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- Forte dei Marmi: Where Rich Italians Go To Play
Sun, vineyards, olives, and incredible pasta - these are just a few of the small things you can enjoy on a trip to the beautiful region of Tuscany, Italy. But, if you want to see where Italians go to vacation themselves, Tuscany’s chicest seaside resort, Forte dei Marmi, should be on your itinerary. Situated in a spectacular setting, between the Apuan Alps and the Mediterranean sea, Forte dei Marmi has something that separates it from the rest of the Versilia; it oozes glamour. The small town is the perfect place for those who love pottering around high-fashion boutiques, eating at Michelin star restaurants, and attending exclusive beach clubs. So, it should come at no surprise that Forte dei Marmi is often called a playground for the rich Italians. In recent years, royalty, politicians, and celebrities - with the likes of Giorgio Armani, Andrea Bocelli and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy - have all purchased holiday homes here. Hotel Byron, an intimate 5* aristocratic villa that overlooks the sea and is surrounded by a private gardens. Despite being one of the the region’s landmark hotels, Byron has managed to maintain the character of a small historic residence, offering its guests the quiet atmosphere of a private home. Hotel Byron is home to 29 rooms and suites, many of which have been recently renovated. The rooms' calming sky blue and white interiors help to create a bright and spacious environment; perfect after a relaxing day at Hotel Byron's private beach club. Equipped with all the latest technology, the hotel has enlarged some of its rooms, making them suitable for families and couples looking for more space. Works by resident artists are displayed around the hotel, including a teddy bear stabbed through the heart with a breadknife, sculpted from the local Carrara marble – the same marble used by Canova and Michelangelo. However, the jewel in this hotel’s crown is the penthouse, with a stunning private pool and terrace overlooking the sea – it is nearly impossible to find anything like this elsewhere in Forte dei Marmi! Hotel Byron owns its own beach club, just a minute's walk from your bedroom door, with an added option of requesting a picnic to be sent to your sun lounger for lunch. And whilst we are on the subject... Hotel Byron is home to its own Michelin star chef, Marco Bernardo. Marco has previously worked at the Four Seasons Hotel Milano and Le George Four Seasons Hotel in Paris. Now, he works at Restaurant La Magnolia, Byron's private and luxurious 1 star Michelin restaurant. Restaurant La Magnolia offers a rich culinary experience, and also accommodated vegetarian and gluten-free diners, as well as offering a world-class selection of wines. Breakfast is always included in your stay, and is served on the terrace, overlooking the rich gardens. With a selection of fresh pastries, bread, and english breakfast items, you will never be lost for choice. Guests at Hotel Byron are able to use their free bicycles to travel to and from the town or beach within a matter of seconds or minutes. Cycle into town and have a quick stop for a scoop of gelato at La Chicca, whilst browsing the latest season at Prada, Chanel and Fendi. Forte dei Marmi is a 35 minute drive from Pisa airport, or if you fancy taking the train, it is 45 minutes from Pisa Centrale. Stays at Hotel Byron start at €450 per night. To book your stay, please visit www.hotelbyron.net. A special thank you to Arthouse PR for organising our stay.
- Arteriors x Laura Kirar: Modern Mediterranean Interiors for 2024
Arteriors expands its decade-long partnership with globally acclaimed designer Laura Kirar to release a 25 piece collection for SS24. Laura Kirar for Arteriors presents an array of mirrors, lighting, seating, storage, and accessories that exude a relaxed formality inspired by Mediterranean coastal living. An artist at her core, Kirar draws on multiple touchpoints of inspiration for the collection, including exotic plants, regional craftsmanship techniques, and cultural norms from bygone eras. The assortment is at once ethereal – in some cases, Kirar’s designs are intentionally abstract to evoke an interpretation that’s entirely personalized to the collector – and grounded, anchored by the usage of handsome materials and geometric design details. “Throughout our relationship, Arteriors has consistently empowered me to explore what’s happening now and what I predict for the future to inform my designs,” says Kirar. “My work is very much inspired by the world and how we interpret it – the interplay of exterior observations and the meaning we derive as individuals. This collection is meant to speak to distant memories, allowing the collector to reminisce and feel a personal connection to another way of life.” Dubbed by Kirar as a “visual diary,” the collection features multiple series bearing unique inspiration points that come together in a cohesive, decorative language. The result is a compilation of furnishings that can each stand alone as a unique art piece or complement one another in a suite. The assortment is united by recurring geometric motifs and the usage of materials that speak to the natural world, including capiz shell veneer, river stone, mango wood, and rattan, and accented by bold, textured brass. The collection as a whole celebrates the details of casually curated Mediterranean interiors while incorporating the region’s influences of aged formal furniture. An allusion to seaside life is made with the Caracol Mirror and its sophisticated frame of twisted white rope; this same undulating pattern can be seen on the Serpiente Lamp in cast brass. Sturdy but artfully carved wood defines the Vargueño Dining Table and plushly upholstered Vargueño Chair. The Mar series – a Floor Lamp, Chandelier, Credenza, Centerpiece, and Tray – feature playfully theatrical woven palm forms as a nod to the mix of elegance and tempered formality that defined the 1930s. The Empire series with its brass construction is the jewelry of the collection, featuring hints of origami and geometry to bring forth a historic sense of artistic influence. Kirar first partnered with Arteriors in 2010 and has developed seven collections in partnership with the brand. One of her most beloved designs is the Caviar Pendant, first released in 2010 and reinterpretted numerous times over the last decade with new finishes and configurations. Drawing Inspiration from underwater bubbles, sealife, and as seen in its name, caviar, the pendant is still widely popular today “As our inaugural guest designer, Laura has influenced the Arteriors product portfolio in profound ways,” says Barb Fuller, Vice President of Marketing & Visual Merchandising for Arteriors. “Her newest collection is not only a beautiful addition to our fall line, but a great representation of our collaboration throughout the years as she continues to push the envelope on creative, thoughtful design. I’m looking forward to seeing how our customers interpret these pieces as their own.” The Laura Kirar for Arteriors collection debuts as part of the brand’s SS24 collection, which includes a total of 284 offerings across furniture, lighting and wall décor, and accessories. The full assortment is defined by Arteriors’ signature use of creative silhouettes, quality handcrafted materials, and thoughtful details. Available from February at Arteriors’ showroom in Chelsea Hearbour’s Design Centre. Unit 206, Design Centre East. See more at: https://www.arteriorshome.com/shop/guest-designers/laura-kirar
- Top 5 home upgrades that’ll boost the value of your home in 2024
London estate agent, Grant Bates, has revealed the top 5 home upgrades that’ll boost the value of your home in 2024 – with the best return for your wallet. From the return of ‘avocado’ colour schemes to hotel-style bathrooms, Grant’s expertise comes in response to new research by renovation platform, Beams, which has revealed that three quarters (78%) of us would rather ‘improve, than move’ this year – but the majority (61%) are unsure which home upgrades will add the most value to their homes. But, what are the interior trends for 2024, and how much value will they actually add to your home? 🛁 HOTEL STYLE BATHROOMS AND PRINCIPAL SUITES: “We all spent more time at home in the last couple of years and started to upgrade our spaces, leading to a boom in hotel-style living. This can particularly be seen with bathrooms, and people are increasingly demanding design-led sanctuaries to escape to. I’d advise you to go bold with the aesthetic to give the wow factor (avocado is back!) and look for simple upgrades like double sinks and separate toilets for a touch of practical luxury. If you have the space, why not integrate the bathroom with a wardrobe & bedroom to create a sumptuous principal suite; by far the most sought after feature in properties right now.” 🔨 LAY THE FOUNDATIONS: “When you set out to renovate, it can be easy to skip to the ‘fun bits’ of design and style. But to maximise your ROI, make sure you’re working with trusted contractors, and you’re sourcing good quality materials from reputable third parties. Beams are godsend, and can do this for you, dealing with all the nitty gritty details that can slip through the cracks in a busy life and guaranteeing flawless, top-quality results”. 🍳KITCHENS THAT ARE THE HEART OF THE HOME: “If you have the budget to transform one space, it should be the one that we all spend the most time in; the kitchen. Buyers are impressed by light and lateral spaces, and I’ve spotted a huge trend towards maximising storage to make life easier, think pantries and utility rooms, people are willing to pay a premium for them. And likewise, if you have a spare nook, try and embed a WFH spot there and really make it the heart of the home.” 💚GREEN UPGRADES: “A third of homeowners say that they want to cut their bills with energy efficient renovations, and they’re good for the planet too. Renovations are one of the best times to make your home greener and there are lots of ways to do this, for example updating your windows in line with Energy Performance Certificate requirements - something I get asked about a lot or using recycled construction materials. Ahead of renovating, Beams offers a free home energy assessment to identify where to invest.” 🎨SPACE WITH PERSONALITY: “The homes that I sell that hit the biggest premiums have one thing in common; they’re all design led, and their owners have let their individual characters shine through. Avoid here today, gone tomorrow trends, but renovate in a style that you love. That’s where designers like Beams’ expert team come in. They work closely with their clients to ensure that they co-create a space that they’ll love to live in.”
- Tinwood Estate: British Wines At Their Best
“No one said growing grapes was going to be easy,” chuckles Art Tukker as he spoke amongst the vines during a wine tour of his 85-acre estate. With what has been the wettest May on record, a small group of us are lucky that the rain is able to hold out during our tour. The Tinwood Estate, situated a short drive from the sweet town of Chichester, is focused, with a business-as-usual mentality, despite having an unsavoury start to the season with a late Springtime frost in mid-April harming around 10-15 per cent of its fruit. “We are very lucky in comparison to our competitors across the pond, who have devastatingly lost 50-60 per cent of their fruit due to the budding of their vines." As many of us have attempted to grow our own and experiment with new hobbies in the last few years due to COVID-19, it is clear that wine production should be left to the professionals. In just a brief introduction to the vineyard and its process, one can appreciate the dedication that is needed to create a product that can weather any storm. Art’s passion for nurturing his land has meant that the landscape doesn’t just give him what he needs, but is also supported by his attempts to cultivate a new biodiversity into the soil. He adds passionately, “If we help to look after the landscape, the landscape will look after us.” Art pridefully adds that this now verdant landscape of vines was once a lettuce farm, handed down to the next generation of farmers ready to see what this land had to offer. Although the idea of successful English vineyards are still somewhat underappreciated, there is a real air of respect emerging for UK wine producers now. No longer are they fighting to be taken seriously amongst wines produced in regions of France like Champagne and Burgundy. There is more than meets the eye with this Sussex landscape and at Tinwood Estate, their three varieties of wine will win you over with just a sip. Grown amongst gravel and shards of flint, Art explains that this terrain provides a natural drainage system to allow water to pass through the crops steadily. Layers of pure chalk amongst the soil also contribute to the fresh mineral flavour of the Chardonnay. The English have the most important job of all, drinking all their produce. With a world-class grape to use in the process, comes a world-class trio of sparkling wines to sample. Vineyard tours take 90 minutes and offer an insight into the winemaking process. But most exciting of all, included in the tour is a tasting, accompanied by a cheese board and light bites. Raise your glass and pick your favourite wine; Blanc de Blancs a dry, pale Chardonnay with a clean finish, Brut Sparkling Wine with a fruiter palette to accompany its fuller flavour due to it being made up of roughly 45% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir and 20% Pinot Meunier and finally the Rosé Sparkling Wine that has a beautifully refreshing Pinot nose, adding aromas of sweet raspberry and redcurrant. For those of you who wish to stay longer and take in the expansive views of the vineyard can book tickets for the pop-up dinners that are available throughout the year. Art adds, “We get different guest chefs in to create five-course meals. These are larger-scale events and we do lots of private parties. We really are a party venue. We do our vineyard tours during the day, and then by 6pm we throw the doors open for a big party.” Sparkling Afternoon Teas are also held on the first Wednesday of each month throughout the summer. The afternoon teas will include a guided vineyard tour, full Tinwood tasting (3 glasses) and afternoon tea. The menu includes finger sandwiches, plain & fruit scones, macaroons, chocolate brownies, flapjack, fresh fruit tartlets, chocolate-coated strawberries & Ferrero Rocher. Nightly rates start from £195 per night for 2 people including breakfast. Daily vineyard tours and wine tasting start from £18 pp and run daily at 3pm, and on Saturdays at both 12pm and 3pm. Sparkling Afternoon tea is £49pp, including tour, tasting (3 glasses) and food. Visit the online shop or for further booking information: tinwoodestate.com
- Vegetarian Restaurant: The Gate, Marylebone
As someone who has more recently moved to a plant-based lifestyle, my journey to find the best vegan restaurants has been a mission I have gladly accepted. Whilst I have been eating my way across the city, there is one thing I have noticed about the dining experience; There is nothing more satisfying than a menu that doesn’t discriminate with vegan dishes. Gone are the days of only being able to choose one item from the menu. Although some restaurants still have a way to go, The Gate restaurants allow vegetarians and vegans to enjoy a full menu with a variety of options. Much like a child who doesn’t know how to spend their money in a toy shop, I am left browsing the menu for a good 20 minutes, a luxury experience that I want to savour every minute of, because it doesn’t happen all that often. Should I try the Miso Glazed Aubergine or the Truffle and Mushroom Arancini as my starter or go straight for the Braised Fennel and Pumpkin Tagine? The Gate’s original venue in Hammersmith opened over 30 years ago and is located in a stunning former artist’s studio with a beautiful Secret Garden. The flagship restaurant has been visited by notable names such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Stella McCartney and Madonna. It’s Marylebone restaurant, however, offers a relaxed ambience, with welcoming staff and comfortable indoor and outdoor seating. Located in the heart of Seymour Place, it provides the perfect destination for guests to step a few streets back from touristy Oxford Circus and Marble Arch. Sample a refined plant-based offering, that has a menu so exciting you’ll have to book a reservation again soon. From start to finish The Gate offers vegan-friendly takes on classic dishes with a vegetarian or vegan twist. Make sure to also browse their extensive list of natural and organic wines as dishes can be paired nicely with wines on the menu. The Green Dragon Salad with glazed smoked tofu, avocado, sweet potato, red cabbage, pak choi with a teriyaki & sesame dressing can only be described as to-die-for and a must, if not for yourself but to share amongst friends. For something that packs a bit more heat, the Red Thai Curry should not be missed. Uniquely wrapped and served on a banana leaf, this dish combines baby corn, mange tout, shiitake mushrooms and sweet potato and is accompanied by sticky basmati rice. Sides are also essential and although you may struggle to find room to eat them in their entirety, the Chunky Herb Polenta Chips are a must to share. For dessert, you simply must not miss out on the Mango and Passionfruit Cheesecake. It’s both sharp and rich with every mouthful and despite being well and truly full after two courses, there is nothing but crumbs left on the plate. Success!
- Parga: The Hidden Beauty of Mainland Greece
There’s something very special about Greece, not least the abundance of the mainland and its surrounding islands. Located on the coastline of northwestern Greece in the Preveza, Parga Beach Resort provides its guests with everything the Greek islands are celebrated for, from pristine sandy beaches and bright blue waters to impressive ruins and exceptional fresh food. Parga Beach Resort is a thoughtful collection of beachfront properties and apartments overlooking the bay, facing out towards the hillside of the old town. This resort, despite its recent expansion, feels cosy and familial. The staff here welcome you with open arms and, from the minute you check-in, you are invited to relax and unwind. Lofty suites and bungalow-style accommodations are dotted around the resort’s beautifully kept gardens. With 23 new luxury suites unveiled this year, each fully equipped with a private balcony and terrace, and some with their very own private plunge pool, these private Maison Suites are perfect for families looking for extra space, as well as couples wanting more privacy by the pool. These suites provide the feel of your very own villa, but with the additional joys of resort hospitality. Even throughout the late summer months and into September and October, occupancy is over 60 per cent, meaning that the hotel retains a charming ambience throughout the days and evenings. The resort works favourably for families and is even more popular for this demographic, thanks to its additional kids’ club, games room and outdoor playground. Wellness is also a key focus within the resort, with their tempting offerings of hammam baths, as well as couples and single massages, plus several wellness corners scattered around the resort grounds. Stepping further towards the water, you’ll notice just how breathtaking this location is. There are perfectly sandy stretches of beach in this cove, with plenty of marine life to explore around the shoreline. Watersports activities are also on tap for guests to enjoy: whether you prefer something leisurely like a day boat trip, or an adrenaline-fuelled activity like parasailing or jet skiing, there are lots of activities to try. It is also easy to enjoy a slower-paced trip to Parga by foot and take in the natural landscape in this region. Explore the remains of the Venetian Castle, which can be accessed through the town’s narrow alleys. This hilltop historical site sits on the peninsula of the bay and, as well as having panoramic views to Chrisogiali beach and around to Portu Parge, it’s a mere 20-minute walk from the resort. Views from the castle look out onto the Ionian sea, as well as to the Island of Panagia, which features a private church building. Wander further into the town to soak up the local culture on a walking tour of Parga with Anna Piliou and Evrinomi Zavra. Wander through the cobbled back streets of the town and eat some local, homemade treats along the way. Wine tasting and educational itineraries are also available with this private tour. Exclusive excursions are a wonderful additional consideration during a stay at Parga Beach Resort and are available to organise during your stay by the hotel. A boat trip arranged by the resort allows you to drink in all the surrounding coastline. Hop to Paxos and Antipaxos by boat and swim around the caves and bright blue bays of these pristine islands, making sure to stop off at a local taverna for lunch. Back at the resort, there is plenty to enjoy during the day. If you prefer sunning yourself by the pool, you have four to choose from, each offering a different feel. For those who like to stay active during their stay, private yoga sessions are available; alternatively, work out in the gym facility located next to the spa. Hungry? There are two key restaurants on the Parga Beach Resort wa- waterfront. Thalassa has a buffet-style breakfast in the morning and serves up a delectable assortment of Greek specialities during lunch, so expect lots of incredible traditional bites, including colourful Greek Salads, freshly sourced calamari and melt-in-the-mouth vegetable moussaka. Those wanting to dine under the stars and delight in a fine dining experience should make tracks to Alselēa. This open-air restaurant features a premium menu of Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist and flawless service. Wine pairings throughout this dining experience are exceptional. Dining here is further enhanced by live music, played as part of the resort’s special themed nights. Private dining can also be arranged here for an exclusive gastronomy experience designed just for you. A Greek Tasting session, featuring favourite dishes from the restaurant, is set up under an intimate veranda and comprises of four carefully curated courses. Highlighted options include a starter of Sea Bass carpaccio, with chilli oregano and virgin olive oil served with prosecco, as well as Scanavino: a modest portion of rich Reviola, stuffed with pumpkin, halloumi cheese, raisins and red forest fruits and then baked in sage butter, paired carefully with a Idylle rosé. For desserts, a classic aromatic honey spirit is served. Originating from Crete, this classic aperitif balances the rich sweetness of the Date with orange ice cream and saffron. Rates start from 120€ on a B&B in low season and from 300€ on a B&B basis during high season. For more information visit https://www.pargabeachresort.gr/
- Ski and The City: Innsbruck, Austria Has It All
Innsbruck has a lot to offer, even at the tail end of the winter/ski season. Typically in other resorts, when the snow is dwindling, there can be limited things to do. However, it was March, and the buzzing city proved to be the perfect end-of-season location. From The Nordkettenbahnen cable railway that takes you from the city centre to Alpine Peak, to panoramic breakfast views at the top of the Bergisel ski jump, Innsbruck has plenty to offer besides skiing - so if you prefer skiing holidays that allow you to escape from the slopes for a moment, this Austrian city may just be the perfect place for you. When it comes to masterfully soaking up this Austrian city in all its glory, staying in the central hub is preferred. Stage12 by Hotel Penz is an elegant 120 room hotel situated downtown, within walking distance of all the main shops and restaurants, it offers a fun city buzz and its bar is a local favourite, serving elevated cocktails and bar snacks. Stage12 also has its very own spa, which guests can use at their leisure after a long day in the city or on the slopes. What Austria manages to achieve exceptionally is its snowsports scene. For those itching to still take to the slopes can do so and take advantage of the quiet, end of season runs. Up in the mountains, you’re met with a microclimate ideal for enjoying perfect winter sports activities, without being too cold. The resort’s hotels also offer a ski-in and ski-out service, opening the door to a choice of runs, with blues, reds, and blacks, located on both sides of the valley and a beginners’ area, so there is something for all abilities. Well-prepared cross-country ski runs are also available with a mix of wide intermediate and beginner trails making for a reliable place to enjoy your chosen winter sport, catering for both classic and skating styles. There’s also a chance to try a great variety of alternative snow sports, including snow shoeing, an adventurous way to explore more of the wooded areas of the mountains, where towering trees and ice-cold streams are found. Axamer Lizum is another Wintersport winner and is just a short 30-minute drive from the centre of Innsbruck. The resort has hosted the Winter Olympics twice and has the largest ski area near the Capital of the Alps, with 40 kilometres of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy their turns into April thanks to Axamer Lizum’s elevation at 2,340 metres, its north-facing location, and advanced snow-making facilities, with easy travel links allowing UK visitors to hit the slopes just a few hours after leaving home. The Axamer Lizum resort is also home to Hoadl-Haus, a restaurant which has the largest covered sun terrace in Austria giving a breathtaking view of Innsbruck and the surrounding mountains. While skiing is a huge attraction for thousands of tourists each year, the city is still eager for you to take in some of its less obvious attractions. Exploring Innsbruck, you will stumble across its modern shopping district, traditional Strudel Cafes and Baroque architecture. The futuristic Nordkette Funicular, designed by female architect Zaha Hadid transports you up the mountain side, offering panoramic views over the city and beyond until you reach the top where the restaurant Seegrube by DoN welcomes you with a wide selection of regional culinary delights. Visitors to Innsbruck are often surprised at just how close the city is to the mountains, and with this panoramic funicular, it has never been easier to reach the top at an altitude of 2,300 metres. Visitors can experience the variety and take in Innsbruck’s unique blend of imperial and modern attractions, cafes, culture, and much more, all against a stunning mountain backdrop. The vibrant city atmosphere and sightseeing highlights are just a stone’s throw from your next biking or hiking tour. The Welcome Card, which is incentivised in Innsbruck, is free for visitors and is the key to the region’s boundless opportunities: public transport, usable at no cost, means that the area’s numerous highlights can be enjoyed both sustainably and comfortably. Breakfast at the Bergisel Jump will certainly leave you with a newfound appreciation for the sheer scale of the 250 metre Olympic jump. This cobra-shaped slope was designed by Zaha Hadid and stands tall in the city, symbolising the city’s Olympic roots. An inclined elevator will take you to a rooftop restaurant, where you can enjoy a traditional Austrian breakfast with meats, cheeses and pastries, all whilst taking in the jump. Each year, the Bergisel Jump hosts the Third Competition of the prestigious Four Hills Tournament. The appeal for visiting Innsbruck is almost certain, with its short-flight time and expansive itinerary filling activities on visitors’ doorsteps. It’s a versatile destination that caters to all, even at the end of season. Direct flights to Innsbruck are available from major airports across the UK, including Gatwick, Heathrow and Luton, as well as Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Manchester and Stansted. Rooms at Stage12 Hotel start from €140 to €300 per night including breakfast. Additional guests include a supplement of €40. For more details about the Welcome Card visit https://www.innsbruck.info/en/destinations/accommodation/welcome-card.html Information on holidays in Kühtai, can be found at https://www.innsbruck.info/en/destinations/location/kuehtai.html
- Tenuta del Buonamico: Italy's Best Kept Secret
Tuscany is one of the most famous and prolific wine regions in the world. Stay in the charming city of Florence, just a short drive from Chianti country, and you will find wineries with Michelin-starred restaurants, or set within luxurious resorts. And with famous brands like Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and Nobile di Montepulciano dominating the market, this small winery, Tenuta del Buonamico, has become one of Italy's best-kept secrets. The Buonamico Estate is located southwest of Montecarlo, in Tuscany, and covers just over 100 hectares, 48 of which are dedicated to their 'specialised' vines. The winery was founded by renowned restaurateurs from Turin in the early 1960s. But, today, the Estate is owned by the Fontana family, who have expanded the vineyards and upgraded the wine cellar. The Buonamico Estate offers guests the chance to visit the winery, and to sample wines and olive oils. The tour, which lasts approximately an hour and a half, and at the end, the wine tasting commences. And now, not only can you participate in visits and tastings, but you can also holiday at the resorts' luxe on-site hotel. This intimate resort has less than 15 rooms onsite, but they are extremely spacious and modern. Rooms have been tastefully decorated, and either have a terrace with a garden, or a balcony with a view, which overlook the beautiful mountains of Montecarlo. The infinity pool, surrounded by vineyards and olive trees, is the ideal place to relax while sunbathing and having a glass of wine. The spa has access to a rare Finnish sauna, a Turkish bath with Chromotherapy, an indoor jacuzzi, showers, and a relaxation area with herbal teas. Massages are also available upon request. Buonamico Wine Resort is the perfect private getaway for wine lovers and romantics, or for high-profile clients who want to relax away from the cameras. If you wanted, you wouldn't have to leave the resort, as the on-site restaurant Syrah is available for lunch and dinner, and breakfast is included in your stay. Rooms start at €200 per night and includes breakfast, free Wifi, Outdoor parking and access to the outdoor pool.
- The Top 7 Beauty Trends For 2024
And just like that, 2024 is here; and with it comes a brand-new rundown of the beauty trends that will change the way we care for our skin for good. Chosen by organic beauty favourites Green People, these are the trends to tick off your list, from superhero ceramides to fabulously fermented skincare. For nearly 30 years, Green People have been at the forefront of organic beauty. Brand founder Charlotte Vøhtz has been instrumental in the fight for genuine organic standards in the industry, long before it became a buzzword, having first started developing products in 1997 to tackle her daughter’s skin allergies and eczema. Green People was the very first beauty brand in the world to be certified organic in 2002 and now counts over 100 certified organic products in their range. 1. ORGANIC ALL THE WAY Did you know that so-called ‘natural’ and ‘organic’ cosmetics could contain over 99% man-made chemicals? As there is no legal definition, there is nothing stopping brands from claiming their products are natural or organic, even if only a tiny percentage of the ingredients are sourced organically. With savvy shoppers looking for proof that their products are as pure as they claim, the brand predicts certifications will be even more important in 2024. To make it even easier to spot what’s organic and what’s not, Green People’s fresh formulations hold COSMOS SA organic certification, an international standard that guarantees products are as responsible, natural and respectful to biodiversity as they claim. SHOP THE TREND: Gentle Cleanse & Make-Up Remover - £27.00 (150ml). A natural skincare staple for over 25 years, Green People’s pioneering organic cream cleanser is an everyday essential for fresh, clean complexions and is gentle enough for the most sensitive skin types. Enhanced with prebiotics, the brand’s new and improved formula is now certified COSMOS Organic so you can be sure this cream cleanser is as kind to your skin as it promises. 2. FERMENTED AND FABULOUS While fermented foods have long been proven to support gut health, 2024 is the year that fermented skincare will have its moment in the spotlight. A futuristic example of science and nature in balance, these skincare formulas use ingredients fermented by microorganisms. The fermentation process reduces their molecular size and makes it easier to absorb into the skin. SHOP THE TREND: Fruitful Nights Night Cream - £25.50 (50ml) Wake to brighter skin with Fruitful Nights Night Cream. Formulated to restore radiance whilst you rest, moisturising Bacillus Ferment Postbiotics support a stronger skin barrier by increasing skin hydration by 26% in just 1 hour while Inulin Prebiotics promote a healthy and balanced skin microbiome. 3. BUILD UP YOUR BARRIERS As the outermost part of our skin, the function of our skin barrier is to keep moisture in and irritants out. Unfortunately, it’s extremely vulnerable to damage from the likes of hard water, pollutants, detergents and skin-drying ingredients such as ethanol and harsh surfactants. When it becomes damaged and imbalanced, we can experience symptoms such as dryness, eczema, redness and irritation. SHOP THE TREND: Scent Free 24 Hour Cream - £25.50 (50ml) A hero product for sensitive skin, this unscented moisturiser cares naturally for your skin every hour of the day. Completely scent-free, it absorbs with ease to gently soothe away redness and irritation that can occur when our skin barrier is damaged. Ideal for when skin is in a state of stress, it contains protective Prebiotics and moisture-binding Cacay Oil to calm and nurture. 4. THE SECRET IS SPF The secret to younger skin? It might just be as simple as applying an SPF every day, regardless of whether the sun shines or not. A study by Australian researchers has shown that a daily application of SPF significantly reduces wrinkles and visible signs of ageing. The four-and-a-half-year study of over 900 people found that adults up to the age of 55 who were instructed to wear sun lotion daily, had 24% less skin ageing compared to those who applied it whenever they chose. SHOP THE TREND: Age Defy+ Daily SPF30 Moisturiser - £45.00 (30ml) A facial SPF that keeps skin fresh, firm and effectively protected against the visible signs of sun-induced skin ageing. SPF30 sun filters defend against sun rays while natural antioxidants neutralise free radical activity and help to protect skin cells from premature ageing. 5. MORE ON MICROBIOMES Human skin is a host to all sorts of microorganisms. Easily accessible and rich in lubricating oils, it’s a feeding and breeding ground for good and bad forms of bacteria and fungi which make up your skin’s microbiome. If it’s imbalanced, we can experience the side effects of too much bad bacteria, such as breakouts and body odour. Along with diet and lifestyle, the strength of your skin barrier and immune system plays a part in keeping bad bacteria suppressed and help good skin flora to flourish. SHOP THE TREND: Scent Free Facial SPF15 Sun Cream - £27.50 (50ml) A best buy for helping to balance your skin’s natural flora, this prebiotic-enriched facial SPF is designed to soothe, balance and protect sensitive skin. Prebiotics and Jojoba work in tandem to balance the skin’s microbiome, while SPF15 sun filters provide effective broad-spectrum protection. 6. SAY HELLO TO YOUR HORMONES Industry forecasters have predicted that hormonal-focused skincare will be a top trend in 2024. This essentially means products that support your skin’s needs as they change with hormonal shifts, be that related to your cycle, pregnancy or menopause. During perimenopause the level of oestrogen that the body produces declines. This hormone change affects both physical and mental health and can also disturb the balance of the skin. Along with itchy, flushed skin, many women also experience perimenopausal acne, especially on and around the chin. While hormone changes may be out of your control, choosing the right products may help to alleviate their effect on your skin. SHOP THE TREND: Age Defy+ Purifying Balancing Oil Serum - £31.00 (10ml) The anti-blemish drops of Age Defy+ Purifying Balancing Oil Serum allow you to personalise your perimenopausal skincare routine to meet your skin’s ever-changing needs. Simply apply a drop neat to spots or blemishes, or mix with your moisturiser to apply to all of your face. It features Jojoba Oil and Black Cumin Seed Oil, an ingredient that’s known to fight blemishes, clogged pores and inflammation, while Ginger Stem Cells are included for their mattifying properties. 7. LET’S TALK CERAMIDES There has been a 576% increase in global searches for ‘ceramide serum’ in the past five years, and 2024 is set to see the trend skyrocket even further. Ceramides are naturally present in the top layers of our skin and help to seal in hydration. A lack of ceramides can lead to dehydration which puts your skin at risk of irritation and discomfort. Ceramide levels decrease with age, meaning water can be easily lost from the skin’s surface, leading to more cracks, skin dehydration and discomfort. SHOP THE TREND: Nordic Roots Truffle Night Cream - £32.00 (50ml) This luxurious, natural ceramide moisturiser features Northern Truffle, a remarkable active found in Finnish forests, which has been clinically tested and shown to inhibit receptors in the skin responsible for inflammation, irritation, and pain. It enhances the tolerance to the many stresses that skin can encounter daily, including heat stress, pollution and irritants. All products are available from www.greenpeople.co.uk
- Get Snatched Cheekbones Without Going Under The Knife
We know about the snatched jawline - last year's biggest beauty goal - but what about a snatched cheekbone? One clinic claims they can redefine the architecture of your face without any knife or needles...and you can choose to get snatched at home or the clinic. Ellie Goulding, Fran Cutler and Caggie Dunlop have already had the world’s most in demand facial, but what is it? The LYMA LIFT finally fills the void between surgical lifting techniques and low-fi face yoga. Face yoga is huge right now, with Gen Z downloading face yoga apps to work out their facial muscles in their bathroom mirrors. Initial results can be impressive but miss a day and it sets you back...the results simply don’t last. The LYMA LIFT, however, is the brainchild of a facial palsy plastic surgeon with a deep understanding of the facial structure, connective tissue, and muscle alignment. The result of this unique anatomical knowledge is a re-education of facial muscle memory for a natural facial lift with long-lasting results - something never before achieved without a scalpel. “The LYMA LIFT is designed to be the ultimate facial, combining state-of-the-art skincare with manual conditioning of the muscles of facial expression and all subject to the incredible regenerative potential of the LYMA Laser. This protocol is designed to promote a naturally taught, tension-free face brimming with youthful vigour,” says Dr Graeme E. Glass, Plastic Surgeon, Associate Professor of Surgery, and Associate Professor of Clinical Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College, who is responsible for developing this world-first facial protocol. The LYMA LIFT consists of four key steps to deliver the enviable sculpted look: Lifting – through sweeping and kneading motions, lymph nodes are drained, blood flow is improved, and toxins in muscle fibres are broken down. Sculpting – a combination of acupressure and sweeping motions are used to release tension, improve blood flow, and warm muscles, significantly reducing puffiness and contouring the face. Invigorating – firm and targeted motions encourage muscle memory to enhance results, release and remobilise the fascia, softening fine lines and smoothing out tension. Pioneering – the treatment is finished with the application of LYMA Skincare, a world first epigenetic skin science in a two-part protocol, to empower the skin and aid the transformational results. HOW TO GET YOUR CHEEKBONES SNATCHED AT HOME… The latest advancement in intuitive skin sculpting, the LYMA Laser is able to redefine facial contours without any thermal damage or invasion. A clinic-grade, 500 milliwatt, coherent laser source able to penetrate all layers of the dermis to deliver the change to cellular alignment of the skin. It surpasses all other modalities by delivering intense, powerful energy to reinvigorate the energy nuclei of cells whilst remaining completely cold. Results show skin elasticity is notably improved and sculpted. Knife-free, needle-free dermal rejuvenation with solid scientific evidence to back it up is the future of aesthetics. … AND IN THE CLINIC The LYMA LIFT, is the world’s first facial designed by a plastic surgeon to achieve unprecedented lifting results, and it is already taking the industry by story with Ellie Goulding calling the treatment ‘epic’ and PR socialite and Kate Moss’ best friend, Fran Cutler saying it, ‘feels like i’ve had a face lift’.