Hero's welcome

WITH NERVES OF STEEL, LISA CLARK TAKES ON ABU DHABI'S WILD RIDES AND HAS TIME TO REFLECT

- 

THRILLING theme parks, pristine beaches, marvellous museums, world-class hotels and under eight hours’ flying time, there’s much to like about Abu Dhabi.

With less bling than neighbouring Dubai, this forward-looking fun city is always on the go with spectacular architecture shaping the horizon and it’s a cultural feast for visitors.

THE STAY

I was not surprised to find our hotel, the outstanding WB (Warner Brothers), full of multi-generational families - it’s the ideal destination for such groups.

My hotel stay included a vast buffet breakfast and Warner Brothers characters mingling with delighted children. Each room has a superhero theme - mine was Superman - with a small merchandise shop in the lobby for more superhero kit.

The rooftop bar and pool (a child-free zone) is a glam way to polish off an evening, while on a lower level the large adults-only pool with its own bar was a haven of tranquillity.

I spent a happy afternoon there chilling and sampling smoothies.

On the ground floor the in-house Steakhouse was ideal for a special night out, while my massage with therapist Rosine in the spa was just the thing to banish jet lag.

Although not located on a beach, a short taxi ride (about £3) drops you at the hotel’s private beach club where you can relax on fine sand before dipping a toe into turquoise waters fringed by mangroves.

Both beach and water are pristine and there are a couple of cafes, a bar, boutiques and sunloungers aplenty. You can even hire a jet ski.

You're spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out... Yas Marina waterfront is home to many restaurants where you can sit inside or out overlooking the water. I particularly enjoyed Asia Asia, with scrumptious Chinese food, while Bushra has delicious Arabic fare and a talented belly dancer.

THE ACTION

Warner Bros. World