Literary Travel in London, Florence and Rome
Guided by the pages of influential writers, we explore the imagination behind the most romantic of European cities.
More than a century ago, an author drew inspiration from his childhood in India to write a series of colourful tales about a man-cub named Mowgli, who grows up in the jungle among bears and panthers. Some of these stories he penned during a stay at London’s first hotel, unaware that they – and the hotel – would become legendary.
This Christmas, a visit to Brown’s Hotel is a visit to a tropical festive fantasia, designed by Sir Paul Smith to honour the 125th anniversary of Rudyard Kipling’s tales, better known as The Jungle Book. The adventures begin the moment you step through the hotel’s entrance, dominated by an immense Christmas tree adorned with unique jungle-themed baubles; venture further and discover exotic festive decorations throughout the hotel. Upon arrival, little guests will receive a furry monkey mascot, Alby, as a gift, and those checking in to the Kipling Suite, named for the author, will find witty references to the book incorporated in the décor of these lavish rooms.
After a day of gift-shopping in London’s renowned boutiques, enjoying Christmas traditions at the city’s markets and marveling at Bond Street’s iconic lights, return to Brown’s for more festive highlights. In the English Tea Room, renowned for its elegant Afternoon Tea, the jungle theme delivers tropical treats. Those seeking a zesty nightcap can enjoy the Jungle Julep, a limited-edition cocktail served in the inviting atmosphere of Donovan Bar.
On the big day, after an exciting visit from Father Christmas himself, sit down for a convivial Christmas meal at Charlie’s. Brown’s Hotel’s new restaurant, decorated throughout with fitting botanical shades, is serving up a decadent six-course menu by Chef Adam Byatt, presented on jungle-themed plates.
For those still undecided about what to place under the tree, our thoughtful gift suggestions can be found nowhere else. Delight loved ones with a limited-edition copy of The Jungle Book, specially printed for Brown’s Hotel to mark this literary anniversary, alongside a copy of a letter Kipling wrote during a stay here. For a one-of-a-kind stocking filler that exemplifies an iconic British institution, author and designer, a unique Kipling-inspired bauble by Sir Paul Smith makes a singularly precious keepsake.
Book your festive stay or our special Starry Suite Nights package at Brown’s Hotel by emailing reservations.browns@roccofortehotels.com or call +44 207 493 6020.
Guided by the pages of influential writers, we explore the imagination behind the most romantic of European cities.
Sicily is “the key to everything”, or so wrote Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in his works, Italian Journey. Throughout history, the largest island in the Mediterranean has captivated travellers as a land of myth, natural beauty and ancient memory. Shaped by Greek colonies, Emirates of Crete, Roman Provinces, Norman Kingdoms and Spanish rule, Sicily holds the imprint of civilisations past. Woven into its landscapes, their presence remains with its buildings, ruins and along the pretty coastal paths that follow its shores.
Vivacious, glamorous, powerful. Few figures encapsulate the effortless grandeur of the Belle Époque quite like Donna Franca, our Sicilian muse. Famed for her petite frame, thick dark hair and an exquisite fashion sense that has endured for over a century, Franca was the epitome of an era that placed beauty and high fashion at its forefront.