IT'S easy to feel like a fish out of water in London.

That is especially so if you are more used to staying in budget hotels with three children in tow, rather than upmarket boutique examples like the Jumeirah Lowndes.

Located in the millionaire's postcode of SW1, it is the kind of location you expect to see paparazzi camped outside taking photos of celebrities.

If Belgravia sounds posh that's because it is and the Jumeirah Lowndes is right at the heart of it. That said, its location, set a few streets back from the main thoroughfare grants it tranquility in a city that generally finds it hard to sleep.

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I doubt many of its visitors get there having walked from the nearest tube station, but it is conveniently located not too far, but not too near from its Knightsbridge stop.

On arriving you are greeted in traditional fashion by a resplendently dressed doorman who addresses you with a reverential, yet friendly tone.

The door is held open and more voices greet you as you enter.

Check-in takes a matter of minutes and then you are shown to your room and given the tour. The decor en route is opulent and yet tasteful and that is reflected once inside.

The bed dominates the room, but there is plenty of room in which to relax and freshen up. Mirrors give the impression of even more space than there actually is and big windows ensure a light and airy feel.

There's a welcoming sofa with view of the flatscreen TV, an area to make drinks and what could almost be a mini-office, many guests no doubt having to conduct business as well as enjoying a little pleasure.

The bathroom is not huge, but nevertheless you are able to go about your ablutions in comfort.

Once ready, finding somewhere to go is easy. Taxis are readily available, there's the aforementioned tube, or you can do as I did and take a stroll into town.

Knightsbridge is a terrific area if, like me, you enjoy a spot of people watching, gazing at the luxury apartments or casting an envious eye over the bespoke motors parked outside. There are some lovely, if expensive places to eat nearby, or you can head into the beating heart, enjoy a proper night out and still have time to make the last train back.

An alarm call was necessary to rise me from my slumber such was the silence that enveloped me as I slept - no heavy footsteps in the corridor, no reversing bin lorries on the street, no maids asking if they can come in and replenish your milk cartons at 8am.

Breakfast can be taken inside or on the terrace. Sadly, however, the weather was a little inclement during my stay and al fresco was out of the question.

Nevertheless, the experience was just as nice in the confines of the hotel.

There was the same friendly greeting, yet there was no hovering from overly attentive waiters or maitre d's. All tastes and requirements are catered for and individual requests - I like my scrambled eggs firm not runny, bacon just so and Marmite for my toast - are responded to accurately and with a smile.

I could get used to such splendour, but sadly my stay was just for the one night. It's back to budget stays, but the doorman is not to know that and his cheery 'goodbye' and 'do come again' ensure my cover remains intact.

For more on the Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel visit www.jumeirah.com/en/hotels-resorts/london/jumeirah-lowndes-hotel. It can be found at 21 Lowndes Street, London, SW1X 9ES. For hotel enquiries call 0207-823 1234.