If you feel that you need a change of scenery and a fresh start in life, Canada might just be the place for you. Beautiful landscapes, reputably friendly population – the Canadians are said to be amongst the friendliest folk on the planet – and fantastic quality of life with even free health care, those are only a few of the reasons to love Canada. So, whether you are looking to take a break from your everyday pressure in life, or you want to start a brand new life in a prosperous and caring environment, Canada is a country of beauty and opportunities like nowhere else. You will discover there the taste of a dream, whether it is a dream of sane and healthy living, better professional career, or colourful and natural landscapes.
Why Is It The New American Dream?
Canada can remind you of what countless of generations in the previous centuries have said about the USA: The American dream has just changed borders and lives now in Canada. Canada is a vast country that combines an open-minded attitude and breathtaking sceneries as well as a deeply inbuilt social care. From following a yoga class on Parliament Hill for free to touching real icebergs or even paddling across them in a kayak adventure, Canada is a country of possibilities a little like the USA used to be in the 19th century. The melange of natural wonders and socially aware and generous population makes this country an attractive destination both for holidaymakers and for people who want to build a new existence.
What’s To See In Canada?
If there is one thing to say about Canada, it’s that it is a vast country! That’s why it’s always a little difficult, for those who want to experience the diversity and the natural beauties of this wonderful country, to plan for the best tour and see everything. Often, experienced travellers prefer to rely on expert Canada tours to be escorted through the incredible country. From the Northern lights to the Niagara Falls, via the Canadian Rocky Mountains, there is a world of unspoilt wilderness to discover with an experienced guide. Canada is a vast country, the world’s second-largest country by area, but its population is very small. There are a little more inhabitants than half the population of the UK, which is the guarantee to enjoy a wild and natural holiday in Canada!
What If You Want To Work In Canada?
Canada is more than a country of wild and stunning landscapes. It is also an amazing place to start a new career. However, British professionals need to be careful when they accept job interviews in Canada, as Canadian workplace have their own specific culture. Indeed, a lot of interviews tend to happen over lunch, so this is the opportunity for the applicant to demonstrate excellent table manners. A little tip if this is your situation: Stay away from the most expensive items or the alcohol on the menu! Canadians, while being friendly, tend to be very secretive in the workplace. So, it’s always a good idea to keep a polite and friendly tone and never approach any personal topics until you feel that trust has developed in your relationship.
One night in Bangkok. Sounds like the title of a dirty film doesn’t it? Well, it probably is. But it’s also what many people do whilst traveling to and from South East Asia from the UK to break up the so-long-you-might-die journey.
Spending one night in a capital city when it’s your first ever time in the country can be a bit confusing, especially one as diverse as Bangkok.
We were intending to stay where *everyone* else stays – the famous backpacker partying spot Khaosan Road, which is supposed to be great for drinking but a bit souless, and is also full of people who look like they’ve got lost on their way to Magaluf. Fun, no? But three of our friends separately recommended us to stay in Shanghai Mansions Hotel in the China Town district before our trip, so we went for that option. Three people can’t be wrong, we thought.
And they really weren’t.
Location
On Yaowarat Road, right in the heart of Bangkok’s most vibrant Chinatown, this 4-star hotel can be found right in the thick of things.
Atmosphere & Decor
The hotel can best be described as beautiful, oriental palace (or, um mansion). It’s an oasis in the middle of the vibrant, noisy (not to mention pungent) city. Stepping off the busy street into its calm, cool surroundings is immediately relaxing, like applying Aloe Vera to sunburnt skin. The building is nine floors high, and steeped in glamorous history. It used to be owned by one of the country’s most prominent Thai-Chinese families, and was a Chinese Opera House for performing arts. It also served as a house of ill-repute for a while. The hotel still has a sense of theatricality and artistry about it today which can be found in its decor. Here, the romance of old-world Shanghai is met with the modern comfort and style of new-world Shanghai. Although the fabulous décor transports you back to a bygone era, the modern amenities allow all the comfort you so desperately need after 12 hours hunched up on a plane or bus.
Rooms
True to the hotel’s opulent roots, the 76 bedrooms are indulgently decorated with Chinese antique furniture, and fine fabrics in rich colourful hues. Dark wood and shining lacquered panels provide a contrast, and paintings of beautiful Thai girls stare mischievously down at guests from large paintings.
Our stunning suite was equipped with the softest silver silk dressing gowns, free soft drinks in the mini-bar, a huge stand alone bathtub and showers, a lounge area with an opulent chaise longue and a truly enormous bed. To be fair you could probably comfortably sleep around 25 backpackers in there, but it’s amazing having so much space to yourself.
We also had a very friendly butler. But don’t let that mislead you – the hotel might be grand but the atmosphere is very chilled, and travellers of all ages and budgets stay here. Rooms start from just £45 a night for a double including breakfast.
Food & Drink
If you’re really lazy, you don’t even have to leave the hotel to sample some of the best Chinese food in town. Opened in 2014, the Red Rose restaurant in the hotel has a gorgeous, eclectic, Art Deco style and live jazz music every night. The restaurant’s 1930’s decor mixes bold colours with classic black and white, smooth mirrors with rich velvety textures, elaborate wrought iron detailing with sleek polished surfaces.
The lunch menu features mouth watering dim sum favorites like steamed pork ribs in black bean sauce, shrimp dumplings and Hokkien-style fried noodles. For dinner, delicious Chinese classics like succulent Peking duck and delicate steamed snow fish are on offer. All freshly prepared with quality local produce. The vibrant outdoor terrace on the ground floor is the perfect place to finish the night with a cocktail, and yet more live jazz.
The hotel’s location is ideal for jumping in a Tuk Tuk and exploring China Town. The roads around the hotel are full of locals and tourists, and are lined with thousands of amazing street food vendors, not to mention restaurants and riverside bars, and night markets which are full of amazingly cheap clothes and open until late.
Why Go
I have to admit, we were intending to check out Khaosan Road during our stay (I wanted to buy some elephant print harem pants and have a few drinks ok!?) until we learnt that its completely across the other side of the city from China Town.
This would be fine if you are staying for two nights or had a late flight the next day. But we had to be up at a sobering 5am for our flight. And to be honest, staying in China Town felt like we saw an authentic side to the city, so I’m glad we experienced each other on our one night there.
So make that five people I know who would highly recommend Shanghai Mansions (including me).
Having started life in a hotel drawing room, Afternoon Tea has gone on to become the most delicious of English traditions, and continues to be a hallmark of a luxury hotel stay.
With afternoon tea week around the corner (8-14 August), LateRooms.com reveals the stunning hotels where the dining interiors and settings are as mouth-watering as the edible treats on offer.
Credited with being the birthplace of afternoon tea back in the Victorian era, The Langham’s luxurious Palm Court is one of the capital’s most elegant spots to indulge in, featuring plush velvet and mirrored walls. You’ll find treats that include truffled duck egg brioche, smoked salmon and strawberry and pistachio cream macaroons. A children’s afternoon tea is also available with jigsaw sandwiches and carousel cupcake swirls.
Served in the black and gold Art Deco-inspired cocktail Lounge, afternoon tea at the Edgbaston Boutique Hotel is a decadent affair. Vintage crockery nods to the 1920s and restored Victorian surroundings and you can choose from five afternoon tea options that include a glass of Moet & Chandon or Krug Champagne. Artisan sandwiches and seasonal treats are accompanied by organic, loose leaf Jing tea.
On sunny days, take tea in the stunning surroundings of the rooftop bar, or take a seat in the stunning lounge with sumptuous interiors and views over the castle. Choose from the traditional afternoon tea – think dainty finger sandwiches and dinky pastries with a glass of something fizzy – or the Gentleman’s afternoon tea. It’s a heartier take on things with a scotch egg, Ploughman’s, mini burger and pork pie – all washed down with a pint of Wylam Ale.
Set right on the seafront, The Grand’s ‘Afternoon Tea by The Sea’ has been voted one of the UK’s best and is served in the hotel’s recently refurbished Victoria Terrace. You’ll find luxurious velvets in strong Victorian colours and a botanical mural on the walls. Sweet treats include elegant options such as white chocolate and hazelnut praline éclair, chocolate delice, strawberry filled meringues and blackberry and lemon tart.
Set in a former Victorian school house, the boutique Great John Street oozes originality, with nods to its history at every turn. Afternoon tea is served in the hotel’s Oyster Bar, and renowned as one of Manchester’s finest, with delights such as passionfruit and vanilla cheesecake served with a glass of Perrier Jouet Champagne. A ‘Gentleman Jack afternoon tea’ is also available and features heartier fare like chicken and leek pie along with a Jack Daniel’s cocktail to wash it all down with. A children’s afternoon tea is also available.
Set in Bath’s iconic Georgian crescent, an afternoon of pure luxury is instore at the Royal Crescent Hotel. Choose between the Dower House Restaurant, which overlooks the hotel’s wonderfully secluded gardens, or head outdoors to take tea al fresco in the garden itself. For the ultimate treat choose the Champagne Afternoon Tea Flight, and you can choose from a range of afternoon teas that allow you to select your ratio of sweet to savoury treats.
One of London’s most spectacular settings, take your seat in The Landmark’s Winter Garden. The restaurant sits beneath the hotel’s breathtaking and grade 1 listed, eight-storey glass atrium, which fills the space with light. The Winter Garden Afternoon Tea features lapsang souchon smoked salmon and apricot and pistachio flourless sponge. Or cocoa fiends should opt for the Chocolate Afternoon Tea that includes coconut and chocolate macaroons, blood orange and white chocolate mousse and a pistachio chocolate opera gateau.
Looking out over the waterfront, this boutique hotel serves up enviable harbour views with its afternoon delights. The restaurant, like the bedrooms, is artfully decorated with contemporary and local artwork to add to an indulgent afternoon. Stylish takes on traditional favourites are on the menu, including homemade scones and clotted cream, light-as-air cupcakes, chocolate eclairs and smoked salmon bagels. Include a glass of champagne for an extra touch of luxury.
All hotels are available to book through LateRooms.com.
How do you describe the perfect getaway in just five words? Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay.
When you think of luxury hotels, a few brands spring to mind and the Ritz-Carlton is one of them. This hotel group is renowned for offering luxury accommodations and treating guests like royalty, and the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is no exception to this generalisation of the Ritz brand. The mantra at this hotel is unapologetic splendour. Think five-star. Think award winning spa. Think luxury.
IDEA
A timeless oceanfront estate providing guests with a relaxed yet refined experience.
LOCATION
Positioned in splendid isolation on a scenic clifftop overlooking the gorgeous Pacific coastline, the location of the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is truly gasp-worthy. Although it’s just half an hour away from San Francisco airport and close to the highway, it feels like you’ve been transported to a different world full of nature and far away from the hustle and bustle of the world.
Here, you can spend a whole day wandering aimlessly and happily along the bluff, sitting on the nearby beaches or quietly adsorbing the beauty of the Californian coastline that just seems to go on and on (we’re talking about miles and miles of endless rugged and stunning scenery). The location of this hotel is a place that is so beautiful and scenic that you can imagine it would be an inspirational setting for many a romantic novel. It’s a place of elemental power that can make human affairs seem insignificant.
SERVICE
As you would expect from a Ritz-Carlton hotel, the service here is top notch. The staff are attentive without being intrusive and receiving a glass of wine upon arrival is a very nice touch. Although the hotel is unabashedly luxurious and your stay here wont be cheap by an stretch of the imagination, one of the best things about the Ritz-Carlton is that you can indulge in as much or as little as you like during your stay.
For example, you have the option of gratifying yourself with the ultimate Ritz-Carlton experience which includes a luxurious guest room or suite on their renowned Club Level, where a dedicatate concierge team tends to your individual needs. Or you can enjoy a luxury spa treatment where many delightful services are available to you. Or you can simply let the healing power of the Northern California coastline takeover and relax with a good book in the comfort of your room – the choice is yours.
STYLE
The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay seems to have it all. Architectural presence, stunning panoramas, amazing restaurants, an award winning spa and impressive facilities, all wrapped up in a spectacular setting. The hotel itself is meant to evoke a classic Scottish seaside resort and with its elegant facade, perfectly maintained grounds and breathtakingly rugged surroundings, the property is certainly reminiscent of an old Scottish estate that radiates stately ambiance, but with the grand informality of a shingle-style build.
ROOMS
Spread across the main building and several adjacent guesthouses, the 261 rooms are light and airy, simply laid-out with a neutral palette and wooden furnishings. The beds are unsurprisingly sumptuously comfortable and hugged by Egyptian cotton sheets. The bathrooms scream relaxation with great big tubs that invite you to take a long soak and unwind in. There are lots of creature comforts in the rooms including a fully stocked mini bar with refrigerator, a tea/coffee maker and some rooms even have their own firepit. If you really want to treat yourself, book an oceanview room for “dramatic views of the wild Pacific.”
FACILITIES
The facilities that the hotel offers are considerable. You can enjoy the heated indoor pool, use the gym, take surfing lessons, go bike riding and experience the great Northern Californian coastline on a Segway tour. For any golfer, this hotel is paradise as it is surrounded by a beautiful golf course with highly manicured lawns.
TAKE A SPA-CATION
One very special facility that we couldn’t get enough of was the hotel’s award winning spa. It’s long been known that spa-going is extremely effective for relaxation, de-stressing and rejuvenating one’s body. However, with the beautiful setting of the hotel and its relaxing surroundings, it’s very easy to forget to make time to visit the spa at the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay. But doing so would be a mistake. A visit to this award winning spa might just be one of the best gifts you ever give yourself. With a range of treatments that cater for your body, mind and soul, separate ladies and gentlemen’s locker rooms with sauna and steam rooms, as well as the co-ed whirlpool area, this spa has it all and is not to be missed.
FOOD & DRINK
Have you ever dined in the hold of a ship? We can’t say we have either, but after dining at the Ritz-Carlton’s Navio restaurant it certainly feels like you have. Navio (the Portuguese for “ship”) is all about the sea. The room is designed to resemble the inside of an old seafaring vessel and is tastefully decorated with simple seafaring touches. With huge oceanfront windows, the view from the restaurant is simply stunning and the food, which highlights the purest flavours of the Pacific is equally as good.
Elsewhere on the property you can dine at The Conservatory Lounge which serves contemporary American light fare. If you’re interested in wine the ENO wine bar on the property makes you feel like you are in a Napa Tasting Room.
If you like to dine alfresco, it doesn’t get much better than The Ocean Terrace. One thing that you have to do during your stay here is to save some time in the evening to relax by the fire pits overlooking the ocean. It is a fantastic place to relax with a glass of wine and some light bites.
THOSE EXTRA TOUCHES…
When staying at any hotel, it’s those little extra touches that really matter and the Ritz-Carlton doesn’t disappoint. From the bagpipe sunset serenade (which is surprisingly romantic and easy on the ears) to the Hot Chocolate Bar which offers chocolate gratification that is instant and lavish, to the s’more kits and even to the blankets provided on the Ocean Lawn so you can cozy up underneath the stars in comfort, every detail at the Ritz-Carlton is considered to make your stay extra special.
NEARBY DELIGHTS
Apart from enjoying the beaches and scenic trail paths, there is much to in the surrounding areas of the Ritz-Carlton. A nearby winery that is very good is the Thomas Fogarty Winery. It’s about a 40 minute drive from the hotel and has beautiful grounds and the drive takes you past magnificent redwoods.
If it’s Redwoods you’re after, there is a nearby grove just a 15 minute drive away from the hotel called the Purisima Creek. It does gets chilly under the canopy of Redwood trees so take a jacket with you if you decide to visit.
There is local Half Moon Bay Main Street where you can walk around and check out the galleries and little shops and restaurants. Food wise, the PR lady at the Ritz-Carlton recommends The San Benito House (best sandwiches for lunch), It’s Italia (good wine selection, specialty pizzas and delicious bread), Pasta Moon (Contemporary Italian), Sushi Main Street (very cool ambiance and décor, tasty specialty rolls).
Last but not least when it’s low tide visit the local tide pools. It’s a great place to discover sea life and tiny sea creatures like crabs, starfish and anemones.
WHY GO
The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay creates unique and memorable experiences. It is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Northern California and set in one of the most beautifully scenic places in America.
THE NITTY GRITTY
Address: 1 Miramontes Point Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States
A small, secret and stylish boutique which is a discreet sanctuary from the excitement of Paris
Ssssshhhhhh can you keep a secret? We want to let you in on a hush-hush boutique hotel that prides itself on its anonymity – and for good reason too.
The world is full of secretive places and in the hotel business, secret usually means ultra -luxurious. Hotels like this are hard to find (for obvious reasons) and it’s their confidentially that is part of the allure – and the reason why they can charge so much. Unfortunately, like most mere mortals, we can’t keep a secret for long and we just had to reveal one of our favourite hotels in Paris. This hotel prides itself as being the ‘ultimate secret’ in the boutique hotel business, known to insiders alone. Say Bonjour to Hotel Dupond-Smith.
IDEA
The concept behind this hotel is to offer a tailor-made stay in the lap of luxury, where all the wishes of guests are met.
LOCATION
Whether it’s fashion, culture,food or even hotels, Paris certainly lives up to its trend-setting reputation. The super trendy Hotel Dupond-Smith can be found tucked away on the cobbled streets of Le Marais, which is one of the most stylish districts and arguably one of the best places to stay in Paris.
Often referred to as “Old Paris” this district feels anything but old and is undoubtedly one of the most ‘hip’ neighbourhoods in Paris. Brimming and buzzing with activity, Le Marais is an inexhaustible maze of crooked lanes and cobbled streets, boasting trendy boutiques, lively bars, cafes, restaurants and art galleries galore that cater to even the most exacting tastes. However, as stylish and vibrant as Le Marais is, it manages to maintain a laid back attitude that makes all visitors feel welcome – in other words if you’re not trendy, don’t worry as you won’t stick out like a sore thumb.
STYLE & ATMOSPHERE
Occupying a typical 17th-century Parisian townhouse, Hotel Dupond-Smith sits quietly on a side street. If you were to walk past the outside of the hotel, you wouldn’t blink twice as apart from a small plaque on the wall, it’s almost featureless. However behind the doors of number 2 rue des Guillemites lies a luxury hotel that is a cut above all the rest. The inconspicuous façade of the hotel only adds to its secretive feel, emulating the exclusivity of a members club. On the inside, the hotel is a haven of refinement and although we hate to use such a clichéd term, it feels like ‘a quiet sanctuary amongst the bustling rues and avenues of Paris’.
From the moment you arrive, you already know that your stay will be a good experience. The lobby of the hotel is exceedingly clean, comfortable and well-appointed. The delightful receptionists have a great command of English (handy if your French is a little rusty) and being such a small hotel with a grand total of 8 rooms, they know who you are which makes you feel instantly important – something that you will never get in a big hotel. The friendly, welcoming staff are happy to help answer any questions you have about Paris without making you feel like a burden. They will even book you a table for dinner and suggest the best things for you to do in the area – who needs a travel book when you can get a first-hand insider’s guide to the city?
The décor of the hotel is a strange amalgam of styles. In the lobby the art work on the walls looks slightly oriental. The whitewashed walls wouldn’t look out of place in a Scandinavian home. Lamps hanging from the ceiling are vaguely similar to modern Chinese lanterns and there is an accord of taste and quality that gives it a French air. However, it’s the combination of beautifully designed furniture and expensive materials that fuses the hotels different styles together and it’s this creative flair that gives the hotel a luxurious feel without being ostentatious. This is a hotel that is fashionable, but with an atmosphere that is more secret hideaway than show off.
ROOMS
Rooms at the Dupond-Smith are everything that you expect a luxury boutique hotel room to be and more. Imagine a small, elegant luxury hotel apartment (minus a fully functioning kitchen) with comfortable furnishings, high quality fabrics and designer furniture and you will begin to get an idea of what the rooms are like. Like many boutique hotels, Dupond-Smith enlisted the help of some leading architects to design the rooms (Anne Peyroux and Emmanuèle Thisy in this case) and given the meticulous attention to detail and the comfortable yet elegant interiors of all the rooms, this was a wise choice indeed. Everything in the rooms scream quality and even the curtains, which are often an overlooked element, have been thoughtfully selected for each room.
Playing on the hotel’s conspicuous nature, the rooms are named after famous aliases and ‘noms de plume’ such as Alan B. Smithee, James Jewels and Mojo Risin, giving a playful identity to the hotel. They are fitted with all the amenities that you could wish for. If you’re gasping for a coffee after a day of exploring, then the Nespresso machine in each suite will give you your caffeine fix. The mini bar is fully stocked and the bathroom has lavish offerings of Diptyque products. The towels are as plush as puffy clouds and the bathrobes are made of supreme quality cotton. One of our favourite things about the rooms are the modern and luxurious free standing bath tubs. You’ll want to just dim the lights, fill the bath with bubbles and hang the ‘Do not Disturb sign’ on the door as soon as you arrive. Oh- and the beds are ridiculously comfy as well!
Some of the private suites offer the additional surprise of a balcony overlooking the rooftops, However, it’s not quite the balcony that Carrie Bradshaw has in “Sex and the City” – the one where the view of the Eiffel tower is so amazing that she squeals and jumps up and down for joy. Nonetheless, although you don’t get much of a view from the hotel as it’s not in prime sightseeing territory (the real attraction here is the copious options of good places to eat and drink nearby) the balconies are still absolutely lovely and the perfect place to sip champagne in Paris.
FOOD
A buffet breakfast is served downstairs all day until 4pm and is a delicious and impeccably neat affair. We realise that neat isn’t often a term used when describing a breakfast buffet as often they are a free-for-all. However, at The Dupond-Smith, every croissant, muffin and fruit bowl is carefully placed on the sides with the utmost care. In fact, the presentation of the buffet is so well done that you feel a little bad about messing up the painstakingly arranged display. And if you want to lie in (after all you are on holiday) you can arrange to have a breakfast tray brought to your room.
There is no restaurant on site but who cares? You’re in Paris, the home of some of the world’s very best restaurants. If you’re looking to eat locally then you don’t have to wander far from the hotel as Le Marais has a generous peppering of restaurants and you’ll soon spot many contenders – the hard part is not finding somewhere to eat, it’s choosing where. If you’re after some traditional Parisian fare Café Louis Phillippe comes highly recommended and if you’re looking for good food, cocktails and a lively atmosphere then La Panfoulia is a trendy restaurant a mere stone’s throw away from the hotel.
WHY BOOK?
For the perfect Parisian hotel experience.
The Dupond-Smith is the Parisian hotel fantasy – a fabulous find with exclusively elegant suites, beautiful bathrooms and a healthy dose of je ne sais quoi, located in the heart of Paris’s oldest and most visually stunning quarter which happens to be just a hop, skip and a jump from wonderful restaurants, cafés and a Metro station that will take you anywhere in the capital.
IDEAL stayed as a guest of Dupond Smith. For more information and to book visit: hoteldupondsmith.com
As the Malaysian durian (a smelly yet tasty fruit) enters our shores for the first time, we ask the Asian supermarket chain Wing Yip to share their favourite durian recipes to help you fall in love with the durian this year…
1. Blitz the durian flesh, cocoa powder and sugar in a food processor, until it becomes smooth. If using a vanilla pod, add the seeds to the durian mixture at this point.
2. Place the durian puree into a clean bowl and add the yogurt, folding them together.
3. Whip the cream until you form stiff peaks. Carefully fold this into the durian and yoghurt mix.
4. Place in an ice cream maker and mix until the durian mixture becomes very thick and starts to freeze. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, place in a covered container and freeze. Stir every 20-30 minutes until the mixture is almost frozen, approximately 2 hours.
5. Enjoy on its own or with fresh berries.
Discover the city of lurve from the comfort of one of Paris’s best luxury hotels.
Set in the heart of Paris’s glamorous Opera district, Banke Hotel (part of the Derby collection) is the perfect location for a romantic Paris rendezvous. Located on the corner of Rue La Fayette and Rue Pillet, the hotel’s stately façade dominates the street corner with a style that revives the charms of the city’s ‘Belle Epoque’ era. If it’s the instant wow-factor for a surprise break you’re after – Banke Hotel definitely has it. Built on the premises of a former bank headquarters with impressive twentieth-century architecture, the hotel immediately gives you a sense off occasion and romance as you enter the spectacular lobby.
A glass domed ceiling above the lobby floods the area with light which glints of the regal tones of red and gold in the furnishings. Despite the grand decor, the hotel’s staff are refreshingly friendly, helpful and professional in just the right quantities.
After the spectacular lobby the hotel’s guestrooms are of a more subdued style with shades of cream of chocolate damask leather headboards and a more contemporary feel. The hotel also boasts an extensive art collection with historically priceless jewellery from cultures around the world including Egyptian, African, pre-Columbian, Roman and Buddhist, which are interesting to look at as you wander the corridors.
The hotel is located in the city’s most exclusive shopping area in the 9th arrondissement, surrounded by grand boulevards lined with classic Parisian bistros and international shopping boutiques. The closest Metro station is just a couple of minutes’ walk away. The hotel has two restaurants to choose from – the more relaxed Josefin offering a mixture of Spanish and French cuisine with a contemporary twist, and Banke restaurant offering a more formal setting perfect for business lunch meetings. The quirkily furnished Lola Bar offers Spanish inspired tapas small plates and cocktails and statement gold leather sofas for reclining on.
Hotel Banke offers several packages for couples including the ‘Stay and Pleasure’ package which includes a luxury ‘Intimate Pleasure Anger’ Box by Lily Blossom, perfect for spicing up a weekend away.
Find more info about Banke Hotel and its offers here.
IDEAL Magazine stayed as a guest of the hotel and received a complimentary stay.
When the occasions like Valentines Day are around the corner, we start worrying about what to gift to our loved ones that they feel special and valued in our lives. One of the best gifting ideas is the personalised gifts, but, are they the best gifts. Well, if you think giving a personalised gift is the best way to show your love, then why not present a set of personalised items each month of the year, to your loved one and that too without any hassle.
Make This Valentine’s Day Special With A Customised Subscription Box
A subscription box is a unique concept where on subscribing; you are delivered a box of goodies carefully chosen as per your profile. For instance, if you have subscribed for a snack based subscription box and your profile says that you like peanut and other nuts based snacks, you would be delivered a box of some of the best tasting snacks from across the world in your preferred ingredients. These boxes are delivered each month, and all you have to do is a pay a reasonable subscription fee for quarterly, half yearly or yearly subscription.
These boxes also contain some of the samples by the renowned brands and you can choose any type of subscription box. You can choose from a range of subscription boxes including beauty box, grooming kit, DIY kit, snacks box, gourmet box, a box with baby products and many more.
These boxes can make interesting gifting ideas on the Valentine ’s Day, as you won’t be delivering a simple gift or a personalised one. Instead, a box full of amazing stuff from the most renowned brands from worldwide would be delivered, and that too not just once but every month. Each month, you can choose to repeat some items and some of the stuff would be completely new. It’s an amazing gift for your loved one as the carefully chosen lifestyle products make them feel good. Not only this, but the concept of a subscription box is relatively new, and thus, you can be rest assured that this new category of gift for your loved one would be cherished by them for a long time. Moreover, a new box would be delivered each month without any hassle. Thus, you only need to subscribe and not worry about delivering it to your loved ones.
Apart from the subscription boxes, you can also buy gifts online. If you are worried about the high costs, then you can try using the online discount codes, vouchers and deals to purchase the gifts from the top-notch online stores but at much lesser prices. These codes can be used to avail great discounts without compromising on the product quality. There are innumerable websites which offer the discount codes, such as “My Voucher Codes” etc.
From peace and tranquility, to nonstop partying and entertainment, beaches in Singapore have a lot to offer. Here’s a look at the 5 best beaches in Singapore that are loved by tourists and Singaporeans alike.
Palawan Beach
Located on the world famous Sentosa Island Resort this beach is completely designed on the theme of ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’. The beach has beam towers, treasure chests, pirate ship, and a rope bridge, connecting to a small island. You can walk this bridge or simply walk or swim across to the island. The prime feature of the island are the beach bars that open mid-day – from then on, it’s party time.
Tanjong Beach
Another beach that is a part of the Sentosa Island, the Tanjong Beach, is a man-made wonder. Crescent in shape, and dotted with palm trees, this beach is an out an out party destination. If you are in the mood to groove at the beach, make a beeline for Tanjong Beach.
Changi Beach
If you are in Singapore with your family, this is the place to be. Located in mainland Singapore, Changi Beach has many wonderful trails that attracts walkers and fitness fanatics alike. The beach is great for picnics and has barbecue pits that anyone can use.
Punnggol Beach
This quiet beach is peppered with boulders, which make for a great site at sunset. If you are tired of crowds, and just want to be left alone on the beach, find your way to Punggol Beach.
Lazarus Island
If you want to truly enjoy your Singapore holiday, then you must head to Lazarus Island. Singapore has many sub islands, and Lazarus island is one of them. This tropical beach with white sand and clear blue water is also connected to tropical forests full of unique flora and fauna. Just a short visit to the island won’t do. Tourists can stay at the St. John’s Island, and walk across the concrete bridge to Lazarus Island – Lazarus Island is truly worth your time.
Author: Akshay Koranne is professional travel blogger, who loves travel across the world. Specially Asian countries like UAE, Singapore , Maldives. He likes to share the travel experiences through blogging. Apart from this, he likes sports like cricket and badminton.
The beauty world is going crazy for Ruby Red’s Natural Botanical range – Vogue even named this natural skincare brand as a ‘must have’ product. The question is why? Well, Ruby Red are all about natural plant ingredients that actively improve your skin’s appearance.
They say their “products are rich in potent plant nutrients and vitamins combined with therapeutic aromatic blends which have been developed to work in harmony with the skin to improve texture, hydration and radiance of the skin, keeping it looking naturally healthy and glowing.”
Because of all the buzz surrounding this new found cult beauty brand, we asked Martine Burford, Founder of Ruby Red to share her top tips for a glowing body …
Ruby Red’s simple steps to radiant skin…..
Everyday
Try to use a gentle body cleanser or shower gel with natural ingredients as harsh soaps can strip your skin of moisture which will result in dry, flaky skin.
Pick one with an uplifting fragrance to get you going in the morning and something warmer and more soothing for the evening to help you relax.
You can also further protect your skin by showering in warm water – shower too hot and the heat actually result in allowing moisture to escape from your skin.
Treat your skin
Once a week, exfoliate in the shower – your skin will thank you for it by looking brighter and feeling softer. Removing dead skin that is dull or flaky will create instant radiance and it also means that your body lotion will be absorbed better.
Sleep
Night time is when our skin repairs and renews itself the most. Ensure you get seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep a night for optimal skin rejuvenation.
Moisturise your body as well as your face
Dry skin needs lots of moisture, allow the heat of your hands to warm your body lotion or cream and then massage into the body in a circular motion until it’s well absorbed – it will help to stimulate your circulation as well as softening your skin.
Water
The one rule that can’t be stressed enough – it’s essential to drink lots of water, especially when exercising to help keep you hydrated from the inside too!
Remember that healthy skin renews itself every 14 to 30 days so by encouraging this renewal process your skin will be better able to retain moisture and also produce more collagen making your skin look and feel more radiant!
Fancy some sexploring? Try these ten foods to use in the bedroom (plus two more for good luck) and make a mediocre night an incredibly memorable one
Thinking of trying something a little new and a little adventurous in the bedroom department. With the help of Spanish tapas restaurant chain, La Tasca, we have compiled a list of the top ten foods to use in the bedroom to give your love life that saucy edge!
Chocolate
Chocolate is something almost all of us enjoy, whatever the occasion, so why not take it into the bedroom? Hold a chunk in your mouth and guide it down your partner’s body or maybe try heating it up and seeing what you can do with melted chocolate. There are also lots of different varieties you can try, such as almond chocolate, which is really popular in Spain. Almonds are high in mono-saturated fats, which can increase testosterone levels.
But when should you eat dark chocolate for sex? Ideally, consuming dark chocolate about an hour before your intimate moments can help enhance mood and increase arousal, thanks to its natural aphrodisiac properties.
Sushi
Remember food is just the foreplay, not the full meal, so make sure it is bite-sized finger food, such as sushi, as indigestion could be a real turn off. Why not lie in wait for your partner, covered in tapas for them to eat off you. Imagine Samantha covered in sushi in Sex and The City and you will get the idea!
Sangria
Although not strictly food, alcohol is something that can similarly be enjoyed in the bedroom… in moderation! Why not trying pouring it into your partner’s belly button and then licking it out. Sangria contains red wine, which increases the blood flow and relaxes you – but remember not to go overboard!
Coconut oil (Aceite de coco)
As well as making fantastic cooking oil, coconut oil also makes a great lubricant, as well as smelling delightful, so keep a bottle handy.
Churros
Churros is a popular Spanish sugary pastry snack, which is slightly phallic in shape. You can have a Lady and the Tramp moment if you put one end in each of your mouths and nibble to the middle until you reach each other.
Ice (Hielo)
Melting an ice cube against your skin can be very pleasurable, especially on a hot day. Ice cream and popsicles can be a bit messy so sticking to normal ice can work wonders in the bedroom. The coldness of the ice, followed by the warmth of your mouth, will send shivers up your partner’s spine!
Alioli
Alioli is a Spanish garlic mayonnaise and whilst you may think garlic may not be great in the bedroom, it contains allicin, which increases blood flow. This can lead to improved stamina and sexual energy. However, we recommend eating it before you hit the bedroom and taking a mint!
Chorizo
Red meat, such as chorizo, contains high levels of protein and zinc, which is beneficial for testosterone production. However red meats can be quite high in saturated fat so don’t overindulge!
Honey (Miel)
This could get a little sticky but can also be very sexy. Pour a little onto your erogenous zones and let your partner lick it. Raw honey is rich in B vitamins, which support testosterone production, which can increase desire, as well estrogen production, which is key for female desire.
Tropical fruit (Fruta tropical)
As well as having some great nutritional benefits, tropical fruit can be pleasurable in the bedroom, so why not try adding some exotic fruits to your shopping list? A popular Spanish exotic fruit is a cherimoya or custard apple, which is creamy and tastes like a combination of banana, pineapple and strawberry! Use them as a teaser, running them along the body parts you want your partner to pay attention to!
And two more for good luck…
Whipped Cream
It’s the cliché of all sexual foods, but there is a reason why whipped cream is a classic in a bedroom. Whip some into your partners mouth and lick it off, or make yourself a whipped cream bikini!
Syrups
Syrup is the perfect bedroom food. It’s sweet, easy to drizzle and takes a bit of work to lick off.Whether you like chocolate, maple or strawberry syrup, this liquid concoction is perfect for pouring, licking and rubbing.
Top Tip
Just remember to hit the shower together afterwards and help your partner wash off! You never know – it may even lead to round two if you fancy dessert!
Does your stomach feel like a bottomless pit? Do you always find yourself reaching for seconds? It’s time to beat hunger! We asked our Nutritionists to give us their top tips… You are welcome!
Spend an extra hour in bed
“Studies have shown that a lack of sleep may cause us to eat 300-400 more calories the next day! And in order to keep energy levels high we tend to choose sugary or starchy quick fixes. Just one extra hour of sleep each night can increase leptin, the hormone that suppresses appetite,” says Lily Soutter, Nutritionist and weight loss expert at lilysoutternutrition.com.
Snack on an egg
“These make a great snack as the combination of protein and good fat help you feel fuller for longer. Try boiling them in advance, and keeping them in the fridge as an easy, snack to enjoy on the go. They will last up to a week,” says Shona Wilkinson, Nutritionist at Superfood.uk the online shopping destination for all things health and wellbeing.
Breakfast for champions
Shona explains, “Oats are brilliant for keeping hunger pangs at bay. They are nutritious and contain a good amount of fibre. They have been shown to help balance blood sugar levels, thus keeping sugar cravings and hunger pains at bay. A small bowl of porridge is a quick and easy snack and much better than reaching for that chocolate bar”.
Are you thirsty or hungry?
“It’s actually relatively common for people to confuse thirst for hunger, that’s why keeping your fluid intake up is really important. Try drinking a large glass of water when you are feeling those hunger pains and wait to see if they dissipate” says Dr Marilyn Glenville, the UK’s leading Nutritionist, author of Natural Alternatives to Sugar (www.marilynglenville.com).
Go green
“Adding in a teaspoon of a super greens mixture to your water or juice can help keep hunger at bay. It’s a great way to boost your nutritional intake with greens such as spirulina, chlorella and barley or wheat grass. These superfoods contain fibre, helping you to feel fuller for longer as well as many energy-giving nutrients such as B vitamins to help you get through the day. Try the new Natures Plus Ultra Green Juice (www.naturesplus.co.uk)” suggests Cassandra Barns, Nutritionist.
Drizzle vinegar on your salad
Shona says, “It improves digestion by keeping food in the stomach longer, reducing the hunger hormone ghrelin. Vinegar also helps prevent blood sugar spikes after a meal, helping cravings for up to 3 hours after”.
Tea time!
“The catechins found in green tea also help balance blood sugar levels. An added bonus is that green tea can help to lower cholesterol and triglycerides, as the polyphenols can help the body both eliminate cholesterol and stop its absorption. Try having 2 to 3 cups daily, in between meals” explains Lily.
Switch it off!
Do you eat your meals in front of a screen? Dr Glenville explains why you should turn if off. “You can eat up to 70% more if distracted by watching the TV or in a cinema. Research has shown that eating lunch in front of your computer makes it harder to remember what you have eaten and then you don’t feel as full. As a result, you will then be looking for something else to eat. In one study, computer users then ate twice as many biscuits half an hour later than the non-computer users eating lunch!”.
The ‘F” word
“Foods high in ‘good’ fats – such as oily fish, avocadoes, raw nuts, seeds and cold-pressed oils made from seeds can help slow the release of sugars into the blood and make us feel fuller, preventing cravings” says Dr Glenville.
Start with a soup
Dr Glenville explains “If you have soup before a meal you will end up eating less calories during the meal. The soup gives you the sensation of being fuller because it remains in the stomach for longer and makes you feel more satisfied. In addition, the soup remaining in the stomach stops the cells in the stomach producing your hunger hormone ghrelin and turns off your appetite”.
Light a vanilla scented candle
Have you heard of Christmas Dinner Syndrome? This is when the person who has been cooking doesn’t eat as much as their guests because they’ve been smelling dinner all day. There’s a theory that sweet scent reduces sugar cravings and can keep your hunger at bay.
Be a smart snacker
Lily explains how: “Almonds are rich in protein and healthy fats, giving you the energy boost you need whilst balancing blood sugar. This snack is exactly what we need to prevent carbohydrate and sugar cravings”.
Trick your brain full
When choosing plates go for blue. Why? Research shows that blue is a natural appetite suppressant. The colour is almost never found in natural foods, so our bodies have no natural appetite response to blue. It’s not only colour that matters though. Dr Glenville says that “we tend to put larger portions on larger plates and end up eating more food. If you can’t fit as much on a plate you will automatically be eating less”.
Call a friend
According to a study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, hearing a kind, familiar voice stimulates the brain to release oxytocin, a stress fighting, mood boosting, “love” hormone. “Reduced stress, on the other hand, has been linked to increases in your satiety hormone, leptin” Cassandra adds.
Instagram your meal
Yes, you’ve read it right! Dr Glenville explains why: “Researchers suggest that taking a photograph of food just before you eat, concentrates the mind to eat not only healthier foods but also less of it. The photographs seemed to deter binges”.
It’s February guys, have you already broken the promises you made to yourself in the New Year? Don’t worry, you’re not alone most people don’t actually change their life based on the promises they make after the clock strikes midnight. If you lasted this long, you’re already in the winner’s circle. Most people give up after the first few days. Why is this? Well, there are lots of reasons.
Usually, if you have a New Year resolution, it’s going to be a bad habit which is great. You want to get rid of all those nasty bad habits and be a better, healthier person, don’t you? Ah, but wait because those bad habits might also be coping mechanisms. For instance, you might have promised yourself you were going to give up drinking. Good plan, unless of course, that glass of wine at the end of the day has become the crutch that makes work manageable. Or, perhaps you have vowed to stop binging Netflix. Smart choice, yet what is life without a little escapism? It’s particularly hard to let go of it when it’s the thing that makes your life easier if it’s not going as well as you’d hoped. When you look at these little things in that light, is it any wonder we can’t let go of them? Of course, it’s not the only issue that’s stopping you from fulfilling your resolutions.
You Were On Holiday
Resolutions are made at the best time of the year. We’re filled with Christmas dinner, and we’re getting drunk, celebrating with friends. To say that are reality has been altered would be putting it mildly. We’re living a completely different life at this point, away from the stresses of work and real life. We start to convince ourselves we don’t need to things that make life better. At that point, we’re not feeling any stress at all. We’re strong, determined and we have the power of will to win. You can have a look at the power of this type of positive thinking on Successconsciousness.com.
Of course, once we get back to work and the daily routine it’s a whole other story. Suddenly, idiots are surrounding you all day and that bane of your existence is back in full force. What you really need to do is learn how to eliminate the stress from your life. That way, you won’t need the extra support that those bad habits provide.
One of the best ways to deal with stress is with breathing exercises. No, it won’t eliminate it completely. But, it will help you calm down once you start to feel tense. You might also want to try and get a better night of rest each day. The night is the time for our body to heal and rejuvenate. To relax and recuperate. If you’re having trouble sleeping, you will feel terrible through the day. You’ll need the Ben & Jerry’s tub in the freezer to make yourself feel better.
Are You Serious?
Probably not, those resolutions weren’t actually meant to matter were they? Be honest, when you said them out loud, did you feel like it was the start of a new chapter in your life. Of course, you didn’t, you were probably half being sarcastic. Meanwhile, the other half was looking on in deep denial. Life changes aren’t started because you had a couple too many glasses of champagne. If you want to change your life, you need to want it. You need to want it more than anything because that’s the only way to beat some bad habits. Don’t forget, if you think the problem is serious enough you need to stop, you’re probably dealing with an addiction. You need to be committed, determined and dedicated. This is the only way things are going to change. Check out NHS.uk for the best ways to deal with a real addiction.
If you are serious, you can take immediate action and fight to stay on the right path. Don’t give up after your first bad day at work. Keep pushing through because ultimately it will be worth it. Although there is another issue to deal with here.
You’re Doing It Wrong
“I’m going to stop doing blah blah starting right now.” That’s the typical resolution, isn’t it? “Or I’m going to start doing blah blah, beginning tomorrow.” You see the problem? People don’t give themselves any time to get used to the idea. Do you know what happens if you start working out after never doing it before in your life? You’ll feel great the whole time. You’ll feel powerful, strong, determined. Then you’ll go to bed, and the next day you’ll wake up unable to move your arms or legs. This isn’t an exaggeration! Your muscles will ache, and you’ll struggle to get out of bed. You will then promise yourself never to try that again, roll over and have a nice lie in. Going full steam ahead is never the right option when you’re trying to change your life. Neither is cutting something out completely.
You might love smoking, or at least your body does. Personally, you hate the stink of cigarettes and having an ashtray for a mouth. You can’t stand those lines that are starting to show around your lips, and you want to stop. Your body, on the other hand, has other plans. You’re not the only one addicted, your body is too, you can’t just cut it off. You need to start the process slowly and continue on from there. For instance, you can visit a site like Tekcig.co.uk and have a look at some e-cigarettes. These are useful because you can slowly lower the dose of nicotine until you reach zero. Better yet, you can still get the calming sensation that smoking gives you without the nasty chemicals.
We hope you see now there are clear reasons why your resolutions aren’t going according to plan. If you are facing these issues, it’s time to sort the problem out. Either get serious about changing the game or stop pretending. But remember if you commit you really can start changing your life for the better. You can be healthier, happier and live your life to the full. Flickr Picture
In recent years, a score of young chefs armed with pride in Nordic cuisine and a passion for local ingredients have set up their own restaurants in Finnish capital Helsinki.
Helsinki is a compact city easily explored on foot, which makes discovering its restaurant scene handy to combine with sightseeing or shopping, for example. The Finnish Tourist Board www.visitfinland.com suggests these pit stops when criss-crossing the Finnish capital.
Chef & Sommelier
Situated in the posh area of Eira, a meal at Chef & Sommelier guarantees personal service and several heavenly courses. Organic, handmade and pure are the keywords here – not forgetting cute.
Juuri is most famous for its speciality, Sapas, a Finnish take on the famous hors d’oeuvres. Sample the fruits of Finnish nature with these classy finger foods before moving on to the equally wild main courses
juuri.fi
Nokka
Restaurant Nokka takes great pride in its ingredients and maintains close relations with local suppliers and small farms. Their awarded Helsinki Menu is great for first-time visitors.
Olo
Since its inception in 2006, restaurant Olo has been at the top of Helsinki’s dining scene, and its success culminated in a Michelin star in 2011. Modern Nordic cuisine with respect for traditional raw ingredients.
The proprietors of Ask have worked in various top restaurants in town before setting up this newcomer. Seasonal and organic is the name of the game in a beautiful art nouveau setting in the Kruununhaka area. They offer a daily set menu and source our produce from small farmers and producers. All products comes from organic or biodynamic farming, except the game, wild fish and other foraged products.
Spis is a small and cosy little restaurant with vegetables at the core of their fresh Nordic ingredients philosophy. Meat and fish are always available, too, as are artisan wines and Nordic beers for drinks.
The Abattoir by its English moniker, Teurastamo is a slaughterhouse-turned-creative-food-hub. Truly innovative, Teurastamo provides a place for small food related businesses to try out new concepts.
Fancy some Finnish local food products to take back home? Eat & Joy Farmers Market in the Kluuvi Shopping Centre is the place to go shopping. The markets are open seven days a week and have delicacies from more than 500 small producers across Finland: wild reindeer (poro), salmon, artisan cheeses, berry jams, fish roe, hand-crafted beer and cider, mushrooms, rye bread, smoked specialities, kyyttö forest cow, artisan chocolates and much more – all direct from the producers. Don’t miss their Muuuu Milk Bar.
Situated in the deepest depths of South West England, Cornwall is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK and is famed for its natural beauty, sandy beaches and surfing. The Cornish are also fiercely – and quite rightly – proud of their individuality, with their own language, dress and delectable regional dishes. So much so, in fact, that recently they were officially recognised as a national minority for the first time. All of this unique personality and regional pride leads to a rare, fascinating experience, with activities abound for the whole family which you wouldn’t find anywhere else on the planet.
With all this in mind, we’ve teamed up with holiday cottage specialists Blue Chip Holidays to offer some of the best Cornwall experiences for those wanting to try something a little different. So, here are 6 alternative activities in Cornwall for an IDEAL trip off the beaten track.
St Nectan’s Kieve
When we think of waterfalls, exotic images of grand, majestic cascades from far flung places spring to mind. Sites like Niagara falls have set the water level so high that the UK is not somewhere we typically associate with the wondrous wet. As a result, many of our own go unnoticed; perhaps a blessing because much of their natural beauty is preserved.
One such unique waterfall can be found in Cornwall. Tucked away off a coastal road between Boscastle and Tintagel, St Nectan’s Kieve is a stunning 60 ft waterfall fed by the Trevillet River, which flows through St Nectan’s Glen and onto the sea at Rocky Valley. It’s not only beautiful, but it’s also believed to be a place where fairies and other mythical creatures gather. Look out for brightly coloured ribbons hanging from trees around the site – this is a Celtic tradition of leaving pieces of cloth known as ‘clouties’ near water sources for good luck and health.
Mention Firstral to a surf fan and watch the pavlov-esque reaction of goosebumps rising and excitement building. The beach is akin to mecca for watersports aficionados and is famed for being the home of British surfing due to the consistency and quality of its waves. The International Surfing Centre is based here – need we say more? – and full of a variety of businesses, cafes and restaurants serve the thronging mass of bronzed, blonde haired beach bums and babes.
The Museum Of Witchcraft And Magic
Housing the world’s largest collection of pieces relating to witchcraft, the occult and magic, the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic is perfect for those wanting an intriguing, spooky experience. It’s all very knowingly weird and, as such, very knowingly Cornish!
Established in Boscatle in 1961 and with over 3,000 items including charms, curses, dolls and trinkets, this independent museum is one of the most popular in Cornwall, and is dedicated to preserving the great variety of magical practice through its educational exhibitions.
Although a little morbid, there is something mysterious and exciting about shipwrecks. The Shipwreck & Heritage Centre has one of the largest private collections of shipwreck and historical artefacts on display in Europe, and is great for those who want to learn about the temperamental mistress that is the Cornish coastline.
This display features displays from over 150 shipwrecks, as well as exhibitions that feature the history of Charlestown, village life and the once thriving China Clay industry. The exhibition hosts an array of maritime history dating back to 1715 and has one of the largest underwater diving equipment assortments in the country, including various underwater suits used for treasure hunting and other naval purposes.
Eden Project
The Eden Project houses the largest indoor rainforest in the world. Enough said.
Ok, so this one isn’t exactly off the beaten track as it’s one of Cornwall’s most popular attractions, but it’s home to so many weird and wonderful exotic plants and fruits that you’d find off the beaten path (in another country that is) we reckon we can get away with including it.
The dedication to environmental education and the interdependence of plants and people here will provide an invaluable education for all the family.
The complex is famed for its two huge enclosures – iconic images recognisable the world over – consisting of connecting domes that house thousands of plant species; one emulating a natural Rainforest environment and the other a Mediterranean environment. Incredible stuff.
The Eden Project also has an outside botanical garden which plays host to a variety of plants and wildlife native to the U.K and Cornwall. The attraction is also home to a range of family friendly events to experience throughout the year including music festivals during the summer and the Festival of Light and Sound during the winter months.
Davidstow Airfield & Cornwall At War Museum
Situated on Davidstow Moor Airfield, the Cornwall At War Museum is a great day out for all. Primarily covering the history of RAF Davidstow moor, the museum also hosts exhibits on other North Coast airfields and details wartime life in Cornwall.
Spread across multiple buildings on the complex, some feature mixed displays and others dedicated to specific military forces such as the RAF, the Army and the Royal Navy. Although many of the exhibitions and artefacts are from the WWII era, there is also an extensive collection of wartime memorabilia dating from WWI to the Falklands Conflict.
Visitors can get refreshments at the onsite NAAFI and the museum is wheelchair and dog friendly too.
