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.

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.