Checking out The Pucic Palace in the ancient city of Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Awkward guest – that’s just not my style!
Oh… that was until I checked into The Pucic Palace in Dubrovnik in June 2015. I arrived just as an incredible electric storm struck the city. My arrival in Dubrovnik was already tinged with drama as my shuttle bus from the airport had broken down on a cliff edge and another bus had to come and rescue us. Once at The Pucic Palace, the hotel staff agreed to help me set up my Croatian SIM card, which was a small drama in itself as they searched the entire building for an unlocked phone!
It’s fair to say, they took all my mini dramas in their stride, and went above and beyond to make my stay a pleasant one.
The hotel has two sections: the 17th Century Baroque hotel building, and the annex apartments a minute away. I was staying in Defne Apartment in the annex – a stunning building right in the heart of the old town.
Last week I had the chance to tick another country off my bucket list… and do it in style. Just over four hours from London by plane is the beautiful island of Cyprus. For years friends have been telling me all about the beautiful scenery, perfect weather, and excellent hospitality.
I can’t deny that my love of the Cypriot cheese halloumi was another reason for wanting to visit… (imagine having that for breakfast, lunch and dinner? Yum!) I’d read a few Sensatori Cyprus reviews but was keen to share my own experiences.
Sensatori Cyprus – the main pool
Checking In To Tui Sensatori Aphrodite Hills, Cyprus
In early June, I checked into the Sensatori Resort Aphrodite Hills (around twenty minutes from Paphos Airport). Sensatori is the luxury hotel brand from Tui. They offer “luxury holidays designed to fuel the senses” in 5-star surroundings, with gourmet food and plenty more to make it a truly special holiday. I was staying as an all-inclusive guest, which gave me the chance to check out several restaurants, enjoy a few cocktails and pile up my plate at the buffet breakfast!
I was curious about Sensatori Cyprus as it had just undergone a rebrand. I’d heard this might be the best Sensatori yet and I’m pleased to say it was a pleasant experience. Champagne was waiting on arrival, and the check-in staff were very welcoming. Arriving late at night (11.30pm) I had assumed it may be difficult to find any food, but thankfully a basic version of the buffet was still in operation.
Check prices and current availability at Sensatori Cyprus here.
My room was on the ground floor, and was stylishly decorated in a mix of grey, silver and white. The bathroom was large with a rain-style shower and bath. My French doors opened out onto a small terrace area with a couple of chairs and a table. Bluetooth speakers, fluffy robes, and plenty of toiletries added to the high-end feel.
My bedroom at Sensatori CyprusMy bathroom at Sensatori CyprusMy bedroom at Sensatori CyprusToilettries at Tui Sensatori Resort Atlantica Aphrodite Hills
“Well the view’s not bad… I wonder what the food’s like?”
My words as we wandered into The Old Orchard pub after an hour and a half walking along the nearby canal towpath. It’s located in Harefield – an area of outstanding natural beauty, with locks, small cottages, decorated narrow boats and flowers everywhere. We visited on a bright, sunny April afternoon, and we had certainly worked up quite an appetite!
Eating fish sandwiches on Galata Bridge and haggling in the Grand Bazaar… most guide books will describe these as unmissable experiences. But there’s plenty more to Istanbul. Here is my guide to the perfect 24 hours in an incredible city!
