Tasty Turkish treat
Istanbul's most iconic hotel, Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah, has launched a new "Taste of Istanbul" experience for 2015. The two-night stay introduces guests to the best of local food and culture. Guests will be able to navigate the labyrinth of local markets with a guided culinary walking tour led by the hotel's executive chef Arif Dogan. Once back at the hotel, guests can use their freshly sourced ingredients during a traditional Turkish cooking class with chef Dogan, followed by dinner at the hotel's signature Agatha Restaurant. Prices start from €515 (Dh2,062) per night for two, including breakfast. For more information, visit www.jumeirah.com.
All white in Beirut
The luxurious Le Gray Hotel, Beirut, is offering guests the ultimate winter city getaway. Guests can start their day with a delicious and leisurely Mediterranean breakfast before hitting the slopes. Then after a full or half-day skiing, they can unwind at PureGray Health Club & Spa before taking a dip in the hotel's outdoor infinity pool. White for Snow packages are valid until May 31, and prices start from US$352 (Dh1,292) per night. For more information, visit www.legray.com.
Bunker down
If you're looking for somewhere you can combine your penchant for golf and relaxation not too far from home, then the Tee Off and Spa package at Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach and Banyan Tree Al Wadi may be worth checking out. The offer includes three nights' accommodation at either resort plus two rounds of golf at Al Hamra Golf Club. The course is suitable for all levels of golfers and offers great views over Al Hamra lagoon. After a round of golf, guests can pamper themselves at the resort's spa. The Tee Off and Spa offer is valid until October 30 and prices start from Dh1,875 per night, per villa. For more information, visit www.banyantree.com.
Precious times
Abercrombie & Kent, a leading luxury travel company, and Christie's Travel have joined forces to offer guests from the Middle East a collection of memorable art journeys. Guests can enjoy a selection of hand-picked destinations that include experiences such as private viewings of the crown jewels in London or private entry to the pyramids and tombs of ancient Egypt. From Côte d'Azur, Venice, Florence and Rajasthan, to New York, London, Cairo and Beijing, every itinerary features signature "insider access" elements to provide special art experiences. With personal insights from a Christie's specialist, the result is a truly distinctive experience. For more information, visit www.abercrombiekent.ae.
mhealy@thenational.ae
Follow us @TravelNational
Follow us on Facebook for discussions, entertainment, reviews, wellness and news.

