L I KE A ROL L I NG S TONE
ROUND T R I P LONDON–WA L E S–LONDON SPENDING THE HOLIDAYS IN LONDON? THERE ARE SO MANY CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES TO CHOOSE FROM: WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK, CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL AT ROYAL ALBERT HALL, EXPERIENCING A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS AT KENSINGTON PALACE. VISITLONDON.COM HAS A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO ALL YULETIDE CELEBRATIONS.
Mayfair is elegant dining at its best. Rankin takes full advantage of Britain’s coastlines, selecting the finest seafood to grace his magnificent menu. After dinner, savor a nightcap at Manetta’s Bar. The sleek décor and a “Realist” cocktail collection channel 1930s literary giants Gertrude Stein, Agatha Christie, and James Joyce. No stay in London would be complete without afternoon tea served in the refined, India-inspired Drawing Room. flemings-mayfair.co.uk
WALES Although it makes up one- fourth of the United Kingdom, Wales is a country all its own, with a distinct and proud history, culture, and language. Its capital, Cardiff, boasts the
FLEMINGS RestandreviveatFlemingsinthe upscale London neighborhood of Mayfair. Its founder, Robert Fleming, worked in some of the premier noble households of the mid-nineteenth century. Eventually, Fleming and his wife, Mary, decided to open a hotel, channeling their vast experience in upscale service into accommodations of their very own. Remarkably, Flemings is
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conveniences of a big city with an endearing, small-town charm. The ancient city has undergone a renaissance, thanks in part to the plethora of programs filmed there. Indeed, some of the UK’s most iconic television programs in recent years, ranging from “Doctor Who” to “Sherlock,” were shot in Cardiff. Wales is the home of many outstanding athletes, including 2018 Tour de France champion Geraint Thomas and soccer star Gareth Bale. Comedians like Rhod Gilbert and Elis James share billing space with screen stars both past—like Richard Burton—and present, highlighted by Catherine Zeta Jones, Michael Sheen, Anthony Hopkins, and more. Plan your trip at visitwales.com Heir to a proud legacy of more than two millennia of rich Welsh history, Cardiff is crowned by Cardiff Castle, built on the site of a medieval fortress. Stroll down a winding path in Bute Park, located on the former grounds of a noble estate, before venturing inside to admire the extraordinary interior of the castle. The building features a historical cross-section, ranging from gilded Victorian apartments to World War II air raid shelters. THE PRINCIPAL ST. DAVID’S CARDIFF Bordering Cardiff Bay is yet another jewel in the city’s crown: the Principal St. David’s, part of the award-winning, UK-based Principal hotel group. Named after Wales’s patron saint, the five-star hotel is shaped like the hull of a ship.
still privately owned—by the Gulhati family—and has been for the last four decades. Spanning thirteen separate Georgian townhouses, Flemings recently updated its historic premises with a multi-million-pound renovation. The result is a seamless blend of the classic elegance of Regency architecture with plush, modern furnishings. Attention to detail is readily apparent in each of the hotel’s 129 sumptuous rooms. For those looking for long-term accommodations, check into one of Flemings’ ten expansive apartments. Even the royals would move into these individual
The modern interior aesthetic contrasts beautifully with Cardiff ’s historic architecture. Not surprisingly, its chic ambiance and spacious event venues make the waterfront Principal St. David’s a much sought-after location for weddings, conferences, and special occasions. Lovers of literature can
residences at the drop of a fascinator. The apartments have access to the hotel’s amenities with exclusive, private access to Half-Moon Street, which borders the property. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Shaun Rankin, who has appeared on popular UK culinary shows “Great British Menu” and “Masterchef ”, Flemings’ restaurant Ormer
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