Hollywood Hotel-The Hotel of Hollywood

Hotel near Griffith Park, Greek Theater and Hollywood Sign

Short drive to Universal

This four-story hotel offers a convenient location 1 block from the Santa Monica/Vermont Metro station, 3 miles from beautiful Griffith Park, and about 5 miles from Universal Studios Hollywood.

Sauna on every floor

The 1160 Lounge & W.C. Fields Bar features ceiling murals and a marble bar. Every guestroom floor has a sauna. Guests at the Hollywood Hotel fuel up for the day with a complimentary breakfast.

Complimentary Wi-Fi

Guestrooms at this hotel offer a variety of styles and layouts. Each individually furnished room features complimentary wireless Internet access, compact refrigerators, and views of city, courtyard, or the Hollywood Hills.

The Residence Inn by Marriott Beverly Hills

The Residence Inn by Marriott Beverly Hills recently completed a full renovation and redesign of the lobby, meeting space, and all 186 suites. This hidden gem sits just blocks from Rodeo Drive and boasts a boutique-inspired atmosphere that you can afford.

Whether visiting the greater Los Angeles area for vacation or business, the renovations were done with your needs in mind, making this hotel a perfect choice for short and extended stays alike. Guests have the option to begin their day with a workout in the Exercise Room and rejuvenate their muscles in the 20-person whirlpool spa. The ?Great Room? provides a complimentary full hot breakfast buffet every morning and complimentary light fare, sodas, wine and beer in the evenings; Monday through Wednesday.

?We are an all-suite Beverly Hills hotel with kitchens fully equipped with new energy-efficient stainless-steel appliances. The living room areas and bedrooms in each suite are finished with contemporary upscale furniture, a vibrant color scheme with warm woods and finishes along with artwork that highlights Beverly Hills and Hollywood,? said Michael D?Amodio, Area General Manager Residence Inn by Marriott Beverly Hills.

If you are meeting friends or colleagues, Marriott?s ?Great Room? lobby design is just for you. The open room provides ample seating where connecting to the property-wide complimentary Wi-Fi can help you share important work documents or connect with family and friends at home.

For more information about the Residence Inn by Marriott Beverly Hills, please visit the hotel?s website at http://www.beverlyhillsresidenceinn.com.

LF HOTEL REVIEW & VIDEO

It was a cool Thursday evening in Antigua Guatemala, and I was lounging in a four-poster bed covered with 600-thread-count Egyptian cotton and hand-woven Guatemalan fabrics. Gentle flames crackled in the fireplace as I fell gently into a sound sleep, the silence so complete that the only artificial sound I could hear was the ticking of my portable alarm clock.
That's how I wrapped up my glorious four-night visit to Posada del Angel, a seven-room luxury hotel with style and service that's satisfied the presidents of the United States (Bill Clinton), El Salvador (Francisco Flores) and Guatemala (Alvaro Arzu), as well as former Canadian prime minister Pierre Trudeau and a few celebrities who the staff are too discreet to mention.
Posada del Angel is far from the largest hotel in this historic tourism destination, and it's not the only one that offers luxury. So what attracts these well-known guests? Privacy, service and amenities, apparently. The hotel's small size ensures that the each guest is well attended to (and also makes it possible to buy out the entire hotel for a few days, if you so desire).
Posada del Angel expertly combines rustic, Colonial elements with upscale luxury. Interestingly, while the place feels like a historic landmark, it's actually a rather new construction, built by a Texan named Mary Sue Morris some 16 years ago. Her dream was to create a comfortable, luxurious home-away-from-home for travelers, with an ambiance that blends with the city's historic feel.
Morris passed away in 2006, but the two entrepreneurs who bought the property — Ricardo Balzaretti and Enrique Urruela —have aimed to keep the same approach to hospitality. They've even named one of the larger suites after her, and contribute regularly to Becas Mary Sue, a non-profit organization that helps fund education for local children.
Each room here has a name rather than a number, and each is different in terms of layout and decor. But they are consistently beautiful and peaceful, accessed by giant skeleton-like keys and untroubled by telephones. Complimentary wireless Internet access throughout the property (as well as a computer for guest use) assures that you'll stay in touch with anyone you need to, so who needs a phone anyway?
Posada del Angel is a few big blocks away from Antigua Guatemala's Parque Central, the main square — an easy walk during the daytime, but further away than some hotels, which probably helps to make it attractive for seclusion-seeking celebrities. Room rates include a tasty complete breakfast, cooked to order, which is good for providing energy for a day of exploring the city.
I have to admit, I found myself drawn back to the hotel during the day. It was hard to resist the tranquility of the small, open-air living room set next to a narrow lap pool in the central courtyard. And the peaceful view of the city and the surrounding mountains from the rooftop terrace. And the comfort of my very own room. I found myself going to sleep early, waking up early, touring around the city, then coming back to enjoy the relaxed ambiance of the hotel itself. Posada del Angel is the kind of place that you'll want time to savor.

(Please be sure to check out the VIDEO REPORT at the end of this post!)

RATES: $175 and up
Posada del Angel, 4a Avenida Sur #24A; tel. +502-7832-0260 or in the USA +305-677-2382; www.posadadelangel.com

Sleek Island Style at San Juan Marriott in Puerto Rico

Do you like to be the center of attention, or at least, in a place that’s the center of attention? Let the newly renovated Red Coral Lounge at the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino be your excuse to get out of the cold this winter, and on a plane to Puerto Rico.
The lobby lounge is the focal point of the hotel, right in the center of its lobby. It’s a place where you can enjoy live local music with a cocktail, or relax in a corner and have a private conversation. The rich, earth tones and wood finishes are highlighted with vibrant colors and metal accents that keep the lounge at the center of attention. Even the lobby artwork, created by renowned local artists, is part of the new look.
But the hotel isn’t just the Red Coral Lounge. Once you’ve spent your time there, you can enjoy meals in the La Vista Latin Grill & Bar or Ristorante Tuscany & Wine Bar. Prefer dining by the beach? Pick the La Isla Beach Bar and Grill for when you’re lounging at the pool or getting some sun on the beach. Ready to try your luck? Head into the casino to see if you can go home with some winnings.
Even your room at the San Juan Marriott is a place you want to be—and with the San Dollar package, you can get your fourth night for free. The package also includes free daily breakfast for two at La Vista Restaurant, and is good through April 30, 2012.
Now, what’s the reason to stay at home in the cold this winter

2 06 /09 /Sep /2011 07:04 Challenge USA - Colorado - Hôtel Stanley

COLORADO
 

L'état doit son nom aux explorateurs espagnols qui nommèrent la rivière locale : Rio Colorado, à cause de la couleur de ses eaux, charriant des poussière de grès rouge, très présent sur le territoire. A l'est, de hautes plaines puis les Montagnes Rocheuses, qui descendent en un vaste plateau, aboutissant à l'ouest sur un bassin aride. Le climat s'y calque : montagnard à l'est avec des hivers froids et d'importantes précipitations, beaucoup plus chaud et sec à l'ouest. La capitale du COLORADO est Denver.
 
Et mon sujet d'aujourd'hui est le Stanley Hotel, qui inspira The shining à Stephen King lors d'un séjour... étrange ! 
 

 

 
L'hôtel Stanley se trouve à Estes Park, dans les Rocheuses. Construit par Freelan O. Stanley, il ouvre en 1909, offrant 138 chambres de luxe, avec une magnifique vue sur les montagnes, à une clientèle fastueuse.
 
Stanley, inventeur et homme d'affaires, souffrait de tuberculose et vint séjourner dans cet endroit sur les conseils de son médecin. Lui et son épouse, logés dans un modeste refuge, tombent amoureux de la région. La santé de Stanley s'améliore considérablement. Il décide donc d'investir et de bâtir un bel hôtel, afin que d'autres puissent bénéficier de la beauté de ce lieu et de la qualité de son air. La construction débute en 1907, dans un style néo-géorgien, à la mode en ce début de siècle. Confortable (pour l'époque), l'hôtel a l'eau courante, l'électricité, le téléphone... mais pas de chauffage car il est prévu de l'ouvrir uniquement l'été.  
   
 
Et puis bien des années plus tard, la légende s'installe... l'hôtel serait hanté ! De nombreuses personnes affirment avoir entendu le piano jouer dans la salle de bal, ou les rumeurs d'une grande fête... mais quand on arrive, la salle est vide. Les employés pensent que le fantôme qui hante les lieux est celui de l'épouse de Stanley, qui était une pianiste émérite. D'autres visiteurs prétendent avoir vu des fantômes dans les chambres, notamment un homme qui se cache dans le placard dès qu'on ouvre la porte. Le placard s'avère être vide bien sûr lorsqu'on ose aller y jeter un coup d'oeil !
   
Une émission de télévision, Ghost Hunters, spécialisée dans les phénomènes paranormaux, est venue enquêter. Ils ont pu donner une explication rationnelle à certaines manifestations, mais n'ont pas trouvé de solution pour tout ce qui se passe dans la salle de bal. Ils affirment par ailleurs avoir bien décelé la présence de fantômes : ils ont vu des gens dans les corridors, qui partaient se cacher, ils ont entendu des enfants courir et jouer devant eux, vu un lit s'élever dans les airs, des portes s'ouvrir, un miroir se briser...
 

      

 
D'autres sociétés, très sérieuses, dont certaines mandatées par le gouvernement, sont venues examiner les lieux. Mêmes conclusions : des choses explicables... et d'autres non.
   
Et Stephen King a donc séjourné là, avec sa femme, alors que l'hôtel était quasiment vide, à la fin de l'été. Evidemment, cela lui a donné quelques idées !
 
Une série télé, dérivée du roman, a été tournée là, mais le film Shining, lui, a été shooté - désolée de casser le mythe - à Timberline Lodge, dans l'Oregon :
     

Caesars Hotel

L'hotel ou y a tous les magasins de nos reves : Gucci, Louis Vitton, Dolce Gabbana... du coup avec Channing on les a tous fait mais vraiment juste pour regarder...
Et l'hotel ou il y a aussi la fontaine de Trevis !

The Hotel Opening London UK

Where being green dosen’t mean you have to compromise on style, luxury or comfort

Rafayel on the Left Bank, on Battersea’s new bohemian Left Bank, is set to be one of the world’s first ‘green’ hotels. Officially opening in December 2009, this 5-star hotel is part of the pioneering Falcon Wharf Development, and a blueprint for future hotels.

Rafayel is the first of a dynamic concept headed by developer Mr Ike Latif, who aims to create a branded product that embraces technological advances yet is ecologically aware.

Showcasing the latest technological advances in LED lightings, air-conditioning and VDA efficiencies, Rafayel will minimise our impact on the environment by reducing each guest’s carbon footprint dramatically. The average London guest notches up a colossal carbon footprint of 70kg per night; at Rafayel it will be reduced to a manageable 17kg. A complete LED hotel, Rafayel will reduce overall electrical costs by a staggering 80% too: a glimpse into the future for hotels and homes alike.

Rafayel’s interior design is sleek and modern, yet retains a warm charm through its bespoke furnishings. The hotel has a myriad of state of the art facilities, including: 65 guestrooms all with state of the art technology, 15 apartments, 2 restaurants with indoor and outdoor dining, bar, lounge, spa with gym and pool, meeting room, conference hall to accommodate 150, coffee shop, brasserie, and to top it all, a florist. The hotel’s curved blocks create stunning 360° views of London from the roof terrace. Many rooms enjoy expansive views over the river and city skyline, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, flooding them with natural daylight.

The waterfront restaurant, Banyan on Thames, with its crystal bar overlooking the river, will offer inspired cooking: its distinctive Indo-Japanese roots fuse with Chinese and Indian spices and simple Italian ingredients, all presented in a refined French style. Rafayel’s restaurants will offer both formal and casual dining, breakfast, morning brunches, and traditional afternoon tea, a first in the Battersea area.

The Rafayel Wa Michi Wellbeing spa will be run by award-winning Content alongside Wellworld Spas. Combining holistic health and beauty treatments, spa clients will be free to choose from locally sourced beauty brands as well as a selection of the world’s finest organic brands. Guest rooms in the hotel will be furnished with natural Content own brand body products.

The hotel’s developer Mr Ike Latif aims high at low emissions, but believes - ‘‘there is no need to return to Stone Age living. Being “green” should be our overall goal, but without compromising on the luxury that the modern age offers us’’. He continues: ‘‘The concept of the hotel on the Capital’s new Left Bank in the culturally prosperous environ of a bustling Battersea is a key step forward in formalizing the intellectual renaissance of Battersea, not unlike the discovery and patronage of the Seine’s Rive Gauche by intellectual greats like Sartre, de Beauvoir, Zola, Camus or Hemingway and Fitzgerald’’

At Rafayel on the Left Bank Mr Ike Latif hopes to offer guests exceptional value for a luxurious stay in a conscience-free oasis. The story doesn't say whether Internation travellers will find the Battersea area attractive enough compared to the West End.

The Hotel Opening (1) - W Barcelona

This is a new weekly section of Hotel Blogs where we will feature interesting and innovative new hotel openings all around the world. This will be based on releases we receive but also on the amount of pictures/videos available to preview the hotel. Pictures and videos are worth much more than 1000 words on a hotel description.So I couldn't imagine a better way to start this new serie of posts witht the W hotel opening in Barcelona on the 1st October.
I have checked their website and I could find a nightly rate on a Friday night at €283.55 (taxes included).
You can already book the hotel on Expedia or Booking but don't think you will get a better deal. There is rate parity (for now) with their website and these two online travel agents.
The hotel has built their Facebook page with more than 200 fans already. People talk about the hotel opening on Twitter and of course the hotel has their own Twitter account @W_BARCELONA.
Apparently this new opening in the luxury cool hip market will probably going to hurt established hotels like Hotel Arts. And you can see why on Google (see the sponsored link and the search)...cheeky marketing techniques!

May opening announced for Royal Garden hotel’s new restaurant

Hotel News,  Openings, Restaurants

May opening announced for Royal Garden hotel’s new restauran

London's Royal Garden hotel is to open its new Park Terrace restaurant and bar in May.
Steve Munkley, who has worked with the hotel for the past nine years, is executive chef, while Jorge Canela will be restaurant and bar manager. Canela has worked at the Royal Garden for the past four years.
The new restaurant will be on the ground floor of the Royal Garden - London's largest independent five-star hotel - offering views of Kensington Palace Gardens.
It is set to offer three areas: a restaurant serving à la carte British cuisine, with a strong focus on locally-sourced ingredients; a lounge area offering a more informal dining option; and a bar, visible from the hotel lobby.
The menu will include starters such as Cromer Crab Ravioli, Samphire and Shellfish Bisque and Organic Beef Fillet Carpaccio. Meanwhile the main courses include Lavender and Herb Crusted Rump of Suffolk Organic Lamb and Pan Roasted Cornish Halibut.
Lunch will be priced at £15 for two and £19.50 for three courses, while dinner will be priced at £26 for two courses and £31 for three courses.
Meanwhile, the lounge will offer Beer Battered Bristol Channel Cod, Spiced Potato Wedges and Pea Purée or Potato and Herb Gnocchi, Roasted Squash and Spicy Sausage with Tomato Salad. Traditional afternoon tea will also be available.
And the bar, headed up by Vilmos Csehi will offer classic cocktails with contemporary British highlights such as the Kensington Martini.
The restaurant will also offer a private dining room with space for up to 36 guests. Bespoke menus will be available in consultation with Steve Munkley, starting from £31.00 per person.
Park Terrace's opening follows the launch in September 2008 of the Min Jiang restaurant on the 10th floor of the hotel, also with Munkley as executive chef.

Are you one of the 10 million that suffer from Hay Fever?

Soma Reception

From the exclusive range of ES essential oils comes a specialized blend of of Eucalyptus, blue gum, Lavender, Peppermint, and Niaouli, that relieve and sooth your symptoms such as sneezing, running eyes, and any irritation that comes along with hay fever.  Aromatherapy uses the very essence of plants and herbs.  Many life enhancing and healing powers of plants known to us for centuries are extracted in the form of concentrated oils, otherwise known as essential oils.
Created by Elizabeth Sompala, noted beauty therapists to aristocracy and royalty from all corners of the globe, the hay fever essential oil was created for her son, who during his university exams suffered greatly from hay fever, which ultimately affected his course work.  Whether student, professional, or not, the symptoms of hay fever ultimately affect our work and home life.  Whether your symptoms are mild or extreme, the ES Hayfever Formula can offer relief in any situation.
Certified by health and safety officials acting in Great Britain, the ES range is all natural and extremely affective.  Stop by The Soma Centre and pick up your Hayfever Formula today at only £12.95.  We offer the entire range of ES products, including other essential oils targeted to relieve symptoms of congestion, anxiety, stress, insomnia, and drowsiness to name a few.
Methods of Use
1. Put a drop on a tissue as required, this can be used throughout the day.   When working it may be possible to tuck the tissue in a shirt pocket to allow you to inhale it as you work.  The tissue can also be placed neat a tissue as you sleep.
2. Can be used in an Aromatherapy Diffuser Fan.  Simply add 5 to 10 drops onto the cotton pad inside the drawer and switch on.
3. Place 2 to 5 drops of the formula in the bath after running the water.  Stir the water well before getting into the bath.  Relax in the bath for about 20 minutes whilst enjoying the beneficial aromas.
4. Can be added to a carrier oil and used for massages, which can be extremely beneficial.
The following precautions should be taken when using these products:
Not to be used if you suffer from epilepsy or pregnancy. Not to be used on children under 12Avoid contact on sensitive areas such as eyes. These oils are only for external use. Do not use neat on the skin. Do not exceed the stated dosage Keep out of reach of children. Oils should be kept in a cool dark area for storage
Tags: 5 star hotel in london, and Niaouli, blue gum, Customer Service, Eucalyptus, hay fever treatments, Hayfever, Lavender, London hotels, Peppermint, Royal garden Hotel, Royal Garden Hotel in London, Soma Centre

CALENDAR GIRL PRAISES ROYAL GARDEN

 

 

Anglea Baker, founder member of the Calendar Girls

Following the sad loss of her husband John to Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in February 1998, Angela Baker and the couple’s many friends in the close-knit village of Cracoe decided to do something positive by which to remember John and help other cancer sufferers.
Angela and her friends at the Women’s Institute quickly settled on the idea of a charity calendar, in the style of the famously revealing Pirelli calendars – an idea that, poignantly, had been mentioned on several occasions before John’s death and one which he never thought the WI would actually get round to.
With plenty of determination and the support of local businesses and individuals, finances for the print of 3,000 copies were raised and the calendar -despite some last-minute nerves -was produced.
Much to the surprise of everyone, it was a huge hit. The original print run soon disappeared, and what had begun as a tragic tale became both an uplifting and remarkable one. Such was the appeal of this inspiring story that director Nigel Cole decided to turn it into a film, starring Helen Mirren and Julie Walters. Naturally, the finished product was a hit at the box office.
To date, the Calendar Girls have raised over £3million for Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research and are now the subject of Tim Firth’s Calendar Girls stage show which has now seen over 100 sell-out weeks across the country, and has become the most successful play to ever tour the UK.

The Calendar Girls

When did you first stay at the Royal Garden Hotel?
It was 2003. We were down in London for the premiere of Calendar Girls at the Odeon in Leicester Square.
What were your first impressions of the hotel?
I thought it was an amazing place. Everybody is just so friendly, so polite, so kind. The service you get is wonderful.
And, for you, service is the most important thing at a 5-star hotel?
Yes, absolutely. When you arrive in reception they always recognise you, so the welcome feels personal and genuine. That attention to detail, right from the start of your stay, makes you feel special.
How would you describe the style of service at the Royal Garden?
The staff are attentive, but they’re not in your face all the time. For me, it’s important that there’s a balance and I think the staff at the hotel understand this.
How often do you visit the hotel these days?
Whenever me and the other Calendar Girls have a Leukaemia & Lymphoma event at the Royal Albert Hall we go there. Which makes things incredibly convenient, of course. We also often have teas in the Park Terrace Restaurant because we offer them as raffle prizes at a lot of the fundraising events we run. It’s just like going home really – I know a lot of the staff, and quite a few of the waiters and waitresses recognise me.

You mentioned the afternoon tea events in the Park Terrace. How else has the hotel supported your work?
Providing us with somewhere to stay and a place to hold events has been great, and chef Steve Munkley organised a great event where he cooked a lot of our recipes. On top of this, the hotel has also been actively involved in fundraising itself, asking guests to donate a pound at the end of their stay, donating money from afternoon teas and organising staff events for Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research’s 50th Anniversary.
And presumably you’ve attended a few big events at the hotel?
Yes, I’ve had some great nights at the Royal Garden. The conference and banqueting facilities are brilliant for after-show parties. They look fantastic.
How has the hotel changed in the time you’ve been visiting?
I guess the most obvious change is the recent refurbishment work. I was there a few times while it was going on, and – to be honest – it was so organised and calm that I didn’t really notice it too much. I think the finished result is great though, even better than before.
How much longer do you think you’ll be coming back to the Royal Garden in your capacity as a calendar girl?
As long as we’re still enjoying the work, I guess. Everything’s got a shelf life and we’re probably getting a bit old for this! I’m sure we’ll all continue to do our bit in whatever way necessary. As long as we can still stay at the Royal Garden Hotel when we’ve finished, of course!

Tags: 5 star hotel in london, Angela Baker, Calendar Girls, Customer Service, leukaemia & lymphoma, London hotels, palace suite, royal albert hall, Royal garden Hotel, Royal Garden Hotel in London, steve

TAKE THE GARDEN ROUTE THIS SUMMER

Friday, May 13th, 2011

Chelsea Flower Show

London may be one of the world’s busiest cities, but amidst the hustle and bustle are a number of fantastic green spaces in which to relax, unwind, and enjoy some truly spectacular flora. From the royal parks to botanical gardens, there is something for everyone, whether you’re a keen botanist or just want to sunbathe in the sun.
The end of this month, will see the annual staging of the Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower. The four-day event is a Mecca for flower enthusiasts and landscape gardeners, with thousands flocking to the Royal Hospital Chelsea to see hundreds of displays and gardens competing for the coveted medals. For traditional flower arrangements to thoroughly futuristic gardens, there is something to suit every taste and plenty to fire the imagination.
Situated just a short tube or bus journey from Chelsea, The Royal Garden Hotel is the perfect accommodation option for anyone coming to the Chelsea Flower Show. Of course, we also have two of London’s finest green spaces on our doorstep. Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park both offer ample opportunity for relaxation and recreation – so much so, in fact, that you might even forget you’re in the middle of a metropolis.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Also in London are the popular Royal Botanical Gardens in Kew. Easily accessible by train from central London, Kew is arguably the world’s most famous garden. Visitors can explore glasshouses, landscapes and 250 years of history at their leisure or enjoy the benefits of a guided tour. For those a little more adventurous, there is also the opportunity to explore the treetops and rainforest within this stunning oasis. With nearby Richmond offering a range of excellent pubs and restaurants, Kew is a great part of the world to while away a lazy summer’s day.
Of course, if you prefer your exercise a little more vigorous, London’s Parks are a great place to run, cycle and rollerblade. With miles and miles of parkland in central London, the Royal Parks Foundation even stages a half marathon every year. This year’s event is on Sunday 9 October, so if you fancy testing your legs you’ve got all summer to get in shape. The race starts and finishes in Hyde Park, which – of course – is just a short hobble from the Royal Garden Hotel

CONCIERGE TOP TIPS FOR LONDON

Trooping the Colour

We’ve had some unbelievable weather over the last few weeks, although if truth be told, we could do with a little bit of rain ahead of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show that begins on May 24^th.  Britain’s biggest and most celebrated horticultural show will see thousands of visitors over the course of four days, and – unsurprisingly – tickets are nearly sold out. Please come and speak to me and my team if you’re hoping to secure tickets for this fantastic event.
If you haven’t been able to get down to the coast during the mini heatwave we’ve been having, you might also be interested in ‘Southend on the Southbank’. Throughout May city dwellers can enjoy the very best of the popular seaside resort on the banks of Thames. A beach for children, Punch & Judy acts, a funfair and traditional fish and chips are just some of the attractions on this ‘pop-up’ beach. Guaranteed great fun for all the family!
For something a little more traditional, 11 June sees Trooping the Colour at Horse Guards Parade. This annual custom marks the Queen’s Official birthday and is a spectacular display of pageantry that remains one of the key Royal events of the year.
Another Royal event that attracts from all over the country, and indeed the world is Royal Ascot. Britain’s most popular race meeting takes place on 14-18 June and remains a must for those who want to see and been seen in high society, royal watchers and, of course, horse-racing enthusiasts. A great excuse to dress your best (and maybe even win a few quid!), this is a great day of sociailsing and sport.

Wimbeldon 20th June - 3rd July

Talking of which, it’s not too long before the strawberries and cream will be coming out in SW19. Wimbledon is always a highlight of the sporting summer, and since 2009 the presence of a roof on centre court has meant less Cliff Richard and plenty more top-quality tennis. As always, tickets are incredibly tough to come by, so get in touch with Concierge if you need help organising your outing.

Head Concierge Robert Shorter

Rob Shorter’s Story
Hidden London uncovered…
This week, I thought I’d put a few interesting London facts together. If you’re wandering through the city in the next few weeks, why not check out some of these locations?
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Pub in Fleet Street, was the first new building to open in London after the Great Fire in 1666.
St Mary Abbots Church in Kensingtonhas, at 278 feet, the tallest church spire in London. The Gothic building was designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott and was completed in 1872.
The oldest fig tree in Britain stands in Lambeth Palace garden. It was planted by Cardinal Pole in the 16^th Century.
TheEgyptian sculpture above the door of Sotheby’s Auction House in Mayfair is the oldest man-made object in London.The little black artefact is carved from igneous rock, and some believe it to be more than 5,000 years old.
For more up to date information on the Royal Garden Hotel and events in London please follow us on Twitter and become a fan of us on Facebook

SPRING SPECIALS AT SOMA

Treatments at the Soma Centre

Conveniently located in the basement of the Royal Garden Hotel, the Soma Centre offers customers (both hotel guests and local residents) a combination of complementary therapies and exercise classes.
The perfect solution to today’s hectic lifestyle, Soma is more luxurious than a private health club and offers a personal service, focusing on health-related fitness rather than traditional routines that work on body image through muscle building.
Incorporating Yoga, Pilates, personal training and complementary therapies into its fitness programmes, Soma encourages the development of a healthy mind as well as a healthy body.
The brainchild and passion of fitness guru Carolan Brown, former personal trainer to Diana Princess of Wales, the Soma Centre represents a unique concept: no membership or joining fee – simply pay-as-you-go as often or as little as you want.

Enjoy a relaxing massage this Spring...

To give you even better value for money this spring, the Soma Centre is currently offering some great rates on two very special treatments:
Spring Detox Clean – £75 per session (reduced from £92)
Specifically targeting the lower body and upper arms, this localised wrap tackles stubborn water weight, swelling and bloating. The treatment can also be modified to focus on cellulite and draining the fluid from the fat cells around the hips, stomach and thighs.
Royal Treatment – £115 per session
In commemoration of the recent Royal Wedding, the Soma Centre is offering this special celebratory package. As well as a steam or sauna session, the treatment includes a Soma Specialised Facial and eyebrow shape, a 30-minute back massage, manicure and plenty of relaxation.
With summer just round the corner, the Soma Centre is currently working on a Complete Summer Package, which will offer everything you need to get in shape for the sun-soaked getaway.

 

OPEN ALL HOURS

 

Bertie’s Bar manager Luis Cobas talks about the special fizz of the Royal Garden.
If you work in a hotel bar you have to be enthusiastic – it’s not a job you can do if you’re not willing to work hard – and I’d say that my staff at Bertie’s are amongst the most enthusiastic in London. These days most hotel bars will close at 1 or 2 in the morning, but you’ll often  find me still making cocktails at 4am. It would be easy for me to say “Let’s close the bar” when it starts to get a little quiet, but we know that there’s always a good chance that we could get some guests wanting a drink in the early hours.
One of the main reasons for this is that the Royal Garden has always attracted a lot of guests from the entertainment world. There’ll often be a band coming back from a gig at midnight, maybe a bit later, and – like most musicians – they usually want more than one drink! It’s something that we’ve done for a long-time and something that all our guests, not just the rock stars, appreciate. Besides, hard work is not a problem for me – two days with no sleep is easy!
It’s not just our opening hours that set us apart from other hotel bars. Part of what makes Bertie’s so special is the friendly welcome we like to give guests and this has made us one of the most popular bars on High Street Kensington. Having worked at the hotel for nearly 40 years now, I’ve spoken to so many guests and one of the things they like so much about coming here is the relaxed atmosphere we provide. A friendly face, a good memory for the customer’s drink of choice or a friendly chat whilst you’re mixing a cocktail really make a difference and the management encourage us to make sure this sort of service is offered to everyone.

High Street Kensington by night

Perhaps the most rewarding element of my job is making sure that all my staff are able to achieve these standards of service. I might get someone to train who can’t speak more than a few words of English, but given the right training it’s not long before they’re better than me! It’s very rewarding to see them succeed and put a smile on our customers’ faces. Hotel bars have to be welcoming places.
Of course, as well as service, a good barman has to know everything there is to know about the drinks behind his bar – when it comes to cocktail making you don’t want to be checking a recipe every five minutes! Of course we offer every drink imaginable (and plenty that people make up on the spot!) so we’re can’t claim to know every drink off by heart, but most of the time people don’t go for anything too crazy.

We are currently running a half-price champagne offer

One of the most popular drinks for our customers is a glass of champagne. We currently have a half-priced offer on Canard Duchêne, which has proved popular with a lot of city workers looking for a bar on High Street Kensington as well as in-house guests and is a great way to start the evening in style. As for me, I’m more of a Bloody Mary fan, although my

 

In the wake of the current political issues surrounding Israel (whose embassy is adjacent to the hotel) and middle east politics, our Diplomatic Consultant, Charles de Chassiron, explains his role at the Royal Garden and how the hotel caters for high-profile diplomats and visitors.

The role of Diplomatic Consultant at a London hotel is something that first appeared in the 1980s. There are four or five other hotels in London who employ someone in a similar position, but not all 5-star hotels have someone doing a job like mine.
I’m not a public member of the hotel staff, I’m a part time consultant (as my job title suggests!), but I work closely with a lot of my colleagues – particularly those in the sales, banqueting and guest relations departments – to help them cater appropriately for the international diplomatic visitors we welcome frequently to the hotel.
Having worked in the FCO (British Foreign & Commonwealth Office) for 35 years, the main focus of my job is to ensure that the needs and expectations of high-profile diplomatic guests are understood and any special requirements are seen to.
Of course, there are a lot of diplomatic missions in London – around 180 embassies and 30 international organisations – with Kensington Palace Gardens itself in the heart of ‘embassy land’. We have a close relationship with many of these missions, and our proximity makes us the perfect choice for guests here on diplomatic and international business.

President Sarkozy meeting Former PM Gordon Brown in 2008

In 2008, for instance, President Sarkozy was here on a State Visit and we were able to cater for a 90-strong journalistic corps from France. Obviously, being just up the road from their ambassador’s residence was very convenient for them. The same applied in 2009, when President Medvedev of Russia stayed while attending the G20 summit.
In addition to this convenience factor, my former colleagues in Protocol department of the FCO will recommend a hotel that employs somebody in my position – like the Royal Garden Hotel – because they like to use somewhere that really understands the diplomatic requirements of different guests. Of course, I also know a lot of the staff at the missions and ambassadors themselves, which helps to build relations between particular missions and the Royal Garden Hotel.
In an average week, I’m in and around the hotel for three days, but I’ll be on hand at special events or when a particularly high profile guest is arriving. A couple of weeks ago, we hosted two national days in our state-of-the-art Palace Suite – one for Cameroon and one for Senegal who were celebrating 50 years of independence.

The Palace suite has hosted many recent national days

It helps for me to be on hand for certain events such as this. Of course, the vast majority of my colleagues, especially in guest relations are very good at what they do, but with so many different nationalities and cultures coming to the hotel, sometimes they just need that extra bit of guidance or advice.
When it comes to welcoming diplomatic guests, what makes a good hotel is being aware of who visitors are, what they need and – above all – levels of service. In this respect it is no different from the demands of every guest who come through the doors at the Royal Garden Hotel, even if the reasons for or the practicalities of their stay are rather different!

Serving up the perfect afternoon tea

Afternoon Tea in the Park Terrace Lounge

Inspired by the championships, the team in the Park Terrace has created a special ‘Wimbledon Afternoon Tea’ with cakes named after the famous faces and features including Lemon McEnroe, Sharapavlova and Roddick’s Roulade.
The perfect precursor to an evening watching Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal or our very own Andy Murray, the Wimbledon Afternoon Tea can be enjoyed from 20 June to 3 July.
Here at the Royal Garden Hotel our Afternoon Tea has been recognised by the Tea Guild as meeting an exceptionally high standard and complying with afternoon tea etiquette. Tea and in particular Afternoon Tea has grown in popularity in recent years and has become a must do when visiting London.
The rise of Afternoon Tea stems back to Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford who complained of ‘having that sinking feeling’ during the late afternoon. The solution was a pot of tea and a light snack, taken privately during the afternoon; and this concept has evolved in to a famous British tradition.

Enjoying Afternoon Tea in the Lounge

At the Royal Garden Hotel, afternoon tea is served in the relaxed Park Terrace lounge, overlooking Kensington Gardens. It is the perfect setting to sit and unwind after a hard days shopping or as a special treat.
Afternoon Tea is served between 14.00 and 17.30 in the lounge and booking is essential. Give our reservation team a call on 0207 361 1999 to reserve your table!

HOW TO… Open a bottle of champagne

Opening a bottle of Champagne

Every bottle of champagne or sparkling wine (with a few low-end exceptions) has foil wrapped around the outside of the cage. In the old days, some foil was lead-lined to keep mice from eating into the cork of wine, but in modern times you just remove this foil. Click here to watch the video
Here’s our simple guide on what to do next:
1. Once you’ve removed the foil, keep the cork pointed in a safe direction, and keep one thumb on it just in case. Corks can loosen over time, so even if you think you’re not ready to pop the cork yet, the bottle may have a different idea!
2. Undo the wire cage. This cage ensures that the cork doesn’t pop out of the bottle until you are ready. Loosen it gently, being sure to keep a thumb on the cork to prevent unexpected surprises.
3. The cage is off. Hold the cork in one hand (usually under a towel, if you have one), and the base of the bottle in the other. Turn the Bottle, not the cork, slowly and gently. You want the cork to ease off with a soft “whoof”, not with a pop.
4. The cork has just eased off. You have managed to save the bubbles and air from being lost (never mind the Champagne!) and should now quickly pour it out. Slide the towel around to the neck of the bottle for pouring.
5. You can now pour, with or without the towel. If you become experienced at this, you’ll find a quick turn of the bottle when you’re done pouring each glass will catch the drops on the edge of the lip. Pour down the sides of the glasses to minimise head and therefore bubble waste.
6. The glasses are poured! Raise them, and give a toast to celebrate!
HALF PRICE CHAMPAGNE!
Right now in Bertie’s Bar you can enjoy a bottle of Canard Duchêne Champagne for only £27.50 with our Half Price Champagne offer.
Simply quote ‘Half Price Champagne Offer’ when you arrive.
Whether you working in London, shopping for a new wardrobe or sightseeing in London, there can be no better way of ending your day. Or why not begin your evening in style for a fraction of the price.
This incredible offer is available Monday to Saturday from 5.00pm-8.00pm. Or alternatively you can enjoy it by the glass for only £5.50. This exclusive promotion is available for parties of up to 6 people and includes a maximum of 2 bottles per order. Please note this offer may also be subject to availability.

HOW TO… Decant a bottle of wine

Massimo De Venuto Decanting Red Wine

There are three reasons why decanting wine can be a good idea. Older red wines, especially vintage wines, can have sediment; decanting aerates the wine; and – of course – the decanter adds an elegant touch when serving the wine. Watch our How To video here
Here’s our simple guide to decanting your wine:
1. A couple of days before you plan to open the bottle, stand it upright.
2. Come serving day, assemble what you’ll need: a wide-mouthed decanter or elegant pitcher, a candle, and a corkscrew.
3. Carefully remove the foil capsule, shaking the bottle as little as possible.
4. Uncork the bottle.
5. Light the candle.
6. Hold the bottle so you can see the candle flame through the bottle’s shoulder, where it flares out under the neck.
7. Tilt the bottle, and gently pour the wine into the decanter. You want a thin, steady stream with no gurgling.
8. Watch the flame through the wine in the bottle as you pour.
9. If there is sediment, you will see it as a thin dark stream moving up the inside of the bottle.
10. Continue pouring slowly and steadily until the sediment climbs into the neck of the bottle and then stop.
TOP TIPS
Slow and steady is the key. With practice you’ll be able to pour all but the last half-inch of wine before the sediment reaches the mouth of the bottle. Be careful not to hold the bottle directly over the candle flame, or soot will blacken it and you won’t see the sediment.
Of course, if you’d rather leave it to us, there is a wonderful selection of wines available in our two restaurants, Bertie’s Bar and via room service.
And right now at the Park Terrace, we’re offering the perfect accompaniment to your favourite glass of wine – our fantastically priced Lunch de jour
Priced at £15.50 for just two courses and £20 for three courses, this exquisite menu offers exceptional value for money.
Let us spoil you with freshly sourced seasonal produce, a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, 5* service and views onto Kensington Gardens.

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STAFF LAUDED FOR LONG SERVICE

Friday, June 3rd, 2011

Staff Enjoying the Long Sevice Awards

At a special awards ceremony, 20 employees were honoured for five years or more at the hotel, while a further 25 were commended for 15 years (and, in some cases, considerably more) of loyal service.
Amongst the long-serving staff were General Manager Graham Bamford and Bertie’s Bar Manager Luis Cobas, who has been at the Royal Garden for more than 40 years.
The Royal Garden Hotel has always prided itself on its truly 5-star standards and we believe that having staff with a wealth of experience is central to the warm, friendly and efficient service that our guests experience every time they come to the hotel.

General Manager Graham Bamford (left) presenting an award

Underpinning every department within the hotel are individuals with the knowledge and experience to meet and often exceed customer expectations, and – apart from anything else – we know that our regular guests like to see the same friendly faces whenever they are in London.
With staff given the opportunity to both progress within their department or move into other areas of the hotel, we have been able to create career paths and develop loyalty that not only benefits our staff and the hotel but also means that we have hundreds of years of experience and expertise on call to ensure guests are looked after from the moment they walk through the door.
As a continuing commitment to high standards of service, we are currently encouraging guests to provide us with as much feedback as possible. Whether it is via our facebook page, twitter account or via TripAdvisor, we’d love to know what you like about the hotel and what you’d like us to improve.
Royal Garden Hotel Long Service Awards 2011
(15 years) Tino Verducci, Manuel Rebon, Luis Garcia Cobas, Jean Blacklock, Susan Newland, Christophe Lambert, Max Lenders, Jonathan Lowrey, Barbara Elliott, Nicole Davies, Evelyn Gonzales, Nicholas Hollands, Basil Taylor, Steven Munkley, Joao Malho, Nimfa Morillo, Isabella Brightey, Josefina Jones, Nour-Eddine Yacoubi, Bogumil Sur, Gillian Evans, John Pexton, Paul Bodenham, Peter Bodenham, Graham Bamford,
(5 years) Sultan Raja, Dariusz Czarny-Bojanowicz, Javier Garcia, Gloria Dennett, Aurelija Dimale, Danguole Zikiene, Elwra Jonkuviene, Miroslawa Hachula, Angel Marco Conca, Susie Wadsworth, Amit Chakrawati, Kiril Slavchey, Christopher Munroe, Edson Zuniga Cutipa, Alex Carroll, Koudou Fabrice Bleyiri, Felicity Hall, Seung-Jin Lee, Adam Faries, Patrick De La Mar

 

 

 

6 Reasons To Visit The Royal Garden Hotel This Christmas

Distinctive Comfort

Christmas Dining With A Difference

On Christmas day, enjoy a classic roast of the highest quality while taking in the picturesque view of Kensington Gardens at our Park Terrace Restaurant & Bar. All the traditional British favourites are on offer as well as some exciting new ideas in a four-course menu priced at £110 per person, and £60 for children under 12 years. And for those looking for an alternative take on Christmas Day lunch, Min Jiang – our stunning Chinese restaurant up on the tenth floor – will be offering a selection of set menus from £50 per person.

Christmas Banquets And Parties

We offer an excellent choice of Christmas packages from £85 per person. For larger Christmas parties, the Royal Garden Hotel is the perfect venue, with an excellent choice of spacious and elegant banqueting suites. The Palace Suite is the largest room, for up to 360 guests, with its own private street entrance and reception area. As well as offering the finest food and wines, the suites are ideal for live music and discos.

Our flexible Palace suite is hosting many Christmas parties

Shop Until You Drop

London is a great place to do your Christmas shopping and there’s no better place to find the perfect gifts this winter than the capital’s leading department store Harrods, which is just a stone’s throw from the Royal Garden Hotel, in Knightsbridge. And the shopping experience just got even better with our fantastic package. Book this exclusive offer now and you’ll receive a £50 Harrods gift voucher, a bottle of Canard-Duchêne champagne (if booking a Garden Room or above), complimentary use of our Soma sauna and steam room facilities and a full English breakfast.

December Afternoon Tea

Treat yourself to a quintessentially British tradition this winter and enjoy afternoon tea in the Park Terrace Restaurant & Bar. Choose from the Kensington Festive Tea for £22 per person or really treat yourself and go for the Royal Festive Tea at £33 per head, including a selection of sumptuous sandwiches, cakes and pastries and a glass of Canard-Duchêne champagne. There will, of course, also be a wide variety of fine leaf teas on offer and our sommeliers will be delighted to take you on a journey around the world of tea.

Festive Afternoon Tea at the Park Terrace Restaurant

 A New Year’s Eve To Remember

Start the New Year as you mean to go at Royal Garden Hotel with two fantastic options to see in 2012 in style. Enjoy the spectacle of the fireworks along the Thames from the warmth of the tenth floor at Min Jiang and indulge in a lavish Chinese banquet. Alternatively, let the champagne flow at our Park Terrace restaurant and bar at this year’s Gala Celebration. There will be a magnificent banquet of food, wine and music, making it truly an evening to remember.

Park Life

The Royal Garden Hotel is perfectly placed to enjoy a scenic winter walk in either Kensington Gardens or Hyde Park and there are also plenty of activities to entertain adults and children of all ages. None more so than the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park, where there will be outdoor ice skating, winter fairs and Santa’s Grotto. The wonderful wonderland opens its door on 18 November and runs throughout the festive season until 3 January.