By Cheryl Caira
New edition
WeHo is gearing up for one of its most exciting hotel openings of the year, with the famed Sunset Boulevard getting its first EDITION in summer 2019 (image above). Although part of a collection, the luxury hotels always reflect the unique character of their locale. The West Hollywood EDITION has breathtaking views over LA, 190 rooms and suites, a spa, basement club and Cali-style signature restaurant. editionhotels.com/weho
Sun on ice
If you prefer to head abroad for your festival kicks, then we’ll give you our hot-but-chilled tip for the summer. Secret Solstice in Reykjavik – held during 72 hours of non-stop sunlight – has announced its phase two line-up, featuring Black Eyed Peas, the Sugarhill Gang, Patti Smith and Icelandic bands, Sólstafir, Vök and Hatari. They’ll join previously announced acts that include Robert Plant, Rita Ora, Morcheeba and Pussy Riot. 21st – 23rd June, secretsolstice.is
Snap happy
Ever fancied yourself as a photographer of the sea? Soufrière sister resorts Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet have launched underwater photography courses (running from 10th – 17th August) at Scuba St Lucia. You’ll learn the underwater snapping basics, including composition, ambient light use and animal portraits, with dives around the house reef, which is home to more than 150 different species of fish. Starts from £2,406 per person and includes the course, seven nights of accommodation at Anse Chastanet, airport transfers, all meals & twelve beach or boat dives inclusive of tank, weights, belt, mask, snorkel and fins. ansechastanet.com
Eco-wonders
There’s a new ecotourism project launching in Australia’s Great Ocean Road region, called Wildlife Wonders. Visitors will be taken on a guided walk through bushland outside Apollo Bay, at the foothills of the picturesque Otways, where you can see kangaroos, dozing koalas, foraging potoroos and bandicoots. All profits will be invested in conservation projects that ensure the wildlife and ecosystems of the Great Ocean Road area remain healthy. conservationecologycentre.org
Purrfect goodbye
Dukes London have created a cocktail inspired by the late Karl Lagerfeld’s cherished cat. The ‘White Choupette’ is a mix of vodka, white crème de cacao liqueur and cream, served in a martini glass at DUKES Bar’s little sister, GBR. gbrrestaurantslondon.com
Star destination
Mirihi Island Resort in the Maldives is encouraging you to be at one with your zodiac sign by offering four astrology-based experiences, tailored around Earth, Water, Fire and Air. Pairing activities include a whale shark safari, local island trips, Maldivian cooking classes and a sunset dolphin cruise. Package prices vary, starting from £3,573 for two people for seven nights in a Water Villa on a half board basis, including seaplane transfers. mirihi.com
Taste of Italia
Credit: Selena Ellener
Le Cesarine is Italy’s oldest network of home cooks, but our new favourite discovery. You can eat like a local and learn how to rustle up traditional family dishes in the homes of 600 expert cooks – known as ‘cesarinas’ – spanning 90 destinations throughout Italy, including cities, ancient villages and seaside resorts. cesarine.it
Go east
If you’re planning on travelling to the Eastern Seaboard this year, you’re in luck: American Airlines are launching a daily flight from Edinburgh to Philadelphia from 2nd April to 26th October, while from 23rd May, Delta will be launching a new, non-stop route from Edinburgh to Boston.
