INTERNATIONAL HOTEL OF THE MONTH - Langham Hotel
Address: 1C Portland Place , Regent Street , W1
www.langhamhotels.com
Dating back to 1865 the Langham hotel is one of London 's great old hotels. Due its close proximity to the Chinese Embassy the hotel is very accommodating to and popular with high-ranking Chinese officials and VIPs. Recently renovated and refurbished by Langham Hotels International, the hotel also includes the Chinese-inspired Chuan spa. The Langham is also home to London 's the most luxurious and expensive suite in London . The Infinity Suite, unveiled in January 2005, is one of the very best in London , and at 236 square meters, it is also amongst the largest. It is named after an infinity bath called the 'sok' in the master bathroom. This is an ultra deep bath, which constantly overflows, creating the sound of cascading water. It is designed around the concept of chromatherapy. At the touch of a button, the water moves through a spectrum of eight colours from relaxing to stimulating. Truly lavish.
The Dorchester
Address:
www.dorchesterhotel.com
Dorchester has become a "home away from home" in London for many of the world's Heads of State, celebrities and industry leaders. It is renowned for its excellent service and so it should be with three members of staff per guest. The hotel is excellently located in Mayfair, for those looking to update their garage it is within easy reach of the best car dealerships in London . The hotel underwent major refurbishments in 2003 and all bedrooms are individually decorated in a comfortably luxurious English Country house style. The roof gardens suites are the most exclusive, located on the top floor they are reached by their own private staircases. Sumptuous, spacious and stylish, they have great open-air balconies affording fabulous views across London . For entrepreneurs missing home cuisine, The Dorchester is also home to London 's most expensive Chinese restaurant, China Tang, owned by Shanghai Tang's David Tang. For those wanting a classic British experience, The Dorchester's has been awarded Best Afternoon Tea by the British Tea Council.
Brown's Hotel
Albemarle Street , London W1
www.roccofortehotels.com
Located in the heart of Mayfair, Brown's Hotel looks set to reclaim its position as London 's grande-dame hotel. Founded in 1837 to provide 'genteel' accommodation for discerning people, Brown's has always had an air of exclusivity and refinement. Sophistication and classic English style are the hallmarks of the legendary Brown's Hotel, which joined the Rocco Forte Hotels collection of luxury hotels . The interiors are contemporary and have a real sense of style, while retaining much of their original, quintessentially English elegance.
Claridges
Address: Brook Street , W1
www.claridges.co.uk
Located in Mayfair, with Bond Street , Hyde Park, Covent Garden and the Houses of Parliament all within easy reach, Claridge's enjoys a prime location. The famed Art-Deco building dates back to 1898, and the hotel is one of London 's most renowned. Refurbishments in 1999 brought the hotel bang up to date without spoiling the Art Deco grandeur. Claridge's celebrated afternoon tea rivals the Dorchester's and is the excellent Gordon Ramsey at Claridges restaurant is highly recommended.The hotel offers two excellent penthouse suites with terraces, but Chinese entrepreneurs may prefer the Royal suite with its beautiful 18 th century furniture, all top end suites come with a personal butler service.
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
66 Knightsbridge, SW1
www.mandarin-oriental.com
The Mandarin Oriental has long been recognized as one of London 's top hotels for both business and leisure travel, known for its excellent service and style. The address is one of the most prestigious in London , overlooking the finest Royal Park with wonderful views of the Household Cavalry as they proceed to Buckingham Palace . Ask for a suite on the park side of the hotel to enjoy a great view of this ceremony without stepping outside their door.
The Lanesborough
Hyde Park Corner, SW1
www.lanesborough.com ).
The Lanesborough is a nineteenth-century white-stucco grande dame on Hyde Park Corner within easy reach of Buckingham Palace , Harrods and the exclusive shopping area of Knightsbridge.. Each of the 95 guest rooms and suites is decorated with 1820's furnishings concealing 21st century technology – including clever hidden interactive TVs. Guests can expect butler service (includes complimentary packing/unpacking/pressing on arrival), comprehensive concierge and business services - mobile phones are provided on arrival. Outstanding service.
The Ritz
150 Piccadilly, London , W1
www.theritzhotel.co.uk
Always a favourite with the super-wealthy, the Ritz is a legendary London hotel. Opened in 1906 and restored in 1995, The Ritz name is associated with glamour and sophistication. Rooms are luxuriously furnished with rich fabrics, 24 carat gold leaf and beautifully restored antique furniture in keeping with the original Louis XVI style. Afternoon tea at the Ritz is also a must.
The Savoy
The Strand, London , WC2
www.fairmont.com/savoy/
Located on The Strand in the heart of the West End theatre district, the landmark hotel, which opened in 1889, has 263 rooms and suites with Art Deco touches and views of the river Thames . Facilities include palatial meeting rooms, a fitness centre and the Michelin starred Savoy Grill.
