It seems every family has one, that impossibly hard person to buy for that either has everything or wants for nothing. We scratch our heads and scour the internet in search of that special something but always somehow end up falling short. So, to save you the trouble this year, we’ve rounded up a delightfully unique selection of gift ideas for Christmas, birthday’s and beyond, that are guaranteed to go down a treat…
AMI Archive
Preserve the treasured photo memories of a loved one with a little help from AMI Archive. Following the journey of discovery, AMI will bring your family’s photographic archive to life through meticulous preservation, digitalisation and curation techniques that guarantee the enduring legacy of your cherished memories in a bespoke, handmade photo book.
AMI’s artisan bookbinders will gather and stitch the pages together by hand, followed by the handcrafted creation of each cover and slipcase using foil blocking techniques to produce a true labour of love.
Give a gift that’s good for animals, people and planet. The Kind Box is an ethical gift box filled with unique and hand-picked products that have been tried and tested in-house. For an extra special touch, you can build a custom gift box using the bespoke build a box platform, choosing from hundreds of vegan, sustainable and cruelty-free beauty products. Each beautiful box is then wrapped with eco-friendly tissue paper, zig zag offcut paper from a UK paper mill and tied with an organic cotton ribbon.
Call on Kensington Parker for a piece of bespoke, made to order diamond jewellery; a gift that even the person that has everything would be hard-pressed to resist! As a private jeweller, Kensington Parker are not refined to the constrictions of a traditional high street jeweller. From a home appointment in the evening, to a visit at your office to overlook a handpicked selection of diamonds, this is the kind of service that makes Kensington Parker a private jeweller for the client.
Treat that special someone in your life to a bottle of one of the world’s most expensive and exquisite cognacs. Rome de Bellegarde has garnered a reputation for the highest standard of excellence, specialising in a limited edition collection of modern Premium Crus harmoniously blended with rare-aged Eaux de vie.
BBB recommend a bottle of the XO Limited Edition. Characterised by its full and powerful fruity notes and extravagant spices, the XO distils the essence of Rome de Bellegarde’s iconic heritage while bringing to the fore a modern freshness of flavour, imbued with lingering hints of sweet vanilla.
What could be more special than gifting someone with their very own genealogical family portrait? A company like no other, Genealogica is the world’s best family history research and story-telling team. With proven expertise in unearthing unique and barely traceable documents, photographs and heirlooms, Genealogica bring the people and places of each family’s extraordinary odyssey to life, telling the story of their unique journey through the generations.
Genealogica will then design and deliver the family legacy in any way clients desire, from bespoke ancestral encyclopedias to physical journeys into the past.
Give the gift of a Belmont gift card for something to look forward to when the time is right. The beauty of this particular gift card is that it can be redeemed for a range of experiences including a delightful afternoon tea, a relaxing massage a fascinating masterclass or towards the trip of a lifetime! From restaurants and hotels to trains, boats and safaris, nobody does luxury adventures quite like Belmond.
When it comes to Christmas gifting, food and wine will never go out of style. It’s the universal gift that oozes Christmas spirit and is guaranteed to put a smile on the face of that special someone. Therefore, all that’s left to do is order in time for the big day and that’s where we come in. As our gift to you this season we’ve rounded up a classic selection of hampers and champers including all important order deadlines for a stress-free Christmas shopping experience…
Harrods
Allow Harrods to take the hard work out of gift giving this season with one of their delectable festive hampers. Filled to the brim with sweet treats, preserves and a bottle of their finest Champagne, the Knightsbridge Christmas Hamper is a failsafe festive feast just waiting to be shared. Or delight the little people in your life with the Winnie-The-Pooh Once There Was a Bear Hamper, a suitably sweet celebration of Britain’s best loved bear, complete with delicious gingerbread, hot chocolate and an iconic Edward teddy.
Order deadline: UK: 21ST December, international: 15th December, US & Hong Kong: 17th December. Plus, free UK delivery on orders of £100 or more.
The BIB Wine Company
Featured as ‘the first ever luxury Bag-in-Box wine’ by Adrian Smith of the Independent, the BIB Wine Company has put Bag-in-Box wine on the map for all the right reasons. BIB are changing the face of quality wine in the UK, creating a sustainable future for the wine landscape, one recyclable box at a time. For the festive season we recommend their Château Couronneau ‘Cuvée Clair de Lune’ Bordeaux, a full-bodied, spicy merlot that pairs perfectly with roasted meats and cheese. Or opt for the Taster Box, complete with a recorded online tasting session as the perfect stocking filler. Bring people together this Christmas with BIB wines – a true tonic for the soul and a treat for the tastebuds.
Order deadline: UK: 23rd December (midday)
Fortnum & Mason
For the holy grail in hampers, it must be an iconic handwoven wicker delight from Fortnum & Mason. Head to their website and lift the lid on an unrivalled festive array of hampers to suit, well quite frankly, any Christmas occasion. The vegan-friendly, Yuletide Hamper, offers a delicious selection of luxurious free-from delights while the extravagant Christmas Feast Hamper is enough to keep a family full well into the new year!
Order deadline: UK: pre-order and choose a delivery slot up until 23rd December. F&M hampers sell out fast, so our advice is to get your order in asap to avoid disappointment!
Bespoke Wine Collection
As the name suggests, a gift from the Bespoke Wine Collection is a far cry from your generic bottle of vino. Give the ‘Perfect Gift of Experience’ this season with their beautifully presented, hand-picked selection of 3 fine wines. Each bespoke case of three includes a wine passport featuring the history of each estate, tasting notes, gastronomic pairing, serving suggestions and potential for further ageing. There’s also the option to tailor your case by specific wine, favourite region or to even celebrate a particular vintage year of significance. From treasured friends to trusted clients it’s the ultimate curated gift that’s guaranteed to impress.
Order deadline: UK: 10th December, international: 6th December
Selfridges
If a more personal touch is what you’re seeking this Christmas contact Selfridges where the team will be more than happy to build a unique hamper or gift box from their range of delectable gastronomic delights, complete with a personalised gift message. Choose from the finest yuletide festive favourites including Christmas spiced orange hot chocolate, indulgent cheese selections and a host of celebratory tipples.
Order deadline: UK: dependent on stock availability. Stock is reserved once payment has been made. Sell through is fast this year so order sooner rather than later.
The Magnum Company
Nothing says Christmas quite like a celebratory magnum shared with loved ones and no one does it quite like The Magnum Company. Firmly believing that quality and quantity should not be mutually exclusive concepts, The Magnum Company seeks to ensure that wine enthusiasts enjoy the latest and greatest the market has to offer on an extravagant scale! Champagne will always be first to mind with the mention of a magnum, but The Magnum Company offers so much more with Crémant, Port, Sherry, Rosé and Red all available in the impressive 1.5L offering.
October marks Black History Month in the UK, dedicated to celebrating and supporting the heritage, culture and history of Black people. And whilst learning about Black history is of course something that shouldn’t be reserved for just one month a year, Black History Month is a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on a host of incredible events, authors and brands representing Black culture in the UK.
Penned by the phenomenal creator and star of I May Destroy You and Chewing Gum, Misfits is a deeply passionate and powerfully articulate manifesto inspired by her acclaimed Edinburgh Festival lecture. Coel’s poetic amalgamation of insight and wit invites readers to reflect on their own place in society through her striking personal revelations about race, gender and class.
Written by award-winning historian and broadcaster David Olusoga, Black & British offers a frank and definitive account of the extraordinarily long and painstakingly overlooked relationship between the British Isles and the people of Africa. Recently republished featuring a new chapter encompassing the Windrush scandal and the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020, Black & British is a groundbreaking piece of educational literature that should be read by all.
In Loud Black Girls, authors of Slay in Your Lane, Elizabeth Uviebinené and Yomi Adegoke, invite the next generation of Black female authors, journalists, actors, activists and artists to explore what it means to be a Black woman in the UK today. From celebrating activism in local communities to teaching the next generation of young Black women to own their voices, Loud Black Girls is a poignant education in how to exist as your authentic self.
Founded in 2016, Maya Njie is a niche perfume brand with a clear focus on high-quality artisanal blends with scents that are deeply rooted in Founder Maya’s Swedish and West African culture. Inspired by an old family photo album, Maya set out to capture, by way of scent, those tropes of familial life. The tones are of a time and the accords nostalgic, yet the end products are notably contemporary.
As a Partner within the BBB Boutique, Maya Njie is offering BBB Club Members a 10% discount across the range.
As the name suggests, Naked Clay Ceramics celebrates clay in its pure form. Inspired by the natural colours and textures of the earth, Founder, Carla Sealey creates beautiful, minimal style tableware and homeware by hand from her studio in Bedfordshire. Each unique piece is fired with no glaze on the outside so that the feel of the natural, fired clay can be appreciated. Carla’s hope is that this tactile connection brings an opportunity to pause, breathe and savour a small moment in the hustle and bustle of busy life.
Oré mi is an independent wellbeing brand founded in 2019 creating handmade, vegan and cruelty-free home fragrances with luxurious, lasting scents. Oré mi – an expression which means my friend in Yorùbá – was founded by Karen Olla in 2019. The brand melds Karen’s Nigerian heritage with her upbringing in London, in a collection of restorative scents which draw upon her life experience. Most importantly of all, the brand was born out of Karen’s desire to break the taboo which surrounds the topic of mental health in the Black community and to support and celebrate African lifestyle products.
BBB Members can find Oré mi within the BBB Boutique and receive 20% off their purchase.
Cassa Pancho’s Ballet Black is a professional ballet company that celebrates dancers of Black and Asian descent, making a fundamental change in the diversity of classical ballet in Britain. With various performances happening throughout the UK during October and beyond, expect sensational solos, seductive duos and fiercely dynamic pieces performed seamlessly by the Ballet Black Company.
Take a trip to Brixton to visit the Black Cultural Archives, the only national heritage centre dedicated to collecting, preserving and celebrating the histories of African and Caribbean people in Britain. Described by actor, writer and broadcaster, Kwame Kwei-Armah as “a goldmine of information about Black cultural identity in Britain”, the Black Cultural Archives differ from conventional, traditional archives as it remains rooted in the community that created it.
Soho Theatre and Hannah Layton Management have joined forces to showcase an unforgettable night of live comedy to celebrate Black History Month. Join Thanyia Moore (Funny Women Winner 2018) and Aurie Styla (BBC Radio London) on Wednesday 27th October for a one-night-only comedy special downstairs at the Soho Theatre featuring a lineup not to be missed.
Sophie Williams is an incredible woman with many strings to her bow – author of two books, anti-racist ally, Founder of @officialmillennialblack, racial equity consultant and Manager of Production Planning at Netflix. In her own words, Sophie loves thinking and talking about intersectional identities (especially race and gender) and how they shape our experiences in the world.
Kingslee James McLean Daley, better known as Akala, is a MOBO and BAFTA award-winning rapper, journalist, author, activist and poet who uses his platform to educate and raise awareness. Featured on the annual Powerlist of the 100 most influential Black British people in the UK, Akala utilises a range of creative platforms to speak out about race in the UK.
Phyllis Akua Opoku-Gyimah, also known as Lady Phyll is a pioneer for increased visibility and advocacy for Queer, Trans and Intersex People of Colour in the UK and beyond. As Co-Founder and Director of Black Pride, Lady Phyll works tirelessly for the spiritual, emotional and intellectual health and wellbeing of the LGBTQ people of African, Asian, Caribbean, Middle Eastern and Latin American descent. Because “when we rise together, we are mighty”.
Whilst it’s most certainly a major step up from Christmas 2020, it’s safe to say that we’re all still treading cautiously when it comes to the thought of festive celebrations this year. As most of us slowly return to the office, navigating staggered office hours and new routines, it’s clear that we still have a long way to go until we’re back to what we once called ‘normal’.
But on a lighter note, with smaller celebrations now safely allowed, we’ve rounded up a host of enviable London locations suitable for a more bijou affair. And while it’s sadly a far cry from the extravagant office parties that once were, you’re guaranteed a great night out with your nearest and dearest cohorts at one of these stylish London hotspots. From private dining rooms and member’s clubs to all manner of alternative activities, there’s a space to suit every taste…
The newly opened Sessions Arts Club is an urban sanctuary that sits in the old judges’ dining room at Sessions House, a Grade II listed building in Clerkenwell. Built on a studio ethos, The Sessions Arts Club has its finger on the pulse of the contemporary culture, effortlessly combining arts, culture and the finest gastronomy.
For the perfect blend of fine dining and East London charm, we recommend Bistrotheque. Opt for the Cockatoo, a contemporary converted warehouse space that seats up to 60 guests for a delicious three-course feast. What’s more, groups are also free to make use of the space’s electric piano for some memorable after-dinner entertainment!
If cocktails are the order of the evening why not try making your own at TT Liquor. Be taught by their in-house mixologists to make (then drink) a selection of four different cocktails at one of their fully interactive cocktail-making classes. The Shoreditch establishment also offers dining options and a vintage 52-seater private cinema space.
If Modern European fare and a Michelin star sound appealing, then head straight to Hide. The Hide & Seek rooms on the first floor offer a combined private dining experience for up to 20 guests to enjoy the finest seasonal ingredients and the largest wine list in Europe.
Head beyond the great edifice of historic member’s club Quo Vadis to The Marx Room. Affectionately named after former resident Karl Marx, the elegant and airy space seats up to 24 guests to enjoy the seasonal British delicacies of head chef Jeremy Lee and his team.
Quietly tucked away on the lower ground floor you’ll find Gymkhana’s exquisite private vault. Seating up to 10 guests in an intimate banquette style, the space is perfect for smaller team gatherings and also offers the option to create a bespoke menu and wine pairings.
Who’s up for a spot of virtual clay pigeon shooting? Yes, you heard us right! Clays Bar are inviting you to take a shot at a new experience as you compete against colleagues on their high-resolution screens. Shooting sessions last 90 minutes and a booth can accommodate up to 20 people. Clays Bar doesn’t officially open until November 1st, but we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.
AllBright by name and all bright by nature, the Mayfair female member’s club private dining space is bright, airy and refreshingly modern. The first-floor space can cater for up to 27 guests across two adjoining rooms. AllBright also offers a completely bespoke experience working alongside their events team to create a tailor-made package just for you.
Soho restaurant Gauthier is redefining French gastronomy as plant-based, creating environmentally conscious, progressive cuisine of the future with some phenomenal private dining spaces to boot! For a fun-filled evening of up to 18 guests, we recommend the Games Room, including an old 1950s arcade machine and a selection of vintage prints and pictures.
Celebrate the season whilst donating to a great cause by choosing The House of St. Barnabas. On a mission to break the cycle of homelessness, the member’s club funds the Employment Academy through membership, private hire and hospitality profit. If a sit-down dinner isn’t quite your style, choose The Monro Room. Emulating a traditional smoking lounge, this cosy corner of the club can comfortably accommodate 45 standing guests.
Swap dinner for the silver screen at the Bvlgari Hotel Cinema. The luxurious private cinema offers the most advanced cinema-quality HD sound and vision, including 4K resolution in 2D or the latest Dolby 3D. Choose from the hotel’s curated library of 300 new and classic titles, watch live sports events or even play video games!
With travel restrictions easing, there’s no better time to talk about family getaways. Here at BBB, we believe that education can come in many shapes and forms and one that makes us particularly excited is travel. A world of magical experiences far away from the classroom that can enrich young people’s minds and bring families closer together.
So, in that vein, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most sought-after educational adventures provided by two of our incredible travel partners plus some handy resources to ensure your trip of a lifetime is smooth sailing all the way…
Big Wide World
If you’re searching for an out of the ordinary adventure for your family look no further than Big Wide World. As seasoned professionals in creating timeless moments and memories, Big Wide World will help even the most experienced traveller see the world anew. Big Wide World also put heavy emphasis on conversation and giving back, weaving it into each of their unique experiences.
Origin of Species
The Galapagos Islands, arguably the world’s greatest outdoor classroom and the first up on our list. From shark tagging in unspoilt oceans and getting involved in front-line conservation work to walking the lands that inspired Darwin, ignite a love for nature that will never die. The Galapagos Marine Reserve is home to the highest concentration of sharks in the world and it’s the islands’ incredible shark life that forms the centrepiece of a travel experience as moving as it is educational!
Astronaut Training
Yes, you read that right! Experience Star City, where you will train as astronauts do when they prepare for the exploration of space. This is no theme park; this is a real-life training station for astronauts readying to embark on a voyage to the international space station orbiting the earth. You will be joined throughout your training by a former Commander of the ISS for a travel experience like no other.
Igloo Building in the Arctic
Experience Igloo building in the Arctic, the most forbidding region on earth. Immerse yourself by living like the Sami tribe of the Lands of the North. Get closer to the real arctic as you follow in the footsteps of polar explorers from a bygone era. Learn the art of igloo building, go cross country skiing, or perhaps, most thrilling, enjoy the adrenaline rush of a RIB boat ride past a glacier! Big Wide World also offers guests the opportunity to get involved in vital local research projects and ocean clean-ups to ensure your artic experience is extra worthwhile.
For bookings and any other information, please email Nicola at Big Wide World.
Coral Tree Travel
Coral Tree understands that not all classrooms have walls and pride themselves on curating educational African safaris that will impress the entire family. Founded by parents and Africa experts, Tess and Mike Kelly, Coral Tree provides a bespoke service tailored to the needs of each individual family.
Giraffe Manor
When people think safari they think Giraffe Manor, which is why it’s top of our Coral Tree list. A magical place where giraffes visit for breakfast, a stay at Giraffe Manor is a one-of-a-kind experience unrivalled anywhere in the world. The grand stately old home is full of character and families will marvel at how close and personal the experience is. What’s more, the manor also supports the endangered Rothschild giraffe, making it the perfect place for children to learn about wildlife conservation.
Sarara Camp
Situated within the 850,000 acres of pristine wilderness that make up the Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy, Sarara Camp is a very special place indeed. For families looking for a truly unique experience, Sarara is a place of wonder. Its blend of experiential tourism and conservation focus make it an undisputed forerunner in the world of sustainable tourism. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in Samburu culture, visit Kenya’s first community-run elephant sanctuary and head out on horseback with local Samburu guides.
Lewa Wilderness
One of Kenya’s most beautiful and well-established lodges, Lewa Wilderness, established in 1972 and set in the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, is still the family home of the Craigs, who live in a part of the main house where guests are also welcome. Perfect for families with teenagers, activities at Lewa include tennis courts, riding stables and of course the most phenomenal game viewing spot. The lodge also has a retro yellow biplane, used for scenic flights over the plains!
Coral Tree understands that now more than ever it’s important to book with a company you can trust. Read details of their book with confidence promise.
For bookings and any other information, please email Mike at Coral Tree Travel.
Travel Resources
Travelling Tutors from MinervaGlobal
For over 8 years, Minerva Global has provided a growing international client base with world-class private tutoring, homeschooling and family concierge services. Tutors can be placed anywhere in the world on short or long term assignments. Families who are travelling from country to country or holidaying can hire a tutor to join them (either in person or online) to catch their children up on any lost learning due to coronavirus, ensuring they’re well prepared for school, even if they’re halfway across the world. Minerva has particular expertise in operating in sensitive geographical regions and handling complex personal situations, with client confidentiality always guaranteed.
Additional private staff such as close protection officers, maternity nurses and yacht charters can be sourced through their unique family concierge group. Comprehensive remote support covering all time zones is provided from their London HQ. Tutors are UK education-system qualified and are ready to travel at a moment’s notice.
For all travelling tutor inquiries, please email Laura at Minerva.
Travelling Nannies from SORTED
BBB’s sister company SORTED recruitment are also a great option if extra staff requirements are needed for your ultimate family getaway. SORTED understand the importance of privacy and can work quickly and efficiently to source travelling nannies/mannies and private chefs for your vacation. Unique requirements are welcomed by SORTED who can guarantee a quick turnaround providing the exact person for the role, including specific languages and local knowledge.
For all travelling nanny inquiries, please email Nicola at SORTED.
Fit to Fly PCR Tests from Pyser
Are you and your family fit to fly? As we continue to navigate life during the pandemic, most countries have implemented travel restrictions to ensure the safety of their citizens and to stop the spread of the virus. Allow Pyserto take the stress of the situation away with their Covid-19 Fit to Fly PCR test. Simply visit a Pyser clinic or book a home visit, take the pre-flight test and travel within 72 hours. Pyser tests are over 99% accurate in detecting the RNA from coronavirus and are conducted by a CQC certified company and laboratory, adhering to Public Health England guidelines.
For all PCR Test inquiries, please email Richard at Pyser.
January is a time where health is at the forefront of our minds, combining New Year’s Resolutions with efforts perhaps to eat better and drink less. For those who completed Dry January, we salute you! Some people are admirably keeping it going into February and perhaps even beyond, but for those eager to get back on the bottle, we have just the thing for you.
As the frustration of no globetrotting becomes ever more acute, we have combined our passion for travel and adventure with our love of a good tipple to bring you here some of the most delicious and interesting signature cocktails from our friends and Partners around the world…. Bottoms up!
When Giuliano and his team reintroduced The Martinez to the cocktail list at The Bar, the recipe required a special Old Tom Gin which had become something of a rarity and therefore retaining a cult following among ‘cocktail cognoscenti’. The Martinez remains one of the most popular drinks served in The Bar.
About the cocktail, Giuliano says: “A very special classic cocktail, The Martinez is believed to be the forefather of both the Manhattan and the martini. The cocktail is made using Old Tom Gin, which The Dorchester recreated with our own branded gin. The botanicals included in the gin, which is exclusive to The Dorchester, include juniper, coriander, angelica root, orris root, cassia bark, cardamom, fresh lemon and orange peel.”
The Martinez Serves One drink
Ingredients 30 ml. The Dorchester Old Tom 40 ml. Punt e Mes 10 ml. Maraschino Luxardo Dash of Bokers bitter
Garnish Orange Peel
Method The first step to creating The Martinez is to chill a martini glass, so when I pour the cocktail it won’t get a thermal shock. Our secret to perfecting the recipe is using our own Old Tom Gin, which is distilled by Wessex Distillery, and bitters created especially for The Dorchester. I fill a cocktail shaker with ice and pour in the gin and sweet vermouth, keeping in mind the gin will need to be three times the amount of the vermouth. Add a dash of maraschino liquor and the bitters, followed by a good shake. Remove the ice from the glass, strain and pour from the shaker. Cut a very thin orange zest and squeeze so the oils drip into the drink and if you wish you can rub along the rim of the glass. Then it is ready to enjoy.
The Dorchester Old Tom Gin is still being distilled and can be bought at the hotel or on the hotel website.
Walter has been at Belmond Hotel Cipriani since 1989. Over the years he has served the Hollywood greats – Liz Taylor, Ronald Reagan, Tom Cruise and George Clooney; who has two cocktails created for him and named by him. From a young age he welcomed guests in his home in Noale near Venice with homemade infusions with herbs and berries from the woods nearby, he has continued pursuing his passion at Belmond Hotel Cipriani where he enriches cocktails with spices and herbs from the Casanova Gardens. The hotel’s signature cocktail and one of the best-loved in the world, the Bellini, was created by Harry Cipriani a few years before he welcomed the first guests in 1958. The sparkling drink’s rich peach colour is captured throughout the hotel’s interior design.
The Original Bellini
INGREDIENTS • 1/3 fresh white peach juice (fresh if possible!) • 2/3 Prosecco (it simply has to be Italian sparkling wine)
METHOD • Peel and slice 1kg of white peaches. Dip them in 500 gr. of water and 200 gr. of fresh lemon juice (the peaches must be covered with water and lemon). • Pass the peaches (with lemon juice and water) in a blender with crushed ice and 2 spoons of sugar. • When in the beginning or end of the peach season, add little juice of raspberries or cherries so as to make it distinctly pink in color. • When in full season this is not necessary, as peaches give their own color. • Please note that the Prosecco and the juice must be very cold before mixing them. • Do not mix the Bellini until the very last moment – right before serving, otherwise, it will separate.
When the heart years for Phuket, we head to the idyllic Amanpuri with Peerayoth Rattanathitibovorn, Bar Manager at The Lounge.
Located on the shores of the Andaman Sea, this beautiful and luxurious beach resort is simply stunning. Sitting in an entire private coconut grove filled peninsula, of course we had to choose this cocktail! The coconuts used in the preparation of Coconut Negroni cocktail at The Lounge are sourced from Amanpuri’s own coconut trees. Born and raised in Bangkok, Peerayoth started his journey into mixologist culture in 2015. Not long afterwards, Peerayoth won the title of Diageo World Class Bartender of Southern Thailand 2016.
Method: Stir all the ingredients except coconut oil over cubed ice for 60 seconds, then strain into chilled rock glass with prepared block ice, drop coconut into surface of the cocktail, garnish with dehydrated lemon wheel.
Moving west to a different kind of tropical shores… Eden Rock St Barths with Matthias ASO – 1st Barman at the Rémy Bar
Chili Chili Bang Bang is an exotic version of the margarita, with a little bit of chilli to bring a kick to the cocktail served in a fun tiki! It has been a signature drink for almost a decade at the Rémy Bar Eden Roc St- Barths and is always popular with visitors!
Chili Chili Bang Bang
50ml Casamigos blanco infused with jalapeños 30ml Passoa 30ml pineapple juice 25ml lime juice 15ml sugarcane syrup
Shaken 10 seconds then pour in a tiki mug.Crushed ice on top with 1 straw. Garnish with 1 dry lime, 1 dry pineapple slice and 1 dry orange slice
And for those still wanting a healthy aspect to their indulgences, who else to ask but the Equinox in NYC
Created for those who rest and play as hard as they work, Equinox hotels have an ethos of holistic wellbeing, offering guests a space to restore and regenerate. So it makes sense, that they would have the perfect cocktail with a healthful component…
The ‘Bucks Bunny’ from Electric Lemon Restaurant and Terrace
0.75 fl oz Ginger Juice 0.5 fl oz Lime Juice 2 fl oz Carrot Juice 2 fl oz Armagnac 2 fl oz Soda Water 0.25g Dried Candied Ginger 0.1g Chervil Carrot ribbon for garnish 0.75g Ginger Syrup (1:1 ginger juice simple syrup)
Mix all Garnish with the carrot ribbon and chervil
Pretty much ‘The’ place to stay in St Petersburg, the Grand Hotel Europe dazzles with vintage glamour and the Lobby Bar is no exception. Live jazz and blues music dances among the hubbub of stories shared and secrets spilled at this iconic drinking spot. Gaze around at the stucco cornices, green-tiled fireplaces, marble floors and bronze statues and you’ll soon appreciate why this elegant Art Nouveau space is a protected historical and cultural landmark.
Their signature cocktail is the ‘Million Red Roses’ which was recently included into Alia Akkam’s new book “Behind the Bar: 50 Cocktail Recipes from the World’s Most Iconic Hotels”. The celebrated song, ‘Million Red Roses’ by one of the most beloved singers in Russia, Alla Pugacheva, inspired this cocktail – a sparkling taste of Russia.
Cocktail “Million Red Roses”
Ingredients: • Vodka Russian Standard Platinum 4 cl • Grapefruit juice 10 cl • Honey Syrup (1 part honey to 2 parts water) 2 cl • Sparkling wine 10 cl • Garnish – Aspidistra leaf, rose petals
Method: Combine the vodka, grapefruit juice and syrup in a cocktail shaker filled with ice and shake well. Strain into a chilled wine glass with a few ice cubes at the bottom. Add the sparkling wine and stir. The bar fancifully garnishes this drink with aspidistra leaf and rose petals, but it’s also lovely in its unadorned state.
When the place you’re dreaming of is Bali, we look to our friends at Capella Ubudwith Dwi Anggayani and Adip.
Capella Ubud is unlike any place we’ve ever seen. Nestled in the heart of lush green forests, this unique tented camp sits in harmony with its surroundings, embracing nature and promoting balance and harmony. Inspired by the early European settlers from the 1800s, architect Bill Bensley designed Capella Ubud as a tribute to their spirit of adventure.
Cucumber Rita 45ml Tequila
Fresh Cucumber
10ml Cucumber Syrup
25ml homemade Orangecello
30ml Lime Juice
– Cut the fresh cucumber into 3-4 slices, put it in the shaker and crush it well- Add cucumber syrup, orangecello, lime juice and tequila- Add some ice cubes and shake well- Pour into the glass and enjoy But let the experts show you themselves! Here’s Dwi and Adip to show us how’s it done…
Last but definitely not least, we find ourselves back in London at a BBB favourite, The Lanesboroughwith Mickael Perron who heads up The Library Bar at The Lanesborough.
Talking about his signature Gaspari Manhattan, Mickael explains “The Manhattan is the greatest American cocktail that I know, and I invented this some years back when I was entering a cocktail competition. It was my grandmother Mimi Gaspari’s birthday, but I was missing the celebrations to take part, so I made a drink in tribute. It’s based on a Rob Roy, a Scotch Manhattan, and the rosemary adds a scent of the Mediterranean. At the time, not many people were using herbs or spices in drinks, but rosemary is easy to come by. We burn it into the Bénédictine, Blue Blazer-style. The flavour works well with the Scotch, and it gives off a big flame, which creates a sense of occasion – when people see a big glass of ice with fire above it, they want to know what’s going on.”
Gaspari Manhattan
60 ml Whisky: The BALVENIE CARIBBEAN CASK – 14 years Old Single Malt Whisky 35 ml Vermouth Mix : 25ml PUNT E MES + 5ml Cizanno + 5ml Lillet 20 ml To Flame: Benedictine 4 Dashes of Aromatic Bitters Rosemary, a Generous spring to burn & garnish
Pour the whisky, vermouth, bitters in a mixing glass, add ice and stir Use a separate cup, fuse a lighter and flame the rosemary bathing in BenedictineLet it cook until the smell and flames are ready to be transferred to the mixing glassPour the flame over the iced mixed cocktail, stir gently the rosemary into the drinkFine strain into your glass, pre prepared with a nice ice cube Glassware & Final Touches: Coupe, rocks, any… Orange peel squeezed over the glass, discard Small rosemary spring somewhere with your glass (small wooden peg helps)
Stay tuned to our social media over the coming days and weeks too, where we’ll be sharing even more iconic and inspiring drinks from our friends around the globe! We’ll be raising a glass to a better year ahead for us all…
As Friday finally arrives, our minds inevitably turn to the weekend and the ‘fun’ we might have (and possibly the ‘bigger fun’ we might have had pre-lockdown!). Many of us are doing Dry January (and impressively, a fair number of people we have spoken to have stuck to it so far, and some are even planning to continue for the foreseeable! We salute you…)
We yearn for Friday Night Cocktails, out on the tiles with friends perhaps in Soho or at a friend’s house. But whilst the nation remains in lockdown, we may need to forego the physical socialising element, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still enjoy a ’social’ event of sorts.
Whether you’re treating yourself to a well-done work week, alone or with pals on zoom, or you’re lucky enough to live with a loved one, a Friday night drink is definitely something to celebrate. In honour of our dry friends, we have done the legwork and researched some of the best non-alcoholic drinks, spirits and cocktails around! Here are BBB’s top drinks for a sober night in that doesn’t feel like a compromise…
1. Feragaia– this Scottish drink is made from ‘land and sea botanicals’ which seems quite fitting, as the name translates as ‘Wild Earth’, very apt for the rugged beauty of Scotland. Drunk over ice or with a tonic, this vermouth-type drink is flavourful and original. Sign up to the Feragaia mailing list to get 15% off your first order (also the website itself is gorgeous!)
2. Three Spirit– a BBB favourite for a while now, there are now 3 different flavours to choose from- The Livener, Social Elixir and Nightcap! The drinks combine plants used for centuries in ceremonies and potions to stimulate the palate, mind and body, promote connection and positive social experiences without alcohol. Vegan, gluten-free and sustainably packaged, we love them! BBB Members get 15% off using code BBB15 at checkout (UK only).
3. New London Light, by Salcombe Distilling Co. – bold and refreshing and unbelievably 0% ABV, this one is full of flavour and utterly delicious. It is made by first distilling three botanicals: bold Macedonian juniper berries, zesty ginger and warm habanero capsicum. The base is then carefully blended with 15 further botanicals including orange, sage, cardamom, cascarilla bark and lemongrass, to create this unique and stunning flavour. SDC also have 2 great offers on right now, valid until 31 Jan: Free UK Mainland shipping on all orders over £25, plus the NLL subscription offer of 20% off every month when you sign up using the code LIVELIGHT.
4. STRYYK – this brand are no stranger to the spotlight and it’s easy to see why. Their Not G*n, Not R*m and Not V*dka are each and all impressive, but we love that they are also making cocktails and also providing ample recipe inspiration on the website for those wanting to get creative at home! AND, if you sign up for the newsletter, it’s a whopping 40% off your first order!
5. Seedlip’s Nogroni– anyone who knows the BBB team personally will know that we are avid fans of the Negroni (I mean, what’s not to love?!). Indeed, we pride ourselves on having tasted negronis around the world in a real cross-section of establishments! However, we can confirm that this non-alcoholic from Seedlip is superb (and, no hangover! Who knew…) Seedlip are also offering a mystery ‘free gift’ for all orders in January too, so time to place another order, we say!
Bottoms up…Here’s to the light on the horizon BBB x
Naianna Robertsson, BSc, MSc, PhDc, Certified Mindfulness and Meditation Instructor and Founder of Neurocompatible has come to BBB to share her insights on the power of meditation and the importance of the practice in everyday life, but especially during a pandemic…. Plus a competition prize for one lucky reader below!
We are living in a very strange time, life has changed on various levels and we are all being affected by health concerns, financial worries, lack of motivation, anxiety, depression, and an overall reduced sense of wellbeing. But it is possible to manage our anxiety and brain health and not let stress overwhelm us.
An incredibly powerful way to keep your stress levels down is having a regular meditation practice. When you meditate, you are in the calmest state your mind and body can ever experience.
But here is the fun part; yes, meditation is incredible for you, but just like different sports enhance different parts of your body, different types of meditation have different effects on different parts of your brain. Scientists have suggested that different meditation styles should be recommended according to what areas of your life you want to focus on.
After years of working as a neuroscientist and also training as a meditation teacher, I decided to combine modern science with ancient meditation practices, and the Neurocompatible Meditation course was born. The technique that I teach combines the three most powerful and brain-changing styles of meditation (non-directive meditation, mindfulness and visualisation) into one simple practice. Based on cutting-edge neuroscience research, each technique has been proven to change different areas of your brain, so when combined, they become your secret weapon to success and to a new, enhanced version of you. The technique allows you to tap into your dormant potential, to unlock your brain power to reduce how you respond to stress, increase emotional resilience, boost productivity, alertness, drive, and give you an overall calmer and happier life.
My own personal experience of going through depression and anxiety after I had my first baby is what first brought me to practice meditation daily, as a matter of survival. I needed to establish a routine to better look after my mental health and wellbeing, as I was predisposed to dark and negative thoughts if left to my own devices. When I could finally speak about this part of my life in the past tense, I became hugely inspired to spread the benefits of meditation as a brain-training tool to others.
Meditation has quite literally changed who I am, how I speak to myself, my inner voice, my sense of self-worth, my productivity levels and my time feeling present with my family. The practice has also helped me cultivate strength and resilience to navigate the uncertainties of the pandemic that we are collectively experiencing, where a lot of us had to reinvent ourselves and our work.
I am driven by the conviction that each of us have the potential to rewire the brain to unlock its unlimited potential – intensifying focus, managing stress and anxiety, and improving resilience, self-awareness and emotional intelligence. My goal is to make meditation accessible to everyone, to demystify it, to simplify it for people. To spread the message that meditation is literally nourishing food to your brain, it is not a luxury treat that you give yourself occasionally, it is a mental hygiene habit, just like brushing your teeth and taking a shower.
I designed a course for anyone and everyone looking to take charge of their wellbeing, and what better time to focus on your brain health than the beginning of a new year? Whether you’re completely new to meditation or if you already have a regular practice, this course will give you invaluable new tools and new insights into how to transform your brain health.
Here’s what some past course participants had to say about The Neurocompatible Meditation course:
“I found Naianna’s course incredibly interesting. She has a lovely way of teaching and she breaks it down so it’s easy to understand and absorb. It was also great to learn about the science behind it all. It really helped with motivation and the desire to adopt the practice long term. I now feel like I am equipped for life with a way to relax, help look after my mental health, and optimise my productivity.” – Alice Godfrey – Nutritional Therapist
“Thank you so so much for this course, I have loved every minute. I’ve done guided meditation for a few years, but I suppose I never really quite understood it. Thanks to your generous sharing of your knowledge, I now really get it. It makes so much sense and better still I can now do it properly – without any aids and at any time I want, as long as I have 15 minutes alone – in the car, in the park, the loo or a quiet place at home. You gave so much detail of the science behind it and how it affects the brain, that is utterly fascinating, and great to understand the enormous difference it can make to your life. I’ve used the visualisations to deal with some stressful work things too and it’s given me the confidence to go through with it, and of course I’m using it for the lifelong goal / dream I have. I’m feel enormously lucky to be doing this course with you, I feel like I’m beginning an incredibly important and life changing journey – thank you.” – Nic Kemp – Course student
My new live-streaming Zoom course starts on Saturday, January 30th 10am-11:30am and runs for 4 weeks. If you can’t attend one of the live sessions, worry not! A recording will be available for one week after each session, so you can catch up in your own time. Join me and gain complete control of your brain health and wellbeing, and become a self-sufficient meditator for life!
COMPETITION! One lucky reader will win a place on Naianna’s next course – to enter, just email info@thebbbook.com with your name and phone number, plus your answer to the following question… Which 2 daily habits does Naianna liken Meditation practice to? The competition opens now and closes at midnight on Monday 18th January 2021. Good luck!
Some of us had grand plans to get away this Winter, perhaps letting go of stress whilst sailing in the Bahamas, or snuggling up with someone we don’t see enough of in a chalet in Aspen. Honeymoons weren’t taken, holidays of a lifetime have been postponed and our wanderlust has had no choice but to be packed up and set aside until the world is a safer place… 2020 really has a lot to answer for!
It would be all too easy to sit and feel miserable about the birthday that should have been spent in the Maldives, but was instead confined to a London flat, or the big family gathering to celebrate the milestone birthday of an ageing relative on a remote Greek island. But that doesn’t solve anything, and certainly doesn’t make us feel better.
So, rather than dwelling on regrets, we’re packing our bags mentally and heading off on a tour of some of the most beautiful, unusual or Instagram-able bars around the world. After all, ’tis the season to be merry…
We kick things off in good old New York City, at Dear Irving on Gramercy. This is a speakeasy unlike any other – it has 4 different rooms to showcase 4 different eras! Our favourite is definitely the F. Scott Fitzgerald room, with cascades of crystals raining around private areas, but the Marie Antoinette room is sumptuous and definitely has a little ‘ooh-la-la’! The menu regularly features seasonal additions and we’ve heard the Grove Groove is the one to go for (“Like Autumn sunshine served up- citrus paired with cardamom & rhubarb”). There is also another location on Hudson with its own set of fun…
To escape the city, we next head off to Cova D’en Xoroi in Menorca, a sunset bar with live music. Perched above a cave, around 100 feet above the Mediterranean Sea, this bar offers equally stunning views both day and night. The cave is named after the legend of a Turkish pirate called Xoroi, who is said to have sheltered in the cave to avoid capture, but on discovery, he jumped into the sea and was never seen again (after 2020 we quite know how he feels!) Thankfully the bar’s excellent DJs keep guests out of the water and dancing the night away instead.
To get off the beaten track, we then headed to Wind & Water Cafe, about 1 hour outside Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Sitting in the middle of a lake, this stunning bar is made entirely from natural materials and was built without a single nail, using only traditional Vietnamese weaving techniques. It’s quite something! Even the furniture is bamboo, so sitting here you can really feel at one with nature. Just the antidote for a world of worry….
If you’re not content with being above the waterline, why not slip below atSubsix underground restaurant and bar at Niyama, Maldives. Hide away in the depths at this breathtaking clam-inspired bar, with swooping curves, soft anemone chairs and a ceiling covered in shells. At 6 meters below the shoreline, the only drink to really have whilst grandly enjoying the parrotfish, grouper, butterflyfish and others swimming past, is of course Dom Perignon. We’ll see you in a few hours….
Continuing our theme of drinks whilst enjoying natural wonders, we head next to the award-winning Northern Lights bar at the Ion Adventure Hotel, less than 1 hour from Reykjavik. As the name suggests, this bar was designed explicitly for optimal viewing of the Northern Lights. Amid mountains and lava fields, the glass bar protrudes from the end of the hotel and often has local astronomers as visitors, sharing their knowledge of all things aurora borealis. Stargazing is so hopeful, do you find…?
Being underwater is one of our favourite things. And the good thing about doing it in a bar is that you dont even have to get wet (or worry about bikini bodies!) So next we head back under the surface to Under in Southern Norway – the world’s largest underwater restaurant and first in Europe. Recently awarded a Michelin star, the restaurant is as equally about the experience as the food. Like an art installation, the building itself, designed by award-winning architect firm Snøhetta, is reminiscent of a rock formation rising out of the sea. The structure is designed to fully integrate into the marine environment over time, as the roughness of the concrete shell functions like an artificial reef, welcoming limpets and kelp to inhabit it. Like a sunken periscope, the restaurant’s enormous window offers a view of the seabed and its life forms as it changes throughout the seasons and weather conditions. It is spectacular, and the drinks are too!
Heading back above sea level, we come to The Rock As the name suggests, the Rock Restaurant and Bar is perched on the top of a rock. Once a fisherman’s post in Zanzibar, this fantastic spot is what dreams are made of. You can get there using its dedicated boat service or wait for low tide and wade over – either way, a treat is in store. ‘“It’ll never happen”. “It is just not possible”, they said. And the rest is history.’ Lovingly run and decorated in a simple, unfussy local island style, the restaurant specialises in seafood. The Rock in unpretentious, breathtakingly beautiful and full of passion – just how we like it.
Last but by no means least (we could carry on drinking but our blog might make less sense!) is Vertigo in Bangkok. This is hailed as the city’s ultimate rooftop experience, offering al fresco dining on a terrace overlooking the glittering cityscape of Bangkok. Moon Bar is the ultimate hangout for cocktails, a staggering 61 floors above the city. Highly recommended is the signature Vertigo Sunset, don’t mind if we do!
But alas, after our bar crawl around the globe it’s time to return back home (and pray for mercy on the hangover tomorrow!) But the glamour doesn’t all stop within our own part of the world. The fabulous Fin Spiteri from Spiteri & Co has kindly shared with us one of his signature seasonal cocktail receipes, to get us in the Christmas spirit at home. Care to join us?
Christmas in NYC (So called as it’s a twist on a sweet Manhattan)
You will need Christmas Pudding infused Whisky for this cocktail which you should make beforehand. Take 150g of mince pie filling and steep in a bottle of bourbon overnight, in the morning strain the mixture into a new bottle and store in the fridge.
To make the drink combine 50ml of your Christmas bourbon in a chilled mixing glass with 25ml sweet vermouth (Punt e Mes works well with this recipe) and 2 dashes of pimento bitters (orange or angostura will do if you don’t feel like tracking down pimento bitters) Stir until well chilled and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a spritz of orange zest.
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