It took three years, but the wait was worth it. The old Holiday Inn Bahrain, which first opened its doors to guests in 1979, has now been transformed into a spanking new, ultra-modern Crowne Plaza.

The Holiday Inn was always a popular hotel in Bahrain, especially among business travellers, so what was the need for such a transformation?

"We wanted to present the people of Bahrain with the best in five-star luxury," said General Manager Oussama Masood.

"Holiday Inns generally have a four-star image, so after the extensive renovation, we wanted to present a top-of-the-range hotel for our customers.

"Though we remain in the same Six Continents family, the Crowne Plaza brand generally tends to cater to the more upmarket, trendy sort of business customer. And we look forward to attracting more of that kind of customer now. But we are confident that the changes won't turn away our regular customers, most of whom have strong loyalty to the hotel," added Masood.

The hotel presents an imposing new-look, with the impressive frontal facade catching the eye first. Step in through the glass doors and one is struck immediately by the splendour of the new lobby. The new Cappucino coffee shop just off the lobby adds a relaxing touch.

The renovation which started in 1999 started off with Phase I which involved the complete refurbishment and decoration of 165 guest bedrooms and bathrooms. This included installation of new air-conditioning , incorporating a new telephone system and in room internet / fax lines.

Phase Two consisted of makeovers for The Harvesters Pub, La Mosaique Restaurant, Harvesters Terrace, the outdoor paved patio and the all-new Tracks Sports Bar.

The all-new Waves seafood restaurant will be the flagship outlet of the hotel. Waves is themed on the seafood market concept, with customers being able to select their fish and have it cooked in three different styles, Lebanese, Indian or south-east Asian.

The entire decor is done around the seafood with exquisite handmade decorations