TIME magazine has released the ‘World’s Greatest Places of 2024,’ an exhaustive list of 100 places to stay and visit, with three spots in the UK making it to the catalogue.
The magazine’s website chalked out the compiling process, and explained: “TIME solicited nominations of places—including hotels, cruises, restaurants, attractions, museums, parks, and more—from its international network of correspondents and contributors, as well as through an application process, with an eye toward those offering new and exciting experiences.”
Raffles London at The OWO
One of the two hotels that made it to the list is the Raffles London at The OWO- a palatial five-star hotel located in Whitehall, less than a mile from Buckingham Palace.
The affluent property, which was once home to icons such as Sir Winston Churchill and Lord Haldane, houses 120-rooms, three bars, a multi-level spa with a lavish 65-foot swimming pool, and nine restaurants.
Guests leave with their hearts full and no dearth of praise whatsoever, as a review by Suken V on Tripadvisor reads: “One of the best stays we have had. Food was top tier, hotel staff excellent and the history tour is not to be missed. The pool is an oasis in the middle of a busy city.”
Another user added: “Simply remarkable. A lovely example of luxury and quality.”
100 Princes Street in Edinburgh
The other hotel is the fairly young 100 Princes Street in Edinburgh, overlooking the Castle and within earshot of Scotland’s National Gallery.
Best known for its massive inventory of bourbon and whiskey, and the promise of an immersive Scottish experience, guests get to design their own Scottish gin, or even customise a tartan or kilt for themselves.
The five-storeyed property has 30 rooms, and rave reviews. Thomas N on Tripadvisor said: “The hotel is beautiful from the moment you walk in – soft carpets and an incredible mural on the staircase immediately catch your eye.”
Another user added: “Wish I could give it a six star rating!”
Aviva Studios, Manchester
Under ‘places to visit’ is Aviva Studios, home of Factory International, also home to the biennial Manchester International Festival.
The unique architecture of the building is distinct in the otherwise bustling city, accented by a geometric and bulky metal facade, that has so far hosted works by legends including David Lynch and Yoko Ono.
Kerry Tibenham’s review on Google reads: “What an asset this venue is to Manchester, so much going on and highly accessible to everyone.”
While Helen B on Tripadvisor noted: “Amazing place, definitely better experience than other venues of this size, sound quality excellent and plenty of space to move around on concourse level.”
Other landmarks that have made it to the ‘World’s Greatest Places of 2024′ list include the Moroccan Culinary Arts Museum in Marrakech, Vermelho Hotel in Portugal and Paris’ Le Grand Mazarin.