Joanna James
Life in Abu Dhabi, the dazzling capital of the Emirates, can at times get a bit too lively. So, when you need to cool down and relax a little, here's where to go.
Have a capital time by getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Find solace in the calm and peaceful surroundings of the Capital Garden that's also known as the Al Asema Park. The park spreads across 5.6 hectares and was built in 1976. At the entrance, you will be greeted by a curious collection of ornamental coffee pots. Inside the park, there is a serene pond with many bubbling fountains. It's a great place to hang out with the family as there is an area dedicated for kids to play.
The Capital Garden is located along the First Street.
Usually when you hear the word "Corniche" what comes to your mind is a picture of the 8 kilometre stretch of golden sands. However, just across the road from the beach is an assortment of beautiful little parks. If you start from the east side, you get the Recreation Park that has a massive sundial. Next up is the Formal Park; don't worry it's not that boring as the name suggests there are barbeque pits, a maze and badminton courts. Then there's Lake Park that features a stunning 15-metre fountain, walkways, and wooden bridges.
Why not soak up some local culture while you're relaxing? The Heritage Park located off Al Firdous Street towards the east of the Corniche is an amazing park that is a modern reconstruction of a traditional oasis village. At the park's museum, you will see traditional aspects of the Bedouin lifestyle displayed including a goat's hair tent, a campfire with coffee pots and Falaj irrigation system. There are workshops where you can see craftsmen and women demonstrate traditional skills like pottery, metalwork, spinning, and weaving; you can even get the chance to try these skills for yourself. One place you just have to go is the little spice shop here that sells an impressive range of not just dried herbs and spices but aromatic handmade soap as well.
In addition to the museum, the Heritage Park also features several kiosks, barbecue pits, a climbing frame for the kids, faux grottos, a traditional dhow harbour, fountains and stunning views.
Previously known as the Mushrif Park, the Umm Al Emarat Park has a lot of cool features such as the 'Wisdom Park' where you can wander around pondering about life and its many mysteries. There's the Animal Barn, a petting zoo home to camels, goats, and ponies! Other features include the Botanic Garden with its 200+ regional plant species, the Children's Garden, the Shade House and an amphitheatre that can hold up to 1000 persons.
Exploring this isn't a walk in the park (excuse the pun)! The Mangrove National Park is a spectacular landmark that's located along the Eastern Ring Road right next to the Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara. In fact, this airport hotel in Abu Dhabi and others in the area arranges tours to the park so it will be much easier for you. The National Park is home to an impressive ecosystem that provides sanctuary for a variety of marine life and birds.
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