This is particularly necessary during overseas business trips or vacations, as your assets can be even more exposed to the financial repercussions of all sorts of disasters.
With that in mind, here is a rundown of the most important types of insurance to purchase if you’re traveling abroad this year.
Car insurance
Whether you’re driving your own vehicle across national borders, or you’re renting a car when you arrive at your destination, insurance is your best friend.
Some car rental operators have their own insurance packages in place, but these often come with all sorts of unforeseen caveats that might come back to bite you if you do need to make a claim.
For example, it’s better to work with car insurance experts if you’re traveling to the UAE or Dubai. That way you can find a comprehensive policy that meets your needs and your budget, while also being tailored to the particular quirks of the countries you’re visiting.
Health insurance
Your health is arguably your most important asset, and when you’re away from home there are all sorts of perils and potential pitfalls which can compromise it.
You don’t want a healthcare emergency to be compounded by the prospect of a big bill from a doctor or hospital, so once again insurance can ride to the rescue, whatever you face.
Health insurance for overseas travel has to encompass the kinds of activities you’ll be getting up to on your trip. This means that people who are just traveling for business need a different policy to someone who’s planning to participate in extreme sports, for example.
Gadget insurance
Another essential asset in the modern age is your mobile phone, and this might be one of several gadgets that you pack in your luggage to head on a holiday.
With a separate gadget insurance policy under your belt, you’ll be able to make a claim if your precious devices are lost or stolen, and even if they are damaged when you are in foreign climes.
Just remember that not all policies will cover you in every eventuality, so check the small print and be discerning in which insurance product you choose.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is an all-encompassing term, but it can actually be unhelpfully broad because of just how many different packages it encompasses.
For example, some travel insurance deals will include some of the types mentioned above of covers, such as health insurance and gadget insurance, while others will not.
You really need travel insurance to step in should your plans be disrupted for any reason, whether that’s a delayed flight, an issue with the hotel, a cancellation that was out of your hands, or anything else.
You don’t want to be on a trip and find that you’re having to hand over even more cash to account for disruptive dilemmas like this, so insurance gives you the peace of mind that you can claim any expenses back when the dust has settled.
The bottom line
Attention to detail when deciding on insurance for international adventures is vital. You need to know your circumstances inside out in order to decide which package is most suitable, and you also have to do your research to ensure that the insurers you select are up to the task of helping you in worst-case scenarios.
While we can learn from mistakes, it’s better to know what can go wrong and take steps to avoid this in the first place, which is definitely true where international insurance is concerned.
Capri by Fraser Barcelona offers a sleekly modern stay in a quiet residential enclave within a walking distance from the beach on the one side and Sagrada Familia on the other. Nestled in the up-and-coming 22@ business district within the Sant Martí area of the city, this intimate hotel offers 97 exquisitely designed apartments, perfect for both corporate travellers and tourists. The vibe is laid-back and modern, with lots of colour and cool art. Whether you’re staying in a studio or a one-bed apartment, you’ll enjoy a spacious living space with a 32” LCD TV offering a range of international channels, a kitchen equipped with a microwave, a fridge and tea and coffee facilities, and a dining area. Each bathroom comes with a rain shower and a selection of luxurious Malin and Goetz toiletries. For the business traveller, the apartments in Capri by Fraser Barcelona also have a designated workspace, where you can tick off some work tasks before going to bed or first thing in the morning.
The lounge and lobby spaces are inviting and classy, with funky art and oodles of comfortable seating tucked right up against the wall of street-level windows. Service is smart and top-notch - you’ll get to know the staff within a day, and they will know your name within five minutes. The shared amenities are impressive as well – there’s a children’s playroom, a laundry room, a rooftop solarium, as well as a fully-equipped 24-hour gym.
What makes Capri by Fraser perfect for business travel is its excellent conference facilities. Its four meeting rooms can be used for boardroom meetings (up to 48 pax), seminars with classroom-seating (up to 135 pax), theatre-style presentations (up to 110 pax), training courses and banquets. A business centre where you can check your email, prepare for a meeting or catch up on the news is available too.
Breakfast is served at Caprlilicious and consists of an extensive buffet. Tuck into a selection of continental classics and Spanish favourites prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant also offers an a la carte lunch menu, whilst drinks and snacks can be enjoyed at the lobby bar, where guests can sit down and unwind at any point of the day.
For more information and to book your stay, please go to https://barcelona.capribyfraser.com/en
London is just as beautiful in the winter, as it is in any other season and all 30 million tourists that flock to the UK’s capital every year will probably agree that it is one of those cities which offer something for everyone. Pack a warm coat and an umbrella and book your trip to this ever-changing metropolis which promises to make you fall in love with its beautiful, bustling streets – even in January!
London is one of the most visited cities in the world and as such, its hospitality industry is brimming with everything from small boutique stays to a myriad of luxury hotels. So when we think of where to stay in London, it’s safe to say we’d want something unique – something that you’d be hard pushed to find in any of the other hundreds of options. With its ridiculously convenient location - directly opposite St James’ Park tube station, less than a 10-minute stroll from the Houses of Parliament, and a short walk to Trafalgar Square – choosing to stay at Conrad London St James is definitely a decision you won’t regret. A luxury brand of the Hilton chain, with hotels in 35 different cities across the world, Conrad Hotels provide their guests with everything they could possibly desire. The rooms and suites at Conrad London St James are just what you’d expect of a five-star luxury hotel: big King-sized beds, comfortable living areas and spacious brown-marble bathrooms. If you stay at one of the executive rooms, a suite or if you’re a Diamond Tier Hilton Honours member, you’ll be granted access to Conrad London St James’ executive lounge where you can enjoy complimentary drinks during the day, as well as a private breakfast buffet, afternoon treats, afternoon tea, as well as evening canapés and alcoholic drinks. Soak up tranquil vibes, whilst sipping a coffee or stop by for a quick aperitivo before dashing to dinner.
London is one of the most exciting and diverse restaurant capitals in the world and Conrad London St James’ ideal locations means that you’ll be in close proximity to an impressive array of exceptional restaurants and bars. However, make sure you leave time for a meal at Blue Boar Restaurant in the hotel, too. It focusses predominantly on staples like steaks and burgers, but there’s plenty of other options too like a selection of seafood dishes (the pan-roasted halibut with Jerusalem artichoke, toasted hazelnut, truffle, herb crust, baby leeks, wild mushrooms & red wine jus is to die for), as well as a selection of fresh salads. And after dinner, pop into Blue Boar Bar for a politically-themed cocktail; how about a gin-based ‘Corbyn’s Reign’ or a ‘Theresa’s Kitten Heels’ which comes with vodka, blue curaçao, lime, sugar syrup and prosecco?
Breakfast is served at Blue Boar Restaurant too – it comprises an extensive continental buffet which offers all the classics, as well as an à la carte menu. For another taste of British culture, head to Emmeline’s Lounge (named after British political activist Emmeline Pankhurst), where you can indulge in a quintessentially British afternoon tea or a Champagne brunch.
If you’re travelling to London for work, Conrad London St James also offers an impressive business centre and numerous function rooms.
For more information and to book your stay, please go to www.conradhotels.com/london
Spread across a 125-acre North Devon estate between Exmoor and Dartmoor, Highbullen Hotel is the perfect spot for a relaxing weekend getaway. Once you enter the grounds of the hotel, you feel like you’ve escaped from civilisation, but if you worry about its isolated location – don’t; its 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, swimming pool and a spa make it a destination of its own right where you won’t feel bored for a second. Wherever you are in the hotel, you’re surrounded by uninterrupted lush greenery as far as the eye can see, while at the same time, Highbullen Hotel is a convenient base from which to explore myriad picturesque villages, quaint pubs and of course, the beach, which is only a 40 min drive away.
The hotel is country-luxe personified: fires crackle at every turn, cosy lounges invite intimate nightcaps, and the attentive staff on duty make the manor house feel like a home. Rooms here are in keeping with the charm and cosiness of the house - each of the 12 bedrooms in the main building is lavishly decorated with antique furnishings, exquisite chandeliers and swagged curtains. For the best views, book one of the hotel’s Golf View rooms. In addition to these, there are a further 26 contemporary rooms in buildings across the estate which cater for bigger groups of people.
For afternoon tea, pop into the recently opened Laura Ashley Tea Room. Designed in the distinctive Laura Ashley style, it offers a menu of different types of afternoon tea, brunch and cakes and provides guests with unrivalled views of the stunning British countryside. The fine-dining 2AA Rosette Devon View restaurant serves seasonal and local produce with a modern British theme across all dishes, which could be paired with an array of sublime wines from the restaurant’s wine list. For a more casual meal or lunch, head down to Cellars Restaurants for fish & chips, a pizza or a Shepherd’s pie. Breakfast is served at Devon View and comprises a small buffet, as well as cooked-to-order classics such as full English, eggs and porridge.
A short walk away from the main house is the modern Pavilion, where there’s an indoor lap pool, a fully-equipped gym, a sports bar, a steam room, a sauna and a spa offering a number of relaxing Elemis treatments. In addition to the 18-hole golf course which surrounds the hotel, there are also four hard tennis courts, two half-courts for children, croquet lawns and an outdoor pool which is available in the summer only.
For more information and to book your stay, please go to http://www.highbullen.co.uk/
Located in the City of London area, just a 10-minute walk from St Paul's Cathedral, Apex Temple Court Hotel offers surprisingly quiet rooms for its central location and is a place where you can unwind and recharge after a busy day of meetings. Once you walk through its doors, you enter a peaceful courtyard which immediately feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of London. This is where you can find the alfresco area of Fleet Street’s newest wine bar, The Amicable Society of Lazy Ballerinas. Offering an extensive selection of old and new wines, a menu of scrumptious small plates perfect for sharing and ultra aesthetically pleasing décor, the bar attracts both hotel guests and Londoners popping in for an after-work drink. There are also two private dining rooms, both offering seating for 16 guests, or alternatively, 30 guests for a drinks reception, which can be booked for meetings, events or wine tastings.
Across the courtyard, you’ll find the hotel’s Club Lounge, a relaxed place where you can have a casual business meeting or bring your laptop and work, and Chambers Restaurant, where breakfast is served. Start your morning with continental staples and cooked-to-order classics like Full English, Eggs Benedict and pancakes and come back for lunch or dinner – the a la carte menu offers everything from steaks and burgers, through to lighter options like fish and salads.
For a real taste of luxury, stay at one of the hotel’s suites. Home to every indulgent touch you desire, they boast impressive period features including beautiful fireplaces, huge, squishy beds, a cosy living area and a luxurious, marble bathroom with a walk-in shower and bathtub, complete with underfloor heating and bespoke furniture. With Bang & Olufsen Bluetooth speakers, a vanity mirror TV in the bathroom and two more LED TVs (one in the bedroom and one in the living room), you are spoilt for choice when it comes to entertainment. And if this isn’t enough, thoughtful touches like complimentary arrival drinks, a Nespresso Vertuo coffee machine, Temple Spa products and free-of-charge drinks and snacks at the Club Lounge which all suite guests enjoy exclusive access to will make your stay truly special.
For more information and to book your stay, please go to https://www.apexhotels.co.uk/apex-temple-court-hotel
With huge, squishy beds and views across the beautiful Houses of the Parliament to the right and the River Thames to the left, the rooms at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge are spacious, sharing a restful, simple colour palette with touches of red here and there and a classic collection of furniture. Business guests are well looked after with free wifi, espresso machines and a desk in each room. As with the bedrooms, the ground-floor lobby is simple in style but feels very contemporary and cosmopolitan.
An important factor to consider when choosing a business hotel in London is its food offering and Park Plaza Westminster Bridge certainly does not disappoint in this regard. Head to either the award-winning Brasserie Joël or the popular Ichi Sushi & Sashimi Bar for a formal meal, or have a quick bite before your next meeting at Primo Bar. And if you are too tired to make it to dinner, do not fret – the hotel also offers 24-hour room service. In case you need a little pick-me-up before dashing out the door, grab an expertly crafted Italian coffee from illy Caffè to bring with you.
There’s nothing quite like coming back from a day of long meetings to a hotel that has a spa and Park Plaza Westminster Bridge’s gorgeous Mandara Spa promises to help you escape from the hustle and bustle of London and switch off completely. The décor takes inspiration from the island of Bali and offers an extraordinary range of treatments and products from Mandara Spa, ELEMIS Face & Body Therapies and CND Nails and Waxing. For those who like to keep active during a work trip, the spa also offers a state-of-the-art gymnasium.
With its 32 conference rooms to choose from, which include the signature 1,200 sqm pillar-free Westminster Ballroom (which can host up to 1,350 diners or 2,000 delegates theatre-style), Park Plaza Westminster Bridge is undoubtedly one of London's leading meetings venues. The outstanding Ballroom comes with removable walls, integrated pin-spot lighting, a heavy goods lift, private bar and a dedicated meeting planner's office. The hotel also offers two smaller suites – Plaza and Park Suites – which can accommodate up to 1,000 guests and include a dedicated foyer and Business Centre. On top of this, more intimate boardrooms for up to 24 attendees can be found on each floor of the building.
For more information or to book your stay or event, please go to: https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/park-plaza-westminster-bridge-london?cid=b:gmb+c:emea+e:pph+d:cese+f:en-US+h:PPWL#
Set right next to Mansion House station, Vintry & Mercer creates a feeling of grandeur mixed with a little millennial quirkiness. Every little detail is extremely aesthetically pleasing, whilst the ambience is so relaxed and refreshingly un-corporate that it feels more like a luxurious modern home than a hotel right in the middle of London.
Opened in February this year and named after the two commercial wards on the hotel's doorstep (Vintry where fine wines would be delivered from France and Mercer which is the former haunt of noble merchants who traded in high-quality silks, damasks and linens), the hotel’s lavish décor celebrates London’s trading links. Fusing the past with modernity, the 92 sumptuous bespoke rooms and suites (which come in 5 categories) take inspiration from Mercer and feature deep blue, maroon or mustard-coloured velvet headboards, leather door handles, framed London street maps and wallpapered walls. A flatscreen TV, minibar, tea and coffee facilities and an exquisite marble bathroom finish off each room, making it so cosy and homely that leaving it for the hustle and bustle of London feels like a ludicrous idea. And if you do decide to simply stay in, the rooms have a ‘do not disturb’ button (as well as a ‘make up my room’ button) instead of a card to hang on the door – we did warn you that the hotel is brand new and super modern.
For dinner, head down to the ground floor where you’ll find Vintry Izakaya - an Asian tapas eatery where wine plays an important part and is poured straight from large barrels lining the gantry. The menu oozes with bold Asian flavours and offers anything from classic steamed buns and shrimp tempura or Wagyu katsu sandos, through to more inventive dishes like beef rib teriyaki arancini or kimchi and blue cheese fries. Our personal favourites were the miso and sesame seeds Padron peppers and the cooked to perfection sweet miso glazed aubergine. The saddest thing about tapas dinners is that you often order so many small plates of food to share that you could potentially end up feeling too full for pudding, which is a pity when the restaurant offers dangerously inticing desserts like Vietnamese espresso mousse or matcha Opera cake with berry sorbet. All is well though – I suppose this would be a good enough excuse to visit again and hopefully order less this time around. Breakfast is also served at Vintry Izakaya and comprises of a continental buffet and cooked-to-order dishes like traditional full English, but also Asian options like eggs Florentine on steamed bao buns.
After dinner, move to the dimly lit Do Not Disturb cocktail bar inspired by the clandestine bars of 1920s New York and finish off the night with a barrel-aged glass of Manhattan.
Most wow-worthy, however, is Vintry & Mercer’s rooftop terrace and the stunning views it boasts. Filled with light thanks to the glass-panelled roof, the restaurant promises to be a popular dinner spot for Londoners this summer. The menu focusses on modern British cuisine, introducing guests to fresh meat and fish from the British Isles. Dishes include mouth-watering Cornish crab, British asparagus, oysters and lobster, as well as hay-smoked beef tartare and Tomahawk steaks. The atmosphere is vibrant and lively and the décor is ridiculously instagrammable.
For those willing to break a sweat after all the beautiful food on offer at Vintry & Mercer, the hotel also has a small gym equipped with the latest Life Fitness workout equipment — a treadmill, exercise bike, cross trainer and rowing machine, as well as an integrated digital screen with Internet access and an iPhone dock.
And if you need any more reasons as to why Vintry & Mercer needs to be your home away from home when you next visit London (not that you probably do), the newly-built hotel is functioning solely on renewable electricity, sourced from wind, solar and biomass generators. It has solar panels on the roof toe, ensuring a minimal effect on the environment.
For more information and to book your stay, please go to https://www.vintryandmercer.com/
Just a 40-minute drive from Faro International Airport, Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort is a recently renovated, upscale resort offering coastal luxury, jaw-dropping ocean views, a rooftop bar, scrumptious cuisine and impeccable service. Designed with its location in mind, the hotel offers 248 spacious guest rooms and junior suites, most of which offer panoramic views of the mighty Atlantic. All rooms are extremely well-appointed, with comfy beds, a TV, a powerful shower and a coffee machine. The big bonus, especially for all the sea-facing rooms, is a private terrace with panoramic views - the perfect place to enjoy coffee and a book in the morning, or a glass of aromatic Algarvian red wine at sundown. Guests looking for the ultimate Tivoli Carvoeiro experience can book one of the hotel’s two exquisite suites – the Tivoli Junior Suite, which comes with a private hot tub on the balcony or the Carvoeiro Suite, which has a spacious living room, an open-plan bathroom and complimentary soft drinks in the minibar.
Tivoli Carvoeiro’s crowning glory, however, is its swimming pool - big enough to have a proper swim in, and quiet enough for lazy days in the sunshine, with sun loungers, complimentary towels and a pool bar to hand. When all that relaxing in the sun gets too much, visit Tivoli Carvoeiro’s Spa and treat yourself to one of their signature massages, scrubs or facials using Voya Organic Beauty products made with 100% organic seaweed handpicked from the Atlantic Ocean.
Algarvians know a thing or two about food and Tivoli Carvoeiro’s mission is to prove to you that this really is the case. Breakfast is served in the bright and spacious Mare Bistro where you can enjoy an extensive selection of continental favourites. Lunch is also available there, but if you prefer a change of scenery, have lunch on Med Food and Wine’s sunny balcony. The buffet-style restaurant offers a different cuisine every week and can take you on a journey of flavours, without completely forgetting about the Algarve and the region’s exceptional seafood creations.
Enjoy a pre-dinner aperitivo and live DJ sets at the hotel’s snazzy Sky Bar or at the equally stunning Azur Bar a few floors down and once the sun has set, head to The One Wine Boutique Restaurant to indulge in freshly caught seafood paired with superb Portuguese wines, carefully chosen by the restaurant’s sommeliers.
What to do
Soak.up.the.sun. Whether it’s through lazing around by the resort’s gorgeous pool or through sipping on refreshing cocktails in Tivoli Carvoeiro’s atmospheric rooftop bar, make sure you make the most out of Portugal’s 300 days of sunshine a year. Put your trainers on and set off on a hike - The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is the best way to explore the unusual geology of the Algarve and take in some of the most beautiful views in the region. The 5.7km trail links Praia de Vale Centeanes to Praia da Marinha and passes through Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort, making it ridiculously easy for guests of the hotel to start the hike from the resort’s back doors.
With eight golf courses spread within 20km from Tivoli Carvoeiro, the resort is also a perfect spot for golf enthusiasts. Leave everything in the Golf Desk’s hands – from tailoring your golf holiday and booking everything for you, through to renting and cleaning your equipment and driving you to your preferred golf course – you won’t have a single thing to worry about. And isn’t this what holidays are all about!
A trip to the Algarve would be incomplete without visiting one of the region’s wineries for an afternoon of wine tasting in the sun. If you want to try some of the most sublime wines of the region, paired with a tapas lunch consisting of beautiful Portuguese cheeses and cold cuts, visit Quinta da Vinha Cabrita - a wonderful family-owned winery just a 15-minute drive from Tivoli Carvoeiro.
For more information or to book your stay, please go to https://www.tivolihotels.com/en/tivoli-carvoeiro/
It’s not that often that I fall speechless. In fact, there are so many beautiful adjectives in the English language that could perfectly describe a luxurious villa in a five-star resort, however, upon entering our private Residence at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort & Spa, I was rendered speechless. The word ‘paradise’ is thrown around far too frequently by pretty much everyone who goes on a tropical holiday nowadays, but I’d be damned if someone wanted to tell me that I wasn’t right in the midst of it.
We dab our faces with the refreshingly cool towels handed to us by the Residence butler Sean (who we would quickly grow to absolutely adore), take a sip of our welcome guava juice and begin exploring the pool area and the high-ceilinged rooms of one of the resort’s 15 uniquely designed Residences; perched on a lush hill which overlooks a calm lagoon at the end of Layan Beach in Phuket. The attention to detail is truly impressive – from the smell of frangipani coming from the front garden you walk past upon entering, through to the delicate oriental touches in the interior and the desserts that have been laid out for us in the living room - a thought has been put into every little detail. Even things like a beach bag and the vast selection of Bulgari products, including bath salts, in the bathroom area (which is quite possibly bigger than a standard studio in London), haven’t flown under the radar and this attention to the miniscule is echoed in the service provided by not only the staff in the Residence but in the whole resort.
The focal point in our Residence is undoubtedly the front garden with its extensive infinity pool (which was all we needed after a 17-hour journey from the UK) and the outdoor dining sala where we would have breakfast the following morning. Palm trees, sun loungers and sunbeds adorn the poolside and everything is so aesthetically pleasing and achingly beautiful that I feel the urge to spend the night right there – under the filled-with-stars Thai sky.
Still recovering from the flight, we take a golf buggy down to the spa on our first day, fully ready for a signature couples massage. As with any Anantara property, a phenomenal spa is to be expected. Fully in line with Anantara Layan Phuket Resort’s authenticity, the spa is finished beautifully with Thai decorative elements and offers seven luxury treatment rooms, male and female steam rooms, a hairdressing salon and an OPI nail salon. Our masseuses begin the treatment with a foot bath, but the next hour is a blur as the combination of Thai massage techniques soothes me into a state of bliss. Once the massage’s over, we ease ourselves back into reality with a cup of herbal tea and granola bars which were waiting for us in the post-treatment relaxation room.
For those wishing to expend energy, the spa also offers a fully equipped state-of-the-art gym, which overlooks a stunning outdoor pool set amongst lush greenery; I’m positive that I’ve had to look at worse things whilst running on a treadmill. Or if you’d like to fully embrace the fact that you’re in Thailand, whilst still breaking a sweat, book a private Muay Thai boxing class. Due to the resort’s perfect location on a private beach, guests can also try an abundance of water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding and sailing.
Foodies will be in raptures over Anantara Layan Phuket Resort's culinary offering which compiles a range of dining options. Dee Plee Restaurant showcases Thai delicacies made with quality local ingredients. Indulge in a selection of fragrant curries and stir-fries, fresh seafood creations and traditional desserts. Tables are set out both indoors and outdoors, with the seating on the terrace overlooking the calm Andaman Sea.
The poolside restaurant Breeze and its menu consisting of light salads, grilled fish, pizzas and pasta, as well as cooling fruit juices and coconut water, quickly becomes a favourite for lazy lunches in the shade after a few hours of sunbathing or a more casual dinner. But for an extra special meal, book a Dining by Design evening, which includes an intimate dinner under the stars with a personal chef and a butler service. The location could be chosen by you, but the beach is, naturally, highly recommended.
Every morning begins with a coffee by our Residence’s pool, followed by a buggy ride to breakfast; a sensational sprawling buffet set out in a few different rooms (yes, I did say a few - there is a whole room dedicated to cheese and cold cuts only). In addition to an impressive continental offering and a myriad of western staples, there is a varied mixture of traditional Asian breakfast items such as noodle soup, spring rolls and the Thai version of French toast, as well as Middle Eastern dips and dishes like hummus, Baba Ganoush and tagine. There’s also a pancake and waffle station as well as an omelette bar where friendly chefs cook up a storm, making me wish I had more room in my belly to try all of the mouth-watering food on offer. My personal highlight was the luscious tropical fruit and juices; if only I could have a plate of freshly-picked dragon fruit, papaya, pineapple and mango every morning for the rest of my life.
On our last night, as we peacefully sip on ice-cold mojitos in the resort’s beach bar (fittingly called Mojito), watching the sun dip below the horizon, I muse upon the moments in my life when I have felt fully complete, content and in utter harmony with my surroundings. I reflect on the fact that our whole stay at one of the Layan Residences by Anantara has been one of these moments and I impatiently await my return to this heavenly place.
For more information or to book your stay, please go to:
https://www.anantara.com/en/layan-residences-phuket/residences
Ah, Rome. I keep coming back to the Eternal City and every time I do, she introduces me to new architectural masterpieces to marvel at, new tales about the Roman Empire and new quaint pizzerias hidden on Trastevere’s cobblestone streets where passionate waiters jokingly tell me off for asking them if they can serve my aubergine parmigiana without the cheese; “Why would you ask for that, bella? It’s an offence to Italian cheese!” Rome is one of those places that are so full of history that you’d wish you had all the time in the world to wander around and get lost in its charming alleyways and piazzas where stunningly carved sculptures and grandiose fountains can be found in every nook and cranny.
And just like Rome itself, every corner in Rome Cavalieri will surprise you with something new to wonder at. With a truly impressive collection of period furniture and original artworks, paired with the jaw-dropping views that its outstanding location high above the city provides, Rome Cavalieri manages to perfectly capture the essence of Rome.
Situated in a 15-acre private Mediterranean park in a quiet residential area, Rome Cavalieri feels like an oasis of greenery and quietness to return to after a day of exploring Rome’s crowded tourist attractions. The hotel offers 345 spacious rooms with private balconies and 25 sumptuous suites – individually decorated to showcase original art pieces and antique furniture. For a true slice of la dolce vita, book the Penthouse or the Planetarium Suite, both offering expansive terraces, hot tubs and sensational views of St Peter’s Basilica and even the Colosseum in the distance. Staying in one of the suites or Imperial Rooms will grant you access to the super exclusive Imperial Club where you can enjoy complimentary refreshments throughout the day, as well as breakfast, afternoon tea and aperitivo before dinner.
When you first walk into the hotel, you may find yourself wondering whether you’ve entered a hotel or an art gallery. Its highly prized private collection of period furniture pieces, original paintings, tapestries, statues and rare 18th-century antiques (over 10,000 pieces in total) includes a 17th century Giovanni Battista Tiepolo triptych – considered to be a national treasure, as well as a spectacular Zais piece hanging over the concierge desk. But the art tour doesn't end as soon as you leave the lobby – every inch of the property is adorned with magnificent artworks – from authentic Nureyev costumes on display outside the Imperial Club through to original Andy Warhol paintings and sofas designed by Karl Lagerfeld in the Penthouse Suite.
Italians know a thing or two about good food and Rome Cavalieri is no exception. With its signature La Pergola Restaurant & Bar, managed by widely celebrated Chef Heinz Beck, the hotel is the only hotel in Italy that offers its guests three-Michelin-starred cuisine. It is also home to Uliveto Restaurant, serving Meditarenan and international classics with a twist, Tiepolo Lounge and Terrace where you can enjoy drinks and light lunches surrounded by Tiepolo's art, a pool bar and the Grand Spa Café, as well as the seasonal alfresco Chalet Grill where in the summer, you can watch live sport events on large TVs.
If you can squeeze in some time in between exploring Rome and enjoying the outstanding food in Rome Cavalieri, head to the hotel’s spa where you can find an indoor pool, three outdoor swimming pools, two saunas, a whirlpool and an amethyst Turkish bath. For those who like to work up a sweat before starting their day, Rome Cavalieri’s Spa also offers a fully-equipped state-of-the-art gym; but if you’d rather pamper yourself, book a treatment in one of the 10 treatment rooms (the list is truly impressive!) - a full-body massage will be well needed after strolling the streets of Rome all day.
If you’re travelling to Rome for work, Rome Cavalieri also offers impressive meeting and conference facilities, with 8,700m2 of meeting and conference space, a grand ballroom with a capacity of 2,100 people, 28 meeting rooms and a separate congress centre entrance.
With an unmatched abundance of sights to explore, Rome is undoubtedly one of the most dazzling and remarkable cities not only in Europe but in the world. Yet, once you enter Rome Cavalieri and you get a taste of everything it has to offer, leaving the grounds of the hotel will seem like a nearly impossible task. My advice: stay for as long as you can!
For more information and to book your stay, please go to https://romecavalieri.com/
Algarve, Portugal
From vast stretches of sand to coves backed by cliffs, the Algarve is home to some of Europe’s most breathtakingly beautiful beaches. And as scenic as the beaches are, the region offers so much more! Historic castle towns, elegant villages, glitzy beach bars and freshly caught seafood have been attracting over four million visitors every year – and once there, you’ll see why.
How to get there
Faro International Airport is located four kilometres from Faro – the capital of the Algarve, with a number of European airlines offering direct flights to and from the Algarve.
Where to stay
For exquisite views of Carvoeiro Beach and its soaring cliffs, stay at Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort.
Croatia
Croatia has been a very trendy summer destination in the past few years and we can assure you that the ex-Yugoslavian country is worth the hype. From its trendy islands Hvar and Korcula, through to the historic towns of Split and Dubrovnik, all paired with picturesque beaches and the country’s eight national parks, Croatia is wildly diverse and offers something for everyone.
How to get there
Depending on the way you plan your holiday in Croatia, you can fly to Dubrovnik, Split, Pula or the capital city of Zagreb. Airlines flying to Croatia from major European cities include British Airways, Croatia Airways and EasyJet.
Where to stay
For outstanding views of Dubrovnik old town, stay at Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik. Riva Hvar Yacht Harbour Hotel benefits from an ideal location in the heart of Hvar and a waterfront terrace overlooking the Adriatic Sea, while Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Split is a perfect base to explore Split and its surrounding Dalmatian islands.
Zakynthos, Greece
While the starriest Greek islands Mykonos and Santorini grapple with over-tourism, more and more holidaymakers are heading to the quieter, but equally stunning island of Zakynthos. With its rugged cliffs, sea caves, tiny cloves and clear azure water paired with exquisite Greek tavernas and an abundance of water sports to try, the island offers much more than the crazy nightlife it’s famed for.
How to get there
Flights to Zakynthos International Airport are available from most European major cities. Over 30 airlines operate flights to the island during the tourist season.
Where to stay
The Lesante Luxury Hotel & Spa or Olea All Suite Hotel.
Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia’s ultra-clear water is reason enough to visit the Mediterranean island. However, this doesn’t mean that the emerald water is the only thing that draws holidaymakers to the slice of paradise that Sardinia is. With its nearly 2,000km of coastline, white-sand beaches and fresh Italian food, Sardinia will teach you all about la dolce vita.
How to get there
International airlines operate year-round flights from cities across Europe to Sardinia’s three main airports Cagliari Elmas Airport, Aeroporto di Olbia Costa Smeralda and Alghero Airport.
Where to stay
Resort Valle dell’Erica Thalasso & Spa near Santa Teresa promises direct access to the sea and 5-star luxury.
Andermatt, Switzerland
And don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about all the mountain lovers out there. The Swiss Alps are an obvious and logical option for both winter and summer holidays, and the charming village of Andermatt (1444m) offers everything you could possibly desire from your next Alpine adventure.
How to get there
Andermatt’s nearest international airports are Zurich, Milan and Geneva. They all have easy rail links to Andermatt, and even quicker road links using airport shuttles or private hire transfers.
Where to stay
For spectacular 5-star opulence, stay at The Chedi Andermatt – an exquisite deluxe hotel offering local hospitality paired with Asian touches.
Copenhagen was just ranked 9th in this year’s ‘Most liveable cities in the world’ survey by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). And this doesn’t come as a surprise to anyone! Denmark’s capital is all about enjoying the good life – it regularly tops international happiness surveys and is known as ‘the happiest city in the world’. In addition to being one of the globe’s greenest, cleanest and most sustainable capitals, Copenhagen boasts world-class urban architecture sitting alongside old historic buildings and palaces, picturesque harbours and hip, Scandi-chic cafés and restaurants. With an abundance of things to do and see, the Danish capital is the ideal place for your next city break – promising to exceed your expectations and to teach you how to ‘hygge’.
Where to stay
For a colourful and characterful, yet cosy hotel, stay at the ideally located Absalon Hotel in the upcoming Vesterbro district. Founded in 1938 and still run by the same family, the hotel is only a five-minute walk from Copenhagen’s Central Station and the city’s iconic Tivoli Gardens. Housed in a stunning 19th-century building, it offers 161 modern rooms designed by London-based designer Trisha Guild and featuring lots of colour, exquisite marble bathrooms and organic Karmameju toiletries.
The salon at Absalon Hotel is the perfect room for curling up on one of the deep armchairs dotted around the bright room with a glass of wine. During the day, you’ll find people tapping away on MacBooks or reading a book in the corner while sipping on a latte and as the evening rolls and the colourful open space takes on an all-together different glow, cheerful groups of friends, families and couples flock to the bar for a cocktail after a day of exploring the streets of Copenhagen.
Continental breakfast can be enjoyed in an expansive room just a few steps away from the bar. Expect all of the continental buffet staples with the thoughtful addition of some Danish classics, including freshly baked pastries, local cheese and herring.
Whether you're visiting Copenhagen for business or pleasure, Absalon Hotel’s convenient location, modern décor and truly impeccable service make it a wonderful place to rest your head at night and wake up to in the morning.
For more information, please go to https://www.absalon-hotel.dk/en/
Where to eat
With its Michelin-starred restaurants and clever Nordic cuisine, Copenhagen is known as a true culinary powerhouse. Mielcke & Hurtigkarl’s experimental and exciting menu however, instantly made it our favourite find!
Set in the beautiful Royal Horticultural Gardens, the restaurant promises an experience like no other. Designed to ‘make your taste buds dance’, the chef’s secret tasting menu is arguably the finest and most daring food you’ll find in Copenhagen. From appetisers such as yeast chips and tiny egg-white, meringue-like baguettes filled with mozzarella, tomato and basil, through to the last bite of delicate pistachio cake served on a wooden board accompanied by a printed out poem by Michael Faudet, the dining experience at Mielcke & Hurtigkarl is a gastronomic adventure that resembles a form of art.
With its magnificent high ceilings, white walls and a solitary tree in the centre of the room, the restaurant’s plant-inspired décor is nearly as extraordinary as the food itself. In summer, tables spill out onto a patio terrace in the garden and the atmosphere is so magically laid back that you’d be happy to linger over the extensive number of courses (and the sublime wines paired superbly to complement each dish).
For more information, please go to http://www.mhcph.com/
To make a reservation, please call +45 3834 8436 or email booking@mhcph.com
