Fans of Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan know that Dubai holds a special place in the couple's hearts. So it was highly likely that the loved-up pair would choose to spend part of their honeymoon in the United Arab Emirates' luxury travel destination.The newlyweds have returned to the bustling city where they met during New Year's Eve 2012, and where Mark went down on one knee nine months later to propose to his actress love.
Dubai has always been a popular destination for newlyweds Mark and Michelle
Warm weather the whole year round, teamed with a vast array of attractions and places of interest make this magical city the perfect getaway. Exotic sand dunes, tropical beaches, a seven-star hotel, the world's tallest tower, man-made islands and underwater hotels are just some of the gems worth visiting. Read on to find out more...Where to stayNewcomer to the hotel scene, the Four Seasons Resort opened its doors at the end of 2014 and quickly established itself as hotspot. Situated on the luxurious Jumeirah Beach, it features 237 guest rooms, 49 suites, a nightclub, two outdoor pools and a private beach. A good location for keen shoppers – it's only a ten-minute drive from Dubai Mall and Downtown Dubai, where sightseers can take in the world’s tallest building, the magnificent Burj Khalifa, which stands at a lofty 830 metres.
The Four Seasons was opened less than a year ago
Culinary fans can choose from five restaurants which offer a wide range of dining options; from international cuisine at Suq, to Mediterranean with Asian influenced seafood at Sea Fu, tea and coffee with Arabian sweet treats at Shai Salon, gin and tonics and cigars at the Hendricks Bar and rooftop cocktails at Mercury Lounge.Those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city should check out Per Aquum Desert Palm, which is an oasis of calm and tranquility. This little Arabian boutique hotel, with 38 chic rooms, is set on one of four championship polo fields and each room has its own distinctive design.
Per Aquum Desert Palm is an oasis of calm and tranquility
The establishment offers two award-winning restaurants, Rare and Epicure. Alongside a range of meat and line-caught fish, diners can also find vegetarian options as well as gourmet delights at the Epicure deli style café while enjoying the infinity pool. Guests also have to opportunity to relax at LIME Spa with bespoke treatments and massages.Where to eatA home away from home, the Reform Social & Grill is an excellent choice for those searching for a Sunday roast, something of a rarity in Dubai. It's the city's first gastropub and is based on one of the most vibrant venues in Marylebone, London. Located inside the Lakes, in a gated family-friendly community, it has an outdoor beer garden and was awarded Best Pub Food in Dubai 2015.
At Reform Social & Grill you can treat yourself to a Sunday roast, something of a rarity in Dubai
Situated in the gourmet dining district – just five minutes walk from the Dubai Mall - Manzil Downtown Dubai is an upscale boutique hotel which is a must for gourmands. Headed up by chef Spener Lee, their signature restaurant Boulevard Kitchen serves food from the greater Middle Eastern region with a focus on Levantine cuisine, all to be enjoyed in a contemporary Arabesque environment.
For a dining experience with spectatular views, At.mosphere, located in the world's tallest building Burj Khalifa, is unbeatable. A 44.2-second trip in the record-breaking structure's express elevator takes guests to level 123, where the restaurant is located. Drinks and European cuisine can be enjoyed while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views of Downtown Dubai and the Arabian Gulf.
At.mosphere is located in the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa
Fans of Japanese cuisine should check out Armani/Hashi, at the foot of the tower. Fresh fish is flown in daily for their selection of sushi and sashimi, best enjoyed while taking in the unbeatable panoramic views of the Dubai fountains.Things to doLearn about Dubai's rich culture and local cuisine by joining the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding for a traditional Emirati breakfast in the Bastakia Quarter, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Bur Dubai. Guests will be joined by an Emirati host, who they chat to about United Arab Emirates culture, customs and religion.The most exciting way to see the city in all its splendour is by taking a helicopter ride. HeliDubai offer a 22-minute explorer tour, which takes in some of Dubai's most famous landmarks, including the historical Dubai Creek and the souks, the impressive seven-star hotel Burj Al Arab and the sail-shaped Jumeirah Beach Hotel. The experience is available for £160 per person.
With HeliDubai you will discover Dubai from the sky
Experience a romantic and magical evening in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve with a private torch-lit dinner. Enjoy the sunset over the dunes on a camel ride before feasting under the starlit desert sky in a beautiful Bedouin-inspired tent. Also available for approximately £160 per person from Arabian Adventures (www.arabian-adventures.com).
In the Dubai desert you will experience an unforgettable evening
How to get thereDubai is currently served by 175 direct flights per week from the UK and Ireland. Flight time is about 6hrs 30mins and there are no visa requirements for UK and Irish passport holders. Return economy flights from London start from £369 per person
For more information about Dubai call Dubai Tourism on 020 7321 6110 or check out www.visitdubai.com
Four nights at the Four Seasons costs from £1,199 per person including direct flights with Emirates from London Heathrow. This is based on travel between 1 June and 15 July and must be booked by 30 June. To book or for more information visit travelbag.co.uk
A Palm Duluxe room at the PER AQUUM Desert Palm starts from just £131 per room, per night – a saving of up to 20% when booked before 25 August 2015. This offer is available on stays of five nights or more when travelling before 31 August 2015. To book or for more information visit desertpalm.peraquum.com