Dubai is a place I’ve always been drawn to. From the glitzy brunches and the bougie beach clubs, to the out-of-this-world water parks, spectacular skyscrapers and super luxe shopping scene. This exciting emirate quite literally has it all.
You might visit Dubai for all of the above, you might visit for a beach break – but one thing you’re guaranteed to get here is a buzzy vibe and beautiful weather.
It’s at the top of its game when it comes to all things luxury. Indeed, is evident as soon as you step off the plane – or indeed on the plane, with a fantastic service from start to finish on Emirates flights, direct from the North East.
We’re here to ‘do Dubai a little differently’ as we settle in for a sun-soaked weekender on the wonderful World Islands, just 4km into the Arabian Gulf.
A Dream Come True…
A unique invitation to escape to a place where time stands still – a place where the turquoise blue waters and white sand beaches do all the talking.
A guest-only resort where you feel worlds away from the city lights, although with panoramic views of the skyline. It’s the perfect spot for a dual-destination Dubai trip.
Additionally, we have discovered something quite incredible in Anantara’s new World Islands Dubai Resort. Go here for a taste of secluded island paradise without hopping on and off multiple flights and travelling for days.
Dubai has been on my travel bucket list for some time now, however having recently grown into a family of three, I wondered if we would find it difficult to travel there with a baby in tow.
The vision I had of the city, after getting snippets of Dubai living online, was this ultramodern, high-end, busy metropolis in the beaming sunshine.
All of that it is, but in addition to that, with clever new developments such as Anantara’s World Island Resort. We’re thrilled to hear that we can get the best of both worlds – tropical island bliss, and that sparkling skyline.
The Arrival
The World Islands are an archipelago of artificial islands in the waters of the Persian Gulf, depicting the shape of a world map. Some islands are not yet developed, however, we were lucky enough to revel in the luxury of the replica ‘South America’ island.
After a smooth overnight Emirates flight direct from Newcastle, we arrive at Anantara The Palm. We are greeted with refreshments before a friendly porter leads us to the hotel’s mini marina.
A short, 20-minute boat ride brings us to the island, lapped up by tranquil white sand beaches. Palm trees sway in the gentle breeze and gorgeous greenery greets us.
We instantly feel like we’ve been whisked away to a faraway place like the Maldives; made to feel like we are checking into our very own private island.
Accommodation
After a speedy in-room check-in, we’re left to enjoy our beautiful One Bedroom Garden Pool Villa, and just footsteps from the sand.
The room is effortlessly stylish. A chic beach shack feel with a five-star, contemporary edge and all the luxury mod cons you’d expect from an exclusive city pad.
A stand-alone bath and huge rainfall shower are the key bathroom features, while a huge super-king bed and a spectacular high ceiling.
Huge floor-to-ceiling windows and a patio door opens up to the decked terrace, complete with plunge pool and loungers.
The peaceful white sand beach is just a few steps from the suite, where you can bask on sunbeds, or find thrill-seeking fun at the water sports centre.
We kickstart our getaway with a dip in the sea and a slurp of a cocktail.
Things To Do
Those people looking for a little more adventure can find a whole host of activities. Be it in the hotel’s state-of-the-art fitness centre with views over the water towards Dubai, the water sports hub on the beach, or the kids club.
If the beautiful uniqueness of the island isn’t enough to blow you away, the food on offer certainly will. Shortly after our arrival, we wander over to Helios. It’s a Mediterranean-inspired beachfront restaurant serving sumptuous seafood and colourful dishes that match the environment.
Fresh fish and a couple of sundowners to settle us into our indulgent island getaway.
As the sun starts to sink into the horizon, we kick off our flip-flops and enjoy light bites and cocktails at Luna. – a relaxed space at the very heart of the island, and the perfect place to unwind before dinner.
Our dinner reservation is at Quamar – a restaurant of Arabic and Indian influence. There is an intimate ambience under the light of the moon, with incredible vistas over the World Islands.
Their speciality – sharing platters. So, we opt for the Quamar Signature Mix Grill – a vibrant selection of Arabic-style meats and fish.
The fish tandoori is effortlessly flaky and packs a spicy punch, and the lamb chops are melt-in-the-mouth delicious.
Our stay is topped off with a signature Island Lomi Lomi massage in the Anantara Spa. It’s a soothing sanctuary surrounded by the sounds of the ocean.
Conclusion
It’s the dreamiest treatment I’ve ever had as I drift away to find true balance and harmony.
The combination of natural island infusions, and good-for-the-soul products with healing properties, is a recipe for pure bliss.
Post-flight muscle tension melts away as I switch off to all but the sounds of the sea. Soon enough, finding inner calm along the way.
Indulgent dining and breathtaking interiors. This Anantara resort replicates exotic island life, and it has offered up a unique new take on a Dubai vacation.
And we’re confident in saying it’s something everyone must experience as part of a UAE getaway. Just minutes away from The Palm by speedboat.
A true luxe break where bustling city life meets sand-between-the-toes bliss. We can’t wait to return.
