EDITOR'S LETTER:

Last month, I was able to experience the Emirates in ways I never have before, proving that the UAE still has the power to surprise me, even after 15 years.

I took to the skies with a beautiful sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Ras Al Khaimah desert with ActionFlight; I embarked on a glamping eco-adventure in the desert with Sand Sherpa, complete with hawk talks, scorpion walks and S’mores; And I went behind the wheel of a Rolls-Royce Cullinan, taking it into (or rather over) the dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, to test its ‘Effortless, Everywhere’ capabilities. A trio of experiences each celebrating the beautiful natural diversity of this region.

Continuing the theme of Arabia, we also take you on an incredible off-the-beaten-track escape to Aqaba to enjoy some Red Sea dreaming, to a serene pocket of Palm Jumeirah for some urban serenity, and to AlUla in search of relaxation and self-reflection.

We also head to Riga to explore the Baltic beauty’s old-meets-new vibes, embark on a spiritual odyssey through Bhutan and step into the shoes of 007 for an exclusive James Bond-inspired limited edition travel experience from London to Venice.

As we gear up for our big summer escapes, let us know what trips you have planned or what destinations you’d like to know more about. Happy travelling!

Emily Baxter-Priest
Editor-in-Chief