the Cadogan, a Belmond Hotel

After two nights in the English countryside, I made my way into London. I was able to spend one night at the Cadogan, a Belmond Hotel, centrally located in Chelsea and close to incredible shopping in Knightsbridge. 

From the moment I stepped foot inside the Cadogan I felt like I was in my home away from home. The lobby is a cozy environment with a roaring fireplace to warm guests on arrival. The Cadogan reopened in 2019 after an extensive restoration of the heritage building, which dates back to 1887. Featuring two dining outlets, LaLee and an elegant tea lounge, the Cadogan is a bit of an escape from the hustle and bustle of central London. 

Guests of the Cadogan can enjoy access to Cadogan Place Gardens, a private garden space right across the street. 

My room was spacious and comfortable and I was thrilled to see a luxurious bathroom to relax in after a day exploring. 

Who is the Cadogan good for? In my opinion, couples, single travelers, and families alike will be happy staying in the truly British space!

Interested in the Cadogan? When you book via Jessica Drew Travel you receive the following perks during your stay:

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

  • Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom

  • $100USD equivalent in local currency Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

  • Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Heckfield Place

I recently traveled to London for my agency’s annual conference where I was able to meet with colleagues and partners from the across the globe. Before the event, I stayed at Heckfield Place, located about an hour outside of London in Hampshire. The main building of Heckfield Place is a Georgian Estate, which has been lovingly restored and turned into an incredible place to gather during your stay. There are also a few rooms on the second floor of the main building, and they are beautiful (as are the other accommodations). 

Set on 400 acres of lush gardens, woodlands and meadows, I was able to get outside and explore the property while attempting to get over my jet-lag. Depending on the season, activities include discovering the gardens, visiting the working farm, taking a picnic outdoors, a home farm cooking experience for lunch, cycling and hiking, fishing, boating on the lower lake, falconry, forest bathing walk (which I have done and it’s incredibly peaceful), yoga, cocktail masterclasses, wine tasting, and more.

During my time at Heckfield I was able to enjoy meals at all the dining outlets, including Marle, Hearth, the Moon Bar, and room service. Complimentary cake and tea is served in the Moon Bar daily from 3:30 - 5pm, and it is definitely worth a visit! 

I was also able to enjoy the newly opened spa, The Bothy. I have been lucky enough to visit many spas, and The Bothy truly blew me away. I would have spent all day in the serene setting if possible! 

I think Heckfield Place is a great option for couples, single travelers, and families alike. 

Interested in visiting Heckfield Place? When you book via Jessica Drew Travel you receive the following perks during your stay:

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

  • Daily Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom 

  • $100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

  • Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Palm Heights

Grand Cayman is well-known for its pristine beaches with blue and turquoise water and an amazing dining scene. Recently, Palm Heights has been making a splash in the luxury travel world. A boutique resort with 52 suites, Palm Heights combines retro European vibes and top-notch service, making for an unforgettable stay.  

palm heights

I recently returned from four nights at Palm Heights and let me tell you, it lives up to the hype! We picked Grand Cayman for a number of reasons, including the easy flight (just over 2 hours from Charlotte) luxury accommodation options, beautiful beaches and water, and great dining scene.

During our stay at Palm Heights, we enjoyed all their dining outlets (including the ridiculously fun Mambo Italiano, a special event every Saturday night at Paradise Pizza), ranging from Japanese, Caribbean, and Mediterranean. I also visited the newly opened spa, the Garden Club, for a massage and a facial. The wellness options at Palm Heights are extensive, including daily exercise classes at their state-of-the art fitness center.

We ventured off-property for a boat day to get out and explore the area. During our time on the water, we stopped at Starfish Point and got in the water with a few “friendly” stingrays at another spot. The water was a little choppy so we didn’t make it to Stingray City, which is a very popular stop to get in and swim with stingrays.

While we did see a few families during our stay, I think Palm Heights is best suited for couples or a friend’s getaway. There is also a Ritz-Carlton and the Kimpton Seafire in Grand Cayman, both of which are fantastic for families.

Interested in visiting Palm Heights? When you book via Jessica Drew Travel you receive the following perks during your stay:

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

  • Daily breakfast credit for up to two guests per bedroom (value of up to $100 per day, per bedroom)

  • $100USD Resort credit to be utilized during stay 

  • Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Client Review:

“Palm Heights was such a special place! It was immediately obvious because so many guests were discussing how they had been there multiples times. The rooms were perfect, the food was amazing, and the overall ambience was just unbeatable! My mom and I love to travel, and this was one of our favorite spots for several reasons. We thought the size of the resort was not overwhelming, the food on property was delicious, and the service was amazing. The fact that it was right near the airport was also a huge plus!”

Holiday Gift Guide 2022

Away Suitcase - the Bigger Carry-On - my favorite carry-on for shorter flights, this bag fits so much and is easy to move throughout the airport!

Veken Packing Cubes - I used these for the first time on my trip to Italy and Greece this summer and now understand the hype. For longer trips these packing cubes will help keep you organized!

Truffle Clarity Jetset Case - If you’re a skin care junkie like me, having travel size toiletries organized during long flights is a must. I’ve used this TSA approved case for years and am still a huge fan!

Lo & Sons O.G. 2 Carry-On - Another tried and true purchase, the Lo & Sons O.G. 2 Carry-On is perfect for longer plane rides. With multiple compartments you’ll stay organized!

Apple AirTag - A new addition to the travel scene, the Apple AirTags help track your bags if you decide to check them for a flight. With air travel at a high, you can never be too prepared!

Tatcha Dewy Skin Essentials Set - While a few airports in Europe are phasing out the requirement for smaller liquids, I still plan on packing light when it comes to toiletries. Tatcha offers a wide range of travel-size options to keep your skincare regime going while traveling!

Cuyana Alpaca Scarf - Cuyana mission is “Fewer Better Things,” and frankly that’s something I aim to take into 2023. I love this alpaca scarf for travel; it’s light enough to pack but definitely keeps you warm when needed.

Moleskin Journal - Travel is all about creating memories, so why not write them down as you go? I’ve used a Moleskin journal for as long as I can remember, even journaling during my trip to Botswana and Rwanda in 2021. I now look back on those entries with great fondness!