Belgravia, Smartest Streets in London — Photo courtesy of amandabhslaterBelgraves is just one of a new wave of boutique hotels that have been opening up in London this year in time for the Olympics.  The games might be mostly being held in the East of the capital, but the whole city is getting a look in.  London's Olympic committee has installed special Olympic lanes that run right across town, allowing members of the 'Olympic Family', athletes and VIPs to be ferried fast from their posh hotels in the West to the East for the competition.  That's a bit annoying for normal Londoners, but its great if you've booked a hotel in the plush and luxurious West and have to get across town fast.

Belgraves is run by the American Thompson company, and this hotel combines the best of Brooklyn chic and contemporary design with British nostalgia.  Socialite designer Tara Bernerd likes to scatter union jack cushions around her interiors, and British chef Mark Hix cranks up the British quotient too, which makes this place the perfect mix of both sides of the Atlantic.  

This is the first transAtlantic forray for the Thompson group, and they have perfectly interpreted their brand of bohemian cool in the British market.  In the Hix restaurant, you'll be treated to a Mark Hix round-the-world tour, with some of his favourite dishes from across the globe.  

The Belgraves' bathrooms are a sight for sore eyes, all grey and white marble; they'll make you want to take a very very very long bath, just to marvel at all that beauty.  After your soak, you can lie back and relax on 400 threat count sheets, dock your ipod, or sink into the pillows to watch your favourite shows on the LCD TV.  And if you're lucky enough to pop up to the penthouse, then you will be in 21st century's version of the seventies, in a perfectly judged interior.  A home from home, only better.