Our features writer Fundiswa Nkwanyana tells us about her weekend stay at Peermont Metcourt Hotel, located at Emperors Palace Hotel Casino Convention and Entertainment Resort, Johannesburg.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
I was welcomed by a friendly doorman who escorted me to the reception area where I checked in. My eyes were drawn to the vibrant green decor that was complemented by the abstract light fixtures that created a serene ambience. I could also see the in-house restaurant and waiting area that had a quirky seating area and a few decorative sculptures and paintings with a casino decor theme. My guest relations officer was pleasant, cracking a few jokes in-between, and that helped me to relax since I was a bit tense from struggling to find parking at the busy hotel and casino. They let me in on the facilities in such an enticing way that made me look forward to my stay.
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THE ROOM
When I walked through the doors, I was welcomed by a fresh floral scent and an open-plan room with a very big bed. I loved the fact that a curtain could separate the bath area from the bedroom. And, because the linen was crisp and soft, I slept peacefully. My bedroom, however, had no bar fridge, which I didn’t like because I had to walk all the way downstairs to collect ice to keep my drinks chilled.
OUT AND ABOUT
The joy of staying in a hotel that is located in an entertainment complex is that there are plenty of fun and exciting activities to explore. I loved that I didn’t have to drive anywhere because everything I wanted to do was within walking distance from the hotel. Friday was comedy night at the entertainment complex, and I laughed until my stomach hurt! I was also pleased to see that security visibility was a priority, so I didn’t have to worry about my safety as I walked back to my hotel late at night.
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OCTAVIA’S DAY SPA
On Saturday, I visited Octavia’s Day Spa, situated at the five-star D’Oreale Grande Hotel at Emperors Palace. Walking in, I was welcomed by majestic chandeliers, large regal paintings and a relaxing atmosphere. I’ve had my fair share of massages, but this was the best full body massage I’ve ever had! Afterwards, I spent time in the roman bath, then the steam room and sauna. Even though the spa was busy, I was treated like a queen. The service was excellent, and I left feeling like a million bucks.
AURELIA’S RESTAURANT
The entrance had a gentleman playing soothing tunes on a piano, which was a pleasant surprise. The friendly hostess ushered me and my partner to our table. The decor had a royal touch with elegant curtains, grand chairs and stylish hanging lights; everything was fancy, from the cutlery to the plating. Our candlelit dinner was delicious – for mains we enjoyed braised lamb shank bredie and seafood vodka fettuccine pasta that was plated like a work of art. It looked good, and tasted even better. For dessert, we indulged in a Karoo cheeseboard (that had a variety of cheeses!) and rooibos lemon meringue. The cocktails were also potent and delicious while the service was excellent.
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OVERALL EXPERIENCE
Although I enjoyed my stay, I was disappointed by the service at the hotel’s in-house restaurant. During afternoon drinks, I sat by a table overlooking the pool. After waiting for about 10 minutes, I had to go and find a waiter to serve me. This while for breakfast, I had to wait for about 10 minutes to get a table. And when I finally ate, the food was bland and not memorable. Despite this, I had an amazing stay and so much fun at the entertainment complex. I highly recommend it if you’re looking for a relaxing and fun-filled stay with plenty of entertainment options to explore. This has become one of my favourite hotels, and I look forward to another pleasant stay.