Preface: On my way to Krakow which leaves out of Gatwick daily only.

Status: Platinum.

Rate: Earned free night.

Transportation: I purchased a Oyster card at the LHR ticket booth for the underground. The deposit is 3 GBP and you can of course top up. Took the Piccadilly line in. Not sure about doing that again. Packed and very little ventilation. The Heathrow Express may be more to my liking. Conservative side says not.

Parking: n/a

Check-in: I had really been looking forward to returning here. I have stayed a couple of times paid in the past but the rates now are just crazy. I knew before I left SEA that I had been upgraded to Executive type room which is supposed to have better views.

At check-in the agent at least made a effort to check for a suite. Of course nothing. Then made "effort" to find the Executive room I knew I already had. That's when I kinda wondered about the effort. Another Plat next to me was really trying to work it. I ended up waiting over 90 minutes for the room to be cleaned. Finally walked up and got the keys after being told the agent would bring them to me in the bar. Service here is marginal. I called down for some information and the phone just rang and rang and rang. Now a alarm is going off for something down the hall.

Offered amenity and took points. Will probably have to fight for those.

Perks: Received newly renovated room on high floor with view of London eye and Hyde Park.

Lounge: None here but interesting they are circulating a survey asking Ps if we would like one.

Room: The rooms have been described before. The inside has been totally redone but of course the shell is the same. Not real modern but stylish for today. The wrap around desk and sofa are against the window. There are numerous ports near the desk to a/v input to the flat panel tv and a whole host of outlets for electricity. There is one bottle of comp water in the frig.

Bathroom: These have been redone and have Molton Brown small size amenities. There is a separate shower and tub with a single basin sink. Have two robes and slippers so not bad.

Internet: Internet was 18 GBP for 24 hours. I am tired so bought the package for 30 GBP and watching the Bond film for the millionth time. Gonna find food and get to sleep because need to be out of here early.

Gym: Assume there is one somewhere.

Spa: ?

Eating venues: Had a drink in the bar while waiting. Interesting just sitting there and watching people.

Local markets: Discussed before.

Local area: Also discussed.

Negatives: No economic slowdown here. The place is packed and that is good. I think service is marginal at best. I have little things left around the room and the clock is set now at 3 PM which it is not. The hotel remains dated and of course not the perfect location. I do not expect much from hotels in London and this is why. Worth the experience.

Closing: Would not stay again. Been here and done that. Again. Regards from LHR.