Author: Charlotte Gill

Orlando

Posted on by Charlotte Gill

It was 1965 when Walt Disney announced his plans for the Magic Kingdom, and he chose Orlando over candidates such as Miami because its inland location was protected from hurricanes. The decision has proved the most pivotal in Orlando’s history; today this is the most concentrated collection of theme parks in the world and one of the most visited tourist destinations.

The conglomeration of attractions has also generated a unique technological market that has also helped Orlando to become a leader in industry; digital media, software and aviation are three areas in which it is particularly strong. There are two million people in the wider metropolitan area and many of them work for market-leading corporations. Visitors are often surprised to discover a sophisticated city centre, yet Orlando is far more than Las Vegas for the kids; beyond the costumes and cartoon characters there’s a real urban soul.

Where to stay
Most family hotels tend to be family-oriented; the local Radisson and Embassy Suites are two of those better equipped for business travellers. The Ritz Carlton, however, is perhaps the perfect resort, providing great luxury away from the rest of the city circus.

Where to eat
Most of the best restaurants are in the theme parks themselves; Mikado Japanese Steakhouse is an exception to the rule, serving traditional Asian treats in exceptional style; Bubbalou’s Bodacious BBQ, also downtown, surprises and delights with both the quality and quantity of food on offer.

What to see
Disney World and Universal Studios are the two biggest theme parks, though new kid Wizarding World of Harry Potter could well prove a serious rival. There are plenty of others, however – Busch Gardens and Discovery Cove are more sedate, back-to-nature parks. The Orlando Museum of Art is a fascinating gallery for those that prefer more high-brow entertainment.

Stockholm

Posted on by Charlotte Gill

This 14 island metropolis is a stunning blend of modernity and antiquity. The cobbled streets of Gamla Stan Old Town are the perfect counterpoint the contemporary Jugend and Art Nouveau influences evident in the city hall and central library. Stockholm Palace is still home to the Swedish monarch and royal family, yet it’s the stunning Riksdag building – home to the Swedish Parliament – that almost steals the show.

The intricate streets and alleys are fantastic for rambling exploration but try climbing out of them for a while to get a wider view of the city. The crystal blue waters that surround the archipelago give way to the velvet green spaces of the numerous city parks and the deep red terracotta of the Old Town buildings, making for one of the most spectacularly colourful cityscapes in the world. Throw in some great food, superb nightlife and some of the most contented citizens you’re ever likely to meet and you’ll soon see why Stockholm gets rave reviews.

Where to stay
The Stockholm Hilton and Sheraton set high standards for both service and comfort, while the Radisson SAS “Royal Viking” has a more local theme. If you prefer a more personal boutique then try the 19th century Hotel Stureplan for an atmospheric hotel experience.

Where to eat
Combine traditional smörgåsbord with an open-air museum and views of the city at Sollidens Restaurant; or else treat yourself to some fantastic fresh Scandinavian seafood at Wendholm’s Fisk.

What to see
The full circle panoramic views of the city from the top of the City Hall tower are well worth the effort it takes to climb. The Wasa museum houses the only completely preserved 17th century warship in the world. The Riddarholm Church is one of Stockholm’s most iconic landmarks.

Glasgow

Posted on by Charlotte Gill

The story of Glasgow is familiar, at least; an industrial-era metropolis that fell upon hard times after the war and has reinvented itself during the later twentieth century with a series of urban regeneration projects.

But that would do the city an injustice; Glasgow’s soul has always run much deeper than its dockyards. Adam Smith considered the university superior to Oxford and the accumulated wealth of ‘The Second City of the British Empire’ is a testament to it’s forward-thinking nature.

The people have lost none of their sharp wit and sense of style, even while pursuing such diverse interests as curling, football, ballet and opera, and today it is bursting with edgy sophistication as it vies with Edinburgh for the title of Scottish capital of culture. The black humour that inspired the likes of Billy Connelly is evident everywhere, from the blunt exhibitions in galleries and museums to the surreal comments of the barman as he serves your drinks in one of the city’s funky, retro bars.

Where to stay
One Devonshire Gardens is housed in a beautiful preserved merchant palace built at the height of the city’s golden age and is worth a trip to Glasgow in itself. The Brunswick Hotel is clean, quiet and friendly and provides everything you need for a business visit.

Where to eat
Sister’s Restaurant on Kelvingrove Street serves a superb Scottish seafood menu that his the spot both at lunch and dinner. Guy’s Restaurant and Bar has something for everybody and chef that takes a personal interest in his customers.

What to see
The City Chambers and Glasgow Cathedral are both fine examples of Glasgow’s heritage. The Glasgow School of Art not only houses a world class collection but boasts some of the most influential Art Nouveau architecture of the early twentieth century.

Delhi

Posted on by Charlotte Gill

From the moment you step off the plane to the moment you lay down to sleep, Delhi is right in your face; it’s like a four-dimensional Jackson Pollock that’ll make you rue the day you were born with just a single set of eyes. Prayer calls drift above the yodelling cries of market hawkers and the staccato buzz of traffic horns, while the rich scent of subtle spices drift in invisible clouds on the evening breeze.

Delhi is in the detail; it’s in suicidal rickshaw pedallers that dust off in the middle of an impossibly busy road; it’s in the curious aristocrats photographing travellers amid the apparently inconsequential magnificence of the Red Fort; it’s in the impossible familiarity of individual merchants in a sprawling spice market that stretches beyond the edge of vision. You may arrive with an itinerary, but Delhi soon takes over, and your most treasured possessions when you leave won’t be your holiday snaps but the countless anecdotal encounters that would be impossible in any other city.

Where to stay
The Taj Mahal Hotel can make you feel like an imperial prince; the Wood Castle is a more personal and understated option that nonetheless has spacious, modern rooms just five minutes from the metro.

Where to eat
The food at Bukhara is so good that Bill Clinton once chose to stay at the adjoining Maurya Sheraton because of the restaurant. Masala Art is another dazzling venue that hosts many of Delhi’s elite on a regular basis.

What to see
The Old Red Fort, New India Gate and Old Jama Masjid mosque are all stunning attractions; for a real taste of Delhi, however, head to the Old Spice Market by rickshaw. The view from the rooftops in particular is one of the most memorable you’ll ever see.

Bath

Posted on by Charlotte Gill

The first view of Bath from the top of the emerald valley in which it sits is one that lives long in the memory; perfectly preserved, it looks almost like a museum model of a sixteenth century settlement. There’s been a city here since AD 43 and the ornate stone architecture amid the leafy green surrounding hills could almost convince you that little has changed since.

Walking beside the river in summer is a particular joy and you can still explore the Roman Baths or the old Bath Abbey. Yet some of Bath’s best features are its humble yet plentiful old-school alehouses; there are centuries of memorabilia on the walls of many of these cosy taverns, while the beers themselves aren’t bad either. The city’s entire population could fit snugly into a suburb of London and the friendly small town atmosphere is part of the charm; on lazy Sunday afternoons it can feel like time has stopped and you’ll probably wish it could.

Where to stay
The Apsley House Hotel is a quintessentially English B&B in a country manor that is nevertheless convenient for the city centre. The Bath Priory also has plenty of character and comes complete with an excellent in-house restaurant.

Where to eat
The best restaurants tend to be by the river; Bath is small enough that you can find them all by foot. Same Same But Different has a varied menu with excellent food, though can get very busy. Enzo is a popular Italian and Yak Yeti Yak is recommended for its Nepalese dishes.

What to see
The Roman Baths and nearby Stonehenge are the most popular local landmarks. Alternatively, try the Bizarre Bath tour for an alternative and humorous take on this stunning city.

Copenhagen

Posted on by Charlotte Gill

There’s been a silent revolution in Copenhagen over the last few decades. Long seen as a peaceful, pleasant city, since the 1990s it has increasingly begun to express itself as one of Europe’s leading cultural centres.

Until recently its citizens would eat out only on special occasions, but they can now dine in some of the best restaurants in the world; indeed, Noma has replaced El Bulli as the world’s number one on the 2010 San Pellegrino list. There’s also a brand new opera house and a host of other great venues, including the popular and picturesque open air Tivoli, helping the city to attract an increasing portion of the world’s top stars across classical and contemporary genres.

The Danes are certainly enjoying the urban renaissance and Copenhagen consistently tops liveability polls as Europe’s best city. There’s a thriving art scene, a booming local economy and some of the best nightlife you’re ever likely to experience.

Where to stay
The Nimb and AXEL hotels are both excellent choices with reputations for great services to go with four-star facilities. If you’re arriving late or have to get away early then the Hilton Copenhagen is a great choice close to the airport.

Where to eat
The remarkable Noma has gained international recognition recently. Formel B houses two top chefs and is another great venue serving only the freshest of fine foods. Geranium is a former Danish restaurant of the year that has some delightful seafood on an international menu.

What to see
Tivoli is a cross between botanical garden and pleasure park and particularly comes alive when there’s music playing in the open air arena. The old Citadel is an architectural splendour, while both the National Museum and the Museum of Danish Resistances have some fascinating exhibitions.

Wallis and Futuna

Posted on by Charlotte Gill

If asked to put a pin in a globe to mark the location of Wallis and Futuna, most people wouldn’t even know which hemisphere to go for, let alone which ocean. That’s just fine with them; pleasantly adrift amidst a medley of Polynesian islands, the twin French collectives seem happy enough to keep it that way. Clear, tranquil lakes; perfect yet deserted beaches; graceful old churches beside Samoan and Tongan ruins – why spread the word when you can keep it all for yourself?

First discovered by the Dutch and English it was France that eventually settled the small archipelago consisting of three main islands and around twenty subsidiaries. After some unrest, the three native kings signed treaties in the mid 19th century acknowledging French governance. There have been some minor technical modifications to the relationship since but, despite only seven percent of the population speaking French as a first language, the three kingdoms seem content to remain under European rule.

Wallis is where most business is conducted, with Futuna more open and laid back; the numerous smaller islands remain largely uninhabited and are great places for picnics or afternoon strolls. In fact, much of the collective has the feel of virgin territory; 80 percent of the population make their living from agriculture on islands that are largely untouched by urban influences. Those areas which have been developed are intriguing blends of indigenous roots and European flourishes; the cuisine has a strong Gallic taste but the islands’ arts and crafts draw primarily from Fiji and Samoa.

Getting there
There are no regular ferries and air connections are limited to New Caledonia and Fiji; if flying in from further afield you’ll have to change at one of these.

Getting around
There’s no public transport on either island; if you want to get around you’ll need to drive. Car rental on Wallis requires a permit, on Futuna things are very informal and people will rarely care about either licence or insurance.

Local information
Language(s): Wallisian, Futunan, French.
Time: UTC + 12
Climate: Tropical monsoon; hot and wet between November and April, cool and dry from May to October. Average temperature 27°C, annual rainfall 2,500mm a year (predominantly during summer months).
Currency: CFP Franc (XPF)
Business etiquette: International business meetings are likely to be conducted in French, though French is a second language for most. Business is often conducted very informally. You may wish to wear a suit to a first meeting but this is often not necessary thereafter. Verbal promises should be treated like contracts, particularly on Futuna.
Tipping: Tipping is not widely practised.
Duty free: 200 cigarettes, 100 cigars; 2l wine; 1 bottle liquor; 2 bottles of whisky.
Safety: There is a very low threat of crime.
Laws: All islands use the French legal system and laws are comparable to France.
Healthcare: Vaccinations required for Typhoid and Tetanus. Mains water is drinkable on Wallis but not Futuna. There is a hospital on Wallis and one of Futuna. Though the islands are technically French territories EHIC cards are not valid. Health insurance is advisable.
Socket type: Type A

Baton Rouge

Posted on by Charlotte Gill

There’s a friendly student atmosphere to this sleepy Sun Belt city filled with laid back Cajun joie de vivre. Far removed from the charged frenzy of New York or the ostentation of Los Angeles, the subtropical warmth has bred a laid back people who deliver authentic Louisiana at every turn.

Lying around 75 miles north-west of New Orleans, Baton Rouge is also the state capital and the 34-story art deco capitol building dominates the horizon. But the city is just as notable for its universities, one of which is the largest Afro-American institution in the country, and students comprise 20 percent of the population. It’s academic credentials and position at the heart of historical plantation country make this a great place to look deeper into black history and there are several interesting museums to explore.

Where to stay
The main choice for business stays is the Hilton, which is well-equipped with a central location. Otherwise there are a good number of comfortable mid-range hotels such as the Drury Inn & Suites, Residence Inn, Holiday Inn and Homewood Suites.

Where to eat
Baton Rouge has some great Cajun and Creole offerings, such as Juban’s Restaurant or Chimes Restaurant and Tap Room, both of which score highly for food, service and ambience and become lively bars late in the evening. Other popular choices are Izzo’s Illegal Burrito for Mexican and Maison Lacour for French cuisine.

What to see
Baton Rouge Zoo, with nearly 1,000 species, is well worth a visit. The Magnolia Mound Plantation, dating back to the 18th century, offers an insight into Louisiana’s past. There are some interesting shows on at the Shaw Centre for the Arts, while the Old State Capitol was once described as the “ugliest thing on the Mississippi” but houses a fascinating museum of American politics.

Colombo

Posted on by Charlotte Gill

Neighbourhood kids play street cricket with a few twigs and rounded stone, stopping only to gape at the classic Mercedes that rolls silently past or to ask if you want to join them. Welcome to Colombo, a dash of spice on the margins of Sri Lanka’s misty green interior, a chaotic collage of colours and cultures, new and old.

The relentless traffic and hubbub of hawkers and traders can be overwhelming at first, but given a chance to charm the city can dazzle with its brilliant colonial facades which marry three generations of European investment, unique and eclectic markets and white sands looking out into the warm Indian Ocean.

There’s been a trading post at Colombo for 2,000 years, though it only became the capital of this decidedly rural nation with the advent of British rule in 1815. Today, nearly a third of Sri Lanka lives in the wide metropolitan area, making it in every way the heartbeat of the nation.

Where to stay
The Colombo Hilton is modern, clean and friendly. The Cinnamon Grand is excellent, so packed full of facilities for work, health and entertainment that you’ll wonder if it’s necessary to leave. More convenient for the airport than the city, the Wallawwa Boutique oozes style and sophistication.

Where to eat
Barefoot Garden Cafe is a trendy hangout that serves an Italian-Sri Lankan hybrid menu, popular with many of the local illuminati. Lagoon, in the Cinnamon Grand, is a fantastic seafood speciality restaurant that serves fresh catch every day.

What to see
Immerse yourself in local handicrafts and culture at Laksala. Hire a van and explore the coast to the south along the Galle Road; there’s a great old temple at Kalutara. The Elephant Orphanage at Pinnewela is also just a short trip out of the city.

Zambia

Posted on by Charlotte Gill

The African continent comes in many shades and textures, but few feel more authentic than those boasted by the richly diverse Zambian landscape. Nomadic tribes have wandered its landlocked plains for millennia, but only since the 18th century has it really been settled; first by regional tribes migrating from other areas of Africa and then by the English a century later.

The country derives its name from the mighty Zambezi river, a fisherman’s delight home to some of the most prized freshwater species in the world, not to mention the majestic Victoria falls on the border with Zimbabwe – comparable with Niagara and Iguazu and by some measures the largest in the world. But it is on the fertile flood plains to the north and in the South Luangwa National Park that the nation’s real treasures are found; its diverse and wondrous wildlife that includes elephants, hippos, leopards and more species of birds than you could ever hope to see.

Towns and cities are few and far between, though modernisation and urbanisation are already apace in what is a relatively young democracy. This need not spoil anything; the government has long recognised the importance of its breathtaking wilderness areas and over a third of the country is protected as national park. Gemstone mining and hydro-power promise to be cornerstones of a developing economy and, as investment opportunities continue to grow, Zambia is grasping the future with two hands.

Getting there
Most international flights land in Lusaka, though there are a few available to Livingstone, Mfuwe and Ndola. Border crossings to all neighbours except Mozambique are possible by bus; borders are open between 6am and 6pm.

Getting around
Trains are extremely limited and intercity bus travel can be tedious and uncomfortable. Driving is an option; four-wheel drive vehicles should be preferred. Domestic air travel is by far the most convenient and comfortable method of intercity travel.

Local information
Language(s): English; several regional languages are also recognised.
Time: UTC+2
Climate: Tropical monsoon. Hot, wet summers; warm dry winters. Temperature: Max 31°C (October), Min 10°C (July). Rainfall: Max 230mm (December), Min: 0mm (June-August)
Currency: Zambian kwacha (ZMK)
Business etiquette: English is widely used in business meetings. Standards of dress for Zambian businessmen may vary but formal wear is generally expected and suits should be worn to the first meeting at least.
Tipping: Tipping is technically illegal but often expected anyway. 10 percen is a good rule of thumb but its worth checking locally.
Duty free: 400 cigarettes or 500g tobacco; 2.5l beer, wine or spirits.
Safety: Avoid the border areas with Congo and Angola because of landmines.
Laws: Passport and visa should be carried at all times.
Healthcare: Vaccinations required for diphtheria, hepatitis A, malaria, tetanus and typhoid. Boil or sterilise water before drinking. Health insurance is essential and should include emergency evacuation/repatriation; health services in rural areas are largely non-existent.
Socket type: Type C, Type D

Savannah

Posted on by Charlotte Gill

Savannah’s heyday at the height of the cotton trade has long since past, but the Victorian mansions and grand, open squares are a lasting testament to the riches of yore. The port retains its significance as one of America’s busiest, and there’s still a busy manufacturing sector attached, but Savannah is more renowned for its hospitality than anything else, known as the “Hostess City of the South”.

The architectural heritage of the historic centre is preserved within one of the country’s largest National Historic Landmark Districts and attracts millions of visitors each year. It’s a great base for exploring a host of small, offshore islands and the Savannah Riverfront, populated by a series of delightful villages and townships that hark bark to a simpler time long past. Exploring the quiet and quaint hidden trails around the city can make you feel unusually light, as if an imaginary weight has been lifted from your shoulders.

Where to stay
The Mansion on Forsyth Park is visually stunning, with fantastic character on the inside as well and service to match. The River Street Inn also boasts a great deal of historic charm whilst remaining a comfortable and convenient retreat.

Where to eat
Cha Bella on East Broad Street is a top choice for the beautifully constructed organic dishes. Garibaldi is a local foodie favourite for a creative menu that has won numerous local and international awards.

What to see
The first African Baptist Church was an integral part of the underground railway and is a moving insight into the plight of escaped slaves. The magnificent St. John the Baptist Cathedral is the oldest Roman Catholic church in Georgia. Local tour guides offer historic, ghost and black history tours by foot, bike of bus; these can be the best way to explore Savannah.

Charleston

Posted on by Charlotte Gill

Charleston, often called the Holy City because of the churches and cathedrals that dominate its skyline, is the kind of well-mannered, seemly charmer that your parents would just love you to bring home. Romance seeps from the city’s antebellum architecture and the reputation for hospitality and unerring politeness is well-deserved. This is a city of beautiful scented flowers, cobbled streets and classical beauty, where summer seems to bring a fixed, easy smile.

Don’t be fooled by stereotypes of the conservative south, either; Charleston was the first of America’s original thirteen cities to offer religious tolerance and while it’s no San Francisco it remains one of the most liberal and progressive cities in the region. It is also the site of the first liveability court in the country and there are several spots like the Old City Market where the old West African Gullah culture and dialect still retain a tangible presence.

Where to stay
The Restoration on King is set in a beautifully crafted new building and has a roof terrace with superb panoramic views of the city skyline. The Wentworth provides extremely spacious rooms with a range of facilities including an excellent entertainment system.

Where to eat
Station 22 is the oldest restaurant on Sullivan’s Island and the black and white photographic monument on the wall is an atmospheric record of local history. Poogan’s Porch is a popular choice for southern cuisine; Slightly North of Broad has a more ambitious menu and the open kitchen and dining area makes for a buzzing ambience.

What to see
There are some great historical vessels in Charleston, like The Schooner Pride and USS Yorktown at Patriot’s Point; you can spend a day exploring old naval vessels alone. If you fancy an adrenaline shot afterwards, try a high speed boat tour across the harbour.