15 minute read
Middle East: Desert
Globe hopping Middle East / 25
Desert delights
Encourage clients to pair Dubai with one of its Middle Eastern neighbours for a twin-centre that’s rich in culture, tradition and authenticity, says Ben West
The mighty 4X4 Toyota Land Cruiser plunges down a sand dune at great speed and a couple of us scream in response to this adrenaline-pumping rollercoaster experience. We grip any area of the vehicle’s interior we can as it slows down and teeters at the top of another dune at what seems to be an impossible angle.
This is my fi rst experience of ‘dune bashing’ and although scary it is immensely enjoyable. In the hands of an experienced driver, in a vehicle fi tted with protective gear such as a roll cage, and the tyre pressure reduced to allow for maximum traction against the moving sand, it is also very safe.
This experience is coupled with a desert safari, a night spent under the stars in a Bedouin tent after an evening of camel rides, a falconry display, belly dancers, sheesha smoking and a feast featuring camel meat curry.
It is a common excursion for Dubai holidaymakers – and indeed all the Middle Eastern destinations – and an alternative to exploring the city’s many attractions, mega-malls, restaurants, and perhaps skydiving, jet skiing and scuba diving.
However, even better than a fun-packed break in Dubai is a holiday combining another Middle Eastern destination too.
Dubai lends itself well to a two-centre holiday. Dubai International is the world’s busiest airport and services a large choice of fl ights. Its sheer popularity means that it has holidays at all price levels and types.
sultAn QAboos grAnd mosQue, omAn
dune buggY ride in dubAi
Globe hopping 26 / Middle East
“Dubai is an excellent twin-centre destination, due to the variety of routes off ered,” says James Golding, Director of Sales at Hayes and Jarvis.
“Dubai also provides a good introduction to the Middle East. For example, it is very easy to arrange a day out in the desert, a city tour or beach time at Jumeirah Beach. The emirate off ers a lot and has plenty that can be tailored, depending on the interests of the traveller.
“Agents can sell a twin-centre Middle East trip to travellers who might not otherwise have considered the region on its own, or
James golding, director of sales, hayes and Jarvis.
tAKing flight in AlulA, sAudi ArAbiA Al hAmriYA, muscAt, omAn the coVe rotAnA rAs Al KhAimAh beAch
see a trip just to Dubai as not adventurous enough. Combining two or more areas in the Middle East gives guests the chance to get a real feel for the region and all its diverse aspects – from the bright lights and luxury of Dubai to the more relaxed, local atmosphere of somewhere like Ras Al Khaimah.”
Says John Poulter, Destination Manager, East, at Gold Medal; “There are a multitude of fl ight and land connections to many destinations within the Middle East. Road transfers and local fl ight times are generally fairly short, so getting between places is easy and hassle free.”
Oman
Oman is a real contrast to Dubai. It feels a lot more traditional and low-key than the full-on ‘bling’ of the latter, with low-rise buildings, souks and shops the norm rather than awe-inspiring towers and gigantic malls. It boasts a rugged coastline, breathtaking wadis and lovely mountain villages.
“I’m a fan of Oman,” says Golding. “Our twin-centre tailor-made itineraries combining the UAE and Oman are popular among guests who want to optimize their time and yet still travel in a relaxed way. The mixture also shows how very diff erent the various regions and countries of the Middle East can be.” Sell it: Escape Worldwide has Dubai/ Oman packages, such as a £1,615pp 10-night option, where you can take in everything from Downtown Dubai to the stunning Hajar Mountains of Oman. escapeworldwide.co.uk
Ras al-Khaimah
It is only an hour or so up the coast from Dubai yet Ras al-Khaimah is a complete contrast and the perfect compliment to a city break. It has long stretches of beach and ease of access to the wondrous northern tip of the Rub al Khali (empty quarter) desert. As well as the malls and marketplaces, there’s beach bars, mountain ziplining and mangrove canoeing. Sell it: Gold Medal has a three nights Dubai and four nights Ras Al Khaimah package in September 2022, staying at the fi ve-star Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa in Dubai and fi ve-star InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa in Ras Al Khaimah, both half board. Includes transfers to and from Dubai international airport and inter-hotel transfer. From £1549pp. www.goldmedal.co.ukhayesandjarvis.co.uk
Saudi Arabia
As mainstream tourism is still in its infancy, Saudi is for now more suited to more adventurous travellers. Tourist visas were only widely available from 2019 and to set-up a dual-centre stay a bespoke package and itinerary must be arranged.
Saudi Arabia is kingdom that off ers astounding landscapes, important archaeological sites and a fascinating society that is undergoing change.
The Saudis are ploughing big resources into developing the tourism industry, with gigantic projects such as Neom and Amaala being developed. Top tip: Visitors should be advised that
Globe hopping Middle East / 27
A moonscApe feel At hegrA, sAudi ArAbiA
the bans on alcohol and photographing military installations, government buildings and palaces are non-negotiable. On matters of local etiquette, visitors should not point their finger at anyone they are talking to, not cross their legs or sit showing the undersides of their feet.
Abu Dhabi
Being 140km, or little more than an hour’s drive from Dubai, Abu Dhabi makes a really convenient choice for a twin-centred holiday. Abu Dhabi is generally more traditional and more peaceful, and its beaches even better than those found in Dubai. It still has considerably less tourists and ideal for those visitors wanting to immerse themselves in the Muslim culture.
It has superior mosques and museums, and the Presidential Palace, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and the Abu Dhabi Louvre are all to be recommended. Great desert oasis resorts include the Anantara Qasr al Sarab. Dubai is best for those who like to party, while Abu Dhabi has a more understated vibe. Sell it: Tropical Sky has a 10-day two-centre option in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with five nights at the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr and five nights at JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel, which is undergoing refurbishments including a new pool at JA Palm Tree Court, private plunge pools at JA Lake View and a new waterpark feature and splash pad. tropicalsky.co.uk
Qatar
One of Qatar’s attractions is that it’s not especially on the tourist map but still has facilities of a very high standard.
Its capital, Doha, is pleasantly small and easy to explore. The Museum
Abu dhAbi emirAtes pAlAce beAch
of Islamic Art is outstanding and has extensive displays of priceless artefacts. Conveniently, the striking building is right on the Corniche, a horseshoe-shaped promenade ideal for an evening stroll.
Other musts are a boat trip on a traditional dhow and a visit to the Souq Waqif market. There are mangroves, salt flats, huge sand dunes and a magical inland sea to also explore.
Emirates, Flydubai and Qatar Airways all fly direct from Dubai-International to Doha Hamad International Airport.
A wave of new hotels, theme parks, shops and major leisure projects have recently opened, or are set to launch. Top tip: Why not treat clients staying during the Fifa World Cup in December with a stay at three new resorts such as the Sofitel Dubai, The Obeliskin in Dubai and Le Royal Méridien in Doha. •
Vis it Central Flor ida
Globe hopping Sponsored feature / 29
Spectacular events
Central Florida’s Polk County has a packed calendar of events throughout the year. Here’s six that are perfect for the whole family…
Sky high
The annual six-day Sun ‘n Fun Aviation Air Show takes place each April in Lakeland on the south side of Lakeland Linder International Airport. From its humble beginnings in 1974 it has grown into one of the largest fly-in events in the world. The event’s daily and nightly air shows feature awe-inspiring displays from dozens of military and civilian performers. Plus aerobatics, a hot air balloon launch and plenty of aircraft to explore. flysnf.org
Water ways
The World Water Ski Show takes place in October in Winter Haven and will celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Water Ski. The 2022 IWWF World Water Ski Show Tournament will be the largest to date. Teams from across the globe will travel to Winter Haven, the “Water Ski Capital of the World,” to compete. Each team will perform a one-hour spectator-friendly show that combines entertainment with world-class athletics. worldwaterskishow.com
Horse play
Every Saturday Westgate River Ranch Resort near Lake Wales hosts a real-life rodeo. This long-standing tradition sees cowboys take to the arena for bull riding, calf roping and much more. Families can take part in horseback riding whilst kids can enjoy a real “calf scramble” and for braver visitors there’s the opportunity to ride a mechanical bull before enjoying a dance party outside the River Ranch Saloon! westgateresorts.com
Seasonal hits
Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales has a year-round calendar of events. Highlights include The Spring Bloom Festival from January through to April, The CenterState Concert Under the Stars series in March and April, and “Home for the Holidays” from November to January which sees El Retiro at Pinewood Estate completely transformed into a festive showplace. Enjoy carillon concerts daily at 1pm & 3pm. boktowergardens.org
Cheer on the tigers
Lakeland Flying Tigers, the Detroit Tiger’s A Affiliate team, play their Florida State League games at Joker Merchant Stadium in Lakeland - which has been their home since 1967. The local team play throughout August in the evenings which means you can catch a game during the summer holidays. Even if you don’t know the rules the crowd will soon have you cheering in unison. milb.com/lakeland
Celebrate the fourth
Beginning on July 2 through to the July 4, celebrations are held across Polk County, in Davenport, Auburndale, Haines City, Bartow and Dundee. Don’t miss Rockin’ Freedom Fest! with music, children’s activities, food trucks and a free water ski show. It wouldn’t be fourth of July without an amazing fireworks show. Celebrate at LEGOLAND® Florida with special 3D glasses that turn fireworks into exploding bricks. legoland.com
Globe hopping 30 / On location
Rethink Malta
Discover more Malta features at
sellingtravel.co.uk/articles
Not Just Travel agent Ushma Valerio joins a three-night Malta Academy trip and discovers a vibrant Mediterranean gem that’s anything but sleepy
When you work in the travel industry there is nothing better than being off ered the chance to familiarise yourself with a new destination. I was one of 30 lucky travel agents from the UK and Ireland to be hosted by Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) on a three-night Malta Academy trip – and it did not disappoint.
The academy was based on four key themes: gastronomy, history, adventure and luxury – a nice change from hours spent on hotel visits and a real chance to fully immerse ourselves in the destination.
There were so many activities to enjoy: a tour of Zafrana Boutique Winery, afternoon tea at the Corinthia Palace, a walking tour of the capital city, Valletta, dining at Gracy’s Boutique and a Tuk Tuk tour of Malta’s sister island Gozo with Yippee.
One of the highlights was dining at Michelin Star restaurant De Mondion, in the old town of Mdina, on the Gala Dinner evening. With incredible service, attention to detail and a fantastic menu, it’s clear to see why Malta is known for its gastronomy scene. The country’s farm to table philosophy was evident everywhere we visited, with the farms located close to the restaurants. We were lucky enough to enjoy this experience at Tulliera, where no produce is wasted and foraging is an art form.
Whilst you can while away hours people watching along the promenades and in the many bars and restaurants on the islands, it is also the perfect place to get out and explore: few things in Malta are more than 30-minutes apart. It is also easy to plan a twin-centre stay, with the neighbouring island of Gozo just a 25-minute ferry ride away from the mainland. A complete change in landscape – very lush and open – Gozo is perfect for adventure seekers with e-bike riding, Segways, archery and abseiling available. With the ease of a short three-hour fl ight from the UK, Malta is perfect for solo travellers or families with smaller children that want an alternative to Spain or Greece. Understanding that Valletta has cobbled streets and is quite steep in some areas is useful to know for those with walking issues – which is why a fourwheeled Rolling Geeks tour of the Three Cities could off er the perfect solution. Public transport is very easy to use and two euros will pretty much take you anywhere on the island (A oneweek tallinja bus pass costs 21 euros).
And Malta is far from the sleepy place it is often portrayed as: it’s a vibrant and undiscovered gem with huge music festivals attracting world-class DJs and scenery that features on blockbuster movies.
Malta has over 300 days of sunshine a year, so is ideal for a winter break or long weekend. It’s very inclusive and welcoming to all and has such a deep history.
To be able to experience a destination like Malta with the tourism board gave me a whole new perspective. visitmalta.com
MALTA
Live Big, Breathe Deep
City chic meets edgy opulence at the newly-opened Breathless Cancun Soul Resort & Spa in Mexico
Acosmopolitan beach experience awaits at this stylish, all-suite resort nestled between the Caribbean Sea and Nichupte Lagoon. Curate your vacation style as you Live Big and Breathe Deep at the newest hot spot and soul of Cancun.
Clad in sleek décor with neutral accents, this beachfront haven with 429 suites and two infi nity rooftop pools is the perfect destination for socially sophisticated travellers wanting to experience lively and luxe downtown vibes with relaxing and opulent beach views (just 25 minutes from the airport and two miles from the vibrant Cancun strip). It’s all in the details when it comes to our style and service, and we’ve thought of everything to make every Unlimited-Luxury® experience with us epic.
Soak in unmatched ocean and lagoon sunset views from one of our two connecting towers, each off ering their own unique vibe, so singles, couples, and friends (+18 years) can discover the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation blended to your liking. Live Big and become immersed in an eclectic entertainment scene at the xcelerate rooftop, complete with infi nity pool overlooking the spectacular white sands and turquoise waters of Cancun.
Unwind and Breathe Deep after a rejuvenating spa treatment at the twostory relax Spa by Pevonia® or zen out in our private yoga room. Or mix and mingle with friends in the Energy pool before the sunset soiree at the fi re pit plaza. A stay in one of the 429 junior suites includes a private balcony, breathtaking view and refi ned amenities for a memorable Unlimited-Luxury® experience.
Only the best
Everything is included – 24-hour room service, daily refreshed mini-bars, pool and beach wait services, and so much more. Plus, top-notch service ensures everything you need is just a tap away. For the ultimate VIP treatment, stay in our xhale club and indulge in upgraded amenities including an exclusive rooftop pool with incredible ocean and skyline views, a dedicated bar, and private lounge access.
Bon vivants can enjoy the inclusions of boundless exquisite eats and curated cocktails at 10 dining venues and 11 bars and lounges. An innovative entertainment lineup provides both daylife and nightlife at Breathless Cancun Soul. Spend the day snorkeling, kayaking and sailing in the Caribbean Sea or sunbathing by any of the Breathless Cancun Soul’s three pools.
The centrally located Energy pool off ers a mix of socialising and relaxing, the xhale club rooftop pool is ideal for reviving, and our one-and-only party pool at th e xcelerate tower features day parties, DJs and more. Join in on the action at night with live music shows, beach parties, acrobatic performances and mega dance parties.
Refresh your mind and body at nearby championship golf course or with a fi tness class at the state-of-the-art fi tness center with ocean and pool views.
Curate your own vacation style with a mix of entertainment and relaxation blended to your liking. amrcollection.com/en/resorts-hotels/ breathless/mexico/cancun-soul-resort-spa •
