Boutique: January 2006

European Coast & Country

Mr & Mrs Smith

European Coast & Country is the third in a series of hugely popular hotel guides from Mr & Mrs Smith (a witty pseudonym that covers the brand's founders and anyone else who wants to write anonymous reviews).  Aimed at the switched-on urbanite, it showcases a definitive selection of stylish and sexy retreats in Europe's most appealing rural and seaside locations.  Chosen for their size, looks and location, the new recommendations include secret island retreats on Ibiza, Mallorca and in Greece, sleek designer hangouts by the cooler waters of Iceland and Portugal; Tuscan villas; secret Spanish hideaways; and wildly romantic boltholes in the rolling French and Italian countryside.  Mr & Mrs Smith combine their own reviews with those from other taste-makers such as Philip Treacy, Ilse Crawford, Nick Moran, Howard Marks and Susie Boyt.  Every purchase of a Mr & Mrs Smith book entitles the owner to join a unique membership scheme that allows users to book hotel rooms online and sometimes receive discounts and services, such as complimentary champagne on arrival and other VIP treats.