Top Summer Destinations
Bali bound
Beautiful beaches, exquisite temples, great food, tropical scenery and mighty volcanoes; the Indonesian island of Bali has it all. At the centre of the action sits the tranquil haven, Banyan Tree Ungasan, a cliff top resort on the tip of Bali’s southern peninsula, close to the island’s famed Uluwatu Temple. Not only is it the perfect retreat for spas, beaches and dining, it is also home to local experts, allowing guests to see the real side of Bali when they venture out of the resort. Room rates start from Dhs 1,542 per night for a Pool Villa with garden view, including breakfast for two people. Book the Night On Us and you enjoy complimentary night stays based on the number of nights they book. Packages are available until March 2017. Call +62-3613007000 or email reservations-ungasan@banyantree.com.
You stay, they pay
Get away from the heat at Fairmont Dubai with their Summercation offer. Book a Fairmont Room at Dhs 595 and get Dhs 200 hotel credit per night. Book a One-Bedroom Suite at Dhs 995 and get Dhs 300 hotel credit per night, or book a Two-Bedroom Suite at Dhs 1,595 and get Dhs 500 hotel credit per night. Hotel credit can be use for in-room dining, The Spa, room upgrades and restaurants. Call 04-3325555 or email dubai@fairmont.com.
Be a part of it
Experience New York at its finest in the city’s most luxurious accommodations including the new Legacy Suites at The Plaza with views of the changing seasons on Fifth Avenue and Central Park. Receive a third night free when you book and pay for two consecutive nights in a deluxe room. This is valid until 5th September and rates start from Dhs 2,000 per night in a Fairmont deluxe room. Call + 1-2127593000 or email plazareservation@fairmont.com.
Romantic Rome
The first Hotel in Europe to be part of the exclusive Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, the Rome Cavalieri is more than just a 5-star property. It is the pre-eminent luxury hotel in Rome with an art collection that outshines many museums, a Grand Spa that would be the envy of a prestige health resort and with standards of luxury that set it apart from other Rome hotels. Book your stay in one of the Rome Cavalieri suites and receive a $100 hotel reward for each night to use throughout the hotel. This is valid until the end of August 2016 and rates start from Dhs 3,200 per night. Call + 39-0635091.
Thai tempter
Those who may have visited Thailand during a gap year in their youth can now return for an altogether different experience at Banyan Tree Samui. Far away from full moon parties and hostels, the resort provides a luxurious base for travellers looking to embrace the vibrant spirituality, flavours, sights and sounds of this beautiful Thai island, without compromising on service or comfort. The ‘Credit Goes to You’ package is available from Dhs 3,168 per villa per night staying in a Deluxe Pool Villa. The package includes daily breakfast buffet and hotel credits worth USD 200 (approximately Dhs 734) redeemable at the restaurants, award-winning Spa and Gallery. The offer is available for bookings until 17th December and for stays until 21st December. Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.banyantree.com.
The pearl of the Swiss Riviera
Nestled between the Alps and Lake Geneva, Montreux enjoys a stunning location and more tempered micro-climate. Fairmont Le Montreux Palace is a palace as resplendent as the city it calls home and with rates starting from Dhs 3,300 per night in a suite, for every suite booking, guests will be given a Montreux Riviera Card to enjoy the convenience of public transport. This is valid till 31st March 2017. Email reservation.montreux@fairmont.com or call +41-219621100.
Tropical paradise
Just a short 15 minute flight from Mahé, the island of Praslin is at the heart of all major activities in and around the archipelago, including one of the best beaches in the world, Anse Lazio. Close to Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Curieuse Island, home to 500 giant tortoises and La Digue, famous for its breathtaking beaches, Raffles Seychelles enjoys a prime position in the heart of the Indian Ocean. The World & You promotion offers 20% off the villa rate with an Eid getaway that includes daily breakfast in Losean restaurant. This is valid for stays before 30th September 2016 and rates start at Dhs 1,800 per night, after discount. Email praslin@raffles.com or call +800 1 7233537.
A summer of fun
Who says you have to leave Abu Dhabi during the summer months? The Emirates Palace has partnered with the Abu Dhabi Summer Season to bring you a line-up of entertainment so grand, it can only be described as palatial. Take your lizard lovers to Dinosaur Zoo Live where they can not only walk with dinosaurs, they can get up close and personal with their favourite prehistoric beasts. Then prepare to be awed by British illusionist Jamie Raven whose box of tricks will leave viewers questioning the very notion of what’s real and what’s an illusion. If you enjoy song and dance from India, take in Shaan, the most recognisable Indian playback singer in the world. Then, for the first time ever in Abu Dhabi, let comedy royalty, the Wayans Brothers, entertain you with a stand up show so hilarious it will leave you in stitches. With amazing rates up to 25% off the best available rate including a lavish buffet breakfast, Emirates Palace promises to be your ideal family getaway. Call 02-6908888 or email reservations@emiratespalace.ae.
Mountain retreat
Set against a dramatic backdrop with the rugged Al Hajar Mountains and the pristine Sea of Oman, with 200 acres of lush beachfront and gardens, a 50-meter infinity pool, and the longest private beach in Muscat, Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel offers a perfect combination of unforgettable experiences and comfort, making for a memorable family getaway in Muscat this summer. The Summer Package invites you to enjoy a three-night stay when you pay for two (the free night will be reflected as a 33% discount on each night). Additional benefits include complimentary accommodation and dining for up to two children under the age of 12, daily breakfast, 20% savings in select hotel restaurants (30% savings for Ritz-Carlton Rewards members), 25% savings on select spa treatments, Ritz Kids activities, and free WiFi. The package is available for stays between 15th May and 17th September. Call +968 24 799 666 or email reservationsalbustan@ritzcarlton.com.
San Francisco bound
Fairmont San Francisco presents an awe-inspiring picture of historic San Francisco. The grandeur of the luxury hotel atop Nob Hill coupled with its reputation for impeccable service promises a truly memorable experience during your San Francisco vacation. Take advantage of your extended stay in San Francisco with the Third Night Free Promotion and stay for two nights and get the third night free. This is valid until December 2016 with rates starting from Dhs 1,100 per night in a Fairmont double room. Call + 1 415 772 5000 or email sanfrancisco@fairmont.com.
Bali bliss
Fairmont Sanur Beach Bali is a world-class all-suite-and-villa luxury resort set amidst four hectares of lush tropical gardens. Only 25 minutes from the Ngurah Rai International Airport, the property is located on a golden beach in the Sanur district in southeast Bali. Once a fishing village, Sanur is today full of historical charm and a hub for Balinese art, culture and tradition well away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the island. The Suite Rooms Offer includes 50% off the Daily Rate for a second room, daily breakfast and one lunch, return airport transfer, mini-bar (non-alcoholic beverages), shuttle service and bicycle rental (subject to availability). This is valid from 1st July to 18th September and rates start at Dhs 1,600 per night in a suite. Call + 62 361 3011 888 or email bal.reservations@fairmont.com.
Best of the best
The Fairmont Monte Carlo hotel is a unique four-star luxury resort located in the heart of the Principality of Monaco in between the Mediterranean Sea and the legendary Casino. This summer, experience Nikki Beach on the rooftop of the Fairmont Monte Carlo, the most picture-perfect location with the most stunning panoramic views of the Med. For Eid, you can enjoy the Nikki Beach Amazing VIP package including first line sun beds (up to four persons) by the pool with one bottle of Champagne and fresh fruits on the rocks, and guaranteed table reservation for lunch or dinner at the Nikki Beach restaurant. This is valid until 30th September, a three-day booking in advance is requested, and rates start from Dhs 2,000 per night in a Fairmont double room. Call + 377 93 50 65 00 or email montecarlo@fairmont.com.
Take a break
Al Raha Beach Resort offers a memorable staycation where for bookings of a minimum stay of two nights, guests will receive a 50% discount on booking rates. Additionally, in-house guests can indulge in an exclusive 20% discount from Sevilla Restaurant, Azur and new hotspot, Wanasah lounge. Room rates start at Dhs 444 and terms and conditions apply. Call 02-5080555.
Ooh la la!
Summer is one of the best times to visit Paris and escape the heat of the Middle East. The weather is perfect for strolling outside and enjoying the sites that Paris has to offer, and with Hilton Summer Sale room rates starting from Dhs 1,040 including complimentary breakfast and return flights priced from Dhs 3,050 – what more can you ask for? Call +33 (0) 1 40 08 44 44, email parisopera.sales@hilton.com or visit www.hiltonparisopera.com.
Out of town
Guests are welcomed to an amazing summer getaway at the Danat Al Ain Resort with rates starting at Dhs 259 per night. The package includes breakfast for two adults and two children as well as 25% discount at Luce and Tanjore restaurants. This package is valid until 31st August 2016. Visit www.alain.danathotels.com or call 03-7046000.
The magic of Malaysia
Escape to a secluded tropical island and get 20 to 50% discount at the two five-star, all-villa resorts on Gaya Island, off the coast of Kota Kinabalu in Malaysian Borneo whilst enjoying a holiday with a conscience. The Gayana Eco Resort Summer Promotion includes 35% off second and third nights for all room categories from 1st July to 31st August 2016; or 50% off second and third nights for all room categories from 1st September to 30th November 2016. The Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa offer includes 20% off second and third nights for all room categories from 1st July to 31 August 2016; or 30% off second and third nights for all room categories from 1st September to 30th November 2016. Discounted nights are inclusive of breakfast and terms and conditions apply. Visit www.bungarayaresort.com.
Creating memories
Fairmont Ajman understands the unique needs of parents and is prepared to make every child’s stay magical. Enjoy 50% off a kids’ room including breakfast. In addition, kids aged 12 and under eat free from the kids’ menu when accompanied by a dining adult during the stay (maximum three children). Additional kids can dine from children’s menu at regular rates. This is valid until 25th December 2016 and rates start from Dhs 900 per night to include double room and saving on kids room. Call 06-7015757 or email ajman@fairmont.com.
Five-star flair
Stay, dine and spa at the award-winning The Sun SiyamIruFushi, located among the unspoiled islands of Noonu Atoll in the Maldives, from just US$275 per night, bed and breakfast, for a family of four this summer. From now until October, you can enjoy a Deluxe Beach Villa featuring an outdoor cabana, a swimming pool, a terrace and day bed, with plenty of room for two adults and two children. For a dining supplement of US$145 per person per night, enjoy The Sun SiyamIruFushi’s all-inclusive package, including lunch and dinner in a choice of 10 restaurants. Visit www.thesunsiyam.com/irufushi or call +960 300 0868for reservations.
Take a break
Oryx Hotel Abu Dhabi has introduced summer rates starting from only Dhs 275 for UAE and GCC residents. The package includes an elaborate breakfast buffet among multiple complimentary facilities. Visit www.oryx-danathotels.com to learn more.
Mediterranean getaway
Canyon Ranch has been a name in the United States for nearly 40 years and what began in Tucson, Arizona has since received international acclaim, and now the brand’s very first destination outside of the US is opening in Turkey. Canyon Ranch Wellness Resort at Kaplankaya has packages that include the Discovery Package (room fee for two people for five nights of Euro 6,765 including daily Spa and Health & Healing credit of Euro 160 per day/per person). For more details, visit www.canyonranch.com/kaplankaya.
Summer in the city
This summer look no further than Vida Downtown Dubai for a haven of relaxation, modern luxury and culinary delights. Sunny Summer Staycations include Stay 2 Nights (15% off the Best Available Rate and 15% off food and beverage, and free Wi-Fi), Stay 3 Nights (20% off the Best Available Rate and 20% off food and beverage, and free Wi-Fi), or Stay 4 Nights (25% off the Best Available Rate and 25% off food and beverage, and free Wi-Fi). This is valid until 30th September 2016. Call 04-4238899.
Packed with fun
Looking for championship golf, 5-star spa treatments, award-winning dining, hiking, horseback riding, coastal canyon activities and poolside relaxation? Head for San Diego’s Fairmont Grand Del Mar and book four consecutive nights, and your fourth night is complimentary. This is valid until 3rd September 2016 with rates starting from Dhs 1,600 per night in a Fairmont double room. Call + 1 858 314 2000 or email granddelmar@fairmont.com.
A grand offer
Grand Millennium Dubai is offering an enticing room rate for the summer where guests can enjoy a Superior Room from Dhs 365 inclusive of breakfast and Wi-Fi until the end of August. Email fbreservations.gmhd@millenniumhotels.com or call 04-4299999.
Beat the heat
Enjoy a summer getaway at Tilal Liwa Hotel starting from Dhs 249. The summer savings package includes a buffet breakfast for two adults and two children less than 12 years of age as well as 20% off food and beverage (excluding alcohol) and 25% off massage treatments. The offer has been exclusively designed for UAE and GCC residents, is valid until 15th September and rooms are subject to availability. Visit www.tilalliwa.danathotels.com.
Editor's Top 5 picks for an epic summer escape!
Whilst temperatures are still nice and cool in Dubai, this will sadly not last much longer, and you know what happens come summer time. So start preparing to escape the heat and head to cooler climates and enjoy an epic summer. We tasked Lightfoot Travel with finding us their 5 favourite destinations for great adventures and lovely weather.
Central Vietnam
For an Asian escape that is still off of everyone’s radar, the winning trio Hue, Hoi An and Danang is always a good idea. The Imperial City of Hue is perfect for culture junkies whilst picturesque and colonial Hoi An is bound to take your breath away. And if you need a beach break, Danang has just what you need: beautiful beach side resorts, boasting white sand and blue seas. Whilst in Central Vietnam, you must sample the divine cuisine and pick some high quality silks and perhaps get a tailor-made suit. Relaxation, culture, shopping and tasty food; what more could you need?
New Zealand
The Land of the Long White Cloud, or Middle Earth for others, is known for its exciting activities. Come wintertime, Queenstown, the Adventure Capital of the world, offers exhilarating activities such as heli-skiing, high-speed jetboating on the river, bungy jumping and more. If you don’t have the heart for adrenaline-pumping activities, there is much to be experienced in the rest of New Zealand that does not require screaming at the top of your lungs. Go wildlife spotting in Kaikoura (baby seals and whales), sample some of the country’s best wines and delectable cuisine, experience glacier hiking and take in the natural beauty all around. New Zealand has something for everyone.
Iceland
With long sun-filled days and clean, crisp air, Iceland is just what the doctor ordered for a rejuvenating, exciting and memorable summer. Not only is this secluded island a magical place, it also happens to be filled with jaw-dropping landscapes ranging from mountains to lakes and glaciers to geysers. Travellers heading to Iceland do not just fall in love with the abundant natural beauty but also the warmth and generosity of the locals.
The Amazon
Diving deep into the Earth’s lung is a unique thrill and one that many consider a once-in-a-lifetime trip. The 4,400-mile long Amazon River is bursting with wildlife, plants native to the region and remote tribes. Explore the region aboard a private luxury vessel and spot the local (pink) dolphins, caiman crocodiles, toucans, lounge on one of the river’s white sandy beaches (once described as the Caribbean of the Amazon by Jacques Costeau), canoe through a flooded forest and take in Mother Nature’s wonderful work.
Lombok
An alternative to bustling Bali is its sister island, Lombok, located just 35 kilometres East. With its gleaming white beaches, water sports activities and laid-back vibe, it is a wonderful choice for those wanting to have the options of both relaxation and activity during their summer break. The beaches of the Gili Islands are a short boat ride away and if you want to challenge yourself a little, why not attempt hiking up Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second highest volcano boasting hot spring and a stunning crater lake. Surfers, the island is blessed with epic breaks minus the crowds of Bali: heavenly!