One of the most surprising things while touring Windsor Castle and the Queen’s House was the auditory storytelling. At each site, we were given headphones and a device that let us listen to the stories behind every artifact, facet, and room we visited. It added a real oomph to the experience. The narrator’s voice was captivating and delivered the information in such a unique, interesting, and engaging way. It’s a clever idea to have storytelling that unfolds as you explore. Especially from a hospitality perspective, that’s definitely a bonus—it keeps guests involved and curious.
Switching gears to the distillery tour, we had the chance to taste one of their Bombay Sapphire drinks—and it was perfectly balanced. What made the experience even more special was that we got to mix the drinks ourselves, which added a personal and interactive touch. I also enjoyed the video that told the story behind the distillery and the evolution of Bombay Sapphire. It’s always nice to learn the background of the places you visit and the products you try—it makes everything feel more intentional.
Now, let’s talk about art. We visited the Tate Modern and also took a cruise along the Thames River—two experiences I really enjoyed.
At the Tate, it was refreshing to explore modern art and learn about the different pieces. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to fully immerse myself in the experience because it was very crowded, which turned me off a bit. Still, I wandered through the shops and saw some amazing books and artworks.
As for the Thames River Cruise, that was one of my favorite activities of the trip. We sailed down the river and got to see the different buildings and architectural styles of London. What really made it memorable, though, was our guide. He was witty and humorous, and I naturally gravitate toward people who can make clever jokes—it shows intelligence and makes everything more fun. He made the historical commentary so much more enjoyable.
Some professional takeaways from these experiences—from the art to the storytelling to the river guide—are that hospitality can absolutely be fun. People appreciate a sense of humor, a human touch, and a dose of creativity. These elements can all be part of the service experience, and I’m convinced that when done right, they only make it better.