Arabian adventure

Some of us seek high-octane thrills to escape from quotidian life and recharge. Others find restoration through spa-going and sleep. In the cosmopolitan Emirate of Abu Dhabi, with its fascinating heritage and endless desert, all of the above can be found.

Yas Island is home to the Grand Prix, Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World, while Saadiyat Island boasts a beach with a Hawksbill turtle hatching site, the region’s first ocean golf course, and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. For five-star R&R, retreat into an opulent world of landscaped gardens, domes, mosaic glass tiles, and a 1.3km private beach at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental.

Slip away to its award-winning spa – boasting a neroli-scented haven of dim lanterns and water features – that’s complete with a traditional hammam and ice cave. Ancient Eastern and indigenous Arabian healing traditions inspire signature therapies; the two-hour, four-handed Oriental Harmony massage promises to restore balance. For those who wish to be out and about, explore the amazing adventure pool, and play tennis, football or beach volleyball, followed, of course, by a first-class meal; taking time over nourishing food on holiday is an uplifting antidote to often-rushed bites at home.