When most people think of Charleston, they think of the beautiful beaches and historic homes. What they may not know is that there is a thriving hotel industry in Charleston, with a wide variety of hotel types to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort or a budget-friendly option, Charleston has something to fit your needs. And because there are so many options to choose from, it means that you have the opportunity to stay somewhere truly special, such as The Pinch Hotel which is considered a luxury boutique hotel. This way, you will have everything that your heart desires. Of course, it can depend on budget, but it is always worth checking out the prices online and looking for deals. The longer you stay, the cheaper you can often make the daily rate. 

So what are the different types of hotels that you can find in Charleston? Here’s a rundown:

Luxury Resorts

For those who want to experience the best that Charleston has to offer, there are several luxury resorts scattered throughout the city. These resorts offer top-of-the-line amenities and accommodations, as well as access to some of the best restaurants and attractions in town. If you’re looking to splurge on your Charleston vacation, a luxury resort is a way to go.

When we are spending money on our trip, it makes sense to consider the accommodation as important as the rest of the activities. Luxury can come in sleeping facilities, room service, and being ability to look out at a magnificent view of historic buildings or beaches, as Charleston has to offer. Terraces and balconies are very popular with tourists, for obvious reasons. Why not book a hotel at a location that surrounds you in the history and scenic views associated with a place?

Boutique Hotels

If you’re looking for something a little more unique than your typical hotel room, Charleston’s boutique hotels are a great option. These hotels are typically smaller in size and offer a more personalized experience than larger resorts. You can find boutique hotels throughout the city, each with its unique style and personality.

Those who like bespoke and who are looking for individual decors will appreciate the boutique hotel for something different. Generally, the owner will have created a certain theme for their hotel, which might well be in keeping with the place or particular location. Different rooms might even be themed differently to give you a choice of décor. You can choose what interests or excites you in that respect. It is nice to look at the beautiful scenery in or out and wherever you go. It all adds to your experience that you want to become a memory to cherish.

B&Bs

If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, Charleston’s bed and breakfasts are a great option. These small inns offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, as well as a chance to meet other travelers. Many of Charleston’s B&Bs are located in historic homes, adding to the charm.

If you are looking to do things on a budget this is a great option. Although, many on vacation will not want to hold back and want all the trimmings and the finer things in life for their trip away. There is the trend to have better holidays away and more staycations in-between times.

Vacation Rentals

For those who want the comforts of home while on vacation, Charleston’s vacation rentals are a good option. These rentals come in all shapes and sizes, from apartments to condos to private homes. Vacation rentals offer a more spacious and private experience than hotel rooms, and many come with kitchens and other amenities. It all depends on your preference of how you want to spend your time away.

No matter what type of hotel you’re looking for, Charleston has something to fit your needs. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the ideal place to stay on your next trip to the city.

When people ask me what I love most about my work, I simply answer, “the experiences.” Life, to me, is for living. It’s for finding our true soul’s purpose for exploring and unveiling the secrets of the world we inhabit.

I’ve travelled the globe, jet-setting to destinations I could have only dreamed about before I embarked on my House of Coco journey – but sometimes, even when you’ve just about seen it all, it’s the places on your doorstep that completely blow you away.

I’m fortunate enough to have had the privilege to drive some fantastic cars in my time. Still, nothing quite tops driving a convertible Bentley across the Yorkshire coast.

Wind coursing through my hair, tunes blasting, and the sharp, salty sea air in my lungs, “This,” I think, “This is how life should be every day.”

With gratitude to Bentley Leeds and Route YC, I got to experience an all-new route of the Yorkshire coastline like never before. From Scarborough to Bridlington to Whitby, over five days and four nights this May, I was transported on an expedition of God’s own country that will stay with me for a lifetime.

This new Yorkshire coast trip aims to rival the legendary and iconic Scottish NC500. I’ll bare no bones about it; it does just that and more. Incredible. Spellbinding. An absolute delight from start to finish.

As a proud Yorkshire lass, seeing the coast I’ve travelled before but not via this route left me with an even greater appreciation for where I’m from and what the UK offers. Following the pandemic and the rise of the ‘staycation’, this is an adventure that needs to be at the top of your travel list. Throughout the journey and stops, my days were packed with excursions and incredible experiences that can only be found on Route YC.

Here’s a breakdown of what is in store for you on Route YC:

Day 1

I began the YC Route experience in my very own convertible Bentley (wow, may I add!), calmly cruising across Yorkshire to my first destination in Scarborough. First stop, Wrea Head Hall, an elegant Yorkshire escape surrounded by greenery for as far as the eye can see. This picturesque gothic mansion seeps character in every crevice and perfectly suits my ride’s sheer opulence.

After a quick drop of luggage and freshening up, it was time to stroll through Hayburn Wyke beach waterfall for an idyllic afternoon in the cool May sun. By then, we had worked up an appetite, so dinner at Wrea Head Hall was more than welcome. The oak-panelled dining room and its delicately designed menu will leave you feeling like you’re in a Jane Austin novel.

Once our stomachs were filled and our palates cleansed, it was time to hit the hay for some much-needed rest before our first full day of adventure commenced.

Day 2

Rising to breakfast at Wrea Head Hall was enough to have us shining before we even left. It was then to the Bentley to begin a beautiful endeavour amongst nature. Stopping by Sewerby Hall Gardens to soak in all its natural beauty, followed by a wander through Danes Dyke, burnt off breakfast and built up excitement for our afternoon excursion.

We jumped back in the car onto our next Route YC stop, Bridlington, for Puffin & Gannet Seabird Cruise on the Yorkshire Belle. If the idea of seeing some gorgeous little puffins wasn’t enough to hype me up, we were lucky enough to see dolphins in Bridlington!

There’s a sentence I never thought I’d say and an experience that left my heart brimming. Who even needs the Maldives when you’ve got Yorkshire?

After the most incredible excursion and saying goodbye to the dolphins, puffins, and gannets, we hopped back in the Bents. We headed to our next stay; Raven Hall Country House Hotel and Lodges, Ravenscar.

This place is a must-stay with coastal views and accommodation to suit any need, from single rooms to lodges and cabins. The dining on Route YC is out of this world – the view from the restaurant at Raven Hall overlooks Robin Hood’s Bay and is enough to melt any stress away. Not that we had a single stress to melt after the most glorious day!

Day 3

After finishing breakfast with a view at Raven Hall the following day, we pottered on down to Robin Hood’s Bay. Perhaps the Yorkshire Coast’s best-kept secret. A small fishing village just six miles from Whitby, it’s quaint, beautiful, and Yorkshire to its core.

We then stopped at The Victoria Hotel for a spot of lunch to build back our energy before heading onto Falling Floss. Ambling around Falling Floss, a North Yorkshire National Park (we are renowned for our national parks, by the way!) was the perfect place to switch off and reconnect with nature. You will also be greeted by Falling Floss waterfall; this 30-foot hidden gem is guarded by an abundance of foliage and leaves you wondering if there even is a world outside.

For the evening, it was time to dine like a queen and sleep like a princess at Sneaton Castle, Whitby. Once home to the Sisters of the Holy Paraclete, this storybook location is a favourite for weddings, unsurprisingly but is a sure-fire treat for anyone embarking on their own Route YC trip.

The Garden Room restaurant offers a cosy bistro menu for any taste and is the perfect place to unwind after a long day on foot!

Day 4

They say eat like a king or queen for breakfast, and there’s no better place to do it than a castle! It was hard not to get used to the royal way of living as breakfast was followed by horse riding at Borrowby Equestrian Centre. This excursion would have even made Queen Elizabeth beam from ear to ear.

Obviously, by this point in our tour of Route YC, we were feeling rather tuckered out from all the fun, so it was only fair to check ourselves into the spa at Raithwaite Hall accompanied by lunch. Once we were suitably refreshed and relaxed beyond belief, it was time to ditch the Egyptian cotton robes for something with a little more sparkle and fit for a star – the Star Inn the Harbour, that is!

I can think of no better way to end an extraordinary experience than to be delighted by a delicate dining menu hand delivered by such an exquisite Head Chef like Joe Lees. First opened in 2017 by Michelin favourite Andrew Pern, Joe has genuinely brought the eclectic food indulgence usually reserved for ample city dining to his small home coastal town of Whitby.

The menu features freshly-caught seafood and produce from the world-famous North Yorkshire moors. It wouldn’t be an overstatement to say I was in taste heaven. The passion and dedication Chef Joe infused in each dish perfectly complemented the perfect trip. What a genuine joy and truly Yorkshire experience.

For our last pillow stop, The Stables at Whitby – Formally The Cross Butts, a rustic haven bordering the Moor coastline – is one of the most in-demand locations on the route. A tranquil, peaceful night’s sleep in a King Size bed was exactly what was needed to end the most brilliant adventure.

Day 5

I tried to make breakfast at The Stables last an eternity because finishing meant it was time to head home. And while it can’t be denied that after a long and busy trip, there is no better place than home, this experience was honestly magnificent from start to finish and gave me a view of Yorkshire I never thought existed.

Heading home in the Bentley, I couldn’t help but recount the spectacular experience of seeing dolphins swimming through the Bridlington waves or being fortunate enough to taste Chef Joe Lee’s incredible culinary skills. And how could I forget, getting to do it all by way of my very own convertible Bentley – the only negative experience of the entire route was handing back the keys!

Route YC, you’ve captured Yorkshire exceptionally. This is a journey you can embark on at your leisure, by car, bike, foot or even boat, as I came to find! There is absolutely nothing ordinary on Route YC, and believe me, you’ve never experienced the Yorkshire coast like this before!

routeyc.co.uk

The airline Tui has the tagline ‘be happy’ and when you fly with them to Mexico that’s exactly what you will be. Laura Barlett ruminates on the magic of Tulum

Setting off from Manchester on the T123 flight I was full of excitement and intrigue. I’d only ever visited Mexico for a few hours when I walked over the border from San Diego to Tijuana and had a crash course in all things Mexican. I ate tacos, drove around in a converted school bus and ate a caesar salad in the original Caesar hotel. But a few hours wasn’t enough to become truly immersed in what Mexico is really about. Which I now know is magic and miracles, but I don’t want to get ahead of myself just yet.

The flight was seamless and when we touched down in Mexico and the Tui staff opened the doors with huge smiles on their faces, it was as if they knew that what was about to come over me during my trip was way more than just the heat. Jumping into a transfer from the airport – after picking up a margarita whilst I waited, obviously – I was soon on the 90-minute ride to my first stop in Tulum.

The Kimpton Aluna hotel is in the popular and cosmopolitan Aldea Zama area and it was to be my first home during my stay. Check-in consisted of writing down something negative that I wanted to leave behind and then burning it in the popular Mayan ritual before making a wish. This welcome set the tone for the entire trip and, from this moment on, all that occurred was positive vibes aplenty, with a side serving of magic.

After dropping off my bags, freshening up and picking up a fresh green juice in the hotel’s restaurant, the beach was calling my name. At first glance, Tulum Beach is nothing special in comparison to the others. Crystal clear waters. Check. White sand. Check. But what the others don’t have, that this beach undoubtedly has, is the vibe. It’s not even something that the 26 letters of the alphabet could ever let me express in words. It’s a feeling that, once it touches you, your life will never be the same again.

When you sit on a beach in Europe you’ll be badgered every two minutes by a third-rate hustler trying to sell you items that will corrupt your life or, better still, break faster than you can say the words ‘corruption and lies’. But on the beaches of Tulum, you’ll find people trying to nourish you with vegan food, keep you watered with fresh juices and encourage you to spend more time looking through your third eye than the other two that the world can see. On the European beaches, people are searching for love, but on the beaches of Tulum people already know that they ARE love. Everyone is in their own bubble, high on life, and judgement has no place here.

Whilst drinking the best coconut water my mouth had ever experienced, picked up from Matcha Mama, as the waves were lapping and people were playing drums and dancing without a care in the world, I had a moment of reflection where I thought, isn’t life a miracle and wild at the same time? It’s like no matter what path we’ve all taken in life, what pitfalls and achievements we’ve endeavoured, every single decision brought each of us to this very moment that we’re in now. And while you might not even speak to your fellow sun-seekers other than a courteous hello, it’s almost like the unspoken truth lies in the air that your soul brought you here. To Tulum, to this beach and to this very moment. This very moment that once it’s passed cannot ever return, and that right there is the single biggest reason why we have to live in the moment. For it is all that we have. And if you can’t be present in Mexico, then you can’t be present anywhere.

With so much on offer, I reached out to Tulum Hype via Instagram to get the lowdown on the best things to do while I was in town. On my second night, they hooked me up with a reservation at one of the most exclusive restaurants in the Beach Zone, Negra Restaurant. I was dining solo but the staff were so much fun I felt like I was hanging out with my mates. I danced, smiled and laughed with my fellow diners and felt like a spoiled queen while the waiters finished off my sea bass table side, all while enjoying the sweet liquid gold that is a classic margarita, Mexico style. I noticed groups of girls and guys at the tables next to me, who hadn’t glanced up once from their phones. Flicking from app to app to show the world that they’re having a great time and living their best life in the virtual world, they seemed to be totally missing the entire point of our human existence, which is to live in the now and be present. Clearly, they cared more about looking happy on social media than being happy in real life which, sadly, is the single biggest mistake our generation continues to make.

After dinner, I hopped into one of the cabs that were waiting outside and the drive out of the beach zone was like driving through a Jukebox, with the eclectic tunes playing out from the different bars and restaurants as you drive by. From Nelly to Broomsticks, I relived my childhood, my teenage years and my later years, driving by the different bars with their different music giving me a mezcal-strength shot of nostalgia.

There’s a saying that you have to see it to believe it. But in Mexico, you don’t have to see anything. You only have to feel it. Zama, Pueblo Magico or Tulum. Whatever you call it, it will always answer. I was more present during my seven days in Tulum than in the last seven years. And, on my final night, I caught myself in a moment where I was looking up to the sky. It was like seeing the stars for the first time, everything seemed so magic and bright. There were a lot of stars in the sky that night, but then again, I was on my third margarita… so maybe I was seeing double.

Where to stay

Blow the budget and book a night at Papaya Playa. The hotel comes alive at night time and it’s like an adults playground with giant colourful mushrooms and lights dancing through the forest. Waking up here with your own private pool and view of the ocean is a serious treat for your soul. Expect barefoot luxury and spiritual energy unlike anywhere else in the world.

papayaplayaproject.com

Where to eat

Matcha Mama quickly became my favourite place to be. I spent most mornings in one of their locations, listening to the reggae music that they played while drinking one of their fresh juices and enjoying a healthy smoothie bowl.

matchamama.com

How to get around

ATV Tulum is the go-to place when hiring a quad. It’s the best way to get around in Tulum and you can drive them freely but make sure you’re wearing a helmet – as the police might stop you if not.

atvtulum.com

What to do

There are endless choices of things to do in Tulum. Whether you’re there to party or you want to go zen, Tulum Hype is the company to know. It’s like having access to the little black book of contacts and they’ll hook you up with the best things to do, cenote tours where they take the hassle out of everything and dining options that you otherwise wouldn’t know about.

experiencethehype.com

Many people dream of living in the big city, but not everyone can always afford it. With so much on your doorstep, it’s hard to resist spending money everywhere you look. Here are some tips on how best to save in the city.

Using public transport

When you move to a big city, you’ll notice there are plenty of public transport routes to help you get around your new location. Try to avoid splurging on taxis when you can jump on a bus instead, saving you so much money.

Why not do your bit for the environment and either walk or cycle to your location? We’re sure there are plenty of sights and tourist attractions to spot along the way, so enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride to your destination.

Try budgeting

Budgeting is key if you’re trying to save up whilst living in a city. Try to cut down your costs, especially when it comes to unnecessary spending.

Identify your total income and work out your monthly outgoings to see how much money you have available. Cancel any subscriptions you no longer use and try to swap for cheaper food alternatives at the supermarket – small changes can make all the difference.

Change your habits

It’s certainly appealing to buy lunch or a coffee whilst you’re on the move in the city, but taking your own will ensure you save a lot more money in the long run. 

These may seem like small expenses, but they definitely addup. If you absolutely must get a coffee whilst you’re out, you can often save money by taking your own reusable cup, knocking off a slight percentage from your caffeinated fix.

If you’re out shopping, make sure you remember to bring your own bags, again to avoid purchasing them whilst you’re out. It’s a frustrating expense that can easily be avoided if you start to incorporate these habits into your daily life.

Live where you can afford

Often living in the city comes with hefty price tags on houses and apartments. Consider your priorities – can you easily commute to work? Is the neighbourhood friendly and safe?

You could even consider living below your means – just because you could live somewhere flash doesn’t mean you necessarily should. Allowing yourself to save, make repayments and build credit history instead will leave you better off in the long run.

The UK is a great destination for lovers of the outdoors. Come rain or shine, there are plenty of things to do across the nation in all weathers, whether it’s catching the waves down South, or exploring the glorious hiking trails further North.

Whatever type of activity you like to do to get your adrenaline pumping, here are 5 adventurous destinations for outdoorsy people in the UK:

1. Ziplining in Kent

Perfect for adrenaline junkies who want to get some amazing views, Skywire in Kent is England’s longest zip-wire experience. Suspended 100 meters above the ground and facing right over the cliff edge, prepare to be suspended and get ready to cruise 724 meters at 60mph, in approximately 45 seconds… The best part? Skywire is located just 40 minutes from central London by train, so you could even squeeze in the experience during a weekend trip down to the Capital.

1. Surfing in Cornwall

A popular activity for those that love the fresh salt air and slightly cooler British sea, there are plenty of great places to surf down in South England. Fistral Beach has earned the reputation as the home of British surfing for its impressive waves that reach highs of 30 feet! This location is also easy to get to for those who like to get to the beach by static caravan or holiday home since the popular resort Piran Meadows is just a stone’s throw away.

1. Whitewater Rafting in North Wales

The South isn’t the only home of water sports. North Wales is also a great place for outdoorsy people who don’t mind getting wet, especially for those who want to go whitewater rafting down the River Dee in Llangollen. Here, the rapids range from grades 2-4 and will have you thundering through the picturesque Horseshoe Falls, and then along the rapids like Tombstones and the classic Town Falls. For those who like going with the whole family, bystanders can also watch you crash along the water from the bridge above!

1. Cycling in Derby

Thanks to the incredible success of Team GB in recent years, thousands more people around the UK are picking up cycling as a hobby. Whether it’s cycling to work, or spending the weekend exploring the local area, this sport has increased in popularity tenfold over the last few years. Not sure where to take your two wheels? Try Derby. Home to the infamous velodrome that welcomes not just elite riders but also novice cyclists who want to have a ride around this impressive track, Derby is also a great place to saddle up for cycling adventures across the beautiful Peak District and The National Forest.

1. Hiking in Scotland

Walkers are indeed spoilt for choice when it comes to amazing hikes in the UK – and there is no better place to go hiking than in Scotland. The West Highland Way is an unforgettable way to explore the landscapes between Fort William and Glasgow and will take keen hikers through Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park to see stunning heather-covered lowlands and gorgeous ragged mountain paths.

The UK is filled to the brim with top destinations for outdoorsy people looking to get their adrenaline pumping through a range of outdoor activities. The only problem is working out which one to do first!

When most people think of Instagram, the first thing that comes to mind is probably selfies and food photos. But what about travel? Instagram can be a great way to document your trips – from the planning stages all the way through to the memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.

So, here are some tips on how to make the most of Instagram when you’re traveling.

Plan Your Shots in Advance

Before you even leave for your trip, start planning out your Instagram shots. This will help you make the most of your time and get the best shots possible.

By posting the finest content that you can, it increases your chances of getting as many likes as possible, however, buying Instagram likes through sites like Twicsy can also be an option worth considering too.

That said, here are a few tips on how to plan your shots in advance:

• Decide what kind of photos you want to take. Do you want to capture the scenery, the people you’re with, or both?
• Think about the composition of each shot and what will make it look good. For example, if you’re taking a photo of a landscape, try to find a good vantage point that will show off the best features of the scene.
• Try to schedule some time for shooting in advance. This can be tricky if you’re on a busy vacation, but if you can plan out at least a few shots per day, you’ll be able to come back with a great Instagram album.

By deciding to follow these tips, you can be rest assured that your Instagram travel photos will be amazing and that everyone who sees them will be jealous of your amazing vacation!

Take Advantage of Instagram Stories

If you’re going on vacation, make sure to take advantage of Instagram Stories! This feature lets you post photos and videos that disappear after 24 hours. This is a fantastic way to share your trip with friends and family without clogging up your regular Instagram feed.

When creating a story, you can add text, stickers, and filters, and you can even record a video or take a photo directly from the story screen. This is an impressive way to document your trip without having to stop and post every single thing that you’re doing.

Make Use of Location Stickers

What makes documenting your travels on social media so great is that you can use location stickers to let everyone know exactly where you are. When posting on Instagram, simply click on the location sticker icon and search for the place you’re currently at. If it’s your first time there, the sticker will say “new” next to it.

Once you’ve found the location, simply add it to your photo or video. This is a great way to let your followers know where you are and also makes your posts more discoverable to people who are interested in that particular location.

Use Relevant Hashtags

In addition to using location stickers, you can also use hashtags to make your posts more discoverable. When it comes to choosing hashtags, try to be as specific as possible. For example, if you’re posting a photo from your trip to Paris, instead of using the generic hashtag #vacation, use something like #parisvacation or #travelingtoParis.

Another tip is to do a quick search of the hashtags you’re thinking about using before you post. This way, you can get an idea of how popular the hashtag is and how many other people are using it. You also want to make sure that the hashtag is relevant to your photo and that it’s not being used in a negative or spammy way.

Post Consistently

One of the most important things to remember when documenting your trip on Instagram is to post consistently. This means that you should make a point to post at least once a day, if not more. This will help keep your followers engaged and make sure that they don’t miss any of the photos or videos from your trip.

Remember not to overdo it, though. If you are posting multiple times a day, make sure that the content is varied and interesting. No one wants to see ten photos of the same thing.

Conclusion

So, whether you’re a travel novice or an Instagram pro, we hope these tips will help you document your next vacation in a way that captures the beauty and excitement of your trip. Have fun and happy travels!

It’s 2022 and thank God we’ve finally grasped the concept that nobody can be switched on 24/7. No, not even Beyoncé. We’ve talked about wellness and self care for years, so it’s great to see that looking after yourself is finally having its moment.

Self care looks different to different people, and while we love pool chill time as much as the next person, we’re not about spending two weeks glued to the same sun lounger. Keeping your mind alive while your body is in rest (or vice versa) is super important.

Retreats have been popular for the past thousand years. Of course, it was more prayer than pilates back in the day, but those early spiritual refuges laid the cornerstones for what modern retreats are all about – serenity, health and mindfulness. I’ve been on my fair share of retreats and sadly some of them don’t tick the basic boxes and experiences have been intense – like being drafted into the troops, or ‘health’ trips which is essentially just a host starving their guests to extinction.

One word changed everything I knew about retreats: Terranam. Terra is Latin for earth or land, and Anam comes from the Celtic for soul or spirit. Together, they promise wellness retreats for renewal and relaxation. Yes I was apprehensive but it’s important to go into everything in life with an open mind.

Located in Galicia on the tip of Northern Spain is the base for Terranam retreats. The property is built on the foundations of an old 1700s manor house tucked away in an idyllic spot between the mountains and the sea. More importantly, the space has been expertly transformed into a haven of spaces – a swimming pool, lush gardens, relaxation areas, fountains, nearby beaches and secret lagoons. Lodgings include 11 ensuite bedrooms, each designed to be its own sanctuary, a retreat within a retreat.

Terranam retreats come in four, five or seven day packages and include accommodation, a 60 minute massage, two daily yoga classes, two meals per day (more about that later), snacks throughout the day and whichever various activities you’d like to join in on. The important bit is that activities are optional and it’s really up to each guest what they get involved in but the massage should be non negotiable.Take it from our experience, there’s absolutely nothing relaxing about being dragged up a mountain against your will and then pushed off the top with a parachute on your back. Terranam activities include boat rides and island hopping, beach time and yoga classes – stuff we can really get on board with.

The property has its own 18th Century chapel which doubles as the perfect spot for the retreat’s sound healing sessions. For those who don’t partake, sound healing is proven to reduce stress by balancing and clearing the mind through sound – it’s like a form of guided mediation but with gongs and singing bowls.

Health retreats have a nasty reputation synonymous with rehab or prison, being locked away and denied of any food until you emerge looking like your best self. Doesn’t take a genius to figure out that’s not good for the body, or for the mind.

Terranam offers up a three course meal every night with expertly crafted vegetarian and seafood dishes, designed by Spanish Michelin-star chef Marta Cebrian Lopez. These dishes are prepared fresh on site and lovingly made from the highest quality, and freshest ingredients, most of which is an absolute game changer. Although slightly off the beaten track from your average tourist, the region of Galicia is actually often linked to foodie pilgrimages, and has some of the highest tourism growth rates in mainland Spain (you heard it here first, folks). Seafood feasts are a tradition in this part of the world so you’ll finish your retreat on a high, with an exquisite banquet paired with local wines.

The retreat has a commitment to sustainability within everything they do and it really shines through here, with organic ingredients sourced from their own land, and seafood coming in fresh from the local fishing villages. And more importantly, every ingredient serves a purpose (and some of it even re-purposed) so nothing goes to waste.

We absolutely cannot talk about Terranam without mentioning the force behind it all – the boss and founder, Maria Garrido.

Originally from Galicia, Maria has seen her fair share of the world, between travelling and living in different countries, but throughout her life always managed to find her way back home. Wherever they were in the world, every year, Maria’s family would return to Galicia for some R&R, and to reconnect with the beautiful surroundings. Terranam is Maria’s way of sharing this experience with the world.

www.terranamwellness.com