Travel
Originally published on Thursday, 22nd October 2015
TRAVEL SUPPLEMENT AUTUMN
The seasons have changed, so we’re looking at our Autumn/Winter options. From opulent retreats and eco-friendly boltholes to beach houses, English cottages and even robot hotels… the possibilities are endless. Party wise, we’re heading to Paris and for those planning trips to NY, we’ve test-driven a new business-only airline and rested our heads at the new EDITION. Happy travels!
LONG HAUL: TOKYO
There are many reasons to go to Japan, but right now, we're long hauling it for its robot hotel. A first of its kind, the newly opened budget Henn-na Hotel in Nagasaki Prefecture is a well-oiled machine – think fembots and fierce dinosaurs at check-in, automatic trolleys as bell boys, facial recognition technology instead of standard electronic room keys and a cloak room manned by one giant mechanical arm… welcome to the future.
ECO LUXE: BRAZIL
Or, for total change of pace, head to the eco-conscious Uxua Casa Hotel & Spa in Trancoso on Brazil's Bahia coast. The old fishing village turned bourgeois beach escape may have all the trappings of a well-heeled recharge – a rustic beach lounge, an organic spa and a private beach – but here, the 11 colourful detached ‘casas’ (from tree houses to open plan houses), built from restored fisherman's huts are dotted around the UNESCO-protected town square, meaning no lobbies, no staff uniforms, no celebrity chefs. It’s back-to-basics. Well, kind of.
TRAVEL FILE: LA COMPAGNIE
A boutique, business class-only airline for those travelling from Paris or London to New York. And with fares starting from £1700 for two return flights - the time has never been better to go. Click here to read all about it.
PARTY: PARIS
Paris, the Red Bull Music Academy is coming for you. Touching down on October 25, the French capital is set for a shake up via lectures, art exhibitions, workshops and, of course, music. As for our schedule, we’ll be crossing the channel for the Pitchfork Paris Club night with Hudson Mohawke and Laurent Garnier and a blast of the Parisian voguing scene at Folie’s Pigalle, hosted by Lasseindra (the queen of French vogue), featuring Ballroom Beatz creator Vjuan Allure. Make sure to book tickets and watch the twitter feeds for surprise gigs.
SUNSHINE: TEL AVIV
If you’re looking for a hit of sunshine, try Tel Aviv. Apart from averaging 27 degrees in November, we’re packing our bags for its newly opened Brown Beach House, a break from the block of chain hotels which dominate the coast. The boutique bolthole – designed as a luxury summer house – has the feel of its sister hotel, Brown Hotel Tel Aviv, with spacious rooms (some with private sun terraces) and a buzzy bar, but here, it's Miami glam with a faded 70s twist – dark wood, faded formica tones and a flamingo bar.
ENGLISH SEASIDE RETREAT: ISLES OF SCILLY
Dreamland in Margate, whispers of an upcoming Soho House in Brighton… it’s clear, the English seaside is having a moment. So with that in mind, we’re turning our attention to the Isles of Scilly. Base yourself at the newly opened Karma St Martin's, and take in its 2.8 acres, which overlook the rugged coastline. The oceanfront cluster of cottages boasts sea views from each of the 25 rooms, an indoor swimming pool and a slow food restaurant. From here it’s easy access to the other islands, thanks to the hotel’s private jetty.
LUXE EUROPEAN ESCAPE: LISBON
For an opulent mini-break, check into the newly opened Palácio Belmonte in Lisbon. The former 13th century palace has retained its textured history with restored 17th century Portuguese tiles used throughout, original facades and striking Roman ceilings. There are 11 suites to choose from, each with its own background and history, but we suggest picking one with its own terrace overlooking the city or Tagus river. There’s a black marble swimming pool, ballrooms for private parties and an opulent ancient dining room decorated with hand painted tiles dating from the first quarter of the 18th century.
