Experiencing Dubai the "Come Get It" way with IBIS

Dubai is a city that blends modern luxury with cultural experiences, offering visitors an unforgettable journey filled with exciting activities and vibrant culinary delights. Whether you're a food lover, an adventure seeker, or someone who enjoys creative learning, Dubai has something special for everyone. My recent trip to this dynamic city was nothing short of spectacular, beginning with a unique culinary experience at Twine, followed by a cocktail-making class, a vegan food exploration at Planet Terra, and a thrilling desert safari.

While I was in Dubai, I was staying at Ibis Dubai. Ibis just celebrated their 50th Anniversary and launched a "Go Get It" campaign. I realised the whole campaign places Ibis in the middle of the city and allows travellers to experience whatever they want at Ibis. Be it a business traveler, family or leisure traveler, everyone can experience Ibis their own way.

A Perfect Start at Twine: Boho Vibes and Vegetarian Delights

My journey began at Twine, a cozy, bohemian-inspired cafe tucked away in one of Dubai’s bustling neighborhoods. Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the soothing ambience – warm lights, rustic wooden accents, and dreamy macrame decor combined to create an atmosphere that felt both intimate and relaxing. The soft melodies playing in the background enhanced the cafe’s charm, making it the perfect place to start my day.

Twine's menu is a paradise for vegetarians. With every dish crafted to perfection, I indulged in their signature vegetable platter, which featured fresh greens, grilled zucchini, and perfectly spiced chickpeas. The highlight was their creamy avocado toast, beautifully plated and bursting with flavors that balanced creaminess with a hint of zest. Accompanied by a frothy cappuccino, it was an experience that brought comfort and satisfaction to my taste buds. Twine, with its boho interiors and delectable food, set the tone for a leisurely and indulgent day in Dubai.

Stirring Creativity: A Cocktail-Making Class at Ibis

After a serene morning, I craved something interactive and fun. I headed to Ibis, where I had pre-booked a cocktail-making class that turned out to be one of the most exciting parts of my trip. The experience was spectacular from start to finish. The professional mixologists welcomed us with warm smiles and began with a quick introduction to the art of mixology – the balance of flavors, techniques, and tools needed to create a perfect cocktail.

What followed was a hands-on experience that allowed us to unleash our inner mixologists. I learned to make three different cocktails, each with unique twists and ingredients. From muddling fresh herbs to shaking a classic mojito, I discovered the nuances of blending flavors to craft drinks that were as visually stunning as they were delicious. The bartenders shared insider tips and tricks, making the experience fun, educational, and incredibly interactive. By the end, sipping on my handmade concoctions gave me a sense of pride and a burst of flavor that was worth every moment.

A Vegan Feast at Planet Terra

No culinary exploration of Dubai is complete without discovering its growing vegan food scene. Planet Terra is a haven for vegans and food enthusiasts alike. Tucked in a serene corner, this charming restaurant exudes warmth with its minimalistic yet inviting decor. The menu was brimming with plant-based goodness, and every dish reflected the care and creativity that went into its preparation.

I started my meal with their crunchy falafels, served with creamy tahini sauce – a perfect balance of texture and taste. Next came their signature vegan burger, a hearty and flavorful delight with a juicy plant-based patty, fresh greens, and a hint of smoky vegan cheese. For dessert, I couldn’t resist sampling their decadent chocolate cake and gooey cookies. Each bite was a testament to how vegan food can be both satisfying and indulgent. Planet Terra not only nourished my body but also my soul, proving that wholesome eating can be an experience worth savoring.

Thrills and Serenity: Desert Safari in Dubai

The highlight of my Dubai journey, however, was the iconic Desert Safari. As the city’s glittering skyline faded into the horizon, I found myself surrounded by vast stretches of golden sand dunes. The excitement began with an adrenaline-pumping dune bashing session. Strapped into a 4x4 vehicle, we raced up and down the towering dunes, the thrill of the ride matched only by the stunning beauty of the desert landscape.

After the exhilarating ride, we paused to take in the breathtaking sunset. Watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting hues of orange, pink, and gold across the sands, was a moment of pure magic. The stillness of the desert, broken only by the whisper of the wind, offered a sense of peace unlike anything I had ever experienced.

The evening continued at a traditional Bedouin-style camp, where I enjoyed a delicious dinner under the stars. Arabian delicacies like hummus, kebabs, and freshly baked flatbreads were served as dancers entertained us with mesmerizing performances, including the hypnotic spins of Tanoura dancers and the graceful movements of belly dancers. The combination of culture, cuisine, and nature made the desert safari an experience that I will cherish forever.

As my Dubai trip ended, I realised how the Ibis experience had been nothing short of spectacular!