Our first experience of One & Only The Palm , beautiful low-rise Moorish design and only around 90 rooms and a handful of standalone villas. We stayed in a garden view room on the ground floor, this entry level room would be a suite in some hotels, spacious and very comfortable .
The property has a serene and luxurious feel, understated elegance but not stuffy in any way. Whoever is in charge of staff training / recruitment has it nailed, they’re friendly but professional and you genuinely feel valued as a guest…there’s a fine line between fawning over a guest and delivering great service, they’ve got it just right here.
3 pools, - ( inc 1 adult only smaller spa pool) we preferred the 50m ‘ family’ pool, plenty of well spaced deep cushioned sun-beds ( yay!) and pool staff keep you well hydrated with complimentary water ( in a cool box) and ice-creams, try the coconut, delicious! Guest loos are scrupulously clean.
Construction- well, you’re in Dubai! No impact around the family pool, personally we kept away from the ( Safina) pool , too noisy for us but it seemed popular with some other guests.
Although you’re a taxi ride away from iconic sights, the hotel provides complimentary boat transfers across to its sister hotel- Royal Mirage; handy to give you more eating choices ( discount if on HB) . We tried Tagine Terrace there, service was great but food was just average, however do try the Indian restaurant called Tresind, the butter pepper garlic prawns cooked at the table were superb together with the fish patra, that was sublime, husband recommended the vegetarian thali . …bring your appetite as portions are generous.
Carpaccio starter at Zest restaurant back at O& O and saffron risotto with beef cheek were a couple of standout meals. You also have the Michelin starred French restaurant if a tasting menu(s) were a consideration. Not sure we would have HB again, little too restrictive but it suited this 5 day trip.
Breakfast is well thought out with a buffet of Arabic dips, salads, smoked salmon, cheeses , fresh fruits ( yummy coconut chia pudding) pastries / breads galore and an à la carte menu worth trying together with the delicious fresh smoothie concoctions, something for all tastes…
Must admit, we always compare hotels to our favourite- The Datai, it’s hard to compete and their food offerings are hard to beat…..would I recommend O & O The Palm, overall, yes….the staff are excellent, thank you for looking after us!