As it gets cooler, my heart turns to warm weather, Travel counselor Emma Savage writes:.

Fall and winter vacations mean flying a little farther to reach the sun, but where should you head?

If you’re out of Dubai and want a change from the Caribbean, why not visit Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi.Photo: Travel Counselor

This emirate may not immediately come to mind when you think of independent vacation destinations, but it has a lot to offer. From white sandy beaches and clear blue skies to plenty of luxury hotels and all important guaranteed heat.

Not only that, but there are plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained.

Getting to Abu Dhabi is very easy with direct flights from London and Manchester taking around 7 hours. As such, it is very advantageous compared to flight times to the Caribbean or Dubai.

Abu Dhabi.Photo: Travel Counselor
Abu Dhabi.Photo: Travel Counselor

Abu Dhabi attractions include the Louvre Museum, a fascinating place to spend time with over 600 works of art spread across 23 galleries. There is also the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Ranked in the top three of TripAdvisor’s Top Landmarks, it can accommodate 40,000 large worshippers. If you want to look inside and marvel at the scale, you can take a free tour here. Warner Bros. World has a theme park in Abu Dhabi with six immersive lands, 29 rides and live entertainment. Or why not head to Ferrari World, which features the world’s fastest roller coaster for the whole family to enjoy?

Beaches are a big attraction of Abu Dhabi. The city’s Corniche district has an 8km promenade with bars, restaurants, children’s playgrounds and beaches.

The pristine Yas Beach also has some great facilities such as a shaded children’s splash pool, sailing, kayaking and paddle boarding. There’s also a stylish beach club here with a DJ and an infinity pool.

Finally, Saadiyat Beach is a 9km stretch of pure white sand where you can not only relax, but also try eco-friendly water sports and yoga. If your budget allows, visit Koh Nurai, a private island resort accessible by speedboat from Koh Saadiyat. Here you can stay in villas with pools and personal butlers, and savor delicacies from acclaimed chefs.

Abu Dhabi is constantly evolving to bring new and exciting experiences to its visitors. For example, where else can you stay in a hotel above the Grand Prix track? Here in W Abu Dhabi, where it is! And the soon-to-open 2.8 million square foot retail area will include over 450 stores and 85 restaurants.

Emma Savage
Emma Savage

If you would like to visit Abu Dhabi please contact me as I would love to help you plan your next trip. Email: emma.savage@travelcounselors.com

Happy trip!