With the coronavirus exploding all over the world and two vacation plans falling through one after the other (in the same month nonetheless), I made the dramatic decision that 2020 will be the year of staycations. I then made a list of all the U.A.E properties that I wanted to check (in to and) out, and started off with Andaz The Palm- the newest, hippest, most eclectically decorated property on The Palm.

Andaz The Palm stays true to the brand ethos and weaves together the elements, sights, and nuances that define Dubai and are most iconic to it.  Designed in collaboration with local Emirati artists, every room boasts bespoke artwork and amenities that are as luxury as they are eco-friendly. As articulated on their website, ‘Capturing Dubai’s eclectic style and heritage, Andaz Dubai The Palm is a boutique hotel blending old-world charm with contemporary luxury.’

I checked in around noon on a Friday and headed straight to lunch at Cabana by the pool. My friend and I had a Nasi Lemak and a Ceasar Salad. Both were quite impressive for a poolside restaurant. I then headed to my suite and was thrilled by the size, layout, eclectic but thoughtful decor and most of all: the bathrooms.

My Room Type: Andaz Deluxe Suite, half-board.

Welcome treats: A box of chocolates and a personalized card with an adorable magnet to boot.

In-room amenities:

• Floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views
• Complimentary minibar with snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi
• Complimentary breakfast at The Locale (main restaurant)
• Hyatt Grand Bed with top mattress
• 50-inch flat-screen Smart Interactive TV
• Dual-line telephone with separate voice mail
• Multifunctional work desk
• Spacious bathroom with separate bathtub and rain shower
• Eco-friendly bath amenities
• Plush robes and slippers
• Hair dryer
• Alarm clock/radio
• In-room safety box
• Iron and ironing board
• Individual climate control
• Rollaway bed upon request
• Crib upon request

Living Area: Quite spacious, with a dining table big enough to seat 6. The couches could also easily accommodate the same number of people and I couldn’t help but think how great this suite would be for someone who’s in Dubai for a shot contract and wanted to stay for 2-3 months.The dining table was what I kept getting drawn to. the chairs were very comfortable and the table was of the perfect height. I could imagine playing board games for hours on it with my friends.

While most of the living area did feel like it had both modern and traditional Emirati touches, one wall seemed to look quite Victorian, with its Venetian blinds and slender desk. But then again, I suppose that also represents the influence of (European) expats on local culture?

Bathroom(s): There was a modern, double-sink ensuite bathroom, and a separate guest toilet outside. It was one of the nicest, most modern hotel bathrooms, and one that I’d love to replicate at home as it wasn’t excessively opulent like most hotel bathrooms are. The combination of black wrought iron with shades of grey n marble and hints of wood in a well-illuminated space made this an extremely welcoming bathroom.

Bedroom: Nicely detached from the living area with a glazed glass door. It was very sunny, with floor to ceiling windows. I loved the elaborate switch panel on the bedside that not only controlled all the lights but also drew the curtains at the touch of a button. The bed was not the softest, unfortunately.

Balcony: was small and awkwardly shaped, almost like a residential one, and the view did also feel like a residential one.

Views: were partially obstructed by the two residential buildings between the hotel and the beach, but I could definitely get a peek and there was something endearing about feeling like I was staying in a residential block instead of just a hotel.

Minibar: The tea was Damman By Paris, and the coffee machine Nespresso, both impressive details. The water was in disposable glass bottles, a very rare but welcome touch.

Dining Options: you can either eat at Cabana by the pool, at The Locale (the all day diner), or the soon-to-open Hanami for some Tokyo vibes. I particularly loved the shrimp and avocado hummus at The Locale. It was exceptionally smooth, loaded and unforgettable.

Pool: There are two pools at Andaz The Palm. One on the roof, by Cabana, the pool-side restaurant and close to the spa. There is a bigger one on the ground floor behind the hotel and closer to the beach

Spa: While the spa at Andaz The Palm didn’t have the most impressive facilities nor the most cosy or welcoming relaxation room, the massage was one of the best I’ve ever had.

Beach Access/Quality: There wasn’t exactly direct access to the beach and it was sort of shared with the residential buildings in the area. That took away from the resort feel one tends to seek from a property on The Palm.

Most memorable USPs at Andaz The Palm: The fact that the hotel is as plastic-free as possible. All the toiletries were in paper bags, the key cards were made of wood.

Overall cleanliness and service: Very clean, very hospitable.