I have been posting about our getaway at Yas Island for 2 weeks. To end the series, I want to share some tips which I haven't mentioned on my previous posts. Yes, I've been saving the best for last.
Yas Island: Abu Dhabi's Leisure Zone |
Tip #1: getting to Yas Island via Public Transport
Road tripping to Yas Island from Dubai via the public bus is easy as 123. At Al Ghubaiba bus station in Dubai, we rode the E01 bus to Abu Dhabi. Bus fare is 25AED.
After 2 hours, we arrived at the Abu Dhabi Main Bus Terminal. To go to Yas Island, there are two options: take a taxi cab for 60AED or more, or take the public bus for only 2 AED.
We were not on a rush, so we decided to take the frugal way: via the public bus. From the bus terminal, we crossed the pedestrian overpass to the bus stop along the main road. Then, we checked the bus schedule and routes. Bus #180 and 185 goes to the Yas Plaza Hotels, where Radisson Blu and other hotels are.
Tip #2: Stay for a night
You can explore Yas Island for a day, but if you opt to have more time for rest and relaxation, then book an overnight stay at one of the hotels at Yas Plaza.
Yas Plaza Hotels: Rotana, Centro, Crowne Plaza, Staybridge, Park Inn and Radisson Blu |
Radisson Blu at Yas Plaza |
Tip #3: get discounts on Ferrari World official photos or get it for free
Taking photos at Ferrari World is not prohibited. But, there are areas where precious moments can only be captured by the park's official photographers. One photo is worth 75AED. You can get a discount when you buy more. All photos in a USB is worth 250AED.
To get a photo for free, make new friends! =) Ed found a friend during his roller coaster ride. His seatmate at Formula Rossa was so generous. He bought two photos and asked for Ed's email address so he can send copies to him.
Tip #4: go hotel-hopping
After dinner, we went for a stroll around Yas Island. We visited the Yas Viceroy Hotel which reminds me of Singapore's Esplanade. The hotel is near the Yas Marina Circuit where F1 races take place.
We took pictures of the futuristic-designed hotel and watched the fast cars zooming at the race track.
The night was still young, so we looked for a place to chill-out. I was craving for a cold drink and some dessert, while Ed wanted to relax with a glass of beer. I was so glad we found a place at Yas Island where we could have His and Hers "chill time". Though our ideas clashed, Island Cafe at Rotana Hotel catered both our cravings.
Yas Island Rotana |
our Chill-Out spot: quiet and not crowded (we like it that way!) |
quality time, well spent |
beer and nuts for him iced tea and strawberry cupcake for me |
So, that is how we chill... not in bars, no loud music, no tipsy moments. That seems to be pretty boring for a young couple, but for us, it was a great way to cap off a good day at Yas Island!
Tip #5: ask for a late check-out
Radisson Blu allows late check-out. Check-out times vary, depending on the availability. We were allowed to stay until 1pm. We were also given extra hours to use the pool after checking out, but we chose not to since it was scorching hot.
Tip #6: on going back to Dubai
It is easy to search for buses bound to Dubai at the main bus terminal. Green colored buses have routes within Abu Dhabi, while red ones, like bus E01 (shown in the photo below) are Dubai bound. Abu Dhabi to Dubai fare is cheaper, only at 15AED per person.
The Yas Island Series comes to an end.
Check out the links below if you have missed my previous posts.
As of the moment, another getaway within the UAE is brewing. If you have suggestions, feel free to post a comment. I would love to receive travel tips from you guys!
Hey, great post on Yas Island. We will be going to stay at Radisson Blu Yas Island as well soon - thinking November or so hee hee! Haven't been to the Yas Viceroy Hotel before, seen it from outside and it looks pretty cool ay. We were wondering what else to do during our trip there as we have been to Abu Dhabi (when we stayed at Rocco Forte) - but looks like there are lots of other places to do from your blog! :)
ReplyDeleteThat's great!! November is a busy month at Yas, concerts and F1 races. Viceroy looks good outside, white interiors seemed like a hospital though. hehehe! See for yourself and tell me what you think! hahahah!
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