Can you mix business and relaxation? Are you on business in London? Do you have a meeting at the beginning and end of your day?
I imagine this is very common. You have travelled into London from the country or abroad and you happen to find yourself with a gap in your diary.
Gentlemens grooming in Central London
This was exactly my situation yesterday. Though I live in London, I do find that travelling back and forwards between meetings can waste ever so much time, so on occasion I find that I am able to do a little bit of both.
Gentlemens grooming: luxury lifestyle
My first meeting was at 0930 on the South Bank, after which I walked 10 minutes to the new Park Plaza Hotel on Westminster Bridge Road where I had booked a Balinese massage for 1200. Being a gentleman, I arrived early and entered this very modern and stylish hotel. Situated just over the river from The Houses of Parliament, this location has been radically transformed, fit for a gentleman and perfect for a businessman, all part of a gentleman’s lifestyle.
Gentlemans relaxation part of gentlemans grooming
The Spa, pool and fitness area are situated downstairs, and upon arrival I changed early so I could use the swimming pool, and whether I was lucky or not I do not know, but as it happens, I was the only one in the pool. A few lengths and then into the sauna was definitely what I needed after a late one the night before. My massage started on time and immediately upon entering the massage treatment room I noticed the space and a decent sized treatment bed. In general, I prefer 80 minute sessions for my relaxation treatment, which they also do. However, due to time, I opted for the hour and my masseuse really made me feel welcome. With my 50 minute treatment up, my muscles were working better and I felt more together, but I did feel the need for some nourishment.
So it was upstairs for lunch, to The Brasserie Joel, definitely business, but friendly all the same with a fresh stylish feel to the décor. Working in the film industry, as I do, one gets used to the concept of needing to eat within a specific time period. I sat down with 45 minutes to spare; fresh bread, mineral water, lasagne and green salad and glass of crisp white wine, plus a crème brulée… yes, I am a man with a sweet tooth! Without any shadow of a doubt everything was just right…service was unfussy, the food healthy, very tasty and just the right portion size.
Before leaving the Spa earlier, I had asked a friendly member of staff, if they could fit a manicure in for after my meal. I take gentlemens grooming seriously, so I was very pleased at their response. So, from 2 till 3 my paraffin wax manicure took place, very good with the winter coming. 
I left just after 3 and arrived for my meeting with time to spare. In essence, I received exactly the right treatments, on time and with a smile which meant I felt refreshed, relaxed and fully energised for my meeting.
Mandara Spa at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge
200 Westminster Bridge Road,
London SE1 7UT,
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7620 7300
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