From the desk of Penelope Alice, Britain’s most fabulous PA: American Express Invites VIP lounge at the O2

Mr P likes to have a trick or two up his sleeve so he can cater to all of his clients and it’s almost always down to me to suggest some new hospitality options. What better way to impress music fans than with an exclusive suite at the O2 Arena? I was asked to come along and see the new back-stage American Express Invites VIP lounge at the venue and I have to say it made me want to unleash my inner rock star.

The lounge has recently re-opened following a £2.6 million refurbishment. I didn’t see the space before the facelift, but I’ve been told the difference is astonishing. It’s big enough to be a warehouse and features many of the quirky charms of a re-purposed building. The cocktail bar in the middle is lit by a funky metal cage with light bulbs dotted around it, which is suspended from the ceiling, while the chic sofas and chairs distributed about the room add a modern twist.

At one end of the room is a traditional bar with beer, wine and soft drinks and on the opposite side is a dining area that features scrumptious sharing dishes created by Levy Restaurants. I sampled many of the menu items and the risotto croquettes especially are to die for.

As if the VIP treatment isn’t enough, I found out that many of the performing artists prefer to spend their post-show down time in the lounge chatting with fans rather than in their own green room behind the stage. If that doesn’t get Mr P’s clients excited, I don’t know what will. It’s well worth a look at the website at theo2.co.uk/the-vip-experience.

This blog originally appeared on the PA Life Club site. To read more of Penelope Alice’s blog entries and get access to a range of fantastic benefits, including discounts and special deals at dozens of selected retailers and venues, as well as exclusive monthly competitions, networking events and 50% off PA Life’s new training courses, click here: palife.co.uk/pa-life-club