One of London’s most elegant hotels is The Royal Horseguards situate on the Embankment overlooking the mighty River Thames flowing sedately along to the sea. This grand property has been the center of a seated establishment for many a decade and still offers warmth, glamour and service to its patrons. Many politicians and statesmen frequent the hotel today because of its closeness to the Houses of Parliament and Ministry of … [Read more...]
The Delights of the Menzies Welcombe HotelSpa & GolfClub
For many years as a youngster my Mum and Dad would take me to tea at this superb property deep in the heart of Warwickshire. Only a stone’s throw from Stratford Upon Avon the hotel offers all the many delights that country house hotels are famous for. The 157 acres grounds themselves are glorious with many secret pathways leading to extraordinary sights of the rolling hills of this shire. Growing up in Warwickshire was for me always an … [Read more...]
A Night At Angelus….
London has become a mecca for great restaurants...contrary to the myth that has grown up probably due to ignorance and jealousy especially by the French and also by many Americans unfortunately. A few years ago I was invited to lunch with a group of writers in Los Angeles. It was given to honour the Minister of Culture from the UK. After the luncheon he asked each of us to speak a few words and when it came to my turn I told him that my mission … [Read more...]
Hidden Treasures of El Salvador
Hidden yet in plain sight is the poor but plentiful country of El Salvador in Central America. Bound on one side by the brilliant blue waters of the South Pacific Ocean, cornered by Honduras and Guatemala it is a country of many different facets each one shining light upon its varied attractions. Mountains, tropical rain forests, sugar plantations and the ever present pounding of surf on sandy beaches, add up to a traveller’s dream but … [Read more...]
Roseate House, London
One of the most enjoyable stays I have experienced in London was at the Roseate House situate at 3 - 5 Westbourne Terrace. Many years past I had owned a mews flat on the Terrace and was excited to return to this area that has so much historical relevance at least for me. Centrally located it is just a 5 minute walk to Paddington Station. The hotel combines three absolutely marvelous Regency townhouses of grey stone that trot merrily side by … [Read more...]
Budapest: City of Change
There is a lilting quality to Budapest that changes to crashing crescendos as one visits different parts of this medieval city. Budapest has been prey to many conquerors...the Mongols, the Turks and more recently - the Germans and then the Russians. Now it has been restored to its own people, the Hungarians who arrived to create their first settlement early in the 9th century. This beautiful city straddling the Danube has much to offer to … [Read more...]
European Getaways – Paris and London and everything in between
Vacation time is any time in the climate of today's world travel. Just hop on a plane and in no time at all, or maybe a little bit more than that, you can be anywhere your heart desires. How does London with its fascinating history sound? Or Paris, the city of Light? Both cities boast super shops for inveterate shoppers; restaurants featuring every type of cuisine; museums, nightclubs, theatre the list goes on and on. Just footing around … [Read more...]
Market City Cafe – A Taste of Italy
Una Festa Italiana Probably one of the best ways to sample Italian wines is in a pairing with Italian cucina especially when chefs of note are involved in the preparation and choices, and so it was one evening. To celebrate the coming Holiday season this very special event took place at Market City Cafe in Burbank, California. Together the Executive Chefs from the MCC Hospitality Group joined forces to produce a superb repast -seven … [Read more...]
The Malvern Experience, be inspired
Journeys of a Lifetime The strong winds that blow from the highest point of the Malvern Hills orchestrate their own music and as I stood on the Worcestershire Beacon, the words of Sir Edward Elgar who was born within sight and sound of these ancient limestone hills came to mind, "there is music in the air, music all around us and you simply take as much as you require." Then there are the magnificent views; to the east, the smooth curve of … [Read more...]
Get-Aways for the Holiday Season 2010
London and York, two essentially English Hotspots! Many people celebrate the holidays in their own homes that can sometimes be absolutely marvellous, and sometimes not so especially when much planning and work are incurred. Of course, if you are smart, you will check the brochures and airlines for another way to enjoy the holiday season and I am happy to share two wonderful venues with you. Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill Set in … [Read more...]