INCREDIBLE TRAVEL PEOPLE! I first met Kurt at a 360 Private Travel Associates Meeting that was being hosted at the Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard. Considering the very distracting and incredible views over London, it was a surprisingly productive meeting!
Kurt Macher photo by Noel Yeo, @Nudgephotography My three-month-old baby, Sophia and my very kind friend who looked after her in between feeds came along with me. It was Kurt who made my attendance possible by offering-up a private room next to the conference room so I could feed Sophia in peace. A very kind gesture from this young and very dynamic General Manager! After the meeting concluded Kurt and his team hosted a champagne reception as a chance for us to get to know more about the hotel. Simply put, the hotel is stunning! It may seem obvious to point out but every single room comes with an incredible view – not many city hotels can boast that. Another unique touch was the special messages written on The Shard windows; messages such as “Happy Birthday”, “Congratulations” “Welcome Mr & Mrs Homan” and even “Will you Marry Me?” – what a unique way to pop the question! I also loved that Kurt personally takes guests out for a morning run that doubles as a guided tour for the active and fit around the local area.
While delivering exceptional service and standards, Kurt also shows great creativity and a great sense of humour. During the summer, a travel friend of mine visited The Shangri-La for afternoon tea. To meet social distancing requirements certain tables had to be blocked out but in order to retain some atmosphere Kurt had placed mannequin guests around the spare tables and in the bar and lounges – hilarious and genius! My absolute favourite creative idea, thought up by Kurt, was born out of guests being unable to go on their planned Safari, Beach and City holidays (thank you Coronavirus). “Escapism Inspiration” offers a selection of destination-inspired in-room themes which can be added to your room or suite booking. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate something special if you can’t get away to the actual destination! Working in collaboration with one of London’s premier proposal and wedding planners, ‘The Proposers’, the hotel offers ‘A Night in Paris’ where you can dine by the Eiffel Tower, a ‘Beach Retreat’ bringing sand, sun and music to your room, or a ‘Safari Extravaganza’ with Lions, Tigers and Giraffes up high! And for a special occasion, or just because, you can book ‘A Night of Romance’ on Cloud 9.
Safari Extravaganza Beach Retreat A Night in Paris
Photos by Noel Yeo, @Nudgephotography
From my years of commuting into London Fenchurch Street and marching head-down to Tower Hill Underground Station, The Shard never failed to lift my chin, grab my attention and impress me. As the tallest building in the United Kingdom it is a magnificent landmark on the London skyline and one of the most popular attractions. Come rain or shine I always found the time to glimpse up over, wishing I was there looking down to the commuters below. The Shangri-La London allows you to enjoy those incredible views, with a sophisticated vibe, from it's stunning restaurants and bars and away from the tourist hullabaloo. If you are ever in the capital, I urge you to stop by The Shangri-La London at The Shard. The views are amazing and as inspiring as Kurt and his team and they have some fun and fabulous festive season ideas too. This year Kurt's team are transporting guests from London Bridge to the snow-capped slopes of Lech, Austria! Après-ski afternoon tea at TING anyone? Or Alpine-esque hearty fare at Bar 31 – yes please! There are different events at TING and GONG Bar and exclusive overnight stays to ring in the New Year. So, get you support bubble childcare at the ready and celebrate “Tier 2 style” this year with your other half or household! Please contact me if you are interested to find out more about this iconic hotel.
@shangrilalondon @kurtmacheryeo