NEAREST AND DEAREST
Palm leader
Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
Enjoy a combination of one dozen classic ruby red roses, a Sunset Bathing Ritual, strawberries dipped in chocolate and a romantic turndown with a sprinkle of rose petals with the room packages starting at Dhs2235. Visit: www.atlantisthepalm.com/rooms
Up to new Rix
Rixos The Palm, Dubai
If you fancy a romantic night stay with rose petals spread across your bed sheets and scrumptious chocolates left by your bed side, this is for you. Rixos also offers private one on one dining under the stars and special Spa packages that promises nothing less than perfect serenity and relaxation. Packages start from Dhs5749. Call: 04 457 5555
Tree’s the magic number
Banyan Tree, Ras Al Khaimah
The journey starts with a scenic Seawings flight from Dubai to Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach resort to check in to a Beachfront Pool Villa, before enjoying a snack at the al fresco Sands restaurant and taking a dip in the personal infinity pool overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Guests are then swept away by private car to visit the only pearl farm in the United Arab Emirates for an insight into the unique history of pearl farming in the region.
A picnic lunch is served by a personal waiter on a floating majilis, located within the mangroves. The Arabian Pearl Retreat experience starts from Dhs8990 per night. Call: 07 206 7777
Al Aqah tracker
Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa
Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa is offering a night’s stay for two in a classic room including breakfast; a gourmet seafood set-menu at Waves and discounts on therapies at Zen the Spa for Dhs1800 per person, per room. Call: 09 244 9888
Capital idea
Mafraq Hotel, Abu Dhabi
Guests can enjoy a one-night stay in a deluxe double room, decorated to celebrate the month of love. The romance continues with an intimate four-course set dinner for two at the hotel’s Oasis Courtyard, situated within the hotel’s beautiful gardens and overlooking the pool. This overnight and dinner package is valid over the Valentine’s weekend at Dhs676.
Call: 02 659 6666
All aboard
Dubai Marina Yacht Club
Step aboard Athena, the dedicated yacht at the Yacht Club, and indulge in a Ocean Picnic.
Begin your journey with some bubbly upon arrival, and then step up to the deck with an epicurean picnic hamper featuring luxury food items. Call: 04 362 7932
Rove to the Cove
Cove Rotana, Ras Al Khaimah
Spend a romantic day for two with a pampering 90-minute couple’s Swedish massage on the beach or Spa, a welcome tea and fresh fruit, full day Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, pool and beach access.
Visit: www.rotana.com
Suite nothings
Waldorf Astoria, Ras Al Khaimah
Imagine flying by seaplane or helicopter from Dubai along the Arabian Coastline to stay in the most luxurious suite at Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, indulging in spa treatments in the VIP treatment suite and exquisite dining in the King Imperial Suite private dining room. Mail: rasalkhaimah.info@waldorfastoria.com
Man-groovy
Eastern Mangroves Suites by Jannah, Abu Dhabi
The hotel boasts breathtaking views over the natural mangroves. Each suite will be adorned with special touches, including chocolates, fresh flowers and sparkling date juice. Each couple will also enjoy a three-course seafood dinner all for Dhs1700. Visit: www.jannah.ae
OUT AND ABOUT
Bravo Baros
Baros Maldives
Only four hours away from the UAE by direct flight, and 20 minutes by speed boat from Male International Airport - guests are able to travel to this serene, private island resort with ease. Set in a translucent lagoon surrounded by a sun-drenched, white sand beach, ringed with a colourful coral reef, Baros Maldives is the ideal destination for a relaxing escape filled with diverse wonders that will delight every couple.
Visit: www.baros.com
That’s Amari!
Amari Hotels, Thailand
Spoil your Valentine this year with a relaxing and exotic stay at three of Amari’s most romantic properties in Thailand. Amari Palm Reef Koh Samui, Amari Vogue Krabi and Amari Phuket are each offering special Valentine’s packages tailored for couples looking for a sweet tropical escape with exciting activities, spa treatments for couples, intimate dining settings and generous complimentary extras, that are valid from February 2014 through to December 2014. Packages start from approximately USD 926. Visit: www.amari.com
From Russia with Love
Corinthia Hotel, St. Petersburg, Russia
There’s a reason people call St. Petersburg “the Venice of the North.” With its beautiful cathedrals, relaxing riverside views, and variety of inviting dining destinations, it’s a city made for romantics, one that will have visitors returning again and again. With Valentine’s Day approaching, Corinthia St. Petersburg is offering couples the perfect romantic escape in its elegant surroundings. Visit: www.corinthia.com/stpetersburg
50 shades of Le Gray
Le Gray, Beirut, Lebanon
Couples can indulge in a romantic retreat at the elegant hotel, perfectly placed to explore the historic centre as well as the beautiful cobbled streets of the downtown area which exude a romantic charm during winter. Within walking distance to both Zaitunay Bay and the Beirut Souks, it is conveniently located to Beirut’s most popular attractions. Visit: www.legray.com
Dusit sound good?
Dusit Thani Maldives
The 94 villas and residences each offer a haven of modern sophistication with luxurious amenities and technology. Featuring Beach, Lagoon and Ocean Villas with pool, all villas offer modern amenities including complimentary Wi-Fi (available around the island) IP TV with 46” plasma screen and Bose surround system for around USD 1200 per night. www.dusit.com
Feeling Horse
Cheval Blanc Randheli, Maldives
Sail on the beautifully decorated dhoni to Cheval Blanc’s dedicated Spa Island to enjoy an exclusive St Valentine’s treatment in one of the dedicated Orchidée Villas for two. In the evening, enjoy the ‘By the Light of the Moon’ experience, when guests will experience the harmony and peace of a private yoga session, followed by a tranquil, moonlit sail across the lagoon. Visit: www.chevalblanc.com
You Buda believe it
Corinthia Hotel, Budapest, Hungary
Budapest offers travellers the idyllic romantic city escape.
Start the morning off with a lazy breakfast in bed and then head over to the historic Royal Spa to unwind taking advantage of the world-class treatments including the Niagara bathtubs, tropical rain showers and mud and seaweed baths.
In the evening, discover the charms of the city by taking a stroll along the Danube and discover the city’s magnificent architecture and UNESCO world heritage sites. For the perfect ending to a day filled with romance, get cozy over a candle-lit five course Valentine’s Day dinner for two at the Royal Brasserie & Atrium Restaurant. The luxurious surroundings and atmosphere will make you feel like the only two in the world.
The ‘Sweet Suite’ package rate starts from €365 for a two night stay. Visit: www.corinthia.com/budapest