Return visitors say they love the sense of history surrounding them at the Dan, built in 1953 and billed as Tel Aviv's very first hotel. The rainbow-painted back side of the hotel, facing the Mediterranean, contributes to the landmark status—it was designed by famed Israeli artist Ya'akov Agam. Rooms in the luxurious King David wing have panoramic sea views and double-glazed windows to muffle city noise. One of the hotel's two restaurants, the Gandan, has both a dairy and a meat section; the other, La Regeance, is gourmet Mediterranean style (and is kosher). Most of the Dan's rooms are at the higher-end executive or deluxe level. Color schemes range from sand-and-sea to rich burgundy. The leisure complex includes a gym and an indoor and outdoor (salt-water) pool. A popular stretch of public beach is right across the street. Pros: historic premises; deluxe suites have CD stereo systems and DVDs. Cons: guest lounge is off-limits to children under 18.
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