As I mentioned in my blog a few weeks ago, after spending two days in Abu Dhabi city, I headed to the Qasr Al Sarab, in the middle of the Liwa Desert. It’s much like a mirage, as one can’t believe one’s eyes as a 5-star resort seemingly rises out of nowhere in the sand dunes. After arriving and settling into my gorgeous room, I headed to Al Waha for lunch. Talk about an amazing spread — there were tons of options, from vegetables and salads to hot entrées to rolls and desserts. I ate more hummus than ever before during my stay; it was delicious. The real treat of the day was later that afternoon, when I had an Arabian massage at the resort spa. It was incredibly relaxing and the perfect cap to a hectic few days. I enjoyed a 5-star dinner that evening in Suhail, with pre-dinner cocktails on the rooftop terrace — overlooking the sand dunes at night, a truly special view. I rose early the next morning to trek the sand dunes as the sun was rising — talk about a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It was a bit more of a hike than a walk, but reaching the top was well worth the workout. Here’s a picture from my desert walk. Later that day, I learned more about the local culture during a traditional Arabic sitting. Under a tent set up on the property, I listened as the guide explained the customs while sipping Arabic coffee and enjoying some delicious treats as well as some wonderful dates. After a morning of archery lessons the next day, I snuck back to the spa for a pedicure. Several hours later, I was up on a camel, wandering through the desert valley as the sun set on the area. I was excited to ride a camel in the desert, and the activity was a fun, different treat. After dinner that evening, I packed my bag. I was departing at 6 a.m. the next morning, catching my flight back to the States. I was sad that my time in Abu Dhabi was wrapping up — I had a great trip. While Qasr Al Sarab is a bit distant, I definitely recommend a short jaunt whenever your travels bring you to Abu Dhabi. — Kim Krol, eFlyer editor, PR and circulation executive