Before it was a hotel, this Park Lane address had already lived a few lives. The house that once stood here served as the American Embassy and a hospital during the First World War. Years after the hotel opened, Eisenhower stayed here while planning the Normandy invasion. Today, The Dorchester is one of those hotels that makes you feel unmistakably in London. You’re steps from Mayfair, looking out over Hyde Park, surrounded by color, pattern and a little bit of old-school glamour. And the food and drink are reason enough to visit. I love walking into the flower-filled Promenade, heading to the buzzy Vesper Bar for an evening drink, or settling into The Grill for breakfast. Then there’s Cake & Flowers next door, which is such a lovely stop for a little gift, even if you’re a London local. Guests can also use the pool at sister hotel 45 Park Lane, just nearby. It’s a rather good way to have two London hotels at your fingertips. We know the team here well, and when you book The Dorchester...