The Posh Life: London

GET THERE
Splurge on a lie-flat Club World seat on British Airways for the overnight six-hour flight (from $3,000 one-way).

STAY
The name, Dorchester Collection, whispers “covetable.” It’s three hotels, all different, all fabulous. Opt for the Dorchester (from $415 per night) if you prefer your bedding-down to be traditional and canopied, but please, act reserved when you spot men in black suits with earpieces—very important people stay here. In the countryside splendor of Coworth Park (from $370 per night), riding boots are de rigueur, and you can select your steed from on-site stables. Finally, at sleek, high-tech 45 Park Lane (from $610 per night), all room amenities are a touch-screen swipe away, but you still get those homey English touches, such as a menu of bubble baths that can be drawn at your request.

EAT/DRINK
Afternoon tea is a must, and while the Ritz gets all the press, it’s the Dorchester’s that’s the real winner. The hotel also boasts its own branch of the famed Alain Ducasse—book the private Table Lumière (located in the dining room, surrounded by a curtain of lights), where you get to pick the Hermès china pattern for your table. Only the clueless leave London without stopping for curry; try the contemporary Red Fort in Soho for Indian dishes that don’t overwhelm.

EXPLORE
“The Queen: Art & Image” runs through October 21st at the National Portrait Gallery, to celebrate Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee.

SHOP
After popping into grand department-store doyenne Harrods, head down Brompton Road for boutiques like Whistles, where Kate Middleton once (gasp!) bought her own blouse.

RELAX
Condé Nast Traveler recently ranked the spa at Coworth Park as the fifth best in the world. After your treatment ($160 facial with “diamond dusting,” anyone?), keep calm and carry on to the spa’s tranquil pool.