The 'Last' Word - Charlotte's July Edit

From Golden Keys celebrations and hotel openings to charity achievements and theatre tributes, discover what’s on Charlotte’s mind this month.

"This month has been all about celebrating our industry, from sky-high networking and a first look at an exciting new luxury hotel, to welcoming new faces, applauding achievements and recognising charitable efforts. With a fitting theatre tribute rounding things off, here’s my round-up of the people, places and moments that stood out."

🗝️ Golden Keys After Hours 🗝️

Last night, following The Society of the Golden Keys General Meeting at The Cumberland hotel, we swapped the boardroom for breathtaking views as SushiSamba Heron Tower London hosted a fabulous evening for Concierges and business associates.

Society President Binoy Nair (centre) with some of those who enjoyed the after-meeting mingling

With Golden Tours providing not one, but two buses – including their electric Routemaster – the celebrations got off to a great start before we were whisked up to the 39th floor.

Champagne on arrival, delicious canapés and beautifully presented cocktails set the tone, while the private space overlooked both the buzzing restaurant below and SushiSamba's stunning outdoor terrace. As the evening went on, the DJ turned up the energy and, by the end of the night, the dance floor had even tempted a few familiar faces.

It was wonderful to catch up with colleagues in such a spectacular setting, and a huge thank you goes to Maris Sildnik and the SushiSamba team for their generous hospitality. It was a fantastic way to round off the day – and a reminder of just how special our Golden Keys community is.

Golden Tours' Routemaster transported guests to SushiSamba for cocktails and canapes

Concierges and business affiliates socialising and networking at SushiSamba

A New Luxury Landmark

Enjoying views on the St. Clement hotel terrace

I was lucky enough to enjoy a sneak peek inside the stunning new St. Clement hotel ahead of its public opening this September, and it's safe to say this is one of London's most exciting luxury arrivals.

Head Concierge Diogo Coelho showed me around the beautifully designed property, where traditional check-in desks have been replaced with seamless WhatsApp arrivals, creating a wonderfully relaxed welcome.

Built on the historic site of The Howard Hotel, the standout features include an incredible two-storey penthouse with panoramic Thames views, an elegant rooftop restaurant opening this autumn and a gorgeous riverside terrace.

Even the entry-level rooms are anything but standard, with exceptional attention to detail throughout.

If first impressions are anything to go by, the St. Clement is set to become one of London's most talked-about luxury hotels.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Welcome to the Keys, Mathew

Heartfelt congratulations to Concierge Mathew Shiju, who has received his Golden Keys - that mark the very best in the profession.

Mathew (centre) receives his keys from Victor Ardelean (left) and Society President Binoy Nair

Mathew has worked at the InterContinental Park Lane for 12 years.

Head Concierge Victor Ardelean said: "The golden keys aren't given lightly. Years of experience, rigorous assessment and a standard of service that has to be seen to be believed. He's earned every bit of this.

We couldn't be more proud to have him representing us here at InterContinental London Park Lane."

A spokesperson for The Society said: "A huge congratulations to Mathew on receiving his Golden Keys. We are delighted to officially welcome him into Les Clefs d'Or® International and wish him every success on this exciting chapter of his Concierge journey."

Walking for a Worthy Cause

Congratulations to Paul Walsh and the team from The Clermont Hotel Group, who recently completed the challenging Hadrian's Wall Trek in support of the group's nominated charities.

Covering 45km over two days, the team battled blisters, black toenails and even failing boots, all while keeping their spirits high and raising almost £20,000 for Rays of Sunshine Children's Charity, Kentish Town City Farm and Little Village.

Paul, Guest Services Manager at The Marble Arch Hotel by Thistle even managed to fit in a game of padel along Hadrian's Wall!

Paul Walsh and the team who completed the Hadrian's Wall Trek

It's fantastic to see such commitment, teamwork and determination making a real difference. Well done to everyone involved on an incredible achievement.👏

MOVERS & SHAKERS

• Matteo Delrio has joined art'otel London Battersea Power Station as Head Concierge

• Emiel Danneels, Concierge at Raffles London at The OWO, has passed his interview for The Society of the Golden Keys - sponsored by Alex Collins and Daniel Hennessey

• Vacancies:

  • Head Concierge required at the Park Plaza Riverbank: email the HR team at akobak@pphe.com 

  • Night Concierge, Doormen and Porters positions are available at St Regis London: email tom.wardley@stregis.com

And Finally - A Fitting Tribute

The decision to rename the Shaftesbury Theatre as the Judi Dench Theatre is wonderful news for the West End and a fitting tribute to one of Britain's most beloved performers. Few artists have contributed so much to theatre, film and television, and it's entirely appropriate that her name will grace one of London's most historic stages.

What I love most is that this isn't simply honouring a national treasure; it celebrates Dame Judi's long-standing connection with the theatre and the people behind it. It's also inspiring to see such a prominent West End venue named after a woman whose influence has shaped generations of performers and audiences alike. The Judi Dench Theatre has a wonderful ring to it, and I can't imagine anyone more deserving.

The Shaftesbury Theatre is to be renamed Judi Dench Theatre

PSST...

Have you got some good news or hot gossip? Drop me an email at charlotte.last@tourismmediagroup.com