Mama Shelter

Mama Shelter is a new hotel that opened in early-September in the 20th arrondissement in Paris.  Situated in the emerging neighbourhood of Saint Blaise, its clearly styled to attract a younger, urbanite crowd.

Created by the Trigano family (founders of Club Med) and French philosopher, Cyril Aouizerate, MAMA SHELTER was designed by Philippe Starck to offer an eclectic and electric ambiance thanks to its friendly, warm and casual common areas.  The rooms are sensual and elegant in design, each equipped with iMacs. 5 Star quality bedding offers you a serene retreat after a long day in the city and an evening across the street at the mythic Parisian temple of international live music, La Fleche d’Or.

The George Hotel Hamburg

There’s a new member of Design Hotels™ in town, but it’s not German - at least not in style anyway.  Interior designer Sibylle von Heyden of SynergyHamburg chose old, English-style social clubs as her inspiration for The George Hotel, combining classic sensibilities with modern design motifs.

Befitting of an English social club style, the hotel features a library, a smoker’s lounge complete with leather furniture, a sophisticated bar and an impressive restaurant serving Mediterranean fare.

It may be damp and grey in Europe (well it is here in Berlin anyway) but why let that stop us drooling over a new eyewear release - after all sunglasses are the essential travel accessory.

We just discovered Cassius Eyewear and we are loving the retro 60/70s style.  Designed by creative director and founder Jason Ng, Cassius fills a niche for avid vintage collectors and eyewear connoisseurs.

Cassius POLSHEK

Continentale, Florence

Mr & Mrs Smith is offering one winner the chance to jet off to Florence for two nights at the cool and contemporary Continentale.

As befits a visit to one of the world’s most cultured capitals, you’ll be setting off in style with a new set of Mandarina Duck luggage, crammed with £2,000-worth of high-fashion attire from Matches and a treasure-chest of effective skincare and pampering products, courtesy of REN.

To try your luck, visit the Mr and Mrs Smith competition site.