Abi:original - If you aren't original, what are you?

It has been a special summer but what made it even brighter was a staycation at Centro Barsha. After a particularly busy week, a relaxing hotel stay was a heaven sent.  Centro Barsha is centrally located and about a six-minute walk from Sharaf DG metro station. It is just 8km from the Mall of the Emirates as well. The lobby of the hotel bears a stylish, uncluttered look. We were greeted by Faisan who was extremely efficient and kind. We could not wait to see our room.  Located on the 6 th  floor, our room had an attached suite. It truly felt like home. Not one, but two television sets spelt ‘excitement’ for my family. Finally, there would be no arguments on what we could watch on the telly.  Managed by the Rotana group, Centro Barsha pitches itself as a business hotel. The pricing is modest and there are 245 rooms in all. The hotel has a swimming pool which was the highlight of my stay. Situated on the rooftop, with a separate outdoor seating area...

By the pool side...Image by Abigail Mathias  For most people, a swimming pool may seem like just another place to unwind. To potter about when its not too hot. For my family it provided hours and hour of great memories. Our recent stay-cation at Millenium Aiport Hotel in Dubai provided loads of sun, some amount of sun-block, family hugs and laughs. We tend to take the most important things in life for granted. Fresh air and kind service is one of them. Like most people rushing on assignments, we too had a lot to do. It was just an overnight stay so we packed a few things (except the kitchen sink) and were soon on our way. As my children bathed in the sunlight of a warm Dubai day I knew, our summer had just started with a splash. We were treated to breakfast at Loumi restaurant. The staff was always on the move as we were there on a busy Friday morning, when the hotel is packed to capacity. Won't forget watching my daughter pour us a cup of fresh orange juicer h...