A glowing example of sustainable design, Britain’s longest bench was recently unveiled in Littlehampton, West Sussex. With a seating capacity of over 300 people (and up to 800 thanks to its open-ended design that allows for an extension at a later date), the 324m-long structure by design firm Studio Weave was inspired by local children’s ideas for a ‘friendship’ bench. It sinuously travels along the town’s promenade, meandering around lamp posts, and ducking into the ground. The bouncing effect of its twisting loops meanwhile creates seats and openings. Supported by a stainless steel frame, it’s made from thousands of reclaimed tropical hardwood slats arranged to express natural tone variations from pale blonds to pinks and browns. Largely funded by the Sea Change Programme, which aims to help the revival of UK’s seaside towns, a donation to its construction was also made by Gordon Roddick as a tribute to his late wife and Body Shop co-founder Anita, who started their company in this town situated at the mouth of the River Arun.
www.arun.gov.uk

For many of us, the perfect beach getaway involves sun, sand, sea and reggae playing in the background. Take the positive vibes a step further by checking into late music legend Bob Marley’s former summer retreat. Located in the Bahamas on Cable Beach, Marley Resort & Spa is still owned by his family. Its 16 suites bear names like Mellow Mood and One Love, while the Natural Mystic Spa features Asian treatments, hydrotherapy and traditional Caribbean rituals. Alternatively, pick up a souvenir from Marley Boutique, which stocks music, a high-end fashion line, Catch A Fire, designed by one of Marley’s daughters, and handicrafts by African, Jamaican and Bahamian artisans. You might even end up sitting down for dinner with Rita (Marley’s widow) at the next table, or catch his son Ziggy strumming on his guitar – the clan visits often for their own R&R.
marleyresort.com

If you’re planning a Hong Kong visit, a vivacious virtual lady is all set to show you the sights. Ask Ting Ting is an interactive electronic mobile device that introduces travellers to the best of the Pearl Of The Orient. With TV presenter Sarah Lian as the host, it’s available at premium Hong Kong hotels, such as Le Meridien Cyberport and CHI Residences, for a fee (varies with different hotels) – just ask your concierge for the service. Videos are presented in a lively format, with clips highlighting tourist spots and fun facts – from historic sites to hip hangouts. GPS-based maps offer point-to-point navigation, while addresses are presented in both English and Chinese, ensuring local taxi drivers recognise locations. Local emergency numbers are also preset for easy access.
asktingting.com

People often get home design ideas from their travels. New titles by Hip Hotels book series creator Herbert Ypma now let one get creative without having to leave home. Mexican Contemporary reflects the country’s design ethic, with ideas on how exposed adobe, rusted steel, and weathered timber can be recreated in other locales. Paris Objet Trouve meanwhile features the arty and eclectic objects found in the city’s flea markets. US$19.95 each.
thamesandhudson.com