Now that in most parts of the northern hemisphere it’s getting cold – and not just fall cold anymore, we’re talking winter cold as it is November after all and almost Christmas, we are all craving a little bit of winter sun. As most of us aren’t quite ready for winter just yet, let alone snow storms and the chilly winds why not jet off to some hot exotic country and enjoy the sun just that little bit longer?
Hello Dubai! You have the sun, sea and beautiful weather – total exotic hot spot. Why not check into Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa located near the beach in Dubai and close to Dubai Marina Mall, Dubai Marina, and The Emirates Golf Club – best of three worlds. You can get both some major down time in and start on some early relaxed Christmas shopping, before the madness of the festive dash. If you would rather opt for a different shopping experience, you can leave the mall and international brands you can find just about anywhere and instead get lost in the hustle and bustle of the souk. The bustling atmosphere and the eclectic array of goods are guaranteed to take you on not only a shopping spree but a sensory experience. And if you are a fan of gold jewellery, we certainly recommend you take a tour of the dazzling Gold Souk where you can buy gold at reasonable prices – if you’re prepared to haggle, that is.
And when you’re tired of shopping? There is plenty more to do in Dubai than just soak the sun rays on a pristine beach. Why not opt for a champagne brunch at Le Meridien‘s Yalumba or Spectrum on One in the Fairmont, each offering unlimited champagne (Moët and Laurent Perrier, respectively) to wash down prime steak, oysters and prawns For an alfresco experience, Mina A’ Salam Brunch is excellent, with outdoor seating, live cooking stations and a kids’ club. Or if you’re one for a cocktail-on-the-beach, head to Le Meridien Mina Seyahi’s Barasti, the city’s only beach bar.
And surely, you cannot visit one of the most famed capitals of the world without taking in the bird’s eye views. The vista you are met with At The Top, Burj Khalifa’s observation deck located on level 124 of the world’s tallest tower, will make your visit worthwhile. You can also enjoy views from the top at Oopen-air 360 Degrees, with its rooftop bar within and Bar 44 in the Grosvenor House, both offering grand views of the city.
Or we suggest a whole new experience where you can take in miles and miles of sand tunes with a hot-air balloon flights over the dessert at sunrise. If however you’re not a fan of heights, you can always stay grounded and enjoy the tranquility from the rooftop of the plush desert escape Bab Al Shams.
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And while you can sample some of the best international cuisine and pay for the privilege handsomely, you can also opt for a whole new culinary experience which will not break the bank. Winner of Best Budget category at Time Out Dubai awards in 2013, Bu Qtair is little more than a basic shack on the beach with plastic tables and chairs, offering a dining experience worlds away from the glitz of Burj Al Arab, Hilton Dubai Creek or the Grosvenor House. On offer are prawns, hammour, sheri and whatever the catch of the day is, alongside curry sauce, naan, rice. Cheap and cheerful, but definitely worth a visit.
Oh, room suggestion, check out one of the top floor rooms at Le Royal Meridien, complete with superb sea views, neutral and spacious, maximum comfort and service staff who attend to your every whim #wishyouwerehere
