Exploring Dubai: Tips, Tricks, and Must-Visit Attractions

Jasmin Kaur • 14 August 2024

Dubai, the dazzling gem of the UAE, is a city that never fails to impress. With its towering skyscrapers, luxurious shopping malls, vibrant culture, and endless entertainment options, Dubai offers something for every traveler. One of the city's most iconic destinations is Atlantis, The Palm, especially renowned for its underwater suites that promise an unforgettable stay. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your trip to Dubai, with a special spotlight on the luxurious Atlantis, The Palm.


Tips and Tricks for Visiting Dubai

Best Time to Visit: Dubai's climate is characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The ideal time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. This period is also packed with events and festivals, adding to the city's vibrant atmosphere.


Getting Around: Dubai has an efficient public transport system, including the Dubai Metro, which is a convenient and cost-effective way to get around the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are also readily available. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, renting a car is a good option, with well-maintained roads and clear signage.


Currency: The UAE Dirham (AED) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for small purchases, tips, and in places where cards might not be accepted, like traditional souks.


A large white castle with a tower on top of it

Adventure & Activity Trips Must-Visit Attractions in Dubai

Burj Khalifa: The world’s tallest building is a must-see. The observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors offer panoramic views of the city, the desert, and the Persian Gulf. Time your visit for sunset to witness a spectacular transition from day to night.


Dubai Mall: Adjacent to the Burj Khalifa, this sprawling shopping paradise features over 1,200 stores, an ice rink, an indoor waterfall, and the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.


Dubai Marina: This modern waterfront area is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the promenade, dining at trendy restaurants, and taking a boat tour. The marina's skyline is particularly stunning at night.


Jumeirah Beach: With its soft white sands and clear blue waters, Jumeirah Beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The iconic Burj Al Arab, the world’s only 7-star hotel, provides a stunning backdrop.


Desert Safari: No trip to Dubai is complete without experiencing a desert safari. Enjoy dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, camel rides, sandboarding, and a traditional Bedouin camp dinner complete with belly dancing and henna painting.


Spotlight on Atlantis, The Palm

.Atlantis, The Palm is a luxurious resort located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island that resembles a palm tree from above. This world-renowned resort offers a variety of experiences, from aquatic adventures to fine dining, but the highlight is undoubtedly its underwater suites.


building in dubai

The underwater suites experience

Staying in one of Atlantis, The Palm's underwater suites is like entering an enchanting underwater kingdom. Here’s what makes this experience truly magical:

Luxurious Accommodation: The Neptune and Poseidon underwater suites are spread over three floors and feature floor-to-ceiling windows that offer mesmerising views of the Ambassador Lagoon aquarium.


Exclusive Services: Guests in the underwater suites enjoy 24-hour private butler service, ensuring that every need is catered to with impeccable attention. The suites also come with a complimentary breakfast, luxury airport transfers, and exclusive access to the resort’s private beach.


Aquarium Access: As an underwater suite guest, you’ll have unlimited access to The Lost Chambers Aquarium, home to over 65,000 marine animals. The aquarium is designed to resemble the lost city of Atlantis, offering a fascinating journey through underwater tunnels and chambers.


Dining: Atlantis, The Palm boasts an impressive array of dining options. For an exceptional experience, dine at Ossiano, an underwater restaurant where you can enjoy gourmet dishes while watching marine life through the large windows. It’s a dining experience like no other.



Activities: The resort offers a plethora of activities to suit all interests. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the Aquaventure Waterpark, one of the largest in the world, while animal lovers can interact with dolphins and sea lions at Dolphin Bay and Sea Lion Point. For those seeking relaxation, the ShuiQi Spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments.

building in dubai

Whether you want to explore a new city or new culture, Dubai is sure to have something for everyone!

The Most Magical Christmas Markets in Europe for 2026

by Leonor Resende • 30 July 2026
The Most Magical Christmas Markets in Europe for 2026 As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, some of Europe's most beautiful cities transform into festive wonderlands. Historic squares glow beneath thousands of twinkling lights, the scent of cinnamon and roasted chestnuts fills the streets, and Christmas music drifts through centuries-old buildings. Imagine wandering through charming market stalls with a warm mulled wine in hand, discovering handmade gifts, tasting local festive treats, and watching sparkling lights reflect off cobbled streets. It's the kind of experience that makes you slow down, soak up the atmosphere, and truly embrace the magic of the season. Whether you're dreaming of a romantic winter escape, a festive family getaway, or simply looking for a destination that feels like it's stepped straight out of a Christmas film, these Christmas markets offer unforgettable memories and plenty of festive cheer. From the fairy-tale streets of Prague to the grand squares of Vienna and the enchanting markets of Strasbourg, here are the Christmas markets you won't want to miss in 2026.
world europa sailing the sea

Discover The Best MSC Cruise Deals for the Best Holiday Ever

by Elizabeth Leonard • 26 June 2026
Save on MSC Cruises with €1 flights, free upgrades, reduced deposits and exclusive Yacht Club perks. Explore 2026–2028 sailings and book now.

Why Cape Verde Should Be Your Next Winter Sun Escape

by Leonor Resende • 24 June 2026
Imagine swapping grey skies and chilly mornings for golden beaches, warm sunshine, and the sound of the Atlantic Ocean just steps away. If you're looking for a destination that combines year-round sunshine, stunning coastal scenery, and a laid-back atmosphere, Cape Verde could be exactly what you've been searching for.  Located off the coast of West Africa, this beautiful island nation has quickly become one of the most sought-after holiday destinations for travellers looking to relax, recharge, and enjoy a little slice of paradise. But beyond the beautiful beaches lies a destination full of culture, adventure, unique experiences, and unforgettable memories waiting to be made. Whether you're dreaming of lazy days by the sea, exploring volcanic landscapes, discovering local traditions, or simply escaping everyday life for a week of sunshine, Cape Verde offers the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.

5 Reasons More People Are Choosing Cruises

by Leonor Resende • 22 June 2026
For many travellers, a cruise is no longer just a holiday, it's an experience that combines multiple destinations, exceptional value, world-class entertainment, and the convenience of unpacking only once. Whether you're dreaming of exploring the Mediterranean, discovering the Norwegian Fjords, soaking up the Caribbean sunshine, or experiencing iconic cities along the way, cruising offers a unique way to see the world.  Over the past few years, more and more Irish travellers have discovered the benefits of cruising, making it one of the fastest-growing holiday choices. Modern cruise ships are designed to cater to every type of traveller, offering everything from fine dining and luxurious spas to family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and unforgettable shore excursions. If you've never considered a cruise before, or you're wondering why so many people book cruise holidays year after year, here are five reasons why cruising could be the perfect choice for your next adventure.
riviera rose new ship

Riviera Travel’s New Ships

by Elizabeth Leonard • 6 May 2026
Riviera Travel’s New River Cruise Ships A Fresh Take on European River Cruising If you’ve been looking into European river cruises recently, chances are you’ve come across Riviera Travel — and for good reason. They’ve built a strong reputation for delivering well planned itineraries, beautiful ships, and an easy, relaxed way to explore Europe. And now, with the introduction of their newest Riviera Travel river cruise ships, that experience feels even more refined. The latest additions to the fleet — MS Riviera Radiance and MS Riviera Rose — mark an exciting new chapter, with MS Riviera Resplendence and MS Riviera Reflection set to follow. Together, they represent a thoughtful evolution of Riviera’s river cruising experience in Europe, bringing a fresh, modern feel onboard while staying true to what makes their journeys so popular. One of the first things you’ll notice is the design. The interiors feel bright, elegant, and contemporary, with a real attention to detail throughout. There’s a sense of space in the main lounge, with panoramic windows designed to make the most of the views, while the dining areas feel refined yet relaxed — somewhere you’ll genuinely look forward to spending time each evening. The cabins are just as impressive. Many feature French balconies, allowing you to fully enjoy the ever changing scenery on a Danube river cruise, a Rhine river cruise, or even a journey along the Douro River cruise route. You’ll also find thoughtful touches like comfortable seating areas, well designed bathrooms, and clever storage that makes settling in feel effortless from the start. Onboard, the layout has clearly been designed with comfort in mind. There are inviting social spaces for a drink or a coffee during the day, as well as quieter corners if you want to unwind with a book or simply watch the scenery pass by. The sun deck is another highlight — an ideal spot to take in the views as you sail through some of Europe’s most scenic stretches.

Ordinary on the Map, Unforgettable in Real Life

by Leonor Resende • 23 April 2026
Not every place makes a good first impression. Some destinations look quiet on the map, unremarkable in photos, and easy to overlook when compared to Europe’s better‑known cities and regions. They don’t promise instant wonder or dramatic scenery, they don’t shout for attention, in fact, they can seem so familiar that you wonder whether they’re worth the trip at all. And yet, these are often the places that surprise us the most. Once you arrive, expectations begin to fall away. You stop searching for highlights and start noticing moments instead: the rhythm of daily life, the way people interact with their surroundings, how time feels different when nothing is urging you forward. Slowly, almost without realising it, the place begins to matter. This is the kind of travel that doesn’t reveal itself all at once, it unfolds through small details, unplanned pauses, and experiences that don’t always fit neatly into an itinerary. By the time you leave, you understand something important: the places that felt ordinary before the trip are often the ones that stay with you longest afterward. Europe is full of destinations like this, quiet, understated places that reward curiosity rather than expectation. These are some of them.
blue danube river

Discover Riviera Travel River Cruises: Itineraries, Excursions & Current Offers

by Elizabeth Leonard • 21 April 2026
Explore Riviera Travel river cruise itineraries across the Danube, Rhine, Seine and Douro, with curated excursions and immersive experiences. Now with €99 deposits, 10% off 2027–2028 sailings and limited-time savings on selected 2026 cruises.

Travel the World’s Biggest Music Festivals

by Leonor Resende • 14 April 2026
At their core, music festivals are more than live performances or carefully curated line‑ups. They are cultural gatherings, temporary communities where locals and travellers come together in shared spaces shaped by creativity, tradition, and emotion. For a few days or weeks, familiar landscapes are transformed, and in that transformation a place reveals how it celebrates, how it communicates, and how it welcomes outsiders.  These moments go beyond what happens on stage. Festivals unfold within real places, not isolated bubbles, and they carry the imprint of their surroundings. The food reflects regional traditions, the rhythms of daily life seep into the schedule, and local values are expressed through art, design, and the way people interact. Whether set in countryside fields, historic cities, or coastal neighbourhoods, festivals offer travellers an unusually intimate way to experience a destination. This is what makes music festivals such compelling entry points for cultural travel. They encourage movement without urgency, discovery without a checklist, and connection without preconception. Rather than following an itinerary, travellers follow a feeling, allowing sound, place, and human connection to shape the journey. In these moments, travel becomes less about where you go next, and more about how deeply you experience where you are.

The Ultimate Malta travel guide: Top Attractions & Hidden Gems

by Kelly Collins • 1 April 2026
Malta is one of those places that completely catches you off guard, in the best ways imaginable. For such a tiny island nation, it packs more beauty, history and “wait, why does nobody talk about this?!” moments than seems fair. One minute you're wandering through golden stone streets that look straight out of a period drama, and the next you're floating in shockingly blue water, wondering why it isn't illegal for the sea to look that good. It’s the kind of destination where the big attractions blow your way, but the hidden corners are what quietly steal your heart This guide is here to walk you through Malta the way a fellow traveller would, with honest insight, friendly advice and all the info you need to make your trip effortless and unforgettable

Find Your Perfect Holiday Based on Your Personality

by Leonor Resende • 27 March 2026
Choosing a holiday is more than deciding on a place to visit, it’s choosing the version of yourself you want to step into for a little while. Some people come alive on high mountain trails, others find their joy floating in warm turquoise seas. Some feel energised exploring new cultures, while others crave nothing more than sunshine, good food and the simple luxury of slowing down. Travel isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all. It’s personal. It’s emotional. It’s a reflection of you. And that’s why the best holidays aren’t picked at random, they’re chosen by discovering what kind of traveller you truly are. Are you the adventurer? The luxury seeker? The family memory‑maker? The culture lover? Or the dreamer ready to explore a far‑flung corner of the world? When you match your personality to the right holiday style, something magical happens: the anticipation grows, the excitement builds, and suddenly the journey feels like it’s already begun. So let’s dive in. Let’s explore the escape that suits your spirit, the holiday that feels like it was created with you in mind. Your perfect match is waiting…and it might just surprise you.