For the first quarter of 2011, Egerton House took the number one spot in London. Known for it’s style and flair, this refurbished luxury townhouse is located in Knightsbridge, one of London’s posh neighborhoods. Guests like the Egerton House’s special touches, like personally selected chocolates each night, televisions in the bathrooms, and complimentary champagne at check-in.
Securing the second spot in the ranking was The Levin. Owned and operated by the renowned hotelier David Levin, this boutique hotel twists modern with classic British elegance, offering cool and comfortably designed spaces. Guests love its proximity to top stores like Harrod’s, which is conveniently around the corner, that makes it a perfect fit for a shopping-and-strolling styled visit.
Coming in third is Haymarket Hotel. Situated at the corner of Haymarket and Suffolk Place in the heart of the theatre district, this hotel offers a taste of sumptuous modern glamour. Guest who stay love the public spaces such as the well-designed courtyard, spacious and well-lit conservatory and the optically enhanced and large indoor pool.
Noble blood or not, a stay at one of these hotels may make you feel like royalty.
Have you ever wondered what the equivalents of some of our stranger delicacies like toad in the hole and jellied eels are across the world? What better place to start exploring slightly strange and confusing foods than China – here are just a few examples of baffling food dishes you may come across:
Chicken feet
Not usually the part of a chicken you’d think of eating, but in Chinese cuisine, chicken feet are often an option at dim sum restaurants, served as ‘phoenix talons’. The feet are deep fried or steamed first, in order to make them puffy, before being stewed and simmered in a sauce flavoured with black fermented beans, bean paste and sugar. You can also find chicken feet vacuum-packed and ready to eat in supermarkets.
Stinky tofu
This dish is renowned for its pungent odour. A block of tofu is soaked in brine made with shrimp, vegetables and salt that has been fermented for months. Stinky tofu is like marmite – you either love it or hate it. Asian tourists who follow their nose will have no trouble finding a stinky tofu stand – it’s even known for street sellers to be fined for breaking air pollution laws! Several restaurants have been dedicated to the smelly curd for those wanting to enjoy their stinky tofu in a more formal atmosphere.
Sea cucumber
Wander into any Chinese medicine shop and you’ll spot what looks like a chunk of cement in on display. This is the dried form of sea cucumber, also known as sea ginseng. This strange looking ocean creature looks exactly like a cucumber with the addition of tube feet and a ring of tentacles around its mouth. Unfortunately, its taste doesn’t live up to its appearance though – rather it’s quite bland. Nonetheless, its alleged medicinal value and reputation as an aphrodisiac make sea cucumber a popular dish at Chinese New Year banquets and other celebrations.
Bird’s nest soup
The main ingredient in bird’s nest soup is the nest of the swiftlet, a tiny bird that lives in caves in Southeast Asia. The swiftlet makes a nest from its own saliva rather than sticks and straw – the only bird in the world to do so. Harvesting these nests requires skill – men must balance on tall bamboo poles to grab the nests from inside the dark caves. Like sea cucumber, bird’s nest doesn’t actually taste much of anything. It’s enjoyed a rise in popularity from its growing reputation as both a health tonic and an aphrodisiac.
Thousand-year old eggs
Thousand-year-old eggs, a Guangdong delicacy, aren’t really that old. A more accurate name for this pungent hors d’oeuvre would be salted or preserved eggs. To make thousand-year-old eggs (also called century eggs or hundred-year-old eggs), duck eggs are preserved in ash and salt for 100 days. This turns the white of the egg a gelatinous consistency and dark brown colour and the yolk green, giving the eggs their ancient appearance. Definitely an acquired taste, thousand-year-old eggs have a creamy, cheese-like flavour and a strong smell.
Philip Hamilton-Grierson is the Marketing Director at Cox & Kings.
Looking for something cosy and with a beach on your doorstep? Then you’re in luck as Tripadvisor have just shared their top 10 cosy beachside hotels. Making the list are hotels from all over the world so, without further ado, here you go:
Air stewardesses at Hong Kong Airlines are being trained in Wing Chun, a deadly martial art that can reputedly knock an aggressor out cold in a matter of seconds. It’s not clear whether it’s mostly PR hype or designed to be a legitimate safety exercise but it’s a kind of kung fu that apparently works best at close quarters so perhaps suited to the confined nature of a plane.
In a city like San Francisco, nothing beats having a longtime local as your personal tour guide. And if that local also happens to be a great friend, then your blessings are doubled. Friends know what you like and don’t like, where you’re comfortable and where you’re not, and how you’re changing moods can quickly alter the daily itinerary. I’m lucky to have such a friend, one whom, at the slightest suggestion, instantly comes up with the perfect place to eat, drink, stay, and play.
So it was on a recent visit that I scored a room for one night at one of the SF’s most iconic landmarks, a place I’d always wanted to stay but as yet hadn’t. The Fairmont Hotel is the very personification of the city by the bay. From its stately perch on Mason Street at the top of Nob Hill, the hotel holds a veritable reign over the city, a towering symbol of turn-of-the century wealth and luxury. The nearly 600 rooms are spread over nine floors and a 325-foot-tall tower, all designed in the Beaux Arts style and now an honored entry on the National Register of Historic Places.
Driving into town on a Friday afternoon, I was giddy with excitement, as was my aforementioned friend who had spent years raving about the place. Being the history buff that I am, I couldn’t help doing a little research pre-visit. Nearly completed in 1906, the Great Earthquake and ensuing fire took a heavy toll on the hotel, which had designed and engineered by renowned Bay Area architect Julia Morgan. Reopening a year later, the Fairmont was the place to stay for the country’s Gilded Age movers and shakers. Surprisingly, at the close of World War II the charter of the United Nations was drafted in the hotel’s Garden Room. And throughout the decades of national heroes and hippies, celluloid celebrities and sports legends, the Fairmont retained its classical demeanor as a place to see and be seen.
Not surprisingly, the Fairmont’s lobby is nothing short of palatial, with architectural details and adornments that defy the imagination. Arriving at my room—a queen-size in the main building—I found it to be exceedingly comfortable without being ostentatious or overdone, a surprising contrast to the public areas. Before long, the knock on my door that I’d been waiting for came, and after a bit of catching up and some time spent looking out over the city from the windows, we headed down to the equally-renowned—and somewhat notorious—Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar, where out-of-this-world kitsch amidst a tropical atmosphere was in full swing.
The Tonga Room opened in 1967, and quickly became famous for being the city’s best Tiki bar. Casual and absolutely un-fussy, the décor is dazzling if not a little overwhelming—imagine Pirates of the Caribbean-meets-Paul Gauguin’s Tahiti. Tucking into a couple of the bar’s signature Mai Tais, it wasn’t long before we were totally immersed in the TGIF-mood, with myriad businessmen and casually-attired locals quickly filling the tables and bar. We ordered up some appetizers a la Pacific Rim cuisine, and over the next several hours made some new friends as a live band cranked out tunes. A late dinner of free-range steaks and organic salads at the Laurel Court Restaurant—also at the Fairmont—came next, followed by some bar hopping on the town and a great night’s sleep.
After checking out the next morning, my friend reappeared and suggested we indulge in that most San Franciscan of traditions—afternoon tea. As was typical during my (too short) stay at the Fairmont, service was impeccable, friendly and efficient and, at times, refreshingly playful. Perhaps soon I’ll find myself staying once again at this grande dame of the city, but until then my taste of Gilded Age luxury and Mai Tais will sustain my wanderlust.
Spain is one of the best tourist attractions in the world and one which has so much to offer to people of all ages whether you like the bustling cities or the relaxed beaches. Madrid alone offers the remains of the Moorish wall, small gothic churches, it also boasts the royal palace alongside some truly gardens notably the Sabatini Gardens which have a beautiful array of plants and flowers. If the beautiful beaches are more your thing then areas like the Costa Bravo and the Costa Del Sol are perfect for you. Costa Brava has some of the most beautiful attractions including the Greek ruins of Empuries and the Dali Theatre-Museum. Spain also has some of the most luxurious hotels there are and this article will give you the top 5.
The Bahlia Real is truly at the high end of luxurious hotels. Located in the Corralejo region of Fuerteventura, one of the most beautiful islands of Spain. The hotel has two heated swimming pools, a piano bar and a stunning spa for you to relax in. The hotel also offers its younger guests a mini bar and a Playstation centre. In terms of food the hotel offers 6 fine dining options so there really is something for everyone. For those more active guests there is a stat of the art gym which is free to use for all. Situated on the edge of Dunes of Corralejo Natural Park with white sand and dunes which can form up to 50 feet high.
The Hotel Arts is a truly majestic hotel situated in Barcelona close to all of beautiful attractions of this incredible city. The hotel overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. The hotel has 5 dining options located on site and outdoor swimming pool and a whirlpool available to all guests. The old town Barcelona and Ramblas are situated less than 10 minutes from the hotel. It also offers guests a state of the art fitness centre and spa for all to enjoy.
The Gran Melia Fenix is located in Madrid, a beautiful city which offers so many attractions for people of all ages. For those guests who also enjoy a little excitement there are a number of bull fights nearby for guests to go and watch. It is also perfect for banquets and business meetings with rooms which hold up to 130 guests. It is also within walking distance of the Cradle of Spain and offers fine dining on site. It also boasts the offer of free high speed internet to all guests.
This hotel offers guests the highest end of luxury that there is, located in the Carmona region of Spain off the west coast of Puerto Rico. The hotel is a 16th century palace which has been converted in to a luxury hotel. The hotel boasts tennis courts on site and an outdoor swimming pool including offering all guests free high speed internet. The hotel like many of the others offers on site fine dining with a combination of both international and Andaluza cuisine and even has a library in the hotel.
The Gran Melia Don Pepe is a truly beautiful hotel situated in the heart of Marbella in Malaga. Located on one of Marbella’s top beaches and just 500 metres from the city centre. The fine dining restaurant boasts 2 Michelin Stars, the hotel also has a heated indoor swimming pool and two tennis courts on site. The spa facility offers both massage and beauty treatments to all guests and there is also a health club and gym for all to enjoy. There are also two whirlpools, a sauna and a steam room. This hotel offers the perfect mix of both activities and relaxing services making it suitable for everyone.
The world’s most expensive apartments have gone on the market in one of London’s most desirable areas. There are 86 luxury apartments at One Hyde Park, ranging in price from $10m for a one bedroom apartment to a whopping $223m for a penthouse.
Packing for a stylish journey just got easier, thanks to Koza’s new line of luxury goods. Boasting three different collections for women, Koza’s products were designed with on-the-go functionality in mind. But that doesn’t mean they lack in style. Innovative patterns and silhouettes look luxe and feel amazing – the perfect pairing when it comes to jet-setting. Koza, meaning treasure, was inspired by the sensory journey that designer Sinje Lesemann experienced in India. Highlights from the collection include the Rajini Travel Tote, an oversized carry-all that comes with pockets for your laptop, passport and magazines, as well as a clear toiletry bag that will help you breeze through security, and a yummy cashmere shawl smartly designed in neutral hues to compliment any outfit. But chic ladies aren’t the only ones who will benefit from these goods of luxury. Mini-me jetsetters can take their pick between bite-size ponchos, hobos and beach coverups. It’s never too early to learn that luxury travel begins with great fashion!
Even the most luxurious holidays with young children are never easy. Certainly during all the packing up and co-ordinating of Calpol, arm bands, favourite teddies and books, and spare everything, (not to mention crucial items like passports and suncream) – I often felt exhausted before we had left the house. I don’t know what fairytale land I was in, but my dreams of relaxing under blue skies never really materialized. Children never actually want to stop and do nothing. This only happens when they sleep. So holidays were more stressful , actually, than being at home, because in an unfamiliar environment there are more hazards for little ones, because they want to explore it ,or jump off it, or climb up it.
I remember one holiday vividly, when all my 9-year-old daughter wanted to do was play football with the “big boys” (high anxiety levels of parents re squashed daughter). And my 3 -year- old was in that phase where if she found anything unusual or interesting, she had to pop it in her mouth , and then retreat to an unseen corner. (Further anxiety for already stressed parents). At least our 12- year -old could be more independent, and appreciative, you might think. But unfortunately that year he was was very anti-going-to-the-beach (he didn’t like “that” type of sand…) so that made life very awkward, as we were under the mistaken illusion (and confidently so, being parents of 3) that they would all love the beach.
Things might have got easier, but the arrival of number 4 made holidays yet more challenging. With a baby in the equation, as well as all the gear -buggy, bottles, baby this and baby that, we never really had proper space, and definitely no peace and quiet. I do have vague memories of a backdrop of mountains and forests, and of crystal blue sea and ice cream to die for, but as for relaxation, that was definitely just a dream.
The Trump SoHo hotel in NYC has a chic, hip vibe that is welcoming and laid-back. Its posh lobby and contemporary rooms are airy and spacious, and very different from the typical urban, cramped feel that is so common among hotels in New York City. Not to mention that its prime location gives visitors easy access to some of Manhattan’s finest restaurants, art galleries, and nightlife venues — many only a short walk from the hotel.
One of the most appealing aspects of Trump SoHo, other than its location, is the new penthouse suites. These 11 mega rooms have stunningly expansive views of Manhattan, soothing designs, and lavish amenities. The suites come in all shapes and sizes, from the swanky duplex to the sumptuous spa suites, so choosing one that’s right for you has been made oh-so-easy.
The chic 2,300-square-foot duplex terrace penthouse rises from the 43rd to the 44th floor making it the perfect space for entertaining. The wine cooler, Subzero refrigerator, sweeping views and luxurious decor will make hosting easy with even the most discerning guests.
Two penthouse suites on the 43rd floor offer guests a choice of equally spectacular views of Manhattan. Chose the suite facing southwest, and soak in the sunset over the Hudson River each evening. Prefer more of a cityscape vista? Go with the stunning suite facing north, and admire the Empire State building while relaxing in the luxurious freestanding bathtub.
For the ultimate pampered experience, stay in the Trump SoHo spa suites. Opt for the spa suite with an in-room sauna and attached private treatment room, and transform the average hotel stay to a blissful respite. Each spa suite has an oversized shower with dual body shower heads and a luxury spa soaking tub.
I had the opportunity to dine for lunch at Quattro, the hotel’s restaurant specializing in Italian fare, and thoroughly enjoyed the Eggplant Melanzane and the Lobster Ravioli drizzled with gold. I would highly recommend ending the meal with dessert — I sampled several innovative treats from a delectable assortment of cakes, sorbets, ice cream flavors and mousses, and found each one to be devilishly good. The service and staff were helpful, friendly, and allowed just enough time to enjoy the meal without lingering between courses.
Guests at Trump SoHo can rest assured that their holiday to NYC will be a relaxing destination that offers luxury, elegance, and indulgence, all from the comfort of their spacious room with a view.
Here are some May events in Thailand which may be of interest to luxury travellers. There are several trade shows including:
Thailand Golf and Dive Expo 2011 from 26-29 May 2011, at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok. This is an opportunity to learn more about the best golfing and diving destinations in Thailand. You may also be able to pick up special deals on travel packages.
“Wonderful Thailand” is also part of this expo. (Same website and dates.) This is where top hotels, resorts, and tour operators showcase their services and also offer special discounts to people attending the expo. It could be worth a look.
There are also some special deals available for gourmet dining.
For some reason ice cream seems to be flavour of the month at some of the top hotels. The Landmark on Sukhumvit is offering an all-you-can-eat ice cream buffet until the end of May. And the Four Seasons at Rajadamri Road is doing a special “Tropical Ice Cream” promotion, also until the end of May 2011.
If ice cream isn’t your scene (it’s not mine!) you might like to try some seafood treats instead.
Party House One, Siam@Siam Hotel and Spa have created a new seafood buffet, “Deep Sea Delights”. You can try a variety of seafood cooked in many different ways from their exciting menu. This promotion is every Friday evening until the end of May.
It’s quite difficult to find good information for you because so many things don’t get very well publicised in advance – they’re only reported after the event. It’s easy to find what was on, and so much harder to find what’s coming up. I’ve done my best!
I’ll finish with a couple of insider tips. Probably the best lunch and dinner buffets in Bangkok are to be found at the Grand Hyatt Erawan, and the Lebua at State Tower is very hard to beat for a comfortable stay (and wonderful buffet breakfast).
It’s never too early to book your flights and your accommodation and most of the smart money book private apartments and villas within walking distance of the action. Luxury villa rentals also mean that you have a private screening room on hand and can escape the madness of La Croisette when you need to.
2. Getting around
It has to be on foot and if you’re not within walking distance of the Palais des Festivals and the key hotels such as the Carlton Intercontinental then don’t bother. Taxis and limos are expensive and that’s if you can find one. The only way to get to where you need to be on time is by walking and as someone who lives in serious heels then my advice is to pack a pair of ballet flats into your handbag, otherwise you’ll be late and in agony most of the time.
3. Dress for every occasion
The Cannes Film Festival has a speed all of its own and you need to be ready for anything. Make sure that you are prepared with bag of hidden goodies to be carried around with you; an evening shirt for the guys, some sparkly jewellery for the girls and you’re prepared to move from daytime distribution meetings to the evening premier all without having to touch base – even if you had the time!
4. Your pass is everything
If you’re at the festival to promote a movie or need to be at the heart of the press and celebrity action then the only way to be completely involved is to register through the official channels and to have your pass with you and on display at all times. If you think you can just come and crash all the important events and screenings then think again. Security is tight and you won’t get close without your all important pass.
5. Celebrity spotting
The Cannes Film Festival is the ideal chance for some serious celebrity spotting and never more so than in and around La Croisette. Grab a table at one of the cafes just across from the Palais des Festivals and wait. Most celebrities will also be spotted arriving and leaving from the key Cannes hotels, but without that all important pass then you’re not going to be rubbing shoulders with then in the hotel bar, the strict security will see to that.
The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most glamorous events of the season but be warned, it’s a 24hr event and going back to your hotel or villa for long periods of sleep is only for the faint hearted. Network, party and network some more, after all, there will be time for sleeping after the Hollywood premier.
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With the spotlight on London for the big wedding, this is a perfect opportunity to celebrate the hotels whom guests consider to be the city’s hotel royalty: Egerton House, The Levin, Haymarket Hotel, The SoHo Hotel and The Milestone Hotel.
Have you ever wondered what the equivalents of some of our stranger delicacies like toad in the hole and jellied eels are across the world? What better place to start exploring slightly strange and confusing foods than China – here are just a few examples of baffling food dishes you may come across:
Spain is one of the best tourist attractions in the world and one which has so much to offer to people of all ages whether you like the bustling cities or the relaxed beaches. Madrid alone offers the remains of the Moorish wall, small gothic churches, it also boasts the royal palace alongside some truly gardens notably the 
Even the most luxurious holidays with young children are never easy. Certainly during all the packing up and co-ordinating of Calpol, arm bands, favourite teddies and books, and spare everything, (not to mention crucial items like passports and suncream) – I often felt exhausted before we had left the house. I don’t know what fairytale land I was in, but my dreams of relaxing under blue skies never really materialized. Children never actually want to stop and do nothing. This only happens when they sleep. So holidays were more stressful , actually, than being at home, because in an unfamiliar environment there are more hazards for little ones, because they want to explore it ,or jump off it, or climb up it.
The