Traveling on work, while I do check into Reciprocal Clubs, it isn't always smooth sailing. Many Clubs are yet to move to efficient billing systems. Most close reception desk by early evening, only to open post 9 am. That does become a challenge if one is inclined to catch early morning flights or check in late after dinner. Over the years, I have opted out of Clubs in a few metros, preferring to stay in a hotel (with sometimes the added advantage of a loyalty program)
The Club gossip is best caught in the smoking lounge. There is something that bonds this community and Club politics, cliques, elections etc go hand in hand with those lazy Sunday afternoon beer sessions. Most Clubs, also, have a signature snack or two. So, the RBYC would boast of the Eggs Kejriwal or Devil on Horseback. At the Colombo Swimming Club, you understandably get some lip smacking seafood and cuttlefish salads garnished with herbs and semi-sambol (dried fish and chilli powder). In fact, over the weekends most clubs serve the local fare. I recall having the best Hyderabadi biryani at The Secunderabad Club and of course mouth-watering delicacies like appam, stews and wattalappa (the Sri Lankan variant of caramel custard made with coconut milk) at the Colombo Swimming Club
The Clubs in UK, define the ultimate Club ambiance. The Lansdowne Club offers a walking tour and boasts a slice of history. My preferred drink being gin, the bartender was happy to introduce me to what he termed 'a good sipping gin' - Berkley Square. The Sloane Club has many friendly faces at the bar but a decidedly formal ambiance in the dining hall. However, when Tuna tartare and the likes are on the menu, you don't mind concentrating on the serious task of eating. The weekend breakfasts at these clubs are sumptuous and true blue English - a healthy start to a touristy day in London.
On a holiday, however, nothing is simpler than checking out a Club option. In the year gone by, I tried out for the first time, Clubs in London & Colombo as well stayed at the more familiar Madras Club and all time favourite Royal Mumbai Yacht Club.
A breakfast on the verandah or a drink at the Club bar (depending on when you check in) is the fastest way to settling in. Unlike the buffet breakfasts in five star hotels, where people are either stressed grabbing a quick bite on a working day (or stressing themselves to eat some more on a holiday), Clubs normally stay with a 2-course offer. The warm smile and good morning from other members, a common courtesy, is the clear differentiator.
As for the bar, you would be sure to catch some of the best, traditional cocktails. Old time bartenders and the bond with regular members sharing or guiding them with recipes normally builds capability to make a good cocktail. What's more, from the second visit you do not need to remind a good bartender of your preference, ensuring a welcoming smile and drink as soon as you take the high stool.
The Club gossip is best caught in the smoking lounge. There is something that bonds this community and Club politics, cliques, elections etc go hand in hand with those lazy Sunday afternoon beer sessions. Most Clubs, also, have a signature snack or two. So, the RBYC would boast of the Eggs Kejriwal or Devil on Horseback. At the Colombo Swimming Club, you understandably get some lip smacking seafood and cuttlefish salads garnished with herbs and semi-sambol (dried fish and chilli powder). In fact, over the weekends most clubs serve the local fare. I recall having the best Hyderabadi biryani at The Secunderabad Club and of course mouth-watering delicacies like appam, stews and wattalappa (the Sri Lankan variant of caramel custard made with coconut milk) at the Colombo Swimming Club
Both, the Colombo Swimming Club and the RBYC have breath-taking views and the travel weary may opt to just relax in the room and read.
The Colombo Swimming Club is practically on the beach, with an interesting railway line stretch between the Club boundary and the ocean. Every few minutes, you see a train chug by reminding you of Carl Muller's Yakada-yaka. Anyone with a love for photography could spend hours waiting to catch that perfect skyline shot.
The RBYC, of course, overlooks the Gateway of India and by day or night (with the heritage lighting) is a treat to photograph or just sit back and gaze at. The Club also offers the option of sailing from October to May and if you have only a weekend you can spend it well in and around the Club.
The Colombo Swimming Club is practically on the beach, with an interesting railway line stretch between the Club boundary and the ocean. Every few minutes, you see a train chug by reminding you of Carl Muller's Yakada-yaka. Anyone with a love for photography could spend hours waiting to catch that perfect skyline shot.
The RBYC, of course, overlooks the Gateway of India and by day or night (with the heritage lighting) is a treat to photograph or just sit back and gaze at. The Club also offers the option of sailing from October to May and if you have only a weekend you can spend it well in and around the Club.
The Clubs in UK, define the ultimate Club ambiance. The Lansdowne Club offers a walking tour and boasts a slice of history. My preferred drink being gin, the bartender was happy to introduce me to what he termed 'a good sipping gin' - Berkley Square. The Sloane Club has many friendly faces at the bar but a decidedly formal ambiance in the dining hall. However, when Tuna tartare and the likes are on the menu, you don't mind concentrating on the serious task of eating. The weekend breakfasts at these clubs are sumptuous and true blue English - a healthy start to a touristy day in London.
Over the years what stays with you is the friendliness about a Club. Our singular experience was at the Carlton Club, London. A walking distance from the Houses of Parliament, located on St James Street, this is an unabashed Conservatives Club. It is an evening watering hole for the work weary. The couple of days that we stayed there, every drink was on the house. Friendly members were immensely keen on a conversation and a good drink was that essential facilitator.
Of course, each of us have our own way of enjoying a holiday. If you are one for serious tourism (the kind that checks out on Google and covers every recommended sightseeing spot and eatery) this is not for you. Clubs require a laid-back approach and some degree of flexibility in your itinerary. Some members might also be a tad intrusive and you have to be comfortable with and ready to make new friends. Also, defined by rules, regulations and a closed membership process, each Club develops a character and ambiance of its own. So when you check in, stay open to being surprised.
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