Hotel Reviews

Hotel Review Blogs

Who loves staying at hotels on their travels? I DO! Yes, I absolutely adore finding cool, quirky and luxurious hotels to stay in along my travels.

From a 6 star hotel in Marrakech and glam villa hotels in Bali, to Michelin star hotels in the UK and unique accommodation in Croatia, you’ll find plenty of great hotel reviews here.
Happy relaxing!

REVIEW: Es Saadi Gardens and Resort, Marrakech, Morocco

Time to check out Es Saadi Gardens and Resort in Marrakech.

After an adventurous week stargazing in the Sahara, riding camels and exploring kasbahs (check out the videos), I was ready for a few days of relaxation in Marrakech. I checked into a plush suite at Es Saadi Gardens & Resort in the upmarket Hivernage neighbourhood, and enjoyed a taste of the five star lifestyle.

With huge gates, flags blowing in the wind and elaborate fountains at the entrance, this resort certainly had something to shout about! Every December, stars of the big screen descend on Marrakech for the city’s prestigious film festival, and this is one of the resorts they return to time and time again.

 Over the next 48 hours I wandered the pristine gardens, basked in the Moroccan sunshine by the pool, perused the impressive art collection and was thoroughly pampered in the spa.

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REVIEW: House of Agnes, Canterbury, Kent

House of Agnes Canterbury

A beautiful, ancient building, central location and a Charles Dickens connection make House of Agnes a perfect spot for a short break in Canterbury.

House of Agnes Canterbury
House of Agnes Canterbury

The 15th Century B&B sits on one of the main roads into Canterbury, moments from Canterbury West, the historic Westgate and foodie hotspot The Goods Shed. It was referenced by Charles Dickens in David Copperfield and has stayed true to its original features, with plenty of wonky beams and old–fashioned windows. If you switched the electric lights for candles, it would be like returning to the 1400s.

Yet, some of the building’s history is hidden… During a building project, a Roman skeleton was discovered in the garden (and was consequently reburied!). Even more exciting – an extremely rare Astrolabe Quadrant dating from 1388 was unearthed a few years ago. Described as ‘one of the greatest discoveries of its kind in the world’ it went on to become a feature in the British Museum.

On check in, staff were helpful and full of knowledge – eager to make my stay as comfortable as possible. Downstairs were several communal rooms – something I really like at hotels. They created the feeling of a home-from-home rather than a stiff hotel.

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REVIEW: Grand Okan Hotel, Alanya, Turkey

Checking out the Grand Okan Hotel in Alanya.

During my recent trip to Alanya, I checked into one of the region’s most popular hotels – the Grand Okan.

I’m a firm believer that a luxury is nothing without good service. The most expensive meal can taste quite bland when there is no passion from the people serving it. Some of the best hotels in the world suffer from their stiff, impersonal ways. It makes me wonder: how difficult is it to provide warm customer service (are you listening Barcelo Solymar?)?

Grand Okan Hotel, Alanya
Grand Okan Hotel, Alanya

I checked into the Grand Okan Hotel in Alanya well after midnight. I was tired from travelling and suffering from a bit of a cold. Thankfully, I was welcomed by Amanda – the hotel’s incredibly friendly general manager. From Britain originally, she moved to Turkey over 15 years ago and lives and breathes the culture. Full of stories, charm and infectious warmth, she oversees a happy workforce who go out of their way to meet customers’ needs. It’s no wonder loyal holidaymakers return year after year.

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REVIEW: Lunch at T Beach, Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como, Italy

Grand Hotel Tremezzo Italy

What’s it like to have lunch at Grand Hotel Tremezzo overlooking Lake Como..

As I pulled up outside Lake Como’s Grand Hotel Tremezzo, I felt like a Hollywood movie star. Ferraris screeched to a halt outside, glamorous 40-somethings strutted into the glass lifts, and champagne corks popped at T Beach across the road.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo 01Grand Hotel Tremezzo 02Over 100 years of history, stunning panoramic views and a string of celebrity fans make this one of the most desirable places to stay on the lake. With its 5 star rating, beautiful gardens, luxurious top floor suites, brand new spa and floating swimming pool, I couldn’t resist but stop by and check it out.

Lounge at Grand Hotel Tremezzo
Lounge at Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Entrance to Grand Hotel Tremezzo
Entrance to Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Pic n Mix Stand at Grand Hotel Tremezzo
Pic n Mix Stand at Grand Hotel Tremezzo

I’d been invited for lunch, but before that was treated to a tour of the hotel and its impressive grounds. The art nouveau building has numerous old-fashioned salons and reception rooms with regal colour schemes and plush fabrics, but there’s also a modern touch in places. The newest suites have simple, contemporary marble bathrooms, with TV screens and breath-taking views. Not to mention the jacuzzis on the terraces! Of the 90 rooms and suites, the most prestigious is the Greta, named after Greta Garbo.

Grand Hotel Tremezzo 15 Grand Hotel Tremezzo 11 Grand Hotel Tremezzo 14

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