Got the t-shirt: Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah

Driving up to Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah was something I’ll never forget. Looking like a life-sized sandcastle complete with turrets, the hotel made my jaw physically drop. As I got closer, I could smell the freshly mown lawn, hear the trickling of fountains and see the luscious flora in full bloom. The door from my air-conditioned private transfer was opened by a porter, I felt the sun on my skin and I knew I had arrived somewhere very special.
 
Walking into the lobby, my eyes lit up both with joy and from the light bouncing off the ornate crystal chandeliers and dancing across the stained-glass ceiling of the lobby lounge Peacock Alley. And then, I saw it. The main focal point of each Waldorf Astoria is a stunning clock, with this hotel no different. Designed by British-based clockmakers Smith of Derby, this artistic masterpiece stands proud, complete with seating all around the base. It took eight months to create from start to finish and symbolises the fact that Waldorf Astoria as a brand leaves no luxury stone unturned, even the minutest detail is covered. 
 
The check-in process was very quick and easy and before I knew it, it was time to head up to my room for the night. Just a swipe of a key card, a turn of the handle and my home away from home was mine to luxuriate in, even if it was just for 24-hours.

Having scoured the website looking at pictures of the hotel, I had a pretty good idea on to expect, and my anticipation was high. My expectations were exceeded as soon as I stepped into the room. Upon entering I was met by the most lavish black marble bathroom that I’ve ever seen. If I was staying for longer, I would’ve definitely taken full advantage of the deep-soaking tub. Across from here, there was a large walk in wardrobe complete with a dressing table and robes hanging up, embroidered with the famous hotel logo.
 
After exploring the bathroom and walk-in wardrobe I then walked down a small hallway which led to an open-plan living room and bedroom. At one end was a king-size bed that I can testify was very comfortable and I had a brilliant night’s sleep.  Storage certainly isn’t an issue here as even if I was here for a month I would be covered.
  
However, the piece de resistance is unquestionable the magnificent views of the Arabian Gulf. One step onto the balcony was all it took to make me never want to leave. The feeling of the holiday heat is indescribable, and the glorious vistas are a real sight to behold. The balcony stretched the whole length of the room and as the accommodation was longer than it was wide - it made for quite the USP. I spent a good portion of the afternoon relaxing on the lounger, trying to soak up all the sun I possibly could, and wishing that I wasn’t checking out the following day.

With 10 restaurants housed within the hotel, and only 24-hours, I knew I had to make my dinner choice count. The Japanese-eatery UMI caught my eye with its sleek interiors and mouth-watering menu on display outside of the establishment. After being greeted and seated at my table, I could truly appreciate UMI for what it was… and that was nothing less than five-star. To my left I could see parties of guests enjoying what looked like delicious fare, with attentive staff catering to their every whim and to my right was the Japanese gardens and the balcony that overlooked the emirate.
   
I decided to go for the tasting menu so I could sample a little bit of everything on offer and I was transported to Toyko, Kyoto and Osaka all in one meal. Wasabi rock shrimp, teriyaki chicken skewers, miso soup… the list goes on and on of what I had, and every bite was incredible. The main course was cooked right in front of me, too. Aromas of wagyu beef and rich soup filled the air as the dish was bubbling away. The food was then served and I devoured it pretty quickly. The wagyu beef was just how it should be; an incredibly tender meat that melted in my mouth and if I could have had more, I would.