STAYCAY REVIEW: There’s no time for boredom at this superb family staycay

From toddlers to teens, Centara Mirage Beach Resort boasts something for everyone

Situated along the Dubai Islands Waterfront, this huge Thai and Arabian-inspired resort offers spacious family rooms, a candy-themed spa for children, seven dining venues, two beachside pools, waterslides, a merry-go-round of activities and not one, but three age-specific Kids’ Clubs.

 

ALL THE DEETS

 

Check-in

 

Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai

A grand entrance opens into a vast lobby, which, on arrival, is bustling.

The hosts are exceptionally welcoming, and instead of making the whole family wait in line, they immediately give the kids access to the waterpark to keep them entertained while the adults check-in.

 

What’s on offer

 

Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai

While in the lobby, there’s time to gaze at the resort map that showcases the resort’s sheer scale and the variety of things to do; family Jenga, beach skittles, water polo, volleyball, kayaking and scuba diving.

In the evenings, there’s a kids’ disco, cinema under the stars, puppet and magician show and crowd-pleasing theatrical displays such as dualing fire performances. Boredom is obviously not an option here.

The resort’s crown jewel is its outdoor water-based fun consisting of swimming pools, waterslides, a lazy river, an inflatables zone, a splash play area, and cliff jumping points. The attentive and friendly lifeguards knew my children by name within hours and were on hand to keep a watchful eye so we could relax. But you’ll have to be quick; sun loungers around the pool fill up fast with people claiming their spot well before breakfast.

 

The rooms

 

Staycay Review: There’s No Time For Boredom At This Superb Family Staycay

The resort has 607 rooms and suites designed with families in mind.

There are thoughtful amenities such as cots, baby monitors, and childproofing features to ensure a worry-free stay for parents with young children. Babysitting and nanny services are also available for a fee.

The decor is simple and fresh, with pops of colour that create a cheerful atmosphere. We stayed in one of their Superior Rooms, which offers a fantastic sea view and had bunk beds for the kids.

 

The food

 

Guests can visit any of the resort’s seven venues catering to diverse tastes.

Suan Bua is a Thai buffet experience with delicious salads, curries, stir-fries, and a great selection of desserts.

Uno Mas is their Argentinian restaurant with the most tender meat selection.

During the day, the kids will love the ice cream parlour by the beach. All outlets have child-friendly menus and options for even the pickiest eaters.

TIP: Beat the crowds and upgrade to the Mirage Lounge for breakfast, afternoon tea, and cocktails with canapes. The lounge is quiet but has an indoor playground for little ones.

 

The spa

 

Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai

Spa Cenvaree enjoys an extensive treatment menu offering Thai-inspired therapies such as massages, herbal body scrubs and firming wraps, facials, and restorative foot therapies.

I tried their Deep Muscular Massage, the perfect blend of firm yet utterly relaxing. I could have slept for hours.

For the kids, there is the Candy Spa – pampering treatments combined with the aesthetics of Willie Wonka!

The treatment rooms are colourfully decorated with fun oversized lollipops, chocolate bars and sweets.

Kids can choose from nail art, hair braiding, or mini facial and body treatments made from edible ingredients such as vanilla, chocolate or even gummy bears.

 

The lowdown

 

Centara Mirage Dubai

A resort designed for families; this hotel is well-versed in smoothing the pain points of travelling with children.

A stay with the kids becomes hassle-free, and they won’t want to leave.

The prices are reasonable, and they offer clever packages and perks that will entice kids and grown-ups alike. This is an all-inclusive resort that punches above its weight.

 

Summer Stay Offer: until 30 September 2023, avail up to 20 per cent off on room rates inclusive of breakfast. For more information, visit  centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cdd

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Image source Centara Mirage Dubai

 

Yalla Editors