Modern Day Downton Abbey

Set in 18 acres in the heart of Somerset, England a modern day Downton Abbey called Babington House is everything I need right now for a holiday.  This oasis of a hotel is a two and a half hour drive from London.  While retreating at Babington you can spoil yourself by relaxing in the spa, experience their Cinema, brush up on you tennis, or perhaps cricket pitch, croquet or a walk around the lake.  There is also a charming church which is shown in the second to last image.  Check it out here. Enjoy!

  

The Enchantment continues

As promised, photos from Morocco's Peacock Pavilions main house!

Desert Enchantment

Maryam and Chris of Peacock Pavilions are by far the best host's I have ever had. Chantal, the most splendid chef prepared meals that exceeded our vegetarian expectations. The entire staff made us feel welcome and delivered exceptional service. From every angle of this enchanted fortress the visual feast was captivating, from Chris and Maryam's global collections through out all spaces in the riad, to the inviting over-sized pool that is enveloped by Chris's architectural masterpieces. One will feel as though they were a Queen or King atop the rooftop verandas overlooking the desert and the beautiful olive groves. We were certainly in a dream state during our stay at Peacock Pavilions. Maryam's and Chris's creation is a desert enchantment in the middle of Morocco. I am certainly looking forward to our next visit!  Oh! and by the way, these images are of just the structure I stayed in!  Stay tuned for the main area of the Riad!!

The Perfect Riad

As it's pouring ice outside here in NYC, I'm thinking about warmer climates once again.  I continue my search for places to stay during my Morocco trip in Spring, and I came across this stunner in Marrakesh.  The over-sized planters in the outdoor space makes a dramatic statement.  The patina window shutters and wood work though out creates a nice contrast to the concrete floors and walls.  This perfect Riad will suit me just fine!

Moroccan Dream, Hotel #2

Since I'm going to Morocco in spring and it's so damn cold here and the streets of NYC are full of icy brown sludge I thought it was befitting that my second hotel post reflect where my mind is currently at right now...warmer climates and exotic interiors!  During my lodging research for my spring sabbatical I found a chic retreat located in Essaouira, Morocco called Dar Beida. This white structure from the 1960's era is located in an old port city in the west of Morocco.  Designed and decorated by the British owners, they scoured local flea markets and Souks to fill the interiors with vintage objects and furniture resulting in a warm and eclectic atmosphere.  Collections of skulls such as bird, dolphin, camel and cows found washed up on the Moroccan shores or collected from the desert, were arranged on the walls which create pattern and shadow.  The owners added bulbous shaped fire places to most of the 4 bedrooms.  But, now back to my day dream filled mind! The rooftop bedroom pictured just below which opens up onto a rooftop terrace is where I take retreat, sipping on, hmmmmm, well some yummy local drink of course, soaking in the warm sun light, catching the comforting breeze from the dry desert and enjoying the salty scent from the nearby shore.  Spring just can't come fast enough!