@
saaveraward
How was breakfast handled considering COVID?
Breakfast is served at My Square at Plaza Level (one level above reception), seating available both inside and outside, tables cleaned after each guest and utensils brought anew, sanitiser available on each table. Breakfast times are 0630 to 1100, I have visited at almost any possible time and never had to wait to be seated, even in popular times but that being said the hotel was not very busy. The food is mostly laid out behind plexiglass shields with holes big enough for plates to pass - this applies to the bread section and the cold cuts / salads / etc. section, the warm food / live cooking section is open however there is a barrier line beyond which you are not allowed to go. No self-service allowed, food is given away by stuff who wears masks and gloves. Eggs of all types are made-to-order and then brought to your table, liquids are also ordered to the waiters and brought to your table.
Are there "nice" walks around the property, like can you walk along the Creek or to the Mall, or is it truly isolated in a business complex?
"Nice" not really, this is a business complex, which is however mostly dead even during weekdays, and is also surrounded by other skyscrapers on the other side of the moderately busy road. You may walk to the Creek, which is very close to the hotel, as well as to the Dubai Mall, which is roughly 20 minutes away. There are also a few eating outlets around, several cafes and a supermarket for basic stuff.
Any nightlife on/near property?
Not interested in nightlife so cannot say. There is PizzaExpress Live on-site, which is supposed to feature live music, but cannot say whether it actually does. As said above, the area is mostly dead, even during daytime.
Pleased with your stay? From what I'm reading, this looks like a high-quality DT. Not sure if WA DIFC is worth 3x the price if both are giving suite upgrades to Diamonds.
Very much, for me this was excellent value, price was sub-€100 incl. taxes booked 36 hours before arrival, as HH Diamond I was upgraded two categories to Burj Khalifa view on 11th floor. The hotel still feels brand new, probably one of the best stays I have ever had in a DoubleTree (the only other comparable experience I have had was at DoubleTree Tower of London).