Known for being one of the most luxurious hotels in the world and often regarded as the first 7-star hotel, the Burj Al Arab in Dubai is a site to see. The hotel was built on a triangular man-made island resembling a billowing sail, which makes it an iconic symbol of modern Dubai. The hotel rises over 1050ft and has the tallest lobby and atrium in the world designed with gold-leaf interiors. The Burj Al Arab sets a completely new standard for luxury hotels; all rooms are incredible suites spanning two floors with state-of-the-art appliances (such as gold-plated Ipad’s) and over-the-top amenities such as a heliport, hovering tennis courts and 24/7 personal on call butlers. This magnificent destination pushes boundaries and offers as vast array of nightlife options and futuristic upscale dining experiences.
I had read exceptional reviews on one restaurant in particular, Nathan Outlaw At Al Mahara and decided to make reservations prior to arriving in Dubai. As I arrived at the Burj Al Arab, there was a fleet of Rolls-Royce Phantoms lined up along the hotel. I quickly learned the Burj Al Arab has the worlds largest chauffeur-driven fleet of Rolls Royce’s as guests have the option of arriving at the hotel either by luxury car service or dedicated helicopter transfer service. The hotel had one of the most impressive lobbies, with rich interior colors, 24-carat gold leaf pillars and vibrant aquariums, home to over four thousand fish, located right next to the escalators. This is luxury personified and something one could only imagine!
After stopping to admire the incredible décor present throughout the lobby and atrium, I made my way to the restaurant I had so eagerly wanted to try; Nathan Outlaws Al Mahara. This was by far one of the most incredible restaurants I have seen and truly offers a sensory experience from the moment you step foot inside the golden elevator. The experience starts with a simulated submarine ride from the reception area to the dining room. Al Mahara, translated from Arabic means oyster shell and upon entering the dining room, you will see a lavish gold oyster shell and the restaurants centerpiece, a cylindrical floor-to-ceiling aquarium. If you reserve ahead of time, you can request a table next to the glass tank filled with sea life. As we were escorted to our table, I was completely mesmerized by the aquarium filled with colorful fish, coral, stingrays and even sharks. At first, I was too thoroughly transfixed by the ethereal view of the aquarium to even notice the menu. The longer I stared at the aquarium, the more sea life I saw. As the waiter returned to take our drink orders, he explained to us the variety of sea life the lives in the tank. He was incredibly knowledgeable and believe it or not, I learned about a new species of shark (the guitar shark) before the appetizers even arrived. It takes a team of seven to maintain the enormous tank, including the expertise of a full-time marine biologist.
