a legend within a legend
I have slept in water towers, gunpowder factories, chateaus, and tree houses, but a monastery had been missing on my hotel bucket list so far. There are several former monasteries-cum-hotels, but probably only one can call itself a legend: Bienvenue au Sofitel Legend Santa Clara in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia.
el rosario
With it’s unusual shape the Iglesia El Rosario in San Salvador, El Salvador, looks more like an aircraft hangar than a place of worship. In fact, if it weren’t for the wrought iron gates and the signage, you wouldn’t realise it’s a church at all.
one night in… La Condesa
I love discovering a city by just walking around its downtown neighbourhoods, exploring architecture, local shops, bars and vibe; whether its Havana, Budapest, London or Bangkok. Or Mexico City.
the countryside in the middle of edinburgh
Edinburgh is probably not the first weekend getaway destination that comes to mind as Londoners usually prefer the cosy Cotswolds over the Scottish capital. However, with just over four hours by train, Edinburgh is a great place to escape to for the weekend. Here’s how I spent mine, opting for a combination of city and countryside experience.
one night in… Munich
Munich is one of my favorite cities in the world. The jovial Bavarian atmosphere it oozes, combined with the influences of Northern Italy (in fact, some say it’s Italy’s northernmost city) create an immediate sense of well-being. In the very heart of the Bavarian capital, tucked away in a quiet side street off famous Maximilianstrasse is the 73-room Mandarin Oriental Munich.
an afternoon in the medina
Mastering the Medina in Marrakech is an art form. The secret is panta rhei, let yourself go, swim with the flow instead against the stream, immerse yourself and let the river of people wash you through the maze.