Address: Old Park Lane, London W1K 1LB
Telephone: 0207 447 1000
Website: www.metropolitan.co.uk
First impressions: This ultra-trendy hangout has lost none of its cachet. The reception is so uncluttered you can't be entirely sure whether the people in sleek suits really could be there to help you check in. But the service is reassuringly friendly - the staff may look cool but their welcome is warm.
Rooms: Sleek and minimal and very smart. Lots of wood panelling and furniture (even the bins match) with leather strap handles and suede upholstery. Slim light fittings, slim vases (one holding an exotic flower and twigs, like a supermodel motif). Not over-accessorised but a nice telly with tons of channels and lights and heating systems you can actually control without a week's training. Bathroom all grey marble, wood and steel, with the Como hotel group's signature Shambala smellies.
What else is there to do?: If you're not an A-lister, member or practised ligger yourself, it's a rare chance to celeb-spot in the private, recently refurbished Met Bar. Health club and gym in the basement. Try a Shambala treatment: from massages to jet lag therapy to five element acupuncture - or even, if you're getting a bit Ab Fab, intuitive counselling or shiatsu with a world authority on nine star Ki Astrology. Blimey.
Restaurants: Don't come here to eat unless you want to seriously splash out on some excellent food. This is the home of Nobu, the Japanese restaurant that still pulls in the celebs by the barrowload. You can also eat in the Met Bar, in the stylish lobby, or get room service. Breakfast is in the White Room, next to Nobu, and is a sophisticated affair served by people who look disgracefully dapper for the morning. As well as continental, full English or a la carte, there's an excellent organic menu that takes you through porridge, juices, smoothies, tea, toast and superb egg-white omelettes with everything you fancy in or on the side.
The best thing: Feeling like a star.
The worst thing: Both bath taps fell off - can't even the Met get a decent plumber?
What is there to do in walking distance? This is just on Hyde Park corner, so whatever you fancy, really: a stroll to the shops, the museum district, sightseeing or jogging with the wildlife in central London's biggest green space.
Rates: From £225 for a double at weekends including breakfast, £325 with a park view. Christmas packages including a one-hour massage for two people and Shambala goodies for £295 (£335 in park view room).
