Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa

The Sofitel doesn't look like anything spectacular from the outside, but once inside guests are instantly enveloped into a wonderfully serene, Polynesian-themed environment. Opened in 2013, the resort remains close to flawless throughout -- its South Pacific design motifs blend tastefully with Sofitel's typically chic contemporary design, and includes 24 unique "vertical gardens" featuring a staggering 170 different types of plant. Although a vast and elegantly sprawling complex, the resort has a genuine commitment to eco-friendly policies, including solar panels, energy-saving systems, and extensive recycling. Although removed from many of Dubai's major attractions, the resort attracts plenty of tourists -- families and couples alike -- looking for a glamorous self-contained seaside retreat.

The hotel is one of several large resort hotels set on the Palm Jumeirah -- one of two of Dubai's palm-shaped artificial archipelagos that stretch out into the Arabian Gulf. Located on Palm Jumeirah's East Crescent, one side of the hotel is the beachfront and the other is the single access road overlooking open sea. There's little to explore in the immediate area in the way of tourist attractions, however the Aquaventure Waterpark is a few minutes' drive away along the crescent. The Mall of the Emirates is 15 minute away by car, while Dubai International Airport takes a minimum of half an hour to reach. 

The Sofitel's Polynesian-themed interiors continue through its 361 rooms, which feature natural dark-wood furnishings, rustic tiled floors, and splashes of colorful fabrics and artwork. The effect is fresh and unfussy, though with a sleek and luxurious feel. All rooms come with flat-screen TVs, free fast Wi-Fi, and high-end Bose Wave audio systems, and minibars are fully stocked with spirits, soft drinks, and snacks. All rooms come with furnished balconies -- most with sea views -- while Villas have roof terraces with private pools. Contemporary travertine bathrooms have frosted-glass paneling, large walk-in rainfall showers, bathtubs, and Lanvin or Hermes bath products. 

The hotel features an impressive 14 restaurants, lounges, and bars in all -- many with outdoor terraces. A wide variety of options are on offer, including Chinese, French, and Italian options. The Habano Cigar Lounge provides cigar aficionados an intimate setting to indulge, while the Maui Beach Bar serves cocktails to guests on couches under shaded canopies. The large, landscaped swimming pool includes a waterslide and is surrounded by lounge chars with poolside drink service, while guests can also take a dip off the hotel's less-inviting private beach. The SO Spa is a particularly pleasant space with excellent facilities including indoor and outdoor pools, couples' hot tubs, a Turkish Bath, and a sauna together with the usual menu of massage and beauty treatments. The hotel's jetty also means boating trips, while two tennis courts and a well-equipped gym provide plenty of exercise opportunities.