Cape Town travel winner

November 18, 2011. The first thing I notice upon arriving in the Mother City is how easy it is to reach the Upper Eastside Hotel, situated in bustling Woodstock about 10 minutes from the CBD. No bumper to bumper, 45 minute grind, rather stress free and relatively plain sailing through the morning traffic from the airport.

This is all about travelling convenience, and the hip, urban environment of the hotel, which was recently awarded a four star rating by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, reflects the needs of the modern business and leisure traveller.

With parking provided beneath the hotel and easy access into the foyer, it’s a simple case of arrive, check in and head for your room. The rooms all boast the creature comforts a business traveller would require. My list included: an ample sized bed (always a winner); super comfortable linen and bedding; desk for writing and to catch up on work on the laptop; deep, comfortable chairs; flat screen TV with satellite channels; tea and coffee; rooms cleaned daily; comfy towels, body washes and shampoo; hand soap; large shower, with good pressure (okay, perhaps not important to everyone, but one of my personal musts).

Wow! Luxury loft living

The elegant executive suites offer superb facilities, comfort and spaciousness . . . and, yes, they also have baths in ample en suite facilities.

One of my favourite features of the Upper Eastside Hotel, second to its location, is the contemporary Liberty’s dining room, eStreet Bar and Lounge. Described by the developers as “glam-with-a-touch-of-funk, the hotel certainly hit all the high notes with our travelling business party.

Not being a puffer myself, I was nevertheless pleased to see such a warm and comfortable space for my colleague to enjoy a quick fix. I quickly ensconced myself in the spectacular bar, a busy area as visitors went about business, meetings and kept social arrangements long into the night.

Upper Eastside Hotel's swanky library

And in the morning we said yes to the optional breakfast, which was extremely comprehensive, well prepared and presented, while service was friendly and efficient. I ate my fill and reached for a newspaper while savouring that extra cup of wake-me-up java.

My verdict, the R220 million, 183-room Upper Eastside Hotel is a well-designed, user friendly and modern facility that provides superb facilities for the needs of business traveller, while offering excellent value for money.

Wi-fi is free and there’s a Vida e Caffe within the building complex for those coffaholics. For those short of time but in need of pampering, there is also a beauty salon, hair dresser and masseuse right on the doorstep of the hotel – it forms part of the retail offering of the development. For a change of scene, there are also several restaurants to choose from including Italian, Asian, a deli and a convenience store.

And it’s all in the middle of the action, right where you want to be. – Garth Johnstone

Visit the website for pricing and further inquiries.