Last week I was invited on a wonderful trip with Oetker Collection, a European hotel brand with masterpiece properties in some of the world's most desirable destinations, to experience Brenners Park Hotel & Spa in Baden-Baden, Le Bristol in Paris and The Lanesborough in London.

We started in Baden-Baden, an easy two hour drive on the Autobahn from the Frankfurt airport.

Nestled in the picturesque Black Forest region of Germany, Baden-Baden is renowned for its spa culture and stunning landscapes. At the heart of this charming town lies Brenners Park Hotel & Spa, a luxurious hotel that epitomizes elegance and tranquility. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Brenners Park offers an unforgettable experience.

The hotel has been welcoming guests since 1872, exuding old-world charm while seamlessly integrating modern luxury. Brenners main building is currently undergoing a top to bottom gut renovation. We enjoyed a behind the scenes hard hat tour and it is clear that the results, once complete, will surely be spectacular. Brenners is expected to re-open it's new main building by next summer.

Besides a traditional spa, Brenners also has a medical spa with state of the art facilities that house both an aesthetic dental clinic as well as a holistic medical facility. People travel from around the world for Brenners detox and weight loss programs, immune care, biological therapy, veneers and teeth whitening and much more.

There is so much to do at Brenners that is family friendly - classic car tour and hike with picnic in the Black Forest, a visit to the Festpierhaus (Europe's second largest Opera House with visits from major symphony, ballet and opera company's from around the world), a casino straight out of 007, golf and so much more.

A quick hour and a half train from Paris, makes Brenners a fantastic resort add-on to a city trip.

Last week was also the release of the 2024 World's 50 Best Hotels, and sitting at number 40 was our next stop: Le Bristol in Paris (you may recognize Le Bristol - where Midnight in Paris was filmed).

Located in the 8th arrondissement, Le Bristol Paris stands as a beacon of luxury and sophistication. With its rich history, exquisite accommodations, and impeccable service, this iconic hotel offers an unparalleled experience that captivates both locals and travelers alike.

The accommodations at Le Bristol Paris are truly exceptional. Each room and suite is uniquely designed, featuring lavish furnishings, fine fabrics, and beautiful artwork. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the hotel’s serene garden or the iconic Parisian skyline. Fun fact, the flower arranging studio behind the scenes at Le Bristol, arranges its floral arrangements to match the color palette of each room. Plus, Michelin-starred Epicure elevates breakfast to next-level (included, as always, with my bookings).

While in Paris we enjoyed a fantastic pastry making class at Cordon Bleu - a totally delicious treat, and a stunning ride down the Seine on a gorgeous boat with a private dinner. Such fun for a group traveling together!

If you haven't experienced the train between Paris and London, it's so easy at around 2 hours (pro tip: if going from Paris to London, make sure to scan your VAT rebate form at Gard du Nord before leaving the EU for your tax refund on purchases).

Ahhh, London! So hip. So beautiful. Your stay at The Lanesborough is like being in an English country manor in the heart of the city. Built in 1719 (pre Buckingham Palace!), The Lanesborough has a rich history that adds to its allure. Once a private hospital, the hotel has been meticulously restored to preserve its historic features while infusing contemporary comforts. Its grand façade and opulent interiors reflect classic British style, inviting guests into a world of luxury from the moment they arrive.

The Lanesborough offers an array of elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each designed with a unique touch. The interiors are adorned with exquisite fabrics, antique furnishings, and stunning artwork, creating an ambiance of refined comfort. Many rooms feature breathtaking views of Hyde Park. The personalized butler service ensures that every need is catered to, allowing guests to fully relax and enjoy their stay.

One of our fantastic partners in London arranged a glass top, black cab tour. This is such a fun arrival day activity. You'll get the lay of the land with an amazing guide. Fun stops to jump out along the way and really learn an overview of the history and culture of this fantastic city.

After our trip ended, I stayed in London for an additional two nights and experienced two more incredible properties and visited over a dozen more. Stay tuned for my next email to you highlighting my London properties round-up!