SINGAPORE (Dec 20): Stay at a hotel with links to Scotland Yard; Malta finally catches the eye of the Michelin folks.
Former police HQ now a luxury hotel
A luxury hotel has opened in a historic landmark that was once the headquarters of the London police, housed kings of Scotland and served as inspiration for Sherlock Holmes writer Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
Located just steps away from Parliament and Covent Garden, Great Scotland Yard has opened its doors to the public for the first time in 200 years following extensive renovations.
The property is the latest addition to The Unbound Collection by Hyatt in Europe, a portfolio of independent premium hotels.
Overall, Great Scotland Yard features 152 guest rooms including 15 suites decorated in a neutral colour palette across five storeys. Details include wardrobes concealed behind a bookcase façade, in a playful nod to its undercover police heritage, and robe hooks shaped like keys.
Adjacent to the property is No 1 Great Scotland Yard Townhouse, a standalone two-bedroom apartment.
Dining and drinking options are overseen by Irish “Masterchef” Robin Gill and include modern British cuisine at The Yard, The 40 Elephants cocktail bar and The Parlour tearoom.
The hotel also features a 24-hour fitness centre.
Michelin in Malta
Michelin has announced plans to add Malta to its list of restaurant guides as of next year.
The archipelago, located between Sicily and the North African coast in the Mediterranean Sea, becomes the 33rd destination covered by the French restaurant guide. (see main image)
The local gastronomic scene is described as a rich heritage of culinary influences from Italy, North Africa and Great Britain.
Interest in Malta as a tourist destination has grown in recent years. According to the country’s tourism office, total inbound visitors grew 14% from 2017 to 2018 alone. Last year, the islands received 2.63 million visitors.
“Our mission at the Michelin Guide has always been to highlight the best gastronomic establishments around the world to its readers, and today the Maltese culinary scene has talents that are worthy of discovery by foodies from around the world,” says international director Gwendal Poullennec in a statement.
“In the centre of the Mediterranean, Malta is a very attractive cultural destination with a unique cuisine style that beautifully combines European influences and local traditions.” Malta is the newest destination to receive Michelin coverage. The brand also announced plans to launch an inaugural guide for Slovenia in 2020.
The first Maltese selection will be revealed on Feb 26, 2020.
