Eid Al Adha is fast approaching, and a week-long holiday has just been announced for the public sector (we’re still waiting to hear about the private sector). Looking to make the most of the days off with an Eid escape? These are the places we’re daydreaming about…
Kingfisher Lodge, Kalba
If you don’t want to stray too far from home, why not book a staycation at the gorgeous Kingfisher Lodge, located in Kalba – an exclave of Sharjah on the UAE’s East Coast. The boutique hotel features 20 luxurious tents (air-conditioned, naturally) overlooking the Indian Ocean, which each have their own private pool. Spend your days kayaking and paddle boarding through the neighbouring mangroves, or explore the area through guided nature walks and bird-watching expeditions. Of course, you could also head to the on-site spa for a relaxing massage. Rates start from Dhs1,100 for a mountain view tent. sharjahcollection.ae/kingfisher-lodge
Alila Jabal Akhdar, Oman
Perched 2,000 metres above sea level in the Al Hajar Mountains, this stunning resort offers an escape from the desert heat – temperatures are around 15 degrees cooler than in Muscat. Its mountaintop location makes it ideal for stargazing, with some of the clearest nighttime views in the region. Book their special Rock Star package, and you’ll enjoy a romantic dinner for two beneath the stars, as well as a private stargazing session and photography lesson where you’ll learn how to capture spectacular images of the night sky. Rates start from Dhs1,170 per night. alilahotels.com/jabalakhdar
Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s pristine southern coast is the perfect beach holiday destination, and the Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort is one of the most beautiful spots to make the most of it. Set on its own secluded beach amidst a former coconut plantation, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into paradise from the moment you enter the breathtaking open-air lobby. If you can drag yourself away from the pool, be sure to book yourself in to a Spice Spoons cooking class – you’ll venture to a local market by tuk-tuk to pick up fresh ingredients before heading back to the resort to learn how to cook up a Sri Lankan feast. Rates start from Dhs793 per night. anantara.com/en/peace-haven-tangalle
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
If you’ve been meaning to tick the Maldives off your bucket list, deals don’t come much better than this. The beautiful Conrad Maldives Rangali resort has a special offer where, if you stay for four to six nights, you’ll save 25 per cent. Located in the Maldives’ best diving and whale shark spotting area – and home to the world’s first undersea restaurant – there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Also, we love the sound of this – the resort offers an Instagram tour of the island’s most ‘grammable spots, offering advice on the best times of day for lighting (and they’ll even help you take the perfect new profile pic). Rates start from Dhs1,600 a night. conradmaldives.com
Six Senses Kaplankaya, Bodrum
Want a holiday that covers a little bit of everything? Stay at the Six Senses Kaplankaya in Bodrum, Turkey. Set on the Aegean coastline, the resort is within easy reach of many archeological sites, including two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Other experiences include village tours, visits to local bazaars, scuba diving, yacht cruises and village tours. Of course, no stay at a Six Senses resort would be complete without a trip to the luxurious Six Senses spa – be sure to try the signature hammam. Plus, book a four-night stay, and you’ll get an additional night free. Rates start from Dhs1,506 per night. sixsenses.com/resorts/kaplankaya
Images: Supplied
