KDH: My Last Arabian Adventure~ Photo Diary of The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort!

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A view of the hotel from the water where dolphins frolic along the coastline in the early mornings.

To really get the most out of a trip to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, you need to plan a “Sea & Sand” experience. The “Sand” part is a desert adventure which I shared in my Banyan Tree Al Wadi feature, and below I share the “Sea” portion of my trip which was spent at the recently opened St. Regis Saadiyat Island.

The iconic St. Regis brand has extended its legacy to Abu Dhabi with the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort located on the pristine beaches of Saadiyat Island, which is also a short drive from Dubai. Oh, you don’t feel like driving? No problem, they offer a chauffeur pick-up in one of the hotel’s Bentleys. The design of  the resort is a thoughtful combination of Mediterranean architecture and a contemporary interior design offering sumptuous suites which overlook the sea, offering early morning views of the island’s resident dolphins [who knew even dolphins covet luxury] or the impressive 18-hole ocean front Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, designed by the golfing legend, Gary Player.

Being a longtime lover of the St. Regis in Manhattan, I was curious to see how the brand would translate in the Middle East and we absolutely loved our experience. The brunches, spa treatments, service, golfing, and dinner at 55th & 5th [a nod to the NYC address] were all totally top notch. Keeping with St. Regis tradition, the Saadiyat Island resort offers their own special Bloody Mary made with rare local spices added~ delish!

Here’s my KDH Photo Diary from our stay, I had to include lots of brunch photos because I have never seen such a beautiful buffet….and I am food obsessed:

 

My sister and I took her son to pick up daddy at work for our trip. How pretty is that office view?!
The hotel property is stunning.
We are welcomed with customary coffee and dates.
We check out the views....The authentic Thai restaurant sits on top of a pool facing the sea.

 

Time for brunch! WOW...Endless types of cuisine keep guests grazing around the buffet!
The St. Regis Saadiyat signature Bloody Mary has a secret spice that can't be shared~ I tried!

 

My carb fantasy table.....
Les amuses bouches.

 

Uhh, should they put a warning sign on this oyster buffet?

 

It was fun to sample the traditional Middle Eastern cuisine.
For this dish guests eat a bite of the spicy vegetarian pastry tart, followed by a sweet spray of the pomegranate juice afterwards.

 

Hellooo divine desserts....

 

...and hello to you chocolate fondue fountain! I'm diving in...

 

Kim hit the links with Steve for some exercise~ nice form sis!
KDH volunteered for target practice with my godson at the kids club (and yes, I cropped my drenched self out of this photo).
It’s Spa Time!!

One of the most exclusive spas in Abu Dhabi, the serene atmosphere of the Iridium spa coupled with internationally-acclaimed treatments is ideal for a total mind, body and spirit rejuvenation experience. Blending traditional remedies with modern technologies, the tailored treatments can be enjoyed in any of the 12 treatment suites. For a more intimate and exclusive experience, guests can choose to receive treatments in one of three themed Spa Suites with private terraces and pools.

Ahhhh, can't wait to end the afternoon at the tranquil spa....

 

We both loved our massages.

 

One of the pretty treatment rooms.
Time for a quick float in the pool after the spa.
Off to dinner at 55th & 5th for a fab petite filet. Can I really eat another meal?

 

We head back to our suite for a great night's sleep...

 

**To book your own seaside escape at the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, please go to http://www.stregissaadiyatisland.com/