Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah

Ornate settings here leave a grand footprint on the already-prestigious Palm Jumeirah, where a private beach is serene, but there's nothing in walking distance. Fountain-flanked terraces and manicured gardens are palatial, and regal interiors follow suit. Lofty domed ceilings, a grand marble staircase, and soaring white columns in the lobby are embellished by gold accents. Earth-toned seating clusters here continue into the chandelier-clad Italian restaurant. It's formal looking, although alfresco terraces here are relaxed, as are vibes at the beachfront eatery and an indoor sports bar. International couples and families come here for staycation luxury, possible with a huge pool with a sunken bar, and gorgeous views toward the Arabian Gulf. Unfortunately, construction (due to last through 2019) has disturbed some guests. While the kids' club and spa aren't the most extensive, quality is superb, as is service here. Families make up the bulk of guests.

The hotel occupies an isolated spot along the manmade Palm Jumeirah archipelago, overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Ocean and city skyline views are sensational, but the remote positioning means a vehicle is necessary to get around. Taxis are the most popular choice for reaching attractions. The nearest Aquaventure Waterpark and its monorail station are a six-minute drive away. It's 20 minutes by car for Dubai Marina and its mall, and up to twice that for The Dubai Mall, downtown districts, and Burj Khalifa building. Allow one hour by car from Dubai International Airport.

Rooms are done in a classically elegant design featuring lots of golds, creams, and gilt accents. Guests can expect fine furniture and sumptuous touches such as damask fabrics, tassel pelmets, and chandeliers. Marbled floors are found throughout grand living and dining spaces outfitted with dining tables, couches, and full kitchens with ovens, dishwashers, Nespresso machines, and all necessary cookware. All rooms have furnished balconies and most overlook the sea, though some entry-level units face the gardens. Penthouse units have vast terraces, some with whirlpools or private pools.One-bedroom suites start at 1055 square feet (98 square meters), while three-, four-, or five-bedroom penthouses and villas with BOSE sound systems can be up to seven times larger. Standard amenities consist of flat-screen HDTVs, desks, safes, iPod docks, air-conditioning, minibars, and ironing facilities. Marble bathrooms have shower/tub combos, or jetted tubs and separate rainfall showers, as well as bidets, toiletries, robes, slippers, and hairdryers. Larger units have multiple bathrooms. Wi-Fi is free, but it's reportedly weak in rooms.

Though not the most extensive, upscale features evoke a resort feel. The white-sand, private beach has cushioned loungers -- some under cabanas -- and guests can dine on sands at the Beluga Beach Bar, which has a barbecue pit. Drinks and snacks are likewise available at the sunken pool bar, and a casual array of loungers, umbrellas, and white-wicker dining furniture surround the freeform pool. Palm trees line the pool, its islands, and gardens, where run-around space is great for kids. There are also a full kids' club, playground, and splash pool.Brunello Italian Bistro serves lavish buffet breakfasts with hot and continental options (included in some bookings). Its a la carte lunches and buffet dinners are popular, as are Friday brunches, and formal indoor areas bedecked in white carvings have casual outdoor counterparts on breezy terraces. K-West sports bar's red mood lighting, TVs showing sports events, and pool table create a casual space.While it lacks a sauna, steam room, and whirlpool, the Cinq Mondes Spa offers luxe treatments and couples' massages in a sleek, serene setting. A small 24-hour gym is available. Pets aren't permitted. Meeting space and ballroom facilities are on-site, and parking and Wi-Fi are both free.