No Western European city does luxury like London, the ultimate playground for the world’s millionaires and billionaires. Travelers can’t enough of the city’s world-class shopping, cultural attractions and internationally-renowned restaurants and bars.
So where to start? Though the options are endless, here is a suggested itinerary to make the most of a luxurious day in this glamorous British capital.
STAY: Shangri-La Hotel
To make the most of your day, check-in for a night (or more) prior at Shangri-La at the Shard, the city’s first “elevated hotel” based in Western Europe’s tallest building. For London city views, Shangri-La is unmatched, with each room featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that allows guests to witness the enormous urban landscape from on high. The guests-only Sky Pool, located in the 52nd floor, has to be the most spectacularly-placed swimming hole in England; take a dip in the infinity pool with postcard views of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the winding Thames River.
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LUNCH: Barrafina Dean Street
Beat the everlasting dinner queues for this Michelin-starred mecca and head for lunch instead. Originally based on Frith Street, slick counter-only tapas bar from sibling restaurateurs Sam and Eddie Hart recently moved to Dean Street just a block away, but the Barcelona-style cooking and buzzing atmosphere remains the same. Standout tapas include the milk-fed lamb, ham croquetas, tuna tartare and the almighty carabinero, a large fiery-red prawn listed in their specials board — don’t forget to top it all off with a glass of sherry.
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INDULGE: Sense Spa, Rosewood
Feel away from it all with a treatment at Sense Spa, the sexy, zen inspired retreat at the five-star Rosewood Hotel. Sumptuous seasonal treatments are offered, such as the current ayurvedic-inspired Ode de Repos treatment which serves the upper body with Maison Caulieres products. Do allow ample time to unwind, as the relaxation lounge -- with its gold-brushed ceiling dome and eye-catching circular design -- is among the most stunning spa rooms in London.
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EXPLORE: Mayfair
No luxury traveler should miss a visit to Mayfair, London's most glamorous neighborhood. It's a shopper's paradise: pick a major fashion house and you'll find it here, especially on Mount Street and the world-famous Bond Street. Go to the Royal Academy of Arts for splendid art exhibitions, peruse the premium goods at Fortnum & Mason (a favorite of the Queen) or simply explore the area on foot and marvel at the gorgeous, classic architecture throughout the area.
DINNER: Jamavar
Once you're done exploring the neighborhood, tuck into dinner at the Mount Street-based Jamavar, London's latest hotspot for fine Indian dining. It opened in November 2016 and is already giving its Indian Michelin-starred neighbor Gymkhana a run for its money, with delicious curries, great service and a plush atmosphere. One taste of the instant-classic stone bass tikka dish with avocado chutney and you'll realize why Jamavar is the one to watch for this year's upcoming Michelin Guide.
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DRINKS: Bar Swift
Based in the heart of happening Soho, Swift is one of London's recent bar openings and already poised as a "best bars" contender. The ground level is a casual yet smart standing bar primed for aperitivos, while the plush, sexy downstairs lounge takes the sophistication up a notch with art deco design, a formidable whisky list and a jazz pianist on weekends. Though it certainly feels luxurious -- bar bites feature rock oysters and steak tartare and the craft cocktail menu lists ingredients you'll likely need to Google -- it is one of the most well-priced bars of its calibre in Central London (for now).
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AFTER HOURS: Duck & Waffle's bar
Reluctant to call it a night? Proceed to the London's swankiest 24/7 bar at Duck & Waffle, and enjoy a show-stopping view of the twinkling skyline 40 floors above the city. You can order a regular drink, or you can try one of mixologist Richard Woods' strangely original cocktails off of their seasonal menus: think Foie Gras Manhattan and Dark Chocolate & Truffle Negroni, or a Green Gin and Tonic made with tomato vine off of the current "Urban Decay" menu. A toast here is an excellent way to conclude a long, lavish day in one of the world's greatest cities.
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