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The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- The Irish Sun
Inside Dubai's famous Atlantis The Palm with it's own aquarium, fine dining and world's largest waterpark
DRIVING into the five-star Atlantis, The Palm, set on the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, was breathtaking. The sprawling resort captures the mythical lost city of Atlantis theme, blended with beautiful Arabian elements. I really felt like I was entering another world. 9 Atlantis, The Palm has something for all the family Credit: COLLECT 9 Atlantis Aquaventure is the world's largest waterpark Credit: 9 The Dubai Balloon boasts the best views of the resort Credit: COLLECT 9 Atlantis has 34 world-renowned restaurants Credit: COLLECT When I walked into the exquisite lobby, I couldn't take my eyes off the grandeur and beauty of this magnificent resort. We were delighted to get an early VIP check in at 10am. The staff were very welcoming and spent time explaining all the facilities we could avail of on our stay. The magnificent aquarium, thrilling aquatic theme park, four swimming pools, beaches, a beach club, water sports, spa, the Dubai Balloon, Atlas Village, the AquaTrek Xtreme experience and 38 restaurants, lounges and bars - we were so excited for it all. As we walked into our Palm View Queen room we instantly felt a sense of excitement and adventure. I was drawn to the large windows overlooking the iconic Palm Jumeirah and the tranquil ocean beyond. The spacious room was elegantly decorated with touches of the undersea theme from gorgeous coral artwork to the shell-style mirror. And the elegant bath and walk-in shower were a major plus. Every time we arrived back to our room, there were little surprises from chocolate desserts to cute charger accessories added onto our phone cables. AQUAVENTURE WORLD The first thing we did was hit Aquaventure World, the world's largest aquatic theme park in the world as confirmed by Guinness World Records. Spanning over 22.5 hectares, this aquatic wonderland has over 105 slides, rides, and attractions. The River Rapids was the perfect way to take in the sights of the extensive aqua park. The Leap of Faith got my heart pounding as I plunged vertically down the slide - it was the size of a nine-story building. The world's tallest waterslide of its kind, The Odyssey of Terror, swept us up in all ways we could imagine. The Lost Chambers Aquarium, with over 65,000 marine animals, makes Atlantis a very special resort. We gazed at the vibrant colors and exotic species every chance we got. The mesmerising aquarium was the perfect place to unwind after all the excitement of the waterpark. AQUATREK One of the most unique experiences I have ever had was the AquaTrek Xtreme Experience. I wore a high-tech helmet that receives a continuous supply of air, allowing me to walk around the bottom of the aquarium breathing normally. As I wandered around the bottom of The Ambassador Lagoon, colourful fish, stingrays and even baby sharks swam by me. Aquarium onlookers waved in as I cautiously explored the undersea world. It was a surreal experience, swimming in the lost world of Atlantis. I was even given a trident for the ultimate underwater pic. The guided underwater tour surprisingly made me less nervous around strange fish and ginormous rays. Another first I tried during our stay was surfing. I did a lesson at the Surf's Up Waverider. My instructor guided me from lying on the body board to eventually standing up. As the waves kept crashing down, he gave me funny poses to master while riding the waves. I was very thankful to be learning how to ride the waves in the hot Dubai sun as it's certainly not as easy as it looks. A great way to take in the beauty of the resort is by kayak or paddle board. I jumped in a kayak and began my own little adventure. I ventured up and down the beaches, found myself people watching and even switched off. A FOODIES HAVEN After all our aqua adventures, we hit the Wavehouse for a much needed lunch. This vibrant spot was decked out with a funky interior, arcade games and swinging chairs. Another fun restaurant for a bite to eat was the electrifying Mexican restaurant En Fuego. The singers and dancers were just as spicy as the food. Dining at Ayamna Lebanese Restaurant was a feast for the senses. Indulging in endless dishes outside on the lantern-lit terrace was pure bliss. The dishes kept coming as we filled our bellies with some tasty Lebanese favourites including kebbeh mabroumeh (minced lamb) and baked spinach fatayer. And the Lebanese wine, Massaya Beqaa Valley, was divine. We were spoiled for choice when it came to breakfast. The buffets at Saffron and Kaleidoscope were on another level. They had all types of breakfast foods from all over the world. The chocolate fountain was a great option to set me up for a fun filled day. A major plus during our stay was that we had access to the exclusive Imperial Club Lounge. We could pop in for breakfast, all-day refreshments, afternoon tea and happy hour. On top of that, we had access to the private Imperial Club Beach. ATLANTIS, THE PALM HIGHLIGHTS As the first resort to open its doors on Dubai's revolutionary man-made island, in September 2008, Atlantis, The Palm is described as the gateway to Dubai. The resort spans 46 hectares and is home to 1,544 rooms and suites across 22 storeys. Guests can relax on the largest privately-owned beachfront in Dubai at over 2km. Atlantis, The Palm has 34 restaurants, lounges and bars, featuring seven by celebrity chefs including Nobu, FZN by Björn Frantzén, Studio Frantzén, Gordon Ramsay's Bread Street Kitchen and Street Pizza and two Michelin Star restaurants: Hakkasan, and underwater restaurant, Ossiano. Guests can enjoy fun and adventure at every turn, including the world's deepest Aquatrek experience, world-class marine educational experiences, and diving at night with 65,000 marine animals Adults and children alike can enjoy entertainment at every turn including bowling and gaming at Wavehouse, live music across all restaurants every night of the week and world-class concerts and events at the world-class beach club, WHITE Beach. RELAXATION My favourite place to unwind and catch some rays was WHITE Beach. The atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, and the chic boho look made it the perfect place for some holiday snaps. The staff always seemed to appear just at the right time for a refreshing cocktail or poolside snack. Dining at the beachfront White Restaurant was a treat. Lobster linguine, octopus, wagyu tenderloin, lamb chops, mushroom and truffle pasta... The food choices were endless. Another spot to catch some R&R is the AWAKEN Spa offered numerous massage therapies and treatments. For those who like to shop, the luxuriously colourful souk called The Avenues is the perfect place for some retail therapy. THE DUBAI BALLOON Taking a ride on The Dubai Balloon on Aquaventure Beach took our stay to new heights. We were given our 'flight' boarding pass and within a few minutes, we were suddenly floating high into the sky. The experience was perfectly timed and organised so smoothly, I'd no time to worry about my fear of heights. Ascending 300 meters above the ground, the breathtaking panoramic views of the Palm Jumeirah and the intriguing city of Dubai was amazing. Floating above the Dubai skyline really felt like a special moment for us. We stayed on that high all throughout our stay. The hospitality was impeccable, and every moment was carefully curated to ensure our visit was extraordinary. Thrilling water rides, captivating sea creatures, exquisite dining - Atlantis really does capture the perfect blend of luxury, thrills, relaxation, fine dining and magic moments. I'm dreaming of our next adventure in the majestic Atlantis, The Palm. GETTING THERE Plan your stay: GET THERE: Emirates. STAY THERE: Atlantis, The Palm Sept rates from €263 (1,130 AED). DO THERE: Aquaventure World, The Lost Chambers Aquarium, AquaTrek Xtreme, Dubai Balloon. EAT/DRINK THERE: Ayamna Lebanese Restaurant, WHITE Restaurant, En Fuego, Wavehouse. 9 There's a selection of watersports to choose from Credit: COLLECT 9 The waterparks sits on 22.5 hectares Credit: COLLECT 9 The resort is surrounded by the Arabian Sea Credit: COLLECT 9 Aquaventure has over 105 record-breaking slides Credit:
The Irish Sun
06-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
The Egyptian hidden gem built on 36 interlocked islands with 365 days of sunshine, turquoise waters & luxurious hotels
WITH golden beaches, turquoise water everywhere and 365 days of sunshine a year — it is unsurprising that Egypt is a paradise. El Gouna, dubbed the 'Venice of the Red Sea', was created just 36 years ago - and it offers everything you would imagine a 9 El Gouna is just 25 km from Hurghada Credit: Alamy 9 El Gouna is built on 36 interlocked islands Credit: COLLECT 9 The Steigenberger Golf Resort has 268 rooms Credit: Steigenberger Golf Resort Facebook 9 The Steigenberger Golf Resort boasts playful architecture Credit: COLLECT Built on 36 interlocked islands, surrounded by gorgeous lagoons, on 10km of sprawling beaches - this really was a world I'd never experienced before. Following a 40-minute drive from Hurghada Airport, we arrived at the intriguing gated city. I really felt like I stepped into a movie set in paradise, with the crystal clear waters, palm trees and charming pastel-coloured buildings. From the moment I arrived at the five-star Steigenberger Golf Resort, I was struck by the captivating views, alluring READ MORE IN TRAVEL On check-in, we were informed of the ambassador program in El Gouna's hotels. Each guest has a go-to staff member that will help with everything - from room service to booking tuk-tuks. Just a quick The enormous king-size bed, with plush linens, was incredibly snug. Most read in the Irish Sun One of my favourite features in the room was the balcony, which overlooked the resort's lush landscapes and the sparkling waters of the Red Sea. Each morning, sipping coffee while soaking in the stunning scenery became a cherished ritual. FINE FEAST The buffet at the Steigenberger Golf Resort had a diverse mix of options each morning and night. There was a nice balance between local Egyptian Every time I walked around the buffet I seemed to find more sections. I quickly discovered a new favourite dessert, basbousa – a kind of semolina cake – and I was spoiled for choice with the selection of cocktails. My favourite place to dine in the resort was Harumaki, El Gouna's only teppanyaki restaurant, where talented chefs dished up mouthwatering dishes right in front of us. DINE AROUND With many of the hotels in El Gouna teaming up together, guests have the opportunity to explore the 'Dine Around' options at other resorts, so you can experience life in each hotel. The packages entice guests to try different hotel buffets and restaurants at an all-inclusive, full-board or half-board rate. With 40 per cent of food in El Gouna sourced locally, there's over 100 restaurants to try. Dining at Cook's Club, Casa Cook and The Chedi added a fabulous twist to indulging in El Gouna's foodie scene. The resort boasted numerous facilities and activities for all the family. GETTING THINGS DONE Whether it was lounging by the pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or trying my hand at golf, there was never a dull moment. El Gouna's vast 18-hole championship golf course has attracted golfers from all over the world, and other fun activities nearby include banana boat rides, tube rides, parasailing and wakeboarding. Other fun activities nearby include banana boat rides, tube rides, parasailing and wakeboarding. 9 The gardens in the Steigenberger Golf Resort lead to secluded lagoon beaches Credit: COLLECT 9 Dani explored the Sahara Desert by quad Credit: COLLECT One of the highlights of the trip for me was the treasure hunt, which was not only fun but also a fantastic way to explore the town. From boat trips to kayak challenges, this hunt had our adrenaline pumping while we discovered all El Gouna has to offer. SAFARI ADVENTURE The town hosts an annual treasure hunt for visitors in October, while smaller hotel hunts take place throughout the year. Another thrilling excursion for me was a desert trip with Alex Safari where we learned all about the Bedouin families that live in the Red Sea Mountains. We sped across the Sahara Desert on dune buggies and quad bikes until a magnificent sun set stopped us in our tracks. El Gouna encourages tourists to enjoy all the hotels have to offer - so that's exactly what I did. ADULT-ONLY RESORT An afternoon in the adults-only resort The desert-style oasis boasted gorgeous suites, poolside bars and panoramic views of the Red Sea. I was blown away with my first kitesurfing lesson at Casa Cook's onsite Duotone kite centre. Then it was time to unwind in the Beach Club, where the DJ played the perfect sunset chill-out tunes. Egypt's first-and-only Leading Hotel of the World, PRIVATE BEACH BLISS Unwinding on the private beach and by the tropical-style pools was pure bliss. Sipping a cocktail as the sun went down at the award-winning rooftop speciality sushi restaurant Nihon was the perfect way to end the day. Couples will also love the adult-only With its own private saltwater lagoon, beach and jetty, it's the perfect spot for some water fun. Top activities include yoga classes, kitesurfing, windsurfing, snorkelling, scuba diving and horse riding. There are lots of luxurious and affordable places to stay among Orascom's 18 hotels. SAFE AND SOUND I felt extremely safe walking around the gated community of El Gouna. A great way to explore is by bike and the Baddel app makes it effortless to rent a bike. What I loved most about the area was the pastel colour scheme of pinks, reds, oranges, yellows and earthy tones that all buildings must adhere to. As one of the most sustainable spots in Africa, El Gouna has a dedicated solar plant providing a significant portion of the town's energy needs. SUSTAINABLILITY EFFORTS The town has a zero-waste system, meaning over 85 per cent of all waste is reused and recycled. It also recycles 100 per cent of its water via its onsite management plant. Their commitment to sustainability is seen throughout from bamboo straws in bars to their eco-friendly transport. And the best way to get around is by tuk-tuk, which always costs 80 cent no matter the distance. GO: EL GOUNA, EGYPT GET THERE: We flew to STAY THERE: Live in luxury at the 5 H DO THERE: Lagoon boat trips, desert trip and kite surfing are all so much fun, and try the scavanger hunt. The Mega EAT THERE: Try the I loved strolling around Abu Tig Marina - lined with impressive yachts and bustling restaurants. Fanadir Marina and Abydos Marina were perfect spots to catch some rays while people-watching. While exploring the marinas, I learned about The El Gouna Float Fest with boat parties, live DJs, and gigs - and I will definitely be returning to sample that. BAZAAR BUZZ For those who love to shop, there's plenty of boutiques and bazaars dotted around. Egyptian House has a selection of homemade items and gifts which help support local women. A must-see is the El Gouna Conference and Culture Centre with its striking archways set against the backdrop of neighbouring mountains and nearby traditional-style homes. This captivating space, that's perfect for selfies, hosts Egyptian and multinational events. I now understand El Gouna's official motto, 'You will never want to leave', and have proudly become a 'gounie'. 9 Alex Safari has a selection of amazing tours Credit: COLLECT 9 El Gouna experiences warm weather year round Credit: Alamy 9 Orascom has 18 hotels throughout El Gouna Credit:
The Irish Sun
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
I transformed into mermaid for a day at Ireland's only live experience – here's how little ones can too
WITH childhood memories of seeing mermaids in Orlando, I never pictured myself putting on a tail. Here is how I transformed into a mermaid for the day at Ireland's first and only live mermaid experience. Advertisement 7 The facility hosts mermaid live shows, pop-in visits, birthdays and swimming classes Credit: 7 Little ones can get pampered in the glam zone or try a mermaid swim lesson Credit: 7 We dove into the action at MerMazing Mermaids Credit: COLLECT Walking into the undersea world at MerMazing Mermaids in Puddenhill, My eyes were drawn to the custom-built aquarium style pool with viewing windows. I was whisked into a changing room where I squeezed myself into the tightest tail. Next, it was time to add the heavy, rubber-like mermaid fin. Advertisement READ MORE IN FABULOUS After a quick transformation, I wobbled my way to the pool's edge. I was thrown right into the deep end and learned how to I got used to having the tail very fast but swimming down low was my biggest challenge. I pushed myself down as low as I could go, kept arms by my sides and focused on exaggerated movements. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous Exclusive Exclusive After countless attempts, I finally got down deep and felt the tail gliding through the water. Instructor and owner Lynn Harvey admitted becoming a 'mermaid is harder than it looks' - and I certainly agree. I'm a professional mermaid - I used to be afraid of water but now I wear a $5k to perform with stars & make $8k per show She said: 'A girl could be the most fantastic swimmer but if she cannot perform in the window and you cannot connect through the glass it's not going to work here. So she might be work on that. 'Some of them are fantastic in the window but they haven't got the body movements. Advertisement 'But there's not many people that I couldn't train. I'd know in 10 minutes whether they could be trained or not. 'Some of them I could nearly have them ready in two weeks. Others it just might take a few weeks. It honestly depends on the girl.' AUDITIONS Last month, 20 hopeful mermaids-to-be applied to audition to be part of the MerMazing show. Lynn said: 'About 20 people applied and about eight of them just decided 'oh god I can't do it' and backed out of it there and then. Advertisement 'I think I called in six or eight of them who I thought maybe had some potential. So that was out of 20." Some of the auditionees admitted the "reality" of being a mermaid "was a bit too much". Lyn continued: 'So it's really not for everyone because it's so daunting. They're doing this thing that looks great in a video but it's harder. 'I've had girls that come in and they pick it up straight away and I know on session one that they're going to get it. Advertisement 'There's other girls take a little bit longer. There's other girls that have the movement but they're not good in the window and their face can't settle.' ALL IN The facility welcomes 60 guests per show while mermaids greet the audience with balloons and slushies. She said: 'I was scrolling on Instagram and a video came up of a mermaid in a window, very like my pool. And I said that's it and I started researching the next morning.' Advertisement The former professional boxer explained that once she has an idea, she goes all in. Lynn began swim training so she could train how to swim as a mermaid. She said: 'I started training I'd say within three months, my actual swim training. 'Then becoming qualified as a mermaid instructor was probably three months. Advertisement 'Then I started business courses and marketing courses. I did so many courses back to back.' Lynn added: 'I just wanted something new to sink my teeth into, something outside the box.' THE EXPERIENCE After keeping her new biz on the down low for two years, MerMazing Mermaids was finally launched. As well as the mermaid live shows, pop-in visits and birthdays, Lynn and the team recently hosted a free show for senior citizens from local nursing homes. Advertisement The Ballybrack woman said: 'This was a massive success; they had a ball watching our mermaids. 'They met them, sang and danced with them and got photos with them. It was a very moving and an emotional experience for the elderly residents and all of our staff. 'So much so that we had a meeting and decided to volunteer our time and services to host the next event free of charge. 'We aim to do some of these complimentary gigs a few times a year.' Advertisement Little ones can also try out the mermaid swim lessons on Sunday mornings with a qualified swim coach and lifeguard. Or for those who prefer land, enjoy mermaid chats while getting pampered in the glam zone. To find out more see . 7 MerMazing Mermaids is located in Puddenhill, Meath Credit: MerMazing Mermaids 7 The mermaids perform and interact with the children Credit: MerMazing Mermaids Advertisement 7 The 'MerMazing' experience is unforgettable Credit: COLLECT 7 There's a selection of events that little ones can enjoy Credit: COLLECT
The Irish Sun
14-05-2025
- The Irish Sun
Major airport favourite gets glow up with tasty food, premium drinks and the best plane spotting views
AVIATION lovers are set to love this busy spot for delicious food, buzzing atmosphere and the best plane spotting views. Less than an hour from 7 Hook & Ladder at Weston Airport has been revamped Credit: COLLECT 7 Diners can enjoy breakfast, brunch and lunch while watching planes land and take off Credit: COLLECT 7 The Hook & Ladder restaurant makes the perfect day out for all the family 7 The new look restaurant is bustling with visitors Credit: The newly revamped Birthday celebrations, friend groups and aviation enthusiasts chattered over food. The new look restaurant boasted a modern Great Gatsby look with cosy cushioned booths, chic lighting, marble flooring and a sleek bar. As soon as my eyes were drawn to a statement clock in the body of an aeroplane, I knew this was the spot for me. READ MORE ON TRAVEL This busy airport is a hive of activity with planes and helicopters hitting the runway as visitors indulge in tasty dishes. The award-winning Irish family-run eatery had a selection of mouth-watering options on the brunch menu from 13.95. From the Mother Clucker, a crispy buttermilk chicken breast, to the Biscoff French Toast, I was torn for choice. The Ampersand Eggs with beet hummus and mashed avocado did not disappoint. Most read in News Travel Breakfast options include Buttermilk Blueberry Pancakes, Homemade Granola and the Chicken & Waffle Stack. While the lunch menu boasts the Fireman's Chicken Curry, Ballycotton Smoked Salmon and the Weston Club Sandwich. Emotional scenes as Irish Lebanon peacekeepers arrive home in Dublin Airport Those with a sweet tooth will love the scrumptious section of home baked cakes from their in store bakery. Airport officials said there are great photo opportunities. They said: 'Dublin Weston Airport is an ideal location for 'Our new From flying clubs to air displays to A unique charity event, Run the Runway, was held at the airport last month where participants could run or walk 3k or 5k along the iconic runway. The National Flight Centre pilot academy, which has operated at Dublin Weston Airport since 1977, is now in the process of a full fleet renewal. This historic airport was established by Darby Kennedy in 1931. Over close to a century, Dublin Weston Airport has undergone many additions and enhancements, including a tarmac runway, new control tower, hangers, VOR and a terminal building. In 2021, the airport was bought by a consortium of aviation enthusiasts. A full modernisation of the airport security infrastructure has taken place with over €3m invested. For more information and make a booking visit 7 It's the perfect place for plane spotting Credit: COLLECT 7 The airport has numerous aircrafts landing and taking off Credit: COLLECT 7 A charity event was held at the airport last month Credit: Facebook
The Irish Sun
09-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Irish Sun
I tested rich tea biscuits from Dunnes, Lidl & Aldi – the winner is €1.95 cheaper than real deal & great with cuppa
NOTHING beats dunking a biscuit into to a pipping hot tea at the end of the day The debate is ongoing over the nation's favourite biscuits to see which one is best for dunking. Advertisement 3 We put four rich tea biscuits to the test Credit: COLLECT 3 They all had a similar blue packaging but different prices Credit: COLLECT 3 Aldi was the winning biscuit for me Credit: COLLECT With so many rich tea options on the market, we decided to test a popular brand and some Popular brands like McVitie's can set shoppers back around €2.49, while own-brands start from a bargain 54 cent. I tested four popular rich tea biscuits, all in similar blue packets. Firstly, I dunked for 15 seconds but found myself scrambling to taste them before they broke. Advertisement READ MORE ON MONEY To make the test a fair result, I then switched to 10 seconds. Here's which biscuits were a big success, and which ones were a flop. The original McVitie's Rich Tea Biscuits melted fast but did not disappoint. These classic biccies seem to have the perfect balance between sweetness. Advertisement Most read in Money These branded biscuits consisted of wheat flour, sugar, vegetable oil, glucose-fructose syrup, barley malt extract, raising agents and salt. A classic treat that won't let anyone down. Man Utd hardman Roy Keane and Sky Sports presenter blind rank BISCUITS before Ruben Amorim's first match_1 You do pay a Taste test after 10 second dunk: 4/5 Advertisement Value for money: 3.5/5 Dunnes Stores After a 10 second dunk, these biscuits melted just like the originals. Crunching on these biscuits, they were everything I expected. Advertisement Feeling lighter than others, I could see myself reaching for more and more of these. The retailer said: 'Crispy plain biscuits. Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives. 'Free from hydrogenated fat. Suitable for vegetarians.' These own brand biscuits cost a bargain 70 cent. Advertisement Taste test after 10 second dunk: 3.5/5 Value for money: 4/5 Lidl Lidl fans are treated to a larger rich tea biscuit, compared to the original. The Tower Gate brand has a similar look to the rest but has a smoother finish. Advertisement After the 10 second dip test, these biscuits gave a little crunch. For me, they tasted less sweet and almost had a hint of ginger. But they are made up of wheat flour, sugar, palm oil and invert sugar syrup. The popular Lidl rich tea treats cost only 54 cent. Advertisement Taste test after 10 second dunk: 3/5 Value for money: 5/5 Aldi Much to my surprise Aldi rich tea biscuits were crowned the winner. These were larger than the originals and has a smooth finish. Advertisement After the 10 second dunk, these biscuits had a nice mix of crunch and the biscuit structure didn't fall apart. Although smaller than the original, they felt crunchier and crispier as I munched away. Best of all these were the cheapest biscuits I tested at a bargain 54 cent. Taste test after 10 second dunk: 5/5 Advertisement Value for money: 5/5
