Desert eid

This Eid Al Adha, the hotel, perched on the edge of the Rub Al Khali Desert, where you can experience breathtaking views of some of the highest dunes in the world and immerse yourself in true Arabian “Oasis of Hospitality”, is offering some special rates starting from Dh699 per night. This includes breakfast for two adults and two children below five-year old and free access to the Body and Soul, the fitness centre with swimming pool, steam and sauna. Children between six and 12 years old get 50 per cent discount on buffet meals.

While at the hotel, you may explore adventurous activities such as dune bashing, quad biking and sand boarding or simply lounge around the infinity pool overlooking the rolling dunes. A trip to the camel farm and to the camel track arena can be arranged for a fee. The Eid rates are valid during October 23-27. Maximum of two children up to 12 years old can stay in the room on existing bedding.

Chocolicious

Yup, this is Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort and Spa. They started with Bubbleicious brunch a while back, and now they continue with a Chocolicious treat. On October 11, 12 and 13, from 3pm till 8pm, a culinary adventure awaits here in the shape and flavours of an exclusive chocolate fair at the hotel’s Lounge cafe. To be experienced are creative and delightful preparations made from one of the finest chocolates, Michel Cluizel, by a special guest chef, who will team up with Westin’s executive pastry chef.

On the menu, there are chocolate afternoon tea buffet style (Dh90 net per person), chocolate fountain, a large variety of chocolate preparations on live stations and even a live chocolate molecular preparation. There will also be free live chocolate demo classes (4.30 and 6.30pm), free kids chocolate Florentine and wrapping station (children make their own chocolate Florentine, wrap it and take it home), a chocolate retail area and plenty of chocolate tasting.

Also at the Lounge, this month, there is a Daily Double promotion, meaning double up your cakes and bakes — that is buy two — and receive another one free!

The promotion goes on daily from 6pm until the bakeries are sold out.

While here, check out the chocolate fondue, a new liquid chocolate experience by the same French chocolatier Michel Cluizel. Pure and devoid of any trace of bitterness, this delectable chocolate is revered by the most demanding connoisseurs the world over. Indulge in a choice between white, milk or dark chocolate accompanied by fresh strawberries, bananas, dates, chocolate brownies, pistachio cookies and flavoured marshmallows.

Served daily at the Lounge, the fondue for two is Dh80 net.

Lion visiting

His majesty the lion has just changed his receiving hours. And not just him, but all residents of Al Ain Zoo. Welcoming the cooler weather, the zoo has switched to winter opening hours.

Families and animal lovers can explore the zoo from 9am till 8pm daily, with an array of exciting activities to indulge in as well. The Bird Show will take place at 6.30pm daily, while weekend visitors can also enjoy the Parrot Show at 5.15pm on Fridays and Saturdays. The Elezba children’s farm allows children to get up-close with furred and feathered animals, while for Dh5, everyone may climb up to a giraffe’s head to offer a cup of food.

The announcement of winter hours follows the launch of the Hippopotamus exhibit at Al Ain Zoo during the Eid Holiday — an exciting new opportunity for visitors to witness one of the world’s heaviest terrestrial animals.

During the Eid Al Adha holiday the zoo will be open from 10am to 10pm. —silvia@khaleejtimes.com