For a lovely breeze and a turquoise blue sea you can see from your bedroom, head to The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi.
The award-winning resort is comfortable to the core: an opulent lobby, 377 rooms and suites with balconies that max out on the view, seven bars and restaurants, several ballrooms and a private beach.
Fancy a sprawling space? We’d recommend the Royal Suite. Bespoke décor with a color palette inspired by earthy beiges and teal blue and dramatic artwork all add glamour to the 2,000sq.m duplex. The resort sure puts the emphasis on lifestyle and luxury as is evident by the Majestic Suite, Ocean Suites and Spa-Theme Suites, among others.
It is the food that steals the show at the resort’s award-winning signature restaurant 55&5th The Grill, which is known for its steaks grilled to perfection. Be sure to try it out. Seafood and beach views? Book a table at Turquoiz beach restaurant.
If you are a gourmand, help yourself to some fine dishes at Olea and Sontaya. Romantic ambience, floating pavilions and Southeast Asian cuisine at Sontaya is the big draw. Dig into yummy snacks at the Manhattan Lounge, sip your evening tea at The Drawing Room or find a ‘cure’ for your cravings for all things sweet at the Sucre Patisserie.
Devote at least a day to the Iridium Spa and Hammam. Where to start? How about the hammam with its ancient bathing and cleansing rituals inspired by oriental cultures? Needless to say, with 12 treatment rooms at the spa and specialized treatments and pampering options, you will be spoilt for choice. Highly skilled therapists will knead the tired muscles and have you rejuvenated in no time. Enjoy!
Getting there: The natural island Saadiyat is barely a 30-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport.
Book It: www.stregissaadiyatisland.com
Smitha Sadanandan