The 'Last' Word - Charlotte's June Edit
- 6 hours ago
- 4 min read
From a summer singalongs to a peak inside a new hotel, discover what's on Charlotte's mind this month.
"The recent heatwave has made me want to get out into the garden, wander through parks and, of course, end up on a sun drenched terrace with a cocktail in hand.. which might just lead to a 'summer singalong in Mayfair'..."
Cocktails, Seafood and Summer Sounds
I’m always looking for London terraces that truly capture a sense of summer escapism, and this season LAVO at The BoTree has transformed its outdoor space into a Riviera-inspired retreat with the launch of LAVO al Mare.
Running throughout the summer, the experience brings a touch of the Mediterranean to Marylebone, complete with crisp white linens, parasols, live DJs and roaming martini trolleys serving Grey Goose cocktails tableside.
What really stands out to me is the playful approach to drinks and dining, from mini martinis paired with oysters and truffle arancini to indulgent seafood platters designed for sharing. The whole atmosphere feels vibrant yet relaxed — exactly what you want from a summer terrace in central London. Just moments from Oxford Street, LAVO al Mare feels like a little coastal escape hidden in the middle of the city.
A Summer Singalong In Mayfair
If there’s one thing guaranteed to keep me out for a late night, it’s the promise of good Italian food and a room full of music. Vocalé Mayfair, launching this month at Ristorante Frescobaldi, sounds like the kind of gloriously unrestrained evening London does so well. What begins as a refined dinner slowly transforms into a full-blown singalong, with waiters, chefs and hosts revealing hidden vocal talents as the night unfolds around you.
I love the idea that there’s no stage and no real divide between audience and performer – by the sounds of it, sitting quietly won’t be an option for long. With live music, Tuscan-inspired dishes and a soundtrack packed with crowd-pleasers, it feels part supper club, part West End show and part house party. I have a feeling this could become one of Mayfair’s most talked-about nights out this summer.
Find out more here.
London’s No.1 Map Is Out!
I’m delighted to announce that the 2026/27 WHERE London Map (Golden Keys edition) is now available throughout the city's premier four- and five-star hotels.
For almost 30 years, the map has been an essential resource for Concierge teams and visitors alike, helping guests discover and navigate the very best of the capital with ease.
The latest edition features comprehensive coverage of Central London, Greenwich, and the West End/Theatreland, plus the industry’s largest readily available London Underground map, all complemented by inspirational and informative advertising.
From iconic landmarks and the best theatre productions to top attractions, unforgettable tours and experiences, dining destinations, and hidden gems, it continues to be one of the most practical and trusted visitor guides in the city.
A first look inside The Derby London City
I recently had the chance to visit the newly opened The Derby London City, Curio Collection by Hilton and was warmly welcomed by Adelino Moreira HC, who kindly gave me a tour of the property – and I must say, I was very impressed.
Located in the heart of the City on Great Tower Street, the hotel occupies the former Bank of Scotland building – something that immediately gives the property a sense of character and history, as is so often the case with these beautiful old City buildings.
The Derby takes its name from the iconic bowler hat, long associated with British style and London’s financial district, and the design cleverly blends traditional charm with contemporary touches.
One of my favourite details was the original safety deposit boxes, which remain in place beside reception. Guests can even be given a key to retrieve special surprises or gifts hidden inside the compartments – a lovely nod to the building’s banking past and a memorable touch for VIP arrivals.
There’s also a daily ‘Golden Hour’ at 5:10pm, inspired by the hotel’s address (5-10 Great Tower Street), where guests can enjoy a cocktail of the day in a relaxed setting.
The Derby already feels like a fantastic addition to the London hotel scene and I look forward to seeing the finished property once all floors are fully open.
PS: You can read more about Adelino's journey to becoming Head Concierge, here.
HAVE YOUR SAY
I’d really encourage everyone working across hospitality to take a few minutes to complete Hospitality Action’s 2026 Taking the Temperature Mental Health & Wellbeing Survey.
The insights gathered are incredibly important in helping the charity better understand the pressures and challenges currently affecting our industry, ensuring the right support and services are available where they are needed most.
The more people who take part, the clearer the picture becomes – and that can make a genuine difference to the wellbeing support offered across hospitality in the future.
If you’re able to, please also help spread the word by sharing the survey on social media or circulating it with colleagues and teams internally. Every response really does count.
The survey is open until 12th June and can be accessed here.
CONGRATULATIONS
A quick 'well done' to Concierge Stefan Jitaru for winning Team Member of the Month at The BoTree hotel.
Head Concierge, Simone Caretti, said: "Well done to our Concierge Stefan Jitariu for winning Team Member of the Month! Your dedication, passion and teamwork definitely doesn't go unnoticed by guests and colleagues alike. We are very proud of you!"
Want to congratulate a colleague? Send a note to me: charlotte.last@tourismmediagroup.com.
MOVERS & SHAKERS
Zhenia Strizenas has been promoted to Assistant Head Concierge at Park Hyatt London River Thames.
Nelson Barbosa has been promoted to Assistant Head Concierge at Sheraton Grand Hotel.
Valentin Chiscop has been promoted to Head Concierge at The London Edition.
Darren Muylders has moved from The Londoner to The Knightsbridge Hotel as Assistant Head Concierge
Diogo Coelho has moved from The London Edition to St Clement Hotel as Head Concierge
Aleksander Chmiel has moved from Dakota Deluxe Manchester to Dakota Manchester Airport hotel as Head Concierge.
PSST...
Have you got some good news or hot gossip? Drop me an email at charlotte.last@tourismmediagroup.com
