Eid Getaways: From Mediterranean Dreams To Tropical Havens

by Ashas Bukhari

Eid Getaways: From Mediterranean Dreams To Tropical Havens

5 Apr 2024

Looking for the perfect getaway this extra-long weekend? Whether your ideal destination is close by or far away, tranquil beaches, ancient cities, and rejuvenating wellness retreats await. Take a look at our top suggestions for the ultimate April Eid getaways that will leave you with cherished memories and wonderful experiences.

Rome and Palermo, Italy

Experience the beauty of Italy by checking off two must-see destinations from your bucket list with this four-night trip. Rocco Forte, a renowned hospitality brand in Italy, invites travellers to begin their Italian adventure with a two-night stay at the luxurious Hotel de la Ville in Rome. Located in the heart of the city and housed in a charming palazzo near the famous Spanish Steps, this hotel is the perfect base to explore Rome's rich culture.

Hotel de la Ville

Then, escape to the iconic Villa Igiea in Palermo, a favourite among celebrities on the sunny coast of Sicily, for a rejuvenating retreat by the sea. This package includes a complimentary upgrade to the next room category, daily breakfast, and an aperitivo at Julep Herbal & Vermouth Bar at Hotel de la Ville. Guests staying at Villa Igiea also receive a three-course lunch at Igiea Terrazza.

Villa Igiea

Pricing: Starts from 4,565 AED

Travel options: Emirates and Etihad both provide flights to Rome, Italy for those looking to visit.

Mauritius

If you are yearning for a peaceful vacation surrounded by lush greenery, visit the island of Mauritius during April, right after the wet season. Lux* Grand Gaube, situated on the northern coast of the island, offers an idyllic escape where guests can relax and enjoy life at a slower pace. Expect all the luxurious amenities of a five-star resort: savour a floating breakfast in your private pool villa, have leisurely lunches at the beach club, and be pampered by your personal butler. In addition to these indulgences, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and immerse oneself in the local culture.

Source: www.luxresorts.com

Hop on a traditional wooden pirogue with a local fisherman to discover the secrets of the sea; go snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters and marvel at seahorses and baby sharks; or take a trip to Ilot Bernache, a nearby islet, for a delicious BBQ meal featuring freshly prepared fish.

Pricing: The starting price for a room is 1,090 AED per night, with a minimum stay of two nights required.

Sumba, Indonesia

Take advantage of the Eid break to focus on your own well-being by embarking on a wellness retreat at Nihi Sumba. Located on the stunning island of Sumba, just a one-hour flight from Bali, this luxurious getaway offers a range of new experiences dedicated to promoting overall wellness in a unique and holistic way. The newly introduced "wild wellness" programs incorporate natural treatments, challenging activities, and traditional practices for an enriching and transformative experience. Among the four new offerings, the Sumba Sea Horse Equine Experience stands out as a truly idyllic option, designed to promote healing and self-discovery through activities like hikes to hilltops and yoga sessions on horseback.

Source: nihi.com

Pricing: The cost for a villa per night with full board starts at 4,510 AED. Travel options: You can book a nonstop flight from Emirates or Etihad to Bali, Indonesia. From there, you can catch a short one-hour flight within the country to reach Sumba.

Ibiza, Spain

While the White Isle is known for its bustling summer parties, there is another side to this enchanting island that can be explored during the less popular months. With warm temperatures and gorgeous Ibiza sunsets in full display, April is the perfect time to escape to this destination. Settle into El Hotel Pacha, a modern hotel situated in the exclusive Marina Botafoch area and now under the management of FIVE Hotels & Resorts. Use this as your central base to trade wild parties and late nights for leisurely swims in the crystal-clear water, days filled with discovering the rich Mediterranean cuisine at local restaurants, and active adventures exploring the rugged natural beauty of the island.

Instagram: @elhotelpacha

Pricing: Room rates begin from AED 650 per night Travel options: You can fly directly to Barcelona on either Etihad or Emirates. From there, it is just a one-hour domestic flight to reach Ibiza.

Fari Islands, Maldives

Instead of the usual rustic charm found in Maldivian resorts, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands boasts a modern and chic aesthetic, making it an irresistible choice for an Eid getaway. With its powdery white sand and crystal clear blue waters, this resort is perfect for taking photos to share on Instagram. Guests can choose between staying in beach or overwater villas, complete with inviting infinity pools for ultimate relaxation.

The seven restaurants offer a fusion of flavours, and guests also have access to a luxurious beach club on the Fari Islands and round-the-clock service from their personal Aris Meeha butler.

Source: www.luxresorts.com

During Eid, the resort plans to host an Arabian Night Market, Arabic cooking classes, and special entertainment from the Middle East. For a minimum four-night stay, book the "Embrace Island Life" package which includes daily half-board dining, welcome amenities, and round-trip speedboat transfers.

Pricing: The cost of staying in a room here starts at AED 14,985 per night and includes half-board meals as well as return transfers. Travel options: Direct flights to Male, Maldives are available from Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, and Wizz Air.

Limassol, Cyprus

As the plane descends into Larnaca after a long journey from the UAE, you will be greeted by the warm spring air of Cyprus. Just a short hour's drive away lies Limassol, a vibrant city that boasts a diverse mix of cultures. And for your stay, look no further than City of Dreams Mediterranean — a modern resort perfect for families seeking an unforgettable vacation. Complete with five pools, an adventure park filled with ziplines and trampolines, a luxurious spa, and even a casino, this resort has something for everyone. The spacious rooms feature sleek European-style furniture and glass-fronted bathrooms with standalone bathtubs, offering stunning views of the pool area and the inviting ocean in the distance.

Instagram: @cityofdreamsmediterranean

For those looking for even more excitement, head to the far corner of the resort where Waverider surf attraction and adventure park await. But don't wait too long — book now and enjoy 15% off room rates for four-night stays between April 9 and 14 (which also includes breakfast and access to the adventure park). And when you are ready to venture out beyond the resort's boundaries, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque promenades, relax at upscale beach bars, sip on coffee at charming cafes, or explore popular sites such as Kourion old city and St George castle.

Pricing: Room rates begin at AED 1,076 per night Travel options: Travellers have the option of direct flights to Larnaca, Cyprus through Emirates and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi.

by Ashas Bukhari