Saturday

Hotel Abalu

Spain Madrid City Centre Why Madrid?

Madrid Barajas 15km

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Reviewed by Michael Soffe

A VISION REALISED ..............

Yet another wonderfully located Hotel, near the Gran Via and within walking distance of the trendy Chueca area. A couple of minutes walk takes you to the Noviciados Metro station (on Lines 2 and 10) and almost the same distance is the Plaza de Espana station (on Lines 1 and 10). This is a small, 10-bedroomed Hotel situated on the first floor of an old building (although not the most prepossessing edifice) on a small side street (Calle de la Pez), near to all amenities. Opened in 2005 by Carlos and his business partner, Antonio, it has already achieved an excellent reputation. They are a dynamic young team and have a great vision – plans for the future spa, cafeteria and more rooms are very exciting.

They certainly did their research when planning Hotel Abalu and the result is very pleasing to the eye. Interior designer Luis Delgado has given the Hotel a striking contemporary feel. As it is on the first floor you will need to take the lift or the stairs to reach the small reception area. There is little use of colour except black, cream and white, stunning lighting and a spartan use of contemporary objects. Not your normal Hotel reception, you almost feel as if you are entering a Hi-tech bar or nightclub – but this is no normal Hotel. Carlos believes the success of the Hotel has been the exceptional level of personalised service. I and his clients agree with him. The receptionists think nothing of sitting with their clientele for ten or fifteen minutes explaining the sites of Madrid. They will even just have a chat. Carlos and Antonio are determined to maintain this “personal touch” as they expand, as they know it is pivotal to their continued success.

The Spa, small cafeteria and five more bedrooms are presently being finished on the ground floor of the building. We will advise on their completion.

The 10 bedrooms, whilst not the largest are beautifully decorated each one in a different manner. There is a Junior Suite, 6 Standard Doubles and 3 Twins. They too are contemporary in feel – I loved the screen-printed black and white face of a woman above one of the beds. Effective use of subdued lighting makes them romantic. The Junior Suite is the largest with a black slate Jacuzzi bath in the room. They are equipped with TV (no satellite s available as yet, but is coming soon), Wi-Fi internet access, heating, air-con, mini-bar and safe. All rooms have DVD players and films are available at no cost in reception. Many of the rooms are around a centre patio and therefore there are no views and natural light is limited. Do not let this put you off as the lighting is so stunning in the rooms!

Breakfasts are served in your room on request (although once the cafeteria is open on the ground floor they may be taken there). There is a small area in reception with a computer and internet access available for your use.

An ideal Hotel for those who want a small intimate Hotel in a central location with highly personalised service. Excellent value for money.

An Amazing

An Amazing Hotel That Gives Dubai an Architectural Run for Its Money

Whereas most of the new, awe-inspiring hotels and structures are popping up in and around Dubai, the Hareem Architects firm has just announced their plans for the Full Moon Rising and Caspian Plus hotels, which look to be one of the most incredible hotels ever built, but their chosen location is the central Asian republic of Azerbaijan. Watch out Dubai, you could have some competition on your hands.

Though Hareem Architects have only been in Azerbaijan since 2007, they were quick to establish themselves and nail down this global attention grabbing project. The entire concept consists of two separate hotels. The first is the Full Moon Rising hotel, which, obviously, is meant to resemble a full moon (or maybe the Death Star anyone?). The 35 story structure will consist of 104,182 square meters of space for 382 rooms, which seems a relatively small amount of rooms given the sheer size of the internal space, but could guarantee that the rooms themselves are quite large. There will also be adequate space for retail and commercial businesses.

The subsequent part of this two-part hotel is the Caspian Plus that includes Crescent Place, both of which are on a neighboring peninsula. Though not as large, the Crescent Place will, too, be a luxury hotel, with 32 floors, 221 hotel rooms and 128 serviceable apartments. The other four buildings that make up the Caspian Plus will house more residential and commercial businesses as well.

Overall this stands to be an impressive compound of structures that should garner some much deserved attention. It's nice to see that Dubai, with all it's wowing abilities, has inspired the world over to kick up their game in the architectural field. Let's hope the inspiration keeps spreading.

star

With the announcement of Europe’s first six star service hotel and residential resortPalacio da Quinta on the Portuguese Algarve a couple of days back, we set out to discover some more tasty accommodation morsels to show you what living in true luxury really means if you like to travel (and rest) in style.

It seems that five star hotels are no longer the norm when it comes to bedding our heads for the night. These days it is caviar, personal butlers and Bentley that are on the menu of savvy and wealthy globetrotters.

1. Town House Galleria

First up is the seven star luxurious Town House Galleria in Milan, Italy. Located in the heart of the city, this fairly new hotel offers prestige living and a service menu that will gain you immediate entry into waiting lists that are as long as the green mile.

Offering a personal butler, Bentley and only the best in food and drink, Town House Galleria will make all wishes come true while you stay in Milan. Whether you need tickets to Da Vinci’s Last Supper, get entry to the hottest restaurant in town or need a rare import, it can all be arranged for you and seemingly fast if some reports are to go by.

2. Burj Al Arab Hotel

Dubai’s seven star Burj Al Arab Hotel has long become a synonym for grandeur, class and style. Offering limousine service, private transfer for all guests via private golf cart, private butler service and just about anything else that is being associated with luxury, the Burj Al Arab Hotel is located in the premier Jumeirah Beach area of Dubai.

3. Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi

The Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi was named the worlds finest hotel in the middle east in 2007. Featuring some out of this world indulgence, staying in this hotel would be like stepping into thousand and one night.

Huge plush pillows, plasma TV, private butler service, laptops in each room, wireless Internet, private check in and much more will delight visitors to this splendid seven star hotel.

Yet to be finished luxury hotels

There are several more planned high prestige hotels in various stages of development. Whilst some are scheduled to be completed next month other are not likely to see the light of the day till 2010.

4. Morgan Plaza Beijing

The Morgan Plaza is a super-luxury 7 star hotel under construction in Beijing, China. Although it was set to be finished last month’s, there has been no official confirmation of it completion yet but it definitely going to be completed in time for the Beijing Olympics. When completed it is rumoured to be possibly more luxurious than the Burj Al Arab and has been considered to be the official landmark of China, still in competition with the Shanghai World Financial Center.

The plaza will contain two pavilions, a temple, the world’s best Japanese restaurant and a 600 meter long corridor.

5. The Centaurus Hotel Islamabad

The $350 million, 7-Star Centaurus Hotel in Islamabad, Pakistan will help to put this country on the map for international travellers once the project is completed around 2010.

6. Tameer Towers Abu Dhabi

Tameer Towers in Abu Dhabi is set to complete in 2011 and will incorporate a luxurious seven star hotel.

7. The Flower of the East, Iran

Resembling a Flower as its name suggest, the luxury Persian seven-star hotel, ‘The flower of the East’ is located on Kish Island in Iran and is due to be completed by 2010.

It is clear that the demand for luxurious living while on the road is very high and we are sure that this trend will continue to be strong. The Economist reported on the rise of the Gulfstates on how their property boom seems to just keep going. It is therefore no surprise to see much of these seven star hotels appear in these countries.

The Big Blue

Modern Blackpool hotel with fitness center

Star Rating

Book online or call 1-800-551-2409

Property Amenities

Guests of The Big Blue can enjoy an array of amenities including restaurant, fitness center, conference facilities, complimentary wireless Internet access, and free car parking.

Please note: This hotel does not accept reservations from Stag and Hen groups.

Massage - treatment room(s)
Complimentary breakfast
Pool table
Fitness equipment
Restaurant(s) in hotel
Bar/lounge
Parking (free)
Business center
Conference room(s)

Meeting rooms (small groups)
24-hour front desk
Safe-deposit box - front desk
ATM/banking
Gift shops or newsstand
Dry cleaning service
Elevator/lift
Air-conditioned public areas
Internet access in public areas - complimentary
Internet access - wireless

Rooms

The Big Blue, Blackpool, features 157 guestrooms, all of which include climate control, complimentary wireless Internet access, and DVD players.

More photos

Room Amenities

Internet access - wireless
DVD player
Climate control
Air conditioning
Telephone
Internet access - complimentary
Coffee/tea maker

Wake-up calls
Private bathroom
Hair dryer
Television
Window opens
Electronic/magnetic keys
Cribs (infant beds) available

Dining

Blues Bar and Brasserie - Breakfast lunch and dinner served in modern surroundings. Children can design their own fresh pizza.

Recreation

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or near the hotel; fees may apply.

Ice skating
Personal watercraft

Swimming
Fishing

Policies

This hotel does not accept single sex parties.
Extra person charges may apply depending on hotel policy.

Breakfast is included in the rate. Rollaways and cribs may be available and should be requested at the time of booking; fees may apply.
Photo identification and credit card or cash deposit are required upon check-in for incidental charges.
All special requests are subject to availability upon check-in.

Pets not allowed
Check-in time is 3 PM
Check-out time is 11 AM

Imperial

The Imperial Hotel Blackpool

Situated on the exclusive North Promenade in Blackpool, close to the famous Tower, exciting Pleasure Beach, Grand Theatre, Winter Gardens and only a few miles from the internationally renowned ROYAL LYTHAM ST ANNE'S Golf Course.

The Imperial Hotel is the ideal base from which to enjoy the many attractions Blackpool has to offer. Visit the famous Pleasure Beach with its breathtaking rollercoaster and the world's largest collection of amusement park rides, including the latest attraction, Valhalla.
Or enjoy the magnificent views from the legendary Blackpool Tower. The Grand Theatre, the Opera House, the Hot Ice show, three fun piers and Blackpools choice of clubs and discos offer a different style of entertainment every night of your stay.

Check Availability Here

Enjoy 7 miles of incredible golden beaches, the magic of The Tower Circus as well as the Winter gardens, the Sea Life Centre, Blackpool Zoo, Stanley Park and so much more.

Blackpool is the most colourful and spectacular when the famous Illuminations switch on and millions of bulbs light up the Seafront.

This tranquil haven provides the perfect place to leave the hustle and bustle of the town behind.

Enjoy a sensous massage or a revitalising dip in our exclusive Health and leisure Club offering

Jacuzzi
Solarium
Steam Room
and Hi-Tec Gym

At the Imperial we understand the needs of everyone young and mature.

Whilst you enjoy a SUPERIOR stay in one of England's most famous and well known hotels why not indulge in the finest gourmet menu and extensive wine list at the Seaviews or the more casual menu at the Palm Court

Check Availability Here

Cliffs

Cliffs Hotel

Queens Promenade, FY2 9SG Blackpool

An imposing early 20th century building on the renowned Queen's Promenade, the Cliffs Hotel offers superb accommodation.

Our modern cafe bar, Garden Room restaurant, superb cabaret room and several bars are some of the excellent facilities available to our guests.

Rooms: 163

Hotel Chain: Choice Hotels

Availability

Please enter the dates of your stay to check availability

When would you like to stay?

Hotel Facilities

General

Restaurant – Bar – 24-Hour Front Desk – Newspapers – Non-Smoking Rooms – Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests – Elevator – Heating – Luggage Storage – Gay Friendly – All Public and Private spaces non-smoking

Activities

Sauna – Fitness Centre – Solarium – Massage – Jacuzzi – Indoor Swimming Pool

Services

Meeting/Banquet Facilities – Dry Cleaning – Packed Lunches – Fax/Photocopying – Ticket Service

Internet

Wired internet is available in the business centre and is free of charge.

Guest Parking

Free public parking is possible on site (reservation is not possible).

Hotel Policies

These are general hotel policies. As they may vary per room type; please also check the room description.

Check-In

14:00 hours

Check-Out

10:00 hours

Cancellation

If cancelled up to 3 days before date of arrival, no fee will be charged.

If cancelled later or in case of no-show, the first night will be charged.

Children and extra beds

All children under 2 years stay free of charge when using existing bedding.

All children under 2 years stay free of charge for cots.

Extra beds are not available.

Maximum capacity of total guests in a room is 2.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Accepted credit cards

Visa
Euro/Mastercard
Maestro
Switch

The hotel reserves the right to pre-authorise credit cards prior to arrival.

Hotel information

The Cliffs is renowned for superb food and accommodation and offers its guests fabulous live cabaret entertainment nightly. Excellent leisure facilities include an indoor heated pool, jacuzzi and sauna. Our Jungle Club is every child's idea of paradise. Our fully licensed promenade cafe bar offers panoramic views and delightful surroundings for a drink or snack at any time of the day. Collect your free What's On guide on arrival at the hotel, giving you discounts on many attractions in and around Blackpool.

Food & beverage

Dining at the Cliffs is an experience in itself. Our Garden Room restaurant opens daily for breakfast and dinner. Start the day with a full English breakfast accompanied by fruit juices, cereals and all the toast you need. Each evening our chef Douglas, who has 25 years service with Choice Hotels, prepares a delightful 3 course table d'hôte dinner with plenty of choice at each course. Children will be pleased with their own special menu presented on a colouring and activity sheet.

Room information

All bedrooms are en suite and offer the facilities listed in "room descriptions". Hairdryers are available from reception for a small deposit. Wake-up calls and newspapers can be ordered from reception.

Sea view rooms are available only on request and are subject to availability. A supplement applies and is payable locally.

Area information

The Cliffs hotel is situated on the picturesque Queens Promenade, approximately 20 minutes stroll from Blackpool town centre.

Away from the hustle and bustle of town you can take a pleasant stroll along the promenade towards Bispham, through Jubilee Gardens or head south to the North Pier and the Tower.

There are regular bus and tram routes to destinations further afield such as Cleveleys and Fleetwood in the North, or The Sandcastle and Pleasure Beach in the South.

Travel information

By Car:
- Follow the M55 towards Blackpool; at the end you come to a roundabout, continue straight across onto Yeadon Way.
- Continue across the 1st mini roundabout and past the Yeadon Way pub (on your left).
- At the 2nd mini roundabout turn right and at the 3rd mini roundabout bear left and continue to the junction.
- Turn left onto Waterloo Road, head down Waterloo Road and go straight across the traffic lights and continue until you reach the 2nd set of traffic lights.
- At these lights turn right onto the promenade with the sea on the left.
- Continue along the promenade past Central and North Pier.
- Continuing along the promenade you will come to the Gynn Square roundabout, where you should turn left and continue along the promenade.
- The Cliffs Hotel is on the third block and has a dome over the entrance.

Important information

Full payment is required on arrival by credit/debit card or cash.

Sea view rooms are available by request only and are subject to availability. Supplements apply and are payable locally.

The hotel does not accommodate stag or hen parties.

Sunday

Grosvenor House

Grosvenor House Dubai Apartment Hotel

The exclusive address at the Dubai Marina - with its dazzling views of the Dubai Skyline and the Arabian Sea - this stunning custom designed hotel lies within easy reach of the airport and the new lifestyle hub of Dubai and will offer guests 217 ultra luxurious rooms and suites as well as 205 apartments, each with their exclusive entrance. As one would expect from a name steeped in excellence, guests at Grosvenor House will receive the ultimate in personal service. Butlers, on call 24 hours a day, will attend to the needs of both the hotel and apartment guests with calm efficiency. Rest assured that service will always be accompanied with a smile. The lavish decor will combine Arabian influence with contemporary design and the very latest technology. Breathtaking panoramic views will add another dimension to the Grosvenor experience.Each of the rooms and the apartments, some with private balconies, will have its own climate control. State-of-the-art installations will include satellite channels, CD/DVD on demand, high speed internet access and direct dialling. For guests who demand an even higher level of luxury and service, the hotel boasts the Grosvenor Club over its top ten floors. The Grosvenor Club Lounge on the 44th Floor, with stunning views stretching to the horizon, is available exclusively for club guests to unwind with drinks and refreshments. The 205 butler-serviced one, two and three bedroom apartments are set to be the most sought after residences in the city.

Accommodation
The lavish décor will combine Arabian influence with contemporary design and the very latest technology. Breathtaking panoramic views will add another dimension to the Grosvenor experience.
Each of the rooms and the apartments, some with private balconies, will have its own climate control. State-of-the-art installations will include satellite channels, CD/ DVD on demand, high speed internet access and direct dialing. For guests who demand an even higher level of luxury and service, the hotel boasts the Grosvenor Club over its top ten floors. The Grosvenor Club Lounge on the 44th Floor, with stunning views stretching to the horizon, is available exclusively for club guests to unwind with drinks and refreshments.
The 205 butler-serviced one, two and three bedroom apartments are set to be the most sought after residences in the city. Designed to meet the highest specifications, no expense will be spared, from the fixtures and fittings to state-of-the-art installations.

Dubai Holidays

Dubai Travel Holiday information
Burj Dubai with 700 meters
The Burj Dubai is a wolkenkratzer, which is built at present in Dubai (Arab emirates combined) by the project company Emaar Properties and which is to become highest buildings of the world. It is tried on the part of the investors to keep the height of the tower and the number secret of the floors if possible. According to Emaar Properties it will be high however at least 700 meters and 154 floors will possess. This height would make it the highest building of the world. Thus this record would go for the first time since long time to a free standing building. Estimations proceed from one height between 800 and 900 meters and about 175 floors. The tower is to become the center of a new town development area of Dubai, called Downtown Dubai. The investments of the Burj Dubai amount to approx. 20 billion US dollar.

Jumeirah Emirates

Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel Dubai
The Emirates Towers Redefine Corporate Business Combining Form With Function, Technology With Exquisite Luxury, and Elegance With Efficiency. Soaring 305 Metres High Above Dubai's Central Business District, Emirates Towers Comprises A Luxurious 400 Room Hotel, And An Unrivaled Commercial Tower With An Exclusive Connecting Two Story Shopping Complex The Boulevard. The Hotel Is Set In Over 17 Hectares Of Landscaped Gardens Complete With Ornamental Lakes And Waterfalls. Designed To Accommodate The Needs Of The Modern Executive On The Move, The Emirates Towers Hotel Is Destined To Become One That Is Maintained And Updated With Each Consecutive Visit. Some Features Include Extensive Conference And Banqueting Facilities Executive Club, Business Centre, 24 Hour Gymnasium, Swimming Pool And 15 Restaurants And Bars. Guests Can Relax In The Massage Sauna And Steam Rooms Or Enjoy The View Leading Down From The Main Lobby. With Capacity For Up To 800 Guests, The Pre-function Room And Ballroom Follow A Classical Design Featuring Decorative Columns Luxurious Carpets Honey Stained Burr Panelling And Crystal Chandeliers.

Hotel Amenities
- Fitness Center
- Fine Dining Nearby
- Executive Retreat
- Business Center
- Disabled Access
- Banquets & Meetings
- Fine Dining on Site
- High Speed Internet
- Pool, Outdoor

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