ALTHOUGH it was March 2011 when The InterContinental Regency Bahrain re-opened its doors after a major refurbishment, today it still has the look and feel of a new hotel.
Walking into the vast, but welcoming lobby gives a sense of warmth and charm as you are greeted by staff. At check in, was another welcoming member of staff who checked me in quick and effectively. I was a member of IHG Rewards Club but sadly I let it expire, so I was asked if I wished to rejoin and with this I received a two for one refreshment voucher, which was welcomed after a long day of business meetings.The room, although classified as ‘standard classic room’ at more than 32sq meters, could have easily been a deluxe room at other properties. It had a king-sized bed, a working desk and a table and two chairs to relax or enjoy some television, get some reading done. The bathroom was very spacious too with both a bath and shower. I know that a lot of hotels, particularly business hotels, now only opt for showers, so for me, having the option of a bath after a long day, even if I only have time for a short soak, helps me unwind. Free internet also is offered in every room and, in fact, throughout the hotel. This is another major thumbs up in order to keep up with emails and to be able to do follow-ups immediately at the end of the day. I know a lot of hotels provide a kettle and tea and coffee making facilities in your room, but of late, I have stayed in a couple that only have the expresso machine – which is lovely, but I do enjoy my cup of tea first thing in the morning.
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A large room in InterContinental Regency Bahrain |
With three days full of business meetings at every end of Bahrain, the central location of the hotel helped. Not only is it close to the central business district, but has easy access to the highway to head out to the Seef and as far as Zallaq, Bahrain International Circuit and Al Areen to Juffair, and the airport on the other end. I didn’t have time to shop, however, Bahrain’s famous Souk and Bab Al Bahrain are only a short walk away and Bahrain City Centre and Seef Mall, a 10 minute drive.Again, this being a business trip, I didn’t have the opportunity to enjoy all the facilities at the hotel like all the restaurants and lounges, but enjoyed a quick breakfast both mornings at Selections, the all-day dining where staff were very attentive offering coffee and tea and asking if you wanted something from the egg station. I find that an added plus when you don’t have to queue up to order eggs. I also manage to utilise my voucher at Downtown one evening where I enjoyed a cocktail and snack while catching up on my emails. I have, however, enjoyed on previous trips to Bahrain, Medzo’s and Legendz Steak House, the latter having a great reputation around town as the best steaks on the island as my friends have indicated.Sadly, I also didn’t have any time to try the spa but hope I can on another visit, but I did make it to the Regency Health Club one morning. The fitness centre is equipped with state-of-the-art machines that I am used to at my own club, so knew how to use them and do my usual al routine.The one thing most important for me, and I think for a lot of guest at any stay at any hotel, is the people/staff. Having checked out early morning, I realised later in the day that I had left my passport and other personal items in the room safe. I called the hotel and by the time I reached, the guest relations was greeting me with a parcel with all the items safely back in my hands. I was extremely impressed and mostly – grateful! InterContinental Regency Bahrain has spacious rooms, a convenient location and good amenities for both the business and leisure traveller.
By Kim Thomson
