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Arab News
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Review: A luxurious Riyadh staycation at the Mansard Hotel
RIYADH: The Mansard Hotel in Riyadh has established itself as a top choice among those looking for a luxury staycation in the Kingdom's capital. This exquisite establishment offers a plethora of facilities, including a top-tier restaurant and a renowned spa by L'Occitane that promises a rejuvenating experience catering to both relaxation and indulgence. For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @ The Mansard is a Radisson Collection Hotel and was recently nominated for the Favorite Luxury Hotel in Riyadh award by What's On Saudi Arabia. The hotel marries classic European architecture with the warmth of Arabian hospitality, and its location in the heart of the city — in the vibrant Hittin neighborhood — ensures convenient access to key destinations including King Khalid International Airport and the King Abdullah Financial District. A post shared by Mansard Riyadh (@radissoncollectionmansard) In Hittin, guests can explore an array of trendy shops and cafés, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in local culture. However, you could also simply remain in the hotel; it really does have everything you need — the inviting outdoor spaces and stunning European architecture created a serene atmosphere that enhanced our experience — including some great dining options. We began our culinary journey at L'Ami Dave, billed as 'a contemporary homage to the legendary restaurants of Paris.' The grand interior features high ceilings and lush textures that give the place an elegant old-world atmosphere. We indulged in escargots de Bourgogne, a classic French dish of snails prepared in garlic-herb butter, which was delightful. The green salad of baby romaine lettuce, fine herbs, and Dijon vinaigrette complemented the dish perfectly. The quiche Lorraine, filled with spinach, shallots, and bacon, was another standout, paired beautifully with a petite spinach salad. We also dined at Carbone — an Italian-American restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere. We tried the octopus pizzaiolo, which was flavorful and well-prepared. The New York strip was also well executed, though the carpaccio could have benefited from additional arugula. A post shared by Mansard Riyadh (@radissoncollectionmansard) Unfortunately, the Dover sole fish was a disappointment, lacking the seasoning and flavor that one would expect from a fine-dining establishment. And despite its reputation, the most famous pasta dish was mediocre, with a presentation that left much to be desired. On a positive note, Carbone's Wagyu NY strip was satisfying, and we enjoyed a refreshing lemon cheesecake for dessert — a perfect way to conclude our meal. Breakfast the following morning at Sadelle's was another success. I savored the avocado Benedict on sourdough, as well as the fluffy Belgian waffles, all of which was delicious and set a positive tone for the day. A post shared by Mansard Riyadh (@radissoncollectionmansard) No stay at Mansard would be complete without a visit to the Spa by L'Occitane. It features a massive heated pool, where we enjoyed a refreshing dip, followed by the jacuzzi, which proved a perfect way to unwind. We were particularly enamored with the salt room, designed to 'cleanse negative energy.' I also treated myself to a Moroccan bath, a deeply relaxing experience. The Mansard offers a luxurious escape that combines modern amenities with traditional charm. From the exceptional dining experiences to the relaxing spa treatments, every aspect of the stay was designed for our comfort and indulgence. I left feeling refreshed and keen to return, convinced that this hotel really does provide a perfect staycation. If you're searching for a place to unwind and enjoy the best that Riyadh has to offer, look no further.
The National
7 days ago
- The National
Summer staycations to snap up around the UAE, from Atlantis The Royal to Four Seasons Abu Dhabi
Looking to make the most of the summer without leaving the UAE? From beachside resorts in Dubai to mountain escapes in Ras Al Khaimah, hotels across all seven emirates are offering seasonal deals. Whether it's complimentary stays for little ones, spa discounts or free theme park access, there's something for everyone. Note, however, that some UAE resident offers require proof of residency, such as an Emirates ID. Here's a round-up of summer staycation deals to consider, from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah. Dubai Atlantis The Royal The hotel 's Royal Staycation package includes up to 20 per cent off rooms, suites and penthouses; breakfast at Gastronomy; access to the fitness centre and wet facilities; and complimentary access to Nobu by the Beach, including a sunbed (reservation required). Guests also enjoy entry to Aquaventure World and The Lost Chambers Aquarium, plus a 15 per cent dining discount when signing up for the Atlantis Circle. Bab Al Shams The desert resort, which reopened in 2023, has a staycation offer that includes 25 per cent off rooms and suites, 20 per cent off villas, daily breakfast and Dh250 in resort credit per room for spa or leisure. Guests also receive 30 per cent off desert experiences such as falconry shows and camel rides. Call 04 809 6100 or visit One&Only The Palm UAE residents can enjoy a special offer that includes Dh1,000 in resort credit when booking a villa or Dh500 when booking a suite. The deal also includes a complimentary stay for children under the age of four and daily waterpark access. Call 04 440 1010 or visit Siro One Za'abeel The wellness-centric property has a Summer Reset staycation offer that includes 20 per cent off stays, with daily breakfast at Nette, access to complimentary fitness classes such as HIIT, cycling or Pilates, and access to curated workshops and sound healing classes. Call 04 666 1700 or visit JA Ocean View Hotel The Summer Breeze staycation at the hotel starts at Dh660 per night and includes half-board dining (children under 16 dine free), and 20 per cent off on house beverages and spa treatments. This offer is available until September 30. Address Beach Resort The hotel in JBR has a summer staycation deal that includes daily breakfast or half-board dining, 25 per cent off food and beverages (excluding room services and meals at Zeta Seventy Seven) and 25 per cent off spa treatments, plus early check-in and late check-out subject to availability. Call 04 879 8899, email stayatbeachresort@ or visit Kempinski Mall of the Emirates The property's SuiteCation offer – meaning a suite must be booked – includes 30 per cent off stays, Dh500 in dining credit, complimentary executive lounge access and two Ski Dubai tickets. It also includes 20 per cent off spa treatments, and early check-in at noon and late check-out at 3pm subject to availability. This offer is available until September 30. Abu Dhabi Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island The Adventure for All offer, valid for a minimum two-night stay, includes daily buffet breakfast at Crust, and unlimited access to Yas Island's theme parks (Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi) with a quick pass to skip the queue for one ride at any park. Children aged 11 and under enjoy complimentary park access with each paying adult (one child per adult) when sharing the same room. Guests can also make use of the complimentary Yas Island shuttle service from the hotel. Call 02 333 2333 or visit W Abu Dhabi The UAE resident offer includes daily breakfast at Garage Restaurant and two complimentary tickets to Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld or Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Book for two or more and get unlimited theme park access and a 20 per cent discount across all dining venues as well as the spa. The hotel also has a Kids Go Free offer, which includes complimentary entry for a child with a paying adult. Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi The property 's staycation offer, valid for a minimum two-night stay, includes 30 per cent off the best available room rate, access to daily fitness classes, complimentary access to Karaoke Night on Mondays and full use of the recreation room for children aged 13 to 18. This offer is available until September 30. Call 02 498 0000, email or visit Jumeirah Saadiyat Island The Exceptional Staycations deal for UAE residents, for bookings until July 31, offers up to 25 per cent off flexible room rates, daily breakfast, an option for half-board (breakfast and a choice of lunch or dinner), access to the spa and gym, as well as access to a private beach and three outdoor pools. Call 02 811 4444 or visit Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi The two-day Serenity Retreat offer includes complimentary breakfast served in-room or at The Cafe; a 75-minute hot stone massage; a 60-minute sound healing session; a 60-minute facial treatment; and a 60-minute yoga session. Call 02 407 1234 or visit Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa The Ultimate Yas Island Staycation offer includes a double room for two adults and two children under 12, buffet breakfast at Sevilla and two general admission tickets to a Yas Island theme park such as Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld or Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas The Family Weekend Escape package is Dh3,599 and is valid for two adults and two children for two nights. It includes a free upgrade to half-board (inclusive of breakfast and lunch or dinner) with a Dh100 spa voucher. Children under six can stay and eat for free, while those aged six to 12 can stay and eat at 50 per cent off. Sharjah The Chedi Al Bait The Stay & Splash package at The Chedi Al Bait includes access to Al Montazah amusement park or waterpark, daily breakfast, Dh150 in spa credit and a complimentary upgrade. The deal also includes early check-in at noon and late check-out at 4pm subject to availability. This offer is available until December 31. Ras Al Khaimah Anantara Mina Ras Al Khaimah Resort The summer offer for UAE and GCC residents includes daily breakfast, 18 per cent off room and villa accommodation, and 20 per cent off on food and beverage. Two children, aged 11 and below, can stay and eat for free. Those booking a Peninsula Sea View Pool Villa or Over Water Pool Villa also get one 60-minute spa treatment; while those who book a two-bedroom the Anantara or Royal Over Water Pool Villa get 60-minute spa treatments for two. This offer is available until September 30. Call 07 204 2222 or visit InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa The Family Summer Escape deal is for two adults and two children, with those under 12 staying and dining for free. It includes daily breakfast at Saffar Restaurant, Dh150 in spa credit, complimentary access to Planet Trekkers Kids' Club and health club, as well as access to the beach, infinity pool and tennis court. The package also offers 20 per cent savings on dining and 20 per cent on wakeboarding and water-skiing. This offer is available until September 30. Ajman Fairmont Ajman The All-Inclusive Family Gateway offers up to 30 per cent off the best available room rates, along with a room upgrade and an upgrade to the premium all-inclusive package. Children up to 12 can stay and dine for free, with access to the kids' club and unlimited soft drinks and juices throughout the day. The deal also includes 20 per cent discount on watersports. This offer is available until September 30. Umm Al Quwain Vida Hotel Umm Al Quwain The Endless Summer: UAE Residents Deal at this pet-friendly property offers up to 35 per cent off stays with complimentary buffet breakfast and up to 20 per cent off treatments at The Spa. There is also early check-in and late check-out, while children aged 12 and below can stay and dine for free, while also getting kids' club access. This offer is available until September 30. Fujairah InterContinental Fujairah Resort The Ultimate All-Inclusive Escape offer is for UAE residents, and starts at Dh999 for stays from Sunday to Thursday and Dh1,299 on Friday and Saturday. It includes daily breakfast, lunch and dinner at Nama, access to the wellness facility, and access to Planet Trekkers' Kids Club and Teen Club. Address Beach Resort Fujairah The summer deal includes 25 per cent off stays, with children under 12 staying and dining for free, in line with a meal plan booked by parents. Families can make the most of dedicated kids' clubs, temperature-controlled pools and child-friendly menus, while adults unwind with spa treatments and a range of dining options. This offer is available until September 30. 09 204 7666; Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort The All-Inclusive Family Getaway includes a complimentary room upgrade and an upgrade to the premium all-inclusive package, along with 20 per cent off water sports and 40 per cent off spa treatments. Families also benefit from kids' club access and all-day soft drinks and juices for children. This offer is available until September 30.
South China Morning Post
22-07-2025
- South China Morning Post
6 Hong Kong hotels offering summer fun and staycation deals so you needn't leave the city
There is a lot to love about a staycation. It is a break from routine without the typical travel hassles – and holidaying at home helps support your local economy. Air travel also has a significant environmental impact, with the greenhouse gas emissions it produces contributing to climate change. For this reason, staycations are a more sustainable travel choice. Those looking for a 'staycay' this summer should check out these hotels in Hong Kong that are offering a little more fun than the usual rooftop pool and gym. 1. Bubbles & Brews Festival at The Murray The Murray is hosting a Summer Bubbles & Brews Festival on July 25 and 26. Photo: The Murray Located in Hong Kong's Central neighbourhood, The Murray has 336 rooms and suites spanning 25 floors, and facilities including a swimming pool, spa and rooftop bar. For an extra dose of summer fun, head there on July 25 and 26 when the hotel hosts the Bubbles & Brews Festival at The Arches on its first floor. Local DJs will provide a feast of retro hits, while local and international wine and food vendors including Breer, Brightview, Veuve Clicquot, Whispering Angel, Two Moons Distillery, Vines and Terroirs, and Young Master will provide the food and drinks. 22 Cotton Tree Drive, Central. Tel: 3141 8888
Forbes
21-07-2025
- Forbes
48 Hours In Seattle, The Summer Walking Tour
Here's a guide for weekenders, seasonal cruisers and the staycation set that'll definitely get those steps in. Ready to work up an appetite? Let's go. From sunrise to sunset, there's lots to do, places to see, delicious food to eat in Seattle. But first, a post-airport bakery stop A dear friend flew up from San Diego for a quick visit, game for anything, especially when it comes to food. After a traffic snarled early morning pickup at SeaTac, I made a beeline to one of my favorite bakeries, Sea Wolf. This family-owned venture started by brothers Jesse and Kit Schumann as a wholesale bread-baking operation has blossomed into a must-visit venue. Get there before 9 to avoid the lines and while you're at the counter, be sure and consider the densely packed, utterly delicious date cake. It's more of a stout version of banana bread, delivering the intense sweetness of those dates without getting sticky fingers. Also ask about the croissant brittle, a pastry that amps up the crunch. Sea Wolf Bakery's date cake gets its signature crunch from pepitas. Lines form early at this popular ... More spot, so arrive before 9 a.m. to beat the rush.A very special place to stay After checking into the city's newest luxe accommodations – 1 Hotel in the heart of the South Lake Union – we took a walk down to the water. This neighborhood is best known for being home to Amazon and other tech-driven businesses, but its rich history goes back to the city's earliest days. The Virginia V is permanently docked near MOHAI, offering a glimpse at one of the last surviving examples of the Mosquito Fleet. The steamship moved goods up and down the coast and now serves as a floating museum. La Loba at Seattle's 1 Hotel offers a memorable Papatas Brava on its tapas menu. And while we're on the subject of floating, head over to The Center for Wooden Boats if you're interested in renting water craft or learning more about the region's nautical history. Want to enjoy a bird's view of the neighborhood with an adult beverage? Head to the rooftop known as m bar, where the extensive lineup of cleverly named cocktails includes a rare sighting of a espresso martini with a half shot of spirits. We had a dinner reservation at La Loba, the sensational new restaurant at 1 Hotel and by the time we were seated, the dining room was buzzing with the kind of energy that feels like the best kind of first date. Our congenial server steered us towards a few cool starters on the Spanish-inspired menu, though it'd be a stretch to call the generous portions tapas. Big hits among those first course choices were the Patatas Bravas, which had an almost croissant-like texture – micro-thin slices of potato layered and fried crisp – and something called Green Tartare. This dreamy mashup of avocado, zucchini and bell pepper was served with a crispy rice cracker crown for scooping up the plant-based spread. The Double R Ranch braised beef cheek proved to be the perfect entree to share, an ultra-rich, deeply satisfying preparation showcasing that butter-tender cut. Maitake mushrooms and pickled onions added complexity and contrast to the saucy beef, which was perched on velvety potato puree. In addition to more than 60 restaurants, cafes, bakeries and coffee shops, Pike Place Market offers ... More one of the best places in the city to purchase flowers grown by local farmers. A very good morning After an eye-opener at nearby Monorail Espresso, we headed to Pike Place Market for a deep dive into that special place. The mission? Grab some tasty souvenirs for my friend's pantry back home. Scored spectacular smoked wild salmon from Pike Place Fish, tinned 'seacuterie' at DeLaurenti, tea at Market Spice and some Rose Harissa at World Spice. That ingredient delivers a fiery finish to all sorts of dishes, though my pal loves it best on scrambled eggs. As the shopping bags were growing heavy, it was time for lunch at one of my faves, Pasta Casalinga, where we ordered one of everything. This is a rare place where you can get away with that kind of order, especially if you're sharing and we had a third join our party of two to enjoy the 'from the ocean', 'from the farm', 'from the garden' selections that change regularly. A brilliant kale pesto was a standout, offering a fresh take on the classic. So good. Before leaving the Market, we picked up a few things to make dinner at my home base before walking back through the new waterfront park and then meandering through the beautiful Olympic Sculpture Park. Just like that, it was time for that return to the airport. It was a quick trip to the Emerald City, yet we managed to pack in a lot of highlights. Pasta Casalinga at Seattle's Pike Place Market offers a seasonal takes on its ever-changing menu, ... More including a kale pesto. Here are a few more suggestions for a pedestrian-driven tour of downtown Seattle and surrounding neighborhoods: Head to Pioneer Square for a drink at that area's first rooftop bar, Firn at the Populus Hotel, explore the excellent Old School Italian menu at Darkalino's, enjoy a well-made espresso drink at Cafe Umbria. Keep walking and you'll hit Chinatown/the International District, where a wander through Uwajimaya is always a pleasure, followed by dim sum at Jade Garden or Dough Zone Dumpling House. Though it's a few more steps down the road, Pho Bac Sup Shop is well worth the effort. Interested in a moveable feast tour of the Seattle Center? Check out the newest option from Eat Seattle Tours.
The Sun
20-07-2025
- The Sun
The Georgian hotel right next to one of the UK's largest parks
BURNHAM Beeches is an ideal place to relax and roam the beautiful grounds of Windsor's Great Park. Read on to find out how to book your room and spa treatment. 3 Where is Burnham Beeches hotel? This 4* hotel is in Slough, close to Windsor, and is just minutes from the M4/M40. A 5-minute drive from Burnham railway station makes Burnham Beeches easily accessbile. What is the hotel like? This beautiful Georgian hotel retains its historical charm in the heart of Buckinghamshire. It stands on 10 acres of gardens once part of Windsor Great Park making it an ideal peaceful and luxurious staycation, once playing host to royal hunting parties. It has a modern extension but still retains much of its originality with wood-panelled dining rooms and a high-ceiling bar. What is there to do at the hotel? Fancy a spa treatment? The Soul Spa offers reasonably priced treatments. My 30-minute back and neck massage (£40) was expertly delivered. The hotel also has a swimming pool and a small gym if you fancy a full spa day. It's just a 15-minute drive from Windsor Castle or families can spend a day at Legoland Windsor. What is there to eat and drink there? In the morning, there is a self-service English breakfast, plus a selection of pastries, cold meats, fruit and yoghurt. Afternoon tea is served in the picturesque tearoom (from £29.50 per adult). 3 Our traditional three-tiered cake stand was heaving with sandwiches and artisan cakes. The 1727 Brasserie or the oak-lined dining room offers fine dining and grills, including burgers. As a vegetarian, I was disappointed by the lack of main options, but my burrata winter salad was lovely. What are the rooms like? Prices for an overnight stay start at £99 midweek and £109 at the weekend. Book here. There are 78 rooms, which are spacious and attractive, plus four suites. Our suite was in the new part of the building and came with lots of amenities. Is it family-friendly? Yes – family suites, little extras, and a large pool. Is there access for guests with disabilities? Yes. Contact the hotel for further assistance. Looking for a place to stay? For more hotel inspiration click here. 3
