The loveable, lovely and beloved Rome, Italy !

luxurygroup — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 05:28:26 +0000

What can we possibly say that hasn’t already been said about the eternal city ? The city that everyone loves and wants to visit. For those who haven’t yet gone and even for those who have here are our suggestions.
The entire city is a living museum with amazing artwork, stunning architecture and unbelievable ancient sites but at the same time a lively 21st century city buzzing with life.

After you’ve visited the big famous historical sites such as, Vatican city, St. Peter’s Basilica, The Pantheon, The Colosseum, The Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain, and more you will be ready for some serious quality Roman food. There are countless cafe’s and Trattorias all over the city but for a truly world class meal, visit the 3 Michelin starred La Pergola Restaurant: www.romecavalieri.com/lapergola.php located inside the Rome Waldorf Astoria Cavalieri Hilton Hotel. www.romecavalieri.com/
For more casual dining and delicious pastas, seafoods and other Italian favourites visit Piazza del Popolo where you will find less tourists and more locals. Try Ristorante Sabatini – 23, Vicolo Di S. Maria Tel. + 39 06 5818 307.

Best designer shops are on Via dei Condotti & Via Vittorio Veneto but for more unique shops visit Via del Corso and other boutiques scattered around the city. Via Cola di Rienzi starting from Piazza Risorgimento and the Tiber river and Via Nazionale between Piazza della Republica & Piazza Risorgimento also have many interesting and unique shops.
As for your hotel in Rome, which happens to be our expertise, Luxury Group recommends 3 fantastic and absolutely ideally located grand hotels.
Grand Hotel de le Minerve: www.grandhoteldelaminerve.com/

Grand Hotel Flora Marriott: www.hotelfloraroma.com/
Hotel Eden Rome: www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1872&EM=VTY_MD_eden_1872_overview
We hope and know that you will love this city as much as we and just about everyone else who visits it does. Rome is a timeless, elegant city which is extremely inviting, warm and very unique.
Enjoy !

Chic, Exotic, Legendary, Vibrant, Beautiful and Shocking Cannes, France !

luxurygroup — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 07:47:13 +0000

We are truly challenged for an adjective that would accurately describe this magnificent seaside city. Home to the world famous Cannes Film Festival each May there is much, much more to this city than just that.
Exquisite shopping, dining, beach scene and as though the city itself did not have enough to offer, Cannes is also within close proximity of some of the world’s most exciting cities such as Monte Carlo, St. Tropez, Cap Ferrat and Cap d’Antibe to name a few.
First order of business is where to stay. There are 5 or so five star hotels in town but Luxury Group recommends and suggests, Hôtel Majestic Barrière: http://www.lucienbarriere.com/localized/fr/hotel/etablissements/cannes_hotel_majestic_barriere.htm

This hotel has it all, superb accommodations, exquisite restaurants with indoor and outdoor dining, unmatched bar scene and an enviable service and security. Every detail has been anticipated for your comfort and pleasure. Its no surprise that some of the most well healed guests from around the world make this hotel their temporary luxurious pad while in Cannes.
Are you hungry yet ?! there are countless restaurants in town as you would expect from any French city specially one as visible as Cannes, and many of them are very good, but we suggest 4 which cover the category from chic to casual.
For fantastic seafood and other specialties head straight to, Le Caveau 30: http://www.lecaveau30.com/
If you feel like fabulous Italian fare and wood oven baked pizzas plus incredible people watching, there is Le Vesuvio: Address: 68 Boulevard la Croisette Tel. + 33 4 93 94 0828
Also for superior breakfast, lunch and dinner and the city’s best people watching the clear choice is, Le Voilier: www.Levoilier.fr
Finally for arguably the world’s best tasting pizza visit La Pizza Restaurant: http://www.crescere.fr/restaurants-pizzacannes.htm
Their signature half moon pizzas are highly coveted and you are bound to find a line of people waiting to sit down each time you visit.

historical, super artsy and legendary city of Florence, Italy !

luxurygroup — Sun, 10 Apr 2011 22:18:19 +0000

When visiting such a famously historical city, the birthplace of the Italian language, the obvious suggestion would be to visit the world renowned museums such as the Uffizi gallery and Pitti Palace, which of course one should do, but the fact is, the whole city of Florence can be described as one large museum. Every sidewalk, wall, structure left and right oozes history, culture, art and seven centuries of Florentine history. Under the dynasty of the Medici family and its most famous member – Lorenzo the Magnificent – Florence became the “centre of the world” for its figurative arts, science and literature.
Between the 13th and 16th centuries, Florence was in fact the main cultural and artistic centre in Italy and Europe and was visited by the most famous 19th century Italian poets including Alfieri, Leopardi, Foscolo and Manzoni.
The second half of the 19th century saw the growth of the Macchiaioli movement, which paved the way for Italian modern art. Many of the works are now displayed in the Gallery of Modern Art in Palazzo Pitti.

But what we want to tell you about is where to stay, eat and do other fun unique things that you may not be aware of.
As for hotels, Luxury Group really likes the old palazzo residence expertly converted into a high ceiling all suite hotel, super cozy and luxurious, Palazzo Magnani Feroni.

http://www.palazzomagnaniferoni.com/
Merely 2 blocks away from Ponte Vecchio and just about anything that one would like to see in this incredible city.
Relais Santa Croce: http://www.relaisantacroce.com/en/hotel The perfect balance of history, culture and modern comforts in this 18th century residence.
We also suggest Antica Torre Di Via Tornabuoni N. 1
http://www.tornabuoni1.com/site/index.php
Also located in the heart of Florence and run by super competent management and staff. Makes you feel at home. The hotel is housed in a prestigious building in the heart of Florence with impressive history.
A venerable mainstay among the five star hotels of Florence is the Villa Olmi Resort.
http://www.villaolmiresort.com/en
Location, service, luxurious amenities and surroundings in this historic mansion will impress even the most seasoned. Let the expert Italian hospitality and know how take over and just sit back and enjoy.
The Westin Excelsior Florence: http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=43
Super luxury hotel located right on the river and minutes walk from Harry’s bar.

You must be hungry by now and given the mind blowing choices of truly excellent eating establishments in Florence you will have no trouble stumbling into one fabulous restaurant after another, but allow us to recommend a few just the same.
L’Osteria di Giovanni: http://www.osteriadigiovanni.com/
Enoteca Pinchiorri: http://www.enotecapinchiorri.com/
Ristorante IL Latini: http://www.illatini.com/?lang=en for authentic mouth watering Italian cuisine.
While there are countless boutiques and shops dotting every street in the center, we would also like to recommend a master tailor: Piero Cisternino on Via Del Purgatoria 22 R. Tel. + 39 055 280118. He will mesaure you and custom make a suit for you that will fit you like a glove. With clients worldwide, he can use your measurements and send your suit to your home country. When it comes to making men’s custom made suits, Piero knows his stuff.

exciting, beautiful, glorious and dreamy Cape Town, South Africa !

luxurygroup — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 03:57:53 +0000

This beautiful city has so much to offer we truly don’t know where to begin. The Atlantic and the Indian ocean meet here and maybe that’s one of the reasons why seafood is so good here, but then again so are the steaks at numerous fabulous steak restaurants.
Below, are our picks of some of the restaurants & hotels NOT TO BE MISSED !
Hidden in the docks by the shipyard is the gem of a restaurant known to locals and those in the know, Panama Jacks: http://www.panamajacks.net/

Whether or not you like Indian food, paying a visit to Bukhara – the best Indian restaurant in the southern hemisphere is a must:http://www.bukhara.com/

As for hotels we’ve got several options for you.
For a combination of downtown location, grand style and majestic Table Mountain views there is The Mount Nelson Hotel: http://www.mountnelson.co.za/web/ocap/mount_nelson_hotel.jsp
Also in downtown ideally located very close to the Victoria Harbour but a much smaller boutique hotel with personal attention: The Sugar Hotel: http://www.sugarhotel.co.za/
Another downtown option is the Westin Grand Cape Town Arabella: http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1445
This hotel offers ultra modern rooms, some with Table Mountain views as well as a gorgeous all glass sauna on the top floor together with a swimming pool equipped with underwater music. The entire spa is equipped with radiant heating which is specially welcoming and relaxing.
Located just outside of Cape Town in False Bay is the majestic Colona Castle Hotel: http://www.colonacastle.co.za/
Beach, mountain views, sun and sand awaits you in this 5 star luxury hotel.

For breathtaking ocean views and numerous cafes and restaurants visit Camp’s Bay in Cape Town.
Don’t forget to visit Stellenbosch for fabulous wineries featuring South Africa’s best.

some hot tips on places to sleep & eat in PARIS, FRANCE !

luxurygroup — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 08:30:31 +0000

Here’s our recommendations on some of the best places to stay and eat in the luxury category in Paris.
First you need a place to stay which offers the style, luxury, comfort and all the amenities that you’re used to:

Park Hyatt Paris Vendome. http://www.paris.vendome.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/
This hotel is in the Place de la Concorde and Louvre museum area. Super stylish with expertly trained staff.

Hotel Fouquet’s Barriere. http://www.fouquets-barriere.com/
In the Corner of Avenue Champs Elysees & George V. Ultra hip, ideally located and so sophisticated !!

Hilton Arc de Triomphe. http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/PARDTHI-Hilton-Arc-de-Triomphe-Paris-hotel/index.do They leave nothing to be desired at this fabulous hotel. We like this place and we are not easy to please !
Hotel Paris Ritz. http://www.ritzparis.com
In the Place de la Concorde area and Louvre museum. A landmark in Paris. Do we really need to elaborate further on this hote ?!
InterContinental Paris Le Grand. http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/overview/parhb
In the 9th arrondissement. We are amazed at the level of quality in every aspect of this hotel.
Hotel Costes. http://www.hotelcostes.com/
This hotel is the favourite of celebrities and fashion models. Very close to Buddhar bar and fancy boutiques of Avenue St. Honore.

Among the many gourmet fine dining establishments in this city of expert chefs, Luxury Group suggests the following:

Le Relais de l’Entrecote. The steak and fries restaurant with the famous secret green sauce. It will be the most delicious cut of beef you’ve ever had. The restaurant takes no reservations and there is no menu, so get in early and get in que, enjoy and remember who told you about it. Just let them know how you would like your meat cooked.
L’Auberge Dab. http://www.rest-gj.com/aubergedab-1.html Gourmet dining in the true Parisian style !
Al Charq Lebanese Restaurant. http://www.alcharq.com/
Mouth watering Lebanese dishes prepared to perfection by Al Charq. They also have a branch in Cannes in the south of France. We;ve tried nearly all of them, this one is the best !
Brasserie Lipp St. Germain. http://www.ila-chateau.com/lipp/
Deserves every ounce of reputation that it’s got, and more !!!

As for shopping, once you’ve visited the boutiques and department stores on Blvd. Haussman, and Avenue St. Honore and so many other places, we suggest you head to left bank and spend some time at Le Bon Marche Rive Gauche. http://www.lebonmarche.com/#home,a-la-une

insider news on best hotels in London, United Kingdom

luxurygroup — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 04:35:21 +0000

London, England.  With so many luxury hotels, Luxury Group makes it easy for you to pick the finest of them to suit your needs.
The Ritz London www.theritzlondon.com

The Savoy London  www.fairmont.com/savoy   Re-emerged from extensive renovations in October 2010 better than ever.
The Lanesborough London  www.lanesborough.com/   personal butlers and all else to satisfy the most demanding!
The Fours Seasons Canary Wharf - Gracing London’s east end and minutes from London city airport.www.fourseasons.com/canarywharf/
The Mandarin Oriental London at Hyde Park and a steps away from the enticing shops of Knightsbridge www.mandarinoriental.com/london/
The Connaught in London’s Mayfair www.the-connaught.co.uk/ The perfect marriage of style and classic tradition with a Michelin star restaurant !
The Dorchester www.thedorchester.com/ Inherently British ! Park Lane, Mayfair.

For so long the definitive address in London for prestige, luxury and ultimate in service.
The Landmark London www.landmarklondon.co.uk/
One Aldwych www.campbellgrayhotels.com/one-aldwych-london.html?lang=EN#/one-aldwych-london   A modern classic. Contemporary and luxurious with a vibrant bar and an amazing indoor swimming pool.

For a complete array of world’s finest in luxurious accommodations visit www.LuxuryGroup.com

why Buenos Aires, Argentina is the best destination in Latin America

luxurygroup — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 04:52:33 +0000

This lovely unique latin American city has truly captured our hearts. So much to offer and so many things to do. We find it hard to cover it all, but we can at least let you in on some precious tried and true secrets !
Enjoy the wide tree lined boulevards of this inviting city.

There are many luxury five star hotels scattered around the city. Most visitors first head to the famous Recoleta district where the grave of the famed Evita Perone lies inside the cemetery there. This also happens to be one of the finest neighborhoods in the city.
La Biela Cafe with it’s magnificent outdoor/indoor seating is not to be missed. It lies gracefully in the corner of Avenida Quintana in Recoleta. Some of the wait staff have been working there for more than 30 years. All taxi drivers will know where cafe La Biela is. It’s the ulitmate spot for meetings and see and be seen with great breakfast, lunch and dinner as well fabulous coffees. Order a cafe con leche and the local version of the croissant, Medialuna dulce.
www.labiela.com
Hotels in Recoleta area are:
The Alvear Palace www.alvearpalace.com
Four Seasons Buenos Aires: www.fourseasons.com/buenosaires/
Park Hyatt Buenos Aires: http://buenosaires.park.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/rooms/room-description.jsp

Now may we suggest a couple of not to be missed restaurants in Buenos Aires
Broccolino Italian Restaurant: www.broccolino.com/
La Brigada Restaurant: www.labrigada.com One of the very best we´ve experienced in Buenos Aires, or anywhere else on earth for that matter. There are more expensive places, but none better. This well oiled machine of a fine restaurant serves the finest in meats, salads, appetizers, deserts and wines, Argentinean style, in an atmosphere which is cozy, inviting and extremely charming. The extensive and well stocked cellar can be seen under your foot from the glass floor and that is only the beginning of your unforgettable dining experience. Eat at La Brigada in the San Telmo district of Buenos Aires and thank us later.
Sottovoce Ristorante: http://sottovoceristorante.com.ar/ Finest Italian food and atmosphere in Buenos Aires.
LA CABAÑA: www.lacabana.com.ar They claim to have the finest beef in the world, and we tend to agree !! While there take a look at the photos celebrities and heads of states who have dined there before.
La Estancia Restaurant: Avenida Lavalle 941 – Tel. (11) 4326 0330 for charbroiled excellent Argentinean steak.

In the more hip waterfront area – Puerto Madero – you’ll find countless new restaurants but the long standing Las Lilas is a local favourite. www.laslilas.com/restaurant.php

We also very much recommend: Hereford steak Restaurant: Avenida Alicia Moreau de Justo 1140 – Tel. ( 11 ) 4342 8689
While in the Puerto Madero area, do not miss the ultra hip hotel designed by the famous French designer Philippe Starck: Faena Hotel + Universe. www.faenahotelanduniverse.com

Buenos Aires as you may be aware is the birth place of Tango. For an unforgettable Tango dinner & show experience, head to San Telmo district and enjoy an enchanting Tango show at Senior Tango www.senortango.com.ar

The best hotel in San Telmo area is the InterContinental Buenos Aires: www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/overview/bueha
For an afternoon coffee or drinks visit the venerable and 150 + year old Cafe Tortoni: www.cafetortoni.com.ar/

For a complete listing of the world’s finest Hotels, Resorts & Spas visit www.LuxuryGroup.com

visit Aruba for the finest sandy white beaches !

luxurygroup — Sat, 13 Nov 2010 09:00:42 +0000

We make Aruba easy for you. Take your pick from the bustling harbour area where the cruise ships dock or the more isolated resort area where the luxury resorts sit along the amazingly beautiful white sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters.
The harbour area is an inviting development of shops, restaurants, cafes & casinos offering food, relaxation, gambling and more.
The hotel to stay at in this area is the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino. This hotel is located inside a luxury shopping mall featuring name brand designer shops and even a starbucks cafe. : http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/auabr-renaissance-aruba-resort-and-casino/

In the resort area we suggest the Marriott Aruba Resort & Stellaris Casino: http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/auabr-renaissance-aruba-resort-and-casino/

English, Dutch, Spanish & the local Papiamento are the prevailing languages.

visit Beirut, Lebanon first when venturing into Middle East

luxurygroup — Sat, 13 Nov 2010 08:34:41 +0000

Although other cities in the Middle East get the lion’s share of the attention, we think Beirut, Lebanon is still the best kept secret in the region. Magnificent beaches, fabulous shopping, luxury hotels, gourment dining – arguably best food on earth – exciting night life & casinos, sultry belly dance shows and so much more. Take what you hear in the news with a grain of salt and go visit Beirut. There is a reason why it’s the playground of the rich gulf Arabs in the know.
Visit the Verdun & Achrafiye districts to see what this city has to offer.

Hotel: Le Royal Beirut in the Juniesh district. http://www.leroyalbeirut.com/

Restaurants: Do not miss the extremely popular Kabobji restaurants, for an array of delicious Lebanese food, which is known to be addictive by the way. Several locations in town and one in the main street of Beirut, Al Hamra.
In the evening visit Awtar Restaurant for gourmet Lebanese dining coupled with authentic belly dance shows. http://www.awtarrestaurant.com/

prepare to be very surprised by Baku, Azerbaijan

luxurygroup — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 20:30:06 +0000

Baku, may not be high on the list of your places to visit, but perhaps it should be.
For now nearly all who travel there are either oil executives or politicians.
But Baku has so much to offer if you only gave it a chance.
Since the discovery of oil this city has been going straight up.
Great bars and restaurants, elaborate shopping mall developments. fabulous boutiques featuring global brands you’d recognize instantly, but
beyond that, it’s a pleasant city with tree lined streets, an old town section and so much history.

Delicious kabobs at various restaurants, but one we recommend is Anadolou Restaurant. www.anadolu.az/index.php?language=en.

There are several of them in town, but the best one is the one located near fountain square where all the designer boutiques and popular bars are.

With all the new modern entertainment options many locals still take pleasure in an afternoon game of backgammon under a tree on a lazy afternoon.
As for luxury accommodations, that’s real easy. Hyatt Regency or Park Hyatt. http://baku.park.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp Luxury Group highly recommends the Park Hyatt. Last time we were there in September 2010 the President of Russia was just checking out. That should give you an idea of what’s the best hotel in town.

Baku is located on the shores of the Caspian sea and about an hour drive out of town is where the best beaches ( Khazar ) are. Worth a visit as well.
Baku, Azerbaijan, give it a chance, you’ll be glad you did.

The Karvansaray resturant located in the old town Baku will transport you to another time while serving the most delightful kabobs.