After nearly 30 years of calling London my home, staying in a London hotel is something I rarely do. But this year, I decided to combine two special reasons: celebrating my birthday and conducting an important site visit for Journeys UK 2025, which will be hosted at the South Place Hotel. Whenever I partner with a hotel for an event, I always make a point to visit, ensuring everything aligns perfectly for our delegates. This time, however, I thought—why not combine business with pleasure? It turned out to be one of the most memorable weekends I’ve had.
The South Place Hotel, led by General Manager Dean Culpan and supported by the exceptional Tracy Ramsey, has become a familiar space for me over the last few months. Through a series of meetings held here, I’ve come to appreciate something new about the hotel with every visit. Whether it’s the warmth of the team, the exceptional dining, or the thoughtful attention to detail, South Place always leaves a lasting impression.
Let me tell you all about it—strap in!
We arrived mid-afternoon on Friday, and the welcome could not have been more thoughtful. In our room, there was a celebratory drink waiting for us, courtesy of the hotel (Elmo, our family dog, was not forgotten—he had his own plush bed and delicious treats!). But what truly touched me was the room itself. It had been beautifully decorated with balloons, sparkly butterflies, and a heartfelt note from Dean wishing me a happy birthday. These little touches elevated the occasion and made us feel incredibly special.
That evening, we kicked off the celebrations with dinner at Angler, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant. Being my actual birthday (I love when that happens), we went all out. Every dish was perfection, but the tuna, in particular, stood out for me. The pairing of each course with exquisite wines made it one of the most memorable dining experiences I’ve had in London.
Saturday began slowly, as weekends should. After a luxurious lie-in, we enjoyed a sumptuous breakfast featuring my absolute favourite—Eggs Benedict. The day continued with some family shopping in central London.
What surprised me most about South Place Hotel is its location. Nestled in the City, it provides a calm oasis while still being close enough to the energy of central London. The hustle and bustle are within reach, yet the hotel remains a sanctuary of serenity. After shopping, we enjoyed a new experience: a visit to Everyman Broadgate Cinema—just a short walk from the hotel. Watching Paddington while relaxing in reclining sofas and enjoying delicious food served throughout was such a treat. I think this must be the future of cinema!
On Sunday, I was spoiled yet again. The morning included a blissful massage and manicure, and thanks to Dean’s generosity, there was even a surprise pedicure. It was pure indulgence—exactly what I needed to wrap up this wonderful weekend.
Reflecting on this stay, I am more certain than ever that South Place Hotel will be the perfect home for Journeys UK 2025. From the first meeting with Dean and Tracy to each subsequent visit, I’ve seen the hotel’s dedication to excellence shine through. It’s a hidden treasure in the heart of London, where luxury, culinary excellence, and warm hospitality meet.
Our delegates and buyers will undoubtedly fall in love with this gem of a property, just as I have.
Wishing everyone celebrating a wonderful Christmas, and to all, a joyful and prosperous New Year!
Until next time,
Micaela & the Journeys Team
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