_{Haldu Tola}

Nestled away in lush jungle flora, Haldu Tola is the only one of its kind to be located in Pench Tiger Reserve. Named after the long-standing Haldu tree, Haldu Tola boasts four bedrooms, a dining room, a living room, a lounge, and a heated pool. Carved by local artisans from the Gond tribal community, the solar-powered villa intertwines vibrant cultural elements with elegant furnishings and details.

_{Haldu Tola}

Additionally, guests can spend some free time hitting the well-equipped gym or enjoying in-villa yoga sessions and art workshops. However, the ultimate villa addition is Haldu Tola’s customised Africa-style safari jeep. For those hoping to learn more about the surrounding wildlife, an in-villa naturalist will accompany guests on excursions and provide thorough insights into the abundant landscape.

Alongside safari experiences, Pench Tiger Reserve has recently been recognised as Asia’s eighth and newest dark sky place – meaning it’s an ideal location for stargazing and astronomy workshops.

_{Haldu Tola}

Available to rent fully serviced, the villa comes with its own senior camp manager, housekeeping and chef. Tapping into traditional Indian culinary traditions, the catering team utilises locally sourced ingredients – including fruits and vegetables grown in the villa’s vegetable garden – to provide the freshest breakfasts, lunches and dinners.

by Sophie Richardson

_{Experience Haldu Tola with Explorations Company from £19,500 based on a five-night stay for 5-8 guests. For more information, please visit www.explorationscompany.com.}

The post Explorations Company welcomes Haldu Tola to its sparkling portfolio first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Two years ago, Villa d’Este remained open for Christmas and New Year for the first time. Due to its remarkable success, the hotel will continue to welcome guests over the 2024 holiday season.

^{Villa d’Este}

In celebration of this event, Villa d’Este has curated a special festive menu of experiences to usher in the jolly tidings. To start, the innovative French skincare brand Biologique Recherche Beauty Maison will host a winter pop-up. Villa Malakoff will transform into a magical lakeside spa sanctuary, offering an exclusive 90-minute signature facial treatment—the Soin Magistral—until January 6th, 2025.

_{Villa d’Este Spa}

Meanwhile, the hotel’s resident club and bar will transform into an elegant jazz Club in partnership with Milan’s iconic Blue Note jazz club. Every Friday night from now until December 27th, guests can soak up the bar’s speakeasy atmosphere while enjoying new curated cocktails such as the Jazz Club—a mezcal-based beverage with smoky notes—and the Note Dolci—a refreshing gin drink featuring amaretti and dessert wine.

On a similar note, two glass houses have been commissioned to extend the hotel’s Lake Terrace so guests can enjoy magnificent views of Lake Como while remaining cosy indoors from November onwards.

The first—located outside Bar Canova—will offer aperitifs and cocktails alongside an all-day dining menu, caviar selection, and live music. The second glass house—connected to Sala Colonne—will be the ultimate location for a glamorous afternoon tea. For further sweetness, the decadent halls of Sala Colonne will convert into an artisanal haute patisserie, chocolatier, and sweet shop.

_{Villa d’Este Dining}

For those looking for a delightful gastronomic experience, the hotel will host two immersive beverage-orientated dinners throughout December. On the 4^th of December, guests can enjoy an evening with Oliver Krug, representing his prestigious Krug label. Then, on the 18^th of December, the dinners will conclude with a meal centred around the iconic Domaine de Romanée-Conti.

And the culinary delights don’t stop there. The hotel has crafted a Christmas Eve Dinner menu and a Christmas Day lunch offering. In a celebration of Italian culinary traditions and local specialities, the two menus intertwine holiday traditions with contemporary flair.

Finally, on the 31^st of December, guests can welcome the New Year during Villa d’Este’s New Year’s Eve Gala – complete with a grand firework display over the lake – or with the hotel’s New Year’s Day Brunch, which promises to be a wonderful way to usher in the New Year.

by Sophie Richardson

_{From €1,300 (approx. £1,117) for a Double Classic Room per night, including buffet breakfast. For more information or to book, please visit here.}

The post Villa d’Este transforms into a Winter Wonderland for the 2024 festive season first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Enter Frog by Adam Handling – a Michelin-starred restaurant located just a stone’s throw away from Covent Garden’s countless theatres and markets.

Having started at Gleneagles as the first-ever apprentice chef, Handling went on to become Fairmont’s youngest Head Chef. Following on from his energetic start in the culinary world, the Scottish chef has won many accolades including Restaurateur of the Year in the British 2020 GQ Food and Drink Awards, BBC TV’s 2023 Great British Menu ‘Champion of Champions’, and was the youngest person to be one of the Caterer’s ’30 under 30 to watch’ in the 2013 Acorn Awards.

_{Lobster wagyu}

With such impressive achievements, it is no surprise that Handling has garnered a notable following of 122K on Instagram. Offering glimpses into behind-the-scenes action and further information on his gastronomic chefs-d’œuvre, Handling continues to entice and enthral his online audience with contemporary British food.

But what makes Frog so special? Stepping into Frog by Adam Handling is a little bit like entering a different universe. The bustling atmosphere of Covent Garden diminishes, leaving guests in a cocoon of sophistication where plush furnishings meet brilliant floral arrangements accompanied by a soundtrack of gentle ambient music.

The restaurant is small yet undeniably intimate. We counted twenty-five diners during our visit – a number that elevated the exclusive feeling of a dining experience at Frog by Adam Handling. As one enters the restaurant, the front-of-house team immediately cater to one’s every need, offering warm flannels to banish any wintery chill and a glass of wine for extra comfort.

After settling in and soaking up our surroundings, our waiter Harry presented us with a series of welcoming snacks – wagyu bone broth, a cod belly and tigers milk ensemble, old Winchester cheese and onion skin bites, apple and duck sausage with fermented brown sauce, chicken liver pâté, and finally an elevated roast chicken sandwich.

Alongside each dish’s intricate plating, Handling has crafted a menu with a strong narrative. For example, the roast chicken sandwich is inspired by the chef’s sister – Marthe. The story goes that Adam Handling’s sister would only want roast chicken every Sunday lunch, but it was never an issue as any leftovers were enjoyed by the family the following day.

Frog by Adam Handling’s roast chicken sandwich pays homage to this tradition, with a ceramic chicken bowl arriving at the table, unveiling the tasty treat with a gust of smoke.

_{Roast Chicken Sandwich}

The tasting menu continues with an opening course of crab with herb stalks and radish – a refreshing, floral starter, followed by a caviar course. Diners are presented with two N25 German caviar options – modern or heritage caviar. The modern choice adopts a warm, buttery taste, whereas the heritage caviar taps into traditional salty notes.

As each dish arrived at our table, our expert sommelier, Nadia, would guide us with suitable wine pairings. From fruity, full-bodied red wines to floral, zesty whites, the wine pairings complimented each course with ease.

Having enjoyed a wagyu bone broth at the start of the meal, wagyu made a reappearance with a Lobster wagyu offering – a hearty follow-up to the caviar course. In a display of versatility and playfulness, the menu also featured an inverted version of this dish, Wagyu lobster – a wagyu beef tart adorned with lobster and fragrant black truffle.

As dishes continued to emerge from the kitchen, including cod with green chilli and pickled grapes, duck with ketchup and purée, and a palette cleanser of parsley ice cream with hibiscus syrup and rapeseed oil, I realised that having a light lunch earlier in the day was an unexpected blessing. With generous portions and rich flavours, the tasting menu isn’t for the faint-hearted.

Finally, our visit to Frog by Adam Handling ended with a caramelised apple, woodruff, and custard dessert, which was a sweet, light denouement to the evening.

_{Caramelised Apple, Woodruff, and Custard Dessert}

Whereas many Michelin-starred restaurants can feel intimidating, Frog by Adam Handling is different. By harnessing the power of British cuisine and centring one’s dining experience around family tradition and heritage, the restaurant exudes warmth and familiarity – sentiments that are certainly needed and welcomed during these colder months.

By Sophie Richardson

_{The tasting menu at Frog by Adam Handling costs £195 per person, with drinks pairings available for an additional cost. For more information or to book, please visit here. 34-35 Southampton St, London WC2E 7HG}

The post Glass explores Frog by Adam Handling’s new seasonal menu first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{One Aldwych}

Now, One Aldwych has just announced that it has become B Corp certified, making it the first and only five-star hotel in London to achieve this recognition. A B Corp certification ensures that a company meets high standards of environmental performance, accountability, and public transparency.

By prioritising care and sustainability, One Aldwych’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact is undeniable. To start, the hotel ensures that, where possible, local suppliers and producers work with the company to provide amenities such as bathroom products, hand-woven blankets, and chocolates.

_{One Aldwych}

Similarly, One Aldwych aims to reduce its energy usage by 5% through more responsible use of gas, water and electricity. The hotel also utilises careful metrics to determine energy usage and food wastage, further underlining its dedication to sustainable practices.

Finally, the hotel continues to support charity organisations such as Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity and The Connection at St. Martin’s.

_{One Aldwych}

Speaking on the B Corp recognition, Managing Director Janine Marshall said: “Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do and has been for over 20 years. Responsibility has to be taken all the way down the ecosystem, from day-to-day operations to the materials and amenities provided. We speak to our guests, our designers and suppliers to assess what’s important for them – and to them. From locally sourced goods to low-impact lighting, water and electricity, to upcycling materials and composting waste, sustainability is our promise – it’s in our DNA, everyone in the hotel is involved and committed.”

by Sophie Richardson

_{For further information on One Aldwych and its B Corp status, please visit www.onealdwych.com/bcorp and for further information on B Corp, please visit www.bcorporation.uk.}

The post One Aldwych becomes London’s first five-star hotel to gain B Corp certification first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Diorshow 5 Couleurs palette

£60 – Buy here

Dior has ushered in the colder months with warmth and glamour with its Diorshow 5 Couleurs eye palette in 643 Golden Masquerade. The new limited-edition shade features a scintillating golden centre, glittery soft pinks and a matte burgundy.

Diorshow Stylo

£26 – Buy here

For additional depth, the Diorshow Stylo in shade 656 Pearly Ruby is the ideal eyeliner for this look. With an ultra-precise retractable tip, the stylo effortlessly glides across the skin to leave behind a buildable layer of the most decadent burgundy tint.

Rouge Dior

£39 – Buy here

Similarly, for the lips, the Rouge Dior in shade 386 Bouquet subtly echoes the hues of the Diorshow 5 Couleurs eye palette, adding a poignant pop of colour to the autumnal look. Alternatively, the shade 720 provides a matte finish, which offers long-lasting wear and moisture.

Rouge Dior Contour

£26 – Buy here

Further definition can also be added with the Rouge Dior Contour shade 229 Rose Spice lip liner. Swipe on this creamy shade to enhance the look with plump, soft lips.

Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil

£33 – Buy here

For those who prefer a glossy lip, the widely popular Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil in the shade 006 Berry is an excellent choice. Once used as a top-coat on Rouge Dior 720 and Rouge Dior Contour 229, the lip glow oil protects the lips and adds a magnifying mirror-shine effect – without the sticky texture.

Rosy Glow

£35 – Buy here

To add colour to the cheeks, the Dior Rosy Glow blush in the shade Berry adds a subtle radiance to any seasonal look. This blush expertly works with one’s skin pH to transform it into a custom colour upon application, ensuring seamless wear for all complexions.

Rouge Blush Colour & Glow

£48 – Buy here

Finally, the Rouge Blush Colour & Glow duo palette in Wildior highlights and tones the skin thanks to its soft, powdery texture. This duo is certain to add undeniable structure to one’s look with buildable intensity and shine.

by Sophie Richardson

_{For more information and to buy, please visit here.}

The post Dior Beauty celebrates Autumn with a burgundy beauty look first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

And now, to further embellish its sparkling portfolio of experiences, Belmond has just announced the launch of the UK’s first luxury sleeper train – The Britannic Explorer.

_{Interior of the Britannic Explorer}

Making its debut in July 2025, the Britannic Explorer will depart from London, offering three-night journeys with a choice between three routes. The first choice will take guests on a spectacular venture into the Cornish countryside, the second will explore the Lake District, and the third will voyage into Wales.

Throughout the day, optional off-train guided excursions will be available for those wanting to learn more about each location. Meanwhile, during the evening, passengers can relax over a drink at the train’s bar.

_{Interior of the Britannic Explorer}

_{Interior of the Britannic Explorer}

With interiors designed by London-based studio Albion Nord and fine dining experiences crafted by eight Michelin-starred Chef Simon Rogan, passengers aboard the Britannic Explorer are certainly in for a glamorous escape.

Intertwining traditional British charm with heritage motifs and minutiae, guests can enjoy bespoke afternoon tea, lunch, and dinner menus whilst admiring the train’s vibrant décor.

by Sophie Richardson

_{The Britannic Explorer features 18 cabins – three Grand Suites and 15 Suites. Luxury accommodation aboard the Britannic Explorer starts from £11,000 based on a double cabin to include a 3-night itinerary, excursions, meals, wine, and alcoholic beverages on board. For more information or to book, please visit here.}

The post Belmond unveils the Britannic Explorer – the UK’s first luxury sleeper train first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

From nifty travel essentials to cosy, insulated outerwear, our guide features the best offerings for yourself and your loved ones.

Acqua di Parma – Caminetto Candle

£75 – Buy here

We know what you’re thinking – everyone gets candles at Christmas. But none of them are quite like this. Acqua di Parma‘s seasonal exclusive Caminetto candle evokes the warm flames of an open fire on a cosy winter night with its distinct incense and amber notes.

Temple of Incense – Ultimate Christmas Gift Set

£65 – Buy here

Continuing in the same vein, Temple of Incense’s ultimate Christmas gift set features three seasonally scented incense – Festive Kiss, Vanilla Woods, and Three Kings. Arriving with a Seven Chakra wide wooden incense holder and Rajnigandha Attar, a sweet, floral fragrance, the gift set is a wonderful olfactory offering.

Assouline – Mandarin Oriental Book

£150 – Buy here

If amongst your nearest and dearest you have some avid readers, you can’t go wrong with a coffee table book. Exploring the Mandarin hotel in Hong Kong and the Oriental hotel in Bangkok, the book explores the hotels’ rich history and legacy. Written by Fionnuala McHugh and imbued with more than 200 illustrations, this book is the ultimate gift for any globetrotters.

Wildsmith Skin – English Ceramic Hand Wash

£85 – Buy here

For those with an appreciation of the finest skin and body care, why not select an exquisite gift by Wildsmith Skin? Featuring clinically proven, science-based botanic ingredients, each product in the extensive range will not only transform skin health but will also elevate the bathroom.

Briggs & Riley – Sympatico Essential Carry-On Expandable Spinner

£569 – Buy here

Does your loved one love to travel in style? Sleek and sophisticated, the Briggs & Riley Sympatico Essential Carry-On Expandable Spinner fits seamlessly into overhead luggage bins. It also allows its user to pack 25% more thanks to CX compression-expansion technology. Available in black, navy, and olive, this suitcase is certain to be an excellent travel companion.

KEF – Mu7 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones

£349 – Buy here

Ideal for those on the go, these headphones utilise Smart Active Noise Cancellation technology to ensure uninterrupted immersion. Crafted by Ross Lovegrove, the headphones arrive in Silver Grey or Charcoal Grey and feature a capacitive touchpad for easy wear and navigation.

Kathmandu – Epiq SE Jacket

£255 – Buy here

Intertwining sustainability with style, Kathmandu’s Epiq SE Jacket is a special edition of the brand’s heritage puffer jacket. Made from end-of-life car tyres and featuring a 600-fill power duck down, the jacket provides the same high-performance warmth as its original counterpart.

Lalique – Plumes Vase

£1230 – Buy here

This festive season, Lalique’s beautiful creations take on an otherworldly allure with its Astralescence collection. Contrasting surfaces and textures meet surrealist forms in an exciting marriage of style and elegance. A standout from the collection is the Plumes Vase – a clear crystal decorative piece inspired by the softness of a bird’s plumage.

La Bonne Brosse – Constellation Collection

£168 – Buy here

Luscious locks are just a moment away with La Bonne Brosse’s limited edition Constellation brush. Arriving with unique crystal-embedded handles, the 12 brushes have been carefully adorned with the celestial shapes of each zodiac. Taking one’s hair to heavenly new heights is a walk in the park with this cosmic collection.

Wedgwood – Festive tableware collection

POA – Buy here

For those who love to decorate in style, Wedgwood offers a Festive tableware collection. Designed in England and crafted from Wedgwood’s signature fine bone china, the pieces are adorned with a festive design of an outer beaded border inspired by the classic Tonquin pattern, while the chevron accent adds a modern touch to round out the look.

Supporting this impressive tableware collection is Wedgwood’s annual snow globe and cherub ornaments, including the Festive Salt and Pepper, all expertly handcrafted in Barlaston, England and expertly picked for the festive season.

Drybar – The Half Shot Round Blow-dryer Brush

£125 – Buy here

Looking for an alternative to a Dyson airwrap? Drybar’s The Half Shot Round Blow-Dryer Brush is a magnificent choice. This brush delivers salon-standard blowouts at the press of a button. Fitted with a 3.8 cm round barrel for extra precision, the Half Shot Round Blow-Dryer Brush adds volume and bounce to any style.

Augustinus Bader – The Supreme Collection 2024 with TFC8®

£1355 – Buy here

Finally, this skincare collection from Augustinus Bader encompasses the best of what the brand has to offer. Featuring 10 of Augustinus Bader’s most lauded products, The Supreme Collection harnesses the power of TFC8® technology to target any problem areas and leave you with the most radiant, glowing complexion.

by Sophie Richardson

The post Glass Luxury Christmas Gift Guide 2024 first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Glass has curated the ultimate gift guide for the foodie in your life. From high-end cooking appliances to the most exquisite dining experiences, this guide features the most sought-after gifts from leading brands, ensuring food lovers of all ages will rejoice this festive season.

Frog by Adam Handling – Festive Tasting menu

_{The Frog festive tasting menu is £195pp, with optional supplements and wine pairings. To book, visit here.}

To start, what better way to treat a loved one than with a gastronomic outing? Adam Handling’s Michelin-starred restaurant Frog, in the heart of Covent Garden, is celebrating the holidays with a festive tasting menu. Cloaked in mystery and glamour, the menu’s offerings are concealed until guests arrive, making it the most thrilling seasonal surprise.

PoB Hotels – Experience Gift Vouchers

_{The experience gift vouchers start from £75. For more information or to purchase a gift voucher, please visit here.}

Arriving just in time for the gifting season, PoB Hotels has launched a collection of experience gift voucher offerings, including Seasoned to Perfection, Pampers Paradise, and Time for Tea. For an unforgettable dining experience, the Seasoned to Perfection voucher can be used at any of the collection’s hotels for a unique lunch or dinner. Meanwhile, Time for Tea can be used to redeem a unique afternoon tea adventure.

Silent Pool Gin – Rose Expression

_{£45 for a 70cl bottle – Buy here}

For the mixologist in your life, the Silent Pool Gin Rose Expression is an excellent gift option for those ushering in the holidays with a celebratory toast. The complex notes of vetiver, cardamom, and rose make this an ideal base for classic cocktails like Negronis and G&Ts.  

Papa Salt – Coastal Gin

_{£42.50 – Buy here}

Developed in the award-winning Lord Byron Distillery in Byron Bay, Australia, this gin transports its enjoyers across the globe with its zesty, nutty flavour profile. Capturing the relaxed atmosphere of laid-back beach days, this gin is an elixir of tranquillity.

Furthermore, this gin is produced in a zero-waste facility powered by renewable energy, making it a superb sustainable addition to any holiday season.

Origin City – Butchery Masterclass

_{£199 per person – Buy here}

Led by Executive Chef Graham Chatham, who has 35 years of culinary experience and leads the kitchen in Farringdon’s Origin City, and the in-house butcher Lee South, bring a unique masterclass to the table by teaching guests how to prepare and cook some of the best cuts.

Finished with their very own apron, boning knife and a selection of joints to take home to finesse their new skills with, this is the perfect gift for your carnivore friend or family member.

Vapoura Rum – Chapter One

_{£45 – Buy here}

Marrying heritage with modernity, Vapoura is the first rum to be fully crafted on English soil. Chapter One is Vapoura’s initial iteration, balancing botanicals with warm spices. To be enjoyed neat or in a cocktail, this rum undergoes a special fermentation process to refine its deep flavour spectrum.

Caol Ila – 12 Year Old Whiskey

_{£55 – Buy here}

Alternatively, Caol Ila’s 12 Year Old Whiskey taps into a deeper, more smoky flavour profile. Frequently praised for its luscious, long finish, this Whiskey will banish any winter blues.

The Dorchester Collection – Festive Deluxe Hamper

_{£500 – Buy here}

And the festive delicacies don’t stop there. The Dorchester Collection has recently unveiled its 2024 Christmas hampers, and they’re simply exquisite. In particular, the festive deluxe hamper delivers a delicious assortment of sweet and savoury delights.

Highlights include the rosemary & sea salt shortbread biscuits, chocolate pralines, and The Dorchester’s iconic Christmas pudding.

Microplane – Black Sheep Large Shaver

_{£49.95 – Buy here}

There’s no better time of year to showcase one’s culinary skills than during the festive season. For the Masterchef in your circle, Microplane’s Black Sheep Large Shaver produces wafer-thin shavings of hard cheese, chocolate, coconut, or whatever else one may need.

Graef – MYtiny Compact Slicer

_{£275 – Buy here}

This compact, foldable slicer is ideal for the smaller kitchen. With sustainability proving to be an ever-important issue, the slicer enables its users to purchase food in a more economical, less processed, and less packaged way. Featuring a 170mm serrated blade, this sleek kitchen appliance is a great all-rounder.

Veuve Clicquot – La Grande Dame rosé gift box by Paola Paronetto | 75cl

_{£225 – Buy from here and here}

Paying tribute to the pioneering spirit of Madame Clicquot, the ‘Grande Dame’ of Champagne, the Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame rosé gift box is a perfect option for rosé lovers. The release of this new vintage rosé in collaboration with Italian artist Paola Paronetto celebrates a passion for colour and the peak of elegance and delicacy – quintessential to welcome in the festive season in style.

Kuvings – Auto 10 Hands Free Juicer

_{£599 – Buy here}

With clean eating on the rise, reaching one’s five-a-day has never been easier – especially with this hands-free juicer. The Auto 10 Hands Free Juicer automatically chops and feeds ingredients, requiring no manual prep or intervention. Built with temperature-resistant, non-toxic materials, this juicer delivers perfect portions of vitamins and minerals without any extra chemicals.

Mikolasch Vodka

_{£24.50 – Buy here}

Newly launched Mikolasch Vodka just landed on British soil in time for the festive season. The single-farm Ukrainian vodka made from corn and pure well water promises quality in every sip, and its silky-smoothness and soft white pepper finish makes it ideal for sipping neat or perfect for those who are looking to level up their Martini or Cosmo.

Double Dutch – Pomegranate & Basil Mixer

_{£17 for a case of 8 – Buy here}

Considered one of the best non-alcoholic mixers for the festive season, the brand was founded by Raissa and Joyce de Haas 10 years ago off the back of their infamous house parties. The range consists of twelve refreshing sodas and tonics which can be mixed with any spirit or enjoyed on their own.

Vitamix – A3500

_{£749 – Buy here}

Innovative and timeless, this brilliant blender comes with five settings for smoothies, hot soups, dips & spreads, frozen desserts, and self-cleaning. It’s also designed with a programmable timer, ensuring that one’s custom recipes are not over- or under-processed. With built-in wireless connectivity and a touchscreen interface, this blender automatically stops once processing is complete.

Kylie Minogue Wines – 0% Alcohol Sparkling Rosé

_{£7 – Buy here}

Not just a chart topper, Kylie Minogue’s 0% Sparling Rosé is the UK’s leading brand for non-alcoholic alternatives with its refreshing and finely balanced taste with notes of fresh strawberries and a complex, dry finish. 

KitchenAid – KF8 Fully-Automatic Espresso Machine

_{£1,899 – Buy here}

Finally, coffee connoisseurs will delight upon discovering KitchenAid’s new Espresso Collection. This fully automatic espresso machine can create up to 40+ coffee options at the touch of a button. Featuring a plant-based milk mode, a 5” colour touch screen, and a removable bean hopper, this machine is certain to brighten anyone’s day.

by Sophie Richardson

The post Glass Luxury Culinary and Dining Christmas Gift Guide 2024 first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Marking the start of a new chapter, Adrià and Chef Giancarlo Perbellini have joined forces to harness the unique flavours in Atavi’s Smoked and Sourdough pasta profiles. However, it is not the first time that the two legendary chefs have worked together.

_{Adrià and Chef Giancarlo Perbellini}

“Atavi has already built a strong relationship with Perbellini and the Pasta Evangelists team, as there’s an Atavi Tagliatelle dish on the Harrods menu, so Giancarlo and I wanted to build on this for the new Vortici launch and create two new innovative and delicious dishes,” explains Adrià.

The first of the two dishes will exhibit Atavi’s Vortici sourdough pasta. The new shape is intertwined with garlic butter, lemon, anchovies, chicken emulsion, chive oil, and a zesty sauce.

Meanwhile, the second combines the Smoked Vortici pasta with a cacio-pepe and diavola sauce – a best-seller at Harrods.

Speaking on the collaboration, Perbellini said: “At Casa Perbellini and with Pasta Evangelists, we have always embraced innovation while staying true to our culinary roots. Collaborating with Adrià and Atavi allows us to push the boundaries of creativity and craft new, exquisite dishes that reflect the shared passion we have for exceptional Italian cuisine. With the Vortici launch, we are excited to present two dishes that harmoniously blend tradition and modernity.”

by Sophie Richardson

_{The limited-edition menu will be available at the Pasta Evangelists Restaurant in Harrods from Monday 11^th November. To book, please visit here.}

The post Chefs Albert Adrià and Giancarlo Perbellini launch a new Atavi menu in Harrods first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

I’ve arrived at Anantara Qasr Al Sarab – a desert resort nestled away in the Arabian Peninsula. Boasting 140 rooms, 14 suites, and 53 pool villas, the hotel is a luxurious destination for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.

_{Anantara Qasr Al Sarab}

As I make my way to the hotel lobby, the staff eagerly offer me a fresh juice drink to revitalise the senses after a two-hour drive from Zayed International Airport. The hotel’s castle-like exterior echoes its opulent decor. From lanterns lining every pathway to the decorative rugs adorning the floors, Qasr Al Sarab carefully intertwines Arabian design with contemporary style.

After check-in, I’m promptly whisked away via golf buggy to my accommodation for the next two nights – one of the hotel’s pool villas. Offering complete privacy and peace, the villa overlooks a sweeping vista of impressive dunes and features its own private plunge pool and sundeck, outdoor shower, and relaxing lounge area.

_{Anantara Qasr Al Sarab}

A dip in the pool is a must for combatting the desert heat. Fortunately, the hotel has a variety to choose from. For those wanting to enjoy a calming swim, the adults-only infinity pool is ideal. Meanwhile, the oasis-style family-friendly pool lies at the centre of the resort, surrounded by palms and buzzing with life.

Running adjacent to the family-friendly swimming pool is Naseem – the hotel’s pool bar. It’s easy to build up an appetite after frolicking in the water, and Naseem’s selection of culinary delights is difficult to resist. Sharing plates, frozen slushies, fresh fruit cocktails, and sweet treats are all on the menu. However, if more lunch options are needed, Qasr Al Sarab’s Ghadeer is an excellent choice.

_{Anantara Qasr Al Sarab}

_{Anantara Qasr Al Sarab}

Located just next to Naseem, Ghadeer is one of the hotel’s sparkling dining venues. Specialising in globally inspired signature dishes, Ghadeer’s menu standouts include the seafood cioppino, Levantine mezze platter, and the Devil chocolate cake.

_{Anantara Qasr Al Sarab}

Similarly, the hotel’s spa is a 5-minute walk – or two-minute buggy drive – away. To uncover the healing powers of the desert, I indulge in a 60-minute Desert Fusion Massage and feel all my tension and stress melt away.

The spa is certainly one of the resort’s biggest attractions. Guests can choose from a plethora of massages, body treatments, sound bath meditations, facials, and more while visiting the wellness hotspot. Facilities include two heated jacuzzis, two steam rooms, an ice room, a sauna, and five gorgeous treatment rooms.

_{Anantara Qasr Al Sarab}

As I leave the spa with a glass of ginger and star anise juice in one hand and a home-grown date from Qasr Al Sarab’s Ezba in the other, I’m feeling physically and mentally energised.

The Ezba is similar to a farm however, traditionally, it is much more rooted in Emirati tradition. With an Emirati eye, an Ezba is a place where plants and animals are nurtured, and the next generation is taught how to look after the land.

Chene, my guide for the day, invites me on a tour of the Ezba, showcasing the hotel’s various greenhouses and pastures. As one of the hotel’s sustainability initiatives, the Ezba collects all the food waste from Qasr Al Sarab and converts it into compost for its plants.

From my visit to the Ezba, it’s evident that the hotel prioritises fresh, organic ingredients. Vibrant fruit and vegetables are grown in various allotments and are often gazed upon by the hotel’s greedy-eyed camels and gazelles.

The Ezba not only provides food for the hotel but also permits many unique leisure activities. Horse riding, falcon and saluki shows, night-time discovery walks, and camel trekking are available, thanks to the hotel being in the largest conservation area in the UAE.

_{Anantara Qasr Al Sarab}

For those wanting to make the most of their desert escape, there are additional activities at hand, such as stargazing, desert drives, archery, and tennis. It comes as no surprise that stargazing is a particularly popular activity. When one is in the middle of the desert, the non-existent light pollution allows crystal-clear cosmos visibility.

Guests can also marvel at the stars while enjoying a meal at Al Falaj. Specialising in Bedouin-style dining, the venue is a romantic, intimate space for an al fresco gastronomic adventure. Alternatively, the hotel’s rooftop steakhouse, Suhail, also offers expansive views of the desert skies.

_{Anantara Qasr Al Sarab}

As I drive away from the hotel feeling rejuvenated and light, the blanket of desert dunes slowly hides my view of Qasr Al Sarab, enveloping the resort in a mystical mirage of allure.

by Sophie Richardson

_{Rates at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara start from AED 995 (£208) in a Deluxe Balcony Room with breakfast. To book visit www.anantara.com/qasr-al-sarab-abu-dhabi}

The post Glass explores the desert dunes at Anantara Qasr Al Sarab first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Despite being thousands of miles away from its Grecian counterpart, Anantara Santorini vividly echoes the distinct architecture of the famed island. From the cyan blue sea to the pristine white walls – which I’m told require daily touch-ups – the hotel has been expertly designed to transport its guests across the globe.

_{Anantara Santorini}

Housing 22 sea-facing rooms and suites, the resort feels intimate and private. As I step onto my balcony to absorb some fresh sea air, the sandy beach in front of me is nearly empty. The only sounds I hear are the waves gently lapping against the shore, alongside the occasional passing seagull.

As an adults-only retreat, Anantara Santorini is a hotspot for couples and solo travellers seeking respite from the fast moving pace of the innovative capital. With complimentary activities on offer, such as sunrise yoga classes and movie nights in the hotel’s luxurious private cinema, the resort encourages deep relaxation and restoration.

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For the keen holiday-goers, the hotel offers further activity options such as snorkelling, perfume-making workshops, paddle-boarding, and kayaking. In particular, the perfume-making workshops are an excellent gateway to the world of Arabian olfactory goodness.

With much guidance and reassurance from the perfumers, I carefully pipette rich drops of oud, musk, bergamot, rose, vanilla, and patchouli essential oil into a delicate bottle, formulating my new signature scent.

I also head down to the beach to take part in a glass kayaking experience – one of the hotel’s more exciting activities. Led by recreation supervisor Mounir, I paddle across the serene sea, spotting turtles, stingrays, and angelfish along the way.

After soaking up the sun on my kayak, a trip to the hotel’s spa is much needed. The spa itself is yet another oasis of tranquillity. Embellished with lavish furnishings and luscious houseplants, the spa features two treatment rooms, a Moroccan hammam, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, and a cold plunge pool. Notable treatments include the Island Lava Shell massage, the Anantara Signature massage, revitalising facials, and Hungarian mud wraps.

Located a stone’s throw away from the spa is Oia Oasis, one of the hotel’s dining venues. Open daily for breakfast and lunch, the restaurant specialises in Arabic cuisine, which, to some, may feel slightly out of place due to the hotel’s Grecian décor, but worry not – the Anantara chefs work tirelessly to craft fusion dishes.

For lunch, Oia Oasis’s menu features more hearty alternatives. Batata harra, braised lamb shank ouzi and hot mezze platters appear alongside pistachio baklava and om ali.

Anantara Santorini’s second restaurant, Thalassa, is the must-visit dining location for Mediterranean cuisine. Tapping into flavours from Santorini, the Aegean Sea, and Southern Europe, Thalassa showcases grilled delicacies, fragrant appetisers, and fresh seafood.

However, the dining options don’t stop there. A private dining option – Designer Dining – is available for those wanting an even more exclusive experience. Perfect for couples, the Designer Dining experience is the ultimate romantic gesture. With the promise of being able to see the sun slowly set whilst enjoying a bespoke meal crafted by a personal chef, there is also a private butler will attend to your every need, ensuring the most harmonious fine dining adventure.

The staff at Anantara Santorini truly go above and beyond. Before even reaching the hotel, guests are invited to make contact with their private butler, ensuring that their arrival at the hotel is swift and easy. Then, upon arrival, the staff team warmly welcome visitors with a charming, catchy “Welcome to Anantara Santorini” song – one that is now perpetually looping in my mind.

So, how does it compare to the real Santorini? If you are looking to escape the crowds and indulge in a Mediterranean-inspired lifestyle, Anantara Santorini certainly delivers with the promise of less tourists and all-year round sun.

As I sit on my flight home with sand in my shoes, the smell of my handmade fragrance on my skin, and crumbs from my Santorini baklava on my lap, I realise a trip back may be needed.

by Sophie Richardson

_{Rates at Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat start from AED 2,020 (£424) in a Oia Sea View Room with breakfast. To book visit www.anantara.com/santorini-abu-dhabi}  

The post Anantara Santorini brings Grecian elegance to the Arabian Gulf first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Since opening in 2001, Fairmont St Andrews has garnered an impressive reputation for its sparkling resort & spa. The hotel boasts 520 acres of verdant green land, cliff-top views of the North Sea, and two world-class golf courses, allowing guests to absorb some of Scotland’s charming scenery.

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_{Lobby of the Fairmont St Andrews}

After reaching the hotel following my early morning Loganair flight, I was eager to explore its facilities – and have a quick coffee. Upon entering the lobby, the hotel’s interiors immediately reflect its stately allure. The bustling lobby area leads to the hotel’s spacious atrium, where timber floors meet plush carpets and a 60-metre lighting sculpture titled Zephyr by George Singer.

Despite the atrium’s scale, the space is warm and inviting, perhaps thanks to its various dining venues. At the bottom of the grand staircase lies the Squire Restaurant – aptly named after golfing legend Gene “The Squire” Sarazen – where a Scottish buffet breakfast is hosted every morning.

Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the room lies the Atrium Lounge – the Fairmont St Andrews must-visit afternoon tea space. Harnessing the power of local ingredients and fresh produce, the menu features traditional finger sandwiches, pork stuffing sausage rolls, pumpkin and ricotta puff pastries with spiced maple syrup, plain and fruit scones with homemade compote & clotted cream, and a variety of beautiful sweet treats.

_{Afternoon Tea at the Atrium Lounge}

^{St Andrews Bay Clubhouse & Grull}

Additionally, the hotel houses two further restaurants: the St Andrews Bay Clubhouse & Grill and La Cucina. The first concentrates on seafood produce, whereas La Cucina taps into traditional Italian gastronomic customs. 

However, if one wants to truly make the most of being by the Scottish seaside, Fairmont St Andrews has partnered with East Neuk Seaweed – a local business offering seaweed foraging experiences. Helmed by Jayson Byles, East Neuk Seaweed aims to educate and empower with wild cooking ecology.

During my stay, Byles took us down to Kingsbarns Beach to explore the different types of seaweed in the region. After snipping a fresh piece of seaweed off a rock, Byles exhibited his cooking skills with a kombu broth, smoked dulse muffins and a carrageen pudding. Packed full of umami and nutrients, the seaweed-infused cuisine showcased the beauty of Scotland’s organic produce.

And the seaweed explorations didn’t stop there. At the spa, I enjoyed the hotel’s signature Escape To The Hebrides treatment – a bespoke ritual created by ishga for Fairmont St Andrews. Ishga is an award-winning Hebridean organic skincare brand that utilises four different types of seaweed, tapping into the plant’s undeniable healing power.

At the spa, guests can also enjoy treatments from ESPA, a luxury holistic skincare brand.  A standout offering is the brand’s Strength and Resilience treatment, where careful reflexology techniques stimulate white blood cell production and strengthen one’s immune system  – a particularly appreciated benefit with the looming onslaught of the winter months.

_{Fairmont St Andrews Spa}

The hotel provides many other wellness experiences, including pilates and yoga classes in the spa’s studio, spin classes in the gym, or, for the braver guests, sunrise swims in the sea. Guided by experts from Wild Scottish Sauna, swimmers can enjoy a cold plunge in the North Sea before running to the safety of the nearby cosy sauna.

Despite taking only two hours by flight from London, Fairmont St Andrews allows you to appreciate the country’s astonishing nature offerings whilst still showcasing the brand’s leading position in luxury stays. And with the sea breeze providing an extra dose of vitality, one is certain to leave feeling refreshed, content and revitalised.

by Sophie Richardson

_{To book a stay or for more information, please visit here. Rooms start from £259 per night, including breakfast. Fairmont St Andrews is also offering a special price of its Manor Homes at £1000 per night until 15th December.}

_{East Neuk Seaweed workshops cost £60 per person, with children under 16 going free when accompanied by an adult. Wild Scottish Sauna offers Social Sauna Sessions at £16 per person for one hour, or a ninety-minute private group session costs £360.}

The post Fairmont St Andrews brings luxury to Scotland’s eastern coast first appeared on The Glass Magazine.