Arsip Tag: traveller

Best Brazil Shopping, Sao Paulo What to Wear When You’re There

Sao Paulo What to Wear When You’re There

Sao Paulo
What to Wear When You’re There
Sao Paolo sky line

Brazil Trip –
Part 1  
Where? Sao Paulo, Brazil
When? Spring 2013
Why? In+Addition Pr took British press and bloggers on a press trip to Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais to discover the delights of Brazillian fashion. Sao Paulo is the largest city in Brazil and has it’s own fashion week.
Companions? Katrina and Luisa from In+Addition PR, Kristin Theclotheswhisperer.co.uk, Holly from Marie Claire, Naomi from Vogue and me TheStyleTraveller.com
A huge thanks to? The trip was in partnership with ABIT (The Brazilian Textile and Apparel Industry Association) and The Fasano Hotel Group
When to visit? Brazil is so vast that the weather systems really vary dependant on where you’re going. Sao Paulo has a sub tropical / equatorial climate, which means its hot most of the year but can occasionally get cold (as in 10 degrees celsius) in the winter, it does rain a lot though.
Me and the girls at Brazilian designer, Patricia Bonaldi’s fashion show


Packing and What to Wear When You’re There – Sao Paulo


Backstage at the Patricia Bonaldi AW13 fashion show
Street Style
Sao Paulo fashion is all about glamour and glitz. Designer labels rule supreme. Despite the hot weather this is a city with high octane style, looking perfectly groomed is key. This street style section shows you how the Paulista’s (and the press trip girls) dress from night to day in Brazil’s fashion capital.
If you want to wear Brazillian labels you can’t go wrong with a gorgeous pair of Alexandre Birman heels and a Patricia Bonaldi box clutch bag, the perfect accessories for a night out partying in Sao Paulo.
Costanza Pascolato – a former editor of Vogue Brazil,  Katrina from In+Addition and Cristiana Arcangeli, founder of BeautyIn a sponsor of London Fashion Week
Luisa dresses down her Pat Bo sequin skirt with denim
Kat wearing Toujouri trousers
Paula from Adriana Degreas shows us how to wear beach style
Naomi in vintage Rajesthani skirt
Holly sitting pretty in the garden
Printed silk jumpsuits are great for workwear in the hot weather
Ponto Zero designer Cynthia Hayashi
Trend T designer Renan Serrano
Looking chic in black at the AUA store

Brazil Traveller Review, Sao Paulo Sleeping and After Dark

Sao Paulo Sleeping and After Dark

Sao Paulo
Sleeping and After Dark
The gateway to Disco!
Night life is Sao Paulo is fun, but be warned it’s very expensive! Be prepared to part with your cash if you want to go to all the latest hang outs. What to wear? The Paulista’s love their designer labels, flash cars, hand bags and heels. If you want to hang out in Sao Paulo make sure you look like you’re ready to party with the jet-set.
The girls get cosy with rainbow cat before a night out Sao Paolo style
Paulista’s love sushi and one of Sao Paulo’s best sushi restaurants is Jam. It’s also convieniently located near the Patricia Bonaldi store, so it’s a good place for lunch if you’re shopping on Rua Oscar Freire.
The sushi bar at Jam
For a more reasonably priced lunch option near Rua Oscar Freire head to Chez Lorena for a delicious international menu.
Light spacious interior at Chez Lorena bistro
Sao Paulo’s restaurant of the moment, Dom
Owned by chef Alex Atala, Dom has been voted the 6th best restaurant in the world. It’s a place to see and be seen, whilst grazing on contemporary Brazilian cuisine like you’ve never tried before!
Numero Bar is one of Sao Paulo’s hippest bars of the moment. It’s tricky to get in so make sure you reserve a table. Unfortunately there is a minimum spend, but it’s worth going just to check out the slick surreal interior, which visually draws your eye (past the lounging footballers, celebs and models), to the lush vertical garden at the back of the bar.
Me at Disco!
The coolest night club in Sao Paolo is Disco! Playing a mix of Electro house and pop, the crowd comprises of Sao Paolo’s rich kids, socialites and a few hipster types. It’s a super fun night but be warned, it can cost about £70 to get in, make sure you get on that guest list!
Where to Stay – Sao Paolo
We stayed at the beautiful boutique Hotel Fasano
This sleek city bolt hole is a style travellers dream. With interiors fresh off the pages of Wallpaper Magazine, every single teak walled, designer furniture strewn corner of this hotel has been designed to within an inch of its life. It oozes 1950’s luxury (I half expected to see Don Draper at reception!) and the jazz bar is one of Sao Paulo’s most exclusive late night VIP haunts. The swimming pool on the top floor boasts spectacular views of the city.
The bar at The Fasano Hotel

Best Brazil SHopp, Review Sao Paulo Shopping

Sao Paulo Shopping

Street graffiti in Vila Madelena (image from TimeOut Sao Paulo)
We were lucky enough to get to spend the day shopping in Sao Paulo. There are three main areas in the city which I would recommend for the intrepid shopper and they are:
Rua Oscar Freire – This is open air shopping at it’s best, think Rodeo Drive in LA, but with a mix of international and Brazilian high street and designer shops. The streets are lined with trees and greenery, the shops are chic and theres a relaxed vibe in the area.
Alexandre Birman is Brazil’s most renowned luxury shoe designer, often described as the Manolo Blahnik of South America. His beautiful, petite flagship store is housed on Rua Oscar Freire. Don’t leave Sao Paulo without a pair. I bought some glam skyscraper stiletto’s and they’re the comfiest heels I own. Love!
Alexandre Birman heels
Schutz shoes is a young, on-trend, Brazilian shoe store. They deliver fast fashion styles at very affordable prices. It is the high street offering of Alexandre Birman’s empire and can also be found around the corner from his mainline store.
Pop colours and kitch styles at Schutz
AW13 Patricia Bonaldi catwalk show
And don’t forget to pop into the Patricia Bonaldi or the Pat Bo (diffusion range) store just off Rua Oscar Freire, especially if you’re looking for a Sao Paulo party outfit.
The designer herself – The beautiful Patricia Bonaldi backstage at her show
JK Iguatemi is Brazil’s most luxurious shopping mall. With wall to wall designer brands, from Prada to Dolce, this airy, light, beautifully designed space offers an air conditioned respite for the serious spenders.
No one knows swimwear, like the Brazillian’s know swimwear! One of the most luxury beachwear labels in the country is Adriana Degreas. Sexy yet elegant, this is the Paulista’s go to designer beach brand. It has a beautiful flag ship store at the JK Iguatemi mall.
Chic white lace beach dress with statement neck piece at Adriana Degreas
The girls get trigger happy at the Adriana Degreas store
Also check out the treasure trove that is the Silvia Furmanovich boutique. Filled to the archived rafters with antique and unique hand made jewellery.
Vila Madalena shot taken from Time Out Sao Paulo
To see the alternative, independent shopping scene in Sao Paulo, head to the boho streets of Vila Madalena. This area is being regenerated and is home to artisan boutiques and Sao Paulo’s up and coming designers.
 
Dramatic views of the city from the JK Iguatemi shopping mall

Brazil Best week Traveller, The Belmond Copacabana Palace Hottest Hotel in Rio

The Belmond Copacabana Palace, The Hottest Hotel in Rio, Brazil

At The Copa, The Belmond Copacabana Palace, The Hottest Hotel in Rio

The Belmond Copacabana Palace, The Hottest Hotel in Rio, Brazil

Where? Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Why? As part of my mini sojourn around South America, the Belmond Group invited me to stay at the splendid Copacabana Palace Hotel whilst visiting Rio de Janeiro. My Journey starts in Brazil and ends in Peru. Stay tuned for regular updates on the trip or head over to my instagram to follow the full trip day by day.
Bonnie Rakhit Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, best hotels Bonnie Rakhit Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, best hotels
The Hotel
The Copacabana Palace Hotel in Rio de Janeiro is one of the most famous hotels in the world. The iconic hotel opened it’s hallowed doors in 1923 and has been one of the most loved and influential properties in tourism ever since. Having been voted the best hotel in South America so many times, even they’ve lost count, I was super excited to stay.
Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil 1950's
The exquisite art deco property lies like a shining beacon on the Copacabana Beach front parade and has seen more celebrities, dignitaries and royalty come through its doors than the hotel would ever giveaway. It’s a truly stunning property, they just don’t build hotels like this anymore.
Above: Original image from the 1950’s outside the hotel and below it still hasn’t lost any of its old school charm
Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil at night
Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, suite bedroom accomodation
The Decor
As you’d imagine in this grand dame, colonial style hotel, the decor throughout is decadent, grand and elegant. The corridors and reception areas are filled with marble floors, whitewashed columns and huge chandeliers hanging from the high vaulted ceilings.

The 239 bedrooms and suites, despite the four poster beds, are a much more homely and cosy affair. Colours are muted and subdued to mimic the natural beach tones of the views through the window, but all modern amenities, such as international adapters, wide screen TV’s, walk-in rain showers and Nespresso coffee machines are provided. All in all it’s safe to say you’ll love the hotel!

Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil art deco grand interiors ball room

Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, best hotels breakfast at Pergola restaurant
Food and Drink
There are three incredible restaurants and two bars to chose from at hotel. Decide between the one Michelin starred Chinese restaurant,  Mee (as overseen by celebrity chef Ken Hom), or opt for traditional, Italian elegance at the world renowned Cipriani’s, but my favourite offering was the newest restaurant at the hotel, Pergula.
With a gorgeous pool view, relaxed Brazilian/international menu, bright, bold-coloured decor and a wonderfully relaxed vibe, this is THE place for Rio’s jet set and hotel guests alike to unwind. Sip caipirinha cocktails and listen to samba and jazz tunes into the evening, it’s Rio’s current haunt to see and be seen.
Pictured above and below: the sumptuous interiors at Pergula and me settling in for breakfast with a pool view
Bonnie Rakhit Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, best hotels breakfast at Pergolabest hotels breakfast
Above: tucking in to the amazing buffet breakfast at Pergula, can anyone tell me the name of this amazing fruit on my plate? And below enjoy exotic dishes like sea urchins (below) alongside more traditional and contemporary meals like burgers or empanadas!
Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, best hotels lunch at Pergola restaurant urchin
Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, ciprianis restaurant, best restaurants
Above: the decadent interiors at Cipriani’s Italian restaurant, which also overlooks the main part of the hotel, the swimming pool.
Bonnie Rakhit Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, best hotels poolside best pools
The Pool
Without a doubt the central hub of this beautiful hotel is the huge (half olympic sized) swimming pool. Chanel Grace Kelly vibes as you lounge around the pool and imagine yourself as one of the many fabulous 1950’s movie stars who frequented the hotel back in the day.
There’s a tanning butler, complimentary towels, water and fruit plates, as well as tantalising mini taster snacks from the facing restaurants for peckish sun bathers. Sun bathing doesn’t get more luxurious than this.
Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil art deco swimming pool
Bonnie Rakhit Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, best hotels poolside best pools coconut
I highly recommend one of the fresh coconuts which have literally been chopped down from the tree that morning. They are also a great natural rehydration source to combat the Rio heat.
Bonnie Rakhit Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, best hotels poolside best pools bahimi
Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, facade
Bonnie Rakhit Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, best hotels poolside best pools bahimi sunbath
Copacabana Beach
Rio is famous for its beautiful people (the self named, Cariocas). And they have a very specific way of life which is all about enjoying yourself and centres mainly around the natural beauty of the beach. Copacabana beach which lies directly opposite the hotel is central to Carioca life.
You’ll see locals and tourists alike enjoying beach life, getting involved in all sorts of sporting activities from swimming, surfing, weight lifting (at the beach stations), running, playing frescobal and volleyball, to simply lying in the sun and chilling out.
The great thing about the Copacabana Palace is they have a designated area on the beach complete with day beds, towels, drinks bar, bats and balls, magazines and even wifi! You literally don’t need to bring anything apart from yourself and you swimsuit!
Bonnie Rakhit Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, agent provocateur bikini
Above me wearing my new season Agent Provocateur bikini, trying to fit in with the locals. Beach bling goes down a treat in Brazil.
Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil art right on copacabana beach flip flops
The hotel is so iconic you can even get Copacabana branded flip flops!
Bonnie Rakhit Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, selaron steps
What to do in Rio?
Rio is without doubt one of my favourite cities in the world, the list of what to do and things to see is endless. Tune in to next weeks blog, for my list of the most instagrammable destinations in Rio, and my Style Traveller edit of the 10 best things to do in Rio.
Bonnie Rakhit Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil, christ the redeemer
A huge thank you to all the lovely staff and amazing PR team at Copacabana Palace for making my stay so memorable.
Room rates at Belmond Copacabana Palace, Rio start from £260 / R$1.085,00 + taxes per night based on two people sharing a City View Room. For hotel reservations please visit Belmond.com or call 0845 0772 222
Next stop Peru!
Bon voyage x
Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, Rio Brazil

Fashion and Style, on a Winter Sun Holiday

Fashion and Style, on a Winter Sun Holiday

Bonnie Rakhit style traveller 10 fun things to do in Bermuda

Fashion – What to Wear on a Winter Sun Holiday

Where? Finding summery outfits for a winter sun holiday can be tricky when you live a country with a cold climate. All the high street shops seem to filled with cosy knitwear and winter coats.
With so many of us opting to catch some rays over xmas vacations, I thought it would be a nice idea to do a little holiday wear fashion shoot on my recent trip to Bermuda. Shot in and around the colourful architecture of St George and using only product which you can buy right now. Here is the Style Traveller Packing Special – What to Wear on a Winter Sun Holiday, a round up of the key pieces, styles and trends to pack for your trip…

Bonnie Rakhit style traveller 10 reasons to go to Bermuda baileys iceream

Having travelled back to back for the last four years, I’ve come to find that are are some styles which are timeless and work from season to season regardless of destination.
Even though I shot this on location in Bermuda, these AW17 beach packing rules apply to any winter sun locations.
Here are some of the key pieces, colours, prints and styles which will instantly update your winter sun wardrobe.
Bonnie rakhit revolve top bermuda
Stripes
Bold, nautical, Breton or candy, there’s just something about stripes which looks so right in the sun. Perhaps it’s the association with the golden age of travel, sailors from a bygone era or just that they do wonders for the figure. Keep in line with this trend and you can’t go wrong.
Bonnie Rakhit style traveller 10 reasons to go to Bermuda
The Floral Wrap Dress
Floral prints are so on point for a sunny destination wardrobe, add that to the universally versatile wrap dress shape and you have a multi functioning outfit which works well for day trips, when worn with trainers and thongs, then simply add some heels and a splash of jewellery and you’re ready for a night out. Go for bold tropical prints if you really want to be on trend this season.
what to pack for a winter sun holiday bonnie rakhit
You’re a Star
One of the biggest print trends this autumn winter are stars, planets and galaxies. Go for micro polka-dot style stars as above or oversized prints like on the bikini below. One thing’s for sure, you’ll look stellar in these outfits!
St george rooftops bermuda
Bonnie rakhit style traveller silk fred tropical jumpsuit
Playsuit and Jumpsuits
Playsuit, jumpsuit, romper, call it what you will, if there was ever an item of clothing made for holidays it’s this. The simple one piece that’s so cool and on trend right now.
Shorts and trouser legs (as lovely as it sounds) stop chaffing between thighs in hot weather (you’ve got to be practical ladies!) They also allow you to jump on that horse, moped, go for a impromptu run (when you’re late for the train), whatever the activity, they are just so much more versatile and flexible than a mini or maxi skirt, yet still look chic. Go for a one coloured piece for a chic look or go all out in this seasons fun, tropical prints like my play suit above. You’re bound to have fun when you’re wearing this, how could you not!
Above and below Bonnie wears playsuit and jumpsuit both by Silk Fred.
bonnie rakhit holiday winter wardrobe silk fred
swimsuit and what to wear in the caribbean bonnie Rakhit
Swimwear Rules
The key piece to look out for this season on the beach is a one-piece swimsuit, the higher cut you dare to go with the leg, the better. What’s great about a one piece is that it hides unwanted tummy curves and accentuates sexy thighs instead. They are super flattering on most body shapes. Opt for classic black suit like I’m wearing above or cut out styles if you want some attention on la plage.
Two piece –  My particular favourite bikini top shape this season is the ruffle, off-the-shoulder top style, it’s so flattering on the upper arms and shows off your collar bone perfectly. For those with a pear shape figure opt for a bright coloured top half and a darker bikini bottom to detract the eye from a heavier bottom half.
what to pack for summer winter sun holiday bonnie rakhit style traveller

Huge thanks to Bermuda Tourism Authority for inviting me to this wonderful part of the world and providing such a beautiful backdrop for the shoot.
Next stop Seville…

fashion traveller best , Your Next Holiday Could Be Sooner

Your Next Holiday Could Be Sooner Than You Think!

Your Next Holiday Could Be Sooner Than You Think! Amex

Your Next Holiday Could Be Sooner Than You Think!

Sponsored post in association with the British Airways American Express® Credit Card
As you must have guessed by now here at The Style Traveller HQ we’re a little bit obsessed with travel. Be it to bask in the sunshine, have some much-needed down time, discover new places or do something more active we are not alone.
The lovely guys at The Culture Trip have been doing their research and they’ve discovered there are four main reasons that people chose their escape: Climate, Relaxation, Adventure and Culture.
With those four incentives in mind, I’ve teamed up with the British Airways American Express Credit Card to give you some serious destination wanderlust.

Amex gstaad avios points winter sun

Bonnie Rakhit Mykonos blues and whites fashion
Destination 1 – Mykonos, Greece

Reason for travel: Climate
Get there with: 20,000 Avios (return from London)*
Best time to go: While the summer season in Mykonos runs from May till September, you can enjoy the warmth on the whitewashed terraces of this spectacular Greek Island all year round. Spend the day at one of its many stylish beach bars such as Scorpios next to Paraga beach, then watch the sun go down from the Old Town. Enjoy a chilled aperitif down at the waterside cafes with the famous Mykonos windmills providing a majestic backdrop

Bonnie Rakhit in Mykonos wearing very.co.uk white lace dress with bougonvillea flowers
Mykonos greek islands fashion shoot Bonnie Rakhit what to wear
Destination 2 – Budapest, Hungary

Reason for travel: Relaxation

Get there with: 15,000 Avios (return from London)*

Best time to go: Budapest is a great summer escape, a beautiful city set around the river and grand palatial architecture. It’s equally beautiful in winter, when it’s romantic and filled with festive spirit. My favourite place to visit in the city, any time of year, is the Szechenyi Baths. Built in 1913, with a famous yellow façade, the spa uses natural, medicinal, hot spring water to re-energise, cleanse and recuperate tired city dwellers and tourists alike.

Budpest Szechenyi Baths relaxation Bonnie Rakhit spa break
Zermatt Bonnie Rakhit ski winter holiday amex avios
Destination 3 – Zermatt, Switzerland

Reason for travel: Adventure

Get there with: 9,000 Avios to get you to Geneva (return from London)*, then it’s a scenic drive to Zermatt

Best time to go: Winter season in Zermatt runs from December through to March. Where better to find your inner action hero than on the slopes of this Alpine resort. Whether you’re a skier, boarder or adrenaline seeker who likes parasailing down the side of a mountain, Zermatt has all your adventurous desires covered.

If after all that excitement, you’re in need of a little off-piste time, enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride around the quaint resort, then indulge in a mug of hot chocolate and a fondue in front of a roaring fire.
Zermatt ski winter holiday amex avios BA
Zermatt Bonnie Rakhit ski winter holiday amex avios BA
Destination 4 – Seville, Spain

Reason for travel: Culture

Get there with: 15,000 Avios (return from London)*

Best time to go: Seville is the cultural heart of Spain. The compact Spanish city of Seville is filled with decorative art and beautiful architecture. During the summer enjoy the views from the chic roof terraces and great al fresco restaurants, which line the pretty streets. Visitors to the city’s most popular attraction, The Alcazar Royal Palace and Gardens, will recognise it as the location of Dorne from the hit TV Series Game Of Thrones.

Seville Palace of Alcazar film location for Game of Thrones Bonnie Rakhit
How you can get away sooner?
With the British Airways American Express Credit Card you can earn Avios as a result of your everyday spending that can be redeemed on reward flights to hundreds of destinations including Mykonos, Zermatt, Seville and Budapest. The more Avios points you earn the more far-flung your next destination can be. There’s no annual fee, you get 1 Avios for every £1 spent and if you spend £1,000 in your first 3 months of Cardmembership you get a welcome bonus of 5,000 Avios*.
“For more information about how your next escape could be sooner than you think visit ba.com/Amex

Seville Palace of Alcazar film location for Game of Thrones Bonnie Rakhit

If all that talk of getting away has fuelled your wanderlust then why not come and join me for some destination inspiration at an exclusive immersive event in London on January 26th. Hosted by Flavourology in partnership with Culture Trip and the British Airways American Express® Credit Card you’ll get a taste of all four destinations I’ve featured in my blog. For more information and tickets click here.
Bon voyage xx
Seville film location for Game of Thrones Bonnie Rakhit
The Legalities

The British Airways American Express® Credit Card Representative 22.9% APR variable.

*Reward flights are subject to availability. Terms, taxes, fees and carrier charges of £35 apply, per person traveling in economy on a return trip to Europe. Applicants must be 18 years old or over. Approval subject to status, and terms and conditions apply. Terms and exclusions apply to the collection and redemption of Avios, and to the welcome bonus. Visit ba.com/amex for more information.
Promoter: American Express Services Europe Limited has its registered office at Belgrave House, 76 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 9AX, United Kingdom. It is registered in England and Wales with Company Number: 1833139 and authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Best Traveller Vienna, Perfect Weekend City Break in Vienna

The Perfect Weekend City Break in Vienna

The-Style-traveller-guide-to-Vienna

The Perfect Weekend City Break in Vienna

Exactly? Ritz Carlton is a hotel brand synonymous with luxury and elegance. So when they invited me to the Austrian capital city of Vienna to do a photo walk with Instagram phenomenon Trey Ratcliff, it was the perfect opportunity for me to revisit the city and learn some photography tips on route.
When? Summer 2017
Best time to go? Vienna is an historic city rich in culture, the arts and music, there’s plenty to see and do regardless of the time of year. I love wandering around the grand boulevards looking up at the regal architecture and perfectly manicured public parks in the summer months. Winter is also incredible because the city is filled with Xmas markets and when it snows it’s truly magical.
The-Style-traveller-guide-to-Vienna-ritz
Where we stayed: The Ritz Carlton Austria
As part of the renowned global hospitality group there’s a certain level of luxury you can expect from Ritz Carlton hotels and the Vienna property certainly lives up to expectations. This palatial building mixes renaissance, gothic and baroque styles effortlessly, the period facade is beautifully restored whilst interiors are updated and modernised. An original frescoed stairwell and chandeliers are happily juxtaposed with warm, minimal, mahogany furnishings. It’s a real case of old meets new and it works.
Ritz carlton vienna
luxury hotels vienna
Original period features are restored and intermixed with modern updated interiors.
Located on the Schubertring in central Vienna it’s the perfect place from which to go and explore this historical city.
ritz-carlton-photo-walk-vienna
Bonnie goes on the city walk with photographer Trey Ratcliff (centre). Trey is doing an ‘80 stays around the world’ tour stopping off in major cities along the way to meet his instagram/facebook followers. In the walks he shares photography tips and hidden gem destinations in each city with the group.
bonnie-rakhit-style-traveller-vienna-rooftop-bars
The Roof Terrace
Bonnie enjoys a chilled glass of champagne in the rooftop bar at the hotel. One of the cities favourite pass times is enjoy sunset drinks with a view. One of the best aerial bars is actually on the seventh floor of the Ritz Carlton hotel. That was lucky!
bonnie-rakhit-style-traveller-vienna-rooftop-bars
Vienna ritz carlton spa
The Spa
Located on the basement floor of this period property is a wonderfully relaxing, luxury spa. Indulge in some pampering treatments from massages to manis or enjoy the jacuzzis and power shower heads in the heated pool.
Vienna-ritz-carlton-spa-style-traveller
Vienna ritz carlton spa massage
The couples treatment room
Ritz-carlton-vienna-breakfast-Bonnie-style-traveller
Eating and Drinking
The hotel offers several dining options from the main restaurant, executive floor dining, roof top bar snacks to District Steakhouse, which serves the best beef dishes in town. In the summer months District has a lovely open air seating area which is perfect for Al Fresco dining. Don’t miss out on the daily ‘apple strudel cutting ceremony’ every afternoon at the hotel at 4pm, it’s something of a Viennese tradition.
Ritz-carlton-vienna-apple-strudel
Above: the historic strudel cutting ceremony
Ritz-carlton-vienna-steak-house-restaurant

Above: Escargot and avocado prawn starters at District, plus the lovely extra touch of my own personalised menu.
Ritz-carlton-vienna-breakfast
Breakfast is a real extravaganza at the Ritz Carlton, you can get everything from pastries, full english, charcuterie to eggs made to your taste, we also went off piste and ordered avocado on toast which appeared on the table within moments. Yum!
Ritz-carlton-vienna-rooftop-bar
The rooftop terrace by night with a view over the Vienna skyline.
bonnie-rakhit-belvedere-palace-vienna
5 things to do in Vienna
There are hundreds of museums, galleries and cultural monuments to visit in Vienna. If you have limited time then I would recommend these 5 fun things to do to a get feel for the city.
1)Visit the Schonbrunn Palace and Gardens, famed for it’s buildings buttery yellow colour and its extensive gardens and land.
2) Have a kiss in front of Gustav Klimt’s famous painting ‘The Kiss’ at The Belvedere Palace Museum.
3) Visit the opera. Whether you visit a free afternoon matinee in one of the many theatres in the city or go all out, for a formal evening performance at the Vienna State Opera, in a city with such an amazing classical music heritage it’s a must do. You can hire ball gowns and historical costume and mask to visit the Royal Opera if that takes you fancy, ask at your hotel concierge for more information.
4) Have cocktails at one of the cities many rooftop bars and watch the sunset over Vienna. See above.
5) Visit the Nach Markt on Monday evening to sample Vienna’s signature dishes and delicious cuisine as you walk round the pretty fairy lit stalls.
belvedere-palace-vienna
The Belvedere Palace houses the world’s largest collection of Gustav Klimt’s works including the infamous painting ‘The Kiss.’
gustav klimt the kiss
belvedere-palace-vienna-art-galleries-style-traveller
belvedere-palace-vienna-best-gallery
bonnie-rakhit-belvedere-palace-vienna
schonbrunn-palace-vienna
Schonbruun Palace famed for its beautiful ochre yellow shade and incredible gardens.
schonbrunn-palace-vienna-The-Style-traveller-bonnie
Above and below Bonnie wears embroidered dress by Needle & Thread and boots by Zara
schonbrunn-palace-vienna
Thanks for a lovely weekend Ritz Carlton, Auf Wiedersehen from Vienna, next stop Santorini…
Bon Voyage x
schonbrunn-palace-vienna-The-Style-traveller-bonnie

Vienna Intro and traveller

Vienna
Intro and What to Wear When You’re There

Where? Vienna, Austria
Exactly? Grand Hotel Wien
Why? On a press trip with jewellery brand Thomas Sabo to see the launch of the new collections.
When? Winter 2011
Treats at the Thomas Sabo party
Best time to go? I’ve been to Vienna in the summer when it’s reached 28 degrees celsius, but my favourite time of year to visit is in December for the Christmas markets. Vienna in the snow is picturesque and incredibly romantic.
Travel companions? I travelled with a group of 15 UK fashion editors and PR’s. But Vienna is the perfect city for romantic weekends away, cultured short breaks with friends or why not take your mum? She’ll love it.
Top tip? No trip to Vienna is complete without a night at the opera. Its quite easy to buy tickets on the day, but if you’re an opera aficionado make sure you book well in advance so you get the seats you want.
Images projected onto the walls of Palais Schoenburg
Held in the magnificent Schoenburg Palace, the Thomas Sabo annual launch party was a stunning event. We spent most of the evening in the gardens, watching bands, sat on lip shaped chairs, sipping pink champagne and eating ice cream.
Al Fresco drinks
Vienna – Street Style

What to wear when you’re there

The general style in Vienna is grown up, sophisticated and polished. Keep it classic and smart casual for the day. For the evening think slick LBD’s and cocktail dresses for the ladies and suits for the boys, especially if you’re going to the opera which has quite a strict dress code. The Thomas Sabo event was rather a grand affair, so I decided to take a few shots of the discerning crowd.
Julia and Helen do monochromes
LBD with a twist
Tamara (Thomas Sabo PR) looks glamourous in Missoni
Lady in red
Nude neutrals
casually suited and booted
Leroy all in black
more nudes
A little off-the-shoulder number
Elisa working prints http://elkin.bigcartel.com
Loving Andre’s tangerine trousers

What to wear when you’re there – Vienna

Packing – Night at the Opera
From left to right: leather cuff – Salvatore Ferragamo http://www.ferragamo.com Gold watch – Folli Folie  www.follifollie.co.uk Underwear set – Princesse Tam Tam www.princessetamtam.com Pink lace dress – BCBG Max Azaria www.bcbg.com Cream suitcase – Globetrotter www.globetrotter1897.com Berry sandals – Raoul www.matchesfashion.com Lipstick – Revlon Super Lustrous Fire and Ice http://www.revlon.co.uk Leopard print phone holder – Alexander McQueen www.alexandermcqueen.com Touche Eclait – YSL www.yslbeauty.co.uk Nail polish – Estee Lauder Rosa Rosa http://www.esteelauder.com Perfume Prada Infusion d’iris edt www.houseoffraser.co.uk Silver clutch bag – Yves Saint Laurent www.yvessaintlaurent.co.uk
 

Fashion View Pic Vienna Shopping and Sightseeing

Vienna Shopping and Sightseeing

Vienna
Shopping and Sightseeing

Vienna sightseeing palaca
Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss at The Belvedere Palace
Vienna is famed for it’s rich cultural history and many palaces. You must visit at least one of them on your trip. For art lovers I would recommend The Belvedere Palace, it houses the work of Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele, as well as many other early 20th century artists. Alternatively to see the grandeur of Viennese architecture at its best, the Schonbrunn Palace and its spectacular gardens makes for a relaxing and inspiring day out of the city.
Vienna sightseeing palace
Schonbrunn Palace
Vienna sightseeing palace
Schonbrunn Palace
13 Schonbruuner-Schlosstraasse
Vienna
A must see for budding horticulturalists, Interior designers and architects alike.
Vienna sightseeing Belvedere palace
Belvedere Palace
3 Prinz-Eugen-Strasse 27
Vienna
http://www.belvedere.at/enThe Belvedere Palace has been turned into an art gallery with an extensive collection of early 20th century art work. Be inspired by the art nouveau works of Gustav Klimt, his most famous piece The Kiss, is part of the permanent collection in the Belvedere Upper Museum. Also on display are seminal works by expressionist artist Egon Schiele.
Vienna sightseeing palace Belvedere
Vienna sightseeing palace Belvedere
The Belvedere
Vienna sightseeing palace Belvedere art
Egon Schiele, Sitting woman with legs drawn up, 1917
Shopping – Vienna
Vienna is not famed as a European shopping destination, but it does have all of the international high street brands such as Zara and H&M. The main shopping streets are on and around Stephan Platz, but there are more off-the-beaten-track niche boutiques and shops.
Vienna shopping boutiques interior
NFive
NFive
Neubaugasse 5
1070 Vienna
Housing trendy labels like Vanessa Bruno, Paul and Joe Sister and Dagmar, NFive is one of the coolest fixtures on the Viennese fashion scene.
Vienna shopping boutiques interior Thomas Sabo
Thomas Sabo store
Seilergasse 4
A-1010 Wien
http://shop.thomassabo.comWe spent half the day in the Thomas Sabo boutique playing with all the charms and quirky jewellery.
Vienna shopping boutiques interior India
India boutique
India
Strobelg 2
1010 Vienna
Imported silks and fabrics from, you guessed it, India. Kaftans, smock dresses and home wares in a beautiful colour coordinated interior.
Vienna shopping boutiques interior India
The famous Viennese Manner Waifers
Vienna culture art
Gustav Klimts ‘The Virgin’

Viral OMG Vienna After Dark and Hotels

Vienna After Dark and Hotels

Vienna After Dark opera
The Vienna State Opera
A night at the opera is a must for all visitors to Vienna.
Closed in July and August, opera season runs from September to June.
It normally costs between 100 – 280 euros, it’s usually quite easy to book when you arrive unless your looking for really specific seats. Smart dress code applies.
Vienna night opera theatre
Vienna night opera theatre
The Grand State Opera at Night
Bars and Cafes
bar cafe vienna
Sophisticated Viennese evening culture revolves much more around cafes and coffee houses than bars and night clubs. Those in search of a raucous night of partying may be searching for quite a while.
Some Viennese cafes of note are:
Cafe Hawelka – One of Vienna’s oldest cafes, still owned by the original founding family. The crowd? Artists and creatives.
Museum Cafe – Where artists Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt were regulars.
Frauenhuber Cafe – Was a popular destination for musicians and composers, namely Mozart and Beethoven.
Cafe Central – Once frequented by Lenin.
Landtmann Cafe – Renowned as Sigmund Frued’s favourite coffee house.
Sacher Cafe – Famous for the Sacher Torte, one of Austria’s most famous culinary specialities, this rich chocolate cake is only made here in Vienna and the Sacher Cafe in Salzberg.
Vienna Pickwick shop cafe
After Dark
The Dreieck area or ‘Bermuda Triangle’ as it’s infamously known, is filled with bars and restaurants, although be warned,  part of it is rather tacky with neon lights and cheesy bars. A street called Friedmann Platz just on the edge of the ‘Bermuda Triangle’ is a little more chic than the central parts. Head to Pickwick’s cafe and enjoy a pint of ale whilst indulging in the in-bar library, or try Kornat Restaurant for great seafood in chic modern surroundings. In the summer months the outdoor seats are the ones to reserve. Dress code: smart casual is fine. Most of this area is open till 3am.
Vienna Kornat night eating
Vienna Kornat night eating al fresco
Al fresco dining at Kornat
Vienna do&co rooftop restaurant
Rooftop restaurant at Do&Co
Do&Co
Stephansplatz
1010 Wien
Do&Co Restaurant and bar is the favourite hang out of Vienna’s ‘it’ crowd. Centrally located, it has amazing views of Stephan Platz and the cathedral. Reservations are a must for dinner, alternatively you can have drinks in the unusually decorated bar area. It’s an eclectic mix of leather chesterfield sofas and deer antlers at one side of the room and Morrocan cushions and shisha pipes at the other, all housed in an ultra modern building. Dress code: smart and stylish. Prices: expensive, this is one of Vienna’s premium night spots.
If Do&Co is fully booked you can also try the Sky Bar just 5 minutes walk from Do&Co towards the Grand Hotel Wien.
Clubbing
Ok, so Vienna wasn’t the easiest place to find cool bars and clubs, but I did have one place recommended to me several times. Pratersauna and Fluc are touted as the trendiest clubs in town. Expect electro and house beats on the decks.  I’d love to hear what you think.
Pratersauna
Waldsteingartenstrasse 135
1020 Vienna
Vienna summer nightlife clubbing party
The summer pool at Pratersauna
Fluc Wanne
Praterstern 5
1020 Vienna
On the live music and clubbing front try Fluc Wanne. In the same area as Pratersauna you might be excused for thinking Fluc is infact a building site, but this is the playground of Vienna’s cool kids and students. Dress code is pretty much anything goes, think more cool grunge than party girl.
Hotels – Vienna – Sleeping
Vienna Grand Hotel Wien
Vienna Grand Hotel Wien lobby
Grand Hotel Wien
Karntner Ring 9
A-1010 Wien
We stayed at the Grand Hotel Wien, it is the ultimate in old school elegance. Grand piano playing in the foyer, floors so shiny you can see your reflection in them and suitably chintzy but very ostentatious bedrooms.
Vienna hotels Sacher Wien bedroom
Bedroom at the Sacher Wien
Hotel Sacher Wien
4 Philharmonikerstrasse
1010 Vienna
If you can’t get enough of the Sacher Torte (see Cafes) this is the place for you. So centrally located, the State Opera is on one side and Stephan Platz is on the other. The hotel is impeccably grandiose and the rooms are a beautifully renovated mix of classic Viennese style and modern functionality.