July 8 - A new breed of three-star budget hotel, the Centro Hotel by Rotana, beckons summer guests with low rates to experience what Rotana says is a five-star feel.

“We launched the brand back in 2006 with the intention of creating a bold new genre, a lifestyle hotel brand offering finesse and functionality at reasonable prices,” said Omar Kaddouri, chief operating officer, Rotana.

The Centro Barsha is a bold example — its unassuming seven-storey exterior reveals an interior to be noted. The ‘courtyard’ lets in plenty of light and the design is fresh, inviting and chic at the same time. It’s hard to miss the quirky twist right through to the rooftop, where the pool and shaded seating areas are arranged in an interesting setting, think pebbles and plants.

“We want people to feel like they are walking into a five star, sensing happiness and wanting to return,” Kaddouri explained.