Top 10 Eid Escapes
Arabian Travel News presents it’s guide to the ultimate Eid breaks
Maldives
Where: Shangri-la Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives
Why go?: Located on the remote, southernmost tip of the Maldives — reaching this resort requires a 70 minute domestic flight from Malé International Airport (during which passengers are presented with a certificate congratulating them on having crossed the Equator), and then it’s a short speed boat ride across from the island of Gan.
But for those who venture as far south as Villingili Island, their reward will be nothing short of an utterly magical Maldives experience.
One of the biggest resorts in the Maldives (with six kilometres of picturesque coastline, and two kilometres of sensational powdery, white beaches) the resort has the benefit of being able to cater equally well to both honeymooning romantics and families with energetic kids to entertain.
There are six villa types to choose from, ranging from water villas to pool villas. But the real show-stoppers are the tree-house villas. Nestled high up in the coconut palms, these villas come with private infinity pools and breathtaking vistas over the ocean below.
Being a Shangri-La, accommodation is the very last word in luxury and style. The sleekly-designed villas feature outdoor showers, oversized bathtubs and all the mod-cons (including iPods, and free Wi-Fi).
Total seclusion and privacy is the name of the game at Villingili, and once guests retreat into their own personal sanctuary, a villa butler stays on hand to attend to your every wish and whim, meaning you never really have to leave the comfort of your villa at all.
Having said that, with so much to do at Villingili, anyone tempted to stay put for the week, would soon change their minds. Nature is in abundance at the resort — the centre of the island features lush forest, freshwater lagoons and a mangrove swamp.
Every guest gets a bicycle, and the bumpy cycle rides through winding jungle tracks make even a trip to breakfast in the morning an adventure (buggies are on constant stand-by for the less active).
Visiting the local villages is actively encouraged and guests can take the boat across to the neighbouring island of Gan (formerly home to a British Naval base) for a cycle tour through local Maldivian life.
Other activities definately not to miss out on are snorkel excursions of the house reef, which teems with amazing creatures of the deep, from sea turtles, to manta rays, sharks and barracudas.
Or a sunset cruise to meet the atoll’s resident pod of hundreds of spinner dolphins, who are only too happy to race the boat and turn playful somersaults out of the water — much to the delight of guests.
Or for sheer indulgence book in for a spa treatment at Chi Spa and try the specially designed Cowrie-shell Massage.
Of course it’s the staff that make the resort what it is, and while the cutting-edge style and breathtaking location puts Shangri-la Villingili in a class of its own — its the charming nature and second-to-none service that will really steal your heart.
Contact: reservations.slmd@shangri-la.com / (960) 689 7888 / www.shangri-la.com.
EID OFFER: Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives is celebrating Eid ul-Fitr with a special package from US $860 per-night for a Pool Villa. The rate includes for two persons: one complimentary night when paying for four nights / return domestic flights from Malé to Gan / daily sheesha under the stars at the beachfront Manzaru Bar / one dolphin cruise / daily breakfast in Javvu Restaurant / two complimentary extra beds for children under the age of 12. Valid from 25 August - 10 September 2011 for a minimum stay of five nights.
Beirut
Where: Le Gray Hotel, Beirut.
Why go?: Located in the heart of
downtown Beirut, the funky, contemporary-style Le Gray Hotel is the ideal location to soak up Beirut’s lively atmosphere and check out the surrounding markets, trendy shops and nearby beaches.
After a day exploring Beirut, take a dip in the chlorine-free swimming pool on the rooftop, or experience a relaxing treatment at the PureGray Spa.
Not to be missed is the rooftop dining experience at Indigo, which offers up stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, Mount Lebanon and the city below. Follow it up with live music and panoramic views at the glamorous Bar Three Sixty — the perfect way to end your night.
Contact: reservations@legray.com / www.legray.com / +961 1 96 28 28
EID OFFER: Room rates start from $495 per night during Eid
GOA
Where: Alila Diwa Goa
Why go?: Situated in South Goa on the beautiful Majorda Beach, just 20 minutes from Dabolim International Airport; Alila Diwa Goa is a luxury retreat offering panoramic views of paddy fields leading out to the Arabian Sea.
At the heart of the resort is an infinity pool that reaches out into the paddy terraces. Rooms and suites are designed for quiet indulgence with an amazing bath experience, luxury bedding and a private terrace for taking in the picturesque setting.
The resort is complemented by a family entertainment zone that includes a theatre and children’s activity centre. Accommodation options include Diwa Rooms which feature a private terrace overlooking the pool.
The six Diwa Suites (85sqm) are ideal for families, with a spacious bedroom, lavish sized bath-tub and a large living room.
Contact: alilahotels.com/ diwagoa@alilahotels.com
EID OFFER: The resort is offering a ‘Suite Deals’ package inclusive of private airport transfers, accommodation for three nights on double occupancy, anytime breakfast at the Bistro restaurant,à la carte lunch and dinner at any outlet, complimentary 15 minute reflexology at SPA Alila per person, 15% discount on SPA Alila retail, free Wi Fi, Indian high-tea in the evening at Chai Gado, culinary classes with the chef; and a complimentary fourth night (room only) for all guests checking in on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Package prices begin at US $850 for a stay in a Diwa Room. Valid until 30th September, 2011.
Jordan
Where: Mövenpick Resort & Spa
Dead Sea, Jordan
Why go?: With its truly breathtaking location, on the northern shores of the Dead Sea, the Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea, offers up an oasis of tranquility, situated in a traditional village setting nestled amongst lush gardens.
The Dead Sea is well-known for its curative powers, thanks to more than 30% of its water containing minerals and salt that are beneficial to the skin so a visit to this resort is all about restoring your natural well-being and balance.
Guests can indulge in the legendary therapeutic secrets of the water at the resort’s famous ZARA Spa, where several special pools can be found featuring different saline concentrations, including an indoor Dead Sea flotation pool.
Contact: +962 800 222 02 / Resort.Deadsea.Reservations@moevenpick.com
EID OFFER: Rates start at US$ 70 per person based on two people in a standard room type, inclusive of buffet breakfast (rate is subject to service charge and sales tax.)
Europe
Where: Rocco Forte Hotels
Why go?: For those seeking the cultural highlights of a European city break this Eid, Rocco Forte hotels has created a series of exclusive Eid packages for its Middle East guests at its 13 properties across Europe, including Rome, London, Edinburgh, Prague Munich and Geneva, as well as special amenities including halal foods, specially-prepared Arabic cuisine, Arabic-speaking staff, adjoining suites for larger family groups and prayer mats.
The Charles in Munich and Le Richemond in Geneva even have shisha cafes to ensure their Arab guests really feel at home.
Contact: www.roccofortehotels.com
EID OFFER: The ‘Eid Celebration Offer’ includes a complimentary sixth night when guests’ book five consecutive nights, daily breakfast for two, personalised Eid Celebration welcome amenities, early check-in, late check-out, 10% discount off a spa treatment, plus a second room at half price for two children under the age of 12.
Seychelles
Where: Four Seasons Resort Seychelles
Why go?: The perfect place to re-charge, the brilliant green coastline of the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles reveals tree-house villas perched on a jungled hillside.
Spend the trip lounging by your plunge pool, strolling along the powder-white beach — considered one of the best on the island — or simply lying back and being serenaded by the tropical birdsong from the cinnamon trees and frangipani.
For some ultra-relaxation head to the spa, located at the top of the hill, with five individual spa pavilions offer spectacular views of the Indian Ocean below. A 54 sq m yoga pavilion connected to the spa by a timber deck is available from sunrise to sunset for private instruction or individual yoga sessions.
Contact: www.fourseasons.com/seychelles/
EID OFFER: Four Seasons Resort Seychelles has a three-night spa pampering offer including two spa treatments per person (one 60-minute massage and one 150-minute Coco de Mer ritual) and daily breakfast for two; from 700 EUR (US$1,006) for a Garden-View Villa.
Bangkok
Where: Amari Watergate Bangkok
Why go?: For an Eid break packed with shopping, cultural and family attractions where better than to head to the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Bangkok, Thailand? Asian hotel brand Amari has launched a number of value-add Eid packages for its Middle East guests, recognising the special needs of families, especially those travelling with younger children.
Contact: www.amari.com
EID OFFER: The Amari Watergate Bangkok has an Eid offer including complimentary family set dinner featuring authentic Thai cuisine at Season Thai Restaurant; fresh flowers and seasonal fruit basket in room on arrival, complimentary welcome drink on arrival, complimentary one-way airport transfer from Suvarnabhumi Airport, free extra bed for children under 12 years of age (1 bed per room). Rates start at US$ 395 for two nights stay in a Deluxe Room including breakfast. Offer is valid until 31 October.
Muscat
Where: The Chedi Muscat, Oman
Why go?: For a five-star experience alongside the crystal waters of the Gulf of Oman, look no further than The Chedi Muscat, one of Oman’s top luxury resorts.
Just a short drive from the international airport, this stunning hotel offers 156 rooms and suites, two swimming pools, a water garden and a stretch of private, sandy shore.
Most rooms have scenic views of the Gulf or surrounding mountains. For king-size beds and BOSE sounds systems, choose a Deluxe room, or upgrade to a Deluxe Club Room.
Club Suites look out over tranquil ponds or landscaped grounds and open-plan bathrooms have rainforest showers. For really authentic Arabian cuisine, head to The Arabian Court, with traditional water pipes, while The Restaurant offers Mediterranean, Asian, Indian and Arab fare and The Beach Restaurant serves seafood.
Contact: (96 8) 2452 4400 / chedimuscat@ghmhotels.com
EID OFFER: The Chedi has a package available for GCC residents starting at USD RO115 (US $298.70) for two nights stay for two, inclusive of breakfast at The Restaurant; plus 10% discount on F&B at The Restaurant and 20% discount at The Spa. Upgrade to a Chedi Deluxe room for a supplement of RO65 ($169) Valid until 30 September.
Maldives
Where: Baros Maldives
Why go?: It would be tough to find a more perfect setting for a luxury Eid escape than Baros. Just a 25-minute speedboat ride from Malé Airport, in a matter of hours you could be transported to this paradise.
The tiny island resort offers up classy, understated luxury — palm-thatched roofs peep out of the lush foliage; secluded villas are super stylish and elegant featuring chic designer fittings, cleverly concealed TVs, and polished wooden floors.
There are four main categories to choose from and every villa comes with its own huge terrace and sun beds and is no more than a few steps from the dazzling white sand. What truly sets Baros apart are the standout eating options. This is a food lover’s paradise.
Top class chefs serve up fresh lobster and tuna and celebrate local cuisine with a delicious Maldivian food night once a week. Guests can take classes with the chef to discover how to cook the Maldivian curry; or for a totally unforgettable evening the resort can arrange its sand bank dinner — a magical private dining experience on a tiny dot of sand in the middle of the sea.
Contact: +960 664 26 72 / reservations@baros.com / baros.com
EID OFFER: Special rates from US $517/double occupancy/night including breakfast applicable if booking four nights and more.
The Himalayas, India
Where: Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort, India
Why go?: For clients seeking a unique getaway this Eid as faraway from the rest of the world as possible — why not head to a mountain retreat in the Himalayas? Part of the Centara Boutique Collection of hotels, The Moksha Himalaya Spa resort is set amongst the breathtaking natural beauty of the Himalayas and offers up a stunning 360 degree panorama.
This out of the way retreat can be reached either from New Delhi by train or plane; or by plane from Mumbai to Chandigarh.
From there the resort’s car will transfer you to base camp where it’s a spectacular cable car ride to the hotel. Once at the resort guests can enjoy a Moksha ‘self-discovery’ experience — which is all about delivering a healthier, happier, and more enriched you.
Contact: luxuryhotels@dnata.com.
EID OFFER: The Eid offer starts at US$ 838.50 (AED 3,080) per person for three nights in a Moksha Suite, including breakfast and lunch daily and one pampering / well-being or discovery experience per day, return airport transfers, taxes and service charges. Valid until 31 October.