Like you, Global Traveler is often affected by global events beyond our control. Some events may change a trip itinerary or alter a destination while others hit home in a personal way.
On New Year’s Eve, The Address Downtown Dubai, the flagship of Emaar Hospitality Group, experienced a devastating fire. Global Traveler readers voted the property Best Individual Hotel in the World five consecutive years, and The Address Hotels + Resorts won Best Hotel Chain in the Middle East the last three years. I have stayed at the hotel many times, and I can personally tell you the staff is fantastic at taking care of your every need. It is my second home in Dubai.
I was on a cruise when this happened, with little access to news. Wayne Tallman, a member of GT’s Advisory Board, and Olivia Falcione, advertising manager, both texted me, immediately informing me of the situation. They also frequented the hotel and have the highest regard for the property.
The good news is The Address team and Dubai authorities swiftly evacuated guests from the hotel. Emaar moved their construction contractors currently working on the Dubai Mall extension, promising “a swift repair and reopening of The Address.” We welcome their return opening!
I plan to travel to Dubai in March for my regular visit, but this time more as a tourist. A frequent traveler to Dubai, I find myself running from appointment to appointment rather than having the opportunity to experience all Dubai has to offer. I am sure I will make it to Abu Dhabi for a visit, where I look forward to staying at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers to update you on changes since the property opened.
I am also planning a domestic trip to Florida for business in Miami. Then, I plan to travel to Naples and Sarasota — places on the west coast of Florida where I’ve never visited (please do not laugh at me)! While there, I will stay at several The Ritz-Carlton properties in Miami, Naples and Sarasota. I will be maximizing the points with The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Credit Card from Chase so I can enjoy future stays at this award-winning brand.
After returning from a holiday cruise on Norwegian Gem, where I enjoyed a suite in The Haven (I miss my butler, Jayson), I found myself searching the Cunard Line website for trips on the upgraded Queen Mary 2 and options with Crystal Cruises. Five years ago I would pooh-pooh cruising as an avid aviation-focused traveler; however, over the years I came to respect the many offerings and opportunities cruises can fulfill. Family travel (including traveling with adult children and for multigenerational travel), special events (like anniversaries or birthdays) or even New Year’s Eve and holidays are great reasons to cruise.
Please continue to support this get-up-and-go lifestyle and remember to support our friends at The Address Hotels + Resorts as they rebuild The Address Downtown Dubai and make it better than ever. The Address The BLVD is scheduled to open later this year in Dubai, adding to the 5-star service and locations Emaar Hospitality Group offers the best travelers, like you, in the world!
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