Archive For The “Hotels” Category
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…
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…
Well, perhaps this is lucky timing for a review of a restaurant called POTUS! President Trump has been visiting London and POTUS Bar and Restaurant at Crowne Plaza London – Albert Embankment is just a stone’s throw from the new American Embassy. Perhaps Mr Trump will pop in to sample some solid American fare before…
This new and smart hotel is part of the polished Crowne Plaza group and it sits next to the Thames on the historic Albert Embankment. That location might sound, to the untutored, like a mound of earth or what those who hail from across the pond call a levee. Albert Embankment was created by the…
Funchal in Madeira is one of my favourite cities and Quinta da Casa Branca has one of my favourite restaurants. That is surely a recipe for delicious contentment and a very happy reviewer. I have not actually stayed at Quinta da Casa Branca but dream of doing so. It is perhaps one of the most…
This recipe has been generously contributed by Executive Chef Roberto Conrad and Chef Pan of Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort, Thailand The rich coconut milk base paired with chunks of chicken, round Thai eggplant, and chillies is a recipe for delicious culinary comfort! Grab a bowl of freshly steamed rice and green curry, and enjoy…
Holdsworth House Hotel is found along a rather anonymous road halfway between Leeds and Manchester, and not far from Halifax. It makes the ideal base for visiting Yorkshire’s Brontë Country and Calderdale’s beautiful and dramatic hills and moors. It’s a stone’s throw from the Lake District, one of Britain’s best-loved regions. This is one of…
Thailand is an easy country to love. A popular part of that land is Phuket and there is more to that region than just its glorious beaches. Any visitor would miss so much if they didn’t take a little time and a little tour. A half-day Phuket City excursion will show another and more traditional…