Feature: A Journey from London to Venice Aboard the Orient Express, Vol. 1
LOUNGE / FEATURES
July 21, 2015

Feature: A Journey from London to Venice Aboard the Orient Express, Vol. 1


Feature: London to Venice Aboard the Orient Express, Vol. 1


A City Where Classic and Contemporary Intersect


New Ways to Enjoy a London Stay


Thirteen hours after departing Tokyo. As fallen leaves danced and the city headed towards December, London was more vibrant than usual. The streets glittered with illuminations, and Aston Martins sped by with a light, cheerful sound. Wandering through the night in Knightsbridge, lined with luxury boutiques, one couldn't help but feel exhilarated.The itinerary for this trip was five nights and seven days, with a route starting in London and traveling to Venice, Italy, aboard the Orient Express. For our first night, we would be staying at the newly opened contemporary hotel, "45 Park Lane," located east of Hyde Park.

Photographs by Hiro MatsuiText by AKIZUKI Shinichiro (OPENERS)




45 Park Lane: Embodying the "Now" of London


"45 Park Lane," situated in London's Mayfair district, is currently drawing attention as the most contemporary hotel in the UK.

Since the 2012 London Olympics, with the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the Duchess of Cambridge's childbirth, the UK has been a focal point for the world, experiencing a surge of energy in fashion, art, architecture, food, and even automobiles – in all aspects of "people, things, and events."



45 Park Lane


In the British version of Monopoly, the Mayfair district is apparently designated as the area with the most expensive real estate. Many high-end boutiques line the streets of nearby New Bond Street, Old Bond Street, and Regent Street, all within walking distance. If we were to draw a parallel in Tokyo, it would be akin to the Ginza or Marunouchi districts.




However, in recent years, new styles of restaurants, bars, and hotels have been opening one after another right next to these establishments that emphasize tradition and formality. The 45 Park Lane, where we stayed this time, is one such symbolic building.

About an hour's drive from Heathrow Airport, upon arriving at 45 Park Lane's main entrance, we were greeted by Robert Indiana's iconic "LOVE" sculpture, displayed as public art.










Feature: London to Venice Aboard the Orient Express, Vol. 1


A City Where Classic and Contemporary Intersect


New Ways to Enjoy a London Stay (2)



Experiencing an Energetic London


45 Park Lane, designed by architect Thierry Despont, interprets Art Deco in a modern style. The hotel features a modern design with clean, sharp lines, not only in its exterior but also in its guest rooms.

There are a total of 45 rooms, all of which are suites. Every room offers a view of Hyde Park, providing guests with relaxation and a tangible sense of being in London.

45 Park Lane



In contrast to the elegant hotels with a distinctly British atmosphere, the guest rooms are extremely modern residences. All rooms are equipped with touch-panel remotes that control not only the lighting but also allow for concierge calls, integrating most functions. WiFi is, of course, available, and there are ample power outlets. Even busy business travelers will likely find everything they need.

However, the charm of 45 Park Lane lies in its facilities, which are almost too good for a business trip. Within the hotel, one can savor a meal at "CUT at 45 Park Lane," the steakhouse byWolfgang Puck, who pioneered "aged beef" in Japan. Afterwards, it's not a bad idea to enjoy a signature cocktail at the lively "Bar 45" until late at night.




Of course, as a guest of 45 Park Lane, you can also use the restaurants and bars at the adjacent sister hotel, "The Dorchester," allowing you to choose based on your mood for the day.






Feature: London to Venice Aboard the Orient Express, Vol. 1


A City Where Classic and Contemporary Intersect


New Ways to Enjoy a London Stay (3)



Revisiting the Old to Discover the New


Its sister hotel, "The Dorchester," is a premier London establishment that upholds tradition and prestige, based on the English Regency style. It's only a three-minute walk from 45 Park Lane, but interestingly, its ambiance is completely different.

The Dorchester boasts 250 rooms, with meticulous attention paid to ensuring no two rooms have the same interior design. Upon entering, you'll be captivated by "The Promenade," a vast space adorned entirely with fresh flowers.




For those who want to experience afternoon tea while in London, The Dorchester is highly recommended. Having been honored three times by the UK Tea & Infusion Association as having the Best Afternoon Tea, reservations are, of course, essential.

Enjoying both hotels simultaneously, it's hard to say which is superior; both possess undeniable charm. It's understandable, then, that "45 Park Lane" attracts a clientele of creative, energetic jet-setters.




Yet, humans are fickle creatures. Guests staying at 45 Park Lane often find themselves longing for the classic ambiance of The Dorchester, and indeed, many guests alternate between the two hotels.

This culture of "revisiting the old to discover the new" may also be part of the new generation's way of enjoying London, much like the car culture already has.



We encourage you to visit London and discover which you prefer.


45 Park Lane
Mayfair, London, W1K 1PN
+44-20-7493-4545

http://www.dorchestercollection.com/london/45-park-lane


The Dorchester
Park Lane, Mayfair London, W1K1QA
+44-20-7629-8888

http://www.dorchestercollection.com/london/the-dorchester