Simply Abu Dhabi VIII

2 8 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I feel crowded when you stay here: these seating areas are located both downstairs and upstairs, as well as outside. The general manager, Arbind Shrestha, envisages that the villas will be used for conferences and fabulous social events. He also thinks they would be suited to launches for top of the range automobiles – and for those who just want a break they will remember for a long time afterwards. Mr Shrestha has said of the villa experience: "It's a mini hotel within the hotel but there is a homey atmosphere about the family villas that are designed to be the last word in comfort." The two villas that are geared more towards social events, however, have a very different feel. One is painted in bold, confident colours – scintillating oranges and deep reds. This is décor that really demands to be noticed. And the artwork is absolutely fascinating. For example, there is one intriguing piece that incorporates the leather caps traditionally used by people handling birds of prey. It’s the kind of thing that is simply guaranteed to get people relaxed, chatting and having a good time. The companion villa to this one is nicknamed 'Wet and Wild' – and it is opulence personified. The floors have been tiled in luxurious gold and silver, while the walls are decorated in a crushed glass pebbledash style that really allows them to shine. And shine they certainly do, especially when the glitterballs on the ceiling are reflecting light. And if any guests are in need of a rest, there’s a sunken jacuzzi at one end of the sitting area. There’s also a bar that serves delicious non-alcoholic drinks. A ceiling decorated in brilliant crushed glass with sparkling silver lights helps to create the impression that the visitor is in a sophisticated and upmarket New York nightclub. We’re sure you’ll agree that it sounds incredible. It is...but there’s still more to tell you. The stairs of this villa are really striking. They are lit in blue neon, taking guests to the huge master bedroom. Here’s you’ll find an incredible circular jacuzzi – and a glass- walled shower with a beautiful finely beaded curtain. The superb amenities of the villas are certainly spectacular – but what we really love about the Shangri-La is that quality runs through every part of it. Whether you choose a villa, a suite, or a room, you can be sure that you will have the experience of a lifetime. And what’s more, the Shangri-La also has 161 spacious serviced apartments, ranging from studios to four–bedroom units. We feel that these are ideal for longer stays – and let’s face it, anyone who comes here is likely to want to stay longer! I hope we’ve now given you a good idea of the sublime levels of luxury, quality and style that’s on offer at the Shangri-La. But we need to stress that it’s fabulously situated,