Gulla Jónsdóttir's Los Angeles Hotlist

Here, interior designer and architect Gulla Jónsdóttir shares her favorite Los Angeles hotspots..

Way to spend a day alone? 

I wake up early and walk on the beach barefoot in the sand and after that go to a beautiful spa 

Best cocktail spot? 

The Ponte 

Breakfast?

The café at Fred Segal

Brunch?

Bel air hotel ~ Wolfgang puck restaurant 

Dinner?

I adore dinning at Tower Bar 

Museum?

Can’t beat a trip to the Getty Center 

Gallery?

Forever and always Hauser and Wirth Los Angeles

Artist?

Retna

Hotel?

La Peer Hotel which I designed

Beach?

Malibu

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Read our interview with Gulla here

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What Is.. The Class by Taryn Toomey

If you’re looking to feel alllll the feels, The Class by Taryn Toomey is the ultimate life changing workout for your mind + body. The Class, as created by fitness + well-being genius Taryn Toomey, is a unique physical experience that engages the mind like none other while working to build a long, strong, lean + toned physique. Through a simple collection of repeated calisthenics + plyometrics movement series you can expect to challenge your body’s ability to move like it never has before while also seizing the opportunity to engage your mind, capturing the relationship between mind + body in all it’s previously undiscovered glory. Understanding The Class can honestly + truly only be comprehended in hind sight or upon the momentary experiencing of it; upon completion you realise you’ve just been taken through something quite ethereal + are left with a newly grasped interpretation of all that can be tapped into through the beauty of movement. It’s an emotional journey + some, including myself, claim it holds a somewhat profound healing experience; intruth, for me, it helps me release trauma that’s been stagnant. It’s about total embodiment + for those who struggle with body-image or a lack of love for the body you’re in, the energy of this class in one way or another begins a new journey in self-confidence + an appreciation for your body that you’d never even allowed yourself deem possible. From the music to the instructors, the environment + the level of consciousness it gives, The Class by Tayrn Toomey is all the vibes in my world! With a physical location in New York City (another is opening this summer in LA) + a digital portal online you can check out what you didn’t know you needed in your life + check into a class at theclass.com

7 Online At Home Workouts

Sometimes going to a gym and getting sweaty with strangers just isn’t what feels good. Whether it’s that you’re kind of shy or simply just too busy to get your butt there, if you like to get your heart rate up and move your body, there’s never an excuse to not find time for exercise in your day and life with this list of at-home workout plans.

L O U I S A D R A K E M E T H O D

Louisa Drake is London’s hottest exercise goddess. Focusing on a very a unique fusion style of working out that combines her expertise as a professional dancer + choreographer with her incredible knowledge of the body + how to make movement fun + effective, Louisa’s personalised method brings you on a shape-changing journey, resulting in longer, leaner lines + a strengthen body tone. Having travelled the world working with celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow + Victoria Beckham, in 2017 Louisa set out to create her own method, opening her very own studio in London + it’s HOT AF. Incorporating resistance, conditioning, cardio + stretching, LDM is available online with videos to buy that you can enjoy on repeat or live classes to attend via Zoom. LDM is a complete non-negotiable, just give it a try!

louisadrake.com

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M E L I S S A W O O D H E A L T H

Melissa Wood-Tepperberg is a Mom, wellness coach, avid meditator, certified yoga and pilates teacher and plant-based eater, working to shift the way we live and help her fans thrive from the inside out. The former model’s goal is to help you find your best self through movement methods, intuitive eating and mindful meditation. Her method is a monthly subscription with membership including 12 workouts available at all times, exclusive workouts published every Monday by Melissa herself and bonus flows and guided meditations throughout the month. Her upbeat personality and infectiously positive attitude is completely contagious and she is the perfect workout companion whether you’re at home or on the road. Get a 5 day free trial before committing - but trust me, you won’t be able to give it up. 

melissawoodhealth.com

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L E S M I L L S

If you’ve been to a Les Mills class you’ll know what I mean, these workouts mean bin.ness. And Les Mills On Demand is no different and just as kick-ass. With membership you obtain access to over 800 online workouts, creating a plan to suit your overall goals. As a member you also gain access to the Les Mills online global fitness community to help you stay motivated and accountable. New workouts are published each week with none ever expiring. Train your way with Les Mills, no matter where in the world you are. Try it out before fully committing for a free 10 day trial. 

lesmills.com

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P. V O L V E

From your own custom dashboard, you can plan and track your progress with P.volve. From there P.vole is all about making sure your form is working for you. With form being everything, P.volve teaches you exactly how to do every movement correctly to reduce pain or injury and of course bring to life the results you are aiming for even faster. Choose from over 150 workouts with more being added every week - all accessible online or the P.volve app. Also, with access to a motivating private Facebook community group and discounts on P.volve equipment, if you’re looking for great results and something a little different, try this amazing new addition to the at-home workout sphere. 

pvolve.com

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G L O Y O G A

Glo is perhaps one of the only, if not the sole, online based yoga classes that equals the feeling of being at an in-person class. It’s fabulous yoga at it’s best.. and on the familiarity of your own mat in the comfort of your own home. Whether you access it through online or the app, it’s staggering how many types and the volume of classes available. With many famous yoga teachers accessible on the platform too you can literally find anything you want. The classes are honestly endless, from duration to type to classes specifically focused on a particular pose like Crow or Chaturanga. Also, an enquire month of unlimited yoga on Glo costs less than a single yoga class in New York City at just $18/month. So go get your zen on with Glo.

glo.com

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T H E S H O N A V E R T U E M E T H O D

Shona Vertue found her fame by becoming the lady that helped David Beckham find his flexibility. Known for her amazing strength training, HIIT workouts and yoga flows, Shona Vertue created her Vertue Method to help you find the strength in your yoga and the flexibility in your weights training. She incorporates all aspects of health and wellness in her plans and if you follow her on Instagram, you’ll find all her top tips for finding your flow and creating the healthy body you’ve always dreamed of. 

shonavertue.com

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S W E A T

Made famous by creator and fitness industry disruptor, Kayla Itsines, SWEAT is the ultimate quick and effective sweat session for those who are ‘busy busy’ but still need to get that heart rate going and feel like motivated to workout everyday - even on your off days. Created by females; Kayla has on-boarded some of the top female personal trainers in the world so that you can find exactly what you’re looking for in a PT, it’s the perfect all female community to help you feel at home in your body. With weekly fitness goals and plans (including days off) and weekly meal plans and shopping lists, SWEAT is a monthly subscription plan that is totally worth the $19.99 fee. 

sweat.com

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Eating Out in Los Angeles, 10 Hotspots

M A R G O T

8820 Washington Blvd #301, Culver City // Monday - Sunday 11am - 2am

Margo is the ultimate any-day spot that can take you from morning to night, Monday to Sunday. 

Designed by Thomas Schoos, the space is a mix of California cool and unreservedly decadent rooftop terrace chic. The food is top-notch classic plates, headed up by chef, Michael Williams, with the menu consisting of elegantly presented classics - think avocado for breakfast, past dishes for lunch and meaty delicacies for dinner. Enjoy a cocktail by cocktail guru David Kupchinsky or a beautiful glass of wine, chosen with the guidance of sommelier and general manager, John Snowden. 

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C E C C O N I ‘S

8764 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood // Monday - Thursday 8am - 12am, Friday 8am - 1am, Saturday 9am - 1am, Sunday 9am - 11pm

L.A kinda cool, Cecconi’s is a West Hollywood staple. On the corner of Melrose Avenue and Robertson Boulevard, the Soho House created restaurant is a contemporary Italian with a classic twist. The vibe is scene-y, let’s just say, you might see Scott Disick, Kourtney Kardashian and the kids rock up for weekend brunch. It’s very L.A. Menu highlights are definitely ahi tuna tartare and the wood oven pizza’s, not forgetting any or all of the hand-made past dishes. 

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S U S H I P A R K

8539 W. Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood // Tuesday - Friday 12 - 1.45pm & 6 - 9pm, Saturday 6 - 9pm

Unassuming yet utterly unmissable, this quintessential sushi joint is hidden away on the second floor of a undistinguished strip mall on Sunset Boulevard. It’s a local hotspot where seats are like gold-dust and opening hours are limited, creating an exclusivity in a place you’d otherwise pass by without a second look. Upon dining at Sushi Park though, you just get it. The hype is real. It’s an Omakase situation only at the sushi bar or à la carte options are available if you chose to sit at a table. Wherever you sit though and whether you can get a seat, it’s worth every single (however pricey) dollar. 

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G R A C I A S M A D R E

8905 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood // Monday - Friday 11am - 11pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am - 11pm

Mexican delights with a twist: everything is vegan at this famed West Hollywood hotspot. Fear not though as every single dish has all the qualifications of a Mexican delight, spicy, zesty and full of flavour. It’s another somewhat too-cool-for-school spot that plays home to one of the chicest outdoor patio area where tables and lined with trees that sparkle with little fairy lights. Thanks to executive chef Alan Sanz, menu highlights have to be the guac and chips to start, any or all of the bowls or jackfruit carnitas tacos as a main and their signature mescal margarita or the CBD snow cone.. perhaps the most adventurous cocktails one can find in the vicinity. 

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L A U R E L H A R D WA R E

7984 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood // Monday - Friday 5pm - 2am, Saturday 3pm - 2am, Sunday 9.20am - 2am

Named after the original WeHo hardware store that once occupied the space, Laurel Hardware is a sleek peak at L.A’s beautiful crowd who casually hang out in the hotspots magical back patio. With the crowd typically just as gorgeous as their surrounds at the funky L.A eatery, the feel is definitely ultra scene-y. The creators are all about those unique craft cocktails with an inventive mid-priced New American food vibe. Menu highlights include allllllll the small plates, the grilled avocado & citrus salad and the delicious coconut curry grain bowl. 

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T H E L I T T L E D O O R

8164 W 3rd Street // Sunday - Thursday 6pm - 10pm, Friday and Saturday 6pm - 11pm

Nestled away in the hearty of 3rd Street, this tiny super romantic date night spot is one of the cities most reliable and trusty restaurants. The brasseries style eatery boasts a vanquishing combination of intimate character and delicious fare. Famous for it’s cutesy and intimate, dimly lit courtyard and classic Californian cuisine with ample French touches, you could say it’s a match made in dining out heaven and somewhere that, no matter how many places come and go in Los Angeles, will always be there to stay. The wine list is of note too with an impressibly extensive range, offering bottles from all over the world.

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R É P U B L I Q U E

624 South La Brea Avenue // Sunday - Wednesday 8am - 3pm & 5.30pm - 10pm, Thursday - Saturday 8am - 3pm & 5.30pm - 11pm

Replacing one of the most famous restaurants spaces in Los Angeles (previously Campanile), Republique had a hefty expectation placed upon it by simply opening where it has. However, in true LA style, the modern eatery has exceeded all such expectations with it’s contemporary French plates and friendly communal tables. Interiors here are something of a show and nothing short of magnificent with an impressive three kitchens, each opening out onto the main dining space. Along with the cleverly created marketplace-in-a-c courtyard and communal feel, an experience at Republique is a serious education in good dining. Menu highlights include (just about anything on there.. but specifically) the salads, the freshly made white corn agnolotti and the lamb shank or beef short rib. Also for the sake of humanity, do not pass on the bread basket, I repeat, do.not.pass.on.the.bread.basket. 

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R O S A L I N É

8479 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood // Sunday - Thursday 6 - 9.30pm, Friday & Saturday 6 - 10.30pm

A large, open space Rosaline is located right at Melrose and La Cienega and stands to be that trusty friend you can reply on for just about anything. Famed for it’s modern yet completely unpretentious take on Peruvian food - think traditional staples like paelle, ceviche and arroz con pollo; it’s got a little something that will suit every kind of eater. The space is cool, playing more in line with LA’s contemporary indoor-outdoor dining movement of late and boasts a Kevin Tsai architecturally-designed interior, bringing a very relaxed and modest feel to your evening out. Menu highlights have to be the crispy calamari marinated in yuzu kosho (a Japanese spice) and the solarito, a lima bean salad with avocados and feta. 

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C R A I G ‘S

8826 Melrose Avenue // Monday - Sunday 5pm - 12.30am

Rightly demanding the title of “the best place in Los Angeles to spot celebrities” Craig’s is that mystical place to experience even just once in a lifetime. Admittedly it’s not much more than overpriced American fare in the menu department and wouldn’t be our first choice for those looking for something mouthwateringly delectable but if you can overlook such details when dining out then it’s the most LA LA can get in terms of people watching. Guests are seated depending on their level of fame and from Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro to Larry King and the Gerbers, George Clooney and Amal, Kate Upton and just about anyone who’s anyone. Go even just for a drink at the bar; the $15 cocktails are worth it just to people watch. 

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T H E  B A Z A A R  BY  J O S É  A N D R É S 

465 La Cienega Boulevard // Wednesday & Thursday & Sunday 5.30pm - 10pm, Friday & Saturday 5.30pm - 11pm

Sexy and playful, this destination style restaurant was a $12 million collaboration between the famously hot-headed Spanish chef José Andrés, hotelier Sam Nazarian and designer Philippe Starck. Bringing to life something of a welcomed yet disorienting feel, the dazzling hotspot is brought together with a shockingly fabulous interior design, a patisserie, a Moss design store, two main dining rooms, a bar and an itinerant palm reader no less. The food is just as nonplussed, offering the likes of foie gras cotton candy and elegant cones filled with caviar which only once eaten can truly be understood; much like the overall experience of The Bazaar, it’s an experience comprehended as something truly special and bazaar. 

Edelle Kenny's New York City Hotlist

Edelle Kenny is an Irish, New York City based photographer, videographer and freelance TV producer. She has worked on major global campaigns, shooting top models and influencers, not to mention her work as a producer with the Discovery Channel. Edelle’s work is a beautiful mix of sultry and sexy with a depth of meaning very distinctive to her style. She lives and works in Manhattan.

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Favourite way to spend a day to yourself?

Wake up early. A run along the east river. Then, scoot to Williamsburg and get a take out breakfast and sit in Domino park. Followed by a trip back into Manhattan to spend hours, walking around aimlessly soaking in the ample culture that New York has to offer. with a disposable camera in hand.  Also on a more practical note, I’d probably find an hour to go to Trader Joes and do a food shop mid day while there are no lines. It’s not all dreamy folks. 

Favourite breakfast?

My favourite breakfast is disappointingly oats, in my own apartment. I recently just got my own lease on my first Manhattan apartment, which is a big deal for freelancer, and my kitchen thankfully overlooks not one but two of the beautiful community artists gardens in the East Village. It’s a rare sight of green in the city. 

Favourite brunch?

My Favourite brunch is Cafe Collet in Williamsburg. It’s an aesthetically well thought out cafe with impeccable food. Everything on the menu is delicious and get the dark chocolate toast for the table. 

Favourite dinner?

My favourite dinner is a hard choice! For an intimate group or one on one with a friend I’ve been going Hanoi House on St Marks. At times there’s a wait time of over an hour, but I’ve never been disappointed. 

Favourite cocktail spot?

Apotheke in China town. I’ve been here a few times over the last year and I really like it as a treat. It’s good cocktails, atmosphere and amazing music.

Favourite hotel?

My favourite hotel is the Whyte hotel or the William Vale in Williamsburg. I recently spent the evening in September with a friend and her family who were staying in a water facing room. Wine, the sun setting over manhattan and friends that feel like family is the best feeling. 

Favourite night out?

Honestly, anything and anywhere intimate with my closest friends. a dinner followed by a few drinks and good conversation. 

Favourite hidden gem?

Roosevelt Island is a small island on the east of Manhattan. There’s not a lot going on there, but bring a picnic and a concealed bottle of wine in the summer evenings, sit in the Four Freedoms Park and watch the sunset over Manhattan. It’s also the most amazing place during cherry blossom season. 

Favourite exercise class?

My favourite exercise class is Rumble or GRIT boxing. Sometimes you just got to punch it out. I don’t need to say more.

Favourite weekend escape?

My favourite weekend escape is The Rockaways in Queens. It’s a strip of beach in Queens that seems like a little island of it’s own! It’s about 1.5 hour cycle from the city or you can get a ferry out there. I’ve regularly seen schools of dolphins and whales from the shore. It’s a really quick fix when you need to escape the madness of Manhattan. 

Favourite boutique?

Awoke Vinatge. Without a doubt. My 2019 new years resolution was to be more eco-friendly so Awoke is the perfect match between a little luxury and second hand. 

Favourite artist?

Nadia Lee Cohen and AlexPrager. Neither of them have the same aesthetic style as me but I find both of them captivating. 

Favourite museum?

Museum of Moving Image! Its small and seems specialised but it’s so interesting. I have been to the Jim Henson exhibition twice and if you watched the muppets as a child, it’s a must. 

Image Edelle Kenny

50 Things to Shop for your Next Travel Adventure

Today I’m sharing 50 things to help you prepare for your next travel adventure.. from cosy airport attire to cashmere socks and in-flight eye-masks to hero beauty products and even a little sneaky travel-sized vibrator. Whatever your destination or travel time, I got you covered. Click through on any of the images to shop.

** Disclaimer, all the links below are affiliate links, meaning if you click through and decide to purchase the item, I get a small percentage of the price. Only if you purchase though and you do not pay any more than the store’s recommend retail price **

What Is.. FaceGym

Maybe you’re a spin enthusiast or a resistance-goddess, perhaps you love your morning run or sweating it out at Bikram? Whatever your chosen method of movement you understand and agree with the benefits in time spent working the body and a dedicated commitment to strengthening the muscles of our body; simply put it pays off to workout, right? Why then have we never connected such dedication to the face? Step forth FaceGym, the world’s first ever gym session for the face.

FaceGym was founded in 2016, by ex-beauty journalist Inge Theron who as a contributor for the Financial Times, documented her search for the next big thing in beauty in her column ‘Chronicles of a Spa Junkie”. Over a 3 year period she visited 57 spas, tried 25 anti-ageing treatments, tolerated 15 detoxes and sweated her way through 32 different types of movement classes. In her extreme search she underwent a face-lift procedure that left her house-bound due to complications and with a new outlook on skincare and the search for what works, she wondered if perhaps there was a less invasive was of ageing gracefully?

FaceGym is her resulting creation, the fruits of a two-year study that saw her travel the world to work with fitness experts, doctors, gurus and facialists. It’s a non-invasive facial workout requiring no knives, needles or recovery time; just 45 - 60 minutes in the hands of one of the company’s expert trainers. Exercising the face works to increase the blood circulation (allowing oxygen and nourishment to reach skin cells) and develop the 43 muscles in the face, making the shape of the face more full and defined. The ‘training’ part of the workout varies depending on the outcome you desire, so whether it’s a lifted look, tightening, detox, de-puffing or sculpting there is a varying custom-created workout. However the overall aim of a session at FaceGym is to stimulate the muscles, bringing back the skin’s natural elasticity and promoting collagen production. 

With similar steps to a body workout, the trainer will take you through the warm up, cardio, sculpting, and cool down stages of the workout. Using high energy kneading movements, a carefully selected selection of high-quality products from around the globe alongside optional vitamin boosters, a jade gua sha tool, a yoga ball and an electrical muscle stimulator (EMS), a session at FaceGym leaves your skin looks instantly tighter and brighter with your face visibly more sculpted. Fresh skin, the natural way, what’s not to love?

Available in London, Manchester, New York & coming soon to Los Angeles // Book your workout here // Workouts cost bewteen £50 and £225 or $70 and $270

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SHOP FACEGYM APPROVED PRODCUTS

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Stay at The London EDITION, Soho London

Primely situated on the edge of Soho and just a seven-minute walk from Oxford Circus, The London EDITION is a faultless blend of edgy elegance. The brainchild of American entrepreneur Ian Schrager, the once co-founder of Studio 54, it’s a bucket list London stay that doesn’t disappoint. 

Upon stepping inside, one is left somewhat open-mouthed at the splendour of the lobby. Swiftly captured by the sheer opulence, it’s a room within itself, doubling as a meeting space come day or night with it’s statement, low-lit bar and stylish seating area. A destination of sorts, the hotel conquers the quintessential magnificence of London with it’s social hub spirit. Whether staying the night or just spending a few hours hiding out from the hustle and bustle, the hotel’s selection of hangout spots is exceptional. Starting with bespoke cocktails at the Punch Room to the back of the building, followed by dinner at the now infamous Berners Tavern, a dining delight directed by famed Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton; while later winding down the evening back to the lobby bar for a night cap where the atmosphere sparkles with out-of-towners and locals alike.

Retiring to your room, guests are treated to a minimalist affair; one that lovers of contemporary interiors will really appreciate. Cosy in a chalet way, the rooms are a true escape; the perfect place to unwind. From loft to penthouse, each room captures the essence of old world London while being flawlessly à la mode. Wood panelled walls lend themselves to the perfect contrast of crisp whites and calming tones of modern luxuriousness, while an array of amenities make you feel right at home. 

The London Edition is a new generation of luxury with an attainable feel at the heart of exactly what makes London have that London feel. 

10 Berners Street, Fitzrovia, London W1T 3NP, England  //  020 7781 0000  // www.editionhotels.com

Images from The London EDITION

Stay At Soho House Amsterdam

Superbly located amid the Dutch-gable-house-style lined canals in the heart of Amsterdam's city centre, Soho House's latest edition is officially open for business on Spuistraat and is undoubtedly another architecturally successful venture for the members club brand which prides itself on an impressive portfolio of houses around the world. Housed in a six-storey, 'monumental' (listed) 1930's Bungehuis that is as strikingly sturdy as it is imposingly powerful, the house features 79 hotel rooms, the brand's infamous screening rooms, a gym, HIIT and yoga studios, a Cecconi's restaurant and a Cowshed Spa (both of which will open this coming September).

Design director, Linda Boronkay, keeps the tradition of the group's distinctly characteristic interiors well and finely intact with prompts from local landmarks and the building itself. Incorporating new touches such as the wall-lighting, produced by local designers, and contemporary signage which compliments the 1920's tiled floors around the building. Guestrooms possess an art deco feel with an innate sense of the luxuriousness of any of the group's 21 locations. Crowned by the wraparound rooftop which boasts a graceful lap-pool where guests can enjoy days spent on parasol-covered sun loungers bar all which can be enjoyed with panoramic views of the city, Soho House, Amsterdam is perhaps one of this stylish city's best new hotspots.

Soho House is accepting applications for new members now.

www.sohohouseamsterdam.com

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Images from Soho House Amsterdam

Javier Martin's Miami Hotlist

Javier Martin's Miami Hotlist

Favourite way to spend a day alone?

I spend a lot of time in my studio. I don’t just make art but meditate and explore new ideas. Also I enjoy going to the beach at sunset and writing or running. When I’m alone I use the day to refresh and clear my mind.

Favourite cocktail spot?

The Standard Hotel as they have a beautiful view of the beach. It’s an amazing place to enjoy a cocktail after a long day and I love to catch the sunset there too. 

Favourite breakfast?

There’s a tiny Cuban cafe right around the corner from me; I go to every morning.

Favourite brunch?

Whatever the sandwich of the day is on at Soho Beach House.

Favourite Dinner?

Cecconis. Always Cecconis.

Favourite Museum?

PAMM.

Favourite Gallery?

Valli Art Gallery.

Favourite Artist?

It's got to be Daniel Arsham.

Favourite Hotel?

I adore staying at The Edition.

Favourite Beach?

The one at Soho Beach House.

Favourite Café?

Henriquetas, they have the best Cuban sandwich and cafecito which is a Cuban take on the espresso shot.

Favourite hidden gem?

Soyka, they have live jazz nights that are absolutely amazing. 

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What to Pack for Miami

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A Winter Weekend in Montreal, France

Planning a trip to the South of France may, as a default, come to mind as something firmly on your summer to-do list but what if the perfect Winter weekend away could be spent elegantly in the magical surrounds and the wonderfully French backdrop of Montréal, tucked away at Camellas-Lloret at the beginning of December. 

With a short three nights and four days to spare, my Love and I set off on a romantic weekend together that saw us fly into Carcassonne airport from Dublin. Direct flights with Ryanair are irresistibly inexpensive in the off-season months. What took us there? Well, it was almost two years ago that I found a dreamy hotel on Instagram and ever since I just knew it was a place my soul absolutely needed to experience in this lifetime. I was prepared for Camellas-Lloret being a wonderful little haven but in all honesty, it is even dreamier in real-life than I could ever have anticipated (and my oh my the dreaminess is off the charts on their wonderfully curated Instagram account).

Set in the medieval hilltop village of Montréal in the Languedoc region, Camellas-Lloret, is the epitome of what one would imagine everything to be in the South of France (this was our first ever visit), refined yet rustic, touchable yet otherworldly beautiful. A ‘love-project’ of a beautiful couple Annie (a New Yorker) and Colin (from South Africa) Moore, the 18th-century house boasts the most incredible, authentic original structure. With five uniquely designed bedrooms, a simple but beautiful walled garden, the enticing greenhouse which plays home to the lemons and mandarins that make their way to the tables each morning for breakfast in the form of Annie’s marmalade and a terrace perfectly fit for summer evenings dripping in rosé, the place is so divine that you could spend a month and never leave. 

Annie, an interior designer and someone whom I think I'd like to be the I grow up (she’s great at everything from wonderful chats, marmalade making, baking, photography, cooking and just generally being fabulous) - is from New York and has designed the house to feel like ‘home’. White-washed walls and draping vintage linens, contrasting textures with original chandeliers and old-world sculptures are met with the chicest of the chic modern touches throughout. With furniture slipcovers, the perfect kind of magazine stacks and all the buildings original pine flooring, it is founded on authentically refined French elegance along with the toppings of a truly talented interior designer and is exactly where one finds peace and space to relax, surrounded by the kind of beauty found only in the South of France. 

Colin is fantastic with kindly helping guests plan out their days if you are set on exploring the areas around Montréal. His suggested routes guided us to wonderful cafes, tapas bars, museums, the local castle and a beautiful little village nearby famous for its bookstores. All in all, winter weekends at Camellas-Lloret are all about long lie-ins as the sun beams through the shutters, afternoon strolls exploring the beautiful countryside, followed by a glass of white beside the crackling fire, which is where we spend our evenings reading, all cosied up catching up on our favourite books and enjoying wonderful conversations with Annie and Colin. 

Whether you visit in summer or winter, find yourself there for a night or a month, it is a haven that re-ignites the soul and leaves you wondering how you’ll ever leave. 

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LOCATION

Montréal, France just a 10/15 minute drive from Carcassonne Airport or one hour from Toulouse

RATES

Starting from €140 per room per night

WHAT TO DO & SEE

Incredible local antique/vintage shopping

Get lost in the surroundings of the Cathar castles

Book in for a body and attitude balancing session with Colin who is a world-renowned doctor of Chiropractic and a wellness coach

Head off for afternoon bike rides by the Canal du Midi

(In summer) Spend your days on beautiful Mediterranean beaches

Spend time relaxing at the house with a book and rosé (all day)

Organise a wine tasting and visit near-by vineyards

TIPS

Renting a car is essential to explore the surrounding towns and villages

Families are very welcome but really the property is much more oriented toward and appreciated by adults

TO BOOK

You can contact Annie directly at annie@camellaslloret.com

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To book, you can contact Annie directly at annie@camellaslloret.com