Amazing Destinations 51 Spectacular fireworks at The Magic Kingdom.
Magic Kingdom: It has often been said that the true essence of Disney magic can be experienced simply by stepping foot inside the Magic Kingdom. Opened in 1971, the venerable theme park has withstood decades of changing cultures, a constantly shifting social climate, and an explosion of technology that has left lesser places outdated and obsolete. Yet, somehow, the Magic Kingdom continues to remain the undisputed king of theme parks, drawing more yearly visitors than any other. If you envision Cinderella’s castle when you think of Disney, this is one of the parks that you won’t want to miss! Magic Kingdom is home to all of the classic attractions — the castle, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Main Street USA, Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Splash Mountain, and more! Animal Kingdom: Animal Kingdom’s 500 acres are home to some 1,700 animals representing 250 different species throughout the park. A ride on the Kilimanjaro Safari will give you a chance to see many of them as they take you through the African Savannah. There’s plenty of other adventures to be had too including the thrilling Expedition Everest rollercoaster and a Dinosaur dark ride that has you travelling back in time and escaping a marauding T-rex. This is also the perfect place for all Avatar fans where you’ll find popular attractions like The Na’vi River Journey and the infamous steamed burger pods at Satu’l Canteen. But the highlight is the truly breathtaking Avatar Flight of Passage, one of the greatest theme park simulators in the world. As the Park’s perennial icon, the Tree of Life is truly a work of art in the best Disney tradition. At 145 ft, this 14 story artificial tree has the images of more than 300 animals hand-carved into its trunk. The base of the Tree of Life is home to the 3D film It’s Tough to be a Bug. All photos © Disney Dumbo The Flying Elephant, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Under The Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid all at The Magic Kingdom. Kilimanjaro Safaris, Avatar Flight of Passage and The Tree of Life all at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Epcot: Want to explore the world, Disney World style? Epcot will be one of your favorites. Here you can literally travel around the globe — tasting delicacies from 11 different countries! Think Germany, France, Italy, and more. You’ll also be able to enjoy rides that take you into the sea with Nemo and all the way to space! For those of you with Frozen fans in the family, you’ll also want to stop by to check out Frozen Ever After (a musical boat ride through the enchanted world of Arendelle). Epcot is also home to the thrilling Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind which blasts off into the galaxy on a fun rollercoaster that’s different every single time you ride, thanks to the ride’s rotating soundtrack. Hollywood Studios: Star Wars fan? Hollywood Studios is an absolute must for your upcoming Disney World vacation. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is just about as immersive of a land as you can create and nothing quite prepares you for seeing a full size Millenium Falcon. From the attractions like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance to the shops to the dining, when guests visit Batuu they find themselves transported deep into the land and lore of Star Wars. We even got to fulfil the dream of a lifetime by building our own light sabres at Savi’s Workshop. Plus, there’s also Toy Story Land, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith and many other immersive experiences located within Hollywood Studios. Be sure to ride the recently opened and wonderfully colourful Micky & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. All photos © Disney Test Track, Soarin’ Around the World and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure all at EPCOT. Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster® Starring Aerosmith and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway all at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Dole Whip — Aloha Isle Creamy, tangy, and perfectly refreshing on a hot Florida day, this pineapple soft serve (served in a cup or in a pineapple juice float) is an iconic Disney World snack, offered at a few locations around Walt Disney World Resort, including Magic Kingdom’s Aloha Isle. Mickey Pretzel — Multiple Locations Mickey pretzels are one of many mouse-shaped foods you’ll find around the theme parks. The adorable pretzel is served with a salty cheese dip, perfect for a mid-afternoon snack. Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar — Multiple Locations If you have a sweet tooth, pick up a Mickey-shaped ice cream bar (with vanilla ice cream dipped in chocolate) at one of the many snack stands around the resort. Lunch Box Tart — Woody’s Lunch Box Woody’s Lunch Box is an all-day dining favorite in Hollywood Studios’ Toy Story-themed land. The Lunch Box Tarts look (and taste) like elevated Pop-Tarts. Keep an eye out for seasonal flavors, especially during the holidays. Satu’li Canteen All the goodness of a cheeseburger served in a soft bao bun — what could be better? The pod has ground beef with ketchup, mustard, pickle, and cheddar cheese mixed into one delicious bite. Beef and Chicken Bowls — Satu’li Canteen This quick-service Animal Kingdom eatery is the perfect place to stop for a flavorful and fresh lunch. While the beef is a tasty option, you can opt for chicken, shrimp, or tofu in your bowl, served with veggie slaw and your choice of a base and sauce. DINING Going to the “Most Magical Place on Earth” isn’t just about trying the rides and hugging Mickey. It’s an experience for all five senses, and with so many options, you might have a hard time choosing where to eat between attractions. Each park has high quality signature dining restaurants which you make reservations for through the app before and during your visit. But on the casual side, if you want something other than hamburgers, chicken nuggets, and turkey legs, you’ll be glad to know that there are many great food options to choose from at Walt Disney World. Here’s our top choices for snacks on the go across the parks. All photos © Antelope Media Solutions
Booking There are currently 2 steps for securing your tickets and reservations at Disney World. First, you must have a valid park ticket and then make a reservation for each ticket. Reservations are limited and subject to availability, which means it’s a good idea to make sure your desired theme park is available before purchasing your ticket. You’ll find a calendar on Disney’s website that will show you what parks still are available on any given day. The sooner you have your tickets and link them in the My Disney Experience app, the sooner you can book your Disney Park days. Currently, Disney offers a 14-day Magic ticket for the price of seven days. This gives you access to all the theme and water parks, allows park-hopping between locations and includes their Memory maker package. Visit disneyholiday.co.uk for the latest offers. My Disney Experience Before your visit, you will want to download the free My Disney Experience App. You can use this to link tickets and create profiles for your family. It provides access in the palm of your hand to using the Genie+ and lightning lane system, wait times, dining, entertainment information, and so much more. Whilst it can be a bit tricky to set up, its ultimately easy to use and it will be a lifesaver during your visit. Where To Stay The Walt Disney World Resort covers a whopping 25,000 acres of land. So, when planning a visit, you will want to take the time to decide where to stay carefully. The on-site Walt Disney World Resort hotels cater for most price points and naturally offer better access to the Disney theme parks and transportation options. Our favourites include the Walt Disney World Dolphin, Disney’s Polynesian Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. In addition to the on-site options, there are hundreds of hotels and resorts around the Disney Resort and throughout Orlando. Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Thanks to: Disney Destinations International UK & Ireland for their help and assistance with this trip. Photos: All photos © Disney.. All Rights Reserved,
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS: TOP FIVE 1. Harry Potter And The Escape From Gringotts Harry Potter Fans and budding young Wizards can’t miss this ride in Diagon Alley. A multi-dimensional experience located right under the fire-breathing dragon, this ride will thrust any young rider into their Hogwarts fantasy to battle Voldemort in a scene straight out of the movies. 2. Revenge Of The Mummy: The Ride If you aren’t afraid of a bit of spook, you may want to check out one of the best thrill rides at Universal Studios. This recently refurbished experience zooms you around at speeds of 45 mph while surrounded by darkness. Just don’t be surprised if you find some creatures lurking around with you. 3. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Not for the faint of heart, this ride is another for thrill seekers and diehard rock-n-roll fans! After selecting your soundtrack, this ride will plummet you from the air at a 90-degree angle as you jam to your favourite tunes. We’ve been taking family trips to Universal Orlando Resort for over twenty years and discover something new every time. One of the advantages of the resort is how expansive the parks are; it’s impossible to see it all on just one trip. After all, there are 3 (soon to be 4) separate parks to discover during your time visiting the resort. The one you might be most familiar with is Universal Studios — which is based on movies, TV shows, and pop culture. Universal’s Island of Adventure is aimed toward thrill seekers who want to ride exhilarating rollercoasters and is home to your favourite comic book superheroes. There’s also Volcano Bay (the themed water park), and the 4th park is currently under construction. It will be called Universal’s Epic Universe and is scheduled to open by summer 2025. So, how do you make the most of your visit to Universal, read on to discover a list of our favourite attraction’s and rides at Universal Orlando. Trust us; you don’t want to miss out on these! Universal Orlando Resort is packed with incredible and thrilling experiences for the entire family including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Springfield, U.S.A., home of The Simpsons and Jurassic World. 1 2 3 Universal Orlando Resort HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. J.K. ROWLING`S WIZARDING WORLD™ J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s18). All photos © Universal Studios. All Rights Reversed.
Amazing Destinations 57 The iconic Universal globe at the entrance to Universal Studios Florida Photo: © Universal Studios. All Rights Reversed.
58 Amazing Destinations 4. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem Have you secretly always dreamed of being one of Gru’s minions? No judgment, who can resist the Minion madness! This motion simulator ride will take you on your minion adventures, complete with chaos and a few laughs along the way. And if you can’t get enough of these little yellow guys, Universal have just announced that a brand new ‘Minion Land’ is opening At Universal Studios Florida in August, featuring tons of Minionrelated offerings like themed food locations, character meet-andgreets, and a brand-new attraction! 5. TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D Packed with battling bots, a high-stakes mission, and crazy special effects, this ride is the essence of what Universal Studios Orlando strives for — to make you a part of your favorite movie. You’ll find yourself right alongside Optimus Prime and Bumblebee, battling to keep precious cargo out of enemy hands. Delightfully immersive, you’ll feel like you’re really rocketing through the city as Autobots and Decepticons duke it out all around you. It’s hard to believe it’s not a roller coaster track — just amazing motion simulation! 4 5 © 2018 Hasbro. © 2018 DW Studios L.L.C. and Paramount Pictures Corporation. All rights reserved. Licensed by Hasbro. © Uniersal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
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60 Amazing Destinations As America’s First Resort Destination® , The Palm Beaches have been the preferred getaway for discerning guests for over 125 years. From Jupiter to Boca Raton, discover sun-kissed beaches, alfresco dining, premier golf courses and world-class shopping. Less crowded and more relaxed, the gentler side of Florida awaits. | ThePalmBeaches.com THE GOLDEN AGE OF TRAVEL IS BACK IN THE PALM BEACHES
ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE: TOP FIVE 1. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is a dark ride located within the stunning recreation of Hogwarts Castle in Hogsmeade and puts you in the middle of a quidditch match gone wrong. It’s no surprise that Forbidden Journey is one of the most popular rides in all of Islands of Adventure and arguably one of the best rides in any Orlando theme park. 2. Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Part of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, this ride is a rollercoaster with tons of twists and turns! If you have a parkto-park ticket and will be exploring both worlds or are visiting Island of Adventure for the day, this is a must-do for anyone over 48 inches tall. 3. The Amazing Adventures Of Spider-Man Perhaps one of the most iconic rides in Universal Orlando and our all-time favourite, this motion simulator acquaints you with your friendly neighbourhood Spider-man and lets you fly through the streets of New York City. Keep an eye out for the various appearances of the characters creator and Marvel legend, Stan Lee. 4. The Incredible Hulk Coaster Another ride for the thrill seekers in your group - this highspeed coaster goes up to 67 mph and propels you through the air, resulting in an upside-down hang. Check out this ride if you want to see Universal from an entirely new angle. 1 2 3 4 HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. J.K. ROWLING`S WIZARDING WORLD™ J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s18) All photos © Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
62 Amazing Destinations 5. Jurassic World Velocicoaster This recently opened coaster in Orlando isn’t just known for its speed, stunning views, and ability to thrust you into a new era. The exhilarating fan-favourite film comes to life in a multi-sensory adventure. If you’re an adrenaline junkie who loves rollercoasters, this unquestionably should go to the top of your Orlando theme park favourites. Special Mention: Hogwarts Express: King’s Cross Station Another must-see for Potterheads is the Hogwarts Express! Standing on the platform, you’ll feel like you’re about to leave for your first year at Hogwarts yourself. In reality, this train will take you from park to park. Just remember that entry into Universal Studios will allow you into Diagon Alley, but you will need a park-to-park ticket to experience this ride. 5 HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. J.K. ROWLING`S WIZARDING WORLD™ J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s18) All photos © Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Amazing Destinations 63
64 Amazing Destinations Photos: © Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Amazing Destinations 65 VOLCANO BAY: TOP FIVE Universal Orlando’s water park, Volcano Bay, is just what’s needed to beat the Florida heat. There are more than 20 water slides and several pools to cool off in at this expansive water theme park including everything from 125-foot-tall trapdoor slides to chilled out lazy rivers. Make sure to carve out a day of your Orlando holiday to spend splashing around Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando. Here are the five rides you absolutely cannot miss. 1. Ko’okiri Body Plunge™ Our top pick is a real thrill. Brace yourself for a 70-degree fall down a 125-foot slide that starts with a trapdoor dropping you right through the center of the volcano. Scream your lungs out as you make your way down the near vertical drop before the Ko’okiri Body Plunge sends you screaming into a clear sided pool of onlookers. There is no other ride for a better lung workout than the Ko’okiri Body Plunge. 2. Honu ika Moana™ You have two slides to choose from, Honu or ika Moana. Honu is for those looking to scream more, fly faster and go higher. Start with ika Moana, which is slightly tamer, and work your way up to Honu. Sweep up the massive walls in a four-passenger raft (Honu) or five-person raft (ika Moana), twisting and turning your way down to the bottom. Not only is this one of our favorite rides at Volcano Bay, but you no longer have to carry your own raft/ tubes to the top. The rafts are brought up for you! 3. Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides™ Maku means wet and Puihi means wild and that is exactly what this ride is! Enter a lava tube path on a six-person raft as you make your way through the volcano and start spinning uncontrollably. Next thing you know, you’ll be hit with geyser blasts before shooting out into the pool! 4. Krakatau™ Aqua Coaster Krakatau is like no other water slide at Volcano Bay; rather than a raft, you board a four-person canoe. The canoes twist their way through a dark volcano before plunging through a waterfall. 5. Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slide™ Lie down on your back and twist your way through this drop slide before being shot out into the pool. There are two slides to choose from: Ohyah, which lunges you out 4 feet above the pool, and Ohno, whose 6-foot drop is perfect for those looking for a little more height. 1 23 4 5
66 Amazing Destinations 110 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.MARRIOTT.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.MARRIOTT.COM 110 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.MARRIOTT.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.MARRIOTT.COM
Amazing Destinations 67 Set on 164 sprawling acres complete with a large lake, the Marriott Grande Vista is an Orlando resort tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks, shopping and restaurants, yet with easy reach of them all. With multiple pools, great dining options, family activities and a full service spa, this could offer you the ultimate Florida vacation. MARRIOTT'S GRANDE VISTA AVENIDA,ORLANDO “ Our verdict Marriott's Grande Vista resort secluded in a lush setting, feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando’s theme parks, but everything you need is within easy reach. Wellequipped villas are located on the shores of a picturesque lake, and it has a 9-hole golf course on site. Excellent facilities include four swimming pools, three restaurants, children's activities, a gym and wellness spa. It could well be the perfect base for your visit to Orlando. ” Marriott’s Grande Vista Resort is Marriott Vacation Club International’s largest resort with 900 villas available to own or rent. Sink your toes into the sand at the lakeside beach, or stroll around the property on the boardwalk, stopping to enjoy a drink at the outdoor bar, of course. But that's not all Marriott's Grande Vista has to offer – adults can try a game of golf at the adjacent course or pamper themselves at The Spa whilst there are plenty of activities for the kids. There are four outdoor heated pools at Grande Vista, and we spoke to families who had trouble pulling their kids away from these to go to Disney or Universal, they are that nice. But while there are amazing things to do at the resort, the real magic lies in the location. Marriott’s Grande Vista is truly in the centre of everything in Orlando with Disney, Universal, International Drive and SeaWorld all just a short drive away. ROOMS Smart one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom villas invite you to relax in style after long Orlando days. Separate living and dining areas and a fully equipped kitchen plus kitchen bar with counter seating offer more than enough room to spread out and relax. Flat-screen televisions with digital programming are perfect for wrapping up the day with a movie night. The master suite also boasts a king-size bed and oversize soaking tub, as well as a separate shower. FOOD The Grill serves high quality breakfast, lunch and dinner and features a full bar. There’s a pool bar and restaurant where you can get informal fare like grab burgers, salads and pizza and our favourite, the Marketplace store and deli where you can grab a range of hot and cold items to go including beer, wine, sandwiches and ice creams. Set on 164 sprawling acres complete with a large lake, the Marriott Grande Vista is an Orlando resort tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks, shopping and restaurants, yet with easy reach of them all. With multiple pools, great dining options, family activities and a full service spa, this could offer you the ultimate Florida vacation. MARRIOTT'S GRANDE VISTA AVENIDA,ORLANDO “ Our verdict Marriott's Grande Vista resort secluded in a lush setting, feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando’s theme parks, but everything you need is within easy reach. Wellequipped villas are located on the shores of a picturesque lake, and it has a 9-hole golf course on site. Excellent facilities include four swimming pools, three restaurants, children's activities, a gym and wellness spa. It could well be the perfect base for your visit to Orlando. ” Marriott’s Grande Vista Resort is Marriott Vacation Club International’s largest resort with 900 villas available to own or rent. Sink your toes into the sand at the lakeside beach, or stroll around the property on the boardwalk, stopping to enjoy a drink at the outdoor bar, of course. But that's not all Marriott's Grande Vista has to offer – adults can try a game of golf at the adjacent course or pamper themselves at The Spa whilst there are plenty of activities for the kids. There are four outdoor heated pools at Grande Vista, and we spoke to families who had trouble pulling their kids away from these to go to Disney or Universal, they are that nice. But while there are amazing things to do at the resort, the real magic lies in the location. Marriott’s Grande Vista is truly in the centre of everything in Orlando with Disney, Universal, International Drive and SeaWorld all just a short drive away. ROOMS Smart one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom villas invite you to relax in style after long Orlando days. Separate living and dining areas and a fully equipped kitchen plus kitchen bar with counter seating offer more than enough room to spread out and relax. Flat-screen televisions with digital programming are perfect for wrapping up the day with a movie night. The master suite also boasts a king-size bed and oversize soaking tub, as well as a separate shower. FOOD The Grill serves high quality breakfast, lunch and dinner and features a full bar. There’s a pool bar and restaurant where you can get informal fare like grab burgers, salads and pizza and our favourite, the Marketplace store and deli where you can grab a range of hot and cold items to go including beer, wine, sandwiches and ice creams.
68 Amazing Destinations 110 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.ROSENCENTRE.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: WWW.ROSENCENTRE.COM
Amazing Destinations 69 Located on the famous International Drive, the Rosen Centre Hotel is at the centre Orlando's famous theme parks. Just 12 minutes from Orlando International Airp and a short stroll from the Pointe Orlando shopping, dining and entertainment complex, it’s a perfect choice for your family visit to Orlando. ROSEN CENTRE INTERNATIONAL DRIVE, ORLA “ Our verdic With an unbeatable, central location clo shopping and all the famous theme park CentreHotelputsyouinthecentreofit Rosen Centre Hotel has a great location on International Drive. A 10- minute ride on the shuttle bus gets you to Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld. Walt Disney World is within easy reach, a 15 minute drive away. The hotel is huge with a lobby that plays host to a coffee shop, a bar, a restaurant, a 24-hour convenience store, concierge and first rate valet parking service. It is impossible to get bored at the Rosen Centre Hotel. The hotel pool area is accessed through the lobby and has plenty of sun beds and towels are provided. The pool itself is large and there’s also a small jacuzzi and outdoor serving hatch for those all-important cocktails. For the days you wish to avoid the parks and relax, head to the hotel’s spa where you can get various treatments and massages as well as enjoy the 24-hour fitness centre. ROOMS Make yourself at home in one of the 1334 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. High speed WiFi keeps you connected, and a range of programming is available to keep the kids entertained. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries. Like everything in the hotel our suite was huge, furnished to a high level and perfect for a large family or group. FOOD Grab a bite to eat at one of the resort's 7 restaurants or stay in and take advantage of the room service which can be a life saver when arriving back late from the theme parks. Breakfast is of the buffet variety and is plentiful with a range of hot and cold options. We dined Al Fresco in Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill which offers a Caribbean-Cuban infused menu and looks out to a pool deck lined with palm trees. After a round of wonderfully crafted cocktails we were treated to a variety of dishes including Conch Fritters, Coconut Shrimp, Ropa Vieja and Mahi Mahi Wrapped in Banana Leaves. Everything was delicious but luckily, we saved some room for the heavenly Chocolate Cinnamon Bread Pudding. ” Located on the famous International Drive, the Rosen Centre Hotel is at the centre of Orlando's famous theme parks. Just 12 minutes from Orlando International Airport and a short stroll from the Pointe Orlando shopping, dining and entertainment complex, it’s a perfect choice for your family visit to Orlando. ROSEN CENTRE INTERNATIONAL DRIVE, ORLANDO “ Our verdict With an unbeatable, central location close to incredible dining, shopping and all the famous theme parks, the stylish Rosen Centre Hotel puts you in the centre of it all. First class service, a huge pool and great dining options make this a fabulous choice for your Orlando adventure. Rosen Centre Hotel has a great location on International Drive. A 10- minute ride on the shuttle bus gets you to Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld. Walt Disney World is within easy reach, a 15 minute drive away. The hotel is huge with a lobby that plays host to a coffee shop, a bar, a restaurant, a 24-hour convenience store, concierge and first rate valet parking service. It is impossible to get bored at the Rosen Centre Hotel. The hotel pool area is accessed through the lobby and has plenty of sun beds and towels are provided. The pool itself is large and there’s also a small jacuzzi and outdoor serving hatch for those all-important cocktails. For the days you wish to avoid the parks and relax, head to the hotel’s spa where you can get various treatments and massages as well as enjoy the 24-hour fitness centre. ROOMS Make yourself at home in one of the 1334 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. High speed WiFi keeps you connected, and a range of programming is available to keep the kids entertained. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries. Like everything in the hotel our suite was huge, furnished to a high level and perfect for a large family or group. FOOD Grab a bite to eat at one of the resort's 7 restaurants or stay in and take advantage of the room service which can be a life saver when arriving back late from the theme parks. Breakfast is of the buffet variety and is plentiful with a range of hot and cold options. We dined Al Fresco in Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill which offers a Caribbean-Cuban infused menu and looks out to a pool deck lined with palm trees. After a round of wonderfully crafted cocktails we were treated to a variety of dishes including Conch Fritters, Coconut Shrimp, Ropa Vieja and Mahi Mahi Wrapped in Banana Leaves. Everything was delicious but luckily, we saved some room for the heavenly Chocolate Cinnamon Bread Pudding.
70 Amazing Destinations 6 recommended Dining options at Disney Springs & Universal CitiWalk BE OUR GUEST! Disney Springs and Universal CitiWalk have a delicious concentration of dining options, from snack kiosks to quick service to Signature-level table service from acclaimed chefs. This density of deliciousness makes choosing a restaurant pretty difficult. Here are six top choices from those we visited on our last trip to Orlando. By Martin Mason
Amazing Destinations 71
72 Amazing Destinations VisitTampaBay.com With award-winning local cuisine, craft beer and cocktails, Tampa Bay is a laid-back getaway to savour.
Amazing Destinations 73 110 THE BOATHOUSE DISNEY SPRINGS With working boats hanging on the walls and engines and oars displayed as though part of an art exhibit, you can sit right on the water and take in the breeze at The Boathouse, and you’re pretty much guaranteed to have a great time. Having cocktails in this impressive space is an experience unto itself, even before the restaurant's signature seafood dishes start to arrive. And once they do? The food is pretty great, too—especially if you’re a seafood fan. Between the Yellowfin Tuna Poke with mango, and the Dockside Shrimp Boil, which is chock-full of corn, red potatoes, Andouille sausage and its star ingredient of shrimp, this is one place you definitely won't leave hungry. You can also go all out with a classic surf and turf of filet mignon and lobster tail. Additionally, the restaurant has cute boats called ‘Amphicars’ which are available for rent and see a driver escort you on a tour around the Disney Springs Lake. Genre: American Recommended for: The best seafood in the Disney World area. Book: boathouseorlando.com HARD ROCK CAFE UNIVERSAL CITYWALK Chances are, many of you will have been to a Hard Rock somewhere but not one like this because the infamous rock n’ roll themed restaurant here is the largest Hard Rock in the world. Designed to look like a Roman Colosseum, this is the brand at its best, where non-stop music videos play throughout the restaurant, and the walls are adorned with lots of rock memorabilia including rare artifacts from some of the world’s most popular bands. There’s a huge bar with a pink Cadillac rotating above whilst you work out which of the legendary cocktails you want to knock back. Starters include your standards like buffollo wings, chicken tenders and a sampler platter as well as a few pretty good salads. Our sharing nachos arrived piled high with chicken, cheese, refried beans, and pico de gallo and were just the ticket after a busy day walking the parks. Mains include a wide variety of American classics, including burgers, sandwiches, fajitas, ribs and salads. Everything we had was good and the service was friendly and fun. Be sure to have walk around the restaurant after your meal to look at all of the amazing memorabilia from rockstars such as Michael Jackson, Elvis, the Beatles and so many more. Genre: American Recommended for: Groups, large portions and a super atmosphere. We dare you not to have a great time. Book: hardrockcafe.com/location/orlando
74 Amazing Destinations 110 THE BOATHOUSE DISNEY SPRINGS With working boats hanging on the walls and engines and oars displayed as though part of an art exhibit, you can sit right on the water and take in the breeze at The Boathouse, and you’re pretty much guaranteed to have a great time. Having cocktails in this impressive space is an experience unto itself, even before the restaurant's signature seafood dishes start to arrive. And once they do? The food is pretty great, too—especially if you’re a seafood fan. Between the Yellowfin Tuna Poke with mango, and the Dockside Shrimp Boil, which is chock-full of corn, red potatoes, Andouille sausage and its star ingredient of shrimp, this is one place you definitely won't leave hungry. You can also go all out with a classic surf and turf of filet mignon and lobster tail. Additionally, the restaurant has cute boats called ‘Amphicars’ which are available for rent and see a driver escort you on a tour around the Disney Springs Lake. Genre: American Recommended for: The best seafood in the Disney World area. Book: boathouseorlando.com HARD ROCK CAFE UNIVERSAL CITYWALK Chances are, many of you will have been to a Hard Rock somewhere but not one like this because the infamous rock n’ roll themed restaurant here is the largest Hard Rock in the world. Designed to look like a Roman Colosseum, this is the brand at its best, where non-stop music videos play throughout the restaurant, and the walls are adorned with lots of rock memorabilia including rare artifacts from some of the world’s most popular bands. There’s a huge bar with a pink Cadillac rotating above whilst you work out which of the legendary cocktails you want to knock back. Starters include your standards like buffollo wings, chicken tenders and a sampler platter as well as a few pretty good salads. Our sharing nachos arrived piled high with chicken, cheese, refried beans, and pico de gallo and were just the ticket after a busy day walking the parks. Mains include a wide variety of American classics, including burgers, sandwiches, fajitas, ribs and salads. Everything we had was good and the service was friendly and fun. Be sure to have walk around the restaurant after your meal to look at all of the amazing memorabilia from rockstars such as Michael Jackson, Elvis, the Beatles and so many more. Genre: American Recommended for: Groups, large portions and a super atmosphere. We dare you not to have a great time. Book: hardrockcafe.com/location/orlando
Amazing Destinations 75 WOLFGANG PUCK BAR & GRILL DISNEY SPRINGS If you are leaning toward Italian cuisine, Wolfgang Puck’s is more than likely where you’ll want to secure a reservation whilst at Disney Springs. Fans of this celebrity chef will surely enjoy a meal here with a menu that boasts California cuisine with Mediterranean influences. You’ll find items like calamari, pizza, pasta, steak, and seafood here in an open and stylish environment that’s more akin to Santa Monica or Beverly Hills than Orlando. We kicked things off with a round of crafted cocktails that included one of the best Old fashioned’s we’ve ever tasted, made with a house blend of bourbon and rye and demerara sugar you have to give this one a try. The food was not far behind, and we were given a variety of dishes that were all delicious including a starter of Truffled Potato Chips, with blue cheese sauce and chives that was just way too large for an appetizer, but far too tasty not to stop eating. Highlights amongst the mains was four cheese tortellini with meatballs and intriguing pizzas which included the Bianca with goat cheese, ricotta, potato, castelvetrano salsa Verde, and rosemary. Now no meal is complete without dessert and the layered cake here was to die for. Accompanied with raspberries, chocolate gelato, chocolate sauce the flavour was perfect, and the size was demanded it be shared. Genre: Italian/Californian Recommended for: High quality food, excellent service and great ambiance. And don’t forget those cocktails. Book: wolfgangpuck.com/dining/orlando-bar-grill STK STEAKHOUSE, ORLANDO DISNEY SPRINGS STK is a high-end steakhouse chain reknown for offering a dynamic dining experience and a buzzy atmosphere across all of their US and UK venues. We’re happy to report that STK Orlando is no different, they offer some of the best steaks in Orlando and it’s well worth the visit when you are in the Disney Springs area. For steak fans, this is seriod business with cuts like Bone-In Filet and more complex profiles, like Japanese A5 Strip Wagyu and Dry-Aged Porterhouse—all cooked to perfection. Decadent truffle sauce, Roasted Lamb Rack, King Crab Oscar and Lobster Tail are also on the menu for those who prefer something other than the beef. The circular, wooden dining tables, padded booths and low lighting let you know you’re in a fine-dining establishment, and elevated drinks, like the Dirty Pearls (STK’s Ketel One dirty martini, complete with blue cheese olives); Strawberry Cobbler (a muddled strawberry delight with Graham cracker crust); pretty much seal the deal. and Spiced Watermelon (Patron, watermelon water, St. Germain and fresh lime and jalapeño) seal the deal. Genre: American Recommended for: Those steaks of course but also one of the very best fine dining options at Disney Springs. Book: stksteakhouse.com
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Amazing Destinations 77 NINE STATES. A THOUSAND BRAGGING RIGHTS. Know your BBQ? Know your slaw from chow-chow? Better get your notebook and your tastebuds ready. The South isn’t just a place, it’s a collection of fl avours, sights, sounds and traditions. Each unique. Each ready to win you over. PLAN YOUR TRIP @travelsouthusa.com.
78 Amazing Destinations GULF COASTING Asparkling gem on Florida’s Gulf coast, St. Pete/Clearwater has the perfect ingredients for a great Florida holiday: beautiful beaches, vibrant arts, familyfun and a superb food and drink scene.Martin Mason went to experience it for himself. By Martin Mason Clearwater Beach, Florida
Amazing Destinations 79 IN ASSOCIATION WITH Photo: © Antelope Media Solutions.
80 Amazing Destinations Murals in the arts district
Amazing Destinations 81 The impressive duo of St. Pete and Clearwater Beach are two of the USA’s very best beaches. Balmy waters tease white sands along this length of dazzling coastline. But lounging on the sun-drenched shore isn’t the only way to occupy your time. Kayak, jet ski, snorkel, and cruise your way around this panorama of Floridian paradise. And after on-the-water adventures, the shops, restaurants and museums of St. Petersburg aren’t far. Welcome To The Neighbourhood Along these 23 coastal miles, you’ll find a series of towns and communities to explore. The beaches are the main draw, but there’s more to this place than powder sands. Browse the boutiques of Pass-A-Grille. Play pirate-themed mini-golf in Indian Shores. Roll up and down the coast on the beach trolley. Spot dolphins on a cruise around the Gulf. Kayak through wildlife-rich barrier islands or pick up some souvenirs on the pier. The sun’s out all year round here. The weather is best between March and May, but expect more rainfall and higher temperatures during hurricane season, from June to November. Getting there Flying into Tampa is the easiest way to get to St Pete and Clearwater, but another good option is to start in Orlando, where you can enjoy the theme parks for a few days before driving to the beach in under two hours. Miami makes another good pairing at around four and a half hours’ drive away. Or, for a real juxtaposition, hit up New York City before jetting south for sun. St. Pete Beach The city of St. Pete Beach flaunts irresistible white sands, fantastic seafood restaurants, and easy-going beach bars. Hop on the beach trolley to browse the boutiques and galleries of PassA-Grille, before taking a boat excursion from Merry Pier. Drive a little south of St. Pete Beach, and you’ll reach Fort De Soto Park, a series of keys boasting spectacular natural beauty. Or head into the artsy heart of St. Petersburg, where museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants jostle for attention.
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Clearwater Beach Journey 45 minutes north of St. Pete Beach, and you’ll hit Clearwater Beach. The turquoise waters set the scene for watersports of all kinds, from jet skiing to scuba diving. Head to Pier 60 for top-rate fishing and stellar views, but stay for the nightly sunset celebrations when the area comes to life with live music, street performers, and artisan stalls. As the day draws to a close, sip margaritas and dance to live bands at the famous Clearwater Beach Tiki Bar. The Gulp Coast Craft Beer Trail In a sea of destinations offering good craft beer, St. Pete/ Clearwater is truly a stand-out. Here, more than 35 locally owned breweries make up what is called the “Gulp Coast” – an incomparable holiday spot where you can sample the unique creations of talented brewmasters. Murals in the arts district Explore on foot, by bike or scooter to see this amazing collection of murals and street art. You can also download the Pixelstix smartphone app to learn more about each mural. While you’re exploring, be sure to take time to stop in at some of the fabulous studios, cafes and boutiques in the Central Arts District. Photos: Clearwater celebrates its famous ‘Grouper Week’ every July and its Gulp Coast Craft Beer Trail boasts 17 local craft breweries. Where to stay To view the widest range of accommodations for your trip to the gulf coast visit North America by Kuoni, the experts in travel to the USA. Visit www.northamerica.kuoni.co.uk
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86 Amazing Destinations Photo: © Antelope Media Solutions. LAKE COMO Living La Dolce Vita in Picturesque Bellagio All photos © Antelope Media Solutions
Amazing Destinations 87 Often regarded as the most idyllic waterfront destination in all of Italy, the Lake Como area surrounds travellers with fairytale-like views including sparkling waters, lush gardens, and majestic villas covered with ivy, all set against a majestic, mountainous backdrop. By Martin Mason
88 Amazing Destinations Bellagio
Amazing Destinations 89 Nearly 30 miles long and one of the deepest lakes in Europe – 1,350 feet – Lake Como has been heralded as a “Garden of Eden” of sorts for centuries. Its characteristic “Y” shape not only makes this glacier basin recognizable worldwide but also lends a wide variety of views, weather, architecture, and landscape to be experienced along its shores. Located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy, Lake Como is the most renowned lake on the Italian peninsula, despite being the third largest. Though Lake Maggiore and Lake Garda are larger, Lake Como’s status as the most gorgeous and deepest lake in Italy has contributed to its achievement of becoming the country’s most popular and most travelled lake. Fed primarily by the Adda River, its 100 miles of shore feature lush flora, staggering rock formations, unspoiled farmland, and views of the Italian Alps. In terms of weather, Lake Como is categorized as a humid subtropical micro-climate. Due to its location in Northern Italy, expect mild and pleasant temperatures in the spring and summer with colder temperatures in the fall and winter. Rainstorms can occur on summer nights, and snowfall in the winter is not uncommon at higher elevations. This unique climate for the area allows for a variety of vegetation to thrive, including trees such as laurel oak, cypress, evergreen, juniper, spruce, and olive. The lake is known for local production of olive oil on a small scale, namely on the Isle of Comacina, near the lake’s Western arm, which is called Zoca de l’Oli, or “Basin of Oil.” The most characteristic aspect of Lake Como’s climate is its breezes. Travelers will notice an almost constant breeze in the area, occasionally growing into medium or even strong winds. The lake’s position between the Alps and an area known as “preAlps” lends itself to these winds, which are so consistent and steady that local captains, fishermen, and sailors can count on common winds called the Larian Nautics. When visiting the Lake Como area, travellers can get the most out of their time there by exploring the lake’s vast shores and visiting the iconic villas that dot the lake’s edges. One of the best ways to experience the towns and villages alongside the lake is by taking the local ferries and water buses. Cruising across the lake allows visitors to immerse in the local atmosphere as they travel from town to town admiring remarkable villas and impeccable gardens. In order to properly experience the treasures of Lake Como, travellers will want to dedicate at least a few days to leisurely explore the lake by boat. While traveling by boat is the best method of transportation for sightseeing, those who like to drive may enjoy getting lost in the winding roads around the lake and taking in the beautiful scenery. Adreamy paradise, Lake Como’s landscape pairs the manmade and calculated with the wild and natural to create a fusion of manicured gardens set against free-growing vineyards, orchards, and groves. Considered by everyone from scholars to artists to celebrities as a timeless destination – one that evokes an air of old-time authenticity and undeniable beauty – Lake Como attracts tourists from all over the world. While Summer crowds can take away some of the vintage feel, the spirit and character of the area is never diminished. Travelers to Lake Como come for the views of the elegant villas and spectacular nature but stay for the local charm, lakeside restaurants, and romantic atmosphere.
90 Amazing Destinations Bellagio Bellagio is a small jewel located on the promontory that separates the two southern branches of Lake Como, those culminating in the cities of Como and Lecco. It is one of the most glamorous and romantic destinations in Lombardy. In fact, the well-known “Pearl of Lake Como” is home to a colourful historic centre, beautiful gardens (parks of Villa Serbelloni and Villa Melzi), charming neighbourhoods (such as Pescallo or San Giovanni), and much more. Its central location makes Bellagio perfect for visiting beautiful surrounding towns such as Varenna, Tremezzina or Menaggio. The narrow streets of Bellagio are so beautiful that a simple walk is worth the visit. Il Borgo, the name for the centre of Bellagio, is traversed by the main street Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, which is reached by walking up the colourful and lively alleys (here called “Salite“) that start from the lakefront Lungo Lario Manzoni. If you arrive in Bellagio by boat, you will probably reach the centre of Bellagio by going up the alleys Salita Mella or Salita Serbelloni, two of the most photographed and “Instagrammable” alleys in town. The alleys in the town centre are populated by dozens of shops and boutiques where you can find local food, leather goods, clothing, perfumes and more. If you want a list of all available stores, you can find it on the website of Bellagio Lake Como, a local tourist association. The small alleys are full of steps, so it is best to wear a comfortable pair of shoes. Gardens of Villa Serbelloni From the very central Piazza della Chiesa, it is possible to access the vast park of Villa Serbelloni, a true natural park that covers almost the entire promontory of Bellagio for about 21 hectares (approx. 50 acres). Despite its name, the park is not currently connected to the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni. The latter is a luxury 5-star hotel located directly on the waters of the lake, whereas the area that includes the gardens is owned by the Rockefeller Foundation, which here houses a conference and study facility. The garden tour, which can be accessed by reservation through the website of Bellagio Lake Como or at the infopoint in Piazza della Chiesa, will allow you to enjoy unique views of Lake Como and Bellagio areas and to discover the fascinating history of this magical place surrounded by nature.
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92 Amazing Destinations 110 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.VILLASERBELLONI.COM 110 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.VILLASERBELLONI.COM
Amazing Destinations 93 Nestled in the lush, forest covered hills of Italy, on the bank of Lake Como lies the historic and breath-taking Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, one of the oldest and most elegant hotels along the lake area and the only 5-star de-luxe hotel in Bellagio. GRAND HOTEL VILLA SERBELLONI BELLAGIO, LAKE COMO THE GRANDEST OF DAMES Set on the tranquil shores of Lake Como in the medieval town of Bellagio, lies the independent, family run resort Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni. Celebrating its 150th year, this luxurious Grande Dame has been a holiday destination for aristocracy, royalty and celebrities; everyone from President John F. Kennedy to George Lucas has stayed here. American billionaire Steve Wynn came on vacation and fell so in love with Bellagio that when he returned to Las Vegas, he used the name Bellagio for his hotel and casino. FAULTLESS FACILITIES The villa is steeped in Italian history and culture; with its high ceilings, stone balconies and crystal chandeliers, the detail and opulence of this magnificent hotel cannot be overstated. You are immediately aware that this is a very special place. The facilities are faultless with an inviting swimming pool on the lakefront, private beach area, private dock and indoor swimming pool There’s also a fitness centre and a relaxing spa located in the heart of the villa where we enjoyed a wonderful couples massage. Nestled in the lush, forest covered hills of Italy, on the bank of Lake Como lies the historic and breath-taking Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, one of the oldest and most elegant hotels along the lake area and the only 5-star de-luxe hotel in Bellagio. GRAND HOTEL VILLA SERBELLONI BELLAGIO, LAKE COMO THE GRANDEST OF DAMES Set on the tranquil shores of Lake Como in the medieval town of Bellagio, lies the independent, family run resort Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni. Celebrating its 150th year, this luxurious Grande Dame has been a holiday destination for aristocracy, royalty and celebrities; everyone from President John F. Kennedy to George Lucas has stayed here. American billionaire Steve Wynn came on vacation and fell so in love with Bellagio that when he returned to Las Vegas, he used the name Bellagio for his hotel and casino. FAULTLESS FACILITIES The villa is steeped in Italian history and culture; with its high ceilings, stone balconies and crystal chandeliers, the detail and opulence of this magnificent hotel cannot be overstated. You are immediately aware that this is a very special place. The facilities are faultless with an inviting swimming pool on the lakefront, private beach area, private dock and indoor swimming pool There’s also a fitness centre and a relaxing spa located in the heart of the villa where we enjoyed a wonderful couples massage.
www.brabantia.com/make-take Whether for breakfast, lunch or a thirst- quenching drink, Brabantia’s Make & Take collection has the on-the-go solution to take you through your day. From cutlery sets to bento boxes: why not take it with you? TAKE YOUR MOMENT.
ROOMS The rooms are spacious and elegant, with elaborate fittings, high ceilings, chandeliers, and beautiful wooden furniture. All mod cons are featured including air conditioning, minibar, smart TV and good WiFi and the marble bathrooms have double sinks, bathtub and separate shower. But without doubt the highlight of our room was a lake view so gorgeous it genuinely brought a tear to my eye. “ ” Our verdict An opulent and historic villa set in a prime location in Bellagio on the shores of Lake Como. Grand interiors boast antiques, Persian rugs, Murano chandeliers and frescoed ceilings. With excellent restaurants, two pools, a tennis court, and a spa — days. you'll wish for nothing here, except that you can stay a few extra FOOD The hotel has two restaurants and three bars, including the stunning terrace. The formal Mistral headed by executive chef Ettore Bocchia serves sophisticated Italian cuisine with creative takes on Renaissance-era dishes. We dined in the laid back La Golleta restaurant which offers traditional Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Everything we had was fresh, perfectly prepared and delicious. Service was professional, yet friendly and the sommelier’s wine pairing choices were excellent. Just as well, as the cellar has over 400 international labels to choose from.
96 Amazing Destinations 110 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.GRANDHOTELTREMEZZO.COM 110 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.GRANDHOTELTREMEZZO.COM
Amazing Destinations 97 ” Midway down the southwestern arm of Italy’s sublime Lake Como is the town of Tremezzo — just one of many spectacular towns by the water, it’s as stunning as any of them, and is home to something rather impressive: the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. GRAND HOTEL TREMAZZO TREMAZZO, LAKE COMO Established by the Gandola family in 1910, the elegant and glamorous Grand Hotel Tremezzo has been a local icon ever since. Sitting on the western shores of Lake Como with views over to the famous town of Bellagio, the hotel still offers its 5-star service and upholds an old-world charm that somehow makes it look even more beautiful than any of its pictures. With its 100 windows overlooking either the blue waters of the lake or the flowering greenery of the park, the hotel features 75 rooms and 15 suites. There’s a breathtaking array of comforts including 3 swimming pools (one floating on the lake!), a classicstyle lido, private Venetian motor-launches, a wellness spa, tennis court and jogging path. Food There are five different restaurants at Grand Hotel Tremezzo, each unique in its own way and offering a different menu. La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi is the hotel’s famous fine dining restaurant. Located on one of the terraces overlooking the lake it makes for a romantic and special occasion. We dined at L’Escale, the hotel’s trattoria and wine bar, which is a small, cosy restaurant offering traditional dishes. We couldn’t resist going overboard on the starters which included marinated salmon avocado and bao bread, pulled pork tacos with spinach and honey mustard and our favourite, a burrata with cherry tomatoes and anchovies. The mains were equally as impressive; pecorino cheese and black pepper meatballs and lard wrapped pork fillet in a red wine reduction. Wines pairs recommended by the friendly sommelier were excellent and a shared Tiramisu and expresso coffee rounded off an authentic meal and wonderful evening. “ Our verdict Expect old school style and glamour at this five-star Grande Dame hotel, but also first-class service to match. A range of fine dining and relaxed restaurant options includes L’Escale, a laidback hideaway offering traditional Italian favourites and the finest wines, cheeses and meats you could wish for. ” M idway down the southwestern arm of Italy’s sublime Lake Como is the town of Tremezzo — just one of many spectacular towns by the water, it’s as stunning as any of them, and is home to something rather impressive: the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. GRAND HOTEL TREMEZZO TREMEZZO, LAKE COMO Established by the Gandola family in 1910, the elegant and glamorous Grand Hotel Tremezzo has been a local icon ever since. Sitting on the western shores of Lake Como with views over to the famous town of Bellagio, the hotel still offers its 5-star service and upholds an old-world charm that somehow makes it look even more beautiful than any of its pictures. With its 100 windows overlooking either the blue waters of the lake or the flowering greenery of the park, the hotel features 75 rooms and 15 suites. There’s a breathtaking array of comforts including 3 swimming pools (one floating on the lake!), a classicstyle lido, private Venetian motor-launches, a wellness spa, tennis court and jogging path. Food There are five different restaurants at Grand Hotel Tremezzo, each unique in its own way and offering a different menu. La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi is the hotel’s famous fine dining restaurant. Located on one of the terraces overlooking the lake it makes for a romantic and special occasion. We dined at L’Escale, the hotel’s trattoria and wine bar, which is a small, cosy restaurant offering traditional dishes. We couldn’t resist going overboard on the starters which included marinated salmon avocado and bao bread, pulled pork tacos with spinach and honey mustard and our favourite, a burrata with cherry tomatoes and anchovies. The mains were equally as impressive; pecorino cheese and black pepper meatballs and lard wrapped pork fillet in a red wine reduction. Wines pairs recommended by the friendly sommelier were excellent and a shared Tiramisu and expresso coffee rounded off an authentic meal and wonderful evening. “ Our verdict Expect old school style and glamour at this five-star Grande Dame hotel, but also first-class service to match. A range of fine finest wines, cheeses and meats you could wish for. dining and relaxed restaurant options includes L’Escale, a laidback hideaway offering traditional Italian favourites and the
98 Amazing Destinations 110 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.SERENOHOTELS.COM 110 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.SERENOHOTELS.COM
Amazing Destinations 99 I taly’s Lake Como is as glamorous as it is gorgeous, so it’s no surprise that Il Sereno, which opened in 2016, is an exceptionally designed sanctuary of luxury. With a mere 3 suites, the hotel affords guests true privacy and relaxation. By James Glover TORNO, LAKE COMO Open since August 2016, Il Sereno Hotel has fast become one of the most stylish places to stay in all of Europe. Built on the edge of a cliff in Torno, an 18-minute drive from the centre of Como, the hotel has 30 suites, each with its own beautiful lake view. Leading designer Patricia Urquiola is behind the hotel’s impressive architecture and contemporary interiors and the vibe here is modern, hip and stylish. Panoramic views of the lake can be seen from nearly every location, from the secluded gardens to the magnificent infinityedge pool. There’s a gym and spa with a spectacular relaxation room in an old boathouse. The highlight of our visit was a trip in one of the hotel’s Riva boats which are available for guests to rent. A private docking facility allowed us to climb aboard the stylish vessel and set off to star in our own romantic movie. Exploring the lake and viewing the famous villas was a delight and when things got too hot, we cut the engine and took a dip in the crystal clear waters. FOOD In partnership with Milan restaurateur and Michelin-starred chef Andrea Berton, Ristorante Berton al Lago serves creative cuisine inspired by the rich produce of the region. The Lobby Terrace is the perfect place to drink crafted cocktails with stunning views across the lake. We enjoyed a lunch that included cold roasted veal and grilled scallops for starters, a main of homemade spaghetti alla chitarra with lobster and a dreamy dessert of pistachio parfait with wild strawberries and salty pistachios. Everything was perfectly prepared and tasted wonderful. “ Our verdict Situated in Torno on the banks of the lake, Il Sereno luxurious designer suites boasting breathtaking views the terrace enjoying exquisite modern Italian cuisine restaurant or head off on a memorable boat tour and Lake. It’s a beautiful and romantic hotel with outsta levels that should be near the top of your Lake Como ” I taly’s Lake Como is as glamorous as it is gorgeous, so it’s no surprise that Il Sereno, which opened in 2016, is an exceptionally designed sanctuary of luxury. With a mere 30 suites, the hotel affords guests true privacy and relaxation. By James Glover IL SERENO HOTEL TORNO, LAKE COMO Open since August 2016, Il Sereno Hotel has fast become one of the most stylish places to stay in all of Europe. Built on the edge of a cliff in Torno, an 18-minute drive from the centre of Como, the hotel has 30 suites, each with its own beautiful lake view. Leading designer Patricia Urquiola is behind the hotel’s impressive architecture and contemporary interiors and the vibe here is modern, hip and stylish. Panoramic views of the lake can be seen from nearly every location, from the secluded gardens to the magnificent infinityedge pool. There’s a gym and spa with a spectacular relaxation room in an old boathouse. The highlight of our visit was a trip in one of the hotel’s Riva boats which are available for guests to rent. A private docking facility allowed us to climb aboard the stylish vessel and set off to star in our own romantic movie. Exploring the lake and viewing the famous villas was a delight and when things got too hot, we cut the engine and took a dip in the crystal clear waters. FOOD In partnership with Milan restaurateur and Michelin-starred chef Andrea Berton, Ristorante Berton al Lago serves creative cuisine inspired by the rich produce of the region. The Lobby Terrace is the perfect place to drink crafted cocktails with stunning views across the lake. We enjoyed a lunch that included cold roasted veal and grilled scallops for starters, a main of homemade spaghetti alla chitarra with lobster and a dreamy dessert of pistachio parfait with wild strawberries and salty pistachios. Everything was perfectly prepared and tasted wonderful. “ Our verdict Situated in Torno on the banks of the lake, Il Sereno offers luxurious designer suites boasting breathtaking views. Sit out on the terrace enjoying exquisite modern Italian cuisine from the restaurant or head off on a memorable boat tour and explore the Lake. It’s a beautiful and romantic hotel with outstanding service levels that should be near the top of your Lake Como wish list
100 Amazing Destinations Riva is one of the most famous yachting brands in the world, best known for its magnificent boats, which have starred in so many films and introduced the whole world to Italian style, creativity and la dolce vita (the good life) that goes hand in hand with it. By Martin Mason The stunning 1954 Riva Tritone ‘Engfalls II’ VIVA