A luxurious stay in the heart of London? You bet! But every hotel, even the most opulent, has its quirks. Let me tell you about my experience at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City, which was a mix of both amazing moments and room for improvement.
Arriving at the Leonardo Royal
I arrived at the hotel an hour before the standard check-in time, having booked the early check-in and late check-out option. The lobby welcomed me with its spacious and elegant design – think comfortable seating and lots of space to relax. Check-in was a breeze, and the staff provided all the information I needed before handing me my key card. It felt like a smooth start to my stay.
Suite 1207: My London Home
My home for the next few days was Suite 1207, located on the 12th floor. Stepping into the suite, I was greeted by a small but efficient kitchenette. Next, I was blown away by the living room – floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of iconic London landmarks like the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the Shard. The living room was perfectly comfy with two sofas, a coffee table, a TV, and London-inspired artwork – it really felt like home.
The bedroom was right next door, featuring a massive king-sized bed with those same incredible views. It was beautifully equipped with everything a traveler needs – two wardrobes, a minibar, a safe, and loads of power outlets with USB charging ports, which was a lifesaver for my electronics.
Amenities Galore and a Sweet Surprise
The suite was packed with amenities, catering to every need – a flat-screen TV, writing desk, iron and ironing board, complimentary toiletries, a bathtub or shower, hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, and even a 10% discount on lunch and dinner. It was like a mini-spa!
And that’s not all! There was a free newspaper, unlimited Wifi, complimentary mineral water, a coffee and tea maker, and a telephone – everything you could possibly need for a comfortable stay. The best part? A handwritten welcome note and a sweet treat! It felt so personal. Did they know I had a sweet tooth?
Bathroom Bliss with a Touch of Wear and Tear
The spacious bathroom, decorated with elegant white marble tiles and a stylish black border, impressed me with its timeless design and floor heating. However, there was a slight downside – signs of wear and tear, which detracted from the luxurious feel. Cracked tiles, poorly filled joints, and damaged enamel in the shower area were a bit of a bummer. It was a shame, as it was the only area that didn’t quite match the rest of the suite’s high standards.
Breakfast at Leo’s: A Mixed Bag
The hotel’s restaurant, Leo’s, offered a huge breakfast buffet that catered to every taste. From traditional English breakfast items to continental favorites like pancakes, omelets, fresh fruits, and an array of bread, there was something for everyone. But, my first breakfast experience was a bit of a letdown. One staff member seemed disengaged, which was a shame, as the other colleagues were really attentive.
Service: A Mixed Bag, Too
The staff at the hotel, for the most part, were helpful and kind. But, there were some moments when the level of engagement wasn’t consistent, especially in the lobby area. The service felt slightly different from a five-star hotel like the Shangri-La, for example. It was noticeable when staff seemed more interested in chatting with each other than greeting guests.
Dinner at Leo’s: An Evening to Remember
My dinner experience at Leo’s on a Thursday evening was an absolute highlight. Kostas, the friendly staff member, found me a fantastic table and engaged in lively conversations, switching between English and German. The fish and chips were delicious, and the service was top-notch. Kostas deserves a huge shoutout for making the evening so memorable.
A Touch of Generosity: A Wine-derful Farewell
On the day of my check-out, I was given a lovely parting gift – a bottle of red wine. While I couldn’t enjoy it due to my travel plans, the gesture was a heartwarming end to my stay, leaving a lasting positive impression despite some minor issues.
My Final Thoughts: A Memorable Stay with Room for Improvement
Overall, the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City’s stunning views, well-appointed suites, and mostly commendable service made for a memorable stay. There were a few areas where the hotel could improve, like the bathroom maintenance and staff consistency, but the overall experience was positive. The personal touches, like the handwritten note and the parting gift, added a special charm. These small gestures made me overlook the minor flaws.
Looking back, I’m satisfied with my stay and would definitely consider returning to the Leonardo Royal Hotel in the future, hoping they continue to uphold and improve their hospitality standards. See you soon, Leonardo! 😉
