Find out what it’s like to stay at the luxurious Burley Manor in the New Forest.
I’ve pledged to see more of the UK this year, and I’m so happy to report that I’ve just found one of the prettiest places yet!
Yes I may have nipped to the Alps for a quick play on the ski slopes, and caught some winter sunshine in Marrakech… but I’ve also been won over by London’s brightest festival – Lumiere London, and swapped big city life for an English country manor in the New Forest. Just a quiet January then…
Thinking of booking a beginner ski holiday? Find out more about learning to ski on a Mark Warner holiday in this first hand account.
All the gear and no idea. That’s how I’d describe myself as I headed to Heathrow Airport on a dark January morning ready for my first ever ski trip. I’d signed up to a beginner ski holiday with Mark Warner.
Kitted out in newly purchased snow boots and a borrowed ski jacket, I felt like a massive fraud. I’ve never skied in my life. I struggle with activities that involve balance or co-ordination. Don’t even ask about my track record on a bike…
Despite this, I like to think of myself as a bit of adventurer, yes really! I’ve hang-glided in Rio De Janeiro, volcano boarded in Nicaragua and I’m an adrenaline freak when it comes to rollercoasters. I’ll try most things once. So why did the thought of hitting the slopes fill me with fear? Well for a start, who learns to ski at the age of 30?!
SKIING FOR BEGINNERS
Thankfully this was a ski trip to ease anxious sorts like me into this bizarre concept of sliding down a mountain with two planks strapped to my feet. From London, I travelled to the Mark Warner resort in Tignes Val Claret in the French Alps. It was a beautiful journey – with fir trees dusted in white powder, frozen lakes and frosty mountain peaks. My home for the next few days was the chalet-style Hotel L’Ecrin du Val Claret (full review coming soon). Covered in a snowy cotton-wool blanket, the hotel was beautifully cosy with large lounge areas, an inviting fireplace and a luxurious spa. I started to think I could fit in here.
The most exciting new festival to hit the capital – Lumiere London has attracted big crowds wanting to see London’s light festival.
Top artists from around the world were tasked with illuminating the city’s most iconic streets and landmarks with a mix of 3D projections, interactive installations and illuminated art works.
Light Graffiti by Floating Pictures
Circus of Light by Ocubo
Thousands of Londoners and tourists alike braved the freezing January temperatures, in the hope that the neon glow would warm them up!
From tasty breads and delicious tagine, to sweet treats, this is the best cooking class in Marrakech.
After a week exploring the Atlas Mountains, Moroccan seaside towns and the Sahara Desert, it was time to head back to Marrakech for a few days of culture and relaxation. I checked into one of the city’s top hotels – Es Saadi Gardens and Resort, but I was craving something…
