For the Royal Treatment, Corinthia Hotel London

I wanted to be treated like a Royal in London. As it seemed Buckingham Palace was not taking reservations during my stay, I selected the next best thing, the Corinthia Hotel London...and so my Royal journey began.

Coming to life in 1885 as the Metropole Hotel, this property has a rich and compelling history. The property was taken over by the British government during both world wars, and served as the British Military Intelligence during World War II. It was from this building that prisoner of war escapes were planned, government records of UFO sightings were kept and Churchill watched Armistice Day celebrations. Much of this history remains ingrained throughout the property today as a reminder of a time gone by.

Sold in 2007, it got a face lift and reopened in 2011 as the 5-star Corinthia Hotel London. History and modern technology got married to form the most elegant contemporary hotel that London has to offer, thus setting new standards in lavishness and contemporary luxury.

Elegant, classic, beautiful and plush, the Corinthia Hotel London is perfect for discerning guests who want to stay at the centre of it all without compromising on luxury. It regularly plays host to aristocrats and royalty, with its much coveted location, steps from Trafalgar Square, Westminster, Covent Garden, the London Eye and the theater district. Elegant, classic, beautiful and plush, the Corinthia Hotel London is perfect for discerning guests who want to stay at the center of it all without compromising on luxury.

The main highlight when one first enters this magnificent property is the full moon Baccarat chandelier of 1001 crystal baubles. The enormous shimmering vision of the chandelier from above, glows with a white incandescence that appears to float down from a central dome. This magical halo was created by Baccarat specifically for the Corinthia and forms the setting for the hotel's classic afternoon tea.

Standard rooms are impressively large, furnished in a refined palet of beige and cream, with silk accent throw pillows in a bright aubergine. The all marble bathroom comes with twin vanity units and a large bathtub is adorned with a built-in flat screen television.

It's the little things that make this hotel special. The techno lighting system allows controls for all fixtures at the touch of a button. A lavender scented sachet is placed delicately on each pillow, nightly. Complimentary shoe shine returns shoes looking like new. The room service is obliging, courteous, speedy and with a smile.

The penthouses are absolutely exceptional, and mark the crowning glory of the luxury experience. Each suite is uniquely furnished representing a different theme such as the Musician's Penthouse and the Explorer's Penthouse. The Royal Penthouse offers 5,000 square feet and is the largest two-bedroom luxury residence in London. Its terrace offers panoramic views of the River Thames, the London Eye and the breathtaking city. The furnishings and amenities are majestic, with a private butler's kitchen, full dining room and conference facility including full screen audio-visual equipment. These quarters are perfect for lavish entertaining or dinner parties.

The ESPA Life at Corinthia is a spa that sets this hotel apart. This facility is unmatched, with 17 treatment rooms, indoor pool, vitality jacuzzi with pulsating blasts of water, a glass enclosed sauna. The design is sensual and inviting with black granite floors, flickering fireplaces set between glass walls, and heated marble lounge beds. The state-of-the art gym is impressively equipped by any standard, including a sports injury and rehab clinic.

The hotel is anchored by two grand and gleaming restaurants. The Northall, overseen by Michelin-starred chef Garry Hollihead, offers traditional British cuisine, garnished with the finest organic ingredients from across the country. Massimo is the popular restaurant of Italian chef, Massimo Riccioli, offering an upscale brasserie menu inspired by maritime, with oysters and lobster as standard favorites.

A visit to the Corinthia Hotel London will leave guests feeling indulgent and pampered. While in London this Royal experience is a treat that won't disappoint.