Mariam Nihal
Saudi Gazette
Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa is located by JBR beach in a setting that is jam-packed with Saudi visitors during (before and after) Eid. After all since when do you need a reason to go to Dubai? But unlike other relaxing (as is the concept of) resorts, this one is a full house. And it sure makes you feel like you are watching that scene from Home Alone when the family leaves Kevin at home in a rush to reach the airport while you are stranded somewhere in between the mayhem. However, once you do get access and are shown to your room, which maybe confusing considering the new wing and different allocations for rooms and suites, you can be grateful, for the storm is over. If you are on a mission to explore and indulge in some active beach sports while staying at the chosen property, then you are at the right place. With a buffet that resembles your Eid mornings with the entire family buzzing around the table, this Le Royal Meridien property refuses to offer a dull moment.
The massive property offers more than five hundred rooms. In addition to three temperature controlled swimming pools, you can enjoy water sports, wind surfing, beach volleyball, kayaking, sailing, banana boat rides, tennis, squash, a kid’s Club with daily activities and an award winning reputation of international restaurants. Most of the rooms are basic with a sea view or at least partially depending on your luck or location. The sizes are satisfactory and quite a good combination for those mostly traveling on business trips or wish to stay outdoors as their preferences tend to contemplate comfort more than luxury and aesthetics.
But the best thing yet is the hotel’s culinary treasure. Their new entrée Geales is a fascinating discovery. It serves one of the best Fish N Chips in the MENA region and is true to its origin. Geales Dubai is the third venue outside of the UK, its country of origin. You can walk in and choose your meal starting with different sea food starters and move on to a gourmet selection of local fish or Grilled Rib-Eye, Mussels Marinière, or try The Tower of Geales, which is a whimsical fresh seafood platter with shellfish, crustaceans, crudo delicacies, small bites and homemade sauces.
Al Khaimah is popular with the Arabs who enjoy a relaxed evening with traditional delights and shisha outdoors.
In case you have had a full day, head to their luxury spa situated across three floors. Caracalla is a Roman themed spa and health club and works as a retreat for your senses. Currently, with any treatment booked for an hour you can get thirty minutes complimentary massage (back, foot, scalp, hands or face massage). In case you’re a yoga fanatic, they practice hatha yoga using postures (Asana) and conscious breathing (Pranayama) to help to develop your core-strength and well being on a regular basis.
With conference and banqueting services that can host from 20 to 350 people with a full range of audio-visual equipment and technical support, you can explore their landscaped poolside gardens and beach for further possibilities. For entertainment or private functions, the hotel can accommodate groups of 30 to 1500 for all types of occasions.
Nearby attractions include Wild Wadi, Dubai Museum, Madinat Theatre, Emirates Golf Club, Marina mall and many more. Next time you are at JBR for an adventurous trip, explore your options at Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa. Especially if you are a fan of hustling.
