(This section introduces the article and the hotel in question. It highlights the author’s experience and sets the stage for the review.)
From December 19th to the 22nd, I had the privilege of staying at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City, a hotel that offered a blend of comfort, convenience, and London charm. As a discerning traveler who values personalized service and breathtaking views, I was excited to experience this well-regarded hotel firsthand.
Arriving in Style: A Welcoming Lobby and Seamless Check-in
(This section talks about the initial impressions of the hotel, including the lobby and the check-in experience.)
My journey began with a smooth arrival at the hotel at 2 pm, an hour before the standard check-in time, thanks to my pre-booked early check-in option. The reception area greeted me with a warm welcome and an inviting ambiance. The lobby’s spacious layout and elegant design, complete with comfortable seating, instantly caught my attention. The check-in process was efficient and friendly, with the staff providing all the necessary information and my key card without any hassle.
A Suite with a View: Room 1207
(This section provides a detailed description of the suite, including its amenities, features, and the breathtaking view.)
Room 1207, a suite situated on the 12th floor, became my temporary home for the next few days. As I stepped into the suite, I was greeted by a compact but functional kitchenette, leading to a spacious living room adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows that offered a breathtaking panorama. The Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the Shard were all within my view, making every moment in the suite feel like a postcard-worthy experience. The living room was tastefully furnished with two comfortable sofas, a coffee table, a TV, London-inspired artwork, and an impressive chandelier that added a touch of elegance to the space.
The adjacent bedroom featured a king-sized bed that promised restful nights, with the same stunning views as the living room. Two wardrobes provided ample storage space, while a minibar, safe, and numerous power outlets with USB charging ports catered to the modern traveler’s needs.
Luxurious Amenities with a Touch of Personalization
(This section discusses the suite’s amenities and the personal touches that enhanced the stay.)
The suite was packed with luxurious amenities, including a flat-screen TV, a writing desk, an iron and ironing board, complimentary toiletries, a choice between a bathtub or shower, a hairdryer, a bathrobe, slippers, and a generous 10% discount on lunch and dinner. Additional perks included a free newspaper, unlimited Wifi, complimentary mineral water, a coffee & tea maker, and a telephone, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
But it was the handwritten welcome note and a sweet treat that truly made my heart melt. This personal touch, perfectly tailored to my love for cake, added a unique charm to my stay. It was a delightful surprise that made me feel truly appreciated.
A Glimpse of Imperfection: Minor Maintenance Concerns
(This section addresses a minor issue with the bathroom’s condition.)
While the spacious bathroom, adorned with white marble tiles and a chic black border, impressed me with its timeless design and floor heating, it did have its share of imperfections. Upon closer inspection, I noticed signs of wear and tear, including cracked tiles, poorly filled joints, and damaged enamel in the shower area. This aspect, unfortunately, fell short of the otherwise high standards of the suite.
Breakfast Delights with Mixed Service
(This section talks about the breakfast experience and highlights both positive and negative aspects of the staff’s attentiveness.)
Breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant, Leo’s, was a delightful affair with a buffet that catered to a variety of tastes. From traditional English breakfast options to continental choices like pancakes, omelets, fresh fruits, and an assortment of bread, the selection was truly impressive. However, my first encounter with a staff member at breakfast left me slightly disappointed, as they seemed disengaged. This was later compensated by the attentive service of other colleagues.
A Mixed Bag of Staff Engagement: A 5-Star Standard vs. A 4-Star Reality
(This section analyzes the staff’s attentiveness and contrasts it with the service expected in a 5-star hotel.)
While the staff, for the most part, were attentive and helpful, there were instances where their level of engagement could have been more consistent, particularly in the lobby area. This inconsistency highlighted the difference between the high service standards expected in a 5-star establishment and a 4-star hotel like the Leonardo Royal. It’s a crucial aspect to consider, as guest interaction and attentiveness are key elements of any hotel experience.
A Memorable Evening at Leo’s: Dining with a Touch of German Hospitality
(This section describes a delightful dining experience at Leo’s restaurant.)
My dining experience at Leo’s on a Thursday evening was a highlight of my stay. Kostas, the friendly staff member, not only found me a great table but also engaged me in lively conversations, seamlessly switching between English and German. The fish and chips I ordered were exceptional, as was the service. Kostas deserves a special mention for making the evening memorable with his warm hospitality and engaging personality.
A Sweet Farewell and a Lasting Impression
(This section describes the parting gift and the overall impression of the stay.)
As I prepared for my departure, I was delighted to receive a lovely parting gift – a bottle of red wine. Although I couldn’t indulge in it due to my travel constraints, this gesture was a heartwarming end to my stay, leaving a lasting positive impression despite some minor issues.
A Royal Stay with Room for Growth
(This section summarizes the overall experience and highlights areas for improvement.)
The Leonardo Royal Hotel London City offered a memorable stay with its stunning views, well-appointed suites, and mostly commendable service. While there were areas where improvements could be made, particularly in the upkeep of the bathrooms and consistency in staff engagement, the overall experience was positive. The personal touches, like the handwritten note and the parting gift, added a unique charm to the stay, demonstrating a genuine commitment to guest satisfaction. As I reflect on my stay, I feel a sense of satisfaction and will consider returning to Leonardo Royal Hotel in the future, hoping that they will continue to uphold and improve their standards of hospitality. See you soon, Leonardo 😉
