Lorraine Finn

Travel

Travel Agent Central •

Live Like a Local: Barcelona

Among its other strong touristic attributes, Barcelona is rich in architectural and culinary treasures. Not only do Millennials rank these aspects among their top 10 desirable vacation features, according to MMGY Global’s 2016 Portrait of American Travelers, they also value them significantly more than their older counterparts. Better than one in four Millennials who are interested in visiting European cities during the next two years have this metropolitan gem on their radar.
Luxury Travel Advisor •

24 hours in Galway

THE LONG WALK describes the colorful riverside footpath that provides views of the stony shore across the way.

Start the day off like a local with a cup of tea at Cupán Tae at 8 Quay Lane. It’s easy to miss this charming little tea house, decorated in the style of a quaint countryside living room. Recommended is the before-noon tea, an early morning spin on the traditional afternoon tea. Diners will be treated to a tiered cake stand loaded with granola and yoghurt, fresh fruit, baked scones smo
Luxury Travel Advisor •

Inside the Manor House --El Palauet Living, Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that combines history and art, and those in the know seeking a refuge head to El Palauet Living, located in the city’s designer Passeig De Gracia. We’re just back from this former manor house, which is in the same neighborhood as some of Antoni Gaudi’s most impressive architectural works. Nestled in between the trendy Gracia and the busy Plaça de Catalunya, the property is a central base for exploring the Catalan capital. Dating over 100 years, the building used to house the
Luxury Travel Advisor •

Ashford Castle, Ireland

We’re just back from Ireland where the nearly 790-year-old Ashford Castle has reopened after a two-year restoration project. Here’s our review.

Set against a backdrop of woodlands and lakes, Ashford Castle, formerly owned by the Guinness family, has been restored to its former glory. Overseen by Red Carnation Hotel’s founder and president, Beatrice Tollman, and architect Philippe Bonino, the work has retained the resort’s classical and historical elements which give Ashford Castle its charm, bu
More Than Food Magazine •

Homage to Catalonia: An Interview with Chef David Romero

The Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona celebrates 100 years of history (1918-2018), and what better way to celebrate than with the inauguration of the new Restaurante SOLC. Influenced by Michelin Star Chef, Nandu Jubany, it’s Executive Chef David Romero however, who takes centre stage. We meet with the mastermind behind it all.

Stepping into the glowing foyer of the Majestic Hotel is an experience in itself, with towering white pillar columns, vintage chandeliers and soft golden lighting framing ev
Upscale Living Magazine •

Barcelona's Fairmont Hotel

Summer in Barcelona not only brings sunny days and long lazy evenings but also attracts the crowds in their swarms. However, don’t let this deter you from the Catalan capital, with its al fresco tapas, cosy vermuterias and charming streets. Our piece of advice: head for the hills, literally.

Tucked in between Camp Nou (the Barcelona F.C. stadium) and the sleek shops of Avinguda Diagonal, lies the city’s only urban resort, the Fairmont Juan Reyes Carlos. Think sweeping sea views and a central lo
Luxury Travel Advisor •

New Experiences at the Centurial Majestic Hotel & Spa, Barcelona

With nearly 100 years of history behind its doors and a peak location at the top of the tree-lined Passeig de Gràcia, it’s easy to see why those Barcelona-bound seek refuge at The Majestic Hotel & Spa. We’re just back from the Catalan capital and a jaunt at this Barcelona landmark, which has seen the likes of Picasso, Hemingway and Joan Miró grace its halls. With a host of fresh menus and experiences, and an upcoming centennial anniversary, there’s plenty of new additions to check out at the Maj
Luxury Travel Advisor •

Bridal Spa Takeovers

CAMEL VALLEY RANCH’S infinity pool cabanas allow the bride and groom to indulge in some private poolside lounging.

Brides-to-be and their wedding parties can seek some pre-ceremony refuge with a private spa takeover. From bachelorette parties to groups seeking some post-nuptial R&R, spas across the board are rolling out the red-carpet treatment to help them unwind, including customizable services served up alongside bottles of bubbly and savory bites.

Carmel Valley Ranch in the Monterey region
Luxury Travel Advisor •

Wine and Wellness

An outdoor massage at Silverado Resort and Spa. Being situated in prime wine country, the spa uses local ingredients and wine.

Fall is a popular time for Sonoma and Napa Valley, with oenophiles and budding wine enthusiasts alike congregating in late August to late October/early November for one of wine country’s most important events: the crush. Those serious about viticulture can gather to witness the process of picking, tasting and pressing, before fermentation begins. With most of the work o
The Spanish Break Blog •

10 Reasons Barcelona Is the Best Stag/Hen Do Destination For You

So you’ve been put to the task of organising your mate’s stag or hen do – congratulations! Now, you’re probably looking for the best the stag/hen do destination.

Well, let us save you a bit of time because there’s no other city like Barcelona, which checks every box! The city is bursting with things to do and see – all after a quick siesta of course! Here are our top 10 reasons that Barcelona is the best stag/hen do destination.

Given that you’re checking out this post, you’re already on the r
ShBarcelona •

Barcelona and its many names

Barcelona is one the most frequented cities in the world, yet where does its distinctive name come from? The Catalan capital´s title has historically undergone many changes. However, its origins remain unclear with many theories and myths surrounding its source.

The first of many legends states that the name Barcelona is an adaption of the original name, Barke-no¸ which was given to the city by Iberian settlers. This is supposedly attested in an ancient coin inscription from the Iberian times.
ShBarcelona •

Where to Drink Like a Local in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city known for its vibrant nightlife and is chock full of great bars. However, as a major tourist destination most visitors tend to stick with the masses, not venturing much further than the hectic and often overpriced La Rambla. Here, we round up some of the best watering holes favored by locals that will make you feel like a real Catalonian.

Can Paixano, or La Xampanyeria as its known by the locals, is an authentic Barcelona institution and not easy to find. Keep your ears open
ShBarcelona •

How to find the perfect flat in Barcelona

Whether you are considering making the move to Barcelona for the first time or you just need a change of scene, finding a flat can seem like a daunting task. Here we´ve gathered some basic tips to help ease your search and to make sure you get the best value for your money.

First of all, you have to decide what neighborhood to live in. From the bohemian El Raval to the trendy El Born, each barrio has its own personality.

Decide what’s important to you, whether it’s being near the beach (Barce