As this semester comes to a close and the endless hours of cramming for finals at the library commence, it is easy to become confined to the NYU Abu Dhabi bubble. While our campus does not lack when it comes to food, coffee, and great company, there is no harm in taking a couple of hours off and exploring what spots are a short few minutes walk away from you! D2, D1, and the marketplace make for great breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. However, you might find yourself taking only a few minutes to discover the beautiful food surrounding campus.

Cappucci is a hidden gem many need to be made aware of. It is ideal for both a dine-in experience and a getaway to study, as the gentle ambiance provides a great setup for either. Cappucci has a great dining environment, exquisite energy, some of the most delicious foods, and its sleek marble display is a sight for sore eyes. Its menu ranges from breakfast options like a classic avocado toast, to the potato waffle supreme. From a truffle risotto, the classic margherita, to a twist on typical alfredo pasta, Cappucci does not lack when it comes to Italian cuisine. Prices may be slightly higher, however there is a 15% discount for NYUAD students and one can definitely guarantee the quality.

For sushi lovers, you can indulge in various Asian foods at the Sushi Counter. A classic spot not unknown to NYUAD students, the Sushi Counter is great for lunch, dinner, or even a quick bite. However, I would not go as far as to say it is an ideal place to study, as it is a dine-in restaurant with a lively atmosphere and is usually best for dinner with friends. With exciting flavor combinations, Sushi Counter offers classics like the California roll or a Sake Sashimi, sushi burritos, poke bowls (ones you could build yourself!), and party platters.

Across the street from Sushi Counter is Saadiyat to Go Supermarket, a great mart to pick up a snack that you may have been craving but could not find in our convenience store. You can also pick up some fresh produce at the butcher and deli counter, bread and pastries at the bakery, and an array of fresh fruits and vegetables. Not only that, but the seating area right outside makes for a great location to have your morning coffee or a snack!

If you’re looking for the ideal study spot, Blacksmith is the place to be. It is a student favorite, and for a good reason. The interior is quite spacious, and is engulfed by wooden framing giving it a cozy vibe perfect for setting up your laptop and getting work done. The menu focuses on drinks, specifically coffee, and it does not lack in terms of creativity. From their Espresso Berry Tonic, to a Black Sesame Latte, or even a Date Cardamom Latte, you’ll be sure to find a new favorite drink of yours. For foodies, Blacksmith offers a variety of options, with no room for disappointment. Their menu includes a special grilled cheese and fig toastie, the smoked salmon sandwich, as well as a strawberry ricotta toast, the signature PB & Jam, and so much more.

To relieve some of that pent up stress from all the taxing deadlines and finals, take a trip down to Studio COE within a ten minute walk to free your mind. COE is a contemporary art-studio & Store focused on ceramics. It is a mindful space where you could indulge in the art of pottery and attend unique workshops. Workshops could be event specific such as for Valentine’s Day, or typical sessions like the introductory session or the glazing workshop where you work on enhancing your art. The prices vary, for instance the introductory workshop is AED 210, whereas the glazing session is for AED 105. But if you would like to attend four sessions and a creative experience that will take you through all the steps needed to create a finished piece, it will be at the price of AED 800. Bookings are all done through their website.

Art is not the only form of relaxing you can resort to, self care is another. If you’re looking for a place to pamper yourself and take time to destress post-finals, take a walk down to NY Ladies or Gents Barber shop and treat yourself to a new haircut or maybe even a facial! NY Ladies Lounge offers various services, from manicures and pedicures to massages and hair expertise. NY Gents Barbershop offers massages, grooming, and several other hair services. Another beauty salon in the heart of Saadiyat Island is Feels Beauty Lounge, a high-end salon offering various services where you could go fix up your hair, have your nails done, or maybe even indulge in a traditional Moroccan bath. While they do not take Falcon Dirhams as a payment option, they typically have offers and discounts on almost all services that go up to 40% off.

Between classes, projects, and daunting finals, it can be easy to forget that we live on an island surrounded by mesmerizing sparkling blue waters. So, if you have more time on your hands and want to go somewhere a few minutes cab ride away, Kai Beach is only a five-minute drive away, where you might enjoy soaking up the sun and spending moments of tranquility. This beauty embodies tropical exoticism, fusing the spectacular splendor of Saadiyat Island's pristine nature with a chic contemporary design. Kai Beach’s stunning location and high-quality services offer an exclusive ambiance with a healthy dose of island charm. It's the kind of place where you can quickly lose track of time. The facilities are open daily from 7 am until sunset. The entry price on weekdays at Kai Beach is AED 75 for adults and AED 35 for children (kids under five can enter for free). Whereas, during the weekend or on public holidays, entry fees are AED 95 for adults and AED 60 for children (kids under five can enter for free).

Ultimately, you do not need a car to be able to leave campus for a little while. Take a few minutes off your day and look around all that surrounds NYUAD; you might find your next treasured spot just right around the corner.