Back again for the first time since my last stay in the post above. Feedback:

• Now that Sheraton migrated to the Marriott platform, I noticed a pre-arrival two-category upgrade in the Marriott app from a Deluxe City-View Room to a Club Sea-View Room. Upon arrival at the hotel, I was told that I was upgraded to a Club Room and when I asked about any suites being available, I was told that none were. I checked the app when up in my room and guess what... every room category is available for the duration of my stay. Side note: my colleague, who is a Platinum Premier Elite, was bumped up to a Junior Suite.
• Wi-fi is very fast. Plat benefits at check-in are 1000 welcome points OR breakfast at the main restaurant, Al Hubara.
• 80s design is still firmly in place; I've found out that the renovation was in fact designed to restore the 80s feel so this is very much intentional. Hope you like time travel!
• My room is decent - spacious enough with a split-level design with the sleeping area above and a two-seat seating area down two steps. King-sized bed, strong A/C, balcony furnished with two chairs and a bathroom with tub, separate shower, toilet and bidet. Toiletries are, surprisingly, the icky Shine stuff; surprised they're still here, especially when considering the hotel's 'Grand' designation.
• Executive Lounge is excellent - very spacious with plenty of seating. Food at happy hour [6-8 PM] is very extensive - salads, hors d'oeuvres, sushi, hot dishes [with a few vegetarian-friendly options - yay!] and dessert. You can effortlessly build yourself a full meal here. Alcohol consists of a few liquors and red/white wine.

So far, so good aside from the sneaky upgrade thing at check-in. While it can be argued that an upgrade is an upgrade, I can't stand it when hotel staff tell you something erroneous/that can so easily be proven otherwise. Sigh.

khabah