As most of you probably seen on Instagram, after months in the UK, I have finally made it to my beloved country – Italy, where I am planning to stay for a while. Last week I had a chance to stay in an absolutely beautiful place that I decided to blog about straight away. I felt like I just had to let you know about this magical site. I know traveling is not possible right now, but we can always keep dreaming and planning our future escapes, right? I hope this post will inspire your future trips!
LOCATION
Melrose Relais is located a few steps from the sea, in the splendid scene of Massa Lubrense. It’s surrounded by the typical olive trees of the Sorrento peninsula and the Mediterranean Scrub, and it’s placed only 300 meters away from the famous beach Marina di Puolo. The view from this property is absolutely stunning. It’s overseeing Mount Vesuvius on one side and Island of Capri on the other.
HOW TO GET THERE
The nearest airport is Naples International, 57 km from MelRose Relais. There are few ways to get there : either by Circumvesuviana train from Naples station, by Curreri bus or by car – From the A3 Napoli – Salerno highway.
The property also offers a paid airport shuttle service. You can read more here. We got there by car from Naples and the views on our way were incredible! The trip took us less than an hour.
ACCOMMODATION
Melrose Relais offers few different room types : Classic, Deluxe, Superior 2+2 – perfect for families ,and Junior Suite. All rooms are bright, modern with a little Mediterranean touch. I stayed at Junior Suite and it was a perfect choice for us as a couple as we had our own private terrace with the most magical views over Bay of Naples and island of Capri. We enjoyed them every morning while having breakfast. It was a perfect way to start our day. What a dream! I already miss it. I also absolutely loved the typical Sorrento majolica tiles everywhere on the terrace and also in the bathroom- so beautiful! Could I please move in?
DINING
Our day would start with breakfast on our private terrace. It was perfect! Then we were having lunch by the pool – super chilled but chic at the same time- they serve everything so beautifully and the food was absolutely delicious! As the owner said- everything from her grandma’s recipes.
At night we would dine at their beautiful restaurant under olive trees, facing the sea and the most incredible sunsets. It was such a magical and romantic experience. I absolutely loved the laterns, candles, and flowers everywhere. It was honestly so special. Not even mentioning how incredible the food was. I felt like the chef was reading my mind. What I won’t ever forget is the tuna tartare I had there – one of the most delicious ones I ever tried! I will surely go back to Melrose for dinner!
Recently Melrose opened the most gorgeous Bistrot – I absolutely loved the design, colors and decor. The Bistrot is available for both- hotel and non-hotel guests. I highly recommend booking it!
THINGS TO DO
There’s a lot to do around. You should definitely explore the beautiful Massa Lubrense and head to the magical Cala di Puolo Beach which is only 13 minutes walk. You should also explore Sorrento- I promise you’ll fall in love at first sight! My love started from the moment I ate this huge croissaint, haha!
Apart from that, Melrose offers tours by boat (both private or in group) to Capri, Positano, Li Galli, Baia di Jeranto, Amalfi. We took a Capri tour and I absolutely loved it. It was such a beautiful day on the sea, with the loveliest crew, great music, stunning views ,and even homemade limoncello! During the tour we also stopped at Capri for a few hours so we could hang around the island. Ah, no place like Capri! I have seen it so many times and I can’t get enough! Just look at it!
To sum up, I had the best stay at Melrose Relais and I can recommend this place with all my heart due to its stunning location and incredible family who put all their hearts to create this place and it’s magic.
They kindly offer 10% off your stay when using the code blondeflamingo10 when booking. The code also gives you free parking. I really hope you’ll book it and fall in love with this magical property and the most wonderful hospitality. You can book your stay here.
Last month I had a pleasure to visit Trentino for the second time. I couldn’t be happier to return to this region! Last year I published the article focusing on why you should visit this part of Italy. If you’ve missed it, you can read it here. This year, as I stayed there a bit longer ( 10 days) I had enough time to experience the best places to stay so I am finally able to also recommend you the most magical hotels that I am sure you’d absolutely love.
Chalet al Foss
Let’s start with my absolutely favourite chalet I’ve ever stayed and my personal highlight of the Trentino trip. Chalet al Foss is located just outside Vermiglio and 6 km from Passo del Tonale, in a peaceful and sunny area with the view over the mountains.
This boutique accommodation offers 44 rooms – different style at different price range but they all have one thing in common- the most magical view! When I say “magical” I seriously mean it! To me this view was a pure luxury. Apart from the most stunning views this hotel is famous from it’s incredible outdoor Alpin Spa. It also features an outdoor heated pool, a sauna with a view ( the most beautiful my eyes ever seen!) and hot tubes. What a pleasure after all day on the slopes! Oh talking about the slopes- there is a local free skibus service to the ski slopes of Passo del Tonale and not far from the cross-country ski tracks of Velon and Stavel. If you fancy driving there yourself, it takes about 20 minutes. I also need to mention the food in this hotel was absolutely delicious – both buffet and a la carte. This place is so incredibly romantic. It’s seriously a perfect getaway for couples. In the evenings the staff members light the candles around the pool and there is a beautiful fireplace too- a perfect spot for a glass of Lagrein red wine. Ahh, what’s more to add! You can book your stay here.
RifugioCapanna Presena
When I looked this place up before the actual trip I didn’t know what to expect. I have never stayed at the mountain hut before and also the idea of going there without all my luggage – we were going up there by gondola and we were told to only pack for one night in a backpack. What a challenge for the flamingo fashionista- believe me or not, but I have never ever travelled with the backpack. You may laugh as it was only for a night, haha but I am not going to lie it was challenging for me. But do you know what? It was EPIC. Rifugio Capanna Presenna is located 3000m above the ground, in the heart of Presena Glacier. This place honestly had some kind of energy I can’t explain. The views from there were insane! It was also extremely cold up there, but hey- it was all worth it! I have never watched sunset like that in my life! It was freezing but so magical and pink!
The hotel features 8 suites where you can soak up the splendour of the nature. The design is quite simple but very unique at the same time. Each room is beautifully decorated with stones and wood and can accommodate 2- 4 people. The group suite can accommodate up to 12 people. I personally stayed in the room for 4- 2 people slept downstairs and 2 upstairs. We were sharing the bathroom. Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, bar and a lounge during their stay The food was very tasty and their lounge is so cosy- a perfect spot for a Bombardino night with friends! You do remember what Bombardino is, right?
My favourite thing about this mountain hut (apart from the most incredible sunrise and sunset I have ever witnessed in the mountains) was their stunning SPA and Wellness centre. I absolutely loved their heated pool and the sauna both with the most panoramic view over glacier peaks. It was truly magical and I would say romantic. Perfect escape for either a couple, a family or a group of friends. You can see more and book your stay here.
While staying here we also attended a very fun Ice Music concert inside the igloo. So cool! Can you believe the instruments were made of ice too? To me it was a super fun experience. I loved the colorful light effects too! And yup, I was singing like crazy, haha! This event runs from January 4th to March 29th 2020, every Thursday and Saturday. PS. Wear the ski pants, hat and gloves!
Lefay Resort and SPA Dolomiti
Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti is set in the woods, overlooking the Dolomites in the ski area of Madonna di Campiglio ( 6 mins stroll from the ski slope) and is located in Pinzolo, the largest town in the Rendena valley. This hotel would be for those looking for a luxury and also wellness and SPA lovers. Lefay is also famous for it’s BIO architecture inspired by the nature.
Everything about this place was perfect from the moment I stepped in. The service was incredible! We didn’t stay here over the night ( I wish we did) but we were lucky to experience their famous and absolutely gorgeous SPA- one of the largest ones in the Alps.
Their wellness centre features 9 saunas, cold water bath, ice & tempered waterfall, sensory showers, fitness centre and stunning relaxation areas. There is also a huge heated outdoor pool with the magical view over the mountains. Wow!
This luxury accommodation offers 22 residences and 88 suites spacious and lightened by the big windows, with oak woods and natural fabrics to create a cosy atmosphere. Dining wise, there are two chic restaurants, and indoor and open-air bars. There are also two golf courses located just a few minutes from the Resort and those who are looking for adventures may choose among horse riding and mountain bike excursions. I highly recommend this hotel if you’re looking for a luxurious getaway or a SPA break. To me it would be a perfect place for a honeymoon too. You can read more and book your stay here.
Hotel EDEN Andalo
Eden Hotel is a family run place set amid the Brenta Dolomites. This relaxed mountainside resort has a great location – only 4-minute walk from the lifts at the Paganella ski resort. Depending on your needs and budget, there are different types of accommodations to choose from including: rooms, suites, and apartments.
My room was really quite small, modern and fresh but also very cosy. I really liked the view from my little balcony.
This family- run hotel would be a perfect hotel for families travelling with kids. There’s a Baby Club and Miniclub with afternoon and evening entertainment, where your kids are well looked after so you can enjoy the Eden Spa Wellness and Beauty Centre. I absolutely loved their relaxation area with Himalayan salt to regenerate after snowboarding for hours. PS. I obviously loved the egg chairs too! You know me already, haha!
Image source – booking.com
What’s really special about this property is the atmosphere. The staff really makes you feel like home. You can experience the real Italian hospitality and cuisine here. Oh these sweet Italian breakfasts and lots of carbs and wine every night! I miss it!
This property offers lots of greats packages full of fun activities – guided hiking tours, trekking, fat biking. You can check their packages out here.
I hope you will get to experience beautiful Trentino soon! I love this region so much and I hope to visit again next season!
Those of you who are with me since the very beginning already know about the special connection between me and Greece. After high school I won a casting, got a job in Kos Island and moved there on my own at the age of 19. Why Greece? Well, to be honest my love to Greece started to grow after reading the book “The Sisterhood of travelling pants“, haha, but the real love to Greece came after living on the island for few months surrounded by greek culture, their incredible hospitality, sun, food, wine and the warmest people I’ve met. It was life-changing. I felt like I seriously belong to this place and its lifestyle. It was the best job I could have as it gave me an opportunity to discover many beautiful and less known islands like Kalimnos, Pserimos, Plati and Nisyros. I was more and more in love with Greece and never wanted to leave. After moving to London (which was not easy considering the weather and completely different culture), I never stopped going back to Greece. Through all these years I have managed to go back to Kos to see old friends, visit Mykonos quite few times ( I love its bohemian feel), explore Santorini and Crete with my mum last year. This year, exactly one month ago I was kindly invited by Discover Greece to explore Corfu and lesser known island- Paxos. I couldn’t be happier and said yes right away!
I flew to Corfu from London Heathrow Airport with AEGEAN Airlines which is a Star Alliance member and winner of Europe’s Best Regional Airline, offering direct flights from 3 UK cities to 1 Greek destination and onwards to 31 domestic destinations. I personally had a layover in Athens where I’ve met the rest of the crew and we continued the journey to Corfu together. The views on the way were absolutely beautiful!
After we’ve landed we got picked up from the airport by a minivan from Travelco that escorted us to our hotel. The transfer was very comfortable- I fallen asleep right away, haha! If you’d like to book your transfers you can do it here.
During our trip we’ve stayed at Kontokali Bay Resort & Spa – a lovely 5 star hotel set on the Ionian Sea coast, surrounded by lush green gardens and sandy beaches. My favourite thing about this hotel was the most beautiful swimming pool looking gorgeous not only in the day light but also at night (so magical!) I also loved their delicious breakfasts. Imagine having a traditional greek breakfast with this view! Ah, I miss it!
Now let’s talk Corfu! I remember our guide’s introduction about Corfu and I recorded it very well- Corfu, the island of Spiros, music and olive trees. I would probably add – the island of delicious wine, incredible food and the most romantic sunsets and hiking trails. Also, the most green island I’ve ever visited – can you believe 70% are olive trees? Wow!
During this trip we got to experience many incredible things but I have decided to focus on my top 5 and I hope this little guide will make you want to book a trip to this magical island in the nearest future.
1.GO ON A JEEP SAFARI
One of my favourite experiences in Corfu was a jeep safari with Uncharted Escapes. You already know me and my travel style quite well- I love adventures, going off road and off the beaten path and love travelling in style- this tour had it all. We were picked up from our hotel by a very stylish car – loved the cream, leather seats. I “reserved” the front seat straight away to make sure I’ll witness the best views. And I did. Wow, it was incredible! Corfu is really the most green greek island I’ve ever been to. We drove through the most spectacular olive fields, hidden paths in the mountains and the most picturesque villages. We’ve also got to discover the Mount of Pantokratoras– the best panoramic view of Corfu. Believe me, my snaps don’t justify how incredible this tour was!
We finished off the jeep safari with visiting one of the oldest villages in Corfu called Perithia. Strolling around felt like a fairytale. I have probably never experienced such an authentic greek village before. We’ve were also lucky to dine at the most charming and authentic Tavern called Foros. It was only another reminder why I love Greece so much! Nothing beats greek hospitality, greek wine and food. Just look at these surrondings! You should totally visit this place when in Corfu! PS. Thank you, Vasilis for being the best guide (Hope you’ll get to read this!)
2. Visit a traditional Olive Oil Mill
So many trips to Greece and I never got to experience it! Luckily Discover Greece put it on our itinerary! We went on Olive Tour organised by the Dafnis Family, producers of The Governor Olive Oil. It was such an experience! We’ve learnt so much about the history, the production and the product itself. Their story was really moving! If you visit, you’ll see what I mean! I especially enjoyed the olive oil testing (did you know that you can add extra virgin olive oil to the greek yogurt and it tastes so good?) and learning about the health benefits of their olive oil. Here’s some snaps from the tour! I highly recommend it!
3. Get lost Corfu Old Town
As you already know I have visited quite a few greek islands but Corfu Old Town is nothing like what I have already seen before. It felt like walking through many centuries of history. Corfu’s Old Town was very vibrant and romantic to me -especially at night . I loved all the colours, mix of Venetian and Byzantine architecture and getting lost around old, cobblestoned, narrow alleys. I wish we had more time to explore as it was absolutely magical! Just look at these charming streets!
We’ve finished the tour with a stop at the best ice cream shop in Corfu Old Town- Papagiorgis. I highly recommend trying Kumquat – typical fruit from Corfu. It was so good! PS. Wish I could have it right now!
If you’d also like to experience a very authentic greek dining experience in the Old Town, I highly recommend Marina’s Tavern. It was personally my favourite dinner during the trip. I loved the food ( I had grilled octopus and it was so tasty!), the house wine and the vibe of the place. It felt like eating in a greek home. Take me back!
4. Visit to a winery
I bet you already know how much I love wine, so imagine how excited I was when I found out we’re going on a wine tour- yay! We have visited Theotoky Estate which was a love at first sight. The estate is located at Rosa Valley- one of the most ecological and peaceful spots in Corfu, covered in pine trees, olive groves and vineyards. We’ve finished off the lovely tour with a picnic, laughing, sipping their delicious Rose wine, during golden hour. I honestly felt like a movie set! I was the happiest!
Here with my partner in crime- Julia from Des Belles Choses. Thank you so much for sharing and snapping these moments with me!
5. Day cruise to Paxos
Let’s talk about my most favourite day during this incredible trip- visit to Paxos– the smallest of the Ionian islands in Greece and also the island I have heard absolutely nothing about, which made me even more excited. When we got there I couldn’t believe my eyes- the contrast between green trees and aqua blue waters was absolutely insane. It made us want to jump off the boat straight away! Just look at it!
What got my attention straight away were these beautiful, pastel-coloured houses contrasting with the deep blue Ionian Sea and the baby blue sky- what a dream! We only had a little time to explore but I promise- you’ll fall in love with this little island. There are also some breathtaking beaches around. The heart of the town is full of charming restaurants, cafes and tiny, colourful streets- I could be wandering around for hours! Here’s my happiest pink spot!
If you ever visit Paxos and you’re not sure where to eat please visit Thalassa restaurant. It was such a cosy place with the loveliest owner, the most delicious food (especially seafood!) and the most magical sea view. I also made a friend who turn out to be a great little helper as we ordered way too much food, haha!
After the lunch we’ve headed back to the boat. We were all happy tipsy after all the greek wine ( well, at least I was, haha). We had so much fun, dancing, singing, jumping off the boat, swimming in the crystal clear water and drinking more wine of course! We were also lucky to witness the most beautiful sunset. We made memories for life! These moments still keep flashing in my head. Does life get better than that?
Apart from the most dreamy sunset, we also danced under the moonlight. I will never ever forget it! I wish I could do it all again! After all day on the boat, we’ve arrived at the Marina of Old Fortress and headed straight for dinner to Corfu Sailing Club Restaurant. It was seriously the most perfect end to this magical day and also the most memorable trip! We’ve celebrated with more greek food, greek wine and the most idyllic view over the marina. This location was truly spectacular and incredibly romantic! I highly recommend it!
I hope my little guide and my huge photo gallery will encourage you to visit Corfu and Paxos in the nearest future. Thank you Discover Greece and all the partners for showing me around these beautiful islands. One thing I know for sure- I will be back one day!
Those of you who follow me on Instagram, know that last month visited one of my favourite destinations in the world – Maldives again. It was my third visit to this country as I absolutely love its vibe, people, culture and I love exploring the new islands. This year I have discovered the island which is completely different to the ones I have been to before- welcome to Kandima Maldives located on Dhaalu Atoll. To me, Kandima is more than just another resort island- it’s a lifestyle. It’s a huge (3.5 km long) and really chilled island with plenty of on-site activities to choose from. You definitely won’t be bored at Kandima! What’s more, it’s a perfect resort for everyone, whether you seek a romantic escape, a family holiday, a wellness and spa retreat, wedding destination, bachelorette, friends getaways or honeymooners.
HOW TO GET THERE
There are two options for you to reach Kandima from Male International Airport- either a domestic Air Transfer to a nearby airport and then a 20 min speed boat trip or a Sea Plane (more expensive option) transfer directly to Kandima. The views on the way are absolutely incredible!
Well, the moment you land is absolutely insane too. It’s my absolutely favourite thing about the Maldivies- oh, these endless blues….
ACCOMMODATION
Kandima caters for guests all ages on different budgets. It has a range of accommodation types options from affordable studios to luxury aqua villas. Personally I had a chance to stay at two completely different accommodation types. For the first two nights I have stayed at beautiful Sunset Beach Pool Jacuzzi Villa. I absolutely loved the modern, colourful decor, stylish pool and semi-outdoor bathroom with bathtub, rainfall shower and a day bed. Let’s talk about sunsets… one of the most incredible I have ever seen! And what’s better way to watch them than from a private pool with a little glass of wine in hand? Another thing I loved about staying at this villa is walking out barefoot straight after waking up and having the most beautiful white, sandy beach right in front of me. What a dream! Have a little peek! PS. You can also pre-order a floaty breakfast- I highly recommend it! What an experience!
After the most magical two nights at the beach villa I’ve moved to the Aqua Villa. Ah this must be my most favourite part when in Maldives! There’s no better experience than that in my opinion- a pure luxury. Aqua villa at Kandima features a private sun-deck with sun loungers and the most incredible huge bathroom with a bathtub overlooking the ocean- absolutely insane! My favourite thing to do after waking up was swapping my pyjama for a swimsuit and going for a morning dip in the lagoon. Best start of the day ever! The things you can see under the water are OUT OF THIS WORLD! (and you have it all to yourself, hihi!) Here’s some photos!
MOVING AROUND
As it’s a huge resort island, Kandima offers bikes rental at $5 per day. It’s such a fun and healthy way to move around. You can rent them anytime- no need to pre-book anything. We kept the bikes outside our villa. If you’re not a fan of cycling, buggy service is available too. Personally I preferred the bikes- didn’t need a gym these days, haha- bikes were less painful work-out!
DINING
Kandima offers lots dining options on the island. There’s 10 restaurants and bars in total. Four a la carte (full dining restaurants), two buffets and two beautiful beach clubs. You can check them all out here. I personally loved the beach club the most- guys it was ALL PINK! There’s nowhere else you could possibly find me, haha!
THINGS TO DO
As mentioned earlier- there’s NO WAY you’ll be bored at Kandima. There’s so much to do. There are cooking classes, art classes ( they have their own art gallery supporting the local artists), yoga classes, kickboxing classes and plenty of night activities. There’s even Forbidden Bar (adults only) accessible through a Kool psychedelic tunnel famous for the best parties! If you need to get some work done, there’s also Aroma Cafe overseeing the salty lake which is such a relaxing place to work or just have a cup of good coffee (yes, there’s a a salty lake on the island!) There’s also a beautiful esKape spa located in the middle of a tropical jungle. I highly recommend trying their famous coconut scrub! For sports lovers there’s a BURN gym, tennis court, basketball court, volleyball court and a football court. Apart from all that you can also be jogging 3km on the most beautiful beaches with no palm trees blocking the way- this is very unique to Kandima!
For water sports lovers there’s also Aquaholics – water sport centre that offers all sports activities including, snorkelling around the most incredible reefs (Dhaalu atoll is one of the most pristine regions in the country), diving with sharks, parasailing and as well as boat trips and team sports. My favourite experience was something that has been on my bucket list forever- floating over fish and baby sharks in the glass-bottom kayak (wearing a flower crown of course, haha!)
Aroma Cafe
KIDS
If you’re travelling as a family, I promise you, there’s no better place to take your little ones than Kandima and its famous Kandiland– the largest kids club in the Maldives equipped with a pirate ship and large in-ground trampoline. When I saw it I honestly couldn’t believe my eyes! Kandiland offers a daily programme full of fun and informative activities and a baby sitting services so the parents can enjoy a little private time on the island too.
WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS
As you already know, Maldives is famous wedding and honeymoon destination. Kandima Maldives offers a tailor-made wedding planning services for your dream wedding. You can choose your dream wedding spot ( there’s few places on the island and on a local picnic island) according to their needs, budget as well as the number of guests. If you have any questions, please e-mail mykindofplace@kandima.com.
For honeymooners, Kandima has the most incredible Honeymoon Aqua Pool Villa, located at the tip of the Aqua Villa jetty, which is the best spot for romantic sunset sessions! I have experienced it myself and sunsets you witness from this villa are insane. Just look at it and imagine being here with your loved one!
Thank you the most incredible stay Kandima! I am sure I will return one day! If you’d like to find out more or book a stay there, click here.
Those of you who follow me on Instagram already know that 2 weeks ago I was so lucky to be invited on a luxury press trip to Cambodia and Laos by Avani Hotels. As I have never been to these countries before I said YES straight away! I’ve also heard a lot of good things about Avani Hotels so thought that would be a perfect opportunity to experience the brand myself. Our trip was quite short – 3 days in each destination, but I am amazed by how much we’ve managed to see so I’ll put my favourite places and things to do in Cambodia and Laos in this blogpost too.
CAMBODIA
First place we got to visit is Cambodia. I was lucky to stay at the newly renovated FCC Angkor Avani Hotel located only 20 mins drive from the airport. What I love about this property the most is the central location – only 10 mins drive from the UNESCO world heritage site of Angkor Wat and right across from the Royal Independence Gardens and Royal Residence. The hotel centres around the former ‘Mansion’ of the French colonial governor, which became the renowned Foreign Correspondence Club and a popular meeting place for local and international journalists, celebrities, and travellers from around the world.
I have fallen in love with the property from the moment I walked in – some places just GET me and FCC Angkor Avani Hotel clearly did! Look at this beautiful entrance! I felt like stepping into an acient fairytale.
The hotel offers 5 different room types ( 80 rooms in total) – deluxe room, deluxe courtyard room ( where I’ve had a chance to stay), premier room, junior suite and governor suite. I absolutely loved the colonial structures with designs inspired by Cambodia’s nature. This hotel had my favourite boho vibes with all the natural tones, wooden floors, rattan furnitures and wooden slippers that I ended up wearing everyday and also brought them with me to London, haha! Our room had a beautiful view over the stylish pool area. Have a peek!
My beautiful room. Will never forget how comfortable this bed was! A little retro touch- how adorable is this type writer on the desk? I’ve only seen it in the movies!
I also need to mention the incredible restaurant and bar that FCC Angkor Avani Hotel has to offer. The main restaurant in the hotel is Mansion Restaurant– a beautiful colonial ( and to me bohemian) style restaurant with outdoor seatings, where you can experience the authentic Cambodian cuisine. I especially enjoyed the breakfasts! I have ordered Khmer noodles the morning we’ve arrived and ended up having it every single day together with a bowl of fresh fruits! Oh how much I miss it!
The hotel also has the beautiful outdoor bar called Scribe, where you can enjoy the most delicious cocktails and admire the nature. It was also my favourite working spot.
What to do in Cambodia?
1. Sunrise at Ankor Wat– absolutely magical, can’t find words to describe it! It’s just something else!
2. Get lost Ta Prohm temple– famous from movie Lara Croft. This place is honestly surreal! This place hold many secrets! You need to see with your eyes!
3. Jewellery workshop with Ammo Jewellery– a social enterprise with a mission to provide specialised design skills to help young and disadvantaged Cambodias unlock their creative potential. I absolutely loved this workshop and had so much fun designing!
LAOS
After an amazing stay in Cambodia we’ve headed to Laos. To be absolutely honest with you, I haven’t heard much about Laos before I was invited for this press trip, but that made me want to go even more. In Laos we’ve stayed at Avani+ Luang Prabang Laos. Another incredible property located in the heart of beautiful Luang Prabang, right opposite the night market and surrounded by dozens of heritage temples and magical Mekong River.
We arrived to Avani + Luang Prabang Hotel at night and even thought I couldn’t really see much, I could already feel how charming, peaceful and elegant this property is. Their 25- metre pool accompanied by sun loungers in a little light impressed me straight away. We’ve headed straight for dinner to their famous restaurant.
The Bistro Restaurant at Avani +Luang Prabang reflects our times, as well as our multi-cultural and multi-ethnic backgrounds. The inspiration comes from classic favourites, and the adaptation comes with local flavours and ingredients. What I loved about this restaurant is that they strive to use sustainably grown products from local farmers using traditional & organic farming & fishing techniques, as well as local artisanal produced sausage, cured meats, cheese & breads (We’ve had a chance to visit one of the farms- the Buffalo Dairy Farm and it was a very interesting experience). The first dinner was a sharing style feast where we’ve got to try many delicious dishes! After the dinner we’ve headed straight to sleep.
The rooms were gorgeous! Will never forget the smell of wood when I stepped in. The decor was minimalistic, natural and light. Avani + Luang Prabang offers 53 rooms in total, with three different room categories – deluxe room, deluxe pool view room and suites. Each room designed to be open-plan, simple and comfortable. Each room is en-suite with a shower and twin vanities- such a great idea when you’re sharing a room with somebody! I’ve stayed at Deluxe Pool View Room and absolutely loved the balcony overlooking the pool. I would normally start my day with a little read, cup of tea, admiring the lush green courtyard.
There’s also a beautiful spa at the hotel with therapies and treatments inspired by Laotian and traditional Asian techniques. I was lucky to have a chance to experience it. I have chosen a full body massage. It was so needed after few intense days! It was lovely!
After the massage we’ve had a couple of hours off so I’ve headed straight to their beautiful pool and enjoyed a little swim followed by a watermelon juice served at the pool bar. They had a great variety of fresh juices and smoothies. Look how beautiful this place was!
Wearing Mavele Swimwear. I absolutely love the print and the colour combination! This model is called Tribal Toucan. You can purchase it here.
What to do in Laos?
1. Visit Kuang Si Waterfall- is a three levelled waterfall. Honestly one of the most beautiful waterfalls my eyes ever seen!
During this trip I was wearing another Mavele bikini! Perfect for a little swim! This model is called Sunshine Fox. You already know how much I love this London based brand. If you’re looking for a new bikini you can have a look at their designs here.
2. Sunset cruise with Mekong Kingdoms – explore the beauty of the Mekong’s powerful waters, admire the incredible views of tropical jungles, mountain peaks, impressive rock formations and authentic villages. Try Laos testing tapas, sip cocktails and watch the sun going down!
3. Dine at Manda de Laos features Laotian Family Cuisine specialties from all regions of Laos. This restaurant is a perfect option for either romantic candle light dinner under the stars, relaxing lunch or magical spot for the cocktail and a sunset watch. It was my favourite dinner during this trip!
4. Experience Alms giving ceremony at sunrise- Luang Prabang’s alms giving Ceremony is a longstanding tradition in Laos Buddhist culture since the 14th century. It takes place daily as the sun rises, beginning on the main street of Luang Prabang. Such an incredible experience!
Here with Bonnie and Chloe waiting for the ceremony to start!
5. Visit Phra Bang temple- there was quite a few temples around but I found this one especially charming.
Thank you Avani Hotels for having me on this wonderful press trip and giving me a chance to experience the culture and the beauty of Cambodia and Laos!
