Kuwait's BEST Western Plus? Salmiya's Hidden Gem REVEALED!
Kuwait's BEST Western Plus? Salmiya's Hidden Gem REVEALED! …Or Is It? (A Brutally Honest Review, Kuwait Edition)
Okay, let's be real. "Hidden Gem" is a phrase that gets thrown around like free candy at a political rally. But the Western Plus in Salmiya? Well, it's… something. I just spent the last week there and I'm ready to unleash my unfiltered thoughts. Buckle up, buttercups. This is going to be less polished travel brochure, more "guy-who-slept-there-and-got-a-slightly-dodgy-tummy."
Accessibility: Trying to be a Good Egg
Right off the bat, huge kudos for trying. They've got elevators (essential!), and on-site accessible facilities which is already a win! I saw ramps, and generally a vibe of "we're not trying to exclude anyone." Nice. The Facilities for disabled guests are present, a major point of comfort and accessibility a major positive for Western Plus.
Internet, the Lifeline of the Modern Traveler:
Listen, if the Wi-Fi is terrible, it's a dealbreaker. This is 2024! Thankfully, the Western Plus delivers. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! And, blessedly, a decent signal strength. Internet access is everywhere, including in the Wi-Fi in public areas which is a godsend, and they offer Internet [LAN] if you need the security of a physical connection! A solid win in the digital age.
Cleanliness & Safety: Germaphobe's Paradise (Mostly!)
Okay, COVID taught us all a lesson: cleanliness matters. And the Western Plus clearly got the memo. They're boasting Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and my personal favorite: Room sanitization opt-out available (because, hello, I'm paranoid). Rooms sanitized between stays? Check. Staff trained in safety protocol? Hopefully. I did see people wearing masks, but let’s just say, I’d still keep my own sanitizer handy. The inclusion of Hand sanitizer throughout the premises and the Safe dining setup is a big plus. I felt safe, which is huge when you're travelling. The First aid kit is another comforting detail.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking: A Culinary Rollercoaster
Here's where things get… interesting. Restaurants, plural? Yes. Restaurants with a variety of offerings? Supposedly. I tried the Breakfast [buffet]. Look, it’s a buffet. Let's not pretend it's Michelin star quality. There were some decent Asian options, which was a nice touch, with offerings like Asian cuisine in restaurant. But also… the scrambled eggs tasted suspiciously like they were made from, well, not eggs. The Coffee/tea in restaurant were passable, but nothing to write home about. The Vegetarian restaurant, the Western cuisine in restaurant options, and the Desserts in restaurant all sounded promising, but I didn't try them. Okay, I had one of those little chocolate things… it was, you know, there. The Poolside bar sounds lovely, but I wasn't swimming weather, so I didn't see it.
The Room: My Humble Abode (And Its Quirks)
My room? It was… fine. Air conditioning was a lifesaver. The Blackout curtains are vital when the sun is blazing. Free bottled water? Always appreciated. The Coffee/tea maker was a welcome touch, but the cups were those tiny, flimsy things you can barely get a decent swig from. There was a Desk (good for working), a Mini bar (expensive), and an In-room safe box (which I used, because hey, paranoia). The Separate shower/bathtub, always a luxury. More importantly, it was kept clean and the amenities like Bathrobes, Slippers, Toiletries, and Towels were readily available.
But here's the thing: one day, the water pressure in the shower was like a sad drizzle. Then, on another day it blasted like a fire hose. Consistency, people! The Soundproofing was decent, but I could still hear muffled conversations from the hallway. And, for some reason, the Alarm clock beeped at me at 3 AM one morning for no discernible reason. Argh! But the Window that opens was a nice touch, letting some fresh air in.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax: A Mixed Bag
The Western Plus boasts amenities, which is awesome. They have a Fitness center, a Gym/fitness, a Pool with view, Swimming pool [outdoor], a Sauna, a Spa/sauna, and a Steamroom, all of which I was too busy to use, but I'm sure somebody enjoys them.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
They DO have Air conditioning in public areas, which, in Kuwait, is mandatory. Cash withdrawal. A Concierge: friendly, and reasonably helpful. Currency exchange is available, which is always great. Daily housekeeping – a godsend. Elevator, essential, given the heat and all. Ironing service (I managed to avoid it, barely). Laundry could definitely be a good choice when you get wet from the pool. The Laundry service is great. Luggage storage, perfect for those early check-ins or late check-outs. Also things like Doorman.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly or Forgettable?
I didn't have any small humans with me, so I can't comment on the Kids facilities other than to say they are available and mentioned.
Getting Around: Easy Peasy… Mostly
Airport transfer is available, hugely convenient, and I recommend it. Car park [on-site] – thankfully free. Taxi service is readily available.
The One Thing That Absolutely WON My Heart:
Okay, here’s the thing that truly made me go "okay, this is pretty good": THE BED. It was honestly, the most comfortable hotel bed I’ve ever had. I swear! It was an extra long bed! I'd had a killer travel day and arrived late, exhausted. I collapsed on that bed and sunk into a cloud of soft, supportive, bliss. No back pain, no tossing and turning. I slept like a baby, and that, my friends, is priceless.
The Verdict: A Salmiya Survivor
Is the Western Plus in Salmiya a "Hidden Gem"? Depends on your definition of gem. It's not perfect. There are definitely areas for improvement (buffet eggs, I'm looking at you). But it’s clean, safe, reasonably well-equipped, and it has a fantastic bed. If you’re looking for a solid, comfortable, and convenient base in Salmiya, it's a good choice.
My Honest Rating: 7.5/10 (Mostly because of the bed. Seriously, sleep is valuable.)
The "Steal Your Money" Offer (aka Book Now!)
Tired of boring hotels? Craving a comfortable haven in the heart of Salmiya?
Then ditch the generic and dive into the surprisingly delightful Western Plus!
- Cozy rooms: Sink into that unbelievably comfortable bed. Seriously. That alone is worth the stay.
- Stay safe and secure: Enjoy a trip without worries with our anti-viral cleaning products, room sanitization opt-out and staff trained in safety protocol!
- Stay connected!: Fast and free Wi-Fi keeps you online, and you have access to a LAN connection if you prefer!
- Breakfast buffet - and good coffee to start the day!
- Amazing Staff
But here's the real deal: Book your stay now with the code "SALMIYASLEEP" and receive:
- A free upgrade (subject to availability).
- A free welcome drink at the bar.
- A 10% discount on spa treatments.
- A night of excellent sleep
This offer is valid for a limited time only, so don't miss out!
Click this link to book your amazing stay now!
[Insert Booking Link Here]
P.S. Don't forget to pack your sense of adventure (and maybe a travel-sized bottle of your favorite hot sauce). See you in Salmiya! And no, I wasn't paid to say any of this. I just really loved that bed.
**Pranee Amata: Thailand's Hidden Paradise (You NEED to See This!)**
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's travel itinerary. This is… well, it's my attempt to wrangle a trip to the Best Western Plus Salmiya in Kuwait into something remotely resembling a plan. Prepare for chaos. And hopefully, some laughs.
The "Operation: Don't Completely Screw This Up" Itinerary
Days 1 & 2: Arrival & the Great Salmiya Scramble
Morning (Day 1): Landed in Kuwait. Already sweating. Not just from anxiety (which, let's be honest, is a constant companion), but because… well, it's Kuwait. It's hot. The airport feels like a giant, air-conditioned sandcastle. Finding the shuttle to the hotel was, let's just say, a journey. The guy who was supposed to be holding the Best Western sign looked like he'd rather be anywhere else. Can't totally blame him.
Afternoon (Day 1): Finally, glory! I'd arrive at the Best Western Plus Salmiya, my oasis in the desert… of logistics. Check-in was smooth-ish. My room! Okay, decent view of… a parking lot. Hey, perspective, right? It's a room. Air conditioning works. Bonus points. Immediate unpacking (or… throwing things messily onto surfaces, more accurately). I think I'll chill for an hour or two before doing anything.
Evening (Day 1): Right, must eat. The hotel restaurant? Tempting. But I'm going for adventure! I'm going to walk out and find food. I feel quite brave. I went out! I see nothing but a gigantic mall! Suddenly, I feel like I'm lost in a maze of glittering consumerism. Ate some mediocre shawarma, but at least I'm eating. It was a journey to find it, the smell of the grilling meat led me from the desert of the mall to the oasis that was the Shawarma stand. Then, back to the room, where I promptly crashed.
Morning (Day 2): Breakfast at the hotel! Buffet life. This is the dream. I'm going to sample everything. The dates were amazing. What is this spice they put on the omelets?! I may or may not have sneaked a date or two for later. Totally kidding, I didn't.
Afternoon (Day 2): I've decided to tackle the Salmiya area! A friend said the Souk is a must-see. Honestly? It's amazing. A sensory overload in the best way possible. The smells alone! Spices, perfumes, oud… Wow. Almost bought a camel. (Kidding! … Mostly). Negotiating prices is an art form. I'm the Jackson Pollock of haggling. I probably got ripped off, but I also acquired some pretty cool trinkets and way too much baklava. Went to the beach, which was lovely, but the sand got everywhere.
Evening (Day 2): Dinner at a local restaurant. I have no idea what I ordered. It was delicious. I think I may have pointed at the menu and hoped for the best. Ate it. No regrets. Back at the hotel, I collapsed on the bed and scrolled through Instagram to see if anyone was enjoying their lives more than me, and the answer was, of course, yes. But, you know, I was doing okay.
Days 3 & 4: Diving Deep (or at Least Dipping a Toe) - The Kuwait Towers and Exploring
- Morning (Day 3): Kuwait Towers. Decided to finally go! I took some photos. The views are spectacular, and the rotating viewing sphere made me feel a little queasy, but hey, worth it for the experience. I'm so cultured.
- Afternoon (Day 3): Decided to explore more of the city. Tried to take a bus, got hopelessly lost for a while. Eventually found my way back to Salmiya. I thought I saw a cat, I can't say for sure. Just the general vibes of the day.
- Evening (Day 3): Ate at a restaurant a friend had mentioned. It was a culinary masterpiece! I had too much food and had to waddle back to the hotel. And I had so much leftovers that I did not eat.
- Morning (Day 4): So. I'm going to admit something. I took one of those dates from the breakfast buffet. (I have no shame.) Anyway, I then spent the morning at the hotel pool. It was nice, relaxing, etc.
- Afternoon (Day 4): I went to another souk which was fine, there was much variety. I then had a long nap and woke up feeling brand new.
- Evening (Day 4): I ordered room service. I was so tired, I wanted nothing to do with the outside world. I had a lot of thoughts about life.
Day 5: Farewell (and the inevitable airport drama)
- Morning (Day 5): Last breakfast buffet! Savoring every last date. Seriously, these dates are going to be the highlight. (And I'm not even a huge date person!) Packed my bag (again, more like, shoved everything in haphazardly).
- Afternoon (Day 5): Checkout. Shuttle to the airport. The airport experience. Well, let's just say things are… chaotic. Security is crazy. But it was fine, I made it.
- Evening (Day 5): On the plane. Exhausted. Already dreaming about the next adventure. Maybe. Or maybe just a nap. Or possibly, more dates.
Final Thoughts (and rambling):
Kuwait? It's a place. It's hot. It's different. It's… an experience. The Best Western Plus Salmiya was a solid base camp in the middle of all that. Did I experience everything? Absolutely not. Did I get lost? Constantly. Did I eat my weight in dates? Possibly. Would I do it all over again? Probably. Because, you know, life's too short for perfectly planned itineraries. Now, where are those dates…?
Hualien's HOTTEST Hostel: Champs Awaits Your Adventure!
