As Eid approaches we turn our thoughts to travel and begin to make plans. With the likes of Athens, Petra, Mumbai, and Beirut all but a short flight away we look at luxe and less-travelled options to maximise the potential of cities well designed to be explored or relaxed in, in a short time-frame.
By Laura Beaney
Where: Petra (and around), Jordan
How: 3 hour flight
Best For: A Spa-Focused Experience
Kempinski Hotel Ishar
‘Welcome to the lowest point on Earth’. The enchanting Kempinski sits over 1400 feet below sea level and offers a luxurious location from which to explore the culturally rich surroundings, from the Dead Sea to the historical sites of Petra. After a day of adventure the Babylon-inspired destination affords guests with much needed relaxation in the form of free-form pools and three-bedroom villas, each offering spectacular seas views.
Highlights:
Experience the healing benefits of Dead Sea mud and salts through indulgent treatments at Anantara, the Middle East’s largest spa.
Kempinski Hotel, Ishar
Best For: Ethical Adventures
Feynan Ecolodge
With eco-tourism on the rise, the Feynan Ecolodge offers an unforgettable and ethical travel experience. Designed buy architect Ammar Khammash working with the caravanserais design principles, the lodge is the first of its kind and the most developed in Jordan. The 26 award-winning ecolodges are located on the rugged and mountainous Dana Biosphere Reserve with rooms running showers and meat-free fridges purely on solar power. Illuminated by candlelight by night, the interior design takes influence from the Bedouin culture with swatches of Syrian silk and mosaicked tiles in abundance.
Highlights:
Take advantage of the extensive activity programme that includes cooking, sunset hiking, biking and stargazing.
Feynan Eco Lodge, Jordan
Where: Mumbai, India
How: 3.5 hour flight
Best for: Regal Luxury
Taj Mahal Palace
Fully refurbished in 2010 following the Mumbai terror attacks, the Taj remains as opulent today as it was when it first opened its doors, back in 1903 – think alabaster ceilings, hand-woven carpets, and onyx columns. To give an idea of its magnitude, the palace is home to over 500 rooms, 44 suites and 8 restaurants. Overlooking the Gate Way of India in the upmarket Colaba district the Taj boasts one of the best locations in Mumbai. The go-to accommodation for celebrities, high profile dignitaries and royals alike, Prince William and Kate recently stayed at the Taj during their Indian tour.
Highlights:
The Architecture: The pre-colonial palace is as beautiful on the outside as it is within.
The Staff: Friendly and attentive, the solid reputation of the staff has helped to cement the hotel’s place as a global leader, they really cannot do enough for their discerning guests.
Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
Best for: Contemporary Convenience
Oberoi
Arguably one of the best hotels in Mumbai, the chic and contemporary Oberoi sits next to the Arabian sea with spectacular views and service to boot. Ideally located on the Marine Drive in the heart of Mumbai, guests can enjoy prime views of the glittering “Queen’s Necklace” a crescent of glimmering lights that illuminate the area by night. For those who don’t care to stick to traditional timings the Oberoi offers a 24-hour spa with treatments that range from traditional Ayurveda to modern holistic therapies as well as round-the-clock fitness and concierge services.
Highlights:
For comfort, female visitors have the option to request female chauffeurs and butlers to attend to them.
Oberoi, Mumbai
