Atlantis the Palm is a landmark in Dubai with its asymmetric shape rising out of the sea like… well… the lost world of Atlantis. See what I did there? Get ready to embrace your inner mermaid and dive into this zany celebration of all things underwater.
Noteworthy: This resort is more like a small city within a city. At any time of day, there are hordes of people flitting from restaurant to the beach and from the aquarium to the waterpark. We know what you’re thinking… how to stand out in the crowd? Go for the 3 C’s: colour, comfort and class.
The Welcome
Right in the centre of the massi ve lobby is a massive blue, glass sculpture by American artist Dale Chihuly that took two years to construct. Over 3000 glass-blown pieces were daintily shipped in individual containers from Seattle to Dubai for the centrepiece that is nearly 10 metres high. People visit Atlantis the Palm just to take pictures next to this work of art. Selfie-tastic.
Sweet Suite
There are cutesy sea motifs all the way to your room: sea shell lamps, bronze sculptures of fish. “Look at this stuff, isn’t it neat…” Depending on the room you book, you’re in for a treat. Underwater Suites give you a view of sea life, while some rooms have aquariums in their bathrooms. There is something thrilling about fish watching you pee.
HH Must-Try: If spending a year’s rent on a room for the night isn’t your thing, ask for a tour of the Royal Bridge Suite that connects the two main buildings of Atlantis the Palm. It’s got a killer view of the palm, the sea, and regal interior design that includes a TV panel that pops out of a cabinet at the click of a button. Oh yeah, and more of the underwater theme everywhere – even the ceiling.
Food-tastic
What are you craving? Name it. Just name it. Atlantis the Palm not only has the answer, but a celebrity chef/Michelin starred answer. Sushi and the it-crowd? Book early to nab a table at Nobu. Italian with a side of romance? Ronda Locatelli will have you saying ‘that’s amore’ by the end of the evening.
Sushi with a side of elegance at Nobu:
Spa-mazing
With so many fun activities to choose from at this busy hotel, going to the spa is a nice way to recharge. Go for the Japanese Ritual that includes full body couples massages and Shiseido facials followed by an elegant spread of sushi and green tea.
Instaparty
When the weather is sweet, there are few sweeter places to party than Nasimi. Right on the beach with a band or a hot DJ doing their thing, it’s a party place with an island vibe like no other in Dubai.
Just for Kids
For kids and kids-at-heart, it’s all about Aquaventure Waterpark. Whether you’re in it to conquer fears of a steep waterslide or strike ‘swim with dolphins’ off your bucket list, we guarantee that by the end of the day you’ll be tired, happy, and have a colourful Instagram feed.
Kids Club or Party Central?
Atlantis the Palm really does have something for everyone. Dine like a celeb (or maybe next to one), party like you’re in Mykonos, or let the kids run wild at the waterpark. Even if you’re a recluse who wants to sit in a corner by yourself, you can do that with a touch of Arabian glamour by smoking a shisha on the beach. Shisha and chill…
Here’s #WhatToPack to make the most out of a stay at Atlantis, The Palm:
435 AED – theoutnet.com
535 AED – vanmildert.com
1,850 AED – neimanmarcus.com
2,225 AED – veryexclusive.co.uk
73 AED – chicos.com
145 AED – casetify.com
400 AED – brandoutlet.borderfree.com
1,665 AED – net-a-porter.com
705 AED – farfetch.com
62 AED – belk.com
350 AED – lanecrawford.com
88 AED – belk.com
99 AED – lordandtaylor.com
55 AED – target.com