Greece is known for its turquoise waters, beautiful white washed walls and stunning natural scenery – perfect for any honeymoon, wedding venue, girls trip, family holiday or solo trip and its versatility means its perfect whether you want relax on a beach all week or fill up your itinerary, hopping from island to island!
It’s definitely been a go-to for me whenever I miss the sun or want to plan a romantic getaway without too much fuss.
If you’re planning to visit, the best time to go is outside the mid-July to end of August peak season – where temperatures and prices soar and crowds descent the islands! (Especially if you’re hoping to visit one of the more popular islands like Santorini or Mykonos).
If these photos have piqued your interest and you want to learn more about what to expect in Greece, check out some of my other guides:
It’s Springtime and the streets of London have transformed into a sea of Wisteria Hysteria – a fragrance which undeniably signals the beginning of warmer weather and better times! I’ve been completely transfixed by all the spots that have opened up just this week so read on for all my top picks (but hurry they don’t last long)
Notting Hill
Notting Hill will always be my go-to when it comes to London Wisteria. Not only will it put you under the floral spell, it’s also a very beautiful area to walk around, so why not couple this with a walk around the area and a visit to one of the newly opened restaurants. Thankfully all these locations are right by each other so just hop on the tube and get off at Notting Hill Gate and you’ll be good to go!
3 Bedford Gardens
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Bedford Gardens is one of the most iconic London Wisteria locations with its cascading purple blooms and bubblegum pink door. Situated just a 10 minute walk from Lansdowne Crescent, it’s a great place to start your Wisteria Walk. Just be mindful of the locals – they can get a bit riled up if you spend too long taking photographs!
23 Lansdowne Crescent
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Cascades of fluffy purple blooms meet you as you walk down Lansdowne Crescent – a warm welcome after a long year of pandemic chaos. Watch your worries melt away as you walk down this serene street of lavish houses and Wisteria Wonders.
154 Campden Hill Road.
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Another must see when Wisteria Watching is Campden Hill Road. Even outside of London’s Wisteria Season, this is a lovely location for a walk with its pastel coloured houses which just scream Notting Hill. With the added lilac blooms, you really couldn’t ask for more. Pair this with a trip to Holland Park and the gorgeous Japanese Kyoto gardens which are spectacular this time of year!
Portobello Road
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If you haven’t been to Portobello Road yet, then you’re missing out! Portobello Road is home to one of the world’s largest antique markets and is a bit of an art & culture hub! This, with it’s iconic pastel coloured houses, amazing music and food and beautiful blooms makes it an ideal location for a walk or whole day out. Just make sure you leave yourself enough time to visit the Market!
Holland Park:
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’d seen this gorgeous location a few months ago and had been hunting for directions for many weeks until I finally worked it out. Situated in Ilchester Place, it’s one of the prettiest Wisteria houses in my opinion. Despite being in the centre of London it feels very rural and cottage-like and fills the whole street with fairytale charm.
Kensington & Chelsea London Wisteria
Similar to Notting Hill, Kensington also pulls out all of the stops when it comes to London’s Wisteria Hysteria. There’s plenty of spots to visit in Kensington (more than I’ve listed) so feel free to wander freely among the streets – you’re sure to find all sorts of hidden finds. If you’d rather have a bit more structure, here are my suggestions:
Stafford Terrace
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Once a secret among the Londoners, Stafford Terrace was a hidden gem located in High Street Kensington. But no more! It’s become one of the most popular spots among bloggers and photographers and for good reason. Every year between April and May, the house erupts into a flurry of lilac as Wisteria Hysteria sets in and around London.
Abingdon Road
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After finishing at Stafford Terrace, take the road down Phillimore Gardens, stopping at the Wisteria houses along the way and head over the road down Abingdon Road. Here you’ll come across this rather special twin set of houses draped in lavish wisteria as pictured above. If you’re hungry why not stop off at “Megan’s on the High Street”. They serve the best lunches, all under a canopy of roses! (That’s right, their ceiling is completely made up of white roses!).
Canning Place
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Another iconic Wisteria view, Canning Place ranks highly on my list of Wisteria hot spots. In my experience it tends to bloom a little later than some of the others (mid to late May). But when it fully blooms it really takes the hearts of the Londoners.
Kynance Mews
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Oh Kynance Mews, how you stole my heart this year. Not only were your iconic red ivy leaves a must see this Autumn, but your picturesque Wisteria blooms (which spanned several meters wide!) were second to none. When visiting this location I was struck by how much I felt I’d been transported to a little village in France – with the cobbled streets, balconies and vibrant plants. But no, you’ll find this place in the heart of London! Just pop on the tube and get off at Gloucester Road or South Kensington tube station.
Victoria Road
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Just up the stairs from Kynance Mews is another stunning Wisteria location – Victoria Road. Carry on down that road until no. 45 and you’ll see this vision of draping purple covering the stairway and iconic black door. If you’re feeling peckish why not head down Victoria Grove afterwards, taking the main road until you reach Fait Maison! It’s a beautiful cafe with the most gorgeous food, nestled in a wall of flowers and outside decorations. If you want to find out more head over to my list of the best floral cafes in London.
Sumner Place
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Situated on one of the elegant streets of South Kensington, you’ll find this charming, Wisteria-adorned house. Slightly less well-known than the others, you’re likely to have the place to yourself and be able to take in the view (and scent) free from passers by. To reach this spot, hop on the tube and get off at South Kensington.
Elm Place
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Just a couple of blocks down from Sumner Place you’ll find Elm Place, where the twisting purple vines climb up the pastel-coloured houses in perfect wisteria fashion. This location feels rather more rustic than some of the others and again enjoys the quiet luxury of few passer-byes.
If you’re not coming from Sumner Place, take the tube and get off at South Kensington or Gloucester Road.
If you’re still raring for more, why not head up Old Church street and turn in at Clareville Grove Mews for more Wisteria delights!
Gordon Place
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Just down the road from Bedford Gardens you’ll find Gordon Place. A quiet neighbourhood clothed in purple wisteria. It’s not as ostentatious as some of the other Wisteria displays but just as beautiful in its delicate simplicity. If it’s your first time in the area why not pair this with a visit to Kensington Gardens (home of the Princess Diana Memorial Garden, Kensington Palace and the Serpentine) and Holland Park (which contains the very popular Japanese Kyoto Gardens)
Cheyne Walk London Wisteria
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I stumbled across this spot when walking back from Battersea Park and instantly fell in love with the charm of the place. Over the bridge and beside the water you’ll find this gorgeous row of pristine white houses adorned with delicate wisteria which frames the facades so beautifully. To get here, take the 170, 19 or 49 bus.
St. John’s Wood London Wisteria
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Definitely one of the most photographed Wisteria streets, St johns wood isn’t going to provide you with a quiet reflective walk but it’s certainly going to provide a feast for your eyes. Be patient if there are other people visiting to take photographs and take the time to marvel in nature’s creations
Southwark London Wisteria
Peckham Rye Park
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Arguably one of the most popular locations for Wisteria, Peckham Rye Park is not one to be missed. It’s a beautiful area with the most unique wisteria archway that just begs to be photographed. This location tends to bloom last of all of them so leave this for last if you’re pushed for time!
Southwark Park:
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The Belle of wisteria locations, this one is a real hidden gem which very few people know about! Hidden within the centre of Southwark is Southwark Park and if you carry on walking towards the lake you’ll see a sign for Ada Saltar Gardens. Follow the signs and you’ll reach this gorgeous wisteria archway. Enjoy it all by yourself for it really is one of London’s better known secrets!
Marylebone London Wisteria
Dorset Street
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Head to Marylebone and you’ll find this gem just off Baker Street. There’s something about the pairing of the fluffy Wisterias and classic black door which is just so aesthetically pleasing. Not to mention the beautiful aroma which accompanies it. In the area? Why not stop off at Regent’s Park! The cherry blossoms might have gone now but there’s still lots to enjoy there and it’s got to be one of the best spaces for picnics.
Ladbroke Grove Wisteria
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A row of pastels and Wisteria, this road is a painter’s dream with soft coloured houses and delicate blossoms. Much like my previous recommendations, this street is residential and never all that busy so if you’re still keen on avoiding crowds but don’t want to miss out, this is a good choice for you
Camden Town London Wisteria
30 Delancey Street
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Situated on the busy road of Camden Town, this isn’t necessarily the location you’d expect to see wisteria but it’s actually one of the best! Not only can London’s wisteria be seen draping off the house, but the whole house is covered head to toe in the stuff! There’s honestly more wisteria than brick! To get here take the tube and get off at Camden town. If you’re feeling peckish why not visit the beautiful brand new floral bar Duo. For more details click here
Got your own London Wisteria recommendations? Write them down in the comments below!
One of the true delights of Spring has to be when London’s blossoms begin to bloom. This city transforms into a floral paradise from the pink Magnolia and Cherry Blossom that were the feature earlier this month to the purple cascades of Wisteria that are in full bloom right now. Of course, it’s not always easy to know where to find the spots so I’ve compiled a collection of my personal favourites, with directions on how to get there and what you can pair it with for a whole day out.
Whether you’re looking to go on a floral walk or use it as a backdrop for a summery picnic in the park, there are plenty of ways you can enjoy London’s Blossoms!
Carry on reading to find out more…
London’s Blossoms: Wisteria
1. Notting Hill
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Notting Hill is one of the best places to see Wisteria and an ideal place for a Springtime walk. By mid May you’ll find lots of the houses completely draped in purple cascading wisteria – from Bedford Gardens and Stanley Gardens to Lansdowne Crescent and Campden Hill Road. Thankfully all these locations are right by each other so just hop on the tube and get off at Notting Hill Gate and you’ll be good to go!
Kynance Mews is another beautiful place to visit – no matter which season! In the Autumn you can see the iconic red ivy leaves draped over the archway and in the Spring you get to see these beautiful, picturesque Wisteria blooms against the cobbled streets. To get here, pop on the tube and get off at Gloucester Road or South Kensington tube station. (Just be mindful that these are people’s houses!)
3. Kensington
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Kynance Mews is definitely one of the prettiest places to see Wisteria in Kensington but there’s plenty more to explore if you’re in the area. Abingdon Road is often a prime location for Wisteria as well as Gordon Place and Canning Place!
4. South Kensington
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There are many gorgeous places to see Wisteria in South Kensington but my two favourites have to be Sumner Place and Elm Place. The cascades of Wisteria are so charming set around the brick houses and white facades. To get here simply take the tube and get off at South Kensington Station. Then follow the main road down until you get to Sumner Place Road and Cranley Gardens.
5. Cheyne Walk
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This season, Cheyne Walk has been one of my all time favourite locations for Wisteria. Situated by the Albert Bridge and Battersea Park it’s a perfect day out paired with a picnic at the Park. Take the time to walk around Battersea Park before heading towards the river, crossing the iconic Albert Bridge before heading to Cheyne Walk (which is the street of houses parallel to the river (hidden behind the hedge).
6. St. John’s Wood
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St. John’s Wood is one of the lesser known Wisteria locations but certainly not one to miss. Situated next to another of London’s prettiest areas it’s the perfect pairing with a trip to Camden Town, Primrose Hill (which has one of the best views of London’s Skyline’s) and, of course, Regent’s Park’s beautiful Cherry Blossoms.
Peckham Rye Park has been on my list of Parks to visit for so long! During Wisteria Season it completely transforms with the appearance of this purple Wisteria Archway. It really is a sight to behold! It’s a bit further out than the other locations – being closer to Southwark than anywhere else but why not make a day of it. Whilst there you could always take a trip to Borough Market (for a list of the best restaurants click here), visit Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, The Shard or The Tate Modern!
For my full list of Wisteria locations click here! (There are plenty more to choose from!)
London’s Cherry Blossoms:
1. Greenwich Park
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Greenwich Park has to be the queen of all parks when it comes to London’s blossoms. The pathway turns into an impressive Cherry Blossom archway – one which transports you to Japan in minutes. Of course, this has led to it being a very busy location so don’t expect to see it empty like this unless you arrive before 6am! To find this particular shot, follow Blackheath Avenue until you arrive at a perpendicular footpath on the right (that leads towards Rangers House and the Rose Garden). Take this path and carry on and you’ll find a row of cherry blossoms learning into each other, creating a sort of cherry blossom tunnel!
2. Regent’s Park
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Regent’s Park is another incredibly popular spot in the Spring – not just for the gorgeous Cherry Blossoms but generally to escape the busy city atmosphere in favour of a (still rather busy) spot of green! Of all the parks in London this one has to be one of the most idyllic and beautiful. From the beautiful Cherry Blossom entwined bridge to the fountained Queen Mary Gardens, you feel like you’re in a set from Bridgerton! The best time to visit Regent’s Park is in late April when London’s blossoms really take hold.
3. Ravenscourt Park
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A bit further out than some of the other locations, Ravenscourt Park is situated by Hammersmith, in West London and is a real must when it comes to Cherry Blossom hunting! The trees create the fluffiest Cherry Blossoms and when the wind picks up it literally rains petals! Aside from the Cherry Blossoms, Ravenscourt Park boasts a gorgeous open space with a lake, walled garden, bowling green and even a Tennis Court. So bring a picnic blanket and packed lunch and enjoy a day of outdoor loving!
4. Mount Street Gardens
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If you’re looking for a quiet spot away from the ravenous Cherry Blossom seekers, I’ve got the spot for you. This one really is a hidden secret, tucked away in the hidden cove in Mayfair (just to the right of Hyde Park) and boasts one of London’s biggest Cherry Blossom trees! It’s always very quiet with only 2-3 people there and the perfect spot to relax and read a book. If you’re travelling by tube get off at Green Park or Bond Street and head towards Farm Street Church (just south of Grosvenor Square).
5. St. Paul’s
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St. Paul’s Cathedral is the icon among icons when it comes to London’s tourist spots and is well worth a visit anytime of year. During the Spring however it’s extra special with all the beautiful blossoms that take hold. These ones tend to blossom a little earlier in the month than the other Cherry Blossom locations so make sure to visit this one first!
6. Battersea Park
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I must admit, before the Cherry Blossom season came out, I’d never actually visited Battersea Park which is a real shame! It’s a gorgeous Victorian Park situated beside the Albert Bridge, opposite Chelsea and is one of the most interesting parks in London. Not only does it have a spectacular array of Cherry Blossom trees, but it also houses 9 unique gardens – from Rose Gardens, Cammellias and Chrysanthemums to their Sub Tropical, Winter or Old English Gardens. Did I mention it also had a zoo? A day out to remember, why not pack a picnic, stroll through the cherry blossoms and finish the day with a sunset walk over the river? I mean what more could you want!
6. Notting Hill (Stanley Crescent)
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Last, but by no means least, we have Notting Hill and its famous Stanley Crescent spot. Once upon a time this location was a quiet and serene place to hang out with friends. No more! This spot spread like wildfire among the London bloggers and now generates the same crowds as many of the bigger parks and I can’t say I’m surprised. The pairing of the delicate pink Cherry Blossoms with the classic Notting Hill white facades makes for a gorgeous photo spot.
London’s Magnolia:
1. The Bolton’s
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You might remember me mentioning The Boltons back at Christmas time when they housed the rather impressive 6ft red bow. Well, we’re back again – but this time to see the floral bananza they have in store for us. This small, serene little close has some of the prettiest magnolia trees in the area which stand out in striking beauty against the iconic white facades of the big London townhouses. It’s a fantastic way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and to explore London in true Londoner fashion (just without the massive price tag!).
2. Notting Hill
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As well as being a stunning Wisteria and Cherry Blossom location, Notting Hill blooms boasts an impressive set of magnolia trees. Portobello Road is a hot favourite when it comes to Magnolia, as well as Holland Park, Bayswater and Lancaster Road. Against the pastel coloured houses, the blooms look spectacular!
3. Gloucester Road
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Like Notting Hill, South Kensington is a classic when it comes to London’s blossoms hunting and there are plenty of magnolia trees to be found wherever you go in Kensington. However, my personal favourite has to be this spot on Gloucester Road. It’s such a quaint location with all of the beautiful pastel doors and rather less intimidating than some of the huge white gated houses you see in Kensington.
4. Lancaster Gate/Sussex Gardens
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I stumbled across this location rather accidentally when walking to Notting Hill and couldn’t resist taking a photo. Although it’s not the kind of place you could stop and have a picnic, I’ve included it in my list because it ended up being one of the most impressive magnolias I’ve seen all season. It’s a perfect first stop on a magnolia walk starting from Paddington as you head into Kensington Gardens into Kensington or Notting Hill.
5. Gunnersbury Park:
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Saving the best ’til last, Gunnersbury Park in Hounslow makes it to the top of my list. It’s a gorgeous place to see the flowing magnolias within the serene corners of London’s green oasis. Not only can you admire the view from your picnic spot, but you can turn a “day in the park” to a glamorous outing within minutes by visiting their ornate gardens, spectacular fountain and elegant Park House.
Read on to find out what I thought of our stay at Riad L’Atelier and how it ranked as one of the best hotels in Marrakech…
What’s a Riad and should you stay in one in Marrakech?
In our 4 days visiting Marrakech, we were keen to experience the authentic side of Marrakech, choosing to stay in one of the traditional Moroccan Riads which in my opinion are some of the best hotels in Marrakech. If you haven’t stayed in a riad before, these are basically traditional Moroccan houses, normally two or more stories high and centred around an open-air courtyard and swimming pool. Quite often they’re planted with fruit trees like orange trees or lemon trees and very botanical in nature. The main difference between a Riad and a Hotel, however, is the size – a Riad is really like a small boutique hotel with 10 rooms or less and each room is normally quite uniquely furnished.
For that reason, the Riad L’Atelier was an obvious choice for us. So keep on reading and find out what I thought about our stay here at Riad L’Atelier and how it ranked as one of the best hotels in Marrakech.
Hotel Location:
Riad L’Atelier is situated in Kaat Benahid, the oldest district in Marrakech’s Medina. A very central location, it made for a good base to visit all the sites in Marrakech without having to walk further than 15 mins. In fact, it’s only a few steps away from Madrasa Ben Youseff and the souks.
Cars can’t actually go through the medina so if you’re taking a taxi (which I’d recommend), you’ll have to ask them to drop you off at Place du Moukef and then walk the rest of the way (approx. 2 mins). The best thing to do is arrange the transfer through the hotel and that way they’ll meet you at Place du Moukef and walk you to the hotel (plus you know you’ll get a good rate).
If safety is your concern, then don’t hesitate to contact the hotel and ask them about their security measures. Or check for official ratings.
Rooms & Suites:
There are just 5 rooms in this hotel (which is quite classic for a riad) and the intimate space means you get a really lovely personal experience when you stay there – there are always hotel staff on hand to make you feel welcome right from the moment you arrive to the moment you hand back your keys.
In terms of the make up of the rooms, the bedrooms are quite basic in nature – with the bare necessities you’d need to have a comfortable stay but with nice touches such as organic amenities and a rain shower. In other words, stay here for the traditional feel of it and to enjoy the courtyard, pool and food because you won’t be staying in the room that much!
Services & Facilities
How does it rank compared to the best Hotels in Marrakech?
If there’s one thing we took away from our stay at Riad L’Atelier, it had to be the service they provided. It seems clear to me that they take hospitality very seriously here in Morocco and this hotel certainly was no exception. Right from the moment we arrived (and were walked to the hotel), hotel staff were on hand to make sure we had the warmest welcome. When we arrived we were given complimentary peppermint tea and biscuits and one of the hotel staff sat with us to give us a map of the area, give us pointers of where to go and tips for how to make our trip as enjoyable as possible.
When it came to breakfast they were very perceptive – re-filling the dishes we liked most and helping me set up my breakfast photo shoot by the pool – giving me beautiful dishes and table cloths to make it as beautiful as possible – just a small thing but a really lovely touch!
In terms of facilities and services, there’s a currency exchange, swimming pool, room service and 24-hour front desk. There’s also a really delightful roof terrace with sun loungers and beautiful view of the city. If you want to make the most of your time here, make sure to have a tray of peppermint tea brought up to the rooftop terrace in the evening so you can see the sun set over the city!
Hotel Dining:
Although Riad L’Atelier doesn’t have a dining room per se, like many of the riads in Marrakech, it prides itself on its traditional home cooking. Throughout your stay you can request lunches or dinners, with a fairly wide array of meals available. Just make sure you book each meal one day in advance. (Don’t worry, if you’re planning to have a meal on your first night, you can book this in advance by contacting them via email).
Final Thoughts – where does it rank as one of the best hotels in Marrakech?
Although not one of the fanciest hotels in terms of amenities and facilities, this traditional Riad has to be one of the best hotels in Marrakech I’ve ever stayed in due to it’s impeccable hospitality, great location and wonderfully unique open-air courtyard complete with orange trees and singing birds! So if you’re looking for a traditional and authentic experience, I’d definitely recommend this! But if it’s a luxurious stay filled with massages, grand pools, fitness suites etc. you’re after, this might not be the one for you!
My one take away message: make sure you book a hotel transfer through the hotel! – even with a sat nav, the Medina is a complete maze and it’s really difficult to find where these hotels are situated! Just take the stress out of it – it’s so close to the airport that the fare is incredibly low.
If you have any questions about the hotel, feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email or message via social media – I’m always happy to help you out with any queries you might have!
Have you visited Marrakech before? What in your opinion are the best hotels in Marrakech? Let me know in the comments!
Hotel Information
Name: Riad L’Atelier
Address: 33 Rue Tachenbacht, Kaat Benahid. Marrakech 40000
Set in the Panormos Bay region, the Panormos Bay Suites are a short drive away from the main town, 2.5 miles from the nearest airport and a 10 minute walk from the nearest beach. Points of interest include Panormos Beach, Agios Sostis Beach and Ftelia Beach – so the perfect location if you’re looking to top up that tan and relax under the Mediterranean sun!
Rooms & Suites
Each room comes with air conditioning, a seating area, TV, kitchenette, dining area, safety deposit box, coffee machine, bar and a private bathroom with bidet, bathrobes and slippers. Every room comes complete with a patio and beautiful views of the lake and some suites – like the one we stayed in – are 2 floors high, featuring a balcony and private swimming pool.
Services & Facilities
As you’d expect from a Luxury Suite, the Room Service and Concierge service is impeccable – with 24/7 Reception Staff available to help with any queries you might have as well as a paid airport shuttle service (which is very helpful given that public transport and taxis are rather hard to come by in Mykonos). In terms of facilities, there are also communal areas which you can access such as their Restaurant, Fitness Centre, Bar and Garden as well as Barbecue Facilities.
Dining
Included in the room price, the Panormos Bay Suites offer a choice of continental or buffet breakfast with the rather luxurious option to have it brought to your suite in the morning when you wake up! For the rest of the meals, you have the option to go out and explore the area or order via their room service menu – which is rather extensive.
Panormos Bay Suites – Final Thoughts
A luxurious suite with beautifully modern interior, large swimming pools and fantastic facilities, the resort certainly lived up to my expectations and did everything it said on the label!
The only thing that slightly caught me off guard was the location – we hadn’t realised how little public transport was available in the region and the fact it can take several hours to secure a taxi (since there are only about 20 on the whole island) so if you’re planning to come here I’d suggest you have transport organised beforehand and rent a car or bike so you can get around the area without too much trouble!
If you have any questions about the hotel, feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email or message via social media – I’m always happy to help you out with any queries you might have!
In the City’s centre, the streets are sparkling with festive joy as the London Christmas Installations come out once again! So, why not grab yourself a warm cozy coffee and head on a Christmassy walk down London’s most festive streets.
Carry on reading for this year’s must see London Christmas Installations..
1) Ivy Chelsea Garden
The festive displays at Ivy Chelsea Garden are hard to beat and this year is certainly no exception. Complete with Santa’s office, sleigh and North Pole postbox, this installation ticks all the boxes.
Although the restaurant had to close its doors in line with Government guidelines, families are welcome to visit the installation or make one of their seasonal cocktails from home!
2) Cartier
Probably the most famous of all them all, Cartier’s red bow is synonymous with Christmas joy and Yuletide cheer! Situated on New Bond Street, it’s perfect coupled with a trip to Burlington Arcade and Fortnum & Mason’s. If you’re visiting in the evening make sure to arrive on the hour as there’s a light and music show every day at 5pm, 6pm and 7pm.
3) Burlington Arcade
Just around the corner from Cartier, Burlington’s Arcade has come alive with Christmas ornaments, a festive swing (courtesy of Moet & Chandon), several Christmas trees and suspended hanging baubles.
4) Annabel’s
Annabel’s – arguably one of the most exclusive members’ clubs in the world – is always a treat at Christmas time. Last year they opted for a 44ft x 43ft Christmas tree installation (!) but this year is dedicated to the arts – an industry that has really felt the strain of the pandemic.
Based on the Nutcracker, the Club’s exterior features theatre drapes, 3 enormous Nutcracker figurines, an arch of baubles adorning the front door and a life-size projection of 2 dancers from the Sophie Adams Ballet Company.
To visit this display, walk to Berkely Square Gardens in Mayfair (5 mins walk from Green Park underground and 10 mins from Burlington Arcade and Cartier).
5) Houses in Chelsea
It’s not just the restaurants and shops that have gone all out this Christmas, the houses in Chelsea and Kensington have too! This house in Carlyle Square, Chelsea has to be one of my favourites – complete with bauble archway, life-size nutcrackers, a bauble wreath and festive floral arrangements.
Of course, when walking past people’s houses remember that this is someone’s home so please be respectful when visiting and only walk on public roads!
6) Houses in Kensington
Another lovely Christmas walk is through Kensington – particularly Bolton Street -which is lit up with Christmas decorations, suspended red baubles, 6 ft Christmas trees on the roofs (!) and this spectacular red bow house.
Again, please be respectful when walking past as these are people’s homes.
7) Neill Strain Floral Couture
Christmas doesn’t always have to be red and gold and this certainly rings true as far as Neill Strain is concerned! This Floral paradise is always home to a beautiful archway and floral display and this year’s Christmas installation is certainly a stunner!
Couple this with a visit to Peggy Porschen’s Belgravia parlour, Jo Loves and the Duke of York Square for an authentic Christmas experience (which is tier 4 friendly!)
8) Peggy Porschen
If you’ve subscribed to me for a while, you’ll know how much I love Peggy Porschen’s beautiful pink decorations and this one’s a real treat!
Peggy Porschen is situated in Belgravia and Chelsea so can be coupled with a walk past some of the other Christmas installations (if visiting the Ivy Chelsea Garden, just walk 2 mins further to get to the Chelsea parlour).
9) Fortnum & Mason
Fortnum & Mason’s has been transformed into a giant advent calendar this year – celebrating the countdown to Christmas in style!
Their clock even plays festive tunes on the hour to keep you feeling merry.
10) The Angels at Regent Street
Something of a festive staple and one of my favourite London Christmas Installations, Regent Street is once again lit up with soaring angels that glisten and sparkle – iconic against the red London buses.
11) Ivy Soho Brasserie
The Ivy restaurants really do feature some of the best seasonal displays and their Soho branch is certainly no exception. Created by the talented florists at Early Hours, these colourful bauble Christmas trees are original and glowing with festive cheer.
Couple this with a visit to China Town!
12) Ivy Market Grill (Covent Garden)
Slightly closer to home, the Ivy Market Grill has gone all out with its Nutcracker inspired bauble archway, right by the entrance to Covent Garden market. Start here before heading into Covent Garden – noticing the giant Christmas tree and suspended baubles which are truly spectacular.
13) Jo Loves
Jo Loves, situated in Belgravia, is a British perfume brand founded by perfumer Jo Malone. Each year it boasts a beautiful Christmas display and this year is no different. They’ve transformed their store into an iconic red and white winter wonderland with beautiful origami paper Christmas tree.
Couple this up with a trip to Peggy Porschen and Duke of York Square to really make the most of your Christmas walk!
14) Oxford Street
Oxford Street, like Regent Street, is famous for its Christmas lights. This year they chose to fill the skies with banners which, in unison, showcase a poem dedicated to the city of London.
The lights run the entire length of Oxford Street from Marble Arch to Tottenham Court Road.
If you’re particularly interested in the Christmas light displays why not do a light display walk! This is the route I’d recommend: Start at Oxford Circus/Regent Street. walk towards Piccadilly. Then Carnaby Street. Next, head to Old Bond Street and Burlington Arcade. Walk towards Waterloo Place and finally Covent Garden.
Enjoyed this article? Let me know below which London Christmas Installations are your favourite! Or why not check my latest article: The 10 Best Floral Cafes in London
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