Take a walk on the Corniche
There’s no better time in the year than now to take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, so go and soak up the sunshine, breathe in the Gulf breeze and you’ll be feeling fresh as a daisy before you know it. Best of all, the Volvo Ocean Race Destination Village will be up and running, so take the chance to check out the boats and learn more about the grueling race in the fanzone area.
www.abudhabivolvooceanrace.com.
Hit the beach
If the only thing that makes you feel better after a heavy night is a refreshing dip in the sea, then you have numerous options in Abu Dhabi. Visiting the Public Beach on the Corniche is your cheapest choice, as entry is only Dhs10, and there’s bound to be a fun, family-friendly atmosphere on New Year’s Day. Alternatively, if you’re willing to fork out (and fancy treating yourself) then spend the day at one of the capital’s swankier beach clubs. The Hiltonia, Sheraton Abu Dhabi or Monte-Carlo Beach Club all offer wonderful views, stylish swimming pools and comfy sun loungers. Bliss!
Hilton Abu Dhabi (02 681 1900), Sheraton Abu Dhabi (02 677 3333), Monte-Carlo Beach Club Saadiyat (02 656 3500).
Go for brunch
This option probably won’t clear your head so much as make it hurt even more later on in the evening. But still, it’s a great way to round up any friends and family that you didn’t get to see the night before and spend a few hours catching up over one of the many delicious feasts that are being hosted around town. Opt for The Garden’s New Year’s Brunch if you don’t want to spend too much – it’s just Dhs215 which includes unlimited bubbly and Cuban mixed drinks in a variety of flavours. At the other end of the price scale is CuiScene at Fairmont Bab al Bahr. Their international buffet features favourites such as Dijon crusted rack of Australian lamb, a live Chinese sticky bun station and candied orange chocolate cake. If all that good food doesn’t help you recover from the night before, then lashings of French bubbly definitely will.
CuiScene, Dhs499 per person with French bubbly and Dhs299 without. 12:30pm-4pm, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr (02 654 3238). The Garden, Dhs215 including bubbly and mixed drinks, 12.30-4pm, Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi (02 616 6838).
