Being an all-round sporting supremo isn’t always easy, but I do try my hardest to keep up with the various Premier Leagues, T20s, Olympics, Six Nations and Grand Slams.
However, when it comes to birdies, eagles, putters, woods (and Woods) and bogeys, I have to be at the top of my game. Several of my clients are keen golfers and look to me for guidance on the best resorts and courses to consider for a break with friends and fellow club members.
I am fortunate to be well connected with some wonderful resorts and hotels around the world that meet my levels of expectation and I will be delighted to share some in due course (sorry).
I had to use the opportunity afforded here to introduce the simply gorgeous Oberoi Beach Resort Al Zorah in Ajman that I had the pleasure of visiting recently. Al Zorah is just a short drive from Dubai, but it could easily be an eternity away.
This is a thoughtfully designed retreat which encourages switching off and taking time out. Contemporary architecture, wide open spaces and a natural palette harmonise with panoramic ocean vistas and long white sand beaches.
Superlative accommodation, international cuisine with a focus on healthy, delicious combinations, personalised spa treatments, thrilling water sports and private beachside dining are all complemented by an intuitive service.
But guess what else? Al Zorah just so happens to offer a Jack Nicklaus designed championship golf course managed by Troon Golf.
In December of 2015, a truly unique layout spectacularly changed the golfing landscape in the UAE. A world-class course set amidst a stunning natural environment with flowing sand dunes, striking mangroves and a sense of sheer tranquility, the Al Zorah Golf Club offers exceptional playability, variety and a unique challenge with vast coastal areas and a constantly-changing tidal system altering the look and feel of the course on an hourly basis. I cannot recommend this place highly enough. It is a fantastic destination for a sunny break and some quality golf in the Gulf (I couldn’t resist it).