The Menjangan is a cacophony of surprises and delights in equal measures. It really is, as described, a ‘hidden gem’ on the North West coast of the beautiful island of Bali. Please don’t let the fact that the journey from the airport in Denpasar is about three and a half hours long. Just drink in the real face of Bali, away from the normal tourist routes, and immerse yourself in enjoying the spectacular views, cultural identity and revel in a taste of ‘the real Bali.’ You will see many fascinating things and a way of life long lost in the main tourist areas of Kuta, Nusa Dua, Seminyak and Denpasar.
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The Amala has got to be one of Bali’s best kept secrets. This enchanting hideaway retreat offers supreme tranquility amidst its lush tropical gardens exquisitely adorned with decorative bamboo plants. The continual soft Balinese music and soothing running water echoing through the resort adds to the gentle ambience. At night the soft glow of strategically placed lighting, instantly transforms it into a romantic haven, absolutely perfect for honeymooners. The hotel does not cater for children under twelve years of age, so peace and quiet prevail at all times.
It is hard to imagine that the main street of Seminyak is only minutes away on foot. Here you can find a vast array of exclusive designer shops, local crafts, cafés and restaurants.
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They say that Bali is the ‘land of a thousand smiles’ – 999 of which we used up at the fantastically luxurious and exclusive The Balé, Nusa Dua. The only frown amongst all of these smiles of delight was when we reluctantly had to leave. It is difficult for us to accurately reflect the quality, tranquillity and serenity of this resort without descending into a whole myriad of superlatives. Perhaps it can best be described simply as ‘a total paradise on earth’. After 38 years of happy marriage my wife wanted us to get divorced and then remarried immediately so that we could spend a honeymoon at The Balé! As you lie in your personal infinity swimming pool in front of your own pavilion, shrouded in fragrant frangipani and dwarfed by giant flame trees, with soothing Balinese music echoing from your own high quality sound system, you cannot fail to be immersed in and inspired by one of the most beautiful and romantic retreats in the whole world.
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Nestled in the heart of West Sussex (and not a million miles from Gatwick Airport) you’ll discover this hidden treasure of a hotel. Comparable to the likes of Chewton Glenn and Penny Hill Park, Alexander House Hotel & Spa is beautiful both inside and out. It has a full spa facility, opulence comes to mind with unique lighting, hydrotherapy pool, steam and saunas and treatment rooms.
We recently reviewed Alexander House and feel privileged to have done so as it now scores up there with our top 5 reviews of all time (and we’ve done a few!). Our room was called Copper Beeches and was decorated with Autumnal colours in mind. A huge comfortable bed with the finest Egyptian cotton sheets, a flat screen TV, condiments, sofa, views of the outdoor Jacuzzi and a bottle of Champagne to top it all off. The design aspect is contemporary and has clearly been heavily invested in.
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The Cotswolds has a special place in my heart. To me it’s what England is all about, classic Georgian manners, picture postcard villages and more green countryside than you can shake a stick at, not to mention that it’s not to far from retail discount outlet Bicester Village… bliss!
We recently went to review The Inn at Fossebridge, situated at Fossebridge (between Cirencester and Northleach), which is a quaint country hotel with a fascinating 300 year history. Originally a coaching inn, the hotel was further added to in Georgian times, whilst retaining its original coaching inn features, which is now the main restaurant and bar.
The hotel offers affordable charm with an extremely relaxed atmosphere. It’s a little like stepping back in time (which is a good thing) to the days of Downton Abbey, a fascinating and very comfortable experience. Our room was called The Fossebridge and was a Deluxe 4 Poster King, En Suite Bathroom, Lake and Garden View, which was delightful.
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