La Mer

Sunset over La Mer

It is the UAE National Day long weekend and while many friends are out of town or on local staycations, given the five days of celebrations made possible by the 3 days of declared public holidays, we have elected for a quiet extended weekend at home with a little La Mer celebration.… Read the rest

China Grill

The outdoor terrace at China Grill

China Grill: Ladies’ Night in Dubai.  Something that can’t be fathomed anywhere else is alive and well right here.   When I first heard about ladies’ nights – which consist of anything from a free drink or two to all out free flowing bubbles and a 50% discount on food (for tables with ladies only), I thought it was a bit of a gimmick. … Read the rest

Danny Bhoy

Danny Bhoy, Dubai Opera

Tonight, and Danny Bhoy, is a little surprise, an early anniversary celebration. It’s not a big one – the anniversary of our first date – but we like to mark the occasion.  Except I couldn’t find anything on for that night, so tonight it is.… Read the rest

Al Hadheerah

The Emirati cuisine

“Alright” I think.  It’s been suggested that we do a girl’s night at Al Hadheerah restaurant.  I’ve been here once before for an anniversary six months ago.  It was an experience then, the desert location, the open air, tantalising buffet and restaurant sunken into the sand. … Read the rest

Zaya Nurai Island

Zaya Nurai Island

“Where are you going?  Who are you going with? What time will you be home?”.

“Umm, I’m not really sure” I respond.  I’m not trying to avoid the questions, I just don’t really have the answers.  I’ve been invited along on a boat rally. … Read the rest

JA Palm Tree Court

JA Palm Tree Court from Pool Side

JA Palm Tree Court is part of the Jebel Ali Resort, an oasis in the truest sense of the word.  Located in the southern region of Dubai, near the base of the undeveloped Palm Jebel Ali and next to the Jebel Ali Free Zone and port area, it’s a lush green space set on the coast between sand and sea. … Read the rest

Bateaux Dubai

Seating on board

We are only here by luck.  Our Bateaux Dubai cruise was an ‘extra’ on our resort weekend stay at the JA Palm Tree Court. We nearly decided to forego it, though thank goodness we didn’t!

Batteaux Dubai

Appearing as a bonus in the fine print, we have completely underestimated the value and enjoyment of this activity. … Read the rest

Spice Den

Sweet Potato Doughnuts

I wanted to visit Santai Retreat.  Jason wanted to go to Spice Den, a restaurant that had been recommended to him. Thankfully it turned out to be one and the same!  Spice Den at Santai Retreat near Kingscliff spruiks itself as ‘modern Thai fusion’ food. … Read the rest