Abu Dhabi

I was lucky enough to visit the capital of the UAE and it is a land of true contrasts. Over the few days I was there I experienced the cultural highlights of Abu Dhabi City and its islands and beauty of the surrounding desert.

Our base for the trip was the luxurious Ritz Carlton situated on the Abu Dhabi Grand Canal, 20 minutes from the airport with stunning views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

During the trip we visited some beautiful hotels, each offering something different:-

Crowne Plaza Yas Island - Enter the vibrant deep blue, turquoise and gold designed lobby at Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island and relax in the lavish spherical booths hanging from the high ceiling or head to your suite for a soothing snuggle in luxury bedding. The Palm, Dubai's spectacular palm-shaped island, is the emirate's pre-eminent landmark and at its apex stands Atlantis, The Palm: a hotel in a class of its own.

Emirates Palace - Emirates Palace offers unprecedented luxury in the heart of Abu Dhabi, with a 1.5km private beach, 85 hectares of landscaped gardens, private butlers, 302 luxury rooms and 92 opulent suites.

St Regis Saadiyat - Situated on the peaceful shores of Saadiyat Island and only 30 minutes from the airport. 377 rooms and suites, all with balconies, a championship golf course nearby, five swimming pools and the signature St Regis Butler Service, all readily available.

There's plenty to see and do in Abu Dhabi and my highlights were:-

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi’s - Home to record-breaking roller coasters!

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque - Voted one of the Top 10 Must-Visit landmarks of the world by Trip Advisor, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has a capacity for an incredible 40,000 worshippers.