Grand Hotels of the world looks a host of leading establishments from the fabulous Claridge’s in London’s Mayfair and the luxurious St Regis New York, to the chic Splendido in Portofino and the timeless Villa Serbelloni on the shores of Lake Como, this book tells the fascinating stories of some of the world’s finest architectural gems and the famous guests to have sashayed through their storied corridors.
Through exquisite photography and detailed descriptions, we are given a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the lavish worlds these historic establishments conceal. This book offers the opportunity to picture yourself in these world famous locations.
Unlike Grand Hotel, the 1920s novel by Vikki Baum, Grand Hotels of the World contains superb photographs of stylish interiors.
The Mamounia
One of the grandest hotels in the world is the Mamounia in Marrakech. The epitome of stylish staying it has been inspirational to many as different as Winston Churchill and Paul McCartney. One of the first albums I bought was “Band on the run” which features the song “Mamunia”, released by Wings in 1973 . Paul & Linda wrote the song while they were staying there. Churchill was a bit of a regular – in 1935 he wrote to Clemmie “This is a wonderful place, and the hotel is one of the best I have ever used”. Be careful not confuse Mamounia and Mamuniyeh, which is a samll city in Iran. It is not famous for its hospitality.
