Happy Thursday Hidden Gem Travel community! I’m excited that spring has finally arrived, and that life outdoors is picking up with the nicer weather. Yes, life is hectic in the spring, but it holds so much beauty and opportunity.
In the next couple of months, I’ll be traveling to northern Italy for 10 days scouting new experiences for my clients and participating in a local luxury bridal show. I love inspiring brides and grooms to consider bucket list honeymoon destinations! If you know anyone who has Italy on their travel wish list or would like help planning their honeymoon, please forward this email. Brides/grooms can contact me for free tickets to the bridal show (first come first serve). The show will bring together vendors of all kinds, so if you’re planning an event you’re welcome to come too. The show website is https://www.thebridalfete.com/.
Onto the topic of this week’s newsletter… when was the last time you were in London? It’s such an incredible, iconic city with an almost endless list of things to do and explore. It’s an ideal destination for families and couples who love Europe and want to soak in British history and contemporary culture. In fact, part of the experience is enjoying classically British afternoon tea and a cocktail or two in a hotel bar loaded with character. What better way to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee this year marking her incredible 70 years of service?
If you’d like to visit London for the first time or plan a revisit, read on for the scoop…
Afternoon Tea Overlooking Buckingham Palace
It doesn’t get more British than sipping your afternoon tea overlooking the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace at The Rubens. This five-star, beautifully restored historic hotel is part of the illustrious Red Carnation hotel group. Hidden Gem Travel clients get some fantastic amenities here!
The hotel’s award-winning afternoon tea is prepared by Executive Pastry Chef Sarah Houghting who was a finalist in the 2021 Great British Bake Off: The Professionals television series. A culinary treat!
Choose from Royal Afternoon Tea, Champagne Afternoon Tea, Vegan and Le Green Champagne Afternoon Tea, and Prince & Princess Afternoon Tea menus for children under the age of 12. You’ll indulge in freshly prepared pastries, finger sandwiches, and scones as well as a wide variety of tea and sparkling cocktail choices.
I’ll start with a honey and white chocolate scone with homemade seasonal fruit preserve & clotted cream. Oh and later I’ll pop into The Leopard Bar which serves over 200 whiskeys and 30 types of Champagne with live jazz and swing music.
💎 Hidden Gem Tip: If you’re already intrigued, you can schedule a chat with me here: www.hiddengemtravelconsulting.com/contact.
180-Degree City Views
Shangri-La The Shard showcases London’s stunning cityscapes with 180-degree views and the tallest building in Europe. It’s a hot spot for foodies and luxury travelers who want a zen-feel and a room that offers a view from the bathtub. Hidden Gem Travel clients get breakfast daily and a $100 food and beverage credit, among other perks.
Experience London’s highest Afternoon Tea experience in Ting with its jaw-dropping views. The hotel’s interior changes in theme every season. The current winter theme is Alpine-Ski through March 31st. Stay tuned for the theme for this spring (I suspect it will be amazing and aligned with the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations).
💎 Hidden Gem Tip: For more London options with the perks check this out: Best Of The Best Hotels and Experiences
Tea and Cocktails in Mayfair
By day, head to The Beaumont for a tea menu with American classics like chicken Caesar sandwiches, deviled eggs, and PB&J macarons. At night, head to the Gatsby Room complete with a Baby Grand piano.
Another day-to-night option in Mayfair is at The Connaught which offers highly personalized butler service with contemporary art and a warm atmosphere. While enjoying Afternoon Tea, watch the life of Mayfair village move by you and munch on exotic teas and finger sandwiches where British meets bold South-east Asian flavors. Yet another twist on the experience!
At night, return to the Connaught Bar which was named “World’s Best Bar’ in 2021 as judged by more than 500 industry experts. Cheers!
By the way, Hidden Gem Travel clients get valuable perks at both of these incredible hotels!
Inspired? If you’re thinking about a bucket list trip to London, here’s the link to schedule a chat with me www.hiddengemtravelconsulting.com/contact
💎 Hidden Gem Tip: Follow my Facebook/Instagram pages this week for more travel inspiration: www.facebook.com/hiddengemtravelconsulting or Instagram: www.instagram.com/hidden.gem.travel
Wishing you and your family continued good health,
Susan
