The brainchild of christina ong, who advocates a truly holistic approach to modern wellness, the como shambhala name represents a commitment to self care and a mindful approach to everything from nutrition to exercise and spa treatments. They advocate life’s luxuries alongside conscious decision making to look after health. In doing so they have created an experience that can be enjoyed in its different guises, but with its same core values and style, around the world. In the case of como metropolitan london, that means flawless contemporary surroundings as well as facilities and customer service that aims to fit with the demands of modern life. So the gym is open 24 hours a day complete with separate steam rooms for men and women. Personal training is also available along with yoga and other mind and body disciplines to promote wellbeing.

Spa treatments are very much at the heart of the como shambhala experience. At como metropolitan london there are six treatment rooms including two double rooms complete with steam showers. Therapies draw on balinese traditions and yogic principles, designed by experts with a professional as well as intuitive talent for health and wellbeing. Holistic treatments range from signature facials and massages created using the brand’s own techniques and products, to energy therapy, reflexology, reiki and acupuncture. In particular, they have uniquely well designed pregnancy treatments for mums to be, an indication of their truly specialist knowledge and ability to tailor spa treatments to the individual. While it is certainly a spa you can visit for the pure indulgence of the experience, it’s also a spa where you can engage in meaningful wellness direction and information.

Hotel & Accommodation

Location, location, location is everything at como metropolitan london. The hotel is constructed predominantly of white finishes and is situated in one of london’s most coveted postcodes overlooking hyde park. The interior aspects, designed by united designers, the rooms and suites continue the precedent set by the hotel’s exterior with ultra-modern furnishings, large windows and a neutral palette interrupted at times by a shock of purple – an orchid here, a cushion there.

Food at como metropolitan london is also very much a feature in its own right. British chef richard h. Turner oversees the live-fire grill restaurant, gridiron. Meanwhile, executive chef mark edwards heads up one of the most innovative kitchens in the capital, offering japanese-peruvian cuisine at nobu. The met bar is also a famously popular destination. Offering vintage champagne and cocktails, it’s been known to host the rich, famous and lavishly behaved over the years.

Recommended for

• City breaks

• Mother and daughter

• Pregnancy

• Family friendly