Review: Atlantis The Palm

How did it strike you on arrival?
Dubai's Atlantis looks almost identical to its Bahamian sibling, which is to say: magical. The first hotel to inhabit The Palm Island, it’s situated in the best location. The massive lobby is bustling at any time of day, but take a moment to pause and admire the common space's Dale Chihuly centerpiece that's comprised of more than 600 pieces of blown glass.

Nice. What’s the crowd like?
Large groups of multi-generational travelers from the region, with a few American and European tourists scattered in the mix.

The good stuff: Tell us about your room.
When we were there, many rooms were undergoing renovations and in the process of replacing outdaded taupe and seaform-colored decor with bright whites and pops of blue and orange. There are no bad views here: one side of the property looks out toward the gulf while the other side has stunning views of the city.

We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?
The bed is appropriately plush with a large assortment of pillows.

How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?
The mini-bar was average and pricey, but complimentary bottled water and a daily fruit bowl was appreciated. The room's desk has multiple power outlets—a huge perk if you have an overloaded adapter.

Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
Towels and robes were clean and fluffy, and the renovated bathrooms, outfitted with ShuiQi products, were a huge improvement from their predecessors.

Room service: Worth it?
The room-service burger, made with beef from Atlantis’s own breed of cow, was surprisingly good. Staff went above and beyond to create a comfortable white-clothed dining cart. It wasn’t retrieved until the following morning though.

Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.
The private beach and (many) pools make for relaxing places to wile the day away, but if you want a more interactive experience, don’t skip the waterpark or the Lost Chambers Aquarium, which offers yoga in the mornings.

What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?
Atlantis truly has it all: a massive waterpark, an aquarium, luxury shopping, and more restaurants than you can count on both hands. However, unrenovated rooms are need of updating and the property is far from most Dubai attractions.

Bottom line: worth it, and why?
If you have a herd of kids that you want to keep entertained and happy, there’s nowhere better than Atlantis the Palm.