Lately, all I seem to be doing is packing, don’t worry I’m not complaining! Obviously,
TGCO loves to pack and being super organised. Whether it’s a hen do with the girls,
mini shopping trip out of town, or a wedding weekend I often get pulled into an obli-
cation trip like most Brits who spend time attending 14 events every year. Obli-
cations (obligatory vacations) are those events that you feel obliged to attend –
travelling because you need to, with no choice over the date or location but still
enjoying your time while you are there.
This time, I had been invited to a special summer party held at the V&A in London
and really wanted an affordable, yet stylish overnight accommodation without having
to leave the party early, so I headed straight for the Hampton by Hilton in Waterloo.
Over the years, I’ve managed to stay in a few Hiltons across the world, but this was
my first time at a Hampton by Hilton hotel. If I’m absolutely honest I had overlooked
the Hampton by Hilton brand assuming it was a budget hotel brand and not my style.
However, I was very wrong. Wow, the Waterloo hotel was very impressive and
here’s my review.
Entering the hotel I was taken back by its bright and modern open plan clean lobby.
The staff were happy to see me and the check in was so smooth. What a great first
impression!
One of the key features of my stay was the room. The queen bed didn’t disappoint –
it was super comfortable with a thick duvet and huge pillows. The desk/dressing
table area not only had two power sockets which is great for laptops, hairdryer and
phone chargers, but a special mention for the large mirror above it! Hallelujah!
Perfect for us ladies who don’t want to put make-up on normally in a steamy, badly lit
bathroom. This made me very happy as I haven’t seen this much in hotel bedrooms.
Unpacking was easy, there was lots of drawer and wardrobe space, plus a slot for
my suitcase. It felt like home for the next 24 hours at least.
The smart en-suite bathroom had a lovely walk-in shower, soft fluffy towels and
plenty of complimentary toiletries, which smelled great. Very organised and well
thought out, perfect!
Breakfast is included at Hampton by Hilton hotels and is served from 6am and I
have to say it was pretty good with a wide range of cereals, pastries, breads and hot
breakfast items to choose from.
I chose to stay overnight at the Hampton by Hilton Waterloo because I was invited to
attend a rather fancy summer party at the V&A museum. Normally, I’d have to leave
the party early to catch the last train, but I really wanted to enjoy the evening to its
fullest without having to worry about getting home! Plus, I wanted to treat myself to
some quality me time away to rest and relax.
Once I had familiarised myself with the room and had a wonderfully refreshing
shower, I brought out my key essentials for my obli-cation stay. TGCO loves to plan
where possible, so I took the opportunity to review my 10 minute planner to organise
what’s to come for the next few days whilst relaxing with a L’Oréal face mask and
some Origins Peace of Mind oil in my room. This routine always brings a sense of
calm and clarity.
Hampton by Hilton also have a great helpline for obli-cation planners like me which is
hosted by television presenter Andrea McLean and offers advice, words of wisdom
and calming meditation techniques to make organising obli-cations as
straightforward as possible. You can call it on 0800 689 1914!
Hampton by Hilton London Waterloo is an excellent hotel and is highly
recommended if you’re travelling around London on holiday, on business or an obli-
cation like me!
Prices at the Hampton by Hilton Waterloo start from a very reasonable £111 for a
Queen Room like mine, including breakfast. Book direct at www.hilton.com or
through the Hilton app for perks and a price match guarantee.
TGCO tip
Unpack and enjoy the space – I always love to embrace my new living space and
staying at the Hampton by Hilton for the first time made me very excited. I placed my
items inside the drawers, shelves and clever hanging spaces in the room and set my
beauty products neatly in the bathroom. This allowed me to respect the space, but
more importantly enjoy my obli-cation.
