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Grand Millennium Hotel at Wahda (supplied) |
Sure enough, we were soon heading for the 19th floor via one of a bank of fast lifts. Room 1918 was a good size by today’s standards with a bathroom big enough for two boasting a separate bath and shower. Room colours were muted, and all the expected goodies were there – full-length mirror, safe, mini bar (no Diet Coke), tea, coffee and two bottles of comp water. An iron and board were a phone call away. As I said, we were on the 19th floor with sweeping views over a biscuit-coloured city that is obviously ever-evolving rapidly, judging by the number of cranes poking skyward. We enjoyed excellent Wi-Fi, a big desk (international power plugs would have been nice), a big flat TV, and the king bed was fine. The aircon was a little noisy along with the internet/TV controller box. No complaints about the lighting however - bedside readers get their own spot. So, how was the shopping? Here is the word from a self-confessed shopaholic: “Have to say I was deliciously surprised when I walked into the Al Wahda Mall.
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Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi [source] |
I was expecting the poor country cousin to Dubai – and it is – but my idea of how it was going to be and the reality didn’t match up. It was superb. We were looking for sneakers for Ian and found every major brand to choose from and good discount sales on some of the top ones, including the Jack Wolfskin trail walkers he settled on. I was looking for a flat pair of neutral-coloured brogues to replace the ones in my suitcase that I knew would be trashed during my upcoming Turkey travels. Unbelievably I found EXACTLY what I was looking for in magnificent soft leather in a designer brand that was down from $350 to AUD100. As always these fantastic UAE malls are places of great light, calm, cleanliness and easy to get around. Given that my hotel was virtually next door, it was perfect.
TO CONCLUDE: This is a very comfy, modern hotel that looks slightly tired but is ideally located near the main Abu Dhabi shopping mall. When we asked about a nearby restaurant, the European concierge did not have much local knowledge.
Ian McIntosh is Australia’s Senior Traveller.
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