Simply Abu Dhabi Magazine XXI

2 8 3 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I ease. The interior is almost like a museum, with striking furniture, modern and antique, from all over the globe. Izabelle Lim at the hotel says, “We want our hotel to offer an environment that reflects harmony and a positive atmosphere. Therefore, everybody who works at the hotel has a positive attitude.” Evenings at Hotel Hellsten are best spent in the Earth bar, which is decorated with African masks, drums and arrows, Asian furniture and many more curiosities collected by the owner who used to work as an anthropologist. On Thursdays the bar becomes one of Stockholm’s premier jazz venues. Last but not least is the Grand Hôtel, the place where dignitaries, visiting heads of state, world leaders, rock stars, actors and the great and the good stay in Stockholm – not to mention those nominated or awarded the Nobel Prize. An imposing building situated in prime position on the waterfront, this has been the place to stay since it was established in 1874. Needless to say the hotel is a destination in its own right, with a first rate spa and Michelin- starred restaurant. So, as you relax in the lobby, enjoy refreshment in the bar, or dine in the restaurant, keep in mind you might be enjoying a similar view as the likes of Martin Luther King, Frank Sinatra or Greta Garbo did. See the book in the gift shop for a staggering list of previous guests. Thankfully the five-star Grand Hôtel welcomes everyday bon vivants who want to enjoy some time at this most illustrious of Stockholm’s addresses.