World Traveller November 2019

INSPIRED BY 

ISSUE 139 | NOVEMBER 2019 | COMPLIMENTARY COPY 

GEORGIA 

BRAZIL 

STAYCATIONS 

TRAVEL OFFERS 

Produced in Dubai Production City 

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Welcome note 

Holidays are a coveted chance to refresh body and mind, and 

there's no better way to feel a sense of relaxation wash over 

you than by diving into a sparkling swimming pool. Our cover 

story on the world's best swims (p24) will point you in th 

Managing Director 

Victoria Thatcher 

Chief Creative Officer 

John Thatcher 

General Manager 

David Wade 

Managing Editor 

Faye Bartle 

faye@hotmedia.me 

Content Writers 

Habiba Azab 

habiba@hotmedia.me 

Sophia Dyer 

Editorial Assistant 

Ronak Sagar 

Art Director 

Kerri Bennett 

right direction, with it's round-up of scenic 

places to take the plunge. From the salty allure of 

Jordan's Dead Sea to the rugged beauty of the 

Lake District and glamorous rooftop pools to dip a 

toe in... all you need is your best swimwear. 

Also in this issue, we take you glamping in 

Georgia (p36) and on a journey through vibrant 

Bahia in Brazil (p42). If Venice is on your bucketlist, 

why not resolve to squeeze in a long weekend 

there before the end of the year? Our guide to 

ticking off all those major sites, as well as seeking 

out some of the lesser-known gems (p48), 

provides all the know-how you need to make your 

trip a great one. 

Last but not least, this issue is jam-packed with 

staycation ideas (from p60), giving you plenty of 

reasons to make the most of the glorious weekend 

weather we're experiencing at the moment. 

Happy travels, 

Faye Bartle 

Win! 

A two-night stay 

for two at JA The 

Resort in sunny 

Dubai, p79 

FIVE THINGS 

WE LEARNED 

THIS ISSUE: 

1 

Snacking on a banana 

may help to ease jet lag, 

due to its high levels of 

potassium, p20 

2 

You can find the distinct 

coco de mer coconut 

at only two of the 115 

Seychellean islands: 

Praslin and Curieuse, p56 

3 

In the next few years, 

the Transcaucasian Trail, 

a long-distance hiking 

route being developed 

in the Caucasus, will 

link Svaneti to Ghebi, 

bringing more hikers to 

the stunning area, p36 

4 

The reef-fringed island of 

Boipeba in Bahia, Brazil, 

is a hidden gem that 

seemingly packs more 

free-roaming wild horses 

than humans, p42 

Senior Designer 

Hiral Kapadia 

Senior Advertising Manager 

Mia Cachero 

mia@hotmedia.me 

Production Manager 

Muthu Kumar 

INSPIRED BY 

Photography credits: 

Getty Images and Phocal Media 

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without written permission from 

HOT Media is strictly prohibited. 

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World Traveller. 

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COVER IMAGE 

The Skypool at Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London 

Find us at… 

ONLINE worldtravellermagazine.com 

FACEBOOK @WorldTravellerME 

INSTAGRAM @worldtravellerme 

TWITTER @WTravellerME 

5 

A cultural showpiece, 

Venetian masks shine 

with their glitzy designs 

and, at Ca'Macana, 

you can craft your own 

bespoke piece, p48 

worldtravellermagazine.com 5

The Garden Route, South Africa 

Contents 

November 2019 

10 

TRENDING DESTINATIONS 

regulars 

10 15 20 78 80 

TRENDING 

DESTINATIONS 

This month's goto 

places include 

vibrant Kathmandu 

and Morocco's little 

Hollywood, Ouarzazate. 

GLOBETROTTER 

Winter sun or snow... 

we've got your next 

holiday covered. Plus, 

the best Sri Lankan 

beach spots at which to 

catch the perfect wave. 

THE KNOWLEDGE 

Sleep expert and 

psychologist Dr. David 

Lewis shares his top 

tips on how to get a 

good night's sleep 

while on holiday. 

DIGITAL DOWNLOAD 

Head online for 

exclusive content and, 

better still, the chance 

to win a two-night 

stay at JA The Resort in 

sunny Dubai. 

SUITE DREAMS 

Soak up the scenic views 

of the snow-capped 

Swiss Alps from the 

comfort of the Corner 

Junior Suite at Carlton 

Hotel St. Moritz. 


CONTENTS 

features 

24 36 

THE WORLD'S 33 GLAMPING IT UP 

BEST SWIMS 

Yvonne Gorden goes 

Stylish skypools, crystal beyond Tbilisi to uncover 

clear lagoons and whitesand 

coves, here's where homestays and upmarket 

a paradise of hiking, 

to plan your next dip. camping in Georgia. 

Constance Ephelia Mahé Seychelles 

42 

BRAZILIAN 

BLOWOUT 

Alex Robinson explores 

a world of street parties, 

white sands and coralsnorkelling 

in Bahia. 

56 

ISLAND LORE 

Mysterious coconuts, 

voodoo dolls and 

otherworldly beaches, 

Sophia Dyer is spellbound 

by the Seychelles. 

56 

SEYCHELLES 

weekends 

48 60 

A LONG WEEKEND STAYCATIONS 

IN VENICE 

Feel in need of a break? 

With a classical beauty We have a few more 

and marvellous tales, reasons to book a 

the Floating City awaits. weekend escape. 

74 

TRAVEL OFFERS 

It's time we sent you 

packing. Choose your 

next adventure from 

our exclusive offers. 

8 worldtravellermagazine.com

Wellness Haven at Saray Spa. 

Renew for the journey ahead. 

A relaxing realm of quiet luxury, Saray Spa at the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is an authentic wellness Spa, 

where ancient healing techniques and locally sourced natural ingredients are combined to enhance the 

well-being of each guest. The Spa features 17 treatment rooms, inclusive of two private Hammam rooms, 

one Dead Sea treatment room boasting the UAE’s only Dead Sea Floatation Pool found within, and two 

Private Luxury Spa Suites. Experience the wonders of the Middle East through Arabian Body Rituals 

or Hammam Rituals, or benefit from the resultsoriented facials. An exclusive retail boutique offers luxurious 

gifts and spa products for every occasion. 

JW Marriott Marquis Dubai | Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE 

T +971 4 414 6754 | mhrs.dxbjw.spa@marriott.com | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com 

*Terms and conditions: Offer is subject to availability and advance reservations are required. This is a limited time offer.


Emily Williams, dnata Travel’s resident globetrotter, 

reveals the best places to hop on a plane to this month 

The Garden Route 

Spring is in full swing at this South African beauty spot, with its blooming wildflowers painting the landscape in 

vivid colours. Embark on a road trip to explore this scenic region and marvel at the incredible beaches, mountains, 

forests and lakes that line its winding roads. You won't have a minute to spare with all the wildlife thrills on offer, 

including whale watching at Plettenberg Bay, scuba diving, and caving adventures (the Cango Caves are a must-see). 

Highlights 1 Get a bird's eye view of the Kaaimans River winding its way through the countryside at the 

Map of Africa viewpoint at Wilderness Heights. 2 Grab your binoculars and head to Bontebok National Park, 

which is credited with bringing the native bontebok antelope back from the brink of extinction. 3 Take the canopy tour at Tsitsikamma, and 

zipline past the giant trees this nature spot protects. 



Ouarzazate 

Known as the 'Hollywood of Morocco', the city of Ouarzazate is home to Ait Ben Haddou fortified village, a UNESCO 

World Heritage Site, which has served as a filming location for hit movies and telelvision shows, including Gladiator 

and Game of Thrones. At the edge of the city, you'll find Taourirt Kasbah, a stunning 19 th century palace. Follow the 

maze of stairwells to the top and watch the sun set against the backdrop of Morocco’s desert landscape. 

Highlights 1 Meet berber people at Tassoumaat Old District Medina. The cosy neighbourhood promises an authentic local 

experience. 2 Watch skilled female artisans work on hanbel carpets and embroidered straw mats at Coopérative de Tissage. 

3 Movie buffs can continue the quest for behind the scenes insight by visiting Atlas Film Studios, which is home to lots of old movie 

sets and is where scenes for silver screen successes including Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy and The Living Daylights were shot. 


Ras Al Khaimah 

As the temperature drops across the UAE, this northernmost emirate calls intrepid travellers with its wide 

expanse of white-sand beaches, fascinating wildlife and majestic mountaintops. Make Jebel Jais, the country's 

highest peak, the jumping-off spot for your adventure. Whether it's shooting down the world's longest zip line, 

setting off on a challenging hike, or basking in the tranquil desert, it's a thrill-a-minute kind of place. 

Highlights 1 Amateur detectives will view the town of Al Jazirat Al Hamra as a mystery worth solving, 

with its abandoned buildings and ghostly tales. 2 Take a dip in the mineral-rich hot pools of Khatt springs and let 

the sulphurous waters envelop you. 3 Pay a visit to the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, which proudly 

exhibits a collection of historical, ethnographical and archaeological treasures. 



Kathmandu 

The gateway to Mount Everest, Nepal's capital is garnering worldwide attention for its vibrant culture, delicious 

food and warm hospitality. Explore the historic city and admire the Newari architecture before boarding a plane 

and setting off on a scenic flight across the mountains. It's a brilliant way to see the world's tallest peak in all its 

majesty, without having to attempt the difficult feat of climbing it. 

Highlights 1 Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and unwind amid lush foliage at the neo classical 

Garden of Dreams. 2 Huff and puff your way up the Swayambhunath Monkey Temple (it's more than 365 steps), 

which is home to hundreds of monkeys considered holy to Tibetan Buddhists. 3 Trawl Thamel market for keepsakes, such as singing bowls 

and luxurious pashminas. 


JOURNEY INTO THE SPIRIT OF ARABIA. 

Relax and unwind as you breathe in the mystical charm of the Rub’ Al Khali. 

Discover unparalleled desert luxury and cultural passion just 90 minutes 

from Abu Dhabi. Trek the footsteps of the Bedouin and create a thousand 

timeless moments in a luxury desert oasis. 

To book your stay, call +971 (0) 2 895 8700 or 

email crome@anantara.com 

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com 

CAMBODIA • CHINA • INDONESIA • MALDIVES • MOZAMBIQUE • OMAN • PORTUGAL • QATAR • SRI LANKA • THAILAND • UNITED ARAB EMIRATES • VIETNAM • ZAMBIA

NOVEMBER 

Globetrotter 

XXXXXXXXXXXXX 

Be informed, be inspired, be there 

A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS 

Follow in the footsteps of Hollywood 

stars, including Greta Garbo, by 

descending on the glamorous Eden 

Rock – St. Barths, which is re-opening 

its doors this month (on 20 November) 

following a two-year renovation. The 

Caribbean bolthole, which was founded 

by adventurer Rémy de Haenen and 

has been welcoming guests since the 

1950s, has a fresh new look, with notable 

additions such as the stylish Rémy Bar. 

Live it up inside the Villa Rockstar, a 

sprawling beach house that wows with its 

ultra luxurious touches. 


GLOBETROTTER 

WILD TIMES 

Be at one with nature and get 

an up-close view of wildlife at 

these luxury resorts 

WALK WITH GORILLAS 

Hike your way through the 

misty bamboo forest of 

Volcanoes National Park and 

track endangered mountain 

gorillas while on the Virunga 

experience offered by the 

new One&Only Gorilla's Nest 

in Rwanda. Seeing these 

captivating animals in their 

natural habitat is one to tick 

off the bucket list. 

WAKE UP IN A ZOO 

At Taronga Zoo's newlyopened 

Wildlife Retreat 

you can rise and shine to 

the sight of koalas dangling 

outside your window and red 

kangaroos hopping past. This 

eco-retreat, which overlooks 

Sydney Harbour, aims to 

educate while delivering a 

touch of luxury. 

One &Only Gorilla's Nest 

TAKE A WILD DRIVE 

Embark on a wildlife drive at 

Desert Islands Resort & Spa 

by Anantara, off the coast 

of Abu Dhabi, and you'll be 

rewarded by the sight of freeroaming 

animals, including 

the protected Arabian oryx. 

ON OUR RADAR 

Game of Thrones fans 

may recognise Malta's 

Fort Manoel as the starshaped 

mediaeval fort at 

which Ned Stark met his 

demise. Restored to its 

original glory, it is now 

open to the pubic. Go 

discover its deep-seated 

history and marvel at its 

stunning architecture. 

Team an exotic beach 

break with earning your 

eco stripes at Six Senses Zil 

Pasyon in the Seychelles. 

The luxury resort has 

a coral restoration 

programme, which offers 

a coveted chance to 

help repair the marine 

ecosystems of Félicité and 

learn more about the reef. 

If you admire the beauty 

of Holland's vibrant tulip 

fields, then why not help 

to plant them? The Tulip 

Planting package (until 

6 Dec) at Amsterdam's 

Conservatorium Hotel is a 

great way to swot up on the 

history of the region while 

helping farmers prepare for 

the upcoming season. 

Form meets function in 

new Hawke collection 

of bags for adventure 

seekers by Bally. 

Whether it's a backpack, 

messenger bag or 

crossbody pouch you're 

after, each piece is 

tailored to meet your 

travel needs. bally.com 


GLOBETROTTER 

THIS MONTH'S 

NEW HOTELS 

Pack your bags, 

and set off on an 

adventure 

A TROPICAL ESCAPE 

FCC Angkor, Siem Reap 

With hints of Frenchtropical 

architecture, this 

nature-inspired resort is 

born from an extensive 

renovation of one of the 

area's most treasured 

colonial sites: the former 

mansion of the French 

colonial governor and the 

Foreign Correspondent’s 

Club. Home to 80 rooms 

and suites, the property is 

steps away from the Royal 

Independence Gardens 

and Royal Residence. 

FEELS LIKE HOME 

Rocco Forte House, Piazza 

di Spagna, Rome 

Those seeking total privacy 

will find all the seclusion 

they need at this historic 

18 th century palazzo. Just 

five lavish suites await, 

with a dedicated house 

manager on hand to tend 

to your every whim. Head 

to the cosy rooftop terrace 

to admire the views of the 

famous Spanish Steps. 

FCC Angkor 

NATURAL WONDERLAND 

The Oberoi, Marrakech 

Natural beauty abounds 

at this picturesque resort 

(opening on 1 December), 

which is surrounded by 

28 acres of landscaped 

gardens complete with 

citrus orchards, olive groves 

and views of the snowcapped 

Atlas Mountains. It's 

just 25-minutes away from 

Djema el-Fna square and 

the ancient walled city. 


GLOBETROTTER 

SUN VS. SNOW 

Whether you want to soak up the 

rays or ski down the slopes this 

winter, we've got you covered 

Silversands Grenada 

THE CARIBBEAN 

SILVERSANDS GRENADA 

Island life beckons at this exclusive 

hideaway, which encourages you to 

make the most of the glorious winter 

weather with its thrilling line-up of 

adventurous pursuits, from hiking to 

watersports. Explore the lush jungle, 

white sand beaches and shimmering 

waters and bask in the inimitable 

Caribbean glow. You'll find us lazing 

around the infinity pool. 

ICELAND 

DEPLAR FARM 

The expanse of snow-dusted 

mountains that surround this chic 

lodge deliver the most exhilarating 

skiing and snowboarding adventures. 

But the fun doesn't end there, as 

sea kayaking and whale watching 

in the fjords are just some of the 

other activities on offer at this luxury 

abode located deep in the Icelandic 

wilderness. After a day of fast-paced 

action, unwind in the geothermally 

heated outdoor pool and wait for the 

elusive Northern Lights to dance their 

way across the sky. 

Deplar Farm 

Will travel for food. A delicious excuse for 

a break, Chef Mauro Colagreco (of three- 

Michelin-starred Mirazur fame) has teamed up 

with One&Only Royal Mirage in Dubai to bring 

his culinary flair to two dining venues there. 


GLOBETROTTER 

Mirissa Beach 

SURF'S UP 

It's surfing season in Sri Lanka. Here's where to catch a wave... 

1MIRISSA BEACH 

Matara 

South of Weligama, this 

hidden gem is one of Sri 

Lanka's best kept secrets. Lush 

palm trees enhance the scenic 

landscape as you work your 

way to perfecting that reef 

break. If you're lucky, you may 

even spot a migrating blue 

whale or get to play with a pod 

of friendly dolphins. 

2HIKKADUWA BEACH 

Galle 

Consistent waves makes 

this idyllic spot a must-do 

for surfers of all skill levels. 

Beginners will appreciate the 

way waves form and peel away 

smoothly towards the shore. 

Come prepared though, as the 

local Hikkaduwa surfers have 

a flair for competition – get set 

to see some moves. 

3UNAWATUNA BEACH 

Galle 

Turn a day of surfing 

fun into a family affair at this 

kid-friendly beach. Ride the 

waves with your little ones 

in tow as they splash away 

in the water. Want to know 

where the good swells are? 

Simply ask the locals. They're 

always very happy to point 

out the perfect spots. 


KNOW-HOW 

The Knowledge 

HOW TO... 

Sleep well while you’re on holiday 

It may be the last thing on your mind while you're on an exciting holiday, but 

getting a good night’s slumber will help you enjoy your break to the max 

A whopping 80% of travellers struggle 

to sleep when staying away from 

home, says recent research*. Settling 

into a new environment and hearing 

unfamiliar noises are among the top 

sleep saboteurs that can leave you 

tossing and turning in the early hours, 

but feeling far from rested may mean 

your holiday experience falls flat. We 

picked the brains of Dr David Lewis, a 

sleep expert, chartered psychologist 

and CEO of Mindlab International, for 

his top tips on getting the shut eye you 

need to seize the day… 

GET IN THE TIMEZONE 

“When travelling across time zones, 

especially with children, set your watch 

to the local time in the area you are 

visiting the moment your flight takes 

off,” says Dr Lewis. It’ll help you to 

adjust more easily on the other side. 

Plus, flying can take a toll on 

the mind but not the body, so be sure 

to get some light exercise – even a 

10-minute stroll in the fresh air once 

you touch down can work wonders. 

PERSONALISE YOUR ROOM 

“If you have difficulty dropping off 

when you’re away from home, bring a 

couple of personal possessions with you 

on your travels, such as photos of your 

loved ones [if you’re travelling solo], a 

lucky charm or, for children, a favourite 

doll or teddy bear,” says Dr Lewis. 

“Placing them on the bedside table and 

looking at them before you turn off the 

light will help you settle into a more 

comfortable and familiar mindset.” 

KEEP UP YOUR GOOD HABITS 

“Make sure the bed is warm, but 

the room is cool and well aired,” he 

suggests. “Also keep the room as dark 

as possible, as even a small amount of 

light, such as the LED on a TV or radio, 

can make it harder to sleep.” As you 

may already do at home, avoid caffeine 

and screen time three hours prior to 

bedtime, and try to stick to your usual 

routine as much as possible in order to 

trigger the body and mind to prepare 

for sleep. 

EAT SLUMBER-INDUCING FOODS 

“Dehydration is common among 

travellers, even on short haul trips, so 

make sure you stay well hydrated,” says 

Dr Lewis. “The ideal bedtime tipple is 

a warm milky drink. Milk contains the 

sleep-inducing substance tryptophan 

and warming it up releases milk sugars 

that feed the body during sleep.” 

If you need a snack, reach for a 

banana. “It also contains tryptophan 

and has a high potassium content that 

helps prevent nighttime cramps while 

also fighting jet-lag.” 

STILL THE MIND 

“If you have something on your mind, 

try writing it down,” he says. “This 

will help prevent distracting thoughts 

racing around your mind the moment 

your head touches the pillow. A warm, 

relaxing bath is a better way to end the 

day than a shower which tends to make 

you feel more wide-awake.” Reading 

a few pages of a good book has been 

proven to help unwind the mind. 

DRIFT OFF TO 

YOUR FAVOURITE SCENT 

“The brain is extremely sensitive to 

unfamiliar smells and aromas, and while 

these may be hard to avoid, they can 

often be masked by bringing along 

your own favourite essential oil and 

sprinkling it on the pillow,” says Dr 

Lewis. “The six most effective oils for 

this purpose are: clary sage, lavender, 

roman chamomile, sweet marjoram 

and valerian**.” 

Dr. David Lewis has teamed up with 

Sheraton Grand London Park Lane and 

Hatchards, the oldest bookseller in 

London, to curate an exclusive library 

of books to read before bedtime to 

help guests get a good night’s sleep. 

*By InterContinental Hotel Group. **Consult your 

doctor before using aromatherapy oils. 


WORLD TRAVELLER XXXXXXXXXXXXXX SCTDA 

WHERE LUXURY RULES 

Arabian heritage meets bespoke luxury at Sharjah’s most coveted staycation spots 

Rich in art and cultural attractions, 

and with stunning natural 

landscapes to discover, Sharjah’s 

unique blend of modern marvels and 

old-world charm is a magnet for intrepid 

travellers. Today, the emirate is firmly on 

the radar as a leading destination for a 

staycation. Here are three of the best luxury 

hotels to escape to… 

THE STYLISH ABODE 

Feel right at home and bask in true Arabian 

hospitality at Al Bait Sharjah. Located at 

the heart of Sharjah, the 53-room boutique 

resort is a unique collection of five preserved 

heritage houses that were once owned by 

esteemed Emirati families. It’s also home to 

impressive architectural sights, including the 

UAE’s only round wind tower, as well as an 

in-house museum that showcases the city’s 

rich history. Retreat to the spa for a soothing 

massage, cool off in the outdoor swimming 

pool, or sit down at the Arabic restaurant for a 

true taste of Arabia as trained chefs cook up a 

delicious spread of local delicacies. 

THE BOUTIQUE BOLTHOLE 

Looking at this stunning rustic retreat, you 

wouldn’t guess it was once (in the 1960s) a 

simple grocery store and café. Boasting a 

fresh new look, Al Faya Lodge & Spa now sits 

on the crimson sands of Mount Alvaah as 

the latest addition to the Sharjah Collection, 

a group of boutique hotels scattered across 

the emirate. Whether it's lounging by the 

open-air saltwater pool, indulging in an 

Arabian style spa retreat or marvelling at the 

thousands of stars from the rooftop terrace, 

the lodge is the perfect escape from the hustle 

and bustle of everyday life. 

THE EXCLUSIVE ECO RETREAT 

Immerse yourself in the stunning 

natural wonders the emirate has to offer at 

Sharjah’s new five-star eco-tourism resort, 

Kalba Kingfisher Lodge. Offering comfort 

and privacy in spades, the boutique hotel 

is set against an unspoiled backdrop of 

the Indian Ocean and a forest of mangrove 

(Qurm) trees, which is home to a number 

of fascinatingly beautiful kingfishers and 

other rare bird species. Wake up to the 

sound of crashing waves from any of the 25 

luxuriously appointed tents, each with its 

own swimming pool, and lap up the views. 

Find out more at visitsharjah.com 

Photo: Kalba Kingfisher Lodge 


Nature's bounty 

The island of Sir Bani Yas is brimming with history, nature and wildlife. Add 

a splash of luxury, and you’ve got the perfect Abu Dhabi island getaway 


WORLD TRAVELLER X DESERT ISLANDS RESORT & SPA BY ANANTARA 

Tucked away inside the nature reserve of Sir 

Bani Yas island, Desert Islands Resort & 

Spa by Anantara lures the most discerning 

travellers with its rugged beauty, thriving wildlife 

and Emirati-style splendour. 

Just a two-hour drive from Abu Dhabi, this 

family-oriented retreat is part of the three luxurious 

Anantara resorts that grace Sir Bani Yas island – the 

others being the tranquil beach getaway of Anantara 

Al Yamm Villa Resort, and the Arabian adventure 

inspired Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort. 

Sink into plush bedding that envelops you in soft 

Egyptian cotton, wake up to stunning sea views, 

and cool off under the stylish rain showers. Floorto-ceiling 

glass doors allow natural light to cast your 

room in a soft glow and open up to a private balcony, 

where you can spend the day lounging with a good 

book. The Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara 

recently introduced its all-inclusive discovery 

package, which invites guests to unwind in one of 

the opulent rooms, suites or villas. Meals and drinks 

are included, as well as your choice of one activity per 

night stayed. 

For a delectable meal, Amwaj restaurant draws 

upon the island’s sea riches to create scrumptious 

seafood dishes that will make your taste buds 

tingle. Here, you’ll enjoy the flavours of the ocean 

in more ways than one, with its fresh-out-of-theocean 

plates and stellar setting overlooking the sea. 

Meanwhile, Al Shams Restaurant & Bar serves up 

Arabic favourites straight to your poolside lounger. 

It’s so good you’ll want to take the flavours with you 

back home and with Spice Spoons, you can. The 

step-by-step class offers you a peek into authentic 

Arabian cooking techniques so you can whip up 

local delights in the comfort of your own home. 

When you tire of lazing under the sun, hop in 

one of the safari Jeeps and set off on an exciting 

adventure as you encounter rare, free-roaming and 

exotic wildlife in the island’s reserve, including the 

prized Arabian oryx. 

The Arabian Gulf’s sparkling waters will 

eventually beckon you to discover its stunning reef, 

while the magnetic charm of an Arabian stallion 

promises an unforgettable and liberating gallop 

through the desert’s sandy golden dunes. History 

buffs can also join an archaeological site tour to 

marvel at the uncovered remains of the UAE's only 

discovered Christian monastery. 

Revive yourself with the resort’s signature spa 

treatment; the Desert Islands Retreat. A gentle 

full-body exfoliation with desert sands followed by 

a 90-minute desert fusion massage is the perfect 

ending to this action-packed retreat. 

Stay amid natural beauty 

Dive in and discover 

a world of wonders 

Unwind and enjoy 

the gorgeous vistas 

The all-inclusive discovery package starts from 

Dhs1,999 per night. To find out more, call +971 2 895 

8700 or visit anantara.com 


The world’s 

33 

best swims 

Whether you prefer muscle-pumping laps 

across a rugged lake, or stargazing lazily 

on a city rooftop, we’ve got your swim 

sorted – to infinity pool and beyond! 

Bronte Baths, Sydney 


BEST SWIMS 

Adaaran Select Meedhupparu 

POSTER-PERFECT PLUNGE 

Raa Atoll, the Maldives 

If you’re lucky, you’re the first person 

here. You pad a virgin trail of footprints 

from bungalow to sea, and stretch out 

on the cool sand. Picking up snorkel 

gear, you chat with the hut attendant 

about recent star sightings (‘There’s 

a lionfish about — you might have 

to dive down to see it’), before your 

flippers propel you past the shallows, 

to that crescent of pulsating coral 

you’ve become addicted to. Here, 

20 strokes from the beach and an 

arm’s length from your mask, sea that 

looked a blanket turquoise from your 

seaplane reveals swirls of Day-Glo 

parrotfish, sail-shaped Moorish idols 

and blue tangs. Then, there’s that surly 

lionfish. You watch its striped mohican 

slink down to where the reef drops off 

to an intimidating indigo. Head full of 

ocean colour scenes, you paddle back 

to laze by the pool for an hour at least. 

That reef’s not going anywhere. 

BUCKET-LIST DIP 

The Dead Sea, Jordan 

Cleopatra bathed here, King David hid 

here from Saul, Jesus was baptised 

upriver — even Herod slipped on his 

Speedos for a dip. You’re floating in a 

sea of history, and the amazing thing 

is, despite the corporate hotel chains 

thronging the shores, it still feels 

transcendent. That salt stings, though, 

which is why it’s best to access the 

water via a hotel’s (with its freshwater 

pools and showers for after). Try to keep 

the salt out of any cuts or grazes, and 

don’t shave any part of your body the 

day you plunge! 

SECRET SPLASH 

Pigeon Island, St Lucia 

You didn’t come here to swim, but you’ll 

miss out if you don’t. Pigeon Island is 

a former British military fort, now a 

national park, at St Lucia’s northern tip. 

Stretch your legs on the spiralling hike 

to its hilltop, snapping the obligatory 

photo with the cannons there. You’ll be 

trekking back down just as the sticky 

heat of late morning sets in — so first 

slip down to the curves of sand on its 

south side for a secret swim. There’s 

a public loo to change in, and shade 

from the trees. Kick off your shoes and 

plunge into the Listerine-fresh ocean. 

HOTEL POOL HEAVEN 

Grand Hotel Tremezzo, 

Lake Como 

Outside, you have the glittering expanse 

of Lake Como and a ‘secret’ garden 

pool — all visible from your room. Inside, 

there’s a velvet-red staircase to sweep 

down as you head for dinner in your 

best holiday togs. But, floating in the 

lake, as smugly as George Clooney on 

his hols is this special swim spot. It’ll get 

in the way of your Como sightseeing — 

lizard-still on the hotel’s loungers, drink 

in hand and the gelato-cool pool right 

by you, you’ll watch the tourist ferry 

pass by with no urge to move. 


BEST SWIMS 


The Great Barrier Reef 

Zig-zag clouds of yellow snappers, 

tornadoes of electric-blue fusiliers 

and forests of rainbow staghorn coral: 

diving in the GBR is like swimming in 

a giant psychedelic cocktail. There are 

countless ways to explore this sprawling 

2,300km-long reef, but if you’re serious 

about your sea life, head north to, 

say, the Ribbon Reefs, for the richest 

variety of fish. Accessed by seaplane, 

then a live-aboard boat, it’s not the 

easiest or cheapest spot, but you get 

uncrowded waters and pristine coral for 

your trouble. Huge swathes of the reef 

were bleached by the El Niño weather 

phenomenon, so it’s vital to go with a 

responsible operator that knows where 

to find flourishing regrowth and how 

to prevent further damage. Conditions 

range from mirror-like (ideal for drifting 

alongside Labrador-sized potato cod) to 

choppy and wild, but even novices can 

dive here with a skilled team to guide 

them safely into the depths. 

BUCKET LIST 

Faraglione di Mezzo, Capri 

It was in front of this ancient 

oceanic arch that David Gandy 

smouldered for that Dolce & 

Gabbana advert — and Capri 

boat trips have never had a lull 

in business since. As life is not a 

fragrance ad, it’s choppier than 

you’d think, the deep water chilly 

’til mid summer. So get your 

photo, take a dunk into depths 

as ice-blue as Gandy’s eyes, 

then climb back on board for a 

Prosecco. This swim is all about 

the posing, anyway. 

3POP- 

CULTURE 

POOLS 

THE ESTHER 

WILLIAMS ONE: 

The Raleigh, 

Miami Beach 

Hollywood’s 

‘million- dollar 

mermaid’ filmed 

many of her sleek 

synchronisedswimming 

routines 

in this Art Deco 

pool. Now you 

can stay in her 

namesake suite. 

THE CLUB 

TROPICANA 

ONE: Pikes 

Hotel, Ibiza 

A mega-bronzed 

George Michael 

and Andrew 

Ridgeley cavorted 

by this slim, tiled 

pool for their 

holiday anthem’s 

music video. 

Bring your own 

lilos/trumpets. 

THE FAYE 

DUNAWAY ONE: 

Beverly Hills Hotel, 

Los Angeles 

Terry O’Neill’s 

‘morning 

after’ portrait 

of Dunaway 

reflecting on her 

1977 Oscar win 

made this pool 

synonymous 

with Hollywood 

glamour. 


SECRET SPLASH 

Mexico’s cenotes 

Yucatán’s beaches can get a little 

TOWIE. For a more thrilling swim, 

drive 90 minutes inland to paddle 

under Gaudíesque rock formations 

and leap from vines into the 

fresh, teal water of the cenotes. 

The peninsula is punctured with 

thousands of these prehistoric 

limestone sinkholes, overgrown with 

tropical jungle and open year-round. 

Some, such as Dos Ojos, are cool, 

vaguely claustrophobic caverns; 

while others, like Escondido, are 

splashed with sunlight. It’s like 

swimming in a tropical luxury spa 

— clean, quiet, almost baptismal. 

Sunscreen is verboten, unless it’s 

biodegradable. With hardly another 

body bobbing around, you’d think 

tourists were, too. 


3WILDLIFE 

SWIMS 

SWIM WITH 

DOLPHINS 

IN PUERTO 

VALLARTA, 

MEXICO 

Invest in an 

underwater camera 

or case: seeing a 

pod of these wild 

bottlenose dolphins 

frolicking around 

your flippers is a 

memory you’ll want 

to replay. 

SNORKEL WITH 

WHALE SHARKS 

IN ARI ATOLL, 

MALDIVES 

This full-day 

excursion, run 

by the five-star 

Huvafen Fushi 

resort, makes 

snorkelling with 

these giants feel 

like a one-on-one. 

Float calmly as they 

glide past. 

DIVE WITH 

TURTLES IN 

SIPADAN, 

MALAYSIA 

Turtle-spotting 

off Sipadan Island 

doesn’t feel as 

intrusive with 

access limited 

to 120 people a 

day. Go April to 

September, when 

females nest on the 

beach. 


La Maddalena, Sardinia 

Are you floating? Or are you flying? 

The clarity of the water surrounding 

Sardinia’s virgin Maddalena archipelago 

can play tricks on you. As you lie 

suspended in the aquamarine liquid, 

ears submerged so that all sounds 

are dulled to a drowsy murmur, the 

sailboat that delivered you here looks 

as if it’s dangling in mid-air — it’s almost 

impossible to gauge where the sky ends 

and the sea begins. You knew Sardinia’s 

northeast coast would be a corker: its 

white-sand coves pick up best-beach 

awards as breezily as daisies. But the 

Maddalena islands’ shores are a notch 

up: so pristine and well-protected, the 

judges don’t yet know to add them to 

their shortlist. Of the 60-plus islands, 

you can only camp on a handful, so a 

boat trip is the best way to make this 

fantasy swim real. Dario, the skipper of 

’20s wooden sailboat Pulcinella, knows 

the Maddalenas like his own children, 

and always delivers his group (of 12 

max) there ahead of the pack. While he 

drops anchor, shimmy your way past 

others onto the first dinghy headed to 

shore — that way, yours will be the first 

body of the day to hit the crystal waters. 

Go in September: the shallow bays are 

tub-warm and you might even spot a 

dolphin or two. 


BEST SWIMS 

BUCKET-LIST DIP 

Bondi Icebergs 

Pool or sea? The dilemma has never 

been more delicious than at Sydney’s 

iconic Bondi Beach, where the sandy 

southern reaches meet an Olympicsized, 

man-made swimming pool 

(and a smaller kids’ one) known as 

‘the Icebergs’. The swimming club it’s 

named after was founded 90 years ago 

so that Bondi’s lifeguards could train 

year-round, and there’s nothing more 

exhilarating than being smacked in the 

face by salty surf while powering across 

its wind-rippled infinity pool. Don’t miss 

the sauna, included in your ticket price. 

SECRET SPLASH 

The Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye 

At the foot of Skye’s brooding Cuillin 

mountains, the river fizzes into a 

string of crystal-clear ponds. Clamber 

down from the trail onto broad, flat 

rocks so you can shed your gear and 

dive into the limpid water of the first 

pool. It’s freezing so bring a wetsuit 

outside of summer. Emboldened by 

that icy adrenaline? Dive down to swim 

under the submerged stone arch that 

connects two of the pools. They’re 

an easy half-hour hike along gently 

ascending hillside from the nearest car 

park (Glumagan Na Sithichean). 

SKY-HIGH SWIM 

Shangri-La Hotel at the 

Shard, London 

Swimming above London’s 

helicopters — in the Shard’s 52 nd - 

storey ‘Skypool’ — is a once-ina-lifetime 

encounter. It’s also a 

once-in-a-lifetime spend for a swim, 

as the pool is open only to hotel 

guests. Note to fitness swimmers: 

it’s diddy, at just 11m long. Note 

to parents: kids are only allowed 

between 9am and 11am and 3pm 

and 5pm. Note to daydreamers: 

there are sofas and free coffee, so 

make a morning of it. 

HOTEL-POOL SWIM 

Four Seasons Serengeti 

A dust-dry plain sprouting baobab 

trees, clouds scudding across a 

burnt yellow sky, and 

herds of elephants, buffaloes and 

zebras at feeding time. A baby 

elephant clambers into the water to 

cool off just metres from the lip of 

the infinity pool where you’re doing 

the same. From sunrise to sunset, 

this glimmering water gives you a 

front-row seat for the Tanzanian 

watering hole’s daily dramas (keep 

your eyes peeled for trotting 

warthogs), as well as miles of empty 

savannah ahead. You’ll see the 

most diverse wildlife during the dry 

season (July-October). 


BEST SWIMS 

©Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 

SKY-HIGH SWIM 

Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 

Singapore’s streets is the ultimate 

swimmer’s selfie. A 6am swim before 

the crowds arrive, with dawn breaking 

behind the sharp-shouldered towers of 

the financial district, is worth the price 

of the stay alone. 

SECRET SPLASH 

Wadi Shab, Oman 

Look up: youngsters are diving off the 

cliffs, screeching into the soup-warm 

water. Their splashes are muffled by 

the slender Wadi Shab ravine, a deep 

valley of emerald-green pools edged 

by sandstone and palm trees. But 

you’ve already had your adrenaline fix 

scrambling over sandstone boulders 

for half an hour to get here (after 

a 2.5-hour drive from Muscat), so 

skip the jump and drift lazily into 

the pool. Swim through the shaded 

depths until you find the narrow 

arch at the end of the ravine. Here, 

the Wadi reveals its secret: a hidden 

cave pool, framed by a narrow 

waterfall, like a sultan’s secret 

bath house. 

SECRET SPLASH 

Elbow Beach, Bermuda 

Swimming here is like gliding across a 

mag cover. Stroll east from the resortowned 

private stretch of Elbow beach 

to the public bit — a glorious swathe of 

sand known only by locals. Its pinktinged 

sand gives the sea an extraluminous 

aquamarine hue. 

3PERFECT 

POOLS IN 

THE UAE 

ANANTARA THE 

PALM DUBAI 

RESORT, DUBAI 

Here, it's as easy as 

opening the door 

of your over water 

villa and dipping 

straight into the 

tranquil swimming 

lagoons that weave 

their way through 

this Thai-inspired 

resort on Palm 

Jumeirah. 

THE ST. REGIS 

ABU DHABI 

Back with a fresh 

new look and feel, 

this luxury hotel's 

inifnity pool, at 

Nation Riviera 

Beach Club, draws 

design lovers 

with its elegant 

mix of colour and 

pattern. Chill while 

overlooking the 

private beach. 

ADDRESS SKY 

VIEW, DUBAI 

Take the plunge 

and soak up the 

panoramic city 

views at the hotel's 

sparkling infinity 

pool. Perched high 

up on the Sky Deck, 

this elevated oasis 

in Downtown Dubai 

is best enjoyed with 

a drink in hand at 

the pool bar. 

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort 


BEST SWIMS 


Grace Hotel, Santorini 

Santorini splash you’ve dreamt of 

— all smooth white edges meeting 

endless Mediterranean shimmer 

and honeymooners chain-ordering 

bubbly. Plan a walk for later (the 

bell-shaped Skaros Rock is in view, 

as is the coastal trail to that postcard 

town Oia), but for now, accept that 

the Grace’s pool scene is all about 

soaking up rays, grazing on sea 

bass carpaccio in the shaded nooks 

behind it, and people-watching from 

behind your shades. Rise early to 

nab the loungers to the far right of 

the pool as you face it: they’re the 

evening suntraps. 


3CITY 

SWIMS 

THERMAE BATH 

SPA, BATH 

You can’t swim in 

the ancient Roman 

baths here, but 

you can idle in 

the mineral-rich 

waters at this multilevel 

spa. Paddle 

through pools up to 

a heated open-air 

pool surrounded by 

spires and Regency 

rooftops. 

BADESCHIFF, 

BERLIN 

Urban beaches 

pop up in summer 

from Paris to 

London, but 

Berlin’s is the 

coolest, a full-on 

neon-blue pool 

immersed in the 

Spree river. Go for 

mingling, beats 

and bars on its 

wooden deck. 

PISCINE MOLITOR, 

PARIS 

The grande-dame 

Art Deco pool is 

a photographer’s 

dream (and 

filmmaker’s: it had 

a cameo in the film 

Life of Pi) with its 

crisp balconies 

and doorways. To 

use it, you’ll need 

a key to the Hotel 

Molitor Paris. 

Thermae Bath Spa 

SECRET SPLASH 

Angle Tarn, 

Lake District, England 

It’s nippy all right, but after a sweaty 

slog up from the valley below, nippy is 

precisely what you’ll be wanting. Dive 

in, surrendering to its icy embrace 

(a swimming cap will help), as your 

exhilarated whoops echo around 

the amphitheatre of lonely crags 

towering above. For swimmers, the 

Lake District is an all-you-can-eat 

buffet of lakes and meres, river pools 

and tarns, but if anywhere up here 

puts the ‘wild’ into ‘wild swimming’, 

it’s this mountain pool, marooned 

halfway up England’s highest summit, 

Scafell Pike. Distance swimmers need 

not apply—it’s only 200m from shore 

to shore. But lazybones should take 

their Speedos elsewhere: it’s dizzyingly 

remote, reached only after a two-hour 

ascent from Seathwaite, Wasdale Head 

or the Langdale Valley. Wild paddlers 

should budget for longer: all routes up 

(on excellent, waymarked paths) follow 

stunning mountain streams that twinkle 

and tease at every turn. Wild camping 

is the way to do it, if you can — a flat, 

grassy shelf on its northern shore is 

crying out for a tent and stove. 


BEST SWIMS 

© Palais Namaskar, Marrakech 

HOTEL-POOL HEAVEN 

Palais Namaskar, 

Marrakech 

Atlas Mountains beyond, the pool 

is so serene it seems a shame 

to disturb it. Despite its vast 

proportions (long enough for 

lengths, but with shallow steps 

for kids, too), it is heated, so go in 

February/March when it’s 26°C by 

lunchtime, but the peaks are still 

snow-capped. Most guests use their 

private villa pools, leaving this one 

perpetually peaceful. 

SECRET SPLASH 

Paxos, Greece 

Paxos has dreamy swims by the 

dozen, but the beach you want is 

Lakkos, a cliff-hugged splodge of 

white pebbles in the Ionian island’s 

northeast. Swim laps around the curl 

of the bay, or float over fish-silvered 

seaweed and spiny black urchins 

(mind your feet). Go in May, when the 

sea is warming up and you get the 

beach to yourself. Steps back up lead 

to a steep path best tackled barefoot 

— you’ll slide out of your flip-flops. 

BUCKET LIST 

The Blue Lagoon, Iceland 

Waste products from power stations 

don’t usually look this ethereally 

beautiful. But this is Iceland — so this 

man-made ‘lagoon’ is geothermal, the 

water luminously blue (it’s the silicates, 

since you asked), and sociable soaks in 

it are part of the culture. Travel snobs 

will tell you that real Icelanders are more 

likely to go to smaller, local pools (which 

is true), but none of those municipal 

baths offers the same dramatic black 

crags or haunting mistscape. 

Credit: The Sunday Times Travel Magazine / News Licensing 


Koh Hong, Thailand 

Everyone should take a boat trip in 

southern Thailand. Nowhere else in 

the world will you experience a more 

VIP-feeling voyage for so little cash 

(five hours’ gliding about costs from 

just $15). On your elegant longtail 

boat (speedboats are faster, but 

less romantic), strike a supermodel 

pose as you crane your neck to 

marvel at the mossy outcrops of 

the islands in the emerald waters 

off Krabi. Everyone does the Phi 

Phi islands, so head instead for the 

Hongs — Koh Hong National Park 

is the wild James Bond seduction 

fantasy you’ve always pictured. 

Book the right boat and its skipper 

will take you for a swim in the secret 

lagoon encircled by rock face at the 

island’s centre, before depositing 

you on fine, gold sand, under 

imposing, vine-tangled cliffs. The 

beach should be quiet, but up your 

chances by going in the shoulder 

season (late November or May). 


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A daisy field in Svaneti, Georgia, 

with a view towards Ushba 

Postcards 

Stories from journeys 

far and wide 

GEORGIA p36 

BRAZIL p42 

VENICE p48 


CALIFORNIA 

Soaking up 

the sun and scenery at 

Georgia Glamping 


GEORGIA 

Beyond Tbilisi lies a paradise of 

hiking,homestays and upmarket camping in 

Georgia. Yvonne Gorden goes exploring… 


GEORGIA 

the clock on 

the wall reads 

5.30pm. Irina 

sits chatting at 

the large round table as her young 

grandchildren, Giorgi and Mariami, 

play beside her. Outside, chickens and 

pigs root around in the grass. Behind 

the house is forest and a dramatic 

mountain backdrop, the green fields 

and trees fading away to grey, rocky 

summits lined with snow and ice. 

It’s a peaceful scene in Gona, in 

the Racha region of western Georgia, 

5,500ft above sea level in the Caucasus 

Mountains. This was once a thriving 

village, but the remaining scattered 

houses are mostly deserted after 

the molybdenum mines closed 

in the 1950s; butterflies and wild 

flowers have claimed the gateways 

of abandoned properties. Irina 

and her family are the only fulltime 

residents, and even they only 

spend eight months of the year 

here, as the road is impassable 

from November to March due to 

snow. A few other families come 

for a week or two of holidays. 

We’re here, just a few miles from 

the Russian border, to experience 

Georgia’s less familiar areas, those 

untouched by tourism. We had to get 

permits to hike in the area and a local 

driver to bring us here in a 4x4, up 

a bumpy potholed road. The Racha 

highland region promises endless 

hiking trails, pristine mountains and 

glaciers, amazing food and a slowtravel 

experience away from betterknown 

areas such as Tbilisi and 

Svaneti. Even most of the Georgians 

I meet elsewhere haven’t been here. 

When we visit Irina and her family 

— her husband, Gia, their son David 

and his wife, Maka — they give us, 

a group of four slightly dishevelled 

hikers, a warm welcome. “They’re 

offering us cheese bread,” says 

Zviad, our guide, who is translating. 

Mariami’s crayons are cleared away 

and a plate of khachapuri appears 

on the table. Next, a tomato and 

cucumber salad. Then fruit. 

Soon the table fills with meat, 

cheese, wild onions and sour cream. 

Gia fills glasses and proposes the 

first of many toasts — to thank us 

for coming here. It’s typical Georgian 

hospitality, where guests are seen 

as a “gift from God”. The mines may 

be closed, but there are signs that 

the fledgling tourist industry will 

bring more people to the area. Irina 

proudly shows us a visitors’ book. 

Everyone is provided with just such 

a feast and not charged a penny. 

Earlier in the day, we’d hiked to 

the nearby Kirtisho glacier through 

woods of pine, chestnut, beech and 

rich green ferns, and along a forestry 

trail filled with wild roses, daisies 

and butterflies. The distant mountain 

peaks looked grey and moody, with 

pockets of snow and ice between rocky 

ridges. Meltwater rushed from a cave 

under the glacier to the river below. 

That evening, at Sergo’s Guest 

House, in the village of Ghebi, we 

gather at a communal dining table 

for a feast of chicken, potatoes and 

bread. Fellow guests from Belarus 

join our enthusiastic toasts, even 

though they don’t understand them. 

After dinner, we watch Sergo’s aunt 

making Racha cheese. There are four 

shared rooms — Sergo is adding more 

accommodation and a dining room to 

meet growing demand. After dinner, 

his builders, Giorgi and Zuriko, play 

dominoes under the stars as the haze 

of the Milky Way stretches over the 

silent mountains in the distance. 

In the next few years, the 

Transcaucasian Trail, a long-distance 

hiking route being developed in the 

Caucasus, will connect to the region, 

linking Svaneti to Ghebi and bringing 

more hikers to the area. Indeed, the 

walking is the highlight of our days. 

From the resort town of Shovi, a fourmile, 

3½-hour (each way) trek takes us 

up to the Buba glacier. The trail starts 

steep and muddy, through pine and 

beech forest. After a couple of hours, it 

opens up to subalpine meadows, with 

the long grass full of pink and white 

daisies, buttercups and butterflies. 

At the top of the meadow, at 8,000ft, 

we take in the scene — 360-degree 

views of jagged mountaintops. 

Credit: Yvonne Gorden / The Sunday Times / News Licensing 


Clockwise from top left: 

A deluxe tent at Georgia Glamping; 

wildflowers bloom in the mountains; 

hikers explore the Caucasus Mountains; 

cheese bread topped with egg; horses 

pause to drink from a mountain lake 


GEORGIA 

Activities on the lake aside 

Georgia Glamping 

We fill our water bottles with 

cool water from a stream and 

watch as puffy clouds slowly push 

shadows over the green hills. 

At the country’s first glamping site, 

Glamping Georgia, in Ambrolauri, six 

space-age-looking round white tent 

pods are set on a hill, overlooking 

a valley and slopes of dense pine 

forest. Inside the air-conditioned 

tents, there’s a bathroom and a 

kitchenette; outside, a private deck 

with wicker rocking chairs. Linden, 

oak and apple trees surround the 

tents. The clean, fresh air is rich 

with birdsong and insects zip back 

and forth. The only other sound is 

the Krikhula River below. It’s the 

perfect place to disconnect. A canopy 

of stars opens up overhead and 

Giorgi, the owner, drops by to give 

us a bottle of his homemade grape. 

We spend the final days of our 

trip in central Georgia, at Borjomi, 

a summer retreat for the Romanovs, 

famous for its mineral waters and 

sulphur baths. Covering 210,000 acres, 

the Borjomi-Kharagauli National 

Park has one of the largest areas 

of pristine virgin forest in Europe, 

and many flora and fauna habitats. 

There are 12 marked trails for hiking, 

riding and snowshoeing, as well as 

tourist shelters and camping areas. 

We hike the Nikoloz Romanov Trail 

from Likani to Lomis mountain, 

where a river valley leads up through 

forest to alpine meadows of tall 

grasses and wild flowers. We pass 

only a handful of other hikers. I know 

that the reward at 7,200ft will be the 

views. What I don’t expect to find at 

the top is free-roaming horses with 

glossy brown coats, a tiny decorative 

church and carpets of wild blooms. 

This is what we came for — unspoilt 

nature and slow travel. It’s a few 

hours’ hike back down, but all I want 

to do is lie down amid the flowers, 

close my eyes and just breathe. 

Inspired to travel? To book a trip, call 

800 DNATA or visit dnatatravel.com 

‘ 

THE CLEAN, FRESH AIR 

IS RICH WITH BIRDSONG 

AND INSECTS ZIP BACK 

AND FORTH. THE ONLY 

OTHER SOUND IS THE 

KRIKHULA RIVER BELOW 

’ 



INDONESIA 

This image: A bowl of 

Moqueca, a traditional fish 

stew Opposite: A woman 

celebrates during carnival time 

This page: The pool 

at Amanpuri 


BRAZIL 

Street parties, sugar plantations, white sands and 

coral-snorkelling: if you want the Caribbean of old, you 

need Bahia, in Brazil, says Alex Robinson 


entle bays 

where turtles 

swim in 

turquoise seas. 

Dancing feet 

on cobbled 

streets... The 

images filled my 

thoughts. Carnival drums and carved saints 

came to mind. Crimson sunsets and freshly 

cracked coconuts brimming over with juice. 

If I’d rung up a travel agent and uttered 

those words I know where they’d have 

recommended: the Caribbean for two weeks. 

But I knew precisely where my tropical 

daydreams could be brought to life — Brazil. 

For a while in the Noughties, I lived 

in Brazil’s biggest city, São Paulo. It was 

friends there — friends who I keep to this 

day — who’d opened my eyes to the allure 

of the northeastern state, Bahia. ‘You have 

to see it,’ I remember them swooning. ‘It’s 

just like Jamaica or Barbados, but better.’ 

Of course I went — and not just the once. 

In Bahia, Africa was replanted in South 

America — under coconut palms and in 

sugarcane plantations cut from parrotfilled 

forests. Transported slaves were 

inevitably part of the story — and they held 

on fiercely to what traditions they could. 

The legacy for arrivals today? Spicy food, 

magical saints, street parties and irresistible 

music. I’ve holidayed in the Caribbean, 

and Bahia makes me think of what those 

islands might have been before the cruise 

ships and high-rise hotels arrived. 

Its state capital, Salvador — wow! 

Never mind Havana, this is the liveliest, 

most sultry colonial city in the Americas. 

The food’s unforgettable, the nightlife 

pulsating, and the white-sand beaches just 

a half-hour ferry-ride away on Itaparica 

island. It’s so good that, basically, I’ve 

never been able to tear myself away. 

So that’s where I’d be heading. But those 

friends again... Ringing me recently, they 

raved about Boipeba, a reef-fringed island 

south of Salvador, shrouded with forest, 

seemingly with more wild horses than 

people. ‘It puts Itaparica in the shade,’ they 

said. It stuck in my mind as I finalised 

my plans. Would Boipeba be the one to 

seduce me from Salvador’s embrace? 

Watching the sun sinking golden over 

Salvador from the balcony of my hotel room 

on my first breeze-cooled afternoon, I was 

already falling back under its spell. The 

houses of the Pelourinho, the old colonial 

centre, rolled down a hill below me in 

tumbledown terracotta and stippled steeples 

to a Tiffany-blue sea. Itaparica island floated 

on the horizon. A hummingbird flitted over 

a bougainvillea tree next to my window and 

music wafted up from the streets. As the day 

was ending in buttery yellow light, Salvador 

was waking up. It was Saturday night and 

soon it would be dark — time to let the 

sensuous, spontaneous city carry me away. 

Outside the hotel, Terreiro de Jesus Square 

was a swirl of movement. Afro-Brazilian 

women in huge bustle skirts and bright 

headscarves served steaming falafel-like 

acarajé snacks at lace-draped stalls. The 

air was sweet with the scent of chilli and 

shrimp, and danced with the melodious 

chatter of Brazilian Portuguese. I heard 

the rat-a-tat of a repinique samba drum 

echoing from one of the brightly painted 

houses set around the square, and in the 

distance, the Voodoo Chile wah-wah twang 

of a berimbau — the single-string guitar 

with a gourd for a sound board. I followed 

the notes along a narrow cobbled street into 

the thronging heart of the Pelourinho. 

Music was everywhere: a normal 

Salvador weekend entle bays where feels 

like Trinidad in carnival time. Brazilian 

reggae oozed from streetside bars, samba 

skipped across little praças. And somewhere 

I could hear that most Salvadorean of 

sounds — an afoxê orchestra warming 

up. Paul Simon called afoxê the ‘rhythm 

of the saints’ — a pounding, visceral 

beat that hits you below the waistline. 

It’s played by bands of drummers who 

parade through the streets with military 

precision and tribal swing. They energise 

the Pelourinho at weekends, calling the 

crowds with bass drums and clattering 

timbales, and pulling revellers behind 

them like Pied Pipers with percussion. 

First, a drink or two. At my favourite 

Salvador bar, Uauá, above a narrow street 

leading into the Pelourinho, I had a ringside 

seat. As my first Caipirinha arrived, an afoxê 

band came round the corner. By the second, 

I was jiggling in my seat, ready to dance. I 

could already hear the next wave coming. 


BRAZIL 

Clockwise from top left: 

Sunset falls on La Rivera beach; 

traditional drummers bring the 

beat to the street; a colourful hut 

between coconut palm trees on 

Boipeba Island; capoeira played 

on the beach 


The Old Town in Salvador 


BRAZIL 

‘ 

SALVADOR — WOW! NEVER 

MIND HAVANA, THIS IS THE 

LIVELIEST, MOST SULTRY 

COLONIAL CITY IN THE AMERICAS 

’ 

Credit: The Sunday Times Travel Magazine / News Licensing 

Banda Didá, an all-female percussion band 

led by a woman with a huge pink Afro 

burst into the street below me, playing 

right below my table. A local couple at 

the next table looked across and smiled. 

‘Vamos, amigo!’ they said. I had no choice. 

Salvador had taken me. So I joined them 

on the streets, to parade and dance behind 

Banda Didá, drink more Caipirinhas and 

finish the night goodness knows when. 

Sunday morning woke me with 

church bells and more percussion. 

I’d only had a few hours’ sleep, but I 

couldn’t resist Salvador’s drums. 

Later, as I cooled in the hotel pool 

with an açai-berry smoothie, I could 

feel myself coming dangerously close to 

giving in to Salvador’s seductive pull — 

there were all those markets to revisit, 

piquant food to sample, more glittering 

churches, more drum parades... 

‘Stay,’ sang Salvador. Boipeba, I 

reminded myself. I needed to get there 

before Salvador sucked me in. So I 

skipped the overland route south via 

sugarcane fields and chocolate plantations 

and splashed out on an air taxi. 

The flight was spectacular — over 

the terracotta and high-rise sprawl of 

Salvador, the glittering Bay of All Saints, 

specked with white yachts and tiny beachfringed 

islands. Then rainforest: ribbons 

of brown river snaking through the green 

into swathes of spidery mangroves, white 

egrets floating above them like winddrifting 

petals. An eagle... The mangroves 

became beaches and beaches and beaches. 

Then we dropped over a river-mouth 

harbour with a few wooden fishing boats, 

a tiny hamlet of cottages, a cocoa tree 

plantation, a gash of grass cut from the 

coconut palms... This was Boipeba. 

I’d decided to stay in Boipeba village. 

There were options further south that 

looked wilder, but I wanted a bit of 

local life. The island, friends had told 

me, is cut with trails running through 

the rainforest, sweeping along the 

beaches. Don’t just flop on the beach, 

they said. Boipeba is a place to walk. 

My hotel, Pousada Santa Clara, was 

a delight, shaded by tall branches and 

set in its own butterfly-filled tropical 

garden near the village beach. I allowed 

myself one afternoon to laze in the 

hammock outside my room, thumbing 

a paperback and watching as marmoset 

monkeys played in the trees, and little 

agoutis — like guinea pigs on stilts — 

rummaged underneath. In the evening 

I wandered along the beach into the 

village, a strip of sand lined with a few 

thatched bars, and watched the sun 

sink watermelon-red behind the palms. 

The moqueca I ordered — a fish stew 

similar to Jamaican rundown, but with 

twice the flavour — came in a huge 

terracotta pot, simmering in coconut and 

dendê oil, garnished with coriander. 

But the locals at the adjacent table 

— three young men with dreadlocks 

and tiny Speedos and a woman in an 

equally tiny bikini — wouldn’t let me eat 

alone. ‘This is Bahia,’ they laughed. And 

I was pulled over to join them at their 

table. Glasses clinked in introduction 

— ‘Pedro, Chico, João e Andressa.’ 

‘Meet us on the beach tomorrow,’ they 

said after dinner. ‘We’ll play capoeira, 

then show you the way to Moreré. It’s the 

most beautiful beach on the island.’ Like 

Salvador, Boipeba had taken hold of me. 

The next day I woke early, when the 

sun was still twinkling low over the sea, 

its first rays as gentle as the lapping 

water on Boipeba village’s white beach. 

Capoeira is tough — a whirligig martialart 

dance with intricate steps. I’d never 

even managed the most basic of them. 

But then my new friends appeared, all 

smiles and high-fives, and the capoeira 

began — João with the berimbau, me 

awkwardly bashing out rhythms on a 

hand drum. And Andressa and Chico 

began to dance — spinning and swirling 

at effortless speed. I was dragged in. And 

with all the rhythm and positive energy 

of the morning I somehow managed a 

capoeira ginga — the simplest three-way 

step that lies behind all capoeira moves. 

It was the first time I’d mastered it, and I 

sat down, sweaty, panting and grinning 

with boyish pleasure at my achievement. 

After a cool beach-bar passionfruit 

juice we set off to Moreré, my toes 

sinking into the sand as I walked, sending 

ghost crabs scurrying into their burrows. 

The path left the sand and cut up into 

rainforest. An iridescent blue morpho 

butterfly as big as a handkerchief floated 

along before us like a spirit guide. Birds 

chirruped welcomes overhead and a 

cicada soundwave washed through the 

trees, hissing like water on a shingly 

shore. We passed beach after beach, 

all gorgeous enough to fill a whole day. 

There was palm-shaded Tassimirim, 

empty but for a couple of feral horses. 

(‘You can hire a horse for a beach ride,’ 

Andressa told me.) Then the long, 

broad crescent of white-pepper-fine 

sand at Cueira — which took half an 

hour to walk across. (‘This is where we 

come to body-surf,’ said João.) And 

then Moreré. 

Moreré is that beach everyone 

dreams of — squeaky white sand, 

turquoise sea, towering coconut palms 

and a single bamboo kiosk, painted 

in bright colours, with wooden tables 

in the sand under a thatch roof. The 

Caribbean had nothing on this. 

We ordered fresh fish straight from 

the reef and a chilled green coconut. The 

bartender — like a young Grace Jones 

— opened it with two swift hacks of a 

machete. Later we snorkelled over the 

turtle-filled reef and lazed in tidal pools 

as big as tennis courts. It was bliss. 

And I had a week ahead of me to 

snorkel, to body-surf, to horse-ride 

and to wander the forest trails. 

Salvador had seduced me. But on 

Boipeba I had fallen in love. 




long 

the 

weekend 

Venice 

A labyrinth of busy squares, 

colourful canals and marble 

palazzos, this floating city 

floods the imagination with 

its classical beauty 

This page: A gondola gliding its 

way through the city 

Opposite, from top: Sweeping 

views of the Dorsoduro district, 

Al Ponte Antico Hotel 


THE LONG WEEKEND 

Venice welcomes you with an enchanting serenade, as 

gondoliers glide their way through the intricate web of 

the city's many waterways, carrying loved-up couples 

from all over the world. The beating heart of the city 

is the Grand Canal, a reflection of architectural glories 

with exquisite palazzos and gothic museums lining its 

banks. On land, narrow backstreets twist past and over 

bridges to unveil a treasure trove of art and culture. 

The city is divided into six districts (the sestieri), each 

with its own charm and character. One way or another, 

you're bound to wind up at San Marco. At the core 

of the city, it is where iconic sights, such as St. Mark’s 

Basilica and the Doge’s Palace can be found. Across the 

Rialto Bridge is San Polo with its lively bar scene, while 

the artisans' neighbourhood of Dorsoduro is brimming 

with prestigious art galleries. The largest of the sestieri, 

Castello is where you can watch elderly Venetian women 

gossip between windows and children playing ball in 

the piazzas. Lose yourself in the winding alleyways and 

discover why visitors flock to this fairytale-like city. 

BLISSFUL SLUMBER 

Doze off to the lullabies 

of the city 

Literary 

dream 

These hidden gems will 

result in a serious case of 

bibliophilia 

The artsy one: Officially 

declared a National 

Monument on account of 

its beauty, Ca Sagredo 

Hotel is an art-lovers 

dream-stay. Make your 

way up the magnificent 

18th century Scalone dei 

Giganti staircase that’s 

entirely surrounded by 

frescoes, and wander 

through hallways adorned 

with original masterpieces 

by Venetian painters 

including Niccolò Bambini 

and Giambattista Tiepolo. 

The grand one: It's easy 

to understand why the 

Clooney’s chose to spend 

their wedding night at this 

sumptuous 16th century 

palazzo. Aman Venice 

welcomes you with its own 

brand of luxury – think 

trompe-l’oeil grandiose 

staircase, Murano glass 

chandeliers, Rubelli silk 

wall coverings and Rococo 

works of art, to name a few. 

The cosy one: Tucked away 

in the charming Dorsoduro 

district, Ca’ Maria Adele 

draws style-conscious 

travellers with its unique 

take on Venetian décor. 

The boutique hotel boasts 

five concept rooms, each 

with its own design and 

story. Book the Sala Noire 

and relish in its delicious 

decadence while the Sala 

del Doge will make you feel 

like a duke with its swathes 

of scarlet boldness. 

The bella vista one: For 

gorgeous city views, the 

terrace at Al Ponte Antico 

is a fantastic place to have 

a drink while gazing at the 

Grand Canal and the Rialto. 

Its central location also 

means that some of the 

best sights in Venice are 

within walking distance. 

THE BOOKSTORE: 

LIBRERIA ACQUA 

ALTA Here, books fill 

old gondolas, canoes, 

bathtubs and barrels. 

Encyclopaedias line the 

walls to make an 

intriguing staircase and 

fluffy cats inhabit every 

corner as if they rule the 

place. This chaotic yet 

charming book shop is 

the city’s best-kept secret 

and a dream come true 

for bargain hunters due to 

its second-hand literary 

treasures. 

THE LIBRARY: BIBLIOTECA 

NAZIONALE MARCIANA 

Considered one of the 

oldest and most stunning 

libraries in Italy, this 

architectural beauty 

is home to the largest 

classical texts collections 

in the world, including 

manuscripts, incunabula, 

and works printed between 

1500 and 1600. 



Get crafty 

Take a piece of the city 

back home 

From top to bottom: 

A bowl of squid ink pasta, 

decorative Venetian masks, 

St Mark's Campanile 

Venetian masks 

A tradition that dates back 

thousands of years, maskmaking 

is an integral part 

of the city’s culture. Avoid 

paying over the odds at 

touristy souvenir shops and 

opt for making one yourself 

at Ca’Macana – the family 

owned store is known for 

creating the masks that 

appeared in the film Eyes 

Wide Shut. camacana.com 

Murano glass 

Watching a Murano glass 

sculpture come to life 

is as fascinating as its 

translucent beauty, and the 

island of Murano is the only 

place on the planet that 

produces these coveted 

pieces of art. Get an insider 

ALL IN GOOD TASTE 

Discover the lagoon city's hidden food haunts 

The Venetian version 

of tapas, Cicchetti is a 

must-try while in Venice. 

These traditional bites, 

served on small plates 

designed to share, will 

have your taste buds 

shouting “mamma 

mia!” Enjoy it the local 

way at Cantina Do 

Mori, but don’t expect 

to be seated; you’ll 

have to eat it like the 

locals do – standing 

up. For lunch, head to 

Ristorante Upupa and 

be sure to order their 

famous Spaghetti al 

Nero di Seppia. The 

distinctive pasta dish 

will win you over with 

its delicious flavour and 

charcoal black colour 

(courtesy of the squid 

ink). End the evening at 

one of the oldest cafés 

in Europe, Caffè Florian 

(caffeflorian.com). Having 

opened its doors in 

1720, it exudes old-world 

charm and boasts a 

stunning outdoor terrace 

on St Mark's Square. 

look at different glass 

techniques thanks to the 

dedicated tours on offer at 

Mazzega Glass Factory. 

Burano lace 

It’s said that King Louis XIV 

of France wore an original 

Burano lace collar on the 

day of his coronation. 

Suffice to say, it's an 

artwork in its own right. But 

you don’t need to go all 

the way to Burano Island to 

get these lovely crafts, as 

the famous Il Merletto shop 

in Venice displays a wide 

selection of original work. 

UP AND AWAY 

To get a thorough understanding of how beautiful 

this city is, you need to get on top of it. Not only 

does the St Mark's Campanile offer a breathtaking 

view of the Venetian Lagoon, it’s also home to one 

of the largest bells in the city, la Marangona. Just 

a short boat-ride away, San Giorgio Maggiore 

is a defining point on the Venice skyline, and its 

unrivalled panoramic views of the city makes it 

unlike any other. Hidden on a quiet street in the 

bustling tourist centre of St. Mark’s Square, Scala 

Contarini del Bovolo is instantly recognisable due 

to its snail's shell-like spiral staircase. Ascend the 

tower's twisting steps, pausing to look at the views 

revealed at every twist and turn. Once you reach the 

top, you’ll be awed by the picturesque view. 



UNDER A BRIDGE 

Each with its own story, Venetian bridges 

unveil the city's deep-seated history 

From top: Bridge of 

Sighs; St. Mark's Square 

Legend has it that lovers who kiss on a gondola at 

sunset under the Ponte dei Sospiri will be granted 

eternal love and happiness. Designed by Italian 

architect Antonio Contino, the bridge connects the 

Doge's Palace to the city’s historic prisons. It’s said 

that prisoners, on their way to incarnation, got to 

take one last peek at the city through the bridge’s 

tiny gaps. Overcome with its beauty, it prompted 

them to sigh, hence its moniker: the Bridge of Sighs. 

One of the last remaining Venetian bridges 

without guardrails, Ponte Chiodo in the Cannaregio 

neighbourhood is the place to get your thrills of the 

day. If you’re feeling courageous, you can capture 

that coveted Instagram shot of your legs dangling 

over the edge. 

One of only four bridges to span the Grand Canal, 

Ponte dell'Accademia charms with its peaceful 

ambience and unique views of the city. Something 

of an undiscovered gem, the bridge packs less 

crowds than the city’s main attraction, the Rialto 

Bridge, making it your ideal sunset destination. 

ask a local 

BRICK IN 

THE WALL 

Carlo Bettuolo, 

destination wedding 

photographer, 

shares her his top 

tips for exploring 

the city 

Get lost in Castello, the oldest district 

in the city, and admire the architectural 

details of buildings steeped in more than 

eight centuries of history. For the perfect 

Instagram shot, head to San Moisè Bridge 

– its colourful background will ensure your 

feed pops. For anyone visiting for the first 

time, I always recommend the guided tour 

of Teatro la Fenice, which is one of the 

most beautiful opera houses in the world. 

The city is brimming over with first-class 

dining venues but my absolute favourite 

is Algiubagió. Be seated at a table on the 

wooden platform overlooking the lagoon 

and tuck into delicious Venetian staples 

and fresh seafood dishes. The restaurant's 

stunning views will stay with you long after 

you leave. 

From exquisite marble 

palaces to hidden 

gems on the Grand 

Canal, there are 

numerous architectural 

marvels to discover. 

St Mark's Basilica 

(basilicasanmarco.it) 

is hard to miss with its 

luminous gold mosaics 

and profusion of grand 

domes. Dating back 

to the 11th century, the 

Venetian cathedral is 

a leading example of 

Byzantine architecture. 

A short walk away 

is Doge's Palace 

(palazzoducale. 

visitmuve.it), a gothic 

masterpiece that is the 

formerly the seat of 

Venetian government. 

Its interior is equally 

stunning with highlights 

including the Sala del 

Maggior Consiglio (the 

grand council hall) and 

Sansovino’s golden 

stairway, Scala d’Oro. 

If you tire of 

pounding the 

pavements, why not 

give in to the classic 

tourist bucket-list 

experience of a 

gondola tour along 

the canals. Splash out 

on a private guide 

who can steer you 

past all the top sites 

and into the smaller, 

more tranquil canals 

that offer a glimpse of 

everyday city life. 

Words: Habiba Azab 


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Photo: Emirates Palace 


Island 

Lore 

Mysterious coconuts, voodoo 

dolls and otherworldly 

beaches, Sophia Dyer is 

spellbound by the Seychelles 


WEEKENDS 

Legend has it that a traveller who 

eats from the breadfruit tree 

while in the Seychelles is fated to 

return to its sandy shores. A melting 

pot of people and cultures, it only 

seems right that the Creole islands 

are brimming with local legends, 

myths and folklore. A self-confessed 

purveyor of all things mystic, it was 

the islands ‘more than meets the 

eye’ appeal that lured me, far more 

than just its postcard scenes. 

First on my numinous pursuit was 

unearthing the mysterious coco de 

mer, a distinct palm endemic to just 

two of the 115 Seychellean islands. 

Like something from prehistoric 

fiction, the suggestively curvaceous 

coconuts looked as if they belonged 

in the imagination of a weary sailor 

who had been out at sea for a number 

of weeks before finally reaching dry 

land. Yet here they were growing on 

huge palms so tall they seemingly 

touched the grey clouds, which were 

drooping low, heavy with rain. 

“People used to think the coco 

de mer trees grew in a forest at the 

bottom of the ocean, before the 

coconuts fell upwards and washed 

up on the beaches around the 

Indian Ocean,” Leroy, my tour guide 

explained with a wry smile. In the 

1600s the huge shells that washed 

up on shores were traded around the 

Arabian Peninsula for vast sums of 

money. Those who found the beached 

husks in the Maldives however, were 

ordered to hand them over to the 

king or face the death penalty. It 

wasn’t until British General Charles 

Gordon, discovered the uninhabited 

Seychelles isles in 1881 that the fate 

of the plant was changed forever. 

Taking one look at the mysteriously 

shaped nut, Gordon declared that 

he had found the original forbidden 

fruit. Drawing the only plausible 

conclusion, of course – that he had 

stumbled upon the Garden of Eden. 

Gordon’s revelation pleased the 

local community and saw the coco 

de mer become a protected species, 

putting an end to the trading of the 

fruit and introducing strict laws. Fast 

forward to today and it’s the reason 

why I came to be stood in Vallée de 

Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin island. 

One of the smallest UNESCO sites 

in the world, it is fiercely guarded 

by beefy security guards who patrol 

the grounds to ensure there is no 

untoward nut-nabbing, and quite 

understandably too as they can 

fetch up to $500. (Even if you could 

sneak past the guards, I wouldn’t 

recommend bagging one, as you 

need an export license to get these 

hefty nuts out of the country. Not to 

mention, with the nuts weighing up 

to 30kg, you’ll almost certainly be 

over on your baggage allowance.) 

Hawk-eyed guards aside, walking 

among these ancient trees felt truly 

special. Perhaps it had more to do 

with my love of a good story than 

the enigmatic palms themselves, 

but I was almost certain I could feel 

a subtle magic in the air here. Was 

Gordon onto something after all? 

Breaking the spell, I landed back in 

the site's gift shop to pricey nuts 

and the obligatory tourist tat. 

Since Gordon’s discovery, the 

African archipelagos have been 

penned as ‘paradise on Earth’ and, like 

its Indian Ocean counterparts, over 

the years it has become synonymous 

with honeymooners. The Seychelles, 

fitting the seemingly mandatory white 

sand beach bill, was the postnuptial 

destination of choice of George and 

Amal Clooney and the UK’s Duke 

and Duchess of Cambridge. While I 

Opposite page: Constance 

Lemuria beach This page: An aerial 

view of Constance Lemuria, Praslin 

was on a solo pursuit, if the beaches 

were good enough for the A-list, they 

were surely good enough for me. 

Known for being one of the nicest 

stretches of sand in the Seychelles, 

Anse Georgette was gothically 

moody. The dark green foliage 

surrounding the cove swayed 

rhythmically in the breeze as the 

ocean crashed into the rocks with 

a passionate force. Adding a hint 

of mystery, an ethereal mist floated 

down from the hills, evaporating 

as soon as it touched the water. 

Somewhat naïve to the powers 

of the ocean, I ran straight in as 

the clouds broke above me, at last 

relenting their pent-up rain with great 

catharsis. After a few exhales, the 

powerful waves threw me back onto 

the shore, to which I abided willingly. 

Settling down onto the sand, the 

rain began to ease and eventually 

the sun peaked through the clouds 

in otherworldly defiance. But what 

was extra special about this beach 

was that, bar myself and a few other 

travellers huddled under the trees, 

it was completely empty. This was 

probably due to the fact that getting 

here can be an exercise (involving 

a boat and hike). That is unless, like 

me, you are staying at Constance 

Lemuria, which boasts the beach 

as part of its grounds. Having just 

105 rooms and employing 402 staff 


Lemuria, earns the right to brand 

itself as an exclusive luxury resort. 

Not only providing unparalleled levels 

of service (thanks to the staff to 

guest ratio), the resort is also home 

to nesting hawksbill turtles and a 

host of five-star dining experiences. 

Pulling up to the hotel’s entrance, 

most of the passengers in my car 

were charmed by the pretty view of 

Lemuria’s 18-hole golf course – its 

fairways sparkling with dew. But 

to my golf-ignorant self, there was 

something far more interesting to 

the right. Just before the gates of 

the hotel, standing in solitude, was 

a solemn grey-hued bungalow. 

Its cracked walls and missing 

windows giving it an eerie feel, as 

if it was abandoned either halfway 

through a remodel or demolition. 

While pondering the reason it 

stood neglected, I met the eye of a 

disembodied dolls head pierced by 

a stick. One of its eyes was sharply 

open and seemingly glaring at mine, 

while the other seemed to droop 

shut in disdain. Before I could react, 

the voodoo-esque doll was out 

of sight, as we zoomed through 

the gates and were hurtled up the 

winding paths to reach the lobby. 

Large pillar candles lined the path 

to the grand, mahogany doors, 

which remained firmly shut until the 

staff shuffled into position. With 

the loud striking of a gong, the 

heavy doors were swung open as 

the smiley team chorused in unison, 

“welcome to paradise”. And as 

twee as it may sound, there was no 

denying that the vista ahead was 

nothing short of archetypal utopia. 

The indoor-outdoor lobby, 

surrounded by dense foliage, 

had kestrels flying overhead and 

peacocks roaming on nearby 

rocks. It overlooked the swimming 

pool, before the view seductively 

unfolded down to the white sand 

beach and ocean beyond. 

“According to folklore, the island of 

Lemuria was where people and nature 

lived in perfect harmony before it sank 

to the bottom of the Indian Ocean. In 

keeping with the legend, we create a 

balance between nature and humans 

at the resort,” the friendly host, 

‘ 

THE DARK 

GREEN FOLIAGE 

SURROUNDING 

THE COVE 

SWAYED 

RHYMICALLY IN 

THE BREEZE 

’ 

Alyona, explained as she showed me 

to my room. Attesting this, Constance 

Lemuria was the first resort in the 

Seychelles to receive a Green Globe 

award and continues to be one of the 

leaders for environmental practice 

among the neighbouring resorts and 

the local community. A welcome 

sight for my ‘save the planet’ attuned 

eyes, the hotel's green initiatives 

meant reusable glass bottles of water 

replaced their plastic equivalents in my 

suite. Helping myself to a thoughtfully 

placed, handcrafted dark chocolate, 

my stomach began to rumble. 

Lemuria’s creole influenced 

restaurant, The Nest, produced 

creatively displayed yet hefty 

portioned and richly flavoursome 

dishes. The first course appeared to 

be an elegantly constructed melon 

salad. However, a few bites in and 

I was pleasantly surprised by the 

white fruit’s uncharacteristically 

moreish, carbohydrate-rich taste. It 

turned out that the incognito fruit 

was, in fact, breadfruit. Breadfruit 

trees (suitably named after the fruit’s 

starchy consistency) were brought 

to the Seychelles along with a host 

of goods and folklore from around 

the globe by the archipelago’s first 

settlers. And much like my appetite 

for the lore, I couldn't help but dig 

into a second serving of the fruit. 

Another fine moment for my taste 

buds came a couple of days later while 

sunning myself on a beach in Mahé. 

With an expert whack of a knife, the 

coconut stall man handed me a green 

nut from which the nectar was now 

mine to slurp. Sipping away merrily, I 

watched local children play football 

to a soundtrack of hip-hop classics 

being pumped out from a Bluetooth 

speaker. A stark contrast from the 

quiet beaches of Praslin, Mahé’s 

beaches were, much to my enjoyment, 

abuzz with life. Quite rightly so, all 

the beaches in the Seychelles are 

open to the public, so here on the 

main island it is commonplace to be 

milling among the locals even inside 

the confines of your five-star resort. 

This resort, named Ephelia, another 

of Constance’s hotels, spans over 

120-hectares of land and caters mainly 

to families (or couples who easily 

bore of one another) with a solid line 

up of activities. Opting for a spot of 

snorkelling one afternoon, I headed 

to the beach, passing the vibrant 

red hibiscus trees that lined the path 

in an orderly fashion. By this point, 

feeling suitably settled into the island 

spirit, I picked a fresh flower from the 

ground and placed it behind my ear. 

“Do you know what that means?”, 

the watersports shack assistant asked 

me, pointing to the flower in my hair. 

“Err…” I mustered while wracking 

my mind for hibiscus trivia. 

“No,” I concluded. 

“It means you’re open to meeting 

someone special,” he laughed. And 

while this was not on my atoll agenda, 

not one for abiding to convention, I 

decided to leave the flower in my hair 

as I waddled into the ocean, flippers 

on feet, snorkel in hand. As I swam 

beside the entire cast of Finding 

Nemo, apart from Nemo (aptly) the 

hibiscus flower floated into the ocean 

along with the last of the Seychelles 

folklore I had time to uncover. 

When my five nights on the Creole 

isles drew to a close, I had gotten 

more than I bargained for, with an 

awakened lust for island living that 

made returning to the city seem near 

impossible. The Seychelles is not only 

profoundly beautiful, but vivaciously 

full of life and grit. And if you’re 

mystically minded, the island’s deeprooted 

legends are the gifts that keep 

on giving. Days later as I sit dreaming 

up ways to return to the Seychelles, I 

wonder if perhaps there’s something 

in that breadfruit legend after all. 




WEEKENDS 

Clockwise from left: A wild 

peacock; an aerial view of 

Constance Ephelia in Mahé, children 

play on a Seychelles beach; the 

coco de mer nuts in Praslin 


WORLD TRAVELLER X RENAISSANCE DOWNTOWN HOTEL DUBAI 

STAYCATION 

Renaissance Downtown Hotel Dubai 

Situated along the Dubai Water Canal, this showstopper wows with its A-list style luxury 

THE ROOMS & SUITES 

From the floor-to-ceiling gold chains 

to the art installations lining the 

corridors, Art Deco vibes prevail here – 

a look that's reflected in all the hotel's 

rooms and suites. Relax in style in 

either the Vice Presidential Suite or 

the Presidential Suite, each offering 

their own set of luxuries including a 

complimentary breakfast in bed, butler 

service and club lounge access. 

THE FOOD 

Boasting not one, but two, in-house 

celebrity chef-led restaurants, this is a 

foodie's dream destination. Morimoto 

Dubai puts you right in the middle of the 

action with a live teppanyaki counter 

that displays the Iron Chefs' trademark 

culinary style. BASTA! by David Myers 

serves up a little piece of Italy with each 

dish, while Bhar will spice up your palate 

with its delectable Arabian fare. 

THE ACTIVITIES 

When the clock strikes five, Evenings at 

Renaissance kicks off, inviting guests to 

sip signature drinks over a programme of 

interesting events. If you're not in a social 

mood, indulge yourself to a relaxing 

massage while soaking up the panoramic 

views of the city at Six Senses Spa. With 

six different treatment suites, each 

dedicated to a different sense, you'll leave 

in a haze of peace and tranquillity. 

To find out more, call +971 4 512 5554 or renaissancedowntowndubai.com 


ISN’T IT JUST SUITE TO BE HERE AT RENDXB? 

Rediscover luxury in one of our indigenously designed suites while 

overlooking Dubai’s unique views. 

For more information visit renaissancedowntowndubai.com 

or email rendxb.sales@renhotels.com 

RENAISSANCE DOWNTOWN HOTEL, DUBAI 

Marasi Drive Business Bay Dubai PO Box 191984 United Arab Emirates. t: +971.4.512.5555

WORLD TRAVELLER X ADDRESS SKY VIEW 

STAYCATION 

Address Sky View 

This sleek new property places you at the heart of bustling Downtown Dubai 


With an exclusive address on Sheikh 

Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, this 

luxury hotel stands proud with its duo 

of glistening skyscrapers connected by 

a sky bridge. Floor-to-ceiling windows 

offer stunning views of the city skyline 

towards the Arabian Gulf. Book yourself 

into a Club Room Burj View for coveted 

Burj Khalifa vistas and a front row 

seat to The Dubai Fountain. 

THE FOOD 

Tuck into an array of delicious 

platters that put a refreshing twist on 

international cuisine at The Restaurant. 

Its cosy ambience, personalised service 

and warm décor will make you feel right 

at home. Meanwhile, the resort's pool 

lounge, Deck TOO, offers the perfect 

excuse to nibble at an expertly curated 

menu of antipasti and aperitivo while 

admiring the marvellous cityscape. 


The showstopper here is the picturesque 

rooftop infinity pool, which is sure to 

blow up your Instagram. Swim a lap, grab 

a refreshing drink from the pool bar and 

soak up the views. Better yet, stop by The 

Spa for a pampering session. Located 

on the 54 th floor, choose from a range 

of soothing treatments and feel your 

tension ease away as Dubai's glittering 

skyline lulls you to a serene bliss. 

To find out more, call +971 4 873 8888 or visit addresshotels.com 


YOUR stage among the stars, 

Address Sky View, a panoramic city viewpoint, presents 

spectacular vistas of Dubai’s finest sights. Every luxury hotel 

room and suite, every enthralling dining experience, and every 

event space lifts you to heights inspired by the Sky Deck 

shimmering under the stars. Welcome to your stage in the sky. 

Discover a marvellous new viewpoint with #ADHskyview 

BOOK NOW 

TOLL FREE (UAE) 800 ADDRESS 

ADDRESSHOTELS.COM

WORLD TRAVELLER X THE ST. REGIS ABU DHABI 

STAYCATION 


Tailor-made luxury meets exquisite experiences at this palatial retreat 


Stay close to all the action as the Formula 

1 World Championship roars its way 

back to the city this month. After an 

exhilarating day of Grand Prix action, 

retire to the comfort of your Superior 

Room, or spacious suite, and enjoy the 

royal treatment with around-the-clock 

butler service. Guests also receive access 

to Nation Riviera Beach Club and a 

complimentary breakfast at The Terrace. 

THE FOOD 

Delve into a delicious spread of local 

delicacies while being suspended 255 

metres up in the air on the highest 

active helipad in the Middle East. 

Making a grand return this month (on 9 

and 16 Nov), the Helipad Sunset Supper 

invites 20 lucky guests to dine amongst 

the clouds, enjoy live performances and 

take in some of the most sensational 

views the city has to offer. 


Introducing a new look and feel, Nation 

Riviera Beach Club has refreshed 

its main pool with an exciting new 

design that highlights the hotel's 

scenic landscape. Perfect the art of 

relaxation and soak up the sun in your 

private cabana, do a few laps in the 

temperature-controlled swimming 

pool or enjoy a walk on the pristine 

private stretch of white sand. 

To find out more, call +971 2 694 4444 or stregisabudhabi.com 


Abu Dhabi’s Finest Urban Resort 

The St. Regis Abu Dhabi soars to new heights of splendor and service beyond 

expectation. Located at the vibrant heart of Abu Dhabi, you will be transferred 

through a luxurious underpass to a 200 metre stretch of pristine beach, overlooking 

the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf and the newly renovated Nation Riviera Pool. 

Enjoy the exquisite service of a truly unique experience at the Nation Riviera Beach 

Club and the finest address in the city. 


Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates t. +971 2 694 4444 stregisabudhabi.com 

©2019 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All names, marks and logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates. 

Stay exquisite at more than 40 St. Regis hotels and resorts worldwide. 

@stregishotels

WORLD TRAVELLER X DUKES THE PALM, A ROYAL HIDEAWAY HOTEL 

STAYCATION 

Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel 

English charm is the hallmark of this Palm Jumeirah hotel 


Here, every detail has been 

carefully thought out to perfect the 

quintessentially British style – from 

the checkerboard-tiled floors lining the 

lobby to the Floris amenities in all the 

guestrooms. If you're looking for a home 

away from home, consider a studio or 

an apartment where you'll drift off to 

the sound of the sea and wake up to the 

dreamy views of the Arabian Gulf. 

THE FOOD 

Order it shaken, not stirred at Dukes 

bar, where expert mixologists fix you 

signature drinks from a tableside trolley. 

Meanwhile, Great British Restaurant 

serves modern British fare that tastes 

as good as it looks. If you're in the mood 

for something spicy, Khyber's flavourpacked 

dishes stand out, with highlights 

including the tandoor-cooked baby lamb 

leg and green masala pomfret. 


Swim a lap or sit back and enjoy a 

refreshing drink by the infinity pool 

that blends seamlessly with the city's 

glittering skyline. The Dukesy Kids' club 

will keep your little ones occupied while 

you sweat out your daily cardio at the 

fitness studio. Later, glam up at the hair 

and beauty salon for an evening out. 

With many of the city's top attractions 

nearby, the City of Gold awaits discovery. 

To find out more, call +971 4 455 1111 or royalhideaway.com 


WORLD TRAVELLER X BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA 

Say “I do” 

Capturing the romance and tranquillity of the desert, Bab Al Shams 

Desert Resort & Spa will ensure your special day is picture-perfect 

Tucked away in Dubai’s majestic 

rolling dunes, Bab Al Shams 

Desert Resort & Spa is an 

Arabian Nights fantasy plucked from 

your imagination and a coveted location 

for a destination wedding. Whether 

you're dreaming of an intimate 

ceremony or a lively celebration 

surrounded by family and friends, 

this palatial resort will turn your 

wedding dreams into reality. Here’s 

the pick of our favourite venues… 

THE GREAT OUTDOORS 

Exchange vows amid the natural 

wonders of the desert at Sunset Point. 

The alfresco venue offers a simple 

setting that showcases the stunning 

surroundings and can hold up to 

240 of your nearest and dearest. You 

could also opt for the Masala Rooftop 

Lounge, which is ideal for star-lit 

ceremonies, with its panoramic view 

of the resort that's best enjoyed while 

sitting down to a sumptuous feast. 

Meanwhile, couples who want to go 

all out with the invitations should 

book the Arena. True to its name, the 

venue sprawls over 20,000 square 

metres and can fit up to 6,000 guests. 

AN INTIMATE AFFAIR 

Adorned with lush foliage, Al Shurouq 

and the Garden Café offers total privacy 

with its Arabesque furnishings, elegant 

floral centerpieces and personalised 

details. Alternatively, contemporary 

elegance meets old-world charm at Le 

Dune, while Falcon Courtyard beckons 

hopeless romantics with its oriental 

appeal and secluded setting that 

accommodates a modest 30 guests. 

A CULTURAL TWIST 

Fascinate your guests by holding 

your ceremony at the unique setting 

of Al Hadheerah Restaurant. With 

a traditional tanoura and belly 

dancing performances, as well 

as a live Arabian band, you'll have 

everyone on their feet in minutes. 

If you’re seeking something more 

private, Al Hadheerah Rooftop can 

accommodate up to 70 guests and 

offers a serene ambiance with its 

sweeping views of the Arabian desert. 

From crafting colourful floral 

arrangements to creating a bespoke 

wedding cake and menu, the resort 

offers an array of services and packages 

to make your big day unforgettable. 

Find out more at babalshams.com 

Sunset Point 

68 worldtravellermagazine.com 


RARE IS REAL 

Nestled among the rolling dunes of Dubai, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is a haven of rustic charm, 

luxurious Arabian hospitality, benchmark-setting facilities and a captivating desert environment. 

This oasis of pure indulgence offers guests an array of sumptuous dining experiences 

from Italy to India and the Middle East, desert activities including falconry, 

camel riding and archery, rejuvenating therapies at the award-winning Satori Spa 

as well as facilities designed to ensure that every moment is one to be cherished for years to come. 

babalshams.com 

/babalshamshotel /babalshamshotel /babalshamshotel 

DESERT RESORT & SPA - DUBAI

WORLD TRAVELLER X LE MERIDIEN AL AQAH BEACH RESORT 

STAYCATION 

Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort 

Family-friendly fun abounds at this action-packed reatreat 


Nestled between the Hajar Mountains 

and the glistening Indian Ocean, this 

coastal resort is all about family-fun with 

great deals on offer. Watch the sun set 

from your sea facing room with your little 

munchkins in tow (two children below 12 

years old can stay for free). After a good 

night's sleep, start your day fresh and tuck 

into a delectable breakfast of champions 

(rates are inclusive of breakfast). 

THE FOOD 

Embark on a culinary journey and relish 

the taste of different world cuisines at 

any of the hotel's eight restaurants and 

bars. East-meets-West signature recipes 

fill Views with aromas that are sure to 

make your mouth water. Alternatively, lap 

up the cool sea breeze as Gonu serves up 

seafood fresh from the ocean. Better yet, 

head southeast and delight in the Asian 

flavours of Thai Indian fare at Taste. 


Unleash your wild side and step up to 

the Al Aqah Challenge, the first ever 

obstacle rope course on the East Coast. 

Whether ziplining, climbing or abseiling, 

it's going be a tough one to crack so bring 

your A game. Meanwhile, beach lovers 

can simply lounge on the hotel's private 

stretch of sand or take a dive into the 

crystal waters of the Arabian Gulf to 

unveil a world of marine wonders. 

To find out more, call +971 9 244 9000 or visit marriott.com 


WORLD TRAVELLER X DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL & SUITES 

STAYCATION 

Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites 

For a longer stay, make yourself at home in a stylish suite overlooking Dubai Marina 


If you're planning on staying in Dubai 

for a while, or simply appreciate the 

convenience of having your own kitchen, 

the stylish suites at this four-star 

property in Dubai Marina are just the 

ticket. There are one-, two- and threebedroom 

suites available, each featuring 

a modern kitchen and a sleek marble 

bathroom with an oversized tub. Room 

service is available around the clock. 

THE FOOD 

Jump-start your day with a delectable 

menu of international dishes at Counter 

Culture Café, which also offers free Wi-Fi 

so you can stay well connected to the 

wider world. For hearty British fare with 

a twist, The Croft is the place to go. On 

the 52nd floor, Observatory Bar & Grill is 

where you should head for classic dishes 

and crafted drinks, with panoramic views 

of the waterfront. 


Your fitness regime needn't suffer, as all 

guests enjoy access to the fitness centre. 

When you want to unwind, head to Saray 

Spa, which offers a range of pampering 

treatments, such as the signature Saray 

Arabic Coffee Awakener, which includes 

a body scrub, mask and massage. Get out 

and explore Dubai, including Jumeirah 

Beach Residence and Dubai Media City, 

which are just a short stroll away. 

To find out more, call +971 4 319 4000 or visit marriottharbourdubaidining.com 


CREATE 

SPECIAL 

MOMENTS 

WITH US. 

Standing tall in the heart of 

Dubai Marina, featuring 

incomparable panoramic views 

of the city, combine the best 

of all worlds with luxurious 

accommodation, three 

contemporary dining 

destinations and a blissful 

caravanserai-inspired, Saray Spa. 

DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL & SUITES 

KING SALMAN BIN ABDULAZIZ AL SAUD STREET 

DUBAI MARINA, PO BOX 66662, DUBAI, UAE 

T. 971.4.319.4000 | DUBAIMARRIOTTHARBOURHOTEL.COM 

Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites 

@marriottharbour

1 

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THROUGH 

THE LENS 

Great Ocean Road, 

Australia 

I've always dreamt of visiting 

Australia with my family one 

day, to buy a Jeep, get out on the 

open road and discover what this 

beautiful country has to offer. So 

when my husband and I decided 

to travel full time, we knew it was 

the right moment to fulfil our 

fantasy. When we drove down 

this particular road, I just knew 

it would look stunning from 

above. We immediately pulled 

over, took out the drone and fired 

that baby up in the sky. I asked my 

husband to keep driving the Jeep 

up and down the road a few times 

while I tried to capture its true 

beauty. I love the effect of the four 

layers: crashing blue waves, rocky 

coastline, green mountains and 

the winding road. 

Travel and photography fan 

Heleen Van Assche loves to 

travel because: "It makes us 

richer in every possible way." 

Follow her at @the_global_ 

wizards, theglobalwizards.com 

EMAIL US YOUR BEST 

TRAVEL PHOTOS 

in high-res jpeg format, along 

with the stories behind them to 

habiba@hotmedia.me and you 

may end up being featured 

on this page 


Now win! 

DIGITAL 

BE OUR TRAVEL 

COMPANION 

Stay up-to-date with all that’s 

happening on our social channels 

and join in the conversation by 

sharing your experiences. Here’s 

where you can find us… 

@worldtravellerme 

Double tap our dreamy 

destination shots and tag 

us in your images for a chance to 

feature on our wall. 

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Stay up to date with travel 

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@WTravellerME 

Make the most of your 

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#WorldTravellerME 

A two-night stay for two at JA The 

Resort in Dubai 

This five-star beachfront hideaway (Dubai's largest resort) could be yours for 

two nights on a bed and breakfast basis. With an 800-metre stretch of golden 

sand, a world-class golf course, horseback riding and watersports aplenty on 

offer, plus lots more, it's a coveted holiday spot for families. It's home to three 

properties – JA Beach Hotel, JA Palm Tree Court and JA Lake View Hotel – with 

stand-out restaurants, including Kinara by Vikas Khanna. To find out more and 

to enter, visit worldtravellermagazine.com/win. (Terms & conditions apply). 

TRAVEL INSPO AT YOUR FINGERTIPS 

Let our travel news and round-ups, available to read on our website, 

inspire your next trip… 

1The Knowledge. 

Read our handy 

how-tos, from 

getting to grips with 

travel insurance to 

helping kids beat jet 

lag, and more. 

2Staycations. 

Take a peek 

inside these top 

hotels and resorts on 

your doorstep, and 

then book your next 

mini break. 

3Insider guides. 

Check out our 

in-the-know 

travel edits of some 

of the most popular 

holiday destinations 

on our radar. 


Suite dreams 

Our monthly finish with a flourish, delving into a suite 

that has a character and style all of its own 

CORNER JUNIOR SUITE 

Carlton Hotel St. Moritz, Switzerland 

Be in the pink inside this rose-tinted suite, which teams its distinctive décor with a panoramic 

view of Lake St. Moritz and the snow-capped Swiss Alps. Located on the fifth floor of this 

boutique hotel, the 75-square-metre suite features a corner sofa under the pitch of the roof, 

providing a cosy spot in which to unwind. Plus, with its luxurious dressing room and walk-in 

wardrobe, this elegant hideaway is ideal for fashion mavens in search of the perfect fit. 


Inspiration. Expertly crafted. 

Comprising two iconic towers, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is centrally located beside the 

Dubai Water Canal and offers a spectrum of facilities and services for a seamless experience. 

The hotel features: 1,608 Luxurious Guest Rooms and Suites, Over 15 Award-Winning Restaurants 

and Lounges, Saray Spa featuring Traditional Hammams, A Dead Sea Floatation Pool and 

17 Treatment Rooms, State-of-the-Art Health Club and Fitness facilities, 8,000 sqm of spectacular 

Meeting Spaces. 

JW Marriott® Marquis® Hotel Dubai 

jwmarriott.com/DXBJW 

Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE | T +971.4.414.0000 | jwmarriottmarquisdubai.com

World Traveller November 2019

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