It was once said that every story written is one of seven basic plots. In thinking about refining the many travel possibilities for the year ahead, here are seven great travel destinations with classic plot lines of their own.
On the Beach: La Samanna
Think winter sunshine on a golden beach with Caribbean waters and French Riviera style. The Resort Hotel is comprised of secluded pool villas and cottages as well as some central hotel suites overlooking a bay. The LaPlaj restaurant is the perfect spot to indulge in a relaxing lunch while taking in the scenery and in the evening, it transforms into La Spiaggia offering a distinctive Italian menu. The L’Oursin restaurant offers elevated French bistronomic fare by acclaimed two Michelin-star Chef, Marcel Ravin.”
Saint Martin, French West Indies
belmond.com
Back to Nature: Chatwal Lodge
Head to the Catskill mountains for that five-star rustic experience on an 18,000-acre private reserve. Peace, quiet and getting back to nature define the experience at the Lodge – which has only 11 rooms, each of which has been exquisitely designed, paying homage to the great Camps built during the gilded age. The main restaurant, The Rustic Grill is headed by Chef Jesse Kloskey providing guests a hyper-seasonal menu which is constantly adjusted to make the most of in-season ingredients.
White Lake, NY
thechatwallodge.com
By the Bay: Four Seasons San Francisco
A city break in one of the most romantic of cities requires a place to stay that lives up to the promise of the city. The Four Seasons San Francisco is situated in the heart of the city with some of its key attractions such as the waterfront and the tram cars being a short walk away. The reputation of San Francisco as the gastronomic capital of the West Coast remains undiminished, and although there are many great options, the hotel restaurant MKT holds its own as a dining destination with windows offering a constant reminder of the beauty of the distinctive cityscape.
San Francisco, California
fourseasons.com/sanfrancisco
Grace and Favor: The Relais Henley Hotel
International Hotel Designer Grace Leo has created her first Relais Retreats Property, The Relais Henley Hotel, in Henley-on-Thames (known for its annual Royal Regatta). A renovation of the Red Lion Hotel (which dates back to the sixteenth century), the Relais Henley builds on an illustrious history, counting among its guests King Charles I, the first Duke of Marlborough and King George III. Dining at the Relais Henley is in The Clipper Restaurant whose menu is designed by Chef Antoinne of Mosimann’s of London.
Henley-on-Thames, United Kingdom
therelaisretreats.com/henley
The Grand Dame: Corinthia, London
London is renowned for its hotels which trip off the tongue in any travel conversation about a visit to the capital. Amongst these establishments, The Corinthia remains the knowing choice of the cognoscenti. Located close to Trafalgar Square off the Embankment, the hotel has lived a varied life, at one time a defense establishment which was home to the military and intelligence agencies. Today the Corinthia is home to Michelin Chef Tom Kerridge’s Kerridge’s Bar & Grill and Chef Andre Garrett’s The Northall. The new Velvet Champagne Bar and afternoon tea in the Crystal Moon lounge round out the comprehensive food and beverage options. Espa Life at the Corinthia brings a Daniel Galvin Hair Salon and Spa onto the property making the Corinthia the London home you yearn for.
Whitehall Place, London
corinthia.com/london
Asian Original: Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong
See one of Asia’s most unique cities blending east and west at the first and arguably best Mandarin Oriental in the World. The writings of James Clavell seem to come to life and the flagship hotel has views of Victoria Bay and the Hong Kong skyline, as well as nine restaurants and bars, two of which are Michelin rated. The breakfast at this hotel blends East and West and is quite possibly the finest offered in the region. A spa, hair salon and barber shop round out the qualities which make this property the ideal base from which to explore this vibrant city.
Central Hong Kong, China
mandarinoriental.com
The English Aboard: The Maybourne Beverly Hills
Although many time zones away from London, the culture has made the journey intact to Los Angeles, bringing an approach to guest service from its sister properties Claridges, the Connaught and Berkeley hotels in London. Located next to Rodeo Drive, the Terrace is their outdoor restaurant with views overlooking Beverly Canon Gardens. Tables situated amongst the garden around the fountains transport you away from the busy streets of LA to a European sanctuary.
Beverly Hills, California
maybournebeverlyhills.com
