Discovering an enchanting Airbnb while browsing travel options online brought immense joy. Dubai has been a frequent destination on my travel list, typically opting for hotels. However, for my father’s birthday, I sought a unique experience.
Accessibility to downtown Dubai was key, and having views of the Burj Khalifa was a priority. The Lofts West Tower on Airbnb, a mere 7-minute walk from Dubai Mall and a 24×7 convenience store at its doorstep, was the perfect fit. Its location struck a balance between local life and proximity to tourist hotspots, making it an ideal choice. The apartment’s outstanding Super Host rating and glowing reviews sealed the deal, compelling me to swiftly book this luxurious space
CHECK IN
The host welcomed us warmly, giving a brief tour of the apartment and sharing fantastic local dining recommendations. Stepping into the Dubai apartment, the spacious living room bathed in natural light immediately captivated me. While the online images were enticing, experiencing this extraordinary space in person surpassed all expectations. The smartly designed kitchen chairs, which had intrigued me online, were even more captivating in reality. The residence features two and a half luxurious bathrooms, a kitchen with stainless steel appliances, but the allure of nearby authentic Mezze and Grills made cooking feel unnecessary. Two elegant bedrooms with spacious closets, a vibrant dining room, and access to two balconies completed the enchanting setting. Every morning, sipping tea in this serene oasis offered breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa. Given my father’s profession as a Chef, we had exciting dinner plans, and he was thoroughly impressed by our choice
THE BEST OF PERSIA
We dined at Ariana’s Persian Kitchen, a popular choice among Atlantis Royal hotel guests. The menu, divided into cold mezze, hot mezze, mains, and grills, embraced a sharing concept, making ordering a collaborative and enjoyable affair. Our culinary journey began with a refreshing Iranian palate cleanser—walnuts and salt—awakening our senses. The Mast O Khair, blending yoghurt, rose petals, pistachios, and cucumber, shone among the cold and hot mezze, offering a vibrant start. The Original Sambusek, with its pistachioinfused savory richness, paid homage to Iran’s culinary legacy, accompanied by a sauce adding a delightful complexity. The mains featured the flavorful Fesenjoon, a chicken stew rich in walnut and pomegranate flavors, alongside vibrant Jewelled Rice. The standout Kabab Koobideh showcased the best of Persian cuisine. To conclude, the Wild Orchid Ice Cream with wafers, pistachio, and saffron provided a delightful sweet ending.
IMAGINARY FUTURE
The birthday dinner at Krasota in Dubai was an immersive journey into a world where culinary innovation meets artistic expression. Their latest production, ‘Imaginary Future,’ blended storytelling, visual arts, and AI technology, offering a captivating experience of what tomorrow may bring. The mesmerizing visual acts projected on curved walls showcased space exploration, future gastronomy, cyberpunk themes, and oceanic adventures. The seven-course meal, meticulously curated by Chef Vladmir Mukhin, complemented each act, pushing the boundaries of imagination and culinary norms. This extraordinary evening sparked contemplation about the evolving future of food, merging artistry and gastronomy in a truly unforgettable way. Krasota Dubai continues to redefine fine dining with their visionary approach, leaving an indelible mark of creativity and imagination
LANA LUSA
Lana Lusa in Dubai was a delightful Portuguese escape that captivated both our taste buds and spirits. The ambiance, reminiscent of Lisbon’s cobblestone streets, immersed us in an authentic and nostalgic setting. The menu beautifully reinvented iconic Portuguese flavors with a modern twist, offering a symphony of textures and tastes in each dish. From the flavorful prawns in garlic butter to the enticing Grilled Chicken with fragrant olive oil, every bite was a delight. The heavenly Pastel de Nata was a standout, evoking memories of Lisbon’s streets. The attentive staff further elevated our experience, making Lana Lusa a true culinary gem for exploring Portugal’s vibrant cuisine. Returning to our Airbnb after exploring Dubai’s malls and diverse neighbourhoods added a distinct charm to our journey, completing each day with the essence that makes Dubai so cherished.
Akanksha Dean is a zealous enthusiast of the nomadic way of life. She is the first and only Indian to have trained at 3 Michelin star Osteria Francescana (In the Best of The Best List) and loves to share her food and travel stories.