Goop

I am still surprised that so many of my UK based friends and colleagues have yet to find out about the delights of Goop. Goop is the creation of Gwyneth Paltrow and whilst it seems to attract some unnecessary negative press here in the UK, don’t let that put you off.  I personally find it really informative, easy to read and so laid back that I actually look forward to the latest newsletter arriving in my inbox.

We as a family have tried many of the recomendations on the ‘Go’ section, I highly recommend checking out the locations that Goop offer tips on before your next trip, New York is a particular favourite of mine. I would never have found out about Sushi Yasuda for example, an amazing sushi restaurant which the kids also loved, top tip!

The tone of the entire website is friendly, sassy and informative and you leave feeling as if the information has been hand picked specifically for you. If my website leaves anyone feeling as informed as I after reading Goop, I will be very happy.

It not only offers advice on travel but also fashion, food, health, the list is endless, check it out for yourself - http://www.goop.com/ – you will be delighted that you did!

Babington House

As you drive past Stonehenge into the heart of Somerset, through Frome and into Babington, you are met by a long tree lined drive which takes you to Babington House. This unique luxury hotel feels like your own private country retreat with its relaxed atmosphere and all of the extras which make it feel like home. The luxury rooms, food and drinks and facilities of course make this place special too. Lounge in the outdoor heated pool, it is magical to swim through the steam and see the gorgeous lake and surrounding views. Follow up with a visit to the adjoining rooms for a steam, sauna or an aroma hit, you will feel totally relaxed and refreshed.

Afternoon tea is fantastic, freshly made daily and available from 3 o clock, it can be served to you in the privacy of your room, or in one of the many rooms in the main house, the library, the study or in the bar, my particular favourite. All of the staff are friendly and nothing is too much trouble, the barman even invented a cocktail to suit my mood before dinner, perfect!

Breakfast has to be mentioned too, set in the Orangery, fresh juices, coffees and a delicious comprehensive menu accompanied by a buffet are bought to you whilst you sit and read through all of the complimentary papers. A walk is recommended after, local walks are mapped out for you, wellies are provided, along with bicycles and cycle routes for the more adventurous.

I could write for hours about the delights of a visit to Babington House, my blog has not even touched on the Cowshed treatments and spa, the tennis courts, the amazing facilities for families, etc, etc, however, some things should be experienced and enjoyed first hand as a personal experience with all of the surprise and delight of a first visit. I can not recommend a visit here highly enough, if heaven were a place on earth, this would be it…

www.babingtonhouse.co.uk

Having just returned from a speedy half term trip to New York, I wanted to share my thoughts and experiences of paying ‘that little bit extra’ for Premium Economy on flights with the family.

I rarely write with opinions which may seem extravagant but the Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy experience was so great, I felt I ought to share it with those who are interested, it really is money well spent.

After becoming a parent, (and following a particularly bumpy flight), I have acquired an unwanted fear of flying. I have tried various different ways to overcome this dread, from homeopathic treatments to attending special courses … my recent trial was to fly Premium Economy. What a revelation!

The delights begin as soon as you have paid, (add your flying club membership number), this gives you free miles for your next family holiday, seats are then chosen, (I can personally confirm, the closer you are to the front of the plane, the less bumps you feel)! At the airport designated check in makes the whole boarding process seamless.  Once the bags are marked for “speedy arrival” through the baggage reclaim at your destination, you are ready to board.

Once onboard things get better and better.  As you sit in your spacious leather seat, you are continually given treats from pre flight bubbly, (or juice), to Baileys post dinner. The kids loved the ice creams that were handed around as they sat back and watched the latest movies, they were so content I even managed to read an entire book on the flight, another first!

Special promotions and utilising airmiles make Premium Economy an affordable luxury, I believe in making the journey part of the holiday.  The hope is that one day I will have enough airmiles of my own to try out ‘Upper Class’, I hear such amazing things about it….