Prague's Hotel Savoy Review
by Tom Wuckovich

With the Prague Castle virtually at its back door, you would think the Hotel Savoy would suffer from an inferiority complex. On the contrary, this luxurious, intimate boutique hotel near the heart of the city is every bit as regal as its neighbor. Not only does it boast an outstanding pedigree, it routinely plays host to royal guests.

The Savoy was renovated inside and out and re-opened in 1994, restoring its Art Nouveau façade but modernizing its interior without losing its elegant ambiance. Each of the luxurious 55 rooms and four junior suites are fully air-conditioned and superbly decorated in schemes of Bordeaux, royal blue and honey yellow. Exquisite marble bathrooms with separate water closet and heated floors are a thoughtful touch, while the amenities such as telephone, fax machine, safe, complimentary mini-bar, radio, satellite TV, VCR and computer data port speaks volumes about its 21st century upgrades.

A member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World, the hotel's philosophy reflects privacy and highly personalized guest services. It offers its guests a complimentary welcome drink, free consumption from the mini-bar, complimentary daily newspaper, full concierge and travel services, 24-hour room service, shoeshine service, underground parking, limousine service and car rental, beauty parlor and hair dresser. With such comprehensive service, it would make it difficult to leave the hotel. However, its location is perfectly suitable to exploring the nearby surroundings, which include some of the most famous sights in Prague, such as the Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, the National Gallery, Strahov Monastery, the Church of St. Nicholas, Charles Bridge, the Old Town Square and the Jewish Quarter. All are within walking distance, but should one tire, a tram stops directly across the street from the Savoy.

A marvelous way to unwind after a day of sightseeing or shopping is to enjoy a bit of respite at the Lobby Bar, decorated in English style and offering a cozy atmosphere. This stylish watering hole is a traditional meeting place for prominent artists, business leaders and Prague's cultural elite. On one particular occasion, Sean Connery, of James Bond fame and a frequent guest at the Savoy, was sitting alone contentedly sipping his vodka martini. While he was quite placid, the waitress was shaken, if not stirred.

Just off the bar is the renowned Restaurant Hradcany, distinguished in all of Europe for its innovative and exciting cuisine, along with a diverse selection of domestic and international wines. This grand, imperial room manned by a friendly, attentive staff serves gourmet local and continental cuisine. At the touch of a button, the glass cupola glides open and the windows silently sink into the floor, instantly transforming the restaurant into a light and airy garden dining experience. An after-dinner drink in the library before an open fireplace might be the perfect way to end the evening.