EUROPE - BRITAIN - LONDON : PAMPERED POOCHES ON PICCADILLY
by Zoe Olive McCoy



London’s five-star Athenæum Hotel and Apartments is going to the dogs. Not literally, of course, but the hotel has come up with a wonderful solution for travelers who can’t bear the thought of leaving their furry friends behind – bring them along!

The Athenæum has developed a Pampered Pooches on Piccadilly Pet Program that will have Fido and Fluffy living in the lap of luxury in one of the hotel’s perfectly decorated apartments. Just off Piccadilly, and attached to the hotel by a “secret corridor” the one and two bedroom apartments have their own entrances and offer privacy, space and all the services of the five-star hotel to which they belong.

Housekeeping, laundry and room service are all part of the pampered pooch lifestyle and Donald the concierge can help with anything from dog walkers and sitters to mobile vets for those last-minute check-ups. Pampered pooches staying at the Athenæum can also be whisked away for an indulgent grooming session while their humans get their own hair cut at the hotel’s salon.

Dogs traveling with their owners will receive a Doggie Bag full of squeaky toys upon check-in, complimentary food and water bowl, an oversized comfy pillow to rest their jowls, and turn-down service with gourmet dog biscuits and fresh bottled water, as well as a special doggie room service menu.

Ideally situated for walkies, the hotel is directly opposite Green Park. The wonderful new shop Mungo & Maud, on Elizabeth Street is also a brisk walk away. This divine dog and cat store supplies hand-woven leather dog baskets – a steal at £950 (approximately $1,700), delicate ceramic bowls, funky rubber bones and delicious hand-baked dog treats. Alternatively, for the latest in coats, collars and leashes, Gucci and Burberry’s on New Bond Street is just a short walk from the Athenæum.

Based on the hotel’s popular £ for $ program, the Athenæum’s apartment rates start at $500 per night. These special rates are subject to availability, based on double occupancy and exclusive of taxes.

Recently voted onto Condé Nast Traveler’s 2006 Gold List by the magazine’s readers, the Athenæum recently upgraded its television and entertainment systems by installing Bang & Olufsen televisions in all guestrooms, as well as new digital TV/entertainment systems. The property has also refurbished its Classic British Collection apartments to include more sofa beds and plasma televisions as well as new soft furnishings. Three apartments within the Modern British Collection have been completely redesigned in a contemporary style – a family-style apartment, a traditional luxurious apartment and a modern high-tech apartment.

The Athenæum enjoys an unsurpassed London location, directly opposite Green Park and within walking distance of Buckingham Palace. The hotel is close to many of the city’s main cultural attractions, including the Royal Academy of Arts, Trafalgar Square and Churchill’s Cabinet Rooms. London’s best shops, restaurants, theaters and parks are within easy walking distance.


Photo: courtesy Athenæum Hotel and Apartments, London

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The Athenaeum, with its luxurious guest rooms, suites and apartments, enjoys an unsurpassed London location, overlooking Green Park and close to many of the main cultural attractions of the city including Buckingham Palace, the Royal Academy of Arts, Trafalgar Square and Churchill’s Cabinet Rooms. London’s best shops, restaurants, theaters and parks are within easy walking distance.



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