Abu Dhabi's Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, Kempinski hotels and Backyard Travel
Say Yas to Abu Dhabi
Beyond the buzzing city, Abu Dhabi is home to dozens of beautiful islands as well as the region’s largest wildlife reserve: the 4,100-hectare Arabian Wildlife Park. That’s where the newly opened Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort comes in. If you can get the name out all in one go, you’re one step ahead of the rest of us. The rustic desert retreat is home to 30 villas, which mesh all of Anantara’s classy amenities with a hint of authentic Arabia, thanks to thatched roofs and natural wooden interiors. It’s ideal for outdoorsy folks who love a good adrenaline rush as much as a laze around the pool. From the hotel’s doorstep, you can drive off on a mountain bike, go four-wheeling, hop in a kayak, snorkel, try your hand at archery or visit the wildlife reserve—or, you know, just admire grazing gazelles from your veranda.
Rooms from $2,872. Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, (+971) 2801-4300, www.al-sahel.anantara.com.
A Winter Miracle
The Chinese New Year holiday is hardly behind us, but it’s never too early to plan your next trip. Kempinski hotels has a deal that’s sure to make your winter a little less gloomy: up to 30 percent off at all 73 of its hotels, which span 30 countries. From the Siam Kempinski in Bangkok to the Grand Kempinski in Shanghai, your next vacation doesn’t have to break the bank. Founded in 1897, Kempinski also has a spot at the Olare Mara Tented Camp in Kenya (with a resident leopard!), as well as Hamburg, Seychelles and St. Moritz. The deal is good till March 15, so get to it.
The Backyard Less Traveled
For those who like a little more structure to their holidays, Backyard Travel offers customized vacations for everything from luxury honeymoons to cycling tours. With offices in Hong Kong and Bangkok, the company oversees trips all over Asia, where local experts will guide you towards the most authentic meals and experiences—all while taking care of accommodation and transport. For example, a 10-day “Ski & The City” itinerary to Japan ($20,311) could include a few days exploring Tokyo, followed by a trip on the bullet train to Nozawa Onsen Village, where a seven-day skiing pass awaits. You’ll be able to sample any of the area’s 36 ski slopes or opt for a few day trips around the region—it’s up to you. The team’s resident travel gurus will help build a personalized plan that checks all your boxes.