Discover London’s blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy explore landmarks, enjoy delicious cuisine, and find hidden gems!
Discovering Local Charms
Explore London’s culinary scene and hidden gems delicious bites and stunning spots await!
The London West Hollywood
Experience the essence of London in the heart of West Hollywood at the stylish London West Hollywood Hotel!
Glamour & Style
Elevate your travel with glamour and style, showcasing the newest beauty trends for the chic explorer!
Best New Places to Visit
Top 10
U.S. Destinations That Capture the Charm of London: Your Gateway to British Vibes Without Leaving the States!
VOYAGE ÉCLAT: An Insider's Guide
A New Travel Publication from Our Editor-in-Chief Kathy Copcutt.
As the editor-in-chief of VOYAGE ÉCLAT, I have a passion for exploring the world and discovering hidden gems in every destination. Now, I’m excited to share these insights with you!
May you have a VOYAGE ÉCLAT (Sparkling Voyage)!
This month in Voyage Éclat Travel Magazine, we delve into the enchanting beauty of London, from its historic landmarks to its vibrant street life. With iconic sights such as the majestic Tower Bridge and the bustling atmosphere of Covent Garden, London captivates travelers with its rich tapestry of culture and history. If a trip to the UK isn’t in your plans, don’t worry! Discover how you can experience that unmistakable London charm right here in the United States, with cities that echo the elegance and allure of this iconic metropolis.
From the cobblestone streets of Charleston, reminiscent of London’s rich history, to the bustling markets of New York City that rival the charm of Camden, each destination offers its own unique flavor of British sophistication Experience afternoon tea at a cozy café in San Francisco, where you can savor scones and clotted cream in a setting that mirrors the elegance of a London tearoom, or stroll through the picturesque neighborhoods of Philadelphia, where historic architecture meets modern flair, reminiscent of London’s architectural marvels.
editor letter fromthe
“The spirit of London is alive and thriving across the U.S., inviting you to explore its captivating charm without crossing the pond.”
Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a luxurious stay at the London Hotel West Hollywood, where you can enjoy a taste of British hospitality just steps away from the vibrant energy of Los Angeles. Moreover, explore the vibrant arts scene in cities like Boston, where galleries and theaters capture the creative spirit found along the Thames. With its diverse offerings, the spirit of London is alive and thriving across the U.S., inviting you to explore its captivating charm without crossing the pond. Join us as we uncover these hidden gems and celebrate the British influence that enriches the American landscape.
As you explore these remarkable destinations that evoke the charm of London, you'll find that each city offers its own unique experiences and delights, showcasing beauty and style at every turn. From cultural events to culinary adventures, the connections between these locations and the iconic British capital create a tapestry of experiences that celebrate both history and modernity.
Whether you're indulging in elegant dining, admiring stunning architecture, or immersing yourself in the arts, you’ll discover that the essence of London is not just a distant memory but a vibrant reality waiting to be embraced right at your doorstep.
Editor-in-Chief
Unveiling the wondersof London
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London is brimming with must-visit attractions that showcase its rich history and vibrant culture. Begin your journey at the iconic Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is steeped in royal history.
Not only is it home to the Crown Jewels, but it is also famously associated with Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII, who was executed there in 1536. Her tragic story and the intrigue surrounding her life and death add a layer of fascination to this historic fortress. Nearby, the majestic Tower Bridge offers stunning views of the River Thames and the city skyline Don't miss the British Museum, home to an incredible collection of art and antiquities from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. For a taste of London's vibrant atmosphere, take a stroll through Covent Garden, filled with shops, street performers, and delightful eateries.
Looking for a unique experience? Head to Leadenhall Market, a beautifully covered market that dates back to the 14th century. Its ornate architecture and vibrant atmosphere make it a great spot for shopping, dining, or simply soaking in the history. Another hidden gem is the Sky Garden, a public garden located atop the Walkie Talkie building Offering breathtaking panoramic views of London, the Sky Garden features lush greenery and spaces to relax, making it a perfect escape from the bustling streets below. Both places provide a distinct perspective on the city's charm and allure, showcasing the blend of history and modernity that defines London.
Discover Leadenhall Market, a magical spot with a rich history of wizards and muggles! Not only did it serve as Diagon Alley in *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*, but it was also one of the first places in London where women could work and the original site for purchasing cutlery.
What’s keeping you from visiting London? Now is the perfect time to explore this vibrant city, brimming with incredible experiences for everyone If traveling with family feels daunting, don't let that discourage you! You can easily find an au pair to assist you upon arrival, and many hotels can provide referrals. Additionally, consider signing your children up for three- or four-day camps, where they will not only immerse themselves in the local culture but also make new friends and discover so much more than they would have otherwise. Families can experience a day at the iconic London Zoo, where they can meet fascinating animals from around the world, or embark on an adventure at the Science Museum, filled with interactive exhibits that entertain and educate.
History enthusiasts will be captivated by the Tower of London, where centuries of royal intrigue unfold, and the British Museum, home to priceless artifacts like the Rosetta Stone. Just outside the city, you can visit the stunning Hampton Court Palace, a magnificent reminder of Tudor history, or take a trip to Windsor Castle, the oldest inhabited castle in the world. With so much to offer, from familyfriendly locations to historical sites, there's never been a better time to discover the magic of London!
Oxford Summer Courses offers a variety of programs for students aged 13-24, covering subjects like medicine, law, and creative writing. The Oxford Institute provides a two-week residential program for ages 15-19+, focusing on in-depth study of two subjects. Oxford Academia, in collaboration with Professor James Basker, emphasizes intensive, discussion-based learning with guest speakers and field trips. The Oxford Tradition caters to Grades 10-12 at Pembroke College, combining rigorous academics with authentic college life. Lastly, Oxford Royale offers specialized courses for ages 13-17 and 16-18, promoting engagement with leading figures in various fields, making Oxford an ideal destination for aspiring young scholars.
Charms Discovering Local
If you can’t make it to London, UK, the London West Hollywood offers a wonderful alternative, capturing the local charm with a touch of British history. Originally built 30 years ago as The Belage, this hotel became famous in the music industry and was designed to feel like a luxury apartment building. Chic yet unpretentious, the hotel features a rooftop pool, intuitive and friendly service, and an impressive array of amenities, including spacious suites. With 226 contemporary rooms, you'll quickly feel at home, whether in your suite or the inviting communal areas where you can easily spend hours.
Look for well-being breaks and reach for the sky at the rooftop, one of the most sought-after spots in the neighborhood, featuring a fantastic swimming pool and the delightful Boxwood restaurant.
The London West Hollywood is a charming and sophisticated blend of Californian cool and British flair. The tranquil pool overlooks palm trees and the Hollywood Hills, all inspired by the essence of an English country garden.
Throughout the hotel, you’ll find a glamorous atmosphere typical of Los Angeles, but also quirky touches like a whimsical statue or a humorous etching of a British bulldog. Instead of ‘elevators,’ you’ll see signs pointing to ‘the lifts,’ and from the very beginning, calls 'home' to London were complimentary, long before international roaming charges became reasonable.
Experience the perfect blend of Californian charm and British elegance at the London West Hollywood in Beverly Hills!
The London West Hollywood in Beverly Hills is bringing London tea experience to California with the limited-time Pixi Afternoon Tea and Rooftop Cabana Engagement, in partnership with Pixi Beauty.
Launched on July 26, this delightful partnership will be available every Saturday and Sunday from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Guests can enjoy a curated menu of London-inspired tea sandwiches and sweet treats, including Mini Vanilla-Rose Cupcakes and Raspberry Glow Jellies.
Don’t miss the Pixi Glow Bar for quick touch-ups and social media moments with Pixi filters and hashtags. For a more luxurious outing, reserve the Rooftop Pixi Cabana, equipped with chilled Pixi Glow Mists and a bespoke cocktail menu featuring options like The Pixietini.
The London West Hollywood and Pixi Beauty present a charming Pixi Afternoon Tea.
Wander through London’sboutiques!iconic
London is a shopper's paradise, offering a wealth of unique experiences that cater to every taste. Begin your adventure at Borough Market, a haven for food lovers, where you can savor gourmet delights and artisanal treats. Stroll through the vibrant Covent Garden, home to high-end boutiques and charming street performances, before heading to the eclectic Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill, renowned for its antiques and vintage fashion.
Don't miss the luxury of Harrods in Knightsbridge, where opulence meets gourmet fare, or the trendy independent shops along Carnaby Street that reflect the city’s youthful spirit. At Spitalfields Market, discover a blend of new and vintage items, while Westfield London offers a sprawling shopping experience with both high-street and luxury brands.
Take a step inside Liberty London, an iconic Tudor-style department store, where the charm of its historic architecture is matched only by the eclectic mix of luxury goods and unique homeware found within. As you wander through its beautifully curated displays, you'll discover everything from high-end fashion to artisanal crafts that celebrate British heritage. Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chinatown, where you can indulge in a sensory feast at its bustling Asian supermarkets and delightful bakeries, offering a taste of authentic flavors and treats. Finally, for beauty enthusiasts, make sure to stop by Pixi Beauty, which boasts a unique storefront in London alongside its location in Century City, California. Here, you’ll find a curated selection of beauty products that embody the essence of the city, from innovative skincare to trendy makeup. Each of these destinations promises a shopping experience unlike any other, filled with charm and character, making London a must-visit for avid shoppers and explorers alike.
Style Glamour &
"Unveil the glamour and style necessities that seamlessly fit into your everyday life, ensuring you shine on every journey. From versatile outfits to beauty essentials, travel chic and effortlessly elevate your style wherever you roam."
When traveling, the key to staying stylish is to choose clothes that are light and airy, allowing for comfort and ease as you explore new destinations. Packing light is essential, so focus on staple pieces that can be mixed and matched effortlessly. Include versatile clothing items that transition from day to night, along with must-have hair care, cosmetics, and beauty products to keep your look fresh. Don't forget to pack chic yet comfortable shoes that are perfect for all-day adventures. With these essentials, you can travel in style while maintaining a minimalist approach to your wardrobe.
Traveling can put your hair through the wringer, so don’t forget to pack K18 HeatBounce Conditioning Heat Protectant. This innovative leave-in treatment not only detangles and softens your locks but also provides unparalleled heat protection. With K18, you can ensure your hair remains resilient and beautiful, even under the stress of travel. Keep your strands safe and fabulous, no matter where your adventures take you!
The Dreame Pocket High-Speed Hair Dryer is your perfect travel companion, weighing just 0.66 pounds and featuring a foldable design. It delivers quick drying and allows for customizable styling with five modes and two airflow speeds. Plus, the included two nozzles make styling effortless, ensuring your hair looks fabulous wherever your travels take you!
PEARL SERUM. Discover the transformative power of our luxurious do-it-all serum, a musthave for any traveler. Formulated with a carefully selected blend of natural and potent active ingredients, this serum nourishes your skin and promotes a radiant complexion, essential for maintaining your glow on the go. With Rosa Damascena (Bulgarian Rose) water, Aloe Barbodensis Leaf Juice, Peptides, Ceramide Complex, Hyaluronic Acid, and a variety of botanical extracts and essential oils, you can harness the power of nature to keep your skin looking its best, no matter where your adventures take you. Embrace the beauty of your skin and travel with confidence!
WHERE FASHION MEETS COMPASSION: LIQUID LEATHER, VEGAN AND VOGUE
Clara Sunwoo's Liquid Leather™ jackets and pants have captured the attention of celebrities and fashion lovers alike, thanks to their timeless elegance and exceptional comfort. Crafted from sustainable materials, these vegan-friendly pieces blend style with a sense of responsibility. Their versatility and high-quality design make them a go-to choice for travel enthusiasts, leaving a lasting impact in the fashion world.
When traveling, comfort is essential to ensure an enjoyable experience, and having the right bras and pajamas plays a significant role in that. A comfortable bra is crucial, especially when you're active; it provides the necessary support without hindrances, allowing you to move freely and focus on your journey. After a day of exploration, slipping into luxurious pajamas that feel good against your skin i the perfect way to unwind. Discover true beauty with WACOAL's understated lingerie collections, which perfectly delive both undeniable comfort and sophistication Prioritizing comfort in you travel attire enhances your overall wellbeing, allowing you to embrace each adventure fully and enjoy restful momen in your hotel room, making your trips more enjoyable and memorable.
Intimate Elegance: Wacoal
Travel in style and comfort with WACOAL's cozy PJs and cooling bras. Enjoy effortless elegance and relaxation on the go!
Traveling can often be stressful, but during those challenging moments, the WACOAL Comfortable Cool Underwire Bra is here to provide support. Designed to keep you comfortable, cool, and dry through all of life's stages, this seamless underwire bra features full coverage two-ply cups and moisture-wicking fabric It's particularly beneficial for managing hot flashes, especially during menopause The hidden sling in the cups offers additional support and shaping for sizes DDD and up, while the bonded neckline lies flat for a smooth finish With camisole straps for extra comfort, close-set back straps to prevent slipping, and adjustable straps for a personalized fit, this bra is a reliable companion for your travels. The hook-and-eye back closure ensures a secure fit.
From London to Beverly Hills, Townhouse Beauty is the ultimate destination for manicures and pedicures.
Founded by Juanita Huber-Millet in 2018, Townhouse was created with a singular aim: to transform the nail salon experience.
They’ve discarded traditional norms and reimagined them for today’s world, crafting a stunning oasis that prioritizes five-star customer service, dependable treatments with industry-leading hygiene practices, cutting-edge technology, fashionable nail art, and a commitment to providing genuine career opportunities for skilled professionals in the field.
THE TOWNHOUSE WAY
At Townhouse, they believe that your manicure should be nothing short of exceptional. That’s why they proudly introduce the industry’s first gel manicure guarantee because perfection isn’t just a promise; it’s their standard.
Experience flawless treatments and outstanding service you can count on every time!
Book your Luxury Manicure today and enjoy pristine nails with a 7-day guarantee at all their salon locations. Visit their website for all locations and schedule your appointment now! Experience world-class service from London’s premier nail salon, now in Beverly Hills. Book today for stylish designs!
RAY-BAN | META WAYFARER
AI GLASSES
Ray-Ban | Meta Wayfarer AI glasses are essential for travelers seeking both style and functionality. These innovative glasses seamlessly blend classic design with cutting-edge technology, offering a hands-free experience that enhances your adventures. With built-in AI capabilities, you can capture stunning moments, navigate unfamiliar places, and stay connected without missing a beat. Their lightweight and durable build ensures comfort during long journeys, while the iconic Wayfarer style keeps you looking sharp. Whether exploring bustling cities or enjoying serene landscapes, these smart glasses elevate your travel experience, making every moment more memorable and effortless.
Are you still wondering if you should travel solo or with your kids? Or are you simply worried about traveling in general? All of your feelings are valid. It’s important to understand that it’s okay to feel insecure or even afraid about something unfamiliar; these feelings are natural. However, traveling is a necessity and should be woven into the fabric of your life and your children's lives as well.
Traveling not only fosters family bonding and creates lifelong memories, but it also offers valuable learning experiences that enhance social awareness and compassion in children. As you embark on new adventures together, you'll find that travel promotes happiness and teaches responsibility. Exploring with kids can be an accessible way to spend quality time together while expanding their horizons.
Moreover, travel helps in building better communication skills and developing selfesteem, allowing children to grow more confident in themselves. It encourages physical fitness and disconnects you from daily routines, providing an opportunity for bonding and shared experiences. If you can’t make it to the United Kingdom, consider starting your travels within the United States.
The next five locations are similar to London and would be a great stepping stone for you and your family to experience. Once you ’ ve got down how to read the train station departure and arrival board in another country, you’ll feel equipped to overcome any challenge that comes your way. Embrace the journey, as travel makes kids smarter and enriches your family’s life in countless ways.
When it comes to scoring great deals for your travels, your best options are websites like Booking.com, Tripmasters.com, Expedia.com, and Agoda.com. These platforms offer a variety of discounted hotel rates and travel packages tailored to your preferences. Travelzoo is another fantastic resource that presents ready-to-purchase travel packages, making the planning process even easier. With Tripmasters.com, you can create a customized itinerary that reflects your unique wants and needs. Additionally, by signing up on Booking.com, Expedia.com, and Agoda.com, you can earn points that can be redeemed for future bookings. Be sure to check the specific rules and regulations for each site to maximize your savings!
DiscoveredLondon:AnAdventurousChecklistfor Kids
Are you ready for an exciting adventure in one of the world's most vibrant cities? London is bursting with history, culture, and fun things to see and do. Grab your journal and get ready to explore! Here’s a fantastic checklist of must-see attractions, along with prompts that will inspire kids to record their experiences.
1. The Tower of London
Step into history at the Tower of London! This ancient fortress is home to the Crown Jewels and fascinating tales of kings and queens.
Journal Prompt:What did you learn about the history of the Tower? Did you see the Crown Jewels?
2. Buckingham Palace
Feel like royalty as you visit Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the Queen. Don’t miss the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony!
Journal Prompt:Did you see the Changing of the Guard? What did the palace look like?
3. The British Museum
Home to countless treasures, the British Museum showcases artifacts from around the world.
Journal Prompt:What was your favorite exhibit? Did you see the Rosetta Stone?
4. The London Eye
Experience breathtaking views of the city from the London Eye, one of the world’s tallest observation wheels.
Journal Prompt: How did it feel to see London from above? What landmarks could you spot?
5. Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
Marvel at the stunning architecture of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
Journal Prompt:What do you think about the design of Big Ben? What stories do you imagine it could tell?
DiscoverLondon:AnAdventurousChecklistforKids
6. Covent Garden
Explore the lively atmosphere of Covent Garden, filled with shops, eateries, and street performers.
Journal Prompt: Did you see any street performers? What was the best act you watched?
7. The Natural History Museum
Dive into the wonders of nature at the Natural History Museum, where dinosaurs and ancient artifacts await.
Journal Prompt: What was the coolest dinosaur you saw? What did you learn about nature?
8. Trafalgar Square
Visit Trafalgar Square, a hub of activity and art, featuring the famous Nelson's Column.
Journal Prompt: What did you think about the fountains and statues? Did you enjoy the atmosphere?
9. The West End (Theatre District)
Catch a show in London’s famous West End, where musicals and plays come to life!
Journal Prompt: If you saw a show, how was it? What was your favorite part?
10. The Science Museum
Get hands-on at the Science Museum, where discovery and innovation take center stage.
Journal Prompt: What was the most interesting invention you learned about? Did you try any hands-on exhibits?
11. Hyde Park
Relax and enjoy nature in Hyde Park, one of London's largest and most beautiful parks.
Journal Prompt: Did you see any interesting wildlife? What did you enjoy doing in the park?
12 The Shard
Ascend to The Shard, the tallest building in London, for panoramic views that will take your breath away
Journal Prompt: What did you think of the view from the tallest building in London? How far could you see?
13 Camden Market
Indulge your senses at Camden Market, known for its eclectic shops and delicious street food
Journal Prompt: What unique foods or items did you find? What was the most colorful thing you saw?
14 The River Thames
Take a boat ride along the River Thames, where you'll see London from a whole new perspective
Journal Prompt: Did you take a boat ride? What was your favorite view along the river?
