One of the biggest events of the European PGA tour, the Abu Dhabi Championship is the fourth leg of the European Tour season and the opening event of the three championships in the Gulf States; the Dubai Desert Classic and the Qatar Masters complete the trio known as the Desert Swing. Since its commencement in 2006, the championship has steadily continued to attract some of golf’s biggest names and is viewed by an estimated television audience of 400 million worldwide. The 2012 championship which was held from 26th to 29th January attracted a field that included the world’s highest ranked players and several holders of major titles. The championship organizers have continually upped the quality of facilities and amenities offered to players and spectators gaining recognition for the event that has laid the foundations for Abu Dhabi to be recognized as an international golfing destination. In 2011 the prize money was raised to US 2.7 million making it the richest golfing event amongst the Gulf states. The ever increasing number of golf enthusiasts who come to view the championship in person is a testament to the increasing interest in the event in the Gulf region and outside.

The Abu Dhabi Golf Club where the championship is held is a luxurious facility managed by a well known international luxury brand. The 162 ha property includes a club house overlooking the fairways in the shape of a falcon, two par 72 world class 18 hole courses featuring impeccable fairways, undulating terrain dotted with palm and ornamental trees and shrubs, seven saltwater lakes, 90 strategically placed bunkers, a driving range as well as generous putting and pitching greens. Also featured are a golf academy that holds classes for junior golfers, spectator facilities for up close viewing, a championship village with restaurants, cafes and other sports and leisure facilities. During the golf championship the village features a range of attractions and events for families including live performances. Very popular among golf fans is the Interactive Zone that allows visitors to test their golf technique.

As one of the world’s most prestigious championships the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship showcases golfing at its very best and provides an excellent sporting experience for the game’s many fans.

Enjoy an island getaway at the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara in Sir Bani Yas and experience tranquility as never before. Stay in spacious, elegantly decorated contemporary rooms and suites at one of the best Abu Dhabi resorts and experience its very special desert safari atmosphere and Arabic themed spaces. Take a desert safari, a walking tour or a bike ride around the island and get acquainted with the wildlife or spend relaxing days lazing on the beach, swimming in warm waters or sailing; so many interesting ways to spend a delicious weekend break at one of the exceptional luxury Abu Dhabi hotels.

The Maldives is a string of islands lying in the Indian Ocean and belonging to South Asia. This island nation is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations for the simple reason that it is a tropical paradise. One can witness nature at its best in the Maldive Islands, as it has many white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, beautiful greenery and an amazing underwater ecosystem.

Maldives is also popular amongst many tourists as it an excellent place for engaging in a variety of aqua sports as well. One of the aqua sports which is thrilling and extremely popular in the islands is windsurfing, an exciting sport that is sure to be exhilarating and memorable.

Windsurfing was introduced to the Maldives in the 1970s by Australian surfer Tony Hinde, and ever since then windsurfing has become one of the most popular sports in the waters of the Maldive Islands. One need not worry about the conditions of the waters before engaging in the sport, as the Maldives has almost perfect conditions for the activity. There are many waist deep lagoons in the islands with clear blue waters and soft white sand, the temperature of the water averages at a warm 26oC, the tropical sunlight provides clear vision and there are adequate breezes, which all add up to a safe and ideal location. Although windsurfing can be done right throughout the year, experts suggest the period between April and October to be the ideal season for windsurfing, with the months of July, August and September bringing the biggest waves. The conditions in certain areas are such that they cater to both amateur and veteran surfers, which means that anyone can partake in the excitement of windsurfing. There are many surfing schools in hotels and in the beaches of the Maldive Islands which provide lessons and windsurfing equipment, so even if you are a beginner, you can take a few lessons and hit the waves. Windsurfing surely is an exciting and truly refreshing experience, so when you are in the islands make sure you go rip the waves!

To experience the essence of tranquility in paradise, make a reservation at the Anantara Veli Maldives, a luxury Maldives resort. Providing accommodation in Maldives bungalows, ranging from spacious Over-Water Bungalows to charming Deluxe Over-Water Bungalows, the Anantara Veli Maldives also offers a variety of luxury services and facilities to make your stay comfortable and relaxing, which is only complemented by their excellence in hospitality.