Travel gems by Miss Sophie

Some travel gems, some luxury and some inspiration
  • Home
  • Beautiful Hotels
  • Beautiful Destinations
  • Gems in Norway
  • About
  • Contact
  • Tag: architecture

    • The unique Dalen Hotel in beautiful Telemark, Norway

      Posted at 11:19 am by mylifemyworldrg, on May 31, 2020

      The good thing about this summer, is that I have to travel and experience my own wonderful country. You are always looking for the unique and beautiful experiences in other countries, and forget to have a look at your own. This weekend I visited Telemark County, and stayed at the unique Dalen Hotel. The weather was excellent making the experience even more fantastic. Dalen Hotel, a member of the Historical Hotels of Norway Historical Hotels of Norway, have managed to preserve the original building and ambience from 1894. I love the architecture and the location.

      wp-1590923482956.jpg

      wp-1590909740151.jpg
      wp-1590909549256.jpg
      wp-1590909740166.jpg

      I booked a package at Dalen ” Hike – In the footprints of the Rui girls”. It included both Afternoon Tea, 3-courses dinner and breakfast. When you arrive at Dalen Hotel, you sense that your are heading back in time. The hotel offers you quiet and a time to relax and recharge. And the surroundings both inside and outside the hotel encourage you to just take a deep breath, clear your mind, relax and enjoy. This is not a place to go if you are looking for a party..

      wp-1590909891557.jpg
      wp-1590909891533.jpg
      wp-1590909891510.jpg

      Since the building is from 1894 some of the rooms are without bathroom, you have a common on in the hall. The rooms are well equipped with nice amenities. Bathrobe and slippers, sparkling water, antibac.. No TV, but you don’t have the time to miss it.

      wp-1590909891488.jpg
      wp-1590909891505.jpg
      wp-1590909891495.jpg
      wp-1590909891471.jpg
      wp-1590909740451.jpg
      wp-1590909740525.jpg

      We arrived early, and started the stay with the afternoon tea as lunch. Since the weather was so nice, it was served on the terrace in front of the hotel. After the lunch we had a walk to Rui Gård, in the footprints of the Rui girls. The hike is mainly 700 hundred something  sherpa made stairs. Some nice viewpoints on the way up. It took us about 25 minutes in “normal” speed. Very nice view from Rui Gård, and a very nice place to rest with a cup of coffee.

      wp-1590909433461.jpgwp-1590909433430.jpgwp-1590909740184.jpgwp-1590909740252.jpg

      You can either walk or drive to Vest-Telemark Museum, to have a look at Eidsborg Stave Church and the outdoor museum. The indoor museum was closed due to Corona Virus.

      wp-1590909740297.jpg
      wp-1590909740340.jpg
      wp-1590909740325.jpg
      wp-1590909740356.jpg
      wp-1590909740283.jpg

      My recommendation is to not plan to much, but spend the time enjoying the wonderful Dalen Hotel and the scenery. The ambience, architecture and decor of the hotel. Learn about the history.

      wp-1590909891557.jpg
      wp-1590909891533.jpg
      wp-1590909891564.jpg
      wp-1590909891455.jpg
      wp-1590909891444.jpg
      wp-1590909891464.jpg
      wp-1590909740382.jpg

      In the evening, the three courses dinner was served in the Bandak Restaurant. The staff team was very nice and the courses well presented. Personally the dinner did not meet my expectations in regards of taste and preparations.

      wp-1590909740206.jpgwp-1590909740240.jpgwp-1590909740200.jpg

      wp-1590909549274.jpg
      wp-1590909740313.jpg
      wp-1590909433475.jpg
      wp-1590909549286.jpg
      wp-1590909433481.jpg

      In the bar there was live piano music after dinner

      wp-1590921529634.jpg
      wp-1590909433452.jpg
      wp-1590909549122..jpg

      Breakfast next morning was a served on the table with some a la carte choices, as omelette and eggs in different options, due to corona. It was nice presented. You could also have a glass of champagne. The cup of tea outside afterwards was very nice, the bright sun and looking at MS Henrik Ibsen leaving.

      wp-1590923482943.jpg
      wp-1590923482919.jpg
      wp-1590923482924.jpg
      wp-1590909433405.jpg
      wp-1590910048413.jpg
      wp-1590909549343.jpg
      wp-1590909549414.jpg

      A canal cruise I recommend as well, a very nice experience and a perfect way to explore Telemarkskanalen. This time I could not book tickets, but I have explored it once before.

      Dalen Hotel, a wonderful place to stay, a step back in time, as a fairytale. And the nature in Telemark is very nice, especially when the weather is a nice as it was these two days in May. Here are some last images… The Stave Church is in Heddal, 1,5 hours drive from Dalen

      wp-1590909891547.jpg
      wp-1590909891522.jpg
      wp-1590909891476.jpg
      wp-1590909891455.jpg
      wp-1590909740271.jpg
      wp-1590909740151.jpg
      wp-1590909740105.jpg
      wp-1590909740166.jpg
      wp-1590909549256.jpg
      wp-1590909549072.jpg
      wp-1590909433486.jpg
      wp-1590909549237.jpg
      wp-1590923482962.jpg
      wp-1590923482949.jpg
      wp-1590923482910.jpg
      Posted in hospitality, Hotels, nature, norway, travel, Uncategorized | 0 Comments | Tagged #dalen, #dalenhotel, #heritage, #telemark, architecture, beauty, food, history, hotel, Hotels, inspiration, Leisure, nature, norway, travel
    • Madrid – you are wonderful ;)

      Posted at 7:32 pm by mylifemyworldrg, on December 15, 2019

      What is not to love about Madrid? I admit that sometimes my expectations are not to high when travelling to a new city. It is different reasons for this, I have not had time to search so much information in advance on what to see and do, and the choice of city is often random. This is what happened when I visit Madrid during Christmas and New Year. I wanted to visit a big city, and just searched on flights and accommodation with valuables rates, and Madrid was one of the choices and I am happy I did choose Madrid!

      img_20190101_183117

      Centro Centro

      img_20190101_184103

      Placa de Colon

      img_20190101_184149

      Monument to Christopher Columbus

      img_20181223_182330

      Royale Palace

      You do not see or read so much about Madrid, and I really think this city is underestimated. You find history, architecture, beautiful parks, a lot of restaurants and good shopping. And it gives you much more value for money than for example Paris (even though I love Paris too..)

      img_20181221_185943_990
      img_20181221_162031
      img_20181223_185958_453
      img_20181223_190539_095
      img_20181223_183454

      I stayed for 12 nights, at three different hotels in different areas of the city and I am happy I did since I learned more about the city and got to know some of the areas quite well. Since I am a Leading Hotel of the World traveler, I of course stayed at three at their properties this time as well.

       

      The first night I stayed at Gran Hotel Ingles. A very nice Boutique hotel in the city center. At first location seems a bit of, but when you get familiar with the surroundings you realize it is in the middle of the city and it is just a few minute’s walk to “everywhere”.

      img_20181220_174851
      img_20181220_183333
      img_20181220_173033
      img_20181220_163141
      img_20181221_064918
      img_20181221_065236
      img_20181221_065213
      img_20181221_070414
      img_20181221_071301

      The room at Gran Hotel Ingles was different, with this charming bathtub in the room. My room had a very nice terrace, and the room was very nice equipped. Breakfast was very good. The bar area relaxing. I really enjoyed my stay, and regretted I only had booked for one night..

      img_20181220_171115

      Gran Hotel Ingles

      Then I moved further into the old part of the city, not so far from the Royal Castle, and stayed four nights at Gran Melia Palacio de los Duques. I really loved my stay here as well. Here the staff was very friendly and attentive. I upgraded to the Red Level, and enjoyed my time with a nice share of Ruinart Champagne.. The breakfast was very good, a lot of choices, both health and sweets.. The location of the hotel was very good as well, just a few minute’s walk to “everywere”.

      img_20181221_123332
      img_20181221_122846
      img_20181221_123428
      img_20181221_123445
      img_20181221_123350
      img_20181221_142440
      img_20181222_081032
      img_20181221_171224
      img_20181224_073437
      img_20181224_075035
      img_20181224_184303

      The last 7 days I stayed at Gran Melia Fenix, situated in the Financial and Shopping district of Madrid. The hotel was more “Classic” in regards of the room, but I enjoyed the time in the DRY Cosmopolitan Bar. Vibrant, but still possible to relax. Here I enjoyed most the location, both close to many shopping possibilities, and only a “short” walk from the El Retiro Park, but also many good restaurants in this area. I recommend this district if you stay for a longer period, so many choices.

      img_20181225_121514
      img_20181225_122205_223
      img_20181225_121532
      img_20181225_131047
      img_20181225_131113
      img_20181225_131208
      img_20181225_134308
      img_20181225_134205
      img_20181225_200924_106
      img_20181228_205757
      snapchat-1243074714
      img_20181231_075942

      I prefer to stay as many days as possible when visiting a new city, because you don’t get the spirit, ambience and feeling of the city and its possibilities when only staying one weekend or a couple of days. I stayed 12 days, and loved Madrid more and more for each day.

      img_20190102_074831
      snapchat-432623646
      img_20190101_184753
      img_20190101_184202
      img_20190101_180934
      img_20190101_181137
      img_20181231_132000
      snapchat-309951804
      img_20181230_142053_196
      img_20181230_141641_030
      img_20181230_120134
      img_20181230_114440
      snapchat-1947968590
      img_20181225_152443_359
      img_20181224_180456

      One day I also had this daytrip to Toledo and Segovia, this trip I really recommend! A very nice break from the city, and these two towns are very charming, and with some interesting history as well, and you can include a visit to Alcázar Castle in Segovia.

      img_20181226_170202_421

      Segovia

      img_20181226_170446_870

      Segovia

      img_20181226_170409_587.jpgimg_20181226_170247_920.jpg

      img_20181230_142053_196

      Retiro Park

      img_20181230_141819_930

      Retiro Park

      img_20181225_152443_359

      Metropolis

       

       

      Posted in Hotels, travel, Uncategorized | 0 Comments | Tagged architecture, Christmas, city, Espagne, food, holidays, Hotels, inspiration, lhw, luxuryhotel, luxurytravel, Madrid, Retiro, Sagovia, Spain, Toledo, travel, travelling
    • Istanbul – vibrant and loads of history

      Posted at 2:12 pm by mylifemyworldrg, on October 17, 2019

      Istanbul is a “must visit”. I didn’t know before I actually did visit.. and I had to come back again and again..

      img_20190607_191918
      img_20190607_083216
      1557653859073
      1557653853297
      1557653853101
      img_20190608_212804-1
      View to Hagia Sofia from Seven Hills Restaurant
      View to Hagia Sofia from Seven Hills Restaurant

      This wonderful, vibrant city, with all its history, and being part of both Europe and Asia making it even more interesting. It is a colorful city with a lot of charm. The city have several districts being quite different from each other. You cannot be bored in Istanbul. There are so much to see, experience and learn about. There are a lot of wonderful places in the world, but if you just have to chose one – chose Istanbul and you get a taste and experience of “everything”.

      img_20190518_194338_211
      img_20190518_194338_213
      img_20190517_220932
      img_20190607_192402

      Sultanahmet is the Old Town of Istanbul were the famous Hagia Sofia (Ayasofya) and Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque or Sultanahmet Camii) is situated. Sultanahmet is the district in Istanbul with most tourist, and can be very crowded. But still a very nice, colorful and vibrant place, with different bazars, a lot of restaurants and some shops. And of course a lot of hotels and other accommodation. It is a very nice place to stay, and easy to use the tram to move around in Istanbul. If you are staying for a longer stay or more than one visit, the Istanbul Card is recommendable.

      When starting to write on this blog, I realized it is to much to write about for just one post, but I will try to..

      1557653853166
      1557658132889
      1557598793195
      1557598791434
      1557598787101
      img_20190606_195435

      View to Hagia Sofia from Seven Hills Restaurant

      img_20190518_194338_215

      Hagia Sofia

      Hagia Sofia is a former cathedral, which became a mosque, but is now a museum. The history, and the beautiful inside of Hagia Sofia is worth a visit. The architecture is wonderful and so many unique Mosaics.

      img_20190911_132425
      img_20190911_132634
      img_20190911_131104
      img_20190911_132220
      img_20190911_132356
      img_20190911_131847
      img_20190911_130918
      img_20190911_133234
      img_20190911_130825
      img_20190911_133743
      img_20190911_132918
      img_20190911_132423

      Gülhane Park is situated in connection to Sultanahmet , a nice park were you can have a short walk in relaxing surrandings, if you want to get away from the crowd.

      1557653853101
      1557653853297
      1557653859073

      Nearby you also find Yerebatan Sarnici or Basilica Cistern, with the Medusas. An interesting story, and this attraction is both cheap and do not have this long queues as many of the others.

      img_20190517_175145
      img_20190517_175345
      img_20190518_194338_212

      On the other side of Bosphorus you find Karaköy with Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) and the Taksim shopping street. A visit on the top of Galata Tower gives you the best view of Istanbul, but here again – there is a lot of people and you have to stand in line for a while to get the opportunity to explore this view..

      IMG_20190912_105141.jpg

      img_20190608_212804

      img_20190912_101051

      In Taksim shopping street you find all kinds of shops, expensive to cheap, and Istanbul is a good place to shop. You can find very cheap alternatives to whatever you would like to shop.

      IMG_20190913_184529.jpg
      IMG_20190913_181631.jpg

      In Taksim you also find nice cafés and bars, as you find all over Istanbul. You can always find some good food here, their food is inspired from both continents, and every country and culture around Turkey, and “added” their own traditions. The food is tasty and with flavors and colors 🙂 .

      IMG_20190910_212214.jpg
      IMG_20190911_121143.jpg
      IMG_20190911_195155.jpg
      IMG_20190911_201728.jpg
      IMG_20190912_215219.jpg

      A very good option to dine is one of the restaurants situated by the Bosphorus

      img_20190913_195249
      img_20190913_203555
      IMG_20190511_194828.jpg
      IMG_20190511_195925.jpg
      IMG_20190512_131211.jpg
      IMG_20190517_140755.jpg
      Mado Café
      Mado Café
      Desserts and sweets
      Desserts and sweets
      Turkish tea
      Turkish tea

      Mado is of Turkish origin and their ice creams are made of goat milk. It is very tasty, and the goatmilk taste is not strong. Mado have a history of more than 100 years. And you can choose between plenty of tasty desserts and ice cream flavors.

      A daytrip to Price Island (or Kızıl Adalar in Turkish) is absolute to recommend. The ferry takes about an hour, and there are different island to choose between. The largest island Büyükada, is a really nice and charming island. I recommend to rent some bicycles and bike around the island to get to know ot and see all the charming Ottoman Mansions and beautiful views, a wonderful experience.

      img_20190912_132126

      Beautiful scenery with Istanbul and the beginning of the sunset in behind, when the ferry is bringing you back from Adalar / Prince Islands.

      IMG_20190912_133406.jpg
      IMG_20190912_134144.jpg
      IMG_20190912_132159.jpg
      IMG_20190517_220903.jpg
      IMG_20190517_220350.jpg
      IMG_20190517_220508.jpg

      The Ortaköy area of Istanbul is also very nice. More quiet, but still very vibrant. A very good option to were to stay, and very nice view as well. The Ortaköy Mosque is the “landmark” of this area.

      There are also many different cruises to join at Bosphorus, both daytime and night. If you choose to go, I recommend you to do good research to find one that will suit you. There are different dining options, music and entertainment. The pricerange and the quality varies a lot. For me, I don’t think it was value for money. Even if you have nice views, the total experience was not worth the money, but then I probably should have choose another cruise supplier.

      img_20190607_214215
      img_20190607_214424
      img_20190607_215350

      Views of Istanbul..

      IMG_20190517_162554.jpg
      IMG_20190517_162216.jpg
      IMG_20190911_144950.jpg

      Since I have been in Istanbul a couple of times I have tried different hotels as well. My favorite is Kempinski Ciragan Palace, but Swissotel The Bosphorus was a very pleasant surprise. Both are in Besiktas area, with some distance from Sultanahmet. In Sultanahmet area I can recommend Hotel Yasmak Sultan. It is located just a few minutes walk from Hagia Sofia, and only 2 minutes from the Tram Station. The restaurant is situated on the top and have very nice views on both sides of the city. The room and bathroom was delicate and fresh. And they have both pool and gym.

      1557589194472
      1557589194382
      1557589194351
      1557589194411
      1557592943264
      1557592996260
      1557595592415
      1557595418955

      Another option is Celine Hotel situated on the other side of Hagia Sofia. This is a Ottoman Mansion with only 14 rooms, so breakfast and facilities are limited. Nice, but don’t think I will stay there again.

      img_20190606_190951
      img_20190606_180441
      img_20190606_180504

      On the Galata Tower side, Karaköy, you find 10 Karaköy Istanbul a sbe hotel. Not a favorite either if you are looking for value for money. The rooms are small, and breakfast average. But interior are nice and delicate.

      1559990295277
      1559990295112
      1559990295039
      1559990295008
      1559990294952

      Then we have Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul, i really liked this one, it was large but not too large. It was vibrant and modern. The room had a very nice view to the Bosphorus, and had plenty of amenities.

      img_20190516_201323
      img_20190516_200512
      img_20190516_194116
      img_20190517_120744
      img_20190516_194158
      img_20190516_194141
      img_20190517_101809
      img_20190517_102206
      img_20190516_200952

      And I loved of course the rooftop bar and the view..

      Kempinski has another price range, but it is my favourite, and I have stayed there three times, so it have to have it’s own blog post..

      I will have different recommendations for different people, because Istanbul have everything, and it depends on what you want to experience and prefer of accommodation and surroundings. Please let me know if you have some questions, I will be happy to assist!

      img_20190518_092921_441
      img_20190517_124451
      img_20190610_094208
      1554758300880
      1554817863468
      1554923077790
      1554956188047
      1554923780594
      Posted in travel, Uncategorized | 0 Comments | Tagged Adalar, architecture, Bosphorus, city, Colors, Dining, Galata Tower, Hagia Sofia, historical, history, holidays, Hotels, inspiration, Istanbul, Karaköy, Leisure, life, Museum, Ortaköy, Ottoman, Prince Islands, shopping, Sultanahmet, Taksim, travel, travelling, Turkey, View
    • Athens – heritage, architecture and charm

      Posted at 10:06 am by mylifemyworldrg, on July 25, 2019

      It is time to start to post some of my travels the past year. It has been a busy year, and time flies. When it slows down in the summertime, you get the time to reflect on what has passed and everything you have explored. And Athens is one of the beautiful cities I have had the pleasure to explore.

      imag4210
      imag4183
      snapchat-761925587

      Athens has the beauty and charm of the heritage sites and buildings around the city, together with charming streets and wonderful views. All this makes it a wonderful city to visit. And for me that loves history and architecture – perfect.  The city center is not that big, and can be crowded as it is a popular city for tourists. I visited in August, and according to the locals it is not so crowded this month because the locals are out of town on vacations.

      Since I am not to happy in standing in line for the tourist attractions, I have found my own “way” of exploring the most without. The first day on my trips I usually get on one of the Hop On Hop Off busses to get to know the city and “identify what to explore more in detail”.

      imag4151

      Acropolis

      imag4153imag4158imag4160snapchat-440825033

       

       

      In Athens I loved to stroll around in the charming streets, were you still feel the heritage ambiance.

      imag4204
      imag4215
      imag4216
      imag4213
      imag4212
      imag4190
      imag4210
      imag4209
      snapchat-1390158325

       

       

      imag4244
      imag4247
      imag4245
      imag4218

      snapchat-765479679

       

      And then I am always looking for a nice place to dine.. preferably with a view and some charm and great food, wine and quality..

      Luckily I discovered this place in Athens on my first day, and came back again and again.. A warm recommendation to visit Tudor Hall at King Georges perfectly situated on the Syntagma square. Here you get everything, the wonderful view, ambiance, attention, food and drinks.

      imag4173

       

      snapchat-2123500276
      imag4165
      imag4164
      imag4167
      imag4168
      imag4171
      snapchat-1205347491

       

       

      And in the evening I am hunting for the sunset. I enjoy to sit and relax and watch the beauty of the sunsets. I found the perfect setting for this at Hilton Athens..

       

      snapchat-1115761041
      imag4183
      snapchat-901470973

       

       

      And yes, we returned to enjoy it with our dinner several nights

       

      snapchat-294959797
      imag4271
      snapchat-614091413
      imag4267

      As a Leading Hotels of the World traveler I stayed at the Divani Caravel Hotel in the beginning of my stay in Athens. I was upgraded to a suite with a very nice view to the Acropolis. The swimmingpool on the rooftop had also a nice view.

      imag4119
      imag4122
      imag4131
      imag4125
      imag4139
      imag4142
      imag4145
      imag4243
      imag4175

      One morning I had a perfect room service breakfast in my room

      imag4186
      imag4185
      imag4187

      After some days here, we moved to Syntagma Square area and stayed at NJV Athens Plaza.

      imag4278
      imag4284
      imag4279
      imag4280

      Here we enjoyed most the location and were happy of having King George and Grand Bretagne as “neighbours”, with more wonderful views and great dining.

       

      snapchat-730658949
      imag4297
      snapchat-2020344840
      imag4295
      snapchat-104541233
      snapchat-761925587
      imag4287
      imag4285
      imag4310
      snapchat-1810893468
      imag4308
      imag4307
      imag4298

      snapchat-761925587

      The last night I explored the beaches of Athens, staying at Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso. A wonderful gem, and I got this room with a great balcony and view..

       

      snapchat-390500042
      snapchat-1256981059

       

      imag4317
      snapchat-772830545
      imag4318

      Enjoying life 🙂

      imag4322
      imag4324
      imag4335
      snapchat-2071226850
      snapchat-959255199
      imag4320
      imag4319

      Sunset and evening ambiance by the pool area

      snapchat-2032448801
      imag4332
      imag4331
      imag4333

      Breakfast on the balcony with a perfect view in a quiet morning

      snapchat-958772845
      imag4336

       

       

       

      So, do I want to go back and visit Athens again? Yes, I do!

      You know my blogspots are not so into details, so feel free to contact me if any questions on how, what, why’s.. 🙂

      Posted in Hotels, travel | 1 Comment | Tagged ancient, architecture, Athens, beauty, city, Colors, Dining, Greece, historical, history, Hotels, inspiration, Leisure, life, nature, restaurant, travel, travelling, View, World heritage
    • Museum Hotel, Cappadocia, Turkey

      Posted at 2:09 pm by mylifemyworldrg, on April 21, 2019

      Museum Hotel – is a gem. Unique, in wonderful settings. Just to sit and enjoy the views, and all the historical items you can find all around you. Be sure not to pack the day with to many other things to visit in Cappadocia when you are staying at Museum Hotel, because you have to spend the time at the property..

      img_20190414_123554img_20190414_123714img_20190414_112851img_20190414_123401

      The room was very nice, with good size. And there was a lot of amenities. Even in the room a lot of historical items, making the ambiance great.

      img_20190414_130202img_20190414_130326img_20190414_130309img_20190414_130211img_20190414_130454img_20190414_130503img_20190414_130547img_20190414_134826

      Since there was changing weather while I was visiting, it was very nice to dine in the warm and cozy Restaurant Lil’a.

      img_20190414_150859img_20190414_151550img_20190414_153657img_20190414_155701img_20190414_150910img_20190414_124024img_20190414_124136img_20190415_163644img_20190415_141014img_20190415_142042

      The outside area was the best, scenery changing with weather and lighting trough the day. Could never get enough pictures of the views..

      img_20190414_155903img_20190414_155944img_20190414_184514img_20190414_184626img_20190414_185759img_20190414_193211img_20190414_193046img_20190414_193123img_20190414_193202img_20190414_193542img_20190414_193336img_20190414_193258img_20190414_194010img_20190414_193735img_20190414_193906img_20190415_181920

      In the morning, the two peacocks will be awaking you.. Or at least they was walking outside my window, giving me this joyful morning view..

      img_20190415_134424_820img_20190415_081959img_20190415_081716

      The breakfast buffet was large, with plenty of turkish and local products. Have to go back to get some pictures from it..

      The Museum Hotel experience was very good due to the setting, but many of the team members seemed a bit unexperienced and there was quite a few details missing to make it to the top of the 5 star hotels.

      But still, I hope to be able to revisit and it is on my recommended list for you to visit.

       

       

      img_20190415_182917
      img_20190415_202714
      img_20190414_161657

      img_20190414_194746img_20190414_194949img_20190415_082205img_20190414_114124img_20190415_085018img_20190414_123213img_20190414_122954img_20190414_123205img_20190414_112756

      Posted in Hotels, travel, Uncategorized | 1 Comment | Tagged architecture, Cappadocia, Colors, Dining, historical, inspiration, Kapadokya, life, Museum, nature, restaurant, travel, travelling, Turkey, View
    • Giraffe Manor

      Posted at 6:48 am by mylifemyworldrg, on March 30, 2018

      IMG_20180326_162749_540.jpg

      A perfect day, this is what we experienced when we stayed at the Giraffe Manor. If you have the opportunity to travel and visit this wonderful hotel with the beautiful and gentile giraffes – do it!

      We arrived at 11.00 am after being picked up at our hotel location in Nairobi. It was so quiet and beautiful to sit down outside the manor and just listen to the singing birds and surroundings. The welcome was very attentive and warm, and the staff team was very caring. We got served refreshments while filling out all formalities. It was no rush, and for me that was wonderful, just sit quietly and enjoy the surroundings.

      Snapchat-1602661505

      Giraffe Manor from the parking entrance

      IMAG3166

      We stayed in the beautiful room “Daisy”. The room was not so large, but had light and bright colors, and very charming bathroom and a wonderful terrace. I loved it.

      IMAG3236.jpg

      IMAG3190

      IMAG3178

      IMAG3179

      IMAG3196

      IMAG3197

      IMAG3181

      IMAG3189

      A personal welcome note and fresh roses

      Snapchat-538554767

      From our terrace;

      IMAG3185
      Snapchat-491074182
      Snapchat-608518196
      Snapchat-1565085653

      My recommendation is to arrive early so you have the chance to enjoy the property before the Afternoon Tea at 17.00 when we have the first interaction with the giraffes and get to feed them and get photos.

      IMAG3210
      IMAG3208
      IMAG3220
      IMAG3215
      IMAG3177
      IMAG3176
      IMAG3169

      We got served this wonderful lunsj on the patio, the food was so tasteful and the ambiance perfect.

      IMAG3240

      IMAG3242

      IMAG3243

      IMAG3245

      IMAG3247

      Snapchat-1216175629

      The manor have some beautiful common areas, I really loved the Living Room with the grammofon playing evocative music, so you kind of felt going back in time.

      IMAG3205

      IMAG3204

      IMAG3222

      Snapchat-109945110.jpg

      IMAG3221

      IMAG3207

      IMAG3229

      IMAG3234

      IMAG3231

      Dining room in the Manor

      At 17.00 the giraffes came for Afternoon Tea, and we got to feed them with pellets and got a lot of pictures and videos. A lot of fun

      IMAG3273.jpg

      Snapchat-487438545.jpg

      IMAG3275.jpg

      IMAG3278.jpg

      Snapchat-1702167672.jpg

      IMAG3248

      IMAG3264

      Later we had dinner together with some of the other guests at the Manor in the Main Dining Room, it was a candle light dinner.

      IMAG3281

      Early the next morning at 6.00 am the first giraffe came to get fed by the guestroom windows and terrace. And later we eat breakfast together. It was a wonderful and fun experience.

      Snapchat-2074163485.jpg

      IMAG3301.jpg

      IMAG3308.jpg

      Snapchat-354453086.jpg

      IMAG3310.jpg

      received_1643585229093026.jpg

      IMAG3351.jpg

      Snapchat-744453201.jpg

      IMG_20180327_111957_300.jpg

      IMG_20180327_095904_106.jpg

      IMAG3328.jpg

      IMAG3337.jpg

      IMAG3324.jpg

      IMAG3349.jpg

      And some videos at the end..

      Posted in Hotels, travel, Uncategorized | 0 Comments | Tagged africa, architecture, beautiful places, beautifulhotels, beauty, bucketlist, Charming, decor, exploring, gem, giraffe manor, giraffes, holidays, hotel, Hotels, inspiration, kenya, Leisure, life, luxury, luxuryhotel, luxurytravel, nairobi, nature, travel, travelling, View
    • Exploring Beverly Hills & Hollywood

      Posted at 2:14 pm by mylifemyworldrg, on January 1, 2018

      This year we decided to visit and explore Los Angeles and California during the holidays. It was a good decision, we had a wonderful time.

      We stayed 4 nights in Beverly Hills, at Mr. C which is a member of The Leading Hotel of the World. The hotel was situated quite good in Beverwil Drive, not to far from Rodeo Drive.

      Rodeo Drive was dressed up for the holiday season, and I loved this area of the city. So clean and beautiful decorated. It felt safe to walk around alone, both in the shopping street of Rodeo Drive, and also the whole street while I one day walked all the way from Beverly Hills Hotel in Sunset Boulevard down to Wilshire Hotel.

      IMAG2452

      Sunset at Rodeo Drive

      IMAG2430

      Christmastree at Rodeo Drive

      IMAG2429

      Beautiful signs

      IMAG2435IMAG2433IMAG2439

      IMAG2440

      Rodeo Drive

      The visit in LA was very good, but not everything was as expected. For me Beverly Hills has been a very positive surprise, while Hollywood for me was a turn down. I had expected that Hollywood was more glamorous, but appeared to be a “tourist trap” with very little charm – from my perspective. I understand that people would like to see the Hollywood sign and the Stars on Walk of Fame, but there is nothing else to see or experience. The area appeared dirty and with a lot of people trying to force you to buy everything from a sightseeing trip to a CD. For me it was quite fussy.

      Snapchat-1013276413

      IMAG2536
      IMAG2492
      IMAG2493

      Luckily we had this Best of Hollywood Food Tour the second day, were we had a private tour guide telling us a lot about the history of Hollywood. That added some value.

      Trisha, our private guide, had picked out some very nice places for us to visit and dine. First, she guided us around the Hollywood Boulevard area and taught us a lot about the history of Hollywood and the history of the different theaters.
      After a good hour, we started to drive to different restaurants. interesting places we would not have found or chosen by ourself. We had the best pizza ever from the Pizza Mozza 2go – try it if you are in the neighbourhood.

      IMAG2549
      IMAG2553
      IMAG2554
      IMAG2555
      IMAG2563
      IMAG2547
      IMAG2550
      IMAG2552
      IMAG2562

       

      At Mr. C we enjoyed the accommodation and the balcony. One morning we had breakfast on the balcony after view the sunrise.

      IMAG2413

      Snapchat-1205596715

      Bellini welcomedrink

      IMAG2414IMAG2416Snapchat-1811009936IMAG2410IMAG2411IMAG2421IMAG2420IMAG2419

      Snapchat-1030254226

      The Bar

      IMAG2417

      Christmastree

      Snapchat-246851817

      IMG_20171220_083416_402

      Breakfast with a view

      Snapchat-556525077

      Sunset

      IMAG2423

      Mr. C – Hall

      IMAG2422

      Lemons in the garden

      IMAG2481

      Continental Breakfast

      IMAG2480

      Restaurant

      IMAG2466

      IMAG2473

      Sunrise – Looking at Los Angeles Downtown

      IMAG2581

      Breakfast on the balcony

      IMAG2585

      IMAG2580

      Sunrise

      IMAG2579

      View Los Angeles Downtown

       

      One of the days I strolled around in Beverly Hills, and visited some of the beautiful hotels. Had tea at wonderful Peninsula Beverly Hills and had a very good lunch at Beverly Hills Hotel (Dorchester Collection).

      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Wilshire Hotel - Four Season
      Wilshire Hotel – Four Season
      Wilshire Hotel - Four Season
      Wilshire Hotel – Four Season
      Wilshire Hotel - Four Season
      Wilshire Hotel – Four Season
      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Peninsula Beverly Hills
      Beverly Hills Hotel - Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel - Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection
      Teatime at Peninsula
      Teatime at Peninsula
      Beverly Hills Hotel - Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel - Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel - Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel - Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel - Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection
      Christmastree at Peninsula
      Christmastree at Peninsula
      Beverly Hills Hotel - Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection
      IMAG2612
      Beverly Hills Hotel - Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel - Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel - Dorchester Collection
      Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection

      A very good dining option in Beverly Hills area, if you do not want to spend too much money on a meal is Cheesecake Factory in Beverly Drive. The driver who picked us up on the Airport recommended us Cheesecake Factory, and we are glad she did. They have a large selection of dishes, and even have their own “slim” menu. The portions are huge, and are ideal to share. We ordered one dish each, and it was way to much food. On our third visit we had enough experience to just order one dish each, and share instead.

      IMAG2457
      IMAG2500
      IMAG2501
      IMAG2503

      Another restaurant we visited and were very pleased with was Il Pastaio in Canon Drive. An Italian restaurant with very good ambiance and good food.

      We visited Cheesecake Factory in Farmers Market (Grove) and in Macy’s in San Francisco too.

      Our total experience dining in California or the country as whole, is that the food mainly is quite heavy and unhealthy. A lot of fat, especially for Breakfast were they mainly serve A la Carte.

      If visiting Universal Studios, the recommendation is to buy First in Line tickets. It is a bit more expensive, but the time you save is worth it.

      We would love to go back to Los Angeles, a big city and we did not have enough time to explore everything. But we would minimize the time spent in Hollywood.

      We also had a wonderful time at Santa Monica, see the link below;

      Hotel Casa Del Mar at Santa Monica Beach, Los Angeles, California

       

       

       

      Posted in Hotels, travel, Uncategorized | 0 Comments | Tagged architecture, bar, beautiful, beauty, Beverly Hills, California, Christmas, city, decor, Dining, holidays, Hollywood, hotel, Hotels, inspiration, LA, Leisure, life, Los Angeles, restaurant, Rodeo Drive, travel, travelling, usa, View
    • Hotel Casa Del Mar at Santa Monica Beach, Los Angeles, California

      Posted at 5:43 pm by mylifemyworldrg, on December 30, 2017

      Casa Del Mar – This is my new favorite hotel, everything was perfect from start to end. Hotel Casa Del Mar is perfectly situated at Santa Monica beach, by the Pier. Beautiful setting to look at both the sunset or the sunrise. The hotel itself is beautiful with classic interior and decor in maritime colors. The hotel is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World.

      Even if we arrived early in the morning, they had the room ready for us for check-in. They had even upgraded our room, to sea view and view to the pier. A wonderful room with good size, with a large bathroom. A lot of amenities in the room, and the I loved the quality of the bathrobe and all the attention to details in the room.

      Snapchat-1218067562IMAG2641

      IMAG2642

      Loved the decor in the room, felt more like a living room at home than a hotel room

      IMAG2644IMAG2645IMAG2648IMAG2703Snapchat-1372561867

      IMG_20171221_140542_472

      View from the Room #1

      IMAG2643

      View from the room #2

      After the turndown service in the afternoon, there were wine and snack awaiting for us in the room

      IMAG2753
      IMAG2752

       

      One hour bike rental was included in the rate, and it was a wonderful ride from the Santa Monica Pier to Venice Beach and back. Since we visited in December the temperature was a bit low for relaxing on the beach. But it was perfect to enjoy and explore the surroundings without a crowd of people.

      Snapchat-1425919886

      The Beach side / Front side of the Hotel Casa Del Mar

      IMAG2676

      Free bike rental handled by their sister hotel “Shutters” situated just a few meters from Casa Del Mar

       

      IMAG2684

      From the Pier, were trail 66 ends.

      IMAG2682

       

      IMAG2712

      The beach a sunny day in December..

      IMAG2678

       

      The interior of the hotel, The Lobby and Restaurant

      Snapchat-252010059

      The beautiful entrance of the hotel

      Snapchat-1910308176

      The Restaurant ready for Breakfast time

      IMAG2802

      Wonderful Cabanas

      IMAG2807

      IMAG2808

      The Lobby

      IMAG2800

      Coffee available for early birds before breakfast

      IMAG2801

      The Lounge with the restaurant in the back

      IMAG2806

      The Bar

       

       

      Snapchat-1859851181

      Breakfast

       

      IMAG2804

      Beautiful sunrise view from the breakfast table

      IMAG2700IMAG2664IMAG2662IMAG2660IMAG2659IMAG2661

      The Exterior of the hotel with the pool area, and some pictures of both sunset and sunrise..

       

      IMAG2653IMAG2656

      IMAG2790

      Early morning

      IMAG2791

      Soon sunrise

      IMAG2793

      Qu