The Magic of Villa Baulieu

Authentic traveling has become the new cool thing to do, though we think it should become the norm. While there’s a reason the tourist spots are as popular as they are, they don’t always allow you to experience the deep dive into the culture. The Provence of France is surely impressive on its own and a rather trendy vacation spot, consider staying in a family owned home than at any other basic hotel. Yes, we’re recommending you to go stay in a stranger’s home. 

With a similar idea as other short-term home rental platforms, Villa Baulieu needs no third party to entice its guests. Its owners have infused their own personal style into every aspect of the operation. The hotel is a part of the prestigious “Collectors” family of hotels.

This five star family residence sits regally in the heart of Provence, specifically near Pays d’Aix. The estate, a Tuscan villa, boasts eleven impeccably decorated rooms, stunning views of the Alpilles and Saint-Victoire mountains, and easy access to the Luberon region. The Villa Baulieu has seen many decades but never has it let its true age show. The Guenant family maintains and restores the property to allow it to shine with its Mediterranean charm while incorporating just enough modern upgrades. 

During your all-inclusive stay, you’ll experience the French culture in a hands-on, first class kind of way. There are different tiered room options, though none sacrifice on elegance or comfort. All decorations and furniture are dated but alive with the very history they represent. No room is exactly alike; each has its own respective style theme. Room sizes vary with enough space for 1-4 people. You’re sure to sleep well, and, to your stomach’s delight, eat well too!

The onsite hotel features tables served by butlers. Order a 2- or 3-course meal from an unfussy but sophisticated menu. The menu, prepared by 2 French chefs, is available and confirms 48 hours prior to your reservation. If you’re part of a crowd of 10 or more, you can even request a Michelin-starred or Gourmet chef. Talk about gold star hospitality.

While your in-house accommodations are nothing short of spectacular, you also have to consider the other amenities at your disposal. Villa Baulieu fully believes its guests should embrace relaxation. Meander to the reading or music room for some leisure time. Lounge by the pool and refresh your body with a quick dip. Melt into the hands of the masseuse, whose job it is to add tranquility to your day. The grounds are also perfect for a casual stroll or bike ride.

Villa Baulieu encourages you to step outside and embrace the Provence. They can help you set up the perfect wine tourism activities. Wine is very much a mainstay of the area and meant to be enjoyed from vine to glass. The picturesque vineyards offer gorgeous backdrops for some late afternoon sipping. And, if you booked the Prestige room at Villa Baulieu, these tourism features are included; best of all, you’ll be greeted with gourmet gifts, a bottle of wine, and a bag of almonds. Villa Baulieu and all its partners are here to immerse you into the Provence’s culture, and for good reason—it’s amazing!

Hotel Estherea

Consider this your official and formal invitation to the magnificent Hotel Estherea. All that is required from you is a vacation to Amsterdam. You’ll feel like true royalty as you step back in time by passing through the grand entrance. The 17th century building embraces authentic historic Amsterdam with delightful and tasteful modern upgrades. Even more alluring, Estherea has been owned, preserved, and run by the same family for more than an impressive 75 years. Having such experience and longevity, means the services here has been perfected.

There is a history held behind these stonewalls that line the Singel Canal, Amsterdam’s oldest canal. So much so, that the Estherea has been added to the UNESCO’s world heritage list. While upkeep is nothing short of a difficult job, it is done without thought or concern as maintaining the property’s vintage charm is a priority. The very original Estherea only held 12 rooms and has since been developed into 92 rooms and 2 suites. 

Considered a popular boutique hotel option in the area, Estherea welcomes short-and long-term stays. With its prime location right in central Amsterdam, you’re close to everything essential to maximize your vacation or business travels. Most of all the main attractions are a reasonable distance away. Art fanatics can check out the Gogh or Moca museum. Families traveling with children can set them loose in the Artis Zoo. Retail therapy seekers have a series of streets lined with shops and other goodies. History buffs can marvel over a timeless and infamous story of courage at the Anne Frank House. Not to mention, plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars are all walking distance from the hotel.

Though, just taking a spontaneous stroll along and across the river without a plan will lead you to other wonders. The architect is something to behold while the well-trimmed parks are perfect for afternoon tea and biscuits provided complimentary of the Estherea.  Or, perhaps, you’ll stumble across the famed flower market to pick up a bouquet to as a splash of nature to your room.

Speaking of the inviting living accommodations at Estherea, you’ll be amazed at the variety of choices here. Each room unique in its décor with bold printed wallpaper and antique furniture, you’re sure to remember your time here. L’Occitane products, refrigerator, safe, Wi-Fi, and television come standard with any room selections while the size of the rooms, views, and various bathroom amenities depend on your bookings. Estherea also offers “room extras” for a catered touch of your style. Choose a room scent or be greeted by a bottle of Prosecco. Whatever your wishes, the Estherea will sure try to make your dreams come true.

When you’ve finished admiring your eloquently arranged room, meander down to Maria’s Bar. This onsite bar is open exclusively to Estherea guests. Enjoy a cocktail to begin or finish your night and snack on small bites from the menu. Best of all, Maria’s Bar is open 24/7.

So, whenever you fancy a tipple or just a charming spot to escape for a while, Estherea has you covered.

The Bloomsbury Hotel London

If you’re fancying a little London getaway or perhaps traveling on business, The Bloomsbury would love to house you for the duration of your stay. Nestled among the calmingly chaotic heart of London, the hotel sits between Covent Garden, Tottenham Court Road, and Clarkenwell. You might notice the presence of the 1930s neo-Georgian building immediately; Sir Edwin Lutyen, one of the country’s leading architects, is to applaud for the meticulous attention to detail and engaging design.

To match the personality of the structure, The Bloomsbury has been appropriately dressed with bright yet comforting tones and décor to match the original time period. Unravel yourself in a small piece of history and unpack in your spacious accommodations.  Rave over the intricately patterned wallpaper, collapse into the plush duck-down duvets, or work off some jet-lag in the fitness centre. The Bloomsbury has taken care of all the big luxury elements but refused to stop there. All rooms include Temple Spa bathroom amenities, flat screen TV, high-speed Wi Fi across the entire property, and room service. For business travelers or those needing to host an event, theater-style meeting rooms are at your disposal, with reservations of course.

Guests continue to be spoiled on premises with delightful food and drink options. The Coral Room is coloured accordingly and is new to the Central London drinking scene. The vibrant bar draws inspirations from the 1920s and offers a dynamic menu for afternoon and evening tipples. For calming poetic vibes, sink into your chair and sip some tea at the Dalloway Terrace. The secret garden atmosphere is blooming in warmer months and heated during winter for a year-round dining experience. Choose from light breakfast or brunch menus and have a look over the wine and cocktail list. Take a moment to set yourself free among the crowd of literary Bloomsbury. The Bloomsbury Club Bar pays tribute to those that rejected the Victorian ideas of religion to explore their own spiritual meaning. With cocktails created with tarot cards in mind, choose from one of the fourteen to reveal your future.

While The Bloomsbury makes it hard to leave, they do encourage you to get out and explore the Bloomsbury region and the rest of London. The surrounding 18th century neighbourhood is riddled with museums, cafes, bookstores, and other historically-based adventures. With plenty of train stations and other means of public transportation easily accessible, the entirety of London is at your fingertips. Let The Bloomsbury hotel be your guide.

Dinner, by Heston

Deciding this restaurants name came with a bit of research and originality stemming from not only the word but also what they serve. Dinner is best known as a main meal eaten around midday or in the evening that can be formal or casual. Before affordable candles were made available and gaslight was invented, dinner was taken at midday before night blanketed the sky. Depending on an individual’s location and profession, dinner was still up to their discretion and even today dinner might be served midday and onwards. Thus, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal earned its proper and quirky name. Created by Heston Blumenthal himself, Dinner has earned recognition for both its London and Melbourne locations.

Blumenthal is a well-known and respected British celebrity chef for those who are unaware of his reputation. Before embarking on Dinner, Blumenthal became a proprietor for the critically acclaimed The Fat Duck—one of four Great Britain restaurants to earn three Michelin stars. With his rich and successful culinary background, Blumenthal always takes a scientific method to his food and its this fascination with historic gastronomy that lead to the opening of his first restaurant, Dinner, in 2011.

Blumenthal and co-chef Ashley Palmer-Watts drafted a menu whose discoveries and fascinations blend historic culinary approaches with the ever-evolving modern day methodologies. Their research spanned from 14th century cookbooks such as those used by royal chefs to Lewis Carol’s flights of fancy to utilizing food historians to tapping into the world of the British Library. The resulting menu entices and excites diners with an experience unlike any other.

Noting the food needed a compatible dining atmosphere, Blumenthal conceived an interior suggestive of a subtle, elegant portrait. The floor-to-ceiling walls give guests a clear view of the kitchen while the ivory painted walls sport custom-made porcelain wall sconces. The guests also can enjoy uninterrupted views of Hyde Park.

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal has the looks, the reputation, and continuously happy diners; it’s truly the full package deal. Get your reservation now.

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Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park

66 Knightsbridge,
London SW1X 7LA

Phone: +44 (0)20 7201 3833

The Chesterfield, Mayfair

Merging comfort with luxury, The Chesterfield Mayfair London embraces its prime location in Mayfair with its exemplary facilities and offerings to give guests the best experience possible. The Chesterfield is the perfect venue for all occasions big or small.

You won’t regret a stay at The Chesterfield. Choose from 94 deluxe guest rooms and 13 extravagant suites. Each room captures any mood that takes your fancy: bold, whimsical, exotic, elegant, or cozy. The furnishings and decorations are specific to each room leaving each stay a completely different and exciting experience.

Aside from fabulously arranged rooms, the Chesterfield offers some mighty tasty options. Known for their Afternoon Tea, the Chesterfield is a member of the Tea Guild. This unique and prestigious organization represents outlets dedicated to brewing and serving tea to the high standards desired by the United Kingdom Tea Council. Indulge in homemade baked goods and delicious tea. For a more filling meal make your way over to Butler’s Restaurant. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, fine British dining, grand banqueting, Afternoon Tea, and a light pre-theatre menu. Wine lovers will be in awe over the extensive list of vintages. Treat yourself to some drinks at the Terrace Bar for perfect way to unwind after a long day complete with a soothing pianist.

The Chesterfield has location, accommodation, and wonderful cuisine choices so make sure you book your stay!

Address: 35 Charles Street, Mayfair, London, W1J 5EB
Telephone: +44 20 7491 2622
Website

Jumeirah Carlton Tower

One of London’s best hotels, no really Jumeirah Carlton Tower was bestowed five glistening stars, sits like a beacon in the city’s central area. On Sloane Street, the hub of Knightsbridge, Jumeirah Carlton not only offers 216 luxurious guest rooms but also one of London’s most exclusive health clubs, The Peak Health & Spa. Whether you’re staying overnight or having yourself a little pampering session, Jumeirah Carlton is the place to be. Plus, Hyde Park and the city’s finest shopping at Sloane Streets boutiques, Harrods and Harvey Nichols are all within easy walking distance. City life, shopping, and relaxation all contained in one reasonably sized area—what could be better?

Well that’s just it, it does get better. Aside from incredible rooms and prime time location, Jumeirah Carlton Tower also offers guests a 20 meter indoor swimming pool, three restaurants, a golf simulator featuring 30 of the world’s greatest courses, and extensive fitness facilities. Everything seems pretty self-explanatory except the restaurants, so let’s delve into the fine dining options.

Matching the majestic views with healthy foods, The Club Room offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere up on the 9th floor. Order some light meals, nutritious snacks, or a lunch buffet with a fruity cocktail or smoothie while gazing off into the mesmerizing panoramic city view. The all day, all-around Chinoiserie is a tranquil setting for breakfast, a happening spot for afternoon tea, and distinctive venue for nighttime ventures. Drawing in a diverse mix of guests, Chinoiserie is the perfect spot for casual conversation and watching life go by. Earning three AA Rosettes and becoming an iconic restaurant in London, The Rib Room Bar & Restaurant holds onto its 50-year history with a 21st Century flare. Here, you’ll be treated to the best of traditional British cuisine using only fresh, seasonal produce and a choice from a collection of over 450 wines and champagnes.

So really, what more could you ask from a hotel?

Address: On Cadogan Place, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 9PY, UK
Telephone: +44 20 7235 1234
Website

The Capital Hotel, Knightsbridge

Going on forty years strong under the original Levin ownership, the Capital Hotel in Knightsbridge boasts outstanding staff, family heritage, and unwavering loyalty. Given its rich history, the Capital upholds classic British design with modern upgrades here and there. This award winning miniature sized grand hotel possesses all the luxurious advantages of a large establishment yet maintains a warm and intimate atmosphere that allows guests and staff to interact with each other on a personal level.

The Capital has excellent service alongside spectacular location. The wondrous hotel sits elegantly on Basil Street adjacent to the lavish Knightsbridge apartments and just minutes from Knightsbridge Tube Station as well as Harvey Nichols, the Victoria & Albert Museum, Hyde Park, and the designer shops of Sloane Street.

If location isn’t enough, the Capital might be able to entice wine lovers with their very own award winning vineyard, Levin Wines, in the Loire Valley. And, for those who enjoy sweets, they also have a bakery, The London Bakery, which delivers to high-end restaurants and clubs all across London. The Levin’s couldn’t just stick with one hotel, a winery, and a bakery; they also own and operate the Levin Hotel and the Metro Bistro.

So, what we’re saying is, the Levin’s know a thing or two about hosting and can ensure your stay is of the highest quality. From their quaint classic queen room to their spacious two-bedroom suite and all rooms in between, you’ll want to book your stay at the Capital Hotel.

The Capital Hotel is a proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, a unique collection of luxury hotels across the world that have won countless awards for their food, drink, service and hospitality.

Address: 22-24 Basil Street, Knightsbridge, London SW3 1AT
Telephone: 0800 0482 314
Website

Aloft London Excel

If you find yourself at the ExCeL International Convention Center and need a place to lay your head for a night or two, consider staying the conveniently located Aloft London Excel—the only hotel in ExCeL London directly connected to the convention center. Aloft sits next to the Prince Regent DLR station and just minutes from the London City Airport, Canary Wharf, and the O2 Arena.

This select-service hotel offers a sassy and refreshing accommodation alternative for both the super serious business traveler and the laid-back leisure vacationer. Aloft is urban-influenced and effortlessly chic providing guests the perfect blend of relaxation and entertaining amenities. Choose one of three room styles: Aloft Rooms, Urban Rooms, or Savvy Suites. Each room comes with guaranteed comfort and basic living necessities. Guests will find a variety of venues for various times of day. Get your sweat on in the large indoor pool or gym. Enroll your child (aged 2-12) in Camp Aloft to keep them busy and tuckered out. Mosey on down to the Docksider Restaurant or Re:mix Lounge when your tummy starts grumbling. Sip on an adult beverage while listening to some live music. Aloft has it all making leaving the hotel a hard choice, but you’ll want to check out and fully embrace the East London Scene.

Pack up the kids and the family pet and enjoy a getaway at Aloft.

Address: One Eastern Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London, EN, E16 1FR
Telephone: +44 20 3203 0700
Website