Opened in 2006, the Al Raha Beach is an elongated complex bordering the sea, which cannot be seen from the outside. Once inside, you are greeted by a huge reception area and a carmine and yellow marble floor combined with a brightly coloured thick floral rug. With stained-glass windows on the ceiling reflecting the mosaic on the floor, the warm decor, perhaps a little overwhelming for unaccustomed eyes, offers an insight into the comfort that awaits. On the side of the room is the reception desk and opposite it, the cosy Mozart café with its red armchairs and tempting cakes. Why not stop for a drink in the 'Black Pearl', which, despite its size, manages to maintain its cosy appearance with its appealing lighting, carpeted floor, comfortable blue armchairs, wooden panelling, curtains and picture windows.
Long bench seats run along the sides of the reception and a large picture window at the far end overlooks the terraced complex, on a maximum of 3 different levels.
Classical musical is played across the complex throughout the day. The immaculate swimming pool area spans out towards the sea and includes an overflow pool, a small sloping pool, a large slide, a spray area and an aquatic bar, with shade provided by palm trees both in the water and surrounding it. An area enhanced with water features and fountains also runs along the curved building of the hotel. In addition to the rooms housed in the hotel building, another part consists of a series of villas which are often rented to people for a month or even longer. These villas face the sea and another overflow pool, making it hard to see where the pool ends and the sea begins. Peace and tranquillity are the order of the day here, with deckchairs provided around the lawned pool area for your comfort. There is also an elaborate playground for the children.
Beyond the reception of the large spa on the 3rd floor, you will find a large swimming pool with its own pool bar, a pool for children and a large jacuzzi. A small gym on the floor below gives guests the perfect opportunity to partake in various activities entirely undisturbed, with separate areas for men and women, each with a sauna, a hammam and a jacuzzi. A larger gym on the ground floor offers a host of modern machines.
The children's club is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm for children of 3 to 12 years of age and is held in a colourful, enclosed room with various toys and games. The large blue and black-walled night club has a whole floor to itself but only opens on weekends.
Amy Adejokun
Section editor
