Friday 25 November 2016

Hotel Rooms in London With a Strange History

From haunted rooms to rooms that changed the course of history, London's hotel rooms tell a unique and fascinating story stretching back almost 300 years


The Grosvenor House Hotel - George V Suite (806)

A Mickey Mouse suite



10 years after Walt and Lillian Disney were married they decided to go to London on honeymoon and stayed in the George V suite on the 8th floor of the Grosvenor House. Even Mickey Mouse joined in the celebration, with the above picture taken on the roof of the hotel on June 12th 1935.



Claridge’s Hotel - Suite 212

The only part of mainland UK ceded to another country in WWII



Throughout the Second World War the Yugoslavian Royal family were in forced exile at Claridge’s Hotel, where Princess Alexandra fell pregnant. So in 1945 Prime Minister Winston Churchill declared suite 212 Yugoslavian territory to allow Crown Prince Alexander II to be born on his own country's soil. According to folklore, Claridge's staff placed a handful Yugoslav soil under the Queen's bed during her labour – the hotel would not comment to say if it was still there.




The Langham Hotel – Napoleon Suite

A Leader in Exile



Following the disastrous defeat in the Franco Prussian war the then French Emperor Louis Napoleon III spent much of his enforced exile from France at the best hotel in London at the time, the Langham. The first floor suite in which he took his extended residence remains as grand as it was in 1870, albeit with a few modern additions. To this day it is said that Napoleon III haunts the hotels basement.





The Corinthia Hotel – Room 801

The UFO Room



The Corinthia hotel occupies a grand building that housed offices for the Ministry of Defence for over 70 years. In its heyday MI9 department operated from the building, overseeing the crucial job of coordinating the vast ranks of POW escapees, resistance fighters and undercover agents across Europe during World War II. MI9 continued its clandestine operations after the war too, particularly in room 801, which was used as a highly classified depository for UFO sightings. Rumour has it that when MI9 vacated in 1992 they left behind the documents by accident, only for the hotel contractors to stumble across them 20 years later……shortly after their unintentional release MOD decided to declassify them. Coincidence?





The Savoy - Monet Suite 618

An artist’s inspiration



The famous painting Waterloo Bridge Misty Morning, by Claude Monet, was drawn in this very hotel room over 110 years ago when the Artist took up a 6 months residence at the Savoy hotel. The stunning vantage point of the Thames was recommended to him by American artist James Whistler. Throughout the stay Claude Monet painstakingly used over 100 canvasses at any one time, awaiting the perfect time and weather conditions to create the masterpiece. His daily routine included indulging in two English breakfasts before strolling across the river Thames from St Thomas' Hospital to the Houses of Parliament.




The Ritz Hotel - Marie Antoinette Suite

D DAY HQ



During the Second World War then British Prime Minster Churchill, French and US Presidents De Gaulle and Eisenhower met for summit meetings at the Ritz Hotels Marie Antoinette Suite, now a private dining room. No one knows exactly what was discussed in the Room, however it is reported that this is the very room where plans for D Day initially came to fruition - the very event that signalled the beginning of the end of the war.






Grosvenor House Hotel – Suite 804

James Bond’s Suite



At the time of playing double ‘O’ seven, Sean Connery’s favourite suite was 804 at the Grosvenor House Hotel. Unfortunately Mr Connery arrived very early one morning and the previous guest had not yet checked out so the room was not ready. The receptionist shyly explained that there was a guest in your usual room at the moment and in true James Bond style said, “Is it a girl if so I’ll take the key”.





The Town Hall Hotel - De Montfort Suite

A room for the people



Opened in 1910 in the heyday of Edwardian Architecture and British Power the building was designed to showcase the wealth of the Borough Council – None more so that the Grand Hall that has now become the De Montfort Suite. Its impressive triple height vaulted ceiling gives the suite a cavernous feel, which is flooded with colour from the huge arched original stained glass windows.





The Dorchester Hotel – Eisenhower Suite

The safest room in London



As WWII broke out Sir Malcolm McAlpine declared the Dorchester Hotel to be "bomb-proof, earthquake-proof and fireproof." It’s no Wonder why then that the American President chose it as his home from home throughout the conflict. The President took two rooms on the first floor where, to give him greater privacy, British Prime Minster Churchill had a wall erected between his balcony and the room next door – a wall that remains till this day.







The Langham Hotel – Room 333

The most haunted hotel room in London



Another entry from the Langham, said to be the most haunted hotel room in London. A number of guests have claimed a sighting is of a ghost in Victorian evening wear in Room 333 during the month October. The spirit is said to be that of a German Prince who jumped out of a window before the outbreak of the First World War. It is also believed that Napoleon III, another former guest, haunts the basement of the hotel.



Cafe Royal Hotel - The Marquis Suite

Call the fire brigade!



After taking views of London's most famous landmarks from the Marquis Suites windows, guests may notice an original Edwardian Maple fireplace standing out amongst the ultra modern decor. It is a nod to the rooms previous use as the boardroom of the County Fire Office - a formal room hosting discussions and debates of city wide importance!





The Courthouse Hotel – Bar

A lock in Bar



Not a room, but the bar at the Courthouse is particularly of interest – its architecture contains a number of pointers to the room’s history as a magistrate’s court. None more so than the three original holding cells that are now utilised as VIP enclaves. They still contain their original layout with the prisoner benches (now comfortably upholstered) and even (thoroughly cleaned) toilet bowls. The booths can be privately booked for up to 8 people if you fancy being locked away behind their thick iron doors.




Browns Hotel – The Alexander Graham Bell Room

Where the UK’s first telephone call was made



Going back to 1876 Alexander Graham bell demonstrated the UK’s first ever successful telephone call during his stay at the Brown’s Hotel. The room is now a private dining room, but its history is proudly honoured with an antique telephone from the period and various illustrations of telephones from over the years. Another room, or suite, that has a notable past in the hotel is the ‘Kipling Suite’ – where Rudyard Kipling completed the classic jungle book novel.


For more information or to book one of these unique hotel rooms, please contact hotels@bluebirdtravel.com - quoting 'hotelhistory' for a 5% discount.


www.bluebirdtravel.com





Hotel Rooms in London With a Strange History

From haunted rooms to rooms that changed the course of history, London's hotel rooms tell a unique and fascinating story stretching back almost 300 years


The Grosvenor House Hotel - George V Suite (806)

A Mickey Mouse suite



10 years after Walt and Lillian Disney were married they decided to go to London on honeymoon and stayed in the George V suite on the 8th floor of the Grosvenor House. Even Mickey Mouse joined in the celebration, with the above picture taken on the roof of the hotel on June 12th 1935.



Claridge’s Hotel - Suite 212

The only part of mainland UK ceded to another country in WWII



Throughout the Second World War the Yugoslavian Royal family were in forced exile at Claridge’s Hotel, where Princess Alexandra fell pregnant. So in 1945 Prime Minister Winston Churchill declared suite 212 Yugoslavian territory to allow Crown Prince Alexander II to be born on his own country's soil. According to folklore, Claridge's staff placed a handful Yugoslav soil under the Queen's bed during her labour – the hotel would not comment to say if it was still there.




The Langham Hotel – Napoleon Suite

A Leader in Exile



Following the disastrous defeat in the Franco Prussian war the then French Emperor Louis Napoleon III spent much of his enforced exile from France at the best hotel in London at the time, the Langham. The first floor suite in which he took his extended residence remains as grand as it was in 1870, albeit with a few modern additions. To this day it is said that Napoleon III haunts the hotels basement.





The Corinthia Hotel – Room 801

The UFO Room



The Corinthia hotel occupies a grand building that housed offices for the Ministry of Defence for over 70 years. In its heyday MI9 department operated from the building, overseeing the crucial job of coordinating the vast ranks of POW escapees, resistance fighters and undercover agents across Europe during World War II. MI9 continued its clandestine operations after the war too, particularly in room 801, which was used as a highly classified depository for UFO sightings. Rumour has it that when MI9 vacated in 1992 they left behind the documents by accident, only for the hotel contractors to stumble across them 20 years later……shortly after their unintentional release MOD decided to declassify them. Coincidence?





The Savoy - Monet Suite 618

An artist’s inspiration



The famous painting Waterloo Bridge Misty Morning, by Claude Monet, was drawn in this very hotel room over 110 years ago when the Artist took up a 6 months residence at the Savoy hotel. The stunning vantage point of the Thames was recommended to him by American artist James Whistler. Throughout the stay Claude Monet painstakingly used over 100 canvasses at any one time, awaiting the perfect time and weather conditions to create the masterpiece. His daily routine included indulging in two English breakfasts before strolling across the river Thames from St Thomas' Hospital to the Houses of Parliament.




The Ritz Hotel - Marie Antoinette Suite

D DAY HQ



During the Second World War then British Prime Minster Churchill, French and US Presidents De Gaulle and Eisenhower met for summit meetings at the Ritz Hotels Marie Antoinette Suite, now a private dining room. No one knows exactly what was discussed in the Room, however it is reported that this is the very room where plans for D Day initially came to fruition - the very event that signalled the beginning of the end of the war.






Grosvenor House Hotel – Suite 804

James Bond’s Suite



At the time of playing double ‘O’ seven, Sean Connery’s favourite suite was 804 at the Grosvenor House Hotel. Unfortunately Mr Connery arrived very early one morning and the previous guest had not yet checked out so the room was not ready. The receptionist shyly explained that there was a guest in your usual room at the moment and in true James Bond style said, “Is it a girl if so I’ll take the key”.





The Town Hall Hotel - De Montfort Suite

A room for the people



Opened in 1910 in the heyday of Edwardian Architecture and British Power the building was designed to showcase the wealth of the Borough Council – None more so that the Grand Hall that has now become the De Montfort Suite. Its impressive triple height vaulted ceiling gives the suite a cavernous feel, which is flooded with colour from the huge arched original stained glass windows.





The Dorchester Hotel – Eisenhower Suite

The safest room in London



As WWII broke out Sir Malcolm McAlpine declared the Dorchester Hotel to be "bomb-proof, earthquake-proof and fireproof." It’s no Wonder why then that the American President chose it as his home from home throughout the conflict. The President took two rooms on the first floor where, to give him greater privacy, British Prime Minster Churchill had a wall erected between his balcony and the room next door – a wall that remains till this day.







The Langham Hotel – Room 333

The most haunted hotel room in London



Another entry from the Langham, said to be the most haunted hotel room in London. A number of guests have claimed a sighting is of a ghost in Victorian evening wear in Room 333 during the month October. The spirit is said to be that of a German Prince who jumped out of a window before the outbreak of the First World War. It is also believed that Napoleon III, another former guest, haunts the basement of the hotel.



Cafe Royal Hotel - The Marquis Suite

Call the fire brigade!



After taking views of London's most famous landmarks from the Marquis Suites windows, guests may notice an original Edwardian Maple fireplace standing out amongst the ultra modern decor. It is a nod to the rooms previous use as the boardroom of the County Fire Office - a formal room hosting discussions and debates of city wide importance!





The Courthouse Hotel – Bar

A lock in Bar



Not a room, but the bar at the Courthouse is particularly of interest – its architecture contains a number of pointers to the room’s history as a magistrate’s court. None more so than the three original holding cells that are now utilised as VIP enclaves. They still contain their original layout with the prisoner benches (now comfortably upholstered) and even (thoroughly cleaned) toilet bowls. The booths can be privately booked for up to 8 people if you fancy being locked away behind their thick iron doors.




Browns Hotel – The Alexander Graham Bell Room

Where the UK’s first telephone call was made



Going back to 1876 Alexander Graham bell demonstrated the UK’s first ever successful telephone call during his stay at the Brown’s Hotel. The room is now a private dining room, but its history is proudly honoured with an antique telephone from the period and various illustrations of telephones from over the years. Another room, or suite, that has a notable past in the hotel is the ‘Kipling Suite’ – where Rudyard Kipling completed the classic jungle book novel.


For more information or to book one of these unique hotel rooms, please contact hotels@bluebirdtravel.com - quoting 'hotelhistory' for a 5% discount.


www.bluebirdtravel.com





Tuesday 16 February 2016

EUROPE'S BEST SKI CHALETS

Ski season is in full swing, check out some of our favourite chalets for a last minute getaway.....


 Chalet Le Rocher

Val d'Isere

A seven bedroom chalet with all the must-haves including full gym, swimming pool and hot tub, at the heart of Val d'Isere. Our favourite feature is the expansive living area complete with crackling log fire for cosy nights in.

Chalet One Oak

Combloux

Another popular resort destination with a difference, sleeping up to twelve people, guests can expect to enjoy fantastic food and service as well as modern amenities in a gorgeous traditional decoration.

Number 14

Verbier

With sixteen staff on hand ready to cater for up to twenty six guests it is clear why Number 14 is one of Verbier's more coveted residences. A host of amenities including a hammam, pool, cinema and two hot tubs await guests after a hard day's ski.

Chalet Owens

Courchevel 1850

The perfect choice for those with an aim to relax, a state of the art gym, indoor/outdoor pool, wine cellar, cinema and infinity pool are among the hoard of perks Owens offers allowing those less keen to ski the chance to relax indoors.

Chalet N

Oberlech

A stand out option with more staff on hand than there are guests, Chalet N is without a doubt one of the most lavish chalets in Europe. With a whole floor dedicated to a spa area, cinema, infinity pool, and wine cellar as well as a fantastic kitchen and living area, Chalet N is almost impossible to resist. 


For more information on the chalets mentioned above or for more information please visit our website or call 0442077249911

Tuesday 19 January 2016

SPOTLIGHT ON LONDON'S LUXURY NEW HOTELS OPENING 2016

We've chosen our top three hotel openings to look forward in 2016 so that you can get planning your stay!


Four Seasons at Ten Trinity Square

Tower Bridge, London

Part of a string of new Four Seasons opening all across the world, the Ten Trinity Square is an iconic London landmark. A grade II listed building, it oozes elegance and grandeur with its intricate stone statues and sculptures - a perfect match for the Four Seasons legacy!


Intercontinental London at the O2

Waterview Drive, Greenwich, London

A very clever move by the Intercontinental Group, finally a hotel within walking distance of the mighty O2 arena! The hotel will maintain its world renown reputation of excellent service and top facilities across all of its 453 rooms, we're most excited about the 18th floor sky bar which will no doubt offer some truly stunning views of the Thames.


Nobu Shoreditch

Willow Street, Shoreditch, London

The third establishment of the ever expanding Nobu chain headed by actor Robert De Niro and Chef Nobu Matsuhisa is due to open in trendy Shoreditch with 156 rooms across five floors. 


If you'd like some more information please check our website for London's finest hotels or give us a call +44 2077249911 

Thursday 7 January 2016

WORLD'S BEST FIRST CLASS LOUNGES

Waiting is a big part of travelling so here's a list of some of the world's best First Class airline lounges to make the wait a lot more enjoyable.....


Qantas First Lounge

Sydney Kingfords-Smith and Melbourne Tullamarine Airport

The Qantas first class lounge designed by Marc Newson, passengers are spoiled by the cook to order restaurants and Spa service which is free to book - they'll even call the day before to organise a treatment time!

Cathay Pacific 'The Wing'

Hong Kong International Airport

The exclusive section of their lounge, accessible only to First Class passenger's offers 12 shower suites as well as 5 utterly private cabanas with full size bath tub, rain shower, desk vanity and daybed, we'd happily stay even when not flying. 

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse: Cowshed and Wet Room

London Heathrow Airport, London Gatwick, JFK

The famous fashionable clubhouses can be found at airports all around the world however only 3 feature a complimentary spa. There's also a hair dresser and barber as well as a sauna and steam room so passengers can arrive looking and feeling their best.


British Airways Elemis Spa 

London Heathrow Airport and JFK

First Class passengers are treated to a complimentary 15 minute treatment in the lounge Spa where the menu has been specially adapted to suit long haul passengers. Treatments include the 'Jet Lag Reviver' to help soothe tired eyes and prevent wrinkles as well as the 'Upper Body Heat Wave' which aims to relieve stiff and achy muscles.

Etihad Airways: Six Senses Spa and Shave

Abu Dhabi International Airport

Along with Etihad's already impressive list of First Class perks, their lounge takes the pain out of travelling by providing large comfortable seating and eating areas as well as an on-site spa and barber. Passengers can delight in full spa treatments, nail salon, professional wet shave and even a shirt pressing service (also available in arrivals).

Planning a trip? Give us a call on 0207 724 9911 or visit our website for more information

Tuesday 3 November 2015

OUR TOP PICKS THIS CHRISTMAS

December is nearly upon us and with that in mind we've put together some of our favourite things to do in London during the festive season.....


Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park

20 November - 3 January 2016

Although it can become a little crowded, it never fails to get us into the Christmas spirit. The endless list of attractions including an ice bar, circus tent, Ferris wheel and market stalls all combine to create a warm and festive atmosphere.

Belgravia Christmas Market

Sunday 7 December 2015

A day for all the family, Elizabeth Street and Pimlico Road play host to bustling market stalls, choirs, brass bands, boutique markets and most importantly Santa himself!

Ice Skating at the Natural History Museum

29 October - 3 January 2016

The iconic Christmas activity and great family fun, whether it's your first time or fiftieth! Glide around under the infamous Museum and warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine afterwards. For a more adult feel go in the evening as it doesn't get much more romantic than skating under the twinkling lights of the night sky.

Hogwarts in the Snow 

13 November - 31 January 2016

A must - see for every Harry Potter fan, dive into the wizarding world when Hogwarts is at its best, where fires will be lit and visitors can experience first hand the enchantment of a Hogwarts Christmas.

Tuesday 13 October 2015

MOST EXCLUSIVE CELEBRITY HOLIDAY HOTSPOTS


Bora Bora 

Favoured by countless celebs (including the Kardashians themselves!) is the Hilton Nui Bora Bora, offering an idyllic tropical haven of relaxation. With a variety of accommodations such as hillside and garden villas , our personal favourites are the Sunset Pool Overwater villas, which, as the name would suggest, offer unrivalled views of the sunset from your very own private pool deck.


Saint-Tropez

Heralded as the celebrity holiday spot since rising to fame in the 1950's, Saint Tropez plays holiday home to all the famous faces each summer. Although offering a host of top notch hotels including the famous Byblos, visitors tend to prefer to moor up and stay on their luxury yachts, enjoying the best of the shores bars and beaches as well as making the most of the gorgeous gulf.


Dubai

Renown for its extravagance and offering guaranteed year round sun, Dubai is the ideal spot to get away from it all, more specifically the Burj Al Arab. Counting the likes of the Beckhams, Kardashians, Rita Ora and Kelly Brook as some of their returning clientèle, it's easy to understand why a gold plated iPad is provided upon check-in for each guest to enjoy. 


Portofino

A taste of classic Italy, visitors have included Steven Spielberg, Beyonce, Rod Stewart and Elton John. Although a quaint, picture-perfect fishing village Portofino surprises with its world-class home cooking and luxury hotels overlooking the Italian Riviera. 


Mustique

The island found in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is famed for its breathtaking beaches and beach front bars. A long-time favourite of the royals, serving as Prince William and Kate's honeymoon destination as well as holiday home for Princess Margaret.

If you'd like to find out more please give us a call on 020 7724 9911 or visit our website