December 12, 2024 11:46 (IST)
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Yas Island offers array of activities to attract visitors
Abu Dhabi, Nov 6 (IBNS): Yas Island in Abu Dhabi has long enjoyed a reputation as the UAE's prime entertainment destination, but it's not just race weekend, roaring rollercoasters and white-knuckle water rides which bring visitors flocking to the island throughout the year.
Yas Island’s offerings go far beyond the much-loved theme parks and annual sporting events, catering to visitors of every age, persuasion and palate. Dig a little deeper and you’ll unlock a whole treasure trove of activities and events.
We’ve put together a list of some of the most popular lesser-known activities to get your started on your journey of Yas discovery.
On Yas you can… master cool cooking skills
Not only can you dine on cuisines from all across the world at Yas Island’s 100 plus restaurants, you can also learn how to create delectable dishes. Shadow an executive chef at Yas Viceroy’s classic Italian restaurant Amici, and learn how to become “The Godfather of Pasta" in a master-class with Chef Angelo.
Where: Yas Viceroy hotel
When: First Tuesday of every month.
On Yas you can… realise your dreams
Gaming fan? Put down your console and instead live your favourite video game at Yas Mall’s SoftairBattlezone, where you can fight through an epic eight-level challenge. Aviation fans can step into the shoes of an Etihad pilot and ‘fly’ to one of over 24,000 airports across the world in Yas Mall’s iPilot simulator, which is so realistic it is used to train real pilots.
On Yas you can… have your dinner rushed to you on a rollercoaster
Boasting a variety of themed restaurants, dining is never dull on Yas Island. Watch your food gliding towards you on a rollercoaster rail at Yas Mall’s ROGO’s The Roller Coaster Restaurant, or eat in a Formula 1 race car chair from a table encasing racing star Lewis Hamilton’s driving suit at Yas Marina’s Stars N Bars.Ferrari World’s Il Podio not only caters to all tastes with Italian and Asian offerings, but makes food fun with interactive live cooking stations and theatrical food preparations.
On Yas you can… wake up like Prince Harry and go to sleep like Kanye West
Live the ultimate celebrity dream by chartering a yacht with Safwa Marine and hosting a cruise for your friends while witnessing Yas Island’s glorious coast.If it’s a bird’s eye view you’re after, take off in a Seaplane from the Yas Marina’s sparkling waters for an exquisite view of Yas Island and beyond. Whatever you choose, finish the evening in one of Yas Island’s countless cool rooftop bars or lounges.
Where: Safwa Marine &Seawings, Yas Marina
On Yas you can… see and swim with dolphins
Get back to nature with one of Captain Tony’s boat tours and discover the beauty of the island’s coasts and its inhabitants. The luckiest visitors have spotted frolicking dolphins during a boat tour which will take you along several points of interest, stopping at Dolphin Bay sandbank where you can swim and snorkel, and spot dolphin friends.
If you’re prepared to paddle, you will be rewarded during a Noukhada Adventure Company sunset or sunrise kayak tour. Drift through mangroves and get up close and personal with fascinating wildlife such as wild gazelles and herons.
Where: Noukhada Adventure Company, Yas Beach and Captain Tony’s, Yas Marina
On Yas you can… take a step back in time
Yas Viceroy’s Burlesque restaurant and lounge allows you to step into the past and enjoy a night of glamour and drama in an exquisite and theatrical setting where you can sip on cocktails while enjoying live entertainment from dancers, a live band and top DJs.
If you also think ‘the old ones are the best’ when it comes to cinema, then escape the heat in stylish surroundings at Iris in Yas Marina’s free movie nights, where you can enjoy old classics such as Singing in the Rain and Casablanca.
Where: Burlesque, Yas Viceroy hotel and Iris, Yas Marina.
When: Burlesque is open daily from 7:30pm. Movie nights are Tuesdays at 7:30pm.
On Yas you can… show us your talent
If you love being centre stage and can hold a tune, head to Yas Marina’s Stars N Bars open mic nights every Sunday from 8pm. If you’re happier out of the spotlight, enjoy covers performed by the diner’s live 5-man band, Sound City, every Friday from 9pm.
On Yas you can… feed your brain and your belly
Exercise your brain and enjoy food for thought at regular quiz nights Yas Links Golf Club’s Hickory’s sports bar. The event is free to attend, but guests may also choose to enjoy a scrumptious buffet for AED75.
When: Alternate Wednesdays at 8pm
On Yas you can… find time for a recharge
At Yas Viceroy’s award winning ESPA spa, take a 20-minute nap with MetroNaps and feel like you have slept for hours. Jet-age pods let you drift off as you listen to sleep-inducing sounds, then wake you with a gentle combination of light and vibration.
If it’s your skin that needs a boost, recharge at Radisson Blu where you can replenish your face with a unique rose facial, leaving you feeling as fresh as a daisy.
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