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Globe and Mail
08-05-2025
- Globe and Mail
At the Delano Dubai hotel, luxury is served up with a twist of Miami style
Whether you find yourself in Dubai for a quick business trip or on a stopover heading further afield, this is a city that wants you to come and gawk. The world's tallest building? Check. A ski slope in the desert? Yep. So it's fitting that Dubai's new luxury resort is found on Bluewaters Island, the man-made patch of land that has become a playground for well-heeled sightseers. Tucked behind the city's famous Ain Dubai, the world's tallest Ferris wheel, the beachfront resort hotel Delano Dubai has set up shop where anything seems possible (if you have enough cash), even a fake island. Perched on the shores of the Persian Gulf, Delano Dubai opened its doors in October, 2024, after taking over a stand-alone wing of the former Caesar's Palace; a 10-month renovation saw rooms expanded and rebranded. Why you should visit Guests looking for a reprieve from the city's trademark opulence will get a change of scene here. The 251-room Delano takes its design cues from its Miami outpost, opting for floor-to-ceiling windows in the lobby to showcase the sea view, sleek white-oak flooring and muted furniture with pops of deep, rich colour from the velvet banquettes. At night, the hotel closes the billowy white curtains and dims the lights to transform the lobby into a candle-lit haven, like the living room of your richest friend. Delano's South Beach mothership looms large here. Framed photos of the Florida hotel line the walls, and bowls of green apples sit at the check-in desk, a nod to designer Philippe Starck, who made his mark in Miami with signs emblazoned with the quote, 'An apple a day keeps the doctor away.' In Dubai, guests return to their room to find a fresh apple placed in a green glass jar. Expect more sleek minimalism in your room. White walls and curtains give the rooms a beachy, clean vibe, accented by light floors and cabinetry. Plush robes, slippers and a Dyson hairdryer are tucked away in the closet. Marble bathrooms are outfitted with Byredo toiletries and waffle towels. (A fun bonus: Hidden speakers in the bathroom pipe in the sound from your TV in the adjoining sleep area, letting you listen to the news while you get ready.) Instead of gilded chandeliers or gold-plated anything, Delano flexes its luxury muscle in more subtle ways. The hotel rooms come stocked with a mini-bar offering up undereye hydration patches for puffy eyes, packets of electrolytes and beauty collagen shots along with the usual array of tea, coffee and snacks. There's no spa here; instead, the hotel is gearing up to open an 'aesthetics clinic' to offer Botox and filler treatments to beauty-conscious guests. But workout buffs will find everything they need in the 24-hour gym, including a full selection of free weights, machines and a yoga studio, plus a separate and private outdoor space for yoga, Pilates classes and meditation. But the pool is where the real action is. Here, you'll find families and couples lounging under umbrellas or towelling off after a dip under the swaying palm trees. The hotel's Pool & Beach restaurant is on the pool deck and is a great place to grab an outdoor salad or a cool drink and soak up the party-lite vibe: the upbeat soundtrack in the background is not obtrusive enough to interrupt a light snooze or a good book. Better yet, head to the beach just steps away from the pool and marvel at the fact that you're standing on an island that didn't exist a decade ago. While service was prompt and friendly, the hotel is still ironing out some minor wrinkles. Wait staff at the hotel's poolside restaurant Tutto Passa seemed flustered and overwhelmed by the breakfast crowd, so securing a much-needed cup of coffee was needlessly complicated. More surprising, and perhaps less forgivable at a luxury resort, was the noticeable absence of poolside service. You want a high-end mocktail or a cold glass of water to beat the heat? You're on your own. Step off the island with Frying Pan Adventures for a walking tour in old Dubai, where enthusiastic host Farida Ahmed introduces visitors to all her favourite haunts and gently corrects your pronunciation of 'hummus.' We sampled fresh falafel, an Iraqi fish dish and a delicious array of desserts, including the famous kanafa. You'll leave the tour feeling like a stuffed local. For a fancier but also completely unpretentious meal on the town, head to Orfali Brothers in the Al Wasl neighbourhood. Chefs and siblings Mohammad, Wassim and Omar pay tribute to their Syrian roots, serving up fun plates such as 'corn bomb' (a crunchy tortilla topped with corn and aged Parmigiano-Reggiano) and 'come with me to Aleppo' (a kebab of wagyu beef with sour cherries on top). The restaurant doesn't serve alcohol, but prides itself on an extensive array of house-made mocktails, including an impressive smoked-sour-cherry kombucha. Be sure to try the vanilla caramel tart and the strawberry cheesecake, which look like works of art. It's easy to be seduced by the cool elegance of the Delano, which offers a welcome hideaway on Bluewaters Island far from the towering skyscrapers and big-city bustle. It's almost enough to make you forget that you'll be stuck in Dubai's infamous traffic again in no time. Rooms start at around $925 a night. Emirates Airlines offers direct flights from Toronto and Montreal; travellers passing through Dubai on a long layover may qualify for the airline's Dubai Connect program, which offers complimentary hotel accommodation, transfers and meals. If your transfer is longer, the airline's Dubai Stopover program can help make the most of it with exclusive perks and discounts to city attractions. The writer was a guest of the hotel. It did not review or approve the story before publication.
Los Angeles Times
09-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
The Vegas Minute: Do This Once! (Or Maybe Twice.)
Las Vegas is a city of firsts: Nevada (and by extension, Vegas) was first to legalize gaming in 1931. The concept of the mega-casino was born here (there's a giant pyramid hotel, built in 1992, on the Strip after all). And the city was the first to cover an entire section of city blocks with a giant screen, creating the eye-popping Fremont Street Experience. So, it should come as no surprise that there are many things one can do in Vegas that are hard, if not impossible, to find anywhere else in the world. How lucky are we to have this right in our own backyard? Next time you're there – and let's face it, Angelenos go to Vegas a LOT – experience the city in a way you haven't thought to do before. 'Roll' In While it's true the Vegas landmark has lost its superfluous 'tallest' crown, the High Roller, an 'observation wheel' sitting directly on the Strip center and towering over almost everything, remains among the largest Ferris Wheels in the world. (Only Ain Dubai, opened in 2021, is taller.) But 550 feet is enough to offer a bird's-eye view of Sin City and far beyond from the comfort of your enclosed 'pod.' To get a sense of scale, each cabin on the wheel can hold 40 people. Try the 'Happy Half Hour' – an open bar in the sky for you and your friends as you take in the marvelous evening view – it might be the most 'elevated' cocktail you've ever tried. Take a DriveLos Angeles is a car town, and maybe even more than that, it's a place where you'll see some of the wildest exotics roaming the backroads (or suffering in traffic with us mere mortals). However, if you want to get yourself behind the wheel of one of these supercars, you'll have to either make some powerful – and trusting – friends, or head to Las Vegas Speedway. That's where Exotics Racing can connect enthusiasts with the vehicles of their dreams, unleashing them on the famed track. If you've ever wanted to feel the raw surge of power from a biturbo Ferrari or the 690HP of a Porsche 991 GT2 RS, you have 'car' blanche to do so. If this all seems like too much, Exotics Racing offers go-karts so you can get the thrill and bragging rights while keeping it under 100mph. Float OutIt's just a half hour outside of Las Vegas, AND it's one of the reasons the city can exist: the famed Hoover Dam, which supplies the entire region with both water and power. The landmark public works project, possibly the most-recognized dam in the world, is cool, sure, but doesn't exactly warrant a 'once-in-a-lifetime' moniker. That is, until you're in a raft looking straight up at the 700-plus-foot-tall structure (and trying not to think about just how much water it's holding back.) Hoover Dam Rafting Adventures, who just started up their 2025 season in late February, have the tour, which takes you up the Colorado River and into the shadow of the arched concrete dam via a large and comfy raft, allows for an entirely unique perspective of both the site and the more recent Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, the largest concrete arch bridge in the U.S. In addition, the float down the river connects you with some amazing natural sights, including migratory birds, Bighorn sheep and beautiful natural formations.
FACT
28-03-2025
- Business
- FACT
Staycation Spotlight: Can Delano Dubai reawaken Bluewaters Island?
The Delano brand makes its debut in the Middle East. Bluewaters Island in Dubai has had its fair share of challenges. Ain Dubai stopped spinning, Caesars Palace Dubai closed, and, during the day, it is a sleepy spot. Now, the five-star hotel Delano Dubai has opened, and it looks set to wake up the island with its bars, restaurants and beach clubs. The hospitality company, Ennismore, is behind Delano Dubai, which marks the first Delano hotel in the Middle East. In 1995, the first Delano opened in Miami, and wherever you are in the world, the ethos has remained the same. The hotels ooze an effortless elegance, and offer a personalised – without being pretentious – experience. Delano Dubai's interiors draw inspiration from the sleek, subtle aesthetic of its Miami counterpart. The lobby is a breath of fresh air, and it feels like you've entered a spa, thanks to the white fabrics wafting, soft scents and floor-to-ceiling windows framing the Arabian Gulf. When I arrived, after a long flight from London, the staff were smiley but slow. While I waited for my room to be ready, the lobby was not designed to linger, and I was ushered to The Store with tiny tables and smart sockets. Delano Dubai Rooms and suites Delano Dubai is home to 251 rooms and suites. The options range from suites with a private pool to a five-bedroom penthouse. We checked into the Rising Light Guestroom Sea View with a Balcony. Spanning 40 square metres, it boasted a muted, minimalist aesthetic with soft furnishings, marble and wooden floors. The colour palette of beige, creams and whites was punctuated by bronzes, browns and gold. Delano Dubai features functional finesse, from the safe box hidden behind a bespoke wooden cupboard to the Dyson hairdryer in a leather box. The beautiful bathroom is thoughtfully laid out, with the toilet on one side of the corridor and the bathtub and shower on the other. The room also included a king-size bed, a small sofa, and a balcony with a serene sea view. Restaurants and bars Delano Dubai is home to a range of restaurants and bars. Breakfast is served at the all-day dining restaurant, Tutto Passa. The concept brings the vibes of the Amalfi Coast to the Arabian Gulf. The breakfast menu includes a range of egg to sweet dishes, from Scrambled Eggs and Smoked Salmon to French Toast. Plus, the buffet is brimming and beautiful. At Blue Door, Anatolian cuisine is served amidst waterfront views, while the reimagined Rose Bar is a luxurious spot with a vibrant social atmosphere echoing the legacy of the celebrated venue in Miami. The beach clubs showcase a laid-back luxury. Delano Pool and Beach is at the heart of the hotel, and many of the rooms overlook the pool. I wish I had more time to explore La Cantine Beach, which is a short walk or buggy ride away. The concept combines relaxation, wellness, and sport across its menus and facilities, and it includes a pickleball court, a volleyball court, children's activities, and an outdoor gym. Maison Revka Dubai feels like a Baroque painting come to life. The Slavic restaurant offers glamorous grandeur, soft shadows and a dose of drama. Rose Bar is fun and funky – visit the mirrored room for a swanky selfie. The venue has created an alluring atmosphere with sultry shades of red, red-hot curtains, sofas and chairs, and dim lighting. Blue Door is a Mediterranean marvel – make sure you sit outside, under the trees and order plates to share. Facilities Guests at Delano Dubai have access to the Banyan Tree Spa, which draws inspiration from Asian traditions. The facilities include a Jacuzzi and pool, and treatments range from facials to massages. The menu includes Chinese Traditions, Indonesian Traditions and Thai Traditions. The property also features a pristine private beach and enchanting gardens. The pool area, reminiscent of Roman baths, serves as a social nexus, with strategically placed loungers and umbrellas emphasising the idyllic setting. The Verdict Delano has been shaking up the hospitality scene in Las Vegas and Paris and looks set to do the same in Dubai. Taking over the site formerly occupied by Caesars Resort Dubai, the hotel has undergone a transformation to create a space that seamlessly merges the outdoors with the indoors. It's not often that slippers make a mark, but these were by far and away the best slippers we have ever had in a hotel. The sink-into-slippers made us feel like we were walking – and getting ready to sleep – on cloud nine. Delano Dubai: wake up to this wonder on Bluewater Island. GO: Visit for more information.
Hi Dubai
07-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Through Your Lens: The Most Instagrammable Spots in the City
Dubai is a visual marvel, a city where golden deserts meet futuristic skyscrapers, and tradition blends seamlessly with innovation. Every turn offers something breathtaking, a skyline that shimmers under the sun, beaches with crystal-clear waters, luxurious rooftops overlooking the city, and heritage sites that whisper stories of the past. It's no wonder Dubai has become a global favourite for Instagrammers and photographers alike. With an endless array of picture-perfect locations, Dubai offers more than just beautiful backdrops; it's a city designed to be captured. The sky-high elegance of the Burj Khalifa, the dreamlike curves of the Museum of the Future, or the chic café corners filled with pastel hues and neon signs, every shot taken here feels like a postcard from the future. This guide takes you through Dubai's most Instagrammable spots, from iconic landmarks and serene beaches to hidden gems and trendy cafés. Ready to explore the city through your lens? Here's where to start. Iconic Landmarks & Architecture Dubai's skyline is nothing short of awe-inspiring, blending record-breaking skyscrapers with architectural wonders that make for striking photographs. Burj Khalifa & Downtown Dubai The tallest building in the world offers endless photo opportunities. A full-length shot from the Dubai Fountain area captures its scale, while an evening photo with the light show in the background adds a magical touch. Inside, the observation decks on levels 124 and 148 provide panoramic views that make for stunning cityscape shots. Museum of the Future A structure that looks like it belongs in a sci-fi movie. The intricate Arabic calligraphy engraved on its stainless-steel exterior reflects sunlight beautifully, making it a favourite for photographers. The best shot? A wide-angle view that captures its curved silhouette against Dubai's skyline. Dubai Frame View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dubai Frame (@dubaiframe) Standing between old and new Dubai, this giant frame creates a visual contrast between the city's past and future. Photographers love the symmetry it offers, especially when capturing a perfectly aligned shot of the skyline within the golden frame. Ain Dubai (Dubai Eye) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ain Dubai (@aindxbofficial) This massive observation wheel on Bluewaters Island offers a fresh perspective of the Marina skyline. A photo taken from the island at night, when Ain Dubai is lit up in vibrant colours, makes for an eye-catching post. Beaches & Waterfront Views Dubai's coastline is a mix of sophisticated beach clubs, natural beauty, and cityscapes meeting the sea. Sunsets here are mesmerizing, the water reflects the skyline, and every beach offers a different kind of Instagram-worthy backdrop. JBR & Bluewaters Island This lively beachfront area is where modern city life meets the sea. JBR's urban beach scene is filled with colorful murals, trendy cafes, and people enjoying the sun. A stroll across the bridge to Bluewaters Island offers stunning views of Ain Dubai, with the Marina skyline shimmering in the distance. Burj Al Arab Beach No Dubai photo collection is complete without a shot of the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab. The best angles? Capture it from Jumeirah Beach with the waves in the foreground or from a nearby luxury beach club for a more curated aesthetic. Palm West Beach A favorite for golden-hour photography, this stretch of shoreline is lined with upscale restaurants and chic beach lounges. The view of Dubai Marina across the water, especially at sunset, makes for an incredible frame. Dubai Creek Harbour This quiet waterfront spot gives one of the best panoramic views of the Burj Khalifa from across the water. The blend of modern skyscrapers and peaceful waters creates a unique photo contrast, best captured at dusk when the city lights reflect beautifully on the creek. Every beachfront location offers a different visual appeal, from luxurious vibes to laid-back coastal charm. These spots bring out the best of Dubai's waterfront beauty, making them perfect for Instagram-worthy moments. Desert & Nature Escapes Beyond the city's skyline and beaches, Dubai's natural landscapes offer some of the most breathtaking and unexpected photo opportunities. The contrast of golden dunes, rocky mountains, and lush green spaces makes for an unforgettable visual experience. Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve The endless rolling sand dunes here create the ultimate desert photography spot. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to capture the soft golden hues of the landscape. Camels roaming freely, traditional Bedouin camps, and falconry displays add a cultural touch to the perfect shot. Hatta View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Hatta (@ A peaceful escape into the mountains, Hatta is a dream for nature lovers. The turquoise waters of Hatta Dam, surrounded by rugged peaks, make for a stunning contrast. Kayaking on the water or standing at the viewpoint overlooking the dam both create striking images. Love Lake Dubai A hidden gem in the middle of the desert, this heart-shaped lake is surrounded by greenery, making it one of Dubai's most romantic Instagram spots. A drone shot works best to capture its full shape, while a closer perspective highlights the tranquil ambiance. The Green Planet Dubai's indoor rainforest is a paradise for nature photography. Vibrant tropical plants, waterfalls, and exotic birds make this space feel like a jungle in the heart of the city. A close-up shot with butterflies or parrots adds a unique element to any Instagram feed. Dubai's natural landscapes provide a refreshing change from its modern cityscape, proving that the emirate offers more than just urban beauty. Each of these locations brings a different colour palette and vibe, perfect for creating a diverse set of Instagrammable memories. Trendy Cafes & Restaurants Dubai's cafes offer carefully curated interiors and unique design elements, making them the perfect spots to enjoy and capture the moment. SEVA Table (Jumeirah) View this post on Instagram A post shared by SEVA Table (@sevatable) An oasis of calm, this bohemian-inspired vegan café is a hidden gem. With its earthy tones, wooden furnishings, and cosy garden seating, every corner feels like a retreat. The smoothie bowls and colourful lattes are as photogenic as the surroundings. Brunch & Cake (Al Wasl & The Pointe) Known for its whimsical food presentation, this Dubai favorite serves oversized croissants, floral lattes, and beautifully plated breakfasts. The Mediterranean-inspired interiors with rustic touches add to its charm. Saya Brasserie (City Walk & Other Locations) A café straight out of a romantic dream, Saya's pink walls, neon signs, and floral arrangements make it one of the most Instagram-friendly places in Dubai. Every dish is carefully crafted to be as visually appealing as it is delicious. One Life Kitchen & Café (Dubai Design District) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Majara DXB (@majaradxb) Minimalist yet warm, this design-forward café is perfect for those who love aesthetic simplicity. The neutral tones, hanging plants, and soft lighting create a relaxed, effortlessly cool backdrop for casual shots. Boston Lane (Al Quoz) Hidden in a creative warehouse district, this Melbourne-inspired café brings retro vibes, vintage furniture, and a courtyard full of cosy corners. A mix of pastel colours and indie aesthetics makes it a go-to spot for unique Instagram shots. Arabian Tea House (Al Fahidi) A place that transports you to old Dubai with its white and turquoise decor, traditional Emirati seating, and stunning courtyard setting. The tea trays, Arabic coffee, and Middle Eastern breakfast spreads make for a picture-perfect table shot. Forever Rose Café (Al Wasl) A one-of-a-kind café that looks like a black-and-white sketch come to life. The hand-drawn interior gives every photo a surreal, artistic touch. Even the tableware and chairs are designed to look like 2D illustrations, making it an absolute must-visit for unique Instagram shots. EL&N Dubai (Dubai Hills Mall) View this post on Instagram A post shared by EL&N LONDON (@elan_cafe) With its signature pink aesthetic, neon signs, and floral-covered walls, EL&N is one of the most glamorous cafes in Dubai. The drinks and desserts are designed to be photogenic, featuring bright colours, edible gold, and over-the-top presentation. Rooftop Views & Infinity Pools Dubai's skyline is best appreciated from above, and the city boasts some of the most breathtaking rooftop lounges and infinity pools in the world. These high-rise spots offer stunning cityscapes, luxurious settings, and unbeatable golden-hour shots. Aura Skypool (Palm Jumeirah) The world's highest 360-degree infinity pool, offering panoramic views of Dubai's skyline, the Arabian Gulf, and Palm Jumeirah. The water seamlessly blends into the horizon, making it one of the most surreal Instagram shots you can capture. Ce La Vi Dubai (Downtown) View this post on Instagram A post shared by CÉ LA VI Dubai (@celavidubai) A rooftop lounge that perfectly frames the Burj Khalifa, giving a cinematic backdrop for sunset shots. Whether posing with the infinity pool reflecting the skyscraper or capturing the city lights at night, this place guarantees picture-perfect moments. ZETA Seventy Seven (Address Beach Resort) Perched on the 77th floor, this infinity pool offers an uninterrupted view of the Arabian Gulf. The glass-like waters, plush sunbeds, and futuristic skyline make it one of the most exclusive and photogenic spots in Dubai. Dubai's rooftop lounges and infinity pools provide an unparalleled mix of luxury, exclusivity, and breathtaking scenery. The combination of water, height, and skyline reflections makes these spots ideal for capturing the city from a fresh perspective. Beyond its famous landmarks, Dubai hides one-of-a-kind locations that offer a completely different aesthetic. These spots bring a mix of history, art, and offbeat charm, perfect for Instagrammers looking for something beyond the usual tourist locations. Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Dubai (@ A glimpse into old Dubai, this district is filled with narrow alleys, wind towers, and traditional Arabian architecture. The beige-toned buildings, rustic doors, and lantern-lit courtyards make for an earthy, vintage-inspired photoshoot backdrop. The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah The largest dancing fountain in the world sits here, with Atlantis, The Palm providing an iconic background. The best shot? A waterfront sunset view with the fountain in full display, creating a dreamy reflection on the water. Dubai Miracle Garden With over 150 million flowers arranged into extravagant displays, this garden is a colorful wonderland. Floral tunnels, heart-shaped arches, and life-sized structures covered in blossoms make it a must-visit for vibrant, fairytale-like photography. City Walk A modern hub of street art, neon installations, and creative urban designs. The artistic backdrops here range from colorful graffiti walls to futuristic geometric patterns, making it a playground for bold and edgy photography. Dubai's hidden gems prove that Instagrammable locations aren't just about skyscrapers and beaches—there's beauty in the history, creativity, and surprises found in every corner of the city. Dubai is a photographer's paradise, a content creator's dream, and a traveler's visual playground. With futuristic skylines, pristine beaches, artistic cafes, and hidden gems, every location tells a story worth capturing. From the golden dunes of Al Marmoom to the mirrored elegance of the Museum of the Future, or the dreamy floral displays at Miracle Garden, Dubai offers limitless possibilities for the perfect shot. And with new attractions constantly emerging, there will always be another incredible location to explore and post. So, charge your camera, grab your best angles, and start filling your feed with some of the most Instagrammable places in Dubai. Your next viral post might just be a photo away! Also Read: 50 Most Instagrammable Places In The World 2021 - Big 7 Travel Whether you aim to capture the cultural allure, scenic beauty or mouthwatering food of a destination, this list has you in mind. Without further adieu, here are the most Instagrammable places in the world for 2021. Meta Introduces Instagram Feature to Reset Content Recommendations for a Fresh Start Initially aimed at teens but planned for global rollout, the feature will let users clear recommendations across Explore, Reels, and Feed. Instagram Introduces Trial Reels to Help Creators Test Content Instagram describes the feature as a way to 'take the guesswork out of how your content will perform.' Revamp Your Instagram Aesthetic with These Top Cafes in Dubai Visiting these cafes could be the solution to your barren Instagram feed.
