It’s a rarity for me to stay in a hotel in London, England. To be honest their prices often put me off and I so I usually stay with family on my short trips there.
Well that’s was all before I experienced Claridge’s.
This is true British hospitality at its best and staying there makes you feel like you are a cast member of Downton Abbey with its’ impeccably formal and polished service throughout.
The lobby and tea room are designed for pure opulence with an antique decor that’s paired with the type of unwavering upkeep that you would expect in an estate. The high ceilings and intricate designs impart a true feeling of grandeur.
Service was second to none throughout my stay with an extremely knowledgeable staff from check in to maid service.
The rooms are beautifully decorated. I had the chance to be in a suite that felt more like a London palace with 3 bathrooms, a living room, 2 bedrooms and a hallway. There was a large writer’s desk in the living room which I enjoyed and the beds were extremely comfortable. The design imbued a sense of classic London style that is meticulously kept up to date.
Room service was maybe the most expensive I have ever seen with main courses starting at $60 USD, and that’s after the pound has weakened. However breakfast impressed me. I am only used to this level of service at 5 star hotels in Hong Kong. I honestly thought that it was from a bygone era but Claridge’s obviously didn’t get that email. And thank goodness, they have lovingly maintained an old school service with precision.
The smoked salmon and scrambled eggs were marvelous. I am always conscious of what I eat so I try to eat paleo and even though my latest book allows weekends off, I seldom take a break. So when I said no toast and the server offered avocado instead, I knew I was in a great hotel. She instantly understood that I was avoiding carbs and had the alternative right at hand. I can’t tell you how impressed I was.
The high teas were packed with glamorous people and so it made for great people watching. It was a shame to check out as I loved my stay there. It was like stepping back in time and being made to feel like royalty.
Hats off to Claridge’s.
Daniel Green, the Model Cook is a Celebrity Chef known for his healthy approach to food and living well. With TV, books, magazines and live appearances, Daniel spends his time helping fans to cook better, feel better and live better. He’s also an avid traveler and a self-confessed Foodie.
To contact Daniel or learn more visit www.themodelcook.com or follow on Twitter and Facebook.
