From US$250+
– Wonderful buffet breakfast with so much choice
– The unheated children’s pool is a bit of an after-thought
Imagine you would love to visit Asia but can’t right now. Well, if you are based in Europe, The Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa on the Costa Blanca proved a fairly authentic ‘Asia away from Asia’ experience. From the way the staff dress to the elaborate ornamental features, if you woke up in the hotel without knowing how you got there, it might take you a while to notice the difference.
The lobby is vast and impressive, characterised by calm spaces and soaring ceilings. Then there are the expansive gardens. We visited in autumn where brightly coloured blooms were still plentiful. Secluded pathways wind through exotic shrubs, alongside attractive water features. Plenty of thought has been given to the numerous and varied pools, from the wide and sweeping to hidden and exclusive. Different styles of bars and restaurants overlook this pool medley, ensuring that you won’t need to leave your sun lounger for very long.
Our generous sized room had an attractive sliding screens feature to the bathroom, although our balcony overlooked nothing more than a bush which was somewhat unusual. Most other rooms did appear to have views of the grounds and distant city horizons.
The hotel also features a luxury Thai Spa where every treatment you can imagine is available, unfortunately though we did not get to try it but heard some great things from some other guests.
