Staycation in Style This Summer at Banyan Tree Dubai
Explore a new destination without leaving the city…
The striped orange parasols at Alizée are already iconic, captured by all in-the-know Instagrammers looking to showcase sea, sand and the sun-filled good life. Nestled in plush cabanas, or alongside multiple pools that comprise one of the most stunning beachside outdoor spots in the city, the Banyan Tree – which has taken over one of the hotels that previously comprised the Caesar’s Palace property – oozes holiday vibes. Feast on Roquefort salads, slivers of truffle-topped beef carpaccio, and grilled tiger prawns and you’ll be transported to the Mediterranean. That holiday feeling gets dialled up the moment you drive onto Bluewaters, even though you’re still in the heart of Dubai.
Banyan Tree is synonymous with Far Eastern hospitality; the Dubai incarnation lives up to this promise. 179 beautifully appointed, sprawling rooms, complete with lux stand-alone baths, feel expensive, yet understated – it’s a masterclass on hotel interior design. From tea rituals and kawaii teddy bear-shaped buns at Japanese Tocha to nuanced Chinese dishes courtesy of celebrity chef Alvin Cheung at Demon Duck, and Kobe beef and sushi at Japanese TakaHisa, the culinary cognoscenti will be suitably impressed.
The vicinity itself is reason enough to visit, with entertainment and dining options that’ll keep you busy for days. Stroll alongside the waterside broadwalk for spectacular Dubai Marina views, and keep the clan amused with attractions that range from a Madame Tussauds Museum to multi-room play emporium Tr88house and camera-friendly Illusion City.
Looking for a restaurant to tick off your list? Opt for Nikkei cuisine specialist Clay, which is set alongside Ain Dubai. Take a balcony table, or sit on the sushi counter to watch the masters concoct signature rolls, served alongside sharing plates of seafood ceviche and their signature tuna tacos, karaange chicken and Andean 12-hour cooked short ribs.
Other options to explore include Southern Italian stalwart Alici, Mexican Puerto 99 and the always lively The London Project – a solid brunch choice on the weekend.
For more information visit bluewatersdubai.ae, banyantreedubai.com
Images supplied.
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s June 2024 issue.