Paola Alberdi’s Honeymoon Guide to Abu Dhabi

As part of our Insiders’ Guide to the Globe series, we interviewed seven fashion and travel bloggers who’ve turned crisscrossing continents into their (enviable) jobs. With more than 15 million combined Instagram followers, it’s safe to say these ladies are posting from the hottest destinations. But where would they have their passports stamped when it’s time for a romantic vacay? Read on to find out about Paola Alberdi’s picks for an Abu Dhabi honeymoon!

The Traveler: Paola Alberdi (a.k.a. @blankitinerary)

The Blank Itinerary lifestyle blogger is known for many things, chief among them: a great sense of personal style, impeccable hair and makeup (she often partners with TRESemmé),
and an adorable husband, Hector Sosa, with whom she lives in San Diego (they also have a baby on the way!). Alberdi’s recent trips include: New York and Paris for fashion shows; Dunton Hot Springs, an insanely romantic lodge- and glamping-style retreat near Telluride, Colorado; and Mexico City, where she goes to reconnect with her Hispanic roots.

But where did Alberdi choose to spend her own honeymoon? Here are all the details.

The Destination: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

When most people think of Abu Dhabi, they envision towering skyscrapers, gleaming mosques and crazy-expensive resorts. But just beyond the city limits lies Rub’ al Khali (“Empty Quarter” in Arabic), the world’s largest contiguous sand desert. “The sunsets there are some of the most sublime I have ever witnessed,” says Alberdi, who chose this as the place to honeymoon with Hector in 2013.

Where to Stay: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

The 205-room Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara (from $300) is an oasis of turrets, palms, and plunge pools rising out of the dunes. “It’s like a fairy tale,” Alberdi says. Every earth-toned room opens out onto a balcony or terrace, but in-the-know-couples book the pool villas, which come with a butler, outdoor shower, and private pool.

Where to Eat

Ask your butler to set up a Bedouin-style feast of lamb kofta and shish taouk (chicken kebabs) on the dunes. “The dates are a must-try for dessert!” says Alberdi.

What to Do

Tear yourselves away from the spa’s authentic hammam (steam bath) long enough to check a few items off your bucket list: Channel your inner Katniss with archery lessons, watch a trained falcon hunt, or trek across the sand on a camel.