The Norton Museum of Art in Palm Beach is currently hosting an exhibition entitled “Cocktail Culture” that explores the social rituals of the cocktail hour through the lens of fashion and design.  Featuring more than 150 objects, including attire, accessories, ads, decorative arts, illustrations, photography and more from the 1920s to the present, it promises to “leave you positively stirred, not shaken!”

Since the Leopard Lounge at the Chesterfield is one of the most popular cocktail bars in all of South Florida we thought this was a good excuse to do a quick profile of Michelle Gagnon, our bartender.

Michelle didn’t really plan to follow a career in bartending – it just happened that way.  “When I was at college I had a friend who owned a bar and restaurant.  I was helping them out one evening and one of the bartenders didn’t show up for work, so guess what…I ended up on the other side of the bar.  I absolutely loved it and have been bartending ever since.”
After college she stayed in the restaurant business then opened her own establishment in in West Hampton, New York.  Thirty years ago she rolled up in Palm Beach, and for the last twenty she’s been happily working at the Leopard Lounge Bar.

What has made her stay behind one bar so long?   “I just love the people who hang out here, whether they are regulars or new guests.  Every day is different – fresh stories, different experiences…there’s never a dull moment!  Also, the people I work with are the best.  Mark, my manager is great, the other bartenders, Lou, John and Candy are such a pleasure to work with.   And my fiancé, Adam Austin, piano player-entertainer extraordinaire, works here regularly, so that’s wonderful too.  Everyone on the team has become my extended family, so it’s not really like work at all!”

The Cosmopolitan was Carrie Bradshaw’s drink of choice in Sex and the City

When asked what cocktail she is most regularly asked for she replies “a Cosmopolitan – but served our way…Sex in the City.”   As you’ll no doubt be aware, the Cosmo was Carrie Bradshaw’s drink of choice throughout much of the series. The classic recipe includes vodka, Cointreau and lime juice, with a bit of cranberry juice and a dash of orange bitters to add an extra bit of tartness and a nice pink colour.

As for Michelle she sticks to white wine, but she has been told she makes the best Brandy Alexander ever.  The traditional recipe is a mix of brandy, crème de cacao, cream and a little grated nutmeg.  Michelle adds her own secret ingredient but refuses to reveal it – “I can tell you, but then I’d have to kills you” she says with a smile.

Michelle’s other claim to fame, along with the rest of the Leopard Lounge team, is being featured in a host of magazine articles and also in an A&E TV special about Palm Beach.  The Chesterfield Palm Beach and Michelle also feature prominently in a hilarious new book entitled “A Year in Palm Beach” by Richard and Pamela Myers that’s described by Donald Trump as “A fun read that shows a side of Palm Beach most people never see or even hear about.”

So, if you want to experience cocktail culture make a beeline for Palm Beach – you can take in the exhibition of the same name at the Norton Museum of Art, then and experience a few Cosmopolitans and Brandy Alexanders in the company of Michelle!

Let us know your favourite cocktail and why it gives that something special?!

With a festive chill in the air and the hotels sparkling Christmas lights twinkling in the night, there was a feeling of mystery and excitement in the air as we (The Marketing Team) approached The Leopard Bar.  We’d been sent summons from the team at The Rubens, 41 & bbar to join them for a night of ‘Euphoria’ – fun, food & drink and indeed it really was!

We were greeted at the Leopard Champagne Bar with a glass of champagne, a promising start, and an explanation of the events and challenges to come…

Champagne at The Leopard Bar

Fish & Chips and Champagne!

The first challenge was to sample two glasses of Champagne one a house Champagne and the other from a £5,000 bottle with a glass of water requested to cleanse the palate the competition was on! One by one we went, nibbling on mini fish & chips as we sniffed, tasted, examined and tried to bribe the barman. With the winner announced, ‘time to move along’ our hosts cried…

Kids treats at The Rubens

Fun & Adventure – not just for kids

Task two took us to one of the Junior Suites at The Rubens at the Palace where to our amazement the Director of Fun and Adventure, John Goncalves, had been let loose to create a kid’s haven, showing us how family friendly the hotel can actually be. There were sweeties, been-bags, bath toys, mini robes & slippers, teddy bears and games, not to mention Disney tunes creating a magical ambiance.  As we sampled the beer (strictly for adults) and mini burgers the General Manager, Malcolm Hendry, rolled up his sleeves and stepped into goal. Now this was a mini goal and he is not such a mini man so the challenge to score a goal was tough, but three succeeded and we were whisked from the kid’s toys, with pockets full of sweets onto location three…

Our bbar leopard

The wildness descended to bbar

Mojitios!

The next stop – 43 Below – the private party space underneath bbar (perfect for a Christmas party!), next door to the hotel.  Lined up along the bar were icy Mojitos with a suspicious looking character at the end of the bar purring in a leopard jumpsuit, complete with ears! Miaow! With appetites akin to a lion we devoured Boboite Spring Rolls as we completed the next challenge – naming the Big Five. With three beautiful South African hotels this should have been easy… 

Romantic treats at 41

The Perfect Proposal

From bbar to five star, we entered the magical doorway into Hotel 41, where we were whisked up to one of their fabulous Hospitality Suites. The lights had dimmed , we followed the trail of rose petals into the room and were swooned by the romantic tones from the ipod, candles and scents surrounded us as we were led into the adjoining room and there before us were more drinks and treats but first we had to perform a task. Famous for its proposals that take place in the hotel – we had to (one by one) get down on bended knee and propose to the Director of Sales, Steven.  The competition was stiff and the lines a little cheesy to say the least but true love cannot be mistaken and the lucky winner was congratulated with a specially designed Engagement Cake (double chocolate fudge too!)  Sadly, after such a heartfelt experience we were dismayed to discover Steven to be already married!! Shock horror!

Frozen Delights

Frozen in excitement

Getting even louder still,  it was with a heavy heart that we were then moved to our final destination the Cavalry Bar. Our mission here was to name this Tequila based icy cocktail by this time we were buzzing with ideas and the final possibility of claiming valuable points. In third was ‘Frostbite’ deemed too controversial given Scott died from this, second came ‘ The Final Glacier’ but the winner went to ‘Frozen Planet’  – very topical given the current BBC series showing at the moment (although some suspected it was the fact this idea came from the social media manager that won the top spot!)

After spending the previous 3 hours eating and mixing all sorts of alcoholic drinks, the obvious choice for concluding the night was to head back to bbar for a few more drinks and delicious platters of South Africa inspired cuisine. All in all, a perfect night full of fun, food and a lot of drinks!

“Suzie, I have a question for you”; is where it all started – “have you heard of the 3 peaks challenge?” JR continued – “No, I haven’t but sounds fun” was where it went downhill – or rather uphill. 3 of them in fact, all equally as steep and exhausting as the next!

The team feeling fresh

On Friday the 16th September I made my way to Luton Airport to meet 3 of my Red Carnation Hotels colleagues – JR (the boss), Sandra and Sarah. We were on our way to complete the 3 Peaks Challenge to raise money for Hospitality Action*.

Laden with walking boots, my trusty red ski jacket, a head torch, 2 walking poles, a rucksack full of homemade flapjack and blister plasters – “You won’t be able to walk for a week because of the blisters” friends and family advised, I happily accepted their words of wisdom except for those along the lines of “don’t do it, you must be mad”

Arriving at Glasgow airport, we immediately spotted another group of fellow hikers; it quickly became evident that I was no longer alone in the “lack of preparation” and “ignorance of the task at hand” department, so I started to feel a little more relaxed.

Around 5pm we were met by a guide called John, “just back from Killer” he confidently boasted, excellent experience I noted and started to look forward to the task ahead. I watched as John disappeared into the distance with another group and turned around to be greeted by Andy, a young man from Hereford who led us off to our minibus without a whisper of Kilimanjaro or similar boastful experience – I wasn’t convinced.

On arrival by mini bus at Fort William, we were joined by 3 other teams at the “Bunkhouse” which is exactly that – a house full of bunk beds. After a large glass of red, we left our guide Andy at the bar and after briefing him to be “at his best” for the morning I settled down for the night with the words “breakfast at 5am” tormenting me as I tried desperately to get some sleep.

Andy 3 Peaks

5am is a little early for Muesli but I was determined to stock up -  “Andy 3 Peaks” as we had now nicknamed him was the last to join us for breakfast and had a look of too many red wines from the night before; I was still not convinced and as the rain streamed down the window of the Bunkhouse, I reluctantly pulled on my waterproof trousers, layered myself up with thermals, 2 t-shirts, a fleece and ski jacket – determined I would not be beaten by the miserable weather.

At 6am we arrived at Achaintee House, at the foot of the mighty Ben Nevis. “This seems OK” I thought to myself as we picked up pace and started to head into the hills, I started to get in the swing of using my new walking poles, enjoyed the convenience of my new “bladder system” (water bottle with straw attached) and started to feel like a real adventurer.

"Get a move on Suzie!"

30 minutes in and hanging at the back of the group – it started to go slightly wrong. “Is it too early to drop out now?” I thought to myself, looking across at my team mate Sandra, I uttered the formidable words “I can’t do this” to which she dutifully responded “neither can I” so we decided to take a breather.  “SUZIE GET A MOVE ON”  were the booming words of encouragement from JR – “no time for sitting down” he continued and so despite the rain, leaking bladder system (see above), exhaustion and inevitable stitch, I de-layered and with some kind words of encouragement from Andy 3 Peaks ¬– I got a move on…

Reaching the top of Ben Nevis was amazing, the Red Carnation Flag was swiftly removed from JR’s back pack and we posed proudly for a team photo, unfortunately due to the poor weather conditions the views were non existent and so Andy 3 Peaks promptly led us back down Ben Nevis and back to the mini bus for the next leg of the journey – Scarfell Pike in the Lake District.

Spending 7 hours in a mini bus, drenched and exhausted was almost as uncomfortable as the climb itself. We eventually arrived at Seathwaite, at the foot of Scarfell around 7pm and were reminded to pull out our head torches for the night climb. Climbing a mountain in the dark is not something that would have ever occurred to me a sensible idea and as I stood clinging to the rock face at midnight, being told to “lean into the mountain” I understood why. “This is ridiculous” I shouted in amongst some other choice words “someone is going to get hurt” – my concerns were once again met with JR’s words of encouragement …“Get a move on Suzie”.

Several hours of climbing later and as we headed back down the Pike, I started to appreciate the wonder of climbing a mountain in the middle of the night, as we walked through flowing rivers and skilfully traversed the harsh rock face, It dawned on me that I might actually be starting to enjoy myself..

The night climb at Scarfell Pike

After making it back down to the bus at approx 2am; we had 3 hours to rest while we made our way to Snowdon – the final peak! Waking up on a warm bus after a couple of hours sleep, with 2 mountain climbs behind me and the sound of rain lashing down outside – to say I was less than eager was an understatement! As many of our team mates chose to quietly sit the last one out and swap the looming 7 hour hike for a few extra hours sleep; I also started to question whether two peaks was perhaps enough….”Get a move on Suzie”

Starting out from Pen-Y-Pass, we made our way up Snowdon in the dark, absolutely exhausted I felt a slight tickle of excitement “I am  almost there” I thought to myself and I couldn’t quite believe it. As the sun rose over the beautiful lakes of Snowdon I once again reflected on the past 24 hours and upon reaching the top of Snowdon, I was delighted!

I was certainly delighted to have completed the challenge and for such a worthy cause – but more so that it was almost over. Andy 3 peaks and I made it to the bottom of Snowdon at 12pm to be greeted by the lovely people from Hospitality Action; I proudly showed off my medal and posed for a final photo. I was delighted to have successfully finished the challenge, but at the same time felt quite sad that it was all over…as I said my goodbyes to Andy 3 Peaks – my new found friend – and briefly pondered my future as a mountain guide – I was ushered back to the waiting mini bus and for the final time heard the now familiar instruction to “get a move on Suzie”.

Written by Suzie Wotton, Vice President of Marketing at Red carnation Hotels

* For over 170 years Hospitality Action, the Hospitality Industry Benevolent Organisation, has offered vital assistance to all who work, or have worked within hospitality in the UK and who find themselves in crisis. Red Carnation Hotels raised £5000 for Hospitality Action during the 3 Peaks Challenge and will proudly continue to support the organisation’s great work.

Charles Lotter

Monkey World, near Wareham, Dorset, was set up in 1987 by the late Jim Cronin then operated by him and his wife. It was originally intended to provide a home and rescue centre for abused chimpanzees used as props by Spanish beach photographers, but is now home to many different species of primates.

Jim Cronin started by leasing a 65-acre pig farm that had fallen into disuse. Once he received permission to build his first enclosures he brought 8 rescued beach chimpanzees from Spain to the park. There was also a group of Barbary Macaques, and a one hand-reared Orangutan named Amy. These numbers grew steadily and now Monkey World has become the largest primate rescue centre in the world, working with foreign governments to stop the illegal smuggling, abuse, or neglect of primates.

Ash & Rodders the chimpanzees

The centre is now home to over 240 rescued primates of 16 different species and is rated as one of the most popular family attractions in the UK. In 2006 Jim and his wife Alison had their efforts recognised with the honour of Member of the British Empire (MBE) for services to animal welfare. Sadly Jim passed away in 2007 but Monkey World continues its great work.

There are currently 59 chimpanzees at Monkey World, in four different social groups. The rescued chimpanzees are rehabilitated into large social groups. Visitors can also see five different species of gibbons, Bornean and Sumatran orangutans, and 8 species of monkeys; capuchin monkeys, common marmosets, cotton-top tamarins, ring-tailed lemurs, a ruffed lemur, squirrel monkeys, stump-tailed macaques and woolly monkeys.

Silvestre the Sumatran orang-utan

Two well-loved television series, Monkey Business and Monkey Life, document the centre’s frequent rescue missions, undercover investigations, and the soap opera provided by the lives of the rescued monkeys and apes.

I highly recommend a visit. Monkey World is about 40 minutes’ drive from Summer Lodge and open every day except Christmas Day, from 10am to 5pm (6pm in July and August).

Images © Monkey World.

Sandra Anido

London Mayor Boris Johnson launched the Transport for London bike rental scheme in July 2010 and in the first year 120,000 people have become subscribers, more than five million journeys have been made and about 25,000 trips are completed every day.

If you’d like to know how the system works just watch this quick video. You can also get help with route planning here. However, if you are less interested in getting straight from A to B, and more inclined to take a pleasant ride though some of the most fascinating and scenic parts of the city, here’s my personal favourite, plus links to a couple of others for good measure.

Limehouse to Little Venice

Regents canal

The very best ride in London, I believe, is the route from Limehouse, just up river from Canary Wharf, to Little Venice in lovely Maida Vale. The best thing about it is the lack of traffic – you’re cycling westwards along the old tow path of the picturesque Regents Canal. The ride is flat, 8 miles long, and will take you about one and a half hours to complete. Having said that, there’s so much to enjoy along the way that you could make this trip last all day!

You start at Limehouse Basin, where the canal meets the Thames. An area rich in history, there’s now plenty of splendid modern architecture to admire, as well as a Hawksmoor church (St Anne’s) and plenty of impressive yachts in the marina. Soon you’ll arrive at Mile End Park where you can have a freshener at the eccentric 1950s throwback pub the Palm Tree (Haverfield Road, E3 5BH).

If you fancy a little detour the boot-shaped Victoria Park lies just beyond the entrance to the Hertford Union Canal (aka Duckett’s Cut). The Old Ford Lock is where canal boaters traditionally changed horses but your bike doesn’t need the same care and attention so carry on straight to the Hackney Gasworks.

Soon you get to the City Road Basin, once the largest trading centre along Regent’s Canal. You could stop for a pint at the impressive Island Queen pub around the corner (87 Noel Road, N1 8HD). There’s also the Canal Museum, or you could explore Camley Street Natural Park for some peace and quiet.

Once past Camden Town, where you can spend a few hours browsing the stalls at the famous Camden Lock Market. Next you come to the huge green expanse of Regent’s Park, and London Zoo. You could also take a short detour up to Primrose Hill for a spectacular view of the city. The cycle path skirts around the north of the Regent’s Park and then it’s on to Little Venice, where the Regent’s Canal ends and the Grand Union Canal begins. To celebrate completing your leisurely ride head for the kitsch theatre pub the Bridge House (13 Westbourne Terrace Road, W2 6NG), the fabulously ornate Prince Alfred and Formosa Dining Rooms (54 Formosa Street, W9 1EE) or the Warrington Hotel (93 Warrington Crescent, W9 1EH), a popular haunt of ageing pop stars that’s part of the Gordon Ramsay empire.

Tower Bridge to Albert Bridge

This ride takes you up the river, through the very centre of the capital, with stunning vistas unfolding on either bank as you take in the ten bridges of London Town. You can find details of this ride here.

Westminster to Kew Gardens

This route also follows the river, but takes you further upstream. You go from Big Ben and the London Eye, past the Tate Britain and the Iconic Battersea Power Station to world famous Kew Gardens. You can find details of this ride here.

Wayne Coetzer

1. Sardine Run — Protea Banks, KwaZulu Natal

If you’ve not heard of the Sardine Run, check out our earlier post. It’s an awesome event that occurs in June and July as massive schools of sardines start their migration from the colder depths of the Cape and move to the warmer waters of KwaZulu Natal near the Oyster Box

As you’ll see from this video you dive to depths of about 5–7 meters and watch as dolphins, whales, sharks and even the Cape Gannet (dive bombing from above) tuck in to sardine supper.

2. Hotspot — Sodwana Bay, KwaZulu Natal

Sodwana Bay offers a host of great dives but this one is all about Zambezi and Tiger sharks, spectacular whipcorals, game fishing, and blue and gold Fusiliers. You start from a 100 meter long ledge and reach depths of 27–30 meters. Two longnose Hawkfish hide under the overhang of black coral. There are caves, pinnacles and lots of sharks for the adrenalin junkies.

3. Clifton Rock — Cape Town

Clifton Rock sits in the Atlantic Ocean about 100 meters off the shore south-west of Cape Town. It encompasses an area with a large number of boulders, creating wonderful swim-throughs and secret spots for marine life including nudibranches, starfish, soft sponges and crayfish.

This is a great intro for new divers still getting into their swing and a great activity to enhance your long summer days with some sunbathing on the beach and a new experience that is both fun and definitely refreshing!

4. Uniforms — Sodwana Bay, KwaZulu Natal

This Sodwana Bay dive site is situated in iSimangaliso Wetland Park north of Durban. Known for its coral diversity, the best time for diving here is said to be between April and September even though that is when the water is at its coldest. If you prefer the summer water temperatures of about 25 degrees during the months of December and January you are set for a treat as this is the time the turtles lay their eggs.

This dive spoils you with its layered contoured coral and ocean beauties such as the Tiger Angelfish, purple butterfly fish, yellow tail goldie and much more….

Tiger Shark

5. Raggie Cave / Shark Alley — Aliwal Shoal, KwaZulu Natal

Two names for the same dive site situated off the coast of KwaZulu Natal at Aliwal Shoal. It is made up of an 80,000 year old sandstone reef and has been selected as one of the top ten dives sites of the world promising almost anything a diver can wish for. From June through November you are sure to see Ragged Tooth Sharks and in summer you are most likely to see Tiger sharks and Hammerheads!

6. Avalanche Reef — Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape

Known for its beautiful coastal scenery, Port Elizabeth is a hub of outdoor water activities and offers some great dive sites. The water temperatures are definitely some of the coldest so if you own a dry suit it is advisable to use it.

This dive takes you to a gorgeous, densely populated coral reef – it’s an amazing experience that’s well worth braving those cold waters!

7. Haerlem Wreck — Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape

This dive takes you to depths of about 18–21 meters. Haerlem Wreck is all that’s left of a navy frigate that, scuttled in 1987, has become an artificial reef perfect for divers. She has settled 21 meters below the surface, with her bow to the south and has created holes, nooks and crannies for the curious diver keen to encounter some shy sharks, a variety of fish and soft coral.

Scuba-diving

8. A Frame — Simonstown, Cape Town

Located 5km south of Simons Town, the A Frame area consists of 3 shore dives — one of which is also called the A Frame, said to be named after the small cave entrance shaped in an A. As you make your way from the white beach sand into the water it’s a perfect spot for a night dive. You can expect to see pipefish, lobsters, seals, several types of rays and some harmless sharks such as pyjama sharks and dogfish.

9. Storms River Mouth — Mossel Bay, Garden Route

Mossel Bay is well sheltered and offers one of the “mildest climates of the world”. This dive location is perfect for adrenaline junkies as it is well known for its shark cage diving where you will see Great Whites feeding. For those on the other end of the adrenalin-spectrum, Storms River Mouth is the location for you, as it is all about gorgeous reefs and big fish! With the drop off being quite tame it is also possible to do some night diving which is a whole new experience and very exciting.

10. Paquita Wreck — Knysna Heads, Garden Route

Situated in the small touristy town of Knysna, found on the Garden Route, this dive (to depths of up to 20 meters) promises to be one of the best wreck dives you will see around these parts. The Paquita, a 460 ton German vessel, ran ashore in 1903 when she struck the Knysna Heads en-route to Barbados. This dive is all about timing as it is located on the mouth of a large lagoon where tides get pretty rough.

Seahorses, Steenbras and gorgeous corals are just some of the marine life you will see.

Sandra Anido

The term haute couture is French for “high sewing” or “high dressmaking”. It refers to the creative process of designing and producing exclusive custom-fitted clothing. Made to order for a specific customer, it is usually cut from high-quality, expensive fabric. This is and sewn with extreme attention to detail and finished by the most experienced and capable seamstresses, often using time-consuming, hand-executed techniques.

Sounds French, but haute couture was invented by an Englishman

The term originated in the mid-nineteenth century and referred to the work of an Englishman Charles Frederick Worth. He was employed at several prosperous London drapery shops before moving to Paris in 1846. He was hired by Gagelin and Opigez, well-known Parisian drapers. While working in their shop, he married one of the firm’s models, Marie Vernet. Worth made a few simple dresses for his wife and customers started to ask for copies.

Worth urged his partners to expand into dressmaking, but they hesitated to risk their reputation in a business as low-class as dressmaking. Worth found a wealthy Swede who was willing to bankroll the venture and opened the dressmaking establishment of Worth and Bobergh in 1858.

Empress Elizabeth in a dress by Charles Worth

Dressmaker to nobility

Worth was soon patronised by the French Empress Eugénie, and after that by many titled, rich, and otherwise notable women. Catherine Walters and Cora Pearl, the famous demimondaines, and Pauline von Metternich, an Austrian princess and musical patron, were Worth devotees, the infamous beauty Virginia Oldoini, Countess di Castiglione was often dressed by him. He also dressed actresses such as Sarah Bernhardt and singers such as Nellie Melba. Many of his customers travelled to Paris from other countries, coming from as far away as New York and Boston.

The most iconic client of his was Elizabeth, Empress of Austria. Obsessed with her appearance she followed a strict and draconian diet and exercise regimen to maintain her 20-inch waistline, wasting away to near emaciation at times. Estranged from her husband, Emperor Franz Josef, she restlessly roamed Europe and was eventually stabbed by an anarchist in 1898. This occurred on the shore of Lake Geneva, directly opposite what is now Red Carnation’s Hotel d’Angleterre – you can see a statue marking the spot directly opposite the hotel’s Windows restaurant.

He also dressed actresses such as Sarah Bernhardt and singers such as Nellie Melba. Many of his customers travelled to Paris from other countries, coming from as far away as New York and Boston.

The father of the catwalk

Rather than let the customer dictate the design, as had previously been dressmaking practice, four times a year he displayed model dresses at fashion shows. His patronesses would pick a model, which would then be sewn in fabrics of their choice and tailored to their figure. Worth was sufficiently successful that he had to turn away customers. He completely revolutionised the business of dressmaking. He was the first of the couturiers, dressmakers considered artists rather than mere artisans.

Red tape is introduced

In France, the term haute couture is protected by law and is defined by the Chambre de commerce et d’industrie de Paris based in Paris. Their rules state that only “those companies mentioned on the list drawn up each year by a commission domiciled at the Ministry for Industry are entitled to avail themselves” of the label haute couture. The criteria for haute couture were established in 1945 and updated in 1992. However, the term is also used loosely to describe all high-fashion custom-fitted clothing, whether it is produced in Paris or in other fashion capitals such as Milan, London, New York and Tokyo.

The sixties – all change

In the 1960s a group of young designers who had trained under men like Dior and Balenciaga left these established couture houses and opened their own establishments. The most successful of these young designers were Yves Saint Laurent, Pierre Cardin, André Courrèges, Ted Lapidus, and Emanuel Ungaro. Japanese native and Paris-based Hanae Mori was also successful in establishing her own line.

The 1960s also featured a revolt against established fashion standards by mods, rockers, and hippies, as well as an increasing internationalization of the fashion scene. Rich women no longer felt that a Paris dress was necessarily better than one sewn elsewhere. So while Paris is still pre-eminent in this world, it is no longer the sole arbiter of fashion – hence the popularity of London Fashion Week.

Horst Frehse

The Garden Route is a stunning 200km stretch of coastline about half a day’s drive east from Cape Town. The climate is the second mildest in the world (after that of Hawaii), so the landscape is magnificently verdant and ecologically diverse, with a wealth of wildlife, forests and Fynbos. Many describe the area as “South Africa’s Garden of Eden”.

The attractions are too numerous to list here but here are my top tips.

The Tsitsikamma National Park is one of South Africa’s most dramatic protected areas with massive breakers crashing into towering cliffs, deep gorges covered in thick forest and towering mountains rising steeply inland. Adrenalin junkies can jump off the Bloukrans Bridge, the world’s highest commercially operated bungee jump (216 metres!). The park also boasts one of South Africa’s best long-distance hikes, the 42km Otter Trail, offering five days of superb coastal walking with rivers to ford and plenty of time to swim, snorkel or just relax.

The jewel of the Garden Route is Plettenberg Bay. Originally christened the “beautiful bay” by early Portuguese explorers, it offers miles of unspoilt coastline and beautiful, uncrowded beaches. It is also known as the whale watching capital of the world. Southern Right Whales come within metres of the shore, along with Bottlenose Dolphins, Fur Seals, Humpbacks and Killer Whales.

The Cango Caves, in the Klein Karoo mountains, are near the top of the list of South Africa’s most popular attractions. A series of dripstone caverns, stretching for 4kms, open into vast halls of towering stalagmite boasting formations with names like ‘the bridal couple’, ‘glass flower fantasy’, ‘weird cango candle’ and ‘the hanging shawl’. ‘Cleopatra’s Needle’, which stands 9 metres high and is at least 150,000 years old, is one of the main attractions, but the beautiful dark grey roof, with its smoothly sculptured hollows and pendants, comes a close second.

Oudtshoorn, at the heart of the Klein Karoo, is a remarkable town – in the late Victorian and the Edwardian period it became incredibly wealthy from the production of Ostrich feathers, much in demand with the fashion industry. Demand is not the same these days but the area still boasts a number of ostrich ranches producing meat, leather, eggs and feathers – you can even go for a ride on the world’s biggest bird!

The Garden Route is also a magnet for surfers with Victoria Bay, Buffalo Bay (last wild buffalo to roam the beach was in fact killed here in 1883!) and Plettenberg Beach all being very popular. The really serious guys carry on east to Jeffrey’s Bay to tackle the legendary “supertubes“.

The Garden Route offers a wide range of spectacular scuba diving opportunities. In Plettenberg Bay there’s Groot Bank, Redbait Reef, Deep Blinders, Shallow Blinders, Dolphin Column, Jacob’s Poort and Whale Rock, as well as the MFV Athina wreck (1967). At the Tsitsikamma Marine Park there are trails for scuba-diving and snorkelling. In Knysna there’s the Dagleish Bank, East Cape Reef, Bruce’s Bank and the Pinnacle, with the wrecks The Fairholme (1888), The Paquita (1903), and the Phantom wreck. And in Mossel Bay there is the reef at Klein Brak River Mouth, Stingray Reef, Mitch’s Reef, the Santos Reef, Dolosse and the shallow and deep blinders of Windvogel Reef. You really are spoilt for choice!

The town of Knysna is in an absolutely gorgeous spot and was named one of the Top 100 Destinations in the World in the TripAdvisor 2008 Travellers’ Choice Destinations Awards. Apart from the splendours of the surroundings the unassuming little angling museum (entry by donation) is home to an unusual biological curiosity, a preserved Coelacanth. This is a “missing link” fish, with fins resembling primitive arms and legs. It was thought to be extinct until a specimen was caught in a deep-sea fishing net off the South African coast in 1939. Since then divers have discovered several colonies in the depths of the Indian Ocean.

Francine Boissonneault

Palm Beach County is blessed with some of the greatest big-game fishing in the world. The warm, fertile waters of the Atlantic’s Gulf Stream are closer here than anywhere else in the United States – literally a ten minute boat ride. Sailfish are routinely caught within sight of the beach, and the Florida record is a whopping 116lbs! There are plenty of local companies who offer private charters. Other big sport fish you can expect to catch are Blue Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Swordfish and King Mackerel.

Exploring the waterways of Palm Beach County is a great way to spend the day. There’s well over a 100 miles of freshwater canals, rivers, and lakes to keep you busy! Hire a jet ski or a Craig Cat (both for two people), try canoeing or kayaking, or rent a larger boat for the whole family. Another option is to book onto an excursion on the waterways around Palm Beach, Singer Island, and Peanut Island.

Big game fishing

The crystal clear waters, teeming with all kinds of colourful marine life, are ideal for snorkelling. You can take tours to Peanut Island, or into the Atlantic Ocean for snorkelling over coral reefs just off the beach over sunken piers. Expect to see lots of tropical fish, turtles, rays, starfish and sometimes manatees.

A number of companies also offer scuba diving courses and excursions. Just off the Palm Beach coast lies the Breakers’ reef in 60′ of water, voted as one of the top ten drift dives in the world by Rodale’s Scuba Diving magazine. Pristine coral reef formations with over 400 species of fish, crustaceans, sponges and invertebrates can be found within a mile offshore – perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike.

Water-skiing

Water-skiing is available the whole year round, with a wide variety of different locations to choose from, either inland or on the ocean. And when the surf is up you can ride the waves too!

Airboating in the Everglades

Then of course there’s the spectacular inland wetlands of the Florida Everglades. The best way to experience this amazing region is on an airboat. Safe, exhilarating and fun for all the family this brings you face to face with some of the most beautiful scenery in all the USA, as well as some very colourful wildlife, including Florida’s most famous residents – alligators. Also look out for crocodiles, caiman, deer, egrets, cottonmouth snakes, otters, racoons and manatees.

Of course, if that all sounds like too much rushing about, and you fancy something a little more sedate, we have 47 miles of beaches that are perfect for sunbathing, paddling, swimming, barbecues, walking…and just chilling out.

Charles Lotter

The Jurassic Coast ranks with the Great Barrier Reef and the Grand Canyon as one of the recognised natural wonders of the world. It provides a fascinating scenic walk through 185 million years of history covering the Jurassic, Triassic and Cretaceous periods.

Parts of the coast are world famous for fossils and new specimens are being constantly uncovered. However, that’s only part of the attraction – the entire stretch is stunningly beautiful with an unparalleled range of dramatic natural features from landslides to rock arches. Here’s a list of must-see highlights.

Lulworth Cove

The hard rocks at the very edge of the cliffs have eroded much more slowly than the rocks behind – this explains Lulworth Cove’s distinctive horseshoe shape. There’s a lovely beach, fascinating heritage centre, and tiny village with a small hotel and two ancient pubs. The beautiful rock arch of Durdle Door is nearby.

The Fossil Forest

Just to the east of Lulworth Cove is the Fossil Forest. It formed 144 million years ago when sea levels dropped and trees started growing. The area then became swampland with thick layers of algae growing around the stumps and fallen logs. Sediment then covered and fossilised them in the shapes you can see today – the most complete fossil record of a Jurassic forest in the world.

Chesil Beach and Fleet Lagoon

Chesil Beach

Chesil Beach is an awe inspiring 18 mile long pebble beach, separated from the mainland by a remarkable area of saline water called the Fleet Lagoon. The desolate atmosphere has inspired two famous novels – “Moonfleet”, the hair-raising tale of ghosts and smugglers, and the more recent “On Chesil Beach” by Ian McEwen.

Abbotsbury Swannery

Abbotsbury Swannery, at the western end of Chesil Beach, is only place in the world where you are able to walk through the heart of a colony of nesting Mute Swans. It was established by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury during the 1040’s. They farmed the swans to produce food for their lavish Dorset banquets!

Fossil from Jurassic Coast

Lyme Regis and Charmouth

Lyme Regis and Charmouth are two of the best spots for fossil hunting – but click here for directions to all the different fossil sites along this coast. Ammonites, Belemnites and even bones from Ichthyosaurs, or “fish lizards”, are frequently uncovered.

See the exhibits in the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre, the Lyme Regis Philpot Museum and Dinosaurland, or take a guided tour with local experts. Also read the novel, “Remarkable Creatures” by Tracy Chevalier for the amazing story of local fossil hunter Mary Anning.

The Undercliff

The Axmouth to Lyme Regis Undercliffs National Nature Reserve is one of the most important wilderness areas in Britain. The entire reserve is formed from landslides, and is particularly famous for the occurrence of an enormous landslide at Bindon on Christmas Eve 1839. The area was brought vividly to life in the novel and film “The French Lieutenant’s Woman”.

Beer Caves

Just behind the village of Beer there is a layer of Chalk known as Beer Stone, composed of minute shell fragments. It’s a high quality masonry stone used in many important buildings. Quarried from underground since Roman times, the workings have created Beer Quarry Caves which cover an area equivalent to over 50 football pitches. Guided tours are available.

Golden Cap

Golden Cap is the highest cliff on the South coast of England. It forms part of West Bay, the site of many enormous landslides that occur from time to time. The views and walking are exceptional.

The Isle of Portland

The Isle of Portland is home to Portland Stone, probably the most famous building stone in the world. Many of London’s finest buildings have been, and continue to be, built using this fine white limestone. The earliest known use was by the Romans. Christopher Wren famously chose the stone for the rebuilding of St Paul’s Cathedral after the Great Fire of London in 1666.

Durlston Head

Durlston Head, topped by the splendid Victorian Durlston Castle, offers exquisite views of the English Channel, Durlston Bay and the Isle of Wight. The parkland and wild coastal scenery is accessible to the public from nearby Swanage.

When you’ve explored that lot you’ll probably be ready for one of our legendary afternoon teas – a hearty appetite is essential!