Destination Hen Weekend

Aside from my passion for designing and planning extraordinary events (I guess that is why I am in the events industry), my second passion is travelling. I love travelling to exotic countries, learning about different cultures and of course trying out exotic food. Over the past few weeks, I have had a busy travel schedule. I flew off to Dubai for a 3-day business trip and I have recently come back from the US East Coast where I co-ordinated a wedding (more of that to follow soon).

I loved everything about Dubai. The weather was very hot – which may not be ideal for some people- but I have always loved the heat so I had no complaints. The architecture was amazing. There are lots of different architectural styles to see. Some of the finest and most luxurious hotels in the world are located in Dubai and quite a lot of them are located right on the beachfront.

I get a lot of inspirations and ideas from my travels, and I was greatly inspired in Dubai. It is no surprise that there has been a rise in the trend of Dubai destination weddings. From dress designers, to tuxedo rentals, breath taking venues and lovely beach hotels, couples are spoilt for choice in this modern city.

I personally think it is a fantastic city for a weekend Hen getaway. There are loads to do to make it a fun filled weekend for the bride and her friends. The shopping malls offer some of the best retail outlets in the world, with a combination of British and American stores, I felt like a kid let loose in a candy store. Imagine an afternoon of shopping with your friends and a day of pampering and indulgence at one of the luxurious spas. If I had to plan a hen weekend in Dubai, this is what my timetable will look like:

Weekend Hen Party:
Fly out Thursday night (Emirates have late flights from Heathrow and Birmingham) to get in Friday morning.

Friday
Go to the hotel and drop off bags: When making your reservations try to negotiate an early check in with no extra charge if possible.
Freshen up then hit the malls to start your day of shopping. (To make it even more fun, put a time limit on shopping time i.e. say 11am – 5pm, and anyone that isn’t back by the designated time will have to pay for drinks :o)…
Head back to your hotel for a nice afternoon snooze.
Enjoy a lovely dinner in one of the numerous restaurants or in the hotel where you are staying. Be sure to tell them when making your dinner reservations that it is for a hen night. Many hotels are happy to work with your theme.
If you and your party are still rearing to go, you can end the day at one of the multitude of bars and nightclubs.

Saturday
Wake up late and have a late breakfast.
Head out to the spa for a morning of pampering and indulgence
Meet at the reception lobby for an evening desert safari. This is a 6-hour long duration and it includes dinner.
A truly rare experience waits while you watch the sunset over the horizon; depart in the afternoon in four-wheel drive vehicles for a thrilling desert drive through huge golden sand dunes, deep into the heart of the desert. A photo halt at a camel farm and the fabulous view of the sun setting over the desert dunes are some of the memories you will cherish from the desert drive.
Arrive at the desert camp, where a traditional Arabian welcome awaits each of you. Enjoy the true Arabian ambiance, with traditional Arabian carpets, low tables and cushions for comfortable seating.
At the desert camp, experience the camel ride, henna painting, try Arabic costumes or simply enjoy the aromatic Sheesha. Enjoy the splendid buffet dinner with a wide variety of barbecue meats, salads, main-course and deserts. The climax of the evening is the stunning performance under the star-lit sky by the exotic belly dancer.
A dessert safari can be arranged through Dessert Safari Dubai (http://www.desertsafaridubai.com/) or any other dessert tour company.

Sunday
Fly back home exhausted but well worth it :o)…

Note: The price of a short weekend in Dubai will depend on how early you book your tickets and the time of travel. If going during the off peak season, you will be looking to spend for the entire weekend in the region of £500 - £800. Off peak will be a lot more.
Peak Season: October – April
Off Peak Season: May – September (the weather is hot and humid during these months)

Also when planning your trip, you should consider Ramadan.