It was Notting Hill Carnival Friday and I was excited. No, not because the King of Soca was performing at Wembley but because I was off to my very first Olympia party – C’est La Vie. It’s a premium all-inclusive event where everyone is treated like a VIP. My destination was Ark Royal, a North London banqueting suite.
Olympia has been hosting premium events in London since August 2021, which take place in April, August and October each year. Summer 2024 marked Olympia’s second annual all-inclusive event, and the first marketed as C’est La Vie. It’s already carved out a reputation as a must-attend highlight on the Notting Hill Carnival calendar.
I had seen pictures and reviews of past events, but this would be my first time attending one. As a premium all-inclusive, I felt this would be just my kind of party! Ticket prices for the event started at around £140.
The claims were bold. “At C’est La Vie, our top priority is delivering an unforgettable, ultra-premium experience. With our motto, ‘Everyone is VIP’, we go the extra mile to ensure guests feel their time and money were well spent. Each event showcases stunning decor, exclusive Olympia merch – including the coveted, ever-evolving Olympia cup – and top-tier service.”
So, would it live up to the hype?
On arrival at the venue, I was greeted by two female members of the Olympia team, who adorned me with a Hawaiian Lei Luau flower garland. Once inside, I picked up my turquoise metal C’est La Vie flute, complete with cover and straw – a fine addition to my collection of around 35.
The hall was attractively decorated with balloons and greenery. Olympia staff in black T-shirts and white and gold Olympia branding were at hand to serve guests.
I made straight for the stand in the right-hand corner to spend a few minutes sampling the well-made doubles before making my way to the bar. Its 360-degree layout meant that no matter where you stood, you didn’t have to wait long to be served, as bar staff were always available to fill your cup.
The bar was well-stocked, offering a choice of rums – Wray & Nephew, El Dorado, Captain Morgan and Mount Gay – Hennesy and Courvoisier brandies, plus gin, vodka, tequila and, of course, rum punch. This writer’s tipple of choice was the 5-Year El Dorado rum.
Members of the Olympia staff circulated with trays laden with, for example, curry goat and roti, corn soup, ackee and saltfish, macaroni pie, jerk chicken tacos, jerk pork, oxtail, stew chicken and festival. The wide variety of food amply justified the ticket price.
Outside, a choice of coconut water, ice cream and doughnuts, snow cones and freshly cooked jerk chicken awaited any still-hungry guests.
And before I forget, DJ Levels, Kal-I, Buzz B, Chris Hotshot, Triple M and DJ Armani provided a good mixture of music. We even had stilt-walkers.
The organisers had good reason to be satisfied, telling Soca News: “Seeing the event materialise from a concept at the beginning of the year to a sold-out occasion was a success for us. Knowing that our Olympians still supported us in the midst of a very jam-packed and star-studded Carnival Friday felt wonderful for our team.”
My verdict was that for anyone looking for an event that provides value for money, unlimited fun and a genuinely all-inclusive experience, then C’est La Vie is for you.
All in all, La vie c’etait bon!
