FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - Andaz Liverpool Street - London - REVIEW - MASTER THREAD
Old Jan 24, 2014 | 6:27 pm
  #359  
Darren
10 Countries Visited20 Countries Visited30 Countries Visited20 Years on Site
 
Join Date: Sep 2000
Location: Circle City
Posts: 3,568
We spent five nights at the Andaz over Christmas and could not have enjoyed the stay more. After arriving on an early flight, we were warmly greeted by the staff who provided us with a place to freshen up before heading out for the day. The warmth of the staff stood out throughout the entire stay. Even on Christmas, when no one wants to work, the staff were friendly and seemed genuinely happy to be there. The suite was quirky but very nice. It was done in reds, whites, and blacks with a white subway tiled bathroom. There was a bit of noise from the vacuum drainage system and the room above, but nothing that anyone living in a city like NY or London would not expect now and again, particularly from a building of that age. The room had a Nespresso machine, a minibar, and snacks. The minibar is complementary except for alcohol. The breakfast was served in the Eastway Restaurant for three mornings and the 1901 for two. Although we enjoyed the elegance of 1901, we actually liked dining in the Eastway better because of the windows facing the street. The quality of the food was excellent, pastries fresh, good selection of English, American, and continental fare. We also ate one evening in Eastway, which is more casual, and the food was tasty then as well. We ducked into George and the Champagne Bar, but it was late so we didn't stay and they were closed after that for the holidays. Both were jumping and looked like a good time. The lobby was nice in the usual Andaz way. They commissioned a local artist to decorate for the holidays so everything was Christmas monkeys. I honestly didn't get the connection between Christmas and monkeys, but that's not the fault of the hotel and it nevertheless was fun and kitchy. They had theme snacks in the lobby each evening like banana bread, banana chips, and mulled wine. There is also a little enclave with a table and drinks for people to relax. These types of little extras are, in my opinion, what sets Andaz out as a brand. Many compare it to the W, but I don't like the W because it's all form over function and, frankly, I find the staff to be pretentious unless you are a svelte 28 year old dressed in all black. The Andaz has a better balance of form and function, effectively melding style with usability, and I have always felt like a valued guest during my stays. The Liverpool property was no different. The area is very central and very convenient. There are a number of good pubs nearby and the Liverpool station is next door. Having a major station there ensures cabs are always available.

I would return in a London minute, mostly because of the hotel's staff and excellent facilities and services, all of which reflect the quality of the hotel's management.
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