Hotel Review: Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort
Posted on 19 December 2010 with 1 comment from readers
You almost feel guilty sunbathing on the beach while Europe in deep in snow. But of course that is why people come for the winter sun to resort hotels like the Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach on the east coast of the UAE, an hour-and-a-half fast transfer from Dubai International Airport.
This hotel is especially popular with families, both from Europe and locally with an extensive Penguin Club for kids, a relatively recent addition. A storm damaged the beachfront facilities a couple of years ago, and the hotel decided to invest in the kids club as well as a very pleasant Italian restaurant with an al fresco terrace and a cosy bar next to the Indian Ocean.
Water sports
You also have a full Padi diving school on the premises and other water sports. This means it is not necessary to leave the hotel to be fully entertained for a week. There are also two other dining options, Thai and Indian, in addition to an all-day international dining restaurant, for which full-board guests receive a credit.
Look at the Internet reviews for this hotel and you cannot but be impressed by the many entries praising the helpful staff. The large and comfortable rooms also get high marks, as does the view. This hotel towers above a beautiful stretch of Indian Ocean and the sundowns are spectacular.
On the beach you have palm-leafed shades and sun loungers with full bar service. For some exhausted Europeans escaping the freezing winter this is already close to heaven, and this hotel is often pretty full.
Nice location
ArabianMoney particularly liked the location and the drive from Dubai is also rather relaxing through the modest mountains of this region. If we had one complaint it was that the club lounge did not serve alcohol and only served rather basic sandwiches and tea.
On the other hand, the gym is full size and the spa also looked very enticing. You even have a fair range of upmarket shopping if you want to buy something, and the Christmas tree lighting ceremony last weekend was well done.
Go there and you are likely to have plenty to keep you occupied and amused as well as relaxed.
1 Comment posted by readers:
Thanks for the great review. The alcohol service at the club lounge is avoided to respect the local culture as it is a common place for all families and kids staying in the club rooms and suites. We serve the happy hour drinks at the 20th floor bar which offers a stunning 360 degree view of the area.