Don't worry that the exterior of this hotel is a little unsightly - it wasn't built for Luabay, which explains why the outside is not as cool as the inside. The lobby is a bit on the small side but is extremely welcoming and greets you with soft chill-out music to get you in the right frame of mind for your stay. The reception desk to the left is manned by polite, English-speaking staff that goes to great lengths to meet your needs. In the centre of the hall is a staircase up to the first floor while behind it is a set of lifts which always arrive swiftly. Otherwise there is just a couple of couches and armchairs in which to repose and information points on renting cars, excursions etc. Outside, at the back of the hotel, is the pool area which comprises just one main pool plus another for children. It is a calm space, with stylish loungers and is surrounded by trees and greenery in an attempt to block the view of the encircling buildings. Close by is a small kids playground. The hotel has a small, basic spa centre which offers a few massages, wraps and facial treatments and also has a simple fitness room. Other sporting facilities include a squash court which was due to be redone, ping pong tables and pool tables as well as a games room and giant chess. This latter is right next to the outdoor chill-out area, a sleek new space where you can enjoy a drink or snack while relaxing to ambient music.
While children are very welcome and will be sure to enjoy the Luabay, they are not the main target audience of the hotel. There is a full entertainment programme for adults including such activities as yoga, shuffleboard and ping pong competitions and bingo. Then, later on in the evening, after the disco, there is a show (magic or flamenco dancing for example, followed by another chance to strut your stuff on the dance floor. During the school holidays however additional activities are put on especially for kids. Other amenities at the hotel include an internet room where you can either bring your laptop or log on to one of the PCs (both options are chargeable), a shop selling supplies and there is also a solarium above the lobby bar. All areas of the hotel which have been renovated since Luabay took over are all quite stylish and contemporary and even those which haven't been are in good condition. Getting to your room is simple and quick and the hotel just seems to tick over quite nicely.
Amy Adejokun
Section editor
