Expat Tips for Living in UAE during Ramadan| Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan

May 10, 2017 No Comments

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the 9^th month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims believe that this month is when the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Mohammed. It is the most Holy month in the calendar and during this month, Muslims do not consume food or water between their dawn and sunset prayers. In the U.A.E., everyone (including non-Muslims) are expected to refrain from drinking and eating in public areas as well.

As a non-Muslim new expat spending their first Ramadan in UAE, read on further for a few tips and where to join in on the festivities!

UAE STAYCATIONS

My Weekend in Dubai | Centro Barsha

May 4, 2017 No Comments

Centro Barsha by Rotana, Dubai, UAE

How lovely it was to stay at Centro Barsha by Rotana over the weekend. We were attending a concert in the area and had plans on doing a bit of shopping. Did you know Centro Barsha is only 500 metres away from the Mall of the Emirates and steps from the Metro?! What a perfect location. Although not in the main city center, Centro Barsha is a popular choice among locals, residents and tourists to Dubai.

Apart from its convenient location, I loved staying at Centro Barsha for it’s modern stylish accommodations and affordability. Read on further about my stay.

RESTAURANT REVIEWS

Let’s Go | Andiamo!

May 2, 2017 No Comments

Andiamo! Grand Hyatt, Dubai, UAE

Atmosphere

My husband and I arrived to Grand Hyatt for an afternoon lunch at Andiamo. If you haven’t been to Grand Hyatt Dubai, it is one of the most luxurious and magnificent hotels in Dubai. No wonder its called “Grand” Hyatt. As we entered through the lobby, we immediately tried to look for a map or signs to the restaurants. The foyer is transformed into a large garden/rainforest with small rivers and bridges, it’s a spectacular you need to see for yourself! (Andiamo! – translating to Let’s go! in Italian)

Andiamo has ample seating indoors and outdoors. Several large parties were seated inside right by their live pizza station. We opted to sit outdoors to take advantage of the nice weather while it lasts. There is a large bar area and ample lounge seating. I would imagine the night festivities here would be quite popular.