By Rama Gaind.
| When it comes to hospitality … “The key is to set realistic customer expectations and then not to just meet them, but to exceed them … preferably in unexpected and helpful ways.” — Sir Richard Branson |
Marieclaire Ranasinghe is guest relations manager at The Langham, Sydney. Photo: Rama Gaind
My short sojourn at The Langham, Sydney, surpassed preconceived ideas to prove undoubtedly (in one sense) that “travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” It was memorable because of courteous interactions, obliging staff, appealing locality and impressive experiences!
Stylish luxury and a warm welcome augured well for the first visit to one of the city’s chic luxury hotels. What American memoirist, poet and civil rights activist Maya Angelou said was spot-on: “People will forget what you said, forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Captivating the senses on entry was the sophisticated ambience found at The Langham, where modern conveniences blend seamlessly with timeless elegance. The interior was pristine with spacious, neat lines, a brightness that was obvious through unique touches, including subtle notes of ginger flower fragrance and freshly-picked pink roses in the lobby.
Highlight of a walk along Barangaroo precinct. Photo: Rama Gaind
The Langham, Sydney resides in a beautiful Irish Georgian-style building, epitomising a graceful period of Australian architectural history. Overlooking Sydney Harbour, it has plush interiors and signature restaurant, Kitchens on Kent.
Secluded tranquillity is evident with The Langham’s setting in The Rocks district. It’s located in Millers Point equidistant to The Rocks, Barangaroo, Walsh Bay and so much more. Nestled in a historic neighbourhood within walking distance to some of the city’s iconic attractions including the Opera House. Surprising revelation!
Enthusiasm is the key for novel ideas, sublime possibilities and to making new friends.
Guest relations manager Marieclaire Ranasinghe was convivial, giving assurances of a seamless and enjoyable guest experience. It was amazing!
“I hope I have the opportunity of welcoming you back to The Langham, Sydney in the very near future.” Attentive!
Vini Biancalana is chief concierge at The Langham, Sydney. Photo: Rama Gaind
Chief concierge Vini Biancalana not only had a lot of knowledge about The Langham, but was also interactive, and nothing was too much trouble. He was engaging as he said: “It was such a pleasure to have you staying and spending some quality time in the hotel and around our beautiful neighbourhood. You can always come back to your home away from home.” Considerate!
Immerse yourself in peace at The Day Spa by Chuan, according to the director Malthi Nair. Choosing a bespoke treatment was a sure way to soothe all the stress away. A serene sanctuary it was, and it did rejuvenate the soul!
A comfortable and unforgettable stay, not only because of the people I met, but as the connections were cordial, the impressions long-lasting.
Surprising experiences
Scenic stroll of discovery along the Sydney Harbour foreshore. Photo: Rama Gaind
Partaking of the Camilla x Pride afternoon tea at The Langham, Sydney was an exclusive experience. On the menu were warm scones, delicate finger sandwiches and a selection of pastries, sweet and savoury delights. Relished with satisfaction!
Kitchens on Kent is known for multiple, exceptional interactive cooking stations offering an extensive selection of cuisines. Here, food restrictions and preferences were accommodated without fuss. Vegetarian curries, pasta and lamb roast with all the trimmings were delectable!
Adventure blended amicably (not surprisingly!) with erudite surrounds after realising there was a lot to discover in and around The Langham on Kent Street.
Attractive chinaware for afternoon tea at The Langham, Sydney. Photo: Rama Gaind
For generations, Sydneysiders and visitors have been unable to walk along the Sydney Harbour foreshore between Walsh Bay and Cockle Bay. It was industrial and commercial land, off-limits to the public. Now the public have access to Wulugul Walk, a spectacular foreshore promenade for pedestrians and cyclists in Barangaroo, which connects the stunning 11 kilometre harbourside walk from Woolloomooloo to the Anzac Bridge. The walk goes along the Barangaroo precinct foreshore; from Barangaroo House in the south to the northern part of Barangaroo Reserve in the north.
Striking sights as you stroll along the Wulugul Walk in Sydney. Photo: Rama Gaind
It was an arduous, but rewarding stroll of discovery along Wulugul Walk, The Cutaway, Hickson Park, Barangaroo Reserve, Darling Harbour, King Street Wharf, Walsh Bay, to name but a few localities.
Exceptional experiences dominated the brief break leaving an indelible mark. Refined at that!
Surprising discoveries added to a discerning observer’s wonderment. To mention with approbation: true hospitality is a delicate balance of warmth and form because courteous treatment will make a customer a walking advertisement.
In other words: “The great advantage of a hotel is that it is a refuge from home life.” — George Bernard Shaw
FACT BOX
The Langham, Sydney
www.langhamhotels.com
