In the city that never sleeps, choosing the perfect hotel is your gateway to the heartbeat of the Big Apple. From chic boutique accommodations to iconic landmarks, New York hotels are as unique as the city itself.
Craving the vibrant sounds of NYC? Look no further than the Belvedere Hotel. It lies within walking distance of both Broadway and the iconic Radio City Music Hall, allowing you to savour the city's rhythm and then conveniently stroll back at the end of the night, not before experiencing an unforgettable performance. With rooms spread out over 17 floors, this 1920s Art Deco style building offers some great views, but for a real bird's eye view, the Rockefeller Center is just over ½ mile away, with its 70th floor viewing platform. The hotel’s Brazilian-themed Churrascaria Plataforma restaurant offers an unlimited lunch and a range of mouthwatering specialities for dinner. Maybe you’ll go for parmesan-crusted steak, followed by espresso chocolate and pistachio ricotta cake.
At Holiday Inn Express Wall Street the suits are crisp, the breakfast is complimentary, and the only white-collar crime is taking too many cinnamon rolls from the buffet – a true getaway from Belfort (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) in The Wolf of Wall Street film. And while you can’t just casually stroll into the New York Stock Exchange, you can still take a walk around the block to see the iconic building. The hotel’s under 1 mile from the ferry port for services to Liberty Island, where you can get up close and personal with New York’s most famous lady, while taking in fantastic views of the city’s iconic skyline.
Prefer to stay somewhere with small town vibes? You should consider a stay at The Andrew Hotel in Long Island. It’s just a 20 minute taxi ride from JFK Airport and on the doorstep of Great Neck Station, with regular trains to both Penn Station and the iconic Grand Central Station. The restaurant offers a truly international affair with Greek, Turkish, Persian, Chilean and Moroccan specialities to make your selection from. The menu features a selection of fish and kosher dishes, while vegetarians have a choice of nearby diners that’ll cater for their needs.
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Las Vegas
Nicknamed ‘Sin City’, Las Vegas is the ultimate fantasy escape. This high-drama, the neon-lit resort is the only place in the world that you can tie the knot on the top of the Eiffel Tower, party 24 hours a day, enjoy a three-course meal by an erupting volcano or shop in an arcade more magnificent than its designer merchandise.
Things to do
There’s nowhere on the planet as bold, glitzy and outrageous as Las Vegas. With its luxurious hotels, famous casinos and glamorous shows, the Strip is full of life, while the desert beyond is dramatic and beautiful. Here are the sights you really shouldn’t miss on your trip to Las Vegas.
Fabulous Las Vegas
When you think Las Vegas, it’s hard not to think of neon lights, jumping fountains and grand hotels. The Strip is a constantly evolving, seething mass of vibrant fun, where you can get to know the soul of the city. As the sign says, "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas". Take your pick from spectacular Cirque du Soleil shows, iconic landmarks like Caesars Palace and the MGM Grand, and breathtaking performances from legends such as Elton John.
Casino fun
Las Vegas is famous for its epic fight nights, and if you’re lucky enough to be in town when there’s a boxing extravaganza you’re in for a treat. There’s no need for a special occasion to play the tables or slots in the iconic casinos, but keep in mind that you should only play with what you can afford to lose. There’s a reason why the hotels and casinos are all so luxurious, and why you get free drinks while you sit at a gaming table!
Natural attractions
The Mojave Desert surrounds Las Vegas, and it’s a great place to explore and escape the city for a while. The Grand Canyon meanwhile is around a two hour drive away, so go on a tour or hire a car and visit one of the world’s most stunning natural attractions. If you’re feeling flush from a win at the casino, take an unforgettable helicopter ride to the canyon.
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Hong Kong
A city break in Hong Kong offers endless nights cruising through markets and shops, and long days spent sightseeing or exploring. From cultural landmarks and historic places of worship, to museums and authentic cultural experiences, there are several activities to keep you busy in this bustling city.
Things to do
Asia holidays are packed with things to do, and Hong Kong it small but mighty. From cruising on a traditional Chinese sailing ship, to observing the city from a bird’s eye view, there are plenty of ways to experience Hong Kong. Stay busy by making your way through the numerous quirky markets, or visit the museums and cultural landmarks to get a better knowledge of the city’s history.
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Qatar
Holidays to Qatar are exotic, glamourous and rich in cultural attractions. From winding souqs to sweeping sand dunes, all set against the backdrop of Doha’s glittering skyline. And the weather is magnificent all year round. Perfect if you’re chasing some winter sunshine. From October to December, you can bask in highs of 25-36'C and swim in the toasty 24-31'C gulf waters. And when the sun dips, join the locals at the bustling markets. It’s the best way to make the most of those cool Arabian nights.
Things to do
Qatar is much smaller than its Middle Eastern neighbours, so you could easily reach the top and bottom of this miniature nation in just two hours (by car). Stroll along Doha’s crescent promenade, sandboard over Khor Al-Adaid’s infinite sands, and snack on scrumptious baklavas as you labyrinth through Souq Waqif. Qatar holidays are luxurious, exciting and full of mystic charm.
Beach days
There are so many beaches along Qatar’s vast 350-mile coastline, all with pristine sands and warm turquoise waters. From the cityside beach of Kataras to the inhibited island of Al Safliya, you’ll be spoilt for choice. For waterslides, doughnut rides and a safe paddling for little ones, hop on a boat to the crescent-shaped Banana Island. If it’s seclusion and nature you’re seeking, then you’ll want to book a 4x4 to Zekreet to see the gazelles and deer roaming freely.
History and culture
Amongst the ambitious high-rises of Doha, many of Qatar’s famous sights will transport you to a time gone by. The region offers an incredible glimpse into the past, from the archaeological sites at Al-Zubarah Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the mud mortar Barzan Towers, watching over the Doha skyline.
Family adventures
The whole clan will find plenty of thrills and spills with a holiday to Qatar, from the largest theme park in the Middle East, Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park, to the only e-gaming hubs on the continent. And when you’re not racing down water slides and hanging out in video game lounges, there are some amazing museums to educate and inspire. A must-see is Kidzmondo, where your little ones can play dress up in a purpose-built mini-city.
Shopping in the Souqs
Middle East holidays are renowned for their shopping potential. Souq Waqif is the best place to find some authentic market style treasures. A tableau of classic street life, you’ll breathe in jute baskets of aromatic spices, witness mesmerising costume parades, and can even learn about its historic pearl trade. Make sure to order your travel money before you go, so you can flex your bargain-hunting skills.
Thrill-seeking
If you’re seeking high adrenaline thrills, you’ve got to book a trip to Qatar at least once in your life. This nation offers wild adventures across land, sea and air. Think quad biking across the sprawling sand dunes of Khor al-Adaid, free-falling from 12000ft down to Um Al Shkot and climbing the rocks of Zakreet National Park. Qatar is also a watersports haven. You can wakeboard, paddleboard, kayak and snorkel your way through the Arabian sea.
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Dubai
A city like no other, Dubai holidays effortlessly combine traditional Middle Eastern charm with seven-star glamour. This record-breaking hotspot is one for the bucket list. After all, it’s home to the world’s tallest building, luxury seven-figure yachts and the world’s largest mall.
And if the city’s skyscraper vistas haven’t won you over, its exotic desert backdrop will. Take on those colossal dunes via a 4x4 safari or quad bike, before stopping off for a cup of traditional Bedouin tea. Or, you can always explore the epic terrain from above with a hot air balloon adventure. But if you prefer your sand gently sloping into the Persian Gulf, then Sunset Beach should be your go-to.
Travelling with kids in tow? Dubai city breaks are perfect for families, from LEGOLAND® to Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark. MOTIONGATE™ is a total must-visit for avid Shrek and Hotel Transylvania fans. And when you want to taste gourmet flavours in the shape of super-size gummy bears, Candylicious has your sugar rush covered.
Things to do
From action-packed skiing sessions to haggling at souks and relaxing spa days in fancy five-star Dubai hotels, there’s plenty to take your fancy here. Whether you’re enjoying the city’s opulent shopping scene or sampling its outstanding spice-filled cuisine 50 metres above the ground at Dinner in the Sky, Dubai city breaks are made up of world-first things to do.
Camera on standby! The views from the Burj Khalifa’s highest observation deck are unforgettable to say the least. Think colossal ultra-modern architecture, sweeping sea vistas and a bird’s eye view of the world’s tallest performing fountain. Top tip: head here at night and watch the city glow under the moonlit sky. All that sightseeing can work up an appetite, so your next stop should be Burj Al Arab for a stylish brunch.
Beaches
Middle East holidays are famed for their glimmering skyscrapers. But futuristic cityscapes aside, Dubai is also home to many incredible beaches. Every sand spot across the city is glistening clean, well-maintained, and packed full of superb facilities.
Sunset Beach: Sunset Beach (Umm Suqeim Beach) offers a peaceful retreat to relax, unwind and bask in the glorious sunshine. It’s one of the quieter coastal spots in Dubai, making it perfect for an undisturbed morning jog and the ideal place to watch the sunset (of course!). And the scenery is just as impressive with the Burj Al Arab decorating the backdrop.
The Beach: For somewhere a little livelier, pay a visit to The Beach by JBR. Here, the soft, golden sands are framed by outstanding restaurants and bars, where you’re invited to overindulge throughout the day. Take in the bustling cosmopolitan atmosphere and watch the Arabian Gulf shimmer in the distance.
Shopping
From grandiose mega malls to the traditional bazaars on the Deira side of Dubai Creek, Dubai holidays offer a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. Whether you want to snap up a souvenir from an open-air market or update your wardrobe with glamorous designer labels, there’s no better place to get your retail fix.
Dubai Mall: Located next to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping destination and a paradise for big spenders, boasting over 1,200 stores and hundreds of eateries. Avid shopaholics can also pay a visit to Bloomingdales, one of America’s most famous department stores. Besides its vast range of designer boutiques, Dubai Mall is also home to an ice rink and aquarium!
Gold Souk: For a truly enriching day of retail therapy, head to Gold Souk in Old Dubai. Here you’ll find a mesmerising labyrinth of walkways teeming with handcrafted goods and beautiful jewellery. From authentic Arab designs to glistening bespoke pieces, pick up a dazzling souvenir from one of the most enchanting souks across the city. And if you visit, be prepared to haggle!
Food and drink
Dubai’s cuisine consists of a rich fusion of Persian, Indian, and Bedouin influences, to name a few. One of the most popular dishes is Margoogat. This flavourful tomato-based stew is cooked with turmeric, cumin and the warm bezar spice mix. It’s well-loved for its delectable blend of Arab spices and is typically made with chicken or lamb. Wash this delicious recipe down with a traditional Turkish cocktail concocted from pomegranate, citrus, and mint. Other dishes to taste include samboosa (a hot pastry appetiser) and luqaimat (a sumptuous dessert of warm dumplings).
For an unforgettable dining experience, head to Al Hadheerah, a restaurant that flaunts 14 live cooking stations and authentic cuisine from the Middle East. Or, sample delightful dishes prepared by award-winning chefs at Zheng He’s, which offers a beautiful dockside setting and a relaxed atmosphere.
Great nightlife
This futuristic city is continually evolving and has lots to offer in terms of nightlife. From trendy rooftop bars to mega discotheques, Dubai boasts a captivating atmosphere and plenty of places to kick back after the sun goes down.
To experience its bustling nightlife scene in full glory, pay a visit to Madinat Jumeirah, where you’ll find vibrant drinking spots and nightclubs that offer a glamorous evening out. To party on the sand, make your way to Nasimi Beach and join one of many lively cocktail parties.
Located at Meydan Racecourse Grandstand, WHITE Dubai is the biggest club in the city centre. As the world’s first outdoor rooftop venue, expect an impressive music scene and a party all-night-long vibe. Club Boudoir is another popular haunt with its electrifying atmosphere and luxurious interiors made up of red sofas and crystal chandeliers. Wherever you choose to spend your evenings, Dubai’s nightlife will make your city break one to remember.
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Milan
Holidays to Milan whisk you away to one of Northern Italy’s most captivating cities. Synonymous with elegance and sophistication, Milan is among the most fashionable places across the globe, home to iconic brands such as Prada, Gucci and Versace. Here, the streets are lined with trendy boutiques filled with everything from designer clothing to vintage jewellery – every shopaholic’s dream.
Aside from being the style capital of Italy, this trendy city is also renowned for its impressive art, fascinating architecture and luxury dining scene. Stroll around the Pinacoteca di Brera and marvel at the works in the Museo Novecento. Or explore the city’s extraordinary Gothic cathedral before heading over to the Navigli district to enjoy a delicious meal. While Milan holidays are ideal for avid fashionistas, there’s something to delight everyone in this Italian powerhouse.
Fashion capital
Milan is one of the most important fashion capitals in the world, along with Paris, London and New York. It’s particularly famous for its role within the prêt-à-porter clothing category (clothes that are sold ready to wear instead of made to measure). Milanese style denotes charm and glamour, and the city is the birthplace of many of the world’s most influential brands.
Milan hosts its famous Fashion Week twice a year, where fashion lovers come to witness catwalk shows and presentations of the latest trends. The city also showcases other important fashion events, such as the Milano Unica Event. This takes place annually and allows up-and-coming designers the opportunity to showcase their work.
Naturally, there are plenty of places to shop in this vibrant city. The Quadrilatero della Moda is one of Milan’s most popular shopping streets, dotted with high-end shops and local and international brands. Corso Vittorio Emanuele II is home to other fashion stores, such as Zara and H&M.
Cultural landmarks
Milan city breaks are an opportunity to visit fascinating landmarks. This cultural haven is full of awe-inspiring buildings and monuments that tell the tale of Milan’s rich history.
Its most famous structure is the Duomo di Milano, the third-largest cathedral in the world. Complete with 135 spires and 3,400 statues, this Gothic building stands proudly in the Piazza del Duomo, the main city square of Milan. The Duomo di Milano took nearly 500 years to complete and required thousands of artists and sculptors for its construction. Here, visitors can climb up to the roof terrace to enjoy stunning panoramic views across the city.
Another of Milan’s must-visit landmarks is Santa Maria delle Grazie, a unique church and symbol of the city’s Catholic tradition. It's at this outstanding building that you can see Leonardo da Vinci’s unrivalled masterpiece, The Last Supper, displayed across the north wall.
Dazzling city
If you’re looking for places to relax after the sun sets, Milan has it all. Its Navigli district is one of the most-loved places to enjoy an evening of merriment, home to a plethora of restaurants, nightclubs and cocktail bars.
As well as a range of picture-perfect eateries and delightful waterside bars boasting a lively atmosphere, you'll find a choice of high-end restaurants, including Al Pont de Ferr and Carlo e Camilla.
To soak up the party atmosphere, head to Apollo Club, a popular venue that offers a combination of a disco space, a cocktail bar and a restaurant. Or for something truly unique, spend an evening at Nidaba Theatre, where you can enjoy live music performances. Whether you’re after a refreshing tipple or want to dance the night away, look no further than this fabulous canal district for an unforgettable night out.
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