2 Bedroom Apartment in The Crescent, Palm Jumeirah

Some homes feel a bit like a pause button and this two bedroom apartment at The 8 on Palm Jumeirah really does that. The very first time I walked in, I had that funny little moment of just stopping to look at the view. You come through the front door and it opens up right away. On one side you have the guest bathroom and on the other side there is the maid's room. These are tucked away just right so the main living area stays open and inviting. You get this rush of natural light, honestly almost more than you'd expect, especially if you are used to city apartments.

It feels fresh in here, not overdone. The kitchen isn't just for show either. The counters have enough room to actually try your hand at a little pasta night, and the open plan sort of brings everyone together. I stood by the window and could see the sea change color as the day went on. The balcony pulls you outside without even trying. It's west facing so you get those proper Palm Jumeirah sunsets over the Arabian Gulf. Every evening looks a little different, the kind of thing you just keep finding new excuses to step outside and take another photo. You can hear a bit of the waves sometimes if you sit out here late enough. And you know what, it just feels easy.

You will pick up a kind of Miami style in the design here. It is clean and modern with those big curved shapes but it is not trying too hard. The architecture is smart. Everything is glass and light with wide open spaces. Whenever I have been at The 8, there is just this holiday feel running through the place. It comes down to the resort facilities, if I am honest. You get two huge beachfront pools, not just for laps but just for enjoying the afternoon. And the gym here is actually one people use, with all the right equipment. A lot of residents pop down early for a workout before heading out for the day. Sometimes people bring a coffee up from downstairs because there is a proper coffee shop right in the building. If you have guests or just want a change of pace, the open air restaurant and beach bar make it feel like a getaway even though you are basically still home.

And the best bit is, you have full access to the hotel style amenities. That means five star service. You notice that quiet sense of calm that comes with a well managed place, from the landscaping all the way to the lobby. Security's always around, but not in your face. Even if you are not a hotel person, having these extras so close actually takes a lot off your mind. This spot on the West Crescent feels peaceful. It is just close enough to everything but removed from the busiest areas. On weekends you will spot families out on the sand sometimes or kids on bikes in the evenings. Coming back after work you sort of forget you're in one of Dubai's busiest parts because the sunsets and that breeze make things slow down.

The apartment comes unfurnished, so you get to make it your own right away. The built up area is generous at 1387 square feet. Every part of it feels laid out for real living. Some people use the smaller bedroom as an office, others just keep it for family. Either way, it is a flexible space.

If you need a home that feels modern but still relaxed, with a proper sea view, this one on the Palm keeps getting it right. Photos only tell you a little bit. The only way you really know if it fits is to come walk through and see for yourself. Ask any question any time or just set up a visit. At LuxuryProperty.com we try to make every step feel like home.