Blog
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45… is a magic number
By Sarah Ratner
Hyde Park is such a beautiful place to be at Christmas time, Winter Wonderland, festive decorations and a general buzz of excitement. However with the cold weather very much upon us, why not look out onto it from the warmth and luxury of one of the suites at 45 Park Lane?
Visiting The Dorchester Collection’s most recent property last week, Antony and I soon appreciated why everyone is talking about this exciting new hotel. With its distinctive art deco interior, 45 is far more intimate and contemporary than its sister hotel across the road. However just because it is smaller, nothing has been sacrificed.
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When in Milan…
By Sarah Ratner
With Christmas fast approaching and lots of shopping to be done, I thought it would be a very sensible idea to pop over to Milan for the weekend. I was fortunate enough to be invited by The Dorchester Collection and with our flights courtesy of Alitalia, everything from start to finish was exceptional (and of course very chic…).
On arrival at the legendary Principe di Savoia it was clear to see why both royalty and top celebrities would always choose to stay there. Before even entering the hotel, it is impossible not to be impressed by its stunning exterior. However it all begins on walking through the revolving doors – the classic yet stylish interior, the unbeatable hospitality where nothing is too much, the delicious Italian food (I have never seen a breakfast like this before), the spa on the top floor where on a clear day you can see the mountains and the ‘very cool’ Principe Bar, vibrant and bursting with Italian fabrics this is the only place in Milan for a pre or post dinner drink.
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Wonderful, wonderful Copenhagen
By Martin Ellis
Wonderful, wonderful Copenhagen – that’s how the song goes. And a recent visit proved that this is indeed a well-earned title. Copenhagen is very proud of its reputation for sustainability and “green” efforts, and this is highlighted in their approach to business. Many of the hotels and venues operate very successful environmental policies, with one in particular claiming to source 15% of their power through solar energy. There are plenty of conference venues who boast enviable levels of green awareness, and wherever you go you have the feeling that the Danes are way ahead of most countries in this area.
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Turkey – it’s not just for Christmas
By Martin Ellis
I recently had the pleasure of a brief trip to Istanbul, and aside from the opening pun there really was nothing to groan about. The city is no stranger to Conference Contacts, as we have previously held events there with great success; but this is a city that could never fail to hold your attention, and mesmerise you with its wonderful architecture and eclectic mix of cultures. It’s hard not be left in awe at the craftsmanship of the Blue Mosque, and that was definitely one of the highlights; additionally you can look at what was once the largest church in the world, and is still standing after 1500 years. For the happy shopper, there is the legendary Grand Bazaar, and the best piece of advice you can be given is to take a large empty bag, for all of the things you are sure to find – or better still, buy a new one! But the fantastic hosts kept one last experience for the final morning in Istanbul – a visit to the 300 year old Turkish Baths, where a very large gentleman proceeded to pound and scrub our bodies, leaving a group of stress-free and relaxed visitors.
Turkey offers a great deal in conference terms, and would give great value for money as an incentive destination. I can’t wait to return and learn more about this fascinating city.
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I come from a Land Down Under..
By Martin Ellis
So sang Men At Work (before my time), and indeed that song was played often during the Dreamtime 2011 Familiarisation Trip. I was lucky enough to be a guest on this prestigious occasion, and can report back that Australia is certainly one of the world’s “must see” destinations. Forget all of the comments that “you can’t go for a week”, “it’s too far” etc etc… I heard it all so often that I felt like Columbus going off to explore the new world! Actually, thanks to Qantas and a 2 hour stopover in Singapore, I can assure you that it’s not just possible, it’s actually a very pleasant experience. The seating and facilities on the flights were of such a high standard that I arrived feeling refreshed and raring to go!
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