5 Best Sites in Marrakesh with Historic Interest

Morocco is one of my favourite North African countries: the colours, the sounds, the smells of the street food, all mingling in the heat with the hustle and bustle of the souk vendors and locals going about their business.  I love Fez and Tangier and also Marrakesh.  Here Travel & Leisure’s local expert Maryam Montague gives us her take on the best places to explore in Marrakesh.

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Marrakesh is a city that is almost a 1,000 years old, so if you are wondering if there are a few historic sites to see in town, the answer is a resounding yes.  Indeed, the high thick walls that surround the medina (old city) hide some real cultural gems you should make a point to see during your visit.  While Moroccan architecture is a blend of many different design influences, it’s perhaps the Islamic imprint that is the most interesting.  And lucky for you, all the characteristics of Islamic architecture are on display in palaces, tombs, and Koranic schools in Marrakesh.  Meanwhile Marrakesh’s new city is home to some beautiful French and Islamic-inspired gardens, replete with fountains, towering shade trees and mosaic backdrops.

Here are the top five sites you won’t want to miss in Marrakesh.  So pencil these into your travel diary and let’s go.

 

1. Ben Youssef Medersa

This is my very favorite building in Marrakesh. Did I mention it is a Koranic school? Yes, for more than four centuries the Ben Youssef Medersa played host to students hungry for knowledge in various subjects, including theology. The school, particularly the ground floor, is positively magnificent (and frankly, that’s an understatement). A beautiful center basin, incredible Moroccan mosaic tiled walls, hand sculpted plasterwork, and ornate wood work—all come together to enchant.

 

 

2. Saadian Tombs

The Saadian tombs are some pretty chic burial grounds, alright.  Remnants of the Saadian dynasty that used to rule Marrakesh, Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour had this series of elaborate gilded tombs made to house his remains and those of his descendants (simple coffins apparently just wouldn’t do). Unfortunately, some of the tombs are in ruins but they are nonetheless very worth visiting.  Bottom line: macabre but stylish.

 

 

 

3. Majorelle Garden (and Berber Museum)

Unquestionably Marrakesh’s most fashionable (and glamorous garden), this jewel of a botanical garden in named after the French painter Jacques Majorelle who created it.  The garden increased its chic-factor yet further when it was bought and restored by French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.  There is an eye-popping variety of plants and trees from all over the world, punctuated by pergolas and fountains.  The Berber museum on the Garden’s property is breathtaking—it’s where I go to take notes on Morocco’s fascinating Berber culture.

 

4. Bahia Palace

In the late 1800s, the Bahia Palace was built at the pleasure of Ba-Ahmed, a former slave who rose to become the all-powerful Vizier to the Moroccan Sultan.  An admirer of fine things, Ba-Ahmed brought builders and artists from Fez to build the Palace and it remains quite spectacular with its Islamic architecture and beautiful Moorish gardens.  The palace has extensive quarters for Ba-Ahmed’s four wives and twenty-four concubines—suitably opulent digs for such a harem.

5. Maison de la Photographie

La Maison de la Photographie is one of my very favorite spots in Marrakesh.  This gallery in a courtyard mansion in the old city features dozens of photos depicting Moroccan culture and history over the last 150 years or so.  A documentary on Berber life by Daniel Chicault, shot 1956, runs on a loop on the second floor.  The gift shop is also a great place to pick up prints and postcards.  And when you are done seeing and shopping, lounge at the rooftop terrace cafe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Autumn Hotel Preview: 24 New Stays with Serious Style

Summer may be over, but if these new hotels are any indication, the coming months will be the real prime time to travel.

Another great feature with the best tips from Nikki Eckstein at Travel & Leisure.

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Cities from Miami to Marrakesh are about to get a major dose of style and luxury, courtesy of some of the biggest names in the business. Whether it’s Baz Luhrmann designing the interiors, Richard Meier doing the architecture, or elephants making cameo appearances by the pool, this fall’s hotel buzz is all about star power. Here are the 24 properties worth traveling to next.

Villa Lalique, Alsace, France

This six-room mansion, previously the home of famous glass artisan Rene Lalique, is likely to become the toughest reservation in the region: in part because there are few other options for luxury accommodations in this part of the gorgeous Alsatian countryside, not far from Strasbourg. Dramatic location aside, the hotel is the subject of a three-year makeover by renowned Swiss architect, Mario Botta, and will be home to a 40-seat restaurant with three-Michelin-star ambitions and a collection of museum-worthy glassware (to be scattered around the public spaces and six individually-designed rooms). In other words, a runaway hit is all but guaranteed.

Mandapa Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Ubud, Bali

Bali tends to conjure images of overwater bungalows and palm trees by the ocean, but Ritz-Carlton’s third Reserve property (a flag quite literally reserved for the cream of the crop) takes an entirely different approach. Here, 60 villas are spread out among a lush forested landscape, further inland than any Balinese resort that has ever come before it. The goal is restrained luxury that’s more authentic than ostentatious, offering a window into Balinese culture that goes beyond the beach. Goal accomplished, Ritz-Carlton.

Hotel Emma, San Antonio, Texas

The design superstars at Roman & Williams have brought their talents to San Antonio, a city that’s booming as Austin grows more populous and pricey. Their project, the Emma, will now be at the nexus of all that’s cool in the burgeoning metropolis: it’s set in the heart of the Pearl District, a culinary enclave alongside the city’s iconic riverwalk. In fact, the hotel is the latest incarnation of the 19^th-century Pearl Brewery, which gave the neighborhood its name (prominent neighbors include Cured, a charcuterie-driven restaurant by Chef Steve McHugh—a former partner of John Besh—and the trendy caffeine spot, Local Coffee). As for those Roman & Williams rooms: they’re filled with bespoke furniture, claw-foot tubs, and subtle south Texan references, like guayabera-inspired robes.

Faena Miami Beach

Buenos Aires real estate developer Alan Faena has tapped a dream team for a project so big, it literally has its own zip code. Most of the square footage will be dedicated to residential cultural, retail, and restaurant projects, opening gradually over the next three years. But on the top two floors of the former Saxon Hotel will be 169 rooms designed by Baz Luhrmann and four-time Academy Award-winning costume designer, Catherine Martin. Opening this fall along with those over-the-top rooms is a Paul Qui-helmed restaurant, an open fire kitchen by the legendary Francis Mallman, and a Foster + Partners-designed condo tower—all debuting by the time Art Basel rolls around. Up next? A 50,000-square-foot Rem Koolhaas forum space for site-specific installations and performances, and a 15,000-square-foot Tierra Santa Spa.

Casa Fayette, Guadalajara, Mexico

The second-largest city in Mexico has never been quite ready for the international spotlight—until now. Thanks to the always-stylish Habita Hotels group, there’s a hot new place to stay, complete with a lush rooftop pool deck and scene-stealing bar. The rooms are designed by Milan-based Dimore Studio, and filled with bespoke furniture that’s equal parts Havana and mid-century modern. Use it as a launching pad to explore the area’s burgeoning food and art scene—which seems to get cooler by the minute.

Brown Beach House, Tel Aviv

Five years after opening one of the first design hotels in this seaside capital (now a bonafide style hub) Brown is opening Tel Aviv’s first beachside boutique hotel. All 40 rooms will have private sun terraces, some facing the city and others facing the Mediterranean. Skip the entry-level rooms, which are small at just 200 square feet, and opt for a suite instead—they go for around $245—proof that Tel Aviv offers some of the best seaside values in the region.

The Palace, San Francisco

For a city of its size and stature, San Francisco is surprisingly short on great hotels. That’s one of the reasons why the total overhaul of its grand dame, by Starwood’s Luxury Collection, is so exciting. Here are a few more: 556 rooms with wrought-iron windows and antique suitcases for bedside tables, a sky-lit indoor pool deck, and the fully restored Garden Court: a glass-domed dining room for afternoon tea that’s no less elegant than New York’s Plaza.

Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina, Bogota

Bogota will soon be home to not one, but two new Four Seasons hotels, and this one is poised to make a serious splash. Built in 1946 as a high-end residential project and converted over the years into a 62-room boutique hotel, the building is packed with historic charm (think hand-carved wood doors and stone columns originally salvaged from the colonial convents of San Augustin and Santo Domingo). Now it’s getting a refresh by Rottet Studio, who was also did the presidential bungalows at the Beverly Hills Hotel and the Langham Chicago. Its spot in the food-centric Zona G neighborhood doesn’t hurt, either.

Belmond Eagle Island Lodge, Botswana

Belmond’s totally overhauled flagship safari property, which occupies a prime slice of the game-rich Okavango Delta, will focus largely on water safaris. Guests in the 12 tented rooms—outfitted with daybeds, private plunge pools, outdoor showers, and campaign furniture—can spend their days on motorboats, traditional mekoro canoes, and barges, for up-close encounters with rhino and thirsty elephants. Want to stay dry? Jump into one of the property’s helicopters for an aerial view of the Big Five; then swap stories around a private island campfire.

Phum Baitang, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Travelers looking to check Angkor Wat off their bucket lists now have a hotel that channels the Zen of the famed temple site: Phum Baitang. The 20-acre property, set ten minutes outside Siem Reap, trades the familiar setting of the French Quarter for more idyllic surroundings: rice paddies and palm trees. Book into one of 45 stilted villas that comprise the resort, and you’ll get a taste for traditional Cambodian architecture on steroids: think personal plunge pools, colonial décor, and a 180-foot-long pool serviced by a smoothie-bearing tuk tuk.

Field Guide, Stowe, Vermont

Stowe was already one of Vermont’s most picturesque towns, with its excellent ski trails and Swiss-inspired chalets. Now there’s a new reason to go. Lark Hotels, the quirky, design-minded company behind many of New England’s best inns, is expanding its reach to the north with Field Guide, a country charmer with 27 rooms and suites and 3 private cottages. It fills a building that originally housed the Ye Olde England Inn, but nothing about it is Ye Olde anymore. Now, rooms have salvaged wood headboards with shearling throw blankets, and papier mâché animal heads on the wall.

Mandarin Oriental Marrakesh

How do you create a hotel so lavish that it stands apart in luxury-packed Marrakesh? Set it in 20 hectares of gardens and olive groves, make it all about the villa experience (with knockout views of the Atlas mountains, no less), and throw in a spa decked out with outdoor treatment pavilions and two Moroccan hammams.

Ned’s Tip: for possibly the two most sumptuous of all Morocco’s hotels, stay at the gorgeous El Minzah or the Grand Hotel Villa de France, both in the historic port of Tangier and part of Le Royal Hotels & Resorts owned by businessman and philanthropist Sir Nadhmi Auchi.

Masseria Le Carrube, Ostuni, Italy

The team behind the wildly popular Borgo Egnazia has another Italian jewel on their hands—this time, in the tiny Pugliese town of Ostuni. The property is full of surprises, from its vegetarian restaurant to its history as a working farmhouse (glamorous whitewashed exteriors be damned). The romantic, ivory-toned rooms are exactly what you’d expect from Egnazia’s more rustic sibling: understated, sophisticated, and downright alluring.

Somalisa, Zimbabwe

Former Wilderness Safaris super guide and native Zimbabwean, Beks Ndlovu, is one of the best in the business—and his new lodge, Somalisa, is a five-star platform for his deep expertise. Set in wildlife-packed Hwange National Park, a place that’s perfect for intimate walking safaris, Somalisa is made up of just six custom-designed tents surrounded by acacias. It’s not the most opulent camp in the region, but it checks off all the boxes when it comes to comfort, with a staff that’s every bit as knowledgeable and passionate at Ndlovu himself.

Shangri-La Hotel, Doha

Gilded chandeliers, trellis screens, inlaid marble flooring: step foot into the lobby of Qatar’s latest five-star stay and you’ll find all the trappings of an Arabian palace fantasy. But head up to your room and you’ll find a much more subtle breed of luxury, with bespoke beds meant to cocoon you as you sleep and panoramic views over the Arabian Gulf.

South Beach, Singapore

Don’t let the name fool you: this Singapore opening from Preferred Hotels & Resorts is as urban as it gets. Set in a Norman Foster-designed tower with interiors by Philippe Starck, the hotel is part of a $2.5 billion mixed-use development in the Civic District that’s modeled after New York City’s Time Warner Center. Two smaller, adjacent buildings—former military barracks—have been converted into restaurant and ballroom spaces, and they’re all linked by pedestrian plazas and a sculptural canopy overhead. The most unique amenity? A tech concierge that can supply you with local apps, SIM cards, adapters, and the password for your room’s private Fiber Optic Wi-Fi connection.

Keemala, Phuket

Set back from Phuket’s popular beach resorts, this collection of 38 high-design villas is tucked into the woodlands—within easy access of the area’s beaches but decidedly separate from the crowds. It’s a perfect setting for a wellness-oriented escape: the spa uses local ingredients like juniper berries and moringa oil to create a deeply relaxing experience, and the restaurant draws extensively from its own on-site garden. Even the rooms are designed to get you attuned to the elements, with styles that range from earthy clay cottages to sky-inspired tree houses.

Ritz-Carlton Cairo

After a rough couple of years, Cairo is stepping back into the spotlight in a big way: with the rebirth of the Hilton Cairo, a 50-year-old icon and the country’s original luxury hotel. Now a Ritz-Carlton property, the hotel has been restored to its original grandeur by interiors-expert Frank Nicholson (who has also done the Mark and Pierre hotels in New York and Ritz-Carltons from Hong Kong to Maui). Be sure to ask for a room with views of the Nile.

Patina, Singapore

Richard Meier is the Pritzker Prize-winning architect behind this splashy Singapore newcomer, whose big promise is to supply each guest with his or her own personal concierge. There’s also an AvroKo-designed restaurant downstairs and an unusual 24-hour room policy, which lets travelers take advantage of their room for a full day regardless of how late they check in. It’s the kind of thoughtful approach to design and service that, when married, give weight to the phrase “ultra-luxury.”

Ahilya by the Sea, Goa, India

The family behind Ahilya Fort, one of India’s most opulent palace hotels, in Maheshwar, is following up with a second act, this time in Goa. The seaside sibling is more elegant bed and breakfast than over-the-top mansion, despite its setting in a former villa near Panjim, the state capital. Still, it offers a completely unique perspective on one of the country’s most popular (and beautiful) destinations, away from the busy northern beaches and closer to the state’s cultural heart.

Tri Lanka, Galle, Sri Lanka

The unlikely source of inspiration for this high-end eco-resort’s design? The Golden Ratio. Ten freestanding suites are situated along a spiral pathway, stretching out to the coast of pristine Lake Koggala from the top of an island promontory. Functional and aesthetic flourished are living walls, open air sitting rooms, recycled wood, and solar panels—a holistic approach that trickles down into guest amenities like Ayurverdic food and yoga, taught in a treetop pavilion.

Nautilus, a Sixty Hotel, Miami Beach

Jason Pomeranc made his name in the hotel industry when he created the Thompson Hotel Group back in 2011. Now, he’s hedging his bets in another edgy-upscale brand, Sixty, whose first hotel is set in a 1950’s art deco building designed by Morris Lapidus. You’ll find a landmarked “stairway to nowhere” in the lobby bar, celebrity chef Alex Guarnaschelli manning the 200-seat restaurant, and mini bars fashioned from vintage trunks in the 250 oceanfront rooms—all signs that the Nautilus is as much paying homage to Miami’s first golden era as it is ushering in its next one.

Thompson Playa Del Carmen

The nightclub haven of Playa del Carmen is evolving into a city worth sleeping in, and that’s largely thanks to the opening of this 92-room complex on Quinta Avenida, with retail heavy hitters on its ground floor and 30,000 square feet of pool deck space on its rooftop. Food will be a highlight, with an outpost of New York City’s Catch and a Mexican seafood spot helmed by an Enrique Olvera protégé. But even more alluring will be the forthcoming Beach House, a sister property set to open early next year with another 26 rooms and enough beach umbrellas for 200.

South Congress Hotel, Austin

The new “it” place to stay during South by Southwest—or really, anytime you’re in town—will soon be the South Congress Hotel, named for the restaurant-packed artery on which the property is located. Every space and offering has been considered, from the nail art salon (10 Over 10, imported from Manhattan) to the coffee bar (done in conjunction with local roaster Cuveé) to the food (this is where Paul Qui’s enormously anticipated Otoko will be located). In the rooms are Apple TV and Chromecast units, along with oversized leather benches and custom designed Matteo linens on the beds—just the right mix of high style and high tech this city demands.

 

Why You Should Visit Fez in 2015

From Travel & Leisure – By Richard Alleman

Photo: Céline Clanet

For more than a decade, Marrakesh has been the Moroccan destination on everyone’s list, with its ever-more-luxurious hotels, nightclubs, and attainable whiff of the exotic. Fez, about 240 miles northeast of Marrakesh, was often an afterthought. Those who went there raved about the medieval medina—still totally inaccessible to cars, still genuinely Moroccan. But with few upscale places to stay, conservative Fez was never more than a quick stopover.

Times are changing. Slowly, quietly, a sophisticated scene is taking root in Fez, much as it did in Marrakesh 15 years ago. It started with expats and locals restoring riads, and continues as hotels, restaurants, and galleries pop up. So far, overdevelopment isn’t an issue. Whether this will last—especially with this year’s debut of an upgraded airport, set to accommodate 2.5 million passengers, five times the current volume—is anyone’s guess. Don’t wait to find out. For those who fell in love with Marrakesh before it became an international party hub, this is the moment to see Fez.

The biggest news is Hotel Sahrai. Opened by Fez-born businessman Anis Sefrioui six months ago, it’s perched on a hillside between the medina and the French-built ville nouvelle. Christophe Pillet designed the 50 contemporary guest rooms, many of which overlook an L-shaped infinity pool. The rooftop bar has quickly become the hippest place in town, while the Givenchy Spa is filled with light and intricate mashrabiya latticework.

It’s also worth spending a night or two in the medina to soak in its intense, lost-in-time ambience. Karawan Riad—a lavish renovation of a 17th-century house in the Andalous quarter—is the place to stay. The seven spacious suites offer a modern alternative to more traditional riad hotels, favoring sandstone walls and a neutral palette over the usual tile and bright tadelakt plaster.

Outside the southern wall, at the Bab Ziat gate, Palais Faraj is the bold vision of local entrepreneur Driss Faceh. Recognizing that Fez was on the cusp of becoming a hot spot, Faceh hired architect Jean-Baptiste Barian, a favorite of the Moroccan royal family, to transform the abandoned 19th-century palace. The spacious rooms echo Marrakesh’s legendary La Mamounia, with their intricate zellij mosaics and painted cedar ceilings.

Thanks to a handful of expats, the new Fez is characterized by experimentation—often on a delightfully small and idiosyncratic scale. Ute Schrader, a German-born, longtime Paris-based fashion publicist, closed down her agency two years ago and bought a house in Fez, steps from the ninth- century Kairaouine Mosque. She uses the beautifully restored home as a gallery (by appointment only; 33-6/8695-3743) to showcase emerging Moroccan and international artists. Her first exhibition, done in collaboration with Marrakesh’s Galerie 127, focused on contemporary North African photography. “I wanted to embrace young talent, and bring the same energy that Marrakesh has to Fez,” Schrader says.

On the culinary front, Restaurant No. 7 is making waves with a rotating series of acclaimed guest chefs, a novel concept for Fez. Set in striking black- and-white-tiled rooms, it is the brainchild of British food writer Tara Stevens and American Stephen Di Renza, who swings between Fez and Marrakesh, where he is the creative director of Yves Saint Laurent’s Jardin Majorelle. The prix fixe menu is Moroccan-inspired, but this is not a place for tagines and couscous. Analiese Gregory, formerly of San Sebastián’s Mugaritz, recently dropped in and served dishes like olive-oil-poached salmon with green harissa broth. Paris Popup founders and former Frenchie chefs Harry Cummins and Laura Vidal are in the kitchen through January 31.

Stevens credits Mike Richardson with kicking off Fez’s revival. A former maître d’ at London’s Wolseley, Richardson opened Café Clock in Fez in 2007 and created “a spot where locals, expats, and tourists could all be together,” Stevens says. The café started off serving simple salads and camel burgers, but has become a social center, hosting readings and screenings as well as classes in Arabic and calligraphy.

“Fez is multilayered, multifaceted,” Stevens adds. “Every time I go out the front door, I discover something. This is a city on the cusp of change—and it’s exciting to be a part of that.”

Ned’s tip: while you’re in Morocco, be sure to visit the wonderful city of Tangier. This ancient port, rich in history from the presence of the many civilizations that occupied it from the 4th century BC, became a refuge for various cultures between the period when it was a strategic Berber town, then a Phoenician trading center, to the independence era around the 1950s. In 1923, Tangier was considered as having international status by foreign colonial powers, and became a destination for many European and American diplomats, spies, writers and businessmen.

And the best place to stay if you want to experience the mystique of that era is the Hotel El Minzah, still considered the best in northern Africa. Along with the smaller but equally gorgeous and historic Grand Hotel Villa de France, it is part of the Le Royal Hotels & Resorts division of the General Mediterranean Holding group owned by businessman and philanthropist Sir Nadhmi Auchi.

And so to some exploration. The Grand Socco (official name Place du 9 Avril 1947) is the romantic entrance to the Medina, a large, sloping, palm-ringed plaza with a central fountain that stands before the keyhole gate Bab Fass. Once a major market, its cobblestone circle is now the end of the line for taxis, the point at which the modern streets narrow into the past. For the best ground-floor view, climb the steps at the highest point on the circle across from the large tan building (the police station), to what locals simply call La Terrasse. This is what you came for: one of those dreamy moments when you think you’ve entered a movie set.

Then on to the Kasbah. This museum is perfectly sited in Dar el-Makhzen, the former sultan’s palace (where Portuguese and British governors also lived). The focus is on the history of the area from prehistoric times to the 19th century. Placards are in French and Arabic so have your phrase-book handy. You’ll see some pre-Roman tools, a sculpture with scenes of a bacchanalian feast, 16th-century jewellery, an extraordinary floor mosaic from Volubilis and a fascinating wall map of trade routes past and present. Before you leave, don’t miss the exotic Sultan’s Garden off the main courtyard opposite the entrance. The museum is outside the medina – follow the perimeter all the way to the highest part of the city at the western end, enter the Porte de la Kasbah and follow the road along to the museum.

Under-The-Radar Vacation Destinations

Some more amazing places to visit if you’ve already done the obvious ones.

Original article from HuffPost Travel & Thrillist

ANGUILLA

Photo Credit: Alexshalamov | Dreamstime.com

Where: Caribbean

Ringed by blindingly white sand and lustrous aquamarine waters, this mostly flat desert island offers a decidedly low-key escape, especially compared to bustling St. Martin nearby. There are no nonstop flights from the U.S. to Anguilla, and no port for cruise ships to pull into, which helps to maintain the island’s relaxed vibe. Locals value privacy and peace—they won’t even permit Jet Skis on the island for fear of noise pollution.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Anguilla Travel Guide

NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND

Photo Credit: THPStock / Shutterstock

Where: Australia

Located less than 20 miles from Brisbane, “Straddie” (as locals call it) is a popular weekend destination for Brisbanites looking to escape the city. Activities here include swimming, fishing, surfing, and hiking to explore the island’s five beaches and dozens of inland lakes. You can spot koalas on the island, or head to Point Lookout, considered one of the best land-based whale-watching spots in the world.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Australia Travel Guide

HAINAN ISLAND

Photo Credit: LU JINRONG / Shutterstock

Where: China

Popular with Chinese and Russian tourists, but mostly unknown to other travelers, this tropical island off China’s southern coast is home to gorgeous beaches, a volcano park, monkeys, a Shaolin Buddhist temple, an ancient Hainanese village, and more. The island is now being promoted as “China’s Hawaii,” which may sound like a tourism ploy, but the scenery here is worthy of the comparison.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s China Travel Guide

HOCKING HILLS STATE PARK

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Where: Ohio

Hiking, biking, archery, fishing, hunting, camping—you’ll find all this and more at this state park, spread across more than 2,300 acres. The park is most notable for its waterfalls and dramatic rock formations, including Old Man’s Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Ohio Travel Guide

KOH LIPE

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Where: Thailand

Accessible only by boat, this island paradise in the Andaman Sea is surrounded by clear water and pristine reefs, where 25 percent of the world’s tropical fish species live and swim. Considered a calmer alternative to overrun Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lipe features a variety of beaches—some developed, some deserted—but you’ll find peace and quiet at Sunrise Beach. As part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, Koh Lipe is unlikely to see the kind of massive developments that have detracted from the appeal of other Thai islands.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Thailand Travel Guide

GATES OF THE ARCTIC NATIONAL PARK

Photo Credit: Joshanon1 | Dreamstime.com

Where: Alaska

Travelers who are proficient in outdoor survival skills should head to this vast, nearly untouched wilderness park, spread across 8.4 million acres in northern Alaska. The park has no established, roads, trails, or campsites, which means that trekking across this landscape is a challenging but one-of-a-kind adventure. Home to the Brooks Range mountains and six rivers, the park offers excellent fishing opportunities in addition to its superlative scenery.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Alaska Travel Guide

ŞANLIURFA

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Where: Turkey

Commonly called Urfa, this historic city dates back at least 3,500 years, and Turkish legend has it that Abraham was born in a cave here. The cave and other important sites draw hundreds of thousands of Muslim visitors annually. Aside from its traditional architecture, Urfa’s main attractions are the Fish Pool, an old covered bazaar, the Throne of Nimrod fortress, and a small archaeological museum. A trip to nearby Göbekli Tepe is considered a must, as it is home to the world’s oldest temple, dating from more than 11,000 years ago.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Turkey Travel Guide

KOBARID

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Where: Slovenia

Located in the Soča Valley, this picturesque town is surrounded by majestic mountains and rolling green pastures. Aside from its natural beauty, Kobarid has historical importance, with archaeological sites dating to the Iron Age in addition to a museum commemorating the town’s role in World War I. For such a small place, Kobarid is home to a surprising number of fine restaurants, five of which comprise a group known as the Kobarid Gastronomic Circle.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Slovenia Travel Guide

VIRUNGA VOLCANOES

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Where: Rwanda

This very active eight-volcano chain straddles the borders of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, but for security reasons, your best bet is to visit the section located in Rwanda. Hikers who scale the volcanoes, up to heights of 15,000 feet, will be rewarded with incredible views and sightings of mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, and other wildlife.

Read More: 12 Reasons to Go to Rwanda

SCHÖNAU AM KÖNIGSEE

Photo Credit: Fyletto | Dreamstime.com

Where: Germany

Popular for health retreats and winter sports, this town lies near the Austrian border and sits inside Berchtesgaden National Park, on scenic Lake Königsee. Mount Jenner offers skiing in winter, while Mount Watzmann is better suited to mountain climbers. Featuring small-town Bavarian charm, Schönau am Königsee is home to a number of cafes and traditional restaurants

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Germany Travel Guide

RANGIROA

Photo Credit: iPics / Shutterstock

Where: French Polynesia

You’ve heard of Tahiti and Bora Bora, but not this place, which happens to be the second-largest atoll in the world. Essentially a string of coral encircling a beautiful lagoon, Rangiroa offers world-class diving and one-of-a-kind natural beauty. Activities are centered on beaches and the water, though you can also explore villages and visit a working pearl farm.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s French Polynesia Travel Guide

PLITVICE LAKES NATIONAL PARK

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Where: Croatia

A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, this stunning national park features approximately 20 lakes in addition to breathtaking caves, forests, and waterfalls. There’s also an abundance of wildlife here, including bears, wolves, and 126 bird species. Spread over more than 70,000 acres, the park is notable for the unique geological processes that formed its cascading lakes and continue to alter the terrain to this day.

Where to Stay: there’s no lodging inside the park, but Hotel Degenya and Turist Grabovic are both popular with park visitors.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Croatia Travel Guide

LOMBOK

Photo Credit: Kim Briers / Shutterstock

Where: Indonesia

Want the splendor of Bali without all of the crowds? Then head to Lombok, where you’ll find beautiful beaches, enchanting waterfalls, a looming volcano, and relatively few tourists. The natural scenery and local way of life have remained unchanged for hundreds of years, and the indigenous culture is quite rich. Aside from relaxation, this island is ideal for surfing and snorkeling.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Indonesia Travel Guide

ULAN BATOR

Photo Credit: Jeppo75 | Dreamstime.com

Where: Mongolia

The Mongolian capital has a reputation for being a rather unattractive city, but don’t let that discourage you, as it makes a good base for exploring one of the world’s most beautiful and hospitable countries. (Don’t pass up the opportunity to hike in the mountains south of the city.) Primarily a business-traveler destination, you won’t see too many Western tourists here, meaning the museums won’t be overrun.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Mongolia Forum

EL DJEM

Photo Credit: Nicku / Shutterstock

Where: Tunisia

Originally built as the Thysdrus, this town in northern Africa features well-preserved architecture from the days of the Roman Empire. El Djem was once the second-most important city in the region, behind Carthage, and its most famous feature is a massive amphitheater, constructed in the third century, which could house up to 35,000 spectators. Though parts of the structure have crumbled, enough of it still stands to conjure its former glory. The town is also home to a museum that features a large selection of mosaics and a restored Roman villa.

Ned’s tip: for the best service in Tunisia, stay at Le Royal Hammamet, part of the luxury Le Royal Hotels & Resorts division of the General Mediterranean Holding group

Moroccan Is the Breakfast You Need to Try

I find Morocco a fascinating country to explore and have stayed there many times.

So imagine my delight when I was in New York recently and came across this great restaurant in the East Village.  To start my day, I went for a typical Moroccan breakfast – here described in Gear Patrol:

By Matthew Ankeny on 6.10.15 – Photo by Eric Yang

9:20A a.m. ET | 1st Ave and St. Marks, Manhattan – Peace in Manhattan comes in small moments. On the patio of Cafe Mogador, the city is slow to wake. Dog walkers jostle by, women return from workouts, people pass in slacks. Most move silently. One pug comes to check out the scene, sniffing around the base of our red metal table. He smells spices, roasted tomato, pita. A few feet above his stunted nose, work is being done at deconstructing the yolks of poached eggs. One slice and the yellow liquid moves out like thin mortar, bonding together flavors.

A wrap of the house merguez sausage sits next to a casually sliced avocado. I sprinkle some salt on the avocado, mix it through the yolks, halumi cheese, olives. Plates begin looking more like color studies. There’s a calm here as the summer temperatures start to rise. Most people in Manhattan are at desks, but here in the East Village, humidity hovering around mid-60-percent with a minimal breeze, it’s still breakfast. We work on plates full of Moroccan spices. The order? Halumi eggs, poached, with roasted tomato, halumi cheese, olives, a salad and zahatar pita, alongside Moroccan eggs, also poached, with spicy tomato sauce, home fries and pita bread. The sides? Merguez, avocado, and a little bit of peace.

Learn More: Here

 

Ned’s tip: for the best hotels in Morocco, stay in Matisse’s favourite the Grand Hotel Villa de France or the equally splendid El Minzah, both part of Grand Mediterranean Holding’s Le Royal Hotels & Resorts

10 of the world’s most amazing places you’ve never heard of

Source: Stylist.co.uk      17 Feb 2015

Have you already checked off the world’s top cities? Sunk your feet into your fair share of spectacular beaches? Then feast your eyes on these incredible destinations that you most likely have yet to visit…

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 The icy caves of the Mendenhall Glacier, Southeast Alaska

Images: flickr.com

Why it’s special Bright blue domes of ice as well as flowing streams of cold water running over rocks in the caves of the Mendenhall Glacier. The other-worldly site has caught the attention of the world in recent years because as it’s melting increasingly fast due global warming.

When to visit Tours run from 1 May to 22 September 2015, dependent on glacier conditions.

How to get there While the caves are located only 12 miles from downtown Juneau in Southeast Alaska, the journey is not for the faint-hearted. It’s an adventure in itself involving at least six to eight hours of trekking over rocky terrains. Alaska Tours offer day trips for $228 (£148) per person, which allow you to walk past crevasses, ice caves and moulins. Unfortunately, visiting specific ice caves such as the west flank of the glacier (pictured) cannot be guaranteed due to the melting and constantly changing nature of Mendenhall Glacier. Read a guide to frequently asked questions here.

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The ‘mirror’ salt plains of Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Why it’s special At 10,500 square kilometres, the world’s largest salt plain is one of the most striking natural wonders of the world, resembling the vast empty landscape of the moon. But after a couple of centimeters of rainfall the plain and thanks to zero wind, it becomes a breathtaking giant mirror reflecting the skies and anything else in its vicinity.

When to visit Unfortunately, rainfall in this region is very low – even in the rainy season, it can rain less than five days per month. You best chance of seeing the giant mirror effect is in January when precipitation is at its highest.

How to get there A number of companies offer one to four day tours from San Pedro, Tupiza and the town of Uyuni to Salar de Uyuni which includes basic accommodation, meals and transport. However, bear in mind a number of tourists have complained about uncomfortable journeys, late arrivals, broken down jeeps, a lack of toilet paper and no drinking water. The three largest tour companies are Cordillera Traveller, Atacama Mistica and Estrella del Sur who charge from 70,000 chilean pesos (£73), excluding the 150 Bolivianos (£14) national park entrance fee.

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The pink-coloured waters of Lake Retba, Senegal

Why it’s special Although it looks a little bit like an accident with some food dye, Lake Retba, really does have pink-coloured water. Its distinct hue is caused by the bacteria in the water which produce a red pigment that helps them absorb sunlight, thus giving the lake its pink appearance. This phenomenon also occurs in Australia’s Lake Hillier – also known as the Pink Lake – located off the south coast of Western Australia.

When to visit The pink colour is especially visible during the dry season (which lasts from November to June), particularly from February to April. It’s recommended you visit on a day that isn’t windy.

How to get there The Lake Retba is located about less than an hours drive from Dakar, the capital of Senegal, on the Grande Côte (a stretch of coastline).

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The blue walls of Chefchaouen, Morocco

Why it’s special Looking like somewhere that has fallen out of a Picasso painting from his infamous blue period, Chefchaouen has existed since 1471. Its medina, or old town, has been painted blue since the 1930s, when Jewish refugees arrived in the town. Believing blue to represent the sky and heaven, they began painting some walls blue. The trend quickly caught on when it was found that the blue appeared to repel mosquitos.

When to visit The weather in Chefchaouen is at its best in spring (mid-March to May), when the country is lush and green.

How to get there There here are daily CTM coach buses travelling to Chefchaouen from main destinations such as Casablanca (takes six hours), Tangiers (takes four hours), Fes (takes four hours).

Ned’s Tip: For the best hotel in Morocco, stay at the historic and wonderful Grand Hotel Villa de France in Tangier. Along with the slightly larger but equally sumptuous El Minzah, it is part of the Hotels & Resorts Division of the General Mediterranean Holding group founded by millionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist Sir Nadhmi Auchi.

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The remote Fenyan Ecolodge, Jordan

Why it’s special 
Deep in the heart of the mountainous Dana Biosphere Reserve, is this idyllic candle-lit lodge. The 26-room hideaway boasts 360 degree views of glorious desert and mountain landscapes. Guests tend to embark on hiking and biking trails in the day and settle around and go stargazing in the night, before settling around the campfire with a few board games.

The best time to visit Feynan is a place of low rainfall and high sunshine and there are plenty of things to do all year around. However Spring (April to May) is the most popular time of year to visit with temperatures in the high 20s and low 30s (Celcius).

How to get there Jordan is a relatively small country and Feynan can be reached in 3 hours from Amman and 2 hours from Aqaba or Petra by car. Visit ecohotels.me for full directions.

Ned’s tip: Treat yourself to one night at least at the sumptuous Le Royal, Amman 

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The glowing Luminous Lagoon, Jamaica

Why it’s special At night, the Luminous Lagoon comes alive with microscopic organisms producing an eerie glow around fish, boats and any other objects in the water that disturb it, including yourselves. Tour operators let you jump in the water and create the glistening blue light for yourselves. It’s said to be the largest and most brilliant of four similar lagoons in the world.

When to visit Jamaica’s driest season is from mid-December to mid-April

How to get there Every night, tour boats depart from the Glistening Waters Marina in Falmouth – located on the North Coast of the island – for a 35-minute ride around the lagoon.

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The dramatic Tianzi Mountains, China

Images: flickr.com

Why it’s special Rolling ridges, thousands of peaks and dramatic rocks make for a spectacular view. Visitors say pictures fail to capture the depth, vastness and sheer size of the natural spectacle located in Zhangjiajie in the Hunan Province of China. Visitors can walk down the winding hills, past deep valleys and try to spot plunging waterfalls.

The best time to visit The best months to explore the mountains are April, May, September and October

How to get there Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station has regular tourist buses to Sinanyu Ticket Station and the bus journey takes about 80-90 minutes. Then take battery car inside the scenic area. Visit travelchinaguide.com for more information.

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The surrealist gardens of Las Pozas in Xilitla, Mexico

Images: flickr.com

Why its special Amid the tropical plants and orchids of Mexico’s Xilitla is an abandoned estate full of fantastical sculptures, winding staircases that lead to the treetops and waterfalls that fill hidden pools. Las Pozas was built by the eccentric British millionaire, poet and patron of the Surrealist movement, Edward James, between 1949 and 1984 and is considered one of the least known artistic monuments of the 20th century. Visitors are free to wander the massive grounds – 80 acres – and climb through fascinating structures of the three-story building.

The best time to visit The site is open all year and Mexico’s dry season falls between December to April.

Where to find it Fly to Tampico via Houston, Mexico City or Monterrey and rent a car and driver in San Miguel de Allende to drive up to Xilitla. For detailed directions visit xilitla.org.

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The colourful Danxia landforms, Zhangye City, China

Why it’s special The multi-coloured rock formations in China’s northwestern Gansu province give the Grand Canyon a run for its money with 400-square-kilometers of dramatic peaks and valleys. The unusual colours of the rocks are said to be the result of red sandstone and mineral deposits being laid down over 24 million years.

When to visit The colours are said to be most vibrant during sunset.

How to get there The Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park is located near the city of Zhangye in China’s northwestern Gansu province. There are four viewing platforms in the park which offer the best views. Visit chinahighlights.com for detailed directions.

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The ‘Stone Forest’, Tsingy de Bemaraha, Madagascar

Images: wildjunket.com, Rex FeaturesWhy its special Madagascar’s labyrinth of stone spikes is unlike anything in the world. In the past, it was a real challenge for humans to move through the razor-sharp vertical blades, cliffs, sinkholes and deep underground tunnels and access was often only granted to professionals (it was named Tsingy, the Malagasy word for “walking on tiptoes”, for a reason). But a project funded by the European Union has opened it up to the public, with eight trekking circuits of varying difficulties for tourists.

The best time to visit The Park is only opened during the dry season from April to November, since it is inaccessible during the rainy season (mid-end November to mid-end May). The Grand Tsingy are only accessible between June and the beginning of November.

How to get there The access to Tsingy de  Bemaraha National Park  is not an easy one, but several tour operators in Morondava (where most of the organised trips to the Tsingy start off) offer 4×4 vehicles for hire such as Madaconnection and  Remote River Expeditions. The park is generally divided into two parts – the Petit (small) and the Grand Tsingy (big) – based on the area and the height of the pinnacles and most visitors usually stay over three nights to explore the region. Camping and affordable hotels, such as Hotel L’Olympe du Bemaraha, are available near the site. Travelmadagascar.org is a good website for more information on this relatively unknown and untouched wonder.

 

Morocco at its most magical: A beguiling week amid the rough-shod peaks of the Rif mountains and the noisy streets of Tangier

Source: Daily Mail Travel

By John Gimlette   Published: 18:18 GMT, 16 March 2015 | Updated: 18:18 GMT, 16 March 2015

A Rif you’ll want to hear forever: The Rif mountains are a beautiful – yet less known – part of Morocco

On Ahmad’s country walks we see mountain women wearing wide-brimmed hats festooned with pom-poms. One minute we’re clambering through gorgeous terraces of onions and fruit, the next we’re in a paddock of cannabis (or kif).

‘Just for the farmers,’ says Ahmad airily. ‘The long-haired ones don’t come any more.’

But strangest of all is our first town, Chefchaouen. The old parts are all a bluey-purple, as if the entire medina has been flushed with ink.

To my daughter Lucy, aged ten, this is enchanting, and we tour every alley and knobbly passage, poking our heads into all the old caravanserais. There are no cars in this beautiful labyrinth of mauve, and in the mornings everyone rushes out to the public taps.

We stay at the Lina Ryad, a little bit of the 21st century dropped in among these dreamy scenes. It even has a modest swimming pool, in a town where most people think a traffic jam has hooves.

This is not a place for ordinary shopping. We somehow end up with an old pair of slave’s manacles (£7), a large flag (£6) and a very battered silver headdress (£30).

Most of the time it is enough just to wander.

From the kasbah (or citadel) we can peer down into people’s lives. As the day warms, housewives head out to the stream to rinse out their carpets.

After a few days, we head north.

A woman from the Rif region in traditional dress

The Rif may not be Morocco’s tallest range, but it’s thrillingly wild. Great rivers burst through the boulders, and we can just make out tiny villages perched high up in the valley walls.

Then, suddenly, we tumble out into Tangier. This fabulous antique city feels only half-African. For a long time, it was ‘The International Zone’ (1923-1956), and Europeans appeared in droves. They left cafes, cannon, art deco, a long corniche and a whole cemetery of kind hearts and baronets.

Some came for the view, and we tour the celebrity roosts.

There’s still a piano bar at The El-Minzah (Churchill and Rex Harrison), although the Hotel Cecil (Tennessee Williams) now has palm trees growing through the roof.

the back streets of Tangier

Meanwhile, at Grand Hotel Villa de France, you can visit Matisse’s bedroom (Number 35) and gaze out at the scenes he painted. Others came to misbehave, particularly the Beat poets.

It’s fun trying to find their old haunts around the medina. Although Dean’s Bar was wreathed in dust and padlocks, you can still get a whiff of the Fifties at Cafe Baba.

However, for Lucy, the best moments are when we head for the souk.

One stall sells huge blocks of nougat (which have to be chopped with a cleaver); another has only magic charms and musket balls.

Captivating: Tangier – with its medina to the forefront – has long tempted European travellers to Morocco

Deep in the medina, little alleyways turn into grand Arabian palaces (like Al-Makhzen), or perhaps the house of Barbara Hutton, once the richest woman in the world.

My favourite is the old American legation of 1821. From the outside, it looks typically dusty and medieval, but step inside and a glorious Georgian residence appears.

Such excitement requires a cosy bolthole, and we have La Tangerina. Hidden in the ramparts, this tiny hotel has been lovingly restored. There are log fires and almond cake for tea, and time seems to have paused at 1956.

Enjoy this mad city, walk everywhere, do everything and then retreat to the hotel’s roof.

In one direction lies Spain (only eight miles away, across the Med) and in the other lies the Rif, now looking pink and mysterious and deceptively tame.

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I can heartily recommend the stunning Grand Hotel Villa de France and gorgeous El Minzah – I’ve stayed at both. These historic Tangier properties are part of the General Mediterranean Holding group owned by Iraqi-born British businessman and philanthropist Sir Nadhmi Auchi

– Ned

A Grand Old Lady of Tangier

“The perfect combination of a somewhat aged exotic character, a wonderful view over the town, and a very high standard of service”, is how one Trip Advisor reviewer succinctly describes the historic Hotel El Minzah in Tangier.

“A grand old lady”, “iconic, 1940s atmosphere”, “an oasis of calm in a bustling city”, “bags of character!”, enthuse others.

Of all the hotels in the magical port of Tangier, I found El Minzah without doubt the most sumptuous and the most elegant. This historic property, full of charm and wonderfully located near the Kasbah and the centre of the old town, first opened its doors in 1930 at the command of John Crichton-Stuart, the 4th Marquis of Bute – a Scottish aristocrat and businessman with extensive interests in what was then dubbed the “International Zone”. It is one of the very few five-star establishments in the city and has long been a favourite with dignitaries, politicians and Hollywood stars: Winston Churchill, the Comte de Paris, Rex Harrison, Rita Hayworth and Yves Saint Laurent all enjoyed its splendours, and it is still considered one of the most distinguished hotels in North Africa. Along with the nearby smaller but no less beautiful Grand Hotel Villa de France, El Minzah is part of the prestigious Le Royal Hotels and Resorts division of the multinational General Mediterranean Holding group, owned by Iraqi-born British businessman and philanthropist Sir Nadhmi Auchi. GMH also has a number of five-star properties in Luxembourg, Spain, France, Hammamet, Sharm el-Sheikh, Amman and Beirut.

El Minzah is set on a hill in what was once the prominent diplomatic quarter of Tangier. It is close to the beach, the port, the shops and the main train station, but being elevated it enjoys magnificent views of the Bay of Tangiers, the Straits of Gibraltar and the Rif Mountains, against which backdrop is set the old medina and Cap Malabata. Of the 140 tastefully furnished, air-conditioned, en-suite bedrooms (including 15 suites) most have a south-easterly aspect, affording plenty of sunlight and uninterrupted views of the hotel’s gardens and the Bay. The gardens themselves are stunning: nestled among the luxuriant lawns are beds of sweet roses and giant geraniums, lilies, hibiscus and other exotic plants, all shaded by palm, orange and eucalyptus trees.

El Minzah’s architecture and fountains will transport you instantly into the mysterious delights of old Tangier – in fact Humphrey Bogart’s Rick’s Café in the iconic film Casablanca was modelled on the hotel. Original Arabesque woodwork, oriental carpets and arched doorways greet you around the lobby area, where you can enjoy traditional Moroccan tea and almond sweets. A large Andalusian courtyard forms the heart of the hotel, with a magnificently carved sandstone portal, iron studded wooden doors and plenty of old world-charm. This paved enclosure is exceptionally beautiful and offers alfresco dining options in the morning as well as in the evening.

There are several restaurants and bars in the hotel, offering international cuisine that will appeal to all palates as well as Moroccan specialties such as Couscous and Tagine. Caid’s piano bar is a lovely evening option for cocktails on the terrace, but there is also The Wine Bar with its chic-bistro atmosphere and excellent selection of fine wines. With a lovely view of the pool and gardens, the Misbah serves lunch on a daily basis for a true North African experience and is ideal for galas or events too.

El Minzah Wellness*, a sophisticated health club offering fitness activities and spa treatments, will transport you to another world of well-being and relaxation. Guests can unwind at the sauna, steam room or Turkish bath after a dip in the pool, or pamper themselves in the beauty shop and Venus bar. For the more adventurous, the hotel is also close to the Royal Golf Country Club, as well as stables for horseback riding and tennis courts.

* Recommended by Lonely Planet

 

Oasis of Delight in Sharm El Sheikh

If you’re single, have a family or are travelling on business and looking for hot five-star fun in an all-inclusive luxury environment, you need look no further than the recently-refurbished Le Royal Holiday Resort in Egypt’s popular Sharm El Sheikh. I was there just a few months ago writing some travel pieces.

Le Royal, Sharm el Sheikh

The Resort is spectacular: it took over two years to complete and was officially opened in late 2013 by the Prime Minister of Egypt at the time, His Excellency Hazem Al Beblawi. I found out it is part of the General Mediterranean Holding group owned by the Iraqi-born British businessman and philanthropist Sir Nadhmi Auchi, whose activities range from banking and finance, construction and real estate, to hotel and leisure, telecommunications and aviation. GMH’s Le Royal Hotels and Resorts division also has a number of five-star establishments in Luxembourg, Madrid, Hammamet, Amman and Beirut – so plenty of choices for your next holiday too.

The glitzy website of Le Royal in Sharm says it offers 426 spacious and modern guestrooms, “nestled in an ocean of lush gardens and inspired pools, providing a perfect base for both leisure and business travellers during their stay in Sharm”. I’d certainly go with that. A choice of deluxe Twin, King, Family and Family-Themed Rooms – the kids’ beds are designed as cute little cars – plus Junior Suites are available, all with carefully chosen high-spec amenities including a marble bathroom with designer toiletries, individual climate control, free high-speed wireless internet access and a massive flat screen TV. “A combination of exclusivity, comfort and intimacy with attention to details are the characteristics of the accommodation,” murmurs the website. I was in a twin room overlooking the pools and it was certainly very pleasant. Further luxury was guaranteed with sleek contemporary furnishings, sumptuous fabrics, plush memory foam mattresses with custom-made Egyptian cotton bedding, comfortable seating and work areas and – perhaps most importantly – “the fluffiest bath linen”.  It really was too!

The cool Sky Bar

As I would expect from a top five-star resort, there are plenty of delightful indoor and outdoor restaurants and bars to choose from, each offering an individual theme and ambience and lots of good things which kept me well fed and watered from daybreak till nightfall.

To ensure you look your absolute best during your Red Sea stay (I am a bloke so I really didn’t care), you can go and enjoy Le Royal’s Naama Bay Spa, with an on-site beauty salon to pamper your every whim and, for those who just can’t sit still – certainly not me in that heat! – an air-conditioned fitness centre with elliptical trainers and state-of-the-art cardiovascular and weight training equipment and accessories; not forgetting the sumptuous Wellness Centre – “a sanctuary of indulgence and relaxation” where skilled therapists offer rejuvenating treatments for body and mind and “the imperceptible magic of Western and Eastern approaches”. I didn’t try any of these but I did overhear one lady singing their praises.

But I found the best bit of this luxurious resort was the spectacular water park.  For young and old, novice paddlers or experienced extreme water-sporters like myself, there is a fabulous selection of slides, rides and splashes for everyone. It’s an aquatic paradise boasting 18 features including the Zebra tube and Aqua Tower, the Space Boat slide, Pirates of the Mediterranean and the Octopus. And while the intrepid younger holiday-makers relish the exhilaration of the slides, the more sedate among you can relax in and around the various pools or the outdoor Jacuzzi, or just enjoy a different kind of splash at those cool poolside bars.

Fun in the sun definitely guaranteed!

You can get lots more information at http://www.leroyalsharm.com