Shaolin kung fu Master Hu offers classes in Bodrum
The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental hotel in Bodrum, Turkey, will offer a holistic retreat by the international expert Shaolin kung fu Master Hu. With more than 20 years of experience studying tai chi, qi gong and the traditional zen tea ceremony, Master Hu will offer a two-day training retreat when guests book into the hotel from October 12 to 16 or October 19 to 22. This will include tai chi classes, qi gong, meditation, the tea ceremony, an Essence massage and more. Prices start at €725 (Dh3,344) per person, per night and include breakfast. Visit www.mandarinoriental.com/bodrum/.
Treat yourself to breakfast in Barcelona
The Hotel Arts Barcelona is offering guests its bed-and- breakfast package from now until December 31. The package includes overnight accommodation in a deluxe room for two, breakfast at Cafe Veranda and two drinks at Frank's Bar. Starting from €400 (Dh1,845) per night, including taxes. Visit www.ritzcarlton.com or call 0052 551 102 2136.
Trek in the Armenian highlands
Secret Compass, a group known for organising expeditions to remote regions, has announced a high-altitude trek across the southern highlands of Armenia, from August 28 to September 6, 2015. The eight-night trek will be relatively strenuous, and guests can expect to trek up to 25 kilometres and carry up to 15 kilograms a day, and experience summit ascents exceeding 3,200 metres. The route will include passing dozens of ruined fortresses, including Baghaberd Fort and the Unesco Tatev monastery. The package will include the full services of a Secret Compass expedition leader, a local guide and drivers, all meals, all transport as outlined in the itinerary, all specialist and safety equipment, all accommodation (including tents) and all local permits. International flights to Armenia, local airport taxes and international visas, tips to local guides, beverages, any costs of a personal nature and personal equipment are not included. Prices start at £1,499 (Dh8,800) per person. Visit www.secretcompass.com for more details.
Family staycation at Rotana
Guests looking to stay closer to home can spend a weekend at Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana in Dubai. The package includes buffet breakfast and lunch at Liwan restaurant, unlimited internet access and a 60-minute massage or facial from Zen spa. Starting from Dh600 per room, per night, including taxes. Visit www.rotana.com or call 04 293 3000.
New flights to Uganda with Flydubai
Flydubai has started flights from Dubai to Entebbe and Bujumbura in Uganda. Dubai to Entebbe direct will depart Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Dubai to Bujumbura, via Entebbe, will depart on Tuesdays and Fridays. A return economy ticket to both locations starts at Dh1,470, including taxes, and departs from Dubai International Airport, Terminal 2. Visit www.flydubai.com.
alane@thenational.ae
