#hotel mayfair gardens

[wellourgerdes]

1 hotel mayfair

1 Hotel Mayfair London The 1 Hotel Mayfair is located in London’s top hotel sector on the crossroads of Piccadilly and Berkeley Street. The place is masterclass in sophisticated, stylish and clean sustainability in the heart of London just a few steps from London’s famous Green Park. Walking distance from Green Park, Regent Street, and the glitz of the West End. In order to reduce its…

[ktkellart]

Good Omens London Trip 🐍💞🪽

It's my Birthday today and I treated myself to a trip to London last weekend to see my favourite actor Michael Sheen in Nye at the National Theatre. I made the most of my weekend by combining it with a Good Omens filming location self-tour and I'd love to share it with you all. So, are you ready for the tour?

Here we go!

Starting off with Soho, and the inspiration for Whickber Street, where Aziraphale's bookshop, Give Me Coffee or Give Me Death, The Small Back Room, and the Dirty Donkey are located.

It’s Berwick Street and a record shop that is very similar in shape to A.Z Fell & Co. Bonus points for spotting Duck Lane!

Next is Berkeley Square, a short walk from Soho. The first two photos are of the real Berkeley Square gardens in Mayfair, and the last two photos were taken in the filming location of Tavistock Square across the other side of central London near Kings Cross. I’m sitting on their ‘body swap’ bench in the last photo!

As you can see, the benches are turned around facing inwards now but are the other way, facing outwards in Good Omens.

Oh, and I can confirm that there were no nightingales singing in either location 😭

Heading up the road a few minutes from Tavistock Square to The Enterprise pub where I met a fellow fan who kindly took photos of me posing (I bet the staff thought we were off our rockers!). This is where Crowley drowns his sorrows in Talisker Whisky whilst waiting for the world to end after thinking he'd lost Aziraphale. Omg that poor poor demon, he was really just gonna die along with the world.

Also, one of my favourite moments of season 1 is Crolwey's line: "I heard that. It was the wiggle-on..." then shrugs. 😆 So many emotions in such short a time.

Onto the Ritz. The first two photos are of the real Ritz (a stone's throw from Berkeley Square) and the last one is inside Masala Zone in Piccadilly Circus where the ‘Quite extraordinary amounts of alcohol’ and ‘To the World’ scenes were filmed.

I ate in here alone to get the photo and was so lucky with the table I was given! Perfect discreet snap whilst eating my curry! Haha!

Next up is Battersea Park and the Bandstand. It was a bit of a faff to get there, it's an 8-minute walk from the Battersea Power Station underground and we walked the full length of the park to find the Bandstand, but it was so worth it.

Also filmed here was Gabriel and Aziraphale’s run/jog. Poor Angel is soft scene.

The trees were a little leafier with it being mid-May and the park was very busy because the weather was glorious. They also have a beautiful lake here with herons!

The Heaven & Hell staircase escalators are right over the east side of London in Broadgate Tower, Bishopsgate. I got the overground to Liverpool Street station to get there. It is in a private business building so I politely/awkwardly asked the receptionist if I could take a photo and had to explain about the scene from Good Omens… eek! But he kindly let me snap a photo anyway! (Phew)

The Windmill Theatre was three minutes away from my hotel in Piccadilly Circus, so I wandered up the road to take a photo of where Aziraphale ‘performed on the West End stage’ as Fell the Marvelous. And wasn’t he just?

The scenes weren't filmed here but it was fun to find it anyway.

St James’s Park is up next! I sat on their bench and got my friend to take photos of me posing and had fun editing the first photo. Haha! We enjoyed walking through the park, watching the ducks on the lake and had a nosey at Buckingham Palace while we were there.

The Duke of York Statue steps are at the other end of St James's Park and were fun to walk up. I smiled to myself as I thought of the scene where Crowley says ‘Well let's have lunch? Hmm,’ and Aziraphale turns around, as it was the first time I realised that these two were more than just friends.

Heaven’s top floor, the Sky Garden in Fenchurch Street near Monument is a very tall building with a botanical garden on the top floor. You can visit the sky garden for free, but you do need to book in advance so it’s best to plan ahead for this one. The views of London are breathtaking from the 35th floor and the tropical plants are fun.

My last stop for this visit was Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. I booked a tour on the morning I was due to go home. The first tour is 10 am and lasts an hour, so I dashed off as soon as the tour guide was uttering his last words about the gift shop, across London back to Kings Cross to pick up my suitcase from luggage storage and get the 11:48 am train home!

One I missed and could have easily gone to is St Margaret Street where Newton and Shadwell meet, and Shadwell fleeces Newton for a cup of tea with nine sugars and pockets the change. A bit gutted I missed it to be honest – I love Jack Whitehall (I’m back in London with the family in June so I’ll swing by and update then!)

There are also some other locations a little further afield that I might try to visit on a later date, such as Shadwell's and Madam Tracy's flat down Hornsey Road in Islington, Crowley's Flat exterior in Eastfields Avenue, Best Cafe on Garratt Lane where Crowley meets Shadwell, Crystal Palace Dinosaur Park where the ineffable husbands watch Warlock defacing a dinosaur sign and Antonella's Cafe and Bistro where Crowley and Aziraphale are thinking of ideas to track down the antichrist whist Aziraphale eats cake.

Okay, I’m gonna finish up with the man himself. The very kind, very charming, and VERY patient Michael Sheen The reason for my London visit in the first place. Nye was spectacular OBviOUsLy, but he was super generous with his time at stage door for us all. I got a hug and asked him to pass it on to Aziraphale (that angel really needs a hug) and it made him laugh, which made my night!

Check out my reblog for extra locations when I visited London again a month later, and for a hilarious bonus photo of.... Gabriel??!

Here’s the wonderful map I used -

from this website:

[citizenscreen]

Romancing at the garden party of the film colony's Mayfair Club at the Beverly Wilshire hotel, are colonyites Mary Brian and Cary Grant. (1936 caption)

[rosielefay]

USUK ʚɞ

America and England in the country club, at the ballet, dining at the top restaurants of Mayfair and Manhattan. Always busy, eternally working. The two would rarely stray too far from their economic centres. The phone never more than a reach away, the work laptops present every vacation. And they're taking calls every second of the day, rarely can one converse with them without an interruption, some important business going on half a world away.

Yet England is very old, and like all of Europe, decaying a bit. Like an old cat, he'll go away quietly to die, disappearing for weeks to sit in his old country manor alone. Being with America and the city, it makes him feel alive, but there are times when the centuries catch up and the fatigue sets in. America will visit: he'll boil kettles and put the bbc ballet on and feed the cats and water the flowers - he'll love a ghost for a little bit.

Then it's back to the opera hall, private jets, the conferences, the reports. The making out in meeting rooms and silk ties and cotton shirts all over the hotel rooms - Washington, London, Paris, Tokyo. So much money and lust and greed and each other, only ever each other.

Then its back to the dark hallways of the old house: the cobwebs, the mould, the family portraits; pale skin and dry eyes, grey under the cheeks and clouds over the iris. The garden flourishes, France sends a bouquet, the black cashmere jumpers and dark slacks hold off the cold. It is hard, sometimes, loving a dead thing.

But eventually the markets go up and a breath is taken, and its back to hotel rooms, white powder on the desk and clothes on the floor and the headboard is banging and the phone is ringing and ringing.

[hannahsliteraryhaven]

My 2024 Year in Review

꒰ ͜͡➸ Goals

☑ read 40 books (43/40)

☐ complete a storygraph reading challenge (0/1)

☑ read at least 3 books from the 1001 list (5/3) 📚

✏️= Advanced Reader Copy

꒰ ͜͡➸ Monthly

➳ January

⋆ Bury my heart at wounded knee | 4

⋆ The league of lady poisoners | 5

⋆ The Yellow Wallpaper (short story) | 3

➳ February

⋆ A mother's reckoning | 4

⋆ Overcoming low self esteem | 4

⋆ Mermaids: the myths, legends and lore | 3

⋆ Miracle in the Andes | 5

⋆ The book that wouldn't burn | 4.75

⋆ Overdue | 5

⋆ The lady maid's bell (short story) | 2

➳ March

⋆ Killers of the flower moon | 5

⋆ Greenwood | 4

⋆ The woman in me | -

⋆ Burden | 4.5

⋆ Incel | 3.5

⋆ What moves the dead | 4.5

⋆ Mars is Heaven (short story) | 5

➳ April

⋆ Brother | 3

⋆ The Dark Violinist | 4 ✏️

⋆ The Picture of Dorian Gray | 4.25 📚

⋆ A Stolen Life | -

➳ May

⋆ To Kill a Mockingbird | 5

⋆ The Mangler (short story) | 4

⋆ Annie John | 4 📚

⋆ Snow Flower & The Secret Fan | 4

➳ June

⋆ The Catcher in the Rye | 3 📚

⋆ The Edge of the Woods | 4

⋆ Murder at the Mayfair Hotel | 5

➳ July

⋆ The Butterfly Garden | 4.5

➳ August

⋆ The Book That Broke The World | 5

⋆ The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle | 4 📚

➳ September

The Blind Owl | 3.5 📚

The Only Good Indian | 2.5

Free Will Explained | 3

The Gift of Fear | 4.5

The Bullet Swallower | 5

➳ October

The Dark Creator | 4.5 ✏️

The Bell Jar |

➳ November

➳ December

꒰ ͜͡➸ End of year stats

no. of books total:

no. of DNF:

2024 fave:

2024 hate:

𓆩*𓆪𓆩*𓆪𓆩*𓆪𓆩*𓆪𓆩*𓆪𓆩*𓆪𓆩*𓆪𓆩*𓆪

[thisdancingheart]

I went to the icky DM website so you don’t have to. No one should give them clicks unless absolutely necessary. 

Benedict Cumberbatch's knife raid terror: Ranting armed man kicked his way into ��3.5m London home leaving his family fearing for their lives as he screamed 'I know you've moved here'

Jack Bissell kicked his way through iron gate at the actor's £3.5m London house

Cumberbatch, wife Sophie and their three young children were in the home

By GEORGE ODLING PUBLISHED: 12:01 EDT, 29 May 2023 | UPDATED: 14:37 EDT, 29 May 2023

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12136503/Chef-launches-attack-Benedict-Cumberbatchs-3-5m-London-home.html

Benedict Cumberbatch and his family were left fearing for their lives when a former chef at a luxury hotel launched a ranting knife attack at the star's home.

Jack Bissell, 35, kicked his way through the front garden's iron gate at the actor's £3.5million house in north London, ripped the intercom off the wall and made a series of terrifying threats.

Bissell, who has not explained his outburst, was shouting: 'I know you've moved here, I hope it burns down,' a court heard.

Cumberbatch, 46, his wife Sophie Hunter, 45, and their three young children were in the home at the time and could hear Bissell smashing into the garden and screaming abuse.

The former chef de partie at the five-star Beaumont Hotel in Mayfair then pulled out one of the family's plants and threw it at the garden wall, spat at the intercom and prised it loose using a fish knife.

A source said: 'Naturally all of the family were absolutely terrified and thought this guy was going to get in and hurt them.

'Luckily it never went that far. Benedict and Sophie have had many sleepless nights since worrying that they may be targeted again.

'The fact that it was a targeted intrusion makes it a lot more scary.'

Bissell fled the scene but was arrested after police found his DNA on the intercom.

He admitted criminal damage at Wood Green Crown Court earlier this month, was fined £250 and a given a three-year restraining order banning him from approaching the Cumberbatch family and the area in which they live.

Prosecutors said that before targeting the Sherlock star's home, Bissell bought two packets of pitta bread from a shop nearby and shouted to the shopkeeper that he was going to break into Cumberbatch's house and burn it to the ground.

It is not clear why Bissell targeted the Oscar nominee. He offered no defence in court.

He pleaded guilty and was sentenced on May 10 but details of the case could not be reported until the Mail successfully challenged blanket reporting restrictions this week.

Cumberbatch bought his five-bedroom home in 2015.

Bissell, who in 2015 was photographed being arrested in his underpants during a central London protest against military intervention in Syria, worked at the Beaumont for two spells in 2017-2018 and 2019-2020.

The chef, from Kentish Town, north London, claims on his LinkedIn profile to have created a dish that still remains on the restaurant's menu.

He has a previous conviction for theft, three warnings for offences against property, a public order offence and a drug offence.

The hotel was contacted for comment.

[ronnie-wood]

posting a 2008 ronnie interview here bc why not viva la information

full article under the cut! this was around 2008 when he was 61 and had an art exhibition, based on artworks he made in his studio in ireland

it's a REALLY interesting interview, and i'm glad i saved it a long time ago :D

a warning for discussions of alcoholism though! u__u i sort of understand bc some of his drinking was motivated by grief when he was young, his girlfriend got killed when he was traveling to a gig

Originally from the Financial Times: Lunch with FT: Ronnie Wood July 19, 2008 1:45 am by Rob Blackhurst Keith Richards once said, “If you are going to get wasted, then get wasted elegantly.” At 61, his fellow Stones guitarist, Ronnie Wood, embodies this louche creed. As he arrives in the reception of Dublin’s elegant Shelbourne Hotel for lunch, cutting a path through huddles of overly nourished politicians and businessmen, he’s dressed in the same size of super-skinny jeans, 28 waist, that he’s been wearing for the past 30 years, a pair of space boots that may once have belonged on an alligator’s back and a tight black shirt undone to the chest: the fruits of a trip to Prada before his daughter Leah’s wedding last month. But, even from 50 paces, it’s the luxuriant crow-black head of hair, flecked with only the tiniest hint of grey, that really marks him out as a Rolling Stone. As he greets me with a warm handshake and naughty, liquorice eyes, he says: “I don’t dye it either.” Alluding to his equally thin bandmates, he adds: “We’re all the same build, as well. It’s a good thing I didn’t join Fleetwood Mac.” We take our place in a booth in the newly refurbished Saddle Room, which is all mirrors and velvet and upholstered in a garish shade that might be described as boudoir gold. Wood squints uncomfortably. “Christ, it looks like Rod Stewart’s trousers,” he says.

The Shelbourne is Wood’s favourite Dublin haunt. “I’ve a good old affiliation with this hotel,” he says. “When we played the Point Depot five years ago we were based here. It was like the Stones coming home to my town.” Wood has lived in Dublin on and off since the early 1990s, when he bought a second home in the southern suburb of Sandymount, searching for a sanctuary for his art and music, and shelter from the British exchequer. He transformed the cow byre into recording studios and the stables into a personal pub called “Yer Father’s Yacht”. It seems a dangerous place for a fitfully recovering alcoholic like Wood; there are 20 more pubs within a square mile of his front door. He looks at the menu reluctantly: “I’m not really hungry at all,” he says. Eventually we opt for 12 oysters from County Clare followed by the seafood platter to share. Nothing stronger than caffeine is ordered, though Wood is going through another well-publicised bout of heavy drinking. “A friend came over last night – I hadn’t seen him for years. We had a few drinks. It ended up being seven in the morning.”

Though he has been woken up for the interview only an hour earlier, Wood is lucid and charming, especially when an espresso arrives to kick-start the conversation. I mention his latest art exhibition, Ireland Studio, a six-week show at his Scream gallery in Mayfair. The exhibition features paintings and pen-and-inks produced – mostly through the night – at his Irish pile over the past 10 years. Free of tour commitments – this year the Stones are on sabbatical after two and a half years on the road – he has been able to spend more time in Ireland with his two Great Danes.

Wood’s interest in art dates back to the early 1960s, when he was a student at Ealing Art College, but he took it up commercially for “grocery money” in the mid-1980s when he had blown a considerable portion of his Stones money on a cocktail of drugs and comically disastrous managers. He flicks through a pile of prints of the front garden of the Priory Clinic, where he has been a regular in-patient; moonscapes from the west of Ireland at night; and horses racing on the Irish turf. Sir Peter Blake and Lucian Freud are among fans of his art: “He [Freud] told Mick [Jagger] that he loves my landscapes. That’s a compliment, from the greatest living artist.” Tracey Emin is a friend: “She’s like my aunt. She rings me up every day to ask how I’m doing.” He pauses and confides mischievously: “Tracey thinks she can draw.”

Most of his collectors are Stones fans in the US: “The leading cancer-curing doctor in Florida – much to his wife’s chagrin – spends most of his money on my paintings. She says: ‘Oh, please don’t sell the house and buy another Ronnie painting!’ Though his portrait of the Stones in a Jacobean interior, “Beggars’ Banquet”, sold in 2005 to a private collector for $1m, he is pricing his Irish landscapes at between £10,000 and £50,000. Deals, he makes clear, can be struck.

Wood has become a kind of official portraitist to the court of celebrity over the past decade – ever since Andrew Lloyd Webber commissioned him to paint the famous patrons of the restaurant The Ivy in the early noughties. Now a Ronnie Wood sitting has become as much a signifier of the upper reaches of stardom as a Hello! wedding deal. His waiting list includes the Stones-mad French president, Nicolas Sarkozy: “I met him and Gordon Brown and he was desperately trying to put me on the phone with Carla Bruni. There are all these people like Scorsese, Clinton, Beckham...” but he trails off, as if bored of the fame whirligig: “I’m trying to get away from the commissions so that I can do what I want,” he says. “This new exhibition is more the stuff that I want to do – landscapes, dogs, horses.” The plate of oysters arrives. Wood is a fan of their nutritional properties. “They’ve got everything you need – all the vitamins and minerals. They keep the zinc up,” he says with a mock leer. Discussion moves to his other day job. I ask whether age has calmed Richards who, Wood recalled in his autobiography, used to hold an arsenal of guns and knives that would be drawn during band frictions. “It’s still on the verge, you know,” he deadpans. “Murder is still quite an easy option. You have to be on your toes all the time.” Nevertheless, Wood is more appreciated now by his fellow Stones than he was when he left the Faces to join them in 1975. For years, as a latecomer who joined when the band had already made their fortune, he had to negotiate his fee on a rising scale for every tour and album. “There was a 17-year apprenticeship,” he says. “Charlie and Bill stood up for me. Nice of them to do that, because they could have carried on looking the other way. I’m part of the empire, finally.” In spite of the Strolling Bones jibes, he thinks the Stones have never sounded better in their 45-year history than they did on the final dates of their tour at the O2 arena last August. He says there’s “talk in the air” of another tour next year.

It must feel odd, I say, to go from playing in front of a crowd of a million in Rio to sitting at home. He becomes melancholic. “I’m more lost when I’m not on tour. I’m in a bit of a muddle at nine o’clock – ‘Where’s the stage?’ On tour there are people directing and supervising you. And then when you finish it’s like, ‘Sit down and watch TV.’ Sometimes I get so bored I think I’ll have a drink. I don’t mean any harm but I just go off the rails.” He points out, however, that he did manage to catch himself last month when he checked in for treatment ahead of his daughter Leah’s wedding so that he didn’t miss the big day. A torrent of alcohol runs through Wood’s life. His account of his upbringing in a council house in Middlesex, the third son of “water gypsies” who had left their barges for dry land, sounds like a preparatory school for a career in rock ‘n’ roll. His father, Archie, played in a 24-piece harmonica band that toured the racetracks of England. At home, there were weekend singalongs around the piano that got so boisterous that a crack appeared in the middle of the house. When the family lawn was dug up 1,700 Guinness bottles were discovered. This may sound impossibly romantic, but his relationship with drink turned darker when, while he was still a teenager, his girlfriend was killed travelling to one of his first gigs: “When Stephanie got killed I sort of drowned my sorrows,” he tells me, “and I suppose I’ve never looked back since.” Does he worry about his own health? He’s dismissive: “Here I am at 61 and I’ve never felt better. I’ve never had a cleaner bill of health. I was just in the Mayr Clinic in Austria. They said, ‘We want to use you as an example of how we want people to end up.’ They said I had the body of a 40-year-old.”

As our seafood platter arrives, Wood dips straight into the crab claws. “These are really cool. I don’t know which sauce you put on them.” As he plumps for the shallots and vinegar, the conversation turns to Jimi Hendrix, with whom he shared a flat for six months in the late 1960s. “He didn’t think he was any good as a singer. I used to say, ‘Don’t worry about that voice.’ He used to obliterate real life by being stoned all the time – and he couldn’t handle it. He didn’t realise how good he was.” His last memory of seeing Hendrix alive, the night before he died in 1970, is haunting. “He was leaving Ronnie Scott’s [jazz club]. He had his arm around a girl and he looked really sad. I went out after him and said, ‘Jimi, you didn’t say goodnight.’”

I try to lighten the mood by asking about the Wood clan – who all seem to have found jobs in the family business. He married Jo, a former model, 23 years ago after splitting with his first wife Krissie, another model. Jo is on the Stones payroll as his dresser and assistant on tour, in between running her organic beauty products business. His stepson Jamie is his manager, and his youngest son Tyrone is curating Wood’s latest exhibition at Scream.

The “Little Red Rooster” ringtone on Wood’s phone sounds. He seems agitated. The call brings news, he says, of The Sun door-stepping his home in Kingston, south-west London. A few days after our lunch I realise that he had been given news that the paper was about to write a story about how during the week of our meeting, he was holed up with a young Russian waitress. Whatever domestic earthquakes are going on in the background, he returns quickly to conviviality, suggesting we finish lunch with a drink elsewhere. Though he is great company, it’s something of a relief when his PR appears to steer him to his next engagement and saves me from making the decision. As we leave the hotel, the kitchen staff lift their ladles and knives in salute, out on the street car horns honk, and Wood poses for an endless round of photos with passers-by, loving every second of it. “That’s always been a big problem with me,” he says with a grin that fades to exasperation: “I find it hard to get old and hard to say no.”

‘Ireland Studio’ is at Scream, 34 Bruton Street, London W1 until August 17; www.screamlondon.com The Saddle Room The Shelbourne Hotel, St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2 12 x Clare Atlantic oysters €33.00 1 x Seafood platter €44.00 3 x Espresso 13.50 Total €90.50

[beardedmrbean]

Actor Benedict Cumberbatch's home in London was attacked and damaged by a former chef wielding a fish knife.

Cumberbatch, his wife and their three children were at home when Jack Bissell, 35, kicked through the front garden's iron gate.

He shouted: "I know you've moved here, I hope it burns down," a court was told earlier this month.

Bissell pleaded guilty to criminal damage at Wood Green Crown Court on 10 May and was fined £250.

He was also given a three-year restraining order preventing him going near Cumberbatch's family and the area they live in.

Details of the case were prevented from being reported until blanket restrictions were successfully challenged by the Daily Mail this week.

Bissell, who previously worked as a chef at a Mayfair hotel until 2020, pulled up a plant and threw it at the garden wall before spitting at the intercom and tearing it loose using a fish knife, the court was told.

He fled the scene but was arrested after his DNA was found on the intercom, according to reports.

A source close to Cumberbatch told the Daily Mail: "Naturally all of the family were absolutely terrified and thought this guy was going to get in and hurt them.

"Luckily it never went that far. Benedict and Sophie have had many sleepless nights since worrying that they may be targeted again."

The prosecution told the court that prior to his attack, Bissell bought two packs of pitta bread from a nearby shop and told the shopkeeper he was going to break in and burn down the house.

It is not clear why Bissell targeted Cumberbatch and he offered no defence in court.

He has a previous conviction for theft, three warnings for offences against property, a public order offence and a drug offence. In 2015, he was photographed being arrested during protests against military intervention in Syria in central London.

[wanderlandgracie]

LONDON

Hello friends! So beginning my trip to Europe, we landed in London at 12:30ish on May 23, 2023. After the unfathomably long plane ride, which I thankfully slept through, we were all exhausted, yet hopeful for the weeks ahead of us. The rest of that day was spent resting and mingling in the hotel.

The next day, we went to Hyde Park, a beautiful expanse of green space much like Central Park in New York City, although much older and history-rich. With its sprawling green and luscious plant life, the park was originally used as a hunting reserve by King Henry VIII, yes that one. Interestingly enough though, James I opened it to the public in the early 17th century, and since then it has been a sight of great popularity in London. One location of particular interest in the park is Speakers Corner, a set apart bit of the park specifically designated, by parliament, for free speech. Since its designation in 1872 due to a forceful takeover of the park by a men's suffrage group, the corner has been used by many free speakers in an attempt to rally change amongst the masses. In the early 1900's suffragettes used the corner as their place of protest. Since its designation many orators, such as Karl Marx, Vladimir Lenin, and George Orwell have used the corner to speak their thoughts. This sight has such specific value because it continues to hold captive peoples attention and birth reform where it is most needed. Also an interesting place to visit in the park is the Rose Garden, a beautiful, as the name would suggest, rose garden. The garden has a wide variety of flowers and plant life, and it is absolutely stunning to look at.

Westminster Abbey is another place I had the privilege to explore when in London. With its sprawling architecture and truly astounding number of graves, Westminster Abbey is set apart as one of the most beautiful and most disturbing buildings in London. Impressively, the Abbey is the final resting place to over 3000 native britons, but despite this, the Abbey has been the location of many coronations in the country's long history. "Since William the Conqueror in 1066, every British Sovereign has been crowned in the Abbey except for Edward V and Edward VIII, who were never crowned." (Britannica) For literally just under a millenium, british kings and queens have begun their official reign here. Also cool to note, royal weddings have been held in the abbey, the most recent of which was the marriage of William and Kate, the Prince and Princess of Wales in 2011. On an entirely different note, the Abbey is the final resting place of over 3,000 native britons, including William Shakespeare, C. S. Lewis, and Jane Austen. This fact seems super cool until you realise that the majority of the graves are part of the floor, requiring you to walk over them to get around the massive Abbey. Apart from the staggering number of graves in the Abbey, it is also home to beautiful stained-glass windows, most of which picture apostles, saints, or the Savior Himself. Westminster Abbey and its beautifully detailed architecture has been integral to the culture, society, and rulers of the United Kingdom for almost a thousand years, and it continues to have such significance in culture as well as religion. Christian worship has been held here for as long as the building has stood, and even today as people are touring the Abbey, occasionally a priest will come on the intercom and ask people to be still and silent while they pray. It is a holy place of solemn worship, even today.

The final culturally significant location I visited was Big Ben and the House of Parliament. Just from an outside look, which is all the looks we got to have, the gothic-style spires and towers of the House of Parliament are one of the more eye-catching buildings in London, as it has been since its construction in the 11th century for Edward the Confessor. It was then expanded by William the Conqueror shortly thereafter. The building had been previously used as a palace until a fire in 1834, after which the palace was rebuilt in its current gothic style. Inside, the House of Lords and the House of Commons meet and make decisions for the country, which is why when we visited these buildings, there were small yet loud groups of protestors standing outside of it. Accompanying the House of Parliament is the famous, iconic, beautiful, Elizabeth's tower. Now you might be thinking, "wait, isn't it called 'Big Ben?'" No, dear reader, you silly goose, you. Big Ben refers to the bell inside of the tower, which is well known for its accuracy and loud toll on the hour, as most bells are. Elizabeth's Tower, and subsequently Big Ben, have been iconic structures seen in British centric pop-culture for ages, such as Peter Pan, V for Vendetta, and Enola Holmes. Overall, these two iconic buildings have been amongst the most recognizable buildings in all of history, but not only that, they have been the center of political circuits for generations.

Overall, London was a beautiful whirlwind of history and awe, combined with the pure wonder of being able to walk or take public transit wherever you wanted to go. All these factors combined makes this city one of my top favorites of the trip.

[mayfairlakeresort]

Best 5 Star Luxury Hotels in Raipur, Chhattisgarh near Airport for Destination Marriage

Plan Your Destination Wedding in Style at Mayfair Lake Resort Raipur - The Best 5 Star Luxury Hotel in Raipur, Chhattisgarh near the airport. Our charming resort offers exquisite rooms, stunning lake views, landscaped gardens, and bespoke services to create dream-like memories. Come celebrate the most special day of your life amidst a luxurious setting and indulge your guests with diverse cuisines, engaging entertainment options, and personalized services that make your experience unforgettable. For more details visit: https://www.mayfairhotels.com/raipur.php

[mayfairtearesort]

Discover a perfect blend of luxury and heritage at Mayfair Tea Resort, the finest hotel in Siliguri. Nestled amidst serene tea gardens, this premium retreat offers world-class amenities, exquisite dining, and a tranquil ambience ideal for both leisure and business travelers. Experience opulent rooms, rejuvenating spa treatments, and unparalleled hospitality that make every stay memorable. For More Details Visit Us.

[mayfairmanor]

The Fusion of Modern Luxury and Local Charm in a Hotel in Darjeeling

Darjeeling, known for its iconic tea gardens and breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga, has long been a sought-after destination for travelers. Among the many accommodations available, Mayfair Manor stands out as a premier hotel in Darjeeling, offering a seamless blend of modern luxury and the region’s unique cultural charm.

Redefining Luxury in Darjeeling

Mayfair Manor sets a benchmark for hospitality in Darjeeling, providing state-of-the-art amenities and personalized services. With 42 exquisitely designed rooms and suites, the hotel caters to guests seeking both comfort and sophistication. Each room is a masterpiece, equipped with smart technology, plush bedding, and stunning views of the surrounding hills.

The hotel also boasts a multi-cuisine restaurant, serving dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This attention to detail ensures that every meal is as memorable as the scenic landscapes outside. Guests can also unwind at the hotel’s wellness spa, which features therapies inspired by Himalayan traditions, adding a unique touch to their stay.

Local Heritage Meets World-Class Hospitality

What makes Mayfair Manor truly special is its celebration of Darjeeling’s rich cultural heritage. The interiors feature elements inspired by the region’s history, such as handcrafted wooden furniture, local artwork, and traditional textiles. The hotel’s design seamlessly incorporates these aspects, creating a space that feels both luxurious and authentic.

Guests can explore curated experiences that connect them to the local community. Tea-tasting sessions, for instance, provide insights into Darjeeling’s world-renowned tea industry. Additionally, the hotel organizes guided walks through nearby villages, allowing guests to witness the region’s vibrant traditions.

Sustainability at the Core

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, Mayfair Manor takes proactive steps to minimize its environmental impact. The hotel uses energy-efficient systems and has a robust waste management program. Over 30% of the energy needs are met through renewable sources, showcasing its commitment to preserving Darjeeling’s fragile ecosystem.

A Gateway to Darjeeling’s Wonders

Located just 1.5 kilometers from the Darjeeling Mall, Mayfair Manor provides easy access to the town’s iconic attractions. Guests can visit the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or marvel at the sunrise from Tiger Hill, just 13 kilometers away. The hotel also offers exclusive transport services, ensuring that every journey is as seamless as the stay.

Why Mayfair Manor Stands Out

Mayfair Manor isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a destination in itself. With impeccable service, an emphasis on local culture, and a commitment to sustainability, it has established itself as a leading hotel in Darjeeling. By combining modern luxury with authentic charm, the hotel offers guests an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas.

For anyone planning their next trip to Darjeeling, Mayfair Manor remains a top choice, blending the best of contemporary comfort and cultural immersion.

[wcvillage]

Why Mayfair Worldcup Village Redefines Luxury as the Best Hotel in Rourkela

Mayfair Worldcup Village has set a new benchmark for luxury in Rourkela. Strategically designed to combine elegance with functionality, it is not just a hotel—it is a statement of opulence. With its sophisticated offerings, impeccable service, and world-class amenities, Mayfair Worldcup Village undeniably earns the title of the best hotel in Rourkela.

Unmatched Architectural Design

The architecture of Mayfair Worldcup Village stands out as a masterpiece in contemporary luxury. Spread across several acres, the property features a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and traditional design elements. Its grand lobby, adorned with intricate artwork and bespoke furnishings, sets the tone for a luxurious stay. Every corner of the hotel reflects meticulous attention to detail, creating an ambiance that exudes refinement.

World-Class Accommodations

The hotel offers over 50 premium rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of discerning travelers. Every room features plush interiors, cutting-edge technology, and top-of-the-line amenities. High-speed Wi-Fi, smart room controls, and spacious living areas ensure comfort and convenience for every guest.

In addition, the suites come with private terraces, offering breathtaking views of the city or landscaped gardens. These spaces provide guests with a perfect retreat after a busy day, reinforcing why Mayfair Worldcup Village is the best hotel in Rourkela.

Fine Dining Like No Other

Mayfair Worldcup Village boasts three in-house restaurants that cater to a variety of culinary preferences. From authentic regional delicacies to international gourmet meals, the dining options are curated to perfection. The chefs ensure that every dish meets global standards of quality and taste. The rooftop bar, with panoramic views of Rourkela, adds an extra layer of exclusivity to the dining experience.

For corporate travelers, the hotel provides premium catering for business events and private gatherings, further showcasing its ability to exceed expectations.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Luxury goes beyond accommodations and dining at Mayfair Worldcup Village. The hotel features a wellness spa offering specialized therapies, a fully equipped fitness center, and a swimming pool designed to unwind and recharge.

Its 24-hour business center, equipped with modern technology, ensures that professionals can seamlessly handle work commitments. Additionally, the banquet and conference halls can host events for up to 500 people, making it an ideal destination for weddings, corporate events, and social celebrations.

Proximity to Key Landmarks

Mayfair Worldcup Village is conveniently located just 10 minutes away from Rourkela Steel Plant and 15 minutes from the city center. Its strategic location allows guests to access key landmarks effortlessly. This unique advantage sets it apart as the best hotel in Rourkela for both leisure and business travelers.

Commitment to Excellence

The hotel prides itself on maintaining a staff-to-guest ratio of 1:2, ensuring personalized service at all times. With a focus on sustainability, the property incorporates energy-efficient practices and waste management systems, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers.

Conclusion

Mayfair Worldcup Village is not just a hotel; it is a symbol of luxury and sophistication. By combining exquisite accommodations, exceptional dining, modern facilities, and unmatched service, it has redefined hospitality in Rourkela. For anyone seeking the best hotel in Rourkela, Mayfair Worldcup Village is the ultimate choice.

[mayfairheritagepuri]

How the Best Hotel in Puri Redefines Sustainable Beachfront Hospitality

Sustainable hospitality has moved beyond being just a trend. It is now a necessity in the face of environmental challenges and evolving traveler expectations. Among the pioneers of this approach, Mayfair Heritage stands out as the Best Hotel in Puri, offering an exemplary model of eco-conscious beachfront hospitality.

Reducing Environmental Impact

Mayfair Heritage demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through practical actions and measurable outcomes. The property uses energy-efficient systems, such as LED lighting and motion sensors, across all guest areas. Solar panels have been installed to reduce dependency on non-renewable energy sources, providing up to 30% of the hotel's energy needs.

Water conservation is another priority. The hotel has implemented a robust water recycling system that ensures all greywater is treated and reused for landscaping and cleaning purposes. Over the past year, this system has reduced water consumption by 20%, aligning with global sustainability benchmarks.

Supporting Local Communities

As the Best Hotel in Puri, Mayfair Heritage doesn’t just focus on internal operations. It actively supports local communities through employment opportunities and partnerships with local vendors. Over 60% of the workforce comes from nearby areas, contributing directly to the region's economic development.

The hotel also sources seafood, vegetables, and other supplies locally, reducing transportation emissions while supporting small businesses. This approach fosters a sustainable supply chain that benefits both the environment and the local economy.

Responsible Waste Management

Beachfront locations face unique challenges in waste management, but Mayfair Heritage has tackled this effectively. The hotel follows strict waste segregation practices, ensuring recyclable materials are processed properly. In 2023 alone, it recycled over 15 tons of waste. Additionally, organic waste is converted into compost, which is then used to nourish the lush gardens surrounding the property.

By eliminating single-use plastics, the hotel has taken another significant step. Guests are provided with reusable glass bottles and biodegradable packaging to minimize their environmental footprint.

Enhancing Guest Awareness

Mayfair Heritage goes beyond operational sustainability by encouraging guest participation. Informational signage and interactive workshops educate guests about the importance of protecting Puri’s fragile coastal ecosystem. Over 1,000 guests attended these sessions last year, contributing to broader environmental awareness.

To further engage guests, the hotel offers eco-friendly activities such as guided nature walks and beach clean-up drives. These initiatives provide visitors with a deeper connection to the local environment while leaving a positive impact on the community.

A Model for Sustainable Luxury

The Best Hotel in Puri, Mayfair Heritage, exemplifies how sustainability and luxury can coexist without compromise. By integrating green practices into its daily operations and guest experiences, the hotel sets a new standard for eco-friendly beachfront hospitality.

For today’s discerning travelers, Mayfair Heritage offers more than just a stay. It provides a meaningful connection to the environment and the local community, ensuring that every visit contributes to a larger purpose. Through measurable actions and continuous innovation, the property remains a leader in sustainable tourism along Puri’s iconic coastline.

[mayfairrourkela]

Experience unmatched luxury at Mayfair Garden Rourkela, one of the best luxury hotels in Rourkela. Offering exquisite accommodations, world-class amenities, and exceptional hospitality, this premier property is perfect for both business and leisure travellers. Surrounded by serene landscapes, it combines comfort, elegance, and modern convenience to ensure a memorable stay. Indulge in fine dining, relax in lush gardens, and enjoy the superior services that define Mayfair Garden Rourkela. For More Details:-https://www.mayfairhotels.com/rourkela/

[tripncare]

Best Homestays in Kalimpong for an Authentic Experience

Kalimpong, a serene hill station in West Bengal, offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, lush greenery, and a calm ambiance that soothes the soul. Beyond its natural beauty, the town is known for its warm hospitality. Staying in a homestay in Kalimpong provides travelers with a unique opportunity to experience local culture, cuisine, and traditions.

Why Choose a Homestay in Kalimpong?

Immersive Cultural Experience

Homestays in Kalimpong allow you to dive into the local lifestyle. Whether it’s savoring home-cooked meals made with fresh, organic ingredients or learning about traditional practices, these stays create a bond between visitors and the host families.

Unlike hotels, homestays provide a personal touch, where every interaction contributes to your understanding of the region’s customs and culture.

Spectacular Views and Serene Atmosphere

Nestled amidst nature, many homestays in Kalimpong boast stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range and surrounding valleys. Imagine waking up to the sight of the sun rising over snow-capped peaks or sipping tea in lush gardens filled with colorful blooms.

The tranquility of these accommodations makes them ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Personalized Hospitality

Homestays are managed by locals who treat their guests as part of the family. Their personalized approach ensures that you feel welcomed and cared for throughout your stay. From customizing meals to helping you plan your sightseeing, hosts go above and beyond to make your trip memorable.

Top Homestays in Kalimpong

Orchid Retreat

Location: Kalimpong Highlights: Orchid Retreat is a tranquil homestay surrounded by vibrant gardens and orchards. It offers spacious rooms with rustic decor, complemented by breathtaking views of the mountains.

The hosts, known for their warmth, serve delectable home-cooked meals and guide you to nearby attractions. Activities such as birdwatching and nature walks are popular among guests.

Windsongs Homestay

Location: Upper Cart Road Highlights: Perfect for families and solo travelers alike, Windsongs Homestay is renowned for its cozy cottages and panoramic views of the Teesta River.

The property features a library and a sprawling garden where you can relax with a cup of Darjeeling tea. The hosts often organize bonfires, making your evenings lively and enjoyable.

Hidden Gem Retreat

Location: Near Dr. Graham’s Homes Highlights: Hidden Gem Retreat lives up to its name, offering a secluded and peaceful environment. This homestay is known for its eco-friendly practices, such as using solar energy and sourcing produce from its organic farm.

Guests can enjoy guided tours of Kalimpong’s historic sites or participate in yoga sessions conducted on the premises.

Sinclairs Retreat Kalimpong

Location: Rinkingpong Road Highlights: Combining luxury with authenticity, Sinclairs Retreat provides a homely atmosphere in a luxurious setting. The rooms are elegantly designed, offering a perfect blend of comfort and local aesthetics.

The hosts are keen on sharing stories about Kalimpong’s history and culture, ensuring a rich experience for their guests.

Mayfair Mountain View Homestay

Location: Deolo Hill Highlights: Situated on Deolo Hill, this homestay offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and the surrounding valleys. The property is adorned with antique furniture, reflecting Kalimpong's colonial past.

Guests can explore nearby trekking trails, visit the famous Deolo Park, or simply unwind in the homestay’s serene garden.

 What to Expect in Kalimpong Homestays

Local Cuisine

Homestays in Kalimpong serve traditional Nepali, Tibetan, and Indian cuisines. From steaming momos to thukpa and sel roti, the meals are often prepared with love using organic ingredients sourced locally.

Unique Decor and Warm Ambiance

Most homestays are designed to reflect the local culture and traditions. Expect cozy interiors adorned with handcrafted items, wooden furniture, and warm lighting that create a comforting atmosphere.

Insights into Local Life

By staying with local families, you gain a deeper understanding of their daily lives, customs, and festivals. Many hosts are eager to share stories, teach you a few Nepali words, or guide you in wearing traditional attire.

Photography Spots Near Homestays

Kalimpong is a photographer’s paradise. Many homestays are located close to picturesque spots like:

Deolo Hill: Known for its stunning sunrise views.

Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Monastery: A colorful structure offering panoramic views.

Teesta River: Perfect for capturing reflections and serene landscapes.

Homestay gardens, often filled with exotic flowers, also make for stunning photo backdrops.

Tips for Staying in a Homestay

 Respect Local Customs

While enjoying your stay, remember to respect the host’s customs and traditions. This includes dress codes in some homes and dining etiquette.

Communicate Your Preferences

Let your hosts know about your dietary preferences or any specific requirements beforehand. This helps them plan your meals and activities better.

Carry Essentials

Kalimpong can get chilly, especially at night. Pack warm clothing and comfortable shoes for exploring the area.

Plan Your Visit to Kalimpong

 Best Time to Visit

While Kalimpong is beautiful year-round, October to March is ideal for those who enjoy cooler weather and clear mountain views.

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra, about 80 km away.

By Train: New Jalpaiguri is the closest railway station.

By Road: Kalimpong is well-connected by roads from Darjeeling, Siliguri, and Gangtok.

Conclusion

Staying in a homestay in Kalimpong offers more than just a place to rest—it provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture, warm hospitality, and stunning natural beauty of the region. From savoring home-cooked meals to waking up to breathtaking Himalayan views, the experience is both enriching and unforgettable.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking a romantic retreat, or a family looking to bond in a serene setting, Kalimpong’s homestays cater to all. Plan your trip today and discover why these cozy abodes are the best way to experience this Himalayan gem.

For an authentic and soulful travel experience, Kalimpong’s homestays await with open arms and warm hearts.