Holiday Inn Bournemouth An Ihg Hotel

So, there I was, dragging my suitcase through the bustling streets of Bournemouth, with the sea breeze ruffling my hair and the promise of a beach day ahead. I'd been walking for what felt like miles, my arms aching from the weight of my bag, when I spotted a familiar sign. Holiday Inn, it read, with a little 'IHG' logo winking at me. I let out a sigh of relief, because let's face it, when you're on holiday, there's nothing quite like the comfort of a name you know.

Now, I'm not one to play favourites, but I've got to admit, Holiday Inn Bournemouth has a special place in my heart. It's like that friend who's always there for you, no matter where you are in the world. You know what you're getting, and that's a good thing. It's like coming home, but with a sea view and a 'Do Not Disturb' sign that actually works.

First Impressions

First things first, the location. It's right on the seafront, which means you're never more than a few steps away from the beach. I mean, who doesn't want to wake up to the sound of waves crashing against the shore? But don't worry, the rooms are soundproof, so you won't be disturbed by the early morning seagulls. Trust me, I've tried to wake up early for a sunrise, and those birds are louder than my alarm.

The lobby is all bright and airy, with a reception desk that's always manned by smiling faces. Check-in was a breeze, and before I knew it, I was on my way up to my room, the elevator playing a cheerful tune that made me tap my foot along. I've stayed in places where the elevator music could induce a headache, so this was a pleasant surprise.

Room with a View

My room was on the seventh floor, and let me tell you, the view was something else. The sea stretched out as far as the eye could see, the waves dancing under the sun. I could've stood there all day, but I had a beach towel with my name on it, so I didn't linger. The room was spacious, with a king-sized bed that was calling my name after my journey. The decor was modern, with a pop of colour here and there, and everything was spotlessly clean. I've stayed in places where the cleanliness was questionable, so I appreciated the effort here.

The bathroom was stocked with all the essentials, and the shower was powerful enough to wake me up in the morning. I've stayed in places where the water pressure was so low, I could've fallen asleep standing up. Not here, though. The towels were fluffy, and there was even a little bottle of mouthwash, which I thought was a nice touch. I mean, who doesn't want fresh breath on holiday?

Food and Drink

Now, I'm not one to skip meals, so I was pleased to see that the hotel had an on-site restaurant, the Jurassic Restaurant. The breakfast buffet was a sight to behold, with everything from full English to continental, and even a selection of healthy options. I went for the full English, because when in England, right? The food was hot, the coffee was strong, and the service was friendly. What more could you ask for?

Review: the new(ish) Holiday Inn Bournemouth hotel

Dinner was just as good. I had the fish and chips, because again, when in England. The fish was fresh, the chips were crispy, and the portion was generous. I left feeling full and happy, ready to explore the town. The restaurant also has a kids' menu, so if you're travelling with little ones, you're sorted.

If you fancy a drink, the Jurassic Lounge is the place to be. It's got a relaxed vibe, with comfortable seating and a bar that serves everything from cocktails to local beers. I had a Bournemouth Bay Brewery ale, because I like to support the locals. The lounge also has a selection of board games, which I thought was a nice touch. I mean, who doesn't love a good game of Monopoly after a few drinks?

Facilities

The hotel has a fitness centre, which I only went into to take a photo. I mean, who goes on holiday to work out? The gym was well-equipped, though, if that's your thing. There's also a sauna and a steam room, which I did use. I mean, who doesn't love a good sweat on holiday?

The hotel also has meeting rooms, if you're travelling for work. I've stayed in places where the meeting rooms were tiny and stuffy, but these were bright and airy, with all the tech you could need. There's also free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, which is a godsend when you're trying to upload your holiday snaps.

HOLIDAY INN BOURNEMOUTH, AN IHG HOTEL desde $ 321.739 (Inglaterra

Exploring Bournemouth

Now, I could've spent my entire holiday lounging by the pool or watching the waves from my room, but Bournemouth is too beautiful to stay indoors. The hotel is right on the South West Coast Path, so it's the perfect base for walks along the beach. I walked to Hengistbury Head one day, and the views were stunning. I also took the train into town, which was just a short walk away. Bournemouth has a great mix of shops, cafes, and bars, and the Old Orchard Brewery is a must-visit if you're a beer lover.

If you're travelling with kids, the hotel is also close to the Bournemouth Pier, which has an arcade, a zip wire, and even a virtual reality experience. I didn't try it, but it looked like a lot of fun. There's also the Bournemouth Oceanarium, which is home to all sorts of marine creatures. I'm more of a landlubber myself, but I've heard good things.

Final Thoughts

So, would I stay at Holiday Inn Bournemouth again? In a heartbeat. It's not the fanciest hotel in town, but it's comfortable, it's friendly, and it's great value for money. It's the kind of place that makes you feel at home, even when you're miles from it. And let's face it, that's what holidays are all about.

I've stayed in places that were all about the bells and whistles, but they forgot about the basics. Holiday Inn Bournemouth gets the basics right, and that's what makes it a winner in my book. So, if you're planning a trip to Bournemouth, do yourself a favour and book a room here. Your future self will thank you.