TUESDAY TRAVEL: HEAVENLY MAURITIUS

Looking for a new escape?
With its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters Mauritius encapsulates everything a holiday should be. Its luxury hotels are framed by an impressive backdrop of volcanoes and mountain peaks with luscious greenery at their feet and idyllic beaches at their door. Widely regarded for its beaches there is also never a shortage of activities in which to partake, surrounded by the Indian ocean there is plenty of opportunity for water sports and diving whilst the island's diverse wildlife provides a great setting for nature parks and hikes.

When to go

Often associated with winter sun, Mauritius is a great year-round destination, its peak season is between October and April which can be very hot and humid whilst the winter season remains hot but also dry with the added bonus of holiday rates dropping by 30-50%.

Where to Stay

Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa

The western coast of Mauritius offers a private hideaway for this resort on a quiet stretch of beach, making it ideal for couples and spa aficionados. In this warmer more sheltered area of the island, the hotel is comprised solely of villas (with private pools of course) offering its guests the ultimate personal service with a minimum of three employees to each of the 65 villas. There are three restaurants for guests to choose from and rates include water sports, yoga and tennis - ensuring that there is never a dull moment to be had. The hotel is also family friendly with a kids' club for 3-12 years old, a children's pool and family activities in the surrounding areas. 

Constance Le Prince Maurice Resort

 Found on the east coast amongst luscious greenery, this resort is full of character and heritage with its 'suites' floating on stilts above the mangroves almost as if a natural part of the island.  The hotel boasts nearly two staff per guest making it clear that service is priority with staff always prepared to go that extra mile to ensure satisfaction. As mentioned in our family holiday blog, the hotel underwent a refurbishment which saw the creation of 12 new family suites with bunk beds and apple mac minis (to keep the little ones quiet). Also, the hotel plays host to the only over water floating restaurant on the island guaranteeing an unforgettable stay.

Shanti Maurice Resort Hotel

A great resort for all holiday makers from singles to families, this family run boutique hotel exudes relaxation thanks to its informal yet attentive service. Set among the tropical gardens of the south between quiet fishing villages, Shanti Maurice is very family friendly. Activities for children include a junior pop up spa with treatments and meditation, trekking in the National Park, exploring the Black River Gorges, cycling, scooter hire and snorkelling.

St. Regis Resort Hotel

An outpost of the infamous St. Regis chain set on what is said to be one of Mauritius' most beautiful sheltered stretches of beach. As with all St Regis hotels every room has a butler on standby, this, combined with personable staff speaking great English reminds us why the St Regis hotels are held in such high esteem. All of the 172 residences are beach facing, decorated elegantly yet satisfying all the needs of a modern traveller. Suites can also be adapted to accommodate families who can drop their kids off (up to 12 years old) at the Kite Flyers children's club where they can enjoy a fantastic range of activities.

What to do

In the unlikely event that you'll want to get up from your sun lounger, Mauritius has plenty to offer in terms of attractions.

Port Louis

Mauritius' capital is mostly seen as a shopping destination, however it also has an array of cultural attractions such as the Natural History museum, Blue Penny museum or another tourist favourite, climbing up signal mountain to admire the stunning sunset.

Maison Eureka

This mansion bears witness to Mauritius' deep French colonial history, once owned by a French sugar baron it features architecture well ahead of its time, its also rather beautiful thanks to its mountainous backdrop, exotic gardens and waterfall.

Grand Baie

This old fishing village grew into a tourist hot spot due to its great shops and evening entertainment, it also offers countless activities such as excursions, the interactive island museum and an aquarium to name a few. 

Black River Gorges National Park

Walk up the nature trail through the undulating deep green forests of the National Park surrounded by exotic wildlife (and if you're lucky a monkey or two!) to reach the highest peak of the island to witness one of its most beautiful views.

Casela Nature & Leisure Park

A fantastic way to spend a day for the whole family, this park offers amazing activities that you'll definitely look back on with a smile. Here you can 'canyon', rent a quadbike or segway on safari to enjoy the animals at your own pace, rock climb, zip line and there's also a petting zoo so the little ones aren't left out.

 Want to know more? Check out our website or give us a call 020 7724 9911

FRIDAY FEATURE: EASTER AFTERNOON TEA IN LONDON

Easter bank holiday is always a much needed mid-season break, many establishments at this time of the year offer a special Easter themed afternoon tea to mark the occasion, ensuring you have a fantastic afternoon - with a glass of champagne in hand!

Claridge's

Mayfair, W1K 4HR

A choice of twenty four seasonal teas from all around the world accompanied by an array of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with Polo gelée and cornish clotted cream, hot cross buns, Simnel cake and of course Laurent Perrier Champagne to wash it all down. Children's options are also available for those between five and ten years old, making it the perfect Easter half-term outing. 

Available 3rd - 6th April 2015, £75 per person, £35 per child 

The Landmark

Marylebone, NW1 6JQ

The Landmark's Easter tea is one for the chocolate lovers, allowing you to indulge to your heart's content. Breathtaking pastries such as white chocolate nests revealing a hidden pistachio cream and exotic coconut bavarois with mango jelly palate cleansers alone highlight this afternoon tea as a must. Of course, savoury options are also provided in the form of traditional finger sandwiches.

Available 30th March - 6th April 2015, £40 per person or £42 for Chocolate Afternoon Tea

The Dorchester

 Park Lane, W1K 1QA

For their Easter tea. the Dorchester is serving their award winning Champagne afternoon tea. Seated in the infamous Promenade, guests can enjoy a glass of Laurent-Perrier whilst sampling the delicious finger sandwiches and hot cross buns along with Easter themed pastries.

Available 3rd - 6th April 2015, £59 per person or £65 for NV champagne Laurent-Perrier Cuvee Rose 

The Ritz

Piccadilly, W1J 9BR

Another great afternoon for the whole family, The Ritz' Easter afternoon tea begins by offering children a chance to meet the Head Pastry Chef, Lewis Wilson and create their very own Easter egg. A chef's apron and hat will be provided as a lasting reminder of their wonderful afternoon whilst adults can enjoy 16 varieties of tea along with hot cross buns, scones and finger sandwiches. 

Available £50 per adult, Children's Egg making event £50 per child only available on 4th April 3.30pm - 5.30pm and must be pre-booked 

The Bulgari 

Knightsbridge, SW7 1DW

The high class fashion house's London hotel is celebrating Easter with an all chocolate afternoon tea. Their classic afternoon tea has been 're-imagined' by pastry chef Alexandre Talpaert, offering a chocolate inspired selection with chocolate chip scones, chocolate Madeleines along with savoury classics. Of course no afternoon tea would be complete without.....tea, of which a variety will be available. 

Available 30th March - 6th April 2015, £35 Classic Afternoon Tea or £47 with a glass of Champagne R de Ruinart

To find out more about luxury hotels, please visit our website.

TUESDAY TRAVEL: FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY

Let's face it, we can't always leave the kids with Grandma, that's why we've compiled a list of some of the world's best hotels in top destinations, guaranteeing fun for all the family - happy kids, happy parents!

Denis Island, Seychelles

This private island is what dreams are made of, luscious greenery surrounds 25 open plan villas on the north-western tip of the island, these open onto white sandy beaches reaching out into a turquoise ocean. Families can either opt for the Family Cottage (two adults, two children) or the Beach Villa which offers the added luxury of its own private pool so that the little ones can splash around, whilst you have a well deserved tanning session. The island's wildlife is sure to be a hit with the kids, turtles nest on its beaches in October and November, it also has an enclosure of giant tortoises for little ones to ogle. 

Cape Weligama, Sri Lanka

This complex offers four-suite villas situated by a shallow pool supervised by swimming teachers so parents need not worry. Two sandy beaches are also nearby for days when parents are feeling adventurous, older children can try their hand at a variety of activities and water sports including a PADI accredited diving centre. With the children sorted, parents can head to the infinity pool overlooking the ocean and finish off the day with a family bike ride around the local temples and villages. 

Ocean View, Harbour Island, Bahamas

This island owned by Pip Simmons later taken over by his son Ben offers a variety of cottages for all guests, however Pip's cottage is recommended for families (based on children sleeping in the front room). This cottage features a fantastic claw-foot outdoor bath making bath time a bit less of a chore, finished with comfy floral sofas and minimal designs. Guests gather for meals in the main house, where little ones can help the chefs by donning an apron and decorating cookies. The island offers plenty of activities to fill the day such as paddle boarding, snorkelling and diving or one can simply lie back and enjoy the sun (with a cocktail or three).

Constance Le Prince Maurice, Mauritius

The Constance is a resort hotel framed by the Indian ocean and offers a variety of suites from beach front to lake edge options. It has many facilities including a free-form swimming pool and floating restaurant, all topped off with charming service taking care of all your family's needs, so that you can enjoy the sun.

To find out more about exclusive holidays and luxury hotels, please visit our website.

TUESDAY TRAVEL: LUXURY LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

We're kicking off this week's Tuesday's Travel in Los Angeles, California. LA has always been a hot spot for luxury travel, with a hive of celebrity clientèle, it has attracted the world's top hotels and restaurants to its shores, securing it as one of the world's most glamorous destinations.

Hotels

Chateau Marmont
Sunset Boulevard, CA 90046

Considered by many as a Hollywood institution due to its long history of A list guests and its sought after location on Sunset Boulevard, Chateau Marmont offers a variety of rooms, suites and bungalows for its clients to enjoy. With all the facilities one would expect from a five star establishment (such as a fitness centre and pet amenities and inspired by blueprints of a French castle, Chateau Marmont has a history as spectacular as its architecture,


Four Seasons LA at Beverly Hills
South Doheny Drive, CA 90048

An outpost of the world-class Four Seasons Hotels, its name alone exudes the class and exclusivity that has surrounded these hotels for decades. A bastion of luxury travel, the Four Seasons LA has an endless list of facilities and amenities to ensure a relaxing and effortless break from reality. The hotel boasts an outdoor pool with a cafe and cabanas - the perfect way to lap up the Californian sun (whilst enjoying a cocktail of course!). It is also home to a spa offering a wide variety of treatments from Swedish Tissue Massage to foot reflexology.


The Beverly Hills Hotel
Sunset Boulevard, CA 90210

As part of the Dorchester Collection, offering luxury establishments worldwide, The Beverly Hills Hotel is no exception. Set in the coveted 90210 'zip code', the affectionately named 'Pink Palace' (due to its pink exterior) is surrounded by twelve acres of luscious tropical gardens. The outdoor pool offers private cabanas as well as a chance to dine at the acclaimed Cafe Cabana.


The Penninsula Beverly Hills
South Santa Monica Boulevard, CA 90212

Located minutes from the legendary Rodeo Drive and walking distance from Century City shopping centre, this hotel is the only Southern California hotel accredited with AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star Rating every year since 1993; when looking at the services and facilities offered it is plain to see why this is. Declaring itself the ultimate home-from-home, the hotel offers 16 private garden villas in a discreet residential setting (ideal from any camera shy celebs) among its 192 rooms and suites. You'll also find a sixty foot outdoor rooftop pool framed by private cabanas with breathtaking city views.

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Dining

Matsuhisa

La Cienega Boulevard, CA 90211

Chef Nobu Matsuhisa's first, and often regarded as his best, restaurant has become a Californian institution. Serving some of the finest Japanese food in LA, described by some as 'Asian food from God', make sure to book a table early to be guaranteed a great night.

The Ivy

North Robertson Boulevard, CA 90048

A favourite among the stars, you're likely to recognise a few faces here from the big screen. Diners at The Ivy are offered a wide variety of dishes originating from America, Italy and other regions, ensuring all palates are pleased.







Yamashiro
North Sycamore Avenue, CA 90068

Yamashiro serves Cal-Asian cuisine with unrivalled views over Hollywood. Set high in the Hollywood Hills, this is the perfect destination for an evening of romance and cocktails packed with a punch.







CUT
Wilshire Boulevard, CA 90212

Wolfgang Puck's CUT at the Beverly Wilshire (A Four Seasons Hotel) is described as a simplistic steakhouse and is anything but. The interior design by Richard Meier (architect of the Getty Centre) and mastermind variations of the obvious classic steak and chips theme set Puck's restaurant a cut above the rest - no pun intended.




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Main Attractions

LA Gun Club

East 6th Street, CA 90021

A quintessentially American experience, the LA Gun Club is an indoor shooting range for anyone who's wanted to try their hand at target practice. Frequented by all, from law enforcers to law makers, this is a definite adrenaline rush.

Kinara Spa

North Robertson Boulevard, CA 90069

Skincare expert to the stars Olga Lorencin-Northrup's is the place to be right now. The beauty salon in West Hollywood provides treatments such as their trademark 'Red Carpet Facial', a combination of twelve separate treatments to leave guests ready for a glamorous night on the town.

Explore the City!

The sheer scale of LA offers fantastic freedom of choice, encompassing the neighbourhoods of Malibu, Bel Air, Hollywood and Downtown LA to name but a few. Burbank and Studio City speak for themselves, playing host to Disney, Universal and Warner Bros Studios with the chance for guided tours. Take in the sun and hit the shops in Santa Monica and Venice Beach - featured in countless Hollywood blockbusters!

To find out more about exclusive holidays and luxury hotels, please visit our website.

FRIDAY FEATURE: THIS YEAR'S WEST END WONDERS

Wondering how best to spend your stay in London? Then why not sit back and enjoy one of its fantastic plays or musicals (or both!). Visitors from all over the world come to London's West End throughout the year for a chance to see its phenomenal plays and musicals. We've put together a list of 2015's must see theatre productions in London's West End to make sure you don't miss out on the action.

The Twits

Royal Court Theatre, Tuesday 7th April - Saturday 30th March 2015

We're incredibly excited to see one of our favourite Roald Dahl creations take to the stage. One for all the family, coinciding perfectly with Easter half term, it's a brilliant excuse to get out and about with the kids!

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Bugsy Malone

Lyric Hammersmith, Saturday 11th April- Saturday 1st August 2015

Alan Parker's kid gangster flick hasn't been adapted for the stage for over a decade in the UK and The Lyric has set expectations high for this film adaptation. Running it for four months - as opposed to its usual three week production schedule, producers are gearing up expectant audiences for unmissable fun.

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Hamlet

Barbican Theatre, Wednesday 5th August - Saturday 31st October 2015

The age old Shakespearian play about the Danish Prince has had tongues wagging for months. Starring Britain's latest acting heartthrob, Benedict Cumberbatch, his faithful followers have caused tickets to sell like hotcakes! Luckily one hundred £10 tickets have been held back for each performance - crisis averted (we hope).

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A View from the Bridge

Wyndham's Theatre, Closes Saturday 11th April 2015

Arthur Miller's domestic tragedy comes to life once more with Ivo Van Hove at its helm. This play has been lauded by critics everywhere, consequently tickets are extremely limited, ending on April 11th - catch it while you can!

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Beautiful - The Carole King Musical

Aldwych Theatre, Until Wednesday 13th February 2016

Beautiful tells the previously untold story of Carole King's rise to fame, with Katie Brayben cast as lead role. Nominated for eight Olivier Awards, the show is already rocking the West End and will be running until February next year so you've got plenty of time to catch it.

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Memphis

Shaftesbury Theatre, Saturday 28th March 2015

Winning four Tony Awards in 2010 and nine Olivier nominations this year, it's no wonder Memphis has set tongues wagging. With Killian Donnelly and Beverly Knight as leads 'boasting some of the most thrilling vocal work you'll find on stage', this musical has brought audiences to their feet with its not stop raucous fun. 

To find out about where to stay in London, please visit our website.

FRIDAY FEATURE: EXCITEMENT BLOOMS FOR THE CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW 2015

With the first day of Spring upon us, what better way to spend a beautiful day than rubbing shoulders with the Royals whilst admiring the beautiful designs at The Chelsea Flower show. Every year the show attracts thousands of worldwide visitors to England's capital for an unforgettable week of sights and scents. Widely considered as the world's most prestigious flower show, we are extremely excited to see this year's fantastic floral displays.

The competition at the show has always been intense with designers battling against each other to be the most innovative, relevant and above all take home the coveted gold medal. Previous years have seen designers really push boundaries to impress the public and judges alike, 2011 saw Diarmuid Gavin with  Fáilte Ireland/Cork City Council garden unveil a hanging garden suspended 60ft above ground, winning him his first gold medal.

Year on year we are taken aback with the talent and calibre of the show's exhibits and it seems this year will not disappoint. In the pipeline for this year's show is a garden design by Matt Keightly, the force behind last year's fantastic 'Hope on the Horizon' for the Help the Heroes charity. He will be returning with Prince Harry's charity Sentebale, who are dedicated to helping impoverished children in Lesotho, Africa.

This year will be a first for Harrod's, who will be presenting their own garden with a perfume themed design. The department store's 'Fragrance Garden' will highlight the art of using flowers to create beautiful scents. Sheena Sheeks who is to design the garden has said she wants to reflect the growing industry in scent selection.

Another new exhibitor we are certain will astound this year comes from Al Barari Firm Management. Designed by Kamelia Bin Zaal and entitled 'Beauty of Islam', it will feature jasmine, rosemary and papyrus with an Islamic art influence. Not one to be missed!


The Chelsea Flower Show, 19-23 May 2015 at The Royal Hospital in Chelsea.
Full Day Tickets £59, please call 0844 338 7502.

To find out about luxury hotels in Chelsea, please visit our website.

LONDON'S MOST RELAXING SPAS, AN IDEAL GIFT FOR MOTHER'S DAY

At a loss for how to treat your mum this mother's day? Why not surprise her with a weekend fit for a queen at these London hotels' gorgeous spas.

The Bulgari Spa

Bulgari Hotel, Knightsbridge

To kick off our compilation is Bulgari's hotel spa, finished with sumptuous deep oak, marble and sandstone, the decor alone is enough to leave you feeling like a super model. Along with its relaxing 25m swimming pool, the high fashion brand's spa offers a wide range of treatments, from their 'Perfect Legs Retreat'  - ideal for any big occasion - to hair shine treatments and manicures to have you looking your best every day. The spa also has Gentlemen's Grooming and treatments, ensuring that couples can enjoy looking and feeling their best together.
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Espa Life

Corinthia Hotel, Embankment

If facials get your energy flowing then look no further. Declared as the best London spa for facials by The Telegraph, the deep cleanse provided by their recommended enzyme peel will leave you refreshed and ready for a night on the town. The tranquil ambience Espa Life offers, encased by its 'sleep pods' and cascading corridors is exactly what the doctor ordered.
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Como Shambhala Urban Escape

Metropolitan Hotel, Knightsbridge

Frequented by world class business men and executives, the Metropolitan hotel is the ideal place to decompress and rid yourself from stress. The spa is above all renown for its 'free flowing one on one conversation' sessions, allowing individuals to offload and unravel any bothersome issues, after all a problem shared is a problem halved.
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Bamford Haybarn Spa

Berkeley Hotel, Knightsbridge

With its unbeatable roof top pool surrounded by Carrera marble and lounge chairs swathed in fluffy cream linen, the Bamford Haybarn spa is an oasis among London's city skyline. Specialising in pregnancy treatments - ensuring mum and baby are comfortable and pampered, it is the ideal destination for any new mums wishing to soothe themselves of any pregnancy jitters.

THE ROYAL HORSEGUARDS HOTEL FEELING STARRY EYED

It seems that 2015 is the year for The Royal Horseguards Hotel in London's Whitehall, not only has it been awarded five stars by Forbes Travel Guide but it has also been named as a new Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Hotel. Combine this with its certificate of excellence from Trip Advisor for two years running, The Royal Horseguards Hotel is becoming one to watch out for!

The hotel facilities provide everything one would expect with five star quality, from a fully kitted out gym (personal trainer optional) to a 24 hour multilingual guest relations team ready to cater to your every request.

Its not just the history of the building itself at The Royal Horseguard that exudes finesse, its recent refurbishment in 2009 into a blend of modern day necessity framed by classical opulence bear witness to its novel five star rating.

A staple of London's finest hotels is their ability to contend among the greats with their provision of Afternoon Tea. The Royal Horseguards Hotel does just that, with its invitation only membership to the famous Tea Guild in 2012 and its consequent Award of Excellence it is no surprise that this hotel is a rising star.

Check out our guide to London's best 5 star hotels for more: http://www.bluebirdtravel.com/#!the-best-hotels-in-london/coln