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City Inn Westminster
30 John Islip Street
London SW1P 4DD
Tel: 0207 630 1000
www.cityinn.com
A short but well earned Valentines break in London was required; one that would allow easy travel, comfortable and affordable accommodation and that would re-charge our batteries with a stress free stay Even more attractive was the provision of an underground car park, safe, secure and ideal to load up the results of any successful retail therapy a mere lift ride away from our extensive suite on the 12th floor with panoramic views across both river and the city. Romantic views with water in sight, the changing moods of the Thames and a special Valentines menu to enjoy, what could be better than this?
That was the very reason we chose the City Inn in Westminster, just behind Millbank and but a very short walk to the Houses of Parliament, ideally placed for travel throughout the capital city. Ultra modern and stylish this was really a very smooth operation highly organised from start to finish, it offered all we required and a few more innovations not seen before in our hotel travels.
Our suite was fully equipped, one of 460 rooms in the hotel, with a highly imaginative layout offering an array of pleasing and subtle touches. Modern light wood furniture was complemented by the cd player, large flat screen televisions and dvd players provided, with a library of opportunities for both music and films available at reception. A matching unit, complete with plugs and sockets ensured free internet access if required, ideal for the modern traveller or business user, with wireless connectivity available in rooms and all public areas including the lounge and terrace bars. The fully tiled bathroom was white, with matching towelling robes, fluffy towels and a most ample supply of shower gel, a large container fixed to the wall as opposed to tiny individual bottles which allow great waste over the course of a year. They also had anti-mist mirrors throughout, straight out of the shower and you can prepare for dinner immediately, not the usual ten minute wait until the mist clears.
Great touches!
Among the many items within the hotel room were the very ones which we ladies usually order when she arrives, or an hour before dinner. A fan of linen, it does not always travel well, and the crumpled look is not what you require when going to dine. Room service is usually required for the obligatory iron and ironing board. Not at City Inn, a purpose made matching cupboard held the items securely and tidily, another neat touch. Another was the provision of a wicker basket of items easily forgotten or mislaid by the traveller. Mouthwash, toothpaste, shoe cleaning kit and food items were available, simply sign against the item and help yourself. Inventive, innovate and most welcome.
We dined in the much acclaimed City Caf
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Alan McColm is QFOL's Restaurant Critic and Travel reviewer. Alan is working all over the country ... more
