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Romance and chocolate...

SHELLEY MARSDEN checks into the world's only chocolate-themed hotel… - 09/02/10

Bournemouth might not strike you as the most romantic place to spend a weekend away with that special someone, but forget sticks of rock and amusements, and think delicious food, slow strolls by the sea – and the world’s only chocolate-themed hotel!

Its owners, friendly husband and wife team Gerry and Roo began in the chocolate fountain business (having provided them for, amongst other VIP events, Peter Andre and Jordan’s wedding), before realising three years ago that a themed hotel would be something unique that few had tried before.

Situated in the town’s trendy Soho Quarter (it’s less than 10 minutes to the sea), The Chocolate Boutique Hotel is a superb Grade II listed building with 13 chocolate-themed bedrooms. Each offers daily chocolate (heaven!), en-suite facilities, the usual mod-cons and full breakfast (check out the portrait – in chocolate – of owner Gerry in the breakfast room).

Doubles range from £120 to £160 per night and our room (Aztec), was very comfy and decorated with sophistication - all in chocolate shades, of course!

This is the ultimate hotel for chocolate lovers who want to indulge, and while you’re there you can also book yourself in for a Chocolate Workshop (they also run them in Birmingham, Coventry, Brighton, Bath, Oxford, London).

The hotel’s Chocolate Weekends include a 2-night stay, with breakfast and lunch both days and lots of chocolate! On Fridays at reception, stands a cascading chocolate fountain where you can dip marshmallows into Belgian chocolate. The delight continues with workshops and drinks from the hotel’s Chocolate Bar! Prices for these are from £299 per person (based on 2 sharing).

If you go away from here raving about your choccy experience, you could think about combining your fave food with a luxury cruise; P&0's Oriana was home for Gerry and his daughter’s inaugural chocolate cruise last year, and this April 2010 sees Chocolate Delight on board more cruise liners throughout the year!

A quirky concept and two extremely friendly and informed hosts make this a hotel people come back to time and time again.For more info and to book a room at this very special hotel, visit www.thechocolateboutiquehotel.co.uk, www.chocolatedelight.co.uk or call 01202 556857.