OUTSTANDING HOTELS - Wild 'n' Free Diary - The best hotels all around the world https://wnfdiary.com/outstanding-hotels/ Luxury Travel Blog with Gorgeous Photography Mon, 01 Dec 2025 10:53:02 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wnfdiary.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/cropped-512x512-32x32.jpg OUTSTANDING HOTELS - Wild 'n' Free Diary - The best hotels all around the world https://wnfdiary.com/outstanding-hotels/ 32 32 Atlantida Hotel Spa Review https://wnfdiary.com/atlantida-hotel-spa-review/ Wed, 19 Feb 2025 13:36:15 +0000 https://wnfdiary.com/?p=14594 Wellness in Rogaska Slatina is one of the first things that come to mind when I hear the name of this place. Naturally, the one and only Donat, magnesium-rich healing mineral water is the NO.1 reason for that. However, the […]

The post Atlantida Hotel Spa Review appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Wellness in Rogaska Slatina is one of the first things that come to mind when I hear the name of this place. Naturally, the one and only Donat, magnesium-rich healing mineral water is the NO.1 reason for that. However, the Donat mineral water is just one part of the SPA experience in Atlantida Hotel Rogaska Slatina. Enjoy our Atlantida Hotel Spa review and see what the experience is truly like.

Atlantida Boutique Hotel
Atlantida Boutique Hotel has its own Wellness program, for all who are into healthy holidays.

Wellness & SPA Center Atlantida

Atlantida SPA center has plenty to offer with a wide range of activities. Some, like sauna oasis, pool and gym are complimentary to all hotel guests. For the rest you need to make an appointment and consider what is it that you want to focus on. Personalized spa treatments ensure the wellness and beauty rituals best suited to your needs.

Sauna in Atlantida Hotel
Sauna is for body, soul and heart. Especialy, when you can see nature straight out like here at Atlantida Hotel.

Massage Therapy

We started our relaxation and rejuvenation holidays with a classic whole-body massage. The massage therapist greeted us at the SPA reception table and took us straight to the massage room. There he gave us all the necessary details on how to get ready and waited for the signal before coming back in. We quickly got ready and wrapped ourselves from head to toe in a large waffle weave towel that could easily pass as a blanket. All cosied up we felt serene even before the massage started.

Massage at Atlantida Hotel
Massage here at Atlantida Hotel was enjoyable and still deep.

A tranquil atmosphere was a reality throughout the hour-long massage. Gentle music and pleasantly warm massage oil helped us to relax deeply. With our muscles relaxed, the massage therapist easily found the troubled spots, and we were happy he spent a few moments focusing on them. Slow and gentle movement amplified relaxation and time flew by.

Turkish Sauna
Turkish Sauna needs some TLC, but still serves its purpose.

To be honest the offer of different massages and techniques at the Atlantida Boutique Hotel is quite overwhelming. That is why it is best to go through your wishes and possible issues with a specialist. Only like that your health and beauty treatments will leave you feeling satisfied and fulfilled.

Beauty Treatments  

If you want body and facial treatments designed for lasting beauty, Atlantida SPA is the perfect choice. Needless to say, the list of the therapies is long and detailed so you’ll certainly find the best match for you. In a healthcare mecca such as Rogaska Slatina, you can expect state-of-the-art appliances and beauty products of the highest standards. Reasonably, they are using the number one Slovenia beauty brand – Afrodita Cosmetics.

Afrodita cosmetics
Afrodita Cosmetics is a leading Slovenian cosmetics company based in Rogaska Slatina

Halotherapy

Halotherapy must be the easiest way to boost your health. This is basically about spending time in a dry salt room where you are surrounded by salt. Even air includes tiny salt particles, which helps with countless lung problems. The science behind the salt rooms dates back to the 12th century when people visited salt caves for relief from respiratory conditions and skin problems. Salt is recognized for clearing mucus from the airways and easing respiratory allergies, among many other benefits. The drying effect of the salt also does wonders for the skin, especially for eczema, acne, and skin allergies. We experienced positive effects on the skin in less than one hour. We kid you not, but the stubborn rash Vivi was fighting for quite a while shrunk and was almost gone by the next day.

Halotherapy
Experiencing the soothing benefits of halotherapy in their salt room—where pure Adriatic salt helps cleanse the airways, promote relaxation, and enhance overall well-being

PEGAZ Mg

A pioneering program named PEGAZ Mg is based on magnesium-rich mineral water, which comes to the surface about a 5-minute walk from the Atlantida Hotel. It has been proven that there is 1040 mg of Magnesium in a liter of Donat. Yes, Donat is the name of the most magnesium-rich water in the world. And this mineral-rich water is the base of all 4 different PEGAZ programs. Each program is tailored to the specific needs of the individual.

Pegaz statue
Pegaz, the iconic symbol of Rogaska Slatina, represents the legend of the mythical winged horse whose hoofprint is said to have created the town’s famous mineral spring

If you are after an exclusive spa experience, you can’t go wrong by choosing PEGAZ Mg. The first step is about discovering the details your heart is set on. That is done with the help of specialists using different modern approaches. In general, programs are divided by gender, for couples, and health. Or as PEGAZ Mg Afrodita, Apolon, Medical and Couple.


Brief History of Donat Mineral Water

Donat water has many minerals, but magnesium stands out. As we said before, the 1040 mg of magnesium per liter is the world record. It is pumped up to the surface from between 280m and 600m where it has been for 8000 years. The use of this mineral-rich water was first recorded in the year 1141. That year archbishop Konrad wrote to Count Wolfrad about the beneficial effects the water had on people. A deeper look into the healing water also happened quite early, 1572 is the year of the first official analysis. About a century later, in 1680 the book Praxis Medicale was published and Donat Water had a special mention in it. Just 5 years later in 1685 the Donat mineral water got its first book written in Latin.

Rogaska Slatina History
Rogaska Slatina has been known for its mineral springs for over 400 years, with documented references dating back to the 16th century.

Traveling Donat Water

In 1721 Austrian emperor Karl V. allowed the utilization of the spring for Vienna’s pharmacy. With royal approval, bottled Donat Water started traveling around the Empire, but officially the water was headed straight to Vienna. Only 9 years after the official recognition of the extraordinary powers of the spring water the second spring appeared. It wasn’t till 1803 when the Empire of Austria approved the Styrian country government to organize all the natural springs in Rogaska Slatina. At that time mineral water kept showing up in many spots, but in fear of the main spring running dry, the officials plugged small springs with wooden sticks. It was the same year when Rogaska Slatina became a healthcare destination.

Donat Water
Donat Mg – the legendary natural mineral water from Rogaska Slatina, rich in magnesium and known for its digestive and wellness benefits.

Naming of the Mineral Water

Magnesium-rich water got a name after the nearby Donacka mountain, which is full of surprises. So much so that a few books were dedicated to the three-peaked mountain. Surely, the best way to meet the mountain is in person and check out the unparalleled old-growth beech forest on your adventure. We also can’t stay silent about the prehistoric pottery and the powerful energy of the mountain.

Rogaska Slatina
Rogaska Slatina is welness osais in Slovenia.

The Donat Legend

A long, long time ago, the mythological horse Pegaz traveled through what we now know as Slovenian land and got excited about its beauty. That is why he wanted to take a closer look and because of the low flight, he hit the mountain near Rogaska Slatina with a hoof. The hit was so severe that Earth’s crust moved. Exactly these changes to Earth’s crust made it possible for the mineral water to reach the surface.


Donat Healthcare Therapy

Different thermal spa treatments for the Rogaska Slatina spa experience are based on the Donat water. High magnesium content makes it the perfect stress relief agent that boosts overall health as a bonus. The Donat water has many benefits, not just on digestion but also on the liver, cardiovascular health, and stomach. Above all, it is a wonderful detox agent. To get the most out of the detox and wellness programs it is best to consume Donat mineral water as well. The drinking therapy should last up to 14 days with drinking intervals before every meal. However, it is important not to overdo it and Atlantida Hotel Rogaska Slatina and Medical Center Rogaska provided us with all the necessary information.

Hall of mineral Water in Rogaska Slatina
The medical center has a mineral water hall, where you can try out mineral water directly.

For example, a generally healthy person should drink 3 dl of warm Donat water half an hour before breakfast. Second intake is advised before lunch with 1,5 dl of warm and 1,5 dl of cold Donat water. The last glass of the day should be just cold Donat water again half an hour before dinner. However, it is best to see a specialist before starting the therapy so you truly get what your body needs.


You Might Also Like


Where is Donat?

The Pivnica drinking hall where you can get Donat water is inside the Medical Center Rogaska. Right under the Pivnica drinking hall is the spring, making it directly connected to the healing mineral spring water known as Donat mineral water. When you buy a drinking ticket you’ll also get your drinking glass as well. Of course, once you are inside the hall you can have more than the recommended dose. But you must own that decision and if you plan on going nuts with Donat, please know the location of the toilet. This healing water is well known to boost digestion and you wouldn’t be the first one to underestimate its powers.

Donat MG
Donat MG, straight from the source. Boy, how different it is from the bottled one. Probably plastic bottles ruin everything!

Medical Center Rogaska

It is safe to say that the Medical Center Rogaska is the biggest, oldest, and only healthcare center that houses magnesium-rich mineral water. In addition to that they are focused on preventing, healing, and rehabilitating gastroenterological diseases and metabolic issues. For sure the Medical Center isn’t focused just on that, after all, they have 50 doctors specialized in 15 different areas. No wonder the list of their services is very long and completed with cutting-edge medical devices. Surely, those who want to have a holistic comprehensive treatment must visit Rogaska Slatina.

Rogaska medical Center
Drinking hall at Rogaska Medical Center, where you can buy your glass and drink daily – Subscription if you want.

Final Thought

Nature is full of surprises and offers many solutions to those willing to reconnect to Mother Earth. Indeed, Rogaska Slatina feels like a fairytale or a dream place, because it is almost unbelievable that such a magical place exists. Without a doubt, it is quite rare that people keep an open mind and at the same time use science to improve health. Even if your health isn’t on the last legs, we are sure that holidays for the body and the soul are a way to move forward. And where else to start than at the Atlantida Boutique Hotel, just a few minutes walk from the Medical Center Rogaska? I hope you liked our Atlantida Hotel Spa review.

Relax
Whether you’re looking for relaxation or rejuvenation, this Atlantida Hotel Spa review will guide you through all the highlights of their exceptional wellness offerings.

Atlantida Hotel Spa Review Card

  • 8.5/10
    ATMOSPHERE – 8.5/10
  • 9.8/10
    OFFER – 9.8/10
  • 9.0/10
    MASSAGE – 9.0/10
  • 8.7/10
    RELAXATION ROOM – 8.7/10
  • 9.5/10
    VALUE – 9.5/10
9.1/10

The post Atlantida Hotel Spa Review appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Atlantida Boutique Hotel Review https://wnfdiary.com/atlantida-boutique-hotel-review/ Fri, 10 Jan 2025 15:13:34 +0000 https://wnfdiary.com/?p=14550 One of the cleanest countries in the world has an abundance of natural treasures unique to its location. We are thrilled to share our experience at the Atlantida Boutique Hotel, which combined a romantic getaway in Slovenia with vitality care. […]

The post Atlantida Boutique Hotel Review appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
One of the cleanest countries in the world has an abundance of natural treasures unique to its location. We are thrilled to share our experience at the Atlantida Boutique Hotel, which combined a romantic getaway in Slovenia with vitality care. Rogaska Slatina offers numerous opportunities for your health, but the real gem is the mineral spring water with the most magnesium content in the world. Luckily you can enjoy it daily during your vacation in Rogaska Slatina. Indeed, there are so many things to do in Rogaska Slatina, so please enjoy things that matter to you. As always, we are here to help you find the most pleasant accommodations. Please continue our Atlantida Boutique Hotel Review and see what it offers.

Atlantida Boutique Hotel
Atlantida Boutique Hotel at night

About Atlantida Boutique Hotel

Five-star Atlantida hotel is all about feeling good in your skin. This luxury hotel in Rogaska Slatina connects indulgence and healthcare. We loved the open design that connects the stylish indoors with the natural world on the other side of the glass wall. Attention to the pristine environment can also be found in the Atlantida SPA center, which practices the PEGAZ-Mg method. The PEGAZ-Mg method is based on local mineral-rich water, so it is only fair to say you can’t get it anywhere else in the world.

Piano in hotel
The piano in a hotel gives you that warm feel, even if no one is playing it.
Nature in Europe
When your view from the hotel room is like this, you know you will recharge your energy.

Atlantida Boutique Hotel Wellness & SPA Center

Doors to the pool and sauna, Turkish and Finnish sauna, are open to all guests of the Atlantida Boutique hotel. However, those who are after something special and unique can get that as well. On offer are four different PEGAZ-Mg programs that are tailor-made for every individual. The personalization process for the desired program is made with the help of medical experts and is based on modern methods. In addition to that, you can enjoy body massage or face care with high-quality cosmetic products by Afrodita Professional. By the way, Afrodita Cosmetics is a local company, established in 1970 and proud owner of the ISO 22716 certificate. Let’s not forget to mention the Salt Room, which is the perfect contribution to overall health. Here is our Atlantida Hotel Spa Review if you are interested more in wellness.

Hotel Atlantida Swiming Pool
The swimming pool is clean and quiet here at Atlantida Hotel.

Salt Room

We must start with the personal testimony of the positive effect the salt room had on Vivi’s skin. It is quite unbelievable how only 40 minutes in the salt room improved the stubborn rash by up to 70%. No wonder it is so good for the skin because the salt aerosol strongly influences the lymphatic system which helps to remove toxins and other impurities from the body. That is not all, salt therapy strengthens the immune system, and works wonders on the respiratory system, to say the least.

The salt room is something new we have tried.

Beauty Treatments

If you want to pay extra attention to your looks, you can explore treatments that include advanced cosmetic devices. The list of treatments is long so it is best to get in touch with your needs and talk to the kind staff at the SPA center to find the best match for you. Besides the overall body care, you can also choose facial care, Mani/Pedi, or depilation.

Relax and recharge is the mantra here.

PEGAZ-Mg Programs

All four different Pegaz-Mg Programs are based on the mineral-rich healing spring water that is local to the Rogaska Slatina. A holistic approach to every program ensures maximum exposure to the world’s richest magnesium water called Donat. The luxury SPA Hotel Slovenia considered the most sought-after opportunity for guests and ended with programs for a woman, a man, a couple, and a detox-oriented treatment. Each program includes doctors’ consultations for personalized treatments. Programs are advised to last at least a week or 10 nights for the maximum effect.

Donat water
Donat mineral water in the lobby.

A Few Words About Donat Mineral Water

Donat mineral spring water is pumped from a depth of 260 m to 600 m below the surface. Every single liter contains 1040 mg of magnesium in it, plus other elements that also matter. A whole lot of other minerals, if we are honest. As already stated Donat mineral-rich water has a long history of health miracles and was analyzed for the first time in 1572. However, the local voices praised the miracle water much earlier and the first mention dates back to 1141. Recently, scientists measured the average age of spring water to be about 8000 years old.

Donat Water
Complimentary Donat water in your room, to start your day.

Medical Center Rogaska

Just a 3-minute walk from the Atlantida hotel is the Medical Center Rogaska. We can say that over 400 years of tradition make the Medical Center Rogaska the heart of the Slovenian wellness hub. Rogaska Slatina wellness vacation gets only better when you know that under one roof, about 50 doctors specialize in 15 different medical areas. In addition to the unique healing resources, they also use modern medical equipment to ensure the optimal treatment best suited to the individual. Medical Center Rogaska is also home to the mineral-rich Donat where you get a recommended daily dose straight from the source.

Hall of mineral Water in Rogaska Slatina
The medical center has a mineral water hall, where you can try out mineral water directly.

Atlantida Boutique Hotel Facilities and Amenities

Atlantida Boutique Hotel review situated in Rogaska Slatina, wouldn’t be complete without the mention of the comforts you can enjoy during your stay. Let’s start with Atlantida’s spacious lobby hall that is a café, reception area, and sitting room all in one. From the lobby, it is easy to access the dining room where you’ll get delicious and healthy breakfast or dinner. Above it, is a Atlantida Bar that extends into the ala cart restaurant. In case you want to use the calories feel free to enjoy well-equipped fitness or have fun at the billiard table.

Gym at Atlantida Hotel
The gym is functional and clean.
Hotel shop
In the lobby, you can find a wine shop with many treats from Slovenia and even Italy.
art in hotel
Art pieces are always welcome in hotels. However, one can also buy them, if they like.

You Might Also Like


Our Room

The modern interior design feels comfortable and draws a sense of buoyancy to the spacious design. For extra light exposure, one can always use the balcony that comes with every room. It was a joy to watch birds in their natural environment from the roofed-up balcony. An unspoiled view of the forest is another bonus of the hotel room. We also loved the bathroom with all the advantages of a five-star hotel luxury.

Room at Hotel Atlantida
Room at Atlantida Boutique Hotel is tidy, airy and warm.
Room at Hotel Atlantida
You can choose your pillow. Just call reception and make arrangements for your favorite type.
Hotel bathroom
The bathroom is not shabby, but certainly clean.

Food and Beverage

Buffet breakfast in the dining room presented everything our hungry bellies were after. First, we passed the well-stocked healthy corner with different cereals and ready-to-eat fresh fruit. At the end of the healthy corner, we found an array of freshly baked bread, croissants, and other sweet treats, including baked fruit.

Hotel Atlantida breakfast.
Home-made jams to start your day.
Organic breakfast
We were happy to see organic and healthy options here at Atlantida Boutique Hotel

Opposite the health station, we were happy to find an array of cold cuts with numerous condiments and pickles. Next, we focused on the cheese section, which consisted of some smoked, soft, and young cheese. Most of all we were happy to see the buckwheat with milk and buckwheat “struklji” or dumpling rolls. All the kudos go for the organic offer and free flow of sparkling wine.

Potica
“Potica” is a traditional Slovenian dessert. In principle, it is baked rolled dough with walnut and raisin filling.
Smoked Duck Breasts
However, we weren’t impressed by their dinner and dessert selection at the bar.

Final Thought

With so much to do in Rogaska Slatina, it is important to get a good night’s sleep and stay hydrated. Luckily in Slovenia, all tap water is safe to drink so spare the plastic water. We can say we certainly had a good time at the Atlantida Hotel. Feeling good started with a warm welcome and this continued throughout our stay. No matter what our questions were, we always got a helpful response. All we can say now is, that we warmly recommend you to choose the Atlantida Boutique Hotel whenever you plan to visit Rogaska Slatina.

Anin Dvor
This is Anin Dvor, situated only a few meters from the hotel. You can see the history of Rogaška Slatina and get all the info about this health-oriented place.

Atlantida Boutique Hotel Review Card

  • 9/10
    ATMOSPHERE – 9/10
  • 9.2/10
    CLEANLINESS – 9.2/10
  • 8.7/10
    ROOM – 8.7/10
  • 8.5/10
    FACILITIES AND AMENITIES – 8.5/10
  • 8.3/10
    FOOD AND BEVERAGE – 8.3/10
  • 9.7/10
    SERVICE – 9.7/10
  • 9/10
    VALUE – 9/10
8.9/10

Price and Location

Room with breakfast, dinner and unlimited use of the indoor pool and sauna will set you up for about 380 USD. Here is a link to the location for easier navigation.

The post Atlantida Boutique Hotel Review appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Why Choose Sofitel Millesime Club When Booking a Room? https://wnfdiary.com/why-choosing-sofitel-millesime-club-when-booking-a-room/ Sat, 27 May 2023 12:57:19 +0000 https://wnfdiary.com/?p=14288 Traveling in the style of luxury has become a norm among high-end travelers. However, not all luxury hotel experiences are created equal, and that’s why choosing the right hotel is crucial to make your trip unforgettable. Some hotels do offer […]

The post Why Choose Sofitel Millesime Club When Booking a Room? appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Traveling in the style of luxury has become a norm among high-end travelers. However, not all luxury hotel experiences are created equal, and that’s why choosing the right hotel is crucial to make your trip unforgettable. Some hotels do offer access to the executive club. In light of that, Sofitel Millesime Club is one of the most luxurious hospitality options available for any elite traveler. In this blog post, we’ll go over why we recommend choosing Sofitel Millesime Club when booking. We see it as a must for anyone looking to have a remarkable stay.

Sofitel Siem Reap Club Millesime
We advise you to join Club Millesime and get pampered throughout your stay.

Exclusive Experience

Sofitel Millesime Club offers an exclusive experience tailored to your individual needs. This experience involves luxurious amenities, personalized service, and full attention to detail. When you book a room, you’ll have access to exclusive lounges, private check-in, and 24-hour butler service, ensuring that your stay is as comfortable as possible. If you ask us, the Sofitel Millesime Club is where you can enjoy a luxury stay like no other.

Millesime Club Sofitel
Nicely presented snacks
Millésime Club
Exclusive Millésime Club at Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara.

Boutique Ambiance

It’s worth noting that Sofitel Millesime Club’s boutique ambiance gives it an advantage over other hotels. Firstly there’s an intimate atmosphere, which makes your stay more personalized and unique. Secondly, the hotel’s decor features a mix of traditional French architecture with a modern twist, ensuring your surroundings are as calming as they are luxurious.

Angkor Phokeethra Millesime Club Sofitel
Millesime Club at Angkor Phokeethra Sofitel, Cambodia looks amazong.

Fine Dining

Good food is an integral part of a luxurious experience, and you’ll find precisely that at the Sofitel Millesime Club. The hotel has multiple dining options to choose from. Not just different cuisines like French, Asian, and International cuisine but healthy options as well. The hotel’s restaurants are famous for using only the finest ingredients and a commitment to delivering fresh, sophisticated meals. Surely you’ll find great choices to satisfy your every culinary craving. After all a lot of thought and effort goes into menu making.

Millesime Club Sofitel
Having sweet relief could be important.
Afternoon tea
Tempting, isn’t it?

Access to Special Events and Amenities

When booking a room at the Sofitel Millesime Club, you’ll have exclusive access to a range of events. These events range from art exhibitions to private wine and cheese tastings, providing entertainment that elevates your stay. Sofitel Hotel offers personalized cultural experiences for guests, which is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture. Well, on top of that, you might get also free Wi-Fi access at Millesime Club.

Asian sweets
Sometimes you might discover something new to try at executive clubs.

Convenient Location

Another plus is the Sofitel Millesime Club’s convenient location. Usually, the hotel is situated in a prime location right in the center of the city, making it easy to access the area’s most popular attractions. You can also take advantage of hotel car service and be chauffeured to nearby locations.

cookie in coffee
A dip in peace is all we need.

Final Thought 

We believe that Sofitel Millesime Club is a luxurious, boutique hotel experience that’s worth partaking in. Seriously, who doesn’t like to have tailored proposals to meet personal needs? We certainly do, and that is why we believe that every high-end traveler should choose Sofitel Millesime Club when booking a room.

sweets on a tray
Petite desserts for petite pleasures.

The post Why Choose Sofitel Millesime Club When Booking a Room? appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Majestic Saigon Hotel Review https://wnfdiary.com/majestic-saigon-hotel-review/ Wed, 07 Dec 2022 16:28:52 +0000 https://wnfdiary.com/?p=14033 Hello and welcome back to all travel blog enthusiasts. There is a fat chance you will be traveling to Vietnam where Ho Chi Minh City is simply a must. Anyone can stop for a moment and compare old and new, […]

The post Majestic Saigon Hotel Review appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Hello and welcome back to all travel blog enthusiasts. There is a fat chance you will be traveling to Vietnam where Ho Chi Minh City is simply a must. Anyone can stop for a moment and compare old and new, peaceful and hectic, adventurous and familiar… list is long and can include all possible matters. Today we are taking a closer look at the historic luxury Hotel Majestic Saigon to reveal a variety of collected secrets since it opened its doors in 1925. Naturally, in this Majestic Saigon hotel review you’ll also get all the information you need for your upcoming visit.

Hotel Majestic Saigon
Only the road stands in a way of the Saigon river and Hotel Majestic Saigon.

About Hotel Majestic Saigon

About 100 years ago, Mr. Hui Bon Hoa, the richest Chinese businessman initiated the start of Hotel Majestic. Uncle Hoa picked the location very wisely, right at the Saigon River. Mr. Hoa was in charge of Majestic Hotel Saigon only for 23 years. After that, the Hotel Majestic Saigon fell into French hands and stayed under their management for over 45 years. The hotel changed hands in its long history only a few times and closed its doors merely for renovations in august of 1994.

Store lobby at Hotel Majestic Saigon
The glistening lobby houses a romantic lounge and a store beside the check-in counter.

Handover

 Once the Vietnam war finished in 1973, the hotel was handed from the French to Saigon Authority. Soon after the transition the new name Hoan-My or “Perfection” came to life and with it a new purpose – the hotel became a government guest house. A few decades later the Hotel Majestic Saigon is the first 5-star hotel in Saigon managed by state-owned Saigon Tourist.

antique telephone
Vintage perfection

Big Restoration

In 1994 it was time for the long-awaited improvements and restorations that cost approximately 5.5 million USD. Part of the efforts was to keep the French Colonial and classical French Riviera styles. Once the hotel reopened a year later it got a brand new swimming pool, gym, sauna, and business center. The next big extension happened in 2003 with the 8-story Saigon Wing adding a SPA venue, restaurant, and bar, plus adding 54 guestrooms to the total of 175 rooms.

art deco building in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh
The outer surface of French Colonial architecture is truly magnificent.
entrance at Hotel Majestic Saigon
Shine bright like a diamond in the majestic colors

Ambiance

Majestic Saigon surely has its colonial charm but there are some failures. Some ornaments don’t truly fit into the scene and from time to time the design is sloppy. For instance, there is a hallway with blue lights and I am not convinced it is proper for a historical hotel like Majestic. The exterior is in need of some repairs and messy corners should be tidied. Notably, there are also huge billboards on one side of the hotel, which can’t be expressed as 5-stars property.

Majestic Ho Chi Minh
Is the 5-star hotel the right address for billboards?
Majestic Vietnam Hallway
We doubt that blue light is anyone’s friend.

Check-In

One would expect impeccable check-in from a hotel with that long tradition, but that wasn’t the case. To be honest, this is the first 5-star hotel where no one helped us with our luggage. We did check in at the counter and continued to our room on our own. However, once we entered our Hotel Majestic Saigon hotel room, we were happy to see a plate of fresh tropical fruit as a welcome gift.

Majestic Hotel Saigon
The delicious greeting made us happy in an instant.

Our Room

We stayed in the Colonial Suite which impressed us with its space and adequate layout. Classical Colonial French style makes this spaciousness warm and beguiling. A dark shiny wooden floor is a must in a setting like this, and the extra bonus is its herringbone formation. This kind of flooring makes spaces bigger which might add to this spaciousness feel. However, the furnishing is nice and only the downvote might go for the bathroom. Somehow the design doesn’t work luxurious and even a huge bath can’t save it.

Retro couch
Although not eye candy, this sofa surely was comfortable when we came back tired.
Ho Chi Minh five star hotel
We slept well in this king-size bed.
Hotel Majestic Saigon room
No doubt, our room certainly was clean and tidy.
Marble Bathroom
Marble surely is ageless and does the job done, however, this marvelous stone can do more

Facilities and Amenities

If you follow the “work hard play hard” rules, you’ll find some privacy and secretarial services in the Business Center, located in the Lobby Hall. Later you can go up to the first floor of the Hotel Majestic Saigon to the courtyard swimming pool with Merry Pool Bar in its proximity. Not far from it are the Spa and well-equipped Fitness. Our least favorite part of the Hotel Majestic Saigon is the casino, M Club. However, if you feel golden, try your luck, why not.

courtyard pool
In the heart of the Majestic Hotel Saigon is the swimming pool.

When it comes to amenities, I haven’t missed anything. They can provide you with all you need. There are even organized tours for the adventurous ones.

Antique Gold Bath Shower Mixer Tap
Can we agree that this is the best part of the bathroom?

Food and Beverage

Dining a breakfast at the Breeze Sky Bar exceeded our high expectations. Admittingly, we love al fresco dining, especially when the day presents a sunny breeze and lovely views. There is a special feeling when you are enjoying your first meal and the city is already crazy. And believe me, Saigon gets crazy! With everything spot on, we expected nothing less from the food and indeed it was very delicious and versatile.

Majestic Saigon breakfast buffet
All-you-can-eat breakfast buffet with an emphasis on delicious local Vietnamese and French cuisine.

The breakfast option is vast. One can enjoy from all the classics to Pho Ga aka chicken soup. Usually, hotels can go wrong with legendary meals like Pho, but this one was quite good. The fruit selection can be complimented as well. Especially when the fruit is in a season like it was when we visited Saigon.

Best breakfast in Saigon
A breakfast for champions!

Besides breakfast, one can enjoy all-day alfresco dining at the Breeze Sky Bar, or you can have some western inspired food at the Serenade restaurant. However, the menu didn’t convince us and luckily Saigon got us covered.

Breakfast at the Breeze Sky Bar
The hefty selection of succulent tropical fruit was our favorite part of breakfast.

For those looking for a peaceful tea time with a book, we recommend the Catinat Lounge. It is easy to find, as it is part of the lobby. This location makes it perfect for a get together from early morning to late evening. If you are after a more lively experience, we encourage you to head up to the passable rooftop M.Bar. Besides evening drinks and music, one can enjoy the sunset at the edge of a large terrace. Don’t expect artisanal cocktails but the vibe is there.

Breakfast dessert
Sponge cake for breakfast is a great idea.

Final Thought

Majestic Saigon Hotel Review is like a Deja Vu from Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel. A great location, amazing background, lovely historical buildings, tradition, and a lack of sophistication. A 5-star hotel shouldn’t have shortcomings as we found. Back in the early days when the hotel was born, I bet there were better hospitality practices than there are today. However, this is nothing that it couldn’t be restored. Vietnam will learn about high-end tourism and hotels like this will hopefully flourish again.

The room is nice though, and you will be a part of history just by staying there. If you add quite a low room price to that, you get a decent stay. I hope one day this hotel will be on the level of Majestic Kuala Lumpur and leave memorable impressions.

Majestic Vietnam
Less than ideal view of the courtyard pool

Majestic Saigon Hotel Review Card

  • 7/10
    ATMOSPHERE – 7/10
  • 9.3/10
    CLEANLINESS – 9.3/10
  • 8.2/10
    ROOM – 8.2/10
  • 7/10
    FACILITIES AND AMENITIES – 7/10
  • 8.3/10
    FOOD AND BEVERAGE – 8.3/10
  • 7.5/10
    SERVICE – 7.5/10
  • 8.3/10
    VALUE – 8.3/10
7.9/10

Price and Location

Colonial Suite like the one we stayed in will cost you about 150 USD with the breakfast which isn’t a lot for a 5-star hotel. Here is a link to the location for all who would like to stay there.

The post Majestic Saigon Hotel Review appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel Review: Da Lats Finnest? https://wnfdiary.com/dalat-palace-heritage-hotel-review-da-lats-finnest/ Tue, 12 Apr 2022 11:40:24 +0000 https://wnfdiary.com/?p=13790 Hello to all travelers searching for the best in the hospitality business. Vietnam is attracting visitors with its unique characteristics and five-star heritage hotels provide different perspectives. After all, the colonial era left a lot of influence which is still […]

The post Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel Review: Da Lats Finnest? appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Hello to all travelers searching for the best in the hospitality business. Vietnam is attracting visitors with its unique characteristics and five-star heritage hotels provide different perspectives. After all, the colonial era left a lot of influence which is still evident today. The biggest question for heritage hotels is whether they make the most of this unique legacy and deliver it to demanding guests. This time we visited Dalat Palace Heritage hotel which was established in the 1920s. Now let’s check if the title “The best 5-star hotel in Da Lat” is suitable for this hotel in our Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel Review.

Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel
Welcome to our Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel Review

Ambiance

Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel is situated near Xuan Huong Lake and it starts with the amazing park. To be honest, we are always looking for some green areas in luxury hotels. Honestly, this park is astonishing and we can call the whole property future-proof. Greenery, trees, flowers, and wildlife. Birds here around didn’t let us use a drone, and we felt blessed with so much diverse life around us. Just like at Metropole Hanoi Hotel Review, an old classic car is at the entrance point. Then there is this beautiful Edwardian and Art Deco-styled hotel with neat lines. Once the perfect first impression settled in we couldn’t wait to see the inside.

Dalat Palace Hotel
The hotel’s park is one of the most beautiful we have seen.
Dalat Palace lobby
Bird’s eye view of the Dalat Palace Hotel lobby.
vintage screen wall light
Ambient lights affect in the most pleasant ways.

Check-In

The check-in at Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel is quick, pleasant, and warm. The bellboy was nice and the concierge gave us a lot of information about the place and what to see around Da Lat. Truly the grand heritage feeling from the outside continues to be present everywhere.

Lobby at Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel
Grand lobby with a fireplace at the back and a splendid flower arrangement in the front.
wooden bed ornament
Once special, always special.

Our Room

Dalat Palace has 43 rooms in elegant colonial style, and each offers quite a view, no matter whether is the Xuan Huong lake or Dalat Cathedral. We stayed in the luxury exclusive room which has 44 square meters filled with authentic colonial charm. Dark wooden floors, fireplace, wonderful ornaments, art pieces, vintage metal fan, and even a clawfoot bathtub.

Hotel Room Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel
A room fit for a princess.
Hotel room layout
Rainy evenings in Da Lat can be quite cold hence the fireplace in a hotel room is a winner.
Table night light with shade
Regal light by the bed

There is nothing more we could wish for and the ambiance of the room is superb. Especially, when you open a window and hear all those birds chirping in the park. Just like many heritage hotels, the Dalat palace rooms need some smaller fixes. But it is important to make them right so this heritage feel is still present.

Dalat Palace Bathroom
Cozy bathroom with organic toiletries infused with rosemary and mint.
Antique copper bathroom faucet
Patina it is!
Da Lat Palace lake view
The view from the rooms is amazing.

Cleanliness

The hotel itself is clean and we didn’t find any bigger messy indicators. The bigger problem is when it comes to furniture preservation. A lot of work is needed to fix everything. However, all the kudos goes to gardeners as well. To maintain a park of this size is no joke at all.

Hotel bathroom
Peachy hues for a peachy stay.
Fireplace with iron screen
During our time we didn’t need additional heating, but we loved the idea of it.

Facilities

Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel has everything and more. We are just wondering if we ever came across so many facilities. With that being said we must express the rule of thumb “less is more”. Sadly, most of these facilities are screaming for renovation and repurposing. We must mention the library, which is a great common space and many 5-star hotels lack a place like this. Then there is Le Rabelais Restaurant, a magnificent place where breakfast and high tea are also served. Dedicated rooms for smaller groups, terrace to enjoy the view, Cigar Lounge, and Dalat Palace Club. 

leather Chesterfield seat
Chesterfield sofa fits in style and comfort.
Terrace at Dalat palace hotel
Why not cherish the fresh air at the terrace for breakfast?

All the places are great except, the club. This thing simply doesn’t belong here. The ambiance is a fail, and we haven’t seen much activity there during our stay. Frankly, it is quite sad, especially when you know this was a wine cellar back in the days. 

libraby
A library is a lovely place and a great example of a common space at a hotel.
Best of Da Lat
Walking around Dalat Palace hotel is like being in a fairytale.

However, in this underground area, there are other failed facilities, like karaoke rooms. We know we are in Asia and karaoke is a huge thing here, but what in the world. Another failed facility is the children’s room, but it can be transformed with some minor corrections.

heritage
Vintage is the right place at a heritage hotel.
gymn
The gym is small but functional. The only thing we were missing was a workout bench.

Nevertheless, there is a spa that looked small and the offer wasn’t really convincing, which is a shame. A place like Da Lat could be more about spa and wellbeing. There is also a small functional gym. We were only missing a bench, so the weights would make sense. 

Da Lat Karaoke room
Are karaoke rooms really necessary in a five-star heritage hotel?
Dalat Palace Hotel
The same goes for this room.

Dalat Palace has also a convention room and other smaller meeting rooms in the new building. This “new wing” is designed great and it gets along with the main building.

New Dalat Palace Hotel
The new wing of the Dalat Palace is the perfect fit for the original building Dalat Palace Hotel.
Da Lat Palace Hotel
The heritage hotel is just the perfect place for valuable antiques.

Amenities

We had everything and more. There is this great TV box with many movies, shows, and music. Minibar was stacked and the tea and coffee were offered in the room as well. Turndown service left us a note with a joke and a weather report for the next day. However, we missed additional water by the bed, but we got a laugh from the joke.

Old telephone
The vintage telephone in the room looks great and is a useful tool.
Wine in Da Lat
Although there are vineyards in Da Lat this isn’t a proper way to represent them.

Food at Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel

Jesus Christ, this was the worst food we have ever had in a 5-star hotel. Food goes the same as the Dalat Palace High Tea Review. Didn’t look so good and tasted even worse. When you see a menu with photos you know this is gonna be a bad ride. 

pho
Something warm for breakfast sounds good and the pho soup was quite nice.

Breakfast

How about breakfast? Most of the savory food was tasty, especially those from the live stations. We got some decent Pho and sauteed vegetables. Regardless, there were some sweets from the high tea for which we already knew they are bad. Luckily, there were preprepared croissants and freshly made waffles with condiments. Ou, we shouldn’t forget the fresh fruits and juices as well, which were delicious.

Breakfast at Dalat Palace Hotel
The gourmet experience at Dalat Palace was an empty promise for us.
five star hotel Da Lat
Breakfast at Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel will fill you up, but it isn’t to die for.

When it comes to the service there is a problem. No one accompanied us to the table or serve us coffee or tea. The staff was too loose, talking loud and eating on the site. There is almost no bigger flaw than seeing a waiter or chef eating on his duty. Table clothes weren’t aligned and much more.

phyllo pastry
Freshly baked pastry and fresh fruit was our preferred choice for breakfast.
Belgian waffles
Fresh Belgian waffles with condiments

Bad service surprised me, especially when we got to know some students from College Tourism Dalat. People from all over the country are here in training to be the highest level of hospitality workers. And when we asked students what is their dream work, almost everyone told us about their dream of working at Dalat Palace. So this is the cherry-pick? Big Hotel chains know how to deal with this problem. Training is held in the hotels under the control of senior staff, coming from all over the world.

Noodle station in hotel
The staff is not professional as one would expect at a 5-star hotel.
Five star mistake to avoid
An ornamental sweet corner is not even close to the eye candy.

Conclusion

Exceptional heritage place with a lot of untapped potentials. As we always say, it is not just about location, heritage, and design. People are making hospitality, and Dalat Palace Hotel clearly lacks some good management. Running a hotel is a huge deal and you need a lot of good human resources. With a good management team, a place like Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel would easily be one of the best hotels in South East Asia. Start with the website, offer and find your red line. Guests will come to enjoy a unique experience that should be kept in lasting memory. 

vintage car dalat palace hotel
A vintage car is a part of Dalat Palace
Da Lat Palace hotel
New and old can coexist in style.

Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel Review Card

  • 9.7/10
    ATMOSPHERE – 9.7/10
  • 9.3/10
    CLEANLINESS – 9.3/10
  • 9.1/10
    ROOM – 9.1/10
  • 7/10
    FACILITIES AND AMENITIES – 7/10
  • 5/10
    FOOD AND BEVERAGE – 5/10
  • 8/10
    SERVICE – 8/10
  • 7/10
    VALUE – 7/10
7.8/10

Price and Location

A room like ours will cost you about 200 USD per day, and we think this is not a good deal for a quality like here. We truly hope there will be some improvements and they will use the potential. Here is the link to the location for easier navigation.

The post Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel Review: Da Lats Finnest? appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Hotel Papadopoli Venezia Review https://wnfdiary.com/hotel-papadopoli-venezia-review/ Fri, 23 Jul 2021 20:29:04 +0000 https://wnfdiary.com/?p=13187 Ahhh, yes, Venice, you old baroque lady showing us all the authenticity, from the golden extravagance to the great stink. What can be more romantic than walking through the canals filled with history and heritage? Every step is hiding its […]

The post Hotel Papadopoli Venezia Review appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Ahhh, yes, Venice, you old baroque lady showing us all the authenticity, from the golden extravagance to the great stink. What can be more romantic than walking through the canals filled with history and heritage? Every step is hiding its charm, and if you would like to take that with you into the hotel, we recommend Hotel Papadopoli Venezia. This Mgallery hotel is all about Renaissance, and it comes cheap. Please continue reading our Hotel Papadopoli Venezia Review, and see what is hiding in this charming hotel. 

Venetian traditional dress
At Hotel Papadopoli is all about Venice.

Ambiance

Before we get to the ambiance of the hotel, let me tell you a bit about the location. Hotel Papadopoli is located just at the edge of the Venice canals and is close to all main transportation stops. If you came by train, bus, or boat, you are practically a few footsteps away from Papadopoli Hotel.

Hotel Papadopoli Venice
Welcome to Hotel Papadopoli, Venice.
venetian lights
Aren’t these Venetian lights delightful?

The hotel has two advantages, a Papadopoli Gardens and a bit higher ground than some other hotels. During the last floods in Venice, they luckily stayed dry. What about other aspects?

Sign at Papadopoli Hotel
May I help you?
Papadopoli Hotel hallway
Hallways at Papadopoli has a bit of a heritage feel. Beautiful antiques are displayed everywhere.

The hotel is small, and you will discover all of it in about 5 minutes. On your right, you will see a lovely reception desk with eye-catching Murano glass features. Just straight from the entrance, there is a restaurant “Giardino d’Inverno,” and on your left, there is a lounge bar “La Terrazza.” Probably the biggest jewel is hidden behind the restaurant – Papadopoli Gardens.

Venetian style
Venetians were all in when it came to prestige.
Murano lamp
Murano Glass lamp is a must in Venice. I love it!

Speaking of design, Venetian all the way, with hints of modern touches. Murano, marble, chandeliers, gold, Venetian costumes, masks, feathers, fine-cut velvet, and even fashionable Italian shoes. Dark coming together with gold and beige, although the materials speak for themselves.

crystal knob
Crystal knob was my high school nickname. Just kidding…
Venice view
This was a view from our balcony. Lovely, right?

Check-In

Check-In was in Mgallery standard; quick and efficient. We got a lot of information about the city itself, a map for exploring, and even a welcome drink, served at the La Terrazza Lounge Bar. A flexible time frame for a welcoming drink turned out to be a great idea to put into action in the evening. That was when we enjoyed our tiki cocktails with snacks and traditional creamed cod aka “baccala montecato”. A luscious spread with origins dating back to the early 15th century when Venetian sailors got stranded on a Norwegian island.

Venetian lady
Can you imagine a receptionist dressed in this? Probably it would be torture.

Our Room

The first thing you will notice is a Baroque style canopy bed with lavish red velvet headboard and lovely wood-carved detail. As soon as you will change your view, you will see these wonderful fabric wallcoverings all over the place. The pastel colors with patterns are just perfect for an ambiance like this. Resanobly, the finishes are made with gold strings that help the details to connect the different styles. Antique furniture, some modern art, and a Morano glass table lamp in its place. There was also a balcony and a legendary view of the canal. 

Room Papadopoli Hotel Review
The room is spacious, quite neat and functional.
Venetian bed
Baroque style canopy bed got us some good sleep, though.

The bathroom is small but functional. Rainfall shower and Egyptian cotton will give you a sense of luxury but nothing standoffish. If you please to “do as Romans do” then don’t hesitate and splash your rare bottom in true Italian style. Italians are passionate bidet users for many reasons, most important to us is environmentally friendly practice.

Textile wallpapers
Textile wallpapers are also on the doors.
Papadopoli hotel bathroom
The bathroom is small but functional. No stand-alone bath but some good rainfall shower head for sure.

Facilities and Amenities

Hotel Papadopoli Venezia is stripped down when it comes to facilities. You will sleep like a baby, eat quite well and drink like a king. However, that’s about it. Probably the majority of guests are looking just for this. The main adventure is out of the hotel and canals are calling your name.

Antiques
If you are an antique sucker like me, you will love hotels like Papadopoli.
Papadopoli park
Papadopoli park is lovely. Inside Venice, some would kill for a park, like this 🙂

Despite all this, if you are planning to stay a bit longer in Venice, this hotel probably won’t satisfy your expectations. On the other hand, if you are a bohemian writer you will be sitting on your balcony, sipping espresso and considering your next words. So it might work.

Hotel's Bar
Hotel’s Bar for morning espresso.

Amenities are great, especially the emergency kit. Besides the usual tea and coffee, we got delicious meringue cookies and interesting – C.O. Bigelow toiletries. C.O. Bigelow is the oldest apothecary in America, working since 1938 and representing their personal care remedies. Carefully selected ingredients scented with lavender and peppermint are a propper fit for the evening routine, even if their roots are from America.

C.O. Bigelow
C.O. Bigelow is the oldest apothecary in America, working since 1938 and representing their personal care remedies
Button
As long I have this button, and it works I am happy. Hotel Papadopoli Venezia Review just got bonus point 🙂

Food and Drink

During your stay make sure to try some of the original cocktails inspired by the Venice at the La Terrazza. There you can have a light snack or enjoy a solid meal at the Giardino D’Inverno restaurant. This romantic setting will boost your appetite for attentively prepared local and international dishes.

tiki glasses
Our welcome drinks were presented in admirable tiki glasses.
Tea in Venice
Like in every port town, tea is an important part of the culture.

Breakfast

Winter Garden’s restaurant Giardino D’Inverno should be the focus of hungry tummies. Whether you are a hotel’s guest or not, you can enjoy a meal here. Every morning the centerpiece is a buffet breakfast filled with local delicacies such as the Venetian Pinza, Venetian Frìtole, and Panna Cotta. Needless to say, that is just the beginning of the dessert table. Those of you, who are looking for a healthy start to the day will be happy as well choosing among the plenty of nourishing bites, for example, detox salad. We started with the orange detox and green detox juice before moving on to the large Italian cheese plate. The selection of cold cuts was a perfect match also to the bruschetta and stuffed zucchini.

Venetian cheese
Luckily there was some Venetian cheese for the breakfast. However, we wouldn’t mind some other Italian fine cheeses.
Venetian Frìtole
Venetian Frìtole isthe Italian version of a doughnut.
Venetian Pinza
They also serve Venetian Pinza, traditional cornmeal cake. Delicious!

Winter Garden 

Buffet breakfast and ala carte meals are served at “Giardino d’Inverno” restaurant, situated in hotel’s winter garden, designed by famous Pietro Porcinai. When this garden was built there was upwards of 30 different indoor plants varieties, including Ficus repens, Ficus Benjamina, Ficus pandurata, Ficus bengalensis, Rhoicissus, Citrus mitis, Sparmannia africana, Stephanotis, Clerodendron, Philodendron pertusum/laciniatum/scandens, Begonia riga, Anthurium andreanum, and others. Time took a toll on the plants, but the garden is as desirable as ever. After all, the Papadopoli is the only public garden in Venice. Sadly, indoors the number of plant species is scarce with convenient plastic replacements here and there.

Restaurant Giardino D’Inverno
Restaurant Giardino D’Inverno was designed by famous Pietro Porcinai
Details
Details, details, details.

Final Thought

And here is the end of our Hotel Papadopoli Venezia Review. In summary, Hotel Papadopoli is a nice small hotel from the Mgallery collection and it can is obvious why they have this title. The whole hotel is designed thoughtfully and the service is superb. After all, this is something one would expect from Mgallery hotel. However, there is some room for improvements, but when one is in Venice…

Papadopoli bar
Even if it is a cozy bar, it is hard to stay inside…

Will be mostly wandering in this romantic city on the water. That’s why this hotel is lacking some facilities and rather encourage you to explore the city itself. Would I recommend Papadopoli Hotel? Sure, it is not extremely expensive, as can be seen here in Venice quickly. We truly liked the vintage touch and Venetian style all over the place. If you are a Venice fan like myself, here is my Venice photo gallery, where you can enjoy some wonderful Venice photos.

When Venice is waiting for you.

Hotel Papadopoli Venezia Review Card

  • 9.1/10
    ATMOSPHERE – 9.1/10
  • 9.1/10
    CLEANLINESS – 9.1/10
  • 8.6/10
    ROOM – 8.6/10
  • 7/10
    FACILITIES AND AMENITIES – 7/10
  • 8.8/10
    FOOD AND BEVERAGE – 8.8/10
  • 9.6/10
    SERVICE – 9.6/10
  • 9.4/10
    VALUE – 9.4/10
9.2/10

Price and Location

A room like ours with breakfast will cost you about 250 USD. Here is a link to the location if you miss the hotel when you come to Venice.

The post Hotel Papadopoli Venezia Review appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Sarai Resort & Spa Review: Morocco in Siem Reap https://wnfdiary.com/sarai-resort-spa-review-morocco-in-siem-reap/ Thu, 15 Apr 2021 19:14:34 +0000 https://wnfdiary.com/?p=12834 Welcome back to all hotel review seekers and travelers. Today we will check probably the most Instagrammable hotel in Siem Reap, Cambodia. We are talking about Sarai Resort & Spa which is built by Moroccan inspiration and that’s not all. […]

The post Sarai Resort & Spa Review: Morocco in Siem Reap appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Welcome back to all hotel review seekers and travelers. Today we will check probably the most Instagrammable hotel in Siem Reap, Cambodia. We are talking about Sarai Resort & Spa which is built by Moroccan inspiration and that’s not all. As you might know, we already posted their Seasons SPA Review, where you can see a few bits of this stunning luxury hotel. Today we are presenting you with more succulent photos and a sleek Sarai Resort & Spa Review.

Sarai Resort
Welcome to the little slice of Morocco in Siem Reap!

Ambiance

Piece of Morocco in Siem Reap features impeccable ogee curves and high ceilings that defy hot weather. Of course AC is on, but not at the inner courtyard where you can freshen up in the large hotel pool. By the looks of it, one is easily transported across the globe to Morocco. However, an open hallway on the way to the Sarai hotel room sets you right in Siem Reap and so does the food. 

Sarai Resort ambiance
This Moroccan style somehow fits to this Tropic climate.
moroccan design
A pool in the heart of Sarai Resort cools the air in the courtyard.

What we loved was an abundance of natural light and charming details Morocco is famous for. Then there is the story of an act where ancient Siem Reap meets Cambodian second-largest city. So why not mix colonial French legacy with the Instagrammable hot spots?

Sarai Resort Siem Reap
Arches are no strangers to the Khmer architecture and neither to the Moroccan.
hallway with sun
Can we all agree the hallways here at Sarai are cinematic.? Especially when the sun goes down and the golden light comes to the scene.

Check-In

Before I got a tour around the “lobby charms”, Ian was waiting for me with the keys in his hand. What can be better than fast check-in, right? In a word, Ian described staff here at check-in as fast, nice and welcoming.

Sarai Resort lobby
This is the Lobby of Sarai Resort and Spa. I love the open space with plenty of natural light coming in.

Our Room

Most of all, we loved the reusable water bottles that staff change every day. Minimalizing single-use plastic waste is on top of our demands that luxury hotels fail to fulfill. And here we are talking about big names like Mandarin Oriental, Sofitel, Intercontinental, Four Seasons…

Sarai Siem Reap
Comfort is guaranteed at the most Instagrammable hotel in Siem Reap.
Room tag
Our Room was 307. Lovely tags, by the way.
Glass bottle of water in hotel
Glass bottle of refilled water at hotel. This is what I am talking about! Well done Sarai Resort & SPA!

We also loved the bathroom sink at the doors, after all, washing hands should be the first thing after entering the private quarters. To point out, our room had interesting layout. It stretch over two floors, where lower space has a bedroom and bathroom, and upper floor vast terrace.

Sarai hotel room
Our hotel room was cozy even without the upper floor.
Bathroom at Sarai Resort and Spa
The layout isn’t bad, but some toilet doors would be nice. And if you ask me, the shower would be a much better option than a cramped bathtub.

We’re talking about the semi-enclosed terrace with very comfortable sitting and hanging daybed. Suddenly we were faced with the temptation of sleeping outside, but the cozy king bed downstairs, sorted this “problem”. In general, the room was clean and neat, providing everything we need. Wow, it’s rhyming. To continue… However, some maintenance show wouldn’t hurt, though.

Terrace at Sarai Resort
Our terrace could host the whole squad and the lucky one could have the swing as well.
girl from the top
This two storey hotel room is perfect to play with camera.

Facilities and Amenities

If you aren’t feeling right for a Sarai Seasons SPA, you’ll enjoy a cooling inner courtyard. Especially thanks to the salt-water swimming pool. Although, we urge you to visit Seasons SPA, at least for a relaxing foot massage. If not you can pull out Ian. Cold cocktail by the pool and he is all cool.

Sarai Siem Reap
Playing with the setting sun is the best, can you spot it?
common space at Sarai
Cozy common space is what every hotel needs!

By the way, this layout of the pool is a traditional Moroccan trick that keeps the place cooler. The pool is especially charming after dark, possibly for a post-workout cool-off. Guests can exercise their hearts out at the hotel gym if the meal at the Goat Tree Restaurant was too big.

girl drinking tea
Sadly, no high teas here at Sarai, but luckily three amazing options here near. Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra, Grand Hotel d’Angkor and Park Hyatt

Goat Tree Garden Restaurant 

Sarai Resort’s buffet breakfast happens every morning from 6 am to 10 am at the Goat Tree Garden restaurant. In that time frame, guests can choose among the western breakfast classics and local must-haves. Let’s not forget the fresh fruit and salad selection, which got replenished as needed. Then there is the egg menu that soothes the hungriest souls. The breakfast selection is broad enough to keep you full till lunch.

Goat Tree Restaurant
Goat Tree Garden restaurant is a lovely place for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

From noon till 2:30 pm anyone can visit the Goat Tree Restaurant for some tasty Khmer dishes. We tried some of their signatures, like Combination platter and Chef’s mix. Both plates included different local Khmer salads, with the winning chicken and green mango salad. We proclaimed it unanimously due to the wonderful alliance between fragrant herbs, crunchy vegetables, and tender chicken. Here we must admit that the rest was very tasty as well, especially the rich plum sauce that was perfect with the fried spring rolls.

Breakfast at Sarai Resort and Spa
Breakfast at Sarai Resort and Spa, Siem Reap is simple yet delicious.

Following toothsome starters, we tried creamy yellow chicken curry with sweet potatoes, carrots, and long beans. It wasn’t too spicy and tasted very nice, but we preferred the luscious coconut soup with a shrimp ball and fresh Kampot pepper. We finished our delightful meal with a scoop of coconut ice cream and passion fruit sorbet. Both were spot on and we recommend a meal at the Goat Tree Restaurant during your stay at the Sarai Resort & SPA.

Khmer tasting menu
We enjoyed authentic Khmer cuisine for lunch.

Final Thought

Indeed, we loved the most Instagrammable hotel in Siem Reap with all its charms and plant abundance at the ground level. Although it isn’t quite as luscious as the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra, it is picture-perfect. However, it has something that many hotels lack; in-room reusable glass bottles and infused water in the lobby. We get that pandemic changed the rules and single-use plastic soared, which is just heartbreaking. Hopefully, with unforeseen reset, we will change our attitude towards earth. It is now or never! Thank you for reading our Sarai Resort & Spa Review and see you next time.

saltwater pool in Siem Reap
Salt water pool soothes skin, doesn’t irritate respiratory system, and it is better for the environment.

Sarai Resort & SPA Review Card

  • 9.5/10
    ATMOSPHERE – 9.5/10
  • 9.3/10
    CLEANLINESS – 9.3/10
  • 9/10
    ROOM – 9/10
  • 9.2/10
    FACILITIES AND AMENITIES – 9.2/10
  • 8.8/10
    FOOD AND BEVERAGE – 8.8/10
  • 9.5/10
    SERVICE – 9.5/10
  • 9.2/10
    VALUE – 9.2/10
9.2/10

Price and Location

A room like ours at Sarai Resort & SPA will cost you about 150 USD. Here is a link to the location for easier navigation! Damn, I am good with rhymes today.

The post Sarai Resort & Spa Review: Morocco in Siem Reap appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Sarai Resort & Spa – Seasons Spa https://wnfdiary.com/sarai-resort-spa-seasons-spa-review/ Thu, 08 Apr 2021 19:26:34 +0000 https://wnfdiary.com/?p=12807 Seasons SPA at the Sarai Resort Siem Reap is the place to be after the Angkor Wat tour. Despite adrenalin rush during the temple run, your feet will suffer at the end of the day. Chances are, your back will […]

The post Sarai Resort & Spa – Seasons Spa appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Seasons SPA at the Sarai Resort Siem Reap is the place to be after the Angkor Wat tour. Despite adrenalin rush during the temple run, your feet will suffer at the end of the day. Chances are, your back will be reflecting the offbeat routine as well. Luckily for you, the Sarai Resort & SPA has a few treatments to help you through the active part of your well-earned holidays. I tried their foot massage and it was divine. So, let’s get to our Sarai Resort Seasons SPA review where we go into details.

girl on bed
All the walk around Siem Reap took toll. My feet were exhausted

About Seasons SPA

Seasons SPA menu is built around four basic elements; Air, Earth, Fire, and Water. These elements are a pillar of signature Seasons Rituals, where you can support elemental powers most essential to you. Each season offers another type of massage and all but Autumn includes body scrub. Most extravagant must be Romantic Ritual, due to the face and body hot stone therapy. On the other hand, you can calm your mind with tailored body and beauty treatment topped with facial care of your choice at the Seasons SPA Sarai Resort.

brass door latch and lock
Enter at your own risk and relax!
Sarai Hotel Siem Reap
Somehow Moroccan style vibes with Siem Reap really well.

Seasons SPA Atmosphere 

A simple sign will peel your eyes away from the Sarai Hotel entrance and point you towards the stepping stones. Once you get around the corner, you see the Seasons SPA entrance. Of course, the black and white Moroccan theme continues throughout the Seasons SPA. Together with some oriental touches, like an open foot massage area, is particularly relaxing. Most of all we loved the chillax vibes setting the time on serene tracks.

Sarai Siem Reap
Moroccan style is present throughout the Sarai Resort & Spa
best hotel in Siem Reap
Thank you Sarai hotel for your eco-friendly efforts! We were over the moon when we saw drinking water in reusable glass bottles.

My Experience

I must admit, all the walk we did in Siem Reap, showed on my heavy feet. That’s the reason, I choose a one-hour foot massage from their menu. Before my massage, we checked the lovely display of natural lotions, oils, and scrubs. I loved the smell of sweet almond, which is perfect for the Moroccan-inspired surroundings, although blood orange was spot on as well. While I was sniffing away the fragrant products, we got cooling pomegranate juice to toast to the occasion.

stepping stones design
Just walking down this path is an event.
Sarai Hotel Siem Reap
Night time magic on the Seasons SPA path is awesome

My foot massage took off with a herbal bath and continued with a pleasant scrub. I couldn’t say no to the intoxicating frangipani exfoliation. In addition to that, the towel was pleasingly rough to get rid of the last dull bits.

Seasons SPA Siem Reap
Outdoorsy foot massage area brought us from Morocco to Thailand, but Khmer touch kept us in Siem Reap.

Finally, the eager lady rubbed my feet with trained moves up to the knee and down to the toes. What I especially loved was incorporated acupressure and of course divine smelling oils. In the end, I got a cup of hot lemongrass tea, which felt wonderful despite the hot temperatures.

cambodian oil bottle
Clay oil bottles are filled with sweet almond, blood orange, eucalyptus, and sandalwood oils.
lotus origami
It is possible that towel represents Cambodian ground?

Final Thought

I doubt that there is a person who doesn’t enjoy being pampered now and then. My only regret is that I didn’t have more time and try another massage. Despite my short visit, the masseuse made a fantastic impression with her receptive nature. The ambiance is nice, staff super lovely and prices affordable. Therefore, I warmly suggest giving them a visit next time when you will be in Siem Reap. I know, I will. If you are asking yourself about the hotel itself, here is our Sarai Resort & Spa Review post.

folded lotus flowers
Folded lotus flowers look gorgeous even if they aren’t the freshest.
silk ceiling light
Silk shines brightest in the golden hour.

Seasons Spa Review Card

  • 9.3/10
    ATMOSPHERE – 9.3/10
  • 9.4/10
    OFFER – 9.4/10
  • 9.0/10
    MASSAGE – 9.0/10
  • 8.5/10
    RELAXATION ROOM – 8.5/10
  • 9.2/10
    VALUE – 9.2/10
9.1/10

Price & Location

Treatments are possible every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. all you need to do is make a reservation and pay the bill afterward. It goes without saying that the prices depend on the treatment, although don’t miss the special offers. Here is a link to the location for easier navigation.

The post Sarai Resort & Spa – Seasons Spa appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Most Common Mistakes at Hotels https://wnfdiary.com/most-common-mistakes-at-hotels/ Fri, 02 Apr 2021 14:46:26 +0000 https://wnfdiary.com/?p=12782 Hotels should be a place of complete comfort and a safe haven in a foreign environment. As much as this sounds like an illusion it is not far from the truth. Home away from home is about feeling good and […]

The post Most Common Mistakes at Hotels appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Hotels should be a place of complete comfort and a safe haven in a foreign environment. As much as this sounds like an illusion it is not far from the truth. Home away from home is about feeling good and enjoying well-earned time off, but as always things can go south. In the lines below we will focus on the most common mistakes at hotels when hosting guests.

Sofitel Metropole Hanoi Room
Sure it should be tidy and neat, but sometimes things can be overlooked. This beautiful room is at Hotel Sofitel Metropole Hanoi

Lack of Common Space

We get that it is impossible to please everybody, especially when everyone is obsessed with individual rights and super sensitive about basically everything. That and cramped cities, where one can’t rest without spending money on drinks, can be frustrating. So much so that we kept looking for a spot outside our hotel room, where we could go through a magazine or adore the stunning indoor jungle. Just a cozy nook for a break from feeling like a walking ATM all the time. Plus, people fight on vacations so chill corner could be a real gem. Some hotels have plenty of common space but others simply lack them. This might be one of the common mistakes at hotels.

siem reap luxury hotel
Sofitel Angkor, Siem Reap has the biggest offer of the public sitting area we have come across so far.

Cranked Up AC

One cause why we wanted to leave our hotel room was a cold temperature that called for a winter jacket. As it happens in tropics freezing indoor temperatures are a sign of luxury, but that isn’t healthy, and neither it is environmentally friendly. Thankfully, guests have control of the AC in the hotel room, but that is about it. With that being said, don’t forget to pack a winter jacket for your next tropical escape. It might come in handy for breakfast, dinner, or during transport. 

old fan
Cranked up AC is one of the most common mistakes at hotels. However, dirty filter on AC is not so uncommon as well in hotels.

Furniture and Equipment Malfunction

Another common mistake at Hotels is a malfunction in furniture or equipment. Furthermore, it happens in all classes, from 4 to elite 5-star hotels. However, this is totally normal. Furniture gets used and appliances have their “expiry date”. In hotels, those things get to wear down even faster than at home. Most of the guests simply don’t take care and handle furniture in very bad manure. We were a witness in 3 months old hotel, where the marble flooring was scratch like it has been there for at least 25 years.

Parquet fail
Heritage hotels are old and the equipment is old as well. Sometimes things just need a refurbishing. We had a parquet fail once.

Even if these malfunctions and flaws are common at hotels, I don’t totally blame the management of the hotels. Usually, the guests don’t report the problem and hotel workers don’t have a clue about the flaw. At check-out people are just nodding, maybe even hoping to get away with an accident, or later giving a bad review on Tripadvisor and that’s about it. It is our responsibility to report the flaws so the hotel can act and fix them.

green dining room
Sacher Hotel Vienna have employed in-house furniture conservator.

Lack of Sustainable Practice

Chilled indoor air is just one issue on the hotel’s sustainability list. More concerning is the cleaning regime, which usually consists of harsh chemical products. That was before the pandemic, now the notorious virus forced the environmentally friendly practice out of the window! In return, we saw the unprecedented comeback of single-use plastic and naturally even heavier use of chemical cleaners. Then there is the issue of wasted food, which is a (too!) long-lasting challenge in many kitchens.

Sofitel Metropole Hanoi Hotel review
Arranging a plastic bottle of water like this won’t get you a better score when we are reviewing you. Discharge them the same as you should plastic straws, cutlery, and cups. We are at a luxury hotel not in Indonesia having a picnic on the grass.

However, the biggest flaw in sustainable practice is plastic bottles in the room! I can’t describe how angry I get when I see those complimentary plastic 0,5l bottles in my room. We never even touch them, just reduce the score of the hotel review. Sadly about 95% of 5-star luxury hotels offer plastic bottles of water. Well, at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok Hotel, only the guests staying in high-end suites get water in a glass bottle. Spending 1000 USD for a room and seeing a plastic bottle is a shame. Just filter your own water and change the bottles, that is all we ask. Safe the planet folks! It is a top-end hotel, not a Khao San Road hostel!

Glass bottle of water in hotel
Glass bottle of refilled water at hotel. This is what I am talking about! Well done Sarai Hotel!

Bad Food

Distasteful food is our nightmare and so is food poisoning. Luxury hotels are on the safer side of this remark, but that doesn’t mean we haven’t been disappointed. Oversupply for a buffet meal can lead to overly complicated dishes with poor execution, but things can go wrong in the ala carte section as well. Food is an incredibly important aspect of travel therefore hotels should proudly serve the most beloved local specialties. As a good example, the Hotel Stripes, Kuala Lumpur is offering some street food provided directly from the local vendors and we love it. On the other hand, Sofitel Metropole Hanoi was offering us Phở, which disappointed us a lot. Especially when you know the first vendor with delicious soup is just around the corner. Collaborate not compete! You don’t have a slight chance with antie and her soup!

The worst Afternoon Tea
This is the worst afternoon tea we ever got at 5-star luxury hotel. Even the photo is cringey. Whipped cream and cherry as a dessert? Even Luxardo Maraschino Cherry couldn’t save you from disaster in this case.

Underestimation of the Guest

A five-star hotel might be used to have posh guests that need sunglasses in the dark, knitted hats in summer and travel with numerous suitcases. By all means, every traveler is entitled to his/her unique style. For us, it is minimalistic backpack action and precisely that was a cause of porter’s rolling eyes. To us, it was funny seeing him unaware of what to do with our backpack. We ignored the message on his face and were amused by his dilemma.

Vivi
Don’t worry, at the dinner we will be all fancy.

As always, something out of the ordinary puts the service to the real test, and that never fails. We are who we are; two hedonists sticking out of the ordinary as often as possible. However, the issue is much bigger than our little test, it is about prejudice and that is not acceptable in the hospitality industry. It is hard to believe this is one of the most common mistakes at hotels with 5 stars, but we encounter it a few times.


Better Prices on Metasearch Sites 

Call us naive, but we expect a better price when we directly book a room. In our world, intermediary agent charges a fee, so direct booking should be desirable. Sometimes it is more affordable to book via Booking or Trivago than directly at the hotel and that’s a minus for us. Just make sure guests will make a reservation with you directly, give them some perks, special price, welcome gift…

chocolate pralines for Fans of Mandarin Oriental club
Hotels should have the best offer when making a reservation directly. Just some perks and special offers, that’s all.

Cleanliness

One of the most common mistakes at hotels is a lack of cleanliness. Hotel rooms have a lot of corners and nooks where the dirt could come in. I know the cleaning team has a lot of work to do, but there should be a better inspection before the room is booked.

hotel mess
Can you find the flaw in this picture? This was a view from our 5-star luxurious resort. Yep, someone left a lighting bulb there…

The post Most Common Mistakes at Hotels appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort Review https://wnfdiary.com/sofitel-angkor-phokeethra-golf-spa-resort-review/ Sat, 06 Mar 2021 13:40:12 +0000 https://wnfdiary.com/?p=12631 Welcome back to all travel lovers and the best hotel seekers. This time we stopped at the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Siem Reap is well known among travelers and all adventure people out […]

The post Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort Review appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>
Welcome back to all travel lovers and the best hotel seekers. This time we stopped at the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Siem Reap is well known among travelers and all adventure people out there. Angkor temples are the world’s famous sights and the people here are truly warm and welcoming. However, if you wanna experience Siem Reap on the luxury end, then you shouldn’t miss the local Sofitel Resort. For all who are wondering how it is here, we are providing you our Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort Review.

best pool in Siem Reap
If the sightseeing tire you out, you can relax at large hotel pool.

Ambiance

The moment you’ll step on the property of the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, you’ll get a sense of a real green oasis. From all sides, it is encased with greenery and flowers. That is why we were able to hear birds singing every time we were outside.

Siem Reap Hotel Park
Gardeners must have their hands full at all times to keep the oasis neatly manicured.
Cambodia water village
Follow the paved path or bridge to navigate across or around the Sala lake.

To be honest, the lush park looks like a dream and feels like a fairytale. The thoughtfully planned complex will urge you to explore every corner, and if you are a true nature lover, you will love every inch of Sofitel Siem Reap.

air purifying plants
We discovered a bunch of air purifying plants at the Sofitel Angkor resort.
Cambodian art
Khmer culture is well presented here at Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort
Khmer art
Not only outside, also in the rooms!

Check-in & Chill

After the brief check-in, we were presented with a beautifully put-together welcoming drink. Needless to say, we enjoyed the intense lemongrass iced tea, although the presentation itself was equally satisfying. The tea was placed in the charming see-through bottle with fresh infusion, but we were thrilled with the lemongrass stem as a plastic straw replacement. 

Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra
This is Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Resort’s reception area.
Lemongrass iced tea
The indisputable star in our welcoming drink was the lemongrass, especially lemongrass stem straw.

Facilities and Amenities

The first and to us most important facility is the lush park with benches and a walking path. Going through the neatly manicured green surface before reaching the pool area is incredibly relaxing, but you’ll easily find a shorter route if you want to avoid a walk in the park.

Siem Reap Park
Probably one of the greenest parks here in Siem Reap.
Siem Reap pool
Not far from the pool area is the gym, children’s club and SPA

Once you get to the pool area, you’ll discover that the hotel gym is right at hand. The gym is well equipped for a good workout with provided water and fresh fruit. After good cardio, you might want a SPA treatment at the award-winning luxury Sofitel Spa with L’Occitane or relax with a book at the outdoor library in the middle of the lake.

Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra gym
With Sofitel fit membership you can enjoy 24h/7 access to the hotel gym, pool and saunas
Sofitel Siem Reap
Fancy a walk in paradise?

Although, the golf at the Phokeethra Country Club might be a tempting idea as well. Regardless of your desires, we are very confident that you’ll find something that will meet your needs. 

baby bananas
Bananas taste so much better when they don’t travel long distances.

Regarding the amenities at Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, we can only confirm that you will get everything you need. However, the TV channels aren’t exciting at all, but hey when the adventure outside is calling for you, TV is the last concern. The downside is their beverage offer. Your complimentary tea will be Twinings and the water is in a plastic bottle.

When You have a view like this, you don’t miss TV at all.
Sofitel Lavin toiletries
Gently scented Lavin toiletries feature floral orange blossoms

Our Room

Rooms are cozy and bright. Our favorite part of the room was the comfortable sitting area from where we could see the park. Clever plant design and curtains provided enough privacy to feel cozy and carefree inside the Sofitel Siem Reap hotel room. Like the rest of the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, the room is also equipped with a charming colonial design.

sofitel angkor phokeethra hotel room
Our favorite part of the room was the lush green view.
Lotus flower art
A comfortable king-size bed proved to be a solid base for a good night’s sleep.

The layout of the room is not bad at all, but you might be disappointed with the bathroom design. Its design is more likely for socialist blocks than a luxury 5-star hotel.

five star hotel Siem Reap
This chill corner of our room was perfect for tea time.
Sofitel Angkor bathroom
…and the award for the best bathroom design is not going to the Sofitel Angkor resort this year

Food

During your stay at the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, you’ll be able to try some fine French cuisine with a glass of wine or enjoy a local Khmer dinner with a traditional dancing performance. The resort has also its own herb garden and we love that.

khmer dance
Traditional Khmer dancing at your diner is something we will miss on daily basis.

Here we must mention their substantial wine collection, which is on display at the Explorer’s tales bar. Sofitel Siem Reap houses three restaurants, while the poolside Serpent Bar caters to refreshments of all sorts. As expected, the lobby bar and wine room are meant for a thirst-quenching break, but you can expand your order at the Explorer’s Tales bar to the afternoon tea set.

Siem Reap Wine bar
Wine stock is not bad at all!

Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort High Tea

There is probably no better way to celebrate luxury life, than with a good afternoon tea set. For the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra High Tea, one can choose between the classic and Khmer version. In a word, we preferred the Khmer high tea version, although the whole tea-time experience was much better at the Club Millésime. For More Information, please check our Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra High Tea Review

hotel outdoor restaurant
Isn’t this a perfect spot for afternoon tea time?

Buffet Breakfast at the Citadel

All you can eat breakfast at the Citadel restaurant caters to an Asian and Western array of dishes. We found the healthy station with freshly prepared 100% juice with a fitting menu. Close by was the yogurt and cereal station, plus nuts and fruit.

Siem Reap breakfast
Freshly squeezed juices were surrounded by the western-style breakfast during our stay.

Only a step away was a salad station with numerous add ons that continued to the neatly displayed cold cuts and cheese area. Of course, there was also a bread station and eggs cooked to order.

Best Buffet in Siem Reap
The fresh fruit selection was certainly in abundance.

A list of more fulfilling dishes goes on and includes soups, baked vegetables, meat, and warm sides. Without a doubt, you’ll enjoy a selection of pastries that will fit perfectly next to a cup of coffee or tea.

Citadel restaurant
French-style bread with sweet pastry had the whole corner to itself.

Club Millésime

Club Millésime is the executive lounge of the Sofitel hotel chain. To join this club you must be a high-rank customer, make a reservation for a high-end room or add on extra service to your rate. From time to time, we do opt for Club Millésime, and here is our review. At Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, they hold their Club Millésime on this beautiful floating house in the middle of the lake.

Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort
A floating house surrounded by the water lilies is out of this world.

Food was ok, and according to our zig-zag walking to the room, the drinks were good as well. They did serve a few cocktails and also wine. On top of that, you will be even able to try out some of the high tea bites here. And if you like mornings calmer, you can have your breakfast rather here, than in the more crowded Citadel restaurant.

Sofitel Siem Reap Club Millesime
We advise you to join the Club Millesime and get pampered throughout your stay.
Elephant statue
Art has an important place at the resort.

Service

Service at Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort is great as it is common for Sofitel Hotels. Khmer people are welcoming and somehow remind us of Thai. Wide smiles, French greetings, and chatty nature. We would like to express admiration to the all staff here.

Sofitel Siem Reap
The artist played soothing tunes on the traditional Khmer instrument in the lobby.
Hotel lobby decor
During our visit, the florist ornate the lobby with a sacred pink lotus flower.

Conclusion

No doubt! Sofitel did it again. Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort is another hospitality haven for all travelers who are looking for something more than just stay. Sure the competition in the luxury hotel segment is harsh here in Siem Reap, so everyone is doing their best to prove their superiority.

siem reap luxury hotel
Sofitel Angkor has the biggest offer of the public sitting area we have come across so far.
terrace dining
Colonial charm is evident throughout the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Resort

Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort is a great resort with amazing ambiance and the most friendly service. However, when it comes to food, there is a lot of space for improvements. But we figured out what is going on there in this resort.

Sofitel Angkor Breakfast
Food could be better though.

The majority of the guests here at Siem Reap Sofitel Resort, are seniors and the hotel simply fell into the senior trap. These guests aren’t very demanding when it comes to food and the staff just get used to it. However, seniors aren’t the only bad thing for hotels. Far from that. They are bringing that tranquility to the hotel and this is what we truly like here. Are you looking for a calm stay? If yes, this is the venue for you. I hope you liked our Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort Review. See you next time.

lotus flower arrangement
Thank you to all the staff!
Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra
If it would be up to Vivi we would still be at the Sofitel Siem Reap.

Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort Review Card

  • 9.9/10
    ATMOSPHERE – 9.9/10
  • 9.8/10
    CLEANLINESS – 9.8/10
  • 8.5/10
    ROOM – 8.5/10
  • 9.5/10
    FACILITIES AND AMENITIES – 9.5/10
  • 8.4/10
    FOOD AND BEVERAGE – 8.4/10
  • 9.7/10
    SERVICE – 9.7/10
  • 9.3/10
    VALUE – 9.3/10
9.3/10

Price and Location

A night here at Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort will cost you about 200 USD for two persons. At this price, it is included Club Millésime access and breakfast. Here is a link to the location for easier navigation. Enjoy your stay!

The post Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort Review appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

]]>