A Luxury Travel Blog

Europe’s first complete design hotel, Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in the heart of Copenhagen, is to celebrate its 50th birthday.  This unique five-star hotel is as fashionable and interesting now as it was on its opening day on 1st July 1960.  The man behind it all was the famous Danish architect and designer Arne Jacobsen. The SAS Royal Hotel, as it was first called is a 22-storey building greeting you as you step out of the central railway station and within easy walking distance to the sights and sounds of the Danish capital.

Jacobsen’s late Modernist work comes through in the building’s imminent sense of proportion, sense of colour and surface and the importance to details, both outside and in the interiors. This is manifested through the furniture, lamps, fittings and textiles, cutlery, glass and tableware which he designed especially for this hotel.  Among the chairs, The Swan and The Egg are the best known. Both realize the idea and concept of organic form in the use of un-constrained lines. Today the original versions of these are labelled modern classics and fetch very high sums at international auction houses.

On the 20th floor you find the Alberto K gourmet restaurant, named after the hotel’s legendary first director. Here you can eat the excellent cuisine with the cutlery Jacobsen created. It was so futuristic of its time, that Stanley Kubrick used it in his film ‘2001 – A Space Odyssey’. Apart from delicious food in design surroundings, you will also have some of the best views of Copenhagen day and night.

Fashions have come and gone since the 1960s but if you are planning a stay at this iconic hotel, ask for room 606, as this is completely intact and just how Jacobsen created it right down to the panelling, the lamps, the bed and of course – the chairs!

Lugano-based Swiss Diamond Hotel’s recently opened Diamond Medical Aesthetical Centre is offering a new medical treatment in which doctors are able to predict future health problems through a simple blood sample. From the blood sample, doctors are able to understand how certain organs are ageing and from this, can predict possible future health problems and make recommendations on how to prevent them from occurring. The medical centre also offers a wide range of other treatments including laser treatments, botox injections and collagen fillers.

Move over the Maldives and Mauritius… there is a new player in Indian Ocean luxury and it’s coming in the form of a rather unique Mozambique.  Something of a hidden gem, this sparkling coastline has only been visited so far by ‘those in the know’. Powder white sands and azure blue seas abound, but this time it’s less manicured, more remote feeling, and even a little adventurous.

What this new Indian Ocean alternative is offering is summed up by Vamizi Island. Billowing white muslins drape enormous beds, the gentle sea breeze whispers through pretty latticed windows and vast decks surround Robinson Crusoe villas scattered with deep sofas, colonial style chairs and cushion covered day beds…

The beaches are your own, the diving is to die for, deep sea fishing is unrivalled and the privacy is quite spectacular.  No rows of over water bungalows or ‘carefully hidden’ neighbours at Vamizi Island… the villas are 70 metres apart, absolutely private and with the company of weaver birds working over head and monkeys gamboling in front of your villa you will never feel lonely.

Vamizi Island, like most luxury African lodges is also fully inclusive except for scuba diving and deep sea fishing, so unlike other Indian Ocean destinations you will not face an extras bill at the end of your holiday.

Copamarina Beach Resort and Spa in Guanica, Puerto Rico, has recently undergone a renovation of its 106 guest rooms, suites and villas. The upgraded rooms include flat screen LCD televisions, new decor as well as new pool and beach furniture. Weekday specials currently start from $145 a night for a Garden Room.

Hotel Ranga in Sudurlandsvegur, Iceland, a member of Special Hotels of the World, has been recommended by The Sunday Times as the best hotel in the world from which to view the northern lights. The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora borealis, are one of Hotel Ranga’s biggest attractions and can be best seen between the months of September and April.

Hotel Puente Romano in Marbella, Spain, is to host the Andalucia Tennis Experience, part of the Women’s Professional Tennis Tour (WTA) from 3rd to 11th April 2010. The clay courts of the Puente Romano Tennis Club will be staging the second edition of the WTA tournament featuring 32 of the world’s top 100 women tennis players including Serena Williams, Jelena Jankovic, Anabel Medina and Carla Suárez. Former Wimbledon champion Manolo Santana has recently been named as the hotel’s Tennis Club manager.

Badrutt’s Palace has created a last-minute spring snow package for a 4-night stay at St Moritz in the Swiss Alps. It will be a perfect blend of breathtaking view of the Swiss Alps, exquisite meals, and a chance to hit the slopes and explore St Moritz.

4-nights special ­ available between 28th March ­and 6th April 2010. Single room: CHF 1′460.00; Double room for single use: CHF 2′180.00; Double room: CHF 2′600.00

Suite Rates and additional nights are available on request. Above rates include the following services:
- Luxury accommodation for 4 nights
- Sweet welcome in guest the room from our Pastry Chef
- Daily hot & cold buffet breakfast
- Daily set dinner at our funky “Le Bistro” or elegant “Le Restaurant”
- Complimentary refreshment bar, internet access via LAN, newspaper and movie channels,
- Palace shuttle to/from main ski lift Corviglia
- Membership card for King’s Club Package is subject to availability and only available on request.

Price includes taxes, service charge and VAT. Booking code: Best of Spring.

David Beckham’s recent visit to the Mehilainen Clinic for an operation on a torn Achilles tendon, and a subsequent visit from his wife, has put the Finnish city of Turku well and truly on the map, visiting prior to the crowds that are sure to visit in 2011 when the city is a European capital of culture.  Less well known than the country’s capital Helsinki, Turku is located in the South of the country on the banks of the Aura river. The small, medieval city is the starting point for exploring the stunning Turku archipelago, a series of islands perfect for discovering either on one of the many bicycles for hire or by boat or one of the frequent ferries.

The city’s plushest hotel would be the Radisson Blu Marina Palace. Situated on the river the hotel features the contemporary design Finland is well known for and two restaurants the Herttua and the Italian Aurora.  Whilst no doubt the Beckhams will travel by private jet, most tend to get to Turku by Finnair, flying via Helsinki.

Spring is coming and soon its bright days will greet the opening of a new deluxe boutique hotel in the heart of Paris.  Ideally located where the rue Duphot meets the rue Saint-Honoré, Le Burgundy Paris, the new intimate, confidential address brings elegance and delicacy to hotel luxury.  Architects and decorators have crafted a refined, exclusive decor, blending contemporary furniture and luxurious materials while favouring space and light.  Le Burgundy Paris also serves as a veritable showcase of precious and unusual “objets d’art”, and devotes a considerable space to contemporary art.

If you were glued to the TV for the Winter Olympics and wishing you were part of the Olympic party, there’s no need to feel like you missed out. Long after the flame’s been extinguished and the athletes have returned to their home countries, the Olympic spirit is burning bright in Whistler – especially at the village’s only Five-Diamond Resort.  From now until the end of the ski season, Four Seasons Resort Whistler is offering its “Ski with an Olympian” package, which combines luxury accommodations with exclusive access to world-class skiers.

Not only will you get a three-night stay and a three-day lift ticket at Whistler Blackcomb Mountain – you’ll spend one of those days gliding down the runs with a current or former Olympian or World Cup champion. Ask current Canadian Olympian Manuel Osborne-Paradis how to up your speed, or get former Canadian giant slalom gold medallist Kathy Kreiner to give you tips on your turns. Other confirmed participants include Canadian Cary Mullen and American Erik Schlopy, both of whom competed at three Games.

They can’t guarantee that you’ll ski like an Olympian – but they can make sure you ski with one!

The only London hotel suite to feature a private roof terrace with retractable glass roof – making it an unspoiled location for even the most typical English summer day – is making its debut this summer.

Recognised as Soho’s first boutique hotel, Hazlitt’s has become noted for its subtle take on the established traditions of hotel keeping. Behind its Frith Street exterior lays a refuge from the frantic pace of metropolitan life. At Hazlitt’s each bedroom is named after an historically famous local resident as the décor then reflects the characters of their namesake.

Hazlitt’s has recently been extended by eight rooms. One of the newest of these bedrooms is the distinctive Duke of Monmouth suite which boasts a private roof garden complete with sliding glass roof – possessing views over Soho’s rooftops the suite is an idyllic location for stargazing and entertaining friends.

The Duke of Monmouth suite’s masculine undertones draw on rich hues, oak panelling and voluminous curtains. While guests are not busy spotting London landmarks from the roof they can unwind in the seemingly bottomless rock n roll style bath which invites inhabitants to while away the evening with a long relaxing soak.

The Duke of Monmouth was born James Scott, who was the illegitimate son of Charles II. He was recognised by Charles as his son but the King did not make him his heir, instead bestowing on him the title Duke of Monmouth. He built Monmouth House in Soho Square, the buildings that make up Hazlitt’s were built on part of the site of the house after it was demolished. After the death of his father, the King, Monmouth led a rebellion against his uncle and declared himself King. He lost the battle of Sedgemoor and was then beheaded on Tower Hill. It is said it took eight blows of the axe to sever his head.

Situated in a quiet backwater off Soho Square, the discreet townhouse bolthole is a refuge from modern London. Dating back to 1718, Hazlitt’s has been meticulously restored and crafted to offer guests an overnight stay seen by London’s 18th century aristocracy. Quaint staircases, exquisite antiques and oil colours are subtly married with today’s technology; all rooms benefit from air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, a flat screen television, Blu-ray player, stereo, mini bar, safe, antique desk and REN toiletries.

Toronto is the perfect destination for urban adventurers this spring. Whether hiking through Toronto’s best scenic trails or lively shopping districts, this year-round city rings in the season with heart-warming festivals, captivating cultural events and fun attractions. Come and see for yourself why Toronto is a celebrated cultural and entertainment capital of Canada.

1. This year Toronto’s Canada Blooms (17th-21st March 2010) theme is “Passions” and honours the energy, innovation and passion for excellence of Canada’s landscape and floral industry. In 2010 visitors can explore over 20 new display gardens presented by premier landscape designers and architects as well as browse the new Garden Travel Section featuring countries that include Ireland, Spain, Czech Republic and many Caribbean Destinations.

2. Celebrate Victoria Day weekend (22nd-24th May 2010) at Ontario Place with its annual fireworks on the waterfront. The Festival of Fire is back with world-class fireworks choreographed to the world’s finest music over 3 nights on July 1, 3 and 10. Additional entertainment surrounds each day, with entertainers performing throughout the park leading up to the fireworks. The shows start at 10:30pm, each night. Dates are subject to change.

3. Located adjacent from The Fifth Social Club, Toronto’s most renowned nightclub Cabin 5 has become one of Toronto’s newest hot-spots with its instant success upon its launch in September 2009. With part Aspen chic and part settler’s cabin decor, Cabin 5 promotes a feeling of welcome and good times. Furnished with pine antiques, an old harvest wagon, Hudson Bay blankets and two fireplaces, the room offers a separate entrance, coat check, and washroom facilities. Cabin 5 has proven to be great for an evening out or to host a fun-filled party or event.

4. Located directly across the street from the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, The Loose Moose Tap & Grill ® is one of Toronto’s most recognizable bars with a two decade-long legacy. Recently, the beloved restaurant has undergone significant changes in the kitchen, starting with a new chef, Cary Bynoe. Bynoe leads the culinary team at The Loose Moose and is responsible for an entirely new menu. With its close proximity to the Air Canada Centre and Rogers Centre, The Loose Moose is the ideal spot to enjoy a burger and a pint before or after the game or concert.

5. Look, Listen, Touch and Learn at Niagara Fall’s Bird Kingdom’s newly expanded Reptile Encounter Zone. Marvel at the historic area photos from a by-gone era in the new “Niagara Room.” Check out the amazing birds, reptiles and more on opening day, 1st March 2010.

6. This spring, Harry Potter fans will have the chance to step inside the famous wizard’s magical world when Harry Potter: The Exhibition opens at the Ontario Science Centre in Toronto on April 9, 2010, its first venue outside the United States. The 14,000 square-foot exhibition offers fans a firsthand view of authentic artefacts displayed in detailed settings inspired by the film sets, including the Great Hall, Hagrid’s hut, the Gryffindorâ„¢ common room, and more.

7. The award-winning Tundra Trek, an awesome Arctic experience, home to polar bears, Arctic wolves, Arctic foxes, snowy owls, reindeer and lesser snow geese, is now open at the Toronto Zoo. Special features are the spacious new polar bear exhibit; the Wolf Bridge; the Goose Camp, depicting the contributions of native Canadians; the new Caribou Restaurant; Plexiglas Arctic fox burrows that kids can clamber through; a whale skeleton; bush plane; and state-of-the-art audio components that deliver realistic animal sounds. Tundra Trek conveys the impact of climate change and global warming. Construction on this new exhibit, valued at $13.5 million, began in August of 2007 and completed in August 2009.

8. This spring the Martin Goodman Trail gets a breath of fresh air as the 56-kilometre-long waterfront recreation trail sees the addition of new wave decks. The Martin Goodman Trail traverses a multitude of environments, all highly developed. Its western end starts just west of the Humber River at the Palace Pier condominium complex. Undulating ribbons of wood designed to resemble the water’s own waves, these architectural wonders are worth the walk.

9. Intrepid Urban Adventures has arrived in Toronto! Tour Guys has partnered with Intrepid Travel to be the exclusive provider of their Toronto Urban Adventures – unique walking tours and city experiences that range in duration from 2 hours to a full day. Toronto is now part of a rapidly expanding global network of cities that offer Urban Adventures to travellers and locals who want to get off the beaten track. Check out popular tours such as “Beer Makes History Better” and “Multicultural Kensington Market & Chinatown”.

10. Toronto’s most unique and classic charter boat has had a face lift! The New Beginnings which has operated on Toronto’s waterfront for decades has undergone major restoration in 2009/10 to restore its shine, brilliance and comfort. This beautiful teak and mahogany power yacht is perfect for birthday parties, weddings, corporate events or simply a cold drink out on the water! The “New Bee” has Available for hourly or daily charter, May-October. See www.harbourtourstoronto.ca for further info.

Sandals has revealed its plans for the first ever over-the-water suites in St Lucia which will begin construction in early 2011 and welcome guests in 2012. The Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort will consist of  26 brand new over-the-water suites in three luxurious categories. They will feature see-through glass floors offering views into the crystal clear waters below, over-the-water hammocks, outdoor showers and Jacuzzis, and lit water for stunning night-time viewing. Offering the ultimate in luxury and privacy, all the over-the-water suites will include full butler service, courtesy of Sandals Resorts’ exclusive partnership with the Guild of Professional English Butlers, so guests will also enjoy the highest level of service such as personalised minibars and surprise candlelit dinners on the deck in the evening.

The two-star Michelin Amber Restaurant at the Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, has  announced its 2010 Epicurean series, celebrating the finest of food and wine. Each Epicurean dinner is preceded by an hour-long apéritif and introduction of fine wines by visiting winemakers and wine masters.

Upcoming dinners this Spring include:

14th April 2010 Spanish Wine Dinner
Hosted by Spanish celebrity winemaker Alvaro Palacios
Six-course menu with seven exceptional wines, including two vintages of his exceptional wine L’Ermita. Priced at HK$3,488

17th April 2010 Sake Dinner with Sato No Homare sake
Six-course menu with six exceptional sakes. Priced at HK$2,388

And in May 2010, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental will have the honour of hosting four additional Epicurean wine dinners with some highly prestigious wineries, and each dinner personally hosted by some of the world’s most acclaimed wine experts.

The first race of the highly-anticipated 2010 F1 season is on 14th March 2010 in Bahrain. New teams and driver combinations will fill the grid in what’s sure to be an epic season and the must-attend race of the season – the one every driver wants to win – is the Grand Prix of Monaco. And what better way to view this iconic street race than from the luxury of a yacht moored trackside in the harbour?

My Yacht Monaco, now in its 6th year, caters to discerning individuals seeking a premium hospitality experience. Guests enjoy an exclusive ‘kick-off’ party on the Friday night that’s attended by Monegasque Royalty and F1 drivers alike. Champagne, caviar, gourmet food, DJ and dancing on a yacht in the harbour certainly get the GP weekend off to a glamorous start. This is followed by a two days of race viewing with all-day, full, open premium bar and gourmet food served, complimenting the high octane action taking place just a few feet from the yacht.

And, for 2010, guests have the very rare opportunity to take laps around the closed Grand Prix circuit in a pace car. Talk about bragging rights!

2010 will signal a number of important cultural events in Poland, one of which is the opening of a new museum in Warsaw, dedicated to the life and works of Frederic Chopin.

The world’s largest collection of Frederic Chopin related items includes musical manuscripts, printed scores, Chopin’s correspondence, personal items (such as cufflinks and diaries), iconography, as well as biographical works about him and critical commentaries on his compositions and his reception as a composer.  The collection was first started in 1899 by the Warsaw Music Society and is located in the renovated Ostrogski Palace, originally a castle founded at the end of the 17th century by Duke Janusz Ostrogski.