Tag: Abu Dhabi

Abra Boat Ride, a delightful excursion

In recent years the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has made a name for itself as a significant tourist destination. Fast developing into a cosmopolitan and forward-thinking city, Abu Dhabi attracts considerable numbers of corporate and cultural visitors in addition to the numerous expatriates who are based in the city. To really discover the spirit of this remarkable and alluring city the visitor should venture into its less modern, more traditional localities. One interesting experience all visitors to the city should not fail to try out is taking a ride on an abra, which is the name given to small vessels which are used as water taxis.

Before embarking on an abra boat ride make sure to find a suitable base from which to set off on your excursions. A great option would be to stay at Abu Dhabi beach hotels such as Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara which offers quality accommodations and courteous hospitality assuring a pleasurable stay.

To sample this traditional means of transport you must travel to Qaryat Al Beri where you may try out this form of transport which has survived over the course of many years. On the abra route the vessel will stop at an attractive market or suq where the visitor will find attractive merchandise of varying kinds.

Abu Dhabi is always a fascinating metropolis to explore, featuring attractive parks and gardens, appealing greenery-lined boulevards, modern high-rise constructions and lavish shopping centres. One of the city’s most alluring features is the splendid Corniche, which extends along the waterfront for no less than several miles. Along its extent you will find such attractions as inviting beaches, go-cart arenas and playgrounds.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Fat Biking

The UAE boasts the largest uninterrupted sand mass in the world; The Rub Al Khali meaning the ‘Empty Quarter’. The Kilometers of rolling Golden Sands untouched by urbanization happens to be one of the most inviting attractions of the UAE. After all a holiday in the UAE is just not complete without indulging a little in its famous stretches of golden velvet; that is how captivating it is. Despite feeling like expanses of nothing but sheer beauty, there is plenty to do in this endless stretch of dessert. Among the many activities, fat biking has of late earned tremendous popularity.

Fat biking was introduced to the UAE with the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Although relatively new to the Middle East, Fat biking has been in operation since the 1870. It started out being used in Alaska, a city known for its dense snow. Thanks to its large ‘Fat’ tires, it was easily maneuvered through thick snow. In UAE amidst the expanses of sand the same principle is applied. Large 12cm wide tires on a bicycle helps you to soar through the beautiful sand dunes. Despite how challenging the terrains maybe, fat biking helps you tackle them all with ease and adventure. To explore the intriguing peaks of Abu Dhabi, Fat biking happens to be the most perfect vehicle. In addition to all the fun and exquisite scenery you can enjoy while fat biking, there is a dual reward as well. In a session that makes up of around 1 to 2 hours, a good 7 to 10 kilometers can easily be covered; a perfect toning reward for your muscles on holiday.

In addition to Fat biking, there is plenty more that one can indulge in while exploring the desert side of UAE. Camel trekking is fun and gives you ample interaction with the kings of the animal kingdom of the Middle East. Then there is Sand boarding and 4×4 driving, again very adventurous activities to indulge in.

While holidaying in the UAE, stay at the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Being the best name in the Abu Dhabi Hotels it is also the finest luxury hotels Abu Dhabi has.

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+

Deep Sea Fishing Abu Dhabi

A holiday in Abu Dhabi is not merely a time to spend amidst sand dunes. Make it an unforgettable experience by taking up a deep sea fishing expedition in the Arabian Gulf. If you are seeking for an Abu Dhabi resort to unwind after an exciting day out, Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara is one of the top-rated Abu Dhabi beach hotels you can try out. If you are a seasoned fishing fanatic or an enthusiastic amateur, there are many service providers to accompany you to the top deep sea fishing spots and provide you with the necessary gear and guidance. Embark on your fishing expedition early morning as it is usually considered as the best time for deep sea fishing. You can either spend half a day or fish for the full-day as you please and nevertheless the experience would certainly be an unparalleled one.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry. Google+

Diving at Sir Bani Yas Island To Explore the Wonders of the Deep Blue Sea

The mighty waters of the deep blue seas lure and tempt the bold and adventurous to rush to battle her endless white tipped waves. The great blue depths are only for the daring and not the faint hearted who fear the crash of might of the limitless masses of water. But yet, the charm of the salted depths is so strong that to resist the temptation is at times, too much to ask for.

Sir Bani Yas Island holds a fascinating stretch of blue waters where waves are alluringly strong and the marine life down under is colourfully enthralling that even the beginner will feel the strong urge to dive in to the depths unknown. The Desert Island Watersports Centre on Sir Bani Yas Island will certainly please the masses of both beginners and experienced with the facilities provided to intimately connect with the mighty seas of the Arabian Gulf. Here beginners can learn the art of diving while the experienced divers can take their learning to a new level with the full PADI certification courses offered by highly qualified instructors. The beauty of the marine life hidden beneath the rippling surface of the Arabian Gulf, where coral reefs of many a shade glisten, can be witnessed on the Adventure Dive offered at the centre. The more experienced divers can participate in the Dive Master course of 7 days to boast of a stronger skill in the sport they love. One may also be qualified as a Rescue Diver, having undergone the training at the Watersports Centre, and claim a skill for life. The Watersports centre is well equipped with multiple lecture rooms as well as a 3 meter deep dive pool to effectively teach the art of diving to those who love to plunge in to the depths of the ocean.

Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villas which is one of the leading Abu Dhabi villas provide exclusive packages that combine the activities of the Watersports Centre with the luxurious accommodation to be found here in the resorts Abu Dhabi is famous for. Your perfect holiday will be indeed a memorable one with the ultimate combination of adventure and luxury.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Zayed Sports Ice Rink

During Christmas and especially around the winter season, one dreams contentedly of a white Christmas, filled with gentle snow falls, country sides covered in white snow, making of snow men and snow angels and enjoying a hot cup of cocoa by a warm and blazing fire. For others, ice skating in a nearby frozen pond or lake brings a different kind of joy as the icy wind gently touches one’s cheeks as they glide around gracefully on the ice.

Making this seasonal dream an all year around reality are ice rinks found across the world where people can enjoy some recreational skating or competitive skating which includes figure skating as well as sports such as ice hockey, rink bandy, ringette, aikido and speed skating. Some of these sports are also included in the list of Olympic Games and are thus, taken very seriously by most enthusiasts.

In terms of sports rinks, the Zayed Sports City Ice Rink located in Abu Dhabi, one of the emirates of the United Arab Emirates, deserves special mention. This rink boasts of being the city’s only skating surface which which has hosted a number of high level skating and ice hockey tournaments in the United Arab Emirates. It is also where the Abu Dhabi Figure Skating Team practices. The rink also offers amateurs with the option of coaching and includes a number of activities and services as well. Zayed Sports City Ice Rink is open from 9.00am to 10.00pm daily and is open only to ladies on Thursdays.

For those who are visiting the rink while staying at a hotel Abu Dhabi UAE, the rink is also home to a number of restaurants including Figaro’s Pizza. Therefore when one visits this eatery, one is in for quite a good time as the quality of meals provided will easily rival that of any Abu Dhabi hotel. The rink would also make for an ideal distraction if shopping is the purpose of your visit. Abu Dhabi being the shopping central of the Middle East, staying in the Grand Millennium Al Wahda will offer you with a multitude of malls, shops and more located within close proximity.

 

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.

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Cycling in Abu Dhabi

Cycling is a great environmentally friendly and fun way to see any city. Not only does it present a city in a different perspective but it is quicker than walking and therefore more sightseeing can be accomplished in a shorter space of time. Cyclists will not be stuck in traffic jams either. Besides cycling tours are suitable for all ages. Guided tours will provide historic and other interesting pieces of information on the surroundings and landmarks. Where there are clearly demarcated cycling tracks cyclists will generally not get entangled with traffic and one of the biggest advantages is it will allow access to areas not normally seen from a car.

Bicycle tour operators in Abu Dhabi provide the bicycles, helmets and a tour guide to take cyclists on the 8 mile route from the eastern to the western end of the Corniche which is the beachfront in the centre of the city. The duration of the trip and the times vary according to the seasons. The dedicated cycle pathways make it easy for riders to enjoy the seafront road and the various prominent features of the city’s skyline. Riders can also opt to venture out on their own. Among the types of cycles available are those that can accommodate up to three people at the back and special bikes for women in abayas.

Yas Island in Abu Dhabi is another popular and fast developing area with plenty of attractions that can be explored on a bike. Cycling paths sporting maps and signage, water stations and rest areas make Yas Island a pleasure to explore by bike by yourself or in a group. Bikes can be rented along with safety gear. Yas Island offers cycling tours both day and night. A longer distance of about 9 km is covered during the day trip while the night trip that starts at 6.30 pm and ends an hour later covers a distance of 5 km. Bikers can enjoy views of the Yas Marina, Yas Marina Circuit, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and other attractions. Biking for exercise and pleasure is also offered by some city hotels and the Abu Dhabi Golf & Equestrian Club. Yas Night at Yas Marina F1 Circuit held on Tuesday and some Sunday evenings providing cyclists the thrilling opportunity of using the track as an area for training.

Desert Island Resort & Spa by Anantara on Sir Bani Yas Island is the perfect place to stay to enjoy its unique environment, the habitat of 15,000 animals. Located close to mangroves, beach and bay this Abu Dhabi resort offers the ideal getaway for nature and adventure lovers. As one of award winning Abu Dhabi beach hotels guests are offered spacious and stylish modern rooms, suites and villas featuring original Middle Eastern art works, culinary offerings ranging from snacks to sophisticated international cuisines and exquisite relaxing and invigorating spa treatments.

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.

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Desert Camping

Although one would assume that camping in Abu Dhabi means roughing it out with limited supplies, it is done quite differently in this part of the world. Lots of furniture, food and tents are taken out into the desert to set up a unique camping experience for visitors to Abu Dhabi. Often the tents are decorated with Persian carpets, soft mattresses and colourful sheets. Yellow light illuminates from rustic lanterns while you savour delicious Emirati food. You will be surprised by the sheer volume and variety of food available; there is rice, nuts, spicy meat, salted fish and juicy dates.

The best times to camp are in the months between October and April because the rest of the year is too hot for outdoor excursions. Those wanting to explore the area will find plenty of maps about camping sites in Abu Dhabi. The surrounding area is like what you would see in a movie. Miles and miles of sand and dunes stretching far into the horizon; watching the sun rise or sunset is the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors in the Middle East. Most of the desert camping sites are located just outside the Abu Dhabi city. The safari tours usually arrange for a 4×4 pickup from the hotel to the location.

If you want to go for a thrilling ride the 4×4 journey is an exciting adventure. The drivers swerve through the sand and drive across the vast land giving you a feel for what it is like to be out in the country. One can even opt for quad biking rides in the mornings or evenings if you want to take up the challenge. Some of the camping safaris include fully equipped, luxurious rooms too to ensure a memorable stay in the desert.

Visitors who are looking for accommodation in the city should stay in Abu Dhabi hotels. When it comes to experiencing the very best the region has to offer, luxury hotels Abu Dhabi are by far the best places to stay in when you visit the emirate. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is recommended for those looking for great views of the desert landscape and wanting to experience the finest in accommodation and service.

 

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.

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On the Wild Side

Sir Bani Yas Island Abu Dhabi, the largest natural island in the Emirates is also the site of one of the region’s largest wildlife reserves, the 4,200 ha Arabian Wildlife Park. Established in the 1970s careful conservation, re-vegetation and ecological management has made it the home of more than 10,000 free roaming animals and millions of trees and plants. The world’s largest herd of Arabian Oryx, varieties of antelope and gazelles, giraffes, different types of deer and sheep roam free as do predators such as hyenas and cheetahs. These are among its 30 species of mammals and more than a hundred indigenous species of birds that are part of the amazing collection of wildlife here. The aim of the park is to have only indigenous animals. All the animals within the park are indigenous to the Arabian Peninsula. Non indigenous species are being removed along with human interferences such as roads and old irrigation pipes. Sir Bani Yas Island is located 250 km southwest of Abu Dhabi and 9 km from Jebel Dhanna the crossing point. The island offers a range of nature based activities that include many interesting ways to see the wildlife such as the world’s first zero emission buses, purpose built viewing platforms, cruising and sailing itineraries on the Arabian Gulf, 4×4 nature and wildlife drives accompanied by naturalists and guided nature and wildlife walks.

Nature & wildlife walks are accommodated on the eastern side of the island. Small groups of no more than seven persons walk through the bush for 1.5 hours with a special guide and learn about the flora and fauna as well as to observe Giraffe, Beisa Oryx, Axis, Urial and Red Deer feed, gather in family groups, play or lie in the shade of toothbrush trees that form a major part of the park’s vegetation. However the walk is subject to weather conditions. A guided Wadi Walk in a dried up riverbed is another way to catch the wildlife. This takes walkers through the naturally formed salt domed hilltops in the middle of the island. The banks of the dried up river and geological formations contain ancient fossils and minerals. The Arabian Wildlife Park endeavours to provide an authentic environment for the free roaming wildlife resulting in an exceptional experience for visitors.
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villas located within the Arabian Wildlife Park offers the dream getaway for wildlife enthusiasts. Accommodation comprises of some of the coziest yet luxurious Abu Dhabi villas in one and two bedroom configurations and equipped with pools overlooking the desert wilderness. Stay in one of exceptional resorts Abu Dhabi to experience a unique wildlife sanctuary offering both land and ocean based experiences while enjoying the comforts of Anantara hospitality.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Wreck diving off Sir Bani Yas Island

Plunge into the Arabian Gulf and discover an underwater world of wreaks steeped in history and magnificence. Start your explorations from one of the stylish Abu Dhabi villas on offer, such as the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villas which is widely considered one of the finest resorts Abu Dhabi has to offer all its visitors. Local diving institutions such as the Desert Island Watersport Center will be more than happy to set you up with the appropriate gear for you to start your underwater adventures safely. A prime dive locality is situated around 10km away from Sir bani Yas Island. It is also partially framed by a reef, which attracts an intriguing selection of aquatic denizens. Some of the main aspects of the site to explore are the wrecks of what look like old pilot boats as well as an immense, upended barge. Encounter three huge stone blocks that are almost like guard towers presiding over the watery domain. You will witness the victory of nature over the manmade features, as the once overland objects have now been taken over by barracuda, angelfish, batfish, sweetlips, sea turtles, snappers, and other underwater citizens staking their claim over this strange non-oceanic object. The wrecks are at a depth of eleven metres, which means there is ample amounts of light to fuel any underwater photography. What used to be a submerged junkyard has now been transformed into a vibrant ecosystem exemplifying nature’s policy of adaptation to anything and merits exploration by diving enthusiasts.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday. Google+

Experiencing Thrilling Kite Surfing in Abu Dhabi

If you are looking to experience the thrill of some adventure sports when in Abu Dhabi then kite surfing is an excellent way to get your adrenaline fix! Before embarking on kite surfing excursions look to find a hotel in Abu Dhabi that provides an ideal base for your travels. Providing some of the finest accommodation Abu Dhabi has to offer, Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi is one such option and lets you enjoy other water sports as well such as sailing and kayaking.

When it comes to kite surfing in Abu Dhabi, one has several locations that provide the perfect setting for this exciting outdoor activity. Al Dabayyah and Yas Island are two areas known to attract kite surfers looking to catch strong breezes that will propel them along the water. If you are new to this sport, but want to learn more about kite surfing, one will find several centres and schools that provide the needed training that will have you riding the waves in no time.

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.

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