Just Back From London – Schlepping and Sipping at Five Star Hotels

Sleeping around London to explore all the new openings and dine about town! Paris has the Olympics, Germany hosts the Swifties and the Eras Tour. London, does it ever stop? Latest hotel openings, new restaurants, a never-ending volume of luxury! Skyhigh Cigar Bars, divine Peking duck in a room inspired by the Keying, a three-masted, 800-ton trading ship. Underground pools, serene spas- so much to explore and enjoy.

Here are a couple of my favorite luxe stopovers- site inspections, I need to return and stay! The Peninsula, the rarefied Hong Kong brand is located on Hyde Corner, designed by Peter Marino with illuminating floor to ceiling windows in every room, even a starter room is extremely spacious. Overlooking Wellington Arch, the Household Cavalry trots past each morning, the distinctive Peninsula brand hallmarks are included in every room and suite; standard king rooms include a living space and large bathrooms and dressing rooms, large in comparison to boutique hotels. Spending 30 years to find the perfect London site, at cost of more than £1 billion, including 26 residences around the central entrance courtyard, the 190 rooms with dark woods and soft cream-colored interiors whisper serenity.

Spa – or Wellness Area – Breathtaking – the hotel’s lavish, 25-metre swimming pool occupies an expansive subterranean chamber, whose walls are adorned with intricately-crafted mosaic artwork depicting tranquil landscape scenery. Ambience: the illuminated overhead light panels change through the course of the day to simulate natural sunlight. The pool is heated and equipped with underwater speakers so guests can enjoy music as they swim; there’s also poolside lounge chairs, and all-day poolside dining. Brilliant Plunge!

The Peninsula Pool

Dining – we popped in for an elegant leisurely lunch at Canton Blue, the restaurant and the adjacent bar, Little Blue, have been inspired by the Keying, a three-masted, 800-ton trading ship which sailed between China and Britain between 1846 and 1848. The restaurant boasts its own entrance at the side of the hotel. Pop in at the sumptuous cocktail bar, Little Blue, which is the perfect way to kick off a rather glamorous evening. The restaurant itself is equally stylish, and the extensive menu offers a wide selection of authentic, flavorsome dishes, from finely executed dim sum to Peking Duck for two. The interesting wine list includes a selection of Chinese rice wines by the glass.

Cocktails galore. Upstairs, saunter and sip at Brookfield’s by Claude Bosi – a spectacular rooftop restaurant that is both a destination and a journey. The space, which pays homage to the classic eras of British aviation and motorsport, sets the scene for the modern British cuisine of Chef Director Claude Bosi.

Brooklands by Claude Bosi shares its namesake with the storied Surrey racetrack – the birthplace of British racing sport and flight innovation. The restaurant, as well as its dedicated lift and entryway, are appointed with a specially curated collection of artefacts honoring Brooklands’ history. Amongst the most remarkable of these is a vintage Napier Railton, the 1933 race car that set – and still holds – Brooklands’ speed record; and an arresting scale-model of the iconic Concorde aircraft, suspended from the ceiling of the main dining room.

Occupying an exclusive area of the rooftop, The Tasting Room, Cigar Bar, offers an elegant and relaxed space for the enjoyment of finely curated cigars. Cigar bar and a wraparound terrace occupy an exclusive area of the rooftop. The walk-in humidor, along with a collection of rare top-shelf whiskies, is overseen by Master of Havana Cigars Manu Harit. Patrons can also rent private climate-controlled lockers for storing their cigar purchases.

I need a return to enjoy the views and serene quiet and soak in the legendary Peninsula spa tubs.

Claridge’s. Maybourne group dazzling legend has enjoyed a complete facelift, which honestly was necessary. The ultimate VV British property has always been on the top of our client list. Although on my last stay, the thin walls and doors made me think I had guests chatting in my suite while I was asleep in bed.

The classic Art Deco glamour of the black and white checkered marble floors in the iconic lobby and the world’s favorite high tea salon have thankfully not been replaced. Claridge’s is the ultimate in old school British charm. A glorious throwback to gracious hospitality, the fancy afternoon tea is frequently sold out and worth every penny!

Claridges London

The hotel occupies a whole block of Mayfair real estate, mere blocks from Bond Street, with Soho to the east and Green Park to the south. This has always been a luxe neighborhood of boutiques and members’ clubs but in recent years it has also become the go-to area for interior design, art and some of the best dining in the city.  

The no expense spared remarkable subterranean excavation resulted in a new five-story basement nest. Art is a significant element to the décor; fashion illustrator David Downton’s work is omnipresent and there are Damien Hirst treasures throughout, including a brightly colorful stained-glass skylight of butterflies fluttering above the primary staircase.

Claridges London

The spa, previously a stitched together set of guest rooms, is now a triumph. A dreamy pampering salon which measures 7,000 square-foot which was part of the big subterranean dig. It exists within the new basement in a stunning serene space -designed by André Fu and has the first pool in the hotel’s history.

Bedrooms and suites, 296 in all, are offered in art deco or traditional Upper Crust British style. In numerous categories from Superior to Penthouse. Hip artist, Bryan O’Sullivan’s rooms have trippy touches with illuminated mushrooms and toadstool-like polka dot motifs while the Viscount Linley spaces are classic, silvery and art deco inspired. Either style is truly ultra luxe. Soaring suites with small terraces were honestly breathtaking, I could have crawled under the covers and stayed for days!

The hotel’s main dining room – now simply Claridge’s Restaurant – has been transformed into a swanky, leather booth-furnished modern-British spot. The black truffle crumpet is a must. The Foyer and Reading Room is one of the most glamorous breakfast spots in the city.  An alternative salon for high tea, the same airy bright space is accompanied by a harpist and soft music tinkles from a grand piano. 

Claridges Spa and Pool

A new addition and tucked into a hallway, the Artspace Café is a has its own entrance and a counter full of pretty patisserie; from croissants to sugar sculptures in the shape of the hotel’s crest. Craft cocktails and champagne flow in the Painter’s Room, Claridge’s Bar and the Fumoir. The Fumoir is just as elegant as always and a favorite spot of mine for an afternoon cappuccino or a late-night tipple. Discreetly tucked away in Claridge’s art deco interior, The Fumoir is where those in the know have enjoyed a quiet drink in London since 1929.

We have clients booked for dinner at Canton Blue next week, an appetizer to a sleepover!

Visited, but Not Stayed, yet!

Dazzling Dorchester London

One of London’s most revered five-star hotels, opened in 1931, a Grande Dame in a list of London properties, the legendary Dorchester is still a glamorous destination. I’ve always loved the splendid entrance, gazing toward the vast corridor of the dazzling Promenade Restaurant. The lobby spells luxury from the moment you arrive! Towering leafy palms, tufted sumptuous banquettes, flowers designed by noted designer florist, Philip Hammond. The Dorchester ambience is timeless. And the Promenade is one of the best people watching locations in all of London, sip your tea, nosh on petite sandwiches or a sumptuous breakfast; gaze about, it’s an elegant playground of grand international sightseeing!

Promenade Restaurant at The Dorchester London

Did you know Prince Philip hosted his bachelor party at The Dorchester? History has been made here on many occasions. First impressions are important!

The Dorchester rooms and suites are old school elegant, everything is quite splendid and flawless! Steeped in history, many of the suites have views of Hyde Park, decorated in an opulent chintzy style as the period dictates. Many have been redecorated in restful prints and color tones, so there is the perfect room for every guest, whether you prefer old school flamboyance or a more modern look. Oh, the bathrooms, are quite divine, over-size soaking tubs, acres of marble and polished chrome, two sinks for sharing. I also had a small window that opened for fresh air. I felt like Royalty during my stay, granted, my gorgeous Dorchester suite was destined for a Queen! No matter the size of your room or suite, there are always comfy chairs or sofas, modern amenities include big screen televisions, wifi, everything you would expect for refined living!

Multiple distinctive restaurants for your pleasure. Of the highest culinary palates, Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester offers three Michelin Star French cuisine in an elegant dining room. If you haven’t been cosseted in its centerpiece, the ‘Table Lumière’, you’ve squandered a glammy evening! Cocooned by a luminescent curtain of 4,500 shimmering fiber optics, guests can enjoy the ambience and buzz of the restaurant while being screened from view of other diners. Of course, there is a special Lumière’ menu, extraordinary experience on all fronts! The Grill is a traditional style restaurant featuring yummy local dishes ranging from grill favorites on the carving trolley to the restaurant’s signature blue lobster chowder. All topped off by an extensive sweet soufflé menu – a superb ending to a classic meal! The interiors were recently refurbished, the clubby space is a sparkling jewel of zinc, copper and glass. Do mosey downstairs to China Tang a space with beautiful décor evoking 1930’s Shanghai. Be transported back to the sumptuous, golden age of Art Deco splendor where a cocktail bar and traditional dim sum menu add to the ambience. China Tang bar is the perfect place to sit back and relax. The full Chinese and Cantonese restaurant menu is also available in the bar. Even if you don’t have time for dim sum, don’t leave the hotel without sipping a cocktail in the gorgeous bar. At China Tang, the menus don’t compromise on classical Chinese and Cantonese recipes. there are some delicious dishes, including the Peking duck. Presentation is an art, the roasted duck is presented whole and a glistening mahogany brown, long neck and head in place, tucked away gracefully under the breast. Be prepared for proficient server flair and a mini-theatrical experience as they slice and roll into delicate pancakes. Peking duck is served over three exquisite courses, each more imaginative and delicious than the last.

China Tang at The Dorchester London
China Tang at The Dorchester London

Spa – Everyone needs a different kind of spa treatment. Some want to pop in for a moment of luxury, to enjoy a treatment and get on with their day. Others long for a private, soothing space in which to find some therapeutic calm amid the roar. Here you are free to find your own way to take time for yourself, whatever that may be. Highly recommend Carol Joy London Caviar & Algae Detox. To cleanse the body and relax the mind, lymphatic drainage techniques, aromatherapy and meridian therapy are combined with precious Caviar Algae and Pink Himalayan Salts in this full body treatment. The body is detoxified, blood circulation improved, and skin texture refined using the mineral rich and revitalizing effects of Caviar Algae and Salts, leaving the body rejuvenated inside and out and the mind calm. Add on: the advanced treatment option includes the addition of Cellular Vacuum Massage to aid the detoxification of the body further. Facials, nail care, exotic body scrubs and massage and every day of the week, definitely make an appointment for a blow out or hair trim – this spa is totally full service. Gentleman’s barber, including a shave, steam room, professional trainers for a work out – this is one of the hotels you could call home!

Five-star accommodations, dining and oh, such exceptional service tops the multiple reasons to live like Royalty at The Dorchester in London!

Is this not the most elegant Royal bed you’ve ever seen? I stayed in this suite and didn’t want to depart! The Dorchester, London

Upgrade your life, our clients are exceptionally spoiled by my Dorchester peeps. Diamond Club Amenities as our guests.