Dubai is a land of dreams, luxury and unforgettable experiences. Visitors love the largest city in the United Arab Emirates for its countless luxury hotels, miles of beaches, gigantic shopping centres, wide streets and multitude of restaurants. It is therefore not surprising that Dubai has the highest density of five-star hotels in the world. Two of them, Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal, are probably among the best known. We have visited both hotels several times and have been able to test them extensively.

In this hotel review, I would like to compare both of them and show you all advantages, and possibly also the disadvantages, so you can then decide for yourself which one suits your needs and expectations better.

Both Atlantis hotels are located on the artificial island of Palm Jumeirah, which opened in 2008 and, as the name suggests, is shaped like a palm tree.

Which Atlantis Hotel in Dubai Is Better: The Palm or The Royal?

1. The Design

Atlantis The Palm

This legendary luxury hotel has been so well known for many years that it is now one of Dubai’s landmarks. Atlantis The Palm impresses with its magnificent architecture in the iconic ‘Atlantis’ design – inspired by underwater mythology. It is a replica of the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas, but with better facilities. It is also larger, with a spacious resort feel and themed elements throughout the grounds.

As soon as you enter the lobby, you feel like you are stepping into a fairy-tale world – similar to a theme park. The aquariums are a real highlight – I could spend hours standing in front of them.

Atlantis The Royal

Atlantis The Royal, which only opened in 2023, is significantly more modern, minimalist and architecturally sophisticated. It is not just a hotel, but a true embodiment of luxury and futuristic architecture. This is reflected in sleek lines, lots of glass, light-flooded rooms and photo spots that sometimes seem almost surreal. All in all, it is more of a modern luxury property than a classic resort.

Also at Atlantis The Royal, entering the lobby feels like stepping into another world. I was impressed by the elegant design, the countless finely tuned details and interior elements from Louis Vuitton, Dolce Gabbana & Co. You immediately sense the hotel’s high quality standards.

2. Rooms

First things first: no matter which hotel or room category you check into, you can always expect a warm welcome when you enter your room. They are always beautifully and lovingly decorated. I love these little details because they make your stay personal and unforgettable.

Atlantis The Palm

Atlantis The Palm offers a wide range of rooms and suites (more than 1,500 in total) – including special themed rooms such as the underwater suites, where you can watch the inhabitants of Ambassador Lagoon from your bed.

The rooms are classically furnished and welcome their guests in a ‘resort style’ rather than with high-tech amenities. Everything is impeccably clean and room service comes twice a day.

Advantage: affordable rooms are also available.

Atlantis The Royal

The total number of rooms is significantly lower than at Atlantis The Palm. Their size starts at a very generous 55 square metres. All rooms have very modern amenities and a balcony. True oases of well-being with views of the Persian Gulf, which is naturally reflected in the prices. These are significantly higher than at Atlantis The Palm.

Many categories even have private infinity pool options (e.g. the ‘Sky Pool Villas’). You will also find luxurious amenities and brands throughout.

Here at Atlantis The Royal, too, everything is super clean with first-class room and even butler service.

3. Entertainment

Atlantis The Palm

Most guests at Atlantis The Palm appreciate the direct access to the huge Aquaventure Waterpark and Lost Chambers Aquarium, which include numerous attractions for children and adults. Incidentally, Aquaventure Waterpark is currently the largest waterpark in the world. My tip: As it is very popular, it is worth purchasing the Aquaexpress Fast Pass, as it allows you to skip the queues and go on the slides as often as you like. It also entitles you to a free ride on the Dubai Balloon.

Atlantis The Palm has large sandy beaches and a considerable number of pools. There are many leisure activities and action-packed offerings awaiting you. Overall, the hotel is very family-oriented, with plenty of play options. It is also a safe place for children, as there are security personnel everywhere.

But adults also get their money’s worth at Atlantis The Palm. My favourite is the adults-only beach club WHITE DUBAI. A fantastic place to spend a sunny day in Dubai.

My special tip: diving in the Ambassador Lagoon. This aquarium is located directly in the hotel and is one of the largest fish habitats in the world – around 65,000 marine fish behind 70 cm thick acrylic glass walls in 22 million litres of water. It has no roof and is filled with natural sea water. The fish are fed several times a day so that the predators do not have to hunt and prey on their smaller counterparts. So: a safe dive that I can only recommend from my own unforgettable experience!

Atlantis The Royal

Atlantis The Royal does not have its own large water park, but the Aquaventure Water Park is located in the immediate vicinity and access is included for hotel guests. A free shuttle is also available.

At Atlantis The Royal, the focus is more on exclusive pool experiences. A true paradise for adults, the most popular spot is probably the Cloud 22 rooftop bar with its infinity pool. From up here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Palm Jumeirah and Dubai.

In addition, trendy events are regularly held at the hotel complex. Especially in the evening, an upscale social scene awaits you with DJs, bars and extravagant entertainment options.

My special tip: At Nobu By The Beach, you can relax and enjoy the day in a cabana with a fantastic view of the unique architectural design of Atlantis the Royal. Simply incredibly beautiful!

4. Restaurants

Atlantis The Palm

Atlantis The Palm is home to more than 30 restaurants and bars offering a mix of casual dining and fine cuisine.

The particularly family-friendly orientation is very evident in the selection of dishes and buffets, as well as in the presence of well-known restaurant brands.

My favourites are Nobu Atlantis Dubai and Seafire Steakhouse.

Atlantis The Royal

World-famous top chefs conjure up true culinary masterpieces in the approximately 15 high-class restaurants at Atlantis The Royal. The sophisticated concepts of the star chefs make it clear that the hotel’s focus is less on buffets and more on fine dining and culinary highlights. It is evident that the cuisine aims to meet global standards.

My favourites: the Asian rooftop restaurant Ling Ling and the Greek restaurant Milos with a perfect view at night.

My tip: if you have booked a Royal Club Room, you have access to the Royal Club Lounge with its fantastic view. Here, breakfast, afternoon tea and happy hour drinks & snacks are included.

5. Audience

Atlantis The Palm

As already mentioned, Atlantis The Palm is clearly family-oriented and therefore frequented by couples, families and larger groups. You will be greeted by a somewhat livelier resort atmosphere – in some places, such as the main pool in the afternoon, it can also seem a little crowded.

Atlantis The Royal

The numerous offerings for adults and the high prices are strongly reflected in the clientele at Atlantis The Royal. Nevertheless, it is not a purely adults-only resort – only some areas/pools are exclusively for adults.

You will encounter many couples, luxury travellers and celebrities here, as the hotel is less focused on classic family entertainment. Some guests are more interested in ‘seeing and being seen’.

Overall conclusion – Which hotel is the better choice for your holiday in Dubai?

Atlantis The Palm

Perfect for families, adventure holidays and water park lovers

Wide range of dining options

Larger resort with lots of variety

  less ultra-luxurious, a little noisy and crowded in some areas

Atlantis The Royal

High-end design, state-of-the-art facilities, exclusive pools and fine dining

Adult-oriented and stylish

Significantly more expensive, less fun holiday, can seem a bit stiff in some areas

If you want more adventure, action and family-friendliness, I recommend Atlantis The Palm.

If you’re looking for modern luxury, fine dining and a boutique feel at the highest level, Atlantis The Royal is the more elegant choice.

Both resorts are unique in their own way and promise an unforgettable holiday, which is why we always combined them during our last trips to Dubai – for the ideal mix of adventure and relaxation.

I hope my hotel comparison has given you a little insight into Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal and helped you choose your ideal hotel in Dubai.

Book your stay directly here at the best prices:

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Just two hours from Dubai lies a whole different world. Welcome to the Six Senses Zighy Bay in Oman!

I am probably one of the biggest fans of Six Senses. The hotel brand is unique and nothing compares to it. And the Six Senses Zighy Bay in Oman fits in seamlessly. In this hotel review, you’ll find out what makes the resort so unique and whether the Six Senses Zighy Bay is the right choice for you.

My Hotel Review of Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman

The Location

Where exactly is the Six Senses Zighy Bay located?

The Six Senses Zighy Bay is located south of Oman, on the Musandam Peninsula, an exclave of the country. It is surrounded by the United Arab Emirates and the Gulf of Oman. The region is characterized by rocky mountain deserts where hundreds – if not thousands of goats live and small settlements. The coast line offers some exceptional views thanks to the surrounding mountains.

What’s the best way to reach the Six Senses Zighy Bay?

The easiest way to get to the resort is by car from Dubai. The transfer across the border by private SUV is organized by the resort and was completely hassle-free. It is only important to have your passport with you – Six Senses will take care of all the other formalities.

The drive from Dubai takes just over two hours and is mostly on a well-maintained road. Only the last part of the route leads through a rocky desert, up into the mountains, and ends in a quiet bay surrounded by impressive mountains: Zighy Bay! The location of the Six Senses is unique and incredibly quiet. Only a few locals also live in the bay, otherwise we are only surrounded by a unique landscape.

And now comes a real highlight of the resort: brave visitors can cover the last stretch from the mountain top to the beach at Six Senses Zighy Bay through the air on a paraglider! I opted for the thrill-packed route, together with an experienced paragliding pilot. The views over the landscape and the incredible blue water are beautiful and the feeling of gliding peacefully through the air is indescribable. This was definitely the most memorable hotel check-in I have ever experienced!

The concept of the Six Senses Zighy Bay

A stay at Six Senses Zighy Bay feels like immersing yourself in another world. Both the secluded location and the design of the resort make it seem almost fairytale-like. As usual for all Six Senses resorts, the focus here is on sustainability, wellness and the connection to nature. Care is also taken to incorporate the local culture into the resort. This includes, for example, Arabic dishes, the traditional design of the buildings and close cooperation with the locals.

Sustainability at Six Senses Zighy Bay

There is a recycling station on the resort grounds that recycles, composts or transforms almost all waste into something new. The drinking water for the resort is treated in the resort’s own water treatment plant. There is also a garden where all kinds of herbs, vegetables and fruit are grown. In addition, there are date palms all over the resort, which produce a huge amount of fruit that is harvested and processed at the resort.

The villas at Six Senses Zighy Bay

At Six Senses Zighy Bay there are only villas and all of them have a private pool. We ourselves stayed in a Pool Villa Suite Beachfront. Like all villas, it combines a rustic ambience with comfy luxury. Our private outdoor area offers plenty of space with a large pool and direct views and access to the beach and sea. Another special feature is the traditional majlis – a popular place in the Arab world to sit together, chat and drink tea.

In the villa, you first enter the living room with its own bathroom. This can be converted into a bedroom if more than two people are staying in the villa.

Behind it is the master bedroom with an open bathroom with a bathtub. My favorite thing to do in the morning was to use the outdoor shower, which can be reached from the bedroom. Of course, it is completely secluded for absolute privacy.

Beach & Pool

As the Six Senses Zighy Bay is located in a secluded bay, the resort’s beach is absolutely quiet. There is often not a soul to be seen and you feel like you are on a desert island. The water in the Gulf of Oman is pleasantly warm, the waves are very gentle and the soft sandy beach slopes gently into the water. Ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Although all villas have at least one small swimming pool, the resort also has two additional large swimming pools. The main pool is surrounded by pretty Arabian cabanas, which provide pleasant shade in the midday heat.

There is an additional pool near the beach, which is filled with salt water that is supposed to be good for the skin. Although the salt pool is very nice for photos, we hardly used it as we preferred to swim in the sea. However, it is a good alternative for inexperienced swimmers.

Six Senses Spa

Six Senses Spas are known worldwide and are subject to strict standards. Not only traditional massages are offered here, but also a wide range of holistic wellness treatments that harmonize body, mind and soul.  In the wellness area, there are separate wellness facilities for men and women, which can also be used without a booked treatment: a steam bath, a sauna and even an ice cave. Of course, a hotel in the Arabian region should not miss out on a traditional hammam. The Six Senses Zighy Bay even has two of these special baths, which can be booked with a relaxing wellness treatment. I also think it’s great that you can book multi-day wellness programs with different focuses, which include massages, treatments, consultations, meditations, yoga and much more. I will definitely try this out on my next visit!

Restaurants at the Six Senses Zighy Bay

Spice Market

The food at Six Senses Zighy Bay was excellent without exception. This began in the morning at breakfast in the resort’s main restaurant, the Spice Market, where an extensive breakfast buffet is offered that leaves nothing to be desired. With live cooking stations and an additional menu from which you can order à la carte. The majority of the selection consists of traditional dishes made from local produce as well as Feel Good Wellness Food for a healthy start to the day. 

The Spice Market is also open for dinner and offers an à la carte menu. Once a week, there is a traditional Omani evening where a very special menu is served: A spicy lamb dish that is covered in hot sand for several hours and thus slow-cooked in a very special way. The result is incredibly tender and juicy and is served with saffron rice as well as various dips, side dishes and bread.

Summer House 

The second restaurant at Six Senses Zighy Bay is the Summer House, which is open for lunch and dinner. The menu features Arabic and international dishes, using local produce as much as possible, often from the hotel’s own garden. On warm summer evenings, you can sit on the cozy terrace overlooking the resort and then enjoy a cocktail in the next door Zighy Bar.

Shua Shack

Outside the hot summer months, another restaurant, the Shua Shack, is open directly on the beach. Here you can enjoy Omani delicacies with your feet in the sand or simply a cool drink at sunset. Unfortunately, the restaurant was closed during our stay in June due to the heat, so we were unable to try it out for ourselves. However, we hope that we will be able to do so again.

Special Dinner 

Whether a private dinner in the wine cellar or a picnic in the mountains, there are of course also numerous offers for dinners on special occasions, one of which we were able to try out for ourselves on a day trip… more on that in a moment

Experiences at Six Senses Zighy Bay

A stay at Six Senses Zighy Bay would not be complete without exploring the unique surroundings and fascinating landscape of the Musandam Peninsula. These activities are not to be missed during your stay at Six Senses Zighy Bay:

Jeep Tour with Sunset Picnic

Our jeep tour from the resort through the spectacular landscape was absolutely fantastic! After the midday heat in the afternoon, we started our excursion. The road leads through a breathtaking rocky gorge, where we were able to admire numerous goats and incredible views. During various stops, our guide told us interesting facts about the culture and history of the region. As an absolute highlight, we went to one of the highest points in the mountains, from where we had an incredible view of the sunset. We enjoyed a delicious picnic and non-alcoholic champagne (alcohol is not allowed in Oman outside the resort) while the setting sun colored the landscape in the most beautiful shades of orange and red – a truly magical moment!

Paragliding

As mentioned at the beginning of the article, you can ‘float’ to check-in with a paraglider when you arrive at the resort. However, if you prefer to experience this breathtaking activity on another day, this is also possible! However, you should definitely not miss out on paragliding – it’s an incredible experience!

Dhahab Boat Tour

I will never forget our private day trip in a traditional boat, called a dhahab, along the coast of the Musandam peninsula. I felt like an explorer discovering unknown regions. Gliding slowly on the blue water, surrounded by the beautiful mountain panorama and hearing nothing but the waves in the sea is an incredible feeling. We stopped at a small bay to swim, snorkel and kayak – and had the bay all to ourselves! And the best thing about it: the tour is even offered overnight! The wooden boat offers plenty of space, with luxurious sleeping cabins (even with a bathtub!), a living room and, of course, a kitchen where a chef prepares the private dinner. I can only imagine how incredible the starry sky on the sea must look at night!

When is the best time of year to visit Six Senses Zighy Bay?

In terms of climate, the weather in Musandam is similar to Dubai. Winters are mild, spring and fall are pleasantly warm, while it can get very hot in summer. I therefore recommend choosing a travel period between mid-October and mid-May. We ourselves stayed at Six Senses Zighy Bay in June and the heat often made it very difficult for us, even sunbathing on the beach was almost impossible. Of course, hotel prices are significantly cheaper in the low season, but you will enjoy your stay more outside the summer.

Résumé of my Six Senses Zighy Bay Review

Despite the hot summer weather in June, our stay at Six Senses Zighy Bay was unforgettable thanks to the unique design, incredible service, great food and memorable activities. We definitely want to come back in the spring or fall to see more of Oman and enjoy the Six Senses Zighy Bay in milder temperatures.

Although the Six Senses resorts are always special and unique, the Six Senses Zighy Bay goes one better. I felt like I was in an Arabian fairytale and was able to completely forget about everyday life for a few days. The resort is therefore perfect for anyone who wants to really switch off. A stay here is certainly also a great contrast after a trip to Dubai. Here you can enjoy complete tranquillity, wellness, nature and delicious food after the hustle and bustle of the city.

It certainly wasn’t the last time we stayed at Six Senses Zighy Bay and I fell even more in love with this special hotel brand, which manages to combine luxury and sustainability like no other.

We had a sponsored stay at Six Senses Zighy Bay, which does not affect my opinion or review of the resort.

Welcome to the next level of luxury in Dubai! Atlantis The Royal is the brand new ultra-luxury sister property to Atlantis The Palm, Dubai’s most iconic hotel. This new resort is a fusion of modernity, outstanding architecture and magnificence. But read more about it in my hotel review of Atlantis The Royal.

My review of the Atlantis The Royal in Dubai

Location & check in

Atlantis The Royal is located at the far end of Palm Jumeirah, the artificial island with palm shape. Right next door to Atlantis The Palm and Aquaventure Waterpark, to which all Atlantis guests (of both Resorts) have free access! This means the resort offers breathtaking views of the entire Palm Jumeirah, the Marina skyline and the unique shape of Atlantis The Palm. Especially if you stay in a room on a higher floor or visit the pool on the 22nd floor. There is just one downside of this location on the Palm, as it means that you’ll always need at least a 20-minute taxi ride to get to other parts of the city. Luckily, taxis in Dubai are very affordable & always waiting in front of the resort. And honestly – we didn’t leave the resort once during our stay as you will find EVERYTHING you need right on the property! Including shops, restaurants, etc.

Already from the outside, the building of the Atlantis The Royal is unique. It looks like a modern interpretation of the castle-like building of the Atlantis, The Palm. The individual cuboids that make up the complex seem to float and seem to be only held together by magic. Despite its size, the building appears light as a feather. When we entered the lobby, we could hardly believe our eyes. It is overwhelming – yet not overloaded – with water and fire effects, huge artworks and an elegant bar. At check-in, we were warmly welcomed and escorted to our villa by our butler.

OUR VILLA AT THE ATLANTIS THE ROYAL

We got to stay in one of the most beautiful rooms in all of the Atlantis The Royal: Our Sky Pool Villa was located on the 42nd floor with incredible views of the sunset as well as the Palm Jumeirah & the Marina.

When we first stepped into the villa, we were just speechless! Through a small hallway with access to the guest bathroom and kitchen, it leads directly into the beautiful living room. It is completely windowed, allowing the room to be flooded with light throughout the day. Behind it is the cozy bedroom with sea view and balcony, and the spacious white marble bathroom with a freestanding bathtub. We could hardly believe our eyes when we saw the full size bath amenities from Hermes! Not only shampoo, shower gel and conditioner but also a full size body butter and perfume!

But now to the absolute highlight: The terrace with sun loungers, shower and our own infinity pool with probably the most incredible view in all of Dubai! The pool and the entire terrace are completely glazed so that you can admire the view from every angle – simply unbelievably beautiful!

The Sky Pool Villa at Atlantis The Royal is without a doubt one of the most beautiful suites we have ever stayed in and one of the most luxurious places in Dubai.

→ Book your stay here & check out different room categories!

POOL & BEACH

THE ROYAL POOL & BEACH

The main pool at the Atlantis is the Royal Pool, which is located right on the resort’s beach. There are quiet loungers as well as family-friendly spots at the shallow pool. The highlight is without a doubt the view of Atlantis The Royal with the unique design of the building! No matter how many times I had already marveled at it, I still could never take my eye off of it.

You can also use the sunbeds and umbrellas by the beach. The beach staff also takes care of drink requests and cabanas can be booked as well. The access to the sea is very shallow and consists of fine sand, which makes it suitable for children.

NOBU BY THE BEACH

If you want to enjoy an afternoon in the special Nobu setting with good music and fantastic food and cocktails, you will love Nobu By The Beach! Both the pool, the cabanas and sun loungers have a very tropical feel to them, as they are surrounded by numerous green and flowering plants, which not only make for a great ambience, but also for privacy. For me, it’s one of the most photogenic spots at the resort overlooking the striking main building. A great place to just unwind and spend a carefree day with friends. However, the sunbeds at Nobu By The Beach must be reserved!

CLOUD 22

Now to my personal highlight of the Atlantis The Royal. The Cloud 22 Pool Lounge and Bar, located on the 22nd floor with the probably most dreamlike view in Dubai: A seemingly endless infinity pool, which overlooks the entire Palm Jumeirah, the skyline of the Marina and the Atlantis The Palm, which suddenly seems very small from up here. Next to the pool, gorgeous cabanas and sun loungers surrounded by water, as well as a cloud-like bar, entice guests to relax in the sun. The selection of food as well as drinks was incredibly tasty and fresh. Perfect for a light lunch. Currently (as of summer 2023) Cloud 22, including the bar and pool, is open strictly to hotel guests, making it one of the most exclusive places in Dubai.

BREAKFAST & RESTAURANTS

The selection of dining options and bars at Atlantis The Royal leaves nothing to be desired. In all, there are eight restaurants at The Royal. Among them are fine dining options, but also casual restaurants like a USA West Coast-inspired diner. At the same time, thanks to the close proximity and a free shuttle, you can also use all the restaurants and bars at Atlantis The Palm!

These are my highlights, which we were able to test ourselves at Atlantis The Royal:

BREAKFAST AT “GASTRONOMY”

The large buffet restaurant “Gastronomy” offers without a doubt the largest breakfast selection I have ever experienced in a hotel. The restaurant is divided into different areas, which all have a certain theme and individually each have the size of a hotel buffet. So there is the Bakery, with daily fresh baked goods, an area with Asian cuisine, as well as a corner with a pizza oven, The Grill, Seafood and much more… my favorite was “The Orchard” with the focus on healthy dishes from fresh ingredients such as juices, smoothies, avocado toast, salad, … An eye-catcher here is the huge face of Neptune made of different vegetables! But also ice cream or even a chocolate fountain can be found on the buffet. The restaurant is also open in the evening where it offers freshly prepared dishes from different worldwide cuisines!

Jaleo

Modern Spanish cuisine in a casual setting reminiscent of a Madrid bodega. The signature dish at Jaleo are paellas made fresh over the fire. But their tapas and homemade croquettes are also heavenly! Both vegetarians and meat lovers will get their money’s worth here. Thanks to the authentic food and olive trees on the terrace, you feel like you’re actually in Spain!

Milos

The best location is the Milos Restaurant. It is located in its own building, opposite of the fountain of Atlantis The Royal. In the evening, spectacular shows with water, fire, music and light take place here every 15 minutes, which can best be observed from the terrace of Milos. As the name suggests, Greek cuisine awaits you here, but with a modern twist. The focus is on fish and seafood, but they also offer high-quality steaks and plenty of vegetarian options. My favorites were fava, Greek salad, and baked eggplant and zucchini with tzaziki – these classics were incredibly well executed and my favorite dinners at Atlantis The Royal!

ELEMENTS

On the other side of the fountain, adjacent to the lobby of Atlantis The Royal, is the Elements bar. The tables are located in sunken areas surrounded by water, from which small flames emerge. This is because, as the name suggests, all four natural elements are meant to be combined here. The signature cocktails are rather special and adventurous in taste, but classics and wines can also be ordered. In addition, there are small snacks in the evening, as well as modern shishas. It’s a great place to end the evening, with a view of the water and fire show.

LING LING

The best view is offered by the modern Asian Bar & Restaurant Ling Ling. The terrace looks out over the Palm Jumeirah illuminated at night as well as the Dubai skyline, while fresh cocktails and light Asian cuisine such as sushi, dumplings & co. can be enjoyed.

RÉSUMÉ OF MY HOTEL REVIEW ABOUT THE ATLANTIS THE ROYAL

Privacy or seeing and being seen, tranquility or action, … at Atlantis The Royal everyone will find what they are looking for. But one thing is certainly never missed: luxury and the feeling of experiencing something very special. Both the design and the entire concept of the resort is thought out to the smallest detail and thoroughly well implemented, making every guest feel welcome and valued. Especially the Sky Pool Villas and the pool of Cloud 22 are “out of this world” and can’t be compared to anything we have seen so far. The price category of the resort is very upscale, but those looking for an unforgettable stay with outstanding service and unique details will love the Atlantis The Royal!

→ Click here to book your stay at The Antlantis the Royal!

We had a sponsored stay at The Atlantis the Royal wich doesn`t influence in my opinion in this Hotel Review!

A landscape that seems to come straight out of a fairytale and colorful hot air balloons that float peacefully over the scenery early in the morning: That is Cappadocia.

It is one of the few destinations in the world that is even more beautiful in reality than in photos. Therefore, a trip to Cappadocia belongs on every bucket list!

The right hotel is guaranteed to make your trip even dreamier, as you will find the most beautiful small boutique hotels in the region. A common feature are the traditional cave rooms. The most beautiful among them: The Koza Cave Hotel in the heart of Cappadocia. In this hotel review of the Koza Cave Hotel in Cappadocia you will find out whether the hotel is the right choice for you:

My review of the Koza Cave Hotel

Location

In Cappadocia you will find most hotels, restaurants and shops in the town of Goreme. It is not the capital of the region, but rather a dreamy and touristic village. It is the ideal starting point for exploring the region, as the most beautiful sights and the well-known valleys are in the immediate vicinity.

The Koza Cave Hotel is one of the hotels located above the hill on which Goreme is built. The hotel’s rooftop is the highest in all of Goreme, offering the best view of the valley and the rising hot air balloons in the morning!

Rooms & Suites

Many houses around hotels in Goreme are built right into the soft sandstone found throughout the region. For thousands of years people have carved their dwellings and camps in the rock and even today visitors can stay in these caves. The Koza Cave Hotel offers a total of ten cave rooms and suites, all of which are individually designed and have different features. Due to the small number of rooms and the great popularity, you should book your desired room well in advance. 

→ Book your stay in the Koza Cave Hotel here!

Deluxe Cave Suite

We slept in one of the larger suites. The Deluxe Cave Suite with a total of 50 m² is located on several winding floors featuring a small living room with a fireplace, a cozy bedroom and a bathroom with a corner bath.

The interior of each room is individually designed, but they all feature locally handcrafted furnishings like big carpets, massive wooden furniture and antique decorations. I find the rooms super cozy and romantic. They immerse their visitors directly into the magical world of Cappadocia.

The Rooftop Terrace

The highlight of the Koza Cave Hotel is the carpeted and cushioned rooftop terrace with a breath-taking view. As already mentioned, it is the highest terrace in all of Goreme allowing for an uninterrupted view of the valley.

In the evening, the roof terrace also welcomes guests from outside the hotel to enjoy the sunset with drinks. But the real spectacle takes place early in the morning: the hot air balloons rising with the sun. At this time, access to the rooftop terrace is exclusively for hotel guests and is perfect for taking photos or just marveling!

It is truly a unique experience to see the numerous balloons floating over the unique landscape of Cappadocia while the rising sun transforms the sky into the most beautiful colors. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that the balloons will fly every day. If it is too windy, the ascent will be cancelled to avoid accidents. Therefore, you should stay at Koza Cave Hotel for at least two or three nights to have a significantly higher chance of being part of this moment. But even without balloons, the view is fantastic! 

The Concept of the Koza Cave Hotel – The Koza Experience

The Koza Cave Hotel in Cappadocia is a family-run boutique hotel. The family is not only extremely friendly and hospitable, but very well connected with various business operators in Cappadocia. Therefore the Koza Experience doesn’t end with your stay at the hotel, but can extend throughout your entire journey. I encourage you to take advance of the families’ insider knowledge of the Cappadocia region and build your Cappadocia must-do list based on the recommendations of the people that have spent their life there. 

The team takes great pleasure in organizing all the details that will make your trip unforgettable. The offers include photo shoots, whether in the hotel itself or in the region and the rental of stunning dresses for pictures (such as the long yellow dress you see in my photos). The family also organizes balloon rides and excursions for their guests. It is a unique and always warm service – we didn’t have to take care of anything during our trip!

If you have specific ideas and wishes, you can plan them ahead of your stay in order to secure your desired dates. You can always reach the team via WhatsApp or email on the Koza website.

In addition to this review of the Konza Cave Hotel, I have also published an article with the most beautiful places in Cappadocia. You should definitely read this post before your trip so that you don’t miss any highlights and secret spots! 

→ You can find my Cappadocia travel guide here!

Breakfast & Bar 

After a breath-taking sunrise on the roof terrace, the Koza team prepares a breakfast buffet in the small restaurant. The selection consists of traditional dishes and local products from the region. But classics like pancakes are also freshly prepared. The selection of warm dishes changes daily, but the Turkish breakfast classic Gözleme is a must! It’s a thin flatbread filled with cheese and various ingredients such as onions, spinach, tomatoes, … Super delicious!

The Hotel also offers you the option to enjoy your breakfast on the terrace with a view, together with a traditional Turkish tea or coffee.

Part of the breakfast buffet

Dusk by Koza

From the late afternoon, the terrace transforms into the Rooftop Bar Dusk by Koza. Serving very cool locally inspired cocktails and drinks as well as shisha and small snacks. This makes it the ideal place to enjoy the sunset in the evening.

Since the Koza Cave Hotel only has a small kitchen for snacks and breakfast, it does not have its own restaurant for dinner. However, you will find numerous great options for dinner in the immediate vicinity. You can find my restaurant tips for Göreme in my → Cappadocia travel guide.

Résumé of our experience at the Koza Cave Hotel

The Koza Cave Hotel is probably one of the smallest, but at the same time one of the dreamiest hotels we have ever stayed in. For me it is the first choice in Goreme, for an authentic experience as imagined in Cappadocia. Cozy cave rooms, a stunning view and warm hosts. The Koza Cave Hotel is the best-rated hotel in the region and my absolute favourite for a reason!

→ Click here to book your stay at the Koza Cave Hotel

We had a sponsored stay at the Koza Cave Hotel which does not influence my review and option about the hotel.

Dubai has many iconic hotels with new ones opening up every month. But one hotel which will always be the most famous one and even belongs to the landmarks in the city is the Atlantis The Palm Dubai! In this Hotel Review you’ll find out what lets this hotel stand out from the crowd.

Atlantis The Palm Dubai

LOCATION

The Atlantis is located at the famous Palm Jumeirah which makes it to the perfect location for a relaxing vacation with lots of sunshine. The resort is surrounded by a private beach with multiple pools and of course the big Aquaventure Waterpark. From the airport it only takes a 25-30 mins taxi ride to the Atlantis and in just 20 mins you can reach the Dubai Mall and the famous Burj Khalifa.

Rooms & Suites

During our stay at the Atlantis The Palm Dubai we had the chance to check out two different categories: A King Room with Imperial Club Access and the biggest suite in the whole resort: The Royal Bridge Suite.

Imperial Club King Room

This category is perfect for couples: A big room with a cozy king bed, balcony and my highlight: A luxurious bathroom with a tub which stands right next to a sliding door which can be opened completely to watch the window view through the bedroom. From the balcony we had a great view over the Royal pool & beach and the Dubai Marina skyline behind The Palm.

Imperial Club

Booking a Room or Suite with Imperial Club Access is the perfect idea if you like to enjoy some snacks whenever you’re in the mood for it, a quiet and intimate breakfast atmosphere plus drinks and pre dinner bites in the evening. It’s the biggest lounge we’ve ever seen in a hotel with a private Lobby for Check-In, a huge and well equipped bar, a buffet which changes throughout the day and even a beautiful sunset terrace which is the best place to enjoy some evening cocktails.

Royal Bridge Suite

During our last day at the Atlantis we had the chance to visit their biggest suite which is one of the most expensive suites in the world: The Royal Bridge Suite located at the highest floor of the Atlantis. It is only accessible via a private and well hidden elevator for a maximum of privacy. 3,000 square feet of luxury with several bedrooms, bathrooms, the biggest living room I’ve ever seen, billiard room, dining room and what not! A highlight is the huge and royal balcony which leads one time around the whole suite and offers a panoramic view over The Palm and the Arabian Gulf. The master bedroom has two private bathrooms which are designed like a Turkish Hammam with lots of gold and marble. The Royal Bridge Suite is favored by many stars & Royals visiting Dubai and as soon as you enter it you clearly feel why.

Specials of The Atlantis The Palm

The Atlantis The Palm Dubai is not only a resort but more of a “theme park” for adults & families – they have everything you could possibly look for during your stay: No matter if restaurants, night clubs, shops, kids activities, spa & salons, … So it’s not even necessary to leave the resort at all during your stay if you don’t like to!

The Pool & Beach

As already mentioned above the Atlantis is surrounded by a sandy beach which is only accessible for hotel guests. The water is very shallow and usually warm which makes it to a great place to practice some stand up paddling or simply relax in the sun loungers. All together the Atlantis has three pools: The biggest one is the Royal Pool which usually also has the most visitors. If you want to relax I would suggest you the Zero Entry Pool which is designed like a lagoon with shallow water and the Nasimi Restaurant right behind it. All Pools have sun beds and towels which are of course included for all hotel guests. The third pool – an infinity pool – with a view right at The Palm and the Marina Skyline is located at the WHITE Beach Club.

The WHITE Beach Club Dubai

This is one of the newest and most stylish Beach Clubs in Dubai which gave us a total Tulum vibe! We loved the design of the WHITE Beach Club, the live DJ, the atmosphere and of course the amazing view from the infinity pool right at the beach. The drinks and snacks from the WHITE Restaurant are incredibly fresh & delicious! My favorite has been the avocado & truffle pizza – definitely don’t miss it if you’re coming. The entry is only for adults 21+ and the fee is AED 150 (40 USD )which you get back on a food & drinks during your visit. On Thursdays the have special offers with unlimited food & drinks which you can find here! I can highly recommend to book your lounger in advance since the seats are limited and booked out quickly – especially Thursdays & Fridays.

Aquaventure Waterpark

What makes The Atlantis The Palm Dubai so famous is not only its unique shape but also the extensive waterpark. Guests who stay at the Atlantis can enjoy a free entry throughout the entire stay which is incredible! So you can split your visit of the park and discover all areas on different days or simply use your favorite slide as often as you want! I can highly recommend to visit the waterpark right at the opening hour 9.45 am – that’s how you will have the park almost to yourself and don’t have to wait in lines at the slides. It usually only gets full during midday.

The Lost Chambers Aquarium

Another attraction which is free for hotel guests are the Lost Chambers Aquariums to discover the maritime life. The highlight is without any question the Ambassador Lagoon: a 11-million-litre aquarium which is home of a large number a sharks, rays and fish. All species living here can be found in the Arabian Gulf as well but unfortunately many of them are endangered. The Atlantis has several maritime biologists which do research about the animals and helps to spread awareness about the shrinking population of sharks & rays all around the globe! At the same time they have a breeding program which releases sharks & rays back into the gulf to repopulate it.

P.S. If obscuring these gracious animals through a glass wall isn’t enough for you, the Atlantis offers snorkeling and diving sessions in the Ambassador Lagoon. We did the snorkeling session on our last day and absolutely loved to see the lagoon and its inhabitants from this perspective.

Breakfast & Restaurants

Due to its extensive size the Atlantis has a whopping 30 restaurants, bars and lounges! With big names like NOBU or Gordon Ramsey to Beach Bars and small restaurants for a quick lunch. Even for breakfast hotel guests have different options to decide from:

Breakfast at the Atlantis The Palm Dubai

You can find two breakfast buffet restaurants at the Atlantis – one at each tower. They offer a wide selection from international cuisine, Arabian specialities and Asian options. A highlight for me was the chocolate fountain – what a way to start the day! This buffet definitely has the right choices for EVERYONE.

Due to our included access to the Imperial Club we also had the option to enjoy our breakfast there. The atmosphere is more quiet and calm with a smaller but still amazing selection of breakfast choices. If you like to start your day a bit more laidback than I can highly recommend you to enjoy your breakfast in the lounge. But plan at least one morning to check out the immense variation of the Kaleidoscope or Saffron Breakfast Buffet Restaurant too! If you come early it will still be quiet

Seafire Steakhouse & Bar

Choosing the right restaurant of so many options wasn’t an easy decision but we followed a recommendation and went to the Seafire Steakhouse – which really surprised us! The interior is stylish & elegant but still rustic & cozy with an open kitchen to watch the chef, a wine cellar and a vintage Bar. The centerpiece of the restaurant is the excellent beef with the finest cuts and quality. After an Amuse Bouche from the chef we ordered two of their signature starters which both have been amazing plus a beef tenderloin & beef cheeks with several sides. The taste has been incredibly flavorful and the size of the portions very generous. For the dessert we got surprised with a collection of all their desserts. Together with a pairing bottle of wine it’s been our favorite & most memorable restaurant visit in Dubai! I highly recommend the Seafire Steakhouse for an unforgettable dinner experience! P.S. They also have great veggie options on their menu

RÉSUMÉ

Wow! The Atlantis The Palm is definitely more than just a regular resort in Dubai – this place feels like stepping into another world full of enjoyment, relaxation & pleasure for all kind of travelers: No matter if families with kids, couples who enjoy fine culinary or friends who like to party! We only stayed here for two nights which clearly wasn’t enough to explore the whole complex to the fullest but now we know that the Atlantis The Palm Dubai is the most famous hotel in Dubai for a good reason!

Click here to organize your own stay The Atlantis The Palm Dubai

You may also like:

• The best things to do in Dubai & Abu Dhabi

• The hotel with the best view in the city: The Shangri-La Dubai

We had a sponsored stay at the Atlantis The Palm Dubai

If you’re coming to Dubai to enjoy the beach, relaxing pool days while being close to the best restaurants and bars in town then the JBR area in Dubai is the perfect place to stay for you. The Rixos Premium Dubai is the most iconic building of the JBR skyline but the hotel convinced us in even more way… Read more about our stay in my Rixos Premium Dubai Hotel Review:

Rixos Premium Dubai

LOCATION

The Rixos Premium is located at the JBR Beach not far from Dubai Marina. Surrounded by restaurants, shops and cafes, right at the beach promenade, it’s the ideal location for travelers which come to Dubai for some relaxing holidays. The Rixos Premium Dubai is without any question the most remarkable hotel of the JBR skyline. The area is just a 25-30 minutes taxi ride away from the DXB Dubai International Airport and it only takes 15-20 minutes to reach Downtown with the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall.

The Rooms & Suites

The Rixos Premium Dubai offers a variety of different room and suite categories for couples to big families on 35 floors. All rooms have a modern interior with a splash of colors but what makes them outstanding is the view over the Arabian Gulf.

Premium Two Bedroom Suite

Entering this remarkable Suite you will instantly get greeted by the incredible panoramic view over the Gulf, Bluewaters Island and even Palm Jumeirah through the floor-to-ceiling window facade of the living room. This room is without any question the heart of the suite with an extensive size, a cozy couch right in the center, relaxing seats and a dining table.
As the name already implies this suite has two bedrooms – one to the right and the other to the left side of the suite. Both have a direct connection to separate bathrooms. The bathrooms are spacious with a rain shower and a bath tub. Since they are both located in the center of the suite they unfortunately don’t have windows to enjoy the views – but that’s what you can do from every other corner of this 125 m² huge suite!

Pool & Beach – The Azure Beach Club

What makes the Rixos Premium Dubai to the best hotel at JBR Beach is the fact that they have an amazing pool with beach access with a direct view to the Ferris wheel of Bluewaters Island: The Azure Beach Club. No matter if you prefer to have your feet in the sand while tanning, lay next to the pool with some cocktails or enjoy some privacy in your own cabana with a private plunge pool. This place has it ALL and is the most famous Beach Club in JBR. Azure Beach is also open for non-hotel guests for an additional entry fee. Hotel guests can of course enjoy all facilities for free. I also loved their poolside dining possibilities – our vegetarian Sushi Platter has been so fresh & good!

Make sure to go to the Beach for sunset time and watch how the sky & sea turns into the most beautiful pastel colors! Having your feet in the warm water of the Arabian Gulf, the iconic view of Bluewaters Island right in front of you and a cool drink in your hands is the best combination to end a hot day in Dubai!

Another great tip for adrenaline junkies is to rent a jet ski and drive through the bay while enjoying the incredible views all around you! You can rent them – beside many more water sport activities – right at the beach of the Rixos Premium.

Breakfast & Restaurants

The dining possibilities at the Rixos Premium JBR are endless! All together seven restaurants & the Godiva Cafe offer a great variation for everyone. Like the Black Tap which is one of the best restaurants in Dubai for Burgers and Shakes or the Luigia Ristorante which serves delicious Italian cuisine.

Turquoise Restaurant

The Main Restaurant Turquoise serves Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner in a comfortable setting. I especially loved to sit outdoors on their terrace in the evening to enjoy the warm nights with some good food. The restaurant has a buffet concept with several station where the Turkish and International food will freshly be prepared. It’s been great to test traditional dishes and specialities while also having a great choice of international classics. I love how dedicated they are about desserts, homemade cakes and Turkish Baklava choices – as a sweet tooth this made me really excited

RÉSUMÉ

If you’re looking for a hotel in Dubai to enjoy a vacation with friends or as a couple who like to have a mix of relaxation, partying, meeting new people, having great dining options while being just a step away from the Dubai city life than the Rixos Premium Dubai is your perfect choice! The hotel is super stylish, the views are amazing & you will surely never get bored

Click here to organize your own stay at the Rixos Premium Dubai

Find more reviews of my favorite hotels around the world here!

We had a sponsored stay at the Rixos Premium Dubai

Dubai is a city which never sleeps. While we really enjoy the vibrating energy of the metropolis we we’re looking for a relaxing getaway for our last days of our Dubai trip to take it a bit slow before heading back home to Germany. That’s when we found the Rixos The Palm Dubai. Read in my Hotel Review what we enjoyed the most about our stay.

Rixos The Palm Dubai

LOCATION

As the name already implies the Rixos The Palm Dubai is located on the artificial island “Palm Jumeirah” close to Dubais Marina area. The island is known for its luxury resorts and great views over the skyline while being surrounded by the warm and calm water of the Arabian Gulf. It’s the ideal location if you’re planning a relaxing vacation while having many sightseeing spots or shopping possibilities just a quick taxi ride away. Jumeirah Beach / Burj Al Arab are just 25 mins away and to reach the famous Burj Khalifa it takes a 45 mins ride. Taxis in Dubai are very affordable in general and mostly waiting in front of the hotel or can quickly be called by the reception.

Rooms

The Rixos The Palm Dubai is the ideal hotel for all kind of travelers no matter if couples, friends or families with kids. That’s why they have a large variety of room for all needs from Deluxe Rooms for two people to big suites with several bedrooms for the whole family.

Premium Room with Sea View

During our stay we slept in a Premium Room with a balcony. Located on the fourth floor we had the best view over the resort, the sea and the view of the Dubai Marina skyline behind it. The interior of their rooms is luxurious and modern with a beautiful color palette of warm brown and beige tones.

Our room consists of a bedroom and a living area with a room divider in between. Next to the bedroom is the spacious bathroom with two sinks, a rain shower and even a bathtub. I loved the idea that they put shutters next to the tub so you could decide yourself if you rather want to have privacy or views in the room and to the balcony while you’re taking a bath.

Included in the All Inclusive concept is not only the tea and coffee selection but also the mini bar with soft drinks, beer and snacks.

The Concept of the Rixos The Palm Dubai

Luxury All Inclusive

The Rixos The Palm Dubai is an All Inclusive Resort – but not in the way you might know it from other places. We have been extremely surprised by the high quality selection of brands and food which all guests have unlimited access to. The cocktails are excellent and made with a love for details and their restaurants will leave you speechless! It’s without any doubt one of the best All Inclusive concepts we ever experienced!

Water sports and fitness

At the beach all non motorized water sport equipment like paddle boards can be rented for free during your stay. If you need a bit more adrenaline you can book a jet ski or banana boat ride for an additional charge.

Fitness lovers can join workout programs like beach yoga, spinning classes or even in pool workout sessions. The “jungle gym” at the beach is a great way to workout in the calm morning or evening while enjoying a fresh ocean breeze.

The Pool & Beach

Altogether the Rixos has four pools on their premises: One adults only pool, one for the Suite guests, one at the gated kids club and the main pool right before the beach. We spent most of our time at the main pool since it has beautiful cabanas to relax surrounded by palm trees and an amazing view. Due to this great location you can always hop between the sea or the pool to refresh.

Beach and Pool Cabanas need a reservation in advance but are free of charge and the sun beds can be used anytime.

You can find two bars, one fruit stand and a snack restaurant at the main pool to serve you with drinks and food whenever you’re in the mood for it. Of course all of them are included in the Ultra All Inclusive Package.

Breakfast & Restaurants

As already mentioned above the Ultra All Inclusive Concept of the Rixos The Palm Dubai leaves nothing to be desired. Altogether you can find three à la carte restaurants, one buffet restaurant and several bars plus a patisserie and the sunset Shisha & Cocktail Lounge.

Main Restaurant A La Turca

The biggest dining option in the resort is the buffet style restaurant A La Turca. It serves breakfast, lunch and dinner for those which like to have a wide variation of dishes to choose from.

I loved that the breakfast buffet is designed like a market with different stalls. So you find one with fruits and fresh juices, another one with fish, one with pastries and donuts, homemade jams and so much more! It was honestly hard to decide from all these amazing choices.

Patisserie Istanbul

Everyone who knows me also knows that I have a sweet tooth and can never say now to cake! So you can imagine that the lobby lounge “Patisserie Istanbul” has been like heaven for me! It’s the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon coffee with some fresh baklava or delicious tartlets.

Aqua & More Seafood Restaurant

For dinner we preferred to dine in one of the à la carte restaurants. We stayed at the Rixos for three nights which means that we had one night for each of them.
We had our first dinner at the seafood restaurant Aqua & More which serves a Mediterranean & Oriental variety of mostly seafood dishes (of course they also have meat and veggie options). My favorite have been the selection of fresh traditional Mezze as a starter and the grilled sea bass in lemon butter sauce.

L Olivo

This Italian restaurant honestly left us speechless. We didn’t expect such an incredible & authentic choice of pasta, pizza and antipasti dishes! Make sure to try the truffle mushroom risotto and the beef stuffed ravioli which make you feel like you’re in Italy!

Toro Loco Steakhouse

I saved our most memorable dinner experience in Dubai for the end cause wow – there is definitely a reason this popular steakhouse is called LOCO! The restaurant manager Isa and his team running this place with so much energy and ingenuity that it will take your breath away. I’m talking about unforgettable live cooking shows with fire and much more right at your table. For the best show make sure to order the “flaming burger” as a dessert – you won’t regret it The Toro Loco combines amazing food and a great show in the best way!

RÉSUMÉ

After these crazy months we all need some time to unwind and care about nothing but where we should relax first: the pool or the beach? And the Rixos The Palm Dubai is the right place for it! The resort is the perfect summary of amazing food options, finest relaxation, sunny weather every single day and a superb all inclusive concept. The resort is very family friendly but is also offering privacy for couples at the same time. The Rixos The Palm Dubai has been the perfect resort to end our trip in Dubai and to take life slow for a few days.

Click here to organize your own stay the Rixos The Palm Dubai

You may also like to read:

• The best things to do in Dubai & Abu Dhabi 

• The Hotel with the best view in Dubai: My Review of the Shangri-La Dubai

We had a sponsored stay at the Rixos The Palm Dubai.

Dubai is a bustling metropole which never sleeps. For travelers it’s important to be close to the heart of the city and to have the best views at the Burj Khalifa – the tallest building in the world. But at the same time it’s nice to have a relaxing place with delicious food options to return after an exhausting day. The Shangri-La Hotel in Dubai covers it all! This is my hotel review about our stay:

Shangri-La Dubai Review

LOCATION

Located in Dubais International Financial Centre, the Shangri-La is located just some minutes away from the Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa. Due to this amazing location, the views from most rooms and from other hotel areas like the pools or the terrace are absolutely mind blowing!
Taxis are waiting in front of the hotel all day long so it’s easy to get a quick ride to the Burj Khalifa instead of walking in the midday heat. If you wanna take the train to a more remote area then you can find the train station just a quick walk away from the hotel.
Even though the Shangri-La is located very central it’s just a 15 mins taxi ride away from the international airport DXB.

The Lobby

Walking in the Lobby you instantly step into the elegant world of Shangri-La combined with Arabic elements. The Lobby Lounge is the ideal place to relax or meet up with clients. My favorite part about it was definitely the amazing selection of cakes they offer for an afternoon tea – which is just perfect for a sweets lover like me!

Our Room

Deluxe Burj Khalifa View Room

With all together 302 rooms and suites the Shangri-La Dubai offers different room categories for families or couples. Not all rooms have a view at the Burj Khalifa so make sure to book the Deluxe Burj Khalifa View Room if you wanna admire the tallest building in the world right from your sofa. The higher the floor the better the view! We had our room at level 35 of all together 42 floors.

The Rooms are very spacious with a cozy bed, a desk and a sofa at your window with Burj Khalifa view! The interior is timeless and elegant with many wooden details. The bathroom is also very spacious with a shower and bathtub.
All deluxe rooms are equipped with many amenities you could possibly need during your stay and with a boiler with a great selection of tea and instant coffee.

Spa & Pools

CHI, The Spa

The Shangri-La Dubai is like an oasis in the middle of this bustling metropolis. The Spa Area CHI is the perfect place to unwind and calm down. The massages and treatments are inspired by Asian natural healing methods. I had a one hour full body massage and felt completely renewed afterwards. Spa Facilities like steam rooms and saunas can be used after your treatment free of charge.
Due to the current situation all massage therapist and guests have to wear their masks during the treatments so everyone can feel safe.

Health Club & Indoor Pool

Located on the 42th floor with an incredible view over the Financial Centre and the Burj Khalifa is the Gym located as well as the indoor swimming pool and jacuzzi. Thats definitely an incredible place to work out or simply to refresh in the cool pool.

Outdoor Pool Area

No matter if you want to soak in the warm Arabian sun or to relax in the shadow while sipping a fresh cocktail, the outdoor pool area of the Shangri-La is the ideal place for a lazy day. Beside the main pool with pool bar you’ll find a kids basin and hot jacuzzi. It gets quite busy during the day but in view to the current situation all sun loungers are located at least 2m from each other to keep distance.
We loved to come down to the pool for a swim before breakfast and to enjoy the lovely view of the Burj Khalifa right from the water.

The View

As you may already have noticed in my hotel review: The Shangri-La Dubai is all about incredible views. That’s why it’s a famous location for photographers and Instagrammers just like myself. If you wanna get the iconic shot, head up to the 42th floor and you will see two terraces with the famous Burj Khalifa view. I especially loved the sight right after sunset when all the lights started to blink and the city get’s a surreal atmosphere!

Private Dining with a view

If you’re maybe planning your Dubai visit for a special occasion like an anniversary, birthday or engagement, I can highly recommend you to book a private dining at the 42th floor. The Shangri-La team will arrange a beautiful individual setup on the right terrace which will be reserved just for you. Especially a sunset dinner or private breakfast will definitely be an unforgettable memory! Sitting on top of Dubai, eating pancakes and overlooking the tallest building in the world was an absolute “Pinch me!” moment that I’ll never forget!

Breakfast & Restaurants

Main Restaurant Dunes Café

Dunes Café is the all day dining restaurant of the Shangri-La with an elegant design and a lovely terrace to sit in the shadow. Breakfast is served daily until 11 am at the buffet with a great selection of international, Asian and Arabic dishes. Due to Covid-19 the items of the buffet can’t be taken by yourself but will be served by one of the staff members to avoid close contact of the food with many people. Additionally you can order fresh egg dishes which will be served to your table.

The Shang Palace

Our favorite restaurant of the Shangri-La Dubai is the Shang Palace with an authentic traditional Chinese cuisine. We tried different starters which all have been amazing! Their signature dish is crispy Peking duck which will be cut right at your table and served with several sauces, cucumber and spring onions to wrap them in traditional pancakes. It’s one of our all time favorite dishes and we have been amazed by the quality here at the Shang Palace! Make sure you don’t miss this incredible restaurant when you’re in Dubai – it’s also open for non hotel guests.

Hoi An

The third restaurant serves Vietnamese delights and traditional dishes like summer rolls, Pho soup or Banh Mi. Make sure you don’t miss the evening Khai Vi Brunch and enjoy a selection of all their dishes from appetizers to desserts every Friday and Saturday from 7-11 pm.

RÉSUMÉ

The Shangri-La Dubai is one of the best hotels in the city! The combination of the incredible hospitality, ideal location, amazing dining possibilities and of course the mind-blowing views make it to the perfect accommodation for a sunny holiday or business trip. You will have an amazing stay for sure!

→ Click here to book your stay at the Shangri-La Dubai

You may also be interested in:

• The best things to do in Dubai & Abu Dhabi

• My Hotel Review of the Rixos The Palm Dubai – the perfect resort to relax in Dubai

We had a sponsored stay at the Shangri-La Dubai

Planning a trip to Turkey to see the balloons flying over Cappadocia? The Museum Hotel offers an iconic view over the whole valley from a heated pool!

The Museum Hotel is a historical hotel in the heart of Cappadocia. The closest airport to visit this area in Turkey is the Kayseri airport. With our rental car we needed around one hour to reach the hotel.
Other than most of the well known hotels the Museum Hotel is not located in Göreme but in Uchisar. Both villages are only 5 minutes away from each other but Uchisar is located on a higher area while Göreme is in the valley. This means you get an iconic view from the Museum Hotel!

The Museum Hotel is a boutique hotel of the Relais & Châteaux group.
As the name already implies this unique hotel literally is a museum. Every part of the hotel – the rooms, restaurant, the outdoor area – display artifacts and art pieces wich reflect the history of the area.
You can wander through the hotel and discover new details in every corner. We felt like back in another time 

The Museum Hotel consists of only 30 rooms & suites which are all unique in their own way.

Eftelya Cave Suite (Room Category: Deluxe Suite)

The room is located in a traditional cave which are famous for this region. Our cozy home consists of a bedroom, living room and a really huge bathroom.

My favorite part about the room was the unlimited red and white wine tap in the living room. Yes you heard it right! Wine is literally flowing out of the wall – as much as you want.

On the premises of the Museum Hotel living peacocks, pigeons and even turtles in beautiful gardens! Waking up to the singing peacock and watching the cute little turtles really gave the hotel a special atmosphere.

The Peacock Garden

The turtles have been found here during the renovations so they decided to keep them in their own little garden

The Pool

The best part of the hotel is definitely the heated pool from which you can overlook the valley. The beautiful floor of the pool is an original restored mosaic.
Even so the pool is the most famous location to take photos of the balloons in the morning it is not crowded at all. We only met one couple during sunrise which did a wedding shooting.

P.S. The balloons in Cappadocia are not flying every morning – only if the weather is clear and there is no wind going.

The Museum Hotel is the ideal place to stay in Cappadocia for couples. The atmosphere is really unique and romantic.
Details like the historical artifacts, the views, the excellent breakfast or wine from the tap make it to an exclusive and unforgettable stay.

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My Cappadocia Travel Guide with all Must See places