In the year in which international travel collapsed, my thirst for travel increased…

But, the positive has been the discovery of just how fantastic resorts close to home are for UAE residents – in particular the Hilton Ras al Khaimah Resort and Spa.

It is true we are fortunate in this part of the world, in that we have a fine selection of five-star beach resorts – but believe me, none come close to the amazing location of the Hilton RAK!

You see, most beach resorts have their main building, a freshwater pool, and then a stretch of beach in front – and that’s lovely.

In comparison, the Hilton RAK is a majestic hotel building situated on an entire bay, a full village of private seaside villas, multiple pools and restaurants, and a beach that spans forever!

The photo above?

That’s perhaps a quarter of the beach…

And along the beach, you will find your villa.

With its own balcony and view…

Or you could choose to stay in the main building, which gives onto several swimming pools and gardens.

The Hilton RAK is a very special holiday destination, and it not only satisfies the urge to get away from regular life, but it does so at a world-class level which is comparable to flying to any of the world’s best luxury resorts – and right here in Ras al Khaimah!

The beach itself is fantastic, and fully serviced.

Calm, warm waters, and time to enjoy watersport activities or just chill…

Enjoy the sunset…

Social distancing became a bit of a joke for us, because the resort is so spacious, that really there is no possibility of crowding – and even then, the Hilton crew was superbly trained in regard.

Every stroll we took, we discovered something new at the Hilton RAK…

Oh, look! The villas on this side have their own pool!

Oh, did you know there’s also a Rooftop Bar?

Where?

Oh, somewhere over there… not sure I can find it again!

And have you seen the sunset from Sol, on the eastern beach?

Best sundowner ever!

And so the conversations went – the nooks and crannies are so many, and each one more delightful than the previous one!

But perhaps the best feature of your staycation at the Hilton Ras al Khaimah Resort and Spa?

Please inquire for the all-inclusive package…

This means that in each of those exciting nook and crannies that you will discover, you need not worry about the bill.

And that opens up the resort enjoyment to limitless proportions – because at the Hilton RAK there are multiple excellent restaurants, bars, lounges, clubs, pubs, snack-shops, open-air tents, under-water haunts… I mean, everything you could possibly imagine – and more!

Like even a golf buggy set up as a refreshment van roams the beach sands to bring you cold drinks and munchies – and with the all-inclusive… yep, you never reach for your wallet nor even consider the cost: it’s all inclusive!

And the restaurant options are fabulous!

A myriad of dining and snacking options are hidden all over the resort – and you will enjoy a variety of cuisines, including a fine-dining Italian restaurant – Piaceri da Gustare; a lively Latin American joint, the Pura Vida; and an authentic Lebanese grill, Al Maeda.

These are the main three, in addition to the central all-day dining, breakfast, and banquet halls, plus more than a dozen other options available for your culinary delight!

Yes, you will be spoiled at the Hilton Ras al Khaimah – but actually, a lot more than that.

You will be rejuvenated in mind and spirit, just like a good vacation should – and the few hours drive to Ras al Khaimah, from Dubai, or Abu Dhabi, or closer, will result in a staycation that you could not do better if you flew internationally.

In fact, next occasion I have, forget the hassle of airports, visas, and foreign travel, because the Hilton Ras al Khaimah Resort and Spa is in a world of its own, and it brings you and your family or friends to a destination so near, and yet so far – so safe and so convenient – for an absolutely splendid and unique vacation stay in the UAE.