Hotel insider: Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa

Checking into the Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa.

A bedroom suite at the Radisson Blu. Courtesy Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront
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The welcome

Landing at Cape Town International Airport, I’m whisked away by an efficient hotel pickup. The journey skirts Cape Town proper, taking in a majestic view of Table Mountain. Arriving at Radisson Blu after a 30-minute drive, I’m greeted by the pleasant smell of the ocean and welcoming staff happy to help with check-in. The lobby is spartan, so I wander through to the terrace area to explore some more.

The neighbourhood

Located between the Green Point Stadium, which was rebuilt for the 2010 Fifa World Cup, and the Atlantic Ocean, the property is close enough to the bustle of central Cape Town but far enough for a retreat. It’s within easy walking distance of the V&A Waterfront, with its plethora of attractions. Hotel shuttles are available to and from the city. Be sure to walk up Long Street, exploring shops as you go and stopping at one of the many restaurants with kerbside seating to enjoy a view of city life as it goes by.

The scene

Mornings feel businesslike, but after 5pm, the atmosphere is more relaxed.

The room

The room is practical, with all the usual modern amenities, including a very comfortable bed, free Wi-Fi, ample space and a more-than-adequate bathroom. It’s a great base for those who will be out exploring Cape Town instead of watching television in the room. Book a sea-facing room for a panoramic treat that you or your Facebook friends won’t forget. Lounge on the private balcony and enjoy the view of Table Bay.

The service

Friendly staff with wide smiles greet you at every corner. With a helpful attitude, questions are quickly answered and arrangements for transport or the best directions to any given destination are quickly given – all in a uniquely relaxed and friendly African manner.

The food

There are plenty of options to eat fresh produce sourced from local suppliers and producers in the hotel. Tabago’s Restaurant offers a wide variety of local and global dishes. The local Malay curry (from 110 South African rand [Dh34]) is a must-try. If the weather is right, be sure to enjoy a view of the Atlantic and dine on the terrace. As the sun sets late during the current summer months, this is also a popular spot for Capetonians.

Loved

Waking up at sunrise and heading downstairs, I’m greeted by a complimentary coffee-and-tea stand available before the breakfast buffet opens. Grab a cup of your choice and head out onto the pier overlooking a private marina and watch the sun rise against the backdrop of Table Mountain. Keep one eye on the water, as migrating whales often pass within a stone’s throw of the marina.

Hated

The hotel is set up to accommodate up to 200 people in its two meeting rooms, which means that I’m often greeted by a small crowd of people conversing in the lobby while entering or exiting.

The verdict

A great hotel that delivers on what it promises. It offers a calm retreat in close proximity to some of the major Cape Town attractions.

The bottom line

Rooms at the Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa (www.radissonblu.com/hotel-capetown; 0027 21441 3000) start from 3,960 rand [Dh1,241] per night, including taxes.

arobertson@thenational.ae

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