SINCE embarking on a new phase of ambitious developments, Al Areen Palace & Spa, has been welcoming a steady stream of guests to its well‐appointed villas, dining outlets and spa facilities.
The property has continuously undergone several upgrades, refurbishments and new additions to its various services. In return, the hotel has been attracting very positive feedback combined with increased growth for family segment and a steady flow of returning clients, who in return can benefit by earning points from the Ahlan Rewards programme. In operation for the past eight years, it has created a niche for luxury, comfort and privacy; a complete destination for the entire family. With the New Year ahead, the hotel is now looking forward to offering more services, facilities and exclusive offers to all its discerning guests. General manager Pierre Vasseur shares with TTN his vision and insight into ongoing developments and future projects. What has been most significant in last year’s development process? When the first phase of the property upgrading was launched, our main goal was to make sure that our guests will continue to enjoy the luxury facilities we offer. From that time on, one by one the villas are being refurbished, repainted, and maintained. Otherwise, we would not be able to accommodate the increasing demand from the market. Among many other things, the property has also seen positive changes in its environment and facilities, such as the scenic landscaping, the reopening of the Vitality Pool, the newly constructed road and evening lights (providing high convenience to all our guests), the beautiful night lights that decorate our main façade and the newest fountains around the resort. What has been the most favourable feature of the hotel? In the first place, the credit goes to the entire Al Areen team who tirelessly strive to provide all our guests with the most satisfying stay. Secondly, given its tranquil environment and luxurious elegance, the resort provides an overall sensory retreat – from the comfort of your very own villa or a sumptuous dining offer, to a blissful haven of relaxation at our award winning spa. There is no doubt that Al Areen Palace & Spa sets itself apart. What can guests look forward to in the coming months? Our dining offers are geared towards a busy and exciting year. Starting with February, Valentine’s Day welcomed couples, families and friends at Saffron, for the finest Khaleeji fusion cuisine, and to sumptuous East Asian fare at Keizo. Both venues offered exquisite fine dining and special packages for this joyous celebration. Furthermore, we have recently created three new gazebos for intimate dining at Keizo Al Areen islands, complete with attractive decorations and personal butler service, and which can be tailor‐ made for any special occasion you wish to celebrate. In addition, guests can also look forward to creative additions in our menu selections. For dessert lovers, select from freshly made cakes and pastries, along with exquisite chocolate collections from our very own brand, Le Palais du Chocolat. Of course, all this feasting will have to be balanced out with a trip to our fully equipped health club and wellness centre. Don’t miss our special gym membership offer, or better yet, guests can avail themselves of our special fitness programme packages, complete with professional trainer. A great boost to attain your fitness goals! The current weather also provides the perfect setting for wedding events at Al Areen Palace. With charming landscape and scenery, our outdoor venues provide a fresh take on the traditional ballroom set‐up; a lover’s canvas that can be custom themed and crafted to make wedding memories last forever. Furthermore, this year’s highlights also include Al Areen Palace outdoor catering services. Though only introduced last year, the catering service now extends all its dining offers at the convenience of one’s location, event and/or celebration. Whether an elaborate or intimate set-up, we provide full tailor-made services and facilities on par with five-star services. What are the hotel’s key markets and what new markets would you like to tap into?With the hospitality and leisure industry regaining its balance in the region, our markets from Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have generally increased. Our main aim is to continue growth in these markets, while simultaneously concentrating on the Saudi family market, especially as it is the easiest market to reach from Bahrain. Also, due to the great potential from our highly acclaimed dining and spa offers, there is rising demand to increase our share in the Bahraini market, as more and more locals and residents seek a complete destination venue. A “staycation” that offers a relaxing and stress‐free atmosphere. Any plans for new expansions and developments?Al Areen Palace and Spa will continue to move to its next phase of development and creative upgrading. It is also our goal to further elevate the service standards that we offer. This is to be achieved through the management’s effort in providing the team with efficient in‐house training, and through official courses provided through several training companies. Moreover, an ambitious undertaking to further expand and be at par with world‐class spa providers is now being planned for our spa facilities. Finally, as general manager what is your vision for the property?Having worked at Al Areen Palace & Spa for a year now, I firmly believe that there is indeed great potential waiting to be tapped. With the management’s support, the transformational refurbishment, combined with diverse offerings, innovation and commitment in delivering an extraordinary level of service, will definitely redefine Al Areen Palace & Spa as one of the leading luxury hotels in the region. In addition, the property is designed for one’s personal serenity, both physically and spiritually, once served this purpose, it is my desire to encourage guests to pass on their good experiences, which will then develop a positive reputation in the market.