Tag: Global Trend Monitor

Jamaica – the Heart of the Caribbean

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Shereen Shabnam

Jamaica, a vibrant island nation, is a treasure trove of rich culture, spirited adventures, and serene landscapes. From the bustling streets of Kingston to the tranquil shores of Montego Bay, Jamaica offers a diverse tapestry of experiences that cater to the luxury traveler and cultural enthusiast alike and I was lucky to explore both cities during a recent visit, on my way to experience the local coffee festival.

My journey began in Montego Bay, a city synonymous with crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes. Here, the Martha Bray River offered an enchanting river rafting experience. Gliding down the gentle river on a bamboo raft, I immersed myself in the peaceful sounds of nature, stopping along the banks to savor fresh coconuts and sugarcane—an authentic taste of local life before venturing to Kingston.

In Kingston, the capital’s energetic pulse was palpable. A highlight was the Kingston Creative Artwalk, where the streets burst into a kaleidoscope of colors, showcasing vibrant murals and street art that narrate the city’s rich cultural heritage. 

The Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Festival was a vibrant fair that celebrated all aspects of coffee culture. This festive event featured live music and dance performances, creating a lively atmosphere that resonated through the area. Local artisans displayed their crafts, adding a unique cultural touch to the festival. 

Additionally, a food truck area offered a variety of culinary delights, while numerous coffee manufacturers provided free tastings and the opportunity to purchase their exquisite coffees. This combination of music, dance, art, and coffee created a dynamic and immersive experience for all attendees.

Not far from these colorful displays, the Emancipation Park, which was across the Pegasus hotel where I stayed, offered a serene escape, with its sprawling lawns and symbolic sculptures celebrating freedom and artistic expression.

As my visit coincided with Ramadan, I paid a visit to the Mahdi Mosque in Old Harbour which provided a profound insight into the local Muslim community’s life, adding a unique spiritual dimension to my visit. The warmth and hospitality of the residents there were truly heartwarming.

Café Blue was a morning delight with its scenic vistas. Sipping on locally sourced Blue Mountain coffee and indulging in exquisite chocolates, I felt the essence of Jamaica’s renowned coffee culture. The Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Festival further enriched this experience, uniting coffee lovers with farmers and baristas in a celebration of Jamaica’s famed brew.

The Craighton Coffee Estate tour was an educative journey into the world of coffee. Learning about the unique selling points of local coffee directly from the growers offered invaluable insights into what makes Jamaican coffee a global favorite.

A visit to Devon House was not complete without trying the iconic patties and homemade ice cream. Each bite offered a taste of local flavors and traditions, rounding off the culinary exploration.

My last destination in Kingston was a visit to the Bob Marley Museum, which was a profound journey through the life and legacy of the reggae legend. Housed in Marley’s original home, the museum encapsulates his musical career and his influence on the world. Highlights included personal memorabilia, his home recording studio, and the open garden area. 

The experience was deepened by an impromptu drum session by Bongo Herman, a renowned percussionist who played with Marley, echoing the vibrant spirit of Marley’s music and messages of peace and unity. I then returned to Montego Bay with a heavy heart and the feeling that my days in Kingston were not enough and the vibe in the city made me more determined to return to its fold.

Jamaica’s allure is undeniable – from its rhythmic cultural beats to its lush, verdant mountains and the deep blue of its waters. Each moment spent here promises a blend of relaxation, discovery, and indulgence, making Jamaica a must-visit destination on every coffee lover and every luxury traveller’s map.

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Aromatic Elegance: Givenchy’s La Collection Particulière Unveils ‘Les Jardins Particuliers’

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Natasha Dury

Hubert de Givenchy, an icon of 20th-century fashion, was also a connoisseur of the French “art de vivre.” His residences, from his Parisian Hôtel Particulier to the Château du Jonchet in the Loire Valley, served as sanctuaries of exquisite decor and hubs of inspiration, frequented by a diverse group of muses, artists, and friends.

La Collection Particulière invites us into this exclusive world, offering scents that capture the essence of these charismatic personalities. It all began at the Hôtel Particulier, inspiring the perfumes of the collection, which now finds its latest expressions in the gardens of the Château du Jonchet. Here, the ‘Les Jardins Particuliers’ series emerges, epitomizing elegance and freshness through three new fragrances: L’Enfant Terrible, Tapageur, and Désobéissant.

Each fragrance draws on the principles of French-style gardens, which emphasize symmetry and harmony, creating a stunning visual and olfactory balance. These gardens are a tribute to Givenchy’s love for meticulously designed landscapes, where every element is perfectly placed, mirroring the careful composition of each scent.

The three new perfumes belong to the Intense Fresh olfactory family, renowned for their fresh yet potent signatures. A notable element uniting these fragrances is the SFE* black tea note, extracted from hand-harvested leaves from the mountains of Sri Lanka, lending an intense and sophisticated freshness.

  • L’Enfant Terrible echoes Givenchy’s own rebellious spirit, blending radiant Calabrian bergamot with upcycled cedar for a memorable, enveloping scent.
  • Tapageur stands out with its boisterous, exuberant character, combining sparkling green mandarin with creamy sandalwood and a unique fraction of orange blossom.
  • Désobéissant is defiantly bold, pairing bright citron with Scots pine and a striking cardamom essence, creating a chic, modern composition.

These fragrances are housed in vividly colored bottles, each representing its key ingredients, contained in Givenchy’s signature architectural bottle adorned with a lacquered black cap featuring a metallic 4G logo.

La Collection Particulière not only reflects Givenchy’s legacy in fashion but also his deep appreciation for art and beauty, making each fragrance a masterpiece of perfumery.

Dynamic and diverse Taipei: A Vibrant Blend of Tradition and Modernity

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Shereen Shabnam

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, is a dynamic city that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge modernity. From towering skyscrapers to serene temples, bustling night markets to tranquil parks, Taipei offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveller. I had ventured into Taiwan for the famous lantern festival, but my journey started with exploring the vibrant parts of Taipei.

My hotel was close to Taipei 101 so naturally this was my first stop. Once the tallest building in the world, Taipei 101 is an architectural marvel. Visitors can take the high-speed elevator to the observation deck on the 89th floor for breath-taking views of the city. The skyscraper also houses a shopping mall with luxury brands and gourmet restaurants.

Next was the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall. This iconic landmark is dedicated to the former President of the Republic of China, Chiang Kai-Shek. The grand hall, surrounded by beautiful gardens, features a large statue of Chiang and a museum detailing his life and Taiwan’s history.

The National Palace Museum is another information filled attraction. Home to one of the largest collections of Chinese art and artifacts in the world, the National Palace Museum is a must-visit. The extensive collection includes ancient jade, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings. Taipei also has The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and the Taipei Fine Arts Museum to showcase a wide range of contemporary and modern art from Taiwan and around the world.

If you like temples, the Longshan Temple is one of Taipei’s oldest and most famous one and it is a stunning example of traditional Taiwanese architecture. It serves as a spiritual centre for locals and a fascinating cultural site for visitors.

For shopping, there are many options but my guide highly recommends Ximending. Often referred to as the “Harajuku of Taipei,” Ximending is a lively shopping district known for its trendy fashion boutiques, street food, and entertainment options. It’s a popular spot for young people and tourists alike.

The  Taipei 101 Mall is also ideal for luxury shopping, as an upscale shopping center that features high-end international brands, designer boutiques, and fine dining establishments. The Shilin Night Market is also a must as it offers a wide array of goods, from clothing and accessories to electronics and souvenirs. The market is also a foodie paradise with numerous stalls selling delicious street food.

Taipei is a cultural hub with numerous theatres and performance venues. The National Theatre and Concert Hall host a variety of performances, including traditional Chinese opera, modern theatre, and international concerts.

Taipei’s cultural calendar is filled with festivals that celebrate traditional and contemporary culture. The Lantern Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, and the Taipei Film Festival are just a few examples of the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

For dining, a visit to Taipei is incomplete without trying Din Tai Fung’s famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). This Michelin-starred restaurant is renowned for its delicate dumplings and other Taiwanese delicacies. Taipei is a haven for street food lovers. Raohe Night Market and Ningxia Night Market are great places to start your culinary adventure. For a taste of traditional Taiwanese cuisine, visit local eateries and restaurants that serve the three-cup chicken and Taiwanese hot pot. These dishes offer a rich and flavourful experience of the island’s culinary heritage.

Taipei is surrounded by natural hot springs. Beitou Hot Spring is the most famous, offering a range of hot spring resorts and public baths to relax and soak in the therapeutic waters. For nature enthusiasts, Taipei offers numerous hiking trails with stunning views like the Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan and Yangmingshan National Park, offering beautiful landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.

Taipei has a rich tea culture, and a visit to a traditional tea house is a must. Maokong, located on the outskirts of the city, is famous for its tea plantations and offers scenic views along with a serene tea-drinking experience.

I left Taipei for the Lantern Festival, a journey into a world of mesmerizing light and cultural wonder. Held annually during the first full moon of the Lunar New Year, the festival transforms the night sky into a tapestry of glowing lanterns, each meticulously crafted and often adorned with intricate designs, carrying wishes and prayers for the coming year. Attending this festival was an unforgettable experience and I returned to Taipei with great memories.

Taipei is a city that captivates with its vibrant blend of old and new. Whether you’re exploring its historic temples, indulging in its diverse culinary scene, shopping in its bustling markets, or enjoying its natural beauty, Taipei promises a memorable and enriching travel experience.

A Blend of Elegance and Oceanic Charm: Discovering Biarritz

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Shereen Shabnam

Visiting Biarritz, a picturesque seaside town located on the southwestern coast of France has been a highlight in my career as a travel journalist. Known for its luxurious atmosphere, stunning beaches, and rich history, Biarritz has long been a favourite destination for travellers seeking a mix of relaxation and sophistication.

Biarritz is renowned for its breath-taking coastline and world-class surf spots as this was what I noticed first as I ventured to me hotel on the coast.  During my visit to Biarritz, I had the privilege of staying at the magnificent Hotel Du Palais. This iconic hotel, once a summer residence of Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, epitomizes luxury and elegance.

The Hotel Du Palais exudes historical grandeur with its Second Empire architectural style. Built in 1855, the hotel has retained its regal charm while offering modern amenities. Walking through its halls, one can feel the opulence of the bygone era, enhanced by antique furnishings and exquisite decor.

The rooms and suites at the Hotel Du Palais are a blend of classic elegance and contemporary comfort. My suite offered breath-taking views of the Atlantic Ocean, a spacious living area, and a luxurious bathroom. The attention to detail in the room’s design made my stay truly memorable.

The hotel’s dining options are nothing short of spectacular. The Michelin-starred restaurant, La Rotonde, serves gourmet French cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Breakfast at La Rotonde, with its panoramic ocean views, was a daily highlight. For a more casual dining experience, the hotel’s terrace restaurant offers a delightful selection of dishes in a relaxed setting.

In addition to that, Biarritz boasts a vibrant culinary scene. From traditional Basque cuisine to Michelin-starred restaurants, the town offers a variety of dining experiences. Don’t miss out on local specialties and fresh seafood. 

The Hotel Du Palais boasts a world-class spa, offering a range of treatments inspired by the healing properties of the ocean. I indulged in a rejuvenating thalassotherapy session, which left me feeling refreshed and revitalized. The hotel’s wellness facilities also include a fitness centre, indoor pool, and sauna.

Biarritz is indeed famous for many thalassotherapy centres, where visitors can indulge in therapeutic treatments using seawater and marine products. These treatments are perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The Grande Plage, the town’s main beach, is perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the Atlantic waves. For surfing enthusiasts, the Côte des Basques offers some of the best waves in Europe, attracting surfers from all over the world.

The town is dotted with historic landmarks. The Biarritz Lighthouse, standing tall since 1834, offers panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay. Another must-visit is the Rock of the Virgin (Rocher de la Vierge), a stunning rock formation with a statue of the Virgin Mary, accessible via a footbridge.

My hotel’s prime location made it easy to explore Biarritz. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll along the beach, a visit to nearby attractions, or a shopping spree in the town centre, everything is within easy reach. 

Biarritz, with its stunning beaches, rich history, and luxurious accommodations, is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience. Staying at the Hotel Du Palais added a touch of royal elegance to my journey, making it a perfect retreat for both relaxation and refinement. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a beach lover, Biarritz has something to offer everyone.

Exploring the Best of Bologna

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Shereen Shabnam

During a recent visit to Emilia-Romagna, we found some extra time in Bologna, a captivating city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and gastronomy and it brought back many memories of both recent and past visits to this vibrant part of Italy.

Bologna offers travelers a captivating mix of architectural marvels, vibrant markets, and mouthwatering culinary delights. We take you on a journey through what we feel are the best places to visit in Bologna.

Piazza Maggiore

Start your exploration of Bologna at Piazza Maggiore, the city’s main square and a bustling hub of activity. Admire the magnificent Basilica di San Petronio, one of the largest churches in the world, and marvel at the intricate architecture of the Palazzo dei Banchi and Palazzo d’Accursio. The square is also home to the iconic Fountain of Neptune, a symbol of Bologna’s artistic and cultural heritage.

The Towers of Bologna

Embark on a journey to the sky by climbing the Asinelli Tower, the tallest of Bologna’s iconic leaning towers. Enjoy panoramic views of the cityscape and surrounding hills, and learn about the intriguing history behind these medieval structures. For those seeking a less crowded experience, the Garisenda Tower offers an equally enchanting ascent.

Basilica di San Domenico

Step inside the Basilica di San Domenico and immerse yourself in a world of religious devotion and artistic grandeur. Admire the stunning works of art, including the tomb of Saint Dominic, adorned with masterful sculptures and precious marble. The peaceful ambiance of this sacred site offers a serene respite from the bustling city streets.

Archiginnasio of Bologna

Experience the rich academic heritage of Bologna at the Archiginnasio, once home to the prestigious university. Marvel at the intricately decorated anatomical theater and the historic library, filled with ancient manuscripts and scholarly treasures. This magnificent building is a testament to Bologna’s intellectual prowess throughout the centuries.

Mercato di Mezzo

No visit to Bologna is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Head to the Mercato di Mezzo, a vibrant food market filled with stalls offering fresh produce, regional delicacies, and traditional dishes. Sample local favorites like tortellini, mortadella, and tagliatelle al ragù, accompanied by a glass of local wine. Let your taste buds embark on a gastronomic journey through the flavors of Bologna.

Santo Stefano Basilica

Escape the bustling streets and find tranquility at the Santo Stefano Basilica, a complex of seven interlinked churches. Wander through the peaceful cloisters, admire the ancient architecture, and soak in the spiritual ambiance of this hidden gem. The courtyards and hidden corners offer a serene retreat for contemplation and relaxation.

Bologna’s rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience. From the grandeur of Piazza Maggiore to the flavors of Mercato di Mezzo and the serenity of Santo Stefano Basilica, this enchanting city offers a wealth of treasures to explore.

Immerse yourself in the charm of Bologna, and let its architectural wonders, cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine leave an indelible mark on your travel memories. We flew to Bologna with Turkish Airlines via Istanbul which allowed us to have a stopover holiday as well with seamless connections and ideal travel times.