– From US$340 (classic room), US$480 (king deluxe with balcony and sea view)
– Only one hour from Dubai and more affordable
– Service standards didn’t live up to expectations in the pool/beach areas and with housekeeping (but nothing to stop us returning)
It’s been a while since I approached a hotel and felt a real ‘Wow’ factor. At Waldorf Astoria I made up for lost time with ‘wows’ at the imposing entrance and again as I gazed around the lobby and adjacent Peacock Alley lounge area with its grand staircase and trickling fountain.
More ‘wows’ followed as we entered our superb king deluxe room with balcony and sea view. It was large and comfortable with a separate sleeping and sitting areas. There was a spacious walk-in closet with two open wardrobes and vanity mirror, as well as a beautiful black marble bathroom with separate toilet.
The grounds are extensive and include a huge main pool, popular with families, and a large adult-only pool as well as a 350m private beach which is regularly serviced by staff handing out chilled bottles of water.
Back in the suite, our personal concierge arrives to provide the ‘fragrance master’ service. In a box, on a bed of red rose petals, are four fragrances from which guests choose the one they want used around the room after the turndown service. A unique touch that we appreciated.
By the time night has fallen the candle lanterns on our private balcony have been lit and we are sinking to the comfortable chairs having pre-dinner drinks by candlelight in the warm night air, gazing out towards the Arabian Gulf. Blissfully relaxing and romantic.
The hotel is inspired by the palaces of Arabia but still has touches which nod to the historic Waldorf Astoria New York and its art deco style. Simply put it is stunning.
