Fresh Insider Information: Staying in a Quarantine Hotel
15 April 2021
Inside Scoop on Quarantine Hotels
We asked hydrographic surveyor James Hancock about his experience in a quarantine hotel in London after returning from an essential work trip to Angola. He details the process of entering the country, the ambiance of the hotel, and what quarantine felt like for him during this challenging time.
So You’re on Day Eight, Only Two More Days Left?
‘Two and a half. What they don’t tell you in advance is that they advertise it as 10 days in the hotel, but day one counts as day zero, so that racks it up to 11 days; then you’re not allowed to leave until the stroke of midnight at the end of your 10 days. So I got here on 28 February, and I’m not actually allowed to leave until 11 March. How that counts as 10 days I’m not quite sure.’
What Do You Do for Work and Why Did You Leave During Lockdown?
‘I’m a hydrographic surveyor – basically offshore construction work. I was working just offshore from Angola, so I went through Angola on the way home from work.’
Were You Aware You’d Have to Quarantine While You Were There?
‘No, because I left home on 3 January before they announced the red list. We actually went out via France to avoid quarantine problems. After an eight-week job at sea, I was taken to a quarantine hotel upon returning to the UK, which felt quite abrupt, especially having spent so long isolated at sea.’
The Quarantine Hotel Process
‘Work made the arrangements for the hotel, and my only issue was the confusion over the hotel name, as you don’t know where you’ll be staying until you arrive back in the UK.’
Arrival and Security Measures
‘Upon arrival at Heathrow, we were escorted to the hotel by officials. The protocol in place was very organized, with security personnel guiding us through each step. There were strict measures to ensure everyone followed quarantine guidelines.’
What Hotel Are You At and What’s It Like?
‘I’m at the Holiday Inn London Heathrow, Bath Road. It’s a decent hotel; they are managing well under the circumstances. However, the view from my room includes a high mesh fence with razor wire at the top, which definitely adds to the feeling of confinement.’
Room Conditions and Fresh Air
‘The rooms are a decent size, but you cannot open the windows, which becomes noticeable after several days without fresh air. You do get a chance to go outside for limited periods, but it resembles more of a prison yard due to the security.’
Food Options
‘The menu rotates weekly, providing a variety of meals. While some dishes are enjoyable, the overall dining experience is not gourmet. Fortunately, there are options to order food from outside the hotel, which I found to be a great relief.’
Alcohol Policies
‘Yes, alcohol is permitted. I ordered a bottle of rum shortly after arrival, which has helped make my evenings a bit more enjoyable while watching movies.’
Security and Safety
‘The overall security and safety measures were very good. However, there have been a few disturbances late at night due to the chatter of security personnel right outside my room, which I raised with them.’
Interaction with Fellow Quarantined Guests
‘While socializing isn’t really an option, you do see fellow guests during your outdoor time, which provides some semblance of connection amidst the isolation.’
Advice for Future Quarantined Individuals
‘Be sure to bring some exercise equipment, as staying active is crucial. I’ve set up my room in a way that allows me to differentiate between spaces for sleeping, eating, and exercise.’
Would You Quarantine Again?
‘Honestly, if it meant I could travel for an extended holiday, I would consider repeating this experience, although the cost is a significant consideration.’
Singer Anna Reay on Performing for Quarantined Guests
‘I sang outside the Mercure George Washington hotel in the north-east of England for the crew of a quarantined ship. It was rewarding to witness the joy music brought to those stuck inside. The response was overwhelming and highlighted the power of music to uplift spirits.’
‘Since pivoting my business during the lockdown, I have been doing performances in various locations, aiming to spread joy and connection through music, even in unconventional settings.’
