Double Tree by Hilton, Al Marjan Island. We return. After visiting last September and quickly figuring out how to lose time doing very little and yet a lot, we return to Al Marjan Island for some R&R.
Setting out on our road trip I have work calls to attend so the screens are permitted in the back of the car. It’s all rather uneventful until we turn off towards the coast and come across some camels in the middle of the road. The curious creatures wander over to inspect the car before we are able to drive slowly by and continue on our way.
This time we have booked a room that opens out onto the beach. The boys lose no time heading to the Jungle Float and we kick back to relax and take it all in.
The past six months have been challenging and we are happy to lay back with nothing immediate on our minds. A couple of pool side piña coladas assist with the task of forgetting our problems and remembering to appreciate our world.
The sea is just as blue as I remember and my piña colada is just as enjoyable. The palm trees sway in the warm ocean breeze as I let it tickle my skin, closing my eyes against the daylight glare.
Fun
The remainder of the afternoon is heavily influenced by the appearance of a large inflatable fun park by the sea. The boys disappear, bouncing back every now and then for a sip of their drink, to find something (goggles, ball) or more likely to ask something…
I’d like to think that I might achieve something in the succeeding hours but my mind wanders its own course throughout the afternoon. This is so despite attempts with my notebook and reading book which sit beside me the whole time.
Of course it is a little hard to focus. The cool pool calls, the boys dip in and out, activities get underway. Children squeal from the inflatable play ground and the water slides. More activities ensue including a giant soccer dart ball which we have mixed success with.
Having a beach front apartment makes a big difference. Everything is on hand throughout the day and we can duck in and out of the room and get all those bits that usually require a trek back through the hotel. Sunscreen, water, goggles, etc all are retrieved with a casual efficiency.
Relaxation
Al Marjan Island really is set up for fun and relaxation. The boys are off for the afternoon. We occasionally see them running to and fro or find them on the slides or at the pool. Inevitably they have made some new friends and are off having fun.
Jason and I laze, chat and sip our drinks. More than anything I enjoy the quiet. A couple of walks along the beach help to clear my mind and I remember to breathe some deep, calming breaths.
The down time is good for us. I enjoy peaceful moments and I appreciate the art of doing nothing. It is, however, an art form and one that I am not particularly accomplished at. I usually prefer to be ‘doing’ something. Al Marjan Island reminds me that doing nothing can also be doing something. Especially if your mind and soul need a rest.
Good To Know
Al Marjan Island sits off the coast of the UAE in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. It is around an hour’s drive from Dubai.
We stayed at Double Tree Al Marjan Resort & Spa which offers:
- various outdoor pools
- indoor ladies pool
- sea pool
- Jungle Float
- children’s waterpark
- water activities (additional charge)
- playground
- stretching, dance & aqua aerobics
- day beds
- cabanas
- towels
- various pool side bars & dining
- kids’ club
- restaurants
Would I Return?
Yes.