Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas ★★★★★

As the cabin crew member flashed me a huge glittering smile and ushered me off the plane, I was instantly hit by an extraordinary wave of heat; I could only be in the United Arab Emirates. However, I didn’t have too long to adjust to this new heightened temperature, as I was soon being whisked off to the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, only a short car journey away.

Nestled on the white-sand coastline of Saadiyat Island, 500m off the coast of the Abu Dhabi, every inch of this resort radiates unadulterated opulence. I soon discovered that its award-winning reputation is not undeserved, as every one of the 306 rooms, suites and villas are well-appointed and perfectly equipped. My room, a Park King, was spacious, elegant and contemporary, with such luxurious amenities as a snug king size bed, a 42-inch TV and high-speed Wi-Fi. That’s not even mentioning the lavish marble bathroom which boasts a gorgeous stand-alone bathtub, and walk-in rain shower and lovely dual vanity sinks – perfect for if you’re travelling in a pair.

Within the comfortable confines of the resort, there was more than enough to fill my sun-kissed days. When I was seeking some traditional holiday downtime, a 9km arch of flawless white sand awaited at Saadiyat Beach, fringed by the gentle turquoise waves of the Arabian Sea. If I wanted to refresh and cool down, the hotel is home to one of the largest pools in the city, surrounded by manicured gardens and verdant palm trees dancing in the warm breeze. To sink even further into relaxation, I whiled away the hours at the glorious Atarmia Spa, where I felt like a new woman after succumbing to the indulgent treatments.

Sometimes, it’s easy to forget you’re in one of the world’s most progressive cities – so make sure to go out and experience it! Whether you choose to spend your afternoon strolling the waterfront Corniche or shopping ‘til you drop in the fabulous shopping centres, the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas will welcome you home with a divine meal at one of their eateries. Will it be delicious charcoal-grilled meat in the Park Bar & Grill or an international classic in the Café? Either way, you can’t go wrong: everything in this wonderful establishment ensures the most perfect of holidays in the contemporary haven that is Abu Dhabi.