The Phoenicia Hotel is referred to as the Grande Dame of Beirut for good reason… it is a palace where no luxury or amenity is omitted. Our stay here was spectacular from start to finish.
Arriving weary from the BMI flight, we stepped into a warm breezy climate. We were greeted at Beirut Airport and treated to a smart ‘limo’ to the hotel, a TV screen announced my name as “Mrs Milly Kenny-Ryder” much to our amusement!
Within thirty minutes we were ensconced in the fortress towering over the city. I was gobsmacked by the sudden lavish surroundings: escalators, grand staircases and miles of marble; attentive staff in every corner: concierge, receptionists, waiters, porters, shoe shiners… your every wish is their command.
Our room, a club suite on the sixth floor was extravagant and dramatic. A balcony overlooking the buzzing city and sparkling harbour, an elegant writing desk and chaise longue, a deluxe, very comfortable bed, a large plasma TV screen, and generous wardrobe and storage space.
The bathroom was a sight to behold, clad in posh marble and complete with L’Occitane products (and every other possible toiletry you might require) it offers a high tech shower, giant bath and a separate loo. We spent much time beautifying ourselves in this grandiose boudoir.
Aside from the usual mini bar snacks and drinks, complementary fruit and Lebanese sweet pastries had been left for our enjoyment, we gobbled these gratefully after the flight. Ample information in the room explains the hotel and all its assets: the numerous restaurant options, the luxurious spa with indoor and outdoor pools, the shops and other areas available for guests.
Outside, at the Phoenicia gates we had no trouble finding a taxi, as there is always a queue ready to instantly pick you up and deliver you safely to your destination. Be warned: no one walks in Beirut, taxies are cheap and will usually charge a standard rate to go anywhere in the city (around $10-15).
Our beautiful room provided a fabulously relaxing haven for two of our four nights in Beirut. Soaking in the opulent bath, watching girly DVDs and enjoying a blissful night’s sleep, it was heaven.
Mornings were spent ogling the breakfast display in the Mosaic restaurant. No words can describe the banquet that takes place every morning in the hall at the Phoenicia… every snack, dish and meal you could ever think of is freshly made and on offer here for hotel guests. It took us a good ten minutes to walk round surveying it all before we finally picked our selection of continental treats: the brightest and sweetest squeezed orange juice, flaky and buttery lychee and apricot danishes, the freshest sliced fruit, homemade pancakes… and much, much more. I was astounded by the quality and variety.
At the Phoenicia anything is possible. And though the astonishing décor and grandeur will immediately strike you, it is the wonderful old-fashioned service and friendly, accommodating people here that will leave the lasting impression, ensuring your stay is unforgettable.
Visit the Phoenicia Hotel and book here.
Thoroughly Modern Milly travelled with bmi, British Midland International. British Midland International flies direct from London Heathrow to Beirut offering ten flights per week. Flights are twice daily on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays with a daily service on all other days. Fares are available from £485 return including all taxes and charges. For more information and to book visit www.flybmi.com