By Jenna Jones
October marks Black History Month in the UK, dedicated to celebrating and supporting the heritage, culture and history of Black people. And whilst learning about Black history is of course something that shouldn’t be reserved for just one month a year, Black History Month is a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on a host of incredible events, authors and brands representing Black culture in the UK.
What to read…
Misfits: A Personal Manifesto – Michaela Coel
Penned by the phenomenal creator and star of I May Destroy You and Chewing Gum, Misfits is a deeply passionate and powerfully articulate manifesto inspired by her acclaimed Edinburgh Festival lecture. Coel’s poetic amalgamation of insight and wit invites readers to reflect on their own place in society through her striking personal revelations about race, gender and class.
Black & British – A Forgotten History – David Olusoga
Written by award-winning historian and broadcaster David Olusoga, Black & British offers a frank and definitive account of the extraordinarily long and painstakingly overlooked relationship between the British Isles and the people of Africa. Recently republished featuring a new chapter encompassing the Windrush scandal and the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020, Black & British is a groundbreaking piece of educational literature that should be read by all.
Loud Black Girls – Elizabeth Uviebinené & Yomi Adegoke
In Loud Black Girls, authors of Slay in Your Lane, Elizabeth Uviebinené and Yomi Adegoke, invite the next generation of Black female authors, journalists, actors, activists and artists to explore what it means to be a Black woman in the UK today. From celebrating activism in local communities to teaching the next generation of young Black women to own their voices, Loud Black Girls is a poignant education in how to exist as your authentic self.
Brands to shop…
Founded in 2016, Maya Njie is a niche perfume brand with a clear focus on high-quality artisanal blends with scents that are deeply rooted in Founder Maya’s Swedish and West African culture. Inspired by an old family photo album, Maya set out to capture, by way of scent, those tropes of familial life. The tones are of a time and the accords nostalgic, yet the end products are notably contemporary.
As a Partner within the BBB Boutique, Maya Njie is offering BBB Club Members a 10% discount across the range.
As the name suggests, Naked Clay Ceramics celebrates clay in its pure form. Inspired by the natural colours and textures of the earth, Founder, Carla Sealey creates beautiful, minimal style tableware and homeware by hand from her studio in Bedfordshire. Each unique piece is fired with no glaze on the outside so that the feel of the natural, fired clay can be appreciated. Carla’s hope is that this tactile connection brings an opportunity to pause, breathe and savour a small moment in the hustle and bustle of busy life.
Oré mi is an independent wellbeing brand founded in 2019 creating handmade, vegan and cruelty-free home fragrances with luxurious, lasting scents. Oré mi – an expression which means my friend in Yorùbá – was founded by Karen Olla in 2019. The brand melds Karen’s Nigerian heritage with her upbringing in London, in a collection of restorative scents which draw upon her life experience. Most importantly of all, the brand was born out of Karen’s desire to break the taboo which surrounds the topic of mental health in the Black community and to support and celebrate African lifestyle products.
BBB Members can find Oré mi within the BBB Boutique and receive 20% off their purchase.
Things to do…
Cassa Pancho’s Ballet Black is a professional ballet company that celebrates dancers of Black and Asian descent, making a fundamental change in the diversity of classical ballet in Britain. With various performances happening throughout the UK during October and beyond, expect sensational solos, seductive duos and fiercely dynamic pieces performed seamlessly by the Ballet Black Company.
Take a trip to Brixton to visit the Black Cultural Archives, the only national heritage centre dedicated to collecting, preserving and celebrating the histories of African and Caribbean people in Britain. Described by actor, writer and broadcaster, Kwame Kwei-Armah as “a goldmine of information about Black cultural identity in Britain”, the Black Cultural Archives differ from conventional, traditional archives as it remains rooted in the community that created it.
Black History Month Stand Up Special
Soho Theatre and Hannah Layton Management have joined forces to showcase an unforgettable night of live comedy to celebrate Black History Month. Join Thanyia Moore (Funny Women Winner 2018) and Aurie Styla (BBC Radio London) on Wednesday 27th October for a one-night-only comedy special downstairs at the Soho Theatre featuring a lineup not to be missed.
Who to follow…
Sophie Williams is an incredible woman with many strings to her bow – author of two books, anti-racist ally, Founder of @officialmillennialblack, racial equity consultant and Manager of Production Planning at Netflix. In her own words, Sophie loves thinking and talking about intersectional identities (especially race and gender) and how they shape our experiences in the world.
Kingslee James McLean Daley, better known as Akala, is a MOBO and BAFTA award-winning rapper, journalist, author, activist and poet who uses his platform to educate and raise awareness. Featured on the annual Powerlist of the 100 most influential Black British people in the UK, Akala utilises a range of creative platforms to speak out about race in the UK.
Phyllis Akua Opoku-Gyimah, also known as Lady Phyll is a pioneer for increased visibility and advocacy for Queer, Trans and Intersex People of Colour in the UK and beyond. As Co-Founder and Director of Black Pride, Lady Phyll works tirelessly for the spiritual, emotional and intellectual health and wellbeing of the LGBTQ people of African, Asian, Caribbean, Middle Eastern and Latin American descent. Because “when we rise together, we are mighty”.
THE NEW CHRISTMAS PARTY – LONDON’S HOTTEST SPOTS FOR SMALLER CELEBRATIONS
By Jenna Jones
Whilst it’s most certainly a major step up from Christmas 2020, it’s safe to say that we’re all still treading cautiously when it comes to the thought of festive celebrations this year. As most of us slowly return to the office, navigating staggered office hours and new routines, it’s clear that we still have a long way to go until we’re back to what we once called ‘normal’.
But on a lighter note, with smaller celebrations now safely allowed, we’ve rounded up a host of enviable London locations suitable for a more bijou affair. And while it’s sadly a far cry from the extravagant office parties that once were, you’re guaranteed a great night out with your nearest and dearest cohorts at one of these stylish London hotspots. From private dining rooms and member’s clubs to all manner of alternative activities, there’s a space to suit every taste…
The newly opened Sessions Arts Club is an urban sanctuary that sits in the old judges’ dining room at Sessions House, a Grade II listed building in Clerkenwell. Built on a studio ethos, The Sessions Arts Club has its finger on the pulse of the contemporary culture, effortlessly combining arts, culture and the finest gastronomy.
For the perfect blend of fine dining and East London charm, we recommend Bistrotheque. Opt for the Cockatoo, a contemporary converted warehouse space that seats up to 60 guests for a delicious three-course feast. What’s more, groups are also free to make use of the space’s electric piano for some memorable after-dinner entertainment!
If cocktails are the order of the evening why not try making your own at TT Liquor. Be taught by their in-house mixologists to make (then drink) a selection of four different cocktails at one of their fully interactive cocktail-making classes. The Shoreditch establishment also offers dining options and a vintage 52-seater private cinema space.
If Modern European fare and a Michelin star sound appealing, then head straight to Hide. The Hide & Seek rooms on the first floor offer a combined private dining experience for up to 20 guests to enjoy the finest seasonal ingredients and the largest wine list in Europe.
Head beyond the great edifice of historic member’s club Quo Vadis to The Marx Room. Affectionately named after former resident Karl Marx, the elegant and airy space seats up to 24 guests to enjoy the seasonal British delicacies of head chef Jeremy Lee and his team.
Quietly tucked away on the lower ground floor you’ll find Gymkhana’s exquisite private vault. Seating up to 10 guests in an intimate banquette style, the space is perfect for smaller team gatherings and also offers the option to create a bespoke menu and wine pairings.
Who’s up for a spot of virtual clay pigeon shooting? Yes, you heard us right! Clays Bar are inviting you to take a shot at a new experience as you compete against colleagues on their high-resolution screens. Shooting sessions last 90 minutes and a booth can accommodate up to 20 people. Clays Bar doesn’t officially open until November 1st, but we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.
AllBright by name and all bright by nature, the Mayfair female member’s club private dining space is bright, airy and refreshingly modern. The first-floor space can cater for up to 27 guests across two adjoining rooms. AllBright also offers a completely bespoke experience working alongside their events team to create a tailor-made package just for you.
Soho restaurant Gauthier is redefining French gastronomy as plant-based, creating environmentally conscious, progressive cuisine of the future with some phenomenal private dining spaces to boot! For a fun-filled evening of up to 18 guests, we recommend the Games Room, including an old 1950s arcade machine and a selection of vintage prints and pictures.
Celebrate the season whilst donating to a great cause by choosing The House of St. Barnabas. On a mission to break the cycle of homelessness, the member’s club funds the Employment Academy through membership, private hire and hospitality profit. If a sit-down dinner isn’t quite your style, choose The Monro Room. Emulating a traditional smoking lounge, this cosy corner of the club can comfortably accommodate 45 standing guests.
Swap dinner for the silver screen at the Bvlgari Hotel Cinema. The luxurious private cinema offers the most advanced cinema-quality HD sound and vision, including 4K resolution in 2D or the latest Dolby 3D. Choose from the hotel’s curated library of 300 new and classic titles, watch live sports events or even play video games!
WHERE TO SEEK WINTER SUN IN EUROPE
By Amira Hashish
As the nights draw in, it is time to seek a happy dose of Vitamin D. The good news is you may just be a brief journey away from sunnier climes with many European destinations still offering warm temperatures, blue skies and longer days. Here are some great winter escapes with tips on stylish hotels that still have availability to book…
Paphos, Cyprus
Temperatures: upwards of 22°c in November and 18°c in December.
Brimming with history and beauty, Paphos is fittingly thought to be the birthplace of the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite. A UNESCO world heritage spot, it has breathtaking sea views, rich history and plenty of romance. Coral Bay, nestled among banana plantations and vineyards, is the beach to head for a swim or enjoy walks amongst the ancient ruins for that beautiful blend of culture and escapism.
Where to stay: Almyra is a design-led hotel that underwent a revamp during 2020. The result is a cool, contemporary property with a playful ambience. Spread across eight acres of landscaped gardens, it is right on Paphos’ seafront with five freshwater swimming pools and a smooth wave-free zone protected by stone breakwaters. The adults-only Almyraspa is dedicated to holistic hedonism with treatments featuring apothecary. Private rooftop yoga, pilates, personal training and tennis lessons can all be booked, almyra.com.
Costa Adeje, Tenerife
Temperatures: upwards of 25°c in November and 23°c in December.
There is a romantic and intimate feel about Tenerife during the winter with plenty of sunshine to soak up. Costa Adeje is one of the most prestigious resorts. A sunset and stargazing tour at the Mount Teide National Park is a must. Tenerife’s wine production goes back to the XVI century so a vineyard tasting tour makes for a delicious experience. Scuba diving and snorkelling should be high on the agenda. Or try standup paddle-boarding along Los Gigantes, where you can admire cliff after cliff. Make a day trip to the Old Town to discover the beautiful patios and the eclectic architecture with a mix of the XV to XVIII centuries Spanish, Portuguese, British, Flemish, Italian, and French influence. Visit Roque Cinchado and Las Cañadas to see reminders of Mount Teide’s violent eruption in 1706. The Los Roques de Garcia trail leads you around the base of the Teide volcano; this eroded rock curves out of the ground and defies gravity.
Where to stay: Bahia del Duque and Las Villas are all about family-friendly luxury, privacy and Canarian flair. With Atlantic Ocean views and a design that recreates traditional Canarian Colonial villas from the 19th Century, this is a truly sumptuous base. The tropical gardens create a fabulously exotic setting. As well as spacious suites, there are many private villas for ultimate exclusivity. The hotel has five swimming pools, direct access to the promenade of the beach Playa del Duque, the award-winning Bahia Wellness Retreat and nine restaurants including the new fine-dining option, Kensei. It is home to some of the most personalised experiences in the Canary Islands. For true luxury, guests can travel to the hotel by private jet following a recent partnership with the Private Jet Services Group, thetaishotels.com/bahia-del-duque.
Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Temperatures: an average of 23°c in November and 21°c in December.
Only 64 nautical miles from the Saharan coast of Africa, it is little wonder that Lanzarote is a destination where ocean swims and sunbathing are perfectly possible throughout the festive season. The island has a secret following of A-list fans including Justin Bieber who splashed out on his very own villa there. A volcano-top restaurant, black-sand vineyards and Europe’s only underwater museum are fun places to visit.
Where to stay: With access to an almost private cove, Hotel Fariones was the first hotel built on the island in 1966 and has garnered a loyal following. It is now welcoming guests to its new chapter. The five-star retreat was renovated in 2020 and merges a contemporary design with sprawling sea views from every room. Gastronomy is taken very seriously with a selection of restaurants and bars on-site serving local produce and wine, hotelfariones.es.
Palma, Mallorca
Temperatures: an average of 19°c in November and 16°c in December
This may not be the time to go for a dip in the water at Deià but a city break in Mallorca’s capital Palma is always a pleasure. The historic destination merges characterful buildings including the striking La Seu Cathedral, the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, ‘La Lonja’ or the Arab Baths with contemporary restaurants, shopping, cafes, galleries and markets. Little wonder it is proving to be a popular filming destination with Netflix’s The Crown pitching up. The town will celebrate the 17th annual tapas TAPALMA festival from November 24 to 28. More than 50 restaurants, bars and cafes are expected to participate. Each year three routes are prepared for visitors to follow centred around Palma’s town centre, the market area of Santa Catalina and the Paseo Maritimo, tapalma.com.
Where to stay: Right in the middle of the historic centre, Sant Francesc Hotel Singular offers a brilliant base for a sophisticated city-break. The five-star boutique is set within a former Mallorcan mansion, built in 1860, which was lovingly restored in 2015 and is home to elegant rooms and signature suites, three restaurants and a fitness and a wellbeing centre. The stunning roof terrace with an enticing pool is the perfect sunbathing spot, and during the evenings the rooftop bar is just the place to enjoy a cocktail with panoramic views across the city. The relaxed fine-dining spot Quadrat Restaurant & Garden serves Mediterranean specialities with a modern twist, hotelsantfrancesc.com.
Madeira, Portugal
Temperatures: an average of 21°c in November and 19°c in December.
Nicknamed ‘the Island of eternal spring’, Madeira is fast becoming a coveted spot for a wellness-focused European getaway. The volcanic influences, clean, clear waters and unique ecosystem create the ideal climate for the luxury wellness and spa properties that have popped up. The island is centred around nature, golden beaches, turquoise coastlines and the outdoors with sun and clear skies all year round. Those looking for a more active winter break will also not be left disappointed, with rugged mountains lending themselves to biking routes, stunning walking trails and golf courses with panoramic views.
Where to stay: Reid’s Palace is a magnificent island retreat that has been the grande dame of Madeira for more than 125 years. Its mix of refined luxury, discreet service and excellent cuisine is typical of the Belmond group to which it belongs. Swim in the magnificent pools, including an enchanting tidal pool right by the ocean’s edge. Indulge in a soothing therapy at the beautiful spa and dine in Michelin-starred William Restaurant, soaking up the panoramic views. Each room or suite is designed to be a private oasis with a balcony or terrace from which to cherish the outlook, belmond.com.
The Algarve, Portugal
Temperatures: around 20°c in November and 17°c in December.
From deserted islands to award-winning beaches such as D.Ana, Meia Praia, Praia da Marinha and Falésia (which was voted best beach in the world by Trip Advisor), the Algarve has long been a haven for sea lovers. However, there is so much more to do in the region beyond the beach. Walkers and wine enthusiasts will enjoy hiking part of the Via Algarviana trail. The route crosses 11 of the 16 municipalities, so you can discover the natural landscapes and vineyards on foot. Or if you are looking to immerse yourself in watersports go surfing at Odeceixe Beach on the west coast with the best surf conditions found in the autumn and winter months.
Where to stay: Vila Monte Farm House has fresh and bright interiors by designer Vera Iachia to match its surroundings of citrus trees and pink bougainvillea. With its two local-flavour restaurants, twin swimming pools, many lounge spots and sandy beaches, this is one for fans of refined boho style, vilamonte.com.
Valletta, Malta
Temperatures: up to 21°c in November and 17°c in December.
In the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is a small island with a big draw. Perhaps the most prominent selling point is the 300 days of sun guaranteed a year. In the Winter the streets are no longer packed with tourists and the beach is relatively quiet. The ancient capital of Valletta has had a revival in recent years, with the City Gate area being remodelled by The Shard architect Renzo Piano and many of the townhouses converted into design hotels. St. Elmo Bay, on the south side of the city, is a good swimming spot and also a famous diving site where many flock to see the underwater wreck of the WWII British destroyer HMS Maori.
Where to stay: Spread across four exquisite Maltese townhouses and their ancient vaults, dating back to the 1600s, Iniala Harbour House & Residences opened in April and has 23 uniquely designed rooms and suites. The hotel is the latest opening from philanthropist, Mark Weingard and overlooks the famous Grand Harbour. The chic rooftop restaurant, ION – The Harbour was awarded a Michelin Star within six-months of opening, inialamalta.com.
Crete, Greek Islands
Temperatures: An average of 19°c in November and 15°c in December.
Blessed with stunning landscapes, beaches, food and a laid-back atmosphere, Crete is a great destination for an off-season break. It’s one of the warmest Greek islands to visit outside of the summer months when the rich history of the island can be experienced without super high temperatures. There are several ancient palaces and archaeological sites to explore, the best known being the Palace of Knossos near Heraklion. Another highlight includes Balos Lagoon and Elafonissi Beach, recognised as one of the best beaches in the world.
Where to stay: Villa Ellinka is a majestic luxury villa to rent in Crete which has a very private and picturesque location outside the quiet village of Elounda. Once a fishing village it’s now an ideal destination for people who want a Greek island holiday in a place which is neither too busy nor too isolated. The villa has six double en-suite bedrooms, one of which has a Jacuzzi. The top floor bedrooms open to private balconies with amazing views to the sea and mountains while the bottom floor bedrooms have individual patios and the garden. There is a tennis court, boules court, a croquet lawn and a large infinity pool. The pièce de résistance is direct private access to the sea. It is part of The Luxury Travel Book Collection with prices from £13,3000 for a week, theluxurytravelbook.com. For a hotel option, Abaton Island Resort & Spa is on Crete’s northern coastline. It has panoramic views and overlooks the rocky shores of Hersonissos. The turquoise waters of the Aegean sea provide a dramatic backdrop come sunrise and sunset, and an immaculate infinity pool, private sandy beach and 364m shoreline serve as the perfect settings for rest and relaxation. The Elemis spa is divine and the Buddha Bar restaurant is always buzzing. There are guest rooms, suite or villa options, abaton.gr.
Athens, Greece
Temperatures: around 20°c in November and 17°c in December
Ideal for a city break with the sea on your doorstep. In addition to the old town, Athens’ key neighbourhoods each have their own attractions and character. Explore the cafe culture in Exarchia, the vibrant nightlife in Gazi or independent shopping in Koukaki. There is a thriving art and design scene – the latest being the port city of Piraeus. With a rich history and maritime legacy that stretches back thousands of years, it is fast becoming a hip hub for art lovers.
Where to stay: The Perianth Hotel, part of the Design Hotels collection, is a modernist structure from the 1930s that has undergone a rather remarkable conversion. Architects K-Studio tackled the building’s trapezoid shape by having short corridors in a radial disposition that connect the guestrooms to a wide space in the core of each floor. Glass walls allow light to enter from the shaft of the building into the lounge areas, perianthhotel.com.
Amira Hashish is the founder and director of content, creative and events agency Rapport. Previously, executive editor of the Evening Standard, she writes columns for leading newspapers and magazines about design and travel. Follow @thedesigneditor and visit www.clubrapport.com for more.
*Before travelling abroad check the latest Covid rules and advice. The official Government rules are the best starting point and can be found here. Each country has its own rules in place for foreign arrivals so check the official tourist board guidance for your chosen destination.