World Traveller WeLove Maldives Sep'14

THE REGION’S BIGGEST LU XURY TR AV EL M AGAZINE

September 2014

Complimentary Copy

Issue Seventy Seven

EID ESCAPES INSPIRING IDEAS FROM THE FINEST FAMILY HOTELS TO VIEWING FINE ART IN MADRID AND CHILLING OUT IN CAPE TOWN

Produced in International Media Production Zone

MALTA

DIVE IN AND EXPLORE

LONDON

AIRPORT DINING DONE RIGHT

CHILE

WHY SANTIAGO IS HOT RIGHT NOW ON CHILE

InterContinental速 Danang Sun Peninsula Resort

THE SEARCH FOR A MORE REWARDING LIFE WILL LEAD YOU BACK SOONER.

2X

POINTS

As a member of IHGŽ Rewards Club you will now earn 10 points for every US$1 charged to your room at InterContinentalŽ Hotels & Resorts. Which means you could reach Reward Nights at your favourite hotel up to three times faster. To celebrate we’re also offering double points on dining, drinks and in-room services enjoyed during your stays between 1 July and 31 October 2014.

And that’s not all. Exclusive to IHG Rewards Club members, you will now enjoy complimentary Internet access. Book directly on our sites now and get our lowest price – or you’ll get a night, on us.

Do you live an InterContinental life?

Register for your double IHGÂŽ Rewards Club points now at intercontinental.com/2X Not a member? Sign up at ihgrewardsclub.com

# !

! " $

$

$

Š 2014 IHG. All Rights Reserved. Most hotels are independently owned and operated.

3 Cover: Elounda Bay Palace, Greece.

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Title xx

Check In The Essentials Ruth Asher’s stunning photograph of gannets nesting on a rocky outcrop is just one of a series of beautiful wildlife shots that form the British Wildlife Photograph Awards: Collection 5. Taken in Unst, part of the Shetland Isles in Scotland, the photograph depicts the birds calmly perched in the midst of crashing and violent waves, unperturbed by their rough environment. Asher captioned her photogra – taken with a slow

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shutter speed and specialised ÃÌ ««iÀ w ÌiÀ q ºƂ vi >Ì -i> - Nesting Gannets” and the snap beat shots of roaming stags and red grouse in the Peak District to be awarded with the prestigious Habitat award.

This image is taken from the coffee table book: British Wildlife Photography Awards: Collection 5 (AA Publishing), out now.

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THE LUXURY OF A HOTEL WITH THE COMFORTS OF HOME Enjoy panoramic views over the sparkling coastline and stunning cityscape at Fraser Suites Dubai.

With award-winning service and extensive gold-standard facilities including swimming pools, steam & sauna, Kid’s Club, tennis & squash courts, conference rooms that can cater up to 200 delegates; relaxed dining in Aqua Café and the exclusive Awazen Spa Fraser Suites Dubai has it all.

FRASER SUITES DUBAI - Sheikh Zayed Road, Media City, Dubai, UAE Reservations: +971 4 440 1400 Email: reservations.dubai@frasershospitality.com

In

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TIME TO GO

TO MEXICO

Casa Cuixmala is South America’s premier luxury boutique hotel ÌiÀ >Ì > L > Àià >Ûi > «ÀiÌÌÞ Ì Õ} vi] Üi½Ài ÃÕÀi Þ Õ½` >}Àii° Ƃ ` Ü i Ì }à } Ì > L Ì Ì ÕV v À - À > ià `Ã Ì ] i ÀiÌÀi>Ìi` Ì Ã Óx]äää >VÀi >ÌÕÀi ÀiÌÀi>Ì iÝ V ½Ã *>V wV V >ÃÌ° 7 i Ì i L > Ài Ü>à > Ûi] Ì i Àià ÀÌ i ÌiÀÌ> i` *Àià `i ÌÃ] *À i ÃÌiÀà > ` Vi iLÀ Ì iÃ] V Õ` } , > ` ,i>}> ° Ü } `Ã Ì ½Ã `i>Ì £ Ç] Ì i Û > Ü>à iÀ Ìi` Ì Ã Þi>À LÞ Ã `>Õ} ÌiÀ Ƃ Ý >ÀV>VV ] Ü Ì Ì i `iV Ã Ì ÌÀ> Ãv À Ì i ë>Vi Ì > Õ ÌÀ> ÕÝÕÀÞ L ÕÌ µÕi Ìi Ü Ì > iÃà ÃÌÕ } V i Ìi i v 6 * v> à V Õ` } >ÌiÃ] >` > > ` V >}}iÀ° -ÌÀ } Þ `ià } i` LÞ , LiÀÌ

ÕÌÕÀ iÀ] Ì i ÃÌÞ i à > VÕ ÌÕÀ> à >à v yÕi Við ÕÀ } À}i Õà ÃÕ Ìià > i Õ« Ì i > LÕ ` }] Ü i 66 *- Ì> i Ì i ÃiÛi «À Û>Ìi LÕ }> Ü ÃÕ Ìið / i ÃÌ>À >ÌÌÀ>VÌ Ã Ì i Õ Ý > > -Õ Ìi] Ü Ì > Þ«iÀ `i ÕÝi L>Ì À ] «> À> V Û iÜà v Ì i Vi> > ` ÕÌ` À Û } ë>Vi V « iÌi Ü Ì «À Û>Ìi « Õ }i « ° / i Ìi à Ì> } ÀiÃiÀÛ>Ì Ã Ü] > ` à >ÀÌ L iÀà >Ài Ì> } ÕÌ Ì i > > -Õ Ìi Ì Ü>à - À > iý «À Û>Ìi ÕÃi > ` Ã] >vÌiÀ Ì i Õ Ý > > -Õ Ìi] Ì i ÃÌ >Ü `À «« } Þ «Õ i Ì] Ü Ì ÃÌÕ } Û iÜà v Ì i Vi> > ` Ì i Ãii } Þ i ` iÃÃ] Ìii } ÌÀ « V> Õ } i° 1 ÃÕÀ«À à } Þ] >ÀV>VV Ûià i>ÀLÞ° v Þ Õ Ü i` Ì] Ü Õ ` Þ Õ Ü> Ì Ì i>Ûi¶

SPORTING GOODS "ÕÀ À Õ ` Õ« v Ì i L }}iÃÌ > ` LiÃÌ Ã«iVÌ>V ià ë ÀÌ Ì> } « >Vi Ì Ã Ì

CRICKET

SAILING

FOOTBALL

GOLF

T20 International, 7 Sept

Santander World Championships, 8-21 Sept

Champions League Group Stages, 16-17 Sept

The Ryder Cup, 23-28 Sept

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/ i Ü À `½Ã ÃÌ } «À w i V ÕL V «iÌ Ì V à vv «À «iÀ Þ ` -i«Ìi LiÀ] >Ã Ì i }À Õ« ÃÌ>}ià Li} ° / Ã Ã Ü iÀi VÕÀÀi Ì `iÀà ,i> >`À ` Ü Li} Ì i `ivi Vi v Ì i À VÀ Ü °

} > ` « >Þ ÃÌ Ì wiÀVi À Û> à ` > Ì i w > >ÌV v ` >½Ã Ì ÕÀ] >Ì `}L>ÃÌ ° / à V >à à } Ûi > iÝÌÀ> i`}i `Õi Ì Ì i v>VÌ Ì >Ì Ì V ià ÕÃÌ wÛi `>Þà >vÌiÀ Ì i ÌÜ Ã `ià iiÌ Ì i " i

>Þ ÌiÀ >Ì > ÃiÀ ið Ý«iVÌ L } ÌÌiÀà }> Ài°

World Traveller

i i>} iÃ] -V Ì > ` ÃÌÃ Ì i L > Õ> L>ÌÌ i LiÌÜii /i> 1-Ƃ > ` Ì i À ÕÀ «i> V Õ ÌiÀ«>ÀÌÃ Ü >Ì Ã Ü Ì ÕÌ ` ÕLÌ } v½Ã ÃÌ iÝV Ì } Ì ÕÀ > i Ì° * >ÞiÀà « >Þ >à > v ÕÀà i] «> À] > ` w > Þ > i ÛiÀ Ì Àii Ì À } `>Þð

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In

CHECK

CASE IN POINT Globe-Trotter’s gorgeous luggage collection is all we want to take on holiday

With over 125 years of experience behind them, Globe-Trotter’s beautiful and tough cases are wÀ 7/ v>Û ÕÀ Ìið / i > `VÀ>vÌi` i Ìi >ÀÞ V iVÌ ] wÀÃÌ ÌÀ `ÕVi` £ Ç] à ÃÌ> Ì Þ ÀiV } Ã>L i > ` >Là ÕÌi Þ Li>ÕÌ vÕ °

NEW IN NEW YORK

Baccarat Hotel & Residences opens its doors and blows everyone else away World Traveller was treated to a sneak preview of the hotly anticipated Baccarat Hotel & Residences New York tower, conceptualised by the brilliant interior designer Stephen - ð / i Àià `i Ì > à `i v the tower began admitting its occupants last month, and the remaining 114 luxury hotel rooms are taking visitors from Ü ° À Ì i `À> >Ì V foyer, with its alluring dark bronze wallpaper, to the glamorous living areas `iV À>Ìi` V >Ãà V Ài V design with Baccarat crystalwork throughout, this is a seriously special place to cap an autumn trip to the Big Ƃ«« i° ̽à Vi ÌÀ> Þ V>Ìi`] too - 20 West 53rd Street is right opposite the Museum of Modern Art, and two streets >Ü>Þ vÀ i ÌÀ> *>À °

WHERE THE ART IS Our three favourite museums dedicated to artists / i ÕÃji * V>ÃÃ *>À Ã Ã due to reopen this October, >vÌiÀ > VÀi` L i wÛi Þi>ÀÃ v ÀivÕÀL Ã i Ì° ,i>VµÕ> Ì yourself with the master LÕÌ > i ÃÕÀi Ì L i>À Þ°

* ÌÌÃLÕÀ} ½Ã Vi iLÀ>Ìi` Andy Warhol Museum has announced a second upcoming location - New 9 À ° v Þ Õ V> ½Ì Ü> Ì Õ Ì Óä£Ç v À Ì Ì «i ] Ì i original is a fantastic tribute Ì Ì i « « >ÀÌ V °

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Middle Eastern travellers have a reason to celebrate - while on holiday in the US, UK or Europe, their rental car options have just been seriously ramped up with the launch of the Hertz Dream

iVÌ ° 7 Ì ÕÝÕÀÞ vehicles like the Maserati Ghibli, Aston Martin Vantage À > ` * ÀÃV i >Þ >

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on offer, the service also gives > 6 * ÃiÀÛ Vi Ì > i Ì }à as comfortable as possible every step of the way, even as far as having the cars delivered to the customer’s V>Ì ° 7 Ì iÜ `i à being added to the collection all the time, the worry of what to drive when abroad has just Lii Ì Ì> Þ Ì> i >Ü>Þ°

Amsterdam’s Rembrandt House Museum has donated pieces to pop-up restaurant Rembrandt Tower to celebrate the anniversary of Ì i >ÀÌ Ã̽à `i>Ì ° À -i«Ì 22, customers can dine in Ì i «ÀiÃi Vi v }Ài>Ì iÃð

In

CHECK

READY FOR ACTION

Fujif ilm unleashes a camera that can handle any holiday

MY CITY

Neiman Marcus’ fashion director Ken Downing tells us his dream Dallas day I would start my day at Odd Fellows in the Bishop Arts District in Oak Cliff with breakfast and a cup of Joe. Oak Cliff is the hottest Dallas neighborhood with its mix of Tudor, Spanish, and mid-century

homes. With 24 hours to explore the V ÌÞ] Ü Õ ` Ì> i >`Û> Ì>}i v > >ýà great art scene. First stop at the Dallas Museum of Art, and then check out the architecture of the Wyly Theatre designed by Rem Koolhous. For peace and quiet head to the Arboretum at White Rock Lake, the gardens are ë i ` `] Ì i > i ÌÀ> µÕ Æ ÛiÀÞ Ài >Ý }° / w à ½` V } >ÃÃià >Ì LÕÃÌ } Tei Tei° Ì½Ã Ì Ã v vÕ > ` >à }Ài>Ì ÃÕà t

̽à > >}i ` «À L i \ Ü Ü > ÞL `Þ Ü Þ Õ½Ûi Û Ã Ìi` Ì i ÃÌ remote spots in the world if there are « Ì Ã Ì «À Ûi ̶ ÃÌ } i ` V> iÀ>à >Ài Ì vÀ>} i Ì ÃÕÀÛ Ûi Û > jungles or typhoons in Thailand - until Ü° / i Õ w i* Ý -£ à Ü>ÌiÀ > ` sand resistant and is specially calibrated to capture 16.4 megapixel landscapes, Ü ` vi à Ìà À iÛi iÝÌÀi i V Ãi իð Get ready to take your holiday snaps to Ì i iÝÌ iÛi v µÕ> ÌÞ°

MONTENEGRO

Enjoy the Adriatic Sea at these new resorts

DUBAI DINING

Another superstar chef brings his culinary class to the Middle East

REGENT PORTO MONTENEGRO

AMAN SVETI STEFAN

Marina-view splendour

Ultra-luxe escape

Located smack in the heart of the luxurious super-yacht marina on the Ƃ`À >Ì V V >ÃÌ] Ì Ã wÛi ÃÌ ÀiÞ Ã«iV > >à ÌÜ Ü }à y> } > Vi ÌÀ> >ÌÀ Õ ] all inspired by Venetian Renaissance `ià } ð / i Ì> > yÕi Vi V Ì Õià indoors, with plenty of Venetian hints.

The absolute iconic image of Montenegro is what you get here - a peaceful green island, with terracotta roofed buildings dotted on it. Inside, the luxury on offer will amaze any ÌÀ>Ûi iÀ Ì i ë>½Ã ÃÜ } « ] >L Ûi] Li } > «>ÀÌ VÕ >À } } Ì°

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Michelin-starred chef and smash-hit author Greg Malouf has announced à wÀÃÌ ÀiÃÌ>ÕÀ> Ì Ü Ã Li V } to the UAE. Clé Dubai promises to unlock the experience of contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine. Greg Malouf is arguably the most exciting Middle >ÃÌiÀ >ÃÌiÀ] à Üi½Ài V } ÕÀ «Ã for this autumn opening.

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At Mayo Clinic, a team of experts works together for you. No wonder Mayo Clinic’s collective knowledge and innovative treatments have been a shining light to millions around the world. Visit mayoclinic.org or mayoclinic.org/arabic to learn more.

ROCHE STE R, M I N NE SOTA, U SA

| P HOE NI X /SCOTTSDALE , ARI ZONA, U SA |

JACK SONVI LLE , FLORIDA, U SA

Gorgeous GRAZING Chef Sophie Michell tells WT about her new venture, The Gorgeous Kitchen, at London’s Heathrow Airport Terminal 2

R5 )15 # 5Äť 5 ),! )/-5 #. " (5 )' 5 )/.>5 The Gorgeous Kitchen is a collaboration between myself and three other British chefs – Gee Charman, Jo Pratt and Caroline Mi Li Artiss – and we wanted to do gorgeous food in a gorgeous environment. I travel a lot >˜` w˜` ÂˆĂŒ Ă›iÀÞ `ˆvwVĂ•Â?ĂŒ ĂŒÂœ w˜` Ăƒ>ĂŒÂˆĂƒvĂžÂˆÂ˜} ŸÀi>Â?½ vœœ`] ĂƒÂœ Ăœi Ăœ>Â˜ĂŒi` ĂŒÂœ ÂŤĂ•ĂŒ ĂŒÂœ}iĂŒÂ…iĂ€ > “iÂ˜Ă• Ăœi½` Â?ˆŽi ĂŒÂœ i>ĂŒ ĂœÂ…i˜ we travel.

R5 )151)/& 53)/5 - ,# 5." 5 /#-#( >5 ĂŒÂ˝Ăƒ ÂŤĂ€ÂœÂŤiĂ€ vœœ`] “>`i vĂ€ÂœÂ“ ĂƒVĂ€>ĂŒVÂ…] >˜` Ăœi ÂŽÂ˜ÂœĂœ the provenance of the ingredients. My favourite dish ĂŒÂ…>ĂŒ ½Ûi `œ˜i œ˜ ĂŒÂ…i “iÂ˜Ă• ÂˆĂƒ ĂŒÂ…i Liiv V>À>VVˆœ ĂœÂˆĂŒÂ… Â?ˆ}Â…ĂŒÂ?Ăž ÂŤÂˆVÂŽÂ?i` ViÂŤ Â“Ă•ĂƒÂ…Ă€ÂœÂœÂ“Ăƒ ˆ˜ > ĂŒĂ€Ă•vyi `Ă€iĂƒĂƒÂˆÂ˜} >˜` Parmesan.

R5 )15 ) -5,/((#(!5 (5 #,*),.5, -. /, (.5 #Äż ,5.)5 5 (),' &5)( >5 ½“ ÂœLĂƒiĂƒĂƒi` LĂž ĂŒÂ…i ¾Õ>Â?ÂˆĂŒĂž Âœv ÂŤĂ€Âœ`Ă•Vi >˜` ½“ Ă›iÀÞ spoilt at Pont St. [at Belgraves Hotel in London, where Sophie is executive chef], as I have the best suppliers. I Ăœ>Ăƒ ĂœÂœĂ€Ă€Âˆi` ĂŒÂ…>ĂŒ ĂœÂœĂ•Â?`Â˜Â˝ĂŒ Â…>Ă›i ĂŒÂ…i V>ÂŤ>LˆÂ?ÂˆĂŒĂž ĂŒÂœ Â…>Ă›i ĂŒÂ…i QĂƒ>“iR …ˆ}Â… ¾Õ>Â?ÂˆĂŒĂž >˜` ĂƒĂŒ>˜`>Ă€`Ăƒ >ĂŒ /Â…i ÂœĂ€}iÂœĂ•Ăƒ ÂˆĂŒVÂ…i˜] LĂ•ĂŒ Ăœi Â…>Ă›i >˜` ÂˆĂŒÂ˝Ăƒ Lii˜ ĂŒÂ…i Â“ÂœĂƒĂŒ ÂˆÂ“ÂŤÂœĂ€ĂŒ>Â˜ĂŒ v>VĂŒÂœĂ€] ĂŒÂ…ÂˆÂ˜ÂŽÂ°

R5 )53)/5 &&5 ,#(!53)/,5)1(5, #* -5.)5." 5. & 5),5 , . 5." '5.)! ." ,>5 We all have our own recipes. Basically, we sit down with ÂœĂ•Ă€ v>Ă›ÂœĂ•Ă€ÂˆĂŒi `ÂˆĂƒÂ…iĂƒ] ĂŒÂ…i˜ `ÂˆĂƒVĂ•ĂƒĂƒ ĂŒÂ…i“ >˜` Â?œœŽ >ĂŒ bringing balance to the menu. If two of us have similar Ă€iVÂˆÂŤiĂƒ] vÂœĂ€ iĂ?>“Â?i] Ăœi Â?œœŽ >ĂŒ Â…ÂœĂœ Ăœi V>˜ VÂ…>˜}i ĂŒÂ…i“° 7i½Ûi ĂƒÂŤiÂ˜ĂŒ > Â?ÂœĂŒ Âœv ĂŒÂˆÂ“i œ˜ ĂŒÂ…i “iÂ˜Ă• >˜` Â…ÂœÂŤivĂ•Â?Â?Ăž ÂˆĂŒ Ă€iyiVĂŒĂƒ ÂľĂ•ÂˆĂŒi ĂœiÂ?Â?°

R5 )/5-. ,. 5 ))%#(!5*,) --#)( &&35 .5gk85 " , 5 ) -53)/,5&)0 5) 5 ))%#(!5-. '5 ,)'>5 My mother was always very into food, and ingredients ĂœiĂ€i >Â?Ăœ>ĂžĂƒ Ă€i>Â?Â?Ăž ÂˆÂ“ÂŤÂœĂ€ĂŒ>Â˜ĂŒ ĂŒÂœ Â…iĂ€] ĂƒÂœ ĂŒÂ…>ĂŒÂ˝Ăƒ ÂˆÂ˜ĂƒÂŤÂˆĂ€i` “Þ VœœŽˆ˜} vĂ€ÂœÂ“ ĂŒÂ…i Li}ˆ˜˜ˆ˜}° Ć‚Â˜` Ăœ>Ăƒ > LÂˆĂŒ Âœv > LÂœÂœÂŽĂœÂœĂ€Â“ ĂƒÂœ Ă•Ăƒi` ĂŒÂœ Ă€i>` VœœŽLÂœÂœÂŽĂƒ >Â?Â? ĂŒÂ…i ĂŒÂˆÂ“i°

œœŽˆ˜} ÂˆĂƒ Ă›iÀÞ Ăƒ>ĂŒÂˆĂƒvĂžÂˆÂ˜} q ĂžÂœĂ• }iĂŒ > ÂŤĂ€Âœ`Ă•VĂŒ >ĂŒ ĂŒÂ…i i˜` >˜` ÂˆĂŒ “>ÂŽiĂƒ ÂŤiÂœÂŤÂ?i Â…>Þ° 15

R5 ")5 , 5." 5 " -53)/5 '#, 5')-.>5 Â?ÂœĂ›i ˆVÂ…iÂ? ,ÂœĂ•Ă? À° q Â…iÂ˝Ăƒ Â?Ă•ĂƒĂŒ >˜ iÂŤÂˆV VÂ…iv >˜` ĂžÂœĂ• can see when he touches food how much he cares for it. Ć‚Â˜` VÂ…ivĂƒ Â?ˆŽi Ć‚Â˜}iÂ?> >Ă€ĂŒÂ˜iĂŒĂŒ] Â?>Ă€i -Â“ĂžĂŒÂ… >˜` iÂ?i˜i

>Ă€Ă€ÂœĂ˘i >Ă€i ÂˆÂ˜ĂƒÂŤÂˆĂ€ÂˆÂ˜} LiV>Ă•Ăƒi ĂŒÂ…iÞ½Ûi ĂœÂœĂ€ÂŽi` ĂƒÂœ Â…>Ă€` >˜` `œ˜i ĂƒÂœ ĂœiÂ?Â? ˆ˜ >˜ ˆ˜`Ă•ĂƒĂŒĂ€Ăž ĂŒÂ…>ĂŒ ÂˆĂƒ ĂƒĂŒÂˆÂ?Â? ÂľĂ•ÂˆĂŒi “>Â?i‡ dominated.

The Gorgeous Kitchen is located in Terminal 2 at Heathrow Airport, heathrowairport.com.

World Traveller

September // 2014

In

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TRAVEL DOWNLOAD All the media you need, whatever your journey

Film

JIMI: ALL IS BY MY SIDE This long-awaited biopic stars Andre 3000 of Outkast à ÃÌ ÃiÀ Õà w À i yet – playing none other than musical icon Jimi Hendrix in a chronicle of the musician’s early years in NYC and London.

THE LONGEST WEEK Likeable everyman Jason Bateman plays an immature man-child, still living at home with his parents in a chic Manhattan hotel. His life is turned upside down when i w `Ã Ãi v iÛ VÌi`] VÕÌ off and madly in love with his best friend’s girl.

Music

Books

BANKS GODDESS American singer Banks has kept the world waiting v À iÀ `iLÕÌ > LÕ q wÀÃÌ single Brain was released in January – but Goddess has proven worth the delay, the dark pop grooves perfectly soundtracking the end of summer.

tenth solo album. New to the party is his latest band, The Sensational Space Shifters.

ROBERT PLANT Lullaby and… The Ceaseless Roar The erstwhile Led Zeppelin frontman takes time out from teasing a Zep reunion with his

ALT-J This Is All Yours The British nerd-rockers’ sophomore release features more thoughtful introspection and crunching tunes.

PERSONAL Lee Child The ultimate holiday read.

Sightseeing ex-Military Policeman Jack Reacher is pulled back into duty when the President of France is attacked in Paris.

HYENA Jude Angelini Angelini is one of the top hiphop radio hosts in the US, and his autobiographical stories are sometimes hilarious, sometimes moving and always searingly honest.

Apps

JETSMARTER

SLEEPSOUNDS HQ

WIKITUDE

HOPSTOP

The Uber of the private jet set, JetSmarter lets you charter private planes wherever you are in the world.

Missing the comforts of home? This smart app has over 500 natural and city sounds to trick your mind into switching off.

Awesome augmented reality features show you local attractions wherever you hold up your smartphone.

Never be lost again.

Essential city-break app that gives public transportation information on metros, subways, buses and even biking directions.

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What’s your most-used travel app? Let us know @WT_Magazine

September // 2014

In

INFOGR APHIC

2013

ANTALYA

IN

ANTALYA

3RD

16 MIL

We have Turkey to thank for the world’s most popular stimulant – coffee. The "ÌÌ > « Ài wÀÃÌ >`i > gift of the drink to the Italian people in the 1500s.

15MIL

MOST VISITED CITIES (MILLION)

14MIL

BECAME THE

13MIL

12MIL

MOST VISITED CITY

11MIL

(BY NUMBER OF INTERNATIONAL ARRIVALS)

10 MIL

IN THE WORLD

CHECK

SING A P ORE

NE W YORK

A N TA LYA

VISITORS

LONDON

MILLION

9 MIL

PA RIS

10.5 with over

According to legend, the city was found by King Attalos II. He was searching for “heaven on earth”, and when he discovered Antalya, he stopped looking.

Centrum

Akseki

Alanya Kas

“ ”beautiful

“I went to Antalya, a most The original St. Nicholas – known to most as Santa Claus – was born in Antalya. The city holds a stunning church bearing his name, which also contains his sarcophagus.

city. It covers an

immense area,

and though of vast bulk is one of the most

attractive towns to be seen anywhere” IBN BATTUTA (Visited the city in 1335)

TIMELINE OF CITIES BY AGE ROME (753BC)

ATHENS (508BC)

World Traveller

The burning rocks of Chimaera are found near the resort of Cirali. In ancient Ì iÃ] Ì i y> ià LÕÀ } from these rocks helped ships avoid running aground. They are caused by natural gases oozing from cracks in the rocks reacting with air and catching alight.

ANTALYA (150BC)

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The Turkish City is one of the oldest in Europe, and has several archaeological sites

LONDON (43AD)

DUBAI (1833AD)

SHANGHAI (1291AD)

September // 2014

In

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SPOTLIGHT ON

The Chilean capital has plenty of top-notch jazz V ÕLÃ Ì iÝ« Ài q iÀi >Ài Ì i v ÕÀ w iÃÌ

SANTIAGO Clubs

Sights

Club de Jazz Located a short walk from the Plaza Ñuñoa, the famed Club de Jazz has been thrilling visitors since 1943.

A friendly atmosphere and an unparalleled jazz history – Louis Armstrong and Herbie Hancock have both taken the stage – make this a must-visit.

Mercado Central Bustling and always full of life, the Mercado Central is Santiago’s busiest market.

Fishmongers holler out their best prices as they try to outdo each other – and the ÃÌÀiiÌÃ >Ài y> i` Ü Ì Ì « class seafood restaurants too.

Cerro San Cristóbal This park is Santiago’s largest green space, and spectacular views of the city can be reached by the funiculars that criss-cross the area, elevating visitors to varied peaks and viewpoints.

Thelonious Named for one of the forefathers of jazz, Thelonious Monk, this ultra-hip spot features youngsters like Gianni Gagliardi and even jazz from around the world – Scandinavian wunderkind Carl Winther performed in July.

Centro Gabriela Mistral > i` v À Ì i wÀÃÌ >Ì American woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature (Chilean poet Gabriela Mistral), this exciting new museum is at the cultural centre of Santiago. Look out for its outdoor antiques fair.

Bar Grez Although strictly a blues club, Bar Grez is welcoming to music fans of all types – and jazz is a frequent favourite.

Just around the corner from the Club de Jazz, Bar Grez offers a range of tasty bar snacks and small meals as well as drinks.

Basílica del Salvador The recently underappreciated Barrio Brasil area of Santiago is undergoing something of a renaissance at the moment, and this neoGothic landmark, lightningdamaged and dating back to 1892, is a meeting point for students and academics alike.

The Jazz Corner The purists’ choice, The Jazz Corner is a tiny venue where the music is taken pretty seriously. National and international performers gather here to play jazz, blues and bossa nova – and enjoy fabulous bar snacks.

The insider...

Miguel Abarca from InterContinental Santiago picks three dining hotspots Puerto Fuy Restaurant is one of the leading sophisticated places for Chilean seafood. Their rooms and décor are very elegant.

Meat reaches new heights at Ox Restaurant, with Chilean premium cuts not tasted in any other restaurant in Santiago. It’s a great place

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for showing off to clients or friends. Mestizo Restaurant in Bicentenario park offers a true oasis in the city, really quiet for lunch where national dishes are reinvented with an interesting twist.

September // 2014

Historic Hotel

Historic Hotel #15

MARRAKECH MEMORIES La Mamounia is full of Moroccan mystery

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Morocco: Home of Casablanca, romance, mystery and the magical La Mamounia hotel. Built nearly a hundred years ago in 1923, the glorious destination has captivated thousands of guests, yet hasn’t aged at all.

Inspired by the Arab-Moorish traditions that are rooted so deep in Moroccan history, the décor brings to mind the opulence of times gone by – fully updated for the 21st century, of course.

In 2009 the hotel re-opened, having undergone an extensive three-year renovation project led by internationally acclaimed interior designer Jacques Garcia, putting it right back at the forefront of luxury hotels in North Africa. Big enough to feel imposing yet small enough to feel cosy, the hotel’s 136 rooms, 71 suites and three glorious riads (private dwellings with up to three bedrooms) add up to a stunning location.

La Mamounia has, throughout history, played host to international royalty, politicians and the jet set. In 1943 Winston Churchill remarked to US President Franklin D. Roosevelt that Marrakech was “the most lovely spot in the whole world”, and that he frequently wintered at the hotel. In fact, many of Churchill’s paintings of > > Õ >½Ã }>À`i à > } Ì i vwV > ÕÀV museum in England. Other luminaries to have enjoyed the hotel’s hospitality include Nelson Mandela, Princess Caroline of Monaco, Kate Winslet and the Rolling Stones.

Inside, the hotel has four famed restaurants: Le Francais, L’Italien, Le Marocain and Le Pavillon de la Piscine. Each of these choice eateries is under the expert watch of executive chef Fabrice Lasnon, who ensures that the cuisine is of the highest standard all year round.

La Mamounia is also proud of its literary and artistic heritage. It is said that Alfred Hitchcock, staying there Ü i w } / i > 7 iÜ / ÕV ] Ü>à ë Ài` Ì > i / i À`Ã Ü i i Ü>à ÃÌ>ÀÌ i` LÞ pigeons on opening his balcony door. Each September, the hotel hosts a literary awards ceremony that celebrates Moroccan literature and encourages its international awareness.

With a hotel this beautiful, it looks like La Mamounia will be making history for the next hundred years as well as it has the last.

September // 2014

Marrakech has some of the world’s most ÃÌÕ } }>À`i à q iÀi >Ài 7/½Ã Ì « Ì Àii

Jardin Majorelle Landscape painter Jacques Majorelle began creating this colourful desert explosion of a garden in 1924, but its long-term future was secured when none other than Yves Saint Laurent bought the villa in order to keep it open to the public.

La Mamounia Park As well as the hotel, La Mamounia is famed for its 20-acre garden, open to the public as > Li>ÕÌ vÕ «>À ° ÀÕ Ì ÌÀiiÃ] vÀ>}À> Ì y ÜiÀÃ and even century-old olive trees line the peaceful walkways of this stunning oasis.

Menara Gardens Against the backdrop of the Atlas Õ Ì> Ã] Ì i ÌÀ> µÕ ÀiyiVÌ } « Ã v the Menara Gardens offer a beautiful haven. / i ÃÌ>Ìi Þ £ Ì Vi ÌÕÀÞ «>Û Ã > «iÀviVÌ spot for picnicking families or romantic couples.

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September // 2014

In

CHECK

Style&Wellness Look good, feel good

You

BEAUTY Trends come and go but when it comes to beauty, there’s a bunch of products that continue to wow the crowd. From a spritz of Chanel No5 to a dab of YSL’s Touche Éclat concealer, here’s our pick of cult beauty classics that have sailed through the decades: (1) Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream (2) YSL Touche Éclat (3) Chanel N° 5

TOP-TO-TOE

TREAT

One of London’s loveliest grande dames, The Savoy hotel, turns 125 this year and is marking the milestone with a 125-minute spa treatment.

The Anniversary Ritual begins with chakra balancing and deep inhalations of an uplifting Clary Sage essential oil blend, before moving on to a back scrub, head massage and facial pressure point massage. The exclusive treatment incorporates 125 movements from across the globe, such as Thaistyle stretches and ancient }Þ«Ì > ÀiyiÝ }Þ] Ì i>Ûi you feeling both relaxed and refreshed - and hopefully looking as good as the old girl herself. fairmont.com/Savoy

NAUTICAL & NICE

Prêt-à-Portea

The Berkeley’s fashioninspired afternoon tea has long been a WT favourite - and it’s about to get even better. For one week only, the London hotel is teaming up with Jimmy Choo to create

World Traveller

delectable shoe-shaped cakes, pastries and biscuits that are bound to tempt even the most disciplined fashionista. Served in the aptly named Caramel Room, it’s available from October 13-19. the-berkeley.co.uk

Does your skin need a post-summer holiday pick-me-up?

Spanish skincare brand SeaSkin has a range of organic, Medinspired products that aim to combat the effects of too much sun, sea and wind. Each formulation contains up to 14 different natural active ingredients, such as avocado, seaweed and plankton, to hydrate and heal. Choose from cleansing oils and serums to super-light moisturisers and anti-wrinkle creams or really push the boat out with bespoke formulations designed to suit your exact skin type. They’ll even create a personalised range to stock aboard your superyacht (well, a girl can dream)…

September // 2014

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In

CHECK

CITY CHIC As we welcome Fashion Week, WT looks at the designers putting their stylish stamp on hotels around the world

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3

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(1) Maje (2) Mary Katrantzo (3) Matthew Williamson (4) Peter Pilotto

A SPL ASH OF

Surrealism 24

WHAT: Designers have long been inspired by artists – Salvador Dalí and Elsa Schiaparelli, Piet Mondrian and Yves Saint Laurent. And this season, the kooky world of surrealism is leading the way.

WEAR TO… The Horst Photographer of Style exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. From September 6 to January 2015, the V&A will «ÀiÃi Ì Ì i `iw Ì Ûi ÀiÌÀ ëiVÌ Ûi v Ì i Ü À v ÀÃÌ *° ÀÃÌ] i v the 20th century’s master photographers.

STAY AT… ME London. Everyone is talking about this 157-room contemporary hotel – and its bustling Radio Rooftop Bar.

September // 2014

PARIS

ROME

Maison Martin Margiela at La Maison Champs Elysées

The Bottega Veneta Suite at the St. Regis Rome

Seventeen of the rooms and suites at this Paris hotel belong to the Couture Collection, Maison Martin >À} i >½Ã wÀÃÌ ÌiÀ À project. Known for its avant-garde approach to design, the Belgium label’s interiors combine classical Ü Ì VÕÀ Õà w à ið lamaisonchampselysees.com

From the furniture and fabrics to the accessories and artwork, well-appointed interiors at this Rome hotel ÀiyiVÌ Ì i Ì> > v>Ã label to a tee. The design house, too, has splashed its creative prowess across a suite at the chain’s New York and Florence outposts. starwoodhotels.com/stregis

LONDON

NEW YORK

Diane von Furstenberg’s Piano Suite at Claridge’s

The Tiffany Suite at the St. Regis New York

Diane von Furstenberg makes her mark on this Mayfair hotel in a glamorous way. The sumptuous suite features handcrafted Balinese trunks, Murano glass sculptures, a leathertop bar and marble wÀi« >ViÃ] >Ã Üi >Ã ÌÀ>Ûi photos taken by the globetrotting designer herself. claridges.com

,iyiVÌ Ûi v Ì i V V Tiffany jewellery box – bright blue walls, silver upholstery, crystal-beaded chandeliers > ` y À> Ü> `iV À>Ì Ã – this 1,700-square-foot suite is the perfect place for stylish women to rest their head. Other designer suites include the Dior and Bentley. starwoodhotels. com/stregis

In

CHECK

SPRING INTO ACTION Looking for something relaxing and rejuvenating yet doesn’t require any physical exertion? Here you go: our pick of hot springs around the world...

TAIWAN This colourful leaf-shaped island is ranked among the world’s top 15 hot spring sites, with more than 100 springs ranging from hot to cold, mud to seabed.

Check in to Shangri-La’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Taipei and hot spring it to Beitou. First discovered in 1894, this mountainous district is revered by Taiwanese and tourists like.

SUB-ZERO THERAPY

WT strips off to try Dubai’s hottest beauty trend

Feeling jaded or jetlagged? Cryo Health in Jumeirah Emirates Towers, the GCC’s wÀÃÌ VÀÞ Ì iÀ>«Þ ë>] «À ÃiÃ Ì «i« you up, fast. Using extreme cold – down to -160°C – to stimulate blood circulation and release endorphins, cryotherapy is used to aid recovery from sports injuries, treat conditions such as arthritis and improve the skin. The wholebody treatment involves standing in a futuristic-looking chamber with your head exposed, wearing just your underpants, socks and gloves, for up to three minutes (if you can last!). WT tried it out and started shivering straight away in -140°C as blood rushed from our extremities to our internal organs and the icy vapour swirled around us. Our legs started to tingle a little uncomfortably and it was mighty cold, but we lasted the full three minutes. Back in our robe on the exercise bike, we felt invigorated as the oxygenw i` L ` ÀÕà i` Ì À Õ} ÕÀ L `Þ° cryo-health.com

BLUE LAGOON, ICELAND Formed in 1976, the Blue Lagoon near Reykjavik, is a one of the great watery wonders of the wellness world. The neighbouring 15-room Blue Lagoon Clinic hotel is the ideal place to drop your bags before sliding into the unique water and slathering yourself in silica mud. You’ll leave the geothermal waters looking and feeling 10 years younger.

PAMUKK ALE, TURKEY Sited near the ancient city of Hierapolis, history and relaxation collide at this picturesque spot. Dump your suitcase >Ì Ì i -«> Ìi ÃÃ>i / iÀ > ] wÛi kilometres from Pamukkale’s hot calcium >`i Ü>ÌiÀÃ] > ` w ` ÕÌ Ü Þ Ì iÃi terraced springs have been labelled a natural wonder, and listed as one of the w iÃÌ Ã«À }à >À Õ ` Ì `>Þ°

ON OUR

RADAR

Say hello to Harrods Shoe Heaven, 42,000sqft (almost) of booties, mules, sandals and stilettos. From Christian Louboutin to Manolo Blahnik, this shopping sanctuary can Li v Õ ` Ì i wvÌ y À v the Knightsbridge store.

World Traveller

The new Farm to Table dining concept at Costa Rica’s Anamaya Resort has caught our attention this month.

Expect lots of raw food, plenty of protein, minimal processing, plenty of fruit and NO junk.

Yoga master Tara Stiles arrives at the W Bali – Seminyak this month (12-14) for a one vv wÌ iÃà ÃiÀ ið / Ü Ì Tara Stiles offers guests a tailored itinerary comprising workouts, spa sessions and consultations.

Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort is celebrating South African Heritage Month this September with delicious and healthy “Braii” barbeques.

South African nationals even get great offers on stays.

September // 2014

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Check In brought to you by

World Traveller Holiday Offers Netherlands De L’Europe Amsterdam 3 nights from USD930 per person.

Includes: Stay in a Deluxe Room with breakfast daily and return airport transfers.

Validity: Now ‘til October 31, 2014.

Switzerland Swissotel Hotel Zurich 3 nights from USD310 per person.

Special offer: Stay 2 nights and receive an additional night free.* Includes: Stay in a Classic Room with breakfast daily and return airport transfers.

Validity: *Now ‘til October 31, 2014. Valid only for arrival on Friday or Saturday.

Maldives

How to Book 26

You can book these offers by calling dnata on +971 4 316 6666 or by visiting dnatatravel.com.

Terms and conditions apply. On the same site you can also sign up to dnata’s newsletter and receive more offers direct to your inbox.

September // 2014

Zitahli Resorts & Spa 3 nights from USD1,420 per person.

Special Offer: Stay 2 nights and receive an additional night free plus complimentary upgrade to half board.

Includes: Stay in a Deluxe Beach Villa with breakfast daily and return seaplane transfers.

Validity: October 1–31, 2014.

Sri Lanka

Phillipines

Heritance Ahungalla 4 nights from USD 290 per person.

Special Offer: Stay 3 nights and receive an additional night free.

Includes: Stay in a Deluxe Room with breakfast daily and return airport transfers.

Validity: October 1–31, 2014.

Traders Hotel Manila 3 nights from USD385 per person.

Includes: Stay in a Deluxe Room with breakfast daily, one time combination of Manila City and Shopping Tour and return airport transfers.

Validity: Now ‘til October 31, 2014.

Indonesia The Westin Resort Nusa Dua Bali 3 night from USD340 per person.

Includes: Stay in a Deluxe Garden Room with breakfast daily and return airport transfers.

Validity: Now ‘til October 31, 2014.

Singapore Concorde Hotel Singapore 3 nights from USD380 per person.

Includes: Stay in a Deluxe Room with breakfast daily and return airport transfers.

Validity: Now ‘til October 31, 2014.

World Traveller

September // 2014

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Check In ROB ARROW Living it up in Lisbon

Alila Jabal Akhdar

One&Only Le Saint Geran

Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard

The Taj Mahal Palace

India

Mauritius

Since it opened in 1903, The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai has created its own unique history. From maharajas and princes to various kings and presidents, the Taj has played the perfect host. The hotel is an architectural marvel and a true landmark of Mumbai.

The resort’s relaxed and discreet luxury is complemented by service that is attentive, yet unobtrusive. Here, terraced and balconied rooms all face out privately to the Indian Ocean.

The Taj Mahal Palace 3 nights from USD720 per person.

Includes: Stay in a Luxury Grand City Facing Room in Palace Wing with breakfast daily and return airport transfers.

Validity: Now ‘til September 30, 2014.

Oman

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Alila Jabal Akhdar 2 nights from USD 360 per person.

Special offer: Receive a complimentary welcome dinner for two plus a 90-minute Spa treatment.

Validity: Now ‘til November 30, 2014. (excluding Eid al Adha).

Includes: Stay in a Mountain View Room with breakfast daily.

Allia Jabal Akhdar is perched 2,000 metres above sea level and overlooks a dramatic gorge, surrounded by awe-inspiring views of the Al Hajar Mountains. The perfect L>Ãi v À iÝ« À } Ì i Ài} ½Ã >} wVi Ì landscape of rugged, untouched beauty while staying in the height of sumptuous comfort.

September // 2014

One&Only Le Saint Geran 3 nights from USD880 per person.

Special Offer: Complimentary upgrade to Half Board plus 2 children under 12 years stay free.

Includes: Stay in a Junior Suite with breakfast daily and return airport transfers.

Validity: Now ‘til September 30, 2014.

England

Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard 2 nights from USD830 per person.

Special offer: Exclusive dnata 2-night package.

Includes: Stay in a Superior Shard Room with breakfast daily and return airport transfers Validity: Now ‘til September 30, 2014.

At 1,016 feet high, The Shard is regarded as one of the most ambitious architectural endeavours in the United Kingdom. The deluxe 202 rooms and suites of the Shangri > Ìi VVÕ«Þ y Àà Î{ Ì xÓ v Ì i Ì ÜiÀ° / i £Ç ÕÝÕÀÞ ÃÕ ÌiÃ] > }ÃÌ Ì i w iÃÌ London, have the best views over this global city.

With the increase in social media, the sharing of information, and with travel being more accessible, our interest in exploring and discovering new places has developed exponentially. One city worth travelling to this season is Portugal’s capital, Lisbon – a hidden gem located on the country’s west coast.

Over the past 10 years Lisbon has received a wealth of investment and much restoration has taken place, making way for well-maintained parks, recreational areas and a plethora of contemporary art galleries and museums.

The best way to get your bearings is to head to Parque Eduardo (the largest park in the city) and stand in front of the Õ}i * ÀÌÕ}ÕiÃi y>}° À iÀi Þ Õ can see straight down the Avenida da Liberdade (Liberty Avenue) towards the Tagus River. Modelled on the Champs Élysée, this stunning boulevard was built by the Marquis du Pombal after the great earthquake in the 1700’s.

Using the Avenida as your starting point, you can use a number of unique public transport options to climb the steep hills found here, including the Funicular, a cable car which was named a national monument in 2002. The cable car will take you to a grand vantage point offering sweeping views across the valley to the Castelo de São Jorge and the Lisbon Cathedral, over towards the Ponte de 25 Abril (Lisbon’s answer to the Golden Gate bridge).

When the sun sets, head to Largo do Chiado, a small square in the fashionable Chiado district. Take some time to stroll through the small cobbled streets, listening to the Latino songs drifting from the small bars and restaurants.

After a night of great food (the seafood in Lisbon is splendid), start your morning at Casa Pasteis, in the riverside area of Belem, for a freshly made ‘pasteis de natas’ (a small tartlet with thick custard inside).

7 Ì ` ÀiVÌ y } ÌÃ vÀ ÕL> ] Ì i Portuguese capital is perfect for a weekend escape. For more information or to book, please visit your nearest dnata outlet or call +971 4 316 6666.

Destination: India Trip name: India Family Adventure Offer from: USD1,295 per person Trip length: 11 Days, Delhi to Delhi What’s Included: Arrival and departure transfer. Old Delhi tour.

Painted havelis of Shekhawati. Sunset camel ride. Guided Amber Palace Fort tour. Cycle rickshaw tour of Jaipur. Ranthambore National Park. Entrance to Taj Mahal and Baby Taj. Entrance and guided tour of Red Fort. Entrance and guide at Fatehpur Sikri. Travel in train, metro, local bus, charter bus, auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw, jeep.

Destination: Italy Trip name: Local living Italy – Southern Tuscany Offer starting from: USD1,185 per person Trip length: 7 days Rome to Rome What’s included: Cooking class using local organic produce, local meat and cheese. Visit to Montalcino and Abbey Sant’Antimo.

Half-day Montepulciano excursion. Five home-cooked dinners at Ì i >}À ÌÕÀ à ° / ÕÀ v >}À ÌÕÀ à ½Ã ÀV >À`Ã] wi `à > ` Vi >À° Transport between destinations and included activities. Travel in Minibus, local bus, train and by walking.

*Price is per person, based on 2 adults sharing. Please allow about EUR 120 or USD 150 for meals not included as per the itinerary.

G FORCE

Call +971 4 316 6666 or email: contactcentre@dnata.com

It’s not just where you go. It’s how There are as many travel companies to explore the world with, as there are places to explore. G adventures travellers are looking for something more than a plane ticket, a hotel room, and a seat on a bus. G adventures makes travel meaningful by thinking à > ] Ì } V> ] > ` Ì } >L ÕÌ Ü >Ì Li iwÌÃ Ì i traveller, the trip, and the planet best.

G adventures use local transport – buses, taxis, commuter trains, etc – because it’s the most economical and colourful way to go. Accommodation could mean a handpicked downtown hotel one night, a unique homestay the next, and camping under the stars the night after that.

The groups average about 12 travellers per departure, and are typically a mix of solo travellers, friends travelling together, and couples, all of varying ages, backgrounds and nationalities.

Come prepared to make plenty of new best friends…

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September // 2014

Advertorial

OUT AND ABOUT

These landmarks are nearby and worth exploring...

AL BALAD / i Ìii } ÃÌÀiiÌÃ v Ì i " ` / Ü >Ài Ü iÀi Þ Õ Ü w ` Ì i >} V> i``> v ÞiÃÌiÀ Þi>À° - Ì À Õ} Ì i L>â>>À vviÀ } ÌÀ>` Ì > Ü>ÀiÃ] > ` Ì i Û Ã Ì Ì i i>ÀLÞ >Ãiiv ÕÃiÕ °

JEDDAH FOUNTAIN "vwV > Þ Ü >à } > `½Ã v Õ Ì> ] Ì Ã } ÌÞ iÌ ÃÌÀi> is one of the tallest in the Ü À `° >ÃÌ } Ü>ÌiÀ Ì ÛiÀ > Ì ÕÃ> ` viiÌ } ] > ` V> Li Û iÜi` vÀ > ÞÜ iÀi i``> °

OPEN-AIR ART i``> ½Ã «ÕL V ë>Vià >Ài «>V i` vÕ v v>ÃV >Ì } >ÀÌ > ` ÃVÕ «ÌÕÀið ÃÌ v> Õà à / i VÞV i , Õ `>L ÕÌ] > } > Ì L i ÃiÌ Õ« > « Ì °

GETAWAY to JEDDAH Spend your Eid Al-Adha at the luxurious InterContinental Jeddah

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Eid Al-Adha falls on October 4, and what better way to celebrate than with a luxurious holiday escape? The InterContinental Jeddah is the perfect place to unwind, ÀiyiVÌ > ` Ài Vi Ü Ì Þ ÕÀ Ûi` ið Located on the Corniche in Al Hamra, ÛiÀ } Ì i ,i` -i>] Ì i Ìi L >ÃÌà 300 beautifully appointed rooms and 37 ÃÕ ÌiÃ] > Þ v Ü V vviÀ v> Ì>ÃÌ V Û iÜà v Ì i Ãi> > ` v> Õà i``> v Õ Ì> ° / i }i iÀ ÕÃ Þ Ã âi` ÃÜ } « à «iÀviVÌ v À > µÕ V ` « Liv Ài LÀi> v>ÃÌ] v Üi` LÞ > >vÌiÀ Ài >Ý } Ì i Àià ÀÌ¿Ã } `i Ã> `ð Ƃ ` ëi> } v v `] }>ÃÌÀ iÃ Ü w ` > i>Ûi i>ÀÌ iÀi i``> ° / Àii ÀiÃÌ>ÕÀ> ÌÃ Û i Ì Ìi>Ãi }ÕiÃÌý Ì>ÃÌiLÕ`Ã\ Ƃ iÀ`>ÕÃ] Ì i > `>Þ ` } ÀiÃÌ>ÕÀ> ÌÆ -«i>ÀÃ] Ü V ÃiÀÛià `i iVÌ>L i VÕÌà v }À i` i>ÌÃÆ > ` Ì i Þ«iÀ vÀià à >À iÌ] ÃiÀÛ } Ì i V>ÌV v Ì i `>Þ Ì }À>ÌivÕ ` iÀð Ƃà Üi >Ã Ì iÃi v> Ì>ÃÌ V ` } Ûi ÕiÃ] Ƃ >v À> Ã Ì i `i> « >Vi Ì >Ûi > VÕ« v vÀiÃ Þ }À Õ ` V vvii > ` « à `i V>vj ÎÈä ÃiÀÛià à >V Ã Ì À Õ} ÕÌ Ì i `>Þ° If you want to maintain a healthy lifestyle Ü i Ài >Ý }] ÌiÀ Ì i Ì> i``> >Ã Þ Õ V ÛiÀi`° / i iÝÌi à Ûi i> Ì V ÕL vi>ÌÕÀià ` À Ã>Õ >Ã] >VÕââ Ã] > >ÃÃ>}i À > ` õÕ>à V ÕÀÌ] > } Ü Ì > ÃÌ>Ìi v Ì i >ÀÌ }Þ > ` i> Ì L>À° 7 Ì v>V Ì ià i Ì iÃi] LÞ Ì i Ì i Þ Õ V i i Þ Õ½ Li V Õ Ì } ` Ü Ì i `>ÞÃ Õ Ì Þ ÕÀ iÝÌ `>Þ q > ` ÀÕà } Ì iÝ« Ài ÌiÀ Ì i Ì> i``> > ÛiÀ >}> ° ihg.com September // 2014

THE HOTELS 7 iÌ iÀ Ì½Ã Þ ÕÀ wÀÃÌ Ì i ÕL> ] Þ Õ½Ài > Ài}Õ >À Û Ã Ì À À iÛi > V> ] ÌiÀ Ì i Ì> ÕL> iÃÌ Û> ÌÞ > `

À Ü i * >â> ÕL> iÃÌ Û> ÌÞ V Õ ` ½Ì Li LiÌÌiÀ V>Ìi`\ > ÃÌ i½Ã Ì À Ü vÀ

ÕL> ÌiÀ >Ì > Ƃ À« ÀÌ] iÀi ÕÌià vÀ ` Ü Ì Ü ÕL> ° 7 Ì Ã «« }] V V ÕL> > ` >À à > ` V Õ Ì iÃà attractions on your doorstep, both hotels offer the perfect location from which to iÝ« Ài Ì i V ÌÞ°

THE DINING ÌiÀ Ì i Ì> ÕL> iÃÌ Û> ÌÞ «>V à so much quality into its four restaurants Þ Õ Ü ½Ì ii` Ì Ûi ÌÕÀi vÕÀÌ iÀ >wi `° ÌiÀ >Ì > VÕ Ã i «Ài«>Ài` >Ì Ûi V } ÃÌ>Ì Ã V> Li v Õ ` >Ì Ƃ Ãi] Ü i Ý Ã > ÌÀ>` Ì > Ài V «>Ì ÃÃiÀ i Ì >Ì Ü ÌÀ> ë ÀÌ Þ Õ Ì ÃÕ Þ *>À ð / i Ài V Ì i i à V Ì Õi` Ü Ì ,iyiÌà *>À * iÀÀi >} > Ài q vviÀ } ÃÌÕ } V i ÃÌ>ÀÀi` VÕ Ã i° À à iiÀ Û>À iÌÞ] Ì i Ì iÀ > `] ̽à >À` Ì Li>Ì Ì i

À Ü i * >â> iÃÌ Û> ÌÞ° 7 Ì ÃiÛiÀ> ` } «Ì Ã Ì >Ì Ì> i Ƃà > ] Ì> > > ` ƂÀ>L > VÕ Ã i ­> ` iÛiÀÞÌ } LiÌÜii ®] Ì iÀi½Ã > Ü À ` v y>Û ÕÀ Ì ` ÃV ÛiÀ Ì ÃÕ Ì Ì i «> >Ìià v > >}iÃ

THE DEALS

FAMILY MATTERS InterContinental Hotels Group understands how important it is to spend µÕ> ÌÞ Ì i Ü Ì Þ ÕÀ Ûi` iÃ

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World Traveller

September // 2014

The world’s most fabulous

FAMILY HOTELS

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From treehouses to treasure hunts, pony-trekking to PlayStations, we’ve scoured the globe to find the most exciting places to celebrate Eid AlAdha. Here’s what we found…

World Traveller

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Atlantis, The Palm, UAE September // 2014

The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, Greece The Navarino Dunes development is home to two five-star hotels, including the Westin, and two fantastic hubs for kids. One is the SandCastle, a mini-hotel with games, play areas, activities and sleepovers. Little ones are looked after too at Cocoon, a kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; club and crèche for babies, plus parents have a golf course and 4,000-square-metre spa to keep them busy. The Westin itself is no slouch in the luxury stakes, with 70-square-metre family suites, plus waterslides, ten-pin bowling and ping-pong to keep the troops happy. westincostanavarino.com Kids love... Natura Hall, an interactive science and learning space.

Chewton Glen, England Kids are the lords of the manor at this gorgeous country house hotel on the edge of the New Forest. With 130 acres of grounds, they can really run wild with kite-flying, mini croquet, pony trekking, cycling (including a trailer for tiny tots), and swimming in the indoor and outdoor pools. Bed down in a family suite or a super stylish Treehouse built on stilts in the forest, plus thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lovely spa and an acclaimed restaurant. chewtonglen.com Kids love... The bumper welcome pack that includes mini bathrobes, slippers and wellington boots for puddle jumping.

The Ranch at Rock Creek, USA

The Ranch at Rock Creek, USA Once a billionaireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home, this Montana resort is a cross between a country manor and wilderness retreat. With over 6,000 acres of unspoilt wilderness, the focus of the Little Grizzlies Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Club is the great outdoors. Activities are themed, for example â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;rivers and pondsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;cowboys and horses.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Horse riding is obviously big here, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also archery, ten-pin bowling, horse-drawn stagecoach rides and an outdoor pool. There are rustic-chic log cabins or glamping in swish tents, plus yoga, spa treatments, mountain biking and fly-fishing for grown-ups. theranchatrockcreek.com Kids love... Spending their morning at the stables learning to care for the animals under supervision of course.

.G 4Q[CN /QPEGCW s 4CHĆ&#x192;GU 2CTKU France Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to say bonjour to the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Le Petit Royal workshop series.

Held each Saturday at La Cuisine restaurant, children can get creative with an assortment of interactive activities, from pizza-making classes with the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Michelin-starred chef to movie screenings and DJ lessons. Outside the hotel, children can discover the best parts of Paris, with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pirateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; boat trips down the Seine. leroyalmonceau.com Kids love... treasure hunts through the Louvreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Egyptian galleries.

Chewton Glen, England, above and below

#VNCPVKU 6JG 2CNO 7#' Located at the tip of the world-famous Palm Jumeirah, this enormous hotel has got enough sights and attractions to entertain the family for a month. As well as world-famous waterpark Aquaventure, dolphin diving experiences and the Lost Chambers Aquarium, there are entertainment groups for kids of all ages, like the Atlantis Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Club that takes youngsters aged 3-12 on underwater safaris, chef school, and to the epic Little Piratesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Playground where their imagination can run riot. Teens will love The Zone, one of the most hightech arcades around with every game imaginable. atlantisthepalm.com Kids love... Aquaventureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tower of Neptune, which houses a shark tank.

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Grootbos Garden Lodge, South Africa

.QPFQP '&+6+10 *QVGN 'PINCPF Opened last September, this grand Georgian building in Fitzrovia has the look of an aristocratic manor house but with an urban edge. While parents will enjoy cocktails in the opulent lobby bar (the baroque cornicing is exquisite) and cuisine from Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton, mini-sophisticates are well catered for as well. The family package includes a suite with a free connecting room decked out with a London-themed tent, kid-friendly minibar and activity books, as well as bespoke experiences such as zipping around the streets in a Mini Cooper or cantering on a pony in Hyde Park. edition-hotels.marriott.com Kids love... In-room movie nights with brownies and popcorn galore.

Five-star luxury doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to exclude families, as the wonderful Grootbos Garden Lodge proves. Located at the very southern tip of Africa, where the Atlantic and Indian oceans collide to create one of the richest marine ecosystems in the world, Grootbos Garden Lodge is an adventure of a lifetime for explorers of all ages. And the experience isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t limited to the sea, either. The enormous and beautiful lodges on offer can hold up to 12 guests, perfect for even the biggest family, and boast their own pools â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the awesome Villa even comes complete with a private guide, chef and butler. grootbos.com Kids love... 4x4 flower safaris and horse riding are a gentle treat for youngsters.

Pony riding in Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hyde Park

,WOGKTCJ $GCEJ *QVGN 7#' On the same iconic stretch of beach as the world-famous Burj Al Arab, the Jumeirah Beach Hotel is one of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most instantly recognisable structures. The leisure facilities here are unrivalled, even by the mighty Atlantis. The hotel has its own scuba diving centre, five swimming pools, The Hub for teens and Sinbad Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Club for little ones. For parents, gorgeous spa facilities, stunning restaurants and the hottest clubs in town mean this will be a holiday to remember for the whole family. jumeirah.com Kids love... Complimentary access to Wild Wadi Water Park, full of epic rides and slides.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando, USA This new resort at Walt Disney World Florida combines Four Seasons style with world-class family facilities (a free kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; camp and five-acre Explorer Island). The latter is reason enough to check in, with a massive 7,590-square-foot pool, lazy river, huge Splash Zone with waterslides and climbing wall - weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re exhausted just thinking about it! Luckily, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a sumptuous spa, golf course and six restaurants. Besides, who doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to go to Disney World? fourseasons.com Kids love... Outdoor movie nights and a video gaming centre â&#x20AC;&#x201C; totally cool.

*Ă?VGN *GTOKVCIG /QPVG %CTNQ Monaco

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A holiday hotspot for the rich and famous, this historic hotel caters to the little ones, too. The VIK (aka Very Important Kids) offers children a choice of activities: indoors or out. On site youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a heated pool, cinema and private beach. Step outside the hotel and the concierge will pile the little ones onto an open-air bus for a tour of Monaco. montecarlosbm.com Kids love... Afternoon tea at the LimĂšn Bar. If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good enough for the adultsâ&#x20AC;Ś

September // 2014

Four Seasons Resort Orlando, USA, above and below

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Wild Wadi Water Park, UAE World Traveller

September // 2014

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Le Royal Monceau - Raffles Paris September // 2014

The Cove Rotana Resort, UAE Rotana’s first property in Ras Al Khaimah embraces the uniqueness of Arabian culture with luxury and comfort.

Families will love the fabulous pools and restaurants, while big kids and grown-ups can get wet and wild with jet ski rentals off the hotel’s beachfront, and dads can get away from it all with a round of golf or a guided tour of Ras Al Khaimah’s numerous and varied historical sites.

Desert and fishing trips can also be organised with the friendly concierge, meaning that with a little planning, your holiday will be jam-packed. rotana.com Kids love... Flipper’s Kids’ Club, with daily activities and games.

Zion View, Sri Lanka The idea of family is an important one to the owners of Zion View – they’re a family themselves. Sena and his wife and son take great pleasure in welcoming explorers from all over the world into their little village paradise, found in the highlands of Sri Lanka. There are nature walks of varying difficulties, each one offering views of ancient temples, splashing waterfalls and peaceful tea plantations. Parents can unwind with a soothing ayurvedic massage – just the thing to recharge ahead of another day’s adventure. ella-guesthouse-srilanka.com Kids love... The numerous play areas – even the restaurants are fun.

The Cove Rotana Resort, UAE

La Réserve Paris Apartments, France

La Réserve Paris Apartments, France Sleek and spacious, these luxury serviced apartments are perfect for families. We love Apartment 1, with three en-suite bedrooms, kitchen, private garden and amazing views of the Eiffel Tower.

Cots, high chairs and baby monitors are provided, while colouring pencils, books and old-fashioned games are all available.

The concierge can arrange family activities such as fun guided museum visits, horseriding, swimming, ice-skating in winter and even treasure hunts. For mum and dad, there’s a housekeeper and chef on site to help clean and cook. lareserve-paris.com Kids love... Complimentary PlayStation consoles with all the latest games.

St. Regis Doha, Qatar Doha is a fascinating city, and if you’re an explorer, you’ll need a reliably luxurious place to rest in between outdoor adventures. The St. Regis delivers in spades, with the emphasis on having fun – in the most glamorous way possible. Staff take pride in being the most renowned child-friendly hotel in town, and the knowledgeable concierge can help you put together family excursions in Doha and beyond to help you explore the local area, before coming back to one of the large connecting family rooms – ideal for peace of mind. stregisdoha.com Kids love... The Playroom offers a range of creative and fun activities like face painting, treasure hunts and video games.

Le Pirogue, Mauritius, above and below

La Pirogue, Mauritius Mauritius may have a reputation for being a honeymoon hotspot, but there’s plenty to keep families entertained at the beautiful La Pirogue resort. For starters, the superfun Sun Kids’ Club is open for a full 12 hours a day, meaning that no matter how early your little ones rise, there’ll be an activity taking place to try. As well as numerous park and play areas, there are activities like mini-golf, wind-surfing, swimming and nature excursions to suit kids of all ages. lapirogue.com Kids love... Teens’ Club, which offers team sports, trips and well-supervised party nights for youngsters aged 12-17.

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September // 2014

Cape Town

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This page: Aerial view of Cape Town and Table Mountain September // 2014

Cape Town

Cool

From show-stopping food and stylish neighbourhoods, to scenic routes and seaside villages, follow faux Capetonian Sarah Khan on a tour around her adopted hometown

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World Traveller

September // 2014

Cape Town

ark my words: this will be Cape Town’s year. Its already stylish citizens are rising to the occasion of the label of World Design Capital 2014 with a host of new dining and shopping openings, but local classics are also generating new buzz. As a recently transplanted Capetonian, I’ve reveled in uncovering the city’s gems.

There’s no dearth of chic places to lay your head in Cape Town, in a mix of locations ranging from the beach to the centre of town. One of the city’s most exclusive addresses? Ellerman House, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from a bluff in posh Bantry Bay. A former residence converted into a 13-room hotel with two private villas, the sleek property is laden with contemporary art and boasts an über-modern wine cellar stocked with 6,000 bottles. If you prefer being in the heart of town, I recommend the rosehued Mount Nelson. It’s a Mother City institution,

Every weekend, the Old Biscuit Mill turns into the city’s best outdoor party

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with elegant grounds and a gracious high tea – one of my personal favourites. You’ll be greeted by a familiar face after you’ve made your way down the long, palm-fringed driveway: a statue of Mahatma Gandhi presides over the entrance. For the ultimate wow factor, the One&Only Cape Town in the central V&A Waterfront area is the place to book. It was the very first place I stayed when I first arrived in Cape Town, and I was blown away when I saw what lies beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows: they merely serve as expansive picture frames for capturing the stellar views of Table Mountain.

September // 2014

So you’ve booked your flight and reserved your room; now what? The next thing to do as soon as you have all that squared away is to reserve one of the coveted tables at the Test Kitchen or the Pot Luck Club, the two restaurants by celebrated local chef Luke Dale-Roberts. Both eateries are located in the hip Old Biscuit Mill and serve his inventive cuisine; if you only have time for one, I’d recommend the Pot Luck Club, with its great vantage point overlooking the city and more casual ambience. Every weekend, the Old Biscuit Mill turns into the city’s best outdoor party, and that’s where you’ll find me most Saturdays: dozens of local food vendors open up stalls in this former Victorian warehouse, selling everything from ostrich jerky to shawarmas to steak pies. For pricey Asian tapas that are worth every rand, head to Haiku.

Bonus: the sleek new location at the popular V&A Waterfront mall shares a roof with Bukhara, Cape Town’s best Indian restaurant, which means you can order off either menu – perfect for when I’m craving some dim sum paired with chicken makhni!

En route to the Cape of Good Hope, I’ve stopped by the scenic village of Scarborough, where top chef Bruce Robertson invites diners into his personal beach home for two intimate lunch sittings a day. He serves a multi-course seafood meal along with some rollicking anecdotes – he’s quite the character. For a sugary treat, I head to Jason Bakery, where a local version of New York’s cult cronut is on offer (around here, though, it’s known as a dough-ssant).

When I’m looking to exercise my wallet, I usually drive straight to the fabulous mall at the V&A Waterfront. But let’s be honest: a mall is a mall. If you’re on the hunt for some finds that are a little more unique, Long Street and Kloof Street are peppered with chic boutiques and indie shops catering to a more niche clientele. Lately, I’ve noticed that Cape Town’s stylish set are descending in droves on nearby Bree Street, which has undergone quite a transformation in the past two years. At Skinny LaMinx, illustrator and designer Heather Moore sells quirky textiles and home goods that make for fun souvenirs, like boldly patterned tea towels and colourful satchels. You can’t

Clockwise from far left: V&A Waterfront; skinny laminx coffee shop; Shimmy Beach Club; Long Street Cafe; local snacks.

miss British fashion label Paul Smith thanks to the bright blue façade, behind which you’ll find edgy men’s and womenswear with the designer’s signature striped motif. I adore the supple bags, belts, and iPad cases by Chloe Townsend for her luxury leather label Missibaba, where she incorporates her world travels into her work. The Robert Sherwood Design Showroom on Bree is a must-stop on the itinerary for anyone who dabbles in interior design – the locally and globally sourced range of pop art, industrial-style lamps and contemporary furniture has been curated carefully.

Capetonians are famously laid-back, but that doesn’t mean they don’t know how to party. The sultry Asoka bar, with its Asian-inspired Zen aesthetic, has been plying chic Capetonians with cocktails for years, and remains a fixture on the nightlife scene. For an even more vibrant beach-party vibe, I like Shimmy Beach Club, which opened last year on the water and has quickly become the place to be. ‘&Union’ helped herald Bree Street’s resurgence a few years ago, and has since become something of an institution, thanks mostly to its craft beers. There’s a different live act every night at the Piano Bar, making it the perfect venue for a low-key, jazzy night out. It brings a New York-style music scene to Cape Town, but with local flair – and as a New Yorker in Cape Town, I appreciate that vibe.

Come December, summer is in full swing in Cape Town, and sun-starved people are drawn to the sprawling expanses of pristine beaches and glittering waters – Bay and Clifton are the top attractions.

The most scenic swath of sand, however, remains under the radar: Llandudno beach is devoid of shops and businesses, and feels like it’s miles away from the city. If you’re not keen on being a beach bum, World Traveller

Eat Like a Local Steak salomie -« VÞ] VÕÀÀ i` Liiv ÜÀ>««i` > y> Þ] buttery Malaysian-style roti

Bobotie

A classic Cape Malay dish of minced beef topped with egg custard

Biltong -Ƃ ÃÌÞ i `À i` iÀ Þ q Liiv Ã Ì i ÃÌ popular, but varieties range from ostrich to tuna

Boerewors ->ÕÃ>}i À à q }iÌ i vÀ i v Ì i many street carts that sprout up along Long -ÌÀiiÌ] Ì iÞ½Ài «iÀviVÌ v À > >Ìi } Ì Ã >V

Gatsby

The ultimate sandwich, a huge hoagie stuffed with spicy meats and French fries.

One can feed four

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Text by: Sarah Khan / India Today Travel Plus / The Interview People

Cape Town

Clockwise from above: Babylonstoren; Good Hope Cape; Melting steak, pumpkin and tamarillo.

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September // 2014

WHERE TO STAY At the foot of Table Mountain, just a short stroll from downtown Cape Town, is Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, a sophisticated hotel offering various rooms and suites. Located in the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is the chic 91-room One&Only Cape Town, a luxurious base from which to explore the city.

there are plenty of other stunning sights to keep you occupied as well. From the moment your plane descends toward Cape Town it’s hard to miss the iconic Table Mountain, a hulking plateau seemingly dropped from above right into the centre of the city.

It’s worth taking the cable car to the top on your first day, both to let the staggering ocean and city views blow your mind, but also to get yourself oriented with the landscape below. Active types may want to hike

the world’s most scenic routes.

There’s plenty to keep you occupied in Cape Town for days, but sometimes I crave a quiet escape. A mere 45-minute drive east of the city will take you to the heart of the Winelands, where South Africa’s world-famous bottles are produced. Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are lovely towns with fabulous restaurants, but I also urge visitors to spend a night or two at Babylonstoren, a super-chic farm resort

From the moment your plane descends toward Cape Town it’s hard to miss the iconic Table Mountain 45

it instead of taking the easy route, but I recommend climbing Lion’s Head mountain next door instead – you get the same jaw-dropping vistas, only these include Table Mountain itself as well. And take it from me, a confirmed city girl who’s far from athletic: it’s not that strenuous a trek to the top. One of my favourite things to show visitors to Cape Town is the drive toward the Cape of Good Hope, easily one of World Traveller

with impeccable design and impeccable food.

An hour and a half up the coast, Paternoster is a breathtakingly beautiful seaside village notable for its lovely whitewashed cottages that seem to blend into the ivory sand. Book a getaway at the ultra-modern Strandloper Ocean Boutique Hotel, which has 16 cozy white-on-white rooms and suites, and thank your luck that you decided to come to Cape Town.

September // 2014

Spain

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A WALK of ART

Galleries don’t have to be a slog. In Madrid, the world’s greatest works are just a stroll from the city’s packed tapas bars. Laura Goulden’s found a way we can all appreciate art

Septmeber // 2014

boffin in a navy-blue blazer was all it took to smash my selfconfidence. Over he bowled one autumn afternoon at the Tate gallery: “Isn’t the way he simultaneously uses the language of figural and abstract art marvellous?” he murmured breathlessly, blocking my view. Until his arrival, I’d been enjoying the Gerhard Richter seascape in my own, breezily ignorant way (thinking, truth be told, about how well the grey tones would go with my sofa, and wondering if they had a poster version in the gift shop).

Now, suddenly everything was shattered by the words of this amateur art critic – ruined because, after I’d mentally dismissed him, self-doubt descended.

Maybe he was right? Maybe I was the idiot for not appreciating the works around me beyond their pretty shapes and colours.

I’m no Brian Sewell, but I love art as much as the next guy. I have a membership to the Tate and, in a new city, always gravitate towards bright gallery walls rather than dusty museum shelves.

But there’s always the niggling feeling that I might be missing something. It’s the kind of doubt that, every time I look at a painting, whispers in my ear with the treacly tones of that blue-blazered pseud – but not quite loudly enough to propel me towards night school and art homework.

Recently, during one of my midmorning escape-the-office Google searches for ‘great weekend getaways with a little culture attached’, Madrid popped up. Specifically, a company called Art Tours Madrid, with its promise to unlock understanding while, crucially, pointing out good bars and restaurants. Something made sense. How could Madrid not be fun with all those rock ‘n’ roll creative names? Dalí with his droopy clocks.

Picasso, all eyes where noses should be.

Best of all, the city with one of the world’s World Traveller

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Spain

most astonishing collections of art is also Europe’s most laid-back capital, where friendliness and siestas, jamón and Cava are as much as part of the culture as paintings. Translation: a long weekend of mild enlightenment – with escapism.

So, just weeks later, in the thick end-ofday’s heat, I meet up with three strangers at the Elba Benítez Gallery, a pretty white building in a courtyard. The tour will take us to five small private galleries in the quiet streets of Las Salesas, a bohemian part of town packed with art buried behind heavy, unsigned doors, so you’d never find it without someone who knows what they’re doing. Our someone is tour guide Jessica. If this were France, Jessica would doubtless be stern and smartly dressed – and cross that I’m late. This being Spain, she’s seriously hot, in jeans, and doesn’t even notice my tardiness.

We start with photo art. This is a smart move for an initial confidence-boost: photographs seem ‘easier’ than paintings, perhaps because we all secretly think we’re pretty nifty with our camera phones and could probably turn professional (how hard can it be?). In the Mondo Gallery, a small, warmly lit shop on quiet, cobbled Calle San Lucas, Jessica ushers us around Andrea Santolaya’s pictures of thickly made-up faces and tutus in disarray, and explains that the pictures are a ‘glimpse of the Russian Royal Ballet dancers’ lives behind the scenes’.

I could have worked this out for myself – which is reassuring. Normally galleries make you edgy: guards waiting to pounce at the merest glimpse of a camera, all library-like silence and reverential whispers. But these indie versions are more relaxed. We’re talking at normal volume and asking questions like, ‘How much is the one of the ballet dancer doing her knitting?’ At £1,600, it’s sort-of doable, which makes it less intimidating – even I could own a piece of art, if I didn’t eat for a couple of months.

We do a few more galleries photographs and sculptures with common-sense

Opening page: The Prado Museum. This page, clockwise from top left: Gran Vio and Edificio Metropolis; Plaza Mayor; The Caixa Forum museum; The Reina Sofía.

goes silent and I’m waiting for the ‘What the hell does it mean?’ explanation from Jessica – but she shrugs and says: “Don’t try to understand everything.” It was worth coming on the tour just for that revelation.

It’s liberating. If the guide isn’t fussed about ‘getting’ everything, then I guess I don’t need to be. Feeling like we’ve been

Normally galleries make you edgy: guards waiting to pounce at the merest glimpse of a camera. But these indie versions are more relaxed 48

explanations – and I’m enjoying it, thinking that maybe there isn’t so much to this art ‘appreciation’ after all. Then comes the final exhibit in the cool whiteand-concrete Max Estrella Gallery. It’s a mesh-covered lightbox that seems to climb out of the floor. All I can think about are those ‘90s Magic Eye images where, if you went cross-eyed enough, butterflies would flutter out of the page. The room Septmeber // 2014

let in on the art world’s secret, we give our brains a rest and stand in front of the Magic Eye, flailing our arms about trying to touch the illusion.

By the time we’ve finished, it’s Saturday night in Madrid, and a couple of us celebrate our progress with patatas bravas and liquorice gin. This leads to more gin and dancing, and forgetting that we’re here for the paintings, not the parties in

nearby Chueca. It doesn’t matter which bars you go to (which is handy since I can’t remember any names) because they’re nearly all packed, but still welcoming, and the action spills onto the streets, making you feel as if you’ve stumbled across a festival.

I’m supposed to be taking on Picasso at 9am, but that plan goes out the window as, next morning, I’m losing a fight with a hangover and lie groaning in my hotel bed until lunchtime. Rising, I drag my feet along wide white boulevards lined with OTT architecture, all frills and domes and twirly balconies. Dipping off the busy Gran Vía into the cooler backstreets, I end up in La Latina, one of Madrid’s oldest quarters, basically a few rows of cool, cavelike wine bars. I could easily cop out of the art and spend the rest of the day here, but instead I make mental notes for later and bravely get back to the task in hand.

On Jessica’s recommendation, I visit the Lázaro Galdiano Museum, named after the Spanish publisher and financier who was also crazy about art. By the time he died in 1947 he had amassed more than 12,600 works (among them paintings by Goya, Velázquez and El Greco) that he donated to the state.

Top Galleries and Tours The Elba Benítez Gallery, a pretty white building in > V ÕÀÌÞ>À`] V Õ`ià wÛi small private galleries in the quiet streets of Las Salesas, a bohemian part of town.

Lázaro Galdiano Museum, named after the Spanish publisher, is packed with the paintings donated to the state LÞ Ì i w > V iÀ ÛiÀ Ì i Þi>ÀÃ q among them paintings by Goya, Velázquez and El Greco.

Local art initiative Art Gallery Tour Madrid (artgallerytour. es) runs two-hour small-group tours, in English, of Las Salesas, Las Letras, Conde Duque and Salamanca (Tue-Sat).

The Art Walk card, or Paseo del Arte, grants access to big-name galleries the Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza, and can be bought at all three.

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Clockwise from right: Plaza de Santa Ana; The Reina Sofía; Art at Reina Sofía; The Azca financial district on the Paseo de la Castellana; Tim van Laere Gallery.

Instead of being trussed up in a formal gallery, the works are hanging in his former home, which makes them less daunting. There are rooms filled with twisted gold bangles, slices of stainedglass window, and absurdly elaborate everyday items, such as the jewel-studded sewing kit. Unlike the bigger museums, it’s so quiet that you can look at exhibits utterly alone, which, in all honesty, can be a bit creepy. When I tiptoe into a dim room full of scary-looking 15th-century swords, a light clicks, I yelp and run out.

The building is a work of art, too. From the outside it looks like a pink French Fancy. Within, angels explode out of the ceiling and gold frames hang on walls the colour of water at the bottom of the ocean.

A Velázquez is displayed nonchalantly, and in the room next door is Juan Carreño de Miranda’s painting of Doña Inés de Zuñiga, who looks like the Paris Hilton of 1660, hanging out with her very small dog, wearing a very big dress.

Like most novices, I generally go for attractive stuff: seascapes or cheery splashes of colour. But following Jessica’s epiphany, it’s the arcane, ugly Goyas I fall for. In The Witches Sabbath, the devil is

Angels explode out of the ceiling and gold frames hang on walls

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disguised as a black ram surrounded by topless hags. Dead children and skeletons swirl against a black sky. They’re morbidly fascinating – even if I don’t have a clue what’s going on in them.

That night, instead of sloshing back sangria in La Latina, I find myself googling Goya. I glaze over when I read about his technique, but am riveted by the stories behind the paintings and their social commentary. His Disasters of War etchings protest against the violence during the conflict with Napoleon, and were so politically charged that they weren’t made public until after his death.

There he was, doing court paintings for the king, and all the time protesting against the institution that fed him.

Goya’s my new hero.

Septmeber // 2014

WHERE TO STAY ··· The ME Hotel on central Plaza de Santa Ana, is an ultraglamorous base, with one of Madrid’s hottest bars on its roof. Hotel Urban is filled with art and has a mini gallery in the basement, while the Intercontinental Madrid Hotel promises a luxurious stay in the city. For information visit dnatatravel.com or call +971 4 316 6666.

Text by: Laura Goulden Photography supplied by: Corbis / Arabian Eye

It’s Sunday before I make my way down leafy Paseo del Prado, the Mulholland Drive of the art world. All the big-name galleries are here – the Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza – and inside them are works by the world’s most famous artists. I take my Prado audio guide and a map indicating the biggest hitters. According to this, out of the 1,300 works on display, 51 are unmissable. The Prado is intimidating, but if you show your map to the nearest attendant, they’ll point out the most sensible route through the corridors. Mine, seeing that I look a bit overwhelmed, goes as far as circling the really, really big works, giving me a secret – and far more manageable – 13 paintings to get through. How beginner-friendly is that? There are the inert noblemen and religious scenes you’d expect, but there’s also Rubens’ The Birth of the Milky Way and Velázquez’s Las Meninas, which, back in the day, flipped court painting on its head by putting the artist in the painting World Traveller

and the king outside of it. The crowd around Hieronymus Bosch’s technicolour Garden of Earthly Delights is as excitable as mums at a Gary Barlow concert, but it’s worth waiting for your turn.

I leave the Goyas until last. His most famous painting, El Tres de Mayo, shows a mass execution of Spanish civilians by French troops in 1808. And the room dedicated to his Black Paintings is a beautiful horror show, dark in colour, darker in subject matter, showing Saturn devouring his son, demons in flight, peasants fighting to the death, and a really sad brown dog. It’s all pretty morbid stuff, but I’m starting to understand why I’m into them – I’m interested in what they have to say.

Goya did the Black Paintings directly onto the wall of his farmhouse. I know from last night’s Google research that, because he was painting at the time of war, the Spanish Inquisition and the violent reign of Ferdinand VII, some

think his work is a protest against a world without reason. He had also gone deaf. The thought of him living among these terrifying images in a suffocating, soundless world makes me shudder.

I’m hoping for some 20th-century light relief at modern Reina Sofía, which, incidentally, you should save until last because it’s free on Sundays. But this time, fickle as I am, I fall in love with Picasso, and spend a good 20 minutes staring uncomfortably at the screams, sharp angles and dismembered limbs of Guernica. Listening to a teacher talking her group through the three triangles of its composition I realise that, while I’ve learnt about the lives of these artists and their motivation, I know very little about their technique. But I’ve also realised that I needn’t worry too much, either. The next time a boffin in a blue blazer sounds off, I’m going to repeat my new mantra – the wise words of Jessica: “Don’t try to understand everything.” And enjoy.

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Iconic Great Lakes

Iconic

GREAT LAKES

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The USA and Canada hold many of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most spectacular lakes, and Crater Lake, found in the Crater Lake National Park, Oregon is among the most beautiful. Famous for its waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deep blue colour and clarity, Crater Lake is the deepest in the US. It was formed by the collapse of the volcano Mount Mazama, and as such has no rivers flowing in or out of it - its water level is maintained by rainfall.

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Iconic Great Lakes

The 30-million-year-old Lake Baikal in Russia is the freshwater lake with the largest volume in the world, containing about 20 per cent of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fresh water.

Winter freezes allow the lake to be used by runners, cars and even heavy goods vehicles.

Five Flower Lake in Chinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jiuzhaigou Valley is one of the most otherworldly locations on the planet. The bright colours of the fivemetre-deep body of water come from mineral deposits that line the bottom of the lake, and algae from the fallen tree trunks within.

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Formed during violent volcanic eruptions some 500,000 years ago, Taal Lake, on the island of Luzon in the Philippines is the country’s third largest and one of the most beautiful. The land you can see in the middle of the lake is Volcano Island, which also has its own lake known as Yellow Lake. And like a Russian Doll, Yellow Lake even has a small island at its centre, called Vulcan Point.

It’s George Clooney’s favourite spot in the world for a reason - Italy’s alpine Lake Como is a tranquil slice of Italian glamour that has been a fixture on the upper-echelons’ holiday hotspots for centuries. Seen from above, Lake Como resembles a giant and distinctive letter Y.

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Malta

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ruce Willis ruins all films,” I say to my partner as we get ready to see the glimmering emerald sea in the beautiful Maltese island of Gozo. We’re not debating the acting merits of the hunky Hollywood superstar, but rather making vital checks for our final diving adventure at Xlendi Bay. Before taking the plunge, we need to carry out pre-dive safety checks for buoyancy, weights, releases, air and ‘final okay’ – and that’s where the mnemonic comes in (sorry Bruce!).

It sounds complicated, but it’s actually quite a simple task – even for someone like me, who’s never even had a swim at the beach, let alone descended 18 metres below the water’s surface.

Equipment thoroughly examined, we head off to the bay for the final dive. As we slowly descend, an unseen enchanting world emerges before my eyes.

Thousands of colourful fish of all shapes and sizes gently weave through this captivating underwater garden: amberjack, bream, red mullet and parrot fish are some of the many species that form Gozo’s incredible marine life population.

Hundreds of bream, shimmering in the water with silvery translucent bodies slowly glide past as we gradually move deeper. A spiky sea urchin slightly startles me as it scatters its spores into the ocean; we also sight a sea cucumber, fireworm, cardinals and a bright orange starfish resting on the rocks. Our instructor Richard Salter spots a tiny octopus tucked away beneath the green seaweed – I can hardly believe my eyes.

The entire experience is an amazing technicolour dream come to life – I feel like I’ve swum into the September // 2014

TAKING THE PLUNGE IN

GOZO

There’s no need to fly to far-flung locations to learn how to dive. Nilima Marshall heads off to the Maltese Islands to earn her scuba stripes

This page: Scuba diver explores coral reef

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Malta

exotic, magical world of Finding Nemo.

After touching our deepest point at 18.5 metres and negotiating a rocky tunnel, I realise how breathing through a regulator and moving weightlessly has become second nature in only a few days.

We have enrolled to take part in a PADI dive course with St Andrew’s Divers Cove in Xlendi. The programme aims to provide beginners like me with the basic skills for dives to up 18 metres.

St Andrew’s is a friendly dive centre, and a magnet for divers from around the world. The centre not only has 11 instructors but is just a few steps away from Xlendi Bay, which is perfect for newcomers like us, who are staying at St Patrick’s Hotel nearby.

As a first-time diver, I have my apprehensions.

Thankfully, Richard immediately puts us at ease,

The entire experience is an amazing technicolour dream

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reassuring us that diving is actually one of the safest sports - providing you follow the rulebook, have reliable equipment, and you never dive alone or beyond your experience.

“Diving is fun and amazing, but being complacent about your gear could get you into trouble,” Richard warns us. With more than 6,000 logged dives, he knows a thing or two about what could go wrong.

“Diving is not a contest,” he tells us in one of our training sessions. “The slower you move, the better diver you are.”

During training Richard takes us through the basic theory and science of scuba diving. We learn about the effects underwater pressure has on the lungs and why it’s important never to ascend or descend too quickly.

The trick is not to panic, which is easier said than done – especially when we are removing our regulators and masks underwater, simulating real-life scenarios, such as running out of air or losing our masks. The experience feels strange at first, but once we start trusting the equipment, we are hooked. I can’t wait to get my PADI Open Water Diver scuba certification.

Seeing the world underwater is a dream for many people, and I consider myself fortunate I did not have to travel very far. Home to more than 60 dive sites, Malta and Gozo have been awarded the second best diving destination in the world by Diver magazine last year (Egypt came first), because of their range of exciting wrecks and diversity of marine life. While Gozo has one of the most incredible underwater environments, there’s lots to do on this tiny island if you want to stay on land.

Xlendi itself is a popular tourist destination, brimming with restaurants offering local fish and Mediterranean cuisine – and the secluded bay is the ideal place to unwind and catch the sunset.

Gelateria Granola in Xlendi, I am told, is one of the best ice cream shops in Europe and the tiramisu flavour I order is absolutely delicious. Further afield is the Azure Window (or Tieqa Zerqa in Maltese) – a limestone arch near Dwejra Bay, popular with scuba divers as well as visitors. The site has featured in many films and television series, including Game Of Thrones.

September // 2014

WHERE TO STAY ··· A short 15-minute drive from the Gozo Ferry Terminal you’ ll find the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz. Surrounded by 30,000sqm of garden, it is the only eco-certified hotel on Gozo, boasting 73 rooms and 49 suites. Over in Malta, check in to The Palace, an urban hotel designed with the stylish traveller in mind.

Meanwhile, in buzzy St Julian’s, the Westin Dragonara Resort has an excellent pool area and its own private beach. For information visit dnatatravel.com or call +971 4 316 6666.

Clockwise from top left: Valetta, Malta Island; Valetta Harbous; Leather starfish and urchins; Azure Window, Dweja Ba; Old doorway in Valetta.

Mgarr Ix-Xini, a breathtaking, peaceful strip of blue water between two cliffs is also worth a visit. At the entrance to the bay are the crumbled remains of a coastal tower built by the Knights of St. John in 1658.

Malta itself is only a short ferry ride away, and we dock at Cirkewwa Harbour for a day of sightseeing.

We drive through the island, past the busy beaches and cacti-strewn landscape to the capital Valletta – which was awarded World Heritage Site status

by UNESCO in 1980. The Grand Harbour is resplendent with history and character – from Fort Ricasoli, built by the Knights of Malta in 1693, to the beautifully restored 16th century warehouses and the leafy Upper Barrakka Gardens. Fort Ricasoli is occasionally used for filming – Russell Crowe is said to have wielded his sword while filming Gladiator within these fortified walls.

Malta is blessed with natural harbours and has long been a hub of commerce, but its strategic location means the country has been invaded by numerous rampaging forces.

“Malta, Gozo and Comino were invaded many, many times – and fought over by the Phoenicians, Romans, French and British,” our guide Nicolette Camilleri tells us. As a result, huge fortifications, including Fort St Elmo, had to be built around Valletta to deter the Turks from further invasion.

Centuries later, British-ruled Malta was a target of more than 15,000 tonnes of bombs in WWII – becoming the most bombed location during the war.

Malta was awarded the George Cross in 1942 as official recognition of the country’s bravery.

We hop on to a traditional Maltese water taxi, known as ‘dghajsa’, for a leisurely ride through the harbour to the Vittoriosa Waterfront. Here, al fresco dining spots overlook the marina and private luxury yachts. (Chelsea football tycoon Roman Abramovich is said to have one docked here).

Among other attractions is the majestic St John’s Co-Cathedral, hosting a treasure trove of priceless paintings. Built for the Knights of St. John in the

The Grand Harbour is resplendent with history and character 16th century, the building boasts spectacular ornate interiors with roof panels depicting scenes from John the Baptist’s life.

The island still retains a colonial feel and plenty of British references with old-fashioned red telephone and pillar boxes.

The ‘Silent City’ of M’dina, with its narrow cobbled streets and mix of medieval and baroque architecture, makes it one of the most enchanting places on the island.

We conclude our tour by heading off to Rabat countryside for a quiet lunch at Rogantino’s, the perfect place to get away from the crowded seaside.

As we relax in the restaurant gardens, admiring the overlooking lush vineyards, I begin to understand why the Maltese islands draw so many visitors from across the UK. Malta and Gozo may be diminutive islands, but they’re priceless little gems floating in the Mediterranean, captivating us with a wealth of amazing, exotic attractions – on land and underwater.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;The ideal choice for bussiness, leisure & s h o p p ing in Dubaiâ&#x20AC;?

Stay at Golden Tulip Al Barsha Hotel, Dubai, U.A.E. Golden Tulip Al Barsha Hotel is a deluxe hotel suitable for the comfortable stay of all types of travelers to central Dubai.

P.O BOX 125962, DUBAI- U.A.E. - Sharaf DG Metro Station Tel. No: +971 4 341 7750 | Fax No: +971 4 341 7751 info@goldentulipalbarsha.com | www.goldentulipalbarsha.com

Weekends Everything you need to know about short-haul escapes

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Muscat’s glorious Royal Opera House

48 hours in Paphos, Cyprus’s hidden gem

/ i ÃÌ >} wVi Ì penthouse in London

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Weekends

SIX of the BEST

YOGA RETREATS Get lean, clean and serene at these luxury wellness resorts

1. Madinat Jumeirah, UAE

You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to go all the way to India to get your om on. Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s acclaimed Talise Spa at Madinat Jumeirah resort has hatha and vinyasa yoga classes that will leave you bendy and blissed-out. Classes are held in the studio or on the beach, with daily sunset yoga from 6:30pm at Al Qasr. Yoga instructor Vijay Sharma also leads monthly full moon sessions on the sand, as the lunar phase has a powerful effect on energy levels. The next one takes place on September 9. And celebrated Buddhist yogi Winnie Rode is in town this month, leading soothing singing bowl sound therapy sessions. jumeirah.com

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2. Ananda, India

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas near Rishikesh, the birthplace of yoga, this former Maharaja’s palace has welcomed A-list yoga enthusiasts including Oprah and Heidi Klum. Despite its starry clientele, the atmosphere Ài > Ã «i>VivÕ > ` ÀiyiVÌ Ûi] with group hatha yoga classes held twice daily at the open-air amphitheatre, as well as oneon-one sessions incorporating any yogic style you fancy and a roster of visiting masters hosting holistic workshops.

There are 70 tastefully luxurious rooms, a sprawling spa with over 80 Ayurvedic, Oriental and Western treatments, and healthy cuisine that’s customised to your Ayurvedic body type. anandaspa.com

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3. The Oberoi Udaivilas, India

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Located about halfway between Mumbai and New Delhi on the banks of Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan, this palatial palace-style resort has an extensive yoga menu covering a range of styles. Choose from a group class, daily from 3pm, or a private session with the resident yogacharya (teacher).

Or make the most of the current rainy season and sign up for Monsoon Yoga (according to ` > ÞÌ }Þ] À> à } wiÃ Ì i «ÕÀ wV>Ì v Ì i Õ ÛiÀÃi] making the monsoon season an ideal time to detox). The three-day program combines yoga practice with ayurvedic treatments from the celebrated spa. oberoihotels.com

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Weekends

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4. Ashiyana Yoga and Spa Village, India

For those seeking serious serenity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and more home comforts than an authentic ashram â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this beachside retreat in northern Goa is just the ticket. Experienced instructors lead sessions in a variety of yoga styles, including iyengar, dynamic and sivananda, as well as meditation, chanting and even barefoot boogie (improvised dance). Or opt for a longer seven, 14 or 21-day retreat that combines yoga, holistic therapies and deep relaxation with a cleansing, mainly vegetarian, diet. Stay in a beach hut, tree house, or suite, all within metres of the unspoilt Mandrem Beach, and visit the tranquil spa and hammam. ashiyana-yoga-goa.com

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5. Raffles Praslin, Seychelles

A 15-minute plane ride from the main island of Mahé brings you to Praslin Island and this peaceful resort with 86 villas, all with private plunge pool and butler. There’s sunrise or sunset yoga on the beach, and daily group classes in the outdoor pavilion, with the resident instructor. Or try your ÃÕ Ã> ÕÌ>Ì Ã Ü i y >Ì } Ì i ` > Ocean during a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) yoga session. The challenge of balancing and adapting to the motion of the board increases the intensity of the workout and helps you improve your core strength, yiÝ L ÌÞ > ` L> > Vi° À>vyiðV

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6. Bodhi Khaya Retreat, Gansbaai, South Africa

This peaceful haven will let you meditate in the wilderness, improve all aspects of your physical and mental wellbeing and take courses such as the Five Steps to Golden Success. There’s even a whale communication seminar, allowing you to chat with the denizens of the Atlantic Ocean. But of course, the main draw at this stunning restored 1820s farmhouse is the yoga, often performed overlooking the ocean. Over November, Brigitta Tummon hosts the YogaPoise retreat that includes asana practice, pranayama and restorative sessions. bodhi-khaya.co.za

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WEEKENDS

HOTEL IN

NUMBERS

29,000

Dubai’s distinctive sail-shaped Burj Al Arab has been wowing guests for nearly 15 years. Let’s crunch some numbers…

The number of Swarovski crystals on the ceiling of Junsui restaurant

321

10

ZEITGEIST This month everyone is...

Eating… the special degustation menu at El Sur’s Gastronomical Mondays.

This month, the Catalonian restaurant has created three dishes in tribute to the Michelin-starred El Celler De Can Roca, including coated foie gras. All for Dhs245. elsurdubai.com

The amount, in tonnes, of chocolate used by the nine restaurants each year

1,080

The number of steps you’d need to climb to reach the ÓÇÌ y À

4

The height, in metres, of the hotel that stands some 280 metres offshore

The number of swimming pools (two indoor and two outdoor)

Chilling… at the new indoor lounge at Iris at the Oberoi in Business Bay. The extension of the hip rooftop bar means you don’t have to wait until winter to indulge in Iris’ signature cocktails and Med-inspired food. irisdubai.com Playing… at Dubai’s newest indoor trampoline park, Jump Boxx in Uptown Mirdiff. Hot on the heels of Bounce in Al Quoz, this 22,000sqft playground features interconnected trampolines, dodge-ball courts, slam-dunk hoops and a kids’ zone. jump-boxx.com

MIDDLE EAST

MUST DO Royal Opera House Muscat

Inaugurated in 2011, Oman’s opera house hosts musical performances from Middle Eastern artists, as well as operas, ballets and concerts from around the world.

Built by the same architects as the Grand Mosque, the understated marble exterior belies the beautiful interior of crystal chandeliers, hand-carved wooden doors and intricate Arabesque designs. The 2014/2015 season opens on September 18, with operatic productions including Verdi’s Macbeth and the much-loved

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musical, My Fair Lady; four international ballets including The Nutcracker and The Taming of the Shrew; as well as popular outdoor concerts by the Sultanate’s military bands. Though the blockbuster shows are sold out months in advance, you can sometimes buy daily tickets for performances or even take a guided tour of the building. You’ll need to dress up too, as there’s a strict formal dress code (suits or dinner jackets for men and modest dress for women). rohm.org.om

WEEKENDS

48 HOURS IN...

Head to the Med to soak up history and sunshine in Cyprus’s stunning harbour town

PAPHOS FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Ū /QTPKPI Located in the far southwest of the island, Paphos is divided into inland Ktima (upper) Paphos and waterside Kato (lower) Paphos, the tourist hub.

Inhabited since the Neolithic period and steeped in ancient mythology, the entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start your day in Kato Paphos with a stroll along the harbour to the 13th-century medieval fort, which hosts the annual Aphrodite Festival of opera, held this year from September 5-7.

Ū /QTPKPI Feeling active?

A 30-minute walk or (10-minute drive) from Kato Paphos harbour leads to the impressive underground Tombs of the Kings. Carved out of rock and dating back to the 4th century BC, the tombs ÃiÀÛi` >Ã > w > ÀiÃÌ } « >Vi for local nobility (not royalty as the name suggests).

Ū #HVGTPQQP Stop for lunch at Theo’s Seafood Restaurant, a popular family-run spot overlooking the harbour that’s renowned for its fresh wà ° / i Ì½Ã Ì i Ì Ì the Paphos Archaeological *>À ] Ü V ÕÃiÃ Ì i w iÃÌ Roman mosaics in the eastern Mediterranean, mostly depicting scenes from Greek mythology, and the crumbling ruins of Saranda Kolones Byzantine Castle. Ū 'XGPKPI A 30-minute drive westwards will bring you to Petra Tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock), the fabled birthplace of the Greek goddess of love, just in time for sunset.

Swimming anti-clockwise around the rock three times is purported to bring you eternal love. If you’d rather stay dry, dine at Leander at the InterContinental Aphrodite Hills Resort.

Ū #HVGTPQQP: With 27 beaches in the district, including 12 Blue Flag beaches, you can’t go home without a dip in the Med. Try Alykes or Vrysoudia, both sandy beaches located near the hotels of Kato Paphos off Poseidonos Avenue. Or take the coast road north for about 20kms to Coral Bay, > >À}i Ã> `Þ Li>V y> i` by steep limestone cliffs with safe swimming and Blue Flag status. Take your pick of restaurants on the beach and enjoy watersports and parasailing. Ū 'XGPKPI: Leave the tourists behind and head to local favourite, Ta Perix, in the old Turkish quarter of Moutallos in Ktima Paphos for dinner.

Regarded as the best mezze in town, you simply tick off your selection of small plates on the order sheet. Seasonal wild asparagus is a real treat, as are the courgette balls, quail eggs and grilled quail.

Then head to Timothy’s Art Bar, which hosts eclectic live music performances most nights from about 10.30pm.

9JGTG VQ UVC[

+PVGT%QPVKPGPVCN #RJTQFKVG *KNNU 4GUQTV (ihg.com) Set on the cliffs overlooking Aphrodite’s Rock, this 600acre resort boasts an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, splendid spa, 12 restaurants ­ V Õ` } i> `iÀ v À w i dining), a fantastic kids’ club and private pool suites.

World Traveller

6JG 'N[UKWO (elysium-hotel.com) Adjacent to the Tombs of the Kings, this palatial beachfront hotel features 250 rooms and suites, landscaped gardens with multi-level pools, six restaurants, spa, kids’ club and an amphitheatre overlooking the sea.

#UM C EQPEKGTIG

#PKMQ 2GVTGEU, from InterContinental Aphrodite Hills Resort, on the best souvenir shopping…

For VTCFKVKQPCN NCEG QT UKNXGT, visit .GHMCTC, a 45-minute drive from our hotel along the Limassol-Nicosia highway.

hotel towards the Troodos mountain range.

The ƂPGUV %[RTKQV YKPGU can be found in the mountain village of 1OQFJQU, also a 45-minute drive from the

For local RQVVGT[ CPF EGTCOKEU, buy direct from the producers in the villages of -QNQPK and ;GTQUMKRQW.

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World Traveller Promotion

THREE-IN-ONE Nestled in the rugged Omani mountains, the Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa offers a holiday escape for all

Boredom won’t be an option at the ShangriLa’s Barr Al Jissah resort in Muscat. Made up of three distinct hotels with nearly two dozen restaurants and bars between them, this is the largest resort in Shangri-La’s portfolio. Better still, it’s reachable from Dubai within 45 minutes. Now, how quick can you pack a suitcase?

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Al Waha - The Oasis

There are plenty of nooks and crannies for inquisitive minds to explore at the resort’s family-friendly hotel, Al Waha. It has several swimming pools that, when combined with the many date trees on the site, recreate a beautiful oasis. Why not take a family trip down the Lazy River, which winds between the Al Waha and Al Bandar hotels and back again? If this is too slow paced for you, check out some of the great activities for kids like treasure hunts, henna painting or September // 2014

sandcastle competitions. Go now, in case the hotel reaches capacity.

Al Bandar – The Town

Ideal for business travellers (the MICE facilities are outstanding, with 11 meeting rooms, as well as a spectacular ballroom) and families with older children, this is no run-of-the-mill hotel. There’s 198 sea-facing guestrooms on offer at Al Bandar, and seven of the resort’s restaurants and bars can be found here. Once you’ve dropped your bags in your deluxe room, take a walk around the Omani Heritage Village, home to a number of traditional shops and activities.

Epicureans, meanwhile, should let their taste buds travel from Italy (at Capri Court) to Lebanon (Fairouz), and back to Oman (Bait Al Bahr is the ideal place for traditional Omani seafood), before resting their head ready for another day of exploration.

Al Husn – The Castle

The palatial Al Husn is the resort’s premium luxury hotel. With an adults-only policy, the 180 rooms and suites at this plush palace will transport you to another place altogether. From the deluxe rooms up to the Royal Suite (inspired by a 17th-century Omani castle), every detail contributes.

Nothing is accidental. Everything matters.

From the 100-metre private beach to the w ÌÞ « > ` Ó{ ÕÀ }Þ >Ã Õ ] holidaying here is time well spent. While there are no children's facilities in Al Husn, children can enjoy facilities such as the Lazy River, children's pool, play room and water aquatic play area in Al Bandar and Al Waha hotels. It’s time to kick off your shoes and à « Ì Ã i y « y «Ã° For more information about the hotel and its summer offers, including Eid al-Adha, visit shangri-la.com/muscat/barraljissahresort.

RESTAUR ANT SNAPSHOT

Plan your day around dining at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and its restaurants…

MORNING: Zafran Café – Gourmet coffee, tea and pastries.

Al Tanoor – Delicious Arabian cuisine Sultanah – Imaginative cruiseliner dining Mahhara – A morning beach treat

NOON: Surf Café – Fashionably casual dining Samba – Asian, Latin American and Mediterranean fare Assira – Healthy salads and snacks Circles q 7 ` wÀi` « ââ> > ` cocktails Al Muheet – Opulent poolside glamour

NIGHT: The Long Bar – Trendy, central and stylish Al Waha/Al Bandar/Al Husn Lobby Lounge – Convenient nightcap stations Piano Lounge – Chic evenings overlooking the Gulf of Oman Capri Court – Contemporary Italian glamour Asia – Modern Asian fusion Bait Al Bahr – Stunning fresh seafood Fairouz –Lebanese dining and entertainment Shahrazad – The spices of Morocco Tapas & Sablah – Delicious international tapas

DON’T MISS:

The 24-hour breakfast -No matter what time your airplane lands in Muscat, the resort will provide breakfast on your arrival.

Personal training beyond your stay - As well as state-of-the>ÀÌ wÌ iÃÃ v>V Ì iÃ] ÌÃ «iÀÃ > trainers offer follow-up exercise and dietary advice for guests – free of charge!

Get active - From water polo and kayaking to a jog through the mountains, the resort strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and recreation.

Turtle sanctuary - The resort is i Ì > Õ LiÀ v wÀÃÌÃ v À Oman, including the only turtle sanctuary in the country.

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WEEKENDS

THE

GREAT ESCAPE SHANGRI-LAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S VILLINGILI RESORT & SPA, MALDIVES TRY BEFORE

YOU FLY

Off to Italy? Master of Italian cuisine *>Ă&#x192;V>Â? -v>Ă&#x20AC;>] vĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Â&#x201C; Ć&#x201A;Â&#x201C;>Â?w >Ă&#x152; i ,Â&#x153;Ă&#x17E;>Â?

MĂŠridien Abu Dhabi, suggests you try these tasty treatsâ&#x20AC;Ś

SEAFOOD Roasted octopus & Mazara red prawn salad is served with Mandarin foam >Â&#x2DC;` Ă&#x152;Â&#x153;Â&#x201C;>Ă&#x152;Â&#x153; VÂ&#x153;Â&#x2DC;wĂ&#x152;° /Â&#x2026;i y>Ă&#x203A;Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x192; Â&#x153;v Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i fruits truly bring out the LiĂ&#x192;Ă&#x152; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i Ă&#x192;i>vÂ&#x153;Â&#x153;`° /Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x17E; Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152; >Ă&#x152; Ă&#x2022;Â&#x2DC;}>Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x153; Bistrot, Piazza degli -V>Ă&#x20AC;Â?>Ă&#x152;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;] Â?Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;iÂ&#x2DC;Vi° (lungarnobistrot.it)

PASTA You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t visit Italy without i>Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;} ÂŤ>Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152;>° Ziti pasta is paired with Neapolitan ragĂš of beef, veal & lamb wÂ&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2026;i` Ă&#x153;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026; `Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x192;Â&#x201C;Â&#x153;Â&#x17D;i` Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;VÂ&#x153;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x152;> q Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i Ă&#x192;Â&#x201C;Â&#x153;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x192; Â?i>Ă&#x203A;iĂ&#x192; > Ă&#x192;iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x192;>Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;>Â? Ă&#x152;>Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152;i Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i Â&#x201C;Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;° iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x152; Ă&#x192;>Â&#x201C;ÂŤÂ?i` >Ă&#x152; Â&#x153;Â?Â&#x153;] 6Â&#x2C6;> *>Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;>Â?iÂ&#x153;Â&#x2DC;i Â&#x153;Â&#x201C;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;i] Ć&#x201A;Â&#x201C;>Â?w] Ă&#x152;>Â?Ă&#x17E;° ­iÂ&#x153;Â?Â&#x153;>Â&#x201C;>Â?w°Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;ÂŽ

DESSERT

70

7Â&#x2026;>Ă&#x152; Ă&#x153;i V>Â?Â? Ă&#x20AC;i>Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x203A;i /Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x20AC;>Â&#x201C;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x2022; is a twist on the classic Italian dish of coffee, whipped eggs and Â&#x201C;>Ă&#x192;V>Ă&#x20AC;ÂŤÂ&#x153;Â&#x2DC;i° /Â&#x2026;i Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;}Ă&#x20AC;i`Â&#x2C6;iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x192; are twisted to create this memorable Ă&#x203A;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;° Ă&#x152; V>Â&#x2DC; Li vÂ&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Â&#x2DC;` >Ă&#x152; *Â&#x153;Â&#x201C;ÂŤÂ&#x2C6;] 6Â&#x2C6;> Albalonga, Near metro stop Re Di ,Â&#x153;Â&#x201C;>° (barpompi.it)

September // 2014

What sets this resort apart?

First, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the most luxurious resorts in the whole of the Maldives - and judging from the competition thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no Ă&#x192;Â&#x201C;>Â?Â? vi>Ă&#x152;° -iVÂ&#x153;Â&#x2DC;`Â?Ă&#x17E;] Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;½Ă&#x192; Ă&#x152;Â&#x153;Ă&#x152;>Â?Â?Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x192;iVÂ?Ă&#x2022;`i`° 9Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;½Â?Â? viiÂ? Â?Â&#x2C6;Â&#x17D;i Ă&#x17E;Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;½Ă&#x20AC;i Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC; Ă&#x17E;Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC; Â&#x153;Ă&#x153;Â&#x2DC; `iĂ&#x192;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x152; island, a million miles away from any Ă&#x153;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;iĂ&#x192; Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC; VÂ&#x153;Â&#x2DC;ViĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x192;° /Â&#x2026;i Ă&#x20AC;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x152;>Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;>Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x192; and facilities are of the highest quality, and the staff are all multi-lingual and Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;VĂ&#x20AC;i`Â&#x2C6;LÂ?Ă&#x17E; Â&#x2026;iÂ?ÂŤvĂ&#x2022;Â?° Does it suit a special occasion? /Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192; Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i ÂŤiĂ&#x20AC;viVĂ&#x152; Ă&#x192;ÂŤÂ&#x153;Ă&#x152; Ă&#x152;Â&#x153; ViÂ?iLĂ&#x20AC;>Ă&#x152;i > Ă&#x192;ÂŤiVÂ&#x2C6;>Â? Â&#x153;VV>Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC; Â?Â&#x2C6;Â&#x17D;i > LÂ&#x2C6;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;`>Ă&#x17E; Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC; anniversary - or even pop the question Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x192;iÂ?v° Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;ÂŤÂ?iĂ&#x192; Ă&#x153;Â&#x2C6;Â?Â? Li Ă&#x153;Â&#x153;Ă&#x153;i` LĂ&#x17E; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Â&#x201C;>Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;V Â&#x153;ÂŤĂ&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x192; Â?Â&#x2C6;Â&#x17D;i Ă&#x192;ÂŤ> Ă&#x152;Ă&#x20AC;i>Ă&#x152;Â&#x201C;iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x192;] candlelit dinners to stare into each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eyes, and of course the stunning bedrooms, perfect for lazing with your Â?Â&#x153;Ă&#x203A;i` Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;i° "Ă&#x20AC; Ă&#x153;Â&#x2026;Ă&#x17E; Â&#x2DC;Â&#x153;Ă&#x152; Â&#x2026;Â&#x153;ÂŤ Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC; > Â&#x2026;>Â&#x201C;Â&#x201C;Â&#x153;VÂ&#x17D; and let the sound of the waves transport you to a blissful sleep?

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got young kids - is this resort suitable for them?

-Â&#x2026;>Â&#x2DC;}Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2021; >½Ă&#x192; 6Â&#x2C6;Â?Â?Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;}Â&#x2C6;Â?Â&#x2C6; ,iĂ&#x192;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x152; E -ÂŤ> Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192; >VĂ&#x152;Ă&#x2022;>Â?Â?Ă&#x17E; ÂŤiĂ&#x20AC;viVĂ&#x152; vÂ&#x153;Ă&#x20AC; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;Â&#x153;Ă&#x192;i Ă&#x153;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026; Ă&#x152;Â&#x153;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x192; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;Â&#x153;Ă&#x153;° /Â&#x2026;i Â&#x153;Â&#x153;Â? <Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;i Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i ÂŤiĂ&#x20AC;viVĂ&#x152; ÂŤÂ?>Vi vÂ&#x153;Ă&#x20AC; Â&#x17D;Â&#x2C6;`Ă&#x192; Ă&#x152;Â&#x153; wÂ&#x2DC;` Ă&#x152;Â&#x153;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x192;] i`Ă&#x2022;V>Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;>Â? >VĂ&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x203A;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;iĂ&#x192; >Â&#x2DC;` vĂ&#x2022;Â&#x2DC; >Â&#x2DC;` }>Â&#x201C;iĂ&#x192; Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i Li>VÂ&#x2026;° 9Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Â&#x2DC;}Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x192; ­Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;iÂ&#x2C6;Ă&#x20AC; ÂŤ>Ă&#x20AC;iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x192;ÂŽ V>Â&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;>Â&#x17D;i >Â&#x2DC; Underwater Adventure and learn about the creatures of the sea, or venture into Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i Â?Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2026; Â?Ă&#x2022;Â&#x2DC;}Â?i >Â&#x2DC;` `Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192;VÂ&#x153;Ă&#x203A;iĂ&#x20AC; LĂ&#x20AC;i>Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;Ă&#x152;>Â&#x17D;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;} >Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x201C;>Â?Ă&#x192; Â?Â&#x2C6;Â&#x17D;i Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i yĂ&#x17E;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;} vÂ&#x153;Ă? >Â&#x2DC;` }iVÂ&#x17D;Â&#x153;Ă&#x192;°

Win!

7Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Â?` /Ă&#x20AC;>Ă&#x203A;iÂ?Â?iĂ&#x20AC; Â&#x2026;>Ă&#x192; Ă&#x152;i>Â&#x201C;i` Ă&#x2022;ÂŤ Ă&#x153;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026; -Â&#x2026;>Â&#x2DC;}Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6; >½Ă&#x192; 6Â&#x2C6;Â?Â?Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;}Â&#x2C6;Â?Â&#x2C6; ,iĂ&#x192;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x152; E Spa to offer the fantastic prize of a {Â&#x2021;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;}Â&#x2026;Ă&#x152; Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152;>Ă&#x17E; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC; > iÂ?Ă&#x2022;Ă?i *Â&#x153;Â&#x153;Â? 6Â&#x2C6;Â?Â?> for 2 persons, valid for 6 months >Â&#x2DC;` Ă&#x192;Ă&#x2022;LÂ?iVĂ&#x152; Ă&#x152;Â&#x153; >Ă&#x203A;>Â&#x2C6;Â?>LÂ&#x2C6;Â?Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x17E;° /Â&#x2026;i ÂŤĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;âi V>Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x153;Ă&#x152; Li Ă&#x152;>Â&#x17D;iÂ&#x2DC; vĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Â&#x201C; iV ÂŁÂ&#x2122;] Ă&#x201C;ä£{ Â&#x2021; >Â&#x2DC; £ä] Ă&#x201C;ä£x° /Â&#x153; Li Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC; Ă&#x153;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026; > VÂ&#x2026;>Â&#x2DC;Vi of winning, just answer this question: How many holes are there at Shangri >½Ă&#x192; 6Â&#x2C6;Â?Â?Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;}Â&#x2C6;Â?Â&#x2C6; ,iĂ&#x192;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x152;½Ă&#x192; }Â&#x153;Â?v VÂ&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x192;iÂś A) 9 B) 18 C) 27 Email your answer to easywin@ hotmediapublishing.com before September 31. Terms and conditions apply on the prize.

WEEKENDS

GO WITH THE

FLOW

Want to party? We chart Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best after-dark entertainmentâ&#x20AC;Ś Looking for top-notch dining alongside live entertainment?

Happy to head to The Palm?

After a venue thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s open all week?

Want to be wowed by amazing acrobats?

And dance to world fusion music?

And has a retro vibe?

The Act -iĂ&#x152; Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i {Ă&#x201C;Â&#x2DC;` yÂ&#x153;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC; Â&#x153;v Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i -Â&#x2026;>Â&#x2DC;}Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2021; > Â&#x153;Ă&#x152;iÂ?] Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192; VÂ?Ă&#x2022;L VÂ&#x153;Â&#x201C;LÂ&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;iĂ&#x192; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i>Ă&#x152;Ă&#x20AC;i] Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;}Â&#x2026;Ă&#x152;Â?Â&#x2C6;vi >Â&#x2DC;` Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x203A;iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x203A;i *iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x203A;Â&#x2C6;>Â&#x2DC; VĂ&#x2022;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;i° "Â&#x2DC; Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;`>Ă&#x17E;] /Ă&#x2022;iĂ&#x192;`>Ă&#x17E; >Â&#x2DC;` 7i`Â&#x2DC;iĂ&#x192;`>Ă&#x17E; iĂ&#x203A;iÂ&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;}Ă&#x192; `Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;} -iÂŤĂ&#x152;iÂ&#x201C;LiĂ&#x20AC;] - "7/ t Ă&#x192;iiĂ&#x192; }Ă&#x2022;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x192; Ă&#x152;>Â&#x17D;iÂ&#x2DC; LiÂ&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;`Â&#x2021;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;iÂ&#x2021;Ă&#x192;ViÂ&#x2DC;iĂ&#x192; Â&#x153;v > Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i>Ă&#x152;Ă&#x20AC;i ÂŤĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x153;`Ă&#x2022;VĂ&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC; Ă&#x153;Â&#x2026;iĂ&#x20AC;i Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i ÂźĂ&#x20AC;i>Â?½ V>Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152; VÂ&#x153;Â&#x201C;i Ă&#x152;Â&#x153; Â?Â&#x2C6;vi° theactdubai.com

MusicHall Â&#x201C;ÂŤÂ&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x152;i` vĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Â&#x201C; iL>Â&#x2DC;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;] iĂ&#x203A;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x17E; /Â&#x2026;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x192;`>Ă&#x17E; >Â&#x2DC;` Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;`>Ă&#x17E; Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;}Â&#x2026;Ă&#x152; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192; V>L>Ă&#x20AC;iĂ&#x152;Â&#x2021;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x17E;Â?i VÂ?Ă&#x2022;L >Ă&#x152; Ă&#x2022;Â&#x201C;iÂ&#x2C6;Ă&#x20AC;>Â&#x2026; <>LiiÂ? ->Ă&#x20AC;>Ă&#x17E; vi>Ă&#x152;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;iĂ&#x192; £äÂ&#x2021;Â&#x201C;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x152;iÂ&#x2021;Â?Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;} ÂŤiĂ&#x20AC;vÂ&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x201C;>Â&#x2DC;ViĂ&#x192; vĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Â&#x201C; >Â&#x2DC; iVÂ?iVĂ&#x152;Â&#x2C6;V Â?Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;iÂ&#x2021;Ă&#x2022;ÂŤ Â&#x153;v Â&#x201C;Ă&#x2022;Â?Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;VĂ&#x2022;Â?Ă&#x152;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;>Â? Â?Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x203A;i >VĂ&#x152;Ă&#x192;° Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x203A;i Ă&#x192;iĂ&#x152;Ă&#x192; >Ă&#x20AC;i Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x192;ÂŤiĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x192;i` LĂ&#x17E; Â&#x201C;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;V] Ă&#x153;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026; vĂ&#x2022;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC; VĂ&#x2022;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;i Ă&#x192;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x203A;i` >Ă&#x152; Ă&#x152;>LÂ?iĂ&#x192; >Â&#x2DC;` wÂ&#x2DC;}iĂ&#x20AC; vÂ&#x153;Â&#x153;` Ă&#x192;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x203A;i` >Ă&#x152; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i VÂ&#x153;Ă&#x2022;VÂ&#x2026;iĂ&#x192;° themusichall.com

World Traveller

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SPIN Dubai Open seven days a week in 7>w *Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x20AC;>Â&#x201C;Â&#x2C6;`Ă&#x192;] Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192; iĂ&#x153; 9Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x17D; iĂ?ÂŤÂ&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x152; Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192; Ă&#x2022;L>Â&#x2C6;½Ă&#x192; Â&#x2DC;iĂ&#x153;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x152; Â&#x2DC;Â&#x153;Ă&#x203A;iÂ? Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;}Â&#x2026;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x192;ÂŤÂ&#x153;Ă&#x152;° 9Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022; V>Â&#x2DC; ÂŤÂ?>Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x152;>LÂ?i Ă&#x152;iÂ&#x2DC;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192; Ă&#x153;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Â?i Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;ÂŤÂŤÂ&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;} > VÂ&#x153;VÂ&#x17D;Ă&#x152;>Â&#x2C6;Â? >Â&#x2DC;` Â&#x201C;Ă&#x2022;Â&#x2DC;VÂ&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;} Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC; Â?Â&#x2C6;}Â&#x2026;Ă&#x152; LÂ&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;iĂ&#x192; Â?Â&#x2C6;Â&#x17D;i 7>}Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x2022; Liiv Ă&#x192;Â?Â&#x2C6;`iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x192;° Ă&#x152;½Ă&#x192; >Â?Ă&#x192;Â&#x153; Â&#x2026;Â&#x153;Â&#x201C;i Ă&#x152;Â&#x153; >Â&#x2DC; ÂŁnÂ&#x2021;V>Ă&#x20AC;>Ă&#x152; }Â&#x153;Â?` ÂŤÂ&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;}Â&#x2021;ÂŤÂ&#x153;Â&#x2DC;} Ă&#x152;>LÂ?i >Â&#x2DC;` Ă&#x192;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2026;> Â?Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Â&#x2DC;}i° spindubai.com

September // 2014

71

Advertorial

YAS YOU CAN! There’s a world of family adventure to be found on Yas Island

As the weather in the UAE cools down, it’s time to head outside and take advantage of all the wonderful activities on offer.

Nowhere on earth has more fun family options than Yas Island – from serious thrillseekers to beach bums, Yas Island has an activity for everyone. Why not try one of these on for size?

Mangrove Kayaking

The perfect way to enjoy the biodiversity and the bird and marine populations of the mangroves surrounding Yas Island is an eco-friendly kayaking tour. Usually run either in the morning or late afternoon, a kayak tour is ideal for families that love to explore together.

Thrill Rating 3/5 72

Yas Marina Circuit Driving Experience

Even though the Formula 1® season doesn’t reach Abu Dhabi until November, budding Lewis Hamiltons can test their skills on the very same track as their heroes. The Yas Marina Driving Experience is the best place to get behind the wheel of some seriously quick cars like the stunning Aston Martin GT4.

Thrill Rating 5/5 September // 2014

Captain Tony’s Cruise

Get up close and personal with Yas Island on one of Captain Tony’s cruises. Tony is Ì i wÀÃÌ iV V ÃV ÕÃ L >Ì Ì ÕÀ «iÀ>Ì À in Abu Dhabi, and takes real pride in the capital’s stunning coastline and all the wonder found beneath the waves. A relaxing sunset cruise through the mangrove channels is a magical experience for parents.

Thrill Rating 3/5

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

The world’s largest indoor theme park cannot be missed, and boasts a great mix of adrenaline-pumping rides and family friendly entertainment. Think you’ve got what it takes to tame the Formula Rossa – the fastest rollercoaster on the planet?

If not, maybe a cruise in a miniature 1958 Ferrari 250 California is more your speed.

Thrill Rating 5/5

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi For more information visit yasisland.ae

Spanning a whopping area the size of 15 football pitches, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi is the ultimate destination for fans of waterslides. It has 45 fantastic rides, slides and attractions including the world’s longest waterslide – the epic 238-metre-long Dawwama. Families can also have fun in the sun participating in the park's treasure hunt.

Thrill Rating 4/5

Seawings Flight

Jet straight out of Yas Marina on a beautiful Seawings seaplane, leaving the stunning architecture of Yas Island below. Get a bird’s eye view of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Marina Circuit as you soar above the water, and take your pick from one of three different sightseeing experiences – even zipping as far as Dubai and back for a thrilling splash down.

Thrill Rating 4/5

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Yas Beach

Need to kick back and unwind after all that adventure? Yas Beach has you covered.

Yas Island’s only beach is an oasis of sun, sea and sand – but that’s not to say you can’t alternate topping up your tan with great water activities like paddleboarding, Ü `ÃÕÀw } À Û iÞL> ° / i vÕ iÛiÀ ends at Yas Island!

Thrill Rating 2/5 World Traveller

September // 2014

Weekends brought to you by

Abu Dhabi

World Traveller Weekend Offers

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74

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September // 2014

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

Muscat

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Jordan

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75

CALL: 8004770 800701 Dubai & Northern Emirates Abu Dhabi & Al Ain

ww w. t h rif t yu a e. c o m

World Traveller

September // 2014

WEEKENDS

SUITE DREAMS

Book your stay at London’s most perfect penthouse What:

Royal Penthouse Where

Corinthia Hotel, London About

Corinthia Hotel’s Royal Penthouse is a reminder that when it comes to ultra-luxe lodgings, London still rules the waves. The list of attributes puts Buckingham Palace to shame: four bedrooms, a 10-seat dining room, private spa suite and hidden den aren’t even half of the secrets this lavish, oak-and-mirror designed mini-kingdom has to offer. With its private roof terrace offering a glorious 180-degree view of London, any visitor could be forgiven for daydreaming that, just for now, the whole world is looking up to them. corinthia.com

76

September // 2014

Welcome to The Residence by Etihad Check in to the most exclusive address in the sky: the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first three-room private cabin on-board our new A380, designed for up to two guests. Relax in the living room of The Residence, on plush Poltrona Frau leather sofa and enjoy the latest entertainment on a flat-screen TV. Ask your personal Butler to set up your dining table and enjoy the gourmet meal prepared for you by an inflight Chef.

Only one airline could have created this remarkable travel experience.

Introducing the A380 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Reimagined by Etihad

Flying Abu Dhabi to London, starting December 2014. etihad.com/theresidence

we love

THE M ALDIV ES 2014/15

World Traveller // We Love The Maldives

2014 / 2015

Welcome to

THE MALDIVES Paradise, spiritual nirvana, heaven on earth: these descriptions usually come to mind when one imagines the pristine white sands and brilliant turquoise waters of the Maldives.

As one of the world’s premier luxury holiday destinations, the archipelago is home to dozens of resorts and hotels, which all have unique features - use our guide to i « Þ Õ w ` Ì i «iÀviVÌ }iÌ>Ü>Þ for you and your family.

CONTENTS

4 Essentials Make planning your stay as easy as possible with this handy guide

7 Where to stay Whatever you’re searching for, these in-depth reviews will help you choose a hotel or resort

About This Guide Our writers have explored every inch of the Maldives and selected our choice picks so you can share our enjoyment of this stunning destination.

3

Managing Director

Business Development

Editor

Features Editor

Designer & Illustrator

To contact any of the

Victoria Thatcher

Director

Tracey Scott

Lara Brunt

Andy Knappett

team, email firstname@

Deputy Editor

Senior Designer

Production Manager

Richard Jenkins

Adam Sneade

Chalitha Fernando

Editorial Director

John Thatcher

Jason Brown

hotmediapublishing.com

Production in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media Publishing is strictly prohibited. HOT Media Publishing does not accept liability for omissions or errors in this publication. Produced by HOT Media Publishing FZ LLC

2014 / 2015

The

ESSENTIALS All you need to know

Getting there The gateway to the Maldives is Malé International Airport. Almost every airline travels there from the GCC, although not directly. For those that want the one-stop experience, operators such as Emirates, Fly Dubai and Qatar Airways are the best bet v À ÃÌ « y } Ìð / L ] V Ì>VÌ dnata (+971 316 6666, dnatatravel. com)

MONEY MATTERS

4

The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but most prices at the resorts are also offered in US Dollars. Check with your hotel (and keep an eye on conversion rates) to determine which currency is best when settling up.

Introduction

Getting around Your resort is just one part of your adventure. Once you’re in the Maldives, you’re going to want to explore the islands. A boat or seaplane is the best method of inter-island transport, not least to reach your resort from Malé airport to begin with. Initial transfers are ÕÃÕ> Þ Ì> i V>Ài v LÞ Þ ÕÀ Àià À̽à V V iÀ}i] LÕÌ > i ÃÕÀi Ì >à °

Visas As long as you have a standard valid passport, there is no need to apply for a visa in advance. The i>ÃÞ Ì V « iÌi «>«iÀÜ À V> be completed on arrival. The usual tourist visa allows stays of up to 30 days, as long as you comply with entry restrictions. Visit immigration. gov.mv for further information.

Weather There’s a reason the Maldives are Ü >Ã «>À>` Ãi q Ì i Üi>Ì iÀ is practically perfect. The hottest months of the year are April and May, where the mercury reaches an average of 31°C. The rest of the year sees temperatures between 23-29°C, and November, December and January are comparatively the coolest months. Rainfall between April and October comes in spectacularly short bursts, and from November to April, diving conditions are perfect.

Language / i vwV > > }Õ>}i v Ì i > ` Ûià is Dhivehi, but most staff and à > `iÀÃ Þ Õ iiÌ Ü Li yÕi Ì English. Most signs and documents are usually bilingual.

World Traveller // We Love The Maldives

2014 / 2015

The

MAGICAL MALDIVES It’s heaven on earth, so don’t miss out on these only-in-the-Maldives experiences

STAR SIGNS

Total Tourist

Johnny Come Lately

Island Apprentice

Local Legend

Maldivian Master

Get close to nature The Maldives is one of the world’s w iÃÌ ` Û } ë ÌÃ] ÌÃ Õ Ã« i` ecology a hotbed for stunning underwater wildlife. Turtles, manta rays and even the world’s biggest à >À ] Ì i ­V « iÌi Þ Ûi}iÌ>À > ® Ü > i à >À ] vÀiµÕi Ì Ì i Ü>ÌiÀð

Learn the lingo ÀÕà ի Þ ÕÀ > }Õ>}i à à and impress the locals by learning the native language, Dhivehi.

Here’s a cheat sheet: “Assalaamu > > Õ » i> à º i »] º >> Õ i ¶» i> à º Ü >Ài Þ Õ¶» > ` ºƂ >Ài }i > > iio» i> à º Þ > i Ão»

Find the perfect memento ÛiÀ à Vi Ì i wÀÃÌ Û Ã Ì Àà ` ÃV ÛiÀi` the Maldives, local crafts have proven extremely popular. Two of the most popular handmade souvenirs are miniature dhoni sailboats carved from timber; and decorative vases, iÜi iÀÞ L Ýià > ` ÌV i ÕÌi à à made of shaped wood and covered LÀ } Ì >VµÕiÀ°

instrument of the Maldivians is the bulbul, a jaunty-sounding horizontal accordion.

Make your move Maldivian heritage draws on many different cultures, none more so than its traditional dance and music scene.

The bouncy Bandiyaa-Jehun is an Indian-style dance performed with drums and harmonicas.

Upgrade your culinary skills Great food comes from great ingredients, and the Maldives’ >LÕ `> Vi v vÀià wà ] V V ÕÌà and spices can only mean good Ì }à v À > ÞL `Þ Ü Ì> ià > V } V >ÃÃ Ì i à > `°

Hang ten 7 Ì ÛiÀ £]Óää à > `à > } up the Maldives, it’s no surprise that more than a few of them have v> Ì>ÃÌ V ÃÕÀw } Ü>Ûið / i Ãi>à of surf runs from May to December, and your hotel will be able to guide you to the biggest waves.

5

Soak up the culture Many Maldivians feel cultural >vw ÌÞ Ì ÀÌ iÀ ` > `Õi Ì their languages being closely related. Many Maldivian dances and songs have some northern Indian yÕi Vi° / i ÃÌ « «Õ >À ÕÃ V>

Get away from it all For a special occasion, there are still plenty of Maldivian islands as yet Õ VVÕ« i` q LÕÌ ÃÌ V « iÌi Þ beautiful. Dinners can be arranged on these idyllic isolated islands that you will never forget.

World Traveller // We Love The Maldives

2014 / 2015

Vivanta by Taj

Sometimes it’s good to get away from it all – and in the Maldives, there’s no place better than this perfectly formed resort. Made up of a mixture of Villas and suites, the beach-chic exteriors give way to stunningly luxurious interiors that will take your breath away. Each Vivanta resort has its own set of “motifs” to make your stay truly memorable, and the Maldivian effort is no different.

A must-try is the romantic escapade to a blue lagoon, where guests are whisked away in a speedboat for a romantic getaway on a private sandbank. After a serious sunbathing session, it’s time to pop open the bubbly and enjoy a candlelit fourcourse meal. What could be more relaxing than that? tajhotels.com

Insider Tip:

Divers’ delight can be found at Vivanta - its dive site has its very own reef and even a shipwreck to explore.

7

Hotels

2014 / 2015

Viceroy Maldives

The hotels in the Viceroy collection are known for being bold, and their stunning Maldivian residence is no different. Located in the Shaviyani Atoll, a 50-minute seaplane ride from the capital island of Malé, this resort is a true haven for the discerning adventurer – and celebrities aren’t shy about paying a visit either, with Hollywood A-listers Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds seeing in the New Year here. Viceroy’s expertise in operating stunning hotels comes to the fore in the Maldives, with no detail unanswered by the welcoming staff. Three gorgeous dining venues round out this secluded paradise, offering beachside cuisine to world-class European y> À° viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/ Maldives

Insider Tip:

Many of the spa treatments on offer are unlike those found anywhere else.

The 85-minute Abhyanga massage is guaranteed to rejuvenate.

8

Resorts

World Traveller // We Love The Maldives

2014 / 2015

One&Only Reethi Rah

This all-villa resort in the North MalĂŠ Atoll is the last word in private luxury, and each villa boasts generous exterior spaces ranging from beach verandas to private pools and over-water decks. Let the dedicated concierge take care of the day-today organisation of your holiday, while the thoughtful Villa Valet will be permanently on-hand to attend to your every whim. The One&Only Spa was declared the Global Winner in the Best Luxury Wellness Spa category at the 2013 World Luxury Spa Awards â&#x20AC;&#x201C; another reason to stop by. reethirah.oneandonlyresorts.com

Insider Tip:

Big family? No problem. The signature KidsOnly programmes will delight and entertain youngsters for weeks on end.

9

2014 / 2015

W Maldives

Work hard, play hard is the approach adopted by W Maldives. By day, V vv Þ ÕÀ y « y «Ã > ` Ài >Ý >Ì one of the resort’s 78 retreats, or refuel your cool at its sumptuous spa.

When the sun sets, up the tempo and head to the sizzling pool party or the Maldives’ only underground nightclub, 15Below. Guests looking for their own Robinson Crusoe experience can steal away to W’s private island, Gaathafushi, for the day or for an overnight adventure.

Fitness devotees, meanwhile, can work out overlooking the Indian Ocean, then dip below the surface at the Down Under dive centre where you can explore the resort’s house reef and Fesdu shipwreck. And for everyone else, well, kick back and relax. wretreatmaldives.com

Insider Tip: Couples looking to tie the knot in unforgettable fashion should consider the resort’s Deep Love Package, an underwater Üi`` } v Üi` LÞ > wÛi V ÕÀÃi dinner on board a luxury yacht.

10

Resorts

World Traveller // We Love The Maldives

2014 / 2015

Constance Halaveli Maldives / à wÛi ÃÌ>À Àià ÀÌ Ã > ÌÀÕi Ì v À families. Let the kids run wild at the complimentary “Constance Kids Club” while you relax in the peacful seclusion of the stunning beach and water villa accommodation.

It’s a cinch to get to, too - just 25 minutes by seaplane or a 75-minute boat ride, if you’re happy to take the scenic route. The resort has also recently update its spa, and now the stunning U Spa offers guests totally customisable treatments. The result of years of research, U Spa is a real feather in the cap for the Constance group. constancehotels.com

Insider Tip: Diving at the North Ari Atoll is world-renowned, and Halaveli has its own dive centre there. A must for any level of diving experience.

11

2014 / 2015

Cheval Blanc Randheli

Cheval Blanc Randheli is the latest offering from LVMH’s hotel division (part of the group that owns over 60 of the world’s most prestigious brands). Nestled in Noonu Atoll in the northwest of the archipelago, this 45-villa resort is as jaw-dropping as you’d expect. The four-bedroom Owner’s Villa is located on its own island, offering the ultimate in blissful privacy, while the island, water and garden villas all have a private £Ó°x iÌÀi } w ÌÞ « ] à >À } thatched ceilings, warm taupe décor and a personal butler to arrange scuba diving lessons, dolphin watching cruises, indulgent spa treatments and dinner at one of the Constance Moofushi Àià À̽à wÛi ÀiÃÌ>ÕÀ> Ìà V Õ` } i Maldives £ {Ç] Ìà à } >ÌÕÀi Ài V w i ` } It shows how serious the Constance spot. randheli.chevalblanc.com group is about The Maldives that they have not one but two worldV >ÃÃ] wÛi ÃÌ>À Àià ÀÌà iÀi° 7 i Insider Tip: Travelling with the Halaveli resort makes great use a group? La Table de Partage of its facilities to entertain families hosts private dinner parties for and groups, Moofushi is all about 12-16 people with bespoke menus some serious me-time. Set on its of sharing dishes and wine and own secluded island, the resort champagne served in magnumcombines barefoot beach chic with sized bottles to add to the convivial all the elegance you’d expect in a atmosphere. deluxe hotel on the mainland. The

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Resorts

cosy feel of the resort is summed up by the two gourmet restaurants on site, Manta and Alizée. The former takes you on a culinary adventure with an international menu, and the latter is all about freshness - curl your toes into the sand as the most tender wà > ` Ûi}iÌ>L ià >Ài ÃiÀÛi` Ì your beachside table. Moofushi has also had its spa revamped and offers the revolutionary U Spa. Totally bespoke and tailored to each guest, the treatments and massages on offer can help clear skin, improve circulation and even soothe a jangled nervous system. Each treatment uses a variety of different targeted body oils for maximum relaxation and rejuvenation.

Insider Tip: This trip won’t be all about kicking back - there are lots of free activities to try like Ü `ÃÕÀw }] >Þ> }] à À i } and catamaran sailing. For a small fee, you can upgrade your activity schedule to include diving (amateur > ` *Ƃ ®] } Ì wà } > ` iÛi L } }> i wà } ÕÌ Ì i L } L Õi°

2014 / 2015

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

Whether it’s relaxation or adventure you’re looking for, this private island resort in the North Malé Atoll has got you covered. The turquoise lagoon plays host to a variety of thrilling Ü>ÌiÀ ë ÀÌÃ] vÀ Ü `ÃÕÀw } to wakeboarding, plus there are over 40 dive sites nearby offering >} wVi Ì >À i vi° v Þ Õ½Ài seeking seclusion, retreat to one of the Ocean Pool Villas on the i>ÃÌiÀ à `i v Ì i à i > w ÌÞ plunge pool, hammock and outdoor rain shower go hand-in-hand with uninterrupted ocean views and chic décor, making these villas perfect for honeymooners or couples who just want to get away from it all. There are also seven restaurants and lounges, as well as the excellent Shine Spa for Sheraton. sheratonmaldives.com

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Insider Tip: v Þ Õ Ü> Ì > break from the saltwater, the tropical freshwater pool has ample sun loungers and even its own waterfall.

Resorts

World Traveller // We Love The Maldives

2014 / 2015

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2014 / 2015

Special Offer Stay 4 nights and receive 1 night free* Includes: Complimentary half board, included on the free night’s stay; A romantic bed decoration on arrival; A romantic set dinner in Javvu restaurant for two guests; A romantic bath set up on the last day of the stay; One Kandu Boli Ritual 90 minute spa treatment for the couple; A complimentary Villingilli Eco Tour with guide; Up to 2 children below the age of 12 stay & eat for free;

« i Ì>ÀÞ 7 Applicable Accommodation: Ocean View Villa, Water Villa, Tree House Villa, Beach Villa, Two-Bedroom Beach Villa Validity: Now until December 19, 2014. *minimum 4-nights stay; offer not combinable with any other offer; offer subject to availability Bookings call +960 689 7888 or email reservations.slmd@ shangri-la.com Alternatively, please visit your nearest dnata outlet or call +971 4 316 6666.

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Resorts

World Traveller // We Love The Maldives

2014 / 2015

Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa

One thing that not every Maldivian resort can give you is total seclusion and privacy. Many islands in the atoll overlook or even bump up against one another, which is something to bear in mind when booking your peaceful getaway. Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa is one of the most sheltered islands in the Maldives, a world away from the next resort. Accessible by private plane to Gan airport or by commercial services, the luxury experience starts even before you arrive.

Utter relaxation is achieved at the ÃÕ «ÌÕ ÕÃ -«>] > ` Ì i Õ µÕi Þ }> «>Û ÛiÀ } Ì i ` > Ocean is another path to spiritual wellbeing. The watchwords at Shangri-La are privacy and luxury like no other, so for those seeking a true escape there can be no other choice. shangri-la.com

Insider Tip: Villingili has the only 9-hole golf course in the Maldives, so those that love swinging the clubs will be right at home at this resort.

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2014 / 2015

Velassaru Maldives

Mysterious, intriguing and exotic – three words that perfectly capture the spirit of the Maldives, and the spirit of the Velassaru resort.

Located on a private coral island in the South Malé Atoll, the modern, minimalist chic of the villas and lodges instantly let you know that you are in one of the coolest holiday spots in the world. There’s a range of overwater or lagoon-view villas and bungalows, each with their own charm and surprises. During the day, excursions range from seaplane tours to discovering dolphins, and as } Ì v> Ã] Ì i ÌÀi `Þ i >À Ì i beachfront gently pulses with music and personality. velassaru.com

Insider Tip:

The resort comprises of a second, smaller island which can be hired for your exclusive use – ask the V V iÀ}i >L ÕÌ Ì i à > ` ÃV>«i°

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Resorts

World Traveller // We Love The Maldives

2014 / 2015

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

v À ÌÜ >Ì Ì >> 1 `iÀÃi> ,iÃÌ>ÕÀ> Ì À i>` Ì Ì i iiÃi >À ­ i Ì ` ­> ` L>Àiv Ì ÕÝÕÀÞ] v V ÕÀÃi® £ä£ v Ì i Ü À `½Ã LiÃÌ V iiÃiî v À reins supreme at this dual-island some tempting dairy delights. Need property nestled in the South Ari we mention that the resort has been Atoll, so don’t forget to pack your voted the best hotel in the world, stretchy pants. After an afternoon several times? conradhotels.com iÝ« À } ­Ì i ÃÕL >À i À `i Ã Ü ÀÌ V iV } ÕÌ® À Ài >Ý } ­Ã>Þ i Ì Ì i ÛiÀÜ>ÌiÀ ë>®] > Ü Insider Tip: Since 2007, your taste buds to wander around the resort has been the primary the resort’s 11 restaurants and bars. sponsor of the Maldives Whale Shark An open-air Japanese feast can be Research Programme. Sign up for found at Koko Grill Restaurant, while one of the charity’s thrice-weekly a platter of Maldivian lobster will whale shark snorkelling excursions, certainly whet your appetite at the which take you up close and personal adult-only Quiet Zone. Book a table Ü Ì Ì i >À}iÃÌ wÃ Ì i Vi> °

Four Seasons Kuda Huraa

Some of the best waves in the world are just minutes from this 96-bungalow resort in the North Malé Atoll. Learn to catch the perfect wave at the surf school or charter a seaplane to take you to a secluded break, then embark on a thrilling snorkel shark safari or a world-class diving experience. Or ÕÃÌ Ã> ÛiÀ Ì Ì i à > ` -«>] Ü V has thatched-roof pavilions and a « ÀÌ> LÕ Ì Ì Ì i y À Li Ü i>V massage bed so you can gaze at the marine life below. Combine your holiday with a stay at sister resort, > `>> À>>Û>ÀÕÆ ÕÀ -i>à à >à its own 39-metre catamaran that cruises between the two resorts. fourseasons.com/maldiveskh

Insider Tip: / i à > ` -«> stays open until 1am and offers 2.5hour treatments for two beneath the stars in the torch-lit lounge.

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2014 / 2015

Huvafen Fushi Spa Resort Maldives À Ì i i Ì Þ Õ ÃÌi« Ì ÕÛ>vi Õà ½Ã « Ü`iÀ à vÌ Ã> `à life seems to slow down – in a good way. Once you’ve dropped your bags at your beach bungalow or overwater pavilion, dive, snorkel, wà ] Ã> ] > ` VÀÕ Ãi Õ Ì Þ ÕÀ heart’s content. When the sun goes down, dine at one of four luxe but laid-back restaurants or the unique cellar restaurant eight metres under the ocean. Looking to explore the Kaafu Atoll further? Then book an expedition with the resort’s marine biologist, where guests can search for whale sharks and learn about coral creation in the stunning surrounds. And did we mention it’s i Ì Ì i Ü À `½Ã wÀÃÌ Õ `iÀÜ>ÌiÀ spa? huvafenfushi.peraquum.com

Insider Tip: Sail the Maldives Ü Ì Þ ÕÀ Ã } wV> Ì Ì iÀ L >À` > ` ] > ÈxvÌ L >Ì wÌÌi` Ü Ì state-of-the-art facilities and luxury amenities.

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Resorts

World Traveller // We Love The Maldives

2014 / 2015

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2014 / 2015

Dusit Thani Maldives

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V>Ìi` >Ì Õ` ` à > ` >> Atoll, this 94-villa resort is encircled by white sandy beaches and a house reef so you can dive and snorkel all day long, or just take a dip in the > ` Ûiý >À}iÃÌ w ÌÞ « ° Ƃà you’d expect, the open-plan villas have subtle Thai touches and most V i Ü Ì > «À Û>Ìi « ­v> ià will love the 262sqm, two-bedroom Li>V «>`®° Ƃ } L> ÀiÛ> « v Ì i brand’s Benjarong restaurant menu has seen the introduction of exciting V Ìi « À>ÀÞ / > y>Û ÕÀð ÕÌ Ì½Ã the Devarana Spa that really sets this place apart, with six deluxe treatment pods nestled high in the palm trees and exceptionally soothing Thai treatments and therapies. dusit.com

Insider Tip:

Don’t leave without trying Benjarong‘s new 72-hour slow cooked beef ribs in aromatic green curry.

Resorts

World Traveller // We Love The Maldives

2014 / 2015

Kanuhura Resort

On the edge of the remote Lhaviyani Atoll, this small oval island is home to 80 thatched beach villas and 20 overwater ones with hammocks suspended from the deck for oversea sunbathing. There’s a private à > ` iÝÌ ` À ­ À Ã Õ ` Üi Ã>Þ > wÛi ÕÌi L >Ì À `i >Ü>Þ® Ü Ì > « Ü`iÀ w i Li>V vÀ }i` LÞ coconut palms and a tiny restaurant open for lunch and candlelit dinners ­ À >Ã Ì i V iv Ì «>V Þ Õ >

} ÕÀ iÌ « V V ÃÌi>`®° / iÀi >Ài more than 40 excellent dive sites to discover and a wonderful spa with - ÕÌ >ÃÌ ƂÃ > Ì iÀ>« ÃÌÃ ­ÌÀÞ Ì i signature 90-minute Aromastone Massage using smooth, black stones vÀ > ®° kanuhura.com

Insider Tip: Ramp up the romance with breakfast for two aboard your own personal dhoni.

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2014 / 2015

Angsana Iruhu

Ûi ] Ì i >Ì > > }Õ>}i v Ì i > ` ÛiÃ] ¼ ÕÀÕ½ i> Ã ‘old palm trees.’ This sums up this gorgeous resort perfectly, because it’s one of the most well-preserved and unspoiled locations in this picturesque part of the world.

- ÌÕ>Ìi` Ì i à > ` v ÕÀÕ Ì i North Malé Atoll, just a 20-minute speedboat ride away from the capital, and surrounded by one of the best-preserved coral reefs in the Maldives, this stunning resort gets you as close to nature as anywhere in Ì i Ü À ` q > Ì i Ü i vviÀ } wÛi star luxury. Each villa on the property faces onto the beach, while the truly glamorous can enjoy a Beachfront Jet Pool villa to while away their `>Þð i>À Ì i w i >ÀÌ v > ` Û > cooking or just indulge yourself at the Angsana Spa. angsana.com

Insider Tip: À Li} iÀÃ] guided snorkelling safaris are the perfect introduction to the underwater world.

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Resorts

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