Image: InterContinental Taba Heights Resort
And relAx... We know how precious your holidays are. That’s why we work tirelessly to provide you with exquisite, life-affirming experiences, so you can come home happy, rested and inspired from your holiday. We’ve got outstanding resorts in stunning and interesting destinations from the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean. We pride ourselves on our local knowledge and experience: whether you’re exploring the ancient and modern wonders of Egypt or preparing to take your first scuba dive, your perfect break starts here... 4 Where We Have Resorts Egypt 6 Top 20 Egyptian experiences 12 InterContinental Taba Heights Resort 13 InterContinental The Palace Port Ghalib Resort 14 InterContinental Abu Soma Resort 15 Crowne Plaza Sahara Sands Port Ghalib Resort 16 Crowne Plaza Sahara Oasis Port Ghalib Resort Mauritius 17 InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort Jordan 18 InterContinental Aqaba Resort 19 Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea 20 Crowne Plaza Resort Petra 21 Crowne Plaza Jordan Dead Sea Resort & Spa Lebanon 22 InterContinental Mzaar Lebanon Mountain Resort & Spa Oman 23 Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 24 Holiday Inn Resort Half Moon Bay
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Where We Have Resorts It’s time to find your dream location, whether you’re looking for culture, relaxation or fun family activities... We pick our resort locations
you can lose yourself for an entire
you can bathe in mineral-intense
with care, and each has its own
day, wandering around with wide
warm waters. And when it comes
charms and attractions. If you’re
eyes and with your camera on
to getting out into the wild, the
in the mood for getting out into
permanent standby.
magnificent Wadi Rum is one of
nature, experiencing a wonderful,
Jordan is also blessed with
those true must-see experiences.
welcoming culture and soaking
shorelines on the Red Sea and the
Awe-inspiring in its size, it bears
up plenty of sunshine, you should
Dead Sea, which means that its
the traces of ancient civilisations in
set your sights on Jordan. This
watersports are second to none.
its rock paintings, and is a superb
country is home to Hellenistic and
Laidback days of relaxation on
spot for hikes, hot air balloon trips,
Nabatean cities – including the
the beach are alternated with
horse-riding, 4x4 tours and even
wondrous rose red city of Petra
canoeing, kayaking, jet-skiing,
gliding. Just as impressive are the
– and dozens of world heritage
banana-boating, diving and all
other nature reserves which dot
sites. The incredible Greco-Roman
the myriad aquatic joys available
the country, including the Mujib
ruins at Jerash are a wonder to
in crystal clear waters. Just near
Reserve, known for its superb
behold – excellently preserved,
the Dead Sea are the Ma’in Hot
nature-watching opportunities and
they make for the kind of place
Springs (Hammamat Ma’in) where
bio-diversity: this is one of the few
4
Opposite page: Beach in Mauritius; This page, from top to bottom: Ancient temple of philae; Camel minder at Pyramids of Giza; Mohamed Ali Mosque.
herbs, and served perfectly tender
rains sweep through, lowering
with mountains of rice. Wonderful.
the temperature and covering the
Egpyt, too, has a huge amount
landscape in rich green vegetations
to offer visitors. Like Jordan it
and flowers. Combine it with
has its own delightful stretch of
an annual festival to celebrate
Red Sea coastline, which boasts
the occasion and you have a
a kaleidoscope of exotic sealife
guaranteed winner of a holiday
and ancient coral reefs. It’s also
destination.
perfect for families as well as
The nation of Lebanon packs
couples – alongside the imposing
an astonishing amount of diversity
sights it has myriad activities and
into a relatively small area. This
adventures for you to embark on
is the country in which, famously,
(see p6 for our pick of the best).
in the winter, you can ski in the
Another destination with a lot
morning and be on the beach in
going for it is Mauritius. This quirky
the afternoon. In the summer there
island is home to exceptional
are dozens of excellent festivals,
natural beauty, from towering
including cultural gems like the
green peaks to picture-perfect
Baalbeck International Festival and
coves, and from powdery white
the Tyre and South Festival. Other
beaches to national parks where
activities include visiting Byblos,
pink pigeons flit above your head
the home of the alphabet, where
and the scent of hibiscus fills the
‘Jordan is blessed with shorelines on the Red Sea and the Dead Sea, which means that its watersports are second to none’
air. The national Creole culture is a lovely mix of French, African and Indian, and sits perfectly alongside the stately trappings of its colonial past, including the statue-lined capital of Port Louis. A wonderful
you’ll find an amazingly complete
blend of international flavours
set of Roman ruins; shopping in the
comes through too in the national
high class boutiques and strolling
dance, the Sega, and the exciting,
the Parisian-style boulevards
chili-fuelled cuisine.
of Beirut’s Downtown area; and
Oman intrigues visitors with
indulging yourself in some of the region’s finest cuisine.
places in the world where you can
its long, uncrowded coastline, its
catch a glimpse of the magnificent
beautiful beaches where turtles
Horned Ibex.
come to give birth (there are few
of Saudi Arabia. An increasing
Finally there’s the Kingdom
Jordan’s towns and cities are
sights more awe-inspiring than
number of international tourists
filled with top options for visitors.
watching dozens of baby turtles
are visiting the Kingdom, and if
The souks are lined with superb
crawling their way towards the sea)
you live there already you’ll find
local handicrafts, from jewellery to
and the bewitching charms of the
that there’s so much to explore in
furniture, and are the ideal place
ancient capital of Muscat. Down in
your own country – the intriguing
to pick up some bargains after
the Dhofar region in the south of
diversity on offer means you can
a friendly session of haggling.
the country lies Salalah, a favourite
have an inspiring family holiday.
Jordanian food is delicious and the
escape when the summertime heat
Some of the highlights include the
nation’s restaurants are excellent
of the Gulf becomes too much to
lovely waterside city of Jeddah and
and affordable – don’t miss out on
bear: during the Khareef season,
the UNESCO World Heritage site
the national dish of Mansaf lamb,
the countryside in this area springs
of Mada’in Saleh, which rivals Petra
which is cooked with yoghurt and
into verdant life as sub-tropical
for its beauty. 5
Experience Egypt egypt is rightfully known for the incredible richness of its heritage – but it also has wonderful modern attractions. It’s this powerful blend of old and new, along with the warmth of the egyptian welcome, that makes it such an unbeatable holiday spot. Here’s our pick of the best things to see and do... MEEt dOLpHinS At WAdi GEMAL Just outside Marsa Alam, home to Port Ghalib, is the Wadi Gemal nature reserve, where you can see dolphins at play, and get up close to them. They’re far from being the sole attraction though – you’ll also run into dugongs and turtles, gazelles, ibexes and slate falcons. The reserve has a great diversity of habitats – you can see indigenous wildlife in mangrove swamps, coral reefs, salt marshes and palm groves as well as in the wadi itself. For a real experience, take a tour with the Ababde tribespeople who act as guides, and accept their hospitality in their tented encampment. EnJOy A SHOppinG SpREE At CityStARS Citystars is a huge development in Cairo which combines residential accommodation with hotels (including the lovely InterContinental Cairo Citystars) and shopping. The Stars Centre mall has no fewer than 643 stores – work your way around the likes of Morgan, Vero Moda, XOXO, Hugo Boss and Karen Millen, before unwinding in one of the myriad restaurants and cafes or catching an art show at the exhibition centre. If you’re with your kids, they’ll love the gigantic theme 6
park, Magic Galaxy, the largest of
charged quad bike. And you
its kind in the country, which has
can do this when staying at the
video games, bumper cars and its
InterContinental Taba Heights.
very own indoor rollercoaster.
You’ll get a full briefing and practice session before you start,
SnORKEL On Giftun iSLAnd
after which you’ll follow a leader
When you’re staying a the fabulous
around the picturesque landscape,
InterContinental Abu Soma
passing the occasional group of
Resort, you must make time to
camels along the way. When you
take a trip out to Giftun Island.
stop for a break you can revel in
It’s a protected, untouched haven
the calm and quiet of the area,
where the beaches are spacious
before remounting your trusty
and dotted with beautiful shells,
four-wheeler. Lots of different
the water clear and the coral
tour companies operate quad bike
astonishing. You don’t have to
trips, some including a delicious
snorkel far offshore to see the most
barbecue meal en route: your
incredible underwater sights and
concierge will be delighted to book
thousands of fish. Your kids will
you onto a trip.
Opposite page: Snorkeling. This page, from top to bottom: Statue of Ramesses II; Desert fun on quadbike.
love this place – it’s like a pictureperfect desert island, but with
tAKE yOuR fAMiLy
the added advantage of nice little
SAndbOARdinG
cafes where you can stop in and
Like snowboarding? Love
enjoy a lovely lunch.
wakeboarding? Then you’ll adore sandboarding. Get everyone
GO quAd-biKinG in tHE SinAi
equipped with boots and special
MOuntAinS
boards and head out into the
There are few things more
desert on an organised tour to
exhilarating than zipping around
tackle the dunes. You’ll start from
the canyons, wadis and dunes of
as high up as 300 metres and
the Sinai foothills on a turbo-
glide your way down with all the
MoMentS to ReMeMbeR: #1 Taking a sailing trip in a felucca A sailboat veteran describes the fun he had while cruising down the egyptian coast. “I’ve sailed in many countries across the world, but the experience I had in egypt has to rank among my absolute favourites. everything was perfect: the weather, the scenery, even the company – I went on a tour with a group of people I’d never met before and we soon became firm friends. the biggest treat was to be able to try sailing a felucca, a traditional egyptian sailing boat, which had long been an ambition of mine. once we had settled into the rythmn of the boat and everyone had got used to their tasks, we had the most relaxing time, weaving in and out of the shoreline and anchoring up at regular intervals to go swimming off the side. It was a truly magical experience.” Gerhard Stromberg. 7
elegance you can muster. It’s a
resort – a short safari trip out to the
surreal, invigorating activity which
extraordinary Coloured Canyon,
will leave you with a permanent
an other-worldly spot where
grin on your face.
technicoloured rock formations as old as time make for a fascinating
JuMp On tHE dAy bOAt tO
exploratory trek.
ELpHinStOnE REEf In an area blessed with world class
viSit pHARAOH’S iSLAnd
diving spots Elphinstone Reef,
If you’re staying in Taba Heights,
off the coast of Marsa Alam, still
you should definitely make time to
stands out from the crowd. Your
visit Pharaoh’s Island, also known
guide will position you perfectly
as Coral Island. Located in the Gulf
to make the most of the day’s
of Aqaba, off the Sinai Peninsula,
currents and minimise the amount
it’s home to an impressive 12th
of effort you need to make to see
century fortress built by Baldwin
the best parts of the reef: expect
I. It’s a place that’s filled with a
to see amazing sights including
fascinating history – talk to the
turtles gliding between astonishing
guides who will give you some real
cliffs of coral.
insights – and the cruise over there from the mainland is a great time
MARvEL At tHE AWESOME
to soak up some sun and take in
COLOuREd CAnyOn
the view.
A major touristic treat is at
8
hand for anyone staying at the
HAGGLE At KHAn EL-KHALiLi
InterContinental Taba Heights
For an ancient-meets-modern
Opposite page, top to bottom: Philae Island; Desert camping; Bargaining in the Bazaar. This page: Cairo skyline.
MoMentS to ReMeMbeR: #2 Relaxing in Soho Square “I’d been told about Soho Square in Sharm el Sheikh by some friends, so during our holiday I decided to take my family there for the day. they loved it! We strolled around this beautiful pedestrian development in the sunshine, stopping in at shops and lovely outdoor cafes and enjoying the live entertainment and the fountains and water features. the children went ice skating and hung out at the kids’ arcade where they played on funfair rides and video games before we all went bowling together. then we paid a visit to ‘Culturama’ where we saw a multimedia program which told us all about egypitan history from 3000 bC onwards. We finished with a fantastic meal at seafood restaurant Poisson Marché. I highly recommend it!” Françoise Durand.
experience in Cairo, you can’t beat
and taken out for a 50 minute
this huge open-air market which
underwater tour on this 44-seater
sells excellent souvenirs, jewellery
submarine. The all-round windows
and spice. As you wander down
mean you’ll have fantastic views of
its packed streets, you’ll feel your
the Red Sea’s stunning inhabitants,
eye drawn in every direction, as
with expert commentary from your
wares spill out of every shopfront
guide. Make sure to bring your
and on to the pavement. It has
camera – the shots you can get
been running for centuries but has
from this sub are sensational.
been modernised over the years, with smart new boutiques and
tAKE A SunSEt tOuR intO tHE
cafes among the more traditional
EAStERn dESERt
offerings. One thing that hasn’t
Visitors to Marsa Alam can also
changed, though, is the buying
take a trip with one of several
process – you’ll need to have your
different tour companies into
best haggling skills at the ready to
the unspoilt Eastern Desert of
ensure you get the best price. After
Egypt (your concierge will be
you’ve found the perfect souvenirs,
delighted to help set this up for
relax with a delicious hibiscus juice
you). The journeys are organised
or powerful Egyptian coffee and
in conjunction with the local
watch the world go by.
Bedouin tribes and can be geared up to focus on ancient historical
CLiMb AbOARd tHE SinbAd
sites or the modern day lives of
SubMARinE
the Bedouins. You can choose to
Get your concierge at the
hike, ride in on camels or donkeys
InterContinental Abu Soma
or enter in an airconditioned 4x4,
Resort to arrange a trip for you
bouncing your way through wadis
on this underwater marvel – you’ll
and up mountainsides. There are
be picked up from your hotel
even astronomical tours – there’s 9
TOP TIP: Why not add a city break in Cairo to the beginning or end of your resort stay and experience the very best of both worlds?
GEt A JALAbiyA MAdE in HuRGHAdA A traditional Egyptian jalabiya is the perfect souvenir or gift for a friend back home, and there’s no better place to pick one up than in Al Dahar, the traditional shopping district of Hurghada. Alongside jewellers, brassmakers, glassblowers, henna artists and grocers you’ll find talented tailors who can measure both men and women up for a beautiful jalabiya.
MoMentS to ReMeMbeR: #3 Making a debut dive A scuba diver tells us about taking his first ever plunge into the deep Red Sea... “I was a little nervous before setting off as I’d heard such wonderful things about the diving in the Red Sea and I was worried it would be an anticlimax. I needn’t have: from the moment I plunged under the water I was entranced. the visibility is better than in any other dive site I’ve visited and the colours are so powerful and bright. there were huge schools of fish down there, and the deeper I dived the more exotic and beautiful they became. I dived with an instructor from InterContinental the Palace Port Ghalib Resort, who was great at showing me the best spots. We saw stingrays. moray eels, barracuda, jackfish, dolphins, octopus and dozens of different reef fish. I dived in the morning and afternoon every day of my holiday, and I never got tired of the scenery...” Daniel Parry. 10
no better place to see the stars
Just pick the cloth from a large
than on a clear night in the desert.
range of options, settle on a price
The special sunset tours which
and they should be able to make
culminate in al fresco dinners are
it for you within the day. Not only
particularly brilliant.
are they that fast, but they’re extremely good value too.
SpEnd A MORninG At tHE EGyptiAn AntiquitiES MuSEuM
GO KitESuRfinG
This extraordinary repository of
The Red Sea Riviera has all the
history in the heart of Cairo has
elements needed for outstanding
in excess of 120,000 exhibits
kitesurfing – good weather,
(although thankfully for your shoe
reliable winds and warm seas. If
leather, not all are on show at the
you’ve never tried it before, you
same time). Wandering round this
can organise a lesson through
intelligently laid-out space, you’ll
your concierge – but if you’re a
get a crash course in the country’s
confident kitesurfer already, all
regal history, particularly that of
you need is to hire your equipment
the most famous of Pharaohs,
and pick a beach: Soma Bay and El
Tutankhamun, whose golden death
Gouna are both local favourites.
mask is on show, along with other possessions. You’ll be fascinated
pLAy 18 HOLES
by the Royal Mummy Room, where
If you feel that a holiday’s not
two dozen ancient mummies are
complete without a game of
on show. And although you can’t
golf, treat yourself to a round
take pictures, what you’ll see will
at The Taba Heights course.
be imprinted on your mind forever.
Pinned between the sea and the
It’s that good.
mountains, Taba Heights offers
grand views on all sides, and three
snaps of the citadel and the city
different countries are visible
below: on a clear day you may even
from each hole. It’s an imaginative
be able to see the mighty pyramids
course, which goes from four to
in the distance.
70metres above sea level, and incorporates no fewer than three lakes, alongside lush fairways and tough bunkers.
SpEnd tHE EvEninG At A bEACH pARty Hurghada has long been known for its fantastic beach parties,
viSit tHE CitAdEL
which go on from early evening
This is one of the most famous
until early morning. They’ve turned
sights in Cairo, a huge 12th century
the whole thing into an art form:
fortress which has played a big role
head down to one of the powder
throughout the last 800 years of
white beaches and you’ll find
Egyptian history. Today it’s home
chilled drinks, barbecues, DJs and
to mosques and museums. Take
hundreds of people socialising
a guided walking tour and learn
and dancing in sandals or bare
about this magnificent structure,
feet. There’s also plenty to watch,
whose previous inhabitants
including light shows, live bands,
included Saladin himself. You’ll
fire-breathers: and of course the
fill up a whole memory stick with
wonderful star-studded sky.
Opposite page: People riding camels into the sunset. This page, clockwise from left: Cairo Citadel and a felucca; Giza’s Pyramids; Kitesurfing.
11
InTeRCOnTInenTal Taba HeIgHTS ReSORT 00 20 69 358 0300
One of the Sinai Peninsula’s finest attractions, this resort mixes beautiful mountain views with perfect beaches and some of the best restaurants in the country. There’s plenty to see in the area, including first class jewellery souks (make sure to pick up some of the local speciality of turquoise bracelets) and picturesque, centuries-old villages with fascinating histories. This is the perfect place to be inspired and relaxed at the same time. By day Play a leisurely round on the PGA championship golf course, which offers lovely coastal views of the Red Sea at every turn. By night Enjoy a seafood extravaganza at the poolside El Mar restaurant, before heading over to relax on the al fresco terrace at Arches Bar, where you’ll find live music on offer each evening. if you only do one thing... Pay a visit to the hotel’s legendary onsite spa, where you can unwind with a wonderful massage. Room with a view The outsized, vibrantly-coloured suites are second to none, and feature luxurious, ultra-comfy sunbeds on their private terraces.
12
EGYPT
InTeRCOnTInenTal THe PalaCe PORT gHalIb ReSORT 00 20 65 336 0000
you can take part in brilliant organised sea excursions by boat. by day
‘take a kayak out on the crystal clear waters, and top up your tan while idly paddling along the waves’
Take a kayak out on the crystal Water is at the centre of the
clear waters, and top up your tan
and in – the huge palm-lined pool.
InterContinental The Palace Port
while idly paddling along the
It’s the very definition of idyllic.
Ghalib Resort, in the form of a
gentle waves. ROOM wITH a vIew
wonderful manmade lagoon and the Coral Coast of the Red
by nIgHT
You can’t go wrong with a water-
Sea. Everything is geared up
Rendezvous with your family for a
facing suite at The Palace. The
around relaxation and activities
laidback evening sipping delicious
decoration is filled with traditional
– the resort’s Six Senses Spa is
mocktails at the Look Out Bar,
touches – including lots of ornate
unmissable, and offers world
followed by a great dinner at the
woodwork, arches and rich swags
class treatments, and the diving
Olive Restaurant.
of beautiful cloth – and the four-
on offer at the resort’s own reef
poster beds are wonderfully comfy. If yOu Only dO One THIng
Best of all, though, is the view out
your fill of swimming alongside
Do not on any account miss out on
over the lagoon from your private
barracudas, lionfish and turtles,
a lovely lazy morning spent by –
terrace. Stunning.
is exceptional. When you’ve had
13
InTeRCOnTInenTal abu SOMa ReSORT 00 20 65 326 0700
you prefer to indulge in endless
for Italian at Il Portico, or Middle
activities or just to soak in the sun
Eastern at El Tannour?
and scenery, this resort is a classic holiday destination.
you first arrive here is magical – a
if you only do one thing Get your concierge to arrange
The view that greets you when By day
a horse-riding trip in the
powder white beach surrounded
You’ll be spoilt for choice – go
neighbouring countryside – it’s a
by palm trees and a still ocean
diving or windsurfing, play tennis
lovely experience that you won’t
beyond. Immaculate gardens filled
on the clay courts, or head out on a
forget in a hurry.
with exotic birds and beautiful
day trip to the nearby islands. Room with a view
statues complete the mix and you must visit its many restaurants and
By night
Awake in luxury each morning in
stunning spa: try the ‘Cleopatra’s
Meet before dinner at the pretty
your Panorama or Presidential
Charm’ package, which mixes a
Atrium bar, where koi fish dart
suite, step out onto the balcony
steam with a milk body mask and a
around in giant tanks, and puzzle
and look out over the ocean, dotted
long-drawn-out massage. Whether
over your options – do you go
with distant desert islands.
14
EGYPT
CROwne Plaza SaHaRa SandS PORT gHalIb ReSORT 00 20 65 336 0000
by day
equipment can be laid on too so
Take a stroll down to Port Ghalib
you can enjoy the adventure to
International Marina and stop
the full.
by one of the myriad cafes and restaurants for a lazy lunch. Then
ROOM wITH a vIew
If you’re looking for a family-
head over to the city of Marsa Alam
The rooms here take their
friendly resort, look no further.
and take a wander in the pretty
inspiration from traditional Bedouin
The Crowne Plaza has everything
little souk where you can haggle
tents – they’re richly decorated
to make sure your kids – and
over the price of your souvenirs.
and finished with beautiful old coffee pots and lanterns. The suite
you – have the most wonderful time. There’s a dedicated ‘Activity
by nIgHT
beds, meanwhile, are deep and
Courtyard’ where they can let off
You’ll love the Mediterranean
supremely soft – and made-up with
steam playing video games, pool,
flavours at Cardamom, the North
only the finest Egyptian cotton,
air hockey and basketball; a special
African dishes at Souk El Hana and
naturally...
kids’ diving course where they can
the ice cold freshly-squeezed juices
learn how to dive in shallow waters
at the comfy Pool Bar.
with a qualified PADI instructor; a Kids’ Club which runs endless
If yOu Only dO One THIng
activities – oh, and a tremendously
Splash out and take to sea in
fun miniature golf course.
a yacht for a half or full day at
Meanwhile all you have to do is lay
the Port Ghalib International
back and relax by the pool.
Marina: catering and watersports
‘If you’re looking for a family-friendly resort, look no further. the Crowne Plaza has everything to make sure your kids – and you – have the most wonderful time’ 15
EGYPT
CROwne Plaza SaHaRa OaSIS PORT gHalIb ReSORT 00 20 65 336 0000
the cosiest spots in the place is
bands and DJs and chill out in the
Shamlula’s, a dainty lunchtime
excellent Grand Café.
restaurant where you can indulge in great food while overlooking the pool and gardens.
a trip out to the House Reef in
The traditional theming of the decor at this resort is a joy to
If yOu Only dO One THIng Get the concierge to organise you
by day
the Sha’ab Samadai national park
behold: the arches, low lighting
Throw yourself into aquatic
where, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to
and sculptures create a restful,
activities including fishing,
witness acrobatic tricks from the
authentic vibe. The resort offers
submarine trips, kayaking,
pod of dolphins which lives there.
easy access to all the delights
wakeboarding, kneeboarding
of Port Ghalib as well as some
and parasailing.
pleasures all of its own, including the magnificent Six Senses Spa,
ROOM wITH a vIew It’s a tough choice between a sea,
by nIgHT
lagoon or garden view. Whichever
which is equipped with its very
Stroll over to the VIP Club on the
you pick, each room is designed to
own Hammam bath. One of
Marina where you can enjoy live
make you feel instantly relaxed.
16
MAURITIUS
InTeRCOnTInenTal MauRITIuS ReSORT balaClava fORT
By day
if you only do one thing
Choose from all manner of aquatic
Spend an unforgettable afternoon
activities – glass-bottom boating
at the resort’s Angsana Spa, where
is great. If you want to get out and
the Thai therapists will knead out
about, the resort rents out bicycles
all your tension, leaving you feeling
This wonderful resort is blessed
and scooters and can also lay on
years younger.
with a fantastic location on a
fantastic catamaran tours.
00 230 2611200
Room with a view
sheltered bay, with a first-rate stretch of beach. If you’re on a
By night
Happily, every single one of the
family trip, you’ll love the dedicated
If you book in advance, you
rooms here has an ocean view. But
kids’ pool, the special family rooms
can arrange to have a private
the smart choice is the stunning
– they’re a great size – and the kids’
three-course dinner on the beach,
duplex Presidential Suite, which
club for children aged between
an awe-inspiring experience.
comes with its own al fresco
four and twelve, where they can
Meanwhile, if you fancy seeing a bit
hot tub in which you can soak
socialise, play tennis and go on
of the island’s nightlife, the resort is
while looking out to the beautiful
outings each day.
just a short drive from Grand Baie.
turquoise sea beyond.
17
InTeRCOnTInenTal aqaba ReSORT 00 962 3 209 2222
toys, watching kids’ movies, painting and having running and tug of war competitions on the
‘It’s a warm and welcoming resort, where everything is geared up for your sheer enjoyment’
Aqaba is famed for its
beach. Meanwhile, you can be
watersports and beaches, and the
out waterskiing, wakeboarding,
InterContinental Aqaba Resort
buggying on a mountain trail and
if you only do one thing
allows you to make the most of
parasailing, before collecting the
Take time out from all that relaxing
both. It’s a warm and welcoming
little ones and taking them out
(if you can) and ask your concierge
resort, where everything is geared
banana boating, speed boating
to organise a day trip out to the
up for your sheer enjoyment –
and snorkelling.
legendary rose red city of Petra.
including the spa, a gorgeouslydecorated spot which employs
By night
Room with a view
ingredients from the Dead Sea in
Enjoy dinner under the stars at the
The hyper-spacious Royal Suite is
its massages and facials.
Burj Al Hamam restaurant then
the in-the-know choice and comes
relax in the lounge with chilled
with rich wooden furniture, super
drinks and a game of pool, while
luxurious bedding and a bird’s
Drop your children off at the
listening to the live DJ, who plays a
eye view over the 300 metres
Kids Club, where they’ll have
great nightly mix of fusion, lounge,
of private beach that stretch out
a fantastic time playing with
Arabic and hip hop music.
below it. Marvellous.
By day
18
JORDAN
HOlIday Inn ReSORT dead Sea 00 962 5 349 1550
interconnected pools, which are serviced by a great little cafe. While you’re there, consider taking a spa treatment or yoga class, too.
The resort itself has been imaginatively and attractively
by nIgHT
designed to blend in with its
You can hit Al Deera for some
surroundings while referencing
excellent live cooking mixed with
traditional architecture. It cuts
gourmet buffet food or head over
a beautiful dash against the
to Below 393 – both are matched
skyline, particularly at sunset. The
with jaw-dropping views.
other real star here is the natural surroundings – the backdrop of
If yOu Only dO One THIng
mountains and the glinting, gentle
Take a tailormade trip with a
waters of the Dead Sea, located at
guide out to the awe-inspiring
the lowest point on earth.
landscapes of Wadi Rum.
by day
ROOM wITH a vIew
Spend your days bobbing in the
The suites here boast sleek modern
Dead Sea – it’s so buoyant that
bathrooms and rich, warm-hued
you can even sit on it reading
bedrooms as well as delightful
a newspaper – and splashing
vistas which look out over the
about in one of the three lovely
rippling waters beyond. 19
CROwne Plaza ReSORT PeTRa 00 962 3 215 6266
knowledgeable hotel guide, then
if yOu OnLy dO OnE tHinG
relax with a swim in the pool and a
Make sure your camera is charged
set or two on the tennis court.
– you’ll kick yourself if you run out of batteries half way around
When it comes to getting to
by niGHt
picture-perfect Petra.
grips with Petra, there is no more
You can enjoy dinner in the Olive
convenient place to stay than
Tree buffet restaurant where
this resort. It sits just next to the
myriad cuisines are offered or, for
The suites here all have unbeatable
entrance to the Siq, the narrow
something really special, have a
mountain views, and if you’re with
passageway through sheer rock
banquet arranged in the desert
a big group you can link up other
face which leads you out to the city
with a group of family or friends,
bedrooms and suites to create a
itself. With the Petra mountains
out under the night sky. There’s
big, shareable family area.
directly behind you, this resort is
also a fantastic ‘Cave Bar’ just
fabulously atmospheric.
round the corner from the hotel, where you can sit and enjoy a
by dAy Visit the charms of Petra with a 20
thirst-quenching drink in a lounge carved out of the mountainside.
ROOM WitH A viEW
‘When it comes to getting to grips with Petra, there is no more convenient place to stay than the Crowne Plaza’
JORDAN
CROwne Plaza JORdan dead Sea ReSORT & SPa OpEn OCtObER 2011
This soon-to-open resort has the best possible location in Jordan. It’s on a lovely stretch of Dead Sea beachfront, ringed with mountains, and offers easy access to the country’s best and biggest attractions, including Petra, Amman, Jerash and the hot springs at Hammamat Ma’in. This means you can enjoy the perfect holiday combination of plenty of relaxation, sunshine, and lots of eye-opening cultural pursuits too. By day Enjoy a wonderful breakfast by the beach then take a ten kilometre trip through attractive countryside to Wadi Al Mujib, where you can go walking and end up at the beautiful, impressive waterfalls. By night There will be plenty of grand dinner options at this resort – whether you’re in the mood for Lebanese mezze and grills, Mexican fajitas and burritos or delicious fresh seafood. if you only do one thing Treat yourself to a day of chilling out at the Thalgo Spa. where you’ll find a heated beach pool, a Dead Sea saltwater pool and no fewer than 30 treatments rooms. Room with a view Whichever suite you plump for – Executive, Royal or even Presidential – you’ll love the high levels of service and fantastic vistas your room affords you. 21
LEBANON
InTeRCOnTInenTal MzaaR lebanOn MOunTaIn ReSORT & SPa 00 961 9 340 100
outstanding fondue (watch out for the fontina cheese version). Then there’s classic French brasserie Les Airelles, Tuscan-style eatery La Tavola (try its delicious wood-fired pizzas) and the Al Hor tent, where
Up in the snowy heights of Mount
local specialities made with local
Lebanon, this welcoming resort
ingredients are lovingly prepared,
is home to 360 degree vistas, a
and where the mezze continues to
national favourite of a spa (Les
reign supreme.
Thermes du Mzaar) and air so fresh you’ll feel like your lungs are getting a spring clean.
if you only do one thing Pay a flying visit to Baalbek, an immaculately-preserved Roman
By day
site with ancient temples built two
Visit the Jeita Grotto, go rafting,
millenia ago. It’s only an hour’s
take a snowmobile out for a ride,
drive away from the resort, and is
climb, hike, bike and – of course –
one of the major cultural highlights
enjoy the brilliant skiing.
of the country.
By night
Room with a view
This resort is rightfully proud of its
Designed with the fresh grace of
dinners. When you’ve worked up
an Alpine chalet, the suites at this
an appetite on the slopes, you’ll
resort boast fantastic views over
love the terrace at Le Refuge,
the mountains. A beautiful sight to
where you can keep warm with
wake up to.
22
OMAN
CROwne Plaza ReSORT SalalaH
by nIgHT Join the locals who visit the resort
00968 23 235333
in the evening to enjoy beachside
Oman has many delights to offer,
Restaurant, classic Arabic dishes
but none quite as intriguing as
at Darbat or a relaxed snack at the
Salalah, a green region which is
Al-Khareef pub.
buffets at the Dolphin Beach
home to the special Crowne Plaza Resort. This place is known for its
If yOu Only dO One THIng
high quality accommodation, its
Pick up some of the local
stretch of Indian Ocean coastline
frankincense, which grows on trees
and private beach and a super-fun
around the resort and is a great
par three golf course – the only
gift to take back home – as are the
green course in the country. There
traditional Omani crafts on sale at
are also four huge pools and over
the nearby Luban Souk.
40 acres of pristine, landscaped garden to relax in.
ROOM wITH a vIew In addition to offering fine vistas,
by day
the smart, well-appointed junior
Mix and mingle with other families
suites here have plenty of space,
over a game of beach volleyball, go
Arabian-style decor and two
scuba diving with the international
bedrooms, as well as a dining room
dive centre, play a game of tennis
and a large balcony where you can
or squash or head out on the placid
entertain family and friends as you
waters in a pedalo or kayak.
soak up the sights. 23
KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA
HOlIday Inn ReSORT Half MOOn bay
reward your exertions with an
if you only do one thing
ice cream from the Blue Lagoon
Go sandbiking in the dunes
Cafe. Meanwhile, if you’re visiting
near the resort, an invigorating,
with your family, your kids can
adrenaline-fuelled way to spend a
Tranquility and high levels of
enjoy clown shows, competitions,
sunny morning.
service are the key themes at the
swings, slides and use of their
Holiday Inn Resort Half Moon Bay.
own dedicated swimming pools.
The bay itself is beautiful, curving
And, for the shopaholics among
Choose a lovely individual villa,
round symmetrically and forming
your group, the Al Rashid Mall is a
which comes with its own large
a picture perfect private beach:
must-visit – just a short trip away,
kitchen and dining area, so you can
whether you’re swimming in the
it’s the place to shop and stock up
prepare food at home and enjoy it
Gulf or in one of the three pools,
on designer brands.
with friends and family in a relaxed
00 966 3 896 3333
you’re guaranteed good weather and a glorious view.
setting. You’ll also have a fantastic By night The resort offers regular outdoor
By day
barbecues with deliciously fresh
Enjoy the wide spread of
grilled food, as well as a great
watersports – everything from jet
nightly buffet at the Blue Beach
skis to windsurfing are on offer –
Restaurant. And as kids eat free
play a game of tennis and join in
you won’t mind when they’re fussy
with some basketball, then
with their food.
24
Room with a view
view over the hotel’s terrace.
‘If you’re visiting with your family, your kids can enjoy clown shows, competitions, swings, slides and use of their own dedicated pools’