I hope I'll have enough space to share the myriad pleasures of staying at Rachel's charming, ideally located apartment in Soho. First, even prior to leaving the US, Rachel's communication was invariably prompt, thorough and warm. It was a harbinger of an excellent host, and continued after our arrival, and even after our departure.
Our initial impression was that the flat was smartly decorated and spacious -- especially for a central London residence. The bathroom is compact but cleverly appointed, as is the 'hidden kitchen' in the living room. You've got to see it to understand. It's a treasure.
In short order however we realized Rachel had thought of everything. There are countless gracious touches we've never encountered in a rental, like plenty of converters for different guests from other countries. There were ample toiletries and paper products for bathroom and kitchen, an actual Nespresso machine and Breville kettle, with coffee pods and nice quality teas, 'necessaries' for women. The bed is comfortable, the linens of excellent quality and - praises be and a true rarity - the pillows and towels were wonderful!!
Despite being in the heart of a bustling city, we slept blissfully because we could shut the wooden shutters to the outside windows facing our sweet little street as well as to the door of the bedroom, which sits back in the unit. On only one night was there noise from below, rather loud music on the Friday night, but it too stopped completely at 12:30, which was pretty amazing. We stayed in the flat an entire week, including a Saturday, and that was the only time we had outside noise intrude at all, and it was a brief intrusion. To say there are convenient restaurants is an understatement: there are hundreds in the neighbourhood, and we met folks who'd travelled from all parts of the city to dine in them.
We easily walked to so many of the city's attractions a few blocks to the National Gallery, a mile to the Horse Guards and just a bit further to the Churchill War Rooms, a couple of miles to the Victoria and Albert or Harrods. It's very near Piccadilly Circus as well, so convenient to the Underground.
We can't wait to return!!!!!