As a city buzzing with vitality and life, London has successfully evolved into a destination with so much to offer and indeed enchant discerning international visitors.

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The combination of its depth of history and the stunning modernity of many of its newest buildings create a tableau of all that’s exciting about this truly great 21st century city.

Add in the depth of the cultural offer of world-renowned museums and galleries and its vibrant Theatreland and quality restaurant scene and it is easy to see why so many visitors choose to return many times. Those who dream of spending a weekend in London often discover that a weekend’s just too short for a dream. So, let’s step out into six special parts of the UK’s capital to reveal just a little about each area and open the door to some of the finest international hotels. We’re talking about the kind of hotel where, as soon as the door of your room or suite opens, there’s the gentle kindling of the idea “I’d like to come back.”

Mayfair: Arts Club Hotel

Mayfair’s sense of exclusivity has endured over generations. It’s so much more than the most expensive square on the Monopoly board. The finest brands with their trademark customer service find their homes here and it has long been an area where the influential choose to live.

The Arts Club Hotel forms part of the members-only Arts Club – established in London since 1867. It offers 16 rooms and suites created with the finest specifications to ensure total comfort. A warm, personal welcome is assured and guests appreciate the coolness of the place as well as individual attention of a butler and the hotel’s clear emphasis on privacy and discretion as well as exclusive contemporary art exhibitions all year long.

Central London: Corinthia Hotel

With London’s official centre just outside Charing Cross Station, this part of town is often seen as its heart. Close to quirky Covent Garden and with great access across the Thames to the South Bank’s cultural hub it’s an area of interest and vibrancy. The Corinthia Hotel is perfectly placed close to both the river and Trafalgar Square.

On the cusp of Theatreland and with only a gentle stroll to the National Gallery, the Corinthia offers sleek, contemporary room and extraordinary suite designs with an enveloping feeling of space, exquisite dining (including a fresh take on English Afternoon Tea), highest standards of in-room technology and special spa treatments.

Insider tip: Ask the concierge to show you the door to “The best kept secret of London”.

Hyde Park: The Lanesborough Hotel

Hyde Park provides oxygen and space in the middle of a buzzing city. From Speakers’ Corner to the flash of the Household Cavalry’s uniforms, it speaks of established British traditions and is a special place to escape to. The Lanesborough Hotel is situated directly opposite the Duke of Wellington’s former home Apsley House formerly known as “No 1 London” and lies close to Buckingham Palace, Green Park and Piccadilly.

Having completed an extensive refurbishment program, the Lanesborough’s rooms and suites set the standard for finish and attention to detail. Guests enjoy a dedicated butler service, Michelin-starred dining and exclusive spa, which became one of London’s most sought-after city retreats.

South Kensington: Blakes Hotel

Home to the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum, South Kensington is also a high-end residential area with a compelling range of shops and places to dine. Crafted by hotelier and designer Anouska Hempel, Blakes Hotel presents a space designed to live long in the memory.

The individual touches in every room or suite create the gasp factor and provide a sense of being cocooned. In addition, there is an 18th Century Mews House which acts as a private residence as well as a Bohemian Courtyard and the outstanding Blakes Restaurant where travellers feel instantly at ease. The boutique hotel is especially favored by the world’s fashion elite.

Belgravia: The Halkin Hotel

Known as the centre of London’s diplomatic community, Belgravia also has some of the city’s finest private residences.

Its gracious and spacious squares give a sense of style and proportion and the Halkin Hotel sits comfortably in such an environ.

The hotel is especially successful in having much repeat business and is also well-known as a place designed for women to feel safe and comfortable. The service is exceptional and the 41 rooms and suites reflect innovative design with a special emphasis on stunning woodwork.

Afternoon Tea sets out to challenge perceptions while relaxation is complete with massage and treatments.

Knightsbridge: Mandarin Oriental

Synonymous with the finest retail experience, Knightsbridge draws knowing customers from around the world. It’s not just grand department stores but individual fashion houses and the overall quality of shopping offer. Sitting almost like a magnificent French chateau, the 115-year-old Mandarin Oriental is one of the world’s great hotels.

Service quality is apparent as guests arrive and the refurbished rooms and suites and public spaces with parkland views make for a unique hotel stay. There is now a new Residences facility where guests can live as if at home while enjoying the full spa and dining facilities of the hotel.