Travel Advice Archives - Page 13 of 20

10 Amazing Queensland Islands to Visit for a Weekend

When people are looking for a summer holiday in Australia, it is more common to look along the East Coast and the Islands available. Can you believe there are over 900 Queensland Islands situated just off this 2000 kilometres stretch of land? Obviously, not all these Queensland islands are habited and not that easy to visit.

Some Queensland Islands are available to visit on a day trip, whereas others have accommodation and camping facilities for a weekend stay. Conveniently, most are located along the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef and are a brilliant way to explore underwater life. Today, we are bringing 10 amazing Queensland Islands to visit for a weekend, which are easy to get to and the most popular.

Note that is you have a small budget in mind, there are a couple of Queensland Islands that are better to visit for a weekend than others. However, as a whole with transfers and facilities available, the costs are higher than staying on mainland. Consequently, day trips and tours can be a more cost-effective way to get a taste of the Islands experiences, while keeping within a strict budget.

The winter season in Australia runs from June to August, and the southern Queensland Islands are a touch cooler in the waters. Alternatively, the summer seasons are brilliant swimming weather, although there is more rain in the region. Therefore, it’s recommended to visit the Queensland Islands around your shoulder seasons in autumn and spring for a planned trip.

Lady Musgrave Island

Coral Reef Fish at Lady Musgrave Island

You can day trip to Lady Musgrave Island from 1770/Agnes Water or Bundaberg, or extend your stay for a weekend. This visit to the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef and a great option for those not able to visit the northern region of Queensland. Boat trips take about 2 hours to get there, and the organised tours allow you to snorkel, view through a glass-bottom boat, and a small land tour.

If you’re travelling from Bundaberg, then there are options for diving the Coral Reefs and sleeping overnight on a purpose-built pontoon. The pontoon offers more room for day-trippers and a top deck for people soaking up the sun. Alternatively, the luxury glamping huts are a big hit for those after a romantic experience.

Snorkelling the reef is beyond amazing, with thousands of different fish and a brilliant spot for finding turtles all year round. The hard and soft corals provide protection for the smaller fish. You’ll also find larger fish hanging out under the large coral bommies.

North Stradbroke Island

Point Lookout North Stradbroke Island in Queensland

The island of North Stradbroke lies 45 mins off the coast of the Queensland capital, Brisbane. This Queensland Island can be easy enough to visit on a day trip, but with so many different things to see and do, it’s better for a weekend. The Ferries can take any vehicles across to the Island, along with just the visitors using public transport. It’s the second-largest sand island in the world and has a permanent population of 2000 people.

While some of North Stradbroke Island will require a four-wheel drive to access the beaches, there are plenty of sealed roads and buses to help you get around. Conveniently, accommodation styles range from Backpacker hostels, caravan sites, beach camping, motel rooms, or Luxury homes.

Plenty of different beaches or places for swimming are on offer, with variety in the amount of surf and freshwater lakes. You can wander the small district and shop for local clothes, art or crafts, or pop into the bakery or café for meals and drinks.

Hamilton Island – The Most Popular of the Queensland Islands

Hamilton island, The Whitsunday Islands, Queensland

Hamilton Island is located in the Whitsunday network, has easy access from Airlie Beach, and even has its own airport. It’s the perfect Queensland Island to visit for a weekend. There are no cars allowed on this Queensland Island, but visitors get around in golf buggies. There are a few different resorts to choose from, or you’ll find secluded holidays home available to rent. Great for a romantic holiday, or even get married there with a purpose-built Chapel.

There are several different activities to do with paddle boarding, snorkelling, and swimming around Catseye beach. Alternatively, you can laze the days away by relaxing on the beach in a lounge chair. Other than that, you can take advantage of the Whitsunday network, which provides ferries to other areas, including the famous Whitehaven Beach or Hill Inlet.

Lady Elliot Island

Lady Elliot Island from the air, Queensland

Lady Elliot Island can only be accessed by plane from either Gold Coast, Brisbane, Hervey Bay, or the closest to Bundaberg. Many will visit this stunning Queensland Island on a day trip of snorkelling fun, or stay in the Eco-friendly resort, for a longer weekend stay. Furthermore, they have a sustainability program set up to ensure the coral cay and the southern Great Barrier Reef area is preserved for many years to come.

It’s all about the water activities with snorkelling, diving, or walking through the reef at low tide. You’ll find many turtles swimming around with you, along with reef sharks and Manta Rays (in Season). On land, you can explore the local bird habitat and the long history behind Lady Elliot Island itself.

Bribie Island – The Most Accessible of the Queensland Islands

Bribie Island National Park in Queensland, Australia

Bribie Island happens to be one of the easiest Queensland islands to visit for a weekend, with the fact you can actually drive there. It’s located off the coast of North Brisbane and separated by the mainland by the Bribie Island Bridge. This means there is a large in-built community and a population of over 16 thousand people.

Most people will visit Bribie for the quiet laidback atmosphere, while also being the best beach so close to Brisbane City. You have the west coast facing the mainland with quiet low-key waters. On the other hand, the east coast faces the Pacific Ocean and often has the surf.

The kids will love experiencing the butterfly house, especially on a bright sunny day. There is also a large golf course, four-wheel driving areas through the National Park, or a place to hire water equipment like paddle boards. The Museum will help you learn about Bribie Island’s history, or you can just sit by the beach, watching the sunrise.

Daydream Island

Lagoon Pool At DayDream Island, Queensland

Daydream Island can be accessed by ferry from Airlie Beach and is also part of the Whitsunday Network of Islands. It’s one of the smaller Queensland islands to visit for a weekend but doesn’t disappoint with its facilities. Everywhere on this Queensland Island can be walked within 30 minutes, whether it’s along the beach or through the bushland. Their rooms offer a tranquil setting with views of gardens or oceans.

A coral lagoon has been set up and makes it easier to experience the underwater creatures, especially for young children. It’s home to over 100 species of fish, starfish, sea cucumbers, and crabs. Not only that, but there is a landscaped pool that meanders through the gardens allowing the visitors to swim in the tropical settings.

Heron Island – Turtle Nesting in the Queensland Islands

Turtle Hatchlings at Heron Island, Queensland

Heron Island is located in central Queensland and can be accessed by helicopter or catamaran from Gladstone. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a Queensland Island to visit for a weekend trip. The more popular boat option leaves 5 days a week and takes about 2 hours to arrive in this island paradise. Currently, the resort will cater to several different room types, from budget to the more luxurious. They can also cater discounts for large groups, weddings, and even business conferences.

Apart from the obvious water activities, Heron Island is known for its turtle nesting population. This means you can see Turtles all year round in the nearby coral reef waters. However, you can witness their Turtle nesting season from November to March each year.

Apart from that, Heron Island has a long history from being a turtle cannery in the 1920s and finally listed as a National Park in 1943. There is a large bird habitat on the island and many different tours help you learn about the Great Barrier Reef and its surrounding.

K’Gari/Fraser Island

Fraser Island views from Indian Head, Queensland

The beautiful K’Gari or otherwise known as Fraser Island, is the largest sand island in the world. It can be accessed by a barge from either Hervey Bay or Inskip Point near Rainbow Beach. It’s hugely popular for the locals as a four-wheel drive and camping location but also loved by the tourists for its unique sites.

Conveniently, Fraser Island is easy enough to visit for the weekend, with one or two-day tours and staying in the resort accommodation. Others will stay for an extended weekend or longer in the many camping locations or holiday homes. Either way, you going to witness many different sites that you can’t see anywhere else in the world.

These include a rainforest growing in the sand at the highest altitude and freshwater streams flowing through the forest for swimming. Not only that but the Pinnacles Rock formation, champagne rock pools, and the SS Maheno Shipwreck that’s slowly eroding away.

Moreton Island

Tangalooma Wreck, Moreton Island Queensland

Moreton Island Lies 1.5 hours off the coast of Brisbane and is the third-largest sand island in the world. Most people will visit the Tangalooma Island Resort for the weekend and enjoy the activities it provides. However, the biggest draw card would be the nightly dolphin visit, where you can get up close to these wild creatures.

The Resort provides many different styles of accommodation, from budget to luxury, as well as a restaurant, bar, and activities & tour booking centre. You can visit this Queensland Island for a day, but we recommend at least an overnight stay to experience most of the sites over a weekend.

Obviously being a sand island, there are four-wheel-drive tours that take you tobogganing, or snorkelling/ diving tours to explore the 14 different shipwrecks. Jet skis can be hired, kayaks, paddleboards, or even Quad bikes or Helicopter tours. Consequently, at the end of the day and with the resort facing west, it’s a magnificent spot to watch a sunset.

Magnetic Island

Arthur Bay, Magnetic Island near Townsville

It takes 30 minutes to access Magnetic Island off the coast of Townsville in North Queensland. Conveniently, you can choose to take your own vehicle to the Island or hire one when you get there. Not only that, but with a population of more than 2000 people, there is an in-built community with plenty of sealed roads.

There are luxury-style hotels with marina and beach views, a hostel with its own private beach, and lots of Airbnb options. With the multiple ferry times, you can access the Island for at least 9 hours of fun and exploration.

The beaches and water activities are always on offer with any Queensland Island you visit. However, Magnetic Island does contain a few different hiking trails and uniquely one that explores WWII remnants and sees the local koala Wildlife, making it a perfect Queensland Island for a weekend trip. Additionally, every evening the allied rock wallabies start jumping around at Geoffrey’s Bay, which makes for an exciting display to see in the wild.

I hope this helps you plan which Queensland Islands to visit for a weekend when traveling Australia. I’m sure there is one suited just for you, and you won’t regret your visit.

Pin 10 Amazing Queensland Islands You Need to Visit

June 21, 2022

48 Hours in Abu Dhabi: A Useful Guide for Last-Minute Trips

Travel Advice

Besides being the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi also carries a reputation for being home to world-class cultural opportunities.

Unlike its glitzier neighbour Dubai, this so-called “Manhattan of the Middle East” also offers more family-friendly attractions, including nature parks, marinas, theme parks, and beaches.

If you were to head to the city for a last-minute weekend break or stopover, you’d need to have a good idea of what you can do and which places to visit in Abu Dhabi. Even with the little time you have to plan for it, your visit can still be as memorable as any painstakingly organised trip to the UAE capital with this helpful guide for 48 hours in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi 101: Fast Facts for Travellers

To make smart choices when booking anything for your trip, it pays to know some important facts about Abu Dhabi that travellers find most helpful, such as:

When is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi?

Wherever you go on a trip, one thing you need to know is the best time to go where you’re headed. Abu Dhabi is no exception.

Although you cannot control this for last-minute trips, you can use the information to determine which places you can enjoy most and, thus, prioritise during your trip (i.e., indoor destinations during warm months, outdoor adventures for cooler months):

December to March: This period is the ideal time to visit the city. It is considered winter time in the UAE. However, this is also the peak period for hotels and airplane flights, which translates to higher travel rates.
April to November: Abu Dhabi weather during this period is on the warmer side, which is why it is also the time when the city is less crowded, and airfare and hotel room rates are most affordable.

How far is the airport from the top Abu Dhabi spots?

If you’re travelling from another country, it also helps to know the airport’s proximity to the best destinations in the UAE capital.

If your plane is set to land at the Abu Dhabi International Airport, below is a list of places you can visit and how long it’ll take to get there:

To Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – 16 minutes by car
To Yas Island – 14 to 20 minutes by car
To Saadiyat Beach – 29 to 33 minutes by car
To the Corniche Beach – 29 to 30 minutes by car

Take note that some of the shorter roads may have toll gates you’ll have to go through. You can also ride the public transport for most destinations, with trips going every 30 minutes.

What is Abu Dhabi known for?

Discover why Abu Dhabi is hailed as the Manhattan of the Middle East

Popular attractions in Abu Dhabi make the news quite often. In fact, some are even recognised worldwide as record-holders, including Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi (largest indoor theme park) and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi (home to the world’s fastest rollercoaster and the one with the tallest loop) in Yas Island.

Are there any hotels accommodating last-minute bookings in Abu Dhabi?

The short answer: “Yes.”

Since you’re staying for 48 hours, you’ll need to find somewhere to stay for two nights. Check last-minute hotels via travel websites and platforms to see which hotels have available rooms on the day of your trip.

Take note of the location and amenities and get as much from your hotel booking as possible. Some even offer theme park entrances built into their travel packages.

Top 4 Places to Visit in 48 Hours in Abu Dhabi

Now that you have some knowledge of Abu Dhabi, the next thing you need to decide is where you should spend your limited time there. Though there are lots of choices, you can start with the following famous spots:

1. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Ride the fastest roller coaster in the world at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Did you know you can squeeze in a couple of bucket-list-worthy activities on your weekend trip to Abu Dhabi?

Head over to Yas Island and satisfy your need for speed. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a destination designed to pump up your heart rate with 20 exhilarating rides.

Here, you can ride Formula Rossa — the world’s fastest rollercoaster — and Flying Aces, the attraction with the highest roller coaster loop globally. You also have the chance to get an authentic Ferrari experience, complete with acrobatic shows and genuine Italian cuisines.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is usually open every day, though this is subject to change. Check their official website before you go to get up-to-date information.

2. The Corniche

Relax on the beach and take in the Abu Dhabi skyline while visiting The Corniche

One of the most popular layover destinations if you only have 48 hours in Abu Dhabi, the Corniche is the perfect place to spend a relaxing weekend.

Tourists flock to this part of the city to witness the gorgeous Abu Dhabi skyline and relax on the beach. This spot is also ideal for families traveling with kids and is best enjoyed in the afternoon, just before sunset.

Food-wise, Corniche Street has a couple of top-rated restaurants to choose from, including Quest and Li Beirut that offer Asian and Lebanese cuisine, respectively.

3. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Visit the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates while spending 48 hours in Abu Dhabi

Your trip to Abu Dhabi won’t be complete without a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Hailed as the largest mosque in the UAE, the mosque offers state-of-the-art architecture made with marble and accentuated with gold and other precious gems. The place reflects the country’s Islamic culture and the wealth of minerals the nation is known for.

Visit times are set between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. from Saturday to Thursday. You’ll have to head there a bit later on Fridays (4:30 to 11 p.m.), as mornings are set aside for worshippers.

But before you go, make sure you choose your attire according to the mosque’s dress code. If you’re not sure what to wear, you can check the Mosque Manners on the Grand Mosque’s official website.

4. Qasr Al Hosn

The free historical exhibition at Qasr Al Hosn explains how Abu Dhabi came to be

Seen as the symbolic birthplace of the city, the Qasr Al Hosn is the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi.

It is the first permanent structure ever built in the UAE capital and holds the story of how Abu Dhabi and its people came to be. The free historical exhibition will show you the most significant monuments of the city and some intriguing testimonies about Abu Dhabi’s traditions, culture, and history.

Though the exhibit is permanent, you might want to consider timing your visit during the Qasr Al Hosn Festival. If your trip happens to be in February, expect to be part of the annual festival and partake in a range of fun cultural activities and enchanting performances you will never forget.

48 Hours in Abu Dhabi – Full of Wonder at the Last Minute

A last-minute trip to Abu Dhabi can be as enchanting as visits planned ahead of time. Even with just 48 hours in Abu Dhabi, this guide can help you optimise the experience so you can have a wonderful time in the UAE capital.

June 17, 2022

How to Optimize Your Nutrition while Backpacking

Travel Advice

Wilderness backpacking is a new adventure every time you step out. Whether you’re making a long trek or only hiking for a few hours, proper nutrition is key for a safe, healthy, and enjoyable backpacking experience.

As fun as backpacking can be, it’s also often challenging, especially if you prefer to go off the beaten path. Fueling your body the right way will make it easier to keep moving forward and take on any terrain that comes your way.

However, if you’re sick of pre-packaged energy bars and gel shots, there are plenty of ways to get creative with your backpacking nutrition while exploring the backcountry. Let’s cover how to pack proactively for your next journey, which foods you should prioritize, and how making nutrition a priority on the trail will boost your performance and help to ensure you stay healthy.

Pack Smart

As an avid backpacker, you know that too much carrying too much weight is a problem. The last thing you want is to get dehydrated or for your stamina to run out quickly because your bag is too heavy. However, the last thing you should compromise is the food you bring with you! When planning your backpacking nutrition, try to get creative about what you pack and how it will impact the weight of your bag. Your goal should be to bring calorie-dense foods that give you energy without taking up too much space or adding too much bulk.

So, how much food should you pack for optimal backpacking nutrition?

The easiest way to figure that out is by doing a bit of math. Try using Petzoldt’s Energy Mile Theory to determine how many calories you’ll need. By the end of your trek, your goal should be the following:

Calories of Food Packed – Calories of Food Eaten = 0

If you’re not sure what to pack to meet your calorie goals, a good rule of thumb is to maximize lightweight foods that are high in caloric density, including

Seeds
Cereal grains
Nuts
Freeze-dried berries

These things will weigh less than energy bars and heavy bags of trail mix, but are high in calories and sugars, and will give you plenty of energy to stay on track.

Stay Hydrated

It’s recommended that you drink at least a quart of water per hour while hiking. If not, you could end up getting dehydrated quickly and experience symptoms like

Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fatigue
Dry mouth
Confusion

Those aren’t exactly things you want to experience when you’re on the trail. Water is essential for any avid hiker, no matter how much space it takes up. You can also choose to pack foods that have a high water content, like melon, celery, and pineapple.

If you’re hiking for a long time or you’re backpacking in extremely hot weather, water might not always be enough to replenish what your body is sweating out. In those cases, ingesting electrolytes is an important component of backpacking nutrition. You can get electrolytes through sports drinks, but consider using electrolyte powders or protein powders for an energy boost if you don’t want to pack separate drinks besides water. Especially if you’re over the age of 50 and backpacking, you need to be sure you’re keeping your energy levels high. Staying physically active will help, but you must feed your body properly as well.

Buying whole foods locally is always a good idea, but if you can’t find something you feel is essential to your trip, you’re bound to find it in an online shop.

Consider Using Supplements to Boost Backpacking Nutrition

Whole nutrition is essential for your health, especially when you’re an active backpacker. If you’ve been doing this for any length of time, you likely have a basic understanding of what your body needs to stay alert and healthy on the trail. That might include eating a hearty breakfast to boost your energy or stopping to rest and have a snack every hour or two.

However, depending on your personal nutritional needs as well as your activity level, what you eat might not always be enough to give your body what it needs. Backpackers can’t often obtain things like fresh meat or foods rich in omega-3s. If you know you’ll be on the trail for a while and want to ensure you’re focusing on whole-body nutrition while backpacking, supplements can help. Many are designed to boost your heart health, while others can ensure your mind and body are functioning the way they should.

Backpackers need to take nutrition very seriously. There’s a fine line between knowing what/how to pack and making sure you’ll have enough to sustain yourself on the trail. If you’re just starting out as a backpacker, err on the side of caution and “overpack” without weighing yourself down. You’ll quickly learn what you need to stay healthy and hydrated on your treks through some trial and error. Whatever you do, though, keep backpacking nutrition at the top of your priority list, and listen to your body when you’re on your backpacking adventures.

June 14, 2022

How to Prepare for a Backpacking Trip: A Super Simple Guide

Travel Advice

If you are looking for a grand adventure, then a well-planned backpacking trip is the best way to find it because there is nothing quite like taking the long trail up a mountainside or through a gorgeous forest. However, while it may seem easy to just buy a backpack and start walking, there are many considerations and things you must do to prepare for a backpacking trip.

We are here to help. Whether you are an experienced hiker or you are just starting out, we have some great tips and pieces of advice that can be lifesavers during your next backpacking trip.

Choosing the Right Backpacking Gear

When starting to prepare for your a backpacking trip, then you will want to take some time to get your body and mind in tip-top shape so you don’t get out there to find out that you weren’t truly prepared.

For starters, you will need to choose the right backpack. If you are planning a long hike, then you will need to buy a pack that has all of the essential elements, including a top-loading design, extra pockets, and a water bladder pocket so you can always stay hydrated. Try on different packs and make sure that it is comfortable because you’ll have it on your back for long periods of time.

As part of your training, you will want to find and purchase shoes or boots that are comfortable and durable enough to last throughout your adventure without falling apart or hurting your feet.

When shopping for boots, make sure to try them on before you buy. You’ll want to find boots that are snug around your entire foot but not too tight, and you should have a little bit of wiggle room for your toes.

You do not want them to be loose, or they could end up hurting your feet. Once you find what you need, wear them during your training.

Physically Preparing for Your Backpacking Trip

Next, you will need to get in shape and prepare your body for the long journey backpacking. You are going to want to practice by walking a lot in the months and/or weeks leading up to your hike.

You will want to aim for at least 10,000 steps a day. Once you get used to the motion, you’ll need to kick it up a notch by walking up and down hills or stairs so you can get your body used to that movement. As a final step, add weight to your backpack and walk with it a lot until you build up your muscles.

Basic First Aid for Your Backpacking Trip

It is important for both new backpackers and seasoned pros to brush up on the common risks and dangers that can occur out on the trail because if you are always prepared and you understand the potential dangers, then backpacking can be a very peaceful endeavor.

For starters, you never know when someone will trip or get hurt in some way, so it is essential to be protective and pack a first aid kit. Your kit should include basic hiking materials, such as gauze, bandages, sanitizer, and sunscreen, along with any necessary medications.

A common threat that can become a reality during a hike is the potential of ticks and other pests. It is important to know how to combat and prevent ticks, which includes wearing long pants, using insect repellant, always staying on the designated trail, and avoiding walking through long grass whenever possible.

Make it a point to stop at regular durations throughout your hike to check for ticks. Always look at the common hiding places, such as the back of the knees, between your legs, and around your waist.

You will want to have a pair of tweezers in your first aid kit, and if you find a tick, use them to pull the head of the pest upward using even pressure. Once you are sure it is removed, clean the area with antiseptic.

Mapping Out Your Plan Ahead of Time

It is also a wise idea to research the trail ahead of time, so you don’t run the risk of getting lost or becoming stressed. If information is available, then get a general idea of the course that your trail will take and always follow all posted signage. Make sure that your phone is fully charged, and bring an extra charger so you can call for help if necessary.

Packing the Right Food to Optimize Nutrition

How you fuel your body before and during the adventure is an incredibly important part of preparing for your backpacking trip, so you have the physical strength to get through your journey. As you prepare for a backpacking trip, make an effort to change your diet and avoid the fast foods and overly sugary treats that can hinder your body and prevent you from enduring extensive periods of activity.

Continue this diet up until the day of the hike. In the morning, make sure that you have a smart and solid breakfast. This is truly the most important meal of the day because by including fruit, dairy, and whole grains, you get the essential nutrients that your body needs, which helps to control your blood sugar levels, manage your weight, and most importantly, provide a natural energy boost to keep you going during the hike. You should bring other nutritious snacks like granola and trail mix so you can stay nourished and energized until the end.

Of course, you also need to drink plenty of water during your expedition. By staying hydrated, you replace the fluids that you flush out by sweating, and drinking water also helps you to stay alert. As a general rule, try to drink a half-liter of water for every hour of walking in moderate temperatures.

As you can see, there is a lot to consider before you head up the trail during your next backpacking expedition. Follow the guidance provided here, and you will stay in great shape during your next adventure.

May 23, 2022

3 Most Popular Cultural Destinations in Abu Dhabi

Travel Advice

People travel for many different reasons. Some consider it a chance to relax, while many think it’s a good means to “escape” their busy lives. Others visit foreign places for self-discovery or to cultivate interpersonal relationships.

Statistics show that many people choose Abu Dhabi as a travel destination, regardless of the goals they set out for their trips. In 2019 alone, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) capital welcomed roughly 11.35 million visitors – a 10.5% increase from the previous year.

If you’re planning an excursion to Abu Dhabi to enrich your life, consider these top three most popular destinations in Abu Dhabi.

1. Qasr Al Watan

The stunning and extravagant Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi

Opened to the public in March 2019, Qasr Al Watan is the official presidential palace of the United Arab Emirates. While still serving its official purpose, the palace now welcomes hundreds of visitors to its 380,000-acre grounds almost every day and is one of the best cultural destinations in Abu Dhabi.

The Palace of the Nation’s magnificent architecture is one of the primary reasons people go there. However, the place is more than just a tourist spot. The building also serves as the venue for the Council of Ministers and Federal Supreme Council meetings, and several other historic conventions with foreign leaders.

What to See

An Abu Dhabi palace booking grants you access to some of Qasr Al Watan’s most culturally enriching areas, such as:

The Great Hall: This 10,000-square-meter (107,639 square-foot) space made of marble and gold is one of the best spots in the palace. The details in its design, enhanced by complex geometric textures, made The Great Hall a breathtaking scene every visitor would want to enjoy.
Presidential Gifts: This showcases the diplomatic gifts the UAE received in the past decades. Besides the aesthetic value of the displays, the exhibition also offers insight into the process and cultural considerations in diplomatic gift selection.
House of Knowledge: Located in the east wing of the presidential palace, this area holds some of the nation’s rarest artifacts, manuscripts, and books, including religious texts from the Bible and the Quran. This is also where you’ll find a collection of the ancient geographic maps of the Arabic region.
Qasr Al Watan Library: Home to more than 50,000 books documenting the culture and history of the country, the Qasr Al Watan Library’s goal is to share and preserve centuries-worth of Arabian knowledge. Because of this, it is considered one of the most important libraries in the UAE.

Besides what’s inside the palace, you can also get the chance to witness the Palace in Motion. This captivating nighttime show lights up the place for 15 minutes in the evening, from Thursday to Saturday.

How to Get To Qasr Al Watan

Qasr Al Watan is located in Ras al Akhdar, commonly referred to as the West Corniche.

From the main Corniche, walk to the end of the beach road. Pass the Founders Memorial, with the Emirates Palace and Etihad Towers on your right and left, respectively.

As you reach the end of the road, you’ll see a grand entrance reserved only for VIPs. Go to the smaller door on the right side of the gate where you’ll be directed to visitor parking. Present your tickets and ride a shuttle to the palace grounds.

You can visit Qasr Al Watan between 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily but always check for announcements on the schedule because the place is closed when used for official business.

2. The Corniche

Walk along the Corniche and take in the skyline of Abu Dhabi

Considered one of the most popular destinations in Abu Dhabi, The Corniche is a road extending across eight kilometers of a carefully manicured waterfront.

Running along the northwestern coast of the UAE capital, it has various areas designated for different activities, including:

Cycle and pedestrian pathways
Children’s play areas
Restaurants and cafés
The Corniche Beach

The Corniche is an ideal destination for families and becomes quite busy during the winter months.

What to See

The Corniche is accessible to guests all day long. However, the beach is only open from 6 a.m. until sunset.

If you decide to visit the two-kilometer beach, choose the perfect spot for you among the three sections it’s divided into:

Gate 4: This free-entry area is most popular among individuals and larger groups.
Gate 2: Fenced and equipped with a quiet zone, this area is the best spot for families and children. You’ll also find changing rooms and showers here, along with cabanas, sun loungers, and umbrellas for rent.
Gate 3: Like Gate 2, this part of the beach is shielded from view and has access to the beach amenities mentioned earlier. It is an excellent choice for children and families and has an on-duty lifeguard until sundown.

How to get to The Corniche

You can get to The Corniche from anywhere in Abu Dhabi, but Al Bateen, Al Khalidiya, and Al Zahiyah (the tourist club area) are the nearest places to it.

On a car, input F8FR+93 Abu Dhabi on your virtual map or navigation system to get directions. You can also take a bus on the following routes:

3. The Louvre Abu Dhabi

The Louvre Abu Dhabi with it’s unique architecture

The Louvre Abu Dhabi exhibits a whopping 600 artworks within its light-filled modern architecture – a true haven for art enthusiasts. The first Louvre outside France, the structure itself is designed to work in perfect harmony with the desert surroundings, making it a popular destination for Abu Dhabi travelers with an eye for beauty.

What to See

Situated in the Saadiyat Island Cultural District, the Louvre leaves onlookers in awe with just a glance, thanks to its unique architecture and placement.

Designed as a “museum city” by the sea, Louvre Abu Dhabi was inspired by low-lying Arab settlements and the Medina and is made more special with a modern touch.

Besides the structure itself, you’ll also find various exhibitions and galleries that can make your tour of Abu Dhabi more enriching. These are carefully curated and placed in three wings in the Louvre:

Wing 1: Composed of three galleries, this wing houses artwork and artifacts from early human civilizations. It is also home to some masterpieces from ancient empires in Arabia, China, and Africa.
Wing 2: This is where you’ll find pieces from universal religions worldwide. This wing also features various masterpieces reflecting Asian trade routes used throughout history.
Wing 3: Unlike the first two wings with three galleries, this area has four, each showcasing inspiring pieces from various periods, including the ancient Chinese, Napoleon, and Columbus eras. It also has several items from famous trade routes people used globally.

How to Get To The Louvre Abu Dhabi

The Louvre Abu Dhabi is open between 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. from Tuesday through Sunday. You can reach the museum through the following:

By car: From Dubai, take the Yas Island/ Saadiyat Island exit to Sheikh Khalifa Highway E12. Drive along Yas Highway until you reach the Cultural District on Saadiyat Island, following road signs to Louvre Abu Dhabi.
By bus: Take the public bus bound for route 94.

Explore More Destinations in Abu Dhabi

There’s a lot of things to do in Abu Dhabi. Besides the cultural destinations mentioned here, you can also try indoor wall climbing and other adventurous activities that offer enrichment beyond a temporary escape from a busy life. Explore more and have the best vacation today in the UAE capital.

May 22, 2022