As we get closer to summer, most people will place traveling and vacations at the forefront of their minds. Being able to take some time off work to relax is necessary to allow your body to recharge. One of the most enjoyable activities is exploring various features that nature has to offer on land. While this is exciting, it becomes even more enjoyable if you use a campervan to facilitate your travel since it provides more enjoyment and freedom.
Even though there are numerous benefits you can enjoy from traveling in a campervan, it becomes challenging if you do not own one. However, do not worry; you can book motorhomes online Tasmania from LeisureRent at very affordable prices. Continue scrolling to discover the benefits you will enjoy from hiring a campervan for your family holiday.
Easier Than Setting a Tent at Each Place You Stop
Provided you have a campsite, hiring a campervan will allow you to enjoy the ease of arrival and a home away from home. Usually, if you are utilizing traditional camping, you will be required to spend significant time unpacking your car and setting up your tent. A campervan makes this way easier as the only setup that will be necessary is connecting electricity and filling up the water supply. Thus, this will enhance your experience making it more beautiful and memorable.
Flexibility to Go Wherever You Want
This is one of the most significant benefits a campervan will provide as you can move wherever you want and on your own time. While there might be some limits based on availability at campsites, a campervan can facilitate the perfect basis for your travel. You can make as many stopovers as possible while on a campervan, unlike when you are using a bus or train. If you value privacy, a campervan is your ideal vehicle to travel in during your trip.
More Storage Space
One of the most challenging decisions when traveling is what to pack and what not to. This is a common problem, especially for ladies. For instance, if you are traveling in summer when most days are hot, you cannot assume that all days will be hot. Therefore, you must carry some warm clothes for cold days. However, if you are staying in a hotel, you might be limited in the clothes you can take. Campervans offer a lot of space. Thus you can bring anything you want.
Ability to Self-Cater
Even though one of the exciting traveling moments includes trying out new dishes, it can sometimes be challenging when you do not like the food. Fortunately, traveling in a campervan allows you to carry your own cooking ingredients to prepare healthy meals in addition to the new dishes you try out. Also, you might travel to places with no restaurants or fast-food stalls, making cooking essential.
Nevertheless, if you do not want to cook, you can always ask your driver to drive you to a nice place to have a meal.
Getting away for a weekend or longer is appealing in the colder months of the year. Any kind of getaway will be beneficial, but there is something special about a rural getaway in the winter months. This post will look at how you can prepare for this type of trip and why it might be the perfect time of the year to escape to a rural destination.
How to Prepare
To prepare for a rural getaway, you will want to get everything booked in advance so that everything is taken care of. You will also want to make sure that your car is in the best possible condition as you do not want to break down and be stranded in a rural destination! This is why it is a good idea to get a basic car service completed in advance of your trip, which will improve the condition of your car and resolve any issues that the car has. In terms of packing, you will want clothing that will help you to manage the cold and waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear to enjoy wintery walks.
So, what are the benefits of a rural getaway?
Escape Urban Life
If you live in a town or city, there is something nice about escaping urban life even if it is just for a weekend. With fewer people around, you will feel like you have more space to breathe and think, which can be helpful for recharging your batteries and reducing stress.
Enjoy Simplicity
Similarly, you will find that life can be a lot more simple and straightforward in rural areas. These are areas where people lead lives that are more simple and natural compared to major cities and this can be revitalizing. Additionally, you will notice the importance of community in rural areas and this can be refreshing compared to busier areas where people often will not give each other the time of day.
Connect With Nature
A rural getaway also allows you to spend time in nature and this is proven to enrich your life in a few ways. You have endless options for rural areas with outstanding natural beauty in the UK and spending time exploring nature even in the colder months can give you a mental health boost and allows you to discover the great beauty that the UK has to offer.
These are a few of the main benefits of a rural getaway, which can be the perfect tonic at this time of the year. You are spoilt for choice when it comes to rural getaways in the UK with many beautiful and welcoming places to visit, but you also need to make sure that you are well-prepared for this type of trip before you set off.
Let me take you down the rabbit hole, through the cobbled streets of one of England’s oldest cities, where you’ll be met by an unassuming building that holds the secrets of The Vices York.
A stay at The Vices York will make you feel like you are stepping into Milan with their directly imported, innovative smart technology that adorns each suite. This sanctuary is filled with the owner’s super quirky and fun personalities. The two co-founders, Daniel and Moreno, are a match made in heaven. Daniel is a trained chef and sommelier and Moreno is from Rome where he discovered his love for art and design. A quirky duo who have admirable attention to detail which is showcased so elegantly throughout the property.
The stand-out feature of this particular location is its building, housed inside an old Victorian police station; like much of York, it is brimming with history in every crevice.
Breakfast was to die for, carefully curated and stunning in delivery. I could not get enough, and every mouthful was a pure delight.
My night was spent in the luxurious second suite – there are only three suites in total – which proves the exceptional attention to detail each one carries.
Described by The Vices York as “A contemporary and playful concept, with an undertone of feminine authority”, I personally couldn’t describe a suite more befitting of my personality.
With my very own bathroom oasis which came with a plentiful offering of not only an Aquaelite shower but also a double circular bath; it was the idyllic setting to unwind and switch off and catch up on the latest episode of Real Housewives on my iPad! To add to this suite’s incredible offering, I also had my own private dressing room, complimentary fresh coffee, fruits and pastries, as well as parking – which is a big must for any city getaway.
If you’re searching for fine dining, then you’re in luck – their immaculate restaurant concept served by Chef Luke Sanderson invites you to taste a six-course set journey that will whisk you away onto a taste fairytale.
What’s more, you can indulge the mixologists at the on-site cocktail bar or book a tour of their wine library, where you can sample and discover a variety of specially sourced champagnes and fine Italian wines.
The founders, Daniel Curro and Moreno Carbone, have crafted an exquisite addition to York’s already stunning grandeur.
I simply cannot wait to revisit The Vices York experience their unique dinner experiences, and get lost in their traditional architecture that graciously moulds with their contemporary design.
This is York’s true hidden gem.
If you want to Explore Italy right in the heart of York, you’re in luck as they are hosting an exclusive Wine Tasting event hosted by sommelier at The Vices York.
Co-founder of The Vices York and professional sommelier, Daniel Curro, will stage a luxury wine tasting event on Sunday 11th December from 4pm – 6.30pm. This forms part of a series of wine tastings, which will guide guests through an exploration into Italian wine from different regions.
Many wellness companies fail to recognise one of the essential pillars of wellness: happiness. They focus on extreme fitness through unrealistic boot camps, where celery juice and smoothies are the only options on the menu. But, after a full day of healthy activities, it’s human instinct to crave some reward. If we do not get one, our happiness levels deplete, leaving us dissatisfied, and we often return home ready to gorge on everything on offer!
The Andronis Group clearly understands that the secret to wellness is balance, which breeds happiness. When we feel happy, our bodies release chemicals and signals to the brain that make us feel good, reducing stress and increasing overall wellbeing.
As a woman who has worked in the high-pressured, high-stressed corporate world for over two decades, finding and maintaining balance has become a lifelong mission. How do we find balance in the ever-changing world of the ‘new normal’ we live in, where employers and clients demand speed of delivery and growth of change? In recent years I have discovered that slowing down for a moment can, in fact, help us speed up; even the fastest car in the F1 needs a pit stop to stay on track, right? So, when the invite arrived on my desk to attend an award-winning luxury wellness experience, how could I say no?
Situated on the idyllic island of Santorini, live a collection of luxury wellness hotels by the Andronis Group. Each hotel is uniquely different, but all share the same philosophy ‘to ensure guests live the holiday experience in full, in every way, every moment of their stay’. The island resides on volcanic rock that provides an undeniable earthy yet electric energy that leaves one feeling grounded and invigorated.
The group have charged itself with redefining and reimagining hospitality, focusing on space, peace, and unparalleled service. During my visit, they certainly achieved that.
My experience started in Imerovigli, a Santorinian gem on the island’s most romantic coast, with views stretching across the breathtaking Caldera. The Caldera of Santorini has cave houses and architecture built on volcanic soil. Words cannot describe the awe-dropping beauty of this place; a picture cannot capture its full glory, so I will express the feeling I felt when I stepped out of my Andronis Concept suite onto my private terrace. Immediately excited to see the infinity pool built out on the edge of the cliff landscape to look out onto the horizon of the Aegean Sea. At that moment, it was as though time stood still, with an incredible rush of feelings of wonder and gratitude for our wonderful planet. It was a tantalising beauty that made me feel alive, yet the vastness of the water and its tranquillity immediately allowed me to relax completely. The weight of career aspirations, targets, goals, and expectations evaporated into the ether, and at that moment, I belonged to the Andronis Concept, which is all that mattered. A wise man once told me there is something about large bodies of water that influence our nervous system.
Staring at the ocean changes our brain waves’ frequency and puts us into a calm meditative state. Listening to the waves activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which makes us more relaxed. In addition, the negative ions in the sea breeze have a mood-boosting effect. What a perfect destination.
Andronis Concept Wellness Resort Santorini has 29 pool suites and villas, with sophisticated yet minimalist interiors, but it’s the private outdoor terraces that receive the gold star and its resident restaurant, Throubi. Fine dining at its best, Santorinian gastronomy, created using the fresh raw ingredients from their garden. An evening meal here is not just dinner; it’s an experience, a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. The competition between the beauty of the sunset views from the restaurant and the artistically created and flavoursome dishes leaves you in sensory overload.
The Kallos spa is the hub of wellness at this hotel, and whether it is a traditional massage, advanced beauty, or yoga, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. My curated program consisted of all of the above and a non-evasive bio-energy session with Dr.Zulia Frost.
The spa boasts two pools and a hammam area, but be sure to immerse yourself in the hot cave pool to get an authentic feel for Santorini and its hot springs. My favourite activity was aerial yoga, something about hanging upside down and looking out onto the Caldera from the elevated yoga studio was utterly magical.
My wellness journey continued in the spectacular town of Oia. If you have seen the Santorini picture-perfect postcards with the white buildings nestled into the cliff edge and the bluest sky as the backdrop, chances are it’s Oia. The perfect honeymoon destination; as you walk through the busy winding paths in this town, you can feel the love! And, if it’s love you want, in the form of cuisine, then I must mention Lauda Restaurant, Santorini’s first-ever restaurant, labelled ‘the best restaurant in Santorini’ for a reason; simply put, it is. Lauda is the resident restaurant at Andronis Boutique, and although I didn’t stay there, I wasn’t going to miss the opportunity to try the legendary 3 Michelin Starred Chef Renault’s creations.
The Andronis Arcadia is the newest member of the Andronis family in Santorini. The all-suite hotel offers an exceptional standard of comfort, and I preferred the elegant modern living space. The hotel has a different atmosphere from the Concept, I enjoyed a more vibrant feel, but, I did miss those spectacular views. Each suite here boasts its own private pool and terrace, but as this hotel had an onsite beach club offering chillout music, cocktails, and delicious sushi from the Pacman Sunset Restaurant, I spent most of my time here after treatments. Did I enjoy a cocktail or two? Of course, I did! This group promotes a balance, and an 80/20 rule, so it would be rude of me not to enjoy the entire experience.
A jam-packed agenda of wellbeing curated by Director of Wellness, Carla Sage, is what I received at the Evexia Spa, the centre of wellness at Arcadia. Guest comfort and experience are a priority here with its newly installed private spa pool, beautiful design, and unique water path, known as the Kneipp pools, designed to ignite reflexology points. I recommend following the Kneipp experience with a deeply relaxing foot massage to leave you feeling refreshed, reset, and relaxed. If feet are not your thing, delicious sound baths, kundalini dance, and regular treatments are all available. Finally, I was honoured to experience an excellent session with Royal Acupuncturist Ross Barr. If it’s good enough for our Royals, it’s good enough for House of Coco.
How would I sum up my experience with the Andronis?
Cosmopolitan life at its best, the highest level of luxury, the best quality food (and alcohol); yes, all of that in a wellness resort. As I asked at the start of this article, ‘Have the Andronis Group just redefined wellness by achieving the perfect balance? My verdict? I believe they have.
Wellness retreats from €3,045 for 3-days (two adults sharing a Sunset Suite including breakfast) based across either Andronis Arcadia and / or Andronis Concept
Acupuncture by Ross Barr and sessions by Zulia Frost are bespoke and tailored to the individual; POA.
The Hypervolt Go 2 is TSA approved, super lightweight and portable to provide relief on the go. Melt away tension from long hours of travelling with Hyperice’s patented QuietGlide technology, meaning you can use without disturbing fellow travellers as it is virtually silent.
Not only is this practical towel functional, it’s pretty damn cute, too. It’s name comes from the unique way it folds as it’s scrunched together, providing more space in your bag for other things. It also features a special knitting technique developed in-house and sports a funky design.
Never get your complimentary bottle of hotel water mixed up with anyone else’s again. Designed to fit most 500ml bottles, the fully adjustable strap allows you to carry your bottle of water over your shoulder – perfect for those mountain hikes.
If you prefer to workout in your hotel room or just don’t want to do your downward dog on a communal gym mat, then look no further. These eco-friendly non-slip exercise mats are the perfect accessory. Light weight make them ideal for traveling and the black strap makes it perfect for carrying around town.
The ultimate travel companion, the sleek size makes it ideal for packing away in your suitcase to make your favourite protein shakes wherever you are in the world. It’s powerful, self-cleaning and all you need is a USB lead to power it.
Forget taking bulky headphones with you when travelling, these wireless earphone fit perfectly into your pocket and are just as powerful. They feature bluetooth and allow calls straight to your ear controlled via buttons on the earphones. 4 hours of playback time.
This invigorating bath and body oil will help to soothe and revive body and mind after a full on workout at the gym. Help those tired legs after a day of hiking when you pour this into a warm bath. With eucalyptus, clove bud and sweet almond your skin will be left feeling soft and supple. Plus with its 100ml bottle it’s ideal for carry on luggage.
This fitness based webcam is the perfect companion for those always on the road looking for a studio worthy workout. Just connect it to your hotel TV and it will display all the classes available on the Peleton app, with a focus on strength training, for you to follow along to.
Lightweight and compact, these resistance bands are perfect for a full-body workout, and you can do them anytime and anywhere without a gym. This band can give resistance up to 200LBS, which is excellent for strength training, Pilates, cardio and recovery.
Ask Icelanders what they are most proud of, and the likely reply is their seafood. This island, at the confluence of the North Atlantic and Arctic oceans, boasts the lowest population density in Europe. Its geographic location means the country is blessed with an abundance of fresh seafood meaning it is unrivalled as a top seafood foodie destination. We travelled along the lesser-travelled South-west coast to discover the breathtaking scenery and the awe-inspiring cuisine.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Often called “miniature Iceland”, it is the long, slim peninsula that juts out of Iceland facing the North Atlantic Ocean to the west. It has a jaw-dropping landscape with mythical mountains. Games of Throne enthusiasts will recognise many scenes from the series being filmed in this area. Most of the 5000 inhabitants in the area live on the north side of the peninsula in fishing villages that are as old as Iceland’s original settlement.
If you want luxury remoteness, the place to check in is at Hotel Búðir. It is a great place to observe the northern lights in the wintertime. You are mere steps away from the iconic black church. And the restaurant at the hotel is widely regarded as one of the best in Iceland working with producers in the locality. Common dishes you will see not just at this restaurant but in others include arctic char, shellfish soup and cod fillet. Here, they add their personal refined touches, so with the latter, you get langoustine velouté for extra umami-richness and baked hazelnut for textural variety.
The first port of call from the hotel I would recommend is Arnarstapi. An ancient path along the coastline passing through ravines and grottoes makes for a dramatic hiking trail. You will spot a small-scale fishing port along with dozens of birds like the kittiwake and the Arctic tern. Next head to Hellnar which had the largest fishing village beneath the Snaefellsjokull ice cap. The peculiar caves and rock formations are a photographer’s dream. There is also a charming beach cafe, Fjöruhúsið, which serves anything from Pönnukökur (Icelandic pancakes) to sea urchin feasts.
For lunch, head to the family-owned, Viðvík Restaurant. It might be at a remote destination, but judging by all the rave reviews online, it’s a trek worth making. Dishes have a very Nordic feel and include outrageously fresh scallops served in a langoustine bisque and a moreish pan-fried cod with a cauliflower trio, dill pesto and kale.
You will know fishing is the lifeblood of the community when you visit The Maritime Museum in the Fishermen´s Park which has fascinating exhibits like the largest fish caught in the community. Nearby you’ll find the hectic harbour of Rif, where you might spot fishing vessels returning to the harbour with their catch of the day.
Bjargarsteinn in Grundarfjörður
This is one of the most incredible restaurants you will come across in the region. Not least the story of how the restaurant was built. It is a quaint old house built in 1908 in Akranes but was transported 140 kilometres to its current location, as the owners saw the potential for it to be a restaurant. The owners wanted a new location with spectacular scenery, and they have with the magnificent coastal ridge in the seaside village of Grundarfjörður. The menu is a collection of lovable hand doodles from the chef and includes rarely seen dishes like smoked puffin and fillet, tongue and cheek of Arctic cod. If you get chatting with their personable staff, they may even let you try the infamous fermented shark along with a shot of “black death”. Upstairs in the cosy living quarters, they have a recording studio for their regular podcasts.
The face of new Nordic cuisine
If you want to understand the latest trends in Icelandic gastronomy then you must meet/follow Viktor Örn Andrésson. With countless accolades like Nordic chef of the year and previously running Blue Lagoon’s LAVA restaurant, he is the forefather of a new wave for the Icelandic culinary scene. He currently runs a catering company but does occasionally offer cookery workshops which I would highly recommend attending. You can learn about the different types of fish in the region, how to fillet a fish and even try the likes of redfish sashimi.
Stykkisholmur
Finally, I recommend heading to this centre of commerce and services for the local area. I say ‘centre’, but have to caveat by saying it is only a town with a population of about 1,100 people. However, the quality of the seafood restaurants there is surprisingly superlative. Sjávarpakkhúsið is a great venue for lunch with tapas-style dishes for sharing. You’ll come across several dishes you won’t ever see in the UK like halibut tartare with chives, apple and horseradish mayo and wolffish with celeriac salad, whey and brown butter.
If, like me, you are a fan of seafood platters then you’ll be in seafood heaven at Narfeyrarstofa. Icelandic scallops, giant whelks, and umami-rich sea urchins are all on offer. You can try salted cod (bacalao) fried in Icelandic butter or even fish and chips in a light tempura batter.
Travelling around this remote part of the island does require time, but if you plan out your itinerary well, it is a culinary adventure well worth embarking on. The standard of seafood is above and beyond what you can find in continental Europe.
A trek to Everest Base camp involves a fair bit of preparation, even more so if you are not going with an Expedition company (I chose G Adventures). Being a novice to multiple day hikes (even summiting Mt. Fuji was just overnight), I knew I was going to have my work cut out for me. Luckily, I had the help of a good friend who was more well versed in the great outdoors than me. This roundup is a joint effort with input from my friend of over 20 years and now trekking partner in crime, Kathy. For review – the trek to Everest Base Camp is a total of 12 days. It takes 8 days (including acclimatization days) to reach Base Camp and 4 days back. Our group ended up losing a day due to bad weather, but made up for it by trekking for longer periods during our descent. Here are the essentials and comfort products I took on the trip:
The Essentials:
The Layers
If you know anything about long distance activity, it’s all about the layers. And with that, the fabrics and materials become especially important. As a rookie, I knew this – but did not fully understand how important it would become. Let’s start from outside looking in:
The Shell Jacket
It boggles my mind how the lightest, thinnest jacket is also the most expensive. It has to do with the intense layer of GORE-TEX that coats the shell. The Rab Women’s Kangri GORE-TEX Jacket has 3-Layers of GORE-TEX waterproof technology (70D) with a recycled outer fabric. There is a nice fleece lined chin guard for comfort, the adjustable two-way zipper is great for those with a short torso. And it’s totally waterproof.
Compact Down Hoody Jacket
For the record, I love hoodies. They provide extra warmth in a pinch. Once we passed Namche Bazaar (3440 m), the mornings were chilly until the sun came out to say hello. For the majority of the ascent, I wore the Rab Women’s Microlight Alpine Down Jacket. It’s tried and true – wear it on the mountain or in the city. Besides the quality, I appreciate the Rab’s colorways. If you like something with a bit more of a shine, try The Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer/2™. It has a flattering waistline with the best fitting hood ever. As an added bonus, both of these hoodie’s fold into small packs (included) which can double as a neck pillow.
Pants
I knew at some point, my normal exercise tights were not going to cut it. I was going to need something that was waterproof. These Mountain Hardware Women’s Stretch Ozonic™ Pants fit the bill. And since these were my only pair of fully waterproof pants, I wore the same outfit 4 days straight. I liked how the side zips made it easy to de-layer mid-trail so that I did not have to take off my boots in the process. They also kept my tights clean underneath from all the dust and were easy to clean post trek.
Mid and Base layers
The mid-layer, Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Hooded Half-Zip Jacket was great over my T-shirt during the day, or over top layers at night in the Tea Houses. The kangaroo pocket is the best. Useful for hauling your cell phone, the enormous key for your Tea House room and a travel adapter all at once. I love the Cotopaxi’s vibrant colourways. Besides being made from recycled fleece, the polyester taffeta accent is recycled from other companies’ deadstock fabric supply.
The last time I wore a base layer, I was in grade seven, cross country skiing. So yes – it’s been a while. Merino in all forms is the way to go which I rotated throughout the trip. The Rab Women’s Forge Long Sleeve Tee is a lightweight Merino blend base layer, great for warmth, breathability and to add a punch of color to your outfit.
On day 5 or 6, I switched it up and wore the MAMMUT’s Trift Long Tights under my exercise tights. I found it too hot, but perfect under my thinner waterproof trekking pants. Their tailored shape conforms to the body eliminating the need to pull them up over time. The insulating tights have merino wool which helps regulate body temperature and inhibits odors.
From the waterproof Gore-Tex® membrane to the secure-grip vibram® tread outsole, these MAMMUT Yatna II High boots worked well on the 12-day trek. Taking a short period of time to break in (less than a month), not one blister was found after the Everest Base Camp adventure. The boots retain their shape and can be resoled.
Bags
This vibrant Del Día collection from Cotopaxi turns deadstock material from other brands into backpack and packs. This Coso 2L Hip Pack – Cada Día has more pockets than a substandard zip fanny pack. The two zippered pockets connect and have a helpful reservoir for easy access to your water bottle. Perfect for the acclimatization hikes when our group did not need a full pack. It was extremely comfortable worn crossbody or around hips.
I wanted a pack that checked the boxes – light, supportive and had had tons of storage potential and found all that and more in the Mountain Hardware Scrambler™ 35L Backpack. The 4-Layer Dimension-Polyant™ fabric is durable and lightweight surviving the literal throws of a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. All the zippered pockets were great for stashing passports and visas while we were in transit. I was concerned that I didn’t have a rain guard for my bag, but thankfully the bag is waterproof.
Eyewear
I knew we would need to have some quality eyewear, something that looks as good as it functioned. SMITH delivered on both of the styles that I sported throughout the trip. The first is the Bobcat, with a slight wraparound fit, with ChromaPop™ lenses. The nose pads were secure and provided the best comfortable non-slip grip ever. There was minimal fogging even when I wore my neck buff. The Bobcat’s hardshell case is big enough to carry a few pairs of shades; I fit three! The SMITH Embark are equally stylish shades with cool white frames and ventilated side shields. I wore them in low lighting, mostly on the descent. Highly recommended for any sport requiring eye protection from the glaring rays.
Trekking Poles
The Mountainsmith Halite 7075 are my first pair of trekking poles. The updated version is built with aluminum and is collapsible to 16”. The wrist straps and the EVA handles are comfortable, even with gloves. Being a newbie, I really appreciated the YouTube video on how to adjust your poles. All Mountainsmith products come with the Forged for Life Guarantee, the official Mountainsmith lifetime warranty. Used more than not, I found them helpful on the descent with the uneven rocks and stairs.
Socks
I first learned of this company a few years ago, but if you are a regular to the outdoors then, you should not be a stranger to Darn Tough Vermont socks. Available in different heights and cushions (I went for midweight), the socks are guaranteed for life. Conveniently available in multipacks, like the Women’s Hiker Cushion Quiver 3-Pack. They kept my feet warm in the frigid cold nights and dry during the day. For half the trek, I wore the Arc’teryx Merino Wool Lightweight ¾ Crew Sock. I was pleasantly surprised about how well they fit well in our hiking shoes, the support given and how well they wash.
Headwear
It was after the second day when I decided it was time to start wearing some head protection. On colder days, I would wear The Reflective Lid by Smartwool. Made from Merino wool, it also has an interior headband liner which helps wick away the sweat. On warmer days, I wore the Arc’teryx RHO LTW BEANIE which had a lighter weave and accented my Rab down jacket well. After taking a few warm showers and then having to retreat in the freezing cold to get back to the room, I started to wear The Smartwool Thermal Merino Reversible Headband to bed. It was great to keep my damp hair at bay and my ears warm.
Gloves
Although you didn’t need gloves throughout the trek as much as I thought, the Rab Women’s Power Stretch Contact Grip Glove was very comfortable. Made with Polartec® Power Stretch® Pro fabric, the grippy palms made it easy to grab phones and water bottles without removal.
I ended up doubling up on the two coldest days with the MAMMUT Astro Glove. The Gore-Tex Infinium™ Windstopper® material on the back of the hand is windproof and breathable, the synthetic leather across the palm is robust and abrasion-proof. The weather was constantly changing by the hour and by the afternoon – they found themselves back in my pack. The clip is a nice feature to keep the pair together.
The Comforts:
Although our group was not camping along the trail to Everest Base Camp, our Tea House quarters were simple. All rooms had a single bed with a mattress, with some bedding provided. Some rooms had insuite washrooms, with cold water showers and others had outdoor communal bathrooms which included squat toilets (arguably more sanitary than regular toilets). All Tea Houses required you to have your own supply of toilet paper and soap (but available for purchase, should you run out).
Speaking of sanitation, along the trek, shower costs would range from $2.50-10.00. These showers were heated by gas and were relatively accessible. I never went longer than two days without one. I used a healthy amount of hand sanitizer and wet wipes, and probably could have brought more.
Après Trek:
For sleep, I used the Rab Silk Ascent Hooded Sleeping Bag Liner. Silk is a natural fiber that makes a great base layer,dispersing heat and keeping your whole body warm. It also helped to keep the sleeping bag clean. The liner protected the bag from any sweat or oils too. I found that it enhanced the insolation of the sleeping bag and was easy to pack within my bag every morning.
The Rab Down Hut Slipper was a nice addition to my après trekking look by the fireplace in the common rooms. Made with 100% recycled down and a 100% recycled Pertex® Quantum outer. Read: The slippers were toasty. There were nights when my feet felt like they were so cold (probably just more a side effect of the altitude sickness medication I was on, which affected my circulation) that I would wear them to bed and then kick them off in the middle of the night because they were so hot.
Water:
The Himalayas are known for many things, but safe drinking water is not one of them. Besides obvious particulates that can be found, the water can contain many germs and contaminants which I treated additionally with drops . Our group got efficient at treating the water to keep up with our demand on the trek.
I had the CamelBak Eddy® + filtered by LifeStraw®, 32oz Bottle with Tritan™ Renew in one side pocket of my pack. This lightweight bottle filtered the water twice to remove bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, and reduce lead, bad taste, chlorine and other unwanted chemicals. I was being hyper vigilant and would treat my water with drops even before putting it through the treatment system in the bottle. The straw cap is spill proof and easy to prime before taking it on the journey.
In the other side pocket of my pack, I had the LARQ bottle. Every LARQ Bottle utilizes PureVisTM purification technology to eradicate up to 99.9999% of bacteria, viruses and protozoa. When set to Adventure Mode, the bottle purifies water in 3 minutes. Although I could have left the drops out, I still used them regardless. I did not want to take any chances of getting sick. It was nice to have the UV-C filter as an added level of protection, as the one charge lasted the entire 12-day trek.
Snacks/Food:
It was important to support the local Tea Houses when our group could, through the purchasing of food and supplies. While food and snacks were available at every Tea House, variety was lacking. Some of the snacks were expired and the price steadily increased as our group went up the mountain.
On our trek I carried a handful of various snacks including the Herbaland Active Electrolyte Gummies and from their Snacks with Benefits line, Shroom Power,Coconut MCT Oil. Each snack tasted like candy, which was a nice change from the more robust protein I was devouring. Each has their own added benefits including essential electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium, mushroom varieties like, Turkey Tail, and Cordyceps, and well known MCT and coconut water/oil. My favorite was the Shroom Power which was flavored lemon and black tea. Throughout the hike I was craving an ice tea and ginger ale to no avail, so these were a welcomed treat. All flavors are high in protein, and fiber to help sustain energy.
After our daily trek, I had my fill of Dhal Bhat and at some points, just boiled potatoes with Yak butter depending on how I was feeling. I also brought a few freeze-dried meals including Happy Yak. Our challenge was getting hot water, well -hot enough to adequately cook our meals. But once hot, they were delicious and hardy. My favorites included the Mandarin Beef and Rice and the Granola Raspberry and Vanilla for breakfast.
Tech:
At the airport, I purchased a N-Cell SIM card which helps me stay in touch abroad and keep up on social media. Once our group was up the mountain, I purchased an Everest Link, which covered spots where the N-Cell SIM card would not work. Charging was not always free and so I relied on a few tech supplies.
The BioLite Charge 80 PD, USB-C PD Powerbank was helpful. First off, you are able to charge multiple devices at once – so I was able to charge the powerbank and charge my phone all at once. There are 2 USB-A Quick Charge Out ports available and 1 USB-C PD port which is more than sufficient for charging our phones constantly. As it got colder, I would keep the charger in my sleeping bag to work more efficiently. For the entire 12-day trek, I recharged the battery once. In a sea of black USB cords, the blue BioLite one was a strong advantage.
To utilize the charger, you need a travel adapter. Mine of choice was the Samsonite World Wide Power Adapter. It fits outlets in Australia, China, US, Europe and the UK. Nepal uses UK plugs. It has a built-in USB as well, which makes it easy to charge more devices at once. It’s red and black exterior makes it easy to spot travel essentials.
Our group were told that if the weather permitted, we could do the extremely challenging hike to Kala Patthar – (at 5,644.5 m it would have given us additional views of Everest, and neighboring mountains Nuptse and Changtse). This trek would require a reliable headlamp. I chose the BioLite HeadLamp750 (800 is now available). Unfortunately/fortunately the weather turned and we were unable to do the additional hike. I still made use of the HeadLamp750 in a few spots up the mountain, notably Dingboche (4,410 m) where the restrooms were outside in pitch black. It has an incredibly comfortable headband. The RunForever pass-thru charging feature enables you to use the headlamp and charge at the same time.
Utility/Organization:
Anyone who sets foot outdoors on an adventure knows the Victorinox Signature Lite Swiss Army Knife is a must-have with many iterations depending upon your needs. On the trek, the most useful function was the pen, which was helpful when changing SIM cards. The sharp scissors came in handy for cutting anything including our dehydrated food packets, to loose strings. The nail file helped my mid-trek jagged nails.
The GoCup and Go Bites Quattro from San Francisco’s Human Gear really put form and function together. First the GoCup, is a collapsible cup made from FDA food-grade silicone. I used it more than I thought, from brushing my teeth to drinking muscle recovery powder drinks. A press-fit lid keeps things clean during transport and features an integrated pill holder. It’s 100% BPA-free, PC-free, and phthalate-free. Having a set of utensils, like the Go Bites Quattro, was incredibly helpful. The carry case made it easy to keep the entire set together. The set includes full sized chopsticks (instead of a knife found in the Trio) and a hidden toothpick.
While Porter’s carried up 22 kg of our belongings in a duffle, I wanted to keep things organized. The AWAY Clear Pouch Set and the AWAY Insider Packing Cubes fit inside my enormous dry bag, which then fit into my duffle. The porters skillfully tied each duffle with heavy duty rope and anything could have busted under the pressure. I lost a few toiletries this way. The pouches and cubes are easy to clean post trip and can work with any sort of adventure – be it city or country.
Inside one of my pouches, I stored my mini pharmacy where I used the Human Gear GoTubb 3-Pack, to keep Tylenol and Benadryl. Though the containers are quite small they are easy to open with one hand. Although I used them for pills, they can be used for other small items like spices (or you have a scenario like mine, where periodically you keep finding chili flakes in your belongings because there was a hole in the Ziploc bag).
Skincare:
My usual routine was trimmed down as getting up early and realizing on the second day, the sun was more potent than I imagined it would be. In fact, my nose is still burnt. I was able to carry both these items from MD Solar Sciences. The Daily Perfecting Moisturizer SPF 30 was a great first layer of hydration and protection. Since I have eczema, I find that some sunscreen can either irritate my skin or dehydrate it. This one is a nice balance. To even out my skin tone, I would use the MD Mineral BB Crème SPF 50 in medium. This BB Cream feels nice and velvety smooth on your skin. It’s made with naturally-derived Eco-cert Zinc Oxide, and infused with caffeine and niacinamide to help minimize discoloration and redness.
Going on a vacation is always an attractive idea, but sometimes we do not have enough savings to do so, it is more than understandable due to inflation and the crisis. The good news is that you can ask for a personal loan and use it for traveling. A smart way to use a vacation loan is to invest it in travel expenses, including transportation, food, and entertainment. There are some reasons to do so and Loan Cheetah professionals are willing to explain why you should use vacation loans for travel expenses.
Travel expenses to consider on vacation
These may be obvious things to talk about, but it is worth doing a quick review, travel expenses include:
Transportation: Either from the airport to your hotel or the other way round, same for the transport you will use during the trip to go to places, both public or private. Some places have higher public transport rates than others and the same with private ones. What is more, if you are thinking about renting a car you need to pay for the rent and gas, and if you have a kid there are some extra fees to pay for.
Lodging: Whether you are thinking about going to a fancy hotel or camping, both need to be paid for.
Entertainment and attractions: There are always tickets to pay so you can access museums or parks. This is a budget to take into account, sometimes it is more money than expected.
Emergencies: It is always advisable to have a budget due for emergencies, whether you get injured or get robbed, you need to have some money for any unexpected situation.
It is more probable to do the math for the plane tickets rather than travel expenses, then, it is better to use your own money for the tickets and then determine the loan for the day-to-day during your vacation. That also means you can have a budget for your holidays in which you decide to spend some amount of money, which is prudent, but also if you already asked for the loan it might be better to do it worth it. These are some pros about using your loan for travel expenses:
Fixed payment: Once you ask for your loan, you can fix terms with your borrower so you can do your monthly payment with an already fixed schedule, in this way it will be better for you to plan your future repayment.
No collateral: If you have problems repaying your loan, you won’t be at risk of losing property such as a car or a value object you could give as collateral.
Fund emergency while traveling: This means that while having a travel loan, you will be calmer that if some emergency arises, then you will be able to pay for it because of having extra money thanks to the loan.
Potential for lower interest rate: When having a good credit score, it is more probable you get better interest rates in comparison with credit cards. It is a lower-interest alternative that can save you some money.
If you want to enjoy those free days but your savings are not enough, you can always get a travel loan. They are a great alternative as they are easy and fast to get. Why should you use it for travel expenses? Well, it can be part of your fund for emergency travel, which gives you more tranquility if something unexpected happens. It will also give you more freedom regarding your travel budget as you only dispose of that money for those specific expenses, letting you organize yourself with all the costs of traveling.
Earlier this month our Editor in Chief Laura and I took a week-long girls trip to Dubai (which you can read all about HERE).
We ended our trip with two magical nights at the Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort (which feels like you’re on a Maldivian island, it’s truly stunning!).
During our stay I was so inspired by the beach-y decor; the woven lighting, solid wood tables and splashes of teal – I instantly knew I had to create a “get the look” to help you re-create this beautiful decor within your home!
Barcelona is a brilliant holiday destination for all kinds of reasons. As well as having only 55 rainy days a year on average, it also boasts a beautiful beach for enjoying all of that sunshine, as well as the fascinating Catalan culture and more touristic sites than you could shake a stick at. That’s why we’ve chosen Barcelona as the venue for this girl’s guide. We’ll be showing you around the best places to stay, eat, relax, and more. So pack your suitcases, we’re off to the Costa Brava.
Stay at H10 Hotel Madison
Having somewhere really special to stay is an essential part of a luxury holiday experience. Barcelona isn’t a massive city, but if you want to get around on foot then having a hotel that’s slap-bang in the middle of the Gothic Quarter couldn’t be more convenient. The H10 Hotel Madison is right around the corner from the famous 13th-century cathedral, meaning that you can view the towering turrets up close from the spectacular rooftop terrace. Whilst admiring the architecture you can also grab a cold cocktail from the bar, or pause your sightseeing to enjoy a dip in the rooftop pool. If the roof terrace isn’t persuasive enough, you’ll also enjoy the stunning interior of the hotel. All of the bathrooms are fully marble tiled, with spacious showers, or claw-footed tubs in the superior rooms. The rooms themselves have elegant high ceilings and feature beautiful views on whichever side of the building you’re situated on. Finally, breakfast is a culinary delight of deli-style meats and cheeses, paired with fresh bread, pastries, and fruit from the local market. The perfect start to a busy day of sightseeing.
Get active at Paddle Barn
Caption: Paddle boarding is a great activity for a hot day
Once you’ve dropped your bags off at the hotel, there’s going to be one place you want to go to more than all others and that’s the beach. There are miles of golden sands and blue seas to enjoy in Barcelona, along with sunbeds to hire and people selling refreshments who walk up and down the length of the beach. Once you get settled in, there’s really no need to move. However, there are lots of activities for more active travelers, too. In fact, paddle boarding is super popular, so much so that it’s been added to the itinerary of the prestigious EPT, or European Poker Tournament. If you’d like to give it a go, then Paddle Barn is a great place to hire boards from. Not only is it as close as possible to your hotel, but they also offer classes for beginners right up to advanced-level paddle boarders. Those with particularly good balance can even try their hand at SUP Yoga; it’s a real challenge, but so rewarding once you get the hang of it.
Eat at Can Culleretes
After you’re all paddle-boarded out, it’s time to fill up on some traditional Catalonian food. There are plenty of choices in Barcelona, but Can Culleretes is like walking back in time. The restaurant has been here since the 18th century, although the building has had a few different uses during that time. Walking inside, you’ll find paintings and photos covering the walls. Some are of the celebrities that have visited the restaurant over the years, whilst others are paintings of the ‘celebrities’ of yesteryear. The title of the oldest restaurant in Barcelona is hotly contested between this and two others, but it’s generally accepted that Can Culleretes is the oldest. There are all kinds of menus to choose from here but eating from the tapas menu means that you’ll get the broadest culinary experience. Ibérico ham is a must; these special pigs gorge themselves on acorns, giving the ham a wonderful nutty flavour. The salt cod croquettes are also a favourite in these parts and provide a delicious, salty, crisp accompaniment to a cold beer. Make sure to leave room for dessert as their Crema Catalana is not only a regional delicacy, but a particular speciality of the restaurant too.
