Almaty in Kazakhstan, Royal Tulip Hotel

Royal Tulip Hotel in Almaty ©Solange Hando

At the foot of the Tien Shan mountains in southern Kazakhstan, the 5 star Royal Tulip  is among the best hotels in Almaty, the former capital and top cultural centre.

Located at around 1000 metres, it's a lovely oasis with water features and flowers and all the luxury you would expect.

The Reception Area ©Solange Hando

Step through the revolving doors and beyond the security scan, you are greeted in an elegant circular area with gleaming columns, fresh flowers and chandeliers. Service is efficient and prompt, staff helpful and English speaking.

Guest Room at the Royal Tulip Almaty ©Solange Hando

The hotel has 155 rooms and 10 suites, including executive and presidential. Rooms are spacious with period furnishings, ample storing space and top amenities.

Bathrooms are equally large with dressing area, double washbasin,bath and walk-in shower.

Almaty Royal Tulip ©Solange Hando

All room corridors are open, with space and light enhanced by golden rails, soothing paintings and green plants. Glass lifts leading to the upper floors let you to appreciate the palatial interior.

Breakfast Time ©Solange Hando

This is just a small selection of the luscious breakfast available in the Royal Cafe which also offers international cuisine throughout the day.

Relax in the lounge bar for tempting drinks and refreshments and look out for the Wine Gallery where you will find 100 famous wines from across the world.

The Grand Ballroom ©Solange Hando

Sought after by discerning locals and visitors alike, the Grand Ballroom is the top venue for VIP receptions and weddings, as was the case for the President's grandson.

Other facilities include three conference rooms, an indoor pool with underwater massage, waterfall and whirlpool and a spa and wellness centre offering among others hammam, Russian bath and Finnish sauna.

Scenic Mountain View from Royal Tulip Almaty ©Solange Hando

Andorra La Vella, Capital City

Pont de Paris in Andorra  La Vella ©Solange Hando

Stretching over the Valira river, this elegant bridge is just one example of the avant-garde architecture appreciated in Andorra.

It's 45 metres long on its straight section and 27 on the semi-circular part, contrasting in its own way with the older buildings in town.

Bird's eye View of Andorra La Vella ©Solange Hando

For an overall view of the capital, walk up the steep path leading to the irrigation channel running half way up along the slope.

See the mountains all around, including the southern section close to Spain, the buildings of Andorra La Vella - the capital of the namesake principality few people know about- and most surprisingly all the gardens and allotments climbing up the hills wherever there is space. 

Time Immemorial by Salvador Dahli ©Solange Hando

This is one of several modern sculptures you will find around Andorra La Vella and the adjoining town Escaldes.

It is made of bronze, weighs 1400 kgs and symbolises the passing of time. The crown on the top shows how time dominates humanity.

Old District ©Solange Hando

But beyond the modern art and architecture and away from the glittering boutiques and duty free shops, the Old Town is a cultural heritage site laced with cobbled lanes and stepped alleyways winding up and down the hilly capital.

Now and then you come across a hidden square, the perfect place to meet the locals and enjoy the local fare.

St Esteve Church in Andorra La Vella ©Solange Hando

First built in the 12th century and altered over time, this quiet Romanesque church has kept its bell tower and semi-circular apse with Lombardian decorations.

It is located in the old district close to the river and the Parliament Building.

So where is Andorra?

In the Pyrenees, bordered by France and Spain

Top attractions?

Trekking in summer, skiing in winter

Duty free allowance year round

Direct transfers from Toulouse or Barcelona

Enjoy!