THE HOTEL: Opened in January 2007, the 18-floor hotel is just one of many large-scale developments in Astana since it became Kazakhstan's new capital city in 1997. It is part of the large Arman complex with a business centre, shopping arcade, office tower, restaurants and recreation facilities.
The check-in: The check-in desk was not immediately obvious in the mammoth lobby. A beaming hotel receptionist quickly checked me in, though, and gave a brief overview of hotel facilities. Big, juicy green apples were on offer in a bowl on the desk – a nod to the country's heritage as the origin of the fruit?
The room: My 'Business Class' room (larger than a regular room and with separate bath and shower, but otherwise the same) was well designed – neutral colours, clean-cut lines – and featured all mod cons, as well as complimentary snacks and drinks as standard, plus an easy-to-use Nespresso machine. The bathroom felt almost as large as the room itself, and there were reasonable views across the river.
The business: There's a 1,400m2 ballroom, plus meeting rooms ranging from 38m2 to 620m2. As with all Radisson properties, internet access is free throughout the hotel.
The facilities: There's a large Lobby Bar, a Cigar Bar and the Capri restaurant, specialising in fine dining and Western dishes. My group enjoyed an excellent three-course meal here. There's also Chocolate, a plush nightclub in the complex, refuge of Astana's fashionable and elite, and a selection of shops from big designer names such as Gucci. Room rates include access to a public gym and pool which are quite a trek from the main hotel, and not special enough to warrant the effort.
The verdict: Lacked the buzz of big city hotels in other destinations, but my Business Class room hit the mark. Plenty of space, super-comfortable and good facilities. Opening the breakfast buffet 30 minutes early for our break-of-day departure was greatly appreciated, and representative of high Radisson service standards.
The details: Standard autumn rates start from $480 per night; Business Class rooms are $600; Junior Suites are $800 a night; and Executive Suites are from $1,100 per night. Rates include 'Super Buffet Breakfast', gym and pool access and wifi, but are subject to VAT at 13 per cent.
See: www.radissonsas.com for more information. Andy Hoskins
