Originally Posted by
Carolina2Cali
I haven't been contacted yet but I'm expecting an email tomorrow letting me know this property has been pushed out to February 15. How they just determined this a couple days before opening is beyond me. There goes my bonus 500 points and 15th brand explorer stamp. Any recs for Park versus Grand if I'm given an option? They were both the same price when I booked. Now park is 100 dollars more.
By the way, had used a suite upgrade award. I noticed the grand has two suite types. Anyone tried both? I'm a party of one, solo. Prefer views or amenities over space
The Grand has a beachy feel. The PH is in a tower block. I've done plenty of nights in both, but the Grand is a much more relaxed feel - and has a lounge which puts on a fair evening offering, if that matters to you.
PH breakfast is a more formal affair, but not quite as high end offering of food as it was years ago. GH breakfast is in the mexican themed place - so usual stuff but an offering of huevos rancheros, etc. from the fresh stations. PH is white linen table cloths but still largely buffet based for food.
There's a beach at the GH, and a couple of options for bars. No beach at PH (obviously) and AFAIK the only bar is in the japanese restaurant on the roof - and it really doesn't feel much like a bar when it's busy with dining guests.
That japanese place at the PH is really, really good. Very spenny, though.
PH is right next to Souq Waqif, if you fancy walking around there. Few bars, lots of restaurants. PH is much closer to the airport.
GH is just over the road from Lagoona Mall, which offers... well, a large mall.
Ultimately the more casual GH suits me better, but others will absolutely prefer the more formal 'polished' PH service.
Suites definitely higher end with regard to the fixtures and fittings at the PH. GH suites look like any other GH suite - but they send up a bottle of wine and some jars of dates and nuts and stuff. PH send fruit and chocolate.