Tag Archives: Poland

Hot on the Highstreet Week 241 – Shopping in Warsaw

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Galilu Olfactory – this airy and bright little shop stocks a wide range of wonderful perfumes. The sophisticated scents are from unique brands all over the world and the staff will give you expert help choosing the right bottle for you.

Horn & More – a seductive girls boutique stocking fine underwear, statement jewellery and aromatic scented candles. It is a treat for all the senses.

Likus Concept Store – located in the smart Vitkac shopping mall this concept store is seriously stylish stocking all the leading designer brands. When you’ve shopped head up to the delicious Concept 13 restaurant on the top floor.

Magazyn Praga – Located in a former glue warehouse this little shop features relics from its industrial past that mix with their high-profile selection of new and vintage fashion and furniture. There are irresistible design items everywhere, I wanted it all!

Wedel – this renowned Polish confectioner is the ultimate chocolate emporium. Leave the chilly streets and head inside for a the creamiest cup of hot chocolate or a taste of the famous torte which is handmade and layers with wafer and chocolate. We returned several times for more.

H15 Boutique Hotel, Warsaw

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Most tourists visiting Warsaw will head for the old town, but I found livelier and more exciting places in the area just south of the city centre. We stayed in the very contemporary, design-conscious H15 Boutique Hotel and were surrounded by characterful places to eat and drink.

Located on one of the oldest streets in the city, the hotel is housed in a transformed 19th century building with a rich and chequered history. Previously it was home to the Polish independence movement, the Soviet Embassy and was even a headquarters for the Nazi party during the war. Today the luxurious and chic interiors make a welcome retreat after a day sightseeing in the cold.

An entry-level room starts at £52 per night and there are various larger rooms available, with 46 rooms in total. We were lucky enough to experience one of the spacious, higher end suites, kitted out with useful amenities and quirky artwork by Polish photographer-artist Rita Zimmerman. Interior Designer Mariola Tomczak has created light and warmth with natural oak flooring, bold detailing and attractive but subtle colours.

Our luxury suite had a large separate lounge area with comfortable sofas and a high-tech internet-enabled TV. The bathroom had a powerful shower and indulgent bath with toiletries provided by French brand L’Occitane. The bedroom had a lovely relaxing feel and the huge bed was extremely comfortable. We also made good use of the kitchenette and Nespresso machine, calling reception for hot milk to make an in-room cappuccino. The only negative was the unpleasant smell of cigarettes in the suite when we arrived, surprising considering it is a non-smoking hotel.

Although there isn’t a dedicated hotel concierge, the staff at the front desk can guide you to local attractions and eating places – I can particularly recommend Kraken Rum Bar for lunch and Salto fine dining restaurant for dinner. We didn’t try it but H15’s restaurant Signature is apparently popular with Warsaw foodies.

For design-savvy travellers this boutique hotel stands out amongst the mega-brand and traditional hotels of Warsaw.

More information and book a room here.