Tag: hotel reviews

Sofitel BKC, Mumbai, Hotel Review

If you are looking for an experience of supreme French chic in the financial capital of India, look no further than Sofitel Mumbai BKC. Located in the heart of the city and the buzzing business district of Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), this establishment of modern French and Indian nuances, is convenient to reach for commuters located in the respective North and South extremes of Mumbai.

I had the pleasure of visiting this luxurious hotel during my travels to Mumbai, and while I did not get a chance for an overnighter, I was impressed by the grandeur of the property during my brief visit. The staff was extremely courteous and welcoming, and on enquiring about the hotel’s facilities and services, they were kind enough to give me the grand tour of the property.

A mélange of French elegance and Indian hospitality is spread across the hotel and this unique combination resonates in the establishment’s design elements. Possibly the most striking feature was the contrast between the carved stupa like structures in the lobby and the custom-made crystal and glass chandeliers, inspired by the beaded dresses of Parisian women who danced the Charleston in the 1920s, mounting and adorning the atrium ceiling. There are many other facets of the Indo-French blend all along the 14-storey building.

Sofitel Mumbai BKC houses 302 rooms, including 31 suites, with plush furniture, sleek finishing, paintings, wallpaper and textures to add to the visual appeal, cutting-edge modern technological instalments, and a view of the Mumbai skyline.

The grandest of the suites – the Imperial Suite, is a destination in its own right, emulating a modern and chic two-bedroom Parisian apartment in the heart of Mumbai. The theme of the blend of the two cultures carries forth into all the rooms with Indian motifs outlining curtains, windows and lining the ceiling. The artwork in the rooms is a unique collection of prints under the banner of “A Tale of Two Cities”. Each of the 10 different custom created paintings in the rooms, show historical monuments from India merging with landmarks from France.

The hotel also has several wellness options with a pool, a 24-hour gymnasium and a 24-hour spa. SoSPA by L’Occitane features unique treatments customised to fit every guest’s need. It sprawls over 6,000 sq.ft. on a dedicated floor and is a serene space in the buzzing district of BKC, especially with its immaculate features called the “Golden Drops of Luxury” which are meant to exude exotic gold rain. 

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The options for dining at Sofitel Mumbai BKC are also plenty and promising. The All-day Dining is named after the French colony – Pondichéry Café, and offers a spread of over 120 local and international dishes at its’ lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch buffets.

Attached to the all-day dining is the hotel’s bar, known as Le Bar Diamantaire, an ode to the diamond traders at the largest diamond bourse that neighbours the hotel. The most impressive feature of the bar is the wine tower that hosts approximately 120 varieties of local and international wines and over 800 bottles at a time.

At the other end of the lobby, is the hotel’s French Bistro, all-day breakfast and jazz lounge – Artisan. A true nod to French rustic dining, the menu offers authentic French classics such as Coq-au-Vin, French Onion Soup, Croque Monsieur, among other bistro regulars such as sandwiches, pizzas and refreshing salads, and some Indian café favourites. It also displays the hotel’s patissiers’ finest works with macarons, divine pastries and cakes and artisanal breads. I had the opportunity to grab a bite at Artisan and the Akuri on toast, a dish famous of the Parsi cuisine in India was a pleasure in every bite.

The restaurant ‘Tuskers’ on the first floor is a complete vegetarian restaurant, featuring delicacies native to the Rajasthan and Gujarat states of India. In fact, the name was inspired by the colonial name of elephants, the most humble and largest vegetarian mammal.

Finally, the Jyran – Tandoor & Fine Dining restaurant on the fourth floor of the hotel, offers the cuisine of the Northwest Frontier of India and is an ode to the poets and warriors of the region. The décor of the space is also simply stunning, featuring a wooden bridge over a shallow water body leading to the entrance and a two-tonne elephant made from scraps of metal. The restaurant’s most recent feature, however, is a gin bar featuring the best from across the world.

While I did have the opportunity to discover all these wonderful aspects during my short visit to the hotel, I missed out on the chance to experience pure luxury. But I’m now quite confident about where my next stay is going to be during my next visit to Mumbai. What about you?

Soho House Mumbai – Our Exclusive Review of One of Mumbai’s Hottest New Hangout

I had the pleasure of staying at the Soho House Mumbai during my recent travels to the financial hub of India. For those unfamiliar with the concept of these estates dotted about the cosmopolitans of the world, Soho House was founded in London in 1995 for people working in creative industries. Each House is designed for the city and neighbourhood it is located in, but all share the same ethos; “to create a comfortable home away from home for a community of like-minded creative people, wherever they are.”

Soho House Mumbai gives you a taste of this coastal cosmopolitan in India, as it is located at the shore of the famous Juhu Beach. It is surrounded by the animated cityscape on one side and the vast stretch of the Arabian Sea on the other. The 11-storey building houses six types of 38 bedrooms, welcoming single travellers and larger groups. I was travelling with a friend and had booked the Medium Sea View Room – and what a beauty it is! Approximately 45 square metres of space is elegantly decorated with vintage furniture, a nod to English colonial India, and features a king-size bed. However, my favourite bit has to be the elegantly long balcony that overlooks Juhu Beach and the limitless sea. The coffee table seating with vintage chairs by the balcony made it a perfect spot to sip a cup of coffee, catch on work, cosy up with a book or just unwind after a long day in the bustle of Mumbai city.

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There is a plethora of dining options at the Soho House, starting with in-room service ‘The House’ that is open to members and hotel guests only, and caters to all needs and moods at any and every hour. It offers classics found in Soho Houses across the world, as well as favourites from the local Indian cuisine. Breakfast for me, however, was an enjoyable meal every morning at ‘The Allis’, which offers quite a variety with options of Continental, English or Indian style breakfasts, and an array of energising beverages, coffees and teas to choose from. It is a relaxed space to socialise and entertain guests from outside, a concept borrowed from the original concept at Soho House Chicago. Soho House Mumbai’s speciality restaurant ‘Cecconi’s’ is located at the lobby level and is open to non-members as well. The restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine in a modern setting, in an indoor dining room, or the al-fresco outdoor seating facing the sea. It is truly a sophisticated place to impress your guests or your date.

The rooftop of this sophisticated edifice features an outdoor swimming pool and also offers a wide selection of food and beverage options. It is the perfect setting to sip on cocktails on balmy summer evenings, whilst one enjoys panoramic views of the cityside on the East and the Arabian Sea on the West.

The hotel’s gymnasium is equipped with the latest gear and machines, and also offers users time with personal trainers. Other features of Soho House Mumbai include ‘The Eva Room’ to host private and intimate events. It is also where Soho House hosts memorable events for its members on a number of occasions, with a myriad of events being hosted on a weekly basis. The structure also boasts a luxurious 32-seat cinema, with daily screenings for guests or private hire, for the ultimate cinematic experience, a unique offering in the capital of Bollywood. Both these spaces are open to members and non-members.

Soho House Mumbai is definitely one of the more happening places in the suburbs of Mumbai, with the crème-de-la-crème of the city visiting often. If you’re lucky enough, you may even spot your favourite Bollywood star sipping a glass of wine and enjoying a pleasant evening here. The charm of Soho House is brought about by its exclusivity and that there are very few to match it’s reputed hospitality and personalized service in Mumbai. And it is perhaps for this reason that photography here is restricted, to safeguard the privacy of its guests. Soho House offers a number of membership-plans that one can avail of, and after my visit, I think I may just take one up myself and explore more of these estates across the globe.

A Weekend at Hawkstone Hall & Gardens

I had the pleasure of taking a short getaway over the summer at Hawkstone Hall & Gardens, in Shrewsbury. A charming 18th-century Georgian mansion, the estate stretches across 88 acres of land and overlooks the Shropshire countryside and Welsh Valleys. Recently renovated and converted into a boutique hotel, the structure has been in existence for nearly 550 years and offers a romanticized old-world charm with modern and contemporary features and services. The main building is located about a mile’s drive away along a gravelled road, and we were captivated by the naturally beautiful and lush surroundings. Majestic double doors, grand staircases, high sculpted ceilings, rich drapes and antique furniture give the interiors add Hawkstone’s sheer opulence.

The hotel has 37 guest rooms, which each have distinct features, yet share a soft colour palette of duck-egg blue and calamine pink. The hotel is also pet-friendly, with some rooms welcoming our furry friends as guests. There is also another room with interconnecting chambers for larger families. Some of the suites, located in the main hall are named after famous authors, and we had the pleasure of staying in the well-appointed room Byron. Each of the rooms, however, is immaculate featuring opulent chandeliers, four-poster beds, luxurious Elemis bathroom essentials, a vintage radio, cocktail trays, Nespresso coffee, vintage radio and other elements of vintage décor. The bathrooms are as spacious as the chambers themselves, with far off views of the estate and the Valleys – a heavenly corner for relaxation. Their in-house mascot Hector, a fluffy stuffed bear, gave us a warm welcome and was our companion throughout the weekend.

In proper English style, we stepped into one of the main parlours of the manor that overlooks the Hawkstone garden – The Saloon. There is a variety of menus to choose from, namely the ‘Traditional’, Gentlemen’s’ and ‘Guilt-Free’ menus. Whilst enjoying the view of the expansive gardens, we opted for the offerings in the ‘Traditional’ tea menu, which was a symphony of delicious finger sandwiches, scones, homemade cakes, tarts and pastries, and tea made with fresh leaves.

After tea, we decided to explore the property and came across the library that still houses books dating back to centuries. If you’re a bookworm, you will never want to leave this room. The halls of the mansion are dotted with antique paintings and have nuances of the original architecture. I was really amazed at how immaculately the current management has been able to preserve these authentic and key factors, even after all these years. its features at different nooks of the grounds. The estate is dotted with picturesque and delicate landscaping including a rose garden, croquet lawn, apple orchard, ancient cemetery, walled garden, a rivulet with a quaint stoned bridge crossing over, forested areas, cobbled paths, the romantic ‘secret garden’ and many others. My favourite, however, was the 18th-century original lily pond, where we relaxed for a fair bit of time on that summer’s evening.

Dinner was a quiet, yet luxurious affair, at the Saloon, again. We began our meal with a serving of fresh and juicy Heritage Tomatoes, with goat’s cheese mousse, tomato consommé and basil, a real treat in summer. The non-vegetarian started we opted for was the Duck Liver Parfait served with burnt leek, pear and pea emulsion. The meat parfait seemed delightfully light and airy, yet filling, with perfect vegetable accompaniments.

The vegetarian main course was a unique offering of Salt Baked Celeriac served with an oozy risotto of seasonal vegetables and tarragon cream. For meat lovers, you may enjoy the flavour-packed Garlic and Herb Cannon of Lamb with fondant potatoes, peas, broad beans and garlic puree. One can also visit The Saloon for dinner, available six days a week from Mondays to Saturdays, based on prior reservations. Although, the vegetarian options are quite limited, it is definitely a haven of gourmet delicacies!

The property is also accessible for retreats, for when your body, mind and soul need a break from the constant hustle of city life. With a yoga centre, wellness workshops, hikes, massages, nutritious meals and cookery demos, Hawkstone Hall’s 2-Day Escape and Energise Retreat is one for all the busy bees. The manor also makes for a great location for hosting corporate groups and team building activities. But most of all, this majestic Georgian manor is a dream wedding destination!

The extravagant Bronte Bridal Suite boasts 15 large sash windows with far-reaching views, a private entry corridor, huge bathroom suite, private dressing area, ‘emperor’ 7ft bed, banquette seating and a relaxation area. Every bride and groom is sure to feel pampered and well looked-after for the big day at Hawkstone Halls & Gardens. The imposing structure has its very own historic chapel, with working bells and an organ, where a couple can ceremoniously make their vows to each other in the presence of their family and close friends.

In addition to the Chapel, there are five other equally splendid rooms where once can celebrate their special occasion. The Wintergarden and the Refectory can accommodate between 150 to 250 people for a reception, and while the Ball Room is a setting for a more intimate affair, it is every bit as impressive as, if not more than, the others. One can also make use of the delicately designed Tapestry Room for a civil marriage ceremony or a small gathering of 100 people. And of course, on a balmy summer evening such as the weekend we had there, once can also take advantage of the expansive grounds to host a special celebration.   

Hawkstone Hall & Gardens, with manicured lawns, floor-to-ceiling windows with natural light flooding through them, Georgian architecture and antique furnishings, is out of a period-drama and a great place for people of all ages. And whether it be a weekend away with your family or a loved one, or festivities, this estate is definitely one to keep in mind for a rejuvenating weekend.

Weekend Staycation at The Arch, London

Always fascinated by London’s hustle and bustle during weekdays, I still enjoy coming back to the city during weekends for fun, shopping or just time away soaking all the things happening around the town.

Fortunately, there are gems of tranquillity tucked in the city itself that provide for a quick fix of luxury and pampering, perfect for a weekend away.

Recently, I had the pleasure of taking time off and visiting one such place near the famous Marble Arch – The Arch, London, a five-star boutique hotel. Situated near the district of Marylebone, one can easily walk to the area to visit the independent boutique stores there. The hotel is also at walking distance from the ever-bustling Oxford Street, making the hotel a perfect resting point for both tourists and locals, alike.

The structure represents a true symbol of British architecture and grandeur spread across 55,000 sq. ft. The boutique hotel was born from knocking down two hotels and a row of mew homes, and combining two Georgian houses to erect an edifice of luxury with British heritage.

One of the characteristics that set the hotel apart from the myriad hotels in the city, is its support and representation of art. The team has taken great care to display a specially curated collection of pieces by upcoming artists, giving them a platform to showcase their talent.

Right from the entrance, across the corridors of the hallways and to the rooms, the walls of the structure are lined with spectacular pieces of different genres, themes, and mediums. There are some notable pieces to be mentioned and spotted in the building as you walk around and soak the atmosphere

However, the most eye-catching and noteworthy pieces are, in fact, the hand-painted wallpapers in each bedroom. Each room is adorned by a different hand-painted wallpaper, giving it a unique identity different from the others.

I am no art connoisseur but I am definitely an admirer of the beautiful creations and various stories mounted upon the walls at The Arch, London. The estate houses 82 luxurious rooms and suites equipped with modern amenities paired with the comfort of a Georgian home and nostalgia of British architecture.

We had the opportunity to stay at the lavish Sullivan Studio Suite – just the oasis of indulgence and serenity I was seeking.

The suite includes a spacious room featuring plush sofa and chair seating and a large flat-screen television as a lounging section, where I could put my feet up and unwind with my favourite show and a steaming cup of Jing Tea from the mini-bar. The King size bed, dressed in soft linen and decadent fabrics,  made me sink into comfort and deep slumber.

The art in the suite itself was also striking. The floral hand printed wallpaper featured nuances of white strokes on a pale gold background and other pieces of modern art dotted on the other walls, adding a sense of magnificence to the room and bringing it to life. However, the piece de résistance of the Sullivan Studio Suite for me was a high-ceiling glass double door entrance into my private courtyard – a rare offering and site to otherwise find in the bustling city of London.

We ordered for breakfast in room to enjoy a lazy and laid back vacation morning before getting back to the reality of the city. This room was an ideal spot to get a taste of luxury while not too far from the city’s buzz – a true experience of a home away from home.

The rooms and art at The Arch are not the only attractions of the hotel. The food at their restaurant – Hunter486 was sumptuous and made for the perfect setting for date night.

It was an indulgent three-course meal paired with the most exquisite wines suggested to us from the list presented.

For entrees, we ordered the Salmon and Gilt Bream Ceviche with Dill Crème Fraiche  – a burst of cool and fresh flavours best for springtime and Chargrilled Spring Vegetables with Salsa Verde – a treat as colourful to the palette as it was to the eyes.

The main course was also as delectable. The Sun Blushed Tomato Polenta Fritters with Guacamole and Olive Tapenade was fit to be served at Mediterranean feast and is a complete delight for vegetarians. The English Lamb Rump with Basil Jus was a serving of juicy meat with perfect accompaniments to add extra body and flavour to each bite.

We ended our meal with a British Farmhouse Cheese Platter and a Fresh Pineapple Carpaccio and Banana Sorbet.

The food at Hunter486 is not to be missed and the restaurant also features a grand spread for breakfast.

However, the culinary experience at The Arch also extends to The Martini Library, yet another Georgian architectural room. You can book a spot here to spend our afternoon for an experience of true English high-tea with nibbles like finger sandwiches, scones, and seasonal cakes.

The hotel’s very own gymnasium is a delight to break a sweat in. The cutting edge equipment and premium machinery helped me to customize my own workout regime that was most suitable to my needs.

The Arch also boasts intimate event spaces for both corporate and social events. Be it a reception for 40 people at the Whitehall room, a private dining setting at the Martini Library or an interview or short meeting at the Study, there is a venue available for any kind of event.

Our Stay was truly an experience to remember with its exquisite gastronomy,  state-of-the-art amenities, mesmerising art collections, and unbeatable Georgian ambiance and comfort. I am looking forward to my next visit here and the many stories that the walls and hallways carry.

Review Brocket Hall and Auberge Du Lac

One of the finest stately venues in England, Brocket Hall has been the much loved weekend getaway destination for the elite. Located 22 miles away from Central London over a sprawling area of 540 acres in the lovely Hertfordshire countryside, it is one of the preferred locations for grand events hosted by the rich and the famous from the political, business and social circles. It is also home to the Melbourne Club, one of the most exclusive golf venues in the UK.

The place has an amazing history as well, which adds to its attraction manifold. With its earliest evidence dating back to 1239 and the association with the famous names like Lady Caroline Lamb (who had a scandalous affair with Lord Byron) and Lord Palmerston (the Prime Minister who died while making out with a chambermaid on the billiard table), Brocket Hall offers a slice intrigue for history lovers. Not only was it home two Prime Ministers but was also frequented by the royals like Queen Elizabeth I, Queen Victoria and Edward VII centuries ago.

I had the opportunity to explore all that this lovely location offers during a weekend stay here. And trust me, it does have a lot to offer- beautiful surroundings, sumptuous food, comfortable stay and of course, an interesting history. We stayed at the elegant Melbourne Lodge which is the lodging part of Brocket Hall, located right amidst its tranquil grounds. The lodge offers splendid views of Brocket Hall, Melbourne golf course and the Broadwater Lake.

Originally a coach house, the Melbourne Lodge now has 16 rooms, each of which is named after a racehorse. This has been done as a tribute to the history of the place, which used to be a race course once. Our room was named the Sun Chariot and I loved its decor. It was spacious, bright and airy, in addition to being well-aligned with the classic appearance of the rest of the estate. The vintage décor, with rich velvet drapings, squashy armchairs, illuminated oil paintings and china lamps, deserves a special mention. The bed in our room was crafted with a massive feature back to represent the regal era. The bathroom too had a vintage touch with deep bath and double sinks.

While the rooms at the Melbourne Lodge still replicate the rich heritage that the place is so well-known for, they also have all the modern amenities that you may want for a comfortable stay. with complimentary breakfast in the lakeside Clubhouse as a part of the package. Besides enjoying the luxurious experience here, I took immense pleasure in the refreshing views of the lovely lush green golf course from the huge sash windows of my room.

The peace and tranquility of the place impressed me the most, but amazingly that is not all! Brocket Hall is a serene and calm location that offers a relaxing break, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Still, there is something for everyone here. My little one loved the greens, golf course walks and rides in the golf cart. There was something incredible about the drive around the golf course; a massive lake in the center, the myriad ancient trees, and the impressive architecture all around, together made a feast for the eyes.

Now let me talk about the things that you can see and do at the Brocket Hall Estate. As a guest at Melbourne Lodge, you can’t get inside the Hall but wander around the parkland and also enjoy a guest membership at the golf club. I loved the lazy long walks by the Broadwater Lake and the mouth-watering breakfasts in the clubhouse.

But the most favorite part of my stay here was the sumptuous meals at the Auberge du Lac, the restaurant located in the Hall’s former hunting lodge.

Auberge du Lac has a charming lakeside setting the overlooks the sprawling country estate as well as the Brocket Hall itself. It has a beautiful lounge though I personally recommend that you relish your meals on the picturesque terrace if the weather permits. If you are looking for a private dining experience, the place has some tastefully decorated rooms that can accommodate 2 to 16 guests at a time. I found the service as well as the ambience of the place to be absolutely commendable.


Coming to food, the first thing I would want to say that you can expect a lot from Auberge du Lac because it has an AA rosette and the Michelin-starred chef, Matt Edmonds, cooking for you. What more, they will be celebrating their 20 years this November, So the bar is expected to be really high and they meet the standards as well. We went to have the famed 7-course tasting menu with wine pairing; they have both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options and even their main menu has lots of great options for veggie options as well and I tried the former as I am a vegetarian.

Comprising of unusual dishes such as Heritage Beetroot, B low Torch Smoked Eeel (for the non-vegetarian meal) and Miso Caramel Mousse, it was an absolute gastric delight. The wine list was equally impressive, with the likes of Pouilly Fuisse, Uruolat Jurancon and Chateau Montelena served as a part of the menu. The seven-course meal cost £ 85 per person with tasting wines at £ 135 per person, which can be considered whopping but were worth the price considering the dining experience we had. And one thing that I cannot forget about Auberge du Lac is that we were taken to the restaurant from the lodge in the golf cart which was as amazing as the food itself.

The weekend trip to Brocket Hall was a complete getaway for me as it had everything a looked for, the tranquility of the countryside, a luxurious stay, wonderful ambience, excellent dining experiences and views to die for. I will definitely make it a point to visit the place soon.

The Roseate – World-class Luxury Resort with peaceful seclusion and tranquillity

Being a passionate globetrotter keeps you firmly stationed on the gateway to new experiences. I love exploring new places, meeting people from varied walks of life, and living the hippie way. But every now and then, I crave a luxuriant travel experience where everything is larger than life and uber-comfy. Staying at The Roseate, Delhi was an exercise in exactly such decadence and one of my most memorable hotel stays of all time.

The Roseate, Delhi, is an exclusive urban-resort that combines the pleasures of world-class luxury with peaceful seclusion and tranquillity. It is a royal retreat, bang in the middle of India’s busiest cities; it is cloistered by greenery and acres of rich landscaping, yet close enough to the popular malls and posh places-to-be. It serves as the perfect getaway for city-dwellers and a taste of Delhi’s regal hospitality to visitors.

Personally, I enjoyed the calm quietude of the resort the most. It really helped me destress since I was sheltered from the noise, hustle and bustle of urban life. The ambience of The Roseate complements its thematic inclination to subdued, languid luxury. The façade and foyer are stunning with tasteful décor and a beautiful piano lounge. There are numerous lawns and open spaces surrounding the main complex where you can relax and unwind. The in-house spa and restaurant enjoy a wonderful reputation for their premium service. But my favourite of all its facilities is its huge pool which is touted as being one of largest of all Delhi hotels. There’s also a well-equipped water-front gym where I enjoyed some great workouts, admiring the view around me from the sizable glass building.

However, I truly believe that at a hotel, the facilities are not as important as the rooms. And in this aspect, The Roseate leaves no room for critique. The rooms are large and spacey, known to be amongst the largest hotel accommodations in the city. They have iPad-controlled fitments and pristine luxury linen. Some rooms also have a private pool deck and the steam area within the room. And the bathrooms are mini-spas themselves with lovely toiletries, double his and hers bathroom features, and awesome bathtubs as well. If you’re looking to unwind after a hectic stint at work or home, even a day in a room at The Roseate is enough to refresh you.

During my stay, I noticed that the beautiful hotel exterior is quite the magnet for wedding parties and photo shoots. In fact, many magazine photo shoots are scheduled here in the spring season when the natural beauty is in finest form. But honestly, I feel that the charm of The Roseate cannot be described in words. From the picturesque ambience and the luxurious rooms to the courteous staff and impeccable service, you have to live it to believe it. And I’ve had the pleasure of staying here several times. What about you? Are you eager to partake in its luxuriance too?

Good Hotel London Review – A profit for non-profit hotel in London

With a unique waterfront location, pure industrial design aesthetic and an uber-premium experience on offer, The Good Hotel is truly one of a kind: a redesigned hotel upon a floating platform, with a stunning view that every Londoner would love to wake up to. In fact, the on-point location and gorgeous view from the room were two stand-out features for me during my recent stay at the property.


Another highlight of The Good Hotel is its design. It is clean, modern and fresh; an ode to the luxury of simplicity and a style that I find truly delightful. Throughout the hotel experience, I noticed the purposeful contrast of industrial design aesthetic with natural materials, and the use of classic pieces and fixtures, which gave the property a truly unique character. Much to my delight, the minimal design ethos trickles down into the rooms as well, which are smartly laid out to make the most of each space.

I must say that I was rather surprised to see that there was no ironing board in the room itself; instead, it was shared, which was slightly inconvenient. Another surprise – no televisions! This can be both good and bad, depending on how you look at it. Personally, I felt that the absence of a television in my room encouraged me to get out. Rather than indulging in some binge-watching under a blanket, I took advantage of the nicely laid out workspace and made the most of the rest of the property as well. To my mind, the only downside of not having a television in the room is that I love unwinding in my room with a good show when I’m traveling on my own. But maybe that’s just me.

The workspace really deserves a special mention. In fact, it was one of the best parts of my stay. Not only does it inspire and stimulate the creative juices; it also offers plenty of light, personal space and WiFi. What’s not to love?

When it comes to food, the choice is slightly limited, but the fare that is available is deliciously good. I opted for tapas and soup for dinner – both were absolutely scrumptious. For breakfast, The Good Hotel offers a great spread of continental options to choose from, like avocado salad, tomato juice, fresh cheese and more. If you prefer a good English breakfast, like I do, there are plenty of options around the property to choose from.

Overall, I would give The Good Hotel four stars out of five. The Good Hotel is still a wonderful place to stay. It has a fresh design, a great location and is so comfortable that you can work and/or lounge around the property, all day long!

Also, Don’t Forget – Good Hotel is a social business initiative which re-invests all their profits to train long-term unemployed local people and educate disadvantaged children. By staying at Good Hotel, you are helping the local community to maintain these programs.

Click Here to Book this Hotel by Booking.com

Don’t Miss these 5 Hotels in London

Have no doubt – London is one of the most beautiful cities in the summertime (when the sun finally decides to come out!) Whether you’re from the city and seeking out a staycation, or visiting from out of town and looking to live the London life for a few days, I highly recommend staying in one of the beautiful boutique hotels that the city has to offer. And trust me, the city has a lot of them now, so I understand that choosing one to stay at can be a difficult task. That’s why I’ve put together a quick list of my five favourite boutique hotels in London for you. Here we go!

Leman Locke

Looking for a relaxing oasis in the heart of London city? Leman Locke is the place to be. I had the pleasure of spending a weekend at this chic property over a weekend away in London, and can vouch for its many perks – the location is spot-on, the design is contemporary and sleek, the host of restaurants are constantly serving up delicious fare and the cultural program that brings people together in creative ways is truly stand-out.

Click Here to Read out Feature on Leman Locke

Good Hotel

The first thing you will notice about The Good Hotel is its unique design – industrial yet contemporary, the hotel is set atop a redesigned floating platform with a great waterfront view, especially if you’re hanging out on the roof and enjoying some cocktails during sunset. I love the minimalist design and the rooms at The Good Hotel get it so right – simple yet sleek, comfortable yet contemporary, and full of every amenity you need to have a great stay.

Athenaeum Hotel

If you want a luxurious hotel experience while staying in one of the prime postcodes of London, this is the place to be. Though independent, Athenaeum Hotel offers an experience that can rival any of the popular five-star chains, but with the unique twist that comes with being an independent property. With rooms that are super cozy yet contemporary and a restaurant run by Michelin-starred chefs, The Athenaeum is truly a one-of-a-kind experience.

The Curtain

Looking to stay in a less commercial, more cultural, part of London? The Curtain in Shoreditch, London’s famous artsy neighbourhood, is a great option. The hotel is as creative as the neighbourhood itself – not only does it have the standard amenities and services that you would expect from any great hotel; it also has a live music venue!

The Ned

Situated in the heart of London, The Ned is ideal for those who want a modern experience but with a slice of history in it. After all, the building that houses the boutique hotel is a classic, designed by Sir Edwin ‘Ned’ Lutyens in 1924. Because of this, each bedroom at the hotel is full of design elements that are true to the twenties and thirties, along with great vintage pieces, gorgeous patterned furnishings, and rainforest showers. Be sure to check out Ned’s Club, where you can take in the view, go for a swim and have a cocktail at Canopy Bar afterward.


Book via this link on Booking.com and Receive £20 after you stay

Kentisbury Grange Hotel Review

We’ve all been there: stressed out by the pace of hectic city life and earnestly looking for a relaxing break close to nature. The next time you find yourself feeling that way, look no further than Kentisbury Grange, a wonderful hotel set in North Devon. It’s the perfect weekend getaway with the best of everything: a luxury country hotel which brings together elegance, peace and natural beauty. Recently, I had an opportunity to stay at the property with my family and experience all the pleasures that this wonderful place has to offer. We opted for a 2-night stay at the hotel, and had an amazing time, soaking up nature, spending quality time together and recharging our batteries.

Kentisbury Grange offers two options in lodging, the Classic Room, and the Garden Suite. We stayed in the latter, which is separate from the main building and located in the quiet gardens of the property. The Garden Suites are ultra modern, yet close to nature, as they offer the perfect pleasant view of the Devon countryside. If you’re looking to experience the peace and beauty of nature in a modern setting, the Garden Suites are ideal.

Each suite is well-furnished, with contemporary interiors, a king-size bed and comfortable seating area. The bathrooms are spacious and equipped with under floor heating – a major plus when it’s chilly outside! My favourite part was the porch: a great space to enjoy the evening, with lots of privacy. The suites have impeccable amenities too, with an espresso coffee machine, flat screen TV, free Wi-Fi access, room safe, iron, fridge, and hair dryer – you’ll find everything you need! Needless to say, the stay in these suites is comfortable, despite the fact that they’re not located in the main building.

Morning coffee in bed @kentisburygrange #nesspresso in the room #coffeeaddict #mondaysbelike this always

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There are numerous Garden Suites available for guests who appreciate being surrounded by nature. Besides the abundance of greenery, there are three splendid ponds on the ground. These lovely ponds are adorned with pretty lotuses and have ducks, geese, and fishes. These excited my son so much that he even named one of the fish as Big Bad Baddy after the Ben and Holly character!

Now, let me say something about the scrumptious food we enjoyed at the Kentisbury Grange. The Coach House Restaurant by Michael Caines promises a culinary experience of a lifetime – and I believe that it truly lived up to the promise. The restaurant is run by the celebrated Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines, so expect to be blown away by the quality and curation of the food! The menus have been carefully designed by the seasoned chef himself, incorporating fresh local ingredients to create impeccable culinary delights. Guests can even have a meal created according to their special dietary requirements. The Bar Menu is equally exciting, with an extensive variety of wines, whiskies and cocktails.

We savored sumptuous meals at the Coach House Restaurant by Michael Caines during our stay. A hearty English breakfast made for a great start to our day. We also sampled a delicious 5-course meal here. I opted for the vegetarian menu while my husband opted for a regular one, and both were absolutely heavenly. It’s easy to see that the restaurant works as much on the presentation and plating of the food as it does on the taste – making for a memorable dining experience. The dessert was awesome too, melting right as we took a bite and creating the perfect sweet note to end the meal with.

Glimpse into our 5 course taster menu at The Coach House by @macaines @kentisburygrange #tastermenu #gourmetweekend

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Morning breakfast on a sunny day at The Coach House @kentisburygrange #devon #staycation #ukblogger

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The visit to the Woolacombe Beach was another highlight of the trip, and I highly recommend making the trip. Located just 30 minutes from the hotel, the golden sandy beach is a favorite retreat for tourists in North Devon.

When all you want to be doing is siting on a beach sipping margarita’s 🍸 #humpday #wednesdayhumpday #beachbum #sharewithnext

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All in all, we had a wonderful time at Kentisbury Grange. Though our stay was short – our trip started on Friday evening and came to an end on Sunday afternoon – we carried unforgettable memories home, along with a promise to return soon.

Mykonos Ammos Hotel Review

While the Greek mainland has always been an attraction, the beautiful island of Mykonos has become a recent tourist attraction. Mykonos, also called the Island of Winds, has some of the most beautiful Mediterranean white sand beaches and what’s even better is that I stayed at the luxurious Mykonos Ammos Hotel, perfectly located at the Ornos Beach overlooking the Aegean Sea.  Thereby, making it easily accessible to the happening nightspots, restaurants and clubs in the island.

This elegant hotel truly derives its aesthetics from the surroundings consisting of rocks, white sand, water and clear blue skies. The lovely white interiors of the hotel were soothing and relaxing just like it’s spacious pool facing suites or villas which one could choose from.

As soon as I entered the room, the gentle sea breeze greeted me with a smile (at least I had a big one!). The pretty white interiors made one feel at home immediately. What’s more is the ultra-comfortable bed which one can plonk themselves on and simply curl up like a baby.

The bathrooms were spacious and the aesthetically designed wash basin inspired from the beach rocks simply catches your amazement. After freshening up under the big rain shower, the pool was inviting you. One could jump right into the pool or even laze on the beach chairs sipping on chilled cocktails and nibbling on small bites.

Care for some big bites? Well, they have four restaurants at the hotel serving a variety food like Greek, Mediterranean, seafood and a lounge bar as well. But, the beach facing restaurant Kuzina is what deserves a special mention. Delicious food all day long and a fantastic view of the Aegean Sea makes it an experience to remember for life. The huge breakfast spread that starts at 8 am in the morning makes you spoilt for choice. It is also perfect for those slow romantic dinners or simple lounging.

Their beach services are also worth checking out; providing their guests the best sunbeds and a prompt service to pamper you. Too much sun tanning and water? Head to the spa, for some beauty and wellness treatments. You can choose from a wide variety of organic body spas, sauna, facials, massages etc. to cleanse away those blues.

Step outside the hotel and you can visit the tiny shops for some retail therapy or even window shop to gather all the pretty sights and sounds. The cherry on the cake is that at the end of the day you come back to this sugar cube hotel that is sweet and inviting. This is one hotel that I would recommend mainly for its contemporariness and luxury. So go ahead and book your Mykonos vacation now!

Here is the link to our Travel Vlog – with Mykonos Ammos Featured

Leman Locke Apart Hotel, London – Review

Looking for a relaxing oasis in the heart of London city? Leman Locke is the place to be. I had the pleasure of spending a weekend at this chic property over a weekend away in London, and can vouch for its many perks.

First things first – the location is spot-on. It’s next to Aldgate East Metro Station, making it a convenient and easy choice for your next staycation. When you need a break, but don’t have the time to get out of the city, look no further than Leman Locke.

A stand-out feature of this “aparthotel” (a space that combines the best of apartments and hotels) is the emphasis on design. It’s modern and sleek, but has its own unique aesthetic that stands out from other properties I’ve stayed at before – it’s about clean furniture, meticulous details and calming spaces. Every facility, from the in-house restaurant to the rooms themselves, is designed with this authentic yet uber-trendy aesthetic in mind.

The restaurants in this property deserve a special mention. Not only are they uniquely designed; they also serve up an equally unique array of food. Hyde is situated on the ground floor and boasts of two starkly different but equally exciting avatars. During the day, it offers healthy, delicious grub like crafted sandwiches, organic salads, cold pressed juices and the works. At night, it turns into a buzzing bar with a unique range of craft beers, artisan spirits and one-of-a-kind cocktails.

Treves is the resident all-day restaurant which takes care of your every need – whether you’re look for a comfortable space to spend the day working, or a trendy spot to invite your friends over, Treves is the place to be. It’s a space where you can work or play, eat or drink, socialise or spend some me-time.

When it comes to the rooms, it’s important to point out that they’re highly cost-effective. You definitely get bang for your buck, and then some more. Like the rest of the hotel, the rooms are modern and stylish, with clean furniture and thoughtful design that takes care of your every need, no matter what you’re looking for. While the apartments are relatively small, I guarantee that you will not feel cramped, because they have been intelligently designed to make the most of the space. Another point worth mentioning are the spectacular views – try to get an apartment on one of the higher floors. It’s worth it – trust me.

During your stay at Leman Locke, be sure to take advantage of its unique cultural program, which is designed to bring people together in engaging, creative ways. The series of events is carefully designed to appeal to different passions, interests and hobbies, with no two events being a like, so whoever you are and whatever you enjoy, you’re bound to find something that sparks your interest.

It’s safe to say that Leman Locke is a very different kind of property; one that boasts of unique, authentic experiences and delight at every turn. Whether you’re staying for the weekend or simply stopping by Treves for a coffee, I’d highly recommend making your way there as soon as possible!

Hotel Du Vin, York – Yorkshire Hotel Review and Travel Diary

One would think that staying at manor houses and mansions was only possible in a setting of an Agatha Christie’s book; Mysterious Affair at Styles. But I was in for a breath-taking surprise when I was invited to the Hotel Du Vin York to visit their property that was tucked away in the Mount Area, very close to the city centre of Yorkshire.

We reached the property around 2 p.m.; as soon as I entered the hotel building, it gave me a feeling of an old world charm of high ceilings that is typical of the classical 19th-century architecture and some contemporary soothing decor of leather upholstery. After checking in, we wandered out to the quaint village outlet for shopping and then to the Christmas market to simply absorb all the Christmas cheer.

We came back to our extremely spacious rooms which had sprawling custom made beds, complete with hand-sprung mattresses, soft Egyptian cotton duvets and fluffy pillows that were inviting meyou to roll all over them like a kid simply! But, there was more room to explore in the room.

The room had an open plan tub, big enough to sleep in and comfortable enough to have your meal in. There was an option of a monsoon shower as well, for those of us who do not like to wallow in a bubble bath. To my utter delight, the little toiletries were from the house of Ren, which only use 100% plant and mineral derived actives. After a relaxing bath, I snugged into one of their soft Egyptian cotton bath robes that are as fluffy as cotton candy and if in mood for a quick snack or drink, I could just head over to the mini bar which is stocked with different liquor brands and yummy snacks. The best part is that the room has a unique decor, which makes me look forward to the whole experience so different to the bigger hotel chains where the décor in the rooms is sometimes too impersonal to make one feel relaxed or at home.
Later in the evening, we headed over to their in-house bar for a drink, to relax. For dinner, we headed to their Bistro which had a very earthy warm decor of dark wooden floors, restored fireplaces, paintings and soft lighting making it a perfect setting for a relaxing evening. Now comes my favourite part of food and drinks.
I was very impressed with their selection of wines, and we were recommended a perfect wine to go with your meal. To my surprise, the a-la carte was equally delightful for a vegetarian like me and a non-vegetarian like my husband. My husband ordered some seafood which had combined the taste of some freshly caught fish cooked slowly with some of their homemade mayonnaise, shallot vinegar sauces and condiments. Vegetarians like me did not have to fret because they had fresh green Super food kale salads, Tomato Consommé for starters and baked sweet corn and courgette cakes in the main course. All their food was cooked in a beautiful French home-style cooking enhanced with some traditional British flavours. Coupled with beautiful presentation and perfect wine, the meal was most satisfying for all the senses.
Next day, was beautiful in every aspect.Starting with breakfast which was simply out of the world. I was felt spoilt for choice with a wide range of fresh yummy goodies laid out on the country table that included freshly squeezed juices in cute small bottles, quirky mini jars of natural yoghurt porridges, baked pastries, and homemade granolas. After digging into some continental bits, we ordered the traditional cooked breakfast and a serving of poached eggs and avocado. As they say, breakfast should be fit for a King and it was fit for so many Kings!

We checked out of the hotel and headed out to the city of York to enjoy the rest of the beautiful day that included a visit to the York Minister which is Northern Europe’s largest Gothic Cathedral, a medieval castle that took us back to the Roman and Viking era, the old railway museum and last but not the least some little street shopping that always comes in handy to make us merry with Christmas round the corner.

Even though we stayed only for one night, we were blown away by the old manor charm coupled with modern luxuries and the outstanding service that Du Vin had to offer. If you are looking for a comfort, style and a bit of old school romance head to Du Vin York, I am sure you would not be disappointed.