Birthday Glamping at Damani Lodges in Hatta

I’d been eyeing Damani Lodges for years, and this October, I couldn’t really plan a birthday getaway due to my daily infusions. But after my doctor advised me on my infusion schedule, I was thrilled to learn I could finally go on a weekend trip. After spending so much time between home and the hospital, the chance to travel outside felt like a gift in itself. This birthday, I knew exactly where I wanted to go—and Damani Lodges, with its breathtaking views of Hatta’s rugged mountains, turned out to be the perfect escape.

Arrival: The Drive to Tranquility

Getting to Damani Lodges was an adventure in itself. Normally, the Hatta Express bus offers a super affordable and convenient option to reach Hatta—only 25 AED for a scenic, 1.5-hour ride from Dubai. Unfortunately, during our visit, the Hatta Express wasn’t available. Thankfully, a friend offered to drive us, making the journey comfortable and full of excitement as we left the cityscape behind and approached Hatta’s rugged terrain. Watching the mountains grow taller as we neared our destination added a sense of anticipation that made the arrival at Damani Lodges even sweeter.

Scenic Views of the Mountains going to Hatta

The Hatta Sign

Checking In: The Cozy Charm of the Lodge

We arrived at Hatta Wadi Hub and checked in. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel welcomed and well cared for. From there, we hopped onto a buggy that took us up the rugged path to our lodge, each one perched beautifully along the cliffside, offering incredible views of the surrounding mountains.

Each lodge at Damani is uniquely charming, blending rustic elements with a warm, modern style. Each comes with its own picnic table, a private grilling station, and a designated spot to set up a bonfire. My lodge was perfect—a cozy yet spacious cabin with large windows that welcomed the mountain views inside. With earthy wood tones and comfortable furnishings, the room felt like a home away from home. I especially appreciated the private terrace, where I could sit back and enjoy the view at any hour, enveloped by serenity.

The barbecue grilling station and a spot to set up the bonfire

After capturing some photos and video reels of the lodge’s stunning views, we relaxed and soaked in the mountain beauty. Then came the surprise of the day—a birthday cake from Hatta Resorts! I truly didn’t expect it, but Ed had made a way to let them know about the occasion, and they happily obliged. A huge thank you to Hatta Resorts for the thoughtful and delicious surprise!

A Mountain Sunset and Glamping Dinner by the Bonfire

For dinner, we opted for the Oriental barbecue set, which gives you the choice to have it pre-cooked or grill your own. We chose to grill our own, and it came with everything needed for a cozy outdoor meal: a private grill station, a table set up outside the lodge, and a bundle of wood for the bonfire. As the sun began its descent, Ed fired up the grill, filling the air with the mouthwatering aroma of barbecue. With each passing moment, the sky transformed into a breathtaking canvas of orange and pink hues, setting the perfect scene for an unforgettable birthday dinner.

We savored our meal as the last light dipped behind the mountains, feeling a sense of serenity and joy that only nature can bring. After dinner, we sat by the warmth of a bonfire—a perfect end to a night of food, laughter, and scenic views. I think, as you grow older, you start to appreciate these quiet, intimate celebrations more than big parties. For me, this night—sharing a meal, watching the sunset, and simply being with loved ones is just perfect to mark another year. Indeed without a doubt, the best birthday celebration I could have asked for!

Waking Up to a Breathtaking View and a Picnic Breakfast

The next morning, I woke up to the breathtaking view of Hatta’s majestic mountains, the perfect way to start the day. For breakfast, we chose the Oriental breakfast set, and it was served in a charming picnic basket, thoughtfully packed with a delicious assortment of morning treats. We enjoyed the sumptuous meal on the patio, savoring each bite against the backdrop of stunning, untouched landscapes. It was a peaceful, rejuvenating moment—just us, the crisp mountain air, and a view that felt like something out of a dream.

The oriental breakfast set

Also Read: The Yard in Last Exit Al Khawaneej: Of Love Locks and Food Trucks

Fun at Wadi Hub: Archery and Axe Throwing

After breakfast, we ventured out to explore the activities at Hatta Wadi Hub. There’s something for everyone here, from intense adventure sports to laid-back activities, so it’s easy to find something enjoyable no matter your energy level. Since I can’t do intense activities just yet, I decided to try my hand at archery, while Ed opted for axe throwing. It was a hilarious experience; as I’m still working on my strength, they gave me a child’s bow and let me stand closer to the target. It turned into such a fun, lighthearted moment, with plenty of laughs and encouragement.

Rope course at Hatta Wadi Hub

Also read: Old Dubai Do-It-Yourself Walking Tour

Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or simply a weekend escape, Damani Lodges in Hatta offers a rare mix of adventure and tranquility that suits any occasion. The scenic surroundings, well-thought-out lodges, and wealth of outdoor activities make it a staycation destination worth repeating. This birthday, the mountains gave me exactly what I needed: a chance to pause, appreciate the little things, and welcome another year with a full heart. After the health ordeal I went through last year, I’m just so grateful to celebrate another year, surrounded by love and natural beauty.

Read More

Revier Hotel: Swiss-style Hotel in Dubai

Did you know that you can experience Swiss hospitality in the heart of Dubai?

We were delighted to learn about Revier Hotel. The hotel brand curated in Switzerland recently opened its doors in Business Bay. We felt it would be a unique staycation venue in the UAE, especially now that the weather is getting warmer. So we booked a one-night stay!

Read More

Staycation and SBG Weekend Griller at Swissotel Al Ghurair

Located in the old district of a dazzling city is a gem of a hotel that offers comfort, convenience, and sweeping views of both old and new structures. With Union Metro Station around the corner and the Dubai Creek only a stone's throw, Swissotel Al Ghurair is considered one of Deira's best hotel accommodations for travelers. 

From a Dubai resident's point of view, I see Swissotel Al Ghurair as an ideal spot for special dinners and events for several years. And just recently, I realized how suitable it is for staycations as well! 

Read More

A Perfect City Break at Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre Hotel

Now that the world is slowly coping up with the COVID-19 situation - safety protocols have been implemented here and there - Ed and I have also learned to embrace the new norm. Recently, we started to spend more time outdoors for a natural dose of Vitamin D which I believe we are deficient with by now. And being home buddies and couch potatoes for several months, we finally opted to break away from the mundane household routine with hotel staycations.

Last week, we spent a night at Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre Hotel. Freshly reopened and launched with an ALLSAFE label, we were confident that we'll experience a much-needed city break with peace of mind.

Read More

Budget-Friendly Family Staycation at Premier Inn Dubai Dragon Mart

Long before COVID-19 shook the world, my parents flew over to Dubai for a quick visit. It became a sort of tradition to spend a night or two in a hotel every time they arrive. Ed and I are often caught up with work, hence staying in a hotel has been an excellent way to spend more quality time, catch up and bond with them in a relaxed atmosphere.

Tested and proven for comfortable yet budget-friendly stays, we spent a night in the newly-opened Premier Inn Hotel in Dubai.   

Read More

Stylish City Staycation in Novotel Dubai Al Barsha

What makes up a short yet satisfying staycation?

If you ask me, it should be in a place not too far away from home; fewer travel hours and more time to kick back and relax. A spacious hotel room with a view will come in handy. And huge plus points if I can indulge in my fave comfort food (seafood dinner perhaps) and if it has a pool where I can swim my worries away!

How lucky I am to tick off all those when I badly needed a quick break a few weeks ago!

Read More

Things I Love about Premier Inn Al Jaddaf

I have heard about Al Jaddaf a few times before, but most of the time, it was all about the dhow building yard. I thought it is a far-off deserted place located at the end of the Dubai Metro's Green Line. Little did I know, Al Jaddaf has quickly flourished into one of the most sought after communities in Dubai! 

It is in this thriving localle that Premier Inn Dubai opened a new hotel! Judging from the outside, Premier Inn Al Jaddaf is quite different from all the other Premier Inns I've seen. It looks very Dubai with its sand-hued facade and windcatchers! And when we stayed there last weekend, it realized that it is much more than a charming traditional exterior! 

Read More

OYO Rooms: Budget Stay in the UAE

I'm a huge fan of budget travel, but here's the catch - I'm not the one who's willing to compromise comfort and convenience. Being always after the value of money, I was thrilled when I heard about the launching of OYO Rooms in the UAE.  

What is OYO? 

OYO Rooms is actually not a newbie in the budget travel category. It originated in India in 2013 as a startup which aimed to standardize the services in budget hotels and guesthouses. It has become South Asia's largest hospitality group, and now it's being introduced to the world; one country at a time.  

Read More

Family Staycation in Hili Rayhaan by Rotana

Al Ain is undoubtedly one of the popular holiday destinations in the UAE. It is where Ed and I usually go whenever we need to take a breather. Fondly called as The Garden City, Al Ain is a total opposite of Dubai; no skyscrapers, no bizarre structures, lots of lush greens, and time seemingly moves slower! 

Now that my parents are here again on a short vacation and I think they have seen much of Dubai already, we decided to let them have a whole new experience; a change of environment by having a lazy family staycation in Al Ain. 

Read More

Into the Wild: A Unique Staycation Experience at Sir Bani Yas Island

What's your favorite thing to do during long weekends? Ed and I, if we're not escaping to another country, love to do something new in the UAE. Our holiday checklist usually involves a relaxing staycation, tasting a new cuisine, and experiencing a new activity. 

And there is one destination where we were able to tick off all those three. Sir Bani Yas island!      

Read More

Premier Inn: Budget Stay in Dubai with a Passport to Discounts

Apologies for the month-long silence on this blog. Once in a while, I do some blogger detox to focus on more important things in life; priceless things like spending time with my family. :)

Last month, my parents visited me in my second home - Dubai - for the third time. This time, I wanted them to experience the finer things this city can offer. But you know me, I always find ways to see/eat/do more while spending less, and I have a new discovery! It's the Premier Inn Passport!

Read More

A Repeat Stay at Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort

During the recent holiday, Ed and I ventured out to one of the most exotic places in the United Arab Emirates. We traveled to Sir Bani Yas - a natural island with a magnificent wildlife reserve situated miles away from the capital of the UAE.

Due to the distant location and the fact that we had to take two exhausting bus rides to reach Sir Bani Yas Island boat jetty terminal, we decided to rest for a while and spend a night somewhere close by. The good news is that our favorite hideaway - Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort - is the nearest accommodation we can find.

If you can remember, we have stayed at this wonderful 5-star property two years ago. Hence, I wouldn't deny that I was glad, or shall I say relieved, to see a familiar place less than 20 km away from the jetty when I looked into Google maps.

Read More

A Polynesian-themed Staycation in Lapita Hotel Dubai

Having a taste of Lapita Hotel's Polynesian hospitality during a Daycation Brunch last year, Ed and I were keen on going back for a proper staycation. We super love the island vibe that drifted us away from the desert to the tropics in an instant. So a few months later, we found ourselves back in Lapita for Ed's birthday. The hotel stay + park access package was a no-brainer for us who crave for a little R&R plus a whole lot of adventure on the side.

Read More

Staycation in Abu Dhabi: Capital Centre Arjaan by Rotana

Last weekend, I found myself once again inside a bus en route to Abu Dhabi. The capital has been our go-to-destination for short city breaks. This summer alone, we already visited twice! Although the almost 2-hour bus ride became a norm for us, Abu Dhabi never became a mundane destination. The huge emirate has a lot to offer!

Our staycation spot, this time, is in the center of the business district! Sounds ironic, isn't it? But in our home for the weekend - Capital Centre Arjaan by Rotana, business amazingly goes well with leisure.

Read More

A Stylish and Affordable Staycation at Centro Barsha

Dubai can sometimes be overwhelming for budget-savvy travelers. With world-famous attractions and lavish hotels scattered all over the city, one can easily label Dubai as an expensive place to visit. But living here for nearly a decade, I have learned that this melting pot is not just for those who have money to burn.

Beyond the fancy lifestyle, Dubai has a string of affordable hotels fit for the new generation of travelers - basically, for those who want to see more, spend less and stay comfortable. Ed and I, being budget-conscious travelers ourselves, can pretty much relate to this!    

Here in the UAE, one of the hotel brands that we adore is Centro. It is an affordable lifestyle hotel brand of Rotana - a trusted name in the hospitality industry. We have stayed in two Centro hotels in Abu Dhabi and one in Sharjah a long time ago, and last weekend, we were in Centro Barsha in Dubai.  

Read More

Overnight Stay at Royal Continental Hotel Dubai

Traveling to Dubai sometime soon? If you're searching for a good place to stay, I have a recommendation. Ed and I recently had an overnight stay at the newly-opened Royal Continental Hotel in Deira.

My first impression was that it is perfect for stylish yet budget-savvy travelers. And that impression lasted throughout our stay.     

Read More

Danat Al Ain Resort: Weekend Retreat in The Garden City

Known as The Garden City, Al Ain has been one of our favorite destinations for holidays and quick breaks. We have been frequent visitors, especially during our first few years in the UAE when one of our friends lived there.

Al Ain is breathtaking. The lush greenery, rugged mountains and mineral springs are the reasons why we always welcome the possibilities of spending long weekends in the laid back town. Hence, last week, when Ed and I had another opportunity to have a quick break from work, we head back to Al Ain.

And this time, we stayed in a resort nestled in the heart of the oasis.

Read More

11 Things To Look Forward To In Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort

With the temperature quickly rising, I often find myself thinking about new summer destinations. It has been only a month since we had a beach getaway in Thailand, but discovering what UAE has to offer other than the popular choices like Jumeirah Beach and Jebel Hafeet excites me. And last weekend, we found a perfect summer hideaway. 

Ed and I had a sweet escape in Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort. Where? Jebel Dhanna in Al Ruwais. Huh? Well, that's actually me when I first heard about the 5-star resort in the Western Region. I immediately googled and check its location on the map. Gosh! It's 4 hours away from Dubai by car. Since we don't drive, we should take the inter-Emirate bus and that would take us around 5 hours to get there. 

But that's the beauty of it. It is nestled in a land far far away... far from the city, far from the noise, far from my workplace, far from anything else that matters in my daily grind. Sounds like a superb escape plan, right?

Read More

Christmas Staycation in Centro Sharjah

'Twas the day before Christmas. Almost everyone I know was busy whipping up something delicious in the kitchen, wrapping gifts, and sending out some virtual Christmas love on Facebook. Ed and I, on the other hand, went off to a non-traditional celebration.

We spent Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for the first time in Sharjah. Perhaps you're wondering why we wanted to be there when all the yuletide fun is in Dubai. Well, we both have been very busy lately. Ed even spent half of his holiday at work, hence quality time was the best Christmas gift that we could ever give to each other. 

So, we gleefully agreed to a Christmas staycation in Centro Sharjah.  

Centro Sharjah

Read More

Aparthotel Adagio Fujairah: Our Home in the East Coast

Fujairah has always been a delightful destination. We have fallen in love with the rugged Hajar mountains and the pristine sands that we make it a point to visit at least once a year. So, on another glorious sunny weekend in the desert, when the temperature soared to 40 degrees Celsius, Ed and I couldn't be happier that we were in a bus heading to the beautiful east coast where the summer weather is much friendlier.

During our past trips, Ed and I guiltlessly wasted our days unwinding in beach resorts. We would go home knowing that we have a lot more to discover in the city; hence I instantly embraced the invitation to stay at Aparthotel Adagio Fujairah although it meant I must squeeze it in my one and only day off!

Novotel, Ibis and Aparthotel Adagio Fujairah

Read More