Latest news with #boutiquehotel
Forbes
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
A Creative's Guide To Notting Hill: Where To Go Beyond Portobello Road
Set across fourGeorgian townhouses, The Laslett is one of the only boutique hotels in London's charming Notting Hill district Courtesy of The Laslett 'This is the London I came here for,' says Jessica in Too Much , Lena Dunham's new Netflix series that follows an American transplant to The Big Smoke. After taking a photo in front of the famous blue door—the entrance to Hugh Grant's home in the hit romcom, Notting Hill — her character strolls around the area wistfully exclaiming what most of us think when we visit this incredibly pretty slice of London. Thanks to its multiple appearances on the silver screen—The Beatles filmed part of A Hard Day's Night in Notting Hill Gate in 1964—people have a distinct image of the area even if they've never stepped foot there. Before The White Lotus inspired set-jetters, countless references make this neighborhood one of the original set-jetting destinations. A beautiful pink terrace house near Portobello Road in Notting Hill (Photo by Sam Mellish / In Pictures via Getty Images Images) In Pictures via Getty Images There isn't much need to explain its appeal: From the lovely pastel-colored houses to the jumbles of antiques on Portobello Road, there's a creative pulse running through the neighbood even though it has significantly gentrified over the decades. This edgy, elegant character is something that Tracy Lowy knows well and celebrates in her boutique hotel, The Laslett. Lowy grew up in the area and says that this part of West London was once hub for pottery and ceramic crafts and an artist's enclave, so its reputation as a bohemian haven has deep roots. The Henderson Bar at The Laslett features blends sophistication with creative flair Courtesy of The Laslett It was also the landing pad for Irish and Caribbean immigrants—the latter resulting in the vibrant Notting Hill Carnival, an annual 3-day event running since the 1960s. This movement directly influenced The Laslett, which was named after local activist Rhaune Laslett, who helped spark the creation of the Carnival. One of the only townhouse hotels in this popular district, The Laslett also functions as a creative incubator. Its walls feature artwork from icons and emerging names, its shelves are lined with books gifted by friends and former guests such as Roland Mouret, and its rooms welcome global names like legendary jewellery designer Francesca Amfitheatrof. Tracy Lowy, founder of The Laslett in Notting Hill and Living Rooms, was one of the first hoteliers who set up a hotel that reflects the area's creative spirit Courtesy of The Laslett Here, its founder Tracy Lowy shares her insider guide to Notting Hill. WHERE TO EAT Dorian Located on a quiet road in Westbourne Park, this low-key local restaurant makes headlines because of its A-list clientele (the likes of the Beckhams frequent it). 'Make sure to order the Crab Rosti, Beef Tartare and Sirloin Steak for the perfect Dorian experience,' says Tracy. Given its popularity, it can be tough to score a reservation, but owner Chris D'Sylva holds spaces for valued clients. Take note: the restaurant is said to keep a logbook of customer behavior so be on their good side and you'll get a spot next time. , 105, 107 Talbot Rd, London W11 2AT Canteen Helmed by two The River Café alumni, this walk-in only restaurant serves up flavor-driven, impeccably crafted Italian food. In less than a year since it opened, the casual-fine spot has won over critics and crowds who enthusiastically queue for a table. British newspapers applaud its nonchalant atmosphere and dishes that rival those savored on an Italian holiday—all without a hefty price tag. 'The menu changes daily but if the Dark Chocolate Mouse is available, you must get it!' 310 Portobello Road, London W10 5TA Sally Clarke is one of the first chefs to champion seasonal British food in London. (Photo by Maurice ROUGEMONT/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images) Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images Sally Clarke's A Notting Hill institution, proprietor Sally Clarke has welcomed more VIPs than you can list over the last 40 years, who come to enjoy simple, seasonal plates served in an unpretentious atmosphere. It's one of those spots that's universally loved, thanks to genuine hospitality led by Clarke herself. 'Lucien Freud ate lunch here every day and Sally herself sat for him twice a week for two years,' says Lowy. 'The private dining room features etchings that he gifted her.' , 122–124 Kensington Church Street, Notting Hill, London W8 4BH Sol's, Sol's Sister and Foreign Exchange News A 10-minute walk from Notting Hill Gate and you'll reach this triumvirate of cool: Sol's, a wine bar and deli; Sol's Sister, a florist next door; and Foreign Exchange News, a cafe-meets-currency exchange that also sells beautiful magazines. These are Tracy's go-to for a casual bite and a bit of shopping. 'They're all next door to each other. If anything, head to Sol's for the area's best negroni.' , 25 Leinster Terrace, London W2 3ET; , 266 Leinster Terrace, London W2 3ET; Foreign Exchange, 22 Leinster Terrace, London W2 3ET WHERE TO SHOP The famous Portobello Market gift store on Portobello Road in Notting Hill, London. (Photo by Yui Mok/PA Images via Getty Images) PA Images via Getty Images Rellik Notting Hill's vintage stores are heaven for treasure hunters, especially if you're looking for a curated edit. 'This is one of London's best vintage designer stores with an archive dating back to the 60s,' shares Tracy. Whether you're after a classic Yves Saint Laurent ensenmble, a Phoebe Philo-era Celine piece or something from Comme des Garçons or Issey Miyake, this shop close to Portobello Market is your best bet. ; 8 Golborne Road, London W10 5NW One Of A Kind Archive Established in 1994, this store draws fashion stylists and museum curators alike. Tracy says this is definitely 'one of the best, perfect for those seeking Noughties-style or that rare John Galliano piece'. The store reportedly has a collection of over 5,000 pieces, with new additions weekly. ; 259 Portobello Road, London W11 1LR Solange Azagury-Partridge 'She's the British jewellery designer behind the Hot Lips rings,' explains Lowy about this distinctive talent whose signature creation has been worn by every it-girl from Dua Lipa to Rihanna. The jewellery and interiors designer got her start at her Notting Hill workshop in 1995, and recently opened a new flagship store on Bond Street, Mayfair. Her work is featured in the permanent collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum, as well as at the Les Arts Décoratifs at the Louvre Museum in Paris. ; 27 Chilworth Street, London W2 3HA WHERE TO VISIT Trellick Tower is an iconic high rise Brutalism apartment designed by the architect Erno Goldfinger. (Photo by: Chris Harris/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Trellick Tower 'You'll either love it or hate it,' says Tracy about this iconic Brutalist tower block designed by Erno Goldfinger. When it was built in 1972, this was the highest residential building in Europe and it remains the tallest in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea today. ; 5 Golborne Road, London W10 5NH Leighton House Museum London has plenty of museums, but if you're after something off-the-beaten-path then it's worth carving an afternoon for a visit to Leighton House Musuem, which marks its centenary in 2026. 'This is a hidden gem that was the home and studio of Victorian artist Fredric Leighton,' shares Tracy. ; 12 Holland Park Road, London W14 8LZ The Coronet Theatre 'It's a small late Victorian theatre that originated as an off West End theater,' notes Tracy. In 1923, it became a cinema until it was transformed into The Coronet Theatre—a London home featuring 'the best theater, dance, poetry, music and visual art from around the world.' ; 103 Notting Hill Gate, London, W11 3LB MORE FROM FORBES Forbes What To Expect When Olympia, London's Cultural Landmark, Opens In 2025 By Kissa Castaneda Forbes A Craft Lover's Guide To Mayfair: 9 Ateliers For One-Of-A-Kind Finds By Kissa Castaneda Forbes Art Deco Is Trending Again—See Inside These Reimagined Gems In London By Kissa Castaneda Forbes Can Whisky Foster Creativity? The Dalmore Luminary Series Says Yes By Kissa Castaneda Forbes 'The Brutalist' On Tour: 5 Concrete Hotels Made For Brutalism Lovers By Kissa Castaneda
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Travel + Leisure
3 days ago
- Travel + Leisure
Maryland's Chic Coastal Capital Is the Perfect Summer Escape—and It Just Got a New Boutique Hotel With a Speakeasy
With its scenic location along the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland's capital, Annapolis, is a popular day trip destination from Washington, D.C. (just 45 minutes away). But with the opening of 86 State Circle, a new boutique hotel, visitors now have a compelling reason to linger a little longer in the historic waterfront town. The hotels main dining room. Located across the street from the Maryland State House, 86 State Circle overtook the former 19th-century home of Alexander Randall, who served as the state's attorney general. The original house has gone through many iterations before becoming a nine-room boutique hotel that still retains the feeling of a private residence. The transformation was led by Severn Grove Hospitality Group, whose founders, Clinton Ramsden and Cody Monroe—both graduates of the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis—are deeply invested in preserving the town's architecturally significant buildings. 86 State Circle is the newest addition to their portfolio, which already includes several historic hotels in Maryland's capital: 134 Prince, Flag House Inn, and 1313 West. Checking into 86 State Circle is like visiting a friend's home—there's no front desk (the innkeeper greets you upon arrival) and no keys (guests are given a code to access their room). Additionally, the downstairs speakeasy-inspired bar, The Black Pearl, serves cocktails exclusively to hotel guests. The nine rooms and suites are named after key figures in Maryland history, including writer Edgar Allan Poe, Queen Anne, and William Paca. Many of the townhouse's original 19th-century details and craftsmanship have been preserved, including the tall ceilings and oversized windows, ornate millwork, period moldings, and wainscoting. Yet the interiors are modern and sophisticated, with serene, spa-like decor including neutral furnishings, matte metals, ambient lights, soaking tubs, and heated bathroom floors. An inviting front porch and a double parlor on the first floor serve as the hotel's common areas. Until breakfast service becomes available, guests can grab coffee down the street, at Old Fox Books & Brown Mustache Coffee, and indulge in pastries from Cocoa and Pearl Bakery, which serves freshly baked goods from a docked boat. A coffee cart, Oscar's Coffee, is parked nearby. The Black Pearl is a guest exclusive invitation-only lounge. No visit to Annapolis is complete without a sail on the Chesapeake Bay. The hotel has partnered with Darling Charters, a woman-owned and captained company, which offers bespoke sailings for couples and small groups, featuring charcuterie spreads, wine, and cashmere throws. After a sundown sail, stop for crabs and local brews at the always buzzy The Choptank. Or dine at one of Annapolis' best restaurants, Leo, serving a sophisticated take on seafood classics like blue catfish dip and roasted oysters, along with some unique dishes, such as Susquehanna snakehead. Nightly rates at 86 State Circle start from $399, and you can book your stay at
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Restaurant shares 'bitter disappointment' after more than 20 complaints from local residents
The former Holm House in Penarth, a luxury boutique hotel on the seafront has reopened with a new restaurant from the team behind popular Cardiff venue, Silures. It opened its doors to guests for the first time on Friday, July 11, but just two weeks later they have faced more than 20 complaints raised by local residents. The complaints have meant that Silures Penarth can no longer serve alcoholic drinks on the premises, and will have to wait longer for their alcohol licence to come through due to significant delays. The hotel originally closed in March 2024 due to rising costs and changing market conditions post-pandemic. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here. READ MORE: One of Cardiff's most popular pubs announces 'final innings' and last day's trading READ MORE: The Welsh market town that 'used to be brilliant' but traders say has been ruined by the perfect storm The team behind Silures Penarth shared a statement on Instagram saying: "It's with bitter disappointment that due to over 20 complaints raised by local residents on the reopening of Holm House's Restaurant & Bar, from July 28th-August 11th, we are unable to serve alcoholic drinks to our guests. "There'll be exceptions made on August 2nd and 10th, which we'll be utilising temporary licensing (also known as 'TEN' - Temporary Events Notice) for to honour existing event bookings. "Up to now, our focus alongside the bedroom management team has been to open Silures at Holm House in the best possible way, as early as possible. By doing so, we've needed to apply for temporary licensing whilst our permanent application went through the standard process. "Due to complaints raised, our application has been significantly delayed and we have unfortunately exhausted the maximum number of 'TEN' days available." They continued: "With this update, we are now inviting diners during this period to bring their own alcohol free of charge (without corkage). All guests booked during this period will be notified. We sadly can only accommodate diners and those ordering soft or hot drinks in the bar, garden and lounge areas."We'd like to thank all guests who have dined with us up to now, and those planning to in the near future- Daf & Andrei" Social media users have flooded the comments of the post to share their support. Some people have asked how they can help and others have wished the team a speedy resolution. One user said: "Oh no! Sorry to hear that. It'll be a temporary blip and you'll be up and running before long again." Another added: "Absolutely crazy to see a local business have to jump through hoops of some people that have absolutely nothing better to do - especially given that the previous business terms were just this! "Not only do you support the local community through jobs, a place to go, local produce and adding a sense of community back to Penarth - we should be supporting businesses that want to take a chance in these climates not holding them accountable to some minor red tape. For this reason - (and I have had a wonderful dinner with you already) I will be booking again during this period. Hoping you move past this swiftly." A spokesperson for the Vale of Glamorgan Council have said that the license is still being determined and the next committee meeting when the decision is due to be made on August 12.
Zawya
6 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Swiss-Belhotel International expands in Africa with signing of Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Expanding its footprint in Africa's thriving hospitality sector, Swiss-Belhotel International has announced the signing of a new 5-star property, Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The agreement was formalised between Swiss-Belhotel International and the owning company Astra Capital Limited, marking a significant milestone for both parties in delivering a sophisticated new hospitality offering to one of East Africa's most dynamic markets. Strategically located in Masaki, the high-end area on the prestigious Msasani Peninsula of Dar es Salaam, this distinctive boutique hotel is currently under construction and is being developed to offer discerning travellers an elegant blend of contemporary design, personalised service, and world-class facilities. The hotel is expected to open in the first quarter of 2027. Mr. Joel C. Makanyaga, Owner of Astra Capital Limited, stated: 'We are glad to collaborate with Swiss-Belhotel International, a globally respected brand known for its operational expertise and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Together, we look forward to creating a destination that reflects the vibrant spirit of Dar es Salaam and offers a memorable stay for both local and international guests.' Mr. Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, said, 'We are proud to partner with Astra Capital Limited and Mr. Joel C. Makanyaga on this exceptional project in Tanzania. Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam represents our commitment to bringing the Swiss-Belhotel International standard of excellence to new and exciting markets. Tanzania's tourism and business sectors continue to show remarkable growth, and this property will be a flagship for our boutique brand in the region, combining international expertise with a deep understanding of local culture and hospitality.' Upon completion, Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam, will feature 72 well-appointed rooms and suites, complemented by a range of upscale amenities including two restaurants, a stylish bar, a spa, swimming pool, and conference rooms. The property will also feature select retail spaces for lease, catering to the evolving lifestyle and business needs of both guests and the local community. Mr. Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President - Operations & Development, EMEAI and Senior Vice President - Group Human Resources & Talent Development at Swiss-Belhotel International, added: ' Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam' will bring a fresh and distinctive approach to upscale boutique hospitality in Tanzania. Its location in Masaki, one of the most sought-after districts in Dar es Salaam, is ideal for both business and leisure travellers. With thoughtfully curated experiences, exceptional dining venues, wellness facilities, and modern business amenities, this hotel is being designed to deliver a seamless blend of comfort, style, and service excellence that today's guests expect from Swiss-Belhotel International.' With a presence in over 20 countries, Swiss-Belhotel International continues to strengthen its global portfolio with properties that align with the evolving preferences of modern travellers. The addition of Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam reinforces the group's expansion strategy in Africa and its dedication to providing world-class hospitality in key destinations worldwide. About Swiss-Belhotel International Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Hong Kong, Swiss-Belhotel International is recognized as one of the world's fastest-growing hotel management groups. With 150+* hotels and projects in 20 countries, Swiss-Belhotel International provides professional and expert management services for hotels, resorts and serviced residences. The Group's distinct blend of Swiss hospitality and Asian-inspired service sets them apart. Each property carries the Swiss-Belhotel International hallmark, symbolizing quality and commitment to value. This dedication echoes their philosophy of 'Passion and Professionalism™'.
Al Bawaba
6 days ago
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Swiss-Belhotel International Expands in Africa with Signing of Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Expanding its footprint in Africa's thriving hospitality sector, Swiss-Belhotel International has announced the signing of a new 5-star property, Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The agreement was formalised between Swiss-Belhotel International and the owning company Astra Capital Limited, marking a significant milestone for both parties in delivering a sophisticated new hospitality offering to one of East Africa's most dynamic located in Masaki, the high-end area on the prestigious Msasani Peninsula of Dar es Salaam, this distinctive boutique hotel is currently under construction and is being developed to offer discerning travellers an elegant blend of contemporary design, personalised service, and world-class facilities. The hotel is expected to open in the first quarter of Joel C. Makanyaga, Owner of Astra Capital Limited, stated: 'We are glad to collaborate with Swiss-Belhotel International, a globally respected brand known for its operational expertise and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Together, we look forward to creating a destination that reflects the vibrant spirit of Dar es Salaam and offers a memorable stay for both local and international guests.'Mr. Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, said,'We are proud to partner with Astra Capital Limited and Mr. Joel C. Makanyaga on this exceptional project in Tanzania. Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam represents our commitment to bringing the Swiss-Belhotel International standard of excellence to new and exciting markets. Tanzania's tourism and business sectors continue to show remarkable growth, and this property will be a flagship for our boutique brand in the region, combining international expertise with a deep understanding of local culture and hospitality.'Upon completion, Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam, will feature 72 well-appointed rooms and suites, complemented by a range of upscale amenities including two restaurants, a stylish bar, a spa, swimming pool, and conference rooms. The property will also feature select retail spaces for lease, catering to the evolving lifestyle and business needs of both guests and the local Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President - Operations & Development, EMEAI and Senior Vice President - Group Human Resources & Talent Development at Swiss-Belhotel International, added: 'Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam' will bring a fresh and distinctive approach to upscale boutique hospitality in Tanzania. Its location in Masaki, one of the most sought-after districts in Dar es Salaam, is ideal for both business and leisure travellers. With thoughtfully curated experiences, exceptional dining venues, wellness facilities, and modern business amenities, this hotel is being designed to deliver a seamless blend of comfort, style, and service excellence that today's guests expect from Swiss-Belhotel International.' With a presence in over 20 countries, Swiss-Belhotel International continues to strengthen its global portfolio with properties that align with the evolving preferences of modern travellers. The addition of Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam reinforces the group's expansion strategy in Africa and its dedication to providing world-class hospitality in key destinations worldwide.
