Latest news with #resorts
Forbes
2 days ago
- Forbes
A Spanish Twist On East And West
Directional Road Signs Pointing East and West, Vector Illustration of Guideposts in Black and White ... More for Navigation and Travel. Trendy resorts are often both timeless and cutting edge. Palma de Majorca, off the coast of southeast Spain, has winding old streets and a 14th-Century castle that can be seen for miles off shore. While the island's buzzy downtown restaurants may be more focused on local paella and seafood, the Kimpton Asyla is rolling out a menu of Asian-inspired rolls, soups and dumplings. The dining room at Saba. Saba, which means mackerel in Japanese, focuses on a dueling menu of Asian versus Spanish specialties. In some ways that culinary choice is not too surprising for a chain like Kimpton, which has long been based in San Francisco. Several of the hotel's restaurants in California also feature Asian restaurants, such as the elaborate Thai food at HED11 in the Kimpton Enso, in Japantown; and Filipino food at ABACÁ at the Kimpton Alton in Fisherman's Wharf. Spanish tomato toast pan tomaca or tostadas con tomate closeup on the wooden board on the table. ... More Horizontal top view from above Some of the Asian options at Saba include Korean Bulgogi, sushi, sashimi and nigiri. Some Spanish options include classics such as pan con tomate, Jamon Iberico and fried Calamari. Zayt, the poolside bar, is producing some of the best fish- and vegetable-forward dishes, including tuna tacos, gazpacho and some really great pizzas. So, I was curious to speak to Aysla's director of food and beverage, Damiano Curro. All responses have been edited and condensed for clarity. Liza B. Zimmerman (L.B.Z.): Why have a Western and Asian menu? Gazpacho at Zayt. Damiano Curro (D.C.): Because we want to offer two types of cuisines in order to provide different experiences for our guests in house. L.B.Z.: How are the island's primarily ingredients involved in both menus? Dim sum at Saba. D.C.: In our Asian and Mediterranean menus, primary ingredients play a key role by showcasing the freshness and quality of locally sourced produce. We focus on using seasonal vegetables, herbs and proteins that reflect our region, while still honoring the traditional flavors of both cuisines. L.B.Z.: How is local seafood wrapped up in the menus? D.C.: Local seafood plays a central role in both our Asian and Mediterranean menus, highlighting the freshness and quality of the ingredients from our nearby coasts. We feature seasonal catch such as tuna, octopus, prawns, and local white fish, which are prepared using techniques and flavor profiles from both culinary traditions. L.B.Z.: What culinary synergies are involved in preparing them both? D.C.: There are several natural synergies involved in preparing both the Asian and Mediterranean menus as they feature many of the same ingredients but with different cooking techniques applied. L.B.Z.: How is the Asian menu linked to Spain or Kimpton's other properties (many of which are located in places like SF with great Asian food)?: Raw fresh Seafood Cocktail close up with Mussels, Clams, Vongole, Prawns and Shrimps D.C.: We create the connection through the seafood found in our local Spanish waters, which serves as a perfect base for many Asian-inspired dishes. L.B.Z.: How do locals and visitors order? Do they choose more Asian or local dishes? D.C.: Both concepts are highly appreciated by our in-house guests, especially because they have the opportunity to switch things up during their stay. L.B.Z.: Is this the first Kimpton property to do an East versus West menu? D.C.: We are the first European property to have an Asian restaurant concept in our hotel.
Times
2 days ago
- Times
22 of the best family hotels in the Maldives
Palm-painted paradise islands surrounded by concentric circles of the softest whitest sands; warm, calm, turquoise lagoons; and coral reefs populated with colourful little fishes — honeymooners may have originally claimed the Maldives as their own, but this country might have been made for families. Then there are the resorts, which go all-out to create memorable family holidays. Spacious villas often have private pools — and sometimes waterslides — and there's an endless array of fun-for-everyone activities from snorkelling to treasure hunts, to dolphin-spotting cruises, to watching baby turtles hatch on the beach. Kids' clubs have been taken to a new level, with giant pirate ships, climbing walls, 3D-printers, designer dress-up boxes, sustainability sessions and talks with marine biologists — leaving parents free to hit the spa, learn to dive, and indulge in candlelit meals beneath the stars. Whether you've got toddlers, tweens or teens in tow, follow our guide to the archipelago's best family hotels. This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue ££ | POOL | SPA | Best for an off-the-beaten-track stay The longer journey time to JA Manafaru — it takes a 90-minute domestic flight from the capital plus a 45-minute speedboat ride to reach the resort — is better suited to older kids with plenty of stamina. As is the resort, which has a seemingly endless array of outdoor activities, from cookery classes to parasailing, tennis, badminton and volleyball. Family villas come with private pools and the all-inclusive option is a boon for families, especially considering how good the food is. But the real star attraction here is the still untouched Haa Alif atoll, teeming with healthy multicoloured coral reefs, manta rays, turtles, eels and eagle rays. • Discover our full guide to the Maldives ££ | POOL | SPA | Best for tweens and teensThis swish island resort pulls off a neat trick, catering equally well to honeymooners, solo travellers and families. Found on swathes of clotted-cream beach or stilted over turquoise water, all of the villas are super-sized with private pools and acres of outdoor space, so the children can squeal and giggle without disturbing the neighbours. Adventurous programmes encourage munchkins to ditch the video games in favour of scouring the island in a series of puzzles and challenges — lizard-spotting, coral reef-scaping, wishing-tree walks — gaining stamps that can be traded in for toys and ice-cream sundaes.££ | POOL | SPA | Best for snorkelling Grab your bucket and spade — the big draw at this flamboyant resort is its magnificent white sand beach and sandbank, which swoops through the Baa Atoll like a comet. There's an inflatable waterpark set just offshore, a lagoon-shaped swimming pool and fantastic marine life with colourful corals and swirls of tropical fish in the house reef and spinner dolphins, sea turtles and manta rays all nearby. The Oceaneer's Club has a long list of daily activities — pirate workshops, sand art, kayaking competitions — and can throw birthday parties with gifts, games and cake.££ | POOL | SPA | Best for fashionable families Slick Patina Maldives has a few big draws for families. First, there's the location, just 45 minutes by speedboat from Malé. Then there's the sheer number of things to do. Patina is part of the Fari Islands, an artificial archipelago housing three resorts and a shared marina, with a beach club, water sports centre and multiple restaurants. The gently sloping main beach is sheltered on three sides, so it's always lake-calm and children get a free scuba-diving lesson, kayaks and paddleboard usage. The kids' club is a progressive affair, with mad science classes, 3D printers and Glowforge laser cutters. You'll find the entry-level villas aren't the largest but the two-bedroom pool villas are very spacious and can accommodate up to six guests.££ | POOL | SPA | Best for dolphin spottingThis contemporary luxury resort is set in a beautiful lagoon — complete with its very own mini blue hole — where spinner dolphins, sea turtles and manta rays swing by on a regular basis. The 67 villas — some on the beach and some over water — are spacious, with Hamptons-chic decor, big living rooms, private swimming pools and plenty of outdoor space. Happily, the Sultan's Village kids' club has some of the longest hours in the Maldives, from 9am until 8pm, and entertains with next-level sandcastle-making, kombucha classes and a Friday night disco.££ | POOL | SPA | Best for sustainable stays Everything at Gili Lankanfushi feels like an adventure, from the fantastical thatched-roof water villas, some of which are cast out in the Indian Ocean and can only be reached by boat, to mealtimes, which can involve fishing or foraging. The entire resort is big on conservation and promoting Maldivian culture and that extends to the kids' club, which puts on wild art classes using palm leaves and coconuts, underwater treasure hunts with a marine biologist and boduberu drumming classes. While they're busy, parents can head to the wonderful Meera Spa for some unravelling ayurvedic treatments. Read our full review of Gili Lankanfushi££ | POOL | SPA | Best for arty types It's not every island resort that has its own art gallery, never mind one that's underwater. But snorkel along Sirru Fen Fushi's shore and you'll find a semi-submerged steel box filled with mesmerising underwater sculptures, designed by Jason deCaires Taylor, which doubles as artificial coral reef. The artsy theme continues above the surface, where families can learn Maldivian painting techniques at art school and hang out in stylish family villas with private pools and free minibars. There's also miles of pearly beach and a kids' club for children aged four and above.££ | POOL | SPA | Best for turtles You're more likely to bump into sea turtles than guests on this sprawling jungly island in the remote Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Hawksbills, olive ridleys and green turtles make regular appearances, in the house reef but also along the shore and under the water villas — meaning you're pretty much guaranteed a daily sighting. It's attached to a sister resort by a kilometre-long wooden bridge and everyone gets around on bicycles, making runs from the beach to the gigantic infinity pool to cooking classes and the kids' club heaps of fun. Happily, you can reach it by commercial jet so you won't have to wrestle any nervous children onto a cramped seaplane.££ | POOL | SPA | Best for large families This forward-thinking eco-resort in the manta ray-teeming Baa Atoll has huge family villas with private pools, upstairs sun decks, direct beach access and up to nine bedrooms. It's big on facilities too; aside from its kids' club, The Den, there's a cookery school, a library, an outdoor cinema, a recycled glass-blowing studio, tennis courts and an observatory, where, on a clear night, you can marvel at the rings of Saturn. And then there are the animals: a veritable menagerie of fluffy rabbits, flapping chickens and fruit bats coursing around the island. Read our full review of Soneva Fushi££ | POOL | SPA | Best for personal service This family-friendly resort in dolphin-packed Shaviyani Atoll is primped and preened to sandy perfection, from the raked beaches and sea-view restaurants to the spa's glass-encased treatment rooms. It excels in the way it cares for families; the service is as warm as the Maldivian sun; duplex villas have two bedrooms, private pools and an upstairs den for movie nights; and the Little Griffins kids' club has a 13m pirate ship and over 100 activities a week. Babysitting is complimentary and children under the age of 12 eat for free. ££ | POOL | SPA | Best for little superstars This low-key resort in the Baa Atoll has a long list of loyal guests, including Madonna who visited for a family holiday with her six children. On arrival, little ones are given mini bathrobes and slippers, comics and books, a parrotfish soft toy and an indoor tepee. Later, those aged between 3 and 12 can check into the treehouse-themed kids' club, while teens can take part in foosball and volleyball competitions at the Coconut Club. The beach is a beauty, while the house reef is easy to access and in excellent shape, teeming with clown fish (Nemos), powder blue tang (Dorys) and sea turtles. • Read our full review of Vakkaru Maldives££ | POOL | SPA | Best for energetic families Run by a smashing team, Ritz Kids is hidden inside a Teletubbies-style grassy knoll with a mega-climbing frame, swimming pool, water slides and water jets at its centre, while indoor spaces include a gaming room and napping pods. For older children, there's a separate activity centre with pool tables and a photography studio. The whole family can enjoy cycling around nearly two miles of sandy lanes and at the excellent Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment programme (the only one in the Maldives) you can learn about ocean conservation using drones and underwater robots.£ | POOL | SPA | Best for affordable fun It's unusual to find a resort in the Maldives that brings anything other than pricy private villas, but this large, cheerful resort in the barely developed Dhaalu Atoll has more affordable rooms and family-sized apartments, as well as water villas and beach villas. Children under the age of six can stay and eat for free (every restaurant, including the fine-dining restaurant and the teppanyaki grill, have children's menus) and there's an action-packed kids' club, Kandiland, with a climbing wall, trampoline and waterpark, open from 9am to 7pm every day.£ | POOL | SPA | Best for sporty types Parents will love the hip Ibiza-esque design, feel-good spa treatments and choice of five different bars. Children, meanwhile, will love the club houses (one for wee tykes and one for teens), beach sports and adventure trips. The all-inclusive is likely to keep everyone smiling; it covers everything from tennis and yoga classes to in-room minibars and barista-made coffee, as well as unlimited ice cream and non-motorised watersports. Family lagoon villas are the accommodation of choice, rolling straight onto bright white beach and into placid Tiffany-blue waters. Read our full review of Lux* South Ari Atoll£££ | POOL | SPA | Best for budding marine biologists At Six Senses Laamu children can learn to be a marine biologist before they even get their feet wet, with a free ten-week junior marine biologist online programme, video tutorials, downloadable colouring-in books and worksheets, and home experiments. Any newfound skills can be put into action when they arrive in the remote Laamu Atoll (which also doubled as Planet Scarif in the Star Wars movie Rogue One), with swims through fields of seagrass (the favourite food of green sea turtles), snorkels with manta rays and kayak tours through shadowy mangroves.££ | POOL | SPA | Best for keeping little ones entertained The five-star Sun Siyam Iru Fushi provides plenty of creature comforts for stressed-out parents — not least its award-winning Balinese-style spa — as well as a dedicated kids' club to keep youngsters entertained too. They can burn off energy thanks to ping-pong, billiard tables and splashing about in the family pool, while parents can escape to the hair salon, enjoy wellness and yoga sessions, and swim in the adult-only pool. Live entertainment and DJ sets — and enough restaurants to dine somewhere different each night for a fortnight — mean that any little ones are unlikely to get bored. You can opt to go all-inclusive, though options for B&B, half-board, and full-board holidays are available too. Up to two children can stay and eat on the same basis as their parents, free of charge.££ | POOL | SPA | Best for TikTokkersThis easy-to-access property in the north Malé Atoll, a 50-minute speedboat ride from the airport, has some of the biggest entry-level beach and water villas in the Maldives. Every villa comes with a large private infinity pool and a rooftop deck perfect for family movie nights complete with boxes of popcorn. Access to the kids' club (open to children aged from three to 11, from 9am until 7pm) is included in the rate and kayaks, SUPs and other non-motorised water sports are free to use, as are the tennis courts and football pitch.££ | POOL | SPA | Best for water babiesIt's not every resort in the Maldives that has manta rays in the backyard — in fact, it's pretty rare to find the creatures outside of certain atolls at certain times of year — but cross the bridge that links the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island's two beautiful all-natural islands and the chances are you'll spot at least a couple of the magnificent mobulidae pirouetting along the surface. Book a boat trip and you'll also encounter whale sharks, green sea turtles and dolphins. Back on land, there's a complimentary kids' club for three to 12-year-olds and plenty of free activities for older kids, including scuba diving intros in the pool and windsurfing along the beach. Food won't be an issue either, with 12 superb dining options, including underwater restaurant Ithaa.££ | POOL | SPA | Best for beachIt's sandcastle heaven at this pretty island resort located in the Maldives' northern Lhaviyani Atoll. The natural island is ringed by a long band of broad white sand flecked with coral, seashells and tiny hermit crabs, which gently slopes into the warm shallow Indian Ocean — perfect for tots. All of the villas come with outdoor space but the beach villas feel more spacious, even if the decor is a bit businesslike. The kids' club, with its soft play area and slides, allows parents to enjoy some grown-up time at the adult-only pool and excellent spa.£££ | POOL | SPA | Best for action-packed all-inclusive There's no shortage of all-inclusive resorts nowadays but Ozen Reserve Bolifushi is a cut above the rest in terms of facilities and value for money. The island itself is large enough to comfortably accommodate 91 pool villas, including water villas with slides whooshing into the ocean, as well as a communal infinity pool, a sea-facing gym, an ice-skating rink, an overwater spa, a kids' club and a teens' lounge. The Reserve Plan includes all five restaurants, theme nights, unlimited champagne and aged whiskies, free laundry and a spoiling three hours of daily spa treatments.£££ | POOL | SPA | Best for laid-back luxury This hip luxury resort is the place for a family holiday that feels more personalised than some of the big international chains. The kids' club at Joali has especially long opening hours, from 9am to 8pm, and every activity is complimentary, from cooking classes and ceramic art classes to tennis coaching and DJ workshops. All of the cathedral-like villas come with private infinity pools and there are a number of two, three and four-bedroom residences available if you want to bring the whole clan. No one will go hungry or thirsty either, with five restaurants, a sunset bar, a whisky and cigar lounge and an ice-cream parlour to choose from. Read our full review of Joali Maldives£££ | POOL | SPA | Best for heirs to the throne If Succession's Kendall Roy built a private island escape it might look something like this oval-shaped island in the resplendent Noonu Atoll. Aside from having its own private seaplane, and the requisite supersized luxury villas, Velaa packs in a wealth of facilities, including a golf academy and seven-hole course designed by José María Olazábal, a holistic overwater spa with a snow room, and space-age restaurant tower with a secret wine cellar. Heirs to the throne are catered to with a kids' club that has its own waterpark; water jet boot lessons with staff dressed as superheroes (Spider-Man, Superman, Iron Man); and padel lessons with ex-tennis pros on fan-cooled courts. • When is the best time to visit the Maldives?• Discover the best overwater villas in the Maldives• Read about the best hotels in the Maldives Additional reporting by Hannah Summers
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Qatar expected to invest $4bln in Egypt tourism project: report
Qatar is expected to pump nearly $4 billion into a major tourism project involving resorts and luxury houses on the Northwestern Egyptian Mediterranean coast, a Saudi news website reported on Monday. The project is located in Ras Alam El-Rum town and will span an area of around 240,000 square metres, the Arabic language site Asharq said. It quoted two unidentified Egyptian government officials as saying Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), the Gulf country's sovereign wealth fund, will fund the project which includes resorts, luxury houses, shopping malls, yacht marina and other facilities. The report said the development is similar to Ras Al-Hekma project, which is undertaken by ADQ, the Abu Dhabi investment holding company. ADQ said last year it would pump $35 billion into the project on the Northern Egyptian coast, making it the largest foreign investment in the Arab nation. Phase 1 of the QIA project includes the operation of 20-25 percent of its area, the report said, adding that Egypt's government will be entitled for 15 percent of the revenues. 'Measures are under way to allocate the land for the project and issue the necessary licenses…it will be announced this year in case the negotiations between the two sides are successful,' it said. The reported project coincides with an intensified drive by Cairo to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to stimulate its economy and tackle debt and fiscal deficits. Officials have said the target is to receive $42 billion FDI during the 2025-2026 fiscal year, which started on 1 July. In a report last week, the US-based Institute of International Finance (IIF) urged Egypt to speed up privatisation and reform of public enterprises to ensure continued support by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Gulf oil producers. (Writing by Nadim Kawach; Editing by Anoop Menon) (
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Yahoo
10 Family-Friendly Caribbean Resorts That Cater to the Whole Crew
PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and some items may be gifted to us. Additionally, PureWow may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here. You can learn more about that process here. Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below. Read the original article on Purewow. The Caribbean is probably one of the most appealing destinations for a family vacation. For starters, there's sunshine, warm weather and beautiful waters; plus the air travel is a lot easier than going to, say, the Mediterranean. I've been to several Caribbean destinations, both with and without my two children, and am here to report on my favorite stays, as well as a few others that have received high reviews from happy travelers and PureWow editors alike. Without further ado, here are the ten best family-friendly Caribbean resorts. Pick the one that's right for you and get ready to have the time of your life in the tropics. 17 Amazing Affordable All-Inclusive Resorts Vetted by a Travel Editor 1. Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe (Cancun, Mexico) Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe When it comes to luxury resorts in Cancun, you'll be spoiled for choice. That said, this is the only all-inclusive that I can personally vouch for, having stayed there just last year with my 10-year-old for a mother-daughter trip that we won't soon forget. I highly recommend upgrading your stay to the 'enclave' level, which allows for special VIP privileges, including exclusive access to rooftop pools with stunning views and a bar that serves some of the best ceviche I have ever tasted. Other highlights include the pristine beach and the pool layout, which is designed with the needs of families in mind. (There's a mini water park with multiple slides and a fun, bucket-dumping feature that kept my daughter entertained for hours, while I watched from the comfort of the neighboring adult pool and swim-up bar.) Aside from the aforementioned splash pad, my daughter says the best part of the stay was the kids' club. The warm and caring staff were amazing—the engagement was genuine, the activities were fun and exciting and she made close friends after only visiting the club a couple of times. For all these reasons and more, the Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe gets a 10/10 from me and my tween when it comes to all-inclusive resorts that cater to kids and adults alike. book now 2. Viva Miches by Wyndham (Miches, Dominican Republic Viva Resorts By Wyndham You'd be hard pressed to find a better deal in the Caribbean than this all-inclusive resort in the remote (read: under-the-radar) region of Miches. The hotel is one of very few in the area and it's a trek from the main tourist hub of Punta Cana, which means that you can expect a truly tranquil tropical stay with unspoilt beaches and plenty of opportunities to escape the hubbub of the resort. My children and I actually just returned from our five-day stay at Viva Miches, so I'm in a very good position to provide an authentic review of this brand new and very promising resort. Read on for the highlights and areas for improvement. Needless to say, when planning a family vacation the all-inclusive aspect (including unlimited alcoholic beverages) is a major bonus. Viva Miches does it right by including family-friendly water activities, like kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkeling in the package, a kids' club that my own children have deemed as 'the best one ever,' as well as nightly, family-friendly entertainment. (Note: The entertainment team does a truly stellar job, but the programming starts a tad late, so if you're traveling with younger kids, you will need to disrupt bedtime a bit in order to enjoy it to the fullest.) The pool is wonderful and the beach even better—I highly recommend you take advantage of the remote location and wander beyond the resort boundaries and walk the mile of untouched and blessedly quiet coastline. As for the food, there are real winners and a few things that are meh. (Guests do also remark on having difficulties booking a la carte restaurant reservations.) Nevertheless, I appreciated that, although there was no room service available, there was always somewhere to eat at any time of day or night. That said, the resort would do well to streamline the dining side of things and increase its staff so that wait times at the buffet and pool bar are less. book now 3. The Cliff Hotel (Negril, Jamaica) The Cliff Hotel The Cliff Hotel is an award-winning and very well-appointed resort that boasts amazing pools, cliffside swimming, sweeping views of the Caribbean, a five-star restaurant and spa, and a decidedly calmer atmosphere than other nearby options. It's typically a top choice for honeymooners, but I have it on good authority (having stayed there myself) that it's well-suited to low-key family vacations, too—particularly if you're traveling with teenagers or slightly older kids. The property itself has adjoining suites to accommodate families, and the kid-friendly pool has a shallow end that starts at only one foot deep. Perhaps the best part of this property, however, is its location, which is central to any and all family-friendly activities that Negril has to offer. I also think it's a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a little romance and wellness after a busy day with the brood. Bottomline: this is the place to stay if you're looking for a family-friendly resort in Jamaica with more grown-up appeal than most. book now 4. Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba (Oranjestad, Aruba) Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba I spent four wonderful days at the Renaissance Wind Creek last spring and it was one of the most memorable resort experiences I have ever had and probably one of the very best in Aruba. The sprawling property consists of two different hotels—one only for adults and another family-friendly one—but guests have access to the amenities at both. My suggestion? Drop your brood off at the kids club and walk over to the other hotel to do some shopping, play some blackjack at the casino or luxuriate in the adults-only rooftop pools. Then, reunite for a scrapbook-worthy beach day at Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba's island, a whimsical and truly magical private beach escape where flamingos roam freely and other native wildlife can be spotted under the lush tree cover of the winding footpaths. The island's private beach is immaculate and there's always ample seating, though I highly recommend booking one of the private cabanas, which are stocked with every amenity under the sun and provide direct access to the crystal clear Caribbean waters below. book now 5. Garza Blanca Cancun (Costa Mujeres, Mexico) Garza Blanca Cancun Editor-in-chief Jillian Quint visited this luxury resort with her family and raved about the generously-sized rooms, gorgeous views and relaxed atmosphere. 'Here, the beach is pristine, the pools are abundant (each one calibrated to a different temperature), and the vibe is palm-tree-casual meets penthouse-luxury, with rattan chairs and woven hammocks against marble floors and gold deco flourishes,' she says. Garza Blanca Cancun is decidedly more serene than some of its hotel zone neighbors—think plush daybeds, impeccable service and a general air of low-key indulgence that makes it feel exclusive without being pretentious. As for amenities, families are sure to appreciate the suite-style accommodations (hello, in-room washer/dryer!), the impressive range of dining options and the verifiably awesome kids' club. The TL;DR? If you're looking for a refined but family-friendly escape, this one is hard to beat. book now 6. Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic) Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana The Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana is my top recommendation in Punta Cana, as the luxe, all-inclusive property boasts breathtaking ocean views and a ton of wellness-oriented activities, including top-notch spa treatments and amazing yoga classes, to boot. When I stayed there last year, the private beach was spotless and the water was blessedly seaweed-free. Best of all, both the beach and pool areas, while very popular among the many guests, aren't constantly blasting club music—a common resort feature that I can't stand because it detracts from the adult relaxation vibes, which are already hard to come by when traveling with kids. During my stay, the room was comfortable, the food was great and the service was impeccable; plus, the variety of activities on offer ensures that everyone in your brood will have something to look forward to. My only word of caution is to bring bug spray and use it liberally: there are sand flies here and it's not an issue with the resort—you'll encounter this wherever you stay in the Caribbean—but if you're new to the DR, you'd be wise to heed the warning because those buggers can really go to town. book now 7. Rosewood Baha Mar (Nassau, Bahamas) Rosewood Baha Mar Situated on the white sands of Nassau's famous Cable Beach, this gem stands out for its uniquely serene beachfront atmosphere and lavish amenities. By all accounts, the rooms are incredibly well-appointed and family-friendly amenities, like the kids' club and water park, are a big hit among happy guests. Indeed, our review highlights the abundance of entertainment available: 'There is always something exciting for everyone to do at Baha Mar, even if it's raining. Between the casino, kids' club, The Game Zone and restaurants, there are so many choices on offer. You never have to leave the property!' That said, I'd be remiss not to mention that some reviews complain about the high cost of food and beverage, as well as the spotty service that accompanies it. In other words, your brood will have a blast—but you might still leave with a little bit of buyer's remorse. book now 8. Goldwynn Resort and Residences (Nassau, Bahamas) Goldwynn Resorts This luxury resort on Cable Beach stands out for its spacious, modern rooms and prime beachfront location within close proximity to local attractions. There's a gorgeous infinity pool that guests rave about and the overall vibe is described as serene and sophisticated. Goldwynn Resort doesn't have a ton of amenities specifically for kids; however, families will certainly appreciate the free water sports on offer, as well as the well-appointed rooms with kitchenettes and full kitchens (depending on which type you book). Indeed, we stayed here recently and really loved the kitchens—you know, because 'having breakfast on the balcony overlooking the ocean is a great way to start your day'—but you can read the full review here. book now 9. Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya Resort (Tulum, Mexico) Hilton Tulum This sprawling, all-inclusive resort sits right on a secluded bay where families will find pristine, sandy shores and gentle waters. You won't be wanting for amenities, either, since this resort has nine pools, a water park, 13 restaurants and a family zone. The slightly more remote location affords guests a quieter stay than some of the overcrowded options in Cancun, and the property is still within a short drive of many nearby attractions, ranging from caves to amusement parks. book now 10. Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa (Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands) Kimpton Seafire Resort Kimpton Seafire Resort gets high marks for family-friendly amenities, including many on-site activities for all ages, a water park and more. The glowing five-star reviews compliment the resort on everything from impeccable service to exceptional rooms and beyond. Honestly, it's very hard to find a resort that has so many five star reviews, since most people can find some flaws wherever they stay when they've shelled out the big bucks. This resort seems to have earned its consistently awesome ratings so they must be doing something (read: everything) right. Oh, and did I mention that its oceanfront location right on the world famous Seven Mile Beach is pretty hard to beat? Let's just say this one checks all the boxes. book now Here's Everything I Pack for a Family of 4 in a Single Carry-On & Backpack (Without Losing My Mind)
Times
7 days ago
- Times
17 of the best hotels in Sardinia
Upliftingly for somewhere with such a well-known bevy of beautiful beaches, Sardinia has largely resisted over-development. Even when its resorts are large, for instance — and many are, in fact, uncommonly small — they have been carefully built to fit in with the landscape. That means mostly low-rise buildings alongside the Med-lapped sand, or unobtrusive additions to nature reserve. Elsewhere, Sardinia's best hotels also include traditional stone houses facing vineyards, mountain-set creative retreats with a hippie vibe and an art nouveau villa in the capital, Cagliari. There are places that will delight everyone from couples to families, foodies to keen walkers, located from the glitzy Costa Smeralda to the quieter south coast and the escapist La Maddalena island. This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue ££ | SPA | POOL This south-coast resort overlooks a lagoon occupied by a flamboyance of flamingos and is sandwiched between two of the Chia coast's most beautiful beaches; Monte Cogoni and Campana Dune are both reached by a free shuttle. Designed to sit seamlessly within its natural environment, the hotel itself is low-rise with 107 rooms split across two areas, one zoned for families. There's an ample supply of activities and restaurants, including sushi restaurant and lounge Flow.£ | POOL Book one of six rooms at this traditional stone house in the island's north and you'll feel like you're holidaying at the country retreat of a friend with impeccable taste. Service is relaxed and personal: instead of a restaurant, guests dine 'family-style' on a terrace with views over surrounding vineyards. Decor is both chic and traditional — wooden furniture and whitewashed walls — while the 20m pool is a knockout, set within rolling green lawns and fringed with fragrant rosemary bushes. Hosts can also arrange massages and cookery lessons on request. £££ | SPA | POOL This most recent addition to the Italian luxury hotel chain sits within the Tavolara marine reserve, an extraordinarily scenic strip of coastline even by Sardinia's high standards — the nearby cove of Cala Brandinchi is entirely deserving of its nickname, 'Little Tahiti'. The resort's interiors are equally appealing — from the restrained colour scheme of creams and greys, enhanced by pieces by local artisans, to the dreamy daybeds dotted around three swimming pools. Its 78 rooms range from spacious accommodation for families to dazzling sea-view suites, and there are two restaurants — one, Gusto by Sadler, has a Michelin star.££ | SPA | POOL The only Relais & Chateaux property in Sardinia, every inch of this hillside resort inclines its guests towards relaxation. Its 25 rooms are spread across traditional stone cottages, and suites all have private heated pools. Interiors blend seamlessly with the earthy tones of the surrounding landscape, and the resort's two restaurants encourage languorous meals. Both use ingredients from the owner's farm, which can be visited on a private tour and tasting experience — alternatively, book a spot on their day cruiser for a trip around local islands.£ | POOL Situated in the idyllic rural village of San Pantaleo, just a 20-minute drive inland from the Costa Smeralda beaches and resorts, this exceptionally pretty four-star hotel sits against a backdrop of craggy peaks and lush vegetation. The inside is charming too, with stone walls in shades of ochre and gnarled wooden beams, while its 35 rooms are finished with terracotta tiles and natural fabrics — the best with a balcony or terrace. Staff provide warm and discreet service, and an infinity pool adds to the sanctuary-esque atmosphere.££ | SPA | POOL This little island just off Sardinia has few upmarket hotels, but this relative newcomer — its only five-star offering — makes a good base for exploration of the Maddalena archipelago. Rooms here are decorated in high Italian style and the adults-only resort has all the amenities expected by holidaying urbanites: a spa with sauna, Turkish bath and heated pool, plus a cocktail bar, pizza joint and fine-dining restaurant. The real draws are all outside, though — just beyond the lovely pool there are countless pristine beaches to sunbathe on.£ In a quiet residential district of Sardinia's capital and surrounded by gardens, this art nouveau villa offers a greater sense of respite than staying downtown — though it's only a five-minute walk from the action. Inside, the look is restrained: a mix of pale walls and exposed brickwork and beams, plus monochrome details and original artworks. Of the 19 rooms, the best is a suite with its own hammam and sauna. Well-placed for airport departures and arrivals, it's also less than a 20-minute drive from Poetto beach, a four-mile stretch of sand beloved by visitors and locals alike. • Best family hotels in Sardinia• Best luxury villas in Sardinia ££ | SPA | POOL Su Gologone is a mountain retreat and creative enclave that offers guests everything from movies under the stars to cookery classes. Whitewashed rooms showcase local crafts and textiles, while traditional Sardinian dishes and wines are served on delightful terraces and in the herb garden. There are 65 rooms and suites and ample amusements for their occupants — including a 25m pool, tennis courts and mini golf course — while those in search of a sandy beach can make the 30-minute drive to the coast.££ | POOL This country estate is a mere hop from a prized north-coast stretch of beach, but feels a world away. It was once a farm and guests can expect well-spaced rooms and suites that look out over olive groves and fruit trees. Interior features such as wooden beams and terracotta floors pay homage to its rustic roots, but overall the look is one of restrained elegance — the pool, surrounded by perfect lawns, is particularly appealing. Meanwhile, the restaurant makes excellent use of abundant local produce, with a special tasting menu of local dishes such as Sardinian gnocchi with sausage sauce.£ In the historic centre of one of the biggest towns in the Medio Campidano province, this small three-star property is a rare departure from the prevailing local hotel aesthetic, with a modish look combining stripped floorboards, Chesterfield-style red sofas and industrial light fittings. Good-sized family rooms and a garden make it an excellent choice for those travelling with children to see the sights of the interior — it's only a 20-minute drive from Su Nuraxi (a megalithic complex and Sardinia's only world heritage site), and even closer to the thermal waters of Sardara.££ | SPA | POOL This characterful hotel is hidden among the lush foliage of a tropical-style garden and each room has a small terrace from where you can enjoy the view. The rooms are simple but well-sized, and shared spaces feature items brought back from the owner's extensive travels. Staff are friendly; they'll be happy to book excursions or get you a table at a recommended restaurant in Pula, though there's a bar on site serving tempting snacks such as Sardinian-style flatbread. After a day exploring excellent beaches and crystalline waters in the Bay of Chia, you can recuperate in the bijou spa.£ Seaside Alghero is one of the island's best-preserved medieval cities, and this low-key three-star property is one of few hotels in the historic centre, offering excellent value for money for those on a budget. Housed in a former monastery, it remains peaceful, with 20 simply furnished but comfortable rooms — be sure to book one with windows opening on to the courtyard. In summer, the hotel hosts classical concerts, which guests can enjoy for free — glass of local wine in hand — from a seat in one of the cloisters.£ | POOL Opened in 2023, this low-rise hotel is beautifully integrated into the rugged surrounding Sardinian landscape, its pool hewn amid pale rockface and surrounded by a smattering of trees. Delightfully far-flung — it's about 30 miles from both the coast and the city of Olbia — this is a place built for rest and recuperation. Its wellness offer includes activities such as yoga classes or bike and walking tours, as well as massage, a hot tub and a 'zero kilometre' breakfast. The 12 rooms — all doubles, bar one junior suite — are pale and sanctuary-like, making abundant use of natural materials such as wood and marble.£££ | SPA | POOL This extensively renovated, ultra-lux Belmond property is designed for villeggiatura: an extended stay in a single location for the sole purpose of rest and recreation, here made effortless by service so attentive it's practically preemptive. Like former guests Grace Kelly and Princess Margaret, the hotel possesses an aura of timeless glamour: its sinuous white architecture complemented by lush gardens and geometric decorations drawn by Sardinian artisans. Its two exceptional restaurants also showcase bold local flavours; there's a private beach and two pools, and the villas have private pools. ££ | SPA | POOL Four-star Le Sabine, one of several hotels within the Le Dune resort, provides the best value of the many upmarket options geared towards those in search of a straightforward family holiday. Those with children will find absolutely everything they need on site, including multiple pools and playgrounds and activities to satisfy all comers, from aspiring medieval knights (riding and archery) to ardent underwater adventurers (snorkelling and scuba diving). Rooms are well kitted-out and decorated in neutral pastel shades, set among gardens replete with colourful planting and surrounded on all sides by blue-flag beaches. £££ | SPA | POOL This resort is so huge that it comprises not one but two hotels, and the facilities here are an embarrassment of riches: among them a kids' club, seven restaurants and four swimming pools (have your own Wham! video moment in the one with a swim-up bar). Despite its size, it feels unobtrusive within the surrounding landscape — its 271 rooms and suites are spread across low-lying structures and are made from the granite rock characteristic of the area. Spectacular natural formations of this stone are a short drive away in Capo Testa, but with yoga classes, a golf course and water sports all available on site, you may never make it that far. Read our full review of Valle dell'Erica Thalasso and Spa Resort ££ | POOL Set between two sandy beaches, this family-run four-star property is classically Mediterranean in look, with Moorish arches and Sardinian-made ceramics and furniture. More than half of its 89 rooms have a village or sea view, and the five best suites have private infinity pools overlooking the coast. The shared pool has an almost-as-lovely aspect and is mere steps away from the hotel's private beach, where guests can book in for a massage in a linen-shrouded gazebo. The restaurant is also a highlight, serving a modern take on local dishes — and yet more ocean views. • Best things to do in Sardinia• Best places to visit in Italy Additional reporting by Richard Mellor Have we missed any? Let us know in the comments
