Weekend Habitat: Casa Modesta, Portugal

Breathe and escape for this Weekend Habitat. Casa Modesta is a small family run hotel located in the Algarve, Portugal which I had the pleasure of visiting and photographing in October 2019. Combining rural tourism with a contemporary feel, this tranquil oasis is the perfect weekend escape for a slower way of life. Consisting of 9 rooms with patios, privacy is guaranteed. The property promotes and supports local businesses; it's a good feeling to know you will be supporting small. Skip the larger chain hotels in the coming months and keep these family traditions running. You won't be disappointed.

Photography: Helen-Jayne Driscoll

Casa Modesta Website: https://securept.e-gds.com/casamodesta/

Weekend Habitat: Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris

Located on the prestigious Avenue Hoche, Le Royal Monceau embodies the Parisian "je-ne-sais-quoi" in all of its spontaneity and culture. Founded in 1928, the hotel is quintessential yet contemporary. The rooms are designed with 40's and 50's notes in mind. If you're looking for that traditional Parisian apartment, The Presidential suite is the one for you. The large panel doors and high ceilings make you question if you're in a hotel or a French luxurious home. With an added guest room, it's the perfect destination for an extended group to enjoy a night or two in the 1st Arr.

Moving onto the Ray Charles suite, the art deco curves lure you in. A rendez-vous for artists and bold spirits who are not afraid of their own era. Even though the suite is spacious, with the dropped ceilings and loft feel; it's that touch more cosy and takes you back to a time of 60's soul and jazz.

The images speak for themselves....so when can we move in?

Photography: Helen-Jayne Driscoll

Le Royal Monceau website: https://www.raffles.com/paris/

Weekend Habitat: Relais Christine

Discreet and peaceful, Relais Christine is nestled within Saint-Germain-des-Pres in the 6th Arrondissement. A grand mansion house built in the 1600’s, the property preserves the intimacy of the private residence it once was with traditional French period features and character. The bathrooms caught my attention with black marble and golden touches. Old fireplaces and vaulted ceilings make the lounges a perfect place to relax. Or if self-care is a priority on your trip, the Guerlain spa set in the stone vaults doesn’t disappoint. 

Photography: Helen-Jayne Driscoll 

Relais Christine website: https://relais-christine.com/en/