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Tregothnan: British Tea Tours

The largest tea plantation in Europe offers tours to view its premises in a land steeped in 700 years of history.

A host will take you for a walk around the gardens that will span a two-mile radius in Coombe, Kea and Halwyn in Cornwall.

The trip that lasts around three hours is fragrant with tea and it teaches the partakers how to create the perfect blend, whilst offering its visitors a chance to pick the tea and take some home for the perfect pot.

This, Britain’s first and only tea garden, offers a history of Britain’s tea history and gives an insight into how this production is married to a microclimate.

Additional to the offering is a tea masterclass which includes a Tregothnan cream tea, a masterclass certificate and a chance to purchase tea from the sanctuary gift shop.

Another resident of the premises is a colony of bees essential for the protection of plants. This Cornish establishment offers a class in bee keeping including how to find the Queen, what to feed the bees and how to identify diseases.

Tea tasting is a smaller experience, running for around thirty minutes and is open Monday to Friday for a unique guide into finding the perfect blend.

For those in the mood for a takeaway of the experience, a takeaway English cream tea is available for those enthusiasts.

For more information on how to book a Tregothnan experience please visit: Tea Centre Experiences – Tregothnan

David Bowie: The V&A East Storehouse

A David Bowie Centre will be at the core of a new move by the V&A that will be in East London.

The archive of over 90,000 items donated by the David Bowie Estate, the Blavatnik Family Foundation and Warner Music Group will highlight these memorable features for the first time.

Stage costumes including Ziggy Stardust ensembles, lyrics from Fame and Heroes will be among the cream of this exhibition.

Divided into three separate spaces, the collection will showcase unreleased projects alongside his significant influence on Lana del Rey to Issey Miyake. This is just a taste of what to expect in this crafted curation opening on 13th September 2025.

This centre will be part of a wider collection served by the V&A Storehouse that is to open its doors to the public on 31st May 2025.

A collection of influential memorable ensembles on view includes Elton John’s costumes, the Glastonbury Festival Archive, vintage football shirts, iphone collectives and couture from Dior to Schiaparelli.

This new concept allows individuals to “order an object” on some of its pieces which will allow partakers to view at a time convenient to their schedule seven days per week.

There will additionally be a go behind the scenes feature which will give access to view the conservation projects at the V&A which will show museum work including the packaging of artifacts to go on loan.

Designed by architects Diller, Scofidio + Renfro, this exhibition platform is part of East Bank, a cultural space in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

For further information on the V&A East Storehouse visit: V&A East (vam.ac.uk)

Double Chicken Please

The Front Room of this New York design hub transcends as a perfect place to reimagine the art of a unique dining experience.

Reopening its doors the classic bar has become “Free Range” and it dares to tell a story of narrative with each of its guests quests.

In the place “Where chickens fly and dreams range free” the staff have made this a pleasurable tale of an imaginative range of cocktails and gastronomic delights.

A chicken figure designed by Turkie Tsai is crafted on the wall and this mounted sculpture takes a key place in the “Free Range” concept.

This bar is about “to have the freedom to explore, to create, to have fun and to be able to experiment without limitations” says Co-founder, Faye Chen.

Cocktails have names of fun and range from “What’s Up Doc” a concoction of Patron Silver Tequila, Amaro Santoni, mastiha, carrot, orange and hazelnut yoghurt to more “Space Dog” a pleasant mix of Diplomatico Rum, banana, pineapple, grapefruit, coffee, and taro clarified milk.

Oysters, lobster, pork belly, beetroot, tofu with kimchi, stuffed chicken wings, accompany a dessert of black sugar caramel.

This concept is an invitation to partake in a galore of fun design mixed with a blend of good dining.

For more information on Double Chicken Please visit: Double Chicken Please

Ananda: The Himalayas

Renowned for its tranquillity, this escape is known as one of the world’s most exclusive retreats for Yoga, Meditation, Vedanta and Ayurveda.

Sitting inside the Maharaja’s palace grounds, this place is effortless in its giving to a wellbeing culture.

Surrounded by mountains and a stones throw away from the holy town of Rishikesh, there is an abundant number of restful facilities including an award winning spa where over eighty treatments are available.

Healing and restful, there is a place for every type of pleasureful technique available with a house full of experts representing this mantra. Each wellbeing programme is personalised.

In 2024, a Fertility Enhancement Programme has been announced at the resort, to help those embarking on delivering a natural form of conception. Detoxing and therapies are introduced for a client with a purist approach to procreation.

This retreat offers a simplified way of being in control of mindful pleasures that elicit peace in the soul.

For further information on Ananda please visit: Luxury Wellness Retreats in India | Ananda Spa Packages…

The Sea: Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

From the history of time the sea has become an enigmatic object that has seen a record of thought-provoking facts about its being.

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is a Danish Museum that holds an exhibition of this liquid landscape from 11th October 2024 to 27th April 2025.

In the walls of this show the sea is encapsulated into different themes from the mythological seas to exploration and its relations between art and science.

Artworks from where the sky and the sea stand hand in hand romanticise the imagery of the sea and artists including Caspar David Friedrich, Peder Balke and August Strindberg are exhibited into this truly maritime drama of works.

Sea Gods have been encapsulated through the paintings in the Renaissance and Baroque periods and this exhibition draws on cultural recordings of this landscape with art from lands including Japan, with woodcuts and fantasy sagas.

The museum recounts: “The underwater life had to be curiously conquered, mapped and classified, and here art played a central role.”

This new exhibition relates to all mythologies of sea and water, and it encapsulates a story of expression throughout the Globe.

For further information and tickets visit: louisiana.dk

Slammers: Monaco

Nestled on a street in the heart of Monaco there lies a bar with a royal ambience.

At the Monaco Yacht Show 2024 there was a seeking for the ideal place to enjoy the night life of the Principality that held this prestigious event.

Stumbling across this location, it was only after meeting Terry the bar owner that it struck that this was not just any drinking hole.

This is the place where Princess Charlene personally worked behind the bar for two hours, buying drinks for the punters during the Rugby World Cup.

On the walls of Slammers there is the usual Monegasque portrait of Princess Charlene and Prince Albert, but not the one that any other business in the neighbourhood would hold. This one was of Princess Charlene and Prince Albert wearing red Slammers T-Shirts with the wording “Make Slammers Great Again”.

Terry has supported the Princess for years by working with her charities and he has their logos on the top of the bar wall.

A special place respected by the Monegasque Monarchy and somewhere packed full of fun and a presence of up style contributors to the story of Slammers.

To find out how to get to the bar visit Slammers’ website at slammers-bar.com

Casa Fuzetta

An exceptional private home in the heart of the authentic fishing town of Olhão, in the unspoilt eastern Algarve.

The house is available to rent on an exclusive basis throughout the year for retreats, events, holidays and photo shoots. (The Algarve is one of the few areas in Europe to enjoy 300 days of sunshine per year!)

It is ideal for large families, friends and groups seeking a high-end, yet relaxed, private and intimate location for time together, special occasions and/or retreats. (with children aged 8 years or more)

The house sleeps up to 22 in style and comfort, and is located within a fifteen minute drive of Faro airport, which itself is less than 3 hours away from London and other major European cities.

Casa Fuzetta has a dedicated local house team available to offer support during your stay, and the owner, Tara, offers experienced advice to retreat leaders and hosts, including extensive local knowledge and contacts, to ensure every guest enjoys “everyday magic”.

CNTraveller and Travel & Leisure (US) have both included Casa Fuzetta in their shortlists of the best yoga retreats in the world.

RETREATS

We are delighted to welcome wonderful teachers and leaders to host retreats at Casa Fuzetta throughout the year. In 2024, we will welcome more than 30 different retreats, and a further 25 have been confirmed so far for 2025, including a number of coaching retreats, which is an exciting new development for us.

Most in 2025 still have availability and are open to all levels of experience. Here is a quick link to the pages on our website where you can find more details. Please remember bookings are made direct with the relevant retreat leader.

2025 Availability remains for single room bookings for our February Workation time between 30 January- 19 February 2025 (for a minimum of 7 nights).

A wonderful opportunity to escape the cold and grey of Northern Europe (or North America) and to join a community of inspiring and creative souls at Casa Fuzetta.

Full details are available: for group bookings, 2025 is close to sold out. Our last remaining windows of availability are: 11-16 June 11-16 July 27 November to 17 December and Christmas / New Year 2025

Please email Tara at casafuzetta@gmail.com if you would like to explore hosting a retreat, a special celebration or a group of friends & family with us.

Contact: casafuzetta@gmail.com

Website: https://www.casafuzetta.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casafuzetta/

Experience the Magic of Winter at Broughton Hall: a National Geographic 2024 Cool List Destination

Broughton Sanctuary, recognised as one of the top 30 destinations to visit in the world by National Geographic’s Cool List 2024, offers an unparalleled winter escape in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

As the crisp winter air settles over the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales, Broughton Sanctuary transforms into a winter wonderland like no other. Whether you are gathering with loved ones, friends, or colleagues, this exclusive destination provides the perfect festive retreat, blending nature and wellbeing in one of the UK’s most breath-taking landscapes.

A World-Class Destination

Broughton Hall, a 16th-century stately home situated within a stunning 3,000-acre estate, has been celebrated by National Geographic as one of the world’s coolest places to visit in 2024. Its timeless beauty, rich history, and luxurious modern amenities make it the ultimate winter getaway for those seeking a blend of festive cheer and natural splendour.

A Unique Festive Experience

Winter at Broughton Hall is designed to elevate seasonal celebrations with a carefully curated blend of tradition, relaxation, and indulgence. Guests can expect:

  • Fireside gatherings in the Fire Temple
  • Wild wellbeing experiences including open-water swimming, ice barrel immersions, and woodland saunas
  • A stay in one of the estate’s 17 luxurious rooms
  • Rejuvenating treatments at the Avalon Wellbeing Centre

Exclusive Winter Packages

Broughton Hall offers bespoke 2- and 3-night winter packages for groups, featuring activities such as Avalon therapies, wild swimming, and fine dining.

Prices start at £22,450 + VAT for a 2-night stay in 17 bedrooms for up to 32 guests.

Book Your Magical Winter Getaway

Make this winter one to remember by booking a stay at Broughton Hall, one of the world’s most enchanting and exclusive holiday destinations.

For more information or to make a booking, visit the website Broughton Sanctuary.

Esencia: In Sips

A new private drinking space has been acquired within the world’s best bar voted in 2023.

This bar in a bar concept has been curated by none other than the masterminds behind this tasting experience.

Simone Caporale and Marc Alvarez of the highly valued Barcelona venue have launched a unique model.

The essence of Esencia is encapsulated behind the main space of Sips and they share nothing with the present drinkery of Sips, except a front door.

Simone made his mark in the world of bespoke creation as he worked in The Langham, London, the world’s best bar voted four years in a row.

Marc, likewise an industry heavyweight, has reaped his experience since the age of fifteen and once managed the programme of drinks in the Barri Group’s six restaurants and bars.

Now both bartenders create their excellence in a mantra only fit to be called the best European bar on the continent.

The pair opened Sips in 2021 with a vision of forming a space that evolves with an immense measure of craftsmanship within its interior.

Esencia leads this pattern of creating a palate of exploration in a tasting menu for the connoisseur of cocktails.

The Italian and Spanish combo of elite bartenders deliver guests associated drinks in a showcase of raw materials reflecting on a menu of classics.

Sips is located in L’antiga Esquerra de L’eixample district at the heart of Barcelona. Online bookings only at Esencia – Sips Barcelona

Crater’s Edge: Tanzania

With the spirit of Africa, this wilderness collection camp is set amongst a backdrop of nature and sports a collection of lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos.

Located on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater, it is the footpath to the unmatchable beauty of the region.

The Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania is the earth’s largest inactive volcanic caldera. Dating back to two to three million years ago, this vast countryside spans approximately 100 square miles and is around 2,000 feet deep.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has become an archaeological site with projects such as Olduvai Gorge, which researches early human evolution.

Fifteen luxury tents provide the perfect setting for a luxurious location break with one two-tent joining to make it a perfect location for a family to explore.

Each room comes with a Dyson hairdryer, a Celestron telescope and Lululemon yoga mat.

More properties are in the pipeline, with two opening in the Serengeti in 2025. Tarangire and Zanzibar opening after that.

For further information visit: Home – Wilderness Collection (thewildernesscollection.com)

Louisiana Literature 2024

The 13th edition of the literature festival begins in Denmark with over 60 authors contributing to this milestone.

Held from 22nd to 25th August this unique event holds readings, interviews, concerts and performances with Danish and International writers, including one from Palestine.

Names which include Mircea Cãrtãrescu, Adania Shibli, Rachel Cusk, Colm Tóibín, Mohsin Hamid, Kim de l’Horizon and more are featured in this catalogue of talent.

Novels by the names of A small detail, Nostalgia, Parade and Brooklyn come into recognition with this event, and some of those attending have been nominated for the Nobel Prize.

The list of those attending is vast and this celebration of creativity is an awakening to a key event that happens in Denmark each year.

This is not just a combination of adult writers but there is something for the children to take away. Louisiana confirms that young goers can hear about the frog who was a mathematical genius, the super-pee firefighter with the magic fire extinguisher pee – and one lie that probably should never have been told.

Music will appear over these days and there are sounds from the Concert Hall showcasing a variety of talent.

Follow the news from Louisiana Literature on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter.

Over 400 author interviews, recorded at the festival, are freely available at Louisiana Channel

Tickets can be found if you visit this link: Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

Hoar Cross Hall Spa Hotel

This Staffordshire Spa retreat is a haven for pamper days, weekend trips and staycations.

From the launch on 12th July there will be a new spa terrace at Hoar Cross Hall, and will include a three-pool deck, a sauna, a relaxation room and a lounge bar.

The Spa is one of the largest in Europe and the new additions join a Nordic heat and ice suite, hydrotherapy pool, saltwater pool, aqua massage, detox centre, snooze room, sanctum and relax zone, among many of its amenities.

The Spa Terrace includes three heated large pools fitted with massage jets and relaxing benches which sit beside cold tubs made of aged whiskey barrels, set at three degrees as a perfect way to uplift the relaxation.

A neighbouring stone heated sauna sits across from the pools and next to this is a relaxation room which is fitted with eight adjustable beds, dimmed lighting and sheer curtains.

Finally, the new lounge is a comfortable resting place for Spa guests, with a 300-year-old olive tree, suspended fireplace, and cosy blankets and cushions for snuggling.

Hoar Cross Hall’s best-selling Serenity Package starts from £259 per person, including three meals a day, a 60-minute spa treatment from the Serenity Collection, full Spa access on the second day, and an overnight stay in a room or suite. For more information or to book, please visit https://baronseden.com/hoar-cross-hall.