We usually advise visitors to London to head for a suitably high vantage point to get their bearings. Until recently that meant a touristy trip on the London Eye, or braving the steps at Monument, but not anymore; even for life-long Londoners like us, it was something of a revelation to see the city from our 49th-floor suite at the Shangri-la Hotel at the Shard, an iconic London landmark.
But there is so much more to the Shangri-La Hotel at the Shard than just the view. Our room was kitted out with floor-to-ceiling electronic blinds, two high-definition smart TVs (one hidden in the bathroom mirror), a Japanese intelligent toilet – with its own view, naturally – a huge bath and equally palatial shower. Continuing the theme of oversized luxury, the bed seemed like it was designed to house an entire football team, something you may want to try out for yourself.
Outside of the room, the treats kept coming, a morning swim in the infinity Skypool is a decadent way to start a day, and sunset cocktails at ‘Gong’ – the capital’s highest bar at 194 meters from the ground – rounded off the day. Then, suitably light-headed, we went for dinner at ‘Ting’, their exceptional restaurant.
| Perfect for | Fly into | Right on time |
| The Hedonist | LHR / LCY | GMT |
| While you’re Out There |
| While many will tell you about neighbouring Borough Market (which is a gem), OutThere travellers may want to check out Bermondsey Street and nearby Southwark, to hang out with hip locals at amazing eateries and drinking dens. |
Photography courtesy of Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts
