According to legend, the monastery was founded in the eighth century by Padmasambhava, the “Second Buddha”, who flew to this site on the back of a tigress and meditated here for three years, three months, three weeks, three days and three hours.  

This hike was the culmination of our Bhutanese adventure, having landed at Paro Airport a week earlier, with our plane banking left and right between the surrounding 18,000-foot peaks of Mount Jumolhari. Our pilot is one of only 24 in the world trained to land here.

_{Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten | Photography bay Marcus Westberg}

We have come to explore the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan, nestled between China and India, with a population of only 750,000 living in the valleys of a country that is 99 per cent mountainous. Buddhism, the official state religion, permeates every aspect of the Bhutanese lifestyle, culture and even attire, with men wearing the traditional Bhutanese gho and women wearing the kira.

Bhutan has undergone a remarkable transformation over the last 15 years, evolving from an absolute to a democratic monarchy, with the government monitoring the country’s prosperity through its “Gross National Happiness” index. The so-called GNH tracks the population’s mental well-being, education, cultural diversity, community spirit, sustainability and living standards. 

_{Tiger’s Nest Monastery | Photography bay Marcus Westberg}

On our one-hour drive from the airport to the capital, Thimphu, our guide explains the reason for the mandatory accompaniment of all international tourists. It’s to ensure reverence for Bhutanese religious sites, to show respect for national traditions and to protect the environment.

We check in at Pemako Thimphu, a striking hotel enveloped by the vista of the surrounding mountains. Its exterior features a traditional Bhutanese façade with whitewashed walls, intricate wooden cornices and lotus-shaped window frames. The resident Buddhist monk blesses us with a welcoming ceremony, tying a red thread around our wrists, symbolising good luck and prosperity, which we proudly wear for the duration of our trip.

_{Punakha Dzong | Photography bay Marcus Westberg}

We are perfectly located to explore this quaint city and viewing its distinctive architecture, with each building adorned with ornate colourful designs and religious symbols. We later discover that the Bhutanese style of architecture extends to all the country’s monuments, dzongs, temples and monasteries.

Thimphu is the place to purchase textiles and handicrafts, to indulge in Bhutanese cuisine and to mingle with the locals. We admire the theatrical moves of the white gloved traffic policeman in an impeccable uniform, standing in his signal box directing traffic at the city’s only roundabout. Intriguingly, there are no traffic lights anywhere in Bhutan.

_{Pemako Thimphu Lobby and Restaurant}

A two-hour drive eastward across never-ending undulating valleys and verdant mountain peaks takes us to Punakha, the ancient capital city. We are staying at Como Uma Punakha, where our balcony overlooks the breadth of the riverine Punakha Valley. In the morning, we follow a trail to hike up to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a modern monastery built in 2004 to ward off evil spirits and bring peace and harmony to all living things. Afterwards, we take a river raft to Punakha Dzong, a fortress monastery and one of Bhutan’s most revered sites.

After our descent from Tiger’s Nest near Paro, we head to our hotel, Amankora Paro, and its sultry Aman spa with its specially blended Aman amenities. We luxuriate in a traditional steamy hot stone bath, infused with rosemary, to ease our weary muscles. This pristine lodge, with its minimal aesthetic and incomparable service, offers unrestricted mealtimes serving Michelin-star worthy dishes, a help-yourself bar, daily cultural activities and a same-day laundry service.

We came to explore what makes this tiny Kingdom of Bhutan the happiest place on earth. We depart feeling privileged to have experienced the uniqueness of Bhutan’s traditional lifestyle and the sense the excitement for the King of Bhutan’s plan for the economic development of Gelephu in the more accessible south of the country, which will enable many more tourists to experience this happy Himalayan Kingdom in the near future.

by Amanda Bernstein

_{COMO Uma Punakha: Valley room stays start from $695 per night, inclusive of tax and service charge. COMO offers end to end services including visa applications, guides and activities.} 

_{Pemako Thimphu: stays start from $1,020 during high season (March-May/September- November). Rates include accommodation on a B&B basis and use of hotel amenities.}

_{Stays at Amankora start from $1,900 per night, based on double occupancy, excluding taxes and fees, all meals at Amankora Dining Room, picnics en route to other Amankora lodges, in-house beverages.}

_{For more information on visiting Bhutan, see bhutan.travel}

The post Glass visits the happy Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Upon entering the gates of this grandiose former Cape Edwardian-style residence, it feels like we have entered into someone’s private home – it seems inappropriate to refer to this property as a hotel. The sheer scale of art on display is overwhelming, resembling a gallery rather than an extravagant hideaway.

Many original architectural features have been retained throughout, which allude to its historic ambience. Before we even check in, we’re greeted by the charming manager, Karien Bendle, and her front-of-house team as if we are old friends.

_{Garden and pool}

The Ellerman art collection highlights the South African spirit, with priceless works by native legends such as Gregorie Boonzaairer, Maggie Laubser and Irma Stern lining every inch of the wooden-clad walls, while sculptures in various shapes and sizes are perched precariously on mantles and corner shelves.

There’s a separate, professionally-curated contemporary art gallery, with more than 1,000 pieces, which is renowned as the finest collection of African art on the continent. It is a privilege to experience this collection either on a guided tour or individually with an iPad. Art aficionados will have to stay at Ellerman to view this world class collection as the property is not open to the public. 

_{View From Felix Studio}

Ellerman House has a brag-worthy store of more than 9,500 South African wines. These comprise emerging and established labels from the Western Cape wine region, famous for its 350-year-old winemaking heritage.

Wine storage is enhanced with specially curated wine racks with a glass installation in the shape of a giant corkscrew taking centre stage within the wine gallery. This space is also home to an interactive, multi-media wine library and brandy-tasting lounge.

_{Bar Rock}

Our exceptionally spacious suite is stocked with a complimentary mini-bar and a selection of delicious locally produced snacks (topped up daily). French doors lead out to an expansive ocean-facing terrace with panoramic coastal views across the numerous Atlantic bays of Cape Town, with Robben Island in the distance. It’s like a double-page spread from a glossy coffee table book. We leave our terrace door open at night, falling asleep to the calming sound of the waves breaking on the shore below. 

Ellerman House presides over the one and a half acres of manicured grounds, and its sizeable swimming pool is flanked by green and white stripy sun loungers – the perfect secluded spot to soak up the balmy sunshine after a day exploring the buzzing beach-fronted city.  

_{Bottom pool terrace}

Service is discreet and you’re guaranteed to feel like this is your home-away-from-home, whether you’re staying in one of the 13 bedrooms in the main house or in one of two private villa residences, each with a private entrance. We love the quirky “naughty corner” walk-in pantry besides the kitchen, which is open 24 hours for luscious sweet and savoury treats, including jars stuffed with copious amounts of famed South African confectionary.

But the best treat is in the evenings heading to Bar Rock, with its famed South African craft gin trolley, to watch the sun set slowly over the tip of southern Africa. 

by Amanda Bernstein

_{Ellerman House – 13 Rooms & 2 Luxury Villas. Rates range from $850 – $12,800  per night.} 

_{For reservations email info@ellerman.co.za ellerman.co.za/}

_{+27 21 430 3200 | 180 Bantry Bay, Cape Town, South Africa}

The post Glass uncovers Ellerman House – an extravagant bolthole in Cape Town first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

In our fast-paced world where stress levels can soar very quickly, the value of quality sleep cannot be overstated. At the heart of Chenot’s Sleep Cycles module lies a profound understanding of sleep as a cornerstone of both physical and mental well-being that can be achieved with the balancing of our circadian rhythm. 

_{Chenot Palace Weggis exterior at dusk}

As I step onto my balcony and into the cool Swiss morning air, I take in the breathtaking vista that surrounds me. The tranquil turquoise waters of Lake Lucerne is framed by a row of palm trees, set against a backdrop of the freshly snow-capped Mount Rigi peaks. It’s a scene that epitomises the natural beauty of Switzerland. 

I’m staying in one of the luxuriously appointed Sleep Suites which has been engineered to optimise sleep quality, with both the room temperature and the soundproofing calibrated. The king-sized bed is dressed in stark-white nanobionic linens, containing minerals activated by body heat that emit infra-red rays.

The bedside audio system is programmed with a selection of acoustic sensory experiences tailored to facilitate sleep. I review the sound menu and select the immersive ambiance of a tropical rainforest, which transports me to a world of serenity within minutes of my head touching my pre-chosen pillow. 

_{Room with a view at Chenot Palace Weggis} 

A pivotal element of the Recover & Energise programme are daily neuro-acoustic deep relaxation sessions held in a silent and darkened room. Headphones deliver specific neurochemical and auditory signals to the brain, which induce a state of calmness facilitating a deep slumber. This is followed by 30 minutes of photo-biomodulation treatment that bathes me in a therapeutic infrared light, engineered to promote cellular metabolism and reduce inflammation. There’s a comforting warmth that envelopes my entire body and immediately elevates my mood. 

At the core of each of Chenot’s holistic programmes is a sophisticated bio-energetic screening process supported by a medical assessment (including body composition), conducted by world-renowned specialist doctors using high-tech medical equipment. It provides invaluable insights into the functioning of my vital organs and my overall body wellness, which delivers a personalised roadmap for the development of my health. 

_{Pool at Chenot Palace Weggis. Photography credit Fabrice Fouillet}

My daily Chenot schedule includes indulging in a steamy hydrotherapy bath to dilate the veins and to eliminate toxins, a mud wrap to create a sweat followed by a hydro-jet shower to cleanse the skin and raise blood pressure followed by a heavenly energetic lymphatic drainage full-body massage. I note that as the week progresses, my body feels energised, better than it has felt in a long time, and I feel rejuvenated as never before.

_{Whole Body Photobiomodulation}

Each meal at Chenot is served by an immaculately attired team in the elegant dining room, where delicious, colourful and artistically presented low-calorie plant-based cuisine. Our daily regime, accompanied by copious amounts of water and herbal infusions, triggers a process called autophagy, whereby the body initiates a self-cleaning process to recycle and to discard damaged cells.

Thankfully, Chenot’s super talented Italian Executive Chef Ettore Moliteo has published a stunning cookery book, which will enable me to follow his recipes once I return home. 

The programme menu at Chenot is not merely about temporary fixes or superficial treatments. It is a meticulously crafted journey towards holistic well-being, blending scientific precision in order to restore the energetic balance of the body. For those seeking to optimise their health and wellness, Chenot represents the ultimate experience. And for some, a better night’s sleep.

by Amanda Bernstein

_{Recover and Energise programme £5,700.} 

_{Sleep Cycles add £1,600. Rooms from £350 a night. chenotpalace.com}

The post Glass enjoys blissful slumber at Chenot Palace Weggis, Switzerland first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

The island’s capital, located in the northwest, is Palermo, a spicy fusion of African and Arabic cultures offering a destination rich in history and cultural treasures, including the Palermo Cathedral and the Massimo Theatre, as featured in the film The Godfather. With its impressive gastronomic delights, world-class wines and year-round sun-drenched landscape, the island ensures an indulgent holiday.

_{Villa Igiea}

One of the smartest addresses in the city is Villa Igiea, an historical Art Nouveau palazzo and once the summer home to Sicily’s influential Florio family. After a two-year restoration overseen by Olga Polizzi, sister of Sir Rocco Forte, who collaborated with architects Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen, an uber-luxurious urban retreat has been created. 

The entrance is awash with cosy armchairs and colourful floral installations, with a winding marble staircase leading down and out onto the grounds. Perched above the port with panoramic vistas across the Bay of Palermo, we look out over the clutch of mega yachts that are moored in the harbour, while lounging by the swimming pool surrounded by the immaculately manicured tiered gardens.  

_{Igiea Terrazza Bar}

Our bright suite is reminiscent of a private apartment, blending historic features with contemporary comforts, and our hi-tech, spacious living area is adorned with local objects d’art and book-lined shelves. Picture windows open out to dazzling views over the lush gardens and across the turquoise Mediterranean.

The separate bedroom with a zillion-count linen thread ensures a blissful slumber, and the Carrera marble bathroom is complete with Sicilian floor tiles and shelves lined with plenty of fragrant Irene Forte skincare amenities. 

_{Suite at Villa Igiea with Sea View}

The outside terrace of the Florio Restaurant serves an unrivaled Sicilian breakfast buffet, while at night the garden’s soft lighting and enchanting live music transform it into a fine dining haven, with a sumptuous menu designed by chef Fulvio Pierangelini, featuring fresh fish, hearty pasta, Sicilian arancini and many ingredients harvested from the gardens of the Rocco Forte resorts. 

After absorbing the vibrancy of Palermo, we’re whizzed off in a Maserati Ghibli on a 90-minute scenic drive heading south towards the serenity of Rocco Forte’s Verdura Resort. With 203 sea-facing rustic-toned rooms and suites set within 230 hectares of grounds, it boasts 2km of private golden coastline encompassing a water sports centre and two spectacular, world-class 18-hole championship golf courses that meander from the foothills of the surrounding mountains down towards the sea.

Not forgetting to mention probably the largest two-tiered swimming pool we have ever seen (all 60m of it), tennis courts, a fitness centre and a stand-alone spa with four outdoor thalassotherapy pools heated at varying temperatures that look out onto the grounds. For families, there’s a kids and a teens club.

_{Verdura Resort Infinity Pool}

Verdura Resort takes pride in its diverse selection of restaurants. Before dinner, we head up to the Granita Bar to witness the famed Sicilian sunset over the sea, which creates an enviable Instagram moment.

We dine at Amare, the romantic beach-fronted seafood eatery, with its selection of freshly caught fish, perfectly cooked to order. We book the more casual Liola Restaurant for our second night, which offers cliff-top views over the Mediterranean. This Sicilian trattoria-style pizzeria menu includes Sicilian caponata and large plates of hearty homemade pastas.

_{Rocco Forte Private Villa}

Last year, the resort built 20 self-contained spacious villas, perched high with views overlooking the sea and offering total privacy. Each villa has been styled to resemble a rugged, double-storied Sicilian farmhouse and offers immaculately appointed interiors with contemporary furnishings in rich, earthy colour-tones, and specced with every mod-con imaginable.

All comprise a range of luxury amenities, including their own indoor and outdoor dining spaces, a fully equipped kitchen, heated swimming pool and electric bikes to navigate the resort’s grounds – that’s if guests can tear themselves away and head down to the resort to experience all this resplendent retreat has to offer. 

by Amanda Bernstein

_{Villa Igiea offers Suites starting from €1400 per night on a B&B basis. roccofortehotels.com/villa-igiea} 

_{Verdura Resort offers rooms starting from €528 per night in a Deluxe Room on B&B basis. For additional information, please visit roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/verdura-resort}  

The post Glass gets a taste of Sicilian decadence with Rocco Forte first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

A stay at the Lakes by Yoo guarantees a family-oriented home-away-from-home holiday experience (including dogs) with access to a range of services. 

_{Sailing on the Lake}

Our three-bedroom apartment (accommodating up to six) is set around Marley Lake, offering flexible accommodation for families. It consists of two double bedrooms and a twin room with two single beds that can be joined to create a super-king. Sliding floor-to-ceiling doors open out onto an expansive terrace, which is built over the lake, with access to the water to moor a kayak or canoe. 

The terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy a morning coffee watching the swans floating by, before heading off on a leisurely stroll to collect the complimentary home-produced honey and organic eggs from the onsite beehive and aviary.

_{The Lakes Bar & Kitchen}

The buzzy onsite restaurant, the Lakes Bar and Kitchen, is housed in a tent-like structure which blends naturally into its surroundings. This all day dining restaurant is open to homeowners, holidaymakers and local residents, offering all-day dining, including a hearty selection of breakfast options and an extensive choice of vegetarian and vegan plates.

_{Interior kitchen at The Lakes by Yoo}

The estate is also home to a purpose-built spa with upscale leisure facilities. The 17m heated indoor swimming pool takes centre stage, with a jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and well equipped gym. There are also a host of cosy treatment rooms accompanied by menus featuring products by Wildsmith and Dr Barbara Sturm. 

_{Swimming pool at The Lakes by Yoo}

With a wide range of activities from nature walks and fishing to wild-swimming and zip-wiring, The Lakes by Yoo is the ideal countryside destination to fully recharge and totally unwind – even for one night.

by Amanda Bernstein

_{Prices start from £995 per night visit thelakesbyyoo.com}

The post Glass spends a weekend by the water’s edge at The Lakes By Yoo first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Upon boarding Seabourn Encore, the luxurious ambience of the polished mahogany, ornate crystal chandeliers and dazzling art instillations is more reminiscent of an oligarch’s megayacht than a cruise ship. 

_{Aerial view}

We head to our Veranda Suite. It’s surprisingly spacious with aqua-toned furnishings, walk-in closet and a dove-grey marble bathroom that wouldn’t look out of place in any five-star hotel, with its stand-alone shower, separate bathtub and shelves filled with lashings of Molton Brown amenities.

In our cosy lounge-area, a bottle of chilled champagne, accompanied by a tray of snacks, is displayed on our coffee table, and a fully stocked fridge brims with all our alcoholic favourites. Double doors lead out to our private balcony, the perfect romantic spot to view the sun dipping into the horizon each evening.

The swiftly-run 24-hour room service is available at any hour, so we can call for a midnight snack or even request a three-course lunch or dinner from the in-room menu and our suite will be transformed in minutes, complete with a full-on candles and white-table-cloth affair.

_Atrium

We meet up with the Austrian hotel director onboard, Peppi Josef, who explains that the Seabourn Cruise Line, with its fleet of seven ships, prides itself on offering a unique range of itineraries for every destination it sails into around the globe. Holidays at sea offer superb value for the most discerning traveller, with an all-inclusive package that encompasses luxury accommodation, and alcoholic beverages that include a selection of fine wine.

What’s not to like about waking up each morning in a different destination, especially if you only need to unpack your suitcases just once? With the Seabourn team taking care of all our immigration paperwork at each port, there’s no waiting around when disembarking each day, allowing us more time to explore the shore.  

It’s mid-October and the weather has been picture-perfect every day, allowing us to take a morning swim in the heated pool before departing on our daily land excursion. We return later to the comfort of our ship, spending a bit of quiet time relaxing in the sunshine. We can be social if we choose or select a tranquil space, or even cabana, to be as private as we wish. 

_{Penthouse Spa Suite}

Throughout our 7-day voyage, we manage to work our way through the ship’s numerous gourmet restaurants. Occasionally, we order room service for breakfast on our balcony, but usually we head up to the al fresco buffet and à la carte breakfast at the Colonnade. It’s the perfect spot for the grand views of the morning sail-ins to each destination, including sunsplashed vistas of Grecian white-washed buildings and intense blue-domed churches blending into the rugged verdant hillsides. 

At night-time, the Colonnade becomes an atmospheric dining space, with its Mediterranean menu and a choice of indoor or outdoor seating. The main dining room is the more formal option, serving generous portions of classic choices, focusing on regional cuisines.

For specialist dining, the sushi restaurant with its Japanese chef contributes to its authentic atmosphere. And for dining under the stars, the breezy Patio Grill with its pool-side setting offers an extensive casual menu. 

_{Pool deck}

Most fellow travellers appear to be repeat passengers, turning the ship into a home away from home, while the crew we chat with during our voyage seem to have remained loyal to Seabourn for many years. Couples, families and plenty of solo passengers just become part of the family.

This warm atmosphere permeates through our entire voyage and, with 420 crew members on board looking after a maximum of 600 guests, we’re made to feel like celebrities from the moment we embark to the moment we depart. 

For discovering hidden treasures of the world on one seamless luxurious vacation, a voyage on a Seabourn cruise is a gem of an experience that awaits even the most seasoned traveller. 

by Amanda Bernstein

_{Seabourn’s 7-Day Aegean Gems & Eastern Mediterranean onboard Seabourn Encore is a roundtrip from Piraeus (Athens), Greece that departs on 22nd September and arrives on 29th September 2024, priced from £3,099 per person sharing a Veranda Suite. Includes accommodation and all meals and drinks (except premium wine and spirits) and gratuities. Optional shore excursions and spa treatments will be charged as booked.} 

_{For reservations or more information on other destinations, please contact Seabourn on 0344 338 8615 or visit seabourn.com}

The post Glass explores the Aegean onboard the Seabourn Encore first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

While sipping my welcome glass of champagne, I can’t help but notice the designer-clad clientele wondering through the lobby. This hotel oozes refinement and is steeped in history since its inception in 1865, welcoming illustrious guests of the past, including Winston Churchill, Oscar Wilde, David Bowie and Princess Diana to name a few.

This property, with its 159 guest rooms and suites, is positioned in the most central location in the capital’s Regent Street, adjacent to the restaurants in Soho, the art galleries in Mayfair, and the buzz of Theatreland. It is the perfect destination from which to explore all that London has to offer from early in the morning until late at night.

The gilded swoon-worthy regal central staircase entices its visitors to dispense with the lift. Each of the guest rooms are furnished with neat, contemporary and minimalistic furnishings in tranquil colour schemes, complimented by Carrara-enrobed grey marble bathrooms with rainfall showers, stone sunken bathtubs, and his & hers sink units.

The bright hues of the plentiful Etro amenities add a pop of colour, which when opened, infuse a satisfying fragrance to our room. Our grand junior suite’s floor-to-ceiling triple-glazed windows, dressed with automatic curtains, provides an exciting view towards Piccadilly Circus – such a treat when waking in the morning to soak up the silent view before the daily commuters and effervescent tourists arrive.

The Set Collection’s three founding member hotels, Hotel Café Royal in London, Lutetia in Paris, and Conservatorium in Amsterdam, have joined forces with Therabody, the innovative leader in wellness technology products, which originally established the hand-held massage device, Theragun.

Their current range of products includes devices designed to treat a range of physical ailments for the relief of stress and tension, and to enhance recovery after physical exercise or training. The Therabody treatment menu is available in the dedicated Therabody Suites in each of these hotels or alternatively, massages and facials can be carried out in the comfort of guest suites, offering a private and bespoke experience.

I head down to the Akasha spa and swim in the 60-foot heated indoor pool before my facial. The sound of therapeutic acoustics seduces me into a relaxed state in the Therabody Suite, where Sascha, my skilled therapist, explains how the TheraFace device will aid my treatment.

As I lay on the heated bed, I succumb to her expert manual facial massage using U Beauty creams and serums whereby she then enlists the help of the Theraface device that omits satisfying microcurrents to tighten my skin. I eventually depart an hour later not only feeling refreshed, but literally glowing which, together with a stay here, genuinely makes my day.

by Amanda Bernstein

_{Hotel Café Royal, 68 Regent Street, London W1B 4DY}

_{+44 207 406 3333 enquires@hotelcaferoyal.com}

The post The Set Collection launches collaboration with wellness technology company Therabody first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Bringing the vibrant spirit of Miami Beach to Bournemouth, this swanky hotel leads onto the iconic zig-zag path that meanders down one of Britain’s biggest beaches, offering an unparalleled seaside experience.

Bournemouth has long been celebrated for its picturesque beachscapes, charming ambiance, and its buzzy cultural scene, including the world-famous Russell-Cotes art gallery and museum.

_{Interior of NICI}

_{Interior of NICI}

Guests are dazzled by an atmosphere of indulgence upon stepping into the NICI. This hotel boasts 88 rooms, each designed to exude style and comfort, with textured fabrics featuring designs of palms in shades of foliage, and the spacious marble bathrooms are lined with Malin + Goetz amenities.

Many rooms offer a sea vista, while the dog-friendly garden suites make the perfect summer sanctuary, complete with a private hot tub, loungers and room- service-ready table and chairs.

The recently installed 30-meter heated pool is flanked by neatly lined up squishy loungers with stripy upholstered headrests, evoking a sense of timeless glamour within the manicured grounds.

_{Outside pool at the NICI}

_{Dog friendly}

For those seeking respite from the sunshine, the NICI boasts extensive indoor facilities. The luxurious spa has eight treatment rooms, where guests can embark on a journey of rejuvenation and relaxation, after which they can swim in the 18-meter steamy indoor pool.

For families there’s an impressive fully equipped kids’ playroom, while fitness fans can enjoy the state-of-the-art gym. The hotel even caters for film-buffs with a cinema room offering freshly popped complimentary popcorn.

_{Spa at the NICI}

_{Spa at the NICI}

The NICI’s culinary offering is helmed by Dominic South (formerly of London’s Langham and Corinthia hotels). The Boujee Bar and South Beach Restaurant are set against the backdrop of the gardens with lashings of light streaming in. It is set up for any-time-of-day dining (great for small children), offering a broad wholesome menu.

The best spot at the NICI for a drink is on the spacious terrace, which has become a magnet for the dolled-up locals, especially in the evenings.

_{Exterior of the NICI}

This summer, the eagerly anticipated restaurant Old Harry’s Rocks will make its debut in the grounds of the hotel overlooking the sea. The indoor and al-fresco poolside space will have a laid-back vibe, while the menu will feature sushi and sharing plates. It is poised to become the quintessential hotspot for summer nights by the Bournemouth seaside. Book your table now and you won’t be disappointed.

By Amanda Bernstein

_{THE NICI, W Hill Road, Bournemouth BH2 5EJ
Rates from £175 per room per night
All overnight guests enjoy access to the full facilities – including the luxury spa and 30m heated outdoor pool}

The post The NICI puts the wow in Bournemouth first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Positioned at the end of the illustrious Avenue Montaigne, it’s in good company, rubbing shoulders with the famous French designer boutiques, including Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Dior. 

_{Deluxe-Suite view from Plaza Athenee}

Red awnings and thousands of geraniums adorn the balconies from the black wrought-ironed, flower-boxed façade of the hotel. On entering the orb-shaped lobby, I’m wowed by immaculate floral installations that spring out from the imposing marble columns, mimicked by an intricately designed red-toned rug that brings instant warmth to this dazzling entrance.

After checking in, I pass by the wall of fame depicting some of the global icons that have stayed here through the years, and walk through La Galerie, the perfect spot to people-watch from morning until night. It’s worth keeping your eyes peeled as this space is filled with the most stylish crowd (especially during Paris Fashion Week).

Try and spot the famous faces if you dare to look closely – although they are usually hiding behind sunglasses or beneath oversized hats.

_{Cour-Jardin at Plaza Athenee}

My extravagant suite on the third floor continues the glamorous theme, decorated in tones of beige with gold highlights. Sumptuous furnishings include a squishy sofa, plush carpeting and the most heavenly bed imaginable.

The white marble bathroom has a sunken bath, a mirrored mosaic wall, a vanity unit with a double sink, separate shower room and plenty of Guerlain amenities. 

_{Haute Couture Eiffel Suite Living}

Since 2021, chef Jean Imbert has overseen the gastronomic offerings, including the Michelin-starred glitzy restaurant, Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée.

I choose the more casual dining option and experience immaculate service during my à la carte breakfast and dinner, ensconced within the foliage and red awnings of La Cour Jardin courtyard; a continuous reminder that I am staying in one of the most glamorous spots in the entire city.

by Amanda Bernstein

_{Rates start from €890 low season, €1,180 high season.} 

_{The hotel forms part of Dorchester Collection, an exclusive portfolio of nine luxury hotels around the world.} 

_{To book a room, booking.com.}

_{Address: Plaza Athénée: 25 avenue Montaigne, 75008 Paris +33 (0)1 53 67 66 65}

The post Glass encounters a riot of red at the Plaza Athénée Hotel, Paris first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Warm weather and calm seas may not accompany us every day, but what this voyage lacks in climate it makes up with some of the most staggering scenery imaginable – from moss-covered volcanic undulated landscapes to craggy shorelines and quaint villages, not to mention those azure skies and sapphire seas.

With a maximum of just 312 like-minded inquisitive, well-travelled guests and more than 200 staff onboard, we envisage this to be a trip of a lifetime.

_{Star Legend}

We experience first-hand that a cruising experience is not just about getting from one location to another – it’s also about the voyage. There’s a swimming pool and hot tub to enjoy on deck and the Yacht Club to play cards in, socialise and read, while indulging in the all-day offering of hot drinks, sandwiches and snacks.

Before our al fresco breakfast each morning, we commence the day either in the gym or at a yoga class in the pilates studio. 

_{Pool deck}

Windstar has a fleet of six ships, three all-suite motor yachts and three classic sailing ships. Each vessel features a watersports platform that guests can enjoy during warm-water sailings, comprising paddle boards, kayaks and a floating island.

We utilise the open bridge policy while at sea to visit Captain Simon and Jack, the Second Officer, who shows us around the bridge and shares an insight into life at sea. The fact that Windstar is a privately owned company is reflected in the dedicated service we experience from every member of staff on board.

The Windstar team greet everyone personally and they quickly establish guests’ every little preference, like the extra hot coffee with oatmilk waiting for me every breakfast. 

Candles Restaurant onboard Windstar

The vast majoiry of the knowledge-thirsty passengers are return guests of Windstar. Our spacious cabin has a queen-size bed with Egyptian-cotton monogrammed linen, a cosy lounge area and a marble bathroom fitted with a large power shower and L’Occitane amenities.

The cabin’s Juliet balcony is our vantage point for early morning arrivals into port and our evening sunset sailings.

_{Yacht Club}

Windstar design creative itineraries with the educated, adventure-seeking traveller in mind.  Immersive shore experiences are led by local experts, including a retired history teacher and former scientist.

There’s a choice of multiple tours for each destination that we pre-select prior to departure, ranging from energetic scenic hikes and historic explorations to visits to local villages and culinary experiences. On-board lectures provide an opportunity to delve into the politics and history of each destination, which enriches our experience on every island visited. 

Windstar is the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving America’s diverse culinary heritage. The unrivalled cuisine is helmed by Joseph Kalynuik, who we meet during a cookery demonstration on our first morning.

Our favourite dining choice is the elegant Cuadro 44, which highlights hearty Spanish dishes inspired by 10-time Michelin-starred Anthony Sasso and his travels across the Iberian peninsula.  I trust he was transported by Windstar.

by Amanda Bernstein

_{Windstar Cruises offers a number of Iceland itineraries in 2024 with prices starting from £2,675 per person for a seven-night cruise round trip from Reykjavik. Price includes all meals including speciality restaurants and port taxes.}

_{Call Windstar Cruises on 0808 178 2233 or visit Windstar Cruises}

The post Glass is swept away by Windstar Legend Cruise first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Drum-roll for this smart and recyclable glass bottle filled with a sweet floral-scented and nourishing vegan oil which is instantly absorbed without clogging the pores or leaving an oily residue.

_{The Geranium Rose Body Oil}

Powered by the wonderful Professor Bader’s miraculous TFC8® technology which creates the optimal environment for cellular renewal, this gratifying oil protects the skin while supporting its renewal process.

To apply, quite simply pat on and massage into clean and dry skin. Skin looks polished and radiant and is given an instantaneous glow. From top to toe.

by Amanda Bernstein

_{Priced at £85 and available from www.augustinusbader.com}

The post Augustinus Bader launches The Geranium Rose Body Oil first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{Lagoon Suite}

It’s raining and as I pull up in my hire car the entire landscape appears otherworldly with its undulating lava fields covered in vibrant green moss. I’m welcomed into the tranquility of the lobby and led upstairs to soak up the scene from the open-air roof top which overlooks the thermal waters below.

A fire pit surrounded by cozy seating makes this the perfect spot to enjoy the majestic Northern Lights between the optimal viewing months of September to April. 

_Lobby

My Moss Junior Suite is furnished in earthy tones through the use of varying natural textures, from wood and stone to wool and cotton. Aside from floor-to-ceiling windows, there is a heavy door that opens out onto a balcony with views of the volcanic landscape and serene waters.

I am even able to marvel at this vista before darkness falls from my window side stand-alone bath, which is accompanied by a shelf filled with generous-sized bottles of Blue Lagoon amenities. 

I ease myself into the relaxing groove of spa life here by appearing in fluffy white slippers and bathrobe over my swimsuit in preparation for my treatment. I slip downstairs to sit beside a funnel-shaped fire in the lobby lounge where I indulge in a champagne-fuelled afternoon tea while gazing out of the window that frames one of the azure steamy geothermal water pools. 

_Spa

The Retreat Spa is a subterranean sanctuary, carved into the volcanic earth with plenty of cocooning nooks for relaxation. There are also three dimly-lit cavernous interconnected chambers, home to The Retreat’s three-part skin-enhancing ritual based on the trinity of natural wonders featuring minerals found in the waters for guests to utilise throughout their stay.

_Lagoon

Heading outside, I meet up with my therapist for an indulgent 45-minute Float Therapy session, a recently launched treatment held in a secluded and private inlet within the Lagoon. This treatment targets bone structure and joints to relieve spinal tension, and as my body is manipulated through gentle movements, I gently doze in and out of a meditative state.

The hypnotic interplay of weightlessness and light massage leaves me with a feeling of relaxed euphoria as if my mind has been rebooted and my body has been rejuvenated. 

_Lounge

Two dining options here include Lava Restaurant, built into a staggering lava cliff, with views over the Blue Lagoon. This lively destination offers a varied menu featuring traditional Icelandic dishes, including plenty of meat and fish, with each dish focusing on the best and seasonal local ingredients.

Moss Restaurant is an extravagant, recently awarded Michelin-starred fine dining experience, which showcases Iceland’s vast diversity with a deep respect for when and where ingredients are most desirable.

Each plate is presented as a dramatic masterpiece, displayed on chinaware specially created in Belgium for one of the most celebrated chefs in Iceland, Raymond Blanc protégé Agnar (Aggi) Sverrison, who helms the theatrical kitchen with standout service. 

_{Wine Cellar}

After dinner, I’m encouraged to take a peek into the wine cave, where the sommelier leads wine-tasting experiences. Taking the elevator a few floors down, I’m led into a spacious volcanic grotto, where the staggering, once-molten walls are now filled with wines from across the world.

Although this experience is temporarily closed due to the recent volcanic eruptions, (as of March 2024), a thrilling highlight of any trip to Iceland is an ATV experience with 4x4adventuresiceland.is to traverse Iceland’s rugged terrain and otherworldly vistas.

Led by an expert and experienced guide, my adrenaline-pumping morning ensures another unforgettable memory as we cut through historic lava fields, cross icy- glacial rivers and ride up mountains and down along the salty-coastline heading to the black sandy beach of Sealbay. Breathtaking!

by Amanda Bernstein

_{The Retreat at Blue Lagoon rates start from £1,294 per night for a Moss Junior Suite (min. 2 night stay) on a BnB basis, between the dates of 1 October – 21 December 2023. To book, please visit Blue Lagoon}

_{Icelandair: Return economy fares from London Heathrow to Keflavik with Icelandair start from £175pp}

ATV experience with www.4x4adventuresiceland.is

The post Glass relaxes in geothermal baths at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon in Iceland first appeared on The Glass Magazine.