The Andaz lives up to its reputation tenfold on Liverpool Street in London. Their comfortable, easy service makes for a seamless check-in, add to that a drink and a snack…doesn’t get better. I love that Andaz keeps their lobby stocked with complimentary tea, coffee, snacks, and cocktails. Serious kudos.

It’s a short jaunt from the Liverpool underground to the hotel, which is situated on the edge of Shoreditch.  Upon arrival we cleaned up a bit and headed out to dinner. At dinner we talked about how much we both loved the Andaz hotels. We both felt the room we were given was a bit strange in it’s orientation. Our host explained that each room is different at the Andaz Liverpool Street, and she agreed that this room was a bit esoteric. Nonetheless, the beds were comfy, the pillows plentiful and the mini bar was stacked with COMPLIMENTARY snacks, bottled waters, and juices! FREE snacks in the mini bar? YES!! I know, unheard of, right? They also offer cleaning services for £5 per piece, and a shoe shine service as well. Two super bonuses when you’ve been traveling like gypsies as we had been. Another duo of welcome conveniences are the gym and spa at the Andaz. Nothing beats a Swedish massage by a woman named Fatima when you’ve had what felt like the swine flu. She smooshed all of my aches and pains away, then sent me on my merry way.

Before we left, our host showed us around, pointing out all of the beautiful restaurants attached to the hotel and even to parts of the hotel most people don’t get to see. Like the Masonic Temple that was uncovered when the hotel was built. The beauty and craftsmanship was impressive, although the room itself seemed to house some crazy spirits, giving us all the creeps upon entering.  We were told that Lady Gaga had a photo shoot down there, and they use it quite a lot of fashion magazine shoots.  Interesting to note that the Masonic Temple did not even have a listed address in London for many decades until recent times.  We were also clued in to the fact that the Andaz is Beth Ditto’s go-to hotel when she needs one. She celebrated her birthday there while we were sleeping (or trying to), in the room just below ours. Explains the 6:30AM dance party/rave we awoke to, screams and shouts included.  Not that I’m complaining…how many people can say that Beth Ditto partied in the hotel room next to theirs?

Andaz Liverpool Street40 Liverpool St City of London EC2M 7QN, United Kingdom 020 7618 5010http://london.liverpoolstreet.andaz.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp