We booked for Christmas week as the rates were extremely reasonable and the location is second to none. We were offered one of the refurbished suites on the ground floor, but decided to go for one of the older ones with a sea view. The suite was huge, very clean and comfortable. Yes, it's a bit of faded grandeur and it could have done with a lick of paint and new carpet, but it's quirkiness and shabby chic just added to its charm. The kitchen was a full size one, not just a kitchenette and even had a washing machine (but sadly no dishwasher). It was kitted out with enough crockery/utensils to cook our Christmas lunch. Plenty of heating and hot water, good shower as well. The lighting in the bathroom wasn't great and I'd advise bringing a shaving mirror to set up where there's more light (kitchen). It was very quiet and the sea views were fantastic.
The Grand itself is a wonderful building with staff to match. The lady at reception treated us to a mini tour and told us all about the history. It was busy with Christmas events, so we didn't get much of a chance to try the facillities, although we did have a meal in Keppels which was very good.
We will definitely be coming back in the low season (the rates are well worth it) and maybe we'll try the refurbished suites this time, just to compare.
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
2 January 2012
Dear PhilbeachTraveller,
Thank you for your glowing review of The Grand, our first of 2012!
I am very pleased that you enjoyed your stay and found the facilities, food & staff to your liking, and that the high volume of busy Christmas events being held throughout your stay did not impact your experience with us in any way.
Finally it is my pleasure to inform you that we are in the process of redecorating our suites, including the suite of your stay.
I look forward to welcoming you back to The Grand in the future,
Kind Regards
Robert Richardson MIH
General Manager
The Grand
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC