Corinthia Bab Africa, the only five-star property in Tripoli, is also considered the first “international” hotel in Libya.
Soaring 28 storeys high above Tripoli waterfront skyline, the fabulous Corinthia Bab Africa is a masterpiece in itself that has set new standards of excellence on the African continent by way of its spectacular architecture, luxurious interior design, and superior services.
Salvinu Farrell, general manager of the hotel, believes that the Corinthia Bab Africa is perceived as a trendsetter establishing the highest standards which will serve as a benchmark for other hotels. “Occupancy levels have been consistently high with several peak periods with 100 per cent occupancy being attained. Apart from the hotel, we also manage the commercial centre which forms part of the Corinthia Bab Africa Hotel complex,” he said.
Operated by the Maltese-headquartered Corinthia Hotels International, which has a number of hotels under management in major European destinations, the Corinthia Bab Africa is an oasis of luxury that wraps itself around you when you check in. Impressive architecture and some innovative engineering have given all 300 guestrooms and suites panoramic views from highrise windows, over glistening sea or the spreading city. High quality furniture, colourful glass decorations, charming mirrors in beaten metalwork and well-appointed bathrooms with full facilities are above the standard of many European hotels in the five-star category.
The pleasure is increased by the existence of a highly sociable ‘executive club lounge’ in the uppermost reaches of the taller of the two Corinthian Bab Africa towers. Unlike many such ‘executive lounges’ there is an air of thriving activity, with hotel guests busy online, watching television, reading and writing, or simply eating some of the excellent fare that is laid out. Like the rest of the hotel, it is comfortably appointed and the décor is pleasant. The views, of course, are panoramic.
Food is among the Corinthia Bab Africa’s best assets as its chefs seemingly vie to outdo themselves each evening. In the main restaurant, culinary specialties from around the world are displayed to tempt even the most hardened dieter to return to the buffet. Other restaurants are the Italian cuisine Venezia, which is the most casual and serves food throughout the day, the Deep Blue for dining al fresco on the best of fresh-caught Mediterranean fish, and the Fes on the topmost floor, where the opulent ambience evokes old Morocco and the food is just what the doctor ordered for a jaded palate.
The turquoise outdoor swimming-pool is a relief in the warm weather months, but true relaxation is to be had in the Athenaeum Wellness centre, an oasis within an oasis. This is billed as ‘recreation for the body and soul’, which is an accurate assessment of the potential for revitalization in lavish surroundings that recall the best that Leptis Magna’s baths had to offer. One popular aspect of the hotel is the Athenaeum Spa which has been a “magnet” for visitors. Outside membership is restricted for the Spa as it has proved very popular with an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam bath, Turkish hammam, and a variety of treatment for skin and spirit.
According to Farrell, Corinthia is always looking for the right opportunities, in Libya or anywhere else for that matter.