There’s always something exciting about travelling to a new destination – regardless of whether it’s for business or pleasure. A long-haul flight however can cast a shadow on that excitement - the thought of spending long hours breathing dry, recycled air, not moving enough or sitting in an uncomfortable position and eating unhealthy and bland airplane food doesn’t sound very appealing, does it? However, the products and gadgets that you take on board a long-haul flight can make a massive difference to your flying experience. Here’s Finance Monthly’s list of essentials to pack for a long flight to make sure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready for an important meeting or a day of exploration.
Luggage
Why limit yourself to a small bag when you can bring a carry-on on board? You’ll have enough room for all of the items that you want to have with you, including your laptop or tablet, a book, headphones and documents, without worrying about any space restrictions. Perfect for both men and women with its three colour palettes to choose from, Anthler’s Juno Metallic Cabin Suitcase is the answer to everyone’s luggage dreams – super light with four 360° rotation wheels and optimal interior function. The Polypropylene suitcase has a sleek and timeless design and comes with TSA-approved fixed combination to keep your valuables safe. Travel in style and purchase the entire Anthler Juno Metallic set, which also includes a medium and a large suitcases.
Passport Holder
Keeping your passport, credit cards and money in a safe place is absolutely vital when travelling and a passport holder is the perfect solution as it allows you to keep everything in one place. Coming in five different colours and including a transparent sleeve for an ID and additional credit card slots, Maxwell Scott’s classy Prato passport holder is the perfect travel accessory. Handmade in Italy using the finest full-grain local leather, the passport holder is designed to withstand many years of adventuring across the globe. For a more personal touch, you can have your initials embossed on the front page – and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want that!
Portable Battery Charger
As fun as watching a movie (or two) during a long-haul flight could be, being up in the air can also be a great time to catch up on emails and do some work on your tablet or phone. And considering the amount of electronic devices that we all tend to travel with in 2018, bringing a portable battery charger with you to the airport is compulsory. Revive a host of gadgets with the high-capacity Juice® Power Station which can restore two devices at once, providing over six charges for a smartphone after one single charge or one full charge for a tablet. With its compact and clean design, Juice® Power Station is not just a travel necessity, but an item worth carrying in your bag at all times.
Sleeping Mask
Sleeping on the plane, at the right time, is the one thing that could help you beat the dreaded jet lag, but not everyone finds it easy to drift off in an environment of screaming children and flight attendants passing by every ten minutes. Satosense’s 25mm pure mulberry silk eye masks, which also come with earplugs, promise to help you fall asleep easily. Satosense’s high-quality silk promotes a long, deep and relaxing sleep and promises to contribute to a healthy, natural glow. Wake up feeling refreshed and ready for everything that your destination has to offer.
Wellbeing Kit
And if you require more than a sleeping mask and earplugs to relax and switch off your mind, Ayurveda Pura’s Calm Your Mind kit guarantees to do exactly what its name suggests. Made from 100% natural, organic ingredients, the De-Stress Calming Tea, Magic Food Mix and skin toner were created to promote physical and mental wellbeing, based on the principles of Ayurveda – the 5000-year-old Indian holistic science of health. Each ingredient in all three products has been carefully chosen and expertly blended to balance the Vata (air and space) Dosha or Ayurvedic body type for the wellbeing of both your mind and body. Whether it’s when you’re travelling or in your everyday life, remember to find the time to de-stress and unwind after a long day. The Calm Your Mind kit is the perfect solution for busy people who need some help with this.
Health Shots
Let’s be frank, even when flying First or Business class, airplane food can be less than satisfactory. Reheated fried rice and a dry roll with butter doesn’t sound that nutritious and wholesome, does it? Airplanes are also plagued with bacteria and viruses and studies have shown that more than one in five people who travel on planes suffer from a cold or the flu after the flight. So what’s the best way to stay healthy on a flight and get enough vitamins and nutrients despite the bad food? Here come the shots – the healthy Bumblezest shots! Packed full of functional superfoods, Bumblezest’s carefully crafted drinks come in 90ml glass bottles which makes them perfect for putting in your hand luggage and enjoying during your long-haul flight.
P’URE Papaya Care
Another way to avoid getting ill on the plane is dabbing a little P’URE Papaya Care vapour balm under your nose to stop that heady feeling, and to help feign off airborne bacteria and the bugs that circulate in cabin air. 100% natural, vegan-friendly and cruelty-free, the P’URE Papaya Care vapour balm is a gentle warming blend of traditional Australian essential oils and herbs, containing no menthol, petroleum or mineral oil. To soothe and protect your lips from the dry plane air, try the P’URE Papaya Care paw paw and calendula lip balm.
Skincare
We all know the ‘stay hydrated by drinking a lot of water’ rule but our skin definitely needs a bit more than just water to look and feel moisturised and glowing – especially at 35,000ft. Salvage your skin during the long flight with Bioderma’s Hydrabio Gel-Crème, which promises to smooth your skin’s texture and leave it feeling hydrated and soft.
And don’t forget to pay close attention to your eyes. Institut Esthederm’s Intensive Hyaluronic Eye Serum forms a continuous film at the surface of the skin that retains water in the epidermis and limits trans-epidermal water loss, whilst stimulating the natural production of dermal hyaluronic acid for a long-lasting filling effect. With its 15ml bottle and zamak precisison applicator with a cooling effect, this eye serum is an unmissable part of your in-flight skincare routine.
And most importantly – face masks
Face masks have become acceptable in-cabin ‘wear’ these days. Even better, used over your freshly applied skincare, they ensure as much product as possible gets into your skin. Pack your Institut Esthederm’s Intensive Hyaluronic Mask with its three different types of hyaluronic acid that intensively stimulate its natural production. Or if you prefer a sheet mask, try Patchology’s On The Fly travel kit that includes a hydrate sheet mask, illuminate sheet mask, rejuvenating eye gels containing caffeine and hydrating lip gels.
Hairbrush
Every woman needs a hairbrush for travelling - especially for long-haul flights. With its compact design and small mirror, Tangle Angel’s PRO compact is the best solution for detangling on the go.
With views of both the Mediterranean Sea and the Sierra Blanca mountains from almost every corner of the town and an astonishing 320 days of sizzling sunshine, Marbella is sought after by the most rich and famous from across the globe. Earlier this year, Nobu opened its latest venture set on the Andalusian town’s glitzy Golden Mile. And despite Nobu Hotel Marbella’s central location, its impressive chic restaurants, bar and club scene will make you feel like you’re in the heart of the action without having to leave the hotel’s grounds. 
Stepping into Nobu Hotel Marbella, you instantly feel the weight and stress of your usual daily life left behind as you escape into a very private and exclusive haven that seems to offer everything you could possibly desire. The hotel shares grounds with one of Marbella’s original luxury resorts – Puente Romano, which means that guests of Nobu can make the most of all the Puente Romano facilities, which include a range of restaurants and cafes, three swimming pools, a world-class tennis club (where you can often bump into Novak Djokovic), the Six Senses Spa, lush walkways surrounded by tropical greenery and an elegant beach bar and restaurant with beach club sun loungers and day beds.
Perfectly blending traditional Andalusian architecture with Nobu’s signature SoCal-meets-Asia interiors, each of the 81 rooms and suites in Nobu Hotel Marbella is beautifully decorated – think clean lines, earth tones, natural fabrics and laid-back, refined luxury. Most of the rooms gaze out over the lively central plaza and its electric restaurants and bars, but you can also stay in a quieter block within the Puente Romano estate while still being just a short walk away from the party. With a tranquil balcony overlooking a superbly maintained garden, our room felt miles away from the brimming-with-life square, allowing you the option to disappear from the rest of the world without sacrificing all of Nobu’s luxuries. Bathrooms are spacious and airy, with sublime rainfall showers, his-and-hers sinks and luxe Natura Bissé toiletries. As we’re getting ready for dinner in our Nobu kimonos, two different members of staff bring us a glass of the ‘cocktail of the night’, as well as a slice of an incredibly gooey and decadent brownie. What could be a better way to start the night?
Nobu Marbella’s centrepiece is the hotel’s La Plaza courtyard and its exhilarating variety of restaurants and bars. And it’s not just the unmissable world-class Nobu Restaurant serving exquisite Japanese cuisine mixed with local influences (we’re still obsessing over their padrón peppers with miso dressing and sesame seeds as well as the must-try black cod miso) that makes the plaza a foodie’s dream. In addition, you can also dine in Michelin-starred Chef Dani Garcia’s restaurant, indulge in hearty Italian dishes, freshly made Thai specialties or mouth-watering tapas in a cosy brasserie - all whilst gentle Spanish guitar flows from Nobu Lounge at the centre of the courtyard. Finish the night off with a sake cocktail or head straight into the exclusive La Suite nightclub for a night of dancing.
During the day, laze around Nobu Hotel Marbella’s peaceful pool, sip on fresh coconut water or a delicious cocktail (holidays are for day drinking, aren’t they?) and order a poke bowl from the pool menu, which charming waiters will bring to your sunbed.
Offering a complete experience, Nobu Hotel Marbella’s all about the finer things in life and is the perfect place for all those who could use a break from buzzing iPhones, dull boardrooms and cranky clients. Work hard, play harder.
Nobu Hotel Marbella is part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Hotel rooms start from £521 per night including breakfast.
To book your stay, please visit: www.slh.com/nobumarbella
Located in the Heart of Hungary’s historic capital city, The Corinthia Hotel Budapest is one of the most luxurious hotels in the region and is within walking distance of several of the city’s most exciting attractions.
Formerly known as the Grand Hotel Royal, much of the building was sadly destroyed in the 1956 Hungarian Revolution and despite re-opening its doors in the 1960s, the Grand Royal remained a shadow of its former self. That was until new owners, Corinthia Hotels, started an extensive restoration project in the 1990s that would retain the best of the old, while sensitively adding the new. Once restored to its original glory, the newly named Corinthia Hotel Budapest re-opened its doors as a luxury property in 2003. While the gracious frontage, extravagant marble floors, the amazing sweeping staircase and breathtaking, six-storey Atrium preserved from the original building offer glorious hints of a bygone age, the levels of comfort and convenience are all reassuringly up-to-date. Over a century of heritage has been perfectly restored with no expense spared for a new generation of travelers.
Rooms
Corinthia Hotel Budapest boasts a staggering 439 rooms, including 31 suites and 26 Royal Residences. I was lucky enough to stay in the spacious and luxurious Junior Suite. The room featured a bedroom with the most comfortable king size bed, an expansive living area, an impressive marble bathroom, comfortable sofas and all the luxuries that you would expect from a premium hotel including satellite TV, complimentary Wi-Fi and a Nespresso coffee machine.
Dining
From fine dining, to a casual meal, you will be truly spoilt for choice when dining at the Corinthia Hotel Budapest where every palate is catered for in their four lavish restaurants.
During my stay at the Corinthia Hotel Budapest, I chose to eat in the The Brasserie and Atrium restaurant which offers delicious International and Hungarian dishes. It is an ideal place for both business and casual meetings. The restaurant is open all day, beginning with the morning buffet breakfast, through to lunch and then á la carte dinner. Uniquely in Hungary, on every Sunday, the Brasserie and Atrium restaurant presents themed brunches, where besides culinary joys, the focus is on entertainment and live experiences.
Guests staying in Deluxe or above rooms will also benefit from use of the Executive Club which offers complimentary breakfast, fine Hungarian wines, a wide range of spirits, non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, tea, coffee and refreshments throughout the day. The Executive Club was designed for today’s discerning traveler and is the ideal environment for conducting business and relaxing while working away from the office.
For more information about dining at the Corinthia Hotel Budapest, please visit www.corinthia.com/en/hotels/budapest/dining
The Royal Spa
Steeped in history, The Royal Spa is a unique attraction from the 19th century and has been given a new lease of life - remodeled as a luxurious and contemporary spa with a 15-meter pool.
The pool first opened in 1886, at that time it contained steam baths, wave and shower baths, electric baths, a pneumatic chamber and a medical room with cold water. The spa operated until 1944 when it closed for many years. The abandoned, obsolete spa was rediscovered in 1983 and, according to the original documents, there were plans to use the spa area for parking facilities. Thankfully, the proposal was turned down and the spa has since been beautifully restored to its original splendor offering the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day taking in all that the beautiful city of Budapest has to offer.
Also available at the Royal Spa is an extensive menu of treatments, including a range of luxury wellness and therapeutic body, face and massage treatments along with a fitness room, saunas, steam bath, jacuzzi, and various relaxation areas.
Whilst Budapest is known as the city of Baths, you need look no further than The Royal Spa when you are wanting to relax and unwind, it is the jewel of luxury at Corinthia Hotel Budapest. Within the framework of its classical interiors, the Royal Spa has been carefully redesigned to provide over 1,000 m2 of vitality, tranquility and well-being.
Conferences and Events
Perfect for conferences, the Valletta Exhibition centre is a showpiece of 21st century architecture and technology, offering a large event or display space which can be partitioned to create up to 12 syndicate rooms or opened to create large event spaces with refreshment areas.
The facilities also include a Grand Ballroom which offers the perfect venue for a truly unforgettable event. The Ballroom has been restored to its original beauty with rich, baroque-style decorated ceilings and walls and is connected to the Valletta Exhibition centre via a glass bridge meaning the two centres can easily be linked to support a more extravagant, large-scale event.
Then there is the Royal Lounge which is elegantly furnished and features private meeting rooms, boardrooms and rest sections, all fully equipped with built-in smart screens, a wireless printer and mobile chargers, making it the perfect place to meet clients.
For more information and to book your stay at Corinthia Hotel Budapest, head to
www.corinthia.com/budapest
Budapest Key Attractions
Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is divided by the River Danube. Once two cities known as Buda and Pest, they are now connected by the 19th-century Chain Bridge.
Here, we take a look at the top things to do whilst visiting this wonderful city.
Parliament Building
Situated on the banks of the River Danube, Parliament building is sure to take your breath away. Take an evening river cruise along the Danube to see this amazing building at its best. A guided tour of Parliament is also advisable where you can admire the architecture and grand decoration whilst learning the history of this magnificent building.
Shoes on the Danube Bank
Also situated on the banks of the River Danube and just a short stroll from the Parliament building are the Shoes on the Danube Bank, a memorial to honour the people who were killed by fascist Arrow Cross militiamen in Budapest during World War II. They were made to take off their shoes, and were shot at the edge of the water leaving their bodies to fall into the river and were carried away. The iron sculptures represent their shoes left behind on the bank.
Heroes’ Square
A major square in Budapest that contains statues featuring the Seven chieftains of the Magyars and other important Hungarian national leaders, as well as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
St Stephen’s Basilica
The third largest church building in Hungary, named in honour of Stephen, the first King of Hungary whose right hand is supposedly housed in the reliquary.
Castle District
Take a ride on the Funicular up Buda Hill to the Castle District and admire the spectacular views of Budapest along with the historic attractions of Buda Castle, the Royal Palace, St Matthias Church and Fishermen’s Bastion.
All of the above are within walking distance of Corinthia Hotel Budapest, but are also easily accessible via Budapest’s extensive transport network. A tram stop along with a bus stop are situated right outside the hotel.
Looking for a comfortable hotel in the Lakes that serves award-winning food? Relax and unwind at the perfectly located Beech Hill Hotel & Spa. Expect well-cooked local produce, pampering treatments at their Lakeview Spa and some of the most spectacular views of Lake Windermere.
The Atmosphere
Nestled on the eastern bank of Lake Windermere and just a five-minute drive from the picturesque town of Bowness-on-Windermere, Beech Hill Hotel & Spa benefits from an outstanding location and peaceful surroundings. Its 57 rooms feel very homely and most of them come with private balconies or access to the hotel’s stunning garden. There is a spacious balcony next to the restaurant and the hotel’s living room which is the perfect spot for a pre-dinner sunset cocktail - if the weather permits.
The Restaurant
The AA Rosette awarded Burlington Restaurant at Beech Hill Hotel & Spa is headed by Chef Lukasz who specialises in French and English cuisine. His menu encompasses the very best from Cumbrian suppliers and some of the highlights include the light Piel Island lobster, king prawn and avocado tian starter, as well as the cooked-to-perfection sea bass fillet that comes with fondant potato, marsh-samphire ice salad, asparagus and a delicious dill beurre blanc sauce.
The breakfast buffet features all of the full-English staples, as well as some continental options such as a small selection of pastries, yoghurt, cereals and fruit.
The Spa
As its name would suggest, whether you’re unwinding by the indoor pool at Lakeview Spa or choose to de-stress in the vitality spa pool in the garden, you can enjoy magnificent views of Lake Windermere in a relaxing setting. The spa also offers an extensive list of Elemis treatments that promise to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
For more information and to book your stay at Beech Hill Hotel & Spa, please visit:
Copenhagen was just ranked 9th in this year’s ‘Most liveable cities in the world’ survey by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). And this doesn’t come as a surprise to anyone! Denmark’s capital is all about enjoying the good life – it regularly tops international happiness surveys and is known as ‘the happiest city in the world’. In addition to being one of the globe’s greenest, cleanest and most sustainable capitals, Copenhagen boasts world-class urban architecture sitting alongside old historic buildings and palaces, picturesque harbours and hip, Scandi-chic cafés and restaurants. With an abundance of things to do and see, the Danish capital is the ideal place for your next city break – promising to exceed your expectations and to teach you how to ‘hygge’.
Where to stay
For a colourful and characterful, yet cosy hotel, stay at the ideally located Absalon Hotel in the upcoming Vesterbro district. Founded in 1938 and still run by the same family, the hotel is only a five-minute walk from Copenhagen’s Central Station and the city’s iconic Tivoli Gardens. Housed in a stunning 19th-century building, it offers 161 modern rooms designed by London-based designer Trisha Guild and featuring lots of colour, exquisite marble bathrooms and organic Karmameju toiletries.
The salon at Absalon Hotel is the perfect room for curling up on one of the deep armchairs dotted around the bright room with a glass of wine. During the day, you’ll find people tapping away on MacBooks or reading a book in the corner while sipping on a latte and as the evening rolls and the colourful open space takes on an all-together different glow, cheerful groups of friends, families and couples flock to the bar for a cocktail after a day of exploring the streets of Copenhagen.
Continental breakfast can be enjoyed in an expansive room just a few steps away from the bar. Expect all of the continental buffet staples with the thoughtful addition of some Danish classics, including freshly baked pastries, local cheese and herring.
Whether you're visiting Copenhagen for business or pleasure, Absalon Hotel’s convenient location, modern décor and truly impeccable service make it a wonderful place to rest your head at night and wake up to in the morning.
For more information, please go to https://www.absalon-hotel.dk/en/
Where to eat
With its Michelin-starred restaurants and clever Nordic cuisine, Copenhagen is known as a true culinary powerhouse. Mielcke & Hurtigkarl’s experimental and exciting menu however, instantly made it our favourite find!
Set in the beautiful Royal Horticultural Gardens, the restaurant promises an experience like no other. Designed to ‘make your taste buds dance’, the chef’s secret tasting menu is arguably the finest and most daring food you’ll find in Copenhagen. From appetisers such as yeast chips and tiny egg-white, meringue-like baguettes filled with mozzarella, tomato and basil, through to the last bite of delicate pistachio cake served on a wooden board accompanied by a printed out poem by Michael Faudet, the dining experience at Mielcke & Hurtigkarl is a gastronomic adventure that resembles a form of art.
With its magnificent high ceilings, white walls and a solitary tree in the centre of the room, the restaurant’s plant-inspired décor is nearly as extraordinary as the food itself. In summer, tables spill out onto a patio terrace in the garden and the atmosphere is so magically laid back that you’d be happy to linger over the extensive number of courses (and the sublime wines paired superbly to complement each dish).
For more information, please go to http://www.mhcph.com/
To make a reservation, please call +45 3834 8436 or email booking@mhcph.com
Rugged coastline, sandy beaches, beautiful countryside, medieval castles and a world-class food scene. The largest Channel Island, Jersey, is the perfect destination for a long weekend break, although the abundance of cultural and scenic experiences and the genuine friendliness of everyone you meet promise to make you want to book another trip and return there as soon as you’re back home.
If you’re planning a mini trip to Jersey or if you need inspiration for your next weekend getaway this summer, then read on for Finance Monthly’s top recommendations.
How to get there?
Getting from Europe, and especially the UK, to Jersey is ridiculously easy. Flybe operates flights to Jersey from all major British cities, which get you to the picturesque island in approximately an hour. Once you land, grab a Hertz rental car from the arrivals hall and head out into the narrow country lanes.
Where to stay?
With its breath-taking views across St. Ouen’s Bay, stunning outdoor pool and swaying palms, The Atlantic Hotel makes it difficult to believe that all of this is only an hour-long flight from London. With its six acres of grounds that border La Moye Golf Course, along with lush gardens, timelessly elegant interiors and rooms that have either sea or golf-course views, The Atlantic Hotel is Jersey’s answer to beachside luxury.
If you don’t feel like heading out to the capital St. Helier for dinner on your first night in Jersey, enjoy a gastronomic fine-dining experience at the hotel’s Ocean Restaurant and sample the Tasting Room seven-course menu by Chef Will Holland.
The Atlantic Hotel offers an Atlantic break year round from £118 per person per night. This includes accommodation, full English breakfast each morning, a three-course dinner in Ocean Restaurant each night, use of the Palm Club and a group B hire car (petrol, insurance and Jersey hire car tax to be settled direct with the hire car company). Minimum two-night stay.
To book your stay at The Atlantic Hotel, please visit www.theatlantichotel.com, call +44 (0) 1534 744101 or email reservations@theatlantichotel.com.
What to do & see?
Jersey is only five miles by nine miles, but is brimming with an abundance of things to do. With its hugely varied landscape, a coastline that doesn’t get boring for a second, ideal conditions for water sports such as surfing or kayaking, a number of museums, an adventure centre, a zoo and so much history, the island offers something for everyone.
Start off your day of exploration in St. Brelade’s Bay by taking a stroll along the beach and soaking up some sunshine. La Corbière is the extreme south-western point of Jersey in St. Brelade and visiting its lighthouse is another great way to take in the endless sea views. However, you still haven’t seen anything and I promise you - it only gets better. For some of the most dramatic scenery on the whole island, drive along the west coast, all the way up until you get to the main act – the rugged north coast. We suggest stopping a few times to fully enjoy the jaw-dropping beauty of Jersey’s north coast and take photos.
Following this, grab a quick crab sandwich and a coffee from Jersey’s iconic kiosk The Hungry Man and set some time aside to properly explore the network of staircases and secret rooms in Mont Orgueil Castle, which guards the picturesque village of Gorey on the east coast.
After a delicious breakfast in the Atlantic Hotel on the next morning, prepare yourselves for a journey back in time with Jersey War Tours. Immerse yourselves in the Channel Island’s fascinating WWII history by visiting a number of bunkers, batteries, tunnels, towers and many other sites - all of which are not open to the public.
In addition to its water sports offering, adrenaline junkies or families with kids can enjoy a morning or an afternoon at Valley Adventure Centre, which offers an exciting range of activities such as zip wiring, aerial or rookie trekking, climbing, paintball and more.
If you have some time to spare before your flight, grab your car and head to the capital St. Helier for a coffee or an ice-cream and some shopping or enjoy one last beach walk and a few final deep breaths of fresh salty air.
Where to dine?
For a real taste of just-caught seafood, head to the Michelin Bib Gourmand Mark Jordan at the Beach – a relaxed beachside restaurant in the magical fishing village of St. Aubin. Delicious, locally sourced and cleverly presented food, excellent views, laid back atmosphere and outstanding service – what more can one ask for? The Jersey scallops with chive and cucumber beurre blanc and the brill in lobster bisque are both unmissable.
On your last night, head back to St. Aubin and its harbour and finish your day at Salty Dog Bar & Bistro. Enjoy a glass of wine in the garden before settling down in the bustling dining area to indulge in classic dishes, with a contemporary twist and impeccably prepared with local ingredients. For a taste of everything, try the St. Aubin Seafood sharing platter for two, which comes with scrumptious Jersey Royals and a green salad.
For more information about Jersey, please visit www.jersey.com
Flybe operates daily flights to Jersey from London and Birmingham, with fares starting from £26.33 one way, including taxes and charges. Book now at www.flybe.com
Known for all of its high-end flamboyance, Dubai is on most people’s bucket list destination of travel. And we do not blame them; fear not of conforming to the ‘wanna-be’ celebrity WAG’s ideal home away from home, because Dubai truly will baffle you.
Grandeur being her middle name, the United Arab Emirate city overshadows the Middle East with its ultramodern architecture and skyscrapers. From luxury designer shops to serene beaches, once branded as the Middle East’s most expensive city, Dubai’s character is to feed the slight hedonism in all of us.
She also feeds the adventure in us. From the tamer dune bashing and sandboarding, to the extreme paragliding and parachuting, this city has the perfect climate and atmosphere for you to overdose on adrenaline; and to try and stop you from changing your mind, hotels such as Amwaj Rotana are a quick two-minute walk from the beach you will be jet skiing across.
But for those who indulge in the history of a nation, Dubai also flaunts true Emirati culture; it will feel like you have travelled back in time. Step off the metro to hop on an abra – a traditional wooden boat – to discover tantalising cuisine and your hidden talent of haggling (the locals love a challenge).
The Old Souq is packed with stalls selling traditional Arabian textiles, including fine silk and cotton in every colour, intricately woven rugs and dazzling sequined footwear. Spoil your eyes awing at the vividly colourful, fresh spices and treat your nose to the musky scent of ‘liquid gold’: Oud. It is no surprise that with Oud being one of the most expensive raw scent ingredients, that Tom Ford, Gucci, Guerlian and an array of designers have snatched up the unique fragrance. At Dubai’s Deira Souq, you can be your own version of Jo Malone; from essential oils to incense sticks, vendors will be more than happy to give a crash course in perfumes for you to personally create your own.
And of course, the most famous market: The Gold Souq. Covered with bespoke jewellery and statement pieces that would even make the Queen’s diamond collection look dry, the Gold Souq has an overwhelming choice of gold and diamonds. My tip? Have a good look around before you settle on the perfect ring.
Amwaj Rotana is situated near the metro line, where you can be in Deira via public transport in around an hour. You can also get a taxi (which aren’t too dear), which will take around half an hour.
If haggling and bustling market is not your thing and you much prefer shopping in luxury, the infamous Dubai Mall is for you. The Mall itself, I think, could easily be the size of a town. It is also home to the aquarium which is much loved by adults and children, as well as an ice rink, cinema, the Emirates ‘flight’ experience, a virtual reality park, and of course, a mass array of designer shops, Emirati shops and places to fine dine or casual eateries.
If that is not enough (you must be a tough one to please), but the Mall is also the neighbour of the tallest building of the world: the Burj Khalifa. Standing 828 metres tall, the tower not only showcases the entire city, but you can treat yourselves to afternoon tea on the outskirts of heaven.
Amwaj Rotana is situated 50 minutes away via public transport, or a short 20 minute drive via taxi.
Where to stay
Amwaj Rotana is situated a short two minute (101 steps, to be accurate) walk from the Jumeirah Beach; if the swimming pool isn’t enough for you, you can be dipping your toes in the sea in no time.
For special VIP guests, you can bask in the comfort and feel at home at Atrium Lobby Lounge as you indulge on an array of juices, cocktails and freshly made cakes, treats and delicious pastries. A fine selection of tea and coffees is also available should you wish to enjoy a relaxed cup of tea or discuss business over coffee.
The spacious rooms overlook the city and coast, or, if you want to get out of the room and join those you’re overlooking, you can order a limousine to drive you around. The hotel staff are happy to organise day trips to the desert where you can befriend camels and enjoy a night of Arabian entertainment, or if you fancy something more subdued, enjoy a relaxing massage at Rotana’s spa.
With award-winning dining concepts offering Italian, American/Japanese, British/American and international cuisine as well as live entertainment, and the friendly staff are more than happy to cook something on the spot for those with dietary requirements.
The staff at Rotana are friendly in nature and are more than happy to offer advice for those who are new to Dubai.
Kids? If you want to enjoy the jacuzzi in peace, send them off to Amwaj’s Flipper’s Kids’ Club or, try and find a willing member to babysit them at Dubai’s much-loved waterpark, or at the Splashpad located at the Jumeirah Beach.
Emirati hospitality is something you must experience for yourself. A perfected mix of luxury and warmth, Dubai is an ever-growing city that is grand in nature.
Stay at the five-star Amwaj Rotana in Dubai from 795 AED (approx. £155) per night inclusive of breakfast based on two adults sharing a Classic Room. To book or for further information, please visit www.rotana.com.
Whether you’re looking for a (last-minute) summer holiday destination, a cultural city break or a foodie weekend getaway - Malta has it all! With history that spans 7,000 years, unique prehistoric temples, medieval towns and some of the oldest architectural designs in the world, on top of its breath-taking landscapes and clear blue waters, the small Mediterranean island is richly packed with things to do, see and discover.
The capital Valletta is brimming with grand architecture, hidden restaurants and picturesque back streets, but drive 8 kilometres inland and you’ll find yourself in the chic residential area where Corinthia Palace Hotel is located. Peppered between traditional Maltese houses, the hotel is far removed from the island’s touristy areas, whilst remaining perfectly connected.
The General Vibe
Opened in 1968, the 147-room hotel is the original flagship of Corinthia Hotels – a collection of five-star hotels worldwide. Stepping into the spacious marble foyer, you’re greeted with a glass of fresh orange juice and the instant feel that the staff will do their best to help you with any request. The rooms are traditional, elegant and they all come along with a balcony overlooking the hotel's extensive gardens.
The Restaurants
With three restaurants to choose from – Asian, fine dining or a relaxed al fresco restaurant serving summer favourites, Corinthia Palace Hotel caters to most tastes.
With a menu that is a colourful mix of dishes from Thailand, Japan, Singapore and China, the award-winning Rickshaw restaurant takes you on a gastronomic journey to the Far East. From pork, cabbage and water chestnut gyozas, through to Singaporean frog porridge – the food is exotic, innovative and absolutely mouth-watering.
For an authentic Mediterranean meal cooked with sustainably sourced, local produce, or a quintessentially British afternoon tea, cosy up in the elegant Villa Corinthia restaurant, housed in a stunningly restored century-old villa.
If you’re spending the day lazing around the pool, have lunch in Corinthia Palace’s al fresco venue - the Summer Kitchen. Set within the hotel’s lush gardens and overlooking the pool, the restaurant serves anything from fresh salads, grilled fish and meat, through to scrumptious pasta dishes and pizza cooked in their brand new wood-burning oven.
The Athenaeum Spa
With its stunning outdoor pool that calls for a relaxed afternoon of soaking up the sun with a good book and a cocktail in your hand and a spa that offers everything from a Jacuzzi and a sauna through to a steam garden, Corinthia Palace is the kind of hotel that you’ll probably struggle to leave after breakfast. The extensive list of treatments and procedures at the Athenaeum Spa includes manicure, pedicure, bridal and evening make-up, tanning and ‘healthy glow’ treatments, as well as rejuvenating massages, anti-ageing, body exfoliation and detoxifying body wrap therapies.
And if you get a sudden burst of energy after a day of relaxation or like to start your day with a workout, the gym at Corinthia Palace boasts state-of-the-art cardio equipment, a resistance area and a studio with morning and afternoon classes, including pilates, yoga, and more. Private training sessions and tennis lessons with a qualified coach are available too in the hotel's own tennis court.
Rates at Corinthia Palace Hotel start from €180/night withbreakfast for a double room and from €330/night with breakfast for a suite. For more information, please go to: www.corinthia.com/palace
Getting away from your busy work life is for most a relieving feeling. All you’re missing is a well-prepared expedition somewhere else. This month Finance Monthly keeps you ready and up to date with the latest and best travel gadgets of the year. Here’s 2018’s list of must-have travel gadgets for the summer.
Olloclip Mobile Photo Lenses
We’ve tried Olloclip’s lenses ourselves and as endorsed by Apple, these are the best of the bets when it comes to mobile camera lenses. Perfect for taking epic snaps on your summer trip this year. You just clip them on and you’ll be surprised at the amazing photography you can achieve through enhanced optics and effects. With telephoto, wide angle, fisheye and macro lenses, these must have gadget is enough to win you awards in photography.
Myanmu Clik earbuds with Voice Translation
These aren’t on the go travel earbuds. The Myanmu Cliks are earbuds that allow you to speak face-to-face or with a group of people wherever they are in the world and in different languages. Powered by Mymanu Translate App, wherever you go this summer, you can have over 29 languages translated into your ears, allowing you to enjoy every conversation and exploration without the language barrier.
Triple Juice® Mains Charger
Thanks to the Triple Juice®’s multiple USB ports staying organised can be a breeze. Ideal for on the go power, the Triple Juice® offers a powerful (2.4amp) USB port to quickly restore iPads, tablets or devices, as well as two additional (1amp) USB ports for other mobile devices. No more charging worries on your travels this summer, but don’t forget your travel adapter!
Thumbs Up Solar Panel Charger
While you’re not in the hotel, you’ll need to charge up on the go too. Whether you’re hiking, camping, sunbathing or simply travelling this summer, Thumbs Up has the perfect portable solar charger for outdoor lovers. Simply open it up and place in direct sunlight to charge your device. It’s super lightweight, and includes a 2in1 android iOS cable, so rest assured this will keep your batteries pumped in the sun.
Lindy BNX-60s Headphones
These headphones are Lindy’s best-selling product to date with 5* reviews from the likes of What Hi-Fi, Stuff, Expert Reviews and Computer Shopper. They’re noise cancelling – meaning less distraction from the outside world and they’re perfect for those long-haul flights, long evenings at the beach and a solitary hike. They easily link up to your smartphone and sound really tight. Just what you’ll need to enjoy the relaxing summer ahead.
GoXtreme Vision 4K Action Cam
If you’re opposed to the classic GoPro brand, then this extraordinary alternative will more than do the job. Capture the waves as your surf away from your worries, or the long ride down the mountain as you escape peak working stress. The GoXtreme Vision 4K is a compact video and still image action camera with class leading features including stunning ultra-high definition true 4K/24fps video recording and still image capture at up to 16MP. The 170 viewing angle, built-in 2.0" LCD screen and WiFi connectivity allow you to capture, view and share every detail of your amazing travels.
Blink XT Home Monitoring System
No more worrying about your home while you’re away. With the Blink XT, you can now protect your entire home, inside and out, with top of the range security cams. Blink is easy to set up, just a fraction of the cost of other home monitoring systems and has no subscription fees or data storage charges. The cameras detect motion and send HD video with audio to your smartphone, or you can simply check in at any point while you’re away.
BruMate Hopsulator Trio
Hate warm beer? No longer a problem. Say hello to the BruMate Hopsulator Trio, the world's best beer can cooler! This clever 3-in-1 design fits all standard sized 16oz cans, but also includes an Arctic Adapter filled with freezable gel to convert the Hopsulator into use for 12oz tins too! But that’s not all, when empty the Hopsulator Trio has a capacity of 16 fluid ounces, so there’s little literally no excuse not to enjoy your summer travels this year.
Pulitzer Amsterdam is a boutique hotel in the heart of Amsterdam’s trendiest neighborhood, the Negen Straatjes. Made up of 25 17th and 18th-century restored canal houses, it’s a unique fusion of quintessential Dutch elegance and contemporary style.
The Accommodation
Overlooking the picturesque Prinsengracht canal, Pulitzer Amsterdam has beautiful waterfront rooms where you can sit at your window and watch the canal boats pass by. With tall windows and original features, the hotel’s beautiful design elements transcended into the rooms and the accent colours of lime green, dark teal and purple is a match-made-in-heaven.
Upon arrival in the room, we discovered a packet of biscuits from the hotel bar, a bottle of champagne and a handwritten note from the Pulitzer team welcoming us to the hotel. Along with bone china teacups, a cafetiere with freshly ground coffee and some Dutch waffle biscuits, the room felt like a luxurious home away from home.
Hotel Restaurants
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Jansz Restaurant serves contemporary bistro fare in a bright space overlooking the canal. The restaurant specialises in seasonal modern takes on classic dishes, which could include morano-spiced salmon with couscous or roasted lamb with lentils - all prepared in the exhibition-style open kitchen.
With a wall of windows and a menu of light dishes, casual breakfast plates and crisp wines, the more casual restaurant Pause is an excellent place to recharge between bike rides or enjoy a cup of tea on the terrace.
Pulitzer's Bar
The bar at Pulitzer Amsterdam tells a tale of cocktail history through a classic menu and effortlessly elegant atmosphere. The warm, clubby bar channels vintage glamour with leather seats, mood lighting and dark corners for cosying up. One could easily flee the bustle of the city and spend the night talking away over a cocktail or two.
The Verdict
Pulitzer Amsterdam ticks every box. Perfect location, dream interiors, food that is to die for and friendly staff – what more could one possibly ask for?
Website: https://www.pulitzeramsterdam.com/
By Katina Hristova
Good Hotel is not your typical London hotel - and I mean this in the best way possible. Moored by the Royal Victoria Docks and housed in a floating platform, the hotel stands out not only from the neighbouring buildings, but from any other hotel in England’s capital. And not only because it looks differently. Dedicated to helping people, Good Hotel is a unique example of philanthropic hospitality. Recognised with a REBEL Award for greatest innovation/disruption in the industry, the hotel offers employment and training to unemployed people in the community. But the reasons to stay at Good Hotel don't stop here - laid-back chic industrial design and furnishings, a hip restaurant, rooms boasting magnificent Thames views, a spacious rooftop bar and a general community-focused feel. Whether you’re visiting London for business or pleasure, Good Hotel is an ideal place to come back to after a day of meetings or exploration.
The General Vibe
Stepping into Good Hotel, you’re greeted with dark ceilings, low-hanging lamps, plants, neon signs and wooden tables that make up the massive living room area, which is where the bar, restaurant and reception are. During the day, the area is filled with people working on their laptops whilst sipping on a coffee, business people headed to one of the meeting rooms on the ground floor or friends having late breakfast. The ambiance is all about minimalism and modern Scandinavian interior details.
Rooms are small and compact and have a nautical cabin feel to them - something that is further enhanced by the aforementioned Thames views. But don't expect to be spending a lot of time in the room - at Good Hotel, the main reason why the living area is so spacious is to encourage the communal spirit of the hotel.
The restaurant is friendly and open, and was busy and buzzing when we visited on a rainy Saturday evening. If the sun’s a-shining, book a table by the expansive windows to make the most of those stupendous views over the Thames. The food is unpretentious, but tasty - simple classics cooked beautifully. Breakfast is a relaxed affair here, with a Continental buffet selection, a range of juices and smoothies and well-made coffees.
The Cause
Good Hotel Founder Marten Dresen launched the concept in Amsterdam, turning an old detention centre into a chic, modern hotel that gives back to the community. The floating platform was transported over the North Sea to London in October 2016. Aiming to redefine the model of doing business, the hotel employs long-term unemployed people - offering them a fresh start and a future in the hospitality sector. After completing a free training, individuals are offered a three-month contract of employment, followed by endless opportunities for a permanent job in the field. And as if this isn't enough, the hotel also supports kids of low-income families living in the mountain villages around Antigua, Guatemala. Talk about hospitality with a cause.
Website: http://www.goodhotellondon.com/
You may think cash has come to an end, or maybe you’re on the other side of the fence, where cash is king. However, a balance is to be struck. Below WeSwap CEO Jared Jesner explains why travellers will also need cash, despite a predominantly digital economy.
Trailing closely behind Sweden and Canada, the United Kingdom is the world’s third most cashless society. According to UK Finance, cash will be used for a mere 21% of all payments by 2026. Increasingly, countries around the world are making definite moves towards a futuristic economy based on fully digital transactions for goods and services, with cash often portrayed as obsolete. In Sweden, 80% of all transactions are made by cards via the mobile payment app, Swish.
According to a report in Reuters citing the Bank for International Settlements, the study found that the use of cash is actually rising in both developed and emerging markets. “Some of the breathless commentary gives the impression that cash in the form of traditional notes and coins is going out of fashion fast,” said Hyun Song Shin, BIS economic adviser and head of research “despite all the technological improvements in payments in recent years, the use of good old-fashioned cash is still rising in most, though not all, advanced and emerging market economies.” Furthermore, the Bank for International Settlements found that in recent years, the amount of cash in circulation has increased to 9% of GDP in 2016 from 7% of GDP back in 2000. That said, the same study stated that debit and credit card payments represented 25% of GDP in 2016, up from 13% in 2000.
Cash’s resiliency comes at a time when the odds are seemingly stacked against its historically ubiquitous presence, with the critical mass of consumers owning more credit and debit cards today than ever before, using them for smaller transactions than in years past. Moreover, thanks to new technologies, consumers are able to use contactless payments via their mobile devices to pay for things in record numbers. These now societal norms have led to predictions that cash is dying as the world moves to digital payments. WeSwap asserts this prediction as flawed.
Jared Jesner, CEO of WeSwap, founded his company on the notion that cash remains indispensable across the majority of countries around the world: travelers will inevitably need to access hard currency beyond UK borders, and the method with which to do so, should be fair and transparent. As the key driver of a uniquely positioned digital banking revolution sweeping the nation, Jesner demystifies the notion that cash is moving closer towards extinction, instead recognizing its unwavering importance to society in 2018.
In just three years since launching its core product, WeSwap has rapidly risen to become the world’s largest peer-to-peer currency conversion platform, also enabling users to buy-back excess currency and receive cash delivered straight to their door. Its promise to streamline the travel budgeting process, empowers tourists and business travelers to make the most of their money abroad, with users loading funds onto the WeSwap card and swapping currency directly with each other at the interbank rate with no hidden fees. The service is unique and currently used by over 400,000 UK travelers, all of which appreciate and use the notes in their wallets, coins in their purses and contactless pings of their MasterCards.
CEO of WeSwap Jared Jesner states: “Our nation loves to travel and although we are moving closer towards becoming a cashless society within our own borders, when we go abroad this all changes.”
Jesner is optimistic about the enormous potential to change the landscape of payments, having founded WeSwap to make currency exchange cheap and fair for ordinary people: “I’m incredulous to the fact that we still 'buy' money when we should just be swapping with each other.”
With Futurologists long predicting cash will one day become obsolete, contextualised by the advent of blockchain technology, mobile money and similar innovations, a transition towards a more cashless society is inevitable, but not to the extent where notes are no-more. For all the convenience that digital payments offer, many remain reluctant to fully part with their notes and coins. WeSwap believes that an emotive and security-based connection – similar to our attachment with photographs, films, books and other things of tangible value – secure the role of hard-currency in our lives, inevitably.
