Toast with your Teacup

Freshly baked scones with lashings of cream and jam, delicate finger sandwiches and delicious cakes and pastries – sounds like just the thing for your leading lady this Mother’s Day. Toast with your teacup and treat her to Patisserie Valerie’s decadent Afternoon Tea experience, available in its cafés across the UK and for nationwide delivery.

Lovingly handcrafted by the skilled master bakers, Madame Valerie’s Afternoon Tea for Two (£25, excluding delivery) features all your favourite patisserie in miniature form, from strawberry and black forest gateaux to chocolate eclairs and fluffy choux buns. The Madame Valerie Slice combining layers of chocolate sponge, salted caramel and chocolate cream is not to be missed! Sweet treats are served alongside plain and fruit scones, clotted cream, strawberry jam and complimentary freshy roasted single origin bean or ground coffee blend, exclusively for Patisserie Valerie. 

For those looking to venture out, the Madame Valerie Afternoon Tea can be enjoyed at its 43 café locations across the UK, from London to Glasgow, Bristol to Belfast and everything in between – priced at £32.95, the in-store afternoon tea experience also includes dainty artisan sandwiches, hand crafted selection of bespoke cakes and eclairs, homemade scones and refillable tea.

Cakes for Delivery

Indulge with Patisserie Valerie’s two stunning creations perfect for the occasion. Opt for the Lemon Vanilla Heart (£34.95), featuring layers of vanilla sponge, fresh cream, lemon and strawberry compote, encased with dark chocolate sticks and topped with fresh lemon buttercream rosettes and strawberry filling, or the Strawberry Gateaux Love Heart (£34.95) with layers of vanilla sponge, fresh cream, and strawberry compote, encased with dark chocolate sticks and topped with fresh cream rosettes and strawberry filling.

Patisserie Valerie’s Mother’s Day range is available to pre-order from 3rd – 20th March with deliveries made on or before Mother’s Day, 27th March. Large cakes are available online for nationwide delivery and via Uber Eats, Deliveroo and Just Eat.

patisserie-valerie.co.uk

Chefs Simon Hulstone & Nigel Mendham to showcase kitchen-garden produce

‘British Bounty’: a one-night collaboration between Chefs Simon Hulstone & Nigel Mendham

Dukes London has announced that its much-loved restaurant, GBR (Great British Restaurant), will host a one-night-only dinner on 15th March 2022, a unique collaboration between GBR’s Chef Nigel Mendham and Chef Simon Hulstone of The Elephant in beautiful Torquay. Tickets are now available at £125 per person: the evening includes a welcome drink and a six-course tasting menu with wine pairing.

The Chefs will showcase their combined passion for the bounty of British kitchen-gardens and farms, highlighting much-loved local produce and with a one-off six-course menu that uses ingredients including elderberries, Devon clotted cream, Scottish langoustine and locally-sourced Beesands scallops. It is a sensational seasonal menu that will showcase the vibrant taste of Britain.

Chef Proprietor Simon Hulstone has been cooking professionally since his school days and is one of the UK’s most decorated chefs. In 2003 he won the Roux Scholarship and went on to win the Craft Guild of Chefs National Chef of the Year Award in 2008. He has twice represented the UK in the Bocuse d’Or, the world’s most prestigious culinary contest, and he captained the British team at the Culinary Olympics and Culinary World Cup in 2010 and 2012. With his team at The Elephant in Torquay, he has put the English Riviera on the culinary map, taking his first Michelin star in 2005 and maintaining it every year since. A champion of Devon and its produce, he has helped develop The Elephant’s 96-acre dedicated farm in Brixham, which supplies 70% of the restaurant’s vegetables and a wide variety of leaves and herbs as well as free-range eggs and Kelly Bronze turkeys.

Simon says, “it’s been far too long since I’ve been able to cook for guests outside of my restaurant, and I’m looking forward to showcasing a taste of Devon and the Elephant for guests at Dukes. The chefs and I are also looking forward to working with Nigel and his talented team to create a truly celebratory British menu.”

Chef Nigel Mendham was born in Norfolk and has always had a passion for Britain’s best produce, making use of the finest locally-sourced ingredients to create hearty British dishes with a twist. He is no stranger to playing a major role in the kitchen at some of the UK’s top restaurants and spent the early years of his career working in red star country houses around the British Isles – from the south coast to the Lake District, including the Lygon Arms, South Lodge, Stapleford Park and The Samling Hotel which held the Michelin Star for two years. The all-day dining concept of GBR takes Nigel’s philosophy on food back to its roots. Since taking over as Executive Head Chef there in 2011, he has made his mark on the competitive London dining scene with simple, elegant food prepared with traditional techniques to produce dishes that are refined and precise, balancing classic flavours with contemporary flair.

Nigel says ‘”Simon is one of the most respected chefs in the industry, and this collaboration is a huge honour for me and an opportunity to share our philosophies on how great British ingredients should be championed. I’m looking forward to welcoming Simon and his team to DUKES LONDON and to creating a memorable evening in GBR.”

British Bounty’ Menu
15th March 2022, 18:30

Beef ‘tea’ dripping on toast, smoked salt, burnt brisket ends

Cauliflower marinated in curry oil, cauliflower couscous, spiced lentils, sultanas

Beesands hand-dived scallops, BBQ hen of the woods, shallot puree, aromatic green herb sauce

Roast Scottish langoustine, parsnip puree, bartlett pear, hazelnut & langoustine sauce

Loin of venison, onion ash, haunch croquette, turnip & apple, heritage beetroot, elderberry jus

‘Egg & Soldiers’

Devon clotted cream (clotted cream mousse, blackberry jam, gingerbread, sorbet)

A portion of all profits will go to the charity Hospitality Action, who offer vital assistance to those who have worked within hospitality in the UK and who find themselves in a crisis. Recently, much of this focus has been placed on helping those affected by COVID-19, such as giving mental health support to those who faced furlough, fighting domestic abuse, and helping parents cope with homeschooling.

To book tickets, email gbrlondon@dukeshotel.com; call 020 7491 4840

A New Vision of Modern Luxury Premieres in Dubai With the Arrival of The Dubai EDITION

EDITION Hotels premieres in Dubai’s iconic Downtown district, a stone’s throw from the city’s world-class retail flagships, commercial district and its flourishing art, design and culture hubs. The Dubai EDITION is the brand’s latest addition in the Middle East following the success of its launch in Abu Dhabi.

Welcoming guests since November 2021, The Dubai EDITION, with its own unique and original identity, embodies its sense of place at the centre of a thriving international gateway city that is steered by pioneering spirit and innovation while anchored in its rich culture. It is no wonder that EDITION has debuted in one of the most exciting cities in the world.

The Dubai EDITION heralds a new generation of modern luxury and pays homage to Dubai’s passion to create something entirely new. The result is an elegant, vibrant, urban hub that undeniably encapsulates the essence of this inspiring city and sets the bar for the luxury of the future. The Dubai EDITION brings a new bespoke, boutique experience with the acute attention to detail and finesse that the EDITION brand is known for.

From the outside, The Dubai EDITION stands tall within the Downtown district surrounded by world-famous attractions and landmarks. The green-filled entrance to the hotel is populated with bold terracotta pots transporting guests from the hustle and bustle to an oasis of calm. The clever landscaping continues throughout the hotel into the lobby, outdoor spaces and terraces, shaping intimate venues complete with lights beautifully woven through the gardens to create a playful dance at night.

As with all EDITION hotels, the lobby is a dynamic, social space that subtly reveals a sense of place and sense of time. In this soaring public space, the 50-foot-high domed ceiling is reminiscent of Italian architectural structures. You are immediately drawn to the centrepiece, a seamless triple spiral staircase, a truly unique design statement that connects the lobby to other public spaces. Dark woods, neutral tones, soft textures and warm lighting glide through the lobby lounge with furniture placed in intimate seating groups. This considered and intentional space is tranquil, comfortable, and effortless. A grand three-tiered crystal chandelier adds drama and decadence to this modern gathering place to see and be seen.

The cohesive design language flows seamlessly throughout the hotel and continues into the 275 guestrooms, including 41 suites and vast Penthouse. This simplicity in design immediately brings attention to minute details such as the matching of veins in the natural stone and wood. The palette is minimal yet warm, with a journey of slightly different hues and colours. The light oak wood and stone accents flow from one room to the other and evoke a feeling of tranquil luxury. The monochromatic colour scheme and contemporary minimalism make each room feel fresh and light and is complemented by the elegant lines of the furniture, textured upholstery and wooden-lined walls. Meanwhile, the spacious bathrooms, with natural-toned marble, are fitted with oval-shaped baths and custom Le Labo toiletries of EDITION’s exclusive scent. Floor to ceiling windows provide abundant light and lead onto large glass balconies with spectacular views over the iconic Burj Khalifa. Artwork by Carole Benitah adorns the walls depicting a young girl dancing in the Dubai fountains.

Accessible from the lobby, the ground floor is home to Duomo, the theatrical Italian restaurant serving modern interpretations of the traditional cuisine. Natural light fills the space through floor to ceiling windows, highlighting the pop of yellow in the velvet furnishings, a clear design departure from the natural-toned lobby. Abstract digital art is projected onto the dome ceiling above, creating an interactive and encompassing dining experience from the surroundings to the plate. The outdoor terrace is adorned with large potted olive trees and lit by lanterns at night with views of the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, in the near distance.

Tucked away in the lobby, Leon is a cosy speakeasy-style bar serving original custom cocktails and flavours from around the world. It is an exciting juxtaposition to the rest of the hotel with its punchy accents in orange and red against a dark, rich background. Clever lighting further enhances the vibrant colour-blocking throughout the space. It exudes energy and will be a place for visitors and those living in the city to enjoy live DJs, network and socialise. Leon perfectly channels EDITION’s ethos to surprise guests with the unexpected.

On the first floor, Jolie is a lively venue serving exquisite French cuisine inspired by Mediterranean coastal flavours. Here, wall to wall portraits inspired by Parisian high fashion set the scene for an energetic, glamourous space to transition from morning to evening dining. The restaurant is filled with natural, earthy hues from the bronze finishes, tan hide leather chairs and the raised olive and gold bar chairs that line the ‘U’ shaped bar. Rattan and teak chairs are interspersed with olive-green banquettes, while parlour palms and tropical plants give a sense of privacy. Seamless Terrazzo flooring is the statement design element throughout the restaurant. On the semi-enclosed balcony-inspired terrace overlooking Old Town, artwork adorns the walls depicting urban living.

By day, guests at Thia Sky Lounge can relax, soaking up the sun and jaw-dropping views of the Burj Khalifa. Large chaise lounges and private cabanas frame the beautifully landscaped pool that sits flush atop a deck with teak wood furniture and terracotta potted plants. In the evening, Thia Sky Lounge is a cosmopolitan attraction and an idyllic spot for sundowners and fresh light bites.

The Dubai EDITION offers modern event and meeting facilities, including three flexible meeting rooms, an event space poised to host the city’s latest happenings, and a ballroom with pre-function space. The hotel’s large 24-hour gym is light and airy, and fully equipped with Technogym equipment. The hotel will also feature an intimate spa with three treatment rooms.

Nestled in the epicentre of Downtown, the hotel is located near Dubai’s best neighbourhoods and attractions. It is just minutes to Downtown’s bustling boulevard, The Dubai Mall and Dubai Water Canal, and close to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Opera, the soon-to-open Museum of the Future and the financial district. The hotel is a serene escape from busy city life and a vibrant, social destination by both day and night. The hotel is housed in a 23-story building, with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Dubai skyline and unobstructed views of the landmark Burj Khalifa and the Old Town.

editionhotels.com

Triathlon of Senses

Main image: Pool Area by John Athimaritis

Looking for an endurance sporting experience with a touch of Zen?

Kick off your 2022 triathlon season with Six Senses Ibiza. Capturing the authentic Ibiza experience of community, spirituality and celebration, the resort – opened in July 2021 – is swiftly becoming one of the leading luxury resorts in the Mediterranean. On April 30th, Six Senses Ibiza is hosting the Triathlon of Senses.

The Triathlon of Senses is anything but an ordinary triathlon. The event is a journey of mind and body, merging both the physical and spiritual dimensions. Rather than starting with a dash to the water, the Triathlon of Senses starts with a tailormade warm-up yoga followed by a meditation session aimed to enable the athletes to harness the power of breath, movement and energy for individual performance. Then it’s time to swim, bike and run and cross the finish line. A special winding down yoga, a self-appreciation meditation and finally an Ibiza style celebration close out the event. It’s not only a competition, it’s a personal challenge that celebrates one’s energy, focus and endurance. The event features olympic, sprint and super distances along with a relay category and a kids event.

Image courtesy of Six Sense Ibiza by John Athimaritis

Olympian and former world champion Iván Raña Fuentes is headlining the event and leading the 4-day retreat.

“For me, racing in Spain is super motivational, and Ibiza will be even more so – it has such a unique energy. It’s a stunning landscape, the people are so friendly, and after training, there will be plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind at the hotel. When you spend a lot of your time racing, it’s important to relax and be happy somewhere beautiful, too.” — Ivan Raña

Nestled in the stunning setting of Xarraca Bay in the northern tip of Ibiza, the Six Senses Ibiza Resort, with its crystal blue waters and wild cliffs, are the backdrop to a distinct preparation aimed at producing a unique frequency that heightens and creates a different experience. Ibiza offers a variety of ideal spots for sports training and relaxation.

Registration for the April 30th event here.

OLYMPIC event — 1.500 m SWIM – 40 km BIKE – 10 km RUN
SPRINT event — 750 m SWIM – 20 km BIKE (road bike) – 5 km RUN
Team Spring relay — 750 m SWIM – 20 km BIKE (road bike) – 5 km RUN
SUPER SPRINT event — 375 m SWIM – 10 km BIKE (road bike) – 2,5 km RUN
Team Supersprint relay — 375 m SWIM – 10 km BIKE (road bike) – 2,5 km RUN

THE SIX SENSES IBIZA TRIATHLON RETREAT

The Six Senses Ibiza Triathlon Retreat experimental, trailblazing program includes biohacking, inspirational lectures, restorative yoga, meditation, massages and more. The retreat program was conceived in collaboration with top professional trainers from all relevant disciplines with a single goal; to get you into a mentally focused, emotionally elevated and optimal physical state to the triathlon starting line as well as mindfulness to embrace the experience and the accomplishment.

Six Senses Ibiza offers a range of rooms or suits for four nights, with full board, race entry in the Triathlon of Senses event and a tailor made program designed to best prepare you for the race with the support of Coach Vicent Beltran and the world class triathlon athlete Ivan Raña.

This premium activity further includes sport-related biohack treatments at Six Senses, two complimentary massage treatments and access to the full range of the resort’s spa, saunas and daily activities.

The Six Senses Ibiza Triathlon retreat starts at 4,800 Euros PP to 5,713€ for a couple.

Can’t make the full retreat? Six Senses Ibiza offer a weekend option (April 29th – May 1st), two nights from 2,140€ pp to 2,588€ per couple.

To book, visit Triathlon of Senses or email : reservations-ibiza@sixsenses.com.

Ancient North Thai Healing

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort Revives Ancient Northern Thai Healing Practices for the Body and Soul

Reviving Northern Thailand’s centuries-old massage and aromatherapy techniques, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort has introduced two rare therapeutic treatments, ‘Yam Khang’ and ‘Yajoo’, with long-standing historic roots connecting guests with the region’s rich Lanna heritage.

‘Yam Khang’ or Thai Fire Therapy is an ancient Lanna tradition, considered a sacred art where the therapist is required to have gained a high spiritual maturity. The treatment is done by using the feet only, which are first bathed into healing oil infused with mixed local herbs. The therapist then slips her foot onto an iron plough shear or ‘khang’ that has been heated over an open fire, then skillfully balanced, she massages the guest with one foot only.

With a strong tradition of rice cultivation, farming communities in northern Thailand have been using a cast-iron plough (khang) for centuries which is attributed with mythical properties whilst being an indispensable part of farming life.

The Yam Khang 60-minute treatment is priced at THB 4000. As the treatment uses an open fire, it is done outdoors next to Anantara Chiang Mai’s stunning pool on the banks of the Ping River.

The ‘Yajoo’ treatment utilises the local herb ‘plai’ healing powers to ease tension and deeply relax guests. The 90-minute treatment begins with heating a herbal poultice, giving off a fragrant aroma, which is then pressed along the body to ease pain and inflammation. A plai oil massage follows, ending with a light head massage and Tok Sen. Tok Sen involves a wooden hammer being tapped along your Sen energy line, relaxing the muscles, healing chronic pain, and improving the pathways of the nervous system.

Anantara Chiang Mai’s 90-minute Yajoo therapy starts at THB 3,500++ and includes:
• Relaxing foot soak
• Foot pressure therapy using tok sen wooden hammer
• Application of a plai poultice, heated over an iron plate, to areas of concern
• Full-body massage with plai oil using long, light strokes for deep penetration
• Light head massage and tok sen back massage using a wooden hammer.

anantara.com

LEVEN Manchester

LEVEN Manchester, an artfully designed new hotel is coming soon to the city’s vibrant Village neighbourhood.

Housed in a landmark early 20th century warehouse on the corner of Chorlton Street and Canal Street, LEVEN Manchester is a new hotel designed to be enjoyed on a guest’s own terms. LEVEN’s red brick walls and Crittall windows hold a rich history dating back to Manchester’s industrial past, including former uses first as a cotton warehouse, and more recently a brewery and comedy club. Following an extensive interior and exterior reimagining, the 33,000 sq ft property opened for soft launch in October 2021 as a design-led, 42-key hotel.

LEVEN is a brand new lifestyle hotel concept, and is a joint venture between Manchester-born entrepreneurs, brothers Joshua and Ben Senior, and industry innovators Wellbrook Hospitality.

well-brook.com

Inghams announces savings on austrian ski hotels

Long-awaited ski holidays to Austria can now be picked up for less! Inghams, the trusted ski holiday experts that started taking people on package ski holidays to Austria more than 80 years ago, have recently launched £50pp off some of Inghams’ favourite ski hotels – available on all dates this coming winter.

As the trusted tour operator have prided themselves on doing right by their customers throughout the pandemic, this coming winter, Inghams will be taking people on ski holidays for the first time since March 2020. Inghams are only travelling to destinations when the Foreign Common Development Office (FCDO) advises it is safe to do so. This combined with their covid-19 refund policy and the safety measures they’ve put in place, continues to offer people that extra peace of mind when booking a holiday with the tour operator.

inghams.co.uk

The Luxury Collection Debuts in Spain’s Enthralling Capital

Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid offers global explorers immersive luxury in the heart of the city

The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, has announced the opening of Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid, marking The Luxury Collection’s debut in the fabled city.

Located in the traditional aristocratic district of Chamberí, the hotel serves as a gateway to Madrid’s most exciting and desirable experiences and is just steps away from an array of cultural attractions, including the Sorolla Museum, charming flamenco shows at the Teatros del Canal and Andén 0 Metro Station, an exhibition space in a restored tube station. The historic building, with an intriguing past dating back to the 18th century, served as the former residence of the Duke of Santo Mauro.

An emblematic oasis in the heart of Madrid, the guestrooms, public areas, restaurants, and gardens have all undergone a thoughtful renovation. The property consists of three buildings surrounded by pristine gardens with centuries-old chestnut trees, all of which can be admired from the hotel’s enchanting garden terrace. Adorned with elegant custom furniture and art pieces, the 49-guestroom property features ten magnificent suites offering select outdoor balconies overlooking the hotel’s lush greenery.

Elevated Palatial Interiors
At the helm of the transformation, renowned interior designer Lorenzo Castillo, ensured the next chapter of the building’s journey honoured its Spanish heritage through stunning décor that reflects the hotel’s remarkable location in the heart of Madrid. Guests residing at the hotel will be enthralled by the opulent, clean design details as each renovated space provokes a sense of unparalleled authenticity.

The guestrooms have been refreshed with natural materials such as stone, marble and wood. Furnishings of plush leather, midnight blue velvet and silk have been introduced to bring a modern but elegant feel to the renovated palace. A colour palette of neutral earthy tones ensures a balance between traditional warmth and add a modern touch throughout the palatial guestrooms and suites.

Steeped in history, the hotel’s interiors evoke that of a Spanish noble house of the 18th century, which often saw styles of design collide. Eras effortlessly coexist, from the Georgian English Library complete with warm oak shelving, vibrant green and gold velvets to The Chinese Lounge displaying a graceful mix of oriental influences, with wall coverings and fabrics in different rich chinoiserie patterns. Sophisticated tones of black and gold lacquered furniture, and Qing Dynasty portraits adorn the walls throughout the property nodding to the decorative taste of the building’s illustrious past owners.

“Madrid is simultaneously a spirited, modern metropolis and a place of discovery imbued with the rich history of the Spanish capital,” said Philipp Weghmann, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection. “The destination is a natural fit for The Luxury Collection and our global explorers who seek immersive cultural experiences, and we cannot wait to welcome them at Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid.”

A True Epicurean Destination
A city of grand gastronomic culture, the hotel introduces acclaimed Chef Rafael Peña, who has honed his skills in some of the world’s best kitchens and owns his own popular restaurant, Gresca, in Barcelona. Rafael will take over the culinary concept at La Biblioteca and El Jardin and present menus inspired by the meals of noble houses with sensational tasting menus and dedicated offerings for the Spanish ritual of late breakfast and the afternoon snack ‘La Merienda’. As the name hints, La Biblioteca is home to treasured books and antiques, providing an inviting atmosphere of effortless sophistication to serve couples, families, friends, and groups alike.

Those looking for a more relaxed dining experience can unwind in El Jardin, the garden of Santo Mauro, which offers a stunning, new outdoor terrace. For after-dinner drinks, El Bar is the perfect spot to seek out serving cocktails and snacks designed to perfectly pair with each drink.

Wellness and Relaxation
This tranquil escape from the city comes complete with an indoor pool, perfect for those who want to unwind after a day of exploring Madrid’s bustling centre. A new spa and fitness area will debut as a part of the second phase of the renovations, which is set to commence in summer 2022.

Exceptional Meeting and Event Spaces
With the hotel’s grand architecture providing the perfect backdrop, Santo Mauro is poised to welcome all occasions from business meetings to special events with seven spaces to choose from. A part-outdoor event space is also set to be revealed in summer 2022.

marriott.com/hotels

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines introduces Made for Life Organics aboard new ships to offer inclusive spa experience

Fred. Olsen has become the first cruise line to partner with wellbeing experts Made for Life Organics, to offer inclusive spa experiences including for those living with long-term health conditions.

New ships Bolette and Borealis will be the first in the fleet to offer the new rituals, which will include meditative back, body and scalp treatments and facials, suitable for those with sensitive skin and living with cancer.

Made for Life Organics was launched in Cornwall in 2003 and developed advanced Cancer Touch Therapy training, enabling people going through cancer to receive the therapeutic benefits of touch. Treatments and training are approved and accredited by the Standards Authority for Touch in Cancer Care, the Complementary Medical Association and CIBTAC (The Confederation of International Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology).

The Made for Life Treatments will also be introduced into the spas aboard Balmoral and Braemar.

fredolsencruises.com

Two Michelin-Star experience at the Pavilions Phuket with Chef Christian Herrgesell

Former head chef of World’s 50 Best restaurant, Tim Raue, Chef Christian Herrgesell will host two gastronomic events at the luxury resort on 14 and 15 January 2022

This January, The Pavilions Phuket welcomes culinary director and former head chef from two Michelin-star restaurant Tim Raue, Chef Christian Herrgesell, over two days for a unique gastronomic experience for guests at the resort. From 14-15 January 2022, Chef Christian Herrgesell will take up residency at The Pavilions Phuket to present two specially crafted evenings of gastronomic delights, combining the diversity of Asian cuisine with the distinct culinary signature of one of Europe’s top chefs.

Christian Herrgesell has over 20 years’ experience in gastronomy, including ten years working with one of Germany’s most-decorated and flamboyant restauranteurs, Tim Raue, as head chef of his eminent Berlin restaurant Tim Raue. The two Michelin-starred restaurant has held a spot in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants since 2014, currently at #31, and has featured on Netflix’s Emmy-nominated series, Chef’s Table. During his time with Tim Raue, Christian not only served as head chef and culinary director in the flagship restaurant in Berlin, but also operated the opening of 13 restaurants around the World, including concepts in Dubai, St. Moritz and Sylt.

The Pavilions Phuket – image courtesy of Pavilions Hotels

On 14 and 15 January 2022, Christian will be hosting two exclusive culinary evenings at The Pavilions Phuket, where he will showcase an Asian-inspired philosophy that fuses exceptional Japanese product quality, classical French cooking techniques and exotic Thai fragrances and flavours. The first night will see guests treated to a ‘Tipsy Tapas’ evening at the resort’s 360 Bar, where innovative dishes include pork belly Sichuan style and salmon, spicy tomato & somtam. The following evening, Christian will present a six-course degustation dinner at the resort’s award-winning The Plantation Club, where menu highlights include five-spice short-rib beef with sweet potato; steamed cod with creamy wasabi and watercress salad; and a Thai mango-passionfruit soup and coconut rice milk foam.

Nestled high in the hills above Layan Beach, The Pavilions Phuket offers a range of 95 luxurious accommodations from private pool villas to spacious suites. Guests can enjoy two award-winning restaurants with gourmet cuisine prepared by an exceptionally skilled culinary team, a panoramic sunset view hilltop bar, state-of-the-art amenities including a spa and wellness centre and one of the largest free-form pools in Phuket.

14 January – Chef Christian Tipsy Tapas & Sunset
360 Bar, from 5pm | 4-Tapas set THB 850 inclusive of a glass of Taittinger Champagne

15 January – Chef Christian 6-course Discovery Menu & Wine Pairing The Plantation Club, 7pm | THB 5,300 (Early bird booking before 01/01/202: THB 4,300)

pavilionshotels.com/phuket

Fairmont Maldives Unwraps Star Chef Line-up and EuropeanMichelin-Cuisine this Festive Season

Offering a tantalising tropical escape this festive season, Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi will play host to three celebrated and Michelin-awarded chefs – Alexandre Demand, Mickael Viljanen and Alfredo Russo – each creating a bespoke degustation menu to be enjoyed exclusively by island guests throughout December and January.

Chef Alexandra Demard

Alexandre Demard
Dates: 23rd – 28th December (Azure) / 31st December (Kata)

One of France’s most sought-after chefs, Alexandre Demand is best known for spearheading menus at various Michelin-starred restaurants across the country. A graduate of the Paul Augier Hotel School in Nice, most recently Alexandre has been quietly pushing the boundaries of gastronomy atOxygen Dining Room in the Cross Chiang Mai Riverside Hotel in Thailand. Taking diners on a culinary journey with a twist, Demard creates a modern exploration of Thai food through a French perspective. For Demard, food is a “combination of creativity, respect for the produce, and a passion of flavours.”, a mantra that has won him numerous accolades, including a Michelin Plate.

Inviting guests to savour his Thai-inspired dishes, Demard will be serving up a six-course set menu at Fairmont’s Azure over Christmas and taking over Kata for a New Year’s Eve feast.

PRICING:
• £113 food supplement per person
• £75 wine pairing per person

Chef Mikael Viljanen

Mikael Viljanen
Dates: 29th December – 3rd January (Azure)

Joining Fairmont Maldives over New Year’s, Mickael Viljanen is one of only four chefs in Ireland to be awarded two Michelin stars. Celebrated for his sublime craft, technical precision, and masterful manipulation of flavours, Viljanen is the Chef-Patron of the multi-award-winning restaurant Chapter One in Dublin. Working in kitchens since he was 14, Mickael moved to Ireland in 2000 from Finland, where he grew up via France and the United Kingdom. Viljanen’s sophisticated cooking features stimulating flavour combinations and a nod to traditional Finnish dishes whilst placing seasonal Irish produce centre stage.

Guests of Fairmont Maldives can reign in the New Year and enjoy Mickael Viljanen’s elegant and complex creations with a six-course menu paired with fine wines from around the world, set in the Azure restaurant.

PRICING:
• £113 food supplement per person
• £75 wine pairing per person

Chef Alfredo Russo

Alfredo Russo
Dates: 10th – 15th January (Azure)

Bringing his culinary skillset to the Maldives in January, Alfredo Russo is one of Italy’s leading chefs. Utilising modern techniques, Russo’s cooking is strongly influenced by classic cuisine, local ingredients, and culinary trends, gaining him numerous accolades. Further to opening his first restaurant Dolce Stil Novo in 1990, he was recognised as the Best Young Italian Chef by the Espresso Guide in 2004 and has since earned a total of 27 Michelin Stars. His acclaimed kitchen and unique style have led to collaborations with celebrated restaurants, including Gran Hotel et de Milan, where he led the hotel in a new culinary direction and the publication of several cookery books. With five restaurants in his international portfolio, Russo has gained a global reputation, and his dishes are treasured by many.

Russo will take over the resort’s Azure restaurant in the New Year, creating a Michelin Star menu for guests to enjoy, alongside a selection of fine wines.

PRICING:
• £150 food supplement per person
• £113 wine pairing per person

Home to three epicurean restaurants, from ocean-fresh seafood at Azure and traditional Maldivian dishes at Raha to Japanese inspired cuisine at overwater dining destination Kata, Fairmont Maldives is a culinary destination in its own right. Set in the heart of the resort, laid-back cocktail bar Onu Onu is the perfect destination to sip on colourful concoctions as the sun sets over the azure water and, for a truly intimate experience, guests can enjoy a private dinner on the beach at starlight, accompanied by a soundtrack of lapping waves.

fairmont-maldives.com/michelinstarchefs

A Picture Perfect Christmas at Hotel Crillon Le Brave, Provence

Open for the First Time Over Christmas

Image: Hotel Crillon Le Brave © Mr. Tripper

Maisons Pariente has announced that it will be welcoming guests to Crillon Le Brave  this season, the property will open for Christmas and New Year for the first time providing a cosy Provencal getaway.

Located in the heart of Provence, Crillon Le Brave is the splendid 5-star hideaway reserved for guests who are disconnecting from city lights and fast paced life. The hotel is open to guests over Christmas and New Year to celebrate in pure luxury with loved ones without having a worry in the world.

Guests can enjoy a festive and New Year dinner at La Table du Ventoux, alongside a magic show for an evening of great surprises in the idyllic setting of Crillon le Brave. Surrounded by vineyards and breath-taking views, Hotel Crillon Le Brave offers a luxury, slow paced setting for a stay with the scents of Provence.

Nightly rates at Crillon Le Brave start from 350 Euros on a bed & breakfast basis.

crillonlebrave.com