Latest news with #resorts
Telegraph
10 hours ago
- Health
- Telegraph
Escape to paradise: luxurious beach hotels for ultimate relaxation
There's nothing quite like escaping to a luxurious beachfront retreat, where the sound of waves, indulgent spa treatments and world-class hospitality create the perfect setting for relaxation. Whether you're seeking a tranquil wellness escape or a lavish family-friendly getaway, Best At Travel has rounded up a selection of stunning resorts to inspire your next holiday. Shangri-La Le Touessrok, Mauritius Following an extensive refurbishment, Shangri-La Le Touessrok offers a fresh, contemporary design. Nestled on Trou d'Eau Douce, it boasts six secluded beaches, uninterrupted ocean views and a private island retreat at Ilot Mangénie. Golfers can enjoy complimentary green fees at Ile Aux Cerfs and Anahita Golf Club, while guests can indulge in premium dining, complimentary aqua sports and heartfelt Mauritian hospitality. Raffles The Palm Dubai A palatial retreat on Palm Jumeirah, Raffles The Palm Dubai is synonymous with grandeur and indulgence. Featuring Dubai's largest swimming pool, a private cinema and 24-hour butler service, it ensures unparalleled luxury. Club room guests enjoy exclusive Raffles Club Lounge access, with three daily food offerings and evening aperitivi. Exclusive Club Level offer: stay for seven nights, pay for six. Complimentary half board, Club Lounge access & benefits, plus children under 12 stay free. Atlantis The Royal, Dubai Atlantis The Royal Dubai sets a new standard for luxury with its architectural design and 17 world-class restaurants, including venues led by celebrity chefs such as Heston Blumenthal and Nobu Matsuhisa. For relaxation, Awaken Wellness offers a Hammam Sensorium, while Cloud 22, a 90m rooftop infinity pool club, provides panoramic views. Guests also receive complimentary access to the world's largest waterpark at Aquaventure World. Special offer: save up to £200 per person, complimentary access to Aquaventure World and The Lost Chambers Aquarium. Cap Maison, Saint Lucia An intimate five-star boutique resort, Cap Maison offers private villa suites, many with rooftop pools. Guests can enjoy fine dining at The Cliff at Cap or Caribbean flavours at The Naked Fisherman Beach Bar & Grill. The Champagne Zipline delivers bubbly via zipline to a private oceanfront table, while adventurers can explore the walk-in wine cellar or set sail on a private 46-foot resort boat. Special Offer: save up to 20 per cent. Banyan Tree Dubai Located on Bluewaters Island, Banyan Tree Dubai boasts a 500m private beach, moments from Ain Dubai (Dubai Eye). Guests enjoy half-board dine-around at seven restaurants and relax in three outdoor pools, including an adults-only pool. Wellness seekers can embrace daily yoga, meditation and the Rainforest hydrotherapy experience, while the exclusive I-Dom Bed (Infrared Dom) enhances relaxation. Special offer: save up to 35 per cent, plus a complimentary upgrade to half board (three-course set menu), AED 150 spa credit per room and complimentary Ain Dubai tickets. Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah Synonymous with timeless luxury, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah provides a serene escape with panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. Families will love the Kid's Club, shaded kids' pool and Once Upon a Brunch Saturdays, while guests can unwind in spacious sea-facing rooms featuring marble bathrooms and signature bedding. Indulge in award-winning spa excellence and luxurious facilities designed for ultimate relaxation, elevating every stay into a rejuvenating retreat. Special offer: save up to 40 per cent, plus children stay free on an all-inclusive basis. The St. Regis Le Morne Resort, Mauritius Set against the Unesco-listed Le Morne mountain, this all-suite retreat, inspired by the summer homes of the Astors, features 172 suites, each with private terraces or balconies. Guests enjoy legendary butler service, signature St. Regis Timeless Rituals and Exquisite Experiences designed for modern tastemakers. Special offer: save up to 30 per cent, plus complimentary half board. Pangkor Laut Resort, Malaysia Set on a private island, Pangkor Laut Resort is a tropical sanctuary where luxury meets nature. Guests can unwind on Emerald Bay, a secluded beach with powder-soft sand and crystal-clear waters. The award-winning Spa Village offers traditional wellness treatments, while dining showcases fresh seafood, Malaysian specialities, and international flavours. Whether indulging in a sunset cruise, rainforest trek, or a private dining experience, every moment feels indulgent. Special offer: save up to £350 per person, plus enjoy a 50-minute couples spa treatment per stay. Turn inspiration into reality Best At Travel brings dream holidays to life with expertly curated escapes tailored to your every need. With exclusive offers on the world's finest luxury and spa resorts, their UK-based travel experts – trusted for nearly 40 years – ensure every detail is seamlessly planned. Rated 4.9 on Trustpilot, their commitment to exceptional service makes holiday planning effortless and as an Atol-protected operator, they provide complete peace of mind. Open seven days a week, their team is always ready to craft your perfect getaway. Call 020 3813 9306 or visit today and let the journey begin. Offers correct at time of publication and subject to availability. Visit Best At Travel website for the latest, most up-to-date pricing. This content is provided by an advertiser, and while every care is taken in ensuring the content complies with the Advertising Standards Authority and the UK Code of Non-broadcast Advertising and Direct & Promotional Marketing (CAP Code), Telegraph Media Group assumes no responsibility in the effect rising therefrom, and readers are advised to seek professional advice before acting on any information. The Daily Telegraph/TMG does not accept any liability for views expressed, pictures used or claims made by advertisers.
Hospitality Net
2 days ago
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Lost Guests Are Hurting Revenue: Fix Your Navigation Challenge Before Summer Break
Guests arrive, download your app, and are ready to explore. But instead of discovering everything your resort offers, they get stuck. They ask for directions. They miss out on experiences they would have enjoyed, or head off-site because they didn't realise what was nearby. All because you can't guide them there. This quiet friction frustrates guests, shortens dwell time, and leaves revenue untapped. Many resorts still rely on outdated PDFs or static maps to help guests find their rooms and facilities, creating dead ends in what should be a seamless guest experience. "When guests get lost, they don't just get frustrated. They skip in-house dining, retail, and the premium activities you crafted to enhance their stay," explains Peter O'Dare, VP of Product at "This is more than a guest experience issue. It's costing operators money." Wayfinding isn't just about getting from A to B. It's a strategic tool that can influence where guests go, how long they stay, and how much they spend. To help operators address their navigation challenges before the summer surge, is hosting a short 30-minute webinar on June 12th: "The Resort Operator's Guide to Wayfinding." The session, led by Peter and Sales Manager René Ronk, will start at 10 am. ET and show resort and guest experience leaders how real-time, GPS-enabled navigation—delivered through their existing mobile app—can unlock immediate wins. Used by resorts like Haven, Baha Mar, and Six Flags, MapLayr integrates seamlessly into guest apps to provide branded, intuitive blue-dot wayfinding that eliminates confusion and highlights key locations. Attendees will learn how to: Remove guest friction with real-time navigation Increase traffic to high-value zones like dining, retail, and premium activities Launch fast using their current app with no rebuild required Used by hundreds of venues worldwide, MapLayr is already helping operators make mapping guests' most-loved app feature, and a key revenue lever. Click here to register for the live webinar. And get the recording delivered directly to your inbox if you can't make it on the day. Ellen Kasinopoulou Head of Marketing 01889 560218
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Travel + Leisure
4 days ago
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
The Ultimate Egypt Packing List, According to a Cairo Resident
My husband and I have been living in Cairo, Egypt, for a year and a half, and we also had our first daughter since we moved here. Between the city's summers with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees and cooler winter days in the 60s, I've experienced the country's extreme desert climates and dress accordingly, all while navigating motherhood. Additionally, I've developed a list of my must-have items based on some of my favorite things to do here, like playing golf and going to the beach. (Despite being a desert, Egypt has some of the best resort towns I've ever seen.) All in all, don't underestimate the variety of essentials you'll need for your Egyptian adventure. Ahead, you'll find everything I never leave home without—and tell visitors to pack—including sightseeing necessities. Quick Tips It typically takes a while to get checked bags at Cairo International Airport so consider traveling carry-on only, when possible. Pack loose-fitting clothing and layers to deal with heat and modesty considerations. Always stash a pack of wipes as many public bathrooms don't have toilet paper. Packing Checklist for Egypt Clothing Shoes and Accessories Gear and Other Essentials Clothing As a cosmopolitan city, people wear a range of attire; Even though you can get away with shorter silhouettes common at home, I prefer longer lightweight clothing that protects me from the sun's strong rays. When packing, I begin by laying out my suitcase, toiletry bag, and packing cubes. Then, from dresses to socks, I organize my packing cubes based on the items inside them. Before moving here, I stocked up on affordable white and beige-colored linen pieces from cult-favorite brand Quince. Additionally, this Marcella midi-dress became my go-to as you can easily dress it up for brunch at the one-of-a-kind KHUFU's restaurant in front of the pyramids or an afternoon at the underrated Gayer Anderson museum, located right next to the must-visit medieval Ibn Tulun mosque. When out and about, you won't draw attention if your knees are covered. Many people wear sleeveless tops and dresses, especially if it's really hot outside, except at religious sites where you'll be denied entry at a mosque if your knees, shoulders, and head (for women) aren't covered. The only other thing I highly recommend having is sun-protective clothing, or at least investing in a swimsuit with built-in UPF. Shoes and Accessories Between the dust and the lack of sidewalks, your shoes will get dirty. If you love the breezy, all-white monochromatic look like me, this is something I live with when I rock my white Veja sneakers and matching linen set. For the days when I want to switch things up, I break out my comfy Rothy's flats, which I'm not afraid to mess up since the brand is beloved for machine-washable footwear. As noted, a woman will have to cover her head with a scarf, and everyone has to take off their shoes when visiting a mosque, so I suggest wearing shoes with socks. Sometimes the mosque will have plastic covers that look like shower caps you can place over your shoes, or there are cubbies where you can leave your pair behind. If you opt for either, just bring small bills as the attendant will ask you for a tip. To avoid this, you may be able to simply carry your shoes with you as you tour the mosque. Other accessories I finish my looks with are my tan baseball cap that doesn't get dirty easily and my Ray-ban Meta glasses. Between climbing in and out of the pyramids and having to be extra alert when crossing the busy, pedestrian light-free streets, the protective eyewear is a great way to stay hands-free without missing memorable moments as I can take photos with a click of button. Gear and Other Essentials Cairo is a spread-out city with heavy traffic, depending on the time of day, so it's best to have everything you need with you. (The roads are pretty clear early in the morning on the weekends, which are Friday and Saturday, as Egypt follows the Islamic calendar. Keep in mind that this schedule will affect the time sites are open.) All in all, you won't last a full sightseeing day without a water bottle, sunscreen (which is important to consistently reapply), and a portable charger because extreme heat can affect your battery life. I also like to treat myself to a Dior balm that can revitalize and moisturize my hands, body, and lips—plus, it smells fantastic. And since there may not be soap or toilet paper in the public bathrooms, I always have the Aesop rinse-free hand wash and Goodwipes with me. In addition, while Cairo is lined with coffee and dessert shops, there's often no place to grab a quick bite at the major sites outside of the capital city, so I rely on snacks in my bag for a pick-me-up. These must-haves and more all pile into my Dagne Dover backpack that doubles as a diaper bag and comes with a life-saving changing pad, which is something I've only seen once in the bathroom of a restaurant. Finally, I'd recommend you add Egyptian Hieroglyphs for Complete Beginners and Islamic Monuments in Cairo to your cart. The highlight of any Egyptian vacation is the chance to see ancient temples and tombs on a scale like nowhere else in the world. Make the experience even more immersive by learning to read the language the ancient Egyptians left behind. While I'm not yet fluent, there's nothing more thrilling than recognizing a word or phrase in a magnificent temple, thanks to Bill Manley's book. At the same time, there's more to Egypt than its ancient sites, Cairo has an entrancing old city full of medieval mosques and monuments that are nearly 1,000 years old. My husband and I have been following Caroline Williams' book of architectural walking tours for truly off-the-beaten-path experiences. You Might Also Need In addition to a sightseeing stay in Cairo and the surrounding areas, there are other popular activities around the country that are worth a visit. While some require very few packing list adjustments like a luxe Nile cruise, more active endeavors will require planning ahead to reserve precious suitcase space for hiking apparel, beach gear, and other sporty necessities. Golfing: Golfers rejoice! The expensive sport is very affordable in Cairo and is accessible at many major hotels, including the famed Gezira Sporting Club, Hilton Pyramids Golf Hotel, which is known for its breathtaking views of the pyramids, and more. My husband and I are even members of the Katameya Heights club, where I sport my fun, printed golf apparel. If you're on the fence about bringing your golf clubs, just know that you can get plenty of use out of them. Golfers rejoice! The expensive sport is very affordable in Cairo and is accessible at many major hotels, including the famed Gezira Sporting Club, Hilton Pyramids Golf Hotel, which is known for its breathtaking views of the pyramids, and more. My husband and I are even members of the Katameya Heights club, where I sport my fun, printed golf apparel. If you're on the fence about bringing your golf clubs, just know that you can get plenty of use out of them. Watersports: Egypt may be a desert, but don't sleep on the watersports available to you, and consider packing necessary gear. Tourists flock to snorkel and scuba dive in the Red Sea for the diverse marine life and extraordinary coral reefs, like those within the Ras Mohammed National Park located in the resort city of Sharm El Sheik. Dahab is another nearby snorkeling destination with the most calm and tranquil atmosphere. Also, if you're visiting the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, consider cooling off at Hurghada's white sand beaches complete with kite surfing, on top of snorkeling and scuba diving. Egypt may be a desert, but don't sleep on the watersports available to you, and consider packing necessary gear. Tourists flock to snorkel and scuba dive in the Red Sea for the diverse marine life and extraordinary coral reefs, like those within the Ras Mohammed National Park located in the resort city of Sharm El Sheik. Dahab is another nearby snorkeling destination with the most calm and tranquil atmosphere. Also, if you're visiting the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, consider cooling off at Hurghada's white sand beaches complete with kite surfing, on top of snorkeling and scuba diving. Cruising: Yes, you should splurge on a luxury cruise along the Nile. It's a surreal and magical experience that's still on my must-do list of things before we leave early next year. According to our friends, cheaping out on a Nile cruise has led many to bad experiences. You should also consider going between October and April when the weather is ideal, so you won't get hit with heat waves and sandstorms. Frequently Asked Questions What items are not allowed in Egypt? According to the Egypt E-Visa site, there's a long list of prohibited items, including 'explosives, drugs, firearms, narcotics, antiques, agriculture, food products, and more.' You should also obtain a permit beforehand to be able to bring a drone into the country. How can I get around Egypt? Even as a full-time resident, I still use my international roaming that's included at no extra cost with my T-Mobile monthly plan. It's fast enough to be able to navigate using Google Maps and call an Uber. You can also get a local SIM via Vodafone, Orange, Etisalat, and more at the Cairo airport or once you get to your final destination. Overall, getting around Cairo is extremely affordable, but there are tiers. Walking and even just crossing the street can be stressful because there are no crosswalks, pedestrian lights, and traffic won't slow down for you. Then, there are cheap cabs, but I don't recommend hailing one unless you're able to negotiate prices or are willing to give your driver directions in Arabic. The next option is Uber, which is hit or miss because the app is glitchy, and you may be told to cross a busy highway to be picked up. I always choose Uber Comfort for a higher chance of getting a better driver in a nicer car with air conditioning. Of course, a private driver is the way to go, and most guide services can set this up for you. For a smooth start to your trip, I suggest hiring private transportation and an expeditor who can meet you before customs and whisk you through immigration in no time. There's typically a sea of people asking if you need baggage and transportation services at the airport, so this is a way to avoid being overcharged and bothered. Why Trust Travel + Leisure Isis Briones is a travel writer who has lived in Egypt with her six-month-old daughter and husband, who's a diplomat, for a year and a half. Not only did she bring her baby back from the U.S. to Cairo when she was only two months old, but they've also traveled to and from the desert destination many times since moving. Love a great deal? 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Hospitality Net
5 days ago
- Business
- Hospitality Net
The Shift in Hotel Visual Marketing: Why Emotion, Movement, and Drone Storytelling Are Defining 2025
What trends do I see in hotel visual marketing today? The biggest one is emotional presence. In 2025, guests no longer respond to static perfection — they seek atmosphere. They want to feel what it's like to be there before they ever arrive. That's why we're seeing a shift away from traditional photography and toward dynamic, immersive content — especially short-form videos and drone storytelling. As a drone content creator and hotel visual strategist, I've seen firsthand how this shift is influencing booking behavior. When hotels embrace this new format, they don't just enhance their visuals — they redefine how they connect with their audience. The Rise of Movement-Based Marketing The modern traveler isn't inspired by a perfect room photo — they want to see sunlight flooding the balcony, hear the ocean from above, and imagine themselves walking barefoot to the pool. This demand for authenticity is why platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok have become the front lines of hotel discovery. Drone footage has emerged as a leading format because it offers something no other tool can: emotional scale and spatial context. It allows potential guests to understand not just the room, but the property, the surroundings, the feeling of arrival. This matters deeply, especially for resorts, nature retreats, and coastal hotels. From Flyovers to Storytelling: What Actually Works A common misconception is that a single drone flyover is enough. In reality, it's not about capturing a building from the sky — it's about crafting a visual experience that evokes emotion and tells a story. In my work with hotels across the U.S., I approach each shoot as a brand strategist would: Who is this property for? What is the unique mood or promise? What moments will resonate with the guest? Then I build a shot sequence: early morning coffee on the patio, the golden glow of sunset by the pool, the layout of the property from above. Every clip has a purpose — to bring the atmosphere to life. Real Results: Why Drone Content Drives Bookings The most successful hotels I've worked with use drone videos not just on social media, but also: on their websites, in booking platforms like Expedia and in digital advertising campaigns, and in email marketing. One client — a boutique hotel in California — reported a notable increase in direct bookings after incorporating my drone footage into a retargeting campaign. Why? Because it showed what static photos couldn't: mood, landscape, and an emotional preview of the stay. This kind of content isn't just visual — it's strategic. Relatability Over Luxury Another key trend: guests today respond more to relatable experiences than to opulence. Aerial shots of everyday beauty — swaying trees, quiet moments, golden skies — often outperform hyper-curated 'luxury' visuals. It's no longer about selling a product. It's about inviting someone into a moment. Final Thoughts: Drone Storytelling Is the New Standard As we look ahead, drone content is becoming essential for hospitality brands that want to stay competitive. It's immersive, emotional, and efficient — one shoot can produce dozens of reusable assets across formats and platforms. My advice to hotels: Don't just hire a videographer. Collaborate with a creator who understands marketing, storytelling, and your brand's soul. The future of hotel marketing is no longer static — it moves, breathes, and flies. Olha Kotova Freelance Travel Content Creator & Hotel Collaborator
Forbes
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Best Resorts On Hilton Head Island 2025
The best resorts on Hilton Head Island make it easy to enjoy the destination's peaceful coastline and pristine golf courses. The area offers a variety of activities for both first-time travelers and repeat vacationers. 'It's a prime location for golf, tennis, pickleball, biking and walking, year-round,' says Caroline Bernthal, a travel advisor at Fora. Our top overall recommendation is Montage Palmetto Bluff, which offers high-end amenities, an adults-only pool and elegant bathrooms with deep soaking tubs. Families will appreciate the kids' activity center at Ocean Oak Resort, A Hilton Grand Vacations Club, while those seeking a private home with a pool should consider 11 Grey Widgeon. Ahead, the best resorts on Hilton Head Island in 2025. Cottage suite interior at Montage Palmetto Bluff. Guests seeking a five-star stay will be enchanted by this luxurious resort situated along the May River on a 20,000–acre community in South Carolina's Lowcountry. With 20 miles of biking and walking trails, guests can enjoy the well-manicured, tree-lined grounds; the 200 guest rooms, suites, and cottages feature hardwood floors, high ceilings, walk-in closets and sumptuous marble bathrooms. Beyond strolling the lush property, guests can play a round of golf at the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, take a private guided Duffy Boat EcoTour through the Lowcountry, embark on a family fishing expedition or book a private 1-hour tasting and tour with the head sommelier. There are seemingly unlimited activities available on-site, and the four distinctive restaurants offer a variety of dining options as well. The Sea Pines Resort's beach club places guests of the Inn and Club at Harbour Town within steps of the sand. This boutique resort, recommended by Bernthal, features elegant yet comfortable furnishings and a vast array of activities and dining options, making it a great choice for any type of traveler. 'It's a charming property located within Sea Pines, which has over 500 acres of land with forest, beaches, golf, biking and so much more,' says Bernthal. There are 60 well-appointed rooms decorated in a soft color palette and a clean, airy aesthetic. Frette Italian linens adorn the beds, and large windows provide a view of the golf course or expansive resort. While the main attraction at this property is undoubtedly the three championship golf courses, there are also bicycle rentals, horseback riding, beach yoga, sailing lessons, numerous walking trails and a 120-foot pool—including a kiddie pool for the little ones. Exterior of Ocean Oak By Hilton Grand Vacations This family-friendly beachfront property is an ideal destination for families traveling with children. The spacious two-bedroom, two-bathroom suites can fit up to six guests and offer modern bathrooms with walk-in showers and double vanities. The separate living and dining areas also allow families to spread out and prepare meals and snacks in their rooms. There's plenty of activities to keep travelers of all ages occupied, including two pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a kids' activity center and outdoor dining. At the end of the day, kick back and relax with a glass of wine by the outdoor fireplace, taking in the calming sounds of the nearby beach. Exterior of Old Town Bluffton Inn Traveling on your honeymoon or celebrating an anniversary? The Old Town Bluffton Inn has an intimate atmosphere that will appeal to couples seeking to escape and immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of Bluffton's historic Old Town district. The 14 rooms and furnishings throughout the inn instantly make you feel at ease, from the plush beds to the gilded mirrors to the hand-sewn draperies and matching bed skirts. After exploring the nearby restaurants and shops, don't miss out on the plethora of outdoor excursions, which range from paddleboarding to a luxury yacht charter. Enjoy complimentary parking, freshly baked goods, a full pantry of snacks, an exclusive guest bar and a traditional Southern breakfast during your stay. The views from the Omni's adult pool are most beautiful at dusk. With multi-bed studio suites, larger one-bedroom suites and guaranteed connecting rooms, the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort is a great option for groups traveling together. Guests can enjoy three pools, including a shallow pool ideal for children, as well as access to 11 miles of lagoon trails that can be explored on foot or by bike. There are also tennis and pickleball courts, private beach access (where guests can rent beach chairs and umbrellas), a fitness center and a wellness area offering massages and body treatments. A major advantage of staying here is the access to the property's three championship golf courses; novice players can also join in the fun by taking advantage of lessons by professional instructors. This Lowcountry oasis is located less than 50 steps to the beach. If you're traveling with a large group and want a more private refuge, consider 11 Grey Widgeon, an Airbnb nestled in the gated Sea Pines Resort community. The property features five bedrooms and five and a half bathrooms, providing ample space for large family dinners, game nights and other gatherings. There are also two living rooms, with the upstairs one featuring beautiful cathedral ceilings. The kitchen is outfitted with modern appliances that will appeal to even the most discerning home chef, and there's plenty of seating when it's time to enjoy a home-cooked meal. The expansive deck is a wonderful spot for sipping coffee or a glass of wine at the end of the day while the kiddos splash around in the pool. Take note that pets are not permitted at this Airbnb. The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities across the globe. We selected the top contenders based on personal experience and extensive research. I am a commerce editor for Forbes Vetted covering topics in beauty, fashion, travel and home. Prior to joining Forbes, I held positions at BuzzFeed and Dotdash Meredith, where I was responsible for curating lifestyle content and testing products for real-world insights. My work has appeared in Women's Health, Men's Health, BuzzFeed, Brit + Co, Everyday Health and more. I hold a Bachelor's Degree in English/Creative Writing from Marist College and currently reside in Brooklyn, New York.
