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.

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

CHEWTON GLEN: THE ESSENTIAL COUNTRYSIDE BREAK

Lauded as the United Kingdom’s finest hotel and it is plain to see why. Framed by the enchanting New Forest in Hampshire, Chewton Glen stands proudly, boasting 130 acres of park and woodland which provide a stunning backdrop for all the hotel has to offer. At only two hours from London and situated to nearby Southampton Airport the hotel is fantastically well connected, making it the perfect escape from hectic city life.

Rooms and Suites

So as to cater for all tastes, Chewton offers a diverse array of rooms and suites, effortlessly mixing classic English design with luxury modern finishes to make any stay that extra bit special. All rooms and suites have full marble bathrooms many of which offer double walk-in showers as well as separate baths.

Amenities

Hotel Grounds

Thanks to its countryside home, Chewton Glen is rich in land and offers countless activities to enjoy. Guests can explore the perfectly kept hotel gardens before playing the 9 hole golf course which is complimentary to residents. An outdoor pool, tennis courts, croquet lawn and off-roading course are also available for guests to try their hand and for when it all gets a bit too much the hotel spa is ready and waiting.

The Dining Room

A quintessentially British dining experience, Chef Luke Matthews heads the kitchen with a focus on sustainable local produce with a maximum of three and a half food miles from source to plate -ensuring freshness and above all exceptional taste.

Our Favourite Feature

The Treehouse Experience

One of Chewton Glen’s most famous features, the treehouses, can be found in the tree canopy of a secluded valley only accessible on foot or by buggy. Soft tones and warm natural colours enhance the design and feel of the tree houses all combining to create an oasis of calm among the trees for the essential country break. Each treehouse has a private balcony as well as vast floor to ceiling windows to really make the most of the stunning views of life below. For complete privacy, each house is equipped with a full kitchenette, also, breakfast hampers are delivered each morning so guests never have to leave the comfort of their treehouse.

If you'd like any more information please give us a call on 020 7724 9911 or check out our website

THE GORING'S 'DINING ROOM' GAINS MICHELIN STAR

 Last week's announcement of the Michelin Guide's 2016 winners saw only four London restaurants gain new stars; one of whom is the gorgeous Dining Room at the Goring Hotel. The restaurant, headed by Chef Shay Cooper, brings British food to life with inspired modern British classics made from the freshest produce - all served in fine Edwardian surroundings (in true Goring Style!).

The award winning team comprises of Cooper, Head Sommelier Olivier Clausse and Manager Miko Jappinen who combine forces each day for the sole purpose of 'delighting their guests'. Michelin said of the Dining Room 'The menu is an appealing mix of British classics and lighter, more modern dishes, all prepared with great skill and understanding'. This year has been a fantastic one for The Goring who recently enjoyed a full refurbishment, we wish them the best of luck in their continued success as a true historic London institution.

If you'd like to book a stay at the Goring or would like some more information, please visit our website or give us a call 020 7724 9911

TOP TEN: BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN NEW YORK

Here are New York's finest boutique hotels, ideal for those in search of a more personal, understated stay in the Big Apple.

New York Edition 

Madison Avenue, Midtown

Mere steps from Madison Square Park, the Edition prides itself on impeccable service in the heart of the city whilst also boasting a spa and Michelin starred restaurant.

The Surrey

Madison Avenue, Upper East Side

An intimate setting, rooms are a home from home where service is discreet, allowing high-profile guests to enjoy care-free stays in a 'marriage of classic and modernity'.

Gramercy Park

Lexington Avenue, Gramercy

A favourite among the stars for nearly a century and it's plain to see why. No expense was spared on this take of the grand New York hotel, walls are adorned with original artworks (including Warhols and Basquiats) and rooms feature unique luxury amenities. Guests are even given a key to Gramercy Park, the only private park in NYC.

Viceroy

West 57th Street, Midtown

A true Midtown hotel combining the character of downtown NY with the 'cosmopolitan spirit' of uptown. Exuding individual style and chic as a boutique hotel should, Viceroy offers true NYC luxury.

Westhouse

West 55th Street, Midtown

Inspired by Art Deco glam, Westhouse transports guests to a time of luxury and pizazz. At the heart of the city's cultural and artistic neighbourhoods, Westhouse blends classic NY apartment comfort with stunning five star style.

Crosby Street

Crosby Street, Soho

Vibrantly styled and decorated, Crosby Street packs a punch. In true boutique hotel style it oozes character and isn't short on amenities either featuring a 99 seat screening room, fully kitted gym - all the while situated in fashionable SoHo.

Smyth

West Broadway, TriBeCa

An oasis of calm in the hustle and bustle of New York, a recent renovation designed by Gachot Studios aims to encapsulate the character and charm of contemporary TriBeCa.

Lowell

Park Avenue, Upper East Side

In NY's most exclusive and fashionable neighbourhood, the Lowell provides elegance and sophistication for the discerning guest. With all the luxury of a grand hotel, amenities also include a fitness centre with personal trainers and top of the line equipment.

Refinery

West 38th Street, Midtown

A chic hotel at the epicentre of the fashion district, the Refinery oozes style with its prohibition era tea room, signature restaurant and a  rooftop bar with staggering views of the empire state building. All rooms come with i-Home docking station, complimentary wifi and full cable TV as standard. 

NoMad

Broadway

Housed in a restored Beaux-Arts building, NoMad is full of character and individuality. Intended as a fresh take on the classic European Grand Hotel, Jacques Garcia designed each room individually, finishing each with original artworks and signature touches such as deep mahogany writing desks.

For more information on bookings in New York and worldwide please call 0207 724 9911 or visit our website !

HOLLYWOOD HISTORY: TOP 10 ICONIC MOVIE HOTELS

Hotels have long been the backdrop to many legendary movies, here are some of the most iconic settings to Hollywood's biggest blockbusters - see if you recognise any!

The Orient Express from Murder on the Orient Express

The infamous train journey through Europe and into Asia, where the East meets the West, was the setting for the classic Agatha Christie murder mystery.

Caesar's Palace Las Vegas from The Hangover

As seen in the outrageous 2009 comedy where a groom and his three friends run riot in Las Vegas during a stag party gone terribly, terribly wrong.

Park Hyatt Tokyo from Lost in Translation

The Bill Murray movie about an unlikely friendship struck up after a chance meeting in the Park Hyatt's hotel bar perfectly captures the bright lights of Tokyo.

Beverly Wilshire Los Angeles from Pretty Woman 

The modern day Cinderella story's most iconic scenes take place in the Wilshire's presidential suite, overlooking L.A.. The hotel is so connected with the international smash hit that they even offer 'Pretty Woman for a day' packages!

The Fontaine Bleau Miami from Scarface

One of the most luxurious Miami Beach hotels has had its pool feature in countless Hollywood blockbusters. From Goldfinger to the Bodyguard and more notably in the rise and fall of vicious gangster Tony Montana - Scarface.

The Plaza New York from Home Alone II

Another hotel which has frequently appeared on the big screen, not only did Macaulay Culkin famously run amok in this luxury hotel, it has also played host to other films such as Crocodile Dundee, North by Northwest and Almost Famous!

Vertigo Hotel San Francisco from Vertigo

Formerly known as the Empire Hotel, the hotel's name change alone shows its close affiliation with the Hitchcock classic. Not only did the film's character Judy live at the hotel, James Stewart and Kim Novak who star in Vertigo stayed there during filming.

Grandhotel Pupp Czech Republic from Casino Royale

The ostentatious hotel referred to as 'Hotel Splendide' in the Daniel Craig film, sees Bond frolicking around in its reception area and car park after a meal in the hotel restaurant.

Hotel Sidi Driss Tunisia from Star Wars

The hotel's simplistic façade made it ideal as Luke Skywalker's tatooine homestead where he grows up. The hotel has now become a popular 'pilgrimage' site for die-hard Star Wars fans.

Royal Lancaster Hotel London from The Italian Job

The birthplace of Michael Caine's iconic 'hiya Charlie' moment, the Royal Lancaster is where he's commissioned to carry out the eponymous heist by Beckermann's widow.

TUESDAY TOP TEN: BEST RESTAURANTS IN THE WORLD 2015

Here are the best restaurants in the world as picked by the San Pellegrino 'World's 50 Best Restaurants' awards.

10. Gaggan

Bangkok, Thailand

Serving progressive Indian fare, chef Gaggan Anand's food is inspired by the street food of his childhood and continues to push boundaries by reinventing traditional Indian cuisine.

9. D.O.M.

Sao Paolo, Brazil

The inspiration behind Alex Atala's D.O.M. is his love for his native Brazil. A DJ turned chef, he frequently sets off deep into the Amazon to explore and unearth never before tasted flavours for his guests to delight in. 

8. Narisawa

Tokyo, Japan

Although a more cosmopolitan affair with distinct French undertones, Narisawa stays true to its Japanese roots with a focus on unique Japanese ingredients. From fugu to sea snake, Narisawa's dining experience is not one to be missed.

7. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

London, England

London's very own Dinner at the Mandarin Oriental continues to amaze diners with Heston's signature extravagant dishes. Famed for his experimental cuisine, Dinner offers traditional English food dating back hundreds of years all finished with Heston's inimitable boisterous flavours and modern cooking techniques.

6. Mugaritz

San Sebastian, Spain

Conventional dining is done with at Mugaritz where diners aren't offered a menu but instead are treated to 24 tasting dishes tailored to their tastes and preference. Examples of Aduriz's quirky cuisine include edible cutlery and dishes which tell a story through sight, taste and smell for a complete sensory experience.

5. Eleven Madison Park

New York, USA

'Modern French with a New York twist', here diners are treated to fantastic food with impeccable service. A stand-out feature of E.M.P. is its endeavour to ensure that guests are wowed by their food, they even go as far as researching each of their guests for the evening in order to tailor each dish to their specific likes and dislikes. 

4. Central

Lima, Peru

Taking diners on 'a vertical journey across Peru's landscape', Central sources traditional Peruvian produce to capture its vast array of flavours and tastes. Drawing on Peru's extensive resources, diners are transported to the mountains, sea, deserts and jungle through Cental's gorgeous tasting menu. 

3. Noma

Copenhagen, Denmark

Last year's top spot and heralded as 'one of the most influential restaurants of the 21st century', Noma continues to astound with its changing seasonal menu and its passion for more alternative cooking methods such as fermenting and pickling. 

2. Osteria Francescana

Modena, Italy 

Massimo Bottura's elegant restaurant in the quiet backstreets of Modena has been thrilling diners with contemporary takes on Italian greats for twenty years. Inspired by art and music, Bottura continues to uphold his international reputation with exquisite dishes such as rabbit macaroons and 

suckling pig with balsamic vinegar.

1. El Celler de Can Roca

Girona, Spain

The brainchild of the three Roca brothers, each bringing their unique style and flair allowing El Celler de Can Roca to be crowned the best restaurant in the world. Joan, Jordi and and Josep combine to create an unbeatable team of chef, pastry chef and sommelier allowing them to tailor every aspect of a meal for the discerning diner's pleasure. El Celler references traditional Spanish cuisine with avant-garde techniques all served in a humble restaurant with a distinct familial warmth for a dining experience unlike any other in the world. 

If you'd like to find out more about our favourite London restaurants, check out our website

TUESDAY TRAVEL: ISLAND HOPPING IN THE MEDITERRANEAN

Kick start your Mediterranean adventure with an action packed three nights in Crete. Fly direct with British Airways from London Gatwick to Heraklion before being chauffeured to the gorgeous Elounda Bay Palace Hotel. Overlooking Mirabello Bay, the hotel offers stunning views as well as action packed fun catering for everything and anything from water-skiing to scuba diving excursions. When you’ve had your fill of fun the onsite spa is always on-hand to help you relax and the hotel’s four restaurants ensure that your taste buds are always more than satisfied.

Next stop, St. George’s Bay, Malta where three nights at the opulent Corinthia Hotel and Spa will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. The hotel, steeped in history and tradition, offers its guests the ultimate in relaxation as the charm and understated elegance of the hotel along with Corinthia’s famed attentive service combine to create an oasis of calm to which guests can retreat.

Travel to foodie paradise at Forte Village Resort on the iconic Sardinian coastline where white sandy beaches meet crystal blue seas. The resort offers the ultimate holiday package with tennis courts, multiple pools, Michelin star restaurants, nightclub and go karting. If that isn't enough, the resort sits on the edge of an award winning beach whose warm climate and particularly warm sea provide a stunning setting for holidaymakers in search of sun.

A three day spa break at the renowned Capri Palace featuring the world’s best spa provides the perfect remedy for any remaining stress. The hotel isn't short on dining options either with three restaurants on site, two of which are Michelin starred. Explore the nearby ancient Acropolis Anacapri where life slows down a pace and allows you to take in its beautiful surroundings on an evening ‘passeggiata’, ice cream in hand.

Complete your Mediterranean break with three nights in inimitable Ibiza where you can let your hair down and relax in hotel ME Ibiza’s unrivalled opulence.  Sitting beach side,

 enjoy its endless list of amenities including rooftop spa, bar and pool with 360 degree views and beach club with direct yacht access. When it all gets a bit too much there’s a 27 hole golf course nearby. Enjoy the best of Ibiza in its iconic old town, just thirty minutes down the road, ideal for long, luxurious dinners overlooking the beaches or to simply sip champagne in style.

For more information check out our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911