FRIDAY FEATURE: JUNE'S HOTTEST EVENTS

June's hottest events, so that you don't miss out....

Chesterton's Polo in the Park

Friday 5th - 7th June 2015

The weekend event at Hurlingham Park is to host the largest Polo event in Europe. Discerning visitors will enjoy at least three matches a day including an International England match on the Friday as well as plenty of bars, gardens and music. The Little Hooves Kid's Club will be holding events across the weekend also making sure that the little ones are entertained so mum and dad can enjoy a Pimm's or two.

Sunset Safari, ZSL London Zoo

Fridays from 5th June - 17th July 2015, 6pm until 10pm 

A safari in the city, the Sunset Safari begins at London Zoo's usual closing time and offers insight into the animals' daily routine as they begin to settle down for the night. The tour, action packed with animal feeds, talks and entertainment showcase the zoo's 750 different species from around the world. Visitors can opt for self-guided or premium guide tours led by a safari expert.

Trooping the Colour

Saturday 13th June 2015, 10am

Although the Queen's birthday is in April, the official celebration of the sovereign's birthday has always taken place on a weekend in June. A glorious event full of colour and pageantry, Trooping the Colour is an impressive display of regimental skill by the Queen's personal troops as they salute her on her birthday. Over 1400 officers and men are on parade as well as 200 horses and 400 musicians, visible from The Mall and some areas of St. James' Park, which is followed by a fly-over by the Royal Air Force.

Open Garden Squares Weekend

Saturday 13th-14th June 2015

An action packed weekend for those with a green fingered inclination, the weekend will see over 200 enchanting gardens with restricted access open to the public across 27 of London's Boroughs. From historic and traditional gardens to those with a more contemporary feel, the Open Garden Squares Weekend is a charming and relaxing event - especially if the weather holds out!

Royal Ascot

Tuesday 16th - 20th June 2015

The world's finest racehorses compete for prizes of up to £5.5 million in Britain's most valuable race meet. Over 18 group races take place, eight of which are in Group one, take place over four days of high fashion broadcast all over the world. The Royal Procession which heralds the start of each race day is quintessential Britain at its best.

Shoes: Pleasure and Pain

Saturday 13th June - 31st January 2016

Once again the Victoria and Albert impresses its visitors with an exhibition charting the cultural significance and the changing fashions of our favourite shoes throughout time. From Ancient Egyptian sandals to Marilyn Monroe heels, the V&A takes visitors on a fashionable journey through time.

Wimbledon

Monday 29th June - 12th July 2015

The yearly tournament returns once again for two weeks of all things tennis, orderly queues and a little British rain. One of the most highly regarded titles in tennis will see players battle it out in singles and doubles to win up to £1.8 million.

Hampton Court Flower Show

Tuesday 30th June - 5th July 2015

The beauty of the Chelsea Flower Show is continued with the world's largest flower show also hosted by the Royal Horticultural Society. Taking place over six days, this year will see the show celebrating their 25th Silver Anniversary in style with special arrangements, historical gardens and a special rose marquee showcasing the Festival of Roses.


If you'd like to find out more about exclusive hotels and flights visit our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911

TUESDAY TOP TEN: THE WORLD'S MOST EXPENSIVE HOTEL ROOMS

This week we take a look at some of the most expensive hotel rooms in the world, offering their guests the epitome of luxury and elegance all finished with unrivalled five star signature service....

Two Storey Sky Villa, Palms Casino Resort Las Vegas

From £16,108 per night

Overlooking the notorious Vegas strip, the 9,000 square foot Sky Villa really is one of a kind. A glass enclosed swimming pool hangs on the balcony edge overlooking Vegas' glittering city lights. The Villa also comes with personal glass elevator, private dry sauna, massage and fitness room as well as round the clock butler service.

Presidential Suite, St Regis New York

From £22,539 per night

Designed to inspire their travelling guests with original artworks and treasures from around the world, this suite inspired by surrounding Fifth Avenue apartments boasts unrivalled views over Central Park through its floor to ceiling windows. It features a full kitchen, wood-panelled library and spa style bathroom with jacuzzi along with dozens of other outstanding perks.

Amanyara Villa, Amanyara Turks and Caicos

From £22,540 per night

The Aman Villas, each spread over half a hectare of land and with private access to the hotel's very own beach, come in one of three different outlooks. Tranquillity Villas are surrounded by gardens and reflection ponds, Ocean Villas have unrivalled ocean views and Beach Villas are mere steps away from the powdery white sand beach. 

Penthouse Suite, Grand Hyatt Cannes Hotel Martinez

From £27,416 per night

The seventh floor, 300 square metre suite stays true to the glitz and glamour long associated with the French Riviera.  It comprises a 270 square metre terrace for guests to lap up the sun whilst overlooking the bay and the Boulevard de la Croisette.

Shahi Mahal Suite, Raj Palace Jaipur

From £28,595 per night

The original palace of the seventeenth century Rajput Maharaja, the Raj Palace's Shahi Mahal brings together historic opulence and modern five star quality. Finished with original artworks from the Maharaja's palace the Shahi Mahal suite is a four floor suite spanning 16,000 square feet complete with private entrance, roof top terrace and jacuzzi.

The Palace, Jumeirah Bodrum Palace

From £28,872 per night

The Palace fit for royalty, no expense was spared when designing this suite. Expect golden lion statues, a private hammam bath, six king bedrooms with eight marble bathrooms sprawled out over three floors and 2,000 square metres of endless luxury.

Hilltop Residence, Laucala Island Fiji

From £34,086 per night

The Laucala Island resort's crowning glory is its Hilltop Residence - a resort within a resort. This private complex combines 1,200 square metres of living space with 11,000 square metres of bedroom space along with numerous other quarters. Those occupying the residence can expect unrivalled service with a private chef, nanny and chauffeur to cater to their every need.

Ty Warner Penthouse, Four Seasons New York

From £36,956 per night

Towering over other New York suites, the Ty Warner Penthouse is the tallest suite in the city at a staggering 800 feet above ground. This one of a kind suite took seven years and $50 million to build, plying guests with luxury with its calfskin leather walled dressing room, Zen room waterfall and Chinese onyx clad bathrooms. Finishing touches come in the form of 24 hour access to a chauffeured Rolls Royce, art concierge, personal trainer and all-inclusive access to the hotel spa and dining.

Owner's Villa, Cheval Blanc Randheli Maldives

Price Upon Request

Designed by the renowned Jean Michel Gathy, the Randheli's Owner's Villa comes with its own private island. The four bedroom villa sits on one hectare of private land where guests can enjoy unlimited access to its private 25 metre pool, spa, white sand beaches and of course dedicated chefs and staff.

Royal Penthouse, President Wilson Hotel Geneva

From £53,000 per night

It is plain to see why the Wilson's Royal Penthouse is one of the most expensive hotel stays in the world. One of the largest and most luxurious suites at a staggering 1700 square metres, it offers its visitors inimitable views of the stunning Lake Geneva and its gorgeous mountain backdrop. Along with its glorious vista, guests have twelve luxury bedrooms at their disposal, twelve marble bathrooms, a Steinway piano and private gym along with countless further perks that leave nothing to be desired. Of course, the Penthouse is often host to countless VIPs who can sleep peacefully knowing they are protected by bulletproof glass as well as a private lift ensuring the utmost privacy.

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

FRIDAY FEATURE: 5 THINGS TO DO THIS BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND

The May bank holiday weekend is finally here and for those of us choosing to stay in the capital over the next three days, here are some ideas to help you make the best of your long weekend....

Stay in a luxury hotel

Many people living in London or those visiting frequently have never experienced the tourist attractions that people travel far and wide to witness. Seize the opportunity and explore our amazing city! Stays at the Savoy or Corinthia hotels allow easy access to the city's glittering West End with Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square nearby, or, opt for a Knightsbridge hotel such as the Mandarin Oriental or the Bulgari if you're in the mood for some shopping.

Museums and Art Galleries

Take advantage of London's vast array of museums and art galleries. From the British Museum in Russell Square, one of the finest in the world with more than 7 million artefacts on show, to the Tate Modern on Southbank housing the best in modern art from 1900 onwards, there is something to cater for all tastes.

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds are celebrating the release of the new Star Wars film with a Star Wars display. The feature comprises of 16 of the series' life-sized heroes and villains as well as the films' most iconic moments offering visitors a 'unique and immersive experience'.

Luxury Picnic in a Royal Park

Pass by renowned Fortnum and Mason and pick up a luxury picnic hamper to enjoy in nearby Green Park. A wide range of themed picnics are available catering from 2 to 10 people making it a lovely day out for all the family - weather permitting!

Electric Cinema

If the weather's a little less favourable, head down to the Electric Cinema in Dalston or Portobello Road where you can watch great movies in style. Having replaced the traditional cinema seat with arm chairs, beds and sofas all with foot stalls and cashmere blankets for your comfort, the Electric takes cinema back to the golden age of film providing a sense of occasion and romance.

If you'd like any more information regarding London hotels please visit our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911

TUESDAY TOP TEN: HOTEL ROOMS WITH STUNNING VIEWS

If your perfect holiday involves ultimate relaxation, sitting back and watching the world go by, then why not do it whilst gazing at some of the world's most beautiful vistas. Here are some of the world's most gorgeous hotel views, all from the comfort of your room....

Banyan Tree, Bangkok

This 'vertical resort' provides unrivalled views of the city and the famed 'River of Kings', for the ultimate viewing experience, the hotel's presidential suite features a double height glass walled dining room.

Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como

The hotel Tremezzo's newly introduced suite only 'Rooftop Floor' features eight suites, each with a private terrace and jacuzzi pool so guests can while away the day whilst in the lap of luxury.

Laucala Private Resort

Found in the south Pacific, Laucala is covered in luscious rainforest with a dramatic mountainous backdrop - all to be admired from one of its twenty five luxury villas on the beach, over-water or mountain top.

The Standard, New York

The eighteen floor Standard Hotel is perched river side in Dowtown Manhattan, providing the best of both worlds with views of the Hudson river and New York's iconic skyline. The best views can be seen from its 360 degree rooftop bar.....all the while sipping a cocktail.

Wildflower Hall, Shimla

Buried in the Himalayas, Wildflower Hall is the perfect escape for guests to feel at one with nature. At a staggering 8,250 feet up, hidden in the mountain forest, guests can join nature walks, take part in yoga sessions and play tennis at this luxury hotel, or they can simply admire the vista from their private whirlpool jacuzzi.

JW Marriott Marquis, Dubai

Inevitably, the world's tallest hotel gives its guests jaw dropping views over Dubai and the surrounding sweeping desert - it's so tall in fact that guests often wake up in the clouds.....literally.

Fasano Rio, Rio De Janeiro

Fasano Rio's views of famed Ipanema Beach, the Two Brothers mountains and Cristo Redentor - all from its rooftop infinity pool are what really make this hotel one to visit.

Kasbah Tamadot, Morocco

A hidden gem discovered by Sir Richard Branson's mum after falling in love with it whilst on a hot air balloon ride, Kasbah is now a luxury hot spot in the Atlas Mountains featuring staggering views of the surrounding mountains and greenery.

Llao Llao Hotel, Bariloche

Comprised of two separate wings, one classic and the other more modern, the Llao Llao is set within the Nahuel Huapi National Park surrounded by vast undulating rainforest and mountains.

The Yeatman, Porto

Looking out on the historic centre of Oporto and the River Douro below, the Yeatman boasts some of the best hotel views in Porto. These can be admired in style as guests can float atop their rooftop infinity pool, champagne in hand.

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

FRIDAY FEATURE: LONG LIVE THE LANGHAM 150 YEARS OF OUTSTANDING SERVICE

When The Langham Hotel first opened in June 1865 in the heart of the West End, it was heralded as Europe's first 'Grand Hotel'. It seems that not much has changed in the last 150 years as it is still considered one of the most luxurious five star hotels London has to offer. The hotel plans to celebrate its 150th birthday fully, with extensive refurbishment, exclusive events and new suites in the pipeline, ensuring this year will be one for the books.

Positioned at the top of London's notorious Regent Street, The Langham stands proudly. Offering a staggering 380 rooms and suites, there's more than enough space to offer its residents a quintessentially British experience. As the birth place of traditional English afternoon tea, it is no surprise that the Langham offers guests the very best in food and drink. Home to the infamous Artesian bar, declared world's best bar three years running, Artesian dazzles patrons with jaw-dropping inventions which ignite all the senses, such as their 'Above & Beyond' cocktail, served in a glass tumbler with a ball of ice over which an inflated plastic pillow floats, which when popped by your host releases the scent of Eucalyptus. Alternatively, Michel Roux Jr. at the Laundau provides gorgeous meals from breakfast right through to dinner, presenting classic French cuisine with a modern approach all finished with the hotel's seamless service. Happy Birthday Langham!

For any more information on booking a room at the Langham please visit our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911

TUESDAY TRAVEL: A GUIDE TO NORTHERN ITALY

From fabulous food to speedy supercars, experience the best of Italy with a tour of its infamous northern cities and regions. A short two hour flight from London Heathrow to Milan can see you enjoying an aperitif in the sunshine in no time at all…..

Sip champagne beside the exclusive Lake Como, home of the stars, where you can enjoy a two night stay in a luxury lakeside villa as you explore the beautiful vistas and villas nearby via speedboat. Alternatively, stay in the infamous Villa D’Este Hotel, one of Italy’s most luxurious establishments with a highly coveted lakeside location and a floating in-lake pool. Full of charming character and steeped in history, its countless bars and restaurants make Lake Como the perfect setting to kick off an Italian voyage.

A short journey down south and you'll enjoy the marvels of Milan – Europe’s fashion capital! A three night stay in the perfectly positioned Park Hyatt Hotel Milan will allow you to shop ‘til you drop. Whether power shopper or leisurely stroller, the notorious ‘golden rectangle’ of shopping is a tempting five minute walk away so you can fill your designer boots with your favourite fashion house’s offerings.

Sit back and relax as you travel to Bologna, the heart of the Emilia Romagna region – heralded as producing some of the finest foods in the world. From Prosciutto to Parmesan, see first-hand the countless effort and labour behind these delicious culinary delights with exclusive factory tours and more importantly – tastings! Put your knowledge to the test as you take part in authentic cooking lessons sharing age old family recipes and tips along with market tours, sampling some of the freshest produce the region has to offer. Spend three nights at the Grand Hotel Majestic in the heart of Bologna, allowing you to dine at celebrated Michelin star restaurants, including I Portici where you can sample authentic Neapolitan cuisine with the freshest produce from the Campania region. No trip to Italy would be complete without a visit to its notorious Motor Valley. Here you can dive head first into all that is supercars with Maserati, Lamborghini and Ferrari factories and museums. To really put those top speeds to the test, opt for an exclusive test drive day on the infamous Fiorano track where racing professionals will give you insider tips to really put those engines to good use.

For a taste of classic architecture and Europe’s ultimate collection of Renaissance art it doesn’t get any better than Florence. A three night stay at the sumptuous St. Regis or the ever tasteful Four Seasons will put you at the heart of the action and allow you to stroll to the Uffizi gallery to marvel at its many masterpieces or wander past the Basilicata Santa Maria del Fiore on your way for a meal at the triple Michelin starred Enoteca Pinchiorri. No tour of Florence would be complete without a visit to the Galleria dell’Accademia, guaranteed to wow as you admire Michelangelo’s David and other world-renowned pieces.

Having conquered Florence, finish off your trip at L’Andana hotel for three nights of ultimate relaxation. The former residence of the Duke of Tuscany offers guests an oasis of calm providing the perfect ending to a lifetime of memories. Home to Alain Ducasse’s only restaurant in Italy as well as an 18 hole golf course, spa and gym, you’ll be spoilt for choice when deciding how to spend your days. Try your hand at wine tasting, bike riding, tennis, or explore a little more with a Yacht excursion to nearby Elba Island – whatever you choose staff are on hand to cater to your every whim and ensure your stay is more than perfect.

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

FRIDAY FEATURE: LONDON'S BEST HOTEL BARS

Visiting London? Make the most of your stay by checking out some of the world's finest bars, from contemporary cocktails to classic aged Whiskeys, this is our list of some of London's best hotel bars to help keep you 'hydrated'.

Vista

The Trafalgar, Trafalgar Square SW1A 2TS

The Trafalgar's 'Vista' aptly translates to ' The View', stunningly situated above Trafalgar Square, Vista's roof terrace on top of the Trafalgar hotel offers a sense of tranquillity among the chaos of London's famous square. It's a classy affair with an abundance of black wicker, scatter cushions and even its own herb garden.

Open early April, Monday - Saturday 12pm - 1am and Sundays 12pm - 10pm
020 7870 2900

   

                                                                                

Artesian

The Langham Hotel, Portland Place, W1B 1JA

Heralded by Drinks International as the 'World's Best Bar' for three years running, 'Artesian' at the Langham Hotel combines Alex Kratena's unique cocktail creativity with a playful David Collins' interior, providing a drinking experience like no other. Kratena's inimitable cocktails pervade all of the senses guaranteeing an unforgettable and fun evening.

Open Monday - Saturday 11am - 2am and Sundays 11am - 12am
020 7636 1000

The Connaught Bar

Connaught Hotel, Mayfair, W1K 2AL

A sense of occasion and glamour, the Connaught Bar is the ideal place for celebration and luxury. Another of David Collins' interior masterpieces, inspired by Edwardian fashion and decor, provides the perfect ambience to enjoy the extensive cocktail menu and impress your guests.

Open Monday - Saturday 4pm - 1am

020 7499 7070

Dukes

Dukes Hotel, St. James' Place, SW1A 1NY

If Martini is your choice tipple then look no further! Stocked with choice ingredients selected by Dukes' own cocktail maestro Alessandro Palazzi, this hotel bar offers contemporary drinks whilst also catering to those with a more classic palate.

Open Monday - Saturday 2pm - 11pm and Sundays 4pm - 10.30pm

020 7431 4840

Dandelyan

Mondrian London Hotel, Southbank, SE1 9PD

The combination of breathtaking river views and Tom Dixon's interior design is what defines Dandelyan as one of the city's best hotel bars. However, its rooftop location overlooking the glittering city light is not its only draw, the botany inspired drinks menu designed by Ryan Chetiyawardana (of White Lyan in Shoreditch) make drinking here guilt free (almost!) and above all an absolute pleasure.

Open Monday - Wednesday 4pm - 1am, Thursday - Saturday 12pm - 1.30am and Sundays 12pm - 12.30am 

0203 747 1000

To find out more about exclusive holidays and luxury hotels, please visit our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911

FRIDAY FEATURE: CHARMING KENSINGTON AND CHELSEA

A favourite among our clients is the London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, with numerous luxury hotels in its vicinity, its no wonder why Chelsea is one of London's more affluent communities. We've put together a mini guide to Chelsea with some of its best restaurants and attractions so that you can make the most of your stay.

Restaurants

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay

Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HP

Established in 1998, the restaurant has grown from strength to strength and has been a proud holder of three Michelin stars since 2001. Ramsay's experience as a restaurateur speaks for itself - owning twelve restaurants in the capital alone, the restaurant is headed by Chef Patron Clare Smyth MBE, who is the only female Chef in the UK to run a restaurant with such an accolade. A combination of stellar service and inspired French cuisine, this restaurant is sure to impress.

Bluebird

King's Road, SW3 5UU

A west London institution. Bluebird encompasses a cafe, wine cellar, food shop and restaurant ensuring a buzzing atmosphere. Ideal for meeting with friends for cocktails then moving on to dinner or just to grab a quick lunch.

Zuma

Raphael Street, SW7 1AL

Sporting an extremely glamorous interior to make its guests feel at home, first class service one would expect and impeccable food, Zuma continues to fight off competitors with its dining experience. Twelve years since its opening, it is still one of the top Japanese restaurants in London and we believe it will continue to be for many years. 

Launceston Place

Launceston Place, W8 5RL

This eaterie has welcomed top notch guests for decades now and continues to do so, supported by its two Michelin stars. Once a favourite of Princess Diana, the restaurant offers a seasonally inspired British menu accompanied by a fantastic wine list provided by head sommelier Agustin Trapero (Winner of 2013's Best Wine List).

Things To Do

Shop on Sloane Street

Renown for its exclusive clientèle, the famous street is home to multiple designer flagships from Gucci and Dior to Cartier and La Perla, you'll be spoilt for choice.

Victoria & Albert Museum

SW7 2RL
Admission Free
Open 10am - 5.45pm

Established in 1852, the world's greatest museum of art and design can be found in Knightsbridge with a fantastic collection of more modern exhibits. Be sure not to miss its latest exhibition 'Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty' which has had critics raving since its opening, we're also particularly excited for the upcoming 'All of this Belongs to You', highlighting Britain's democratic election process by examining the role of public institutions in contemporary life. The Natural History museum and the Science museum are also nearby.

Saatchi Gallery

King's Road SW3 4RY

Admission Free
Open 10am - 6pm

Art tycoon Charles Saatchi's gallery exhibits contemporary art and has a dedicated space for emerging young artists. Since his move to art from advertising in the early 90's Saatchi has been been held in great esteem for his support of artists such as his work with contemporary greats Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin. 

The Curzon Chelsea

King's Road SW3 5XP

Home to London's largest screen outside of the West End , a fully licensed bar and plenty of leg room to get cosy with a loved one, this is the true way to cinema in style.

Hotels

As one would expect Kensington and Chelsea has a plethora of luxury hotels awaiting to take care of your every need, these include:

The Milestone

The Baglioni

Belgraves

To find out more about exclusive holidays and luxury hotels, please visit our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911.