Amazing Destinations Magazine Autumn 2021

BUMPER

DOUBLE

ISSUE

AUTUMN 2021 • AMAZINGTRAVELMAG.CO.UK

THE BRIT

LIST

Our favourite UK

country retreats

& hideaways

Plus

London’s finest

The capital’s very best hotels

American beauty

Road tripping across the USA

Journeys to

change your life

Your post-pandemic

bucket list

PRAGUE CITY GUIDE • 48 HOURS IN FLORENCE • HOLA HAVANA • BUDAPEST B&BS • IBIZA REVISITED

ROME IN 72 HOURS • QUIRKY ROMANTIC BREAKS • BARBADOS: PARADISE FOUND & MORE!

AUTUMN 2021

CONTENTS

8. 48 HOURS IN FLORENCE

12. AMERICAN BEAUTY

24. THE BRIT LIST

64. LONDON’S FINEST

128. PRAGUE CITY GUIDE

138. JOURNEYS TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE

148. THE CARIBBEAN

172. HOLA HAVANA

180. VIVA VARADERO

188. IBIZA REVISITED

196. ROME CITY GUIDE

204. BUDAPEST B&Bs

210. GOLDEN AGE OF TRAVEL

BUMPER

DOUBLE

ISSUE

Editor: Martin Mason

Assistant Editor: Holly Cannon

Feature Writers: Jess Hawkins, Dan Cannon

Sub Editor: John W Stammers

Social Editor: Julie Paice

Planning & Media Visits: Sophie Bailey

Photography: Flavio Liotto, Julie Paice, Adobe Stock,

iStockPhoto

Head of Production: Dave Allworthy

Artwork: Lewis Fox

Sales & Commercial Director: Matt Millbank

Amazing Destinations is published by Creative

Path Group Ltd.

First Floor, 101-135 Kings House, Brentwood,

Essex, CM14 4DR

info@amazingtravelmag.co.uk

www.amazingtravelmag.co.uk

ISSN: Amazing Destinations 1461-3261

Amazing Destinations is published by Creative Path Group Ltd. Copyright © First Floor, 101-135 Kings House, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 4DR. Published quarterly All rights reserved. Reproduction

in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All prices correct at the time of going to press but subject to change. The mail-order protection scheme does not cover items featured

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producing mills are EMAS registered and operate according to highest environmental and health and safety standards. The printed version of this magazine is fully recyclable.

Autumn 2021 3

EDITOR’S

NOTE

We have just come to the end of

the summer travel season - and it

has certainly been a busy one! The

predictions were spot on, even if the

timing was uncertain: Pent-up demand

for staycations post-pandemic would

lead to a surge, and we’re in the middle

of that upward trajectory, which shows

no signs of settling down. As we wait

for international restrictions to ease and

more countries around the globe to reopen

borders and welcome travellers, the

Brit List (page 24) celebrates our postlockdown

travels across the UK over the

past few months. They have been adventures of a gentle sort: a few

tastes of the great outdoors, some new destinations and experiences, all

chosen with those of you in mind who may still be getting your travel

bearings again.

Regular readers will know that during the first lockdown we lost our

beloved Spaniel Jack, a trusty companion on family trips for fifteen

years. Chip, an energetic and boisterous Cocker Spaniel joined the

family late last year and what a lucky pup he’s been. The new pooch

has travelled with us to some spectacular country retreats and incredible

walking breaks that have made having a new pet a real pleasure. I’m

sure this is echoed in homes across the country that have experienced

the mental health benefits that animals can have on our lives.

www.amazingtravelmag.co.uk

/amazingdestinationsmag

London has become home to more historic, luxury hotels per square

mile than any other city in the world and as the city emerges from its

quarantine, they have never been on better form. Across a whirlwind

Summer, our team visited dozens of venues to bring you our pick of the

best the capital has to offer (London’s Finest, page 64). I’m delighted

that this issue also includes its fair share of international destinations

from our overseas assignments, before and during the lockdown, as

restrictions dictated at the time. Europe (Florence, page 8; Rome,

page 196; Prague, page 128) and further afield (The Caribbean, page

148 and the USA, page 12) are featured to give you some long-range

ideas.

Making plans again will be a theme for this magazine during the rest

of the year and into next, as we cover the worldwide return to travel.

We know that this crisis is far from over and that the recovery will be

ragged and uneven. But the world is opening up rapidly, and it’s time

now to go forth and see what awaits us all.

Martin (& Chip)

Editor

To recieve a free copy of Amazing

Destinations, email your name,

address and email to:

subscribe@amazingtravelmag.co.uk

Autumn 2021 5

48 HOURS IN

FLORENCE

The birthplace of the Renaissance and the heart of Tuscany. Florence is a city full of

history, fantastic wine, great food, world-famous fashion, and a relaxed yet exciting energy

all its own. Although small, there is plenty to see and do and, if you’re only passing

through, luckily, you can see the highlights in a compact two days. Here are our options

for routes based on your non-negotiables in Florence, which we’ve organized based on

efficiency, vicinity of attractions, walking and visiting time.

AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION THERE ARE TRAVEL

RESTRICTIONS IN PLACE FOR VISITING THIS DESTINATION.

PLEASE CHECK THE LATEST GOVERNMENT GUIDELINES AT

WWW.GOV.UK/FOREIGN-TRAVEL-ADVICE

Written By Martin Mason

Photography: Julie Paice

Autumn 2021 8 Autumn 2021 9

48HRS

DAY 1

08:00 - Set your alarm to be up bright and early, and head

straight for Florence’s star attraction: Brunelleschi’s dome.

You can’t start the 463-step climb until it opens at half past,

but get in the queue at 8am and you’ll be one of the first in,

meaning you’ll be able to walk right to the top with relative

ease (later in the day you’ll

often have to queue up through the tiny passageways

inside). There is a ticket office on Piazza San Giovanni, but

save time and book yours before you leave home (it’s valid

for six days). Pause on the way up to admire the frescoes on

the inside of the dome, which depict the Last Judgement.

Once at the top, the city unfolds before you, a mass of

terracotta rooftops and monochrome churches.

10:00 - Back at ground level, pop inside the cathedral,

check out the stunning bronze doors of the

Baptistery, then head around the back to the museum,

where you’ll find a fantastic collection of statues, reliefs

and paintings from the medieval, baroque and Renaissance

periods.

12:00 - It’ll take you less than 15 minutes to amble to

the next stop: the Basilica di Santa Croce. This imposing

church dominates the Piazza di Santa Croce (the site of

the annual Calcio Storico) – find a bench and spend a few

minutes resting your legs and admiring its striking marble

façade. Inside, seek out the Bardi and Peruzzi chapels, both

of which are decorated with frescoes by Giotto, who also

painted the scenes inside the dome.

13:00 - Lunchtime! Wander down the Borgo Santa Croce

and onto the Via dei Neri and in five minutes or so you’ll

reach All’Antico Vinaio, famous for producing some of the

best panino in Florence. Five euros will buy you a giant

hunk of bread, stuffed full of delicious fillings – salami,

artichokes, cheeses, prosciutto… whatever you fancy. On

one side of the street is the takeaway outlet (expect queues);

on the other, an eat-in café. One panino is usually enough

to share, but go for a plastic glass of wine too – you’re in

Italy!

48HRS IN FLORENCE

art-filled halls; if you need a pick-me-up afterwards, there

are plenty of cafes lining the nearby Piazza della Signoria

where you can get a cold drink.

19:30 - As sunset approaches, there’s only one place to be:

Piazzale Michelangelo, one of our favourite places to take

photos in Florence. Crowds flock to this viewpoint each

evening to watch the sun sink over the Arno, bathing the

city in a golden light. You can walk up, but it’s a bit of a

hill, so if you’re not up to it you can catch the number 12 or

13 bus. There’s usually a lively atmosphere up here, with

live music and people toasting their trip with a glass of

Prosecco – why not pick up a bottle and some plastic glasses

on your way and join them?

21:00 - For dinner, wander back down the hill to the trendy

Oltrarno neighbourhood, where you’ll find plenty of

eateries and bars for post-dinner drinks.

DAY 2

09:00 - After breakfast, head across the Arno to the Pitti

Palace. This 15th-century palace is home to a collection of

fantastic museums and galleries, including the Silver

Museum (which displays the treasures of the Medici

family) and the colourful Costume Gallery. Explore the

interior, then head outside for a stroll around the adjoining

Boboli Gardens.

12:00 - Stroll up Via de’ Guicciardini to the famous Ponte

Vecchio. The first bridge to be built across the Arno, the

Ponte Vecchio was once lined with butchers’ shops;

nowadays, the little boutiques are high-end jewellers. Have

a nose at their glittering window displays as you cross.

13:00 - Fifteen minutes’ walk north will take you to the

Mercato Centrale, a great spot for lunch. Head up to the

first floor and you’ll find a gourmet food court, with stalls

selling delicious cheeses, pasta, pastries – and, of course,

wine. Just outside is San Lorenzo Market, famous for its

leather goods – ideal for a few souvenirs.

15:00 - Just east of the market is the Galleria dell

Accademia, another brilliant art gallery. If you’ve had your

fill of art, you’ve also got two lovely churches close by you

could pop into: Basilica di San Lorenzo and Basilica di

Santa Maria Novella. The latter sits in a green piazza that’s

a nice place to sit down with a gelato.

18:00 - Colle Bereto is one of our favourite aperitivo spots.

If the weather’s on your side, take a seat on the terrace

and order an Aperol spritz. The prices are steep, but they

include the delicious buffet inside load up your plate with

pasta salads, breads and antipasti and enjoy the atmosphere.

20:00 - Not many people realise, but the Palazzo Vecchio is

open until midnight. Pop in to admire its beautiful frescoes

and artworks without the daytime crowds. Last admission

to the tower is 8.30pm, so if you want to go up then make

sure you do that first.

21:30 - Time for your final dinner in Florence. Try

Ristorante Enoteco Pane e Vino, around 15 minutes’ walk

away across the river. It was Florence’s first wine bar and

boasts a cellar with over 1,000 bottles (closed on Sundays).

How we went: British Airways from London City Airport.

www.britishairways.co.uk

Where we stayed: The Westin Excelsior Florence, Piazza

Ognissanti, 3, 50123 Firenze, Italy.

www.westinflorence.com

14:30 - All fuelled up? Now’s the time to tackle the Uffizi.

Make sure you book your tickets before you go to avoid the

queues – you just need to collect them 15 minutes before

your allotted time. Spend a few hours exploring the

Autumn 2021 10

Autumn 2021 11

AMERICAN

BEAUTY

There’s no better way to see America’s vast, stunning landscape and explore its

rich history than driving into the heart of it. Here we’ve mapped four classic routes:

from NYC up into New York State; the Dakotas; through the magnificent scenery of

the south-west to LA; and a music tour of the Deep South...








DEEP SOUTH MUSIC TOUR

AMERICAN BEAUTY

Badlands geology and American History

1. Nashville, Tennessee, has great bars

for country and blues. See the Country

Music Hall of Fame and Museum

(countrymusichalloffame.org), and the

Ryman Auditorium (ryman.com) to

learn about the Grand Ole Opry. Nearby

Broadway has bars for real live music

till late.

2. Memphis – blues, gospel, country,

rock’n’roll, barbecue. Stay for Wild

Bill’s Juke Joint, Graceland and Sun

Studios, and on Sunday listen to the

Reverend Al Green lead the choir in Full

Gospel Tabernacle Church on Hale

Road.

3. Following Route 61 south you reach

the Mississippi Delta region. Stop for

dinner at Tunica – which has lots of

casinos – or opt for fried chicken or

creole catfish at the Blue and White

Diner (blueandwhiterestaurant.com) and

a ride on the Tunica Queen riverboat.

4. Clarksdale, Mississippi, for juke

joints, the Delta Blues Museum in the

old train station and a night at the Shack

Up Inn (shackupinn.com, from $75),

with boutique rooms in old sharecropper

shacks, at the Hopson Plantation, which

hosts live blues.

5. Dockery Farms (dockeryfarms.

org), where blues is said to have been

invented by cotton picker Charley Patton

in the early 1900s.

6. Lafayette, Louisiana, is one of

America’s greatest music towns, where

you can hear Cajun, Creole and zydeco

music in the dancehalls, or listen out for

“swamp pop” . The Blue Moon Saloon

and Guesthouse (bluemoonpresents.com,

$18 bunks, doubles from $75) has live

roots music on the back porch – local

bands often record live albums there.

7. Finally, go wild in New Orleans at the

dozens of jazz and blues clubs.

776 miles, 14 hours’ driving, one week

minimum


New York State and Niagra

1. First spend a few days in New York

City, exploring Brooklyn, Williamsburg

and the galleries of Manhattan.

AMERICAN BEAUTY

SCENES AND SERENITY

2. Montauk, on the east of Long Island,

has become a favourite hangout of

celebs, with trendy bars, restaurants

and places to stay (in summer, try the

Ruschmeyers, (ruschmeyers.com), which

is a bit like a summer camp for adults).

1,305 miles, 26 hours of driving, 2½-3

weeks minimum

3. Woodstock (woodstockny.org) has

been an artists’ colony since 1902, so

spend a day touring the galleries.

4. The Catskills (visitthecatskills.com)

are great for hiking in summer, or skiing

and snowshoeing in winter – try the

town of Hunter for both.

5. Beautiful in autumn (until mid-

October), the Adirondacks mountains

are full of forests, micro-breweries

and bistros; in summer there’s the

vintage-style 56 Auto Drive-in Theater

(jscinemas.com/56auto).

6. Lake Ontario – there’s a 518-mile

Great Lakes Seaway Trail (seawaytrail.

com) along its southern rim, but

highlights are Niagara Falls in the west

and the Thousand Island Park in the east.

7 & 8. The Finger Lakes region

(fingerlakes.org) near Ithaca has

wonderful vineyards, Amish farms (you

might have to brake for the haywagons),

craft markets and long blue glacier lakes.

9. Return to New York City.

Autumn 2021 16

AMERICAN BEAUTY

NORTH AND SOUTH DAKOTA

978 miles, 20 hours’ driving, two weeks

minimum

Badlands Geology and

American History

1. Fly into and out of Rapid City

(with Delta via Minneapolis from

Heathrow, around £500). Hiring an

RV could be a good idea for this road

trip through remote areas with little

accommodation, see visitrapidcity.com/

planyourtrip/rentalvehicles.

2. South Dakota’s Badlands National

Park is a vast rocky landscape of ridges,

layered rock, fossils, towers and ravines.

Make a stop at Wall Drug (walldrug.

com), a 1930s store and attraction which

sells sheriffs’ badges and cowboy boots.

3. Then at Pierre (don’t miss the State

Capitol Building and Cultural Heritage

Centre), at the south of Lake Oahe, get

on the Native American Scenic Byway,

through Lakota, Dakota and Nakota

nations.

4. The Lower Brule Sioux Tribe

(lowerbrulesiouxtribe.com) welcomes

to the reservation visitors who want to

learn about their culture and offers many

tours.

5. The byway passes through Standing

Rock reservation (standingrock.org) for

monuments, Sitting Bull’s burial ground,

and places to stay. Its traditional annual

powwow is open to visitors.

6. Visit North Dakota’s cowboy town,

Medora, to stay at the historic 1884

Rough Riders Hotel (medora.com/roughriders,

from $135) and try the Pitchfork

Steak Fondue for steak threaded onto a

pitchfork and grilled.

7. North Dakota’s badlands have

hilly terrain, red rocks and petrified

woods. Hire a log cabin and explore on

horseback with Badlands Trail Rides

(badlandstrailrides.com).

8. In Black Hills National Forest,

Custer state park (custerstatepark.info)

covers 71,000 acres of prairie, pine,

granite, bison and bighorn sheep. Jewel

Cave and Wind Cave are worth a stop.

9 & 10. After visiting Mount

Rushmore, see the Native American

equivalent, the Crazy Horse Memorial

(crazyhorsememorial.org), which will be

the largest mountain carving in the world

when finished, and the Indian Museum

of North America.

11. Return to Rapid City.


AMERICAN BEAUTY

Weird and Wonderful

1. Fly into Albuquerque, good for

buying jewellery and art, and full

of gorgeous B&Bs with palm trees,

sun terraces overlooking the desert

and Native American folk art and

blankets. See bedandbreakfast.com/

new-mexico for a list. Desert Harbour is

off-grid, simply stylish, with outdoor fire

pits and massages, for $145 a night.

2. State capital Santa Fe is a quirky

former mining town with bizarre

museums and diners.

3. Hot springs are a big deal in New

Mexico. Many have spa resorts built

around them, but for a list of natural

ones, such as those in the Jemez

mountains, see newmexico.org/things-todo/health-wellness.

4. Farmington is a good base for visiting

Native American tribes (Navajo, Jicarilla

Apache, Southern Ute, Ute Mountain

Ute and Hopi, see farmingtonnm.org);

the Aztec Ruins national monument has

structures built by the Aztecs 900 years

ago. Nearby, Kokopelli’s Cave B&B

(bbonline.com/united-states/newmexico/farmington/kokopelli,

from

$260) is carved out of the sandstone cliff

NEW MEXICO TO LA

and has one bedroom – plus a hot tub.

5. Grand Staircase-Escalante national

monument (utah.com/nationalsites/

grand_staircase) just over the border

in Utah is 1.7m acres of multicoloured

rocks and canyons.

6. Dare to hike Zion national park’s (nps.

gov/zion) terrifying Angels Landing, and

you’ll need a margarita in the cool sunny

town of Springdale nearby.

7. Bryce Canyon’s (nps.gov/brca/index)

incredible “hoodoo” rock formations are

bewitching.

8 & 9. Before visiting the Grand

Canyon stay in a cabin among

ponderosa pines near Flagstaff, Arizona

(see flagstaffarizona.org/staying_

bed-breakfast for a list), and visit

the Wupatki National Monument – an

important tribal crossroads for thousands

of years – the Museum of Northern

Arizona for Native American artefacts,

and the Lowell Observatory.

10. Kingman (gokingman.com) is known

as the “heart of historic route 66”,

with a museum dedicated to the route.

You could detour into Mojave national

preservefrom here.

11. Joshua Tree national park to stretch

your legs, and a stop in Twentynine

Palms, a cool quirky town. The 29 Palms

Inn (29palmsinn.com, from $95) has a

pool and 1930s cabins.

12. Palm Springs is the sleepy kitsch

nostalgic desert city of your dreams,

with amazing places to stay such as

the new Saguaro (jdvhotels.com, from

$170) and a great midcentury modern

architecture tour by Robert Imber

(palmspringsmoderntours.com). On

20-21 and 27-28 October the Highway

62 Art Tours (hwy62arttours.com) opens

studios of 100 local artists.

13. Los Angeles – eat, shop and star-spot

for as long as you have left.

1,583 miles, 30 hours’ driving, 2½ weeks

minimum

The Grand Canyon: The only one of the Seven Natural

Wonders of the World to be located in North America

Autumn 2021 22

Autumn 2021 23

THE

BRIT LIST

Britain has hundreds of characterful country retreats and staycation hideaways,

and today there’s a bewildering amount to choose from. Here we present the cream

of the crop for your glorious post-summer short break.

INVERLOCHY CASTLE

FRITTON LAKE

...page 26

...page 30

GARA ROCK

RAGDALE HALL

...page 34

...page 36

THE PRIORY

BEAUMONT ESTATE

THE PIG AT BRIDGE PLACE

BARNETT HILL HOTEL

RICHMOND HILL HOTEL

PENNYHILL PARK

...page 40

...page 42

...page 46

...page 48

...page 50

...page 52

Written By Martin Mason and Holly Cannon

Compiled by: John W Stammers

Planning: Sophie Bailey



HEAD

FOR THE

HIGHLANDS

THE BRIT LIST

INVERLOCHY CASTLE

FORT WILLIAM, SCOTLAND

In 1873 curiosity led Queen Victoria to forgo her usual holiday home at Balmoral, Scotland and instead

spend a week at Inverlochy Castle near Fort William. “I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot” she

noted in her diary and this is as true today as it was then.

The five-Star Inverlochy Castle Hotel is truly a very special place;

an imposing loch side baronial castle near Fort William and in the

foothills of the highest peak in the UK, Ben Nevis.

The Journey

Keen to embrace a sense of adventure, we took the Caledonian

Sleeper train from London Euston to Fort William. A sleeper train

to Scotland has been running from London since the 1850s, although

the service has been updated a few times since then – with

a major update coming into service in 2019/2020. It’s been running

in its current name, the Caledonian Sleeper, since 1996, and in

2016, Lonely Planet named the journey from London Euston to

Fort William the best sleeper train journey in the world. Our trains

are far more luxurious, with upgraded sleeper seats as well as

en-suite sleeper rooms and even a double en-suite room option for

couples. There are also fully accessible rooms, as well as Wi-Fi

throughout. Our Club Room offered a more hotel-like experience

and gave us access to the station lounges at departure and arrival

stations, as well as a hot continental breakfast, which you can

enjoy either in your room or in the Club Car.

The Hotel

Tucked between dense forestry and a serene loch, Inverlochy

Castle Hotel offers both privacy and beauty. For added convenience,

Inverlochy Castle Hotel also offers helicopter, chauffeur,

and vehicle rental services and transfers. The stone castle looks

and feels like a fairy-tale setting. Plus, the lavish and ornate decor

inside exudes elegance and class. This 19th-century castle boasts

the refinement and history you expect and the comfort and convenience

you deserve.

Teeming with incredible history and breath-taking

scenery, Scotland is the perfect destination for your next

getaway. With its beautiful lochs and luscious forests,

there are few locations in the world quite so relaxing.

Within this picture of tranquillity lies Inverlochy Castle

Hotel, one of Scotland’s most luxurious and elegant

hotels. Martin Mason packed his chunky sweater and

headed up to the highlands to discover a true gem.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

www.inverlochycastlehotel.com

Autumn 2021 26

The castle grounds and the entire estate, all 42,000 acres of it

are wonderful to explore. You can take a pleasant stroll through

the gardens or head off on more strenuous hikes around forests,

rivers, mountains and lochs, and all without leaving the estate.

Service throughout the hotel is old school and seamless, if you

cannot think what you want, a gentle suggestion will be provided.

Maybe tea in the drawing-room indoors or outdoors, try

falconry or skeet shooting.

Autumn 2021 27

Rooms

The 17 well-appointed rooms and Gate Lodge, each with a unique

design to ensure that your stay is personalised, blend the old

and new seamlessly with gorgeously plump beds, breath-taking

views, reassuringly heavy drapery, and invitingly chic and modern

bathrooms. Our suite was impeccable with the best of everything

including Penhaligon toiletries and embroidered bed linen.

THE BRIT LIST

Food

Our dinner began with a wee dram (a shot of scotch whisky) by

the fire in the Great Hall, an event in itself then off to the main

event. No stay at Inverlochy Castle Hotel is complete without

dining at the award-winning Michel Roux Jr at Inverlochy Castle

restaurant. All three unique dining rooms are decorated with

elaborate furniture donated to the Castle by the King of Norway,

creating an elegant dining experience that cannot be missed. The

food here is seriously ambitious and elaborate inspired by both

British and French cuisine, but with a distinctly Highland accent.

Excellent wine matches and expert service completed a wonderful

experience. Another highlight was the sumptuous breakfast we had

delivered to our room, a plentiful full Scottish breakfast and – that

view. What a way to start the morning.•

“

Our verdict

”

With its incredible scenery, luxurious rooms, and world-renowned

dining experience, a stay at Inverlochy Castle Hotel

is an experience that should not be missed. Queen Victoria

was right there’s simply nowhere better for you to explore

the Scottish Highlands, and the most breath-taking scenery

in Britain.

How to book

Caledonian Sleeper: sleeper.scot

Inverlochy castle: inverlochycastlehotel.com

A big thanks to everyone who made

this trip possible:

Visit Scotland, Vicky Mcquillan and Kerry Watson at ICMI

and Julie Brander at Weber Shandwick.

Autumn 2021 28

THE BRIT LIST

FRITTON LAKE

GREAT YARMOUTH, NORLFOLK

Surrounded by 1,000 acres of unspoilt woodland and lush meadows, Fritton Lake is an incredible nature

retreat that sits on the Norfolk/Suffolk border and is directly contributing to one of Britain’s pioneering

rewilding projects.

The holiday club is part of the Somerleyton Country Estate and

situated 25 minutes from Lowestoft and 45 minutes from Norwich

by car. If you’re looking for a nearby train station, Haddiscoe is a

10-minute drive away. Once you’ve found your way to this picturesque

lake, you won’t be short of things to do.

Aside from the beautiful two-mile-long natural lake that sits at the

club’s heart, there are a wide array of leisure activities on offer.

You can relax in the 22-metre heated swimming pool or their new

floating sauna. For the kids, you’ll find invigorating and thrilling

adventure play areas - the young ones have a smaller heated pool

and bouncy pillow to conquer, whilst the big kids have trees to

whizz through on zip wire. Then there’s the broad range of sporting

activities to participate in, from canoeing, rowing and paddleboarding

to tennis, volleyball and instructor-led yoga. With so

much to do, you won’t be straying far from this idyllic spot.

Rooms

You can choose to stay in the private woodland cabins that blend

with the woodlands that surround them, each equipped with kingsize

beds, private bathrooms, wood-burning stoves and wood-fired

hot tubs. Our room was the Herringfleet Boathouse based in the

luxury Clubhouse, a converted 16th-century manor house. Rooms

here retain their heritage from the authentic wooden floorboards

and fireplaces to the exposed beams and brickwork, whilst featuring

modern comforts like spacious bathrooms and comfortably

large beds. Alternatively, if you’re staying as a family, you might

prefer the traditional farm cottages that are circled by the stunning

meadows and woodland.

Food

With small producers, fishermen and farmers on Fritton Lake’s

doorstep, all their food is locally sourced to cut down delivery

miles and support small businesses to adhere to their values of sustainability.

Meals are served at the Clubhouse, a relaxed environment

with warm and friendly service. If like us, you’re visiting on

a warm summer day, you can enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace

or in the garden with the dragonflies dancing between the tables. It

is an absolute delight. Breakfast includes a limited range of bowls

and toasts, whilst the lunch and dinner menus offer more variety

with pizzas, sandwiches, salads and club specials.•


www.frittonlake.co.uk

Autumn 2021 30

“Our verdict

For any water lovers and fans of outdoorsy fun, this is an idyllic

nature retreat with picturesque woodlands and meadows to

explore. The combination of lovely food, gorgeous views and

blissful pools makes for an enjoyable staycation.

Autumn 2021 31

THE BRIT LIST

GARA ROCK HOTEL

SALCOME, DEVON

Surrounded by countryside, sea views and sheep, this hotel perched atop a cliff is a great escape from

the everyday. Gara Rock is a blissfully secluded spot in South Devon with a wealth of leisure and

relaxation options. To discover Gara Rock you will need to navigate a network of little lanes through

rural Devon, but good things come to those who wait. We promise.

Whether you want to re-energise in the Wild Rock Spa, relax in

the bubbling Jacuzzi and soak up the splendid views, swim in the

outdoor pool that overlooks the sea, or unwind with a whole host

of movies in the Cinema Room, the hotel offers plenty to do all

under one roof.

There’s plenty of options if you want to venture out, too. Sample

wine and cheese at the Sharpham Vineyard, take a stroll through

the Dartmoor National Park or visit the Paignton Zoo. If you love

walks, there are several local routes you can take. If you want to

get active there’s paddleboarding and golf nearby. And if you’re

looking for family fun days there’s the Woodlands Adventure Park,

Miniature Pony Centre and Prehistoric Caves your children will

adore.

Rooms

There’s a huge range of rooms on offer at Gara Rock, from the

romantic Secret Suite where you’ll have a few sheep for company,

the homely Signal House - perfect for large groups - where

you can stargaze from the hot tub, or there’s the Penthouse with

an extraordinary open plan living space and jaw-dropping sea

views. Our one-bedroom suite didn’t disappoint with its rustic and

cosy aesthetic, velvet cushions, plush throws, tiled bathroom and

fabulous power shower. Never letting you forget the awe-inspiring

views, most suites come with a generously sized balcony, terrace

or garden.

Food

The Restaurant, open all year round and popular, is worth booking

in advance. Seasonal dishes feature ingredients sourced from

local producers and the chef’s very own kitchen garden; whether

from the land or sea, you can be sure whatever you order will be

fresh. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails are all on offer here. If

you’d prefer a light bite or just relax with a drink, the Lounge Bar

is a comfy place to enjoy a cuppa or sip from their vast range of

spirits, beers, homemade cordials, and more - the Gara Rock Gin is

a popular choice! Or if you’re on a walk or prefer to sit in the sun

with a snack and drink, the ‘Garavan’ has got you covered.•

110


www.gararock.com

Autumn 2021 34

“Our verdict

Isolation has got a bad rep over the past 18 months, but the

gorgeous views and vast number of opportunities to unwind

will have you falling in love with this secluded spot. You’ll be

so glad you got away from the world for a while.

Autumn 2021 35

THE BRIT LIST

RAGDALE HALL SPA,

LEICESTERSHIRE

This secluded 13-acre rural Victorian country house estate has exceeded guest expectations for

over 40 years, providing serene lounges and rejuvenating spa treatments with six different

pools all under one roof.

Situated off the A46, it’s just a 25-minute drive away from Leicester

and only 20 minutes to Loughborough. You’ll find the nearest

train station in Melton Mowbray, 15 minutes from the spa by car.

Whilst there are worthwhile attractions within a half-hour’s drive

of Ragdale Hall, such as the National Space Centre, you’ll most

likely be too busy maximising the resort’s

relaxation facilities.

Boasting six different pools, the Thermal Spa features 12 luxurious

and unique heat and water experiences that you won’t get enough

of. Especially the Rooftop Infinity Pool, which combines awe-inspiring

countryside views with water heated to 35°C and massaging

jets, is so unique you won’t soon forget it. With so much on

offer, it really is like a playground for adults. Our overnight reviver

package included a 50-minute Blissful Face & Back Therapy and

we also indulged in extra facial and pedicure treatments treatments,

all of which were first class. These Spa experiences have

the power to be extremely healing, however, as always, health

and safety is the first priority and increased hygiene protocols

at Ragdale Hall in the wake of Covid-19 have been impeccably

implemented.

Rooms

Ragdale Hall has a broad range of rooms available, all stylishly

decorated and several featuring beautiful floral patterns for the furniture.

Our bedroom was large with a spacious bathroom. There’s

plenty of room to relax, but you’ll spend most of your

time chilling on a recliner in the spa. However you prefer to

get your respite, Ragdale Hall has plenty of relaxation rooms to

choose from.

Food

The chefs - where possible - source all their ingredients from local

businesses, bringing you first-class food whilst helping the environment.

The Dining Room offered a range of options for breakfast,

lunch and dinner. The menu combined salads and vegetarian

dishes alongside meat and fish varieties, catering to every palette.

We couldn’t fault the speedy service or the quality of food. You’ll

find refreshing smoothies and herbal teas as well as a delicious

range of light snacks and cakes in both the Verandah Bar and

Garden Room. You also must try the expertly-crafted cocktails or

mocktails in their brand new Twilight Bar, so good we stayed for

more than a couple.•


www.ragdalehall.co.uk or call 01664 433000

“Our verdict

Ragdale Hall is the perfect getaway if you’re looking for

serene solitude and relaxing pools heated to blissfulness. The

stunning countryside views complement the spa treatments

and meal varieties. Whether with friends or with family, the

spacious estate offers a wealth of relaxation options.


THE BRIT LIST

THE PRIORY

WAREHAM, DORSET

The old-world glamour and charm of this former 16th-century priory with gardens sloping down to the

River Frome are an absolute delight. Martin Mason visited this quintessentially English country gem

in the historic market town of Wareham.

Enjoying an idyllic location on the banks of the River Frome in

Wareham, The Priory Hotel is set in a beautiful heritage building,

with a history stretching back to the 16th century. Lovingly and

painstakingly restored, it offers luxurious boutique accommodation,

fine food and tailored services in a wonderful riverside

setting.

Across four acres of immaculately maintained gardens, this

independently owned country house hotel is ideally placed for

exploring Dorset. Wareham itself is steeped in history with Corfe

Castle a mere 10 minutes drive away. There are plenty of cream

teas cafés and historic pubs within easy distance. Lulworth Cove,

Durdle Door and the beaches at Studland are also nearby and

worth visiting.

Rooms

The rooms vary in style but all deliver on luxurious quality.

We stayed in a boathouse suite at the river’s edge which offered

seclusion and privacy from the main property. The suite had

French doors which opened onto a fabulous river view terrace with

wood-beamed character features and wrought iron table and chairs.

A wonderful location to sip a drink, soak up the sun and watch

the boats chug past. All rooms and suites feature luxury towelling

bathrobes; complimentary Wi-Fi; a flat-screen TV and complimentary

toiletries.

Food

The Priory has a fine dining restaurant, where guests can enjoy

classical French and English cuisine. Head chef Stephan Guinebault’s

menu maintains the high standards with locally sourced,

season and delicious produce. Covid protocols were expertly

managed with a head waiter greeting and escort into the Garden

Restaurant. Lunch can also be enjoyed in the Garden Room or

‘alfresco’ on the terrace in the warmer months. Special mention

goes to the full English breakfast which was one of the best we

have experienced recently and will set you up for a day exploring

the Dorset countryside.•


www.theprioryhotel.co.uk

Autumn 2021 40

“Our verdict

With its manicured lawns and riverside setting, The Priory

Wareham offers a wonderful Dorset escape. Sip champagne

on a sun-soaked terrace and discover the perfect English

weekend away with a little taste of France.

Autumn 2021 41

WONDERFUL

WINDSOR

Nestled in Old Windsor, the historic and unique De Vere Beaumont

Estate is set in 40 acres of stunning parkland. Martin Mason

discovered a hotel that Is an elaborate mix of old and new.

THE BRIT LIST

DE VERE BEAUMONT ESTATE

WINDSOR, BERKSHIRE

Set on a 40-acre estate the hotel is just a few miles from Windsor Castle and a 14-minute walk from

the historic site of Runnymede – the birthplace of English law. The Estate itself dates back to the

14th century, and includes lovely grounds and a 14th-century chapel.

Located close to the M25, M4 and M3, with Heathrow airport

just 15 minutes away by car. The nearest train station is Egham

which is a 5 minute drive away and its close to local attractions

including Legoland, Windsor Castle, Royal Ascot and

Thorpe Park.

This outstanding estate has undergone a huge refurbishment,

which has retained the historic features of the place, whilst bringing

in a contemporary style, meaning it has the charm, facilities

and technology for whatever you need. And with acres of outside

space for walking and beautiful grounds for relaxing, the De Vere

Beaumont Estate is simply a stunning venue.

Rooms

The Estate has a wide range of 420 rooms available, all stylishly

decorated with good amenities. We stayed in a Luxury Suite

in the White House which had open plan luxurious spaces, a

huge bedroom and expansive lounge area in which to relax. The

traditional decor reflects the heritage of the building, and it was

complete with roll-top bath, walk-in shower, fridge, luxury toiletries

& free Wi-Fi.

Food

Named after the year the hotel’s mansion house was re-designed

by influential architect Jason Gibbs, 1705 Restaurant and Bar

boast a menu of dishes inspired by great British class and relaxed

Italian classics - and we couldn’t wait to tuck in. Fresh and airy,

the lofty space mixes sumptuous sofas with contemporary brass

and leather accents, with the traditional feature ceiling taking

centre stage. It also offers guests a stylish space serving cocktails

created by on-site mixologists, rich jewel toned furniture, warm

lighting and a glossy bar top. l

“ ”

Our verdict

Situated in picturesque Old Windsor is the historic De Vere

Beaumont Estate. This magnificent venue incorporates a

stunning Ballroom, fabulous Restaurants, wonderful architecture

and modern refurbished bedrooms –

all set in spectacular and extensive grounds.


www.devere.co.uk/beaumont-estate

Book

www.devere.co.uk

The Marketplace offers

a variety of food options


THE BRIT LIST

THE PIG AT BRIDGE PLACE,

CANTERBURY

Playing host to Led Zeppelin in the ‘70s, THE PIG at Bridge Place is the rural hideaway with a rock-nroll

past, a rich history of renowned parties and gigs and is situated close to arty towns like Whitsable,

Margate, Deal and Sandwich.

Only three miles away from beautiful Canterbury - 15 minutes by

car - the historical city centre is within easy reach. Bekesbourne

Station is just two miles away from THE PIG and an estimated

56-minute journey by train from central London. Whilst the closest

airport is Gatwick, which takes around 70 minutes to get to by car.

Bridge itself is a historic Kentish village full of character, perfect

for scenic strolls. Whether pottering around the kitchen gardens or

exploring Kent’s hot spots, there’s plenty to do within the ‘Wine

Garden of England’ with The Pig as your perfect country base.

Rooms

With 29 available rooms, you’re spoilt for choice. The luxurious

main house has seven bedrooms, each with a rustic theme that

feel cosy whilst also spacious. The Coach House has 12 rooms

with similar vibes as well as two family-friendly lodges if you’re

bringing the kids. We stayed in Hideaway Suite two which had a

sitting room, large master bedroom, super-king four-poster bed

and a mezzanine bathroom. The walk-in monsoon shower and

free-standing bath were highlights.

Food

Like all Pig Hotels, the emphasis is on the food. The PIG’s commitment

to the ‘25-mile menu’ means that all their food is sourced

from local suppliers, which supports Kentish farms, orchards, vineyards,

etc. It also means you’re guaranteed the freshest fish, locally

brewed beers, homegrown fruits and vegetables, and England’s

most prestigious wines. The open-plan restaurant was just as rustic

and characterful as the rooms and offered a good range of meats,

fish and plant-based dishes. Everything we tried was delicious. But

you must also try the outdoor Garden Oven for wood-fired cooking

and tasty tipples.•


www.thepighotel.com/at-bridge-place

Autumn 2021 46

“Our verdict

An overall great experience that combines freshly

sourced cooking with beautiful rustic rooms and close

proximity to Kent’s most idyllic hot spots. It’s the perfect

retreat for scenic walks and anyone keen to explore

Kent’s rich history.

Autumn 2021 47

FIRST CLASS

COUNTRY

ESCAPE

THE BRIT LIST

BARNETT HILL, PART OF THE ALEXANDER

HOTELS COLLECTION, THE SURREY HILLS

As holidays abroad remain off the agenda - a staycation has never looked so good. This wonderful

country house hotel in the gorgeous Surrey Hills is the perfect getaway for a short break or

memorable family occasion.

We visited Barnett Hill to celebrate our daughter’s graduation

from the nearby University of Surrey, having seen her ceremony

cancelled, another casualty of the covid-19 pandemic restrictions.

The hotel, which blends history and modernity dates back

to 1905, the dream of Frank Cook, Grandson of renowned travel

agent Thomas Cook. Set just a five-minute drive from Guildford

in the heart of the Surrey Hills the National Trust area of Box

Hill, the destination offers plenty of walking and cycling routes

through lush forest and countryside, plus wonderful views.

Barnett Hill Hotel is an

elegant Queen Anne-style

mansion, nestled in the heart

of the Surrey Hills. Set in 26

acres of lovingly maintained

gardens and woodland, the

hotel offers breathtaking

views. Martin Mason

discovered the perfect place

to celebrate a very special

family event.


www.alexanderhotels.co.uk/barnett-hill

Rooms

Barnett Hill has reassuringly enhanced its cleaning and safety

measures with masks and hand sanitiser provided to guests on

check-in. Rooms are disinfected between each stay, clear social

distancing measures are in place, and cashless payment is in operation.

There’s a wide selection of rooms available and each is

individually and stylishly decorated. Our spacious and luxurious

suites were located at the top of an imposing staircase and had

stunning views over the beautiful gardens. They were equipped

with every mod con including huge beds with Egyptian cotton

sheets, tasteful yet unique furnishings, a large sofa, huge bath

and a rainfall shower to die for.

Food

Combining influence from classic dishes with innovative cooking

techniques and the freshest seasonal ingredients, The Oak

Room Restaurant offers award-winning dining with service to

match. Admire the beautiful oak panelling that adorns the walls,

the feature ceiling, and jaw-dropping views across the gardens.

Lunch, light bites and afternoon tea are also served but be sure to

make time for an alfresco drink in the 1905 bar, named after the

year the property was built. It has a great selection of wines and

spirits including the lavish new ‘Silent Pool’ Gin experience. •

“ ”

Our verdict

Barnett Hill is the perfect country retreat to recharge your

batteries. The location, architecture and stunning gardens

make it a perfect choice for celebrating and photographing

a special occasion. Covid protocols were subtle, yet effective

and staff were informed and always ready to help.

Book

The Marketplace offers

www.alexanderhotels.co.uk/Barnettt-hill a variety of food options


THE BRIT LIST

RICHMOND HILL HOTEL,

RICHMOND

Situated in a prime position overlooking the River Thames this Georgian hotel dates from 1726.

With the bustling shopping streets and cosy pub corners of Richmond on its doorstep, and

central London just a tube ride away.

The recently renovated Richmond Hill Hotel offers up the perfect

staycation for anyone looking to escape the city. There’s plenty to

do in Richmond itself: explore 2,500 acres of parkland with roaming

deer in London’s largest Royal Park, take a boat tour to Kew

Gardens or Hampton Court, hire a rowing boat or bicycle, and

enjoy shops, markets and walks galore. Nearby attractions include

Twickenham rugby ground and museum, Ham House and London

Wetland Centre.

Rooms

The hotel has two types of rooms, Georgian collection and Hill

collection. The Georgian collection has antique interiors and

reflects the history & heritage of the hotel, whereas the Hill collection

has a more modern approach to it with bright colours. Our

spacious and classy suite featured ultra-comfy super-king-sized

beds from Heal’s of London, goose down duvets, Nespresso machine,

and marble-tiled bathroom with heavenly walk-in

rain shower.

Food

Dinner at the award-winning AA Rosette, 144 On The Hill was the

highlight of our stay. The long wraparound bar spans the room and

is rather spectacular – worth going for just a drink. A lively atmosphere

was complemented by a wonderfully chilled Chapel Down

brut and the Wine list was surprisingly varied and reasonably

priced. From a well-balanced menu we chode the classic pairing

of scallops and steak which was delicious. Make sure you’re up

in time to have breakfast the next day, another high point. There’s

a good range of hot and cold options but our pancakes took some

beating.•


www.richmondhill-hotel.co.uk

Autumn 2021 50

“Our verdict

If you want a break from the usual rush-hour routine of city

life, then this 18th -century townhouse is a wonderful staycation

choice. A stay at the Richmond Hill hotel will leave you

feeling relaxed and rejuvenated after a weekend full of food,

walks and country air.

Autumn 2021 51

THE BRIT LIST

PENNYHILL PARK,

SURREY

Set on 123 acres of beautiful grounds, Pennyhill Park is a five-star hotel with a multi awardwinning

45,000 sq. ft. spa. It’s the ultimate spa staycation, perfect if you’re searching for a

tranquil spot to rejuvenate and recharge.

You’ll find the place between Ascot, Sunningdale and Wentworth

on the A30 London Road, 45 minutes from central London. The

nearest station is Bagshot if you’re coming by train, which is an

estimated 25 minutes by foot. Its location is a convenient spot if

you’re planning a trip to nearby attractions, such as the Savill Gardens,

Thorpe Park, Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park.

Although, we suspect you’ll spend most of your time relaxing in

Pennyhill Park’s divine spa. Considered a destination in its own

right, there are over 20 thermal and relaxation spaces to enjoy, superb

treatments, state-of-the-art gym equipment and fitness classes

on offer. When you see the idyllic interior and exterior spaces,

you’ll understand why Pennyhill Park is often booked for special

events and stunning weddings.

Rooms

With 124 rooms available, you’re spoilt for choice. Each one is

individually designed with different styles, so no two visits will be

alike. Whatever your choice, you can bank on luxurious furnishings,

beautifully patterned décor, and gorgeous bathrooms that

come with under-floor heating and rain shower. Some of the higher

end rooms and suites come with extras, like double baths or even

an eight-man Jacuzzi.

Food

The Hillfield restaurant and bar is open all day for breakfast, lunch

and dinner and offers a relaxed, fun feel to its menu that celebrates

the best of Surrey’s finest seasonal dishes. It’s perfect for couples,

friends, co-workers or families looking for a laidback meal. We

recommend booking in advance to guarantee a table. Also, Head

Chef, Lewis Russell, is overseeing a ‘Farm to Fork - Nose to

Tail’ kitchen philosophy, which is a commitment to working with

farmers who preserve and enhance the local landscape with high

welfare and sustainable ethics in mind. When it comes to drinks,

you can expect their signature Surrey Spritzers, Hillfield housemade

cordials, local beers and a wine list that includes the finest of

English and European producers.

Alternatively, head to the Lily Pond Terrace for outdoor drinks and

dining with splendid views. On the menu are woodfired flatbreads,

barbecue specials and ice creams. Not to mention a good range of

drinks to enjoy in the sun.•


www.exclusive.co.uk/pennyhill-park

Autumn 2021 52

“Our verdict

The ultimate spa retreat that boasts stunning indoor and

outdoor spaces, characterful rooms and the finest Surrey

dishes you can find. Pennyhill Park truly is a five-star experience.

Autumn 2021 53

Castell Coch: The unique nature of the

castle has seen it feature in many TV

shows including Doctor Who.

THE BRIT LIST

FIVEQUIRKY

ROMANTIC BREAKS IN THE UK

Want to whisk your loved one off on an autumn romantic break but not sure where to go? With so much

choice, it can be really difficult to select somewhere that’s both special and quirky.

1.CASTLE COCH WEST

USK LIGHTHOUSE

It’s no surprise that Castell Coch was said to be the model

for Disney‘s Sleeping Beauty Castle. With its pointy turrets

and elegant towers it wouldn’t look out of place with the

Chateaux of the Loire. In 1871 the 3rd Marquess of Bute had

the ruins of a much older castle removed and this fantasy

built, complete with gloriously ornate interior murals and

elaborate bespoke furnishings.

Set high above the village of Tongwynlais, to the north of

Cardiff in south Wales, it is an easy drive to the charming

West Usk Lighthouse for a very quirky stay. Book the lovely

waterbed room overlooking the River Severn and make sure

you have a long relaxing soak in the hot tub in the roof.

2.KIELDER WATER & POSH HUTS

NORTHUMBERLAND

With its pine-clad banks, vast expanse of water and many

shore-line paths, Kielder Water and Forest Park is ideal

for a get-away-from-it-all weekend. And in the heart of

Northumberland countryside, it was recently awarded

Gold Tier Dark Sky Park status by the International Dark

Skies Association (IDA) – the first in Britain.

Autumn 2021 54

You can visit the Kielder Observatory and view the heavens

through their powerful telescope – or gaze up at the myriad

of stars as you sip a glass of champagne outside your Posh

Hut in the village of Falstone. These luxurious designer

Shepherd’s Huts have all the comforts you could wish

for with a wood-burning stove for chilly days. And for a

special treat, you can even have a gourmet meal delivered

to your very door.

Autumn 2021 55

THE BRIT LIST

3.QUARRY BANK MILL &

WIZARD THATCH

If you want a bit of history and a gorgeous garden to

wander through, Quarry Bank Mill in Cheshire has more

than enough to keep you busy all day. Built in the late

18th century, this cotton mill has a huge water wheel and

fascinating collection of working machinery and historic

artefacts. The attractive garden above the River Bollin

has been lovingly restored with a Cave, Dipping Ponds

and terraced flower beds. Nearby Styal Village has pretty

cottages and replica shops from its industrial heyday.

Stay in fashionable Alderley Edge at the Wizards Thatch,

in your own magical suite crammed full of intriguing

objects and a wonderful four poster bed.

4.LAKE DISTRICT CRUISE &

RUM DOODLE B&B

The Lake District is regularly voted Britain’s favourite

romantic destination. There is no better way to see the

stunning scenery that has entranced artists, poets and

lovers for centuries than by taking a ferry round one of the

lakes. You can choose from dramatic Ullswater, beautiful

Derwenwater and England’s longest lake, Windermere.

And for something completely different, go to the Lakeland

Motor Museum in the picturesque Leven Valley.

If you choose Windermere for your romantic escape, stay

at Rum Doodle B&B in Windermere village – ask for one

of the vintage-styled and rather whimsical top rooms here.

5.RIEVAULX ABBEY &

FEVERSHAM ARMS

As you gaze up at vast vaulted windows you can almost

hear the old monks chanting in the dramatic ruins of

Rievaulx Abbey, on the edge of the North York Moors.

Nestling in a peaceful valley this medieval abbey is one

of the north’s most visited attractions, and you’ll find an

attractive terrace above with woodland sculptures and

splendid views across the Yorkshire countryside.

Only a couple of miles away, is the gorgeous Feversham

Arms in the attractive market town of Helmsley. In this

award-winning hotel treat yourselves to a Deluxe Suite,

delicious afternoon tea and dine on superb food with fine

wine. You can experience the ultimate in pampering at the

Verbena Spa here, soaking in the hot tub or swimming in

the heated pool.

Autumn 2021 56

TOP BRITISH

SEASIDE TOWNS

Britain has a wealth of seaside towns that are ideal destinations for an autumn day trip

or a short holiday. But with so many towns offering stunning beaches, historical attractions

and a variety of nightlife activities, it can be difficult to decide which of them to visit. To help

you decide, here are ten of the best.

Autumn 2021 59

BOURNEMOUTH

It’s a long-term favourite of UK travellers because of its

warm microclimate and miles of sandy beaches. With a

huge variety of shops, restaurants, bars and clubs, there’s

plenty to keep you occupied. As well as award-winning

gardens, there are also many tours that embrace the

stunning coastline scenery. There’s something here for all

the family. If you’re new to watersports, you could even

take surfing lessons.

THE BRIT LIST

BRIGHTON

It continues to be one of the most popular seaside resorts

in Britain, and it’s easy to see why. Less than an hour

from London by train, Brighton is crammed with things

to do. Apart from the excitement of the nightlife, with

plenty of clubs, bars and restaurants, it’s also perfect for

all the family. In the daytime, take a trip to its famous

Royal Pavilion, a must-see attraction. Built for the

Prince Regent, later King George IV, it’s one of the most

extravagant palaces you are likely to see in Britain.

NEWQUAY

Another terrific beach destination with an array of golden,

sandy beaches close to the town centre. Every summer

the beaches, watersports and beautiful scenery draw the

crowds to Newquay, making it one of the most popular

coastal destinations in Britain. With the Blue Reef

Aquarium, Holywell Bay Fun Park and Newquay Zoo all

in the area, it’s a fantastic seaside resort for children and

adults.

BLACKPOOL

There’s nowhere quite like Blackpool! Still one of the most

visited family holiday destinations in Britain, Blackpool

has lots of fun activities for the whole family. Take the

tram along the promenade past the multitude of shops,

restaurants and amusement arcades. Blackpool Tower and

Ballroom are now iconic British attractions and should

not be missed during your stay. And if you’re a fan of

amusement parks, you must visit the famous Blackpool

Pleasure Beach, the most visited theme park in Britain.

ST.IVES

If you prefer a quieter holiday destination, St. Ives in

Cornwall is more of a traditional seaside town with pretty

sea views that have inspired generations of artists. The

sheltered coves and sandy beaches attract sun-worshippers

and swimmers, and surfers congregate to ride the waves.

Opened in 1993, the Tate St. Ives art gallery is the place

to go for art-lovers, boasting an impressive collection of

classic and contemporary art from around the world.

Autumn 2021 60

THE BRIT LIST

WHITBY

It’s easy to see why people love Whitby, with its maze

of alleyways and narrow streets running down to the

quayside. This North Yorkshire town has been a port

for more than a thousand years. Captain James Cook

even learned his seafaring skills here. It was also the

inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula, with the dramatic

Whitby Abbey looming above the town. The Whitby

Gothic weekend is now one of the most popular Gothic

events in the world.

WEYMOUTH

With a delightful harbour, sandy beach and attractions

throughout the year, Weymouth remains one of Britain’s

most loved seaside towns. King George III was so

impressed, he bought Gloucester lodge on the seafront

for his holiday home. Events throughout the year include

the International Beach Kite Festival, Carnival Day,

volleyball and sailing championships, and motorcycle

rallies. Situated on the Jurassic Coast - a UNESCO World

Heritage Site - Weymouth is perfect for long walks along

the stunning coastline.

PENZANCE

Fast becoming known as the cultural centre of Cornwall,

Penzance is the ideal place for a relaxing break by the

sea. With a quaint harbour, stunning beaches, historic

architecture, art galleries, and many shops, restaurants and

bars, many view the town as the perfect English seaside

retreat. There’s enough to savour in Penzance alone, but it

would also be a great base from which to explore the rest

of Cornwall.

GREAT YARMOUTH

For a British family vacation, Great Yarmouth could be

the ideal choice. There is so much to see and do, with a

huge choice of places to eat, drink and shop. There are

miles of sandy beaches for those seeking a traditional

English beach experience, but there are also plenty of

secluded areas, if that’s more your style. With theme

parks, museums, theatres, casinos and racing tracks, there

are attractions to suit all tastes.

ST.ANDREWS

This lively Scottish university town is famous for its

golf courses, but there’s plenty here for all the family. St.

Andrews Botanic Gardens are internationally acclaimed

and have been called a ‘hidden gem’ of Scotland. With

a gorgeous beach, quaint little shops and tearooms, and

historical sites, it’s a perfect retreat from city life.

Autumn 2021 62

LONDON’S

FINEST

London is one of the greatest cities in the world, with fantastic luxury hotels to

match its reputation. If you want to live a life of luxury, read our comprehensive

guide to the finest high-end hotels the capital has to offer. It stands to reason that

there’s an abundance of properties in London to match those of any world-class

city The problem is there’s just so much choice. We’ve narrowed it down to the

cream of the crop, with tiptop service and luxury on tap, to go spoil yourself at.

Just for good measure, we’ve also included our recommendations for Afternoon

Tea, Rooftop Bars, Spas, Casinos and themed entertainment. What else could any

visitor to the Big Smoke want?

HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

HOTELS: BEST OF THE REST

AFTERNOON TEA

ROOFTOP BARS

SPAS

CASINOS

THEMED BARS

...page 64

...page 94

...page 104

...page 108

...page 112

...page 114

...page 116


Compiled by: John W Stammers


Photography: Julie Paice, Flavio Liotto


HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

JW MARRIOTT GROSVENOR

HOUSE, LONDON

Located in the glamorous Mayfair, this is one of the Capital’s most desirable addresses, with the

West End and Knightsbridge just a short stroll away. Grosvenor House is one of London’s most

established, but also its biggest five-star hotels.

Partly designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, and opened in 1929, it was

always intended to operate on a grand scale. Marriott International

completed a multi-million dollar renovation of the property in

2019 and the ground floor has been reimagined to complement the

alluring views of Hyde Park, with décor including butterfly wall

art and bespoke carpets, and redesigned guest rooms. The hotel’s

originally lobby has also been transformed, with floor-to-ceiling

glass connecting the lobby entrance to the property’s beautiful

Park Room, where Afternoon Tea is served.

Rooms

The recent restoration has added modern touches without losing

the iconic details of the building’s past. Each of the bedrooms

and suites is furnished with luxury fabrics and a subtle blend of

traditional and contemporary furnishings. All rooms have the

essential comforts including individual climate control, satellite

TV and high-speed internet. Our wonderful suite offered three

separate rooms, expensive marbles, fresh flowers, and a stunning

view overlooking Hyde Park. It represented the idyllic marriage

between the traditional and modern characters of the hotel.

Food

We dined in the hotel’s main restaurant, the upmarket JW Steakhouse

– with its impressive line-up of USDA-grade filets, New

York strips and bone-in Kansas City strips alongside various cuts

of Aberdeen Angus. While beef is the star, the menu also offers a

wide array of authentically prepared dishes including true Maryland-style

lump crab cakes, line-caught cod fish and chips and

pan-seared Scottish salmon. Don’t miss the Bourbon Bar which

offers over 300 rare, pre-prohibition, single barrel and small batch

Bourbons and knowledgeable bartenders to help choose your

tipple. The fine-dining option is Corrigan’s Mayfair, run by chef

Richard Corrigan and the hotel’s most recent eatery Ruya London

offers a taste of contemporary dishes from the Anatolian region.•


www.marriott.co.uk/hotels/travel/longh-jw-marriottgrosvenor-house-london

Autumn 2021 66

“Our verdict

This grande dame in Mayfair is majestic and refined with

a rich history, a visit to the Grosvenor House is an event in

itself. The recent multimillion refurbishment has added a

contemporary feel, which sits in harmony with the property’s

classic architecture. Food and drink options are all first

class, while the flawless service will leave you feeling like

royalty during your stay.

Autumn 2021 67

HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

NYX HOTELS BY LEONARDO

HOTELS LONDON, HOLBORN

Conveniently positioned on Southampton Row in the Midtown area between the City and London’s

West End, a stay at newly opened NYX Hotel is a relaxing, luxurious and electrifying experience

not to be missed.

You won’t have to walk far for easy connections to the rest of the

city. The hotel is just five minutes from Russell Square underground

station and under a half-hour from King’s Cross, Euston

and St. Pancras railway stations. More importantly, it’s within

strolling distance of highlight attractions like the British Museum

and lively Covent Garden and Soho areas.

The hotel also offers a number of rejuvenating leisure activities if

you wanted to stay on site. Luxury facilities include Rena Spa’s

tranquil treatments, the indoor 13m Greco-Roman swimming pool,

revitalising steam room, sauna, fully equipped gym, and more.

And their rigorous commitment to hygiene, including Ecolab

disinfectant products that are proven to be effective against Covid,

will reassure you that you’ll be safe every second of your stay.

Rooms

Offering 213 exuberant bedrooms and suites, all are outfitted with

modern amenities, including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs,

and ensuite bathrooms. The NYX Hotel also keeps you connected

with free Wi-Fi throughout the building - speedy for all your

business and leisure needs. Select one of the more spacious rooms,

like the Super Star or Heaven where we stayed, and you could get

additional features like a Smeg fridge and minibar with premium

refreshments, a pillow menu, comfy bathrobes, and more. It also

featured striking artwork, an example of the hotel’s collaboration

with local artists which aims to make a creative connection between

the hotel, the city and the guests.

Food

Add a little mid-town glamour to comfort dining and drinking with

NYX Hotel Eat, Drink & Play. From breakfast to dinner, a wide

array of American inspired dishes, local beers, exclusive cocktails

and extensive Tequila options make the NYX Hotel a perfect

place to indulge and socialise. Whether you’re looking for an early

morning caffeine hit and fuel food, a culture junkie in search of

a delicious midday dish, or a group of professionals wanting to

unwind with a few post-work G&Ts, the NYX Hotel is the place

to go. Everything we were served from mid-evening cocktails to

dinner and the generous breakfast buffet was very good.•


www.nyx-hotels.com/londonholborn

Autumn 2021 70

“Our verdict

looking people.

With close connections to the capital’s top attractions, luxury

rooms and a wide array of leisurely and social delights,

the NYY Hotel is one of the most high-spirited hotels you’ll

find in London. This is a smart-looking hotel for smart

Autumn 2021 71

HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

APEX TEMPLE COURT

HOTEL, LONDON

Amongst the cobblestoned streets in the heart of London, set in a quiet courtyard location

in Fleet Street, sits the Apex Temple Court Hotel. True to the Apex style, the hotel has an

understated elegance and offers comfortable luxury.

Previously barristers’ chambers in the legal heartland of

Inner Temple, these post-war buildings underwent a £50

million conversion to create this stunning 204-room hotel.

Just £6m were invested in the luxurious suites alone. We

recommend staying in one of these suites to see why - not a

penny was wasted.

Located just 10 minutes from Covent Garden and St. Paul’s

Cathedral, it’s the perfect spot for easy transport links into

and out of the West End. How will you know you’re in the

right place? The large green elephant outside the reception

entrance is unmissable. You’ll even become quite fond of

him during your stay. We certainly did!

Rooms

We stayed in the Grand Suite, an impressively large room

with its own lobby entrance. Its grandeur made it feel more

like an elegant city apartment than a hotel suite. The stylish

and contemporary living area had huge sofas, a kitchen area

containing a Nespresso Vertuo coffee machine and a huge

smart TV.

Food

A short stroll across the quaint courtyard sits the Amicable

Society of Lazy Ballerinas, the perfect place to escape for an

afternoon or evening drinking exciting wines, accompanied

by great food. It’s my favourite kind of eating, perfect for

picking and sipping with dishes that were flavoursome and

fresh.•


www.apexhotels.co.uk/destinations/london/apex-templecourt-hotel

“Our verdict

A great hotel in a quiet central location with an impressive

personal service and nice little touches that will make your

stay a delight from start to finish. For that extra special

occasion, we would 100% recommend one of Apex Temple

Court’s spectacular suites.


HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

SOUTH PLACE HOTEL,

LONDON

Sandwiched between Moorgate and Liverpool Street, where the City of London gives

way to the East End, the South Place Hotel plays harmonious host to both city slickers

and creative types.

The brainchild of D&D’s Des Gunewardena and David Loewi, this

80-room hotel boasts some serious design credentials. The interiors

come courtesy of Conran and Partners, and Allies and Morrison

are behind the sleek architecture. It was a Friday night when we

visited, so there was a vibrant buzz in the air at 3 South Place Bar

& Grill. Everything about its design is fabulous and reminds you

this is more than just a leisure stay, it’s an experience.

Rooms

The first thing that caught our eye upon entering our room was the

artwork, and it was an incredible first impression. Our studio was

very smart, spacious and well designed. The Bang & Olufsen, with

its parting curtains effect when switching on, really grips your attention,

as does the marble-floored bathroom with a host of quirky

features.

Food

The hotel features three restaurants, a rooftop Michelin-starred

seafood restaurant called Angler, the Secret Garden and its outdoor

terrace, and the South Place Chop House where we enjoyed our

evening. The menu is dedicated to seasonal and carefully sourced

cuts of meat and freshly caught fish, modernised with continental

flavours and seasoning. A testament to the combination of great

food, good wine and effortless service kept us in South Place Chop

House for well over two and a half hours.

Thanks to our bedroom’s blackout blinds and the general comfort

we experienced, we almost slept through breakfast. That would

have been a tragedy considering the grill served up the best Full

English we’d had in some time.•


www.southplacehotel.com

Autumn 2021 74

“Our verdict

A vibrant mix of trend setting Shoreditch and city exuberance,

South Place Hotel mixes comfort with cutting edge

technology and intelligent design for a first-class sleep

experience. With suave city city folk to your left, and dotcom

hipsters to your right, you can pick your perfect crowd, and

explore this diverse and effervescent part of East London.

Autumn 2021 75

HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

APEX CITY OF

LONDON HOTEL

Tucked away on Seething Lane in the historic pillar of London, just steps from Tower Hill is the sleek

and stylish Apex City of London Hotel. It’s a perfect modern hideaway for work or play, whether

you’re staying alone or as a group.

Situated within walking distance of Fenchurch Street station (two

minutes) and Tower Hill tube station (three minutes), the convenient

proximity makes exploring the capital easy. That’s assuming

you won’t be making the most of the hotel’s leisure facilities. You

can work up a sweat in the spacious 24/7 gym, free for all guests,

which features a range of Technogym equipment. Or perhaps

you’ll choose to kick back with a delicious breakfast and hot coffee

in the light-filled, open-plan Hart Street Lounge. With spacious

and relaxing workspaces, it’s an ideal spot for business professionals,

or is the perfect place to crack the spine of that novel you’ve

been wanting to read.

Rooms

Every room has been designed to ensure your stay is comfortable

and glamorous. The modern décor and chic interiors are complemented

by Elemis toiletries, dreamy king-sized beds, 46’’ TVs

and complimentary Wi-Fi. There is a range of different rooms on

offer, all of them containing rich furnishings befitting its four-star

status, but the spacious Deluxe and Superior Rooms are ideal for

long stays and relaxing breaks in the capital. Our Junior Suite had

a balcony that offered fabulous views of Tower Bridge. It was

well equipped with a large living space, bath and walk-in shower.

Some rooms even have extra special touches like Nespresso coffee

machines and fluffy bathrobes.

Food

The Lampery is oft considered one of the best restaurants near the

Tower of London, and its Instaworthy dishes make for a foodie’s

dream. Inspired by their patron, Samuel Pepys, the Lampery offers

a divine selection of British cuisine in ultra-chic surroundings.

Whether you come for breakfast, lunch, dinner or just for some

light bites, the Head Chef creates vibrant seasonal dishes from locally

sourced ingredients that look utterly stunning and taste even

better. There’s also the Lampery Terrace for alfresco dining which

is where we enjoyed some wonderful small plates and chilled

Lanson champagne.•


www.apexhotels.co.uk/destinations/london/apex-city-oflondon-hotel

“Our verdict

This luxurious hideaway sits within a great historic location

and is perfect for any kind of traveller to the capital. The

rooms are smart and the Lampery is an absolute must for

anyone who loves good, honest British cuisine.

Autumn 2021 78

Autumn 2021 79

HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

THE DILLY, LONDON

Everyone loves a building with a rich history and The Dilly, a playful

nod to the hotel’s enviable location in Piccadilly in heart of London

is no exception.

The building was designed in 1904 by Richard Norman Shaw in a

Neo-Baroque style, first operating as The Piccadilly Hotel in 1908

and guests at the time included King George V. The property has

been sold several times over its more than 100-year history but

following an ambitious refurbishment programme by New owners

Archer Hotel Capital, it has reopened its doors as The Dilly. In a

convenient spot just off the Circus on the Mayfair end of Piccadilly,

surrounded by cafés, bars, clubs, restaurants, shops and

theatres, the hotel couldn’t be better placed for exploring central

London. As you enter the building the dramatic colour scheme

creates a look that feels both very classic London, yet modern at

the same time. Despite the extensive interior update, much of this

grand old lady’s original neo-classical features survive. Wonderful

flower displays are the first thing that greet you supplied by local

florists Pulbrook & Gould. Arrangements can be purchased here in

the lobby, or made up at their nearby store and delivered to guests

rooms within the hour, a classy touch.

Rooms

Despite its intimate lobby, the hotel has an impressive 284 rooms

spread over nine floors. Our spacious rooms had everything you

would expect from a hotel of this calibre, mega comfortable kingsize

bed, smart TV, high-speed wifi and fluffy gowns to drown in.

Unique artwork and a large bathroom with high-end toiletries were

welcome features. We had some amazing chocolates and macrons

in our room which were washed down by chilled bubbles and

ensuring our stay got off to the best of starts.

Food

After an invigorating swim in one of the largest indoor pools in

central London, we had worked up an appetite. There are several

dining options in the hotel. The high-end Madhu’s at the Dilly, part

of the family-run Madhu’s Indian fine-dining chain melds the traditional

with the modern by offering Punjabi cuisine with a Kenyan

twist. We dined in the Terrace at The Dilly on Piccadilly based

in the spectacular, glass conservatory on the second floor. British

classic inspire the menu and everything we had was here excellent.

The hotel also serves its popular Peter Rabbit afternoon tea

in this location.•


www.thedillylondon.com

“Our verdict

With a delightful range of visitor experiences including

salsa classes and bike rides with picnic hampers, The Dilly

is aware that it needs to offer more to attract new audiences

as the capital slowly comes back to life. Based on our stay,

there’s no doubt that it’s ideally positioned to succeed.


HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

THE STAFFORD LONDON,

ST JAMES’S

Minutes from the West End and tucked away in the heart of historic St. James’s, Mayfair,

is the five-star luxury hotel The Stafford London - a vibrant place to stay conveniently

located on the doorstep of London’s most iconic landmarks.

After our first visit in 2019, we classed The Stafford as one of our

favourite London venues. How would it fare two years and one

global pandemic later?

Visitors will now find new measures to keep guests and staff safe,

including thermal scanners, increased hand sanitisation facilities,

and a robust audit process ensuring new regimes are consistently

implemented. The extensive measures will reassure you more than

they’ll feel invasive or tedious.

Open since 1912, The Stafford has maintained its splendour and

doesn’t look at all dated - on the contrary, the interiors are stylish

and modern. Guests can also take a tour of the grand 380-year-old

wine cellar that boasts 8,000 bottles of wine. Once used as a bomb

shelter in WWII, it’s a time capsule of history where you’ll find

old papers and cigarette packets preserved by the hotel. It’s a must

for any history boff.

Rooms

Suites are spread across three buildings: the Main House, Carriage

House and the Mews. Smaller but more on the traditional side are

the Main House’s plush rooms, each decorated with rich tones.

Converted from old stables is the Carriage House, and it proudly

shows its history with its country house vibe - soft colours and

large beds framed by enormous, curved headboards. From the

outside, the Mews building looks to be the least luxurious, but its

interior proves to be the polar opposite. With lush bedrooms and

marble bathrooms, each equipped with tubs and both overhead and

separate showers, this is the true five-star treatment. Our stunning

Penthouse Suite had its very own terrace from which we enjoyed

views over the rooftops of Mayfair and St James’s.

Food

The award-winning Game Bird is the main restaurant, which

focuses on seasonal modern British comfort cooking - aptly described

as a ‘theatre of the senses.’ Regular changing game options

include roast pigeon, venison loin or mallard. We enjoyed dishes

including scallops, smoked salmon, pigeon and the signature

chicken kiev dish. Everything was first-rate and only matched by

the impeccable service. There’s also the atmospheric American Bar

with a broad range of Mediterranean inspired dishes and signature

cocktails. Overseen by Bar Director, Benoit Provost, whose creations

are referenced by cocktail lovers worldwide. Special mention

goes to the outstanding full English breakfast which once again,

knocked our socks (or bathrobes) off.•


www.thestaffordlondon.com

Autumn 2021 82

“Our verdict

The Stafford London lives up to its five-star reputation

with its rich history, convenient proximity to London’s

landmarks, plush accommodation and sophisticated dining

experience. Moreover, it remains one of our favourite and

top-rated hotels in London.

Autumn 2021 83

HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

DALLOWAY TERRACE AT THE

BLOOMSBURY HOTEL, LONDON

Named after Mrs Dalloway, the protagonist of Virginia Woolf’s classic 1925 novel of the same name,

Dalloway Terrace has been described as the most Instagrammable restaurant in London. After our

visit, it’s safe to say this seasonal haven lives up to its elegant reputation.

Why go?

Situated on the actual terrace of the Bloomsbury hotel with a décor

that changes with the seasons, this gorgeous ‘indoor-outdoor’ alfresco

spot is perfect for enjoying the outdoors whilst sipping wine

and eating divine dishes. The service is also exceptional, complemented

by the smart and quirky attire of the waiters. If you have

concerns about the autumn weather then don’t fret, the fire heaters

spread out across the terrace will keep you toasty no matter the

forecast. Not even a thunderstorm could ruin your visit, the awning

and zip-close walls make for perfect shelter.

Who to go with

Dalloway Terrace is the perfect spot for all manner of occasions

and attracts a diverse range of people. Whether you’re looking to

take your colleagues out for a trendy post-work dinner or are looking

for an idyllic anniversary meal, this place is a dream.

What to eat & drink

Whether you’re here for lunch, dinner, afternoon tea or brunch,

there’s a wide range of options whatever your palette - including

a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. The lunch and dinner

menu consists of salads, seafood and steaks. Whilst the afternoon

tea includes deliciously sweet meringues and classic scones

served with Devonshire clotted cream and Scottish raspberry jam,

amongst other savoury treats. Desserts like the skillet brownie and

crème brûlée are also not to be passed up. Standouts amongst the

delights we were served was a heavenly combination of fresh oysters

and perfectly chilled English bubbles from Rathfinny Wine Estate

in Sussex. Their wine list is so vast you’ll be spoilt for choice,

and you’ll need to keep coming back to pop next door to the Coral

Room bar and try out their impressive range of champagnes, rums

and gins.•

“

Our verdict

”

The blend of Instaworthy aesthetics and incredible dishes

make this an absolute must for any Londoner or frequent

visitor to the capital.


www.dallowayterrace.com

The details

Dalloway Terrace accepts reservations 4 weeks in advance for up to 6 guests

per table. Inform them of any dietary requirements, special requests or celebrations

during booking.

Open daily from midday on Monday - Wednesday and 11am every

other day.

Prices vary, with main meals starting at £20 - not including drinks or other

courses. Brunch is £29.50 per person (11am - 2pm from Thursday - Sunday).

Afternoon Tea is £35 per person (every day 1pm - 4pm).

All cocktails are £15.


HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

THE MAY FAIR HOTEL

MAYFAIR, LONDON

Opened by King George V in 1927, the award-winning May Fair Hotel has a prestigious legacy it

retains to this day. Having played host to some of London’s most era-defining cinema, theatre and

music, it is now the official hotel to the British Film Institute and London Fashion Week.

Situated within walking distance from Buckingham Palace, the

hotel is enviably close to the glamorous restaurants of Berkeley

Street and Bond Street’s boutiques. Green Park tube station is also

a short journey by foot, granting easy access to the Jubilee, Piccadilly

and Victoria lines. There’s plenty of leisure options within

the hotel too, including a luxury spa, tranquil secluded terrace and

24-hour gym.

Rooms

There are over 400 rooms at the May Fair, including 37 suites,

offering a wide selection of some of the largest and most lavish

rooms you’ll find in London. Redefining modern luxury, our room

had richly textured fabrics, goose down bedding, a Vi-Spring

mattress, Catalan-designed furniture, a smart TV and a stunning

Sicilian marble bathroom. There are also family-friendly interconnecting

rooms if you’re bringing the kids but still want some

privacy. Complimentary Wi-Fi is covered across the hotel, keeping

you connected throughout your stay.

Food

Book ahead to get a table at their flagship May Fair Kitchen,

which offers a contemporary selection of exquisite Spanish and

Italian dishes as well as a curated list of fine wines and cocktails.

The ambience is also a relaxing delight with mellow lighting and

natural material furnishings. If you’re booked for a weekend, the

Charbonnel et Walker Afternoon Tea offers a heavenly chocolatey

experience that is a must for any chocaholic. There’s also

the ever-popular May Fair Bar where we enjoyed a few rounds of

cocktails and people watched the glamourous guests. The hotel

has partnered with the House of Suntory’s Roku Gin to create a

bespoke menu of cocktails, Japanese-inspired small plates and

brunch classics, which transports guests to the streets of Japan with

a botanical-themed environment - the interior blooming with cherry

blossom. Don’t miss the full English breakfast which the hotel

is happy to serve to your room.•


www.themayfairhotel.co.uk

Autumn 2021 86

“Our verdict

The May Fair Hotel lives up to its glamorous reputation,

providing some of the most luxurious accommodation and

cuisine you’ll find in London, whilst also being in enviable

proximity to the capital’s most exclusive restaurants

and boutiques.

Autumn 2021 87

HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

THE ROYAL LANCASTER,

LONDON

Offering some of the most awe-inspiring views in the capital is the 18-storey Royal Lancaster

London, which stands proudly at the border of Hyde Park and marries elegant design with the

highest standards of comfort and service.

Adjacent to Lancaster Gate Station and a short stroll from Paddington

Station, the hotel is conveniently situated for easy travel

across London. If stress-free access to an airport is essential, the

Heathrow Express will get you to Heathrow Airport. A 30-minute

walk across Hyde Park will get you to Knightsbridge, and Marble

Arch at the top of Oxford Street is just a 15-minute journey

by foot. With close proximity to several of London’s landmarks,

you’ll want to get out and enjoy the

capital’s highlights.

Extensive but unobtrusive safety measures are now in place. Sensor-based

hand sanitiser dispensers are close to hand in all public

spaces, luggage is cleaned with disinfectant wipes or UV light

(with guest consent), housekeeping options are flexible - from zero

contact to full-service (if pre-booked) - and more. You can relax

with full confidence that the Royal Lancaster London is committed

to protecting its staff and guests from Covid-19.

Rooms

In 2017, the Royal Lancaster London celebrated 50 years since

opening with a renovation that gave all 411 of its rooms and suites

a fresh, beautiful modern look. Every room offers equal comfort

and luxury, providing smart TVs, USB hubs and a working desk

fit for business and leisure. The large marble bathrooms contain

twin sinks, a roomy bathtub, walk-in shower and opulent White

Company toiletries. Our Park Suite ramped the luxury levels up to

maximum with a spacious living space, expansive bedroom, plush

furniture, an enormous bed and breathtaking panoramic views of

London’s world-famous skyline. Quite an experience.

Food

The Nipa Thai is a hidden marvel within the heart of London.

Led by Head Chef Sanguan Parr, you’ll find the most authentic

Thai cuisine outside of Bangkok. The dishes we chose were both

mouth-watering and plentiful with surprisingly good wine matches.

Service was first-class and the lively atmosphere indicated that

a thoroughly good time was being had by all. If Thai food is not to

your tastes, there’s the elegant and stylish Island Gill, which offers

an exquisite range of meat and salad dishes alongside a relaxed

modern menu for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Step out onto

the outdoor terrace for alfresco dining with spectacular views of

Hyde Park. For high-quality coffee and mouth-watering cakes and

pastries, check out the Hyde Café - also serving a delectable selection

of great wines and light bites.•


www.royallancaster.com

“Our verdict

Uber Luxurious rooms, fine cuisine, panoramic views of

London’s iconic skyline and close connections for easy travel

across London make the Royal Lancaster London the perfect

place to stay to enjoy all the capital has to offer.

Autumn 2021 88

Autumn 2021 89

HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

ST. PANCRAS RENAISSANCE HOTEL,

LONDON

Arguably one of the most beautiful hotels in London, the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel is now

an iconic landmark in its own right. Dating back to the Victorian era, the hotel has a rich history

that is woven into the beauty of staying there.

Looming over St. Pancras station with the Eurostar terminal on its

doorstep, it looks more like a fairytale castle than a hotel.

If those Gothic spires look familiar, it’s probably because you’ve

seen them in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets when Harry

and Ron flew a car over them. The hotel gravitates towards the

stunning grand staircase, a beautiful space with hand painted fleurde-lis

wallpaper, tapestry carpet and wrought-iron balustrading

under a starry vaulted ceiling. Music fans will recognise it from

the iconic Spice Girls video ‘Wannabe’ and it’s definitely worth an

impromptu photo shoot during your stay.

Rooms

The hotel is split into two - the new half and the old half. There are

207 rooms in the Barlow section, the modern extension of the hotel

which is inviting with big, modern bathrooms, soft lighting, smart

TVs and high-speed Wi-Fi. There are 38 historic Chambers Suites

in the old part of the property, which is where we stayed. Our huge

room had gorgeous Victorian features - ornate cornicing, marble

fireplaces, and a vast bathroom. With so much space and in such

a beautiful setting, you really can make it your home away from

home during your stay, no matter how short it may be.

Food

There are good options for dining within the hotel. The Hansom

Bar & Lounge blends tradition and modern luxury with all-day

dining and drinking and also serves afternoon tea. This is where

we sampled some truly fabulous Cocktails and a range of small

plates which were all delicious.. Breakfast is a bustling and lively

affair. You can enjoy a Full English Breakfast or choose from a

vast array of hot or cold options. It is one of the most varied and

popular breakfast menus in London. A second restaurant, the allday

dining restaurant, the Booking Office 1869, serves contemporary

British fare.•


www.marriott.co.uk/hotels/travel/lonpr-st-pancrasrenaissance-hotel-london

“Our verdict

Luxury meets history in the heart of Kings Cross.

This hotel oozes class through the renovation which took it

from the old Midland Railway building to one of the most

atmospheric properties anywhere in the capital. For the

combination of location and atmosphere, St Pancras Renaissance

is difficult to beat.


HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

THE SUNBORN

LONDON

Our plans to sail the Mediterranean this summer may have been derailed by restrictions

this year, but thankfully we can live out our superyacht dreams closer to home at the

swish Sunborn London.

Moored at the Royal Victoria Docks, by the ExCel centre, the Sunborn

London Yacht Hotel is the city’s only superyacht hotel, and

one of the most unique luxury experiences in London. The lifts on

the outside of the vessel, which whisk you up to the second-floor

reception area, are proof that you won’t be leaving the dock. But

stepping out into the striking reception area with its teak wood

accents, a sweeping glass staircase and magnificent chandelier, has

all the exciting feel of the beginning of a cruise.

Rooms

Each room and suite of the 136-room floating hotel boasts fabulous

river or dock views, while the plush Yacht Executive Rooms

in which we stayed, have their own private terrace or balcony, too.

Every room has smart TV, high-speed wi-fi and is stocked with

high-end toiletries. There’s also an in-room tablet and a Lavazza

coffee machine. Bathrooms are a good size with showers and the

Executive suite have whirlpool baths, showers, a sauna and a huge

balcony for those essential social media snaps. They are great fun.

Food

After knocking back a couple of delicious cocktails in The Bright

Sundown Bar, we headed to the hotel’s high-end Lands End

restaurant which promises to take your tastebuds on a voyage of

discovery. A refined menu of European and Asian fusion offers

fine dining in a sumptuous setting with truly enviable views. We

enjoyed everything we were served including a particularly good

wine match with our steak choice. Breakfast, also taken in the

Lands End restaurant, is also worth a special mention.•


www.sunbornhotels.com/london

Autumn 2021 92

“Our verdict

As a place to stay in the capital, The Sunborn London

offers something a bit different and is a great alternative to

atmosphere-free, chain hotels. It’s a destination in itself and

a worthy consideration for your staycation wish list. Handy

for the ExCel centre and close to London City Airport and

Canary Wharf, it’s also a good base for travel in and out of

the capital.

Autumn 2021 93

HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

THE HARD ROCK HOTEL,

LONDON

With its new hotel at Marble Arch, Hard Rock Cafe brings it back to where it all began: London.

The eponymous music, merchandise and restaurant company now has 186 cafes, 29 hotels and 12 casinos

worldwide, but it started - by two Americans - with a small burger-serving cafe in Mayfair in 1971.

After nearly 50 years, you might think the idea is tired, but in its

first London hotel, the party is still going strong. The Hard Rock

London feels very Hollywood luxe, with gold and turquoise accents

lighting up the lobby area. A lot of emphasis has been placed

on curating just the right set of memorabilia including David Bowie’s

“Relax” t-shirt, Freddie Mercury’s piano from his family home

in Middlesex and one of Paul McCartney’s iconic Beatles suits.

Rock memorabilia also adorn the walls of the main bar, an impressive

golden circular behemoth, including instruments, costumes

and other clothing. There’s also a Hard Rock shop is just across the

lobby to get your merch fix.

Rooms

There are two grades of room, Deluxe and Rock Royalty which we

stayed in. This included VIP check-in and access to the glitzy Rock

Royalty lounge, with its mirrored feature walls and velvet seats.

Music-themed perks on offer include personalized playlists, record

players and vinyl, and the opportunity to reserve a Fender guitar

and amp for your own jamming session.

There is original artwork in each room inspired by the photography

of Terry O’Neill and one of the quirkiest touches in our room

was the mirror marked out with celebrity heights, all the way from

Ariana Grande (5 ft. 3) to Snoop Dogg (6 ft. 4). All room grades

feature Hypnos beds, as well as free Wi-Fi, a digital TV and a

Nespresso machine.

Food

Make sure to book some time in for a cocktail or two at that

lavish lobby bar, grab a space in one of the sumptuous booths

and watch the mixologists create something delicious. The Hard

Rock restaurant offers the famous, clean-cut American menu here,

from burgers and steaks to fajitas and the classic Californian Cobb

Salad. This is also the space where the breakfast buffet is served in

the morning featuring a whole manner of pastries and English and

American breakfast items.•


www.hardrockhotels.com

“Our verdict

Hard Rock London is a chic hotel in the heart of the West

End and the vibe is lively as a result. It offers mass appeal,

is a lot of fun and is perfectly located for access to all the

tourist sights you could possibly want to see on a weekend

in the capital.


HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS

THE BEAUFORT BAR,

THE SAVOY

In the heart of London, The Savoy sits on the Northbank of the River Thames, equidistant from the world’s financial

capital and the highlight attractions of Knightsbridge and Mayfair. No other five-star London hotel could be more

perfectly situated for business or leisure.

Built in 1889 by theatrical impresario Richard D’Oyly Carte,

The Savoy is still known for its enviable proximity to London’s

West End - home to many of the most celebrated stage productions

in the world. Covent Garden is also just a short stroll

north, where you’ll find the Royal Opera House and some of the

most upscale fashion and beauty boutiques London has to offer

on Monmouth Street. Across the Thames you’ll find the London

arts quarter, consisting of the Southbank Centre, Royal National

Theatre, Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe and the world’s

tallest observation wheel: the London Eye. Somerset House, a

stone’s throw east of the hotel, is also a must if you’re a fan of

Neoclassical arts.

Rooms

Decorated in either an elegant Edwardian or Art Deco style,

most of The Savoy’s 267 luxury guest rooms and suites boast

some of the most stunning views of London that the city has

to offer. We highly recommend you get a room that offers a

beautiful panoramic view of the Thames. The rooms are bright

and come with plush furnishings and a Nespresso machine. The

suite bathrooms also come with a lovely walk-in shower and

clawfoot bath.


www.thesavoylondon.com

Drinks

The main event of our visit was to the dramatic jet-black and

dazzling gold décor of the romantic Beaufort Bar. Once upon a

time, cabaret stars graced The Savoy stage. Now, from a bar that

stands on that same stage, you’ll find a range of classic and new

cocktails made with an element of drama. We went to taste their

unique three-pillared ‘Interpreted Magic’ drinks menu. Inspired

by the ‘three pillars’ of magic, each represents a stage in the

traditional magic show and consist of a spellbinding range of

mixed drinks, wines, Champagnes, spirits, gins and tonics.

The star of the show was undoubtedly Europe’s most sustainable

cocktail: The Co-Naissance. This environmentally friendly

masterpiece was invented by Senior Mixologist at The Savoy,

Cristian Silenzi. It brings together Portobello Road Gin in lowwaste

ecoSPIRITSTM format, re-carbonated Champagne, and

two unique locally foraged London ingredients: elderflower

from Little Venice and fig leaves from Embankment Gardens.

Its name celebrates both knowledge of the past and new beginnings,

themes that could not be timelier as the world emerges

from a challenging period and looks to a greener future. Costing

£25, the cocktail is worth every penny.•

“Our verdict

The Savoy is perfect for stunning London sights and exploring

the London arts scene. Whilst the Beaufort Bar is a

gorgeous venue with some of the most imaginative drinks in

the capital, and The Co-Naissance is an absolute must.

Autumn 2021 96

Autumn 2021 97


Mandarin Oriental

Hyde Park, Knightsbridge

The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park hotel

underwent a major facelift that was

completed in the year 2000 and has since

gone on to become one of London’s

top hotels. It boasts a Michelin Starred

restaurant in “Foliage” as well as a

Victorian style decor. With over half of

the 173 rooms and 23 suites overlooking

Hyde Park, this exquisitely located hotel

is ideal for anyone looking for luxury

accommodation in Knightsbridge. The

spa has exclusive treatments unique to

this location and has been voted as the

one of the UK’s best spa multiple times.

Brown’s Hotel, Mayfair

The Dorchester

Housed in a landmark Art Deco building

dating from 1931 and facing its own

tree-filled green, The Dorchester looks

like a great ocean going liner, and

stands on one of the most prestigious

thoroughfares in London, Park Lane.

The service across the hotel is second

to none, an impressive combination

of easy-going but always polite charm

and personality and superb efficiency.

The spa features top brands such as La

Prairie and Valmont and a treatment

menu offering a choice of no less than

22 high-powered facials, and the rooms

are tasteful: some in an opulent, chintzy

style; most with a smart, pampering look

using restful prints and hues.

Of many five star hotels in Mayfair,

the Rocco Forte owned Brown’s

Hotel stands out as it was the first ever

hotel opened in London. The level of

uniqueness in every room and suite

has drawn major political figures and

authors such as Rudyard Kipling back

to this luxury hotel each time he visited

the area. A perfect example of authentic

British dining in London can be had

at HIX Mayfair which is adorned with

original works by British Artists. This is

complemented well by the Donovan Bar

which is aptly covered with iconic prints

from the renowned Terence Donovan.

TOP CHOICE: A TOUCH OF ITALY

The Franklin London -

Starhotels Collezione

The Franklin is based just off Egerton Crescent in

Knightsbridge, reportedly one of the most expensive streets in

the world, around five minutes walk from South Kensington

Underground station. The property was acquired by Italian

hotel group Starhotels and reopened in 2016. Starhotels also

counts London’s The Gore and The Pelham within its portfolio,

as well as Castille in Paris, The Michelangelo in New York,

and more than 20 hotels in Italy.

The interiors, created by Anouska Hempel are predominantly

monochrome, with varying shades of grey from the marble

and limestone floors, Italian velvet upholstery, grey and cream

wall hangings, and mirror framed prints. Our suite featured a

wrought iron four poster bed, large art nouveau style mirrors,

hardwood floors, Frette Italian linen, blackout blinds, and large

flatscreen TV. Special mention goes to the fabulous bathroom

which included a large wet room with bathtub and double rain

shower. Its a lovely hotel in the poshest part of town with a

peaceful setting, impeccable service and beautiful design both

in the rooms and public spaces. - starhotelscollezione.com

Autumn 2021 98

TOP CHOICE: THE GREATEST OF DAMES

The Langham

TOP CHOICE: A RIVERSIDE ICON

The Royal Horseguards


The Langham has had more than 150 years to perfect its winning formula of top-notch service, highly competitive drinking

and dining and classically elegant style. You’ll find plenty of marble in this hotel, starting with the stately pillars in the lobby,

combined with chandeliers, and tasteful placement of orchids throughout the property. Service is expertly slick and attentive, yet

warm, and there’s a small spa with pool.

The hotel’s restaurant, Roux at the Landau is a beautiful oval room designed by David Collins. A cocktail at Artesian, which held

the title of World’s Best Bar from 2011-15, is a must. The menu is strong but not intimidatingly so, with interesting but utterly

delicious options. The Bees Knees features three kinds of honey, lemon and gin; if you like grapefruit, try the Paloma; while

Espresso Martini devotees should try this inventive take on the classic.

Located across the road from Embankment underground station and Charing Cross, this hotel is ideally located for the London

Eye, Trafalgar Square, Houses of Parliament, Covent Garden and numerous galleries, theatres and shops. From glittering

chandeliers to contemporary design, this property reflects a proud heritage. For more than 100 years, The Royal Horseguards has

graced the banks of the Thames with its elegant, imposing presence. Its architectural heritage has earned it Grade I listed status,

and made it one of London’s most iconic buildings. It was home to the original Scotland Yard and used as a base for MI5 during

the First World War.

The hotel’s 280 bedrooms have been transformed into state-of-the-art luxury accommodation confirming its place among the

capital’s most luxurious and desirable hotels. The spacious rooms were elegantly decorated and feature dark furnishings and a

comfortable bed. It also offers a wonderful view across the Thames.

The restaurant possesses two AA Rosettes and offers a seasonal menu combining modern British and traditional French cuisines.

The Equus Bar serves cocktails which offer a nod to the hotel’s illustrious previous guests. A special mention goes to the buffet

breakfast which was one of the best we have tasted in a London hotel. - guoman.com

The Savoy, Westminster

The Savoy is located in Westminster and

was opened in 1889. The front entrance

stands out as one of the most striking

features in this 5 star hotel, as well as

the range of famous bars that accompany

this classic accommodation. Its stand out

bar, The American Bar, was one of the

first places to offer American cocktails

outside of the USA. The Savoy has also

recently undergone a major restoration

in order to boost standards at the already

impeccable hotel where Churchill and

co. often wined and dined in the superb

surroundings. The top suite available

at The Savoy, The Royal Suite, costs

£12000 a night for a stay; the ultimate in

luxury.

Bulgari Hotel, London

With its sleek design, vast subterranean

spa, and close proximity to the

department stores and boutiques of

Knightsbridge, this a popular choice with

those seeking the ultimate shop ‘n’ flop

experience. Chief among its facilities

is the spa, a sprawling yet intimate

complex of massage rooms, saunas,

steam rooms and relaxation areas,

augmented by a lounger-lined swimming

pool. Sette, the hotel’s sole restaurant,

is a sultry, contemporary space on the

ground floor serving flavoursome Italian

fare, with service to match. Splash out

on one of the signature Bulgari suites

for butler service and a separate steam

shower

Shangri-La Hotel at The

Shard

For London’s best views, it’s a nobrainer.

The Shangri-La inhabits floors

34-52 of the Shard, Western Europe’s

tallest building, so on a clear day you

can pretty much see the whole city

(unless you book one of the cheaper,

south-facing rooms). A less welcome

aspect of the impressive floor-to-ceiling

glass is that you can also see your

neighbours in their room, reflected in the

glass exterior. Awkward! (Don’t worry,

there are blinds for the timid.) Decor

can feel a little ‘Asian neutral’, but with

touches like in-room binoculars, it’s

obvious that the star of the show was

always going to be the vista.

The Goring, Westminster

The Goring was opened over 100 years

ago and was the first hotel in the world

that had a bathroom and central heating

in every room; they have since come a

long way! Nowadays, the hotel houses

guests like the Royal family who stayed

at The Goring in the build up to the

Wedding of Prince William and Kate

Middleton in 2011. This boutique hotel

has a mixture of 69 rooms and suites

which provide a quainter feel than some

of the larger 5 star hotels in London. The

bespoke Swarowski Chandeliers give a

wondrous touch of grandeur to guests

at The Dining Room restaurant which

serves true British cuisine at this London

landmark.

The Beaumont

You’d never guess that central London’s

most striking-looking hotel was

Selfridge’s former garage until a few

years ago. After humble beginnings, the

Beaumont is now, quiet literally, a work

of art, with Antony Gormley’s part-suite,

part-sculpture, ROOM, adorning its

front. Elsewhere decor is pure art deco

fantasia, courtesy of ace restaurateurs

Chris Corbin and Jeremy King, and

service manages to nail the fine line

between efficient and obsequious;

friendly and pseudo-matey. It’s a

convenient spot for Selfridges, too, and

the American bar is perfect for a postspree

old fashioned.

Ham Yard Hotel

The first thing you notice about Ham

Yard is just how big it is: a three quarters

of an acre horseshoe of central London

given over to 91 generously proportioned

rooms and 24 apartments, along with a

small collection of independent shops.

The second is just how little it feels

like a hotel; in part thanks to a drawing

room styled like a gazillionaire writer’s

living room, a bowling alley, a 190-seat

theatre and – because where would you

be without it? – an air-locked gym where

you can practise training at altitude.

Autumn 2021 100 Autumn 2021 101

TOP CHOICE: THE BOUTIQUE OPTION


Artist Residence, Pimlico

Artist Residence London is the perfect choice for travellers

searching for a unique place to stay in London. Located a

5-minute walk from Pimlico, Victoria and Sloane Square, is

this ten bedroom independent hotel, restaurant and bar. The

fourth property in a hip hotel chain (Brighton, Cornwall and

Oxfordshire with a fifth opening in Bristol this year), the

original building, a public house, dates back to 1852 and has

been carefully restored over the last two years.

With interiors sourced from reclaimed materials and antiques

dealers you can tell everything has been carefully selected for

an uber cool aesthetic. From the exposed brick to the fireplaces,

wooden floorboards and vintage leather chairs.

Downstairs is the popular bistro-style restaurant, The

Cambridge Street Kitchen, which serves seasonal British

produce, but the highlight of our stay was the subterranean

basement bar, The Clarendon Cocktail Cellar. In a room

containing antique cast iron shelves, vintage lamps and

red leather bar stools our ‘mixologist’ served up cocktails

inspired by iconic films like Titanic, Lost in Translation,

and Anchorman. - artistresidence.co.uk

Chiltern Firehouse Hotel

Chances are you didn’t even know this

was a hotel, so deafening has been the

hype around the on-site restaurant it

shares its name with. The buzz is all

thanks to André Balaz, of LA’s Chateau

Marmont fame, who clearly knows

how to give the people what they want.

The 26 pleasingly retro rooms in this

late-Victorian fire station are a simple,

stylish treat, and the standard barrage

of notices about laundry costs and telly

channels are ditched in favour of a note

on the dresser saying simply: ‘Dial 0 for

anything’. We approve.

The Ritz

Does the most famous hotel in the world

need an introduction? Probably not,

but to step into the Ritz is still a semimagical

experience, transporting you

back to a time when Britain ruled the

world and someone had just invented

the train. An update in 1995 injected

some modernity and mod-cons into

the 1906-does-Louis XVI design, but

there’s a wonderful sense of old-school

decorum here, appropriate given the

sheer quantities of marble and 24 carat

gold leaf on site. Be warned: no jeans,

no trainers, and jackets for dining, please

– apart from at breakfast.

Rosewood London

Rosewood’s London outpost is an

elegant retreat offering luxurious and

stylish interiors with playful touches, a

serene spa, solid dining options and a

very popular cocktail bar, Scarfes. Upon

entering the hotel, guests are met with

effortless elegance, yet the place doesn’t

take itself too seriously, with cages of

fake birds and models of a bulldog and

bear by the lifts. Corridors are dark and

sultry, with eye-catching touches such as

a rose gold mirrored ceiling. Rooms are

spacious, and the Holborn Dining Room

is an Art Deco, brasserie-esque setting

with high-end touches such as oversized

flower displays and glam lighting. The

bar stocks more than 500 gins; taking

a recommendation (including tonic

pairing) is your best bet. The sommelier

also makes good suggestions.

Autumn 2021 103

TOP CHOICE: ELEGANCE AND CLASS


The Landmark

First opened in 1899, the Landmark London was the last of the

great Victorian Railway Hotels. Designed by Robert William

Ellis, well known for his Gothic revival style, the hotel stands

imposingly alongside Marylebone Road, just seconds from the

station. More recently, this historic hotel has been reborn as one

of the best luxury hotels in the capital: The Landmark London.

With 300 rooms, this large-scale hotel still manages, through a

combination of impeccable service and old-fashioned charm, to

feel like an intimate place to stay – you can easily forget you’re

sleeping beside one of the capital’s busiest roads. The hotel has

a spectacular central atrium with palm trees stretching up to a

glass roof and the elegant vibe extends to the on-site spa, with

an indoor pool and fitness centre.

The highlight of our stay, though, was lunch in The Winter

Garden, which constitutes an uplifting, glamorous place

for dining, the soaring ceilings conveying a wonderful sense

of space. Service was faultless and friendly, and the food

was mouth watering; there are also plenty of good wines to

compliment the expansive menu. - landmarklondon.co.uk

Autumn 2021 105


TOP CHOICE: BRITAIN MEETS BOMBAY

TOP CHOICE: SOUTH BANK RIVER VIEWS

The Lalit London

Crowne Plaza Albert Embankment

Lalit is well known in India, but this is its first British hotel.

Six years in the making, this transformed Grammar School

is the epitome of luxury and grandeur that captures the very

essence of India. The hotel’s central Tooley Street address

puts it squarely in the tourist zone, conveniently situated near

attractions like the Shard, London Dungeons, Shakespeare’s

Globe, and HMS Belfast.

Located on the South Bank of the Thames, the Crowne Plaza

Albert Embankment offers stunning views over the river,

including the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye. With

its convenient location, the property offers easy access to the

capital’s must-see destinations. Crowne Plaza is renowned

for its quality services and friendly staff, and the new hotel at

Albert Embankment lives up to expectations.

The Lalit is housed in the most stunning 180-year-old building

that has previously been host to St. Olave’s School. The colours

of the exterior are very much reminiscent of its previous

purpose: red brick paired with white detailing and large

windows, the kind that classrooms would have. It seems like a

sure-fire preview for a quintessentially English experience yet

inside, the gold-flecked tapestries and Hyderabadi chandeliers

deliver a far more cosmopolitan stay.

Boasting a combination of 70 rooms and suites, bedrooms are

full of modern, state of the art appliances and queen sized beds.

They are swathed in ochre silks and velvets, though it’s the

intricate headboards, embroidered with peacocks that gallantly

steal the show.

There are 142 bedrooms, including six suites, many with

unobstructed city and river views, via floor-to-ceiling windows.

The colour scheme marries muted tones with maroon and rust

hues, and a clean, comfortable design. All of the rooms and

suites are equipped with contemporary amenities, including

Smart TV’s, Nespresso Machines and mini-bars.

The jewel in its crown is a stunning 14th-floor Thames-side

sky terrace, which takes in views of the London Eye and the

Houses of Parliament. This is the location for Mezemiso,

a Lebanese-inspired restaurant and bar. It features a mix of

copper and metallic tones, while the glamour is amped up with

floor-to-ceiling glass windows, open fireplaces for colder nights

and a dedicated shisha and cigar terrace.

We enjoyed a fabulous meal at Baluchi, the fine dining

restaurant located in the Grand Hall of the building. With a

vaulted ceiling, chandeliers, original wooden flooring and

rich, opulent colours, the Grand Hall is certainly the piece de

resistance of The Lalit. The food itself takes its influences from

pan – India – meaning the inspiration is felt from every corner

of the country resulting in and exotic and vibrant dishes.

The Lalit is like a calm oasis in a very hectic part of London,

set back from the busy road and almost country-like with its

cleaned red brick exterior. The renovation of this building is

extremely impressive and if you’re looking for something a

little different, The Lalit should definitely be on your go-to list.

thelalit.com/the-lalit-london

Located on the ground floor is POTUS, the restaurant in which

we enjoyed a fabulous meal. With a nod to classic Americana,

each dish is designed to reflect different elements of the USA’s

cultural identity. While the cocktail menu takes its inspiration

from past US presidents whose portraits decorate the walls. The

menu was explained to us by the manager of the restaurant,

who made every dish sound exceptionally tempting and as

a result we ordered over half the menu and a fabulous bottle

of Sicilian red wine. We were impressed with the new takes

on firm favourites like the New England Clam Chowder and

Truffle Mac & Cheese. The restaurant utilises the finest and

freshest ingredients to offer the very best of American cuisine.

Guests can also enjoy free internet in all areas, a business

centre and the property’s host of recreational offerings ensures

you have plenty to do during your stay. At Crowne Plaza Albert

Embankment you will enjoy a great location and services

to match.

crowneplaza.com

Autumn 2021 106 Autumn 2021 107

AFTERNOON TEA

AFTERNOON TEA

THE MILESTONE HOTEL, LONDON

Just a short walk from the Royal Albert Hall you’ll find The Milestone Hotel, a Grade-II

listed Victorian building that is renowned for its awe-inspiring original artwork, plush

furnishings, and exquisite cuisine.

A recognisable London landmark, The Milestone Hotel is conveniently

situated in Kensington Court, close to Notting Hill and

Knightsbridge. The beautiful leafy surroundings make for idyllic

park walks and picnics. To better protect staff and guests, they’ve

updated their cleaning and safety measures. They have partnered

with trusted medical professionals who offer PCR Covid-19

testing at the hotel, installed air purifiers in every public space and

introduced a new and sustainable self-disinfecting solution called

Leitha CleanCoat. You can trust you’ll be safe whilst you enjoy

your stay.

Rooms

With 43 deluxe guest rooms and 13 luxury suites, every room has

a distinct character that has been designed with both comfort and

creativity in mind. Decorated with curated artworks, plush furnishings,

fresh flowers and fine fabrics, no two rooms are alike, and

each has its own unique charm.

Food

experience in London. During our visit we also met Dananjaya

The English tradition of Afternoon Tea is at the very heart of The Silva from PMD Tea, suppliers to Red Carnation Hotels who

Milestone Hotel’s lunch menu and we were served ours in the Park explained the menu’s collection of teas including our choice,

Lounge. On offer were a delectable array of delights including The Planters Mistress, a refreshing golden tea with bergamot,

finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones topped with Devonshire orange and lemon peel.•

clotted cream and home-made preservatives, and a delicious range

“

of eclairs, tartlets, cupcakes and macarons. Central to the Royal Our verdict

Afternoon Tea is the golden tiara placed atop a raspberry, strawberry

and Valhrona chocolate mousse cube, which is coated in With exquisite views of Kensington Palace and Gardens,

royal purple and has a pistachio biscuit inside - it’s a sweet dish combined with the scrumptious Afternoon Tea menu

”

of

to die for. And don’t fret about dietary requirements - vegetarian traditional English scones and pastries, The Milestone Hotel

sandwiches and gluten-free breads, pastries and scones are all succeeds in offering a magical experience of aesthetic charm

available. You need not look elsewhere for the finest Afternoon Tea and fantastic food.


www.milestonehotel.com

Autumn 2021 108 Autumn 2021 109

AFTERNOON TEA

PEGGY PORSCHEN

AFTERNOON TEA AT

LANESBOROUGH HOTEL, LONDON

Priding itself on providing London’s most unique afternoon teas, the award-winning Lanesborough

Hotel stands on the doorstep of Hyde Park and within walking distance of Harrods, Harvey Nichols

and London’s most exclusive shopping districts, Sloane Street and Knightsbridge.

Just a minute’s walk from Hyde Park Corner tube station or a

seven-minute stroll from Knightsbridge, The Lanesborough is celebrated

by local Londoners and staying guests alike. Home to the

Michelin-starred Céleste restaurant, the hotel is renowned for its

food and drink as much as its accommodation. Most notable are its

famous afternoon teas, but not to be overlooked is the lush Garden

Room - London’s best cigar lounge - and the distinguished Library

Bar - serving the capital’s most celebrated cocktails.

Unveiled after the hotel’s recent renovation, led by famed interior

designer Alberto Pinto, was the exclusive Lanesborough Club &

Spa. It offers access to internationally recognised experts in the

fields of mindfulness, fitness, beauty and wellness, and this year

the Good Spa Awards crowned it the Best Urban Spa.

Rooms

With round-the-clock butler service on offer for all 93 luxurious

suites and bedrooms, guests are assured their needs are well met

with great care, surprise and charm. Every room has been refurbished

with elegant interiors and responsive technology, including

in-room tablets and speedy Wi-Fi. Whilst you’re guaranteed fine

furnishings whichever room you choose to stay in, some come

with the bonus of picturesque views of Hyde Park.

Food

The Lanesborough is home to London’s most incredible afternoon

teas and earlier this year we visited to taste the deliciously devilish

Cruella afternoon tea, that paid homage to the Disney icon.

Now due to popular demand, the hotel is again collaborating with

world-famous bakery Peggy Porschen on their next experience.

Under the naturally illuminated domed glass roof of the Céleste,

with the fairy tale pink aesthetics of Peggy Porschen, guests can

expect a five-star experience consisting of stunning floral features,

pastel hues and exquisite tastes. Porschen held her first prestigious

pastry chef position at the hotel in 1999, after graduating from Le

Cordon Bleu’s ‘The Grand Diploma of Cuisine & Patisserie’. In

collaboration with her skilled pastry chef team and Lanesborough’s

charismatic Head Pastry Chef, Kevin Miller - runner-up

on this year’s series of Channel 4’s Bake Off: The Professionals

- Porschen has designed a truly unique afternoon tea dining

experience.

Expect a bespoke blend of Peggy Porschen and Lanesborough

creations alongside classic afternoon tea essentials, such as finger

sandwiches, scones, clotted cream and jam. The most delectable

sweet treats will include: Peggy’s Pink Pavlova; lemon and

elderflower tartlet; cherry and chocolate chip cupcake; salted caramel

and popcorn cupcake; and a slice of lemon, raspberry and

rose layer cake. Early reservation is strongly recommended so

you don’t miss out on what will almost certainly be the highlight

of any visit to The Lanesborough.•


www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/the-lanesborough

“ ”

Our verdict

The afternoon tea experience at the Lanesborough is unlike

any other and is not to be missed, whilst proximity to highend

shopping and the award-winning spa is just the cherry

on top of a luxury cake. The Peggy Porschen afternoon tea

starts from £54 per person, or £71 per person with a Belgravia

Bloom cocktail.

Autumn 2021 110 Autumn 2021 111

TOP 5

LONDON ROOFTOP BARS

ROOFTOP BARS

London weather is temperamental to say the least, but officially, autumn is on its way. Bathed in optimism, if not

sunshine, a number of London’s bars have swept their terraces, opened their rooftops and allocated top-floor space to

provide the capital with new drinking dens. On clear days they’re perfect spots for sun-downer drinks, so make the most of

these fleeting opportunities with our selection of London’s best rooftop bars.

Aqua Kyoto

The Aqua group are panorama

professionals. Aqua Spirit flies the flag for

the company back at their base in Hong

Kong, providing a dizzying lookout from

the 30th floor of a waterside skyscraper,

directly over the technicolour-tinted

harbour. Your surroundings aren’t quite

so impressive at Aqua Kyoto, but they’re

not half bad. Directly in front of the bar

there’s the grand sweep of Regent Street

and the domed, coral-green roof of the

Apple store – it’s surprising how pretty

these buildings actually are when you take

the time to appreciate them. On the terrace

itself, décor’s tastefully muted rather

than garishly overstated: slate tiles cover

the walls; ash-coloured banquettes ring

the open terrace. It’s a restraint that’s in

keeping with Kyoto’s Japanese theme.

The bar leads to an indoor Japanese restaurant decorated in silk and charcoal. The crowd throughout looks the part too. More

locals in the know than tourists clutching guidebooks, it’s full of after-work drinkers, wealthy-looking guys and good-looking

women. Things remain restrained in the restaurant, but can get lively on the rooftop. The focus on drinking – speciality cocktails

and sake – and occasional DJ turns – Café del Mar- and melodic house-style sets – means the atmosphere improves after the sun

goes down.

30 Argyll Street, W1B 3BR; open Mon-Sat 12pm-3pm and 6.30pm-1am - aquakyoto.co.uk/experience

The Rooftop

On the sixth floor of the Trafalgar Hotel, you can’t see very

far from here but you are directly above Trafalgar Square, and

the location’s a showstopper. Tilt your neck to see the National

Gallery; crane over the railing – carefully – and you can gaze

down on the turquoise pools of Trafalgar Square. St Martinin-the-Fields

church is visible too, and this is probably the

closest you’ll come to looking eye to eye at Admiral Nelson

as he stands sentry on his column. Best of all, however, is that

you can enjoy all these sights at your leisure as less-informed

visitors scramble around on ground level. As for the bar itself,

pink roses and pastel cushions come across as slightly mawkish

but otherwise its palette of dark chocolate and soft greys looks

the part.

2 Spring Gardens, Trafalgar Square, SW1A 2TS; open

Mon-Tues: Closed (available for private hire)

Wed-Thu: 12pm-1am Fri-Sat: 12pm-3am (last entry 1am)

Sun: 12pm-7pm - trafalgarstjames.com/the-rooftop

London:

Drink in the views as well as the cocktails

Autumn 2021 112 Autumn 2021 113

ROOFTOP BARS

Queen of Hoxton

You can follow your nose to the Queen of Hoxton’s rooftop

garden. On balmy evenings the hipster pub grills some of the

best jerk chicken in East London. Climb the stairs covered in

arty scrawlings and at the top you’ll find an oasis of fake turf

and decking, with views from the garden’s blooming window

boxes to the towers of the City. Lawn chairs and tables are

scattered around a water fountain and pergola dripping with

fairy lights. As well as lip-tingling chicken, the barbecue serves

up burgers and halloumi skewers while the bar stocks summery

tipples from cold beer to Briska pomegranate cider and selected

cocktails. As the sun sets, the seats are rearranged for a film

screening from the Rooftop Film Club. A series of classics,

from Casablanca to Robocop, are being shown, with popcorn

and sweets available to complete the experience. The audience

wears wireless headphones to block out any noise from the

city below. 1-5 Curtain Road, EC2A 3JX; Mon-Fri 12pm-9pm;

ticketed film nights run from 9pm-11pm approx.

- queenofhoxton.com/rooftop

Coq d’Argent

Lovely, leafy Coq d’Argent is one of the more salubrious

addresses in the City, its status and renown in no small part

due to its rooftop garden. From the well-tended lawns, you

can cast your eyes on Monument and the Gherkin and, from

about 5pm, batteries of bankers. This bar’s the height of

sophistication with an exceptional wine list, an extensive

range of champagnes and stodgy cigars available to slurp, sip

and smoke as applicable. If you’ve got time to linger during

the week and money to spare it’s worth dining here too.

The Coq d’Argent French restaurant is formal but reliable

and popular with those claiming expenses. A better way to

experience the setting is to visit during the weekend: the

City has quietened; the workers have retreated; the space has

opened up; and bargain-price set menus are available.

1 Poultry, EC2R 8EJ; Mon-Sun 11.30am-10pm.

- coqdargent.co.uk/at/terrace-garden-bank

Frank’s Café and Campari Bar

Frank’s does a sterling job of combining about 18 different

London trends in one. As well as being a rooftop bar it qualifies

as a pop-up – it’s been erected on a “temporary building”,

which in this case is a multi-storey car park. It’s also part of

an arts project (Peckham’s Bold Tendencies Scultpture Project

is responsible for its creation), and it’s got a corporate drinks

sponsor through the Campari association. Sorted. Given all

those different facets, it’s a refreshingly simple spot. A series

of weatherworn wooden benches and tables are covered by a

cherry-red canopy, yellow parking lines partition the cement

floor. The gritty setting is complemented by a hardy spirit, too.

Other venues may close if the weather turns, but here you’re

advised to simply bring coats and blankets if necessary. The

greatest lure away from the city centre could well be its cheap

drinks, though. Beers start at £1.50 while cocktails are no more

than £5 – prices that are unheard of in central London.

95a Rye Lane, SE15 4ST; Thu-Fri 11am-10pm - frankscafe.

org.uk

Autumn 2021 115

LONDON’S BEST

SPAS

Aman Spa at the Connaught

In the depths of The Connaught Hotel in Mayfair you will

find The Aman Spa at the Connaught, the first Aman Spa to

be built outside the world-famous Aman resorts. With only

five treatment rooms, it’s a place of simplicity, tranquility and

intimacy, where the focus is on you, your body and your mind.

The spa offers a host of specialist complementary therapies

and beauty services along with a subtly-lit ionised pool with

cascading granite water wall. The range of treatments take

inspiration from Chinese, the Americas, Indian and Thai

traditions. Make sure you leave time to enjoy a herbal infusion

while relaxing around the pool after your treatment.

- the-connaught.co.uk/aman-spa

SPAS

The SPA at the Dorchester

Exuding 1930s Art Deco glamour with a contemporary

edge, The Spa at The Dorchester feels luxurious and opulent

throughout, with nine spacious treatment rooms, a separate

mani-pedi suite and a stylish, sexy relaxation area. Signature

facials are by Carol Joy London, with other treatments by

skincare brand Kerstin Florian and Aromatherapy Associates.

In addition to the long list of specialised treatments, The

Spa at The Dorchester has a unique extra selling point - the

Spatisserie, where you can relax with some cake and a glass of

Champagne, continuing with the ethos that ‘a little bit of what

you love is good for you’.

- dorchestercollection.com

Agua Spa

The 10,000 square-foot agua spa at Sanderson in London’s

Fitzrovia is a dazzling all-white space providing pampering,

spiritual relief, and tranquillity. With walls of white, flowing

curtains, the 14 all-white treatment rooms, chill-out zone and

meditation beds creates a cloud-like ambiance with the sound

of running water added to the atmosphere. Try the Natura

Bisse signature treatment that analyses your skin and creates

a programme designed specifically for your skin or the Natura

Bisse Diamond Experience offering a multi-sensory cosmetic

lift using ingredients that penetrate into the deepest layers

of the skin, providing the firmness necessary to stimulate

regeneration and reinforces the skin’s natural defence system.

- morganshotelgroup.com

Ushvani Spa

An oasis of tranquillity in the heart of Chelsea, Ushvani is

one of London’s finest day spas offering the perfect blend of

spa indulgence and restorative therapies. There are specially

commissioned Malaysian artworks throughout the spa and

the aroma of ginger, nutmeg and pandan leaves creating an

authentic, relaxing experience. Spa treatments are available

for both male and female guests, with the spa pool and steam

facilities of the lower ground floor being reserved for ladies

only. Try the Kaffir lime reinvigorating ritual, which involves

an exfoliating scrub focusing on the shoulders and neck, a

soothing stomach massage to aid digestion and reflexology on

the feet.

- ushvani.com

AWAY Spa

6 floors up from the madness of Leicester Square lies an oasis

of calm in the form of the AWAY Spa at W London. The spa is

all-white and minimalist, with smooth, sleep lines. A team of

celebrity therapists are on hand to help you: from the signature

facials by Su-Man and advanced aesthetics of Dr. Wong, expert

tanning of James Harknett, to Ruthie Belle’s stunning eyelashes

and hair styling of Sergio Giannasso. Chose from an extensive

treatment menu including exfoliation, facials, manicures,

pedicures, waxing, massage, reflexology and tanning. Try the

chocolate facial and body using the anti oxidant binding and

nourishing properties of pure 100% cocoa.

- awayspalondon.com

Autumn 2021 116 Autumn 2021 117

HIGH-ROLLING

CASINOS

CASINOS

London is undoubtedly one of the gambling capitals of Europe, with dozens of fantastic locations spread across the city.

There are plenty of options for both high-rollers and newcomers alike, and we’ve compiled a list of the five must-visit

casinos on your next trip to the UK’s capital.

The Clermont Club, Mayfair

Only those with intimate knowledge

of London’s gambling community

will know about The Clermont Club,

with its discrete exterior masking one

of the best gambling experiences in

the country. Boasting a “discrete”

and professional service, this location

gives visitors access to a limited but

well-crafted selection of table games.

The only catch is that the casino is for

approved members only, with potential

new players having to go through an

extensive vetting procedure.

- mayfaircasinos.com

The Park Tower Casino,

Knightsbridge

Owned by world-renowned operator

Grosvenor, the Park Tower Casino

combines fine dining with a chic

European playing area. This location

prides itself on the luxury of its services,

with experienced staff delivering an

unrivalled atmosphere. In addition

to standard Roulette and Blackjack

offerings, this casino also runs an

innovative Stud Poker progressive

jackpot feature, giving players the

chance to take home major prize money.

- grosvenorcasinoslondon.com/

The Palm Beach Casino,

Mayfair

Set in the stunning Mayfair Hotel, The

Palm Beach Casino is arguably one

of the best in London. It offers cash

games seven nights a week, as well

as regular high-roller tournaments

throughout the year. The casino is open

24 hours a day and also takes bookings

for private tables, making it a great

choice for high-class poker parties.

There’s also a brand new dice table,

securing its place as one of the best

casinos in the UK. - thepalmbeach.co.uk

Aspers Casino, Stratford

Those looking for a slightly more

relaxed gambling atmosphere should

head over to the Westfield shopping

centre in Stratford, which is home to the

brand new Aspers Casino. This is the

UK’s very first super casino, offering

70 different tables, 150 slots and 150

video gaming terminals, as well as eight

sports betting terminals. As one of the

biggest locations in the UK, this has fast

become a huge attraction for tourists and

locals alike, making it definitely worth

a visit on your next trip to the Capital. -

aspersstratford.co.uk

The Casino at the Empire,

Leicester Square

This is one of the most exclusive casinos

in the city, with a prime location in the

heart of Leicester Square. Pledging to

bring “a touch of Vegas” to the UK,

this casino is home to a number of

hotly contested poker tournaments,

including the regular £25,000 guaranteed

cash race. The site also offers Pai

Gow, Baccarat (or Punto Banco) and

plenty of Blackjack, with visitors also

given access to two luxury bars.

- thecasinolsq.com

Autumn 2021 118

THEMED BARS

ICE, ICE

BABY!

Tucked away from the buzz of busy Regent Street, Ice Bar London

offers a chilly oasis in the heart of the city that’s uber cool.

By Martin Mason.

Photos: © Flavio Liotto

Autumn 2021 120 Autumn 2021 121

THEMED BARS

ICE, ICE BABY!

Ice Bar London is the UK’s only permanent ice bar, keeping things a cool -5 all year round. To keep things fresh, they

redesign the space each year, putting their team of artists to work to create an entirely new theme. This year, they’ve

dedicated the bar to all things London, so get ready to see the world’s greatest city in a whole new light, with loads of

cheeky nods to London life, including references to Banksy, Brexit, and Her Majesty The Queen.

Why go?

With temps rising and the sun glaring off of the city’s high-rises,

sometimes relief from the warm weather is necessary. Ice

Bar London is the perfect place to go for drinks if you want an

atmosphere that’s totally different from other offerings around

the city. Served in carved out blocks of ice, Ice Bar London’s

drinks are Instaworthy and if you’re hungry, there’s a separate

Fire Bar and restaurant with an impressive a la carte menu.

Who to go with

This is a fun place for groups visiting the city who want a

unique experience that isn’t totally cliche. It’s also a cool first

date option to break the ice (pun intended). Alternatively,

seasoned couples will find it interesting and a break from the

norm. The venue is also fit for families with mocktail options

available throughout the afternoon, so children are able to

tag along.

What to drink

With clever names that are completely on theme, every drink

sounds good. Serpents Venom is a tropical holiday in a glass

with bourbon and a passion fruit twist that makes it stand out.

The God of Thunder is a sweet vodka-based treat, while the the

Kara Colada mixes coconut with rum. •

IceBar London

Tucked away from the buzz of busy Regent

Street, Ice Bar London offers a chilly oasis in the

heart of the city that’s uber cool.

”

IceBar London, London’s coolest bar, is the best

place to chill out in the capital.

IceBar sessions are 40 minutes each and the venue

is also available for hire.

“Our verdict

The details

Prices for standard tickets include a cocktail, cape

and gloves are £14.50 for slots from Sunday-Monday

before 5:45 pm. They go down to £13.50 if

booked in advance. Prices at all other times start

at £16.50, rising with upgrades and packages.

Visit: icebarlondon.com

Autumn 2021 122

Autumn 2021 123

THEMED BARS

FLIGHT OF

FANCY

Flight Club’s newest location in London’s Victoria

takes the humble game of darts to the next level.

By Martin Mason.

Photos: © Flavio Liotto

Autumn 2021 124 Autumn 2021 125

THEMED BARS

FLIGHT OF FANCY

Get in the zone, mind focused, elbows straight, ready to let go – and explode on the dartboard with

style. Yes, this isn’t your average bar. This is Flight Club, where guests can book a session to

throw darts in an ‘oche’ – a small private booth – taking part in a series of games.

Flight Club’s first two bars (in Holborn and Shoreditch) have

taken the pastime to a luxurious new level, with a twist of technology

to smooth things along. In their glam wood-panelled venues,

each board sits under the gaze of three precision cameras,

which collectively identify the location of each dart thrown with

sub-millimetre accuracy. Already well known for their delicious

pizza making, innovative cocktail shaking and electric atmosphere

– the team at Flight Club are old hands at delighting their

guests with exceptional and unforgettable social experiences.

And now, the Social Darts phenomenon has arrived in west London,

with a landmark site at the heart of Victoria. With 18 oches

(darts playing areas), a spectacular bar and a beautiful outdoor

terrace – Flight Club Victoria has all the fun of the fairground

like you’ve never seen before. With a variety of challenges available,

darting has never been this fun. You can play each game as

little or as often as you like, losing track of time and completely

losing yourself in the general atmosphere.

The food, which can be ordered straight to the oche, is fast,

delicious and reasonable with an average main coming out at

£10. There are two menus: one for lunch and another for sharing,

based around salads, burgers, fries, pizzas and meat-based dishes.

Whether you’re making the most of your weekend at their epic

Brunch Social or watching the action unfold from the bar, you’ll

be thrilled you came along for the ride! •

Flight Club:

Order delicious drinks and food from your oche!

Flight of fancy:

Flight Club’s newest location

in London’s Victoria

“Our verdict

Flight Club expertly combines a comforting food

experience with the social niceties of darts,

”

all

amongst a warm and relaxed atmosphere and

welcoming staff. It definitely hits the target.

Get there

6, Sir Simon Milton Square, London, SW1E 5DJ

Book

Flight of fancy:

Flight Club’s www.flightclubdarts.com/london newest location in London’s Victoria

Autumn 2021 126

Autumn 2021 127

CITY GUIDE

PRAGUE

Visually, Prague is in many ways impossible to improve. The Stare

Mesto and Mala Strana districts, either side of the Vltava River, together

form one of Europe’s best preserved old city centres, with virtually every

street an uplifting symphony of cobbles and extravagant Renaissance and

baroque architecture.

A GUIDE TO THE BEST SIGHTS AND

PLACES TO EAT, DRINK AND SLEEP IN

THE CZECH CAPITAL








Autumn 2021 128 Autumn 2021 129

TOP FIVE SIGHTS:

CITY GUIDE PRAGUE

Charles Bridge

For much of the day, the 14th-century pedestrian connection

linking Stare Mesto and Mala Strana is thronged with buskers,

beggars, caricaturists and tourists. So, if you can, stroll its

length late at night or before breakfast, when you’ll have just

the bridge’s blackened statues for company and an unimpeded

view of the castle etched on the skyline. In the warmer months

you can climb up into the old bridge towers.

Prague Castle

Encompassing a series of interconnected courtyards, lovely

gardens, the Gothic St Vitus’s Cathedral, the medieval

cottages of Golden Lane (where Kafka briefly lived), plus

many other historic buildings and several museums, the

massive complex requires half a day to do it justice. Don’t

miss the Story of Prague Castle, a permanent large-scale

exhibition that opened last year in the Old Royal Palace.

During the day, the castle is always mobbed. To truly

appreciate its haunting Kafkaesque quality, return in the

evening. You do not need a ticket to access the courtyards,

which stay open to midnight (11pm in winter).

St Nicholas Church

This is the grandest of Prague’s many baroque churches and

was built in the 1730s. It has an over-the-top interior and

monumental dome decorated with hundreds of golden cherubs,

swooning virgins and elaborate trompe l’oeil frescoes.

Strahov Monastery

Other than to escape the castle-going crowds, the prime reason

for visiting the Premonstratensian monastery is to gawp at

the library – its frescoed and booked-lined Philosophical and

Theological halls are glorious, ornate wonders. Elsewhere,

there is an impressive display of religious art. Return to the

city centre via the idyllic orchards below the complex.

Jewish Museum

Prague’s Jewish quarter, the Josefov, is now an elegant

neighbourhood of art nouveau buildings and designer shops

and cafés. The museum is spread over five synagogues

dotted around the quarter, only one of which – the Old-New

Synagogue – is still used for religious services. The rest are

exhibition centres and contain a huge collection of artefacts

that movingly tell the history and persecution of the Czech

Jews. It also includes the Old Jewish Cemetery, a forest of

12,000 lopsided tombstones squashed into an improbably

small plot of land. Try to visit first thing: by mid-morning,

everywhere gets swamped by chattering tour groups.

Autumn 2021 131

TOP FIVE RESTAURANTS:

Kampa Park

Opened in 1994, this is one of Prague’s most reliable (and

expensive) top-end restaurants and seems to have been visited

by virtually every celebrity that has visited the city, from Mick

Jagger and Johnny Depp to Bill and Hillary Clinton. Come, as

they do, for beautifully presented Mediterranean-flavoured

dishes, the prime riverside location overlooking Charles Bridge

(alfresco dining possible), and unusually excellent service. www.

kampagroup.com

CITY GUIDE PRAGUE

Palffy Palac

This has one of Prague’s most romantic dining-rooms, with

twinkling candelabras and gilded chandeliers, inside one

of Mala Strana’s enormous baroque palaces. Though the

Czech/multinational food is rather over-complicated, the

surroundings are unbeatable. A terrace (open in summer)

has beautiful views over the castle walls. www.palffy.cz

Hergetova Cihelna

This is the less starchy and more affordable sister restaurant

to Kampa Park (see above). Although it does not attract the

big names in the same way, it is hugely popular with Prague’s

young affluent crowd. Also in a prime spot by the Vltava,

with an open-air riverside terrace, its menu concentrates on a

hybrid of French and Italian dishes (foie gras pizza, anyone?),

but there are some Czech options, too, such as potato soup

and suckling piglet, as well as decent burgers and stir fries.

www.kampagroup.com

Kolkovna

The art nouveau-styled Kolkovna is as close as Prague gets

to a gastropub. It’s a stylish version of a traditional beer hall

and a good choice for sampling classic Czech fare, such as

pheasant thighs and boar chops. Portions are on the hearty

side and the goulash soup, served in a hollowed out loaf

(£1.60), is a meal in itself. Service is friendly and brisk.

www.kolkovna.cz

U Medvidku

This is the real McCoy, a classic Prague beer hall that

offers a great night out in authentic surroundings. Though

its cavernous dining-rooms are packed with tourists, many

of the communal tables are occupied by locals, who have

probably been eating here for years. The traditional Czech

dishes – venison meatballs, pork neck with cabbage – are

good, filling and incredibly cheap: a plate of goulash and

dumplings costs just £2.50. www.umedvidku.cz

Autumn 2021 132

Prague is famous for its

tasty Trdelnik pastries.

Autumn 2021 133

TOP FIVE HOTELS:

Mandarin Orient

Opened in 2006 but already one of Prague’s top five-star

hotels, this heavily modernised complex dates back to the 14th

century, when it was a monastery. Its strengths are its quiet

but central Mala Strana location, faultlessly obliging service,

super spa (built over the visible remains of a Gothic church)

and supremely comfortable bedrooms. www.mandarinoriental.

com/prague

CITY GUIDE PRAGUE

Aria

This stylish, small-scale Mala Strana hotel, which spreads

through three Baroque buildings, has a musical theme.

Bedrooms are designed according to musical genres

(classical, opera, contemporary, jazz), and each comes

with appropriate tunes loaded on to a computer. There

is a superbly stocked music library, and a well-informed

“musical director” to advise on, and fix tickets for, concerts.

www.ariahotel.net

Maxmilian

This good-value hotel was designed by a leading Czech architect,

Eva Jiricna. Bedrooms are sleek and Cubist influenced, while

public areas, such as the glass-walled library and drawing room

with a help-yourself honesty bar system, are striking yet relaxing.

The location, on a cobbled square on the edge of the Old Town’s

upmarket Josefov quarter, is excellent. www.maximilianhotel.

com

Dum U Velky Boty

The discreet establishment, whose name translates as the

House of the Big Boot (there is no sign) is one of Prague’s

best B&Bs. Occupying an ancient building on a cobbled

Mala Strana backstreet, it offers a dozen bedrooms full of

antiques and art, many of which are family heirlooms of

the charming owner, Jan Rippl. The good breakfasts can

be eaten communally with other guests if you wish. www.

dumuvelkeboty.cz

Castle Steps

An unusual, dynamically run set-up, spread over six buildings

that are dotted along Nerudova and Uvoz streets, the main drags

through Mala Strana up to the castle. The accommodation ranges

from simple rooms with shared bathrooms to vast apartments with

their own kitchens. Standards are higher than the low rates suggest

and many units have enormous character, as well as gorgeous

views over Petrin hill. www.pragueroom.com

Autumn 2021 134

CITY GUIDE PRAGUE

Shopping

Along with moody Kafka T-shirts, Czech-made glass and

wooden toys are good buys. The fanciest Bohemian crystal,

used by royalty, is at Moser (main branch at Na Prikope 10).

For exquisite contemporary glass objects created by leading

Czech designers, visit Material at U Luzickeho seminare 7.

Blue Praha sells striking but much more affordable modern

glass. For wooden tops, mobiles, puzzles and figures on springs

and wheels, head for branches of Manufaktura and the daily

outdoor market on Havelska. A good shop for string puppets is

Obchod Pod Lampou, at U Luzickeho seminare 5.

Night Life

On any night there are any number of classical performances in

churches and fabulously ornate concert halls such as the neoclassical

Rudolfinum and art nouveau Obecni dum.

The agency Bohemia Ticket has full details of forthcoming

concerts, and online booking, on www.bohemiaticket.cz, as

well as helpful staff at its office at Male namesti 13. Prague

also has a strong jazz tradition.

One of the best venues is U Maleho Glena (Karmelitska 23;

www.malyglen.cz). For those who want to party, Radost FX

(Belehradská 120; www.radostfx.cz), a cafe/lounge/nightclub,

has long been one of the most fashionable places to head for.

Bars & Cafes

For a traditional Czech pub, head for U Cerneho vola

(Loretanske namesti 1), just above the castle, and Baracnicka

rychta (Trziste 23), on a Mala Strana backstreet. Local drinkers

outnumber tourists in both establishments.

Prague has several splendid grand Viennese-style coffee

houses. Kaverna Obecni dum (Namesti Republiky 5) is an

opulent art nouveau café of ballroom proportions, where they

wheel around a trolley laden with cakes.

The art deco Slavia (Smetanovo nabrezi 2) is one of Prague’s

great focal points: now full of courting couples and shoppers,

famously Vaclav Havel used to drink here.

One of the best post-Revolution coffee shops is The Ebel Coffee

House, on cobbled Tyn, the old town’s prettiest courtyard. For

a trendy cocktail bar try chic, buzzy Tretter’s (V kolkovne 3),

or the Blue Light (Josefska 1), a funky, ex-pat hangout with

graffiti-covered walls.

Getting There

Flights to Prague start from £35 each way.

See www.britishairways.com.

Currency

The currency in Prague is the Czech Crown (czk).

Czech bank notes are issued in the following denominations:

100/200/500/1000/2000/5000. Some hotels, shops and

restaurants accept Euros as well, but many only take Czech

Crowns. 1 Czech Koruna equals 0.035 British Pound.

Autumn 2021 137

20 JOURNEYS

TO CHANGE

YOUR LIFE

THE POST PANDEMIC

BUCKET LIST

The people we’ll see, the places we’ll go, and all the once possible, now

restricted adventures we’ll have once again! We have compiled ideas for 20

journeys that could change your life, all you need to do is go online, follow the

research and plan your adventure.








Autumn 2021 138 Autumn 2021 139

20 JOURNEYS

1SPEND SIX MONTHS

EXPLORING ASIA

Sometimes you seriously need to get

away, and holidays don’t come much

longer than a 28-week ‘Ultimate

Asia’ adventure. Starting in London

and taking a winding route east to

Bangkok, an epic group trip that

crosses 12 countries, ticking off a

score of see-before-you-die sights

including the Pyramids, Petra, Jaipur,

Great Wall and Angkor Wat. This trip

will cost you upwards of £6,465 per

person, including accommodation,

transport and most meals. You’ll

likely travel mostly by purposebuilt

expedition vehicle with only

42 nights spent in hotels. For most

of the time you’ll sleep in tents on

campsites or out in the wilds. You

could even add an extension to your

journey that takes you south from

Darwin to Sydney via the Outback.

2 3 4

HAVE A METROSEXUAL

MAKEOVER IN MIAMI

Are you the type of man who likes

to embrace your feminine side? Or

maybe you know a bloke who needs

a bit of sorting out? Available at

selected Loews Hotels in New York,

Miami and Los Angeles, the Metro

Man package promises to make a

man ‘more dashing and attractive’

in just 24 hours. That could be a

tall order, which explains why so

much gets packed into one day. The

improvements start at check-in when

guests are handed essential manly

items such as a book on etiquette and

a cocktail shaker. The hotel chef then

provides a two-hour, palate-refining

meal with advice on cooking,

wine and mixing drinks, while the

concierge chips in with some advice

on how to conduct yourself socially.

Next comes a grooming session,

including a manicure, haircut and

shave, then a consultation with a

personal shopper from Barneys or

Saks Fifth Avenue to sort out the

wardrobe.

GET FIT IN THE WILDS

OF COSTA RICA

For something more radical, try an

intensive work-out on a Kenyan

beach with Wild Fitness. It was set

up by Tara Wood, a personal trainer,

who believes in promoting wellbeing

through natural movements rather

than working individual muscles in

isolation, as some gym machines

and exercise classes do. The idea is

to awaken the agile animal inside us

by recalling the primal movements

that helped us evolve as a species.

Get ready to squat, bend, push,

pull, twist, lunge and run. This is

not a boot camp, and the open-toall

activities are supportive rather

than competitive, with posture

assessments, yoga and nutritional

advice included. Coffee and alcohol

are discouraged but dispensed

without disapproval if required.

CLIMB K2

(WELL, ALMOST)

Things look different when you’re

high. At 8,616 metres, K2 is the

second highest peak in the world,

and a trek through the mountainous

wilds of northern Pakistan to see it

up close will certainly blow away

the mental cobwebs. It’s also an

arduous Grade 1 expedition, which

means long, hard days and camping

above the snowline, with strenuous

trekking experience essential. A

25-day expedition in July climbing

the Gondogoro La Pass then

descending to K2 base camp will cost

you upwards of £2,295 per person

including flights and

accommodation.

Autumn 2021 140

20 JOURNEYS

5STRETCH YOUR

MIND ON A SPANISH

MOUNTAIN TOP

Once we went on holiday just

to take a break. Now you can

sort out your whole life while

slopping on the sun cream. In

the Picos de Europa, northern

Spain, you could go on a lifeplanning

holiday in conjunction

with The Big Stretch. Available

in May, June and September,

they are aimed at ‘busy

achievers who need to step

back’. Group size is limited

to eight, combining intensive

thinking sessions with uplifting

mountain walks. A follow-up

Keep Stretching programme of

six one-hour sessions is also

available.

6

WRITE A BODICE-

RIPPER IN A PINK

SCOTTISH CASTLE

Over the years, ‘Writing

Romance’ courses have been

run at the suitably pink Castle of

Park, near Aberdeen, which sits

in secluded parkland and comes

with a grand drawing room as

well as inspirational four-poster

beds and stags’ heads on the

walls. Courses have been led by

prominent romance writers like

Marina Oliver, author of more

than 4o historical romances.

Dingle Writing Course also

typically take place on autumn

weekends at a seaside retreat in

Inch, overlooking Dingle Bay in

Kerry.

7

8

STRUT YOUR LATIN

FUNKY STUFF

Combine tango and Spanish lessons

in Buenos Aires with Caledonia

Languages. Language lessons in the

morning are followed by dancefloor

instruction at night. Based in the

Barrio Norte district, the tango

sessions include talks and videos

explaining the nuances of this most

passionate of dances, along with

visits to milongas (tango gatherings).

Similar holidays are available

learning salsa in Cuba and Spain.

Dance Holidays offer a week’s line

dancing on a Mediterranean cruise

ship, from upwards of £599 per

person including flights, meals and

accommodation.

HIKE TO THE TOUGHEST

TRAIL IN EUROPE

Crossing the rocky spine of Corsica

from Calenzana to Conca, the GR20

is considered the most challenging

long-distance footpath in Europe.

For most of the 170km trail you walk

above 1,000m in pine forests, over

rocky ridges, past glacial lakes amid

mountain peaks. Walks Worldwide

offer guided group tours. To do it

yourself (it’s cheaper but you’ll carry

your own rucksack), buy a copy of

GR20 Corsica - The High Level

Route.

Autumn 2021 142

9CHANGE CHILDRENS

LIVES IN GUATEMALA

‘I’ve never seen anyone so pleased

to see two packets of Blu-Tack,’

Steph Thorns records in her online

diary about working with children

in Guatemala. The life of this

former hospital project manager was

transformed after she volunteered to

work with indigenous communities

near Antigua, helping in rural

schools where there would otherwise

be no formal education. Steph has

since retrained as a community

health nurse with a view to going

back. Her trip to Guatemala was

organised through the charitysupport

organisation Global Vision

International. Side benefits include

the chance to learn Spanish and

experience South American life. Also

worth considering other possibilities,

including working with a radio

station in Ghana and renovating

schools in Tanzania.

THE ROLLERS

IN HAWAII

Surfing might be a lifestyle, but it

10RIDE

often begins with a holiday. For

an idea of the way it can change

people and what it’s like to be a

newcomer, track down a copy of

Caught Inside: A Surfer’s Year

on the California Coast by Daniel

Duane (Lonely Planet). Hawaii is

where the best waves are, rising

off the coasts of Oahu and Maui

to heights of 70 feet. You’ll need

at least 10 years of regular surfing

before you can master the crazy

rollers of Waimea Bay. In winter

the waves have to be seen to be

believed but in summer, even

novices can try their luck. Other

destinations include Woolacombe.

20 JOURNEYS

A SAINT

TO THE ANIMALS

INTO THE TURKISH IN THE KALAHARI DESERT

WILDERNESS

Sitting in the Kalahari desert

11FOLLOW

12TALK

Follow in the footsteps of St Paul

counting meerkats is one of your

through the wilds of Turkey’s

options among the 140 scientific

Taurus and Sultan mountain

and conservation projects organised

ranges, with ancient ruins and

worldwide by the charity Earthwatch.

dramatic peaks and canyons

On a two-week expedition to the

along the way. A new 500km

Kuruman river in South Africa

footpath traces the apostle’s

you can help ecologists study the

missionary journey from Perge

exceptionally co-operative lifestyles

on the Mediterranean coast to

of these mongoose-like creatures.

Yalvac, near Antioch, overlooking

Volunteers stay in thatched huts,

the Anatolian plateau. It’s been

working in small teams, and there’s

created and waymarked by

plenty of spare time to appreciate

Englishwoman Kate Clow. Even

the wonder of the desert. Other

more ambitious is the 1,000

expeditions available include joining

mile Via Francigena linking

marine naturalists on a 39ft yacht

Canterbury and Rome. This

studying basking sharks in the Inner

is a DIY pilgrimage - no tour

Hebrides, helping conservationists

operators run packages - but you

monitor macaws in the Peruvian

can find route maps, information

Amazon, and tracking zebras by

on accommodation and support.

four-wheel drive vehicle in the

Samburu district of Kenya as part of

an initiative to limit their conflict with

human activities.

THE

TRIBES OF LOAS

Until recently the heart of Asia’s

14MEET

opium growing triangle, northern

Laos is the HQ for the Unesco

Namtha ecoproject to provide jobs

for cash-strapped farmers and ethnic

minorities, and many of Laos’s

68 ethnic tribes live in this area.

Himalayan Kingdoms was the first

UK tour operator to plug into the

project by pioneering a series of

trekking and meet-the-villagers

tours. From the towns of Luang

Namtha and Meung Sing you trek

with local guides up into the hills

and valleys to remote villages.

Among the tribes are the animist

Akhas, whose teenage sons sleep in

their own huts, to which the girls are

brought for trial sex and marriage;

the Black Hmong, identified by their

black clothing, who build stilted

villages on high mountain ridges;

and the Lenten people, who wear

indigo and settle in longhouses in the

valleys.

YOUR HOUSE

FOR A LUXURY VILLA

‘Beautiful three-bedroom house

13SWAP

offered in the rural retreat of Mercatale

near Cortona in Arezzo. Comes with

1,000-year-old olive trees in the garden,

brand new pool, stunning panoramic

views, fantastic local restaurants ...’

Oh yes, all that could be yours by

just swapping homes with the owner.

If you dream of retiring to Italy or

downshifting to that Caribbean beach,

it pays to try a place out first. Holiday

exchanges for a fortnight or more are a

good way to do this. If you’re worried

about the Osbournes moving in, sign

up with a home-exchange agency that

will ease the matchmaking process

for an annual membership fee. The

basic premise is not unlike a TV reality

show - you swap your life, right down

to your bedsheets, for someone else’s.

The main advantage is that you slot

straight into neighbourhood life and

can save money when compared to a

conventional holiday, particularly if you

have children. Note that if you want the

Italian idyll listed above you’re more

likely to be in luck if you’re offering a

Mayfair penthouse than a Basildon semi.

A DESERT

NOMAD IN JORDAN

A BEACH

Forget fake ‘Bedouin’ feasts and

BUM IN GOA

15BECOME

phoney folklore. ‘Riding in Jordan

- The Bedouin Experience’ is a tour 16BECOME

With the average house in the UK worth

which will show you the desert as around £284,029, there’s a tempting

it really is: harsh, bleak, forbidding case to sell up and live like a king or

and magical. Setting out from Wadi queen elsewhere. Palolem, in Goa,

Rum on spirited Arab horses (riders India, is a palm-fringed crescent beach

should be reasonably experienced where you can rent a thatched hut with

and confident) you’ll head south bamboo beds, bathroom and veranda,

towards the Saudi border, exploring from around £15 a night. With meals

deep canyons flanked by immense next to nothing locally, you could sit

boulders and towering sandstone pretty for 30 years of yoga, curry and

rock fortresses, edging your way sunsets. Other dream-inducing options

along sheer cliffs and galloping include a guesthouse in the medina at

among the dunes and flats on the Essaouira, Morocco, or wooden

best racecourse in the world. En beach huts on Zanzibar.

route you’ll see Bedouin families

who still live as nomads in the desert

with their goats and camels, as well

as historic landmarks described by

Lawrence of Arabia in The Seven

Pillars of Wisdom. Tents for the sixday

trek are fairly basic, and most

holidaymakers prefer to sleep under

the stars with meals served from a

traditional large communal plate.

Autumn 2021 144 Autumn 2021 145

17 18 19

PEDAL ACROSS

VIETNAM & RAISE

CASH FOR OXFAM

Cycle through Vietnam to

Cambodia, safe in the knowledge

that you are not really having

a holiday - you’re working for

charity. You’ll find a wide variety of

challenges where you can combine

exotic foreign travel with raising

money for UK charities. But be

prepared: you’ll cycle at least 80km

a day. Other sponsored adventures

with other charities include a hike

in Egypt and a ‘very challenging’

four-day, 100km run along the

Great Wall of China.

TAKE AN ICEBREAKER

TO THE NORTH POLED

So what did you do with your life?

Well, I did make it to the North

Pole ... Take the icebreaker Yamal,

voyaging north from Murmansk

through the Barents Sea to reach

90° North six days later. This

is one of the few vessels in the

world powerful enough to plough

through five-metre-thick ice to

reach the top of the world. A 16-

day cruise starting in Helsinki will

cost you upwards of £8,462. For

something more spiritual, head

down to Antarctica with its virgin

landscapes and unsullied wildlife.

CAST AWAY ON

CRUSOE’S ISLAND

The Islas Juan Fernandez, 450 miles

off Chile’s Pacific Coast, was where

Alexander Selkirk, the inspiration

for Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe,

was abandoned in 1704 and eked out

a precarious living for four years. It’s

now somewhat easier to reach and

leave, though few Westerners get to

this remote spot. The three islands are

now officially named Robinson Crusoe,

Alejandro Selkirk and Santa Clara, and

in 1977 the whole archipelago of Juan

Fernandez was declared a Biosphere

Reserve, protecting it from further

development. Only around 500 people

live here, mainly fishermen; but they

welcome visitors and will show them

the hero’s legendary cave and take them

trekking up to El Yunque, the island’s

highest (915m) peak where Selkirk lit

his signal fires.

20 JOURNEYS

20

on an entirely different, practically stone-age, world and may put your

FREAK OUT IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA

The Goroka Cultural Show is a ritual gathering where over 100

fabulously feathered tribes come in from the highlands. It’s a window

quest for the latest iPod into perspective. A fully escorted 10-day tour

costs at least £4,295 per person including flights, transfers and most

meals, with the rest of the trip spent touring remote mountain and

jungle lodges and sailing on the Sepik river.

The majestic Galleria Colonna houses masterpieces of

absolute excellence painted by leading Italian artists.

Autumn 2021 146 Autumn 2021 147

IN FOCUS:

THE CARIBBEAN

This sprawling archipelago of tropical islands is a treasure chest

of diverse landscapes, rich culture and undeniable beauty just waiting

to be explored. But where to start?

BARBADOS: PARADISE FOUND

SOMETHING UNIQUE

ISLAND HOPPING

ST LUCIA HOTELS

SECLUDED ISLANDS

HOLA HAVANA

...page 146

...page 152

...page 154

...page 156

...page 164

...page 168








VIVA VARADERO

...page 176

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BARBADOS

PARADISE FOUND

Martin Mason tastes the sweet life in Bridgetown, Barbados

The original Caribbean holiday island — and the most popular for Brits

by a margin — Barbados does that crucial mix of good food, great hotels

and gorgeous beaches better than any other. The most famous of those

beaches are on the west coast, north of Bridgetown, the bit they call the

Platinum Coast — because that’s the kind of credit card you may need to

stay there. The south coast is less glitzy, but has beautiful beaches and a

more authentic vibe.

Brownes Beach, Bridgetown:

Horses from the Garrison Savannah are given their early morning wash

Autumn 2021 150 Autumn 2021 151

SWEETFIELD MANOR

BRIDGETOWN,

BARBADOS


When we head off for exotic climes my family and I are

self-confessed lovers of large, fancy hotels but often

the experience can lack authenticity and atmosphere.

Every now and then we get the opportunity to experience

something different. Discreet characterful venues, where luxury

means good company with a unique atmosphere in a quiet,

gorgeous property in a sumptuously serene setting. Welcome to

Sweetfield Manor.

As part of our 10-day visit to Barbados, we stayed here for 5-nights and

experienced the kind of friendly, intimate comfort that large hotels seem unable

to offer. In other words, a place so magical it goes beyond luxury. Here, you don’t

check in; you’re considered a house guest.

Sitting at the top of a hill, Sweetfield Manor is a mere 15 minutes walk from

the historic Garrison Savannah area, in Bridgetown Barbados. It’s a little off

the beaten path, which makes it all the more special when you eventually find

it. Sweetfield Manor is a unique boutique hotel offering exclusive comfort in a

relaxing atmosphere. In short, it’s one of a kind.

Style & character

Sweetfield Manor is centrally located, perfectly situated within lush tropical

surroundings, atop a hill which affords spectacular views over the south coast

of Barbados. Built in the early 1900s, the building is a white-painted, shuttered

plantation house. The décor is a

delightful mix of English provincial and

laid-back Barbadian charm. Guest rooms

and suites combine traditional charm and

local art with unabashedly 21st century

touches: think plush pillows, impossibly

soft linen, flat-screen TV’s, huge rain

showers and L’Occitane cosmetics.

There’s no Spa to speak of but, situated

in the Manor’s lush garden, there’s a

small ‘healing room’ offering manicures,

pedicures and massages. Treatments to

the sound of hummingbirds.

We absolutely loved the lagoon-style

swimming pool, hidden by a hedgerow

of lush, tropical foliage. During

breakfast on the terrace, you’ll probably

see Green Monkeys frolicking in the

trees and you will definitely witness

the resident peacocks strutting royally

across the lawn. Waking up to them each

morning was a real highlight.

Autumn 2021 152 Autumn 2021 153


Rooms

The hotel offers 10 luxury bedrooms in 3 categories :

Plantation, Courtyard and Garden Rooms. Located in

the original main house are three beautifully maintained

Plantation Rooms, which stay true to the original design

of the Manor. Sweetfield also has 3 garden cottages

overlooking the pool. These outside buildings of the

original plantation house have been tastefully converted

and all include a covered patio complete with tables and

chairs.

Surprisingly you won’t find any telephones in the room.

No calling down to ‘reception’, or phoning for room

service. Here, you’re pretty much in charge of your own

stay – a total home from home. This doesn’t mean staff is

non-existent. On the contrary, when you need a helping

hand, someone warm and welcoming magically appears.

Forget smart cards, room keys here are reassuringly

traditional and akin to something that a pirate of the

Caribbean may use to open a treasure chest.

Our rooms were unique and well-equipped: King bed,

contemporary bathroom (with fluffy towels and Bath

Robes) and four poster bed. Whatever room you choose,

you’re sure to sink into a deep and blissful slumber.

Staying here is about immersing yourself in Caribbean

tranquillity, trekking down to the beach and waking up

to the sun warming your terrace. Sweetfield Manor is a

place to completely rethink your whole concept of a hotel

stay – mind, body and soul. It’s also the perfect backdrop

for weddings. Don’t worry; Sweetfield guests can still use

all the facilities during a wedding. Just remember to raise a

glass if the bride walks by.

Food & Drink

Food here isn’t taken lightly. It’s an event. Throughout

the week chef transformed our understanding of what

Breakfast was and it often run to several courses. There

are smoothies galore and fruit plates aplenty. For guests

needing a more hearty start, dishes such as scrambled

eggs and bacon with plantain are served up. If you’re still

hungry (or not), he would rustle up a plate-rattling ‘deserts’

– anyone for a banana crêpe. Lunch and dinner are not

generally included, but chef will gladly prepare a private

dinner with a day’s notice. You can also request a picnic

bag for blissful days on the beach. •

“ ”

Our verdict

Totally unique, warm and wonderful.

A homely hangout at the top of a hill, beautiful view,

20 minutes stroll to the ocean.

Just go, you won’t regret it.

Getting there

British Airways has return flights to Barbados:

www.ba.com

Book Direct at:

sweetfieldmanor.com

Sweetfield Manor:

The Stunning Lagoon Pool

Autumn 2021 154 Autumn 2021 155

SOMETHING UNIQUE

SOMETHING Something Unique UNIQUE

The islands are quite varied

geographically, encompassing

semi-arid deserts (Aruba and

Curacao), lush rainforests (Puerto Rico,

Grenada, St. Lucia and Dominica),

abundant coral reefs and marine life

(Bonaire, Cayman Islands, St. Lucia and

Tobago), and several volcanoes on many

islands.

Perhaps even more startling are the

cultural and linguistic differences.

Spanish is spoken in Cuba, the

Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico;

French in Guadeloupe and Martinique;

English in Antigua, Barbados, Jamaica,

Trinidad, Virgin Islands; and Dutch

in the ABC Islands and St Martin, not

to mention Creole in St Lucia, and

Papiamento (a mix of Spanish, Dutch

and African languages) in the ABC

Islands.

In Jamaica, you’ll no doubt meet some

of the island’s dreadlocked Rastafarians,

and if you seek them out, the lesserknown

Maroons . The long secretive

Maroons – descendants of escaped

slaves – live in small communities in

often hard to reach parts of Jamaica’s

mountains and forests. They continue

to maintain a semi-independent status

in the country – a hard-won status that

was secured centuries earlier from the

colonial overlords. Within the past year,

some Maroons have begun to share their

traditions and culture such as songs,

drumming and woodcarving with visitors

as a way to earn income and safeguard

their future.

Some islands have a particular claim to

fame: Grenada is known as the Spice

Island (tour a nutmeg processing plant

and visit spice plantations); Trinidad is

renowned for its pre-Lenten carnival

(you can even buy a costume and

‘play mas’); while Bonaire is popular

among divers. And a few islands are

closely associated with certain styles of

music: reggae in Jamaica; merengue in

the Dominican Republic; salsa, son,

rumba, trove and more in Cuba; calypso

and soca in Trinidad; and zouk in

Guadeloupe and Martinique.

Autumn 2021 156

Autumn 2021 157

Island

Hopping

ISLAND

HOPPING

ISLAND HOPPING

To sample several islands in

one trip, consider the following

destinations, which offer quick

and easy access (ferry or plane) to

nearby islands. From St Martin (one

of the more cosmopolitan Caribbean

destinations) it’s fairly easy to get to

three very different islands – Anguilla,

Saba, and upscale St Barths.

Another option is to base yourself in the

beautiful but lesser visited St Vincent

and make forays out to see some of the

32 islands that make up the Grenadines

using inter-island ferries or on a day tour

(Bequia, Canouan, Mayreau, Tobago

Cays, secluded Petit St Vincent, and

the private island of Mustique are good

choices).

Or visit one of the dual island nations

– Trinidad and Tobago; Antigua and

Barbuda; or St Kitts and Nevis, which

have frequent and quick transportation to

their smaller and quieter sister islands.

Follow your own route between the

idyllic island gems of the Caribbean.

With so many different island nations,

traditions, cultures and cuisines to

explore, the team at

mycaribbeanholiday.co.uk can put

together your own bespoke combination

of Caribbean destinations and create

the most fascinating island hopping

experience. Some islands such as St.

Kitts and Nevis are only a quick boat

ride between each other, while other

trips will combine the Windward Islands

of Grenada or St Lucia with the more

northerly island of Antigua, all easily

connected by a short flight.

Contact their Caribbean experts on

0208 290 9751 to put together your

perfect Caribbean combination.

Autumn 2021 158

Autumn 2021 159

St Lucia

Best Hotels

ST LUCIA

BEST HOTELS

ST LUCIA BEST HOTELS

Unlike more developed Caribbean Islands, such as Aruba and the Bahamas,

the sparsely populated island-nation of Saint Lucia still maintains a sense of

unspoiled, exotic beauty. Its landscapes of pristine beaches and mountainous

terrain are among the most stunning you’ll find anywhere in the Caribbean. Here is

our selection of the best places to stay in St Lucia.

Famed for its dramatic peaks and volcanic beaches, St Lucia is now - finally - upping

its game on the hotel scene with distinctive escapes to get excited about, we have

selected five of the best.

LADERA HOTEL, ST LUCIA

LADERA: bright, local, castaway

charmer

This hotel is in one of the most

incredible locations in the Caribbean,

high on a hillside with direct views

of the dramatic V formed by the

Pitons. Ladera is a collection of

architecturally unassuming wooden

structures angled to maximise the vista

(modestly described as ‘views with a

room’). It’s a quiet place with a fairly

formal restaurant-bar, and there are

never many people around. But then this

hotel is all about romance, and guests

tend to hole up in their rooms: big,

open-air Swiss Family Robinson-style

fantasies with polished teak floors, rope

swings, outdoor showers and carved

four-posters.

There are plenty of eccentric (some

might say kitsch) touches such as conchshell

taps, bright mosaics and carved

stone fish around the private plunge

pools. Ladera is over 20 years old, and

it’s starting to show, but the rooms are a

lot of fun, provided you’re comfortable

sharing them with geckos, birds and, at

night, insects. The property doesn’t have

its own beach (there’s a shuttle to the

ones at the Viceroy and Anse Chastanet),

so it’s best for those who are happy to

savour the view rather than sun on the

sand.

ROOM TO BOOK The Hilltop Dream

suites are the freshest and most private.

www.ladera.com

PRICE Doubles from £371

Autumn 2021 160 Autumn 2021 161

SUGAR BEACH VICEROY RESORT ST LUCIA

SUGAR BEACH, A VICEROY

RESORT: full-on beachfront

glamourpuss.

Sugar Beach is set in 100 acres in the Val

de Pitons, and was originally developed

by the madcap Lord Glenconner of

Mustique fame. But don’t expect any

signs of its past: the new owners have

given it a stylish, contemporary gloss,

particularly in places like the Palm

Court Lounge, with its day beds and

smart black-and-white marble floor,

and the Cane Bar, where speciality

rums are poured at a gleaming, glassand-resin

counter. Rooms are fresh,

with white wood-plank walls and

slip- covered sofas. This is more of a

full-throttle hotel than others on the

island, so there’s a dive centre, an

adorable kids’ club, a butler service and

a terrific spa by a stream amid the trees

(very Ewok Village). There are two

brilliant restaurants: the more formal

Great Room, which serves zippy dishes

including striped bass with bok choy and

carrot-cardamom sauce, and Bayside

Restaurant on the beach for tuna burgers

and grilled flatbread with pancetta. But

the real draw is the miraculous setting

on a gorgeous stretch of (yes, it’s true)

sugary sand right between the Pitons.

ROOM TO BOOK For easy access

to the water, a Luxury Beachfront

Bungalow.

www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com



Autumn 2021 162

HOTEL CHOCOLAT BOUCAN ST LUCIA

HOTEL CHOCOLAT BOUCAN:

young, cool, urbane scenester.

St Lucia’s newest hotel is on the 18thcentury

Rabot Estate where the owners

run a cocoa-growing project with local

farmers. It’s essentially a restaurant with

rooms showcasing Boucan, a lovely,

open-air pavilion where all the recipes

(cacao-nib-crusted pork fillet with mint

sauce; spicy curried chicken breast

in coconut-and-cacao-nib sauce) use

cacao or chocolate. It might sound like

a gimmick, but Boucan is probably the

best, and certainly the most interesting,

hotel-restaurant on the island. (It’s also

one of the few where you can get a

well-made cocktail.) The ebony-andwhite

rooms have vaulted ceilings,

draped four-poster beds and really smart

bathrooms. Best of all, they have headon

views of Petit Piton. The hotel doesn’t

have a beach, so there are all sorts of

things to keep guests happy, including

a lovely spa. With its cool, urban vibe,

Hotel Chocolat is designed for younger

travellers, the kind who explore by day

and stay up late mingling

at the bar; it’s a refreshing change of

pace on the island.

ROOM TO BOOK A spacious Luxe

Lodge room.

www.thehotelchocolat.com



Autumn 2021 165

CAP MAISON HOTEL ST LUCIA

CAP MAISON: trusty gem with top

service.

On a headland in the far north of St

Lucia, Cap Maison can feel a little

remote, unless you’re an avid golfer,

in which case its proximity to the

island’s one 18-hole course is the only

recommendation you’ll need. Designed

in a kind of Tuscan-Andalucian style

(clay-tile roofs, exposed beams,

splashing fountains and plenty of

wrought iron), it’s a quiet, gated

community of privately owned villas

with individual apartments rented out to

paying guests. The lovingly maintained

grounds are redolent with jasmine,

frangipani, oleander and hibiscus.

Because they were intended for longterm

use, the rooms are large and very

comfortable (if a bit bland). They also

have proper kitchens, separate living and

dining areas, and (unusual for St Lucia)

TVs. Some rooms have private pools;

all have big terraces with lovely sea

views. Young couples seem to flock to

Cap Maison: there’s a gorgeous, twotier

pool and a Champagne zipline that

will carry a bottle of bubbly down to a

private dining platform on the water. But

perhaps the best reason to stay here is the

staff, who are among the friendliest and

most efficient on the island.

ROOM TO BOOK Ground-floor rooms

have pools but are less private; those

on the top floors have secluded roof

terraces.

www.capmaison.com



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Carribean

SECLUDED Secluded ISLANDS Islands

& OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACKS

& Off-The-Beaten-Tracks

SECLUDED ISLANDS

If you want a place to unwind and

don’t care much for sight-seeing,

consider the smaller islands in and to

the south of the Lesser Antilles, such as

Tobago, Barbuda, and Anguilla. Many

are free of fast food chains, casinos,

cruise ships, jet-skis and mass tourism;

they just boast fabulous beaches and

some of the best restaurants in the

Caribbean.

If the words quaint and charming sound

appealing, try Bequia, Nevis, Montserrat

and Saba (where by law all the homes

and buildings are painted white, with a

red roof and green shutters). For more

upscale seclusion, the Caribbean has

plenty of private or secluded islands

from which to choose. The Grenadines

alone has Mustique, secluded Petit St

Vincent, and the five uninhabited islands

of the Tobago Cays.

Necker Island

Barbuda

Tobago

On Necker Island (owned by Sir

Richard Branson) in the British Virgin

Islands, you could spend the day all

alone or potentially rub shoulders with

rock stars or A-list celebrities.

Other secluded hideaways can be found

on more affordable islands including

Tobago and Barbuda, where you can

easily find a gorgeous, deserted beach to

call your own.

With 7000+ islands, the Caribbean has

more than a few off-the-beaten-track

possibilities. These are some places

with few tourists where tranquility reins

supreme: Anguilla, Barbuda, Bonaire,

Carriacou, Dominica, Nevis, Montserrat,

Saba, St Eustatius, St Vincent and the

Grenadines, Tobago, the Turks and

Caicos (except Providenciales), and

Vieques Island in Puerto Rico.

Lodging options on these islands include

resorts (the most popular), inns and

B&Bs. Condos, time-shares, and villas

generally offer more space, kitchen

facilities and are ideal for families or

groups of friends. They can often be

less expensive than hotels, especially if

travelling with a group. The whole island

of Montserrat is basically off-the-beatentrack

– there are several villa options,

many of which offer good value and

some have pools.

Necker Island

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BUCKET Bucket List LIST Places PLACES to Visit in TO the

VISIT IN THE CARIBBEAN

Caribbean

The Caribbean is a vast collection of countries, islands and reefs;

warm almost year-round it is a paradise for those who enjoy boating,

diving, snorkeling and all manner of outdoor activities as well as those who are

simply in need of a place to relax. Drawing tourists from around the world, Caribbean

islands are often found on “bucket lists” made by eager travelers We’ve picked our

top experiences that should find prominent placement on your list!

ROSE ISLAND, BAHAMAS

Hire a guide with a boat in Nassau,

preferably High Seas, to take you to

Rose Island and despite the rather short

ride from resorts such as Atlantis – when

you are deposited on the glaringly white

sand beach of Rose Island, Bahamas–

you will feel like you have landed in

another country. The privacy and simple

beauty of this small island make it the

kind of place we dream about when we

think of getting lost for the purposes of

relaxation. The water hits the beach in

shades of turquoise and blue, clear as

glass to a depth that covers your head.

Swim away from your boat and the

shore, with a cold beer in hand, float

on the gentle current, let the sun warm

your face and feel more at peace than

anywhere else in the Caribbean.

JADE MOUNTAIN, ST. LUCIA

Kids under 15 are not allowed at this

resort with sweeping views of St. Lucia’s

UNESCO-protected twin Pitons where

every sanctuary (as the boutique suites

are known) comes with a personal

concierge. Private infinity pools anchor

an open-air layout that is designed to

frame the stunning views, rather than

detract, and bathrooms feature whirlpool

tubs. “Jade Cuisine” created by James

Beard award winning Chef Allen Susser,

can be enjoyed poolside or in-room.

Kai en Ciel Spa offers a hot stone

massage and guests of Jade Mountain

also have full access to the 600-acre

Anse Chastanet estate plus two white

sand beaches and an abundance of coral

life for snorkeling This tops our bucket

list for views and amenities as well as

the guarantee of a romantic, adults-only

experience.

SECLUDED ISLANDS

CANEEL BAY, ST. JOHN

It might have been opened in 1956, but

as the only resort within the boundaries

of Virgin Islands National Park,Caneel

Bay is on our Caribbean bucket list

because in just one resort that is 170

acres there are seven white sand beaches

for guests to enjoy. Whether you do

so by sunfish sailboat, kayak, standup

paddle-board Hobie cat or simply

some fins and a mask, there is no need

to go anywhere else for adventurous

yet relaxing fun in paradise. Of course

it also has four on-site restaurants, so

you will not go hungry either. Because

of the ecotourism focus, there are no

televisions or telephones in the rooms,

making it the sort of destination where

you can really unplug and get away from

the stress of daily life.

ANI VILLAS, ANGUILLA

Frequently awarded “Best Luxury

Villa” by trial sites, these 10,000 square

foot villas on top of a cliff in alreadyexclusive

Anguilla are the amongst

the most luxurious of hideaways in the

Caribbean. Each villa is an all-inclusive

experience, fully staffed with an entire

team that is dedicated to satisfying your

every whim. Maids, a butler, a chef and

even spa personnel are at your disposal

as are bikes, kayaks and a luxury car.

Balconies enlarge the living space of

every bedroom and the villas share a

gym, tennis court and expansive lounge

decks for private sunbathing away from

more crowded beaches. Architect Lee

Skolnick and designer Bonnie Bloom

combined their talents to create one of

the most spectacular private vacation

experiences on the planet but to take it

one step further managers are available

to craft a bespoke itinerary that will

make your stay at Ani Villas truly

unforgettable. If that’s not top of the

bucket list material, we don’t know what

is!

Autumn 2021 170

Autumn 2021 171

HOLA

HAVANA

Visiting Cuba’s sultry Spanish Colonial capital is like

stepping back in time – to all extents and purposes

– its still living around 50 years in the past. But it’s

changing fast: behind the crumbling colonial façades,

boutique hotels, cocktail bars and modern cars are sneaking

in. It hasn’t compromised this magical city yet but

your last chance to step back in time won’t last forever.

By our man in Havana Martin Mason.

Photo credit:

© Julie Paice, Antelope Media and © Sophie Mason





Havana:

Street musicians are everywhere

Autumn 2021 172 Autumn 2021 173

Havana:

The impressive National Capitol Building

HOLA HAVANA

HOLA HAVANA

One of the things that makes Cuba a unique travel destination is that it feels like a piece of

remote paradise that hasn’t been affected by time, in the best way possible. Vintage cars are

omnipresent, and you would be hard-pressed to find a single familiar franchise.

The mishmash of eclectic and colourful architecture—borrowing

from Colonial, Neo-Classical, and Art Deco periods—make it

one of the most visually stunning cities you’ll ever experience,

and the domestic history, unknown to so many, is one that begs

to be told to visitors. Not least adding to the charm of this city

are the people and the live music that take over every and any

empty corner of space.

The city itself is a sight enough – colourful houses, bustling

characters and Spanish colonial architecture – but if you want

to delve even deeper, take a trip to the old town in one of the

authentic 1950s cars. It might sounds cheesy, but it’s really not.

There is nothing like the feeling of riding in a vintage Chevy

with the top down to make you feel like a star from a 1940s movie.

Get a tour with an English-speaking guide so you can really

get to know Havana and its history and ask any questions that

you may have. Yes its a tourist cliché, but the very best kind. Its

thrilling, fun and totally unique to Havana.

Havana:

The Plaza de la Revolution

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Autumn 2021 175

Art & Culture

You will quickly understand why writer Ernest Hemingway,

whose traces are felt all over Havana, fell in love

with the country and its people. Nowhere reflects this

better than El Floridita, a bar and restaurant that became

world-known thanks to Hemingway, who was

a regular customer. The writer has ended up being the

main attraction for tourists from all over the world, who

visit “the cradle of daiquiri” and take their pictures by

the bronze bust. We ordered three rounds of the signature

cocktail and wasn’t disappointed.

Best things to see:

National Capitol Building: Standing tall in the heart of

Old Havana is this impressive building, which was initially

the seat of government in Cuba until after the Cuban

Revolution. It’s currently undergoing renovations, but it’s

definitely worth taking in - plus the surrounding areas are

packed with vintage cars and salsa bars if you want to soak

up local culture.

Revolution Square: The Plaza de la Revolution draws in

crowds of tourists thanks to its impressive landmarks such

as the José Martí Memorial, not to mention the towering

buildings with immense tributes to historical figures from

Fidel Castro to Che Guevara.

The Malecon: Between the ocean and Havana sits this

impressive seawall, which runs from one end of the city

to the other. Havana’s waterfront is one of the most scenic

places in the city. We walked it during daylight to absorb

all the colourful and character-filled buildings that flank it

on the city side.

HOLA HAVANA

Havana:

Old Havana’s eclectic and

colourful architecture

Take a stroll through Old Havana: Colourful buildings,

spontaneous live music performances, cigar shops and hidden

eating spots are just some of the attractions on offer in this

bustling district. By day it’s a sightseeing hotspot - by night,

the bars come alive with salsa dancing and cocktails.

Travel tips:

When to go: Expect year-round sun with average temperatures

of 25C. Watch out for humidity. Peak season is from December

to March and July/August when hotel costs are at their highest.

Cash is king: Don’t rely on ATMs or credit cards. You can’t

change money before you go so take untorn, unmarked euros

or pounds, not US dollars. Most hotels give fair rates and it’s

easier than queuing up at the banks. Cuba has a two-currency

system – Cuban pesos for locals and the CUC for tourists.

Top tip: Tipping is the norm for anyone from porters to waiters

so keep small notes handy. And get some small coins for loo attendants.

Spare loo roll might also come in handy for a variety

of reasons.

Visa: All visitors need a £15 Tourist Card (a form of visa)

which is available from your tour operator or the Cuban Consulate,

167 High Holborn, London WC1V 6PA. My own journey

to obtain the appropriate journalist visa was an eventful as the

4-fabulous days we spent in Havana.

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Where to stay

HOLA HAVANA

We stayed at The Iberostar Parque Central located in a perfect spot opposite Havana’s famous Parque Central. Dressed in Spanish

colonial style decor painted in warm bright colours, there’s plenty of lush greenery, floral arrangements to add colour.

The space comprises the reception and lobby which has a sweeping staircase that leads to the mezzanine floor where the walls are

covered in gorgeous artworks. It is all lit up with lashings of daylight that make its way in through the glass dome of the atrium.

There’s a wonderful bustle of people coming in and out, guests sipping a tipple by the long bar and tourists lounging around on the

sofas with all day food. There’s an air of old school decorum that’s made all the more calm by the all-day live bands who mete out

easy-listening Cuban music from their corner of the lobby.

The roof top pool has sensational views over the city and has

several Jacuzzi’s positioned at the edges especially so you

enjoy the panorama. Live music was constantly playing and the

cocktails are served thick and fast.

The buffet breakfast is a huge spread with various pastries, and

of course cooked breakfast. But the star of the show is the room

itself with its gorgeous mural, impressive pillars and elegant

decor. There are three speciality restaurants that offer lunch and

dinner: Mirabana serving authentic Cuban dishes with a modern

twist, Mediterraneo buffet restaurant and El Paseo Steak

House, a meat, fish and seafood grill. We enjoyed a sample

menu at the latter that was simply delicious and accompanied

by a great wine choice from our waiter.

What you may have heard about the Internet in Cuba is true.

Cuba is probably one of the few countries in the world that

does not have free internet access anywhere in the country.

However, accessing the wi-fi at the Iberostar Parque Central

was straight forward and connection speeds were fine. We easily

got online in the lobby and bedrooms and access codes were

provided upon check in.

We were also lucky enough to visit the Iberostar Grand

Packard which is situated on the Paseo de Prado, the street

that divides central Havana and the city’s old town. Inspired

by the 1950s cars that trundle past, the Packard is ultra stylish,

with iconic signage and sparking crystal chandeliers. The pièce

de résistance is a two-storey terrace with a 276m-long infinity

pool two-thirds up the facade. It looks amazing.

The Packard has four restaurants and two bars . We dined on

the hotel terrace and enjoyed great food and service.

The exceptional panoramic views of the Morro Castel and the

boardwalk made the evening a real highlight of our stay

in Havana.

How to get there:

The easiest route from the UK to Cuba is with Virgin Atlantic,

who offer direct flights from London Gatwick straight to

Havana, with a flight time of approximately 9 hours and

40 minutes. www.virginatlantic.com

Book Iberostar accommodation at:

www.iberostar.com

Thanks to:

The Cuba Tourist Board in London for their assistance in

planning this visit. Visit www.travel2cuba.co.uk

Autumn 2021 179

VIVA

VARADERO

Varadero, located on the sinuous 20km-long Hicacos Peninsula, stands at

the vanguard of Cuba’s most important industry – tourism. its beach is an

uninterrupted 20km stretch of blond sand that is undoubtedly one of the

Caribbean’s best. Martin Mason visited one of its finest resorts.





Autumn 2021 180 Autumn 2021 181

VIVA VARADERO

ROYALTON HICACOS

VARADERO, CUBA

Our journey to discover the charismatic country of Cuba had naturally taken us to the capital

Havana, where we enjoyed a week walking through streets bustling with activity and

immersing ourselves in local culture. Now it was time for something different!

Discussions with the Cuba tourist board in London suggested

spending time in one of the country’s main beach resorts. So, we

put adventure to one side, packed up our panama hats and headed

140km east of Havana to Varadero, the country’s tourist mecca.

After the excitement and energy of the capital, ten days kicking

back and sitting on the beach sounded ideal.

Located on the gorgeous Varadero Peninsula on the northern

coast of Cuba, is the all-inclusive adults only Royalton Hicacos

Resort & Spa. It has a particularly idyllic seafront location with

a pristine soft-sand beach. Indeed, this is a beautiful undisturbed

wide-brimmed ribbon of bright beige sand that curves into the

distance. It is sandwiched between a lush green backdrop and the

lapping of sparkling turquoise waters and dotted with thatched

parasols that throw shade over cushioned sun beds.

The warm Caribbean climate offers sunshine throughout the

year and getting there is a two-hour or so drive from the capital,

passing some simply sensational views.

We arrived on a humid afternoon to a happy welcome, and by

noon the next day we had fallen in love with the place. Our days

at the resort were mostly spent watching stunning sunsets on the

beach, sampling delicious food, drinking cocktails around the

pool and enjoying Cuban music. It’s the perfect place to unwind

and spend a week in paradise.

The lobby is spacious with water features, white-washed

columns, live band music and flowers that together offer a sense

of grandiose yet calm gaiety. There’s a large lobby bar too where

many a pre-dinner cocktail or a just-for-the-hell of it tipple can

be enjoyed. •

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VIVA VARADERO

Stunning Suites

The resort has 404 rooms including Junior, Royal and

Presidential Suites. Our junior suite was complete with

living room and a large balcony. We were delighted to find

a huge bath and a bed that could have slept four people. The

fridge was stocked with local soft drinks and beer, and it was

re-stocked daily. As a Diamond Club guest, we were also

supplied with a range of premium spirits and wine. Moreover,

the room was always cool, clean and the maids surprised

us each day with wonderful towel creations. The rooms at

Royalton Hicacos are located in quiet areas, most of them

overlooking the resort’s lush gardens. It doesn’t feel like a hotel

– more an apartment by the sea.

There are three outdoor pools surrounded by tropical gardens;

quiet pools for quiet moments and a large one with a swim-up

bar where you can drink as many drinks and tipples as you like.

Activities are in full swing every day and anyone can join in

or not. However, you won’t be disturbed with splashes as the

main pool is simply huge. At night the lights shine romantically

on the water and this makes for a lovely stroll.

And of course, there is the stunning, well-manicured beach

which is connected to the resort. It is truly one of the finest that

we have visited throughout the Caribbean. The sea has shallow

waters for quite a way out and with no rocks underfoot it’s easy

to enjoy. There are plenty of loungers and cabanas so you will

be sure to find one. Once settled, waiters from the beach bar are

continuously on hand to refresh your drinks.

The sunsets here are spectacular, so keep your camera handy as

dusk creeps in.

A range of a la carte restaurants

The resort also has five very good a la carte restaurants including the recently refurbished Armadillo, Tex-Mex Cuisine. Our

favourite was the Beach Club Grill where we enjoyed fresh lobster and sea food while listening to the sound of waves and some

lovely live music.

Wi-Fi connectivity at Royalton Hicacos is surprisingly good. Internet across Cuba is regulated by the government, so you need to

buy internet cards which costs 1 CUC (less than £1) for an hour. You can buy as many as you like to access Wi-Fi in the lobby and

many other areas of the resort. However, we found the ten-day internet detox somewhat liberating.

The staff took great care of us throughout our stay with waiters at the restaurants always happy and attentive. Our dedicated

butlers Pedro and Ronald greeted us every day to make sure everything was OK and assist with restaurant and spa reservations.

Sporty types can benefit from the excellent golf service that is included in the Diamond Club package. This includes transport

and green fees at the nearby Varadero Golf Course.

While we did spend most of our days relaxing at the resort reading and sunbathing, we also ventured out on a small adventure. The

resort is located close to the Varahicacos Ecological Reserve, which is home to some interesting natural wonders, including Cueva

de Ambrosio: a historic cave with ancient pictographs and hundreds of bats. Entrance fee is just 5 CUC (less than £5) and you get

a guided tour.

Evening entertainment

There’s a great range of land and water sports included such as

sailboats, kayaks and snorkelling. A highlight of our stay was

a half-day scuba diving trip to nearby Cayo Piedra. Diamond

Club guests can enjoy this as part of their package and

instructors are on hand to provide morning lessons to get you

dive ready.

Evening entertainment is varied, colourful and lively. We

especially enjoyed the acoustic acts who performed in the Jazz

Bar each evening. There’s also a spacious disco for late night

revellers to dance the night away, and a laid-back cigar bar.

The Spa and Beauty Salon are extensive and elegant both

visually and aromatically. It comes with a varied menu of

treatments including facials and massages. The relaxing

couple’s massage that we received was another highlight of

our stay. There are also a few well stocked shops in the resort,

including a pharmacy and a souvenir outlet, so you don’t need

to go into town to buy things like gifts or beachwear.

It’s impossible to go hungry or thirsty at Royalton Hicacos.

Waiters are always on the lookout for people to serve in all the

six bars and various restaurants. Cuba is not known for being at

the top of the gourmet ladder but the food here is delicious.

The buffet offers various cooking stations with meals,

including seafood, lobster, various meats which are freshly

prepared on request.

The Beach Club Grill

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VIVA VARADERO

INTERVIEW

AMAZING DESTINATIONS EDITOR MARTIN MASON SAT

DOWN WITH LORENZO RUBIÓ PLANELLAS, GENERAL

MANAGER, ROYALTON HICACOS RESORT.

Amazing Destinations: How long have you been the General

Manager of the resort and what excited you most about the role

and the property?

SUMMARY

Lorenzo Rubio: I have been Royalton Hicacos General Manager

for 6 months. It is a big opportunity to be the person that can take

decisions and make changes for our guests so that they feel at home

here. Being a leader for my employees is also a big responsibility

for me.

AD: What are the characteristics that define your property?

LR: Adults only resort, personalized service from the beginning to

the end of the stay, butler service included for all guests, room service

included, Scuba diving included for beginners and certified clients,

high standards in food and beverages, recognized beach quality and

qualified staff offering good service.

AD: Have you found a way to stand out in the food and beverage

part of the business and, for Royalton, how important is it that the

all-inclusive properties excel in that component?

Royalton Hicacos:

Bright and expansive reception

LR: Royalton Luxury Resorts are known for offering guests a

gourmet cuisine from around the world and an unique dining

experience. We have 6 a la carte restaurants with different themes

including Mexican, Italian, Seafood, Caribbean and International

food and 1 buffet restaurant. On the one hand, it is important to keep

standards high, in line with the brand and our client’s expectations.

On the other, we have selected a great team of chefs who try to add

new details in our kitchen every day.

Royalton Hicacos:

3 stunning swimming pools

“

The transparency of its waters, the blue tones of the

sea, its white and fine sands make for an unforgettable

resort. For fun in the sun this place is perfect.

”

With a range of activities and entertainment there’s

no excuse to get bored, yet if romance is on the

agenda, there is plenty of scope for that too.

How to get there:

Virgin Holidays: www.virginholidays.co.uk

TUI: www.tui.co.uk

Kuoni: www.kuoni.co.uk

Direct: www.royaltonresorts.com/royalton-hicacos

Special thanks: Andrea Mejia, Royalton Luxury Resorts.

Isabel. D. Jimenez, The Cuba Tourist Board (London).

AD: In a competitive lifestyle segment, how much of a focus does

the spa facilities at a resort like the Hicacos need to be?

LR: The Spa service in a hotel like ours is important as clients are

expecting to enjoy every single minute of their stay, and this is an

important service that takes up their time. We have a personalized and

private spa with everything necessary for our guests to enjoy including

the best masseur’s team. We also offer the steam bath and sauna for all

the hotel clients.

AD: In a connected world hotel guests will always require access

to the internet. Given Cuba’s unique telecoms structure, how far

have you been able to take the technology to ensure this is a nonissue?

LR: We are an innovative brand, and we are making a difference in

the island by having connectivity all over the resort so our guests can

be connected during their stay.

AD: Where are the room rates compared to other Varadero and

Caribbean destinations and where do you see those standing in the

future?

LR: We are an award wining hotel management chain and our

property itself has received numerous accolades. One of our

differentiators is that we provide the greatest value in return.

AD: Given the continued growth in international visitors to Cuba

[over 5% in 2019 year-on year], how is both Varadero and the

Hicacos placed to take advantage of the ‘boom’?

LR: Taking advantage of the growth in international and national

visitors to Varadero, Royalton Hicacos is offering additions to our

guest packages like high class Golf and Diving services. We have

been effectively promoting our product across both European and

domestic markets.

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IBIZA

REVISITED

There is more to this island than its vibrant clubbing scene;

rugged beauty and a charming capital city are just the beginning,

says Martin Mason.

This pearl of an island, rinsed in millennia of history, has many dimensions besides

its reputation as the most vibrant clubbing venue in the Mediterranean. The

third-largest of the Balearic isles is a fascinating mix of up-all-night hedonists in the west,

rugged beauty and isolation in the north, a string of attractive resorts in the east and a

splendid capital in the south – although each of these disparate flanks is decorated with

stretches of sand perfect for lazy, sun-soaked days. And the interior is different again,

awash with pastoral prettiness, all olive groves and swaying cornfields. Records suggest

Ibiza was first settled by Phoenician seafarers as long ago as the seventh century BC – and

it has been deeply coveted since: by the ancient Greeks who came after, coining the term

pityussai in reference to the island’s dense pine coverage; by invading Carthaginians, Romans

and North African Moors; by Spain, into whose grasp Ibiza effectively fell in 1235,

when James I of Aragon wrested it from Moorish control.

Today, the capital Eivissa (or Ibiza Town, to use the name more recognised than the

official Catalan version) clings to the crag that, in medieval times, made it a citadel of real

strength. It is a defiantly Spanish entity, and fabulously cosmopolitan with it. The lively

resorts of Platja d’en Bossa and Platja de Ses Salines are close by, their beaches festooned

with bars that waft chill-out mixes into the breeze.

Ibiza Town’s sublime charms are counterbalanced by the clubs strewn around the resort of

Sant Antoni (San Antonio). It sits above a crescent bay where the never-to-bed can doze

away the daylight – though the west coast’s finest beach may well be the quieter Cala

d’Hort, near the village of Es Cubells. More visitors base themselves in the east, in whitewashed

towns of rich character, such as Santa Eularia – which plays host to twin beaches,

separated by a rocky bluff, and dotted with cafés and ice-creameries.

The north provides dramatic land and seascapes, such as the plunging, sheer-sided form

of Na Xamena Bay, and lovely coves at Benirras and Portinatx.







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CAPITAL CLASS

Though they mainly date to the 16th century, the fortifications of the capital’s Dalt Vila (Upper

Town) hint at their Phoenician and Arab past. Indeed, even in summer, when its alleys

are madly busy, there is a palpable sense of history to the quarter that has been recognised

with Unesco World Heritage status.

Santa Maria d’Eivissa, at the summit of the hill, is a sandstone block, as much defensive

bastion as cathedral – though you cross the threshold into a respectful hush and a whiff of

incense. On the slope below, culture abounds: in the Museu Arqueològic, which takes the

Ibizan story back to the first settlers; in the Madina Yabisa, which investigates the Moorish

era; and at the Museu Puget, which celebrates two local artists, father and son, who crafted

watercolour images of their home island.

Further down, the Ibiza of yore gradually bleeds into the modern town – though there is

pleasing Hispanic ambience to the likes of Carrer de Sa Carrossa and Placa de la Vila, where

small restaurants and shops come in clusters. El Mercado Viejo, on Placa de la Constitución,

sees fruit and vegetables sold in a joyfully antiquated manner. And Placa de Parc seems to be

on permanent siesta.

In this context, Ibiza Town is a fine place to stay. Hotel Mirador, is the flagship, a stately

five-star with just 13 rooms. Doubles from €290 per night (not including breakfast). Similarly

luxurious, but more contemporary in style, the Ibiza Gran Hotel, at Passeig Joan Carles I

has double rooms from €270 a night, including breakfast.

At the other end of the price bracket, the three-star Hotel Cenit, on Carrer Arxiduc Lluis

Salvador, does doubles from €52, with breakfast.

MEET THE NEIGHBOURS

Often overlooked, Ibiza’s sibling isle Formentera lingers two miles south of its big brother.

Largely flat, this 32-square-mile outcrop is easily explored by bike, and projects a calmer

Balearic vibe beyond the peak months of July and August.

Formentera markets itself as “the last paradise in the Mediterranean”, a reasonable point as,

while the other inhabited Balearic islands (Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza) all have airports,

Formentera does not. Plenty of people use their yachts to get here, but having your own boat

is not essential. Ferries set sail from the Estacion Maritima (on Avenida Andanes) in Ibiza

Town, docking at La Savina on the north coast of Formentera. The journey takes between

25 and 35 minutes depending on the operator, but there is otherwise not much to choose

between Balearia, Trasmapi and Mediterranea Pitiusa, whose competition along the route

ensures regular departures.

The island has a network of paths, based on ancient tracks, and now adapted for bikes and

hikes. These 20 “green circuits” allow you maximum opportunity to see Formentera with

minimum impact. Most visitors come for the beaches (such as Platja Llevant in the north,

Platja Migjorn in the south) – which are frequently less packed than their counterparts on

Ibiza. But there is also a noteworthy elegance to Formentera’s villages – La Savina, Sant

Francesc and Sant Ferran in the centre, the tiny El Pilar de la Mola at its south-eastern tip.

IBIZA REVISITED

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GOURMET GRUB

Drop a pin on a map of Ibiza, and it will land somewhere near a commendable culinary concern.

Almost every village comes equipped with a restaurant that mixes the traditional and

the new with aplomb.

Sant Agusti, in the west near Sant Antoni, is scarcely a hamlet, yet still offers Can Berri Vell

– a farmstead eatery that does slow-cooked suckling pig for €17.50. Sant Llorenç has the

family-run La Paloma, where a heavy Brazilian moqueca (fish stew) costs €21.

Sant Carles has an institution in Bar Anita, unpromising of name but hearty of atmosphere

and gazpacho (€7). And at Santa Gertrudis, at the dead centre of the island, several cafés,

ideal for coffee and tapas, are strung around the Placa de la Iglesia.

Ibiza Town has numerous options, but La Brasa is special, its outdoor tables caught beneath

thick branches.

Sa Punta, meanwhile, might be an emblem of Ibiza as a whole. A restaurant on Talamanca

Bay, loosely affiliated with Pacha, it basks in an understated trendiness, but does not neglect

the food – basslines rolling discreetly as you eat wild roasted seabass (€28) while gazing out

across to the yachts that are bobbing at the marina.

IN THE CLUB

Sant Antoni is the key pilgrimage point for those seeking after-dark adventure on Ibiza.

Though surprisingly small in scale, the town is the site of two of the island’s most famous

clubs: Eden, on Carrer Salvador Espriu, and Es Paradis, which lies directly opposite on the

same road.

However, there is more to this west-coast enclave than post-midnight mayhem. Its main

promenade is home to two pre-club institutions – Café Del Mar and Café Mambo – where

crowds congregate at the end of the day to watch the sun set over moderately pricey cocktails

and a merry burble of conversation.

Less dancefloor-focused music blasts out on Carrer de la Estrella, where, as well as offering

swish accommodation, the Ibiza Rocks Hotel hosts major bands in its courtyard. Gigs

take place on Wednesday evenings over 17 weeks each summer, with previous participants

including Arctic Monkeys, Florence and the Machine, Vampire Weekend and Kasabian.

Elsewhere on the isle, the south coast also has two sizeable clubs: Pacha, on Avenida Ocho

de Agosto in Ibiza Town, and Space, at Platja d’en Bossa.

Amnesia, meanwhile, is something of an anomaly – a concrete barn just off Carrer d’Eivissa-Sant

Antoni (the “motorway” that links Ibiza Town and Sant Antoni) near Sant Rafael.

Although Amnesia is forgettably unimpressive from the outside, it opens up into a handsaloft

arena that holds 5,000. While the precise opening and closing dates vary from venue to

venue, the clubbing season generally begins in the first flush of June, and shuts down at the

end of September.

IBIZA REVISITED

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Autumn 2021 193

DESIGNS ON THE INTERIOR

While the Ibizan shore is alive with sun-seekers, the interior might be another world – a rural

realm that deals in small farms, the hum of tractors and the occasional vineyard.

It is worth an afternoon or three, on either two wheels or two feet, especially as would-be

wanderers are given plenty of assistance. In the last three years, an army of signposts has

appeared along lanes and at junctions, marking some 30 cycling and hiking trails that have

been created to showcase the best of the island’s scenery.

IBIZA REVISITED

Of the 30, Route 19, a mountain-biking trail with mildly tricky sections, is arguably the pick,

chiefly because it spears through pine forests to the dramatic lip of Na Xamena Bay. Bikes

can be hired from Ibiza Sport in Sant Antoni for €16 per day.

Trawling the back roads in this fashion allows you to get under the island’s skin – Route

19 also scythes through the villages of Sant Miquel and Sant Llorenç. These outposts are

sometimes so sleepy as to be catatonic, but can also spring surprises. Puig de Missa, a hillock

tucked behind Santa Eularia, pictured above, is a mini version of Ibiza Town in its sharp gradient,

14th-century church and long-distance views. It also has the Museo Barrau, a museum

dedicated to the early 20th-century artist Laurea Barrau, who lived here.

Elsewhere, the Las Dalias Hippy Market, near Sant Carles, is an unconvincing ghost of the

Bohemian swirl that engulfed Ibiza in the Sixties – but there are bargains to be bought amid

the tie-dye, trinkets and hand-made jewellery.

For those who like to wake up to the swish of leaves rather than the whoosh of waves, the

interior also proffers a hotel or two. Can Lluc, slotted into a vineyard near Sant Rafael, is

delightfully rustic – double rooms from €180 a night, with breakfast. Can Curreu, just outside

Sant Carles, plays a similar card, but ups the ante with a spa – from €220 per night, with

breakfast.

Autumn 2021 195

CITY GUIDE

ROME







IN 72 HOURS

If you had to narrow Rome’s many fetching attributes down to one single selling point, it would have to be how effortlessly the

ancient past and the electric present merge everywhere: in its cuisine, its culture, and its hospitality. Because the city is compact and

dense, three days is actually an ideal stay. Work your way from the once-hardscrabble, now thoroughly gentrified streets of Trastevere

across the Tiber and through the gorgeous jumble of the Campo Marzio, then venture out to a less-explored suburb – on foot, or

astride a vintage Vespa with a guide.

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DAY ONE:

CITY GUIDE ROME

STAY: DONNA CAMILLA SAVELLI

We’re not sure it gets better than sleeping in a Borrominidesigned

former convent in Trastevere. Minimalists might

want to check in elsewhere, but if early Baroque splendor

– heavy walnut furniture, dark coffered ceilings, polished

terracotta floors – is your thing, book one of its 78 rooms,

some with views up to the Villa Aurelia. In the morning, you

can enjoy your coffee in the hushed courtyard, planted with

herbs and rosebushes.

EAT: GELATERIA DEL TEATRO

Hidden among the antiques and furniture dealers on a tiny

side street off the Via dei Coronari, Gelateria Del Teatro

is of very modest dimensions for a place that packs such a

delicious punch: the owner used to be a pastry chef, and favors

pistachios and walnuts from Sicily, lemons from Amalfi, and

creative deployment of unexpected ingredients (sage; thyme;

wine grapes).

PLAY: GALLERIA DORIA PAMPHILJ

The Galleria Doria Pamphilj is a near-overdose art high:

packed densely with 17th-century Flemish, Italian, English

and Spanish masters (Velazquez’s famous portrait of Innocent

X – yes, he was a Doria-Pamphilij – hangs here), it also gives

you a window into how the palazzo’d half lives: the private

apartments, in which the family still resides, are open to the

public on certain days of the week.

No other monument in Rome marries the ancient with the

contemporary as aptly, and beautifully, as does the Ara Pacis.

The altar to peace, built by Caesar Augustus in 13 BC, has

since 2006 AD been encased – or showcased, really – in a

masterpiece of steel, glass, and marble designed by Richard

Meier. It hosts rotating photography and painting exhibitions

as well.

EAT: ARMANDO AL PANTHEON

Armando al Pantheon, a stone’s throw from the monument

of the same name, recently had a makeover, bringing its

more than 50-year-old interiors up to speed with the 21st

century. Their new sleekness might have rankled a few oldtimers,

but the Roman standards the Gargioli family turns out

(think artichokes, chicory, oxtail and suckling pig, in various

delectable permutations) still impress with their consistent

excellence.

DRINK: NO.AU

Even in Rome, sometimes a late-night beer – especially if it’s

a craft brew from Baladin founder and Eataly superstar Teo

Musso – can hit the spot. At No.Au, hidden away behind the

Piazza Navona, they also specialize in potato chips: hand-cut

and fried on site, salty and transportingly delicious. (There

are great small-production wines by the glass, and a few other

snacks on the menu, too. But those chips; we’re telling you.

Heaven.)

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DAY TWO:

CITY GUIDE ROME

STAY: DOM

It’s the unbeatable location that sold us on DOM. The dark,

velvet-lined bar and narrow restaurant might not be to all tastes,

but the rooms are sumptuous and light-filled – studies in opulent

silks and linens, brass and stone – and the roof terrace affords

quite a horizon: the rosy dome of Vatican, the Juniculum, and

the myriad terraces of the centro storico.

EAT: PORTO FLUVIALE

Flush at the border of buzzy Testaccio and up-and-coming

Ostiense is Porto Fluviale, a multi-venue tribute to *la

gastronomia romana.*You can drink a good negroni in the bar,

compare the virtues of Neopolitan (doughy crust) and Roman

(thin crust) pizzas in the dual-oven pizzeria, or get versed in

how Romans do nose-to-tail at the charcuterie counter.

Should your carnivore pangs still not be met, head for Monte

Testaccio, and Flavio al Velavevodetto, which is literally

built into the side of the famous ‘mountain’ (actually a hill

of ancient Roman detritus). The rigatoni alla gricia– cacio

cheese, guanciale, and tons of black pepper – is bar-setting;

the polpettehave achieved near-legendary status; and the

abbacchio(roast lamb) with potatoes and broccoli is enormous -

one portion feeds two.

PLAY: MAXXI MUSEUM

Whether or not you’re a Zaha Hadid fan, MAXXI is the face

of 21st century Rome (or at least one of them). The building’s

an opinion divider, but the exhibitions earn universal praise:

the work of William Kentridge, Francesco Vezzoli, Antonio

Citterio, and dozens of others cycle through the exhibition

spaces each year. The courtyard and outdoor café are a great

place for little ones to run off excess energy or bask in the sun.

DRINK: BARNUM CAFE

By day, Barnum Café, around the corner from the Palazzo

Farnese, is a coffee bar; after dark, however, it morphs into one

of the only places in this city to serve truly good cocktails: these

bartenders know their London drys, their single malts, and just

about everything else—but the vibe is 100% Roman.

If wine is your thing, go old-school: two of the most atmospheric

enotechein Rome are a five-minute walk from each other. Il

Goccetto and Angolo Divino both have rustic interiors, walls

lined with top bottles, both big-name and obscure, and glass

counters filled with small nibbles – tramezzini, nice breads,

olives and, at Il Goccetto, a killer cheese plate.

Autumn 2021 201

DAY THREE:

CITY GUIDE ROME

STAY: LUXURY ART HOTEL

The First Luxury Art Hotel may jar a bit on first look – the entrance features some

loud artwork and a piece or two of eyebrow-raising furniture – but the artfullyconceived

rooms, their tone neutral and calming in contrast to the shouty public

spaces, and great-value prices (for such a central location and such genial service)

make up for it, as does the roof bar, which morphs into one of the city’s top sushi

restaurants in summertime.

EAT: SANT’EUTACHIO

The great contention among Rome aficonadoes: where’s the best coffee? Purists

favor Caffe Sant’Eutachio, which is all-coffee-all-the-time: drink your faultless

macchiato, buy your beans, read about the roasting, even – and admire the façade of

the church of the same name while you sip.

Those of a more social bent, though, can be found at Caffe della Pace, deep in the

rioneof Parione, which by day is a conventional café, but by night doubles as a bar,

lounge, and ground zero for flaneurs of all stripes. (The coffee, for the record, is

excellent.)

PLAY: PALAZZO COLONNA

Until recently, you had to be a VIP to access the private galleries of the Palazzo

Colonna, one of the grandest private homes in the city (Colonnas have lived here for

450 years; they’ve been Roman aristocracy for 800). It’s now open to the public, and

stuffed with an artistic patrimony that anywhere else would earn it its own museum

wing: Caracci, Bronzino, Tintoretto, and Veronese are just a few of the all-stars

whose work graces the ornate spaces. Have your hotel concierge book ahead for a

private tour on Saturday.

You know you want to tool around the Eternal City on a vintage Vespa like Gregory

Peck did in Roman Holiday (you know your teenager does). The folks at Scooteroma

Tours know too. You can simply explore the centro storicowith a guide, or you can

theme a four-hour excursion: taste pastries in Trastevere or cheese in the ghetto, for

instance, or follow the trail of the film *La Grande Bellezza.*They also do Fiat 500,

“ape” (a three-wheeled truck like a tuk-tuk) and bicycle tours.

DRINK: STRAVINSKIJ BAR

Some clichés pack a legitimate punch: on a mild Thursday or Friday evening in

spring or early summer, the Stravinskij Bar at the Hotel de Russie is one of them.

Sure, the drinks are fine, but that’s not what you come for: you come for the lush,

terraced garden and the social networking playing out among the Roman glitterati

(level of difficulty: Olympic, though of course, these being Romans, it looks

effortless).

EAT: MARZAPANE

Venture out to the slightly snoozy, northwest-of-central Pinciano district to have a

long lunch at Marzapane: the tasting menus – one of meat, one of fish – draw the

likes of former mayor Walter Veltroni, who’s a regular, as well as the city’s top food

critics, who all rave about its elevated versions of maialino and carbonara.

The majestic Galleria Colonna houses masterpieces of

absolute excellence painted by leading Italian artists.

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BED & BREAKFAST IN

BUDAPEST

If you are looking for lodging facilities, why not choose a bed and breakfast Budapest

accommodation, which promises you great comfort and peace for an unbelievable price?

There are many great family run B&B in Budapest where you can expect to get high level of comfort,

intimacy, relaxation and charm. Check some of the best hotels in Budapest in the bed and breakfast

category and pick the one depending on your requirements and budget.







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BED & BREAKFAST IN BUDAPEST

B&B

Butterfly Home Bed and Breakfast Budapest

This B&B in Budapest is certainly the best choice for everybody

who comes here for business, pleasure or just to relax. Located

in the heart of the city at a distance of only 200 meters from

the famous Vaci Street, the B&B is well-equipped with all the

facilities you can expect within the comforts of your home.

The amenities include Wi-Fi connection, computer, flat screen

TV and coach, refrigerator with water and snacks, bathroom

with big showers to name a few. Don’t be surprised to be

welcomed by professional and courteous B&B owners to the

contemporary and elegant environment of this accommodation

facility.

Lying within an easy reach from the tram and metro facility,

the Budapest B&B is located within a walking distance from

Hungarian National Museum. You can also visit the city centre

or Gellert Baths from here with ease.

If you want to spend a perfect evening, take a walk along the

banks of the Danube in the evening followed by shopping

and dinner in the nearby trendy restaurants and bars in the

neighbourhood, where you can enjoy delectable Hungarian

cuisines and alcoholic beverages.

As per the customers’ reviews, there cannot be any

accommodation better than Butterfly Bed & Breakfast in

Budapest. Right from the staff to the owner, from the rooms to

food, everything is very good here.

“

”

Right from the staff to the

owner, from the rooms to food,

everything is very good here.

Autumn 2021 207

Kapital Inn Bed and Breakfast

Budapest

Located in the 6th district of Budapest

in an elegant 19th century building on

its penthouse floor, this Budapest B&B is

a great place to stay in. Explore the best

historical, cultural and artistic sights of

the city while enjoying the comfort of the

bed and breakfast lodging facility.

The main attraction of this B&B is a 600

square feet terrace where breakfast is

served in a cosy atmosphere. It has got

nice interior exuding sophistication and

modernity. You can expect to receive

24/7 on site service during your stay

here. You can choose between deluxe and

standard rooms here.

Room amenities include central air

conditioning, “Rain Dance” shower for

2 people, complimentary mini bar, flat

screen TV with 75 channels, laptop with

free high speed Wi-Fi, DVD player with

DVD library, alarm clock, hairdryer,

books to read, complimentary laundry

service and house safe for valuables.

There is no elevator in the B&B, which

could be an irritant for some guests.

Other than this everything is so good

about this place that you would like

to stay here every time you come to

Budapest.

Brody House Bed and Breakfast

Budapest

This Budapest B&B offers different

apartments, hotel rooms and houses

modelled and furnished in the style of

Brody House. You would surely enjoy

your stay here, irrespective of the reason

of your visit to Budapest.

Brody house is a unique place, mixture

of a secessionist style building and

a modern looking interior design,

elegantly done by local artists. Every

room is singularly decorated with style

and unusual and marvellous finishing

touches. The staff are very friendly,

attentive and offer a lot of useful

information on what to see, where to eat

and what to do in the evening.

There are often cultural nights and live

music events at the bar club of the hotel.

Brody house promotes international and

local artists by showcasing their work

across their venues, and all the exhibit

works are available for sale. So, if you are

looking for a comfortable, cosy and out

of the ordinary place to stay, Brody house

might be what you are looking for.

B & B Bellevue Budapest

This is a comfy B&B in Budapest, located in

the World Heritage Area, offering a panoramic

view of the Danube, the Fishermen’s Bastion to

the east and the Parliament to the west. You can

easily access Downtown by metro or bus from

the hotel.

The amenities in rooms include air

conditioning, ceiling or table fans, secured &

free Wi-Fi, alarm clock, radio, mini fridge,

hairdryer, TV and cable, private bathroom,

sitting area and desk. Other regular services and

amenities are also available on site. It is a pet

friendly B & B.

The lodging facility lies in the residential area of

the Castle District, in proximity to Víziváros a

central area of Buda where you find everything

you need at hand. From here you can explore

walking the Royal Castle, art galleries, concert

venues, fine dining, live music places, churches

for religious services, Turkish baths and the

great Danube promenade on the Buda side

during your stay here.

This B&B in Budapest offers you all facilities

that make it a favourable option to stay. The

owners of BB Bellevue strive to make each of

their guests feel home, not only with their advice

on what to do or where to go but also with their

friendly and accommodating personality.

BED & BREAKFAST IN BUDAPEST

Trendy Bed and Breakfast

Budapest

This is a very modern and comfortable

Bed and Breakfast alternative located

on Oktober 6. Street. The place is in a

perfect location where you can walk to

the bus stops and train station, attraction

places such as Budapest Basilica, Váci

Utca, the Liberty square, Andrassy

Avenue, the Opera house, the Great

synagogue, the Chain Bridge and

different kind of restaurants in short

distances. Trendy Bed and Breakfast

is an apartment located in an old but well

kept traditional building of Budapest.

Its rooms are spacious, clean, well

equipped and comfortable. The rooms

are decorated in modern style: zebra

room, honeymoon suite, family room

and flowers room to choose from.

There is fast Wi-Fi Internet connection

and breakfasts contain all you need to

start your day with energy.

The only fact that could be considered a

disadvantage for some travellers is that

most rooms have no private bathroom.

A clean bathroom, a restroom, the living

room and the dining room are shared

areas with other guests.

Trendy Budapest is a convenient

choice for those who are looking for

comfort at affordable price.

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GOLDEN AGE

OF TRAVEL

Take an excursion into a world of pure

Golden Age

of Travel

indulgence this Autumn

W

GOLDEN AGE OF TRAVEL

hen you climb aboard the British Pullman train as it

rests by the platform in London Victoria, you take

a step back into time to the era of steam engines, comfort

and elegance. The train is the sister to the Venice Simplon-

Orient-Express - the mere mention of the name conjures

up images of the 1930s, resounding film music and Agatha

Christie’s famous detective, Hercule Poirot.

Everything about the train is what you would expect: superb

accommodation, and space to sit and enjoy one of the best

rail journeys you can enjoy in Britain. The “Golden Age of

Travel” is a circular rail trip through Kent beginning and

ending at Victoria. The journey gives you time to relax and

enjoy the delicious five-course meal served at your table by

the same smart stewards who greeted you on their platform

and showed you to your soft and well-upholstered armchair

seat at linen-clothed tables softly lit by silk lamps.

The food was delicious. It was well-prepared, beautifully served and

difficult to believe that the chefs had managed to be so successful in

the compartment kitchens you can check as you are encouraged to walk

through the train and enjoy the full Pullman experience.

As the train slowed to a halt for a leg-stretch in Whitstable a jazz band

played on the platform and passengers were invited to taste the town’s

famous oysters and wash them down with chilled champagne. In these

days of austerity it is fantastic to lose yourself in a day of indulgence for

a train journey that is all too soon over but like the food is a delightful

lingering memory.

We combined our train journey with an overnight stay at St. Ermins

Hotel in Victoria, a boutique four-star deluxe hotel nestled at the end of a

tree-lined courtyard in the heart of Westminster. The hotels interiors are

an attractive blend of period styles including white Victorian balustrades

and Art Deco furniture and patterns.

Sophisticated rooms also show Art Deco influences, with marble

bathrooms and p-to-date technology, including flat-screen TVs and iPod

docks. With an upscale restaurant and bar, St. Ermins offers high quality

at good value for money in a convent London location.

British Pullman lunch

The Golden Age of Travel British Pullman Lunch for two

costs £620.

The British Pullman lunches are available to end of

November, around two dates per month and usually on a

Friday.

Smart day wear is requested to be worn on board the British

Pullman - no jeans, men may wish to wear a jacket and tie

and passengers are encouraged to enter into the spirit of the

journey by dressing up in 30s’ styles.

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Amazing Destinations Magazine Autumn 2021

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