Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort

The resort has a Thai atmosphere that's noticeable immediately upon arrival at its Asian-style portico, lotus-flower water feature, and collection of figurine statues. The hotel reception continues this theme with a lofty wood-slate ceiling and collection of hanging lamps, while traditional Thai touches -- from ornate carvings, natural wood furnishings, and even traditionally Thai-dressed staff -- complete the illusion. Every effort has been made to give the whole resort an Eastern feel, with Thai temple-style architecture set in lush but meticulously tended grounds. The gardens are full of colorful flowers, exotic plans, and tropical palms and are arranged around a series of lagoon pools and extending to a lovely white sand beach. The complex is a particularly attractive resort by day, but its when night falls and the resort lights up when the place really shines -- making for one of the more romantic settings in Dubai and a popular spot for couples.  

The hotel is located on the Palm Jumeirah -- one of two of Dubai's palm-shaped artificial archipelagos that stretch out into the Arabian Gulf.  Its position halfway down the palm's eastern crescent and overlooking the islands fronds gives it a secluded feel, while at the same time making it a bit of a hassle to get to and from the Dubai mainland. Getting anywhere in Dubai from the property can take a while -- especially with Dubai's notoriously busy traffic -- so its best for those not planning on doing too much sightseeing. 

The resort has 260 rooms arranged around the lagoon pools and 30-plus villas, 18 of which constitute the only over-water villas in the UAE. Decor in all units is a contemporary take on traditional Thai styling with smart and simple dark-wood furnishings, natural wood floors, and occasional splashes of color. In-room amenities include free (and fast) Wi-Fi, Nespresso machines, and 42-inch flat-screen TVs with media hubs, while bathrooms have walk-in rainfall showers, separate tubs, double basins, bathrobes, and both slippers and flip-flops. The over-water villas offer particularly superb sea views and have glass viewing panels in the floor. For the real high-end experience, however, the Beach Pool Villa comes with a private infinity pool and direct access to a pristine stretch of beach.

The Anatara has all the facilities one would expect from a high-end resort, including a huge infinity swimming pool, tennis courts, a full-service spa, and a decent selection of restaurants and bars. However, the hotel stands out on several fronts, not least because of its particularly attractive, white sand beach, a pleasant change from some of Palm Jumeirah's lackluster beaches. Beach cocoons and cabanas are also a excellent touch (though daily rental is pricey) and the relatively long stretch of sand rarely feels crowded. Candlelit dinners by the beach can also be arranged for romancing couples (with notice), while families with children are well catered to, with entertainment and activities for both kids and teenagers.