Late deals
LONDON’S Park Plaza Riverbank Hotel has had a recent revamp including a stunning new spa that is the ultimate Christmas hangover cure.
The four-star deluxe accommodation sits right on the River Thames with each floor providing panoramic views across to Westminster and beyond.
Vauxhall train station and Underground is a five-minute walk away, with the London Eye and Westminster Bridge close by in the other direction.
Entering the revolving door into the grand foyer, however, transports guests into a swish spa-like setting that seems a million miles from the frenzy outside.
Asian-inspired foliage, mood lighting and relaxing music set the tone for the rest of the 17 floors filled with 489 superior and executive rooms and suites, almost all boasting river views. XXXXXX xxxxxx In the executive room, a huge plasma
Xxxx TV has a host of channels including a fully interactive entertainment system.
This is also where guests can access information about the hotel and top tips for tourists looking to explore the city.
A well-stocked mini bar plus selection of tea and coffee and Nespresso machine doesn’t go unnoticed.
Hop into the double shower in the bathroom and choose from a range of Elemis spa products, as well as a cleansing cloth and pads for skincare fans.
Those wishing to unwind can put on a Park Plaza robe and enter the hotel’s luxury spa.
Taking a dip in the heated indoor swimming pool provides spectacular views of the river where you can get some lengths in, or enjoy the view from one of the many loungers.
Just round the corner are the sauna and steam room.
Next year, Park Plaza will see its own beauty room and massage room open, with dedicated therapists on hand to provide a range of special treatments.
Of course, the modern fitness suite is open 24 hours a day for those who’d BY KATHLEEN SPEIRS rather stick to their New Year exercise regime.
Latin American and pan-Asian cuisine served as tapas may seem a little confusing but the Chino Latino restaurant pulls this fusion off brilliantly.
The Chino set menu, for £60 per person, includes lobster tacos, sushi platters, gyozas, steak, ribs, sea bream and fruit sorbet as part of the extensive tasting menu for two people.
Floor to ceiling windows at Chino Latino and the adjoining bar on the first floor means those having an evening meal or cooked breakfast in the morning can do so while looking over the Thames.
A break in London might not be the first choice when it comes to escaping the January blues but Park Plaza Riverbank proves the city can provide total rest and relaxation. ● From Glasgow on Jan 20, four nights, room only at threestar Hotel The Exchange, Amsterdam, from £297pp. ● From Glasgow on Jan 27, three nights B&B at the three-star Europa City Hotel, Berlin, from £187pp. ● From Edinburgh on Jan 27, five nights self-catering at the three-star FriendHouse Apartments, Krakow, from £197pp. ● From Edinburgh on Feb 3, four nights B&B at the three-star Charles Central, Prague, from £197pp. ● For these deals and more, visit www. barrheadtravel.co.uk or call 0141 222 2223.