BTME - September 2021

MIDDLE EAST

SEPTEMBER 2021

businesstraveller.com

24 HOURS IN QATAR

M E E T I N M A LTA

AN ELECTRIC REVOLUTION

PLUS

Discover a Gulf destination with a difference in just one day

This Meditternean gem is ready to stage your next gathering

The Audi e-tron GT ushers a new era for green sports cars

Tried and Tested • Laptops • Responsible Traveller

D N - F R I E N D LY D E S T I N AT I O N S Remote work hotspots revealed

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

CONTENTS

REGULARS 06

UPFRONT

The latest airline and hotel news from around the world 14 RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER

FEATURES 20 U.S. IMMIGRATION PATHWAYS

The American Legal Center navigates routes to U.S. residency 28

MEET IN MALTA

Emirates prioritises environmental performance

Inspiration for your next gathering on this Mediterranean island

24 HOURS IN...

QATAR

MALTA AND THE UAE GROW CLOSER

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Spend a day exploring one of the Gulf ’s most diverse destinations 19

POSTCARD

Marriott tempts you with a complete island buyout in the Maldives

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Two nations strengthen travel and trade ties

IT’S FULL OF SOUTHERN CHARM 40

Discover the best of South Carolina’s quirky city, Charleston

ON THE COVER 45 A DIFFERENT WAY TO SHOP PARIS

Top tips for a trip to La Vallée Village

46 ME XICO’S WELLNESS ESCAPES

Lavish coastal getaways with serenity and space 50

LEAN MACHINES

The latest laptops combine power and portability in one

64 The Langham, London 65 Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park, London 66 Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

From mountain villages to dynamic cities, new remote work hotspots are emerging

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60 flydubai Business Class B737-800 Dubai to Tbilisi

63 Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi

D N - F R I E N D LY D E S T I N AT I O N S

The Audi e-tron GT ushers a new era for sports cars with a green conscience

TRIED & TESTED FLIGHTS, HOTELS, R E S TAU R A N T S

Georgia

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54 AN ELECTRIC REVOLUTION

THE REPORT

62 Marriott Tbilisi,

COVER IMAGE: MATTHIAS ZEITLER FROM PIXABAY

SEPTEMBER 2021

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54 SEPTEMBER 2021

WELCOME

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s humans, we often find it difficult to accept change, but nevertheless, we are quick to adapt when forces out of our control create new circumstances. Pandemic-related challenges have put us all to the test, particularly those of us in the travel community, but where there’s a will, there’s a way and this summer’s travel movements proved the point. We have found a way to make travel work for us, whether we are meeting with friends and loved ones around the world, attending business meetings and events, or travelling with family for a ‘workcation’, such is the growing trend.

It takes planning – we must research the rules and regulations of the destinations to which we are travelling, book PCR tests ahead of travel, and in some instances, factor in stop overs in a secondary location to avoid mandatory hotel quarantine on arrival – but globetrotting is now possible; we just have to be super savvy.

Travel patterns are shifting. Gulf-based residents, in particular expats, are avoiding strict quarantine rules in their home countries by meeting family members in mutual ‘green list’ or ‘amber list’ destinations, with Malta, Italy and Greece all proving popular meeting points over the past few months. As you’d expect, business travel to these destinations is rocketing too as countries set up travel corridors to boost economic activity. Malta has emerged as a hotspot in this respect, targeting Gulf travel and trade, which is one reason the island nation is one of the 190-plus countries heading to Expo 2020 Dubai next month (October) to

shout out the message that it’s open for business (see this issue’s Malta feature for more information).

The red tape we now find ourselves wrapped in when we start planning a trip means that when we do travel, we are staying away for longer and taking our families with us to combine business and leisure.

One- or two-month stays in one or multiple destinations are now the norm for those travelling with children, while longer remotework stints continue to grow in popularity as work-from-home scenarios become permanent.

The global digital nomad (DN) community is now estimated at more than 35 million people and countries around the world have responded, supplementing leisure visitors with remote workers. More than 21 countries now offer a digital nomad visa or have launched a programme targeting this community, while 28 countries offer visas that are DN-friendly, valid for six months or more.

In this issue we take a look at some of the top remote work destinations and what they offer professionals looking for a change of scene. From tiny coastal villages showcasing co-working hubs with a sea breeze to dynamic global cities targeting techpreneurs, there’s something for everyone.

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, Melanie Swan, Allyson Portee, Barbara Beckley, David Phelan, Nat Barnes General Manager – Production S Sunil Kumar Assistant Production Manager Binu Purandaran Production Supervisor Venita Pinto Chief Commercial Officer Anthony Milne Group Sales Manager Dane Hills 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

24 HOURS IN QATAR With the country now open to vaccinated travellers you can explore what’s on offer (Page 16)

DN-FRIENDLY DESTINATIONS New remote work hotspots worth considering (Page 22)

MEET IN MALTA This historic Meditteranean island is open for business and ready for meetings (Page 28)

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SEPTEMBER 2021

UPFRONT

HOTEL UPDATE

UAE, Qatar and Bahrain finally moved from UK Red List THE UAE, QATAR AND BAHRAIN have been

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moved from the UK’s Red List to its Amber List. The new rules, which eliminate the need for all travellers from these countries to complete a mandatory 10-day hotel quarantine on arrival to the UK, were announced on August 4 by the UK’s Secretary of State of Transport, Grant Shapps.

“UAE, Qatar, India and Bahrain will be moved from the Red List to the Amber List.

All changes come into effect Sun 8th August at 4am,” Shapps tweeted.

“While it’s right we continue our cautious approach, it’s great news to open more destinations for people wanting to connect with families, friends and businesses across the globe, all thanks to our successful domestic vaccination programme.”

Amber List status means travellers from these

countries, as well as those who are not fully vaccinated, need to self-isolate for 10 days on arrival to the UK. However, fully vaccinated travellers from the US and European Union can avoid isolation on arrival into the UK if they have one of four approved vaccines: Moderna, AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson Janssen.

UK travellers are also exempt from selfisolation on return from amber list countries such as the UAE – a rule that came into effect from July 19 for all those vaccinated with an NHS-administered vaccine in the UK. UK carrier British Airways has also resumed flights between London and Dubai for the first time since January. A daily service is currently in operation.

ETIHAD RESUMES LONDON AND MANCHESTER SERVICES ETIHAD AIRWAYS has resumed

passenger flights to London (three times daily) and Manchester (daily) following the announcement that the UAE has been added to the UK’s Amber List.

Unvaccinated guests travelling from the UAE are required to present a negative PCR test 72 hours before departure and to undergo 10 days’ home quarantine, as well as follow up COVID-19 tests on day two and day eight. Fully vaccinated guests who had their vaccine administered in the UK, US or Europe are exempt from quarantine and the day eight test.

All 28 weekly services between Abu Dhabi and the UK are operated by a B787 Dreamliner.

Visit etihad.com for flight options and UK entry regulations.

SEPTEMBER 2021

AVANI AND TIVOLI TO LAUNCH IN BAHRAIN Minor Hotels will open its first properties in Bahrain in 2024 – Avani Bilaj Al Jazayer Bahrain Resort and Tivoli Bilaj Al Jazayer Bahrain Resort, each with 110 keys (pictured). They will be located along the main boulevard of new mixed-use development Bilaj Al Jazayer, overlooking the waterfront and sharing a beach club.

STAYBRIDGE SUITES OPENS IN DIC Staybridge Suites Dubai Internet City has opened on Sheikh Zayed Road offering 225 studios and one- and two-bedroom suites, all with living, working and dining areas and a fully equipped kitchen. Facilities include a restaurant serving complimentary breakfast daily, a 24/7 convenience store and a poolside bar lounge, plus flexible meeting and workspaces, a 25-metre infinity pool, and a concept spa with steam sauna.

THREE MORE FOR RADISSON IN KSA Radisson Hotel Group has signed three new properties in Saudi Arabia: Vivid Jeddah Hotel, a member of Radisson Individuals, planned to open in Q4 2021, and the Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah Al Hamra and the Park Inn by Radisson Jeddah Al Hamra, both set to open in Q3 2022.

UPFRONT

Etihad rolls out IATA Travel Pass to seven cities following successful trials

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FOLLOWING SUCCESSFUL TRIALS, Etihad Airways has expanded the IATA Travel Pass to flights between Abu Dhabi and seven destinations across its network: Bangkok, Barcelona, Geneva, Madrid, Milan, New York and Singapore, offering the convenience of a one-stop platform for managing COVID-19 documentation.

To access the IATA Travel Pass, guests need to download the IATA Travel Pass app for Android or iOS where they can add their Etihad Airways travel itinerary, view their travel requirements and securely share their PCR test results.

The IATA Travel Pass app also includes functionality to upload vaccination certificates, opening up opportunities for travel where vaccination is a requirement.

Currently the app is able to accept EU Digital COVID Certificates issued by all 27 member states of the European Union plus Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and Lichtenstein, as well as vaccine certificates from Singapore and Qatar.

As vaccines continue to roll out globally, more travellers around the world will be able to upload their government issued COVID vaccine certificates to facilitate seamless travel. The airline is continuing to work closely with IATA to progressively roll out the digital travel pass to more cities across its route network.

More information, including the installation instructions and list of participating IATA Travel Pass clinics in the UAE and worldwide, can be found at etihad.com/iatatravelpass.

Cathay Pacific introduces Premium Economy on Dubai route PASSENGERS TRAVELLING between Dubai and Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific can now experience

the airline’s Premium Economy product with the roll out of the airline’s Airbus A350-900 on the route.

Premium Economy seats are equipped with a full-length leg-rest, leather-padded footrests, a retractable armrest that can be adjusted and a headrest. They recline by nine inches and have an expanded seat pitch of 40 inches. Other features include a dimmable personal reading light, slide-out cocktail table, larger meal table, in-seat power outlet, and an amenity storage on each seat. The 28 Premium Economy seats are configured in a 2-4-2 cabin layout.

SEPTEMBER 2021

AIR ROUTE UPDATE EMIRATES RESTARTS SERVICES TO GLASGOW Emirates has resumed services from Dubai to Glasgow, with flights running daily from September 1 and operated by a two-class Boeing 777-200LR.

LOT POLISH TO OPREATE DUBAI-WARSAW ROUTE LOT Polish Airlines will launch a three-times-weekly flight between Dubai and Warsaw from September 19. The carrier will operate services from the UAE city to the Polish capital on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.

FLYDUBAI RESTARTS HARGEISA SERVICE flydubai has restarted operations to Hargeisa, flying three times weekly to the capital of Somaliland. The airline also has plans to relaunch its operations to Uganda soon.

THREE MORE FOR WIZZ AIR Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has announced twice-weekly services to Tirana in Albania and Sarajevo in Bosnia & Herzegovina, launching on September 11 and October 3 respectively. The flight to Tirana will operate on Tuesday and Saturday and the service to Sarajevo will run on Wednesday and Sunday.

The airline will also launch three-times-weekly services to Manama in Bahrain on September 9. Visit wizzair.com or the airline’s mobile app (also available in Arabic).

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UPFRONT

Qatar reopens to fully vaccinated international travellers

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QATAR HAS REOPENED its borders to international travellers who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

A new streamlined set of measures designed to make travelling to Qatar as easy as possible, while maintaining the necessary precautions to continue to protect against the spread of COVID-19, were implemented in July. They allow people who are fully vaccinated with vaccines approved for use by the Ministry of Public Health in Qatar to visit the Gulf state without the need for quarantine.

The new arrangements also make it easier for citizens and residents of Qatar to travel in and out of the country,

enabling fully vaccinated people to bypass the quarantine requirement when returning to Qatar.

In order to visit Qatar, international visitors, citizens, and residents must register and upload required documentation including a vaccination certificate, valid PCR test up to 72 hours prior to travel, and personal details through the Ehteraz website (www.ehteraz.gov.qa). Travellers must apply for authorisation through this website (free of charge) at least 12 hours before their planned departure to Qatar.

Visitor visa rules apply for certain nationalities, however, more than 80

QATAR TO OPEN 22 NEW HOTELS THIS YEAR

nationalities can visit Qatar with a free visa on arrival. Those requiring a visitor visa are advised to obtain that before applying for travel authorisation.

Visitors require a confirmed hotel booking to visit Qatar.

All travellers are also required to download and activate the Ehteraz mobile app. This requires a domestic Qatari SIM card, which can be purchased from either Ooredoo or Vodafone on arrival at Hamad International Airport (HIA). Upon activation, visitors can visit malls, restaurants, museums and other public venues, as well as use taxis and public transport.

Qatar Airways and Rwandair announce strategic partnership

QATAR WILL OPEN 22 NEW properties between now and the end

of the year, bringing 5,646 rooms to market, according to the TOPHOTELPROJECTS construction database.

Another 17 projects with 5,677 rooms are planned for completion by the end of 2022, according to researchers, with developers fast-tracking projects in time for the FIFA World Cup, which kicks off on November 21 next year.

There are currently 46 hotel projects spanning 12,999 rooms planned for Qatar, with standout openings including two new properties from Corinthia Hotels, the fastest growing brand in the country; Raffles Lusail Hotel & Residences (pictured) and Fairmont Lusail Hotel & Residences, which will share the iconic Katara Towers; the 235-key ME Doha, opening later this year as part of the DohAlive mixed-use project and featuring business and convention facilities; and Al Mana Edition Hotel West Bay, the “anti-hotel-chain” lifestyle brand by Marriott, which will also include meetings facilities.

SEPTEMBER 2021

QATAR AIRWAYS and Rwandair have signed a new strategic partnership including interline agreements and reciprocal loyalty scheme benefits.

Rwandair said the partnership would “leverage Qatar Airways’ global network and increase access to African destinations”, through an extensive interline agreement across the carrier’s combined 160 destinations via their hubs in Kigali and Doha.

The two airlines recently announced a new loyalty partnership, allowing members of the Rwandair Dream Miles and Qatar Airways Privilege Club schemes to earn and redeem miles across the carriers’ networks.

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UPFRONT

YAS MARINA LAUNCHES F1 RACE WEEK YACHT BERTHING PACKAGES FOR 2021 YAS MARINA has launched its berthing packages for

the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2021, which takes place from December 9 to 12.

Owners and their guests can experience the thrill of the most spectacular motorsport series from the water, with uninterrupted track view berths for yachts ranging 10 to 175 metres.

Non-track view berths are also available for those who favour the glitz and glamour of the event, without all the track-side activity.

Early Bird packages available to yacht owners include a 35 per cent discount for berth bookings made before August 31 and 20 per cent off berth bookings made between September 1 and October 31. Berths can be reserved from December 6 to 13 so patrons can enjoy the entire week’s festivities.

Visit yasmarina.ae

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Malta welcomes UAE travellers with vaccine certificates UAE TRAVELLERS who present an authorised UAE Vaccine

Certificate issued by the Dubai Health Authorities with a readable QR Code can now visit Malta.

All relevant documents must be presented on departure from the UAE to airline officials and upon arrival in Malta to health officials stationed at the airport’s Terminal Temperature Screening Points.

Malta has established itself as a safe island destination in Europe, with a low number of COVID-19 cases. The island destination is home to unspoiled beaches, impressive historical and cultural sights, UNESCO archaeological attractions, and a wide array of fun-packed activities. Visit www.visitmalta.com/en/covid-19 and see this issue’s dedicated Malta feature (page 28).

SEPTEMBER 2021

Hilton and SIXT launch self-drive Alpine offer

HILTON HAS TEAMED UP with SIXT Rent a Car to

launch an Alpine experience for GCC travellers visiting Munich and Vienna. Visitors driving between Munich and Vienna are being offered a 15 per cent discount on car rental and have the option to stay at five different Hilton properties along the way.

The deal, available until September 30, includes many vehicle options, from a sports car for two to minivan that can seat the entire family.

Hotel options include Hilton Munich Park with views of the Alps; Hilton Munich City, within walking distance of the Old Town and shopping districts; Hilton Vienna Park, a newly refurbished property close to the famous ‘Stadtpark’; Hilton Vienna Plaza, with a convenient city centre location; and Hilton Vienna Danube Waterfront, Vienna’s only hotel located by the River Danube and near to the Prater amusement park.

Visit sixt.com/hiltonaplinedreams

WE ARE THE INNOVATORS, NOT THE IMITATORS!

YOUR GATEWAY TO WORLD-CLASS TALENT

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An overview of how the Dubai-based carrier is striving for sustainable operations and much more

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ince 2018, the Emirates Group has combined its annual environmental reporting with its financial reporting, to “provide business context to environmental performance”.

Here, Business Traveller highlights key aspects of the company’s sustainability and environmental performance, as outlined in the 2020-2021 annual report, which is available to download in full online (theemiratesgroup.com/annualreport).

Reducing fuel emissions Emirates has a modern and fuel-efficient fleet with an average age of 6.5 years. It also has a fuel efficiency programme that helps reduce unnecessary fuel burn through the use of a fuel monitoring system, flexible route planning with air navigation partners, air traffic management to develop efficient routes and aircraft weight management to reduce aircraft weight (and thereby fuel burn).

Some of the programme’s most recent initiatives include:

SEPTEMBER 2021

1. The operation of ‘flex tracks’, or flexible routings where the airline partners with air navigation service providers to create the most efficient flight plan for each flight, taking advantage of natural tailwinds, while avoiding headwinds and weather systems.

These efforts have been ongoing since 2003, and the airline has also been working with IATA to extend this routing system across the world as a standard operating procedure where possible.

2. Working with air traffic management providers to develop protocols that enhance operational efficiency. For instance, reducing the number of flights placed into holding patterns, increasing the availability of Free Route Airspace, and developing more efficient routings.

3. Introducing a robust fuel monitoring system and advanced data analytics, which has resulted in reduction of discretionary fuel uplift from crews and dispatchers.

4. Introducing fuel-efficient practices while the aircraft is on the ground, such as: the use

WORDS TOM OTLEY

Environmental performance takes centre stage at Emirates

of ground power units instead of the aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) and switching one or two engines off while taxiing in after landing.

5. The implementation of idle reverse thrust on landing, instead of switching the engines into reverse thrust.

6. The improvement of loading efficiency to HOT match the ideal trim line, STATS resulting in a more aft Centre of Gravity (CG) position and less fuel burn.

YEARS 7. Aircraft weight is the average age management – Emirates of Emirates’ fleet continuously reviews its inflight product and cabin environment to individual solar reduce aircraft weight (and panels on the Emirates Flight thereby fuel burn) without Catering plant compromising on customer rooftop experience. Recent initiatives include the use of data analytics and in MILLION the near future of machine plastic bottles learning (ML) and artificial saved from landfill intelligence (AI) to better and made into economy class forecast potable water uplift blankets in each flight.

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CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Muhammed Tariq, AVP Engineering and Saeed Mohammed, CEO, Emirates Flight Catering on solar rooftop power plant; The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR); Emirates operates a fuel-efficient fleet

8. Moving its cockpit crew entirely to electronic flight bags, which saves weight from the traditional flight bags and also helps its pilots perform flight management tasks more easily and efficiently with less paper.

Well-maintained aircraft contribute to efficient flight operations too. Emirates uses an innovative foam wash technique for cleaning aircraft engines that helps it to save about 200 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year across its fleet. It also utilises a dry wash technique to clean its aircraft, which saves 11 million litres of water annually and keeps the aircraft cleaner for longer.

This reduces the aircraft’s fuel consumption because of less accumulation of dirt and reduces the number of times the aircraft has to be washed to about three times a year.

Emirates has also invested in solar power systems to generate clean electricity at two of the airline’s major facilities in the UAE – Emirates Engine Maintenance Centre and Emirates.

Flight catering The Emirates Flight Catering solar rooftop power plant has 8,112 individual solar panels and is expected to generate 4,195 megawatt-hours of electricity annually, allowing the company to reduce traditional energy consumption by 15 per cent across its laundry, food manufacturing and staff accommodation facilities. Consequently, EKFC’s carbon dioxide emissions will decrease by three million kilogrammes annually – the equivalent of the annual electricity use of 518 family homes.

It is also planning to build the world’s largest vertical farming facility in a joint

venture with US-based Crop One, an industry leader. The 130,000 sqft controlled environment facility will produce 2,700 kilogrammes of high quality, herbicideand pesticide-free leafy greens daily, using 99 per cent less water than outdoor fields.

Its location will enable quick delivery of fresh products within hours of harvest, maintaining the food’s nutritional value and reducing carbon emissions associated with transportation. These two installations are expected to produce savings of up to 3.8 million kilogrammes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.

Carbon emissions On carbon emissions, the airline says that as well as the above efficiency measures, it supports the development and introduction of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) through the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

It is also encouraging the development of a commercially viable supply chain for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and conducting trials of, and purchasing, electric and hybrid ground equipment and vehicles to replace diesel-fuelled equipment.

As yet, the airline has not released details of this, saying it “continues to explore partnership opportunities in the few destinations on its network where SAF is being made available, and is reviewing longer-term prospects for technologies such as power-to-liquid fuels”.

Responsible operations Emirates also states it is “committed to responsible consumption by making careful decisions about what items we purchase, how we source them, how we manage disposal of waste and how we consume water and power”.

Due to the large scale of the airline’s operations, “even a small change can make a big positive impact with low-carbon footprint”, it says, noting there are between 50,000 to 60,000 items on each Emirates flight, from the food served to the toiletries, safety equipment and bed linen.

It also “prioritises suppliers that can demonstrate ethical and sustainable practices while delivering good value and quality”.

For example, its tea supplier, Dilmah Tea, has achieved carbon neutrality, ensuring that tea options served in all cabin classes are sustainable. The airline has also used economy class blankets made from recycled plastic bottles since 2017. This has so far saved 95 million bottles from landfill.

Protecting biodiversity Emirates has actively supported fragile habitats since 1999 when it established the Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa in Dubai featuring a 27 sqkm conservation reserve for the protection of desert fauna and flora.

In its first years, 70 Arabian Oryx were reintroduced, and 6,000 indigenous trees and shrubs planted. This became the foundation for the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR), which was created in 2003 and expanded the protected land area to 225 sqkm. Representing about five per cent of Dubai’s total land area, this is the biggest piece of land Dubai has dedicated to a single project. Emirates funds the DDCR and sits on its management board.

Following the success of Al Maha and the DDCR, in 2009, Emirates opened the Emirates One & Only Wolgan Valley, a conservation-based resort that occupies one per cent of a 2,800-hectare nature reserve in the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area (in NSW, Australia). On opening, it was the first carboNZerocertified hotel in the world. Emirates invested more than $94.1 million into this project to ensure the conservation of the unique biodiversity of this valley and has since planted in excess of 175,000 native trees and shrubs across the site.

Emirates stresses it has “zero tolerance on carrying banned species, hunting trophies or any products associated with illegal wildlife activities”. Its ground-handling colleagues are trained in IATA’s Live Animal Regulations and its own internal policies on carrying wildlife, with frontline employees trained to recognise and report suspicious cargo.

SEPTEMBER 2021

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24 HOURS IN . . .

Qatar

WORDS GEMMA GREENWOOD SEPTEMBER 2021

As Qatar looks ahead to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ the country is fast emerging as a global destination hotspot

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quick 24-hour trip to Qatar, which is now possible for many vaccinated travellers, gives you the chance to explore one of the Middle East’s most authentic, yet modern destinations.

Offering a safe and enticing introduction to the best of the Gulf, Qatar is rich in Islamic tradition and Arabic heritage, while embracing an international mindset. With a diverse range of attractions on offer, the nation has something for everyone, even if you are visiting just for the day.

Wander around Souq Waqif and Msheireb Downtown Doha

Start your day exploring the Souq Waqif, which is bursting with

authentic charm. Idyllic for culture seekers, it’s considered one of the most historic spots in Doha and if you’re a shopper, it’s the place to buy local souvenirs, including traditional Qatari garments, spices, and beautiful handicrafts. Just around the corner is Msheireb Downtown Doha, the world’s first sustainable regeneration project. An ultramodern development featuring stunning contemporary architecture, the neighbourhood presents a fascinating contrast to the Souq Waqif. The impressive area is home to mosques, museums, restaurants, and luxury hotels. These spectacular landmarks, located closely together, capture the essence of Qatar: a blend of authenticity and modernity in one small place.

Try a traditional Qahwa coffee at Qatar’s Persian bolt hole

Enjoy a mid-morning pick-me-up at Parisa Souq Waqif, which serves traditional Qatari tea and worldfamous Qahwa coffee. Savour this mesmerising experience, enhanced by the Persian décor and if you’ve worked up an appetite already, deliciously prepared snacks and mezze-style dining are available too.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: National Museum of Qatar; Souq Waqif; a traditional dhow boat at West Bay

Delve into Qatar’s history at the National Museum of Qatar

This magnificent museum exhibits the heart of Qatari culture and houses the newly restored Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al-Thani. A true representation of Qatar’s national identity, you will discover the rich history of the Qatari culture and SEPTEMBER 2021

24 HOURS IN . . .

performances and poetry readings, it’s an engaging way to experience Qatar’s cultural nuances. Located on the eastern coast between West Bay and The Pearl, the village is easily accessible from anywhere in town. katara.net/en 18

Pamper yourself at Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Katara Cultural Village; the spa at Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa; end your day with a desert BBQ in a Bedouin-style tent

people. Designed to be immersive and experiential, the museum is spread over 11 galleries and has 1.5km of walkways, presenting an in-depth exploration of the country’s three main ‘chapters’ — ‘Beginnings’, ‘Life in Qatar’ and ‘The Modern History of Qatar’. qm.org.qa

Lunch at Jiwan in the National Museum of Qatar

Located on the fourth floor of the museum, Jiwan promises impressive bay views and a locally inspired menu encompassing the rich flavours of Qatar. Ancient Bedouin elemental cooking techniques — fire, water, air, and earth — are used to transform familiar flavours and textures into delicious dishes that nicely round off a morning of cultural immersion.

SEPTEMBER 2021

Admire Doha from the water on a dhow boat cruise

What better way to admire the impressive cityscape of Doha than from the decks of a traditional dhow boat.

The hour-long trip takes you on a laidback cruise around the scenic West Bay and Al Safliya Island. Qatar has a proud history of seafaring and exploring the coast by dhow boat is the perfect way to unwind and absorb Qatari culture from a different perspective.

Take a trip to the amphitheatre at Katara Cultural Village

The Katara Amphitheatre, an architectural masterpiece that blends elements of classical Greek theatres with Islamic features, stands majestically at the centre of the Katara Cultural Village. From art exhibitions to live

The first Luxury Collection resort in Doha, Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, is a village-style oasis with lavish rooms, signature suites and private pool villas.

The resort has a 14,000-square-metre wellness facility with 22 treatment rooms and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. It’s an idyllic way to spend an afternoon relaxing and enjoying Qatar’s world-class hospitality. marriott.com

End your day in the desert dunes

With 11,437 square kilometres of desert located less than an hour from Doha, Qatar is the ideal location for a desert safari. Jump in a four-wheeldrive vehicle or if you prefer, hop on the back of a camel and head to a dining destination in the dunes. For a bespoke experience, opt for a private chef who will prepare a delicious Qatari feast and BBQ in a Bedouinstyle tent. Dine by candlelight with undisturbed views of the endless starry skies for a memorable end to an action-packed day. visitqatar.qa

POSTCARD

MALDIVES

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A complete buyout Why share an island when you can have one all to yourself?

Tapping into demand for exclusivity, privacy and seclusion in a mid-pandemic age, Marriott is offering complete island buyouts at three of its properties in the Maldives. Choose from W Maldives, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa or The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort for any purpose you see fit – perhaps a corporate retreat, a remotework break, a family getaway or an indulgent wellness escape? Accessible by speedboat or seaplane from Velana International Airport, Male, each resort is located on its own private island and takeover deals include access to

all rooms and facilities. Bespoke buyout experiences offer add-ons such as dinner by the beach with live music to fireworks displays, a sunset cruise, a luxurious massage by the ocean, and even an open-air movie night. At W Maldives (pictured) in North Ari Atoll, prices start from US$199,000 per night for a minimum stay of three nights with accommodation for up to 150 guests available. Each villa has its own plunge pool and sundeck and resort facilities include six creative gourmet dining venues and lounge bars, overwater treatment rooms at AWAY ® Spa and the DOWN UNDER house reef. Gemma Greenwood

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U S M I G R AT I O N I N V E S T M E N T

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Exploring US immigration pathways Shai Zamanian, US Licensed Lawyer and Migration Specialist at The American Legal Center, based in Dubai, navigates the complex world of visas and routes to US residency

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hroughout the history of the United States, immigration has been integral to the nation’s growth and development, delivering economic, social, and cultural heightening.

The global movement of people in search of a brighter and better future for themselves and their families continues to drive the interconnectedness of the world. However, with time and the introduction of

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systematic approaches, as well as different political agendas, immigration procedures have become more complex and confusing.

Imagine you wanted to immigrate to the US today; would you know which immigration programme would be best for your family or even your career trajectory?

Most likely you would not as regulations imposed by the former Trump administration are different to those introduced by President Biden. The truth is that with so many different visa categories on offer, most people are unaware which immigration programme best suits their personal and family circumstances.

Why the move to the United States?

Understanding the reason and ultimate goal for your move will help steer you towards the best visa category aligned to your objectives. If you are moving solely for work purposes or studies, then you must explore the non-immigrant visas. These are renewable visas that limit the time you can stay in the country. They do not provide a pathway to a Green Card or citizenship but facilitate the short-term needs of an individual. However, if your main objective is to relocate your family or simply starting afresh, you should explore the immigrant visa options. These provide foreign nationals with the opportunity to obtain a US Green Card and eventually become US passport holders.

US VISA TOP FIVE

Here are the five most popular US visa pathways:

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EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa for Permanent Residency

This programme is ideal for families looking to move within two years or those who wish to send their children to US-based schools. It grants immediate privileges such as access to free education but does come with a price tag that not everyone can afford.

The EB-5 investor visa requires prospective investors to invest a minimum of US$500,000 into a US-approved commercial enterprise. This channel is the quickest path to US residency and provides an opportunity for citizenship. On approval of the application, investors receive a US Green Card and residency for themselves, spouse and children under the age of 21.

This is the perfect visa pathway for families looking to settle down in the US as once they obtain their Green Card, they receive the same benefits as US citizens including free public-school education, access to federal grants and scholarships, increased work opportunities and much more.

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E-2 Treaty Investor Visa for Temporary Stay

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H1-B Visa for Temporary Skilled Worker

Ideal for young entrepreneurs looking to launch their business idea or company in the US, this visa offers quick access. To participate, your country of citizenship must have a trade treaty agreement with the US. Under this visa category investors typically invest between $100,000 to $250,000 in either their own business or an existing franchise. Investors obtain a two-year renewable visa for themselves, spouse and children. While this route is cheaper than the EB-5, it does not provide for permanent residency and a Green Card. It also requires the visa be linked to the investor’s business, which means that should the business fail, the visa is cancelled. In addition, the investor is not permitted to work for another company on this visa.

Those who possess a degree that qualifies as a special occupation service are eligible for the H1-B visa.

Often used by multinational companies in the technology industry, this visa allows companies to utilise external talents for the progression of their business. The basic requirement under this category is that applicants must hold a degree equivalent to a US Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. The degree must be relevant to the specialised role for which they are applying. On approval, the applicant will hold the visa for a period of three years with an option of renewability, but no longer than six years per issuance. While under the programme, spouses and unmarried children can apply to reside in the US, however, they are required to submit a separate application to gain legal entry.

“The EB-5 investor visa requires prospective investors to invest a minimum of US$500,000 into a USapproved commercial enterprise”

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B1/B2 Tourist or Business Visa without Work Authorization

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Family Petitions for Reunification and Permanent Stay

The simplest way to visit and access the United States, this visa category is mostly used by tourists to stay in the country for up to six months. This temporary stay is intended for tourism or business meetings and there is no work authorisation provided with this visa category, thus you cannot apply for employment or seek government benefits as you are a temporary visitor. These visas are usually provided at nearby consulates or online using the US government Electronic System for Travel Authorization website.

As a matter of public policy, the United States tries to keep families together. Thus, if you have an immediate family member that is living in the US, you could ask them to petition on your behalf to allow you to reunify and grant US residency by way of this family connection. Be aware, however, that priority is provided to spouses and unmarried children as those petitions are usually approved in under one year. For parents, siblings, or other relatives, it could take many years until the petition is approved.

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CLOCKWISE FROM RIGHT: The American Legal Center specialises in the EB-5 visa; The US offers many immigration pathways; Shai Zamanian

THE AMERICAN LEGAL CENTER The American Legal Center, based in Dubai, specialises in the EB-5 visa. Its team of US licensed lawyers guides clients through the government programme administered through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, the agency responsible for granting visas. To date, the center has processed more than 500 Green Cards for GCC families. Visit america.ae

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WORDS GEMMA GREENWOOD

REMOTE WORK

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From mega cities to island villages, new remote work hotspots are opening up all over the globe

DN-FRIENDLY DESTINATIONS SEPTEMBER 2021

IMAGE BY MATTHIAS ZEITLER FROM PIXABAY

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he global digital nomad community is now estimated at more than 35 million people with an economic value of some US$787 billion. If it were a country, it would rank number 41 by population size, just after Canada (37.59 million) and Morocco (36.47 million), and it would be the 38th most prosperous country based on gross national income per capita, ranking just after Portugal ($23,200 average income per person) and Saudi Arabia ($22,840).

While most like to globetrot, a recent poll of 4,000-plus digital nomads (also known as ‘DNs’), conducted by abrortherabroad.com, revealed what factors entice this community to stay put in one destination for a while.

Cost of living and fast, accessible internet were the priorities when choosing a location (56 per cent), as well as safety (15 per cent), access to nature (11 per cent) and ‘DN-friendly’ visas (9 per cent).

Mexico was hosting the most digital nomads (14 per cent) at the time of the survey (Q1 2021), while 11 per cent were in Thailand and eight per cent were in Portugal. Nine of the 10 preferred locations for digital nomads were coastal.

However, another study suggests big cities have just as much DN pulling

power. The Work-from-Anywhere Index by global housing rental platform Nestpick ranked Melbourne in Australia as the best city for remote working, followed by Dubai (UAE), Sydney (Australia), Tallin (Estonia) and London (UK). Nestpick’s index ranked 75 cities around the globe on a variety of factors related to working from home, including costs and infrastructure, taxes, freedom, safety and livability.

Given the size of the DN community, the growth of which has accelerated in the wake of the pandemic, more than 21 countries have created a digital nomad visa or launched a programme targeting digital nomads, while 28 countries offer visas that are DN-friendly, valid for six months or more.

Travel insurance comparison site InsureMyTrip recently examined data for countries with remote working visas to assess which ones offered the best and worst opportunities for digital nomads.

The study analysed categories including internet access and speed, apartment rental costs, language difficulty, openness to digital nomads, cost and access to a work visa and length of the remote working visa.

Norway ranked first scoring 7.88 out of a possible 10. Its highest scores were for length of remote working visa (10), nomad acceptance (9.1), happiness (9.9) and internet speed (7.4). The top nine ranking countries after Norway were Mexico, Germany, Portugal, Iceland, Greece, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Spain and Bermuda respectively.

Norway, along with Portugal and Greece, are three countries that do not limit a worker’s stay on a remote working visa and allow an indefinite stay as long as the necessary requirements are met.

The UAE scored well for the cost of its remote work visa (8.57), which is significantly cheaper than more expensive countries like Antigua and Barbados.

Perhaps one of the most comprehensive resources for current or would-be digital nomads is nomadlist.com, which provides detailed rankings across multiple criteria, guides, reviews and much more. Factors considered include quality of life, happiness, education, healthcare, life expectancy, gender equality, cost of living and even the weather.

Its list of fastest-growing remote work hubs in 2021, based on check-ins to places made by tens of thousands of Nomad List members using live data (136,083 check-ins), reveals Mexico remains a hotspot, with Cancun ranking first, Playa del Carmen ranking second, Tulum ranking fifth and Mexico City ranking seventh. In third and fourth place are Tenerife (Canary Islands) and Dubai (UAE) respectively, while Miami (US), Split (Croatia), Medellin (Colombia) and Denver (US) also rank in the top 10 at sixth, eighth, ninth and tenth place respectively.

“Remote work is now on an exponential trajectory and growing fast,” says Nomad List. “With its growth, thousands of destinations, from tiny surf villages to cosmopolitan mega cities, are now competing to attract remote workers.”

Here, Business Traveller takes a glance at three new remote work hotspots for 2021.

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MADEIRA

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urope’s first dedicated digital nomad village opened in Madeira – one of two autonomous regions of Portugal – in February this year.

Digital Nomads Madeira is located in the village of Ponta do Sol on the volcanic island’s south coast and offers remote workers a raft of benefits including a free workspace with desk and chair at the John Do Passos Cultural Centre, access to a Slack community, plus complimentary Wi-Fi from 8am to 10pm daily.

The project, developed by the Regional Government of Madeira through Startup Madeira and with the help of a digital nomad consultant, has also teamed up with local businesses such as real estate companies, hotels, and rental car firms to provide essential services to visiting nomads.

There is no charge to use the co-working space and be part of the community, but a minimum one-month stay is required.

According to Digital Nomads Madeira, Ponta do Sol offers the “perfect conditions for nomads looking for warm weather, sun, and a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by nature”.

The programme also includes events and activities to facilitate connections between digital nomads and the local community. Digital Nomads Madeira can host 100 nomads and is bookable online.

The Madeira islands were voted the World’s Leading Island Destination for the sixth consecutive year at the World Travel Awards 2020.

The region is also working with SGS to ensure all tourism businesses adhere to strict health and safety measures to minimise the risk of the spread of COVID19. A certification process, available to all companies in the tourism sector, is identifiable under the ‘Madeira Safe to Discover’ label. In addition, most companies have adopted the ‘Clean & Safe’ stamp created by VisitPortugal.

The creation of a DN village at Ponta do Sol has started a trend in Madeira, which is an archipelago of four islands, and now, a team of local entrepreneurs in Santa Cruz – known for its beaches and diving spots – are developing HubRemotely, a new workspace for digital nomads.

New co-working spaces are also popping up in Madeira’s capital, Funchal, as this island nation sets its sights on wooing remote workers. Cowork Funchal (coworkfunchal.com) is currently offering a 10 per cent discount for visiting digital nomads. digitalnomads.startupmadeira.eu SEPTEMBER 2021

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ABOVE: Ponta do Sol is home to Digital Nomads Madeira LEFT: Cape Town is emerging as a global tech start-up hub

CAPE TOWN

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nother up-and-coming DN-friendly destination is Cape Town, which recently launched its Digital Nomad Remote Working campaign.

The South African city was ranked number 16 in the Nestpick Workfrom-Anywhere Index, recognised for its low cost of living, good weather and the rights afforded to its citizens. Co-working space quality and variety, expat-friendliness and spectacular nature are also key selling points, as noted by Nomad List, while the city has received the Safe Travels Stamp from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).

Having identified the opportunity to attract digital nomads, the city’s mayoral committee member for economic opportunities and asset management, James Vos, is lobbying the government to introduce a remote work visa with a lifespan of more than three months.

If you’re an ITC solutions professional or investor in the sector, Cape Town is more than ‘one to watch’.

In 2020, some US$88 million was ploughed into tech start-ups in the city – “the highest investments made in South Africa during the period” – according

to Wesgro, the official tourism, trade and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape.

Already home to heavyweights such as Naspers, Takealot, Aerobotics, Clickatell, GetSmarter, Yoco and Sweepsouth, Cape Town’s tech ecosystem keeps expanding, with US retail giant Amazon now poised to boost its presence. It recently announced plans to set up its headquarters in a new mega R4 billion ($270 million) mixed-use development with commercial and residential components.

Regularly ranked among the “top emerging start-up ecosystems” as well as “top tech employment hubs”, Cape Town is now counted among the fastest-growing regions for foreign direct investment (FDI), suggests Wesgro.

The Cape Town-Stellenbosch corridor plays host to 450 tech firms employing more than 40,000 people, an ecosystem larger than those of Nairobi and Lagos combined. It is also favoured by venture capitalists, with the Western Cape accounting for the highest number of VC firms in the country.

Wesgro highlights that Cape Town’s co-working spaces, developer talent, edtech hubs and digital skills training academies, universities, as well as ease of doing business, make it a top contender for Africa’s tech capital status. The city also hosts 38 per cent of total developers in South Africa.

Add to the mix the Western Cape’s 30-plus co-working spaces – the highest number in Africa – and the 715 free Wi-Fi spots in Cape Town alone, and this is a remote work hotspot for techpreneurs in the making. capetown.travel SEPTEMBER 2021

DUBAI

DUBAI TOURISM

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ince launching its virtual remote working programme in October 2020, Dubai has risen through the ranks to become the second most popular city destination globally for digital nomads, according to the Nestpick Work-from-Anywhere Index.

The city was recognised for its 0 per cent income tax, favourable legislation, robust infrastructure, livability and even its high COVID-19 vaccination rate.

Another study by resume.oi, a Netherlands-based CV-building platform, found Dubai was the most popular beach city for digital nomads, with 27,007 Instagram users tagging #digitalnomad on their posts.

The analysis of 90,000 @digitalnomad posts also found the emirate was the second most popular destination in the Middle East and Central Asia.

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“Dubai is a great place for digital nomads to stay while globetrotting,” resume.io said. “It’s one of the only places on the list to have a virtual working visa, allowing people access to schools, utilities and more.”

Dubai, and the UAE, have been recognised for setting a global model for dealing with COVID-19. The emirate, which opened to international tourists on July 7, 2020 – one of the first globally to do so successfully in the wake of the pandemic – has implemented robust safety and hygiene protocols that enabled the reopening of most sectors and destination offerings across the city, including hotels, restaurants, attractions, water and theme parks, beaches, shopping malls and schools and universities The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) awarded Dubai the Safe Travels Stamp in acknowledgement of its efforts to ensure the highest standards of hygiene and COVID-19 precautionary measures. The emirate also introduced the ‘Dubai Assured’ stamp to certify that establishments have implemented all public health protocols for the prevention and management of COVID-19.

The virtual working programme, valid for one year, is priced $611 and grants access to the services available to all residents, including telecoms, banking, utilities, education and accommodation. At the same time, many hotel groups are offering favourable remote work packages including complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry, discounted F&B and car rental, and more. To be eligible for the Dubai programme you must earn at least $5,000 per month.

Like Cape Town, Dubai has set its sights on growing its tech sector and in July this year, the government launched the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, charged with the task of transforming the emirate into a global technology hub and attracting investment in e-commerce and emerging technologies.

REMOTE WORK

Dubai is a great place for digital nomads to stay while globetrotting

DN VISA TOP 10 1. Antigua & Barbuda offers the Nomad Digital Residence (NDR) visa for two years, priced $1,500 for one person, $2,000 for a couple and $3,000 for a family of three or more (antiguanomadresidence.com) 2. The Barbados Welcome Stamp is a 12-month visa for remote workers that can be renewed and is priced $2,000. (barbadoswelcomestamp.bb) 3. The Work from Bermuda visa, an expansion of the former residency programme, allows you to stay for up to a year and is priced just $263.

4. The Cayman Islands has launched the Global Citizen Certificate (GCC) permitting travellers to stay for up to two years. The application price is $1,469. (visitcaymanislands.com) 5. Dubai’s virtual working programme, valid for one year, is priced $611 inclusive of application fees, processing costs, medical and Emirates ID. (visitdubai.com) 6. Estonia offers a one-year digital nomad and freelancer visa. There are two types of digital nomad visas: Type C (short stay) costs €80, and Type D (long stay) costs €100. (e-resident.gov.ee/nomadvisa/) Tallinn, Estonia

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Members of the chamber’s board include founders of local success stories such as Careem, Souq.com, Bayt.com and Propertyfinder.

It is part of a new three-chamber structure, which also comprises Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Dubai Chamber of International Trade.

During the board’s first meeting it announced a roadmap with the aim of accelerating the growth of Dubai’s digital economy and doubling the number of digital companies operating in the emirate in the coming years.

“This roadmap will elevate Dubai’s position as a global leader in digital economy, and attract specialised talent, leading companies and new investments to the market.

Homegrown success stories such as Careem and Souq have boosted Dubai’s appeal as a hub for e-commerce and digital economy, and we hope to raise the bar even higher by attracting other global players that can support the emirate’s digital economy ambitions and innovation ecosystem,” says H.E. Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Chairman of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy.

The formation of three chambers of commerce is aimed at supporting international trade and the digital economy and a five-year plan to increase Dubai’s foreign trade from AED 1.4 trillion ($382 billion) to AED 2 trillion ($545 billion) over the next five years. visitdubai.com

7. Malta has launched a Digital Nomad Residence Permit specifically targeting remote workers from outside the EU, luring them with its weather and strong internet infrastructure (including nationwide 5G service). The visa admin fee is €300. (residencymalta.gov.mt) 8. Mauritius is offering a free one-year Premium Visa. There’s no catch – you just need to produce proof of your long stay plans and sufficient travel and health insurance during your stay. (edbmauritius.org/premium-visa) 9. DN hotspot Mexico offers a six-month tourist visa and a Temporary Resident Visa valid for one year and renewable for another three. (consulmex.sre.gob.mx) 10. Portugal offers a temporary resident visa (D7 passive income visa) and a residence permit for independent workers and entrepreneurs visa for one year. It can be renewed for up to five years and after that, you can apply for permanent residency. (vistos.mne.gov.pt) Note that terms and conditions do apply to these visas, some of which include minimum salary requirements. (Source: expertvagabond.com)

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D E S T I N AT I O N S

Meet in Malta The historic island in the middle of the Mediterranean is ready for gatherings – here is some inspiration for your next get together 28

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D E S T I N AT I O N S

WORDS TOM OTLEY

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PICTURED: Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Valletta SEPTEMBER 2021

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ABOVE: View of Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel at Valletta

GETTY IMAGES; THE MALTA TOURISM AUTHORITY

RIGHT: Dining at Casa Rocca Piccola

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or those who appreciate history, Malta has all you could wish for in a destination, and probably much more than the Maltese wanted for themselves. Sieges, wars, ancient orders of Knights and attacking Ottomans, it has a maritime history stretching back into the mists of time with the Phoenicians and Carthaginians and would always have been a natural stopping-off point between Italy and North Africa.

During the Second World War, Malta was the most bombed place on earth, enduring a nearcontinuous attack in 1942 lasting 154 days. Its museums have lasting tributes to the heroism of the Maltese, and the whole island was given the George Cross for valour by King George VI, which can be viewed in the National War Museum in Valletta, its capital.

Today, Malta is a tourist destination – still, there’s a lot of competition in Europe for tourists, and Malta’s beaches aren’t its strongest point when

compared with, say, Sardinia or Ibiza. Instead what you get is a unique mix of history, language and identity, the result of its geographical position in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea. This also makes it perfectly placed as a meeting point, with flights landing at Malta International airport from major hubs across Europe and the Gulf. On arrival, the fabulously scenic destinations of Valletta, Mdina, Rabat and the Three Cities on the other side of the Grand Harbour will seduce first-time visitors and remind regulars of the distinctive appeal of this destination.

There’s more to explore than just the main island – sister islands Gozo and Comino also have a wealth of attractions. At a time when travel is starting to resume, Malta is open and hoping that leisure and business visitors, and then meeting and incentive groups, will arrive in numbers. No one knows what the future will hold for the rest of the year, but one thing can be certain – if anyone will get through 2021, it will be the Maltese.

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MALTA CASA ROCCA PICCOLA

This 16th-century palace was home to the ninth Marquis de Piro – still a family home, it is now open to the public for tours as well as offering some spaces for private hire. Guides are on hand to highlight the history of the house and point out the tunnels that were cut into rock to create bomb shelters during the Second World War. Located close to the Grandmaster’s Palace on Republic Street, Valletta’s main road, Casa Rocca Piccola’s event spaces include La Giara, the summer dining room, which seats up to 22 guests, and a 100 sqm garden for drinks on balmy evenings. casaroccapiccola.com SEPTEMBER 2021

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Dramatic cannonstudded terraces can be hired for memorable gatherings under the stars

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FORTS ST ELMO AND ST ANGELO

Malta’s two most iconic forts have honey-coloured limestone bastions that glow in the evening light in every tourist’s photographs. Once defenders of the Grand Harbour, they are now tourist attractions both inside and out, offering museums, tours and re-enactments as well as hosting mid-sized conferences, meetings and events. Each fort has historic rooms available for hire, along with dramatic cannon-studded terraces for memorable gatherings under the stars – St Elmo’s can accommodate up to 2,000 guests for a drinks reception and provides stunning views across Marsamxett harbour.

Fort St Elmo sits opposite the Mediterranean Conference Centre on the Valletta peninsula (see overleaf ), while Fort St Angelo is on the opposite bank looking back at Valletta, which is beautifully lit at night. Both were central to the Great Siege in 1565 when the Knights defeated the invading Turks. St Angelo was the Knights’ first base in Malta and the Royal Navy’s last. The creek where the Knights moored their galleys and the British their warships is now a yacht marina and pleasant waterfront area.

Indoors, both castles have halls suitable for conferences – St Elmo’s seating 90 delegates and St Angelo’s 160 – as well as more intimate rooms for smaller meetings. exclusivevenues.org

ANTICLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Fort St Elmo; Fort St Angelo; central courtyard at St Elmo; fashion event at Fort St Angelo HERITAGE MALTA; GETTY IMAGES

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APPLAUDING THE LEADERS BUILDING THE REGION’S TECH FUTURE

Launching October 2021

VOTE PROCESSING PARTNER

PRESENTED BY

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The MCC’s long halls are impressive before they are even dressed for the occasion

TOP ROW, FROM LEFT: Malta Maritime Museum; Birgu marina in front of the museum; Palazzo Parisio garden party RIGHT: The Club House at Gianpula Village

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GIANPULA VILLAGE: CLUB HOUSE, VAULT AND PENTHOUSE

Gianpula Village is Malta’s nightclub destination with several venues that can be used for private events. These include the Club House, a converted 16th-century hunting lodge that can hold 150 people seated or 500 standing. This is connected to the Vault, a subterranean former stables capable of hosting 300 delegates for a reception or 70 seated. Above the Club House is the open-air Penthouse, which offers panoramic views and accommodates 500 guests standing or 100 for a sit-down event. axeventsmalta.com

MALTA MARITIME MUSEUM

Housed in the Old Naval bakery, the Malta Maritime Museum documents the island’s seafaring history and its impact on society. Available for hire is St Angelo Hall, a flexible space that can host 150 delegates for a banquet or 250 for a reception.

An adjoining terrace overlooks picturesque Birgu marina and can be used for smaller drinks parties. exclusivevenues.org

MEDITERRANEAN CONFERENCE CENTRE

The Mediterranean Conference Centre is located in Valletta in the converted 16th-century Sacra Infermeria, the hospital of the Knights of Malta. Stretching 155 metres and covering 1,700 sqm, the former Long Ward (now the Sacra Infermeria Hall) is one of the longest halls in Europe, holding 1,500 diners or 2,500 standing. Another former ward, La Vallette, has wonderful vaulted ceilings and accommodates 900 guests for a banquet or 1,500 for a reception. These venues are complemented by a 1,400-capacity auditorium in the former central

GETTY IMAGES

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SECOND ROW, FROM LEFT: Mediterranean Conference Centre; Palazzo Parisio

courtyard of the hospital, and the Grand Terrace roof terrace, offering splendid views and hosting 600 guests. The MCC can cater for up to 4,000 delegates per day so is ideal for a major event with breakout sessions or teambuilding activities but is also superb for a gala dinner – the long halls are impressive even before they are dressed for the occasion. mcc.com.mt

PALAZZO PARISIO

Situated in Naxxar in the north of the island, and surrounded by beautifully tended gardens that are perfect for cocktail receptions (for 1,000 people) or dinner (for 400), the opulent Palazzo Parisio has been owned by the same family since 1898. Some of its spaces are available for private events, such as the grand rococo ballroom, which can hold

glamorous gala dinners for 120 people. Drinks for 400 guests can be held on the palace’s first floor. Other options include the Sala Lombarda, accommodating 60 delegates for banqueting or 100 for a reception, and the Pompeian dining room, which seats 24 guests at a long, elegant table. Tours of the palace and gardens can also be arranged. palazzoparisio.com SEPTEMBER 2021

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THE XARA PALACE

Housed in a converted 17th-century palazzo, the Xara Palace is the only hotel inside Mdina’s ancient city walls. A five-star member of Relais and Chateaux, it has 17 rooms and suites. Its fine dining restaurant, De Mondion, and the more casual Trattoria AD 1530 can be used for gatherings, while receptions for 120 guests can be held in the property’s atrium, which is inspired by a Moroccan riad. xarapalace.com.mt

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Verdala Palace; Xara Palace; Xara Lodge; Verdala Palace BOTTOM RIGHT: Oracle Conference Centre

VERDALA PALACE

BRIAN GRECH/ XARA CATERING

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SEPTEMBER 2021

Built in the 16th century, Verdala Palace is located in Buskett Gardens in Siggiewi, on the western side of Malta. A former residence to both Grandmasters and British governors, it is now the summer palace of the president of Malta, who has to grant approval for events to take place there – still, if you’re after a truly special venue then it is worth the effort. president.gov.mt/the-palace-verdala

XARA LODGE

A contemporary reimagining of a traditional Maltese countryside hunting estate, the flexible purpose-built Xara Lodge offers

interconnecting indoor and outdoor spaces of varying sizes that make it popular for corporate events. Spaces include the 450-capacity Minstrel’s Hall and the 100-capacity Drawing Room, plus the pool area, which can accommodate 120 guests. While the location feels secluded, it is situated just south of Mdina and is only 20 minutes from the airport. xaralodge.com

ORACLE CONFERENCE CENTRE

Located in St Paul’s Bay in the north of the island, the Dolmen hotel has 488 rooms and suites and is also home to the Oracle Conference

Centre. This self-contained meeting, entertainment and training venue can host events for up to 1,200 delegates and is kitted out with state-of-theart audio-video equipment. It has both indoor and outdoor spaces, including a main hall, syndicate rooms, breakout spaces and terraces. dolmen.com

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

Painting by Jassim Al Awadhi

The 50th Anniversary Arabian Falcon Navigator Clock

by David Galbraith Photograph by Anthony Lamb

Liddington Clock

by David Galbraith

GETTY IMAGES

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The Citadel is the standout visitor attraction on Gozo, with fascinating sights concealed within 38

TA’ FRENC

GOZO

ABOVE AND TOP: Gozo’s Citadel

CITADEL

RIGHT AND BELOW: Ta’ Frenc

Yes, it’s another fortified city, this time on Gozo. The Citadel of Rabat, also known as Victoria, rises steeply above the surrounding countryside.

It is the standout visitor attraction on the island, with fascinating sights concealed within including the Baroque Cathedral of the Assumption, a military battery, several museums, an old prison and a Second World War shelter. Events for 100 can be held in the moat and for 80 in the Cultural Centre. visitgozo.com SEPTEMBER 2021

This centuries-old farmhouse was converted into a high-end restaurant more than 30 years ago and is special not only for its fine dining but also its characterful spaces. There are a series of venues to choose from, ranging from the main dining room for 60 guests, with a canopied terrace, to a private room and a wine cellar, both seating 20 (the former’s long table is also suitable for a board meeting), a tree-lined, stone-flagged garden, and an all-weather marquee for parties of up to 200 people. tafrenc.mt

Malta and the UAE grow closer WORDS GEMMA GREENWOOD

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The countries are forging stronger ties to promote travel, trade and investment n September, Malta and the UAE announced their intention to strengthen their cooperation, highlighting trade, investment and the fight against economic crime as key areas of focus.

In February, the ministers of foreign affairs of both countries met and signed three memorandums of understanding, one of which set out plans to establish joint committees between the two nations. These agreements marked the next step in a bilateral relationship of 44 years.

According to Christopher Fearne, Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health, “Malta has a lot of shared interests with the UAE”.

“We understand the challenges faced by small countries and we also share many cultural similarities.

Additionally, both countries support public-private partnerships,” he told The Business Report.

“Malta’s government is very willing to cooperate, not just with the UAE government, but also with private enterprises and, vice versa. Maltese private enterprises are open to collaboration with the UAE and the businesses from the Gulf region.”

Investing in Malta

Malta is working hard to woo Gulf business and investment, leveraging its position as a gateway to the European Union market.

“Investing in Malta brings access to the whole of the EU, and also to a wider region due to our country’s strategic location. We are close to the African continent, the MENA region and, by extension, to the Gulf via the shipping routes,” explains Fearne.

“Our advantageous geographical position is complemented by our English-speaking population, welleducated workforce, FDI incentives, solid regulatory framework, and excellent quality of life.”

Over the last seven years, the Maltese economy has doubled in size, growing from EUR7 billion (US$8.29 billion) to EUR14 billion ($16.58 billion). Its health industry, ranked amongst the world’s top 10 in 2018, is also booming on the back of sizeable investments in new hospitals, clinics, and cutting-edge technology, including robotics and artificial intelligence. To enhance its visibility in the Gulf and get the message across that it’s “open for business”, Malta is participating in Expo 2020 Dubai.

ABOVE: Malta is the gateway to the EU market

“We want Malta to be perceived as a hardworking country with a well-educated workforce, diversified economy, and open for foreign direct investment,” says Fearne.

Travel to Malta

On June 1, Malta welcomed back UAE visitors, offering quarantine-free travel to the destination. In response, Emirates resumed its three-timesweekly service to Malta, via Larnaca in Cyprus, on July 14. The flights, which depart Dubai every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, are operated by a two-class Boeing 777-300ER, offering 42 seats in business and 386 seats in economy. Emirates codeshares with flydubai and Air Malta, offering access to the networks of both.

Emirates customers travelling to Malta aged five and above must hold a negative COVID-19 test certificate for a test taken within 72 hours of arrival in Malta. Passengers must also present a completed Passenger Locator Form (PLF) and a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate at check-in to be accepted for travel to Malta.

Fully vaccinated Maltese nationals or Malta residency permit holders may present a Maltese vaccination certificate instead of a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate when returning to Malta. For more details on entry requirements to Malta, customers can check the travel requirements page on emirates.com.

As part of the Incentives for Free Independent Travellers (FIT) scheme launched by the Malta Tourism Authority to boost tourism, Emirates passengers visiting the Maltese Islands for a minimum of three nights can also enjoy discounted rates offered by local hotels in Malta and earn up to EUR200 ($237) credit when booking directly when booking directly through them.

Etihad Airways also operates services to Malta, which at time of press, remained on Abu Dhabi’s green list of destinations.

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D E S T I N AT I O N S

Southern

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CHARM Charleston is a quirky city with history and beauty around every corner, not to mention the satisfying Lowcountry cuisine for which this US state is famous

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obblestone streets, quaint corners with hidden treasures, long avenues with Spanish moss draped from tree to tree, pristine waterfront views, salty marshlands, charming architecture, art galleries, Lowcountry Southern Cooking, and walkable views – this is Charleston, South Carolina, and it’s a must visit.

South Carolina, the eighth state admitted into the union of the United States in 1788, has a unique history. With its name signed to the Declaration of Independence, it joined 12 British colonies and defied the British crown by choosing to secede from Great Britain in 1776. Today, as you walk the streets of Charleston, old world British colonial-style architecture circa 1600s to mid-1700s yells out of symmetrical façades, SEPTEMBER 2021

pillars, columns, and multi-pane windows.

South Carolina was also the first state to secede from the United States in 1860 when the port city of Charleston fired cannons at Fort Sumter, which can be seen today from the Battery.

Now 351 years old, Charleston draws tourists from all over the world. New York City may have skyscrapers that kiss the sky, Chicago may have deep-dish pizza, Texas may have roaming steer, and Los Angeles may have a robust cinema industry that entertains us in our living rooms, but Charleston has charm, some of the best Southern Lowcountry food on offer, amazing hospitality, and captivating nooks and crannies no matter where you turn.

So, put those the bright lights and big city vibes to the side and prepare to be amazed at one of America’s gems.

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WHERE TO STAY

Downtown Charleston is full of cutesy restaurants, unusual shops, and landmarks and so naturally, it’s a great place to stay.

The Grand Bohemian Hotel, located in the heart of the city on Wentworth Street and part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, blends modern luxury and Southern charm, and its staff are friendly and helpful. Hands down, it is the top hotel choice when in Charleston. If you’re driving, valet parking is SEPTEMBER 2021

available at US$39 per night, which makes for a hassle-free arrival. It’s also less than a five-minute walk to all the top Charleston historic sites and if you are travelling with your pooch, it’s pet-friendly too.

When you step inside the Grand Bohemian, two things hit you – the art adorning its walls (the hotel boasts its own Art Atrium too) and the hotel’s signature fragrance. Art is also a highlight in each guestroom. Works include paintings of the

city, which can be purchased if they take your fancy. Other stand-out room features include the deluxe Kessler Collection amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi, and pillow-top beds. The hotel is home to the Élevé rooftop restaurant serving European cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as its famous Charleston-inspired brunch. The creatively plated dishes include a gypsy twist with fresh herbs. marriott.com

D E S T I N AT I O N S

Hands down, the food is amazing, and the staff ooze Southern warmth. You won’t leave disappointed. hometeambbq.com

THE BEST SOUTHERN FOOD Poogan’s Porch This restaurant has been recognised by The Travel Channel, Martha Stewart Living and Southern Living for its quintessential Southern menu. Set in a restored Victorian house and tucked away on Queen Street, it serves brunch and dinner daily and it’s a mustdine experience. After placing your order, you are served warm homemade biscuits. I suggest a bowl of she-crab soup to start. Originally a home, the last residents left their fluffy white dog Poogan behind, moving elsewhere.

Poogan always stayed near the house and when it was converted into a restaurant, management kept him and he became a regular fixture, welcoming guests. Passing on in 1979, his memory is still honoured. poogansporch.com Black Magic Café Located on James Island, this is the go-to breakfast spot in Charleston. The breakfast is good, the staff friendly and the ambience is whimsical, with brightly coloured walls and quirky mini signs dominating the décor. From omelettes, French toast and pancakes to the ‘Tree-Hugger’ granola and yogurt dish with fresh fruit, you can’t go wrong. Don’t leave without trying the honey lavender latte. blackmagiccafe.com RuRu’s Tacos + Tequila This is the place to go if you’re looking for something affordable and satisfying, but not too filling. Its Mexican-inspired menu offers generous snacks that won’t disappoint.

Try the ‘I’m Nacho Bae’ nachos served with queso, lettuce, pico, jalapeños and crema. You can add chicken, steak, or shrimp for $8.99.

The ‘Ma the Meat Loaf ’ for $9 is also tasty – it’s chunky guacamole and tortilla chips.

RuRu’s super-duper flour tacos are priced from just $3.99 and come with a range of Mexican-inspired fillings. RuRu’s does not

skimp on its portion sizes, with enough of every ingredient to fill your taco, quesadilla, or nachos. You can find it on East Bay Street. rurustacosandtequila.com Home Team BBQ There’s Southern American BBQ and then there’s Home Team BBQ, which is known for its “traditional processes and techniques of classical cuisine with the simplicity of comfort food, BBQ, and southern fare”. Its awardwinning menu has some of the best slowcooked chicken dishes and wings in town, with six BBQ sauce options from around America’s southeast to top them off. Not only is Home Team BBQ in Charleston, it’s in two other South Carolina cities: Columbia and Greenville, and, in Aspen, Colorado. With its vast menu, Home Team, located on Williman Street, is a casual venue that also stages live shows and even radio station broadcasts.

WHAT TO SEE

The weather in Charleston is mostly mild and the best times to visit are March to May and September to November, rather than summer (June to August) when it is hot and rainy.

Your first day in Charleston can be well spent taking a tour of city by private horse-drawn carriage. Private tours with Palmetto Carriage Works are priced from $200 while group tours start from $35 per person. palmettocarriage.com

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The Battery The Battery, located below Broad Street, is a landmark defensive seawall and promenade that’s sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and stately Charleston homes. It’s a photo hotspot.

ALLYSON PORTEE

WHAT TO EAT

CODfather If you’re looking for a proper chippy in Charleston, the drive to the CODfather is well worth it. And by chippy, I mean it includes British meat pies from chicken to steak, as well as sausage rolls. With full or half fish-andchip options and fish butties and chips, you can’t go wrong. Mushy peas aren’t amiss with proper curry and gravy sauces to season up your meal. The menu isn’t vast, but it’s authentic British pub food and it’s more than filling. Head to Spriull Avenue. facebook.com/TheCODfatherchippy

RIGHT: Historic houses at The Battery ABOVE: Try the she-crab soup (left) and shrimp main at Poogan’s Porch OPPOSITE PAGE: The Grand Bohemian Hotel (bottom left), its Art Atrium, and the design-led lobby SEPTEMBER 2021

D E S T I N AT I O N S ALLYSON PORTEE

LEFT: Charleston City Market

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BELOW: The pineapple is a symbol of hospitality in the American South

Fort Sumter Fort Sumter is where the US Civil War started in 1861. Located on an artificial island, it is accessible by boat.

Rainbow Row Filled with pastel-coloured Georgian historic homes on Charleston’s East Bay Street, diagonally down the street from The Battery, is Rainbow Row. Attracting US and international visitors daily, it’s a top location for Insta-worthy shots. Just as charming are the side streets leading from East Bay Street, behind Rainbow Row. There you will find breathtaking alleyways, cosy courtyards with fountains, and cute homes.

Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon This edifice has worn many hats, from commercial exchange, custom house and post office to city hall, military headquarters, and museum. It was also the site for live slave trading. It was during the American Revolution that the British made the bottom floor of the building a provost or ‘dungeon’, imprisoning American prisoners of war, British soldiers, and slaves. And in 1791, President George Washington was posted at the Exchange in a private dinner. oldexchange.org Pineapple Fountain Just as the date is a symbol of hospitality in the Middle East, the pineapple is a symbol SEPTEMBER 2021

of hospitality in the American South.

At Ravenel Waterfront Park sits a multilayered giant pineapple fountain that faces the Charleston shores. It’s the perfect spot for taking in views of the water and a fun backdrop for family holiday shots.

Historic Charleston City Market In the heart of the city on Meeting Street is the Charleston City Market. It’s a onestop-shop for genuine Charleston souvenirs, from T-shirts, postcards, art, and clothing to Southern Lowcountry food items.

Most vendors accept credit cards and mask wearing is mandatory. Check out the Chuma Gullah Gallery, with Charleston and Gullah images on show and for sale and don’t miss the Sweetgrass Baskets, which were originally made to winnow rice on local nearby plantations. Today, they are soughtafter souvenirs and can be quite pricey, but the time and effort that goes into making them is well worth the investment. thecharlestowncitymarket.com

OUT OF DOWNTOWN

Angel Oak Tree Measuring in at 66 feet tall (20 metres) with a circumference of 28 feet (8.5 metres), the Angel Oak Tree at Angel Oak Park on Johns Island is 500 years old, and a magnificent nature must see. It covers 17,200 square feet with its longest branch extending 187 feet long. The land was once privately owned, but now belongs to the City of Charleston.

It’s free to view. angeloaktree.com USS Yorktown CV-10 The USS Yorktown is a retired 24 Essex-class aircraft carrier, built during World War II for the US Navy. Named after a key battle in the American Revolutionary War, the Battle of Yorktown, the ship is open for daily tours, including the weekends. Parked and a part of the Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum, it makes for a half-day of fun as you’re able to enter the ship and see other naval vessels. patriotspoint.org

If you want to get out of downtown Charleston, other neighbourhoods that are just a short drive away will give you a more local vibe of the city. They include Sullivan’s Island, Mount Pleasant, the Isle of Palms, Daniel Island, James Island, Johns Island, Folly Island and if you’re a golfer, Kiawah Island, which is perfect for 18 holes. These districts all offer seafood restaurants, markets, tree-lined streets draped in Spanish moss and beautiful walkways.

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TOP TIPS FOR A QUICK TRIP TO DESIGNER OUTLET HOTSPOT, LA VALLÉE VILLAGE

A different way to shop Paris

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ounded in 1995, Bicester Village sprang out of a field in Oxfordshire, England, to become one of the world’s leading luxury shopping destinations. Today there are 11 village outlet shopping experiences across China and Europe, offering revered lifestyle brands at exceptional value for money. They include La Vallée Village, less than an hour from Paris’ city centre, just 10 minutes from Disneyland® Paris and promising boutiques headlined by some of the world’s leading designers.

Reminiscent of a quintessential French village, this shopping destination gives the iconic shopping streets of the French capital a run for their money. In fact, La Vallée is currently outperforming Avenue Montaigne in the 8th arrondissement (known for its high-end luxury stores) in terms of sales. With big-name brands at discount prices and both dining and art galleries thrown into the village mix, you can see why this out-of-town shopping hub appeals.

TIP 1 It’s best to arrive mid-morning to avoid the crowds that gather as the day progresses and to beat the queues. However, you can use the online digital queue service to book your slot. As you’d imagine, weekdays are quieter than weekends.

TIP 2 Purchase The Apartment VIP experience – a private space to unwind, enjoy refreshments and great hospitality. I started my journey here and was greeted with hot drinks and cookies. A concierge gave me a map of the village and offered me hands-free shopping option, where at check-out at any one of the 120-plus boutiques, my purchases would be taken back to The Apartment so I could pick them up at the end of the day.

TIP 3 Checking out the best deals works up an appetite, so I took a pit stop at Menu Palais restaurant in the centre of the village, which has an outdoor garden dining area. It serves typical French cuisine, but in a nod to the original Bicester Village in the UK, I opted for something British – fish and chips.

Tempting on-the-go dining options at the village include Crêperie Marguerite and for the best macarons, Ladurée.

TIP 4 No matter what mode of transport you choose, travelling to the village is easy.

Parking is free and RER and TGV rail services are convenient, with the station just steps away from the village. You can also book a luxury chauffeur service online from central Paris and both Paris Charles de Gaulle and Paris Orly airports.

TIP 5 A new Virtual Shopping services enables you to shop your favourite Village boutiques at a time and from a place that suits you.

You can shop directly with the boutique via WhatsApp, phone or email, so if you can’t travel to Paris quite yet, you can still make the most of it brands and prices.

La Vallée Village is open from 10am to 8pm, seven days a week.

Visit tbvsc.com/la-vallee-village or download the app.

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MEXICO’S WELLNESS ESCAPES With a focus on health and relaxation, these lavish coastal getaways afford serenity and space

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WORDS BARBARA BECKLEY

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njoying new ways to stay healthy is the focus for travel in this time of Coronavirus and beyond. In Mexico’s plentiful coastal resorts, that’s an easy thing to do. From Shaman rituals and water journeys to secluded beaches and private villas hidden along jungle lagoons, these luxury escapes are designed for wellness.

THE MEXICAN CARIBBEAN

Stretching from Cancun south along the Riviera Maya, sparkling turquoise seas, white sand beaches and luxe resorts nourish the body, mind and soul.

CANCUN

Le Blanc Spa Resort – Perhaps the healthiest suite anywhere. The Blanc Wellness Suite pampers with Stay Well by Delos air purifiers and shower infusers that remove 99 per cent of residual chlorine; a Wellness Concierge for guidance on SEPTEMBER 2021

Four Season Los Cabos

fitness and wellness-based activities, a wellness yoga and meditation kit, an exclusive healthy in-room dining menu, mini bar stocked with healthy choices and more. The wellness continues resort-wide at the BlancSpa, featuring a master suite with Hi-Tech hydro-tubs, Pilates Reformer classes, spinning, beachfront infinity pools and haute cuisine at restaurants including Pure Healthy Kitchen.

Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun – All Inclusive – A long-time favourite for its lavish Gem Spa and prime beach location at the tip of the Cancun peninsula (with a private marina and on-site excursions). Distance yourself in one of two premium penthouse levels, each providing private areas on the beach, the huge ocean-front deck and poolside.

Then experience the spa’s 40,000 square feet of wellness headlined by the signature chakrabalancing gemstone therapies and Latin America’s only 10-step guided hydrotherapy ritual, including a pebbled foot-massaging maze and enormous ‘Pool of Sensations’ overlooking Nichupte Lagoon.

Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa – Tranquility reigns across 365 acres and nearly two miles of beachy coastline, where canals connect you by boat to your room and public areas, and floating relaxation platforms welcome you with sofa chairs. Treat yourself to an Ambassador Suite with swim-up pool access. Hit some balls at the adjacent Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre – his only North American facility. Indulge in 50,000 square feet of health at Zentropia Spa & Wellness and its extensive thermal zone, from Sensation Showers to an eco-meditative cold bath. Learn to cook healthy Japanese cuisine during live cooking shows at the resort’s Sumptuori restaurant.

Chable Yucatan – Built around a sacred cenote (natural sinkhole) inland from Cancun, contemporary architecture is paired with a 19th century hacienda, and services combine

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Las Ventanan Villa

Mayan wisdom and advanced therapeutic methods to create a complete – and unforgettable – wellness experience. Relax in the private pool and open-space ‘cube of glass’ bath of your garden casita. At the Chable Spa, bliss out in a treatment suite overlooking the cenote with services from the Spiritual Menu and the Fitness Mind & Body Menu. Unique choices include the ‘Fountain of Youth Journey’ involving a Mayan welcome ritual at the cenote and flotation therapy in the Flotarium tank. Dine at the Wellness Restaurant on dishes made with ingredients from the resort’s Mayan Garden.

THE RIVIERA MAYA

Chable Maroma – White beaches and emerald jungle frame this acclaimed wellness resort, renowned for its luxurious focus on Mayan healing. Unique wellness services, expert health consultants, open-air treatment rooms and airy thatched villas with private pools immerse you in a world of well-being. Uplifting experiences include the ‘Ya’Axche Forest Awakening Ritual’ massage, the ‘Sound of the Sea’ water ceremony including a seaweed wrap and sea fennel massage wax, and the Temazcal steam bath ceremony. Four restaurants continue the wellness, especially Kaban, where the ocean is the inspiration for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya – Famous for being the largest (nearly 90,000 square feet) and one of the best spas in the region, wellness opportunities are nearly limitless at the holistic Se Spa by Grand Velas. Inspired by world cultures with an emphasis on indigenous traditions, its signature services include the Mayan Jade Facial, the Umbal Shawl massage to align body posture and cleanse energy channels, and the eight-step Water Ceremony through waterfalls, bubble beds and other aqua delights.

TRS Yucatan Hotel – Situated 18 miles south of Tulum in the Grand Palladium resort

complex, your adults-only experience centres around the Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness. For an extra dose of wellbeing, check into the Wellness Junior Suite. It’s designed for couples who desire a healthy life in body, mind and soul, with specialised amenities including a personalised fitness programme, custom-designed meal menu and couples’ massage. At the spa, enjoy services outdoors on the beach or in the jungle in an Eco-palm Shelter. Indulge in the Water Garden, an avant garde collection of pleasures including a vapour baths pool, eco-meditative cold bath and open-air showers with water cascades.

Rosewood Mayakoba – Shady lagoons leading to private villas (each with a boat dock) and to Sense, A Rosewood Spa, secluded on an island in the jungle, make this 620-acre ocean-front hideaway a healthseekers dream. For optimum wellbeing, stay on the spa island in a Wellness Suite overlooking the lagoon and let the Well SEPTEMBER 2021

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One&Only Palmilla

Being Butler guide you on a personalised path of wellness. You’ll also have use of the island’s outdoor serenity pavilion for yoga, personal training, massage and individual sessions with the resort Shaman (native healer). In the spa, experience locally inspired treatments such as the ‘Mayan Healing Hands: Customised Journey’ featuring a private session with a Mayan Shaman, a Shaman-led re-birth ceremony at a cenote and a Temazcal experience.

Kore Tulum Retreat and Spa Resort – Cozy and stylish with only 94 suites, all with Jacuzzis, this adults-only oceanfront find is ideal for a casual healthy getaway.

Promote your physical and mental health with the Temazcal ritual, indoor and on-thebeach treatments at the Spa Centre, a gym workout, yoga on the beach and more. Get your exercise on free bicycles pedalling around town or to the Tulum Archeological Zone (less than two miles away). There’s also a pharmacy, medical service and a natural cenote on the grounds.

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LOS CABOS

At the tip of the Baja Peninsula, desert and ocean meet in a synergy of sun, sand and sea to relax, restore and elevate the spirit.

One&Only Palmilla – With 13 spa pavilions, each with a sumptuously landscaped fountain garden courtyard with a daybed and soaking tub, plus inside treatment room and shower; the One&Only Spa at this legendary resort comes as close to the Garden of Eden as a spa can. Let the in-house Shaman awaken your spirit with the ‘Ancient Healing Treatment Consultation with Shaman’ service. Featuring a sage smoke ritual cleansing and massage with indigenous medicines and magnets. Or the ‘Ancient Mexican Remedies’ ceremony, including a Shaman-led copal and herb smoke bath, body wrap with freshly harvested aloe vera, massage with healing quartz and a drink of local cactus root tea.

Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort – Relax and renew away from it all at this boutique property within the gated Quivira Los Cabos community on the Pacific Ocean.

Breathe in the fresh sea air while sipping Champagne on a canopied daybed on the miles-long private beach. For extra seclusion, book The Towers resort-within-a-resort and enjoy your own plunge pool, exclusive oceanfront lounge, beachfront restaurant and ocean-view fitness centre.

Wellness continues at the Armonia Spa with a diverse menu including the Royal Mexican Lime Deep Body Scrub. Enjoy exhilarating play (only members and resort guests) on the private Jack Nicklaus-designed Quivira Golf Club course, carved out of the ocean cliffs.

Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort – Always a leader in luxurious wellness, new health-conscious options take you to even higher levels of wellbeing at this famous resort. For instance, the new ‘Celebrate & Rejuvenate’ all-encompassing stay includes three new holistic wellness journeys: ‘Vitalise’, ‘Healthy Aging’ and ‘Deep Sleep’. Also, the Speakeasy Lounge is now outdoors floating on a pool. Taste history with the ‘Barbacoa

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Viceroy Los Cabos

Dinner’, featuring cuisine of the ancient Tlaxcalan people. Spa at Las Ventanas treatments inspired by the indigenous healers of Baja include the ‘Spiritual Chalam’ journey, a holistic experience originated by Baja Shamans using meditation with crystals and a stone massage to purify the spirit and soul.

Viceroy Los Cabos – A sanctuary of mirror pools, casitas with ‘Lifestyle Assistants’, an open-air rooftop restaurant with sweeping ocean views and an adults-only rooftop pool, the ambiance is as beneficial as the holistic Spa at Viceroy Los Cabos. Inside the spa, locallyinspired treatments include the ‘Tranquil Damiana’ massage which fuses traditional and ASMR sleep techniques with scents of the local Damiana flower. Be sure to enjoy a healthy – and unique – Robatayaki-style seafood dinner inside the signature birds-nest-like structure, seemingly floating on water.

Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas – Only 45 minutes from the airport and miles from other resorts, this new-build (opened October 2019) is the very definition of a healthy get-away-from-it-all. Low-level architecture (no corridors or shared elevators), rooms with private plunge pools, breezy restaurants (using locally-sourced ingredients) and two miles of pristine swimmable beach redefine social distancing. Take guided meditation sessions at The Oasis Spa and the ‘Meet the Farmers’ tour to the resort’s organic farms and orchards to learn the latest healthy growing techniques.

THE PACIFIC COAST RIVIERA NAYARIT

Here, golden beaches, emerald jungles and red sunsets combine to soothe the soul.

Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita – ‘Celebrating the Mexican culture one sunset at a time’. It’s the motto – and an idyllic path to wellbeing – at this iconic, newly renovated,

hideaway. Begin the day with fresh air and panoramic views of ocean, beach and nearby islands from your terrace. Watch the nightly Huichol Sunset Ritual, performed

by Huichol Shamans. In The Spa, learn how to train your brain for increased clarity, perception and focus with a “Mindfullness” session. Or take the ‘Apuane Mud Ritual’ on one of two private beaches. There’s also a Surf Coach and golf on the Jack Nicklaus Bahia course, home to the Tail of the Whale, the world’s only golf green on a natural island.

Grand Palladium Vallarta Resort & Spa – Inspired ocean views, a private beach and personalised services in the Zentropia Palladium Spa and Wellness equal healthy vacationing on beautiful Banderas Bay. Stay in shape playing water polo in the unique Aqua Gym. In the spa, choose among treatments using seeds and essences based on local ingredients. Enjoy a hydro massage or clay treatment or a vapor bath. End the day in tranquility, watching the sunset from the spa pool’s exclusive Water Cascade.

SEPTEMBER 2021

TECHNOLOGY

WORDS DAVID PHEL AN

The latest laptops combine power and portability, with all of the features you need for work and play, both at home or on the move

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KUCHERAV/GETTY IMAGES

LEAN MACHINES

hoosing a laptop usually comes down to three priorities – weight, power and price.

For business travellers that has often meant accepting a smaller display and a slower processor because portability is the most important factor. However, our period of working from home has changed the dynamic, with our laptop becoming our go-to gadget for domestic work and play. So if it’s a machine you’re going to be using more at home, then a bigger screen may be more important than portability.

Greater power has certainly become paramount, although the importance of a laptop you can carry easily will still be front of mind. Is it possible to find the ideal notebook computer, one that has a display big enough for easy home use and sufficient speed to keep everything motoring along, but is not too heavy to carry? While battery life is less important if the computer can be plugged in all day, that won’t always be the case, so it’s still an important factor.

Here are the best laptops around, with choices for everyone, no matter which priority is most important to you. There are three operating system choices: Microsoft Windows is on all of the laptops here except the Macbook Pro and Google Pixelbook, which have their own operating systems and range of programmes.

All except the Macbook Pro have touchscreen displays.

APPLE MACBOOK PRO 13-INCH From US$1,800 apple.com/uk

The big news from Apple last year was the introduction of a new processor in its Macbook Pro and Macbook Air computers.

Instead of using the Intel chips found in most laptops, Apple is now using its own silicon, with a chip called the M1 powering the Air and some 13-inch Macbook Pro models. If all of that sounds a bit boring, wait until you try it. The M1 means that the Pro is blazing-fast, offering a huge performance improvement, and it’s not at the cost of battery life. The new 13-inch Pro lasts for seven hours longer than the previous one did for wireless web browsing – up to 17 hours. Apple’s latest laptops also use what it calls a Magic Keyboard, which is dreamily comfortable to use.

Although this model absolutely ticks the box for power, it is also lightweight (1.4kg) and thin (15.6mm). The power button includes a fingerprint sensor for extra security.

HUAWEI MATEBOOK X PRO US$2,200 consumer.huawei.com

Huawei’s slick Windows laptop is slim (14.6mm), light (1.33kg) and well-equipped.

A fast processor keeps everything ticking and there are plenty of special features.

For instance, if you have a Huawei phone you can tap it on the laptop’s touchpad and it will appear on the screen so you can transfer files between the two easily. The 13.9-inch display has such narrow bezels that there’s no room for a webcam. Instead, this is hidden under a key, which means that when you’re done Zooming, you can be certain that nobody can see you – you simply press the key closed. The latest version, on sale from May, includes Wifi 6, which is capable of very high speeds, while ten hours of battery life means you needn’t unpack the charger for even a decent-length international flight. Like the Apple laptop, there’s a fingerprint sensor in the power button. Choose from Space Grey or Emerald Green finishes.

DELL XPS 15 US$2,780 dell.com

This Dell laptop is a real powerhouse. Its 15.6-inch display is big enough to act as a desktop replacement but portable enough for your travels. It can handle even the most complex programmes and is quick and responsive. Dell builds the computer you choose, so there’s no end to the configurations – an extra £300 adds a 4K screen instead of HD, for instance. The edge-to-edge display and space-saving SSD storage means it’s smaller than it might have been (18mm thin; from 1.83kg). Although this is a highly capable business machine, the XPS 15 is also fast enough for video games – if this is going to be your do-everything laptop, that could be useful. The design looks nifty and the keyboard is a joy to use. Battery life is more than 10 hours.

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TECHNOLOGY

MICROSOFT SURFACE BOOK 3 From US$2,226 microsoft.com

Microsoft’s Windows and Office software is ubiquitous, but in the past few years the company has also made a select range of hardware. The Surface Book 3 is arguably its best yet: a handsome, efficient and deeply classy laptop with a clever hinge mechanism and a screen that lifts off to become a separate, 13.5-inch-screen tablet – there are batteries in both the display and keyboard sections. The Surface Book 3 is made of magnesium, which means it’s sturdy and lightweight (1.5kg and 15mm thin), but it has enough power to run advanced programmes easily. The keyboard is more comfortable than most with a sense of spaciousness and comfortable keys (although the Macbook Pro is still hard to beat). If the 13.5-inch display isn’t to your liking, there’s also a 15-inch version. Battery life is claimed to be up to 17.5 hours.

HP ELITE DRAGONFLY From US$2,420 hp.com

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LENOVO YOGA 5G US$156 per month for 24 months ee.co.uk

This is the world’s first 5G laptop – that is, it has a SIM card slot with 5G capability.

This means you can connect to the internet from anywhere with a mobile signal and you hardly need to connect to wifi. Since some public wifi networks are slow and insecure, that’s a real bonus. The battery life is outstanding – Lenovo reckons it’s 24 hours – and it’s light (from 1.3kg) and slim (from 14.75mm). Of course, its Yoga name has a meaning: it’s another convertible machine so you can fold the keyboard behind it like a tablet, for instance. The 5G element means it’s priced like a mobile phone – EE’s 24-month contract includes 80GB of data per month.

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The HP Elite Dragonfly is a stylish business laptop that is thin (16.1mm) and light (0.99kg) – ideal for when travelling is commonplace again. In its priciest configuration, it has an option for a 4G SIM card slot. It also has options for a webcam with a sliding cover and display technology that makes the screen unreadable to anyone peeking over your shoulder.

These make it secure, as does the fingerprint sensor.

Like the Lenovo Yoga, this laptop is a convertible: you can fold the screen back so it’s like a tablet or stand it up like a trestle table to watch a video.

Battery life is up to 12 hours.

ACER SWIFT 5 US$1,532 store.acer.com

The 14-inch touchscreen display on the Swift 5 has tiny bezels, making for a pleasing all-screen effect. It feels so light in the hand that you may wonder if something has been left out (it’s about 1kg). It’s slim, too (14.95mm), which is appealing, even if you’re only carrying it from the living room to the home office. For all that, it still packs a punch thanks to a leading-edge Intel processor. There’s also a special antimicrobial agent on the surface of the keyboard, plus a fingerprint reader. Battery life is reasonable at more than nine hours.

ACCESSORIES APPLE MAGIC MOUSE From US$110 apple.com/uk A mouse is a useful way to make a laptop feel more like a desktop, and some people simply prefer one to a trackpad.

Apple’s mouse is still one of the slickest around. There are no buttons – well, there are but it looks like it’s all one piece. You recharge it with the same Lightning cable used for the iPhone (note that you can’t charge it while working as the port is located underneath the mouse). Choose from silver or Space Grey.

BELKIN USB-C TO USB-A ADAPTER US$21 belkin.com Some of the latest laptops, especially ones from Apple, have ditched regular connectors like USB-A in favour of the smaller USB-C. That’s all very well until you need the older-style USB-A socket (such as to charge a phone from your laptop, say). This tiny, affordable gadget is ideal and connects any USB-A cable to your laptop. The cable is short but long enough to ensure a narrow profile, so it doesn’t block the next socket.

GOOGLE PIXELBOOK GO From US$877 store.google.com

When Google launched its own operating system, at first it really only worked well if the laptop was online. Things have changed over the years and laptops using Chrome OS, such as this one, have much more autonomy. The Pixelbook Go is thin (12.7mm), light (1.06kg) and effective with a 13.3-inch screen. It also has a remarkably silent keyboard – handy if you’re working from home and the family are complaining about the clackety-clack as you tap.

It’s great for videoconferencing thanks to a front-facing camera that is higher resolution than most. Performance is decent and it comes at a competitive price. Battery life is good at up to 12 hours.

MOSHI SYMBUS Q COMPACT USB-C DOCK US$230 moshi.com If your laptop only has one or two USB-C sockets but your needs are more demanding, this clever dock offers lots more versatility. It plugs into the mains so you can charge the laptop, and there are two USB-A sockets, an HDMI port to connect a display and ethernet.

Oh, and the top surface is a wireless charging pad so you can simply plonk a compatible phone on top to charge it.

KNOMO KNOMAD THAMES ORGANISER US$96 knomo.com Even if you’re not taking the laptop far just now, it’s good to have a useful and attractive case for it. Knomad, from the brilliant British bag and luggage maker Knomo, has an organiser with mesh sections, bands, slots, holders and pockets so that everything has its place. There’s even a pocket with RFID protection to prevent your cards being accidentally scanned near a card reader. The special ID in each Knomo product helps the company to reunite you with your item if it gets lost. Available in black or grey.

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CARS

WORDS NAT BARNE S The Audi e-tron GT ushers a new era for sports cars with a green conscience

T

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here’s a revolution under way. An electric revolution. Not so long ago, the idea of a sports car would have been a big V8-engined, twodoor muscle car that was loud and proud. The kind of thing that made half of the population drool with envy and the other half roll their eyes in utter bemusement.

Now though, the rules have changed. And that fact is underlined by this, the new Audi e-tron GT. A four-door saloon that’s not just the most powerful road car that the German firm has ever produced but is also fully electric with zero emissions. Yep, you read that right. Drop-dead gorgeous looks, scorching performance (more on that later) and very clean.

In fact, this is just the start for Audi. Some 30 electrified models are promised for showrooms by 2025 and 20 of those will be purely electric. The Q4 e-tron and Q4 e-tron Sportback SUVs are both due in 2022 with an A6 e-tron arriving in 2023 with a 435-mile range. Make no mistake, Audi is going full-on for plug-in power with this e-tron GT as its flagship.

If some of the e-tron GT’s dimensions and overall shape look familiar, then you’re not mistaken. Underneath the skin, the Audi e-tron GT is essentially the same car as the Porsche Taycan, but we think Audi’s offering is every bit as good to look at, if not better.

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ABOVE: The Audi e-tron: a sports car of the future LEFT: It’s a fully electric, zero emission car

CARS

AT A GLANCE Model: Audi e-tron GT On sale: now Price: from US$110,700 Engine: Electric – 93kW Range: 298 miles CO2 emissions: 0g/km

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Sitting low and wide, there are two charging ports, one on each front wing, the low, sloping roofline and the full-width light bar at the rear – with Audi’s usual scrolling indicators of course. We think it’s stunning, especially so in the optional khaki Tactical Green.

In standard GT form, the e-tron has 476PS although this rises to 530PS when in boost mode while for the topof-the-range RS those figures are an eye-watering 598 and 646PS, with all models boasting a 93kWh battery.

While the GT version is expected to account for 80 per cent of sales, it has a 298-mile range in Vorsprung trim with all RS models having a slightly reduced range of 283 miles.

Audi claims an average economy of 2.88-3.12 mls/kWh (the new version of fuel economy for electric cars) while performance is startling with the RS model boasting a 0 to 62mph time of just 3.3 seconds in boost mode and a 155mph top speed. That is supercar-humbling pace.

We’re big fans of the Porsche Taycan and how it drives, so even before setting off we had a good idea of how this e-tron GT might feel on the road. That said, for all of Audi’s experience at producing fast saloons with its ICE RS models, while rapid they haven’t always been fully engaging on an emotional level.

It doesn’t take long for you to realise that that’s not the case with this e-tron GT. Settling down behind the flatbottomed steering wheel, there’s a low-set driving position, but still a good view out with the edges of the front wings slightly prominent helping you to place the car on the road.

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We’d be lying if we said that you don’t feel that 2276kg kerb weight on the move, but at the same time it feels low down and you never feel hindered by it. Instead, there’s just a wall of grunt under your right foot that provides non-stop acceleration as you gain confidence behind the wheel.

And believe us when we say that you will want to drive the e-tron GT hard. It’s very addictive. Yes, there’s lots of grip – especially with the huge 21-inch wheels fitted to our test car – and there’s immediate acceleration always on tap, but it’s the way that the e-tron GT delivers all of that that’s so enticing.

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With that low weight, the e-tron GT feels like it’s encouraging you through bends, building your confidence and enabling you to really lean on the tyres taking full advantage of the available grip through the corners.

There are very few EVs that can boast this level of driver involvement and, perhaps unsurprisingly, only the Porsche Taycan has a similar level of feel.

It’s not perfect though. The regenerative braking fitted to all electric cars that helps to recharge the battery when you lift off the throttle pedal, isn’t that strong in the e-tron, even on its highest level. When more and more EV drivers are getting accustomed to one-pedal driving with strong regenerative braking in electric cars, it feels a little odd that Audi didn’t opt either for more aggressive levels of braking Then there’s the perennial issue of range. Audi claims 298 miles, but in low temperatures our fully charged range dropped to 210 miles. Some spirited driving and excellent roads, including part of Scotland’s superb North Coast 500, saw us average 2.7mls/kWh over 170 miles, so not far off the official average power consumption figure.

Audi claims a five to 80 per cent charge in just 23 minutes at a 270kW charger, but they’re about as easy to find as an honest politician. Closer to everyday reality is the 13.5 hours that a full charge takes on a domestic car charging point.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: There’s a lowset driving position, but still a good view; the 405-litre boot is shallow, but usefully long; some of the e-tron GT’s dimensions and overall shape look familiar

Even with that performance, practicality is pretty reasonable with space for four adults (five at a squeeze) with good head and legroom, although foot space is a little compromised if the front seats are in their lowest positions. There’s also a 405-litre boot, which is shallow but usefully long, and an extra small boot under the front bonnet. Despite the looks though, the e-tron GT has a saloon boot and not a rear hatchback.

Unless you’re enjoying a lottery win, nobody would ever describe the US$110,700 list price for the e-tron GT as cheap, but it does undercut the Porsche Taycan 4S, so it’s little surprise that a substantial 80 per cent of e-tron GT sales are expected to be the entry-level car.

The RS versions are obviously faster with the extra power, but pay the price financially starting at $134,000 and rising to the flagship RS GT Carbon Vorsprung at $184,800.

This e-tron GT is easily one of the best EVs for keen drivers that we’ve been behind the wheel of – a crucial factor when you consider the current lack of competition in the sports car market. Considering the lack of driver involvement for Audi’s standard e-tron, if this GT is anything to go by, then the EV future with Audi looks very bright indeed.

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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

∙ flydubai Business Class B737-800 Dubai to Tbilisi

∙ Marriott Tbilisi, Georgia

∙ The Langham, London

∙ Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

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62 ∙ Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi

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64 ∙ Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park, London

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TRIED & TESTED FLIGHT

flydubai Business Class B737-800 DUBAI TO TBILISI

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B A C K G R O U N D It has been 10 years since flydubai launched services to Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, and it’s become one of the airline’s most popular routes. The three-times-weekly service has opened up a destination that is something of a well-kept secret for many travellers and even within Europe, remains fairly inaccessible due to limited flight options.

The former Soviet state, now dubbed ‘the Rome of the East’, is quintessentially ‘East meets West’, and is undergoing a beautiful revival. Old industrial buildings are being repurposed into trendy hotels, restaurants and boutiques, while the city is immersed in centuries-old history and culture.

C H E C K - I N Poor planning on my part meant I travelled on the first day of the summer holidays in the UAE. As a result, T2 at Dubai International was extremely busy and massively understaffed to cope with the number of passengers, several of whom were trying to push into the business class queue and generally causing chaos around the check-in area.

Once at the desk, check-in was smooth, despite the additional pandemic-related paperwork, which inevitably slows things down a little. Patience is key during these times. The business class queue was a mere fraction of the length of the long and snaking line for economy passengers where social distancing became a long-forgotten concept, so I was very thankful. Lounge access and fast-track boarding ensured the airport experience thereafter was a good one. The lounge still offers an extensive à la carte menu and serves great coffee.

T H E S E A T I was in seat 2F, a window

seat that was spacious and comfortable.

On such a short flight, it provided ample

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TRIED & TESTED FLIGHT

board passengers. For a three-hour flight, the entertainment options were more than ample and in business there was a paid option for Wi-Fi, starting at US$8 for half an hour and up to $27 for a 24-hour pass. The business-class section was only one-third full, and the service was very attentive. The international three-course menu featured a choice of three mains: Chicken Florentine, Tomato and Garlic Prawns and Nut Roast, with one starter and dessert option too.

Champagne was also served – a small luxury that I personally love when flying. It also shows the business-class service has not been compromised, despite the impact of the pandemic.

The business class section was only one-third full, and the service was very attentive BEST FOR Luxury at affordable prices

A R R I V A L Getting out of the airport was

C ONFIGURATION 2-2

SE AT WIDTH 21 inches

SE AT PITCH 42 inches

FLIGHT TIME 3/3.5 hours

PRICE From AED3,100 one way

CONTACT flydubai.com

space for a nap or to set-up the laptop for work. Given I am a self-confessed germphobic (even before the pandemic), staff reassured me the seats and cabin had been thoroughly sanitised between flights.

The seat configuration is a 2-2 format and with just 12 business seats on this aircraft, it is difficult to say which is a good or bad seat. However, a front-row seat does ensure nobody leans their chair back into your space.

T H E F L I G H T We took off 30 minutes after the scheduled departure time, which I can imagine was due to the holiday rush as we were held up waiting for late-to-

fast and smooth, even with extra pandemic paperwork, and staff at Tbilisi were refreshingly friendly.

V E R D I C T There are many perks to travelling with flydubai, one of which is that passengers can benefit from the partnership with Emirates, which includes accruing Skywards loyalty points. The carrier has also opened up access to many underserved or untapped markets and destinations, including Tbilisi, which is a strong selling point. Economy passengers can also make an upgrade bid when this savvy airline sells off the empty business seats. Bid prices start from just $200 one way, so it’s well worth exploring this option.

Melanie Swan SEPTEMBER 2021

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TRIED & TESTED HOTEL

Marriott Tbilisi, Georgia

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B A C K G R O U N D Not to be confused with the Courtyard by Marriott, this is one of the few truly historic hotels in the city.

Built in 1915 as one of Tbilisi’s first highclass hotels, it has has since witnessed a dramatic history, including the Soviet takeover of Georgia. After suffering heavy fire damage during the 1991 to 1992 coup d’état, the hotel was reconstructed and reopened as the Tbilisi Marriott in 2002.

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? With its domed lobby and chandelier-clad high ceilings, the hotel oozes refinement and grandeur.

Elegant three-piece-suit-clad porters greet you when you arrive at the property, which takes pride of place on a tree-lined boulevard. Unlike many of the more austere buildings of its time, the hotel’s lavish façades retain their original Renaissance and Baroque inspired design, with grand pillars denoting an almost palatial style in a city that is finding the balance between old and new. Staff members are welcoming and friendly and cannot do enough to help, including organising the necessary PCR testing. Everything is efficient and easy.

W H E R E I S I T ? On Rustaveli Avenue, close to several of the city’s conference centres, universities, the parliament and attractions such as Liberty Square. The old city is a 10-15-minute walk, and the airport is 25 minutes away by road.

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R O O M S The hotel has 116 rooms and 11 suites. I stayed in the Junior Suite with balconet doors that opened out onto the picturesque street. Spacious and modern, yet understated in its luxury, there was plenty of room spread out in the 54 sqm room with a lounge area, small desk and a large wardrobe. There was not much in the way of technology, but all the essentials were there including a coffee machine and a handy bedside USB charging point. The hotel was well soundproofed, so I slept like a baby, despite the property being located on one of the city’s main roads.

spectacular open space to enjoy al fresco dining from either Parnas Cafe, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, or Majestic Lounge & Bar for breakfast and lunch. Breakfast at Parnas Cafe is waiter-served buffet dining and offers a huge choice of hot and cold Western-style dishes, accompanied by complimentary bubbles if you so wish. There are plenty of halal food options available too.

F O O D A N D D R I N K I was provided with Club Lounge access – an intimate venue offering comfort and convenience, as well as complimentary snacks and beverages, including local wine and beer. During the warmer months the hotel’s courtyard is a

B U S I N E S S One of the city’s leading business venues, the hotel has nine event rooms with a maximum capacity of more than 200 guests, plus cutting-edge conference technology. Photocopying and printing services are also available.

BEST FOR Service

DON’T MISS Rustaveli Avenue room views

PRICE Deluxe Rooms from $150-160 per night

CONTACT 13 Shota Rustaveli Ave, marriott.com

One of the city’s leading business venues, the hotel has nine event rooms

L E I S U R E The hotel has a reasonable

though tired gym – a visit to which is a necessity given Tbilisi has become a regional gastronomic hotspot. A massage service is also available at the health club.

V E R D I C T There are so many great hotels popping up in Tbilisi now, but this is one of the only historic properties and worth a visit, even if only to appreciate its impressive design. For a taste of old luxury, this is the spot. Melanie Swan

TRIED & TESTED HOTEL

BEST FOR Its vast facilities and quality dining

DON’T MISS Sunset at the beach.

PRICE From AED 800 per night ++ for a Deluxe Room

CONTACT +971 (0)2 811 4444; jumeirah.com

and working space, plus two balconies.

The bathroom was enormous with separate bath and shower rooms and a double sink.

I loved the walk-in wardrobe where I could hide all my clothes and my suitcase!

Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi B A C K G R O U N D Pre-pandemic, this hotel

had pretty much cornered the business and leisure markets due to its vast facilities, not only catering to holidaymakers and weekend breakers, but corporates running everything from team-building events and client iftars to meetings and more. With Abu Dhabi now opening up to both UAE and international visitors again, the hotel is well positioned to meet growing demand.

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? The hotel has all

the grandeur one expects of Jumeirah, but with a distinct Abu Dhabi edge. The finishings are plush – there is a lot of gold and marble – and there is a strong Arabian theme, in keeping with the cultural heritage of the UAE capital. Low rise, but sprawling,

the blue glass exterior sits like a wave on beautiful Saadiyat Island.

W H E R E I S I T ? A short drive from Abu Dhabi city and the international airport and on the same island as the now famous Louvre Abu Dhabi. It’s also adjacent to Yas Island, home to multiple theme parks and the Yas Marina Circuit.

R O O M S I stayed in a one-bedroom Ocean Suite, which was a whopping 88 sqm. The technology was not quite what I hoped – I love a room where I can play music through a Bluetooth speaker and I’m a sucker for in-room gadgets – but it did feature essentials such as coffee and tea, a fridge, and an expansive lounge, dining

F O O D A N D D R I N K Breakfast at ‘White’ felt like a decadent pre-pandemic experience, with a vast buffet on offer. Dining options are varied and the quality, fantastic. I ate lunch at the Pool Bar where even the salad felt like premium restaurant quality and the menu was very extensive. Italian venue Mare Mare (pictured) is a laid back, chic Mediterranean diner, which is easy to stroll into for a casual swimwear-clad lunch, or a more fine-dining affair for dinner. The expansive menu is authentic Italian, the ingredients fresh, and the quality superb.

The hotel has all the grandeur one expects of Jumeirah, but with a distinct Abu Dhabi edge B U S I N E S S The hotel’s ballroom can accommodate up to 400 guests and the break-out meeting rooms can host up to 100, so when social distancing rules are relaxed and events start to happen in person, these well-equipped event spaces will deliver for a range of occasions. Wi-Fi is reliable so makes remote working easy.

L E I S U R E Kitted out with a fantastic gym

under Bodyism, and a very grand spa, there are plenty of wellness options. Watersports are available too, so there’s never a dull moment.

V E R D I C T An island retreat boasting one of the most spectacular beach views in the UAE and ideal for corporate get-togethers.

Melanie Swan SEPTEMBER 2021

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TRIED & TESTED HOTEL

The Langham, London B A C K G R O U N D The Langham, London, was hailed Europe’s first “Grand Hotel” when it opened in June 1865 and its reputation for luxury, personalised service and hospitality excellence remains evident today. Part of Hong Kong headquartered Langham Hospitality Group, the property continues to evolve, with the recent addition of deluxe suites, British tavernstyle dining venue, The Wigmore, and a new spa, Chuan Body + Soul.

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? It’s grand, but welcoming, with friendly, personable staff and a relaxed atmosphere. The décor is elegant and refined with a sense of place and careful consideration to preserving the history of a building that was once a city mansion.

W H E R E I S I T ? On Portland Place, Regent 64

Street, in London’s West End, arguably one of the most coveted addresses in the city.

It’s a five-minute walk to the capital’s prime shopping district – Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street – as well as cultural attractions such as The British Museum.

It’s grand, but welcoming, with friendly, personable staff and a relaxed atmosphere R O O M S The Langham, London, features 380 rooms across several categories, from Superior Rooms to a selection of large residential-style suites. I stayed in an Executive Room, which unfortunately was not one of the recently refurbished accommodations, however, the room was very spacious, if a little dated, offering a king-sized bed, a table with two chairs, a large work desk and a closet with lots of extras, such as slippers, robes, an umbrella, ironing board and iron, etc. The bathroom was a good size with bath, powerful shower and amenities including guest sanitisation kits in Langham’s signature pink packaging. I personally loved the floral pink Langham pens too.

The décor was subtle in neutral tones, but in need of a refurbishment.

BEST FOR Location, service, after-work drinks/dining

DON’T MISS The famous Palm Court afternoon tea

PRICE From £320 ($443) per night in September

CONTACT 1C Portland Pl, London; langhamhotels.com

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F O O D A N D D R I N K I dined at The Wigmore, a modern British Tavern housed in a former banking hall and serving classic pub snacks and meals with the twist.

The menu, overseen by Michel Roux Jr, included a delicious Masala spiced scotch egg with dahl relish, plus tasty bites such as smoked chicken croquetas with aioli and fat chips with Bloody Mary salt. If you fancy something heartier, the options include minced lamb pie, a cheeseburger, lobster roll with buttermilk onion rings and if you’re vegan, a plant-based burger.

If you like to dine al fresco, the tree-lined outdoor terrace is a great spot with a buzzy atmosphere. It’s ideal for a casual afterwork meet up with colleagues or clients.

Another dining option is Palm Court, where I ate breakfast and the service and quality of food were of a very high standard. This venue is famed as the place where the tradition of afternoon tea was born more than 150 years ago.

B U S I N E S S The Langham offers multiple meeting and event venues, including a Grand Ballroom with a 375-person capacity and its own garden courtyard.

L E I S U R E Include the new Chuan Body

+ Soul Spa, a 16-metre indoor pool and a fitness centre open 24 hours a day.

V E R D I C T A destination hotel in central London is tough to find, but The Langham has nailed it, with business and leisure facilities under one roof in a convenient location, enhanced by friendly and professional service. Gemma Greenwood

TRIED & TESTED HOTEL

Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park, London B A C K G R O U N D This grand property first opened as a gentlemen’s club in 1889 and then as a hotel in 1902. Under the ownership of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group since 1996, it has undergone two major renovations. During the second, in June 2018, a fire interrupted the planned reopening, but the “reinvented and reimagined” property was finally unveiled on April 15, 2019, featuring all-new guestrooms and suites and refurbished facilities and public spaces. In my opinion, it was well worth the wait.

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? “The Mandarin

Oriental hotels are pretty incredible.

They are the lap of luxury and it is very hard to leave,” says actor Stanley Tucci, adding that his favourite MO is “the one in Knightsbridge”. I could not agree more.

I’ve always been an MO fan and stayed at the London property pre-refurbishment. I was impressed then, but the reinvention has elevated the hotel experience to great heights. From the outstanding interior design and immaculate service to the destination restaurants and luxury leisure facilities, it’s a cut above the rest. The recent multi-million-pound restoration saw designer Joyce Wang oversee the design of all rooms, suites and public areas, inspired by the natural beauty of Hyde Park and the glamour of the 20th century Golden Age of travel. The result is breathtaking.

W H E R E I S I T ? Nestled between Hyde Park and Knightsbridge.

R O O M S We stayed in a Hyde Park Suite overlooking the royal park. This privileged view was the backdrop to a residential-style suite with outstanding art-deco inspired features including custom-designed furniture and artworks. I particularly appreciated the library of books curated by historic London bookseller, Heywood Hill, the yoga mat, GHD hair straighteners and Diptyque bathroom amenities. The bedroom, in dark moss green and golds, featured a king bed, dressing table and huge wardrobes, while the lounge offered a sofa, coffee table, desk and a very generous bar with Nespresso machine. Complimentary fruit, drinks and a creative chocolate welcome gift were the icing on the cake of this impeccable hospitality experience.

The reinvention has elevated the hotel experience to great heights F O O D A N D D R I N K MO Hyde Park is

a culinary destination, with two Michelin star restaurant Dinner by Heston the cornerstone venue (see p65). The restaurant also serves an extensive la carte breakfast. I opted for seasonal fruit, Greek yogurt and poached eggs on sourdough with avocado. I asked if watermelon juice was available and they arranged to have one squeezed! There’s also the Mandarin Bar – perfect for pre-dinner drinks coupled with irresistible bar snacks – and The Rosebery, a bright and airy venue where the quintessential afternoon tea is served.

B U S I N E S S Stunning venues with a real sense of place include The Ballroom where Queen Elizabeth II learned to dance, The Loggia with its distinct circular design and the al fresco Mandarin Terrace.

L E I S U R E Include the revamped The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, London, a sizeable gym with plenty of equipment for all types of workouts, and a basement lap pool.

V E R D I C T A flawless and memorable stay. A great place to wow your clients with afternoon tea at The Rosebery, a drink at the Mandarin Bar, or a special meal at Dinner by Heston. Gemma Greenwood BEST FOR Location, service, exquisite dining

DON’T MISS Dinner by Heston

PRICE From £588 (US$807) per night in September

CONTACT 66 Knightsbridge; +44 (0)20 7235 2000; mandarinoriental.com/london

SEPTEMBER 2021

65

T R I E D & T E S T E D R E S TAU R A N T

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

66

B A C K G R O U N D Dinner was conceived in the late ‘90s by Heston Blumenthal, a British chef regarded a pioneer of multisensory cooking, food pairing and flavour encapsulation. His fascination with historic gastronomy – the savoury ice creams of the late 1800s, the theatre of Tudor dining experiences and the dishes of Alice’s adventures in Wonderland – all resonated with his unique approach to cooking, so he teamed up with fellow chef Ashley Palmer-Watts, food historians and the team at Hampton Court Palace to create a very modern dining experience inspired by the past. Dinner

by Heston was CUISINE launched at the Modern dishes Mandarin Oriental inspired by historic Hyde Park in 2011 British gastronomy and 10 years on, MENU the two-MichelinÀ la carte starred restaurant remains one of MICHELIN STAR S London’s premier Two dining destinations.

W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? A fitting menu backdrop, the restaurant’s interior is contemporary and innovative, yet nods tradition. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls reveal the kitchen’s unique pulley system, modelled on a version used by the Royal court, and ivory-painted walls are decorated with porcelain wall sconces in the shape of antique jelly moulds. The uninterrupted views of Hyde Park, King Henry VIII’s former hunting grounds, bringing the restaurant’s historical connection full circle.

T H E F O O D The cuisine takes inspiration

from facts, events and recipes dating back to the 13th century and this is reflected on the menu, with the source of origin explained for every dish. For example, Hay Smoked Salmon (1730 The Complete Practical Cook by Charles Carter); Roast Halibut & Green Sauce (1440 by Elias Ashmole); and Tipsy Cake (1810 The English Cookery Book by J.H. Walsh).

This really sets the scene, but nothing

HOURS

Open for lunch and dinner, seven days a week

LOCATION

Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park, London, Knightsbridge

DRESS CODE Casual

CONTACT

+44 (0)20 7201 3833; dinnerbyheston.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 2021

The dishes take inspiration from facts, events and recipes dating as far back as the 13th century

can really prepare you for the taste. Every dish was sensational and in my opinion, without fault. The smoked salmon entrée was delicate and melt-in-the-mouth, effortlessly balanced by the ‘Gentlemen’s relish and pickled lemon salad’ and the perfect precursor to the roast halibut main, which was firm yet tender. Its familiar mild and sweet taste was enhanced by fragrant braised chicory, plus parsley, pepper, onion and eucalyptus, hence the green sauce, which had just a hint of a curry flavour.

Sides were buttered bay carrots and triple cooked chips, which my partner enjoyed with his Fillet of Hereford Beef (circa 1830) with mushroom ketchup. And then came the dessert – the famous Tipsy Cake with spit roast pineapple, baked for one hour before serving and for me, reminiscent of a boozy bread-and-butter pudding with an almost brioche-like texture. It was quite simply sensational and I refused to share!

If you have room for more, the waiter will hand-mix you a palate-cleansing mini ice cream at your table side.

T H E S E R V I C E Staff were much more than waiters and sommeliers, but enthusiastic connoisseurs essential to the dining experience. Knowledgeable, professional, chatty and fun, they were crucial to the culinary theatre, whetting our appetites with their lively descriptions of the traditions that had inspired our dishes, as well as techniques and ingredients used.

V E R D I C T Dinner by Heston will stand the test of time as a memorable dining experience worthy of a gastro bucket list tick. Gemma Greenwood

Vibrant colors in Riyadh!

M O M E N T S T H AT L A S T F O R E V E R Step into a vibrant haven with uplifting experiences that will inspire you in every corner at voco® Riyadh an IHG hotel! One of the most sophisticated hotels in Riyadh, featuring 438 rooms and suites, located in Riyadh’s key business district and offering you a variety of fine restaurants and leisure facilities to indulge your senses. It also secures more than 400 underground parking spaces for guests. Dine in one of our six delightful restaurants and cafes; savor a refreshing juice on the sundeck after your swim or simply unwind in the sauna before a relaxing massage. Business travellers can use one of our 22 meeting rooms and a large hall that can accommodate more than 1,200 guests. At voco® Riyadh - an IHG Hotel, we promise you a heartfelt welcome and a comfortable stay.

One of the perks we certainly are proud of is our (IHG rewards club). With more than 5,600 hotels in nearly 100 countries, IHG Rewards Club provides more member-preferred features than any other hotel loyalty offering, combining more sought-after benefits into one powerful program that is simple and easy.

H O T E L I N F O R M AT I O N

King Fahad Road, Facing the Ministry of Interior, P.O. Box 13003, Riyadh 11493, KSA +966 11 457 9999 | vocohotels.com/Riyadh