The Savoy, A Fairmont Hotel

The Savoy is one of those old grand hotels like the Plaza or Pierre in New York.

But.....

Our room was very old and again on the small side. While we had a lovely view of the Themes River, it is in the West End which is an awful location unless you are going to the theatre every night, which we only did once.

The Grill on the top floor is very good as well as Banquette for something more casual. The only London hotel I've stayed in with an indoor pool which was very handy. The afternoon tea in the lobby lounge was decent and the bar was nice.

The Savoy isn't the reputed, 7 star Burj Al Arab in Dubai, Arab Emirates which costs 60 Euros just to step inside for a glimpse of its dazzling lobby. No, The Savoy, located on The Strand (in London's West End theatre district) has far more history and class behind it to set such pretentious and insolent limits. Frankly, a curious tourist could walk inside and enjoy the elegant, calming atmosphere of The Savoy without much ado. With limited budget, they could make their way to the "Banquette" and enjoy chef/patron Marcus Wareing's delightful concoctions. And, if you return the staff's politeness, you just might get the best seat in this informal setting--in the corner, in the far end, closest to the kitchen, overlooking the drive where one can watch the guests stepping out of their elegant cars and into the Art Deco style lobby of one of the most historic hotels in London.

Opened in 1889 with 263 rooms and suites, The Savoy has seen history played out in its resplendent halls. Starting with the management of Cesar Ritz from Paris, chef Auguste Escoffier, and master of wine Louis Echenard (maitre d'hotel), the hotel became known for an unparalleled attention to detail and innovation. It was not uncommon to see guests such as Sarah Bernhardt, Lily Lantry, or even Edward VII seeking out the hotel's impeccable service. Sir Winston Churchill, Eleanor Roosevelt, Charlie Chaplin, and many many others have ventured through the doors of The Savoy. In 1953, Queen Elizabeth II was crowned. The Savoy threw "the ball of the century" on the evening of Coronation day.

In short, few hotels could possibly try to replicate the feeling and ambience that are invoked at this fascinating place. And, for a weery travel such as myself, it was a relaxing haven where I found myself writing short stories and--in general--feeling creative. So many memories seemed to be floating around the halls and the rooms that it was difficult to capture all of the words and the emotions that sprange from brain to fingers. To add to the quality of the visit, the polite staff were everywhere greeting their guests, attempting to be helpful and welcoming. The rooms were not extensive but warm, inviting, relaxing, calming, clean, and carried the theme of Art Deco throughout. And, the garden, just steps away, was simply an extension of the hotel itself. Another of many ways to relax and enjoy the brief moments one has to be peaceful.

Note: sorry but, due to renovations, the hotel plans to be closed from Dec/2007 thru 2009.

We stayed at the Savoy for two nights in August 2007. It was a 'hotel/show' package, but was still quite expensive compared with our usual practices! We were a bit 'apprehensive' about whether it would be 'posh', and whether we'd be the 'poor relations', having done a package. We couldn't have been more wrong! from the friendly. warm greeting from the commissionaire, to the reception staff, porters, maids, restaurant staff and everyone we met. They were professional, but relaxed, friendly, helpful, welcoming. It was a great experience!. Our package included continental breakfast, but for £5.00, (£5.00!) we upgraded to the full and mignificent buffet! The room (de luxe) was large, with a huge bathroom. In no time we were really used to being in the Savoy! If you're simply thinking about it, just do it!!!