The Ritz
London

Opened in 1906 by renowned hotelier Cesar Ritz, The Ritz is a classic London icon and one of the world's most famous hotels. Inspired by Paris's Rue de Rivoli, Cesar Ritz was the first to bring French palatial style to turn-of-the-century London. Rooms have been perfectly maintained to reflect their original neo-classic Louis XVI design but modern touches such as sleek marble bathrooms and flat-screen televisions keep the hotel very much in the present. The Ritz is also London's only hotel that borders Green Park meaning that a stroll to Buckingham Palace takes a matter of minutes. Children are always welcome and treated like royalty expect presents on arrival and thoughtful touches from free ice-cream to their own VIP scheme. Recently refurbished, the art-deco Rivoli Bar is an institution and the perfect place for a coupe-de-champagne at any time of day. Meanwhile The Ritz Restaurant is an opulent frescoed and gold extravaganza which, alongside serving three meals a day, hosts 'Live at the Ritz', an evening of dinner and dancing. Afternoon Tea is, of course, a must served in the Belle-Epoque style Palm Court and with over 17 teas to choose from this really is one of London's most impressive tea experiences.

I travel a lot; I hate having my life disrupted by routine.
Caskie Stinnett