Elite Traveler March-April 2016

elite traveler MAR/APR 2016 25

LITTLE BLACK BOOK: Washington, DC

Elite pick Private members’ clubs are 10-a-penny these days, particularly in London. But we’re still a sucker for the grand old ones, which is why we were excited to learn that The Arts Club, the Georgian townhouse in the heart of Mayfair established in 1863 by Charles Dickens, has had an elegant makeover. Sixteen new suites fit for a king have been added (did we mention that HRH Prince Phillip is the patron of the club?) Our check-in of choice is the glorious 1,162 sq ft Penthouse Suite, with a private roof terrace, dining for up to 12 and a 24-hour butler. Rich wood surfaces and fresh, pastel tones combine for a strikingly modern look. We also love the Art Deco bathroom, with polishedmarble surfaces and antique bronze doors. From $5,995 per night theartsclub.co.uk

Lynn Jason, concierge at the Mandarin Oriental, Washington, DC, opens her little black book and shares her top three venues in the city

The Penthouse Suite's living room (above) and bathroom (left) at The Arts Club

Best nightcap: A Salt Air Margarita at barmini by José Andrés, in the Penn Quarter. This so-called cocktail lab has great décor, creative drinks and snacks, plus it's very exclusive. minibarbyjoseandres.com

Best restaurant: The Riggsby on New Hampshire Avenue. It has a creative take on old favorites (try the Fresh Spaghetti). The retro atmosphere makes you feel like you’re walking onto the set of Mad Men. theriggsby.com

Best kept secret: President Lincoln’s

Cottage – most people don’t know the Lincolns had a summer place here. It’s only 20 minutes by car, but you’ll travel 150 years back in time. Great for weekends out of town. lincolncottage.org

TAKE THREE/// PRIVATE CARIBBEAN ISLANDS

MUSHA CAY RESORT The Bahamas

NECKER ISLAND British Virgin Islands

PETIT ST VINCENT The Grenadines

Five guesthouses are spread over 700 acres in this tropical haven, each with its own private beach, so even when holidaying with friends you can escape and make like Robinson Crusoe. The outdoor cinema with a two story screen is a highlight. Sleeps 24 guests. From $39,000 per night

Sir Richard Branson’s home has all you’d expect from a paradise getaway – roaming flamingos to a floating sushi bar. Choose from two floodlit tennis courts, two freshwater infinity pools and watersports. Up to 34 can stay, serviced by a team of 100 staff. $78,000 per night for exclusive use virginlimitededition.com/ necker-island

The oenophile’s choice, Petit St Vincent has an impressive cellar – choose frommore than 4,500 fine wines and champagne. The eco-friendly island is also home to a state-of-the-art dive center and two open-air yoga pavilions. Up to 56 guests can be hosted here. From $27,200 per night for exclusive use petitstvincent.com

for exclusive use mushacay.com

Words: Alix O'Neill