Lifestyle

Whether you’re soaking in serene natural beauty or diving into extravagant fun, the UAE offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable family getaway. From peaceful beaches and stunning landscapes to thrilling entertainment and luxurious indulgences, there’s something to delight every family member.

In Ras Al Khaimah, we explored serene landscapes, from tranquil locations to rugged mountains, providing a peaceful retreat. On the other hand, Dubai’s Atlantis The Palm swept us into a world of luxury and excitement, with its iconic waterpark, aquarium, and lavish experiences.

A World of Wonders

Just 45 minutes from Dubai lies Ras Al Khaimah, a serene escape offering a perfect blend of relaxation and understated luxury. Arriving at Dubai International Airport, we embarked on a scenic drive to the emirate, reaching our destination—The Cove Rotana Resort, a five-star retreat that is thoughtfully designed with family-friendly amenities that cater to guests of all ages. Our journey into calm began with a warm welcome at the resort, where the surroundings and architecture immediately set the tone for a laid-back getaway. The resort also features a 600-metre private beach and offers seven dining options to please every palate. At Basilico, the Mediterranean restaurant, we tried exquisite dishes bursting with flavours. Cinnamon, the all-day dining restaurant, provided an equally delightful spread. With two infinity pools inviting us to soak up the sun, a live cooking demonstration, and captivating performances in the evening, our stay at property was nothing short of magical.

Day 2:

On our second day in the emirate, after a delightful breakfast, we had the chance to immerse ourselves in the rich heritage of Ras Al Khaimah, exploring iconic landmarks such as Dhayah Fort, Suwaidi Pearls, the RAK National Museum, and Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village.

Perched on a hilltop with panoramic views, Dhayah Fort stands as a proud symbol of Ras Al Khaimah’s military past. The breathtaking views from the top, with the jagged mountains on one side and the lush date palms on the other, are well worth the climb.

No visit to Ras Al Khaimah would be complete without experiencing its connection to the pearl diving industry, and a visit to Suwaidi Pearls provides just that. The experience began with a tour of the pearl farm, where we learnt about the process of pearl cultivation. We also received an insightful demonstration on how oysters are nurtured to produce the precious gems. Afterwards, we enjoyed a delicious Emirati lunch and concluded our tour with a visit to a charming boutique, where we were able to purchase jewellery made from the finest pearls

For those wanting to dive even deeper into the history of Ras Al Khaimah, the RAK National Museum is a must-visit. Located in the former palace of the ruling family, the museum offers an in-depth look at the emirate’s cultural evolution. It is home to a diverse collection of exhibits, ranging from ancient artefacts to traditional clothing and tools.

Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village, the country’s last remaining heritage pearling village is like stepping back in time to experience the traditional life of Ras Al Khaimah’s residents before the modernisation of the UAE. This well-preserved village is a glimpse into the past, where the buildings, including houses, mosques, and wind towers, are constructed using traditional materials. The village is also home to a wealth of significant heritage buildings that have remained remarkably intact. Notable landmarks within the village include the Abdul Kareem House, Bin Dulum House, Masjid Bint Samikh, and Bin Omran House.

Day 3:

Our day began with a drive to Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the UAE. As we made our way up the winding roads, the lush valleys gave way to rocky cliffs and the air became crisp. Next on the agenda was the Jais Flight, the longest zipline in the world. The setup at the launch station was impressive, with safety measures in place and expert instructors ready to guide us. After the thrilling zipline experience, it was time to refuel with a leisurely lunch at 1484 by Puro, a restaurant named after the mountain’s elevation and perched at the top of Jebel Jais.

After lunch, we made our way to Camp 1770, the highest camp in the UAE. Our guide shared insights about the area, and it was here that we had the unique opportunity to be in two countries at once—standing in both the UAE and Oman simultaneously. As the sun began to set, we were treated to an authentic Emirati dinner, marking the perfect end to our action-packed day.

Day 4:

After a hearty breakfast, we set off for the Bedouin Oasis Desert Camp, ready to dive into a true desert experience. Our day began with a thrilling desert safari, where we soared over the golden sand dunes. Next, we made our way to the Al Jazeera Aviation Club for an unforgettable aerial adventure. There, we boarded a light aircraft for a short tour that provided a whole new perspective of Ras Al Khaimah’s landscapes. The flight offered breathtaking views of the desert, mountains, and coastline, and for an added thrill, we had the chance to co-pilot the plane.

Everything You Desire, All in One Place

Nestled on the shimmering shores of the Arabian Gulf, Atlantis The Palm stands as a beacon of luxury, entertainment, and adventure. This iconic resort spans 46 hectares and offers guests of all ages the perfect blend of relaxation, gourmet dining, thrilling experiences, and endless fun. With its extensive list of world-class amenities and experiences, a two-night staycation at Atlantis The Palm was nothing short of spectacular. Here's a glimpse of what an unforgettable escape at this magnificent destination looked like.

Day 1:

Upon arrival at Dubai International Airport, it’s just a short drive to Atlantis The Palm, and the excitement begins the moment you step onto the resort grounds. Checking in is a breeze and if you have the Imperial Club Lounge access you will enjoy a host of exclusive perks that guarantee an unforgettable stay.

Our culinary journey kicked off at the renowned Bread Street Kitchen & Bar by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay. The vibrant atmosphere and mouth-watering menu featuring classic British dishes with a contemporary twist set the perfect tone for the day. The Koffmann's Fries and Mushroom Cannelloni are must-tries, pairing perfectly with a chilled drink.

After lunch, it was time to explore The Lost Chambers Aquarium, an underwater wonderland that houses over 65,000 marine animals. Walking through the mesmerising tunnels, we were surrounded by exotic sea life. The tranquil ambiance offered a serene contrast to the excitement awaiting at the resort.

Next, we went to the Aquaventure Beach for an exhilarating Dubai Balloon experience. Soaring above the water, we took in breathtaking aerial views of Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis, and the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea. This bucket-list experience provided a unique perspective of Dubai's grandeur.

We wrapped up our first day with a fiery, Latin-inspired dinner at En Fuego. The sizzling Latin cuisine and vibrant ambiance were the perfect way to continue the adventure. One should not forget to indulge in one of their signature drinks for the ultimate dining experience.

Day 2:

We started our day with a lavish breakfast at Saffron, Atlantis' renowned buffet restaurant. From freshly baked pastries to live cooking stations, there’s something for everyone. The sprawling buffet features global flavours, ensuring you are fuelled for a day of adventure ahead.

After breakfast, we got ready for a day of adrenaline-pumping fun at the world’s largest waterpark, Aquaventure. With more waterslides than any other waterpark globally, this is where your inner thrill-seeker truly comes alive. Brave the Tower of Neptune and the Aquaconda, the world’s largest waterslide. And one should not miss the lazy river, which provides a relaxing break in between.

After hours of water fun, we madeour way to Wavehouse for lunch, where the beachy vibe and relaxed atmosphere offer the perfect setting for a laid-back meal. Indulge in classic comfort food like burgers, pizzas and pastas while enjoying live music and watching people try their hand at the wave simulator.

The afternoon brought a heartwarming experience at Dolphin Bay, where we tried kayaking alongside playful dolphins in their natural habitat. We paddled through the crystal-clear waters while interacting with these intelligent and friendly creatures. The experience was both magical and memorable.

No staycation is complete without an unforgettable dinner, and Hakkasan delivered just that. The Michelin-starred restaurant offers exquisite Cantonese cuisine, with signature dishes. We tried the Grilled Vegetarian Shanghai Dumpling, the Tofu, Aubergine and Mushroom and Edamame Fried Rice—each bursting with flavour and showcasing mastery. The sophisticated setting and impeccable service make it a perfect conclusion to a thrilling day.

Day 3:

On our final morning, we indulged in a lavish breakfast at Kaleidoscope, another one of Atlantis' famous buffet restaurants. With a wide selection of international dishes and an array of fresh fruit and juices, it was the perfect start to our last day at the resort.

After breakfast, we took some time to explore the resort’s numerous attractions and breathtaking architecture. We wandered through the expansive grounds and visited the luxury boutiques for some shopping. The beauty of Atlantis The Palm really does lie in its ability to offer both tranquil spaces and exciting experiences in one place.

Before bidding farewell, we made our way to WHITE Beach for one last meal with a view. This beachside restaurant is known for its chic ambiance, refreshing drinks, and Mediterranean-inspired menu. Whether you're enjoying a light salad or indulging in grilled food, the picturesque surroundings make it an unforgettable experience. The highlight, however, was the White Lemon Cheesecake—a dessert so divine it lingered on our taste buds and in our memories..