Archive For The “Hotels” Category
Langkawi, or to give its official title, Langkawi the Jewel of Kedah – in Malay Langkawi Permata Kedah – is indeed a tropical paradise. Yes, that’s an oft-used term but an apt description of this floating gem. Langkawi is, in fact, an archipelago of more than 100 islands in the Andaman Sea, 30 km off…
Balmer Lawn is a large and rather imposing building set behind an open field, or lawn, where still can be seen cricket matches in good summer weather. The Lawn in the hotel name is actually 500 acres of open land grazed by New Forest cattle and ponies. The name of the hotel is thought to…
Great Britain and Ireland is the leading independent guide to hotels in Great Britain, Ireland, Continental Europe and the Caribbean. The Guide was first published in 1978. It has been published each October since then. It is written for the reader seeking impartial advice on finding a good place to stay. Hotels cannot buy their…
Boutique and Beautiful on Lower Sloane Street What a gem! I would say ‘hidden gem’ but it is a surprisingly popular corner of one of the smartest areas in London. Sloane Place is a hotel which deserves many happy returns. Situated just off Sloane Square, Sloane Place is a boutique hotel and café bar offering…
We in London will recognise SW7 as a postcode. The area is 4km west of the City of Westminster, and contains South Kensington and Knightsbridge, two of the smartest parts of the capital. The Melia London Kensington Hotel and its SW7 restaurant are a welcome addition. SW7 is a bright and contemporary restaurant. Blond wood…
Melia White House London Hotel is a shining example of 1930s Deco architecture. It was opened in 1936 as apartments, and one can still see original architectural features both inside and out. The metal window frames and the white façade are typical of this design style which gave a nod to the sleek ocean liners…
Melia London Kensington Hotel was the first hotel in this International chain in which I had stayed. It’s a Spanish group and there is a nod to that in its restaurant cuisine, and also in the fact that most of the staff seem to be bilingual. That’s a rather unique draw for those guests from…
Oh, deep Japanese food-loving joy. I think I have found my perfect Japanese restaurant in London! It’s called Miyako! It’s near both mainline and Underground stations and is a little gem. All of that with a fine chef and food to match, at a price that won’t make one’s eyes water! Miyako’s Head Chef Kosei…
This is undoubtedly one of the most noteworthy hotels in London. St Ermin’s welcomes guests with iconic architecture and unique ambiance (read more about the hotel here). It has other advantages too: The Caxton Grill (read my review here) and its associated bar. That is a convivial space with not only drinks but a lot…
Kruisherenhotel Maastricht is one of the most noteworthy hotels in which I have stayed in the Netherlands. Perhaps it’s one of the most memorable hotels I have ever visited anywhere. It’s a unique marriage of 15th century architecture and ultra-modern design. It truly is a matter of taste, but Kruisherenhotel was, for me, heavenly in…
St Ermin’s has long been a favourite hotel and now I can boast that I have actually stayed there and also enjoyed breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner in their iconic Caxton Grill. There is a separate street entrance for the Caxton Grill but it’s a treat to arrive via St Ermin’s reception hall. One…
Oh, the joy of the British countryside! Perhaps a picturesque village with rustic charm; could there be an historic coaching inn? Yes, indeed, and quite near London too. It’s the George and Dragon in the stunning village of West Wycombe. The village features many buildings of architectural value which were built between the 16th and…
Things to do at Outrigger Mauritius This hotel makes a wonderful relaxing retreat, and it can also act as a hub from which to visit other parts of the Island. But there are lots to do within the resort for all the family. The lagoon location will give both children and adults the opportunity to…
Stay in Dutch Castles and Eat like a Prince (or a Princess) It’s likely that my dear reader would not know that there are castles in The Netherlands; well, unless you had read my recent articles (and why wouldn’t you?). And it’s probable that few people know that it’s possible to stay in one of…
I have mixed feelings about Michelin-star restaurants. Yes, they can be striking and obviously the food will be memorable, but sometimes they lack soul and continuity. One has the sense that they might be trying too hard to keep that glittering accolade, at the expense of their guests. Il Gallo d’Oro Madeira has changed my…
Outrigger Beach Resort in Mauritius offers its guests so many dining opportunities. Each restaurant has its own character and will appeal to changing tastes and expectations throughout the day. Families with diverse requirements are catered for at all times in the other restaurants – but then one finds The Plantation Club, and that has a…
The Outrigger Mauritius Beach Resort has Guven Uyanik as Executive Chef. And he has already enjoyed some high-end international experience. Before joining Outrigger, Chef Uyanik worked in several countries including the UK and Hong Kong. He heads a team which has already carved a reputation for presenting fine food. This attractive hotel complex boasts a…
It’s true! I am an unashamed fan of high-end resorts worldwide. I enjoy comfort, amenity and, of course, food. Outrigger Beach Resort and Spa has all of that, and Mercado Market Dining tempts three times each day. This is a casual buffet restaurant located in a replica of a Mauritian sugar factory. It boasts high…
Dear tourist, please take a step away from London on your next vacation. Eton awaits and it’s a gem of a destination. Don’t worry about where to stay. I have a suggestion which will delight with its charm and comfort. You will likely not want to leave, so do your sight-seeing first. Well, why would…
I didn’t know what to expect. It was my first visit to Mauritius and my second to an Outrigger resort. The bar had been set very high! The welcome by immigration officials at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport was warm and friendly. This seasoned traveller braces herself for such encounters. There were smiles, jokes and…