Dubai: Atlantis & Arabian Adventures
My first time to Dubai did not disappoint! My husband and I booked in at Atlantis, The Palm. It was magnificent. I wasn't sure what I would think of all the opulence associated with Dubai, but our room was classy and our stay was just right. The accommodations were so stellar! I was 5 months+ pregnant during the trip, so I really enjoyed the 5 star amenities! Atlantis, The Palm is unlike any other resort I've visited. Why? There are so many reasons. What separated it for me initially is the whole place is ocean-themed. There is a HUGE aquarium full of all manner of exotic creatures smack dab in the middle of the hotel! It's called the Lost Chambers and takes you through underwater passageways giving you a peek at the history of ancient Atlantis. It was fun watching the kids smash their faces against the glass to try to kiss big fish, sting rays, sharks, etc. And I have to admit, I was doing the same thing as I always trying to 'Find Nemo!' ;-)
Atlantis offers an array of marine, entertainment, and dining attractions. You have probably seen pictures in magazines of the magnificent waterslides at the world renown Aquaventure Waterpark. The slides and wave pool are invigorating and the lazy river is relaxing. I enjoyed just lounging by the main pools too. You will definitely want to take a dip in the water. Dubai can be very hot!
There are a couple dozen dining destinations housed within the resort. You will definitely not go around hungry!! In fact, pack some pants with elastic waistbands because the buffets are off the charts if that's yo thangggg! Famous restaurants like Nobu and Gordon Ramsay's Bread Street Kitchen will tempt your senses! My favorite dishes at BSK include the chargrilled octopus and cauliflower and parmesan salad. My husband really enjoyed his steak too. The vibe is bustling but not too crazy. It's a good spot for a date or even to bring the kids. You can also pick up one of his cookbooks on your way out the door!
If you're looking to leave the resort one thing I recommend is checking out the Dinner in the Desert experience by Arabian Adventures. You will be shuttled from Atlantis to a location about an hour away in a protected desert. You will enjoy a nice sand dune surf, falcon display, belly dancing performance, and camel ride. You'll get to do all this while witnessing one of the most unique sunsets of your life withe the people you love, and chow down on some incredible native food. Oh... and ladies... BTW... I would definitely recommend getting a henna tattoo during the Arabian Adventures experience! I loved mine and it stayed for over a week!
Dubai is the perfect stopover between Europe and Australia. Here's a travelers' tip... Fly Emirates! I think you will enjoy the extra perks and pampering that are synonymous with the brand. If you have the time and want to spend a little extra, the Emirates Lounge is known for having fabulous food and every newspaper under the sun!
