Last-minute New Year getaway? Here are 5 short breaks to book
It has arguably been quite a testing year, and judging by the #Dear2016 hashtag that trended on Twitter recently, many are glad to see the back of the past 12 months. So if you’re after some much-needed time off as 2017 begins, there’s still time to book a bargain short break. We’ve rounded up our five favourites.
SINGAPORE
If you live in or have visited Dubai, then you’ll know what we mean when we say that Singapore feels like the emirate’s just-as-cool sibling. Fusing high-tech offerings and modern architecture with historical buildings like the famous Raffles Hotel and districts like Chinatown, Singapore is a short break option that suits just about everyone.
Check in to: Hotel Naumi
The lowdown: Located in the heart of the city, this luxury boutique hotel offers personalised service from the moment you set foot in the premises.
Muslim traveller perks: Ladies’ only floor, alcohol-free rooms, halal restaurants nearby and a mosque located close to the hotel.
From: AED 600 ($163) per night
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM
For those looking for some crisp cold weather, where better than lovely London? Whether you’re flying in for a bit of sightseeing or just there for the food and shopping, there’s plenty you can pack into a couple of days.
Check in to: Bermondsey Square Hotel
The lowdown: A decent London hotel that costs $100 a night? Yes, please! This stylish four-star property is a short walk away from Tower Bridge and offers a splendid view of the English capital’s skyline. It comprises loft rooms and a lounge that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Only alcohol-free drinks are served.
Muslim traveller perks: Due to its Muslim ownership, the hotel’s restaurant serves halal food and does not offer any alcohol in the hotel.
From: AED 361 ($100) per night
SEMINYAK, INDONESIA
A famous beach resort area in southern Bali, Seminyak is perfect for those not wanting to do much at all. Relaxing, relaxing and relaxing some more is the order of the day here.
Check in to: The Elysian Boutique Villa Hotel
The lowdown: You won’t really need to leave your hotel during this break. A two-minute walk from the beach, The Elysian is home to several villas, each of which come with their very own private garden, sundeck and swimming pool. For those looking for more chill activities, Balinese cooking classes and private yoga sessions are available.
Muslim traveller perks: Private swimming pools, alcohol-free villas, halal dining options, female spa therapists and a nearby mosque.
From: AED 1,315 ($358) per night for a one-bedroom villa with a private pool
BAKU, AZERBAIJAN
The Azerbaijani capital has been making waves the past few years, attracting 2 million tourists in 2015. And with many Middle Eastern airlines flying direct to Baku, not to mention visas available on arrival to citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and the UAE, the destination continues to grow in popularity.
Check in to: Premier Hotel
The lowdown: One of Booking.com’s top bestsellers in Baku, the Premier Hotel is a quaint four-star property that includes a sauna and swimming pool. Expect interiors to be ‘old school’; after all, that’s the general vibe in the city. But we think that just adds to its appeal.
Muslim traveller perks: All food served at the hotel is halal.
From: AED 129 ($35) per night
ROGASKA SLATINA, SLOVENIA
According to its tourism board, Slovenia is being positioned as a ‘buzzword’ for Middle Eastern travellers in 2017. Known as a spa town, Rogaska Slatina is a great option to unwind and recharge for the year ahead.
Check in to: Hotel Aleksander
The lowdown: Spa? Check. Pool? Check. Jacuzzi? Check. Set against a picturesque hilly background amidst beautiful green gardens, Hotel Aleksander offers some of the best views in the city.
Muslim traveller perks: Alcohol-free rooms, halal food options available, and separate spa rooms and saunas for men and women.
From: AED 1,331 ($362) per night
luxuryhotelsgroup.com/slovenia
Editor’s note: The prices mentioned above are for holidays starting 3 January 2017 onwards.
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Rachel McArthur