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Luxury Living in London: 51 Buckingham GateBy Barbara Ballard
Three re-invented Victorian and Edwardian mansion buildings dating from 1897 make up the hotel's suites and apartments. The Kings, Ministers and Falconers buildings each have their own unique design and style. The Falconers offer one and two bedroom suites decorated in tones of sand and gold. The Ministers have traditionally decorated rooms done in reds and greens and have up to three-bedroom accommodation. The Kings section is decorated in contemporary hotel styling with one to five bedrooms (ideal for families). All have kitchens equipped with fridges, microwaves and dishes. For long stayers, the washer/dryer comes in handy for renewing your travel wardrobe.
One thing I especially liked about the hotel was the fact that early morning arrival is available—great after a 10-hour flight. I couldn’t fault having a butler service to attend to the needs of the suites either. Shopping is always in order in London, and the hotel provides a car service to both Harrod’s and Oxford street shops. The hotel, owned by Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces, was awarded a RAC gold ribbon in 2001, signifying a commitment to customer care and service. 51 Buckingham Gate |
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TM
51
Buckingham Gate Suites and Apartments takes its name from its street address
in the heart of Westminster, London. It’s conveniently located a five-minute
walk from Buckingham Palace, the Queen’s Gallery, the Royal Mews, and St
James Park. Victoria Station and St James's Park tube station are located
nearby.
The five star apartment hotel is part of a complex that
includes the Crowne Plaza London St James Hotel & Suites. Entrance to 51
Buckingham Gate is through an arch leading to a private, stunning courtyard
complete with fountain and flowers, and pillared porches. This is a
beautiful and tranquil area that seems a million miles from the hustle of
London.
Along
one side of the courtyard a building houses the Club at St James' Court, a
Shiseido Qi Salon (the Qi method focuses on the important role that the
body's energy plays in a person's well-being), a great place to get relaxed
after a long flight. A fully equipped health club that includes a gym,
aerobics studio and sauna will energize you for delving into London’s
attractions. 
The apartment I stayed in was a large one bedroom done
in hotel style in shades of beige, brown and white. The very large living
room provided plenty of seating with two sofas. The room was well equipped
for entertainment with a large television, cd and video player. Business
amenities included a desk, telephone, fax machine, data port and computer
connections.
I
loved having all the space and amenities of home along with the daily maid
service. A luxurious treat, especially after a busy day sightseeing and
shopping in London.
I
used room service for meals and found the service excellent. The Library, a
small restaurant open only to residents, was an alternative breakfast
choice. A choice of eating and drinking spots is available to all: the
Quilon serves south Indian coastal cuisine, Bank Westminster and Zander
Restaurant and Bar serve an amalgamation of modern and traditional English
food. At 48 metres in length the buzzing bar is the longest in Europe. 