THOSE close to me won’t be surprised by my lack of grand, romantic gestures.
And I under-delivered again when my wife Joanne and I recently reached our fifth wedding anniversary recently.
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Yes, a poor show on my part. But I did buy a card later in the afternoon…
Thankfully, I was bailed out by the incredible team at the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel — one of three Apex Hotels in Edinburgh.
I’d made them aware we were visiting a week after that milestone and they more than made up for my slacking.
Remembering Joanne’s face opening that measly £2.50 card, it couldn’t have been a greater contrast opening the door to the surprises inside our room.
I’d opted for the romantic retreat and it didn’t disappoint.
A complimentary bottle of prosecco, box of chocolates, in-room rose petals and stunning towel art really set the mood.
And when hotel staff arranged a ‘Happy Anniversary’ card too, it had dug me right out that hole.
The hotel was faultless, with a restaurant and relaxing spa on site and just a six-minute walk from Waverley station.
Princes Street shopping is close by. And if walking’s your thing then Arthur’s Seat is less than 20 minutes in the other direction. Joanne and I attempted it before the spring temperatures caught us out.
Despite that, we’d have been more than content staying within the hotel’s walls for the two-night stay. It was honestly that enjoyable.
It started with the attentive reception staff, welcoming us at the grand entranceway before escorting us to the quick and easy check-in where all the information we needed for our stay was provided.
After politely turning down help with our bags, we headed for our room and the host of surprises.
The room was standard — but only in name. Outwith the extras put on from the package, it hosted a huge bathroom with a walk-in shower AND spacious bath.
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There were robes, slippers and a coffee machine which added to the luxury. Several other key amenities were made use of.
The widescreen TV was watchable from our king size bed, which too exceeded our expectations in both spaciousness and comfort. So a chilled evening in the room it was!
Breakfast at Elliot’s restaurant was included next day and we were treated to fabulous table service from the ever-attentive staff.
From the impressive menu I ordered The Great British Breakfast while Joanne had the waffles. Both were excellent. There’s also a continental buffet, serving cereals, pastries, yoghurts, fruit and toast.
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It set us up for the day as we hit the capital’s streets, taking in the sights while doing some shopping, although the chilly Scots wind almost ended our outdoor adventures.
The pain was eased by a stop at the Omni Centre — just a three minute walk away — for lunch and drinks.
And when exploring was over, it was time for the hotel’s stunning spa! We virtually had the place to ourselves which added to the peaceful setting.
Apex Hotel Waterloo Place
GO: EDINBURGH
A City Double Room, with breakfast starts from £195 a night two sharing and a deluxe duplex suite is from £374.85 a night including breakfast, again two sharing. See apexhotels.co.uk
The pool was great, with beds pool-side to relax, we didn’t need to be asked twice.
The steam room and sauna followed, where we sprawled out and smiled the smile of the contented.
Deciding where to eat that night was probably the hardest thing we did the whole weekend.
There’s just so many places in Edinburgh that pals had recommended. We opted for curry at one of the city’s many Indian restaurants. What a fabulous feast it was.
Afterwards we popped into a nearby pub to catch the football and grab a drink and enjoy the fine Edinburgh atmosphere.
Then it was back for a great night’s sleep before another belter of a breakfast ahead of departing, using our late check-out of course!
The Apex is on the top of our wish list for next year’s anniversary trip, that’s for sure