Annapolis, sea-side capital of the state of Maryland, is a colonial American jewel box. Cobblestone streets lead from the Maryland State House, whose white dome peeks over centuries-old brownstones, down to the sailboat-filled harbor. The main thoroughfare is lined with quaint shops and restaurants; a few chains, yes, but mostly unique local establishments. Despite the […]
Afternoon Tea
Willard Hotel Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea
One of the highlights of the Washington, DC spring season is, of course, the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Many area bars and restaurants celebrate the annual event, adding special cocktails and dishes to their menus. The best of the bunch is the Willard Hotel cherry blossom tea. This exquisite high tea is served in the […]
Afternoon Tea at the Puli Hotel, Shanghai
During my last weeks in Shanghai, I made a valiant effort to cross things off my unrealistically long wish list. Even after two years in the city, there were still an abundance of experiences yet to be had. One such experience was enjoying afternoon tea at the luxurious PuLi Hotel and Spa, located in the […]
Afternoon Tea at the JW Marriott, Shanghai
On a recent blue-sky day, I headed to the JW Marriott Hotel at Tomorrow Square to partake of afternoon tea in the 38th floor lobby. I was rewarded with glorious views of Shanghai stretching from People’s Square all the way to Pudong. The hotel’s lobby is arranged a bit like a glamorous celebrity’s living room, […]
Once Upon a Tea at the Langham, Hong Kong
One of my guilty pleasures is taking high tea in a luxury hotel. There’s something about getting dressed up and heading out to enjoy oneself midday like a fin de siècle lady of leisure. The tradition of afternoon tea began in 1865 at the Langham in London and continues to this day. While I have yet to […]