Daily 7 May

 

 

Staying In

Read Elizabeth Strout’s New Book

One of this year’s most anticipated new books is out now, Elizabeth Strout’s The Things We Never Say – and it doesn’t disappoint, says our book reviewer Belinda Bamber. ‘It tells the story of Artie Dam, an inspirational teacher in small-town America whose family life has been rocked by tragedy and whose geniality conceals an existential crisis. When his adult son Rob reveals a terrible secret, Artie realises he's been living a life of lies yet the story is ultimately uplifting as he gains a better understanding of himself and his marriage. Readers familiar with Strout's work should know that this book introduces us to a new set of characters, but Artie's generous spirit and nagging self-doubt make him as endearing a literary figure as Lucy Barton or Olive K. You won't want to put it down.’ Out now (Penguin)

Going Out

See The Sistine Chapel In London

Can’t get to Rome? No problem: Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel is coming to London this summer (well, kind of). An immersive exhibition is bringing one of the world’s greatest masterpieces to 1 America Square by reproducing all 34 frescoes at full scale – allowing the chance to see intricate details that are tricky to spot from the Vatican’s chapel ceiling. Educational storytelling throughout, meanwhile, will offer insight into the artist’s techniques and symbolism. ‘The Sistine Chapel is one of the most important artistic achievements in human history,’ says Martin Biallas, CEO of SEE® Global Entertainment (the company behind the show), ‘and this exhibition gives audiences the chance to experience it in an intimate and accessible way, while still capturing the scale and emotional impact of the original.’ Tickets from £14, book now on chapelsistine.com

Property Of The Day

While Emily in Paris has since relocated to Rome, and will be soon heading to Greece, it is the City of Light that will always have her heart. Now’s your chance to buy-up an apartment in the very same building where the series was filmed. Très chic!

On the market for €3.5 million (£3 million), forbesglobalproperties.com

Little Luxury

Mayfair is arguably London’s priciest district – but a new happy hour is softening the blow a little. Head to Bar Below, tucked away within Michelin-starred restaurant HIDE, to try £10 cocktails like the Aphrodite: rose vermouth with Tapatio tequila, rhubarb brut and hibiscus tonic. The menu will change regularly, but it will always include a martini. hide.co.uk

Competition Time

Fancy a trip to Wales? Win a two-night spa break for two in one of the new Junior Suites at The Quay Hotel & Spa, complete with two spa treatments, dinner for two at Ebb & Flow on both evenings, and breakfast each morning. 

Psssst…

If you’re looking for a top-tier facial or tweakment from a trusted aesthetic doctor, find an expert from our vetted list of aesthetic wizards who specialise in everything from non-surgical facial lifting to subtle skin enhancements.

Whatever You Do, Don’t

Book the country branch of a members’ club (Soho Farmhouse, we’re looking at you) if you’re plotting a dirty weekend away, writes Rowan Pelling in our new Great British & Irish Hotels Guide (too many familiar faces). Her top spot for a romantic tryst? Galway’s remote Ballynahinch Castle Hotel, while friends recommend a sexy city spot like Batty Langley’s in London or a decadent hotel such as The Witchery in Edinburgh, ‘with its seductive four-posters, velvet and candlelight.’

 

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