Abu Dhabi | The Adventure Travel Site

A Night-out in the Desert

An ocean of sand and an expansive sky stretch above and before you in Abu Dhabi’s Rub al Khali or ‘The Empty Quarter’. The proportions of this desert are simply astounding and provide innumerable opportunities to have fun. You wouldn’t be in a conundrum when choosing between a day or night safari in the desert. Night-time in the desert will activate your imagination and allow for relaxation and adventure. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is perfectly located and is a Liwa Desert resort that will give you multiple opportunities to traverse the desert. A night-out in this desert is beyond unforgettable.

Choose to explore the desert in a Hummer. It will be both a smooth and bumpy ride on the seemingly insurmountable sand dunes.

Evening approaches, and your constant companion, the gleaming disk of gold would quietly retire. Watching its quiet retreat is a treat to the eyes and soul. It’s a perfect sunset. As you prepare to gobble a hearty meal, you will be taken aback by the lithe bodies and glittering outfits of the belly dancers. Experiment with hookah shisha pipes while also listening to soothing music.

Later on in the evening, dinner is served. It is certainly a lavish spread with succulent meats grilled to perfection, salads and rice. Happily stuffed, you can now retire onto your humble mattress. From within your tent a sparkling sky is revealed. Identify the constellations, name the planets and drop off to a comfortable sleep while counting the stars.
Once again, the golden disk peeps through the sand dunes and you will witness a breathtaking sunrise. This is the beauty of a night-out in the desert of Abu Dhabi, where you can enjoy the beauties of dawn and dusk.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Cruising and Fishing in Abu Dhabi

Generally, a holiday in the Middle East entails camel rides, traversing through deserts over sand dunes, some shopping for electronics and recreation at theme parks. However, that may have been in the past; now with the advent of 5-star hotels Abu Dhabi, a plethora of opportunities are available for those who reside at Eastern Mangroves Hotel and Spa by Anantara or any other luxurious accommodation. The capital city of the highly acclaimed United Arab Emirates is cosmopolitan, commercialized and advanced, yet it is also steeped in its own culture, thus offering a wide mix of options to tourists.

For instance, if you are more of a night creature, you can engage in the boat riding adventure under the star spangled sky in a traditional dhow where you will be served a lavish meal while you enjoy the Abu Dhabi skyline from the lulling waves or the expanse of water of the Gulf Sea. The quest in search of pearls is a great learning experience in addition to being a relaxing voyage over the waves for over one and a half hours. There is a competent guide who unravels the stories of the past with respect to pearl discovery and everyone is shown how a pearl is extracted from a natural oyster. There are special tours for fishing which usually commence in the wee hours of the day and such a tour typically requires four hours. There are mariners who will provide their expertise, equipment, boat and even the fishing bait should you make a hurried decision to go fishing.

One can choose between dhows, speed boats, and yachts depending on the type of journey and the occasion. The organizers of the sea riding facilities have a diverse range of services on offer including deep sea fishing, BBQs, swimming, snorkeling and even hosting birthday parties or wedding receptions on board. They also arrange team building activities followed by a camping trip for corporate entities.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world.Google+

Mangrove Kayaking

A mention of the Middle East brings to mind images of rolling sand dunes and endless desert. The cities are built up with gleaming steel and glass but only a short distance away from Abu Dhabi’s city center is Sir Bani Yas Island. A stark contrast to what you would expect, the island is occupied by the tranquil Arabian Wildlife Park. It is also home to several historical sites, world class purpose-built stables and Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort.

Among the many Sir Bani Yas Island activities are spa retreats, nature watching safaris and adventure activities that are available on the island. It has been named a ‘World’s Leading Tourism Destination’. A favourite activity on the island is mangrove kayaking. You will be guided through the impressive mangroves of Abu Dhabi by an expert who will also teach you about the role these unique plants play in the coastal system. The low tides are better for spotting birds, crabs and fish that call the area home but the high tide allows deeper exploration of the mangroves.

Kayaking through the mangroves is not a dangerous activity, it is easy to learn and one that is available all year round in Abu Dhabi. The experienced guides are on hand to help and instruct; they are also trained in emergency response and equipped with first aid kits. You will be provided with a sturdily build kayak of a reputed brand and a life jacket. Guests can expect to get wet, therefore clothes suitable for watersports are recommended along with sensible footwear. In sunny weather it is best to bring a hat and plenty of waterproof sunscreen. A towel and change of clothes may come in handy after your excursion. There are several great photo opportunities to be had on the water for those who have access to water resistant equipment.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Welcome to Dune Bashing in Abu Dhabi

A holiday to the world famous capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi, isn’t complete until you hop in to a 4-wheel drive and steer your way through the enormous dunes that make up the desert expanse. With an abundance of high dunes and sand valleys, dune bashing is one of the Emirate’s most popular sporting activities.

For those who aren’t in the know, dune bashing is the practice of off-roading on large sand dunes. An experienced driver will drive a four-wheel vehicle straight up and over the dunes, sometimes letting the wheels leave the ground. Vehicles driven on dunes may come equipped with a roll cage in case of an overturn so don’t worry if you see one, it’s just for safety purposes. Adrenaline junkies are definitely going to enjoy the fast-paced action of these much-loved Abu Dhabi Excursions.

Due to the intense heat of the desert, dune bashing usually takes place in the early hours of the morning or late afternoon, to ensure the sand is hard enough to drive on. If you’re staying at a resort that is closely situated near the desert, like the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara for example, check if the resort can organise the dune-bashing excursion for you. It’ll be an easier, more reliable option that’ll take you straight from the comfort of your room to the dunes, minus the long drives out into the desert.

Alternatively, there are several licensed operators offering dune bashing packages that either come at a set rate or can be either tailor made to suit your needs, at a higher price of course. Most will combine dune bashing with a desert safari so once you’re done racing through over the dunes; you can sit back, relax and take in the stark beauty of the dunes and the indigenous plants that inhabit the desert.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Camel Riding

What is an Arabian escape without a camel back ride? The camels of Arabia are considered as an important icon of these nations. The UAE which is a hot spot for tourists are not short them! The capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi hosts thousands of tourists each year. Camels which have been a major part of the Arabian civilisation have now become part of recreational activities for tourists. Most resorts and private operators offer camel back rides. One of the renowned resorts that organise camel rides as a part of their Abu Dhabi Resort Tour is the renowned Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.

The best time to embark on this journey would be the early hours of the day or close to sunset. Camelback rides are regarded as one of the best ways to explore the vast majority of the deserts of Abu Dhabi. The camels are often referred to as the ships of the desert, one will agree with the term once they hop on a camel back. It’s not made in reference to the speed of the motion but how the passengers sway back and forth and sideways while on a camel back. Most tourists who jump on a camel often think the lump on the camel back is the water stored, however, it is the mechanism of storing fat.

The rides can be exhausting due to the heat, hence, most stop for refreshments at camps that depict the ancient Emirati life. These rides are also an excellent way to experience the old and modern architecture of the Middle East. The packages can range from a few hours to an entire day. So if you plan on visiting Abu Dhabi make sure to include a camel back ride in your agenda.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

Google+

THE EMPTY QUARTER

Middle East is one of the favourites among tourists from both ends of the world, it’s location as well as the various activities and attractions have managed to amuse tourists. The UAE is one of the far more advanced countries in the region and more popular among the tourists. Abu Dhabi has been a top pick for tourists in the recent times. There are plenty of things for tourists to do while here. What is a Middle Eastern adventure without camel rides and a luxury desert resort? Abu Dhabi has got it all!

Regarded as the world’s largest uninterrupted sand masses, Rub Al Khali translates to “quarter of emptiness ” has some of the largest sand dunes and large desert masses. Many tourists who come to Abu Dhabi make it a point to visit the Empty Quarter to get the ultimate desert experience. If you wish to spend more than a day taking in all the beauty of the desert then there are various accommodation providers in close proximity. A highly recommended option among the many available is Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.

The Empty Quarter rose to its fame in the 1940s’ and 50s’ due to British explorer Wilfred Thesiger. The Qasr Al Sarab or Mirage Palace is straight out of a fairy tale! However for thousands of years this area was resisted by settlements due to the scorching heat and dry climate. However the fringes of the empty quarter were home to nomadic settlements.Located in the middle of the desert the palace is a must visit. To explore the endless dunes there are various safaris offered by the resorts in around the desert as well as private operators. Explore on a camel back or in a Jeep at dawn or dusk.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Self-Guided Walk in Abu Dhabi

A booming tourist destination in the Middle East is Abu Dhabi. Competing with its fellow Emirates, it still has managed to be in the forefront in terms of tourism. One of the best ways to explore and make the most of a city is to stroll around it; one’s self is the best tour guide. When considering Abu Dhabi as your next holiday destination, one of the key questions that pop up in one’s mind is accommodation during the stay. Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara is an excellent choice to stay while here as this beach resort Abu Dhabi is located on the famous Sir Bani Yas Island the hotel is nothing but a symbol of luxury, offering many indoor as well outdoor activities to complete the exotic vacation.
A self-guided walk in Abu Dhabi should be able to cover most of the important landmarks in the city. One of the places to make a stop would be the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, an iconic landmark that has 82 impressive white domes.

Bainunah Roundabout Fountain is one of the other pit-stops worth making, located on the Bainunah Roundabout by the Zalamat Garden the fountain is considered both breathtaking and miraculous and perfectly complements the surrounding.

Abu Dhabi Corniche is yet another exciting place to explore on a walking tour. The 6-kilometer-long road is a not to miss when visiting Abu Dhabi. This is considered to be the border of the city and has many gardens along the way.
There are many other interesting landmarks and attractions in this beautiful Middle Eastern City for you to explore.

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.
Google+

Nature and Wildlife Walks in Abu Dhabi

In the 21st century, the Middle East is known well for its abundant and thriving oil industry, which has contributed to the development of the region in the last fifty years. One country that has benefited greatly from this discovery is the United Arab Emirates. Located in the Middle Eastern region, the United Arab Emirates is composed of seven Emirates, namely, Umm al-Quwain, Fujairah, Sharjah, Ras al-Khaimah, Ajman, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Given the present perception of the Middle East, many would be surprised to know that the emirate of Abu Dhabi was a haven for wildlife prior to its rapid development due to the discovery of oil in the mid-twentieth century. This natural heritage is evident in the name Abu Dhabi as well, which literally means ‘Father of the Gazelle’, as well as Sir Bani Yas Island which is a reputed wildlife reserve in the United Arab Emirates.

Hotels in Sir Bani Yas Island are scarce with given the status of the island as a bird sanctuary in addition to a wildlife reserve. Therefore, for tourists who wish to reside on the island itself, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi can be recommended.

The emphasis placed on preserving and conserving wildlife in the emirate extends to initiatives outside the United Arab Emirates as well and the emirate has, on multiple occasions, organised events to raise awareness or protest against certain global initiatives in the form of wildlife walks. One such wildlife walk took place in March 2014 at the Abu Dhabi Wildlife Centre to raise awareness about Canned Hunting, a practice predominantly in South Africa where lions are bred for the industry and hunters are given the opportunity to shoot them in closed enclosures, and to protest the practice.

Abu Dhabi places great importance on such initiatives and encourages tourists to visit their wildlife reserves in the least disruptive manner possible as well.

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.

Google+

Rare opportunity to experience desert on a personal level Abu Dhabi

The mention of a Middle Eastern country brings into mind endless sand dunes and deserts, camels and infrastructure that is majestic. Abu Dhabi is among the popular tourists destinations in the Middle East. Abu Dhabi excursions include exploring its vast deserts that have so much to offer in terms of adventure. If you base yourself at a place such as Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara you can enjoy such experiences amidst Arabian luxury.

There are various tour operators offering various types of desert safaris. They are all different from one another and some can even be tailor made according to individual requirements. Abu Dhabi desert safaris attract both tourists and locals alike. One can choose to travel and explore the desert on camel back or opt for dune driving or wadi bashing.

For those who prefer to be up and active with the rising of the sun, there are morning packages offered. Most packages take a minimum of four hours, which includes dune bashing, sand skiing and camel rides. Options are also available for meals and relaxation in the campsites in the respective deserts.

The evening desert safaris are much cooler in terms of temperature and offer great memories to take back with you be it of star studded skies or spectacular sunsets. This again will take around four to six hours. Most people prefer to pick packages that include dinner and perhaps others perks such as belly dancing , smoking a shisha and just relaxing in the tents of the campsite.

The desert safaris are also an excellent way to learn more about the landscape as well as some of the rare flora and fauna found within these deserts. A trip to the UAE would not be complete without experiencing its deserts.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Google+

Excursions in Sir Bani Yas Islands, Abu Dhabi

Sir Bani Yas Islands are located off the South Western Coast of Abu Dhabi and is the largest natural island in Abu Dhabi. It was once Arabia’s largest Wild life reserve. However now due to the extensive conservation work the island is now home to thousands of free roaming animals. The island has surely been quite the popular destination among tourist as well , Hotels in Sir Bani Yas Islands are very much sought after by the tourist. One that has been highly accredited by tourist is the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort , Abu Dhabi, the resort is a perfect place to get an up close and personal experience with the wild life and at the same time soak in the Arabian sun.

There are huge variety of wild life in the islands including Arabian Oryx , Giraffes , Sea Turtles , Dolphins , deer and Somali Ostrich among many others. There are also well over one hundred species of birds to be found on the island which are endemic to the region. The species of mammals in the island are over thirty and is home to the endangered Arabian Oryx, there are about four hundred of them roaming freely in the island. In this island one could find some of the scavengers such as Sudan Cheetah and Striped hyena. There are other species of animals to be found here such as the Mount Gazelle and the Sand Gazelle.

There are a wide range of activities to do while in the islands such as do safaris to explore the wild life, there are also protected areas for snorkeling and kayaking. The islands wild life is so diverse and it is best to engage on guided tours to make the most of it.

The island also tries to be as sustainable as possible to protect this home of the various species.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

Google+