Having lived in Dubai for over ten years, I have been fortunate to visit Desert Palm on a few occasions (including a previous dining experience at Rare), and have always been impressed with how out of town it manages to feel, with remaining so close to the city. For those not in the know, essentially, if you drive just a few minutes past Dragon Mart, nearish to the new Dubai Safari, you’ll reach this urban oasis. In a city full of large properties, Desert Palm, with a limited number of keys (including suites and villas) feels immediately intimate and relaxed, without even trying. Overlooking polo fields — yes, you read that right — this is definitely outside the norm. Feeling good about today! Finished writing a book, submitted an article, went to the gym, and really looking forward to my trip to Tbilisi on Wednesday. • Of course, I’d be…
The post Desert Palm, Samāna Spa, & Rare: A triple threat close to town. appeared first on A TO ZA’ATAR.
]]>As an author of a book taking place entirely in a hotel, there is literally nothing I love more than visiting a new hotel. I love lobbies and people watching. I love clean sheets and breathtaking views. I love luxury toiletries and staying in bed for hours. Fortunately, the Viceroy Palm Jumeirah delivers on the new hotel ideal in spades. I’ll start by disclosing that while the hotel was caught off guard over Easter weekend, they seem to be taking the TripAdvisor feedback quite seriously and from my interactions at the hotel, are well on their way to providing professional service and hospitality. All the Yes While I thought the Fairmont Fujairah had my favorite designed room in the UAE, I now realize the Viceroy’s effortlessly Art Deco-esque vibe is something I would love to recreate in a future home. My love of the room extends so much that today…
The post Viceroy Palm Jumeirah, Dubai: Miami vibes and beautiful skylines. appeared first on A TO ZA’ATAR.
]]>Have you ever had a dream property in a city? No? Just me? I’ve got a few fantasy destinations picked out in most places and the One&Only has long (loooooong) been on my list for Dubai. (Also worth noting: the Al Maha Resort and Nurai Island, along with the Chedi Muscat and Zighy Bay in Oman). With a combination of the need for a staycation combined with our 13th wedding anniversary, I decided this was the time to pull the trigger. Looking on Booking.com, there were some good deals running (especially as the Eid holiday was about to start last week). Given a choice, I will nearly always pick a Club Room — we haven’t had a bad experience in one yet. Having access to a good (free) cocktail hour tends to be a great start to an evening. Furthermore, booking a higher category room tends to lead to upgrades on…
The post One&Only Royal Mirage Dubai… Or, the Residences. appeared first on A TO ZA’ATAR.
]]>