The Le Meridien Al Aqah Resort is just how I remembered it and externally, it looked the same as the first time I saw it, about 8 years ago. However, the inside has been recently updated and on hearing this, we had to find out more! The iconic hotel is a true part of the Fujairah holiday culture and stands tall, surrounded by the vast Hajjar Mountain range beside the coast of the Indian Ocean. It was one of the first luxury hotels to grace the shores and, in our opinion, played a big part in making Fujairah, the tourist destination hub what it is today.
We experienced this resort again at the end of the recent Easter break after 2 years of trying other hotels in the area. We enjoyed the nostalgia of driving through the mountainous region and on arriving at the hotel, revelled in so many good memories of previous visits.
The reception was vibrant, lined with an exciting abstract carpet in the distance. A grand red walkway guided you towards the stunning design of the reception area and the smiles that greeted you delivered a warm Meridien welcome.
The view was one I remembered well, and, this time around, thoroughly enjoyed watching and hearing my children’s “wows and ‘ooohs” as the lift opened onto the outlook from the 7th floor. The bay windows are undoubtably attractive and give you the first glance onto the vast blue resort below.
The renovated rooms were consistent of the calm contemporary design but yet exuded a homely feel. Decorated simply with our favourite MTW tones of browns and beiges, the space was calm and suitable for families, business travellers and romantics alike. The bathroom was bright and white with fluffy Meridien branded robes waiting to wrap themselves around you.
Consisting of 2 pools, a beautiful beach area, a kids club, an avery, a mini golf course, 9 restaurants and much more, the resort below was a marvel to look at and no sooner had we arrived and settled into our comfortable sleeping quarters, we were down at the pool, enjoying the Fujairah sunshine and taking the kids on their much anticipated visit to the Penguins Kids Club.
The children’s space was so well designed and bright with a huge menu of entertainment for children aged 4 and upwards. Small details unfortunately meant the kids club didn’t perform well for us on the day and alongside the addition of untidy seating areas around the pool area and an entrance covered with children’s shoes, the general feeling was that of a little unorganised. The children undoubtably loved the area and it had lots of potential. Aside from the lifeguard, the outside space also lacked a little staff presence, unlike others clubs we’ve visited in the past where we were spoken to frequently by the club staff engaging with our children whilst at the same time being offered refreshments and cold towels. However, the club had everything it needed otherwise to be clean, safe and a happy environment for the children.
Our visit to the main pool, brought about a different experience. This was the best area to spend your time. The swim up bar is a great novelty and is surrounded by shallow waters which makes it a great area for the kids to play safely whilst sipping on cocktails and mocktails during sunset. Water activities such as water gymnastics and volleyball are available throughout the day and it was nice to see everyone joining in, adding to the friendly and sociable atmosphere!
The beach is still as beautiful as I remember too! Fujairah has had its ups and down over the years when it comes to coastal changes but is still known as one of the best dive and snorkel spots in the world, in addition to its white sandy beaches and beautiful views.
We ate in the room that night. The service was great and the food was tasty and completely echoed the delicious pork (yey) breakfast in the morning. The children could choose their own dishes at breakfast from a great travel themed breakfast area and the staff were efficient, friendly and full of early morning smiles (not something you find everywhere!)…
We had a short yet very nostalgic visit to Furairah and it gives us great pleasure to highlight this part of the UAE to the world. Quiet and cultural, this coastal area is a perfect place for a family getaway – especially at the Le Meridien Al Aqah!
Thank you to the team at Al Aqah for memorable stay and still maintaining the true essence of Fujariah! We’ll be back for more..
For reservations | 971 9 244 9000
Journey well..
Love,
Dubai Based Travel Bloggers