#7
Surpasses the hype
Our family of five spent seven glorious nights in three rooms, including the Eschegaray Suite to which we were upgraded. This was perhaps the most perfect hotel experience we have every had. Where to start? It is quite simple: the service!!! The entire staff is at the top of their game -- passionate, dedicated, professional, knowledgeable, perfectionist, empathetic and full of genuine affection for their clients. The concierge staff orchestrated our entire stay from restaurants, to shopping, to cultural sites,to guided tours by expert guides and informal walks through the beautiful streets of this wonderful city. Every restaurant (lunch and dinner) knew our name and we always had a well-placed table waiting for us. We even had the two hour, fifteen minute "hold" rule waived at Bibo at the concierge desk's request. Taxis were always available and a day trip to Segovia with private car was one of the highlights of our trip. The chamber maids were delightful and brought anything you requested in minutes with a smile on their face. Each night they delivered little gifts (L'Occitane products, virgin olive oil, sweets and chocolates).
Breakfast each morning was a delight. There is a small buffet, beautifully presented and full of quality products. Coffee was unbelievable and our kids couldn't get enough of the hot chocolate. Al lacarte dishes were wonderful --- eggs Florentine, eggs Benedict, the Mexican breakfast and the English breakfast were our favorites. The waitstaff was superb, always smiling and anticipating every need. The bar had excellent cocktails and knowledgeable barmen who were happy to create a drink using your favorite tastes.
Rooms are delightful. Great, spacious bathroom (great showers) and dressing area with plenty of closet space and hangers! I wasn't sure about the bath tub in the room and probably hadn't taken a shower in 30 years, but I found myself soaking luxuriously after a long day of sightseeing. Incredibly comfortable bed and bedding. We had two windows facing Eschegaray street which gave great natural light and were fully soundproofed.
I should probably thank those who were so helpful and gracious by name, but that would include over 20 people, a few of which I might miss. I would like however to thank the staff collectively for all they did to make this a memorable trip for my entire family. HGI feels like a second home. Never have I been quite so "blown away" with the excellence of this hotel. A great, great hotel with an even greater staff. I miss you all, but will be back to my second family soon