IHG supplement

Your weekend starts here

There’s a world of superb weekend breaks out there: allow us to help you pick out the perfect one for you...

Contents 2 Africa The Big Five and the Long Drop.

4 Bahrain Aqua parks and super souks.

6 Egypt Designer diving and Red Sea spas.

8 Jordan Chariot races and Wadi Rum sunsets.

10 Kuwait Picture-perfect parks and sky-high views.

12 Lebanon Ski resorts and ancient grottoes.

14 Mauritius Luxury cruises and playing with lion cubs.

It’s so easy to lose sight of your weekends. In amidst the chores, jobs and lost afternoons spent popping in to the office ‘just for a couple of hours’, those two precious days all too often pass by in an unmemorable flash. We’re here to tell you it doesn’t have to be this way.

Just a few hours from your door lie a wealth of weekend possibilities – you can be pitching down the fairway in

Mauritius, watching dolphins in Oman, catching the sunset over Roman ruins in Lebanon or waterparking in Bahrain before you know it.

It’s all so much simpler than you might imagine – just flick inside our guide to 11 of the region’s best destinations and start planning a tailormade break to reconnect with the people you love the most, store up some lovely memories and reclaim your weekend.

16 Oman Mountain treks and meeting turtles.

18 Qatar Theme parks and Islamic art.

20 Saudi Arabia Retail therapy and Madain Saleh.

22 The UAE Desert balloons and top golfing.

24 Choose your hotel Perfect spots to rest your head.

Produced by HOT Media hotmediapublishing.com

Bantry Bay, Cape Town, and one of the Big Five. Right: Giraffe Centre, Fresh, abseiling

Africa

Discover the rich, diverse and beautiful land in style, from the coastal paradise that is Cape Town to history rich Nairobi...

For couples The northern city of Pretoria iin South Africa s awash with beautiful green spots, perfect for romantic strolls. The Pretoria National Botanical Garden is a 76-hectare

Kruger National Park is the best place to see the Big Five, with prolific birdlife and fabulous views

urban oasis divided into two parts

2

to Church Square and the Slave Lodge where slaves were made to wait under a ‘slave tree’ while their ‘owners’ attended church. The Lodge is now home to dozens of fascinating artefacts and regular exhibitions – see ziko.org.za for

– a frosty south-facing section and

and lions). Kruger National Park

details. The infamous Robben Island

warmer north-facing area – by a

(krugerpark.co.za) is the best place

(www.robben-island.org.za) where

50-metre-high quartzite outcrop, and

to do it in South Africa, although

Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, is

between May and September you can

there are game reserves dotted

also a must-visit. If you’re in Nairobi,

head there and enjoy a Garden Picnic

throughout the country. In Kenya,

be sure to check out The National

Concert. There are also some lovely

a real family favourite is the Giraffe

Museum of Kenya, which is chockful

walks in the National Zoological

Centre in Nairobi (www.giraffecenter.

of interesting artefacts, and the

Gardens and nearby Rietvlei Nature

org) where kids can hand-feed or

delightful Watatu Gallery where

Reserve.

even kiss the placid giraffes.

you’ll find traditional Kenyan art.

For families

For culture

For adventure

You simply can’t take your children

Visitors to Cape Town who would

Adrenaline junkies are exceedingly

to Africa and not witness the Big Five

like to find out about South Africa’s

well catered for in South Africa: in

(elephants, leopards, buffalo, rhinos

turbulent history should pay a trip

fact, you name the white-knuckle

Africa

sport, and you can pretty much

see the pristine valleys and ancient

guarantee the country will offer

rocky gorges in this wonderful area?

it in some form or other. If you’re staying in Cape Town, try your hand

For relaxation

at abseiling (without the arduous

The Western Cape in South Africa

climb beforehand). The Long Drop

is the perfect spot from which to

– the second highest commercial

indulge in some whale-spotting.

abseiling point in the world – is not

As well as Humpback Whales,

for the faint-hearted, with a 112m

best known for their spectacular

drop from Table Mountain and

out-of-water leaping, it’s possible

stunning views of the city. If you’re

to see Southern Rights. The peak

after a lung-busting walk, The

period during which to look for these

Ngong Hills, southwest of Nairobi,

incredible creatures is between

is a superb place for trekking, while

July and October, although smaller

back in South Africa, Tarzan types

species populate the water year-

can swing through treetop canopies

round – try viatour.com, who will get

in Magaliesberg, 90 minutes from

you out on the ocean in search of

Johannesburg and Pretoria. Check

the big beasts. If you’re in Nairobi,

out canopytour.co.za for booking

nothing tops a gentle stroll around

details. What better way is there to

the historical Uhuru Gardens.

LONG ROAD TO PEACE Soweto’s Vilakazi Street is the only road on Earth that houses two Nobel Peace Prize winners – Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. SCAR TACTICS South Africa has the world’s oldest meteor scar – two billion years old. LEAF NOTES Table Mountain has more plant species than the entire United Kingdom.

Perfect

dinners Eat in The Crowne Plaza Johannesburg - The Rosebank-based Fresh (00 27 11 448 3600) is a fab openplan spot for international food.

Eat in See north Indian delicacies being prepared in an open kitchen at Bhandini (00 254 20 320 0000), a sophisticated dining spot at the InterContinental Nairobi.

Eat in The Atrium at the Towers (00 27 11 780 5555) in the InterContinental Johannesburg Sandton Towers dishes up simple, tasty dishes like grilled sea bass.

Eat out Adventurous Cape Town visitors should check out Ginja (121 Castle Street, 00 27 21 426 2368) where chocolate is an inventive menu.

3

Aerial view of Manama Right, clockwise: waterskiing, Le Bistro,The Tree of Life, the Bab Al Bahrain

Bahrain

A small and friendly nation filled with cultural and adventurous surprises for the weekend tripper...

4

For couples

For families

Step through the Bab Al Bahrain

Kids will adore a day trip to The Lost

gate in Manama and you’ll find

Paradise of Dilmun (lpodwaterpark.

yourself in the heart of the charming

com), a huge waterpark filled

and old-fashioned Manama Souk

with exciting rides, including the

– a great place for couples to spend

pendulum-style Boomerango slide,

a leisurely morning browsing the

the near-vertical Speed Slide and

stalls, and picking up trinkets and

the twisting Superbowl. There’s the

authentic knick-knacks to take

Paradise River, which you can bob

home, stopping off for thick, rich

along on a tube, through caves and

coffees along the way. If you prefer

waterfalls; the wave pool and sandy

your shopping air conditioned and

beach; and the Family Raft Ride – up

modern, head over to the Seef

to four people can get on board and

neighbourhood, where you’ll find a

plummet down a chute to a splash

clutch of sparkling malls including

landing. Parents will love chilling in

Dana Mall (particularly good for

the therapeutic spa pool while their

fashion, danamall.net), The Bahrain

kids dash about in the Rain Fortress,

Mall (excellent for electronics,

where they can soak each other

thebahrainmall.com) and the

with water hoses, stand under the

mighty Seef Mall (stacked with good

gigantic tipping water bucket and nip

jewellery stores, seef.net).

down mini slides.

Perfec t d

inners EAT IN Head to Waves at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain (00 973 1 753 1122) for local fish cooked in Lebanese, Thai or Indian style.

Eat in Popular Lebanese joint Al Berdaouni, by the poolside of the InterContinental Bahrain, (00 973 1 722 7777) has out-of -this-world mezze.

Eat in Every taste is catered for at Le Bistro at the InterContinental Bahrain (00 973 1 722 7777).

Expect seriously top-notch American, Arabian, Japanese, Mexican, Mongolian and Italian fare.

Eat out Trendy types will love the Italian food at Oliveto (Adliya, 00 973 1 771 6747) – the beef carpaccio is second to none.

Bahrain

Manama Souk is a great place for couples to spend a leisurely morning browsing the stalls

modern Bahrain’s cultural scene, meanwhile, swing by La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art (00 973 1 723 0123), an old building which has been remade as a home for exhibitions from around the world: after you’ve seen the latest collection

banana-boating,

For culture

you can stop off for a treatment at

sailing or waterskiing at the Coral

The Bahrain National Museum

the Centre’s inhouse spa.

Beach Club on Al Fateh Corniche

in Manama is an excellent place

(coralbeachbahrain.com).

to get an insight into this ancient

For adventure

nation, and covers over six millenia

Adrenaline junkies will adore a visit

For relaxation

of history. Here you can learn about

to Gulf Speed One, a go-kart track in

Few Bahraini experiences are as

Dilmun, the ancient civilisation of

Manama (gulfspeedone.com) where

calming or tranquil as taking a trip

legend thought to have been based

you can hire out turbo-charged

out into the desert to see the Tree of

in Bahrain, as well as Bahrain’s

single or twin-engine machines to

Life. It’s so unusual because it

more recent history. You’ll also enjoy

zip around the track at up to 40 miles

stands completely on its own – a

the hall dedicated to the natural

per hour, trying to shave seconds

great, green, centuries-old tree

history of the islands, and the

off your time and beat your friends.

with not a single other living plant

beautiful old Koranic documents

And if you fancy some aquatic

for miles around. Beautiful and

that are on display. For a slice of

action, why not go wakeboarding,

strangely moving.

ROLLING IN THE ISLES Bahrain is actually an amalgamation of 33 separate islands between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Qatar. GRAVE SITUATION Five per cent of the land in Bahrain is covered with tombs laid down over centuries of history. WATERED DOWN ‘Bahrain’ is an Arabic word meaning ‘two sources of water’, referring to the country’s sweet water springs and salty sea water.

5

The banks of the Nile and the Cairo skyline, Right: InterContinental Cairo Semiramis and InterContinental Abu Soma

Egypt Thought Egypt was just pyramids and nothing more? Time to think again…

For couples You won’t want to miss out on a glorious cruise down the Nile, one of the most eye-opening experiences in the country. But for something more off-the-beaten track, consider

Head to the beautiful resort of Sharm El Sheikh and you’ll experience crystal clear waters

heading to the Sahara’s Western

and save on luggage space by hiring equipment while you’re there.

For culture Obviously, Egypt’s most well-known attraction is the pyramids, and they

Desert where you can witness

it’s ideal if you don’t want to have to

are a must-see (as is the Egyptian

the majesty of an oasis with your

make a major excursion of it.

Museum in Cairo) – but there is far

partner, a memory you will cherish

6

getting burned in the intense sun,

more to this fascinating country. Ever

forever. There are four main oases

For familieS

since the downfall of the Byzantine

to check out: Siwa, Baharia, Farafra

The Red Sea is known throughout

Empire in 642AD, Egypt has been

and Dakhla. The 80km-long Siwa

the world for its fantastic snorkelling

an Islamic country and its rich

is dotted with limestone outcrops,

and diving. Head to the beautiful

history of different dynasties has

mineral springs and two salt lakes,

resort of Sharm El Sheikh and you’ll

resulted in an incredible array of

and its abundant date and olive trees

experience crystal clear waters,

mosques, their elegant domes and

make it feel like a real haven. Dakhla

white sands and vibrant coral reefs

cloud-poking minarets peppering

is so verdant you could almost forget

bursting with tropical fish, turtles

the skyline. Many can be found

you’re in the desert; tranquil Farafra

and sometimes even dolphins. Be

within the country’s main seat of

is ideal for couples seeking solitude;

sure to get rash vests for the kids

power, the Citadel, which comprises

and Baharia is accessible by road so

as it will stop their backs from

palaces (now museums) and an

Egypt

impenetrable fortress. In Fustat, the

For relaxation

city which originally stood south of

If the very thought of getting

where Cairo now is, you can visit the

horizontal by a quiet pool, chilled

oldest mosque in Africa which has

juice in hand, sends you into

undergone so many architectural

raptures, make a beeline for the

reinventions it’s now unrecognisable

InterContinental Abu Soma resort in

from its original structure.

Hurghada (00 20 65 326 0700).

It’s set on the idyllic Red Sea

For adventure

coastline, where hundreds of

The next item on the agenda of

palm trees are dotted around the

thrill-seekers who’ve already done

surrounding twin bays and the

snowboarding and wakeboarding

enormous free-form swimming

has got to be sandboarding. We’re

pool, complete with cave shelters, is

not talking going down a little hill

perfect for a spot of wallowing if you

on a tray – this is serious business:

can’t quite muster the energy to walk

the dunes in the Western Desert

to the private beach.

are some of the biggest in the

Perfect

dinners EAT IN Head to Il Portico at the InterContinental Abu Soma in Hurghada (00 20 65 326 0700) for authentic trattoria-style antipasti and pizzas from the brick oven.

EAT IN The Souq al Hana Restaurant at the Crowne Plaza Sahara Sands (00 20 65 336 0000) in Port Ghalib is one of the area’s liveliest dining spots, with interactive cooking stations offering international dishes.

For true indulgence, you should

world at up to 300 metres high, and

book up a treatment or two (we

participants in the sport get fully

recommend the Bangkok Mist,

kitted out with boards and boots.

incorporating Thai massage, coconut

Given the lack of chair lifts, it’s pretty

scrub and coffee body peel) at the

exhausting, but also brilliant fun.

hotel’s spa.

PRODUCT PLACEMENT Many items we now consider essential – including keys, scissors, toothbrushes and deodorant – were invented by the Ancient Egyptians, as were the 24-hour system and 365-day calendar. SNOOZE HEADLINES Some Ancient Egyptians slept on pillows made of stone. PYRAMID SCHEME About 15 per cent of the Great Pyramid of Cheops is made from sand from an entirely different area of Egypt - but noone knows why.

EAT IN Those seeking extravagant French fare should head to The Grill at the InterContinental Cairo Semiramis (00 20 2 2 795 7171), with its fab Nile views.

EAT OUT For a trendy, relaxed vibe, head to Cedars (42 Geziret Al Arab Street, 00 20 2 3347 2537), an al fresco Cairo spot with grand Lebanese food – the grilled lamb is a favourite.

7

The Treasury at Petra. Right: Crowne Plaza Resort Petra, The Dead Sea, Wadi Rum

Jordan

Perfec t d

From chariot racing and ancient ruins to boutique shopping, Jordan has something for everyone...

For couples

com). Head to the hippodrome

The Jordanian capital of Amman is

at Jerash (about 50 minutes’

a must-visit for couples: as well as

drive from Amman) and you can

being an excellent base from which

wander around the 6,500-year-old

to explore the northwestern parts

Greco-Roman site, where toga-clad

of the country, the city is filled with

legionnaires roam the walkways and

history in the form of the Roman

mingle with the tourists. A trumpet

amphitheatre and the citadel.

blare proclaims the beginning of

Shopaholic couples will be in their

the pre-race fight, and Roman

element - as well as the souks and

soldiers emerge and battle it out in

street stalls of the central downtown

gladiatorial contests, hurling spears

area (Balad), there are malls galore

and crossing swords in a scarily

(our top recommendation is the

convincing manner. Next, decide

excellent City Mall).

which team to support and watch from the edge of your seat as four

For families

horse-drawn chariots zoom through

Looking for a truly unique way to

their seven laps. Unmissable.

keep the kids entertained? Few

8

mini-holidaymakers would turn

For culture

their noses up at watching a real

One of the new seven wonders of the

live chariot race (jerashchariots.

world, Petra is absolutely

inners EAT IN The very finest steak is the name of the game at Below 393 at the Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea (00 962 5 349 5555).

EAT IN For unrivalled views of the towering cliffs, eat on the terrace at The Basin at the Crowne Plaza Resort Petra (00 962 3 215 6266).

EAT IN Indu at the InterContinental Amman (00 962 6 464 1361) takes guests back to colonial India and features dishes from different regions each month.

EAT OUT Fakhr El Din (Jabal Amman, 2nd circle, 00962 6 465 2399) is set in a 1950s Amman home, with an enormous garden in which diners can enjoy Lebanese fare.

Jordan

At Jerash, togaclad legionnaires roam the walkways and mingle with the tourists

city into an artificial oasis. It’s an enormous area to explore so make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes.

For adventure You haven’t seen a wadi until

then you can also lie

spectacular; a trip to Jordan would

you’ve seen Wadi Rum. Soaring

beneath more stars than you would

be incomplete without seeing it. Best

dramatically above the desert sands,

have thought could possibly exist in

recognised for its role in Indiana

the vast sandstone and granite

one sky.

Jones, Petra was entirely carved

ridges that flank the valley have been

into the stone of the red-rocked

eroded over thousands of years by

For relaxation

mountains in 100BCE and remained

fresh water springs, leading to the

What could be more relaxing than

undiscovered by the western

wadi becoming a handy meeting

bobbing around in the sea without

world until 1812. Its fortress-like

point for caravans and Bedouin

even having to tread water? Head

construction was a smart move, as

tribes, some of whom inhabit the

to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on

it was built on a major trade route

wadi to this day. The breathtaking

Earth, and you can do just that, due

passed through by those travelling

beauty of sunset and sunrise at Wadi

to the exceedingly high salt content

between Gaza, Damascus, Aqaba

Rum has to be seen to be believed,

of the water. It’s a bizarre sensation

and Leuce Come on the Red Sea,

so make the most of your trip by

and one to do now – environmental

and the area contained a perennial

camping overnight (wadirumsunset.

groups have warned that it may have

stream which essentially turned the

com offers good overnight trips) –

disappeared by 2050.

FINE PHILLY Amman was called Philadelphia in Ancient Roman times. ANCIENT WONDER The Ain Ghazal site in Jordan is believed to have first been inhabited over 9,000 years ago. MEAL DEAL In Jordan it is widely considered polite to refuse an offer of a meal three times before finally accepting.

9

Kuwait Towers.

Right: Al Noukhaza, Souk Sharq, Rib Eye Steakhouse, view towards Kuwait City

Kuwait

Embark on a journey of discovery in Kuwait, a country packed with exciting things to see and do...

For couples Kuwait boasts a first-class shopping scene, with lavish malls where couples can immerse themselves in some serious weekend browsing.

Marina Mall and Souk Sharq, both

To get an overview of Kuwait City, head to the Kuwait Towers and climb up to the Viewing Sphere

on the Gulf Road, are good starting

kid-centric films like ‘Under The Sea’, ‘Fly Me To The Moon’ and ‘3D Bugs’. Your children will also love the ‘Discovery Place’ section, where visitors play with interactive exhibits which showcase scientific ideas and

points. Follow up with a trip to The

you’ll find the likes of Evisu, Seven

principles. In between hands-on play

Avenues (the-avenues.com), Kuwait’s

For All Mankind and Antik Denim.

and talks from special ‘Explainers’,

biggest mall, a high-ceilinged,

For a more traditional retail session,

there are computerised puppet

futuristically designed, palm-dotted

meanwhile, you should hit the Souk

shows each day, which bring home

space with dozens of designer

Al Mubarakiya, which is particularly

environmental messages to children.

brands. Round off your visit with a

good for gold jewellery.

You may also be lucky enough to

few hours in Villa Moda in Shuwaikh,

10

– and an IMAX cinema showing

be there on a day when the Starlab

Kuwait City (villa-moda.com). This

For families

Planetarium is in action: it’s an

super-modern spot is split into ten

The Scientific Centre in Salmiya

entertaining and inspiring experience

glass-lined ‘aquaria’, each dedicated

(tsck.org.kw) is a wonderful place

for adults and kids alike.

to specific brands – including high-

to take kids. There’s an extensive

end names like Prada, Yves Saint-

aquarium with a 1.5 million litre tank

For culture

Laurent and Gucci – with a couple of

filled with exotic sealife – don’t miss

To get an overview of Kuwait City,

multi-brand areas thrown in where

the regular shark-feeding sessions

head to the iconic Kuwait Towers in

KUWAIT

Perfect d

Sharq, and climb up to the Viewing

but highly fun game of Soap Football

Sphere in the first tower, where you

– you play a regular game of soccer

can get 400-foot-high vistas of the

but on a highly slippy surface covered

city and have a cold drink as the

in soap suds. They also have go-

platform rotates around, giving you

karts on offer plus, naturally, some

a 360-degree perspective on this

high-speed water slides, and wave

hyper-modern city. If you’re hungry

pools. It’s a brilliant place to go for a

you can enjoy a bite to eat in the

day of activities in the sun.

restaurant in the lower sphere – perhaps after watching the sun set

For relaxation

over the city. You’ll also want to visit

Take a stroll and catch some sun in

the National Museum on Arabian

the beautifully-maintained Kuwait

Gulf Street in Safat, Kuwait City,

Municipal Gardens in Fahd Al-Salem

which is home to a treasure trove

Street. You’ll also love the relaxed

of Islamic art from the Al-Sabah

Kuwait Musical Fountain on the

collection, alongside displays on

First Ring Road, a light and water

more recent Kuwaiti history.

spectacular, featuring scores of spouting water jets, which kicks into

For adventure

action from 6pm each night. Another

For some serious action to get your

restful way to spend an afternoon is

heart racing, sign up for a game or

to pay a visit to the Zoological Park

two of paintball at Kuwait Aqua Park

on Airport Road, home to 129 bird

(aquaparkkuwait.com). The aqua

species plus tigers, lions, giraffes,

park is also home to the little-known

zebras and other exotic creatures.

inners Eat in The Rib Eye Steakhouse (00 965 2 576 0000), in the Holiday Inn Kuwait, has a comforting mountain lodge-style ambience and thick, juicy steaks with all the saucy trimmings.

Eat in If it’s Japanese cuisine you’re after, make a beeline straight for the Crowne Plaza Kuwait’s Sakura (00 965 474 2000), which dishes up beautiful sushi, sashimi and teppanyaki.

Eat in Head to Il Centro at the Holiday Inn Downtown Kuwait (00 965 1 841 000) for fantastic pizzas, hearty pastas and wonderfully creamy risottos.

Eat out The Royal Mughlai (00 965 3 914 100, Fahaheel Makka Street) specialises in authentic-as-it-comes North Indian food.

HIP CHOC ‘Let’s Roll’, a track from Kuwaiti hip hop act Army Of One, was used for a Snickers ad in 2007. SMALL BUT BEAUTIFUL Kuwait is one of the smallest countries in the world, with only around 18,000 square kilometres of land. AIN’T NO MOUNTAIN HIGH ENOUGH Kuwaiti Zed ‘Zeddy’ Al Refai was the first Arab to climb Mount Everest in 2003, and is the 46th person in the world to have climbed the highest summits of each of the world’s seven continents.

11

Tyre and the Khalil Gibran Museum. Right: Beiteddine Palace, InterContinental Mzaar, skiing

Lebanon

From the Mediterranean shoreline to the snowcapped hillsides, you’ll love this country...

beautifully lit throughout. Couples

At Tyre you’ll find mosaic-lined streets, ancient public baths and a huge hippodrome

will love taking a boating cruise

of which have lovely architecture

through these ancient caverns -

and great shopping.

For couples Just 15 miles outside of Beirut you’ll find the extraordinary Jeita Grotto, an underground network of caves filled with stalactites and stalagmites and

town to perform. If you’re looking for a more active break, then your kids will love swimming and sandcastling on the beaches which ring the Lebanese coast – the one at Tyre is particularly fine.

For culture

don’t forget your camera. Another

12

across the globe descend on the

great day trip is to Bcharre, near the

For families

When it comes to culture you’re

Kadisha Valley, where you’ll find an

Out in the Bekaa valley you’ll find

absolutely spoiled for choice. There’s

ancient grove of age-old cedar trees

Baalbeck, a great place to visit

the ancient town of Byblos, just

as well as the splendid Al-Omari

with kids, who can race around the

along the coast from Beirut, where

Mosque and the Gibran Tomb and

film set-like ancient temples and

you can spend the day marvelling

Museum, where you can find out

monuments to their hearts’ content.

at the wonderfully intact Roman

about the life and works of the much-

And if you happen to be in the

ruins, before heading down to the

loved Lebanese philosopher and

country during the Baalbeck festival

shorefront for some barbecued

artist Khalil Gibran. You’ll also have

(baalbeck.org.lb) in the summertime

fish, freshly caught a stone’s throw

a great time wandering around the

(usually in July-August) then you’ll be

away. Then there’s the exquisitely

neighbourhoods of Beirut – check

in for fun, as hundreds of big-name

preserved sites at Tyre, where there

out Verdun, Hamra and Achrafieh, all

singers, dancers and artists from

are mosaic-lined streets, ancient

Lebanon

public baths and a huge hippodrome.

For relaxation

The palace at Beiteddine to the

Beirut is a walkable city,

south of Beirut is also wonderful, a

particularly in the centre. The new

beautiful 18th century mix of Arabic

heart is the Downtown area, where

and Italian architectural styles.

you can saunter around admiring the wonderful 19th century French-

For adventure

inspired architecture, popping in and

Lebanon has long been famed as the

out of the boutique stores which line

place where you can hit the beach in

the boulevards.

the morning and ski in the afternoon.

The real joy, though, is in snagging

The skiing is wonderful – up in the

a seat at one of the roadside cafés

mountains outside Beirut you’ll

on the pedestrianised Maarad

find a series of excellent resorts,

Street, and settling in for an evening

including Mzaar, The Cedars and

of flavoured shisha, outstanding

Bakish. Once you’ve tackled some

food and people-watching. Another

Lebanese red runs, you might like

great place for shopping is the town

to head over to the coastline down

of Tripoli, where you can meander

from Tyre, where you can head out

among the souks and pick up

on scuba-diving trips and explore

gorgeous Lebanese sweets and

sunken ruins of ancient cities.

olive oil.

NAME GAME ‘Lebanon’ is the oldest name of any nation in the world, having been in existence for over four millenia non-stop.

HEAD LETTERS The world’s first alphabet was created in the Lebanese city of Byblos. EXPAT FACT There are more Lebanese people living outside of Lebanon than in the country itself.

Perfect

Eat in dinners There’s a lovely mix of Thai, Japanese and Chinese food on offer at the pan-Asian WOK W.O.K. restaurant at the InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut (00 961 1 369 100).

Eat in Up in the mountains at the InterContinental Mzaar (00 961 9 340 100), you’ll find the marvellously authentic Al Hor Tent, where you’ll enjoy superb Labanese food.

Eat in For bird’s eye views and delicious Lebanese food, head to Top 21 at the Crowne Plaza Beirut (00 961 1 754 755).

Eat out Fish-lovers adore Salmontini.

(Ashrafieh, 00 961 1 337999), a restaurant dedicated to serving salmon in all its different forms.

13

Mauritius’ beautiful coastline and a White Sands cruiser.

Right: Noble House, Tamarina golf course, the pink pigeon

Mauritius

This is the Indian Ocean’s most exquisite island: get set for turquoise waters and heart-tugging scenery...

For Couples Mauritius offers postcard-perfect views around every corner and the best place to drink in its charms is from the deck of an outsized catamaran. You can hire one of

Cruise across the island’s colourful waters, past striking mountain ranges and jungle terrain

these from White Sand Tours

14

glass-bottomed boat - arrange this through Fragawills (fragawills.com) to see fantastically-hued tropical fish dart below your feet.

For Culture Sugar cane has long been a chief

(whitesandtours.com), crew

if you share a love for the great

driver of the Mauritian economy

included, for a private cruise across

outdoors. Start out at the Casela

and the sweet stuff is ingrained

the island’s colourful waters, gliding

Nature Park (caselayemen.mu),

in the very fabric of the country.

past striking mountain ranges and

where you can watch or even touch

As such, L’Aventure Du Sucre

jungle terrain. If you’re looking for a

lion and cheetah cubs in their

(aventuredusucre.com) is a great

little romance, make sure you book

enclosure, before hitting the super

place to go if you want to swot up on

your cruise to depart just before

chutes at Le Waterpark (maurinet.

the history of the island. You’ll learn

sunset, so you can watch the sun slip

com/waterpark), a small but always

of epidemics and refineries, slavery

into the ocean as its rays take a last

fun affair where, chutes aside,

and sugar booms in a well-thought-

dance atop the water.

adults can squeeze themselves into

out and surprisingly entertaining

rubber rings and float along a lazy

museum for kids and adults alike.

For Families

river while kids can clamber aboard

Another attraction providing an

There’s a whole heap of great family

a pirate ship complete with water-

overview of the island’s past – largely

activities in Mauritius, especially

firing cannons. Finally, hop aboard a

through old maps, paintings and

Mauritius

etchings – is The Blue Penny Stamp

which is suspended 30 feet above

Museum. You’ll find it next to Le

a river? You can book both of these

Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis, and

adventures through White Sand

it houses two of the most famous

Tours (whitesandtours.com). To

and expensive stamps in the world,

keep your adrenaline up, climb onto

the Penny Stamps. The stamps were

a quad bike and speed through the

originally issued in Mauritius then

mountains at Domaine de l’Etoile,

bought back after they had left the

also with White Sands: expect to see

island’s shores for the princely sum

deer, wild boar and monkeys.

of $2 million.

For Relaxation For Adventure

Mauritius is awash with golf courses

Take a bird’s eye view of this beautiful

where you can swing your stress

island via a helicopter tour. The

away. Head to the fine, mountain-

choppers seat up to four people and

flanked fairways at the Tamarina

there are various helipads dotted

Golf Estate (tamarina.mu) – the first

around the island where you can

course on the island unattached

hop aboard. The tour takes only 15

to a hotel – which is wonderfully

minutes, but in that time you’ll see

welcoming to visitors and a real joy to

mountains, jungles and beautiful

play. And when you’ve got your round

swathes of coastline. If that isn’t

in you might like to take a ten-minute

enough to satisfy your head for

drive to Flic en Flac, and kick back

heights, how about a heart-racing

on what’s arguably the best public

walk along a cable-thin wire,

beach on the island.

DEAD AS A DODO Mauritius is the birthplace and final resting ground of the famous flightless bird. IN THE PINK Keep your eyes to the sky and you might just see a pink pigeon. These gorgeous birds are only found in Mauritius. TALK THE TALK Mauritius has two national languages, English and French.

Perfect

dinners Eat in Indulge in fine Asian fusion food at Noble House at the InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort (00 230 261 1200) in a modern space that looks out to a beautiful beach.

Eat In You can sample truly fantastic seafood in Mauritius, and Segala at the InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort (00 230 261 1200) has some of the very best of it. Our advice? Get the soft-as-apillow lobster.

Eat In Modern Indian dishes are perfectly turned out at the garden-side Veda at the InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort (00 230 261 1200).

Eat out Ask for a table on the pretty terrace at Le Pescatore (Route Cotiere, Trou-Aux-Biches 00 230 265 6337) where you’ll enjoy grilled fresh fish.

15

The dramatic Omani coastline.

Right: kitesurfing, trekking, The Al Bustan Palace InterContinental

Oman

Rich in history and culture and replete with stunning scenery, Oman is waiting to be explored...

FOR COUPLES Stunning scenery abounds in Oman making it ripe for romance. If you’re looking for something to truly tug at the heartstrings, cruise the country’s fjords. Muscat Diving and Adventure

Another eye-opener is the extraordinary sight of giant turtles nesting on the beaches

Centre (holiday-in-oman.com) has

in the whole of Eastern Arabia where you’ll find the must-see Al Hoota Cave.

FOR CULTURE About an hour’s drive from Muscat

fully crewed, soft-carpeted dhows

where wild dolphins leap in and out

is Nizwa Fort, which is often cited

available for private hire so you can

of the ocean. It’s a fantastic spectacle

as the Sultanate’s finest historical

sail off into the sunset. Your route

and one that everyone in the family

destination. It was built over 500

will be flanked by the mountains that

will enjoy. Another eye-opener is the

centuries ago to protect Oman’s

make up the Musandam Peninsula

extraordinary sight of giant turtles

coastline from potential invaders but

– arguably nature’s finest offering

nesting on the beaches of Ras Al Jinz

these days it attracts only tourists,

to the GCC. Another fun thing for

- an estimated 30,000 turtles do this

keen to see a building renowned for

couples to do is to try their hand at

each year during the winter months.

its architectural ingenuity. One thing

haggling at Muttrah Souk, where you can bag yourself a silver bargain.

16

Jabal Shams – the highest point

Family fun of a more adrenalin-

you’ll want to buy while in Oman

fuelled nature can be found at

is Frankincense - the country’s

Xtreme Sports (xtremesportsoman.

signature scent. Salalah’s Old Souq,

FOR FAMILIES

com) in Muscat, where you’ll find a

where Frankincense is still sold from

Head to the Musandam, hop aboard

state-of-the-art paintball ground.

open sacks, is probably the best

a dhow and it will take you out to

Or how about a visit to the foot of the

place to buy it, though you’re also

oman

Perfect dinners

likely to find it in Muscat’s famous

but if we had to recommend just

Muttrah Souk. And while in Muscat

one thing it would be the deep sea

you simply must visit the visually

fishing. It’s brilliant.

stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the real gem in the capital

FOR RELAXATION

city’s crown.

In summertime Salalah, in the south of Oman, is the envy of the Gulf. Its

FOR ADVENTURE

high-peaked Qara Mountains draw

The list of outdoor pursuits on offer

light rain showers which bring

in Oman reads as long as your arm.

a green-tinged landscape and a

If you like your adventures to be

temperature that’s an average 10-15

death-defying, head out to Snake

degrees lower than it is in other

Canyon where you can tip-toe across

GCC countries. As such, thousands

hair-raisingly high wires which hang

of people descend on Salalah each

100ft above the ground, or have a go

summer to enjoy cooler climes and

at canyoning – a mixture of trekking,

the multiple celebrations which mark

climbing and quite often swimming:

the season. If you’re a seasoned

see holiday-in-oman.com for

scuba-diver, Oman has some super

booking details. Through the same

dive spots for you to enjoy, not

website you can also book to go

least in the Musandam area where

quad-biking, sailing or – one of our

underwater visibility during the

personal favourites – sand-boarding

summer is good and sightings of

amid huge dunes. Mountain biking

dolphins and turtles are common.

is also popular in Oman, thanks to

Check out musandamdiving.com for

ever-changing under-tyre terrain,

further details.

MAKES SCENTS Frankincense trees grow in the wild in Oman.

MONEY TALK Oman’s currency, the Rial, is pegged to the US Dollar at a rate of 2.6 dollars to 1 Rial. IT’S A DATE Omani palm trees are so highly valued that a list is kept of who owns each one.

EAT IN Make reservations at Senor Pico at the InterContinental Muscat (00 968 2468 0000), a lively Mexican restaurant that’s fantastic fun for families.

EAT IN China Mood at Al Bustan Palace InterContinental Muscat (00 968 2479 9666) offers lip-smackingly delicious food. Don’t place an order in China Mood without including dim sum, which are a particular speciality of this mighty-fine eatery.

EAT IN Enjoy superb traditional food and a warm Iranian welcome at the ever-popular Siraz Persian restaurant at the Crowne Plaza Muscat (00 968 2466 0660). Wise diners will grab themselves a seat on the lovely terrace where they can while away a relaxed evening.

EAT OUT Turkish House (Dohat Al Adab St, Muscat, 00 968 2448 8071) is something of a hidden gem in Muscat. It offers no-frills, cheap-as-chips, delicious grilled fish and wonderful home-cooked breads.

Try the meaty fresh hammour or excellent kingfish.

17

Doha and the Arabian Oryx. Right: Doha Corniche, The Museum of Islamic Art, the Fish Market restaurant, desert driving

You can arrange a visit to the Oryx sanctuaries where these graceful animals live

(00 974 487 6333) offers rides, games and an activity zone for toddlers.

Across town, Jungle Zone (00 974 469 4848) is an indoor theme park with enough rides to keep the kids at fever pitch for a few hours.

For something more sedate, how about locking horns with Qatar’s national animal, the Arabian Oryx?

Qatar

This bi-horned creature was once hunted to the point of extinction, but

Immerse yourself in the cultural charms of a country that’s shaken off its sleepy tag to become an internationally acclaimed holiday hotspot...

having been rescued by international

For Couples

of its location there are no roads

to manage its population. You can

If you’re in town as a couple you’ll

leading to The Inland Sea, so your

arrange a visit to the sanctuaries

want to experience something

best bet is to book up a private tour

where these graceful animals live

memorable and in Qatar that means

through one of the many operators

by booking through Net Tours

taking a trip to see a truly striking

who offer trips there: try Gulf

(nettours.com.qa).

natural feature. Khor el Daid, or

Adventures (gulf-adventures.com).

favour in Qatar, which became the first country to set up breeding farms

For Culture

The Inland Sea, is a huge expanse

18

protection agencies, the Oryx found

of eerily still water surrounded by

For Families

Doha is Qatar’s capital and home

nothing but gargantuan sand dunes.

If it’s no-holds-barred fun you’re

to what’s undoubtedly the most

As such, it’s a terrific spot to throw

after there are a couple of quick and

fascinating and content-rich

down a blanket for a picnic. Because

easy options in Doha: Circusland

museum in Arabia, The Museum

Qatar

TWIN TOWN Doha is twinned with Brasilia, the capital of Brazil.

FOOTBALL LEGENDS To mark the opening of its sports academy, Aspire, Qatar flew in Pele and Maradonna. NEWS OF THE WORLD Qatar is home to the highly successful Al Jazeera news network. of Islamic Art (mia.org.qa). Its

adventures.com for booking details).

reputation has reached so far that

Alternatively, you could take to

the New York Times hailed Doha as

the seas to either hook yourself a

‘the’ cultural destination of 2009,

whopper – the deep sea fishing is

in recognition of the museum’s

excellent – or simply sail across

impact since opening. The building’s

Doha’s West Bay in a boat hired

exterior alone is enough to have

from the Regatta Sailing Academy

you reaching for your camera – the

(regattasailingacademy.com).

multi-angular creation was dreamt up by a world-renowned architect –

For Relaxation

but the real gems are inside, where

Take a stroll along Doha’s lengthy,

over three centuries’ worth of Islamic

palm tree-lined Corniche until you

art is housed. Providing there isn’t

arrive at a cluster of dhow boats by

an exhibition on at the time of your

the Balhambar building. You can

visit, which may charge for viewing,

cruise across the bay on one of these

entrance and guided tours are free.

dhows – as always, the price and length of your journey is negotiable

For Adventure

– before hopping off for a seaside

Given its abundance of sand-

shisha. If retail therapy is more your

swept land and open water there

bag, visit the designer label-driven

are adventures aplenty to be had

Villaggio Mall. Meanwhile, golfers

in Qatar. You can head out early

may wish to follow in the footsteps of

afternoon to the desert in a 4x4,

the game’s biggest names by playing

racing up and over dunes, before

The Championship Course at the

strapping on a desert-ski to surf

Doha Golf Club (dohagolfclub.com) –

down them instead (visit gulf-

home of the Qatar Masters.

Perfect dinners

EAT IN At Za Moda at the InterContinental Doha (00 974 484 4444), modern flair meets tradition in Qatar’s finest Italian joint, where the pastas never fail to hit the spot.

EAT IN Satisfy the most ferocious appetite with sizzling steaks and flavoursome fajitas at family favourite Paloma at the InterContinental Doha (00 974 484 4444).

EAT IN It’s all about the ocean at the renowned Fish Market at the InterContinental Doha (00 974 484 4444). Dine al fresco to feel the sea breeze while you slice into the grilled fresh fish caught in nearby waters that very morning.

EAT OUT Choose from a vast menu of Japanese, Thai and Chinese dishes at Soy in the Souk Waqif but don’t dare miss the sushi - it’s superb.

19

The old town in Jeddah and the Kingdom Centre in Riyadh.Right: Madain Saleh, The FIsh Market and Al Faisaliah Tower

Saudi Arabia The Kingdom has a lot to offer to visitors, from ancient cities to hyper-modern malls...

For couples Take your better half on a shopping trip to the Kingdom Centre in Riyadh (kingdomcentre.com.sa), where you’ll find Al Mamlaka Mall, a fourstorey retail haven. Work your way

In the Balad souk in Jeddah, eye candy comes in the form of lovely old buildings fashioned from coral

up through the floors, popping in to

20

the country, where you can check out exotic animals including kangaroos, elephants, monkeys, leopards and crocodiles.

For culture You can get a real flavour of the ‘old’,

the likes of Dolce & Gabbana, Paul

For families

pre-oil Saudi Arabia in the Balad

Smith, Moschino, Ralph Lauren and

The centre of family life in Jeddah

souk in Jeddah, where haggling is

Salvatore Ferragamo. When you hit

is the sweeping Corniche, which

the order of the day and where eye

the top floor you’ll have to go your

is filled with activity throughout

candy comes in the form of lovely old

separate ways – the entire floor is a

the week. It offers glorious views

buildings fashioned from coral. In

dedicated ‘Ladies’ Kingdom’ where

out over the Red Sea, and a prime

Riyadh there’s Al Musmak Castle, a

the fairer sex can do some serious

position to check out the majestic

highly impressive 19th-century site

shopping at the huge range of stores,

King Fahd’s Fountain, the tallest in

that’s associated with the founding of

which include Gucci, Loewe, Mont

the world, which reaches a height

the country. While you’re in Riyadh,

Blanc and Dior. In Jeddah you’ll find

of over 800 feet – it’s particularly

you mustn’t miss out on a visit to

Tahlia Street, a boulevard at the

impressive at night when it’s lit by

The National Museum, a huge and

heart of the city that’s filled with big

multicoloured spotlights. For a fun

fascinating attraction where you

designer stores including Versace,

family day out in Riyadh there’s the

can find out about prehistoric man

Prada and Giorgio Armani.

Riyadh National Zoo, the largest in

in the Arabian Peninsula, ancient

Saudi Arabia

Perfect

Arab kingdoms and civilisations, the

you can spend a fascinating day there

pre-Islamic era and Islamic history.

scrabbling along narrow passes and

There are also halls devoted to more

uncovering glorious sights around

recent history, including the story of

each corner. The best thing is that

the discovery of oil – it’s a fascinating

unlike Petra it’s not overrun with

place to take a crash course in the

tourists – so you don’t have to fight

region’s history.

for the best photo opportunities.

For adventure

For relaxation

If you love water sports you’ll adore

For soul-soothing, jaw-dropping

Jeddah. This is the place for sailing,

views, head to the viewing platform

fishing, jet-skiing and more in the

at Al Faisaliah Tower in Riyadh,

lovely warm waters of the Red Sea.

where you can take in incredible

Diving is also particularly popular

city-wide vistas. The InterContinental

here, thanks to the unpolluted

Riyadh’s nine-hole grass golf course

waters and the extraordinary coral

is a lovely place to relax and unwind

and exotic fish. For an adventurous

in the tranquil settings. Meanwhile,

trip out of town, you must organise

out of town, you can take a trip out to

a visit to Madain Saleh, an ancient

Wadi Hadramawt, a valley lined with

city which draws comparisons with

beautiful, lush oases, where you can

Petra in Jordan. Like Petra, it has

connect with the desert and enjoy

been carved into the living rock, and

some 4x4 fun.

WHAT A DISH The national dish of Saudi Arabia is Kabsa, a delicious spiced rice dish served with chicken, lamb or goat mixed with tomatoes and pine nuts. SWEET SURPRISE Saudi Arabians consume an enormous amount of honey – and Saudi Arabian honey is some of the tastiest in the world. BLADE RUNNERS The Kingdom’s traditional dance is the ‘ardha’, which involves men dancing with swords while a poet sings verses.

dinners EAT IN Swing by the Fish Market at the InterContinental Jeddah (00 966 2 661 1800) where you can select super-fresh fish and seafood from a big iced display, have it cooked to your requirements, choosing marinade, sauce and cooking style and enjoy it looking at great views over the Red Sea. EAT IN The Pavilion Restaurant at the InterContinental Riyadh (00 966 1 465 5000) is a lovely place for a long-drawn-out dinner with your family.

They offer first rate themed evenings (the Seafood night on Thursdays is particularly good) alongside a top à la carte menu: make sure to get a seat on the terrace.

EAT IN Hit the Marrakesh restaurant at the Crowne Plaza Al Khobar (00 966 3 889 7840) for noteperfect Moroccan food – the tagines are out of this world.

EAT OUT For authentic Italian food and atmosphere, try Maggiano’s on Tahliyah Street in Jeddah, opposite the Tahliyah Centre.

Their pizzas and steaks are particularly excellent.

21

As you rise into the air the beauty of the surroundings will take your breath away

on a tour around the Palm Jumeirah, offering unique perspectives on wellknown landmarks.

For families As well as the myriad beaches on the tranquil coastline, there are two

Golf and ballooning over the desert.

Right: Yas Island Circuit, Wild Wadi, Chamas Brazilian Churrascaria, Aquaventure

fantastic water parks in the region.

Aquaventure is best for adrenaline

The UAE

There’s a reason this country’s such a sought-after holiday spot: here are some of its biggest attractions...

junkies, with a near-vertical slide which plunges through a sharkinfested lagoon, while Wild Wadi offers plenty for tots and teens. If snow’s more your bag, take the gang to Ski Dubai (skidxb.com), which

22

For Couples

surroundings will take your breath

boasts the world’s first indoor black

There is plenty for couples to do in

away as camels and gazelles roam

run as well as tobogganing. For

the UAE: two great options are hot

the terracotta dunes, broken only by

something a lot more tranquil, take

air ballooning in the desert and a

the odd oasis. Water babies will be

a trip to Khalifa Park in Abu Dhabi,

sunset boat trip. If you opt for the

happier surveying the city from the

where there’s an abundance of

former, you will be collected from

luxury of a yacht: there are plenty of

fantastic amenities and lush green

your city base by Balloon Adventures

operators but we can recommend

spaces to revel in.

(ballooning.ae) and taken into the

Dusail (dusail.com), a husband-

desert first thing in the morning,

and-wife venture with just a few

For culture

before sunrise. As you rise into the

immaculate boats. They set off from

Ignore those who say that the UAE

air the astounding beauty of the

Dubai Marina and take passengers

is devoid of culture – there’s plenty,

UAE

TALL TALE The Burj Dubai is the world’s tallest building, standing at 818m. MAKING TRACKS Abu Dhabi is home to the most expensive race track in the world. GET THE HUMP A popular sport in Dubai is camel racing, with camels ridden by robotic jockeys. you’ve just got to know where to look.

of year but if there has been recent

Abu Dhabi is awash with cultural

rainfall, you will wade waist-deep

charms, not least the Cultural

through pools, scramble up steep

Foundation (visit www.adach.

rocky ridges and observe indigenous

ae) which hosts some wonderful

wildlife. If you’ve still got energy

exhibitions as well as staging plays

at the end, stop in Fujairah and do

and musical performances. In Dubai,

some snorkelling off Snoopy Rock.

have a wander around the galleries in the Bastakiya area, then hop in

For relaxation

a taxi to Dubai Heritage Village,

A fantastic way to get back to nature

where people demonstrate Emirati

and forget life’s stresses and strains

artistic traditions. Sharjah is great for

is to explore Abu Dhabi’s natural side

museums – the Science, Calligraphy,

from the perspective of a kayak.

Natural History, Maritime and

The land surrounding the UAE

Heritage Museums are all good,

capital is riddled with mangroves

as are the aquarium and Discovery

which play host to crabs, fish and

Centre (sharjahmuseums.ae).

birds, and Noukhada Adventure Company (noukhada.ae) will take

For adventure

you out on a guided tour as well as

For some active fun, head to Fujairah

loaning fishing equipment if you want

and go canyoning in Wadi Wurrayah.

to land some dinner. Land lubbers

You can either do this yourself or,

may be better served by a soothing

perhaps more advisedly, hire a

round of golf at Al Badia Golf Club

guide to show you the best route (try

at the InterContinental Dubai

adventure.ae). Water levels in the

Festival City (albadiagolfclub.ae), a

wadi will vary depending on the time

magnificent course by the Creek.

Perfect dinners

EAT IN Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire (00 971 4 701 1111) at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City has been voted the best restaurant in Dubai.

Its cuisine is best described as ‘experimental gastronomy’, and the dishes can sound crazy – but they work.

EAT IN Chamas Brazilian Churrascaria (00 971 2 666 6888), at the InterContinental Abu Dhabi, dishes up delicious hunks of barbecued meat and is great fun to boot.

Eat in Novices and connoisseurs alike will delight in the South Indian offerings from the tandoori clay oven at Tanjore (00 971 3 768 6686) at the InterContinental Al Ain Resort.

Eat out If you’re in Sharjah, don’t miss Bait al Mandy (00 971 6 528 1798) which dishes up authentic Yemen fare.

23

Choose your hotel...

24

Bahrain (80000 880)

Suites Beirut

OR Tambo Airport

InterContinental Regency Bahrain

Crowne Plaza Beirut

InterContinental Johannesburg

Crowne Plaza Bahrain

Holiday Inn - Dunes

Sandton Towers

Egypt (0800 44 333 220)

Mauritius (0800 999 136)

Crowne Plaza Johannesburg -

InterContinental Abu Soma

InterContinental Mauritius Resort

The Rosebank

InterContinental Cairo Citystars

Balacalava Fort

Holiday Inn Express Cape Town

InterContinental Hurghada Resort

Oman (0800 97 1234)

City Centre

InterContinental The Palace Port

Al Bustan Palace InterContinental

Holiday Inn Express Sandton -

Ghalib Resort

Muscat

Woodmead

InterContinental Taba Heights Resort

InterContinental Muscat

Holiday Inn Express Pretoria -

Semiramis InterContinental Cairo

Crowne Plaza Muscat

Sunny Park

InterContinental Residence Suites

Crowne Plaza Sohar

Tanzania (0800 999 136)

Cairo Citystars

Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah

Holiday Inn Dar Es Salaam

Crowne Plaza Sahara Sands Port

Holiday Inn Muscat Al Madinah

City Centre

Ghalib Resort

Qatar (0800 97 1234)

UAE (800 4642)

Crowne Plaza Sahara Oasis Port

InterContinental Doha

InterContinental Abu Dhabi

Ghalib Resort

Saudi Arabia (800 89 71 456)

InterContinental Al Ain Resort

Holiday Inn Citystars Cairo

Al Ahsa InterContinental

InterContinental Dubai Festival City

Holiday Inn Resort Safaga Palace

Dar Al Hijra

InterContinental Residence Suites

Staybridge Suites Cairo CityStars

InterContinental Madinah

Dubai Festival City

Ghana (0800 999 136)

Dar Al Iman

Crowne Plaza Dubai

Holiday Inn Accra

InterContinental Madinah

Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi

Jordan (0800 22 666)

InterContinental Abha

Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City

InterContinental Aqaba

InterContinental Al Jubail

Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island

InterContinental Jordan

InterContinental Al Khobar

Holiday Inn Dubai Al Barsha

Crowne Plaza Resort Petra

InterContinental Jeddah

Holiday Inn Downtown Dubai

Crowne Plaza Amman

InterContinental Riyadh

Holiday Inn Sharjah

Holiday Inn Amman

InterContinental Taif

Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi - Al Dana

Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea, Jordan

Crowne Plaza Jeddah

Holiday Inn Express Dubai

Kenya (0800 999 136)

Minhal Holiday Inn Riyadh

Internet City

InterContinental Nairobi

Najran Holiday Inn

Holiday Inn Express Dubai Safa Park

Holiday Inn Nairobi

Olaya Holiday Inn Riyadh

Holiday Inn Express Dubai-Jumeirah

KUWAIT (2473 2100 Ext. 6233)

Radhwa Holiday Inn Yanbu

Staybridge Suites Abu Dhabi

Crowne Plaza Kuwait

Hafr Al Batin Holiday Inn

Yas Island

Holiday Inn Downtown Kuwait

Holiday Inn Riyadh-Izdihar

Yemen (0800 999 136)

Holiday Inn Kuwait

Airport Road

Holiday Inn Mukalla

Lebanon (01) 426 801 ASK AT&T

Holiday Inn Riyadh Al Qasr

Zambia (0800 999 136)

OPERATOR TO CONNECT 866 866

Holiday Inn Al Khobar

InterContinental Lusaka

7556)

Half Moon Bay Holiday Inn Resort

Zimbabwe (0800 999 136)

InterContinental Le Vend么me Beirut

Jeddah-Al Salam Holiday Inn

Crowne Plaza Harare Monomotapa

InterContinental Mzaar Lebanon

Holiday Inn Al Khobar - Corniche

Holiday Inn Bulawayo

Mountain Resort & Spa

South Africa (0800 999 136)

Holiday Inn Harare

InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut

Holiday Inn Sandton-Rivonia Road

Holiday Inn Mutare

InterContinental Residence

InterContinental Johannesburg

Holiday Inn Express Beitbridge