romance issue
DESCRIPTION
the romance issue of beach tomatoTRANSCRIPT
1
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
2
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
February, the month of love. Or so they say. My opinion is that February has nothing else going for it (cold, damp, dark, hey it is even supposed to snow in London this week), so something nice has to happen in to cheer us all up. Well, always ones for cheering up at Beach Tomato, this issue is dedicated purely to the world of romance. Cynics, don’t be put off, we are not talking lovey dovey, hallmark romance, but intrepid, lets-visit-a-beach romance (seriously, what did you expect?).
Before I divulge the treats in store for you, let me tell you about a few changes here at Beach Tomato. Don’t panic, we aren’t going off radar, just mixing it up a little. Instead of our beach-filled issues hitting you every other Tuesday, we are going a little more daily. Dictated by fortnightly themes (hence romance this fortnight), each and every day you can get a little chunk of beach right at your desk/wherever your computer may be. So, tune in daily for some escapism, we ensure you shall never be bored. Missed the fortnight? Luckily for you we are popping all our issues content in a flip mag at the end of the week so that you never miss an issue again (we know how upsetting this can be).
First up this fortnight is a guide to the best honeymoon destinations in the world. This was no
mean feat. With a world full of idyllic and exotic locations (not to mention we know that travel is all about different courses for horses), there was much deliberation around this. But, this is a starting place to inspire you and, what’s better, is they are some of the best places to visit in the world whether you are honeymooning or not.
Ensure you come back over the fortnight for regulars such as Beach of the Week, The Beach House and Insiders’ Beach Love as well exciting exclusives such as our fashion shoot with Leah Weller that was shot by Iain McKell. Our 5 best ways to prepare yourself to look picture perfect and utterly irresistible on the beach (we have some serious beauty tricks for perfect tousled hair and flawless skin up our sleeve). If you are off on that holiday with your new other half (or are simply looking to pick up), we have the ultimate guide to beachwear that will help you impress him/her. Yes boys, your board shorts from 7 years ago need an upgrade before you ask.
We hope that you all have wonderful fortnights and whether you are true romantics or utter cynics find some beach love in this issue.
Lots of love,
3
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
4 :: HONEYMOON HOTSPOTS 13 :: BEACH LOVE 15 :: COMING UP ROSES
16 :: THE BEACH HOUSE 20 :: PREP SQUAD 26 :: THE GLASS MENAGERIE
36 :: DRESS TO IMPRESS 40 :: PRINCESS LEAH << CLICK TO SHOP THE ISSUE >>
4
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
Deciding where to go on honeymoon is the first
incredibly serious subject posed upon plunging
into married life… Thankfully, we’ve thought
long and hard on your behalf and come up with
some of the most idyllic honeymoons we could
muster to make sure you’re fist steps as Mr and
Mrs are filled with nothing but martial bliss.
From from an exotic break in Kerala, India and
secluded stretches of untouched sand upon
private islands to spiritual retreats and world
class spas, we’ve got options enough to please
the most demanding of newly-wedded couples.
HONEYMOONHOTSPOTS
5
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
EMBUDHUFUSHI AND OLHUVELI ISLANDS, MALDIVES
WHY: Images of shallow lagoon waters, colourful
tropical fish, over-water villas and countless
beaches of fine white sand spring to mind when
we picture the Maldives. Resorts in these waters
know how to treat loved-up couples and will go all-
out to make you’re your honeymoon is everything
you dreamed of.
WHEN: Between December and early April, when
even the occasional shower is a rare occurrence.
But the Maldives are generally thought of as
having year-round sunshine.
WHERE TO STAY: As we write, the hardworking folk
at Niyama are adding the finishing touches to their
brand new resort, due to open in March. With a 24-
hour spa offering up some of the most indulgent
treatments imaginable, Niyama understands the
need for a spot of pampering at any time of the day
or night. Plan scuba trips that will blow your mind,
laze all day in the sun, then dine on the freshest
seafood in the resort’s floating restaurant.
6
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
KERALA, INDIA
WHY: Palm-fringed beaches and serene
backwaters that wind their way through sleepy
towns and deserted woodlands, as the sights,
sounds and flavours of India come together in
a heady romantic fusion that will have you both
sighing into your bahjees.
WHEN: This region sees a fair amount of rain so do
check your timings carefully. For a dose of well-
deserved sun, visit between March and June.
WHERE TO STAY: Surrounded by coconut groves
and golden sands, Neeleshwar Cottages provide
the perfect setting for a holistic honeymoon.
Choose your room according to a variety of
different emotions – from Prema (love), to
Sukha (happiness), or Ananda (bliss). Book in for
private yoga classes and perfect your meditation
technique amid the soothing landscape. Boasting
some of region’s most spectacular sunsets, this
is a great spot to sit back and soak up the serenity.
7
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
CON DAO, VIETNAM
WHY: With new direct flights to Vietnam, the
South East Asian country is at the top of 2012’s
destination musts. Discover the country’s
sapphire oceans, vanilla-hued sands and truly
delish cuisine together.
WHEN: This 16-island archipelago is close enough
to the equator to remain pretty balmy throughout
much of the year, with temperatures averaging at
about 27 °C. But, if you really want to play it safe,
head out between January and June for non-stop
sunshine.
WHERE TO STAY: Backed by mangrove forests and
boasting stunning views out over the East Vietnam
Sea, Con Dao Six Senses’ oceanfront villas come
with their own private infinity pool, outdoor rain
shower, beachfront terrace and personal butler.
Whilst most newlyweds will relish the chance
to finally show off their bikini bodies and leave
all thoughts of the gym behind, Con Dao offers
lifestyle and wellness counselling, as well as
beach yoga, meditation and an extensive list of
spa treatments. So you’re likely to return home
the healthiest newlyweds in all the land.
8
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
GREAT MERCURY ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND
WHY: For an exciting action-packed honeymoon,
we’ve located the perfect adventure playground
sitting just off the coast of New Zealand’s North
Island. Guaranteed to satisfy your every thrill-
seeking need, this private patch of land goes by
the name of Great Mercury Island and offers over
50 miles of pristine coastline for you to explore
however you see fit.
WHEN: Head out in the summer months between
November and March for the best of New
Zealand’s weather, or a little later between March
and October if you don’t mind a slight chill in the
air.
WHERE TO STAY: Sleeping up to 16 guests in a
small range of eco-chic accommodations, Great
Mercury Island is the ideal honeymoon hideout.
Explore the underwater scenery on a scuba
adventure or try your hand at sea kayaking, wind
surfing or jet skiing. Of course, if you did just want
to spend your days sunbathing, we promise we
won’t tell a soul.
9
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
GALLE, SRI LANKA
WHY: We’re not afraid to admit it: on honeymoon
more than ever, the idea of sharing our precious
space with too many other sand-stealing couples
– or god forbid, families – fills us with dread.
Thankfully, we’ve found the ideal stretch of isolated
sand sitting on the southwest tip of Sri Lanka.
With just 12 suites on offer on this particular
private beach, you’ll never have to sneak down
and reserve your sun lounger.
WHEN: This area receives the highest rainfall in
Sri Lanka so make sure to check your timings
carefully before packing your bags. For a sun-
drenched sojourn, head off between December
and March.
WHERE TO STAY: One of Sri Lanka’s very best
boutique hotels, Aditya’s secluded oceanfront
suites tick all our honeymoon boxes. Named
not numbered, the suites here offer a range of
different design features, from tropical gardens,
to split level rooms and sunken bathtubs. Come
night time, head out to your private candle-lit
plunge pool with a chilled bottle of champagne for
a late-night (skinny?) dip under the stars.
10
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
CAMPS BAY, SOUTH AFRICA
WHY: If you like your sea views served up with a
little something extra, South Africa’s Camps Bay
will fulfil your honeymoon fantasies. Set at the
base of Table Mountain, this little corner of the
globe comes with a pretty impressive backdrop
and, luckily, some of the best beaches about.
WHEN: The weather here does have a reputation
for being a little changeable, with locals warning
of four seasons appearing in just one day. From
November to March, though, you needn’t worry as
the sun shines pretty much all day, every day.
WHERE TO STAY: Boasting both mountain and
ocean views, the deluxe suites at POD are our
top choice for cinema-worthy scenery. Inside,
massive bedroom areas lead into equally massive
bathrooms, featuring walk-in rain showers and
oversized tubs. Out on your private terrace you’ll
find a secluded pool perched overlooking the
ocean – perfect for a sunset soak before bed.
11
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
CAYO ESPANTO, BELIZE
WHY: It’s your honeymoon – if all you want is to
be completely spoiled, that’s ok. Be completely
indulged on the super-luxe island of Cayo
Espanto, just off the coast of Belize, for a little
slice of newlywed heaven. Measuring just four
acres in total, every grain of sand on this private
island is exclusive and washed by the warmest of
Caribbean waters.
WHEN: With a year round sub-tropical climate,
Belize can see quite a bit of rain, as well as the
odd hurricane between August and October. Jet
off from December to May to experience a sun-
soaked island paradise.
WHERE TO STAY: There’s just the one resort on
this tiny Island with only seven beach villas to
choose from. But, for those looking for something
really special, we’d recommend you push
the boat out with the island’s only over-water
bungalow. Suspended over the sea at the end of
a 150-foot dock and decorated with custom-made
furnishings, this is one of the most intimate and
romantic rooms we’ve ever clapped eyes on.
12
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
SARDINIA, ITALY
WHY: For all you foodies out there, we’ve found
a little culinary gem sitting on the shores of
northern Sardinia. Actually closer to Africa than
Italy, this beautiful island enjoys some of the best
weather in the Med, with statuesque architecture,
alongside golden sand and bright blue waters.
WHEN: Like most of Europe, the best time to visit is
between May and August – although it does stay
hot here into September if you’re searching out
some late summer sun.
WHERE TO STAY: Set yourself up in one of La
Coluccia’s gorgeous guest rooms before heading
down for a romantic dinner served up alongside
stunning water views. With an in-house menu
that could keep us occupied for weeks, there’s
little need to venture off this gorgeous corner of
coastline. If you do feel the urge to explore, hire
a car and head off to discover the island’s many
little villages or put your sea legs to work on a
sailing day trip to uncover some of Sardinia’s
prettiest coves and remote beaches.
15
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
THE BEST ROSE-BASED BEAUTY PRODUCTSLeave the Valentines cliché of a dozen red roses to
the unimaginative romantics. In actual fact, with
its anti-ageing, toning, plumping and softening
properties, the flower of love is more than just
a pretty face. From nourishing moisturisers to
a balm for utterly kissable lips, we have picked
the best in rose-infused beauty to leave your skin
date (or on the pull) ready.
16
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
THE
BEACH HOUSE
17
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
ALILA ULUWATU VILLAS, BALI
WHERE: Sex-on-stilts on the southern coast of
Bali’s Bukhit Peninsula, Alila Uluwatu Villas sits
atop a limestone plateau and is a contemporary-
chic, cross-continental pad of luxury where only
the finest of the fine stay. And yes, that could be
you. Only fifteen minutes from Jimbaran Bay and
half an hour from Ngurah International Airport, it
couldn’t be easier to. Well, comparatively.
WHAT: As far as views go, this one is A-Okay with
us. Simply lounge beside your private plunge
pool in your own cabana (cabana boy by previous
arrangement), and leave cocktail-making to your
villa’s butler. Feeling frisky? Why not try out the
outdoor rain shower as the sun sets? We promise
no one will look. Unless you want them too (that’s
also by previous arrangement).
WHY: Way back in 1956, Harriet Van Horne wrote
in Vogue, “Cooking is like love, it should be
entered into with abandon or not at all.” Who are
we to argue? Sign up for Alila’s Culinary Journey,
where you’ll be taken to local markets and then
instructed on how to take the spice from the
bedroom to the kitchen with a cooking lesson.
Plus, everyone knows that a way into a man’s
heart is through his stomach.
18
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
SEXONSTILTS
19
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
THE FACTS:
20
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
Looking perfectly sun-kissed, naturally
dishevelled and effortlessly chic
should be what being at the beach is
all about. Sadly, for us mere mortals
this translates to a frizzy barnet, a
sweaty red face and more orange peel than we are
happy with. Until you know how to faux it, that is.
The beach faux is all in the prep, so here’s Beach
Tomato’s guide to looking effortlessly hot, the way
that nature (should have) intended.
WAYS TO LOOK PERFECT ON THE BEACH...
21
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
A beach retreat is all about rocking an effortless
sans make up look. Easier said than done –
getting picture perfect, poreless, lineless, flawless
skin requires some serious dedication. Cue EF
MediSpa, the ultimate experts and a one stop
shop for all your skin needs. Be organised and
head spa-side three months before you plan on
going bare, in this time these beauty experts will
create a bespoke package to address all your skin
problems – be it acne, scarring, redness, uneven
skin tone, large pores or fine lines, they’ll get your
skin in tip-top-dare-to-go-bare shape.
Facials available from £129 at EF MediSpa
DIY: StriVectin is hailed as the scientific skincare
brand to cure any of your skin irks du jour.
Eradicate dullness, shrink pores and even out
your skin texture while you get your zzz’s with
SriVectin’s Overnight Facial Resurfacing Serum,
£51.
22
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
If the thought of humidity teamed with obligatory
ocean dips fills your barnet with holiday-frizz-
fear, you’re not alone. Well, thanks to the Kebelo
System, £199, you can leave your bags of serums,
sprays, mousses and mists at home (plus, you’ll
have more room to pack those extra bikinis).
Unlike conventional Brazilian blow drys, The
Kebelo system does not leave you with poker
straight locks, but instead gives you a better
version of your current hair – basically sans frizz.
So, emerge from the sea and frolic in the humidity
while sporting the ultimate beach locks that mere
mortal products just can’t buy.
DIY: It’s no secret that sun, sea and chlorine take
its tole on your fair locks. To ensure you don’t
return home beautiful and golden, but with straw
upon your head, build up your hairs strength and
eliminate split ends before you go with Kerastase’s
new star product, Fibre Architecte.
23
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
It’s no secret that long luscious eyelashes make
you look more awake, feminine and, well, just
prettier. However, trend-of-the-moment, eyelash
extensions aren’t particularly swimming and
heat friendly (not to mention they can be a little
more TOWIE that Brazilian goddess). For those
who want “eyes that pop”, without the faff of
extensions, you need to book an appointment with
eyelash guru Sue Marsh immediately. With her
incredible eyelash lift, expect your own lashes,
just longer, curlier, fuller and all around better.
Farewell mascara. Farewell high maintenance.
Hello looking “naturally” better. Sue, you’re a
saviour.
Available at Cosmetics a la Carte, from £140
DIY: No time for the full works? To faux your own
way, ensure you dye your eyelashes the darkest
colour your complexion can take. Eylure Eyelash
Dye, £7.40
24
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
A mani/pedi is generally part of most girls’
beach prep. However, after a flight, transfer,
a few beach side cocktails and a dip in the sea,
it is near impossible to keep chips at bay. Well,
at Beach Tomato we see it as our responsibility
to trial many beauty treatments to tell you what
actually works and, well, we were just blown away
by the Urban Retreat’s Everlasting Manicure and
Pedicure, £55. Editor Kirsty tried this for her trip
to Malaysia and it lasted not just a month, but
also withstanding surfing, hiking, a daily swim, 30
hours on a flight, the odd drunken night and, the
biggest test of all, buckets of pistachio nuts. 10
out of 10 for the best long lasting manicure. In the
world. Ever.
DIY: To keep your nails long, strong and in tip top
condition, Butter London’s horse power, £18.50
to the rescue. It even doubles up as a base and
top coat.
25
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
According to a recent survey, donning a bikini in
front of your man (or anybody for that matter)
gives 84% of women holiday fear. It is true, being
practically naked with lumps and bumps is a
daunting prospect. Luckily, the beauty industry
has caught onto women’s insecurity and there are
treatments galore to slim you down before you
have to bare all. Widely coveted, cult spa Bliss’
fatgirlslim treatment, £127, is praised as one of
the most effective. With dry brushing, a seaweed
mask, a wrap and a rubdown (!), you walk away
slender, smooth and ready to flash that flesh.
DIY: Functionlab Trimming and Toning
supplements, £95, are a great way to take matters
into your own hand. A course for 30 days helps
burn fat and increase collagen synthesis. All in all
you are thinner and younger. Sign us up.
36
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
et’s be honest here: Everyone
cares about looking hot on the
beach. And when we say hot,
we mean smokin’. Without
comparing you to live bait,
your seaside get-up should be
a-lure-ing (sorry) enough to
catch the right kind of fish (not
sharks). So whether your bikini tastes run toward
the effortlessly chic like Rosie Huntington-Whitely
and Sienna Miller, or towards the classically
glamorous like Grace Kelly or Marion Cotillard,
read on for our tips on what to wear to impress
the opposite sex on the beach…
THE BEST SWIMWEAR FOR WOMEN TO IMPRESS
MEN...
37
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
With loose, tousled waves, golden skin and
nonchalantly mis-matched bikinis, Sienna, Rosie
Huntington-Whiteley are the poster girls for
effortless beach chic. Take their lead and mix-up
your bikinis and style with boho accessories.
High-waisted retro shapes add a touch of old world
charm to seaside lounging. Team with a pair of
wing-tipped sunglasses for an unmistakable dose
of glamour. Who said less is more? Take a note
out of style icon Florence’s book and add a turban
for a look that Grace Kelly would approve of.
Make like Megan Fox and out-hot the sun in a
fierce We Are Handsome one-piece that could
frighten the sharks out of the sea (in a good way)
and turn heads in your direction. Paint your talons
in a saucy shade of blood red. You’re no shrinking
violet after all.
Keep shapes simple and clean and go all-out
with an in-season print. Mungo Gurney’s one-
shouldered one-piece will have every girl green
with envy and catch every guys eye, what’s more
it will take you seamlessly from the beach to the
bar. Win win.
26
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
Leggy Scandi blondes and sultry Brazilians… Whatever. We’ve turned to a new breed of (porcelain) model to showcase this season’s prettiest jewellery designs.
Photography by AMAYA DUCRU CLOUTHIERStyling by KATIE YIANNAKIS
27
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
28
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
35
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
38
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
omen are fickle creatures. One
minute they want us looking like
Daniel Craig in Bond, sporting the
tiniest of men’s swim trunks, then,
we’re supposed to channel a more rough ‘n’ ready,
Hugh Jackman vibe. It’s not easy. And the main
thing is, you wanna have bikini-clad babes giving
you a mental ‘10’ as you walk by. Anyone who says
differently is lying. Or really ugly. So, whether you
want to go down the route of suave trunk masters
like Jude Law in The Talented Mr Ripley or work a
more laid-back beachy look, here’s our fool proof
guide to what men’s swimwear to wear on the
beach to impress the ladeez.
THE BEST SWIMWEAR FOR MENTO IMPRESS WOMEN...
39
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
Pared-back, easy elegance is the key here.
Leave the lurid boardies at home (or burn them,
whatever), and stick to classic, “Cary Grant
would”, styles. Team with timeless shades and a
straw hat for an easy formula for cool.
The key to this look is a fairly tightly-wired rig. As
in, a good set of pecs will make almost anything
work. Alpha male Steve McQueen is the poster
boy for this look – nonchalant and undeniably
cool. This look goes with a swagger, not a strut.
If you’re going to make like Matthew McConaughey
and use the beach as your workout space, you
need to look the part. This requires a certain
degree of butchness and style. Sporty stripes and
clean white look equal ready for a spirited game
of Frescobol (perfect for showing off hand-eye
coordination in close proximity to your prey).
It’s no wonder Tom Ripley stole Dickie Greenleaf’s
life in The Talented Mr Ripley – we would too to
look that good lounging by the Med. Keep the
trunks on the short side of things and wear with a
golden tan. It’s ok to get a spray before you go, the
ladies prefer it when you’re not the same colour
as your yacht.
40
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
DRESS: AQUABRACELETS: GINA STEWART COX
41
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
42
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
43
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
44
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
45
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
46
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
47
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
48
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
49
THE ROMANCE ISSUE
