Unexpected Escapes

It’s all about you.

My skin, glowing with youth.”

“

CLARINS +

The Clarins art of formulation: o ering you the best of science and nature based on our unique knowledge of how to extract the most powerful actives from each plant. New Rose Radiance Cream combines 7 plant extracts to revive skin’s youth and radiance.

INGREDIENTS

Three plant actives for a unique glow. A formula enriched with hibiscus flower acids to gently exfoliate and smooth skin. Organic harungana replenishes and next-generation pearls instantly illuminate.

NEW

Rose Radiance Cream Super Restorative

Smooth. Replenish. Illuminate.

TEXTURE

A sublime texture. Rose Radiance Cream’s fresh, easily-absorbed gel texture and delicate scent of natural rose envelops skin in comfort and leaves it immediately more luminous.

*Satisfaction test, 105 women, 28 days

RESTORE FIRMNESS

TRIPLE LIPID

Discover 16 unique island destinations sprinkled across 100,000 square miles of uninhabited cays and the world’s clearest water. The Islands of The Bahamas – Fly Away. Plan your getaway at Bahamas.com

The Flower Guy

BY VAWN HIMMELSBACH

SSince 1828, Maison Guerlain has drawn inspiration from nature. So it’s not surprising the beauty and fragrance house teamed up with NYC artist Michael De Feo, known as ‘The Flower Guy,’ on its two newest fragrances in the Aqua Allegoria collection: Flora Salvaggia and Nettare di Sole.

De Feo got his start as a street artist, painting flowers on the sides of buildings in Manhattan to bring cheer and whimsy to spaces of concrete and steel (hence, his nickname). For the past 25 years, he’s continued to bring cheer and whimsy to the streets in more than 60 cities, from Miami to Paris to Hong Kong. His stylized flowers — with influences from Dutch 17th century still-life paintings — have also graced the pages of glossy magazines and the walls of art galleries.

De Feo’s penchant for flowers made him a perfect choice to bring Aqua Allegoria to life. His joyful, whimsical illustrations adorn the bottle sleeves, giving them a pop-art feel, and highlight the iconic honeycomb perfume bottles created by sculptor Robert Granai. De Feo took inspiration in his designs from one of Nettare di Sole’s key ingredients: Calabrian bergamot (also one of Guerlain’s signature ingredients), as well as the bees behind the flowers.

Nettare di Sole, or ‘nectar of the sun,’ is an ephemeral honey-inspired scent, while Flora Salvaggia is inspired by a field of wildflowers in summer. The complete Aqua Allegoria collection features 14 fragrances created by Guerlain perfumers Thierry Wasser and Delphine Jelk.

The Flora Salvaggia scent was inspired by a field of wildflowers in the summer.

Landing Gear

No one feels like a million bucks after a long flight, but these carry on-sized editors’ picks go a long way toward getting you touchdown ready.

A spritz built for two. Hermès Eau de Rhubarbe Écarlate was made to share, for her and for him. Crisp citrus and vegetal notes energize the senses while white musk adds a hint of masculinemeets-feminine edge. Canada-en.hermes.com

Brighten up. No sleep on the plane? Hydrate under the eyes with Arbonne Calm Sooth ing Eye Gel to reduce puffiness for an instant, rested look. arbonne.com

Ready, Set, Go. The anti-pollution complex, aloe vera and rose floral water in Clarins Fix’ Make-Up spray do double duty, to protect, hydrate, refresh and soothe skin while in flight. Gentlemen, this one will work for you, too. www.clarins.com

Soothe Operator. Too much sun exposure? La Mer Renewal Oil to the rescue. Infused with the company’s nutrient-rich Miracle Broth and sea-sourced ingredients, it promises to boost the skin’s natural barrier. www.creme delamer.com

Royal Treatment. Repair and plump the skin with Guerlain Abeille Royale Daily Repair Serum, which infuses the skin with the natural healing prop erties of bees, including honey and royal jelly. guerlain.com/ca/en-ca

In-flight facial. His: Elemis ProCollagen Marine Cream for men helps to diminish lines while energizing the skin. And hers: a lightweight moisturizer, such as La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Cream, absorbs quickly, allows for easy reapplication and protects skin from dehydration on board. www.elemis.com; www.laprairie.com

Telling tales

IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK. AT A THREE-CENTURIES-OLD GEORGIAN MANOR NEAR DUBLIN, IT’S ALWAYS STORYTIME

Roundwood House photos by Avril Kennan

At County Laois’s Roundwood House, you’ll want to take off your shoes and stay a while.

Theclassic components of a great Irish story: colourful characters, history, magic, a bit of exaggeration and the feeling that anything is possible. And sometimes the great Irish story is a place, maybe one in Ireland’s County Laois, filled with history but very much about now.

Nestled in more than seven woodland hectares, just over an hour from Dublin, Roundwood House is a B&B with six bedrooms in the main house, four in the second house, two cottages, a library, a dog who gives a walking tour, two little girls, some hens and ducks to greet you on your arrival, three cats in various Irish sunbeams, two guinea pigs and a rooster named Brewster. Obviously, the colourful characters in Ireland don’t stop at people.

When Hannah and Paddy Flynn took over Roundwood House from Hannah’s parents 11 years ago, they were both in their late 20s. Paddy, a musician from Canada, met Hannah in Galway where she was in school. Hannah’s parents had purchased the house in 1988, but its history goes back much, much further. It was likely built in 1741 to fit the demands of a prosperous family of cloth makers. The home itself retains all the charm and feel of when it was originally built, but Downton Abbey stuffy this is not. The Flynns have kept it a warm and welcoming, charming escape from the hustle and bustle. Many original features remain intact, including chimneypieces of black Kilkenny marble in many of the rooms.

Upon arrival at Roundwood House, home-made biscuits, tea and coffee are served in the drawing room, followed by a walking tour of the land and the outbuildings, usually accompanied by an extra tour guide, Rococo, the Flynn family dog, a floppy yellow lab, named after an Arcade Fire song. She who knows the route by heart and may just nudge you back on course should you stray from the itinerary.

A popular destination for weekenders from Dublin, Roundwood House also provides the opportunity for immersion in Irish life by providing communal dining. Breakfast is a Full Irish or vegetarian option and in the evening, guests are treated to a five-course dinner by Paddy, who acts as chef, as well as owner.

“At first the idea of communal dining made me nervous,” says Hannah, “like I was throwing a party every night and would my guests enjoy it. But it’s proven to be one of the features everybody loves.” While she’s in the kitchen, she’ll hear the sounds of laughter, as people who have just met become old friends across the dinner table.

With so much woodland to explore, the house is surrounded by walking paths filled with mature trees and wild grass paths lined by daffodils, bluebells, cornflower, fuchsia, rhododendron and lilac, all set amidst serene vistas. “People always remark on how quiet the place is,” says Hannah. “We’re set quite far from anything else.” Indeed, the nearest town is five kilometres away and there are, quite purposefully, no televisions in the rooms.

Venturing off the property, there are eco walks through the nearby Slieve Bloom, the most unspoiled mountain range in Ireland. Extensive trails wind through woodland and forestry, by rivers and waterfalls and over blanket bog covered in beautiful brown, purple and green wild heather. There are looping walking paths and trails for every level of hiker.

Then it’s back to Roundwood for pre-dinner drinks in the drawing room and your five-course dinner. Your sixth course? A song. Performed in the dining room by the chef himself, Paddy, along with his sous chef Ted, a fellow musician who came to Roundwood for a visit and never left. You may not want to either. Rooms from $165/night. roundwoodhouse.com —

JANE COOPER FORD

ON THESE PAGES: At Roundwood House, the attention to detail is never overly fussy; Rococo the dog is an essential member of the Flynn family.

TOM FORD

Rose Gold Shimmering Oil, 100ml, $122, holtrenfrew.com

PACO RABANNE

1 Million Eau de Toilette spray, 100ml, $108 , thebay.com

Molten Moment

All that glitters? In Dubai, it’s the skyscrapers, reaching up to kiss the clouds, glinting like diamonds in the sun. Think the Burj Khalifa, which holds court over the famed Dubai fountain, its dancing jets of choreographed water rivaled only by those of the Bellagio, in another desert diamond, Las Vegas. But on terra firma, there is history, modernity and a mix of business and tourism that’s gold. Palm Jumeirah is a marvel, a man-made island shaped, yes, like a palm that stretches its fronds just so over the waters of the Arabian Gulf. The nomad will take the city in metallics that shine on, from gold to silver to platinum and bronze, adding the bling factor to dresses, suits, vests—even culottes. Male followers of fashion will navigate the oasis in airy technical fabrics in copper and pearl—perfect for that desert safari. Think rock ’n’ roll nights, silver sequins, a mother lode of liquid satin and studded knits and lace. Tailored suits

TRAVEL ESSENTIAL

CLARINS

Plant Gold L’Or des

Plantes

The first oil-emulsion from Clarins combines the iconic Blue Orchid Treatment Oil with a 100 per cent natural-origin melting emulsion. The ingredients blend together on application to create a lightweight, non-oily texture with a natural aromatic fragrance, helping to deeply nourish, soften and leave skin supple. $68, clarins.ca

GUERLAIN

Terracotta Khol Loose Powder Eyeliner, $54, sephora.com

GIVENCHY

Urban Street metallic leather sneakers, $990, holtrenfrew.com

JIMMY CHOO

Callie nude suede clutch bag with pearls, $3,450, us.jimmychoo.com

GUCCI

Textured metal necklace, $3,400, gucci.com

BOTTEGA VENETA

Satin dress in chalk and champagne, $4,882, bottegaveneta.com

TATEOSSIAN LONDON

Geode stone cufflinks, $665, harryrosen.com

PRADA

Frankenstein-inspired, camp-collar printed shirt, $1,425, mrporter.com

DOLCE & GABBANA

Lily-print cashmere and modal scarf, $710, dolcegabbana.com

TRAVEL

ESSENTIAL

CLARINS

Double Serum

Powered by 20 potent plant extracts plus the star ingredient, turmeric, and high-tech molecules, this multitasking serum creates visibly firmer, more radiant, younger-looking skin in as little as one week. 50ml, $125, clarins.ca

Mohair-blend sweater in red, yellow, black and white, $726, mrporter.com

ZARA

Camel-colour pants with contrasting side stripe, $80, zara.com

Asiatic Lily

When darkness falls this fall, it will no doubt be the backdrop for drama. Oversized blooms, floral prints and garden party patterns that come to life, with a black canvas as their paramour. This is no wallflower trend; it’s feminine meets femme fatale. A hint of lace here, a ruffle there, a bit of chiffon or hard-edged leather thrown into the mix, but the flowers never fade or wilt; they’re a standout way to take on the softer, more spirited city of Kyoto. Known for its otherworldly beauty—in the surroundings, the temples, the gardens and the geishas—Kyoto has long been a place that sparks the imagination. Cherry blossoms, the Golden Temple (also known as Kinkakuji), the ethereal Bamboo Forest and the spectacular views from Kiyomizu-dera Temple are the perfect location for this trend. Anchored by black tights, flats by day, booties or heels by night, this flower power look goes from gyoza dumplings and a tea ceremony to a geisha performance and a karaoke-fuelled night on the town.

JUDITH LEIBER COUTURE

Garland clutch, $5,180, modaoperandi.com

SAPTODJOJOKARTIKO

Embellished sling-back modaoperandi.com

TED BAKER

Heddila small suitcase, $499, tedbaker.com

Dizan floral print long-sleeve silk dress, $1,982, nordstrom.com

DRIES VAN NOTEN

ISABEL BENENATO

Fatou Jobe walks the runway at the Zimmermann Fall/Winter 2019 Fashion Show.

VICTORIA BECKHAM

Leather biker jacket, $3,950, victoriabeckham.com

TRAVEL

ESSENTIAL

CLARINS

Rose Radiance Cream

Combining seven plant extracts and three glowboosting ingredients, the Super Restorative Rose Radiance Cream targets dull, ageing complexions, especially those suffering from dryness, pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. 50ml, $126, clarins.ca

Lady of the Canyon

TThe heat is on. The butte-lined desert scape of Utah stands its neutral ground against the sun, the sand and the scrub, but serves as inspiration to the swirls and whirls of the runway’s obsession with inspiredby-the-elements tones. Long, duster-style coats are reminiscent of Clint Eastwood riding through the canyons; sheer, gauzy skirts and shirt-dresses catch the breeze and graze the ankles à la Westworld, and pants have deep pockets—all the better to stow your necessary cargo. Patterns flow over fabric like undulating dunes or rushing rivers; chocolate and charcoal, stone and sand, pale blue and the earthy ochre of a fiery desert sunset is the colour palette. White is the base element, whether a bathing suit, a strappy flat sandal or an SPFblocking hat.

Men also enjoy their creature comforts, where streetwear and activewear come together seamlessly. Amangiri is remote, as remote as this part of Utah itself. But don’t call this a retreat. It is of the landscape, not an intrusion; a quiet escape at one with the natural world it shares. Now that you’re grounded, just breathe.

CHLOÉ

Nomade Eau de Parfum, 30ml, $89, sephora.com

CLARINS

ClarinsMen Super Moisture Balm, 50ml, $39, thebay.com

Paula flat sandals with braided pattern, $750, loewe.com

SCALA

Straw Panama hat, $181, nordstrom.com

DOLCE & GABBANA

Tropical scenery slimfit printed T-shirt, $745, mrporter.com

MULBERRY

Tony Pilot Sunglasses, $335, mulberry.com/ca

REDVALENTINO

High-waisted pleated belted shorts, $650, saksfifthavenue.com

GUCCI

Belted wool jumpsuit, $4,700, gucci.com

We Salute You

Enlist this… fashion’s current penchant for military goes beyond utilitarian. Camouflage prints, desert-storm khakis— from sandy beige to olive drab—flightschool jumpsuits and stand-at-attention details such as brass buttons, parachute, D-ring buckle belts and combat boots made for walking the walk, are giving this trend its marching orders. For day, the urban warrior will be all business, inspired by Milan’s industrious side. Then mix it up with a take-no-prisoners attitude for evening, or soften it up with bow-tie blouses, satin and knits—with a bit of denim for the boys thrown in. One of Europe’s leading finance hubs, Milan draws visitors in with its after-five appeal: some of the best restaurants in foodie-centric Northern Italy; its historic significance as exhibited in its Duomo di Milano cathedral—an outstanding example of Italian Gothic architecture—and the Santa Maria delle Grazie convent, where you can take in the artist Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece “The Last Supper;” and, of course, being one of the major fashion capitals of the world (think HQ for the likes of Prada, Gucci and Armani). The shopping, particularly in the Quadrilatero d’Oro, is unmatched.

GIVENCHY

Rouge Interdit lipstick, No. 20 Shadow Pink, $42, sephora.com

ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA

Tiziano Calfskin Sneakers, $1,298, harryrosen.com

KAPITAL

Printed cottonjersey T-shirt, $140, mrporter.com

CLARINS

Jolie Blush

Enriched with plant extracts like hazelnut oil, this is our go-to blush for a pop of colour, and to keep our cheeks hydrated and protected throughout the day!

$33, clarins.ca

LONGCHAMP

La Voyageuse Bag, $1,300, longchamp.com

ROBERTO CAVALLI

Snake earrings, $550, robertocavalli.com

FEAR OF GOD

Belted pleated cotton-twill cargo trousers, $1,060, mrporter.com

VICTORIA BECKHAM

Eva Cross-Body Bag, $2,700, victoriabeckham.com

JIMMY CHOO

Beyla 85 snake-printed leather ankle bootie, $1,275, us.jimmychoo.com

Légère, 50ml, $122,

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

CLARINS

Everlasting Youth Foundation You’ll love the ultra-sensorial texture of Everlasting Youth Fluid, which is both creamy yet lightweight. Composed of plumping konjac micropearls, nourishing argan oil and skin-tightening organic oat sugars, it helps restore firmer, fuller, smoother skin. $56,

STRIVECTIN

Say goodbye to fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, enlarged pores and dullness with the famed stretch mark cream turned anti-wrinkle phenomenon StriVectin SD Advanced Plus Intensive Moisturizing Concentrate

VICTORIA

BECKHAM

Pocket detail crewneck, $1,400, victoriabeckham.com

High pleated waist, cuffed ankle pants, $2,365, brunellocucinelli.com

Getting Fleeced

Winter is coming. We’ve been in love with puffy down coats over the past few seasons—even the Michelin-man-oversized parkas have had their moment. But now there’s a new kid in town. Blame it on one of the nastiest cold-weather stretches in years (or the Game of Thrones phenomenon) and we’re suddenly all about getting cozy. Colour-blocked fuzzy sweaters, sherpa-inspired bomber jackets and curly-textured coats, with nods to shearling and Mongolian lamb, are showing up in all manner of fleece fabrications just in time to layer up for autumn. The allure of the north comes naturally in Oslo, where adventurers can satiate their appetites for crisp days, cool nights and the Northern Lights. This is the land that spawned the mythological gods Odin and Thor, a Viking history that still intrigues us to this day, and legends of the kings that built the Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle from 1299 that still stands today. The sculptor Gustav Vigeland is celebrated here, a contemporary of the likes of Rodin, and fjord-hopping is an explorer’s art in itself. Of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the 35 Michelin-starred restaurants. If you must wear your fleece, please ensure it’s golden.

REBECCA DE RAVENEL

Pomegranate crystalembellished earrings, $430, modaoperandi.com

JIL SANDER

Beige reversible down coat, $3,350, jilsander.com

VALENTINO

Camo puffer jacket, $2,780, saksfifthavenue.com

Formulated with an upgraded Collagex-CE Complex, Copper Tripeptides and proprietary Marine Ferment, this cream provides deep moisturizing action, targets collagen III, youth collagen, promotes elasticity and dramatically reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 4 oz, $186, strivectin.com

VERSACE

Chain Reaction panelled calf hair, rubber and suede sneakers, $1,418, mrporter.com

ROBERTO CAVALLI

Chimera fringed sweater, $1,380, robertocavalli.com

MVST SELECT

AL9 aluminium suitcase in navy, $526, mvstselect.com

CAROLINA HERRERA

Good Girl Eau de Parfum

sephora.com

BRUNELLO CUCINELLI

NOW BELFAST

Photo by James Kennedy/Shutterstock

The lights come up on Belfast’s River Lagan.

TITANIC-OBSESSED? OR KEEN TO EXPLORE THE DRAMATIC HALLMARKS OF THE CITY’S TURBULENT PAST? DOUG O’NEILL REPORTS ON THE ESSENTIAL NORTHERN IRELAND STAY

CULINARY WALKABOUT

Belfast Bred is the only theatrical culinary walking tour in the Northern Ireland capital. The experience combines history, heritage and haute cuisine—and not-so-haute cuisine as guides wander by upscale eateries, through markets and back alleys. Expect lots of tasty samples along the way. visitbelfast.com

TROUBLES BEHIND US

Belfast residents don’t dance around the issue of The Troubles, the turbulent period that cast a pall on Northern Ireland from the 1970s to 1990s. Black Cab Tours host informative and engaging driving tours (with plenty of stops) to visit historical sites, especially the famous murals in the Shankhill neighbourhood. touringaroundbelfast.com

ICEBERG HO!

First, a tip for enthusiasts heading to Titanic Belfast: skip the lineup and purchase your tickets in advance. That will give sufficient time to tour the nine interactive galleries, the shipyard, the SS Nomadic (the Titanic ’s tender ship), room upon room of artefacts from the doomed RMS Titanic and displays chronicling the history of ship-building in Northern Ireland. titanicbelfast.com

SHOPPING SPREE

Visitors will find most major brands in Victoria Square Belfast (it’s home to the only Apple store in all of Ireland). There are also one-ofa-kind independent shops in Queen’s Quarter neighbourhood (close to Queen’s University) and lots of designer shops on Lisburn Road. Note: Many stores are closed on Sunday or operate on reduced hours. The historic St. George’s Market is open on Fridays and weekends. Go first thing in the morning to hear buskers as you enjoy breakfast. visitbelfast.com

Titanic tours by day, tippling by night. Get to the heart of Belfast by exploring its distinct neighbourhoods.

First-time visitors: start in the Cathedral Quarter

EAT

GRANDIOSE GOURMET

Glass cupola. Ireland’s largest chandelier. Victorian Era interior. That’s the Great Room Restaurant at the elegant Merchant Hotel, where guests’ eyes instinctively drift from the four-star menu to the ornate plasterwork on the ceiling. And kudos to the kitchen: the Great Room offers both vegetarian and gluten-free Afternoon Tea. themerchanthotel.com

ITALO-IRISH

The menu at Coppi changes seasonally, but mainstays include Sicilian goat and fennel sausage. It’s reminiscent of the starters you’d typically enjoy in a Venetian bar, which best describes the ambience. Lots of chatter across the heavy wooden tables. coppi.co.uk

KITCHEN UN-CONFIDENTIAL

Tucked away on Warehouse Lane behind the cathedral, The Muddlers Club’s success is enhanced by the open kitchen, which allows chefs to show off their theatrics to hungry diners. The menu does an equally fine job of showcasing local food producers. Excellent seafood. themuddlersclubbelfast.com

RIVERSIDE REPAST

Michelin-award winning chef Stephen Toman works his magic in the kitchen of the 40-seat riverside restaurant Ox, where fresh vegetables, fish and the finer cuts of venison and beef dominate the menu. The minimalist décor attracts hipsters and serious foodies alike. oxbelfast.com

PLENTY OF FISH

The Irish take their fish and chips seriously. Fish City in Belfast won the Best Fish and Chip Restaurant in all of Ireland in 2018, not only for cooking up the best-tasting dish, but for its commitment to sustainability. fish-city.com

Michelin to minimalist, elegant to egalitarian, Belfast’s restaurant scene has undergone a revolution of its own

DRINK

MEMORIES AND MEMORABILIA

The bric-a-brac on the walls of the Duke of York (lots of signage chronicling Belfast’s distilling history) rivals the city’s archives. The pub, which is accessed down a narrow cobbled alleyway, is an institution, and so it should be after its 200year history interrupted only by a bomb or two in the 1970s. Mind the house rule: “Respect the people around you and that waving your money at the staff behind the bar doubles your waiting time.” dukeofyorkbelfast.com

JAMESON’S WITH YOUR JAVA?

The most visible nod to modernity at the Dark Horse, a Duke of York sister property, is the Game of Thrones -themed door at the entrance, which you could enter as early as 9am for a mug of coffee or Suki tea. Otherwise, the interior speaks to a public house era of polished copper and mirrored walls. Ideal for afternoon pints after a city walk-about. dukeofyorkbelfast.com

FOR A GOOD CRAIC

The vaulted ceiling and elbow-worn bar of Kelly’s Cellars haven’t seen a huge update in décor since the two-storey pub opened in 1720. The camaraderie bespeaks authentic pub culture, as does the traditional Gaelic entertainment. kellyscellars.com

WHERE CLOCKS STOP

A tasting menu of cocktails? It’s an option at Rita’s Belfast, which bills itself as a “beer and cocktail club.” The staff mixologists get creative with gin. An upbeat (fairly well-dressed) crowd, especially at the end of the work day. ritasbelfast.com

A penchant for pubs. We’ll drink to that

LITTLE BIT OF THIS, LITTLE BIT OF THAT

Juxtaposition is everything at the Maldron Hotel Belfast City (not to be confused with the airport location). Imagine a modern, slightly funky hotel (the closest you’ll get to Scandinavian minimalism in Ireland) that’s surrounded by time-honoured drinking holes, such as the Crown Liquor Saloon, that date back to the 18 th century. maldronhotelbelfastcity.com

LUXURY ON THE LOUGH

If winning the Luxury Hotel of the Year Award (for all of Ireland) in 2017 doesn’t bolster the appeal of the historic Culloden Estate & Spa, there’s always the view: the former mansion, built in 1876, stands high on Holywood Hills overlooking Belfast Lough and the County Antrim coastline. The onsite Cultra Inn sources the finest local ingredients, such as Irish scampi. hastingshotels.com

SHIPYARD DIGS

If you want to anchor yourself close to the world’s largest Titanic visitor attraction, then enjoy the thrill of sleeping in the former headquarters of Harland & Wolff, builders of the RMS Titanic titanichotelbelfast.com

ART DECO MEETS VICTORIAN

A $27.7-million update hasn’t detracted from The Merchant Hotel’s Old World charm in the heart of the city’s Cathedral Quarter. Guests can settle into a fourposter bed in a suite steeped in all things Victorian, or opt for an Art Deco-styled room. The Rosetteaward-winning Great Room is one of Belfast’s more popular fine dining options. For drinks, there’s Bert’s Jazz Lounge, the best of its kind in the city, or the Champagne Lounge. themerchanthotel.com

NO LONGER MOST BOMBED

Built in 1971, the Europa Hotel on Great Victoria Street earned the distinction during The Troubles of Northern Ireland as the most bombed hotel in Europe. The loudest it gets these days is the Piano Lounge late night on weekends. hastingshotels.com

Belfast’s hotels achieve that delicate balance between traditional and trendy, serving up a taste of Old World charm with haute cuisine and maybe a hot tub

Here, palm tree-lined white sandy beaches blend into crystal clear waters, all captured underneath a sunny blue sky

“ “

A walk down the beach of Cap Cana, outside Punta Cana.

A LITTLE ROMANCE

WE ARE LYING ON OUR BEACH BED, legs draped across one another, gazing across the white sand at the sparkling blue waters, each of us with a glass of prosecco in hand. I smile at my husband as the waiter comes and refills our flutes. Our time at The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palms Real, about a half-hour drive from the Punta Cana airport, has been a celebration of us, our family and our love, capturing romance in a way only the Dominican Republic can. We aren’t the only couple here: Dotted across the beach are other lovers soaking in the sun, bobbing in the ocean and enjoying their time together in this Caribbean paradise. Often it’s the details, rather than the drama of the location and the building design, that makes for the perfect romantic getaway. The concierge service here is second to none; our butler is a master of discreetly delivering bubbly and chocolate to our room while we are sunning in a private cabana by the large pool or enjoying our large rain shower, which is clearly built for two. Bottles of wine, liqueur for our coffees and fresh flowers find their way to our room on a daily basis, our balcony prepared for watching the vivid oranges, pinks and reds streak the sky at sunset.

The night is warm and our cheeks are glowing from the day’s sunshine. Before dinner, we head to the stylish lobby bar for a cocktail. A live band hums in the background while we make our way to the lobby beds, cabanas made for two. Here, in our bubble, we savour our drinks, watch other guests wander by and, most importantly, spend uninterrupted time connecting and laughing with one another.

Although we don’t need to make reservations at one of the resort’s many restaurants, our concierge lets our favourite steak brasserie know when we are coming. This venue understands the delicate balance between too much and too little lighting, music that is too loud or too soft, and service that is neither overbearing nor absent. When we arrive, a table for two is candlelit and waiting, a bottle of luscious red breathing between a pair of wine glasses. It is the perfect location for enjoying an exquisite meal with the one I love.

The manicured lawns and meandering paths between the villas are perfect for a handheld stroll back to our room. The idyllic lighting along the stone walkways makes it easy to steal kisses and capture moments in the moonlight while crickets sing nearby and a sky full of stars serenade us from above. It’s as if we’ve fallen into a movie.

Romantic indulgence comes naturally here: As one of the Caribbean’s top wedding destinations, the Dominican Republic knows all about passion. Here, palm tree lined white sandy beaches blend into crystal clear waters, all captured underneath a sunny blue sky. The country features a number of adult-only resorts, some on their own private islands but all with discreet yet obliging staff.

Year-round sunshine, colourful sunsets and picture-perfect views create the ideal setting for candlelit dinners on the sand, unwinding at natural beach spas and holding your partner close beneath a beautiful waterfall. As we fall into each other’s arms at the end of a lazy day, we are grateful to have found ourselves a piece of paradise. melia.com

NATALIE PREDDIE

“Our butler is a master of discreetly delivering bubbly and chocolate to our room”

The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palms Real is a feast for all the senses.

At Punta Cana’s CHIC By Royalton Resort, style is of the essence.

Punta Cana’s

CHIC By Royalton Resort is one of a new generation of properties that brings the bling.

TIME WAS, turquoise waters and white-sand beaches were all you needed to lure visitors to the Caribbean. Now, it takes bells and whistles piled on thick to stand out in the sea of resorts clambering for increasingly fickle dollars.

No one knows this better than CHIC By Royalton Resort, which bills itself as an “all-exclusive” luxury experience on the golden sands of Uvero Alto beach just north of Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. While the DR is well-known for its affordable fun along the Coconut Coast, an injection of style is trending in this part of the Caribbean, as hints of opulence and the promise of a grownup vacation experience ignites the imaginations of 25- to 50-somethings looking to be pampered.

More casually known as CHIC Punta Cana, this adultsonly, 320-room retreat comes by its name honestly enough. The style is an intriguing mix of Las Vegas and South Beach, which sounds incongruous, but actually works. I found that by embracing the glam of both vibes, I was able to enjoy the place to the fullest. When in Rome, right?

The all-in luxury concept seems to tick all the right boxes at CHIC, starting with its lineup of à la carte restaurants, which cover a wide culinary swath: Italian, Japanese, Middle Eastern, Texan!—each designed to the hilt. There’s a giant pool, of course, with private cabanas, and the beach is practically two steps away. A main bar and a pool bar are augmented with a sports bar and billiards lounge that doubles as a nightclub. Unlike most sunspot resort nightclubs that are full-on cheese, this one I actually enjoyed spending time in. To prop up the Vegas effect, a sizeable casino—offering Blackjack, Roulette and slot machines—is open from noon until 3am. To amp up the Miami factor, the Detox Oxygen Bar yields “recreational” oxygen shots and healthy drinks to bring guests back up to speed.

CHIC is not the only one trying to forge its own path along this particular coastline. Other luxe brands offer an alternative to the rustic beach style the island is famous for, so you can dip your painted toes in more exclusive waters. Big

chain-wise, Royal Service at the Paradisus Punta Cana, for example, is incredibly skilled at delivering total luxury beach escapes. And Exclusive Resorts, with boutique properties that include the Eden Roc Cap Cana, can offer a quieter, more private side of the Dominican.

At CHIC, I zeroed in immediately on the Diamond Club upgrade, which presents extremely good value, an ultra-important factor with this crowd; the well-to-do do love their perks. Bring on the private check-in lounge, butler service, exclusive pool and beach areas, access to the Club Lounge, which is where I found the premium spirits, an upgraded room-service menu, plus the pièce de la résistance : access to the Mermaid Pool, its mosaic tiling and glass walls perfect for that living-the-lifestyle photo op. Did I completely lose myself in the overall aura of this sexy spot? Yes, and with ease. Next time, though, I’m bringing my friends: The resort also has an over-the-top sixbedroom mansion with my name all over it. From $350/night. ChicResorts.com

DOUG WALLACE

T“Hints of opulence and the promise of a more grownup vacation experience”

Cabo GRANDE

Forget weddin g jitter s. At the sumptuous new Grand Velas Los Cabos, Paul Gallant discovers thoughtful design and convivial staff inspire rest and relaxation – all leading up to a stress-free big day.

Photography by Victor Elias

Ipress a button on the grey stone wall beside the pool and, to my surprise, water jets erupt to massage my legs. On another wall, I press a button and, surprise again, cushions of tickly bubbles percolate up from the submerged chaise lounge chair I’m lying/floating on. Relaxing and diverting on its own, the seven-step journey through the hydrotherapy pool at Grand Velas Los Cabos is even more fun when you have someone with you to speculate on what the next button will trigger and how good it’s going to feel.

The huge spa at this shiny new hotel is certainly an otherworldly treat; the hydrotherapy pool, the treatment rooms and even the invigoratingly icy cold room are all designed to transport visitors from their everyday cares and worries. The Pacific sun, shining as we take a step outside the spa, reminds us what kind of earthly paradise the place is. Located on the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific, the region is known for its rocky, cactus-covered terrain and its clear, star-filled skies. Launched last December, the US$150-million resort is a truly Baja celebration of its beachfront location, the dreamy landscape, contemporary Mexican design and cuisine and other pampering pleasures. The elegant curve of the resort’s facade, pink and green foliage bursting from the balconies of its 304 rooms, directs all attention to the blue-hued horizon.

The fifth resort to be established by Juan and Eduardo Vela Ruiz, brothers originally from Tampico, Tamaulipas, on Mexico’s Gulf Coast, Grand Velas Los Cabos perfects the approach

that won them so much acclaim for their Riviera Maya resort, which opened in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula in 2008. Not only does the all-inclusive brand eschew the generic food, paucity of service and lack of thoughtful design that can characterize some all-inclusive experiences, the brand set out to make these offerings their strengths. The look, feel and taste of the place – with interiors from heavy hitting designers, including Eduardo Vela Ruiz himself – is all elegantly aligned, from the brilliantly turquoise tile in Frida restaurant to the groovy lounge vibe of Koi bar.

Located mid-way on the coastal corridor between artsy San Jose del Cabo and party town Cabo San Lucas, the resort is as well situated as it is well appointed. (“Los Cabos” usually describes the two towns and the surrounding areas, though you’ll hear Americans lazily melt it all down to just “Cabo,” which simply means “Cape.”) After Hurricane Odile battered the region in 2014, the destination was forced to reinvent itself. It has done so with enthusiasm, imagination and a decidedly upscale sensibility. Currently the fastest growing region in Mexico, Los Cabos has 16,000 hotel rooms and 4,000 on the way. Obviously, the deserty romance of the place drives much of the renewal; the destination is hosting the Annual Destination Wedding Planners Congress next year, drawing more than 600 of the wedding world’s elite from more than 65 countries.

The Grand Velas has led the way in making Los Cabos a wedding mecca. The hotel’s dedicated Wedding Showroom, infinitely photographable spaces (the vast Terraza del Mar, overlooking the Sea of Cortes, can accommodate 600 people) and the team’s focus on getting all the details exactly right – along with novel offerings like drone filming – make it easy for a couple to celebrate their nuptials their own way.

“WITHOUT A MOMENT’S HESITATION, my personal concierge changes direction to join me on my walk”

THE BEST OF LOS CABOS

Grand Velas Los Cabos grabbed headlines earlier this year when it announced its US$25,000 taco. With langoustine, Kobe beef, Almas Beluga caviar and black truffle brie cheese on a gold flakeinfused corn tortilla, the taco treat is the ultimate romantic gesture. A portion of the cost goes toward a local children’s charity.

On Thursday evening, head to San Jose del Cabo’s weekly Art Walk in the town’s charming gallery district. Stop by Drift San José’s Mezcal Tasting Bar for a smart drink with Los Cabos’s young seeand-be-seen crowd. driftsanjose.com

In Cabo San Lucas, Visit Cabo Adventures to book a sunset sail or, for couples who love swimming, a snorkeling adventure tour. cabo- adventures.com

On arrival, the first thing I notice – besides the dramatic three-storey lobby that shows off the ocean view from the minute my ride pulls up – is the service, which perfectly balances professionalism with genuine big-hearted friendliness. With a staff ratio of three to one, no question or desire goes unanswered for long. Heading to the pool one afternoon, I pass Oswaldo, the personal concierge for my floor. Without a moment’s hesitation, he changes direction to join me on my walk and, after asking about the previous day’s activities, makes some suggestions for the evening. By the time we part, I have a dinner reservation, an after-dinner plan and the confidence that my room will be made up before my time in the sun is over. Poolside, I regularly fail to make it to the bottom of my cocktail before I’m offered a new one, each made according to my earlier request. Nothing is forgotten here.

The resort’s five fine-dining restaurants are attractions in their own right, with guests from other hotels dropping by to explore the menus. Cocina de Autor, helmed by Michelin-starred chef Sidney Schutte from the Netherlands, is already famous for its playful molecular tasting menu (think red snapper topped with oyster, Iberian ham and lychee foam), while Velas 10 attracts more traditional taste buds with seafood and steak classics.

Then again – especially for those who might be coming down to earth after intense wedding celebrations – the 24-hour room service menu makes it mighty easy to stay in the room. The views, and likely the company, will be stunning.

All-inclusive rooms for two people from CAD$1,500. loscabos.grandvelas.com

UNEXPECTED ESCAPES

From beautiful beaches to grand adventures and off the beaten path escapes into the wilderness, luxury planner and Virtuoso adviser, MAHLA POURSHAMSA gives Yes, I Do! the inside track on the hottest honeymoon destinations around the world.

TAKE A FLIGHT

Behold the most romantic places for a honeymoon worthy of taking a flight.

BALI

A perfect juxtaposition of adventure and zen, Bali is a jewel in Asia’s crown. Ubud, the art capital of Bali has galleries, lively restaurants and bars, local art and temples worth visiting while nearby Uluwatu offers the much-needed zen to shake off the wedding planning process. Stay right in the heart of Ubud’s emerald rice fields at the luxurious Chedi Club Tanah Ganjah for a dose of culture paired with the most breathtaking sunrises. For the ultimate in architecture, luxury and privacy, opt for one of Alila Uluwatu’s one bedroom pool villas. (alilahotels.com/uluwatu) & (ghmhotels.com/ en/tanah-gajah/)

COLOMBIA

The only country in the southern region to border both the Atlantic and Pacific, charismatic Colombia boasts charming colonial cities, the Andes as a backdrop and glittering coastlines primed to be explored. As a honeymoon destination, Colombia will be sure to leave an everlasting memory on all your senses. Visit Medellin for a cultural experience, a fascinating case study on urban planning for social change and a countryside just an hour away for sighting of the region’s most dramatic landscape. Then pair the Antioquia region with a short flight south to romantic Cartagena and spend the second half of your honeymoon on a beach. Art Hotel Medellin is in the perfect neighbourhood to explore magical Medellin on foot while Casa Lola , in the heart of old town Cartagena offers a lovely base in Cartagena and possibly the best tasting coffee in town. (casalola.com/casalola_cartagena) & (en. arthotel.com.co)

bound to meet. For an All Inclusive experience and a Butler to anticipate your every need, stay at Sandals LaSource and opt for the Ocean View Suite with balcony tranquility soaking tub. After all, when was the last time your entire balcony was a pool?! (sandals.com/ destinations/grenada/)

MOROCCO

A once in a lifetime honeymoon deserves a once in a lifetime destination. Watch the sun rise over the desert on a hot air balloon ride or get lost in the walled medina for endless narrow aisles of textiles, jewellery, mouthwatering local dishes and snake charmers. Marrakech and nearby Essaouira paired for the perfect culture and coastal duo are bound to feed all your honeymoon desires. Book early in one of Riad Nora ’s 5 rooms, formerly a part of the 19th century Bahia Palace. (riad-nora.com)

GRENADA

Known as the Spice Island! The lesser familiar of the Caribbean islands, Grenada has managed to maintain its charismatic Caribbean vibe and energetic spirit while owning luxurious accommodation options. Proud of the island’s both black and white sand, cascading cliffs and a vast coastline, world class amenities and an authentic backdrop, Grenadians are some of the most friendly and welcoming locals you are

RIDE THE RAILS

Succulent gastronomy paired with local wines! Spectacular vistas, private Chefs and more …. These four trips around the world conjure the best of old-school rolling romance

BELMOND SOUTH EAST ASIA RAIL JOURNEY

Care to unpack your suitcase just once and roam between world class cities such as Singapore and Kuala Lumpur? Look no further! With a 60 guest limit, the Belmond Fables of the Peninsula offers a personalized service to each guest combined with luxurious accommodations on a 6 night journey through South East Asia. Your adventure begins at the famous Raffles Hotel in Singapore and touches through Malaysia’s Cameron Highlands and charming Penang. (belmond.com/eastern-andoriental-express)

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER’S FIRST PASSAGE TO THE WEST

A journey unlike any other through Canada’s breathtaking natural wonders. The luxurious, ever so reputable Rocky Mountaineer offers a gourmet kitchen, local wines from British Columbia’s finest wineries and crisp mountain air to enjoy in an open air vestibule. This route takes you through spectacular vistas of Lake Louise and Banff while introducing you to a piece of Canadian history on a safe, stress-free journey. (rockymountaineer.com)

NAPA VALLEY WINE TRAIN

Vintage railcars beautifully restored to boast modern amenities combined with the perfect dose of old world charm, brass accents, velveteen chairs and an observation deck made to enjoy Napa’s invigorating air. Best part of it all, the perfect bottle of wine is never far from reach. What more could a honeymooner ask for? (winetrain.com)

ROVOS AFRICA

Go chasing waterfalls! And do so on one of the world’s most spectacular rail journeys. A journey through time, history, culture, and the ever so breathtaking Victoria Falls. Top off your honeymoon by indulging your adventurous side on a white water rafting excursion on the mighty Zambezi river, where your cruise journey ends. (rovos.com/journeys/victoria-falls)

OUR EXPERT

Mahla Pourshamsa is a luxury planner and Virtuoso adviser, founder of The Eventeur (theeventeur.com)

REDISCOVER NICARAGUA

THE NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL GEM OF CENTRAL AMERICA

With a unique mix of unspoilt natural beauty, volcanic vistas and rainforests, white sand beaches, and stunning colonial architecture, Nicaragua is a truly dynamic destination. It’s these essential elements and the warmth of its people that make Nicaragua naturally beautiful …and a destination you owe it to yourself to visit. Here are five essential reasons why Nicaragua should be on your bucket list.

1. UNCOVER COLONIAL ARCHITECTURE AND HISTORY

With a fascinating and complex history, Nicaragua has a richness in art, architecture, and culture that any other country would be envious of. Nowhere is this more evident than in Granada, Nicaragua’s oldest city and foremost cultural centre. Resplendent with classic colonial architecture and anachronistic charm, Granada is the sum of Nicaragua’s history crystallized into one urban tapestry. Whether you’re wandering the streets and museums or just taking in the performances in the square, Granada is where history comes to life…and where you will, too.

2. ECO-EXPERIENCES

Eternally misty and more than a little mysterious, Nicaragua’s famous

cloud forests tempts travelers with a hiking experience unlike any other. Charming sky bridges snakes between secluded rainforest canopies, the thrill of tropical birds and rare howler monkeys punctuating the forest’s magical ambiance. Whether you’re wandering the walkways of Maderas or soaring through Mombacho by zipline, Nicaragua’s Natural beauty is sure to leave you on cloud nine.

3. TAKE A DAY AT THE BEACH

Nicaragua wouldn’t be Central America’s most complete destination without incredible beaches. Located 50 miles off Nicaragua’s east coast, the unassuming Little Corn Island deserves special recognition. This humble, verdant jewel looks like something off a postcard, seducing visitors with its calm cerulean waters. Little Corn Island may be out of sight, but like the rest of Nicaragua, this idyllic escape deserves to be top of mind.

4. THE ADVENTURE

Nicaragua is an adventurer’s paradise. With 78 protected areas and a plethora of natural parks, the hiker, spelunker, and kayaker will be spoiled for choice. Eternally misty cloud forests tempt travellers to navigate their canopy

walkways while the black sands of the Cerro Negro welcome the thrillseeker for an afternoon of volcano boarding.

5. COFFEE TRAILS

If you love a good cup of joe, Nicaragua is where you must go. The green hills of the Nicaraguan countryside serve as the perfect growing environment for some truly delectable organic blends. Mildly acidic with a smooth body and a nutty bouquet, Nicaragua’s sustainably grown coffee beans have been winning fans the world over. Part countryside sightseeing, part caffeinated heaven, a “coffee tour” in Matagalpa is all you’ll need to become a true believer.

Start planning your visit today at: VISITNICARAGUA.US

ADVENTURE IS ON THE HORIZON

Plan your next Nicaraguan adventure at VISITNICARAGUA.US

SANDBOARDING, CERRO NEGRO VOLCANO

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