Dubai
My senses are at once assailed, soothed and stimulated by the glitz and glamour of shopping malls the size of small villages; the feel of white silky soft beaches under my feet; glimpses of emerald green patches as we speed past the world class champion golf course; a 60 second elevator ride up to the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa - heart racing as we step out on to the viewing platform; stand in awe as the as watery dancers of the musical fountains cut swathes of glistening gyrating, swaying movement culminating in a crescendo of frothing jets of water hurtling skyward to a crescendo of majestic music; laze around on a catamaran; take a spin around the ice rink or ........wait for it.......speed down the snow ski slopes! Still think there won't be anything for you to do?
Need something to do in the evenings? They've got that covered too! Drive to the edge of the desert and climb aboard a 4 x 4 for a bit of dune bashing followed by cocktails at sunset on top of a dune. Continue to a desert camp for a traditional meal, plump cushions, henna lady, palm reader, traditional music and of course the inevitable belly dancer! Oh and there are night clubs, bars and restaurants everywhere - you will be spoilt for choice!
We were lucky enough to be hosted by the Westin Dubai, Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina. Oh my word......where to start! As your vehicle sweeps up the drive to the entrance you just know you're going to be in for a treat! Spacious rooms, well appointed bathrooms with separate bath and shower, hair dryer, a 14 layer heavenly bed with mounds of pillows - sheer bliss, giant TV, IDD, mini bar, tea/coffee making facilities, iron and ironing board, wi-fi, radio clock, in-room safe. Other facilities include a first class spa, various bars and restaurants, outdoor swimming pools, boutiques, business centre. The service is impeccable.
Got a peek at one of the rooms at the Amani Hotel - sleek, chic, sophisticated and distinctly Amani ! Royal Mirage is another resort style hotel with lush gardens, beautiful pool area, mediterranean style rooms and attentive staff.
We had our gala dinner at the Atlantis.........wow, wow and wow again! A meal fit for a king or Top Chef for that matter. With a couple of dozen waiters in attendance, dinner was a slick, smooth operation with cuisine delicious to the palate and exceptionally pleasing on the eye! What an experience.
A word of caution if you're looking for a beach holiday, consider going during their winter being October to May when it's slightly cooler and you can walk on the beach and enjoy the outdoors.
No matter the time of year, however, Dubai has something for everyone so whether its shopping, business, family holiday, honeymoon or just a quick break you're looking for - do consider Dubai for your next trip!