Review of Trafalgar Hotel, by Nadia Latif

The Trafalgar is one of London's most centrally-located luxury hotels. From the windows of its higher classes of room, guests can literally look out onto Trafalgar Square. The City and Strand are both easily reached, making it ideal for corporate clientele. Those travelling for more leisurely pursuits though (as far as sightseeing in London can be described as 'leisurely') are by no means disadvantaged; Covent Garden, Piccadilly Circus and Buckingham Palace are all within walking distance.

There is a contemporary, minimalist edge here - simple, clean lines, neutral-toned walls and plenty of glass and metal on show. What does add a bit of spark and quirkiness are the regularly changing displays of modern artwork. When Travel Intelligence paid a visit, fantastically coloured robotic figures, made mostly out of old eighties toys, were vying for attention alongside the black leather banquette seating.

There is little by way of lobby or reception. Walking through the main doors, guests find themselves in the popular Rockwell bar and restaurant. A large, airy space split onto two levels, this modern British eatery and bourbon bar has a sleek, sophisticated polish; the fact that this was the first bourbon bar outside Tennessee makes it a hotspot for post-dinner drinks.

There are five meeting rooms that range from the very contemporary to the more sedate and refined (one in particular, decked out with 1930's wood panelling, is very popular). The number of business guests that use this luxury hotel is wholly reflected in its facilities - alongside the meeting rooms, there is a business centre and even a chic rooftop terrace that can be hired out for special events.

The 129 rooms and suites are nothing if not generous in size. Standard rooms are positioned at the rear of the hotel and do not enjoy the brilliant views over Trafalgar Square, but in terms of space, are exemplary. All of the rooms have large beds (kings in all but the Standard rooms), flat-screen televisions, a well-stocked mini-bar and a DVD player with access to a library. Even better, all of the rooms come with a sitting area. All in all, in terms of convenience and location, The Trafalgar has pretty much got all bases covered.