Four perfect escapes for summer 2018

The summer holidays are nigh and with temperatures beginning to soar across the Middle East with the humidity on the rise too, what better time than now to consider a summer break - beat the heat at these four balmy summer destinations

Villa Ducale at Kaya Palazzo Golf Resort Belek, Turkey. Courtesy Kaya Hotels & Resorts

The summer break is nigh, and with temperatures beginning to soar across the UAE and the humidity on the rise, too, what better time than now to consider a holiday? Beat the heat at these top properties.

Take a swing in Turkey

If you're a golfing aficionado, or simply partial to an afternoon on the greens, Turkey has the spot for you. Kaya Palazzo Golf Resort Belek, on the southern Mediterranean coast, boasts 650 comfortable rooms overlooking the sea, with more than half of the suites specially designed for families. Children can take tennis, swimming, football and golf lessons at the Kaya Palazzo Sports Academy or keep themselves occupied at the seven-slide aqua park. For adults, there's the 18-hole championship course – designed by famed golf course 'architect' David Jones – and the onsite clubhouse. With temperatures in the low 30s, it's a far more enjoyable spot to play a round of golf to tide you over until the UAE courses cool down. Rates start from Dh1,600 per room per night. For more information, visit www.kayahotels.com

Immerse yourself in the wilderness

The temperatures in Tanzania are hovering around a balmy 29⁰C with the odd chance of rain, so it's a great time to visit right now. A country rich in culture, rugged nature and wildlife, Tanzania is being touted as a destination for families to experience a safari. You'll be able to witness wildebeest stampeding across the plains, watch elephants reach for the treetops, or gaze upon the silhouettes of giraffes feeding at sunset. The package includes four nights in different areas to explore the best of Tanzania: Arusha, Tarangire, Manayara and Serengeti, a game drive tour in each city, and return flights. Travellers have the option to choose between three-, four- or five-star hotels. The package price starts at Dh8,109, and is valid until late 2018. For more information, visit www.tajawal.ae

Elevate your holiday to new heights

Located in the 142-metre Torre de Madrid, one of the Spanish capital's tallest structures, the five-star Barcelo Torre de Madrid hotel opened in January last year. In the 18 months since, it has become one of the city's most highly rated hotels. During the summer, the property is offering a 35 per cent discount for those holidaymakers booking for three nights or more. Not only will you stay in a city landmark, you'll also be surrounded by them – as it's located close to the likes of the Royal Palace of Madrid, Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol. Rooms start from Dh720 per night. For more information, visit www.barcelo.com

Get romantic in the Maldives

If you only have two stipulations for a summer escape – luxury and a beautiful island – the thought of heading to the Maldives has probably flitted through your mind. Its year-round sunshine, clear waters and ease of access have long made the archipelago an ideal escape for those in the Middle East. This summer, Baros Maldives has its coupled-up visitors covered with a Romance Is In The Air package. You can choose between a stay in one of the island's recently renovated deluxe villas or water villas, and a number of activities included during your stay. Your package includes two-way speedboat transfers and a fruit basket upon arrival. You'll get daily breakfast at the island's Lime Restaurant and one in-villa breakfast. You'll also get a couple's spa treatment, candlelight dinner, sunset cruise, nature walk and bath experience. Room rates start at US$1335 (Dh4,900) per night excluding taxes, and are applicable for a three-night minimum. For more information, visit www.baros.com

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