We booked our 6night trip through Emirates, we have never been to the middle East before so were a bit apprehensive. I have been dreaming of going to this hotel ever since I first came across it in a travel brochure. We don't usually stay in such luxury!
Our journey out was hassle free and we found Emirates airlines to be a cut above the rest. We decided on the 10am flight as neither of us like night flying. On arrival even before passport control we were met and given a map and told where to go. We had a private transfer to our hotel.
From the moment we arrived we were treated like royalty. We were given delicious fresh green apple juice and cold flannels, very refreshing. Our luggage was whisked away and we were taken on a buggy through the grounds to our villa where we were checked in by Carolina. We discovered that we had been upgraded to an gulf summer house ocean view in villa 2. It was amazing. Carolina was so helpful and I mentioned to her that I like to drink quite a lot of water each day. She was back in a flash with 6 bottles and said she would make sure we were left plenty each day.
It was getting late by then so we headed out to eat, everywhere was lit up and so pretty. It felt like up market Disney in a way, we realised then that it was going to be an amazing place and live up to our dreams.
The nearest breakfast restuarants were Khaymat al Baha and Al Muna, we tried both but much preffered Al Muna as we loved the outside terrace and the view of the Abras and waterway, it was also much quieter and the food was fabulous not to mention the wonderful staff. We also tried Arboretum once but found it a bit busy.
In the evenings we ate at Pai Thai once, we went ther by abra which was magical and the food was lovely but we weren't sure it warranted the cover charge. We had an equally good meal in Al Hambra. Both times we sat outside to eat. We couldn't help returning to our beloved Al Muna the rest of the time, the food is beautifully presented and the views at night.....well the Burg will put on a special light show just for you!!!
Everywhere is immaculate with beautiful gardens and waterways, everywhere you look there is another fantastic view. The beach is stunning and the Staff and life guards all very helpful. We did see some jellyfish and I was a little worried but the life guard assured me that they were harmless by picking one up and putting it back in the sea. Within a few days I was also rescuing the odd stranded jellyfish.
On some evenings we went to the amphitheatre and watched a very good solo guitar player/singer. It was a very nice atmosphere, you could buy drinks and some people were smoking sheesha pipes.
There is also a souk on site with lots of shops, even a pharmacy!
We used the abras whenever we could as it was lovely to just take in the views and get the breeze on your face in the day time.
We only left the resort once. We got a taxi (about £6+tip) to the Dubai Mall, we explored and then went outside to see the Burj al Khalifa and area. Then we went back indoors to the book store on level three next to the VIrgin Megastore where they are happy for you to just have a drink and sit on there fantastic terrace and watch the fountain show. We watched four, one every half hour until the sun set.
We have had the most amazing time, you must try this place. We would love to come back and maybe go up the Burj for tea next time. Even when we were leaving they still looked after us right up to the last minute, bringing us drinks as we sat with our luggage in reception.
We flew home on an A380 and was one of the best flights we have had. Emirates entertainment system is brilliant and passed the time easily.
Thank you everyone at the MAdinat resort for making our stay so specila. We will be back!!!!
