Simply Abu Dhabi II

A luxurious haven fit for Kings & Queens. Its 7.30am and we have just touched down at Abu Dhabi airport. Unfortunately only one of us got some sleep on the Etihad flight over fromManchester to Abu Dhabi, so as you can imagine, one half of A&J is very cranky and eager to get to the hotel – ok I admit that’s me – the lovely Jordana can sleep through a tornado. We exit migration, only to be pleasantly greeted by a suave middle aged chap, who is fully suited and booted in a very Victorian toft style manner, donning a crinkle free long tail coat and tall hat. He is confidently holding up a sign with our names clearly illustrated in a beautiful script style font. We look at each other like we have just won the lottery and can not help but grin in glee. We have no idea what means of transport awaits us but based on initial impressions, we are overwhelmed with excitement. We walk about 3 minutes out of the airport and awaiting us, with an almost regal presence, is a bright white Rolls Royce Phantom. Ok in the UK and the EU, we would feel a little awkward but we are in Abu Dhabi and nothing is done in halves. The Emirates Palace anticipated our arrival and they have definitely made an ever-lasting first impression. We are well chuffed. Driving through Abu Dhabi’s business area past the major bustling shopping malls and many local attractions we knew we would be arriving at our incredible destination in no time and our adrenalin was surging at full force. A majestic sight to behold, pulling up at the Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi all our senses were sent reeling as we set eyes on this enchanting landmark and we knew this would be a stay to remember. After all, this is a top end hotel with facilities to match such as its own private beach exclusively for the use of guests. Located in the capital of the United Arab Emirates, the outstandingly lavish Emirates Palace is a national treasure and one of the most impressive hotels and conference venues ever built. With so much to see, do and discover in Abu Dhabi, we were about to do it from the lap of uncompromised luxury. The magnificent interior is truly breathtaking and it’s hardly surprising that many guests seemed rendered speechless upon arrival. As you walk in you can’t fail to be swept away by airy hallways, marvellous marble domes and flowing fountains. We could almost breathe in the luxury that fills the air and sits so comfortably in every recess of the hotel. No words or images can truly justify the effort and detail that has gone into the development of this magnificent venue, in fact it should not be considered a hotel and only thought upon as a Palace in every sense. We had just entered a serene paradise to indulge the senses. We were welcomed by the ice cool, Mr Mohammed Alaoui, who is one of the Communication Managers at EP together with Mr Hazem Harfoush, both eager to ensure the fluidity of elegance and class that we had already become accustomed to upon our arrival at Abu Dhabi airport. After the swift check in, we were taken to our beautiful room, and escorted there by our very own Butler; Mr. Dipak Kumar Das. A chap whose origins stem from South India and someone who is a real gem as a person, his dedication and loyalty to Emirates Palace is second to none. His pride and enthusiasm about the Palace only depicts a level of content rarely found by employees in Hotels these days. EP obviously look after their own and it shows on all their employees and management! Dipak kindly showed us round our room, which to be fair, can’t really be described as a room but more like a mini apartment. Now, we are trying not to be overly bias and don’t want to come across as if the architecture of this article has been co-ordinated by EP themselves, but even the energy in the room was amazing, we felt warmth, comfort and most of all, it was like a home away from home. Every element of the hotel creates an environment and ambience befitting of VIPs and that level of attention was afforded us throughout our stay. Yes, we were staying in a palace and every day we were reminded of it with the first class service and impeccable attention to detail. We have received royal treatment at the hands of not just our personal butler, but also every other member of staff we have encountered. Unrivalled facilities With a huge auditorium and ballroom, 40 meeting rooms, 302 majestic rooms and 92 opulent suites, this is an experience fit for Emperors, Kings and celebrities – many of whom have enjoyed the hospitality of the palace experience for themselves. High end boutiques such as Versace and Rodeo Drive (Designer Clothes Boutique) and Al Kunooz Jewelers are all located within the lobby of the hotel for those wishing to treat themselves or loved ones to something very special. There are also two pools – one on the East Wing designed for relaxation with its swim-up bar and sheer spaciousness and one on the West Wing with slides and waterfalls to appeal to families – so everyone is catered for. We took full advantage of the chance to chill out at the East Wing Pool and soak up some glorious Abu Dhabi sunshine. Combining the ultimate in generous comfort with state of the art technology, our suite was a truly divine haven with a breathtaking gold interior adorned with the finest marble. The decor – a masterful blend of Arabian regal grandeur – cleverly incorporated the latest cutting edge gadgetry for our comfort and convenience. We could easily operate the many appliances including lights, air conditioning and in room entertainment systems via a touch screen hand held control. With Wi-Fi connectivity and LCD screens as well as divinely comfortable beds and furnishings, this was the perfect place to relax and unwind. Our private balcony was a place we could sit and reflect on the amazing events of the day before heading off for a gastronomic treat at our choice of sophisticated venue. With something to appeal to every palate, we were determined to take a culinary journey around the world and sample as much as possible during our stay! EMIRATES PALACE abu dhabi 41 SIMPLY ABU DHABI