I'd always heard great things about Cape Town and when I visited the city recently it surpassed expectations. It's a charming metropolis with clean streets, a buzzing marina, a mouth watering restaurant scene, mind bogglingly low prices and a wealth of nature on the doorstep. On the accommodation front, one spot that certainly won my heart was the Belmond Mount Nelson. I'd got a tip off about the hotel from a friend whose impeccable style and taste I firmly trust and with his recommendation, decided to investigate. This sprawling resort complex boasts 198 rooms and suites spread across s...
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Our taxi ride from the airport had been pretty hellish with our non-English speaking driver taking some very bizarre routes. But on walking into The Peninsula Bangkok all feelings of discontent were quashed. This distinctive tower, located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya river (the hotel has its own boats to shuttle guests across the waterway), is a true sanctuary in the city. We had less than 24 hours to go about exploring its inners during an overnight stop off on the way home from Bhutan. After a trip trekking through the Bhutanese wilds, the comfy confines of The Peninsula Bangkok...
Read more →When was the last time you spent a day without your phone close to hand? Well, in a bid to get away from the fast pace of modern day life I ventured to Ragdale Hall in Leicestershire with my mum Laura. I'd heard about the spa years ago but never found chance to visit. It's located around a 15-minute taxi ride from Leicester train station, with the rail journey taking just over an hour if you're coming from London. The hall's setting is sublime, with the imposing red brick building bobbing in a sea of fields running as far as the eye can see. Mum and I arrived at the hall around 1pm for an...
Read more →The thought of a traditional safari kind of filled me with dread. 4x4s waiting in lines crowded around animals and tourists clicking away with their long-range camera lenses. But in a bid to get off the beaten path and get a unique insight into Africa’s wild landscape, I signed up for a three-night tour in Kenya with The Luxury Safari Company. I certainly wasn’t disappointed and my fears of being on a ‘mass safari’ were skilfully avoided. GIRAFFE MANOR For my first night, I was directed to Giraffe Manor, which has repeatedly been voted one of the world’s most unique hotels. The gran...
Read more →The great thing about London is after years of living in the city, there's always something new to explore. Last weekend I discovered a new hidden away hotel, which made for a pretty plush staycation. If you're looking for a slice of luxury, something discreet and refined, then the St James's Hotel and Club is the place to land. For my mum's birthday, I checked us into the 60-room former gentlemen's club after hearing about its new wellness package from Perfect 10, which complements stays with healthy breakfasts and in-room massages. Mum's not a fan of massages - I'm not sure why! - so we ...
Read more →If you go down to Shepherd's Bush today, turn right before the bridge and walk down Richmond Way road, you'll be in for a big surprise. Tucked away on this quiet residential street is K West, a former BBC recording studio, which is now a hotel, bar and spa. Although it's been open for more than ten years, I'd never been to the spot. But a friend informed me the understated haunt is a big hit with music industry crowd. 'Everyone used to record here from Bob Marley to Amy Winehouse,' I was told as I was shown around the building, which still carries a sort of office-like vibe. I'd de...
Read more →'Perfect for emotionally exhausted souls.' Immediately on reading Bhuti's list of spa treatments, I thought 'this is the massage for me'. After a year of moving around, with a mix of highs and lows, a bit of soulful restoration was in order. Heading across town to the leafy calms of Richmond, I went to check out Bhuti and booked in for the emotionally-restorative kundalini back treatment (60 mins for £75). The new spa spot is an oasis of zen, with an airy atmosphere and calming interiors. On walking into the deceivingly big building, a smokey incense smell immediately lulled me int...
Read more →Jumeirah Carlton Tower is based in the heart of Knightsbridge, offering visitors and locals alike a 5-star haven in the centre of London’s most luxurious area. Surrounded by all the top designer shops, quaint gated parks and Michelin starred restaurants, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a summer stay in London. I experienced their heavenly Peak Health Club & Spa for a 60-minute Mohom massage. Upon entry, everything promotes tranquility and zen, which in the busy metropolis we live in, is a real luxury. Their soft white robes and slippers make you feel comfortable from the outset and thei...
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