An afternoon dreaming with Arabian gazelles

Mariam Nihal

Saudi Gazette

Treasured by merchants since at least 5000 BCE (Before Current Era), trading has been an essential part of life in Ras Al Khaimah. It is now home to some of the most luxurious resorts in the world.



Now we know setting is perhaps most integral to the work of an artist and essential to any narrative. If there have been times you have looked back at that intangible moment in time where life seemed staged in a beautiful landscape that seemed like reverie, with gazelles lurking around your swimming pool that opens up into picturesque wilderness, then this is it.



It’s called Banyan Tree Al Wadi. An hour’s drive from Dubai, this destination is created to capture nature’s alluring beauty in its purest and wildest character. Picture walking into your personal stone built villa, and out onto your dreamscape. It’s like walking up to a portrait that seems so authentic but the only difference is this is your reality.



With sunbeds scattered along the terrace area, all it opens up to is your pool, facing surreal déjà vu mountains that remind you of nature’s grandeur and relentless power. All that captures your undivided attention from the swimming pool and the cosmic base is your backyard brimming with gorgeous gazelles



On the inside, you are pampered with fine resort living profits. Fine soft linens and silk brocades, the villa is designed with intricate carvings in Arabesque design and opens to high ceilings with top of the range speakers and sound equipment.



Guaranteed you came to stay indoors. But this sanctuary plays it differently. You might even camp out in your private, outdoors pool front with an unobstructed view of the majestic mountains. It is the kind of peaceful luxury you seek; pay and travel miles for just to wake up and sleep off to. It is the setting that helps recover your lost train of thought.



When you step out of this lavish sanctuary (why would you?) indulge in the Asian-inspired hydrotherapy spa facilities, take a journey through the dunes of Al Wadi Nature Reserve, along with fantastic activities like horse riding, archery and Falconry courses.



But they also recreate the concept of eating in. Not only is Banyan Tree a retreat, it is known to be a romantic getaway. Away from all the hullabaloo and polluted city life, this is one place couples can enjoy much deserved quality time. You can search for the premier heights or the most exquisite imperial setting but nothing beats a grand Arabic feast staged by the pool with long laden wooden lamps lit as the sun sets and your personal chefs stir up a fantastic meal for you and your special one. Barbecue by your own pool was never so much fun. This grown up version makes you doubt the ones in your memory’s backyard.



While you are busy spoiling yourself, don’t forget the luxury of fine dining Italian cuisine available at Banyan Tree’s signature restaurant Safran. You can also dine at Safran Tower, designed in the style of an Arabic watchtower for an intimate dinner. Explore Al Waha, Samar and Moon lounge for shisha and Sands situated on the Banyan Al Wadi’s multicuisine map.



Once you are settled in and your newfound home has found a new place in your heart, head out for the extreme Rainforest experience. This 150-minute treatment of hydrothermal therapy includes half an hour of pure relaxation and refreshments.



This experience is designed to stimulate your senses, as you walk through the cascading shower of the Rain Walk, you get a rough idea about the upcoming journey of hydrothermal therapy. As you wander along the Sole Therapy across a pebbled pond with hot and cold-water pockets you are led into the warm misty aroma steam chambers that helps body detoxification. The bucket drench shower is fun, on your way to the sauna, make a pit stop at the bucket shower and wash off the excess sweat.



Awaken your senses with a cold crushed ice at the Ice Igloo that helps enhance blood circulation and tone the skin. If you want to spoil yourself, then go ahead and indulge in body treats and massages and head to vitality pool designed with six therapeutic acupressure body jets.



This is just another wonder Banyan Tree Al Wadi has kept to itself, but luckily it is no secret. So whether it’s your sweet escape, vacation of a lifetime or the perfect wedding and honeymoon spot (considering you haven’t proposed at the top of Safwan tower), trust you are in the safe hands of a lavish dream generating arena that promises you an enchanting adventure. At Banyan Tree, they make sure you wake up on the realer side of dreams.