the buzz

what's got us buzzing at b

[justtheletterb]

evren | ods turkey

on beautiful bodrum

We work and party hard in Istanbul, and as the heat rises in the city in summer, so does my desire to escape to the crystal blue waters and beautiful beaches of Bodrum. It should be on everyone's escape list, simply because of its diversity and beauty!  

Not being one to sit still on a sunbed for too long, I revel in the wide range of things to do, whether it's exploring all the historical sites by jeep (home of Herodotus and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven World Wonders of the World), or embarking a traditional Turkish gulet to lazily sail around the Bodrum Peninsula, visiting outstanding seafood restaurants in hidden coves along the way. 

As you move away from the trendy restaurants and nightclubs, the crowning castle and bustling marina of Bodrum town, you quickly stumble across its original Aegean charm with its blue-trimmed, white-washed houses and then out further still to the laid-back coastal villages and rugged coastline. It's just utter bliss.

The Peninsula has its own airport which makes travel easy and which is well connected with domestic and international flights on a daily basis. Bodrum has some of the best equipped, modern marinas which has always been home to those who sail and swim the seas.

There’s an abundance of coastal resorts to choose from and one of these elite options - and one of my favourites - is the Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay. Located on the picturesque land on the shores of Gökova Bay, this is the meeting point for sophisticated travellers on the most untouched part of the peninsula.

All rooms, suites, residences, restaurants and the spa offer unparalleled views of the turquoise Aegean Sea, surrounded by authentic Turkish hospitality and crowned with a variety of services – a private sandy beach, infinity pool, private marina and marina butler, along with a private day cruiser. 

What more could you possibly need?

www.ods.com.tr

[justtheletterb]

gabriele | mutika dmc & events

on his now spiritual home of sicily

Being a frequent traveler, both for work and for leisure, I've learnt that each city, whether a tiny, remote fisherman's village, or a big, bustling metropolis, has much more to offer than may first appear on the surface. It's fantastically challenging to find the true essence of each place I visit - trace back its roots, catch glimpses of how locals really live, who and what they celebrate or what is the spice that makes a dish so delicious. One of the places I find an abundance of this spontaneity is Sicily. It's the place of my birth, so I'm perhaps a little biased, but it's because of what the island truly represents that I keep returning: a beautifully paradoxical island of contrasts, where time seems to stand still and people cheerfully welcome you. Sicilians go out of their way to make you feel at home, and even though many do not speak much English, that does not stop them from communicating (especially with their well-known gesticulations!). I'm especially in love with is Val di Noto, in south-eastern Sicily. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Val di Noto covers eight unique baroque cities (including Modica where Mutika's HQ is located) scattered around the provinces of Catane, Syracuse and Ragusa. 

What they can offer is not just tourism, but a thousand ways of experiencing the most authentic Sicilian lifestyle with a hundred forms of enjoying art, museums, typical markets and flavours, beaches, culinary tradition and so much more. Majestic baroque churches, wide open beaches and turquoise sea, unspoiled natural reserves and a multi-coloured culinary panorama are some of the perks that make Val di Noto really unique and worth experiencing.

But what makes it really special is the kindness of its inhabitants, its generous hospitality, its warm weather throughout the year (and of course its extremely copious amount of food!)

Maybe the climate shapes the attitude of Sicilian people; perhaps history had a hand in this too, Sicily having been a crossroad of cultures for over 3,000 years and Sicilians open towards foreigners; or maybe everyone simply loves to do their very best to make everyone feel at ease, happy and comfortable in Sicily.

Come and see it for yourself, and don’t be surprised to hear the word mangia (eat) pretty often!

[justtheletterb]

kerry | green route africa

on the great migration

With wildebeest and zebras migrating in their millions, and the great predators of Africa following in their wake, Kenya's vast savannahs are peppered with immense herds of spectacular wildlife - and I would honestly say - there is no better time to go than now, as August is one of the most consistent months to view the famed migration river crossings! 

What I love most about a holiday to Kenya is not only the chance to witness this amazing spectacle first-hand, but also the opportunity to embrace and truly enjoy the spirit of Africa at some of the world's most exclusive and luxurious lodges such as Angama Mara. This property has an almost dreamlike effect on me making me feel like I'm somewhere 'between heaven and earth' and is one of my favourite places to stay when visiting Kenya. 

Besides this, I think Kenya is perfect for all types of travellers - as one can opt to go trekking the glacial ridges of Mount Kenya, hot air ballooning over the Masai Mara, snorkelling at the Marine National Park in Malindi on the Indian Ocean coast, or simply enjoy a glass of wine while staring out onto some of the most beautiful landscapes the world has to offer. Nairobi also has an interesting urban appeal with its crazy traffic, cafes, museums and nightlife. 

www.greenroute.co.za

[justtheletterb]

greg | briggs alliedpra

does like the locals do in montauk

New York City is a destination that offers something for everyone, and that includes the beach! I recently joined the team at Briggs, but have been living in NYC for seven years and have recently started doing the local thing by leaving the city for breezier weather on the weekends.

Within one to three hours you find yourself on a plethora of beaches of various vibes. Whether you want to mingle with casual surfers, or hob knob with the rich and famous, there's a place for you.

One of my favourite ways to spend the weekend is to drive straight out to Montauk (the end as many refer to it, or those local to Montauk, 'the beginning'). If my wife and I want to spoil ourselves, we stay at Gurney's, a 146-room resort right on the water that is truly exceptional. I feel like I've been whisked away to another part of the world! I love starting my weekend with dinner there at Scarpetta. Their spaghetti with tomato and basil just makes me smile. 

After a nice beach run in the morning, I’ll take our car to the lighthouse for a bit of hiking around the cliffs. Often times you can work your way down to the beach and watch the local fisherman cast their rods to find the freshest catch of the day. After that, I usually head to the beach for a little sun and relaxation.

As my appetite kicks up for a mid-day lunch, I’ll head back to town to grab some delicious shrimp tacos and a local crisp lager (Blue Point or Montauk Breweries are my favourite) at a place called Tacombi. Since I’m a fair-skinned midwesterner, I can’t spend to much time on the beach, so I’ll continue taking advantage of the weather by heading to the Surf Lodge to sip innovative cocktails or a cold rosé. It’s a true Hamptons party scene there so it’s hard to leave, but usually, I pull myself away to head back to the beach for the gorgeous sunsets.

If you want to venture outside of Montauk, some of my favourite towns to explore are Sag Harbor, East Hampton, Water Mill and Bridgehampton. Each offer something different, from mom and pop shops with arts and crafts to luxury fashion designers. Before it’s time to head back to reality in NYC, I always like to make a pit stop at Scoop Du Jour for some ice cream to sweeten up the bitter taste I usually have when I leave this paradise and head back to work in the city.

www.briggsnyc.com

[justtheletterb]

nagesh | incent india

on the joys of jaisalmer

I visited Jaisalmer in 1978. 

A camel cart transferred me to what was then the city's most luxurious hotel, the Tourist Bungalow, which had four rooms.

Fast forward to a weekend break in 2014, there are more four wheel drives than you would care to count. Occasionally, you might see a camel. The city has spread itself like the tentacles of an octopus in all four directions with the Golden Citadel as its centrepiece, but there is something magical about Jaisalmer - a certain something, a je ne sais quoi about this medieval fortress.

In the words of Sting, "I enter the fort through old doors guarded by tribesmen standing beside camels and move into a dimly lit courtyard where candles flicker in stone niches. A band of musicians strike up a song – of war, women, welcome? Who knows, but it is stirring stuff." From Roxanne to Rajasthan.

Jaiselmer is unique. Not only is it the oldest, and the most spectacular, fort in Rajasthan - dating from the 12th century - but it is the oldest inhabited citadel in the world. Some 20,000 people today - and it can sometimes seem, an equal number of cows - live within its walls, and the medieval battlements and turrets spread out like an illustration from The Arabian Nights.

Suryagarh is the hotel where I choose to stay and you simply have to if you venture here one day. The stunning 40-acre property with 72 rooms has been built using architectural cues from old forts and local temples in and around Jaisalmer. Its ramparts, moat, carved pillars and even the latticework are emblematic of the region.

Led by their eclectic General Manager, they’ll pamper you from the moment you walk in. Enjoy an evening of song and dance, kebabs and biryani at the Lake Gardens set to the melodies of Mehboob Khan, a pedigreed desert musician who belongs to a clan of musicians known as the Manganiyars. Watch the Gair dancers ‘whirling dervishes’ perform alongside the Kalbélia’s, women in flowing black skirts who dance and swirl, replicating the movements of a serpent, while men accompany them on the ‘khanjari' a percussion instrument.

But let us bring back the camel. After all, it's the ship of the desert. Ride on camels through an abandoned village where the eerie is very present!

Then set down for sundowners. Drive (or be driven in) a ‘desi’ local 4-wheeler deep into the desert, where myths and legends get a new lease of life, old tales become plausible, cemeteries hold great treasures and temples in the middle of nowhere become landmarks of culture.

And here you can enjoy a sumptuous spread of Indian savouries and sip champagne a volonté. Come. Experience the joys of Jaisalmer.

Jaisalmer has two daily direct flights from Delhi and Jaipur at convenient times which allows you to connect the Golden City and the Pink City.

www.incentindia.com

[justtheletterb]

meet the a team at b | part 1

We like to think we're small but perfectly formed at b.

We're proud to have partnered with only the best DMCs - the innovators, the ones that go above and beyond. This is the 'A Team'.

With International Women's Day and Mother's Day last week, we continue celebrating great women by introducing you to two of our favourite women. 

sarah gippin | briggs, an alliedPRA company

If you could organise an event in any venue, where would that be? 

Central Park is such a NYC treasure.  Events are, for the most part, off limits in the public spaces but it's my dream to put together a gala event on the Great Lawn with a clear span tent that allows for the lights of the city to shine down onto the oasis of the park. It would be absolutely magical.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

The power to teleport would hands down be my choice. I would love to have the ability to be anywhere in the world in the blink of an eye. The power would likely be used to avoid the subway commutes to and from my home in the East Village and my office in Time Square. I'd also probably pop over to whatever country's food I'm craving on a nightly basis. At the end of the day though, I'd always come back to my favourite place on earth, New York City. What is your favourite or secret place to escape to?There's a little known island in New York called Fire Island. There are no cars allowedon the island in the summer months so it is accessed by ferry. All of the stress of the week leaves my body the second I get on the boat. It's absolutely peaceful and although it's less than two hours away by train and boat, it feels like I've flown to another continent. Little feels better at the end of a crazy summer week in the city than sitting on the beach with a cold glass of Long Island Rosé.

What inspires you?

I'm inspired by people that are committed to the fight for social justice. My grandmother was an avid activist that marched on the streets of Alabama along with Martin Luther King. Her passion and strength continue to ignite in me, a desire to work towards a better and more just world.

www.briggsnyc.com

kerry roos | green route africa

What is your personal favourite destination in Southern and East Africa? 

Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe (The Smoke That Thunders) is the original, adrenaline-inducing adventure capital of Southern Africa and has so many varied experiences to choose from, all of which are centred around the falls. I was born in Zimbabwe and am so proud of the resilience of the local people who are some of the most hospitable and welcoming people that I have come across in all my travels across the world. I was actually at Angama Mara in the Maasai Mara in Kenya, my personal favourite destination in East Africa, when I heard the news of the new dawn in Zimbabwe. I am filled with hope and excited to be spending a lot more time there in the near future!

How would you describe a perfect day in your home city, Cape Town? 

It starts with an early morning run on Sea Point Promenade whilst the sun rises over the city. If you are lucky, you might bump into our new President getting his daily exercise! Next, a croissant and a freshly brewed cup of coffee from one of Cape Town's many micro-roastieries such asTruth Coffee Shop (voted the Best Coffee Shop in the World for two years running), followed by a slow stroll down Long Street, exploring the maze of stalls which make up Green Market Square - here you will find arts and crafts vendors from all corners of Africa - and the many smaller independent art galleries which have popped up along this strip. 

Enjoy a well deserved lunch at Chefs Canteen on trendy Bree Street while you people watch, then work on your tan on one of Clifton's blue flag status beaches. No visit to Cape Town would be complete without a glass of sparkling wine (South African of course) on Table Mountain as the sun sets over the Atlantic Ocean. This perfect day would be rounded off with an eight course gourmand tasting menu at La Colombe Restaurant in the Constantia Winelands, voted one of the top ten restaurants in the country.

If you have still not had enough of the Mother City, there are plenty of options to chose from to enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife until the early hours of the morning.  

What would 'plan b' have been if you had to have a different career?

When I was at school, I was very set on becoming a photographer. By the time I started university the plan was actually to do law! Thank goodness that my life took me down a different path and I am very privileged to be passionate about what I do.

www.greenroute.co.za

[justtheletterb]

nepal beckons

It's an exciting - if perhaps uncertain - new year. With that comes new resolutions, more ambitious goals and higher targets to hit. Make it your resolution this year to go above and beyond into the unusual and unexpected when it comes to destination choice for your next incentive or event. Whether it's trekking with gorillas in Rwanda, exploring the charming villages of Puglia or choosing Brooklyn over Manhattan, you can take baby steps, or be completely adventurous. For those who fall into the latter category - the more intrepid travellers - there is naturally Nepal with Incent India...

bed down in a UNESCO heritage site

Draped along the greatest heights of the Himalayas, Nepal is where the ice-cold of the mountains meets the steamy heat of the Indian plains. It's a land of yaks and yetis, stupas and sherpas and some of the best trekking on earth. The Himalaya's most sophisticated urban cultures took shape here, in the three great minikingdoms of the Kathmandu Valley - Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur - home to a world-class artistic and architectural heritage. 

Nepal has eight UNESCO Heritage Sites and has won Heritage Awards for two of them, one for the medieval city of Bhaktapur and the other for Dwarika's Hotel where we start our journey. The magnificence of Dwarika's is its buildings of intricate carved wood and terracotta work that took close to ten million hours of the best craftsmen in Nepal. Every brick is handmade and every piece of wood work is an original from a century ago. Built upon a rich tradition of Nepali hospitality and incorporating some of the country's most exquisite architectural traditions, the Dwarika's Hotel in Kathmandu is an authentic experience of Nepal's ancient cultural heritage.

everest for breakfast

Fly through the mighty Himalayas by helicopter, taking in the amazing sights of the Kathmandu Valley and the incredible views of Mount Everest on the way to your final destination where a sumptuous Champagne breakfast is served. Dining with the panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan range, including Mount Everest of course, surely qualifies as a true once-in-a-lifetime experience.

off the beaten track

Hit the winding roads of the Himalayas in a convoy on Royal Enfield Bullets, classic motorbikes perfectly suited to tackle this spectacular part of Nepal. With the capital, Kathmandu, as your starting point, this bike tour lets you experience some of the best scenery Kathmandu and the surrounding countryside has to offer, all on two wheels. The loop from the capital to Chapagaun (and back again) passes over rolling green hills, through dense jungles, across pretty terraced fields - stopping off to see temples, sacred religious sites and local villages along the way. 

Opportunities abound to contribute to local communities, trek the magnificent Namobuddha monastery and other holy sites in the early morning mist, and enjoy cycle rickshaw rides through the lanes of the Thamel district of Kathmandu, resplendent with its architectural treasures as well as those sold by the many hawkers lining the streets. And for the thrill-seekers, there's white water rafting and going in search of rhino in the Chitwan National Park.

little buddha 

The final night takes us to Bhaktapur on the Eastern edge of the Kathmandu Valley, an ancient city more like an open air museum, for a farewell extravaganza like no other. Joined by a group of masked dancers and village musicians playing local drums and cymbals, groups are led on a walking tour of this historic town accompanied by torch bearers amidst music and fanfare. This troupe passes through the town, intermittently stopping at small squares for a display of masked dances . The procession takes us past the Nyatapola temple with the backdrop of the Nyatapola specially lit with oil lamps for us for the occasion, before arriving in Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Here we sit down to watch villagers perform traditional dances as the feasting begins. Nepal takes you beyond luxury, beyond your comfort zone (in a good way!) and truly off the beaten track. Come experience it with Incent India.

[justtheletterb]

built from scratch for one night only - a true money can’t buy experience

Money can't buy. Once-in-a-liftetime. Wow.

How often do these phrases come up in a client brief? And how often is it truly a one-off experience? Incent India were tasked with that very challenge, and they delivered. Click here for a short video showing the results of their labour, and read on below. 

As if building a campsite with huts and comfortable beds for 150 guests for one night only wasn't enough, the client had a list of non-negotiables which presented their own challenges - three hot meals, hot showers, chilled Champagne in proper glass stems (plastic was banned), source mainly local materials and keep to the realistic cost estimate initially set out. 

Before building could even commence, a tribal village was temporarily relocated to the site. ThIs would ensure the wild elephants would become accustomed to the human presence here and would therefore keep away, along with additional security measures put in place. Finally, a hanging bridge had to be reconstructed as it was the only access point to the site.  

Seven site inspections and seventy days later, a fleet of twenty-five jeeps meandered up from the plains of Tamil Nadu, through the scenic Chinar Wildlife Sanctuary. They reached the finished campsite at the 1,000 m summit, surrounded by sandalwood forest and tea plantations.

A continental lunch with soup, an array of salads and French cheese boards was served on arrival. The group returned from sipping tea at a nearby plantation to find the site transformed for a magical, torch-lit evening feasting on tenderloin with all the trimmings, and of course that chilled Champagne. The troops gathered round the campfire to enjoy an Indian shadow puppet show and a modern take on Kathakali before retiring to their huts.

After hot showers and a hearty breakfast the following morning, it was already time to start dismantling the camp. 

The campsite's life was short-lived, but the impact and the memories created by Incent India will last a lifetime.

[justtheletterb]

break open the barolo

As we welcome Mutika DMC & Events to the b portfolio

Italy holds so many secrets tucked within her rich cultural tapestry and stunning landscapes - whether it's finding THE best wood-fired pizza hidden down a cobbled alley in Naples, or the ancient remains and ruins constantly excavated beneath the streets of Rome. 

But we've discovered one of Italy's best-kept secrets - the dynamic team at Mutika DMC & Events. 

Delivering creative, tailor-made events time and time again, Mutika thrive on bringing you a fresh, modern take on all experiences available in this venerable destination. 

And there are so many experiences to be had, with such variety ranging from north to south and to the islands beyond. Ferraris, food, fashion, fabulous weather and more Unesco heritage sites than anywhere else on the planet, Italy inspires like no other. Art and culture are weaved seamlessly into daily life. The finer things are not only enjoyed, but slowly savoured and revered. Ah, la bella vita. It's all here for the taking, and now brought to you by Mutika and b. 

[justtheletterb]

busy, busy, busy

It's been a busy few months in the world of b. 

We've been exploring far and wide, with our travels taking us to New York's must-visit neighbourhoods, Brooklyn and Harlem with Briggs Inc; down the Zambezi River and over the Victoria Falls in Zambia; feeding elephants up close while keeping our distance from crocodiles; and hanging out with the local Capetonians on First Thursday, sipping crisp Chenin Blanc while taking in the city's vibrant art scene. 

There's also so much happening in our regions with new hotels and experiences everywhere you turn. Read on to see Green Route Africa's five fabulous itineraries to stir your imagination for events in Southern and East Africa. The Knickerbocker rooftop picnics bring a bit of nostalgia to summer dining, and we escape to possibly the most peaceful corner of India.  

[justtheletterb]

five big african itineraries

With so many different combinations available in Southern and East Africa, where does one start?

Green Route Africa have made it easier with a selection of sample itineraries to build from.

* African Odyssey combines Livingstone, Zambia with the Namibian side of the Chobe National Park.

* Bush Meets Sea starts off in the Masai Mara, Kenya and finishes on the beach in the Seychelles.

* Quintessential Africa takes you to Sun City for safari in the Pilanesberg followed by Cape Town.

* Ultimate SA is the classic Kruger Safari and Cape Town combination.

* The Wild Card is a thrilling combination of Cape Town and Swakopmund, Namibia.

I say do them all!

[justtheletterb]

off the beaten track at amanbagh

Meaning 'peaceful garden', Amanbagh is an oasis in the whisper-quiet Aravali hills. Bustling Jaipur is only 90-minutes away and it's 100 km to Jaipur airport, but here, you feel worlds away from anywhere. 

The countryside surrounding Amanbagh reveals the ruins of an ancient empire embedded in a starkly beautiful landscape. The 17th-century township of Bhangarh - abandoned just a generation after its completion - sits nearby, as does the centuries-old village, fort and temple of Ajabgarh, which can be reached by foot or camel from the resort. Sariska National Park, home to tigers, jaguars, sambar deer and more, is a short drive away, as is the temple town of Neelkanth, with more than 80 temples encircled on all sides by mountains.

Back at the resort, each of the 40 Suites and Pavilions has a private courtyard or terrace and a deep soaking bathtub carved from green Udaipur marble. Dine in the elegant pool-side restaurant, or make your way through tall elephant grass and bamboo to Jhilmil Baada, a private outdoor dining platform built on the very location where royal cooks once created feasts from the hunt. This is beyond luxury, and truly off the beaten track. Come experience it with Incent India.

[justtheletterb]

backyard picKNICKs in times square

To celebrate summer, The Knickerbocker has launched PicKNICK on St Cloud. The rooftop has been transformed into a chic, grown-up playground where guests are transported to a stylish summer soirée, at once reminiscent of wistful backyard days and alfresco celebrations. 

Artisanal picnic baskets curated by chef Charlie Palmer are filled with seasonal flavours that pay homage to classic, regional ingredients. The dishes in The American basket are modern twists on traditional summertime favourites. The French basket captures the effortless sophistication of vacationing in the French countryside. And finally, The Mediterranean conjures images of picnicking along a rocky azure coastline. A half-bottle of Ruinart, or specially concocted summer cocktails complete the experience.

[justtheletterb]

beat the chill with Après at The Knick

The Knickerbocker, the luxury hotel enviously nestled between Times Square and Bryant Park, has transformed its indoor Club Room at St Cloud into an Alpine lodge. The cosy respite from the winter freeze transports guests from the cold New York winter to a plush European ski lodge.

Enter through a white birch wood archway, surrounded by pines, into the candle-lit après ski lounge. A roaring fireplace warms the space, and guests can curl up in faux fur throws to get extra snuggly.

Of course, the most important part of an après ski lounge is what's on the menu. The Knick have looked to the mountains for inspiration. Sip on buttered hot apple cider, mulled wine or a craft cocktail made for the season. For sustenance, guests can enjoy alpine cuisine, including Camembert "mountain tops" and German-style sweet pancakes. Swiss-style raclette tables are also available, giving visitors a hands-on culinary treat at our European-style NYC après ski lodge.

Because let's face it, the après-ski is always the best bit. Until the end of March. Full details here.

[justtheletterb]

a new beacon on the V&A waterfront

1st March sees what is definitely the hottest luxury hotel opening in Cape Town this year, and arguably, the most exciting hotel project in the world at the moment.

The Silo Hotel is a magical space towering above the V&A Waterfront surrounded by the natural wonder of South Africa’s Mother City.

Green Route Africa's Kerry Roos speaks to Lia Biden, the owner of the hotel, before they open their doors. 

What was your inspiration in building The Silo Hotel & where have you drawn your influences from in terms of concept and design?

Phil, my husband, and I have always wanted to open a hotel in our home city of Cape Town, but we were waiting for the perfect property and opportunity to arise.  When the grain silo building came along we knew it was the right time to realise our dream and to complete the Royal Portfolio’s circuit of quintessentially South African travel experiences.

When the grain silo complex ceased operations in 2001, the V&A Waterfront, together with Thomas Heatherwick, had a vision to redevelop the building into a museum of contemporary African art with a luxury hotel above. Heatherwick’s inspiration for the building was for it to be an iconic feature of the Cape Town skyline, in the same way as the Sydney Opera House or Eiffel Tower. Heatherwick wanted the reimagined building to look as if it were gently inflated – to be a glowing beacon in the harbour. In terms of the interiors, we have decorated each of the 28 rooms in unique, eclectic ways. I have tried to contrast the stark, industrial exterior of the building with warm colours, vibrant fabrics, exciting ornaments, and contemporary African art.

What stand out moments and experiences can guests expect when staying at The Silo?

The views will undoubtedly be a highlight. The grain silo building was once the tallest building in Sub-Saharan African when it was completed in 1924 and remains the tallest in the V&A Waterfront, offering unique panoramic perspectives from Table Mountain round to Robben Island.

What will set The Silo apart from other luxury properties in Cape Town?

The Silo Hotel is completely unique not just for South Africa but for luxury hotels around the world, combining history, architecture, interior design, and art. It will be the first hotel in the world to be built above a contemporary art museum.  While it will be a hotel unlike any before, the service, character and focus on the guest experience will be of the usual Royal Portfolio standard.

What market segment is your main focus? Will there be scope for MICE business at the hotel?

With just 28 rooms the hotel will certainly be focused on FIT travel. There are however seven room categories including the two bedroomed Family Suites and the Royal Suites. Due to The Silo’s fantastic location, the hotel may be ideal for exclusive use for very special events and occasions. There will be three meeting rooms/private dining rooms including two that seat six and one that seats 22. These will be on the mezzanine level of the sixth floor.

[justtheletterb]

the bash of the year

September always rolls in with a back to school feel in the air. It's a fresh start with summer holidays a distant memory and events steadily ramping up before we reach the next new beginning - a new year. 

The Knickerbocker has always had a reputation for holding a good knees up - both in its current reincarnation and as the original hotel where Rockefeller and F. Scott Fitzgerald used to knock back a martini or two. 

With the famous New Year's Eve ball drop seemingly within reaching distance, there is no better place for the ultimate NYE celebration than at The Knick. 

A night of revelry is in store on the rooftop at St Cloud with a passed dinner by celebrity chef Charlie Palmer, a full premium open bar, live entertainment and of course, the best view of the ball as the countdown begins and the popping of Champagne corks brings in the new year. 

For small groups up to 30 pax, three Sky Pods hanging high above Times Square are available for exclusive use. More details here. It's the ultimate reward. 

"First you take a drink, then the drink takes a drink, then the drink takes you."- F. Scott Fitzgerald

[justtheletterb]

b goes local in search of a good brew

ODS Turkey take us off the typical tourist trail to discover fascinating sides of Istanbul that too many miss out on. 

Once a thriving port, trendy Karaköy is the neighbourhood to watch with the Istanbul Modern museum sparking its renaissance. Hip hotels 10 Karakoy by Morgans and Vault Karakoy soon followed with more set to appear, like the Novotel Karakoy opening this month. 

On the other side of the Golden Horn, nothing beats a traditional spot for proper Turkish coffee and shisha. Corlulu Ali Pasa Medressi, which dates back to 1709, is just the place under the Ottoman-period arches and shaded by trees, watching the locals play backgammon. If you're pressed for time, grab a coffee from historical coffee roaster Kurukahveci Mehmed Efendi outside the Spice Bazaar. 

Next door to the Istanbul's largest hotel - the Hilton Bomondi - Bomontiada has been developed within the eponymous historic brewery offering a mix of culture, art and music - all under one roof. 

Babylon brings live music, and Riva is the place for Anatolian dishes. There are craft beers on offer at gastropub Populist, while art and design aficionados will get their hit at Atolye İstanbul, the local branch of a global community of artists, designers and innovators.