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Hello, I'm Gemma

I'm a writer and editor with a love for bringing the world of luxury hospitality and travel to life through words. With experience writing for some of the industry’s most renowned brands, I craft stories that inspire, engage, and transport.

Featured Articles

A love letter to Africa

Africa reveals itself slowly - a land where the rhythms of life are guided by the sun's ascent and nature's call. Its vastness is defined by contrasts: flat plains that reach toward the horizon, dense bushveld alive with movement, and coastlines shaped by the ocean’s pulse. As the cradle of humankind, it holds an enduring allure, awakening something primal in all who wander here.

For the first time, Jumeirah weaves itself into Africa’s story, inviting guests to experience the continent’s spiri...

A Secret Sanctuary: Al Bahar Villas

Resting by the waters of the Arabian Gulf, Jumeirah Beach Hotel and its distinctive wave-like design have been a cherished part of Dubai’s coastline since its debut in 1997. For generations, its villas have served as a secluded retreat for families, nestled within a vibrant coastal landscape. In recent months, an elegant renovation has breathed new life into their design, creating an even deeper sense of escape.
 
As you wander along pathways bathed in soft sunlight, a feeling of discovery takes...

An essential guide to Jumeirah Bali

Bali’s story is intertwined with the influence of the Majapahit Empire - a Hindu-Javanese dynasty from the neighbouring island of Java, whose legacy lives on in the island’s architecture and culture. Perched along the cliffs of Uluwatu, Jumeirah Bali sits quietly in the coveted Pecatu region. Surrounded by tropical greenery and lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, the all-villa resort is a place where time slows to a peaceful pace, inviting guests to pause and rediscover their inner-ba...

A mother and son’s culinary legacy

The kitchen is more than a workspace for Beatrice Segoni and her son Luca Crostelli - it is a place where tradition is passed down like a family heirloom. Now at the helm of two of Jumeirah’s signature Italian restaurants - Pierchic at Jumeirah Al Qasr and the newly relaunched Cala Vista at Jumeirah Mina Al Salam - the pair infuse Dubai’s dining scene with their personal interpretations of Italian cuisine. Each dish reflects a quiet reverence for their roots in Italy’s rolling countryside by the...

Recent Articles

Explore a curated collection of my latest stories.

Mother-Daughter Getaways in Europe

In a world that always seems in a hurry, where daily routines tug us in different directions and time slips quietly away, the bond between mother and daughter grounds us and is something to be nurtured.
 
At Jumeirah, we understand that time together is a rare luxury, and that some of life's most meaningful conversations happen in the simple moments – a shared sunrise, a lingering lunch, or a leisurely walk through a storied city. Across our European retreats, from the historic charm of London t...

A Life in Motion

"Growing up in a family that prioritised well-being and fitness instilled in me a deep appreciation for movement, discipline, and overall health," explains Rashed Alowais, a valued lifetime member.

For Rashed, J Club is more than just a fitness centre - “it has become my second home.” Located at Jumeirah Beach Hotel and along the winding waterways of Madinat Jumeirah at Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, this is where his lifelong journey toward health began. He was 13 when he first stepped inside, follo...
Rocco Forte Hotels •

Our new opening in Sicily

In an unspoilt, sunny corner of southeastern Sicily, Noto is a Baroque masterpiece. Framed by rolling hills and the blue Mediterranean, this UNESCO World Heritage Town was rebuilt in radiant style after the devastating earthquake of 1693. Honey-hued palazzi and ornate churches now rise from the landscape like echoes of a bygone era. In this captivating setting, Rocco Forte Hotels will unveil Palazzo Castelluccio, a meticulously restored 18th-century residence that offers an intimate connection t...

A Food Lover’s Paradise

Amid the Maldivian archipelago, Jumeirah Olhahali Island emerges - a sanctuary of sunlit skies, swaying palms, and the languorous rhythm of island living. Here, the air carries the faint tang of salt and the warmth of tropical breezes, while evenings unfold in the rich palette of sunset - deep oranges, pastel pinks, and dusky purples.
 

The island’s bounty is its heartbeat: plump, sun-ripened fruit and vegetables; the catch of the day, brought ashore by local fishermen; and the vibrant flavours...

An Essential Guide to Jumeirah Mallorca

Mallorca, a Spanish island cocooned by turquoise waters, is a place shaped by contrasts. The rugged peaks of the UNESCO-listed Tramuntana Mountains stand sentinel over groves of olive trees and fragrant citrus orchards, while the coastline gives way to quiet coves and humming harbours. This is a place where centuries-old traditions merge with the easy rhythm of coastal living. High above the picturesque Port de Sóller, Jumeirah Mallorca feels like an extension of the landscape - a retreat that r...

The Majlis, a Meeting of Minds

As dusk settles over the desert, the first stars emerge in the vast Arabian sky. Weary travellers, drawn from distant lands, gather in the soft glow of the majlis. Inside, a gentle murmur of voices harmonises with the rhythmic pouring of gahwa Arabic coffee infused with the spiced warmth of cardamom. It is a place where the rustle of robes, the flicker of firelight, and the aroma of tradition create a sanctuary for connection. Beyond being a physical space, the majlis is a timeless tradition: a...

The story of Olhahali

In the heart of the Indian Ocean, where turquoise waves cradle unspoiled stretches of sand, Olhahali Island emerges like a quiet secret. A place where sunlit skies meet coral gardens beneath the water's surface, and the rhythms of life have been shaped by the sea for centuries. Here, the Maldivian spirit drifts in every breeze, carrying the scent of salt and frangipani, along with traces of ancient traditions and the delicate harmony between community and nature. Once a bustling hub for fisherme...
Rocco Forte Hotels •

A Set-Jetting Journey for Families

A spellbinding tale in London
London has long been the stage for unforgettable adventures. Begin at King’s Cross Station, where Platform 9¾ and its disappearing luggage trolley invite fans into the wizarding world of Harry Potter.
Continue to Paddington Station, where a small bear from darkest Peru arrived with a suitcase and a love for marmalade sandwiches. Follow his path to Portobello Road, a kaleidoscope of antique stalls and pastel-coloured shopfronts that still echo Paddington’s wide-eyed...

From shore to shore

In every corner of the world, Jumeirah’s vision of home continually evolves, crafted to capture each locale’s unique spirit and the precious moments shared within. Whether along Dubai’s sweeping coastline or set within Bali’s lush junglescape, each space is reimagined to draw guests into its surroundings, inspiring moments of discovery. Step into settings where time slows, stories unfold, and memories take root.
 
A place within

Beside the waters of the Arabian Gulf, Madinat Jumeirah’s oasis o...
Rocco Forte Hotels •

Family Scavenger Hunts Across Edinburgh, Brussels and Florence

For a warmer retreat, Florence offers a Percy Jackson-themed scavenger hunt, perfect for fans of Rick Riordan’s series. Percy, a modern demi-god and son of Poseidon, navigates a world of ancient mythology - just like Florence, where Renaissance art and history are deeply rooted in tales of gods and heroes. Starting at Hotel Savoy, just steps from the majestic Duomo, families will journey through ancient streets, solving riddles that bring Greek mythology to life. As you explore, landmarks like t...

Embrace the spirit of the season

The festive season brings with it a sense of generosity and warmth, imbued with the individual nuances of our hotels and their heritage. From the crystalline waters of the Maldives to the twinkling avenues of London, each destination offers an experience woven into its surroundings. Here, moments are crafted to invite calm, reflection, and connection. It’s a time to step away from the rush and share in meaningful experiences with those closest to you. Wherever your journey leads, Jumeirah create...

Follow the winter sun

As we welcome winter across Europe, a special yearning for sunlit escapes to far-flung shores arises. Here, warmth, joy, and togetherness shape cherished memories. Seek solace on the glittering coasts of Jumeirah’s enchanting destinations, where life’s shared moments are celebrated, and each detail is thoughtfully crafted in beautiful surroundings.
 
Dubai: celebrations along the coast
 
Dubai, with its striking skyline, pristine beaches, and year-round warmth, beckons as a playground where adve...

Beyond the chef’s table

In a hidden room, anticipation builds as the lights dim and mesmerising visuals ripple across the table, walls, and ceiling, while live performances draw you deeper into the moment. It’s a dining experience that awakens every sense, immersing you in a world far beyond the plate.
 
At the heart of this culinary journey is Chef Andrea Brugnetti, whose Italian roots and reverence for the sea inspire every dish he creates. Growing up close to the Mediterranean shores, his passion for vibrant, fresh...
Jumeirah •

Journeying through taste and adventure with Jumeirah

At Jumeirah, each day unfolds in new and unexpected ways, where the rhythm of life flows through sun-dappled shores, hidden coves, and quiet moments of discovery. Whether you’re exploring untamed landscapes or simply enjoying letting time melt away by the sea, each experience finds its perfect close around the table. Here, the day’s adventures are shared, stories come to life, and connections deepen over dishes that reflect the essence of each destination. From coastal wanderings to romantic ret...
Jumeirah •

Meet the Chef: The artistry of food

At Jumeirah, food is more than just a meal - it’s a quiet moment of connection, a gateway to cherished memories. Our chefs embrace this philosophy, crafting dishes that stir emotions and transport you to faraway places. Whether it’s a leisurely Mediterranean bite by the water’s edge or a Michelin-starred experience high above the city, every meal promises to nourish both the body and the heart.
Understanding the special bond food creates, Jumeirah has introduced an exclusive ‘Meet the Chef’ expe...
Rocco Forte Hotels •

Winter Wellness Weekend

As winter draws near, Europe’s cities take on an intimate charm, with quieter streets, crisp air, and a subtle hum of excitement as the festive season approaches. With cooler weather comes the perfect time to prioritise self-care. After exploring historic sights and bustling neighbourhoods, find solace in the warmth of our hotels and their serene spas – the perfect spot for a restorative weekend away.
A pre-Christmas getaway to Mayfair brings frost-kissed mornings, bundled-up walks through nearb...
Jumeirah •

The fascinating details of Talise Ottoman Spa

Resting on the pristine shores of Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray brings the grandeur of ancient Istanbul to life. Inspired by the majestic palaces of the Ottoman Empire, this resort dazzles with its exquisite, award-winning Talise Ottoman Spa - the largest in the Middle East.
 
Here are five captivating reasons why Talise Ottoman Spa is the ultimate wellness destination:

A blue ‘watching eye’ greets you as you approach the main entrance of the hotel and spa. This welcoming...
Rocco Forte Hotels •

Touring Brussels’ best chocolate shops

Chocolate in Brussels is more than a treat; it’s a tradition, an artform, and a reflection of the city’s heritage. From the steps of Hotel Amigo, we guide you through cobblestone streets, where you’ll discover a mix of master chocolatiers, rising stars, and guardians of Belgian’s sweetest tradition. Discover a different side to chocolate,  in the city that perfected it.
Your journey begins at Neuhaus in the historic Galerie de la Reine, only a 4-minute walk from the hotel. Stepping inside, you’r...
Jumeirah •

Restaurants in Europe: Top 3 European Dining Experiences

As the joys of summer stretch out before you, join us on a gastronomic journey across Europe. From Capri’s sun-drenched cliffs and Mallorca’s sugary shores, to the sophisticated streets of Knightsbridge, each destination promises a unique dining experience. While away leisurely summer days with inspiring flavours in beautiful settings.
 

Capri in summer is a fever dream: rugged cliffs rise from azure waters, coloured bougainvillaea cascades over whitewashed walls, and cobblestone paths wind thr...
Jumeirah •

Calm in the city

Cities often pulse with a frenetic energy, and Dubai is no exception. Here, towering skyscrapers dominate the skyline, and the daily hustle creates a dynamic rhythm. While many seek an escape for relaxation, why not enjoy both? Jumeirah Living World Trade Centre Residences offers a serene space amidst Dubai’s vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy the city’s finest restaurants, shops, and theatres from a place that fosters a harmonious balance of well-being and social experiences. Drawing inspiration from th...
Rocco Forte Hotels •

Beyond the castle: Edinburgh’s seaside getaways

Edinburgh is famed for its storied past, hearty food, and thrumming cultural scene. From Edinburgh Castle to the lively Princes Street where The Balmoral has stood for over a century, it’s no surprise that the city’s coastal charm is often overlooked.
Yet, just a short journey from the city’s cobblestone lanes, Edinburgh’s sandy shores offer a serene, and salty, escape. Within just an hour’s drive from The Balmoral, discover our selection of Edinburgh’s finest beaches, and whittle away those lan...
Rocco Forte Hotels •

A Gelato Tour of Florence

The name Bernardo Buontalenti might not mean much to those outside of Florence, but it should. A prestigious Florentine architect and artist favoured by the Medici, he is also widely credited with inventing gelato. This frozen delight is now as synonymous with Italy as pizza and is deeply intertwined with Florence’s heritage.  Take a tour of the city’s most celebrated gelaterias, curated by the expert concierge team at Hotel Savoy. 
Wander Florence's cobbled pathways toward the first gelateria,...
The Pink Elephant •

Three Ways to Style Your Next Corporate Event

As the vibrant warmth of summer unfurls over London, it presents the perfect backdrop for corporate events that blend sophistication, connection, and relaxation. The Pink Elephant’s corporate package specialises in curating unique event experiences that foster camaraderie and celebrate team achievements in some of London’s most stunning settings. From elegant rooftop gatherings to serene park picnics, each event is meticulously styled to strengthen team bonds and enhance the corporate spirit....
The Pink Elephant •

Celebrating Women

Although we’d love to celebrate every woman we collaborate with, these standout individuals from our last corporate event represent just a glimpse into The Pink Elephant’s gifted network of women. Dive into Our Community page and you’ll discover a tapestry of partnerships, predominantly with women, alongside the dedicated women shaping The Pink Elephant brand from within. Spanning roles from textile designers and copywriters to our sustainability consultant, women infuse The Pink Elephant with c...
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