dubai | The Adventure Travel Site

Kicking up a Dust

Anyone who has been near a desert has always wanted to explore it. One way of doing this, albeit very briefly, is to take a SUV safari in the desert. This offers a bit of exploration combined with an incredible off road experience that everyone from seven to seventy seem to enjoy. Anantara Hotels Resorts & Spas, an operator of luxury hotel resorts in Asia and the Middle East, has several properties at desert locations.

Many travel companies at desert locations offer variations of the SUV desert safari. This involves driving a 4×4 vehicle over sand dunes at maniacal speeds so that the occupants have the most thrilling experience of their lives. This is also known as dune bashing. The episodes generally start with a convoy of 4x4s leaving the city behind early in the evening and hitting the dunes after reducing the pressure in the SUVs tires to increase its footprint, gaining more traction and to avoid sinking into the sand. The convoy is also a necessary precaution to avoid losing direction and getting lost. Ensuring the passengers are securely buckled in, the driver commences to kick up a dust navigating the steep troughs and crests of the dunes shaking up its passengers and giving the uninitiated quite a fright. The SUV driver who has been doing this many times is well up in his game. The SUV desert safari is also most people’s first introduction to the desert and the discovery that the desert landscape is very varied indeed.

The dune bashing lasts for about 20 minutes. The passengers are allowed a respite to watch the sunset over the dunes which is really a very pretty sight. The safari includes a visit to a camel farm, camel rides, henna tattoos and a traditional Arabic meal sitting on carpets and cushions on the sand around a campfire entertained by a belly dancer and relaxing with a shisha afterwards. The safari is also an opportunity to try sand boarding and if vehicles are available at site, dune bashing on ATVs as well.

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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Al Hamar

The desert Emirate of Dubai has over the years made a name for itself as a premier tourist destination, offering an array of noteworthy attractions. In Dubai you will have the chance to enjoy sensational shopping opportunities, a host of sightseeing attractions and a laidback cosmopolitan ambience. Visitors considering a tour of the Emirate interested in staying at a Palm Jumeirah hotel will be pleased by Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa. Such an accommodation will provide well-furnished rooms and courteous service and makes an ideal base from which to set out on one’s adventures.

A not to be missed activity when exploring the region is dune bashing and wadi bashing. Dune bashing involves powerful four wheel drive vehicles, dune buggies or quad bikes which are used to drive up and down sand dunes in the desert. Skilled drivers can do this competently, racing through the sand at great speed. It is certainly an experience to be treasured, which can only be enjoyed at a select few locations in the world.

Travellers to Dubai should take the opportunity to visit the immense sand dune known as Al Hamar, or Big Red. This well-known attraction is conveniently reached from Dubai city and may be visited in the morning or the afternoon. This colossal dune, no less than 300 feet in height, has slopes that are as steep as those of a ski run. The distinctive reddish colour of its sand is a result of a high content of iron oxide.

Al Hamar is a popular visitor attraction, luring a steady stream of leisure seekers, both local residents and tourists from abroad. However this does not detract from the pleasure of visiting this attractive leisure destination. If you lack a suitable four wheel drive vehicle you may hire an off road vehicle from a specialist company. You will also have the options of hiring a quad bike or a camel ride at the attraction itself, although you cannot actually ascend the dune in this manner.

All around the vicinity of Al Hamar you will see a host of little shops and kiosks which offer snacks and souvenirs. The visitors at the dune itself will all be in a joyous mood and you too will be enthralled by this marvel of nature.

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+

Ballooning in Dubai

On the 21^st of November 1783, Jean Francois Pilatre de Rozier made history by launching the first manned flight utilising a hot air balloon. At the time, hot air balloons became largely popular as a unique mode of travel, a mode that was unavailable until that time. With a number of changes and adjustments through the centuries, hot air balloons have developed a different popularity in the 21^stcentury: tourism. Hot air ballooning tours are now being offered in almost every country as an essential component of the tourism industry.

Most tours allow its patrons to witness the sunrise by taking off in the dead of the night. As a result, tourists often have the wonderful experience of watching a glorious sunrise and the slow but marvellous changes of the colours of the sky. For those visiting Dubai, this experience is just as unforgettable. One such hot air ballooning tour is offered by Ballooning Adventures Dubai and will commence north of Al Ain in the Desert Oasis.

Those considering exploring this option of sightseeing should know that children below five years of age are restricted from going on the tour. However, the tour is not a short one: it lasts for approximately four to five hours. As a result, ensure that you make time for the tour when making an itinerary. The tour is open to around twenty two people a ride. Therefore, it is likely that your entire family will be able to take it at one time. You should also be prepared to pay eight hundred and fifty dirham for children and nine hundred and ninety five dirham for adults.

This particular company also offers to provide free transport from one’s accommodation in Dubai to the pickup site making the tour not only enjoyable and entertaining but convenient as well. When selecting a Palm Jumeirah hotel to reside in, keep in mind Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa which is an excellent option. Located only a forty five minute drive from the Airport, guests will have the opportunity to experience fine dining and select from a variety of cuisines.

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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Off

Venture off the beaten track and plunge into the rolling, golden sands of the Arabian Desert when you go off-roading in Dubai. Your luxury Dubai hotel will help you make all the necessary travel arrangements, and a stylish Deira hotel Dubai such as the Copthorne Hotel Dubai is the perfect base from which to launch all your explorations. Dune Buggy Dubai is one excellent company with which to plan and plunge into all your off-roading adventures – UAE style. Get an early start with a fun morning safari within the dunes that will see you leaping headfirst into the undulating dunes all from which the comfort of a stylish dune buggy perfect for you. Or plan your excursion as twilight falls with an evening desert safari, and have fun roller-coasting through the golden waves of sand as the wind whips through your hair. You can even go sand boarding, quad biking, get your hands and face painted with Henna, and witness a mesmerizing belly-dance as part of the whole experience in the desert! Or if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, a quad bike safari is perfect, where it’s just you and your bike taking on the twists and turns of the desert on your lonesome. Come back to camp by dark and enjoy a delicious BBQ under the stars. With adventures like these in the UAE, you will never want to leave!

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.

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Hot Air Balloon Rides

Dubai is considered one of the glitziest cities in the world, with elite shopping and entertainment choices to satiate the fussiest of experiential tastes. Check into one of the downtown Dubai luxury hotels for a taste of true glamour and glitz. The Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai is widely considered one of the finest 5 star hotels Dubai has to offer the roving traveller. Fly high above Dubai’s city line and gaze down at the city from a different perspective designed to thrill and amaze. Take to the skies well before the sunrise and witness the majesty of a desert sunrise peeking through the horizon that you are about to meet. Witness the magical landscape unfolding beneath your feet and absorb the rich hues of copper, emerald, gold, and sienna, a sensuous carpet undulating in the early morning light. Catch sight of the amazing wildlife trotting below through the elegant shapes of the gazelles and camels silhouetted against the shifting sand dunes. Rise up to meet the beautiful desert sun ascending along its familiar arc and descend to where cool drinks and refreshments will be waiting for you after your exhilarating flight. For a unique perspective of Dubai, take to the desert skies on a hot air balloon ride!

iFly Dubai

Feel the wind blowing against your face as you await the adrenaline rush of your life at Dubai’s very own iFly Dubai, better known for its in-house sky diving experiences. Therefore for those of you who want to come over to this attraction must first consider the many options of apartment accommodation Dubai has to offer. Ascott Park Place Dubai with its Dubai serviced apartments will be one of the facilities that must be given some thought when searching for a place to stay.

Located in Mirdif City Centre, iFly Dubai offers you the convenience of strapping up and letting yourself go as the two 800 horsepower fans keep you suspended in the air. The experience is truly memorable as you would feel the same sensation and joy of jumping out of plane. Once inside you will be handed your very own jumpsuit, goggles and helmet and given expert advice by the on-site instructors on how to ride the almost gale-force winds which are part of this one of a kind experience. Regarded as the most realistic of sky diving trips that one could ever go on, iFly Dubai is all set to offer you the ride of all rides as your holiday in Dubai begins to unfold.

Desert Driving in Dubai

While the desert that surrounds Dubai may not seem to offer much at first glance, this awe-inspiring sea of sand does in fact hold many wonder to behold, ideally experienced while on a desert driving tour. If you are on the lookout for a Dubai airport hotel from which to head off on your adventures then consider Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai which provides an ideal base for your travels. This 5 star hotel Dubai has to offer is also a relatively short driving distance away from the Hatta Dunes which are worth exploring too.

Desert driving in Dubai provides the perfect opportunity to see the many fascinating sights of this arid landscape which offers plenty of outdoor exploration. Driving in 4 wheel drive vehicles is an excellent way in which to cruise along the endless stretches of sand that spread out for miles upon miles. On your drive one has a chance to see wildlife too such as camels that are part and parcel of the scenery here. Those travelling during the evening can enjoy breathtaking sunsets, while certain tours also include activities such as sand-boarding and visiting a campsite where one can enjoy henna painting, barbecue dinners and even belly dancing performances.

Experience Desert Safari

Desert Safari Dubai features some of the most exciting safaris you could embark on, that will transport you to the mythical and romantic landscape of the Arabian Desert, where the magic of the ages unfolds before your very eyes. The company will pick you up from your Dubai serviced apartments to spirit you away, and if you want to ensure quality Dubai apartment accommodation beforehand, Ascott Park Place Dubai is an excellent option. Desert Safari Dubai has a selection of four exciting desert safari option, three of which offer an exciting round of “dune bashing” that sees you travelling along the golden sand dunes of the desert in a rough and tumble excursion on a well-outfitted 4×4 off-roader.

Savour the splendid sunset and take a few memorable photographs to capture this amazing sight. Afterward, if you should so choose, you’ll be taken to an authentic desert camp where you can enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner under the stars. Be mesmerized by the enchanting performance of a belly-dancer afterward, whilst you sample some traditional Arabian coffee and fresh dates. You can also try out sand skiing, quad biking, a camel ride, and even stay overnight at the desert camp. With so much excitement to look forward to, book your desert safari in Dubai today!

Freefalling at over 200km/h

The city of Dubai, located within the Arabian Emirate of the same name, is one of the most developed and popular Middle Eastern cities. A city with a rich history and vibrant culture, Dubai is known for its thriving economy which is powered by its booming oil, tourism, and financial industries. Its many historic and modern attractions, bustling shopping and retail districts, and many recreational and leisure attractions make it a top tourist destination as well.

There are many things that one can do in Dubai to blow off some steam or to get a mind blowing adrenaline rush. But nothing beats the likes of freefalling at speeds of over 200km/h over the city of Dubai, which is exactly what Skydive Dubai offers you! Skydiving, ever since it became an extreme sport which anyone can do, has been known as one of the most exhilarating and adrenaline pumping activities. So if you are in the mood for a heart stopping adrenaline rush, leap off a plane into the skies of Dubai with Skydive Dubai.

Skydive Dubai, a premier skydiving centre, is a great place to go skydiving as it not only offers you a high quality experience but it also offers some great views on your decent from thousands of feet in the air. Skydive Dubai is located in the awe-inspiring and man-made Palm Jumeria Island. The island itself is known for its amazing shape and design, which seem even more amazing when viewed from the top, so you can be assured that you will be dazzled while being thrilled while skydiving!

Skydive Dubai is staffed by professional skydivers who work to ensure that your descent back to the ground will be both exciting as well as safe. Skydiving at Skydive Dubai is done in tandems, which means that you have a professional instructor with you at all times so that your safety is always ensured. Having successfully orchestrated over 7000 jumps, Skydive Dubai is most certainly one of the best places you can skydive.

If you are looking for tranquil accommodation in Dubai during your time here, consider making a reservation at the Anantara Dubai the Palm Resort & Spa. This luxury resort belongs to the prestigious Anantara group and offers accommodation in range of stylish rooms and plush villas. This Palm Jumeirah Hotel also offers a wide range of luxury amenities and guest services such as fine dining, spa treatment, and recreational services, making it an ideal hotel for a memorable stay.

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Gravity Zone

Dubai is a shopping hub for most of the world and especially known for the exceptional quality of its gold jewellery. Therefore it is frequently visited by businessmen and so on. Yet, Dubai is a great place for the whole family young and old. There are so many activities that visitors of all ages can enjoy. A great place to stay, shop and do sightseeing, Dubai is a must-stop for any globetrotter.

When you think of gravity and defying gravity, you will no doubt think of the moon. Yet, here in Dubai, there is something else that you will love and will get your adrenaline pumping. This comes in the form of a 50 m Bungee Jump! The people at Gravity Zone in partnership with the UK Bungee Club have come together to give you this thrilling experience that will give you a scare and adventure to remember a lifetime. The Gravity Zone is open to all sorts of people, young and old and has different levels that one could try. This is the perfect place if you are looking for a new thrill in this UAE and if you love adventure and thrills that are safe! There is a very interesting story behind the development of bungee jumping but the one that lives on today is the tradition that it began on April Fools’day in 1979 when a group of students from the Oxford University Dangerous Sport Club jumped from a height of 245ft off the Clifton Suspension Bridge. They did this after being highly taken up by a movie of the same time period.

Today bungee jumping is more than just a prank. People from all over the world are interested in trying it and now you can, right at the Gravity Zone in UAE. So the next time you are looking for a thrilling adventure, book your flights to the sunny state of UAE. When looking for a place to stay choose from the range of Dubai luxury hotels A great place to stay at is the Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai one of the finest 5 star hotels Dubai has to offer. So the next time you feel like experiencing an adrenaline rush, why not try ‘bungee jumping!’