SimplyAbuDhabi VII

2 8 4 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I ideal blend of ancient andmodern, bringing together the glamour for which Bulgari is traditionally known with innovative sustainable design features and cutting-edge technology. And the design has been executed to perfection by local architects Squire and Partners. We were thrilled to be in the company of an incredibly sophisticated roster of talented and renowned guests. Among the most exciting people to mingle with were creative artists working in film andmusic. Alongside British stars such as Florence Welch, Rosamund Pike and Dev Patel were Isabella Rossellini from Italy, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan from India, Li Xiao Ran from China, and Hyo-Jin Kim from South Korea. It was a truly global occasion, underlining the worldwide appeal of the renowned Bulgari brand. Speechless Delicious non-alcoholic cocktails formed a superb part of the warm welcome we received. But for us, the stand-out element of the event was a guided tour of the hotel. We listened in awe as we were told that many of the furnishings and textiles here were made exclusively for Bulgari by the finest Italian manufacturers. There are no fewer than 85 rooms and suites, all of which feature exquisite detailing throughout. We had the opportunity to look inside some, and when we saw the fittings, we were absolutely speechless: their beauty took our breath away. For example, we could not quite believe our eyes when we saw the delightful custom-made silk curtains, with patterns inspired by classic Bulgari jewellery designs (a really clever touch). Continuing in a similarly lavish vein were the bedside table lamps inspired by Bulgari’s silver candlesticks: we virtually swooned when we saw them. Providing a core of sheer luxury throughout the sumptuous building, the silver theme continues right into the restaurant and bar (which serves an excellent range of non- alcoholic drinks). Among the most impressive of the vast range of luxurious trappings we saw were two stunning solid silver Bulgari chandeliers right at the very heart of the hotel’s ballroom. At this stage, we hardly need to add that these had been lovingly fashioned by the hands of the finest Italian craftsmen. to experience the lavish Bulgari Private Spa Suite. Its opulent design features two treatment beds, a dressing roomwith private bathroom, an amazing steam shower, and a plush private relaxation room. A really striking additional feature was the over- sized hydro massage tub: we were simply amazed by the spectacular green onyx backdrop. And fittingly for such incredible surroundings, the treatments you can receive here are nothing short of first class. We were told that one of the most popular treatments is the Renewing Enzyme Facial, which is designed to boost cell regeneration and give an instantly smooth, softly glowing complexion. Another is the Body Radiance Treatment, which is renowned for revitalising the skin to leave it radiant and glowing. However, there is a whole array of other amazing treatments on offer: not only facials and body treatments, but also body rituals, massages, maternity treatments and those aimed specifically at men. Among the finest attractions of the hotel is a sumptuous spa – and we were also ecstatic that we had the chance to sample an experience of pure luxury here. The Bulgari spa shows all the commitment to exquisite design detail that you would expect from the brand. Covering an area of 2,000 square metres (21,528 square feet), the Bulgari Spa, as elsewhere in the hotel, combines the best of traditional heritage and contemporary design. The sumptuous complex is spread over two levels, and a wonderful destination in its own right. As soon as you enter the spa, you feel as if the busy world outside has simply melted away. The elegant Vicenza stone and the expertly-chosen, refined colour combinations of cognac-like golden tones and shades of green inspire a mood of utter relaxation. The beautiful appearance of the reception area alone, with its gorgeous back-lit reception desk made of beautiful green onyx and glass, is enough to make you drift into a world of peaceful bliss. Sheer tranquility And that’s before you enter the tranquillity of the spa itself. There are 11 individual treatment rooms here, and we had the chance