When we booked our flights, we knew that we wanted to spend our 2 weeks in Bali across different places to experience the most of its beauty. We’d both been to Bali a handful of times, and knew we (definitely) didn’t want to stay in Kuta as the days of us partying went years and years ago.

So, we decided on Seminyak to start with. Having never stayed in Seminyak, I had a browse across the web and found The Amala Estate on Luxury Escapes website.

I’d never tried to book with Luxury Escapes, and I think, like some others may think, the prices and places just seem too good to be true. There must be a catch somewhere?

Either way, we ‘put our money’ on The Amala Estate in Seminyak and hoped for a good start to our trip.. Little did we know that this place was going to exceed any expectations or ideas we could’ve hoped for.

From the beginning, we had a lovely driver pick us up from the airport in an amazing (fully air conditioned) car. Transfers are included in the package prize which took another step our of our itinerary that we had to worry about – it was already organised as soon as we booked with The Amala Estate through Luxury Escapes online assistants that are available to help you with anything on email.

We arrived late at night to The Amala, but just in time to get an order in for a late-night dinner in our private villa which we were thrilled about, because we were SO hangry!

We had the luxury of having our own private 2-bedroom villa with our own pool, 2 bathrooms and a kitchen a long with a huge open lounge room as well. This place was just so divine, we couldn’t believe it. In all fairness, the photos actually doesn’t do this place justice – it’s 10 times better in real life!

Further included in the package from Luxury Escapes with The Amala Estate was:

• A La Carte Breakfast served in our villa every morning
• Driver service locally
• Couple Massage
• Airport Transfers (as mentioned above)
• 1 x Dinner + Drinks (at the restaurant or in our villa)
• 20% food and drinks
• Unlimited spring-water
• 24 Hour Service

As mentioned above, we also had the luxury of receiving a couple-massage at The Wellness Centre at The Amala Estate. This is – hands down – one of the best relaxation massages I’ve ever had. The ladies working at the spa are so attentive, kind and thorough whether it’s a massage, facial or spa bath.

The Amala Estate also has yoga on twice a week which is more of a breath-focused yoga/moving meditation which anyone can do. It was a lovely way to start the mornings on which we went.

The area in which The Amala Estate is located, is a little further from Seminyak Beach and about a 20 minute walk to Seminyak Village/Square. It’s a little out of the way, but it makes it so much more tranquil and the estate has everything you need if you don’t ride a scooter or have a car. You can easily take advantage of the driver-service as well, if you do wish to head to the beach or somewhere else.

There are some great little cafes and restaurants located around The Amala Estate which will only take you about 5-10 minutes to walk to if you’re wanting a little taste of something other than The Amala. If you can’t be bothered, then kick back and enjoy the very healthy cuisine that The Amala is serving up.

We were genuinely so sad to be leaving The Amala. The Staff there is so kind and helpful, and the villa was utterly amazing. It’s safe to say that we were a little shellshocked coming from a serviced villa to an independent Air BnB, that’s for sure

I can’t recommend trying out Luxury Escapes for your next holiday enough. It’s an incredible platform in which they partner with some of the world’s best known and loved travel brands to change the way you book and experience a holiday.

Another huge thing from Luxury Escapes is that all of their departures are guaranteed so members can book their travel with confidence, knowing their preferred date will run as planned and won’t be changed.

A few messages me on Instagram asking if Luxury Escapes is actually as good as they make themselves out to be?

The answer is really short and sharp; YEP! They really are. And there’s no catch to it either. They’re simply changing the way that we travel for the better.

Book your next holiday with Luxury Escapes here

The post Review: Luxury Escapes x The Amala Estate Seminyak appeared first on Caroline Høgh Groth.

Personally, and despite growing up in Denmark where our winters can easily hit -10 degrees, and our summers can be a hit or miss, I’m not much of a fan of the cold. There, I said it.. This also means that I’m most likely going to try to visit home (Copenhagen) in July/August & potentially tie it in with a visit to London, because when I’m over that way anyway, it’s nice to get a little ‘holiday’ in.. I know what you’re thinking, but you’ll understand if you’re an expat who visits home frequently – it’s anything but a holiday, said in the nicest possible way.

Anyway, back to the actual point of this article – IN-FLIGHT MUST HAVES! Because, have you ever been stuck on a plane without that one vital thing that could change your flight from being a dream to a nightmare? Yep, me too..

So, I’m here to help rescue you with a quick check-list to make your life easier (& more comfortable).

Reusable Water-Bottle:

I thought it’d be best to start out with something simple.. BUT, as much as I thought this was well known, nearly every time I fly there’s someone who has to stop the scanning-queue to bin their water or soda. You can fill an empty water bottle after you clear security, it’s that easy. And you’ll help the environment, too. It’ll also help you save the air-staff’s time, by only asking them to fill your water-bottle a few times on the flight, instead of continuously asking for your plastic-cup to be topped up – it’s annoying for the both of you, if you’re one of those who always makes sure they’re hydrated.

Clear Travel Cases:

This may seem like an odd thing, but you have no idea how much time it will safe you when you’re needing to go to the flight-lavatory and there’s not as much light or room to move around as you’re used to. Being able to see what’s in your beauty-cases without having to open them up, will both help you on-board and also when you check-in your bags to make sure you don’t have any liquids over 100ml or flame-able items packed.

Carry-on With Built-in Charger:

The world has evolved, and never do you need to run out of battery again! As much as some people enjoy the flights to be ‘electronic-free’ and an escape from everything for a few hours, there are those of us that may need to be able to stay in touch with the world around us whether that’s due to work or simply because you enjoy being reachable.

Investing in a carry-on luggage that double up as a charger for your phone or laptop is a win/win. It also means that when the carry-on runs out of battery, you can use the USB-chord to charge your phone on the plane through the USB-outtake in the headrest in front of you.

Noise-Cancelling Headphones:

Back to the world of technology. And if you’ve ever forgotten your noise-cancelling headphones if you’re used to bringing them on a flight, then you understand when I say they’re a must to help with the noise from the plane and providing you a sense of relief from the ongoing and constant sound when up in the air.

You don’t need to use them to simply watch movies – you could pop on a guided meditation, an audiobook or a podcast to help you with the flight. The world is your oyster, but investing in a pair of good noise-cancelling headphones if you’re an avid traveller is one of my must top-tips you won’t regret putting your money into.

Contact Lenses, Glasses & Eye Drops:

This 3-way combo will save you from looking like you’ve bene out partying all night long, especially if you’re a contactlense wearer like myself. I always bring my disposable one-day contact lenses with me, and as soon as I get on the plane I swap over to wearing glasses. Because the air in the flight is so dry, it’ll also dry out your eyes much quicker. This is where good eye-drops also come in handy to use every few hours.

Magnesium Gel:

You may not think about this, but here’s the thing; how often do you feel like you’ve been hit by a bus when you get off a long-haul flight? Yep, my point exactly. Unless you’re flying business class, and even then, your body is sitting still in a small space for a longer period of time – something it’s not really used to. You’re bound to be experiencing muscle soreness and stiffness eventually.

You might even feel a headache coming on? Or maybe you’ve got period pains? A topical magnesium gel or spray will work instantly instead of oral-powders and it’s convenient enough to use simply in your seat or in the flight-lavatory.

Sleep Mask:

Even though you’re often gifted a sleep-mask onboard long-haul flights they just don’t really cut it for me. Either the material is too thing, it doesn’t cover my face or eyes enough or it’s irritating my skin.. So, instead of relying on what I’m given, I simply have invested in my own and bring it with me on-board.

If you can get your hands on a silk sleep-mask, it’ll be one of the best thing you’ve ever invested in for your travels. It feels so soft on your face and doesn’t irritate your skin. Basically it almost feels like you’re wearing nothing which is what I want when I use a sleep-mask.

Make-up Wipes:

Can be used for anything. Taking off your make-up, cleaning your hands, wiping your kids face after they’ve eaten if you’re travelling with children, freshening up under arms. There’s no limit. However, I do highly recommend using them to take off your make-up as soon as you step onto the plane. Let your skin breathe to prevent dryness and/or breakouts when in the sky. They’re also easily disposable which is obviously handy.

Travel Skincare Kit:

Depending on how long you’re away for, it will save you lots of space to invest in a little travel-kit of your favourite skincare-regime. Most brands to them these days, because they know how important it is to make space in your luggage for shopping or other necessities.. And if you’re one of those people who uses different cremes, mists, cleansers etc. etc. both day and night, it’ll quickly add up to your overall luggage if you don’t find them in a mini-version.

If you do invest in a travel-kit it also means you can take it on-board with you and cleanse your face as well as moisturise as soon as you set feet on the plane. I recommend doing this as well as investing in a facial-mist to hydrate your face with every 2 hours or so.

Supplements:

You didn’t think I’d do an article without having some type of natural aid included, did you?

Some of my favourite supplements include:

• Probiotics: essential for supporting digestive health, especially when traveling. Probiotics help support gut health by overpopulating the digestive tract with healthy organisms. While probiotics can’t prevent you fully from becoming ill, they can strengthen your stomach when you’re enjoying food you might not eat at home
• Melatonin: Melatonin is a natural hormone that is produced by the pineal gland in the brain and is only released at night. It’s sometimes called the ‘hormone of darkness’. It’s controlled by the 24-hour circadian clock, and its release tells the brain that it is nighttime. This is why it’s great to help kick jetlag.
• Enzymes: will help you digest foods better, especially if you’re eating foods that you’re not used to, which most of us do when we travel.
• Adaptogens: Adaptogens are herbs that help your body cope, or “adapt,” to stressful situations by regulating your body’s stress response. When we travel we can often end up running on adrenalin because everything is exciting and new, but it’s not our optimal state of being all the time.
• Collagen: collagen helps strengthen the skin and can also help you with rebuilding your gut if you suffer from leaky gut or gut-issues. It will also help with joint-pain and digestion.

Healthy Snacks:

Packing a few of your own snacks is an absolute game-changer. If you suddenly get hungry, it’s nice to know that you have a healthy option waiting for you in your bag if you want it. Or, you may even have a layover, but at an airport that doesn’t offer much else than MacDonal’s or nutrient-less options. Thinking ahead and grabbing a few snacks will save you big time.

Other things that will make your flight much more comfortable:

• A Big Scarf (as a blanket)
• Comfy & Warm Socks
• Compression Socks
• Toothbrush & Toothpaste
• Hair-Tie
• A Change of Clothes
• A Few Good Books
• Pre-Downloaded Podcast Episodes & Spotify Playlists
• Hand Sanitiser
• Chewing Gum or Mints (if you get blocked ears)
• Ear Plugs
• Pre-booked Meals if you have Intolerances

What’s Your Long-Haul Flight MUST HAVES?

The post Heading Overseas This Winter? These Are My Absolute MUST-HAVE Long-Haul Flight Essentials. appeared first on Caroline Høgh Groth.

So, we decided to stay somewhat local – at least for Sydney – as Bondi-residents it’s far from the ‘bubble’, but exactly what we needed and only 50 mins drive away.

Heading 50 mins South-West of Sydney by car and you end up in Liverpool, NSW. However, we weren’t staying in the thick of it, actually, far from it.

We spend a night at the newly opened The William Inglis which is a boutique 5-star luxury hotel owned by Mgallery by Sofitel. It’s part of the new $140m precinct developed by thoroughbred horse sales company William Inglis & Son Ltd called Riverside Stables, AccorHotels is partnering with
this 5th generation family owned business. It’s located adjacent to the Warwick Farm racecourse.

Riverside Stables is the result of nine years of planning, with Inglis relocating their Sydney business, which has been situated at Randwick for a remarkable 100 years, to its new home at Warwick Farm. Named after the Inglis company’s figurehead and founder, William Inglis, the hotel will service the racing industry and clients, but is also be a major drawcard for regional tourism across both the corporate and leisure
sectors.

The Hotel:

The William Inglis Hotel will be the cornerstone of the new site and is drawing travellers from around the world. Celebrating Inglis’ racing and thoroughbred history, each of the 144 guest rooms has a unique theme and is named after one of the many champion racehorses sold through the sales rings. The biggest, on Level 8, is the Presidential Suite – named the Black Caviar Suite. Each guest room will be personalised to the champion racehorse it is named after, featuring an artistic painting of the winning
jockey silks, and an image or original artwork of the horse. In addition to this, the entrance to each room includes a replica of the original winner’s plaque from the Newmarket barns.

The rooms are beautifully designed, and has a large bathroom that’s perfect to relax in, complete with a bath for those (still cold) Spring nights.

The beds are large and comfy – not too soft, not too hard, but just perfect. And you have a blissful night’s sleep, waking up to a beautiful sunlight coming through the curtains, and revealing the race-track below you.

The Facilities:

The William Inglis Hotel offers guests a choice of world-class hospitality facilities including all day dining paddock-to-plate restaurant Newmarket Room. The menu focuses on robust food with rural soul but refined elegance. The restaurant was built in honour of Inglis’ Randwick home and one of its more famous elements, the Newmarket Room, where many a client spent time celebrating with friends.
Elements of the Newmarket site and the Inglis heritage are incorporated throughout, with an entire wall of the restaurant lined with the original Group 1-winner plaques that were featured on barn doors throughout the Newmarket complex. Along with this, the restaurant is decorated with photos of the original Newmarket site. Adjoining the restaurant is the beautiful al fresco dining area, Newmarket Gardens.

A stunning rooftop bar and pool deck takes pride of place atop the hotel. The Chiltern Pool Deck & Bar is the only pool in the world where you can relax on cabanas and sun loungers while overlooking 300 acres of greenery and watch the races from above. The bar serves cocktails and pool snacks for those sunny days.

The whisky lounge positioned on the mezzanine level of the hotel is named in honour of the year William Inglis and Son was founded. 1867 Lounge is a high-end whisky and wine bar, offering a sophisticated cocktail menu, whisky selection, specialised champagne list and bar snacks.

Heroic Café in the ground floor lobby provides gourmet coffee and an all-day café menu which is fast, fresh and wholesome, easy for you to grab if you’re on the go, or when you’re heading back home for the car-ride.

The Leisure Facilities:

A fully-equipped 24-hour gymnasium and luxurious day spa is located on level eight of the hotel.
The fitness centre has the latest gym equipment including a range of cardio and strength facilities, and the spa offers a variety of indulgent massages and beauty treatments.

The heated outdoor 20m pool is perfect to relax by or to go for a swim.

We absolutely loved our stay at The William Inglis, and we walked away feeling refreshed and renewed. We didn’t need to leave the hotel as we only stayed one night, allowing us to take full advantage of discovering the beauty in and around the hotel and just clock-off from every day life.

I highly recommend a visit, if you’re after a romantic get-away with your partner, but don’t want to spend a lot of money on travel or hotel.

Caroline xx

The post REVIEW: THE WILLIAM INGLIS BY MGALLERY SOFITEL appeared first on Caroline Høgh Groth.

When you hear the word Copenhagen you may instantly think ‘The Little Mermaid” or “Crown Princess Mary”, but I’m here to tell you, and take it from some one who’s from Denmark themselves, there’s so much more to Copenhagen than what first meets the eye.

Here are my Top 5 Reasons You Should Put Copenhagen On Your Bucket List:

1. The Danes Are The Happiest People In The World:

Year on year, Denmark has earned a top-spot on the list according to the UN World Happiness Report and having grown up in Denmark, I can nod yes to this fact.

Then, why are we so happy and how do you get a piece of the pie?

Yes, Danes have a stable government, low levels of public corruption, and access to high-quality education and health care. The country does have the the highest taxes in the world, but the vast majority of Danes happily pay: They believe higher taxes can create a better society.

Perhaps most importantly, however, they value a cultural construct called “hygge”.

The word HYGGE, refers to high-quality social interactions. Hygge is sometimes translated as “cozy,” but a better definition of hygge is “intentional intimacy,” which can happen when you have safe, balanced and harmonious shared experiences. A cup of coffee with a friend in front of a fireplace might qualify, as could a summer picnic in the park.

Research on hygge has found that in Denmark, it’s integral to people’s sense of well-being. It acts as a buffer against stress, while also creating a space to build camaraderie.

So, it’s time to get your HYGGE on & snatch up some of that happiness!

2. Experience A Whole City Just By Riding Your Bike:

It’s true – we’ve spent hundreds of years to create a city that is completely functional just by riding your bicycle. Bicycle paths are almost as wide as a normal car-lane, because there are actually more bicycles in Denmark than there is people – crazy, right?

Copenhagen is flat as a pancake, which makes sightseeing ideal on a bike and in return, you get your adrenalin rushing & your blood pumping and it all helps to promote those happy-hormones in your brain, too. Cultural + Happiness + Exercise = Win, Win, Win.

(Tip: Rent a Donkey Rep Bike which is through an app on your phone and located on most streets throughout Copenhagen)

3. Copenhagen Is EXTRA-Green:

The post THE TOP 5 REASONS YOU SHOULD PUT COPENHAGEN ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET LIST appeared first on Caroline Høgh Groth.

I’m about to head on a 25-hour flight(s) to Denmark next week, so these are the 15 essentials I bring with me.

Have you thought about them all?

#1 – Neck Pillow:

A lot of you will think: ‘Isn’t this a given?!”. But, there are soooo many people who travel without one. And what if you end up in the mid-seat with no windows to lean up against and you’re fighting your neighbour for the armrest? My pointe exactly! Neck-pillow to the rescue.. Allow yourself to spend $40 on a neck-pillow and catch some ZzZ’s on the plane before your arrival. Sleeping on the plane will also help your jetlag when you arrive at your end destination.

Foam Travel Neck Pillow from Cotton On

#2 – Fuzzy Socks:

How many times have you been on a flight and you’re freezing (to death!)? If your feet are cold, it won’t matter how much you try to heat up the rest of your body, it just won’t work. Bring a pair of fuzzy socks from home that you can slip on to keep you warm. Bonus points if you also bring a pair of compression-socks to wear underneath them to help DVT – no matter what age you are!

Fuzzy Socks from Rubi Shoes

#3 – Good Headphones:

I see so many travellers always relying on the little earphones that the airlines hand out on the flights. Most of the time, though, people have too small ears for the ear-phone to fit into, and they’re of such poor quality that you don’t block any of the noise out from the aircraft, leaving you with having to listen on the highest sound-level resulting in a splitting headache.

I always bring a pair of Head Phones and the cable – which means they both work with bluetooth (off the plane) and on the plane. Normally the airlines has a splitter so you can insert it into the screen, but you might want to bring one just in case.

My favourites I’ve had for years are the Beats Solo by Dr. Dre as they collapse together to take up minimal space in your carry-on.

Beats Solo 3 by Dr. Dre

#4 – Facial Wipes:

The first thing I do when I get on a long-haul flight, is to take off all my makeup so my skin can breathe. The air is very different on a flight, so you want to give your skin the best chance to stay healthy whilst you’re travelling.

They also double up as serviets after you’ve eaten on the plane.

3 in 1 Micellar Wipes from Burt’s Bees

#5 – Face Oil:

The air on a flight is a lot dryer with not much moisture which means your skin will dry out a lot quicker than when on land. Simply bringing a face oil to apply (after you’ve removed makeup – remember face wipes) eliminates that problem quickly and efficiently.

I use an oil like Jojoba from The Jojoba Company because it doubles up as a cuticle-oil and hand-creme for me and I also use it on my dry hair-ends and as a makeup remover. Products that double up are great for travelling because it means more space in your suitcase for other things (read: shopping!).

Pure Jojoba Oil from The Jojoba Company

#6 – Under Eye Masks:

I don’t know about you, but after a 25-hour flight, I look pretty darn tired and puffy, even if I’ve gotten some sleep, my eye-area just still won’t settle.

I’ve started bringing little single-pack’s of eye masks on a flight to boost hydration and help with dark circles and puffiness underneath my eyes, when I fly. You feel (& look!) a lot fresher when stepping of that plane.

Pack Your Bags Undereye Patches from Tarte @ Sephora

#7 – Silk Sleep Eye Mask:

.. and to help you shut out the light, tv-screens and other distractions, bring a silk sleep mask – silk, because it’s gentle on your skin and won’t promote wrinkles – on your flight to feel comfortable and help you catch some better ZzZ’s without disturbances.. Plus, you’ll look chick AF.

Slip Sleep Eye Mask from Slip @ Sephora:

#8 – Water Bottle:

It’s so important to stay hydrated, but even more so when you’re flying. You don’t want to constantly be asking the cabin-crew for a paper-cup of water-refills. It takes too long, and the staff will be tired of you before the flight is over.. Instead, bring a large water bottle they can top up for you once in a while, and it will remind you to drink more as well.

Rose Quartz Crystal Infusion Water Bottle from Maaemo

#9 – Large Scarf:

You won’t just look über chick as you arrive in the airport and board the plane, the scar will also double up as a blanket if you get cold on the plane, or extra cushioning for your head if you get the window-seat and want to sleep up against the wall.

Printed Soft-Feel Scarf from Zara

#10 – Glasses & Contacts

If you’re like me who uses daily contact-lenses, it’s a good idea to bring your glasses on the plane to give your eyes a break from contacts. Also, as I’ve mentioned a few times above, the air on flights are incredibly dry and can cause real dryness in your eyes if you keep drifting in and out of sleep as well.

Bring a pair of specs and ditch the contact-lenses once you’re on the flight. Just keep a spare pair of contacts in your carry-on and you can pop a pair in before you land.

Harper Frames from Bailey Nelson

#11 – Essential Oils & Crystals:

If you’re anything like me, and get a bit of anxiety and stress when you’re stuck in small places (hello economy class!), then stock up on a few essential oils and crystals that helps with stress and anxiety and promotes peace, calm and tranquility.

Essentials oils that are good for anxiety includes:

• Lavender
• Chamomile
• Bergamot
• Rose
• Vetiver
• Ylang Ylang

Crystals can also help to calm your senses and breathing so that you can better settle in.

Crystals that are helpful for promoting peace & calm includes:

• Clear Quartz
• Rose Quartz
• Amethyst
• Black Tourmaline
• Lepidolite

Lavender Pure Essential Oil from In Essence

Zen Rok from Hart Roks

#12 – Fragrance:

As you can’t bring liquids over 100ml on international flights, it’s a good idea to get your favourite perfume in a travel-size. This also means you don’t have to bring the whole bottle, as you probably won’t use all of it during the time you’re away either way.

Santal 33 from Le Labo

#13 – Snacks:

For heavens sake, please bring snacks onboard. Sometimes, I feel like I might’ve starved (ok, over-dramatising but you get it) if I didn’t have my pre-packed snacks for my flights. There are times where I don’t find the food too enticing onboard flights, and there are other times where the meals just simply don’t fill me up or I’m peckish outside of meal-hours and I don’t want to eat candy-bars and pretzels.

Grab a few snacks to bring onboard like fresh fruit, protein-bars, pre-made salads and nuts so you at least have a backup plan when you’re stuck on a long-haul flight.

Choc Coconut Fudge Snack Bar from The Daily Bar 

#14 – Notebook & Pen:

Spend your time in the air to journal and scribble down your thoughts and feelings. It could be about anything that has no importance, or it would be a project or dream you’re working on. You’re in an (almost) undisturbed space, so utilising that time to turn inwards, could be incredibly beneficial.

.. and, having a pen on you always helps when you have to fill in arrival-forms etc.

Pale Pink A6 Notebook Set from The Daily Edited.

#15 – Audiobooks & Podcasts

Why not take the (flight)-time to learn something new? Whether it’s learning about your self through a self-help audiobook, studying a language or listening to your spiritual practice, audiobooks and podcasts are a great way to spend your time usefully whilst being on a flight.

Just remember to download them before you take off, if you have no wifi onboard.

A Course In Miracles from Audible

Last but not least; ENJOY your flight. It’s time to yourself and the outside world, and it can actually be incredibly amazing – even if you DO travel on Economy-class ;)

Caroline xx

The post 15 ITEMS TO BRING IN YOUR CARRY-ON ON A LONG FLIGHT appeared first on Caroline Høgh Groth.

Port Douglas or ‘Port Doggie’ is a town on the Coral Sea in tropical far north of Queensland, Australia. It’s known for its beach resorts and as a base for visits to both the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest reef system, and Daintree National Park, home to biodiverse rainforest.

Pash and I travelled to Port Douglas on a Tuesday afternoon. We caught a Virgin Australia flight directly from Sydney to Cairns – it only took us 2,5 hours and we were in tropical Queensland.

We decided to rent a car and drive down to Port Douglas, which is about an hour drive from Cairns Airport – it’s super quick and you have beautiful views driving all the way along the coast-line of the Coral Sea.

As we arrive into Port Douglas, we’re heading straight towards QT Resort Port Douglas where we’ll be staying for 3 nights.

The Resort; QT Port Douglas

Port Douglas is mainly resorts with huge swimming pools. One of those reasons are that in Summer-time, you can’t swim at the beaches as Stingrays stay close to shore as well as crocodiles (yep!).

We stayed at QT Port Douglas as they’re now offering a Fitcation package. This means you basically go away, but still exercise and keep fit, as you would do at home, but with all the relaxation on the side-line, too.

In the Fitcation package a PT-Consultation, a Workout Session, a Yoga class and a visit to the SpaQ is included, which we both fully took advantage of. QT Port Douglas also has 2 tennis-courts, and a lap-pool which we swam in every morning. Nothing beats starting your morning with exercise!

After our morning exercise we proceeded to the buffet-breakfast at BAAAZAR – QT‘s in-house restaurant – to have eggs, fresh fruit and loads of smoothies. There’s everything your heart desires along with daily papers so you can keep up-to-date with the world, however, I feel like Port Douglas is a place where you want to settle into the peace ad quietness and forget about everything else for a few days.

We also spent lots of time floating on bean-bags in the pool (YES!) and practicing acro-yoga, playing ping-pong in the reception and having midday naps in the hammock under the trees.

The staff at QT Port Douglas was also incredibly friendly and helpful with local knowledge and recommendations for restaurants and sights around Port Douglas.

The Nature:

This was one of my favourite things about Port Douglas; The Nature surrounding you.

Regardless of what direction you’d look in, the view would keep getting better and more beautiful than the previous one you’d just laid eyes on

A few standouts and must-dos’s:

Four Mile Beach: This is just so stunning. Especially if you head down for sunrise. The water is completely still and the sun is peaking up over the water and throwing sun-rays through the beautiful tree’s surrounding the beach. A grea spot for a morning meditation or yoga. There’s also a ‘fenced’ swimming-bay within the beach thats patrolled by lifeguards and is safe to swim in.

Mossman Gorge: Nestled in the World Heritage Listed Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge contains the oldest, continuously surviving rainforest on earth. Take the little bus from the centre up to the Gorge and be prepared to swim in what is some of the clearest and cleanest water you’ve ever faced. It’s also beautifully cool combined with the very hot and humid air-temperature that rules in North Queensland. It’s a stunning walk from the bus, through the rainforest and to the Gorge itself, and there’s heaps of opportunity to spot wildlife everywhere you look.

Sunset Sailing The Coral Sea: Pash surprised me with going sunset-sailing on Valentine’s Day, which was just absolutely perfect and so relaxing. As it’s so hot in Port Douglas in Summertime, getting on the water and feeling the air slowly cool you down is incomparable! Soak up the peace and tranquility of a tropical sunset over the Coral Sea with spectacular mountain views and prepare to walk off the boat feeling ZEN!

The Food:

It was a bit hard to experience Port Douglas to it’s fullest as we went in their off-season. Most restaurants and cafe’s close down over Summer because it’s simply too hot in Port Douglas.

However, we did get to taste a bit of the local seafood which Far North Tropical Queensland is known for, and if you do end up heading into town a few places to visit on your list should be The Little Larder for breakfast or lunch and Hemingway’s on the pier for a sunset dinner and drinks.

I can’t wait to head back to Port Douglas and Cairns in general – there are so many more places in the surrounding area I want to visit and experience the beautiful nature in our country. I also think Port Douglas would be amazing to visit in their high-season which is during Winter – they’re promising a balmy 27 degrees then. Sign me up!

Caroline x

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Over the years I have become more and more of a frequent flyer, and I know the importance of being comfortable, especially on a long-distance flight. Feeling refreshed, well-rested and in good spirit when you step off that plane makes a big difference for my first few days in the foreign country I’ll be spending a bit of time in.

I have chosen to fly American Airlines a fair bit over the past few years. I love their great service and kindness that is always received from staff whichever class you fly, the options of dietary requirements you are presented with and the planes are up-to-date, modern and comfortable.

Below is a review of the SYD to LAX route which I flew in April (of this year).

*Disclaimer: I paid for my own economy ticket & was lucky to be upgraded to Business by American Airlines upon arrival at SYD Airport. All views & opinions are that of my own.

American Air SYD to LAX

Plane: Boeing 777-300ER

Seat: 13J (window seat)

Layout: Middle-seats face each other on an angle (great for couples), window seats face windows for more privacy – 52 business class seats in total.

When you board, you’ll be walked to your seat by a cabin attendant, who will immediately offer a beverage (champagne, perhaps?) and offer to take your carry-on luggage as well as handing out the menu. Shortly after takeoff the crew came by to take my menu-order for the length of the flight

Also, after takeoff I was offered my choice of beverage and a snack of warm nuts whilst waiting for the first course. Orange Juice all the way because alcohol dries out my skin on the flight. (Sorry!)

* Note: If you do have any dietary requirements you can inform AA about this prior to your flight (vegan, kosher, etc.)

I opted for the following:

Dinner: Red Snapper with honey-roasted pumpkin and green beans

Dessert: Chocolate Sundae (yeah I did!)

Breakfast: Traditional American Breakfast

Snacks: Cheese Plate & fruit

The overall quality & cook of the food was delicious. I really liked the red snapper with the vegetables and it’s nice to see that airlines are starting to include many more greens instead of huge portions of animal protein.

What I love is that American Airlines try to incorporate organic produce wherever they can. Massive brownie points!

The breakfast was nice, but I found it could’ve been a bit more inventive on that front.

Ultimately, one of the best things about flying business class is that you get to sleep comfortably.

The seats lay completely flat and the armrest on the aisle can pop up or down, so the up position grants you a little more privacy. The pillow was soft and the blanket was nice and had good weight. The cabin temperature was pretty warm, so sleeping with the blanket was optional. Overall it was very comfortable and an excellent option for an overnight flight.

You also get PJ’s handed out as you onboard the flight along with a cute little amenity kit packed with everything you need in order to keep you refreshed and for a good nights sleep.

I’m not a huge movie-watcher, however there is a large screen to watch all the entertainment your heart desire including the newest releases of films and series.

You also get a pair of Bose noise-cancelling headphones so you can watch in privacy and comfort of your own seat.

I was very excited to fly business class on American Airlines’ 777-300er and overall it lived up to my expectations. A fine international product, with decent food, good entertainment and a very comfortable seat/bed.

Thanks for getting me to LA safe and sound, AA.

Fingers crossed I am lucky to get an upgrade on the way home, too!

Caroline x

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As my American Airlines flight is arriving early into LAX at 7am, I’m quick through customs and out the door within the hour, arriving at Four Seasons  just before 9.30am (I make a quick pit-stop at Erewhon in Santa Monica for my bulletproof-coffee fix), and I am greeted by a kind bellman and valet-staff.

They kindly help me with my bags, and I drive my car down to the self-park basement (so convenient, and free!) and head up to be greeted by an even nicer receptionist at the beautiful foyer – which is decorated with beautiful Easter flowers by Jeff Leatham – letting me know that my California King Suite unfortunately isn’t ready yet, however they would contact me as soon as it did. Check-in isn’t until 3pm in the afternoon, so this wasn’t a huge problem as I wanted to get out to Canyon and move my body after 14 hours on a plane.

At around 12pm I receive a text-notification letting me know my suite is ready and my bags are in my room – ready for my convenience.

As I arrive to my room I’m greeted by a beautiful platter with chocolates and a nice card welcoming me to the Four Seasons with a wish of enjoying my stay.

The California Suite is light and airy and has a stunning view of the Hollywood Hills & Downtown LA through two step-out balconies – perfect for enjoying the sunrise every morning. French doors separate the sleeping, living and working areas and it has a beautiful soft light throughout the day, but particularly in the morning when the sun is rising and peaking through the curtains – I like to sleep without curtains to be woken by the natural light, but for those who need their heavy beauty-sleep, there are block-out curtains for your convenience.

The bed is a huge king bed and it’s comfy in crisp white sheets, with a whole heap of pillows for your comfort. Don’t like the pillow you have? Request another kind from Four Seasons iPhone app. Yep, they have an app!

The bathroom is even better, boasting both a shower and a deep-sunken bath complete with shower amenities from none other than Bottega Veneta. There are also two fluffy big robes that will keep you warm, toasty and comfy whilst you’re kicking back in the room.

The suite also has a desk with an iPad 2 – it’s perfect for me as I can have a ‘proper’ place to sit down and work without having to go out and sit at a cafe with WiFi. The Four Seasons also provide complimentary WiFi to all its guests which is very handy and ultimately saves you money in the end, as internet can often be an expensive addition to your room.

Culina is the restaurant at Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills and features fresh and seasonal ingredients with vibrant dishes. They have a whole breakfast wellness menu just for the health conscious featuring a complete ‘pick & choose’ juice menu and a health tonic & elixir focus.

My pick is the omelette with veggies and a side-serve of delicious, golden potatoes. I also have a turmeric shot to help my immune defence after the flight.

I also love that Four Seasons Los Angeles have a whole (fully!) equipped training-studio overlooking the gorgeous rooftop pool. I punch out a few workouts down there and I almost have it to myself for most of the time which is a bonus! If you head down for a workout in the morning, you even get served coffee afterwards.

Finish the morning off with a swim in the beautiful pool and enjoy the sun rising. It’s stunning!

If you are looking for a luxury hotel that is focused on health and wellbeing with a convenient and great location, Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is a perfect choice whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure. The suites are big enough to accommodate 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 kids.

Caroline xx

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Fast forward, and I was lucky enough to be flying home in style & comfort on business class with Cathay Pacific 

Now, most of us will go through life never flying business class, because a) it’s a tad pricey and b) you’d rather save the money for something else or c) it’s just simply out of your price-range to even be considering such a luxury.

However, let me introduce you to Cathay’s Business Class – (I think!) a much more affordable alternative compared to other airlines if you do wish to fly comfortably around the world whilst still keeping money in the bank for pleasure when you arrive at your end destination. But don’t think you’re cutting down on the luxurious bit of it because of the better price – because you will still get the same rock-star treatment here!

One of my absolute FAVOURITE things about Cathay Pacific is the layover in Hong Kong. As Cathay’s main airport is Hong Kong they have not 1, not 2, not even 3, but 5 different lounges in the airport for business class travelling passengers and we are talking about high-end luxury lounges that are serviced 24/7 and meets all your needs. Whether it’s relaxing and reading, having a invigorating shower or enjoying a chef-made ramen soup (among other cuisines), these lounges will meet your needs in each & every way.

Now, back to my flights – I flew Sydney – Hong Kong – Dusseldorf and then of course return a few weeks later. This was my first time flying Cathay Pacific and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I have flown business with a few other airlines like Singapore Airlines, Virgin Australia, Qantas and Delta Airlines, so it’s always nice to compare however I certainly wasn’t disappointed with my flights with Cathay Pacific – I mean, if you also just feel a bit grateful for being able to fly Business Class and appreciate life, you will be more comfortable than flying on a cloud.

The staff on my flights were all incredibly welcoming, and catered to my needs whether it was just a bottle of water, a cup of tea or a noodle soup at 5am in the morning when everyone else were asleep but I was up and hungry. One of the staff members even went to the extent of switching my seat to a more comfortable window-row instead of an aisle seat which I was really pleased with.

What I like about the food is that when it’s time to eat, the staff will roll out all the 3 main hot dishes for you to pick from, so you can see what you’d actually like – only downside is if you sit at the backend of the business class, sometimes your 1st choice could already have been snapped up by the rest of the people on the flight, which mine was at one point, but I enjoyed expanding my horizon and digged into something (I’m sure) equally as nice as my 1st choice. And if you’re very particular with your food choices, you can pre-book your meals if you’re a vegetarian/vegan/kosher/low-fat-high-fat you name it, Cathay Pacific seems to have it!

Also on Business Class you get given a cute little pouch with travel-sized Jurlique  products to keep your skin hydrated, vibrant and moist during your flights – you also have full-size Jurlique products in the bathrooms in the business class cabin which I enjoyed refreshing myself with as my skin is certainly not a fan of flying.

But what really is the absolute best bit about flying business class is that you are able to sleep. Sleep on a fully flat-lie bed with delicious cushions and a doona to keep you warm and toasty. Even from my short height (160cm) I have probably another 40-60cm of space at the end of my feet, and I can comfortably sleep in my favourite position: fetal-position. End result? You walk off the plane feeling almost as if you’ve slept in your own bed and can continue your day without en extreme case of dreaded jet-lag.
If I had to change anything it would be to cushion the seat a little bit more for further comfort and ease.

All in all: I very much enjoyed my trip with Cathay Pacific and I certainly will be flying them again. The staff really does make all the difference, and they all made my christmas trip home to my amazing family so much for special.

For more information about where Cathay Pacific flies to in the world visit their website.

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