The much acclaimed Atlantis hotel in Dubai, turned out to be quite an anti-climax. Fortunately for me i got a 'comp' stay (some folks actually pay over $1000 a night for a basic room, while a majority of european travellers are getting it for under $400 a night at present) and hence it was still worth it.
A majestic entrance (check the site www.atlantis.com for best pix) alright, but the lobby is so over-the-top it's not funny. Goes with the Dubai theme i guess :) The rainbow hued blown-glass structure is the piece-de-resistance .. awesome for it's size and intricacy but frankly quite ghastly! The views from the lobby (infinite pools, palms, are spectacular and ditto from the room balcony. The Deluxe (basic) room was suprisingly average for a super-luxury hotel. Nice spacious loo with awesome rain-shower, decent balcony with deck chairs and the usual besides that. Also the new feature of providing a view to the tv and beyond from the bath-tub.
THe high-point of the hotel was the 'Lost Chamber' or huge (and i mean huge ..perhaps 100ft wide by 30ft high) aquarium with the most amazing fish - both exotic and large - darting around like they were on something unmentionable in dubai. Did not catch a pic of that, but one can spend a long time just watching .. no wonder the 2 suites with an aquarium view sell for a hefty premium .. might be a little unsettling while getting cozy though .. unless one is into that kind of stuff ;)
The world-famous Nobu restaurant is right next door. Had a superb meal there with Lee and Lauren from NYC. Service is slow, but that might be part of the plan to get you to eat and drink more :)
I did not venture into the Aqua-venture park .. which i reserved for a holiday with the kids. the ziggurat (100ft drop into shark-infested waters) was beckoning, but did not have the time.
Would i stay here again .. most likely not (unless i get another comp!) .. the Royal Mirage (one & Only) looks far more inviting and sophisticated ..
Worth a dekko .. see the Lost Chambers and dine in NObu .. or buy the $100 entrance to the water-park.
d
