Author: dave

BBB’s Iconic Cocktail Guide for February 2021

Written by dave on 4 February 2021. Posted in All, Food, Latest, Lifestyle, Travel.

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!

First stop, The Dorchester in London
with Giuliano Morandin, Bar Manager at The Bar

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.

Giuliano Morandin Bar Manager at The Bar Dorchester London

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.

Creating The Martinez with Giuliano Morandin at The Dorchester London

The Dorchester Old Tom Gin is still being distilled and can be bought at the hotel or on the hotel website.

Next up, the iconic Bellini from the Belmond Hotel Cipriani, Venice, Italy
with Walter Bolzonella, Head Barman

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.

See Walter and the Original Bellini in action!

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.

Coconut Negroni

Iron Ball Thai Gin, Infused Coconut, Mancino Rosso, Campari, Coconut Oil

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

For a truly decadent experience, we head to the Grand Hotel Europe, A Belmond Hotel in St Petersburg, Russia

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 Ubud with 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 Lanesborough with 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…

Dry January = Delicious January

Written by dave on 22 January 2021. Posted in All, Food, Lifestyle, Wellbeing.

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 Robertson on mental health and the power of meditation

Written by dave on 12 January 2021. Posted in All, Lifestyle, Partner Blogs, Wellbeing.

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.

The Neurocompatible Meditation Technique

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 30^th 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!

Naianna Robertsson, Founder of Neurocompatible BSc, MSc, PhDc, Certified Mindfulness and Meditation Instructor

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!

Cheers to the end of the year!

Written by dave on 22 December 2020. Posted in All, Food, Lifestyle, Travel.

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…

F. Scott Fitzgerald room at Dear Irving on Gramercy NYC

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 at Subsix 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!

Under Michelin star restaurant in Southern Norway

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)

50ml Christmas Infused Whisky
25ml Sweet Vermouth
2 dashes Pimento Bitters

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.

Private European Escapes for 2021

Written by dave on 15 December 2020. Posted in All, Lifestyle, Travel.

At BBB we pride ourselves on not only having great relationships with some of the leading hotels and travel companies in the world, but also that we have some lesser known incredible gems up our sleeves. As 2020 draws to a close and we look with hope towards the arrival of New Year, one thing is certain – the way we travel has changed. This year, unsurprisingly, we have seen a huge increase in UK breaks and for those who can afford to, in luxury private travel. With that in mind, we’re continuing to source the best locations we can, at home and abroad, that we hope will inspire you both when booking personal holidays or trips for principals.

For this blog, we’re focusing on private stays around Europe. We have delved deep into our black book and come up with 6 places that we think will take your breath away….

Be Peaceful in Provence

Featured in Vogue, the private and beautiful Provencal Hamlet has been lovingly and artistically restored to provide an excellent destination for larger groups. This interconnected complex of suites and houses are perched high above the Luberon boasting stunning views. At 2,600 feet above the sea, with almost zero humidity, the nights are cool and days mosquito-free.

Provencal Hamlet perched high above the Luberon

The property is spread throughout several houses, each having their own simple and eclectic style. The interiors combine a wealth of wonderful paintings, objets d’art and furniture predominantly from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s eras. The Grand Banc can sleep up to 32, but 24 is the preferred maximum. The different arrangements of the bedrooms, such as twins, doubles and a dormitory style room mean that your needs are sure to be met comfortably and in style.

The property has everything you could possibly need, with its own restaurant, bar and nightclub. Spend time in the games room, playing petanque in the car park or relaxing by the pool. Set in 400 acres of farmland, scrub oak, lavender and orchards, one of the highlights is the stunning outdoor dining room seating up to 30 guests.

As well as the in-house chef, caterers can provide special dinners and picnics around the grounds can be organised in a variety of stunning spots.

Guests love this house for its magical setting and history. An abandoned French village transformed into a charming family hamlet with amazing views and works of art.

In Search of Captain Corelli

Featured in Conde Nast Traveller as one of Europe’s best villas, The Cassiopeia estate enjoys spectacular views, with beautiful landscaped grounds surrounded by sea. Cassiopeia House and Atolikos House can be taken together for larger parties or rented separately. Both have a strong Venetian influence complementing their traditional Corfiot features with the ultimate in contemporary comfort. Both offer privacy, luxurious accommodation and stunning pool areas with much sought after sea access.

There are 8 elegant bedrooms, sleeping 16. The open-plan dining/living area enjoy french doors that open on to a terrace offering stunning 180 degree wrap around sea views. Stairs from the spacious sitting room leads towards a fabulous retro style cinema room with huge pink sofas and a 52 inch TV. The rooftop is the perfect location for relaxing and lounging with friends while watching the sunset.

Cassiopeia estate open-plan dining/living outdoor area

Pathways weave their way through the estate’s beautiful indigenous flora and woodland to a private jetty, a small pebble beach and Atolikos point where guests can swim from sun drenched rocks. The dramatic view provides a sublime backdrop to the estate.

Cassiopeia estate open-plan dining/living Indoor area

Cassiopeia enjoys a 20m salt water pool and there is a second pool designed for small children. Guests love the classy, neutral decor and direct sea access which Cassiopeia House offers. Fully staffed, this house has everything you need for the ultimate Corfu experience.

Unbelievable Umbria

Grand, noble, imposing… Palazzo has the feel of a traditional Italian palace, whizzed up to date with stylish Reschio interiors.

It has 5 spacious bedrooms sleeping 10 guests and natural stone bathrooms with stunning views. All bedrooms come with fully equipped ensuites and dressing rooms, completing the feeling of opulence and luxury.

Unbelievable Umbria Living room interior

Inside, the spacious rooms have high, vaulted ceilings, floors laid with reclaimed terracotta tiles and beautifully hand-painted wallpapers, blending seamlessly with stylish modern furnishings, all centred on a spectacular cantilevered staircase.

Outside, there’s a breezy loggia with three huge arches that perfectly frame the large, heated infinity pool and the uninterrupted views of the valleys beyond.

Unbelievable Umbria Hotel breezy loggia with three huge arches overlooking infinity pool

Palazzo has plenty to keep guests busy, including a wine cellar, tennis court, gym and games room. It is also part of the Castello di Reschio Estate, which has other spectacular properties available to rent, so perfect for larger families or groups of friends.

Find Calm in Comporta

Carvalhal recently featured in Elle Decor and is only a 12 minute walk from Carvalhal beach. This inviting yet stylish villa in Comporta is the perfect summer getaway for families or groups of friends. With its beach-washed cottage style, clean lines and warm bohemian touches, Carvalhal House is the definition of ‘Comporta Calm’. The layout also means it’s perfect for family holidays.

The property has three separate units. The Main house has a master bedroom and adjacent bathroom, an exceptional kitchen, with a ‘La Cornue’ stove and cosy dining area. There is also a spacious and bright living room with a fireplace.

There are 2 further guest houses, each with 2 suites with comfortable double beds, plus a small kitchenette in the second guest house. All bedrooms are air-conditioned and have private terraces.

Even though all areas of the house are equipped with modern amenities like AC and Wi-Fi, the owners have chosen not to install TVs in the house, emphasizing the natural and relaxing setting of both their home and this pristine part of Portugal. After a warm day at the beach you’ll find yourself laying down on one of the many spacious (covered) lounge areas outside, or cooling down in the private swimming pool. There is also an outdoor dining table allowing for alfresco lunches and dinners, and a BBQ grill.

Find Calm in Comporta Guest House Living Dining Room

Guests love Carvalhal House for its enviable location and its stylish, calm interiors exuding peace and serenity. It is a short 80 minute drive from Lisbon airport.

Get away to the Guadalmina River

Furnished with Spanish and European antiques and set at the foot of the mountains, this peaceful spot offers plenty of picture-perfect scenery to savour while relaxing or exploring.

The property is split into 3 parts that can be rented separately or together – the main house, Tramares, the smaller luxury villa Casa del Rio, sleeping 10 and a smaller guest house. In total the property can sleep up to 30 people.

The villa is surrounded by verdant gardens gently sloping down to the Guadalmina river. The huge manicured lawn is ideal for the odd ball game, while the many shady terraces are perfect for eating al fresco or enjoying the stunning gardens. A large roof terrace with huge lounging day beds also gives rise to great views, while you can cool off in the private large pool tucked away at the rear of the house and surrounded by lush gardens and lawns.

The staff at the villa can also arrange all manner of days out on request, such as days on chartered yachts, tours to the Alhambra, Seville, Ronda, Cordoba, Gibraltar, Morocco etc, and all manner of sports activities and beauty treatments. Casa del Rio is roughly a 50 minute drive to Malaga airport.

Inimitable Ibiza

For the ultimate in Ibizan chic luxury, look no further. Tagomago is one of the most beautiful private islands in the Mediterranean. It offers everything you could possibly dream of, making it the ideal location for high-end clients looking for a unique family vacation or to celebrate an unforgettable event. It truly has it all!

Tagomago Private Island in n the Mediterranean Sky View

Situated approximately 900 metres off the coast of Ibiza, the island is easily accessible by boat or helicopter. The busy cosmopolitan town of Ibiza and the international airport are only a few minutes by car away from the nearest port.

The whole private island of Tagomago has a plot of 600.000 m2 in a breath-taking natural environment, offering you absolute privacy, high security, spectacular sunrises and sunsets, as well as its own private jetty for mooring. Almost any kind of water sport is available, including activities such as jet skis, 2 tender-boats, water skiing, wakeboarding, paddle surfing, canoeing, fishing, snorkelling and sailing. By land, guests can also enjoy the long trail to Tagomago’s lighthouse, various nature walks, hiking, the private pool and the amazing outdoor fitness area. The beautiful beaches and turquoise waters of Formentera can be reached by motor yacht in less than 30 minutes.

Motor yacht on the turquoise waters of Formentera

The only mansion on the island, the accommodation is situated right in the middle of Tagomago and has 5 double bedrooms with bathrooms en suite, a customized designer Kitchen with professional equipment, floor heating and air conditioning, a magnificent 17m x 8m outdoor swimming pool with a spacious sunbathing area and various spacious sunrise and sunset chill out areas. The property is fitted to a high standard throughout, including SONOS Media-System, modern Samsung-TV, fast WIFI, LED light system etc.

The entire estate is surrounded by magnificently spacious terraces with breath-taking views in all directions. The Jacuzzi is also located on the vast pool terrace. A barbecue offers wonderful alfresco dining, to fully appreciate the views. The villa is fully staffed, but those wishing to bring staff are also well catered for – separate staff accommodation is provided.

Tagomago is located at only 5 minutes away (by Tender-boat) from the well-known bay of Pou des Lleo, situated in the North-East coast of Ibiza. The Tender-boats are 24 hours at the disposal of the guest, so that these can move in and out of the Island with zero struggle. This truly is one of the most desired private islands in the world.

If these 6 beautiful properties have inspired you for next year and you’d like to discuss one of them, or any other travel, please get in touch with the BBB team. We do our best to secure special prices as well as other exclusive perks for BBB Members, just another bonus to being part of the club…

Private Escapes for Some Winter Sun

Written by dave on 7 December 2020. Posted in All, Travel.

As we enter December and temperatures in London drop, the skies are more consistently grey and we’re stilllll at home, we are increasingly dreaming of escaping to a desert island somewhere; somewhere hot with the water lapping at our feet, the sun shining and absolutely zero news about Coronavirus… Whilst we sadly have too much on running BBB right now, we wanted to share with you our favourite private destinations for Winter Sun – perhaps they are of interest to you or your principals…. (Send us a postcard!)

The Fleming Villa

Situation at Oracabessa Bay in the heart of Jamaica lies the GoldenEye Estate, and within that is the magical Fleming Villa. As you may have guessed from the name, this was Ian Fleming’s private residence and indeed the place where he wrote all 14 James Bond novels! So it has some pretty unique history and is the ultimate glamorous yet private getaway on the island.

The Fleming Villa is like an island unto itself. The main villa has two satellite cottages, a private beach, state of the art media room, private pool and gardens, plus a dedicated staff that includes a butler, housekeeper and cook.

Ian Fleming’s private residence at The Fleming Villa

Walk over to GoldenEye for a spa treatment, sunset cocktails at the Bizot Bar or dinner at the Gazebo Restaurant. On returning to Fleming Villa you are once again secluded. If these walls could talk they’d tell tales of artists and writers, spies and seducers. The romantic atmosphere is palpable.

GoldenEye Spa Treatment at The Fleming Villa

Without the slightest experience but with the greatest self-confidence, Fleming designed the house himself. As a typically dogmatic Englishman, he decided there would be no windows — just customary Jamaican jalousie blinds to let in the air and sun. And of course, he was right: The breezes at GoldenEye are a delight, all hours of the day, all times of the year.

The villa sleeps up to 10 adults and is located 20 minutes east of Ocho Rios, an hour and 45-minute drive from Montego Bay and Kingston, and less than a 10-minute drive from Ian Fleming International Airport.

Riad, Marrakech

For something a little closer to the UK, we highly recommend this stunning 18th century traditional Moroccan riad right in the heart of bustling Marrakech. The teeming life of the city is only moments away from the front door, and yet the property offers the utmost in privacy and relaxation – an oasis of calm.

6 spacious suites are decorated with neutral tones, accommodating up to 17 people in total. Large, open and spacious with beautiful traditional yet modern Moroccan theme running throughout, the property remains a quiet oasis in the centre of the bustling Medina, with a swimming pool and surrounded by a lush courtyard garden.

A mix of Morrocan, English and French cuisine, Riad Marrakech prides itself on wonderful food, with tea by the roaring fire in winter, home made pastries and more…. The cook is happy to prepare personalised meals using the freshest ingredients from the property’s organic gardens.

Arijiju, Kenya

Hewn into a rocky hillside on the sprawling Borana Reserve in Laikipia, Kenya, Arijiju is an enchanting family home that is available for exclusive hire for groups of up to ten. The calm and contemplative space takes inspiration from the Ethiopian monasteries that lie to the North, boasting vaulted archways, stone passageways and a central courtyard, whilst its flat roofs planted with natural grasses and rough-hewn rock see it all but disappear into the untamed landscape.

Borana Reserve in Laikipia Kenya Arijiju Outside View

For us, the highlight of staying here is the ‘constellation suite’ available for those nights too beautiful to sleep anywhere but under the stars.

A team of 14 resident staff that range from guides and rangers to butlers and chefs ensure that guests are totally looked after throughout their stay. Arijiju is not just a safari lodge but a health and wellness retreat too. The cuisine and fresh daily smoothies lend to the healthy lifestyle Arijiju supports.

Borana Reserve in Laikipia Kenya Arijiju family home

There is a spa, Hammam, gym, yoga deck, tennis court and squash court all inconspicuously blending into the valley, with treatments by Arijiju’s highly skilled masseuse and beauty therapist inclusive in the rates, and carefully mapped out running trails to offer unique ‘running safaris’.

Borana Reserve in Laikipia Kenya Arijiju Interior

The Maasai Mara is perhaps Kenya’s most famous safari region, but perhaps more rewarding is Laikipia’s exceptional diversity, with snow-capped mountains, dense forests and sprawling deserts lying to the North and East and the towering Mount Kenya to the south. As such, Arijiju offers a truly unrivalled number of ways to explore the area and spot the Big 5, including the usual 4×4 safaris, but also expeditions by horseback, walking, mountain biking and quad-bikes. Further afield, stride through the canopy of the Ndare Ngare forest on aerial bridges and spend a night camped in its lush interior, or board a helicopter to soar over hidden ecosystems nestled in the craters of dormant volcano and shimmering mountain lakes pink with flamingo.

Borana Reserve in Laikipia Kenya Arijiju Suite

Rahimoana Villa, Eagle’s Nest, New Zealand

This presidential villa boasts four private ensuite bedrooms, all adorned with original artwork from both New Zealand and international artists, to accommodate a maximum of eight people in complete comfort and luxury. The award-winning 600 square metre design takes full advantage of the 320-degree Bay of Islands views.

This villa offers some incredible amenities, including a state-of-the-art gym, sauna, 25 metre heated horizon edged swimming pool, Jacuzzi, Porsche Cayenne for guest use, 2x theater systems (one with a massive 100” screen), high speed wireless internet access, a personal chef-provisioned refrigerator and selection of premium local wines, a selection of French Champagne and a personal concierge and villa manager.

Rahimoana Villa, Eagle’s Nest, New Zealand Pool view

A resident personal trainer and spa therapists—including beauticians and massage therapists—are on hand to ensure no guest goes un-pampered.

Rahimoana Villa, Eagle’s Nest, New Zealand Suite View

With over 144 islands to explore, the Bay of Islands has no shortage of outdoor activities and adventures. Choose from big game fishing, sailing, diving, kayaking, helicopter flight-seeing, mountain biking and more. Eagles Nest can accommodate a wide range of interests and delights in customizing special packages based on guests interest.

Rahimoana Villa, Eagle’s Nest, New Zealand suite interior

For those willing to fly the distance, this really is something special…

House on a Dune, Harbour Island, Bahamas

This stunning seafront property on Harbour Island is nestled amongst 1.5 acres of natural vegetation just off the main highway and sleeps up to 10 people.

The owner of House on a Dune is an internationally renowned architect who conceived the house as being “simultaneously powerful, yet comfortable; primitive, yet innovative; casual, yet elegant; raw, yet refined. The result is a sensual and sensitive experience, reduced to its essence through the use of elemental forms and sincere materialism and detailing.”

The interiors are modern and minimalistic, blending seamlessly into the surrounding forest and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The central space of the house is essentially an open breezeway. Within this pavilion space are the living and dining areas that open onto verandas, well protected from any bad weather by the deep overhangs of the roof. The rest of the living spaces are simply arranged around the central space.

House on a Dune Harbour Island Bahamas Pool View overlooking the Atlantic Ocean

On the main level is a dining table seating 12 and a kitchen hidden by recycled cedar doors. Large verandas with seating areas that can also be used for alfresco eating, lead to the gentle shelving beach with clear aquamarine water suitable for snorkelling, swimming and surfing.

House on a Dune Harbour Island Bahamas Outdoor Space

From the house there are steps down to a short path leading to the beach with its famous pink sand. Guests love this property for its stunning contemporary design and its location above the famous Pink Sands beach. We wouldn’t mind working so much if we could do it from here….

Thotalagala, Sri Lanka

High above the plains of South East Sri Lanka and balanced on the edge of the Haputale Escarpment lies a beautiful tea estate that was founded 145 years ago. It is a place that takes your breath away. Having recently been through a masterful restoration, the bungalow has been returned to its former glory, retaining every perfect detail and the lush grandeur of its colonial origins.

This small hotel consists of 7 rooms in total, 3 Junior Suites and 4 Suites with a shared infinity pool overlooking the Haputale escarpment. It is ideal for an exclusive hire.

Dining offers various possibilities. There is a communal dining table in main area and private dining is also available. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served daily, with optional extras such as high tea, champagne breakfast, the Thotalagala BBQ experience and a breakfast picnic all popular with guests. There are no set meal times and all meals can be catered to personal preferences, making stays truly individual.

Thotalagala Hotel Sri Lanka outdoor dining

Off-site activities include bicycle hire, a tour of the nearby Lipton Tea Factory, Lipton’s gardens, Horton Plains, Adisham Monastery and Ella. At 720ft high, Diyaluma Falls is the second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka and is a site of local folklore. It’s a wonderful place to visit.

Within the estate grounds are a primary school and a kindergarten which are provided for the children of the estate workers. Although uniforms and some books are subsidised by the government, fees are still present, and education is hugely important in Sri Lanka. Guests are encouraged to visit one of the schools and contribute to the ongoing education of future generations, bringing along whatever they see fit. This may include items such as stationary, educational items for young children or sports equipment (second hand is more than acceptable).

Staying at Thotalagala is an experience unlike any other.

We hope that these 6 special places around the globe have whet your appetite too. If you’d like to discuss prices, availability or any other destination of any type, please get in touch with us and we’d be happy to introduce you to the right expert to help!

Author: dave

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