Solange Berchemin spends 48 hours in Essex dispelling the Essex stereotype

Travel journalist Solange Berchemin shares her experience of spending 48 hours in Essex, England, challenging the common stereotypes associated with the county. She explores various attractions, including the Wivenhoe Trail, Colchester Castle Park, and the Natural History Museum in Colchester. The article highlights Essex's history, from gin smuggling to its transformation into a prime English wine territory, exemplified by New Hall Wine Estate. Berchemin also visits Wilkin & Sons ltd – Tiptree, known for their sustainable fruit farming and jam production. The trip includes a planned but canceled bird cruise in Brightlingsea and a thwarted visit to Mersea Island due to flooding. Accommodations are discussed, with a stay at the hospitable Flag Inn. The article concludes that 48 hours is insufficient to fully appreciate Essex's diversity.

Mackerel And Beetroot, Horseradish & Watercress

The article provides a culinary guide on preparing a beetroot dish with horseradish crème fraîche. It emphasizes achieving the right consistency, which should be buttery and not too dry or wet, and the importance of the dish's vibrant purple color. The article suggests adjusting the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste and mentions reserving any remaining crème fraîche mixture in the fridge.

Solange Berchemin channels her inner Bridgerton as she stays at Bath’s Bailbrook House Hotel

Solange Berchemin reviews her experience at the Bailbrook House Hotel in Bath, a location featured in Netflix's series Bridgerton. The hotel, part of the Hand-Picked Hotels group, offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Berchemin describes the elegant Georgian architecture, the luxurious John Wood Suite, and the hotel's dog-friendly policy. She praises the hotel's restaurant, The Cloisters, for its two AA Rosette award and inventive dishes created by Head Chef Michael Ball and his team. Despite a minor complaint about calorie listings on the menu, Berchemin's stay was enjoyable, and she highlights the hotel's potential to please even Queen Charlotte with its service and culinary excellence.

A Review of Sandy Balls New Forest Camping

Solange Berchemin reviews her experience at Sandy Balls New Forest Camping, a site with a rich history owned by the Westlake family since its purchase in 1919 by Ernest Westlake. The campsite offers a variety of accommodations including luxurious log cabins, static caravan holiday homes, tents, and new camping wooden pods. Berchemin recounts her relief at the solid construction of the cabins compared to a past camping mishap and appreciates the modern conveniences provided. The site features sports facilities, a supermarket, pub, bistro-restaurant-pizzeria, and Wi-Fi. She also describes the outdoor activities available in the New Forest, such as cycling and the New Forest Walking Festival. The article concludes with pricing information for various accommodations at Sandy Balls New Forest Camping.

Menton Review: A Last Fling with Summer

Solange Berchemin reviews the town of Menton, located between Monaco and Italy, highlighting its historical appeal, biodiversity, and culinary delights. Once a Victorian favorite and a haven for tuberculosis sufferers, Menton is now known for its exceptional gardens, such as the Exotic Botanical Garden of Val Rahmeh, which conserves rare species. The town's food scene is vibrant, with markets, Michelin-starred restaurants, and artisan shops like Maison Herbin, a craft jam factory. Menton's lemon heritage is celebrated annually at the 'Fete du Citron'. The review also touches on the picturesque Old Quarter, Instagram-worthy medieval streets, and 'Les villages perchés' like Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Saint-Agnes, offering stunning views and authentic culinary experiences. For more information, visitors are directed to the local tourism office, and accommodation options include the Pavillon Impérial hotel.

In Search of Winnie the Pooh: A Stay at Ashdown Park Hotel

Solange Berchemin explores the Ashdown Park Hotel in East Sussex, a place steeped in history and known for its connection to A.A. Milne's Winnie-the-Pooh. Celebrating the fictional character's 100th anniversary, the hotel offers a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. With 106 rooms, some dog-friendly, and a variety of dining options, including the 2 AA-rosette Anderida restaurant, guests can enjoy local cuisine prepared with skill by Chef Andrew Wilson. The hotel also features sports and spa facilities, including a golf course and swimming pool. The Ashdown Park Hotel is part of the Elite Hotels group, which includes other luxury properties. The article provides a detailed account of the hotel's offerings, from its grand architecture to its culinary delights, and the unique experiences it provides, such as playing Pooh sticks on the famous bridge.

A Stay at the Stafford London: Classical Elegance in Mayfair

Solange Berchemin reviews The Stafford London, a prestigious hotel in Mayfair, London. The hotel, with a history linked to British nobility, offers a range of accommodations including the recently redesigned Carriage House and the Main House, which features luxury rooms and suites adorned with fine art. The American Bar, a historic spot within the hotel, is highlighted for its memorabilia and exclusive atmosphere. The Mews Master Suite, where the author stayed, is praised for its spaciousness and elegant amenities. The Stafford London is portrayed as a blend of traditional elegance and modern comfort, catering to a diverse clientele and providing exceptional service, including hard-to-get restaurant reservations. Contact details and room rates are provided for potential visitors.

Tell Me More About The NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina

Solange Berchemin reviews the NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina, a hotel in Turin, Italy, highlighting its stylish rooms, historical significance, and modern amenities. The hotel, situated in a 17th-century building, offers a variety of rooms with views of the city's landmarks, such as the Mole Antonelliana. The author appreciates the hotel's blend of old and new, including the Murano chandelier in the reception hall. Turin's connection to Fiat and its overlooked tourist potential are also discussed. The hotel's service is praised, particularly for personalizing rooms for returning guests. The review also suggests exploring Turin's cultural offerings and dining at local restaurants. Contact details and room rates for the hotel are provided, along with transportation options to Turin.

Tell Me More About The Hotel Martinez, Cannes

The article focuses on the luxurious Hotel Martinez in Cannes, famous for hosting film stars during the Cannes Film Festival. It highlights the hotel's history, Art-Deco architecture, and recent renovations led by designer Pierre-Yves Rochon. The renovations include a Mediterranean garden terrace and a swimming corridor. The hotel's rooms and suites are described as a blend of Art-Deco and modernism, with special mention of the toiletries provided by La Maison Fragonard. The article also touches on the hotel's dining options, including a breakfast buffet that showcases local Provencal produce and a private beach where guests can enjoy breakfast on weekends. Hotel Martinez is part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt and houses La Palme d’Or, a 2-star Michelin restaurant.

where I headed back in time to the lesser-known département of Corrèze for a weekend in a classic car along the narrowest of routes départementales and around hairpin bends, passing picture-postcard villages such as Curemonte, Uzerche and Collonges-la-Rouge.