MAR29

Solo escapes

 
  • Posted by Anna
    March 29, 2013

    From city-centre hotels where the in-crowd parties to villas with impromptu open-air dinners, if you’re going it alone, we’ve found some great places for you…

    Hotel Omm, Eixample, Barcelona, Spain

    Hotel Omm

    Locals congregate at the bar of this super-cool hotel in the Eixample district of central Barcelona, giving the place a really great buzz in the evenings.  You can tuck into tapas and salads on the roof terrace, or dine like royalty at the Michelin-starred restaurant, Moo. Upstairs, the rooms are bathed in natural light, while the bathrooms have luxuriously deep bathtubs and special touches like bathrobes, slippers, and jars of bath salts. What a wonderful place to really spoil yourself.

    Puri Ganesha Villas, Pemuteran, North West Bali

    Puri Ganesha VillasDiana, who owns Puri Ganesha Villas, is an incredible hostess. She loves to bring her guests together for impromptu parties – but if you’d rather enjoy a bit of peace and quiet, the 4 beachside villas, each with a private pool, are wonderful to escape to. Dinner is served in the convivial open-air restaurant (or in your villa if you prefer), giving guests a chance to socialise with one another and swap travel stories over a glass of wine or a deliciously strong cocktail. The menu changes daily, but think Bali-style chilled gazpacho, giant prawns steamed in banana leaves, and swordfish with pesto on garlic mash. Yum.

    The Establishment, Sydney, Australia

    The EstablishmentThis is one super swanky hotel. It’s bang in the middle of Sydney’s main tourist attractions – the opera house, Harbour Bridge, Centrepoint, the Rocks – so there’s plenty to see and do nearby during the day. Come evening, there are 4 bars, a nightclub, a sushi kitchen and a fine dining restaurant to choose from, or, if you fancy a quiet evening in, you can arrange to dine in your room. Which, by the way, will be beautifully designed and luxurious, without scrimping on comfort.

    Portixol, Palma, Mallorca

    PortixolWe love a room with a view, and that is exactly how they are categorised at this relaxed harbourside hotel . It’s worth splashing out on our favourite (Mediterranean View with Terrace) to watch the beautiful sunsets over the sea from the comfort of a lounger on your terrace. The historical buildings, art galleries and boutiques of Palma are an easy bike ride away, and there’s a great pool to laze by. And, with reduced rates for single occupancy, you’ll have more Euros to spend on a delicious feast in the restaurant or cocktails in the lively bar.

    Home Hotel, Palermo Hollywood, Buenos Aires, Argentina

    Home HotelCool design, warm staff. Home Hotel is, as the name suggests, like a home away from home. The spacious rooms are full of creature comforts like llama-wool throws, cable TV, WiFi and iPod docks. Chill by the pool in the fragrant garden, where any street noise is drowned out by birdsong, or enjoy some ‘me time’ in the spa. At night, the cool ‘resto-bar’ is the place to be, where the city’s top-rated bartender serves inventive cocktails and 22 different hand-infused vodkas. Bottoms up!

    Hi Hotel Eco Spa & Beach, Nice, Cote d’Azur, France

    Hi Hotel Eco Spa & BeachThis is the place to be seen on the Nice scene. The décor is wild: purple and green resin floors, movie screens between bath and bed, and a pink lift which whizzes guests up to the orange cushion-clad designer loungers by the rooftop pool. Lazy sun-filled days can be spent at the hotel’s nearby private beach club (guests get discounted entry), before dancing the night away to tunes spun by France’s best DJs. If you fancy something more sedate, there’s a hammam and steam bath for guest use, and design books and magazines to peruse in the lobby.

    Posted in Our Favourite.... Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
MAR27

Easy Escapes for April

 
  • Posted by Melissa
    March 27, 2013

    Howling winds and torrential downpours have been battering our little island for too long now and, frankly, it’s all getting a bit tiresome.

    If, like us, you’re in desperate need of sun, we’ve put together 3 ideas for last-minute breaks to warmer climes. No need to thank us, all you all you have to do is book*. Secure your accommodation through i-escape, then follow our recommendations for travel, and voila! It’s time to start packing…

    Lovely Lisbon – from £363 per person (2 nights, 12-14 April 2013)

    While other European capitals bow under the weight of their reputations, Portugal’s historic hub offers a genuine sense of discovery – and that all-important springtime sunshine. Take a traditional yellow tram to Alfama and wander the mazy alleyways until you find the cathedral. Later, ascend the hill to the Castle of St George for stupendous views over the city and a first-hand look at the home of Portugal’s kings.

    Stay: in a romantic room at Chiado 16. The Chiado district is one of the places-to-be in Lisbon and the snazzy, urbane interiors of this 17th-century townhouse mirror the buzzy world outside. A 2-night stay in a Romantic Double Deluxe Room comes to £132 per person, and i-escape guests receive a free bottle of wine, plus bread and local sausage, upon arrival.

    Fly: from Liverpool to Lisbon with easyJet for £206 per person, departing on Friday 12 April and returning on Sunday 14 April (direct flights), or for a similar price from London airports.

    From the airport: The hotel can arrange return transfers for £25 per person (based on 2 people sharing).

    Total cost: from £363 per person, including all taxes.

    More info: Getting to Portugal and other accommodation options

    Gorgeous Gozo – £426.50 per person (5 nights, 15-20 April 2013)              

    Gozo, little sister to the Mediterranean island of Malta, offers a more relaxed and rural experience than its larger, more developed counterpart. That said, they come as a pair and together they offer a well-rounded getaway. Gozo has tiny towns, winding lanes and the beautiful Ramla Bay. Across the water (stop off at the Blue Lagoon en route), Malta has the walled- cities of Valetta and Mdina, as well as charming fishing villages and Megalithic temples to the south.

    Stay: at Thirtyseven Gozo, a beautifully converted boho-chic farmhouse set in a sweet, sleepy village close to beautiful landscapes and glorious sea-cliffs. A 5-night stay in the Barambura room comes to £295 per person, with a free bottle of wine for i-escape guests.

    Fly: from Luton to Malta with Ryanair for £96 per person, departing on Monday 15 April and returning on Saturday 20 April (direct flights). There are regular ferry crossings between Malta and Gozo, costing £13 per car.

    From the airport: A week’s car hire with Holiday Autos costs from £56 (collection from the airport).

    Total cost: £426.50 per person, including all taxes.

    More info: Getting to Malta and other accommodation options

    Cool California – £944.50 per person (7 nights, 17-24 April 2013)

    If pleasant and balmy temperatures just won’t cut it, you need to head for the desert. The stunning Palm Springs landscape sits on the cusp of the Joshua Tree National Park – known for its ‘tormented trees’ and Dalí-esque rock formations – and is just 2 hours from the world-famous glamour of Hollywood. It’s the very antithesis of winter drudgery.

    Stay: at Spin and Margie’s Desert Hide-a-way for a taste of off-the-beaten-path serenity. This kitsch desert ranch sits amid cacti and trees with amazing mountain views, and offers a fun, alternative take on the California experience. The guest house is offering 7 nights for the price of 6 in its self-catering cabins, making a 7-night stay in the Mojave Wanderer cabin just £293.50 per person (including taxes).

    Fly: from London Heathrow to Los Angeles with British Airways for £589 per person (direct flights), departing on Wednesday 17 April and returning on Wednesday 24 April (overnight flight arriving Thursday 25 April).

    From the airport: The hideaway is 50 minutes’ drive from the airport, and we’d recommend hiring a car to make it easier to explore the area. A week’s car hire with Holiday Autos starts from £124.

    Total cost: £944.50 per person, including all taxes.

    More info: Getting to California and other accommodation options

    *Please note that only the accommodation may be booked through i-escape.com. The information on travel is provided as a service to you, and must be booked through other websites, as indicated. All prices and availability are correct at the time of publishing. The per person prices are based on 2 people in a double/twin room or an apartment for 2. Published on 27 March 2013.

    Posted in Easy Escapes. Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,
MAR25

Escape of the Week… Bambu Indah, Ubud, Bali

 
  • Posted by Anna
    March 25, 2013

    This week we’re plotting our escape to a beautiful antique wooden house at Bambu Indah. A short drive from Ubud (of Eat, Pray, Love fame), this eco-chic retreat is set in organic gardens and rice paddies, with some of the most stunning views in Bali.

    The houses are surrounded by lush green plants

    The houses are surrounded by lush green plants

    This magical hamlet of 11 wooden houses is surrounded by nature: there are rice paddies on the doorstep, a natural river-pool filled with tiny fish to swim in, beautiful views across the gorge to majestic volcanoes on the horizon, and a chorus of frogs to lull you to sleep at night.

    Enjoy the stunning views across the river gorge

    Enjoy the stunning views across the river gorge

    Rooms: The houses were hand-carved from teak by Javanese tribes over 100 years ago, and more recently rebuilt and restored by Canadian jewellery designer John Hardy and his wife Cynthia. They now feature modern touches such as WiFi, open-air rain showers and high-tech Japanese loos, alongside traditional furnishings and collectables like Tibetan rugs and African wall-hangings gathered by the owners on their travels. It’s hard to choose a favourite: Afrika has a great loo with a view, light and airy Elora suits longer stays, and Udang has a glass floor so you can gaze at the shrimp pond below before climbing into bed.

    Udang House

    Udang House

    Food: Meals can be enjoyed in the on-site restaurant, the Minang House, on your veranda, or on the small deck area overhanging the ravine. Breakfast includes fruit, local coffee and homemade bread alongside hot options, while lunch is a feast such as mixed vegetables with prawns and rice. Evening meals are a real treat: the simple yet delicious dishes are created using fresh ingredients from the gardens.

    The natural pool-river

    The natural pool-river

    Top Tip: Don’t miss a visit to the owners’ Green School – the world’s number one model of sustainability in education.

    The bridge to the Green School

    The bridge to the Green School

    i-escape guest review: “An utterly beautiful, rustic, restful, soulful place to stay. The staff were very helpful and kind. The food was wonderful. A perfect escape after a day of exploring. It is a little bit away from the centre of Ubud, which was perfect for us but it’s worth noting that if you don’t have a car, bike or scooter you’ll need to get a taxi to and fro – taxis are easy to come by. We stayed in both Biru House and Kunning House, and thought both were utterly charming.”
    Roisin, United Kingdom (29.09.12)

    i-escape gift: a free room upgrade subject to availability on arrival

    Read the full review and book Bambu Indah >>

    Posted in Escape of the Week. Tagged , ,
MAR22

Just back from… Andalucia

 
  • Posted by Anna
    March 22, 2013

    Our Editor Liz and her husband Jon recently returned from a trip to beautiful Andalucía. It says it all that despite having (unusually) terrible weather, they had the most marvellous time and would return like a shot…

    The White Villages

    This is the real Spain: white hilltowns, Moorish palaces, orange trees, flamenco, long beaches, sherry bodegas, seafood restaurants and beautiful natural scenery. We started in the south in Tarifa, the windsurfing capital of Europe surrounded by miles and miles of golden sand, then moved up to the White Villages – pueblos blancos – set against a stunning backdrop of pine-clad mountains and silvery olive trees. The authentic town of Velez-Malaga was our final stop, a good base for beaches with excellent local tapas.

    Casita La Laguna

    Casita La Laguna

    I’m almost reluctant to publicise this place, as it is a true gem and already booked up most of the time! An idyllic self-catering bolthole for 2, Casita La Laguna sits in glorious gardens, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the twinkling lights of Morocco in the distance. When the weather’s good (most of the year), you laze on the enormous terrace, reading books and soaking up the sun, or go horse-riding with the little casita’s lovely owner Mei-Ling, along empty beaches and into the surf. But if the weather’s bad (as it was for our stay), you can wrap up in blankets and sit on the covered terrace watching storms come in, then retreat inside where there’s a comfy sofa and a wood-burner. Incredibly romantic and relaxing – 15 minutes from Tarifa.

    Dar Cilla

    Dar Cilla

    Tarifa itself is a laid-back town full of surf shops, great restaurants (seafood and tapas) and a covered market with an excellent range of seafood and vegetables. Dar Cilla makes a perfect base from which to explore – 8 lovely apartments, decked out in Moroccan style with iron lanterns, tile-topped tables and Berber bedspreads. You can self-cater for convenience and head out on foot to explore – you’re right in the heart of things. Owner Zoe and manager Martina really make the place, offering brilliant local advice (on day trips to Tangiers, too), and generally making you feel at home. And the crowning glory? The shared roof terrace, where you can lounge in the sun, then drink wine as the sun sets.

    Hotel Los Castanos

    Hotel Los Castanos

    We then headed for the pristine wilderness of the Alto Genal – amazing mountainous scenery where you hike through quiet pine forests and visit untouched pueblos blancos, where people still live a very simple lifestyle. We loved Cartajima, one of the prettiest of the towns, which has a population of 100, with just 4 kids attending the school! Hotel Los Castanos is set here, a wonderfully welcoming guesthouse with comfy rooms, glorious views and a stylish yet homely feel. Owners Di and John are the perfect hosts, and Di’s home-cooked meal was the best of our trip – magret of duck with pomegranate molasses, followed by honey mousse with local strawberries. The town of Ronda is just 15 minutes’ drive away for day trips; its gorge is utterly magnificent.

    Hotel Palacio Blanco

    Hotel Palacio Blanco

    Our final stop was Velez-Malaga, an untouristy town 30 minutes from Malaga airport, so a great start or end point to a trip. Hotel Palacio Blanco is a sociable small hotel set in its centre, with a pleasing blend of modern and Moorish décor, and a lovely roof terrace with a plunge pool and honesty bar. Spend the day on sunny beaches close by, then return to wander the town’s cobbled streets and eat excellent local tapas. New owners Jan and Christa are a delight.

    Posted in Our Trips.... Tagged , , , , ,
MAR18

Sunny Springtime Getaways and Giveaways!

 
  • Posted by Anna
    March 18, 2013

    Everyone needs a bit of sunshine in their life, especially after all these long, grey winter days.

    We’ve chosen 5 of our favourite springtime getaways and asked the lovely people over at Lounge Lover to suggest some key pieces to pack for stylish, sun-filled holidays…

    Sardinia

    Beautiful sandy beach in SardiniaThat photo itself is alluring enough but Sardinia has much more to offer than just glorious beaches. A good size island, there’s lots of places to explore – beautiful hilltop ruins, the fine old capital Cagliari and fascinating archaeological ruins are just the starting point. Our new Sardinia collection is full of elegant hotels and chic B&Bs to base yourself in.
    Explore our full collection of places to stay in Sardinia >>

    Andalucía

    The Alhambra, Andalucía

    Just a 2 hour flight from northern European cities, even a long weekend to this enchanting area of Spain is within reach. From everything you imagine Spain to have like white-washed towns, flamenco dancers, city carnivals and wave-pounded beaches to wonderful surprises like snow-shoeing on Spain’s highest peak in the Sierra Nevada, Andalucía has it all. From fabulous city centre hotels to hilltop hideaways with stunning views our range of places to stay is as diverse as the region.
    Explore our full collection of places to stay in Andalucía >>

    Rio de Janeiro

    Exotic Rio de Janeiro

    Wonderfully exotic Rio de Janeiro. Its magic is drawn from the vibrant local population and its stunning location along a stunning island-studded coastline and surrounded by breathtaking mountains. Home to legendary beaches and a wonderful party atmosphere, it should be on everyone’s must-visit list. As you’d expect, each of our places to stay in the city is filled with charm and personality.
    Explore our full collection of places to stay in Rio de Janeiro >>

    Crete

    Cretan harbour

    Stunningly scenic and historically rich Crete is the largest island in Greece. There are many hidden gems to be found away from the main tourist hotspots, especially along the south coast where stunning coves are backed by soaring mountains. But there is more to Crete than natural beauty, there are many charming towns and no visit is complete without a visit to a Minoan palace or experiencing the colourful local traditions.
    Explore our full collection of places to stay in Crete >>

    Bali

    Bright hillsides in Bali

    Bali is a little slice of heaven: uncrowded beaches, bright hillsides carved into perilously narrow tiers, wild forests, stunning volcanoes, amazing temples and some of the world’s finest and most interesting places to stay. We’re talking boutique hotels with private infinity pools, luxurious health retreats, hill-top villas with panoramic views and eco-chic retreats. Wow.
    Explore our full collection of places to stay in Bali >>

    The perfect packing pieces from Lounge Lover

    Cut-out shoulders are a signature Lounge Lover look. This top reveals a hint of tanned skin, making it a must-have for springtime travels.

    Happy Open Shoulder Sweater in Pearl and Happy Classic Trouser in Lilac Grey

     

     

     

     

    This look is a master class in how to travel in style. Team a billowing sweater with supersoft trousers, for easy chic that’s still comfortable enough for long flights.

    Happy Two-Tone Sweater in Marine and Happy Travel Trouser in Marine

     

     

     

    Wherever you’re going, arrival in style with a statement jumpsuit – it’s light enough for even the warmest destinations and doubles up as classic resort wear.


    Happy Jumpsuit in Marine

    Just one more thing…

    Whether you’ve got a trip planned or you’re just at the daydreaming stage, we’re giving you the chance to win some stylish goodies from Lounge Lover. Up for grabs is a Winter Chill Resort Jacket with Zip and a signature tee (both pictured) with a combined retail value of over £220.

    This competition has now closed – congratulations to our winner, Sarah Wilson from London!

    If you’ve fallen in love with any (or all!) of the items and just have to have them now, we’ve got a cheeky discount code for you – click here to head to the Lounge Lover site and enter the code IESCAPE for 15% off… happy shopping!

    Full terms and conditions:
     
    • To enter the competition, email competitions@i-escape.com with the subject line “I want to look stylish in the springtime sunshine!”
    • Opening and closing dates of the competition are 18th March 2013 to 24th March 2013 inclusive
    • Winner will receive one Winter Chill Resort Jacket with Zip and one Signature Tee from Lounge Lover
    • Winner of the competition will be notified by email
    • Prize must be claimed within 1 week of announcement date. If the winner does not contact i-escape, we reserve the right to choose another winner
    • Competition is not open to i-escape employees
    • Competition is open only to those aged 18 and over
    • Only one entry is permitted per person
    • No purchase is necessary to enter
    • There will be no cash or alternative prize available
    • i-escape reserve the right to amend or withdraw the competition without notice due to circumstances beyond their reasonable control
     
    Posted in Competitions. Tagged , , , , , ,
MAR18

Escape of the Week… Appartement Blanc, Paris, France

 
  • Posted by Anna
    March 18, 2013

    This week we’re hopping across the Channel to Paris. Appartement Blanc, a simple yet quirky pad on the cool side of town, is the perfect base from which to explore the city. It’s surrounded by independent bistros, bars and boulangeries, where you can stock up on tasty cheese and wine before cooking up a delicious dinner in the kitchen.

    The light and airy living area

    The light and airy living area

    Set in a traditional 18th-century apartment block, this city bolthole is light and airy, with white walls and floorboards and huge windows. Quirky features like Parisian wall art and colourful pillows add a touch of fun. There’s plenty to do and see nearby: wander around the Pere Lachaise cemetery, where Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde are buried, catch a show at the Cirque d’Hiver, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Canal Saint Martin, or head to major sites like Notre Dame and the Louvre, which are just a half-hour stroll away. After a day of exploring, return to the apartment’s lovely sitting room, complete with big comfy sofa, a TV and plenty of books.

    Pere Lachaise cemetery

    Pere Lachaise cemetery

    Rooms: The apartment has 2 bedrooms (perfect for families), plus an open-plan kitchen/sitting room and a cosy shower room. It feels enclosed, private and refreshingly quiet. The master bedroom has a low-slung double bed and plenty of hanging space for clothes. The children’s twin room has a huge gilt mirror and funky green and pink lamps. Shutters on the windows keep out the morning sun (perfect for lie-ins), but voile curtains allow light in during the day.

    The comfy master bedroom

    The comfy master bedroom

    Food: The open-plan kitchen/sitting room has simple cooking equipment: 2 hobs, a fridge, a kettle, a Nespresso machine and a microwave, as well as a small white dining table. There are plenty of grocery stores near the apartment, but it’s worth taking a trip to one of the many markets to pick up fantastic fresh ingredients. If you fancy eating out there are hundreds of restaurants on the doorstep – try rue Oberkampf, where young, cool Parisians gather, or the old-time chic of the Marais in the 4th arrondissement.

    The quirky kids’ twin room

    The quirky kids’ twin room

    Top Tip: Tear yourself out of bed early to take advantage of the amazing boulangeries nearby. We loved starting the day with fresh pastries (still warm from the oven) and morning coffees from the Nespresso machine.

    i-escape guest review: “Had a great time and it was our second time in the apartment, this time with a 9 year old and a 7 year old! It worked perfectly for us. Ideal for a couple or a family. Location is perfect, easy access to metro, supermarket and patisserie close by. Nice area, feels safe. Would recommend it without hesitation and plan to go back. Newly refurbished bathroom great and lovely to be provided with coffee, washing powder, washing up liquid etc. They organised a taxi for us for the return journey back to the airport. WiFi great for finding out about things on in Paris and DVD great for children as only French TV.”
    Paul, United Kingdom (28.07.12)

    i-escape gift: a small welcome gift, such as a bottle of wine, fresh flowers or macaroons

    Read the full review and book Appartement Blanc >>

    Posted in City Breaks, Escape of the Week, Living like a local. Tagged , ,
MAR15

Just back from… Muxima, Portugal (with the Kid!)

 
  • Posted by Anna
    March 15, 2013

    Our Head of Bookings, Kate, spent a blissful week at Muxima eco-retreat with her husband and young son last summer. Here’s her account of this bucolic Algarve hideaway…

    I have to admit that I wasn’t wildly excited about this holiday. Having already experienced a rather underwhelming trip to Portugal previously, I was beginning to think it was a bit dull – all golf courses, marinas and McDonalds. But, I am delighted to report that my expectations were totally exceeded, and that Portugal is not boring at all! The wild, empty beaches of the western Algarve are beautiful, and my husband Chris, my son Flynn (then 22 months old) and I, had a very, very lovely holiday.

    Amoreira Beach

    The new, mostly empty motorway (beware of the tolls) made it a quick zip from Faro Airport to Muxima, in the little town of Aljezur. The moment we arrived we knew we had found a near perfect hotel for us: serene, rustic and rural with the beautiful scent of eucalyptus in the air. The dogs, Zora and Cora, bounded out to greet us and the lovely owners Sofia and Jorge weren’t far behind.

    Things at Muxima are deliberately casual and carefree – just the way we like it. No fancy luxury items like iPod docks or flatscreen TVs and best of all no light or noise pollution of any kind, so evenings are dark and silent!  We slept for 12 hours most nights and more importantly so did Flynn. Bliss.

    Muxima

    The 7 rooms and suites span 2 single-storey casas, and all are spotlessly clean and simply furnished: ethnic blankets, ornate lanterns, perhaps an old tin African road sign. Flynn loved the low Moroccan daybeds in our living room as he could easily clamber onto them to play with his books and cars. They kindly provided a box of building blocks for him, and we had a high chair and travel cot waiting for us in our room.

    The kitchenette is simple but adequate for knocking up a few basic suppers and lunches; you get a microwave, hob, kettle, fridge and basic utensils. We managed to cook dinner for our new friends and their son one night, so there is enough crockery for a group.

    Chaouen SuiteBreakfast was the highlight of my day. Served by the main house in an open-sided breakfast hut, you get a fabulous smorgasbord of fresh local bread, cheeses, homemade jams, yoghurts, fresh fruit, coffee, juice, eggs and a daily cake (we had pancakes, banana bread, sweet-potato cake and a few others over the week). It was a wonderful, sociable affair where we just sat and chatted for hours. We met all the guests who came and went over the course of our stay – a mix of friendly young couples and families with toddlers.

    The fab open-sided breakfast hut

    If you want to let your kids play and run about with abandon this is a great place to be. Of course, we kept an eye on Flynn the whole time but there was no worry about him damaging things or going where he shouldn’t. Jorge and Sofia have young children of their own and they understand what little ones are like.

    There are plenty of spots to relax

    The little play area with Wendy house, sandpit, car and various toys was a big hit with all the smaller guests. While older kids loved the swings, the old cork tree with its climbing ladder and the bikes for exploring the surrounding 28-hectares of forest. There are also some resident farm animals: a donkey, a big black pig and a goat, all of whom are very happy to be petted by kids and adults alike.

    My favourite feature was the eco-pool, which is just like a big pond complete with lily pads, dragon flies and frogs galore. Swimming with Flynn and watching his face when he saw all the frogs was priceless. This may not be to everyone’s taste but we enjoyed having a break from the norm. The water was crystal clear and a beautiful temperature, plus no red eyes from chlorine!

    The wonderful eco-pool

    The casa with the 3 suites, where we stayed, is on top of a hill just across from the main building, so it was really peaceful and private. I got fit climbing 80-odd steps each day with Flynn. There are little chairs, benches and hammocks hidden in amongst the eucalyptus and cork trees; great if you want to find a quiet shady spot to snooze or read.

    Sofia and Jorge are charming hosts who provided plenty of local information; we got lots of restaurant suggestions and even hand-drawn maps for nearby beaches.

    There are lots of shady spots to settle down in with a good book

    One of the best things about the location is that you are only a 10-15-minute drive from a variety of huge, empty beaches – Sofia claims that they aren’t even crowded in peak season. Though the waves are generally pretty big, the sand is clean and soft and there are kid-friendly options with lots of rock pools to explore. Most of the beaches have adjoining cafes, and we saw lots of surf schools, so there’s quite a young, fun vibe to the area.

    One of Sofia's "secret" beaches

    I honestly cannot explain how close to heaven Muxima was for us – it felt more like a self-catering property that happens to offer breakfast than hotel. If you want 24-hour service with a bar and kids club this won’t suit you, but the understated nature of this gentle place suited us down to the ground.

    In summary, a wonderful, wonderful hotel.

    Posted in Family Travel, Kids, Our Trips.... Tagged , ,
MAR13

Spotlight on… Amsterdam

 
  • Posted by Melissa
    March 13, 2013

    2013 is Amsterdam’s year. The coincidence of 10 historic milestones has prompted the city to arrange a 12-month programme of festivities ranging from art exhibitions and concerts, to processions, international sporting events and one-off celebrations.

    Why Go?

    A long-time favourite for European long-weekends, Amsterdam is one of those rare places that instantly puts its visitors at ease. Perhaps best known for its liberal attitude to soft drugs and its showpiece Red Light District, Amsterdam is nevertheless a sophisticated sort of place with neat 17th-century houses and more elegant canals than Venice. The average local is surprisingly straight-laced, the streets are litter-free and, as most people get around by bicycle, there’s there is a welcome lack of car fumes. With all the festivities of 2013 and bargain flights from London taking little more than an hour, there’s never been a better time to become an honorary ‘Dammer’.

    Highlights

    One of the easiest ways to appreciate Amsterdam’s distinctive architecture is to simply explore the city. Do as the ‘Dammers’ do and hire a bike! There’s a comprehensive cycle lane network and, if the main thoroughfares seem a little too intimidating, you can start off in Vondelpark’s 47 hectares of green space. Next, pedal over to Artis Royal Zoo (the oldest and best-known menagerie in The Netherlands) which holds over 900 animal species and is currently marking its 175th year. Many hotels have bicycles to borrow, so it couldn’t be easier to zip around the city.

    The iconic Amsterdam canals were awarded UNESCO heritage status in 2010 and 2013 marks their 400th birthday. Look out for dedicated exhibitions and celebrations, take a canal tour or explore via pedalo. Wintery weather often freezes the water-ways, so if you’re lucky you’ll see locals take to the ice for all manner of activities. To really immerse yourself in the canal culture, book a stay in trendy Canal House or live like a local at Water Home, a quirky Dutch canal boat in the Oud West quarter.

    Despite its compact size, Amsterdam is chock-a-block with museums and galleries, with Museumplein providing the densest concentration. The Van Gogh Museum, which holds the world’s largest collection of his work, is due to reopen this year – 160 years after his birth and 40 years since its genesis. (Until then, an extensive collection of Van Gogh’s works will be on display at the Hermitage Amsterdam.) Another key cultural player this year is the enormous Rijksmuseum: also due to reopen this spring, it will reveal 80 restored halls in which 8,000 items will narrate 800 years of Dutch art and history – totalling 1.5 kilometres of art.

    Culture vultures should also look out for the 225th anniversary of Felix Meritis and 100 years of the Frans Hals Museum, as well as the Anne Frank House, NEMO, the Sex Museum and the Stedelijk Museum. If you prefer audio to visual, the Concertgebouw (and its orchestra) will be celebrating 125 years of world-class, unique acoustics with a wide range of concerts and events throughout 2013.

    Amongst this jubilation, Amsterdam’s usual charms still entice. Spend a morning at the Bloemenmarkt (floating flower market) or head out of town to the world-famous Keukenhof Park – a magnificent display of tulips, hyacinths and daffodils occurs between March and May annually. Between sightseeing, duck into one of the city’s ‘cafés’: a term which covers a broad range of establishments, from traditional ‘brown bars’ and grand cafés to ‘coffee shops’ (which serve marijuana) and modern designer bars. Hotel V Frederiksplein and Misc eatdrinksleep are centrally located and make great bases for shorter trips, while Hotel Roemer and Hotel JL No76 each offer their own brand of urban sophistication.

    When to go

    Amsterdam is a year-round city. In winter, many coffee shops and bars have open fires; in summer, you can make the most of the outside spaces. Spring is popular as it’s the best time to see the world-famous flower displays, but with so many exciting events in 2013 you can tailor your timing to your interests. Key events include the 24H Amsterdam series (various weekends throughout 2013), the Chambres des Canaux city-wide exhibition (autumn), and the New Year’s Eve finale party on December 31st 2013.

    Our top tip

    Indigenous Dutch cuisine doesn’t have much of a reputation, but there are plenty of international restaurants and cafés to choose from. Vinkeles restaurant (at The Dylan Amsterdam) is popular thanks to its French-with-a-twist cuisine and Michelin star, but there’s often a waiting list so book ahead. Jamie Oliver fans should try Fifteen, the Amsterdam incarnation of Oliver’s project to inspire culinary excellence in disadvantaged young people.

    See our destination guide for more information on Amsterdam.

    Posted in Spotlight on.... Tagged , , , , , , ,
MAR11

Escape of the Week… The Talbot, Mells, Somerset

 
  • Posted by Anna
    March 11, 2013

    We were particularly excited to visit the recently opened Talbot Inn in the beautiful Somerset village of Mells, and rightly so. Owned by the same great team as The Beckford Arms, it is no surprise that beautiful style, excellent service and great food are all abundant at this gorgeous old country pub.

    The Talbot

    Cosy afternoons indoors are well-catered for by the pub’s library of novels, and Sunday night movies are shown on a vast TV in the sitting room. If you’re after some of that lovely, fresh country air, wellies are available for muddy walks and there are tables in the courtyard for alfresco dining on balmier days.

    Dining at The Talbot

    Rooms: The Small and Medium rooms are stylish and great value for money, while Family has 2 bedrooms (a double and a twin) with 2 bathrooms and space for a baby cot. The Very Large rooms are just magnificent: room 6 has an enormous four-poster bed, double-ended bath and a separate sitting area. No matter which category you opt for, all 8 rooms have the same selection of comforts: lovely Bramley toiletries, deep sofas, cosy duvets and blankets on seriously comfy beds, Twinings tea and proper coffee, hot-water bottles for chilly nights, and huge plasma TVs with a selection of free films.

    Very Large room at The Talbot

    Food: Breakfast is a cut above, with local breads and seasonal jams, as well as thyme-roasted mushrooms or hash browns with a duck egg. The dinner menu is based around local produce and changes daily. Think Hogs pudding with Bath chaps, followed by Cornish pollock ‘in a bag’ with leeks and fragrant tarragon, perhaps finished with pear and frangipane tart with vanilla crème fraiche or a selection of local cheeses. Traditional bar food is also available and, on weekends, don’t miss The Grill House where local venison and glazed pork ribs are roasted on open wood-fires, along with fennel-stuffed sea bream and whole chickens.

    Delicious food at The Talbot

    Top Tip: At certain times of year, the nearby town of Shepton Mallet hosts one of the largest antiques and flea markets in the country. The Mulberry outlet store is here, too (20 minutes’ drive).

    Press review:  “The Talbot’s new proprietors did up Wiltshire’s much publicised Beckford Arms in 2011. To that box-office hit, a Somerset sequel… Mells is an indecently pretty estate village, home to the Asquith family, with a 15th-century church where Siegfried Sassoon is buried…The inn, arranged around a cobbled stableyard, is a warren of snug rooms to eat in and imbibe Long Ashton cider, but the rear coach house is the piece de resistance. Within, a second bar and four long, polished tables which lie in wait before a giant indoor grill.”
    The Guardian, March 2013

    i-escape gift: a full-sized Bramley product of your choice

    Read the full review and book The Talbot >>

    Posted in Escape of the Week, New Hotels. Tagged , , ,
MAR08

Top tips for planning your trip

 
  • Posted by Anna
    March 8, 2013

    Here at i-escape, we all have a passion for exploring, and between us we’ve clocked up thousands of miles travelling to far-flung places as well as those on our doorstep. Don’t worry though: this isn’t a bragging blog post about all of the fantastic places we’ve visited, but a handy list of hints and tips on planning a trip that we’ve picked up along the way.

    Plan ahead. Rates aren’t usually better at the last minute, but there’s a good chance they’ll be lower if you book ahead. And remember that most of the smaller properties on i-escape get booked up in advance, too – so start planning that romantic break sooner rather than later, otherwise the only place you’ll be going is the doghouse!

    Book your next romantic break now – The Wheatsheaf Inn, Gloucestershire

    Book your next romantic break now – The Wheatsheaf Inn, Gloucestershire

    Avoid weekends (if you can). It’s much easier to find availability for a 2- or 3-night break in the week than over a weekend. And hotels often have midweek deals, so your wallet will be happy too.

    Hear about flight deals first. Sign up to receive airline newsletters (especially the budget airlines) as they often contain great deals. Armed with info on when tickets will go on sale for the next season, you can outsmart other parents by booking school holiday breaks early.

    Be ahead of the game to snap up this stylish villa in the school holidays – Seaview Villa Deia, Mallorca

    Be ahead of the game to snap up this stylish villa in the school holidays – Seaview Villa Deia, Mallorca

    Research, research, research. If you’re planning a chic city break, be sure to check when the big conferences and exhibitions are due to take place. These can push accommodation prices through the roof in places like Florence, Barcelona, London and Berlin.

    Check the charges. Check your chosen hotel’s taxes and service charges – particularly in Asia where they can really mount up, leaving you with less cash to spend on a cooling cocktail or two.

    Enjoy cocktails in the rooftop bar at Villa Samadhi, Kuala Lumpur

    Enjoy cocktails in the rooftop bar at Villa Samadhi, Kuala Lumpur

    Handpick your seat. A lot of airlines let you choose your seat and check-in online before your flight. SeatGuru.com is a nifty site where you plug in your airline and flight number to find out which are the good seats, which to avoid and why.

    Flights… Check. Hotel…Check. Visa… Errrrm… Check well in advance if you need a visa to travel and how long it will take to get hold of. There have been many tears and tantrums over ruined last-minute holidays to Goa where visas have been forgotten.

    Forget your visa and you won’t be lazing by this pool at Coco Shambhala, Goa

    Forget your visa and you won’t be lazing by this pool at Coco Shambhala, Goa

    Late riser? Forget B&B. If you’re more of a night owl than a lark, book an accommodation-only rate. Don’t pay an extra £20 per head for breakfast and feel you have to drag yourself out of bed before you’re ready. Sleep ‘til you want and grab a slap-up brunch at your leisure instead.

    Get annual car hire insurance cover. Excess on car-hire insurance has rocketed recently (often £500-1000), and so has the premium you pay to avoid it (as much as £15/day). Be a savvy traveller and buy annual cover — thisismoney.co.uk recommends www.protectyourbubble.com and www.insurance4carhire.com.

    Fly and drive. Road trip! Rather than fly into the centre of where you’re going, it might be cheaper to take a flight to a bigger hub and drive an hour or so to your destination.

    Do you have any handy advice to help ease the travel planning process? Add your best to the comments below. 

    Posted in Travel Tips. Tagged