Featured Ramadan promotions – Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi

EMBRACE THE SPIRIT OF RAMADAN WITH DUSIT THANI ABU DHABI

In celebration of the holy month of Ramadan, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi unveils authentic Iftar offerings, Sohour experiences and a soothing spa treatment.

In this serene time of tranquillity and reflection, Namm Spa offers a haven for relaxation and an opportunity to hydrate the skin from the heat this summer with a 30-minute Arabian Honey and Milk Bath for only AED300. The treatment combines fresh milk, geranium rose oil and natural honey. While the fresh milk gently exfoliates and moistures the skin, the natural honey will ease one’s worries away, hydrate and clean the skin making it soft and smooth.

For more information, please call +971 (2) 698 8300 or e-mail dtadspa@dusit.com.

Ramadan Special Arrangement & Decor I shot last year at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi

Urban Kitchen invites guests to break their fast with a selection of Iftar buffet offerings from around the world, including Middle Eastern favourites such as traditional Ouzi lamb, live shawarma and falafel stations and mixed grill. Turkish Executive Sous Chef Bulent Canbolat is also introducing traditional specialties from his home country including Imam Bayildi (stuffed eggplants), Begendili Kuzu Sarma (stuffed lamb chops with eggplant puree), Borek (baked filled pastries) and Testi Kabab (braised lamb shank dish).

Mahi Blog highly recommend their ramadan buffet for awsome kibbeh and falafel live stations.

Iftar buffet is available daily at Urban Kitchen during the holy month of Ramadan from sunset until 21:00hrs, and is priced at AED 185 (excluding municipality fees and service charge) per person including Ramadan juices, AED 75 (excluding municipality fees and service charge) for children between six and 12 and complimentary for children of five years of age and below. Guests who book groups between 10 and 25 persons will receive a 20% discount on their total bill.

Guests who wish to extend their Iftar experience with flavourful shishas can head to the Orchid Terrace equipped with air-coolers to keep guests feeling refreshed. An à la carte Sohour is offered daily from 19:30hrs till 1:00hrs.

Their wide-spread Salad counter is my fav of all-time

For groups larger than 100 persons, tailor-made packages are available for memorable Iftar and Sohour evenings under the majestic Skydome, the perfect location to celebrate Ramadan together with colleagues and friends. Menu prices starting from AED 235 include a lavish Iftar or Sohour buffet, complimentary Arabic coffee service, Ramadan theme and unlimited flow of Ramadan beverages. Guests who book their Ramadan event before June 15^th 2015 can avail a 10% discount for groups of 100 – 199 guests, 15% discount for groups of 200 – 299 guests and 20% discount for groups of 300+ guests.

You can read about my earlier experiences at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi in Ramadan here &

“Iftar Dine Out at Dusit”.

Mahi Blog will be attending their Exclusive Ramadan Preview next week hence will bring you more details soon. !

For more information or reservations, please email reservation.table@dusit.com; call +971 2 698 8888 or visit http://www.dusit.com/dtad

“Ramadan Kareem”

Here are more links for the reviews regarding the restaurant and F&B at tsame same property.

Bangkok Street Food Week & Celebration at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi

“Capital Grill Review and meeting with Sous Chef ”

 

Californian Review+WIN ‘Dusit Thani Dxb’ Dine-in Voucher for 2!

sincykumar

Californian Review+WIN ‘Dusit Thani Dxb’ Dine-in Voucher for 2!.

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WINNERS Announced: Holiday Inn AlBarsha Review & Giveaway, Indeed ‘’The 4Star Hotel with a 5Star Look’’

CONGRATULATIONS – And the 2 lucky Winners are

1- Karen Ajka

2- Mehwish Fatima

Please email your full name, contact details from the email ID by which you are subscribed on the Blog to mahiblog.ae@gmail.com to collect your voucher latest by Saturday June 6th, 2015.

*Incase you fail to provide same id / not registered via that email id you will be disqualified and another winner will be chosen.

——————————————————————————————

I was so enthused with the weekend stay at Holiday Inn AlBarsha that I have decided to blog to highlight my experience.

After I tell you about my familiarity of the recent stay, I would like to test my readership with a quiz, that will enable the readers / followers to win a meal voucher from HIAB at The Royal Budha (Dim Sum for 2) & Gharana (Street Food Night for 2).

 

Located in the pivot of Dubai, Holiday Inn Dubai – Al Barsha is a perfect fuse of fashionable design and archetypal grace. Hotel is equipped with the latest facilities, discerningly festooned to congregate each guest’s requests and ease, it has 309 rooms including 54 suites. It is also 5-minute walk from the Ski Dubai Resort. Dubai Media & Internet City, the Jebel Ali Free Zone and Knowledge Village are also nearby. Al Barsha is a great choice for travelers interested in Shopping, Clothes Shopping and Luxury Brand Shopping.

 

Arrival:

We arrived at this hotel at 6.00 pm, after a long drive from Abu Dhabi. On arrival, we were warmly greeted by every one of the hotel staff and when we checked in, we were been asked to sit and rest in lobby which was much appreciated. My family and I stayed in this wonderful hotel for 2 nights in a 2 Bed Room Suite. Check in was prompt. The suite was spacious for our family of 2 adults and 2 kids. The bathrooms were also clean and also prepared with all essential toiletries.

Hotel Staff & Management:

The most laudable factor during our stay was the staff of the hotel. From the moment we entered the hotel until we leave, staff are very convivial. They always genuinely greet you with your name and carry a smile. I must praise them for particular attention to the kids especially at concierge being so courteous and bell boy being so attentive and telling us bits about the direction and quick access to the lift area and other amenities.

This is the first time we stayed in any IHG hotel and we’ve started to love it from here, stay which offers you great comfort in reasonable price, it is not so cheap yet not very expensive. Shopping can be done close to the hotel with Mall of the Emirates within few kilometers only, I personally loved the accessibility of the Metro Stations.

Room & Hotel Amenities:

Our room (Suite) was at the rear and was very spacious and calm, the view was not of Sheikh Zayed Road, but it’s still very bright. In-room amenities include Iron and Stand, Hair dryer making your life even more at ease. Bathrooms were small but well fitted with bathtub and shower for your convenience. Bed furnishings, curtains and carpeting is well sanitized and were smelling great adding to the room’s placate. The lobby and floor passages in the Hotel always smell so great and this is one thing I loved about the hotel (they must be having efficient House-keeping staff).

We were even happier to see a Writing desk, and a small in wall rack giving a counter kitchenette look-alike area next to the mini bar compartments. It was much convenient for kids to finish their coloring and assembling book activity from the “KIDs Welcome Pack” which they were joyfully offered at our check-in and was actually been topped-up by rewards in form on cookies when they showed finish version to concierge desk! What a lovely surprise for kids I must say and really kept them busy and give us some time to freshen up while they were busy finishing it up while we got ready for the dinner at The Gem Garden . Internet access is available for guests’ convenience. Internet connectivity comes with each guestroom as an additional convenience. Room service was swift, they supplied bottled water each day and room cleaning staffs were excellent.

The most interesting part is although the hotel is located on a very busy street, and also during the Stay some mega hosted event was going-on at the venue however we were not affected by any noise or interruption and distracted services.

Parking is available at this hotel for guests arriving in cars. Sharaf DG Station is the closest metro station to the hotel for easy access around the area. Dubai International Airport is also not far away. You can certainly stay fit at the hotel’s fitness centre well stocked with all the required equipments. If you want to use their beauty salon and massages, you should book them in advance and they cost extra. Although it has 4 stars, but can expect all kind of extravagant overhaul offered.

Pool & Terrace:

Kids have enjoyed in their pool.

Night view of the Rooftop Pool.

We used the impressive pool area on the roof  having two pools (adult/kids pool), though it’s small though but enough sun beds, and also gives you splendid views over Burj Al Arab. If it’s not dusty weather you can even see Burj Khalifa and hotel Atlantis from hotel’s rooftop terrace while enjoying shisha.

Food:

Completing the Holiday Inn experience are award winning outlets The Royal Budha (Thai), Gharana (Indian), The Gem Garden (All Day Dining) , The Q (Sports Bar), Lounge@Barsha (Coffee Shop) , The Q Underground (Retro Venue), Dolphin Bar (Rooftop Bar) and Xennya Terrace as well as banquet facilities and immaculate service.

Live Entertainment at their famous Gharana Restaurant

 

The breakfast was included in package & Dinner buffet we had at The Gem Garden it was indeed above average with a wide selection of dishes to choose having a combination of generous buffets and classic a la carte dishes including a live station for eggs and omelettes in buffet, must to appraise in such set-up. It is basically all-day dining with a difference, I adore their minimalist Zen styling making it ideal place any time of day or night.

 

I really enjoyed my Ala carte menu orders there too, Jumbo Prawns and sea-chowder soup being my favorite. Kids had enjoyed their custom ordered pasta and shakes and fresh juices.

  

The Dim-Sum Fridays at the “Royal Budha” is very scrumptious Thai variation and I must say indeed a different and great experience as well. Award winning creative cuisine is delivered in a stylish setting under the watchful eye of a towering Buddha makes this a royal treat. Situated on the ground floor, this contemporary Thai restaurant is the perfect blend of tradition and innovation.

 

We enjoyed a mix-platter starter with various items and variety of dim-sum in their homemade sauces. Their flavored and Chamomile tea is also an interesting factor to finish off the meal but the highlight of  the menu was desert Fried Banana with Ice-cream.

  

Another Plus:

The hotel offers a free shuttle twice a day to Kite beach, including pickup., and guess what you can carry along with you Picnic pack (Inform them before in time and they shall keep it ready for you in minimal rates).

We also take a quick tour to The Club Lounge, dedicated exclusively for Club Floor guests with private check-in and check-out services will be opening soon. Business houses have access to a wide variety of conference venues equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

All in all it was a great experience in a Stylish Hotel which is well-equipped with the most up-to-date amenities and is decked in good taste. The room rates are good and I would recommend. Completing the full experience are 3 fabulous dining outlets and buzzing bars, outstanding banqueting facilities and impeccable 5-Star service accorded at 4-Star prices.

Ideally Located on Sheikh Zayed Road next to Mall of the Emirates and Ski Dubai, the hotel is in close proximity to Dubai’s most prominent Business Districts and other leisure venues. I will definitely come back at the Holiday Inn Albarsha as its ideal #staycation spot and would also recommend this hotel to anyone going to Dubai for business or Leisure I am heading back there very soon.

Check their Stay Together Package, it’s ideal for Summer Holidays !!

Awards and Decorations:

• Best Waste Management Practices – 4 Star Category – Dubai Green Tourism Awards  2014, Winner:HIAB
• Favourite Thai Restaurant below Dhs400 category – What’s On Awards, 2014 : Winner The Royal Budha
• Best 4Star Business/Corporate, Silver Award: MENA Travel Awards 2012,  2013 and 2014
• Silver Best Fine Dining Restaurant– MENA Awards, 2013 : The Royal Budha
• Time- Out Top Ten Restaurant, 2012, South Asian Category: The Royal Budha
• Top three nominated Best Asian Restaurant – Masala Awards , 2012: Gharana
• Best Decorated 4Star Hotel in the UAE: “Spirit of the Nation”, 2011
• Quality Excellence Award:IHG EMEA 2010

Ramadan June Offers  2015

The Gem Garden

Daily: Iftar Buffet

• Event : Iftar Buffet
• Brief Description : An extensive Oriental & Continental Buffet with live cooking station
• Time : Sunset  to  10pm
• Price : AED 109/- per person with special Ramadan beverages

Daily: Sohour set menu

• Event                 : Sohour Set Menu
• Brief description : Oriental set menu
• Time : 12 midnight to 4am
• Price : AED 75/- per person
• Venue              : The Gem Garden & Room service,  Lobby level

The Royal Budha

Daily: Dish of the week prepared by Chef Sanya who will be very pleased to prepare your favorites dishes too or you can simply take his recommendations from the A la carte menu.

Every Friday

• Event : Dim Sum on Friday’s
• Brief Description : Homemade Dim Sum served fresh from the trolley
• Time : 12pm to 12midnight
• Price : AED 78/- per person (all you can eat Dim Sum with                                                                                       unlimited specialty tea.)                           

Gharana (No Live Entertainment during Ramadan)

Daily    :  talented Chef will be very pleased to prepare your favorite dishes.

Every Saturday

• Event : Street Food Night
• Brief Description : The finest pick of Indian street eats
• Time : From sunset
• Price : AED 95/- per person

Outdoor Catering

Specialized Catering

They undertake catering on any scale, corporate clients, high-end house parties, get togethers, weddings and concerts etc, An experienced team who carries valid occupational health cards, basic food hygiene certificate and trained on HACCP standards.Offer multi cuisines to suit all requirements be it Indian, Thai, Arabic, Italian, Mexican, Spanish etc and the option of a customized menu

Functions & Events Catering

You need a buffet for your monthly meeting, get together, product launch? Require catering services for an educational institution? Daily meal/meals to your staff at the office? Require a hassle free birthday party at your house? Invited friends and families and need to offer them their favorite dishes? Holiday Inn AlBarsha’s Outdoor Catering will take care of your catering requirements

• Price: As per menu selected
• Time: 24 hours

Overall Rating by Mahi Blog to HIAB : 4 out of 5

For more Information regarding Holiday Inn AlBarsha: www.hialbarshadubai.com

Tel: +971 4 3234333 www.facebook.com/hidubai

GIVEAWAY / COMPETITION:

Mahi Blog and Holiday Inn – Al Barsha have teamed up to offer Mahi Blog readers 2 vouchers for Dine-In at Hotel in the award winning restaurants The Royal Budha (Dim Sum for 2) & Gharana (Street Food Night for 2).

How to win: 

For your chance to win simply do the following:

1- Answer the following question in comments; What is the tagline of Holiday Inn AlBarsha Hotel?

2- Subscribe (via email id) on this Blog, Share this post on as many social widgets AND tag along ur friends. (Use buttons below of FB, Twitter, IG etc)

3- Like, Follow, Share us on following:

• Facebook (facebook.com/mahiblog)
• Twitter (twitter.com/mahiblog)
• Instagram (instagram.com/mahiblog)

To win you must do all the above steps. Winners will be announced on MAY 31st, 2015. The more you share this post & Mahi Blog on social widgets, better the chance to win! All UAE fans can take part.

Scrumptiously yours,

Mahi.

Disclaimer & Notes: A huge Thank you to those who made this trip extra special: HIAB &Staff , very elegant Roxana Jaffer, CEO of Holiday Inn Dubai – Al Barsha, Ever smiling & humble Kezia Da Rocha, Director of Marketing & Quality Assurance, F&B team at the property and of course Kaby Klick.

We were guests at HIAB but it did not influence our thoughts and reviews,  all opinions are our own. You can not use any pics without prior permission.

 

Featured: Ramadan Tent / Mega Contest teaser @ Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa

It’s great to hear about Ramadan Tent – The Biggest Ramadan Tent in Ras Al Khaimah.

We are looking forward to explore it in the special month of Ramadan.

Important Info:

Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa.

Ø  Opening Hours from 6:30 pm to 3:00 am From 17th June – 18th July, 2015

Ø  Total capacity 250 pax / 500 square meters (able to extend to 400 pax using two restaurants located in the same are in case of big group event)

Ø  Ramadan buffet every day from 6:30 to 9:00 pm @ AED 130 + 10% SC including water & Ramadan Drinks

Ø  Snack & Suhour menu every day from 9:00 pm to 3:00 am

Ø  Live dessert station every day from 6:30 to 2:00 am

Ø  Suhour Tray every day from 10:00 pm to 3:00 am @ AED 95 + 10% SC

Ø  Hot & Cold beverage list available every day from 6:30 pm to 3:00 am @ average rate of AED 21

Ø  Shisha inside the tent every day from 6:30 pm to 3:00 am @ AED 35 net

Ø  Entertainment live Oad traditional music performer every day from 9:00 pm to 11:45 pm

For more details or to book a table feel free to call 07 22 888 44

Keep an eye on Mahi Blog as we are bringing very soon a mega contest courtesy Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort &Spa. If you wish to have double entry in the Hotel Stay contest share the post and stay tuned !

 

CITY WALK – Guylian Chocolates R Here! – Rich in Creativity, Style & Cocoa butter!

 

 

 We were invited at the launch event of Guylian Belgian Chocolate Café, at YAS mall (Yas Island) – AbuDhabi. In it’s Unique Sea shell creativity, this Chocolate Café offers Original Belgian Chocolate Sea Shells which are sure to deliver you the ultimate chocolate experience. It is so rich and creamy from outside and have this oh-so-yummy  famous Guylian hazelnut flavor.

 

The open-air cafe location was classy, and the evening was startling with Chocolate truffles, desserts, snacks and coffee served in a modern Art Deco setting, we surely had enjoyed the beautiful array of delights and pander to our passion for the premium Belgian chocolates, exquisite cakes and decadent desserts.

 

 

While the cafe focused on Guylian’s signature chocolate that made them a recognized global brand, the eatery also sell sandwiches, pastries, coffee, cakes and more. I simply loved the fact how soft and creamy these chocolates are, they simply melts in your mouth simultaneously giving you this delectable taste of signature hazelnut praliné filling with in.

     

We had a privilege of greeting the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the UAE and a meeting and interview with an Ever-smiling Mieke Callebaut, Marketing & Sales Director Europe/USA of the brand Guylian. She has briefed us about the origin of the World’s Favorite Belgian Sea Shells, of how the Chocolatier Guy Foubert become the first to come up with the idea of making chocolates in this shape, while returning home, thinking of bringing gifts to friends and family and passing along the coastline and getting his inspiration from the seashells.

 

A Story of Love and Chocolate:

She also narrates how the whole journey of Guylian begans, “Guylian”, the romantic combination of the founders’ names, the Belgian couple Guy and Liliane. Guylian was started in 1958 by a Guy Foubert, a Belgian chocolatier who specialised in artisanal handmade chocolate truffles. The chocolates are now sold in more than 120 destinations around the world, but the company’s signature truffle recipe is still made in small-batch copper kettles exclusively by Guylian’s master chocolatiers in Sint-Niklaas, Belgium. The chocolates are available in hypermarkets, department stores and duty-free shops at major airports around the world.

Inspiration for Outlet in UAE:

It lovely to know the similarities and fondness Brand Owners find in the culture of UAE, they love the culture and tradition of giving and sharing in this region which inspires them to have Guylian Belgian Chocolate Café established here and the products be part on national and traditional festivities, Giveaways and Warm Gifts giving activities which is a part of our rich culture in UAE.

Some interesting fact:

• Every Sea Shell is marked with a Guylian “G” stamp, the sign of a genuine Guylian chocolate & a mark of an artist.

• The shape of the Guylian chocolate seahorse is distinctive. It has its tail coiling the other way around than seahorses in life.

• They serve a gourmet range too.

 

It is an exclusive and classy location at Luxury Court on the ground level in Yas Mall. to indulge in all the luscious Guylian pleasures. it’s open from Saturday to Wednesday: 10:00am – 10:00pm and Thursday to Friday until midnight.

All in all it was a great event, very well coordinated and organized by TohPR, with goody bags and unlimited flow of Guylian famous chocolates and Canapés, we surely had some coddle chocolate moments there! We are going back there very soon 😉

 

Images Courtesy: Kaby Klick

 

Californian Review+WIN ‘Dusit Thani Dxb’ Dine-in Voucher for 2!

And the Winner is “Arti Bhatia”

Please email your full name, contact details to mahiblog.ae@gmail.com to clolletc your voucher.

Recently we Dine in style and enjoy sensational views of Burj Khalifa over an international buffet restaurant, It’s in Dusit Thani Dubai, the hotel is an exciting and exclusive addition to a sophisticated global group. For over 25 years, Dusit Thani hotels have offered travelers exceptional luxury and classic Thai elegance and refinement in a number of exotic locations around the world.

We have been invited to enjoy Tandoori Night at “The Californian”, which is available every Sunday Night. The restaurant plays host to tantalising dishes from across the globe with its theme nights which change from day to day to offer diners an endless amount of choice, satisfying any taste. The relaxed space offers stunning views of the tallest structure of the world and downtown Dubai, making it the perfect place for a relaxed breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Some of the highlights of the themed night dinner were:

1. Pani Puri & prawn curry
2. Tandoori station with delicious kebabs
3. Rasmalai (dessert)

We loved the view on Sheikh Zayed Road but that won’t be enough alone to send us back to the place so let’s talk about the main thing i-e FOOD. The menu selection was not scarce & their BBQ items and Tandoori Chicken is unbeatable very tender and juicy at the same time rich in taste. They offer much oriental fare. I must commend on their kindliness & courtesy of the staff however they need some refit in ambiance and lighting through the restaurant.

I was actually confused on what to eat all items look so tempting, with in the capacity of the same buffet I loved the selection of the salads, and my favourite was mushroom and potato cold salad. The waiter introduced himself and took the order for our drinks and special starters – yummy pani puri. While we were scanning the buffet area, the Executive Chef Tissa Kuragodage described to us some of the mains on the buffet. Californian has a simple menu but simultaneously caters to different tastes. Chef Tissa has indeed brought a lot of variety and fusion to the menu at the same time. We chat long about his expertise and journey in the region and the kitchen challenges of day-to-day allocation. He has been so gracious in his gestures and serving both, we heard some great stories of his kitchen pickets and guards, it was indeed a lovely afternoon very well hosted that we dint feel our 3 hours there.

Each of the mains and desserts were tasty and delicious, and also replenished swiftly by the chef at live counters. The only thing I wasn’t satisfies was the light at night time, I am sure it must have been great natural light in the day time which might have been enough to brighten the area however there is nothing to complain about the food, we liked it alot.

 

Astounding views of the surrounding area made our dinner even more interesting at this novel vantage point. I can’t wait to explore more if the other restaurant’s offerings are relatively this adventurous in Dusit Thani; this all in one buffet is a reasonably-priced desi menu with some interesting Chat/Pani Puri Trolley alongside the spreaded menu items. There Tandoori items are indeed much to stand out about the Californian.

If you’re in the market for fuss-free, frill-free lunch/dinner and a reasonable buffet deal, you could give this a try and will not be disappointed. You may also enjoy their Mexican night on Monday (Being famous for Quesadilla) & New Orleans on Tuesdays. (Must try their Chicken Jambalaya)

Hours:

Buffet Breakfast: Daily; 6:30 – 10:30 except on Fridays until 11:00

Buffet Lunch: Saturdays to Thursdays; 12:00 – 15:00

Buffet Dinner: Sundays to Fridays; 19:00 – 22:30 except on Thursdays until 23:30 ; Closed on Saturdays

Friday Brunch: 12:30 – 16:00

To find more info about the restaurant you can go to Dusit Thani Dubai website here, or “The Californian” FB page.

MEGA GIVEAWAY / COMPETITION:

They offered Mahi Blog Readers more reason to enjoy, hence in collaboration we are having a #giveaway of #TheCalifornian Retsaurant dining voucher (valid for 2 persons) for Tandoori themed Buffet at Dusit Thani Dubai Hotel.

How to win:

1- Subscribe (via email id) on wordpress.com

2- Must SHARE this post on as many social widgets AND tag along ur friends. (Use buttons below of FB, Twitter, IG etc)

3- Like, Follow, Share us on following:

Facebook (facebook.com/mahiblog)

Twitter (twitter.com/mahiblog)

Instagram (instagram.com/mahiblog).

To win you must do all the above steps. Winners will be announced on MAY 21st, 2015.The more you share this post & Mahi Blog on social widgets, better the chance to win! All UAE fans can take part.

Scrumptiously yours,

Mahi.

Disclaimer & Notes: A huge Thank you to those who made this trip extra special: Dusit Thani Dubai, Danelle Ruth, Chef Tissa, F&B team at the property & Kaby Klick. We were guests at the venue but it did not influence our thoughts and reviews and all opinions are our own.

P.s. You cannot use any images from Article without prior permission.

 

Winners Announced: Novotel Fujairah Hotel Reviewed – Mega Contest (Hotel Stay & Dine-in Vouchers worth upto 1100 dhs)

Congratulations:

And the winner for “Novotel Fujairah – HOTEL STAY” for One Night for 2 (Including Breakfast) Voucher is:

1. SOBIA SAAD

And the 3 winners for Dine-In Vouchers for FRIDAY BRUNCH for 2 at “IL Centro – IBIS/Novotel Fujaira” are:

1. LOIS VILLANUEVA
2. NISHA SANGEETH
3. ISMAIL YOUNUS VALLEYBHAI

Please send us your full name and contact details on mahiblog.ae@gmail.com within 2 days (latest by 19/5/2015) or else another winner will be selected.

 

GEM IN FUJAIRAH:

It was actually a brilliant decision to go outside city for a small weekend break. I love Fujairah, it has its coastline at the Gulf of Oman, we travelled long way from Abu Dhabi for a long break overdue. We were not extremely happy about our last Hotel Stay in same emirate but this time we were not disappointed at all.

The recent property we decided to visit and stayed for 2 days had surely changed all those cliché’s about standard differences in hotels in this part of region. It is very enduring and the most happening place where you get to have the best rooms & pool parties which can be any weekender’s ideal spot and is exactly what we needed for a break – Novotel Fujairah explored!

Location:

Novotel Fujairah is located in the heart of Fujairah City minutes away from Fujairah city centre mall and within the business and commercial district of Fujairah. You simply can’t miss the sight of it’s state-of-art structured building standing tall alongside it’s other properties IBIS & Adagio, if arriving in late evening you can’t miss those Blue lines and Novotel logo on the hotel building. It is not at all far from the areas main attractions, like Malls, City sightings, Restaurants etc.

Amenities & Décor:

The hotel offers 182 stylish rooms with free WiFi (Personal and password protected and I must say it was fast enough to cater our needs of tech-savvy family and travelling Gadgets clad) and satellite TV. The hotel has restaurants, bar, coffee & Sports lounge and free indoor parking. Guests also enjoy the use of the gym, swimming pool and pool bar. There are 6 fully equipped meeting rooms and Dibba ballroom which can host up to 1000 guest and is a very happening place over the weekend sporting no. of Fashion and Cultural events by royalties.

Hotel décor for the rooms for simple yet beautiful with a theme of blue and grey. However the wall hangings were of different themes and each has it’s unique appeal; each room has basic facilities, Our suite room was so big with an extra guest room having sofa set, although there is a separate extra single bed in room but they provided extra bed for my kids, the space was not at all congested. Bathrooms were big enough and even had a separate shower and bathtub which we really liked as I have put both my kids in shower and it saves time in them getting ready for lunch. (As a matter of fact their long bubble shower session dint bother me at all while being out on travel too 😉

Arrival & Liaison:

There was a lot of pre and post arrival communication involved and its fair to say both parties were as excited to meet. We were engage with them through social media and stay was meant to happen for a long time now. Hotel Check-in was prompt and efficient.

Hotel Staff Courtesy:

I can totally feel the positive sense of involvement and great hospitality display of the staff to us from the moment we arrived and entered the lobby for check-in till our departure, all the staff were much knowledgeable about each info and paying special attention to us and hotel’s other guests.

Family –Friendly & Interactive:

I must say the Hotel Staff were too sweet to remember you by names even of Kid’s while they will actually assist them in interactive giant game touch pad available in lobby. I love the kids corner situated in lobby just adjacent to the coffee shop with a connected chamber which is a part of coffee shop where parents can enjoy coffee evening while kids are enjoy playing games gadget and interactive toys in kids area.

Our welcome treat was well-presented however I like sweet over savory items more. Some mixed nuts were missing.

WOW Factor:

Novotel offered us as a special guest a customized City Tour where we took away more moments from natural & Close-to-heart Emirate. It was indeed a great Trip to Beach and mesmerizing Al-Bidyah Mosque (Click here to see) and was even great to get the car stop so close to destinations then just Hop in and Out! After returning back to hotel we were too lazy and spent most of the time by drum roll please! The pool.

It’s 1 now !

We very so privileged to be invited for the 1^st Anniversary Bash / Pool Party and celebration for the Hotel, compare to how new it is we were indeed impressed by its warm and cordial services. There was a massive display cake of Novotel Fujairah Hotel replica floating on the pool, Cake-cutting ceremony was attended by the Exclusive Guests, Staff & Hotel Guests. We have spent late night in celebration activities, kids enjoyed with balloons and games hence late we went back to room to catch some sleep, and had to cut short our sleep as we had to be ready for tour by 10:00 am, which means a single digit sleep but it’s totally worth it as we have seen some great stunning natural views.

Compare to other 4-star Hotels you will find Novotel Pool very BIG, enough so to accommodate its guest families staying, It is indeed a sudden surprise and plus point for NOVOTEL Fujairah. Their pool is temperature –controlled however don’t plan for pool access on a sandy day, as it won’t bring you much amusement due to strong winds and unmanageable big and open area.

Food:

Il Centro is dining spot at their sister restaurant where we had our Brunch and also enjoyed Mexican theme night, If Fujairah is your destination for any early plan or meeting and you are passing by this area brunch at this location totally worth it in this value as they even allocate Live counters and are serving in good capacity, however highlight was their restaurant

Flavours We had taken our Breakfast in Flavours restaurant, which is full of variety and caters to the need of mixed guests, all the items are so fresh, ample amount light coming through giant glasses will actually make an amazing bright ambiance, we also enjoyed a theme night Taste of India dinner in same restaurant, which is yet so authentic with rich Indian flavored cuisine and not pricey a lot. Indian sweets counter was to drool for while Korma and butter chicken were also highlights, their BBQ items can be altered in spice level if you or children in family wish to have less spicy. Tender chicken tikka pieces were so delicious.

Their brunch is at AED 90 only, while themed Mexican & Indian Night are priced at AED 100.

My Take:

Fujairah has been very Kind for us (Except with few bad drivers) and we shall be coming back for more for sure!. The trip to Novotel was full of activities, fun and tranquility at the same time, we had a perfect gateway so did our kids in a spacious area, I would highly recommend this destination:

• Spacious – Good for Small or large family
• Economical-Don’t be daunted by the word “Suite” they offer budgeted occupancy, ensures same facilities of Big Cities Hotel.
• Scenic Beauty: It will change your scenery view of City high rise building and brings you closer to nature.
• Excellent Customer services and moderate food options. All in all best Family Friendly destination.

The only thing I miss over this trip was an open beach however it’s not too far and as we took kids to nearby City Mall, huge display of Live Animals really kept their interest, it’s quite happening place over the weekends I told ya.

Facts:

Tourism in Fujairah In total Fujairah has 18 hotels and 2671 hotel rooms. 870 379 guests have stayed in Fujairah in 2014, for over 2 million nights in total (2050093 hotel nights). The numbers are increasing in the Emirate of Fujairah every year and new international hotels are due to open in 2015-2017

Novotel, Ibis and Adagio Fujairah are the first Accor brand properties to open in the Emirate of Fujairah. The complex opened in the first quarter of 2014.

Novotel Fujairah has 182 rooms, Ibis Fujairah has 180 rooms, Adagio Fujairah has 72 rooms. In total, three properties have 432 rooms.

Guest can choose amongst 7 dining outlets, relax at the open-air swimming Pool or work out in the fully equipped gym. The prices are less than one could expect in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, offering the same standards and facilities of an international brand.

For more information go to their website www.novotel.com, Fb, INSTAGRAM

MEGA GIVEAWAY / COMPETITION:

Guess what!!! they were so generous to offer Mahi Blog Readers more reason to smile, hence in collaboration we are having a #giveaway of #NovotelFujairah 1 Hotel Stay & 3 dining vouchers (each valid for 2 persons) total worth upto 1100 dhs.

How to win:

1- Subscribe (via email id) on wordpress.com

2- Must SHARE this post on as many social widgets AND tag along ur friends. (Use buttons below of FB, Twitter, IG etc)

3- Like, Follow, Share us on following: 

• Facebook (facebook.com/mahiblog)
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To win you must do all the above steps. Winners will be announced on MAY 14th, 2015.The more you share this post & Mahi Blog on social widgets, better the chance to win! All UAE fans can take part.

Scrumptiously yours,

Mahi.

Disclaimer & Notes: A huge Thank you to those who made this trip extra special: Novotel Fujairah, Jurgita, F&B team at the property, Kaby & Mishwish. We were guests at Novotel Hotel Fujairah but it did not influence our thoughts and reviews and all opinions are our own. You can not use any pics without prior permission.

 

Visit to Fujeirah – Al-Bidya Mosque explored.

Majestic Oldest Mosque

Uniquely Built Architectural lines

WE EXPLORE – Al Bidyah (Aka Al Bidiyah or Al Badiyah)

Novotel Hotel was our chosen destination for a break excursion trip outside the congested city life. It is indeed the budget and family friendly spot in Fujairah where we spent our memorable getaway. They offers us a tour to Fujairah’s famous & historic spots.

Scenic Beauty and amazing weather of Fujeirah !

Landscape Mountains and their Magical shades

Our driver cum tour guide Binil was so interactive and informative we headed for City tour after breakfast and went straight to Al Bidyah Mosque. It was a stretched drive from hotel but the view through the windows alongside the steep roads has incredible vista you won’t see much often, those dramatic upto 6 shades scenery of gigantic mountains and rocky hills (Just like how we draw on paper one over other), UAE Flags and heart shape paintings spotted by 2 little humans in our car and stop by for KARAK CHAI in roadside market kept us so busy that we dint feel the way. Our first stop over was an old town.

Mosque Interior

FUJEIRAH BEAUTY

Entrance to Oldest Fort

Another beautiful Mosque in Emirate

we enjoyed Blue sky with amazing cloud compilation that day

HISTORY:

The petite fishing township of Badiyah (also spelt Bidyah and Bidiya), few kms north of Khor Fakkan but in the Fujairah emirate, is one of the oldest villages in the Gulf. Al Bidyah Mosque is located there and thought to be as early as 1446 AD. The mosque is named after this town and it is also known as the Ottoman, after the name of personality who built it.

Al-Bidya Mosque

Beautiful scenery of Fujeirah

CONSTRUCTION & CULTURAL VALUE:

Archaeological digs show that this town has been settled continuously since the 3rd millennium BC. Today, it is notorious primarily for AlBidyah mosque , a charming sand-colored formation of boulder, stone, mire, mud brick and minerals built before1668, it is unique structure in UAE due to it’s engineering features. The building’s crown, with its four pointed domes supported by an internal pillar, is particularly idiosyncratic and its plain and minimal interior has an attractive reflective sense & deep rooted-cultured sagacity.

Scribbling their names on the wall ! A set tradition by visitors. 🙂

Paying gratitude to the historic and religious icon while interaction with very kind IMAM-E-MASJID.

Can you spot my name ! Wisam 🙂

Posing at the highest point in Al-Bidya region.

HERITAGE MONUMENT & GALLANT:

Considered as the the oldest worship place in the UAE, it now functions chiefly as a tourist attraction. Non-Muslims may enter if they are suitably clad and have taken off their shoes, but women must cover their heads & shoulders. The mosque is built over a stumpy hillside along the main road just north of the town or Fujairah before you get to Al Aqqah hotels and beach resort.

Loved the variety of Cactus we saw in Budya surroundings.

Historical icons

On our way up to Tower/ fort.

Aerial View from another QILLA

We had  some time hence decided to see the castle above the mosque. This is an important archaeological site in the UAE. When you live in hustle bustle of the cuities you don’t get these natural sites of mountain and huge palm trees and sandy castle. Hence Fujairah cast its own charm, while I visited this mosque a year back I couldn’t go up in the castles however this time my mini companions, Misha & Wisam have actually made the journey so adventurous and fun filled that inspite of struggle climbing to make it to two fort/castles standing behind the mosque, I dint feel much of energy lost.

The view from the top chamber of the “Qilla” is so unique though there is not much history of that era but long-lived local people mentioned that these castles are been built to keep a watch on the movements of opponent’s army while a battle has been fought here. You can view some glorious view of wide spread trees and desert along with the coast line.

Famous well of Bidya Mosque