The "Wild Side of Abu Dhabi!"
A small group of Travel Counsellors met at Dublin airport at 7:30 where we were warmly welcomed by our “Etihad Airways” representative. The excitement was buzzing as we checked in for our business class flight to Abu Dhabi. After a fabulous tour and breakfast in the East Side Lounge at Dublin Airport, we were on our way to start our adventure.
Etihad business class was unbelievable- prosecco on take-off, delicious menu to order from, the most attentive and friendly staff and a flat bed with the fluffiest of blankets ensured that we got some rest!
On arrival in Abu Dhabi, we were transferred to port where we were warmly greeted by the staff of Anantara Resorts before boarding our very own luxurious private speed boat! This was a super exciting 20-minute transfer to the lovely “Sir Bani Yas Island”. Here, we were greeted by friendly the staff at the Desert Island Resort and Spa with delicious snacks and drinks. Being 1am local time, we all then headed off to our magnificent rooms to freshen up for the next day of our Adventure. The Sea Facing rooms were simply luxurious and classy. I felt like I was in a Palace and not in a hotel. The Décor was tasteful and absolute perfection!
One of my most exciting moments of this adventure was waking up on that first morning on Sir Bani Yas Island, having arrived at night we had no idea of the beauty that surrounded us. I ran to the window and opened my curtains to be greeted by the bluest sky, and the most magnificent sea views! I could not wait to get out there and explore!
After the most delicious breakfast, we headed off for a Safari Drive. Being South African, my expectations were low. (I mean how on earth could we be going on a Safari Drive in Abu Dhabi!?)
I was completely mistaken here – this turned into the most unique experience where we had the most spectacular views of the entire Island. We were surrounded by Arabian Oryx grazing in their natural environment. We saw Ostrich, Gazelle and my highlight was being able to walk with the Giraffe! (You would not get this anywhere else in the world!)
After a delicious lunch at Al Yamm Villa resort, we had the opportunity to inspect the properties that Anantara have to offer on this magical Island. We all agreed that we felt like we were sitting in the Maldives and that these Private Villas that we viewed were spectacular and that they would be extremely easy to sell to our clients.
We then went back to the hotel for cocktails at the pool, sundowners and then we had a Traditional Arabic Meal brought to us at our own private table set up for us on the beach! Here we ate, drank and laughed underneath the stars! It was wonderful to share this time with the with the lovely staff of Anantara and our incredible Etihad Representative who all made us feel like Royalty! Some of the unique selling points that stood out to me about this magical Island were that it was not too big, which makes it easy to explore the entire Island, it also gives you a sense of feeling like you are away from EVERYTHING, yet you still have complete luxury around you and plenty to do! I will certainly be going back!
On day three we woke up and started our transfer to Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort. This drive took us three hours, and I found it very interesting as we passed through many local towns and it was fascinating to see the local buildings as well as a little glimpse into everyday life in Abu Dhabi.
On arrival at the resort, were we surrounded by the never-ending spectacular flame-coloured dunes like a mirage that stretch into Saudi Arabia. We felt like we had been transported to another planet!
We then had delicious welcome drinks, a site inspection (every single room has amazing views, and the level of luxury is something that I have never experience before!) The big surprise was then revealed - we had each been given our own Private Villa with a Pool for the night and the following day! We were then escorted by golf buggies to our luxurious Villas where we were given some time to chill! The views were magnificent, the Villa was pure luxury, the attention to details was unbelievable, and I could not help myself but jump straight into my own private pool! I then spent some time taking it all in from my very own veranda.
The pool area in the resort was fabulous and we spent an hour here ordering snacks, taking in the desert views and enjoying a much needed cool down! That evening as I was heading out, what struck me was the incredibly clear skies and stars that lit the entire sky- truly magical! After a delicious dinner that night, involving wine tasting and much laughter we were taken back to our Villas by golf buggies for the best night sleep ever!
Early morning on day 4 we headed out into the desert for a one-hour Camel Ride- I thoroughly enjoyed this experience and highly recommend it! We learnt so much about the environment around us and our Guide was extremely friendly and knowledgeable. (and also very patient as it took some courage, laughter and squeals to get us ladies up high onto those Camels backs!) The rest of our day involved relaxation at the pool, a delicious lunch and enjoying our beautiful Villas before it was time to pack up and head to Abu Dhabi.
That night we were privileged to inspect the Famous “W Hotel” which is located on the Formula One track in Abu Dhabi! The atmosphere here was bustling with nightlife and I would love to go back and spend a night. Sadly, our adventure had now come to an end as we made our way to the airport to pick up some Duty Free and enjoy a luxurious trip back with Etihad Airways.
What an extraordinary trip that completely exceeded my expectations! With the direct 7-hour flight operating from Dublin, the guarantee of fabulous hot weather and the most delicious food and friendly service - Abu Dhabi I will certainly be back to share a piece of your magic with my family!!