**Helnan Royal Palestine: Alexandria's Luxurious Oasis Awaits**
Helnan Royal Palestine: Alexandria - More Than Just a Hotel, It's a Vibe (And Here's Why You NEED to Book!)
Okay, so I just spent a week at the Helnan Royal Palestine in Alexandria, the "Luxurious Oasis" they call it. And, honestly? They're not wrong. But let me tell you, my experience wasn't some perfectly curated Instagram post. It was messy, delightful, and full of those little human moments that make a trip truly memorable. Let's dive in, shall we?
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag, But With Heart
Right off the bat, let's get real. Accessibility is important. The hotel aims to be accessible, but it's a bit of a mixed bag. While the elevator is thankfully swift, a lot of the "details" are a little lacking when it comes to accessibility. If you have mobility issues, call ahead and ask specific questions about the room you're getting and how easy it is to get to the pool. (Pro-tip: Always call and confirm. Don't trust just the website!)
The Vibe: Luxurious, But Not Stuffy. Mostly.
The Helnan Royal Palestine is grand. Seriously, the lobby is HUGE, with soaring ceilings and enough marble to make you dizzy. Think old-school glamour, a bit of art deco, and a whole lot of, well, history. Built way back in the day, it's hosted everyone from presidents to movie stars. I expected it to be stuffy, but it wasn't! Mostly… The grandeur is balanced with a relaxed atmosphere. (Though I did feel a tad underdressed in my t-shirt and shorts for dinner one night. Oops!)
Cleanliness & Safety: Feeling Secure in a Crazy World!
Okay, this is important, especially after the last few years. The Helnan Palestine gets it. They were serious about cleanliness and safety. Hand sanitizer was everywhere. Staff wore masks, and I saw them religiously disinfecting common areas. They emphasized hygiene protocols and had anti-viral cleaning products; just the peace of mind was worth its weight in gold. Did I feel completely safe the whole time? Yes, and for someone who is normally very anxious, that was HUGE.
Okay. Let's Talk Food. Because, Seriously…
- Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: This is where the Hotel shines! A full array of international and local cuisine. The breakfast buffet was amazing! Imagine: Asian breakfast, International Cuisine, and Western Breakfast. The spread was… overwhelming, in a good way. I'm talking fresh fruit, pastries that melted in your mouth, and enough options to satisfy even my perpetually indecisive self. The coffee shop was perfect for a quick pick-me-up, and the poolside bar was a lifesaver during those scorching afternoon. And that soup in the restaurant? Don't ask me what it was, but I ordered it every single night. Seriously, the food alone is worth the trip.
- Room Service: Of course they have it! A 24-hour offering is essential when you’re indulging in a stay like that.
The Rooms: Comfort Meets Classic Charm
My room? Spacious. Comfortable. And with a view of the Mediterranean that legitimately took my breath away. Sure, things like the internet access, Internet [LAN], and internet access – wireless were all working and were free, but let's talk about the important stuff: the bed was insanely comfy, and the air conditioning was a lifesaver. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!. The little touches, like the robes, slippers, and complimentary tea/coffee, made it feel extra special. The blackout curtains were a godsend for sleeping in.
Things to do… Or, How I Spent Most of My Time:
- Swimming Pool: (Outdoor, with a view) - Do yourself a HUGE favor and spend a day poolside. The pool is HUGE, and the views of the sea are just… chef's kiss. I spent one afternoon just floating around, staring at the sky, and feeling all my worries melt away. The Poolside bar - they serve cold drinks and snacks; what else could you want?
- Spa: Okay, so I'm not usually a spa person. But, I figured "when in Rome…". I went totally indulgent and got a full body scrub, followed by a body wrap. Total bliss. Pure, unadulterated bliss. The masseuse was amazing. Professional-grade sanitizing services seemed to be on point; I felt completely relaxed and safe during the spa.
- Fitness Center: Ah, yes, the dreaded fitness center. It's there if you want it. I, uh, mostly just walked past it.
- Sauna/Steamroom: They've got these too! But honestly, after the spa treatment, I was all saunad out.
Services and Conveniences: Making Life Easier (and Lounging More Enjoyable)
- Concierge: Super helpful! From booking taxis to recommending restaurants (and even scoring me a last-minute reservation), they were lifesavers.
- Daily housekeeping: Everything was spotlessly clean.
- Cash withdrawal, Currency Exchange, and a Convenience Store: All the necessities, right at your fingertips.
- Facilities for disabled guests: The hotel has tried to accommodate accessibility needs.
What Could Be Better (Because Nothing's Perfect)
- The Internet: While it was working, the internet speeds sometimes lagged.
- Maybe a bit more personality? While the staff are helpful, the hotel could benefit from even more warmth and personalized service.
For the Kids/Family Friendly
- Babysitting service, Family/child friendly: There are enough facilities to cater to families.
Getting Around
- Airport Transfer: Easy; they'll arrange everything.
- Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Valet parking: Easy to get around by car.
- Taxi service: Easy to get around by taxi.
My Honest Take: Is Helnan Royal Palestine Worth It?
HECK. YES.
It's not just a hotel; it's an experience. It's a chance to unwind, indulge, and soak up the charm of Alexandria. The minor imperfections are easily forgiven. It's a place where you can feel like you've stepped back in time while still enjoying modern comforts. It's got that perfect balance of luxury and history, offering a memorable stay.
My Offer (Because You Deserve It!)
Tired of the same old vacation? Craving a getaway that's both luxurious and historically rich? Book your stay at the Helnan Royal Palestine in Alexandria today and receive a complimentary afternoon tea for two (because, let's be honest, you deserve those pastries!). Plus, you'll get 10% off any spa treatment because you should treat yourself! Click here to book now. (I'm not actually selling anything, but you can find the hotel online and this will give you the vibe)
Pro-Tip: Book a room with a sea view. Trust me. You won't regret it.
Malaga Hotel, Atripalda: Italy's Hidden Gem (Luxury Stay Awaits!)
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your polished, perfectly-scheduled travel brochure. This is ME, trying to experience the Helnan Royal Palestine in Alexandria, Egypt, and honestly, probably failing spectacularly, but hopefully having a bloody good time along the way.
Day 1: Arrival - Or, "How I Almost Starved to Death in a Beautiful Hotel Lobby"
Morning (7:00 AM, Cairo Airport - oh god, still bleary-eyed): Okay, so the flight was… well, let's just say I befriended the entire snack cart. Smuggled a mini-bagel - a victory! After a bumpy landing at Cairo, the transfer to Alexandria was… eventful. The driver, bless his heart, thought the highway was a suggestion box – a wild, honking, chaotic suggestion box. He kept waving and chatting up every taxi driver like it was a big reunion and then, when we arrived at the Helnan Royal Palestine, I literally tripped over my own feet and landed on a potted palm. Dignified, I tell you, dignified.
Mid-Morning (9:00 AM - Lobby of Dreams… of Food): The hotel. Oh. My. God. The lobby! It's like something out of a classic movie, all soaring ceilings, marble floors, and enough chandeliers to light a small city. Felt like a princess, until… I realized I was starving. Really, really starving. I tried to find the breakfast buffet (because, priorities), but apparently, I was too early. Panic set in. I'm not proud to admit I wandered the lobby, sniffing at empty pastry displays, and contemplating the existential dread of an empty stomach.
Late Morning (10:00 AM – Breakfast, or the Lack Thereof): Finally, breakfast! Sort of. The buffet wasn't quite the grand spread I'd anticipated. Overcooked eggs, questionable "sausage" (I think…). But the fresh juice! OMG, the fresh juice. That orange juice saved my soul. I inhaled three glasses, then attacked the bread basket like a rabid… well, a very hungry traveler.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - Beach Fronts): After a nap (necessary, after that breakfast drama), I decided to hit the beach. The hotel has its own private beach (because, exclusivity). It's beautiful, let me tell you, the Mediterranean Sea is beautiful in all its glory. I went for a walk in the sand, and then, I sat down and just stared at the water for an hour.
Evening (7:00 PM – Dinner at the Hotel's main restaurant): Decided to have dinner at the hotel's main restaurant, as suggested to be the best restaurant. I'm not sure if I had a bad day, but sadly my meal was not as good as I expected. The music was a bit too loud, and the service was a bit slow, which made me annoyed. I left more annoyed than satisfied.
Day 2: Alexandria Exploration - Or "Lost in Translation and Loving It"
Morning (9:00 AM - The Alexandria Library): The Bibliotheca Alexandrina. Seriously, go. Just go. It's a mind-blowing architectural masterpiece, a modern wonder built on the site of its ancient predecessor (and, you know, the source of some of history's most epic knowledge). I wandered the reading rooms, feeling a frisson of intellectual awe, and then promptly got lost. Which, honestly, was the best part. I love getting lost in a library!
Late Morning (11:00 AM – Exploring the city): After that, I decided to explore the streets of Alexandria. I wasn't too hopeful, but I was pleasantly surprised. The city is full of life, it makes you love life. I got to know a lot about the city's history.
Afternoon (1:00 PM – lunch at the Restaurant): I had lunch at the restaurant I found in the morning and then decided to visit the hotel's spa.
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM – A Spa): Oh wow, the spa. It was pretty darn amazing. Had a massage, which was much needed after all the sightseeing and the mental stress. My only complaint? The masseuse kept trying to upsell me on something called a "fish pedicure." I politely declined, but she kept insisting. She was very persistent, but I am glad that I said no. It was pretty odd!
Evening (7:00 PM – Restaurant): Ended the day with a second dinner at the hotel's restaurant. I also noticed that the table service was good, which made me want a good mood.
Day 3: Final Day and Departure - Or "I'm Coming Back!"
Morning (9:00 AM - The Citadel of Qaitbay): The Citadel. This medieval fortress is a must-see. The views are stunning, the history is fascinating (and a bit bloody - always a plus!), and the wind whipping off the sea is invigorating. I had to take a photo for my girlfriend, who wanted to come with me.
Afternoon (1:00 PM – Exploring the gardens): I spent the afternoon exploring the hotel's gardens. I sat near the swimming pool reading a book in peace.
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - Packing and Farewell Tea): Sadly, it's time to pack. I’m currently in my room doing some last minute packing. Then I plan, to have some tea. That's when I thought about how I wish I could stay.
Departure (5:00 PM - Farewell, and See You Soon Alexandria): Saying goodbye to Alexandria felt surprisingly emotional. This trip, despite (and maybe because of) the hiccups, was an experience. A beautiful, chaotic, delicious, and occasionally frustrating experience. I feel like I've actually lived something. And you know what? I'm already planning my return. Helnan Royal Palestine, you glorious, slightly flawed, and utterly unforgettable place, I'll be back, eventually… maybe with a better grasp of the breakfast buffet situation next time. And maybe, just maybe, I'll try that fish pedicure. Probably not. But maybe.
Okay, So, The Helnan Royal Palestine… Is It Actually Luxurious? Because, You Know, Egyptians Can Be… Enthusiastic.
Alright, alright, let's get this out of the way. Luxurious? Well... it *tries*. The bones are definitely there. Think grand old dame who's had a few… facelifts. The lobby? Stunning. Marble everywhere, chandeliers the size of small cars. I nearly tripped over my own feet in the lobby, just gawking! But... and there's always a but, isn't there? The 'enthusiasm' you mentioned? Yeah, it's present. Some things are immaculate, others... less so. Like, the view. Spectacular. Across the Mediterranean. Breathtaking. But then the window cleaners came… and yikes. Let's just say their definition of "clean" wasn’t mine. So, luxury? Earning Points... on the way. It's definitely aiming for it, and when it hits, it *hits*.
What's the Deal with the Rooms? Are They Actually Liveable? (And Do They Have Actual Hot Water?)
Rooms are… a mixed bag. My first room? Let’s just say I did *not* jump for joy when I opened the door. It felt… a little tired. The carpet was, well, let's call it "vintage". And the air conditioning sounded like a jet engine taking off. The hot water, blessedly, *did* exist, after a solid five minutes of running the tap and muttering under my breath. I actually spent a good hour the first day just *checking* the hot water – a crucial life skill, apparently. But the second room? Completely different! More modern, better view, A/C that was actually bearable. So, yeah, it's a gamble. Ask for a room on a higher floor, away from the street if you are sensitive to noise, and check the water *immediately*. Consider it part of the adventure!
The Food! Tell Me About The Food! (I'm a Foodie, Essentially)
Okay, the food. The *food* is a whole separate chapter in the Helnan Royal Palestine saga. Breakfast? A glorious, chaotic buffet. Think mountains of pastries, questionable sausages (honestly, I stuck to the omelets), and the most amazing fresh bread I've had in my life. Seriously, the bread alone is worth the trip. There was even a guy making freshly prepared falafel. Lunch… well, again, it's buffet. Sometimes it's great! Other times… let's just say I ate a lot of hummus. The a la carte restaurants? Hit or miss. One night, I had the *most* incredible seafood. Another night? I ordered the chicken and it was, charitably, dry. The trick is to be adventurous, embrace the unexpected, and maybe pack some emergency snacks. And don't be afraid to ask for your food to be prepared freshly, especially if requesting something specific.
How's the Service? Are the Staff Friendly?
The staff? Generally, yes. Overwhelmingly, yes. They are absolutely lovely, warm, and eager to please – sometimes *too* eager, if that's even a thing. It's Egypt: you should come in with a basic understanding of how things work, because the pace of life is a little more… relaxed shall we say. You'll find someone will always try their best to help you. The front desk staff were extremely attentive! They took a while to get things moving or fixed however, such as the faulty Wi-Fi in the beginning, but really, it turned out great! Just be patient, smile, and learn a few basic Arabic phrases (at least "Shukran" – thank you) and you'll be golden. The service is the heart of the hotel and brings it to life, it really elevates the experience.
What Activities Are There? Besides, You Know, Lounging Around Looking Gorgeous.
Well, besides *that*… though, let's be honest, that's a valid activity! The pool is nice, when it's not overrun with a gaggle of kids (which, honestly, is part of the charm). There's a spa, which I heard good things about (but didn’t actually *go* to - my budget only stretches so far!). You're in Alexandria, for heaven's sake! Explore! Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, and the Citadel of Qaitbay. The hotel can arrange tours, just be prepared for the classic Egyptian negotiating game (which, for a tourist, can be… exhausting). I'd recommend hiring a car service to take you to all the sites, or you could use one of the local ride-sharing apps. The hotel offers a variety of services, such as car rental, and you'll find many local businesses around the area. So, there's plenty to do, trust me, just don't be afraid to get out there!
The Beach! Is The Beach Any Good? (Because I Need Some Serious Beach Time)
Okay, the beach… is a mixed bag. Technically, the hotel *has* beach access, which is a huge plus. The water is okay, but it's not the pristine turquoise of the Red Sea. The sand… well, it's sand. You'll see some vendors selling umbrellas, chairs, and all manner of beachy essentials. The water clarity varies. Sometimes it's pretty clear, other times… not so much. And the wind! *Oh, the wind!* It can whip up something fierce, making it feel chilly even on a sunny day. The beach itself can get quite crowded, especially on weekends. I’d recommend visiting during the week. Overall? It's not the *best* beach in the world, but it's a decent beach, and the proximity is a huge plus. It offers a decent and quick escape. I spent the better part of one afternoon reading and pretending I was a movie star and actually had a pretty great time, even in the face of the whipping wind.
Let's Talk About the Wi-Fi... Because Let's Be Honest, We're All Glued to Our Phones.
Oh, the Wi-Fi. That glorious, unpredictable beast. It's… patchy. Let's just put it that way. In my first room, it was non-existent. Zero, zip, nada. I spent the better part of an hour huddled in the lobby, desperately trying to download a podcast and sending frantic WhatsApp messages. It was… frustrating. When I tried to work from my room the following days, I nearly throw my computer out the window! The staff, bless 'em, tried their best to get it sorted, but it was a constant battle. In the second room though, it was okay.Stay And Relax
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