Yoga and sea lions in the pearl of the Gulf

Dubai: It is not an aberration to say that the ever-changing landscape of

Dubai

has a lot to offer. Now, a lot is happening

underwater

in the metropolis.

Yoga

, already a fad in this part of the world, has gone underwater. And, Atlantis, The Palm took the plunge in offering the first-of-its-kind experience in the region. Imagine practicing Hatha Yoga, surrounded by 65,000

sea creatures

! That’s what the experience is at The Lost Chambers Aquarium here.

Classes are open for all with the catch being participants need to be aged above 16. They are aimed at improving strength, flexibility and balance, involving calming sequence of postures, breathing exercises and relaxation of body tension, says The Atlantis.

The world of

sea lions

While at The Atlantis, don’t miss the Sea Lion Point, where the residents are South African fur seals. Cuddle these mammals, which are found along the south and southwest coast of southern Africa, and be kissed by them. And to keep the memories, get the moment photographed. No, you don’t have to get into water for the photo-op.

Interestingly, the males at Sea Lion Point are referred to as bulls and the females cows. It takes 45 marine mammal specialists to take care of the fur seals. Most of them have degrees in marine biology, psychology and biological science, and spend nine hours a day, working on their relationship with the sea lions.

The Sea Lion Point family consumes an average of 5-10 kg of fish per day. That’s twice the amount 420 guests that dine at Ossiano, the seafood restaurant at Atlantis, each week.

Destination wedding

Over the years, Dubai has also emerged as a dream wedding destination. Ever thought of tying the knot against the backdrop of the iconic

Burj Khalifa

and The Dubai Foundation? If this enthuses you, then head to Palace Downtown, a great place for elegant weddings.

“At Palace Downtown, we love to host Indian weddings and being an award-winning property, taking accolades for honeymoon hotel, best spa, luxury wedding destination and luxury romantic hotel, we have become to go-destination for couples wishing to spend an incredible day,” says David Simon, general manager, Palace Downtown.

Think of an ocean-themed location, Atlantis, The Palm, sets the stage for a memorable nuptial. The first entertainment resort destination in the region has hosted a slew of international celebrities.

“With an array of stunning indoor and outdoor options, couples can choose to have a grand wedding of over 2,000 guests at The Asateer Tent or the Royal Beach to unique and intimate venues such as Ossiano, the award-winning underwater restaurant, The Lost Chambers Aquarium and The Royal Suite that enjoys an unparalleled view of The Palm and the ocean,” says Andrea Krenn, vice president, public relations, of Atlantis, the Palm.

This correspondent was in Dubai at the invitation of

Dubai Tourism