Are you hunting high and low for summer holiday destinations?

By Luke Durden in Destination, Uncategorized

A new calendar month is around the corner, the month of January is heading for its place at the end of the line and yes… it’s still cold, but it’s a different kind of cold and there’s a lot more sun. You’ve already noticed how the days are getting longer and how those months leading up to summer are approaching, and this is when it’s time to choose a travel destination – to enjoy your holiday in a well-researched location and at the best available price.

Early Booking is becoming increasingly popular, and a majority of destinations compete with each other, presenting interesting offers for leisure and relax. We’ll suggest three of them this month, three that never fail: Ibiza, Tenerife and Mallorca. It does sound good, doesn’t it?

 

Iberostar Santa Eulalia

Iberostar Santa Eulalia

 

Ibiza, the island that never sleeps

Couples, families, singles and groups of friends, there is room for all here on the white island of Ibiza. Known for its beaches and summer nights partying until dawn, the Balearic island has other places to offer that exist side-by-side with this bustling, frenetic lifestyle. Locations such as Santa Agnes or Santa Eulalia del Río where you can experience the real Ibiza. Also, finding a good hotel in Santa Eulalia, Ibiza is relatively easy since there are many who have chosen this area for their headquarters.

From enjoying golden sunsets to strolling along the nature trails, the truth is that this  destination always leaves you with a nice feeling inside, a feeling that this is a place you’ll always want to return to. The best month to enjoy it as it ought to be enjoyed? May, June, the first weeks in July and September.

Tenerife, a passion for everything natural

Territory of the Teide: Tenerife is a place where nature and authenticity is waiting around every corner and at every beach, which is why choosing it as a holiday destination is a winning idea. For those looking for peace and quiet nothing could be better than choosing a hotel in the south of Tenerife, one of the areas preferred by families who want to relax rather than go partying until dawn.

The good thing about the Canary Islands is that thanks to their lovely climate you can visit them all year round, so don’t hesitate to spoil yourself with a getaway during these months if what you’re looking for is getting away from the routine.

Mallorca, the perfect destination

Mallorca is beautiful, we know that for a fact. But there’s something else about it too: Mallorca is a destination that has it all… It’s the perfect place, in the perfect location and with a perfect climate where it’s never too cold or too hot. The Mediterranean in its purest state with landscapes that look like they’ve been created by some world-famous artist.

The areas in the south of the island (such as Playa de Palma) are mostly frequented by younger travellers and the north of Mallorca is the ideal option for those looking for a quiet holiday as a family in one of the many hotels in Alcudia. Just like Ibiza, the best months to visit the island without too much hustle and bustle are May, June, the first weeks of July and September.

 

Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa loyalty program

By Luke Durden in Dubai

The Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa offers its guests a new project whose name is Loyalty Program. Under this recent procedure, guests will have access to the best hotel rates quickly.

Members of this selective club will take advantage of the special deals and the exclusive discounts of our resort.

As part of the Loyalty Program, you don’t need any points to earn rewards like previous policies, now you only have to fill out the form, submit it and sign up with us. Then you become part of the Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa.

First of all you will receive a welcome promotional rate code via email, you can use it when you visit our official website.

After that, you will have free access to the best available rates, promotions and discounts of our hotel. We have the best prices online guaranteed!

Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa

There are many advantages at the time of booking directly on our official website, some of those benefits are:

  • 25 % off in laundry
  • 20 % off in food and beverages
  • Breakfast included
  • Late check out at no extra charge
  • Early check in
  • Two bottles of mineral water per day
  • Fruit basket upon arrival
  • Welcome drink on arrival
  • Free meal
  • Special discounts for last minute bookings

These advantages are subject to availability and some of them can change depending on the season and the hotel’s occupancy rate.

You have to check the conditions before confirming your booking.

When visiting our official website and booking some nights at the Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa you will get an extra discount by entering a code, this code can change daily or weekly and you can see it while making the reservation.

Before organizing your trip to Bur Dubai, firstly check out our special deals and discounts, then choose the package or the bid that best suits your interests, select the dates of check in and check out, then choose the room and the meal plan, and finally make your reservation.  

What are you waiting for? Hurry up and register on our website!

Top Madrid Hotels for Business Trips

By Luke Durden in Madrid hotels

Leaving the house in the early hours (sometimes in the middle of the night), wearing a corporate suit, with little desire to travel (in most cases), tiredness and a high percentage of stress. That is how we could summarize the experience of going on a business trip, the type of trip that you must do on behalf of your company and that doesn’t normally last more than 2 or 3 days.

Although the mere act of traveling is always an experience, it is a great truth that going on business trips doesn’t always feel like that, much less in months like we are in now, famous for its sub-zero temperatures. But, just in case you really have to travel to a destination like Madrid, how would you feel about staying in a place where you get to feel at home? Today we are recommending some hotels in Madrid that are ideal for those corporate trips.

Madrid

Petit Palace Art Gallery

Elegant, stately and perfectly connected to the main points of the capital, this is the Petit Palace Art Gallery hotel, a boutique hotel situated in a beautiful 19th century building where you can have free use of WiFi and an ipad in your room during your stay along with gourmet dining which can be found in the hotel’s Malevich restaurant, a local and national benchmark of the most select gourmet cuisine.

Petit Palace Arturo Soria

Considered one of the best business hotels in all of Madrid, the Petit Palace Arturo Soria hotel stands out in terms of services. Located near IFEMA (something that will make it an ideal choice if you have to go to Fitur for work), this hotel will provide you with a superior WiFi connection as well as high quality meeting rooms.

Petit Palace Gran Vía

In addition to being located in one of the best areas of Madrid’s Gran Vía, the Petit Palace Gran Via hotel is a stone’s throw from the Fuencarral district and also the Círculo de Bellas Artes. Spacious and stately but comfortable and with services designed to allow you to unwind, this hotel has breakfasts of the highest quality and areas to work online at maximum speed.

2017, the year of your luxury holiday in Ibiza

By Luke Durden in Balearic Islands

Between the bottle half-full and the bottle half-empty, most of us opt for the first option, time and time again, but that is not enough for the arrival of summer. With six months ahead of us to plan with time (and with our heads) how we want those days off to be, it is not a bad idea to opt for that romantic trip full of luxuries that we have always wanted to do but never did because we never found the perfect time to do it. What is the perfect destination? In Hotels & Destinations we are certain: Ibiza.

Far from that bustle that characterizes the island in the month of August, there is nothing better than getting to know the white island in the month of June (or even in May). This is simply because the island in these months begins to be reborn, its Mediterranean sea looks cleaner than ever and the leisure options are exclusive for all those who choose the island in these months. Which are the walks that you absolutely must do or the experiences that you can‘t miss? This month we are bringing you a luxury Ibizan trip to suit all budgets.

Ibiza

A romantic stroll through Dalt Vila

They say that all the magic of the island of Ibiza is concentrated in Dalt Vila so it is considered one of the most romantic and charming parts of the island.

Enjoying the setting sun whilst losing yourselves in the streets of Dalt Vila is one of those ideas that you will always want to try. Although our recommendation for dinner will take you to another corner of the city, there is nothing better than opening your taste buds to dinner with wine in some of the taverns you will find in the old city.

A dinner in the Port

Part of the philosophy of the ‘Adlib’ fashion was born in the port of Ibiza, on those nights by the sea with the sounds of drums and guitars in the background. With several restaurants offering fresh fish and cold champagne, this area promises a perfect dinner for two with an impressive setting of luxury and glamor (for something is the place where they meet the personalities that visit the island).

A day on the boat

Whether heading to Formentera or enjoying a highly romantic day on the high seas, there is nothing like renting a boat to experience a whole day at sea. Since in the early days of June the beaches of the island are practically deserted, you shouldn’t miss visiting the coves that can only be reached by boat.

An ideal hotel for your stay in Ibiza

Romantic by nature, Ibiza is a perfect place to enjoy a romantic and unique holiday. Although you can find lots of hotels on the island, there is nothing better than choosing the Iberostar Santa Eulalia hotel.

Located in the heart of Santa Eulalia, one of the most beautiful localities of the island, the hotel in Santa Eulalia, Ibiza offers exclusive services for two such as a beach club and even soap and bonsai workshops.or workshops. In addition to these things, it is enough to see the quality of the rooms of the Iberostar Santa Eulalia hotel to understand why it is considered one of the best hotels on the island.

Coastal destinations for a New Year’s Eve full of leisure and gourmet food

By Luke Durden in Destination

With a little more than three weeks to go before we taste the traditional and very plentiful Christmas Eve dinner with the family, a lot of people begin to study the possible options for how to spend the last night of the year. Beyond eating the twelve midnight grapes to bring luck in destinations like Madrid (an option that has become very fashionable in recent years) we mustn’t ignore other possibilities that can give the night of the 31st of December a new and original touch.

Although the option of a New Year’s Eve on the coast is no attraction for those who live at the seaside, the truth is that this idea can mark a memorable ‘before and after’ in the holidays of all those who reside in the interior of our country. What are the coast destinations that lend themselves to a different New Year’s Eve? Takes note: Almería, Huelva and Castellón.

The white magic of Mojácar

A New Year’s Eve surrounded by the magic of a small white village lying on a hillside with an Almerian flavor; that and much more is offered by a destination like Mojácar. Considered one of the most beautiful destinations in the province of Almeria, this small town is characterized by its originality and its excellent 100% Andalusian gourmet food; a cuisine that achieves excellence in hotels such as the FERGUS Style Palacio Mojacar SPA.

Beyond its cultural richness, Mojácar is a perfect place for those who seek to be in contact with nature since there are lots of varied routes for cyclists and hikers with specially adapted paths and unique sea views.

Playa de Matalascañas

Playa de Matalascañas

Matalascañas, nature and pure gourmet food

In one of the friendliest areas of the Atlantic is Matalascañas, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the province of Huelva. Kingdom of the traditional fried choquito and the red prawns of Huelva, its realms are perfect for experiencing a different and very Southern New Year’s Eve and incidentally, the place doesn’t die when the summer ends.

You can choose a hotel to enjoy long and rewarding golf sessions, such as those that can be found in the FERGUS Style El Cortijo Golf, or opt for a holiday full of water sports and walks along its kilometers of beaches.

An end of the year in the Mediterranean

They say that few places are as beautiful as Costa Azahar, in Castellón. With its views of the Mediterranean sea and all that is good in the Valencian area to recommend it, the idea of spending the end of the year there is a great one.

A winning idea? Choose a beachfront hotel (like he FERGUS Alcoceber) to welcome in the New Year with the best view in our country.

Gastronomic centers in Tenerife for an Autumn break

By Luke Durden in gastronomic hotels

Although we all agree that Summer is the best season to travel so that we can be assured of having good weather (at least an 80% chance), this statement isn’t the case if Tenerife is your chosen destination.

With mild weather all year round and with a level of tourism that goes down considerably in the Autumn and Winter months, the Canaries are perfectly ideal for three or four day getaways with the aim of escaping the cold.

Once the destination is chosen, it is time to start making plans that will make your stay unforgettable. Yes, we know … The beaches are there and we all know that going to the Canaries and not going to any of its beaches is rather like not having been there; however, the lucky islands offer visitors lots of alternative ideas that are worth trying, especially in this season. For example why not try visiting one of the most outstanding ‘shrines’ to gourmet food in Tenerife.

bodega en Tenerife

A good starting point is to taste some of the wines of the land and what better way to enjoy them to the maximum than with a visit to the Island’s main wineries. Wineries such as Frontos or El Lobo that offer travelers a tour with tasting included. Without a doubt, this idea can be recommended.

Since a glass of wine is perfect to get your appetite going, from Hotels and Destinations we suggest you make an obligatory stop at one of the best restaurants on the island: the Papa Negra restaurant.

This is a restaurant located in the impressive IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Mencey in which to try some of the land’s most special delicacies presented with an exotic and avant-garde touch. Although in low season it is easier to get a good table, it is best to book in advance.

Lastly, and since more and more people love cookery and spending hours in the kitchen, no traveler with cooking skills should return to his/her routine without having passed through Mencey’s cookery classroom, a place that offers cooking courses in Tenerife taught by expert chefs.

The concept of “leisure and shopping” is prominent in Magaluf on Mallorca

By Luke Durden in Majorca

One of the things about our country’s main holiday destinations that catches the attention, is their ability to reinvent themselves again and again so that they can offer tourists (and locals) interesting, new things which can make a normal vacation into an authentic experience in every way.

By improving year after year (like good wine) the small town of Magaluf (in the southeast of Mallorca) is a benchmark. While in the past its only strong points were its bars, white sandy beach and crystal clear waters, today Magaluf is a place to enjoy a range of leisure activities unique on the island (and yes, we said unique).

Which are the principal tourist spots in the area?

Magaluf beach, Majorca

Magaluf beach, Majorca

Centro Comercial La Vila (Commercial Center)

Although not yet completed, the Centro Comercial La Vila is a sensation for tourists visiting the area and for locals who live there all year. And we have to keep in mind that years’ ago the area was dead as major hotels closed. Thanks to ideas like this, the season has lengthened.

The Katmandu Park

Far from being a theme park just for kids, the Katmandu Park (with its traditional crazy house) is a venue in which to enjoy terrifying passages, 4D cinema, places to kill zombies or cafes full of colorful cupcakes.

The little ones can enjoy this wonderful zone of playgrounds, water parks and shops full of unique toys.

Where to stay in Magaluf

Since Kathmandu Park is one of the attractions for families who choose this area of ​​Mallorca to spend a few days of relaxation and leisure, the Sol Hotels chain decided to give life to the Sol Katmandu Park Resort. A charming hotel closely watched by the resort characters themselves and giving direct access to each and every available attraction.

For those who prefer to enjoy the Mallorcan tranquility as a couple or with friends there is nothing better than the Sol Beach House hotel, an ‘Adults Only’ hotel located on the beach and in which there is no shortage of beautiful views and exclusive services.

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Hotel restaurants: Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa

By Luke Durden in gastronomic hotels

Restaurants of the Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa invite guests to enjoy a unique experience in Dubai due to their varied offer of delicious dishes. Guests senses make a tour around the world through the appetising and tasty recipes with the personal touch of the chef.

Indian, Mediterranean, Egyptian, Thai, Chinese and other international cuisine, specialties and signature dishes are the items which give this resort the edge.

The Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa hosts the following restaurants and bars:

→ Mumtaz Mahal Restaurant

Specialized in Indian cuisine, this restaurant has won many awards.

It serves North West and Mughlai dishes using traditional ingredients.

Clients are both nationals and tourists.

Decoration: Indian style, colourful, comfortable furniture, handicraft, wood.

Live shows and performances of traditional songs and dancings.

→ Silk Route Chinese & Thai Restaurant

Serving the most famous and traditional dishes of Chinese and Thai cuisine.

Live show cooking.

→ Pharaoh Café & Restaurant

This is a museum restaurant of both Mediterranean and Egyptian cuisine.

Specialties such as camel burger.

Vegetarians and vegans will love it.

Drinks: beers, cocktails, spirits and wines.

→ VIP Lounge

Located in the Executive Floor and included in the grand suite and the executive rooms bookings.

Private and exclusive ambience.

Daily buffet breakfast.

Happy Hours from 06:30 to 08:30 pm offering canapés, aperitifs and alcoholic beverages.

Executive boardroom at extra charge.

→ Ahlan Lounge

Ideal for a quick break between meetings.

Salads, juices, sandwiches, coffee and tea.

→ Sherlock Holmes English Pub

Themed decoration which takes guests back to English heritage.

Perfect for relaxing after a hard day of work or a leisure day in Dubai.

Live music with a band.

Those who want to enjoy a gourmet experience in Dubai may come to any of the restaurants of the Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa. They are open to both locals and tourists so everyone will find his place.
If you want to have a look to the assorted menus, make a reservation or simply you need additional information about the restaurants and bars, visit the hotel official website.

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Landscapes, sport and fun in northern Mallorca

By Luke Durden in Balearic Islands

Although every tourist, every traveler and every visitor wants a specific destination; All those who visit Mallorca in the summer months agree on something: Few things are comparable to the natural beauty of the north of the island.

Unknown to all those who prefer leisure of the Balearic capital (Palma de Mallorca) and the southern beaches (like the well-known and paradisical Es Trenc), the north of the island is the perfect place to enjoy scenery of immeasurable beauty, sea and mountain sports and entertainment for young and old. An area formed by geographical points that lend their names to the areas that we are going to tour today. Would you come with us?

beach mallorca

Cala Millor, a haven of peace

Although its population has a very high percentage of young people (when compared with other areas of the island), Cala Millor is a place where you breathe tranquility. A piece of the island where you can experience the word “vacation” in every sense.

In this area of ​​Mallorca not only can you enjoy places of inland beauty like Sant Llorençs des Cardassar but its beaches stun in spots like S’Illot and Cala Bona. So with an exceptional gourmet tour and places where you can practice all kinds of sports, you can understand perfectly why so many people choose it for their holidays.

Can Picafort, much more than a beach

The temple of the spectacular Playa de Muro (that which has led Mallorca to be compared with the Caribbean himself) and infinite sea front strolls, Can Picafort is much more than a beach destination. Perfect for cycling enthusiasts and for families seeking tranquility and leisure, this area of ​​northern Mallorca has everything and more for a perfect holiday.

Can Picafort, Mallorca

Can Picafort, Mallorca

Alcudia, the realm of water sports

As can be inferred from the title, Alcudia is a paradise for lovers of water sports. A destination in which to enjoy the most beautiful Mallorcan landscapes whilst kite surfing, paddle surfing, kayaking, parasailing or even sailing with an instructor.

Where to stay in northern Mallorca?
The northern part of Mallorca is characterized by having high quality accommodation. Hotels with no shortage of facilities for big and small alike, are perfectly integrated into the area’s magical environment. So in Cala Millor our recommended choices range from the Apartahotel Ferrer Isabel (for its excellent service and facilities) in Can Picafort and in Alcudia, the Apartamentos Ferrer Tamarindos and Hotel & Spa Ferrer Janeiro, a unique hotel facing the bay of Alcudia.

Discover Malaga from an exclusive luxury hotel

By Luke Durden in Andalusia

They say that Andalusia has two capitals, in the West it would be Seville and in the East, Malaga reigns queen. Beautiful, with great temperatures throughout the year, full of history and steeped in international culture and with customs loved by each and everyone (from the first moment); Malaga is a province of discovery, of rest and a place to experience an exclusive holiday full of luxuries … What sort of luxuries?

Puerto Banus

Puerto Banus

Unique routes to discover Malaga

Shopping along Calle Larios

With its history and character, Malaga’s ‘Calle Larios’ is the meeting place of the ‘fashionistas’ who reside in the Andalusian province and this central street hosts local, national and international brands of both clothing and footwear to complete the look. Since at peak times there are lots of visitors who scour the area from end to end, we recommend that the day of shopping along Calle Larios begins early in the morning (at about 10.00 h) or late or the afternoon.

Puerto Banus, a unique place in the world

Although you have to cover a distance of about thirty kilometers, visiting Puerto Banus is a delight. With its harbor full of white houses, the aroma of pure luxury (with Just, Cavalli or Versace boutiques among many others) and their pontoons filled with ultra long megayachts, the port is one of the most exclusive in the world and also one of the most visited by lovers of luxury tourism.

Dining with a Mediterranean background

Whether in the city center or at the port, there is an element that is always present in Malaga: the Mediterranean. With the slight breeze so characteristic of the Alboran Sea (which bathes the coast of Malaga), there is nothing like enjoying a romantic dinner by candlelight with the sound of the Mediterranean waves, with its scent and cooling moisture. A unique and highly recommended experience.

Luxury hotels in Malaga

Select tourism has kept watch on Malaga for many years and has noticed that the city is a hub for the finest of hotels. Which of these luxury hotels stand out?

  • Vincci Aleysa: Located on the exclusive beach in Benalmadena, The Vincci Aleysa is a 5-star, smoke-free hotel, perfect for those who don’t want just any accommodation. Its cuisine and Spa make it one of the most important hotels in the area.
  • Vincci Estrella del Mar: In Marbella and less than 10 minutes from Puerto Banus, you can find the exclusive Vincci Estrella del Mar, a five star hotel in which you can relax as never before and where you’ll discover the province of Malaga’s most select and beautiful side.
  • Vincci Malaga: For those who prefer to spend their days off in the capital, your best choice is the Vincci Malaga hotel. This four-star hotel is located on the sea front.