Let’s dive into the details of my stay at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City! I recently had the opportunity to spend a few days at this renowned hotel, and I can honestly say it was a delightful and insightful experience. As someone who values the little things in hospitality, I was eager to discover what the Leonardo Royal had to offer.
A Warm Welcome & Breathtaking Views
Upon arriving an hour early, I was warmly welcomed by the reception staff. The hotel’s lobby is spacious and elegantly designed, creating a welcoming atmosphere with comfortable seating options. The check-in process was smooth, and the staff efficiently provided me with all the necessary information and my key card.
My home for the next few days was Room 1207, a suite on the 12th floor. The suite was a delight to step into, with a small but practical kitchenette leading to a living room. The floor-to-ceiling windows offered breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and The Shard. The living room was tastefully furnished with comfy sofas, a coffee table, a TV, London-inspired artwork, and a dazzling chandelier.
The adjoining bedroom boasted a massive king-sized bed, also offering those incredible views. The room was well-equipped with ample storage, a mini-bar, a safe, and numerous power outlets with USB charging ports – a thoughtful touch for modern travelers!
Amenities & Thoughtful Touches
The suite was brimming with amenities designed to cater to every need. From a flat-screen TV to a writing desk, an iron and ironing board, complimentary toiletries, a choice between a bathtub or shower, a hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers, and a generous 10% discount on lunch and dinner, the Leonardo Royal had it all!
The thoughtful touches didn’t stop there. A complimentary newspaper, unlimited WiFi, free mineral water, a coffee and tea maker, and a telephone were all at my disposal. And then there was the delightful surprise: a handwritten welcome note and a sweet treat! It was a small gesture that made me feel truly welcomed and appreciated.
Bathroom Bliss with a Few Flaws
The spacious bathroom, adorned with white marble tiles and a chic black border, initially impressed me with its timeless design and floor heating. However, upon closer inspection, some signs of wear and tear became apparent. Cracked tiles, poorly filled joints, and damaged enamel in the shower area unfortunately detracted from the otherwise luxurious feel. This aspect, unfortunately, fell short of the suite’s high standards.
A Breakfast Buffet with Room for Improvement
Breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant, Leo’s, was a feast for the senses, offering a diverse buffet catering to all tastes. From classic English breakfast staples to continental choices like pancakes, omelets, fresh fruit, and a wide array of bread, the selection was impressive. However, my first experience at breakfast was slightly marred by a staff member who seemed disengaged. Fortunately, this was later compensated by the attentive service of other colleagues.
Staff Attentiveness: A Mixed Bag
The staff, for the most part, were attentive and helpful. But there were instances where 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 at Leo’s
My dining experience at Leo’s on a Thursday evening was a highlight of my stay. Kostas, a friendly staff member, not only found me a fantastic table but also engaged in lively conversations, effortlessly 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 so memorable.
A Sweet Farewell & Overall Impressions
Upon checking out, I was pleasantly surprised to receive a lovely parting gift: a bottle of red wine. Even though I couldn’t enjoy it due to my travel plans, this gesture was a heartwarming end to my stay, leaving a lasting positive impression despite some minor issues encountered.
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. 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 would consider returning to the Leonardo Royal Hotel in the future, hoping that they will continue to uphold and improve their standards of hospitality. See you soon, Leonardo! 😉
