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Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace
Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace, Tbilisi, Georgia
BACKGROUND The first international chain hotel in the region when it opened in 1989, the Sheraton witnessed Georgia’s revival as it came out of a long period of Soviet rule. Located in the heart of the old city, it is one of the capital’s top business hotels, favoured by visiting diplomats and executives. the mountains enhanced the experience. Luxurious, but homely and comfortable, it was decorated in neutral, calming colours. There were plenty of international TV channels and despite the property’s proximity to a major road, great soundproofing made for a very good night’s sleep. dining concept. The food was fabulous, and the interiors were beautiful, blending contemporary design with Georgian heritage. Our table on the terrace was a wonderful place to admire the city from the 10th-storey outlook while enjoying the balmy summer evening. It’s a great place to entertain a client. Sports bar Craft House also o ers light bites and screens big sporting events.
BUSINESS The hotel has a bright, openair business centre in the lobby lounge with one co-working space, two desktop computers and a printer. There are 12 meeting spaces including the Kavkasioni Ballroom with a 1,000-person capacity.
LEISURE A large, very well-equipped fitness centre with Technogym kit, as well as a studio, indoor pool and jacuzzi. Open 24 hours, it caters for business travellers on all schedules and time zones. The massage in the luxurious spa was perfect after a hectic week. There is also a beautiful outdoor pool and bar, steam, sauna and ice bath.
VERDICT I was really surprised at how much I loved the hotel. The refurb has given it a new lease of life belying its harsh exterior, and the location was extremely convenient. Melanie Swan
WHAT’S IT LIKE? Newly refurbished after a radical five-year facelift, it is fresh, stylish and modern. With an unmistakably Soviet façade, it’s not the most beautiful building in this architecturally rich and historic city, but it does o er stunning views across picturesque Tbilisi. It is a very wellequipped business hotel with the added bonus of resort amenities too.
WHERE IS IT? It’s located on the Mtkvari River in Avlabari, less than 30 minutes from the airport and a short drive from the centre of town.
ROOMS There are 220 rooms and suites in this sizeable urban resort. I stayed in a magnificent Presidential Suite with an en-suite bedroom, dressing room, lounge, dining table for four, desk space and separate guest bathroom. Fun in-room tech included bedside lighting controls and the multi-socket plug at the desk was a lifesaver as I had forgotten my converter. The suite felt more like an apartment than a hotel room and the balcony overlooking FOOD AND DRINK Breakfast was bu et-style at the all-day dining restaurant Feast. Options were international, but with plenty of delicious local ingredients such as cheese, fruit and vegetables, local breads and in true Georgian style, Champagne. We had dinner at ATI, a modern, luxury Georgian
BEST FOR Travellers who like to keep in shape
DON’T MISS Dinner on the terrace at ATI
PRICE From US$178 per night
CONTACT 20 Telavi Street; +995 322 77 20 20; marriott.com
