"How did it strike you on arrival?Situated in the Al Fahidi Historical District, the boutique XVA Art Hotel is a unique contrast to Dubai's ubiquitous ultra-modern hotels. Owner Mona Hauser has created a remarkable 13-room inn inside the former home of Dubai's Seddiqi family, world-famous luxury watch dealers. The interiors are filled with thoughtful Persian details and works from top Middle Eastern artists, natch. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Artists, writers, and creative types—a breath of fresh air in Dubai. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Rooms are individually themed, but the gallery room deluxe that I stayed in had tall, wood-beamed ceilings, stone floors, and white walls decorated with—what else?—lots of great art. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?The local touches and three tree-lined courtyards make XVA feel like a quaint B&B. Sip mint lemonade in the shaded outdoors, and you'll forget you're in a desert- and skyscraper-filled city. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Bathrooms are bright and airy with loads of windows. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is fast and free. Room service: Worth it?You can order room service via XVA's fantastic on-site restaurant, but we recommend eating outside on one of the shaded courtyards. It's important to note that dishes are vegetarian only, and the hotel doesn't serve alcohol, so you'll have to go elsewhere for your nightcap. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.XVA isn't just an art hotel by name: The indoor/outdoor gallery exhibits both emerging and established Middle Eastern contemporary artists. Don't be surprised if you earmark an artist who later shows at international art fairs such as Art London and Art Basel Hong Kong. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?In a city with hundreds of thousands of hotel rooms, the personal touches make XVA stand out as a novel home-away-from-home in this thriving metropolis. Bottom line: worth it, and why?If you want to connect with a neighborhood and discover a true sense of place in a grand city like Dubai, XVA Art Hotel is a great value." - Laura Ratliff
