Best Pubs in England to Visit

English Pub beer

The National Brewery Centre recently opened in Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire – in the heart of England.

The National Brewery Centre is a world-class interactive museum and visitor center that showcases England’s proud brewing heritage and its strong influence on brewing techniques throughout the world.

The new brewery museum offers hundreds of exhibits and rare artifacts, in addition to a variety of multi-media presentations, the opportunity to see brewing first hand, and of course sample some beers.

To celebrate the opening, the official tourism body for England – VisitEngland, is honoring one of the country’s most important national treasures, the English Pub, by highlighting some of the most noteworthy.

The pub list includes those well known to be haunted, the smallest and oldest pub, as well as Michelin star properties, where the food is as much an attraction as the ale.

Pandora Inn near Truro, Cornwall is one of England’s most remote pubs. Being remote is one of the main allures Pandora Inn. Many patrons will arrive by boat, either by their own, or will take the Aquacab water-taxi ride from nearby Falmouth. Parts of the Inn date back to the 13th Century. The historic building still retains many of its original features including its flagstone floors, low-beamed ceilings and thatched roof. Pandora Inn features an extensive wine list and traditional real ales from St Austell Brewery.

Located in South East England, The Mermaid Inn in Rye, Sussex, is one of the country’s oldest and most enchanting inns. With Norman cellars dating from 1156, the Mermaid, rebuilt in 1420, offers tradition and charm in abundance. For many years the Mermaid has been frequented by artists from the stage and screen including Charlie Chaplin, Pierce Brosnan, Andy Garcia and Johnny Depp, along with Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother and Prince Edward, who have also visited. Additionally, painters from around the world have spent many hours capturing the rare character of the beautiful inn, which offers a wide range of accommodation including rooms with four-poster beds and fascinating secret passages. The lounge bar boasts one of the largest open log fires in England, while the restaurant offers tempting British and French cuisine using only the freshest of local ingredients.

Famed for being England’s smallest pub, The Nutshell in historic Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, in the East of England, proudly holds the title of smallest pub in Britain as confirmed in the Guinness Book of Records. The quaint and cozy 17th century pub, comprising a bar that measures just 15ft by 7ft, has been serving customers jostling for a place at the bar since it first started serving beer in 1867. The Nutshell is now a major tourist attraction for local and international visitors, who visit as much for the interesting historical items, photos and memorabilia on display, as they do for some of the regions finest ales.

Claiming to be England’s Oldest inn, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem in Nottingham is also quite possibly one of the country’s most unique pubs, carved into rock and connected with the labyrinth of sandstone caves at the foot of Nottingham Castle. Several of the rambling rooms are burrowed into the sandstone rock below the castle, yet the Trip to Jerusalem is fully operational, serving a seasonal menu along with fine real ale and on occasion plays host to beer festivals and special events complimented with a range of guest ales from microbreweries throughout Britain. According to legend, Robin Hood is said to have shared his adventures at the pub over a pint of beer.

Situated next to the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon, The Dirty Duck is world famous in Theater circles. A 15th Century building full of history, the very traditional pub is open plan with a separate restaurant, offering food from an extensive menu or Specials Board to be eaten anywhere in the pub. Well-known for its lively atmosphere, as well as its food and beverage offerings, there are often famous faces and ‘after show’ parties held for celebrities. A member of the Kennel Club of Great Britain, The Dirty Duck also welcomes dogs into its long bar.

Often referred to as a model for the perfect English Country Pub, The Star at Harome is a Michelin-Star restaurant and pub in North Yorkshire. Offering exceptional locally sourced food, a relaxed yet efficient approach to service, a place to stay and even somewhere for visitors to shop, The Star Inn offer guests a comforting, homely experience in one of England’s most beautiful rural settings. Despite being recognized as a Michelin-rated gastronomic oasis, The Star Inn retains all its village friendliness, along with its ancient timbers steeped in 600 years of hospitality.

Built to serve herring fishermen in the area, The Olde Ship at Seahouses on the Northumbria coast in the North East of England, features a nautical theme and boasts a rich collection of antique maritime artifacts. An ideal place to stay before or after booking a trip from the harbor to the Farne Islands, home to plentiful birdlife, The Olde Ship is a fully residential property. A highlight in the winter, the main saloon bar, has tremendous character and is lit by stained glass windows and the welcoming glow of an open fire. Perfect for alfresco drinking and dining during the warmer months, overlooking the harbor is a newly developed beer garden with unrivalled views of the surrounding boats and the Farne Islands.

The Philharmonic pub in Liverpool is a dazzling Art Nouveau pub where the Men’s lavatory is so magnificent that women are invited in to view its ornate, marble urinals and toilets, as part of a guided tour. The architectural gem, opened in 1898, was designed by Walter Thomas and stands opposite the Philharmonic Hall. Known by locals as ‘The Phil’, the Grade I listed building features an imposing exterior and highly decorative interior. The Philharmonic has dark wood-paneled walls, musical scenes depicted in copper and Art Deco lights that shine onto the mosaic covered floor and bar. The central, horseshoe-shaped bar is awash with intricate stained glass and is notable for its bunches of glass grapes and huge, golden eagle watching over drinkers. The least elaborate bar at the front of the pub contains a TV and glazed lamps in the windows, each resembling the Statue of Liberty’s torch.

Believed by many to be haunted, the Grenadier in London’s Mayfair, is an atmospheric old pub filled with character and military history. On one of the walls of the tiny pub, which has long enjoyed a reputation as one of the most haunted pubs in London, yellowed newspapers tell of the pubs haunted history, and a small crucifix hangs on a wall of the cellar to ward off harmful spirits. Unassumingly situated in a tucked away mews, the Grenadier has a decidedly country village air about it and despite its haunted reputation, it is one of London’s most enchanting pubs.

For more information about visiting England, please visit www.VisitEngland.com<http://www.visitengland.com/>.




A Romantic Journey Down the Göta Canal

Gota Canal - Sweden

Since 1869, the Göta Canal is a place where the North Sea joins the Baltic is a waterway that takes one through a journey across Swedish history.

Take a leisurely cruise down the Gota Canal, which is one of the world’s most impressive waterways, stretching across Sweden, linking Göteborg (Gothenburg) in the west and Stockholm in the east.

The impressive Göta, nicknamed the “divorce ditch”, is a canal route that passes the archipelagos of thousands of islands and through 66 locks. The canal earned this nickname from the troubles that couples endured while trying to navigate the many locks by themselves.

This turned into an opportunity for the Göta Canal Steamship Company, who now offers old-fashioned extravagance aboard one of their three elegant steamers.

Your journey can vary in length. You can choose from a one-night ‘taster’ or spend a full week meandering down the Gota Canal.

There are many memorable sites along the way, which includes several stops en route. You will cruise past fortress ruins, medieval cloister, Royal Palaces, 12th century churches, picturesque hamlets and lush Swedish forests.

Göta Canal is member of the Romantik Hotels and Restaurants, and offers some of the finest cuisine in all of Sweden.

Food menus are based on fresh ingredients from local suppliers all along the canal route. Since food without wine is like a boat without an anchor, a sommelier will be onboard the ship to recommend the best wine to sip while enjoying your cruise and watching the sun set on deck.




Charitybuzz Auction – 2012 Olympic Games in London

2012 London Summer Olympics

The 2012 Olympic Games will be held in London this summer. Would you like the chance to attend the Summer Olympics as a VIP?

Charitybuzz is offering an exciting auction and the winner gets the opportunity to go to London, in addition to help raise funds for the U.S. Olympic Committee.

The whole world united every four years and the 2012 Olympic Games in London is expected to be possibly the best ever. Now get the chance to see the best of the games in luxury style.

Charitybuzz is the leading charity auction site and in partnership with the U.S. Olympic Committee, is offering an incredible $50,000 Olympics package that features inside access and luxury accommodations to the 2012 Summer Olympics.

The auction’s winning bidder plus a guest has the opportunity to design their own unique Olympic adventure. Be front and center for all the gold-medal action with an all-expense trip to London, including event tickets, special access and more!

Auction package details:
Accommodations at the four-star Hilton London Metropole, conveniently located near the Olympic Games site
• Pre-selected tickets to a variety of popular sporting events that include swimming, basketball, track, beach volleyball and more
• Personal concierge service from a U.S. Olympic Committee staff member
• 2 five-day passes to USA House, the U.S. Olympic Committee’s official business and hospitality center
• Two passes to the exclusive CoSport hospitality center
• Access to a special reception with Olympians and Paralympians
• Commemorative Olympics merchandise

Proceeds benefit the U.S. Olympic Committee, supporting U.S. Olympic and Paralympic athletes in achieving sustained competitive excellence.

Bidding is open now through Thursday, January 19th, at http://www.charitybuzz.com/catalog_items/291955




Hotel du Palais – France

Hotel du Palais - France
Courtesy of: Hotel du Palais

The luxury Hotel du Palais in Biarritz was built in 1855. This five-star hotel overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, and has been permanently restored boasting a glamorous five-story Guerlain Imperial Spa.

The legendary Hotel du Palais is well-known for its surfing spots and a glamorous jetset scene, and was once the palatial summer home of Napoleon III and Empress Eugenia.

This truly grandiose oceanfront villa in Basque Country, has interiors with restored nineteenth-century antiques and décor dating all the way back from the Second Empire.

This upcoming summer, Hotel du Palais will host a wide selection of both exciting and culturally enriching events, including a Dior jewelry exhibition, classical
musical and dance performances, art auctions and a special guest chef.

Art & Accessories – Hotel du Palais will host a DIOR Jewelry Presentation showcasing the latest collection from this legendary fashion house (July 28-August 14); French artist Maître Françoise Carayol will be auctioning some of his finest works including antiques and paintings (August 6-9), and local ceramist Joël Cazaux will display many of his signature pieces (August 9-18).

Sounds of Summer – Hotel du Palais is highlighting virtuosic concerts performances throughout the summer: a cello-piano duet featuring some of the Romantic Era’s greatest pieces (June 27), the world-renowned Ballet Flamenco de Maria Carrasco from Madrid (July 14), soprano Princesses Sophie and Catherine Galitzine of Russia (July 23), and a four-hand duet from piano prodigies Lidija and Sanja Bizjak (August 4).

Culinary Delights – In accordance with the annual Indian “Festival Namaste,” celebrated Chef Hemant Oberoi, Grand Chef of the Taj Group of Hotels and Executive Chef of the Taj Mahal Palace & Tower in Mumbai will be a guest chef to the hotel’s world-class restaurants (July 1-7).

For additional information, please visit: www.Hotel-du-Palais.com




What to See in Berlin, Germany

Berlin - Brandenburg Gate

Berlin is the capital of Germany and one of the most fascinating cities in all of Europe. A visit to Berlin will provide exciting sightseeing, superb gourmet food, the newest in modern art, and a fantastic nightlife.

During the many years World War II, many of Berlin’s buildings where heavily damaged. After the reunification process, almost all were rebuilt.

As World War II ended, the Allies had Berlin divided up into four different sectors. In West Berlin, the Americans, the British and the French controlled this sector.  In the Eastern part of Berlin, the USSR had control.

Since the fall of the infamous Berlin Wall in 1989, the city was incredibly merged together. Now, the united Berlin is once again the capital of all of Germany.

The landmark Brandenburger Tor, at 85 feet (26 meters) in height, was originally the main gate to Berlin. During the bleak years of the Cold War, the Brandenburger Tor was a forgotten icon in run-down East Berlin. Now it proudly represents the symbol of German reunification.

Another very important historical building is the German Parliament Building, also named the Reichstag Building.

Reichstag building

After a 1933 fire destroyed the dome, Adolph Hitler used the accident to declare a state of emergency in Germany. But 12 years later the Red Army showed their victory by planting a flag on the roof.

After a major renovation, the building reopened in 1999. Significant improvements included a brand new, spectacular glass dome.

Visitors will find man many remains of the Cold War in Berlin. For one, Check Point Charlie is great example.

Originally, Check Point Charlie was a primary crossing point between East and West Berlin. Its museum showcases a reminder of difficult time in Berlin’s history.

In the Haus am Checkpoint Charlie, view photos, and various memorabilia from the Berlin Wall and an assortment of devices that were used by citizens to escape from the East to the West.

Berlin boasts a variety of fine shopping. Here you can find Europe’s largest department store, called KaDeWe.

Make a trip to the sixth floor, where the food and beverage department is located. Gourmet lovers can rejoice and find approximately 1700 different cheeses, 1000 different sausages and 800 types of bread.

Berlin hosts a multitude of weekend markets. Several of the best ones include: Grosser Berliner Trdel- und Kunstmarkt at Strasse de 17. Juni in Tiergarten, Kunst-und Nostalgiemarkt at the Museumsinsel and Flohmarkt am Arkonaplatz.

At Christmas time, indulge in the taste of sausages, waffles and the popular German Gluhwein at one of the many festive, Weihnachtsmarkt events around the city.




Cyprus – Where The Elite Choose To Vacation

Island of Cyprus - Ancient ruins

In the heart of the Mediterranean you will find an island both rich in history and finely tuned with the 21st century requirements – Cyprus. An outstanding cultural experience, never forgetting it’s ancient past and highlighting it’s presence in Europe.

Cyprus is a discoverer’s dream come true with spell bounding beaches, inviting mountain peaks, olive tree groves, as well as aromatic lemon trees and the remains of past cultures. It can only found in Cyprus.

There are so many villas to choose from in beautiful Cyprus, either near the beaches or inland. The holiday resorts offer quality surroundings, magnificent landscapes and a variety of cultural activity.

The luxurious accommodation alone will allow your family to share some unreal quality time together. You might decide to opt for one of the many exclusive apartments available as short term or long term rental, like those in Paphos which have great access to the many beaches there.

Also available are a complete choice of Cyprus villas as rentals. You will find Cyprus villas and immaculate apartments with rental properties also available in Coral Bay, Peyia, Kamares, and Aphrodite Hills. All of these villas offer a variety of amenities, air- conditioning, outstanding hygiene, 24 hour room service and virtually anything you could possibly ask for on vacation. The villas also overlook the sea and include a swimming pool, ideal for both adults and kids. Sporting entertainment includes both golf courses and skiing resorts.

Different Cyprus holiday villas have the following locations available: Sea Caves Villa: Sea Caves is a residential area located near Paphos on the island of Cyprus. Different villas are located here, which give the comfort of proximity from airport and easy access to restaurants, bars and shops. It also gives easy access from Akamas Peninsula and other swimming places.

Coral bay Area Villas: Excellent villas for anyone wishing to be really close to the beach. Kato Paphos Villas: You will be able to go for a swim in a luxurious pool close by the Hesperides Gardens. Pervolia: A wonderful landscaped pool with some of the best tavernas on the island. Secret Valley Resort Villa: A testing golf course followed a dip in a luxury villa. Peyia Village Villa: These luxurious villas are found between Peyia and coral bay. Central Paphos: Villas close by the city and offers an excellent choice of restaurants.

Every villa in holiday Cyprus is perfect for both holidaymakers and businessmen whether young or old. Find the surrounding peace and tranquility amidst the ancient villages. At the same time you at close proximity to the coastal resorts with the memorable nightlife. So step out of your rental villa’s front door and you will find everything you need to make a perfect holiday.

If you want to experience the joys of the most spectacular landscapes then rent a villa in Northern Cyprus. You are guaranteed the most relaxing of holidays with non stop fun and it suits all ages. Why not see the sights, go shopping at the local markets, try out a variety of aquatic sports or just good old sunbathing could be what you need on the unspoiled beaches of Cyprus.




Benidorm – Popular Coastal Resort Area in Spain

Benidorm Spain

Most people who have ever visited Benidorm in Spain, would find it difficult to believe that it was simply a small fishing village as recently as the 1950’s.

Many don’t realize that Benidorm’s rise as one of Europe hottest destinations has been rapid and spectacular one.

Modern day Benidorm is now the largest tourist resort area in all of Europe. More than four million people visit each year. Benidorm can be found on the Northern Costa Blanca, Spain between the cities of Alicante and Valencia.

Benidorm is one of the most vibrant and electrified vacation destinations in all of Europe. It’s close proximity to the Alicante Airport, along with multiple options for a wide variety of accommodations, make Benidorm a perfect travel destination.

A visit to Benidorm must include a trip to at least one of the many amusement parks in the area. Choices include the immense Aqualandia, the largest water park in Europe, with its slides, lazy rivers, pools and water rides is very popular.

There is also the educational Terra Mitica amusement park with its ancient civilization themes from ancient Greece, the Greek Islands, Rome, Egypt, and Iberia.

In addition, there’s Mundomar – an aquatic and marine animal park with dolphins, parrots, penguins, seals and sea lions all on display, along with Europe’s largest aquarium and an underwater dolphinarium.

Golf is another year round activity that is very popular in Benidorm. Golf enthusiasts who play these beautiful courses take full advantage of the fantastic climate, making Benidorm a golfer’s dream.

There are more than a dozen golf clubs located in and around Benidorm. In Chiva there is the Bosque Community and Golf Club. Mutxamel has the Bonalba Golf Club and the Alicante Golf Club is on the San Juan Beach.

The beaches in Benidorm are kept warm year round by the mountains on the border that both traps in the warm Mediterranean Sea air and blocks out the cold northern winds. The town of Benidorm is divided into two major sections and the beaches are divided accordingly. There are the Playa de Levante and Playa de Poniente.

Both beaches are beautiful stretches of white sand that the Costa Blanca was named for, but Levante is much less crowded. Levante is also a topless beach. Levante is full of coves and areas of the Mediterranean Sea attract scuba divers as well as fishermen.

Benidorm is probably most well known above all else, is its nightlife. The town has more than 30 nightclubs for dancing and more than a thousand restaurants and bars located on or mere seconds away from the beaches. Party goers can enjoy both the fun in the sun and after dark in this city that stays lively 24 hours a day.




Spending Time in The City of Lights – Fabulous Paris, France

Paris France - Eiffel Tower skyline

Paris is known all around the world as the “city of lights and “romance”. Visiting Paris can be a lifetime experience and is the ideal blend of civilization, travel, and cuisine.

There are a lot of wonderful places you can see in Paris, in addition to numerous other things you can do during your stay in Paris.

First of all, you should visit the Cathedral Notre Dame which is located in the heart of Paris. This is a truly a work of art when it comes to the French Gothic architecture. It has amazing rose windows and the interior is absolutely enormous. For those who love architecture, there is also the Sainte Chapelle, which is a beautiful attraction based on Gothic architecture.

Any trip to Paris must include a visit to the Louvre. Here you can find the most prominent works of art from all over the globe. There are also pieces of art that were formerly collected by the French Royalty and were later donated to the museum.

If you are an art enthusiast, you don’t want to miss the Musee d’Orsay, which houses a large collection of paintings, sculptures, and many other artistic items.

While in Paris, you can also experience the famous French cuisine which is exclusive. The finest restaurants in the city are the Les Fontaines, Au Bistrot de la Sorbonne, Les Degres de Notre-Dame, Au Jardin des Pates, and many others. In addition there are also great Paris bars and clubs including Batofar, La Locomotive, and Mustangs.

There are some very nice parks and gardens in Paris which have fantasy landscapes and open spaces where you can take a stroll, rest on a park bench, and also have an enjoyable picnic.

When it comes to shopping in Paris, it is one of the things the city is famous for. There are large designer shops as well as small shops that sell everything from antiques to other local products such as clothes, pottery, wine, and books.

Of course, one of the greatest attractions in Paris is the mighty Eiffel Tower. If you are lucky enough to stand on top of the Eiffel Tower, you are able to get a fantastic view of the city in all directions. Inside the Eiffel Tower is also a cinema, a bar, and several restaurants.

Another grand museum that is a must see is the Musee du Quai Branly, which has works from Africa, Oceania, America, and Asia. You can see costumes, music instruments, masks, and other artifacts from various continents.

There is also the National Picasso Museum which has all the phases of art by Pablo Picasso – from his preparatory sketches to large sculptures.




Salzburg Castle – Mightiest Fortress of Central Europe

Salzburg Castle

Salzburg Castle in or better known as Festung Hohensalzburg or Hohensalzburg Fortress in Austria, is the mightiest fortress of Central Europe.

This powerful castle sits in a prominent position, as Salzburg Austria’s prime attraction and most dominant feature of the city’s skyline. The historic Salzburg Castle should not to be missed during any visit to Salzburg.

The first record of a fortification on the southern side of the Mönchsberg Mountain dates back to Roman time, but this is not certain. However, it would make sense: from the position of Hohensalzburg Castle one can see the surroundings of Salzburg and the Salzach river better than anywhere else in the entire city.

Prince Archbishop Eberhard (1060 to 1088) built the first castle on the Festungsberg in 1077. Initially, this was little more than a bailey with a wooden wall, serving mostly for the protection of Imperial troops of the Holy Roman Empire. However, during the “Investiturstreit”, a struggle for power between Pope Gregor VII. and Emperor Henry IV., Prince Archbishop Eberhard decided to stand by the Pope.

After 1933, Salzburg became one of the areas in Austria that were most fiercely targeted by Nazi underground terrorists, many of them exiled Austrians themselves, fighting for a union with Nazi Germany.

When some Nazis launched an attack in Lamprechtshausen near Salzburg, they were imprisoned in the fortress in 1934. This was the last time that Hohensalzburg Castle held prisoners. In more recent years, Hohensalzburg was renovated extensively and so looks into a shiny future.




The Best of Ireland Golf

Ireland Golf Course

There are many different golf destinations that you have to choose from including Ireland which is one of the greatest golf destinations in the world. Ireland is filled with over three hundred golf courses.

There are many golf course scattered across Ireland including the Ballybunion Golf Club in Ballybunion, Co. Kerry, Ireland which was founded in 1893. The designer of the course was Tom Watson. The championship length of the course is six thousand six hundred and thirty eight yards.

The course has seventy one pars in all. This particular golf course is extremely popular with golf enthusiasts all round for world and is even rated as one of the ten best golf courses in the world.

Located in Drogheda, Ireland is the Baltary Golf Club which is one of the most popular golf courses in all of the Ireland. The course is extremely popular among the locals. This course was founded in 1892 but the layout was changed in 1938. This golf course was designed by Tom Simpson. The Baltary Golf Club course is a seventy three par course that consists of seven thousand and thirty one yards. The golf course can be found five miles north of Dublin and just five miles northeast of Drogheda.

Founded in 1901 the Castlerock Golf Club is one of the most popular golf courses in Ireland. The course can be found in Castlerock, Co. Derry, Ireland. This course was designed by Ben Sayer and Harry Colt. Castlerock Golf Club is a seventy three par course that consists of six thousand seven hundred and forty seven yards in all. The golf course is located a few minutes from Portstewart. It is an extremely popular golf course.

Founded in 1993 is the European Golf Club which is one of the newest courses in all of Ireland. Pat Ruddy designed the course which is located in Brittas Bay, Co. Wicklow, Ireland. The European Golf Club course is a seventy one par course and spans an area of seven thousand one hundred and forty nine total yards. This golf course has become extremely popular in a short period of time. It is one of the finest links golf courses in all of Ireland.

Designed by J. Carr, R. Kirby, E. Hackett and P. Merrigan, the Old Head of Kinsale Golf Club was founded in 1997 and is one of the newest courses in Ireland. The golf course is located in Old Head, Kinsale, Co. Cork, Ireland. The Old Head of Kinsale Golf Club course which spans an area consisting of seven thousand one hundred and twenty one yards is a seventy two par course. Many people say that his golf course is considered by most people to be one of the most amazing golf creations of all time.

The Royal Dublin Golf Club is a seventy two par course and was founded in 1889. The Royal Dublin Golf Club consists of an area that spans an area of seven thousand three hundred and ten yards. The course was designed by H.S. Colt. This is an extremely old golf course and ranks as the second oldest course in Ireland. The Royal Dublin Golf Club is among the best Irish link course. The golf course is located in Dollymount Ireland. It can be found approximately five miles northeast of Dublin City.
Courtesy of: Richard E Baly – GolfCocktail.com




Enjoy The Holidays at a Corinthia Hotels Property in Europe

Corinthia Hotels Budapest
Corinthia Hotels Budapest

Corinthia Hotels Luxury Property in Europe

Corinthia Hotels offers a luxury collection of five-star properties located in some of the most beautiful European cities including: London, Prague, Lisbon, Budapest, St. Petersburg, plus the Mediterranean island of Malta.

If you are considering a luxury getaway to Europe, for the Christmas and New Year’s Eve holidays, a stay at one of the Corinthia Hotels should be your choice.

It doesn’t matter if you want to enjoy your holiday festivities from elaborate Christmas dinners to red carpet New Year’s Eve balls, or prefer to spend quiet time getting pampered in a spa and indulging in world class dining, the Corinthia Hotels are prepared to make this a “holiday to remember.”

Corinthia Hotel London – newly opened April 2011
Experience the festive season in unrivaled luxury and elegance at the recently opened Corinthia Hotel London.  The hotel boasts some of the largest rooms and suites in the very heart of London with Trafalgar Square on the north bank of the Thames, across from the London Eye.  Corinthia’s new flagship offers a variety of culinary delights, including contemporary modern British cuisine in The Northall and Mediterranean seafood in Massimo Restaurant and Oyster Bar.  Packages start at £299 per night (approx $467) for two including breakfast and dinner.

Enjoy a traditional British Afternoon Tea with a festive twist in the Corinthia Hotel London’s Lobby Lounge – whose chic, serene surroundings have you seated beneath the stunning Baccarat crystal ‘Full-Moon’ Chandelier. The seasonal menu reflects classic British Christmas foods in miniature form alongside traditional afternoon tea treats, carefully crafted using premium British produce with all recipes overseen by world renowned Pastry Chef Claire Clark, MBE.  With Laurent-Perrier and Louis Roederer Brut Rosé available, in addition to an array of teas, including bespoke blends created especially for Corinthia London.  Afternoon Tea starts at £35 (approx $55).

After a holiday of indulgence, embrace the New Year with a renewed dedication to wellbeing at the four-story ESPA Life at Corinthia, the largest hotel spa in London.   Starting at £195 (approx $300), a one-day detox will clarify and revitalize body and mind, melting away accumulated stress, leaving you fresh for the New Year.

Corinthia Hotel Budapest, Hungary
Capture the spirit of Christmas with a special two-night package at the Corinthia Hotel Budapest, the only hotel in Hungary included in TripAdvisor’s list of the top 25 hotels in Europe, which has been a city landmark for over a century.  Enjoy comfortable accommodation, traditional food with live entertainment and pampering at the Royal Spa, from €374 (approx $506) for two nights.

The Corinthia Hotel Budapest’s Royal Spa, which first opened in 1886, has been beautifully restored to the original splendor of the 19th century, while offering the latest state-of-the-art features of the 21st century, such as a 15 meter swimming pool, several relaxation areas, saunas, steam bath, Jacuzzis, a fitness room, multisensory shower, as well as a variety of therapeutic and massage treatments.

Corinthia Hotel St Petersburg, Russia
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Russian opulence at Corinthia Hotel St Petersburg with its special three-night New Year’s package, starting at €998 (approx $1350) for two people, including airport transfers.  Enjoy deluxe accommodations, sumptuous buffet breakfast and New Year’s Eve celebration at the Imperial Restaurant with an exquisite gala buffet featuring a seafood bar, wide selection of International and Russian delicacies, free-flowing wines, vodka, champagne for the midnight toast and live entertainment.

Ideally located in the heart of St. Petersburg on Nevsky Prospect, the 400-room Corinthia Hotel St Petersburg, following extensive refurbishment and restructuring work, now boasts more rooms and more facilities under one roof than any other luxury hotel in the city. 

Corinthia Hotel Prague, Czech Republic
Escape to the Corinthia Hotel Prague and enjoy upscale accommodation, pampering at the Apollo Day Spa and a 30-minute massage starting from €79 (approx $106) per night, valid for stays of at least two nights. On New Year’s Eve, attend the Red Carpet Glamour Party to kick off 2012 in style. Walk down the red carpet, sip champagne and feel the glitz at the Corinthia Hotel Prague with a live band playing famous movie title songs.

Standing on top of one of Prague’s seven hills, the Corinthia Hotel Prague offers stunning panoramic views of the colorful city from its top floor ballroom as well as from the indoor swimming pool.

Corinthia Hotel Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, one of the most fashionable European capitals, is the backdrop for a special Christmas. For € 145 (approx $196) per person, guests can enjoy a two-night stay at Corinthia Hotel Lisbon, including a special Christmas Eve dinner or Christmas lunch at Sete Colinas Restaurant with live music with a duo New Jazz Band.

The Award-winning Corinthia Hotel Lisbon is located in the heart of the financial district, a short distance from the historic city center, as well as the Lisbon International Airport.  The modern, stylish hotel offers stunning views of the 18th century Aqueduct and beautiful Monsanto Natural Park.

Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa, Malta
Celebrate an exquisitely traditional Christmas at Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa with gourmet cuisine, live entertainment and a Christmas stocking from Santa starting at €261  (approx $353) for two nights.

Set in the beautifully landscaped gardens of a 19th century restored villa the Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa was the very first property in the Corinthia portfolio. Located across the street from the Presidential Palace and Botanical Gardens, it is in close proximity to the capital, Valetta, and the ancient walled city of Mdina

Corinthia Hotel St George’s Bay, Malta
Corinthia Hotel St George Bay offers a New Year’s countdown you will never forget in a Mediterranean atmosphere. Usher in the New Year at Corinthia, with its fun atmosphere and diverse entertainment starting at €532 (approx $720) based on two guests sharing for three nights. The New Year Eve’s package includes sumptuous buffet breakfast at Fra Martino restaurant, VIP treatment of truffles and liqueur in your room upon arrival, New Year’s Eve buffet dinner in the hotel’s main dining room with live entertainment, and free use of the facilities at the Apollo day Spa, which include the indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and fitness studio.

Every room at the Corinthia Hotel St. George’s Bay has a terrace offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and an architectural landscape that reflects the many cultural influences on this lovely, charming, Island.

For additional information, please visit www.corinthia.com/christmas.