Hotel Reviews Archives — Page 5 of 5

September 27, 2016 by annbenjamin 0

Four Seasons Sayan: My #1 hotel in the world.

Having finished our experience in the north of Bali (Tulamben), we ‘drove’ over some ‘roads’ to reach the city of Ubud. Now, I have been creeping on the Four Seasons Sayan website since we made the booking and I can tell you the property is even better than its pictures or reviews. Equal parts tropical and private, the property is perfectly proportioned at 60 keys. With a smaller total number of guests (and a very high ratio of staff to guests), the lush property never feels crowded. I timed our arrival slightly early to (hopefully) take the most advantage of our room (which, unfortunately, was only 2.5 days). On arrival, we informed that although our room wasn’t ready, we had been upgraded. It was at this time we also met the first of many of the senior managers. This was not in a planned way, simply, these hospitality professionals wanted…

August 16, 2016 by annbenjamin 0

Hotel Reviews, Other Emirates

Oasis in the desert… Banyan Tree Al Wadi.

While making plans to go to the Atana, I decided that rather than make the three-hour trip all at once, it might be nice to break the drive up. Hubs and I went to the Banyan Tree Al Wadi in 2014 (as a vacation from our holiday, if that makes sense) when the Entertainer was offering their 2 for 1 deal. Turns out (and we never knew this before), having a private pool might be our favorite thing ever. If you’ve not been before, Banyan Tree is an international brand, and we’re fortunate enough to have two separate properties in the UAE. While the Beach property is tempting, Booking.com’s rate of AED880 (including breakfast) at Al Wadi was simply too good to pass up. Be whirled away upon a magical journey across desert plains with true Arabian nights, desert adventure, Middle Eastern fauna and nomadic romance. Step into a privileged…

August 15, 2016 by annbenjamin 0

Hotel Reviews, Oman

A rustic visit to Oman: Antana Musandam.

While I am more familiar with Muscat and Dibba, it was wonderful to explore a side of Oman I had never previously visited. Located in the Musandam (known for its stunning mountains and vistas), Atana Musandam is roughly 3 hours from Dubai (including a stop at the border). We decided to break up the trip by spending a night in Ras Al Khaimah (a tip I would recommend to anyone considering the journey). Once crossing the border, we had our cameras out to try and capture some of the stunning views of the ‘fjords’ of Oman. Even better? This is not a particularly well-traveled road. Depending on the time of year, you’ll have the coast-hugging motorway more or less to yourself. The climbs and switchbacks are nothing short of amazing. Although there is radio reception, be sure to plan for a good road trip mix to enhance the journey. Upon arrival…

July 15, 2016 by annbenjamin 0

Dubai, Hotel Reviews

One&Only Royal Mirage Dubai… Or, the Residences.

Have you ever had a dream property in a city? No? Just me? I’ve got a few fantasy destinations picked out in most places and the One&Only has long (loooooong) been on my list for Dubai. (Also worth noting: the Al Maha Resort and Nurai Island, along with the Chedi Muscat and Zighy Bay in Oman). With a combination of the need for a staycation combined with our 13th wedding anniversary, I decided this was the time to pull the trigger. Looking on Booking.com, there were some good deals running (especially as the Eid holiday was about to start last week). Given a choice, I will nearly always pick a Club Room — we haven’t had a bad experience in one yet. Having access to a good (free) cocktail hour tends to be a great start to an evening. Furthermore, booking a higher category room tends to lead to upgrades on…

October 7, 2015 by annbenjamin 0

Abu Dhabi, Hotel Reviews

Best Weekend in Abu Dhabi? Fairmont Bab al Bahr 36 Hour Weekend Package.

Having visited and taken advantage of this experience no less than 3 times, I can honestly say the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr’s 36 Hour Weekend Package is among the most relaxing ways to spend two days in the capital. We first went for this package back in 2010, when we were residents of Dubai, and have been back when living in Doha and with friends during our current stay in Abu Dhabi. With an all you can eat and drink brunch, early check in, a luxe room, breakfast, lunch and a late checkout – it’s a great value. There is enough time to go big at brunch and completely recover the next day. Finally, given the proximity to the Souq Qaryat Al Beri, if the weather isn’t too warm, you can walk over and have a look around (or another drink). Reservations? Made online (and not through a third party). Given the package, I…