Travelbeat Editorial Review GOLDEN TULIP GRAND PALACE HOTEL Amman, Jordan Story and photos by Kerry Hennigan Located in the Shumesani district of Amman, the Golden Tulip Grand Palace Hotel provides guaranteed four-star quality and service for visitors to the Jordanian capital. In the Middle East generally hotel facilities sometimes don't match the exemplary level of hospitality for which this part of the world is famous. It may be only little things - like shabby decorating details, poorly functioning equipment, or just plain bad design - that spoil the experience of a property for the discerning guest. Certainly when far from home, not having to worry about such hiccups makes for a happier stay, whether it be for business or pleasure. The Golden Tulip Grand Palace Hotel, a member of the Golden Tulip Hospitality Group of hotels, inns and resorts, promises "international standards, local flavours" - a promise it unobtrusively fulfils. From the welcome you receive at the front door (after passing through the airport style security system) to the attention you get from the front desk staff; from the concierge staff that help with your bags to the cheerful waiter in the hotel restaurant who greets you like an old friend - all do their bit to make your stay memorable. The rooms vary in size and design, but offer similar smart, comfortable décor provided by the Hotel Leisure & Design Co of Holland, and in some cases good views over the surrounding district on Queen Alya Street, including the Royal Culture Centre, Sports City and the site of what will be the new Amman Stock Market. Guest rooms come complete with satellite television, making it possible to keep up with news in a variety of languages beamed from Europe and all over the Middle East. Movie channels in various languages pretty much guarantee you'll find something to watch if spending a relaxing night in after a busy day sightseeing amongst Amman's many historical and cultural attractions. Guests who feel the need for exercise in addition to climbing up and down the streets of some of Amman's many hills can opt for the pool and gym located next door at the Regency Palace Hotel. These facilities are available to Golden Tulip Grand Palace customers by arrangement through the Golden Tulip reception desk. The hotel also has a gift shop in the lobby and a tour company on site - Lawrence Tours (no prizes for guessing the inspiration for the name!) The business centre located in a small office behind the 24 hour reception desk is also a bonus here, with computing and internet facilities readily available day and night. The Golden Tulip Grand Palace is very popular with tour groups, who are particularly evident each morning at the breakfast buffet in the restaurant. Daily breakfast can be included in the room tariff and is a good way to start the day. Lunch and dinner are also served here, but for those who prefer it, room service is available 24 hours. The author stayed at the Golden Tulip Grand Palace on three occasions when recently in Jordan, in three rooms of different design or aspect, but providing identical comfort and quality and at rates that are very reasonable for this class of property. We certainly wouldn't hesitate to make a return visit - Inshallah. For more information contact: www.goldentulip.com Back to Front Page