Fresh baked chocolate chip cookies. A location literally steps from boutique clothing stores. And a lobby design reminiscent of a Juicy Couture photo shoot.
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What more could a girl want? This is the setting for South Africa’s DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cape Town – Upper Eastside (a lengthy, yet accurate property name if ever there was one). And, during our latest trip to South Africa, DoubleTree was kind enough to invite us in for a couple of nights.
The Skinny
In their own words, the DTbHHCTUE (as I’ve taken to calling it) overlooks:
… the busy Cape Town harbor and with an impressive backdrop of the green slopes of Devil’s Peak, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cape Town – Upper Eastside offers easy access to the vibrant downtown area and the central business district. Cape Town International Airport is just 15 minutes away.
And, most importantly, just like every DoubleTree hotel:
We look forward to welcoming you the moment you arrive with our signature chocolate chip cookie.
Because cookies make everything better.
Onsite amenities include:
- Complimentary 10-minute shuttle ride to the famous V&A Waterfront
- 15 minutes from Cape Town International Airport
- Nine versatile conference and banquet venues for up to 350 guests
- Complimentary fitness center on-site
- Liberty’s Restaurant serving fusion cuisine and traditional favorites
The Traveler’s Take
Design + Atmosphere
For a brand such as Hilton typically known for basic — bordering on staid — interior designs, the lobby at the DTbHHCTUE is a show stopper. It’s bold, glitzy and in-your-face in a way that no other Hilton is (at least none that I’ve stayed at) – a perfect focal point for a modern, upscale hotel in South Africa’s most cosmopolitan city. Paris would be proud.
The Room
Where the lobby is all sizzle, the guestrooms are back-to-basics. The furniture is “modern business traveler chic” with clean lines and an overall form-follows-function design aesthetic. It’s an IKEA-inspired, Scandinavian look and feel that’s minimalist, yet comfortable and inviting.
We found the floorplan more than spacious (we could’ve dropped another three king beds inside and still had enough room to breakdance).
Some in-room amenities include:
- Complimentary WiFi
- Mini-refrigerator
- Large walk-in shower
- 32-inch TV
- Spacious business desk with universal plug point and ergonomic chair
- Microwave
- Sweet Dreams® by DoubleTree signature bed package
- 300 Thread Count Sheets
Location
Above all else, the DTbHHCTUE’s primary selling point is location, location, location. It’s minutes from Cape Town International Airport, as well as V&A Waterfront, Two Oceans Aquarium, Table Mountain Cableway, Cape Point and The Fringe (Cape Town’s Innovation District). And, if you’re keen to take a (rather scenic) drive, the world renowned Constantia Valley is nearby, offering some of the best wines and vineyards, not only in South Africa, but in the entire world.
Pricing
Double occupancy rooms start around R760 (approx. $75 USD as of April 2014) plus tax. Check the DoubleTree Offers page for the brand’s latest specials and offers.
The Bottom Line
With a flashy design, just-right amenities, close proximity to everything a traveler could need for a week away from home, and solid room rates year-round, we like everything about the DTbHHCTUE. It’s well worth a look for your next stay in Cape Town.