No matter the occasion – a family getaway, a holiday with friends, or a romantic escape – Solmar’s portfolio offers something for every traveller. But if you’re really wanting to treat yourself and your loved ones, their Luxe Collection is the way to go. These handpicked properties set a new benchmark for indulgence, from exclusive locations in the world’s most sought-after destinations to unrivalled views and interiors that balance contemporary elegance with timeless sophistication. Think golden Spanish beaches, the rolling vineyards of Italy, or the turquoise waters of the Greek Islands – all with private pools, panoramic terraces, and the kind of serene seclusion you’ll remember long after your tan fades.

Villa Tierra Agua, with its sleek design, sweeping vistas, and luxurious touches, is a perfect example of what makes this collection so special. Tucked away on a sun-soaked Mediterranean hillside in the Costa del Sol, it combines striking architecture with the sort of home comforts that make you feel immediately settled — all with a view that could hold its own on any postcard rack.

The villa’s whitewashed walls and floor-to-ceiling glass windows effortlessly invite the outdoors in, perfectly framing sweeping vistas of Nerja’s rugged coastline. Upstairs, you’ll find your private pool glistening in the sun, with unrivalled views of the sea and horizon beyond. Complete with sun loungers, a dining area and your own BBQ, it’s the perfect spot to while away hours soaking up the sunshine.

Inside, the villa comfortably accommodates up to eight guests across four airy bedrooms, each with its own contemporary style. The open-plan living area is designed for both comfort and socialising, featuring plush seating and a fully equipped kitchen perfect for preparing self-catered feasts.

A stay in a Solmar Villa may not come with the trappings of a resort, but that’s entirely the point. The booking process is refreshingly straightforward, with Solmar’s personal service shining through from the first click. Once you arrive, you’ll find a detailed welcome guide waiting you for any local queries, and for extra peace of mind, 24/7 support is just a phone call away.

Whether you’re seeking coastal adventures or quiet afternoons in the shade, Villa Tierra Agua’s location delivers. A short drive connects you to local markets, sandy beaches, and restaurants where seafood is as fresh as the ocean breeze. And when the day’s exploring is done, returning to your own secluded haven feels like rediscovering a little slice of paradise.

Villa Tierra Agua captures the essence of a Solmar Villas stay: freedom without compromise, comfort without fuss, and a setting that makes every moment feel cinematic. For families, groups of friends, or anyone craving a stylish self-catered escape, it’s proof that sometimes, the most luxurious amenity is privacy itself.

Alexandra Davis

Seven nights in Villa Tierra Agua starts from £1,702 for up to eight sharing, villa only. Price based on October 2026 arrivals. Book online here.

To stay

The Westbury Hotel

Perfectly located between Grafton Street and the creative quarter of Dublin 2, The Westbury is an iconic address synonymous with understated luxury. Part of the Doyle Collection, this five-star property offers easy access to the city’s best shops, bars and cultural landmarks – though with its refined elegance and undeniable charm, you may find it hard to leave once you’ve stepped inside.

The rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed to offer a masterclass in comfort and elegance. Expect sumptuous fabrics, handcrafted Irish furnishings, and gleaming marble bathrooms, all curated to create a sense of relaxed luxury. From crisp Lissadell linens to the signature scent of Orla Kiely bath products, every detail has been carefully considered to ensure a stay here feels effortlessly indulgent.

For evening drinks, The Westbury’s in-house cocktail bar, The Sidecar, is a must. Recently named 2024 Hotel Cocktail Bar of the Year, this glamorous venue channels the glamour of 1930s Hollywood, thanks to its mirrored ceilings and plush leather banquettes, all set against a gorgeous art deco backdrop. The cocktails are as stylish as the surroundings, from perfectly shaken martinis to timeless classics, each served with a dash of old-world charm and impeccable attention to detail.

When it comes to dining, the hotel’s signature restaurant, WILDE, redefines traditional dining. Seamlessly blending 1930s elegance with lush greenery, it evokes the charm of alfresco dining in a sophisticated indoor setting. The result is a serene yet vibrant space, perfect for a long lunch or a special dinner, where seasonal Irish ingredients take centre stage.

To eat

Ryleigh’s Rooftop Grill

Overlooking the River Liffey, Ryleigh’s Rooftop Grill is a favourite for both locals and tourists thanks to its lively atmosphere, mouthwatering food and sweeping skyline views. Set atop The Mayson hotel, the panoramic terrace offers one of the best views in the city, making it a top spot for weekend brunch or a sunset dinner.

The menu celebrates seasonal Irish produce with hearty, flame-grilled classics like dry-aged Irish steak and grilled whole sea bass. Pair with a glass from their well-curated wine list or a gorgeous cocktail, and settle in for an unforgettable dining experience above the city lights.

Art Tea at The Merrion Hotel

Arguably the most lavish afternoon tea in the city, Art Tea at The Merrion Hotel treats guests to a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and homemade preserves, and miniature desserts inspired by the works of 19th and 20th century Irish masters such as J.B. Yeats, William Scott and Louis Le Brocquy. Each sweet creation is as visually striking as it is delicious and accompanied by The Merrion’s art collection catalogue to browse as you dine. Served in the hotel’s Drawing Rooms, this two-hour affair blends culinary finesse with artistic heritage, making it a must for lovers of both fine food and fine art.

Griolladh

For a quick bite that packs a serious punch, Griolladh (Irish for ‘grilled’) has taken the humble toastie to new, mouthwatering heights. What began as a modest food truck during lockdown has grown into one of Dublin’s most beloved casual dining spots, now with several locations across the city and a loyal fanbase to match.

Menu favourites include their trademark ham and cheese, caesar club and spicy beef toasties, but with fully customisable combinations, you can tailor yours to satisfy any craving. Once you’ve had one, you’ll understand why people are still dreaming about them long after the last bite.

To do

Trinity College and the Book of Kells

Step into Dublin’s most iconic academic institution, Trinity College, and visit one of the star attractions, the Book of Kells, an exquisite 9th century illuminated manuscript housed in the stunning Long Room Library – arguably one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. A must-see for culture lovers and architecture buffs alike.

Guinness Storehouse

No trip to Dublin is complete without raising a pint at the Guinness Storehouse. Housed inside a former fermentation plant at St. James’s Gate, the seven-storey experience tells the story of Ireland’s famous export through immersive exhibitions, brewing demos and interactive installations. End the journey with a freshly poured pint in the Gravity Bar, a sleek, glass-walled rooftop space offering 360-degree views across the Dublin skyline. 

St. Stephen’s Green

Right in the heart of the city, St. Stephen’s Green offers a peaceful retreat just steps from Grafton Street’s shopping buzz. Perfect for a morning coffee stroll, a relaxed lunch break, or simply soaking up the atmosphere on a sunny afternoon.

Traditional Irish pubs

It would be rude to visit Dublin and not immerse yourself in its world-famous pub culture. The Temple Bar district, with its cobbled streets and legendary pubs, is a riot of music, colour and energy. For a more authentic experience, venture beyond the tourist trail to discover traditional Irish pubs like The Long Hall, Toners, or Kehoe’s. Here you’ll find low ceilings, mahogany bars, live traditional music, and a genuinely warm Irish welcome. 

Alexandra Davis

The Elevated Sound Bath is part of the Lift 109 Lates series, a collection of special after-hours events that capitalise on the panoramic views observable from the elevated platform. Past activations included Sundown Sessions and Sky High Tequila Tasting. 

The sound bath aims to provide a respite from the city’s hustle and bustle, allowing participants to invite calm and creativity into their lives. During the October and November sessions, attendees will be immersed in the resonant tones of alchemy crystal singing bowls, designed to promote relaxation and mental clarity. The experience is enhanced by the breathtaking backdrop of London’s skyline at night, seen from the high vantage point of the chimney.

Ali explained: “Sound baths are an excellent way to calm the nervous system to make you feel rested and relaxed while gazing into the distance is restful for the eyes which may be fatigued from staring at screens all day.” The author further highlighted the distinctive combination of sound therapy and the mesmerizing cityscape as a potent mix for alleviating stress.

Over the past few years, Battersea Power Station has undergone significant regeneration, transforming the renowned Grade II* listed building into a vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood that attracts millions of visitors annually. The area now features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural activities, making it a burgeoning hub in the heart of London.

Opened at the end of 2022, the Lift 109 experience includes a multimedia exhibition set in the Art Deco Turbine Hall for a glimpse into the building’s industrial and cultural past, followed by an exciting ascent where rings of light and a soundscape reminiscent of rising energy guide the way up to 109m to the top of the Power Station’s northwest chimney for a breathtaking 360-degree vista of the London skyline. 

Providing a moment of peace and reflection amidst the urban environment, at a time when the city continues to embrace innovative wellness experiences, the Elevated Sound Bath stands out as a promising addition to London’s cultural calendar.

Food Desk

Photo credit: Lift 109 (feature image) and Joshua Atkins

Tickets for the Elevated Sound Bath are priced at £45, which includes the lift experience and a 45-minute sound bath session. For more information and to book tickets, visit Lift 109 website here.

The poem acts as the starting point for a programme designed to reconnect with the Basque community, with a focus on the region, the hotel and catering industry, restaurants, bars, gastronomic associations and prominent culinary figures. To achieve this, part of its activities will extend beyond the Kursaal, spotlighting local bars and restaurants and guiding congress delegates through tours of significant gastronomic associations.

As the longest-running gastronomy congress and a global benchmark for innovation, Gastronomika continues to transcend geographical boundaries. This year, it introduces the technical advisory committee, comprising renowned chefs like Elena Arzak, Eneko Atxa, Andoni Luis Aduriz, Aitor Arregi and Paulo Airaudo as well as international cooks such as Nieves Barragán and Aitor Zabala. A new founding committee has also been established, featuring notable figures including Juan Mari Arzak, Pedro Subijana and Martín Berasategui, further enhancing the congress’s dedication to culinary excellence.

Portugal as the guest of honour

This year, the festival shines a spotlight on Portuguese cuisine, showcasing its dynamism and innovation. José Avillez, the acclaimed chef behind Lisbon’s two Michelin-starred Belcanto, returns to Gastronomika after a seven-year hiatus. His presence underscores the significant moment Portuguese culinary arts are experiencing on the global stage. Avillez leads a delegation of celebrated Portuguese chefs including João Oliveira from Vista in Portimao, Rodrigo Castelo from Ó Balcão in Santarém, João Rodrigues of Canalha in Lisbon, Ana Moura from Lamelas in Porto Covo and Marlene Vieira from her eponymous restaurant in the capital.

International guests

The programme features an impressive lineup of international chefs from cities celebrated for their culinary contributions, including Copenhagen, Lima, London and Florence. Kristian Bauman from Koan in Copenhagen brings his unique blend of Nordic and Asian culinary styles. French chef Fabien Ferré, who achieved three Michelin stars in record time at La Table du Castellet, will showcase his skill in preparing seafood and vegetables with a style reminiscent of Matisse’s Provencal light.

Making his first appearance at Gastronomika, British chef Andrew Wong will share how he has innovatively adapted regional Chinese cuisines to the tastes of London, maintaining authenticity while incorporating modern twists. Additionally, Karime López of Osteria Gucci da Massimo Bottura, the first Mexican woman to earn a Michelin star, and Sebastian Frank of Horváth in Berlin, will demonstrate their deeply personal cooking styles, which reflect their rich heritage and personal histories.

From Latin America, Pía León and Virgilio Martínez will showcase their passion for Peru’s biodiversity, bringing ingredients and dishes that highlight their culinary heritage to San Sebastian. León, renowned for her inventive use of native ingredients, and Martínez, chef of Central, awarded the top spot on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list 2023, exemplify the pinnacle of Peruvian cuisine. Joining them from Chicago are Tim Flores and Genie Kwon, chefs and owners of Kasama, the first Filipino restaurant to earn a Michelin star. Their unique establishment functions as a bakery by day and a restaurant by night, offering a creative mix of Filipino flavours and modern dining in Chicago’s East Ukraine Village neighbourhood.

The Spanish culinary elite

Gastronomika will host a prominent assembly of Spain’s top chefs, including Oriol Castro, Eduard Xatruch, and Mateu Casañas from Disfrutar in Barcelona. Recently acclaimed as the best restaurant in the world by the 50 Best list, Disfrutar has also been awarded three Michelin stars, marking it as a pinnacle of global culinary achievement. They will be joined by culinary giants such as Joan Roca of El Celler de Can Roca in Girona, Pedro Subijana of Akelarre in San Sebastian, and Eneko Atxa of Azurmendi in Larrabetzu, alongside the likes of Elena Arzak and Andoni Luis Aduriz. The event will also feature rising stars making their debut, such as Pedrito Sánchez of Bagá in Jaén, and recent Revelation Chef Award winners Jorge Muñoz and Sara Peral of OSA in Madrid. This gathering will not only showcase Spain’s rich culinary traditions but also highlight the innovative spirit driving its contemporary gastronomy.

Integrating AI in cuisine

Physicist Eneko Axpe, known for his collaborations with NASA and his academic role at Harvard, will demonstrate the intersection of science and gastronomy. His presentation will focus on how interdisciplinary approaches can foster innovative and sustainable culinary practices. Axpe is scheduled to provide a live demonstration on the use of artificial intelligence in high-end cooking, working alongside Andalusian chef Juanlu Fernández. This session exemplifies the spirit of innovation that defines Gastronomika and the Basque region, home to the world-renowned Basque Culinary Center, a leading hub for food research.

Focus on tavern culture and community engagement

2024 introduces the first Taverns and Tavernkeepers Forum, aimed at highlighting the pivotal role these establishments play in the local gastronomy scene. The forum will feature discussions led by some of the most prominent figures in the industry, alongside the World Tripe Championship and the San Sebastian Gastronomika Fish Soup Championship, which seek to celebrate and elevate traditional dishes.

The awards

The Gastronomika Awards will pay tribute to industry veterans and new talents. Pedro Subijana, a stalwart of Basque cuisine, will be honoured for his decades of culinary innovation. Mariano García, a respected winemaker, will be recognised for his contributions to the wine industry, particularly his work enhancing the reputation of Ribera del Duero wines.

Additionally, American journalist Lisa Abend will receive the Pau Albornà i Torras Prize for Gastronomic Journalism, celebrating her extensive reporting on European gastronomy and her impactful contributions to culinary literature.

An expansive culinary exhibition

The congress will also feature an extensive fair occupying the entire space of the Kursaal, with over 150 companies participating. This exhibition will provide a platform for professionals to showcase emerging trends, products, and technologies in the culinary world.

As Gastronomika 2024 approaches, it promises not only to showcase culinary artistry and innovation but also to foster a deeper connection between the culinary industry and the broader community, reinforcing its position as a key event in the international culinary calendar.

Food Desk

Gastronomika takes place in San Sebastian, Spain from 7^th until 10^th October 2024.

To stay

Canopy by Hilton Cannes

Occupying prime position on the corner of Boulevard Jean Hibert, moments away from the iconic Croisette and the Palais des Festivals, Canopy by Hilton Cannes puts you right in the heart of the city’s vibrant atmosphere. After recently undergoing extensive renovations and a change of owners, the 129-room hotel officially re-opened its doors last year, offering guests a gorgeous Mediterranean-inspired retreat.

With panoramic views over the port, La Croisette and the Lérins Islands, the hotel takes its inspiration from its unbeatable location with chic nautical interiors by acclaimed designer Ramy Fischer. One of the hotel’s biggest draws is its rooftop restaurant and cocktail bar Marea, where you can marvel at the breathtaking 360-degree panorama while enjoying a selection of small plates, seafood dishes and exquisitely made cocktails.

Executive Chef Alexander Douglas Burger has devised a menu to showcase the best of Cannes, with dishes like coconut-infused roasted scallops, charcoal-grilled New York Strip Black Angus and smoked harissa beef tartare just some of the standout offerings. While the selection of wines and spirits has been entrusted to Les BienHeureux, the French group of brewers and distillers. As lovers of mixology, the restaurant’s cocktail menu is inspired by the region’s treasures such as orange blossom and lavender. Open seven days a week, a DJ cranks the atmosphere up a notch from late afternoon to offer diners a fun yet intimate atmosphere.

The renovated rooms and suites offer guests comfort and sophistication, with muted hues and plush furnishings creating a contemporary aesthetic that compliments rather than detracts from the unbeatable seaside views outside. After working closely with renowned art experts and collectors, each room features the works of emerging artists to pay tribute to the region’s artistic heritage and cinematic roots.

Guests can enjoy the hotel’s spa which includes an indoor-outdoor heated swimming pool, relaxing whirpool jacuzzi, five treatment cabins, hammam, Japanese bath and sauna. While the experienced team are on hand to offer an extensive selection of face and body treatments, such as full body massages and energising facials. 

To eat

Miramar Plage

When it comes to beach clubs, you will be hard pressed to find anywhere as chic and timeless as Miramar Plage. Guests can experience all it has to offer both day and night with the restaurant open for lunch and dinner, while sun loungers on the beach can be enjoyed but are not available for reservation in advance. Chef Valerian Mangione is behind the exceptional cuisine on offer here, with influences from across the world including Latin America, the Mediterranean and Asia. 

There’s a firm emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients; from the raw seafood bar, diners can savour the taste of Galician octupus carpaccio and seabass ceviche while the restaurant’s signature Cognac flambéed truffle rigatoni in a wheel of Parmesan cheese is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. When it comes to meat options, their filet mignon from Germany is exceptionally tender and well-seasoned, as are the roasted lamb chops and beef tataki. 

Throughout the summer months, the restaurant offers specially designed set menus to coincide with one of the most prestigious Pyrotechnic Art Festivals in the world, hosted in the Bay of Cannes. Each performance on the seafront attracts more than 100,000 visitors and a jury of judges to analyse the creative displays.

Miramar Plage isn’t short of its own entertainment either, with live music and unforgettable performances from talented acrobats and dancers to keep you entertained throughout the night. Staff are attentive, professional and exude genuine warmth to make you feel welcomed from the moment you arrive. With a stellar reputation, this is one beach club and restaurant that is head and shoulders above the rest. If you want to experience the epitome of Riviera elegance, then a night here is truly worth every penny. 

Lucia Cannes

As the newest addition to Cannes’ beach club scene, Lucia Cannes officially opened its doors on La Croisette earlier this year. Crafted by the renowned hospitality company Nikki Beach Global, Lucia Cannes is inspired by radiance and sunshine, as seen in its lively colours, intricate patterns and bold designs. Partnering with English-Italian artist Chiara Perano, custom illustrations bring to life the vibrant hues of the Amalfi coast and have been adorned throughout the restaurant from sun umbrellas to glassware and menu covers.

With a menu that focuses on Cuisine Du Soleil, Executive Chef Yvon Mbiavanga delivers a menu that draws on the vibrant flavours found in Mediterranean regions blessed with ample sunlight and rotates seasonally in line with this ethos. Iberian Bellota cured ham with crushed tomatoes and toasted bread is one of their most popular starters, with pan-seared seabream and free range chicken supreme on offer for mains. Meanwhile the restaurant’s beverage menu features a range of specially designed cocktails, blending herbs, liquors and aromatics to find new and delicious flavour pairings. 

Café Crème

For a gorgeous brunch spot, the Californian-inspired Café Crème gives diners a selection of authentic brunch dishes available throughout the day. Whether you’re in the mood for something healthy like avocado toast or salmon and cream cheese bagels, or their indulgent mac and cheese and spicy fried chicken burgers, there’s dishes for every mood and time of the day. Detox ginger shots, creatively made mocktails and sweet treats like delicious carrot cake complete the menu. 

Alexandra Davis

This inaugural event in Madrid continues the festival’s tradition of culinary excellence, where chefs abandon conventional kitchen tools to cook solely with fire and wood. Set against the backdrop of the university’s botanical gardens, the festival aims to replicate the intimate and communal atmosphere that has characterized its Portuguese editions.

The line-up

The festival will feature 20 prominent chefs, including Janaína Torres from São Paulo’s A Casa do Porco and Tekuna Gachechiladze, a trailblazer in modern Georgian cuisine. From Spain, taleneted chefs like Lucía Freitas of A Tafona and Javi Estévez of La Tasquería will showcase their culinary prowess. These chefs will engage in live cooking, offering festival-goers a chance to interact and gain insights into their creative processes.

Complementing the culinary offerings, the festival’s music lineup will include a variety of acts known for their ability to blend different genres, creating a dynamic festival environment. Each day will see performances by six artists, enhancing the gastronomic experience with their unique sounds.

In partnership with Turismo de Portugal and Turismo de Cascais, the event also highlights the participation of well-known Portuguese chefs such as Henrique Sá Pessoa, of two-Michelin-starred Alma, and Vasco Coelho Santos. Additionally, the festival will feature bites from 12 acclaimed restaurants in Madrid, each presenting dishes that resonate with the festival’s theme of fire-based cooking.

The Chefs on Fire Madrid programme 2024

The festival will take place at the Real Jardín Botánico Alfonso XIII, located on the grounds of the Universidad Complutense de Madrid (Ciudad Universitaria metro), and ticket options range from single-day entries to comprehensive two-day passes.

Food Desk

For further information and to book your tickets visit the Chefs on Fire website here. Follow their Instagram @chefsonfire.es.

A festival born from a feast among friends

Chefs on Fire originated from a challenge at a birthday party in Alentejo, where Gonçalo Castel-Branco, the event’s producer, prepared an ambitious meal for 60 guests with minimal resources. This unique experience sparked the idea for a festival where professional chefs could showcase their skills under similar conditions. Today, the festival promotes intimacy, community, and minimal environmental impact, mirroring the atmosphere of those first summer evenings spent cooking with friends by a campfire.

What to expect at Chefs on Fire 2024

Building on the success of the 2023 edition, the festival boasts an impressive programme. Each day, attendees can experience 15 different culinary offerings and ten beverage options. The lineup of chefs includes Arnaldo Azevedo of Michelin-starred Vila Foz Hotel and Pedro Pena Bastos of Cura, among others. Each chef will present dishes cooked exclusively with fire, a hallmark of the festival. The music lineup complements the experience with performances by Portuguese artists like Tatanka & Miguel Araújo and Capitão Fausto.

The essence of Cascais and Portuguese cuisine

Cascais is not just a scenic fishing village; it’s a culinary hotspot that reflects the rich gastronomic heritage of Portugal. Portuguese cuisine is known for its diversity, use of fresh local ingredients, and a penchant for flavors enhanced by the country’s maritime history. At Chefs on Fire, these traditions are celebrated and elevated, providing a taste of Portugal’s best in a festive, communal atmosphere.

The Chefs on Fire Cascais programme 2024

Chefs on Fire is cementing its reputation as the ultimate contemporary, environmentally conscious festival. Conveniently reachable from the UK, it promises a sophisticated and tranquil experience set against the picturesque backdrop of Cascais, appealing to lovers of food, music and simply a great time.

Food Desk

For further information and to book your tickets visit the Chefs on Fire website here. Follow their Instagram @chefsonfire.pt.

As we approach the station, the salty sea air greets us, accompanied by a fresh breeze and the cries of seagulls piercing through the humidity. A quick ferry ride to the other side of the harbour brings us to Haslar Marina, where among elegant yachts and British Navy heavyweights is The Lightship – a high-end floating restaurant that deserves to be a destination spot.

The venue, a transformed historic 1940s ex-Trinity House light vessel, has been lovingly restored yet retains the spirit of its era. It gently rocks on the water whenever another cruise liner passes by. The mid-deck is a charming, intimate space with an à la carte menu, live music, and an extensive wine list. Meanwhile, the top deck provides panoramic views of the harbour, the slender, sardine-like Spinnaker Tower, and the old medieval town where one of the Victorian era’s greatest novelists was born.

Guests can relax and enjoy cocktails and fresh oysters without choosing between the two decks. You can watch the red sun dissolve into the water’s surface while sipping a strawberry whisky sour on the top deck, then head downstairs to enjoy the sounds of a beautiful woman in a sparkling dress singing into a vintage jazz microphone.

The mid-deck restaurant has an ever-changing seasonal menu designed by chef patron Jamie Fegan, inspired by The Lightship’s surroundings. They use fresh, locally caught fish, shellfish, and seasonal produce. No, they won’t bring you heirloom tomatoes with a drizzle of oil on them, but the menu showcases dishes that let the ingredients speak for themselves: South Coast Halibut with Clams, Lardon & Saffron Cream, Fruit de Mer with Lobster, Langoustines, King Prawns, Oysters, Smoked Salmon & Cockles and Lobster Frites with Hollandaise.

Some courses follow the well-established trend of reinventing classics in a contemporary style. Take the Squid Carbonara: it replaces pasta with squid for a simple yet exciting twist, particularly when paired with Terra de Lobos Sauvignon Blanc. South Coast Scallop with an Angel Hair Filo and Lobster Bisque is angelically delicate, moderately crunchy and harmonic when paired with Ashling Park Still Rosé. British Pork with Nectarine, Cider Cream and Rosti is not mindblowing, but does it have to be? It is soft, delicately sweet and goes perfectly with Bianai Blanco Rioja 2022. The Lightship also boasts an impressive range of drinks from local producers, including English sparkling wine from The Grange, a range of locally produced wines from Ashling Park Estate, Mermaid Gin, Solent Spirit rum and, of course, beer. After a couple of glasses, you might notice the rocking of the ship a bit more.

If you decide to stay overnight, The Creek in Portsmouth Harbour has cosy yet luxurious rooms with views of the bay and the Hampshire coastline. Have dinner at the Lightship, and then take a short walk to your hotel. The path winds past rows of yachts swaying gently on the water. Under the moonlit sky, the curved Spinnaker Tower casts its glow across the bay, and the primal, wonderfully dark aroma of the sea, shells, and driftwood follows you everywhere while you walk to your room on the wooden gangway. 

Visit Portsmouth for the first time or rediscover it through the Lightship – a unique, straightforward, and genuine experience that celebrates the area’s maritime heritage with authenticity and charm.

Elizaveta Kolesova

For further information and to book a table visit The Lightship website here.

Carey, celebrated for her extensive contribution to pop music and beyond, has sold over 200 million albums worldwide, making her one of the most successful artists in the history of the genre. Her influence extends into hip hop, notably through her pioneering collaboration with rappers on the hit song Fantasy, making her the first woman to debut a single at number one on the US charts. The artist’s impressive career includes a streak of studio albums and singles topping the charts, earning her the title of the best-selling singer of the 1990s. Carey’s vocal range and talent have garnered her widespread admiration, leading to numerous awards, including 5 Grammy Awards, 18 World Music Awards, and 31 Billboard Music Awards from 89 nominations.

Additionally, Carey is affectionately known as the Queen of Christmas, thanks to her iconic 1994 hit All I Want for Christmas Is You, which continues to dominate the charts each holiday season. Her achievements were recognised by TIME magazine, voting her the most popular singer ever in 2014, and the following year, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The Gala Night at Hotel Cala di Volpe is set to offer an unforgettable experience combining the culinary talents of executive chefs Maurizio Locatelli and Michele Bacciu with a rich programme of entertainment, culminating in Carey’s exclusive concert. This event not only highlights the hotel’s prestigious status but also reinforces its identity as a premier destination for luxury and entertainment in the Mediterranean.

The editorial unit

For further information visit the Hotel Cala di Volpe website here.

How does one get to Paris? Flying is always an option, yet it can often be quicker, more convenient, and more enjoyable to take the Eurostar, which travels from London St Pancras to Gare du Nord, Paris in just two hours and 19 minutes. For those not residing in London – or those in London who simply wish to treat themselves – finding accommodation in the city may be desirable.

When people come to visit London, they often choose to stay in the centre. While there is much to see and do around Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square, a true feel for the city is rarely captured in its most touristy areas, which are crowded, expensive, and stressful. Staying in a location that boasts character and Olympic vibes, and is only seven minutes by train from St Pancras, might offer a more authentic experience.

Where to stay in London: Stratford

Once a derelict, largely forgotten former industrial hub with a lack of infrastructure and an abundance of contaminated soil, Stratford in East London was transformed in anticipation of the 2012 games. Upon exiting Stratford tube station, the first sight is Westfield shopping centre, an ideal location for exploring high street stores. However, if crowds become overwhelming, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park offers a nearby escape to nature.

This large urban green space now offers local residents 560 acres of parkland in which to walk, run, cycle and be at one with nature, is home to the London Aquatic Centre (where it’s possible to swim in two 50-metre Olympic standard swimming pools). When visiting the park, it’s also a good idea to take a look at what’s on at the London Stadium (which hosts a range of music gigs and sporting events) or simply walk around the fields and watch bees pollinating poppies and lavender. Take a turn out of the park and you’ll end up in Hackney Wick with its trendy canal bars, thrift shops and elite vegan food.

For a skyline view of London from the UK’s tallest sculpture, visitors can ascend Anish Kapoor’s Orbit Tower in the centre of the park. Those daring enough might also enjoy sliding down. Additionally, fans of ABBA can visit the purpose-built arena in Pudding Mill to experience the iconic ABBA Voyage.

Which hotel to book

Stratford is home to The Gantry Hotel, conveniently located literally one minute away from Stratford International station. Opening in 2021 as part of the Hilton Curio collection, The Gantry offers 291 rooms across 18 floors, along with a variety of restaurants and bars. Among these, the Union Social allows for a remote work atmosphere while offering a menu that features an eclectic collection of foods from around the world, including exciting takes on classic East End cuisine.

The Gantry features a unique industrial chic design, and the attention to detail is impressive: the windows, for instance, cleverly echo the appearance of train tracks. The Coupe Bar, with its smoke-free coal fires, serves colourful cocktails adorned with flowers and fruits. Guests choosing to stay in a deluxe room on the 16^th floor are treated to expansive views stretching to the countryside through large rectangular windows. The beds are so comfortable it’s hard to leave and the industrial-style artwork (think cogs and clocks) seamlessly blend luxury with an appreciation for Stratford’s industrial past.

Where to stay in Paris: Montparnasse

All set for the London trip, but what about upon arriving in Paris? It’s a large city with many unique and exciting neighbourhoods to explore. Montparnasse, located in the south, is a leafy part of town where visitors can get away from the crowds and get a sense of what it’s like to live in the French capital. Montparnasse also has an artistic past – and it’s the one place where one can truly see Paris from above and below.

What to do in Montparnasse

Photos: Sophia Moss

Montparnasse is home to the Montparnasse Tower Panoramic Observation Deck, Paris’ only real skyscraper in the centre, which offers 360 degree views of the entire city, as well as a very instagrammable observation deck complete with a “I heart Paris” photo op and a glamorous restaurant where I’m sure many a person has been proposed to against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower.

The catacombs are also close by, where an audio guide can be obtained before descending 131 stairs. From there, a journey through dimly lit tunnels leads to the empire of the dead. Rows of bones and skulls line the walls, some with holes, some covered in moss, some belonging to famous people and others to those long forgotten. The catacombs are not for the claustrophobic and it’s not the lightest of afternoons, but visiting them offers a deeper understanding of city’s history and fosters a greater appreciation for humanity. Indeed, we really are all the same under our skin.

Which hotel to book for the 2024 Olympics

After coming to terms with mortality in the catacombs, it’s time to find a place to rest and eat. Niepce Paris is a boutique hotel in the heart of Montparnasse. Named after the inventor of photography Nicéphore Niépce in keeping with the artistic roots of this district. The hotel features many black-and-white photos throughout the hallways and rooms which explore feminism and femininity. Some are by Janine Niépce, a candid photojournalist who documented the women’s liberation movement in the 70s.

La Verriere, the hotel’s restaurant, offers an elegant French dining experience with immaculate presentation and a fabulous collection of wines personally chosen by the manager. Niepce Paris also offers a complimentary breakfast, with everything from baguettes and probiotic yoghurts to vegetable rice and bacon to suit a range of appetites.

Sophia Moss

For further information about Eurostar services visit the website here. For the hotel stays, visit the Gantry’s website for London and Niepce’s website for Paris.