travelog

VE Day Celebrations at Peninsula, London; A Friend from Rome Visits; The Patisserie at Pan Pacific, London & Mum Looks So Well - London/ Shrewsbury - May 2025

2/6/2025

Celebrating VE Day at Peninsula, London with Beef Wellington with Black Truffles

I watched the VE Day flypast from the Concorde themed Brooklands Bar at Peninsula, London, which looks over the gardens of Buckingham Palace. Quite a place to watch it from.

Then I went down to The Lobby to eat Beef Wellington, with black truffles, personally cooked by Chef Saravanan Chamy, who previously worked at The Dorchester. It was better than Chef Gordon Ramsay's Beef Wellington at The Savoy. Never thought I would be able to say that.

Later in the month Wiltons matched Peninsula, London's Beef Wellington but they have been perfecting their dishes since 1742.

Lunch at 45 Park Lane & Dinner at The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park With a Friend From Rome

At lunch at 45 Park Lane with my friend from Rome, Chef Elliott Grover and his team treated us as VIPs. From Ruinart champagne, to too many Wolfgang Puck signature snacks to count and a Passion Fruit Baked Alaska that was dreamily refreshing.

My face, in the cover photo, says everything about our dinner in The Aubrey. It was such a beautiful room and the bone marrow rice was even better the second time. Romain, and his Mandarin Oriental team, spoilt us with double portions of Iberico Pork etc.

My Rome friend is a joy to spend time with & I was so glad to try to help her with her daughter's 18th birthday celebrations.

GM of Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair Leaving

During May 2025 Susanne, GM of Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair, emailed me that she is moving within Mandarin Oriental Group. We first met when she was GM of Mandarin Oriental, Manhattan.

It was another month where I had a flawless breakfast at their Mayfair hotel and was even given the scent of that hotel, to add to my expanding hotel fragrance collection.

The New Patisserie at Pan Pacific, London

Pan Pacific, London are always so kind to me. They give me champagne each time I go for breakfast. However, on my May 2025 visit, their new Patisserie had opened. I selected cakes and macarons and, even I, was surprised when they then said "no bill for you Mr Frew".

The cakes were light and delicious and the macarons so fresh they reminded me of ones I had at the Four Seasons George V in Paris.

Flowers Inside & Outside My Barbican Place. Philip & Bruce Are Floral Geniuses

May 2025 was the month my Barbican window boxes were redone in the style of a pre-COVID-19 Four Seasons at Park Lane design, with lavender & rosemary to provide fragrance this summer.

The weekend of the work I ordered Dorchester hotel flowers from Philip Hammond again, including purples to celebrate 45 Park Lane and Dorchester hotel roses. I was so thrilled with them and the work Bruce has done on my window boxes.

Perfect Four Seasons in London

I visited the breakfast buffet at Four Seasons, Tower Bridge twice in the month, it is so good.

At Four Seasons at Park Lane Peter made Issy an 'SF Martini', with the special vermouth from The Lana Hotel in Dubai (part of Dorchester Collection). I almost cried over this thoughtful surprise.

Foodie Shrewsbury & Mum Looking So Healthy

From a seasonal asparagus breakfast at C Sons; to mouthwatering steaks & fun cocktails at The Ol'Chemist; to the melt in the mouth roast beef at The Golden Cross, food in Shrewsbury keeps getting even better.

It should also be noted that the Wagyu Oxtail & Bone Marrow Fried Rice we ate in Knightsbridge cost £26, while Bone Marrow Mash at The Ol-Chemist costs £4.

It has to be another '8 teddies' score (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) for May 2025. I have not even mentioned my night at The Waldorf Hilton with one of my best friends from Qatar. Another evening with him I will never forget. If you click 'Read More' there are photos from that night. The fact mum is cared for so well is another factor in this high score.

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Birthday Balloons at Four Seasons, Tower Bridge; a Four Seasons @ Park Lane Easter Egg; My Brother's Family Easter Sunday Birthday; & the Little Blue Noodle Bar @ Peninsula, London - London/ Shrewsbury - April 2025

8/5/2025

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May 2025 has had an exceptional start already, with an unforgettable Early May Bank Holiday VE Day at Peninsula, London & fabulous lunch with my friend from Rome, at 45 Park Lane but you will all have to wait util next month to hear about all that.

A 'Last' Slice of Birthday Cake at Mount Street Restaurant

I started April 2025 eating a perfect bacon chop breakfast at Mount Street Restaurant surrounded by £50MN of art.

At the end of breakfast I was brought a deliciously moreish slice of chocolate fudge birthday cake, to celebrate the previous month's birthday.

Birthday Balloons at Four Seasons, Tower Bridge

Four Seasons, Tower Bridge made up for the lack of birthday balloons at Four Seasons at Park Lane at a breakfast in April too. It was a buffet breakfast but the hot items were freshly, & perfectly, cooked (eg soft scrambled eggs) and the cold items were delectable (eg beetroot smoked salmon).

After this I picked up a Pavyllon, London Easter Egg from Four Seasons at Park Lane. It smelt incredible.

Chef Tom Booton's Grill at The Dorchester

Before I left for Shrewsbury I had to experience The Grill at The Dorchester. The butter shaped as a jelly mould in the photo gives an indication of the attention to detail.

During that breakfast I wrote an important note to the mother of my godson. She has 'ghosted' me since I let her stay at my Barbican place last year, during my 6 week trip to mark 10 years of www.sifrew.com

I was pleading with her, again, to return the set of keys for my place she borrowed from the porters in my building for her stay. 'Ghosting' is such a cruel way deal with someone who has been a friend for more than 30 years.

Another '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) month. The birthday balloons at Four Seasons, Tower Bridge; an exclusive chance to sample the 'Little Blue Noodle Bar' @ Peninsula, London (press 'Read More' for that write-up & photos) and mum being so physically well & happy are all I could have hoped for.

The Four Seasons at Park Lane Easter Egg was the best I have EVER eaten. Dark chocolate from Peru & a silky hazelnut praline filling. Peninsula, London gave me a bar of their version of Dubai chocolate was equally delicious. Also need to mention my Black Pudding Eggs Benedict at Fallow. An exceptional breakfast dish.

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45 Park Lane; Peninsula, London; The Emory & Unbelievable Friends, a Birthday Beyond Compare - London - March 2025

31/3/2025

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Just booked Easter in Shrewsbury with mum. She loves this time of year.

A Birthday Surrounded by Love

Gus from Uruguay, & his sister Laura, celebrating my birthday with me would have been special anyway but going to The Royal Opera House to watch a George Balanchine ballet, drinking Veuve Clicquot champagne in the interval, was better than anything.

Our friend Johan treating us all to dinners (including Yauatcha & The Wolseley) was so kind & generous. We all drank 'SF Martinis' in The Wolseley, and ate my birthday cake from 45 Park Lane, on the evening of Gus & my birthdays. Complete perfection.

My 'Birthday Eve', Almost Better Than My Birthday

The day before my birthday started at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park with balloons, complimentary champagne, an extra portion of dim sum and my 'usual' table watching the Household Cavalry ride past, while talking to Pim about the earthquake in Myanmar, Vietnam and Thailand.

Outside Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park the Peninsula, London's vintage Rolls-Royce was waiting for me.

Peninsula, London Keep Exceeded My Expectations

At Peninsula, London MD Rolf, Manager Scott and the Peninsula, London teddy bear were waiting to greet me. Rolf told me the vintage Rolls-Royce took 5 years to refurbish to Peninsula's standards.

Up in Concorde/ Rolls-Royce themed 'Brooklands Bar' 'The Si Frew' cocktail had been created in my honour and was refreshingly delicious.

While I was in the bar Chef Francesco Dibenedetto came to chat again and later presented me with a bottle of olive oil from his parents' place in Italy. I was overwhelmed by this, and two bottles of the 'The Si Frew' cocktail with special Peninsula labels.

The Royal Opera House

It was 30 years since I last saw a ballet at The Royal Opera House. The evening was a surreal experience made even better by sitting next to Laura.

Another Si Frew Birthday

The actual day of my birthday started with breakfast at Four Seasons, London at Park Lane and hugs from their staff.

There were no balloons this year, or complimentary champagne, but Emma from Qatar joining me for a champagne breakfast more than made up for this, and the reduced birthday cake.

My gift was a Four Seasons pillow case personalised with my initials. Love this & it is already on my Dorchester hotel bed here in The Barbican. My Barbican bedroom currently smells like 45 Park Lane, thanks to one of their birthday gifts.

45 Park Lane Keep Blowing My Mind

Nothing about my birthday lunch at 45 Park Lane could have been any better.

A balloon on a golden thread; the 'SF Martini' being on another Wolfgang Puck cocktail list with beautiful wording; Chef Elliott Grover's mind-blowing good Wagyu steaks; another impressive (& delicious) birthday cake and Emily, Veronica and all the staff making me feel like a VVVIP.

Gifts including Ruinart champagne, and then being told my bill had been covered was just too much.

A Deep Tissue Adaptogenic Massage & Snow Shower at Surrenne at 'The Emory'

In the afternoon was my complimentary spa experience at The Emory, thanks to Roland Fasel at Maybourne Hotels.

Before the massage I tried the pool and snow shower. My massage involved infrared and music therapy. It was so relaxing, special and perfect.

I left my iPhone charging cable in the Surrenne spa. One of the concierges at Four Seasons, London at Park Lane went to retrieve this, while I was at dinner at The Wolseley. Four Seasons service at its best.

After Dinner at The Wolseley Drinks at Four Seasons, London at Park Lane

After dinner we returned to Four Seasons, London at Park Lane. I had left my gifts there &, as I said, their concierges were retrieving my charging cable.

We decided to have some last drinks and separate birthday cakes were produced for Gus & me. Peter did not charge me for my 'last SF Martini', which was a very kind gesture at the end of a perfect birthday day & helped to made up for the lack of complimentary champagne that morning.

Breakfast at Raffles, London at The OWO

The last of my birthday celebrations had to be at Raffles, London at The OWO. MD Philippe, and Manager Patrick, are both leaving in June 2025 but they have been so kind and generous to me and Philippe will become CEO of Dorchester Collection, including 45 Park Lane.

It was also UK Mothering Sunday and so I rang my mum and she had received my card with the photo of her I love on it.

I was so pleased Natalia was running breakfast again but sad to hear 'La Dame de Pic', the Anne-Sophie Pic restaurant at Four Seasons, Tower Bridge has closed down.

A birthday that rates 9 cover photos is clearly an '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) one. 45 Park Lane; Peninsula, London & The Emory all went way beyond the call of duty. My TWA Hotel bag now also sports a Peninsula luggage tag.

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Meeting Chef Nobu Matsuhisa; Lunch at 'Kioku by Endo'; A Breakfast Chat With Lynn Brutman, GM of Four Seasons, London at Park Lane; Celebrating Mum's Birthday; the 'SF Martini' Served in 'The Spy Bar' at Raffles at The OWO - Feb & Mar 2025

10/3/2025

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Having just 'survived' a particularly nasty bout of flu, felt I must explain the last few weeks.

Another Dream Comes True

Meeting Chef Nobu Matsuhisa was another dream come true and GM Grant Campbell & his team at Nobu Hotel London Portman Square made it such a special Sunday afternoon.

The 'SF Martini' was served again; Nobu's signature dishes are always much better than I expect & talking abut Nobu partner Robert De Niro was fascinating.,

Unbelievable Japanese Dishes on The Roof of Raffles, London at The OWO

Various people had recommended 'Kioku by Endo' on the roof of Raffles, London at The OWO and so I had to try it.

The views from there are spectacular and you must try their fatty tuna. My monkfish dish with smoked eel and watercress & ginger sauce was exceptional.

Breakfast at Pavyllon at Four Seasons, London at Park Lane

I had breakfasts at both Four Seasons in London after I got back from Shrewsbury.

The breakfasts at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge continue to impress but the Park Lane hotel has been picked for my birthday weekend.

It was good to meet with GM Lynn Brutman again and talk about Chef Yannick Alleno's stipulation that there must be a French twist to their breakfasts.

The Best Birthday Mum Could Have Had

I went to Shrewsbury to celebrate mum's 82nd birthday.

From a perfect dinner with her in The Golden Cross; to a family Sunday lunch with her including my brother and me; to a beautiful cashmere scarf gift from one of her best friends; to me arriving on the day of her birthday to find a family friend already visiting her, it could not have gone any better.

The 'SF Martini' Served in The 'Spy Bar' at Raffles, London at The OWO; Pie, Mash & Liquor at The Grill by Tom Booton at The Dorchester; The 'Big Matt' at Hawksmoor, Guildhall & 'Pancake Day' at The Ivy City Garden

It was a few weeks of many exceptional dining & 'SF Martini' experiences (eg Chef Tom Booton's collaboration with pie & mash shop G Kelly led to a sublime chicken & mushroom pie, made even better by chilli vinegar. That, combined with the smooth mash & flavoursome liquor, made it all heaven on a plate).

Kiki and the team in the 'Spy Bar' at Raffles, London at The OWO are phenomenal.

Has The Ivy Expanded Too Far? & The Quality of the Ingredients in One Aldwych's Breakfast Should Justify Their High Prices

My only negative comments are that service at The Ivy City Garden was appalling (eg a drink ordered but forgotten and food & drinks not ordered attempted to be served several times).

The pastries served at One Aldwych were not fresh and the tomatoes, in my chorizo & egg dish, tasted processed, as did the Kent apple juice.

'SF Martini' Created by The Lana, Dubai, a Dorchester Collection Hotel

My 'SF Martini' will be served in The Wolseley on 29 March, the actual day of my birthday, thanks to The Dorchester. Still cannot believe I will be able to use The Peninsula, London's extended wheelbase green Rolls-Royce again on my 'Birthday Eve'.

It was another '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) few weeks, despite my illness. the afternoon with Chef Nobu alone would justify that score. Hope you enjoy the photos below.

I have breakfast with Roland Fasel again at Claridge's tomorrow. He is COO of Maybourne, which manages Claridge's, The Connaught, The Emory etc. We have know each other for more than 20 years. We first met when he was GM of The Dorchester.

It is a little ironic that The Emory are the only hotel not to have replied to any of my numerous messages about swimming in their pool on my birthday.

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Christmas & New Year in London, Orthodox Christmas with Mum in Shrewsbury & Chinese New Year at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge - London & Shrewsbury - December 2024, January & February 2025

22/1/2025

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Two Christmases & two New Years, justify an unprecedented 6 cover photos.

An Unimaginably Perfect Christmas & New Year in London

From meeting Gavin (from my Shrewsbury School days) and his daughter Esther at 45 Park Lane for a Chef Elliott Grover lunch just before Christmas, they live in Fiji; to Four Seasons at Park Lane's astonishing disco Christmas tree; to friends from my Bermuda days, & their family, hosting me for Christmas Day & New Year's Eve on the 30th floor of The Barbican in unbelievable style (eg Michel Roux Jr Beef Wellington; a Christmas gift from Creed Fragrances etc), my first Christmas in London could not have been better and the strong winds on New Year's blew away the smoke and gave us an perfect view of London's New Year fireworks.

Dorchester Collection Continue to Be Difficult to Beat

On Christmas morning I ate a Dorchester hotel breakfast in my Barbican place opening sensational Christmas gifts from 45 Park Lane. Ruinart champagne, a spa candle, an 'It's a Wonderful Life' decoration from their Christmas tree etc. Pure class.

Chef Tom Booton's Sunday lunches in 'The Grill by Tom Booton' are sensational & they recently served me a 'SF Martini', created by The Lana, Dorchester Collection's `Dubai hotel.

Orthodox Christmas in Shrewsbury

Although I was unable to spend 25 December with mum, we did spend the Gregorian Christmas together. We pulled crackers from Claridge's & The Dorchester and video called her granddaughter in Moscow.

The Year of the Snake

I celebrated Chinese New Year at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge. Adored my 'free' 'Wood Snake' cocktail and my chocolate coated kumquat & oolong tea dessert was exquisite.

Thanks to Martine at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge I now have one of the only teddy bears reflecting the new name of that Four Seasons.

Hope the photos below convince you it was a '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) Christmas and New Year. Must also mention 'free' Moet pink champagne, & chocolates, at breakfast at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair & the beautiful emails from their GM. Pan Pacific, London continue to provide 'free' Laurent Perrier champagne too.

I meet Chef Nobu this weekend. Another dream comes true. Just sad I have not heard from the mother of my godson over Christmas or New Year but 'phone calls with my friend in New York keep me cheerful.

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Home but the Celebrations Continue - London & Shrewsbury - November/ December 2024

21/1/2025

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My 'Epic Trip' to mark 10 years of this blog was so unbelievable it has taken some time to recover from and hence my silence since my 15 posts about it.

ABar Rooftop at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair

Shortly after returning to London the rooftop at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair opened and I had to visit it. It is a beautiful space and the high quality of the furniture (& the view) took my breath away.

There was Moet champagne, a delicious cake topped with raspberries and a card that almost made me cry. Various staff (including GM Susanne) came to say hello. What an experience.

A Gift at Breakfast at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park

Also have to thank Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park for the framed collage of photos of various special moments at Mandarin Oriental in London & Bangkok.

My Friends are the Best

A Sunday lunch at Hawksmoor, Seven Dials, & breakfast at Firmdale's Covent Garden Hotel, let me meet friends from Dubai & Qatar again.

Elizabeth Solaru's 'The LUXPreneur'

I read the inscription in the book Elizabeth sent me at Raffles, London at The OWO. Once again, I was near tears.

After breakfast I released my flower from my 'Ganesha Ceremony' at Four Seasons, Chiang Mai on The Thames.

Grant Thornton's Banking and Capital Markets Conference

I attended a Grant Thornton banking conference shortly after my return and it was an excellent way to get up to speed with various current topics in banking.

A Pre-Christmas Visit to Shrewsbury to See Mum

I squeezed in a pre-Christmas visit to see mum and was so pleased to find how well she had been looked after while I was in Thailand and the Middle East.

My '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) experiences continued after my return to the UK. Hope people enjoy the photos below. I am still wearing my blessings bracelet from the Four Seasons Tented Camp in The Golden Triangle.

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Qatar Airways - Flight From Doha to London in Qsuites - November 2024

1/1/2025

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I wholeheartedly recommend the Qatar Airways Qsuites product, with no reservations.

Two portions of Baeri caviar, Taittinger rose champagne & the 'Widow Clicquot' movie. One of my best flights for years and the perfect way to end an 'Epic Trip'.

The Qatar Airways Qsuites product rates an '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score. My flight could not have been better.

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Four Seasons, Doha - The 'Epic Trip' Had To End Here - Doha, Qatar - November 2024

1/1/2025

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The 'Epic 6 Week Trip'

After 6 flights & 5 countries the 14th, and last, hotel on the 'Epic Trip' had to be Four Seasons, Doha.

This was the 7th Four Seasons on the trip & visiting Four Seasons Resort & Residences at The Pearl Qatar, on my last full day, took the total of Four Seasons visited to 8.

A Red Carpet Welcome & A Tranquil Suite

A friendly and cheerful red carpet welcome was waiting for me.

The suite I had been allocated had incredible views of the beach & Nobu, Doha and was in beautiful pale colours & had a huge shower.

I loved the mock up of 'FS Doha News' but was surprised there was no champagne. There was a bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne when I stayed in 2022.

Friday Brunch in Curiosa by Jean-Georges

My trip was perfectly timed with Sunday brunch in Bangkok, Saturday brunch in Dubai and now Friday brunch in Doha.

My welcome drink at 'Curiosa by Jean-Georges' was a 'Lychee Passion Martini' (vodka, orange liqueur & Veuve Clicquot champagne) with & gummy bears.

The friends I met for brunch are some of the best friends I have in the world, the live music was brilliant and the food excellent. Brunch could not have been any better.

The Library Lounge & The 'Epic Trip Martini Challenge'

The black pepper & olive oil gin martini entered was the antithesis of what I like and so I decided it was ineligible for the challenge. However, sitting at the bar with one of my best friends was a dream come true.

The Pool Where Frozen Grapes Were Served And Your Sunglasses Cleaned

My lunches by the pool were delicious, & I appreciated The Weekend Financial Times & Wall Street Journal being printed off for me, but some of the touches that made this pool special have been lost over the years.

Nobu, Doha & Four Seasons Resort & Residences at The Pearl Qatar

I had a bit of a disaster with my transport to Nobu, Doha but this was more than made up for PR Director Clara's tour of Four Seasons Resort & Residences at The Pearl Qatar.

Stunning residences and restaurants I want to try. Thanks to GM Mehdi for arranging this at short notice and GM Shadi at Four Seasons, Doha for arranging a Series 7 BMW.

Elements Reopened For My Last Day: Memories of My Almost 10 Years Living & Working in Doha

I was thrilled 'Elements' reopened for breakfast on my last morning. Have so many happy memories made in that room.

Also loved having coffee with one of my former Qatari colleagues from the QFC Regulatory Authority.

Four Seasons, Doha has a very special place in my heart but the lack of a bottle of champagne at my last hotel on my 'Epic Trip' is inexcusable. This, combined with the reduction in the pool service. has to rate a '7 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score. Tips: get transport for Nobu, Doha from the front of the hotel & do not expect your suite access card to open gates by the water.

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Mandarin Oriental, Doha - Better Than Perfect - Doha, Qatar - November 2024

1/1/2025

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The Best Airport Welcome

No driver with a board to greet me , when I stay at Mandarin Oriental, Doha. Instead Abdollah & Arina were waiting for me. A perfect Qatari & Russian welcome. My niece in Russia had been messaging earlier that day about snow in Moscow and so I was so thrilled by this.

In the Bentley Abdollah offered me chocolate covered dates from Qinwan. These are the best dates I have ever tried.

An Arrival At Mandarin Oriental, Doha That Included Arabic Coffee, A Falcon & A 'We Are Fans of Si Frew' Banner

Being greeted by GM Thomas and his team was so special and the Arabic coffee, falcon and personalised banner was almost overwhelming. An indication of how 'better than perfect' my second stay at Mandarin Oriental, Doha was going to be.

My Vast Stunning Suite With Media Room, Study, Guest Bathroom, Balcony & Kitchen

Hope my photos do some justice to my magnificent suite and all the thoughtful gifts left in it. These included a bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne, balloons for 10 years of luxury travelblog www.sifrew.com, MoMo, a very regal new Qatari member of 'the gang' & framed photos of my mother by my bed.

A Martini With GM Thomas; Coffee With My Former QFC Regulator Authority Colleagues & Lunch at Raffles, Doha With The GM of Arab Jordan Investment Bank (Qatar) LLC

My respect for GM Thomas grows even more each time we meet. He is the sort of hotel professional I adore. Meeting my former QFC Regulatory Authority colleagues, two of who I also worked with in Bermuda, brought back so many happy memories and I loved lunch with Khaled, even if the food at Raffles, Doha was disappointing.

Perfect Martinis; Liang's Soup Dumplings; IZU & A Dim Sum Class

Head Barternder Jurgen makes a perfect martini. Liang's soup dumplings still blow my mind. The rich flavours of my chicken in IZU were mouthwateringly good & I would highly recommend the dim sum class I took. All the food at Mandarin Oriental, Doha is on another level.

Mandarin Oriental, Doha really is better than perfect and my stay must rate an '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score, without any doubt. My butler Arina saw to this.

The pool area has improved since my 2022 stay, with new smart pool furniture. My suite's view of Barahat Msheireb could not have been more apt, given the referendum taking place during my visit. This meant I got a message from Simon Casson, now CEO of Corinthia Hotels, during me stay Tips: eat in the less franetic upstairs at IZU & take the dim sum class, even if you cannot cook.

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Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach - A 'First Customer' Returns Again & Another Four Seasons That Keeps Getting Better - Dubai, the UAE - November 2024

31/12/2024

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A 'First Customer' Returns

Impossible to visit Dubai without returning to Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach. It is another Four Seasons I stayed at before it was open to the public. In fact, their alcohol licence had not been issued when I first stayed.

The Maybach; A 'Red Carpet' Welcome; Jeff Leatham's Floral Installation & Veuve Clicquot Champagne

Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach sent their Maybach to collect me from The Lana, Dubai and there was a red carpet welcome waiting for me.

I was thrilled to be able to see Jeff Leatham's 'A Legacy in Bloom' to celebrate 10 years since this Four Seasons opened. I adore his work at the Four Seasons George V in Paris.

Francesco (Director of Rooms) and I had not met before but he is such a joy to chat with. After a few glasses of Veuve Clicquot champagne, my name was embroidered on my napkin, it was time to go and I was then overwhelmed by gifts (eg a Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach baseball cap with my 'SGF' initials on the side; the Four Seasons coffee table book inscribed with beautiful comments from staff; the updated Zaki soft toy falcon etc).

Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach keeps getting better & my visit must rate an '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score. I was on 'cloud nine' on the Maybach journey back to The Lana, Dubai. So proud to be the ''First Customer' of such an impressive hotel.

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The Lana, Dubai - Dorchester Collection Perfection In The Middle East - Dubai, the UAE - November 2024

30/12/2024

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Rewatching 'White Lotus' on flydubai

With Four Seasons promoting Seasons 3 of 'White Lotus', & conversations I overheard at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River that could be part of the script, I had to rewatch 'White Lotus' on the short & easy Business Class flight with flydubai.

Rolls-Royce Phantom With The Driver With White Gloves

As soon I stepped inside the vast Rolls-Royce Phantom I knew it was going to be a very special stay.

A GM Welcome At A Busy Hotel

The art deco Lana, Dubai building is reminiscent of the 45 Park Lane building and GM Richard was waiting outside to greet me, along with star Executive Housekeeper Carol.

A Suite With A Breathtaking View Of Dubai & A Media Room

My suite was so beautiful, refined and classy I almost cried. There was Pol Roger champagne on ice, an art deco chocolate camel and a chocolate model of the hotel, clothes for Issy, a cake to mark 10 years of luxury travelblog www.sifrew.com and my initials on the pillow.

The 'SF Martini' On The Cocktail List At 'Bitter Honey'

Head Bartender Lionel entered The Lana, Dubai in the 'Epic Trip Martini Challenge' with the 'SF Martini' on the 'Bitter Honey' cocktail list. It is made with a vermouth he spent a month perfecting.

This entry came a close second to Four Seasons, Amman making a martini in a moving vehicle and just ahead of Four Seasons Bangkok recreating 'BKK Social Club' in my suite on the 'Last Day of Buddhist Lent'.

The 'SF Martini' will stay on the 'Bitter Honey' cocktail list if people keep ordering it. It tastes sublime & so I am hopeful it will.

'Jara' by Martin Berasategui & Jason Atherton's 'City Social' Brunch at The Grosvenor House

I ate Basque food on the 18th floor of the hotel on my first night. The anchovies and the croquettes from Martin Berasategui were moreishly delicious.

On the Saturday I met friends for brunch. Saturday brunch is an institution in Dubai and Jason Atherton's one at 'City Social' did not disappoint. From the magician to the perfectly cooked steaks, it was flawless. My friends were the best company too.

All Happiness Depends On A Leisurely Breakfast

The food at my breakfasts at The Lana, Dubai was all sublime but meeting Charlie Thompson, from my Shrewsbury School days, again was the highlight. He is based in Hong Kong but was in Dubai for work. I was so lucky to get spend time with him again.

The Lana, Dubai must rate an '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score. My only criticism is the design of the rooftop infinity pool. The steps into it should be more gradual. The final large step makes it treacherous to take your 'phone, or a drink, into the pool. Tips:- the sunbeds at the pool are very close together. Ask to use the cabanas and order an 'SF Martini' at 'Bitter Honey' bar.

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W Hotel, Doha - Never Boring! - Doha, Qatar - October/ November 2024

30/12/2024

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My Halloween night stay at W Hotel, Doha, between Bahrain & Dubai, surprised even me.

The 'Epic Trip' Teddy Bear Theme

After an astonishing welcome, the W Hotel, Doha staff had taken the Teddy Bear Theme of the 'Epic Trip' to another level in my suite.

The soft toys were sown onto the robe, slippers and baseball cap. I will wear the latter to New Year's Eve on the 30th floor of The Barbican tomorrow evening.

Halloween Night in Coya, Doha

I have eaten in Coya, Mayfair but I think my Peru inspired food on Halloween night in Doha was actually better.

A Breakfast Surprise

I left breakfast with shakshouka on my shirt only to bump into Brydon Nelson from Social Media. He is a fellow Doha legend and it was such a nice surprise to meet him.

I am sure the photos below will justify W Hotel, Doha's '6 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score. It is a tribute to the W Hotel, Doha staff and their unbelievable work (eg the towel art; the panda attached to my suite key etc) that a trendy/ fun, rather than uber luxury, hotel achieved such a high score.

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Four Seasons, Bahrain Bay - A 'First Customer' Returns & This Four Seasons Has Got Even Better! - Manama, Bahrain - October 2024

28/12/2024

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A 'First Customer' Returns!

It was 2016 when I last visited Four Seasons, Bahrain Bay. I stayed at this hotel before it opened to the public and am officially their 'First Customer'. This Four Seasons, therefore, had to be part of the 'Epic Trip'.

I have to mention Greg Pickle, Four Seasons, Bahrain Bay's first GM. A true gentlemen who has been taken from us too soon.

The Disappointing Qatar Airways First Class Lounge in Doha

I wanted a perfect start to my return and so booked Qatar Airways First Class, to enable me to drink Krug champagne in their First Class Lounge in Doha.

The lounge is on an impressive scale, see my photo of the 'waterfall', but they no longer offer premium champagnes, 'phone charging points are inconveniently placed and the food is only OK.

It did not help that I was hassled by 'phone calls to give up seat 1A while in the lounge. On the plane it turned out the seat behind me was empty, so there was no good reason for Qatar Airways to ask me to change seats.

A Welcome Could Not Have Been Better

I thought a Bentley might collect me but a beautiful Rolls-Royce was waiting. I spent the short journey watching shooting stars on the Rolls-Royce's ceiling.

Krug Champagne In My Suite

After my moans about the Qatar Airways First Class Lounge in Doha, I was overjoyed to find Krug champagne in my Four Seasons suite in Bahrain.

Memorable Breakfasts From Heaven

Meeting Muslem again made my first breakfast; my room service Bahraini breakfast was made even better by the card that came with it and I was near tears at my final breakfast being presented with Gracy, handmade by Gracy. It was another hotel where I am far from a regular guest.

A Pool With No Children And Meeting Ash & Mel

The 'Adult Only' pool could be deeper but is a perfect oasis for relaxation. Also loved meeting Ash & Mel in that pool.

Fabio & 'CUT Bahrain' By Wolfgang Puck

The steaks at 'CUT Bahrain' by Wolfgang Puck were sensational and the views of Manama mesmerising. Cannot say enough good things about that bar & restaurant. Ate there twice & drank in the bar on all three evenings.

My latest camel soft toy had to be named after Fabio, the Manager of 'CUT Bahrain' who lent me a Wolfgang Puck champagne glass to drink my Krug from 'proper glass' in my suite.

Four Seasons, Bahrain Bay must rate an '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score. The lack of a Hermes bedspread in my suite, & my food at Re Asian Cuisine being smothered in sauces, almost lost 'a teddy' but the Rolls-Royce & Krug champagne meant a perfect score.

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The Sukhothai, Bangkok - The Perfect End to the Thailand Leg of My 'Epic Trip' - Bangkok, Thailand - October 2024

28/12/2024

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Hope everyone had as good a Christmas as me. My first London Christmas could not have been better. I am so grateful to Graham, Clare & family for including me in their special day and their perfect gifts. Also must thank 45 Park Lane for their generous & unique gifts and The Dorchester for my breakfast in The Barbican on Christmas Day.

The Legendary Sukhothai, Bangkok

The Sukhothai, Bangkok Sunday brunch had to end the Thailand part of my 'Epic Trip' and I also wanted to, finally, swim in their pool. I, therefore, booked a two night stay and was so glad I did.

My Suite with a Stunning Bathroom/ Dressing Room & Japanese Toilet in the Guest Bathroom

I had been allocated one of the hotel's recently refurbished suites. Think you will agree, from my photo, that the bathroom/ dressing room is impressive.

Aspects of The Sukhothai, Bangkok remind me of The Imperial Hotel in Tokyo, which is a very good thing.

Khun Pack, A Pink Weekend Financial Times & The Sukhothai, Bangkok Pool

Khun Pack brought me a pink paper copy of The Weekend Financial Times in the pool. The Sukhothai, Bangkok has another green Thai swimming pool.

The Famous Sukhothai, Bangkok Sunday Brunch

I already devoted a post to The Sukhothai, Bangkok Sunday brunch in 2018 and think the quality of the food may have got even better, if that was possible.

The live band & singer were fabulous & there were even fellow guests who were also at Amanda Hyndman's leaving party at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park.

Leaving is Difficult But 'Tippy Saved The Day'

I arrived very late & left early. Packing at 4am was not my best idea. Tippy had a card from the staff for me and checked my suite and so prevented me leaving some of my Japanese teddy bears that have so many memories attached to them. A true Bangkok heroine.

Qatar Airways Business Class. No Qsuites - Despite Booking and Rebooking

I booked a Qatar Airways plane with Qsuites and, when that plane was changed, rebooked and paid more fees for a plane with Qsuites, only for that plane to be changed again. Despite these irritations, the lounge and congee on the plane were good.

The Sunday brunch, & my recently refurbished suite, at The Sukhothai, Bangkok would have rated '6 teddies' but Tippy's actions rates a '7 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score. She prevented me leaving Igor & Paula, from Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo & Four Seasons, Tokyo at Marunouchi, behind. Tip: talk to Chef Frederic at The Sukhothai, Bangkok Sunday brunch.

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Four Seasons Tented Camp - Breakfast With Elephants & Blessings From Buddhist Monks - More Dreams Come True - The Golden Triangle, Thailand - October 2024

16/12/2024

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A Warning

Must start this post with a caveat that I am far from the usual guest of the Four Seasons Tented Camp in The Golden Triangle. It is really aimed at treking/ outdoor people with a large budget.

It is, therefore, even more astonishing that I had a dream stay.

A Dramatic Arrival

You arrive by fast boat and I was thrilled to be feeding elephants before I knew what was happening.

My Blessing Bracelet

There was a blessings ceremony with Four Seasons staff when I first arrived and I arranged for a second ceremony, with a Buddhist monk, later in my stay. I am still wearing the threads from all this and it is a memento that makes me feel very proud.

Breakfast With Rescued Elephants

It was enchanting to feed elephants at breakfast each morning. Watching the calfs scratch themselves again trees is an image I will never forget.

Sunset Cocktails With Camp Manager Poy

There were sunset cocktails with Camp Manager Poy in a private area with views of Myanmar & Laos. Loved talking to her about Tokyo etc

Restaurant & Bar Director Filippo & Sticky Rice With Black Truffles

I had high expectations of the food & drink at The Tented Camp and the food on the second & third evening was legendary. Wonder if I will ever eat sticky rice with black truffles again.

Restaurant & Bar Director Filippo, like Camp Manager Poy, helped to make my stay a true dream. Mr Sharp's 'Golden Rule' is very much alive and well at The Tented Camp.

A Royal Tree Planted In My Honour

Still find it unbelievable we planted a tree, associated with the Thai Royal Family, in my honour that I will be emailed updates about,

The Four Seasons Tented Camp in The Golden Triangle rates a '7 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score. A Four Seasons Resort where food, drink, massages etc are included might have rated '8 teddies' but the cumbersome double zips in my 'tent' mean '8 teddies' score cannot be awarded. Tip: if you have difficulties with anything, say something (eg I did not want to leave by boat & so a car was arranged).

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Four Seasons, Chiang Mai - Where It All Started! Chiang Mai, Thailand - October 2024

14/12/2024

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I wrote the first post of this blog at Four Seasons, Chiang Mai, when Michael Branham was GM. When I found out Sean Mosher would be the GM for my second stay, I was overjoyed. He ensured I had an unbelievable time at Four Seasons, Sayan in Bali 10 years ago.

A Welcome Like No Other: Magical Four Seasons, Chiang Mai

A bouquet of exotic flowers, water buffalo and '10 Years' written in flower petals. I had forgotten quite how remarkable Four Seasons, Chiang Mai is.

The Same Villa With Its Stunning Private Pool and Sunset Cocktails With Sean & His Management Team

The numerous welcome gifts at my villa were overwhelming & I quickly had to join Sean & his management of Anthony (the Resort Manager) and Ashok (Director of Rooms) for sunset cocktails.

We had such fun talking about hotels, Chef Gaggan Anand etc. Sean ended saying he had never met a customer with so many fascination hotel stories and the feeling of admiration was mutual.

Chef Alvin Is A Genius & Chef Naruchit's Thai Food Exquisite

All the food I ate at Four Seasons, Chiang Mai was first class. From breakfast on the terrace, to Chef Alvin making my favourite dish of crispy pork with cauliflower, to his unbelievable steak and recreating my breakfast of 10 years ago at my Pool Villa. He richly deserved his promotion after my stay.

The Thai dinner Chef Naruchit prepared for me was unbelievable. I have never eaten sticky rice with mango like it.

A Spiritual Ganesha Ceremony

On my second/ Last evening I was part of a 'Ganesha Ceremony' that is being developed for guests. Ganesha is lord of new beginnings and can remove obstacles. The ceremony involves chanting, bells & candles. I was given a flower that I eventually released onto the Thames in London. Hope it helps the people I prayed for.

Four Seasons, Chiang Mai must rate an '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score. There is no way my stay could have been any better. It was perfect and I treasure Issy's new outfits. The farmers were even part of my goodbye & the main pools look better green. Tips: stay for longer than two nights and use the outside shower.

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Capella, Bangkok: Cote by Mauro Colagreco - A Legendary Meal - Bangkok, Thailand - October 2024

9/12/2024

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Chef Mauro Colagreco has a restaurant at Raffles, London at The OWO and the meal of his I had at the Capella, Bangkok blew my mind.

It was a meal I will never forget and I cannot recommend his food strongly enough.

My dinner at Cote by Mauro Colagreco in Bangkok rates a '7 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score. Tip: go with the menu Manager Gwen suggests and make sure you chat with this great guy.

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Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, Impressive Scale, A Foodie Paradise, 'BKK Social Club' & Flawless Service - Bangkok, Thailand - October 2024

9/12/2024

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When I visited Bangkok in 2018 I met with GM Lubosh to discuss the plans for the new Four Seasons, Bangkok, this hotel, therefore, had to be part of my 'Epic Trip'.

My Spectacular Welcome

You will see from the photos that my welcome could not have been more impressive. GM Lubosh was on a well deserved vacation with his family but Manager Simon handled it all perfectly and there was even a 'cut out' of the GM for the photos.

Walking through the hotel the monumental scale of it all took my breath away.

The End of Buddhist Lent, 'BKK Social Club' & The 'Epic Trip Martini Challenge'

All the bars in Thailand were closed for The End of Buddhist Lent on the day I arrived but 'BKK Social Club' was recreated in my spectacular suite to make me a perfect martini. Must thank Bar Manager Ferdia, and Director of Guest Experience Killian, for all they did to arrange this.

'BKK Social Club' & 'Four Seasons, Bangkok' came a close third in the 'Epic Trip Martini Challenge' for the effort this took.

Celebrating 10 Years of www.sifrew.com with 'Palmier by Guillaume Galliot', 'Yu Ting Yuan' & Champagne at The Pool

My Guest Experience person was named Dream and she certainly lived up to her name. She made arrangements just as easy/ smooth as the butlers at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok.

The food at Four Seasons, Bangkok could not have been better. From the super fresh scallops at 'Palmier' that were exquisite with just lemon juice, to the best balanced hot & sour soup I have ever eaten from Chef Tommy Cheung & caviar on my dim sum and fresh from the oven egg pizzas at breakfast with the most delicious fresh melon juice I have tasted. Everything was sublime.

Four Seasons, Bangkok also rates an unprecedented '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score. More handrails on stairs is the only area that needs any improvement. All this is even more impressive for a hotel still so new. Sean being part of my leaving photos was the icing on a perfect cake. Tip: you must have a cocktail in the award winning 'BKK Social Club' .

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SO/ Bangkok & Christian Lacroix, A Very Special Stay - Bangkok, Thailand - October 2024

9/12/2024

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Christian Lacroix dressed Greta was uniquely created for me by SO/ Bangkok (their staff wear Christian Lacroix uniforms), when I lived in Bangkok for a few months after Cayman Islands, & the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok has a special place in my heart.

The replacement headdress The Dorchester created for Greta needed a more durable travel version and so SO/ Bangkok had to be part of my 'Epic Trip'.

Awesome Breakfasts, Panoramic Views & Brilliant Staff

Despite the 9th floor reception and in-door bar being closed for refurbishment, I had an unbelievable stay. Please note it is a completely separate hotel to the Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit.

Delicious breakfasts with stunning views of Lumpini Park, a spectacular 10th floor infinity pool & staff that were a joy to interact with.

Christian Lacroix Greta's New Headdress, My Initials on my Pillow Cases & the Financial Times

Adore Greta's new silk roses headdress, her new pink 'friend' had to be named Esther, staff were diligent printing off the Financial Times for me each day and even the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok did not embroider my initials on my pillow cases.

I am sure the photos below will justify SO/ Bangkok's '6 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score, despite their 9th floor being closed. My Tips: have a drink in the open-air rooftop bar on the 29th floor, if only to watch the horrendous Bangkok traffic, & talk to SO relationship managers Esther, Teddy, Garfield etc

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Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, a Legendary Hotel Gets Even Better. The Captain Andersen Suite; Veuve Clicquot Champagne; Gaggan's New Venue; Peninsula Champagne with the MD of Peninsula, Bangkok & Lunch with Kenny Ng - Bangkok, Thailand - October 2024

1/12/2024

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Etihad Airways Business Class

I flew from Amman, Jordan to Bangkok in Etihad Airways Business Class via Abu Dhabi.

While I cannot say enough good things about the new Business Class Lounge in Abu Dhabi, the Business Class product in the air was disappointing.

A large chunk of plastic in my breakfast on the first flight, premixed cocktails on the second flight were too sweet; poor choice of film/ TV programmes and Armani/ Casa pillows & blankets had an unpleasantly synthetic feel. The Qatar Airways Qsuite product is far superior.

Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. A Bangkok Legend & One of the World's Best Hotels

From my greeting at the airport, to my white liveried driver & the lemongrass scented cold towels in the Series 7 BMW, I quickly remembered why I love & admire this historic hotel so much.

The Elegant Captain Andersen Suite

I spent my 5 night stay in The Captain Andersen Suite. Hans Niels Andersen created the building that opened as the Oriental Hotel in 1887.

The refurbishment of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok meant even the guest bathroom in my suite had a Toto Japanese toilet. The carpet in the bedroom of suite evidenced the extraordinary quality of the materials used in the refurbishment. My only issue was most of one wall in the bedroom being a mirror but maybe it will encourage me to drop some weight.

An Iconic Pool

The hotel's green & gold pool is one of my favourite hotel pools. Jeffrey, who leads the pool staff team, came to hold my hand on my first morning. I felt emotional and all this confirmed to me that this is a remarkable hotel and I am far from an ordinary customer.

Mayuree, Director of Guest Relations, & I have had so many poignant conversations by that pool over the last 10 years.

An Astonishing Stay

From my one-on-one meeting with GM Anthony; to witnessing Her Majesty the Queen of Thailand visiting Her Majesty the Queen of Malaysia at the hotel; to my fascinating chat with Florian, Director of Rooms; to Chef Gaggan Anand's mind-blowing 22 course immersive food, light & sound show; to fireworks during my dinner at 'Blue by Alain Ducasse' in 'Icon Siam'; to meeting charming Peninsula, Bangkok MD Masahisa; to spending time with Sean from Lotus Arts de Vivre in The Bamboo Bar; to Kenny Ng taking me out to lunch, there were too many unbelievable highs on this stay.

With us losing two more guys from my year at Shrewsbury School to heart attacks this year, I was glad to meet with Charlie Thomson in Dubai and help Rob Clover with his move to Qatar too on my 'Epic Trip'.

I am sure the photos below will evidence why Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok is one of the best hotels in the world and also convince you it rates another unprecedented '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score, despite some MO profile issues. My post about my 2018 stay explained I did not want Perrier water in my suite or cumbersome cribs. Perrier water was also an issue during my Chinese New Year stay at the Hong Kong Mandarin Oriental & became a point of humour during my stay at the Mandarin Oriental Ritz in Madrid. Providing Veuve Clicquot champagne & tubes of bath products that can be taken away mitigated these issues. Tips: order a room service breakfast during your stay. Treasure my 'RS MOBKK' gift Chao; use the hotel's drivers & asked the butler service to repair items & bubble wrap items for travel. I guarantee you will be impressed.

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Four Seasons, Amman - An 'Epic Trip' Could Not Have Had a Better Start - Amman, Jordan - October 2024

17/11/2024

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The Ongoing Iran-Israel Conflict

I arrived in Jordan the day after Iran launched waves of ballistic missiles at targets in Israel & flew in Business Class with Royal Jordanian.

I have never seen so many people in a Business Class cabin stare intently at the inflight map. Shortly before we entered Israel/ Lebanon's airspace our plane diverted to fly via Syria.

An Unbelievable Early Morning Arrival

Jordanian Immigration staff were brilliantly cheerful & welcoming, despite the ludicrously early hour.

Ibrahim (Beverage Manager) was waiting at the airport to greet me & explained Four Seasons, Amman was entering the 'Epic Trip Martini Challenge' by making me a martini on the journey from the airport to the hotel.

Winning The 'Epic Trip Martini Challenge'

Four Seasons, Amman had to win this challenge, with the weeks of practice Ibrahim had devoted to preparing martinis in a moving vehicle and the cheese stuffed olives.

The Lana, part of Dorchester Collection, in Dubai came second with the impeccable 'SF Martini' on the 'Bitter Honey' cocktail list

& Four Seasons at Chao Phraya River a close third recreating 'BKK Social Club' in my suite on the day Buddhist Lent ended.

A Perfect Welcome

Four Seasons is all about experiences and Four Seasons. Amman knocked it out of the ballpark that morning. From Irahim's perfect martini in a moving Mercedes transit; to Mustafa (from Guest Experience) waiting to greet me outside the hotel & the enthusiastic welcome from the Four Seasons Security Team.

The Stunning Four Seasons, Amman Refurbishment

I last stayed at Four Seasons, Amman 16 years ago. My visit to Jordan rates 5 cover photos it was so flawless. I was so glad I was persuaded to revisit Petra.

From the impressive refurbishment of Four Seasons, Amman; to the incredible professionalism of all its staff; to GM Nick arranging a bagpipe player to honour my father & Hani Al-Qadi presenting me with his father's book, a stay could not have been any better or more memorable.

More Tender Steak Than The Alain Ducasse Margaret River Wagyu in Bangkok

All my food in Amman was sublime. It was an honour to meet Chef Toshikazu Kato from Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva, even if some of his food was too spicy for me; my steak frites in 'La Capitale' was insanely good, Ibrahim (IQ) even let me eat it by the pool for a second time; my mansaf (tender lamb with rice & yogurt) in the garden at 'Sufra' was mouth-wateringly good & I got to drink Lebanese water. I do all I can to support Lebanon.

Hope the photos below convince you Four Seasons, Amman & Jordan rate an '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) score. From the chocolate teddy bear in my suite being being guilded during me stay; to my TWA Hotel Bag being cleaned, & the zip fixed that broke on the day I bought it; to arriving back from Petra to find a chocolate model of The Treasury Building & my VVVIP departure from the Queen Alia International Airport, everything was beyond belief.

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Preparing for an 'Epic Trip' - Shrewsbury & London - September 2024

30/9/2024

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It is now 10 years since this blog started at Four Seasons, Chiang Mai. To mark/ celebrate this a 6 week 'Epic Trip' to the Middle & Far East starts on Wednesday evening.

This trip now includes 5 countries and 14 luxury hotels (7 of which are Four Seasons).

Memorable Amman, Jordan

I will fly Business Class with Royal Jordanian and stay at Four Seasons, Amman for a second time to see its stunning refurbishment and meet with the Chairman of Arab Jordan Investment Bank at their Head Office. Still deciding whether to visit Petra again.

While staying at Four Seasons, Amman I shall eat food from Chef Toshikazu Kato from Four Seasons, Geneva.

Unbelievable Thailand

In Thailand I will stay at the legendary Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok; the So, Bangkok (formerly the Sofitel So) who created Christian Lacroix clad Greta; the new Four Seasons, Bangkok; the iconic Four Seasons, Chiang Mai where Sean is GM. We met at Four Seasons, Sayan in Bali 10 years ago; the 'dream come true' Four Seasons Tented Camp in the Golden Triangle; and the renowned Sukhothai Bangkok.

Even simple Thai food is extraordinary but I will eat Chef Gaggan Anand's food again, as well as Chef Alain Ducasse's cuisine in Icon Siam and Chef Mauro Colagreco's dishes at the Capella, Bangkok.

The 'First Customer' of Four Seasons, Bahrain Bay

I will fly Qatar Airways First Class to stay at Four Seasons, Bahrain Bay again and eat Chef Wolfgang Puck food at 'CUT'.

Thursday Evening Drinks at Four Seasons, Doha

On Thursday 31 October I will be part of 'After Work Drinks' at Four Seasons, Doha. I will be staying at The W Hotel Doha that evening.

Superlative Dubai

In Dubai I will stay at The Lana, Dorchester Collections new hotel in the UAE. While in Dubai I will have Saturday brunch at Chef Jason Atherton's 'City Social' with my best friend in Dubai.

While in Dubai I will visit Four Seasons Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, I was also the 'First Customer' of this Four Seasons and visit Atlantis The Royal, Dubai.

Unbeatable Doha

My trip will culminate with stays at flawless Mandarin Oriental, Doha, now Thomas is GM, and unparalleled Four Seasons, Doha.

On Friday 8 November I will be part of a brunch at Four Seasons, Doha with some of my closest friends in Qatar. I will then fly home to the UK in Qatar Airways QSuites.

A Mum I Love Too Much

Before I embark on this 'Epic Trip' I spent a long weekend in Shrewsbury, confirming everything was in place to ensure mum is well looked after while I am away.

All is in place for a '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) 'Epic 6 Week Trip'.

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Mum & The Shrewsbury Flower Show - Shrewsbury/ London - August 2024

31/8/2024

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Si Frew The Bank Director

August 2024 was the month when I decided to look for banking work again. The CEO of The Arab Bankers' Association has been very kind helping me try to find a role in one of the Middle Eastern banks in London, that still allows me to spend time in Shrewsbury seeing mum.

I also really enjoy my regular meetings with the CEO of Jordan International Bank Plc & am having one of my periodic meetings with Grant Thornton next week.

The 2024 Shrewsbury Flower Show

My proudest moment of the month was taking mum around the main flower tent at The 2024 Shrewsbury Flower Show. We had a coffee in the Members' Tent first and mum's friends were overjoyed to see her looking so relaxed & well.

Bellamy's, Mayfair; The Bear at Hodnet; The Golden Cross; 45 Park Lane; Cafe Laperouse at Raffles, London at The OWO; Pan Pacific, London & Mei Ume at Four Seasons at Ten Trinity Square

I ate some exceptional food in August. From a restaurant the late Queen ate at more than once; to unbelievably succulent lamb at The Bear at Hodnet; to astonishingly tender roast beef at The Golden Cross; to spicy tuna tartare cones at 45 Park Lane; to divine chicken with morels outside at Cafe Laperouse at Raffles, London at The OWO; to the outlandishly brilliant weekend breakfast at Pan Pacific, London; to soup dumpling heaven at Mei Ume at Four Seasons.

Soho House in the Former BBC Building

My brilliant hotel friend got me access to the rooftop pool at White City House. We also had lunch there.

One of my banking friends has been waiting 8 months to join Soho House but I am not sure it is his sort of place.

Am I Real? Do I Lack Empathy?

I suffered more personal attacks from people I thought were friends, & family, in August. Felt sad Blocking these two people but I have to protect myself and maintain the strength to help & support mum. My friends have assured me, while I am far from perfect, these attacks seem to be more these two guys projecting their own flaws & anger on me.

My time with mum in August, the beautiful messages of support from my fabulous friends & the extraordinary food I got to try, made it an '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) month. Hope you all enjoy too many photos of it all below.

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A New UK Government & a 'Fresh Start' - London - July 2024

1/8/2024

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A Labour UK Government

It may seem odd for a luxury travel blog to welcome a Labour Government but, with new faces and enthusiasm to make things better, I am optimistic. It helps that I know Secretary of State for Health & Social Care Wes Streeting & am impressed by him.

The Ivy Private Members' Club

Shortly after the election, I had dinner at The Ivy Private Members' Club with my friend who worked for Tony Blair, when he was in 10 Downing Street, again.

A Champagne Breakfast at Pan Pacific. London

Pan Pacific, London keep surprising me, in a good way. I went there without booking & was still welcomed by name and given 'free' champagne. The quality of their weekend buffet breakfast is astonishing.

A Four Seasons at Park Lane's Bastille Day

The Sunday of Bastille Day was spent at Four Seasons at Park Lane drinking Moet champagne and eating BBQ.

Afternoon Tea, & The 'Spy Bar', at Raffles, London at The OWO

You may not just recognise me in my photo at afternoon tea at Raffles, London at The OWO.

That afternoon tea, with the mother of my talented godson, was incredible. The edible punnet of strawberries & cream was a work of art & delicious too. The Hotel MD, Hotel Manager & Director of Wines all came to chat with us.

We ended a memorable afternoon/ evening in the hotel's '007 Spy Bar', where Matteo, who I knew from The Dorchester, made me a perfect martini.

Rosewood in London

I am so excited about The Chancery Rosewood opening in 2025 and proud to know Michael Bonsor, who will be their MD.

In July I tried the Cantonese breakfast in The Crystal Room at Rosewood, London. The congee with honey roasted pork was mouth-wateringly good but the dim sum unimpressive and the lack of Chiu Chow chilli oil dip rather a shame. Love that dip at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park, the Peninsula, London etc

'Mooncakes' from Peninsula, London

After another sensational breakfast at Peninsula, London, on the day of their MD's birthday, the Hotel Manager presented me with some non-traditional toffee & fudge brownie 'mooncakes'. I almost cried again.

Shrewsbury's dreadful MP not getting re-elected, alone, made it a '7 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) month. However, I was sad that Simon Baynes did not win his seat.

It was a month when I did not see mum but I rang her every day and did my duty watering my friends, on the 30th floor of The Barbican's, plants while they were away. I do my best to be a good friend.

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The Exquisite New Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair Opens in Hanover Square - London/ Shrewsbury - June 2024

1/7/2024

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June 2024 was quite a month.

Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair & Akira Back

I was one of the first members of the public to see the flawless Mandarin Oriental. Mayfair, was presented with one of their Vivienne Westwood fans & loved trying an Akira Back kimchi croissant.

A Prestfelde Reunion on a Boat & a 50th Birthday Celebration on a Canal Boat

I attended a Prestfelde Prep School reunion on a boat on the River Seven and was also part of an unbelievable 50th birthday celebration on a London canal boat. The Ruinart champagne bottle cake for the later was beyond belief.

Mum Has Some Astonishing Friends

During my time in Shrewsbury that month, mum & I visited some of her friends. While touring their breathtaking gardens, and talking about flowers, some of mum's memories of our previous homes came back that I thought were lost forever.

Life is so Fragile. We are not Promised a Tomorrow so Give it Everything You Have Got

It was a month when I leant Julian Lewis-Booth died of a heart attack. He was in my year at Shrewsbury School and Kenny Ng, him and I reconnected over a lunch during COVID-19. He had only recent dealt with his mother's death and leaves a wife & two sons. He was a true gentleman and a kind & caring friend.

A Police Report

It was also the month where I had to make a police report to West Mercia Police about a verbal assault by the neighbour of mum's mentioned in my April 2024 post.

My time at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair, and the feeling I did everything I could for mum, definitely, made it a '7 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) month. Hope you enjoy the photos of a very special 50th birthday celebration etc. Tip: try Jeremy King's latest London opening 'The Park' for breakfast, with its ''free' coffee refills.

Susanne is GM of Mandarin Oriental Mayfair. We first met when she was GM of Mandarin Oriental, Manhattan & our faces say it all over how happy we are the Mandarin Oriental in Hanover Square is, finally. open.

My mum looking elegant, happy & relaxed.

`The birthday girl & her sister, who I also met at Mandarin Oriental, Manhattan.

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VE Day Celebrations at Peninsula, London; A Friend from Rome Visits; The Patisserie at Pan Pacific, London & Mum Looks So Well - London/ Shrewsbury - May 2025

Birthday Balloons at Four Seasons, Tower Bridge; a Four Seasons @ Park Lane Easter Egg; My Brother's Family Easter Sunday Birthday; & the Little Blue Noodle Bar @ Peninsula, London - London/ Shrewsbury - April 2025

45 Park Lane; Peninsula, London; The Emory & Unbelievable Friends, a Birthday Beyond Compare - London - March 2025

Meeting Chef Nobu Matsuhisa; Lunch at 'Kioku by Endo'; A Breakfast Chat With Lynn Brutman, GM of Four Seasons, London at Park Lane; Celebrating Mum's Birthday; the 'SF Martini' Served in 'The Spy Bar' at Raffles at The OWO - Feb & Mar 2025

Christmas & New Year in London, Orthodox Christmas with Mum in Shrewsbury & Chinese New Year at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge - London & Shrewsbury - December 2024, January & February 2025

Home but the Celebrations Continue - London & Shrewsbury - November/ December 2024

Qatar Airways - Flight From Doha to London in Qsuites - November 2024

Four Seasons, Doha - The 'Epic Trip' Had To End Here - Doha, Qatar - November 2024

Mandarin Oriental, Doha - Better Than Perfect - Doha, Qatar - November 2024

Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach - A 'First Customer' Returns Again & Another Four Seasons That Keeps Getting Better - Dubai, the UAE - November 2024

The Lana, Dubai - Dorchester Collection Perfection In The Middle East - Dubai, the UAE - November 2024

W Hotel, Doha - Never Boring! - Doha, Qatar - October/ November 2024

Four Seasons, Bahrain Bay - A 'First Customer' Returns & This Four Seasons Has Got Even Better! - Manama, Bahrain - October 2024

The Sukhothai, Bangkok - The Perfect End to the Thailand Leg of My 'Epic Trip' - Bangkok, Thailand - October 2024

Four Seasons Tented Camp - Breakfast With Elephants & Blessings From Buddhist Monks - More Dreams Come True - The Golden Triangle, Thailand - October 2024

Four Seasons, Chiang Mai - Where It All Started! Chiang Mai, Thailand - October 2024

Capella, Bangkok: Cote by Mauro Colagreco - A Legendary Meal - Bangkok, Thailand - October 2024

Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, Impressive Scale, A Foodie Paradise, 'BKK Social Club' & Flawless Service - Bangkok, Thailand - October 2024

SO/ Bangkok & Christian Lacroix, A Very Special Stay - Bangkok, Thailand - October 2024

Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, a Legendary Hotel Gets Even Better. The Captain Andersen Suite; Veuve Clicquot Champagne; Gaggan's New Venue; Peninsula Champagne with the MD of Peninsula, Bangkok & Lunch with Kenny Ng - Bangkok, Thailand - October 2024

Four Seasons, Amman - An 'Epic Trip' Could Not Have Had a Better Start - Amman, Jordan - October 2024

Preparing for an 'Epic Trip' - Shrewsbury & London - September 2024

Mum & The Shrewsbury Flower Show - Shrewsbury/ London - August 2024

A New UK Government & a 'Fresh Start' - London - July 2024

The Exquisite New Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair Opens in Hanover Square - London/ Shrewsbury - June 2024

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