Category: Stylish Holidays

Create A Family Scrapbook…

Posted on by Strathmore House
collection of photos on a bed

Happy New Year to you all!

It’s the dawn of a New Year!

Perhaps your Christmas Tree and it’s needles are now slumped in your garden ready for the next dry weekend to be removed to the tip..?

Maybe you are down to the last crumbs of Christmas Cheese and the chocolates that nobody liked..?

Whatever the post Christmas blues look like; the days are dark and dreary and somehow the air just feels deflated.

FEAR NOT! We have the perfect solution. No. REALLY WE DO!

Thanks to social media, we have memory reminders flashing through our fingers (or thumbs!) throughout the year.  But how about you set yourself a new memory making challenge, ready for the most amazing Family Newsletter ever sent!

Creating a family newsletter can be a fun way to stay in touch with your friends and far-flung family, but also to record moments that could so easily be forgotten.  It’s something you can do as a family, and a way that the magic in the moments that you make throughout the year, can stay for a lifetime, and beyond.

At Strathmore House Apartments, we LOVE being part of peoples memories and so we wanted to help inspire, and perhaps be part of something, that the entire family can roll up their sleeves and be a part of.

Our Challenge/Suggestion!

Keeping a family scrapbook may sound old school; but we figure if Champion and Fila can make a come-back, so too can the good old scrap book surely!

By keeping an active scrapbook that documents memories both big and small, you will have a record of your year that you can keep on a shelf – not just in the clouds!

Photos, maps, receipts, bottle tops, pictures; you name it. It can all go in the scrapbook to cherish. In isolation pretty insignificant, in your family scrapbook  a fantastic time capsule of what your clan’s been up to. Keeping moments alive; but also a great reminder when it comes to writing your family newsletter in the New Year of 2020!

2020 is one heck of a milestone year. The mark of a significant new chapter. How wonderful would it be to have something that boasts about your families whereabouts, adventures and triumphs the year before 2020, the year of 2020 and the year after 2020?

It could be first days at School, College, Uni even. First Car;  First bike (maybe first girlfriend…eek!!).

This amazing book of family wonder will help you keep your memories alive, but also there to share with future generations. Noting what may at the time seem like not much, but in the future will be your family history gems.

An activity for the whole family to help out with; and have fun with; even your pets perhaps!

Make it pretty. Make it fun. Make it all about you!

If the Kardashion’s can – so too can you! Let’s not let January make us grey – let’s put some colour back in our days and start a new, fun, family project!

Make the memories. Share the memories. Keep the memories.  AND if at all possible – let us be part of them too!

Happy 2019 everyone. Here’s to a fabulous year.

Happy scrapbook making. Happy memory making. Happy Holidays!

A GOOD WANDER UNVEILS THE WONDER OF OUR BEAUTIFUL CITY…

Posted on by Strathmore House

Whether you are here on holiday or a living Plymouthian; wandering really does unveil the true wonder of Plymouth…

Living In Plymouth |

Sometimes, when you live in a city your only experience of crossing it is a hectic commute, some frantic shopping in the city centre or drinks on an evening out. We all have a scalextric that we all seem to stick too, and so the scenery around us becomes a little like wallpaper. If this is the case, then we are all missing out!

Visiting Plymouth |

Our Ocean city is divine. The twists and turns; the cobbled streets; the history and culture. What we have as a city is truly breathtaking. A patchwork quilt of marvellous pieces; pieces that together make our city so great.

When you wander around our city, it becomes evident of its richness. Walking through the centre you will experience a platform that to the naked eye looks rather grey; but this city centre represents a deep passion and determination of a community intent on rebuilding their ‘Plymouth’ as quickly as possible after the destruction of WW2.

Around the Hoe and Barbican you have the hidden alley ways, the cobbled streets and a vista like no other. The highest concentration of cobbled streets in England stitch together stories that include Sir Francis Drake, Scott Of The Antarctic and surrounded by beautiful and iconic buildings that date back to the 15th century onwards.

Wandering The City |

Wandering around Plymouth really is the best way to see its wonder.  What’s more, getting lost is sometimes the best way to find what you never knew you were looking for!

Whimsical Wanderings & Moveable Feasts |

Some of us may like a more structured approach than simply getting lost on the cobbles. We may like some insider knowledge, interesting stories or just the company of other like-minded people.

That is where Whimsical Wanderings & Moveable Feasts makes for the perfect choice. There are other walking groups and tours in Plymouth, but what we love about Whimsical Wanderings & Moveable Feasts is that it is a bespoke walking, talking, feasting experience.

An experience that combines our cities culture and creativity; but also gives you a taste of our rich history and the amazing plethora of restaurants we have. This is all beautifully blended with the fabulous company of others. It incorporates not only the city but laughter and frivolity, interspersed with delicious food and drink!

Whether you are a seasoned walker – or simply looking for something new from your holiday; you will share with others (or alone if you’d rather) the perfect urban stroll.

Walking through the city, you will experience more than just a beautiful landscape. You will experience enchantment, tasty treats and memories that will last a lifetime.

 

 

For more information on a Whimsical Wander you can like them on Facebook or check out their website to hear more!

What Do Chefs Really Think About Vegans..?

Posted on by Strathmore House

Here at Strathmore House Apartments we are lucky to be part of a family portfolio of businesses. As well as our apartments, we also have restaurants and a city centre hotel.

This connection opens the door to so much knowledge, as we can tap in to the expertise across all settings.  So, we asked the groups Executive Chef for some insider knowledge, and he was only too happy to help.

We have seen an increase of guests staying with us making good use of our fully equipped kitchens. Looking for a place that they can cater for all their family and friends differing diets and requirements. One guest told us that when staying away for a week:

As a family they only eat out twice; and the other times they enjoy cooking and eating together. Hence why the apartments are the perfect choice.

In the past decade or so, Vegansim has been transformed from a niche diet, to a lifestyle choice. Endorsed not only by many celebrities but also health and well-being practitioners too.

But our question is:

Have Chefs made peace with Veganism and how do they really feel about putting to one side their fine cuts of meat and decadent dishes fussed and flavoured with eggs, butter and cheese?  

We find out!

In a world where freedom and choice is abundant; and with January almost upon us; we talk Veganism and Veganuary with Paul Doidge.

Why do you think there is so much talk of Veganism this time of year – isn’t meat normally the main talking point at Christmas?

“I think it’s because January is fast approaching; for many it is the month of new beginnings,  blank diaries and New Year resolutions. But also, for many…diets!

Last year as a group, we saw a substantial increase in Veganuary, not just on plates but in their wine glasses too. It’s a time to reevaluate our choices and in some cases, make better ones.”

Did you notice an increase in Vegan orders last January?

“Yes, we did but I think the overall numbers speak for themselves. The BBC reported that between 2006 and 2016 the number of Vegans jumped from 150,000 to 542,000. This is a substantial increase and one that no doubt Veganuary has factored in.

In 2018, 78,000 people in Britain took part in Veganuary; with a high proportion making that a continued lifestyle choice thereafter.”

How do Chefs REALLY feel about this shift?

“I think that if you were to ask chefs this question even five years ago, you would get a very different response. Today, I would say that most chefs are more than open to Veganism. In fact, I would go as far as to predict that the majority are not only open, but thrive on creating meals that people can enjoy. Meals that hit all of their guests requirement as well as leave them fully sated. What’s more; we also understand that it can sometimes be healthier than other lifestyle choices AND at times better for the environment.”

Is it harder for  Chefs to have various individual requirements?

“Like anything you have to adapt to, and adopt new ways of working. Through time and experimental development, it’s not about being willing, it’s about enjoying the process of writing new menus, menus that cut out animal products. As Chefs,  it’s always about the guests’ experiences. Making sure everyone is happy is why we do what we do.  Many of us are now working closely with our food and beverage managers too, ensuring that vegan wines are right for pairing with our menu options.”

Is it just Vegans that choose the (V) option?

No. Not in the least. We see more and more people choosing vegan. Our Vegan and Vegetarian menu options are interestingly now choices made by people who do eat meat and who are simply tempted by the menu.

The full flavours and delights that our menus has to offer as a whole gives everyone great options.”

Would you be tempted to become a Vegan?

“Personally, I have a huge amount of love for all food groups, so it wouldn’t be my choice to cut any one thing out of my diet completely. Fish, meat and diary do play a big role in my diet, although there are days when I will choose Vegan or Vegetarian options because that’s what stands out to me on the menu. I love sampling what other chefs do and that includes all menu options.”

Do you think being Vegan is easy?

“I think like anything, when choices are fuelled by passion you will make it work. Looking back, I don’t think it’s ever been easier to be Vegan than it is today, but that is not to say it’s easy. What has changed is towns and cities becoming more accommodating, I think now almost all restaurants no matter how big or small, chain or independent offer options – not all of them stuffed peppers either!

Although like anything, certain places could do better it’s true. But I truly believe it is no longer seen as a ‘fussy’ choice or a ‘hippy’ urge; it is respected and in many cases admired.”

Is it having an impact on ‘bums on seats’?

“That’s a tough one because you can never truly know. Although when it’s busy, there are times we can put it down to some great PR, strong social media activity or a good marketing campaign; but when it’s quiet, other than the obvious, it’s really hard to say exactly why.

What I do understand is that our choices go beyond just one simple decision, they can impact a whole heap of things. Like holidaying being a prime example.  Where they stay, what they do, where they eat will all be factors in that one choice.  I can totally understand why people choose Strathmore House Apartments, not only for their location and quality but also amazing facilities too.”

Last questions! Inside the Kitchen, how tolerant are Chefs really when it comes to Veganism?

“I think ‘tolerant’ is the wrong word. It isn’t our place to judge or have opinions, it is simply our job to delight!”

 

https://www.veganfoodandliving.com/veganuary-2018-the-results-are-in/

De-Stress This Christmas With Adam & Elinor…

Posted on by Strathmore House
lady sat by sign

From mindful meditation to keeping a journal; through to healthy eating and fitness tips.  Two of our staff  share their habits on how they best deal  with ‘life’ stresses during Christmas time…

Here at Strathmore House Apartments, we care about people. Not just their experiences whilst in our beautiful and charming city; but how they actually feel and how they look after themselves, even when they aren’t staying here with us.

We talk to our Development Manager, Elinor Eaton and Club Continental Manager, Adam Domyslawski about the magic of Christmas, but also the strain and stresses we can feel too.

 

Although a magical time, the energy that is needed can sometimes leave us feel a little out of sorts. Elinor tells us how she stays positive at Christmas Time.

“Trying to clear your inbox and finish projects ready for the New Year; planning the perfect Christmas and buying the right gifts; worrying you won’t fit into your Christmas jumper after all the office mince pies..! The list can feel endless! But you’re not alone! These are stresses felt by many of us in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

It can sometimes feel like a bit of a taboo subject! People expect a positive response to ‘how are you?’; the majority don’t really want to know if you are having a little wobble, let alone real life issues. We live in a social climate whereby we are used to seeing happy filters on photos and positive quotes on Facebook; and we have almost conditioned ourselves to feel envious of that ‘pretend’ life – yet unable to deal with the real one of others and our own!

The festive period is meant to be a time for getting together, enjoying each other’s company, exchanging presents and having a good time.  But sadly it can be a time where life becomes really overwhelming. End of year targets have only weeks to be reached. You haven’t got that gift which is ‘ALL’ they wanted. You can’t remember the name of Bryan’s wife next door for the Christmas Card; and you have over committed to festive events and family gatherings!

It may sound like I am trivialising things slightly, but this time of year can honestly be the most stressful – for all manner of reasons – both big and small.

The first thing to say is, it really isn’t just you that might be feeling this way. Be it work, money, home or simply life, we all have our wobbles … and it really is OK.  

I make sure I do certain things to keep my mental well-being in check and keep on top of the nagging voices and moments of sadness or worry. I know Adam is an advocate for exercise, being outdoors and a good diet, but I have always been a huge fan of meditation, keeping a journal and trying to keep a good work/life balance.

Strathmore House Apartments is perfect for this. It’s quiet and private for amazing meditation, and so light and airy. It also encourages you to put your life first, when you step out of the doors and almost straight onto the sea-front, you realise what is – and what isn’t important!

 

My biggest lesson, and one I will always keep pushing  to learn, is to love myself.  Even with the scars, the ones that people can see, but also the ones that people can’t see too. Because eventually those scars will heal and things will get better.

Secondly, I always make more time for being me during the festive period. Choosing getaways like Strathmore House Apartments gives you the perfect platform to reconnect with what matters.

If you haven’t planned a New Year break yet, then grab some amazing deals now and make time for you.

It really is so important that you grab happiness and realise that these wobbles are just part of the journey and Christmas, well Christmas is the perfect time to give yourself the most important gift; happiness above all else.”

It’s clearly important to feed your soul and although our favourite time of year Christmas, in addition to all the usual everyday related stresses, Christmas can bring with it a whole heap of additional challenges and obstacles that we have to smile through and make time for.

Adam Domyslawski from Club Continental shares his tips on how to stay ‘strong’, both physically and mentally this Christmas.

 “An unhealthy diet and a lack of regular exercise and sleep can have really adverse consequences on your well-being; both physically and mentally at any time of the year; but at Christmas we indulge that little bit more, sleep that little bit less and find it hard to find the time for our usual routines. The ingredients to a disaster! ”

 Stress isn’t just a state of mind; it really impacts your physical being too. It can exacerbate nearly every pre-existing condition and can lead to the development or worsening of anxiety, depression and much more, stress really isn’t something to joke about.

 

It’s a real chicken and egg situation though I know! The more you are stressed and the busier you are, the less likely you are to look after yourself. But it’s essential to find the time to think about you and your body this time of year. 

When you get on an aeroplane and they do their safety procedure in case of an emergency; they tell you to put your mask on before assisting anyone else. Hard to do; as your instinct is to help others first – but what help will you be if you haven’t helped yourself first? It’s the same principle with health and fitness – if you aren’t healthy and fit both physically and mentally – no one will have a good Christmas and your work load for next year will simply increase.

The key is to remember that it is essential that you find enough time in the day for you. Plan your meals so that you don’t panic and hunger buy; but instead you have it with you and ready when you are. Also, take the time to think through a little fitness throughout your week.  It can be parking a little further from the office or shops; taking the stairs or simply making the time for you to work-out. It’s really essential that you find a way. Even if during this crazy we weeks it’s less than normal – a little can go a long way!”

Club Continental is free for Strathmore House Apartments guests. It’s an amazing resource just a short stroll from the apartments.

Magical Memories & Festive Fun…

Posted on by Strathmore House
iphone taking a picture of a christmas tree

The Lights and Nights of Christmas…

With our city awash with beautiful sparkling Christmas lights, both in the city centre and on the beautiful Plymouth Barbican; there really is something magical about Christmas; no matter how old you are!

With only weeks away to the big day itself;  the magic never seems to fade; even with the stress of finding the right gifts; making enough time for family and friends and emptying the inbox before the out of office goes on!

We all know that the stress, well it’s always worth it in the end!

We know that finding the right base at Christmas is no mean feat; being away at this time of year you require a little different touch to any other time. Space and privacy are top – but also location to maximise the time you have for visiting friends and family (or shopping!)

There are so many amazing, unique and quirky places to call home in Plymouth and that makes us even more honoured that so many people have chosen us.

We are overjoyed that we have the opportunity to welcome everyone to Plymouth this Christmas. All with differing reasons for their visit. We have one couple coming down to welcome their first grandchild, due on the 25th December! Another family coming for their first time away from home at Christmas. Then a mother and daughter coming to spend the Christmas and New Year in their home-town after 17 years of living away.

Christmas brings many wonders and so much excitement, and so to be part of the Christmas celebrations, festive fun and magical memories is totally heartening.

We love this time year. And Christmas at Starthmore House Apartments really does make perfect sense and the most amazing place to make your home from home at Christmas time.

What’s more, with our location, there’s nothing quite like a winter walk on the waterfront, or a wander around the Christmas market to get you in the festive mood…or perhaps just to walk off some of those pre-Christmas calories!

Plymouth is by far one of the best cities to enjoy Christmas and we are truly thrilled to be having the opportunity to be part of so many wonderful Christmas memories.

From All Of Us; We Wish You The Merriest Of Christmases And A Super 2019.

Plymouth At Christmas -2018

Posted on by Strathmore House
two elves sat on a wall with strathmore house logo

A MERRY Christmas In Plymouth; locations, times and everything you need to know…

When does Christmas start in Plymouth? When are the Christmas Markets? Where are the Christmas Markets?  How do we get there?

All of your questions answered…

Christmas In Plymouth…

Plymouth has officially started the countdown to the festive season; and here at Strathmore House Apartments we can’t bloomin’ wait!!

Filling the city with over 50 traditional wooden huts, the scent of mulled wine and swarms of shoppers, the attraction is back from 29 November to December 16.

We don’t only have one set of lights turned on in Plymouth. Oh No! We have two! 

The Christmas Lights Switch On…

The city centre Christmas lights will be twinkling above it all after the official switch-on, which takes place on Thursday  November 15. 

The lights also mark the start of Plymouth’s notorious late-night shopping! The fun starts in the city centre Piazza from 4pm with a host of entertainment for the whole family. Then the streets are lit up at 6.30pm by Father Christmas himself!

The Barbican’s Christmas Lights Switch On…

Just a short stroll past Smeatons Tower, along the sea-front and over the cobbles you will find all of the festive celebrations on the Waterfront.

The Barbican’s Christmas Lights Switch On will be taking place on Sunday 25 November between 3pm and 6pm. Join the festive cheer on Southside Street to meet the Grinch from 4pm, then greet Santa arriving aboard the RNLI at Capn’ Jaspers at 4.45pm followed by the official lights switch on at 5pm.

So. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back for more, Visit Plymouth have rounded up everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.

 

 

How To Visit Plymouth On A Budget…

Posted on by Strathmore House
map, camera and passport holiday planning

How To Save Money In A City FULL of FUN..!

Is it possible to holiday on a budget in 2019..? YES!

We know we have something special at Strathmore House Apartments. First of all our location is perfect to have every aspect of Plymouths greatness on your doorstep.

Our apartments offer space, privacy and style. Our city offers a vista like no other; a history oh so inspiring and most noteworthy perhaps of all, people who are proud of their city.

Therefore, who wouldn’t want to come for a few days to chill out in chic apartment living, in a city with so much to offer? Perhaps the reason may be budget..?

Well, for the first time ever we have launched our January sale in NOVEMBER!

Meaning if you are looking for a a break between 1st January 2019 and the 28th February 2019, you are guaranteed our lowest prices EVER!

 

Enter Easter With Ease…

Posted on by Strathmore House
easter break plymouth

There are times when an Easter break away is the exact indulgence (reward!) we all need this time of year…

We have stepped dramatically and excitedly into 2018; we have handled the January blues with style and grace; we have got the children back into the school rhythm without too much of a fight, we have fought our way through the sales and purchased more nonsense that we care to admit to; our diet lasted precisely 48 hours (and we no longer use the smoothy maker!); there was absolutely nothing dry about January – but that’s ok, we are hydrated; our diary and notepad (the ones we vowed to use only one pen to write with, committing to use only our best ever writing)  now looks like a GPs scribble pad …

…but everyone, it’s ok!

It’s ok because Easter is just around the corner and that is perhaps the best pat on the back for our achievements to date!

At Strathmore House Apartments we have one, two, three and four bedroom apartments that you can use as your luxury base whilst visiting Plymouth this Easter.

For a Family Break: Make the most of the space and location for a holiday away with the family. With so much to see and do in and around Plymouth, your little ones will come back to the apartment full of sea air and sleepy eyes – then you still are able to enjoy a cosy night in with a great film and bubble bath!

For a Romantic Retreat: Perhaps this year you and your love want to escape your day to day life and make the most of the Bank Holiday weekend; enjoy the night life, cocktails and food on offer in Britain’s Beautiful Ocean City – then perhaps walk it off with a coffee along the promenade and a spot of shopping.

Whatever your need this Easter, at Strathmore House Apartments we offer everything you might need to soak up the sights and really enjoy the richness on offer in Plymouth.

With amber, yellow and red weather warnings over recent weeks, what can we expect this Easter? Well, perhaps not sunhats and sun cream! Forecaster AccuWeather is predicting double digits for the Bank holiday weekend of 10-11C and with great central heating you can be sure that your wrapped up days will be followed by snugly nights and the most wonderful of memories.