Hi my name is Ria and I’m a mum to two chocoholic, ice-cream addicts who wake up at approximately 6-6:30am every morning and cannot sit still for more than 5 seconds. Is anyone else grateful for the term starting?! I personally cannot wait, as much as we have had such a fun filled Summer – we are all ready for the kids to go back for some structure and routine.
We had the best holiday at IKOS Andalusia. I was a little apprehensive as the all-inclusive life is not for me, but I was pleasantly surprised. The IKOS and Sani group prides itself on being a luxury 5 star all inclusive resort with ultra-cool Mediterranean style, and it certainly was that. The children had 3 hours of kids club every morning which meant that my husband and I could relax by the adults only pool every morning. The adults only pool is located next to the spa (handy), amongst a row of lavender giving off a wonderfully relaxing scent. I was able to read my book in peace whilst sipping on my iced freddo cappuccino in our private cabana… until 1 ‘o clock where we were back to ordering chicken nuggets and chips with the sound of screaming children in the background. The food was delicious in all of the restaurants and the service was second to none. You know it’s good when you don’t have to look for someone to order a drink, they are just there!
Being holiday ready is so important to me. It gives me confidence and ensures that I can spend minimal time getting ready when I am at my destination. I’m all about the effortless look these days (although this still take a lot of effort). Apart from hair, nails and fake tan, the biggest difference for me is getting my eyebrows done. I have been to many places in Surrey and by the far the best is Lucy Mia in Reigate. She creates the perfect shape which is natural, fluffy and filled. I look back at the old me and cringe remembering how I used to over-zealously pluck my brows. Thank goodness for my Greek genes which enabled my hairs to grow back. Before a holiday I usually see Lucy for a lash lift (LVL) which means I don’t wear any mascara during the day, and a brow shape, tint and lamination which gives me the perfect fluffy, sculpted brows.
I wanted to share with you a couple of hidden gems that I visited during the holidays and I will continue to visit throughout the year (weather permitting). Firstly, The Pilots Hub where you dine whilst watching aircrafts to offer a complete aviation experience. The Hub is part of a large aviation company that operates on Redhill aerodrome. I came here with some friends during lockdown when we could only dine outdoors and thought it was genius for both children and adults. Not only does it provide fantastic entertainment, but the food is great. My favourite is to go for brunch and order the avocado on sourdough which is topped with chilli oil, roasted vine tomatoes and sour cream.
Seasons Surrey is another hidden gem. It’s situated in Lavershot Barns which is a luxury home, lifestyle, garden, dining and retail estate in Windlesham. They have an aquatics shop, a Lakeland, Surrey Hills Butchers and Afters frozen yoghurt to name a few. Seasons has two dining options including the Kitchen, which serves seasonal and modern food, and Street Food, which is outdoors and more of a laid-back atmosphere serving delicious Asian inspired street food and craft cocktails. I ate at Street Food as it was a gloriously sunny day. The food was utterly scrumptious, the halloumi fries were totally addictive and cooked to perfection. The atmosphere was buzzing it almost felt like I was back on holiday! On the way out I couldn’t help but to check out the Farm Shop where I picked up some delectable burrata and truffle filled tortellini. Watch out for fun filled family events that will be held at Lavershot Barns – including some upcoming Halloween fun! Seasons Surrey is definitely one way to banish those end of Summer blues and I cannot wait to come back.
