Saturday, October 11, 2014

Sober thoughts on drinking at the Mandarin Oriental hotel


I don't know how my drinking family and friends and colleagues manage to cope with such quantities of alcohol and still function to travel and work. I missed my planned afternoon out at an exhibition whilst trying to sober up after all the food and drink and lunch and get back my energy to travel on to my next evening event.

For those whose expense accounts allow for a door to door taxi costing nearing £100 to go from the Mandarin Oriental hotel opposite Harrods, to another suburban hotel or nearby city, or one as far away as Reading, is fine. The decision is after during dinner, before and after, between lunch and dinner, either drink more - alcohol or water -  and take taxis, or walk more.

Some people in my family count the costs, the calories, and increase their exercise with long walks from one meeting to another, along the Thames, plotting their route by satnav.

For me, I suppose a leisurely walk in the fresh air or a stroll along Hyde Park might be the answer. For my next visit to a London hotel, if I am invited again, I shall have to opt for less alcohol or more exercise.

Next time I must say firmly to the waiter, "I've had enough alcohol, thank you. I won't be able to function if I drink any more. Can you suggest a coffee, tea or non-alcoholic drink?"

I'm having a dry day today, recovering.

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