Don't miss the chance to purchase items that are supporting this year's Fashion Targets Breast Cancer. You can snap up a snazzy Travel Wallet from M&S stores nationwide. It's only £2 and on sale for 2 more weeks - so get one before they go!

Fashion Targets Breast Cancer was established in 1994 by Ralph Lauren after his friend and Fashion Editor of the Washington Post, Nina Hyde died of breast cancer, and was the fashion industry’s response to the devastating impact of the disease. Since the launch of FTBC in the UK in 1996, it has raised over £10.5 million for Breakthrough Breast Cancer’s groundbreaking research, campaigning and education work.

Fashion Targets Breast Cancer 2010 marks the first time that Kylie Minogue has fronted a breast cancer charity campaign, since her own diagnosis five years ago. She said:

“It means so much to me to be part of this years’ campaign for Fashion Targets Breast Cancer. I wholeheartedly support their efforts to raise funds for the vital work undertaken by Breakthrough Breast Cancer” – Kylie Minogue

Since its inception as a T-shirt campaign, FTBC has successfully evolved into a collection of Fashion Targets product lines from leading retailers and designers.

This year FTBC is working with retailers including M&S, River Island, Warehouse, Topshop, Coast, Laura Ashley, my-wardrobe.com, Whistles, Superdry and Melissa Odabash, who have each chosen items to be sold especially for the cause. All the items will be available to buy from 29th March 2010, both in-store and online with no less than 30% of the price of each item going directly to Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

Claudia, Sienna and Kylie are calling on women everywhere to ‘Wear your support’ for Fashion Targets Breast Cancer and the 46,000 women diagnosed with the disease each year by buying items from this year’s range. Visit http://www.fashiontargetsbreastcancer.org.uk for more information.

SUMMER COMES EARLY TO THE SOUTH WEST WITH ART AND ALL THAT JAZZ AFFORDABLE ART FAIR, 14 – 16 MAY 2010 AT THE PASSENGER SHED, TEMPLE MEADS, BRISTOL

Reaffirming its position as the hottest art-buying destination in the South West, the Affordable Art Fair (AAF) returns to Bristol in May 2010 with a diverse new range of contemporary paintings, sculpture, photography and original prints priced between £50 and £3,000. 2009 saw AAF celebrate its tenth anniversary, and at the same time the worldwide event broke the £100 million mark on art sales. Between Friday 14 and Sunday 16 May 2010 Bristol gets another slice of the action when the fair returns to the Passenger Shed at Temple Meads.

A huge range of artwork will be exhibited by 55 galleries from all over the UK with a particularly strong representation of local South West artists. With the diversity and choice of art available, everyone is guaranteed to find something to suit their individual taste and budget. Enjoy perusing the pieces at your leisure in the informal and fun environment (even well-behaved dogs are welcome!), which attracts new and seasoned art buyers alike.

For the perfect family Sunday afternoon come along to ‘Art and All That Jazz’ on Sunday 16 May between 1.30 – 4.30pm where children can take part in free art workshops including mask-making and adults can enjoy a complimentary glass of wine (available to adult visitors purchasing a full price entry ticket on the day) whilst listening to the smooth sounds of the ‘45th Street Swing’ band and browsing the artwork on offer.

Put the Affordable Art Fair in your diary this year to find a unique work of art that you can treasure forever.
Dates
Friday 14 - Sunday 16 May 2010

Times
Thursday 13 May Private View 6pm – 9pm
Friday 14 May 11am – 8pm
Saturday 15 May 11am – 6pm
Sunday 16 May 11am – 5pm

Ticket prices
On the door £5 (concessions £4)
Advance £4 (concessions £3)
Free entry for children under 16

Information: 020 8246 4848
Tickets: 0870 777 2255

Venue address
The Passenger Shed, Temple Meads, Bristol, BS1 6QH

www.affordableartfair.co.uk

ELEMIS LAUNCHES WORLD’S FIRST DOUBLE SPAPOD AT DEBENHAMS OXFORD STREET WHETHER YOU’RE SHOPPING SOLO OR WITH A FRIEND, ADD SOME ‘ME TIME’ SPA THERAPY TO YOUR DAY

A smart shopper knows to add a little retail therapy into their shopping day, leaving no telltale signs they’ve been on the go all day! So, make the Elemis counter in Debenhams on Oxford Street your spa therapy destination. Launching this May 2010 is the world’s first Double Elemis SpaPod. Now there are two treatment rooms available so you can book in alone or if with a friend you can both stop for advanced facial therapy and total body revival before you continue to shop!

Massage Chair that measures the length of the spine, takes your body weight and warms the body and is then programmed to deliver a customised massage using a variety of techniques, working specifically on any problem areas. You’ll leave feeling amazing from head to toe. SpaPod WOW Factor... And check out the new innovative Smart Glass Technology. At the flick of a switch, this advanced glass instantly frosts over locking out the hustle and bustle of the beauty hall and cocoons you in its relaxing retreat-like ambiance plus you’ll notice the specially selected botanic inspired fabric by Clarissa Hulse that graces the new SpaPod ceiling giving an added touch of textured elegance. Latest news from Elemis... Since so many men and women find their skin challenged from today’s modern way of life Elemis has developed the brand new Modern Skin Power Booster Facial £45 available from 1 st April 2010.

Do you tick any of these boxes? • High stress levels • Drink a lack of water • Eat on-the-go • Spend long hours on a computer This facial layers powerful anti-oxidants, multi-minerals and vitamins to rebalance the skin’s micro-flora and pH levels, whilst encouraging important cell regeneration. The results reveal a clearer, radiant and more balanced skin. You’ll emerge from your SpaPod feeling relaxed and glowing.

W: http://www.elemis.com / http://www.timetospa.co.uk

GREAT OFFER FROM GIELLY GREEN
The salon is the brainchild of salon professionals Shai Greenberg and Fred Gielly, along with beauty expert Amanda Birch. They are unrepentant in their quest to create a salon which is in line with their own ‘back to basics’ vision of a high end personalised salon service and experienced staff, within a welcoming environment.

Gielly Green is situated in the busy shopping neighbourhood of Marylebone, just west of Manchester Square. From the moment you walk through the door at Gielly Green you will realise its uniqueness; the boutique hotel inspired interior and chocolaty, cream tones at once make you feel warm and relaxed. There is an informal, comfortable atmosphere in the salon – like you would find in a top Soho members club. Customers feel as though this is their personal retreat, a piece of tranquillity, right in the heart of London.

Gielly Green has an unwavering dedication to service, and believes that your salon experience should be a comfortable one, nothing is too much trouble. From fully reclining backwash chairs, imported from Japan, to an Indian head massage as you have your hair washed; the team will cater to your every desire.

We would love to offer HBCP readers a 10% discount if they mention 'hot brands, cool places' when booking.
http://www.giellygreen.co.uk/

HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES HOSTS SLOW FOOD RECEPTION AT HIGHGROVE
Slow Food UK was honoured to hold a reception hosted by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales at Highgrove in Gloucestershire last Tuesday 4 May 2010. The event, which included lunch and a tour of the Highgrove gardens, was to celebrate the achievements of Slow Food in the UK and to set out our vision and plans for the future to the 150 international VIP guests in attendance.

His Royal Highness has long been a supporter of the Slow Food movement and has a close association with the organisations’ founder, Carlo Petrini who travelled to the UK for the event. During his speech at the reception His Royal Highness said: ‘ The point about the Slow Food movement is reminding people about the enjoyment of proper food and how it is all linked to the management of the landscape and the countryside with all the intimate connections between food production and culture. I admire hugely what the Slow Food movement is doing.’

Slow Food is currently initiating several new projects, which Catherine Gazzoli, CEO of Slow Food UK announced at the event:

· Slow Food Baby will develop resources to guide parents in fostering an appreciation for the tastes and origins of food whilst also helping them to nourish their children

· Slow Food on Campus will establish student led groups encouraging them to grow their own vegetables, connect with local producers and advocate local sourcing.

· Slow Food Wisdom will engage with the older generation to help rediscover our food heritage.

Slow Food will also continue to develop its sensory education for children through The Taste Adventure and its support for Food Ecology through The Ark of Taste, which promotes and protects endangered heritage foodstuffs and species.

Catherine Gazzoli said in her speech on the day: ‘We work with over 1000 Slow Food groups led by committed volunteers in communities across 150 countries. They are working to mobilise awareness for good, clean and fair food - In fact, every two hours, there is a Slow Food event led by our volunteers, somewhere on this planet. In the UK, we have over sixty local groups connecting their communities from plough to plate, and the number of these groups keeps increasing.’

Amongst the distinguished guests, who support our aim of bringing good, clean and fair food to all communities across the UK, were chefs such as Angela Hartnett, Richard Corrigan, Francesco Mazzei and Tom Aikens, Slow Food board members including Prue Leith OBE and Craig Sams and representatives from our supporters and sponsors; The Sheepdrove Trust, The Balvenie, Lavazza, Grana Padano, From my Farm, nabim and Booths.

Slow Food is dedicated to promoting the greater enjoyment of food through a better understanding of its taste, quality and production. We do this through initiatives, projects, raising awareness and tackling food issues through our grassroots volunteer network formed of over 60 groups throughout the UK.

www.slowfood.org.uk

IS YOUR STREET TOP OF THE CROPS?
PlantforLife launch neighbourhood initiative to get communities growing and sharing their own fruit and vegetables
PlantforLife today announces the launch of the new Neighbourhood Crop Swap initiative targeting the 67% of the nation who would like to do more gardening but don’t know where to begin[i]. The new initiative aims to get streets in Britain growing, and most importantly, swapping their own fruit and vegetables. Neighbourhood Crop Swap is the first project of its kind and comes in light of new research from PlantforLife, showing that growing your own in the UK has doubled with over half (54%) of UK gardeners now growing fruit and vegetables, compared to just a fifth two years ago[ii].

Despite this trend, research shows 40% of people don’t think they have enough space to grow and a quarter don’t even know what they can grow[iii]. The Neighbourhood Crop Swap initiative will encourage communities to work together helping them to enjoy fresh fruit and vegetables, whatever type of garden they have. Each household will grow two or three varieties which can be swapped with neighbours, helping communities enjoy a variety of foods without needing a lot of space.

To kick start the launch of Neighbourhood Crop Swap, PlantforLife will be running a pilot scheme with the budding gardeners of a street in Twickenham. Celebrity plants man Chris Collins will be working with the street, giving tips and expert advice showing, how with the right tools and know how, everyone can get planting. The whole nation will be able to monitor their progress too by logging on to www.plantforlife.info/cropswap to see pictures and video diaries from the street.

Chris Collins comments, “Many gardeners are put off by growing fruit and vegetables as they think a huge space is needed to even start. Taking simple steps to prepare your garden can make growing really easy and both fruit and vegetables can be grown in any space, however small. This new initiative will give provide gardeners the advice they need to get planting, and swapping, allowing each household to focus on a few varieties to share with each other, getting the whole community working together.”

Stephanie Mills, resident of the Twickenham street comments, “We all want to make the most of our gardens but have been put off by lack of space and not knowing what to grow or even how. We are really looking forward to having our own fruit and vegetables and trying what our neighbours grow as this will change how the whole family think about food.”

PlantforLife has also produced a handy Neighbourhood Crop Swap guide so communities up and down the country can get their new fruit and vegetable garden underway. The easy to use guide shows gardeners everything they need to know about growing their own, from what and when to plant, to how to feed and look after their crops, including:

1. Advice on checking your soil type for different fruit and vegetables
2. How to prepare your soil
3. What and when to plant
4. A Neighbourhood Crop Swap calendar so you can plan your own garden

Log on to www.plantforlife.info/cropswap to download your free Neighbourhood Crop Swap guide with tips and advice from Chris Collins and see the latest pictures and video diaries from the street.
[i] HTA gardening continuum trends 07th January 2010
[ii] Market research conducted in August 2009 by One Poll. 2,000 people were interviewed
[iii] Market research conducted in August 2009 by One Poll. 2,000 people were interviewed

EVENT – PICNICS, PIMMS & POLO – 12TH JUNE 2010 AT ROYAL COUNTY OF BERKSHIRE POLO CLUB
Gourmet food home delivery specialists Forman & Field have teamed up with the Royal County of Berkshire Polo club to offer a day of Picnics, Pimm's, and Polo at the Prince of Wales cup final on the 12th June 2010.

The game itself – the grand finale of the prestigious Prince of Wales Cup – is a 22 goal game, with the world’s finest players competing for the title. It’s the fastest, most furious, and occasionally downright brutal level of play, promising high-octane excitement to perfectly contrast Forman & Field’s exquisite, more genteel contribution.

Hand prepared by Forman’s Restaurant chefs, Forman & Field’s picnics bring more than a hint of luxury to al fresco dining. From a quirky, handmade afternoon tea hamper to a full blown epicurean feast, their range of sumptuous picnics caters for all budgets and tastes, and can be pre-ordered to pick up on the day.

Each picnic comes with the tools required to ensure minimum fuss for the consumer; a carry box, biodegradable cutlery and crockery, glasses, napkins and bottle openers. The packages can be tailored as necessary, to accommodate special dietary requirements, or to include a little extra wine. Not just for one weekend, the picnic hampers are available for home delivery throughout the summer.

Offering refreshment between the chukkas will be an onsite bar, with pitchers of Pimm’s, ice cold beers, and a few fine wines to boot.

Orders for hampers and tickets can be placed up until the 9th June by calling Forman & Field on 0208 5252 352 or by visiting www.formanandfield.com.

REFRESH YOUR PALATE THIS SUMMER…. WITH SOUP!
- New Covent Garden Food Co. launch NEW summer soup selection
The creative chefs at New Covent Garden Food Co.’s are always bursting with fresh ideas and for their new seasonal range they’ve taken inspiration from the summer itself! With a new season upon us, it’s time to treat your taste buds to a taste of sunshine and refresh your palate after the seemingly endless winter, with NCG’s NEW range of light and refreshing summer soups.

Containing two new, delicious soups – Sunshine Yellow Tomato and Spicy Sweetcorn, and three refreshed favourites from last year – Pea & Mint, Gazpacho and Summer Vegetable, all five soups are packed full of your favourite, summer vegetables and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Not only are they the perfect choice for al fresco dining on a long, hot summer evening, but are also great for a refreshing snack, light lunch or supper.

All our soups are available in supermarkets and independent retailers nationwide priced around £1.99. As with all New Covent Garden Food Co. soups, our summer soups contain no additives or preservatives, flavourings, colourings or modified starch of any kind. All the fresh soups in our range also feature the government approved FSA traffic light labelling system for the identified categories of fat, saturated fat, sugar and salt, making it easier for consumers to see what they’re getting.

For further information about New Covent Garden Food Co.’s delicious range of products, check out: http://www.newcoventgardenfood.com/

SUMMER IN THE SQUARE

Where: Princes Square, Buchanan Street, Glasgow

When: Thursday 27th May until Saturday 31st July 2010

Summary: Glasgow’s boutique shopping and dining destination invites adults and children alike to soak up the special and sizzling holiday atmosphere, no matter what the Scottish weather decides to throw at us. Enjoy a summer packed full of a variety of free and fun themed events for all the family, delectable lunch and dining offers, and fashion promotions. The ’Summer in the Square’ season gets off to a stylish start on Thursday May 27th with the unveiling of a special two-month long competition that will have fashionistas tripping over their heels to be within a chance of winning! Free cocktails and cupcakes on offer at launch night (27th May) for a limited time.

For more info: For more information about Princes Square and its ‘Summer in the Square’ experience, please visit www.princessquare.co.uk or follow us on twitter@PrincesSquare

WALES LONGEST BEACHES IN CARMARTHENSHIRE AWARDED COVETED BLUE FLAGS

Cefn Sidan Beach in Pembrey Country Park, Carmarthenshire, was yesterday awarded its 18th Blue Flag. At eight miles Cefn Sidan is Wales’ longest beach and was the first beach in Wales to ever achieve Blue Flag status some 20 years ago. Sitting a few miles down the coast, Pendine Sands, another seven mile stretch, has also been awarded a Blue Flag, giving Carmarthenshire an epic 15 miles of Blue flag beaches to explore.

Stretching across eight miles, Cefn Sidan is Wales’s longest beach sitting alongside the popular Pembrey country Park. This vast stretch sweeps around to a lovely farm-fringed estuary where the River Tywi meets the sea at the olde-worlde seaside towns of Ferryside and Llanstephan. Pembey County Park has just been announced as the venue for Beach Break Live (http://www.beachbreaklive.com).

Pendine, nudging the borders of Pembrokeshire, is 7 miles long. It stretches from Gilman Point in the west to Laugharne Sands in the east. The village of Pendine is situated near the western end of Pendine Sands. It is also the start of Wales’ newest stretch of coast path to open – the 4.5 miles which runs from Pendine taking you to Amroth, bang on the border of Pembrokshire.

There’s history here too. This vast stretch is where the World Land Speed Record was set. During the 1920s, the sands at Pendine echoed to the roar of monster machines driven by the likes of Sir Malcolm Campbell and JG Parry Thomas. Overlooking the beach is the impressive 'Museum of Speed', a building jam-packed with record-breaking stories, vehicles and other racing paraphernalia. The most famous of these is 'Babs', the vehicle in which Parry Thomas lost his life in a record-breaking attempt.

For more information on holidays and short breaks to Carmarthenshire go to http://www.discovercarmethenshire.com

ARTISAN DU CHOCOLAT – LIMITED EDITION ORCHID AND ORANGE BLOSSOM CHOCOLATE BAR WWW.ARTISANDUCHOCOLAT.COM
Artisan du chocolat have created a special, limited edition Orchid and Orange Blossom chocolate bar for this spring.

It takes a surprisingly strong chocolate to balance the heady and sweet natural fragrance of orchids and the Artisan bar is made with a blend of bitter Venezuelan and slightly acidic Mexican beans, rounded by orange bossom.

The Orchid and Orange Blossom bar is Artisan’s donation for the Chelsea Flower Show Charity Gala Preview on the 29th May and is available from all Artisan shops, priced at £2.50 for 45g.

Artisan du chocolat now also has concession shops in Selfridges in Manchester Exchange Square and Selfridges Birmingham. Artisan du chocolat Tel. 0845 270 6996

CELEBRATE SUMMER WITH RADLEY’S 3 FOR 2 OFFER
Radley launches their sugary sweet, candy coloured Summer collection, with a traditional British ‘Sweet Shop’ theme in-store and online. You can Pick ‘n’ Mix from Radley’s fantastic collection for handbags and accessories, and the best news is that when you buy 3 items, Radley will give you the cheapest totally free!
With it’s unwavering nod to everything British, the Radley range has once again captured a true Summer feel. Discover 3 for 2 offers on all products ranging from their renowned leather and canvas handbags, to their new range of fanciful footwear or opt for the eco friendly, recycled foldaway totes. For a more eclectic ‘Pick and Mix’ experience, while away the hours choosing between their fifties inspired sunglass collection, their beautiful silk scarves or just because we are British, it may be necessary to indulge in one of their floral or beach print, retro umbrellas.

The offer is available in all Radley stand alone stores across the UK and online at http://www.radley.co.uk/

THE FEATHERS CELEBRATES ITS NEW LOOK WITH 4 STARS AND A VERY SPECIAL OFFER
The Feather’s Hotel, Oxfordshire, has had a beautiful new re-design bringing it to a prestigious 4 Star status. To celebrate, the boutique hotel is inviting guests to experience its new look with a special dinner, bed & breakfast offer.

Stay at the ‘new look’ Feathers Special Offer

Enjoy dinner, bed & breakfast between 1st May and 30th June for £79 per person per night. The package includes a complimentary cucumber Martini or Hendricks Gin &Tonic, accommodation in a Woodstock double bedroom, a delicious three course dinner in the hotels highly regarded two AA rosette restaurant and a full English breakfast. The offer is based upon two people sharing a double bedroom and is subject to availability.

The hotel’s full refurbishment has seen all 20 bedrooms take on a fresh contemporary look with bold Designer’s Guild fabrics and eye catching colour schemes from Osborne & Little amongst others. It has added a fabulous new suite and a great private dining room for six people, making it perfect for a delicious dinner in total privacy. The pretty courtyard garden has also had a face-lift, and makes a stunning location to sample a Gin & Tonic or a delicious Cucumber Martini from the hotel’s large collection of Gins – the largest in the UK.

The Feathers Hotel, Market Street, Woodstock, Oxon, OX20 1SX, 01993 812291
www.feathers.co.uk

THE EBURY WELCOMES IN SPRING WITH THE CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW
The Ebury will be getting into the spring feeling this May with the arrival of the Chelsea Flower Show. Between the 25th- 29th May, London will be in full bloom and the chic brasserie will be launching its very own Rose Petal Martini especially for this momentous week to celebrate the world’s most famous flower show.

This fresh, floral cocktail contains Rose Petal Liqueur and Hendricks Gin beautifully served in a chilled martini glass, garnished with a fragrant rose petal. The Ebury is just a stone’s throw from the flower show located in fashionable Chelsea. The brassiere’s décor is fitting for spring with an array of grand windows giving a feeling of space and light to the room. This décor continues into their first floor events space with high ceilings, floods of natural light and walnut wood decor which can be hired out for private parties and celebratory occasions, making it a truly versatile private space.

You can be swept away by spring with The Ebury’s fresh menu which includes such delights as the Chilled Gazpacho with Garlic Croutons and Beef Carpaccio, Rocket, Parmesan & Truffle Dressing to start. The Ebury also serves a great selection of summer salads such as Smoked Chicken, Peanuts and Mango Salad with Honey and Chilli Dressing and the Classic Tuna Niçoise: Tuna, French Beans, New Potatoes, Tomatoes, Black Olives & a Soft Boiled Egg.

Alternatively The Ebury stocks a range of sumptuous fish and meat dishes, including Steamed Mussels, Thai Red Curry, Coriander, Garlic & Chilli Crisps and Roast Duck Breast, Confit Carrots, Mushrooms & Garlic, Endive Salad. To complete this summer spread, desserts include Summer Pudding with Clotted Cream & Berry Coulis and Sticky Toffee Pudding & Vanilla Ice Cream with Butterscotch Sauce. Diners can also toast in the beginning of spring with The Ebury’s extensive wine list, which includes an array of rose wines- perfect to mark the new season.

Celebrate the start of spring and The Chelsea Flower show at The Ebury.

The Ebury
11 Pimlico Road
London
SW1W 8NA
Tel: 0207 730 6784
http://www.theebury.co.uk/

Closest Tube: Victoria or Sloane Square

BRUNELLO AT THE BAGLIONI HOTEL LAUNCHES A STUNNING NEW APERITIVO OFFERING TO CELEBRATE THE NEW LOOK RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE
To celebrate the lovely early evening sunshine and the long balmy summer nights, the bar and lounge of the Brunello Restaurant in the Baglioni Hotel London has gone all Venetian with a fabulous new barcaro style aperitivo offering. From May 2010, the Brunello aperitivo will be available every day and night with a stunning range of house cocktails alongside the delectable new list of cichetti especially devised by Head Chef Andrea Vercelli.

Brunello restaurant, bar and lounge has also had a breathtaking Spring makeover with vibrant new banquettes and armchairs draped in opulent silver and gold brocade.

Chef Vercelli’s range of cichetti includes the like of Prawn tempura with tartare sauce, Assorted Salami, Veal with Tuna sauce, Burrata with aubergine caponata, Beef bresaola with rocket, Meatballs with tomato sauce, Native oysters, Deep fried calamari, smoked salmon on brown bread, Peppers with bagna cauda, Tomato bruschetta and Palma ham sticks. All the cichetti featured are priced at £9 for a selection of three.

The List of House cocktails paired with this brand new offering are priced at £13.50 and include, Camparone, campari, martini bianco and orange juice, Italian Spritzer, aperol and prosecco, Bubbly Brunello, cointreau, grand marnier, archers, schnapps, limejuice, gomme sirop and prosecco, Capirona, fresh lime, angostura bitters, amaretto di saronno and Passione Italiana, fresh passion fruit, passion fruit juice, gomme sirop, passoa fruits and aperol.

What better way to relax and unwind at the end of a long hard day than with a plate of something moreish and a perfectly made cocktail topped off with the sumptuous surroundings of one of London's finest hotels - for aperitivo hour in London it has to be Brunello!

Brunello Restaurant, The Baglioni Hotel, 60 Hyde Park Gate, London SW7 5BB

A SLICE OF MANHATTAN IN COVENT GARDEN - THE FORGE LAUNCHES WINE FLIGHTS
The Forge restaurant and bar in Covent Garden is introducing a new innovation in wine tasting– Wine Flights. This recent phenomenon has taken Europe and the United States by storm, with groups of friends, colleagues or clients meeting in their favourite haunt to taste a selection of wines all presented and discussed by an expert sommelier.

Every Monday, The Forge will be showcasing ten of their finest wines, served in a tasting rack, in 5cl measures. Each guest will therefore taste 50cl of red and white wine along with a hand chosen selection of food to compliment each variety. Each place costs just £25 for this remarkable opportunity.

Guests will taste wines including the following:

· Beaujolais – Morgon – Deep in colour and an attractive spicy edge to the raspberry notes

· Chinon – Cuvee Terroir – Juicy black fruit concentration and herbal pungency

· Vermentino di Bolgheri – A crisp, lemony drink. Made with floral fruit

· Chalonnaise – Bourgogne Aligote – Deliciously bright. Crisp and minerally with herby fruit

· Morellino di Scansano – Fragrant and beautiful yet soft with an array of ripe fruits

Guests are encouraged to stay at their leisure in the elegant surroundings of The Forge. The exposed brickwork and large arched windows add to the rustic warmth of the restaurant, whilst the downstairs bar offers a stylish intimacy to drinks and nibbles. Head Chef Andrew Barber has created a delightful, seasonally changing menu, which includes dishes such as Vol-au-vent of devilled lambs kidneys, Sauté of frogs legs with butter, garlic and parsley and Braised ox cheek with celeriac fondant and roasted parsnips.

For bookings at The Forge Restaurant, call 020 7379 1531 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The Forge, 14 Garrick Street, London, WC2E 9BJ

SUNDOWNERS AND COCKTAILS AT KENSINGTON SQUARE KITCHEN
Kensington Square Kitchen is the perfect summer secret and is now open in the evening. Head chef and owner Sara Adams has adjusted her remarkably delicious menu for the summer nights to include dishes such as a fish of the day, risotto and salads. As well as this, Sara has formulated a brilliant wine list and is hosting a wine club every Friday at lunch. The kitchen will be serving light summery food and will be open from 6.30pm-9.30pm and drinks and cocktails will be available until late. Situated on one of the prettiest squares in London, Kensington Square Kitchen is the ideal destination for breakfast, brunch, lunch or afternoon tea and now light suppers and cocktails. This really is the perfect location for cocktails, summer sundowners after work or just relaxing at the weekend.
http://www.kensingtonsquarekitchen.co.uk

WHAT’S NEW THIS SPRING IN GREATER MIAMI AND THE BEACHES

Stars align in Miami this spring, as the destination rolls out the red carpet for upcoming film festivals and celebrity-filled events. New hotels, spas, restaurants, night clubs, retail outlets and other attractions continue to add to the destination’s appeal as a tropical paradise with a chic, cosmopolitan atmosphere, setting the stage for a glamorous getaway. Here is an update on the latest news:

HOTEL HAPPENINGS

The Betsy http://www.thebetsyhotel.com/ extends its inspirational design and imaginative amenities with a new Wellness Garden http://www.thebetsyhotel.com/amenities/spa-and-wellness-garden offering a range of spa treatments and therapies. Located on the hotel’s rooftop, the Wellness Garden offers unobstructed views of the ocean. The Zen-inspired sanctuary was designed to soothe the senses with earth born elements – such as wood, stone, bamboo and natural fibers. Treatments available include massages, body treatments, facials, as well as manicures and pedicures tailored for both men and women utilizing spa products from the luxurious Éminence range. http://www.thebetsyhotel.com/.

The Hotel has added 20 new oceanviewdeluxe rooms and suites, including two 850 sq. ft. oceanfront terrace suites, bringing The Hotel’s total room count to 73 units. Opened in late 2009, the new property that faces the beach at Lummus Park is located in an historic 3-story art deco building above the iconic News Café. The Todd Oldham’s designed rooms reflect the destination’s awe-inspiring sunsets, with a distinctive warm palate of red, coral, and orange, balanced by touches of gray and brown. All accommodations feature remote 42” flat screen cable televisions with movie channels, DVD, video library, CD stereo system, mini bar and wireless Internet. http://www.thehotelofsouthbeach.com/.

The Palms Hotel & Spa in Miami Beach enters a new decade with the completion of its luxurious $20 million enhancement project and two new exemplary designations, which include an AAA 4-diamond rating and membership in the iconic Preferred Hotels & Resorts program. The extensive 16-month completed enhancement project, which includes a 5,000 square-foot flagship AVEDA destination spa and salon - The Palms Spa, a new signature restaurant and lounge - Essensia, beautification of the pool and garden, refurbished meeting and event facilities and upgrades to the hotel’s lobby areas. http://www.thepalmshotel.com/.

Miami’s highly anticipated Hotel Urbano at Brickell, the destination’s newest “Art Hotel”, is now open in the Financial District. Partnering with Art Fusion Galleries of the Miami Design District, Hotel Urbano consistently has new exhibits on display that are introduced seasonally. This chic 65-room boutique hotel provides visitors with art-inspired surrounds, while offering locals a new stylish venue for functions, after work cocktails and tantalizing cuisine. The hotel features a tropical, free form swimming pool and waterfall and a restaurant boasting art-inspired menus, fusing South Florida and Cuban cuisine. http://www.hotelurbano.com/.

COOL CUISINE AND NIGHT LIFE

B Bar Miami is the newest temptation on Ocean Drive. Discreetly hidden on the lower level of The Betsy Hotel, this sexy space offers a speakeasy vibe with its small, simple and dim interior. Inspired by the elegant nightclub scenes of the 1920s, B Bar is an alluring, timeless escape from the South Beach norm. For more information, visit http://www.bbarmiami.com/.

Mokai, one of South Beach’s most celebrated boites reopened in March 2010. The new Mokai celebrates the effortless cool that put this venue on the map, along with a contemporary, refreshed design created to appeal to uptown champagne swillers, downtown darlings, Black Card holders, and electro chicks alike. Featuring eye popping cherry-red sofas, black lacquered walls, lipstick-pink panels, an “Alice In Wonderland” array of custom-designed chandeliers, and a Baccarat-inspired chandelier pit – a modern take on a traditional fireplace - Mokai’s design embraces modern New York sensibility and Miami joie de vivre. Other eye candy elements include a collector’s selection of art and fashion photography, contemporary Moroccan lattice work, and a grand showcase bar. For more information visit http://www.mokaimiami.com/

The Strip, a new exclusive nightclub in the heart of South Beach, is setting a new standard for nightlife opportunities in Greater Miami and The Beaches. The décor is best described as the Golden Age of Hollywood mixed with the styling of a femme fatale’s boudoir: plush velvet seating, suspended swings, 12-foot crystal chandeliers, and walls covered with leather, fringe, and feathers. All creates the perfect pleasure den to showcase burlesque and cutting-edge performance art. http://www.thestripmiami.com/.

London’s award winning restaurant, ZUMA, will open its first North American location in downtown’s EPIC Hotel & Residences this May 2010. The brainchild of German chef Rainer Becker, ZUMA offers a sophisticated cuisine philosophy inspired by the informal Japanese dining style called Izakaya. He developed the ZUMA concept of authentic, nontraditional, Japanese cuisine while working in Tokyo where he spent six successful years learning the intricacies of both Japanese food and culture. http://www.zumarestaurant.com/.

ATTRACTION ACTION AND SPECIAL EVENTS

The Sea View Hotel has launched the Bal Harbour Village Kids Camp, with children’s learning activities designed by Miami Children’s Museum – a first for the institution. This satellite education program teaches and engages children through daily themed workshops. Kids can create their own masterpieces with “Little Masters,” learn about recycling and conservation with “Eco-Explorers” and prepare healthy meals with “Nutrition Mission.” http://www.balharbourflorida.com/destination/kids.

Coral Gables Museum, opening in late 2010, will be located at the city’s historic fire and police station on Aragon Avenue. The museum will showcase the civic arts of architecture, urban design, planning, and historic and environmental preservation. For more information, visit http://www.coralgablesmuseum.org/.

Cultural Calendar in Bal Harbour, is a new weekly Thursday-night outdoor entertainment series. An eclectic line up is promised which includes South Florida Afro-Latin funk band ¡Suénalo!, The New World Symphony, up-and-coming local bands, Latin jazz sensation Nestor Torres, the Gypsy Kings. and under-the-stars screenings of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and “Mamma Mia.” http://www.balharbourflorida.com/destination/culture.

David Barton Gym is now offering complimentary classes on the beaches of Bal Harbour for guests of the exclusive beachside community. Classes include a “Walk/Run Club,” “Beach View Yoga” and a cardio boot camp called “Drenched,” three times per week. The program is open to the Bal Harbour community, so visitors can meet the locals and get the skinny on what to do in the area while visiting. To enhance the wellness experience, guests at Bal Harbour’s two hotels -- the new five-star ONE Bal Harbour, Resort & Spa and The Sea View Hotel – can also partake of healthy cooking classes and wellbeing lectures. For more information, visit http://www.davidbartongym.com/.

Following its official opening a year ago, EPIC, downtown Miami’s luxury lifestyle, waterfront boutique hotel has revealed a new outdoor green space providing a scenic Miami venue for outdoor parties and events. Named EPIC Lawn, the green space spans 32,500 square feet and covers the area alongside the EPIC Marina and Biscayne Bay. It is available for day and nighttime events, weddings and teambuilding activities with a capacity for social galas of 500 or more. For more information, visit http://www.epichotel.com/.

Miami Metrozoo is rebuilding its popular Carousel Café. Demolition has been finalized and the estimated completion date is scheduled for mid-March 2010. The construction of the new café will include $100,000 worth of new equipment. Miami Metrozoo is also building a new $300,000 Rhino Feeding Encounter area which is expected to be completed in April 2010. This new exhibit will enable zoo visitors to get up close and feed this beautiful animal. For more information, visit http://www.miamimetrozoo.com/.

Monkey Jungle is celebrating the 50th Anniversary of our Amazonian Rainforest with a new behind the scenes “Rainforest Adventure Tour”. Since Hurricane Andrew, public access to the Rainforest has been limited. Explorers on this adventure are immersed in a five acre natural habitat filled with South American monkeys. As you cross a slow running stream, to a bridge over a large natural sinkhole, this living laboratory seems to come alive and enables you to experience the unique thrill of the touch of the squirrel monkeys hand or the greeting from a capuchin monkey. During the tour you will learn about the monkey’s adaptations to an arboreal lifestyle. For more information, visit http://www.monkeyjungle.com/.

The Miami Seaquarium has unveiled a new $350,000 Stingray Touch Pool. Visitors can now feel the gentle glide of Southern Stingrays and Cownose Rays at the new 10,000 gallon exhibit inside the Tropical Wings enclosure. http://www.miamiseaquarium.com/.

RETAIL NEWS

The Village at Gulfstream Park is south Florida’s newest outdoor shopping and entertainment destination, featuring a sizzling collection of fashion boutiques, top of the line home accessory shops, signature restaurants, outdoor cafes and nightclubs. It is the first lifestyle center in the country built in conjunction with a thoroughbred racing facility. The Village immerses guests in a lavish Mediterranean experience of lush gardens, pedestrian promenades, inviting streetscapes and striking architectural details. A showcase of renowned architect Addison Mizner’s signature style, The Village at Gulfstream Park is a perfect complement to Florida’s sun drenched setting. It invites guests to indulge in an international array of fashion, dining and unique entertainment options. For more information, visit http://www.thevillageatgulfstreampark.com/.

The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) is a non-profit sales and marketing organization whose mission is to attract visitors to Greater Miami and the Beaches for leisure, business and conventions. For a vacation guide visit our website at http://www.MiamiAndBeaches.com or call 020 7978 5233. Follow GMCVB on Twitter:@miamiandbeaches or on Facebook: Facebook.com/miamiandbeaches.

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