Published 28th Jun. 2021
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Luxury holidays to Abu Dhabi aren't often an obvious choice, as the country isn't a particularly well known destination. After a recent visit, part of me wants to keep it that way and not let it get too busy - but then I wouldn't want to be selfish...
Last week, I travelled to discover what the capital Emirate has to offer. I had been to Dubai many years ago and wasn't sure what to expect from it's neighbouring country. Conclusion? It's pretty different. The 200 or so islands are all natural, one of which, Saadiyat Island, is due to become a cultural hub, with The Louvre and Guggenheim planned for it. What's more, the beach on Saadiyat Island is eight kilometres long, and the best you'll find in Abu Dhabi.
In town, the huge Sheikh Zayed mosque houses 40,000 worshipers and boasts impressive Swarovski crystal chandeliers.
The desert is sensational, and it was definitely worth getting up at 5am to drive out into, to watch the sunrise and dune bash. The colours are unforgettable - the deep red of the iron oxide in the sand, the sea blue sky...
Activities are plentiful wherever you are; whether that's spotting the Arabian animals on Sir Bani Yas Island; falconry, archery and camel-trekking in the Empty Quarter; swinging a golf club or relaxing on the beach or in one of the numerous spas....
Test your adrenalin levels at Ferrari World and the soon-to-open WaterWorld! Ferrari World is the world's largest indoor theme park, and features a host of rides and attractions, including Formula Rossa - the fastest roller coaster in the world reaching 240 km/hr in under 5 seconds!! (I did survive!).
Food is clearly important in Abu Dhabi - we ate ridiculously well throughout our stay, sampling the cuisine at the likes of Hakkasan and Marco Pierre White's Steakhouse and Grill. Scotts of Mayfair is opening shortly, too - though you don't need to go to one of these names to enjoy good food, as even the hotels' buffets (most with live kitchens) were to die for. The infamous Friday brunch (think humongous buffet starting at about 11am and going on 'til late afternoon) is seriously impressive and seriously good fun, too.
Conclusion: Abu Dhabi is the perfect destination for winter sun and for exclusive escapes - the temperature rarely dips below 22 degrees, and it's only a seven hour flight from London. So our only question is: what are you waiting for?
For more information on luxury holidays to Abu Dhabi, contact Original Travel.
Guaranteed sunshine isn’t the only reason our consultants love the United Arab Emirates. With superb hotels, world-class restaurants and a diverse array of experiences, we can craft itineraries to suit all types of travellers. When it comes to activities, we can arrange trips to hotspots like Dubai’s iconic Burj Khalifa, along with more unusual places like futuristic hydroponic farms. Even downtime is never dull in the UAE, as our properties offer everything from rooms nestled next to waterparks to ocean-view suites. But fear not, as there is ample time to relax at one of our many favourite beach resorts or spas.
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Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri The Shangri-La is blessed with possibly the best view in Abu Dhabi, looking across the water to the imposing Sheikh Zayed Mosque. The look here is understated Arabian (except for the huge gold leaf lobby), and in total there are 214 spacious and very tastefully designed rooms and suites with either balconies or terraces looking out over that view, and with marble bathrooms.
28th June 2021 - United Arab Emirates Hotels
Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa The resort was designed to resemble a Bedouin encampment, and overlooks open plains and dune belts, with the Hajar Mountains in the distance. The suites each have a private veranda, a swimming pool surrounded by a wooden deck, and unhindered views of the desert. The restaurant serves delicious Mediterranean, Arabic and Asian-influenced cuisine, and has an alfresco terrace overlooking the dunes.
28th June 2021 - United Arab Emirates Hotels
After having my reservations about the place - I was pleasantly impressed with what Dubai has to offer. My journey... ...began like any good one should: with a glass of red wine and a comedy on an Emirates flight. Once I was off the plane I was greeted by a humidity I can only associate with some of my great travel memories. The first thing to do was head for a cocktail, naturally, at Souk Madinat - a shopping centre (and I use that word lightly) which appeared to have a Venice style canal running alongside some fine looking restaurants and bars.
28th June 2021 - United Arab Emirates Travel Inspiration
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