.

The Sage of Cambridge at The Fellows House Cambridge, Curio Collection by Hilton, plays the role of a local coffee shop for long-staying guests by day, offering health-conscious options and freshly baked pastries transforming into a vibrant wine and aperitifs bar.

Extended stay guests can make use of onsite bike hire as well as one complimentary car parking space with EV charging directly on the townhouses’ doorstep. Additional hotel car parking with multiple electric car charging ports and the indoor swimming pool, gym, sauna and steam room are all available to use at an additional fee.

Prices for The Fellows House Mews start from £180 per night excluding VAT based on a min stay of 90 nights room only. tfhmews.com

The signature restaurant, The Folio Bar & Kitchen at The Fellows House Cambridge, Curio Collection by Hilton can offer in room dining for townhouse guests and those looking for a quiet night in during the busy working week and the property offers complimentary welcome hampers filled with culinary SPRING ISSUE 61

Foie Gras Parfait, Rhubarb & Pistachio, Duck Salad, Duck fat Brioche p64-69

DINE

AN INTERVIEW WITH...

CALLUM GRAHAM H E A D C H E F, M I C H E L I N S TA R R E D B O H E M I A R E S TA U R A N T, J E R S E Y

L

ocated in the heart of St Helier, Jersey’s idyllic seaside capital, The Club Hotel & Spa offers luxury accommodation in an unrivalled location, close to many of the island’s most breath-taking beaches and local attractions. Boasting the island’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, 5AA Rosette Bohemia is led by Head Chef Callum Graham. Using only the finest quality, fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients, Callum creates exciting modern European dishes and a range of tasting menus to suit all occasions. Guests can relax and rejuvenate at The Club Spa, boasting world-class spa facilities, indoor and outdoor pools and a thermal suite which includes a salt cabin, herbal steam room, experience shower and five treatment rooms.

An extensive treatment list will leave you spoilt for choice and ensures pampering from top to toe.

A rising star in the industry and one of the UK’s most exciting young chefs, Callum Graham is Head Chef at Bohemia, the Michelin-starred restaurant at The Club Hotel & Spa in St. Helier, Jersey. With over a decade of experience under his belt, Callum is well placed to lead his team of 13 in the kitchen, bringing a European influence to Bohemia’s food, thanks to his time spent across the continent, including stints in Paris and Geneva.

We asked Callum what it takes to run a successful restaurant and what inspired him to pursue a career within the culinary arts.

Opposite page: Chef Callum Graham, Bohemia, Jersey 64 SPRING ISSUE

Tell us more about what it takes to be heading a team at the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Jersey?

Heading up the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Jersey can be incredibly daunting as I am only too aware of the restaurant’s fantastic reputation and the world-famous red book. Having said this, it also gets me up in the morning and is something that I truly relish. >>> traveldinerelax.com

DINE

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 65

DINE

image: Bohemia, Jersey

>>>

I enjoy the challenge and pushing myself to improve and do better every day. Being completely focused on your goals and without distractions is a must. My role at Bohemia fills me with enormous pride, but it really is a team effort, and I am fortunate enough to have a brilliant team around me.

What inspired you to pursue a role as a chef, and what have been the peaks and challenges you’ve faced to get where you are today?

I would say I am part of the generation that grew up when there was a boom in chefs getting more airtime. It was something that has always appealed to me, and I was quite good at it during school so went on to catering college and haven’t looked back since.

It’s not an easy journey but if you’re passionate about food it makes everything worth it!, Leaving my friends and family behind and travelling abroad to pursue my dream career was challenging. I knew it was the right decision for me and the best way to learn, but it was a tough choice and living alone in a foreign country was quite a daunting prospect.

Restaurant kitchens are so fast paced, and when the rest of the team are speaking another language to you it adds a whole new layer of stress as you try to keep up.

In terms of peaks, being a part of Steve Smith’s brigade that won 5 AA Rosettes at Bohemia; it’s not an achievement that happens often. It was a fantastic year where we were really flying, and it was a fantastic time to be in the kitchen.

66 SPRING ISSUE

Where did you study your trade, and what advice would you give anyone looking to pursue a career in hospitality?

I went to Milton Keynes college and studied in Hospitality and catering at the Bletchley campus.

Following my time at MKC, I caught a break at 18 years old and worked at The Lanesborough under the guidance of Paul Gayler MBE. I was lucky enough to be classically trained and learn said skills, which a lot of younger chefs will miss out on.

After my stint at The Lanesborough, I went on to work for other brilliant chefs such as Giles Dupont, Tommy Bryne, Christoph Moisand and finally Steve Smith most recently.

My advice would be to work in a place that is going to push you to do better every day and be humble. It’s a slow burner being a chef and it takes years and years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. It’s important to know what you’re getting into and that you really do have the passion and joy for cooking.

What is a typical day at Bohemia?

I get into the kitchen most days between 8am-9am (or 7am if I’m making bread) and usually start with a coffee. I’ll check in with my team of nine, and then I’ll perhaps speak to suppliers about what they have in that’s exciting or new or just particularly delicious. Next is fish prep, meat prep, and then generally going round and tasting or checking things, ensuring everything is ready for service. I’ll look at the reservations for the day ahead to see if we have any dietary requirements or special requests and go through them with my team and front of house.

traveldinerelax.com

DINE

After lunch service, I’ll help clean down the kitchen then take a break – I pop home to walk my dog most days! I’ll go back in the evening for dinner service and do much the same routine as earlier in the day.

How would you describe your cooking style?

There is an element of classical cooking which comes from my time in Geneva and Paris. I try to make flavours lighter and flavoursome, and dishes which are ingredient led with a touch of fun.

What products are you able to source locally, and how much do they play a part in your dishes?

There’s an abundance of local ingredients that we use throughout the year, depending on the season. Some of the standout and more unique ones include sea herbs such as, sea beet, bronze fennel, sea purslane and sea bean that we forage for on coastal walks.

Then there is stunning fish and shellfish from our waters such as oysters, ormers, clams, lobsters, and crabs which arrive at our kitchen door within an hour of them being landed by the fishing boats. Of course, I also can’t forget about the world-famous Jersey Royals which are just a delight to use; again, delivered to us by the farmers that pull them from the ground. We work with farmers still using the traditional Vraic (kelp seaweed) as the natural fertiliser.

We try our best to incorporate as many local ingredients as possible within reason, because as much as we like to use local, the produce has got to be top quality.

>>>

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 67

DINE

>>> Fortunately, we have some great independent suppliers, farmers and fishermen that can source us these incredible ingredients.

What’s your turn-to-comfort food when you’re not cooking for guests at Bohemia?

Spicy roast chicken with pilau rice and broccoli – it’s warm, comforting and delicious.

What’s the one ingredient you can’t be without?

Artichokes, they’re such a versatile ingredient and you can create so much from it. One of my favourite things to make is a purée using globe artichoke and Chardonnay vinegar.

What seasonal ingredients can we expect to see on the Bohemia menu this spring and summer?

Spring and summer are great seasons for a chef, as there are so many different ingredients available, which in turn allows you to be very creative.

If you had to cook a dish inspired by someone close to you, who would that be and what would you serve?

I would cook for my partner Jackie, and it would most likely be a chicken ramen. We both enjoy Asian foods and in particular ramen.

Finally, how do you think your team at Bohemia would describe you? OR What three words describe the type of chef you are?

The team at Bohemia have said they would describe me as a leader as I set the tone and am always leading from the front - I’m certainly not afraid to get stuck in with the prep.

Creative; they like that I always come up with new ideas and that I discuss these with them, so they feel included in the process.

And finally, a nice guy, I guess. You could say I am part of the new generation of chefs who have different beliefs and philosophies.

During spring, you will see green and white asparagus on our menus; featured in different styles, and most likely in a vegetarian dish or with fish.

Moving into the summer months, I am quite fond of incorporating courgettes, garden peas and strawberries.

Rhubarb will also be coming onto our menu in February which should be quite an interesting dish as we are aiming to pair it with duck liver and pistachio.

68 SPRING ISSUE

bohemiajersey.com theclubjersey.com traveldinerelax.com

DINE

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 69

DINE

THE PIG’S HEAD, CLAPHAM F R O M T H E AWA R D -W I N N I N G T E A M B E H I N D T H E P I G & B U TC H E R I S L I N GTO N , P R I N C E S S O F S H O R E D I TC H A N D S M O K E H O U S E R E S TA U R A N T S

L

ondon’s new farm to fork pub and kitchen has opened in Clapham’s historic Old Town. The Pig’s Head - housed on the site of former Clapham pub The Rectory - offers neighbourhood hospitality, drinking and dining, whilst doing things a little bit differently to a traditional local.

A vibrant and welcoming public house and kitchen, the Pig’s Head is London’s new pro-planet pub. A 60 cover bar area offers ample space for those wanting to enjoy drinks or casual-fare from the pub’s daily-changing menu. There is also a bright, spacious 40 cover dining room with open plan farmhouse kitchen for long lunches and dinners from The Pig’s Head’s farm to fork menu.

The pub echoes the traditions of a gastropub, but with a sustainability-first approach. Bridging the gap between produce and plate, meat is butchered on site, working with whole animals to reduce wastage and emissions. UK farmers supplying the pub with native animals opt for regenerative methods, bringing people closer to the food they eat. Around half the menu is dedicated to plant-based dishes using native produce from family-run farms.

Daily a la carte menus are designed by head chef Michael Chan, with produce and its provenance carefully thought through. Sharing or go-it-solo dishes include the likes of Fried Cooley Gold oyster with smoked seaweed mayo (£3.50 each), Smoked bone marrow & turnip dip with sour crackers (£2.50); Buttermilk chicken, treacle & malt vinegar glaze with Early Grey yoghurt or – the house special - Crispy pig’s head, pickled radish & creamed leeks.

Elevated drinking food includes sharing boards of Paddock Farm Scotch egg, crispy chicken skin, frickles, sweet potato chip butty, smoked turnip dip, bacon jam, crostini & dining room pickles. There’s Pig’s Head takes on pub classics like Steak pie for two with Lyons Hill Farm beef suet top, beef dripping cabbage & mash or 42-day aged sirloin from Ivy House Farm with smoked bone marrow, Marmite onions, dripping & chicken salt chips.

Vegan & vegetarian dishes include the likes of ‘Baked Bean’ terrine, tomato jam & piccalilli; Coal-roasted squash, burnt orange, kale & pumpkin seed ‘ricotta’, Ale-braised turnip gratin, cavolo nero, Young Buck Blue & tarragon crumble or Celeriac schnitzel with seaweed, crispy caper dressing & pickled red cabbage.

70 SPRING ISSUE

In keeping with the ethos – there are drinks that ‘don’t cost the earth’. As well as local craft beer, they’ve sourced sustainable spirits for cocktails by the jug. Spirits are UK made by small-batch producers who are also doing their bit to minimise their mark on the environment. British alternatives are used over imported produce, swapping Calvados for Somerset Cider Brandy and vermouth from UK producers, Sacred. House spirits include 58Gin (who turn wasted Kentish apples into alcohol) as well as Sapling Vodka who plant trees for every bottle sold. There are six wines by the keg (available by glass or carafe), and 21 varieties of English wine from estates like Tillingham, Oxney and Wales’ Ancre Hill.

Years in the making, founders Maria and Scott have scoured antiques fairs collecting pre-loved and vintage furniture to make up the décor. Chairs, cabinets and coasters are up-cycled or reused, giving the pub its rustic village feel.

There’s antique crockery, vintage bone-handled cutlery and mismatched pre-loved tableware. Modernising with care, the original Rectory pub features have been restored or reinvented: original timber walls and exposed pillars are complemented with hand painted, custom-made Delft-style tiles along the bar wall.

Pig’s Head is a pub with a conscience. With 100% sustainable electricity and cleaned with 100% biodegradable chemicals as well as offering carbon neutral dining in time. All employees are paid London living wage or above. They will compost on site, avoiding the emissions of transporting food waste and making top-drawer compost available to guests, local residents, or local allotments.

On the opening, Scott and Maria Hunter say: “We’d been looking for a site on which to open a business with Jack and Michael for a couple of years and jumped at this spot. It’s a great site and Clapham Old Town has the vibrant village vibe that we were looking for. We firmly believe the future of sustainability rests on not persuading people to become vegan but for people to eat much less meat and fish and for this meat and fish to be of a very high quality. That’s why we source whole native animals from local farms with outstanding husbandry and, as with Smokehouse and The Pig and Butcher, we will butcher in house. We can’t wait to open the doors and see what people make of it.” thepigshead.com traveldinerelax.com

DINE

Photo by Helen Cathcart Fried Cooley Gold oyster with smoked seaweed mayo traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 71

DINE

AN INTERVIEW WITH...

H A R I N AT H G O V I N D A R A J H E A D C H E F, G I L I L A N K A N F U S H I M A L D I V E S

C

hef Harinath has been an instrumental member of the Gili Lankanfushi Maldives culinary team for over 10 years and has matured to lead a skillful band of chefs that have redefined the island’s concept to create a pioneering palette for the modern traveller. Born in southern India, his passion for cooking begun at a young age and since his unique culinary style has flourished with a specialist interest in vegan cuisine. Chef Harinath is responsible for growing everything from organic herbs, greens and fruits in the lush Gili garden which he uses to form his signature dishes such as Aloe Vera Ceviche, Avocado and greens leaves gazpacho and citrus fruit salad. Outside of the kitchen, Harinath’s commitment to ethical hospitality continues and he spends a lot of his spare time with the marine biology team delving into the latest research and conservation efforts both on the island and in surrounding areas. We asked Harinath about his career, inspiration and what inspires him to create the beautiful dishes served at Gili Lankanfushi.

Firstly, congratulations on your tenth anniversary with the Gili Lankanfushi Maldives. How has your role changed since you joined the team?

Thank you for the well wishes. My role has changed drastically as I have joined since 2007. Joining the team in 2007 as a chef de partie gave me the opportunity to work with European Executive Chefs alongside a multinational culinary team for the first time.

It has been an interesting climb up the kitchen brigade as I am trained in different positions within the team, and learning from fellow chefs of different background, cultures, influences and culinary experiences.

Opposite page: Chef Harinath Govindaraj, head chef image credit: Gili Lankanfushi Maldives 72 SPRING ISSUE

>>> traveldinerelax.com

DINE

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 73

DINE

The Mediterranean Spice Souk at Gili Lankanfushi image credit: Gili Lankanfushi Maldives

>>> In comparison to the time when I first started as a chef, where I thought that the world had only three types of soups on the menu, this was an incredible opportunity to work with a multinational team as oppose to working with an all Indian chefs team in India. This resulted in new experiences giving me new creativity, and new opportunities to learn from some of the best chefs in the world through cross-exposure training, as well as through visiting chefs at the resort.

Where did you start your career as a chef?

My first encounter with food and cooking is from my parents, as my dad is a samosa maker in India. My very first job at the hotel where I started as a commis chef and thought that every hotel in the world has the same menu. I did not know what being a chef truly meant at the beginning. Now, I am very passionate with what I can do in the kitchen and would like to spread the word on how influential a chef can be and what it truly means to be a chef.

What’s a typical day like for you and your team?

A typical day for me begins with greeting the team as I walk around the kitchen bright and early to ensure breakfast service is all set and ready.

I then proceed to our daily morning meeting with the management for daily updates and to prepare for new guests arriving for the day. Following that, I make my round in the restaurant to meet with in-house guests to find out how they are doing.

In the late morning, I hold a meeting with my culinary team to share important information about in-house and new arrival 74 SPRING ISSUE

guests, followed by a meeting in the organic garden for the senior culinary team to discuss ideas and plans for the weeks and months to come. Once the meeting ends, I spend some time in the garden to be inspired by the vegetables and herbs and to create new dishes as they speak to me.

We then start to prepare for lunch service, and in the late afternoon we have a management meeting to ensure that all tasks and expectations are aligned. I have a short time out to re-charge my batteries in the later afternoon before dinner service begins.

Come midnight, when all is quiet, I get a connection with the ingredients and what I am cooking. I start to get crazy ideas for new dishes! At times, I would go back to the kitchen to whip up a dish I imagined in my head. Similar to the character in the movie Ratatouille or in relation to the movie “Hundred Foot Movie” where the main character decides to give up the fame and to go back to his roots… where it all begins.

Who or what influences you most when creating your dishes?

The organic garden and spices we have at the resort are my biggest inspiration as the plants and different ingredients talk to me, when creating any new dishes.

How would you describe your signature style?

Simple and flavourful. Connecting with the ingredients and talking to my dishes, the vibrations/aura of the environment, to ensure that all ingredients complement each other bringing out the very best flavours.

>>> traveldinerelax.com

DINE

Chef Hari in the Gili garden, image credit Gili Lankanfushi Maldives New vegan pudding from the plant-based menu, image credit Gili Lankanfushi Maldives

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 75

DINE

Private dining in the Gili garden with Chef Hari, image credit Gili Lankanfushi Maldives

Can you talk us through one of your signature dishes?

Berry On Fire – Story goes like this; the dish was created for a wedding couple who celebrated with a wedding dinner at Gili Lankanfushi Maldives. I had a eureka moment (!) to combine two elements that come together perfectly for romance. The idea came to mind using two components, strawberry and fire – passion.

With strawberry, thoughts came to me that it should be a touch salty, so I tried inserting goat cheese in the strawberry.

Next, was the element of fire. I was wondering how I can bring the element of fire. Here the idea of flambé came. An alcohol based beverage for the fire, I had chosen vodka because it brings out the flavour of strawberry and goat cheese combine. Also, it looks like water so it gives the element of surprise when the blow torch lights the alcohol on fire.

What fruit, vegetables and herbs grow within the Gili Lankanfushi gardens?

We have bananas, leafy vegetables such as spinach, Chinese cabbage, root vegetables such as daikon radish, tapioca, aloe vera. Herbs such as thyme, sage, basil, mint, oregano, viberna, curry leaves, etc.

How do you cope with the variation of available crops, and how does this draw on your skills as a chef?

My philosophy on this is simple, whether I have one ingredient or 100 ingredients, the best way to go about it is to find an alternative to the missing ingredient.

In this way, we are flexible and adaptable to what is available. This shows the skill and capability of the chef; to be adaptable to what is available and still create an amazing dish.

What can guests expect from your dishes, and what part does your southern Indian heritage play in the menus you create?

Guests can expect to expand their palate and to be encouraged to try new flavours while staying with us. Cooking is magic, my aim is to bring the flavours to mouths just by imagining and pushing people to be adventurous in trying new foods/ingredients!

My southern Indian heritage plays a huge part as it is all about spices and flavours – being exposed from a young age 76 SPRING ISSUE

Chef Hari’s raw vegan cake image credit Tammy Gan

to different level of flavours and spices. This gives me a real opportunity to wow our guests as most of them are coming from the western part of the world and are not exposed to such flavours and spices.

Vegan dishes play a large part in the menu. How has the perception of veganism changed with guests over recent years?

Vegan dishes have proven useful for guests who are on a lactose-free diet. Hence, creating new vegan dishes presents an opportunity to cater to guests with other dietary requirements. Many years back, I did not know what veganism really mean. In the last 3-5 years, people became more health conscious and are turning to plant-based diet due to sustainability.

I am trying to break the mould for vegans when dining at restaurants and at home. My aim is to spread the word about how easy it is to prepare a delicious plant-based dishes, using endless possible ingredients.

Making everything from scratch and purely from plants, not having substitutes such as factory made vegan patties, etc. is something I strongly urge people to do at home where possible.

It’s rumoured that you will be introducing a brand-new plantbased menu that will be served in the Gili garden. Can you give us any insight into the dishes that make up the menu?

The new menu concept is simple. The main idea is for the vegan guest to be presented with an artfully created dish that is equivalent to the dish that the non-vegan guest is ordering.

For example, if a non-vegan guest is ordering a steak, a vegan guest sitting at the table will also get a dish that resembles the steak dish. I aspire to inspire vegans to reach for the stars and to see the endless possibilities of ingredients available for them.

What three ingredients could you not cook without?

Imagination, creativity and palate.

How do you spend your spare time?

Covid-19 has put a damper on travelling for a while, however I am always looking for new and exciting flavour combinations, particularly those that celebrate plant-based cuisine.

>>> traveldinerelax.com

DINE

Chef Hari Govindaraj photo credit: Gili Lankanfushi Maldives traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 77

DINE

>>>

PAN-SEARED VEGAN SCALLOP CAULIFLOWER COUSCOUS, PUMPKIN PUREE, CURRY FOAM Inspired to try one of Chef Harinath’s recipes? This simple, but delicious recipe highlights a clever combination of fresh ingredients can result in a flavoursome dish that celebrates the simplicity of beautifully sourced produce.

Serving: 1-2 portions Preparation time: 10-15 minutes Ingredients: 250g White Radish (Boil and cut like scallop) * Seared in hot pan till golden color both side Coconut Curry sauce 25ml Vegetable oil 50gm Crusted Garlic & Ginger 1 medium Onion sliced 1 tbsp Curry powder 1 tsp Turmeric 1 tbsp Cumin powder 150ml Coconut milk 1 medium Fresh Tomato 25gm Curry leaves ½ tsp Mustard seeds 02 cloves Green cardamoms ½ tsp Cumin seeds 1 tsp Fennel seed 1 tbsp Coriander seed 01 small Cinnamon stick Few Fresh coriander root Season with Salt to taste

Raw Cauliflower Couscous 75g Grated Cauliflower 15g Fine dice Tomato (Deseeded) 10g Chopped Parsley 10ml extra virgin Olive oil Lime juice Salt * Mix all together Pumpkin Puree 100g Roasted Pumpkin 50ml Coconut milk 10ml Olive oil Salt * Blend all together

Method Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.

Crush mustard seed, cumin seed, coriander seed, fennel seed, cardamom, cinnamon stick, curry, rambha leaves, crusted ginger and garlic then add and onion, tomato, curry powder. Sauté over medium heat for few minutes.

Mix coconut milk, simmer for 5 minutes. Strain and adjust the seasoning. Use hand blender to create foam Plating Place the pumpkin puree (Hot), on that place the radish (Hot) and cauliflower couscous (Cold) and Curry foam

For those looking for the authentic experience, nightly rates at Gili Lankanfushi start from £1,070/$1,440, based on two adults sharing a Villa Suite on a room-only basis.

gili-lankanfushi.com.

78 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

Chef Hari’s pan-seared vegan scallop couscous image credit Gili Lankanfushi Maldives

DINE

Isola by San Carlo Dining Room

ISOLA BY SAN CARLO

I

ntroducing Isola, the much-anticipated new arrival from the award-winning and family-run San Carlo Group – the brains behind Alto and its Dior pop-up and now, the city’s hottest new dining destination. Isola (tr: island) brings la dolce vita to London with a heady dose of Sicilian Grand Café culture, Italian hospitality and a vibrant menu inspired by the islands of southern Italy. This is modern metropolitan dining, but with an island state of mind.

The swoon-worthy interiors combine the contemporary with old-school glamour.

Designed by LA and London-based studio of the moment Fettle, Isola’s interiors take their cue from the Distefano family’s heritage and native Sicily, with a soft and considered palette of subtle sorbet shades juxtaposed by dark woods and traditional Italian rattan. Complete with an expansive and verdant leafy al fresco terrace, the relaxed yet stylish all-day brasserie and bar, offers indoor and outdoor dining from noon through to dinner.

INSTA-WORTHY INTERIORS Arrive to the standalone signature curved, Rosa Pink marble bar and sink into a custom soft green leather booths for an aperitivo before moving in to the vibrant and bustling 200-cover restaurant. Dappled in natural light - thanks to stained timber shopfront windows, the buzz and bustle of St Christopher’s Place is brought straight into the restaurant. The walls are strewn with artwork, curated by Narcassius Studio, and an illuminated bottle display, whilst the downstairs dining room, with its curved soft pink panels, eyecatching mural by LA based artist, Jessalyn Brooks, offers an elegant and intimate dining experience.

SUNNY DISHES, STRAIGHT FROM THE ISLANDS Inspired by the Distefano family’s native Sicily and their summers spent on the islands, Isola’s menu is a breath of fresh air filled with sunny plates that bring bright and bold flavours to the fore. Free from gimmicks, this is excellent food drizzled with Italian hospitality.

80 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

DINE

Isola by San Carlo Terrace

Offering a modern take on the comforting classics we all know and love, guests can expect a taste of the coast with a fresh, vibrant menu of seasonal plates, by Executive Chef Andrea Parente The menu opens with a generous selection of stuzzichini – delicious snacks deserving of attention over a cocktail – with choice morsels including Arancini, Roasted Pepper marinated in olive oil and garlic and Sicilian Semolina Bread topped with Provola cheese and tomato basil sauce or filled with aubergine. Antipasti follows – expect Figliata al Tartufo – traditional creamy mozzarella encasing bite-size bocconcini, dressed in truffle oil – and Carpaccio di Spigola, the freshest carpaccio of sea bass with fennel chiffonade.

Next, the star of the show, and your Instagram feed, is the signature sharing Spaghetti Granseola – spaghetti for two served with a whole crab and house-spiced sauce that’s just like mama used to make. There’s also a selection of the family’s favourite dishes including Tartufo e Porcini Ravioli – handmade pecorino and truffle ravioli in a creamy sauce with black truffle, Signor Sassi Lobster Spaghetti and Gamberi Sicilia – grilled prawns with garlic, chilli and olive oil. Or, for a true taste of the islands, traditional dishes such as Luganica alla Tradizione Isolana – pork and fennel sausage with red grapes, rosemary and red wine sauce; and Carlamaro Imbottito – squid stuffed with fish, mussels, prawns, fresh tomato, lemon and sea salt are sure to delight.

What’s life without a little dolce? Finish with the dessert on everyone’s lips these days, an indulgent Tiramisu, served Classico or Limone, or Cannoli Sicliani – ricotta filled pastry traveldinerelax.com

Isola by San Carlo’s Signature Spaghetti Granseola sharer for two

with pistachio or cioccolato.

DIVINE DRINKS – SALUTI! The extensive and exclusively Italian wine list, ranging from small producers to well-known wineries, journeys the length of the country’s vineyards from Piedmont and Veneto in the north, down to the Tuscany and the sun-drenched southern regions of Puglia, Sardinia and Sicily.

As well as all the classics, signature cocktails include the Isola Spritz, a blend of Amaro Santoni with raspberry purée, prosecco, soda, and an Old Fashioned Don Salvatore with Woodford Reserve, Averna Maraschino Liqueur and chocolate bitters. In true Italian style, there’s an extensive selection of grappa, bitters and Italian bottled brews.

PRIVATE EVENTS Conveniently located in the heart of the West End, the downstairs area at Isola provides an elegant and atmospheric space for private events, suitable for 60 seated guests including the bar area. With pastel yellow walls, green marble floors and booth seating throughout, the space provides the perfect setting for every occasion from birthday celebrations to formal business dinners, and extravagant Christmas drinks parties.

Isola by San Carlo.

3-5 Barrett Street, St Christopher’s Place, London, W1U 1AY sancarloisola.co.uk SPRING ISSUE 81

DINE

JHAKAAS OPENS ITS DOORS A N E W M O D E R N I N D I A N D E L I V E R Y B R A N D F R O M T H E T E A M B E H I N D H E R I T A G E D U LW I C H

J

hakaas, a new and premium Modern Indian delivery and collection brand, has launched on Brockley Rise, SE London. Meaning‘epic/superb’ in Hindi, Jhakaas is the brainchild of Dayashankar Sharma, the Executive Chef behind the critically acclaimed fine-dining Indian restaurant Heritage Dulwich on Rosendale Road. Opening nine months to the day after Heritage, Jhakaas offers an epic food menu that takes its inspiration from India’s four major cities – Delhi, Bombay, Kolkata and Chennai.

Following Heritage Dulwich’s sell-out launch as a takeaway concept during lockdown, Jhakaas is born out of the ongoing demand in the area for restaurant quality Indian food at home.

The sourcing of ingredients and quality of dishes reflects Chef Sharma’s 30 years of culinary experience, gleaned from acclaimed restaurants including Tamarind, Zaika and most recently, Heritage Dulwich.

THE CONCEPT Not your usual Indian take-away, Jhakaas is designed in the style of the myriad urban cafes that line the streets of India’s major cities. Diners placing a to-go order are invited to linger and enjoy a drink of aromatic spiced Karak Chai, Desi coffee or Nimbu Pani – Indian lemonade served on pretty much every Indian street corner – along with snacks of Khasta Samosa and Namak Para (strips of pastry seasoned with ajwin & carom seeds). For those looking to enjoy Jhakaas with home delivery, a selection of craft beers and soft drinks are available.

THE MENU Available to order for collection or delivery to select South London postcodes, three set meals take centre stage, each generously serving two. The Rajputana (£45) features Punjabi 82 SPRING ISSUE

Butter chicken and lamb Rogan Josh alongside a range of housemade sides – think Dal Makhani and Saag Aloo and rices, breads and chutneys, while the Rajputana Grill (£48) is a carnivore’s dream with Awadhi Murgh Kebab, Jhakaas lamb chops and Varhadi poussin complete with sides, butter naan and Pulao rice.

Plant-based diners are well catered for too with the Rajputana Vegan (£40), which showcases dishes such as Tofu Saag, Lasooni Tadka Dal and Kolkata Bigan Bhaja – shallow fried aubergine – with Champaran beans and baby corn, as well as a selection of indulgent plant based rices, breads and chutneys.

Delicious small plates such as Bombaiya Chicken Kebab, Sabudana Vada and Dal Yaaz Bhajiya, also feature on the menu - perfect for family style dining at home or a light bite on the go. Larger options come in the form of Keralan Lamb (spiced masala, crushed black pepper), Meen Kuzhambu (grilled king fish steak in tomato & tamarind sauce) and classic Delhi Butter Chicken which can be accompanied by delicious sides - Saag Aloo, Bell Pepper Besan Bhaji, and Nariyal Raita – rice, and popular breads including tandoori roti, peshawari naan and paratha.

The menu also features a selection of innovative vegetarian and vegan small plates, mains and tandoor dishes. With plenty to choose from, highlights include Paneer Lababdar (Indian cottage cheese in tomato, onion masala), Wild Mushroom Kofta (mushroom dumplings, smoked tomato, melon seed gravy) and Malai Broccoli (tandoor grilled broccoli, cream cheese, green cardamon).

Jhakaas.co.uk traveldinerelax.com

DINE

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 83

DINE

SOFFICE S I C I L I A N R E S TA U R A N T E U R TO P I O N E E R G A S T R O - B A K E R Y C O N C E P T I N LO N D O N

S

icilian foodpreneur is set to open an all-day artisan Italian bakery and restaurant in Putney, SW London this Spring, pioneering a unique ‘gastro-bakery’ culinary approach - the gastronomical art of using its fresh, seasonal products which are available to buy via its bakery/deli, in the creation of its bespoke dishes for guests dining in at the restaurant.

Launching on Saturday 2nd April, SOFFICE will offer a unique Sicilian-style dining experience with a modern and contemporary twist, promising to use only sustainable, seasonal and highquality ingredients from local producers and suppliers from Sicily (and other regions in Italy). From classic recipes to new-age kitchen adventures, each dish will reflect passion for high-quality cuisine whilst paying homage to the Founder’s Sicilian roots.

The 58-cover restaurant will be set across two floors; a ground floor and a mezzanine with a few additional spaces on the outdoor patio. Guests can also enjoy an ‘open kitchen’ experience in the basement where the chefs will be busy preparing fresh dishes. Its contemporary and elegant interior design is inspired by Sicilian culture and art.

84 SPRING ISSUE

Soffice boasts a carefully-curated allday menu, featuring authentic Sicilian dishes including a selection of antipasti, charcuterie, fresh pasta, pizzas, pan brioche stuffed with fresh ingredients, sweet pastries and desserts. The bakery will also serve speciality roasted coffees, cocktails, craft beers and wines from Sicily and various regions in Italy.

The venture is the brainchild of Giuseppe Tuttoilmondo, a passionate restaurateur with over 20 years’ global experience in the hospitality industry including management roles at Norma London, D&D London and Zelman Meats. Giuseppe dreamt the concept of Sofficé in mid 2020 when the Covid-19 pandemic was still having a major ripple effect on the UK’s hospitality sector.

During his career, Giuseppe was inspired by his time at The Artisan & Urban Garden in Zurich (Switzerland), a place rich in honest and sustainable cooking with everything sourced locally and prepared freshly. He also worked at Carluccio when he arrived in London 16 years ago and fell in love with the regional dishes and authentic cuisine which influenced the dining experience and concept behind Soffice.

After years of dedication and experience of food and beverage around the world, Giuseppe mastered the craft of artisan Italian cuisine and his goal is to provide Londoners with a unique dining experience, encompassing a passionate culinary art inspired by Sicily.

Giuseppe Tuttoilmondo, Founder of Soffice, comments on the launch: “As London’s food and beverage scene makes a remarkable recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, it is a very exciting time to introduce a brand-new dining concept. Soffice is a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure aiming to pioneer our ‘gastro-bakery’ offer in London. We hope to serve our guests a range of thoughtful and surprising dishes rooted in authenticity and sustainability, whilst enabling them to explore a new breed of Sicilian cuisine.”

Soffice will open for dine-in guests on Saturday 2nd April and can be found on 236 Upper Richmond Road, SW15 6TG. Opening hours are Monday - Saturday from 8am to 11pm and Sunday from 9am to 5pm.

Sofficelondon.com traveldinerelax.com

DINE

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 85

DINE

INNSIDE BY MELIA HOTELS A BESPOKE 24-HOUR MEETINGS PACKAGE IN MANCHESTER, LIVERPOOL AND NEWCASTLE W I T H I TA L I A N = I N S P I R E D M E N U S C U R AT E D B Y G I N O D ’A C A M P O

I

NNSiDE by Meliá has introduced a bespoke meetings package, allowing businesses to take advantage of the adaptable and creative meeting spaces at the brand’s Manchester, Liverpool, and Newcastle locations.

INNSiDE is a collection of balanced lifestyle hotels for work, play and wellbeing – and anything in between.

Each INNSiDE hotel celebrates the culture of its unique location, enriched with music, art and wellness curated by the hotel’s local experts. Offering a sophisticated atmosphere and innovative design, the hotels come equipped with a collection of state-ofthe-art meeting rooms.

To inspire the unconventional and help facilitate a new way of doing business, INNSiDE’s meeting spaces are full of smart ideas and sustainable touches, with multi-functional rooms that can flex to suit your needs. The open spaces include all the meeting essentials, along with integrated audio-visual equipment, high-speed Wi-Fi and air-conditioning.

The bespoke Meetings Made More package is designed for businesses and business travellers looking for convenience, comfort, and flexibility.

Starting from £139 per person, the 24-hour package includes the use of the diverse meeting spaces and an overnight stay - allowing guests to tune in with the local culture and make the most of the hotel’s amenities. The package also incorporates an exclusive dining experience, with delegate lunch and refreshments, a three-course evening meal and breakfast included in the price. Individuals booking the Meetings Made More package for ten guests or more can also benefit by earning double Meliá Reward points on their Residential Meeting. Reward points can be saved up and put towards summer holidays, allowing guests to enjoy exclusive benefits, upgrades and discounts for personal stays.

As part of the hospitality partnership between INNSiDE by Meliá and Gino D’Acampo, Gino’s inspiring menus will flow into INNSiDE’s creative meeting 86 SPRING ISSUE

and event spaces, providing a nextlevel food and beverage offering for guests using the meeting spaces, with menus curated by the UK’s favourite Italian Chef. The delegate meeting menu features tea and freshly brewed coffee on arrival, mid-morning coffee and cake, followed by a soup of the day, deli sandwiches and freshly prepared seasonal salads for lunch, with energising mid-afternoon drinks and snacks also provided.

In the evening, guests can enjoy an Italian-inspired three-course meal featuring Mushroom Arancine, Calamari, Tomato Bruschetta and Parma Ham Bruschetta to start. Mains include a Pumpkin & Ricotta Ravioli, Chicken Escalopes, Italian Style Cheeseburger, Capricciosa Pizza and a Marsala Pear, Parma Ham & Blue Cheese Salad. To conclude the meal, diners can indulge in a Chocolate Fondant, Affogato, Gelato or a Tiramisu, the ultimate Italian dessert.

Within each hotel, there is a range of meeting spaces to choose from that feature local design details and colourful creative touches. Each hotel boasts an INNSiDE original: Big Ideas Space – a bright, fresh and innovative meeting area; complete with comfy sofas and squidgy chairs, SMART screens and playful items to keep guests engaged and energised. Floor to ceiling windows, natural airflow in all spaces ensures that business meetings are never compromised.

With a prime location in the heart of Liverpool’s commercial district, INNSiDE Liverpool is a stone’s throw from the bustling food quarter of Castle Street.

Excellent transport links make the hotel easily accessible by road, air and rail with Liverpool John Lennon Airport close by and Manchester International Airport an hour’s journey by rail. The hotel offers seven adaptable meeting rooms including the Big Ideas Space, alongside other rooms such as The News Room, The Printing Press and The Post Room; a nod to the building’s history.

The contemporary INNSiDE Manchester is a short walk away from both Oxford Road and Deansgate railway stations as well as the bars and shops on Deansgate. The hotel offers five flexible meeting spaces, all conveniently located on the first floor. The Chadwick suite is the largest and most versatile space and can be divided into 3 separate sections, allowing for smaller meetings or break-out sessions, while the Foster suite is ideal for smaller events.

INNSiDE Newcastle is located in the heart of the city on the historical Quayside, offering breath-taking views across the River Tyne. Situated a short distance from Newcastle Railway Station and Newcastle International Airport, the hotel offers five creative meeting spaces including The Keelmen Suite which can be divided into 3 separate sections to allow for smaller meetings or break-out sessions. The additional meeting spaces are a nod to local heroes of times gone by, including ‘The Hawks Room’ in homage to the Hawks company that constructed the striking High Level Bridge across the River Tyne.

Scott Brown, Director of Sales - UK North, from INNSiDE by Meliá, said: “Our bespoke meetings package offers business travellers something extraspecial. Guests can move seamlessly from work to play, enjoying our stateof-the-art meeting rooms with catering provided by the fantastic team at our on-site Gino D’Acampo restaurants.

With many businesses still taking a hybrid approach to work, the overnight stay is a brilliant opportunity for teams to socialise and reconnect in one of our stylish hotel bars.”

innsidebymelia.com traveldinerelax.com

DINE

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 87

image: The Berkeley Bar

RELAX

DRINKS CABINET

W

e’ve put together just some of our favourite tipples to help put a spring in your step this season. From non-alcoholic drinks to carefully crafted brews and blends, there’s something to suit all tastes this Spring.

BOBBY’S SCHIEDAM DRY GIN >>> Bobby’s Schiedam Dry Gin is a Dutch-Indonesian hybrid that celebrates the 150-year-old shared history of the two countries.

Described as ‘Dutch courage mixed with Indonesian spirit’, Bobby’s recipe blends a base of juniper with whole clove, cubeb pepper, cinnamon, lemongrass, rose hips, fennel and coriander. This creates a gin that is spicy and fragrant, with a burst of citrus and finishing with a bite of pepper.

And, with the recommended garnish being a clove-studded orange slice, it’s an exotic gin that beautifully incorporates both East and Western flavours.

Over 25% of Dutch people have family links with Indonesia, including the brand’s founders, who have a Dutch father and an Indonesian mother.

Bobby’s is named after their grandfather who emigrated to Holland in the ‘50s, but who missed the taste of Indonesia and started infusing Dutch gin with spices from his homeland.

The founders used his original recipe as inspiration for this gin.

Again, combining East and West, Bobby’s classic Dutch ‘kruik’ bottle is brough to life with an ‘Ikat’ pattern, a traditional Indonesian design.

Bobby’s Schiedam Dry Gin, 42% RRP £37.99/70cl Available via masterofmalt.com

90 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

RELAX

Bobby’s Schiedam Dry Gin

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 91

RELAX

SHIMA REVEALS NEW YUZU & ELDERFLOWER CANNED SAKÉ SPRITZ

WAT E R D R O P ® L AU N C H E S LU C Y®

Shima, the saké spritz brand has launched a second flavour – Yuzu & Elderflower – as part of its core range alongside Plum & Hibiscus.

waterdrop®; the global hydration specialist, is launching LUCY®; an exclusive, sustainable, and high-tech bottle cap that cleverly filters and purifies water, controls the level of hydration, and reminds users, day by day, when it’s time to drink more, whilst on the go, leading to a healthier lifestyle.

Yuzu & Elderflower’s rich, floral saké aroma is joined by the distinct scents of elderflower and the slightly sweet citrus of yuzu. Lively bubbles fill the palate with mouth-wateringly tart yuzu juice and a fresh burst of saké and elderflower blossom. Finishing with a green note that perfectly balances the richness, without any hint of sugary sweetness.

Founders Hector Butler & Matt Brunault launched Shima in 2019 having sensed an opportunity to give consumers more ways to enjoy saké in the West. Offering a new, innovative option to explore saké with ready-to-drink serves, the sparkling cocktails are light and refreshing, as well as naturally low in calories, gluten free, and vegan.

The innovation marks a move into the drink tech space for the Austrian brand, known for encouraging people to drink more water with it range of the world’s first microdrinks - made from natural fruit and plant extracts, enriched with vitamins and without sugar.

LUCY® works alongside the waterdrop® Hydration App, tracking drinking progress on the device automatically, and regularly synchronising its hydration data – no extra action is needed.

Yuzu & Elderflower (4.6%, 250ml) £18 for a pack of six 250ml cans.

The app tracks water consumption and offers personalised drink reminders, while allowing users to visit the site, shop within the app and participate in challenges and streaks to earn points for the waterdrop club.

The app is compatible with both iOS and Android. iOS users can download it on an iPhone or iPod Touch running at least iOS 14. Android users can download it on a smartphone running at least Android 8 version.

LUCY® can be used on every waterdrop® bottle and is available to purchase for £119.

shimadrinks.com

waterdrop,com

After experiencing the delights of saké in Brooklyn, the duo experimented in brewing their own batches. This led to a fact-finding trip to Japan where they observed the brewing process in Kyoto, Niigata, and Kanazawa. Returning to the UK, they enlisted the help of renowned cocktail developer Robin Honhold.

M A C N A I R ’ S A D D S 1 0 -Y E A R - O L D C A S K STRENGTH EXPRESSION TO LUM REEK WHISKY RANGE

B U L L A R D S C O A S TA L G I N

Bullards Gin have created mouthwatering St Clements recipe using their Coastal Gin, just in MacNair’s Boutique House of Spirits, expertly curated by legendary blender Billy Walker, today time for Easter and Spring celebrations. unveils a line extension for its Lum Reek Blended Malt Scotch Whisky range; the 10-year-old Cask Strength Batch 1.

50ml Bullards Coastal gin 30ml freshly squeezed orange juice The inaugural batch (UK RRSP £59.99) combines Single Malt Scotch Whiskies from Speyside 10ml freshly squeezed lemon juice and Islay – two of the most sought-after whisky producing regions – resulting in a subtly 5ml Indian Tonic Water smoky yet sweet favour profile.

Lemon and mint to garnish The aged whiskies were personally sourced by Walker before being blended together with GlenAllachie Single Malt. The spirit was then re-racked into specially selected Spanish Sherry casks, wine barriques and virgin oak casks for secondary maturation, allowing the whiskies to marry and additional characteristics to be attained from the wood.

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the gin, orange and lemon juice and shake well.

In a tall glass, add ice and half the tonic water.

Strain the mix from the shaker into the glass and top up with the rest of the tonic.

Garnish with a twist of lemon and a sprig of mint.

Once the final cask selection was determined by Walker, Lum Reek 10-year-old Cask Strength Batch 1 was bottled at a natural cask strength of 55.4% ABV, without added colouring or chill Bullards Coastal Gin (£40) or Coastal Gin Eco-Refill Pouch (£35) filtration. macnairs.com 92 SPRING ISSUE

bullardsspirits.co.uk traveldinerelax.com

RELAX

image by Victoria Greensmith Photography

BUZZED Whilst many leading energy drinks use synthetic caffeine, Buzzed is powered by nature – with caffeine extracted from 100% natural plant sources to give the ultimate all-natural, uplifting buzz. Not only energized by, but sweetened by nature too, this exciting new launch is infused with the finest pure Blossom Honey and plant-based Stevia to create the perfect delicate flavour experience.

G OYA T E Q U I L A ‘ YO U W E R E N E V E R LOV E L I E R ’ C O C K TA I L R E C I P E 100ml Goya Tequila 10 fresh raspberries

Expertly crafted to lift your spirits, Buzzed is the ultimate guilt free pick me up as it boasts more caffeine per 100ml than the UK’s leading energy brand, while being only 17kcals per can.

Perfect for the times you need a naturally-powered energizing lift, enjoy Buzzed on its own or as a mixer for spirits and low/no alcohol alternatives.

The NEW Buzzed energy tonic water has just launched instore and online at Selfridges and will be available in cases of 8 (RRP £5.50). Also visit the Buzzed website for exclusive online offers.

3 tbsp fresh lemon juice 1/2 tbsp rose water 1 tablespoon granulated sugar 1/4 cup cold water Garnish: Small rose bud or rose petals

buzzedenergy.co.uk

Directions: Add the lemon juice and sugar to a cocktail glass. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Add raspberries and rose water and gently muddle. Add ice, water and Goya Tequila. Stir and garnish with a small rose bud.

Goya Tequila is a product for the new generation of tequila drinkers. Its ultra smooth taste and clean production methods appeal to the environmental conscious and quality focused consumer. We have eliminated the well-known harsh taste of low-quality tequila, and elevated the quality to a level never produced before in Mexico.

The agave fields are located on the same latitude as Hawaii, rising almost 1500 meters above the sea within a UNESCO world heritage site. Fresh winds carrying oxygen and moisture from the Pacific Ocean combined with damp ground year-round gives our plants a blue-green, almost turquoise color and allows us to create flawless crystal-clear tequila.

This is a Single Estate Tequila meaning it uses agave exclusively on a carefully chosen farm. It’s produced with fully ripe piñas that are grown and harvested using natural organic methods. Being a Blanco it is not treated in wood barrels to hide unwanted flavours. The farming, harvesting, production and bottling is all done at Goyas finca so it has full control over the quality of the product.

The attention given to each of the small vintages requires one of the slowest production processes in Mexico. The flavour is minimal mineral and has gentle hints of slow roasted pines mixed with citrus tree. A well crafted silky texture with a smooth feel made for the European palate.

HENNERS FOXEARLE

Goya Tequila can be brought from Amazon, Ellustria,com or direct from the Goya website. (from £44.99). goyatequila.com

English wine is on the rise, it’s a hugely interesting area of wine and is growing rapidly.

This beautiful new English sparkling gives Champagne a run for its money. Lovingly made by a small three-person team in a quaint and coastal vineyard in East Sussex. It is packed full of quintessentially English flavours, it is fresh, lively and elegant with vibrant acidity and unusual flavours like toasted, buttered brioche, accompanied by slices of fresh red apple and lemon nougat.

It’s a true delight, and works will for sipping in the Springtime sun. Drinking it also means supporting small local vineyards too! Exclusively made in partnership with Virgin Wines.

12.5% From £39.99 75cl

DRINKS CABINET >>>

virginwines.co.uk traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 93

RELAX

image by Milly Fletcher

M O C K TA I L S Mocktails™, the award-winning ready-to-drink alcohol-free cocktails, has just launched its brand new nitro-charged slim cans – available now through the Mocktails online shop (£26.99 for 12 x 200ml cans).

This new canned format provides a convenient and delicious way to now enjoy Mocktails on the go. The cans are non-carbonated but contain a clever widget that adds a visual and aromatic experience on popping the can open – much like the effect achieved after a cocktail shake.

Each of the four Mocktails flavours are 100% natural, sustainable, and ethically sourced.

They’re also vegan, gluten free, low in sugar and calories, and, of course, the canned packaging is 100% recyclable too.

Mockarita: A classic with a twist that will take you straight to the beach!

Mockapolitan: Subtle and sophisticated, but not too sweet Mockscow Mule: Sicilian & Argentinian lemons create the most refreshing of tastes Sansgria: The French, Italian & Spanish wine grapes will transport you to Sevilla!

drinkmocktails.co.uk

MOCKINGBIRD POMEGRANATE PLEASER Perfect for celebrating in the Spring sunshine, this fruity, simple cocktal is made using alcohol-free, agave-based spirit.

Ingredients: Ice 50ml Mockingbird Spirit 15ml pomegranate juice Top with sparkling water Mist with a squeeze of fresh orange zest before serving Method: Build in the glass (a tumbler works great) and serve with pomegranate jewels.

Embodying the spirit of the Mockingbird, humbly mimicking the taste of Tequila by using authentic Mexican Blue Weber Agave, allowing you to have all the margaritas with none of the migraines.

A functional & adaptogenic, passionately produced Alcoternative™, made with all vegan ingredients to support health and happiness.

Feat. Pure Ashwagandha, an adaptogen that benefits mental and physical wellbeing by responding to stress and balancing the mind.

0% Alcohol & 100% Mexican Blue Weber Agave.

NIO NIO Cocktails is the brainchild of Luca Quagliano and Alessandro Palmarinwho, intending to change attitudes around cocktail consumption among the general public. NIO, which stands for Needs Ice Only, is based on enjoying your favourite cocktails wherever you want, all while maintaining the highest quality in both the recipes and their ingredients.

NIO has recently introduced a Ginger Sour to its alcohol-free range, which includes a Lemongrass Citrus and Virgin Bitters. Customers can buy a box of all three cocktails (£19.50) or mix and match their preferred alcohol-free cocktails as well as the 6 (£39.00) or 9 (£59.00) box option.

All of NIO’s cocktails are designed and expertly crafted by Master Mixologist Patrick Pistolesi, owner of Drink Kong, For these alcohol-free drinks, Patrick has chosen to use MeMento, the award-winning Italian blend of distilled botanical water from the Mediterranian.

• •

mockingbirdspirit.com

•

The Ginger Sour, pairs the classic combination of ginger and lemon, with MeMento aromatic waters to deliver a truly refreshing cocktail.

Lemongrass Citrus blends “flavours from Southeast Asia and more tropical areas”. The RTD cocktail is made using Memento, lemongrass, fruit juices and grenadine.

Virgin Bitters is an alcohol-free twist on the Negroni, with notes of spice, citrus and bitters. It is made with Memento, lemon juice and natural flavourings, including gentian and ginger.

niococktails.co.uk 94 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

RELAX

VINADA VINADA wines are made using a dealcoholization process which retains most of the wine’s original aromas and taste.

VINADA scooped accolades from the IWSC in 2021 including a Gold Trophy and the No/Low Category Award for their Crispy Chardonnay.

The wine is now available in 29 countries but only just launched in the UK… currently available on Amazon and just launched on Masters of Malt.

It’s also perfect for creating a light fruity cocktail, so how about ‘Mango Madness’, to celebrate the arrival of Spring?

MANGO MADNESS

100 ml VINADA® Amazing Airén Gold Crushed Ice 2 Mint Sprigs 1 Fresh Mango Moisten the top edge of the glass, then twist the glass around in the sugar to ensure the entire rim is coated. Fill the glass with ice and then add the mango juice. Fill up the glass with VINADA® Amazing Airén Gold. Garnish with mango and mint sprigs. vinadawines.com

N O V E LT E A NOVELTEA’s 0% London Dry is the perfect drink to be enjoyed as part of a delicious cocktail.

The no-alcohol spirit is gluten-free and suitable for vegans, making it a great choice for anyone after an alcohol-free tipple.

The 0% London Dry is available to purchase on NOVELTEA’s online shop, Amazon, and Master of Malt.

NOVELTEA’s 0% London Dry embodies lightness, freshness and fruit which is set to delight sophisticated non-drinkers, and anyone simply looking to cut back on their alcohol intake. The premium 0% ABV spirit features strong overtones of juniper and a hint of Earl Grey to provide the best possible G&Tea with none of the alcohol.

image Crossip’s Dandy Smoke

ZERO ZILCH ZIP ZZZ intentionally limits its range of products to a considered and thoughtful collection of only the best drinks. With a range spanning no alcohol beer, ciders, wines, sparkling wines, spirits, ferments and botanical brews, Zero Zilch Zip is helping those looking to moderate their alcohol intake to enjoy the best of what the no alcohol market has to offer.

Available from the newly launched site, brands featured in ZZZ’s collection include: • • • • •

Sea Arch Rose Sea & T – an aromatic, delicate pink sparkling drink with a floral nose and layers of citrus Days Lager 0.0% – a citrussy lager, with flavours of wheat, toast, lemon curd and a saltiness on the finish Caleño’s Dark & Spicy – a distilled golden and spicy blend, packed with dark pineapple tropical notes, ginger and kola nut spices Crossip’s Dandy Smoke – a non-alcoholic spirit which boasts a deep gold colour, with notes of sweet spices, bitter orange and hickory and savoury smoke on the nose New London Light, First Light 0% Salcombe Distilling Co. – Inspired by gin-making principles, enjoy classic flavours of juniper, bright citrus and zesty ginger

Explore the full range over on the ZZZ website,

N O V E LT E A ’ S 0 % C O C K T A I L I N C O L L A B O R AT I O N W I T H T H E AWA R D -W I N N I N G @SOCIALGINGIRL INGREDIENTS 50ml NOVELTEA 0% London Dry 25ml Lemon Juice 15ml Mr Fitzpatrick’s Gooseberry and Elderflower Cordial Top with Soda Water Mix, serve and enjoy! uk.novelteadrinks.com

In our next issue, our Drink Cabinet feature will be celebrating rose, fruit cocktails and looking at the latest launches for the summer.

zerozilchzip.co.uk traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 95

RELAX

R AT H F I N N Y W I N E E S TAT E C E L E B R A T E S P R I N G W I T H T H E E A G E R LY A N T I C I P A T E D R A T H F I N N Y 2 0 1 8 C L A S S I C C U V É E

T

o applaud the change of seasons, Rathfinny are releasing their eagerly anticipated Classic Cuvée from what has often been referred to as the vintage of the decade and one of the warmest summers on record. Cameron Roucher, Rathfinny Vineyard Manager, announced that “the year panned out perfectly and in late October we picked terrific fruit with the ideal balance of sugars and acidity for making high quality Sussex Sparkling wines.”

Crafted in the Traditional Method from a delectable combination of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, Rathfinny’s Classic Cuvée is a true reflection of the 2018 vintage at Rathfinny Wine Estate. A buttermilk golden hue in appearance, it offers a nose of ginger-dusted white plums on cinnamon toast with a rich palate of white apricot and crème pâtissiere with nuances of preserved Meyer lemon on the finish.

“Our 2018 Classic Cuvée was crafted around Pinot Noir, with ripe fruits and a low dosage which is becoming synonymous with the Rathfinny house style. We can’t wait to share this latest release.” said Sarah Driver, Co-Owner of Rathfinny Wine Estate.

Rathfinny is a family-owned Wine Estate, dedicated to producing some of the world’s finest vintage sparkling wines from Sussex, England. Their vintage sparkling wines are crafted with care and deliver on quality as each grape is grown and handharvested on their single vineyard, producing vintage wines that are an expression of their breath-taking corner of Sussex. This means you can expect something truly special and unique each year.

As we look forward to the spring season, Rathfinny Classic Cuvée is the perfect drink to share with family and friends. This is a super versatile wine that pairs with the fresh flavours of a home-cooked linguini with clams and fennel right through to duck prosciutto and ham hock terrine.

Available to purchase direct from Rathfinny’s cellar for £29.50. shop.rathfinnyestate.com/product/rathfinny-2018-classic-cuvee/ 96 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

RELAX

A N A N TA R A C H I A N G M A I R E S O R T A N A N TA R A C H I A N G M A I R E S O R T R E V I V E S A N C I E N T N O R T H E R N T H A I H E A L I N G P R A C T I C E S FOR THE BODY AND SOUL eviving Northern Thailand’s centuries old massage and tension and deeply relax guests. The 90-minute treatment aromatherapy techniques, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort begins with the heating of an herbal poultice, giving off a has introduced two rare therapeutic treatments, ‘Yam fragrant aroma, that is then pressed along the body to ease Khang’ and ‘Yajoo’, both with longstanding historic roots pain and inflammation. A plai oil massage follows, ending connecting guests with the region’s rich Lanna heritage. with a light head massage and Tok Sen. Tok Sen involves a wooden hammer being tapped along your Sen energy line, ‘Yam Khang’ or Thai Fire Therapy is an ancient Lanna tradition, relaxing the muscles, healing chronic pain, and improving the considered a sacred art where the therapist is required to pathways of the nervous system. have gained a high spiritual maturity. The treatment is done Anantara Chiang Mai’s 90-minute Yajoo therapy starts at THB by using the feet only which are first bathed into healing 3,500++ and includes: oil infused with mixed local herbs. The therapist then slips her foot onto an iron plough shear or ‘khang’ that has been • Relaxing foot soak heated over an open fire, then skillfully balanced, she • Foot pressure therapy using tok sen wooden hammer massages the guest with one foot only.

• Application of a plai poultice, heated over an iron plate, to areas of concern With a strong tradition of rice cultivation, farming • Full-body massage with plai oil using long, light strokes communities in northern Thailand have been using a cast iron for deep penetration plough (khang) for centuries which is attributed with mythical • Light head massage and tok sen back massage using a properties whilst being an indispensable part of farming life, wooden hammer.

The Yam Khang 60-minute treatment is priced at THB 4000.

As the treatment uses an open fire, it is done outdoors next to Anantara Chiang Mai’s stunning pool on the banks of the Ping River.

R

Moving into air-conditioned comfort the ‘Yajoo’ treatment utilises the healing powers of the local herb ‘plai’ to ease traveldinerelax.com

anantara.com SPRING ISSUE 97

RELAX

Dino Kingdom’s Tyrannosaurus Rex photo credit: Jody Hartley

DINOSAURS COME TO LONDON

DINO KINGDOM COMES TO LONDON WITH DINOSAURS AND IS TIPPED TO BE A ROARING S U C C E S S F O R E A S T E R H A L F-T E R M .

T

his Easter Half-Term, (Friday 1st April - Monday 18th April 2022), the creator of the award-winning light and lantern festival, Lightopia, presents Dino Kingdom at Gunnersbury Park!

The epic outdoor, prehistoric exploration, offers an incredible 100 collections including life-size dinosaurs and creatures, AR, Holographic and 3D mapping digital installations. Bringing the infamous creatures ‘back to life’! Be prepared to be transported back in time for an unforgettable, interactive, thrilling family adventure.

Waiting to greet you will be the ‘King of the Tyrant Lizards’ and the most famous dinosaur of them all - Tyrannosaurus Rex, standing 16 metres from head to tail, and not to mention the biggest installation, the Apatosaurus, towering above the Kingdom at 18 metres long!

There will also be smaller dinosaurs to seek, including hatching babies and other interactive beastly beings amongst the woodland, including crocodiles, frogs, bees, spiders and much more!

Let your imagination run wild in this ultimate family experience, as you trek through the prehistoric kingdom. An educational experience as much as an adventure, perfect for those budding palaeontologists out there, with an excavation sandpit, dinosaur eggs, fossils, volcanoes, a giant dinosaur skeleton head and a walk-through fossil tunnel! dinokingdom.com

98 SPRING ISSUE

traveldinerelax.com

RELAX

N E W R I D E S AT FA N TA S Y I S L A N D GET SET FOR A YEAR OF UNMISSABLE FUN AWA R D -W I N N I N G T H E M E PA R K , FA N TA S Y I S L A N D , I S B A C K W I T H A B A N G N E X T M O N T H A S IT INTRODUCES THREE NEW RIDES!

U

K theme park, Fantasy Island is set to brighten the mood next month as it introduces three new attractions for visitors to enjoy throughout the year.

Guests will be able to experience all their old favourites when the park reopens alongside the brand-new Wild River Rapids and indoor attractions The Guardian and Harrington Flint’s Island Adventures.

The new and improved Wild River Rapids will provide the ultimate adrenaline rush for families as they splash and spin along river rapids, before plunging into choppy waters – just make sure you don’t get too wet!

For those looking for a quest-themed adventure, The Guardian will immerse you in a world where every turn decides your fate.

The indoor attraction will require courageous knights to protect the realm and navigate their way through various obstacles.

Will you be able to survive the blazing adventure that awaits?

Paige Harris, Head of Marketing at Fantasy Island, said: “It’s been a long winter, but we can’t wait to reopen and allow families to get fully immersed in the fun and excitement the theme park has to offer.

“We’re constantly updating our attractions to ensure our guests have a new experience with each visit and we’re thrilled to introduce a variety of new attractions this year.”

In addition to the two new attractions, Harrington Flint’s Island Adventures, will launch later in the year. There may also be a few more surprises in store, so guests should keep their eyes peeled for even more adventures to be unveiled.

Fantasy Island will re-open to families on March 19th. The theme park is home to some of the UK’s most thrilling and exciting rides and rollercoasters, from the high-speed Odyssey to the classic dodgems, there’s something for the whole family. fantasyislandholidays.co.uk

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 99

RELAX

M O T H E R S D AY I N S P I R AT I O N G I F T I D E A S T O H E L P C E L E B R AT E I N S T Y L E T H I S M O T H E R S D AY

W

ith Mothers Day just around the corner, we’ve put together a few delectable delights and experiences that are sure to impress the leading ladies in your life.

1. Darts Farm New Fizz & Truffles (£49 from dartsfarm.co.uk) Make mum feel really special with the ultimate pairing of truffles and fizz. This indulgent gift of artisan chocolate truffles, handcrafted at Darts Farm’s in-house chocolatier, Cow & Cacao, paired with a bottle of Devon sparkling rosé from their own Pebblebed Vineyards, packed in a beautiful wooden box, makes the perfect gift for Mother’s Day. 2. Newly opened Greyfriars Hideaway in the heart of Oxford City Centre is offering luxurious stays to celebrate Mother’s Day this year. Its two exclusive-use Listed properties each have breath-taking historical features, stand hidden away in an unrivalled central location and come complete with a menu of optional concierge services too, and to honour mother figures this year, complimentary fresh flowers, fizz and chocolates will be included as standard for all stays throughout March.

Greyfriars Hideaway has good availability throughout March and bookings for its Mother’s Day offer can be made at greyfriarshideawayoxford.com by quoting ‘MOTHER’S DAY’. An exclusive-use three night stay at The Masters Lodgings costs from £2800 on a self-catering basis for up to four people, while an exclusive-use three night stay at Cloisters costs from £4800 on a self-catering basis for up to eight people.

The properties can be taken together from £7600 for a three night stay for up to 12 guests. Optional concierge services are charged as taken.

3. If you’re mothers ideal gift is a foodie looking to explore new and exciting dishes then prepare to tickle the taste buds with a choice of fabulous food kits from Hop & Roll (hopandroll.co.uk).

There’s a variety of kits to choose from, and each has been carefully curated by talented Hop & Roll founder Rosh and celebrate the diverse flavours and spices of Sri Lankan cuisine.

Kits come with the option of including the traditional Hopper pan, and we particularly liked the sound of The Island Life Kit (£54.99), which includes a veritable Sri Lankan feast, Arrack cocktails, curries and pan.

100 SPRING ISSUE

4. A quintessentially British delight, Hush Mayfair (hush.co.uk/afternoontea), in the heart of Mayfair, is offering a brand-new afternoon tea just in time for Mothering Sunday, with three tempting options, from classic and champagne through to gin cocktails.

Available on Sunday 27th March, and then from Monday – Friday weekly from 2pm until 4.30pm, afternoon tea at Hush Mayfair is an elegant affair. Situated in the beautiful Brasserie or captivating Courtyard, indulge in delicate and flavourful finger sandwiches – think honey roast ham and mustard; oak cured salmon with chive crème fraiche; and traditional cucumber and butter on fluffy white bread. Scones are, of course, a must – at Hush Mayfair they are freshly baked and served with lashings of raspberry jam and clotted cream. Suitably sweet treats include honey financiers; zingy mini lemon meringue pies; indulgent cream-filled gold-leaf chocolate eclairs and rainbow macarons.

Tea is courtesy of master blenders Harney & Sons, with a choice of flavours including Jasmine, Gunpowder Green, Rose Puchong, and a classic English Breakfast.

The Traditional Afternoon Tea is priced at £50 for two, whilst for an extra special event opt for the Gin & Jam Tea, priced at £70 for two and including a gorgeous gin cocktail each.

Choose from the T N Tea – a perfect pour of Tanqueray Gin, Savoia Bitters, nectarine, gunpowder tea and Fever Tree Soda Water; whilst the Breakfast Negroni is a tantalising blend of Highclere Castle Gin, Belsazar Rose Vermouth, Select Aperitivo, English breakfast tea and orange marmalade.

sommelier. For an additional £10pp diners can try COPENHAGEN Organic sparkling tea or add a glass of English sparkling wine from Gusbourne for £15pp or a glass of Taittinger Brut Reserve for £21pp.

6. Raise a glass to the leading lady in your life this Mother’s Day and spoil her with the new “G & Tea” experience at Manetta’s Bar (flemings-mayfair.co.uk/fine-dininglondon/manettas-bar), located within the opulent surroundings of luxury boutique hotel, Flemings Mayfair.

Priced at £45 per person, guests can enjoy an assortment of freshly baked patisseries and fragrant tea blends from East India Tea Company alongside a choice of one of three refreshing and botanical gin tipples, including Whitley Neill Raspberry Gin, Salcombe Gin Rosé and Nicholson London Dry Gin. Or there’s the option to treat her to all three gins for an additional £25.

Beautifully presented on an elegant tiered stand, delight in plain and fruit scones with thick clotted cream and homemade jams, followed by a selection of delectable mini patisseries and macarons whilst the expert bar team take you through the tasting notes of your gin and tonic selection.

The “G & Tea” experience will run from Mother’s Day (Sunday 27th March), continuing every Wednesday - Saturday thereafter from 1pm – 4pm. Book the experience online here.

Whether you’re booking in for Mother’s Day, or treating your leading queen in the coming months, elevate celebrations with Manetta’s indulgent “G & Tea”.

If you fancy fizz, the Champagne Tea is priced at £80 for two and includes a glass of Canard-Duchêne Cuvée Léonie Brut Champagne.

5. The Langham, London (palm-court. co.uk) has launched a brand-new afternoon tea collection, as part of a series of teas in Palm Court inspired by the nation’s favourite biscuits. An established member of London’s afternoon tea scene, Palm Court has served up some of the finest cakes and pastries for over a century, putting a modern twist on classic favourites.

Priced from £65pp, guests can expect a truly decadent spread of delights, with the menu overseen by Michel Roux Jr. and created by Executive Pastry Chef Andrew Gravett. The drink offering is just as impressive as the food, and guests can explore an extensive range of teas with the assistance of the tea traveldinerelax.com

RELAX

traveldinerelax.com

SPRING ISSUE 101

RELAX

BIRDLAND PARK & GARDENS A C R A C K I N G E A S T E R I N S T O R E A S B I R D L A N D R E S I D E N T S B E G I N T O L AY E G G S

T

here’s a host of egg-citing Easter events and activities taking place at Birdland throughout the holidays (Saturday, April 2nd – Sunday, April 24th).

New arrivals at the Bourton-on-theWater park include a Burrowing Owl, a Luzon Bleeding Heart Dove, a large group of Java Sparrows and three White-Faced Whistling Ducks.

In what is the season of new life, many of the birds will begin courtship and dozens of eggs are due to be laid over the coming weeks.

Families can join in the Easter Challenge Quiz throughout the holidays, hunting down 10 hidden eggs around the park and answering some fun ornithological questions.

There have already been eggs with the Indian Scops owl and also nest box interest from the Spectacled owl, which are always the earliest of breeders.

There have also been early eggs from the Southern Ground Hornbill, Southern Lapwing, Crested Pigeon and Speckled Pigeon.

Birdland’s head keeper Alistair Keen said: “Easter is always a busy time of the year for us as we wait for the eggs to be laid. It’s an exciting time of the year when we find out what our new residents are going to look like.”

102 SPRING ISSUE

Visitors can also go back in time to hunt for dinosaur eggs in the Jurassic Journey trail and explore prehistoric fossils in the Dino Dig. There are plenty of opportunities to brush up on bird facts at daily feeding shows and talks, where visitors have chance to meet the keepers who care for all the birds in the park.

You can Meet a Keeper at 12.30pm and there will be a pelican feed at 3.15pm.

The penguin enclosure is undergoing redevelopment work which includes some new theming and new glass going into the pool.

This redevelopment is due to be completed by early April and will include a themed fishing village setting and an improved public viewing area.

Birdland Park and Gardens, Rissington Rd, Bourton-on-the-Water Open Daily From 10am (Except Christmas Day). birdland.co.uk for more information.

There will be a penguin talk at 11am followed by talks on flamingos and parrots at 11.30am and 12pm respectively. traveldinerelax.com