ihg my weekend_jan'11
DESCRIPTION
A guide to IHG hotelsTRANSCRIPT
IHG My Weekend Cover January.indd 1 12/22/2010 5:24:35 PM
Untitled-1 1 12/22/2010 9:32:30 AM
There’s a world of superb weekend breaks out there: allow us to help you pick the perfect one for you...
It’s so easy to lose sight of your
weekends. In amidst the chores,
jobs and lost afternoons spent
popping in to the office ‘just
for a couple of hours’, those two
precious days all too often pass by
in an unmemorable flash. We’re
here to tell you it doesn’t have to
be this way. Just a few hours from
your door lie a wealth of weekend
possibilities – you can be pitching
down the fairway in Mauritius,
watching dolphins in Oman,
catching the sunset over Roman
ruins in Lebanon or waterparking in
Bahrain before you know it.
It’s all so much simpler than you
might imagine – just flick inside
our guide to 11 of the region’s best
destinations and start planning
a tailormade break to reconnect
with the people you love the most,
store up some lovely memories and
reclaim your weekend.Produced by HOT Media hotmediapublishing.com
Your weekend starts here
2 BahrainAqua parks and super souks.
4 egyptDesigner diving and Red Sea spas.
6 JordanChariot races and Wadi Rum sunsets.
8 KenyaStunning safaris and outdoor adventures.
10 KuwaitPicture-perfect parks and sky-high views.
12 LebanonSki resorts and ancient grottoes.
14 MauritiusLuxury cruises and playing with lion cubs.
16 OmanMountain treks and meeting turtles.
18 QatarDesert adventures and incredible Islamic art.
20 saudi arabiaRetail therapy and Madain Saleh.
22 the UaeHot-air balloons and fantastic golf courses.
24 Choose your hotelPerfect spots to rest your head.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 1 12/21/2010 2:12:58 PM
There’s a world of superb weekend breaks out there: allow us to help you pick the perfect one for you...
It’s so easy to lose sight of your
weekends. In amidst the chores,
jobs and lost afternoons spent
popping in to the office ‘just
for a couple of hours’, those two
precious days all too often pass by
in an unmemorable flash. We’re
here to tell you it doesn’t have to
be this way. Just a few hours from
your door lie a wealth of weekend
possibilities – you can be pitching
down the fairway in Mauritius,
watching dolphins in Oman,
catching the sunset over Roman
ruins in Lebanon or waterparking in
Bahrain before you know it.
It’s all so much simpler than you
might imagine – just flick inside
our guide to 11 of the region’s best
destinations and start planning
a tailormade break to reconnect
with the people you love the most,
store up some lovely memories and
reclaim your weekend.Produced by HOT Media hotmediapublishing.com
Your weekend starts here
2 BahrainAqua parks and super souks.
4 egyptDesigner diving and Red Sea spas.
6 JordanChariot races and Wadi Rum sunsets.
8 KenyaStunning safaris and outdoor adventures.
10 KuwaitPicture-perfect parks and sky-high views.
12 LebanonSki resorts and ancient grottoes.
14 MauritiusLuxury cruises and playing with lion cubs.
16 OmanMountain treks and meeting turtles.
18 QatarDesert adventures and incredible Islamic art.
20 saudi arabiaRetail therapy and Madain Saleh.
22 the UaeHot-air balloons and fantastic golf courses.
24 Choose your hotelPerfect spots to rest your head.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 1 12/21/2010 2:12:58 PM
3
ALL GOOD THINGS… Though Bahrain comprises 33 separate islands, it is the smallest of the GCC countries. WINTER WONDER November to March is the best time of year to visit, so set off for a winter break and swerve its sultry summers. HISTORY LESSON What’s now Bahrain was once the ancient land of Dilmun, the presumed home of the Garden of Eden.
Manama is an excellent place to get
an insight into this ancient nation,
and covers over six millenia of
history. Here you can learn about
Dilmun, the ancient civilisation of
legend thought to have been based
in Bahrain, as well as Bahrain’s
more recent history. You’ll also
enjoy the hall dedicated to the
natural history of the islands,
and the beautiful old Koranic
documents that are on display. For
a slice of modern Bahrain’s cultural
scene, meanwhile, swing by La
Fontaine Centre of Contemporary
Art (00 973 1 723 0123), an old
building which has been remade as
a home for exhibitions from around
the world.
FOr adventUreAdrenaline junkies will adore a visit
to Gulf Speed One, a go-kart track
in Manama (gulfspeedone.com)
where you can hire out turbo-
charged single or twin-engine
machines to zip around the track
at up to 40 miles per hour, trying
to shave seconds off your time and
beat your friends. And if you fancy
some aquatic action, why not go
wakeboarding, banana-boating,
sailing or waterskiing at the Coral
Beach Club on Al Fateh Corniche
(coralbeachbahrain.com).
FOr reLaxatiOnFew Bahraini experiences are as
calming or tranquil as taking a trip
out into the desert to see the Tree
of Life. It’s so unusual because it
stands completely on its own – a
great, green, centuries-old tree
with not a single other living plant
for miles around. Beautiful and
strangely moving.
PErfECT DiNNErs
EAT IN for family-friendly meals,
head to La Mosaique Restaurant (Crowne Plaza Bahrain 00 973 1 753 1122), where you’ll find all manner of bites showcased on its sprawling buffet tables.
seafood-lovers will be in their element at Waves (00 973 1 753 1122), where local fisherman deliver fresh fare daily. find it in the Crowne Plaza Bahrain.
savour traditional indian dishes at Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s newest eatery, Spices (00 973 1 753 1122).
EAT OUTCarnivores can get their meat fix at Seef’s Butcher Shop & Grill (00 973 1 717 2300), which serves up the tastiest of tenderloins.
BahraiN
Clockwise from far left: Al-Fateh Grand Mosque; Camel tour in desert; Family fun at
Lost Paradise of Dilmun; Gulf Speed One.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 3 12/21/2010 2:13:04 PM
2
BahrainFOr COUpLesStep through the Bab Al Bahrain
gate in Manama and you’ll find
yourself in the heart of the
charming and old-fashioned
Manama Souk – a great place
for couples to spend a leisurely
morning browsing the stalls, and
picking up trinkets and authentic
knick-knacks to take home,
stopping off for thick, rich coffees
along the way. If you prefer your
shopping air conditioned and
modern, head over to the Seef
neighbourhood, where you’ll find a
clutch of sparkling malls including
Dana Mall (particularly good for
fashion, danamall.net), The Bahrain
Mall (excellent for electronics,
thebahrainmall.com) and the
mighty Seef Mall (stacked with
good jewellery stores, seef.net).
FOr FaMiLiesKids will adore a day trip to
The Lost Paradise of Dilmun
(lpodwaterpark.com), a huge
waterpark filled with exciting
rides, including the pendulum-
style Boomerango slide, the
near-vertical Speed Slide and the
twisting Superbowl. There’s the
Paradise River, which you can bob
along on a tube, through caves
and waterfalls; the wave pool and
sandy beach; and the Family Raft
Ride – up to four people can get on
board and plummet down a chute
to a splash landing. Parents will
love chilling in the therapeutic spa
pool while their kids dash about in
the Rain Fortress, where they can
soak each other with water hoses,
stand under the gigantic tipping
water bucket and nip down one of
its mini slides.
FOr CULtUre The Bahrain National Museum in
The Bahrain National Museum is a great place to get an insight into this ancient nation
A small and friendly nation filled with cultural and adventurous surprises for the weekend tripper...
IHG My Weekend January.indd 2 12/21/2010 2:13:00 PM
3
ALL GOOD THINGS… Though Bahrain comprises 33 separate islands, it is the smallest of the GCC countries. WINTER WONDER November to March is the best time of year to visit, so set off for a winter break and swerve its sultry summers. HISTORY LESSON What’s now Bahrain was once the ancient land of Dilmun, the presumed home of the Garden of Eden.
Manama is an excellent place to get
an insight into this ancient nation,
and covers over six millenia of
history. Here you can learn about
Dilmun, the ancient civilisation of
legend thought to have been based
in Bahrain, as well as Bahrain’s
more recent history. You’ll also
enjoy the hall dedicated to the
natural history of the islands,
and the beautiful old Koranic
documents that are on display. For
a slice of modern Bahrain’s cultural
scene, meanwhile, swing by La
Fontaine Centre of Contemporary
Art (00 973 1 723 0123), an old
building which has been remade as
a home for exhibitions from around
the world.
FOr adventUreAdrenaline junkies will adore a visit
to Gulf Speed One, a go-kart track
in Manama (gulfspeedone.com)
where you can hire out turbo-
charged single or twin-engine
machines to zip around the track
at up to 40 miles per hour, trying
to shave seconds off your time and
beat your friends. And if you fancy
some aquatic action, why not go
wakeboarding, banana-boating,
sailing or waterskiing at the Coral
Beach Club on Al Fateh Corniche
(coralbeachbahrain.com).
FOr reLaxatiOnFew Bahraini experiences are as
calming or tranquil as taking a trip
out into the desert to see the Tree
of Life. It’s so unusual because it
stands completely on its own – a
great, green, centuries-old tree
with not a single other living plant
for miles around. Beautiful and
strangely moving.
PErfECT DiNNErs
EAT IN for family-friendly meals,
head to La Mosaique Restaurant (Crowne Plaza Bahrain 00 973 1 753 1122), where you’ll find all manner of bites showcased on its sprawling buffet tables.
seafood-lovers will be in their element at Waves (00 973 1 753 1122), where local fisherman deliver fresh fare daily. find it in the Crowne Plaza Bahrain.
savour traditional indian dishes at Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s newest eatery, Spices (00 973 1 753 1122).
EAT OUTCarnivores can get their meat fix at Seef’s Butcher Shop & Grill (00 973 1 717 2300), which serves up the tastiest of tenderloins.
BahraiN
Clockwise from far left: Al-Fateh Grand Mosque; Camel tour in desert; Family fun at
Lost Paradise of Dilmun; Gulf Speed One.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 3 12/21/2010 2:13:04 PM
5
country’s main seat of power,
the Citadel, which comprises
palaces (now museums) and an
impenetrable fortress. In Fustat,
the city which originally stood
south of where Cairo now is, you
can visit the oldest mosque in
Africa which has undergone so
many architectural reinventions
it’s now unrecognisable from its
original structure.
FOr adventUreThe next item on the agenda of
thrill-seekers who’ve already done
snowboarding and wakeboarding
has got to be sandboarding. We’re
not talking going down a little hill
on a tray – this is serious business:
the dunes in the Western Desert
are some of the biggest in the
world at up to 300 metres high,
and participants in the sport get
fully kitted out with boards and
boots. Given the lack of chair lifts,
it’s pretty exhausting, but also
brilliant fun.
FOr reLaxatiOnIf the very thought of getting
horizontal by a quiet pool, chilled
juice in hand, sends you into
raptures, make a beeline for the
InterContinental Abu Soma resort
in Hurghada (00 20 65 326 0700).
It’s set on the idyllic Red Sea
coastline, where hundreds of
palm trees are dotted around the
surrounding twin bays and the
enormous free-form swimming
pool, complete with cave shelters,
is perfect for a spot of wallowing if
you can’t quite muster the energy
to walk to the private beach.
For true indulgence, you should
book up a treatment or two (we
recommend the Bangkok Mist,
incorporating Thai massage,
coconut scrub and coffee body
peel) at the hotel’s spa.
The dunes in the Western Desert are some of the biggest in the world at up to 300 metres high
EAT IN Tuck into an à la carte menu
then enjoy an after-dinner shisha pipe at Tannour (00 20 65 326 0700) – interContinental abu soma resort’s fantastic Lebanese restaurant.
for fabulous international cuisine (rustled up in live cooking stations), book a table at Souq Al Hana Restaurant (00 20 65 336 0000) at Crowne Plaza sahara Oasis in Port Ghalib.
Grab a light bite at The Pool Deck (interContinental The Palace Port Ghalib resort, 00 20 65 336 0000) and drink in fine views of the red sea as you eat.
EAT OUTa huge helping of atmosphere is served up with siwan dishes at Bab Inshal (Midal el souq, siwan, 00 46 460 1499). it overlooks the ruins of shali.
PErfECT DiNNErs
EGYPT
Opposite page, left to right: Felucca on the Nile; Snorkelling at Sharm El Sheikh. This page, clockwise from left: Giza’s pyramids; Room at InterContinental Cairo, Cairo Citadel.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 5 12/21/2010 2:13:12 PM
4
EgyptFOr COUpLes You won’t want to miss out on
a glorious cruise down the Nile,
one of the most eye-opening
experiences in the country. But for
something more off-the-beaten
track, consider heading to the
Sahara’s Western Desert where
you can witness the majesty of an
oasis with your partner, a memory
you will cherish forever. There
are four main oases to check out:
Siwa, Baharia, Farafra and Dakhla.
The 80km-long Siwa is dotted
with limestone outcrops, mineral
springs and two salt lakes, and
its abundant date and olive trees
make it feel like a real haven.
Dakhla is so verdant you could
almost forget you’re in the desert;
tranquil Farafra is ideal for couples
seeking solitude; and Baharia is
accessible by road so it’s ideal if
you don’t want to have to make a
major excursion of it.
FOr FaMiLies The Red Sea is known throughout
the world for its fantastic
snorkelling and diving. Head to the
beautiful resort of Sharm El Sheikh
and you’ll experience crystal clear
waters, white sands and vibrant
coral reefs bursting with tropical
fish, turtles and sometimes even
dolphins. Be sure to get rash vests
for the kids as it will stop their
backs from getting burned in the
intense sun, and save on luggage
space by hiring equipment while
you’re there.
FOr CULtUreObviously, Egypt’s most well-
known attraction is the pyramids,
and they are a must-see (as is the
Egyptian Museum in Cairo) – but
there is far more to this fascinating
country. Ever since the downfall of
the Byzantine Empire in 642AD,
Egypt has been an Islamic country
and its rich history of different
dynasties has resulted in an
incredible array of mosques, their
elegant domes and cloud-poking
minarets peppering the skyline.
Many can be found within the
TOP TIP it’s customary to tip for services in Egypt, even if it’s for the pressing of a button in a lift – so have loose coins at the ready. SIZE MATTERS Egypt stretches over 1 million square kilometers – around the size of france and Germany combined. HARD LIVING ancient Egyptians used to sleep on pillows made of stone.
Thought egypt was just pyramids and nothing more? Time to think again…
IHG My Weekend January.indd 4 12/21/2010 2:13:08 PM
5
country’s main seat of power,
the Citadel, which comprises
palaces (now museums) and an
impenetrable fortress. In Fustat,
the city which originally stood
south of where Cairo now is, you
can visit the oldest mosque in
Africa which has undergone so
many architectural reinventions
it’s now unrecognisable from its
original structure.
FOr adventUreThe next item on the agenda of
thrill-seekers who’ve already done
snowboarding and wakeboarding
has got to be sandboarding. We’re
not talking going down a little hill
on a tray – this is serious business:
the dunes in the Western Desert
are some of the biggest in the
world at up to 300 metres high,
and participants in the sport get
fully kitted out with boards and
boots. Given the lack of chair lifts,
it’s pretty exhausting, but also
brilliant fun.
FOr reLaxatiOnIf the very thought of getting
horizontal by a quiet pool, chilled
juice in hand, sends you into
raptures, make a beeline for the
InterContinental Abu Soma resort
in Hurghada (00 20 65 326 0700).
It’s set on the idyllic Red Sea
coastline, where hundreds of
palm trees are dotted around the
surrounding twin bays and the
enormous free-form swimming
pool, complete with cave shelters,
is perfect for a spot of wallowing if
you can’t quite muster the energy
to walk to the private beach.
For true indulgence, you should
book up a treatment or two (we
recommend the Bangkok Mist,
incorporating Thai massage,
coconut scrub and coffee body
peel) at the hotel’s spa.
The dunes in the Western Desert are some of the biggest in the world at up to 300 metres high
EAT IN Tuck into an à la carte menu
then enjoy an after-dinner shisha pipe at Tannour (00 20 65 326 0700) – interContinental abu soma resort’s fantastic Lebanese restaurant.
for fabulous international cuisine (rustled up in live cooking stations), book a table at Souq Al Hana Restaurant (00 20 65 336 0000) at Crowne Plaza sahara Oasis in Port Ghalib.
Grab a light bite at The Pool Deck (interContinental The Palace Port Ghalib resort, 00 20 65 336 0000) and drink in fine views of the red sea as you eat.
EAT OUTa huge helping of atmosphere is served up with siwan dishes at Bab Inshal (Midal el souq, siwan, 00 46 460 1499). it overlooks the ruins of shali.
PErfECT DiNNErs
EGYPT
Opposite page, left to right: Felucca on the Nile; Snorkelling at Sharm El Sheikh. This page, clockwise from left: Giza’s pyramids; Room at InterContinental Cairo, Cairo Citadel.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 5 12/21/2010 2:13:12 PM
7
SNOW BUSINESS it might be the desert, but even the sandiest terrains dip to chillier climes in winter – snow has known to settle in amman. OH BROTHER Jordan was known as Philadelphia in ancient times, meaning ‘City of Brotherly Love’. FEELING LOW Jordan’s Dead sea is the lowest point on the planet.
EAT IN Enjoy succulent steaks and some
beautifully prepared local dishes at Below 393 (holiday inn resort Dead sea, 00 962 5 349 5555).
Munch on Mezzas with friends at Al Halaby Restaurant (Crowne Plaza ammam 00 962 6 551 0001) – it’s the first aleppo restaurant in ammam.
if you’re looking for a relaxing bite, head to The Atrium (interContinental Jordan, 00 962 6 464 1361) and help yourself to its splendidly lavish buffet.
EAT OUTMezze and meat awaits you at Fakhr El-Din (40 Taha hussein st, Jebel ammam), an enjoyably authentic spot housed inside a 1950s-style Jordanian villa.
PErfECT DiNNErs
it. Best recognised for its role in
Indiana Jones, Petra was entirely
carved into the stone of the red-
rocked mountains in 100BCE and
remained undiscovered by the
western world until 1812. Its fortress-
like construction was a smart move,
as it was built on a major trade route
passed through by those travelling
between Gaza, Damascus, Aqaba
and Leuce Come on the Red Sea,
and the area contained a perennial
stream which essentially turned the
city into an artificial oasis. It’s an
enormous area to explore so
make sure you wear comfortable
walking shoes.
FOr adventUreYou haven’t seen a wadi until
you’ve seen Wadi Rum. Soaring
dramatically above the desert
sands, the vast sandstone and
granite ridges that flank the valley
have been eroded over thousands
of years by fresh water springs,
leading to the wadi becoming a
handy meeting point for caravans
and Bedouin tribes, some of whom
inhabit the wadi to this day. The
breathtaking beauty of sunset and
sunrise at Wadi Rum has to be seen
to be believed, so make the most
of your trip by camping overnight
(wadirumsunset.com offers good
overnight trips) – then you can also
lie beneath more stars than you
would have thought could possibly
exist in one sky.
FOr reLaxatiOnWhat could be more relaxing than
bobbing around in the sea without
even having to tread water? Head
to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on
Earth, and you can do just that, due
to the exceedingly high salt content
of the water. It’s a bizarre sensation
and one to do now – environmental
groups have warned that it may
have disappeared by 2050.
JOrDaN
The breathtaking beauty of sunset and sunrise at Wadi Rum has to be seen to be truly believed
Opposite page, top to bottom: Stunning Petra; Floating on the Dead Sea; Petra’s tombs. This page, clockwise from left: Salt formations at the Red Sea; King Hussein’s Mosque; Natural arch in Wadi Rum.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 7 12/21/2010 2:13:28 PM
6
JordanFOr COUpLes The Jordanian capital of Amman is
a must-visit for couples: as well as
being an excellent base from which
to explore the northwestern parts
of the country, the city is filled with
history in the form of the Roman
amphitheatre and the citadel.
Shopaholic couples will be in their
element – as well as the souks and
street stalls of the central downtown
area (Balad), there are malls galore
(our top recommendation is the
excellent City Mall).
FOr FaMiLies Looking for a truly unique way to
keep the kids entertained? Few
mini-holidaymakers would turn
their noses up at watching a real
live chariot race (jerashchariots.
com). Head to the hippodrome
at Jerash (about 50 minutes’
drive from Amman) and you can
wander around the 6,500-year-old
Greco-Roman site, where toga-clad
legionnaires roam the walkways and
mingle with the tourists. A trumpet
blare proclaims the beginning of
the pre-race fight, and Roman
soldiers emerge and battle it out in
gladiatorial contests, hurling spears
and crossing swords in a scarily
convincing manner. Next, decide
which team to support and watch
from the edge of your seat as four
horse-drawn chariots zoom through
their seven laps. Unmissable.
FOr CULtUreOne of the new seven wonders of
the world, Petra is absolutely
spectacular; a trip to Jordan would
be incomplete without seeing
From chariot racing and ancient ruins to boutique shopping, Jordan has something for everyone...
IHG My Weekend January.indd 6 12/21/2010 2:13:23 PM
7
SNOW BUSINESS it might be the desert, but even the sandiest terrains dip to chillier climes in winter – snow has known to settle in amman. OH BROTHER Jordan was known as Philadelphia in ancient times, meaning ‘City of Brotherly Love’. FEELING LOW Jordan’s Dead sea is the lowest point on the planet.
EAT IN Enjoy succulent steaks and some
beautifully prepared local dishes at Below 393 (holiday inn resort Dead sea, 00 962 5 349 5555).
Munch on Mezzas with friends at Al Halaby Restaurant (Crowne Plaza ammam 00 962 6 551 0001) – it’s the first aleppo restaurant in ammam.
if you’re looking for a relaxing bite, head to The Atrium (interContinental Jordan, 00 962 6 464 1361) and help yourself to its splendidly lavish buffet.
EAT OUTMezze and meat awaits you at Fakhr El-Din (40 Taha hussein st, Jebel ammam), an enjoyably authentic spot housed inside a 1950s-style Jordanian villa.
PErfECT DiNNErs
it. Best recognised for its role in
Indiana Jones, Petra was entirely
carved into the stone of the red-
rocked mountains in 100BCE and
remained undiscovered by the
western world until 1812. Its fortress-
like construction was a smart move,
as it was built on a major trade route
passed through by those travelling
between Gaza, Damascus, Aqaba
and Leuce Come on the Red Sea,
and the area contained a perennial
stream which essentially turned the
city into an artificial oasis. It’s an
enormous area to explore so
make sure you wear comfortable
walking shoes.
FOr adventUreYou haven’t seen a wadi until
you’ve seen Wadi Rum. Soaring
dramatically above the desert
sands, the vast sandstone and
granite ridges that flank the valley
have been eroded over thousands
of years by fresh water springs,
leading to the wadi becoming a
handy meeting point for caravans
and Bedouin tribes, some of whom
inhabit the wadi to this day. The
breathtaking beauty of sunset and
sunrise at Wadi Rum has to be seen
to be believed, so make the most
of your trip by camping overnight
(wadirumsunset.com offers good
overnight trips) – then you can also
lie beneath more stars than you
would have thought could possibly
exist in one sky.
FOr reLaxatiOnWhat could be more relaxing than
bobbing around in the sea without
even having to tread water? Head
to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on
Earth, and you can do just that, due
to the exceedingly high salt content
of the water. It’s a bizarre sensation
and one to do now – environmental
groups have warned that it may
have disappeared by 2050.
JOrDaN
The breathtaking beauty of sunset and sunrise at Wadi Rum has to be seen to be truly believed
Opposite page, top to bottom: Stunning Petra; Floating on the Dead Sea; Petra’s tombs. This page, clockwise from left: Salt formations at the Red Sea; King Hussein’s Mosque; Natural arch in Wadi Rum.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 7 12/21/2010 2:13:28 PM
9
RAINY DAYS Kenya’s rain season takes place from april to June when it can fall heavily for days at a time. JUNGLE BOOK Visit between June and september and you’ll see the annual migration of wilderbeast, which makes for a truly spectacular sight. THREE TONGUES English and swahili are Kenya’s two official languages, while Maa is spoken by the Maasai tribes.
world class safaris are the best way
to get painstakingly close to some
of the most powerful animals on
the planet; just take your pick from
an abundance of tour operators,
like Opulent Africa (opulentafrica.
com). If you prefer, leave the 4x4
behind, get your walking boots on
and head out to the soaring Ngong
Hills of southwest Nairobi – an
outstanding place for trekking.
Alternatively, set off to Africa’s
second tallest peak, Mount Kenya,
where you can stretch your legs
over its glacial ridges. Water-
lovers, meanwhile, can take to the
sea for deep-sea fishing or visit
the national parks of Malindi or
Watamu and swim among a flurry
of fish while snorkelling on the
Indian Ocean coast.
FOr reLaxatiOnSwap Kenya’s more enduring
treks for a gentle stroll through
the historical Uhuru Gardens,
where you’ll come face-to-face
with a huge monument of a dove
perched upon a pair of embracing
hands; signifying peace. An even
more wistful setting exists on
Lamu Island, home to Kenya’s
oldest town and a place that
will transport you to a bygone
era. There you’ll discover Shela
Beach, a truly relaxing stretch of
powder-white sands. If you want
a complete escape from all the
outdoor activities, book a massage
at InterContinental Nairobi’s spa
(icshotelsgroup.com) but don’t
leave without experiencing its
brilliant Turkish bath.
PErfECT DiNNErs
EAT IN What better place to dine than in
the open-air? Do so on the romantic terrace of La Prugna D’Oro (00 254 20 320 0000) – interContinental Nairobi’s italian restaurant. its risotto Con Zucca is a must-try.
You’ll get a real Kenyan flavour from the outdoor Safari Bar (interContinental Nairobi, 00 254 20 320 0000) where swaying palm trees compliment its relaxed platters – perfect for two.
Northern india is where you’ll be transported to during a meal at Bhandini (interContinental Nairobi, 00 254 20 320 0000) – expect high-end cuisine, prepared in a see-through kitchen.
EAT OUTfor red meat on a large-scale, head to Carnivore (City square, Nairobi 00 254 20 600 5933) where all meats are roasted over hot charcoal and carved at your table.
KENYa
Opposite page: Clockwise from left to right: Mount Kilimanjaro; Pink flamingo at Nakuru National Park. This page, clockwise from left: Rift Valley; Giraffe Centre; InterContinental Nairobi.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 9 12/21/2010 2:13:36 PM
8
FOr COUpLesKenya’s stunning surrounds are
perhaps best experienced with
a loved-one – and there’s an
abundance of breathtaking parks
through which to take a gentile
stroll. Though its name may not
conjure up romance, Hell’s Gate
National Park (www.kws.org)
reveals spectacular sights of
natural beauty. Experience them
together on foot – or hire bicycles
– and behold dramatic hills and
gorges; you can even spend a night
under the stars at its camp site.
Alternatively, leave dry land behind
and take to the Kenyan skies with a
hot air balloon ride over the Masia
Mara. And if that doesn’t tug at the
heart strings, there’s a whole host
of pristine Indian Ocean beaches
where you can while away giddy
days in the African sun.
FOr FaMiLiesWhatever your age, visitors can’t
fail to be amazed by Kenya’s
spellbinding wildlife and Tsavao
National Park – the largest park
in Kenya – is just one place in
which to spy proud lions, ambling
elephants and sleek leopards.
If you have smaller children in
tow, head to the Giraffe Centre in
Nairobi (www.giraffecenter.org)
where they can feed the gentle
giants by hand, or even plant a
kiss on the placid creatures. For
a more colourful sight, admire
the pretty pinks on show at Lake
Nakuru National Park – it’s famed
for its fluorescent flamingos which
line the lake’s borders in their
thousands.
FOr CULtUreIf you’ve ever read Karen Blixen’s
Out of Africa, you simply must visit
the farmhouse where she took
up residence from 1914 to 1931.
The colonial-style abode is now
known as Karen Blixen’s House
and Museum (blixencoffeegarden.
co.ke) and is set within picturesque
gardens – the perfect place
in which to ponder its history.
Another must-visit is the famous
National Museum of Kenya
(museums.or.ke), a venue that’s
simply brimming with enchanting
African artefacts. If it’s art you
crave, however, take a trip to
the charming Watatu Gallery
(gallerywatatu.com) and meander
between its eye-catching works of
traditional Kenyan art.
FOr adventUreThe great outdoors doesn’t get
much better – or more beautiful –
than the African wilderness, which
means the more adventurous
among you are in for a treat. Its
If it’s art you crave, take a trip to the charming Watatu Gallery for its traditional Kenyan art
From the bush to the beach, this enchanting east African country is a sight to behold…
Kenya
IHG My Weekend January.indd 8 12/21/2010 2:13:32 PM
9
RAINY DAYS Kenya’s rain season takes place from april to June when it can fall heavily for days at a time. JUNGLE BOOK Visit between June and september and you’ll see the annual migration of wilderbeast, which makes for a truly spectacular sight. THREE TONGUES English and swahili are Kenya’s two official languages, while Maa is spoken by the Maasai tribes.
world class safaris are the best way
to get painstakingly close to some
of the most powerful animals on
the planet; just take your pick from
an abundance of tour operators,
like Opulent Africa (opulentafrica.
com). If you prefer, leave the 4x4
behind, get your walking boots on
and head out to the soaring Ngong
Hills of southwest Nairobi – an
outstanding place for trekking.
Alternatively, set off to Africa’s
second tallest peak, Mount Kenya,
where you can stretch your legs
over its glacial ridges. Water-
lovers, meanwhile, can take to the
sea for deep-sea fishing or visit
the national parks of Malindi or
Watamu and swim among a flurry
of fish while snorkelling on the
Indian Ocean coast.
FOr reLaxatiOnSwap Kenya’s more enduring
treks for a gentle stroll through
the historical Uhuru Gardens,
where you’ll come face-to-face
with a huge monument of a dove
perched upon a pair of embracing
hands; signifying peace. An even
more wistful setting exists on
Lamu Island, home to Kenya’s
oldest town and a place that
will transport you to a bygone
era. There you’ll discover Shela
Beach, a truly relaxing stretch of
powder-white sands. If you want
a complete escape from all the
outdoor activities, book a massage
at InterContinental Nairobi’s spa
(icshotelsgroup.com) but don’t
leave without experiencing its
brilliant Turkish bath.
PErfECT DiNNErs
EAT IN What better place to dine than in
the open-air? Do so on the romantic terrace of La Prugna D’Oro (00 254 20 320 0000) – interContinental Nairobi’s italian restaurant. its risotto Con Zucca is a must-try.
You’ll get a real Kenyan flavour from the outdoor Safari Bar (interContinental Nairobi, 00 254 20 320 0000) where swaying palm trees compliment its relaxed platters – perfect for two.
Northern india is where you’ll be transported to during a meal at Bhandini (interContinental Nairobi, 00 254 20 320 0000) – expect high-end cuisine, prepared in a see-through kitchen.
EAT OUTfor red meat on a large-scale, head to Carnivore (City square, Nairobi 00 254 20 600 5933) where all meats are roasted over hot charcoal and carved at your table.
KENYa
Opposite page: Clockwise from left to right: Mount Kilimanjaro; Pink flamingo at Nakuru National Park. This page, clockwise from left: Rift Valley; Giraffe Centre; InterContinental Nairobi.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 9 12/21/2010 2:13:36 PM
11
COLOUR CODE after a cab? spot taxis by their orange license plates – and be sure to agree a fare before the off. SMALL PACKAGES With around only 18,000 square kilometers of land, Kuwait is one of the smallest countries on the planet. LOCKED DOWN The word ‘Kuwait’ derives from ‘Koot’, the arabic word for fortress.
you can get 400-foot-high vistas
of the city and have a cold drink as
the platform rotates around, giving
you a 360-degree perspective on
this hyper-modern city. If you’re
hungry you can enjoy a bite to
eat in the restaurant in the lower
sphere – perhaps after watching
the sun set over the city. You’ll also
want to visit the National Museum
on Arabian Gulf Street in Safat,
Kuwait City, which is home to a
treasure trove of Islamic art from
the Al-Sabah collection, alongside
displays on more recent areas of
Kuwaiti history.
FOr adventUreFor some serious action to get your
heart racing, sign up for a game
or two of paintball at Kuwait Aqua
Park (aquaparkkuwait.com). The
aqua park is also home to the little-
known but highly fun game of Soap
Football – you play a regular game
of soccer but on a highly slippy
surface covered in soap suds.
They also have go-karts on offer
plus, naturally, some high-speed
water slides, and wave pools. It’s
a brilliant place to go for a day of
activities in the sun.
FOr reLaxatiOnOne of the simplest – and best
– ways to relax while here is to
take a stroll and catch some sun
in the beautifully-maintained
Kuwait Municipal Gardens in Fahd
Al-Salem Street. You’ll also love
the Kuwait Musical Fountain on the
First Ring Road, a light and water
spectacular, featuring scores of
spouting water jets, which kicks
into action from 6pm each night.
Another restful way to spend an
afternoon is to pay a visit to the
Zoological Park on Airport Road,
home to 129 bird species plus
tigers, lions, giraffes and zebras.
EAT IN if you’re in the mood for italian,
let the chefs at Crowne Plaza Kuwait’s Viaggio (00 965 247 5 7775) satisfy your appetite with their Tuscan-style cooking. Belissimo!
indulge in classic iranian bites at Shabestan (Crowne Plaza Kuwait 00 965 247 5 7775).
The Ayam Zaman (holiday inn Kuwait, 00 965 2 576 0000) specialises in expertly-cooked Lebanese dishes, so head here for great grills and superb salads.
EAT OUTfor a taste of the real Kuwait, try the Palm Palace (salmiya, hamad al-Mubarak st, 00 965 571 5 283) where bread is made in a stone oven, coffee is served up on pillows and the scent of shisha fills the air.
PErfECT DiNNErs
KuWaiT
Opposite page, left to right: Kuwait Towers; Viewing gallery at Kuwait Towers; Philae; View out towards Kuwait City; Souq Sharq.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 11 12/21/2010 2:13:41 PM
10
FOr COUpLes Kuwait boasts a first-class
shopping scene, with lavish malls
where couples can immerse
themselves in some serious
weekend browsing. Marina Mall and
Souk Sharq, both on the Gulf Road,
are good starting points. Follow
up with a trip to The Avenues (the-
avenues.com), Kuwait’s biggest
mall, a high-ceilinged, futuristically
designed, palm-dotted space with
dozens of designer brands. Round
off your visit with a few hours in
Villa Moda in Shuwaikh, Kuwait
City (villa-moda.com). This modern
spot is split into ten glass-lined
‘aquaria’, each dedicated to specific
brands – including high-end names
like Prada, Yves Saint-Laurent and
Gucci – with a couple of multi-
brand areas thrown in where you’ll
find the likes of Evisu, Seven For
All Mankind and Antik Denim. For
a more traditional retail session,
meanwhile, you should hit the Souk
Al Mubarakiya, which is particularly
good for gold jewellery.
FOr FaMiLiesThe Scientific Centre in Salmiya
(tsck.org.kw) is a wonderful
place to take kids. There’s an
extensive aquarium with a 1.5
million litre tank filled with exotic
sealife – don’t miss the regular
shark-feeding sessions – and an
IMAX cinema showing kid-centric
films like ‘Under The Sea’, ‘Fly
Me To The Moon’ and ‘3D Bugs’.
Your children will also love the
‘Discovery Place’ section, where
visitors play with interactive
exhibits which showcase scientific
ideas and principles. In between
hands-on play and talks from
special ‘Explainers’, there are
computerised puppet shows
each day, which bring home
environmental messages to
children. You may also be lucky
enough to be there on a day when
the Starlab Planetarium is in action:
it’s an entertaining and inspiring
experience for adults and little
ones alike.
FOr CULtUre To get an overview of Kuwait City,
head to the iconic Kuwait Towers in
Sharq, and climb up to the Viewing
Sphere in the first tower, where
You’ll want to visit the National Museum which is home to a treasure trove of Islamic art
embark on a journey of discovery in kuwait, a country packed with exciting things to see and do...
Kuwait
IHG My Weekend January.indd 10 12/21/2010 2:13:39 PM
11
COLOUR CODE after a cab? spot taxis by their orange license plates – and be sure to agree a fare before the off. SMALL PACKAGES With around only 18,000 square kilometers of land, Kuwait is one of the smallest countries on the planet. LOCKED DOWN The word ‘Kuwait’ derives from ‘Koot’, the arabic word for fortress.
you can get 400-foot-high vistas
of the city and have a cold drink as
the platform rotates around, giving
you a 360-degree perspective on
this hyper-modern city. If you’re
hungry you can enjoy a bite to
eat in the restaurant in the lower
sphere – perhaps after watching
the sun set over the city. You’ll also
want to visit the National Museum
on Arabian Gulf Street in Safat,
Kuwait City, which is home to a
treasure trove of Islamic art from
the Al-Sabah collection, alongside
displays on more recent areas of
Kuwaiti history.
FOr adventUreFor some serious action to get your
heart racing, sign up for a game
or two of paintball at Kuwait Aqua
Park (aquaparkkuwait.com). The
aqua park is also home to the little-
known but highly fun game of Soap
Football – you play a regular game
of soccer but on a highly slippy
surface covered in soap suds.
They also have go-karts on offer
plus, naturally, some high-speed
water slides, and wave pools. It’s
a brilliant place to go for a day of
activities in the sun.
FOr reLaxatiOnOne of the simplest – and best
– ways to relax while here is to
take a stroll and catch some sun
in the beautifully-maintained
Kuwait Municipal Gardens in Fahd
Al-Salem Street. You’ll also love
the Kuwait Musical Fountain on the
First Ring Road, a light and water
spectacular, featuring scores of
spouting water jets, which kicks
into action from 6pm each night.
Another restful way to spend an
afternoon is to pay a visit to the
Zoological Park on Airport Road,
home to 129 bird species plus
tigers, lions, giraffes and zebras.
EAT IN if you’re in the mood for italian,
let the chefs at Crowne Plaza Kuwait’s Viaggio (00 965 247 5 7775) satisfy your appetite with their Tuscan-style cooking. Belissimo!
indulge in classic iranian bites at Shabestan (Crowne Plaza Kuwait 00 965 247 5 7775).
The Ayam Zaman (holiday inn Kuwait, 00 965 2 576 0000) specialises in expertly-cooked Lebanese dishes, so head here for great grills and superb salads.
EAT OUTfor a taste of the real Kuwait, try the Palm Palace (salmiya, hamad al-Mubarak st, 00 965 571 5 283) where bread is made in a stone oven, coffee is served up on pillows and the scent of shisha fills the air.
PErfECT DiNNErs
KuWaiT
Opposite page, left to right: Kuwait Towers; Viewing gallery at Kuwait Towers; Philae; View out towards Kuwait City; Souq Sharq.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 11 12/21/2010 2:13:41 PM
13
OLD TIMER The country’s capital, Beirut, is one of the oldest populated cities in the world. PARTY PEOPLE The Lebanese are known for their love of life, warm natures and wild spirit. Don’t expect to head to bed before dawn. LIGHT FANTASTIC Lebanon is also known as the ‘Paris of the East.’
a huge hippodrome. The palace at
Beiteddine to the south of Beirut
is also wonderful, a beautiful 18th
century mix of Arabic and Italian
architectural styles.
FOr adventUreLebanon has long been famed
as the place where you can hit
the beach in the morning and
ski in the afternoon. The skiing is
wonderful – up in the mountains
outside Beirut you’ll find a series of
excellent resorts, including Mzaar,
The Cedars and Bakish. Once
you’ve tackled some Lebanese
red runs, you might like to head
over to the coastline down from
Tyre, where you can head out on
snorkelling or scuba-diving trips
and get to explore sunken ruins of
ancient cities.
FOr reLaxatiOnBeirut is a walkable city,
particularly in the centre. The new
heart is the Downtown area, where
you can saunter around admiring
the wonderful 19th century French-
inspired architecture, popping
in and out of the many boutique
stores which line the boulevards.
The real joy, though, comes
with snagging a seat at one
of the roadside cafés on the
pedestrianised Maarad Street,
where you can settle in for an
evening of fruit-flavoured shisha,
outstanding food and, of course,
people-watching. Another great
place for shopping is the town of
Tripoli, where you can meander
among the souks and pick up
gorgeous Lebanese sweets and
olive oil.
EAT IN There’s a delicious mix
of local cuisine served up at interContinental Mzaar Lebanon’s Le Refuge, (00 961 9 340 100), where you can dig into fondue at the foot of snowy ski slopes.
sitting atop the Phoenician tower is Eau de Vie (00 961 1 369 100) – Phoenicia interContinental Beirut’s exquisite french eatery. Expect modern cuisine and breathtaking Med views.
spend late afternoon at the Crowne Plaza Beirut savouring a sumptuous high tea (amidst tropical gardens) at The Falls Lounge (00 961 1 754 755).
EAT OUTin the mood for seafood? saunter down to Casablanca (rue dar El-Mreisseh, Quaddoura building, 00 961 369 334) – an old Lebanese villa with Mediterranean sea views – for outstandingly fresh catches.
PErfECT DiNNErs
LEBaNON
Opposite page: Aerial view of Beirut. This page, clockwise from left: Bacchus temple at Heliopolis; Tyre; Snowy ski slopes.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 13 12/21/2010 2:13:53 PM
12
LebanonFOr COUpLes Just 15 miles outside of Beirut
you’ll find the extraordinary Jeita
Grotto, an underground network
of caves filled with stalactites
and stalagmites and beautifully
lit throughout. Couples will love
taking a boating cruise through
these ancient caverns – don’t
forget your camera. Another
great day trip is to Bcharre, near
the Kadisha Valley, where you’ll
find an ancient grove of age-
old cedar trees as well as the
splendid Al-Omari Mosque and
the Gibran Tomb and Museum,
where you can find out about the
life and works of the much-loved
Lebanese philosopher and artist
Khalil Gibran. You’ll also have a
great time wandering around
the neighbourhoods of Beirut
– check out Verdun, Hamra and
Achrafieh, all of which have lovely
architecture and great shopping.
FOr FaMiLiesOut in the Bekaa valley you’ll find
Baalbeck, a great place to visit
with kids, who can race around
the film set-like ancient temples
and monuments to their hearts’
content. And if you happen to be
in the country during the Baalbeck
festival (baalbeck.org.lb) in the
summertime (usually during
July-August) then you’ll be in for
fun, as hundreds of big-name
singers, dancers and artists from
across the globe descend on the
town to perform. If you’re looking
for a more active break, then
your kids will love swimming and
sandcastling on the beaches which
ring the Lebanese coast – the one
at Tyre is particularly fine.
FOr CULtUre When it comes to culture you’re
absolutely spoiled for choice.
There’s the ancient town of Byblos,
just along the coast from Beirut,
where you can spend the day
marvelling at the wonderfully
intact Roman ruins, before heading
down to the shorefront for some
barbecued fish, freshly caught a
stone’s throw away. Then there’s
the exquisitely preserved sites at
Tyre, where there are mosaic-lined
streets, ancient public baths and
From the Mediterranean shoreline to the snow-capped hillsides, you’ll love this country...
Out in the Bekaa valley you’ll find Baalbeck, a great place to visit with kids who can race around monuments
IHG My Weekend January.indd 12 12/21/2010 2:13:46 PM
13
OLD TIMER The country’s capital, Beirut, is one of the oldest populated cities in the world. PARTY PEOPLE The Lebanese are known for their love of life, warm natures and wild spirit. Don’t expect to head to bed before dawn. LIGHT FANTASTIC Lebanon is also known as the ‘Paris of the East.’
a huge hippodrome. The palace at
Beiteddine to the south of Beirut
is also wonderful, a beautiful 18th
century mix of Arabic and Italian
architectural styles.
FOr adventUreLebanon has long been famed
as the place where you can hit
the beach in the morning and
ski in the afternoon. The skiing is
wonderful – up in the mountains
outside Beirut you’ll find a series of
excellent resorts, including Mzaar,
The Cedars and Bakish. Once
you’ve tackled some Lebanese
red runs, you might like to head
over to the coastline down from
Tyre, where you can head out on
snorkelling or scuba-diving trips
and get to explore sunken ruins of
ancient cities.
FOr reLaxatiOnBeirut is a walkable city,
particularly in the centre. The new
heart is the Downtown area, where
you can saunter around admiring
the wonderful 19th century French-
inspired architecture, popping
in and out of the many boutique
stores which line the boulevards.
The real joy, though, comes
with snagging a seat at one
of the roadside cafés on the
pedestrianised Maarad Street,
where you can settle in for an
evening of fruit-flavoured shisha,
outstanding food and, of course,
people-watching. Another great
place for shopping is the town of
Tripoli, where you can meander
among the souks and pick up
gorgeous Lebanese sweets and
olive oil.
EAT IN There’s a delicious mix
of local cuisine served up at interContinental Mzaar Lebanon’s Le Refuge, (00 961 9 340 100), where you can dig into fondue at the foot of snowy ski slopes.
sitting atop the Phoenician tower is Eau de Vie (00 961 1 369 100) – Phoenicia interContinental Beirut’s exquisite french eatery. Expect modern cuisine and breathtaking Med views.
spend late afternoon at the Crowne Plaza Beirut savouring a sumptuous high tea (amidst tropical gardens) at The Falls Lounge (00 961 1 754 755).
EAT OUTin the mood for seafood? saunter down to Casablanca (rue dar El-Mreisseh, Quaddoura building, 00 961 369 334) – an old Lebanese villa with Mediterranean sea views – for outstandingly fresh catches.
PErfECT DiNNErs
LEBaNON
Opposite page: Aerial view of Beirut. This page, clockwise from left: Bacchus temple at Heliopolis; Tyre; Snowy ski slopes.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 13 12/21/2010 2:13:53 PM
15
GREAT DISCOVERY The then uninhabited island of Mauritius was discovered by Arab sailors in 975 AD. STUFFED BIRD Mauritius was the birthplace and resting ground of the Dodo, the flightless bird that couldn’t move to avoid hunters. SPEAK EASY English, French and Creole (a French-based dialect) are widely spoken across the island.
For Culture Sugar cane has long been a chief
driver of the Mauritian economy
and the sweet stuff is ingrained
in the very fabric of the country.
As such, L’Aventure Du Sucre
(aventuredusucre.com) is a great
place to go if you want to swot up
on the history of the island. You’ll
learn of epidemics and refineries,
slavery and sugar booms in a
well-thought-out and surprisingly
entertaining museum for kids and
adults alike. Another attraction
providing an overview of the
island’s past – largely through old
maps, paintings and etchings – is
The Blue Penny Stamp Museum.
You’ll find it next to Le Caudan
Waterfront in Port Louis, and it
houses two of the most famous
and expensive stamps in the world,
the Penny Stamps. The stamps
were originally issued in Mauritius
then bought back after they had
left the island’s shores for the
princely sum of $2 million.
For adventureTake a bird’s eye view of this
beautiful island via a helicopter
tour. The choppers seat up to
four people and there are various
helipads dotted around the island
where you can hop aboard. The
tour takes only 15 minutes, but in
that time you’ll see mountains,
jungles and beautiful swathes of
coastline. If that isn’t enough to
satisfy your head for heights, how
about a heart-racing walk along a
cable-thin wire, which is suspended
30 feet above a river? You can
book both of these adventures
through White Sand Tours
(whitesandtours.com). To keep
your adrenaline up, climb onto a
quad bike and speed through the
mountains at Domaine de l’Etoile,
also with White Sands: expect to
see deer, wild boar and monkeys.
For relaxationMauritius is awash with golf courses
where you can swing your stress
away. Head to the fine, mountain-
flanked fairways at the Tamarina
Golf Estate (tamarina.mu) – the first
course on the island unattached
to a hotel – which is wonderfully
welcoming to visitors and a real
joy to play. And when you’ve got
your round in (under-par, of course)
you might like to take a ten-minute
drive to Flic en Flac, and kick back
on what’s arguably the best public
beach on the island.
EAT In You’ll be spoilt for choice at
Senso (InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort, 00 230 261 1200); its international fare is quite simply excellent.
Ask for a beachside table at Segala (00 230 261 1200) in IntercContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort and feast on lobster and succulent king prawns by the sea.
The roasted duck is our top tip at the Asian fusion eatery, Noble House (00 230 261 1200). Find it at the InterContinental Mauritius Balaclava Fort.
EAT OUTDon’t miss the delectable desserts at La Villa Garden (Pereybere, Grand Bay 00 230 262 75 52). Mouthwatering Michelin-star food in a super-chic setting.
PERFECT DInnERs
MAuRITIus
IHG My Weekend January.indd 15 12/21/2010 2:10:44 PM
14
MauritiusFor CouplesMauritius offers postcard-perfect
views around every corner and the
best place to drink in its charms
is from the deck of an outsized
catamaran. You can hire one of
these from White Sand Tours
(whitesandtours.com), crew
included, for a private cruise across
the island’s colourful waters,
gliding past striking mountain
ranges and jungle terrain. If you’re
looking for a little romance, make
sure you book your cruise to
depart just before sunset, so you
can watch the sun slip away into
the ocean.
For FamiliesThere’s a whole heap of great
family activities in Mauritius,
especially if you share a love for
the great outdoors. Start out at the
Casela Nature Park (caselayemen.
mu), where you can watch or
even touch lion and cheetah cubs
in their enclosure, before hitting
the super chutes at Le Waterpark
(maurinet.com/waterpark), a small
but always enjoyable affair where,
chutes aside, adults can squeeze
themselves into rubber rings and
float along a lazy river while kids
can clamber aboard a pirate ship
complete with water-firing cannons
– great fun. Finally, hop aboard a
glass-bottomed boat – arrange this
through Fragawills (fragawills.com)
to see fantastically-hued tropical
fish dart below your feet.
There’s a whole heap of great family activities in Mauritius, especially if you love the outdoors
This is the Indian Ocean’s most exquisite island: get set for turquoise waters and heart-tugging scenery...
Mauritius’ beautiful coastline and a White Sands cruiser.Right: Noble House, Tamarina golf course, the pink pigeon
This page, from top to bottom: Aerial view of Mauritius; Boat sits on turquoise sea; InterContinental Resort Balaclava Fort
Mauritius. Opposite page: Local lobster.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 14 12/21/2010 2:10:42 PM
15
GREAT DISCOVERY The then uninhabited island of Mauritius was discovered by Arab sailors in 975 AD. STUFFED BIRD Mauritius was the birthplace and resting ground of the Dodo, the flightless bird that couldn’t move to avoid hunters. SPEAK EASY English, French and Creole (a French-based dialect) are widely spoken across the island.
For Culture Sugar cane has long been a chief
driver of the Mauritian economy
and the sweet stuff is ingrained
in the very fabric of the country.
As such, L’Aventure Du Sucre
(aventuredusucre.com) is a great
place to go if you want to swot up
on the history of the island. You’ll
learn of epidemics and refineries,
slavery and sugar booms in a
well-thought-out and surprisingly
entertaining museum for kids and
adults alike. Another attraction
providing an overview of the
island’s past – largely through old
maps, paintings and etchings – is
The Blue Penny Stamp Museum.
You’ll find it next to Le Caudan
Waterfront in Port Louis, and it
houses two of the most famous
and expensive stamps in the world,
the Penny Stamps. The stamps
were originally issued in Mauritius
then bought back after they had
left the island’s shores for the
princely sum of $2 million.
For adventureTake a bird’s eye view of this
beautiful island via a helicopter
tour. The choppers seat up to
four people and there are various
helipads dotted around the island
where you can hop aboard. The
tour takes only 15 minutes, but in
that time you’ll see mountains,
jungles and beautiful swathes of
coastline. If that isn’t enough to
satisfy your head for heights, how
about a heart-racing walk along a
cable-thin wire, which is suspended
30 feet above a river? You can
book both of these adventures
through White Sand Tours
(whitesandtours.com). To keep
your adrenaline up, climb onto a
quad bike and speed through the
mountains at Domaine de l’Etoile,
also with White Sands: expect to
see deer, wild boar and monkeys.
For relaxationMauritius is awash with golf courses
where you can swing your stress
away. Head to the fine, mountain-
flanked fairways at the Tamarina
Golf Estate (tamarina.mu) – the first
course on the island unattached
to a hotel – which is wonderfully
welcoming to visitors and a real
joy to play. And when you’ve got
your round in (under-par, of course)
you might like to take a ten-minute
drive to Flic en Flac, and kick back
on what’s arguably the best public
beach on the island.
EAT In You’ll be spoilt for choice at
Senso (InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort, 00 230 261 1200); its international fare is quite simply excellent.
Ask for a beachside table at Segala (00 230 261 1200) in IntercContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort and feast on lobster and succulent king prawns by the sea.
The roasted duck is our top tip at the Asian fusion eatery, Noble House (00 230 261 1200). Find it at the InterContinental Mauritius Balaclava Fort.
EAT OUTDon’t miss the delectable desserts at La Villa Garden (Pereybere, Grand Bay 00 230 262 75 52). Mouthwatering Michelin-star food in a super-chic setting.
PERFECT DInnERs
MAuRITIus
IHG My Weekend January.indd 15 12/21/2010 2:10:44 PM
17
CAVE MEn The oldest known human settlement in Oman dates all the way back to the stone Age. IT’S A DATE Oman’s plump dates are some of the best in the world – you’ll find them in every social spot. MAKES SCEnTS You can find Frankincense trees growing wild in Oman.
Muttrah Souk. And while in Muscat
you simply must visit the visually
stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand
Mosque, the real gem in the capital
city’s crown.
For adventureThe list of outdoor pursuits on
offer in Oman reads as long as your
arm. If you like your adventures
to be death-defying, head out
to Snake Canyon where you
can tip-toe across hair-raisingly
high wires which hang 100ft
above the ground, or have a
go at canyoning – a mixture of
trekking, climbing and quite often
swimming: see holiday-in-oman.
com for booking details. Through
the same website you can also
book to go quad-biking, sailing
or – one of our personal favourites
– sand-boarding amid huge dunes.
Mountain biking is also popular in
Oman, thanks to ever-changing
under-tyre terrain, but if we had to
recommend just one thing it would
have to be the deep sea fishing. It’s
simply brilliant.
For relaxationIn summertime Salalah, in the
south of Oman, is the envy of
the Gulf. Its high-peaked Qara
Mountains draw light rain showers
which bring a green-tinged
landscape and a temperature that’s
an average 10-15 degrees lower
than it is in other GCC countries.
As such, thousands of people
descend on Salalah each summer
to enjoy cooler climes and the
multiple celebrations which mark
the season. If you’re a seasoned
scuba-diver, Oman has some super
dive spots for you to enjoy, not
least in the Musandam area where
underwater visibility during the
summer is good and sightings of
dolphins and turtles are common.
Check out musandamdiving.com
for further details.
EAT In soak up the holiday atmosphere
at Crowne Plaza Muscat’s Tropicana (00968 2466 0660), where a whole host of themed nights take hold weekly – our pick is the al fresco barbecue by its glistening swimming pool.
The Dolphin Beach Restaurant (Crowne Plaza Resort salalah, 00 968 23 235 333) sits upon stretches of white sands, where you soak up ocean views – if you can avert your gaze from the array of live cooking stations and entertainment.
Get dressed up for an à la carte menu at stylish The Mediterranean (Crowne Plaza sohar, 00 968 26 850 850) where delicate dishes from southern Europe to northern Africa come beautifully presented.
EAT OUTLive sitar players strum in the background at Mumtaz Mahal (Way 2601 Qurm, 00 968 24 605 907) a quaint Indian eatery (and locals’ favourite) where Mughali dishes are eaten at traditional tables.
PERFECT DInnERs
OMAn
Opposite page: The stunning mountains in Oman. This page, left to right: The Grand Mosque in Muscat; Kiteboarding on the beautiful blue sea.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 17 12/21/2010 2:10:56 PM
16
OmanFor CouplesStunning scenery abounds in
Oman making it ripe for romance.
If you’re looking for something to
truly tug at the heartstrings, cruise
the country’s fjords. Muscat Diving
and Adventure Centre (holiday-
in-oman.com) has fully crewed,
soft-carpeted dhows available
for private hire so you can sail off
into the sunset. Your route will
be flanked by the mountains that
make up the Musandam Peninsula
– arguably nature’s finest offering
to the GCC.
For Families Head to the Musandam, hop
aboard a dhow and it will take
you out to where wild dolphins
leap in and out of the ocean. It’s
a fantastic spectacle and one
that everyone in the family will
enjoy. Another eye-opener is the
extraordinary sight of giant turtles
nesting on the beaches of Ras
Al Jinz – an estimated 30,000
turtles do this each year during
the winter months. Family fun of
a more adrenalin-fuelled nature
can be found at Xtreme Sports
(xtremesportsoman.com) in
Muscat, where you’ll find a state-
of-the-art paintball ground. Or how
about a visit to the foot of the Jabal
Shams – the highest point
in the whole of Eastern Arabia –
where you’ll find the must-see
Al Hoota Cave.
For CultureAbout an hour’s drive from Muscat
is Nizwa Fort, which is often cited
as the Sultanate’s finest historical
destination. It was built over 500
centuries ago to protect Oman’s
coastline from potential invaders
but these days it attracts only
tourists, keen to see a building
renowned for its architectural
ingenuity. One thing you’ll want to
buy while in Oman is Frankincense
– the country’s signature scent.
Salalah’s Old Souq, where
Frankincense is still sold from
open sacks, is probably the best
place to buy it, though you’re also
likely to find it in Muscat’s famous
If you’re looking for something to truly tug at the heartstrings, cruise the country’s fjords
Rich in history and culture and replete with stunning scenery, Oman is waiting to be explored...
IHG My Weekend January.indd 16 12/21/2010 2:10:49 PM
17
CAVE MEn The oldest known human settlement in Oman dates all the way back to the stone Age. IT’S A DATE Oman’s plump dates are some of the best in the world – you’ll find them in every social spot. MAKES SCEnTS You can find Frankincense trees growing wild in Oman.
Muttrah Souk. And while in Muscat
you simply must visit the visually
stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand
Mosque, the real gem in the capital
city’s crown.
For adventureThe list of outdoor pursuits on
offer in Oman reads as long as your
arm. If you like your adventures
to be death-defying, head out
to Snake Canyon where you
can tip-toe across hair-raisingly
high wires which hang 100ft
above the ground, or have a
go at canyoning – a mixture of
trekking, climbing and quite often
swimming: see holiday-in-oman.
com for booking details. Through
the same website you can also
book to go quad-biking, sailing
or – one of our personal favourites
– sand-boarding amid huge dunes.
Mountain biking is also popular in
Oman, thanks to ever-changing
under-tyre terrain, but if we had to
recommend just one thing it would
have to be the deep sea fishing. It’s
simply brilliant.
For relaxationIn summertime Salalah, in the
south of Oman, is the envy of
the Gulf. Its high-peaked Qara
Mountains draw light rain showers
which bring a green-tinged
landscape and a temperature that’s
an average 10-15 degrees lower
than it is in other GCC countries.
As such, thousands of people
descend on Salalah each summer
to enjoy cooler climes and the
multiple celebrations which mark
the season. If you’re a seasoned
scuba-diver, Oman has some super
dive spots for you to enjoy, not
least in the Musandam area where
underwater visibility during the
summer is good and sightings of
dolphins and turtles are common.
Check out musandamdiving.com
for further details.
EAT In soak up the holiday atmosphere
at Crowne Plaza Muscat’s Tropicana (00968 2466 0660), where a whole host of themed nights take hold weekly – our pick is the al fresco barbecue by its glistening swimming pool.
The Dolphin Beach Restaurant (Crowne Plaza Resort salalah, 00 968 23 235 333) sits upon stretches of white sands, where you soak up ocean views – if you can avert your gaze from the array of live cooking stations and entertainment.
Get dressed up for an à la carte menu at stylish The Mediterranean (Crowne Plaza sohar, 00 968 26 850 850) where delicate dishes from southern Europe to northern Africa come beautifully presented.
EAT OUTLive sitar players strum in the background at Mumtaz Mahal (Way 2601 Qurm, 00 968 24 605 907) a quaint Indian eatery (and locals’ favourite) where Mughali dishes are eaten at traditional tables.
PERFECT DInnERs
OMAn
Opposite page: The stunning mountains in Oman. This page, left to right: The Grand Mosque in Muscat; Kiteboarding on the beautiful blue sea.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 17 12/21/2010 2:10:56 PM
19
FOOTBALL FEVER Qatar has been chosen t o stage The World Cup in 2022, the first Middle Eastern country to do so. SAMBA SISTER Doha is twinned with Brasilia, the capital of Brazil. HOME RULE Qatar has been tuled by the same family – Al Thani – since the 1800s.
of 2009, in recognition of the
museum’s impact since opening.
The building’s exterior alone is
enough to have you reaching for
your camera – the multi-angular
creation was dreamt up by a world-
renowned architect – but the real
gems are inside, where over three
centuries’ worth of Islamic art is
housed. Providing there isn’t an
exhibition on at the time of your
visit, which may charge for viewing,
entrance and guided tours are free.
For adventureGiven its abundance of sand-
swept land and open water there
are adventures aplenty to be
had in Qatar. You can head out
early afternoon to the desert in
a 4x4, racing up and over dunes,
before strapping on a desert-ski
to surf down them instead (visit
gulf-adventures.com for booking
details). Alternatively, you could
take to the seas to either hook
yourself a whopper – the deep
sea fishing here is excellent – or
simply sail across Doha’s West
Bay in a boat, which can behired
from the Regatta Sailing Academy
(regattasailingacademy.com).
For relaxationTake a sunset stroll along Doha’s
lengthy, palm tree-lined Corniche
until you arrive at a cluster of dhow
boats by the Balhambar building.
You can cruise across the bay on
one of these dhows – as always, the
price and length of your journey is
negotiable – before hopping off for
a seaside shisha. If retail therapy is
more your bag, visit the designer
label-driven Villaggio Mall, home to
a great range of stores. Meanwhile,
golfers may wish to follow in
the footsteps of the game’s
biggest names by playing The
Championship Course at the Doha
Golf Club (dohagolfclub.com) –
home of the Qatar Masters.
EAT In Go Greek at InterContinental
Doha’s Mykonos (00 974 484 4444), where you can treat your tastebuds to an antipasti buffet or sample souvlaki, hot from the coals of its open kitchen.
sizzling fajitas, plump tortillas and the heartiest of steaks await diners at Paloma (InterContinental Doha, 00 974 484 4444), a Mexican-themed spot where there’s something to please every palate.
Fancy Friday brunch? Round-up your family and head to The Café Restaurant (00 974 484 4444) at InterContinental Doha, where you can feast upon fresh oysters, juicy lobster tails and glorious desserts.
EAT OUTYou can’t go to Qatar without admiring its landscape and La Villa is one rustic spot where you can do just that. Best sampled at night – along with its simple yet oh-so-tasty Mediterranean cuisine.
Opposite page, left to right: Qatar’s capital, Doha; An Arabian Oryx. This page, top to bottom: Fish Market at InterContinental Doha; Dune bashing in a 4x4; Doha’s splendid corniche.
QATAR
PERFECT DInnERs
IHG My Weekend January.indd 19 12/21/2010 2:11:05 PM
18
For Couples If you’re in town as a couple you’ll
want to experience something
memorable, and in Qatar that
means taking a trip to see a
truly striking natural feature.
Khor el Daid, or The Inland Sea,
is a huge expanse of eerily still
water surrounded by nothing but
gargantuan sand dunes. As such,
it’s a terrific spot to throw down a
blanket for a picnic. Because of its
location there are no roads leading
to The Inland Sea, so your best
bet is to book up a private tour
through one of the many operators
who offer trips there: try Gulf
Adventures (gulf-adventures.com).
For Families If it’s no-holds-barred fun you’re
after there are a couple of
quick and easy options in Doha:
Circusland (00 974 487 6333)
offers rides, games and an activity
zone for toddlers. Across town,
Jungle Zone (00 974 469 4848) is
an indoor theme park with enough
rides to keep the kids at fever pitch
for a few hours. For something
more sedate, how about locking
horns with Qatar’s national animal,
the Arabian Oryx? This bi-horned
creature was once hunted to the
point of extinction, but having
been rescued by international
protection agencies, the Oryx
found favour again in Qatar, which
became the first country to set
up breeding farms to manage
its population. You can arrange
a visit to one of the sanctuaries
where these graceful animals live
by booking through Net Tours
(nettours.com.qa).
For Culture Doha is Qatar’s capital and home
to what’s undoubtedly the most
fascinating and content-rich
museum in Arabia, The Museum
of Islamic Art (mia.org.qa). Its
reputation has reached so far
that the New York Times hailed
Doha as ‘the’ cultural destination
Qatar
There are adventures aplenty to be had in sand-swept Qatar
Immerse yourself in the cultural charms of a country that’s shaken off its sleepy tag to become an internationally acclaimed holiday hotspot...
IHG My Weekend January.indd 18 12/21/2010 2:11:02 PM
19
FOOTBALL FEVER Qatar has been chosen t o stage The World Cup in 2022, the first Middle Eastern country to do so. SAMBA SISTER Doha is twinned with Brasilia, the capital of Brazil. HOME RULE Qatar has been tuled by the same family – Al Thani – since the 1800s.
of 2009, in recognition of the
museum’s impact since opening.
The building’s exterior alone is
enough to have you reaching for
your camera – the multi-angular
creation was dreamt up by a world-
renowned architect – but the real
gems are inside, where over three
centuries’ worth of Islamic art is
housed. Providing there isn’t an
exhibition on at the time of your
visit, which may charge for viewing,
entrance and guided tours are free.
For adventureGiven its abundance of sand-
swept land and open water there
are adventures aplenty to be
had in Qatar. You can head out
early afternoon to the desert in
a 4x4, racing up and over dunes,
before strapping on a desert-ski
to surf down them instead (visit
gulf-adventures.com for booking
details). Alternatively, you could
take to the seas to either hook
yourself a whopper – the deep
sea fishing here is excellent – or
simply sail across Doha’s West
Bay in a boat, which can behired
from the Regatta Sailing Academy
(regattasailingacademy.com).
For relaxationTake a sunset stroll along Doha’s
lengthy, palm tree-lined Corniche
until you arrive at a cluster of dhow
boats by the Balhambar building.
You can cruise across the bay on
one of these dhows – as always, the
price and length of your journey is
negotiable – before hopping off for
a seaside shisha. If retail therapy is
more your bag, visit the designer
label-driven Villaggio Mall, home to
a great range of stores. Meanwhile,
golfers may wish to follow in
the footsteps of the game’s
biggest names by playing The
Championship Course at the Doha
Golf Club (dohagolfclub.com) –
home of the Qatar Masters.
EAT In Go Greek at InterContinental
Doha’s Mykonos (00 974 484 4444), where you can treat your tastebuds to an antipasti buffet or sample souvlaki, hot from the coals of its open kitchen.
sizzling fajitas, plump tortillas and the heartiest of steaks await diners at Paloma (InterContinental Doha, 00 974 484 4444), a Mexican-themed spot where there’s something to please every palate.
Fancy Friday brunch? Round-up your family and head to The Café Restaurant (00 974 484 4444) at InterContinental Doha, where you can feast upon fresh oysters, juicy lobster tails and glorious desserts.
EAT OUTYou can’t go to Qatar without admiring its landscape and La Villa is one rustic spot where you can do just that. Best sampled at night – along with its simple yet oh-so-tasty Mediterranean cuisine.
Opposite page, left to right: Qatar’s capital, Doha; An Arabian Oryx. This page, top to bottom: Fish Market at InterContinental Doha; Dune bashing in a 4x4; Doha’s splendid corniche.
QATAR
PERFECT DInnERs
IHG My Weekend January.indd 19 12/21/2010 2:11:05 PM
21
COOLER CLIMES While it’s thought of as a scorching hot desert, Riyadh in December dips to just 7 degrees celsius and snow can even fall atop its southern mountains. QUITE THE DISH ‘Kasbah’ is the national dish of saudi; a flavoursome rice dish served with lamb, goat or chicken and mixed with tomatoes and pine nuts. UnDER THE SEAJeddah’s amazing diving sites on the Red sea offer spectacular visibility of 30 to 40 metres.
Museum, a huge and fascinating
attraction where you can find
out about prehistoric man in the
Arabian Peninsula, ancient Arab
kingdoms and civilisations, the
pre-Islamic era and Islamic history.
There are also halls devoted to
more recent history, including the
story of the discovery of oil – it’s
a fascinating place to take a crash
course in the region’s history.
For adventureIf you love water sports you’ll
adore Jeddah. This is the place
for sailing, fishing, jet-skiing and
more in the lovely warm waters
of the Red Sea. Diving is also
particularly popular here, thanks
to the unpolluted waters and the
extraordinary coral and exotic
fish. For an adventurous trip out of
town, you must organise a visit to
Madain Saleh, an ancient city which
draws comparisons with Petra
in Jordan. Like Petra, it has been
carved into the living rock, and you
can spend a fascinating day there
scrabbling along narrow passes
and uncovering glorious sights
around each corner. The best
thing is that unlike Petra it’s not
overrun with tourists – so you don’t
have to fight for the best photo
opportunities.
For relaxationFor soul-soothing, jaw-dropping
views, head to the viewing
platform at Al Faisaliah Tower in
Riyadh, where you can take in
incredible city-wide vistas. The
InterContinental Riyadh’s nine-hole
grass golf course is a lovely place
to relax and unwind in the tranquil
settings. Meanwhile, out of town,
you can visit Wadi Hadramawt,
a valley lined with beautiful, lush
oases, where you can connect with
the desert and enjoy some 4x4 fun.
EAT In An elegant eatery can be
found on the mezzanine floor of InterContinental Madinah Dar Al Iman: the Rothana Restaurant (00 966 4 820 6666) which serves up delicious Oriental and international cuisine with views of the Prophet’s Mosque.
Get away from it all at Mondo (InterContinental Riyadh, 00 966 1 465 5000), a fusion restaurant nestled among pretty gardens with a poolside view. Its non-alcoholic Chardonnay is a must alongside its giant grilled prawns.
For a memorable evening, saunter along to one of the Al Zahra’s (Crowne Plaza Jeddah, 00 966 2 660 6326) themed food nights. Try ‘saudi night’ on sundays.
EAT OUTRelax at Al Nakheel Restaurant (Al Mukhtar st, Al-Khaledeyyah, 00 966 2 606 6644), where you’ll sample a taste of Jeddah in a traditional open tent by the sea.
Opposite page: The old town in Jeddah. This page, top to bottom: Madain Saleh; Al Faisaliah Tower; Buffet at Al Zahra, Crowne Plaza Jeddah.
PERFECT DInnERs
sAuDI ARABIA
IHG My Weekend January.indd 21 12/21/2010 2:11:09 PM
20
Saudi ArabiaFor Couples Take your better half on a shopping
trip to the Kingdom Centre in
Riyadh (kingdomcentre.com.sa),
where you’ll find Al Mamlaka Mall, a
four-storey retail haven. Work your
way up through the floors, popping
in to the likes of Dolce & Gabbana,
Paul Smith, Moschino, Ralph Lauren
and Salvatore Ferragamo. When
you hit the top floor you’ll have
to go your separate ways – the
entire floor is a dedicated ‘Ladies’
Kingdom’ where the fairer sex can
do some serious shopping at the
huge range of stores, which include
Gucci, Loewe, Mont Blanc and Dior.
In Jeddah you’ll find Tahlia Street,
a boulevard at the heart of the
city that’s filled with big designer
stores including Versace, Prada
and Giorgio Armani.
For FamiliesThe centre of family life in Jeddah
is the sweeping Corniche, which
is filled with activity throughout
the week. It offers glorious views
out over the Red Sea, and a prime
position to check out the majestic
King Fahd’s Fountain, the tallest in
the world, which reaches a height
of over 800 feet – it’s particularly
impressive at night when it’s lit by
multicoloured spotlights. For a fun
family day out in Riyadh there’s the
Riyadh National Zoo, the largest in
the country, where you can check
out exotic animals including
kangaroos, elephants, monkeys,
leopards and crocodiles.
For Culture You can get a real flavour of the
‘old’, pre-oil Saudi Arabia in the
Balad souk in Jeddah, where
haggling is the order of the day and
where eye candy comes in the form
of lovely old buildings fashioned
from coral. In Riyadh there’s Al
Musmak Castle, a highly impressive
19th-century site that’s associated
with the founding of the country.
While you’re in Riyadh, you mustn’t
miss out on a visit to The National
The centre of family life in Jeddah is the sweeping Corniche, which is filled with activity all week long
The Kingdom has a lot to offer to visitors, from ancient cities to hyper-modern malls...
IHG My Weekend January.indd 20 12/21/2010 2:11:07 PM
21
COOLER CLIMES While it’s thought of as a scorching hot desert, Riyadh in December dips to just 7 degrees celsius and snow can even fall atop its southern mountains. QUITE THE DISH ‘Kasbah’ is the national dish of saudi; a flavoursome rice dish served with lamb, goat or chicken and mixed with tomatoes and pine nuts. UnDER THE SEAJeddah’s amazing diving sites on the Red sea offer spectacular visibility of 30 to 40 metres.
Museum, a huge and fascinating
attraction where you can find
out about prehistoric man in the
Arabian Peninsula, ancient Arab
kingdoms and civilisations, the
pre-Islamic era and Islamic history.
There are also halls devoted to
more recent history, including the
story of the discovery of oil – it’s
a fascinating place to take a crash
course in the region’s history.
For adventureIf you love water sports you’ll
adore Jeddah. This is the place
for sailing, fishing, jet-skiing and
more in the lovely warm waters
of the Red Sea. Diving is also
particularly popular here, thanks
to the unpolluted waters and the
extraordinary coral and exotic
fish. For an adventurous trip out of
town, you must organise a visit to
Madain Saleh, an ancient city which
draws comparisons with Petra
in Jordan. Like Petra, it has been
carved into the living rock, and you
can spend a fascinating day there
scrabbling along narrow passes
and uncovering glorious sights
around each corner. The best
thing is that unlike Petra it’s not
overrun with tourists – so you don’t
have to fight for the best photo
opportunities.
For relaxationFor soul-soothing, jaw-dropping
views, head to the viewing
platform at Al Faisaliah Tower in
Riyadh, where you can take in
incredible city-wide vistas. The
InterContinental Riyadh’s nine-hole
grass golf course is a lovely place
to relax and unwind in the tranquil
settings. Meanwhile, out of town,
you can visit Wadi Hadramawt,
a valley lined with beautiful, lush
oases, where you can connect with
the desert and enjoy some 4x4 fun.
EAT In An elegant eatery can be
found on the mezzanine floor of InterContinental Madinah Dar Al Iman: the Rothana Restaurant (00 966 4 820 6666) which serves up delicious Oriental and international cuisine with views of the Prophet’s Mosque.
Get away from it all at Mondo (InterContinental Riyadh, 00 966 1 465 5000), a fusion restaurant nestled among pretty gardens with a poolside view. Its non-alcoholic Chardonnay is a must alongside its giant grilled prawns.
For a memorable evening, saunter along to one of the Al Zahra’s (Crowne Plaza Jeddah, 00 966 2 660 6326) themed food nights. Try ‘saudi night’ on sundays.
EAT OUTRelax at Al Nakheel Restaurant (Al Mukhtar st, Al-Khaledeyyah, 00 966 2 606 6644), where you’ll sample a taste of Jeddah in a traditional open tent by the sea.
Opposite page: The old town in Jeddah. This page, top to bottom: Madain Saleh; Al Faisaliah Tower; Buffet at Al Zahra, Crowne Plaza Jeddah.
PERFECT DInnERs
sAuDI ARABIA
IHG My Weekend January.indd 21 12/21/2010 2:11:09 PM
23
SEVEn UP The uAE is made-up of seven emirates, each ruled by their own sheikh. EX PAT FACT The uAE has a diverse population, with only 20% being made-up of local Emiratis. SnOW JOKE Despite its hot climate, Dubai is home to the third biggest ski slope in the world – it contains 6,000 tonnes of snow – which can be found in Mall of the Emirates.
In Dubai, have a wander around
the galleries in the Bastakiya area,
then hop in a taxi to Dubai Heritage
Village, where people demonstrate
Emirati artistic traditions. Sharjah
is great for museums – the
Science, Calligraphy, Natural
History, Maritime and Heritage
Museums are all good, as are the
aquarium and Discovery Centre
(sharjahmuseums.ae).
For adventureFor some active fun, head to
Fujairah and go canyoning in
Wadi Wurrayah. You can either
do this yourself or, perhaps more
advisedly, hire a guide to show
you the best routes around (try
adventure.ae). Water levels in the
wadi will vary depending on the
time of year but if there has been
recent rainfall, you will wade waist-
deep through pools, scramble up
steep rocky ridges and observe
indigenous wildlife. If you’ve still
got energy at the end, stop in
Fujairah and do some snorkelling
off Snoopy Rock.
For relaxationA fantastic way to get back to
nature and forget life’s stresses
and strains is to explore Abu
Dhabi’s natural side from the
perspective of a kayak. The land
surrounding the UAE capital is
riddled with mangroves which play
host to crabs, fish and birds, and
Noukhada Adventure Company
(noukhada.ae) will take you out on
a guided tour as well as loaning
fishing equipment if you want to
land some dinner. Land lubbers
may be better served by a round
of golf at Al Badia Golf Club at the
InterContinental Dubai Festival
City (albadiagolfclub.ae).
EAT In A little piece of Paris exists in
InterContinental Dubai Festival City; just head to the quaintest of French eateries, Bistro Madeleine (00 971 4 701 1111).
Live teppanyaki tables, a jam-packed sushi bar and two tatami rooms, make Sakura (Crowne Plaza Dubai, 00 971 4 331 1111) a not-to-be-missed experience for fans of Japanese food.
If you’re craving British food, get your fix at Stills in Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island (00 971 2 656 3000). This cool brasserie serves up gastro-lounge style dishes galore against a suitably stylish backdrop.
EAT OUTThe famous Burj Khalifa and stop-and-stare Dubai Fountains can both be seen from the terrace at Thai sensation The Mango Tree (souk Al Bahar, 00 971 4 426 7313). Don’t even try to resist its mouth-watering curries.
PERFECT DInnERs
ThE uAE
Opposite page, left to right: Golf at Al Badia; A balloon high over the desert. This page, clockwise from left to right: Ski Dubai; Snorkelling in Fujeirah; Wild Wadi.
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22
For Couples There is plenty for couples to do
in the UAE: two great options are
hot air ballooning in the desert
and a sunset boat trip. If you
opt for the former, you will be
collected from your city base by
Balloon Adventures (ballooning.
ae) and taken into the desert
first thing in the morning, before
sunrise. As you rise into the air
the astounding beauty of the
surroundings will take your breath
away as camels and gazelles roam
the terracotta dunes, broken only
by the odd oasis. Water babies
will be happier surveying the city
from the luxury of a yacht: there
are plenty of operators but we can
recommend Dusail (dusail.com),
a husband-and-wife venture with
just a few immaculate boats. They
set off from Dubai Marina and take
passengers on a tour around the
Palm Jumeirah. But to really take
your breath away, head to the top
of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest
tower (burjkhalifa.ae).
For FamiliesAs well as the myriad beaches on
the tranquil coastline, there are two
fantastic water parks in the region.
Aquaventure is best for adrenaline
junkies, with a near-vertical slide
which plunges through a shark-
infested lagoon, while Wild Wadi
offers plenty for tots and teens.
If snow’s more your bag, take
the gang to Ski Dubai (skidxb.
com), which boasts the world’s
first indoor black run as well as
tobogganing. For something a lot
more tranquil, take a trip to Khalifa
Park in Abu Dhabi, where there’s an
abundance of fantastic amenities
and lush green spaces to revel in.
For CultureIgnore those who say that the
UAE is devoid of culture – there’s
plenty, you’ve just got to know
where to look. Abu Dhabi is awash
with cultural charms, not least the
Cultural Foundation (visit adach.
ae) which hosts some wonderful
exhibitions as well as staging
plays and musical performances.
To really take your breath away, head to the top of the Burj Khalifa
There’s a reason this country’s such a sought-after holiday spot: here are some of its biggest attractions...
The UAE
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23
SEVEn UP The uAE is made-up of seven emirates, each ruled by their own sheikh. EX PAT FACT The uAE has a diverse population, with only 20% being made-up of local Emiratis. SnOW JOKE Despite its hot climate, Dubai is home to the third biggest ski slope in the world – it contains 6,000 tonnes of snow – which can be found in Mall of the Emirates.
In Dubai, have a wander around
the galleries in the Bastakiya area,
then hop in a taxi to Dubai Heritage
Village, where people demonstrate
Emirati artistic traditions. Sharjah
is great for museums – the
Science, Calligraphy, Natural
History, Maritime and Heritage
Museums are all good, as are the
aquarium and Discovery Centre
(sharjahmuseums.ae).
For adventureFor some active fun, head to
Fujairah and go canyoning in
Wadi Wurrayah. You can either
do this yourself or, perhaps more
advisedly, hire a guide to show
you the best routes around (try
adventure.ae). Water levels in the
wadi will vary depending on the
time of year but if there has been
recent rainfall, you will wade waist-
deep through pools, scramble up
steep rocky ridges and observe
indigenous wildlife. If you’ve still
got energy at the end, stop in
Fujairah and do some snorkelling
off Snoopy Rock.
For relaxationA fantastic way to get back to
nature and forget life’s stresses
and strains is to explore Abu
Dhabi’s natural side from the
perspective of a kayak. The land
surrounding the UAE capital is
riddled with mangroves which play
host to crabs, fish and birds, and
Noukhada Adventure Company
(noukhada.ae) will take you out on
a guided tour as well as loaning
fishing equipment if you want to
land some dinner. Land lubbers
may be better served by a round
of golf at Al Badia Golf Club at the
InterContinental Dubai Festival
City (albadiagolfclub.ae).
EAT In A little piece of Paris exists in
InterContinental Dubai Festival City; just head to the quaintest of French eateries, Bistro Madeleine (00 971 4 701 1111).
Live teppanyaki tables, a jam-packed sushi bar and two tatami rooms, make Sakura (Crowne Plaza Dubai, 00 971 4 331 1111) a not-to-be-missed experience for fans of Japanese food.
If you’re craving British food, get your fix at Stills in Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island (00 971 2 656 3000). This cool brasserie serves up gastro-lounge style dishes galore against a suitably stylish backdrop.
EAT OUTThe famous Burj Khalifa and stop-and-stare Dubai Fountains can both be seen from the terrace at Thai sensation The Mango Tree (souk Al Bahar, 00 971 4 426 7313). Don’t even try to resist its mouth-watering curries.
PERFECT DInnERs
ThE uAE
Opposite page, left to right: Golf at Al Badia; A balloon high over the desert. This page, clockwise from left to right: Ski Dubai; Snorkelling in Fujeirah; Wild Wadi.
IHG My Weekend January.indd 23 12/21/2010 2:11:40 PM
A B U D H A B I Y A S I S L A N D
crowneplaza.com
Getaway for the weekendStay at one of the UAE’s most exciting destinations
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island is set along Yas Links Abu Dhabi and is just a five minute walk from the exciting Yas Marina Circuit and the new Ferrari World Abu Dhabi theme park.
Combining this with our stylish rooms and suites, superb fitness and kids club facilities and our delicious variety of dining options overlooking the turquoise Arabian Gulf, we have the perfect ingredients on offer for a memorable weekend getaway.
For bookings and more information, contact us on +971 (0)2 656 3030 email [email protected] or visit www.crowneplaza.com/abudhabi
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Bahrain (80000 880) Crowne Plaza Bahrain
egypt (0800 44 333 220) InterContinental Abu Soma Resort
InterContinental Cairo Citystars
InterContinental The Palace Port
Ghalib Resort
InterContinental Taba Heights Resort
Semiramis InterContinental Cairo
Crowne Plaza Sahara Sands Port
Ghalib Resort
Crowne Plaza Sahara Oasis Port
Ghalib Resort
Holiday Inn Citystars Cairo
Jordan (0800 22 666) InterContinental Aqaba Resort
InterContinental Jordan
Crowne Plaza Resort Petra
Crowne Plaza Amman
Holiday Inn Amman
Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea, Jordan
Kenya (0800 999 136)
InterContinental Nairobi
KuWait (2473 2100 ext. 6233)Crowne Plaza Kuwait
Holiday Inn Downtown Kuwait
Holiday Inn Kuwait
leBanon (01) 426 801 asK at&t operator to ConneCt (866 866 7556)
Le Vendòme InterContinental Beirut
InterContinental Mzaar Lebanon
Mountain Resort & Spa
Phoenicia InterContinental Beirut
Crowne Plaza Beirut
Holiday Inn - Dunes
mauritius (0800 999 136)InterContinental Mauritius Resort
Balacalava Fort
oman (0800 97 1234)
InterContinental Muscat
Crowne Plaza Muscat
Crowne Plaza Sohar
Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah
Qatar (00800 97 1234)InterContinental Doha
saudi araBia (800 89 71 456)Al Ahsa InterContinental
Dar Al Hijra
InterContinental Madinah
Dar Al Iman
InterContinental Madinah
InterContinental Al Jubail
InterContinental Al Khobar
InterContinental Jeddah
InterContinental Riyadh
InterContinental Taif
Crowne Plaza Jeddah
Holiday Inn Minhal Riyadh
Holiday Inn Najran
Holiday Inn Olaya Riyadh
Holiday Inn Yanbu
Holiday Inn Hafr Al Batin
Holiday Inn Riyadh-Izdihar
Holiday Inn Riyadh Al Qasr
Holiday Inn Al Khobar
Holiday Inn Resort Half Moon Bay
Holiday Inn Jeddah-Al Salam
Holiday Inn Al Khobar - Corniche
uae (800 4642)InterContinental Abu Dhabi
InterContinental Dubai Festival City
Crowne Plaza Dubai
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi
Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island
Holiday Inn Dubai Al Barsha
Holiday Inn Downtown Dubai
Holiday Inn Sharjah
Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi
Holiday Inn Express Dubai
Internet City
Holiday Inn Express Dubai Safa Park
Holiday Inn Express Dubai-Jumeirah
ZamBia (0800 999 136) InterContinental Lusaka
Choose your hotel...
IHG My Weekend January.indd 24 12/21/2010 2:11:47 PM
A B U D H A B I Y A S I S L A N D
crowneplaza.com
Getaway for the weekendStay at one of the UAE’s most exciting destinations
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island is set along Yas Links Abu Dhabi and is just a five minute walk from the exciting Yas Marina Circuit and the new Ferrari World Abu Dhabi theme park.
Combining this with our stylish rooms and suites, superb fitness and kids club facilities and our delicious variety of dining options overlooking the turquoise Arabian Gulf, we have the perfect ingredients on offer for a memorable weekend getaway.
For bookings and more information, contact us on +971 (0)2 656 3030 email [email protected] or visit www.crowneplaza.com/abudhabi
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For further information or reservations call: +971 2 6666 888 email: [email protected]
AFTER 30 YEARS AT THE HEART OF ABU DHABI, WE HAVE A NOSEFOR LOCAL ATTRACTIONS.
Over the last 30 years, InterContinental Abu Dhabi has been at the very heartof life in the capital. From casual visitors to heads of government, we havewelcomed guests from all over the world. So, we understand that people wantmuch more than room and board. They want experiences that enrich andreward. That’s why we offer a range of insider packages designed to connectour guests to the real Abu Dhabi and create lasting memories.
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