Jetsettersblog

Bales Worldwide is introducing a raft of new options for its Egypt, Morocco and Arabia programme for 2009/10, including the addition of the Musk, the operator’s fourth dahabiyya on the Nile, new boutique hotels in Tripoli and Cairo, and an increased focus on walking holidays in Jordan. The programme includes 18 escorted holidays and countless independent travel choices to Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Libya, Iran and Uzbekistan, with prices starting £995 for the 11 day ‘Wonders of Ancient Egypt’ itinerary.

THE NILE IN STYLE – A HOST OF CRUISING OPTIONS

Bales Worldwide offers now offers the widest range of luxury Nile cruise options, with a total of 12 different cruise boats featured from the traditional dahabiyya experiences, to the Movenpick Royal Lily Nile cruise ship. Due to a change in flight scheduling, Bales can now also offer a shorter 8 day holiday option featuring the Nile Cruise only.

Bales continues to be one of the few UK tour operators to offer the dahabiyya Nile cruise experience. The company is adding a fourth vessel for 2009/10, as the Musk joins the Nesma, the Zahra and the Amber. The dahabiyyas (19th century style wooden crafted river sailing vessels) revive the elegant days when aristocrats and sophisticated travellers cruised the Nile. All vessels are fitted out in colonial style with oriental and Egyptian touches and each of the six cabins has its own individual decoration. The dahabiyyas are now available on a choice of two itineraries – the original 12 day ‘Nostalgic Nile’ holiday (from £1,595 per person), and a shorter 8 day cruise only holiday (from £1,345 per person). The former includes three days in Cairo staying at the Mena House Oberoi Hotel, before embarking at Luxor or Aswan for a leisurely seven day cruise. The vessel stops at private moorings, away from the larger towns, as well as calling in at little visited Nile islands.

Other outstanding cruise options on offer include a 4 night cruise on the Oberoi Philae, which is perfect for those with limited time, a new cruise aboard the luxurious Movenpick Royal Lily and an itinerary that includes time aboard the luxurious Sonesta St. George I cruise ship.

The new 8 day ‘Egyptian Encounters’ (from £1,325 per person) itinerary combines a cruise on the Sonesta St. George I cruise ship with the opulent comforts of the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo. The Sonesta is one of the Nile’s newest boats and this exquisite vessel offers just 49 cabins and 10 suites, as well as the finest in interiors and amenities. The holiday starts with 3 nights in Cairo before you head off for 4 nights cruising along the river.

VILLA BELLE EPOQUE OPENS IN CAIRO

Bales is among the first UK operators to offer the Villa Belle Epoque as part of its tailor made options. Set to be Cairo’s first truly boutique hotel, the Villa Belle Epoque is due to open in early 2009. This 1920’s house is located in the Maadi suburb, set among a garden of date palms and fruit trees, and has been tastefully converted into a 13 bedroom hotel. Relax by the inviting swimming pool, sip a cool drink on your private balcony and soak up the ambience. This is the perfect place to stay for a few days before heading off for a dahabiyya cruise along the Nile.

TREKKING IN JORDAN

Jordan is an incredibly diverse country and Bales is now offering 5 different itineraries that explore its unrivalled splendour – including a number of trekking options. The 8 day ‘Active Jordan’ trip (from £1,795 per person) includes two treks, as well as several guided walking tours. Explore the vibrant capital of Amman on foot, take in Dana Nature reserve on a 15km hike through some of the most beautiful and spectacular scenery in Jordan, and follow a 10km ancient trail traversing the rocky ledges of the Sharah Mountains, to the site of Petra’s spectacular monastery.

Bales’ tailor made options in the country, include the chance to experience truly unique accommodation in the beautiful lunar landscape of the Wadi Rum region - in the form of Desert Camp Wadi Rum. This private camp affords a nomadic experience camping in dome style tents (or out under the stars if you would prefer), with a communal Bedouin tent for dining and entertainment, and delicious, traditional food cooked over hot coals. This really is Jordan with a difference and prices start from £195 per night based on 2 passengers travelling.

BOUTIQUE LIBYA

Bales’ 8 day ‘Images of Libya’ itinerary (from £1,495 per person) now includes time at the brand new El-Khan hotel in Tripoli. The hotel, which is due to open at the end of 2008, aims to be Tripoli’s first boutique hotel. Bales Worldwide is one of very few UK operators who will be offering this stylish, characterful retreat. The Images of Libya holiday kicks off with a night at the El-Khan and the opportunity to enjoy an evening meal with a local family in Tripoli, before you head off to explore the endless vistas of the Sahara and the spectacular ruins of the ancient ‘Pentapolis’ cities. Day 6 sees you return to El-Khan for 2 nights, with sightseeing at the National Museum, time to explore the old souk and a day at the utterly breathtaking, UNESCO Heritage site of Leptis Magna.

For a copy of the new brochure or for reservations please call 0845 057 0600

or look online at www.balesworldwide.com

Thomson Worldwide’s latest Asia & Arabian collection provides even more choice and is guaranteed to cater for all tastes and budgets. From romantic retreats and spa breaks to family holidays full of adventures, a budget conscious base or push-the-boat-out luxury holiday, Thomson Worldwide are confident that their new brochure has something for everyone.

ASIA:

From Post-Olympic tours in China to new spa hotels in Bali, Thomson Worldwide offer a huge range or holidays to Thailand, Indochina, Malaysia, Singapore, Bali, Hong Kong and China.

What’s new & What’s hot…

Phuket will see the opening of the new Anantara hotel. Situated on Mai Kao Beach on the North of the Island, with its luxurious collection of expansive pool villas set against lush tropical gardens, the hotel is a new addition to the Thomson Worldwide Elite Collection.
Thomson Worldwide offer a 7 night break at the Anantara, Phuket from £1,634 per person. Price includes accommodation on a b&b basis, flights and transfers and is available from October 2008 onwards.

The new Cape Sienna hotel in Phuket, situated on a dramatic headland backdrop boasting uninterrupted panoramic views across the Andaman Sea, will be the ultimate in chic and exclusive accommodation.

Thomson Worldwide offer a 7 night break at the Cape Sienna Hotel, Phuket from £1,336 per person. Price includes accommodation on a b&b basis, flights and transfers and is available from October 2008 onwards.

Bali has had a huge pick up and is predicted to be very popular in 2009. The cool and trendy Seminyak area is home to the new Anantara Resort, a luxury retreat just steps from the rolling Indian Ocean. Thomson Worldwide offer free nights and added extras such as spa treatments at the resort.

Thomson Worldwide offer a 7 night break at the Anantara Resort, Seminyak from £1,275 per person. Price includes accommodation on a room only basis, flights and transfers and is available from October 2008 onwards.

For bookings and information contact 0871 230 2770 or visit www.thomsonworldwide.com

The Bali Pavilions, part of Thomson Worldwide’s ‘Uniquely Asia’ collection is a new fantastic value property – an enclave of gardens and traditional Balinese style Villas just a few minutes walk from Sanur Beach and with a lovely spa.

Thomson Worldwide offer a 7 night break at The Bali Pavilions, Seminyak from £1,111 per person. Price includes accommodation on a b&b basis, flights and transfers and is available from October 2008 onwards.

Khao Lak is one of Thailand’s most peaceful pockets – with a combination of piercing blue ocean and emerald green national park between which snakes a glimmering golden beach, Khao Lak is a dream destination. Swim in the waterfall pools in the national park, play a round of golf in one of the areas 3 courses, snorkel or dive in the Similan or Surin Islands Marine National Parks and add a stay at Thailand’s first luxury tented camp, Elephant Hills to go elephant trekking and exploring the rainforest.

Thomson Worldwide offer a 2 night break at Elephant Hills, Thailand on a Full Board basis combined with a 2 night stay at the Bel Aire Princess in Bangkok on a Room Only basis and a 3 night stay at the Khao Lak Merlin Resort on a B&B basis from £1,384 per person. Price includes flights and transfers and is available from October 2008 onwards.

The Sarojin Hotel in Khao Lak offers affordable luxury, amazing excursions, cooking courses and much more to maximise the Thai experience.

Thomson Worldwide offer a 7 night break at The Sarojin Hotel, Khao Lak from £1,554 per person. Price includes accommodation on a room only basis, flights and transfers and is available from October 2008 onwards.

For bookings and information please contact 0871 230 2770 or visit www.thomsonworldwide.com

Set to be very popular next year after this year’s Olympic games, Thomson Worldwide offer great tours in China – perfect for travellers wanting to explore a number of cultural highlights in a short amount of time.

Thomson Worldwide offer a 7 night (9 day) China Experience from £1,099 per person. Price includes British Airways flights from London Heathrow and accommodation on a full board basis. Price also includes an English speaking local guide, all entrance fees and transportation and is available from October 2008 onwards.

The China Experience is the perfect introduction to China, covering the most famous sights of Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors and historic Shanghai

ARABIAN GULF:

From desert safaris in Qatar to Emirates beach holidays, Thomson Worldwide offer tailor made holidays to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman, Bahrain and Qatar.

Thomson Worldwide offer a 7 night break at Atlantis, The Palm for a family of 4 (2 adults and 2 children) from £3,149. Price includes accommodation on a b&b basis, flights from London Heathrow with Qatar Airways and transfers and is available from October 2008 onwards.

Singapore Airlines will commence operations to Riyadh, the largest city and capital of Saudi Arabia, on Dec. 14. Using the Boeing 777-200 aircraft, Singapore Airlines will operate four times weekly to Riyadh via Dubai every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Riyadh will be the second city to which Singapore Airlines operates in Saudi Arabia. The Airline will maintain its current three-times-weekly service to Jeddah, via Abu Dhabi.

Flights are subject to regulatory approval.

“Give me your fiery red color/ take back my wintry shallowness.” The Red Wednesday, counts among the only two extant one of those fire-connected festivities. It is an annual ritual which is held on the eve of the last Wednesday of the Iranian year.

Tehran, Iran, - From among the Aryan festivals and feasts, some of the most important ones pertained to fire, the symbol of good health, cultivation, light, and purity to the Iranian. Chaharshanbe-Suri, “The Red Wednesday”, counts among the only two extant one of those fire-connected festivities.

It is an annual ritual which is held on the eve of the last Wednesday of the Iranian year. It is believed that the ritual guarantees the dissipation of the misfortunes and evils, and of course, the materialization of people’s hopes and desires for the next year.

It dates back to before the Arab Conquest of Iran; when the Iranian year was made up of 360 days with 5 extra days during which the Zoroastrians would build fires to invite their ancestors’ ghosts to their homes. On the other hand, we know that the Arabs believed that Wednesday was inauspicious. So, the people shifted their ritual to the eve of Tuesday (in the Arabian calendar, a day begins and finishes at dusk) to save the custom against the ill will of the Arabs. The ritual is composed of different rites:

Bute-Afruzi (Bush-igniting)

Bush-igniting is the principal ceremony of the night. Before the dusk, seven, as a symbol for the seven Zoroastrian angels (Amshaaspandan), heaps of bushes (of weed) are gathered before the house-gate or on the roof of the house -some visible place for the “ghosts” to guide. After the night has fallen on, the heaps are kindled and the uproarious tumult begins.

Everybody, ranging from the old to the children and the women, is excited into a passionate, memorable night. Now it is time for everybody to leap over the bonfires. They dance and sing merry notes. The traditional song of the night is: “Sorkhi-e man az to/ Zardi-e to az man”, literally “my redness from you/ your yellowness from me”, but figuratively it means “Give me your fiery red color and take back my wintry sallowness”.

In small cities and villages, the ash of the blaze traditionally is cast off in a stream or some crossroad, due its ill omens, because people have thrown off their former pain and misfortunes into it ( of course, in the northern parts of http://www.irpedia.com/_Iran

, such as Gilan province, people put this ash at the foot of the trees as fertilizer). The girl or woman, who had assumed the errand, on returning is asked for her identity and she would say, in response, that she is getting back from a wedding ceremony, fetching good health and good luck with her.

Qaashoq-Zani (Spoon-hitting)

Very much like Halloween and in full disguise, usually a veil (chador) covering the entire body, longing youths go to seven different houses and make a noise by hitting a bowl with a spoon to signal the household residing in the house. Being presented, by the household, with some treat betokens a positive omen, and vice versa.

Faal-e-Gusheneshini (solitary telling of the fortune)

Young women longing for a spouse make a wish, then having hidden themselves in some invisible dark corner of a passage, listen to the passers-by’s talks, according to which they decide whether their wish will or will not be fulfilled; passers-by’s positive talk signifies good omens, and unpleasant words point to some ill portent.

Kuze-Shekani (earthenware jar-shattering)

The household put some coal, as the sign of ill omen, and some salt, standing for evil eye, plus a cheap coin, signifying poverty, inside an earthenware jar. They turn the earthenware jar around their heads one by one. Then, one of them throws the jar over the roof onto the alley. Thus, ill omen, evil eye and poverty are driven out of the house.

Gereh-Goshaee

Similarly, women yearning to tie the knot or persons who have run into some problem, make a knot at the corner of a handkerchief or some other garment and request the first person whom they come across to undo it. The personâ s willingness will signal a hopeful portent.

Shaal-Andazi (shawl-dropping)

In some parts of the country, young boys, who are engaged, drop a shawl or wraparound down from the roof of their fiancà e’s house and she would present him with some confection or other present. Along with these rites, there are also others such as making soup for the sick, discarding the outworn furniture, etc. In some areas, the young get their horses out and make a performance on it before the night falls on.

Etihad Airways has enjoyed its busiest northern summer period in its four year history with more than 1.6 million passengers flying onboard the Abu Dhabi-based airline’s flights during the months of June, July and August. Capping a hugely successful northern summer, a record 20,721 passengers flew with Etihad on Friday 1 August making it the airline’s busiest day.

The northern summer months also saw Etihad flights operate at an average of 83 per cent full, an increase of 46 per cent on the same period from the year before.

Etihad has now flown more than four million passengers across its network of 48 destinations so far in 2008, indicating that the airline is well on track to achieve its target of carrying six million passengers by the end of the year.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ chief executive, said: “The summer has been a great success with more than 1.6 million passengers flying with Etihad Airways. “Whilst June, July and August are traditionally the busiest months of the year for most airlines, the record number of passengers who flew with us underlines the considerable impact Etihad is having on the aviation industry.” Etihad’s flights to Asia services turned in a particularly strong performance during the northern summer with seat factors averaging 81 per cent. Passenger loads in the business cabin averaged 83 per cent for the Kuala Lumpur service and 79 per cent for the Bangkok route.

Within Europe, London Heathrow exceeded loads of 91 per cent and Munich 88 per cent. Flights to Brussels, Dublin, Manchester and Paris all achieved average seat factors of more than 80 per cent in the economy cabin.

Routes in the Middle East performed well also during the northern summer including Cairo and Damascus, achieving overall average seat factors of 80 per cent.

Mr Hogan added: “As ever, we are grateful for the support we continue to receive from Abu Dhabi Airports Company, Abu Dhabi Airport Services and the Department of Transport, whose close cooperation has paved the way for Etihad to extend its global network still further, with the launch of new services to Kazakhstan and Russia in the coming months.” Etihad introduced three new destinations in August to the Indian cities of Kozhikode and Chennai as well as the Belarus capital city, Minsk. Etihad will launch in December non-stop flights from its Abu Dhabi base to Almaty in Kazakhstan and the Russian capital, Moscow.

Etihad will also boost its flying programme to Australia in October, with an increase to its existing daily service to Sydney to 11 flights per week. The same month will also see Etihad add a third daily flight to London Heathrow, the world’s busiest international airport.

The Marmara Hotels & Residences is offering Cultural Experience Packages that bring history to life in three of Turkey’s most enchanting cities.

Each offers a glimpse of Turkey’s rich history and culture, hospitality and access to its top sites. From mosques and palaces to modern museums and ancient ruins, from bazaars to Turkish cuisine, outdoor adventures and awe-inspiring scenery, discover it all with one of these Marmara Cultural Experience Packages.

Guests can choose from the mesmerizing excitement of Istanbul, the beautiful Mediterranean coast of Antalya or the charming seaside town of Bodrum, or combine the city and seaside packages for one unforgettable journey.

City Excitement — From its prime city center location in historic Old Istanbul, The Marmara Pera offers easy access to museums, shopping, Istanbul’s top sites and exciting nightlife. Explore the only city in the world located on two continents. The Marmara Pera Cultural Experience Package includes three nights accommodation in a superior room; daily buffet breakfast; complimentary wireless Internet access; use of traditional Turkish hamman at The Marmara Istanbul; Turkish raki and nuts served in-room; Turkish coffee and Turkish Delight at the Marmara Café; half-day city tour of Old Istanbul; and tickets to the Sabanci Museum, the Istanbul Modern Museum and the Pera Museum. Rates range from 588 euro to 918 euro per couple, exclusive of tax and service.

Beach Retreat — The Marmara Antalya Beach & Resort in southern Turkey is the world’s only revolving hotel. Located along the Turquoise coast with stunning views of the Taurus Mountains, the resort features its own private beach, a pool, a spa, a man-made river for watersports, and convenient access to the region’s archeological and historical attractions.

The Marmara Antalya Cultural Experience Package includes four nights accommodation in a deluxe room with sea view, daily buffet breakfast at Tuti Restaurant, daily buffet dinner at Tuti Restaurant, complimentary wireless Internet access, chocolate platter in-room upon arrival, one massage, full-day tour to Kekova-Myra-St. Nicholas and a full-day 4×4 Jeep tour to Beskonak-Koprulu Kanyon-Selgel. Rates start at 1276 euro per couple, exclusive of taxes and service.

Seaside Charm — The Marmara Bodrum is a five-star resort in the St. Tropez of Turkey. Located on a hilltop overlooking the Aegean Sea, the luxury boutique resort is a seaside retreat with an award-winning spa and private yacht for sailing trips along the coast. Sleepy fishing villages, the ruins of ancient cities, the Temple of Zeus at Labranda and The Mausoleum of Halikarnossos — one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World — are all easily accessible from the resort. The Marmara Bodrum Cultural Experience Package includes four nights’ accommodation in a deluxe room, daily breakfast, complimentary wireless Internet access, and spa credit of 25 euros per person per stay. Rates start at 1,570 euros per couple, exclusive of tax and service.

The Marmara Cultural Packages are offered through Dec. 31, 2008, based on availability. Rates are based on double occupancy and taxes and service are additional.

For more information, visit www.themarmarahotels.com

Skywards, the frequent-flyer program of Emirates Airline, has recently introduced a new update to its program that offers members the ease of using their Skywards Miles to upgrade eligible Emirates flights online with just a few clicks.

Members can now have 24/7 access and a choice of nine different languages to complete their upgrade.

By using the Manage a Booking facility, members can simply enter a booking reference number and last name to view eligible flights and upgrade options.

In one simple transaction, all passengers in the same booking can be upgraded for an entire journey or individual sectors. Members can also upgrade friends and family online with their own miles.

When customers upgrade using the Skywards Miles booking facility, they will gain all of the benefits of traveling in the higher class. This includes additional baggage allowance, lounge access and chauffeured transportation (where applicable, and must be requested 48 hours prior to departure). There are no service fees for redeeming miles online, and with Skywards upgrade rewards starting from just 5,000 miles, Skywards members now have an easy and convenient means to enjoy the luxury of Emirates premium cabins.

For more information and online demonstration, visit www.skywards.com

Anantara Hits the Roof

The South Sea Pearl Mystic Treatment

Dubai: Inspired by the mysterious glamour of the unique South Sea Pearl, a luxe and exclusive two and a half hour body ritual has been launched at the dazzling new Anantara Spa, bringing new heights to the kingdom of spas on the island of Bali.

The launch of the ultra indulgent and lavish South Sea Pearl Mystic spa experience includes a therapeutic signature pearl massage, facial and a choice of desirable South Sea Pearls that are stunningly priced up to USD$5000 plus tax and service charge.

Making for one of the world’s most decadent spa treatment experiences, spa guests are presented with a premium range of individually crafted South Sea Pearls and jewelry to choose from to complement their exclusive treatment.

The pearl treatment which features the use of essential oils bound with elements of the world’s finest natural South Sea Pearl Powders, is delivered at the resorts’ Anantara Spa which has been perfectly positioned to take advantage of spectacular skyline mountain vistas and adjacent ocean horizons from floor to ceiling glass windows.

“The South Sea Pearl Mystic treatment is a high-level concept and experience we introduced to parallel our stunning oceanfront location and cutting edge resort features. This treatment is an experience unlike anything else and one we especially designed to engage our globally discerning and trend savvy guests. Where else can you walk into a spa for a treatment and walk out with a precious gem draped around your décolletage?” said resort General Manager, Ivan Casadevall.

“The South Sea Pearl Mystic experience is priced according to the size, luster and hierarchy of gem chosen to accompany the treatment which can range anywhere from USD$200++ up to USD$5000++” he adds.

The deluxe treatment includes a pampering foot soak followed by a therapeutic 90 minute Rooftop Signature massage using precious natural pearl powders renowned for their rejuvenating and healing properties. Delicately blended with freshly scooped essence of vanilla pods and essential oils it presents for a most extraordinary aromatic experience.

 A 75 minute customized Fruit Facial Ritual using a combination of fresh tropical fruits to deep cleanse, exfoliate and detoxify completes the session at the newly opened spa.

The Anantara Spa was created to give an illusion of being suspended mid-air with four stylishly appointed air-conditioned private spa suites, spa reception and adjacent all glass fitness and weights room with outdoor deck that all offer indulgent 180 degree skyline views.

The timber and glass motif paneled spa suites also feature mood enhancing dimmer lights, contemporary Zen inspired furnishings such as volcanic stone foot baths, plush carpets over stained mocha timber floors, floor to ceiling windows with brilliant island views and a private indoor rain shower with adjacent washstand and footstools.

A double treatment room of exacting design caters for romantic couple treatments and features the addition of an oversized bathtub abundantly filled with aromatic fresh flower petals for every treatment.

Guests are further indulged at the Anantara Spa with a choice of IPod music piped throughout state of the art Bose sound-docks, extra long and wide massage tables, rich burgundy and bronze trimmed bathrobes, raffia-woven slippers, plush towels and signature spa amenities.

The Anantara Spa opens 10.00am-9.00pm daily and offers a menu of body and beauty treatments for men and women including reflexology, manicure and pedicures, facials and body conditioning scrubs.

 

Rejoice in Azur-All-Day Dining restaurant and share with your family and friends a regal Iftar Buffet.

Every evening, feast on an array of authentic Arabic dishes and mouth-watering delicacies with classic specialties, a main feature of Azur Buffet. Break your fast with fresh dates and start with a traditional lentil soup and mezzeh comprising of hummus, moutabel, fattoush and from the hot section, falafel, sambouseh and kebbeh. Live cooking and meat carving stations, including a large selection of Oriental mix grills from our Kamados barbecues, will delight the most robust appetite.

No less than four salad bars and a choice of vegetarian and seafood dishes will ensure the healthiest palate is left satiated as well.

Finally, end on a sweet note with a delectable assortment of Arabic pastries and sweets, and indulge in a selection of appetizing desserts such as Um Ali, Mouhalabia and puddings. Azur-All-Day Dining restaurant is overlooking the tropical Raffles Botanical Garden and offers a choice of indoors and outdoors dining areas.

Special Azur Iftar Buffet - 200.00 AED including drinks
Regular Dinner Buffet – 225 AED excluding drinks
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Daily Operation Hours during Ramadan:

• Closed for Breakfast and Lunch
• Iftar Buffet from 18:00 to 21:00 hrs
• Dinner Buffet from 21:30 to 24:00 hrs
For Dining Reservations and Enquiries, please call directly +971 4 314 9888 or Email: dining.dubai@raffles.com

All prices are Dirhams and include 10 % Municipality Fees & 10 % Service ChargeStep into the majestic lounge of Raffles Salon and revel in its timeless elegance and graceful décor. The dramatic interior is accentuated with imposing hand-carved Egyptian columns, brass chandeliers, and adding a nostalgic touch from another era, mementos dating back from the 1950’ – 1960’ from the original Raffles Singapore, carefully kept under glass.

The refined atmosphere of Raffles Salon is the perfect retreat for informal gatherings with friends and loved ones or to conduct meetings with associates and business partners. This elegant yet inviting lounge sets the tone every evening during Ramadan, with live renditions of traditional Oriental music.

Enjoy Arabic juices, coffee and soft drinks while nibbling on Arabic sweets, dates and Raffles pastries and let you transported away from the city hustle and bustle for one night.

Live Oriental music every evening
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Daily Operation Hours during Ramadan: from 18:30 to 02:00 hrs

For Dining Reservations and Enquiries, please call directly +971 4 314 9888 or Email: dining.dubai@raffles.com

All prices are Dirhams and include 10 % Municipality Fees & 10 % Service Charge

With its Balinese-inspired décor, soothing water features and inviting indoors and outdoors setting overlooking the lush Raffles Botanical Garden, the exotic Crossroads offers the ideal respite during Ramadan.

Inside, sit back and relax while enjoying an assortment of selected Cold Arabic mezze and refreshing juices. Alternatively, take advantage of the ideal weather and picturesque location with the outside patio, complete with a secluded pagoda and informal setting of cozy armchairs, and surround yourself to the scenic atmosphere.

Our Shi Sha Sommelier will be on hand to recommend innovative combinations of fruity flavors and unique tastes never tried before, mixed with infused tobacco.

Experience true lounging, Raffles style!

Dress Code: Smart Casual
Serving non alcoholic beverages only
Operation Hours during Ramadan: daily from 19:00 to 03:00 hrsFor Dining Reservations and Enquiries, please call directly +971 4 314 9888 or Email: dining.dubai@raffles.com

All prices are Dirhams and include 10 % Municipality Fees & 10 % Service Charge

Ramadan: Daily Operation Hours for Raffles Dubai’s Restaurants & Bars:
Fire & Ice – Raffles Cellar & Grill:
Raffles Grill from 19:00 to 24:00 hrs
Raffles Cellar from 19:00 to 03:00 hrs

Asiana Restaurant:
Serving Breakfast from 06:30 to 10:30 hrs (120 AED per person including drinks)
Lunch from 12:30 to 15:30 hrs
Dinner from 19:00 to 23:30 hrsThe Noble House:
Dinner from 19:00 to 23:30 hrs

New Asia Bar: Closed during the whole month of Ramadan

China Moon: 19:00 to 03:00 hrs with pipeline music

Celebrate Ramadan at RafflesAmrita Spa

A unique oasis of relaxation and blissful pampering, RafflesAmrita Spa is a true haven of serenity. With our RafflesAmrita Spa Ramadan Offers, embark on a journey to rejuvenate and cleanse your soul, body & mind, for an unforgettable spa experience.

Arabian Hammam Ceremony - 120 min
Hammam Experience
AED 679

Transition yourself from the world outside, to a peaceful sanctuary here at RafflesAmrita Dubai. This treatment purifies all aspects of our existence, mind, body, and soul bringing ancient Arab civilization to your own personal suite. The Hammam experience will cleanse your body incorporating decadent ancient black eucalyptus soap, followed by several steams and an invigorating exfoliation. A Rassoul mask is then applied to the body and proceeds with a massage for the mind and soul to surrender to. Immerse yourself in the ceremony of Hammam, we look forward to welcoming you.

Moroccan Scrub - 60 min
Locally Inspired Exfoliation
AED 369

Enchant yourself with history and tradition dating back to the nomad tribes settling in Morocco and Egypt. Transform your deserted skin with an organic Moroccan Berber Cereal Scrub mixed with luscious floral waters. Glaze the body with exotic perfumed oils whilst a blanket of warmth attends to the infusion of their riches.

Sea Recovery - 90 min
Detoxifying
AED 679

Withdraw from the everyday pressures of the fabulous whirlwind that is Dubai and recover your body and soul with our marine botanicals. You are wrapped in a detoxifying body cocoon followed by a private steam shower. Then luxuriate in a heated Thai inspired massage using a grass bolus of sea salts crystals and lavender flowers. Soothe achy tired muscles and help your body take care of itself.

 

Dubai, UAE; - The Address Hotels & Resorts, the new hotel brand launched by Emaar Hospitality Group (EHG), will assume the management and operations of The Palace, The Old Town hotel within Downtown Burj Dubai. The five star hotel was earlier managed by Sofitel, the hotel management brand of French Accor Group.

Mr Marc Dardenne, Chief Executive Officer, Emaar Hospitality Group, said: “Sofitel’s contribution to developing The Palace, The Old Town as one of the premier hotels in Dubai has been invaluable. We thank them for their support and creating a direction of growth since October 2007.”

He added: “The Address Hotels & Resorts is Emaar’s home-grown five star premium hotel brand and The Palace, The Old Town is one of the prestigious hotel developments by Emaar. By integrating the hotel under The Address umbrella, as a separate collection, we aim to achieve service & operational consistency and efficiency, while enhancing the overall value offering of the hotel group.”

This follows a mutual agreement with Accor Group, following the conclusion of the management agreement. Sofitel Luxury Hotels is developing its own strategy and network in the luxury segment. To have The Address Hotels & Resorts assume the management of The Palace is a logical extension for Emaar, a view shared by both parties.

The current branding of The Palace, The Old Town will continue with The Address Hotels & Resorts managing all operational aspects. This reiterates EHG’s goal of having a diverse bouquet of hotels – some featuring The Address branding and others operated by the hotels company.

Mr Robert Gaymer Jones, Chief Operating Officer, Sofitel Luxury Hotels Worldwide, said: “The Sofitel team has done a very good job since the opening of The Palace, The Old Town and I want to thank them all. The Palace is one of the exemplary hotel destinations in Dubai and we are confident that The Address, Emaar’s own hotel brand will build further on the strong platform of growth we have created for the property. We wish Emaar Hospitality the very best and continued success at The Palace.”

The Address Hotels & Resorts will open three new hotels in Dubai: The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai; The Address, Dubai Mall; and The Address, Dubai Marina. The Palace, The Old Town is located within Downtown Burj Dubai and has 242 well-appointed guestrooms and suites including the imperial suite with an enchanting Middle Eastern ambience.