7 Best Wedding Locations in the United Arab Emirates

When it comes to Indian weddings, there is one thing for sure, there are lots of ceremonies, grandeur, red and glitter. From the little details to the much bigger ones, everything about them – whether big or small- requires a lot of attention (and some “relative” scrutiny). But, since the bigger things lay heavier on the mind, we will help narrow down your wedding venue options in the UAE very quickly.

Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

There are several properties in Abu Dhabi that would be ideal, but Ritz Carlon Grand Canal Abu Dhabi stands out. With an essence of Italian Renaissance in their architecture, it blends in beautifully with the traditions of the Middle East, and the elaborate sparkle that Indian weddings require. Along with their luxurious accommodations, beachfront spa, several fine-dining restaurants, their Venetian-inspired hotel grounds overlooking the canal and Grand Mosque elevate romance to new heights. They have indoor and outdoor venues that are designed to host up to 1,000 people including a beautiful wedding hall, a sprawling lawn, the hotel olive garden and a canal-front beach.

Speaking to Roshini Daswani, a Bahraini fashion and lifestyle blogger, who got married at the property, she said, “I have always loved the Ritz Carlton Grand Canal Abu Dhabi property, it is so opulent and grand. It was always a dream to get married there, and I knew that only their hotel could meet our needs for our dream wedding. It’s a huge property, and I wanted to have all our events in one hotel, so it becomes easy for our guests. The best thing about the UAE as a wedding location is that the properties are all so opulent and the staff are very polite and hospitable.”

FIVE, Palm Jumeirah

Surrounded by azure seas with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai Marina Skyline, FIVE Palm Jumeirah would be the perfect place to host your wedding. Offering a selection of grand and intimate weddings, the hotel has a choice of different sized venues, including its 14^th floor Vista Ballroom, and a selection of world-class restaurants to provide the catering that is synonymous with luxury and style.  Their team of wedding experts are excellent and will take all your stress away very quickly.

Waldorf Astoria, Ras Al Khaimah

A hidden gem, Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, probably caught your attention with Mohit Marwah’s wedding. The hotel has several choices for venues, the backdrop of the Arabian Gulf and the Hajar Mountains, as well as the hotel’s impressive staircase and a promise of magnificence alluring in every corner. The entire hotel feels like a palace, complete with marble fountains, spectacular chandeliers and huge wedding halls to host all kinds of gathering.

Oberoi Al Zorah

The recently opened gorgeous property is located in Ajman amongst mangrove forests and white sand beaches. Setting tone for more intimate weddings, the venue offers their ballroom that can host up to 250 guests for the wedding functions, along with an adjoining outdoor garden area. There are also al fresco venues on the beach and poolside lawns that can host up to 120 people.

Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island

Offering picturesque locations and memorable views, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island has not one, not two but thee resorts to choose from; including the beachside haven at Al Yamm Villa Resort, an African inspired retreat at Al Sahel Villa Resort or contemporary luxury at Desert Islands Resort  & Spa. You can choose between having a beachside wedding, or one between the island’s exotic wadis or the classic ballrooms studded in flamboyant luxury.

Intercontinental Fujairah

The beachfront property located on the shoreline of Al Aqah Beach boasts a beautiful backdrop of the sparkling Arabian Sea that will add to your wedding pictures. Curating perfectly unforgettable memories for your wedding, the hotel makes for a sophisticated venue with their beautiful ballroom that you can overrun with your selection of colourful flowers, followed by the pheras on the beachside.

Address Boulevard

Located in the heart of Dubai, the Address Boulevard Hotel makes for a stellar wedding venue. With a vast array of sophisticated catering options and ballrooms, your wedding will become even more momentous. The hotel offers packages to suit your unique needs and even the most discerning attendee (we all there is at least one).

Why are Banyan Tree properties the most instagrammable?

I was looking up for the most instagrammable resorts around the world, and Banyan Tree Hotel and Resorts seemed to be a recurring recommendation. To do a little more research, I looked up pictures of influencers or even normal guests who’d visited the properties, and it’s true, they are really instagrammable.

They have beautiful properties scattered around the world, providing everything from the stunning sandy beaches of the Maldives to the Truong Son Mountain Range of Vietnam, there are so many striking aspects to capture and post.

With dramatic vistas spread across a rugged landscape, unspoiled nature and a plethora of historical attractions nearby, Banyan Tree Lang Co is an all-pool villa resort which has magnificent views of the Truong Son Mountain Range, pristine coastlines and tropical forests, the perfect combination for creating stunning snaps. Within touch of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Imperial City of Hue, charming old town of Hoi An and My Son’s historical ruins – culture aficionados will be satisfied with the amount of historical influences at their fingertips.

Prices per night for Banyan Tree Lang Co start from AED 1,468 per villa.

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For nature lovers ❤️ 🇻🇳#SanctuaryForTheSenses #RomanceAndIntimacy #LocallyInfused #Sanctuary #LagunaLangCo #retreat #nature #landscape #travelphotography #travel #travelblogger #travelling #getlost #Vietnam #Asia #wanderlust #wanderer #photooftheday #instagram #sunset #sunnyday

A post shared by Banyan Tree Lăng Cô (@banyantree.langco) on Aug 4, 2017 at 12:47am PDT

The Seychelles and Instagram go hand in hand, and there is no shortage of inspiration on this cluster of islands. A place where tropical forests bloom, Banyan Tree Seychelles offers an exquisite slice of blissful island living, with panoramic views of the best beach in the Indian Ocean from every vantage point. Guests can sail into serenity with an afternoon on the resort’s lake, sample a range of cuisines at one of five restaurants or simply soak in the vibrant vistas from the comfort of their hillside villa complete with private plunge pool.

Prices per night for Banyan Tree Seychelles start from AED 3,427 per villa.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BZLGbbMFTDv/?taken-by=banyan_tree_seychelles

Surrounded by nothing but clear skies, sandy beaches and blue seas, far from the glare of city lights, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is home to some of the world’s most romantic dining destinations. After a day of waterborne activities including diving, snorkeling and sailing, followed by pampering in the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa, guests can head to the sandy shores to sail away on their very own ocean adventure.

Prices per night for Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru start from AED 1,585 per villa.

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@Regrann from @wandering_in_heels – Thank you @banyantreehotels for our unforgettable sandbank dining experience this evening 💜 #Maldives #IndianOcean #Moments #BanyanTree #Sandbank #SandbankDining #BucketList #LonelyPlanet – #regrann . . . #banyantreevabbinfaru

A post shared by Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru (@banyantree.vabbinfaru) on Mar 15, 2017 at 8:31pm PDT

Needless to say, I’m booking my tickets to Maldives, Seychelles and Vietnam. Is there some kind of a round trip that I can do?

Drone pictures that will make you want to travel

Instagram is full of some brilliant drone photography shots- and I’m talking spectacular pictures that will have you in awe. Here’s a selection of pictures that will surely make you want to order your drone right away.

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Traveling from Dubai around Eid

If you’ve been following me on social media, you might be aware of my agony and rants about how expensive flight tickets are during public holidays. Basically, if you want to go anywhere- and I mean, ANYWHERE, it’s ridiculously expensive. But, I’m sure people are still paying those rates and still traveling- I was ready to!

You see, I was planning a trip with three of my girlfriends. Tickets to places like Georgia (which are usually somewhere around AED 1100 return ticket) are for somewhere like AED 3000. Basically, it’s ridiculous. So, after a lot of flight finding and loud crying later- we decided on going somewhere- a drive away. Getting to the point, here’s a selection of places you can go to around Dubai without spending a very pretty penny on 3-hour flight tickets!

1. Salalah, Oman
   If you’re a UAE resident, you don’t need a visa to enter Oman. Salalah is Oman’s oasis. The temperature is much lower than of Dubai’s. So, if Dubai’s 43 degrees Celsius, Salalah is 28-degree Celsius- which sounds SUPER relaxing compared to Dubai. It is a 12-hour drive from Dubai, but there are also 2-hour flights- so take your pick. There are plenty of really nice resorts, hotels, and budget hotel apartments- something to suit everyone’s budget. I would recommend choosing a resort- just so you can have access to a really nice private beach.
   
2. Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
   It’s like 8 degrees less hot than Dubai and there are plenty of hotels to stay at. It is surrounded by Hajar mountains are only 3-4 hour drive from Dubai. There’s a lot to do- you can trek up the mountain, gear up for some water sports, play golf or just relax in the pool. There’s also resorts, hotels and some incredible air bnb deals. If you look carefully you can find some really cool villas.
   
3. Sir Bani Yas Island, UAE
   This is a slightly expensive option, considering it’s all Anantara properties on the island- but from all the pictures I’ve seen, and experiences I’ve heard- it’s beautiful. However, it is as hot as RAK. There’s safari- which sounds just incredible. I’m planning to visit when the weather gets slightly cooler. You can go by road- and then take a speedboat or take a seaplane.
   
   

   

   
4. Fujairah, UAE
   It’s a mere 3-hour drive from Dubai and is super popular for Snoopy Island. The beaches are beautiful, but the city itself stands out for its unique architecture. There’s a giant statue of an eagle that you will easily see.
   
5. Musandam, Oman
   The weather there is the same as RAK, but it will make you forget you are in the middle east. There are several day cruises that take you to Musandam and back for a long, lovely day. It’s all water and hills everywhere, with a chance of seeing Dolphins. You can even stay in a resort near the area to really explore everywhere- but everyone who goes just ends up staying by the coast. The waters are clear blue!
   
   

   

Why we Throw Coins in Fountains?

Whenever we see a fountain- an especially old fountain with flowing water, we see an abundance of coins on the bottom of the fountain floor. We are all guilty of dropping coins in the water- whether we believe or not- in magic of wishes coming true. At least, I am.

This tradition of dropping coins in the water started a really long time ago- but for completely different reasons. Back then, coins were made of copper, and clean drinking water wasn’t steadily available. Dropping copper coins in the water, because of the magic of chemistry cleaned the water and made it better for drinking. So, people used to drop coins in water fountains.

I know this totally takes away the romantic appeal of closing your eyes, making a wish and dropping a coin in the water- but it kinda doesn’t. Think about it, dropping coins in fountains has been a long running tradition. In the olden times, they dropped it- wishing for a longer life and cleaner water. Our wishes- might be a little more elaborate though.

Even if you don’t see me by the fountain, know that I’ve already dropped my coin and a wish in it already.

 

 

What I’d rather be doing: Camping underneath the Northern Lights

I’ve already seen a little of the Northern Lights from Rovaniemi, Finland last September. But, it was only beginning to start, and I’ve heard the best (and slightly longer) shows of Mother Nature’s Aurora are better seen in colder months and from higher points – like in Norway. So, here I am – wishing I was in Norway right now – and right now being early December, sitting under a dark sky with a hot cocoa and a camera ready to see the Northern Lights.

How magical of an evening would that be! Wouldn’t you rather be doing that too?

Photo by Vincent Guth on Unsplash

Photo by Alan Labisch on Unsplash

Photo by Thomas Tucker on Unsplash

Photo by Vincent Guth on Unsplash

Photo by Vashishtha Jogi on Unsplash

Photo by Raul Popadineți on Unsplash

Photo by Marcelo Quinan on Unsplash

Photo by HB Mertz on Unsplash

Photo by Jonatan Pie on Unsplash

 

Printables to remind you of Paris

It’s so important to reminisce and smile, especially when you are sitting on your desk and wishing for holidays and planning where you’ll go. I’ve been thinking of Paris a lot- as if the Paris post wasn’t obvious enough for you- and I’ve been planning of every little detail for whenever I go.

To help me along and keep me thinking and dreaming of Paris, these below (paid) printables seem perfect!

 

1. AGierDesign
2. AlexFosterIllo
3. GalaDigitalPrints
4. AncientShades
5. Press for Champagne
6. Je T’aime
7. Un Deux Trois
8. Lanas Art
9. Mon Rose Ponpon

 

12 Things to See in Paris

Ever since I was little, Paris as always help an enchanting charm- like the one place where ‘love’ origins from for some reason. In all of the world, Paris will always be a good idea, and somehow connected with the notion of ‘love’.

I’m yet to visit Paris, but in my mind- and through my research- I’ve already been there- several times. There are so many beautiful places to see within Paris- and more so, in the whole of France. But, when I will visit, these are the 15, that I wouldn’t want to miss- and in no particular order.

1. Eiffel Tower
   I had to start with the most significant one, right. The Eiffel Tower, a monument that practically draws the Parisian skyline in every illustration created, where on the top floor Tom Cruise proposed Katie Holmes, in front of which so many couples proposed and kissed, and shared moments of awe and love. Visit it once during the morning, and once during the night. As beautiful as it looks during the day, it’s a true sight to behold in the night- with all the light.
   Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 to mark 100 years of the French revolution by Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel. Him, with his associate Maurice Koechlin went on to also design the Statue of Liberty. At its time, it was the tallest building in the world, and stayed so for about 41 years.
   You can read more about the Eiffel on one of my favorite websites to read, History.com.
   
   

   

   

   
2. Musee du Louvre
   You can’t visit Paris without visiting the Louvre Museum. It is the world’s largest museum and one of Paris’ most significant monuments. The museum is a part of the Louvre Palace which was built back in around 12th century. Louvre Museum is best known for being home to one of the most popular paintings in the history, Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. The museum opened before the French Revolution in 1793.
   Admission charges are 15 euros per person, unless you are under 18 years of age. If you can, I would recommend spending the whole day there, if not, keep at least 4-5 hours for the museum, mostly because you’d want to spend all that time there- walking around with your mouth open, in awe.
   

   
3. Notre Dame Cathedral
   Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame is probably the first thing that comes to your mind right? Well, at least that’s the case for me. But, the Notre Dame is more thanthat. Considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture, its one of the most popular Cathedrals in the world. It was built in 1345, yep- the 12th century.  However, during the French Revolution, most of it’s religious imagery and artwork was damaged and destroyed. There have been several restorations processes since then. There is history and character in the Cathedral that can fascinate one endlessly. I’m a sucker for history- so a place like this would definitely grab my attention for longer than others.
   Due to its popularity and significance, there are always long queues to enter the spectacular Cathedral. Be prepared to wait for a while. Also, because it’s Cathedral – there’s a dress code (long-ish clothes).
4. Sainte Chapelle
   Another fine example of French Gothic Architecture, the Sainte Chapelle was finished in the 11th century. Damaged during the French revolution, it was also restored in the 19th century. It is popular for the mesmerizing stained glass work windows. It is really close to the Notre Dame- so they can be visited one after the other.
   Admission fees is just 10 euros, free if you’re an EU passport holder, and from every single review I’ve ever heard- it’s well worth it. The lines here are smaller than the Notre Dame- with wait time just about 15-20 minutes.
5. The Latin Quarter- Luxembourg Gardens
   Le Jardin du Luxembourg is much newer compared to the cathedrals. It was built in the 17th century. Pack a picnic basket with baguettes, fresh macaroons, croissants, fresh strawberries and some bubbles and plot yourself in the beautiful garden. While I would recommend definitely visiting it- especially after a day full of busy itinerary- you can sit back and relax here.
6. Palais Garnier
   A super fancy name to a super fancy Parisian Opera theatre. It was finished in 1875, and got its name from its architect, Charles Garnier. Its popularity is hugely related to the fact that it was the backdrop for the plot of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’. You must tour the insides of the magnificent Opera house.
   The English tours are mostly sold-out, so make sure to book yours before-hand. If not, they also have headsets that can explain the place to you in English and from what I’ve read and heard, quite entertaining. The place gets very busy, so I arrive first thing in the morning. It open at 10am. The guided tours can last somewhere around 2 hours. You can buy the tickets online- but with the date and time slot booked in advance.
7. River Seine- Cruise on the Seine
   The river flows through the heart of Paris, and is one of the must dos when in Paris. The river cruises are usually an hour long. Many reviews suggest that you get some of the best picture of the Eiffel from the river. It takes you under beautiful bridges, much like St Petersburg. 
   There are several cruises you can book from, based on your budget. Remember, research and first-hand reviews are the key!
8. Arc de Triomphe
   The monument was built to honor those who died during the French Revolution and the Napolean wars. Beneath it, is the tomb of the unknown soldier- a memorial to all the soldiers who died during the First World War.
   Get the view and images from Champs Elysee, several reviews don’t recommend paying for the ticket and going on the top. There are several cafes along the Champs Elsyee where you can relax and gaze at the beautiful memorial building. To be honest, its quite like the India Gate in New Delhi- and it stands for the same thing as it does in India- the unknown soldiers who lost their lives to save ours. The monuments also look quite similar.
   

   
9. Montmartre
   This isn’t a monument, it’s actually an area with an old village charm to it, with a selection of luxury cafes. The area is quite known for it’s “romantic feel”. In all the scenarios I build in my head, I am sitting in a cafe with a book, drinking hot chocolate and eating macaroons, when my the one approaches me and we begin our epic love story.
   Located in the area are Moulin Rouge and Sacre Coeur. There are several street artists- selling and performing, so its quite happening. However, be very careful of pickpockets and robbers in this particular area.
   
10. Chateau de Versailles
    
    The Palace of Versailles was built in the 17th century. You can best associate it with Marie Antoinette- her private residence and pompous gardens are within Chateau de Versailles.
    It is a must visit for every Parisian tour- because of its architecture, significance to the French history, royalty and revolution. The grandeur of the palace is beyond mesmerizing- and best described as enchanting. Because of this, you won’t be the only person to see the magnificent palace- plan ahead and reach early- so you don’t have to wait in the queues too long. It’s obviously advised to buy your tickets online.  While you can easily spend the whole day there, you might not have that much time to- so spend at least 2-3 hours in there. Preferably, arrange for a tour guide so you can make the most of the place and find out the little facts and tales of the place.
    The entry to the gardens is absolutely free of charge.
11. DisneyLand Paris
    Confession: I’ve never been to Disney Land. It sucks, I know. A 24 year old, so in love with everything that’s a fantasy and romantic- and hasn’t been to Disneyland. Worry not, I’m trying to find a way to amend that very soon. (Paris, Hong Kong- I’m yet to decide). But, when I go to Paris, I will take an entire day out for Paris. Get there in the morning just when it’s about to open and stay until the park closes, for I can’t imagine another way.
    Admission tickets are roughly about 45 euros per person, which isn’t bad for the most magical place.
    
12. Le Marais
    An historic part of Paris, it dates back to the 13th century. It was home to aristocracy before the French Revolution, since then it’s come back to its superior significance. Its full of super expensive hotels, boutiques, and cafes. Pierre Hermé’s store is also on the street- do NOT miss the delicious macaroons from there. Their cocoa macaroons are literally the best things ever.
    

 

What I’d Rather be Doing: Sitting in Gondolas in Venice

I was sitting on my desk with a long list of things to do for the day, and while the list and my face would say that I don’t have time to sit and gaze at pictures of Venice or plan my trip there, that is what I ended up doing.

So instead of eating my very Italian lunch (Pesto Pasta and tiramisu), I thought of sharing pictures that would make you also want to apparate yourself to a Gondola in Venice.

Kaboom Images

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The Most Instagrammed Locations Worldwide

Earlier today, while doing my regular research about travel and travel trends- I read that a travel website, Travel Bird had recently release the world’s most instagrammed locations around the world.

So, obviously, I had to share.

1. Disneyland, California
   
2. Eiffel Tower, Paris
   
3. Walt Disney World, Florida
   
4. South Beach, Florida
   
5. Berlin Wall, Berlin
   
   

   
6. Las Vegas Strip
   
   

   
7. Big Ben, London
   
8. Times Square, New York City
   
9. Notre Dam, Parisian Region
   
   

   
10. Oktoberfest, Bavaria, Germany
    

The list was detailed into the most instagrammed locations in USA and worldwide and can be read here: Travel Bird

Beach Bag: What to put in there!

I was thinking, and while most of my plans to the beach are super imprompt, I keep forgetting what to really take with me. So, I thought, why not make a little check-list for beach days!

Beach Tote: this is where a good beach day resides. Not by the beach, but by this. This is where everything goes!

Sunglasses: it’ll be sunny, don’t question it- just keep it.

Hat: And you know a hat to keep you safe from the sun- even if you’re planning to tan. You wouldn’t want to be with a headache and be the only one missing post-beach drinks!

Swim-wear: Often, when unplanned- this is what I actually forget to carry to the beach. I’m not even kidding. So, this is definitely one for this list!

Sandals!: You can carry all the chappals you want, but this little baby will transform you from beach day to post-beach night drinks wear 😉

Beach Towel/mat: This is where you plop your bum down and pretend to be enjoying the sun.

Good reads: This is what actually helps you through the beach day. I NEVER forget a book when I go to the beach. I’ve forgotten beach towels, swimwear, extra pair of shoes, even sunscreen- but, I’ve never been without a book!

Cover up: A quick cover-up that you can throw over your swim wear is always required! Especially, if you live in Dubai!

A quick change of clothes: I always carry a quick dress or shorts and tee so I can be ready to go somewhere else, which is always the case.

Sunscreen: Let me break it to you- in Dubai, you must always, always have, wear and carry sunscreen. Fin

Hairties and anklets: Because I like carrying colourful things! Haha

Places Indians get Visa-on-Arrival

If you’ve been reading my blog or have read my previous article about the whole debacle in just getting to Lebanon, you’d understand the necessity of this article.

I’ve worked with several British and French nationalities- most of whom get visas on arrivals – so they’ll never understand the actual pain that it can be to apply for a visa and then convince the visa officers of why you want to travel to their country.

In the spirit of that, I thought it will be a good idea to share the countries around the world that Indians don’t need visa for! Below are 23 out of 49 countries that offer visa on arrival or don’t require a visa for Indian citizens

1. Thailand
   The first country I visited where I was given Visa on arrival. I have never been more happy to stand in the smaller queue for SAARC countries and get cleared within 2 minutes with a visa.
2. Maldives
3. Macau
4. Indonesia
5. Jordan (This is pretty recent and wasn’t the case when I went about 8 years ago!)
6. Cambodia
7. Laos
8. Mauritius
9. Seychelles
10. Kenya
11. Tanzania
12. Madagascar
13. Comoros Island
14. Ecuador
15. The British Virgin Islands
16. Haiti
17. Jamaica
18. Fiji
19. El Salvador
20. Georgia
21. Burundi
22. South Korea
23. Bolivia

 

References:
IB Times
Wikipedia