The Westin Mina Seyahi
Opened in 1998, this hotel has not yet had time to show its age, although there have been several problems to iron out. The all-day dining restaurant, Blue Orange, had almost comically bad reviews when it opened, although it has improved since – slightly. The Spice Emporium restaurant came up with the novel idea of serving half the menu in glass jars – it’s remarkable how much foie gras looks like it should be in a science lab when it comes encased in glass – but now, rather more sensibly, sticks to standard Thai. Oeno, the wine and cheese bar, managed to get it right from the start, although service can be a little slow. The jewel in the foodie crown, however, is Bussola, an Italian joint that has actually been on the same site for years (it was previously reached by golf buggy from the neighbouring hotel Le Méridien). Upstairs is a standard pizza joint, permanently packed with expats desperate for some pork; downstairs is a more grown-up, expensive affair.
The hotel’s Heavenly spa is large and has some innovative treatments, which are changed regularly. It also has a lovely large whirlpool bath in the changing rooms, and a gym on the same level. The hotel opens directly out on a private beach, and a water sports centre offers kayaking, sailing and waterskiing.
If you’re not keen on the sand beneath your toes (and in your hair and handbag), visit the huge outdoor pool and landscaped grounds with shady palm trees and lots of loungers. Rooms overlook either the sea or the ‘city’ (read: the large road behind) and most have balconies. Décor is neutral verging on dull, but the rooms do have an abundance of large mirrors, which makes them feel very spacious. Because of the complex of meeting rooms and the ballroom, the hotel is popular for large events and conferences. But a word of warning, especially for the summer: the terrace suffers from overlooking an open sewage plant, which isn’t the best-ever view (or smell).
Address: Al Sufouh Road, Jumeirah Beach, PO Box 24883;
Phone: 04-399-4141; 04-399-9144;
Cost – AED 1,600
Location – Jumeirah
Number of rooms – 211 rooms, plus 29 suites
Room sq m – 34-79
Conference facilities – Yes
Pool/sauna – Yes
Beach access – Yes
Exercise facilities – Yes
Spa – Yes
Parking/valet – Yes
Licensed bar – Yes
On-site dining – Southeast Asian, Italian, International, steakhouse, cafe
Extra amenities – Wi-Fi, video on demand
Business amenities – Business centre
Shuttle buses – To Mall of the Emirates, Wafi Mall, Dubai Mall
Wheelchair facilities – Yes
