8 minute read
TRAVEL
Short haul breaks from the UAE
Planning a quick getaway? These 10 destinations are within reach…
One of the best things about living in the UAE is our proximity to bucket list destinations. We’re within a four-hour flight of a third of the world’s population. If you’re thinking about planning a getaway, take a look at some of these lesser-known – but still amazing – places.
KEY LEGEND:
PCR VACCINE
1 Manama, Bahrain
Flight time: 1 hour 20 mins
Why visit? Formerly a port town, this bustling city is overflowing with Arabian heritage. If you’re looking for somewhere to explore true historic landmarks, Manama has plenty to choose from. From the Manama Souq, to the Bahrain National Museum, and Al Fateh Grand Mosque. When you’re done soaking up the culture, taste traditional Bahraini cuisine at Haji’s Cafe 1950.
TRAVEL CHECKLIST: on arrival
2
Salalah, Oman
Flight time: 2 hours
Why visit? Muscat and Musandam are well-trodden paths for Dubai-based mini-breakers but travel further down the coast and you’ll discover an emerald-green paradise (with cooler temperatures, too that are perfect for escaping the UAE heat). Although Salalah is surrounded by desert, white sand beaches and plantations of bananas and papaya give this holiday spot a tropical vibe.
TRAVEL CHECKLIST: + 72 hours
4 3
Baku, Azerbaijan
Flight time: 3 hours
Why visit? Azerbaijan’s eccentric capital was once described by Lonely Planet as the “architectural love child” of Paris and Dubai. As well as its outlandish modern creations, you’ll find ancient wonders in Baku’s Old City, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also plenty of quirky museums to get lost in, like the Museum of Miniature Books, and the Carpet Museum.
TRAVEL CHECKLIST: + 72 hours
AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Flight time: 3 hours
Why visit? Majestic AlUla is one of Saudi Arabia’s most treasured spots. Historically located on the incense route, and regarded as one of the oldest cities in the Arabian Peninsula, among the breathtaking highlights is Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. AlUla has been transformed in recent years with new festivals, events, restaurants and hotels. Meaning even in the middle of a flame-hued desert you can check-in to a five-star hotel, dine on dishes by a celebrity chef, and book excursions that range from helicopter rides and hot air balloons to trips to the Old Town.
5
Yerevan, Armenia
Flight time: 3 hours
Why visit? Armenia’s capital is often referred to as the ‘pink city’ thanks to the rose hue of the stone used in many of its buildings. It’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, so history buffs will love it here. You can also visit Swan Lake, where rapper Kanye West famously took a dip during an impromptu concert back in 2015.
TRAVEL CHECKLIST: + 72 hours 6
Amman, Jordan
Flight time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Why visit? Jordan might be best known for its ancient city of Petra, but you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained in the thriving capital. Rainbow Street is a popular hangout, with lots of great cafes, restaurants and shops. Or for more historical vibes, you can check out the striking Roman Theatre, which dates back to the second century.
7
Tbilisi, Georgia
TRAVEL CHECKLIST: 72 hours + on arrival
Flight time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Why visit? Charming is a word that often pops up when describing Georgia’s capital – think cobbled streets, pastel-coloured houses and tree-lined avenues. This place is getting a serious reputation as a foodie destination, and the best way to discover it is by booking yourself on one of the many food tours on offer – don’t leave without trying khachapuri, the cheesy national delicacy.
TRAVEL CHECKLIST: or 72 hours
8
Dushanbe, Tajikistan
Flight time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Why visit? Tajikistan is one of the smallest countries in Central Asia, but there’s still plenty to see and do. The capital boasts its fair share of parks, museums, and landmarks, including the world’s second-tallest flagpole. You can spend a couple of hours working on your haggling skills at Korvon Bazaar, or catch a game of the rather grim national sport, buzkashi – also known as ‘dead goat polo’.
TRAVEL CHECKLIST: 72 hours
9 Larnaca, Cyprus
Flight time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Why visit? The island is split into Turkish and Greek halves, which means you can dip into two separate cultures in the one trip. If you’re into diving, in Larnaca be sure to check out the Zenobia shipwreck – it’s said to be one of the best dive sites in the world.
10 Esfahan, Iran
Flight time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Why visit? If your Instagram feed has been looking a little drab recently, Esfahan’s pretty blue-tiled buildings and Persian gardens are sure to liven things up. The city is a treasure trove of mosques, including the Imam Mosque, which is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in Iran.
TRAVEL CHECKLIST: 72 hours
WIN!
We all love to get away from it all, so we’re giving you the chance to win a two-night stay at the stunning Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal. Set amidst beautifully landscaped garden, and Venetian-inspired buildings, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal offers a luxury beach resort experience minutes away from the city centre. You and a guest will also be treated to the resort’s popular Saturday Chef’s Brunch, inclusive of house drinks. Dive into freshly shucked oysters, pan-fried foie gras, balloon burrata, premium meats and cuisines from all around the world.
WIN!
Treat the family to a relaxing escape at Radisson Blu Abu Dhabi Yas Island, with a two-night stay for two adults and two children. Put your feet up and let the little ones loose as they explore the plethora of kid-friendly activities on offer. Located just two minutes from attractions such as Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros. World theme parks, this epic hotel is the perfect place to unwind after a fun-filled day. Your stay includes breakfast, as well as a choice of lunch or dinner in Assymetri, the hotel’s expansive international restaurant.
q For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win
LASTMINUTE TRIP
Discover worldrenowned Thai hospitality at this waterfront property
Hailing from Thailand, Centara Hotels & Resorts is built upon traditional family values.
The location
Tucked away on a prime stretch of the Deira Islands waterfront, this staycation spot will see you swapping bustling Dubai life for still blue waters paired with adventure, thanks to the family-friendly waterpark.
The look and feel
Keeping little ones in mind, pops of colour alongside beach and ocean elements are dotted throughout the hotel. Expect under-the-sea murals and photos of Thai beaches paired with giant elephant sculptures, bamboo umbrellas, and tuktuks for that cultural touch of Thailand.
The rooms
A variety of room styles are available with views of the beach and waterpark or the city. If you’re going with little ones, opt for the room which comes with bunk beds – they are sure to be a hit. For design, a minimalistic approach is taken with predominantly blue hues paired with touches of Arabia and a cool art piece that hangs over the bed.
Facilities and activities
The facilities at this resort are plentiful, but the highlight is the waterpark which includes slides, cliff jumping points, play areas, a lazy river and more. For water sport activities head to the beach and take a dip in the Arabian Gulf. For non-water related activities, back in the hotel there’s plenty for the kids to enjoy in the Mirage Family Lounge.
Other must-try facilities include Spa Cenvaree, which offers an extensive selection of treatments and hot and cold plunge pools. Once the sun sets, round up the family and watch a movie on the beach.
The food and drinks
The hotel is home to a number of restaurants but our favourite was Sands, aptly named as it’s located right on the beach. The restaurant serves up fresh seafood and grills and thanks to the friendly and attentive staff, the dining experience was truly memorable. For dinner, we opted for Lebanese eatery Sheesh where we enjoyed dishes such as hummus, cheesy rakakat, shish tawook and the Lebanese mixed grill. If you fancy Thai food, there’s Suan Bua (where breakfast is also served), or for grills with Argentinian flavours, go to Uno Mas.
The room rates
Rates including breakfast are Dhs587++ per night.
a Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai, Deira Islands, Dubai. Tel: (0)4 522 9999. centarahotelsresorts.com
