Services Provided: Cultural Visits

Salon Privé Concours d’Elegance Classic Car Show

Posted on May 20, 2024 by - Event, Fine Dining, Lifestyle, Luxury

Salon Privé Luxury Car Event

When conceiving their own event, it was the exclusivity, elegance, and ambience of Concours events in Amelia Island, Monterey and Lake Como that inspired brothers Andrew & David Bagley. Today, Salon Privé sits alongside these events on the world stage, providing the UK with a Concours event to be proud of.

Every year at the end of summer, Salon Privé occupies the South Lawn at Blenheim Palace, UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancestral home of Winston Churchill. Hosted by Event Patron His Grace, the Duke of Marlborough, it is the ultimate end-of-Summer party,where the car world goes to have fun. Whether looking to get up-close to the rarest and most desirable cars and motorcycles in the world or to be surrounded by glamour, diamonds and Champagne, Salon Privé has something for all.

On the lawn, you’ll find Automotive Manufacturers from around the world including Aston Martin, Bugatti, Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren and Rolls-Royce. Displays will showcase everything from reborn rally legends to next generation hypercars, with a vast array of supercars, classic cars and even flying cars in-between.

The Luxury Retail Village, a specially curated collection of luxury boutiques, will reflect all elements of the luxury lifestyle. Brands on display are yours to meet and explore, ranging from Helicopters and Boats through to Milliners and Tailors.

For guests, Salon Privé are delighted to offer more hospitality options than ever before, with options to suit all groups and preferences with Al Fresco Dining, Churchill Pavilion and The Glass House.

Al Fresco Dining guests will enjoy full-hospitality on the Salon Privé Lawns, including a Buffet Luncheon, English Afternoon Tea, Complimentary Bar and Pommery Champagne. A step up, the Churchill Pavilion offers an enhanced experience with reserved seating, hostess service, an upgraded three-course luncheon menu, exclusive entertainment and a private terrace overlooking the Concepts & Prototypes Lawn. Small groups are accommodated on shared tables, with groups of 8-10 seated together in one group.

Finally, at the epitome of gastronomic excellence, is The Glass House. Hosted in a stunning wrought-iron structure overlooking the Duke of Marlborough’s private Italian Gardens, guests will enjoy a bespoke three-course tasting menu with exquisite wine pairings, followed by an English Afternoon Tea.

If you would like to experience your end-of-summer party at Salon Privé, please get in touch with the Blend Group team.

 

 

Three seasons, two weeks, one wondrous Japan

Posted on December 13, 2023 by - Cultural, Fine Dining, Leisure, Luxury

Japan Luxury Trip

Japan is a country with a bounty so generous that here at Blend Group we have been able to put together a trip that exposes you to three different seasons in just two weeks. Offering unique cultures, an ancient and diverse history and picturesque scenery, Japan is a place like no other and we’ve made sure you can experience it all.

Your first stop are the snowy mountains of Hakuba, one of Japan’s most renowned ski areas. Comprising multiple resorts and boasting the enviable trait of almost guaranteed snow fall, it truly is a world class ski destination. Situated within the stunning mountain scenery of the Japanese Alps, this is where your incredible adventure begins.

The area gained worldwide recognition during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, hosting several of the skiing events, and over the years has developed into a winter paradise for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. Whether your preference is gentle pistes or tree-lined powder runs, Hakuba has got you covered. Despite its credentials, however, it remains a relatively quiet ski area, renowned for the magical combination of reliable snowfall and sunny days.

Japan skiing holiday

Whilst here you’ll stay at the Phoenix Hakuba, situated at the heart of the Hakuba skiing experience and offering complete luxury. Your two-bed chalet comprises of; a master bedroom, with a large walk-in en-suite; a secondary bedroom; a spacious lounge area; a drying room and underfloor heating. On top of this, a state-of-the-art smart television and speaker system is installed to keep you entertained during any down time.

Throughout your stay you’ll be able to enjoy the exquisite culinary options available at Mimi’s Restaurant and Bar, where beautifully crafted meals are prepared using local produce. Massage services will ensure you’re able to fully relax as you unwind after a day on the slopes.

After the mountainous beauty of Hakuba it’s on to Japan’s former capital, Kyoto. For eleven centuries the emperors of multitude of Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, Samurai Castles, palaces and gardens ensure Kyoto is regarded as the cultural capital of Japan. Also contributing to this reputation is one of the world’s largest collections of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Aligned with all of the culture on show, you’ll be able to marvel in the beauty of the early stages of the cherry blossom season, as the city becomes covered in clouds of the stunning national flower, Sakura. It truly is a sight to behold and one of the most breathtaking spectacles this magical country has to offer.

Kyoto is also famed for its cuisine. Not only does food here have a rich and historic tradition, comprising of various culinary styles that are centuries old, it is also the home of many of Japan’s most famous sake breweries. Be sure to lose yourself for an afternoon amongst the numerous authentic wooden teahouses and traditional restaurants.

During your time here you will stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, one of the city’s most luxurious accommodations. It is centred around an 800-year-old ikeniwa (pool garden) which provides an immensely tranquil and relaxing setting, giving off the feel of a modern garden sanctuary.

Japan cherry blossoms holiday

Boasting the characteristics of a traditional Japanese house, your Deluxe Room is the perfect place to unwind after a day’s exploring, whether in the comfortable sitting area or the traditional Japanese tub. Expansive windows offer plenty of natural light and stunning views of the ancient Myoho-in Temple and an on-site spa is sure to help you find your zen.

The hotel offers multiple exquisite cuisine options, including; Brasserie, a sleek and modern waterside bar; Sushi Wakon, a Michelin star sushi restaurant; and Fuju, a traditional lounge which serves local sweets and matcha tea by day and sake and champagne by night.

Relax to your heart’s content over the next four days from your base at the Atta Okinawa. Complete opulence is assured here, with ocean views, incredible scenery and fresh Ryuku cuisine. Your Deluxe Suite has its own private pool and you’ll have stunning beaches on your doorstep.

UMITO PLAGE The Atta Okinawa

After enjoying the slopes in Hakuba and seeing the sights of Kyoto, this Pacific paradise is the perfect place to unwind and revel in some you-time.

If you would like to enquire into a bespoke trip to Japan, please get in touch here.

St Regis Vommuli, The Maldives

Posted on March 15, 2022 by - Cultural, Fine Dining, Leisure, Luxury

If you’re looking for an island getaway and complete paradise there are few destinations which offer more than the Maldives. Located in the Indian Ocean around 400 miles off the coast of mainland Asia, this small archipelago is a tropical paradise filled with white sand beaches, palm trees, crystal clear waters and incredible weather.

On this group of islands there is no better place to stay than St Regis Vommuli, a 5-star resort located in between luscious rainforest and pristine beaches on the private island of Vommuli. Boasting a private lagoon, luxury spa, outdoor infinity pool, six restaurants and bars and stunning beaches on the doorstep, you really will have no reason to want to leave this opulent resort.

During your visit you’ll stay in a St Regis Overwater 1-Bedroom Suite which comes equipped with its own private plunge pool and encompasses the true essence of island living. Unparalleled views of the ocean, along with four overwater hammocks, sun loungers and a wooden gazebo provides a relaxing and totally idyllic setting.

When you’re ready for a break from the sun, the suite’s mahogany floored living room complete with a state-of-the-art technology set-up, including a 55-inch LCD television and sound system, will provide you the perfect setting.

There is no need to worry about getting bored whilst in-resort. Scuba diving and snorkelling excursions will allow you to explore the stunning coral reef, whilst parasailing expeditions are available for those who want unrivalled birds eye views of the island. You’ll also be able to take to the seas, either in kayaks or a chartered private boat and there’s a recreation area with a variety of entertainment options, including table tennis, pool and video games.

The resort’s Spa and Fitness facilities offer ultimate relaxation opportunities. The Iridium Spa provides a transformative journey within an oasis of tropical inspiration and the Yoga and Meditation Studio and Fitness Centre provides a variety of group or individual classes, as well as a personal trainer service.

Additionally, an outdoor tennis court as well as opportunities for biking, volleyball, fly-fishing, water-skiing, jet-skiing and sailing will allow you to be as active as you wish during your stay.

The in-resort dining options are yet another joy that St Regis Vommuli has to offer. A delightfully vast array of fine dining awaits, including; Decanter, the hidden subterranean restaurant and wine experience; Cargo, a pop-up located in a tropical garden; and Craft, which offers a fresh spin on everyday classics like burgers and tacos.

If you are looking for locally inspired dishes then Alba is the place for you and for an especially romantic experience why not take a starlit dinner set along the ocean shoreline. It’s safe to say, no matter what your preferred tastes, St Regis Vommuli will have something that delights.

With its exquisite weather and beautiful waters, the Maldives provides the setting for true restoration and whilst there we strongly believe St Regis Vommuli to be the ideal place to base yourself. This luxurious and remote resort has absolutely everything you need to enjoy a holiday of complete relaxation.

Wherever you are coming from, your package will include business class flights to ensure you travel in style. To find out more about a bespoke package for you, please get in touch with Blend Group so we can put together your perfect itinerary.

International Rugby, Vineyards and Luxury Safari in South Africa

Posted on November 18, 2020 by - Event, Luxury, Sport, Wildlife

British and Irish Lion Tour 2021 Experience

The Lions tour is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the sporting calendar. Occurring every four years, there are few sporting events that muster as much impassioned support and on-field commitment. The nations of England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland unite to tour one of the three Southern Hemisphere giants of the game and in 2021 it is the turn of South Africa to host.

For a long-standing client of Blend Group, we created a bespoke nine-night experience to ensure they will be at the heart of the action. Arriving in Cape Town they are spending four nights at the 5* Marly hotel in a Superior Suite. Located in Camps Bay, a chic suburb on the Atlantic Seaboard, the hotel is surrounded by trendy cafes and bars. The area’s relaxed daytime atmosphere combined with its energetic nightlife, as well as the fact it is located 7 minutes away from the centre of Cape Town, make it the ideal location for a city break. Additionally, from their Superior Suite, guests can take in views of the dramatic and world-famous Table Mountain.

Following this, guests will enjoy the Aquila Safari experience. Not only does the Aquila pride itself on its luxurious hospitality and facilities, including a 35-meter saltwater pool and the serene Tranquila Spa, but it offers an unforgettable wildlife experience too. It gives its guests the chance to experience the reserve’s natural flora and fauna by vehicle, quad bike, or horseback, allowing you to get up close and personal with the wildlife. Included in our clients’ stay are two safari drives plus breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Bespoke Event Experiences - Cape Town Stadium

Up next is the Delaire Graff Estate, which is widely considered to be one of the jewels of the Cape Winelands. Regarded as one of the finest vineyards in the world, it is also a stunning place to unwind and we believe no trip to South Africa is complete without a stay here. The luxury of a Presidential Suite awaits, which includes a private terrace, living room with fireplace, private heated pool, complimentary bar and breathtaking surrounding views. Why not take a look at our Insight about fine wine in South Africa for more information about the Delaire Graff Estate.

This epic trip ends in Johannesburg with two nights at the Marriott, staying in a Suite with views of the city. It is here that the clients will watch the third and final Test between South Africa and the British and Irish Lions.

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss how we can create a similar, yet bespoke, South African experience for you.

An Olympic odyssey in Japan

Posted on October 27, 2020 by - Cultural, Event, Luxury, Sport

Luxury Travel Destinations

World class athletes meet world class culture and dining in a trip that takes in Japan’s twin centres of tourism.

A little over a year before the Summer Olympics 2020 were scheduled, we were approached to create a magnificent Japanese adventure for two families. We worked closely with the guests to understand their interests, and created a bespoke itinerary that allows them to experience the incredible culture that Japan has to offer, while leaving time for the group to fully enjoy the incredible spectacle of the Olympic Games.

With a diverse list of interests across the group, Blend Group were tasked with creating an itinerary that will provide an exceptional experience for everyone on the trip. The group will be met at Tokyo airport by their private VIP transfer, who will whisk them across the city to the five-star Mesm Tokyo. This hotel is perfectly placed on the edge of Tokyo Bay, offering easy access to the Olympic Tokyo Bay Zone, and the Olympic Heritage Zone. To give our guests a sense of the city, they will be taken on a three-day private tour that covers some of Tokyo’s most special sights. From the spiritual shrine of Meiji Jingu, to the unique street style of Harajuku and the contemporary architecture of Omotesando; the immersive art of TeamLabs to a meet and greet with Asimo the Robot at the Museum of Science & Engineering technology; a workshop in Nijutsu with a member of an ancient ninja clan, to Japanese home cooking classes Manga drawing lessons, or a tour of the Studio Ghibli Museum, the group will experience a wealth of ancient and modern Japanese culture.

Japan bespoke event experiences

Of course, the main draw of the trip is the opportunity to see world class athletes compete at the Olympics. The group will have tickets to the memorable Opening Ceremony, as well as a number of competitions that match their interests.

After experiencing the unique culture of Tokyo, Japan’s modern heart, the group will travel to Kyoto, the country’s traditional soul. A first-class train ticket on the Shinkansen, more commonly referred to as the Bullet Train, is an experience in itself and will wind its way through the countryside between the two cities, before our guests arrive at the Four Seasons Kyoto, the city’s newest luxury address. Here, guests can relax, and soak up the slower pace of some of Japan’s ancient arts. The tour of Kyoto begins with a tea ceremony at a Zen temple, before taking the group to experience the temples and gardens tucked amid the bamboo groves in the northwest and west of the city. The next day, Blend Group have organised for our guests to see the iconic red gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine. It’s the perfect place to take a walk and build up a thirst for a traditional green tea, the famous export of nearby Uji. The group will also unlock their inner Zen creativity with an Ikebana flower arranging lesson, which draws traditional Japanese principles of simplicity to create stunning aesthetic arrangements.

Alongside this cultural adventure, the group specified that they would like to experience Japan’s world-famous food scene. Blend Group have organised a gastronomic journey to match the incredible itinerary, taking in early morning trips to find the freshest fish at the iconic Tsukiji fish market, to Robot restaurants, Michelin-starred fine dining at city hotspots, and even exclusive insider access to a private geisha dinner in Kyoto.

If you are interested in combining sport and culture in Japan, please get in touch with a member of the Blend Group team.

 

 

 

Experience the Wonders of Tanzania

Posted on October 26, 2020 by - Cultural, Leisure, Luxury, Wildlife

Luxury Safari Holiday to Tanzania

Tanzania is a country of astounding natural splendour. It is home to some of the largest national parks in Africa, as well as numerous beautiful islands surrounded by coral reef. Blend Group constructed an incredible trip for a group of eight clients who recently visited.

When you think of Tanzania, one of the first spectacles that comes to mind are the expansive plains of the Serengeti National Park. Simply put, the Serengeti is one of the world’s most impressive natural landscapes and one of the most celebrated wildlife reserves on Earth. It is here, in this untamed wilderness, that the Big Five – the rhino, the elephant, the leopard, the lion and the buffalo – roam free.

The group landed at Kilimanjaro International Airport before a chartered flight transferred them directly to the Seronera Airstrip, located within the National Park.  Here they spent three magical nights of ultimate luxury at the Four Seasons Safari Lodge. Their private villa allowed them to discover the Serengeti on a near-exclusive basis, whilst being able to enjoy a 24-hour personal attendant service, personalised in-villa fine dining and of course front-row seats at the greatest natural show on earth.

From this base our clients were able to explore the vastness of the Serengeti over the following days. Unforgettable guided game drives and helicopter rides ensured they got the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. A multitude of safari options are available and however you choose to spend your days in the Serengeti, the hotel’s spa awaits to help you rehydrate, restore and re-energise.

Luxury Safari Holiday to Tanzania

Our clients enjoyed evening meals in the Boma Grill and Kula’s Restaurant. At the Boma Grill guests enjoy an authentic African feast around an open-air firepit, taking in the local flavours and being immersed in an evening of memorable Maasai culture. Kula’s, on the other hand, offers various live cooking stations and hearty dinner dishes paired with wine and exotic delicacies for dessert.

Following their safari adventure was some well-deserved beach time. We organised the group’s travel to the northernmost island of the Zanzibar archipelago, Pemba Island. Pemba is one of the less-visited islands of Zanzibar and therefore presents a truly laid-back atmosphere.

The group stayed at the Aiyana Resort and Spa and in their sea-facing villa they found complete relaxation and restoration. The serene and stunning white-sand beaches, including the hotel’s 500 metres of private pristine beach, and turquoise waters are the picture of paradise. Private islands await and offer the perfect contrast to the hustle of the Serengeti.

The group enjoyed some of the best scuba diving to be found in the Indian Ocean, diving in unparalleled clear and warm waters in this tropical paradise. Divers can expect to find huge green turtles, Napoleon wrasses, eagle rays, tuna and king fish. Reef sharks can also be spotted, although these are a rarer sighting. On the surface of the water, you’re likely to see schools of dolphins and if the season is right you may even see whale sharks and humpbacks.

There was also the opportunity to take to the seas for some deep-sea fishing, in search of Blue Marlin, as well as enjoying a magical sunset cruise. Additionally, the island’s deep valleys have made it popular with mountain bikers and our clients were keen to give this a go, as well as taking on a spot of kitesurfing.

The guests dined on immaculate sea food in the form of red snappers, yellow fin tuna, dorado fillets and local lobster. Guests also have the option of beach dining – the ideal way to enjoy the stunning food and wine.

To create your own Tanzania itinerary, please get in touch.

Grand Slam at Roland Garros

Posted on October 25, 2020 by - Accommodation, Event, Leisure, Travel

Over the past few years, there has been one name etched into the thoughts of anyone attending Roland Garros. Rafa Nadal. The undisputed king of the clay court, Nadal was the one to see. And that was exactly what a group of tennis fans had in mind when they approached Blend Group to organise a trip to Roland Garros, the only major tennis tournament on clay.

Our clients wanted to see both the men’s semi-final and the final, while also experiencing the fine art and dining that Paris has to offer. A four-night stay at the five-star Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg put the group close to both the sporting action at Le Stade Roland Garros, and within easy access of the city’s cultural hotspots.

The tennis was accompanied by a full VIP hospitality package, with canapés, seated dining for lunch, and category one seats for the match. In between sets, the lounge was available for refreshments and champagne. The latter was much needed when, true to form, Nadal took the championship prize, after an exhilarating match against Austria’s Dominic Thiem.

The French Open experience

Paris is always about art, culture, and fine dining, amongst whatever else visitors find to do. The bells of Notre Dame ringing over the Seine, the intricate sweetness of freshly crafted patisserie, and the scent of French classics winding out from the doors of a brasserie. Our guests wanted to indulge in everything that Paris has to offer, but with just one day between the tennis matches, we had to curate an itinerary that offered a comprehensive experience of the French capital, in just a few hours.

Tickets to the Louvre were booked in advance, giving the group the chance to admire world-class artworks without the queue. Lunch on the river provided that classic French café fix, followed by a stroll through the still bohemian streets of Montmartre. Guests then took in Paris’s most iconic landmarks from the water, as a private cruise along the Seine gave them the opportunity to see as much as possible from one spot.

Paris is the home of French fine dining, and there are big name restaurants in every arrondissement. However, our guests wanted to experience something a little less obvious, so we prepared a gastronomic adventure through four nights of dining at some of the city’s lesser known names such as La Min, Picotte, La Fontaine Demars and L’huitrerie Saint Germain. View the itinerary below to see how the trip was planned out.

If you would like to combine a major tennis championship with a city break in between, please get in touch via the Contact Us page.

 

Revel in Opulence as the Lions Hunt for Revenge

Posted on October 23, 2020 by - Cultural, Event, Luxury, Wine

British and Irish Lion Tour 2021 Experience

In the summer of 2021, the British and Irish Lions are touring South Africa for the first time since 2009. South Africa were victorious last time round so the Lions will be desperate for revenge. Few sporting occasions are as fiercely competitive as a Lions test match and being there live is said to be one of the greatest sporting experiences in the world.

We have put together a four-night trip for one of our regular clients whose group want to experience the magic of a Lions tour. The group will fly from London to Cape Town and upon arrival will check-in at the 15 On Orange Hotel, Autograph Collection where they will stay for the duration of their trip.

Allowing convenient access to all of Cape Town’s world-famous landmarks, this glamorous hotel is located a short distance from the city centre in the affluent suburb of Gardens. Surrounded by chic restaurants and bars, boutique shops and loft apartments, the group are based in the ideal location for a city break.

Amongst the hotel’s world class facilities are a 24-hour fitness centre, an outdoor swimming pool and deck and a premium pool bar which serves elegant cocktails and boasts awe-inspiring views of Table Mountain. Additionally, the hotel’s Savour restaurant promises a fresh take on the concept of Bistronomy. Using only the highest quality, fresh ingredients it serves simple yet flavoursome and authentic cuisine.

British and Irish Lion Tour 2021 Experience

 

During their time in Cape Town the group will enjoy a full-day experience at the Delaire Graff Estate, widely regarded as one of the best vineyards in the world. The excursion includes a sumptuous lunch and wine tasting at one the winery’s on-site restaurants, a truly mouth-watering prospect. To read more about this incredible vineyard, please see our Delaire Graff Insight.

The group will also partake in a round of golf at Jack Nicklaus’s Pearl Valley Golf Course, surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. Luscious fairways and beautiful water features are the trademarks of this course and our group is certain to relish their round at what was ranked South Africa’s 5th best course in 2018/2019 by Golf Digest. The course has played host to the South African Open on three occasions since its opening in 2003 which emphasises its esteemed quality.

The highlight of the trip, however, is certain to be the Lions test match that the group will watch at the Cape Town Stadium. The second test of the tour is often absolutely pivotal in the outcome of the series and the atmosphere is guaranteed to be electric.

Please note that all transfers are included in the package on a VIP basis.

If you would like to enquire into how we can put together a bespoke Lions package for you, please get in touch.

Fine dining and fast cars in the Emirates

Posted on September 24, 2020 by - Active, Automotive, Event, Sport

Luxury Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Experience

Engines roaring, wheels spinning clouds of dust, a crowd waiting in the glow of the Middle Eastern evening sun, a collective roar ready to be released as the black and white chequers fall…

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is one of the highlights of the Formula 1 calendar. It is an experience that encompasses both sport and culture, the international racetrack sitting just 30 minutes from the capital of the United Arab Emirates.

Blend Group was approached to create an itinerary that made the most of the event and the location, with fine dining, desert experiences and, of course, VIP Paddock Club access for one of the most exciting dates on the motor sports calendar.

With petrol on the mind, our guests were in the mood for some adrenalin pumping fun on arrival, leading to Blend Group organising a private dune buggy tour of the desert outside Abu Dhabi. Adventurous members of the group were able to experience the magnitude of the wide desert skies by continuing their tour through the sunset and into the night.

Luxury Abu Dhabi Holiday

The next day it was time to head to the track. The VIP Paddock Club is situated above the team garages of the Yas Marina Circuit, affording guests a prime view of the action on the track. The Club offers a Champagne bar and gourmet food selection, as well as pit lane walks, meet and greets with the teams, live entertainment and guest speakers. Our group of motorsports aficionados were able to truly immerse themselves in the atmosphere and events of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

A key element of the trip was the fine dining offered by the Emirati capital. Despite the tight turnaround, Blend Group organised experiences at some of Abu Dhabi’s finest local and international restaurants, a reflection of the international collaboration that goes into the Grand Prix. Guests dined at Li Beirut – a Lebanese restaurant, Nusr-Et – a waterside steakhouse and Sayad – a traditional fine-dining restaurant specializing in seafood.

As first time visitors to the region, our guests were keen to make the most of their time and took the opportunity to visit neighbouring Dubai. This is a city of many facets, and we ensured that the group felt that they had experienced the best that Dubai had to offer, from a private yacht cruise taking in the iconic Burj Al Arab, the bustling Dubai Marina and the incredible architectural feat of the Palm Jumeirah; to a spectacular sunset, seen from almost 900 metres above the city, atop the Burj Khalifa, before dinner at a spectacular Thai restaurant, overlooking the majestic Dubai Fountain. 

If you would like to create your Abu Dhabi Grand Prix experience, get in touch with our team.

Sport, culture and quick thinking at the Japan Rugby Championship

Posted on September 24, 2020 by - Cultural, Event, Leisure, Sport

Luxury Japan travel trip

A combination of beautiful culture, perfect planning and welcoming people made Japan a world-class contender to host the Rugby World Championship in 2019. Brand new, purpose-built stadiums were built across the country, and the schedule seemed almost deliberately planned to allow time to take in some of the island’s most incredible sights.

Our client was keen to see England prove themselves on the pitch against Argentina and France. The matches were seven days apart, leaving plenty of time to see what else Japan had to offer. Trys in Tokyo were accompanied by alpine ascents, fine food and awe-inspiring modern digital art.

The guests arrived in Tokyo via a smooth Business Class flight from London. Rooms were organised at the five-star InterContinental, overlooking the beautiful Tokyo Bay, and just a 25-minute private transfer from the new rugby arena. An evening arrival was perfect to allow a little down time before the big game, and as morning rose, the guests were eager to head off to join the other rugby enthusiasts in the state-of-the-art 50,000 seater stadium. England swept to a relatively comfortable victory, giving our guests a chance to celebrate in the city along with fellow fans.

Japan Rugby Championship Experience

The next seven days were a contrasting escape into Japanese culture. A private day tour to Mount Fuji was organised. The mountain dominates the alpine skyline 99 kilometres from the capital, and guests were treated to magnificent views over the Southern Alps and Fuji five lakes, local Japanese Houtou Noodle cuisine, a gondola ride overlooking Lake Kawaguchi, and visit to a local farming village, offering a rarely seen insight into another side of Japanese life.

Returning to the modern city slick that Tokyo is renowned for, the group immersed themselves in the 21st century with a trip to the Digital Art Museum of Japan. The unique space offers a different take on modern masterpieces, giving a very contemporary Japanese twist to some stunning work.

Japan Rugby Championship Experience

Of course, no trip to Tokyo is complete without indulging in the epicurean delights the city is famous for, from fine dining at Michelin-starred Ishikawa, to incredible sushi at Musashi, on the top floor of the 634-metre tall Tokyo Skytree. To get a sense of the preparation behind the dishes, Blend Group also organised an excursion to the world-famous Tsukiji Fish Market, where guests strolled amid the crowds admiring the day’s finest catch.

However, the Championship was scheduled towards the end of Japan’s typhoon season, and as the weather took a turn for the worse, it was decided to cancel the match between England and France. Blend Group immediately got to work, altering the itinerary to meet the client’s wishes and facilitate a speedy return to London.

If you would like to enquire about organising a bespoke itinerary of your own, please get in touch.

 

Scottish fine dining and football

Posted on September 17, 2020 by - Cultural, Event, Fine Dining, Sport

European Football Championship & Culture Trip

Scotland’s second city is a cultural icon, a collection of striking Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture acting as a legacy of its time as a prosperous trading port. Although the ships have left, their international flair lives on, and Glasgow is a cultural hotspot, home to official institutions such as the Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet and National Theatre of Scotland, as well as a host of fringe theatre and contemporary artists.

Our guests were keen to experience Scotland’s largest city while visiting for the Euro 2020 qualifying match between Scotland and Belgium. We created a cultural itinerary that took in everything from formal exhibitions at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, which showcases art from the Renaissance era and artifacts from Ancient Egypt, to soaking up the local scene on Ashton Lane, known for its numerous lively bars and traditional pubs. Glasgow also boasts an exciting contemporary restaurant scene, and the group indulged in Scottish fine dining at Two Fat Ladies at the Buttery, and French / Scottish fusion at Cail Bruich.

European Football Championship & Culture Trip

The Buttery is one of Glasgow’s best-loved and most enduring restaurants, and has gone from strength to strength since becoming part of the Two Fat Ladies group. The interior celebrates formal Scottish luxury, with oak and mahogany, stained glass and tartan carpet bringing a unique intimate feel to the bar and the dining room, whilst still keeping a relaxed atmosphere

Of course, the main event was the match. Guests were staying at the five-star The Kimpton Blythswood, and Blend Group organised private transfers to facilitate a seamless arrival at their halfway line box at Hampden Park, the home of Scottish football. The VIP hospitality package included pre-game drinks at the bar and fine dining before kick-off, as well as a selection of foods and champagne at half time.

No trip to Scotland would be complete without a whiskey tasting. To top off this traditional visit, as a last, post-game experience, our guests set off to visit one of Glasgow’s preferred pub’s, The Pot Still, a local distillery with over 700 blends to choose from. A mixture of local recommendation and blind faith, our group thoroughly enjoyed the final activity of the weekend. Slàinte!

Get in touch with Blend Group to plan your next event experience and take full advantage of the local knowledge we utilise when you visit a new city.

The Royal Mansour Marrakech

Posted on March 11, 2020 by - Cultural, Fine Dining, Lifestyle, Luxury

Luxury Holidays to Marrakech

Framed by the snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas mountain range, Marrakech is a truly captivating city. Visitors are enchanted by its Moorish architecture, thousand-year-old history, beautiful beaches and favourable climate. The city’s colours, fragrances, palaces and markets make it a unique spectacle with plenty to offer.

The Royal Mansour is a luxuriously palatial hotel with a quintessential Moroccan essence. Your Superior Riad spans three floors and exudes elegance, privacy and intimacy. The suite’s stunning interior emits a regal feel with its splendid marble decor, delicate silks and intricate pieces of art.

One of the Riad’s most coveted features is its traditional Moroccan courtyard, which is flooded by natural light in the day and can be warmed by a crackling fire at night. A cosy lounge and minibar complete the ground floor’s furnishings whilst the roof terrace comprises a plunge pool, solarium, outdoor shower and secondary minibar.

Luxury Holidays to Marrakech

The rooftop is designed to allow unspoiled vistas of the surrounding panorama and is most spectacular on a clear night which allows you to take in the views of the beautiful skies over the medina and the Atlas mountain peaks.

The Master bedroom in each suite is equipped with either a King-size bed or two twins and has an en-suite bathroom, with bath and shower facilities. This is Moroccan hospitality in its purest form, providing a vibrant and elegant taste of high-class Moroccan life.

The hotel’s spa is accessed via the citrus garden and is again divided over three floors, offering a multitude of treatments. It promises to take wellbeing to the next level and includes a Hammam which allows you to immerse yourself fully into the traditional Moroccan relaxation experience. State of the art sporting facilities, including a heated swimming pool and gym, can also be found in the spa’s fitness centre.

The Royal Mansour’s gourmet restaurants are headed up by two chefs, both of whom possess three Michelin stars. You’re assured unique taste experiences, inventive dishes and irresistible flavours. Additionally, the Jardin du Royal Mansour provides a stunning setting to relax around the pool in, whilst surrounded by a hectare and a half of beautiful gardens.