Along the coast from the better-known French Riviera, is the arguably more scenic Italian Riviera, and here, at Rapallo, perched on a cliff, is the Excelsior Palace Hotel, one of only two five-star hotels on the Portofino Coast. 45 minutes’ drive from the airport, it’s an ideal weekend getaway. The Excelsior Palace Hotel first
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Dramatic floor to ceiling windows overlook the unspoilt Watergate Bay with miles and miles of golden sands. A few surfers, a handful of dog walkers and a noisy group of seagulls arguing over a piece of fish were the only beach occupants on this rather overcast summer’s day. Inside, the squishy sofas, daily papers and
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One of the great things about the five star May Fair hotel is its position, down a side street opposite Green Park tube station affording the best of both worlds – it’s relatively quiet yet walking distance to all that central London has to offer. Because it’s a bit tucked away, it’s easy to
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An old ferry boat with 678 portholes makes for an oddly restful place to be pampered, finds Olivia Greenway
With its French influences, you know that this city will not let you down as far as food, fashion and chic is concerned. But Montreal has even more to crow about – the world’s first floating spa. Handily moored downtown, the former ferry boat is entirely devoted to being a floating indulgence. Unlike many spas,
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I’ve been to so many places that pretend to be spas. Grayshott Spa in Surrey is the real deal. There is a chill out area where you help yourself to limitless tea and coffee. As well as the spa proper’s treatment rooms, there is a steam room, two steam pods and plunge pool. Changing
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Recently refurbished, the spa at the Dorchester may lack a swimming pool, but in all other respects, it’s a lovely place to unwind. I had had a wonderful facial here before and was keen to see whether the new set-up would be as good. Situated in the basement of the hotel, if you are
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