There is nothing like a London city break to make you feel like you have really checked out of your normal routine and into the fun and adventures to be found in our capital.
London is one of the most vibrant capitals in the world, something that we Brits probably fail to recognise or take for granted.
But it has so much to offer visitors, from the incredible museums and art galleries, all free to enter, to the theatres and their myriad of shows.
And let's not forget the incredible range of foods on offer in restaurants and eateries, giving us tastes from around the globe.
No city break would be complete without a place to lay your head, and the Andaz London Liverpool Street is the perfect spot.
This five-star boutique hotel is a hidden gem just a stone's throw from London Liverpool Street station, making it an ideal destination for people travelling by train from our area.
Letting the train take the strain is such an easy option. For instance, from Ely with Greater Anglia, your trip is quick and simple from end to end.
The trains travel very regularly from Ely, meaning you can time your journey to suit your needs, whether it's a day of sightseeing or shopping or a night out, there is a train for you, and of course, you can travel from any of the stations in our area, Peterborough, Huntingdon, Stevenage, Royston, even Manea, you can take your pick, you don't have to stick with Ely.
Ely was the best option for us on our mother and daughter break as it meant we could arrive in the capital nice and early, drop our bags off at the hotel - the staff were only too happy to help with that - and head off for a day of exploring and adventure - for us that meant the current Pablo Picasso exhibition at the Tate Modern.
Entering the Andaz is an experience in itself, with its attractive aroma as you set foot through the door, courtesy of Darjeeling by T London, to the vibrant decor.
Its high walls are covered in dramatic artwork thanks to artists from the Royal College of Art, and it sets the theme throughout the hotel.
The reception staff were friendly and helpful, and were quick to offer a complimentary drink upon our arrival, and we could choose a soft or alcoholic beverage.
The Andaz London Liverpool Street is one of the capital's original railway hotels and is now part of the Hyatt hotel line. It has so much to offer guests, from its array of dining experiences, to the on-site health club, which includes a steam room and spa facilities to help you recharge after the rigours of sightseeing.
It even has its own Masonic Temple, dating to 1912 and located in the bowels of the hotel, which is in fact the only original one in London.
There are 267 rooms, from spacious suites to family rooms, and everything in between.
We stayed in room 322 on the third floor, which offered an amazing bird's eye view of the bustling street below, and despite its very busy location, there was little noise disturbance.
The walls were decorated in a wild, floral artwork, ideal for the hotel's Victorian history, but which had a modern twist on the side.
The spacious room offered twin beds, a settee, a desk, a wall-mounted television, and one of the cleanest hotel bathrooms I have ever seen, all in monochrome.
The large shower with its rainfall shower head was lovely, and the toiletries by Eleventh Hour had a subtle aroma to match that of the hotel. Stepping out of the shower, you could wrap yourself in a luxurious cotton robe and slip some complimentary slippers on your feet.
There was plenty of storage space with the built-in wardrobes, and facilities included an iron and ironing board, hair dryer, and most importantly, a tea and coffee making area.
The mini-bar was stocked with complimentary soft drinks. An absolute delight came late in the afternoon as we unwound, ready for the evening ahead.
A knock at the door heralded a staff member with a small plate containing handmade chocolates, but the real jaw-dropper was a large golden reindeer or as they called in Santa bell made entirely out of chocolate by the hotel's own talented chocolatier, and it came with a festive little message, which was a lovely touch.
It not only looked amazing, but it was also melt-in-your-mouth too.
From 5 pm to 6 pm, guests were invited to a free wine reception, where again we had a choice of drink if we didn't fancy the red or white that was on offer.
It was then time to dine, we chose the Eastway Brasserie, which is accessed via the next door down from the hotel's main entrance, but is part of the Andaz.
Once again, the staff were faultless with their attention to detail and friendliness.
We were treated to a three-course meal, which was excellent from start to finish. The chocolate and black cherry dessert was a piece of art.
A night of restful sleep in the comfortable beds in the air-conditioned, temperature-controlled room, and it was time for breakfast and what a feast there was to behold.
Still full from the previous evening's three-course meal, it was hard to do justice to the incredible array of choices from omelettes and waffles, to a full English, fruit, pastries, which included a variety of vegan-friendly options, to cereals, bread and cold meats.
You certainly had no room for complaint.
In short, you cannot go far wrong with a city break in the capital that includes a stay at the Andaz London Liverpool Street, its location is perfect for heading out to various landmarks including St Paul's Cathedral, the Gherkin, and the Millennium Bridge, and there is easy access to the underground if you want to explore other parts of the city.
For further details, visit the website: hyatt.com, or call 0207 961 1234.
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