jbmemories

Significantly larger executive lounge (and gym) than Conrad St James, and staff within the lounge were constantly moving around to ensure guests were well taken care of, without being overbearing. Observed personal touches (of conversation) to regulars, one guest remarked how they had remembered them from 2 or so years back.

Not really a big benefit with the lounge access, as I already had Diamond. No further upgrades were available for the day; a conference was happening over the weekend. Being on St James Street, Westminster, along with other major attractions, is a walk away. A few steps away from the Tube as well. Knowledgeable concierge staff with recommendations tailored to what I wanted to see and do.

In the US, as anyone can get a Diamond with their co-branded CCs, nothing special was given. No welcome gifts or anything like that compared to outside of North American Hilton(s). No acknowledgement of status - assume the upgrade was given only due to booking through AMEX's FHR programme. The upgraded room was on the 46th Floor, and the views were decent but nothing to ring special about. Quite a walkable distance between places within NYC.

I got an automatic upgrade from King Guest Room to King Executive Room; however, I had a polite conversation via the App (when it became available) to see if they were able to upgrade me to one of the suites and was given the King Parlour Room! The Executive Lounge is tucked away past the reception. It has a very attentive staff during breakfast and evening canapes who quickly offer beverages when they notice your cup is empty!