Equity Mag Jan_18 Book Folder

HOTEL REVIEW
STAY
OF THE
MONTH
Escape the emirates for a nature and
wildlife island-getaway at Al Sahel,
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts
By Nicola Monteath
Driving towards Sir Bani Yas Island, practically near
Ruwais, is far - it takes around three-hours-andthirty
minutes to get to the jetty lounge (from
Dubai) and a 20-minute boat ride thereafter.
But that’s the beauty of this retreat. You leave behind the
stress and humdrum of the city and escape to an island
established in 1977 by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al
Nahyan. The wildlife reserve spans over 87 square kilometres
and is home to gazelles, peacocks and other beautiful animals
you will hardly ever spot in the country – unless at a zoo, of
course. The resort is split into three spectacular experiences
to suit couples and families. We stayed at Al Sahel Villa
Resort where free-roaming peacocks and gazelles visited us
in the backyard of our rustic-style one bedroom pool villa
ever so often. The villa boasts all the modern-day facilities
and items you require, from great WiFi coverage, to a yoga
mat, bird food, Nespresso coffee machine and hairbands, for
women like me who can never figure out where they
disappear off too. The interiors comprise an Arabesque vibe
with wooden beams, Rattan ceiling fans, framed local
handicrafts and a stunning carved bronze standalone tub
with Elemis toiletries. We spent most of our time at the
plunge pool, listening to birds chirping, and admiring peacock
feathers and gazelles as they graze.
EXPLORE
The resorts offer plenty of activities for adults and
children. Try archery, kayaking, play a game of tennis, visit
the library, go snorkeling or mountain biking and explore
the island with a culture and history tour. We opted for
the Nature and Wildlife drive for a one-of-a-kind
experience that felt similar to an African safari. Hop into a
Discovery and embark on an hour and a half journey of
the savannah, to spot one of the world’s most endangered
Oryx species, Arabian Oryx, ostriches, geese, cheetahs,
giraffes and plenty of animals in their natural habitat.
The wildlife sanctuary tour is highly recommended
and includes stops at each site for photo ops – children
will love it.
DINING OPTIONS
The island offers culinary offerings to sate all cravings. Pick
from African barbecue and Arabic fare, to International
and Middle Eastern specialties, or Italian. We couldn’t
make up our minds until the hunger pangs kicked in, and
chose the latter for a hearty rustic lunch. Fresh cherry
tomato bread was dunked into olive oil and balsamic as
we waited for our ravioli filled with ricotta cheese, topped
with creamy taleggio and pecan nuts to offset the dairy
and add a little crunch. For mains, I dove into an incredibly
generous portion of six juicy mint-crusted lamb chops
with mashed baby potatoes, asparagus, and fragments of
garlic and rosemary. My partner opted for the beef
tenderloin with a side of creamy polenta and truffle to
complement each bite, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction
for acidity. Both dishes comprised of succulent premium
quality meat. We shared a traditional coffee-soaked
tiramisu to end the meal and retreat to our rooms for a
long-walk and siesta.
Seafood-lovers can make a trip to Amwaj for dinner, to
devour crunchy and meaty soft-shell crab, and nourishing
shrimp and scallop laksa, while dining al fresco. Choose
from crustacean or fish – we had a fresh and plump
seabass – served grilled or baked with just the right
portion of spinach and ceps, comforting mashed potatoes
with black truffle oil and grilled Mediterranean vegetables,
our chosen sides. A sublime lemon tart with a cup of tea
is the only way you should end your meal here.
Breakfast is best enjoyed outdoors, while watching
creatures pass by as you tuck into freshly prepared eggs,
fruit with muesli, salad with cold cuts, and an extensive
selection of pastries and baked goods.
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EQUITY