One of Lefay's eco-chic luxe junior suites

With the hulking snow-capped escarpments of the Italian Alps to the north and the silvery waters of Lake Garda below, the view from the pool at Lefay Resort and Spa takes some beating. As I swam in lazy loops through water so warm it practically qualified as a bath, I had to rack my brains to think of anywhere I’d stayed that had boasted a similarly impressive vista.

Lefay is one of a new breed of Italian hotels characterised by putting the environment at the forefront of its hospitality, along with a typically Latin focus on luxury. What’s more, although Lefay is green, it’s certainly no slouch in the style stakes. The minimalist lobby with its dark wood and violet accents would look at home in a New York boutique hotel, while its 90 rooms and suites come complete with huge bath tubs, luxuriously squashy beds and balconies boasting stunning views of the mountains. Apart from a small card asking you not to have your sheets changed every day, the eco side of Lefay is well hidden. And that’s a bit of a shame because much of what the hotel does is impressive. There’s a huge biomass boiler tucked away behind the hotel, which converts leftover chips from the local furniture industry into power and compost. The olive oil that turns up in the spa and at every meal is made from the hotel’s own olives; even the pool contributes, with water from the three pools used to keep Lefay’s 11-acre grounds green.

The green ethos chimes beautifully with the hotel’s magical Lake Garda location, which apart from being exceptionally easy on the eye, boasts an eco-system that’s entirely unique. The lake has its own microclimate, which means, unusually for northern Italy, that citrus groves are common and temperatures never drop too low. There’s plenty to do in the area, with the pretty village of Gargnano nestled on the lakeshore immediately below the hotel, and the magical André Heller Botanical Garden a few miles away in the small town of Gardone Riviera. However, you don’t really have to leave the hotel to find something to do. Not surprisingly for a hotel that has ‘spa’ in its name, Lefay boast a huge wellness centre complete with two saunas, a Jacuzzi and a salt water pool, as well as an tempting array of treatments. I tried the signature massage which uses a lemon-scented version of the hotel’s home grown olive oil and includes the sort of slow, sweeping strokes that send you to sleep. It was ridiculously relaxing, and followed with a 30 minute stint in the salt water pool, left my skin soft and scale-free.

Lefay is so chilled that most guests don’t bother changing out of the hotel-supplied dressing gown and flip flops during their stay. At breakfast and lunch, flocks of white towelling-clad guests could be seen tucking into the beautiful Italian fare, made all the better by the menu’s reliance on locally grown and organically produced ingredients. Thanks to the focus on wellbeing and the care for the environment, it’s impossible to leave Lefay without feeling a little bit healthier. If you do (as I did) get tempted by the cocktail bar and its fabulous line in Singapore Slings, a morning spent in the outdoor pool admiring the Alps is an unparalleled hangover cure. So too are the huge buffet breakfasts complete with local cured meat, cheese and moreish fresh bread. But wonderful though the food, the eco initiatives and the spa are, the real reason to go to Lefay is to relax.

With the nearest village (Gargnano), a ten-minute drive away, it takes real effort to leave the hotel grounds and explore. Then again, with plenty of spa treatments, walks galore and a pool with a view to enjoy, you don’t really need to.

For more information and to book, see the Lefay Resort and Spa’s site. For package deals including flights, check the Kuoni website.

Lefay Resort and Spa's warm microclimate, serene surroundings and green credentials, make for a luxurious, relaxing getaway...

Two of the hotel's chic, sumptuous suites

There are any number of luxurious, beautifully-decorated London hotels in conveniently central locations. So what puts a hotel ahead of the competition? Three things: service, an attention to detail and going just that little bit further than one might expect. In the heart of Covent Garden, One Aldwych ticks all of these boxes, and so it’s little surprise that the five-star hotel is part of hospitality group The Leading Hotels Of The World.

Of course, location is important when selecting somewhere to stay in London, and the hotel’s situation a short stroll from the bustling cultural scene of the South Bank, yet within credit card-damaging distance of the boutiques of Covent Garden makes it an ideal spot to spend a a weekend break. That said, with the wealth of facilities on offer, you may just opt to spend your stay in the hotel itself; on hand are two restaurants, an ultra chic lobby bar, an intimate screening room and an indulgent spa complete with heated swimming pool and gym.

One Aldwych has 105 deluxe rooms, and our expansive suite had dramatic views over Waterloo Bridge and was decorated in modern style in a palette of elegant pale lilac and biscuit tones with original art works on the walls. Of course, you’ll be sleeping under the finest crisp Frette linen, and there’s all you could ask for when it comes to in-room entertainment and facilities – think flatscreen televisions, iPod docking stations and Nespresso coffee machines.

But from the moment you arrive, what really impresses about One Aldwych are the little details; fresh fruit and flowers are delivered daily and the dainty platter of macarons to welcome guests can’t fail to please. We loved the little notes giving updates on weather conditions (oh so essential in London!) and bulletin of local events and places to visit. Rather than the standard tourist sights, these were thoughtful choices: the latest accessories boutique and a recently-opened exhibition are the sort of highlights that only a Londoner would know about and choose to share. The minibar selection extends to include a book, as well as the usual range of sweet treats and snacks, and we absolutely loved the organic PlanTation toiletries in the bathroom.

If you’re opting to dine at one of the hotel’s restaurants, you’ll find yourself spoiled for choice; both Axis and Indigo serve contemporary British and continental cuisine with menus including regionally sourced produce such as Colchester crab and Dedham Vale fillet of beef. A mixture of new and traditional dishes mean that it’s a crowd-pleasing menu – steak frites and Caesar salad are safer choices but if you’re feeling adventurous you could try pasta with asparagus, black garlic butter and burnt lemon dressing, or the peanut butter and jam parfait. Situated in the entrance to the hotel, The Lobby Bar’s selection of cocktails really go all out to impress; a raspberry and rhubarb Champagne spritzer is accented with a hint of bitters and accessorised with a striking flow of dry ice, while the drinks menu changes regularly to reflect fresh seasonal ingredients. It’s obvious that both the chefs and the barmen have the imagination and skill to create something new, different and unusual to please residents and non-residents alike.

Londoners should definitely try out the hotel’s Martini Movies program; the in-house cinema screens a selection of independent, interesting films (think Midnight in Paris and The Artist), meaning you can spend the evening relaxing with a martini and popcorn after a three-course dinner. Also available on the extra-curricular activities roster, the swimming pool and spa provide the ultimate post-shopping pick-me-up. Treatments use the exclusive Natura Bissé skincare range, with tailored facials and personalised massages to help guests unwind. Meanwhile, you can’t help but relax in the 18-metre pool, thanks to an underwater music system and serene mood lighting – plus the warm waters are non-chlorinated, using a chemical-free mineral cleaning system. That would be that attention to detail, yet again.

The level of service on offer at the One Aldwych is truly unparalleled; the highly-trained staff succeeds in attending to your every need, with a warm welcome and attentive manner which is friendly without ever straying into over-familiar territory. We were really impressed with the hotel’s thoughtful approach to environmental practices and sustainability – an element of hospitality which is so often overlooked, but one which proves that the One Aldwych goes that little bit further, and exceeds the expectations that one might have of a luxury hotel.

For more information and to book, visit the One Aldwych website.

One Aldwych's relaxing swimming pool and indulgent spa treatments provide the ultimate decadent post-shopping pick-me-up...

Head to London for Louboutins at night...

This month’s events round-up takes on a cultural theme, from an award-winning Italian pop-up restaurant to a very British festival for the Diamond Jubilee, these are the activities we’ll be pencilling into our diaries….

Midnight Culture Fix

Friday 18^th May marks the start of this year’s Museums at Night, a three-day celebration of arts, history and heritage, running at various venues throughout the UK. From a lime jelly sea display in Bristol, created by quirky duo Bompas & Parr, and live taxidermy performed by Polly Morgan in Liverpool, to a late night Christian Louboutin retrospective at the London Design Museum, there’s a huge choice of exhibitions to visit. The Great Tower Sleepover at Dover Castle, Museums at Night nightclub in Eastbourne created by artists Bob and Roberta Smith, and a Lucien Freud-inspired evening of poetry, film and life drawing at The National Portrait Gallery are also among the highights.

For the full schedule of events, see the Museums at Night website. 

Game, Set, Match!

On May 17th, the Roland Garros stadium in Paris welcomes the crowds for the 2012 French Open tournament. Tennis enthusiasts will no doubt have booked their tickets months ago, for the rest of us there’s still a chance to sit in on one of the biggest sporting events of the year, ideally with a glass of fizz in hand, to watch the likes of Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray and Maria Sharapova in action. Failing that, head to Paris City Hall where the tournament’s major matches are airing on a big screen.

See the Roland Garros website for the full schedule and ticket information.

A Feast For All The Senses

Kofler & Kompanie is returning to London for another one of its award-winning pop-up restaurants, or ‘dining experiences’ as it calls them, taking over 50 St James’s Street from 9^th May to 30^th June. The theme, Italians Do It Better, sees six Michelin-starred chefs, including Giorgio Locatelli, Viviana Varese and Accursio Craparo, collaborate to create and serve up a mix of traditional and ‘forward-thinking’ Italian dishes, giving diners a taste of the country’s varied culinary offerings. The Grade II listed Mayfair venue will be temporarily decked out in Italian works from the Gazelli Art House, a bar serving up cocktails from the team at 69 Colebrooke Row, and a line-up of live music acts.

Caper in Copenhagen

Though the Danish capital’s annual carnival started out life as a street party, today it’s a much bigger event involving a plethora of colourful parades and floats. Taking place over three days from May 25th, you can expect to see some very extravagant costumes as Copenhagen residents dance their way through the centre of the city to the sound of Latin rhythms. Meanwhile open air stages in Fælledparken play host to a variety of events and concerts, spanning musical genres from the crème de la crème of Danish electro to reggae, afrobeat and bossa nova.

For more infromation, see the Copenhagen Carnival website.

Book ahead – Diamond Jubilee Festival

We do like an excuse to drink Champagne at RIH, and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in June is as good a reason as any to release a cork or two. We suggest you do it with friends, and head to London’s Battersea Park on Sunday 3^rd June (12pm-7pm) where you’ll find lots of other ways to toast the occasion. The one-day Diamond Jubilee Festival is an ode to music, art, design, fashion, food and film from the past 60 years. Norman Jay is among the impressive line-up of DJs taking to the decks; The Noisettes are bringing their energetic sound to The Crown Stage, and the 1952 Bandstand plays host to acts such as Paul Taylor’s Teadance Orchestra. The Diamond Geezer pop-up pub sees elderly ex-punks collaborate with London’s Pearly Kings and Queens to perform Sex Pistols covers, and makers of delicious baked treats, Konditor and Cook will be creating a three metre high portrait of The Queen with 3,120 cakes. One’s things for sure, it’s set to be a right royal knees-up.

A little flavour of what Pret a Diner will be serving up at 50 St James’s Street…

Fox&Squirrel's Penelope Sacorafou

Penelope Sacorafou is one half of the talented young team behind Fox&Squirrel; a London based company which creates curated walks around the city. Rather than focusing on traditional tourist attractions and historic sites, Fox&Squirrel’s unique tours offer participants an authentic view of London, curated by creative professionals who love their city and are excited to share it with others. Guides include art experts, stylists, photographers and foodies, all brimming with local knowledge and fascinating tidbits that show a different side of the city and how diverse creative currents contribute to London’s evolution – on a daily basis.

Aside from heading up Fox&Squirrel, Penelope has many other strings to her bow, working on fashion communication campaigns, contributing to various art and fashion publications, and undertaking academic research on the effects of the Rich Mix arts venue on East London and its ethnic minorities. Plus she’s currently running in heels preparing for the Fox&Squirrel pop-up shop, a project in collaboration with Guts for Garters! We spoke to the entrepreneurial wunderkind to find out a little more about Fox&Squirrel’s fashion, vintage, art, architecture and food walks, and why she’s still every bit as in love with London.

Have you always wanted to be an entrepreneur?

To be honest it came into place rather organically. I graduated from King’s College with an MA in the arts at the peak of a recession. Every other young lady wanted to be involved in the arts, so in the midst of this rat race I had to distinguish myself from a very talented and highly-educated crowd. I set up a blog, Fox&Squirrel, which gave me a platform to write  about the arts while my great friend JoJo wrote about fashion. This immediately became a platform for us to showcase our knowledge and expertise. As our audience was mainly foreigners wanting to find out creative happenings in London, we eventually started to receive requests from our readers to not only inform them but to also offer them the experience. And, that is how Fox&Squirrel Walks came about, and I suppose how I ended up as an entrepreneur.

Why did you set up Fox&Squirrel?

Initially, Fox&Squirrel was a blog – a platform for creative exchange – through which I spoke to my compatriots in the Balkans about London. I wanted to tell them there was much more to the British capital than Oxford Circus and Piccadilly. At the same time, it offered me the opportunity to meet people in the creative industries. The blog eventually grew and became so popular our readers started to request that we guide them through London. I realised that a number of talented and highly educated people were in the same position, and so I set up the walks element. The mission was, and remains to showcase London’s creative make-up whether that’s the guides who are art curators, art historians or stylists, or the talent we feature on our itineraries.

What do the lifestyle walks involve?

We came up with lifestyle walks as an umbrella term for our walks and services that conveyed the message that our walks were centred around our client’s lifestyle and our walks were an experience that showcased the way London caters to every individual lifestyle. We also came to the realisation that our individual lifestyles dictate where and what we do in our city. Coming to terms with this we realised that our mobility is restricted by our lifestles.  So, our walks were also about getting out of those self- imposed territorial boundaries.

Why London?

Well, for one I live here so it naturally made sense. But, I also think that London is the perfect city to start our luxury walking company. Geographically, London is very flat, therefore walking is easy, it is large and diverse so many nooks and crannies to explore. It is constantly changing and evolving, which makes many people feel a bit lost and unable to keep up. It is the world’s cultural and creative hub but it is not accessible to all. Londoners and visitors are both fascinated by this – but need a service such as Fox&Squirrel to assist in experiencing these scenes.

What are the virtual walks?

Virtual walks are the main feature of our bi-weekly newsletter. We ask a London personality to suggest a walking route in an area in London, pinpointing their favourite bars, cafes, shops, and in general local independent businesses. Our mission is to support indies but to also get people out walking and discovering their city.

What kind of people come on the tours generally?

That is an interesting question. We attract quite a diverse demographic. Our public art walks that take place once a month on a Saturday afternoon attract anyone from young professionals to pensioners, both female and male. Our private fashion walks tend to attract more women, and we cater to clientele from teenagers to recently retired ladies. We also have had several walks for men, and though these are mainly booked by their female partners, our gentleman fashion walks have been great successes.

Participants on a London fashion walk...

How did you get to where you are today and would you do anything differently?

I have a good team of creative, dedicated and innovative individuals. Natasha Hoare- who heads the art walks- is a great team player. She loves the brand and the art walks so we are constantly talking about ways we can improve and other projects we can get involved in. Cassie Beadle and Rachel Chudley who head the vintage walks are an encyclopedia of vintage destinations and are constantly researching and sharing their knowledge.

And, finally Fox&Squirrel’s business developer Alexia Latham is so energetic and in love with Fox&Squirrel, I cannot think of a better person to spend my working days with steering Fox&Squirrel into new avenues. I think communication and a good team are essential for any start -up and I would advise anyone at the beginning of their project to seriously consider creating a team of people that share the enthusiasm before starting. I think that is what I would have done differently, I would not have started solo. It is too much to do and you need others to make sure you give yourself reality checks.

Who helped you along the way?

Everyone I mentioned above, but also my family. My father gave me the confidence to start off. He is an entrepreneur so he knows the highs and lows that come with starting your own business. He also gave me vital advice on company structures. While my mother has always been a source of comfort whenever I have had a tough day.

Who inspires you?

My grandfather. From a young age he told me to make sure I love my job as that is where I will spend most of my life. From my Greek side I stem from a long line of entrepreneurs who are self-made. All of them at some point in their lives have become refugees, losing their homes and left with nothing.  But, they all managed to make it for themselves with sheer determination, and great work ethics.

What do you think is the biggest problem in British society today and what is the most positive thing?

Implementing sterile regeneration programmes that as a result break-up  communities and drive the less fortunate out… London has thrived and developed because of its diversity and we need to make sure that it remains so. Generating regeneration programs that are based on shopping malls is destructive. Communities and areas need to be able to develop organically, in a bottom up way rather than a top down manner. The most positive thing is the diversity and the sensitivity towards achieving equality.

Do you feel British or European?

This is a difficult question. My father is Greek and my mother is English, while I grew up in Cyprus. European would be ideal as it could include all of those nationalities and cultural influences, however, with the current European crisis and particularly the financial turmoil in Greece I am feeling more and more upset with the European nationality. In London, this question is rather mundane. London is such a melting pot of nationalities it does not matter what one feels. I would like nationalities to devolve to the cities. I feel like a Londoner, (and that is not playing into  Ken Livingstone re-election campaign!)

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Radio 4…

What couldn’t you live without?

I am not sure actually. I could not function without my laptop but then sometimes I long for time away from it- so I suppose holidays!

Fox&Squirrel's monthly public art walks attract anyone and everyone; from young professionals to pensioners, both female and male

Dream purchase?

A house with a garden and wooden floor boards.

Favourite movie?

Labyrinth with David Bowie. I used to watch it all the time when I was a child, and to this day it still has the same effects on me as it had when I was 10.

Favourite European city and why?

London, is home so naturally I favour London. But, saying that my origins are in Athens, and with the current dire straits it is in I am morally obligated to promote Athenian beauty, life, and culture. It is the crossroads between the Middle East and Europe and as a result of that the culture is unique , diverse and lively. I would suggest everyone visits it. Plus a myriad of islands are a short boat ride away from Athens, and they are all unique.

How do you stay motivated?

When people like Alice Revel, editor of Running in Heels, shares my enthusiasm for Fox&Squirrel. When managing a start up its absolutely mandatory to feel encouragement by other entrepreneurs. (Ed: Thanks Penelope, back at you!)

Desert island book?

I have recently challenged myself to read every single classic. At the moment I am reading 1984, so if I was stranded on an island tomorrow that would be my book.

Favourite bar?

I have many- but I recently discovered a speakeasy in Old Street that is still a bit of a secret and I like that so won’t be revealing it  but instead prompting you to go walkies and try to find it.

Favourite London places?

I love food so it must be St John’s Spitalfields, and I love going to the movies so my favourite cinema is Screen on the Hill.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In London, working for Fox&Squirrel.

What’s next for Fox & Squirrel?

You will have to follow us to find out. It is all go go go at the moment so many things are happening – most I cannot reveal.

Can you run in heels?

I can run in heels, I can even  play football in heels!

An Architecture & Food Walk with Fox & Squirrel and creative duo Art For Eating

Reykjavík's therapeutic thermal waters

Boasting a wealth of literature and arts, quirky fashion brands, roof top hot tubs, a geothermal beach, oh and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Northern Lights; Reykjavík has much to tempt jetsetters. We asked travel writers Lisa Shannen and Jane Appleton, co-authors of essential guide Frommer’s Iceland to share their insider tips on making the most of a trip to the cosmopolitan Icelandic capital they now call home.

You should visit Reykjavík because from the moment you land in the lunar landscapes of Keflavík, you realize you’re in a place like no other. Reykjavík’s unparalleled landscapes, other-worldly illuminations and combination of hip and wholesome, have made the world’s most northerly metropolis a popular alternative travel destination, winning all sorts of accolades from ‘Best Destination’ to ‘Best Vodka’.

The best thing about Reykjavík is how much punch this small city packs, with its wonderful mesh of traditional customs and cosmopolitan influences.

The worst thing about Reykjavík is that the pools aren’t open 24 hours. What’s a girl to do after 10pm (closing time) when in dire need of soaking in one of the city’s many divine hot tubs?

Reykjavík residents are very passionate about music, art and literature. Don’t be surprised if every other Icelander you meet is an author – Iceland has one of the highest literacy rates and has published more books per capita than any other country in the world.

Our favourite districts are the downtown area, where we often indulge in an organic brownie at Litli Bóndabærinn cafe, stroll through the Einar Jónsson sculpture garden, and soak in the hot tub on the roof of the city pool; and Rauðavatn Lake, outer Reykjavík, for walking, bird watching or enjoying the landscape on horseback.

Our favourite shops are Eymundsson, the country’s best bookstore where you can get lost on four floors while browsing through Iceland’s literary heritage, and any of the many little craft shops selling handmade local wares, such as lava candle-stick holders and felted wool garments.

When you’re in Reykjavík be sure to try the skyr. Think yogurt, but made from skimmed milk and technically a soft cheese. A guilt-free snack, topping for breakfast fruits, whipped with cream for dessert, or served as skyr brulée at restaurants. Mmmm…

Our favourite place to eat is Sægreifinn (The Seabaron) set by the harbour in an old fishing shack. Its ramshackle appearance adds atmospheric flavour to the bisque it’s famous for.

Start your night out at Kaffi Rósenberg, where the groove of local and international musical talent is contagious.

The best parties take place at Kaffibarinn or Boston, where locals and tourists debate philosophy, party with strangers and ignore the frequent comings and goings of A-list celebrities.

Reykjavík’s fashion scene is infectious. Beware, a few trips here and you may forget what casual means. The two main streets in particular are dotted with an unlikely number of local designer shops, with striking and original clothing; though not as weird as Björk might have led you to expect.

The most overrated sight in the area is the Viking ship sculpture by the sea, but the view of Mount Esja from there is marvellous.

To experience the city like a local, start your day with a swim in any of the city’s thermal pools, then head to Kaffismiðjan, the best coffee shop in town to mingle with Icelandic writers, artists and film directors.

Something you won’t find anywhere else is the thermal beach, with hot water piped in to make “a swim at the beach” possible this far north. By the light of the midnight sun or the northern lights, this becomes an exhilaratingly unique escapade.

Take home some Icelandic wool. It’s versatile and highly water resistant; one look at Icelandic sheep roaming the misty mountainsides and you can imagine why.

Make sure you pay a visit to the Viking Sun Voyager sculpture at sunset for atmospheric views of spectacular Mount Esja

A room with a breathtaking view...

The Shangri-La Paris has shaken up the Parisian hotel scene by offering an unparalleled standard of luxury in a setting fit for an Emperor, or his close relative…

In 1896, the great nephew of Napoleon I, Roland Bonaparte, moved into a bespoke new private residence on Paris’ left bank, in the heart of the luxurious Chaillot district. Throughout his life, Prince Roland indulged his penchant for exploring and collecting exotic herbs (his private collection of more than 3.5 million samples is still the biggest in the world today) by making many trips to Asia. It is both ironic and fitting then, that 75 years after he moved in, one of his favourite continents would give birth to a luxury chain of hotels, which, after a 20-year long search for the perfect Parisian property, would eventually debut in Europe with a princely 81-room hotel in his former residence.

In 2006, the Shangri-La team began a painstaking four-year renovation programme, passionately motivated to restore this private palace to its former empire regime glory. Under the supervision of prominent architect Richard Martinet and award-winning interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, leading French craftsmen and designers ensured that this masterpiece of belle époque architecture – ignored for some decades – would shine once more. The quality of their work was recognised when the French Ministry of Culture deemed the property a listed building for the first time in 2009.

From the moment of your arrival at Shangri-La Paris, your comfort is their priority. You are shown directly to, and around your room, where you can sit comfortably to do the check-in. In Chinese tradition, a welcome drink of hot Jasmine tea has been delivered in advance.

Luxury and history ooze from every last detail of the interior: the wallpapers, carpets, lighting and bath fixtures of Prince Roland’s era were researched intensively and integrated into 21st century designs. The blue, white and ecru-toned soft furnishings contrast with the custom-made jet black oriental-inspired furniture to fuse the best of French tradition and Asian aesthetics. The marble bathroom boasts a heated floor, rainfall shower, double sinks and a vast mirror with embedded TV screen (and remote!) – perfect for long, lazy, but entertaining baths. The generous selection of Bvlgari toiletries are perfumed with Chinese white tea, the group’s signature fragrance. The desk drawer accommodates an exhaustive stationary set, going as far as to provide cables to connect your laptop to the TV. In the beside drawer, you will find a copy of Lost Horizon, in which James Hilton describes a utopian haven of peace in outmost Tibet called ‘The Shangri-La’ – this passage and its values inspired both the name and ethos of the group. Being a guest at the Shangri-La really does make you feel like royalty, a fantasy you might indulge further if you opt for the Imperial Suite – 275m2 of listed living space set in the Prince’s former private apartments, which comes with its own private kitchen and dining area, with serving staff available for private events.

If you can divert your eyes to the window for a moment, you will very likely spot the Eiffel Tower – around half the rooms overlook la grande dame (by overlook, I mean you are almost close enough to touch). And if you are in one of the 33 rooms or suiteswith a generous private terrace, you can admire her from the open air (she is especially alluring in the evening, on the hour, when sparkling brightly).

The Shangri-La's restaurant L'Abeille boasts two Michelin stars and serves an exciting menu created by in-house chef Philippe Labbé

Renowned chef Philippe Labbé oversees the hotel’s three restaurants – two of which recently collected three Michelin stars between them. The Bauhinia occupies the heart of the hotel and is especially beautiful when bathed in daylight beneath its majestic 1920s glass ceiling. In the evening it offers a delicious mix of French and Asian cuisine, and also hosts the hotel breakfast, a Franco-Asian brunch at weekends, and piano-accompanied afternoon teatime during the week. The one-Michelin starred Shang Palace is an authentic Cantonese restaurant with a speciality in to-die-for Dim Sum, while the gourmet French restaurant L’Abeille (‘The Bee’ – the symbol of the Bonaparte household) deservedly scooped two stars in the recent awards.

The hotel bar offers a tantalizing array of European and Asian tipples – including four varieties of the Pink Lady (the signature cocktail created by Lady Mendl, a former resident) as well as a dazzling range of fine wines and rare liqueurs – all of which can be enjoyed in one of the hotel’s three historic lounges. Since the capacity of the hotel is relatively modest for a Shangri-La, all restaurants and the bar readily welcome non-residents.

The only thing missing at present is a swimming pool and spa – but construction is currently (and discreetly) underway. A 16mx5m pool will complement an 80m2 fitness centre offering personal training sessions, all exclusively for hotel guests. European and Asian-style massages will be available to guests in the comfort of their own rooms and suites. When the well-being space opens in 2013, the Shangri-La will be nothing short of perfect.

The breathtaking level of luxury, attention to detail and quality of service at the Shangri-La is simply unlike anything I’ve encountered in Europe, and must be attributed to Asian customs and sensibilities. In June, the Shangri-La will reach its important 18-month birthday – a crucial date which permits it to apply for the coveted ‘palace’ status, a classification bestowed on the absolute crème de la crème of Parisian hotels, only held by eight establishments at present. If the Shangri-La does not become the nineth, I will hands-down eat my beret!

Out of the Shangri-La hotel's 81 luxurious rooms and suites, Roland Bonaparte's former abode is the crème de la crème...

Gran Canaria

Averaging a sultry 26°C in summer and a tempting 20°C even in winter months, Gran Canaria is an island full of contradictions; from white sandy dunes to verdant green hills and rocky mountains. In the past, Gran Canaria holidays may have been linked to package resorts and mass tourism, but there’s much to explore off the beaten track; picturesque hillside towns and the island’s very own ‘Little Venice’, Puerto de Mogán are just a couple of ideas to get you started.

San Sebastián

Part of the Basque region, San Sebastián is a key destination for foodies. In addition to a handful of Michelin-starred restaurants in the town and its surrounding area, you’ll find delicious ‘pintxos’ on offer in most bars of the San Sebastián’s Parte Vieja, making for a relaxed, authentic dining experience. The town also plays host to numerous cultural and traditional events, including the San Sebastián International Film Festival which takes place every September.

Never-ending stretches of golden sands and warm turquoise waters make San Sebastián an idyllic holiday destination...

Granada

Visiting the Alhambra is a magical experience; built in the 14th century, the historic palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Spain’s most visited monuments, displaying the country’s fascinating Moorish past. And its dramatic location beside the snowcapped peaks of the Sierra Nevada make for more photo opportunities than one might have thought possible. Away from the dazzling sights of the Alhambra, the city itself is an enchanting mix of architecture, culture and history, making Granada a perfect place to spend a weekend break pottering around.

Benicàssim

On the Costa del Azahar in Valencia, Benicàssim was a typical Spanish resort town until the Festival Internacional de Benicàssim arrived in 1995, transforming it into a desirable destination for music fans from around the world. Since its inception, the four-day event has played host to bands and artists including The Strokes, Oasis, Sigur Rós and The Chemical Brothers. This year, festival-goers will be treated to performances from Bob Dylan, New Order, Little Dragon and Florence and the Machine, to namecheck but a few.

Barcelona

It would be hard to create a line-up of our favourite destinations in Spain without including one of the coolest cities in the country – not to mention in Europe! There’s so much to see and do in Barcelona that spending just a weekend there doesn’t do the city justice; from cultural institutions such as the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art and the Fundació Antoni Tàpies, to ultra-cool neighbourhoods like El Born and Gracia, there’s something to please culture vultures and fashionistas alike. Not to mention the incredible selection of restaurants. And the beach, of course!

Barcelona's El Born district is home to some of the city's most stylish bars, boutiques and restaurants - perfect for people watching!

Events from Sundance to Shakespeare...

Easter holidays and chocolate eggs, spring showers with a hint of summer sun, April is the month to get up and out. Here’s our round-up of things to do while you’re at it.

Experience Sundance Film Festival First

Previously the reserve of those with a plane ticket to Utah, the Sundance Film Festival makes its London debut this month. The event takes over the O2 arena from 26 to 29 April with a programme of American independent shorts, Q&As with the likes of talented siblings Martha and Rufus Wainwright, and – of course – as selection of feature-length films. The programme includes the UK premieres of 2 Days in New York, starring Julie Delpy and Chris Rock, environmental eye-opener Chasing Ice, and the Ry Russo-Young directed Nobody Walks. There’s also a round-up of special music events ranging from a one-off Placebo concert, to Massive Attack’s Tricky and songstress Martina Topley-Bird performing the Bristol rapper’s chilled out 1995 debut solo album Maxinquaye.

For schedule information and bookings visit the festival’s website.

Sample Italy’s Fine Fare

Kicking off on April 27, the annual Festa del Baccanale is a feast for the senses for lovers of Italian food and wine. Taking place in Italy’s Campagnano di Roma region (about 30km from Rome), the event entertains with colourful carnival floats, a donkey duel, food stalls championing regional specialities and seasonal delights such as cheese, sausages and artichokes, and plenty of fine local wine. A tasty culture fix.

Events run until 1^st May. Visit the website for more information.

Get Fashion’s Hottest Ticket

Head to the Musée des Arts Decoratifs in Paris to catch the newly launched Louis Vuitton-Marc Jacobs exhibition, for an insight in to the French fashion house’s founder and Jacobs’s 15 years so far as Artistic Director of the brand. Curated by acclaimed author and sartorial expert Pamela Golbin, the show boasts two floors of past collections and iconic designs, a look at the duo’s parallel lives and fashion contributions spanning the 19^th and 20^th centuries, as well as an insight into the changes to the industry over that time. There’s plenty to satisfy the greediest sartorial appetite.

Open until 16^th September 2012. Visit the official website for more information and booking.

The Bard’s Birthday

This April marks the 448^th birthday of William Shakespeare, and to mark the event the poet and playwright’s home town of Stratford-upon-Avon is hosting a weekend of events from 21-22 April. The varied programme includes everything from acting workshops and readings of his infamous works to a Celebration Luncheon. It’s part of the World Shakespeare Festival (WSF), produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company in collaboration with artists worldwide, which runs until September with a full calendar including live performances, events and exhibitions taking place at various locations across the UK.

The full schedule and booking information can be found here.

Book a Date at Bukhara

Award-winning Delhi restaurant Bukhara is flying over to the UK in May, chefs Manjit Gill and JP Singh and a sample of their staff in tow, to showcase its menu of signature tandoor dishes from the North West Frontier. From 17^th May to 1^st June, dribble-inducing delights such as Dal Bukhara (whole black lentils, tomatoes, ginger and garlic slow-cooked over coals for 18 hours), and Sikandari Raan (marinated whole leg of lamb), will be served up at it’s pop-up residence in London’s Sheraton Park Tower hotel, in a space curated by jewellery designer and actor Waris Ahluwalia. With multiple ‘best restaurant’ awards, this is one meal ticket that will sell out fast.

Bukhara at Sheraton Park Tower will be open for dinner from 17^th May to 1^st June. For more information and to book, see the Bukhara London site.

Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs: two centuries of elegant fashion, iconic designs and creative brilliance under one chic roof...

A cosy reception at the Kristiania hotel

I’ve had the pleasure of staying at many hotels all over the world, but there are only a handful that make me want to tie myself to the (fine Egyptian cotton-swathed) bed when it’s time to leave. Hotel Kristiania is one such whimsical smile-inducing stay. Some level of lushness can be expected from one of the Small Luxury Hotels in the World, but the warm welcome, homely feel, and genuine desire to deliver impeccably on every element of the visit (from the amber-scented candles burning away deliciously in various nooks, to the wax sealed envelope revealing the nine-course tasting menu we tried), are touches that make the Kristiania stand out above the rest.

From the outside, nestled amongst the Arlberg landscape, in the Austrian mountain village of Lech, Kristiania looks any other chalet hotel. Just outside the entrance, a giant rainbow-coloured spherical sculpture by Swiss artist Beat Zoderer is the only hint that there is more to Hotel Kristiania than initially meets the eye. Entering the hotel, one finds tiny wooden bird boxes, antique Persian carpets, a vast collection of contemporary art and a cupboard filled with the awards collected by Olympic skier Othmar Schneider, who built the hotel and whose grand daughter Gertrude Schneider runs the hotel today. The reception is furnished with gloriously mis-matched furniture simply begging to be lounged into, cocktail in hand.

Baked goods from the hotel’s kitchen are laid out from mid-morning to night, for guests to pick up as they’re passing by; just one of the welcoming surprises in store. Upstairs, a walk-in wardrobe Carrie Bradshaw would be impressed with, more amber-scented candles, pillow menu, tropical fruit, a cosy open fire, plush Parisian Ex Voto toiletries and balcony views of the mountains, all greeted us in room 29. The remaining 28 each boast individual designs, by Gertrude Schneider herself, showcasing items collected from the family’s travels and artwork by the likes of Heinz Mack, Felix Muller and Karina Wisniewska.

The hotel outlines its aims with a quote from Oscar Wilde: ‘You can do everything, but do it with style’. A phrase which rings true at Kristiania; they’ll unpack and re-pack your luggage, source your favourite book in time for your arrival, run you a bath exactly to your requirements, the list of services goes on. All that care and attention could amount to a rather claustrophobic affair, yet we were free to roam completely at ease.

And the food? From the cosy Kaminzimmer, serving savoury and sweet fondues and delicious list of a la carte dishes, to the Otto Wagner restaurant, which delivered more smiles and gasps of joy than I could possibly do justice with words, through the nine course tasting menu created by chef Harald Rindler, it’s food for the memory bank. Sommelier Irmgard Schneider has created a perfectly matched selection of old and new world wines, while the hot butter rum and Irish coffee night caps provided a perfect end to a long day on the slopes.

A warm welcome and homely feel in the lounge; one of the Kristiania's rooms, each individually designed by Gertrude Schneider

Beyond Kristiania

It would be all to easy to stay at Kristiania without taking time to venture out into the snowy landscape; beside the gourmet fare and sumptuous accommodation, there’s an indulgent spa, decorated in quirky 1970′s style. However, we’d recommend a little exercise – if only to prepare for the expansive fine dining opportunities!

The Lech Ski School is world renowned and even if you’ve never skiied before, you’ll be whizzing up and down the slopes in no time – it took us just four hours, thanks to the instructor’s patience and clear guidelines.  The resort itself is quite spread out so that it’s not too crowded; Lech is small, but there are enough bars, restaurants and shops to keep one fed, watered and entertained.

Covered in snow, Lech is the epitome of winter wonderland, with Nordic walking, tobogganing, para-gliding, ice fall climbing, horse drawn sleigh rides and ice skating, among the activities on offer. Come late spring and summer, when the powdered slopes are adorned with flowers and lush green, it makes for an equally magical place to explore on foot (over 340km). There’s plenty to do in the way of canyoning, rafting, open-air concerts, art and culture festivals and a heated swimming pool in the middle of the forest. Many of the activities are free with the Active Inclusive Card given to guests for summer stays over one night.

I must warn you though, despite the year-round leisure on offer, once you’ve stumbled inside the Kristiania, you may find yourself enjoying the once crowned Most Beautiful Village in Europe through the window, aforementioned cocktail and good book in hand. It really is a struggle to leave.

For more information and to book, see the Hotel Kristiania website.

During ski season, Lech is the epitome of winter wonderland, while in spring the slopes are adorned with flowers and lush green...

Activities: For ski tuition, we recommend Ski Lech, while lift passes can be obtained from Ski Arlberg. Ski and snowboard hire is available from Stroltz.

Getting there: SWISS operates 35 daily flights from London Heathrow, London City, Birmingham International, Manchester and Dublin to Zurich. Take the OBB train from Zurich to Langen Am Arlberg; a 15 minute taxi or bus ride from Lech. Swiss Air also serves Innsbruck airport, which is a 90-minute drive to Lech.

Chic cocktails and an incredible view...

Just beyond the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, La Vue is a luxury cocktail bar situated atop the 4-star, 34-storey Concorde Lafayette hotel.  The name says it all; with one whole wall of the bar made up of floor-to-ceiling windows, La Vue offers a stunning panoramic view of the City of Lights. No need for artwork on the walls or fancy decoration, Paris is the main attraction. Facing the windows is a zinc-topped bar that runs the length of the room and seems to propose every spirit, liqueur and cordial known to man. Luminous stalactites hand from the ceiling, changing coulour from cosy red to cool blue and vivid violet slowly and almost imperceptibly. It’s all very lounge, and terribly chic.

Choose one of the low tables with slouchy swivel seats offering an intimate space for the most stunning view of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Trimophe as well as the spider’s web of streets below. Since the installation of a million light bulbs on the 324-metre structure for the Millenium celebrations, the Eiffel Tower sparkles for the first ten minutes of every hour, and La Vue offers ringside seats to the show.

If you can tear your eyes from the view, the menu is definitely worth a look; Stephen Martin, who has been voted best mixologist in France, has created a cocktail list to suit even the most discerning palette. His special creations are divided into four groups: new takes on classics; elixirs for the ladies; concoctions for the dandys (Parisian men are all dandys); and a few new inventions of his own. The only-too-pleased-to-help staff will delight in explaining the exact balance of flavours in each glass and the relative merits of the Japanese shaking technique, the American method and simple stirring.

If you’re into pretty, fruit-based cocktails, the ladies’ menu is clearly the one to select. My Rive Gauche brought together white cranberry juice, Sauternes wine and vodka in a crisp and surprisingly citrus mélange, while my drinking partner tried a Parisienne that married silver tequila, amaretto and spiced liqueur. In the name of research, we also tried one of the more outrageous concoctions on the menu – a Pena Véra: a pint-sized glass of aloe vera juice, almond milk, coconut and fresh coriander. Unexpectedly refreshing, this “spa in a glass” used sharp redcurrants to bring out the flavour of the herb. For cocktail lovers bored of the usual mojitos and martinis, the menu is a breath of fresh air and can provide inspiration for new recipes that are certain to impress when entertaining at home.

Alcohol-free cocktails are also on the menu, as is a decent variety of excellent wines, all chosen by top sommelier Eric Bertaux with the same care and attention to detail as has been devoted to the cockatil creations. There’s also an impressive champagne list to choose from, along with a selection of spirits including organic vodka, aged cachaça and award-winning rums and tequilas.

Should you require a little more sustenance than liquid nourishment provides, chef Laurent Belijar and his team have put together an international assortment of finger foods. Here again, La Vue has gone for the “classics with a twist” theme: salmon and cream cheese bagels, tortilla wraps, sushi and foie gras. Perfect for sharing, each dish is elegantly presented and made with top-quality ingredients; as aperitif-style foods go, the selection on offer is pleasingly healthy.

La Vue is perfect for pre or postprandial drinks and nibbles on a special occasion, a late-night rendez-vous with a certain someone, or a ladies-only Sex and the City-style Friday night on the town. It’s achingly cool but unexpectedly welcoming and offers the last word in Parisian chic. Needless to say, there’s not a paper umbrella in sight.

For more information and to book. see La Vue’s website.

With one whole wall of the bar made up of floor-to-ceiling windows, La Vue offers a stunning panoramic view of the City of Lights...