NOT to be confused with the Best Western in any way, Westin is one of international hotel group, Starwoods premium brands. My first experience of a Westin property was in Rome, where that citys iconic Excelsior, with its grand cupola, is a luxury landmark.
Little has changed at the towering Westin Grand (previously Arabella Sheraton) on the cosmetic front as the rooms and public spaces appear as they did before - contemporary and a little quirky with vibrant colour accents. One of the great improvements is a Westin trademark: Heavenly.
We slept extremely well on our Heavenly bed which was supportive but also soft and yielding. More and more hotels are focusing on delivering a restful night with some even using soft light and warm milk to lull guests into dreamland.
The Heavenly shower a two-headed pleasure monster poised to pummel your shoulders with intense sprays while the other head douses the rest of the body is another Westin concept.
If I were to distal the key requirements of a good hotel room Id be left with a great bed, powerful shower and a space that can be made dark and quiet.
In all these respects, and many others besides, The Westin Grand succeeds.
Our room, 1727, was on the Executive Club level. Although this isnt a new concept, Executive or Club floors are especially useful for the business traveller as they include access to a private club lounge space and often the opportunity to enjoy something light to eat without having to order. The in-room refreshment station (nattily enclosed in a mirrored cupboard with its own lighting) included an espresso-style machine.
A printer/fax machine as well as sufficient plugs to charge phones and computers and ADSL computer cables are standard in executive rooms.

The 19th floor previously housed The Towers Restaurant which didnt succeed as a stand-alone eating option, but works very well as a club space. For breakfast with a view (and away from the masses) the Westins 19th Floor is unrivalled.
From the cold buffet I enjoyed plump oysters sexed-up with a ginger salsa as well as smoked salmon roses with a salty caper at each centre. The selection of lightly poached fruits one in a delicious chilli syrup, was impressive. I ordered buttermilk pancakes with crispy bacon but was disappointed that they didnt arrive with maple syrup as standard.
The 19th Floor is also home to the Spa and hair salon. I can only think of one other hotel hot spa with sauna and steam facilities where nudity is optional and open to both sexes.
As more men take charge of their metrosexual status, visits to spas with their wives are increasing and a facility such as this one is perfect for couples.
The rim-flow pool gives the illusion and feeling of flying above the city, while the glassed in sauna provides corner office views and the opportunity to sweat it out while watching the suckers stuck in the traffic below.
Westin Grand Hotel 021-412-9999.