Latest news with #Balinese-inspired
NZ Herald
16-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- NZ Herald
Whangārei family's sustainable renovation breathes new life into CBD
She had been working with Ngāti Hine Forestry Trust on potential extracts from trees on its land, and when she found out the building the trust tenanted was for sale, she quickly declared her love for it. Gregory said the 1960s building had potential but was very tired, with an unusable courtyard, 14 different air conditioning units and the top floor leaking from internal gutters. 'Every time it rained a bit more water got inside,' he said. 'But if you squinted you could see there was really good bones - there was potential.' The couple moved into the apartment with Mary Smith and her dog Jaz, initially anxious about the large change from the country. But all quickly found they liked the convenience of inner-city living, with almost everything available within walking distance: including events, art galleries, film nights and an extensive array of eateries. They have also not had any problems with a lack of safety or excessive noise. Mary Smith soon decided she should be putting her green thumbs to use on the green space in the neighbouring car park and Whangārei District Council gave its blessing. She transformed what was an overgrown and weedy grass area with hundreds of plants grown from seed, with the gardening soon spreading across the car park with layers of yuccas, flax, hebes, succulents and other shrubs. Mary Smith said she gets plenty of positive feedback, especially from regular car park users. 'One lady said, 'I love coming to work on Monday seeing what you've done over the weekend'.' Scroll through the photo gallery to see more detail of the renovations: Image 1 of 5: Pete Gregory and Jules Smith are proud of the renovation, which has created an industrial chic office space upstairs. Photo / Denise Piper With the family's love of outdoors evident, the first stage of the Vinery Lane redevelopment was to transform the outdoor area in 2021. Advertisement Advertise with NZME. The couple bought a sliver of land from the council's car park and built an engineered retaining wall, complete with private car park and Balinese-inspired sheltered courtyard on top. In 2022, stage two of the development saw the lower-level office, previously occupied by a small law firm, transformed into a modern, open-plan 50sq m office space. The final, and biggest, stage of the redevelopment took place after Ngāti Hine Forestry Trust ended its tenancy in June 2024. Jules Smith and Gregory took the opportunity to modernise the space, upgrade the seismic rating of the building, and replace the problematic roof and internal gutters. Using local firm DHS Construction, the final stage involved tenting the building, removing the roof and adding considerable structural steel. The new space is a modern, industrial chic office space with exposed metal beams, bagged brick and vintage kitchen light shades from Bali. With the carpet freshly installed, the couple hope to lease the office space now it has been finished. But the finished building is just one half of the renovation story: the other half is the way materials were reused or recycled during the project. With Jules Smith's new business, Again, focused on reusing textiles and the couple discovering 40 to 50% of landfill waste is from construction, they decided to recycle where possible. 'We didn't feel it was right for us to make an improvement to the building but at the same time add to the waste stream going to landfill, when it could be distributed around the community,' she said. Recycling the old materials soon became Gregory's fulltime job, including painstakingly cleaning 7000 bricks, 4.5 tonnes of acoustic ceiling tiles, 14 rimu doors and 250m of Oregon roof beams. A lot of the materials went to projects around Northland, such as tiny homes, while most of the metal could be recycled, he said. Innovation even saw things like 3cu m of mortar rubble being used for hard-fill and treated timber being used by mental health provider Ka Puta Ka Ora Emerge Aotearoa for raised garden planters. The project also used recycled wall panels saveBOARD, made from old milk cartons, to further increase the recycling. Like many grand designs, the project ran over budget and over time, but the final cost was still less than a new building and something that will stand the test of time, Gregory said. 'There's a lot of tired commercial buildings in Whangārei that haven't been shown the love: this is a good example of what you can do to transform it.'
Daily Mail
05-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
Gorgeous $25m Florida Keys mansion where you can arrive by air, land or water
A sprawling Florida Keys mansion has gone up for sale, and it includes a space to park your chopper, boat and seaplane, but at an eye-watering cost. Serenity Cay in Islamorada sits on nearly four acres on the waterfront of Florida Bay waters and is listed for a jaw-dropping $25million. The Balinese-inspired estate features seven bedrooms and ten bathrooms spanning over 6,900 square feet, with vast windows spanning from the floor to the high vaulted ceilings. The estate comes with space for the owner to park their helicopter, boat or seaplane, with two protected docking basins and a boat life. Listing agents, known as The Florida Keys Sold Sisters, Sabrina Wampler and Sarah Ewlad described the estate as 'a blend of tropical elegance and modern luxury'. Florida Bay waters lap onto a sandy beach area and expansive outdoor lanai, next to the estate's own outdoor kitchen and lounging area. Its interior, according to the listing, is a 'seamless fusion of open concept living spaces and private retreats'. The entry way welcomes guests with a view of the bays waters in the living room area. A winding staircase leads to the second floor, with an open landing fitted with glass railings and space to admire the outside view. The primary suite has its own private terrace, a spa-inspired bathroom, and walk-in closets, as well as a view over the back of the house onto the water. Custom finishes and hardwoods adorn the home, with an abundance of natural light beaming through the windows over the marble flooring. The home comes with a guest house nestled in its own secluded area with access to the estate's outdoor space and views. Down from the terrace, the homeowner can watch the palm trees sway and the clear waters of the outdoor swimming pool on the patio. French doors open up to the back of the estate, where the water edge pool looks out onto the bay and over the horizon situated in front of a stone jacuzzi. Serenity Cay also comes with its own theater room, media room, gym and an elevator. 'Serenity Cay is not just a home, it's an experience,' according to the listing. French doors open up to the back of the estate, where the water edge pool looks out onto the bay and over the horizon situated in front of a stone jacuzzi Islamorada, with a total population of 7,051, sits just 90 minutes south of Miami in the Florida Keys and is made up of several islands spanning 18 linear miles. The area is known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the world and hosts the largest fishing fleet per square mile in the world. Through Islamorada's Environmental Sustainability Plan, residents can enjoy the natural greenery and wildlife as well as reduced energy bills and air quality improvement.
The Herald Scotland
03-05-2025
- The Herald Scotland
5 wellness hotels across the UK you need to book now
With lots to choose from, it can get a bit confusing to know where is best to visit. But, with the help of we've rounded up five of the UK's best wellness hotels you should visit when you need a break. From the Fairmont St Andrews to Montigo Resorts in Somerset, these are five of the UK's best wellness hotels. For travellers booking a last-minute break before May 26, you can save 25% or more on selected hotels, and you'll earn 50% more rewards on all properties too. You just need to travel by 30 September 2025 to make the most of being a loyalty member. 5 of the best wellness hotels in the UK Fairmont St Andrews Fairmont St Andrews is on Scotland's east coast and offers a serviced spa. The spa features an indoor pool, treatment rooms, and therapies focused on sleep and personalised facials, helping you relax. Guests get the chance to stay in spacious, elegantly styled rooms, with select suites featuring private hot tubs overlooking the golf course or the sea. Find out more about Fairmont St Andrews via Montcalm Mayfair, Autograph Collection Montcalm Mayfair, Autograph Collection is described as a contemporary hideaway near London's Hyde Park. The boutique wellness spot includes a modern gym, plunge pool, whirlpool, and a spa offering Ayurvedic rituals and modern therapies. Plus, some suites even offer in-room spa baths and private hot tubs for the ultimate urban retreat. Find out more about Montcalm Mayfair, Autograph Collection via Montigo Resorts Somerset In Somerset, the Montigo Resorts bring Balinese-inspired serenity to the English countryside. The wellness resort has a range of relaxing features, including outdoor yoga, farm-to-table dining, and a spa equipped with hydrotherapy pools, an outdoor hot tub and sauna. Guests at the Montigo Resort can stay in stylish lodges and suites, with select accommodations offering private terraces and outdoor hot tubs ideal for starlit relaxation. Find out more about Montigo Resorts Somerset via The Langley, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Buckinghamshire The Langley is an elegant hotel with a vast underground spa, a Himalayan salt sauna, a marble hammam, and cutting-edge fitness facilities. Rooms at the Langley offer a combination of walk-in showers and deep tubs. For more relaxing treats, there are also spa suites which feature private steam showers and luxury soaking experiences. Find out more about The Langley, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Buckinghamshire via Recommended Reading St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel London Find out more about the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel London via The grand St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel London is a mix of Victorian grandeur with a luxurious subterranean spa. The spa features a relaxation pool, hydro loungers, and treatments like cryotherapy facials. Guests can stay in lavish, historically inspired suites, many of which feature a combination of rainfall showers and deep soaking tubs, perfect for unwinding after a day in the city.
Glasgow Times
03-05-2025
- Glasgow Times
5 wellness hotels across the UK you need to book now
Whether your idea of a peaceful getaway is being treated at a spa, relaxing by a pool or being surrounded by beautiful countryside, the UK has lots to enjoy. With lots to choose from, it can get a bit confusing to know where is best to visit. But, with the help of we've rounded up five of the UK's best wellness hotels you should visit when you need a break. From the Fairmont St Andrews to Montigo Resorts in Somerset, these are five of the UK's best wellness hotels. For travellers booking a last-minute break before May 26, you can save 25% or more on selected hotels, and you'll earn 50% more rewards on all properties too. You just need to travel by 30 September 2025 to make the most of being a loyalty member. 5 of the best wellness hotels in the UK Fairmont St Andrews Fairmont St Andrews is on Scotland's east coast and offers a serviced spa. The spa features an indoor pool, treatment rooms, and therapies focused on sleep and personalised facials, helping you relax. Guests get the chance to stay in spacious, elegantly styled rooms, with select suites featuring private hot tubs overlooking the golf course or the sea. Find out more about Fairmont St Andrews via Montcalm Mayfair, Autograph Collection Montcalm Mayfair, Autograph Collection is described as a contemporary hideaway near London's Hyde Park. The boutique wellness spot includes a modern gym, plunge pool, whirlpool, and a spa offering Ayurvedic rituals and modern therapies. Plus, some suites even offer in-room spa baths and private hot tubs for the ultimate urban retreat. Find out more about Montcalm Mayfair, Autograph Collection via Montigo Resorts Somerset In Somerset, the Montigo Resorts bring Balinese-inspired serenity to the English countryside. The wellness resort has a range of relaxing features, including outdoor yoga, farm-to-table dining, and a spa equipped with hydrotherapy pools, an outdoor hot tub and sauna. Guests at the Montigo Resort can stay in stylish lodges and suites, with select accommodations offering private terraces and outdoor hot tubs ideal for starlit relaxation. Find out more about Montigo Resorts Somerset via The Langley, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Buckinghamshire The Langley is an elegant hotel with a vast underground spa, a Himalayan salt sauna, a marble hammam, and cutting-edge fitness facilities. Rooms at the Langley offer a combination of walk-in showers and deep tubs. For more relaxing treats, there are also spa suites which feature private steam showers and luxury soaking experiences. Find out more about The Langley, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Buckinghamshire via Recommended Reading St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel London Find out more about the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel London via The grand St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel London is a mix of Victorian grandeur with a luxurious subterranean spa. The spa features a relaxation pool, hydro loungers, and treatments like cryotherapy facials. Guests can stay in lavish, historically inspired suites, many of which feature a combination of rainfall showers and deep soaking tubs, perfect for unwinding after a day in the city.
Yahoo
08-04-2025
- Yahoo
Here are the best destinations for solo travelers
A solo getaway offers the ideal opportunity to immerse oneself in the authentic culture, history, and expression of a particular destination. There are no limits to where inspiration may take you, nor should there be. Whether it's a Michelin-starred meal or an adrenaline-inducing adventure, with some planning and expert advice, your next solo journey can reach new heights. There may be no better combination than a pint and a good book—and no better destination to imbibe in said lager and literature than Oscar Wilde's birthplace, Dublin, Ireland. Art and cultural historian Dr. Andrew Lear, a scholar of Wilde's work, suggests a hotel with historical significance. 'I highly recommend The Shelbourne, where Oscar Wilde stayed when on a speaking tour in Dublin,' says Lear. Leave room in your suitcase for your literary conquests, whether they be budget-friendly used copies from Chapters Bookshop or one-of-a-kind finds at Ulysses Rare Books. Take your book to a pub with a snug (a private room or alcove), like those found at The Waterloo, featuring natural light and people-watching on Baggot Street. For an afternoon adventure, Lear suggests riding the local DART train along Dublin Bay to Dalkey (20 minutes) to visit the tower where much of James Joyce's Ulysses takes place. If the idea of an all-inclusive resort sounds appealing but the throngs of guests not so much, consider a respite to the private island of Petit St. Vincent, located 40 miles south of St. Vincent. Getting there is an adventure, including a private flight from Barbados to Union Island and a boat transfer. The 115-acre island features secluded one- and two-bedroom cottages dotted throughout the grounds where visitors can get lost in the sound of gentle waves undulating toward the coastline. Alfresco Balinese-inspired spa treatments, yoga, and complimentary snorkeling gear make filling the day a breeze. For those seeking more adventure, utilize the on-site dive center or book a sailing adventure to a nearby island like Tobago Cays. Declared an official wildlife reserve in 2006, the marine park is a snorkeler's dream, featuring a bounty of tropical fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs. (Related: Six things travel teaches you.) If 'hygge'—the elusive Danish definition of well-being—is your idea of an enticing getaway, Copenhagen ranks high for its thoughtful aesthetic and design. Denmark's capital is the ideal locale to spend an afternoon coffeehouse-hopping with a stack of design magazines or wandering along Jægersborggade, a small residential street that's evolved into a cultural hub with art galleries, wine bars, and a seasonal flea market. Nobody knows this better than Nikoline Dyrup Carlsen, architect and founder partner of the Copenhagen-based cross-disciplinary design and architecture studio SPACON & X, whose projects include two-starred Michelin restaurant AOC and contemporary Nordic brewery Folk Kombucha. 'My personal hot spot in Copenhagen is Hart Bakery in Mærsehuset, Holmen,' says Carlsen. 'I absolutely love this old maritime, red-stained house by the water! [It] has terraces on both sides, making it well-fitted for all times of day.' She can also spend hours at HAY House's flagship store on Østergade. After checking out the top-floor showroom, Carlsen recommends visiting the roof terrace overlooking the city for peaceful contemplation. To bring a bit of hygge home, she visits the FRAMA Studio Store 'as frequently as possible' to discover the latest Danish design. Bourbon Street isn't exactly the quiet respite most travelers think of when considering a solo escape. Still, the Crescent City offers plenty of hidden gems that pay tribute to its culturally rich cuisine and cocktail culture. Cane and Table, located a few blocks east of bustling Jackson Square, offers historically inspired rum-centric drinks like the Hurricane & Table prepared with homemade Fassionola fruit syrup or a spicy Bloody Mary topped with a pile of vinegary chowchow. For a refined dining setting that pays homage to the city's historic taverns, Jewel of the South's seasonal menu reimagines pub food where a solo traveler could slink into a cozy corner. (Leave the book at home as the dim lighting and potent cocktails make for better people-watching.) Check into Blackbird Hotel for a serene night's sleep just steps from the Garden District's Magazine Street. This hotel offers 13 uniquely designed rooms, whether you're looking for bright and airy or a deeply saturated enclave with the rustle of oak leaves outside your window. (Related: 6 of the world's most remote destinations to test your inner adventurer.) Ernest White II, executive producer and host of FLY BROTHER, has traveled to 70 countries—most of them solo—but his expedition to New Zealand's South Island only fortified his belief that 'every single human being simply wants to be seen, empowered, and loved.' Traveling by rail offers solo adventure-seekers the opportunity to reach Aotearoa—the Indigenous Māori name for New Zealand. White recommends two one-day excursions: the Coastal Pacific train from the Marlborough wine region to Christchurch or the Tranzalpine trainthat bisects the island from Christchurch in the east to Greymouth on the wild West Coast. Solo travelers looking to connect with local cultures have plenty of opportunities with Māori family-owned businesses like Whale Watch Kaikoura or a day with Te Rua & Sons Pounamu Tours to explore the West Coast and perhaps to find a pounamu keepsake, a jade-like stone indigenous to the region. Also in the West, White recommends Te Waonui Forest Retreat near Franz Josef Glacier for easy access to forest hikes or a thrilling helicopter ride to the glacier. In Mexico City, Jen Tenzer, a travel specialist focusing on solo travel, found a new friend through Airbnb Experiences, where local guide Ricardo Lopez Nacif took her on a tour of his favorite taco spots, followed by a Lucha Libre match and late-night salsa dancing. 'If I had joined Ricardo's tour with friends, we likely would have ended his wonderful tour and gone about our day independently,' says Tenzer. 'Instead, because I was alone, I was open to the possibility of a surprising new experience.' For a stunning stay with views and easy access to the city's historic center, consider Zócalo Central. In a bustling locale like Mexico City, Tenzer believes balance is key. 'It's important to plan at least one key activity each day so that your solo trip doesn't become too lonely, curled up alone in your hotel room,' she says. Tenzer also suggests registering your trip with the U.S. State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). For more solo-worthy discoveries, solo travelers should consider visiting MODO, a boutique museum collection of over 140,000 objects and ephemera dating back centuries, located in the Roma neighborhood. Travel to Japan has surged recently, fueled by an increased interest in winter sports and strong yen currency conversion. While hubs like Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka have plenty to offer, solo travelers may find a multi-day walking expedition more aligned with their crowd tolerance. Walk Japan, which has been leading small group (maximum 12) and self-guided tours for more than 30 years, saw a 27 percent increase in solo travelers in 2024 compared to the previous year. Wayfarer self-guided tours provide logistical and route support for five- to seven-day journeys. Longer walks like the Nakasendo Way, an 11-day journey along the ancient trade route from Kyoto to Edo (modern-day Tokyo), include stopovers in small postal towns at ryokans, which are traditional Japanese inns. Specialized, bilingual guides take the pressure off of navigating unfamiliar territory while facilitating an authentic cultural immersion. (Related: Is the cruise industry ready for the rise in solo travel?) Matthew Wexler is an award-winning editor and writer. He is a member of the New York Travel Writers Association and a contributing editor at GayCities. His work has appeared in Hemispheres, Passport Magazine, Travel Weekly, and ShermansTravel. Follow him at @wexlerwrites.
