Residence Inn by Marriott Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

Everything! My flight landed early in the morning, and I took my luggage to the hotel to be stored there before I could check in. They immediately started working on trying to get a room available for me before check-in time and in the meantime let me use the shower facilities in the gym, which included a clean towel and bottle of water. I got a better room with a lounge area. The kitchen was great - the fridge/freezer combi was very useful as I could freeze bottles of water for use on daily excursions. Very comfortable bed and convenient light switches, which allow you to switch on/off certain lights from the comfort of your bed. There is even a pull-out washing line in the shower. Breakfast was great - if you go to the restaurant on the higher floor, you get great views while enjoying the fantastic spread (including the creamiest hummus I ever had!). Stunning roof-top setting with a view of the Burj Khalifa. Even though the room was close to the metro rail, the passing trains didn't bother me as the room was relatively sound-proof and one could hardly hear it. Which brings me to the location. Easy-walking distance to the metro station, which was extremely convenient. I didn't bother to get a taxi to and from the airport, I used the metro. The staff were always super friendly and helpful and even helped by exchanging some of my larger notes for smaller denominations that I needed for one of my outings. After I checked out, I stored my luggage there again as I had a very late flight out. I went on a day trip and returned late that evening, and yet again I was allowed to take a shower in the gym facilities after which I relaxed on a deckchair next to the pool on the rooftop before leaving for the airport. I will definitely stay here again and highly recommend it for a hotel/self-catering combo in Dubai!

Ilze