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STAY > Hotel Aigua Blava, Costa Brava, Spain (15/20)
There is a fairly good chance you have never heard of Aigua Blava, that is because it is a secret. You are not supposed to tell anyone about the remarkable coastline,…
STAY > Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort, Noosa (15/20)
The Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort sits at the beating heart of Hastings Street—Noosa’s sun-drenched, see-and-be-seen boulevard. Step through the glass doors and you’re greeted by a gentle hum: the clink…
STAY > Hotel Villa Gala, Cadaqués (16/20)
Perched above the whitewashed labyrinth of Cadaqués, Hotel Villa Gala is a boutique retreat that captures the languid, sun-drenched spirit of the Costa Brava. With just 14 rooms, all boasting sweeping views of the Mediterranean and the town’s iconic church, Villa Gala feels less like a hotel and more like a private hideaway for those who appreciate both design and discretion.
AMBIENCE >
Villa Gala’s architecture is a love letter to the Mediterranean: crisp white walls, cobalt accents, and terraced gardens that tumble down towards the sea. The mood is relaxed but quietly glamorous, with interiors that blend modernist lines and local textures. The pool, set amid lush greenery, is a tranquil oasis with a cinematic view-perfect for a siesta or a sunset gin and tonic.
SLEEP >
Each room is a study in understated luxury: oak parquet floors, rainfall showers, and balconies or terraces that frame postcard-perfect vistas of Cadaqués and the bay. Even the smallest doubles feel generous, while the suites (especially the Suite Gala and the split-level Premium Suite) offer space for families or longer stays (that’s the one I love). Thoughtful touches include espresso machines and complimentary local wine. The plush robes make it easy to settle in and linger.
EAT >
Breakfast is a highlight, with a buffet that leans Mediterranean: ripe fruit, local cheeses, pastries, and eggs cooked to order (though, with only 14 rooms, the hot dishes can sometimes linger a little too long on the buffet). The in-house restaurant, La Villa, serves…
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DRINK > Old Palm Liquor, Brunswick East (15/20)
The northern end of East Brunswick's Lygon Street is now a busy bar and dining district. It is an area…
DRINK > Bar Morna, Milano Italy (15/20)
We stumbled into Bar Morna after a long drive from the Dolomites back to Milan and a fairly long walk…
STAY > Snowlake Apartments, Alleghe Italy (15/20)
When you tell people you are going to ski in Alleghe, the likely first comments are “where?” And the next…
SKI > RESORTS
When you tell people you are going to ski in Alleghe, the likely first comments are “where?” And the next comment if they do recognise the name is oh, yes AL - LEG - HEY. It seems a place where pronunciation of the name is a little complex, it is a…
Arpuria makes a key point of not being in the middle of St Anton. It is not above a disco or party bar. It is not even at the bottom of a ski run. Rather it is a couple of streets away from the crowds and slightly…
MENU Getting There > Where To Stay > Where To Eat > Where To Drink > Where To Ski >
Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Alpe d'Huez is a ski resort that offers an unparalleled experience for winter sports enthusiasts. Known for its extensive ski terrain,…
MENU Getting There > Where To Stay > Where To Eat > Where To Drink > Where To Ski >
Nestled in the heart of British Columbia, Revelstoke Ski Resort is a winter paradise that offers more than just world-class skiing. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse activities, and vibrant…
EAT >Where to Eat & Restaurant Reviews
STAY >
DRINK > BARS
DRINK > Old Palm Liquor, Brunswick East (15/20)
The northern end of East Brunswick's Lygon Street is now a busy bar and dining district. It is an area where you can stumble left or right into a smart bar that serves good food. Old Palm Liquor is one of these places that is full from the front…
DRINK > Mid Air, Melbourne (15/20)
Early Autumn is my favourite time in Melbourne, it is when the warm days end with warm evening that cool down to fresh mornings. It is a time when there are so many things to do all complemented by amenable weather. Grand Prix, Comedy Festival, Food & Wine Festival, Fashion Festival its…
DRINK > Bar Morna, Milano Italy (15/20)
We stumbled into Bar Morna after a long drive from the Dolomites back to Milan and a fairly long walk from the car hire return (at the Duomo) back towards our hotel Magna Pars in the vibrant Via Tortona area of Milan.
The hosts immediately welcomed us in encouraged…
DRINK > Grünbeck, St Anton AM (15/20)
Finding a place that is really comfortable to pop in for a coffee, a beer, a snack or a meal. That is the sign of the local you want to visit.
Another good sign is when the patrons start talking and sharing stories. Grünbeck has both and plenty…
DRINK > Bobbie Peels, North Melbourne (15/20)
North Melbourne has more than its fare share of great pubs and the 'Bobbie Peels' is one of those that absolutely crackles. Nestled on the corner of Queensberry and Peel Streets in North Melbourne, Bobbie Peels stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant pub culture. This charming establishment seamlessly…
DRINK > Isadora Cocktail Bar, Paris (16/20)
On a quiet street in the vibrant Les Halles neighbourhood, Isadora Cocktail Bar is a sophisticated oasis that transports patrons to the glamorous era of 1920s Paris. This hidden gem offers a perfect blend of artisanal mixology, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service.
AMBIANCE >
Upon entering Isadora, guests are…
DRINK > WINEWine & Spirit Reviews
WINE > La Maison Romane, Hautes-Côtes de Nuits 2018(91/100 points)
La Maison Romane's 2018 Hautes-Côtes de Nuits is a captivating expression of Pinot Noir that showcases the unique winemaking philosophy of founder Oronce de Beler. This biodynamic wine offers a delightful balance of elegance and rustic charm.
APPEARANCE & AROMA >
Medium ruby color with good clarity. Vibrant…
WINE > Hoddles Creek 1er, Yarra Valley Pinot Noir (95/100 points)
Hoddles Creek Estate has once again demonstrated their mastery of cool-climate winemaking with their 1er Yarra Valley Pinot Noir. This exceptional wine showcases the unique terroir of the Upper Yarra Valley and the skillful craftsmanship of winemaker Franco D’Anna and the Hoddles Creek team.
Appearance and Aroma > …
