The winning photo…
Hi all,
In a recent survey asking people what they would save first if their house was on fire, photograph albums came top of the list after family and pets. Photography when travelling is essential for capturing our precious memories of people, places, food and culture and when packing, taking a camera is now as important as remembering your passport and ticket!
Whilst reviewing all the imaginative itineraries submitted for our Dream Itinerary contest, we had the daunting task of selecting a winner from over 2,000 photographs capturing moments from every country of the world. We poured over stunning shots of vivid tropical sunsets, postcard-perfect beaches, vibrant city markets, dramatic underwater seascapes and crumbling ancient sites to describe just a small selection. Many images captured family and friends during those special holiday moments that we remember for a lifetime – indulging in gourmet feasts, trying daredevil sports, encountering exotic local wildlife, making new friends or simply relaxing together in new environments.
Our overall winner was Mr Christian Schmidt of Germany who submitted a ‘Natural Indulgence’ itinerary with a supporting image of a stunning lake in the Swiss Alps with a mountain backdrop reflected perfectly on the surface. His itinerary described his dream journey to capture similar views in New Zealand, Costa Rica and the Seychelles.
Winning photo - stunning lake in the Swiss Alps with a mountain backdrop
Our runner up was Mrs Marie-Ange Ostre of France with her breath-taking photo of someone abseiling down a glacier. She also described other adventures she had planned in Mongolia, the Philippines and Malaysia.
Again, I would like to thank everyone who took part in the competition – it was a privilege to view your holiday memories.
More soon,
Paul
A wine lover’s dream: The Inn at Southbridge, Napa Valley, USA
Hello all,
Some of you are probably planning your next holiday. Over the next couple of weeks I hope I can provide you with some ideas of places to stay and things to visit.
If you’re thinking of taking a holiday in the USA this year, why not visit Napa Valley in California? Napa Valley is one of the top travel destinations in the world, famous for its wine and vineyards, nestled in the beautiful rolling hillsides, and world-class restaurants.
If you decide to take a vacation in the famous wine country, I recommend a stay at SLH hotel, The Inn at Southbridge. This luxury hotel is the perfect spot for touring Napa. You’ll be spoilt for choice after an enjoyable wine tour, followed by tucking into a hearty meal at a gourmet restaurant. The hotel is very close by to the vineyards and restaurants so you won’t have to drive. It’s also walking distance to downtown St. Helena where you’ll find plenty of galleries and boutiques.
The Inn At Southbridge - rooms with a delightful view
As well as an excellent location, the hotel itself is a charming building, located in beautiful gardens. You’ll be welcomed by the wonderful staff. The bedrooms are spacious and individually styled and each facing wonderful views. There’s also a health spa if you want to lay off the wine for a day or two! I’ve been told you can enjoy a relaxing head massage in the sunny garden spa for peace and relaxation. You can also try a spot of golf, horse riding, cycling, and hiking out and about this hotel.
So who’s this hotel perfect for? The Inn at Southbridge is the dream place if you enjoy great wine and food. It’s also ideal for a couple’s getaway, spa lovers and overall a place to escape from it all.
Are you a SLH Club member? Why not take advantage of the special offers on slh.com with great Club benefits. Once again, do let me know if you plan to stay at this hotel.
More later, Paul
The Betsy and Esencia – Luxury Hotels with the SLH factor!
It was all happening in the UK last week, wasn’t it? A change of government, more volcanic ash disruption and signs of a major airline strike. Whatever next?
Thousands of miles away from the UK, the team and I visited the Small Luxury Hotels of the World in the Americas for our annual regional meeting. It was great seeing them all. During my stay I visited The Betsy, in Miami, USA and Esencia in Playa del Carmen, Mexico and The Pillars at New River Sound in Fort Lauderdale, USA. I must say that although all of these three hotels are totally different, they all have the SLH factor! If you’re planning to stay at either of these properties you’ll be left positively glowing, making your holiday a memorable one.
A peaceful hideaway - The Pillars at New River Sound, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
The meeting was held at the Betsy but to get over the jet lag – some of the team stayed at the “Pillars” – it has a great feel about the hotel – truly a “home from home.” Wonderfully located literally minutes from the beach and right in the heart of the “BUZZ” but also a tranquil setting on the inner water way. The owner Michael Landry gave us a superb evening cruise with cocktails exploring the inner waterways of Fort Lauderdale. The boat is for hire at the hotel and I thoroughly recommend the experience. I also hired a bike for one day, which although hot was a great way to combine some sightseeing and exercise!
The Betsy - the beach on your doorstep
The Betsy is a fabulous boutique hotel and an iconic landmark on Miami’s famous Ocean Drive. First opening its doors in 1942, The Betsy has an amazing historical background, which explains its architectural features both past and present amongst its art deco neighbours. This luxury property has sixty-two bedrooms to choose from and are all individually furnished. Eating at their renowned BLT restaurant is pure steakhouse bliss. You can look forward to the beach, which is literally on your doorstep. Also, the views from the Rooftop Solarium and Wellness Garden are stunning where the hotel entertained all of the other SLH hotels in the region for a few “drinks”!
One of Esencia's super comfy bedrooms
My next stop was at the SLH hotel Esencia in Mexico…this property was incredible. I can see why it’s such a popular choice amongst guests. If being pampered is your thing, then the Escencia spa experience is world-class. The warm and friendly staff will make you feel instantly at home in this luscious 50-acre estate. There are plenty of things to do: if you don’t want to venture far they offer yoga, scuba diving, wind surfing. And for a more educational experience you can learn how to cook the Meso-American cuisine or sample a variety of wines with the head chef. Once again, the beaches are beautiful in this part of the world.
I could blog all day about how amazing these luxury hotels are but I’d be ruining the surprise if I revealed all! Are any of you planning a stay at a SLH hotel soon? What are your plans for the summer? Let me know.
More later, Paul
An Ex-sail-lent Time in Palma, Mallorca
Hi there,
A very Happy New Year to you all! I’ve just come back from a sailing trip and I must say I had an ex-sail-lent time with the family.
On our trip I stopped off in sunny Palma, Mallorca, a truly beautiful Spanish island. There’s a large sailing community so this town naturally appeals to me. Palma is renowned for its stunning sunsets, its history and it’s Spanish cosmopolitan society.
On land there are plenty of things to see and do. The narrow lanes and cobbled streets of this medieval town give a historic contrast to a typical urban sprawl. Tucked away are some charming cafes and an abundance of restaurants and tapas bars.
In the heart of the old town, we stopped at Hotel Tres. This luxurious hotel is cool and relaxing and a great location for getting out and about in Palma. You’ll be in for a treat if you’re planning a stay there this year!
Take a sauna, then plunge into the rooftop pool with views over the Gothic cathedral.
Hotel Tres has a contemporary look and feel and maintains it’s rustic Mallorcan charm and history as part of a 16th century palace. If you opt for the Grand Suite you’ll have your own rooftop terrace, complete with a Jacuzzi and a sensational view facing Palma cathedral.
Palma is a wonderful place to spend your holiday, and Hotel Tres is definitely one to add to your wish list. Have you visited Palma? Or stayed at Hotel Tres? Do let me know.
More later, Paul
Special Treats from Windsor Arms Hotel….
The Tea Room for traditional afternoon tea
‘I’ll be right back with your chocolate-covered strawberries,’ said the butler. Ten minutes later, there he was, with a small plate of two perfect berries. Every night, guests at the Windsor Arms Hotel are surprised with a different treat at turndown! There are no mints on your pillow here! It’s a wonderful treat whilst you’re curled up in bed, basking in the most delicious aroma that can be smelled throughout the hotel.
Into the candlelit lobby the next night, to our delight we returned to a warm suite with a beautifully decorated plate of biscotti, adorned by a picture of a wine glass, made of chocolate.
It’s not just the special evening treats which makes this small luxury hotel of the world memorable. Windsor Arms Hotel is an ode of neo-Gothic architecture. Set in the heart of Toronto’s cultural centre amongst the city’s oldest buildings, this charming hotel offers spacious suites, elegant dining and superb spa facilities… fit for a King or Queen! How about a dip by the fireside indoor pool? After a hard day of shopping in the hub of Yorkville at the designer boutiques, and pottering around the museums and art galleries, this is a perfect place to unwind, relax and put your feet up!
During your stay you must experience afternoon tea or dine at Prime, a steakhouse that is a popular choice of the locals. Tea at the Windsor Arms has been a complete afternoon of indulgence for guests. There’s a selection of teas from Russian Caravan to Sencha to a delightful range of yummy sandwiches and seductive-handmade pastries… you can even select the tea room that best suits you! Choose from the purple room, swathed with deep purple valances or a more traditional French-style setting. Regardless of what you choose, high tea here will certainly be experience to remember!
There is so much this charming hotel offers and is perfect for both business or pleasure. Have you been to this luxury hotel? Get in touch and let us know.
