Ah, Dubai: A Journey Through Rove City Walk
Ah, Dubai! The air buzzed with excitement as I made my grand entrance into Rove City Walk. This gem is not just a hotel; it’s an artful oasis gleaming with creativity and charisma. I had flown in from Delhi, where the chaos of the airport felt more like an exhilarating sway than an inconvenience. Yet, the real magic began at Atithya, an airport hospitality service that treated me like royalty — I mean literal royalty. Think of it as a blend of Indian tradition with modern flair. I was whisked away in a plush buggy, feeling like I was the protagonist in my very own travel fairy-tale.
Upon arrival at the Encalm Lounge, the world outside faded into an ethereal silence. The serene environment wrapped around me like a gentle embrace. The calming earth tones and warm lighting whispered, “Stay a while!” A friendly attendant swooped in, bearing treasures of culinary delights: freshly brewed masala chai and an array of mouth-watering snacks. I savoured every bite, feeling nourished for the adventure that lay ahead.
Vibrancy at Rove
Stepping into Rove City Walk was like entering a vibrant gallery where every corner told a story. The reception area throbbed with energy, a buzzing hub of creativity that took my breath away. Art is interwoven into the fabric of this place — digital murals, chic furniture, and hints of local culture peeked out from everywhere. It wasn’t just a lobby; it was a living canvas, inviting me to explore each nook in search of my perfect photo op for Instagram.
Check-in was a breeze, my friendly receptionist greeting me with the warmth of a long-lost friend. With strategic positioning in Downtown Dubai, I felt the city pulse beneath me. My room? A cosy cocoon bathed in trendy decor and adorned with artworks that echoed the vibrant spirit of Dubai. Peering out the window at the iconic Burj Khalifa, the skyscraper stood like a sentinel overseeing my journey. The comfort of my room was just the beginning at Rove. The hotel was brimming with amenities that felt more like a lifestyle than services.
The 24-hour gym? A blessing for my inner fitness enthusiast. The inviting pool? An oasis where my worries floated away with each splash. Not to mention the self-service Laundromat—practicality meets convenience at its finest. Rove’s Daily hangout, a place where I felt equally at home dining in or grabbing a bite, quickly became my go-to for refuelling. With flavours inspired by global cuisine, each dish was mouth-watering, keeping my taste buds dancing while I mingled with fellow travellers.
The Exploration Begins
The real joy of staying at Rove City Walk was its unbeatable location. A complimentary shuttle made hopping to attractions a cinch. My first stop? The sparkling expanse of Jumeirah Beach, where the waves crashed like the city’s spirit — vibrant and alive. I then ventured to the opulent Dubai Mall, where the scale and luxury left me awestruck. The aquarium teemed with vibrant marine life, and the Dubai Fountain show mesmerized me — water, lights, and music swirling in a dance that pulled at my heartstrings.
Then there was City Walk, an urban playground filled with striking street art. I found myself lost in its colours, engaging with the local scene. I even encountered the enchanting Green Planet, an indoor rainforest that transported me into an exotic realm. Each experience was a brushstroke on the canvas of my Dubai adventure, painting memories that would last a lifetime.
A Bittersweet Departure
As my memorable journey neared its end, the loveliness of a late check-out lingered over me like a gentle goodbye hug. I decided to indulge in one last experience at the Plaza Premium Lounge at the airport. Here, as I nested into plush seating and enjoyed gourmet snacks, my heart danced with gratitude. The ambiance wrapped around me like a soft cashmere sweater, cradling reflections of my wondrous escape.
When the time came to bid farewell to Dubai, I took a final glimpse of the skyline. Rove City Walk had gifted me not just a room but an experience infused with warmth and artistry. Each moment spent there created a tapestry of memories, reminding me why I adore unravelling the world’s tales, one vibrant stay at a time.
(Awarded the “Best food writer in the country” by the Indian culinary forum, WACS and the Ministry of Tourism, Rupali Dean writes on food and travel.)
