Pass by in a hurry and – especially if you’re not living in Porto – most likely you won’t realize that you’ve just arrived in front of one of the city’s two Leading Hotels of The World (LHW). Situated in the center of Porto, Le Monumental Palace doesn’t catch the eye with a daring architecture, glitzy design details like we’ve seen at many luxury hotels in the Middle East or its sheer size. On the contrary. Only a stone’s throw away from Clérigos, Bolhao market and Dom Luís I Bridge, Le Monumental Palace exudes an understated and impactful elegance starting right with its architecture. Evoking the elegant French art of living, the property’s Neoclassical style fits the hotel’s name – especially the “Palace” part – very well. Guests who appreciate a meaningful, elegant architecture, a sleek design and tiny details which make all the difference will find at Le Monumental Palace exactly what they were looking for.

Maison Albar Hotels

This 5-star boutique hotel brand was created in 2014 by Jean-Bernard and Céline Falco (born Albar). The first hotels were opened in Paris, in strategic areas of the city, then expanded in Provence, the French Riviera, Europe, and China. Each hotel, wherever it may be, has a soul: an effortless chic, delicately luxurious, intrinsically elegant art of living and hospitality. “Between these walls, families, couples, and business travelers receive unique and memorable treatments, helping them make lasting memories. Authentic emotions are our trademark, to be found around the world and for a long time”, believe the company’s founders.

Currently, the Maison Albar hotel collection includes properties in Paris (Le Champs-Elysees, Le Pont Neuf, Le Vendome, Le Diamond), Nimes (L’Imperator), Nice (Le Victoria), Chengdu (Le Luxehills) and Porto (Le Monumental Palace). Just like the maisons from a long time ago, back when the lineages of noble families were grouped, Maison Albar also has its flag nowadays. The company’s founders think that the following definition of a “maison” – 4 walls and a roof to be well sheltered – is dated. Instead, they believe that every maison should have its own personality, its own “life”, reflected in the image of the family members and their lifestyle. In the case of Maison Albar Hotels, the soul can be described as “a subtle personality that invites one to experience a very French effortless chic, accessible sophistication, wit and the French touch infusing the local culture.”

A genuine smile at check-in

“The doors are always open at Maison Albar Hotels, radiating into the neighborhood” is one of the company’s beliefs. We better understood what this meant when we arrived at the hotel. Despite the cold weather, cloudy skies and a few raindrops in Porto upon our arrival, the warm welcome we received at check-in made us forget about these inconveniences. Although we spent only 10 minutes in the main lobby, in front of the Reception, our first impression was that we were greeted by friends who have known us for quite a while instead of hotel employees helping guests check-in. Maybe it had something to do with the genuine smile of the two ladies who welcomed us, maybe it had something to do with the funny and witty conversation we had until the check-in process was completed or with the fact that we love Portugal a lot and we’re always happy to return there.

The refined touch of history

The connection between the present and the past is stronger than it may seem at first glance. Café Monumental – one of Porto’s most renowned cafes since 1930 and a favourite gathering place for the city’s elite ever since – is located on the ground floor of the hotel. In line with the Leading Hotels of the World philoshophy, the 5-star Le Monumental Palace catches the eye with its cohesive interior design, elegant details and the quality of the materials used. The hotel features an Art Deco lobby staircase, white marble from Estremoz, black ironwork, high ceilings, large windows and lots of mirrors which create unique visual effects, setting the perfect backdrop for some cool photos for your Instagram feed.

A twist of elegance and subtlety

Guests can choose between 63 rooms and 13 suites, a beautiful library with thousands of books, a dedicated relaxation area, they can create beautiful memories with their loved ones by the fireplace, enjoy haute-cuisine, make new friends at the hotel’s cafe and bar or unwind at the Spa and indoor swimming pool. Each room and suite is characterized by an elegant, 1930s-inspired decor, providing a welcoming, refined and cozy ambiance during the stay. Children haven’t been overlooked, either, as the hotel offers child-friendly amenities: sheets, pillows, bathrobes, slippers, etc. Also on offer: a breakfast for children specially prepared by the Chef, together with “Al, the sheep”, a booklet that has been created exclusively for them.

In the Superior rooms (29 square metres) everything is bespoke, from the graphical motifs, pastel fabrics and lacquered woodwork to the fine furnishings. The Suites Audacieuses (45 sqm) are spread over the 5 floors of the Monumental Palace. The array of graphical motifs is backed by elegant materials like pastel fabrics, lacquered woodwork and furnishings with well-balanced lines. The Suites Insensee (57 sqm) are characterized by an unique, sophisticated and refined decor, creating a warm and luxurious environment. Located on the hotel’s 5th floor, the duplex Suite Excessive (62 sqm) is the perfect place to admire the city lights, especially on a clear night, from the balcony or through the suite’s two windows.

If you want even more, go for the Suite Affolante (80 sqm). Here you will be enchanted by 21-century modernity and comfort doubled by a 1930s-style decor. The natural light coming from outside, thanks to the generous windows, highlights every detail: pastel fabrics, gleaming lacquered woodwork and exquisite furnishings. Marble bathrooms feature delicate Nuxe products, while the subtly-disguised TV and the cabinet minibar are two interesting design details. At the top of the offer sits the Suite Monumentale (87 sqm). By checking-in into this apartment-style suite with different areas you can experience the art of living well in the style of old bourgeois homes in. If you need additional space, the Suite Monumentale can be connected with another room.

A Michelin Plate restaurant…

Besides its location, the beautifully-designed and crafted interiors and the service with a smile, Le Monumental Palace has another ace up its sleeve: the gourmet restaurant Le Monument, awarded a Michelin Plate. Here, guests can discover the talent of Michelin-starred Chef Julien Montbabut’s cuisine as they indulge in a delicious journey. A journey where French know-how enhances the delights of Portuguese traditonal dishes. From the hotel’s brasserie to creative cuisine and dishes to share on the go, each guest will find something that suits their tastes.

Located on the ground floor and only accessible through the hotel, Le Monument restaurant is a marble and column setting with 40 seats. The décor is both modern and elegant, in harmony with the cuisine, and faithful to the spirit of the place, where it exudes a subdued and intimate atmosphere. For rare and exclusive moments, the restaurant is only open in the evening.

… and a French starred chef

After several years at the helm of a restaurant in Paris, where his gourmet cuisine has been recognized each year by a star in the famous guide, Julien Montbabut has expended his horizon and taken up a new challenge by managing the kitchens of Le Monumental Palace. Now a Portuguese resident, this Chef pays tribute to Portuguese products through creative dishes, while bringing his French know-how into the mix. At Le Monument, local products are in the spotlight, while keeping the spirit of French cuisine. Behind the scenes, the team is composed of 20 talented people supervised by Julien Montbabut. Deserts are not to be missed, courtesy of Pastry Chef Joana Thöny-Montbabut, who delights guests with gourmet and festive creations.

Your own cellar with Portuguese and French wines

Le Monumental Palace’s Head Sommelier, who has trained at several prestigious Michelin-starred restaurants, has selected some of the best wines from Portugal and France. They can be enjoyed in the hotel’s cellar, where guests can also purchase the wines they’ve liked the most.

Monumental Cafe and Bar Americain

If you’ve been to France many times and you loved sitting in a brasserie, enjoying its ambiance, you’re in for good news: the spirit of the French capital is floating through Monumental Cafe, the hotel’s Parisian-style brasserie. This historical cafe is a cool spot to be for breakfast, lunch, snack time or dinner, savouring traditional cuisine, foie gras, poultry and the famous dessert trolley.

During our time spent at Monumental Cafe we’ve noticed the large windows, which provide a warm ambiance given the natural lighting, the elegant chandeliers, the intricate design details and the refined motifs with an aristocratic touch. For guests staying at Le Monumental Palace, lazy mornings and a healthy breakfast can be enjoyed either in the breakfast room (open from 7 AM to 10:30 AM) or in the brasserie (from 9 AM to 10:30 AM).

For memorable evenings with friends or like-minded people you’ve just met during your stay, Bar American is the perfect place to spend the evening and head into the night. You’ll have plenty on offer to choose from: classic cocktails, special creations and a selection of the best port wines assorted with snacks. Live piano performances add a nice touch, providing a melodious background for interesting conversations.

And if you’re looking to rejuvenate your body and mind, the hotel’s Nuxe Spa – with indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and three treatment rooms (including one for water therapies) – awaits you daily from 9:30 AM to 8 PM.

Thoughts upon check-out

Our stay in Porto was brief, but we’ll return for a longer stay to explore the city in a warmer climate. Looking on the bright side, the cold and rainy weather gave us the opportunity to enjoy more time at Le Monumental Palace and unwind in its charming decors. This is one of those hotels that made us feel more at home, in a familiar surrounding, and less on the road. Spend at least one night here and you will also be seduced by the interesting mix of history, design, genuine service and subtle luxury. “Strong essences are kept in small bottles”, they say. Just as well, “Quality over quantity” is the guiding principle for many hotels around the world, while others embrace the “Less is more” philosophy. In the case of Maison Albar – Le Monumental Palace, these three principles fit perfectly into the picture. www.maison-albar-hotels-le-monumental-palace.com

You can feel at home in the middle of a tropical forest, on an empty beach – watching the sunrise and sunset – or on a snowy mountain peak as long as you’re surrounded by the right people, doing what you love. You can also feel at home in a foreign city, thousands of miles away from your residence. This Spring, Made in Louise hotel made us feel at home for two days in the heart of Brussels’ Art Nouveau district. The hotel has an interesting story behind it. Mélanie and Martin Dechateau are brother and sister, inseparable, driven by the same passion for the trade and both graduates of the Lausanne Hotel school. Believing in the “hospitality with a difference” concept, in 2011 they bought the old hotel Louise. Together with their mother, who’s an interior designer, they’ve renovated the hotel, with respect for the style and charm of this 20th century Brussels townhouse.

Location and architecture

We’ve said it before and will say it again: we’re huge fans of boutique and design hotels, properties where the accent falls on personalized service and not on how huge the building is, how glitzy or how many rooms it has. We like properties where the owners and staff seem to know you for ages and, upon check-out, you end up considering them as your second family. Hotels where the cozy, intimate ambiance and the service with a genuine smile, make you think about returning there as soon as possible.

A 5-minute walk from the Metro Louise (3 stops from the Midi station) and a 15-minute walk from the European Parliament, Made in Louise – name related to the neighbourhood where it’s located – is a typically Brussels townhouse from the 20th century. Drive fast past Rue Veydt 40 and chances are you’ll miss this lovely hotel – a little gem hidden in the middle of Brussels – nestled between the adjacent buildings. At night, mood lighting reveals the hotel’s facade and elegant architecture.

It’s all in the numbers: 48, 9, 10+

Discerning travellers who opt for a stay at Made in Louise will find 48 comfortable rooms, each with its own character, a warm and welcoming atmosphere exuding the Belgian-style art of living. The hotel’s staff comprises 9 members, but don’t let this number fool you. As you know, “strong essences are kept in small bottles” and this also applies when it comes to the quality service you get from the hotel’s staff. If you’re a frequent traveller, you’ll sense right away after checking-in that Made in Louise is run by someone experienced in the hospitality industry. Martin, the owner and General Manager, has over 10 years experience with leading global hotel chains and his expertise is clearly visible in every corner of the property.

The interior exudes good taste, with a nice mix of colors, and has some clever design details meant to further highlight the cool ambiance: a carpet in the lobby with ruler-like design, the small fireplace, a white billiard table and the giant chess board found in the hotel’s courtyard. From the fonts used on the walls to indicate the room numbers to the quotes found at the reception and in other public spaces, everything has been carefully thought out and nothing has been left to chance. We loved the funny sentence written on the rollerball pens found in the room: “I don’t have a bad handwriting. I have my own font.” Nice one!

Other details which make for a pleasant stay and are in-line with the philosophy behind this boutique hotel: contemporary furniture, colorful wallpapers adorning the rooms’ walls, windows with wooden shutters and fluffy carpets. Some rooms boast large windows opening onto the leafy courtyard, while others have views of the Art Nouveau district. Sometimes the bathroom is hidden in a cupboard, sometimes small stairs lead up to it, but every time spacious beds with 100% cotton sheets await guests at the end of a long day spent exploring Brussels.

Cosy, Charming or Executive?

The “Cosy” rooms (12-14 sqm) are suitable for one guest, boast a bathroom with walk-in shower and overlook the courtyard or the street. For double occupancy you can choose the “Comfort” rooms (14-16 sqm), also overlooking the courtyard or the street, featuring a bathroom with bathtub and shower. How about “Charming”? These double superior rooms (20-23 sqm) boast a double bed 160 cm or twin beds (subject to availability) and the possibility to add a baby cot. If you opt for an “Executive” room (24-26 sqm, suitable for max 3 persons), you’ll get a double bed of 180 cm or twin beds, the possibility to add a baby cot, a large bathroom with bathtub or walk-in rain shower and views overlooking the courtyard or the street.

Yumminess on the menu

Belgian delicacies and beers have taken the world by storm, so expect to find plenty of these during your Made in Louise stay. The buffet breakfast is served in the bright loggia overlooking the courtyard and only ultra-fresh products – as much as possible homemade, local and organic – are used. The hotel’s 24-hour snack bar boasts gluten-free sweet and savoury snacks. If you feel like going out for lunch or dinner, there are several restaurants close by, suited to all tastes and diets. If not, you can order food from Brussels’ best restaurants and have it delivered at the hotel bar or right in the comfort of your own room. Made in Bar is the perfect place to try out some Belgian craft beers together with friends – old or new – while telling cool travel stories. You can also drink wine by the glass and natural and organic drinks.

HOME is where the heart is

In 2017, Made in Louise had a 9.3 score on Booking.com – Guest Review Awards. Also last year, the hotel was a winner at Travellers’ Choice TripAdvisor and got a 5.4 out of 6 score on HolidayCheck. After we’ve spent two days at this Brussels property we highly recommend, it was crystal clear why it received these accolades. No wonder regular guests have their favorite rooms when checking-in at this exquisite boutique hotel. A place where the “HOME” word which welcomes you at the Reception represents more than just four letters. It stands for a well-kept promise.

Despite being a frequent flyer, reaching some of the world’s most fascinating places on business or personal trips – New York, St. Maarten in the Caribbean, Japan, Nepal, Los Angeles, China, Dubai, Rio de Janeiro, to name just a few – I’ve never been to Greece up until June 2017. Many of my friends and business partners have been going there for years, so I said to myself I have to see, first-hand, what’s so special about Greece. And so I booked, through a travel agency, a 6-night family stay at Elea Village, a 3-star Acrotel property in Sithonia, Halkidiki, one hour drive from Thessaloniki airport.

As a petrolhead and former motoring journalist, I’ve arrived at the hotel after a long, but scenic drive through three countries: Romania, Bulgaria and Greece. Located on the coast of Elia, near the villages of Nikiti (10 km) and Neos Marmaras (12 km) and offering magnificent views of the Toroneos Gulf, Elea Village is surrounded by beautiful gardens with olive and palm trees, as well as various Mediterranean plants. Distributed across 8 traditional buildings, Elea Village – which will be upgraded and turned into a 4-star Plus hotel in 2020 or 2021 – offers 80 rooms: 36 Standard double rooms that accommodate up to three guests, 18 Superior double rooms (with extra bed) that accommodate up to four guests, and 26 family apartments that consist of two rooms with one double and two single beds. Each room features air conditioning, a refrigerator, satellite TV, bathroom with shower and a balcony or terrace. If last year I’ve booked a Superior Room with Sea View, this year I’ve opted for a Standard Room and a longer stay (10 nights).

Which is the one thing that almost always pops in your head when you think or speak about Greece? Many will say delicious food and tasty culinary experiences. Of course, eye-catching landscapes, that mesmerizing crystal-clear, blue water, interesting traditions and beautiful people (inside and out) also come to mind. At Elea Village, the menus were created with a fine selection of Mediterranean and Greek flavors. Votsalo, the hotel’s restaurant, located close to the main and kids’ pools, is a “restaurant with a view”, offering unforgettable vistas at sunset as you dine.

If you like to wander around, exploring the region by car throughout the day, then we recommend half-board when you book your stay. This way you can enjoy breakfast, then jump in the car and set off to explore new locations, have lunch at a tavern discovered along the way, and return at sunset, just in time for dinner. Elea Village also offers all-inclusive stays. To make new friends or simply to enjoy a cappuccino or a Greek beer with your closest ones, the hotel’s pool bar is the perfect place to do just that. Located next to the swimming pool and overlooking the sea, surrounded by a garden with olive trees, palms and flowers, the bar offers cold drinks, fresh juices, coffees, snacks, ice creams and cocktails. The music’s good, too!

Apart from the hotel’s restaurant, which awaits you with a wide variety of food that changes daily, you can also savour Greek cuisine at two taverns close-by. Right across the narrow road which winds in front of the hotel there’s Boukadoura (Akti Elias) tavern. It offers not only delicious Greek food, but also breathtaking views at sunset, when you can watch the sun going down at the horizon while enjoying a glass of wine and listening to chill-out music. Virginia is another cool tavern located further down the road, 2 km from Elea Village (next to Virginia Hotel), offering refreshing views over the azure sea, with some tables positioned right at the edge of the cliff.

Coming back to Elea Village, guests also enjoy themed events three times per week. The Greek Night unfolds every Friday evening in the hotel’s garden, close to the pool and bar, enchanting tourists with traditional Greek dances and music. Everybody feels good, so – at some point – almost all of those who watch the two Greek performers from the side end up dancing, clapping their hands or singing. During this year’s stay, Sunday evening was reserved for Piano Night, while jazz lovers gathered around the bar on Tuesday night for a live jazz performance.

During the summer season, Latin nights and other activities like pottery lessons are organized on the hotel’s grounds, which also include a playground for children. Elea Village doesn’t have a beach of its own, but you can reach one with sunbeds and umbrellas after a 5-minute walk, to the left of the property. However, our favourite beach – narrow and overlooking the amazing turquoise waters – was closer that that, almost 100 m from the hotel, on the right side of the road, hidden in the trees’ shadow.

The 10 nights I’ve spent at Acrotel Elea Village in mid-July went by quicker than expected. Time flies when you’re having fun, right? During this year’s stay I’ve also met and spoke with the hotel’s General Manager. Passionate about the travel industry and knowing a thing or two about running a restaurant, Efi was present almost daily in the middle of her team to make sure everything goes smoothly and guests are satisfied with the service. Fully committed to what they do, Pandora, Souzi, Marilena, Ria, Aleksandra, Roxy and Nikos – some of the staff’s young members – impressed me during the brief, yet interesting chats we had on various topics. Some of them want to pursue a career in hospitality, others are working at the hotel only as a summer time job. Either way, they’ve proved – once again – that being passionate about what you do and “wearing” a genuine smile makes a lasting impression.

If only more hotel employees and GMs were like this…

As soon as we’ve arrived at the hotel – located 10 minutes from the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, 10 minutes from the Jardin du Luxembourg and reachable after a 5 minute walk from the Saint Germain church – we wanted to know who Juliette was and what’s the story behind the name of this Parisian property. Right after checking-in, during a tour of the hotel, we found out. Daughter of sollicitor Jean Bernard, Juliette was born in Lyon in 1777. At fifteen she married the well-known banker Jacques Rose Récamier. Well-read and a good dancer, she also sang and could play both the harp and the piano. Her beauty and kindness helped build her reputation as an exceptional woman. It was said that she was able to charm, entertain or dispense with the over ardent without making enemies.

Incredibly skilled in the art of entertaining, from the age of 15 until her death at 72 she hosted an incredibly popular literary salon, attended by every member of the intelligentsia. For half a century, reproducing the style of 18th century salons, Juliette was synonymous with socialising à la française. It was she who succeeded in helping François-René de Chateaubriand, the man to whom she devoted her life, to finish what was to become his masterpiece: Les Mémoires d’Outre-Tombe (Memoirs From Beyond The Grave). At the Abbaye-aux-Bois, where she held her salons for over thirty years, her influence on literature and politics was well known. Among the innumerable regular visitors were notable characters such as René Chateaubriand, her only real love, Germaine de Stael, her best friend, André Marie Ampère, Auguste de Prusse, Lucien Bonaparte, The Duchess of Devonshire, Pierre Simon Ballanche, Talma and many others. Fascinated by Juliette’s story, the hotel owners – Corinne and Pascal Moncelli – wanted to bring a touch of history to the property and make it stand out. Now, every guest checking-in will know where the hotel takes its name from.

We also “meet” Juliette in the interior of the property. For the rooms, interior designer Anne Gelbard evokes Juliette’s friendships, basing her design on a variation of the Empire style, both poetic and humorous. The furniture is inspired by Scandinavian designers and their inimitable style, while the engravings and frames in the room are from the era. Moreover, each colour has been specially created by Anne and references a period in the life of Juliette Récamier. A nice mix between classic and modern touches, the design of the rooms is backed by quality materials and the latest technologies, Apple’s iMacs being just an example. During our stay we happily found out that each room has underfloor heating in the bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, a safe where a 13-inch laptop can fit, wood flooring, minibar, as well as individual heating / air conditioning (all year round). A nice touch: La Belle Juliette awaits its guests with toiletries with a fragrance developed exclusively for the hotel.

Like a few other hotels we’ve stayed at, La Belle Juliette comprises one classic building street-side, known as “La Vie Parisienne”, and a new wing overlooking the garden, known as “l’Abbaye-aux-Bois”. The hotel has 45 rooms, with a different design scheme for each floor – adding a touch of creativity to the property. While the “Vie Parisienne” building has 34 rooms measuring 17-35 m2, including two suites and four junior suites, the new “Abbaye-aux-Bois” wing has 11 rooms measuring 19-46 m2, including one suite and three split-level rooms. When it comes to rooms’ size, La Belle Juliette doesn’t impress with big numbers, but we always prefer a cosy ambiance to getting lost in a huge apartment lacking personality.

The first floor of “La Vie Parisienne” is dedicated to Mme Recamier and Mme De Stael. Intimate friends, feminists, modern women; one was delicate, the other forceful. The powdery tones on this floor are homage to femininity and the touches of mustard yellow remind us that Juliette Récamier loved this colour. Inside the wardrobes there’s a “Swan” wallpaper by a Mexican artist and  in the bathrooms, tiles with a “printed lace” design contribute to the feeling of calm. The second floor focuses on the voyages in Italy – one of Juliette’s most memorable places of exile, with intense artistic and personal encounters. Concrete panels have been treated to look as if they are worn by acid and a barely visible silk-like print references Vesuvius. In the bathrooms, the ceramic tiles have a folded paper look.

The 3rd floor is dedicated to Rene de Chautebriand, “the” person in Juliette’s life. On one side we have images of his youth, his passion, his flamboyant ideas, on the other his wisdom, or rather his thoughtfulness and the writing of his memoirs. This floor is laid out as if to echo the volumes of his memoirs. The “Charentaise”-style fabric of the armchairs and Hermès bed spreads symbolise a more classic, masculine, conventional style. The curtains have subtle Asian motifs similar to those found in the opium dens that proliferated in France (especially Paris) in the 19th century. Inside the wardrobes, the Hermès wallpaper’s chain motif is a reference to Chateaubriand’s life of intense socialising.

The 4th and 5th floors – Les Causeries – represent the social whirl of the era’s literary salons, high-society balls, famous personalities and the evolution of moral values. Every “Salon” found here is split-level (duplex), one of them being our “home” for two nights. In the rooms, the interior designer has used dulled and dark colours, making a cocoon-like space where guests will feel cosy. The filtered light brings out the combination of materials and volumes, while the curtains have the feel of a cape worn to a court. In the lounge areas there are customised 70s dressing tables and diamond-shaped tapestry cushions are placed as colourful humorous touches. The bathrooms feature Corian washbasins and specially-made mirrors.

L’Abbaye-aux-Bois, the new wing overlooking the garden, also has some nice touches. For the 11 rooms found here, interior designer Anne Gelbard has chosen to show a different facet of Juliette – modern, daring, in love with the avant-garde, a benefactor of the arts who would have “held court” in an artist’s workshop. The décor is made up of contemporary and vintage 20th century designer furniture, new materials, a slightly modified colour scheme and the same scorched wood floors you might find in a workshop. Wood is heavily featured, not only in the scorched oak flooring, but also with the shutters, wooden panels and furniture. Several pieces of furniture and decorative items were found in secondhand shops and antique stores in Berlin, Brussels, London.

Moreover, guests looking for rooms as art galleries should check out those from La Belle Juliette’s new wing. In each room there are photos taken by the young photographers who took part in the hotel’s photo project “Photo d’Hôtel, Photo d’Auteur”. “It seemed logical to present some of the participants’ work in the new wing of La Belle Juliette as homage to Juliette Récamier’s support for the arts and her gift for discovering new talents” the General Manager of the hotel told us. In addition, each floor has its own colour created by Anne Gelbard to reflect the most important periods and people in the life of Madame Récamier.

Also new is the ground floor of La Belle Juliette, which has been completely remodelled. Now it has a welcoming bar where guests can enjoy a drink, check their e-mail or conduct business meetings in the tranquil area between the fireplace and lounge area. As the evening approaches, the lighting becomes more subdued, the music a little more upbeat and the atmosphere more intimate. Perfect for some unforgettable moments spent with your loved one, friends or people you’ve just met. There’s also a semi-open, heated terrace under the pergola awaiting guests as soon as the warm weather arrives. Those who wish to unwind even more can try the Spa at La Belle Juliette (80 m2). Guests can make us of the steam room, a tiny pool designed by Anne Gelbard and two treatment rooms (15 m2 each) where face treatments using Maria Galland products and Maria Galland and Phytomer body treatments are available. Upon request, the Spa can be privatised, with champagne, snacks and sweets provided. Summing it up… If you’re spending a few days in Paris, check-out La Belle Juliette. You’ll like it. The location, the friendly staff, the good service, the design of the rooms and an interesting story should make it a pleasant stay.

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Following a ten million Euro investment, Vila Gale Palacio dos Arcos – the Group’s first five star property in Portugal – opened its doors on April 25th 2013. Set on the eastern side of Paco de Arcos, Palácio dos Arcos is a landmark and one of the town most symbolic buildings. A brief history lesson. Built in the late 15th century, Palácio dos Arcos covers an area of almost 2,000 square metres distributed on three floors. The refined architecture with simple lines, the extensive gardens and privileged location by the river made this the favourite palace of elite Portuguese families.

Portuguese King Manuel I – also known as “the Fortunate One” – and his daughter Maria used to stay there frequently, in particular when participating in hunting trips, watching Vasco da Gama’s caravels leaving for India. Other kings of Portugal – Ferdinand I, Louis I and Queen Maria Pia – also stayed frequently in this palace in order to attend the famous regattas of Paço de Arcos. This beautiful palace still retains the two turrets joined by a large porch from the originally built structure, supported by three arches, and the chapel, which were preserved when the palace was rebuilt in the 18th century.

The chapel has a remarkable baroque altar, especially due to the richness of its marbles (Florentine mosaics, polychrome motives, purple and brown Solomonic columns and white angels). The oratories marble is Italian, probably imported from Italy at the time of the great orders made by King João V. The chapel also bears some Sacred Art pieces, including a sculpture of Our Lady of Conception in polychrome wood, 18th century Portuguese art. After Count of Arrochella, the palace’s last owner, died in 1997, Palácio dos Arcos was held by the Municipal Council of Oeiras. However, as the years passed by, the palace’s condition degraded, hence the need for a thorough restoration in order to preserve it. Following a tender, the Vila Galé Group’s project was chosen as the most appropriate one, a project which saw the transformation of the palace into a 5-star hotel while preserving its gardens and heritage.

Arriving at the hotel. We’ve reached Vila Gale Palacio dos Arcos by driving on the picturesque coastal route linking Cascais to Portugal’s capital. The scenery is beautiful and if you get lost in the ocean views – with the sky smoothly embracing the sea in the distance – you could easily drive by the hotel. Luckily, the bright yellow of the building caught our eye so we turned right just in time, with 15 km to go to Lisbon. Going slightly uphill, we then followed a short cobbled driveway, passed through an arched, narrow gate and stopped in the small, inner courtyard right in front of the hotel’s entrance. This secluded space made us feel even better and more relaxed, even if the area around the hotel can be described as anything but bustling. Check-in formalities completed and we headed, accompanied by a staff member, to our room overlooking the pool. On the way we passed by the chapel then through the glass-windowed bridge connecting the old building with the new wing.

Poetry and romance. “Hotel dos Poetas” has 71 bedrooms and 5 suites. Two suites and three bedrooms are located in the Palace, all with a stunning view to the river Tagus. The remaining bedrooms are located in the New Wing. Each comes with a wide balcony and all bedrooms – together with some hallways and public spaces, even elevator doors – are decorated with verses, in tune with the “Poetry” theme chosen for this property. The poems are written in various languages – English, French, German, Portuguese – and some of the hotel’s Suites are named after famous figures, people who shaped history: Goethe (102), Jose Saramango (103), Dante Alighieri (104), William Shakespeare (105). For book lovers there’s also a small library on two levels, a cozy space with a capacity of up to 8 people that can be used for meetings. Extending the art theme, the garden of Vila Gale Palacio dos Arcos – where the outdoor swimming pool is located – boasts several statues, beautiful to look at during the daily stroll.

Dining. With a concept based on the Portuguese gastronomy, the hotel’s Inevitável restaurant offers contemporary cuisine by Chef Francisco Ferreira. Palace foie gras with onion confit, hazelnuts and spices crumble, Shrimp risotto in coriander emulsion, Young veal with lavender, fresh broad beans and mushrooms in red wine reduction sauce with cinnamon and cardamom are some of the exquisite dishes from the new menu. For a more casual environment head to Pessoa Lounge Bar, accessible through the lobby. Open daily from 10 AM to midnight, this is the place to enjoy cocktails and snacks. From April to September guests can also unwind at the Pool Bar.

Romeo & Juliet at the Spa. Covering almost 350 square metres, Satsanga Spa comes with a dedicated massage room for two – “Romeo & Juliet”, a massage/beauty room, Vichy shower, gym, dynamic indoor pool, sauna, Turkish bath, rain/Swiss shower and Cascade shower. When it comes to meetings, Vila Galé Palácio dos Arcos relies on Luis de Camoes with a total area of 214 sqm, natural light and a maximum capacity of up to 200 people. Originally, this room was the Palace’s old wine cellar, then it was fully restored and equipped with modern equipment suitable for various types of events.

Take a 16th century fortress which houses the hotel, a “Hot Property” title given by Conde Nast Traveller in April 2013 and Portugal’s first Raw-Art gallery to realize we’re dealing with a unique offering, the first of its kind in Europe. Pousada de Cascais, Cidadela Historic Hotel & Art District, is located close to the centre of Cascais, the pictoresque coastal town set 30 km west of Lisbon. A former fishing village, Cascais is now one of the richest municipalities in Portugal. The citadel – a national monument – and the Fortress of Nossa Senhora da Luz (Our Lady of the Light) are part of the military forts built between the 15th and 17th century to defend the coast. As from 1870, the citadel was used as a Royal residence where king D. Luís I died. It was in Cascais that the Portuguese Royal Family started to go to the beach, so this is a place worth visiting especially if you’re interested in such stories. Moreover, the village of Sintra, a World Heritage site renowned for its beautiful palaces, is only 20 minutes away.

When art takes over. However, what makes this hotel really interesting is the Art District which turns Pousada de Cascais into the first hotel in Europe with a project of this kind. The Cidadela Art District is the place where you can discover numerous exhibition sites scattered over the whole Pousada, including the Fortress walls. Six galleries await you, including the first and only Raw Art gallery in Portugal, and six Open Studios where artists can be seen during their creative process. The hotel also features 9 exclusive Author’s Rooms created by the residing artists available for reservations and visitors, by appointment at the reception. As expected, an Art Concierge is available to guide guests and visitors through the sites and the open studios, keeping them up to date with exhibitions and the events calendar.

Portugal’s first and only Raw-Art gallery. During our stay at Pousada de Cascais we discovered some beautiful works of art. Created by people with disabilities, the paintings send out emotional messages, showcasing the provocative way these artists see the surrounding world. It’s worth mentioning that even if you are not a guest of Pousada de Cascais you can visit the Raw-Art gallery, open from Wednesday to Sunday. “I’m bored, could you amuse me?” This was the neon-lit message seen in one of the 9 designer rooms we were mentioning earlier. You can find it in Ana Perez Quiroga quarto de autor. Or, if you’re the more religious type of person, you can opt for a room with several Bibles showcased in a glass-walled box at the end of the bed. This room is called Travessa da Ermida and comes with its own quote of the day: “A bible a day keeps the doctor away”.

Former barracks with spectacular sea views. Posauda de Cascais is a place where ancient meets modern. More than just another marketing phrase, this really is the case and you feel it right upon arrival. Set above the village’s marina, among palm trees and lovely panoramas, Pousada de Cascais awaits guests with 108 rooms and 18 suites. With courtyard or square views, the hotel’s rooms range between 22 and 36 sqm, while suites – overlooking the marina/sea and the main square – cover an area between 50 and 87 sqm. As we found out from the hotel’s PR, Pousada de Cascais is the largest Pousada property in Portugal. We liked the fact that all rooms and suites were decorated in a modern, minimalistic style. The design is simple and appealing, with a nice mix of colours showcasing the “less is more” philosophy appreciated by many, including us.

Overlooking the Atlantic. If you fancy having breakfast, lunch or light meals on the terrace, enjoying a lovely panorama of the Atlantic with the sound of the waves in the background, look no further than Maris Stella. Named after one of the Portuguese royal family sailboats, the restaurant delights with Mediterranean dishes such as freshly grilled golden bream or bass fillets along with cold octopus or cod salads. For a fresh ambiance, the walls of the windows slide open and all you have to do is sink into the beautiful views of Cascais marina.

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you combined a library and a cellar? Even if you haven’t, check out Taberna da Praça restaurant (202 seats) which serves typical cuisine snacks (petiscos) made with products from Portugal. Apart from appetizers – one of the most important traditions of the Portuguese society, Taberna da Praça entices with snacks like eggs with tomatoes and smoked chicken chorizo, flaky cod salad and whitebait sardines. In a nod to the country’s literary history, the restaurant has a retro library vibe with curved cellar-like ceilings and trompe l’oil bookshelf wallpaper.

How about some i-Scream? No, Apple hasn’t re-invented the ice cream. We’re referring to the fresh and welcoming decor where you can indulge in delicious ice creams and cakes whose recipe has been safely guarded for generations. After you’ve sampled these delicious deserts, head to the Lobby Bar. Here, 600 swallows imagined by Portuguese artist Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro liven up the room and make you feel, for a moment, like you’re in the middle of the nature, birdwatching. Between 5 PM and 1 AM, daily, light meals with the touch of Chef Manuel Alexander are served in the Lobby Bar.

Business and pleasure. Pousada de Cascais has 12 function rooms, some with natural lighting. All meeting rooms come with the necessary audiovisual equipment: TV, video, data-show, overhead projector, flip chart. Conde de Cantanhede is the largest room, with a capacity of up to 350 people, in theatre-style, and a ceiling height of 5 meters. After those stressful business meetings it’s time to work out at the fitness center – where several multi-function devices are available to keep you fit – or relax at the Magic Wellness Spa. Here, surrounded by local textiles and natural materials incorporated into the design, you’ll unwind among a variety of treatments: full body and head massages as well as cranio facials (gentle head and face maneuvers to relieve tension), hot stone treatment, reflexology, steam & sauna or spa pool. www.lhw.com

The mercurial west of Ireland skies do their Dance of the Seven Veils many times a day, revealing luscious light and the verdant topography of County Galway, then casting moody shadows that display the wears of the countryside in a totally other aspect. It is a landscape that is at once highly dramatic and deeply restful. Largely uninhabited, Connemara combines gorgeous lakes and silent mountains, with an ever dwindling population of indolent sheep. The Maamturk Mountains and the glacially carved Twelve Bens make you catch your breath, as the sun and the clouds dance over the sepia boglands. 

We made our made way towards the enchanted Kylemore Abbey and Gardens, stopping for tea and scones. The Gothic Abbey was built as a private home in the 1860’s by Mitchell Henry, after he and his wife fell in love with the area while visiting on their honeymoon. The Abbey was handed over to the St Benedictine nuns in the 1920’s and it was a girls boarding school for until relatively recently. 

It’s not that things don’t get done, it’s just that you’re on a different clock and things happen in more indirect ways and at a pace all of their own.   

Across the fjord in Mayo is the Delphi Lodge, a spectacular country house and fishing lodge built in the 1830’s by the then Marquis of Sligo. Tastefully transformed in the 1980’s into one of the most restful and elegant places to stay, by the former English journalist Peter Mantle, Delphi Lodge is rightly listed in the 1000 Places To See Before You Die. There are just 12 bedrooms in the lodge, none of which have locks and the atmosphere in the house is more like that of a country house than a luxury hotel. Most of the people who we met there, from across Europe, are people who return at the same time each year, to relax and fish the bountiful lakes for salmon and trout. For the non-fishing spouse, there is a well-stocked, eclectic library over-looking the lake and many lovely places to walk or just sit and read. There is also a lovely spa next door. 

Evenings at the Delphi Lodge are enchanting. Residents gather for hors d’ouveres and pre-dinner drinks in the lounge before sitting down together to dine at the long communal table. Before plates of scrumptious, organic local food such as lamb or fish, there was friendly conversation about the day’s fishing and other activities, in multiple languages and accents. For the solo traveller, this is welcoming and easy place to break bread. One woman from Carmel in Northern California, who has been coming there by herself, on the same week every year (week 39, as it happens) for several years, caught her first salmon and was presented with the Delphi Trophy. The last name to be inscribed on it was that of a certain Tiger Woods. She joked that it was the most expensive salmon in history! 

It’s a very welcoming and low key place, the Delphi Lodge that handles all the small details with exquisite attention. 

After dinner, a fire is lit in the lounge, where guests repair for chocolate truffles and post prandials, just short of purring with utter contentment. There is an immense depth of silence and serenity that surrounds the house and the lake which it faces, that makes the cares of the rest of the world seem very remote and really not that important. As we sunk into the four poster bed over-looking the lake, which was once occupied by Prince Charles, I sighed with pleasure and looked forward to one more day in paradise. Patricia Danaher.

Frank Laino, the hotel’s Executive Head Concierge, was chosen “The best concierge in the world” for more than 5 years. With Italian roots, Frank was born and raised in London. He worked here as a concierge for more than 20 years of which 10 at The Stafford. Thanks to his contacts Frank can satisfy almost every request of the guests. Gino Nardella, Master Sommelier, is another big name in the team of The Stafford London. Gino earned this title in 1981 and ranks amongst the few Master Sommeliers in Great Britain who currently hold the title. Gino’s knowledge is huge, starting from his childhood spent at the family-owned vineyard in the South of France to more than 40 years of exprience in the field. We can’t speak about Gino without referring to the hotel’s 380 year-old wine cellars, one of its trademarks. Built in the 17th century by Lord Francis Godolphin, the wine cellars are situated below Blue Ball Yard, which dates from the 18th century. Today, the hotel’s wine cellars – the perfect place for private events, launches or festive dinners – house between 18,000 and 20,000 bottles, including many rare and precious vintages.

Its fascinating history represents another defining element for The Stafford London. 

Previously known as Richmond Club Chambers, Green’s Private Hotel and St. James’s Place Hotel, The Stafford London was officially opened in 1912. During the Second World War the hotels’ cellars served as a refuge for British and Canadian officers. In the years following the war the Better ‘Ole Club was founded, whose membership comprises guests recognized for services above and beyond the call of duty. One of its most famous members is HRH the Prince of Wales. At the end of the ‘80s The Stafford was already a favourite amongst the American tourists in London. From 1995 the hotel has undergone a program of continual re-investment, including a 6-month closure for major refurbishment in 1996, with an annual spend of over 1 billion pounds on redecorating and replacing fabrics and furniture. May 2007 saw the opening of the all-suite Stafford Mews “all-suite” development, in 2010 the hotel being included in the Kempinski Hotels collection.

The Stafford London offers 105 rooms and suites spread across The Main House, The Carriage House and The Stafford Mews. 

The Main House includes 67 rooms and suites, the decorations and materials used echoing the glorious times. The Gov’nor’s Suite, spread on 2 levels and boasting a seven metres tall window, is certainly impressive. The lower floor has a lounge, a library and a dining-room, while the upper floor holds the king-size bedroom. The Carriage House has 12 restored rooms and suites, all overlooking the Blue Ball Yard. Originally built as stables to house the thoroughbreds of the nobility, The Carriage House later became the home of an antiquarian bookseller and a workshop for a renowned art picture framer. Reflecting the building’s past, the rooms and suites from the ground floor still retain their stable doors and bear the names of famous horses. All of the rooms feature the original timber beams thought to have been reclaimed from old sailing ships in the 1750s. Nowadays, The Carriage House are one of London’s most attractive and original accommodation options. During the summer months scented flowers fill the balconies, while in winter they are replaced with decorated Christmas trees which stand outside each door. The Stafford Mews brings 26 junior and master suites – with one, two or three rooms – spread over 6 floors. This wing can be accessed via a separate lobby with the option of in-room check-in. The Mews also includes a penthouse apartment with private outdoor terrace overlooking the London skyline.

Expensive jewelry, elegant watches, stunning accessories and seducing perfumes. In just one word – Bulgari. In Spring 2004 the famous Italian empire made its entrance into another segment by opening its first hotel in Milan. The new division, called Bulgari Hotels & Resorts, is a joint-venture between the Bulgari Group and the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. Located on Via Privata Fratelli Gabba 7b, within a 4000 sq meters private garden, the hotel has been built in one of the most prestigious city locations. That is the Brera district, neighboring the Botanical gardens, Via della Spiga, Via Montenapoleone and La Scala theatre, famous fashion stores being a few steps away.

Officially inaugurated on 18th May 2004 in the presence of Paolo Bulgari (Chairman of the Group), Nicola Bulgari (Vice-Chairman) and other high-ranking officials, Bulgari Hotel perfectly illustrates the Group’s philosophy. 

Responsible for exterior design and interior shapes is architect Antonio Citterio, who embraced a bold and yet in-fashion style. Three key elements define the hotel: its unique location, its contemporary design and the variety of services. All which have been thoroughly studied with the same accuracy found in every Bulgari jewel. The originality consists in a pure and essential design, capable of inducing outstanding chromatic harmonies by usage of rare and precious materials. Thus, in public spaces we have black Zimbabwe marble, Vicenza stone and Turkish Aphyon for the Spa, respectively teak, durmast and oak for the rooms and suites. Where guests can relax amidst contemporary Italian furniture and details designed by the same Antonio Citterio. Moreover, Bulgari Hotel’s fragrance lies also in „the age“ of the building, made up of three sections. Here, the oldest of the three facades dates back to the 1700s, being partly visible even today!
 

In contrast with the surrounding buildings, Bulgari Hotel features a white marble facade and durmast windows enriched with black granite gutters.

A total of 58 rooms and suites are cleverly „disguised“ thanks to the exterior shapes. The main lobby draws attention through a row of high and narrow windows, as well as a sliding-door. Seen as a natural extension of the interior space, the garden represents „la piece de resistance“ of Bulgari Hotel. In perfect harmony, green areas intermingle with granite, inside and outside paths resembling the corridors of an impressive giant maze. Inside the rooms, comfort is a must. Wide windows together with adjacent balconies offer stunning views of the garden, light tones being the prevailing colours. Each room (560-750 Euro) has its own sensorial DVD with soothing sounds and images, some of the rooms also offering meditation corners. Bathroom has a large dedicated space, the thick bronze net separating it from the bedroom creating unexpected transparencies. Beyond heavy doors, there are 6 Executive suites and the Bulgari suite. Located on the last floor, it includes an imposing Brera stone fireplace, a three meter deep arcade protecting the completely transparent facade. The bathroom recalls ancient Oriental open-air resort rooms, its outstanding item being a one-piece Bihara Turkish stone tub.
 

When it comes to a Bulgari hotel, entertainment activities must equal the elegance and style displayed throughout the interior.

The restaurant is a delight for senses with its lenticular hanging ceiling and large oval black resin counter overlooking the terrace and the garden. Besides traditional Italian plates, guests can also choose various American and Japanese culinary wonders. A menu of eleven dishes has been created for the bar and the garden, available such as a Club sandwich, caviar and classical „caprese“. Add Iranian caviar, champagne and lobster, tomatoes, fresh fruit „carpaccio“ (for Children’s Menu – 7 dishes). Equally impressive is the choice of wines, most of them from famous regions such as Campania, Sardinia and Sicily. When it comes to fine spirits and elite labels, our pick goes to a Saint James from Antilles rum, dated 1885: 960 Euro per glass! 

True to the hotel’s unrivalled image, the Spa has been conceived as an „urban shelter for mind and soul“. It features a long swimming pool tiled with gold and emerald mosaic, Hamam and outdoor lounge with 5 private rooms for personalized treatments: aromatherapy, reflexology, shiatsu, ayurveda, plus massage techniques from Bali and Hawaii. The Bulgari Hotel „experience“ also includes flights over Lago Maggiore and Como, rally driving school in Monza, private tours of „secret“ villas, luxury car rental or hair and makeup by Monica Coppola. Plus your own personal shopper.