Gold on 27, Burj Al Arab, Dubai
“I can’t think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.” – Bill Bryson
The “7-star” hotel
Before heading to Dubai, Elaine mentioned she wanted to explore the 7-star, luxury hotel, the Burj Al Arab. At the time, I said I would be up for checking it out, but I could take it or leave it. Going to see a hotel was not high on my priority list.
Research
On our first day in Dubai, we asked our hotel concierge about visiting the Burj Al Arab. We were informed you cannot just walk in; you must have a reservation for entry. We had a night open for dinner, but the minimum spend was $400 per person. The most economical option was high tea for $200 per person. We did not want to spend a day drinking tea, nor did we want to spend that much money on tea or dinner. We needed to come up with a plan B. Off to Kite Beach we ventured, and the Burj Al Arab fell to our back burner.
Curiosity mounts
As I walked Kite Beach, I took pictures of the ocean and the Burj Al Arab’s distinctive sail-shaped silhouette in the distance. The architecture was very alluring, and I wanted to get closer. My curiosity was definitely piqued. I wanted to check out this famous landmark.
Strike out
That night, we dined at Pierchic. At the conclusion of our meal, I asked our waiter if he could call us into the hotel. He said he would be happy to help, but he was not sure how to. He grabbed someone who was senior to him. I explained how we really wanted to check out the hotel, but we would not be able to have dinner or tea there. Opening my eyes wide, I tilted my head downwards, locked my eyes on his, gave him a huge smile, and asked if he could put our name on a list. I threw all of my charms at him, hoping he would grant our wish.
My female charms did not work. He asked me if we were staying at the Al Qasr Hotel, but we were not. He would not assist. Now, I was really determined to find a plan B. I posted on Facebook to see if anyone in my network could help me gain entry. A few folks I knew had been there, but they could not help. We had one open night, Saturday. We needed to find a solution before then. Now, I was really determined to see the place. I did not want to leave the country without stepping foot inside, especially since everyone I knew who had been to Dubai appeared to have been there.
A solution emerges
When we went on our Dubai City Tour, we stumbled upon a solution. Some of the women in our group were going there for cocktails. They had booked reservations at Gold on 27. We checked out the place, and made reservations for Saturday night. The minimum spend was $55 per person, which was more affordable. To book a reservation, they require the minimum payment amount of $55 per person ahead of time.
Our adventure begins
On Saturday night, we ordered a cab, and off we went to the Burj Al Arab. When we arrived, the cab driver gave the guard our names and reservation. We were ushered inside the gates and greeted by lights, splendor, wealth, and a waterfall.
A taste of luxury
We wandered around the hotel, admiring the beautiful colors, fish, orchids, and architecture. Elaine and I people-watched, as we slowly made our way up to Gold on 27. We were intrigued as to what a “7-star” hotel was all about. Okay, so there is no such thing as a 7-star hotel, but they say the service at the Burj Al Arab is considered to be 7-star. Guests have private butlers, the gold in the rooms is real gold, a day at the Burj Al Arab can cost a cool $100,000, and celebrities land at the hotel using the private heliport. Those who stay at the most luxurious hotel in the world are certainly dripping with wealth.
Gold on 27 was had fantastic views of the ocean and city, and the venue had gold everywhere. I’m not talking about fake gold; I’m talking about real gold. We were led to our table, and given gold iPads, which served as our menu.
Tasty delights
I ordered the “Lamb Praline,” which consisted of ‘Shank, Parsley Crust, and Artichoke Emulsion,’ as well as the “Oysters and Pearls,” which was made of ‘Fine de Claire Oysters, Lettuce Foam, and Organic Sturgeon Caviar.’ Both dishes were delicious and hit the spot.
Time to go
When we were ready to leave, we decided to catch a cab outside of the gates, so we could catch the different views of this spectacular hotel. While we waited for our cab, we saw pedestrians get turned away when they tried to enter without a reservation. We were happy we figured things out as opposed to just showing up.
Epic evening
We had an amazing night out and experience visiting the Burj Al Arab. I’m so happy we did not give up when we were given really high entrance fees. Remember, when you travel, if you do not like the answer you receive, look for another option. Where there is a will, there is a way. Happy travels!
More blogs from this trip:
- Three Firemen and a Girl in Leopard Pajamas
- Touchdown: Dubai
- Dubai: Kite Beach
- Dubai: Pierchic, Where the Sun Kisses the Ocean
- The Dubai Fountain, The Dubai Mall
- Jumeirah Grand Mosque, Dubai: Open Doors. Open Minds.
- Alexandra Dhow Cruise in the Dubai Marina
- Dubai City Tour
- Red Dune Safari with Sand Boarding, UAE
- Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- The Dubai Frame, UAE
- Observatory Bar & Grill, Dubai Marina
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That’s so cool how you found a way! And very good advice– so glad you asked around so you didn’t get turned away. And glad you kept at it until you found a way! What a fun adventure!
Thank you! It was a lot of fun, and I’m happy we figured it out. 🙂