Stunning hotel with exceptional service, but a few inconsistencies. From the moment I arrived at Raffles Bahrain, I was impressed. Reception was fantastic — welcome drinks were offered, and even though I accidentally tipped, they graciously replaced it. I was given a tour of the hotel, which was both fascinating and beautifully curated. The artwork throughout the property is mind-blowing and added so much character to the stay. The restaurants were incredible. Breakfast was exceptional — a modern Arab take while keeping key traditions, something that’s surprisingly hard to get right, and they nailed it. Evening dining was just as impressive. I had a few butlers over my stay; while I think having a designated butler would provide a more consistent experience, Margaret, in particular, was outstanding — attentive, friendly, and went above and beyond to arrange high tea and assist with my requests. Overall, the staff were welcoming, professional, and warm, particularly the Arab team members, who made the stay feel special. That said, there were a few disappointments. I requested a later checkout as my flight was at midnight, but was only offered up to 3 p.m., despite my villa being the most luxurious in the hotel and the hotel not at capacity. The checkout process felt rushed, with repeated calls to confirm I hadn’t overstayed. On departure, the golf buggy transporting my luggage was driven recklessly, which resulted in damage to my bag. Despite these issues, the hotel itself is stunning, the villas are luxurious, and the overall experience — from dining to art and atmosphere — was truly memorable.
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