BTME - Feb 2022

MIDDLE EAST

FEBRUARY 2022

businesstraveller.com

A DREAM OF ALULA

INDIAN OCEAN BLISS

SMART TRAVELLER

PLUS

Photographer celebrates Saudi's ancient landscape in new book

From the Maldives to Mauritius to Mozambique, heaven awaits

With First Class travel taking off, we take a look at the options

Tried and Tested • Air Miles • Electric cars

WORLD’S COOLEST WINTER

Discover destination UAE

UAE DHS12 OMAN RO1.30 BAHRAIN BD1.30 SAUDI ARABIA SR12 KUWAIT KD1

CONTENTS

REGULARS 06

FEATURES

UPFRONT

Airline, hotel and travel news from the region and around the world 18

POSTCARD

The Conservatorium Hotel unveils the Bastiaan Woudt Suite 22

AIR MILES

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Jean-Francois Brun, GM at the new 25hours Hotel One Central, invites you to stay, work and play 40

RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER

Sustainability initiatives from airlines, hotels and travel providers 47

OPINION

Airline consultant and executive coach Richard Tams says business travel is not dying, it’s just changing 48

A new photography book showcases Saudi’s ancient landscape 42 SUNSEEKERS IN THE INDIAN OCEAN

10 BURNING QUESTIONS ABOUT ELECTRIC CARS 50

ELEVATOR PITCH

4 HOURS IN... HAMMERSMITH

Riverside entertainment and dining in this West London district

ON THE COVER

20 A DREAM OF ALUL A

Our top picks for a getaway-from-it-all break

British actor Nathaniel Parker reveals his destination wishlist

COVER IMAGE: DUBAI TOURISM

FEBRUARY 2022

Plus a round-up of some of the latest EVs and PHEVs to look out for 54 VOLVO GOES ELECTRIC IN THE MIDDLE EAST

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WORLD’S COOLEST WINTER

The UAE’s latest campaign unearths opportunities to explore the nation’s seven emirates for work or leisure

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Introducing the fully electric XC40 BEV compact SUV 56 WHICH AIRLINES HAVE FIRST CL ASS?

Explore the options for upfront travel

THE REPORT

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TRIED & TESTED FLIGHTS, HOTELS, R E S TAU R A N T S 60 Singapore Airlines B777-300ER Business Class (VTL flight) Frankfurt-Singapore 62 The Langham Sydney 63 JW Marriott Grosvenor House London

65 Hyatt Centric Ginza Tokyo

64 Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong

66 Mandarin Oriental, New York

42 50 FEBRUARY 2022

WELCOME

T

he travel industry is slowly, but surely, rebounding, with the latest UNWTO figures revealing global tourism picked up four per cent in 2021 compared to 2020.

It’s a small uptick – from 400 million to 415 million international tourist arrivals – and it’s still 72 per cent down on 2019 figures, but it is certainly a move in the right direction.

There are many glimmers of hope, with a rise in vaccination rates and the easing of travel restrictions due to increased cross-border coordination and protocols all helping to release pent-up demand.

According to the latest UNWTO Panel of Experts, most tourism professionals (61 per cent) see better prospects for 2022, with 58 per cent expecting a rebound this year.

Turning the spotlight on the business travel sector and the GBTA BTI Outlook – Annual Global Report and Forecast released in November predicts global expenditures to have rebound 14 per cent year-on-year to US$754 billion in 2021.

The report says business travel recovery has been “extremely divergent, depending on each individual country’s containment of [COVID-19] outbreaks, their position of national travel policy and the relative dependence on international business travel”.

Against this backdrop, North America led business travel recovery in 2021 with activity up 27 per cent. The Middle East and Africa (MEA), along with Latin America and Asia Pacific, were not far behind with between 15 and 20 per cent growth posted last year.

Sentiment for ongoing recovery is relatively upbeat, with 52 per cent of global CFOs and other executives interviewed by the GBTA expecting business travel spend to return to 2019 levels as early as this year. Unsurprisingly, most expected domestic travel frequency to outpace international travel frequency – for now.

Destinations globally are capitalising on the domestic tourism trend forced by the pandemic, and it is paying dividends, encouraging travellers to look close to home for opportunities to conduct business, staycation, or mix the two.

The UAE’s ‘World’s Coolest Winter’ campaign, championed in this month’s issue, highlights some of the destination’s hidden gems across seven diverse emirates.

From a weekend break to a team-building event to a new place to work, the UAE offers an eclectic mix of venues, terrains and experiences, with an increasing focus on the great outdoors, eco-tourism, adventure and culture.

For business executives, the campaign is a call to be creative and get out of the boardroom – for the mountains, beach and deserts await. Enjoy!

Gemma Greenwood, Editor

THIS ISSUE’S PICKS

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Business Traveller Middle East is jointly published

by Motivate Media Group and Panacea Media Ltd M OT I VAT E M E D I A GRO UP

Editor-in-Chief Obaid Humaid Al Tayer Managing Partner and Group Editor Ian Fairservice Editor Gemma Greenwood Art Director Clarkwin Cruz Editorial Co-ordinator Londresa Flores Contributors Tom Otley, Hannah Brandler, Nat Barnes, Sabine Galas, Tamsin Cocks, Rob Goss, Allyson Portee General Manager – Production S Sunil Kumar Assistant Production Manager Binu Purandaran Production Supervisor Venita Pinto Chief Commercial Officer Anthony Milne Group Director Andrew Wingrove Group Sales Manager Chaitali Khimji PAN ACE A M E D I A LT D

Managing Director Julian Gregory Associate Publisher Middle East Rania Apthorpe Global Editor-in-Chief Tom Otley b us i n e s strave l l e r. c o m

A DREAM OF ALULA Famous fashion photographer captures Saudi’s anicent landscape (Page 20)

WORLD’S COOLEST WINTER UAE campaign unveils destination gems to discover (Page 24)

ELECTRIC CARS Your questions answered and five EVs and PHEVs to watch out for this year (Page 50)

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FEBRUARY 2022

UPFRONT

GLOBAL TOURISM GROWS IN 2021, BUT SEVERELY LAGS BEHIND PRE PANDEMIC LEVELS: UNWTO GLOBAL TOURISM EXPERIENCED

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a four per cent upturn in 2021 compared to 2020, with 415 million international tourist arrivals (overnight visitors) versus 400 million.

However, this figure was 72 per cent below the pre-pandemic year of 2019, according to preliminary estimates by the UNWTO. This follows on from 2020, the worst year on record for tourism, when international arrivals decreased by 73 per cent.

The first 2022 issue of the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer indicates that rising rates of vaccination, combined with the easing of travel restrictions due to increased cross-border coordination and protocols, have all helped release pent-up demand.

International tourism rebounded moderately during the second half of 2021, with international arrivals down 62 per cent in both the third and fourth quarters compared to pre-pandemic levels. According to limited data, international arrivals in December were 65 per cent below 2019 levels. The full impact of the Omicron variant and surge in COVID-19 cases is yet to be seen, said UNWTO. Slow and uneven recovery The pace of recovery remains slow and uneven across world FEBRUARY 2022

regions due to varying degrees of mobility restrictions, vaccination rates and traveller confidence.

Europe and the Americas recorded the strongest results in 2021 compared to 2020 (+19 per cent and +17 per cent respectively), but still both 63 per cent below pre-pandemic levels.

Africa saw a 12 per cent increase in arrivals in 2021 compared to 2020, though this is still 74 per cent below 2019.

Middle East arrivals declined 24 per cent versus 2020 and 79 per cent over 2019.

Asia and the Pacific arrivals were still 65 per cent below 2020 levels and 94 per cent when compared to pre-pandemic values as many destinations remained closed to non-essential travel.

Economic contribution The economic contribution of tourism in 2021 (measured in tourism direct gross domestic product) is estimated at US$1.9 trillion, above the US$1.6 trillion in 2020, but still well below the prepandemic value of US$3.5 trillion.

Export revenues from international tourism could exceed US$700 billion in 2021, a small improvement over 2020 due to higher spending per trip, but less than half the US$1.7 trillion recorded in 2019.

Average receipts per arrival are estimated to reach US$1,500 in 2021, up from US$1,300 in 2020. This is due to large pentup savings and longer lengths of stay, as well as higher transport and accommodation prices.

Outlook for 2022 According to the latest UNWTO Panel of Experts, 61 per cent of tourism professionals see better prospects for 2022. While 58 per cent expect a rebound in 2022, mostly during Q3, 42 per cent point to a potential rebound only in 2023. The majority of experts (64 per cent) now expect international arrivals to return to 2019 levels in 2024 or later. The UNWTO Confidence Index shows a slight decline in January-April 2022. A rapid and more widespread vaccination roll-out, followed by a major lifting of travel restrictions, and more coordination and clearer information on travel protocols, are the main factors identified by experts for the effective recovery of international tourism.

UNWTO scenarios indicate international arrivals could grow by between 30 per cent and 78 per cent compared to 2021, although this is still 50 to 63 per cent below pre-pandemic levels.

UNWTO DATA AT A GLANCE Global tourism 2021 415 million international tourist arrivals Up four per cent on 2021 Down 72 per cent on 2019 US$1.9 trillion economic contribution Above the US$1.6 trillion in 2020 Below the US$ 3.5 trillion in 2019 Middle East tourism 2021 Arrivals down 24 per cent on 2020 and 79 per cent on 2019.

The outlook 64 per cent of tourism professionals expect international arrivals to return to 2019 levels by 2024 or later

UPFRONT

SAUDI TO SHOWCASE FIRST PORSCHE HOTEL

Eric Cantona launches new football travel brand

SAUDI ARABIA will be the

captain of Manchester United, is launching a travel brand in partnership with DHARMA, an Abu Dhabi-based start-up that builds travel brands for the passion economy. “Our idea was to create the most passionate football trips on earth, with charisma and soul. Everything today is optimised for price – we wanted to optimise for passion,” said Cantona.

Looking FC (lookingfc.com) features four-day trips uniquely crafted by Cantona himself that take guests on an immersive sporting pilgrimage to explore global football cities through the lens of the world’s most vibrant clubs and their loyal fans.

launch destination for the new Steigenberger Porsche Design Hotels brand.

Deutsche Hospitality and the Porsche Design Group are joining forces to create the innovative hotel concept, which will “bring together design, technology and lifestyle at the very highest level”.

The plan is to open least 15 hotels in major cities globally, including London, Singapore, Dubai and Shanghai. Marcus Bernhardt, CEO of Steigenberger Hotels AG/ Deutsche Hospitality, said: “Our joint goal is to establish a new hotel product for a global target

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ERIC CANTONA, the sporting legend and former

group, which seeks uniqueness and has the highest aspirations regarding quality.” No further details on the KSA property have been revealed to date.

DID YOU KNOW?

Vegan meals are one of the most commonly requested special meals onboard Emirates flights and every January, the airline witnesses an increase in demand for plant-based meals. This is because of Veganuary – a global movement to encourage a vegan diet that runs in January every year. In 2021, Emirates served up to 10 per cent more vegan meals on its flights in January than other months and 2022 looks to follow the same trend, says the airline. Overall, Emirates served more than 113,000 vegan meals during 2021.

Expo visits hit 10 million

EXPO 2020 DUBAI’S visit numbers crossed the 10-million-mark in mid-January, according to the event’s organisers. From October 1, 2021, to January 18, 2022, the event recorded 10,188,769 visits, while virtual visits hit more than 65 million. Numbers in January were boosted by Global Goals Week, the first one to be held outside of New York, and a starstudded K-pop concert.

FEBRUARY 2022

DATE FOR THE DIARY Reed Exhibitions (RX), the organiser of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), has announced that this year’s four-day event will now open on Monday May 9, 2022 and close on Thursday May 12, 2022, to fall in line with the UAE’s new Monday-to-Friday working week. Taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the revised dates are also expected to complement international markets, the majority of which also follow the Monday-to-Friday working week.

A D V E R T I S E M E N T F E AT U R E

Ascott Rafal Olaya Riyadh Luxury living for the discerning traveller

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s the capital and primary financial hub of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh attracts business travellers and leisure seekers with a wealth of opportunities. Catering to the lifestyle needs of these executives and elite travellers, the award-wining Ascott Rafal Olaya Riyadh presents a niche offering in the city’s serviced apartment sector.

It commands a prestigious location, amid two of the city’s tallest skyscrapers, just a five-minute drive from the renowned King Abdullah Financial District, and offers luxurious studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments with separate living and dining areas, a fully functional kitchenette and breathtaking views of the city.

A home for both short- and longstay guests travelling for business or leisure, Ascott Rafal Olaya features comprehensive facilities, with separate male and female amenities part of the offering. These include a stunning swimming pool and gymnasium on the 27th floor, as well as another swimming pool and gymnasium, children’s play area, residents' lounge, sauna and steam room and conference facilities. Those looking to enjoy a delicious fine-dining experience with family and friends are welcomed at two of the city’s famous restaurants, located on the ground floor of the property – Opaline and Don Puro.

FROM TOP: Accommodation is homely and spacious; The expansive outdoor swimming pool on the 2nd floor; Opaline

As part of Ascott’s brand initiative to ensure the confidence and safety of its guests during the pandemic, the property participates in the ‘Ascott Cares’ programme and offers complimentary telecounselling services in partnership with International SOS. The property was also named ‘Saudi Arabia’s Leading Serviced Apartment 2021’ at the renowned World Travel Awards.

With the city currently bustling with entertainment options as part of the Riyadh Season festival, the property is inviting residents to experience the thrill of this event by offering a 20 per cent discount on direct bookings made at discoverasr.com.

Ascott Rafal Olaya Riyadh is managed

by The Ascott Limited, a member of CapitaLand Investment. It is one of the leading international lodging owneroperators with properties across Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its portfolio of serviced apartment, co-living and hotel brands includes Ascott The Residence, The Crest Collection, Somerset, Quest, Citadines, lyf, Préférence, Vertu, Harris, Citadines Connect, Fox, Yello, Fox Lite and POP!.

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UPFRONT

Marriott to open two luxury hotels in Saudi’s Diriyah Gate MARRIOT T HAS SIGNED an agreement with Diriyah Gate Development Authority to open two luxury hotels as part of the Diriyah

Project in Saudi Arabia. The Ritz-Carlton and The Luxury Collection properties will be located around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif, set to become one of the world’s most forthright cultural and heritage cities. Slated to open in 2025, The Ritz-Carlton, Diriyah, Riyadh will feature 195 rooms and suites, a specialty restaurant, an all-day dining venue, meeting rooms, an outdoor pool and a fitness centre.

Ritz Kids, the brand’s signature kids’ club and programming are part of the vision, as are a signature spa and immersive guest programmes.

The Luxury Collection in Diriyah, Riyadh (pictured), situated in the Samhan district, will open this year, offering 141 guestrooms, including 27 suites. Two signature restaurants, an all-day-dining restaurant, a coffee and juice bar, fitness centre, pool and spa, plus meeting and event facilities, are all planned.

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JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh opening soon SITUATED ON KING FAHAD ROAD, five minutes from King

Abdullah Financial District, JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh will occupy one of the city’s most desirable addresses when it opens this quarter. It will also be one of the tallest properties in the city, spanning 66 floors, with 349 rooms and suites and dining outlets including the renowned JW Steakhouse.

Saudi Arabia’s first Rixos hotel planned for Jeddah ACCOR HAS PARTNERED with Dur

Hospitality to operate Saudi Arabia’s first Rixos-branded property.

The Rixos Obhur Jeddah will involve the upgrade and restyle of the current Makarem Annakheel Village, transforming it into luxury resort featuring a water park, swimming pools, as well as villas with private pools.

It will be the first luxurious integrated resort in Jeddah, meeting increasing demand for this type of destination offering in the city.

Located in Obhur Bay on the Red Sea, Rixos Obhur Jeddah will feature a private beach and 247 residential units, including 174 rooms and 73 villas, plus a Club Prive lounge, a fine-dining restaurant, a lounge bar, and two specialty beach restaurants. A central ballroom will cater to special events, complemented by meeting rooms.

Leisure facilities will include a fitness club, a male and female spa, clubs for kids and teens, and several swimming pools. Beaches, a seaport, and a plaza with ocean views will also be part of the development.

THE RITZ-CARLTON AMMAN SET TO OPEN IN MAY The Ritz-Carlton Amman Hotel is preparing to open its doors in May 2022.

Located in a 20-storey tower in the city’s prestigious 5th Circle district, the property will feature 192 rooms and suites, eight dining destinations, 1,250-square-metres of event space, and an ESPA Spa.

FEBRUARY 2022

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FOR ENQUIRIES: +971 4 427 3000 | sales@motivate.ae

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UPFRONT

Uber’s Lost & Found Index – what UAE passengers left behind in 2021 UBER HAS REVEALED its

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fifth annual Lost & Found Index revealing what UAE riders left behind during their 2021 trips.

It also highlights the times and days when riders are most forgetful. Unsurprisingly, phones and cameras were the most forgotten items in the UAE, closely followed by other usual suspects such as wallets, bags, and keys.

New to the list, however, books took over vapes as the eighth most commonly lost item, and extremely strange for the UAE, there was an increase in the number of people leaving behind an umbrella.

It seems that riders start to lose focus near the end of the year as December and January were the most forgetful months last year. Riders are also most forgetful between 8am and 9am on Thursdays and Fridays.

Here is Uber’s full 2021 Lost & Found Index, along with easy instructions on how riders can retrieve lost items.

10 most commonly forgotten items in the UAE: 1. Phone/camera 2. Wallet/purse 3. Backpack/bag/folders/ box/luggage 4. Keys 5. Glasses 6. Clothing 7. Headphones/speaker 8. Books 9. ID/License 10. Jewellery/watch/make-up Most forgetful dates in 2021 1. Saturday January 2 2. Monday December 14 3. November 29 4. Friday December 27 5. Sunday March 8 Most forgetful times of day 1. 9am 2. 1pm 3. 8am Most forgetful days of the week 1. Thursday 2. Fridays Most forgetful city in UAE Dubai

How to retrieve lost belongings

If you do happen to forget a belonging in an Uber, don’t panic! The best way to retrieve a lost item is to call the driver - but if you’ve left your phone behind, you can log in to your account on a computer.

Here’s what to do: ■ Tap ‘Your Trips’ and select the trip where you left something ■ Scroll down and tap ‘Find lost item’.

■ Tap ‘Contact driver about a lost item’.

■ Scroll down and enter the phone number you would like to be contacted at. Tap ‘submit’.

■ If you lost your personal phone, enter a friend’s phone number instead (you can do this by logging into your account on a computer, or using a friend’s phone).

■ Your phone will ring and connect you directly with your driver’s mobile number.

■ If your driver picks up and confirms that your item has been found, coordinate a mutually convenient time and place to meet for its return to you.

■ If your driver doesn’t pick up, leave a detailed voicemail describing your item and the best way to contact you.

WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH

The Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival (RAKFAF) returns this month, celebrating its 10th edition. Themed ‘The Journey’, the event, which kicks off on February 4 at 8.30pm and runs until March 31, will share artist interpretations of what this theme means to them in terms of ancestry, migration, national identity and personal growth. The historic Al Jazirah Al Hamra pearling village plays host to the festival for the third year running, while satellite exhibition sites will pop up across some of the emirate’s most iconic locations including the public viewing deck at the UAE’s highest peak, Jebel Jais and the Open Park on Al Marjan Island. The free-to-attend outdoor exhibition of art, photography and sculpture will present a diverse collection of artworks from more than 150 artists representing 45 countries, as well as film screenings, workshops and guided tours. rakfinearts.ae FEBRUARY 2022

Exclusive paintings, sculptures, photography and timepieces from award-winning international artists.

Painting by Fatima Sherjan

Photograph by Yousif Alharmoodi

The Arabian Falcon Navigator Clock – Limited Edition by David Galbraith

UPFRONT

The great winter escape Travellers from the UAE are hoping to head abroad this winter to make up for a lack of summer holidays over the past two years. Furthermore, most would like to go away with their wider family to make up for time apart, according to research from travel loyalty programme Marriott Bonvoy. The figures reveal:

■ 83 per cent want to go on a winter

holiday this year, and for 19 per cent, this would be the first time

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■ 87 per cent say they would like to

travel to a different country ■ Just 24 per cent of those planning to go away say they usually go on a winter holiday ■ 32 per cent say they plan to go away because they couldn’t over the summer ■ 36 per cent are want to ‘binge’ on holidays to make up for not going away during the pandemic

KEMPINSKI TO MANAGE WORLD’S FIRST FLOATING SEA PALACE RESORT IN DUBAI TUCKED AWAY ON BANG KRACHAO,

a protected jungle-clad island on the Chao Praya River, known locally as the ‘Green Lung’ of Bangkok, Thailand, is the new RAKxa Fully Integrative Wellness & Medical Retreat. Here, advanced medical treatments, revered holistic therapies and renowned Thai hospitality come together in a worldclass medical destination. RAKxa’s unique concept curates personalised one-to-14-day programmes based on real results using cutting-edge technology.

■ 87 per cent are hoping to go away

with their wider family, most to make up for time apart ■ Turkey (9 per cent), Egypt (eight per cent) and the Maldives (7 per cent) are the key destinations travellers from the UAE would like to head to this winter.

The research is taken from Marriott Bonvoy’s Joy of Travel report, conducted amongst 14,000 consumers in Europe and the Middle East.

The RAKxa experience, which begins at home and carries on long after you leave, involves certified medical doctors and holistic therapists prescribing a precise treatment plan based on one of the 10 packages available.

Programmes span all areas of health and wellness such as Facial and Body Solution, Gut Health, Immunity Booster, Long Covid, Weight Management, Facial Solution and De-Stress. Completing the wellness journey is a high-tech medical gym with Olympic athlete training equipment, hydrothermal spa facilities, an anti-inflammatory food philosophy, a cleansing tea lounge, and an enticing menu of workshops and activities.

The retreat features just 60 private pool and garden villas and two residences.

WOW VENUE SKY-HIGH BREAKFASTS AT AURA SKYPOOL AURA SKYPOOL, the world’s first and highest 360-degree infinity pool, has launched a ‘Rise & Shine’ menu, available daily between 10am and 11.30am. Suspended 200 metres in the air, diners can experience breakfast in the sky, choosing from the Asian Brunch Bowl, comprising a poached egg, kimchi, avocado and seeded cracker; Granola & Yoghurt Bowl, with mixed berries and fruit; or a Blueberry Acai Bowl.

Guests can also enjoy AURA’s twist on avocado on toast or treat themselves to a Japanese Pancake, oozing caramel and vanilla Chantilly. Beverages include two types of cocktails – the ‘Bloody AURA’ and ‘Cala Mosa’ – or a range of healthy smoothies. AURA SKYPOOL is the place to impress and is definitely Insta-worthy.

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A visual celebration of the UAE’s golden jubilee

DISCOVER 100 PHOTOG RAPHS OF THE UAE SHOT BY PEOPLE ACROSS THE COUNTRY

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UPFRONT

Marriott offers US guests travel insurance

Marriott International has partnered with Allianz Partners to sell insurance plans on its website and iOS version of the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app – the service will launch on the Android version of the app next year. Guests can purchase insurance when they select their hotel in the US, which is added to the total cost of their stay.

London City rebound

London City airport “expects pent-up passenger demand to fuel a surge in growth in 2022”, with more than three quarters of its 2019 routes operating this year.

Business travel is picking up, accounting for 46 per cent of all journeys in October and November 2021, it said.

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Second Curio Collection hotel for Portugal

Hilton has opened its second Curio Collection property in Portugal, and the first in the country’s capital, Lisbon. The 67-room Emerald House Lisbon on Rua das Janelas Verdes is located in a restored building next to the National Museum of Ancient Art and features the A Mesa restaurant, Five O’Clock Bar, three meeting spaces and a fitness centre.

Rosewood makes it Brazil debut

Rosewood Hotels and Resorts has opened its first property in Brazil. Rosewood Sao Paulo, featuring 160 rooms and 100 branded residences, is situated within Cidade Matarazzo, a complex of early 20th century buildings transformed into private residences, high-end stores and entertainment venues.

FEBRUARY 2022

Seven more for Mama

Seven new Mama Shelter properties will open by the end of 2023, with launches in Lisbon, Paris and Dubai due this year. Mama Dubai will offer 197 rooms and 192 apartments in Business Bay.

New Radisson airport hotel

The 471-room Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport has opened its doors offering duplex suites, plus three-bedroom villas with a private pool, separate living area and a dining area with fully equipped kitchen. Business facilities include 11 meeting rooms and a soon-toopen 1,800 sqm auditorium.

GLOBAL NEWS

MO Shenzhen now open

The 178-room Mandarin Oriental Shenzhen has opened on the upper floors of a 79-storey tower in the city’s Futian business district. Facilities include a 78th floor Mandarin Club and eight dining venues including a finedining Cantonese restaurant by Michelin-starred Chef Fei.

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Zuma makes waves in the Maldives

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi has debuted world-renowned contemporary Japanese concept, Zuma. An island bar, robata and sushi counter take centre stage at the restaurant, which has Indian Ocean views.

Luxury North Africa trio for Accor

Accor will open three luxury properties in Morocco this year: the Fairmont La Marina RabatSalé with hotel and riverside residences; the Fairmont Tangier Tazi Palace with 134 guestrooms, two VIP villas and a Royal villa; and Sofitel Agadir Royal Bay Resort, blending French luxury, Kasbah architecture and beachfront style.

Qantas reboots Perth-London route

Qantas will restart its daily non-stop service between Perth and London from March 27. The 14,498km route is the fastest way to travel to Australia from London and is served by the B787 Dreamliner.

FEBRUARY 2022

POSTCARD

AMSTERDAM

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A r tist i n residence The Conservatorium Hotel, described as Amsterdam’s “leading luxury lifestyle palace” for sophisticated travellers, has invited world-renowned art photographer Bastiaan Woudt as its artist in residence. To mark the occasion it has unveiled the ‘Bastiaan Woudt Suite’, an inspiring space where the iconic black-and-white photography for which he is renowned is celebrated. A Royal Duplex Suite spanning 71 square metres has been converted to display his works. With an elegant and contemporary design, natural colours, and dark wooden floors, the suite is an ideal canvas for showcasing Woudt’s photography.

Spread over two floors, guests can observe the works of art and at the same time, enjoy beautiful views of

FEBRUARY 2022

the streets of Amsterdam. With charcoal tones and elegant compositions, Woudt’s work is described as monochrome minimalist: art with a touch of surrealism, yet moving. It plays with the beauty of imperfection and is inspired by photography from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. He combines this theme with modern in-camera methods and postproduction for a contemporary style.

The Conservatorium is located in a heritage building on Museumplein, the cultural heart of Amsterdam, and is known for its long-standing collaborations with local and international artists and art institutions. Guests can book the exclusive Bastiaan Woudt Suite until October 2022.

Visit conservatoriumhotel.com. Gemma Greenwood

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A Dream of AlUla

Famed fashion photographer Gilles Bensimon has released a new book celebrating the diversity of Saudi Arabia’s ancient landscape

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cclaimed photographer Gilles Bensimon has released A Dream of AlUla – a 215page oversized book of original photography that brings to life an 8,000-year-old landscape. Home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra, the book reveals the diversity of this mythical land and little-known geographical wonder.

It’s being pitched as “an expedition through time”, captured through the lens of Bensimon.

The American photographer, who was formerly the International Creative Director of Elle Magazine and has worked with models and celebrities including Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington, Madonna and Elle Macpherson, says: “I will not begin to describe, or even attempt to tell the story of my journey in AlUla. I can only hope that my photographs might open the door to a new dream in your mind: the dream of meeting AlUla.” Published by Rizzoli New York and featuring a foreword by French art historian Diana W. Picasso, A Dream of AlUla retails at US$300 (rizzoliusa.com).

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1. Pre-Arabic inscriptions found at Jabal Ikmah 2. The oasis of AlUla 3. UNESCO Heritage Site Hegra at night 4. AlUla was home to ancient civilisations 5. Local Saudi Arabian men and camels in the AlUla desert 6. Red sandstone natural formations and Jabal Alfil (Elephant Rock) 7. Gilles Bensimon captures AlUla from a new perspective 8. Nabatean rock formations FEBRUARY 2022

AIR MILES

AIR MILES WITH

Nathaniel Parker

What would you do if you weren’t an actor?

Probably something sports related.

WORDS HANNAH BRANDLER

What are your dream destinations?

I have never been to the remote Pacific Islands or South America. One day…

Nathaniel Parker is a screen and stage actor. He recently portrayed Sir Robert de Thibouville in Ridley Scott’s film The Last Duel, soon to be released on DVD and on-demand.

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hat attracted you to the acting profession?

Until the age of nine I wanted to be all the things I had seen on film or TV: a cowboy (The Virginian), train driver (Casey Jones), Broadway star (Fred Astaire), an astronaut (the news) or a doctor (my mum).

But then I realised there was a single job where I could be all those things.

Which movie/theatre production has left a lasting impression?

So many, but I think productions of Hilary Mantel’s novels about Thomas Cromwell (Wolf Hall, Bring Up The Bodies, The Mirror and The Light), where I have been lucky enough to play Henry VIII, were pretty ground-breaking for me. I met the director Jeremy Herrin and, put simply, he made me a better actor.

In which locations have you filmed?

All over the world; I have been exceedingly lucky. Through most of Europe, Jamaica, Los Angeles, New York, South Africa, Australia.

Although my first film was in a disused hospital in Kent (UK)!

Which role has required the most extensive research?

Inspector Lynley in The Inspector Lynley Mysteries surprisingly took quite a lot of research – going around with the police and seeing how they work. Gabriel Oak in Far From The Madding Crowd gave me the chance to shear sheep and thatch, which was very challenging.

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Do you prefer film, TV or theatre?

That’s an impossible question to answer. The technique is different for all, but the basic challenge is the same. Belief. If I don’t believe what I am doing, no one else will. Standing on a stage with a huge audience feels like what I was born to do, but the adrenaline is equally there for a short film shot on a shoestring or a big Hollywood blockbuster once you hear “action!”

What was it like filming during the pandemic?

Very expensive. I experienced it as an actor and as a producer. For the latter it added around 15-20 per cent to our budget with testing costs. As an actor the limitations are every day, and frustrating. At the beginning of lockdown, I was shooting Ridley Scott’s The Last Duel and so I would be walking around set in my 1350s costume, hair and make-up while wearing a clear shield. We are tested every day in the theatre. The chance to work again feels so precious.

Your most rewarding travel experience?

Just about every time I have been on holiday with my family.

And most challenging?

It was for Into Thin Air: Death on Everest – a film about climbing Mount Everest. We actually shot it in the Alps. At nights the temperature reached -25 degrees celsius.

Taking my clothes off 13,000 feet up with a sheer drop of 3,000 feet just behind me, that was pretty challenging. Wouldn’t have missed it for the world.

Where did you last travel to?

The Greek Island of Kea with my wife.

What’s your favourite destination?

At the moment, Puglia. As my wife is a Greece fan and I am an Italian fan, we feel it to be the perfect mixture.

What’s your indispensable travel gadget?

Now, of course, it’s a phone, but I’m a terrible sucker for gadgets. I can quite happily spend the first part of any journey reading the instructions for a new piece of kit I bought at the airport.

What’s your in-flight entertainment pick?

Well, I don’t think there has ever been a movie I haven’t cried at on the plane. Even Lara Croft! Comedies are usually my choice on planes – I like to laugh and cry at the same time!

Into Thin Air: Death on Everest was shot in the Alps

E L E VATO R P I TC H

The elevator pitch

Business Traveller gives Jean-Francois Brun, General Manager at the new 25hours Hotel One Central, five minutes to pitch his property to prospective guests

Launched on December 15, 2021, the 25hours Hotel One Central is the very first 25hours hotel to open in the Middle East, offering 434 rooms and suites and flexible events and co-working spaces. Relaxed, fun and packed full of things to do, guests can experience the ancient traditions of the Bedouins brought back to a modern life. A fun and vibrant property with a wonderfully welcoming aura, it’s a real place, intended for real people to come as they are.

The hotel is just a stone’s throw from business hotspots such as Dubai International Financial Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road and Dubai World Trade Centre and also overlooks the stunning Museum of the Future, so it’s the perfect spot for business travellers. Dubai International is also just 15 minutes by road and if you are travelling with your family, Dubai’s amazing beaches are a short drive away.

Our take on co-working is unique, with inviting spaces designed to encourage a community feel,

enabling local people to connect with travellers. An open pantry and coffee bar are available at the gallery on the first floor along with several meeting and experiential rooms. These openplan spaces feature modern tech, high ceilings and huge windows so guests can enjoy great views while they work hard, or hardly work at all. A paint and pottery studio and podcast recording room add another dimension to our offering in true 25hours style. They are perfect for team activities or for those looking for a fun break from work.

As the famous saying goes, “all work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy”, so we offer business travellers epic culinary and nocturnal adventures to help them wind down. Our venues are great for after-work drinks, hosting clients or for use as event spaces.

For dining, there’s Tandoor Tina, combining British and North Indian cuisines; Nomad Day Bar by Dubaibased cult coffee roasters, Nightjar; and the super popular Berlin import,

It’s a real place, intended for real people to come as they are

TOP: Jean-Francois Brun BOTTOM FROM LEFT: A Farmstay room; The Gallery coworking space

Monkey Bar. Tandoor Tina also offers ‘Tina’s Express Lunch’ every Monday to Friday from 12 noon to 3pm, priced just AED 85 (US$23) per person, so it’s a convenient and valuefor-money business lunch option.

Our spa, The Extra Hour, is dedicated to ‘you time’, with treatments ranging from quick 25-minute fixes to indulgent full-body experiences. The 6th floor is home to the rooftop pool and Monkey Pool Bar. Here you can relax poolside, sip cocktails and take in Museum of the Future views. We also have a ladies’ salon by renowned celebrity hairdresser Wassim Steve and Dubai’s first outdoor mixed-gender sauna and an indoor and outdoor gym inspired by the vibes of Venice Beach.

If you’re into cycling, grab a complimentary Schindelhauer Bike, available from the lobby or in all Artist Village suites, and take a spin around the local neighbourhood and parklands. If you fancy heading further afield, you can explore the area in a MINI Cooper, with a free fourhour test drive available.

For guests staying in Dubai for more than a few days or weeks, but not long enough to commit to renting an apartment, long-stay packages start from AED 12,000 ($3,267) per month and include benefits such as complimentary meeting room access once a month for half-day use, complimentary access to co-working spaces with tea and filtered coffee, a complimentary driving experience with MINI Cooper twice monthly, a 25 per cent discount on F&B, laundry and spa, and much more.”

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WORLD’S COOLEST WINTER

As the UAE relaunches its campaign to promote the country ’s diverse tourism offering, Business Traveller rounds up don’t-miss destination highlights

WORDS GEMMA GREENWOOD

D E S T I N AT I O N S

“Winter brings great moments and experiences. Like everything else in the UAE, we aim to make every winter the best in the world” His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai

Stargazing at Hatta, Dubai

DUBAI TOURISM

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he UAE is a nation of vast contrasts, with each individual emirate a diverse and multi-faceted destination in its own right. Imagine, then, if you were to take a winter trip of a lifetime and visit all seven?

That’s the wish of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who recently launched the second edition of the World’s Coolest Winter campaign.

Rolled out in collaboration with federal entities and local tourism departments, this season’s campaign promotes the UAE as one destination.

It primarily targets the domestic market, encouraging travel from emirate to emirate, but at the same time, demonstrates to a global audience just how much the country has to offer.

As Sheikh Mohammed tweeted: “The seven emirates have rich history, geography, nature, urban architecture, and community. The UAE’s archaeological sites, culture centres, historical landmarks, and nature reserves, offer visitors a holistic experience.”

Given its broad appeal, coupled with its status as a regional hub for business and trade, the UAE is on track to attract more than 31 million tourists annually by 2025, according to global data website Statista, with the country’s travel and tourism sector set to contribute AED280.6 billion (US$76.41 billion) to GDP by 2028.

While the country is currently well-known for its classic city, beach and desert offering, arguably led by Dubai, which has grabbed global headlines for years with its seven-star hotels, mega resorts and much more, discerning visitors are increasingly attracted to the UAE’s back-tonature experiences, spanning: ecological and sustainable tourism, offering nature reserves, oases, mountains, beaches and islands; desert tourism, including safari trips, sand boarding, and oases among rolling sand dunes; beach tourism, including options for water sports and free diving; and mountain tourism, including hiking activities, mountain biking, rock climbing and canyoning.

There is also a burgeoning adventure tourism scene, which includes deep-sea diving, parachute jumping, paragliding and many other adrenalin-fueled and challenging sports.

The country’s cultural and heritage offering is just as dense and encompasses historical and heritage sites and various museums, while tourism generated by major festivals and celebrations is on the rise.

For corporate groups/MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions), the UAE offers plenty of world-class venues and attractions for business events with a difference. It’s an all-year-round destination for MICE, but if it’s inspirational outdoor team-building events you are looking for, a winter trip is ideal, given the mild weather.

Here, we round-up some of the coolest places and attractions to visit in the UAE this winter.

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air-conditioned indoor theme park, brings all the legendary characters from this famous studio to life. Meet Superman, catch up with Batman or Wonder Woman, or be entertained

by Bugs Bunny, Scooby-Doo, Fred Flintstone and more, all within an impressive 1.65-million-square-foot theme park boasting 29 state-of-theart rides, interactive family-friendly attractions, upbeat live entertainment, a range of dining options to suit all tastes, and exclusive shopping outlets.

ABU DHABI FOR ADVENTURE… Clymb™ is home to the world’s biggest indoor skydiving flight chamber and the world’s tallest indoor climbing wall, both under one roof.

Housed in a geometrically designed building, this fully indoor facility features a flight chamber spanning 10 metres wide and 25 metres high.

Whether you’re a first-time ‘flyer’ as young as three years old, or an expert skydiver, Clymb™ Abu Dhabi’s flight instructors ensure a fun and safe experience suitable for adventurers of all ages.

Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, the world’s biggest and fully FEBRUARY 2022

COCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Louvre Abu Dhabi; Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi; Clymb™

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park, tells the marque’s story with passion, showcasing more than 20 exhilarating and educational rides and attractions, including the world’s fastest roller-coaster. Go from 0 to 240km/h in 4.9 seconds while soaring to heights of 52 metres. The Tyre Change Experience tests if you can

match the pace of F1™ pit crews, while Turbo Track offers an epic zero-gravity fall.

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi is a waterpark with Emirati heritage at its heart. Spanning 15 football pitches, the park offers exhilarating water-based activities across a range of thrill levels, with more than 40 rides, slides and attractions – five of which are one-of-a-kind. Try the world-first, largest hydromagneticpowered, 238-metre-long, six-person tornado waterslide, Dawwamma, or check out three-metre-high waves on Bubble’s Barrel, which boasts the world’s largest surfable sheet wave for flow boards and bodyboards. The Bandit Bomber, a 550-metre coaster, showcases onboard water and laser effects, with riders shooting jets of water at targets, dropping water bombs and triggering special effects.

FOR CULTURE… The Palace of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, located on the western edge of Al Ain Oasis, was built in 1937. It was converted into a museum in 1998 and opened to the public in 2001. The original structure comprised a private residence for the ruler and his family within a complex of courtyards.

The iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi is the first universal museum in the Arab World, translating and fostering the spirit of openness between cultures.

As one of the premier cultural institutions located in the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District on Saadiyat Island, this art-lovers’ dream displays works of historical, cultural and sociological significance, from ancient times to the contemporary era.

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Jebel Hafit Desert Park provides insight into the rich history and incredible landscapes of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi’s lush garden city about one-and-a-half hours away from the capital. Occupying a ninekilometre stretch at the base of the craggy Jebel Hafit mountain, Abu Dhabi’s tallest peak, visitors can explore park’s majestic natural surroundings on a hike, mountain bike, horse or camel and discover fascinating archaeological and historical remains that tell enchanting stories of this unique area’s ancient habitation. Archaeological remains include remnants of the Neolithic period from 8,000 years ago and the 5,000-year-old Jebel Hafit Tombs.

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Mangrove National Park, located just outside Abu Dhabi city centre, is a jewel in the UAE capital’s crown. An ideal place for families, bird watchers and photographers looking to escape the hustle of the city for a few hours, this beautiful and surprising park continues to be

ABU DHABI’S HIDDEN GEMS

one of the emirate’s most important ecological assets. It comprises around 75 per cent of the total mangrove forest area in the UAE and is a biodiversity hotspot that includes mangrove forests, salt marshes, mudflats, and algal communities.

Sir Bani Yas Island, one of eight of the Al Dhafra islands, is a nature-based destination home to stunning wildlife, a range of adventure activities, five-star boutique hotels, luxury villas, purpose-built stables and historical sites. Named the World’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination at the 2014 World Travel Awards, more than half of this incredible island comprises the Arabian Wildlife Park, one of the region’s largest wildlife reserves home to more than 17,000 freeroaming animals, including Arabian oryx, gazelles, giraffes, hyenas and cheetahs. Guests can enjoy 4x4 nature and wildlife safaris in specially made vehicles accompanied by expert guides, with the island’s state-ofthe-art stables offering a variety of equestrian activities.

Bab Al Nojoum (pictured) camp is a new glamping destination located on a quiet beach on Al Hudayriat Island.

Delma Island is one of the oldest known permanent human settlements in the UAE, containing traces of palm tree cultivation and pottery dating back to the Mesopotamian civilisation.

Souq Al Zafarana located 90 minutes outside of Abu Dhabi, is the go-to destination if you are shopping for abayas, incense, spices or henna. It reflects Emirati traditions in a modern environment.

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SIR BANI YAS ISLAND BY ANANTARA

FOR OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES…

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DUBAI FOR ADVENTURE…

For outdoor experiences…

Hatta, located around 130km south-east of central Dubai, is a mountain town once known for its historic fort and small desert farms, but now attracts a wide range of adventure enthusiasts too. Pack your camping gear for a trek through the unforgettable landscapes and take it all in, from mountain biking at Hatta Wadi Hub and honey harvesting at the Hatta Honey Bee Garden to kayaking at Hatta dam and outof-this-world stargazing. At Hatta Reservoir Visitor Point, check out the pools of striking green water.

Outdoor yoga is offered at multiple venues around the city. You can experience Garden zen at SEVA garden in Jumeirah or take a break from city bustle with Lifestyle Yoga’s overnight desert yoga experience, or try underwater yoga at The Lost Chambers in Atlantis, The Palm.

Yoga sessions are also available at high altitudes, with a class on the 52nd floor of The Palm Tower, or why not try Sunset Yoga at Jumeirah Al Qasr facing the Burj Al Arab Hotel.

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DUBAI TOURISM

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DUBAI TOURISM

Deep Dive Dubai, the latest addition to the city’s thriving sports and adventure activities scene, is the place to be for all aqua enthusiasts.

Opened in July 2021, the recreational centre’s 60.02-metre-deep pool is certified by Guinness World Records as the world’s deepest swimming pool for diving. Shaped like an oyster, the building’s design pays homage to Dubai’s pearl diving heritage and the bravery of Emirati pioneers.

FOR CULTURE… Dubai Spice Souk or the Old Souk is a traditional market along Dubai Creek. Follow your nose to Al Sabkha Street where this openair market will tempt you with beautifully scented piles of spices, salts, nuts and dried fruit, replicating every colour of the rainbow. The souk comprises several narrow lanes, which are lined with open- and closed-roof stores. In addition, textiles, incense, rugs and artefacts are also sold in the Spice Souk. You’ll get the real Dubai experience as you wander through the meandering alleys.

The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood reveals what life in Old Dubai was like during the mid-19th century. Located along the Dubai Creek, this district is a key heritage site with much of the original infrastructure preserved and intact. The traditional wind towers – constructed from stone, teak, gypsum, palm wood and sandalwood – represent only a small part of Al Fahidi’s history. Each alley, twisting pathway and breezy tower tells a story of a life before the seven emirates. Follow the winding streets to discover a range of cultural activities, museums, art galleries, special events and traditional food.

FOR FUN… Ain Dubai is the latest landmark to join Dubai’s long list of world record-breaking attractions. Located on the new Bluewaters Island destination near Dubai Marina, the giant observation wheel stands at a staggering height of 250 metres, making it the highest and largest of its kind in the world. The monument is an amazing feat of construction, with each leg of the wheel standing 126m high – long enough to fit 15 London buses – while the weight of the assembled hub and spindle is equivalent to four A380 aircrafts.

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COCKWISE FROM LEFT: Ain Dubai; Crescent Moon Lake; Hatta; Deep Dive Dubai; Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

DUBAI’S HIDDEN GEMS

Crescent Moon Lake, an oasis spring in a crescent shape, was only discovered last year (April 2021) and can only be reached by 4X4 – or by camel of course.

Its co-ordinates are 24.7874218, 55.3065662 and it’s not far from the heart-shaped Love Lake in Al Qudra.

Al Qudra Lakes is resident to more than 170 species of birds and animals and is the ideal spot for nature lovers who want to get away from busy city life. It’s also perfect for picnics and camping.

Hatta Secret Pool was given its name because of its location, hidden in the rocky mountains and accessible only by foot. Visitors can relax, swim, go fishing and more.

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SHARJAH FOR CULTURE… The House of Wisdom is an iconic library and cultural centre designed by renowned international architecture firm Foster + Partners.

It pays tribute to the cultural accomplishments of Sharjah, commissioned in honour of the emirate being named the World Book Capital 2019 by UNESCO, and hosts a 105,000-book library with indoor and garden reading areas; seven specially designed pods for students and businesses to hold meetings and discussions; and the Al Jazri lab where creators and innovators have access to state-of-the-art technology and tools.

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SHARJAH’S HIDDEN GEMS At Al Sohob rest you can enjoy Khorfakkan’s beautiful views from 600 metres above sea level.

The new ‘Cloud Lounge’ here offers modern facilities, including a restaurant.

a mosque, all built of rock and clay.

The village is currently being restored

by Sharjah Planning and Survey Department along with several other historical areas of Khorfakkan.

FOR OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES… Moon Retreat is the place to experience eco-luxe camping, with luxury tent and dome accommodation, some with private pools, and signature nature-inspired experiences, including epic stargazing opportunities, hiking trails and a trip to Mleiha Archaeological Centre, home to a fascinating collection of artifacts and fossils. The glamping destination features a reception and a communal area offering a bonfire and BBQ experience too.

FOR HISTORY… Explore Mleiha, one of the UAE’s most important historical sites.

Step back in time and learn a about the settlers in the region during the Palaeolithic, Neolithic, Bronze, Iron, pre-Islamic, Islamic and modern ages.

At Mleiha Archaeological Centre, venture deep into the deserts of Sharjah and uncover the secrets of the region’s ancient Bedouin culture through

COCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Al Qurm Protected Area; Mleiha; The House of Wisdom; Moon Retreat

intriguing information, exhilarating recreational activities and breathtaking natural landscapes. Discover something unique every time with the centre’s ongoing excavation programme, which ensures there’s always a new treasure waiting to be unearthed.

Al Miqsar Village was built around 300 years ago and is located atop a small mountain in Wadi Shie. The village also has houses, stores, and

Al Qurm Protected Area located in the coastal areas of Kalba is home to one of the UAE’s most diverse ecosystems including seawater mangroves, swamps, salt marshes and mudflats, providing a suitable environment for a remarkable biodiversity of flora, fauna and animals. It is an important habitat for breeding many rare birds such as the local Arabian Collared Kingfisher and is also popular for eco-tourism pursuits including kayaking.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Sheikh Zayed Mosque; Al Aqah Beach; Wadi Abadilah

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FUJAIRAH FOR HISTORY…

FOR OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES…

Fujairah Castle, located 20 metres above sea level, was built between 1500-1550 AD and rebuilt in the period 1650-1700 AD.

Wadi Abadilah is one of the oldest areas of the UAE and an all-year-round destination due to its stunning natural landscape spanning mountains and rivers.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the second largest mosque in the UAE after Sheikh Zayed mosque in Abu Dhabi.

FOR LEISURE… Umbrella Beach, is an ambitious project on Fujairah’s waterfront and features restaurants, cafés, retail stores and other recreational, water and sports activities.

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Wadi Wurayah Bisophere Reserve, home to a unique plant and animal ecosystem with many wild animals, amphibians, birds and rare plants.

Camping on Al Aqah Beach – the emirate’s most popular beach, and one of the UAE’s most in-demand camping spots with charming views and clear water for snorkelling and other activities including kayaking.

FUJAIRAH’S HIDDEN GEMS

Fujairah is blessed with diverse natural attractions, from wadis and valleys and mountains to desert and beaches, most of which is uninhabited, so it’s easy to find a spot to escape and relax.

From a quite picnic or a solo yoga session as the sun rises to climbing and off-road adventures, there is something for everyone.

D E S T I N AT I O N S

RAS AL KHAIMAH

FROM TOP: The Jais Adventure Peak; Cycling adventures; Dhayah Fort; 1484

by Puro

FOR CULTURE… Dhayah Fort, the only remaining hilltop fortress in the UAE, is one of Ras Al Khaimah’s crowning glories, a site so precious that it’s a UNESCO heritage list contender. Dating back to the 19th century, this historical gem is also a Ras Al Khaimah vantage point, revealing stunning views of the lush palm gardens, the Arabian Sea and the dramatic mountain ranges.

FOR ADVENTURE… The Jais Adventure Peak, located on Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest mountain, is the gateway to attractions such as the Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park, the Jebel Jais Flight – The World’s Longest Zipline – and the Jais Sky Tour, comprising six ziplines, a sky bridge and more, as well as hiking, sledding and a ropes course.

Suwaidi Pearl Farm, the only pearl farm in the UAE, provides a glimpse into the emirate’s pearling industry. Take a traditional pearling boat to the floating cultured farm at the base of the Hajar Mountains as part of a guided tour where you will learn about the pearl cultivation and harvesting process and even open your own pearl. Discover how the pearling industry has evolved over the decades.

The Bear Grylls Explorers Camp offers courses of varying lengths, putting participants faceto-face with some of the toughest terrains in the wilderness. Check in here and you’ll receive hands-on practical training in extreme survival techniques. Topping off the experience are nine recycled and redesigned Bear Grylls branded cabins where you can spend the night and also have access to activities including mountain biking, hiking and climbing.

OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES… Cycling enthusiasts love RAK as it offers terrains for all levels and abilities, with dramatic views mixed with varying ascents at Jebel Jais, Jebel Yibir, Wadi Showka and Wadi Shewa.

Wadi Showka is the place to cool off, relax or walk in the mountainous area.

RAS AL KHAIMAH’S HIDDEN GEMS

1484 by Puro, the highest restaurant in the UAE, is the place to grab a sky-high bite with views while visiting the Jebel Jais Viewing Deck. It’s located at the Jebel Jais Welcome Centre and features an outdoor terrace.

Bedouin Oasis Camp is a peaceful desert retreat where visitors can learn about authentic Bedouin customs and traditions.

Bassata Desert Village is another option – here you can hang out with camels, enjoy a laidback BBQ and camp for the night.

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AJMAN FOR OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES… Al Zorah Reserve, located in the northern region of Ajman, is a protected area of more than one-million-square-metres of natural mangrove forest, and is a vibrant ecosystem for birds, namely flamingos, as well as marine life.

FROM TOP: Al Zorah Golf Club; Al Zorah Reserve; Masfout; Ajman Museum

Al Zorah Golf Club is a world-class par-72 course, created by the famed Nicklaus Design Group, set in the Al Zorah Reserve amid mangroves and trees and surrounded by 12km of waterfront to create a sense of tranquility and natural biodiversity for players.

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Masfout, famous for its agricultural land, marble and rugged backdrop, is a superb destination for hikers. With its altitude and cooler temperatures, it attracts walkers and mountain bikers, plus its valleys are ideal for a picnic.

FOR HISTORY… The Heritage District is a popular tourism destination showcasing Ajman’s cultural heritage and the famous Ajman Museum is the focal point. This newly renovated museum is housed in an 18th century castle that was once the ruler’s residence and now exhibits an impressive collection of artifacts, ancient manuscripts, pottery, and jewels dating back to 3,000 BC. The museum also features interactive electronic devices to ensure personal interaction by museum visitors Masfout Museum was inaugurated in December 2021 and features 12 themed rooms plus two towers. These sections introduce visitors to the history of the emirate and its ruling family, its traditions, crafts, and weaponry for a period of almost 5,000 years.

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AJMAN’S HIDDEN GEMS

Bianky beach camp is the ideal getaway for anyone who enjoys peace and tranquility. The entire camp is set on the beach and promises a traditional atmosphere.

D E S T I N AT I O N S

UMM AL QUAWAIN’S HIDDEN GEMS

Umm Al Quwain Wall is considered one of the oldest historical monuments in the region and comprises three towers called ‘Al Lazima Towers’.

UMM AL QUWAIN FOR HISTORY… Falaj Al Mualla, located around 30km from Umm Al Quwain city, is one of the most unique historic sites in the emirate, with its fort and watch towers dating back to the reign of Sheikh Abdullah bin Rashid the first in 1800. The fort was built using raw materials such as rocks from the nearby valley, cemented together with a mixture of gypsum.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: Al Ali Fort; The Ed-dour Site; Mangrove Beach Khor Al Yeefrah

Al Ali Fort is the most ancient historical building in Umm Al Quwain as it was first established by H.H. Sheikh Rashid Bin Majid Al Mualla in 1768 as a residence and venue for his government. In 2000 it reopened as a museum and today features 14 rooms to visit.

The Ed-dour Site is an exceptional archaeological area located on the southeast coast of the Arabian Gulf near the road linking Umm Al Quwain to Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah to Dubai. The only temple of its kind in the Arabian Gulf, it is dedicated to the ‘God of the Sun’.

The site also features a fortress and a palace, along with graves dating back to the first century AD.

FOR OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES… Mangrove Beach Khor Al Yeefrah is popular for its natural beauty and mangrove beaches and aims to promote environmental tourism. The mangrove forests feature magnificent red dunes where bird watchers can spot flocks of many bird species The beach offers unique opportunities for relaxation, camping, caravans, and activities such as kayaking, beach tennis, jet-skiing and paragliding.

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THE WORLD ON PLATE VISIT THE UAE TO FEAST ON THE VERY BEST OF GLOBAL CUISINE

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D E S T I N AT I O N S

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ith the UAE’s restaurant scene as diverse as its destination offering, it has earned a reputation as a global gastronomic hub – a country where you can eat a different cuisine every day for 365 days a year.

Its tens of thousands of restaurants cater to every taste and craving, reflecting the palates of more than 200 nationalities who now call the country home.

Food tourists have already started to make a beeline for the UAE, exploring not just the best of Gulf cuisine – dishes such as the hearty harees and the dessert luqaimat – but some of the best examples of food from the Arab world, the Indian subcontinent, South-East Asia and East Africa.

It means visitors enjoying the World’s Coolest Winter in the UAE can indulge in whatever they fancy, from five-star gourmet dining to homegrown fusion concepts to a wide array of street food.

Try Iraqi Masgouf, Jordanian Mansaf, Palestinian Musakhan, Somali Cambuulo, North Indian Biryani, Portuguese Bacalao, Ethiopian Zigni, Iranian Falooda and Russian Kapusta, and eat over crisp white tablecloths or spread out on a blanket in one of the nation’s many parks or on one of its beaches.

Such is the country’s reputation for top-notch cuisine that an increasing number of renowned international chefs have brought their skills to the UAE and their restaurants have become tourism magnets.

Among these celebrated names are Gordon Ramsay, Nobu Matsuhisa, Giorgio Locatelli and the former White House chef in the Barack Obama administration, Ron DeSantis.

Gordon Ramsay British chef Gordon Ramsay has achieved worldwide fame, opening a string of restaurants around the world, including 15 in London where Restaurant Gordon Ramsay has held three Michelin stars for two decades. Ramsay first brought his talents to the UAE with Bread Street Kitchen, a crowd-pleasing British-accented venue at Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai. He has since added Hell’s Kitchen in Caesars Palace Dubai on Bluewaters Island. This is the second branch of this luxurious franchise following its launch in Las Vegas and is inspired

by Chef Ramsay’s reality TV show. It serves his signature dishes including beef Wellington and sticky toffee pudding.

THIS PAGE §FROM TOP: Nobu Matsuhisa; Hungry Planet; Gordon Ramsay OPPOSITE PAGE FROM TOP: The UAE offers a diverse range of cuisines; Local grilled fish is a must try

Nobu Matsuhisa Highly acclaimed Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa opened the Dubai branch of his world-famous restaurant Nobu at Atlantis, The Palm, in 2008. True to its global reputation, Chef Matsuhisa serves exquisite contemporary Japanese dishes that fuse the flavours of the Far East with international elements, including those from the Gulf. It remains the benchmark for Asian cuisine in the UAE. Massimo Bottura For lovers of Italian cuisine, the UAE is home to one of Italy’s most famous chefs, Massimo Bottura. His restaurants have earned three Michelin stars and he has brought his unique style and palate to Dubai in the form of Torno Subito at the W Hotel on The Palm. The relaxed beachside venue is inspired by the 1960s and offers innovative Italian for lunch and dinner. Prior to opening his Dubai venue, Bottura gained wide international fame after opening his first restaurant, Osteria Francescana, which is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in the world.

Giorgio Locatelli International chef Giorgio Locatelli has gained global fame thanks to a talent that is as at home in the kitchen as it is on our television screens. He was brought up among celebrity chefs in Corgeno, Italy, and after working in restaurants in Switzerland, England and Paris, he opened Olivo and Zafferano, which immediately became two of the most successful Italian restaurants in London. He then opened Ronda Locatelli at the iconic Atlantis resort on The Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, a popular eatery serving an array of authentic Italian dishes.

Hungry Planet It’s not just in restaurants where the world’s best chefs are able to make their mark in the UAE. Ron DeSantis, a former chef at the White House in the US, is lending his expertise to future foods, specifically plant-based meat products that deliver both health and environmental benefits. As chief culinary officer at Hungry Planet, which is exploring opening operations in the UAE, Ron is helping to cement the UAE’s position as a leading regional hub for food technology. This also makes the country a destination for tourists wishing to experience what food will be like in the future.

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Etihad launches sustainability focused corporate rewards programme Green loyalty offering expanded to benefit organisations that make sustainable choices

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tihad Airways has launched its dedicated sustainability focused corporate rewards programme.

Corporate Conscious Choices is designed to facilitate and deliver corporate partner sustainability goals through carbon offsetting, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) investments and green surcharge fares.

The programme specifically targets organisations committed to reducing emissions and operating sustainably, with rewards and incentives designed to proactively support pro-environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives and employee behaviour.

Benefits span four core sustainability pillars: SAF Investment, Green Surcharges, Corporate Conscious Miles and Carbon Offsets.

“All corporates and organisations need transportation, whether it’s for travel

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or their supply chain. Our aim with the launch of Corporate Conscious Choices is to recognise those corporations that take the most sustainable actions through rewards and recognition,” said Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group.

Etihad said the programme had already resonated with corporates, with several leading global organisations partnering with Etihad to launch Corporate Conscious Choices, including CWT, one of the largest business travel management companies globally, and Accenture.

HOW IT WORKS Corporate Conscious Choices has been designed as an open platform that can be adapted to the unique needs of individual corporates, so rewards and incentivisation can be tailored against any of the four core pillars of the programme:

SAF Investment: Sustainable aviation fuel is one of the key components to a sustainable future of air travel, with the potential to reduce up to 80 per cent of net carbon emissions throughout its full cycle from production to utilisation.

Through Corporate Conscious Choices, corporate partners have the ability to bulk buy Sustainable Aviation Fuel with Etihad, which will be fully accredited and can be used to offset against the company Scope 3 emission requirement.

Green Surcharges: Corporates can opt to have a ‘Green surcharge’ added to each corporate travel flight ticket, which is then invested in offset solutions, such as SAF, mangrove planting, re-forestation or community projects in Africa. The surcharge will pay or partially pay for the emissions created by staff on business travel, and these investments will be fully accredited where possible to provide the corporate with Scope 3 emission reductions.

Corporate Conscious Miles: When business travellers fly on Etihad and earn Etihad Guest Miles, the airline will award the miles to their organisation too. Corporate Conscious Points can be used to offset corporate travel, everyday activities or purchase sustainable products from the Etihad Guest Reward Shop.

Carbon Offsets: Corporate Conscious Points can be invested in either an Etihad Offset programme or a programme of the corporate’s choice to offset the emissions produced on every Etihad business travel flight. The Etihad solutions will be accredited where possible and provide a contribution to the corporation’s Scope 3 reduction and additionally scope 1 reductions for Etihad. With governmental pressure for corporates to demonstrate and uphold ESG standards, integrating offset schemes within corporates may raise these corporates scores in ESG indices, and Etihad will also work with partners on other ESG initiatives.

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Oryx Airport Hotel moves closer to 100 per cent eco-friendly target

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amad International Airport’s (HIA) Oryx Airport Hotel has replaced all its plastic water bottles with ecofriendly water containers. It’s the latest green initiative implemented at the airport hotel, which over the past two years, has made strong headway with its efforts to achieve 100 per cent eco-friendly operations.

The property has entered a partnership with Italian manufacturer, LY COMPANY ITALIA, to offer eco-friendly water containers to hotel guests and is the first hotel in Qatar to implement the product.

The containers are created from 76 per cent vegetable origin, which is completely recyclable. The paper is made from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified forests and responsibly managed plantations that generate cellulose to develop paper.

In addition, the caps and the protective layers are composed of cane sugar derived polymers.

The Oryx Airport Hotel has also replaced all guestroom keycards with bamboo cards, uses recycled paper for all hotel printing collaterals and operations, and has substituted plastic bags with biodegradable bags. For hotel room amenities, plastic cotton buds have been replaced with bamboo buds packaged in cardboard boxes, plastic coffee cups switched with recyclable paper cups, and plastic lids replaced with polylactic acid (PLA) lids derived from plants.

Plastic bottles for shampoos and body lotions have also been replaced with EcoPure PET bio-degradable bottles and plastic dental and shaving kits have been replaced with starch toothbrushes and shaving utilities, while plastic slippers, combs, and shower caps are now available in eco-friendly forms. Dining options have been reinforced with sustainable measures too including paper straws and wooden cutlery.

Plant Power at Soneva Gili CALLING ALL VEGANS – Gili Lankanfushi, a luxury eco resort in the Maldives, has launched a five-day Powered by Plants package including plant-based meals and nature-based activities. On arrival, enjoy sweet vegan treats and prepare for sunshine with a complimentary bottle of reef-safe Australian gold botanic sunscreen, before trying out the feather and wool-free bedding. Then discover Gili’s gastronomic vision, embracing carefully sourced seasonal ingredients and farm-to-table concepts. Throughout your stay you will feast on plant-based menus inspired by Maldivian culinary traditions and crafted by the resort’s executive chef, Hari Govindaraj.

Signature dishes include Aloe Vera & Beetroot Tartar with Arugula and Seared Radish & Spinach Cannelloni and there’s an option to join chef Hari for a vegan cooking class too. All the produce on your plate is grown in the resort’s organic garden and all food waste is processed in an advanced rocket composter to produce a natural fertiliser to nurture the garden. Activities on offer range from spa treatments using cruelty-free vegan products to snorkelling.

RESPONSIBLE ROUND-UP Air France has added a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) levy to all tickets departing France. The SAF contribution is included in the ticket price and ranges from €1-4 in the economy cabin to €1.50-12 in the business cabin, depending on distance. The airline has also introduced eco-friendly business class and premium economy amenity kits. Made from 93 per cent recycled material, they feature a toothbrush and pen made from corn starch; ear plugs packaged in kraft paper and a tamperevident seal rather than plastic packaging.

Meanwhile, Qatar Airways has become the first carrier to make a transaction on the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Aviation Carbon Exchange (ACE) using IATA Clearing House (ICH). The ACE is a centralised marketplace where airlines and other aviation stakeholders can trade CO2 emission reduction units for compliance or voluntary offsetting purposes.

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UNSEEKERS

in the Indian Ocean Taking a break from work-from-home desks and masked meetings by heading to the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean for a relaxing break

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LEFT: Overwater villa on Oblu Select Lobigili resort BELOW: Velaa Private Island, Noonu Atoll; Water skiing with an aquatic jet pack

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lans for winter sun in 2020/21 may have been scuppered by the ongoing pandemic, but with the vaccine rollout and easing of restrictions around the world, now’s your chance to explore recently reopened, new and renovated properties across the Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Zanzibar and Madagascar – from exclusive private islands to boutique boltholes and resorts specialising in watersports and other fun activities.

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MALDIVES OBLU RESORTS, NORTH MALÉ

Best for: All-inclusive packages

Atmosphere Hotels and Resorts is set to debut two brand-new resorts in its Colours of Oblu brand in the North Malé Atoll this year. The adults-only Oblu Select Lobigili will open this month (February) on Lobigili island – known as ‘Island of Love’ in the Maldivian language of Dhivehi. It will feature 68 chic beach and overwater villas, three restaurants (including one underwater), two bars, a spa, and an overwater gym. Guests can opt for the Lobi Plan which includes all meals, daily snacks, unlimited beverages, spa services, excursions, a selection of non-motorised watersports and a fully stocked minibar.

March will then herald the arrival of Oblu Xperience Ailafushi, a 268-villa, family-friendly resort with activities including a Kids Club, Zumba classes, and a 15-metre theatre and entertainment centre (to follow in June). Atmosphere Hotels and Resorts currently operates eight resorts within the Maldives. atmospherehotelsandresorts.com

VELAA PRIVATE ISLAND, NOONU ATOLL

Best for: Privacy and high-tech experiences

This ultra-luxe resort comprises 47 private villas, houses and residences, with a maximum occupancy of 134 people. The resort has recently invested in new facilities and experiences to coincide with the return of guests following the pandemic – these include a new padel tennis court and Krash Predator jet-ski, while wellness practitioners have joined the property to provide integrative body work, sound healing and mind training workshops. Existing highlights include an aquatic hoverboard which reaches speeds of 16 miles per hour, and an aquatic jetpack that uses water pressure to send riders 30 feet high. Meanwhile, dining venues range from the all-day Athiri restaurant and Avi poolside bar to fine dining options and Japanese teppanyaki accompanied by wines from the island’s cellar. velaaprivateisland.com FEBRUARY 2022

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THE WESTIN TURTLE BAY RESORT AND SPA

MAURITIUS LUX GRAND BAIE RESORT AND RESIDENCES

Best for: Stylish interiors

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ABOVE: Dining at The Westin Turtle Bay Resort and Spa BELOW: Bisou rooftop bar and restaurant; lounge space, Lux Grand Baie Resort and Residences

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This luxury hotel opened on December 1 on the north coast of the eponymous island, featuring 86 junior suites, seven two-bed villas and 20 residences with calming interiors by British designer Kelly Hoppen. Suites come with terrazzo bathrooms, rainfall walk-in showers and stand-alone bathtubs, while villas are set in landscaped gardens and feature private pools, expansive decks and a gazebo.

If you’re going with a larger group, opt for one of the 180 sqm residences, with a pool, kitchenette, dining and living area. Dining concepts include a restaurant and beach club, tapas by the infinity pool at rooftop bar and restaurant Bisou, and Asian cuisine at Ai Kisu. Guests can rejuvenate at the on-site spa which provides curative treatments, a Recharge and Rehydrate juice bar, and a rooftop wellness area. Lux has several other properties across the Indian Ocean, including Lux Belle Mare, Lux Le Morne and Lux Grand Gaube in Mauritius. luxresorts.com

Best for: Fitness enthusiasts This luxury five-star resort reopened in October, situated in Balaclava on the north-west coast of Mauritius. It occupies 800 metres of beachfront on Turtle Bay, while sugarcane fields lie to the rear of the property.

The hotel houses 190 rooms and suites and five dining venues facing the turquoise lagoon, which include Indian cuisine at Kangan, lantern-lit barbecues under the stars at Beach Grill and produce from the island’s gardens at Fusion. Marriott International’s Westin brand is known for its focus on wellness and fitness, and this property does not disappoint. Guests can pack light and borrow New Balance shoes and athletic wear to sport at the fitness centre, or source tips on the best running routes from the Running Concierge. Plus, there’s a 1,500 sqm spa, two swimming pools and a kids club.

westinturtlebaymauritius.com

RIGHT/BELOW: Two-bedroom residence and open-air deck at Kisawa Sanctuary, Benguerra Island, Mozambique BOTTOM: L’Escale Resort Marina and Spa, Mahé Island, Seychelles

MOZAMBIQUE KISAWA SANCTUARY, BENGUERRA ISLAND

Best for: Sustainability This new resort encompasses 300 hectares of forest, beach and sand dunes on the southern tip of Benguerra Island, 14km off Mozambique. Founded by Nina Flohr, the hotel focuses on protecting the natural surroundings and local population by showcasing the craftsmanship of local skilled artisans, sourcing ingredients from within 300km of the resort, and offering eco-friendly activities.

At the opposite end of the island, for instance, lies sister property Bazaruto Centre for Scientific Studies, Africa’s first permanent ocean observatory where guests can help tag marlin and sharks for research and monitoring purposes.

Other activities include sunset sailing aboard the resort’s dhow, or the opportunity to explore the island via the electric Mini Mokes. The resort’s 12 residences are housed within one-acre plots and each include an open-air deck, infinity pool, outdoor day area and kitchen. Plus there’s a spa with a 25-metre pool, and seven dining outlets, including pizza served from a tuk-tuk and Mozambique dishes with South Indian flavours at Baracca – guests can even pick their ingredients for dishes from the permaculture garden.

SEYCHELLES L’ESCALE RESORT MARINA AND SPA, MAHÉ

Best for: Superyacht sailors

Formerly the Wharf Hotel, the main attraction of this property on the largest island in the Seychelles is its 19-berth marina, allowing guests to sail straight to Mahé Island. The name pays homage to the ancient times of the Ottoman Empire, when seafarers would stopover on this tropical idyll. It’s fitting, therefore, that the interiors have been conceived

by Winch Design – a firm known for its work on superyachts. The 25 rooms, suites and villas feature wood panelling, cream furnishings, and nautical memorabilia. Dining venues include L’Escale Lounge and Restaurant for international cuisine with a Creole touch, and the Pool Bar which offers views of the ocean and neighbouring Eden Island. The hotel also offers excursions, such as zip lining and hikes, or you can get treatments at the spa complete with a heated infinity pool and spa bath.

lescaleresort.com

kisawasanctuary.com

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SRI LANKA AMANWELLA, TANGALLE

Best for: Peaceful seclusion

Located just over an hour’s drive east of Galle lies Amanwella, a contemporary beach retreat with a palm-fringed beach that stretches the length of the bay. The resort reopened in November and features 31 rooms and suites – the latter of which have their own private sea-facing terrace and plunge pool – a 47-metre swimming pool, an open-air yoga deck and a spa with treatments available in-suite and on the beach. Guests can dine at the restaurant and beach club which specialises in locally caught seafood and curries using ingredients from the resort’s organic gardens, or opt for romantic private beach barbecues, surrounded by candles and Sri Lankan oil torches. Local excursions include sunset views on a 210-metre-high rock at Mulgirigala Rock Temple and wildlife safaris at Udawalawe National Park. If you want to experience all that Aman has to offer on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, then follow up your stay with a few nights at sister property Amangalla in Galle Fort. aman.com/resorts/amanwella

REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTRY

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(AT THE TIME OF GOING TO PRESS) MALDIVES: negative

PCR test issued no more than 96 hours prior to departure; traveller health declaration form 24 hours before departure; temperature checks and screening procedures in place on arrival

ABOVE: The beach at Amanwella, Tangalle, Sri Lanka LEFT: Beach-facing pool at Amani Boutique Hotel Zanzibar

ZANZIBAR AMANI BOUTIQUE HOTEL ZANZIBAR

Best for: Kitesurfers

This Small Luxury Hotels of the World property is located on the Paje Beach overlooking the Indian Ocean. The 14 light and airy rooms offer balconies or patios with views of the gardens or sea. Nearby attractions include the beach, which has steady winds making it ideal for wind- or kitesurfing, while diving enthusiasts can see turtles, starfish, trumpet fish and other marine creatures on the coral reef. Elsewhere, travellers can explore the historical architecture and fortresses of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, take part in a spice tour of the island, or see the endemic endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey at Jozani Forest National Park, which is 25km from the hotel. amanizanzibar.com

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MAURITIUS: negative

PCR test taken within 72 hours of last point of embarkation; mandatory health or travel insurance covering Covid-19; test on arrival and on Day 5 of the stay; non-vaccinated must quarantine in an approved hotel for 14 days and take further tests

SRI LANKA: negative

PCR test taken within 72 hours of last point of embarkation; health declaration form; non-vaccinated

travellers must take PCR test on arrival, pay mandatory local Covid 19 insurance of US$12, and can only stay in approved hotels SEYCHELLES: negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to departure; application for entry form; temperature checks and screening procedures in place on arrival TANZANIA: negative PCR test taken within 96 hours prior to departure; online form submitted no more than 24 hours before arrival; temperature screening and mandatory rapid test upon arrival MOZAMBIQUE: negative

PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to departure; possible testing on arrival

OPINION

Will it ever be the same again?

The limitations of virtual meetings and the rise of new companies trading globally bode well for a revival in business travel R I CH A R D TA MS A I R L I N E C O N S U LTA N T A N D E X E C U T I V E C O A C H

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BENJAMIN SOUTHAN

s someone who has only recently taken to the skies again for the purpose of business travel after a grounding of 18 months, I have to ask the question: will business travel ever be the same again? While suppliers in the industry hope for the return of passenger volumes, I have to say that I think the nature of business travel has changed for good.

When I was head of corporate sales for a major airline, our clients would occasionally issue revised travel policies in times of financial hardship or, more frequently, as they approached the end of their financial year. The new edict would be that only ‘essential travel’ would be permitted. Not only was this bad news for their travel suppliers, but it always made those of us in the industry wonder what ‘non-essential’ travel looked like and why it was permitted for the rest of the time.

We didn’t ask too many questions of course because corporate travel spend was key to our business model. However, it does beg the question as to whether this ‘non-essential’ business travel can be relied upon to keep the sector afloat in the future and, if not, what should suppliers do?

all travel to visit overseas offices, to attend internal meetings or external conferences or to meet with suppliers would be included in the ban.

I’m not suggesting for a minute that companies will take such a draconian view of business travel on a permanent basis in the future. In fact, as we come out of the pandemic, we are all discovering the shortcomings of virtual meetings when it comes to building teams, passing on skills and sharing best practice with peers.

WHAT IS ‘NON-ESSENTIAL’?

How can we define what companies mean by ‘non-essential’ business travel?

From my own experience of 20 years in business travel, the term has broadly come to define all travel that is not client-facing, and therefore does not directly generate revenue flows into the company, or is not essential for corporate compliance. By this definition,

However, as financial controllers and sustainability chiefs look to 2022, the option of Zoom as an alternative to many meetings that we have previously flown around the globe to attend, will be increasingly compelling. Unlike previous travel bans which may have lasted a few months, we have had at least 18 months to master these mediums. In that context, the

The idea of hopping on a plane as if it were a bus to attend a client dinner may appear laughable

idea of once again hopping on a plane as if it were a bus to attend a quarterly review or a client dinner in New York, with all the accompanying paperwork and wellbeing implications, may appear laughable.

For those that can justify the expense and the emissions, there will be increasing pressure to plan and consolidate their travel in better ways, meaning that trips will be booked further out and will be fewer but longer. This has varied implications for the business travel supply chain and the wellbeing of travellers. Suppliers will need to look again at advanced purchase airfare products, the frequency and capacity of business flights, and the nature of longer stay hotel offerings, to name but a few.

There will also be a resulting wellbeing dividend as we pivot towards less brutal travel itineraries. This will coincidentally suit a new generation of corporate nomads, for whom the distinction between work and leisure trips will become increasingly blurred in the future.

REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL Industry leaders have generally forecast that business travel volumes will reach pre-pandemic levels by 2023 and I don’t for a moment think that their optimism is misplaced. The question is whether those levels are reached by a return to old habits by current business travellers or organic growth stemming from burgeoning new businesses keen to trade globally.

I predict the latter, with the traditionally big spenders in the market travelling less, and new entrants taking up the slack. The industry should not be downhearted. It’s not dying, it’s just changing.

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4 HOURS IN...

WORDS HANNAH BRANDLER 1

Hammersmith Meander through the streets of one of London’s most scenic areas with its historic bridge, gardens, pubs and cafés

FEBRUARY 2022

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HAMMERSMITH BRIDGE

The striking 134-year-old greenpainted suspension bridge is a landmark known to many in London, linking Hammersmith on the north side of the Thames with the leafy, suburban-like Barnes neighbourhood on the south side. The Grade-II listed structure made headlines across the world when it was abruptly closed in August 2020. It has had its fair share of issues since its debut in 1887, but after decades of unchecked corrosion it was feared it may collapse.

Thankfully this masterpiece of Victorian engineering, designed by Joseph Bazalgette, is now open to pedestrians and cyclists (and rowers beneath), although plans to reopen it to motorised traffic seem far off. This year the government announced a plan to stablise and restore the bridge.

Meanwhile, walkers can enjoy its traffic-free beauty.

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RIVERSIDE STUDIOS

This popular arts centre located on the Thames Path (just right of the bridge) is one of the neighbourhood’s best spots for entertainment.

Originally a Victorian iron foundry, it was converted into a film studio in 1933 and later taken over by the BBC from 1954 until 1975, providing a set for early episodes of Doctor Who. Since then, it has been under the management of a charitable trust which provides a diverse programme of events that has featured stars including Benjamin Zephaniah, Helen Mirren and Lenny Henry.

The centre reopened in 2019 following an extensive five-year refurbishment and now comprises two cinemas, state-of-the-art studios for theatre, dance, comedy, art and TV productions, and a riverside bar, kitchen and bakery. riversidestudios.co.uk

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THE DOVE

Walk along Lower Mall past various riverside pubs; a stretch packed to the brim during the annual boat race between Cambridge and Oxford universities. You will soon reach Furnivall Gardens and a cobbled alley which connects to Upper Mall. Here you’ll find the historic pub The Dove – a favourite among locals. There has been a pub on the site since the 17th century, frequented by historic figures, including King Charles II and poet James Thomson who composed his song Rule Britannia here.

A framed list of patrons, including 21st century luminaries, hangs over the lower bar’s fireplace. Nab a table on its riverside terrace and duck under low beams to order pints.

The pub also offers a full menu of signature dishes by chef Francis Crane crafted from local, seasonal produce. dovehammersmith.co.uk

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ST PETER’S SQUARE

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THE ELDER PRESS CAFÉ

Return to South Black Lion Lane and stop for a bite to eat at The Elder Press Café, a lovely minimalist eatery with pastel-pink seating areas, an open kitchen, and a cosy garden courtyard.

Its seasonally changing menu features dishes for breakfast, brunch and

5 lunch, and its freshly baked cakes are recommended. The café draws inspiration from the area’s printing history (hence the name), and you can find out more about this heritage by walking along Hammersmith Terrace afterwards – a former hotspot of the Arts and Crafts movement. Blue plaques honour past residents and you can visit the home of typographer Emery Walker at number 7. theelderpress.co.uk; emerywalker.org.uk

CATHERINE GRATWICKE

Continue down the Upper Mall for seven minutes, passing by various rowing clubs, until you reach South Black Lion Lane. Take the underpass beneath the A4 to North Verbena Garden and turn left to reach the picturesque St Peter’s Square.

This beautiful green space was laid out in the 1820s and, unlike most garden squares of this kind across

London, it’s open to the public.

Here you’ll find the bronze statue The Greek Runner by Sir William Blake at its centre, but the GradeII listed stuccoed townhouses that surround the garden square are just as interesting.

Check out number 22, an architect’s studio that was once the headquarters of major record label Island Records and where musicians, including Cat Stevens, Bob Marley and U2, recorded. The square’s grandeur has lent itself to movie sets, with the 2006 biopic Miss Potter filmed here.

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burning questions about electric cars Whether you like them or loathe them, electric cars are coming. Here are the answers to the questions you’ve always wanted to ask about electric vehicles and hybrids

WORDS NAT BARNE S FEBRUARY 2022

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WILL ALL NEW CARS BE FULLY-ELECTRIC AFTER 2030?

No. The UK Government has announced that it will be a staggered introduction. So from 2030, all new cars need to be electrified not fullyelectric, meaning plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) will still be sold. Then from 2035, all new cars will need to be fully electric or EVs. In reality, most car manufacturers have already announced that their line-ups will be electrified ahead of these dates.

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SHOULD I BUY A FULLYELECTRIC CAR OR A PLUG-IN HYBRID?

From 2035 you won’t have a choice, but before then it depends on how you use your car. The fully-charged range of electric cars is growing all the time (see next question) and many owners find that the technology isn’t the hindrance that you might at first imagine. However, if you want the flexibility of being able to drive long journeys at short notice or you run up a high annual mileage, then a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) might be more convenient.

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WHAT ABOUT THEIR RANGE? HOW FAR CAN ELECTRIC CARS GO ON ONE CHARGE?

Battery technology is improving all the time, but the range of electric vehicles largely depends on the size of the battery fitted. Most new electric cars have a fully-charged range of 200 to 300 miles, while the new Mercedes EQS (the new S-Class) has a range of up to 453 miles. The main problem is the time it takes to fully charge.

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IS IT SAFE TO BUY A USED ELECTRIC CAR?

Well, once you accept the usual used car-buying warnings of ‘caveat emptor’, yes it is. All EV car manufacturers have separate warranties for their batteries (on Jaguar’s I-Pace for instance it’s eight years and 100,000 miles) and if you’re in any doubt, you can often check the health of the battery pack using the car’s on-board diagnostics.

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IS AN ELECTRIC CAR CHEAPER TO BUY AND RUN THAN A PETROL OR DIESEL CAR?

At present, electric cars are generally more expensive to buy than their conventional counterparts with petrol or diesel engines. However, the running costs are considerably lower and you pay less in road tax and any taxes you might have as a company car driver, so over a period of two or three years they’re usually cheaper overall.

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IS AN ELECTRIC CAR REALLY BETTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT THAN A NORMAL CAR?

Oh crikey, how long have you got?

Strictly speaking, yes running a car on electricity is cleaner than pumping out carbon dioxide and other particulates into our immediate atmosphere as with petrol or diesel.

Dig a bit deeper though and it’s not that simple. That electricity you use to charge up your electric car needs to be from green sources itself, while the car batteries manufacture includes lithium, cobalt and nickel, which are all about as clean as a Victorian street urchin.

Battery technology is improving as is the reliance on rare metals, but the reality

is that it’s not clear cut and both sides of the argument can unravel faster than snagging your favourite Christmas jumper on a holly bush.

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WILL THERE BE A SUFFICIENT NUMBER OF CHARGERS FOR ME TO CHARGE MY CAR?

There are more than 16,000 charging locations and around 45,000 chargers in the UK. The initial problems of the charging network are being ironed out with more providers able to take contactless or immediate payments rather than requiring you to have an account. Companies such as Gridserve are also building ultra-rapid, fastcharging service stations. Gridserve has bought a national charging network from Ecotricity, so is updating the motorway charging network, too.

How much you will need that network however is another matter. At present, around 80 per cent of EV drivers charge their cars at home or at work, so you may need it less than you think.

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HOW WILL I CHARGE MY CAR IF I DON’T HAVE OFF-STREET PARKING?

The government has just put in a proposal that all new homes and offices built from 2022 will have EV chargers, so this will become less of a problem as time goes on. As stated above, the charging network is growing all the time and local councils are installing more kerbside charging points in lampposts to help. Otherwise, there are concierge services, such as the start-up firm Zumocharge in London, which will collect your car, charge it up overnight and return it to you for a small fee plus the cost of electricity.

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HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO CHARGE AN ELECTRIC CAR?

Here’s the good news – at a traditional filling station, you’re effectively at the mercy of the fuel company. With an EV though, you can change your home electricity provider for the best deal – some providers even offer overnight deals as low as 5p per kWh. As a very general rule, most EVs will travel around three to four miles per kWh. On the road, charging prices work much like petrol or diesel. Motorway services and faster charging points tend to be expensive, while quieter, less powerful ones are cheaper. Rates can vary from 20p per kWh up to 70p per kWh. You can sometimes get reduced rates however by paying a separate monthly membership fee if you’re going to charge regularly with one provider.

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WHAT ARE THE TAX ADVANTAGES OF AN ELECTRIC CAR EITHER AS AN EMPLOYEE OR BUSINESS OWNER?

As an employee, there are numerous advantages to driving a fully electric company car or even a plug-in hybrid with the Benefit-in Kind tax rates. For plug-in hybrids however, you should check the electric range beforehand as the tax breaks change depending on how far they can go on battery power alone.

The Workplace Charging Scheme helps businesses with the costs and installation of charging points – up to £350 per socket for businesses with off-street parking. For SMEs, the capital allowance tax relief on an EV with low emissions is considerably better than for conventional cars, so speak to your accountant to make it work for you.

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CARS

5 EV and

PHEVs to watch HYUNDAI IONIQ 5

Price: from $49,835 Hyundai and sister firm Kia are both building some of the most exciting electrified models to arrive into showrooms and this Ioniq 5 is the perfect example.

Stunning, futuristic looks, up to a 298-mile range and incredible performance (how does 0 to 60mph in 5.2 seconds grab you?). The Ioniq 5 may not be one of the most involving cars to drive, but we think it could easily be a contender for the best design in the World Car of the Year awards.

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PEUGEOT 308 HYBRID

Price: from $44,453 Driver choice is everything when it comes to buying a new car. An incredible 70 per cent of new Peugeot 308s that leave showrooms are sold as company cars and this latest version is better than ever. As well as traditional petrol and diesel engines, there are two plug-in hybrid models available with a fully-electric version coming in 2023. So the same car will be available as a family hatchback or estate and with four different power sources.

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VOLVO XC60 RECHARGE PLUG-IN HYBRID

Price: from $71,511 The XC60 has been Volvo’s best-selling model globally since 2009 and this refreshed model is no less desirable. Three plugin hybrid models are on offer starting with the 340bhp T6 offering emissions as low as 55g/ km and an all-electric range of up to 32g/km. This year (2022) the XC60 will also get a larger and more efficient battery pack, improving those performance numbers still further.

AUDI Q4 E-TRON

Price: $53,949 The all-electric Audi Q4 e-tron and Q4 e-tron Sportback are on the same platform as VW’s ID4 and the Skoda Enyaq. That means there’s a choice of two batteries – 52kwh or 77kWh – and three power levels along with two or four-wheel drive. The Audi Q4 e-tron goes as far as 317 miles (Q4 e-tron Sportback, 323 miles), while it also has intelligent regenerative braking that cleverly automatically uses its knowledge of the road ahead for ultimate driving efficiency.

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KIA KV6

Price: from $55,180 While under the skin the gorgeous new Kia KV6 may share some of its underpinnings with the Hyundai Ioniq 5, that’s where the similarities end. The KV6 is only available with a 77kWh battery pack, giving it a range of up to 316 miles, but there are two and four-wheel drive models and a more powerful version is on its way, too. We also can’t help thinking there’s more than a hint of Aston Martin DBX about the rear-end styling and what’s not to like about that?

To read more, visit evs-unplugged.com FEBRUARY 2022

ELECTRIC CARS

WORDS GEMMA GREENWOOD 54

Volvo goes electric in the Middle East

The fully electric XC40 BEV compact SUV

Al-Futtaim unveils the fully electric XC40 BEV compact SUV

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l-Futtaim’s Trading Enterprises, the official distributor of Volvo Cars in the UAE, has unveiled its first fully electric car in the Middle East. The XC40 BEV is a compact SUV designed for modern urban living.

The launch marks another milestone in Volvo’s journey to a zero-emission future and as part of its commitment to sustainability by only selling electric vehicles by 2030.

Increasing the use of sustainable materials is just one way the XC40 Recharge helps reduce its environmental impact. For example, the interior carpeting is made entirely from recycled plastic. Over 200,000km, an XC40 Recharge twin has a lower carbon impact than a petrol-powered XC40 T5, irrespective of the charging electricity mix (global, EU or wind).

The battery has a nominal capacity of

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78kWh. A fully charged battery gives drivers a projected range of up to 418km in mixed driving before it needs a recharge.

“We’re seeing significant growth in demand for BEV technology and smaller compact SUVs as consumers are starting to adopt and embrace the new technology,” says Oscar Rivoli, Managing Director of Trading Enterprises.

“Electrified cars remain highly desirable for individuals who appreciate top technology and want to integrate a more eco-conscious driving practice in their lifestyle. We believe demand for hybrid vehicles will continue to grow in the years to come as more people realise the benefits of hybrid mobility.”

Volvo is also witnessing a worldwide increase in demand for electric vehicles. The share of cars with a fully electric or plug-in hybrid powertrain, the Recharge models, amounted to 25.5 per cent of all cars sold

globally during the first 10 months of 2021.

In October 2021, the share of Recharge BEV cars accounted for 31.5 per cent of total sales.

As part of Volvo’s shift in how and where the automotive industry is engaging customers and with the goal of transforming the traditional retail model, the XC40 BEV will be available to buy online.

This is aligned to Al-Futtaim’s Automotive’s omnichannel strategy to challenge the conventional car buying experience and accelerate online sales.

The Volvo XC40 BEV was officially launched at the new Volvo Studio, a facility designed to modernise the vehicle-buying experience for customers with tailored services, activations and more.

Volvo Studio is located in Dubai Festival Plaza, Jebel Ali, open daily from 10am to 10pm.

Visit volvocars.com/en-ae/studios/dubai

OPINION

The demise of hotel restaurants As the hospitality industry faces rising costs, are we witnessing the end of the hotel restaurant as we know it?

DEREK PICOT A HOTELIER FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS AND AUTHOR OF THE HOTEL DETECTIVE AND HIS LOVER

T

BENJAMIN SOUTHAN

he collision of Brexit and the pandemic in early 2020 has led to a fundamental re-think for many businesses as to how they will meet Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s vision of the UK as a country with higher wages, increased productivity and growing global trade.

October’s news of an increase to the national minimum wage is a further milestone in the current UK government thinking, but how will this affect the hospitality industry?

James Barr, general manager of The Wesley Hotel in London’s Euston, says: “Significant changes will happen. Staff costs are our most expensive commodity.”

In mid-level hotels, typically room profit contributions turn 80p in every £1, but restaurant profits of traditionally 20p in the pound now make little or no contribution to the bottom line. With the absence of employees interested in serving meals, some London operators report wage costs increasing by up to 20 per cent.

The Wesley Hotel is refurbishing the upper floors of a Methodist Chapel in Camden Town to provide a new property. It is scheduled to open in June and designed to minimise labour costs. “There will be no food and beverage offering,” says Barr.

“Guests will self-serve their check-in and vending machines will look after all their needs. Breakfast can be pre-ordered, prepared externally and delivered packaged direct to the room.”

Given the serious challenge of finding post-Brexit labour to work in food preparation and service, which historically was sourced from Europe, the offering planned by The Wesley Hotel may be the

only option for many other mid-level hotels.

Indeed, the hotels of the future may look more like motels without the parking.

WHERE WILL GUESTS EAT? What do these developments mean for business travellers? Where will they eat? Barr points to the number of local restaurants near The Wesley Hotel as a solution. Alternatively, Robert Nadler, founder of boutique hotel group Nadler Hotels which rebranded as

Guests will self-serve their check-in and vending machines will look after all their needs

The Resident in early 2020, says many hotels will focus on offering “affordable luxury” by stripping back facilities, such as restaurants and bars, and instead providing in-room mini-kitchens.

This means that the hotel restaurants of the future will either have to be high-end with gastronomy and service as a focus, or low-priced, with speed and limited choice the main aim.

Inevitably, prices for restaurant-goers are going to increase. Since the UK government bumped up the VAT element from 5 per cent to 12.5 per cent, prices have already risen, and they will further rise as VAT goes up in April 2022 to 20 per cent. For comparison, in France and Spain the VAT element of eating out is 10 per cent, and in Germany it is currently 7 per cent.

Industry pundits reckon that with the planned increase in UK VAT next year the average meal ticket will rise about 25 per cent from 2020 prices.

DISAPPEARING WINES In addition, European wines will all but disappear from menus with small lists and be replaced by Australian, Argentinian or Chilean bottles. One supposes that if there is ever a trade deal struck with the US we might see a bottle or two of Californian wine.

“Look on the positive side,” a leading chief executive of a large consortia of national hotels recently said. “A lot of mid-range mediocrity will go to the wall and that is what the government policy is dictating. If the industry doesn’t transform its product and the way in which it organises itself to sell it there will be no business. Hotels will have to re-think the food and beverage operation and the focus will be on amenity and facility.

What are consumers most interested in? A gastronomic menu or a comfortable bed?”

Take heart, though. UK Hospitality, the industry’s voice to government, is running a campaign called ‘VATsenough’ and hopes the Chancellor of the Exchequer will look kindly upon eateries and the people who support them. Unfortunately, the proof was not in this year’s budget pudding.

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SMAR T TR AVELLER

Which airlines have first class?

F

irst class has become a rare sight in the sky, with airlines instead focusing on higher-end business class cabins and premium economy offerings, while the pandemic has also hastened the removal of ultra-luxe cabins because of the decline in passenger numbers.

Here we round up the airlines that still offer first class cabins on international flights. Note that some services may be suspended due to the pandemic.

SERVICES CURRENTLY OPERATING AIR FRANCE: LA PREMIÈRE Available on: most B777-300 aircraft flying between Paris CDG and Atlanta, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Washington, Mexico, Sao Paulo, Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Tokyo Haneda, Abidjan, and Johannesburg.

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On the ground: Complimentary chauffeur service (within a 40km radius of Paris CDG); priority check-in and boarding; fast-track security; priority baggage claim; lounge access.

Seat: Fully lie-flat in a first class suite with privacy screens.

Amenities: touchscreen IFE system with noise-cancelling headphones; individual cloakroom; amenity kit with Carita toiletries; loungewear.

Dining: à la carte menu by renowned chefs; Jean-Marie Massaud table settings, Bernardaud porcelain plates, and Christofle glasses and flatware; wine list.

AMERICAN AIRLINES: FLAGSHIP FIRST Available on: B777-300 aircraft.

On the ground: priority check-in and boarding; fast-track security; priority baggage claim; lounge access.

Seat: fully lie-flat in a suite.

Amenities: IFE with Bang and Olufsen noise-cancelling headphones; Shinola and DS and Durga amenity kit; loungewear and Casper sleep set.

Dining: multi-course menu by James Beard Foundation chefs; wine list.

ALL NIPPON AIRWAYS: FIRST CLASS Available on: B777-300ER and A380 aircraft.

On the ground: priority check-in; fast-track security; priority baggage claim (at select airports); lounge access.

Seat: fully lie-flat in a suite with privacy doors or self-contained seat with high-panel walls depending on the configuration of B777-300ER; fully lie-flat seats with a privacy door on A380.

Amenities: IFE with Sony noise-cancelling headphones; complimentary wifi; loungewear; Globetrotter amenity kit with Ginza toiletries.

Dining: à la carte menu by renowned chefs; premium wine list.

ISTOCK

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BRITISH AIRWAYS: FIRST Available on: B787-9, B777-200, B777-300, A380-800 aircraft.

On the ground: priority check-in and boarding; fast-track security (at select airports); priority baggage claim; lounge access.

Seat: fully lie-flat in a suite.

Amenities: touchscreen IFE with Meridian noise-cancelling headphones; complimentary wifi (on select aircraft); Temperley London loungewear and amenity kit with Elemis toiletries.

Dining: à la carte menu with exclusively designed crockery, cutlery and glassware from William Edwards, Studio William and Dartington; wine list.

EMIRATES: FIRST CLASS Available on: A380 and B777 aircraft.

On the ground: chauffeur drive (at select destinations); priority check-in and boarding; fast-track security; priority baggage claim; lounge access.

Seat: fully lie-flat in a suite with privacy doors (floor-to-ceiling doors on B777).

Amenities: touchscreen IFE with Bowers and Wilkins noise-cancelling headphones; A380 onboard shower spa and lounge bar; Bulgari amenity kit; Byredo skincare set; minibar; wardrobe (on B777).

Dining: à la carte menu served on Royal Doulton fine bone china with exclusive Robert Welch cutlery; wine list.

ETIHAD: FIRST Available on: select B787 aircraft.

On the ground: chauffeur service; priority check-in and boarding; fast-track security; priority baggage claim; lounge access.

Seat: fully lie-flat in a suite with privacy doors.

Amenities: IFE with noise-cancelling headphones; complimentary wifi; Acqua di Parma amenity kit; wardrobe; loungewear.

Dining: à la carte menu; wine list and signature Cognac service.

JAPAN AIRLINES: FIRST CLASS Available on: B777-300ER aircraft On the ground: priority check-in and boarding; fast-track security; priority baggage claim; lounge access.

Seat: fully lie-flat in a suite with a privacy partition.

Amenities: IFE with Bose noise-cancelling headphones; Etro amenity kit; Shiseido personal care set; Nendo loungewear.

Dining: ‘Bedd Sky Auberge’ menus by renowned chefs; wine list.

KOREAN AIR Available on: B777WI on its ICN-LAX and ICN-JFK routes.

On the ground: priority check-in and boarding; fast-track security (at select airports); priority baggage claim; lounge access.

Seat: fully lie-flat in a suite with privacy doors.

Amenities: touchscreen IFE with Samsung noise-cancelling headphones; amenity kit with Atelier Cologne toiletries; Gianfranco Ferré loungewear.

Dining: à la carte menu; wine list.

LUFTHANSA: FIRST CLASS Available on: B747-800 aircraft.

On the ground: priority check-in and boarding; fast-track security (at select airports); priority baggage claim; chauffeur service at Lufthansa’s hubs to transport guests to the aircraft; lounge access.

Seat: fully lie-flat with curtains.

Amenities: touchscreen IFE with Bose noise-cancelling headphones; complimentary wifi; personal, lockable wardrobe at entrance to cabin; amenity kit.

Dining: à la carte menu by chefs from select hotels served on fine china; caviar service on daytime and evening flights; wine list.

OMAN AIR: FIRST CLASS Available on: B787 Dreamliner aircraft to Salalah in Oman and London Heathrow only.

On the ground: priority check-in and boarding (at select airports); fast-track security (at select airports); priority baggage claim; lounge access.

Seat: fully lie-flat seat in a suite with sliding doors (or adjustable dividers in centre seats).

Amenities: touchscreen IFE with noisecancelling headphones; individual wardrobe; minibar; loungewear; Amouage amenity kit.

Dining: à la carte menu; caviar service; wine list.

SINGAPORE AIRLINES: FIRST CLASS Available on: B777-300 aircraft flying to Sydney, Hong Kong, Frankfurt, Jakarta, Tokyo and London and A380.

On the ground: priority check-in and boarding; fast-track security; priority baggage claim; lounge access.

Seat: fully lie-flat with partitions on B777; beds and reclinable seat in a suite with sliding door on A380.

Amenities: touchscreen IFE with Bang and Olufsen noise-cancelling headphones; Lalique amenity kit; loungewear and other amenities available on request; complimentary wifi.

Wireless tablet and ensuite wardrobe (on A380).

Dining: Book the Cook service; Wedgwood bone china tableware and Lalique glassware SWISS: FIRST Available on: B777-300 ER, A340-300, A330-300 aircraft.

On the ground: priority check-in and boarding; fast-track security access; priority baggage claim; lounge access.

Seat: fully lie-flat with privacy walls on A330-300, or a suite on B777-300ER and A340-400.

Amenities: IFE with noise-cancelling headphones; Zimmerli of Switzerland loungewear (on night flights); private wardrobe (on B777-300ER and A340-400); Bally amenity kit with La Prairie toiletries.

Dining: Taste of Switzerland à la carte menu by renowned chefs; wine list.

SERVICES THAT MAY RETURN CATHAY PACIFIC: FIRST CLASS Available on: currently monitoring demand for B777-300ER routes.

On the ground: priority check-in and boarding; fast-track security; priority baggage claim; lounge access.

Seat: fully lie-flat in a suite with built-in lumbar massager; working area.

Amenities: IFE with Bose noise-cancelling headphones; complimentary wifi; amenity kit with Bamford toiletries; Pye loungewear.

Dining: à la carte menu; wine list.

QANTAS: FIRST Available on: A380 aircraft between Sydney/ Melbourne and Los Angeles/London from April.

On the ground: priority check-in and boarding; fast-track security; priority baggage claim; lounge access.

Seat: fully lie-flat in a suite with privacy screens.

Amenities: touchscreen IFE with noisecancelling headphones; sleepwear by Martin Grant; amenity kit with Lagaia skin care products; onboard lounge and bar.

Dining: tasting menu (on select services) or à la carte menu by Neil Perry.

THAI AIRWAYS: ROYAL FIRST CLASS Available on: exploring possibilities for the service on new B777-300 aircraft.

On the ground: priority check-in and boarding; fast-track security; priority baggage claim; lounge access.

The airline is currently exploring and designing the service elements.

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HOTEL LISTINGS

HOTELS COLLECTION

B u s i n e s s Tr a v e l l e r M i d d l e E a s t m a g a z i n e i s a v a i l a b l e i n a l l o f t h e s e e x c l u s i v e h o t e l s

GRAND MILLENNIUM DUBAI HOTEL

MIRFA HOTEL

WALDORF ASTORIA RAS AL KHAIMAH

DUBAI The 340-room five star hotel features awardwinning restaurants and bars, spa and health club, state-of-the-art meeting rooms, a magnificent ballroom and exceptional banquet facilities. +971 4 429 9999 reservations@grandmill-dubai.com grandmillenniumdubai.com

AL MARFA Away from the bustle of city life, overlooking the azure blue waters of the Arabian Gulf, the Mirfa Hotel offers 114 newly renovated rooms. The hotel provides excellent accommodation for the business and leisure traveller, state-of-the-art conference facilities, a fully equipped gym and ample parking. +971 2 8953009 rsvn@mirfahotel.com

RAS AL KHAIMAH Cradled by the Hajar Mountains, a championship golf course, sandy beaches and the azure waters of the Arabian Sea, Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah is 50 minutes from Dubai Airport and brings true Waldorf service to the most alluring beachfront location in the UAE. +971 7 2035555 rasalkhaimah.info@waldorfastoria.com waldorfastoria.com/rasalkhaimah

CROWNE PLAZA MUSCAT OMAN CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE

CROWNE PLAZA DEIRA, DUBAI

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, DUBAI

OMAN Adjacent to the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, this 295-room hotel is an integral part of Madinat Al Irfan, a product of an exciting ambition to establish a new urban centre within Muscat. Situated 10 minutes from the new Muscat International Airport, Al Mouj and Muscat Hills Golf courses and overlooking a Wadi - a natural reserve and home to about 260 variety of Oman’s exotic birdlife during the season. +968 2425 2000 rooms.cpmuscatocec@ihg.com crowneplaza.com/muscatocec

DUBAI Located in the cultural heart of Dubai, Crowne Plaza Dubai – Deira lies at the convenient gateway between the old and new districts of the city. Featuring 300 guest rooms and suites, and an array of meeting rooms, 6 restaurants and bars, a dedicated and fully equipped fitness centre with outdoor swimming pool, the hotel is the perfect place for both leisure and business guests. +971 4 262 5555 cpdeira.info@ihg.com crowneplaza.com/deira

DUBAI The award-winning Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai offers luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining and gracious hospitality in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. The hotel’s 302 superbly appointed rooms and suites offer a combination of traditional luxury and modern functionality. Spatial elegance, awesome views and thoughtfully selected furnishings create an experience of unparalleled style and comfort. +971 4 3438888 shangri-la.com/dubai

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the

eport Tried, Tested, Tasted.

TRIED AND TESTED

TRIED AND TESTED

TRIED AND TESTED

TRIED AND TESTED

■ Singapore Airlines B777-300ER Business Class (Vtl Flight) Frankfurt-Singapore

■ The Langham Sydney

■ Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong

■ Mandarin Oriental, New York

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■ JW Marriott Grosvenor House London

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■ Hyatt Centric Ginza Tokyo

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TRIED & TESTED FLIGHT

Singapore Airlines B777-300ER Business Class (VTL flight) FRANKFURT-SINGAPORE

business travellers, which was introduced in November 2020 and discontinued after a few weeks. The first prerequisite for being able to enter Singapore quarantinefree under the new arrangement is the use of so-called VTL flights. Open only to vaccinated persons, they operated until October 30 by Singapore Airlines (SIA) three times a week from Frankfurt (always on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays) and twice a week from Munich (always on Mondays and Wednesdays). According to SIA, these times will not change during the winter. On Thursdays and Saturdays Lufthansa offers VTL flights from Frankfurt.

Travellers from Singapore to Germany are not bound to VTL flights and therefore can currently enter without quarantine if vaccinated, tested or recovered (known as 3G, because in German it is geimpft, getestet, genesen). Booking for these flights is as normal, but the SIA website informs you of the steps to take before flying.

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B A C K G R O U N D On September 8, 2021, Singapore opened its borders to fully vaccinated travellers from Germany, although there are various stringent requirements, detailed below.

The new initiative is called the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) and is a new travel corridor for vaccinated persons, which can be used by both business and leisure travellers to visit Singapore without quarantine restrictions. Germany, the Sultanate of Brunei and Macao were the first countries to be signed up to the VTL and it was subsequently extended to 21 countries including India, Indonesia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, although some of these are currently on hold. The VTL means that the previously mandatory quarantine of at least 14 days upon arrival in the city-state has been waived, and travellers can move freely in Singapore.

This is in contrast to the Green Lane for FEBRUARY 2022

date of entry into Singapore. If accepted by the Singapore government, a traveller gets an official confirmation and a VTP. Also required is the SG Arrival Card and a booking confirmation for a further PCR test on arrival at Changi Airport (all to be applied for and paid for online in advance).

The TraceTogether app on the smartphone for contact tracking in Singapore must also be shown at check-in.

This is not only time-consuming before travel but also at check-in – 10 minutes per passenger at best, despite four manned counters and the professionalism of the SIA staff. The papers are not always complete, and some have to be corrected. This first VTL flight took off with 106 passengers and waiting times were comfortable, but since interest is high, the airline and passengers will have to prepare for peak loads.

For the first time since the pandemic began, the crew is serving from the trolley again, at least one of two meals C H E C K - I N I arrived at 1800 for my 2200 departure on SQ325. People were already standing at SIA’s check-in counters in Hall C of Terminal 1 at Frankfurt Airport.

Many documents need checking, since Singapore’s bureaucratic requirements are high. All passengers must be fully vaccinated, have been in Germany for a minimum of 21 days, present a negative PCR test result no older than 48 hours, and have a Vaccinated Travel Pass (VTP).

To get this, travellers must fill in a form and answer all kinds of health questions, and the VTP must be issued between seven and 30 days prior to their intended

B O A R D I N G Boarding started at 2125 and a temperature check of each passenger was conducted. At the aircraft door, the crew greeted us wearing medical masks and Plexiglass goggles. First class was fully booked, business class was 54 per cent occupied with 26 of 48 seats, another 15 passengers were in premium economy, 55 in economy. The total of 106 passengers is about double that of current non-VTL flights.

SIA’s VTL flights are currently operated with a Boeing 777-300ER in a four-class configuration (first, business, premium economy, economy).

T H E S E A T I was seated in 23A, a window

seat at the rear of the business class cabin, which is arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration – each passenger has direct aisle access.

At 28 inches wide, the seat is one of the leaders in the industry. There are two seating options – the Lazy Z, a cradling position that ensures your weight is centred and balanced when you’re sitting down, and the Sundeck, a lounging position. The seat also flips to become a fully-flat bed when you’re ready to sleep.

T H E F L I G H T Shortly before 2200, the captain announced a flight time of 13 hours and 15 minutes – one hour longer than usual because the flight plan avoided airspace over Afghanistan. As we taxied out of the parking position, the on-board service had already begun with drinks

access it on board, though there is also the usual handheld control. A free e-library with 150 publications is also available, as is the option to shop online in the KrisShop – shopping on-board is not currently available. For those who want to send text messages, Business Class guests have a free wifi package of 100MB per flight, with top-ups starting at US$3.99.

After the supper (a goat cheese tart with fig cream starter, tomato mozzarella omelette main, and green tea tiramisu) I lay down to sleep – thanks to a fully-flat bed and fine cotton bedding, I rested for a few hours and awoke with another 3.5 hours until landing.

Instead of continental breakfast (available on request), I ordered Indian lamb curry. The beverage list is complete again (after months of a reduced service).

and went to the pre-booked PCR test. All in all, the whole airport experience took just under an hour. A bus was waiting outside the door to take passengers to the hotel where a quarantine of several hours awaited us. We were not allowed to leave the room until the test result was available.

I received it at 0200.

V E R D I C T The bureaucratic hurdles are enormous, but the VTL is a blessing for everyone travelling between Germany and Singapore. Visitors are spared the agonising several-week hotel quarantine and enjoy unimagined freedoms. At time of press (January 2022), Singapore Airlines was operating VTL flights to 21 destinations, including Turkey. VTL travel from the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia was on hold.

Sabine Galas

BEST FOR Comfort of seat and bedding, excellent service

C ONFIGURATION 1-2-1

SE AT WIDTH 28 inches

SE AT RECLINE 180 degrees

BED LENGTH 78 inches

FLIGHT DURATION offered and food orders taken. A light supper and a hot meal were offered with several options. For the first time since the pandemic began, the crew is serving from the trolley again, at least one of two meals.

Because the airline is increasingly moving its content to digital, and not just because of Covid 19, there are no longer any printed menus; instead they are at inflightmenu.singaporeair.com or via the SingaporeAir app. It is hygienic, sustainable, and may even be efficient, but it takes some getting used to. The app can also be used to control the KrisWorld entertainment program, create a personal playlist and

The popular satay service is also back – a sign of hope after months of pandemicrelated abstinence.

We landed a few minutes late at Singapore Changi Airport (1738 Singapore time). It was a long but pleasant flight.

ARRIVAL The airport was empty, with

around two dozen employees standing in the terminal, dressed in blue protective suits. Passengers went immediately to the immigration desk, where a photo and our fingerprints were taken and a lot of paperwork had to be done. I activated the TraceTogether app, picked up my bags

13 hours 15 minutes

PRICE Internet rates for a return business class flight from Frankfurt to Singapore start at US$2,690 (60 days advance purchase), $3,645 (no advance purchase); economy class tickets from $703. Prices subject to change

CONTACT singaporeair.com

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TRIED & TESTED HOTEL

The Langham Sydney

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B A C K G R O U N D The Langham Hotels and Resorts is a portfolio of luxury hotels in prime destinations, with a hospitality legacy dating back to 1865 in London. The Sydney property, formerly The Observatory Hotel, but revamped, rebranded and reopened as a Langham in December 2014, occupies a premium location on Kent Street and encapsulates the brand’s signature touches, from its elegant design and sincere service to bursts of ‘Langham Pink’, including its Pink Taxi – a nod to the brand’s British heritage.

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? Private, discreet

and residential, with 83 spacious sun-filled rooms and 13 suites terraces facing the city or the famous Sydney harbour. There is an intimate ambience from the moment you step inside, and you feel as if you are a member of an exclusive club or residence.

This property is for the discerning guest who appreciates subtle luxury over ostentation.

Staff are professional, friendly and courteous and the design is elegant, contemporary and accentuated by natural daylight.

W H E R E I S I T ? This glamourous

hideaway is nestled in the heart of ‘old’ Sydney at The Rocks, close to Circular Quay and its icons, with the Harbour Bridge and Opera House a 10-minute walk away. It’s also five minutes from Barangaroo, a new development that saw a container terminal transformed into a modern retail and dining precinct and a nature reserve with stunning harbour views.

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R O O M S We travelled as a family of four, so we occupied two adjoining rooms – one with an indulgent super king (possibly the most comfortable bed I’ve ever slept in) and the other with two double beds. Both rooms were very spacious with elegant modern décor, including white shutter blinds and furniture, complemented by bold splashes of colour in artwork and cushions. Our rooms overlooked the harbour and were flooded with daylight, plus the large marble bathrooms featured double sinks, a bathtub and walk-in rain shower. In-room luxuries included robes, slippers, Chuan Spa toiletries, fast complimentary Wi-Fi, a mini bar, tea/ coffee-making facilities and an iPod dock.

There was a desk/vanity unit and separate table, so plenty of space to work or rest.

You feel as if you are a member of an exclusive club or residence F O O D A N D D R I N K There are two outlets – the well-known Observatory Bar where you can sip inventive cocktails while sinking into the plush velvet chairs – and the Kitchens on Kent, where fine-dining meets an openkitchen luxury buffet. We ate breakfast here and enjoyed superb coffee, fresh juices, and a wide array of cuisines – fruit, pastries, dim

sum, a cooked breakfast with eggs to order, just how you like them, and much more. The Langham also offers a popular afternoon tea with Wedgewood, plus plenty of private dining options to wow clients.

B U S I N E S S The Langham can host a wide range of corporate and social events with venues including The Ballroom (up to 220 guests) and The Drawing Room (up to 140) with Western Harbour glimpses. For special occasions, the Pink Taxi is on call.

L E I S U R E For health and wellness there’s

an underground sanctuary featuring a Romanesque-style 20-metre indoor pool, a small, but well kitted-out gym, and one of Sydney’s best day spas – The Chuan Spa – with 10 treatment rooms. Guests also have access to a private tennis court located opposite the hotel.

V E R D I C T This sophisticated boutique property is close to all the city action but tucked away in a quiet and discreet location. It’s a convenient luxurious base for business travellers who expect the best – and ideal for a ‘bleisure’ trip. You will definitely be tempted to extend your stay to spend some sunny Sydney leisure time with family or friends. Gemma Greenwood BEST FOR A work-to-leisure stay

DON’T MISS Drinks in the Observatory Bar

PRICE From AU$448 (US$323) per night for a Deluxe Room

CONTACT 89-113 Kent Street; langhamhotels.com

TRIED & TESTED HOTEL

JW Marriott Grosvenor House London B A C K G R O U N D First opened in 1929 and overlooking Hyde Park, JW Marriott Grosvenor House is one of London’s iconic properties, with its ballroom regularly playing host to major events. With versatile accommodation including suite options and plenty of interconnecting rooms, plus its proximity to the city’s major shopping districts, it’s a GCC traveller favourite and ideal for staycations mixing work meetings and family time.

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? Elegant, sophisticated and expansive, with a spacious lobby where people meet and chat as if at home. The art of hospitality is embraced at this hotel, with thoughtful service and attention to detail in an environment that’s both traditional and contemporary at the same time. It’s for these reasons that loyal guests return again and again, savouring the familiarity and the location.

W H E R E I S I T ? On Park Lane in the heart of the upscale Mayfair neighbourhood, surrounded by aristocratic homes and close to Oxford Street, Knightsbridge, Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park. It’s walking distance from Marble Arch tube station. Hotel parking is available at a charge.

R O O M S Travelling as a group of two adults and two children, we stayed in a fabulous Executive Suite, with two bedrooms (one king, one twin), two bathrooms (one with a bath and the other with a large walk-in shower) and large lounge with sofa, chairs, coffee table, work desk and plenty of amenities, from tea/coffee-making facilities and lots of bottled water to bathroom accessories, including a travel wellness gift pack. The kids’ amenities were fantastic, including mini robes and slippers and a selection of sweet treats. Perfect for short or long stays, you can use this suite as a base for a workcation. It’s spacious, with plenty of room to work or relax – a temporary home in the heart of the city.

BEST FOR Family ‘workcations’

DON’T MISS Afternoon tea at the Park Room

PRICE From £1,500 (US$1,997) for an Executive Suite, £515 ($686) for a Standard Room

CONTACT 86-90 Park Lane; marriott.com

F O O D A N D D R I N K The tranquil Park

Room, overlooking Hyde Park, serves the British tradition of afternoon tea and is also the perfect spot for a hot drink or early evening aperitif after a busy day working, shopping or visiting local museums. JW Steakhouse serves prime cuts and also, breakfast, with a wide range of high-quality a la carte and buffet options on offer.

Other venues include upscale culinary experiences at Corrigan’s Mayfair (modern British) and Ruya London (Turkish), plus the Red Bar and Bourbon Bar for drinks.

If you’re craving Arabian fare, Al Hamra in Shepherd Market (alhamrarestaurant.co.uk) is our top pick for superb Lebanese cuisine

Loyal guests return again and again, savouring the familiarity and the location and a great atmosphere. It’s a 10-minute walk from the hotel.

B U S I N E S S This is one of London’s top events destinations with 23 event rooms and 29 breakout rooms. The highlight is The Great Room, first launched in 1929 as an Art Deco ice-skating rink, which today accommodates up to 2,000 guests. A host of suites at 86 Park Lane range from the 30-person capacity Boardroom Suite to the Ablemarle (up to 150).

L E I S U R E A fully equipped gym with a

quiet space for meditation and yoga, plus the best of London on the hotel’s doorstep.

V E R D I C T This landmark hotel, steeped in history, remains a go-to property for solo business travellers or those travelling with their families. With great service, plenty of dining options, spacious accommodation and access to London landmarks, shopping, embassies, museums and much more, it’s a great base, plus the event space caters to gatherings big and small. Gemma Greenwood FEBRUARY 2022

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TRIED & TESTED HOTEL

Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong B A C K G R O U N D The Four Seasons is one of Hong Kong’s most prestigious addresses, famed for having eight Michelin stars under one roof. Completing the final stages of a renovation, the hotel features new rooms and suites, a lobby makeover and revamped drinking dens.

W H E R E I S I T ? Adjoining the IFC shopping mall in Central, within walking distance of the main business hub and entertainment hotspots. Excellent transport options range from the Airport Express and MTR to taxis and nearby Star Ferry.

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W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? The hotel exudes luxury and elegance from the moment you arrive; staff greet you warmly as your luggage is whisked away. The new lobby now features Galley – an open-plan lounge and bar, where the lunchtime crowd are dressed head to toe in Versace, with a Rolex or two peeking from tailored cuffs.

R O O M S The 399 rooms and suites are generously sized, starting at 45 sqm. I stayed in one of the newly renovated Grand Harbour View Suites: a 68 sqm corner unit.

The old traditional Chinese aesthetic has been replaced with a contemporary look

by Remedios Studio: clean, sleek lines, modern leather furnishings and a soothing palette of moody blues and greys. But the starring feature is the view. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer a 180-degree panorama over Victoria Harbour, Kowloon and beyond.

Smart flatscreen TVs feature in the bedroom and lounge, with mirroring technology to stream Netflix content. A circular table offers a place for working or dining, with power sockets nearby.

A cabinet area is fully stocked with Nespresso machine, pre-mixed Caprice Negroni (HK$290, £27) and an elegant range of chinaware and glasses.

Complimentary Evian water bottles are replenished daily, along with a fruit bowl and pot of tea.

The old traditional Chinese aesthetic has been replaced with a contemporary look The bed is enormous, with a pillow and duvet menu to customise the perfect sleeping environment. Handy dimmer and blackout-blind switches are located on both sides, as well as double plugs and USB sockets. A dressing area is stocked with plush robes and slippers.

Beautiful marble bathrooms feature dual sinks, a soaking tub, (book your complimentary Himalayan Salt bath ritual before 5pm), separate rain shower and smart toilet. Fragrant Bulgari amenities and a Dyson hairdryer are notable treats.

Guests who upgrade to the 45th floor Executive Club can also enjoy breakfast, snacks, afternoon tea and a light supper, plus views from a wraparound balcony.

F O O D A N D D R I N K The three Michelin-starred French fine dining restaurant Caprice served up an exquisite experience, with an ingredient list featuring Scottish langoustines, caviar and English lamb, presented by a discreet army of knowledgeable waiters and sommeliers.

FEBRUARY 2022

The three-star Cantonese feast at Lung King Heen was just as delicous, and every dish was a treat.

Newcomer Argo bar replaces Blue Bar with a conservatory-style theme that offers a gorgeous, gilded hangout. Meanwhile, the classic Caprice bar has old-world glamour for a cosier setting, with a modern drinks and nibbles list. Reservations are recommended for all outlets.

M E E T I N G S A range of fully equipped meeting spaces, including a 24-hour business centre and a 708 sqm ballroom.

L E I S U R E An infinity pool, lap pool, hot tub and cold plunge pool overlook the harbour, with cabana day loungers. The spa features extensive facilities, though the sauna and steam room are closed during Covid.

V E R D I C T Gorgeous new rooms, and a wealth of wellness-focused facilities, make the Four Seasons easily one of the best options in Hong Kong. Tamsin Cocks BEST FOR Endless dining, wellness and spa offerings

DON’T MISS A one-on-one Chakra Meditation with in-house specialist Dr Tania Bardhan

PRICE Internet rates for a flexible midweek stay in December started from US$1,054 (including service charge) for a newly renovated Grand Harbour View Suite

CONTACT 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong tel+(852) 3196 8333; fourseasons.com/hongkong

TRIED & TESTED HOTEL

Hyatt Centric Ginza Tokyo B A C K G R O U N D The Hyatt Centric Ginza Tokyo was the first Hyatt Centric in AsiaPacific when it opened in 2018. Since then, another has opened in Kanazawa, a city that pre-pandemic was emerging as an alternative destination to Kyoto.

W H E R E I S I T ? In a prime location in the heart of the upscale Ginza district, one of Tokyo’s premier dining and shopping areas. It’s a couple of minutes on foot to the swanky Ginza Six shopping complex and Mitsukoshi department store, as well as Ginza Station. It’s also a short taxi ride to Tokyo Station and the Marunouchi and Otemachi business districts.

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? It doesn’t have the opulence of five-star sister brand the Andaz in Tokyo’s Toranomon neighbourhood – there’s no spa or pool and just two dining options. The primary target seems to be 30- to 40-something leisure and business travellers, with the focus on providing basic needs instead of non-essentials that would drive rates higher.

That’s not to say it isn’t plush. The spacious fourth-floor library-lounge has an extremely sleek feel with dark woods and deepish red and copper tones, and a chic hipster tinge thanks to retro Pac Man and Space Invaders arcade machines, comfy couches, and hotel pet: a robotic Aibo dog.

Add in staff uniforms that are more Apple store than the usual formal attire of Tokyo’s upper-end hotels, and the overall package is refreshingly welcoming and unstuff y.

R O O M S Spread across the 5th to 12th floors are 164 rooms and suites. The 11th floor One King Bed Deluxe room I stayed in was 47 sqm and, like all non-standard rooms, overlooked Namiki-dori, a prime shopping street – albeit there wasn’t all that much to see beyond other buildings.

Design-wise, it was a continuation of the sleek lobby style, with natural woods and yellow and red hues. Furniture highlights included a day bed and a handy workdesk-cum-dining table, while the bathroom featured a separate bathtub and shower.

The rooms are fun to unwind in, with thoughtful attention to detail throughout: electronic blinds and blackout shades, large wall-mounted LCD TV (50 inches in my room), Nespresso machine, a laptop-sized safe, Bose Bluetooth speaker, eco-conscious Beekind bath products, bathrobes and yukata gowns.

The differences between rooms mostly comes down to size. The entry-level Twin and Kings are 35 sqm, while suites have separate bedrooms and come in at 77 sqm, apart from the 127 sqm Namiki Suite.

The overall package is refreshingly welcoming and unstuffy F O O D A N D D R I N K There are two

options – both on the third floor and both open to non-guests. At Namiki667, chef Toru Hirakawa focuses on slowroasted dishes using ingredients sourced predominantly in and around Tokyo. The dinner menu includes à la carte and four- and five-course options and it’s also open for lunch and breakfast. Due to the Covid-19 state of emergency in Tokyo, breakfast was served in-room only during my stay – and had to be ordered 30 minutes ahead of time.

The adjoining Namiki667 Bar and Lounge focuses on coffee, sweets and original cocktails. Again, this was temporarily suspended during my stay, but there are usually music nights and a 4pm to 6pm happy hour. Both venues share access to a lovely open-air terrace.

Of course, this being Ginza, a hotel here doesn’t need much else. There are hundreds of bars and restaurants, including several Michelin-starred sushi joints and many other more affordable restaurants in the area. Staff can help make reservations.

M E E T I N G S The Namiki Suite can be used as an event space for up to 20 people.

There’s also a 110 sqm multi-function area in Namiki667 with a built-in 120-inch screen and projector that can host up to 60 guests, plus an additional private dining room that can accommodate up to 30.

L E I S U R E There’s a complimentary 24-hour fitness centre with cardio machines, yoga mats, and weights

V E R D I C T The Hyatt Centric Ginza Tokyo

delivers plush, functional, and friendly accommodation, with a superb location for shopping, eating, and doing business in central Tokyo. Rob Goss

BEST FOR The location – Tokyo’s best restaurants and shops are right on the doorstep

DON’T MISS Browsing books and relaxing with a coffee at the library-lounge

PRICE Internet rates for a flexible midweek stay in December started from US$178 (including service charge and tax) for an entry-level King or Twin room

CONTACT 6-6-7 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan 104-0061 tel. +81 (0)3 6837 1234; hyattcentricginza.com FEBRUARY 2022

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TRIED & TESTED HOTEL

Mandarin Oriental, New York B A C K G R O U N D Hong Kong-based Mandarin Oriental opened its New York property – one of 33 worldwide – almost two decades ago. It features 244 rooms, including 46 suites and with a prime location on Columbus Circle, boasts some of the best views in Manhattan – of Central Park, The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the Hudson River.

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R O O M S Every room and suite offers Manhattan skyline views and five-star elegance, from the furniture and flooring to the sumptuous bathrooms kitted out with robes, luxury soaps and lotions and large baths. The high-quality bed promises a five-star snooze. The Hudson River rooms and suites overlook the famous river. As you enter, a hallway with hardwood flooring leads you to the living room with two sofas and a large TV and dining table. The bedroom boasts a large bed, lounge chair, and more city skyline views. The granite and marble bathroom features a bathtub, glass-enclosed shower, and the signature high-tech MO toilet with its warm seat and many controls.

BEST FOR Location, views, ambience, service

DON’T MISS A treatment at The Spa

PRICE From US$1,595 per night

CONTACT 80 Columbus Circle, New York; mandarinoriental.com

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? As you enter via Columbus Circle you take an elevator to the large circular lobby on the 35th floor for check in. At the end of lobby is MO Lounge, an all-day dining venue open from 7am to 11pm and serving drinks and light snacks until midnight, Thursday to Saturday. The lobby’s dark brown and gold colour scheme creates an inviting and cosy space, especially in the winter. Staff are professional, courteous and have mastered the art of hospitality.

Every room and suite offer Manhattan skyline views W H E R E I S I T ? In Columbus Circle’s Deutsche Bank Center, a prime location in the heart of America’s largest city. The hotel provides direct access to the retail, dining and entertainment offering at Columbus Circle via the third floor, is a 10-minute walk to Times Square and the Broadway Theatre District and is 15 minutes from Fifth and Madison Avenues for designer shopping.

F O O D A N D D R I N K The MO Lounge serves contemporary American cuisine and sophisticated cocktails, with views of Columbus Circle, Central Park, and the city as the backdrop. Set in a semi-circular room with large windows, the dining space is intimate for an evening meal and offers an optimistic light-filled setting for breakfast.

B U S I N E S S High-rise meeting and function rooms, complemented by MO’s

signature Mindful Meetings concept, incorporating wellness elements designed to inspire, engage and deliver results.

L E I S U R E A gym, indoor pool and The

Spa, a five-star facility with a reputation as one of the best spas on the U.S East Coast. It offers six treatment rooms, a VIP Spa Suite, a Yoga Suite, separate male and female heat experiences, including a vitality pool and amethyst crystal steam room, and an Oriental Tea Lounge. If you love the arts, this is the hotel for you; with the Lincoln Center close by, you can watch the ballet or catch a jazz or orchestral performance.

The concierge at the Mandarin Oriental can arrange performance visits and other experiences like a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park, private guided city tours, helicopter rides, and more.

V E R D I C T Immaculate service, cosy accommodation, luxury facilities, a prime location and value for money; the MO New York suits discerning travellers who expect the best. Allyson Portee FEBRUARY 2022

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