The Leonardo Royal Hotel London City offered me a delightful stay filled with stunning views, luxurious amenities, and moments of exceptional service. However, my stay also revealed a few minor issues that could be addressed to elevate the hotel’s experience further.
A Royal Welcome & Suite Views
Upon arriving at the hotel, an hour before check-in time, I was warmly greeted and promptly checked in. The lobby’s spaciousness and elegant design immediately impressed me. My suite on the 12th floor boasted breathtaking views of iconic landmarks – the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the Shard. The living room was beautifully appointed with comfortable seating, a TV, London-inspired artwork, and a magnificent chandelier. The bedroom featured a king-sized bed, two wardrobes, a minibar, and plenty of charging ports.
A Suite of Amenities
This well-equipped suite offered everything a traveler might need: a flat-screen TV, a writing desk, iron and ironing board, complimentary toiletries, a choice of bath or shower, hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, and a generous discount on meals. I also appreciated the complimentary newspaper, unlimited Wi-Fi, mineral water, coffee and tea maker, and telephone.
Personal Touches & Unexpected Discoveries
A handwritten welcome note and a sweet treat were delightful surprises that added a personal touch to my stay. It was as if the hotel knew I had a sweet tooth!
A Few Imperfections
The bathroom, adorned with marble tiles and floor heating, initially wowed me with its timeless design. However, upon closer inspection, I noticed some signs of wear and tear. Cracked tiles and poorly filled joints in the shower area detracted from the otherwise luxurious feel. This aspect, unfortunately, fell short of the suite’s high standards.
Breakfast at Leo’s: A Mixed Experience
The breakfast buffet at Leo’s was a feast for the senses, featuring a variety of English and continental options. However, my first encounter with a seemingly disengaged staff member slightly marred the experience. Thankfully, other colleagues were attentive and provided excellent service.
Staff Engagement: A Missed Opportunity
While most staff members were attentive and helpful, there were times when the level of engagement could have been more consistent, particularly in the lobby area. This discrepancy in attentiveness highlighted the difference between the service expected in a 5-star establishment and a 4-star hotel.
An Evening to Remember: Dining at Leo’s
My dining experience at Leo’s on a Thursday evening was a highlight. Kostas, the amiable staff member, not only found me a great table but also engaged in lively conversations, switching between English and German. The fish and chips were exceptional, and the service was impeccable. Kostas deserves a special mention for making the evening memorable.
A Heartwarming Farewell
Upon checking out, I received a lovely parting gift – a bottle of red wine. Though I couldn’t enjoy it due to travel constraints, this thoughtful gesture was a heartwarming end to my stay.
A Memorable Stay with Room for Improvement
The Leonardo Royal Hotel London City’s stunning views, well-appointed suites, and mostly commendable service made for a memorable stay. 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. These small gestures often leave the most significant impact, making one overlook minor flaws. As I reflect on my stay, I feel a sense of satisfaction and will consider returning to Leonardo Royal Hotel in the future, hoping they will continue to uphold and improve their standards of hospitality. See you soon, Leonardo 😉
