travel – STYLE-LIST

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TRAVEL: 48 HOURS IN BERLIN

February 11, 2023February 10, 2023by jojobatemanLeave a Comment

AS VALENTINES DAY IS UPON US WHAT BETTER CITY TO VISIT THAN BERLIN. KEEP PARIS AND ROME. BERLIN IS FAR SEXIER AND GREAT IN THE WINTER MONTHS. SO BE INVENTIVE THIS YEAR AND WHISK YOUR PARTNER OFF FOR A BEAUTIFUL BERLIN LOVE IN !

Normally when I write the travel articles I have visited the places I write about several times. But I must confess I have never visited Berlin before until recently as it didn’t excite me. How wrong could I be !! I have totally fallen in love with the place and cannot wait to return . What an exciting, efficient intriguing city. Do not wait any longer like I did …..

So I am going to share with you my 48 hours of fun and culture

FRIDAY 4.30pm

Whisked to our Hotel The Ritz Carlton at Potsdamer Platz. Now on of my firm favourite hotels and perfectly situated between East and West Berlin. Undeniably chic with an Art deco design with three great bars and an award winning restaurant. Unpack and explore the local area.

6.30pm

Dinner at COA almost opposite the hotel. Asian fusion fresh healthy food. Woks and bowls lightly cooked. Dim Sum 5E for three so we ordered a whole selection. Prawn Massaman curry swiftly followed 11.90E . great value amazing food and cool surroundings.

8.00pm

Back to the hotel and head to the Curtain Club. Live music and one of the most innovative cocktail menus that confuses the senses. We order a Prophecy which arrives smoking with wood chips to “let the reincarnation of your soul flow through your throat”. My ‘Mori San’ a sake based drink promoting positivity, security and balance. Mysterious venue I felt like Marlene Dietrich !

SATURDAY 10.00am

We embark on a day of sightseeing but not before heading to the Berlin Mall 15 minutes walk. The mall was so empty with some fabulous shopping and we were presented with maps on entering .Worth a visit and lots of coffee bars. We then grab a taxi which was fairly easy but the buses run every 10 minutes 24 hours a day, to what remains of the Berlin wall. 10 minute journey. The wall is steeped in history and the graffiti makes very interesting reading. ensure you visit the EAST SIDE GALLERY part of the wall. It is the 30th Anniversary of the wall coming down this November and there is a festival and concert planned. Checkpoint Charlie is another stop point but more central 10 minutes away.

1.00pm

We decide to lunch at Pirates Berlin with a view of the wall and the river on the other side. A club with a small beach we sit on the deck outside as it was a lovely sunny day. What a fun place great service and good food. This is the only restaurant on the east bank of the East side gallery. Would reccomend. Very much burgers, pizza and pasta. But had a sweet potato and avocado salad for 9 E and a German staple a half kilo of grilled tiger prawns.

2.30pm

After lunch ( we spent longer here than anticipated soaking up the atmosphere), grab another taxi to THE BRANDENBURG GATE. One of Berlins most important and historical monuments. It really is a lovely part of Berlin around this part the long Boulevards remind me of Paris in a bygone era. In fact its address is Pariser Platz.

We visit the ‘ Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe’ 2711 concrete slabs arranged in a grid. Haunting and very quiet.

The Reichstag Building and German Parliament is a short walk away but we discover you have to prebook to tour inside. Strolling through the park on our return we decide to sample Bratwurst hot dogs at one of the many kiosks. Wnen in Germany.

7.00pm

After my reflexology appointment in the wellness area this must be arranged in advance but a welcome relief from my day of walking. Still full from Bratwurst we decide to head out for cocktails. So we head for a legendary Kaiser Cup cocktail at the equally legendary HOTEL ADLON KEMPINSKI. This is a Hotel from the golden age. The hotel where Michael Jackson famously , for the wrong reasons, dangled his child from the window. Dietrich, Chaplin, Garland have all stayed here. A hotel from a bygone era. A pianist gently tinkling the ivories this was a very sophisticated setting. There is a reasonable light bar menu too if you should need sustenance with the very potent Kaiser Cup.

On our return to the Hotel we cant resist the call of The Fragrance Bar where Cocktails are made based on your favourite perfume . “A sensorial experience”. Guests are invited to discover their signature drink by finding their favourite elements of a fragrance. This is like a mad scientists laboratory with a long line of test tubes. One problem I love smoky woody perfumes but I didn’t love my smoky woody cocktail. Neither of which I remember the name, sorry, blame it on the Kaiser Cups. But this bar is one of a kind. Even if you stay at another Hotel, come here for this aromatic experience. After one cocktail (well at this bar !) we head to bed.

SUNDAY 10.00am

As we love our art we decide a visit to the Dali museum a short walk away is a must. We spend a morning here and buy some beautiful arty books. This was an impressive museum with some great works. Very quiet and nicely laid out. A real treat.

12.00pm

We head back to the hotel to checkout and leave the luggage with concierge. A table at POTS the widely acclaimed restaurant at the Ritz Carlton perfect for a special lunch to end a perfect trip in a perfect city.

My word the food here was special 26 euros for three course set menu !!

Beetroot,mozarella and pistachio to start , followed by red perch with saffron and fennel and banana souffle. The sommelier paired the wines perfectly and allowed us some tastings at the table. I have been saving myself for this lunch . Magnifique ! ( I know its French but my German is not good )

After lunch our driver is waiting in the foyer to whisk us on the short drive to the airport. Everything about this City is efficient, clean , spacious and surprisingly relaxing. I cant believe i waited so long I certainly wont wait too long to return. 10/10

JOJOS STYLELIST TIP: BERLIN REALLY IS AN EXCITING CITY AND A GREAT PLACE TO VISIT AND ONLY LESS THAN 2 HOURS FLYING TIME. PUT THE CABARET BACK INTO LIFE X

MWAH MWAH

JOJO XXXXXXXX

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48 HOURS IN JERSEY-A CULINARY TOUR

January 23, 2021January 13, 2021by jojobatemanLeave a Comment

****NOTE***** As many of us are dreaming of a quick getaway it may actually happen in the not so distant future so I have decided to republish some of my travel articles for you to stop dreaming and start planning(although I would not book yet). I thought I would start with my Jersey experience especially with the recent REAL HOUSEWIVES OF JERSEY making a recent splash on our screens.

I am a regular visitor to Jersey in the Channel Islands mainly because my parents live there. Perfect for a long weekend away and frequently overlooked as a travel destination. A 40 minute flight away and you can be on some of the best beaches in the world, temperatures typically 5 degrees hotter than the mainland and a whole host of Michelin star restaurants. All this in 9 x 5 miles of island. With all the fresh local produce that Jersey has to offer from the freshest seafood, the creamiest dairy and not forgetting the new potatoes this surely is a foodies dream. So as I have tried and tested most of the restaurants not the island over the years I decided to take my Knightsbridge based foodie friend for a culinary tour of Jersey for 48 hours of the finest food so come along with us !!!

FRIDAY 16.00

Leave from Gatwick. Unfortunately at the time of publishing Jersey still do not fly from Heathrow however this is due to change. But we make it in time for dinner! After settling in at my parents we head out to Mark Jordan On The Beach just a short walk away. We sat outside on the terrace on a warm evening with unparalleled views of the sea and the sun setting across the bay. This restaurant has a Bib Gourmand and was featured in the Tatler Best Restaurant Guide. I always feel if you are close to the sea then you really have to order seafood the saltiness in the air bring out the flavours. All the fish is local and the freshest I have tasted anywhere. I order the Brill with a crab tortellini on a lobster bisque while my guest ordered the whole grilled Plaice with a caper,prawn and cockle butter. Both dishes were outstanding and amazing value at £23 and £27 respectively. I left it up to my dinner guest to order a dessert to share a simply perfect raspberry souffle . Could not fault the food and service here and certainly could not find fault with the view. 10/10

SATURDAY 10.00

After our morning yoga , green juice and copious black coffee . We decide not to ruin our culinary lunch today by having breakfast so we head to nearby Noirmont Point for a brisk bracing walk along the cliffs. It always seems to be windy here so take a sweater. On the south coast of Jersey withfabulous views across the bay and along the coastline. Steeped in history still has several German bunkers and a Martello tower. It is possible to have a local guide give you a tour of the area which is preserved in perpetuity to the men and women of jersey who died in World War 2.

12.00pm

We head to St Brelades bay one of the most beautiful wide beaches on the Island. I could be forgiven for thinking I was in the Caribbean but with its huge empty beach with white sands …..it is better. But before we change into our beachwear we head to our next planned restaurant the infamous OYSTER BOX overlooking the Ocean. Always a “must do” in every Jersey/good food article. Super chic and minimalist interior.The menu could be written for me with lots of tartare, carpaccio, oysters and seafood and a good wine list too. I opted for one of the specials Hake with artichokes and cauliflower gremolata , my guest chose the scallops and pancetta with a pea and mint puree. All paired with a bottle of my favourite rose Chateau Minuty £38 very reasonable. We passed on dessert although the dessert menu was very tempting. But I AM planning on donning the bikini right after lunch. Once again , outstanding. Family owned since 1954 they also own the Crab Shack next door if you want more casual dining. 10/10

2.30pm

Hire a couple of sunbeds for £5 each (£35 each in Cannes !!) and sleep off lunch in the warm September sunshine .

4.00pm

Before organising our transport home we head to L’Horizon to the terrace bar for gin and tonics. A lovely spot overlooking the beach with glass panels to protect you from the wind whilst not spoiling the incredible views. Very cordial here and they ALSO have a great menu for lunch.

7.00pm

We opt for a very healthy clean light supper at my friends fabulous restaurant NUDE FOOD . One based in St Helier but we headed close by to the newly opened NUDE BEACH to check it out. right on the beach at St Aubins the restaurant is as light and clean as the menu. The menus is “light clean and uncomplicated” just how I like it !! We found it kind of refreshing to move away from the Michelin style foods and just have a simple healthy supper. No alcohol is served here. I opted for an Immune Boost (apple,carrot,ginger,turmeric and lemon) to drink £4.20. The Asian Poke bowl full off wonderful asian vegetables and brown rice £9.50, I topped with some grilled halloumi unconventional, I know, but there are no rules. As a clean eater I have always loved their food in St Helier but this new setting by the beach was off the scale ! The closest thing to heaven . Don’t be put off by the Nude Beach sign though you do get to keep your clothes on!!!!

Strolling back along the beach to home without feeling too heavy was great.

SUNDAY 10.00am

Our last day and I decided I wanted my foodie guest to sample another Beach Cafe . So we decide to power walk to the beach at St Peter ( well we have to keep working these calories off). Lovely and quiet and no one on the beach. This is basically a beach shack with a very extensive menu and the best full English Breakfast on the island. As we had another gastronomic lunch to look forward to we had two giant cups of coffee and a Portuguese bacon roll to share.

We board Le Petit Train Jerseys very own little train that accommodate up to 60 people to travel along the coast from Liberation Square St Helier to St Aubins. A 35 minute journey and for £8.50 a great way to see this part of Jersey.

1.00pm

I have two Michelin options for lunch today we opted for Oceans restaurant at The Atlantic Hotel, St Brelade . But a quick mention for Samphire in St Helier formerly known as Ormers. The chef Sean Rankin has since parted ways but already Samphire have earned their Michelin status back. Remains one of my favourites with stunning decor, exceptional food and service and a great Saturday brunch menu until 2 pm. If you are here for longer I would not hesitate to recommend.

Oceans restaurant is located within The Atlantic, listed status as a small luxury Hotel of the world.The sole one in Jersey. Overlooking a beautiful unoccupied swimming pool with further views extending across St Ouens bay. The hotel is up high so makes the views even more impressive. This elegant calm dining room is quiet. We opt for the set menu 2 course for £22.50 and 3 courses for £27.50. Starters of scorched and tartare Mackerel followed by pan fried salmon on a bed of smoked haddock and vegetables was divine. Only the desserts let the meal down with a take on ‘arctic roll’ which did not compete with the £1 one from all good and (otherwise ) supermarkets. Surprising from such an esteemed award winning restaurant.

We continued our exceptional bottle of Gavi down by the pool and as we had brought along our swimwear we lazed the afternoon away in the exceptional surroundings and absorbed the view. A few champagnes later we headed back home to get ready for our flight back to the mainland………. and a week of fasting !

HOTELS

There are a number of great “Luxury” Hotels to stay in Jersey. As I am not sure my parents can accommodate you all …….but you can ask !!

Here are a few good ones

THE ROYAL YACHT ST HELIER
HOTEL DE FRANCE ST HELIER
ST BRELADES BAY HOTEL
THE ATLANTIC HOTEL ST BRELADE
L’HORIZON ST BRELADE
LONGUEVILLE MANOR ST SAVIOUR

JOJOS STYLELIST TIP: EVEN BETTER IF YOU CAN CHOOSE YOUR 48 HOURS MIDWEEK TO MAKE THE MOST OF CHEAP FLIGHTS AND EMPTY BEACHES. EASYJET FLIGHTS FROM £40 PP.

BON VOYAGE

JOJO xxxxxxxxxxxxx

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TRAVEL:GET ON BOARD PLANE ETIQUETTE

February 8, 2020February 7, 2020by jojobateman1 Comment

Bad behaviour always becomes more pronounced when you are crammed into a confined area when there is no escape ! Having just returned from another long haul trip it never fails to surprise me how inconsiderate some people can be of others. This can occur in First , business or economy class it is not limited. So to prevent situations escalating higher than the 36 000 feet you are flying at and your blood pressure reaching a higher temperature than your destination let me highlight some situations where your own behaviour may need to be checked in with your baggage !

Following my recent article on the downfall of manners many of you contacted me about manners on aeroplanes so I have consolidated your gripes into the following list. So lets work together to bring back the joy to travel !!

I have never quite understood passengers that travel with quite so much hand luggage to save them 20 minutes at the other end. Lugging it all around the lounge when it could be easily checked in to ensure you have a far more relaxing and enjoyable time. BUT there is nothing more infuriating than all this hand luggage clogging up the queues at security while all these cases are unpacked and repacked. Make everyones jobs easier and waiting times quicker and CHECK IT IN !!!!

When boarding an aircraft WITH ALL YOUR HAND LUGGAGE move out of the gangway as soon as possible so boarding can take place as quick as possible. I have seen passengers leisurely unpacking in the aisle totally oblivious to the 400 people waiting to pass by.
Recently travelling in Business class on a £7000 air fare to enable me to sleep before a meeting that I was heading to I was mortified to find I was seated next to a baby that literally cried ALL night. Message to parents its all in the title BUSINESS class for business people who need to work on the run. Even if you all travelled Business and First all your life you have to adjust when you have a baby please consider other passengers. I would never have booked my baby into a business cabin I promise you we went everywhere by coach class. Message to airlines PLEASE make Business and First cabins child free until at least the age of 12 when they can actually appreciate it and WE can appreciate them. Remember people are paying thousands of pounds (and other currencies) JUST to avoid babies and badly behaved children.
On the subject of children . Parents please stay in control. DO NOT LET YOUR CHILD KICK THE BACK OF THE SEAT IN FRONT FOR 11 CONSECUTIVE HOURS ! It is entirely up to you to keep them occupied.
Reclining seats are a feature on all airlines in all classes let the person behind know that you are reclining the seat beforehand ensuring they don’t have any drinks/food on the tray behind. ALWAYS put your seat upright at meal times out of courtesy for the person seated behind to give them room to enjoy their meal. We know how cramped it can be to dine on a plane.
What ever personal habits you have developed in your own personal space leave them there. A plane is NOT your own personal space. Do not subject your fellow travellers to nose picking, throat clearing, feet picking , wind breaking, sniffing, cutting nails (yes it really happens). Remember other people have THEIR own personal space too. Respect it.
Please I beg you, NO BARE FEET. Of course you want to remove outdoor footwear on a long haul flight I get it, replace these with flight socks or flight slippers. Don’t put your feet on the arms of the seats in front or on the top of the seat or ON THE FOOD TRAY. A flurry of you tube videos have been posted recently showing just this.
Check the volume of your headphones. Sitting next to someone with constant tinny noise of music that you don’t like and even if you do like it is so annoying after the first 3 hours.
Toilet time. OMG how long does it take ? What are you people doing in there ????? When there is approx one restroom between 100 passengers please be aware that there will probably be 10 people waiting with crossed legs outside. Do what you have to do quickly and efficiently then leave. Oh after you have tidied up your mess on the seat , on the floor and in the sink and sanitised the entire area . I avoid these dreadful cubicles if I possibly can so when I need to go I need to go so GET OUT OF THERE !

Finally please treat cabin crew with respect and courtesy. do not demand and say please and thank you. They have a difficult job and a limited time to do it in. Stay in your seat while they are serving from the trolley , although I have it on good authority the Captain always creates some turbulence during these times and the seatbelt sign just must go on…..

There will be points here that we all recognise and there may be some we are guilty of ourselves if this is you. STOP. THINK. Let us make air travel a more beautiful experience like it used to be.

JOJOS STYLELIST TIP: WE LIVE IN A SELFISH WORLD. TO CREATE STYLE AND BEAUTY AROUND US RELIES ON OTHER PEOPLE HAVING THE SAME VALUES. LET US START THINKING ABOUT OUR BEHAVIOUR AND THE AFFECT IT HAS ON OTHER PEOPLE. I HAVE FAITH WE ALL ULTIMATELY WANT. THE SAME OUTCOME.

MWAH MWAH

JOJO XXXXXXXX

Style Lists

THE STYLE LIST DECEMBER

December 28, 2019December 15, 2019by jojobatemanLeave a Comment

Lets see who made it onto the Christmas Style List in December. are you hot or not ? are you in with the in crowd ? Were you a Christmas Fairy or a Christmas Grinch ? Let us reveal all…….

BEST HOTEL

EDEN ROCK ST BARTHS

Bringing you the best tried and tested hotels ! This is where I spent my pre Christmas break and I intend to return at the earliest opportunity. The island itself is by far the most beautiful and wealthiest of the Carribean, owned by the french and has all the pizzazz (is this word still used ?) of the South of France. Eden Rock itself has the best location on the Island in a calm turquoise bay and sandy beach. Great beachside dining, and lovely beachside bungalows. Uber cool and super stylish yet laid back enough not to take itself too seriously.

MOST STYLISH PERSON

SANTA CLAUS

Who else could win this category this December. Always positive, brings great pressies and wears such a stylish outfit . I was lucky enough to meet him this December he is actually impeccably mannered too !

MOST STYLISH PRODUCT

DYSON SUPERSONIC HAIRDRYER

I know this was on many of your christmas wish lists and I was lucky enough to be granted one. I will be honest at the time of writing I have not used it so i cannot comment on the amazing claims . Prevents heat damage with advanced technology, cuts drying times and restores shine. But for pure style the product looks divine and if it lives up to its claims which I hope it does for £300 I will be very happy. Will keep you all posted on this one !

MOST STYLISH RESTAURANT

THE RITZ, LONDON

Well I have had a very busy December but even though I visit this Hotel regularly throughout the year there is a magic about the Ritz at Christmas. It is everything Christmas should be even in your own imagination. We attended Live At The Ritz an extravagant night of Dinner, dancing and big band sounds. Truly enchanting. The epitome of style……as ever.

STYLISH FASHION

WINTER WHITES

Okay girls we have had sequins, feathers, velvets and satins this season but December going into January is all about the winter whites. These are not bright cool whites but warmer creams and off whites. Pull it all together with different tones maybe a camel or taupe thrown into the mix. Or all cream with a beautifully tailored camel coat for outerwear. There is winter white everywhere in the stores right now pick some up in the sales as it tends to look not so glamorous after a few washes.

So Stylistas there you have it the Style List winners for December. Aspire. Desire.Inspire.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all A VERY STYLISH HAPPY NEW YEAR! I hope its a year when you can make your own personal world more beautiful xxxx

Mwah mwah

JOJO XXXXXXXXXX

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TRAVEL: HOW TO DO LONDON NOW

November 23, 2019November 18, 2019by jojobateman1 Comment

If you are looking for a weekend in London away from the crowds, queues and over subscribed West End. I bring to you an interesting alternative from the usual weekend haunts of Knightsbridge. Mayfair and Trafalgar Square. I recently stayed at The Soho House owned The Ned at Poultry in the City of London. The wealthiest square mile in the world. A perfect weekend escape as the bankers and IT guys have all deserted the area for some much needed down time. leaving YOU to discover the peaceful haven that they never see. Great for this time of year as this area offers up some stunning restaurants and bars, culture and art galleries and all your christmas shopping in The Royal Exchange. Here you can find Aspinalls, Fortnum and Masons, Boodles, Tiffanys, Jo Malone, Penhaligons, Links to name but a few. All perfectly gift wrapped. Be warned though do your shopping here on your arrival day of Friday as most of these stores close for the weekend. But good to get this out of the way to ensure maximum enjoyment and relaxation in the most chilled place and best kept secret for a genuine London weekend escape.

So, now we have the shopping out of the way lets concentrate on what I love about this area.

WHERE TO STAY

THE NED has 250 1930s inspired bedrooms , 10 restaurants , spa and gym. With prices starting at £250 per night it represents real value for money. This imposing building and stunning facade was once Midland bank. The rooms are sumptuous and cosy perfect for a winters night and the bathrooms are stocked full of cowshed products (10 different shampoos and conditioners ) . There is also a “Mr Porter” (Net A Porter) menu you could turn up just with a handbag and order anything you may have forgot and it arrives in minutes delivered direct to your room from Spanx to swimwear to clothing to cosmetics.

The price also includes access to The Spa with its amazing 20 metre indoor pool, Moroccan Hammam, and several cowshed treatment rooms and nail bar and blow bar. Even vita drips are offered here in the Elixir clinic.

Truly you could just stay holed up in the Ned for the whole weekend but if you do want to venture out then lets look at some of the amazing eateries and places to visit.

EATERIES

Some of my favourites……..

Well The Ned itself has a number of diverse eateries downstairs in the “faded glamour of a 1930s ocean liner” feel. Its lively with live music in the centre of the restaurants. You can choose from healthy californian to Jewish to Sushi to italien every taste catered for. My particular favourites are Malibu Kitchen for healthy by the ocean fare. Cecconis , I love in Mayfair and here at The Ned it never diappoints and the setting feels grander. Great for cocktails with a big sit around square bar.

Coq D’Argent directly across the road. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner. the restaurant is set up high with a garden and the best views across the city. Popular with City peoples during the week but easier to get a table on the weekends although booking advised. The food and service here is exceptional with a set menu starting from £29.50 for two courses. Elegant and white table clothed glamorous restaurant. Perfect for a romantic dinner.

COYA as my followers are aware i am a massive fan of Coya in Picadilly. So was very excited to find the newly opened Coya in Angel Court Throgmorton St. Party atmosphere and fresh clean Peruvian cuisine and not so clean Pisco Sours ! Bottomless brunches with live music on Saturdays from 12.30pm onwards and only a short stagger back to The Ned !!

HAWKSMOOR SPITALFIELDS is the place if you like a steak. The best steaks in London. All day dining so this one can work around your own schedule.

LE PONT DE LA TOUR just over a mile away from The Ned is an old perennial that never gets tired situated on the river right by Tower Bridge this could fit neatly into your sightseeing schedule if you are choosing to visit Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. Saturday and Sunday have a Brunch or Dinner menu with old school french cuisine and an excellent wine menu. Absolutely beautiful setting and a lovely romantic evening stroll back to your Hotel, weather permitting.

I must mention here my little secret a great champagne bar with incredible views and outside seating , perfect for the summer months. JIM BO LAW located within the DORSETT HOTEL Aldgate just jump in the elevator press the pineapple to head straight to the top floor. Although no food served here.

There are so many great eateries in this part of town so experiment.

THINGS TO DO

A few suggestions

St Pauls Cathedral – pre book a guided tour
Tower of London – a firm favourite
Spitalfields Market – one of Londons oldest Markets. Open 7 days a week. Original clothing and arts from over 80 independent designers.
Guildhall Art Gallery- Guildhall Yard. Over 250 paintings, drawings and sculpture. Also houses in the basement Londons only Roman Amphitheatre unearthed in 1988. Both free admission.
St Swithins Wine Shipper , St Switihins Lane opens until 10pm Friday but alas closed on a weekend. a destination for wine enthusiasts 48 wines to try from state of the art enomatic machines. also very rare wines can be tried. There is a lovely tasting terrace and platters and nibbles are served to enhance your wine tasting experience. No booking required.
Sky Gardens , Fenchurch St (the walkie talkie building) for a 360 degree view of London amongst a lot of greenery, plants and trees.
Typically British Tour a 2 hour tour starting at St Pauls available only on a weekend 13.00 -18.00. For tourists to see how British people typically live but how interesting to go as a Brit to see how we are portrayed. great fun and always a good crowd. Be aware they are walking tours.
If you are missing the call of the West End theatres head down to the banks of the Thames, New Globe Walk close to Tower bridge for some Shakespeare matinees or evening performances of HenryVI or Richard III. Check schedule for listings. But to see Shakespeare within The reconstructed Globe Theatre as it is supposed to be is a real treat.

Hopefully there are some activities of interest on this list. But as you can see there are many experiences to indulge in the City. It may not have crossed your mind to plan a WEEKEND visit to the City’s square mile but there is something refreshing, new and exciting without the mass crowds. It feels classy like London used to.

JOJOS STYLELIST TIP: Ssssssssssh stylistas lets keep it a secret !

JOJO . xxxxxxxx

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TRAVEL: LAS VEGAS….MY WAY

September 2, 2019August 29, 2019by jojobatemanLeave a Comment

This article is obviously my own point of view of whats hot (44 degrees !) in Vegas. Having just returned a couple of days ago and visited this sumptuous city 20 + times I do however, consider myself a bit of an expert on the place.

WHERE TO STAY

For me it has to be THE VENETIAN every time. I made a point this week of visiting the hot contenders of this Hotel and there were none. THE WYNN too tacky CAESARS too big, BELLAGIO in need of a refurbishment in fact had not changes since I last visited 15 years ago. THE COSMOPOLITAN very sleazy but great if you are in your twenties. These hotels have some great restaurants and shops ( more later) but to stay in….. no it has to be The Venetian. Still holding its glamour and all the rooms are indulgent suites with living room area and fabulous spacious bathrooms with walk in showers and grand bath tubs. The Venezia Tower offers quieter accommodation away from the main hotel and has a quieter lagoon pool with the fabulous BOUCHON on hand for brunch and lunch.

The main pool and bar areas had a complete refurbishment as you can see above seated at the ‘Tiffany blue’ bar awaiting Margaritas. This hotel provides some of the best restaurants in Vegas and the standard is incredible now in Vegas. You really do not need to leave this resort but in the best interests of this article we ventured out into the searing 44 degree heat !!

WHERE TO EAT

Well first of all lets start at THE VENETIAN with two of my favourites. CANONITA right next to the Gondolas and singing gondoliers its very romantic and you could believe you are in Venice ! With happy hours 3-6 and 6-9pm and all well drinks, wine and cocktails $5 whats not to like ?? The food is VERY good I had grilled salmon and quinoa but let myself down on the cocktails ! ( its Vegaaas )

ONCE (on-say) is a restaurant that opened just a year ago . Peruvian cuisine and great Pisco Sours. This is a quiet and moody restaurant located over in the PALAZZO side of the Venetian. Great for getting away from the hustle and bustle of Vegas. This is a particularly good recommendation as there are not very many quiet locations in Vegas. The Palazzo is perfect when you had enough of crowds and the ringing of slot machines.

TAO in the Venetian is an old favourite for Asian Cuisine although this may have now been surpassed by ZUMA located in The Cosmopolitan. Regular readers will know how much I love the Japanese fayre served up by Zuma all over the world well Vegas is no exception. The food is always consistent and the menu is standard throughout the brand. The restaurant is chic located on the third floor my advice would be to rush through the lower floors as rapidly as possible !

One of my other London favourites is now located in the Cosmopolitan and right next door to Zuma…….MILOS. Again the standard menu , gorgeous Greek food and a beautiful setting. So you have a wonderful choice here depending on your foodie feeling that evening. The cosmopolitan is a short taxi ride up the strip ($10).

However my next two discoveries are right next door to our hotel. THE WYNN. ANDREAS, super sleek all white pan Asian restaurant with a fabulous cocktail bar.

SINATRAS quite close to Andreas on the ground floor was quite the opposite. Old school , Hollywood charm was transported back to the rat pack era.

Just a quick mention of two restaurants that looked interesting that we did not have time to visit. HELLS KITCHEN on the centre of the strip just outside CAESARS PALACE based on the tv show with a red and blue side of the kitchen competing. A Gorden Ramsay restaurant , looked like fun. Also located inside CAESARS PALACE ……..VANDERPUMPS COCKTAIL GARDEN. Newly launched but the queues to get in were just too long……I don’t queue ! Wanted to pay homage to Lisa though whom I have met on a number of occasions and adore her.

Wow enough eating places, we need to be in bikinis by day. Which is a neat segway into……..

WHAT TO DO IN VEGAS

There is nothing you CAN’T do in Vegas. ASK CONCIERGE. They can arrange bungee jumpimg, Grand canyon visits by helicopter/light plane/horseback. Cowboy ranches,war games, parachute jumps or for the lazy girls guide…..

SUNBATHING but go in April or October or you will need a cabana in the summer months that can cost £1000+ per day but if there is a lot of you in your party can be a perfect day . I would definitely recommend as you are very well looked after.

SPA these are very good in Vegas and gets you out of the sun for an hour or so. Every hotel has a good one the VENETIAN has the CANYON RANCH SPA close to the main pool.

CASINO of course thats why you came ? don’t be shy if you have not had a flutter before. Book a private gaming lesson all the casinos do them usually for free ! I would definitely recommend CRAPS as your money goes further and the odds of beating the house are greater than roulette or blackjack so much so UK casinos usually don’t have CRAPS tables. The excitement builds and you meet many new people as you are all playing the table together.

SHOWS we saw two shows while we were there. DIANA ROSS who was simply outstanding. It was very emotional. MATT GOSS at 1OAK at THE MIRAGE (directly opposite The Venetian) with a rat pack show which was intimate and great fun. In fact he bought the audience several tequilas. Brilliant. Both in for long runs so catch these shows if you can. Another good show at THE MIRAGE is the CIRQUE DU SOLEIL “LOVE” show (there are many CDS shows in Vegas) but this is the best one. I have seen them all over the years. There are so many shows to book it is up to your personal preference but the big names get booked up so buy before you fly !

As well as the best Theatre Vegas has the BEST SHOPPING. There are fabulous malls in the hotels but take it from me you only have to head to THE FORUM at CAESARS PALACE for all the designer things that you want but don’t need. This Mall is an experience in itself a Rome re-creation that is better than Rome itself !

Wow my 5 days here as left me exhausted at least i get a full 10 hours sleep on the way home as LAS VEGAS you are too busy too sleep ! VIVA LAS VEGAS !! Night Night everyone …until next time zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

JOJOS STYLE LIST TIP: PLAN YOUR SCHEDULE BEFORE YOU GO THERE REALLY IS SOOOO MUCH TO DO IN THIS CITY. DONT FORGET TO BUILD IN REST TIME.

JOJO XXXXXXXXXX

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THE HAPPY PLACE FESTIVAL

August 5, 2019August 4, 2019by jojobateman2 Comments

Well guys Festival season is well and truly upon us. So I found a festival that would suit our age group. None of that pitching tents, washing (and other things ) in a bucket, copious amounts of alcohol and smoking various substances. No this was the festival of choice for me. No alcohol whatsoever replaced with a green juice bar and CBD oil replacing the cannabis. No loud music just gentle gongs and chi bowls. Dancing replaced by yoga and vegan food replaced greasy burgers. Surely this is Jojos truly happy place ???

This seed of an idea was a brilliant one….on paper but it needs to germinate and blossom. We went for the birth of this festival on Saturday 3rd August 2019. Fearne Cottons baby. But as long as she learns from her mistakes and listens to the punters she is trying to make happy then this has real potential. But yesterday it became my “Unhappy Place”.

The day started well a big Rylan Clark Neal fan I managed to secure a front row seat to await his interview with the stunning Amanda Byram. It was preceded by a lovely lady Bryony Gordon of whom I was unaware for a short interview. Engaging,witty and yes happy. Now an avid fan. Rylan as ever did not disappoint in fact was such a brilliant interview with Amanda I even bought the book ! I met Rylan a little later for a chat and he was as charming and real as I hoped……and happy. Unlike a very grumpy Russell Brand who we encountered a little later we did remind him he was supposed to be in his” happy place” but I think we only compounded his already bad mood.

Fearne’s tagline read “a place to enjoy that makes us happy” well if you enjoy queuing 2 hours for food or drink than this IS your place. There were only 3 small vegan trucks with a couple of servers in each and ONE yes ONE green juice bar with a queue stretching as far as the third eye could see !! o Fearne, you surely knew the numbers that had bought tickets ? The Vans eventually ran out of food at 3.30pm to the dismay of the people that had queued the full 2 hours ! Well if you know me I do NOT queue so we had to leave the ground early get in the car in search of food in nearby Richmond. Cotton you stitched us up on this one !!!!

Please be aware if you are booking to go to any of these Happy Place Festivals as there are more throughout September the ticket does not cover ANY of the classes on the schedule. When I booked my ticket there was NOTHING to say that all the classes were not included and the page did not redirect me to any further booking options. So I like many others on the day could not attend the classes. In fact I printed off the schedule for the classes of the SEE website and it still did not make that clear. So you really have to search many were left disappointed on the day as the classes were extremely limited. I just checked the website and it still does not make this clear.

We did meet the fabulous…….and happy Interiors Expert Sophie Robinson who was happy us and others to sit on the outskirts. A great workshop “Making Your Place A Happy Home” as Sophie was the most amazing person we met on the day would like to see her play a larger role, as she fitted the mantra for the Festival.

As a professional Sound Therapist I was eager to attend the Sound Healing session which I managed to squeeze into which was supremely relaxing after the stressful day. Although was punctuated by the loudness of an energetic voice of an American instructor at a mat class next door and Russell Brand attention seeking at a stage nearby. The Meditation and Mindfulness Tepee one would presume should be in a quiet location ? As you can see my Happy Place Sound Meditation has been going on for many years.

On a final note all the speakers were there to sell their books on site. Fearne Cottons were piled high. So after every talk the ‘celebrities’ would spend longer than the interview flogging their wares. In a Festival which is about ‘giving back’ ‘helping others’ ‘nourishing our souls’ ‘making YOU happy’ it was is sad that really once again it all boils down to commercial propaganda. It would have been lovely for someone to come along and devote their time in the true spirit of the festival. Then inform us they have nothing to sell!! How refreshing ! I really wanted this Festival to create a different message. Not a Festival to create “a Happy Place” for Fearne and her friends.

Great idea and I loved the Garden Fete feel of the Festival as more people attend I hope they don’t lose this but it felt like some of the organisation was done by someone who had only organised a garden fete before !

To end my review this was not “my Happy Place” and having bumped into Fearne during the course of the day it was clearly not hers either. But life is a learning curve and will try again next year. Scroll down to see some of my purchases from the day.

JOJOS STYLE LIST TIP

Save it for next year. It did not quite make the STYLE LIST this time around.

Jojo xxxx

A glass water bottle with a glass chamber for a crystal elixir combination for mind, body and soul. I chose moss agate. Pure crystals.co.uk £30

CBD oil that actually tastes pleasant good for anxiety and joints. The most effective THC free formula available. For more information georgeandmae.com

Of course The Life Of Rylan (signed !!) and what a life. Paperback £6.99 available at all good bookstores and some suspect ones too !

Much love , signing off

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MY PLEDGE

July 30, 2019August 5, 2019by jojobateman3 Comments

Hi to all my fabulous and fifty + friends. These days being fifty has a whole new look think Elle, J-Lo,Halle. They look super stylish and lead an equally super stylish life surrounded by beauty. You can live like this too and I hope to take you on a style journey with my blog. Not a destination, a continuing evolvement. If you are not going to embrace a life of style now….then when? So I am looking forward to getting to know you all welcome to our club.

Category: travel

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THE STYLE LIST DECEMBER