1. Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
The brand’s inaugural property in the Middle East, Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a sanctuary nestled on Ummahat Island. The resort is accessible by chartered boat or seaplane from the newly opened Red Sea International Airport. Set amid the powder white sand or perched above the crystalline waters of the Red Sea, 63 one-to-four-bedroom overwater and beach villas are each designed to reflect their natural surroundings, with shell-inspired structures and interiors finished with local art. Each villa features panoramic windows, open living space, a sea-view pool and a telescope for stargazing. An array of five-star amenities includes an indoor-outdoor spa, swimming pools, a kids’ club and a selection of restaurants that focus on modern dining with a traditional spirit include Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and seafood restaurants. The resort’s Conservation Center will provide insights into Saudi Arabian culture, community and environment, while a dedicated diving centre will offer sea adventures both above and below the waves. The resort joins an ultra-exclusive collection of just five other Ritz-Carlton Reserves around the world.
www.ritzcarlton.com/reserve
2. ZEL Costa Brava
Costa Brava, Spain
Honouring the Mediterranean spirit, ZEL, the brand created by Meliá Hotels and Rafa Nadal, has debuted its second hotel. After the success of ZEL Mallorca, ZEL Costa Brava has landed in Cala Giverola, close to iconic Tossa de Mar. Ancestral culture meets natural beauty at the resort, which is nestled between the sea and the mountains. The 214 rooms in one-, two- and three-bedroom categories, feature a design based on natural materials and elements. ZEL Costa Brava combines relaxation and wellbeing activities, connecting guests with an active lifestyle community.
Guests can enjoy up to 46 different sports activities, ranging from court sports, to nature sports or CrossFit and yoga, Pilates, dance, or jiu-jitsu and water sports. Weekly organised activities include swimming circuits, group running sessions, painting, creative cooking classes and social gatherings such as “verbenas” and other festive experiences. Post activities, guests can relax at the spa with a large, heated swimming pool overlooking the mountains, a sun terrace with sea views, a steam room, a sauna and a wide variety of treatments. The hotel will have a Beach Club in Cala Giverola, offering Mediterranean cuisine, as well as a lobby bar, a food truck, a beach bar and several terraces.
www.melia.com
3. Palace Dubai Creek Harbour Hotel
Dubai, UAE
The much-anticipated Palace Dubai Creek Harbour Hotel by Emaar Hospitality Group is now open, ushering in an era of opulent living on the modern waterfront along the historic Dubai Creek. The hotel, which forms part of the Address Hotels portfolio, is near iconic landmarks such as Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and other downtown attractions. In an environment shaped by palatial grandeur and Arabesque influences, 122 rooms with spacious private balconies feature fine furnishings and exclusive design elements. The infinity pool offers stunning canal views, where guests can lounge on daybeds to soak up the sun or dine at Fai Lounge.
The new concept serves as a vibrant pool lounge during the day, transforming into a trendy evening venue with delectable seafood specialties and ceviches, enhanced by a hint of Caribbean influence. Guests can also indulge in Levantine and Arabian delicacies at familiar restaurants such as Ewaan and Al Bayt. Amenities include a 24/7 fitness centre and a colourful Qix Club for children. The on-property spa offers tranquillity with revitalising treatments including massages and advanced bio-lifting.
www.addresshotels.com
