Joanna James
While Dubai is a popular travel destination in the Middle East, not all of its luxury properties fit the bill when it comes to family holiday amenities. Here are the top 8 essentials that every accommodation provider must have to attract modern families on vacation.
This is often a non-negotiable feature for most families as visitors who are spending only a weekend or a short stay in Dubai will require a strategic base location. The ideal family resort or apartment should not only offer easy access to the airport but also some of the best shopping venues, water parks, restaurants and cultural landmarks in the city. Failing which, a property that's close to Dubai metro stations would also be desirable for families who intend to do a lot of sightseeing.
Keeping the kiddies occupied can be a tiresome fact of life when holidaying overseas unless one happens to be staying at a property with its own playground or gaming arcade. This is why most families prefer to stay in venues that not only have Kids' Clubs but also play areas, lawn space and child-centric activities such as crafting, cooking lessons and organised camping excursions.
Whether one chooses to stay at La Suite Dubai Hotel and Apartments or any of the other Sheikh Zayed Road hotels, it's necessary to find a rest that also contains the comforts of home. These amenities need not be anything fancy and luxurious as even something simple as having a refrigerator, washing machine or microwave inside the apartment or suite can make it feel more familiar and safe.
Hospitality hotspots that also have exclusive deals with water parks, amusement parks and restaurants in a certain neighbourhood will also attract families as these are the type of extra perks that can make a big difference. Free admission to a local water park or discounted tickets to a nearby museum are value-added exclusives that families look for in the perfect family hotel.
Families on a budget will also appreciate resorts and hotels that offer all-inclusive activities as a part of their travel packages geared towards groups and families. Some of these activities can include zip-lining tours, cooking lessons, skiing programmes and snorkelling sessions where equipment and instructors are provided as a part of the deal.
Meal plans can be a great relief for parents travelling with children as being able to partake in buffet breakfasts and brunches without worrying about the cost of each plate can make dining out a less stressful experience.
When vacationing in a dry location with high temperatures, even in the winter, having access to amenities like swimming pools and water parks can greatly affect the quality of the trip. Resorts that offer water slides and other water-related attractions, as well as separate areas for children to play, are especially desirable.
During the holidays, parents would rather avoid germs and diseases, which is why they tend to scrutinise the sanitation practices of accommodation providers. Hotels that are spotless, have good air quality and offer non-smoking areas are preferred by families for obvious reasons.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
