London 2015

VIP ShoPPIng

Unlock the doors to exclusive boutiques

RoomS to RemembeR The best suites in the city

London 2015

luxury shopping, supercar experiences, elite suites, spas and Michelin-starred dining

A SUITE VIEW OVER LONDON FROM THE MARYLEBONE HOTEL

HOTELS OF DISTINCTION | DOYLECOLLECTION.COM LONDON

|

BRISTOL

|

DUBLIN

|

CORK

|

WASHINGTON DC

The luxury of a stay at The Savoy now begins before you even check in.

Book a One Bedroom Suite or above at The Savoy and receive: – Round-trip transfers from all London airports and railway stations – Courtesy car drop off within a 3 mile radius (subject to availability) – Beverages from the in-room private bar – Pressing of one garment per person – Dedicated 24 hour butler service – High-speed wi-fi – Welcome amenity

Rates from £1,026 inc VAT. To make a reservation, please telephone +44 (0)20 7836 4343 or email savoy@fairmont.com fairmont.com/savoy

Follow us:

LONDON STAY

London I 2015 Edition Publisher Anna Zhukov anna@dotwnews.com Editor Michelle Wranik-Hicks michelle@dotwnews.com News Editor Steven Bond steven@dotwnews.com Assistant Online Editor Liz Wentling liz@dotwnews.com Contributors Georgina Wilson-Powell Director of Sales & Marketing Jesse Vora jesse@dotwnews.com Head of Key Accounts Shirley D’Souza shirley@dotwnews.com Account Manager James Stead james@dotwnews.com Sales & Marketing Executive Siby Thomas siby@dotwnews.com Art Director Kris Karacinski kris@dotwnews.com Art Editor Sarah Freeman sarah@dotwnews.com

Welcome If you think you know the lively British capital, think again. From curated luxury shopping and supercar experiences to elite suites, spas and Michelin-starred dining, this inaugural edition of Destinations of the World News’ London uncovers the city’s most incredible and exclusive experiences. We hope the 2015 edition inspires and entices.

Assistant Graphics Designer Eliot Sleep eliot@dotwnews.com Multimedia Manager Vandita Gaurang vandita@wnnlimited.com Multimedia Graphics Manager Haitham El Shazly haitham@wnnlimited.com Circulation department circulate@dotwnews.com Finance department accounts@wnnlimited.com International Commercial Representations Destinations of the World News’ network of international advertising sales and editorial representatives are based in the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, India, Italy, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Malaysia, Pakistan, Russia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America. Destinations of the World News is published monthly by WNN Limited and distributed globally to the world’s premier airport lounges, our subscriber network and a select number of five-star hotels in the UAE. The title Destinations of the World News is a registered trademark and the publisher reserves all rights. All material in Destinations of the World News is compiled from sources believed to be reliable and articles reflect the personal opinion of the author and not necessarily that of the publisher. Destinations of the World News is not responsible for omissions or errors that result from misrepresentation of information to the publisher. Advertisers assume all liability for their advertising content. All rights of the owner and the producer of this conceptual development and artwork design are reserved. Neither this publication nor any part of it may be imitated, reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission of WNN Limited.

Principal Offices WNN Limited, Reuters Building 1, Office 106, Dubai Media City, PO Box 500661, Dubai, UAE Tel +971 4 3910680 Fax +971 4 3910688 WNN limited, 31 Archbishop Kyprianou Street, 3036, PO Box 51234, zip 3503, Limassol, Cyprus To subscribe to Destinations of the World News at an annual rate of $99 visit the website at www.dotwnews.com and hit SUBSCRIBE. Images used in Destinations of the World News are provided

by Getty Images/Corbis unless stated otherwise.

DOTW News is printed by J G Cassoulides & Sons Ltd, Nicosia, Cyprus and Emirates Printing Press LLC, Dubai, UAE Published by

Facebook: dotwnewsmagazine Instagram: dotw_news Linkedin: Destinations of the World News Twitter: dotw_ news Tumblr: dotwnewsmagazine Pintrest: dotw_news

The exterior of The Shard, home to the Shangri-La Hotel

DOTWNEWS.COM

5

London

FOR WORLDWIDE HOTEL RESERVATIONS REGISTER AT

WWW.DOTW.COM Real-time online booking conďŹ rmations for more than 100,000 ground services in over 7,500 cities.

Net wholesale rates for hotels, resorts, apartments, villas, transfers, sightseeing tours and excursions worldwide.

FOR TRAVEL PROFESSIONALS ONLY

LONDON STAY

Colour, Kit Kemp textiles and irreverent style are the hallmarks at the Ham Yard Hotel

Contents

08 rooms to remember With 24-hour butlers and chauffeur-driven Jaguars, stay in one of London’s top-tier suites

24 vip shopping A luxury retail safari can unlock the doors to London’s most exclusive boutiques

28 spas in the City Treat yourself to a massage or a day-long pampering experience in one of London’s luxurious spas

18 City bites Where to eat, from Michelinstarred tables in Soho to lavish baroque dining rooms

34 london Calling From architecture to edgy cocktail bars, here’s how to make the most of 24 hours in the British capital

38 britain in style Channel your inner 007 (and choose your own supercar) with this James Bond-themed intinerary DOTWNEWS.COM

7

The Sterling Suite

LONDON STAY

8

DOTWNEWS.COM

LONDON STAY

roomS To

r em e mb e r

London travellers are spoilt for choice when it comes to superior accommodation – particularly in these top-tier suites, where chauffeur-driven Jaguars, butlers and even Burberry trench coats are part of the package

DOTWNEWS.COM

9

LONDON STAY

SUITE DREAMS

With curated artworks, rare antiques and plum locations, here’s a round up of the most spectacular suites in London’s hotels

Penthouse suite - Marylebone Hotel

tHe top-tier suite Has soMetHing few london Hotels could MatcH: a 40 square Metre private terrace fitted witH a fireplace

10 DOTWNEWS.COM

Urban, chic and modern without straying too far into minimalism, the top-tier suite at Marylebone Hotel has something few London hotels could match: a 40 square metre private terrace fitted with a fireplace and a flatscreen television. The terrace is the suite’s pièce de résistance but the 80 square metre interiors are equally as alluring, with a separate dining room, an open-plan lounge, dining room and bar, and a sophisticated marble bathroom, fitted with a monsoon shower and whirlpool tub. Guests can simply totter downstairs to dine at the elegant 108 Brasserie for exemplary farm-to-fork British fare, while the famed West End district is minutes away.

From £670 (US$980) per night www.doylecollection.com

LONDON STAY

spend The evening soaKing liKe royalTy in The suiTe’s clawfooTed roll-Top vicTorian baTh

The KensingTon suiTe, The KensingTon hoTel British luxury meets classic French elegance in this 180 square metre sanctuary, which includes not one, but two separate living rooms and three bedrooms, all featuring floor-to-ceiling windows. The exclusive boutiques of fashionable Knightsbridge are a mere coin toss away, while culturalists will appreciate the hotel’s location close to the Victoria & Albert Museum and Royal Albert Hall.

After you’ve spent a day soaking up the 19th century charm of South Kensington, you can spend the evening soaking like royalty in the suite’s claw-footed roll-top Victorian bath. The elegant tub is just a taste of the suite’s antique furnishings, which includes decorative fireplaces, a lacquered cocktail cabinet and 1930s Murano and Waterford Crystal chandeliers.

From £1,632 (US$2,385) per night wwww.doylecollection.com DOTWNEWS.COM

11

LONDON STAY

TheRe’S a powdeR Room peRfecT foR Red-caRpeT pRepaRaTionS

Cinema Suite Taj 51 Buckingham gaTe SuiTeS & ReSidenceS Lights, camera, luxury. The Cinema Suite is an opulent – if not eccentric – tribute to film history, the 170 square metre space designed by acclaimed Indian couture designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. An atmospheric boudoir of Chesterfield lounges, stag heads and gold-gilded frames featuring all the cinematic greats like Pedro Almodovar and Francis Ford Coppola, the suite has two bedrooms and a study artfully crammed with books and antiques. There’s also a powder room (perfect for those red-carpet preparations), but film buffs staying in for the evening can watch movies on the 85-inch 3D television with a Steinway Lyngdorf surround-sound system. As for popcorn?

Simply summon the butler to order your ‘cinematic platter’. £5,100 (US$7,465) per night www.taj51buckinghamgate.co.uk

12 DOTWNEWS.COM

LONDON STAY

bronze accents, the suite is fitted with stateof-the-art integrated technology, a Poggenpohl kitchen and dining room seating up to 10 people, along with an eco-smart fireplace.

Special mention must go to the bathroom: made entirely from solid marble, it spans an enormous 28 square metres. Unsurprisingly, guests can expect an experience that excels on every level, from the personalised Rivolta pillowcases and robes to the Burberry trench coat, which you can borrow for the duration of your stay, should London’s grey skies prevail. £14,000 (US$20,916) per night plus VAT www.maybourne.com

Opus suite the Berkeley This lavish suite affords a 270-degree view over Hyde Park and Wilton Place in Knightsbridge, but the interiors are a visual feast in their own right. Designed by world-renowned interiors architect Andre Fu, responsible for Singapore’s Fullerton Bay and Hong Kong’s The Upper House, the aesthetic blends symmetry and understated elegance, along with bespoke furnishings and a curated series of commissioned artwork – handpicked by the designer himself. With muted earthy tones, bamboo, limestone and hammer-headed

DOTWNEWS.COM

13

LONDON STAY

ROYAL SUITE

this suite features furnishings befitting of buckingham Palace

Jumeirah carlton toWer With a name like Royal Suite, it’s no surprise this suite features furnishings befitting of Buckingham Palace, fitted with every regal amenity under the sun from a free-standing bar and kitchen with a 10-seat dining room table to 24-hour butler service and a Bang & Olufsen audio visual system. There’s even a Swarovski crystal-studded ceiling in the bathroom, which comes kitted out with a jacuzzi, under-floor heating and REN amenities. The 155 square metre suite overlooks the vista of Cadogan Gardens and the high-end boutiques on Sloane Street, and along with a private entrance, tech-savvy features abound, including remote controlled curtains and lights and a door video security system. Listen to the soothing sounds of a resident harpist while having afternoon tea at Chinoiserie, or dine on British cuisine at the three AA Rosette restaurant, the Rib Room.

Fitness buffs will adore the Peak Health Club & Spa, which, along with a gymnasium, has a golf simulator, an award-winning spa and a 20-metre indoor stainless steel swimming pool.

From £6,995 (US$10,621) per night www.jumeirah.com

14 DOTWNEWS.COM

LONDON STAY

Sterling Suite The Langham Sterling by name, pure gold by nature, the Sterling Suite at The Langham will be unveiled later this month after the hotel’s final stages of renovation, and it’s not only tipped to be the most luxurious stay imaginable, it’s the city’s largest at 450 square metres with a possible six bedroom configuration, making it ideal as a family stay (for those with deep pockets).

With three master bedrooms and three deluxe rooms, the suite is inspired by the heritage of English pageantry and precious materials.

Designed by Richmond, the attention to detail and design is consummate, with hand blown Murano glass light fixtures by Barovier & Toso and Baroncelli, and more than 60 fabrics and textiles from luxurious suppliers, among them Rubelli and Dedar, Pierre Frey

among The ampLe LisT of Luxuries, The drawing room feaTures a unique duaL-Tone piano, a bespoke firepLace and a buTLer’s bar

and Townsend leathers. Artwork by revered British artists and photographers lines the walls, while custom-made furniture features exquisite gold and silver leaf hand-painted finishes, and marble and antique mirror work.

Among the ample list of luxuries, the drawing room features a unique dual-tone piano, a bespoke fireplace and a butler’s bar, while the expansive dressing room has delicate, handpainted chinoiserie on silver leaf panels and

verre eglomise glass with gilded age details.

Suite guests can enjoy the hotel’s exclusive facilities (such as the new member’s club, The Langham Club), and enjoy a private lift via Langham House, a private dining area and a separate home theatre lounge. Along with a 24-hour butler service, this suite really is the cream of the crop.

From £24,000 (US$35,818) per night www.langhamhotels.com

DOTWNEWS.COM

15

LONDON STAY

Belgraves – The PenThouse With interiors masterminded by rock-chic Brit designer tara Bernerd, the Belgraves has the sophisticated aesthetic of a private member’s club with a distinctly masculine edge. With rich textures and sleek, contemporary lines, the hotel’s moody dark hues are offset by bold artworks – a signature style that carries over to the premium pad: the Penthouse suite. spread out over 70 square metres, the suite has all the luxurious trimmings to warrant its name, such as a king-sized bed fitted with sferra linens and a leather headboard; a colossal solid marble bathroom with Frette terrycloth robes and ren amenities and a step-out terrace. there’s also a guest bedroom, which could prove rather useful when your friends refuse to leave. You can mix up a drink at the suite’s wet bar, cosy up in front of the fireplace, or explore the hotel’s other offerings, from the cigar terrace, where you can sample a vintage Cuban cigar and a cocktail, to Pont st – overseen by chef sophie Michell.

From £2,000 (US$3,006) per night www.thompsonhotels.com

boutique beds

London’s boutique hotels fuse art, textiles and designdriven interiors with pure, unadulterated luxury

16 DOTWNEWS.COM

LONDON STAY

roYal SUIte – Baglioni HoTel london Wake with a sense of La Dolce Vita to a leafy view over Hyde Park from the most prestigious suite at the Baglioni Hotel London. The Italian owned hotel is a favourite among visiting A-listers, and it’s only a short saunter from the city’s historic and cultural landmarks and nightlife, including the Royal Albert Hall. With Murano chandeliers, silk and velvet upholstered furnishings, a marble fireplace and the hotel’s signature striped fabric walls, this three-bedroom suite is luxuriously appointed and spans 240 square metres with two living rooms and an expansive terrace. You can soak in the tub of the sumptuous black marble bathroom (stocked

with Italian made Ortigia amenities) or book in for a leisurely afternoon at the on site Baglioni SPA, which has Turkish baths and Natura Bissé beauty treatments. Expect classic Italian hospitality and finesse throughout, from the Mediterranean cuisine and Sassicaia wines at Brunello Restaurant, right down to the Illy espresso machine in your suite. Naturally, you’ll have a chauffeur-driven Jaguar service for the duration of your stay, along with a private butler.

From £6,000 (US$9,110) per night www.baglionihotels.com

Ham Yard Hotel - Terrace SuiTe Bright, bold and beautiful– the interiors of this luxury boutique hotel conceptualised

by Firmdale Hotels designer Kit Kemp and hotelier husband Tim, are gorgeously vibrant with Kemp’ eye-catching textiles scattered throughout, from hand-embroidered Suzani curtains from Kit Kemp’s Chelsea Textiles collection to brightly patterned headboards.

The 145 square metre Terrace Suite is the hotel’s plum stay, with a living room, dining area, powder room and an Italian Boffi kitchen, it affords views over a tree-filled courtyard and of London’s skyline from the terrace. With two king-sized bedrooms, the granite and oak bathroom has a walk-in shower, a freestanding tub and Kit Kemp’s range of Rik Rak amenities.

There’s a butler to take care of any requests, a minibar filled with British treats, and even a personal iPad or Macbook to use for the duration of your stay. The hotel is a mere amble from Piccadilly Circus, but for evenings in, there’s plenty to entertain with a restaurant and lounge, a rooftop garden, a drawing room, library, 176-seat theatre and even a four-lane bowling alley. £4,080 (US$6,095) per night www.firmdalehotels.com DOTWNEWS.COM

17

LONDON TASTE

18 DOTWNEWS.COM

The Domino at Hotel Cafe Royal

LONDON TASTE

ciTy

b i t es London’s booming dining scene shows no sign of slowing down. Georgina Wilson-Powell has the score on where (and what) to eat, from Michelinstarred openings to history-soaked dining rooms

DOTWNEWS.COM 19

Smoked black Angus tartare and radish at Social Eating House

LONDON TASTE

Social Eating HouSE In the heart of London’s buzziest district, Soho, the tables are perennially filled at Social Eating House, which has a modern, casual take on a British menu, full of seasonal produce. Exposed brick, weathered leather banquet seats and quirky signs really bring this place to life; it’s full of refined character. The same can be said of the food, which starts with jars of nibbles to share, such as truffle salami or duck rillet, before serving up British delights including wild mushrooms (served from a bag), Cornish mackerel, smoked Lincolnshire eel and Kentish saltmarsh lamb. Save room for

Social Eating House Chef’s Table

dessert though, as there’s a range of boozy sundaes, some seriously lavish puds, like white chocolate ice cream mousse with Yorkshire rhubarb, passionfruit and vanilla crumble, and an impressive British cheese selection.

MuST Try

Don’t miss the five-course tasting menu, which builds dishes around the star ingredients of mackerel, artichoke, turbot, lamb and chocolate. Delish.

Social Eating House

20 DOTWNEWS.COM

58 Poland Street, Soho W1F 7Nr Tel: +44 20 7993 3251 www.socialeatinghouse.com

LONDON TASTE

YauaTcha

yauatcha

While the Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant in Soho has recently celebrated a decade in dim sum, Yauatcha is about to open a third branch in the City of London. Sumptuous dark blues and blacks envelop you as you walk in; this is a jet gem of a restaurant that manages to balance being open plan with being intimate and makes diners feel at ease regardless of whether it’s lunch or evening time. Its delicately flavoured sharing plates have found a real home among London’s A-listers with an expansive menu that takes in everything from Lobster dumplings with tobiko caviar to Violet macrons. Almost as big is the tea menu and signature cocktail list (try the Lychee Martini).

MuST Try

The Taste of Yauatcha tasting menu includes a baked venison puff and mushroom spring roll with black truffle.

15-17 Broadwick Street W1F 0DL Tel: +44 20 7494 8888 www.yauatcha.com

The Domino

The Domino, Hotel Café Royal Continuing Hotel Café Royal’s reincarnation as a sumptuous, heritage-soaked stay in central London, its baroque dining room, The Domino, will celebrate its 150th anniversary by collaborating with different Michelin star chefs. Each month will see bespoke menus created under the banner The Domino Effect. May will see the hotel’s Chef Andrew Turner work with New York’s Delware and Hudson, a Michelin star restaurant that’s been lauded as the city’s best new eatery, and Chef Ryan Tate who has pioneered Modern American cuisine. The newly revamped space is a lesson in

less is more with clean lines and muted tablecloths, under a ceiling of restored cartouches. The whole space just breathes with history; Hotel Café Royal has been where it’s at for the last century.

MuST Try

During May, book in for a four-course menu accompanied with cocktails inspired by the café’s original cocktail handbook from 1937.

68 regent Street W1B 5rH Tel: +44 20 7406 3333 www.hotelcaferoyal.com DOTWNEWS.COM

21

LONDON TASTE Kurobuta

Kurobuta by Scott HallSwortH One of the most in-demand chefs in London, Scott Hallsworth has reinvented Japanese cuisine as something quirky and fun with his informal but celeb-packed Kurobuta restaurants (one in Chelsea, one in Marble Arch), which have just won awards for being London’s best new restaurant. They’re small but perfectly formed, with a relaxed canteen style vibe, perfect for a pit-stop lunch in between shopping or meetings. Try out tuna sashimi pizza with truffle ponzu, red onions and green chillis from the Japanese Junk Food menu or the finger-licking steamed buns with spicy peanut soy. The group has also

Kurobuta

22 DOTWNEWS.COM

just launched a members-only, more upmarket restaurant and bar in South Kensington called Ramusake, which has set London’s fashion pack aflutter. To become a member, fill in the form on the website and wait for a call.

MuST Try

Where to begin? Order the Kombu roasted Chilean seabass with spicy shiso ponzu and sweet and sour snow crab with yuzu kosho mayo maki and go from there.

312 King’s road, Chelsea SW3 5uH 17-20 Kendal Street, Marble Arch, W2 2AW Tel: +44 20 3475 4158 www.kurobuta-london.com

LONDON TASTE

Novikov

Novikov

Asian black cod

This new opening from Arkady Novikov, Moscow’s most successful restaurateur, is a sleek, glam affair with three dining options; grab a table in the Italian room, Asian room or nibble on a more international menu in the Lounge, which has its own DJ. The Italian room has suede wall panelling, gorgeous mirrors in solid oak and a serious Italian wine cellar to match the robust, mouth-watering menu. The Asian room is calm, elegant and uses bamboo chandeliers and a lacquered ebony bar to conjure the mysteries of the East. Tuck into Pan-Asian cuisine that ranges from King

crab in penang sauce to delicate sushi and the globally loved Miso black cod. Private dining is also available and takeaway orders for those on private jets is no bother for these world class chefs. You’ll find London’s in-the-know crowd already at the bar.

MuST Try

Work your way through Wagyu tacos and tuna, foie gras and truffle carpaccio or a lip-smacking caviar selection.

Novikov

50A Berkeley Street, Mayfair W1J 8HA Tel: +44 020 7399 4330 www.novikovrestaurant.co.uk DOTWNEWS.COM 23

LONDON SHOPPING

v i p SHOPPING Whether it’s a rare Chanel bag, a vintage piece from Liberty or a private viewing of Louis Vuitton’s latest collection, luxury shopping specialists in London can make every retail wish come true

Floris fragrances, British

24 familyDOTWNEWS.COM perfumers since 1730

LONDON SHOPPING

W

ith access to the most exclusive boutiques in London, luxury shopping specialists are in the business of making shopping dreams come true – particularly for connoisseurs and fashionistas searching for elite, money-can’t-buy experiences.

In London, the growing demand for curated, exclusive experiences led Global Sinclair founder Jill Sinclair to launch a range of highly-personalised luxury retail safaris, unlocking the doors to boutiques in London’s top-tier shopping precincts and curating bespoke, behind-the-scenes experiences at Selfridges and Fortnum & Mason and Liberty, among others.

Designed for VVIPS searching for something more, the safaris are led by incredibly well-connected experts who go the extra mile to fulfill an array of customer requests, from ladies-only safaris that include trunk shows and personalised gifts to gentlemen's safaris including tailoring, cigar and watch experiences.

Catering to what Sinclair describes as “global sophisticates”, every safari is tailored to include out-of-the-box experiences around gourmet, shopping, art and culture in London and the UK. “So many clients

coming to London want more of an in depth shopping experience – not the cookie cutter typical round of the same shops but an unique and enriched experience,” she says. “We have personal shoppers and art curators, and will work with the top brands to provide an exclusive access that no one else has. Access to products that aren’t even on the market yet.”

From ‘behind the scenes at Burberry’ and bespoke hat making to a private perfume experience in Liberty’s heritage room or advanced exclusives from Prada, Chanel or Dior, nothing is impossible. One recent experience saw a famous French boutique in Sloane Street closed to the public for an exclusive birthday party and a pre-edit consultation, with an artist personalising luggage and bags. “We have seen more and more collaboration with art," says Sinclair.

"One client wanted their race horses' portraits painted onto a set of china and ceramics from Halycon Days. We've also had Liberty do a preview of their new Flower collection with a talk from the designer and access to their archives of prints, and couples wanting to buy a five-carat diamond and look at the stone, so we arranged a diamond safari and a De Beers diamond talk.”

DOTWNEWS.COM 25

LONDON SHOPPING Fortnum & Mason

Tiffany & Co

uNLOCKiNg LONDON’s shOppiNg seCrets LOnDOn hAS A MAGic of its own, says Sinclair, its secrets and exclusives not always on view but “deep with the famous roads, in little pockets and secret destinations within destinations”.

A luxury retail safari takes shoppers behind the scenes of the flagships of the iconic stores and boutiques, meeting the master experts and designers. here’s just a taste of what’s on offer.

◗ CheLsea & KNightsbriDge London’s most fashionable place to shop (and be seen) with more than 100 stores representing revered designers; among them the recently refurbished Dior and Valentino.

◗ Liberty Synonymous with luxury, design and iconic Liberty products since 1875, Liberty’s is also home to the world’s largest range of Manolo Blahnik shoes. www.liberty.co.uk

◗ FOrtNum & masON Favoured by British Royalty, the store is famous for its afternoon tea and hampers. www.fortnumandmason.com

◗ seLFriDges The iconic London department store has

26 DOTWNEWS.COM

recently opened a men’s personal styling lounge. www.selfridges.com

◗ harrODs One of London’s most famous shopping experiences, the upmarket department store has added a superlative perfume department on the top floor. www.harrods.com

◗ bOND street & mayFair Explore the wealth of elegant stores, exclusive brands and British flagships with ‘Bond Street by Appointment’ –one of Sinclair Global’s bespoke services. www.sinclair-global.com

Floris perfumes

LONDON SHOPPING Liberty

Cartier

Selfridges

Chanel Harrods

Alexander McQueen

DOTWNEWS.COM 27

LONDON REL AX

DOTWNEWS.COM 28a dip Enjoy in the pool after your treatment at ESPA Life at The Corinthia

s pa

LONDON REL AX

in thE city Whether you suffer from jet lag, stiff shoulders or simply seek a day of indulgent pampering, there’s a London spa to suit, writes Georgina Wilson-Powell

DOTWNEWS.COM 29

LONDON REL AX

Take a dip in The 60 meTre ionised pool and be sooThed by The CasCading waTerfall

The ionised pool at aman Spa

AmAn SpA The ConnaughT One of Mayfair’s most prestigious hotels, The Connaught simply oozes old school glamour and European elegance. The first Aman Spa outside the famous Aman resorts is a sleek and simple space that will recharge even the most weary batteries. Take a dip in the 60-metre ionised pool, be soothed by the cascading waterfall or sweat it out in the crystal steam room. Treatments are inspired by Asia, India and the Americas but personalised to your needs, pulling out all the stops to restore balance and bring back peace and harmony to your body and mind. There are also free daily 30 DOTWNEWS.COM

mindfulness classes. The spa’s traveller menu will be of special interest to jet-setters, covering massages, body scrubs and facials or the fitness centre also offers combined yoga and pilates treatments to realign your spine and mind.

ThE SigNaTurE: Jet Lag recovery

A two-and-a-half hour restorative programme can reduce the effects of jet lag and help your body clock adjust. An invigorating body brush, detoxing body mask, personalised facial and soothing massage will leave you feeling human again.

TEL: +44 20 3147 7305 www.the-connaught.co.uk

a treatment room at aman Spa

LONDON REL AX

ESPa life at The Corinthia

The Bulgari spa

espa life

Bulgari Hotel london

tHe CorintHia

You wouldn’t expect anything less from Bulgari, but this sleek and minimalist twostorey spa offers everything from a pick me up massage to long-term ‘life-improvement’ programmes tailored for each guest, such as naturopathy, reflexology and acupuncture. The Advanced Clinic offers non-surgical beauty and skincare treatments for those that want to get red carpet ready. Gentlemen are well catered for with an extensive grooming menu as well as skincare treatments, massages and facials.

Glide through this urban oasis under the hotel and feel the big city stress just slide off. A 25-metre pool inspired by Italian architecture, a relaxation room with a dramatic vertical fireplace and a fully appointed luxurious hair and beauty salon are just some of the facilities on offer here, all ready to attend to any wellness need you might have.

Even for spa regulars, The Corinthia’s ESPAbranded spa takes wellness to the next level.

Spa treatments, alternative therapies, fitness and beauty are combined in this four-storey, marble clad, chic modern oasis. An ice fountain, amphitheatre sauna, vitality pool surrounded by sumptuous day beds and private sleep pods grouped around a real fire all await your presence before and after your treatment. Or a Rush Hour treatment can revive or beautify even the most jet-lagged traveller in just one hour, perfect for the time poor. ESPA Life can help with lingering issues like sleep problems and stress with its Lifestyle Programmes and has a world-class team of naturopaths, traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncturists, herbalists, osteopaths, personal trainers and spa professionals on standby to ease you back to optimum health.

ThE SigNaTurE: 24k gold Naturalift antiageing facial

ThE SigNaTurE: gentleman’s Topiary Day

Harness the luxurious beautifying powers of gold to provide a natural alternative to Botox. Combined with acupuncture, it gives visible results, lifting and toning facial muscles and smoothing fine lines.

TEl: +44 20 7151 1010 www.bulgarihotels.com

Don’t be put off by the name; you don’t need a hipster beard to book in. A Daniel Galvin haircut and blow try, traditional cut throat wet-shave, personalised facial, manicure and pedicure and optional wax will leave you looking sharp and suave.

TEl: +44 20 7321 3050 www.espalifeatcorinthia.com DOTWNEWS.COM

31

LONDON REL AX

asian tranquility at Mandarin Spa

Mandarin Spa

Lobby and retail area at Como Shambhala urban Escape

32 DOTWNEWS.COM

Modern and understated, this two storey spa will put a real spring back in your step.

A range of massage and skincare treatments and longer rituals all begin with a soothing foot bath or if you’re really in need, book a half or full day of relaxation with multiple treatments for total indulgence. To stay fit as well as relaxed, the spa is home to a twin lane 17-metre pool, and state-of-the-art fitness centre, which also offers personal training, meaning you don’t have to miss a structured workout away from home.

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park

ThE SigNaTurE: aroma Shell release

Just steps away from the luxury stores of Knightsbridge is this absolutely stunning haven of Asian tranquility. Each guest is treated to five-star service with a personalised consultation before any treatments are decided upon. Arrive early to take advantage of vitality pools, amethyst crystal steam rooms and a Zen colour therapy relaxation room.

This unique experience for men and women combines hot lava shells with cold glacial shells to ease muscle tension and allow for a deeper massage. The temperature differences invigorate the lymphatic system, essential when you travel often.

Tel: +44 20 7838 9888 www.mandarinoriental.com

LONDON REL AX

Spa, Four Seasons hotel london

CoMo SHaMbHala urban eSCape,

Spa, Four SeaSonS Hotel

MetroPoLitan London at oLd Park Lane

at Park Lane

COMO Shambhala’s ethos is to practice holistic wellness, so think modern techniques with ancient healing rituals. Its spa at the Metropolitan London really does live up to its name as an ‘urban escape’. The calming white tones will soothe your soul as the fivestar therapists get to work. The spa also has reiki practitioners, energy therapists, yoga instructors and even counsellors on its staff, ensuring all your needs are met. Two double suites are available for couples’ treatments, one with its own steam room and beauty and grooming facilities are also on site. Pick from individual treatments, day packages to revive, relax and purify or ‘wellness paths’ that can be tailored for one or two people. And once you’re back on top form, pop upstairs into Nobu for celeb-spotting and cool cuisine.

There aren’t many spas in London that are lucky enough to have such glorious views like the one at Four Seasons Hotel London. Sat on the 10th floor, this gorgeous rooftop sanctuary has nine treatment rooms which all have floor-to-ceiling windows (darkened when you’re in there) overlooking the skyline in the heart of London.

Each room has its own private relaxation pod so you can immerse yourself completely in unwinding. In addition to expertly-executed massages and facials, the spa’s rituals are something special. The Hyde Park Awakening includes a foot soak, an organic bamboo and calendula body scrub and a personalised massage. Men are also well catered to with an extensive menu that covers grooming as well as relaxation. This sleek and welcoming spa will make you feel at home, whoever you are.

ThE SigNaTurE: Japanese Detox at The Met

ThE SigNaTurE: The Blue Sky Suite Experience

This luxurious, deep detox uses an ancient Japanese technique, Moxibustion, which uses mugwort (a type of aromatic plant) to heat meridian points of the body, assisting with purifying and balancing the body, and aiding sleep and back pain.

TEl: +44 20 7447 5750 www.comohotels.com

A private suite with your own relaxation room and a view over London sets the mood for three hours of treatments for two people, followed by a spa lunch with a glass of Prosecco to finish off.

TEl: +44 20 74990 888 www.fourseasons.com DOTWNEWS.COM 33

Photo: Getty Images

LONDON TASTE

34 DOTWNEWS.COM

LONDON TASTE

london

c aL LiN g london’s famous landmarks are known all over the world, but there are plenty of ways to get a new perspective of the city in a 24-hour stopover, if you know where to look, writes Christian Sylt

DOTWNEWS.COM 35

LONDON TASTE

View over London

U

nlike many major capitals, London lacks wide, straight streets. The roads that twist through the city are lined with buildings dating back to the 18th century. They are so tightly-packed that their foundations prevent London’s underground rail network, affectionately known as ‘The Tube’, from following the streets close to the surface. Instead the rails are buried deeper underground than in most other capital cities meaning that the 1.3 billion travellers who use it every year miss the majesty of this royal city.

The best way to see London is to take to the sky.

09.00 Most flights into London arrive into Heathrow on the west of the city, which is the busiest airport in Britain and Europe by traffic.

On a clear day you can get your bearings before you even touch down, as planes tend to circle over London and follow the river Thames on descent. Pressing your face against the window, you can see the Thames snaking through the city and spot the skyscrapers towering over the The National Gallery

Square Mile - London’s financial district in the east. The pyramid-shaped Shard is the easiest to see, as at 306 metres, it is Europe’s tallest building. As you descend, you might even catch a glimpse of the Queen’s official residence, Buckingham Palace, the biggest single building next to Hyde Park in West London.

10.00 After passing through customs your chauffeured car awaits to take you to The Savoy (+44 (0) 20 7836 4343; www.fairmont.com/ savoy-london) on the Strand right in the middle of the city. The hotel opened in 1889 and is proud of its heritage. It is split into Art Deco and Edwardian sections, which are themed to the heydays of the hotel. The Art Deco rooms are filled with teak furniture and lined with sumptuous leather wallpaper – the Great Gatsby himself would be proud of its luxurious touches including soft leather holders for the television remote controls and bedside photos of famous guests from Frank Sinatra to Bob Dylan. After unpacking ask the concierge to

make a reservation for 7pm at the Chiltern Firehouse in Marylebone (+44 (0) 20 7073 7676; www.chilternfirehouse.com). For now it’s time to explore the local area and the most wellknown sights are all within walking distance.

10.30 Strolling down the Strand you hit Trafalgar Square, which is famous for its centrepiece Nelson’s Column. It commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805 and is crowned by a statue of British naval officer Horatio Nelson looking towards the Big Ben clock tower. Across the square from Big Ben you will find Westminster Abbey (+44 (0) 20 7222 5152; www.westminsterabbey.org), the 700-year-old building where Prince William and Kate Middleton got married in 2011. It is also the burial place of numerous important British figures, so look out for the graves of Sir Isaac Newton, Geoffrey Chaucer and Charles Dickens.

12.00 Walking back and through Trafalgar Square will take you to Leicester Square, an entertainment spot filled with cinemas, nightclubs and casinos. Some of London’s most renowned shops are next door on Regent Street. The flagship is Liberty’s (+44 (0) 207 734 1234; www.liberty.co.uk), a department store famed for its craft ware and graphic prints.

It’s also a good place to get a blow-dry and manicure as it is home to an atelier of celebrity colourist Josh Wood (+44 (0) 20 3393 3358; www.joshwoodcolour.com).

13.30 Head back to the Savoy via Fortnum & Mason on Piccadilly (+44 (0) 20 7734 8040; www.fortnumandmason.com) to grab one of their famous hampers to snack on later. Then

36 DOTWNEWS.COM

LONDON TASTE

Trafalgar Square

ask your driver to take you to the South Bank where street artists perform by the river. Forget the 135-metre tourist trap that is the London Eye observation wheel and instead make your way to Royal Festival Hall (+44 (0) 20 7960 4200; www.southbankcentre.co.uk/venues/royalfestival-hall), Europe’s largest centre for the arts. More than 300 free events take place in its foyer every year but the main event is found by taking a lift to the top floor where a terrace gives perhaps the best view in London: a clean sweep down the Thames from the spires of the skyscrapers in the Square Mile all the way down to Buckingham Palace and beyond. Admire the view over lunch from Skylon restaurant (+44 (0) 20 7654 7800; www.skylon-restaurant.co.uk) which has floor-to-ceiling windows and a threecourse lunch menu featuring cauliflower soup, braised beef and ice cream.

15.00 Time for your car to take you a little further afield to St Paul’s cathedral (+44 (0) 20 7246 8350; www.stpauls.co.uk) on the fringe of the financial district. Statues of silver dragons mark the entrance to the Square Mile and St Paul’s is one of its most prized assets. Climb steps up its historic dome to try its whispering gallery where ingenious acoustics allow sound to travel around its circumference.

17.00 London is dotted with peaceful little parks and one can be found just north of St Paul’s. It is known as Postman’s Park because a sorting office used to stand across the road. A minute’s walk away is Christchurch Greyfriars, a rose garden laid out in the original floor plan of the nave which once stood there. Time to break open the hamper from Fortnum & Mason.

station re-opened in 2013 and unless you have the Savoy concierge’s black book, you will need to wait six moths to get a reservation. Customers include Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, Gerard Butler, Lindsay Lohan and even Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron. The Grade II listed Gothic Victorian building has high ceilings, large mirrors and a busy open kitchen.

18.00 Ask your driver to take you back to the

20.30 Head to The View from The Shard (+44

Savoy to drop off your swag. Then take a short stroll to the Thai Square Spa Covent Garden (+44(0) 20 7240 6090; www.thaisquarespa. com) for some pre-dinner decadence. The warm jacuzzis, fragrant bathrobes and soothing lighting will soon make you forget how much you shelled out in the shops.

(0) 344 499 7222; www.theviewfromtheshard.com) at the top of the 87-storey tower, arriving before darkness descends to take in the panorama and other landmarks for your next trip. For one last chance to get an up close and personal brush with London’s royalty, dance the night away at Prince Harry’s favourite nightclub Boujis (+44 (0) 20 7584 2000; www.boujis.com) or Mahiki (+44 (0) 20 7493 9529; www.mahiki.com) where Kate Middleton’s sister Pippa could be out in force with her entourage.

Be warned: after all that high-flying, it could be hard to come back down to earth when your whirlwind adventure in London finally comes to a close. ■

19.00 Now it’s time for your driver to whisk you to the Chiltern Firehouse where that allimportant date awaits. The restaurant is an event in itself and is the latest offering from hotel impresario André Balazs who owns the luxurious Chateau Marmont in Hollywood and the Mercer in New York. The former fire

Fortnum & Mason Leicester Square

caption caption caption

caption caption 16.00 Stcaption Paul’s is one of the most photographed caption caption

landmarks in London but shots of it usually have other buildings in the frame. The best way to avoid that is to nip across the road to the One New Change (+44 (0) 20 7002 8900; www.onenewchange.com) shopping centre and head to Madison’s bar (+44 (0) 20 3693 5160; www.madisonlondon.net) on the roof.

It has an uninterrupted view of the dome of St Paul’s and a wide tapas menu. Sipping a cocktail while admiring Christopher Wren’s stunning architecture is a calming experience.

It perfectly prepares you for more retail therapy in the boutiques down below.

DOTWNEWS.COM 37

LONDON PL AY

B R I TA I N I N

ST YLE Polished, suave and mysterious – the iconic international agent James Bond would feel right at home during this four night, five-day experience, which is certain to leave you shaken – and stirred.

38 DOTWNEWS.COM

LOND ON PL AY

Get behind the wheel of a supercar to explore London DOTWNEWS.COM 39 and the city outskirts

LONDON PL AY

Coworth Park

I

ncorporating only the best vehicles, boats and helicopters, you can channel your inner 007 on a curated British adventure with Vesperience, which takes in the best of London’s city and countryside, glamorous cars, sophisticated stays and oh-so exclusive Michelin-starred private dining. James Bond wouldn’t have it any other way.

Your Bond JourneY begins in London, where staff will escort you to Coworth Park, a late 18th-century country house.

With enticing spas and saunas, you can settle into your accommodation and hit the relax button, enjoying an evening filled with drinks and dinner prepared by world-renowned chefs at the two AA ranking rosette restaurant.

Day

1

Coworth Park

40 DOTWNEWS.COM

LOND ON PL AY

McLaren 12C

Starting off the second day with a proper English breakfast, it’s time to get behind the wheel of a supercar. after a briefing with the Motor Experience Director, you will be introduced to a bevy of beauties certain to make any automobile aficionado feverish with desire. the range includes the aston Martin DB9, a finely-tuned piece of English machinery boasting a 299 km/h top speed as well as reaching 0-97 km/h in 4.7 seconds. then there’s the McLaren MP4, now simply known as the McLaren 12C, with an impressive V8 engine which sits inside a featured carbon fiber composite chassis. Wrapping up the selection of hair whipping fun is the Bentley Continental gt Speed. Unveiled at the 2014 geneva Motor Show, it is described as the successor to the older model; the gt Speed now has increased engine power, an entirely new design, and incorporated new technologies developed by Bentley. it’s a tough

Day

2

Stoke Park Hotel

decision, but the choice is yours, and after picking your wheels, you’ll be free to explore the winding, tranquil roads of the English countryside, before pausing for an exquisite lunch. afterwards, take your supercar for one last lap before arriving back to the hotel for some more relaxation. that night, you will be transferred to the five red star Stoke Park Hotel for a very special James Bond themed dinner. a black tie outfit

is optional, but no matter what you wear, the catered seven-course menu wouldn’t look out of place in a Bond film. following dinner, you will be given an exclusive tour of the hotel’s country club where the Bond films, goldfinger (1964) and tomorrow never Dies (1997), were filmed. the epic duel between James Bond (Sean Connery) and goldfinger (gert frobe) is considered to be the most famous game of golf in cinematic history.

toDay iS yoUr exclusive James Bond film location tour. guided by an expert in everything Bond, experience life as an Mi6 agent aboard a high-powered speedboat. Whizzing along the famous river thames like Daniel Craig in the upcoming 2015 Spectre Bond movie, you will have the chance to explore some of the most memorable Bond locations. Making your way back to dry land, you will be transported to your next home for the night: the Dorchester. the epitome of timeless glamour, it is one of the world’s most iconic hotels, and since its opening in april 1931, it has been a favourite choice of celebrities, world leaders, royalty and high society. after some well-earned suite time, the buzz of London’s nightlife is at your fingertips. Whether you want to dine at one of the city’s fabulous restaurants or make an entrance at an exclusive club, you have a private chauffeur at your disposal.

Day

3

The Dorchester

DOTWNEWS.COM 41

LONDON PL AY

The london Eye

your Mission ToDAy, should you choose to accept it, is to take to the skies in a helicopter, capturing every remarkable view london has to offer. from buckingham Palace to the london Eye, you will be given the chance to see the city from a perspective few can brag about – except bond, perhaps.

After your skyhigh jaunt, you will be transferred back to The Dorchester to enjoy a leisurely lunch followed by a spectacular private tea tasting put on by the world famous East india Company. ranging from delicate infusions to headier, robust flavours, there’s a tea to suit every palette, and to aid your choice and answer any questions, you will have your very own tea sommelier.

At dinner, you can dine on a sumptuous seven-course chef’s table tasting experience at the hotel’s three Michelin-starred restaurant,

Day

4

42 DOTWNEWS.COM

Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester

Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, hosted in in an exclusive, private venue.

Enjoy onE lAsT brEAkfAsT, before you are whisked back to the airport with private transportation. from supercars to highflying helicopters, your bond journey has come to an end, but one thing is for certain: it’s as close as you will ever get to serving in Her Majesty’s secret service. ■

Day

5

The important bit priCE: Britain in Style is priced at US$10,000 per person based on two sharing and US$10,758 per person for single occupancy at The Dorchester in Mayfair.

WhEN: From August 6-10 TEl: +44 (0) 1753 836 600 vesperience.com

Upperclass 235x335mm.ai

5:06

14/26/6

1 PM

Upperclass 235x335mm.ai

5:06

14/26/6

1 PM