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There’s always been a romanticism connected with the Dordogne Périgord region. There are countless châteaus steeped in history. You will find a famous UNESCO world heritage site. There is a garden that could be a new wonder of the world and a luxury hotel that would make King Louis XIV proud. Here, we examine why a fairytale journey to the region is at the top of most Francophiles’ wish lists. In particular, the region of Périgord noir, which is the most visited region in the Dordogne.

Charming châteaus

Are there exactly 1001 castles in the Dordogne Valley? I would guess more, but the advertising genius who came up with that slogan has sprinkled their stardust on the region. Those with a penchant for the paranormal should visit Château de Puymartin. It is widely known as the castle of the White Lady and has belonged to the same family for over 500 years. The neo-gothic style heightens the atmospheric haunted stories. The most famous is the story of the adulterous Thérèse de Saint-Clar in the 16th century, who was imprisoned in the northern tower until her death.

Another must-visit castle is Château des Milandes. Exuding feminine charm in abundance, it was the former home of renowned entertainer and civil rights activist, Joséphine Baker. She was widely credited by Angelina Jolie as an inspiration for “a model for the multiracial, multinational family”. Her art-deco bathrooms are dripping with decadence from black Murano glass tiles to real gold embellishments; her iconic costumes and her life story are on full display; whilst the stunning French garden with geometric topiary hedges and flower borders is a photographer’s paradise. The Ridley Scott 2021 film ‘The Last Duel’ was filmed at Château de Beynac. It was built in the 12th century and is one of the best preserved in France.

Prehistoric cave of Lascaux IV

The history of the region stretches back to the Palaeolithic period with the discovery of the remarkable Lascaux cave paintings. The animals depicted are of such exquisite quality, scope and sophistication, it was no surprise the site was given UNESCO World Heritage Sites status back in 1979. The original Lascaux cave was sealed off to the public in 1963 as the carbon dioxide and humidity generated by visitors were damaging the paintings. In a remarkable feat of ingenuity, they’ve recreated a complete replica of the prehistoric cave which you can visit on-site. It may be a facsimile, but it is an authentic dark and damp experience akin to the actual cave. They’ve also curated a travelling exhibition: The Cave Art of Lascaux: a Virtual Reality Experience, which will tour Bristol in the summer of 2023.

Photo courtesy of Dan Courtice

Marqueyssac gardens

Named by the BBC as one of the six extraordinary gardens in the world you must visit, the overhanging gardens of Marqueyssac are a sight to behold. With 150,000 hand-trimmed boxwoods in the shape of lollipops and balls, this is a botanical maze that will delight adults and children alike. The garden is perched 130 metres above the Dordogne River with breathtaking views of the idyllic countryside. There are 15 hectares of gardens and parkland with peacocks strutting alongside the 6 km of paths, so it’s the ideal place for picnic adventures or a romantic stroll. They frequently have temporary art exhibitions as well as offering more adventurous activities such as La Via Ferrata cliff climbing.

Domaine de Rochebois

After visiting all the fabulous châteaus, you will probably want to live the life of a marquis yourself. In that case, the only place to consider for your accommodation is Domaine de Rochebois. It is the only five-star hotel within a 200km radius. It is a family business run by the young entrepreneurs of the Pruneyrac family. They’ve brought their years of experience in the hospitality and tourism industry to deliver a refined experience fit for a marquis. The location might be set amongst quaint cottages and farmland, but it’s only a short, 15-minute drive to the medieval town of Sarlat. It has an impressive Benedictine abbey and is a great place to pick up gastronomic delights such as foie gras, black truffles, and duck confits.

There are 40 rooms and suites at the hotel decorated in green, purple, black and white, representing the colours of the Périgord. Throughout the hotel, you’ll see outstanding metal artwork from renowned sculptor Pierre Treilhes. He’ll use upcycled metal to create iconic pieces like the Gallic rooster. The hotel has a NUXE spa with a sensory pool for those seeking relaxation, and a 6-hole golf course for those seeking countryside greenery.

They take pride in offering world-class food and beverage options. Their gastronomic restaurant, Le M is led by executive chef Jean-Philippe Vecco, who trained under legendary Pierre Gagnaire and Alain Ducasse. His tasting menu starts with a butter tray station where you can use various accoutrements to create your own bespoke offering for your palate. It is all about supporting local producers and using local produce. Expect dishes like shredded Périgord suckling pig and Périgord pigeon cooked in 3-ways. An award-winning bartender will serve you a classy concoction at their Le Josephine bar, named after Josephine Baker. The cocktail to try is unsurprisingly Josephine’s favourite, which consists of Remy Landier Cognac, Champagne, Sucre de Canne, bitters, and huile d’orange. All-day dining is at Brasserie Le Wedge where they offer comforting classics like chicken ballotine with creamy risotto.

What Domaine de Rochebois does very well is to connect you with the outdoor experiences of Périgord noir. They can arrange a truffle hunting experience at Le Domaine de Vielcroze. They can arrange a hot-air sunset balloon ride. They can arrange for tours to one of the most beautiful villages in France, La Roque Gageac along with a kayaking experience. You can also visit the troglodyte caves of La Roque Saint-Christophe. The list of options is endless and Domaine de Rochebois makes a great base for you to discover the region.

https://en.sarlat-tourisme.com/

Nestled on the outskirts of the nucleus that is Cambridge city center in an unassuming residential area, a casual ten minute stroll through Jesus Green until you reach the hubbub of the university city, sits The Fellows House. An aparthotel that promises a home away from home for both short stay city breakers and long haul business trippers. With an array of on site facilities such as 24/7 gym, pool complete with sauna and steam room, coffee shop, restaurant and a luxe bar area, it is easy to see why.

With four categories of room on offer, ranging from standard and studio through to apartments and duplexes there is something to suit all budgets and purpose of travel. Nearly all the rooms are equipped with kitchenettes including hob, combi oven and fridge plus coffee machines, kettles and toasters – perfect for an in room brekkie in your complimentary fluffy robe and slippers. Most rooms also include sofa beds, large flat screen TVs in both bedroom and living space – no TV control arguments during any family stays – rainfall showers and the pièce de résistance, huge, sumptuous king size beds with premium linen, waiting to envelope its inhabitant(s) for a night of uninterrupted slumber. Well thought out additions such as cook books, books on the nightstands and White Company toiletries really do turn these hotel rooms into an extension of your home.

On site coffee shop, Sage is a great addition that sits at the front of the hotel and is perfect for a spot of remote working or a quick caffeine hit before ambling into the city. The barista’s know their stuff and the onsite patisserie chef ensures counter tops are laden with enticing pastries and cakes with a solid vegan offering. I like to do my due diligence on these sorts of things and can confirm I tried every cake available, all sublime, all worth the extra notch on the belt.

The hotel’s restaurant – Folio Bar & Kitchen offers all day dining, including continental and hot breakfast for guests on the B&B option. You can definitely feel that the American military audience are being catered to with towers of fluffy pancakes and streaky bacon being replenished every five minutes – no complaints from me, I just wish there had been a jug of maple syrup to drown it all in.

The restaurant’s aesthetic is impressive – flooded in natural light from both the huge overhead skylight and glass doors that open out onto the courtyard, it’s a great setting to plan your day of exploring. Bold black and white floor tiles are complimented perfectly by muted sage green booth seating and dark wood furniture. Exposed brickwork and a plethora of plants bring the outside in and a fiery open kitchen with chefs bustling about their business creates the perfect backdrop. At night, the vibe changes, the lighting is low, the flames of the open kitchen are bright and what by day felt like an oasis turns into a cosy, decadent atmosphere – encouraging it’s dwellers to sink into the comfy seating, order another glass of wine and while away the evening.

Chef Kiran Selvarajan boasts to be doing very exciting things with plant based cooking, emphasising a reduction on food waste, using local ingredients and putting contemporary twists on British classics whilst keeping things healthy and nutritious. Dishes such as tofu prawn cocktail, bean risotto and cottage cheese steak pepper the menu. And so, with all these innovative plant based offerings up for grabs, what did I order? Scallops and a steak. You see dear reader, I went with good intentions. I had an assignment to fulfill and I had every ambition of doing so but it seems this carnivore turns primal at the sight of an open grill and all will power flies out the window.

The scallops were fantastic – perfectly seared, sweet and plump, adorning a heady lobster bisque and crowned with crispy sage, this was the standout dish for me. The steak was ok – perhaps the universe laughing at me for ordering the meatiest option available – it was cooked well but lacking that char I was hoping for. A side of wilted baby gem with tahini and dukkah, a welcome accompaniment. Given my menu choices I can’t really comment on the exciting vegan offerings chef is putting forward but what I can tell you about is the chorus of ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ from the fellow journalists who actually stuck to the brief, an audible gasp was heard when the person next to me took her first bite of marinated tofu steak and so, I am planning my return as we speak and this time I promise to stay away from the cow… maybe.

Adjoining the Folio Kitchen is the bar, a gorgeously moody space that gives gentlemen club’s vibes but one where all are welcome. Book shelves are lined with carefully curated works from Cambridge Fellows and scholars alike, artwork of the great academics looking down on guests as they sip perfectly mixed cocktails – lethal but perfect – and nods to the discovery of DNA in the paneled walling. These design features that make the hotel so unique and truly deliver its USP, marry perfectly with atmospheric lighting, low level furniture and a  pool table taking center stage. The bar and cocktail menu proving another highlight  – not because I could be considered a lush but more because the atmosphere was so welcoming and the menu so well designed. Each cocktail nodding to a fellow, exquisite detail such as hand painted bees on top of creamy foam and a martini as dirty as you like.Given the long stayers within the hotel there is a community here and being in the bar felt similar to university halls but a very, grown up classy version. The concierge team greeting people by name, the pool sharks winding down after a day researching goodness knows what, bar tenders remembering drinks of choice – I’m into it.

The onsite leisure facilities are simple yet effective – a long pool perfect for morning lengths that also doubles up as relaxation pool, a submerged shelf sitting just below the surface lined with jets ready to bubble, flanked by loungers for those who are more of the sitting than moving camp, a steam room and sauna a mere waddle away and should be that way inclined a compact yet functional gym space complete with Peloton bike and squat rack.

With such a plethora of facilities on site plus specially curated activities for both hotel residents and the local community alike such as ‘Cork and Canvas’ art classes and wine tastings, you would be forgiven if you couldn’t pull yourself away from The Fellow’s House but pull yourself away you must – be it by amble or by bike (complimentary from the hotel), Cambridge is itching to be explored. Be it a walking tour to learn the history of the city, a gentle punt on the River Cam complete with picnic and prosecco or shopping the day away with some of the highstreets best plus a great independent scene plus an exceptional foodie landscape, this city really does have something for everyone. The concierge team at Fellow’s House will go above and beyond to ensure you see the best of the city, they will even laden you up with aforementioned picnic and help you book a punt or a tour. And if that isn’t enough, Visit Cambridge are helping drive traffic to local businesses within the city with their ‘Love Cambridge’ card, a pre loaded gift card that can be used in an abundance of shops – the perfect gift if you have friends or family visiting and want to ensure they can have a drink or dinner on you.

And if that’s not enough to entice you, you can check out the best Cambridge eateries here.

To find out more about The Fellow’s House, you can visit there website here.

Introducing you to the Greyhound on the Test in the Test Valley, Hampshire

When it comes to a rustic retreat, the Greyhound on the Test makes for a superb staycay sojourn. This gastropub hotel with boutique accommodation is quaint, stylish and is located in a
quintessential English village jam-packed with rural charm, plus it’s completely dog-friendly too meaning your pups can enjoy a fun weekend away too!

But, the hotel which is in the heart of the Test Valley countryside certainly packs a punch when it comes to the aesthetics, location and of course, the food!

Situated on the village’s attractive high street which has a number of lovely independent shops and cafes, the Greyhound on the Test is located on the River Test and has a picturesque garden that leads down to the river. We visited on Coronation weekend and the entire village was decked out in bunting and Union Jack flags.

The main area of the pub which is over 600 years old has character in abundance with its oak beams, exposed brick walls and sumptuous velvet furnishings. It also has a wood-burning stove, eye-catching fisheye mirrors and a spectacular starburst style clock made from wine bottles.

Our room ‘Left Three’ was nothing short of cosy chic, nestled at the top of the building, it’s adorned with soft soothing hues of Farrow & Ball paint on wood-panelled walls, decorative headboards, lamps, cushions and stylish furniture.

The bathroom is bathroom goals personified and is almost as big as the bedroom area. From the sumptuous Molton Brown toiletries to the large roll top bath, you may find it a tad tricky tearing yourself away from here.

But, we here at House of Coco are nothing but troopers and the prospect of an exciting meal definitely was the motivation of saying a fond farewell to the bliss-inducing bath and heading down the stairs to check out the food in the 2 AA rosette restaurant that offers flavoursome and seasonal dishes.

There were six starters to choose from which included sage and mustard sausage roll, a leek & potato soup, a chalk stream trout & smoked cheddar tartlet and my personal choice – a confit duck terrine with truffle butter, a burnt onion emulsion and rhubarb. The starter was expertly cooked with a real fresh and zingy taste and was beautifully presented.

For the main, we opted for the Hampshire beef sirloin with triple-cooked chips, which was delicious, but the chips were a tad heavy. There was a fantastic selection of dishes to choose from which included treacle-cured lamb, roasted cod, roasted heritage cauliflower and a beautifully-seasoned pea, broad bean and courgette risotto.

The dessert selection was chock-full of English traditional dishes like a raspberry trifle, a Rhubarb and Blood Orange Alaska and a Eton Mess with sable crumb teamed with a bottle of sparkling rose.

When it comes to the hotel’s breakfast, you can choose from a selection of pastries, granola, fruit and yoghurt as well as ordering off the menu which includes a Full English, Test-smoked trout with scrambled eggs and smashed avocado with poached eggs.

Trout is a BIG deal here, it can not only be found on the menu at the Greyhound on the Test, but in other restaurants too.

The Test Valley is a mecca for those who love to fly fish and the proximity of the river to the Greyhound makes it an absolute must-visit for those who want to cast their lines into the pretty river.

The Test Valley region was voted one of the best places to live in 2022 and it’s easy to see why thanks to the soaring hills and landscape of the Test Valley which yield the most scenic views to die for.

It is absolutely beautiful and it’s an ideal place for walking, hiking and cycling. You can also try clay pigeon shooting which sadly wasn’t available at the time of our visit, but there’s a fantastic selection of interesting things to see and do in this stunning area of Hampshire.

Our favourite thing to do in the Test Valley is to pay a visit to the Black Chalk Vineyard and Winery who are doing brilliant things for English wine.

Situated in the heart of the valley by the River Test, you can enjoy both tours and tastings (booking is recommended) where you can learn more about the history of the vineyard and see it in action and learn more about the winemaking process from the cultivation through to the finished product.

Nick, the General Manager helpfully takes you through the wine tasting which you can also pair with either an Afternoon Tea, a selection of cheeses, charcuterie, smoked trout and paté all of which taste absolutely divine with the stunning wines.

There are three wines all of which are an absolute must which includes the Black Chalk Classic, Wild Rose and the lovely Dancer in Pink which is crafted using Pinot Noir, Pinot Précoce and Pinot Gris and tastes of summer strawberries and cherry blossom.

The only thing left to do is to take a bottle of fizz and head back to the sanctuary of ‘Left Three’ to reacquaint ourselves with that impressive bathtub!

Check in: An overnight stay costs from £175 for two sharing a King Room, including breakfast. To book, visit https://thegreyhoundonthetest.co.uk/ or call 01264 810 833.

After spending what seemed like eternity in the cold, rainy polar vortex, I escaped. Once completing my first red-eye to London from Vancouver, I refreshed myself for another long flight ahead. Periodically, on the direct Air Mauritius journey from London, I would consult our map on our exact location. I finally located the small island in the vast, beautiful turquoise Indian Ocean. Mauritius, is approximately 1865 km2 or 470,000 acres and is volcanic in origin, thanks to the now dormant volcano on neighboring Réunion Island.

The morning Mauritian sun was ready to greet us, as we emerged from our plane and conveniently remained throughout our stay. There are only two seasons in Mauritius: Summer (October to April) and Winter (May to September). There is a mild climate all year round with an average temperature of 25ºC, which makes Mauritius the perfect year round destination. Our group had the unique experience of sampling a few Marriott properties on the island. While common denominators included the warm and inviting Mauritian hospitality and direct access to the tepid Indian Ocean; they each had their own unique vibe.

Quiet Luxury

Our adventure started at the JW Marriott Mauritius, which is located in the southwest Rivière Noire District. It lies on the Le Morne Peninsula. The sheltered lagoon, coupled with the large waves, makes Le Morne Peninsula ideal for both beginner and advanced kite surfers from around the globe. Mauritius hosts several international kite surfing competitions each year, such as Kiteival and Kite Jam. Stock photos of Mauritius often showcase Le Morne Brabant – a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is nearby the JW Marriott. 

Fresh from our journey (although not feeling very fresh at the moment), we were whisked away by golf cart to our suites by our butlers. In fact, there are only suites (172 in total) at the JW. From the king-sized bed to the oval bathtub, it would be easy to vegetate in your room. But why stay indoors, when the beach and the Indian Ocean are right outside your door?

Settling into island life was only a time adjustment – never a quality adjustment. The turn down service and service button located at each beach lounge umbrella, made assistance both accessible and attentive. There was a delicate dance between being helpful (A mosquito repellent cream magically appeared on my night stand, after I had a short casual conversation about bug bites) and not feeling overpowering or uncomfortable. The JW Marriott Mauritius staff seemed to know exactly what we needed. Case in point, when we arrived back to our rooms at the end of our first night’s dinner at the elegant South Asian fusion Floating Market restaurant, a warm bath was already drawn with the perfect water temperature.

The next morning, we toured the island on e-bike. It was a fabulous way to see Mauritius, and I welcomed the physical activity after the long journey. Not to mention, biking along a triathlon route in the heat was a humbling experience.

The serenity of the result was all encompassing. It was busy, but I did not feel busy. At the time, it was 80% full, yet it never seemed to be over crowded with people. The most people I saw at any given point was during common meal times.

The morning of our last day at the JW, we had breakfast in one of the largest private villas in the Indian Ocean. The sprawling, Grand Beachfront Villa sleeps up to eight adults and eight children across four luxuriously designed villas (three of which have their own private pool). Spread over an impressive 17,870 sq. ft (1,660 square meters), there is secluded beach and a dedicated 24-hour butler, as well as an array of in-villa facilities such as a bar, games room, fitness center, infinity pool and more. Available by private booking only, it fits those with the most discerning of tastes.

Dazzling Delights

As we entered the lobby of the Le Méridien Ile Maurice, from our day of sightseeing in Chamarel (Seven Coloured Earth Geopark, Chamarel Waterfall, Rivière Noire Gorges), we were transported to a sun-filled palace. Accents of black, cream and gold marble adorn the entryway. It was posh, without the pretension. We were thankful for the refreshing, cool facial towels and a welcome drink that greeted us at the door. 

The $60 million dollar renovation transformed the Le Méridien Ile Maurice to the place where friends and family can gather in the northwest Pamplemousses region. The property boasts 261 newly designed guestrooms and suites, an adults-only Nirvana wing, world-class spa and fitness center, three pools and a choice of four restaurants and three bars.

Before having a wonderful Mauritian meal at the beachfront Zoli Mamzel restaurant, I learned the art of sabrage. Sabrage is opening a champagne bottle with a saber. To our delight, everyone tried their hand at Sabrage throughout our stay, which kept the bubbles flowing. The Zoli Mamzel deck and restaurant was my favorite. Set on the beachfront, it has a wonderful unobstructed view of the sunset.

Not that we needed an excuse to relax, the next day we spent the afternoon indulging in the redesigned Explore Spa. Paul Bishop was at the helm of the renovation and transformed the space into a peaceful oasis with five treatment rooms. Besides the standard massages and facials, the spa offers hot-cold therapy as well. It was invigorating to try Mauritius’ very first and only snow room after sweating it out in the steam and sauna room. A must do for your visit to Le Méridien Ile Maurice.

Tranquil Wellness

We closed out our trip with a night at the Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa. Located in the northwest Pamplemousses region and on 800 meters (10 hectares) of beachfront within the tranquil and protected Turtle Bay Marine Park. With 190 spacious guest rooms and suites, each with its own private balcony or terrace, an adult-only Whisper Zone, a state-of-the-art spa and 24-hour fitness center, two outdoor pools and 5 restaurants and 2 bars. The property is a combination of the best of the two resorts mentioned prior, in one idyllic location.

Like the JW Marriott Mauritius, the Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa’s layout is spread out along the beachfront. Every guest room and suite overlooks a stunning ocean view and either has an outside terrace or balcony. My room was a Deluxe Family room, complete with a Heavenly® king-sized bed with a double Heavenly® day bed tucked in the corner. The massive marble bathroom has a separate shower room, soaker tub, and topped off with White Tea by WestinTM bath amenities.

The property, like the Le Méridien Ile Maurice, has a world-class spa. The Heavenly Spa by WestinTM, has a large focus on wellbeing. The spa offers a Be Well/Ness Sunday package providing guests with a holistic mind and body experience consisting of a private consultation with one of the resort’s wellness experts, a rejuvenating 60-minute massage, access to the Eat Well Buffet, serving fresh and organic dishes. Taking a short break from the sun and maintaining our relaxed mood, we participated in a Mandala art therapy class.

Is it a lengthy journey to Mauritius? Yes. Yet, having visited, I can attest that the charm of the island goes beyond the cliché of a “hidden gem.” The island is not hidden and is well worth the journey. Once you arrive, you will truly experience an island full of magic and marvel, paired with hospitality of the Mauritian people, that wraps guests in the warmth of the Indian Ocean.

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Jasper Park Lodge is a destination that offers guests an unparalleled experience. With its stunning natural beauty, world-class amenities, and rich history, it’s no wonder that this resort has become a beloved destination for travellers from all over the world.

Sleep like royalty

Jasper Park Lodge has had the honour of hosting several members of the royal family over the years.

In 1939, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth visited the resort during their royal tour of Canada. The King and Queen stayed in cabin 64, which is now known as the “Royal Retreat.”

In 2005, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip stayed at the resort. The Queen and Prince enjoyed a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy landscape, took in the stunning views, and dined on the finest cuisine the resort had to offer.

The story of the Queen’s stay has become a part of the lodge’s lore and adds to its unique charm. Guests can even stay in the same cabin where the Queen and Prince Philip stayed, providing a truly regal experience.

The resort has also welcomed other notable figures over the years, including Winston Churchill and Marilyn Monroe.

And yes, you can stay here!

The resort

Upon arrival, guests are greeted with warm hospitality and personalized service. The staff at Jasper Park Lodge are incredibly attentive and go above and beyond to ensure that every guest has a comfortable and memorable stay.

The accommodations at Jasper Park Lodge are spacious and luxurious, with everything you’ll need for your stay. Whether you’re staying in a cabin or a suite, you’ll feel pampered and relaxed in your own private oasis.

The resort offers a variety of activities for guests to enjoy, including golfing, canoeing, and fishing. The property also boasts many hiking trails for guests to explore, taking in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Foodies will delight in the resort’s dining options, with a variety of restaurants serving up delicious cuisine. From fine dining to casual fare, there’s something for everyone’s tastes.

Stargazing on the frozen lake

One of the most unique experiences that Jasper Park Lodge offers is stargazing on the frozen lake. During the winter months, the resort sets up telescopes and provides guided tours for guests to explore the breath-taking night sky with hot chocolate and snacks. The frozen lake creates a perfect backdrop for this magical experience, making it a truly unforgettable moment.

The Whiskey Bar

After a day of outdoor adventures or a cosy evening under the stars, guests can unwind at the Whiskey Bar. With its rustic decor, fireplace, and extensive selection of whiskeys, this bar is the perfect place to relax and indulge. The bar also features a cosy terrace overlooking the lake, where guests can enjoy a nightcap under the stars.

Why stay here

Jasper Park Lodge is a destination that truly has it all, from stargazing on the frozen lake to a cosy nightcap at the Whiskey Bar. Its rich history and royal connection only add to the resort’s allure. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an outdoor adventure, Jasper Park Lodge is the perfect destination to experience the beauty of the Canadian Rockies in style.

Well, Guten tag music fans!

The intriguing city of Berlin has always been synonymous with music and has a rich musical heritage that spans multiple genres. Since the eighties, it has attracted acts like U2, Depeche Mode, Billy Idol and many more British acts inspired by the city’s creativity.

Berlin is a city that breathes music. It is known for its rich musical heritage and is home to some of the best clubs, venues, and record stores in the world.

Are you ready to experience the vibrant and diverse music scene of Berlin? Whether you’re into underground techno clubs or classical concert halls, this music guide to Berlin has got you covered and then some that will help you make the most out of your trip to the German capital.

Here are some must-visit spots for any music lover as explored by our Music Editor Emma Harrison:

Dance the night away in a club!

Berlin’s nightclub scene is world-renowned and it’s easy to see why. Techno and electronic music are huge here and you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing where to trip the light fantastic into the wee hours.

When we say wee hours, we are not joking and most people turn up to a nightclub in Berlin at around 1-2am in the morning. From underground clubs to techno institutions that are world-renowned, the German capital offers an incredibly diverse and vibrant nightlife scene that’s not to be missed.

Make sure you check out the Berghain which has garnered quite the reputation for being a techno institution. It truly sets the standard for all other clubs in the city. Other top-notch clubs to check out include Tresor, Watergate and KitKat, yet another famous techno club, is also worth a visit.

Not really into techno, try YAAM for chilled reggae vibes, Matrix for hip-hop and rap and Havanna Berlin for latin beats.

Stay in a music-themed hotel

The nhow hotel in Berlin’s hip riverside near the  Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain neighbourhoods, is one of the coolest hotels in the entire city. Music is everywhere and if you love to eat, sleep and listen to music 24/7, then then nhow is most definitely for you.

Not only is it achingly-cool when it comes to the decor with pink interiors, oversized gumball machines and oodles of music memorabilia, the hotel also provides guitars, keyboards and even DJ equipment to hire to your room.

The hotel also puts on live music performances from local bands and musicians who take to the hotel’s own dedicated stage to entertain the guests.

Hit up the record stores!

If you’re a music collector, you’ll be pleased to know that Berlin is home to some of the best record stores in the world. Not only can you add some treasured gems to your collection, but it’s also a pretty cool claim to fame to tell your friends that you ‘bought it in Berlin!’.

From Oye Records, a small but mighty shop with two branches throughout the city that specialises in house and disco to the highly unique 33RPM which is a specialist in the fantastic krautrock.

33RPM is located inside the cafe Mukkefukk in the Kreuzberg district and you can combine diving into all that vinyl with some of the best coffee in the neighbourhood at the same time.

Watch some live music

If going clubbing isn’t really your thing, there’s no need to worry as Berlin has lots to offer every kind of music lover. Whether you get mesmerised by classical recitals or prefer to rock out, you are certain to find a music venue that gets your blood going.

From the Philharmonie Berlin which has some of the most incredible acoustics to the eclectic Lido which is a great place to enjoy intimate gigs across a range of genres.

One of the best music venues has to be the Columbiahalle, a former bus depot turned concert venue that hosts a wide range of both local and international acts. From charming indie bands to stars of hip-hop, be sure to check out who’s playing whilst you are in town. We went and saw the enigmatic Father John Misty who put on a first-class performance.

If you are in Berlin over the summer, be sure to check out a music festival which is an absolute must for any music lover.  Berlin is also home to some of the best festivals in Europe. From the world-famous Love Parade to the eclectic Fusion Festival, there’s always something happening in the city.

Make sure that you don’t miss out on the annual Berlin Music Week, a festival that brings together musicians, industry professionals, and music lovers from all over the world.

Take a music tour

Berlin is synonymous with some of the most critically-acclaimed music albums of all time. From Heroes by David Bowie to Achtung Baby by Irish rockers U2, there are a variety of different music tours in Berlin that you can enjoy and immerse yourself into.

The Berlin Music Tour is a must-try music tour for anyone interested in exploring the city’s music scene. The tour takes you on a journey through the city’s music history, from the early 20th century to modern-day music which includes a visit to iconic music landmarks such as Hansa Studios.

You can even take dedicated music tours pertaining to bands and musicians like David Bowie, Depeche Mode, and more.

When it comes to music, Berlin has something to offer every taste and budget. From techno to classical, from underground clubs to concert halls, there’s always something to discover. It truly is a city that has something for every music lover. Get out there and explore – you never know what you might find!

Don’t forget to pick up a Berlin WelcomeCard which can be purchased for between 24 hours and 6 days. You can use it to navigate your way around the city with free transportation whilst using the card. It also gives you up to a 50% discount on several of the top-notch attractions that can be found throughout the city.

Introducing you to the nhow hotel in Berlin

Quirky, hip and very, very pink! With the new Barbie film heading to the big screen this summer, it seems it’s time to ‘think pink!’ and if you are a music lover in need of a funky hotel in the German capital, then look no further than the fabulous nhow hotel.

Whether you are a pop princess, an indie queen, a rock chick or something else entirely, the nhow hotel is the place for you. Deemed as Germany’s first ‘music hotel’, our very own Music Editor headed over to Berlin to check out the facilities whilst reviewing the Father John Misty gig.

The nhow Berlin boasts an eye- catching design that is just made for instagram, a hip restaurant and bar which is just achingly-cool and the opportunity to hire guitars and keyboards from the friendly reception desk.

Situated on the old East side near the river, the hotel is within a few minutes walk of the creative East Side Gallery which has many different pieces of artwork on display. The creative buzz is evident throughout the neighbourhood, with Universal Music and MTV in close proximity. It’s also a short walk to the vibrant neighbourhoods of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain.

The building is striking and has a futuristic feel and was designed by architect Sergei Tchoban with far-reaching views of the river. This eye-catching building pays homage to the area’s industrial harbour past with its warehouse-style structure are sharp angles which are in contrast to the pop-art style interior in vibrant shades of pink.

New York designer Karim Rashid is the vision behind the effervescent interiors which are a glorious riot of rich curved furniture, music memorabilia and more. Everywhere you go there are the faces of musical icons like The Beatles, David Bowie, Prince and more looking back at you.

The reception desk is a hot pink shiny dome where you can hire DJ booths, guitars and keyboards should you want to channel your inner rock star! If sauntering down to reception feels like too much like hard work, then guests are encouraged to call down to the friendly reception team for the impressive 24-hour room service for aforementioned musical equipment! How very Bono!

There’s also two in-house recording studios which you can book in advance situated throughout the hotel where the likes of Skunk Anansie have recorded tracks.  The lounge area is dotted with plush hot pink sofas, a stylish bar which doubles up as a restaurant and this decadent hotel even has its very own stage where you can watch live music every weekend.

Music is everywhere in this hotel, you are even treated to an array of music playlists as you ascend the floors in the lift. There’s a great little gym that comes with a mini spa area equipped with a sauna and a steam bath where you can relax after you rock out.

We had a room on the sixth floor where we had the most incredible views of the city and the River Spree.

If you can tear yourself away from the panoramic views, you might well enjoy taking a luxurious dip in one of the biggest bathtubs that I have ever seen. The bathrooms here are definitely on the larger side and come with rain showers too. There’s also a quirky retro style to the rooms with televisions that rotate 180 degrees to display pieces of art.

Whilst we didn’t eat dinner at the hotel, it has a solid menu and the breakfast is comprehensive and caters for all dietary requirements. Make sure you take your phone to breakfast, as there are many instagram-worthy points of interest, including pink (of course!) blow up guitars, music-themed memorabilia and a super cool pink bathtub filled with yoghurt!

There’s also a waterfront terrace which wasn’t open at the time of our stay, but will make a great brunching spot this summer.

If you are looking for a futuristic hotel with a nostalgic vibe that is music-themed, make sure you check out the nhow hotel in Berlin.

Check in: Double rooms start from £88 per night (not including breakfast)

Choosing the right hotel distribution manager is important for any hotel business. With so many options, it can take time to know which is best for your particular needs. In this article, we’ll look at the factors you should consider when selecting your hotel distribution manager for the channel. We’ll discuss what features and services are important and ways to ensure that you’re making the best choice for your business. With our help, you’ll be able to confidently select a manager for a distribution channel that meets all of your requirements and keeps your guests satisfied.
Hotel businesses need to stay on top of the latest trends in order to remain competitive in today’s market, and having a reliable distribution channel manager is essential to success. Not only do they provide access to more potential customers, but they also help optimize bookings and enhance customer service. A good channel manager will save time and money while making sure that all of your needs are met – from customer acquisition to booking management. But with so many options available, it’s important to carefully weigh all of the factors before choosing the right one for your business. Let’s dive into what aspects you should consider before making a decision!

Factors To Consider When Selecting A Channel Manager

When it comes to selecting a hotel distribution channel manager, there are many factors to consider.

First and foremost, it’s important to evaluate the cost of the solution. How much commission does the channel manager take for each booking? Does it offer discounts or incentives for volume customers?

Additionally, you should assess how easy the platform is to use. Can multiple users access the system with different levels of permission? Is it user-friendly and straightforward enough that staff can quickly learn how to navigate it?

The quality of customer service also matters. What kind of support do they provide when things go wrong? Are they available around the clock or just during certain hours? These questions will help you determine if the vendor is right for your business.

These are some key factors that need to be taken into account before choosing a channel manager for your hotel. It’s essential to take time and conduct thorough research into each option before deciding. You can find an ideal solution for your business needs with careful evaluation. Moving forward, let’s take a closer look at evaluating specific features offered by various channel managers.

Evaluation Of Channel Manager Features

Choosing the right hotel distribution channel manager is like looking for a needle in a haystack without knowing the color of the needle. It requires careful evaluation and consideration of several key factors. The features offered by each channel manager should be reviewed to determine their alignment with your business goals. Assessing their ease of use, cost-effectiveness, customer support, and functionality are essential components in making an informed decision.

A comprehensive review of these features will set you on the path to selecting a channel manager that meets all your needs. With this groundwork laid out, you can move on to the next step: negotiating contracts with the selected channel manager.

Tips For Negotiating Channel Manager Contracts

Having evaluated the features of a channel manager, it’s time to negotiate a contract. Before beginning, set some goals and be aware of potential pitfalls. It’s important to know what you want and need in order to ensure that your hotel is getting the best deal possible.
Here are some tips for negotiating a successful channel manager contract:

• Firstly, be clear on the terms of the agreement. Make sure you understand exactly what each party is responsible for providing and the length of the agreement.
• Also, consider any additional fees such as setup costs or ongoing charges – these should all be taken into account when comparing offers from various suppliers.
• Secondly, look beyond the initial cost savings. Whilst it may seem like an attractive option at first glance, remember to factor in other elements such as customer service support or access to new markets and technologies.
• These can provide significant long-term benefits over cheaper alternatives with fewer features.
• Finally, don’t rush into signing anything until you are sure all parties have agreed on every detail and there is no room for misunderstanding later.

Reviewing contracts thoroughly will ensure that you have made an informed decision, giving you peace of mind when choosing the right channel manager for your hotel needs.

Conclusion

The right channel manager can make or break your hotel’s success. Considering the features offered and negotiating a good contract is important before settling on the best option. To make sure you get the most for your money, evaluate each channel manager thoroughly and focus on what is most important to you. When choosing a channel manager, it’s like shopping for a new car: you have to think about which features are needed and how much you’re willing to spend.

We hope this article has given you some guidance in determining which one is right for you. With careful consideration and due diligence, you can be confident that you are making an informed decision that will benefit your hotel in the long run.

Whether you are looking for the latest wellness product, heading off to a retreat to reset or want to try the newest fitness studio, we’ve got you covered. Our Wellness Editor, Anji McGrandles shares the skinny on all the hottest wellbeing news.

Try the limited edition DIRTEA beauty boosting menu at Farm Girl

To celebrate the launch of DIRTEA’s new ‘Beauty Mushroom’ powder – DIRTEA Tremella, they have collaborated with Farm Girl on a beauty boosting menu, jam packed with delicious skin saving drinks and dishes. Tremella aka nature’s Hyaluronic Acid is renowned for its beauty and skin enhancing properties and proven to improve skin tone, elasticity, and hydration, resulting in thicker hair, stronger nails and a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. The Farm Girl x DIRTEA Beauty Boosting Menu will be available to enjoy at both Farm Girl Soho and South Kensington.

Feel Electric

Struggling to find time in the day to squeeze in that all important workout? Then give your fitness routine a boost with an EMS workout at Feel Electric. Get fitter faster using EMS technology to offer a time efficient and high intensity workout, suitable for even the busiest of lifestyles. Loved by athletes, footballers and celebrities, the workout is short enough to do on your lunch break and still give you enough time to get a bite to eat afterwards. Feel Electric has studios around the UK and new openings underway.

Manage monthly cramps

Period Harmony was set up by siblings, one of which was dealing with bad menstrual pain and was looking for something that was convenient, worked effectively and gentle on the body. The result is the ‘Monthly harmony patch’, an alternative, accessible solution to naturally take the edge off pain for up to eight hours during an uncomfortable period.

A new luxury resort for grown-ups brings next-level wellbeing to the Greek Islands

Opening in June 2023 on the island of Crete, beach-front resort Pnoé Breathing Life represents a new chapter for the luxury wellbeing scene in Europe. Whether you want to improve your fitness, nurture inner health or simply rest and reset, Pnoé offers a selection of wellbeing solutions. Guests will have access to recovery programmes such as Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Zerobody and Breathwork therapy, alongside a state-of-the-art fitness facility and professional personal trainers. A stimulating workout can be balanced with a visit to the waterfalls of the wet area, the Himalayan salt stones, a wood fired sauna or the impressive ice fall. Pnoé also has an onsite beauty salon, as well as a Guest Relation Service to ensure that every need and requirement can be taken care of.

The must have gym and beach accessory for summer

The La Pochette Wet Bag is an essential for regular gym and spa lovers. Made from 100% recycled plastic bottles this stylish kit bag is perfect for storing wet swimwear and sports kit whether you are hitting the beach or relaxing at the spa. Lightweight, compact and features multiple compartments, it has a triple lock system to ensure reliable, leak proof storage of wet kit.

Get an on-demand wellness coach

Fitness entrepreneur, former professional ballerina and all-round powerhouse, Chrissy Sundt has launched Silver Linings Live, a new community-based on-demand, holistic wellness app with daily live classes. As well as delivering personalised support, it incorporates fitness and wellbeing sessions from a host of world-class experts. Silver Linings LIVE is an exclusive place, where members are prioritised, receiving information about new challenges and masterclasses first. Alongside the expert teachers and nutritionists, the Silver Linings Wellbeing community can ask questions and get responses to stay on track. Clients can arrange additional support on the community chat and book soon-to-launch ‘check ins’ with Chrissy and other experts via zoom.

Dynamic Pilates

Recently opened London Reformer Pilates is a boutique new studio, based in Marylebone. Developed by West 1 Health, they have collaborated with the experts of the London Pilates Academy to bring together the very best trainers in London. Taught by the academy’s experts, each upbeat, fitness-based reformer class of up to six people is tailored to ensure a personalised experience. Using the studio’s beautifully designed machines to support a full body workout, dynamic sequences are inclusively tailored to welcome everyone from beginners through to seasoned athletes.

Biohack your way to wellness

New, luxury wellness destination Grey Wolfe bridges advanced science with spiritual and traditional wellness practices. This wellness sanctuary focuses on tailor-made experiences, catering to people seeking alternative therapies for healing, body and health. The standout state-of-the-art biohacking treatments are what makes it unique. As well having an Infrared Sauna they offer innovative Rebalance Impulse treatment. Using a combination of stimulation and cognitive therapy, the Rebalance Impulse (RI) is targeted at fighting chronic stress, improving sleep quality, and strengthening the immune system using neuroscience with dynamic light pulses and sonotherapy. The RI gathers biofeedback and neurofeedback, to better understand how the nervous system is responding, along with your brain activity and the positive effects the body experiences during your session. All this information forms part of ‘brain training’ and is beneficial for restoring healing and relieving chronic stress, PTSD through EMDR, and improving memory, anti-ageing, emotional balance, wellbeing, enhancing sleep quality, pain management and immune system.

Introducing you to the Aria Hotel in Budapest, Hungary

The Aria Hotel Budapest is a luxurious, boutique hotel on a picturesque street next to the majestic Saint Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest‘s city centre.

Not only is it one of the best and most luxurious hotels in the Hungarian capital, but it’s also one of the most interesting in terms of its unique concept.

This luxury five star boutique hotel is housed in a meticulously restored 19th-century former bank in an elegant street just a hop and a skip away from the main shopping and dining areas.

Designer Zoltan Varro’s vision for the hotel was to simultaneously recreate the rich, lavish atmosphere of a historic Hungarian palace while also embracing visitors in the warmth and comfort of a private residence whilst complimenting the musical theme of the hotel.

The theme of music is front and centre throughout the Aria hotel. Not only are each of the dedicated four wings in the neoclassical building dedicated to a different musical genre which encompasses jazz, classical, opera and contemporary, each of the individual suites and rooms are named after individual artists and composers.

Illustrious age-old composers sit alongside esteemed contemporary songwriters like Bob Dylan and James Brown.

The theme of music is carried out throughout the public areas of the hotel. A black-and-white keyboard floor unfolds from the hotel lobby entrance through to the expansive and resplendent atrium where you will find a grand Bogányi piano that sits under the opulent atrium with an extravagant glass roof.

It is here every day, hotel guests and visitors can enjoy live music from a range of local artists. On our day of arrival, we saw a fantastic duo of Hajdu Klára and Milan Szakonyi who performed a standout and emotive set of reimagined covers.

Guests are also invited to partake in free wine and cheese whilst enjoying the musical performances which take place between 4-6pm which is a lovely touch.

The hotel also has a highly-knowledgeable music concierge/director too who is on hand with any musical questions you may have about the hotel or musical hot spots in Budapest. The attention to detail is carried out through the entire hotel staff who offer exquisite service.

With each of the hotels having four dedicated wings, we were excited to find out which one we were staying in and were thrilled with being allocated a room in the ‘classical’ tower.

Spacious, vibrant and playful adorned in hues of cream and blue, the decor is contemporary and elegant with neo-baroque furniture and Murano glass chandeliers. There’s also some thoughtful music touches which includes books and artwork pertaining to the genre in question.

Almost all rooms come with a balcony and have automatic window shutters which makes for a great night sleep. The bed is capacious and the room also has a handy area for working, a sofa and coffee table and ample storage space.

The marble bathrooms have a bath and a huge walk-in shower where you can indulge in the Molton Brown products which includes face wash as well as your standard toiletries. You can even choose to have music piped in from the main bedroom/living area into the bathroom.

One of the huge selling points of this stunning hotel is the subterranean award-winning Harmony spa which is a beautiful space that includes a fantastic swimming pool complete with four poster cabanas and loungers.

There’s also a spa pool/jacuzzi, steam room and sauna which are all much-needed after a busy day’s sightseeing. You can take your pick from all manners of spa treatments and return to your room relaxed and revitalised.

From the bottom to the top, and in this case – one of the hotel highlights is the spectacular High Note Skybar which affords the most stunning views from the roof terrace over the Basilica which is one of the best rooftop bars in the city.

Whilst we didn’t eat dinner in the hotel, we did partake in the breakfast which was held in the courtyard atrium – the Music Garden. All dietary requirements are catered for and you can enjoy either a cooked breakfast, cheeses and charcuterie, fresh fruit, pastries and more.

Those wanting to indulge further can also partake in a cheeky glass of prosecco if they so desire!

Without doubt, the Aria hotel is one of the best hotels in Budapest. Not only does it have a fantastic location, it’s also super-stylish with great amenities and is an ideal choice for any music lover!

The Aria hotel which is part of the Library Hotel Collection offers rooms starting from €408 per night, based on two adults sharing and including breakfast. For information and bookings visit: https://ariahotelbudapest.com/