A VIP luncheon with representatives of the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria and The Ritz London

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Recent VIP visitors to Sydney representing distinguished and elegant international hotels were Guido Fiorentino, president and CEO of The Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria in Sorrento, and Ruth Jones, commercial director of The Ritz Hotel in London. They were hosts of an informal luncheon for travel media held at Lucio’s Italian Restaurant in Sydney’s Paddington held at the end of February. Guests gathered around one large table in the lower dining room surrounded by some striking examples of Lucio Galletto’s famous Australian art collection. Lucio himself greeted many at the table and was more than happy to advise on suitable choices from the delicious Italian menu. Chargrilled octopus with almond cream and peperonata followed by a fillet of blue-eye trevalla with white onion purée and a squid ink and salmon roe dressing proved irresistible. Between courses, Guido Fiorentino told guests that his gorgeous hotel in the centre of Sorrento on the Amalfi Coast has been owned and operated by his family for 184 years. “The loyal staff also feel part of the family and many have known me since I was born.” There are 84 rooms and suites and a private villa set in several buildings surrounded by gardens with a large pool, wisteria-draped walkways, fruit trees and organic vegetable plots. This award-winning five-star hotel has a spectacular location on the cliffs of Sorrento with panoramic views over the Bay of Naples and of Mount Vesuvius. There’s a seafront restaurant and the more formal Terrazza Bosquet has been awarded a Michelin star. Many clients have discovered the hotel on their honeymoon then come back for holidays year after year. “They are always a little bit sad to leave,” Guido says. The Australian market is growing although our numbers are behind the British, Americans and South Americans. However, one Australian couple recently spent a luxurious 28 days enjoying the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria and its surroundings. Ruth Jones, commercial director of The Ritz London, mentioned that a British family owns the hotel. Cézar Ritz who wished to create an establishment with character, elegance and atmosphere was the founder in 1906. “The Ritz is the quintessential British property and has a royal warrant from Prince Charles,″ Ruth said. Rooms are decorated in gracious Louis XVI neoclassical style. It’s perfectly positioned on Piccadilly next to Green Park with just a short stroll to the Royal Academy, the National Gallery and Fortnum & Mason. Tea at The Ritz is held in the glorious and elaborately designed Palm Court. For many visitors to London, this is a once in a lifetime experience. Ruth is particularly enthusiastic about some special two-night packages that will available during the coming London Season. She feels these will appeal to Australian visitors although it would be wise for them to book now, as places are limited. In May, there will be a private tour of the Chelsea Flower Show with a day of hospitality in the Jardin Blanc with food by Raymond Blanc. In June it’s off to Ladies Day at Royal Ascot and in July the Wimbledon package includes excellent tickets to the tennis with private transport and a three-course lunch designed by Albert Roux plus the traditional afternoon tea of strawberries and cream. All include a three-course dinner at The Ritz on the night of arrival plus executive room accommodation and English breakfast.

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