Paradise Wildlife Park, Hertfordshire, England

by Emma Bumpus on March 16, 2013

Education, entertainment and experience are the perfect “three Es” for careertraveller and family to go exploring this month.

In constant search of ‘paradise’ and all things unique we enter a dynamic hub of activity that unravels a story of love, dedication, inspiration and ultimate hard work, built around a visionary mix of “Conservation, Education and Fun for all”.

Unlike any other zoo we feel ready for safari amidst a jungle of architectural landscape and 400 animal enclosure, spanning 4 world continents. Refreshments and a VIP tour unleash a discovery to some of the world’s most exotic and endangered species, covering mammals, reptiles, Birds of Prey and Big cats.

Armed with the park’s well-designed menu of a map we become entrenched in this magical kingdom renowned for experience overload, which as a conservation and education led zoo lends itself well to an array of visitors from families and schools to photographers, volunteers, even weddings.

Animal Park kick-starts our escorted VIP tour with an interactive up close and personal animal experience of a hand-reared wallaby, whom abandoned by his mother has been rescued and nurtured by a notable group of experienced staff, including local and international vets, rangers, zoo keepers and volunteers.

The Animal Nutrition Department, careertraveller favourite, is an inspirational resource centre bursting with knowledge and facts underpinning animal welfare, conservation and breeding. Surrounded by an Animal Nursery and Incubation Room, Veterinary and Animal Welfare Room and Animal Records Department, we gain a hands- on insight to the daily running of a wildlife park and educational context of endangered species. Amazing!

A wander through Lorikeet Landing provides an exotic walkway to the Birds of Paradise, who in between mutterings of “hello”, “what’s your name”, reveals a vibrant display of Parrots, African Greys, Harris Hawks, Love Birds, Crows and “Stella”, an 11 year old rescued Eurasian Eagle Owl.

Our multi-coloured journey continues along the elevated wooden Tiger Treetops, an imaginative trail offering stunning panoramic feline views of cheetahs, snow leopards, white lions and tigers. It is here we stop and really appreciate the charity Wildlife Heritage Foundation (WHF), which established by Paradise Wildlife Park, has founded the Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent, home to some of the world’s most endangered Big Cats. Marvellous, evolution at it’s best!

Temporarily bypassing Bunny Town we fondly observe the guinea pigs and Farmyard animals that snort with glee amongst the little ‘uns’, offering treasure in the form of carrot feed pots; demonstrating Paradise think of everything!

Whilst the camels and reindeer fascinate us with their humps and hooves, it is the tapirs that truly impress with their horse and rhinoceros- like appearance! From the Reptile Temple to Bat House we unearth an abundance of fascinating creatures that wow, shock and delight in a variety of intriguing locations, depicting wildlife at it’s best.

Rainforest is a tropical undercover encounter of Marmosets, Tamarins and squirrel monkeys who dazzle us with their acrobatics and human like expressions. Our ranger Connor is a walking wildlife encyclopaedia, who ramps up the tour by bringing us a Three Banded Armadillo from beneath the branch of a hanging sloth. Prehistoric- like in it’s armoured shell, this South American creature reveals only its claws and five toed hind feet as it wraps itself into a ball of protection, exposing the wonders of nature!

Grapes abounding, rests the secret to our final animal encounter, which arrives in the form of an enchanting Ring-tailed Lemur enclosure that delivers a delightful Madagascan primate circus of trapeze gymnastics. Up close we experience their humanoid features and feel privileged by this demonstration of human evolution. Priceless!

The day is not over without a ride on the Woodland Railway, a play in Pirates Cove at Adventure Land and visit to the National Speedway Museum, where the owner of Paradise Wildlife Park, Peter Sampson, displays his speedway accomplishments and passion. Marvellous!

One final glimpse of the Park’s fashionable family Zebra Suite and Tiger/Leopard Apartments reinforces this special part of Hertfordshire is an ever-growing paradise full of treats, fun and unique hospitality, inherited from the genuine love and respect for animal welfare.

A very special thanks to Paradise Wildlife Park for sponsoring this post and giving us an insightful introduction to wildlife conservation through a variety of heartfelt animal experiences.

Further details of the Park and unique animal experiences can be found on their website.

Information of the Wildlife Heritage Foundation in Kent can be found by clicking on the following link.

Additional information on tourist attractions, activities and accommodation in Hertfordshire can be found on the Enjoy! Hertfordshire website.

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Madrid, Spain February 2013

by Emma Bumpus on February 25, 2013

48 hours in Spain’s capital city offers new meaning to “winter “ for careertraveller and family, who in the words of Mark Twain, “catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

Madrid, Madrid, Madrid is a red carpet of resounding charm, elegance and heart warming kind-heartedness that touches the soul; epitomising travel, culture and fashionable family exploration. Kaleidoscopic buildings with romantic balconies overlook cosmopolitan plazas with sweet churro smelling streets and green parks, which dotted with monuments, museums and attractions delivers a sensational careertraveller endorphin rush that resonates.

A 10 mins concierge shuttle service from the airport to our mirage-like Sheraton Madrid Mirasierra Hotel & Spa uncovers our luxury 2 day nest in the form of a relaxed yet intriguing architectural metropolis full of light, space, technology and first class comfort. The glass and marble atrium excites the children, whose eyes capture the glass elevator to club lounge heaven, (all ten floors), whilst the adults smile wickedly under the spell of the Absara Spa!

The excitement bar is raised as we discover our cruise liner-like hotel is the official Real Madrid football team accommodation used before matches.Our suite is a deluxe family harbour bursting with fruit, mod cons, spa bath and travel functionality.

Views of the outdoor swimming pool and al fresco veranda tantalise the children who purr like Madrilean cats or “madrilenos”, a name which with origins dating back to the Christian Reconquest sets it’s roots in the courage of a boy who climbed Madrid’s city wall like a cat to raise the Christian flag! Fantástico!

The elevator to Sheraton Club Lounge provides a Starship Enterprise sensation direct to supreme sophistication, hospitality, tranquillity and snow-capped vistas of the Sierra de Guadarrama. Stunningly unique and preciosa!

A glass of cava is our impetus to grab the 133 bus directly outside the hotel, which transporting us to the city centre within 20 minutes, activates a vibrant fast track tour of the city, aided of course by the legendary Hop on Hop Off Madrid City Tour bus. History reveals itself in the form of world-class art, architecture and heritage, which exuding vitality and tourism places Madrid on the careertraveller “must return” list!

From the top of a double decker bus we admire Madrid’s stunning skyline that reflects symbolic treasures in the form of the Plaza de Neptuno with Neptune fountain, where Atlético de Madrid fans celebrate their victories. The Cibeles fountain in undeniably Madrid’s most important square Plaza de Cibeles, which with encompassing Palacio de Cibeles, Bank of Spain and America House, boldly displays the city’s emblem designed by architect Ventura Rodriguez.

A revitalising stroll around the El Retiro Park provides a stunningly romantic introduction to Madrid’s renowned green heart, which full of natural space, gardens and mediterranean cypress trees, plays host to an abundance of wildlife, including parrots that delight the children.

A city with approximately 80 museums is an excuse to flavour 20th century contemporary Spanish art at the Museo Reina Sofia, including Picasso’s famous Guernica. Our art walk extends itself past the majestic Sabatini Gardens to the Palacio Real or Royal Palace, whose 18th century resplendent exterior takes our breath away.

After a day of magnificent sightseeing, resuscitation takes place in the form of the careertraveller favourite Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed, a plush 11.5-inch mattress oozing first class travel respite. Breakfast is an intelligently sumptuous multi-coloured Color Your Plate Sheraton affair of À la carte, American or Continental breakfast brimming with energy, health and thoughtfulness! An array of beautifully presented cheese and chorizo alongside rainbow coloured fruit, including granola abundant with blueberries, does little to discourage a hint of cava and fine selection of churros and pastries!

Energised and invigorated day two is an exploration of Madrid’s streets, shops and historical buildings with our guided Essential Madrid Tour. From the cobbled “happening” square of Plaza Mayor we uncover 16th and 17th Madrid through an illuminating range of churches, convents and restaurants, including Sobrino de Botín, listed as the oldest eatery in the Guinness Book of Records.

Vapours of authentic Spanish tapas and delicacies intoxicate us from the neighbouring San Miguel Market, providing mouth watering fortune in the form of exquisite seafood, cheese, patisseries, olives, fruit, not forgetting rioja and vermouth! This extraordinary market provides an enlightening afternoon mecca from which to inhale the Madrilean cultural influences.

Supper is an electrifying show and meal at the spectacular Corral de la Moreria or “cathedral of flamenco art” where true skill, passion and agility reveal themselves through traditional dance, music, singing cuisine. Hand clapping, guitar playing and cante deliver a hypnotic aura, which enhanced by an assortment of spectacular flame-red clad professional dancers, delivers a superbly intense evening of unique entertainment most worthy of Patricia Schultz’s “1000 Places To see Before You die” New York Times bestseller.

Performances by Belén López and Joaquín Mulero execute rhapsodic vibrations that hypnotise us with their Andalusian rhythms and lightning footwork, which evokes passion, soul and affection amongst us.

Distinctive dishes of Cep Mushroom with Foie Gras shavings and Crispy Cured Iberian Ham, Premium Spanish Pork Cut (Iberian Secret) with Caramelized Apples, minced Spanish sausage”couscous” and Idiazabal Cheese sauce, with of course mandatory splash of Rioja Crianza from the Menu Moreria, are of course the metaphorical icing on the cake in this magnificent city central Castilian home.

Blown away by the hospitality, emotion and talent of tablao flamenco we are Madrid induced and heartily educated by the Spanish culture, that leaves us wanting to stay………..

A very special thanks to Corral de la Moreria, Sheraton Madrid Mirasierra Hotel & Spa and Madrid Visitors & Convention Bureau (Madrid V&CB) for their outstanding hospitality, warmth and generosity.
Further details can be found by clicking on the links above.

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Sweet Soho, London, England January 2013

by Emma Bumpus on January 25, 2013

Sugar and style kickstart the careertraveller winter wanderlust with a shot of legendary culture in London’s fashionable Soho district.

Geographically situated within the borders of Regent Street, Oxford Circus, Leicester Square and Charing Cross Road we become entrenched in a sensory haven brimming with aesthetic colour, texture and entertainment that unleash the travel junkie.

Carnaby Street reveals it’s bonbon of a boudoir Choccywoccydoodah, a chocolate oasis bursting with delectable handmade cakes, melt pots, popcorn and bespoke chocolate art and craft that define culinary intelligence and pure cocoa imagination.

Trendy boutique views of the Newburgh Quarter from this chic Parisian – like café leave us hungrily hankering for a peek of The Secret Room, a fantasy Charlie and The Chocolate Factory celebratory space designed for heavenly creamy feasts of the highest order! The careertraveller favourite – chocolate salted popcorn!

Bursting with 70% cocoa solid serotonin and endorphins galore, our winter wonderland adventure becomes honey coated with a wander through Berwick Street, an eclectic upbeat community in the heart of London’s Soho. This chirpy urban locality delivers an atmospheric shower of “hotchpotch” independent shops covering associated with textiles and fashion to street food and music – the “Golden Mile of Vinyl!”

From Biddle Sawyer Silks to Gosh Comics we become cocooned in the most vibrant quarter of the capital, synonymous with one of the city’s oldest markets since the 18th century. Enveloped in this fragrant hub of first class coffee shops Flat White, Foxcroft and Ginger and tea specialist Yumchaa, we are seduced by bountiful street eateries including the Dark Knights of Cholesterol who delight street dwellers with their artisan cheese.

Dean Street is our creative cue to replenish with a flavour of London’s International Mime Festival at the contemporary Soho Theatre. Welcomed by neon blue lights and hip front of house café and bar, we extend our sensory quest with a 60 minute Blind Summit show of The Heads – puppetry at it’s best! Intimate visual art set within three dark frames exposes an array of innovative scenes depicting portraiture and cardboard cubism that defines this visionary home of new writing, cabaret and comedy.

A 3-minute walk across Wardour Street awaits our winter treat in the form of The Soho Hotel, a relaxed and glamorous, mood enhancing “peach” that invigorates and inspires the soul. Colour, rhythm and warmth induce the most amazing welcoming sensation that radiates fun and intrigue.

Soho comes to light as we embark on a bespoke tour of this treasure house adorned with stimulating and contrasting fabrics, emitting rainbow infused hues that evoke images of travel and art. Informal yet distinct we unravel the meaning of texture and space through artistic and emotional intelligence within a collection of rooms, designed to please, entertain and relax.

The careertraveller favourite is a mix of the Crimson Bar that induces a rich sense of the exotic with vivacious colours and Moroccan interiors to the Black and White Room, oozing flamboyant “movie star” appeal with bold stripy furnishings, flower paper back wall paper and vintage film spotlights. Marvellous!

Two Movie Rooms later and a wander round the Refuel Bar with oil can artefacts and engaging wall mural reveal the hotel’s previous multi car park foundations! Soho Winter Tea calling in the Drawing Room is our introduction to a chic and decorative playground, radiating smooth textural warmth that transcends any contemporary mood board.

Mouth-watering delights emerge in the form of brie and cranberry wraps, bursting with fresh rocket, which with accompanying sausage rolls and apple sauce offer winter a new literary meaning!

Thawed and charmed we indulge perfumed gems in the form of sherry trifle, tiffin cake and careertraveller favourite, spiced date and orange cake, with it’s impeccable consistency. The speciality Jasmine Silver Tip tea with hand mixed needles and fresh jasmine flowers provides a bouquet of a memory that crystallises the whole sweet Soho experience.

Chinatown adds a further dimension to Soho with her vibrant assortment of shops, cafes and eateries, including Kowloon Bakery, whose patisseries attract flocks of tourists and Londoners.The Opium Dim Sum Parlour‘s jade door is our clandestine 3 storey ticket past the Chinese Apothecary Bar to the Academy where alchemy awaits in the form of an effervescent “bartenders table”. Mysteriously unique and theatre -like, we are welcomed into a luxurious cave that energises and thrills with the magic of oriental essence. Clever!

Orange blossom water, liquor and citrus fruit electrify the palate in the form of the Signature Opium Cocktail No 1, transforming ice, ginseng capsule et al into a smoky salubrious affair of the senses! A visit to the powder room with surround sound Chinese poetry is an innovative celebration of the arts and makes this parlour an ingenious landmark in Chinatown Soho.

After a day of sensory sightseeing we uncover sound in the eminently famous Ronnie Scotts, a sophisticated den that smacks of class, flair and talent. Dim lighting and slinky seating offset a dazzling performance by Deodato who delivers his unique adaption of “Also Sprach Zarathustra (2001: A Space Odyssey) theme.

Clearly a day in Soho proves you can have your cake and eat it!

Very Special thanks to Choccywoccydoodah, Firmdale Hotels, Opium Cocktail Dim Sum Parlour, Ronnie Scotts and the Soho Theatre for their exclusive hospitality.

Further details of Soho can be found on websites Carnaby Street and Berwick street with details of Chinese New Year on the chinatownlondon and VisitLondon websites.

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Christmas is Covent Garden, London, England 2012

by Emma Bumpus on December 28, 2012

An al fresco amphitheatre of a piazza with giant LEGO advent calendar, 65 foot Christmas tree, artisan markets, Royal Opera House and plethora of boutiques introduces an intoxicating cauldron of “sugar and spice” winter wonderland to careertraveller and family.

Greeted by a vibrant display of engaging street performances outside the 17th century St Paul’s Church we discover an enlightening range of fashionable entertainment that oozes historical charm and intrigue. With 13th century roots associated with fruit and vegetables from the convent kitchen garden of St Peter at Westminster, it becomes clear why this cultural haven claims it’s tourist landmark status in the heart of London.

Gigantic festive baubles hanging stylishly above Apple Market enhance the atmospheric zing of mulled wine, which escorts us around dazzling displays of unique handcraft treasures from sweet scented candles to jewellery and toys. Encompassing cafes and restaurants create a cosmopolitan ambiance in this buzzing boulevard, preserved ingeniously beneath an elegant 19th century glass roof.

In between shots of the giant topiary reindeer and 600,000 + LEGO brick Christmas advent calendar we amble flirtatiously amongst a chocolate box selection of chic and specialist shops, including Italian chocolatier Venchi. Marvellous!

More to come is the majestic Royal Opera House, a stunning 18th century theatre devoted to opera, ballet and artistic achievements of performers, choreographers, musicians, composers and conductors. A waltz around the Georg Solti exhibition is a harmonious recital of dazzling costumes, photographs and paintings that celebrate the life and work of the amazing 20th century operatic and orchestral conductor.

Exhilarated and energised we continue our festive pilgrimage with a twist of luxury at the One Aldwych Hotel via a Sugar and Spice Afternoon Tea. Relaxed and bursting with historical charm we enter another theatre of the senses that creates a unique festive experience, leaving us hankering to stay!

As we savour darling sweet and savoury delights of chestnut delice, mince crumble tart, stilton/ walnut quiche and turkey, stuffing and cranberry relish sandwiches, we discover our celebratory tea lies within a hotel “of an art gallery”. Housing 350 contemporary art pieces dotted around the public spaces and guest rooms, we are not disappointed.

The children sit admirably content beneath the sparkling gingerbread tree, which adorned with cinnamon smiles, provides a merry centrepiece in the beautifully colourful and spacious lobby bar, radiating excellent hospitality. The orange and cinnamon spiced champagne cocktail brings Christmas to Covent Garden, awarding quintessential afternoon tea a seasonal wintery zest. A fabulous careertraveller favourite!

Enthused and infused we allow Pedro, the most enthusiastic and professional head Barman, to introduce us to the art and science of mixology, with of course the One Spritzer from the One Aldwych Cocktail Collection. Delivered in a carafe of homemade raspberry and rhubarb syrup, aromatic bitters and champagne with ice that smoulders, we enjoy the sweetest of afternoons in genuine Mary Fox Linton award winning interior style.

An inquisitive careertraveller peek of the 18 metre chlorine free swimming pool with underwater music is unavoidable and provides a sleek contrast to the former print presses, which once occupied the former Morning Post newspaper building built in 1907.

Filled with warmth and festive spirit the excitement bar is raised with a trip to the Build A Bear Workshop store which supplies an interactive mist of traditional childhood fun, enchantment and affection associated with the “Teddy Bear”.

As guests we enter a fantasy furry labyrinth of quality, choice, vision and exceptional hospitality, comprised of eight stuffed animal making stations that entertain and educate the whole family. First stop, Choose Me, the children choose their character, followed by Hear Me, their sound chip selection which provides atmospheric roars, giggles and meows galore!

Stuff Me delivers pure wholesome “huggability” and a scented heart with dolce hints of candyfloss, chocolate or bubble gum. Fabulous! After insertion of a barcode at Stitch Me (clearly they think of everything) we enter Fluff Me, our chance to brush and groom our fleecy new friend!

As we travel this unique sensory journey we feel heartened and inspired with the attention to detail and being good “Teddy Bear” philosophy that empowers and supports children and families with the Stuffed with HugsT, Huggable Heroes® program and Build-A-Bear Workshop Foundation. Nice touch.

Dress Me, Name Me and Take Me Home with birth certificate and travel carrier completes our fluffy mission, which with a final meander across the piazza ablaze with over 150,00 lights and London’s largest Christmas tree, transports Christmas to Covent Garden!

Special thanks to One Aldwych Hotel and Build A Bear Workshop for a fabulous day out in Covent Garden.

Details of the Royal Opera House and Covent Garden can be found on websites Royal Opera House and Covent Garden.

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Christmas at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire England December 2012

by Emma Bumpus on December 14, 2012

History, landscape and, architecture with a festive twist of santa, storytelling and the exotic, infuse a rather noble careertraveller journey through Christmas that depicts ‘The Story of The Three Kings’ at Blenheim Palace.

Entering 2100 acres of luxuriant carpet landscape, peppered with forest trees and fashionable “Capability Brown” azure lake , we revive the words of Lord Randolph Churchill “This is the finest view in England”.

Within this citadel-like estate we become sublimely cocooned in the heart of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds and step back in time as we approach the Great Court, a celebration of English Baroque architectural glory and UNESCO world heritage.

Steps into the palace set the pulse racing as we are greeted by a magnificent 67 – foot high Great Hall with Sir James Thornhill’s ceiling and stone carvings. Giant Christmas trees adorned with golden decorations deck the hall with complementary palm trees that sparkle with kaleidoscopic colours of the Far East. Tastefully elegant!

Giant golden baubles and leaves with bunches of striking turquoise peacock feathers unravel an inspiring trail of the arts along lengthy corridors of ruby red carpet fit for royalty! We discover treasure in the aesthetic form of bronze and marble sculptures, Meissen and Sevres porcelain, fine portraits and tapestries via the opulent Green, Red and Blue Drawing Rooms. Chronicling 300 years of history we come become acquainted with The Dukes of Marlborough and Marlborough (Spencer-Churchill) line of descent.

The Churchill Exhibition provides a rousing insight to the national hero whose birth at Blenheim Palace began with a fascination for toy soldiers. Through paintings, journals and relics, history reveals itself and is gracefully summarised by his very own words “We shape our building; thereafter they shape us.” Sir Winston Churchill.

The Saloon provides a breathtaking pause for wonder at the dazzling Christmas themed grand table, ablaze with gilded tableware, glittering peacocks and lavish gifts, echoing traces of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Majestic and stately stands this dining room with encompassing murals and ceiling painted by Louis Laguerre, fit for an exquisite Christmas banquet.

We continue our journey through The First, Second and Third State Rooms, which draped with Victory Tapestries depicting battlefield scenes, display a magnificent array of ornate artefacts and furniture across the centuries. The careertraveller favourite – Long Library is said to be the second longest room in any house in England, which housing over 10,000 books, has served the wounded in World War One and MI5 throughout the Second World War.

Respite comes in the form of a Cotswold pastry to celebrate the palace’s seasonal pie festival, which after Christmas storytelling in the chapel and a visit to Santa’s grotto in the stables displays the endless array of family entertainment Blenheim Palace offers.

A ride to the Pleasure Gardens via the “Sir Winston Churchill” mini train escorts us to fertile mini metropolis with adventure play area, Butterfly House, evergreen Lavender Garden and famous Marlborough Maze, the second largest labyrinth in the world!

A romantic walk across the legendary Vanbrugh Bridge is our cinematic vista of this dramatic winter wonderland backdrop, which has played host to film productions such as Gullivers Travels, Hamlet and Warner Brothers Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Sensational!

As for the Water Terraces, Italian Garden, Secret Garden, Water Terraces, Orangery and Champagne Bar – well, just another excuse to revisit this majestic pleasure dome of all things great. Blenheim Palace is Christmas come early!

Details of the “Lights, Camera, Action – Blenheim Palace The Star or TV and Film” Special Exhibition 9th February – 1 April 2013 can be found on the palace “What’s On” link. Visiting information including winter walks and special events throughout the year can be found on the Blenheim Palace website.

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Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, London November 2012

by Emma Bumpus on November 28, 2012

Festive fun, ice adventure and artisan markets, encircled by radiant rides and glitzy illuminations, provide the ultimate careertraveller opportunity of sampling the capital’s seventh seasonal pleasure dome.

Take 350 acres of a Royal Park, add the UK’s largest outdoor Ice Rink, 200 tons of Magical Ice Kingdom and a very Big Top. Decorate it with lashings of iridescent attractions beneath a starry Giant Observation Wheel, then prepare to enter a magical dominion that revives the wonders of winter in London.

As we enter this fantasy film set, dotted with Santa Claus, reindeer and snow, euphoria kicks in. The little ‘uns’ hijack Santa Land, which after a wet and windy 5D cinematic bolt to Lapland, justifies an imminent mulled wine reindeer ride on the 360-degree revolving Carousel Bar – fabulous!

A wonder round the Ice Kingdom exhibits a winter palace of fairy-tale woodland ice creatures set within a stalagmite ice forest. A slide down the ice castle and seat in the mystical unicorn-pulled carriage, careertraveller favourite, delivers an enchantingly unique display of over 500 ice and snow sculptures. Remarkable!

Laughter, hot chocolate and rainbow coloured candyfloss intensify this sweet and honey coated ambience that twinkles with cool arctic entertainment and music, capturing the spirit of Christmas.

A traditional glide down the helter skeltar is our wonderland slide to Chilly Willy Penguin Ride, North Pole Fun House, Polar Bear Island and breath taking Snow Jet, which executes the perfect 21st century sleigh ride, most suitable for James Bond!

Yuletide Market provides a merry walkway of authentic handcraft Christmas treasures featuring wooden toys and tree decorations that echo the nativity celebrations of Christmas. Captivated by the scent of bratwurst bars and Glühwein, we gather heated respite at the Bavarian Village, an oasis of aromatic winter festivity.

A sky-scraping gondola ride above this glittery empire provides stardust views of Hyde Park, illuminating the Serpentine Lake, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain and Speakers Corner. Soaring this majestic recreational playground provides us with historical images of royalty, celebrations, banquets and fashionable carriage rides throughout the centuries.

Previously home to Henry VIII private hunting ground in 1536, Diamond Jubilee and London 2012 Olympic events, we discover the wonders of Hyde Park as one of London’s eight Royal Park’s that attracts millions of tourists, families, friends, celebrities and Londoner’s every year.

Our Grand Finale comes in the wizardry form of Zippos Cirque Berserk, a thrilling and mystical contemporary display of aerialists, ultimate High Wire, quad bikes, fire, strange characters and motorbikes all under a big tent! Artistic and spellbinding, this is no ordinary circus as we capture a truly inspirational carnival of flamboyant skill and mesmeric entertainment that exhilarates and electrifies the audience.

An elegant gothic storyteller “circus master” unravels and narrates forbidding fairy tales, which adapted and inspired from the brothers Grimm, delivers a theatrical show of daredevil stunts amongst a travelling band of bizarre gymnasts.

A human hamster cage Globe of Death provides centre stage drama with the performance of four motorcycle riders racing collaboratively up to 60 mph. Heart pumping adrenalin awards a dreamy ice skating session on the glitteringly romantic Ice Age 4 Rink, which located prettily around the historical Victorian band stand transcends the pure magic of winter wonderland. Marvellous!

Further details of Winter Wonderland can be found at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland and for information about London’s royal parks click on The Royal Parks website.

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Passage to Nord-Pas- de- Calais, France – November 2012

by Emma Bumpus on November 7, 2012


History, architecture and cultural heritage form the perfect Half Term break for careertraveller and family to embark upon a traditional English Channel voyage, with of course signature luxury twist.

Priority boarding our P&O Spirit of Britain floating palace is no ordinary experience, which within minutes transforms our wheels to sea legs effortlessly, with direct route to the club lounge, perfect! Champagne calling, we occupy plush surrounds offering intoxicating views of the Strait of Dover, one of the busiest international seaways in the world, offering 46 ferry crossings a day.

Whilst the children revel in luxuriant space, capturing the sea spray from the rather special sun deck, the adults indulge first class steward service from an array of stylish seating, making the next 90 minutes pure undiluted bliss!

As we set sail our journey is exalted upon sight of the dramatic chalky White Cliffs of Dover that shimmer in the crisp autumnal breeze, giving us cause to celebrate P&O’s 175th birthday anniversary.

A cruise around the ship provides an illuminating insight to the communal on board facilities, which cover everything from mini department store shops to family lounge, eateries, terrace bar, video arcade, bureau de change, not forgetting lashings of oceanic panorama from the outside deck.

Land ahoy; we approach the Côte d’Opale or “Opal coast” that glimmers with 120 km of beaches and cliffs between Calais and Berck-sur-Mer, including the majestic Cap Blanc Nez or “Cape white nose”, whose stunning headland topped with obelisk commemorates the Dover Patrol, who kept the Channel free from U boats during World War 1.

A jolly jaunt around Calais provides a bygone display of monuments, museums and historic buildings that fill the air with an enlightening joie de vivre, surpassing any hypermarket association! The Belfry, careertraveller favourite, captures the eye, which standing 75 metres high celebrates the reuniting of Calais and Saint Pierre in 1885. This Town Hall architectural jewel radiates UNESCO world heritage status, overlooking Auguste Rodin’s bronze Burghers of Calais memorial, depicting the heroism of six men during the Hundred Years War in 1347.

A stroll along the canal to the stylish Cite international de la dentelle et de la mode or International Centre of Face and Fashion adds a trendy European appeal within a 19th century lace factory. An artistic display of 10,000 lace collections and 3,200 costumes and objects from the world of fashion uncovers haute couture, looms, bobbins and the industrial journey of lace with origins in Nottingham, England 1816.

The Musée de Mémoire 1939-1945 is a Museum of Memory genuinely situated in a Second World War bunker, which set in the pretty St-Pierre Park reveals a startling contrast of the rich cultural heritage within Pas-de-Calais. Dazzled by 23 rooms bursting with military relics, weapons and history we are momentarily stirred as we recount the German occupation of Calais and British soldiers who helped passing through.

Memoirs uncovered, our cultural pilgrimage is not over as we prepare for our regal hotel experience at Château de Cocove, member of Châteaux & Hôtels Collection. A 15-minute drive from Calais takes us to an enchanting 18th century escape that bewitches our senses,taking us back centuries from the moment we enter this 11 hectare wooded playground, dotted with love seats.

We are romanticised, intrigued and captivated by this majestic estate, which unveils images of aristocracy, artists, authors and German occupancy, all historically sealed with distinguished charm, fine art and legacy. Beautifully unique!

Entering Les Jardins Du Château is our pièce de résistance paradise of a 2 up 2 down family room of a house, which chapel – like with all mod cons, rests peacefully near the estate’s orchard. Formidable!

Dinner is a banquet set within an elegant yet rustic ambience adorned with subtle antique artefacts and paintings that echo the passion, courage and tradition behind this stately bolthole, steeped in history dating back to an original tenth century settlement.

Gourmet cuisine from a restaurant awarded “Maître Restaurateur” status is a culinary French adventure perfected with a hamper arrival of assorted cheeses from Maître Fromager Philippe Olivier, a renowned local cheese master in Pas-de-Calais.

A tour of the wine cellar is a mandatory careertraveller finale to our illustrious manor house adventure that epitomizes the importance of travel and all things French! C’est merveilleux!

Our expedition is incomplete without a nearby trip to Nausicca, the blue planet of Boulogne-sur-Mer; France’s primary centre devoted to discovering and sustaining marine life. Home to over 35,000 fish we dive into a globe of deep-sea conservation, exploration and space that covers climate change, responsible tourism and amazing animals such as Aldabra giant tortoises and dragon seahorses.

Whilst the children marvel at spectacular lagoon views of the Californian Aquarium sharks from the pontoon and Underwater Observatory, we become submerged in threatened species and the importance of coral, amongst innovative interactive exhibitions and activities that educate and fascinate the whole family. Another great mission accomplished!

A very special thanks to P&O Ferries,Châteaux & Hôtels Collection, Calais Tourist Board and Nausicca aquarium for part sponsoring this post.

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Jewels of London, England, October 2012

by Emma Bumpus on October 15, 2012

A blast of London sightseeing provides the perfect autumnal fizz required for careertraveller and family to sample the city’s delights with a quirky royal twist.

A ride along the underground is our passage to splashdown, where our buttercup yellow amphibious vehicle awaits in the form of London Duck Tours. Prior to quacking we are seated in a 1940s D-Day Landing half boat half truck or DUKW, which decodes as:

D = First year of production code “D” is for 1942
U = Body style “U” utility truck (amphibious)
K = Front wheel drive
W = Two rear driving wheels (tandem axle)

Ready for tourist action or rather attraction we soldier past some of London’s most historical and classical landmarks in authentic day-tripper military style. Captivated by the most entertaining tour guide, who simulates Donald Duck in between quacking snippets of fascinating London history, we commence cultural combat!

Exhilarated and inspired we discover architectural gems in the form of Buckingham Palace, Wellington Arch, Tate Britain, Nelson’s Column, Westminster Abbey, MI6 and Downing Street, ablaze with troops of avid sightseers. Streets dotted with luxury London hotels including the Ritz, Royal Horseguards and Athenaeum, we become entrenched in the fame, royalty and attractions which make London one of the most diverse and exciting cities to visit in the world.

Splashdown, careertraveller favourite, is our moment of truth, revealing a fun-tastic unique and adventurous tour of London. A slow and steady launch into the glitteringly composed Thames unleashes an aquatic roar of photographic euphoria, capturing inimitable shots of London Eye, Houses of Parliament and Vauxhall Bridge. Fabulous experience!

Upon disembarkation, a breath-taking stroll along Southbank provides a cultural playground from which to feast our eyes upon Westminster’s stunning skyline that sparkles class, antiquity and traditional celestial treasure!

Dazzled by London’s jewels approves a tour of Buckingham Palace, which glitters amidst its special exhibition Diamonds: A Jubilee Celebration. In the steps of James I (r.1603-1625) – King George VI (r.1936-1952) and Queen Elizabeth we pass the Quadrangle that plays host to carriage processions on ceremonial occasions.

Like royalty we climb the Grand Staircase, which with gilt bronze balustrade leads to 19 staterooms, 775 rooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms, upon which we enter the working headquarters of Her Majesty The Queen!

Theatre-like, we discover the pioneering work of architect Robert Nash, who between 1821-1830 was responsible for the enlargement and modernisation of Buckingham House, hence Palace. A walk through the Staterooms used for official entertaining and ceremonies, facing 39 acres of garden, is our introduction to 350 clocks and watches and 40,000 lights in the building.

Jewellery made from the world’s largest Cullinan Diamond in the form of principal stones set in brooches, necklace and ring, all worn by The Queen, provides a spellbinding atmosphere that celebrates 60 years on the throne by Her Majesty The Queen.

Enlightened and gratified we continue our regal pilgrimage with an aristocratic promenade through Green Park, one of London’s notable 8 Royal Parks, and land heavenly in the lap of the luxurious Athenaeum Hotel, perched extravagantly in Piccadilly.

Enchanting and swanky, this is no ordinary hotel, with a fashionable vertical garden bursting with aesthetically bountiful 50 shades of green! Visually artistic, textural and tapestry-like we discover the botanical architecture and biodiversity of Patrick Blanc, award winning artist and research scientist.

Glamour and excitement occupy the lobby, which glistens with shimmering pearl buttons and various quirky fashionable hotel art and décor. Like wanderlust nomads we explore gastronomic pleasure in the form of the Garden Room and Whisky Bar, with a final destination in the hotel’s chic restaurant fit for movie stars.

Immaculate service, attentiveness and divine cuisine, namely Braised Jacobs Rib with Smoked mash, Beef Marrow Croquettes, Autumnal Cabbage and Shallot Confit and Red Wine Jus provides a noble feast fit for monarchy!

Whilst the children revel in chocolate Brownie and Mini Doughnut Balls for dessert the adults ponder the whisky bar, which with a 270 whisky menu merits it’s own whisky sommelier. Easy to understand why the likes of Marlon Brando, Mick Jagger and Joan Collins have been Athenaeum residents!

Intriguing, intoxicating and upbeat, this is a hotel to remember.

A very special thanks to the Athenaeum Hotel, Royal Collection and London Duck Tours for this sponsored post.

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The Ampersand Hotel, London August 2012

by Emma Bumpus on September 4, 2012


Cultural playtime and gastronomic treats, with a twist of va-va-voom furnishings in the heart of London’s museum district, is the perfect boutique weekend getaway for careertraveller et al.

A breeze to South Kensington on the underground Piccadilly line is our journey to intoxicating pleasuredom, history and luxury of a seriously unique kind.

Entering this beautifully restored Victorian building, we hastily capture the opulent turquoise and ruby tones of the boutique Drawing Rooms, which ooze sumptuous style and resplendent hours of aromatic artisanal coffee, champagne and soulful patisseries. One slice of exotic looking fig tart with an intensely buttery pastry warrants our sojourn with a spontaneous moment of harmonious rose petal meringue indulgence. Divine!

Playful and spirited, we discover a hotel with detail, fun and artistic delights, which melodiously arouse and enthuse the senses. Curious and captivated, we tour lavish meeting and wine rooms adorned with Bacchus before arriving in the careertraveller favourite Games Room.

Like no other, we enter a fashionable playground of leisurely literary delights of table tennis, chess, backgammon and private library! A swift game of ping-pong is our warm up to exploration of the hotel’s notably themed and well-indexed library with classics to travel. Nice touch!

Something for everyone we discover treasure in the form of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl to the likes of Mark Twain and Paul Theroux, of which we become entrenched in blissful legendary recreation of the highest order.

The ignition of the careertraveller culture vulture is our pre dinner aperitif to “pop out” and view the Victoria and Albert Museum’s Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950s exhibition; a show of more than 60 exquisite gowns worn by Royalty, debutantes and celebrities over the decades.

Whilst British history unravels itself in the form of late 20th and 21st century designers Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen and John Galliano, we are presented with a vibrant array of couture pieces fit for special occasions.

A celebration of luxurious fabrics and delicate embellishments provides an elegant reflective display of royal gowns, including Princess Diana’s state evening 1989 “Elvis dress” adorned with tens of thousands of pearls onto silk fabric, designed by Catherine Walker. Spectacular!

An alluring afternoon spent in arguably the world’s leading museum of art and design, renamed in memory of Prince Albert by Queen Victoria in 1899, provides the perfect introduction to Albertopolis in South Kensington.

Stylishly hungry we head back to our chic haven, which welcomes us with effervescent hospitality and a sophisticated boudoir pilgrimage of culturally themed corridors decorated with drawings depicting ornithology, botany, geometry, astronomy and music. Sensational!

Expressive and swish is our Music themed room, which ingeniously part decorated with sheet music, adds a tunefully romantic and enlightening atmosphere – a la mode!

A wander down the 20-foot staircase lighting, ornamented with goose feather wings, is a scintillating cool, clever feature, which alongside tasteful furnishings depicting flowers and ferns, provides a subtle V&A synergy.

Dinner is an orchestra of taster plates that sing from the palate in the hotel’s underground vault of a restaurant, aptly named Apero. Relaxed contemporary seating with trendy pendant lighting provides a stimulating ambience for an assortment of vivacious Mediterranean taster dishes, designed to inspire, entice and educate.

Sumac crispbread with green harissa energises the tastebuds and makes way for gnocchi with rainbow chard and smoked scamorza, which alongside saffron croquettes delivers a mouth watering textural ensemble. The pièce de résistance is calves livers with stewed peppers and chard, which fresh, succulent and light, is pure wholesome food.

A nightcap a la ping-pong and copy of The Traveller’s Daybook by Fergus Fleming is the perfect excuse to retire to our music room and be serenaded by 366 unforgettable journeys. Marvellous!

Breakfast is our excuse to linger and savour the pleasures of a lively Mediterranean and a la carte gourmet breakfast in style with darling little milk churns. Fresh produce and quality indulge the senses for a stroll around Hyde Park, where just one sight of the Italian Gardens reveals the historical royal romance of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. This reflection of ‘Renaissance Italy’ is our enlightenment to the nearby Albert Hall and Albert Memorial in clearly one of the most beautiful cultural quarters of the world!

Applause and special thanks to The Ampersand Hotel for their warm hospitality, innovative style and subtle reincarnation of the arts.

Details of the Victoria and Albert Museum can be found on the V&A website.

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The Old Government House Hotel, Guernsey, Channel Islands August 2012

by Emma Bumpus on August 22, 2012

A 24-hour stop over on the charismatic “island of flowers” gives Careertraveller and family an elegantly exotic and remarkably unique hotel experience that leaves them hankering for more.

Azure sky, clement breeze and charmingly picturesque cottage gardens bursting with rainbow coloured flora becomes our welcome party to this Channel Island palace. Situated in the heart of St Peter Port, is the key to our glamorous “red carpet” island adventure, which on arrival feels rather like paradise!

Grandiose and luxuriously enticing we enter a majestic kingdom steeped in history, professionalism and affection, reflected in the finest detail and warmth of staff who make travel positively addictive.

The marbled lobby floor and Murano glass chandelier create a refined timeless ambience, which enhances our journey as we pass the Sir John Coward Lounge, a careertraveller favourite that impresses the family with opulent seating, literature and art.

One glimpse of the secluded garden pool provides an enchanting mini Shangri-La prompt to fast track our island adventure before ensconcing ourselves in this magnificent relaxed sanctuary, which atmospherically radiates first class “celebration”, “holiday” and all things festive.

A meander down the 17th century cobbled streets is our fashionable access to St Peter Port, a charmingly glittering harbour that offers potential hours of yacht and cruise ship gazing! We explore the seafront and fishing on the breakwater before catching the accessible 7a bus to Rocquaine Bay, a beautiful eye catching stretch of beach, which Mediterranean-like is shimmering and boundless. Fabulous!

We capture sight of the strikingly rugged south west coast’s Fort Grey, which historically built for sea defence now houses the Shipwreck Museum, to the delight of the little sailor who loves a causeway.

A taste of the Rocquaine Regatta, alive with inshore swimming, beach volleyball contest and raft race encapsulates the Guernsey spirit, of which we are spontaneously thrown into an afternoon of summer entertainment and cinematic panorama. Wonderful!

Our return rural bus journey is a floral pilgrimage of pretty green country lanes encircled by unspoilt fields, which overlooking stunning coastline, feed the soul.

Herm Suite waiting is our call to spend our precious last hours indulging the senses. A priceless ocean vista of St Peter Port from our balcony, sumptuous four-poster bed, super chic travertine marbled bathroom with roll top bath and built in splash TV creates a sophisticated aperitif, stylishly perfect.

A pre dinner swim in the turquoise oasis of a pool with encompassing private garden enthuses the taste buds as we deliberate dinner; a unique experience of European and Asian influences within a 19th century palace. 3 palatable menus in exquisite surrounds provides a culinary treat for the family who opt for The Brasserie, which airy and refined overlooks a romantically dreamy garden fit for Her Majesty!

Service, service, service delivers a delectable family banquet to remember with blackened chilli Forest Stores pork belly on creamed potatoes, savoy cabbage and a grain mustard sauce. Divine! With a request for dessert “a la room service”, nothing is too much for this famous hotel, which dating back to 1858 has been the official residence of the Governor (Queen’s representative to the Bailiwick of Guernsey) and honoured Her Majesty the Queen for luncheon in 1957.

Relaxed, rejuvenated and replenished we escort the little soldier to our playground of a suite, which well equipped with DVDs, books, magazines and Occitane toiletries forms a heavenly home! Thoughtful finishing touches such as facial and foot masks on the pillows justify our 24-hour stop over before homeward bound.

Serene sunset views of St Peter Port from the decks of our private veranda provide an eternal nightcap, which cruise-like, marks a stay at this Hotel flawless, endearing and inimitable.

A VERY special thanks to the Old Government house Hotel for making poetry of unique hospitality, service and travel.

Further Guernsey tourist and travel information can be found on the Visit Guernsey website.

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