Review: Hilton Athens

Review: Hilton Athens

Hilton Athens closed in January this year for extensive renovations, but will reopen as a Conrad hotel in 2025. It was our favourite place to stay when visiting Athens on trips to Greece.   The Parthenon that towers over the Acropolis hill seen from the guest rooms is so beautiful, especially at twilight. Watching the sunset over the city of Athens every time I stayed here was such a joy.  Even after the sun has completely set, the Parthenon seen from the Galaxy Bar on the top floor of the hotel takes on a different atmosphere from the day, and the soft glow radiates a captivating charm that makes you want…

Long-awaited Aegean Island Hopping from Santorini

Long-awaited Aegean Island Hopping from Santorini

Travelling around the islands of the Aegean Sea is something many of us dream of. Among them, Santorini stands out as one of the most popular destinations. A little research quickly reveals that its appeal goes far beyond the iconic whitewashed houses and blue sea. I was particularly drawn to the island’s dramatic volcanic landscapes and its astonishingly long history, stretching back as far as 3600 BC. In this article, I share the highlights of Santorini as experienced during my stay, focusing on its scenery, activities, food, and accommodation. Contents Cyclades island hoppingDiscover the spectacular views of SantoriniUnderwater hot springSantorini wineMinoan ruinsBeaches and boat toursAccommodationUseful informaion You may also enjoy…

Review: Conrad London St. James (2021)

Review: Conrad London St. James (2021)

From 17/05/2021, accommodations were finally able to reopen in the UK. Book a stay at Conrad London St. James to relax your body and mind in heart of Britain’s bustling capital city! Please also read the latest version, the 2024 review. Contents Check-in and PicnicExecutive LoungeRoom and Dinner in a PubBreakfastUseful Information Check-in and picnic After checking-in in the afternoon, we headed to St. James’s Park, just a stone’s throw from the hotel. After enjoying a picnic with lots of people by the pond on a sunny day, we returned to the hotel in time for the evening cocktail time. At this time of year, evenings are still bright until…

Mykonos, a paradise island in the Aegean Sea, and Delos, an archaeological island

Mykonos, a paradise island in the Aegean Sea, and Delos, an archaeological island

Ever since I visited Ionian Sea (you can read the travel story here) in 2018 and fell in love with the Greek islands, I have been wanting to go back to Greece for a summer vacation, and I started making plans for 2020. I was worried that the sudden pandemic would make it impossible to travel, but I had already booked my flight and accommodation the previous year. I was unsure right up until the last minute, but I decided to go to Greece as planned. This time I decided to visit Mykonos, just north of Naxos. Among the many islands in the Aegean Sea, the beauty of the sea…

Review: Waldorf Astoria Versailles

Review: Waldorf Astoria Versailles

Versailles is a 40-minute train ride from Saint-Lazare Station, which is adjacent to the Hilton Paris Opera, and from there it is a 15-minute walk along the lime tree promenade to arrive at the Waldorf Astoria Versailles Trianon Palace.  The stately appearance is exactly why it is called a palace; the polished marble floor shines like a mirror, and the lobby makes one feel more like arriving at a grand social gathering than at a hotel. The rooms overlook the expansive grounds of the adjacent Palace of Versailles. Away from the hustle and bustle of Paris, you can relax and gaze out on the idyllic scenery, with the sounds of…

Greek friends’ favourite beach at Ionian Sea

Greek friends’ favourite beach at Ionian Sea

In this article, I share a detailed, first-hand account of my visit to the Ionian Sea coast in Greece—the first in 17 years—including how to get there from London and Athens, where to stay, and the highlights of the surrounding area. This travel journal is especially for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy Greece at a relaxed, unhurried pace. Contents First Greek trip after 17 yearsSpending time by the Greek seasideAccess to Ionian SeaAccommodationPlaces to visitUseful information You may also enjoy my other travel stories from Greece. First Greek trip after 17 years I went to Greece for the first time when the currency was still the…