Abu Dhabi

Sonia Brobbin on 30 October 2017
When the UK weather takes a turn for the worst, you immediately think hot, beach direct flights/short flights – Canaries! Well how about Abu Dhabi?

It took 6.5 hours direct on Etihad in which was superb, the product on board is fantastic whether you travel in economy or business class. The staff was attentive and made us feel comfortable from check in to arriving. The entertainment system is excellent and kept my 2 young children happy.

Including in my service is arrival meet and greet, you are simply met from the aircraft and escorted through Immigration, assisted with bags and handed over to your driver.

I stayed at the delightful Ritz Carlton Grand Canal, such a great hotel with plenty on offer for all. Located on the canal and right opposite the Grand Mosque which is stunning day and night. The rooms and suites are lovely, it’s a big hotel having approx. 400 rooms, but it never felt overcrowded in any way. The rooms are modern contemporary, not really designed to suit the country but lovely and comfortable. They also have garden houses surrounding the hotel which are private and offer more bedrooms to suit a larger family. Personally, I would always stay in the main hotel.

The pool area is fantastic and so much space, great for adults and children and overlooking the canal which was great. I could sit and enjoy the heat have a coffee in peace whilst my children played.

The hotel has plenty of dining options to suit all, they also have an ice cream parlour which so much choice and delicious. Situated right next to the hotel is the Venetian Village teaming with restaurants and nightlife. Steak, Japanese, Arabic, Indian, Spanish – so much choice!

A must is the Sundowner Tour, starting with an exciting safari in the sand dunes followed by meal and drinks in a traditional camp, watching a belly dancer, riding the camels, henna tattooing, trying on the traditional cloths, plus you get to sand ski which is hard but brilliant.

A city tour is great, as you get to see different parts of Abu Dhabi, the date market, the fish market, the royal residences, Yas Island - home to Formula One, karting, cycling round the circuit – so much to do for adults and children.

Whilst I was there I visited the Yas Viceroy, Emirates Palace, St Regis Abu Dhabi and the Shangri La - all fabulous hotels and located in different parts of Abu Dhabi. Each hotel has something different to offer.

I dined at Atayeb at the Yas Viceroy overlooking the Formula One Circuit – amazing and if you're too hot they have A/C units outside – winner!

Try something different - Abu Dhabi is a great place and such great value for money. Contact me for more information on 01625 836540