If you get the itch to travel but can’t, just point yourself in the direction of Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort for a staycation that will transport you a million miles away. Well, 3,017 miles, more precisely, as this beachside bolt-hole draws inspiration from Thailand, fusing the Middle East’s penchant for luxury with Thailand’s unsurpassed service.
Perched almost at the tip of Palm Jumeirah’s East frond, the resort spreads itself across 400 metres of private shoreline, blending beach, bucolic landscaped gardens and Thai-style villas to create an idyllic enclave just a stone’s throw from the city. The best of both worlds for those wanting a touch of the tropics with the amenities and accessibility of an urban environment.
Whilst offering the only over-water villas in the UAE, the Premier and Deluxe Lagoon View Rooms work perfectly for families. Dotted around the resort’s three temperature-controlled lagoons, the 47sqm and 52sqm rooms each have balconies – and direct entrance into the lagoon for those on the lower level – with views stretching out over palm trees and the tempting turquoise water.
Decked out in dark woods that feel distinctly Asian-infused, the rooms are spacious and uncluttered, filled with all you need – a generous king-size bed, a desk, vanity table, walk-in wardrobe, and a sofa perfectly positioned to drink in the views.
The bathroom is light and airy, contrasting the room’s dark wood, with a huge shower, Jack‘n’Jill sinks and deep bathtub that looks incredibly inviting. Bath products are full-size for sharing while the amenities are all wrapped in recycled packaging, allowing the hotel to do its sustainable bit.
The balcony, with its two wicker sun loungers, looks over the lagoon, with playful laughter drifting up from swimmers below. Venturing down, access is either from your own balcony, or from secluded little bays around the water’s edge.
Swimming here is more relaxed than at the main pool, giving the feel of drifting along a lazy river. As a longboat floats by serving cocktails and mocktails, the tropical island fantasy is complete.
A morning Longtail Boat Ride offers an excellent vantage point from which to view Palm Jumeirah, followed by a long, languid lunch at the light-filled Beach House of salads and gnocchi.
With so much greenery, water and Thai-infused luxury to hand, it’s hard not feel like you’re somewhere else entirely. A truly special beach escape.
Stay:
WHAT: Premier Lagoon View Room
WHERE: Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort
TEL: +971 4 567 8888