Hot Hotels
The world’s best places to stay. This month we’re in the UK and Saudi Arabia
[ LONDON ] Suite dreams
Make yourself at home this month at The Plaza on the River, the five star, all-suite residence hotel that occupies the upper floors of Park Plaza Riverbank, on London’s Albert Embankment. Though they primarily accommodate wealthy business contractors – the offices of Cap-Gemini, Ernst & Young and MI5 are all close by – these apartments also suit well-heeled families. They all come with a high-tech kitchenette, a washing machine and room service. Staff can also provide groceries. Add flatscreen entertainment systems and stunning views of Westminster and you’ll never leave your room. Alex Rayner
Plaza on the River, 18 Albert Embankment, +44 (0)20 7769 2525, www.plazaontheriver.co.uk
[ RIYADH ] Staying power
In a city as startlingly new as Riyadh, it’s nice to stay in a hotel that has a bit of a track record. The Sheraton Riyadh Hotel & Towers has welcomed guests for over 20 years, which is an age in the life of the ever-expanding Saudi capital. Just to the north west of the Kingdom Centre tower, and within easy reach of the financial district, it pairs impeccable international standards of luxury with an Arabian twist, offering a comfortable, secure and peaceful base for any visitor. Expect multi-lingual staff, a great coffee lounge, business facilities, a cigar shop, a fully equipped fitness centre, a swimming pool, and highly knowledgeable concierges. Breakfast is sumptuous, and for other meals, guests can dine at their international restaurant, Al-Bustan, or at their Italian trattoria, La Piazza. With such high levels of service, we’re sure we’ll be reprinting such plaudits in the decades to come. AR
Sheraton Riyadh Hotel & Towers, King Fahad Rad, PO Box 90807, Riyadh, + 996 1 454 3300, www.sheraton.com/riyadh
[ BIRMINGHAM ] Above, centre
Having the whole of Birmingham at your feet is far more desirable than it sounds. The Radisson SAS is inside a striking new 39-storey tower, just metres from the recently redeveloped city centre. The shopping’s fantastic, the cultural attractions are top-notch, with two London-beating concert halls, and the business opportunities are unlimited – you’re at the heart of Britain’s second-biggest city and a short train ride from the National Exhibition Centre (there’s a business centre with dedicated host if you want to hold a conference of your own). Everything is as stylish as you’d expect from a Radisson SAS, with a funky lobby bar, 18th floor spa, and contemporary designer rooms. Lee Cheshire
Diamond Club members can earn 1,000 destinations miles per night at this hotel, up to a maximum of 3,000 destinations miles per stay. See www.flybmi.com/diamondclub for details and to book online
