Latest news with #TheSavoy
New York Post
11 hours ago
- Business
- New York Post
NYC snubbed on new ‘10 best hotels in the world' list compiled by expert travel reviewers
La Liste just revealed the top 10 best hotels in the world — and none of the luxury ones in New York made the elite list. With so many incredible travel destinations — it's hard to narrow down the best places to stay, but the Paris-based company known for its hotel and restaurant rankings took on the difficult task of doing just that. To compile this list, the site looked at 400 different hotel reviews given by press — which then went through an algorithm system to create a score on a 100-point scale, as explained by Bloomberg. 'We are a synthesis of all the rankings and ratings that we find knowledgeable,' Helene Pietrini, managing director of La Liste, told Bloomberg. As a result, 10 different hotels around the world all ranked No. 1 — six of them are in Europe, and none in the tri-state area. Who made the cut? 1. La Réserve Paris This 5-star hotel is one that tourists — and travel reviewers — can't get enough of. 'The property has exceptional service, some great food and beverage outlets, a pool and spa, and a beautiful historic design. If money is no object, it really is hard to choose between the top properties in Paris — it all depends on what part of town you prefer staying in, and what kind of vibe and design you like,' One Mile At A Time wrote. 2. Cheval Blanc Paris Jing Daily described this Paris hotel as one that 'doesn't just offer accommodation at a level where everything is exceptional. What truly sets it apart is its ability to craft unforgettable moments — moments that I don't think I will ever forget.' 3. The Connaught Hotel in London 4 This London hotel is beloved by many travelers. In Pictures via Getty Images Forbes Travel Guide described this gem of a hotel as 'the perfect base to explore the rest of London, including the theaters of the West End, open spaces of nearby Hyde Park and Green Park and the designer boutiques, galleries, antique stores and restaurants a stone's throw away on Mount Street.' 4. The Savoy in London 4 The Savoy is the second UK hotel to make the elite list. Peter Dazeley Condé Nast Traveler described The Savoy as 'iconic' and a 'rumored favorite hotel of Marilyn Monroe and Marlene Dietrich (who has a suite named after her), the Savoy was the first hotel in Britain to have elevators and electric light, and it is still at the top of its game.' 5. Il San Pietro di Positano, Italy This hotel in Positano, Italy, is a favorite amongst travelers. 'Despite its celebrity status and litany of services, it remains a family affair – impeccably run by the Cinque family for over 50 years. The lush gardens and lemon groves, the fabulously romantic terrace bar and Michelin-starred restaurant Zass all offer mesmerizing Amalfi-coast views; down by the water, there's a pool, spa, tennis court, solarium and the al fresco beachside restaurant, Carlino's,' the Telegraph raved. 6. J.K. Place Capri, Italy This hotel on the island of Capri, Italy, is described as anything but ordinary. Forbes said this is 'one of the only hotels in Capri located right on the ocean. It has 22 unique rooms and suites. Many rooms have small balconies facing the sea, and the penthouse suite has a long private terrace with a panoramic view of the Gulf of Naples.' And the cost for these spectacular rooms? Seafront rooms reportedly go for $2,000 a night in the summer. 7. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, Thailand 4 Expert reviewers couldn't say enough good things about this Thailand hotel. Getty Images Condé Nast Traveler explained that the Mandarin Oriental is 'Bangkok's first hotel is still, despite some extremely stiff competition from any number of more recent arrivals, it best — as well as one of the finest examples anywhere on earth of a grande dame that knows exactly how to grow old gracefully. Arrive by boat and you'll see the hotel from the Chao Phraya River, as nature intended.' 8. The Peninsula Shanghai, China Forbes Travel Guide had nothing but amazing things to say about the Peninsula Shanghai. 'The service is impeccable from the moment you arrive at the Five-Star hotel until you check out. And don't worry if your Chinese is limited to ni hao ('hello'): Everyone on the staff speaks English well and could not be more gracious or more readily available to help.' 9. The Peninsula Chicago 4 The Peninsula Chicago was the only US hotel to make the top 10 list. Getty Images It's a high honor for The Peninsula Chicago to make this elite list, since it's the only US option. Experts at the Pursuitist describe this hotel as 'the perfect upscale destination for families, dignitaries, celebrities, and affluent business travelers. With numerous delicious fine-dining options, the stunning pool, spacious rooms and suites, there is so much to adore about the legendary Peninsula Chicago.' 10. Rosewood Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Mexico This hotel is known for its modern rooms and quiet atmosphere with stunning views. 'A stay at Rosewood Mayakoba is just as much about luxury as it is about immersing oneself in the wilds of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula,' Conde Nast Traveler wrote.
BBC News
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Savoy tea for two comes true at Northampton care home
One of the UK's best-known hotels has stepped in to make a Christmas dream come true for two care home and Jean, who live at Collingtree Park near Northampton, said they had always wanted to take afternoon tea at The Savoy in the Strand in hotel obliged with a hamper of treats, some genuine Savoy bone china, and a handwritten copy of their scone recipe for the home's ladies said they were "treated like royalty". The story began when the home's activities co-ordinator, Martin Tilly-Reed, set up a Christmas wishing tree for residents to reveal their hopes and dreams for got all kinds of responses, but the one from Betty and Jean caught his Tilly-Reed got in touch with The Savoy to see if they would make the ladies' dream a reality. The hotel was built by the impresario Richard D'Oyly Carte with profits from his Gilbert and Sullivan opera productions and opened on 6 August has three restaurants, all managed by Gordon Ramsay, but would they be able to bring something of their opulence to a South Northamptonshire care home?The answer came in the shape of a hamper of Savoy treats, a bone china Savoy tea service, and handwritten instructions for the Collingtree Park chef to create Savoy scones for all the residents. Betty and Jean said: "It has been the most fantastic afternoon, we have been treated like royalty."We had the most beautiful fine bone china, delicious Savoy black tea, home-made Savoy scones, and gorgeous Savoy preserves as well."Such a day to remember and so lovely to be able to share it with all our friends here and all the staff who really are heaven-sent."The acting general manager of the home, Catherine Campbell, said: "The Christmas wishing tree was Martin's idea and he is busy fulfilling all our residents' wishes."This one took a little while to pull off but was it worth the wait." Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
South Wales Argus
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
I tried Gordon Ramsay's beef wellington at the Savoy
The first purpose-built deluxe hotel in London, The Savoy is still to this day the only 5-star hotel on the River Thames. A magnet for the wealthy, the famous, and the glamorous. Or so you thought. 'Cos I went last weekend. I've always loved a trip to London. The train down itself evokes a sense of excitement in me, but this trip surpassed all others. It was, without question, unforgettable in every way. On the Northbank of the River Thames, it is equidistant from the City of London, the world's financial capital, as well as the luxury thoroughfares of Knightsbridge and Mayfair. (Image: Newsquest) So, as I approached the grand entrance - as a man who often looks like he got dressed during a power cut - I was somewhat nervous at what lay ahead. Thankfully, I had the foresight to plan ahead, there would be no sartorial faux pas on this occasion. Ha! No sir. I wore jeans. Jokes aside, it honestly was quite nerve-wracking at first. My girlfriend and I had experienced Gordon Ramsay's food before, at his incredible restaurant in Manchester, but this was on another level. To the uninitiated, The Savoy is daunting. At first, you don't know how to act, whom to speak to, or even where to look. We were at least three social classes below the local stray cat. But then came along the concierge at the reception, who set the perfect tone for the evening. Charming, warm, friendly, and to put it plainly, nice, we were set at ease seconds upon crossing the threshold. All those preconceived emotions dissipated immediately, we simply gave in to the experience. And we were in for some ride. The inside of the Savoy screams elegance, yet somewhat delicately. Now, you might think, how? But it somehow manages it. Subtle, decadent, yet still retaining an incredible allure. We passed through a lounge, which had a feeling reminiscent of 1950's jazz bars, to get to our table. Right in the corner of The River Restaurant by Gordon Ramsay. Perfect. (Image: Newsquest) The view of the Thames was quickly forgotten by the sudden arrival of Ethan, our server for the night and Champagne, complimentary from the River Restaurant. I'm not one for bubbles, typically, but I could have had an entire bottle of this. After mulling over the menu (lord knows why, we had perused the online version weeks beforehand obsessively), we decided on a bottle of Chablis, the seafood platter for two, Gordon Ramsay's signature beef wellington, and the haddock in Champagne sauce. When. In. Rome. Ethan told us the wait for the seafood platter would be about half an hour, so he suggested we get some sides for the time being. Do not threaten us. We went for some malted sourdough and whipped taramasalata with cured scallop roe. In hindsight, this was a mistake. The Chablis and sides arrived promptly, and we tucked into both. I'll be totally honest, I'm not overly familiar with taramasalata, but it was a pure revelation with that sourdough bread and butter. However, we were in danger of filling up too quickly. Thankfully, my favourite white wine on the planet soothed our palates just in time for the showstopper, the seafood platter for two. Or as it should be styled, 'half of Brighton's seafront, on ice'. I gawped at what lay in front of me, staring open-mouthed at the mountain of Finding Nemo extras. Oysters, snails, cockles, clams, mussels, crevettes and deviled crab. For myself, the oysters complemented by the vinaigrette and Tabasco were a marriage made in heaven. The snails, on the other hand, a lonely singleton. Not for me. (Image: Newsquest) The mussels were equally moreish; they are perhaps my favourite fish of all, so to be edged out by the oysters is truly saying something. The prawns, the cockles and the clams were all equally delicious. It all tasted so incredibly fresh, like that half-hour wait was giving the chef ample time to go and catch them, just for us. Stunning. Where we sat felt special. Right in the corner where we could chat, drink amazing wine, and take in the incredible aura of the restaurant. 'Bury me here,' springs to mind. I do like a spot of people watching from time to time, so this best seat in the house gave us the perfect opportunity. Forgive everything I said earlier about this being a place solely for the ladies, lord's and aristocrats, it was a place for normal people wanting an unforgettable experience. An anniversary, a birthday, a celebration, the Savoy listens to what you want to get out of it and responds tremendously. But before I became lost in the moment, the next round of showstoppers was about to arrive. Gordon Ramsay's beef wellington is arguably one of the most famous dishes on the planet. From TikTok to YouTube, I've seen this dish recreated a thousand times, and the end result never ceases to amaze me. Aesthetically, it appears to be one of the most succulent things in the world. But I've never had the opportunity to see if the taste matches the look until now. As the plate approached my table, I had a flashback. Have you seen the Top Gear episode when Jeremy Clarkson arrives at camp with a cow on his roof? Yep, that's what it felt like. Imagine that cow in pastry. Georgia's haddock in Champagne sauce felt a little more delicate. Anyway, le verdict. Does it stand up to the hype? Yes, it does, in droves. (Image: Newsquest) The beef was cooked perfectly medium rare and cut through like butter, each mouthful felt more tender than the last. The accompanying red wine jus elevated the flavour of the beef to new levels; it was without doubt one of the best cuts of beef I've ever tasted. The haddock, word. I went in expecting the beef wellington to just blow me away, but that honour has to go to the haddock. The Champagne sauce had a hint of anise to it, which felt like a soothing Ouzo cuddle in the belly. Of the haddock itself, it was quite honestly one of the nicest things I've ever had the pleasure of tasting. It's called the River Restaurant for a reason, after all. After all this food, you're probably thinking, how can you possibly fit more in? Well, his beef wellington is probably just a touch more famous than his sticky toffee pudding. So we shared one. If this were to be our Mr Creosote moment, then so be it. It would've been worth it. Recommended reading: Gordon Ramsay's restaurant review: An incredible experience I visited the Grand Hotel in Birmingham and owe an apology REVIEW: Marco's New York Italian - a sad disappointment The Savoy's River Restaurant by Gordon Ramsay was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to be frank with you. I felt so lucky to be able to experience a place that lives up to the hype and more. Yes, ok, it's obviously going to be an expensive experience. You don't need me to tell you that. But if you want to visit somewhere for a special occasion that will truly give you a taste of the high life, then consider this top of your list. From the staff at reception to the waiters, sommeliers and chefs, it was a place that made you feel wealthy, famous, and glamorous, no matter your background
Irish Examiner
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Examiner
Sacred and profane: Ecclesiastical furniture and pub memorabilia under the hammer
A once-off selection of antique furniture, lighting, religious art and ecclesiastical brass will come under the hammer at Victor Mee's live online sale of contents from the St Louis Convent in Monaghan and other clients on Tuesday and Wednesday (May 14) at 6pm on both days. The sale is led by a large 19th-century six-door bookcase with a realistic estimate of just €800-€1,200. A 19th-century pitch-pine bookcase at Victor Mee's sale of contents from the St Louis Convent in Monaghan. A 19th-century pitch-pine bookcase, another very large piece, has an estimate of €600-€1,200. At the other end of the sale is a striking pair of 1970s leather club chairs by Bart van Bekhoven (€800-€1,200). Oak refectory tables and a French gilded six-branch chandelier are among the standout lots. Pub mirrors are highly collectable and Aidan Foley will offer a number of them at his online sale on Monday and Tuesday (May 12 and 13) at 6pm on each day. A large Jameson Whiskey mirror at Aidan Foley's sale. A rare Watts Tyrconnell Pure Pot Still Whiskey mirror and a large Jameson Whiskey mirror lead the pack. There are concert posters of Limerick interest featuring U2 and The Pogues at The Savoy, and a large selection of hotel furniture. The catalogue is online and the auction is on view from 11am to 5pm today until Monday at the old Cleeves Toffee factory in Limerick.
Euronews
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Euronews
High buildings, loose morals: Art Deco movement celebrates its centenary
ADVERTISEMENT The French capital experienced the first emergence of the art and design phenomenon that was later termed Art Deco in the 1910s but only truly blossomed at the Paris World's Fair of 1925. An artistic and philosophical response to the Art Nouveau movement of the late 19th century meant that, after the brutality of war and destruction during World War One, intricacy, whimsy and romanticism gave way pretty quickly to clean lines and geometric design. But there was also a sense of the need to enjoy oneself in style now it was possible again. So, 100 years later to the very week, let's find out more about it. How did Art Deco emerge? The 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes inspired what became the more snappy name of Art Deco in a 1968 text by Bevis Hillier. The fair took place in the French capital and showcased the latest in modern design. Thus, the new movement became the embodiment of Modernist principles in the arena of art and design. Having many elements in common with Cubism and Russian Constructivism, Art Deco moved the focus from the ephemeral to the practical and the engineered. A craving for order after chaos, one might say. But that's not to imply it was in any way banal or down-at-heel. Quite the opposite. The Savoy (Strand side), London Jez Fielder Where can I see Art Deco? London's Savoy Hotel began life as very much an Art Nouveau entity but one of the company attended the Paris fair in 1925 and came back with some very different ideas for design. British designer Basil Ionides' reworking of the private dining room ' Pinafore ' in 1926 embodied the stylistic change to Art Deco and is still untouched to the present day. Then, in 1929, architect Howard Robertson unveiled the iconic stainless steel 'Savoy' sign which runs the width of Savoy Court, above. Brussels is also full of Art Deco. And not just in its celebrated municipal buildings such as the Villa Empain, the Basilica of Koekelberg, and elements of Stoclet Palace, but also in some of the Belgian city centre's residential areas. And of course the city that kicked it all off, Paris, is a haven for Art Deco lovers. The Palais de Tokyo and the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées are two notable landmarks for this style. But the movement outlived its European genesis to take the US by storm as evidenced by the imposing edifice below. Chicago's Merchandise Mart opened in 1930 with a staggering four million square feet of floor space. Chicago's Art Deco Merchandise Mart AP Photo 1998 What defines Art Deco? An art movement is often hard to define as, even if it has a manifesto, that's usually only written by a handful of people at most, and later, others develop or even disown the early form. Emma Bastin, historian and treasurer of the Art Deco Society in the UK says this is one of the reasons a definition is hard to pin down. "It had so many influences feeding into it, from the very old, such as Ancient Egypt and Greece, to the very modern - for example, the most avant-garde art of the early twentieth century. It also draws from mass commercialisation, the work of artisans and the use of new-fangled man-made materials. Finally, it emerged in many different European countries at a similar time, all of which added to its eclecticism." Ancient Egypt may seem a world away from the 'roaring twenties' but Howard Carter's discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922 brought antiquity back into the contemporary conversation. Only a short boat ride down the Chicago river stands the Riverside Plaza (completed in 1929) which, if you look closely enough, has an image referencing the pharaoh beneath its clock face. The face of antiquity on the former Chicago Daily News building Jez Fielder But don't all these influences make these landmarks impossible to recognise as part of any specific movement? "There is something which makes Art Deco instantly recognisable," Bastin insists. "Geometric shapes, clean lines and bold colours are often used. There are also repeated motifs in many forms of art deco such as zig-zags, sunrays or human figures. Anything decorative is normally very simple and pared-back, rather than being photo-realistic. The upshot of this simplicity is that objects/buildings/art often looks very modern and glamorous, and this is why it also has such an enduring appeal - think of the glamour of Gatsby, the use of art-deco inspired interiors in luxury hotels, or the long-lasting appeal of posters which are now popular as art in their own right." ADVERTISEMENT The Knickerbocker Bar inside the ocean liner 'The Empress of Britain' May 16, 1931 AP PHOTO 1931 References to geometric shapes and clean lines don't simply apply to architecture, of course. Fashion leaps to mind. An Art Deco red and black galalith and chrome necklace, Bonhams, London, Jan 2008. AP Photo And the release of perhaps the flagship Art Deco text 'The Great Gatsby' as a film over a decade ago was a fine platform for costume designers to revisit the styles of F. Scott Fitzgerald's heyday. Stocks reached record peaks, and Wall Street boomed a steady golden roar. The parties were bigger, the shows were broader, the buildings were higher, the morals were looser, and the ban on alcohol had backfired F. Scott Fitzgerald The Great Gatsby Dancers perform on the red carpet for the screening of The Great Gatsby in Cannes, May 2013 AP Photo How did the movement develop? Art Deco morphed into a more streamlined style as the 1930s progressed. Elements of excess were tempered and made less obvious. The focus was now on horizontal lines rather than vertical ones. St Olaf's House opposite London Bridge Station Jez Fielder The look was inspired by upgrades in technology, particularly those aspects of technology that developed the lives of the glamorous. Ocean liners, aircraft and increasingly sleek trains. And the "new-fangled man-made materials" that Bastin talks about were chromium plating and the ability to build much higher that the burgeoning use of steel enabled. The verticality of the American Skyscraper is the clearest testament to that, but closer to home the use of Portland stone and gilt lettering as seen with London's St Olaf's House are also hallmarks of Art Deco and Streamline Moderne. ADVERTISEMENT At the same time, urban development created the need for more municipal buildings in the expanding suburbs and so there were increasing opportunities to build using this style and these elements. In a way, then, Art Deco and its streamlined development could be seen as less of an art movement and more of a result of a changing society due to economic shifts and the need for a new environment with more services.
