To paraphrase Oscar Wilde, we have the simplest tastes. We are always satisfied with the best.
The Megaro, London
Quiet and comfortable, the Megaro is ideally situated for train travel to the “North” or to Europe (King’s Cross and St. Pancras are across the road). Breakfast was included, served at an adjoining restaurant. Good breakfast menu and good service. The menu had a range of set items (“full English,” “eggs Benedict,” “avocado toast”), but we discovered that you could pick and choose à la carte. So sausages, eggs, as well as avocado toast and a fruit bowl. Obviously, we didn’t need lunch those days. Also, the room had a well-stocked pantry and fridge of fruit, snacks, and drinks – all of it complimentary (though you would be charged if you had items restocked).
There were a few minuses. Housekeeping was okay, but the carpet and sofa needed refurbishing. Check-in was tedious, although the reception staff was eager to help with various problems, and one clerk in particular worked hard and successfully to get a refund of our Covid cancellation from 2020. The exuberant decor of some of the rooms may not appeal to everyone.
Though not cheap, it is a better deal than the Marriott St Pancras Renaissance across the road. If we need to catch a train to the North or to Europe, we’d stay there again. 4 out of 5.
Vancouver Studios, London
Our 4th stay at Vancouver and our firm favorite. Amenities, shops, transport, restaurants (every ethnic choice you could wish for), pubs (be sure to visit the Prince Edward) all a moment’s walk away. The apartments are well furnished and supplied and, given their location, very quiet. The staff are friendly, efficient, and extremely helpful. We will return. 5 out of 5.
Wilde Aparthotel, Edinburgh
This was booked based on hundreds of rave reviews. It tied with the Premier Inn as our least favorite hotel, and the Premier Inn cost less than half as much. The bathroom was pokey and dirty with peeling paint. Locks, lights, and curtains are controlled by a touchpad, whose symbols are not immediately apparent and for which there is no manual. Worst of all, the bed is pushed up against the wall, so there is no access from one side, and one has to scramble over the other sleeper to get up. When we asked about changing the room, the manager said all the beds are that way. Unbelievable and Most uncomfortable. Breakfast, an extra charge, is limited, mediocre, and pricey. Bar drinks also expensive. 1 out of 5. Actually, come to think of it, as this is our site, we can give it 0 stars.
Perle Oban Hotel
Couldn’t be better situated for ferry services to the islands, with grand views of the sunset behind the harbor. Large comfortable room, robes and slippers, welcome tray of pastries and fruit, helpful staff, and a good restaurant serving middle-eastern specialties. First rate breakfast. Only minus, no on-site or free parking; but a paid lot is across the street. 4.5 out of 5.
Premier Inn, outside Carlisle, off the motorway
No elevator to the second floor, where the (relatively) superior rooms are. Long walk to the room, with awkward access when one is encumbered by luggage, because of the fire-doors. It was clean enough, if you didn’t look too closely. As we noted in a post, “We do not understand the popularity of this chain; England must lack the plethora of decent budget hotels we have in the US. Its chief virtue was that it was right off the M-6. Its second virtue was that we would be there for only one night.” Quiet. OK breakfast. 2 out of 5.
Castle House, Hereford
Location, accommodation, ambiance, food, and staff–all first rate and first class. Particularly enjoyed the welcome basket of shortbread and fruit, as well as a small decanter of sherry in our room upon arrival. Great dinner, sumptuous afternoon tea, and the best full English breakfast of our trip. See Hereford posts for photos. 5 out of 5.