WHEN checking in at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa, it is so nice that when you walk up to the desk, the receptionist knows your name before you even hand over your papers (I know the door man called it in, but it is still special!)
I arrived a little early for check-in as I was on a break between a full day of meetings. Due to this, the room wasn’t quite ready as it was Easter weekend and they were still dealing with check-outs.
But they understood that I had only a short time between my meetings and my daughter and her friend, who were with me, were keen to settle into the room and head off to the pool and beach.
So within a few minutes they were able to accommodate our early arrival which was very much appreciated.
I unfortunately didn’t get to enjoy the beach and pool but my daughter and her friend had a ‘fab’ afternoon, they were shown to a shady spot at the pool and had lunch at the Overlook Café. After was apparently ice cream and brownies on their sun beds!
In the evening we went to the Executive Club Lounge for nibbles and pre-dinner drinks, and again, everyone welcomed us by name.
Then it was on to Primavera for a tasty Italian meal, the only down side here was that the girls had snacked so much at the pool, that they couldn’t finish the lovely food they ordered – but I certainly did along with a nicely-chilled beverage.
I had a car with me, which was a shame, as you can choose from various forms of transportation to and from the airport from a private hotel van for BD25 one way (up to a maximum of five persons per car), a Limousine service for BD22 per way (up to a maximum of three persons per car) and, for the ultimate experience and comfort, a Rolls-Royce Phantom. A Montreal limousine service can be booked for airport transfers or for four, eight or 12 hours with chauffeur. Shame I had the Honda!
All in all, although a very short stay, a pleasant and friendly one! I would like to come back when I can enjoy the facilities, and would certainly recommend The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa, for both business and pleasure!
By Kim Thomson