As it was my first trip to Dubai, I had so much to look forward. The city had been on my bucket list for so long; was it finally becoming a reality? I had to pinch myself to fully acknowledge my excitement. Aside from a long-haul trip (13 hours straight, to be exact) to Dubai International Airport, the temperature was also something else to look forward. I was ready to take it all in until the humidity hit me as soon as I walked out of the plane into the airport. It was a shame I got in so late, as it would have been a Kodak moment to take a few pics from above before landing; but beggers can’t be choosers, right? We headed to our hotel, Manzil Downtown Dubai, the newly renovated sister property to Address and Burj Khalifa with breathtaking views from my room. What a rush to open those curtains and see the grandeur of such incredible architecture before your eyes. As always, I knew everything happens for a reason, and this time was no different. I was truly one lucky gal! I was ecstatic to be here even if it was for work, and I was going to enjoy every bit of it. A few days go by running from meeting to meeting until our reservation time at At.Mosphere on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa. Be prepared to have your ears pop and motion sickness slightly kick in, but I was determined it wouldn’t hold me back. Although the entrance was quick tricky to figure out, almost like a maze, the end result was well worth the hassle. On the very top of the world, lights blinding you below, we got the best seat in the house, right by the window above the world-famous fountains. I tried to take some pictures clear enough to share. We decided to go with the signature selection with some wine of our preference. Dinner started with some wonderful oysters and caviar then moved on to foie gras pie, beef Wellington, chocolate dessert and some complimentary dishes. Our chef even made a stop at our table to make sure everything was to our liking. It was the epitome of 5-star service. If it weren’t for my exhaustion from the day and jet lag, I could stay past our actual 1 a.m. departure to experience a few more drinks from their signature menu. Until next time, stay grand, Burj Khalifa! — Banu Yilmaz, advertising director
Read This Next
Tauck to Launch New Riverboats in France
December 2024
Dec 22, 2024Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDecember 2024
Dec 22, 2024Tauck to Launch New Riverboats in France
Leading guided travel brand Tauck welcomes two new riverboats in France in spring 2026. Set to sail the Rhône and Seine, these two ships, yet to be named, will launch following construction in 2025 in Serbia and the Netherlands.
Sponsored Content
Pick Your Paradise: Experience Bali at 3 Incredible Hotels
Bali is a name synonymous with island bliss. But there is more than just one side to this incredible place. Get a sense for the variety of experiences Bali offers by learning about three hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with distinctive opportunities for adventure and relaxation. With the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card, earn points for free nights at each of these properties.
Airlines
Dec 21, 2024Finnair Boosts U.S. Schedule to Finland
Finnair will boast its largest-ever U.S. schedule to Finland in 2025. Starting March 30, the airline’s popular route to Los Angeles (LAX) will increase from three times per week to five times per week. Additionally, Finnair will offer daily flights from Chicago (ORD) next summer, an increase from the five weekly flights currently on offer.
Daily
Dec 20, 2024Travel Platform Makes for Easier Access to Indonesian Islands
The more than 17,000 islands comprising the tropical country of Indonesia have just become more accessible thanks to new journeys on offer from travel platform Timbuktu. From logistics to curated experiences, Timbuktu’s team of travel professionals can arrange memorable experiences that range from Komodo dragon encounters to hiking along paths on active volcanoes.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands
Nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, the Sporades Islands are a hidden gem of Greece, offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences for every traveler. Comprised of four main islands — Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros — this island cluster is renowned for its lush pine forests, crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches.
Daily
Dec 20, 2024Last-Minute Holiday Happenings at Sofitel New York
Add Sofitel New York to the list of New York City’s must-see holiday hotels. Decked with all the holiday trimmings, the hotel is offering iconic New York City holiday experiences.
British Airways Unveils Brand-New First Class
Daily
Dec 19, 2024Palm House Opens in Palm Beach
Daily
Dec 18, 2024Daily
Dec 18, 2024Italy’s Grand Hotel Fasano to Reopen with New Amenities
Situated on Italy’s Lake Garda, Grand Hotel Fasano reopens in April 2025 with a host of new offerings for guests. Formerly a 19th-century hunting lodge, this hotel is ideally positioned between Venice, Milan and Verona.
Sponsored Content
Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
eFlyer Reviews
Dec 18, 2024Villa Petriolo Review
Tucked in the heart of Tuscany near the birthplace of da Vinci, Villa Petriolo is a luxurious countryside escape that blends historic restoration with modern elegance. A Small Luxury Hotels of the World member, the estate’s meticulous revival of a centuries-old villa and its surrounding properties transformed it into a haven of elegant design, hyperlocal cuisine and postcard-worthy moments. The seamless integration of its organic, regenerative agriculture revival, mimicking the once-bustling production of the property, influences its award-winning cuisine, wine production, spa products and amenities found throughout. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a single detail here that doesn’t speak to Villa Petriolo’s dedication to both the authentic past and hopeful future.
ShareThis