We checked out of JA Hatta Fort Hotel after a light meal at the Café Gazebo and made our way to Sern’s trusty stead, which was christened ‘Timah’.
It was roughly a 2 hour drive from Hatta to Dubai. Along the way we enjoyed the scenery and change in landscape and vegetation.
 |
| Dubai in the far distance |
 |
| our hearts beat a little faster |
We got to the hotel at about 4pm and after leaving
Timah in the hands of the valet attendant (and a good friend of Sern's, it would appear) we checked into the hotel. Knowing our deep affinity and affection for Bur Dubai, Ginny and Sern made sure to book a hotel right smack in the middle of
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, which we had written extensively in the past.
 |
| a small unassuming entrance |
 |
| the sign says it all |
XVA Art Hotel is best described in the words of their own website: Since the 2003 inauguration, heritage and history have merged to create a constantly evolving designer haven called the XVA Art Hotel. The inspired owner, Mona Hauser, has create 14 unique and individual guest rooms which showcase architectural and cultural motifs of the region. Within an internationally acclaimed art gallery, the hotel also boasts an award-winning restaurant. The hotel is located in the heart of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, the oldest community in Dubai. Unique for its Persian architectural heritage, the mystery of its traditional maze-like alleyways and proximity to the Creek, Al Fahidi is viewed as one of the most important heritage sites in Dubai. XVA occupies the former home of the Seddiqi family.
 |
| within the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood |
 |
| there's art everywhere |
 |
| the camel giving Cat the 'look' |
The public areas consisting of three courtyards, which are air-conditioned in the summer months, are tree-shaded and tranquil, offering quiet corners for poets, artists and visitors alike. Many of the works on display, including those by resident artist, Halim Al Karim, provide an insight into the art of the Middle East for which XVA Gallery is known.
 |
| an 'artful' hallway |
 |
| leading us to a cool chic hotel |
 |
| the courtyard in front of our room |
 |
| there's a cafe as well |
 |
| we'll probably have a cuppa later |
With its three original wind towers, a sumptuous lounge and starry rooftop for the solace-seeking guests, this centrally located hotspot is the city’s sexiest and best-kept secret retreat. Condé Nast Traveler featured XVA as the no.1 place “not to miss” in Dubai. In Wallpaper Dubai city guide, XVA is listed as THE boutique hotel in which to stay whilst visiting Dubai. Qantas In Flight magazine listed XVA high on their “10 reasons to visit Dubai list.“.
 |
| cosy armchairs outside Brendan's room |
 |
| the door to our room |
 |
| the door to Ginny and Sern's room |
In a nutshell, this is one heck of a cool trendy hotel situated in the heart of Bur Dubai.
 |
| Ginny and Sern's room |
 |
| Brendan's pad |
 |
| cosy, right? |
After a shower we were re-energised and eager to begin our walkabout of the Bur Dubai!
No comments:
Post a Comment