A TRIP OF A LIFETIME TO DUBAI WITH A TODDLER

Dubai is somewhere I had always wanted to visit. It had basically been on the bucket list that floats around my busy head for many years. Instead of planning a visit before I became a mummy, I decided to take the plunge and book it with a 23 month old (as you do!)

​DECIDING ON WHEN TO GO AND WHERE TO STAY 

After doing some research I decided that November would be the best month for us to book our trip to Dubai. The reason I chose November is because the average temperature is around 26 degrees! I thought this temperature would suit our little lady. I would have hated for her to feel uncomfortable in the heat, Dubai is in the desert after all.

​Choosing somewhere to stay took a little longer…there are SO many incredible hotels in Dubai. My dream was to stay on the Palm. I was concerned it would be too pricey. I had already decided I wanted to fly with Emirates (I really rate them) and their holiday website had some amazing half board Dubai offers! This included a half board stay at Sofitel The Palm. (The best bit was our little lady got to go for free, as she was just under two years old!) The reviews on Trip Advisor were excellent. The hotel came across as family friendly (which is so important to us when booking a holiday). So I booked it! Six night’s, half board, emirates flights included! We couldn’t wait for our adventure to begin!

​A MID HAUL FLIGHT WITH A TODDLER AND A VERY NERVOUS FLYER

I was nervous about the 7 hour flight. Firstly as this was our little ladies first time flying, and secondly because I am such a nervous flyer. Despite my fear I never want this to stop us seeing the world. I chose a night flight to Dubai in the hope that bubs would sleep, and she did most of the way. I on the other hand didn’t! The Emirates flight attendants were great. They provided her with a children’s activity pack, and a cute bag with her very own blanket included. I would highly recommend flying Emirates with children. We were well taken care of. If you want some happy tips for when flying with a toddler check them out here.

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​SMILES, SUN, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

When we arrived in Dubai my husband and I were a little nervous, we didn’t know what to expect. This soon passed. Everyone was SO lovely, they couldn’t do enough to enough.. Emirates put on a private car, to take us to our hotel. They had a baby car seat ready for bubs, which was fantastic. It was a great way to start our holiday as we basically had a tour of Dubai. Sofitel The Palm was beyond my expectations! It really was 5 star luxury (we felt like we were on our honey moon again). The staff were amazing, and were so kind to bubs. As soon as I walked in I knew I had book the perfect hotel for our little family! 

​SWIMMING, EATING, BEACH, PALM TREES, PLAY AREAS AND SUNSHINE 

​The hotel had everything and more. It had three different swimming pools, including a small children’s pool and sandpit. These were safe and shallow for bubs to play happily in. There were also lifeguards on every swimming pool, which was a great addition.

The hotel had a children’s club on site. Bubs was a little too young to stay there and play on her own, however accompanied by me or my husband she could play with the endless amount of toys they had to offer.
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As we had half board included we chose to have breakfast and dinner. The amount of food, and choice was out of this world! They even had a small children’s food section in the evening which changed every night. The staff were attentive, and made sure bubs was looked after. 

Getting around dubai 

When we go away we like to have relaxing days, as well as exploring what a place has to offer. We found the best way to get around Dubai was in a taxi. They didn't cost very much, and drop you to the door. My only qualm... the taxi's do not provide car seats, so bubs had to sit on my lap, in my seat belt. We visited Dubai Mall, went up the Burj Khalifa (highly recommend you do this), The Emirates Mall, and The Aquarium and Water Park at The Atlantis. Walking around we felt very safe.. Before we went we were concerned about the dress code. If you dress respectfully you will have nothing to worry about. 

Final Thoughts...

In my opinion I would highly recommend a family holiday to Dubai. I enjoyed it so much so, that I have booked to go back again late this year (so sorry bank balance), If you are thinking of going, look around for deals. There are lots of great ones out there! Have a little plan of what you would like to see, and do in Dubai before you go, There is so much to do in such a short space of time. You don't want to miss anything out! If you do go have a great time, and enjoy every minute! I would love to hear all about your Dubai adventures!
K xx
(please note all opinions are my own. I have not collaborated with any listed venues above, this is all my own experience and paid for by me, The images shown belong to me and my husband)