Higher temperatures, the long school break, and somewhat slower office days can only mean one thing — it is summertime in the Middle East and it is the perfect time to travel — locally, regionally or even abroad. But before the trip comes the planning, which is one of the best parts of the experience. And with the summer months just on the horizon, it is time to start thinking about where to go and what to do. Decisions, decisions.
Whether you prefer a hassle-free staycation centered on wellness or adventurous family activities, or you are looking to add stamps to your passport, IHG Resorts and Hotels has got you covered. With its portfolio of 6,000 hotels across 18 brands in more than 100 countries, IHG Hotels and Resorts follows a “no two guests are ever the same” mantra, ensuring each experience is carefully curated to each visitor.
Indecisive and don’t know where to begin your planning? Here are five standout options from IHG Hotels and Resorts, whether you want to venture internationally or relax in near-by familiar bliss.
Wellness with a side of adventure at Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman
Everyone deserves a wellness retreat with a side of adventure at least once a year to restore the mind, body and soul. Look no further than Six Senses Zighy Bay, a village-inspired resort situated at the heart of Oman’s Musandam Peninsula — a secluded spot much-loved for its contrasting rugged mountains on one side and its long private stretch of beach on the other.
With two Arabic style hammams, an ice cave, skin purifying and soothing spa treatments, outdoor sunrise yoga and more, this wellness sanctuary is ideal for those who want to pause, reflect and relax. The resort goes a step further and will design a wellness program customized for you, created through a non-invasive wellness screening facility and the hotel’s smart tech and dedicated wellness experts.
Apart from relaxation, the resort also offers adventurous adrenalin-spiking activities such as paragliding (launching oneself into the sky from 960 feet), as well as snorkelling and more.
Dining is also on point. Indulge in traditional Bedouin dining, as well as contemporary local and international culinary experiences during your stay.
Family first at InterContinental Durrat Al-Riyadh Resort and Spa
Staycations or local micro-trips are a great way to take the entire family away on a break without the stresses of air travel, check-ins, and overweight baggage. IHG Hotels and Resorts has made this very much possible with a range of luxury hotels across Saudi Arabia.
The recently opened InterContinental Durrat Al-Riyadh Resort and Spa is distinctive, offering local Saudi residents and their families a luxurious and private family escape among a 154,000-square-meter lush green oasis.
Adults can relax and replenish with therapeutic massages or treatments from the largest 5-star resort spa facility in Riyadh and one of the best in the Kingdom.
Kids are also well catered to. There are unique activities such as the hotel’s in-house kids’ club with a ball pool, toy horses, and thrilling slides. Not to mention a tennis course and a fantastic space dedicated to mini-golf — the first miniature golf course in all of Saudi Arabia.
Impressed yet? The property also boasts 18 indoor and outdoor swimming pools, featuring an infinity edge pool.
Fall in love all over again at Carlton Cannes, a Regent hotel
Been eyeing that “once-in-a-lifetime” romantic trip? If you are feeling all things croissants, pretty streets and local flavors, then look no further than the exquisite Carlton Cannes, a Regent hotel.
Located on the French Riviera’s La Croisette Boulevard, this new Regent hotel is a luxury destination featuring charming high-ceilings, Côte d’Azur facing rooms, decorated with artisan fabrics and modern luxury detailing.
For a forever memorable perfect escape, you can charter a sunset sail, reserve a glorious helicopter tour over the coastline, or simply take a stroll along the famed boulevard’s designer boutiques. The hotel’s “experience agents” are always at your service to add magic to your stay in any way possible.
Shop or chill at Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown
Just five minutes away from Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa, Hotel Indigo is on the doorstep of Dubai’s most vibrant shopping destination and bustling boulevard. Here you can enjoy your break just the way you like it — whether that is keeping your fitness routine in check at the hotel’s gym and 25-meter infinity pool, relaxing with chill beats and shisha at the Orange Feels Bar and Shisha Lounge, exploring the canal walkways, or simply soaking up the glorious sunset from the hotel’s floor to ceiling views of the marvelous cityscape, all this while relaxing at its carefully curated rooms, designed with funk and pearl.
Furry friends are welcomed here, so bring your pet for a vacation of its own. There are also lip-smacking culinary experiences including Emirati, Levantine and Anatolian cuisines.
Live like a Londoner at Kimpton Fitzroy London
If you are a history lover wanting to spend your summer at places that will turn back time (with a very modern touch), the Kimpton Fitzroy London is for you.
Retire to rooms filled with dreamy art pieces and unwind in lounges adorned with historic, ancient design flair. But there is also an array of modern-day needs thrown into the mix — including a fitness center, private dining experiences, as well as a British bar and grill where dishes are prepared from ethically sourced produce. There are also pet-friendly amenities (inclusive of stay charges).
The hotel’s outstanding “Stay Human Concierge” will help you curate your very own personalized London adventure, which could include a leisurely picnic in Russell Square Gardens, private tours of the Tower of London and The British Museum, or even a Paddington afternoon tea bus tour.
Get planning soon and remember the IHG One Rewards program offers a suite of member benefits including discounted rates and promotions, late check-out, suite upgrades or food and drink discounts. Rewards points can be used across IHG’s growing portfolio — each of which provides a unique experience, from islandic or beachside escapes to restorative wellness getaways, luxury retreats, striking cityscape stays and much more.
