Earlier this month our Editor in Chief Laura and I took a week-long girls trip to Dubai (which you can read all about HERE).
We ended our trip with two magical nights at the Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort (which feels like you’re on a Maldivian island, it’s truly stunning!).
During our stay I was so inspired by the beach-y decor; the woven lighting, solid wood tables and splashes of teal – I instantly knew I had to create a “get the look” to help you re-create this beautiful decor within your home!
Where? Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort: East Crescent, Palm – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
As your car pulls onto the forecourt of Anantara The Palm, you instantly feel yourself relax into the surroundings; a world away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai lies this slice of luxury welcomes you with open arms.
Upon arrival you’re instantly transported back to Thailand, greeting of “Sawadee” ring out around the lobby, fresh lemongrass drinks are served with cold refreshing towels upon check in. The lobby stands in grandeur with it dark wooden atrium, fresh flowers and friendly staff ready to help you feel at home. After a tour of the resort we made our way to our Over Water Villa (the first of its kind across the Middle East – a great claim that Anantara The Palm stands proud on), we arrived as the sun was setting across The Palm from our villa, it was a magical way to start our stay.
Room categories?
Anantara The Palm is a family friendly resort, if you’re looking to travel with children then the “Lagoon Access” rooms are for you; giving you direct access to one of the three temperature-controlled swimming lagoons.
Multiple room categories ensure that there’s something for everyone, from lagoon access rooms to pool villas and over water villas.
We had the pleasure of spending two nights in an over water villa; the UAE’s first and only of it’s kind. Relax on your sun soaked terrace, in your private cabana or take a soak in your tub overlooking the water.
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort – Premier Lagoon View Room from AED 900/£209 (excluding taxes) for two people inclusive of Breakfast. To book visit www.anantara.com/palm-dubai
Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort – Junior Ocean View Suite from AED 1500/£348 (excluding taxes) for two people inclusive of Breakfast. To book visit www.anantara.com/world-islands-dubai
The dining options?
On our first night we dined at Mekong; Anantara’s Thai cuisine restaurant; you feel like you’ve stepped into Thailand the moment you’re through the door. Dine on Asian delicacies, from signature curry dishes to dumplings and Pad Thai – the food is truly delicious.
Our second night saw us journeying to Australia at Bushman’s for upscale Aussie dining here at Anantara The Palm. Experience the taste of the outback with Wagyu steaks, BBQ dishes and locally caught fish – this restaurant offers a luxury dining experience Down Under.
Dining options you’ll find atAnantaraThe Palm:
The Beach House; casual Mediterranean dining Mekong; traditional Asian cuisine Crescendo; global and regional fare Bushman’s restaurant and bar; upscale Aussie dining The Lotus Lounge; laid back lounging Revo cafe; all-day boardwalk restaurant Dining by design; custom culinary journey Mai bar; poolside terrace and swim up bar
Need to know?
Located on the world-famous Palm Jumeirah just off the coast of Dubai, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort boasts 400 metres of private shoreline and expansive views of the Arabian Gulf.
On site you’ll find water sports and long-tail boat experiences, wellness programmes at Anantara Spa, kids clubs and multiple dining options making Anantara The Palm the perfect place to escape the everyday on your trip to Dubai.
Take flight with Etihad : Fly Business Class to Abu Dhabi…
From the seamless check in at London Heathrow right through to when we touched down on the tarmac at Abu Dhabi, our business class flight with Etihad was of the highest standard, from start to finish.
You’ll be welcomed on board with warm faces of the Ethiad cabin crew; bringing you fresh drinks and ensuring your comfort throughout the flight, it’s like they truly can’t do enough to help you.
Kick back and relax in your seat, tune into some of the latest films, TV series’ and music albums whilst you enjoy your flight with Etihad. I’ve never felt so taken care of on a flight and I couldn’t wait to fly home just to spend another 7 hours in Etihad business class – it really is another world!
Business class – What to expect on board?
Business class flights with Etihad from London Heathrow to Abu Dhabi start from £2,787. On board you’ll find A la carte dining from a delicious ever changing menu, an Acqua di Parma toiletry bag, fresh drinks upon boarding, wellness kits and cosy blankets.
Nervous flyer? Etihad has the Calm app in flight to help you relax!
Need to know?
Opt for additional extras such as lounge access and chauffeur services to ensure your journey is even more seamless from start to finish.
Flying Economy:
Return economy fares flying from London Heathrow to Abu Dhabi start at GBP 554 and fares flying from Manchester start at GBP 603. When flying from Ireland, economy fares from Dublin start at EUR 796.
Etihad’s economy cabins provide reclining seats, full-sized blankets and pillows, alongside in-flight meals and drinks included in the fare. Travelers can also enjoy hundreds of hours of on-demand movies, boxsets, music and live TV on E-BOX.
Economy seats can be upgraded to Economy Space, providing the passengers with extra legroom or Economy Neighbour-free to grant an entire row to themselves.
Flying Business Class:
Return business fares flying from London Heathrow start at GBP 2,787 and fares flying from Manchester start at GBP 3,263. When flying from Ireland, return fares from Dublin start at EUR 3,643.
Etihad’s business class cabins provide a variety of luxuries, such as a 22” wide reclining lounge chair, which can be converted into a flat bed, encompassed with electronic seat controls and an in-seat massage. A turn-down service is available on long-haul flights. Passengers also receive a range of storage, with an ottoman with carry-on stowage underneath and a side stowage cabinet. Travellers can enjoy on-demand entertainment on an 18” monitor with noise-cancelling headphones.
Business class includes a dine anytime service, with a dedicated food and beverage manager. Passengers also receive brand-name amenities with skincare products, dental kit, socks, eyeshades and earplugs on selected flights.
Discover the ultimate tips on where to stay, eat, and shop during your Dubai trip with A Girls Guide to Dubai.
Having recently returned from a trip to Dubai with our Editor-in-chief Laura, we were working on discovering all of the very best places for a girl’s trip to Dubai and feel like we’ve perfected an itinerary to help you plan your upcoming trip!
From beach clubs to the best places to stay, eat & shop – we’ve got you covered! Save this post down to help plan your girl’s trip – let’s dive in!
Where to stay?
Save:
We spent a night at a Monty Holiday Homes apartmentin Downtown Dubai; the very heart of the city. Just a minute’s walk from both the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall – these apartments work best if you’re looking to spend time shopping and dining out with your girlfriends.
We had a one-bedroom apartment which had a spacious lounge (perfect for our pre-flight evening of Netflix & Deliveroo!). Coming in and under £200 per night including taxes, these apartments work out as a luxe for less option and a great place to spend your time in Dubai!
Nikki Beach is an iconic global brand and the epitome of beach luxe – the perfect escape for you and your girls here in Dubai! The lively beach club offers cabanas, daily DJs and photo ops plenty – you can’t go wrong with this picturesque venue.
We’d recommend staying at Nikki Beach Dubaiif you’re looking to strike the balance between party and downtime as Nikki Beach does have it all, from the beach club to spa & beach cabanas/pool for when you’re looking to unwind.
Nikki Beach: if you’re spending the day at Nikki Beach Club, make sure you check out their restaurant – we were treated to the chef’s special sushi-sharing platter and this is a dish not to be missed if there’s a group of you! Some of the best sushi we’ve ever eaten and delicious Mocktails on offer too.
Graze restaurant, La Ville: we spent our first night in Dubai dining at Graze, a steakhouse restaurant located inside La Ville hotel on the City Walk. As someone who’s recently turned vegetarian, there were vegetarian options on the menu such as pasta, salads and fish dishes – if you’re a meat eater then you’re in for a treat as the restaurant specialises in meat dishes such as; Graze Burger, Mixed Meat board and Australian Wagyu.
This luxe casual dining space offers indoor/outdoor dining and an open kitchen so you can watch the chefs preparing your delicious meals!
DRIFT: During our day at DRIFT beach club we dined at their lunchtime restaurant; think fresh fish; warm salads & mezze boards – this place is well worth a visit if you’re at DRIFT for the day; you won’t be able to resist the restaurant’s innovative take on classic French cuisine!
Sal at the Burj Al Arab: We were fortunate enough to take a guided tour of the Burj Al Arab, after the tour ended we headed to Sal, a chic beachside restaurant overlooking the water. We enjoyed fresh Calamari, catch of the day Seabass and mocktails to die for – a hot spot for ladies looking to lunch!
AURA: our sunset session at AURA left us feeling peckish so we ordered some mezze boards to share such as burrata pizza, fries, burger sliders & some sundowner Mocktails!
What to do?
Check out Aura Skypool: one of our favourite things we did in Dubai was the AURA skypool – located in the St.Regis hotel on The Palm Jumeriahm and suspended 200 metres in the air; AURA is the world’s highest 360° infinity pool offering views across some of Dubai’s most iconic landscapes such as Palm Jumeriah, Burj Al Arab, the Dubai skyline & more!
We opted for the sunset session and it was magical watching the sunset across Dubai from the 360 wrap-around pool, accompanied by a live Sax player and sundowners – making this spot the perfect place to spend an afternoon in Dubai!
Prices start from 150AED for a lounge experience, 250AED for a pool experience and 280AED for a wellness experience. BOOK HERE (Bookings go quickly so be sure to book in advance to secure your slot at AURA)
Visit DRIFT beach club: beach clubs are HUGE in Dubai and we have to say, DRIFT was our favourite! Located in the One & Only Mirage hotel; DRIFT offers a laid-back luxe vibe where the music worked, the food was delicious and the vibes were high. We loved spending the day at a cabana and relaxing in the sun, swimming in the pool & enjoying Mocktails served by the friendly staff – DRIFT you won our votes immediately, a must-visit from us!
Take a guided tour of the Burj Al Arab: “Inside Burj Al Arab” is a guided tour running every 15 minutes daily, we were fortunate enough to join a tour and see a glimpse of the world’s only 7-star hotel (how cool?!). From the $25,000 per night Royal Suite to the 21,000 Swarovski Crystals around the hotel; this is one opulent hotel and a tour well worth taking!
Watch the Burj Khalifa Fountain & Light Show at night: The Burj Khalifa Fountain and Light Show runs every half hour from 6 pm, I caught the first show and it was beautiful – just as the sun was setting over the city watch the fountain & light show illuminate the sky. Well worth a visit if you’re staying Downtown / in the area!
Hit the shops at the Dubai Mall:The Dubai Mall is iconic and a must-visit (even if you’re not a shopper!), there’s lots to see including an Aquarium, underwater zoo & tonnes of dining options including the infamous Magnolia Bakery & Laduree for a sweet treat.
There we have it – our ultimate girls’ trip itinerary in Dubai, I hope this guide helps you map out your dream trip – enjoy!
*Laura and I flew business class with Etihad from London Heathrow to Abu Dhabi and had a wonderful, seamless journey. Book your flights with Etihad HERE.
If you’re seeking adventurous escapades in Dubai, check out our curated list of thrilling activities in this vibrant city. From dune bashing to skydiving, explore adrenaline-pumping experiences in Dubai on our blog post Adventurous Things to Do in Dubai!
Casa Angelina: Via Gennaro Capriglione, 147, 84010 Praiano
Nestled into the picturesque hillside of the Amalfi coast lies Casa Angelina, a white washed luxury hotel that boasts luxury, minimalistic design whilst encapsulating a “home from home” experience for guests.
From the warm welcome upon arrival, you’re greeted with fresh homemade lemonade and a smile, you’ll instantly relax into life here at Casa Angelina.
The location?
Located in the sleepy village of Praiano on the Amalfi Coast, you’re just a 10-minute ride away from the beautiful village of Positano (the hotel runs a free shuttle bus to and from Positano, making Casa Angelina the perfect spot to explore).
Other villages on the Amalfi Coast within easy reach (you can catch a local bus for just a couple of euro, or take a boat from Positano!), are; Amalif, Sorrento, Ravello or hop on a boat over to the majestic isle of Capri!
*The hotel overlooks Positano, which is magical for watching the sunrise or set of an evening!
The rooms?
You’ll find no shortage of luxury in the rooms at Casa Angelina, with Jo Malone and L’Occitane toiletries, Etro towels, Nespresso coffee machines, personalised welcome notes and Casa Angelina branded bags for you to use at the hotel.
Casa Angelina leaves no stone unturned when it comes to details, and this really shines through within the rooms. Your evening turndown service includes and eye mask, a luxury chocolate and a tube of L’Occitane hand cream.
I spent one night in a “Romantic Double Room” with front sea view and balcony, the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the Amalfi Coast!
The dining?
If you’re looking to dine at Casa Angelina, pick from either “Seascape” – the hotels casual all-day dining restuarant, or opt for the fine dining option at “Un Piano Nel Cielo” located on the fourth floor with beautiful views across the coast.
I dined at Seascape during my stay, I started with some warm Focaccia bread with oils, followed by a locally caught fish dish (delicious!), and ended with Pistachio & Hazlenut ice cream. The meal was absolutely incredible – and the best part? I enjoyed a date night for one, reading my book and watching the beautiful sunset over Positano – it really was a night to remember!
Enjoy breakfast on the fourth floor resturant, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the buffet, fresh juices, pastries, cooked meats, local yoghurts, fresh fruit and a menu to order a cooked item of your choice too – a wonderful spot to start your day before exploring.
Need to know?
There’s no shortage of things to do here at Casa Angelina! Whether you’re looking to hire a boat and explore the coast by sea (you can also hire a private chef for the day too), book a treatment at the hotels spa, unwind by the indoor or outdoor pool, workout in the gym, relax by the library, wander down to the beach club or check out Casa Angelina’s newly added garden (this is also the spot for morning Yoga / Pilates – stunning!).
I loved spending the night at Casa Angelina, a truly refined hotel in the heart of the Amalfi coast – making this hotel the perfect spot for exploring!
Situated against the white wash walls of the hotel, Casa Angelina offers an ecletic art collection, full of hand picked pieces from around the world!
Located in the very heart of Rome’s historical centre lies Rhinoceros Roma, an incredible artsy hotel established by Alda Fendi in 2018 and designed by world renowned French architect Jean Nouvel.
Here you’ll find luxury, but in a slightly unconventional way. A contemporary design infused with raw materials and a splash of Italian architecture leaves the senses pleasantly surprised for the outcome is truly a one of a kind masterpiece.
What will I find at Rhinoceros Roma?
Home to 25 unique apartments, Rhinoceros Roma offers something for everyone, from Superior Apartments to Suite Apartments. Each apartment uses a juxtaposition of materials including my favourite; the exposed concrete with remnants of Graffiti from a past life.
Where is the hotel?
Set in the Velabro district, the hotel is located at the foot of Palantine Hill next to the Roman Forum. Less than a 10 minute walk from The Colosseum, the historic centre of Rome starts just footsteps from the hotel.
Also within walking distance you’ll find Circus Maximus, Venice Square, The Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain, making Rhinoceros Roma the perfect hotel for exploring this ancient city.
Need to know?
Rhinoceros Roma also doubles up as an art gallery, currently showcasing an exhibition on the life and works of Pablo Picasso. Drawing in hundreds of visitors a week this gallery is a must if you’re in the area.
The place to relax
Located off the beaten track, Rhinoceros Roma is THE place for your next stay in Rome. The perfect spot to relax at the end of a day walking around The Eternal City, take a soak in the bath tub (the Himilayan bath salts were very kindly left in my bathroom along with a hand written note – a lovely touch after a long day), or cook yourself a meal in the fully equipped kitchen, this hotel really is the home away from home that you’ve been searching for!
Check out Rhinoceros Roma HERE, and book your stay HERE.
Where? Starhotels Terminus: Plaza Giuseppe Garibaldi, 91, 80142 Napoli
I rounded off my three week trip to Italy by spending two nights in Naples, I checked into the Starhotels Terminus – directly opposite the Napoli Centrale station, it was the perfect spot to jump off of the 9pm train, and check straight into!
Need to know?
Located on Piazza Garibaldi in the center of Naples, Starhotels Terminus offers 169 rooms and suites spread across 7 floors, the hotel immediately offers a warm and relaxing welcome the moment you step through the doors. Step off of the bustling hub of Napoli straight into the serentiy of the hotel!
Dining…
A complimentary breakfast buffet is served in the Odeon restaurant, here you’ll find a cooked breakfast, natural yoghurts, fresh pastries, fruit and delicious coffee – a great way to start your day in Naples.
A great base for exploring…
I booked Starhotels Terminus as it was a great base for exploring Naples, I booked onto a guided tour of Pompeii and Mount Versuvius, the tour actually picked us up from directly outside the hotel (handy!), then in the evening it was off to L’Antica Pizzeria de Michele to try out some of Napoli’s best pizza; Eat, Pray, Love style – delicious!
Extras?
The hotels 8 meeting rooms make this hotel a great spot for a business trip. Don’t forget to check out the Odeon Bar to experience a genuine Neapolitan coffee or panoramic terrace on the 7th floor, overlooking the Bay of Naples – the perfect spot to catch a magical Italian sunset!
Book your stay at the Starhotels Hotel Terminus HERE.
Nestled in the Italian countryside just 15 minutes outside of Florence ‘s city center lies Villa La Massa; built in the 13th century, this once private country house has since evolved into a luxury hotel.
Sitting on the banks of the picturesque Arno River, this stunning hotel has undergone a complete renovation, encapulating pure luxury, whilst still presenting it’s grandour and history. Set in a 25-acre park and surrounded by the Tuscan countryside, Villa La Massa is the perfect secluded spot to embrace peace and serentity away from the city center of Florence.
Arrival and check in:
I spent two wonderful days at Villa La Massa with my lovely Mum, we checked into one of the hotels 51 rooms and were greeted with a welcome card, fresh fruit and sparkling water – it was a lovely warm welcome!
We soon settled into our beautiful room, after spending several nights in the center of Florence; we were excited to unwind and absorb some peace in the tranquil surroundings of Villa La Massa.
Dining at Villa La Massa:
All of your dining needs will be met at the hotels on site restaurants so you won’t even need to think about leaving the properties secluded oasis.
From poolside lunching and casual dining at L’Oliveto, to breakfast served either in the rooms or at the hotels restaurant “Il Verrocchio”, you’ll find every need catered for.
Enjoy an early evening Aperitif at the hotels Medicean Bar, then follow up with a meal at Villa La Massa’s refined restuarant, Il Verrocchio; with it’s romantic terrace overlooking the Arno River.
We enjoyed our first meal at Il Verrocchio, home made pasta with fresh ingredients from the garden followed by a lamb and fish dish. The food was diving and the wine pairing was sublime. On our second day we enjoyed a poolside lunch at the hotels more informal restaurant; L’Oliveto for some more delicious food (and pasta!).
The Hotel:
Soak up the views of the Tuscan countryside whilst lounging by the pool, enjoy yoga lessons, the hotels Arno spa and on site gym – whether you’re looking to workout, relax or unwind – there is something for everyone at Villa La Massa.
Explore the hotels 25-acre plot and emmerse yourself in the gardens, play a game of tennis or take a bike and enjoy one of the cycling paths. Villa La Massa is the perfect spot to recharge.
Soak up some Italian sunshine and find a spot overlooking the Arno River for an aperitif!
Located in the heart of rural Staffordshire; The Tawny Hotel which opened in July 2021 has already earned itself the reputation as one of the hottest new hotels in the UK.
Set in over 70 acres, the hotel prides itself on being the first ‘deconstructed’ hotel in the UK, essentially merging all of the best bits of a hotel and rolling it into one fabulous destination. With five lakes, a recent spa partnership with Gaia Spa (located in the hotel’s thatched cottage) and luxurious accommodation from Hillside Treehouses to Cedar-clad Retreat Cabins – there’s something for everyone at The Tawny.
The Retreats
We spent two nights in The Tawny’s newest and most luxurious accommodation offering; The Retreat suites. Eight new Cedar-clad cabins launched in August this year, inside you’ll find a sunken bath tub, a super-king size bed, windows framing the breath-taking views and out on the terrace, an outdoor spa bath for wildlife watching and star gazing!
The decor in the Retreat suites was stunning, from wooden clad headboards, to subtle nature prints – it was the perfect way to capture the very essence of the property and really bring the outside in.
The Grounds
Pop on your wellies (the hotel has some if you forget to pack yours!), and explore the picturesque grounds of The Tawny – set in 70 acres it will set you back a few hours to explore by foot, the hotel also offers bikes if you’d prefer.
We were assured that most guests head to The Tawny to simply ‘do nothing’ (that was exactly our plan too!), but if you’re keen to explore then take a dip in the hotels heated outdoor pool, a guided yoga glass or pre order a picnic to enjoy in the grounds.
Oh, and keep an eye out for the hidden ping pong table for a quick game!
The Plumicorn
We dined at The Plumicorn resturant during our stay and enjoyed the most equisite meal, the menu is ever-changing based on the Chef’s passion for seasonal produce, I enjoyed the Duck and Ben ordered the Lobster – delicious!
We found ourselves back at The Plumicorn for breakfast before we hit the road onto the next leg of our road trip; so it was a latte and Pancakes with natural yoghurt and fresh berries to start the day right!
One-night stay at The Tawny starts from £230 in the Wildwood Huts, £360 in the Lookout, £400 in the Boathouses, £420 in the Treehouses and £560 in a Retreat, based on two sharing and inclusive of bed and breakfast.
The Lakes by Yoo: A luxurious chic retreat in the Heart of the Cotswolds
Situated in the heart of the Cotwolds lies The Lakes by Yoo; spread across 850-acres, the luxury estate offers both residential residences and second homes if you’re looking for a more permanent abode.
The Estate
At The Lakes by Yoo you’ll find freshwater lakes, meadows and woodlands to explore (you can explore by foot or by bikes if you prefer). Whether you’re looking to snuggle up by the fire with a good book and make the most of switching off, or if you’re a slightly more adventurous type then fear not as The Lakes offer water sports, workshops, fishing and outdoor activities.
If you’re looking to unwind during your stay then The Orchard Spa is for you, featuring a 17-metre swimming pool, gym, sauna and treatment rooms. Designed by award-winning architects, The Orchard Spa really does capture the very essence of nature and tranquility.
Lakeside Apartment
We had the pleasure of spending the last night of our road trip in a Lakeside Apartment at The Lakes by Yoo; these luxurious apartments boast 3 bedrooms, lakeside views from a private balcony, a large soaking bathtub, superking bed (two of the bedrooms offer twins which can be made up as a superking or two singles) and a fully equipped kitchen.
As there was only the two of us we had our choice of bedrooms; we opted for the bedroom with the lakeview as it was a magical view to wake up to!
Dinner at Elsa’s
Grab a bite to eat at Elsa’s; The Lakes casual dining offering complete with outdoor seating area, log fires and stunning views of the lake. The rustic yet luxe decor will have you feeling cosy and at home in no time, food is served by renowned chef Alex Nutt (we had the pleasure of dining with Alex and thoroughly enjoyed our evening & his wonderful company).
Expect to find a relaxed menu using local ingredients, delicious snacks, and a bar that satisfies both your wine and barista coffee needs.
To inquire about your stay at The Lakes by Yoo, visit
