4. Tea at the Ritz—This was our big splurge but it was totally worth it! Hayley and I got dressed up and headed to the exquisite Palm Court at the Ritz Hotel for high tea last Wednesday night. It was an experience I will remember forever and something I would do every time I visited London. I ordered rose congou tea which was wonderful. The warm scones with clotted cream and jam were marvelous, and the Ritz chocolate cake and other pastries were delightful. And as we were walking in, Bill Clinton was walking out…it was just a really memorable, and quite posh, experience =)

Founded in 1812 as the ‘Mivart’s’, the hotel became ‘Claridge’s’ in 1854 when William and Marianne Claridge acquired the hotel. Ever since then this hotel has offered quiet luxury, lavish hospitality and discreet service to crowned heads, princes and politicians, statesmen and celebrities, such as Madonna. In fact, it was at Claridge’s that Queen Victoria met Empress Eugenie of France who was in residence there in 1860. Claridge’s is celebrated for its opulent Art Deco surroundings. Tea is served in the Foyer and the Reading Room from 2.30-5.30pm. Bookings are preferred and gentlemen are requested to wear a jacket and tie at all times. Tea is served on Limoges porcelain with Robbe and Berking silver (founded 1874) and silver cake stands are so tall that they can be placed on the floor next to the table. Claridge’s offers 14 different blends of tea. Entertainment is provided by a pianist and a violinist. ‘Tea at Claridge’s’ costs 26 GBP. 
Address: Brook Street, Mayfair, London W1A 2JQ, Tel: +44-20-7629 8860, Fax: +44-20-7499 2210, E-Mail: info@claridges.co.uk, Website: www.claridges.co.uk

The winners of the AA B&B Awards 2008-2009 will be revelealed at the Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park in London this evening. Shortlisted for the award of London B&B of the Year are The New Linden in Notting Hill, San Domenico House in Chelsea and The St. George in Langham Place. There is also a category for the funkiest B&B which has been shortlisted to Bangors Organic in Bude, Enchanted Manor on the Isle of Wight, and Moss Grove Organic in Grasmere.  The AA Centenary Awards, attended by the cream of the hospitality world, will be held at Grosvenor House, London, on 2nd September 2008.

• US Airways flies to London Gatwick Airport from ILM through Charlotte without having to go to New York or Washington, D.C. When you arrive, take the Gatwick Express train to Victoria Station, a 30-minute ride.

• Since taxi fares are high in London, plan to use the underground Tube or buses. If you plan to be in London for more than five days, it’s more economical to purchase the credit-card size London Transport Oyster Pass which gives you easy access on and off the Tube and all local buses. And be sure to bring a good pair of walking shoes!

• In Britain, you’re usually considered a senior if you’re over 60, so be sure to check out senior rates which are available for many attractions.

• Pick up a copy of Time Out magazine as soon as you arrive (it comes out on Tuesdays) for the most comprehensive list of weekly goings-on in London.

• Check out London shows ahead of time at the Society of London Theatre (www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk) and upon arrival, grab a copy of The Official London Theatre Guide (free). Although there are many half-price ticket stands, the only official stand is TKTS (www.tkts.co.uk) at Leicester Square.

• Websites to visit before you leave the US: www.visitlondon.com,  www.visitbritain.com,  www.tfl.gov.uk/tube/maps  

Hotels:

Draycott Hotel
26 Cadogan Gardens
www.draycotthotel.com

The Royal Park Hotel
3 Westbourne Terrace

Lancaster Gate
Hyde Park
www.theroyalpark.com

Restaurants:

When in London where do you stay? Well if you are looking for great accommodation in London then the place to be has to be the Landmark Hotel. This hotel is truly amazing. Just check out that building. As for the accommodation itself it is very nicely done. The hotel has great facilities and great staff to boot. You will be very happy you made the decision to stay here.
Landmark Hotel
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Location
Ideally located in the heart of Marylebone, the New Notting Hill, The Landmark Hotel is within convenient reach of London’s West End and the City, also allowing easy access to Heathrow Airport and the north and south-west of England.

Rooms
The property features comfortable guestrooms that reflect classic Victorian British elegance and are equipped with an array of in-room amenities.

Restaurant
The Landmark London is home to several of Marylebone’s best restaurants and bars, and during your stay there is plenty to choose from to enjoy a unique and stylish dining experience.

General
Featuring 10 ornate beautiful rooms, the hotel is an experienced conference and banquet venue. For a quiet haven away from the stress of everyday life, The Landmark Health Club and Spa provides a sophisticated and relaxing retreat. The hotel also offers a swimming pool, fully equipped gymnasium, sauna rooms, steam rooms, whirlpool and spa bath. A wide selection of massages and treatments are also available.

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rangelina’s London Dinner Date

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie enjoyed a dinner date night in London on Saturday (November 10).

The cute couple were spotted leaving their room at the Claridge’s Hotel, heading to Japanese Restaurant Roka - which is known for its “dishes such as tempura, sashimi, maki, kushiage, and robata niku.”

The Mr and Mrs Smith co-stars are currently in London for the UK premiere of Angelina’s new flick, Beowulf, on Sunday night.

According to press, “Angelina will join co-stars Ray Winstone and Sir Anthony Hopkins in London’s Leicester Square.”

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Paris Hilton Talks Wedding Plans

For as short-lived as their relationship has been, Paris Hilton and Benji Madden may be on the fast track to the altar.

The happy twosome was spotted leaving the Dorchester Hotel London earlier today, looking bright-eyed and bushy tailed, on their way to lunch.  Also staying at the Dorchester was Spice Girl Victoria Beckham.

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