Welcome to my London adventures! I’m sharing my recent experience at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City, and let me tell you, it was a journey filled with breathtaking views, stylish accommodations, and a touch of London charm.
A Grand Entrance and a Suite with a View
My journey began with a warm welcome at the reception. The lobby was spacious and elegant, with comfy seating areas perfect for relaxing. Check-in was a breeze, and I was thrilled to receive my key card for Room 1207, a suite on the 12th floor!
The suite itself was a dream. Stepping inside, I was greeted by a kitchenette, leading into a living room with floor-to-ceiling windows. The view was simply stunning – the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and The Shard were all right there, showcasing London’s iconic skyline. The living room was a cozy haven, complete with plush sofas, a coffee table, a TV, and stylish London-inspired artwork. A magnificent chandelier added a touch of elegance to the space.
The bedroom was just as luxurious, featuring a king-sized bed offering the same breathtaking views. It was a perfect space to unwind after a day of exploring the city. The room was equipped with everything a traveler could need: wardrobes, a minibar, a safe, and plenty of power outlets with USB charging ports – a thoughtful touch for the modern traveler.
Pampered by Amenities and Personalized Touches
The suite was filled with amenities designed to pamper you: a flat-screen TV, writing desk, iron and ironing board, complimentary toiletries, a choice of bathtub or shower, hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, and even a 10% discount on lunch and dinner. You’ll also find a free newspaper, unlimited Wifi, complimentary mineral water, a coffee & tea maker, and a telephone.
And get this – a handwritten welcome note and a sweet treat awaited me upon arrival. What a delightful surprise! It felt like they knew I had a sweet tooth!
Ups and Downs: A Touch of Wear and Tear
The bathroom was a beautiful space, adorned with white marble tiles and a chic black border. I loved the floor heating, but unfortunately, upon closer inspection, I noticed some signs of wear and tear. Cracked tiles, poorly filled joints, and damaged enamel in the shower area were a bit of a disappointment. While the suite was fantastic, it was a shame that these small imperfections tarnished the otherwise luxurious feel.
Breakfast with a View (and a Bit of a Mixed Bag)
Breakfast at the Hotel’s restaurant, Leo’s, was an expansive affair. The buffet offered a variety of options, from traditional English breakfast items to continental choices like pancakes, omelets, fresh fruits, and a selection of bread. However, my first experience was slightly marred by a staff member who seemed disengaged. Thankfully, other colleagues were attentive and provided excellent service.
A Mixed Bag: Service with a Smile, and Sometimes Not
The staff was generally attentive and helpful, but there were times when the level of engagement could have been more consistent, especially in the lobby area. It was a bit of a contrast to the level of service you might expect at a 5-star hotel like the Shangri-La.
Dining at Leo’s: An Evening to Remember
One of my favorite experiences was dining at Leo’s on a Thursday evening. Kostas, the amiable staff member, found me a great table and even engaged in lively conversations, switching between English and German! The fish and chips were exceptional, and the service was top-notch. Kostas deserves a special mention for making the evening so memorable.
A Heartwarming Farewell
On the day of my departure, I was surprised with a lovely parting gift – a bottle of red wine. While I couldn’t enjoy it due to travel constraints, this gesture was a heartwarming way to end my stay. It left a lasting positive impression, despite a few minor issues.
A Memorable Stay with Room for Improvement
The Leonardo Royal Hotel London City offers stunning views, well-appointed suites, and mostly commendable service. While there are 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 were a unique charm. These small gestures often leave the biggest impact. I left feeling satisfied and would definitely consider returning in the future. See you soon, Leonardo! 😉
