IHG Resorts_Apr'11

Image: InterContinental Taba Heights Resort

And relAx...

We know how precious your holidays are. That’s why we work tirelessly to provide you with exquisite, life-affirming experiences, so you can come home happy, rested and inspired from your holiday. We’ve got outstanding resorts in stunning and interesting destinations from the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean. We pride ourselves on our local knowledge and experience: whether you’re exploring the ancient and modern wonders of Egypt or preparing to take your first scuba dive, your perfect break starts here...

4 Where We Have Resorts Egypt 6 Top 20 Egyptian experiences 12 InterContinental Taba Heights Resort 13 InterContinental The Palace Port Ghalib Resort 14 InterContinental Abu Soma Resort 15 Crowne Plaza Sahara Sands Port Ghalib Resort 16 Crowne Plaza Sahara Oasis Port Ghalib Resort Mauritius 17 InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort Jordan 18 InterContinental Aqaba Resort 19 Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea 20 Crowne Plaza Resort Petra 21 Crowne Plaza Jordan Dead Sea Resort & Spa Lebanon 22 InterContinental Mzaar Lebanon Mountain Resort & Spa Oman 23 Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 24 Holiday Inn Resort Half Moon Bay

Produced by HOT Media hotmediapublishing.com

Where We Have Resorts It’s time to find your dream location, whether you’re looking for culture, relaxation or fun family activities...

We pick our resort locations

you can lose yourself for an entire

you can bathe in mineral-intense

with care, and each has its own

day, wandering around with wide

warm waters. And when it comes

charms and attractions. If you’re

eyes and with your camera on

to getting out into the wild, the

in the mood for getting out into

permanent standby.

magnificent Wadi Rum is one of

nature, experiencing a wonderful,

Jordan is also blessed with

those true must-see experiences.

welcoming culture and soaking

shorelines on the Red Sea and the

Awe-inspiring in its size, it bears

up plenty of sunshine, you should

Dead Sea, which means that its

the traces of ancient civilisations in

set your sights on Jordan. This

watersports are second to none.

its rock paintings, and is a superb

country is home to Hellenistic and

Laidback days of relaxation on

spot for hikes, hot air balloon trips,

Nabatean cities – including the

the beach are alternated with

horse-riding, 4x4 tours and even

wondrous rose red city of Petra

canoeing, kayaking, jet-skiing,

gliding. Just as impressive are the

– and dozens of world heritage

banana-boating, diving and all

other nature reserves which dot

sites. The incredible Greco-Roman

the myriad aquatic joys available

the country, including the Mujib

ruins at Jerash are a wonder to

in crystal clear waters. Just near

Reserve, known for its superb

behold – excellently preserved,

the Dead Sea are the Ma’in Hot

nature-watching opportunities and

they make for the kind of place

Springs (Hammamat Ma’in) where

bio-diversity: this is one of the few

4

Opposite page: Beach in Mauritius; This page, from top to bottom: Ancient temple of philae; Camel minder at Pyramids of Giza; Mohamed Ali Mosque.

herbs, and served perfectly tender

rains sweep through, lowering

with mountains of rice. Wonderful.

the temperature and covering the

Egpyt, too, has a huge amount

landscape in rich green vegetations

to offer visitors. Like Jordan it

and flowers. Combine it with

has its own delightful stretch of

an annual festival to celebrate

Red Sea coastline, which boasts

the occasion and you have a

a kaleidoscope of exotic sealife

guaranteed winner of a holiday

and ancient coral reefs. It’s also

destination.

perfect for families as well as

The nation of Lebanon packs

couples – alongside the imposing

an astonishing amount of diversity

sights it has myriad activities and

into a relatively small area. This

adventures for you to embark on

is the country in which, famously,

(see p6 for our pick of the best).

in the winter, you can ski in the

Another destination with a lot

morning and be on the beach in

going for it is Mauritius. This quirky

the afternoon. In the summer there

island is home to exceptional

are dozens of excellent festivals,

natural beauty, from towering

including cultural gems like the

green peaks to picture-perfect

Baalbeck International Festival and

coves, and from powdery white

the Tyre and South Festival. Other

beaches to national parks where

activities include visiting Byblos,

pink pigeons flit above your head

the home of the alphabet, where

and the scent of hibiscus fills the

‘Jordan is blessed with shorelines on the Red Sea and the Dead Sea, which means that its watersports are second to none’

air. The national Creole culture is a lovely mix of French, African and Indian, and sits perfectly alongside the stately trappings of its colonial past, including the statue-lined capital of Port Louis. A wonderful

you’ll find an amazingly complete

blend of international flavours

set of Roman ruins; shopping in the

comes through too in the national

high class boutiques and strolling

dance, the Sega, and the exciting,

the Parisian-style boulevards

chili-fuelled cuisine.

of Beirut’s Downtown area; and

Oman intrigues visitors with

indulging yourself in some of the region’s finest cuisine.

places in the world where you can

its long, uncrowded coastline, its

catch a glimpse of the magnificent

beautiful beaches where turtles

Horned Ibex.

come to give birth (there are few

of Saudi Arabia. An increasing

Finally there’s the Kingdom

Jordan’s towns and cities are

sights more awe-inspiring than

number of international tourists

filled with top options for visitors.

watching dozens of baby turtles

are visiting the Kingdom, and if

The souks are lined with superb

crawling their way towards the sea)

you live there already you’ll find

local handicrafts, from jewellery to

and the bewitching charms of the

that there’s so much to explore in

furniture, and are the ideal place

ancient capital of Muscat. Down in

your own country – the intriguing

to pick up some bargains after

the Dhofar region in the south of

diversity on offer means you can

a friendly session of haggling.

the country lies Salalah, a favourite

have an inspiring family holiday.

Jordanian food is delicious and the

escape when the summertime heat

Some of the highlights include the

nation’s restaurants are excellent

of the Gulf becomes too much to

lovely waterside city of Jeddah and

and affordable – don’t miss out on

bear: during the Khareef season,

the UNESCO World Heritage site

the national dish of Mansaf lamb,

the countryside in this area springs

of Mada’in Saleh, which rivals Petra

which is cooked with yoghurt and

into verdant life as sub-tropical

for its beauty.

5

Experience Egypt egypt is rightfully known for the incredible richness of its heritage – but it also has wonderful modern attractions. It’s this powerful blend of old and new, along with the warmth of the egyptian welcome, that makes it such an unbeatable holiday spot. Here’s our pick of the best things to see and do...

MEEt dOLpHinS At WAdi GEMAL Just outside Marsa Alam, home to Port Ghalib, is the Wadi Gemal nature reserve, where you can see dolphins at play, and get up close to them. They’re far from being the sole attraction though – you’ll also run into dugongs and turtles, gazelles, ibexes and slate falcons.

The reserve has a great diversity of habitats – you can see indigenous wildlife in mangrove swamps, coral reefs, salt marshes and palm groves as well as in the wadi itself.

For a real experience, take a tour with the Ababde tribespeople who act as guides, and accept their hospitality in their tented encampment.

EnJOy A SHOppinG SpREE At CityStARS Citystars is a huge development in Cairo which combines residential accommodation with hotels (including the lovely InterContinental Cairo Citystars) and shopping. The Stars Centre mall has no fewer than 643 stores – work your way around the likes of Morgan, Vero Moda, XOXO, Hugo Boss and Karen Millen, before unwinding in one of the myriad restaurants and cafes or catching an art show at the exhibition centre. If you’re with your kids, they’ll love the gigantic theme 6

park, Magic Galaxy, the largest of

charged quad bike. And you

its kind in the country, which has

can do this when staying at the

video games, bumper cars and its

InterContinental Taba Heights.

very own indoor rollercoaster.

You’ll get a full briefing and practice session before you start,

SnORKEL On Giftun iSLAnd

after which you’ll follow a leader

When you’re staying a the fabulous

around the picturesque landscape,

InterContinental Abu Soma

passing the occasional group of

Resort, you must make time to

camels along the way. When you

take a trip out to Giftun Island.

stop for a break you can revel in

It’s a protected, untouched haven

the calm and quiet of the area,

where the beaches are spacious

before remounting your trusty

and dotted with beautiful shells,

four-wheeler. Lots of different

the water clear and the coral

tour companies operate quad bike

astonishing. You don’t have to

trips, some including a delicious

snorkel far offshore to see the most

barbecue meal en route: your

incredible underwater sights and

concierge will be delighted to book

thousands of fish. Your kids will

you onto a trip.

Opposite page: Snorkeling. This page, from top to bottom: Statue of Ramesses II; Desert fun on quadbike.

love this place – it’s like a pictureperfect desert island, but with

tAKE yOuR fAMiLy

the added advantage of nice little

SAndbOARdinG

cafes where you can stop in and

Like snowboarding? Love

enjoy a lovely lunch.

wakeboarding? Then you’ll adore sandboarding. Get everyone

GO quAd-biKinG in tHE SinAi

equipped with boots and special

MOuntAinS

boards and head out into the

There are few things more

desert on an organised tour to

exhilarating than zipping around

tackle the dunes. You’ll start from

the canyons, wadis and dunes of

as high up as 300 metres and

the Sinai foothills on a turbo-

glide your way down with all the

MoMentS to ReMeMbeR: #1 Taking a sailing trip in a felucca A sailboat veteran describes the fun he had while cruising down the egyptian coast.

“I’ve sailed in many countries across the world, but the experience I had in egypt has to rank among my absolute favourites. everything was perfect: the weather, the scenery, even the company – I went on a tour with a group of people I’d never met before and we soon became firm friends. the biggest treat was to be able to try sailing a felucca, a traditional egyptian sailing boat, which had long been an ambition of mine. once we had settled into the rythmn of the boat and everyone had got used to their tasks, we had the most relaxing time, weaving in and out of the shoreline and anchoring up at regular intervals to go swimming off the side. It was a truly magical experience.”

Gerhard Stromberg.

7

elegance you can muster. It’s a

resort – a short safari trip out to the

surreal, invigorating activity which

extraordinary Coloured Canyon,

will leave you with a permanent

an other-worldly spot where

grin on your face.

technicoloured rock formations as old as time make for a fascinating

JuMp On tHE dAy bOAt tO

exploratory trek.

ELpHinStOnE REEf In an area blessed with world class

viSit pHARAOH’S iSLAnd

diving spots Elphinstone Reef,

If you’re staying in Taba Heights,

off the coast of Marsa Alam, still

you should definitely make time to

stands out from the crowd. Your

visit Pharaoh’s Island, also known

guide will position you perfectly

as Coral Island. Located in the Gulf

to make the most of the day’s

of Aqaba, off the Sinai Peninsula,

currents and minimise the amount

it’s home to an impressive 12th

of effort you need to make to see

century fortress built by Baldwin

the best parts of the reef: expect

I. It’s a place that’s filled with a

to see amazing sights including

fascinating history – talk to the

turtles gliding between astonishing

guides who will give you some real

cliffs of coral.

insights – and the cruise over there from the mainland is a great time

MARvEL At tHE AWESOME

to soak up some sun and take in

COLOuREd CAnyOn

the view.

A major touristic treat is at

8

hand for anyone staying at the

HAGGLE At KHAn EL-KHALiLi

InterContinental Taba Heights

For an ancient-meets-modern

Opposite page, top to bottom: Philae Island; Desert camping; Bargaining in the Bazaar. This page: Cairo skyline.

MoMentS to ReMeMbeR: #2 Relaxing in Soho Square “I’d been told about Soho Square in Sharm el Sheikh by some friends, so during our holiday I decided to take my family there for the day. they loved it! We strolled around this beautiful pedestrian development in the sunshine, stopping in at shops and lovely outdoor cafes and enjoying the live entertainment and the fountains and water features. the children went ice skating and hung out at the kids’ arcade where they played on funfair rides and video games before we all went bowling together. then we paid a visit to ‘Culturama’ where we saw a multimedia program which told us all about egypitan history from 3000 bC onwards. We finished with a fantastic meal at seafood restaurant Poisson Marché. I highly recommend it!”

Françoise Durand.

experience in Cairo, you can’t beat

and taken out for a 50 minute

this huge open-air market which

underwater tour on this 44-seater

sells excellent souvenirs, jewellery

submarine. The all-round windows

and spice. As you wander down

mean you’ll have fantastic views of

its packed streets, you’ll feel your

the Red Sea’s stunning inhabitants,

eye drawn in every direction, as

with expert commentary from your

wares spill out of every shopfront

guide. Make sure to bring your

and on to the pavement. It has

camera – the shots you can get

been running for centuries but has

from this sub are sensational.

been modernised over the years, with smart new boutiques and

tAKE A SunSEt tOuR intO tHE

cafes among the more traditional

EAStERn dESERt

offerings. One thing that hasn’t

Visitors to Marsa Alam can also

changed, though, is the buying

take a trip with one of several

process – you’ll need to have your

different tour companies into

best haggling skills at the ready to

the unspoilt Eastern Desert of

ensure you get the best price. After

Egypt (your concierge will be

you’ve found the perfect souvenirs,

delighted to help set this up for

relax with a delicious hibiscus juice

you). The journeys are organised

or powerful Egyptian coffee and

in conjunction with the local

watch the world go by.

Bedouin tribes and can be geared up to focus on ancient historical

CLiMb AbOARd tHE SinbAd

sites or the modern day lives of

SubMARinE

the Bedouins. You can choose to

Get your concierge at the

hike, ride in on camels or donkeys

InterContinental Abu Soma

or enter in an airconditioned 4x4,

Resort to arrange a trip for you

bouncing your way through wadis

on this underwater marvel – you’ll

and up mountainsides. There are

be picked up from your hotel

even astronomical tours – there’s 9

TOP TIP: Why not add a city break in Cairo to the beginning or end of your resort stay and experience the very best of both worlds?

GEt A JALAbiyA MAdE in HuRGHAdA A traditional Egyptian jalabiya is the perfect souvenir or gift for a friend back home, and there’s no better place to pick one up than in Al Dahar, the traditional shopping district of Hurghada.

Alongside jewellers, brassmakers, glassblowers, henna artists and grocers you’ll find talented tailors who can measure both men and women up for a beautiful jalabiya.

MoMentS to ReMeMbeR: #3 Making a debut dive A scuba diver tells us about taking his first ever plunge into the deep Red Sea...

“I was a little nervous before setting off as I’d heard such wonderful things about the diving in the Red Sea and I was worried it would be an anticlimax. I needn’t have: from the moment I plunged under the water I was entranced. the visibility is better than in any other dive site I’ve visited and the colours are so powerful and bright. there were huge schools of fish down there, and the deeper I dived the more exotic and beautiful they became. I dived with an instructor from InterContinental the Palace Port Ghalib Resort, who was great at showing me the best spots. We saw stingrays. moray eels, barracuda, jackfish, dolphins, octopus and dozens of different reef fish. I dived in the morning and afternoon every day of my holiday, and I never got tired of the scenery...”

Daniel Parry.

10

no better place to see the stars

Just pick the cloth from a large

than on a clear night in the desert.

range of options, settle on a price

The special sunset tours which

and they should be able to make

culminate in al fresco dinners are

it for you within the day. Not only

particularly brilliant.

are they that fast, but they’re extremely good value too.

SpEnd A MORninG At tHE EGyptiAn AntiquitiES MuSEuM

GO KitESuRfinG

This extraordinary repository of

The Red Sea Riviera has all the

history in the heart of Cairo has

elements needed for outstanding

in excess of 120,000 exhibits

kitesurfing – good weather,

(although thankfully for your shoe

reliable winds and warm seas. If

leather, not all are on show at the

you’ve never tried it before, you

same time). Wandering round this

can organise a lesson through

intelligently laid-out space, you’ll

your concierge – but if you’re a

get a crash course in the country’s

confident kitesurfer already, all

regal history, particularly that of

you need is to hire your equipment

the most famous of Pharaohs,

and pick a beach: Soma Bay and El

Tutankhamun, whose golden death

Gouna are both local favourites.

mask is on show, along with other possessions. You’ll be fascinated

pLAy 18 HOLES

by the Royal Mummy Room, where

If you feel that a holiday’s not

two dozen ancient mummies are

complete without a game of

on show. And although you can’t

golf, treat yourself to a round

take pictures, what you’ll see will

at The Taba Heights course.

be imprinted on your mind forever.

Pinned between the sea and the

It’s that good.

mountains, Taba Heights offers

grand views on all sides, and three

snaps of the citadel and the city

different countries are visible

below: on a clear day you may even

from each hole. It’s an imaginative

be able to see the mighty pyramids

course, which goes from four to

in the distance.

70metres above sea level, and incorporates no fewer than three lakes, alongside lush fairways and tough bunkers.

SpEnd tHE EvEninG At A bEACH pARty Hurghada has long been known for its fantastic beach parties,

viSit tHE CitAdEL

which go on from early evening

This is one of the most famous

until early morning. They’ve turned

sights in Cairo, a huge 12th century

the whole thing into an art form:

fortress which has played a big role

head down to one of the powder

throughout the last 800 years of

white beaches and you’ll find

Egyptian history. Today it’s home

chilled drinks, barbecues, DJs and

to mosques and museums. Take

hundreds of people socialising

a guided walking tour and learn

and dancing in sandals or bare

about this magnificent structure,

feet. There’s also plenty to watch,

whose previous inhabitants

including light shows, live bands,

included Saladin himself. You’ll

fire-breathers: and of course the

fill up a whole memory stick with

wonderful star-studded sky.

Opposite page: People riding camels into the sunset. This page, clockwise from left: Cairo Citadel and a felucca; Giza’s Pyramids; Kitesurfing.

11

InTeRCOnTInenTal Taba HeIgHTS ReSORT 00 20 69 358 0300

One of the Sinai Peninsula’s finest attractions, this resort mixes beautiful mountain views with perfect beaches and some of the best restaurants in the country.

There’s plenty to see in the area, including first class jewellery souks (make sure to pick up some of the local speciality of turquoise bracelets) and picturesque, centuries-old villages with fascinating histories. This is the perfect place to be inspired and relaxed at the same time.

By day Play a leisurely round on the PGA championship golf course, which offers lovely coastal views of the Red Sea at every turn.

By night Enjoy a seafood extravaganza at the poolside El Mar restaurant, before heading over to relax on the al fresco terrace at Arches Bar, where you’ll find live music on offer each evening. if you only do one thing...

Pay a visit to the hotel’s legendary onsite spa, where you can unwind with a wonderful massage.

Room with a view The outsized, vibrantly-coloured suites are second to none, and feature luxurious, ultra-comfy sunbeds on their private terraces.

12

EGYPT

InTeRCOnTInenTal THe PalaCe PORT gHalIb ReSORT 00 20 65 336 0000

you can take part in brilliant organised sea excursions by boat. by day

‘take a kayak out on the crystal clear waters, and top up your tan while idly paddling along the waves’

Take a kayak out on the crystal Water is at the centre of the

clear waters, and top up your tan

and in – the huge palm-lined pool.

InterContinental The Palace Port

while idly paddling along the

It’s the very definition of idyllic.

Ghalib Resort, in the form of a

gentle waves.

ROOM wITH a vIew

wonderful manmade lagoon and the Coral Coast of the Red

by nIgHT

You can’t go wrong with a water-

Sea. Everything is geared up

Rendezvous with your family for a

facing suite at The Palace. The

around relaxation and activities

laidback evening sipping delicious

decoration is filled with traditional

– the resort’s Six Senses Spa is

mocktails at the Look Out Bar,

touches – including lots of ornate

unmissable, and offers world

followed by a great dinner at the

woodwork, arches and rich swags

class treatments, and the diving

Olive Restaurant.

of beautiful cloth – and the four-

on offer at the resort’s own reef

poster beds are wonderfully comfy.

If yOu Only dO One THIng

Best of all, though, is the view out

your fill of swimming alongside

Do not on any account miss out on

over the lagoon from your private

barracudas, lionfish and turtles,

a lovely lazy morning spent by –

terrace. Stunning.

is exceptional. When you’ve had

13

InTeRCOnTInenTal abu SOMa ReSORT 00 20 65 326 0700

you prefer to indulge in endless

for Italian at Il Portico, or Middle

activities or just to soak in the sun

Eastern at El Tannour?

and scenery, this resort is a classic holiday destination.

you first arrive here is magical – a

if you only do one thing Get your concierge to arrange

The view that greets you when By day

a horse-riding trip in the

powder white beach surrounded

You’ll be spoilt for choice – go

neighbouring countryside – it’s a

by palm trees and a still ocean

diving or windsurfing, play tennis

lovely experience that you won’t

beyond. Immaculate gardens filled

on the clay courts, or head out on a

forget in a hurry.

with exotic birds and beautiful

day trip to the nearby islands.

Room with a view

statues complete the mix and you must visit its many restaurants and

By night

Awake in luxury each morning in

stunning spa: try the ‘Cleopatra’s

Meet before dinner at the pretty

your Panorama or Presidential

Charm’ package, which mixes a

Atrium bar, where koi fish dart

suite, step out onto the balcony

steam with a milk body mask and a

around in giant tanks, and puzzle

and look out over the ocean, dotted

long-drawn-out massage. Whether

over your options – do you go

with distant desert islands.

14

EGYPT

CROwne Plaza SaHaRa SandS PORT gHalIb ReSORT 00 20 65 336 0000

by day

equipment can be laid on too so

Take a stroll down to Port Ghalib

you can enjoy the adventure to

International Marina and stop

the full.

by one of the myriad cafes and restaurants for a lazy lunch. Then

ROOM wITH a vIew

If you’re looking for a family-

head over to the city of Marsa Alam

The rooms here take their

friendly resort, look no further.

and take a wander in the pretty

inspiration from traditional Bedouin

The Crowne Plaza has everything

little souk where you can haggle

tents – they’re richly decorated

to make sure your kids – and

over the price of your souvenirs.

and finished with beautiful old coffee pots and lanterns. The suite

you – have the most wonderful time. There’s a dedicated ‘Activity

by nIgHT

beds, meanwhile, are deep and

Courtyard’ where they can let off

You’ll love the Mediterranean

supremely soft – and made-up with

steam playing video games, pool,

flavours at Cardamom, the North

only the finest Egyptian cotton,

air hockey and basketball; a special

African dishes at Souk El Hana and

naturally...

kids’ diving course where they can

the ice cold freshly-squeezed juices

learn how to dive in shallow waters

at the comfy Pool Bar.

with a qualified PADI instructor; a Kids’ Club which runs endless

If yOu Only dO One THIng

activities – oh, and a tremendously

Splash out and take to sea in

fun miniature golf course.

a yacht for a half or full day at

Meanwhile all you have to do is lay

the Port Ghalib International

back and relax by the pool.

Marina: catering and watersports

‘If you’re looking for a family-friendly resort, look no further. the Crowne Plaza has everything to make sure your kids – and you – have the most wonderful time’ 15

EGYPT

CROwne Plaza SaHaRa OaSIS PORT gHalIb ReSORT 00 20 65 336 0000

the cosiest spots in the place is

bands and DJs and chill out in the

Shamlula’s, a dainty lunchtime

excellent Grand Café.

restaurant where you can indulge in great food while overlooking the pool and gardens.

a trip out to the House Reef in

The traditional theming of the decor at this resort is a joy to

If yOu Only dO One THIng Get the concierge to organise you

by day

the Sha’ab Samadai national park

behold: the arches, low lighting

Throw yourself into aquatic

where, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to

and sculptures create a restful,

activities including fishing,

witness acrobatic tricks from the

authentic vibe. The resort offers

submarine trips, kayaking,

pod of dolphins which lives there.

easy access to all the delights

wakeboarding, kneeboarding

of Port Ghalib as well as some

and parasailing.

pleasures all of its own, including the magnificent Six Senses Spa,

ROOM wITH a vIew It’s a tough choice between a sea,

by nIgHT

lagoon or garden view. Whichever

which is equipped with its very

Stroll over to the VIP Club on the

you pick, each room is designed to

own Hammam bath. One of

Marina where you can enjoy live

make you feel instantly relaxed.

16

MAURITIUS

InTeRCOnTInenTal MauRITIuS ReSORT balaClava fORT

By day

if you only do one thing

Choose from all manner of aquatic

Spend an unforgettable afternoon

activities – glass-bottom boating

at the resort’s Angsana Spa, where

is great. If you want to get out and

the Thai therapists will knead out

about, the resort rents out bicycles

all your tension, leaving you feeling

This wonderful resort is blessed

and scooters and can also lay on

years younger.

with a fantastic location on a

fantastic catamaran tours.

00 230 2611200

Room with a view

sheltered bay, with a first-rate stretch of beach. If you’re on a

By night

Happily, every single one of the

family trip, you’ll love the dedicated

If you book in advance, you

rooms here has an ocean view. But

kids’ pool, the special family rooms

can arrange to have a private

the smart choice is the stunning

– they’re a great size – and the kids’

three-course dinner on the beach,

duplex Presidential Suite, which

club for children aged between

an awe-inspiring experience.

comes with its own al fresco

four and twelve, where they can

Meanwhile, if you fancy seeing a bit

hot tub in which you can soak

socialise, play tennis and go on

of the island’s nightlife, the resort is

while looking out to the beautiful

outings each day.

just a short drive from Grand Baie.

turquoise sea beyond.

17

InTeRCOnTInenTal aqaba ReSORT 00 962 3 209 2222

toys, watching kids’ movies, painting and having running and tug of war competitions on the

‘It’s a warm and welcoming resort, where everything is geared up for your sheer enjoyment’

Aqaba is famed for its

beach. Meanwhile, you can be

watersports and beaches, and the

out waterskiing, wakeboarding,

InterContinental Aqaba Resort

buggying on a mountain trail and

if you only do one thing

allows you to make the most of

parasailing, before collecting the

Take time out from all that relaxing

both. It’s a warm and welcoming

little ones and taking them out

(if you can) and ask your concierge

resort, where everything is geared

banana boating, speed boating

to organise a day trip out to the

up for your sheer enjoyment –

and snorkelling.

legendary rose red city of Petra.

including the spa, a gorgeouslydecorated spot which employs

By night

Room with a view

ingredients from the Dead Sea in

Enjoy dinner under the stars at the

The hyper-spacious Royal Suite is

its massages and facials.

Burj Al Hamam restaurant then

the in-the-know choice and comes

relax in the lounge with chilled

with rich wooden furniture, super

drinks and a game of pool, while

luxurious bedding and a bird’s

Drop your children off at the

listening to the live DJ, who plays a

eye view over the 300 metres

Kids Club, where they’ll have

great nightly mix of fusion, lounge,

of private beach that stretch out

a fantastic time playing with

Arabic and hip hop music.

below it. Marvellous.

By day

18

JORDAN

HOlIday Inn ReSORT dead Sea 00 962 5 349 1550

interconnected pools, which are serviced by a great little cafe.

While you’re there, consider taking a spa treatment or yoga class, too.

The resort itself has been imaginatively and attractively

by nIgHT

designed to blend in with its

You can hit Al Deera for some

surroundings while referencing

excellent live cooking mixed with

traditional architecture. It cuts

gourmet buffet food or head over

a beautiful dash against the

to Below 393 – both are matched

skyline, particularly at sunset. The

with jaw-dropping views.

other real star here is the natural surroundings – the backdrop of

If yOu Only dO One THIng

mountains and the glinting, gentle

Take a tailormade trip with a

waters of the Dead Sea, located at

guide out to the awe-inspiring

the lowest point on earth.

landscapes of Wadi Rum.

by day

ROOM wITH a vIew

Spend your days bobbing in the

The suites here boast sleek modern

Dead Sea – it’s so buoyant that

bathrooms and rich, warm-hued

you can even sit on it reading

bedrooms as well as delightful

a newspaper – and splashing

vistas which look out over the

about in one of the three lovely

rippling waters beyond.

19

CROwne Plaza ReSORT PeTRa 00 962 3 215 6266

knowledgeable hotel guide, then

if yOu OnLy dO OnE tHinG

relax with a swim in the pool and a

Make sure your camera is charged

set or two on the tennis court.

– you’ll kick yourself if you run out of batteries half way around

When it comes to getting to

by niGHt

picture-perfect Petra.

grips with Petra, there is no more

You can enjoy dinner in the Olive

convenient place to stay than

Tree buffet restaurant where

this resort. It sits just next to the

myriad cuisines are offered or, for

The suites here all have unbeatable

entrance to the Siq, the narrow

something really special, have a

mountain views, and if you’re with

passageway through sheer rock

banquet arranged in the desert

a big group you can link up other

face which leads you out to the city

with a group of family or friends,

bedrooms and suites to create a

itself. With the Petra mountains

out under the night sky. There’s

big, shareable family area.

directly behind you, this resort is

also a fantastic ‘Cave Bar’ just

fabulously atmospheric.

round the corner from the hotel, where you can sit and enjoy a

by dAy Visit the charms of Petra with a 20

thirst-quenching drink in a lounge carved out of the mountainside.

ROOM WitH A viEW

‘When it comes to getting to grips with Petra, there is no more convenient place to stay than the Crowne Plaza’

JORDAN

CROwne Plaza JORdan dead Sea ReSORT & SPa OpEn OCtObER 2011

This soon-to-open resort has the best possible location in Jordan.

It’s on a lovely stretch of Dead Sea beachfront, ringed with mountains, and offers easy access to the country’s best and biggest attractions, including Petra, Amman, Jerash and the hot springs at Hammamat Ma’in. This means you can enjoy the perfect holiday combination of plenty of relaxation, sunshine, and lots of eye-opening cultural pursuits too.

By day Enjoy a wonderful breakfast by the beach then take a ten kilometre trip through attractive countryside to Wadi Al Mujib, where you can go walking and end up at the beautiful, impressive waterfalls.

By night There will be plenty of grand dinner options at this resort – whether you’re in the mood for Lebanese mezze and grills, Mexican fajitas and burritos or delicious fresh seafood. if you only do one thing Treat yourself to a day of chilling out at the Thalgo Spa. where you’ll find a heated beach pool, a Dead Sea saltwater pool and no fewer than 30 treatments rooms.

Room with a view Whichever suite you plump for – Executive, Royal or even Presidential – you’ll love the high levels of service and fantastic vistas your room affords you.

21

LEBANON

InTeRCOnTInenTal MzaaR lebanOn MOunTaIn ReSORT & SPa 00 961 9 340 100

outstanding fondue (watch out for the fontina cheese version). Then there’s classic French brasserie Les Airelles, Tuscan-style eatery La Tavola (try its delicious wood-fired pizzas) and the Al Hor tent, where

Up in the snowy heights of Mount

local specialities made with local

Lebanon, this welcoming resort

ingredients are lovingly prepared,

is home to 360 degree vistas, a

and where the mezze continues to

national favourite of a spa (Les

reign supreme.

Thermes du Mzaar) and air so fresh you’ll feel like your lungs are getting a spring clean.

if you only do one thing Pay a flying visit to Baalbek, an immaculately-preserved Roman

By day

site with ancient temples built two

Visit the Jeita Grotto, go rafting,

millenia ago. It’s only an hour’s

take a snowmobile out for a ride,

drive away from the resort, and is

climb, hike, bike and – of course –

one of the major cultural highlights

enjoy the brilliant skiing.

of the country.

By night

Room with a view

This resort is rightfully proud of its

Designed with the fresh grace of

dinners. When you’ve worked up

an Alpine chalet, the suites at this

an appetite on the slopes, you’ll

resort boast fantastic views over

love the terrace at Le Refuge,

the mountains. A beautiful sight to

where you can keep warm with

wake up to.

22

OMAN

CROwne Plaza ReSORT SalalaH

by nIgHT Join the locals who visit the resort

00968 23 235333

in the evening to enjoy beachside

Oman has many delights to offer,

Restaurant, classic Arabic dishes

but none quite as intriguing as

at Darbat or a relaxed snack at the

Salalah, a green region which is

Al-Khareef pub.

buffets at the Dolphin Beach

home to the special Crowne Plaza Resort. This place is known for its

If yOu Only dO One THIng

high quality accommodation, its

Pick up some of the local

stretch of Indian Ocean coastline

frankincense, which grows on trees

and private beach and a super-fun

around the resort and is a great

par three golf course – the only

gift to take back home – as are the

green course in the country. There

traditional Omani crafts on sale at

are also four huge pools and over

the nearby Luban Souk.

40 acres of pristine, landscaped garden to relax in.

ROOM wITH a vIew In addition to offering fine vistas,

by day

the smart, well-appointed junior

Mix and mingle with other families

suites here have plenty of space,

over a game of beach volleyball, go

Arabian-style decor and two

scuba diving with the international

bedrooms, as well as a dining room

dive centre, play a game of tennis

and a large balcony where you can

or squash or head out on the placid

entertain family and friends as you

waters in a pedalo or kayak.

soak up the sights.

23

KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

HOlIday Inn ReSORT Half MOOn bay

reward your exertions with an

if you only do one thing

ice cream from the Blue Lagoon

Go sandbiking in the dunes

Cafe. Meanwhile, if you’re visiting

near the resort, an invigorating,

with your family, your kids can

adrenaline-fuelled way to spend a

Tranquility and high levels of

enjoy clown shows, competitions,

sunny morning.

service are the key themes at the

swings, slides and use of their

Holiday Inn Resort Half Moon Bay.

own dedicated swimming pools.

The bay itself is beautiful, curving

And, for the shopaholics among

Choose a lovely individual villa,

round symmetrically and forming

your group, the Al Rashid Mall is a

which comes with its own large

a picture perfect private beach:

must-visit – just a short trip away,

kitchen and dining area, so you can

whether you’re swimming in the

it’s the place to shop and stock up

prepare food at home and enjoy it

Gulf or in one of the three pools,

on designer brands.

with friends and family in a relaxed

00 966 3 896 3333

you’re guaranteed good weather and a glorious view.

setting. You’ll also have a fantastic By night The resort offers regular outdoor

By day

barbecues with deliciously fresh

Enjoy the wide spread of

grilled food, as well as a great

watersports – everything from jet

nightly buffet at the Blue Beach

skis to windsurfing are on offer –

Restaurant. And as kids eat free

play a game of tennis and join in

you won’t mind when they’re fussy

with some basketball, then

with their food.

24

Room with a view

view over the hotel’s terrace.

‘If you’re visiting with your family, your kids can enjoy clown shows, competitions, swings, slides and use of their own dedicated pools’