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They say not to judge on appearances, but I think you can make an exception for the London Hilton on Park Lane.
It is luxury on another level, caters to the exclusive and is everything you expect it to be.
Just a short walk from Green Park, in sophisticated Mayfair district, the five-star flagship is right at home among on-point fashion boutiques and exclusive eateries.
Our base for the weekend was the Park Lane suite – and it really was the sweet life.
The bedroom and living area, plus a walk in wardrobe, are top notch, but it is the stunning views which really give the wow factor.
And if you can drag yourself away from watching the hustle and bustle of London, why not pay a visit to Spa to You to get you ready for a night out up town?
It takes relaxation to another level and offers a variety of treatments to get you looking and feeling your best.
I opted for a fruit-based facial, but if you really want to push the boat out give the Japanese Nightingale Dropping Facial a whirl.
It’s not cheap – £180 a go – but it’s said to contain a natural enzyme to lighten and cleanse skin. The treatment is traditionally used for Geisha and Kabuki actors in Japan.
If you’d prefer not to venture out too far to eat, look no further than the hotel itself and its choice of elegant offerings.
We decided to visit the legendary Trader Vic’s for dinner, which gives a Tiki twist to meal times.
Top picks include Beef Malagasy – a fillet steak, sautéed mushrooms and roasted vine tomatoes – and the chocolate pecan pie with bourbon toffee sauce, served with vanilla ice cream.
It is a unique dining experience with its authentic artefacts and exotic atmosphere.
Another thing that sets it apart from other eateries is its Chinese wood-fired ovens, which can be traced back to the Han Dynasty.
Meats and seafood are hung from hooks and slowly cooked over a hardwood fire, producing an original flavour.
The London institution is perhaps best known as the home of the Mai Tai cocktail, which, delicious as it was, was pipped to the top spot for me by the Kamaiina.
Served in a cup shaped like a coconut, it was one of the nicest things I’ve ever tasted – coconut, gin, triple sec and a hint of citrus.
As with the rest of the hotel, the staff at Trader Vic’s are attentive without being intrusive.
If there was ever a masterclass in the craft of excellent service, the London Hilton on Park Lane is at the top of its game, setting the bar for others to follow.
For more information, or to book, visit http://bit.ly/1DLNue1