HSBC drags FTSE back as investors eye inflation forecasts May 11, 2011 Banking giant HSBC sapped some of the confidence from the blue chip index today as it announced that it was aiming to slash costs by £2.1bn. The news followed a bruising start to the week for banks who have already earmarked billions for potential payouts over dubious insurance protection sales. HSBC fell 1.3 per cent [...]
Slippers at noon in City restaurant noise row May 5, 2011 CITY favourite 1 Lombard Street has got creative in its continuing battle with Lord Mayor Michael Bear over its alleged “excessive noise”. From today, the restaurant is giving its customers the option of wearing slippers as they dine so they don’t disturb the peace of the alderman, who has issued seven noise-related complaints against the [...]
GLENCORE PRICED AT BOTTOM OF THE RANGE May 3, 2011 ADVISERS to Glencore are set to price the shares in the group’s flotation at the bottom of the expected range. As the banks working on the deal gauged investor support for what is the London market’s biggest ever flotation, it became clear that the shares will be priced at a range that will value Glencore [...]
Fuerte Grazalema 4* May 3, 2011 Surround yourself with the beautiful Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park at this lovely rural hotel. Nature lovers will adore being out in the countryside here, with so much to see and do. And if you’ve filled your day with outdoor activities, Fuerte Grazalema provides the luxuries you need to relax afterwards, like a splendid outdoor [...]
Hotel and Spa Sierra de Cazorla 4* May 3, 2011 Amongst the Carzola Mountains lies this luxurious hotel and spa. In such a serene location, with olive trees all around, you can’t help but feel totally away from it all. Take in the panoramic views from the terrace of your gorgeous room, available in four styles; Mountain, Moroccan, African and Tibetan, and then indulge in [...]
Cortijo Balzain Casas Rurales (3 Key Rating) May 3, 2011 Rustic is the word for this country resort in the Sierra Nevada National Park – and we mean that in the most complimentary way. A collection of nine self catering cottages plus a farmhouse for up to 31 people, this traditional complex is just delightful. The beautifully restored 17th century buildings have retained all their [...]
Vincci Baixa 4* April 26, 2011 Housed in an old townhouse in Baixa, the famous shopping and banking district of Lisbon, Vincci Baixa offers a truly enchanting stay. We love this bohemian part of town and the hip feel of the hotel is a perfect fit for its surroundings. Packed with style and elegance it’s a great place to base yourself [...]
Hotel Avenida Palace 5* April 26, 2011 An imposing neo-classical building in the heart of Lisbon, you know you’re in for a treat the moment you set eyes on Avenida Palace. And when you step inside you’ll find the luxurious décor just as impressive. Its classical style oozes majestic charm and the grand Restauradores Square location is just perfect for sampling the [...]
Hotel Avenida Palace 5* April 26, 2011 An imposing neo-classical building in the heart of Lisbon, you know you’re in for a treat the moment you set eyes on Avenida Palace. And when you step inside you’ll find the luxurious décor just as impressive. Its classical style oozes majestic charm and the grand Restauradores Square location is just perfect for sampling the [...]
Axis Porto Business & Spa 4* April 26, 2011 This fantastic hotel is cool and modern with a really striking design feature throughout – floor to ceiling wooden panels running along each corridor showcasing iconic images of Porto. And whether you’re visiting on business or exploring the fascinating city for pleasure, the swimming pool and spa facilities here are just the sort you want [...]