IBIS HOTEL, LONDON EXCEL
There are many reasons why people visit the docklands area of London, the proximity to London city centre (only 6km), with all the attractions of the capital city, being just one of them. There is, of course, the fascinating history behind this area, and the modern redevelopment which includes residential as well as commercial premises, and several very good restaurants and hotels.
The reason for my visit, on this occasion, was to visit the Telegraph Cruise Show which was being held at the London Excel. For those who don’t know, the London Excel is a huge exhibition centre situated between Custom House and Prince Regent DLR train stations. Within two minutes walk of either station, London Excel is easily accessible by train, as well as by road.
As I was visiting the cruise show over two days, I decided on an overnight stay on the Saturday night. My choice of the Ibis Hotel proved to be a very wise choice indeed. Situated, virtually, on the doorstep of the London Excel, the Ibis Hotel is approximately only 150 yards from the conference centre, just one to two minutes walk. The close proximity of the hotel would prove invaluable as it meant I could easily nip back to my hotel room during the course of the day, if I needed to.
On entering the hotel, I was struck by how bright and modern the reception area was. This modern style of hotel décor is not always to everyone’s taste, however, the Ibis, unlike many other modern, contemporary hotels, still manages to retain a warm and very welcoming atmosphere, and I for one found it very pleasing. The welcoming atmosphere was enhanced by the very efficient and friendly reception staff. Check in was quick and efficient and every care was taken to ensure that I was happy. As I had arrived early in the morning, long before check in would normally commence, I left my luggage in a secure area whilst I visited the cruise show.
On returning to the hotel, later in the afternoon, I was given my room key. The key took the form of an electronic swipe card, like so many hotel keys do nowadays. The card also operated the lifts from the reception area to all eight floors. This is a great security measure, as it means no one wandering in off the streets can gain access to the guests rooms.
My room was situated on the 7th floor and overlooked the Royal Victoria docks. This elevated position afforded me wonderful views of not only the docks, but also the river Thames in the distance, as well as the O2 Arena and the recently constructed Emirates cable car attraction. All 278 rooms at the Ibis London Excel have similar facilities comprising of: WiFi, automatic wake up call, telephone, TV with pay to view channels, smoke alarm, en-suite shower, hair dryer, tea/coffee making facilities, desk, sofa and a stool. Where the rooms may differ is the bed configuration. You can choose from a double room with a queens size bed, a twin room with two single beds, or a family room with a double bed and a single bed. There are 15 rooms with facilities for guests with reduced mobility.
The room was perfectly acceptable, with everything that I would need for my stay. The hotel itself is not big on facilities, you won’t find a swimming pool or spa here! But this is not a resort type hotel and is aimed at the business visitor and those who merely want a clean, comfortable hotel to base themselves, whilst they visit the local area. The hotel does, however, have a very nice bar area adjacent to reception which is open from 11:00 to 01:00, and the breakfast dining area is used as the restaurant between 18:00 and 22:00, serving a good selection of reasonably priced international dishes. There is also a business area opposite reception where free Internet use is available on two computers.
The breakfast room/restaurant is in keeping with the décor of the rest of the hotel, modern, but tasteful. There is a combination of seating, from the more conventional table and chairs, to higher bench style tables with high stools. Breakfast is self service from a very impressive range of both hot and cold foods. Everything from the traditional full English to a more continental style breakfast is on offer, catering for all tastes. Tea, coffee, juices, yogurts, fresh fruit, cereals, it is all there to be enjoyed.
For anyone visiting the dockland area of London, and, in particular, London Excel, I highly recommend the ideally situated Ibis Hotel for a convenient, clean and comfortable stay.
Other information that may be of interest:
If not eating in the hotel restaurant, there are many fine restaurants within easy walking distance, ranging from Indian to Chinese, to Italian, as well as more traditional food. And of course London, with its plethora of eating establishments, is easily accessible.
Parking can be arranged at the Novotel hotel which is attached to the Ibis. The cost is £15 per day. Advance booking is recommended as space is limited to 70 places.
The current General Manager of Ibis London Excel is Mr Brian Opauka.
Address and contact details for Ibis London Excel are:
9 Western Gateway
Royal Victoria DockLondon E16 1AB
Tel: (+44) 207/0552300
Email: H3655@accor.com
Website: http://www.ibis.com/gb/hotel-3655-ibis-london-excel-docklands/index.shtml
