CitizenM, a hotel chain that I had heard whispers of, became my new favorite London accommodation. I was on a work trip, a familiar routine of overnight stays and routine explorations, but this time, it felt different. CitizenM was a breath of fresh air in the sometimes predictable world of chain hotels.
A Design Haven
My colleague and I found ourselves in Southwark, a vibrant area south of the Thames. CitizenM was our chosen abode, and we were pleasantly surprised. We entered a spacious lobby, not the typical sterile space you often encounter. There was a stylish lounge area, a welcoming bar, and a dining zone, all blending seamlessly. But what truly captured our attention was the bold pop art, the whimsical sculpture, and the sweeping circular staircase. It felt like entering a contemporary art gallery, a welcome departure from the ordinary.
A Room Fit for Royalty
But the real magic resided in the rooms. It’s an understatement to say they were cool. Each room was equipped with a ridiculously comfortable king-size bed, creating a haven for ultimate relaxation. And let’s not forget the huge LED TV, perfectly positioned for cozy movie nights. Speaking of movies, there was a vast library of free films available, making it easy to settle in for a night of cinematic bliss.
Smart Tech for a Personalized Experience
The bathroom, though small, was sleek and stylish, boasting a luxurious rainforest shower head. The iPad control was the pièce de résistance, allowing us to control virtually everything: the blinds, curtains, lights, TV, movies, and even the mood of the room.
With a variety of mood lights that changed with a tap on the iPad, I could customize my space. I was even able to set the lighting, color, curtains, and temperature with pre-programmed filters, creating a perfectly curated ambiance. The “movie” filter transformed the room into a private cinema, making those rom-coms even more enjoyable.
A Touch of Personalization
The room also offered functional wardrobe space, free stationery, and a range of connectivity options including USB, UK, and EU sockets. It was clear that CitizenM was meticulously designed to cater to every need, from tech-savvy travelers to those who simply desire comfort and convenience.
A Warm and Welcoming Staff
The self-service check-in was quick and easy, but the staff was readily available to answer any questions. They went above and beyond, such as offering a warm chat about hotel facilities and even lending a helping hand when I needed an adapter.
A Breakfast to Remember
The breakfast was a highlight. My colleague was delighted when hers was complimentary, thanks to the friendly staff. I opted for the full cooked breakfast, while she enjoyed a simple bagel.
A Hotel that Feels Like Home
I’ve stayed in countless hotels, but CitizenM is truly different. The tech-savvy features, the comfortable bed, and the free movies created an experience that felt like a relaxing evening at home, even while I was away on business.
CitizenM, you’ve stolen my heart. I am now a Citizen John, forever a fan.
