Forty One, London

I have been traveling since the mid-60's and this is my favorite hotel HANDS DOWN!!!The only close rival is the Pullitzer in Amsterdam.) This small hotel is located across from the Royal Mews in London and at one time housed Ladies-in-Waiting to the Queen. The staff is hand-picked from the other Red Carnation properties in the world and they are as polished and friendly as any you will come across. If you can, I urge you to splurge and ask for one of the glass ceilinged suites. You will lie under the stars swaddled in Frette linen after indulging in the spa quality bath. With a separate shower, electronics and nearly pool sized bath you will never want to leave the wet-room. Fresh flowers, fruit and chocolate will be joined by evening Hor'deourves in your private dining room. You may have everything from Cream Tea to a six-course meal served for four at your in-room dining table or you may have tea, drinks and snacks in the Library. You are met at the locked enterance door by a staff member who will do in-room registration. If your flying in from the west, they will offer refreshments and advice to alleviate jet-lag. Only one request, the business hours of an obscure bookstore, was too much for this staff. They often call you by name and not in that over-reheased way that you can find at Ritz Carletons or some Mandarin Orientals. As there are only a few rooms, they really do know everyone staying on property and you will soon recognize the entire staff. We had one "cleanliness" issue that was immediately handled by houskeeping. I hesitated to even write this review as I don't want to ever be told "no" when trying to book a room. Surprisingly, there are discounts and specials available fromn the Red Carnation web page. Location: The Palace is across the street. Security: Private entrance with a locked lobby door. Ambiance: Black and white fabrics with dark wood everywhere. Staff: Polished, professional and friendly. Bed: high quality linens with all light and electronics controlled from the bed. 6 Stars!!!