Fujairah has always been a delightful destination. We have fallen in love with the rugged Hajar mountains and the pristine sands that we make it a point to visit at least once a year. So, on another glorious sunny weekend in the desert, when the temperature soared to 40 degrees Celsius, Ed and I couldn't be happier that we were in a bus heading to the beautiful east coast where the summer weather is much friendlier.
During our past trips, Ed and I guiltlessly wasted our days unwinding in beach resorts. We would go home knowing that we have a lot more to discover in the city; hence I instantly embraced the invitation to stay at Aparthotel Adagio Fujairah although it meant I must squeeze it in my one and only day off!
During our past trips, Ed and I guiltlessly wasted our days unwinding in beach resorts. We would go home knowing that we have a lot more to discover in the city; hence I instantly embraced the invitation to stay at Aparthotel Adagio Fujairah although it meant I must squeeze it in my one and only day off!
Novotel, Ibis and Aparthotel Adagio Fujairah |
The Location
Our two-hour inter-Emirate bus ride ended right in the heart of Fujairah. Aparthotel Adagio is conveniently located in the city's "main vein". We alighted at the nearest bus stop which is merely a block away; so Ed and I happily walked past the empty taxis and reached our home for the weekend by foot.
The Apartment-Hotel
Aparthotel Adagio houses fully-equipped apartments with hotel-style amenities. It is tucked in a high-rise hotel complex together with the contemporary Novotel Fujairah and the budget-friendly Ibis Fujairah.
Our two-hour inter-Emirate bus ride ended right in the heart of Fujairah. Aparthotel Adagio is conveniently located in the city's "main vein". We alighted at the nearest bus stop which is merely a block away; so Ed and I happily walked past the empty taxis and reached our home for the weekend by foot.
The Apartment-Hotel
Aparthotel Adagio houses fully-equipped apartments with hotel-style amenities. It is tucked in a high-rise hotel complex together with the contemporary Novotel Fujairah and the budget-friendly Ibis Fujairah.
Adagio's reception is not as sophisticated as the two other hotels in the building. It is simple and straightforward, but stylishly adorned with paintings and warmly boosted with a service that made us felt like we were welcomed in a luxury property.
Check-in was a breeze. The keycards to our studio aparthotel were handed over to us at 9 in the morning! Ed and I gushed over the unexpected early check-in and at same time amused at how secure the aparthotel is as we took the elevator. A room keycard must be swiped in the elevator to proceed to a floor.
Check-in was a breeze. The keycards to our studio aparthotel were handed over to us at 9 in the morning! Ed and I gushed over the unexpected early check-in and at same time amused at how secure the aparthotel is as we took the elevator. A room keycard must be swiped in the elevator to proceed to a floor.
Aparthotel Adagio Fujairah reception |
the 6th floor hallway adorned with stylish artworks |
The Spacious Studio
Our home for the weekend is a cozy studio located in the 6th floor. It is well-furnished with a fitted kitchen, an airy living and dining area, a comfortable bedroom and a stylish bathroom with a separate tub and shower!
Adagio Aparthotel's studio is very spacious that Ed and I could play hide and seek if we want to! We could have even prepared a home-cooked meal if we stayed for a couple of days. Drifting away from the usual on my only day off is already a blessing, yet I couldn't help but shrug every time I remember that we're only there for a night.
contemporary dining area |
welcome basket for long-staying guests Huge thanks to the staff for surprising us with this goodies even though we're only staying for a night! |
fully equipped kitchen |
the cozy sleep space |
The Hotel Amenities
During our short stay, we ventured out to the adjoining hotels and explored the amenities in the complex. We adore the elegant yet welcoming ambiance at Novotel Fujairah's lobby. It was where we lounged after heavy meals. :)
There's a play area near the cafe which I think is great for families with kids. Parents can relax over a cup of coffee while Angry Birds can keep the tots busy. WiFi which is considered to be a necessity in this day and age is also complimentary. How wonderful is that?
We had a free access to the very inviting outdoor swimming pool, but sad to say, we never got to use the swimwear we packed due to our tight schedule. We also didn't get to spend time in the gym because running in treadmills and vacation aren't really a perfect match for us.
Novotel Fujairah hotel lobby |
cafe, work station, play area |
well equipped gym |
outdoor swimming pool |
The Dining Options
If travel has a partner-in-crime, it would be FOOD! And I'm happy to say that nobody goes hungry in Aparthotel Adagio Fujairah. Other than having a fitted kitchen in the studio, the hotel complex has 7 dining options! I love options!
We enjoyed two hearty breakfasts during our stay; a scrumptious buffet at Flavours restaurant on our first day and a Continental breakfast for two in our room before we checked-out. Both were equally good. I like Flavours because of the huge breakfast spread and the live-cooking station. On the other hand, I like the in-room breakfast because of the privacy and convenience.
We also had a good Friday Brunch in Ibis and a tasteful Indian dinner in Novotel. This I have to share separately! Stay tuned, Foodies! ;)
The Excellent Service
The service was definitely a cherry on top! We were never left untaken care of, be it in the restaurants or in the lobby. I felt the sincerity, and I'm pretty sure it wasn't just because I'm a blogger. The staff offered assistance perfectly on point. They were attentive without being intrusive. I must say that they surely know how to make their guests happy.
buffet breakfast at Flavours |
Continental breakfast for two |
The Nearby Attractions
Novotel, Ibis and Aparthotel Adagio Fujairah hotel complex is a few kilometers away from the attractions that we missed to visit during our past trips in Fujairah. On this recent trip, we were able to see the historic Fujairah Fort up close. The Fujairah Museum is also nearby, but unfortunately it was closed for maintenance that day.
The staff at Aparthotel Adagio Fujairah were kind enough to pre-arrange a boat trip at Fujairah International Marine Club for us. It was a whole new experience that completed our short yet sweet escape in Fujairah.
Fujairah Fort |
the boat trip that enhanced our short yet sweet escape in Fujairah |
We're not done exploring the east coast yet. There are lots of interesting things to see and do. We are just glad to find a place we can call our home away from home and a new set of friends who gave us more reasons to come back.
Location:
Aparthotel Adagio Fujairah
Hamad Bin Abdullah Road
Fujairah, UAE
Contact # (+971)9 223 9888
Website: www.accorhotels.com
How to get there by public bus from Dubai?
One way fare: 25 AED
For current bus schedule, please call RTA's customer service: 800 9090.
Disclaimer: I was invited to stay at Aparthotel Adagio Fujairah.
but rest assured that this blog post is sincerely written and all opinions are my own.