Travel news: turtle season in the Maldives

Plus: Double up in Abu Dhabi this summer; Room for More at Taj Hotels globally; breeze through the heat with Muscat deal; or cruise the Greek Mediterranean.

The bedroom of the deluxe beach pool villa at Velaa Private Island in the Maldives. Courtesy: Velaa Private Island
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Head to Velaa Private Island in the Maldives this July and August for its summer turtle season. Visitors will be able to see turtles hatching on the beaches or dive with the reptiles off the island's coral reefs. "Velaa" means turtle in the local Maldivian language, and the island's owner, Jiri Smejc, has been inspired by the design of the turtle shell. Prices during turtle season start from US$1,848 (Dh6,788) per night for a Beach Pool Villa and kids' club access. For more information, visit www.velaaprivateisland.com.

Double up in Abu Dhabi this summer

Anantara Hotels and Resorts in Abu Dhabi has an enticing summer deal offering a second room or night free until the end of August. The offer includes Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort in the Liwa Desert, Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa and Anantara's three Sir Bani Yas Island resorts. Prices start from Dh754 per night at Eastern Mangroves, including breakfast; and Dh2,146 per villa, per night at Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort. For more information, visit www.anantara.com/abudhabisummer.

Room for More at Taj Hotels globally

The Taj Group has a host of money-saving deals with its Room for More summer packages. Its Suite Saver deal offers guests the opportunity to enjoy Taj's hospitality in opulent suites in exotic locations such as Goa and Kerala or at its luxurious grand palaces. The Suite Saver deal includes 25 per cent off one night's accommodation in a suite, a welcome drink on arrival, breakfast and Wi-Fi. A stay at the Taj Exotica Goa costs from Dh2,228 per night. The offers are valid until the end of July. For more, visit www.tajhotels.com/roomformore.

Breeze through heat with Muscat deal

It may be getting warmer by the day, but there's plenty to see and do in Oman with The Chedi Muscat's Summer Breeze package. Stay in a spacious room with an open-plan bathroom and dine at The Restaurant, where you'll be treated to international cuisine. Guests who book an additional night will receive a complimentary three-course dinner for two. Rooms cost from Dh1,106 per night, including buffet breakfast. For more information, visit www.ghmhotels.com.

Cruise the Med from Istanbul

Fancy spending some time in the Mediterranean this summer? Look no further than a round-trip voyage with Silversea Cruises. The voyage calls in at the Aegean islands of Santorini and Mykonos; Mytilene in Lesbos, rich with architecture and historical buildings, backed by mountains covered in pines and olives; and the small town of Myrina, on the west coast of Lemnos. Youth counsellors on board the Silver Spirit provide care and activities for children. Silver Spirit departs on the nine-day round trip from Istanbul on August 19. The voyage costs from £3,450 (Dh19,630) per person, based on double occupancy. For more information, visit www.silversea.com.