One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai

_Location: On Jumeirah Beach, a short cab ride from downtownDubai and the trendy marina area.

_{First impressions:} Dubai is known for its high-end andluxury hotels, and with this being my first trip to the emirate, expectationswere high. Resembling an Arabian palace, the beautiful One&Only RoyalMirage is as opulent as I’d hoped. As you walk through the doors, a member ofstaff strikes a huge suspended gong, informing the reception area and otheremployees of a new arrival.

_{The facts:} The sprawling property is divided into threeareas: Arabian Court, The Palace and The Residence. Combined, the hotel has 453rooms and suites, and eight restaurants. The Palace has four dining venues:Mediterranean option Olives; Moroccan food at Tagine; European cuisine atCelebrities (which also serves a buffet breakfast); and The Beach Bar &Grill. In the Arabian Court section you’ll find Indo-European cuisine in Nina;Middle Eastern and northern European-inspired fare at The Rotisserie; orthere’s the Asian-influenced Eauzone.The Dining Room is the only restaurantexclusively for the use of guests staying in The Residence.

_{A good base for:} A beach and city break combination. Theproperty lies on a kilometre-long private beach and is perfect for thoseseeking to relax in the intense heat. There are also three pools, one in eachsection of the hotel. Families should head to the nearby Aquaventure Waterparkat Atlantis The Palm, and if you book a suite you can use the cabanas on thebeach.

_Wow: Beachfront bar The Jetty Lounge is super cool. It hasan Ibiza-esque party vibe to it with good music, sofas on the beach, deliciouscocktails and perfect views of The Palm. From here you can also use the freeboat shuttle service across to sister property One&Only The Palm. Recommendyour clients make use of this option and book in a dinner or two at theneighbouring property – it’s much quicker than driving, plus you’ll feel likethe star of a Hollywood action movie.

_{Book it:}: From £307 per night

Hollie-Rae Brader