Growing up in the nineties, Abu Dhabi wasn't somewhere on our holiday destination list.
It was always France, or Spain or Florida.
The United Arab Emirates wasn't even on the radar.
Why?
Well to be truthful it's probably because most of it didn't exist back then.
Those stunning skyscrapers and beach resorts you see today only popped up over the last decade or so, and even today the islands are very much still dominated by desert.
Abu Dhabi may still be in its youth, but it has a very exciting future ahead of it.
It is a place that has the potential give some of the most popular holiday destinations a run for their money, particularly in my opinion when it comes to families.
I mean, let's compare it to Florida, just briefly.
1) They both have theme parks
Orlando is obviously well known for being the home of the iconic Universal Studios and Disney, but Abu Dhabi has a fairly decent offering itself.
Yas Island is home to the likes of Ferrari World, the newly-opened Warner Bros World, and the Emirate-themed Yas Waterworld, which as well as more than 40 rides and slides, also holds the Guinness World Record for 'The Most Nationalities in a Swimming Pool' (102 - in case you were wondering).
2) They both have huge shopping malls
Florida has dozens of them. But Abu Dhabi has its fair share.
The Abu Dhabi Mall has a huge selection of western stores - from Mac make-up to Marc Jacobs, New Balance, Pull and Bear, even an Early Learning Centre.
Food-wise you've got a Dunkin' Donuts (very American), the usual fast food suspects - KFC, McDonald's, Subway - and of course for the Wagamama fans, it's got you covered.
3) They're both hot
If it's warm weather you're after, both can provide that - just be sure to wear your sun cream.
The average temperature in Orlando in April is around 29c, pretty toasty.
Abu Dhabi too hits the high 20s - with an average of around 27c.
During this month, the islands see around 11 hours of sunshine each day, perfect for relaxing on the beach or sightseeing.
Unlike Orlando which is inland, Abu Dhabi is right on the Persian Gulf and is home to some stunning beaches.
The water is nice and warm too - usually around 25c - so you won't have to worry about tip-toeing your way in.
Other similarities? Well there's no shortage of home comforts in either destination.
One of the first things I saw in Abu Dhabi was a Waitrose.
There was also an IKEA, Costa and an M&S.
The signs are in both Arabic and English, so those wanting to rent a car and explore will be able to do so with confidence.
However as westernised as Abu Dhabi is, it is a place that very much values its culture, and is very proud of it.
For that reason, when out in public, it is expected that you follow certain rules - for example, no public displays of affection, and dressing appropriately.
Also you can't drink alcohol unless it's in a licensed venue.
In the hotels and resorts this isn't really an issue.
You can wear what you like, and drink what you like, just remember to be respectful.
Things to do
Where to stay
Rixos Saadiyat Island is just 25 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, so you can be off the plane and into that pool in no time.
It is all inclusive - the first of its kind in Abu Dhabi - meaning you can eat and drink until your heart's content.
Be it poolside cocktails served by rollerblading waiters, or dinner in one of the resort's many restaurants, you'll struggle to find something to your taste.
For the fitness fanatics there's a gym, plus a large variety of exercise classes and activities, including paddleboarding, tennis, beach yoga - you can even sign up for a personal trainer.
To relax after your work out, the spa comes complete with a steam room, sauna, ice room and jacuzzi.
And if you've never experienced one before, you should definitely try a Turkish Hammam. My skin has never felt so smooth.
For kids there's Rixy Club which offers activities such as beach and pool games, treasure hunts, cinema and discos - everything needed to keep the little ones occupied.
Enjoy 7 nights at Rixos Saadiyat Island start at £2,440 per person in a Deluxe Garden View Room for an all-inclusive stay and flights with Etihad Airways. To book please visit www.destinology.co.uk or call 01204 823762, for reservations please visit saadiyatisland.rixos.com or call +90 216 444 1797.
