Discover : Our travel guides
Palm Springs, CA - A desert oasis
Palm Springs is a pretty unique place, a must-visit for fans of mid-century design, desert vibes and great food. A visit to nearby Joshua Tree National Park is one for the bucket list. Worth the 2 hour detour from LA for those seeking a more chilled vibe.
The Ace Hotel & Swim Club
We at Places & Spaces Art Co. HQ were thrilled to learn that UK to USA travel is back on the agenda! We often talk about how our travels to America inspired our art prints business and we cannot wait to return. Now seems like a good time to revisit one of our favourite US destinations; Palm Springs.
Stunning mid-century homes are commonplace in Palm Springs.
Find these dazzling homes in E. Sierra Way
The Ace Hotel & Swim Club
This Californian city is an oasis in the Sonoran desert, best known for it’s hot springs, mountain views, stylish hotels and mid-century architecture. It’s also a scenic 1 hour drive to the spectacular Joshua Tree National Park. During our second California road trip, we spent three nights at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club in downtown Palm Springs; a stunning homage to mid-century style, with glorious suites, a fantastic pool (with plenty of sun loungers) and spa.
Welcome!
Awaiting refreshments after the 2 hr drive from LA.
We found October to be a very good time to visit Palm Springs. The heat is not as intense as the summer months, and although a very hot 30c in peak afternoon heat, the evenings have rather cool temperatures. We had some problems with our booking; on our first night our standard double room was next door to another couple with a very young baby, whom they were having a lot of trouble getting to sleep. We felt for them, but needed some sleep! So on that first night, we requested a room transfer which the management were more than happy to oblige with. It was late and the room seemed fine, bigger than the original even, so we dumped our bags and crashed. The next morning we were awoken by the sweet sound of construction works. A look out of the window showed that we were facing a building site, which was also far from ideal. A quick word with the management led to us being upgraded to the Ace Suite - a huge room with a double bathroom (dual sinks!) and outdoor patio. This was a huge upgrade, so fair play to them.
*Tip: This hotel is rather busy at weekends, with regular DJs and live music events drawing in a party crowd. If you are able to visit midweek, you’ll get much cheaper rates and a better choice of rooms.
The Ace Suite.
Poolside.
Onsite is the Kings Highway Roadside Diner - a true slice of Americana. The food is typical Californian; great burgers, tacos, every type of eggs, pancakes along with healthier lighter bites and the stylish decor is just like the diners you see in the movies. The poolside menu comes from the same kitchen.
Kings Highway Diner @ The Ace Hotel
Pancakes with maple syrup, fruit (and ice cream!?)
A more refined roadside diner.
Delicious Fried Chicken Burger (when in Rome…)
Joshua Tree National Park
During our limited time in Palm Springs, one day trip we were certain of making was to Joshua Tree National Park. From afar, this desert has seemed like a mythical land - another world from the grey, urban environment of London.
The familiar sight of wind farms en route to Joshua Tree NP.
By the entrance to the park.
A relatively short (less than an hour), scenic drive through desert highways from Palm Springs, Joshua Tree NP is a spectacular landscape of mountains, desert and iconic Joshua Trees. The park has defined roads and pathways to enable visitors to get around the various points of interest. Although very sunny and warm in the sun, temperature was surprisingly cool, making us feel a tad under-dressed.
The geology in the park is incredible.
Did you know… There isn’t just one Joshua Tree - there are thousands!
You can pickup a map from the visitor centre to help you find your way around the points of interest in the park, but the most spectacular is surely Keys View. When you make your way to the top of the trail you are greeted with breathtaking views of Coachella Valley - an unforgettable moment.
Parking at Keys View.
Stunning views of Coachella Valley from Keys View.
We could have spent longer than the couple of hours we did at Joshua Tree however, we had a dinner reservation that evening at the highly recommended Rooster and the Pig in downtown Palm Springs.
Waiting line cropped out of shot!
A tasty Vietnamese style salad
This Vietnamese-American fusion restaurant has just the right amount of options on the menu, with most plates designed to be shared. The food is delicious and the ambience is carefully balanced between hip cantina and family restaurant. The drinks menu has a nice selection of cocktails, imported/local beer and a variety of teas. When you’re staying in a great hotel, it’s tempting to hunker down for the duration, but it is definitely worth venturing out for a bite to eat and a drink in town.
House Hunting
A trip to Palm Springs is not complete without exploring the neighbourhoods. The quiet palm tree-lined streets with beautiful mid-century homes aplenty. Head to E.Sierra Way (a few minutes drive) and be prepared for serious house envy!
Cabazon
Our last night (Friday) at the Ace Hotel was pretty lively, with live bands and DJs performing, drawing in a party crowd of non-guests who are able to use the hotel facilities for a resort fee. Observing a young American party crowd was quite the experience, although with a long drive to the coast scheduled for the next day, we decided to call it a night and let them get on with it. We set off for our next stop; Santa Barbara, but not before passing through Cabazon where dinosaurs roam - one for kids of all ages!
Palm Springs is a pretty unique place, a must-visit for fans of mid-century design, desert vibes and Joshua Tree NP is one for the bucket list. Worth the 2 hour detour from LA for those seeking a more chilled vibe. Read destination guide on Santa Barbara here.
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City Break in Copenhagen
Back on the Green List, Copenhagen is a wonderful city break destination for foodies and lovers of European culture. A relatively short distance for UK travellers, our ‘Discover : Copenhagen’ destination guide explores the Danish food scene, cool shops and places of interest.
Torvehallerne Market, Copenhagen
With the news that Denmark is now on the ‘Green List’ of destinations for UK based travellers (as of August 2021), it seems like the ideal time to talk about Copenhagen. It was one of the last overseas trips we made prior to having our son and despite it being freezing cold (it was early March), we loved our stay here. Flights from Gatwick get you to Copenhagen in a little under two hours, and a train for the airport to the city centre is as straightforward as it gets.
Hotel
The lobby at Hotel SP34.
We stayed at Hotel SP34, a stylish accommodation based in the Latin Quarter. It has a lovely bar/lounge area, dripping with Hygge vibes and although the rooms are on the small side, it is in a marvellous location.
Food scene
A short walk away is the Torvehallerne Food Market; a buzzy indoor food hall which houses some of Copenhagen’s best local culinary creatives. A great option for breakfast or lunch on the go.
Torvehallerne Food Market.
Palaeo; delicious healthy food.
For our first evening meal we booked a table at the award winning, über trendy Høst. Innovative Scandinavian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients cooked and plated with creative elegance. The evening set menu is full of surprises and requires an open mind, whilst the overall experience is a real taste of modern Danish dining. We’d advise booking a table in advance of your trip to avoid missing out!
Scallops at Høst, complete with scandi foliage!
For something a bit less ‘out there’, but equally as groovy, head to Kodbyens Fiskebar for delicious seafood and cocktails, in the old meat packing district. The fish and chips are a delight!
Kodbyens Fiskebar, Meatpacking District
Fish & Chips!
Explore
A trip to Copenhagen is not complete without exploring Nyhavn, with its fishing canal and iconic colourful buildings. Definitely fertile ground for #content! The bars and restaurants are a bit touristy here, although there is a fabulous street food market nearby, with a wide range of cuisines. Grab a bite and sit by the docks for wonderful views of the water.
Nyhavn.
We discovered a real treasure trove nearby; Posterland has an incredible selection of art prints by famous and independent artists from all over the world. Did we acquire a print of Miami to take home with us? I can confirm that yes, yes we did…
Posterland, Copenhagen
‘Girl in Miami’ came home with us!
Strøget
Strolling around Nørrebro
Hay House
View from Dronning Louises Bro (Queen’s Bridge)
All things considered, Copenhagen is a delightful, charming, stylish city which is easy to get around and has a fabulous food scene. Surrounded by water, it can get very, very cold in the winter months, but wrapping up warm and strolling around can be very romantic. Ideal for a weekend getaway.
SHOP THE PRINT
Family getaway to Pollensa, Mallorca
Pollensa is a fabulous destination for holidaymakers and families in search of a more serene, authentic experience of Mallorca. The old town and the port have plenty to enjoy, with stunning mountain scenery, pretty streets and sandy beaches.
Puerto de Pollensa
If you’re planning on a late summer getaway to Mallorca with a young family, you cannot beat Pollensa. Situated in the quieter Northern tip of the island, away from the package holidays and high-rise hotels of the southern towns, Pollensa is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. The old town is full of attractive narrow streets and has an impressive main plaza lined-with cafes, restaurants and bars.
A few kilometres away is Port de Pollensa with has some lovely beaches and a great selection of beachfront and harbourside restaurants and bars. The region is famous for its’ mountainous landscape, popular with cycling enthusiasts who flock here for the incredible cycling routes. Each time we have visited Pollensa we have stayed in both by the beach and close to the Old Town. Both are lovely and have their merits, which we will cover below.
The Old Town:
Pollensa Old Town
The old town is a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets and locally-run cafes and shops. Find your way to the impressive Plaça Mayor (main square) which is surrounded by a plenty of restaurants and cafes, perfect for a spot of breakfast, lunch, tapas or an evening meal. As the night falls, the square becomes quite busy with young children playing, whilst their parents enjoy a sundowner. The Old Town is lovely for an evening stroll to work off that paella and share an ice cream. Just off the square are the famous Calvari steps; climbing to the top is challenging but certainly worth the effort. You will be rewarded with spectacular views of Pollensa and there is a charming little cafe at the top of the steps for much needed refreshments.
The old town
The Calvari steps
365 steps later…
Plaça Mayor
During our first visit we stayed with family, renting a large, rustic villa on road Ma-2202. There a many rental villas and apartments in the neighbouring roads of the old town. Ours was a 5 minute drive to the old town and although close enough to walk, the surrounding roads are not exactly pedestrian-friendly. Not ideal for young children or a buggy!
Port de Pollensa
Sunset over Port de Pollensa
Port de Pollensa, is a straightforward 20 minute drive north from the busier tourist town of Alcudia. It has a fantastic stretch of sandy beach with small playgrounds at either end, toilet facilities and cafe’s. Even in the height of summer, we found there was plenty of available sun loungers (rentals) and space. There are number of restaurants and convenience stores along the seafront, plenty of which offer takeaway services, if you don’t want to give up your spot on the beach! Our favourite restaurant by the beach is Swing; a family-run restaurant with friendly staff, plenty of outdoor seating (including high chairs) and a fantastic menu of tapas, fresh seafood and of course, paella. There are no ugly high-rise hotels here, but plenty of discreet holiday rental apartment buildings, ideally situated for families.
The beach at Port de Pollensa
Paella Marinera @ Swing
When you reach the north end of the beach, you’ll find the marina with luxury yachts and sail boats bobbing on the sea. The pedestrianised waterfront is lined with cafes and restaurants to cater for all tastes. Most have plenty of outdoor seating where sea views can be enjoyed. Our favourite breakfast spot is Cappuccino Grand Cafe, an upscale, bistro vibe adjoined to Hotel Sis Pins. Grab a table on the terrace and enjoy the sea views, while sampling the extensive menu. Good quality pastries, sandwiches, some healthy options and every type of eggs you can hope for. Their Eggs Benedict is the stuff of dreams.
Port de Pollensa
Cappuccino Grand Cafe
Overall, Pollensa is a lovely part of Mallorca for holidaymakers of all ages and particularly ideal for families with young children looking for a more serene experience. We preferred staying close to the beach, for its’ amenities but the old town also has so much to offer, with a bit more of an authentic feel. It’s easy to see why people return here year after year, and we hope to visit again soon.
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UK Family Holiday in Poole, Dorset
Since having a child of our own, we have begun to explore more places in the UK and recently discovered Poole in Dorset. It quickly became our favourite coastal town, due to its vast sandy beaches, stunning harbour and charming neighbourhoods.
Sandbanks, Poole.
Now that the school summer holidays have begun, many families will be planning to take a much needed break. UK destinations are becoming increasingly popular, especially with all the restrictions and uncertainty surrounding overseas travel.
Since having a child of our own, we have begun to explore more places in the UK and recently discovered Poole in Dorset. It quickly became our favourite coastal town, due to its vast sandy beaches, stunning harbour and charming neighbourhoods. It being a relatively straightforward, two hour drive or train journey from London is a huge bonus.
Where to stay:
Westbourne Shopping Arcade
View of Alum Chine Beach
Just west of Bournemouth, away from the day-trippers, arcades and funfair rides are several neighbourhoods which have plenty of AirBnbs and guest houses, ideal for young families. Westbourne is a charming neighbourhood with a lovely shopping arcade and a great selection of independent shops, bars, cafes and restaurants. Including the famous Chez Fred which serves deliciously fresh fish and chips. Just a 20 minute walk south of here is Alum Chine beach, which has an adventure playground, car park, toilet facilities and an Italian restaurant, great for takeaway pizzas. We stayed in an a lovely AirBnb 5 minutes from the beach, where the local streets are mostly quiet, residential roads.
Beach huts at Branksome Chine
A westerly ten minute stroll along the promenade brings you to Branksome Chine beach. This is probably our favourite spot of the coastline, lined with attractive beach hut rentals, beautiful cliffs and generally less busy than Bournemouth and Alum Chine. All along the coastline, the water is clean and has a shallow tide - great for small children!
Branksome Chine Beach
Sandbanks Beach
Further west are the affluent neighbourhoods of Canford Cliffs and Sandbanks which joins the spectacular Poole harbour. Naturally, accommodation close to the beaches are more pricey however, if you are are prepared to stay a 5-10 minute drive north from these beaches, there are some divine neighbourhoods which surround the East side of Poole Harbour:
View of Poole Harbour, from Evening Hill
Lilliput is a quiet, affluent residential neighbourhood full of impressive modern bungalow conversions. Grab a coffee and a pastry from the superb Patisserie Mark Bennett on Sandbanks Road and stroll down to Evening Hill, where you can enjoy incredible sunset views across Poole Harbour.
Whitecliff Harbourside park. Suitable for children of all ages!
View of Poole Harbour at Whitecliff Harbourside Park
A 15 minute walk up Sandbanks Road, North of Lilliput, is the equally charming neighbourhood of Whitecliff which has a lovely harbourside park, with its pleasant playground and great views of the water. We didn’t realise it was possible to feel calm at a playground, but the sea air certainly aids this.
On the opposite side of Sandbanks Road is the very cool Coast. Surf + Moto which serves great coffee, brunch, pizza and cocktails on it’s terrace. This place really captures the feel of coastal living, with Olero surfboards hanging from the ceilings and gift shop full of interesting lifestyle books, independent clothing brands and surf and biking accessories.
Just a ten minute walk from Whitecliff is the buzzy Ashley Cross neighbourhood. A great selection of independent cafes, bars and restaurants flank the three sides of the village green, which is perfect for a little picnic on a sunny day.
Ashley Cross Green
Explore further:
For longer stays, there are so many more things to do for families including catching a ferry from Sandbanks to the natural beauty of Studland Bay and further exploration along the world heritage site Jurassic Coast.
There is so much to do in this part of the South Coast, it is ideal for coastal mini-breaks or longer holidays. For explorers of all ages!