Shereen Shabnam

When it comes to nature, the best place to enjoy mountain scenery, hiking, skiing is in Engelberg, in the heart of Central Switzerland. A few days at the Kempinski Palace Engelberg saw us enjoying a host of activities that included long walks, taking a cable car ride up to the mountains, experiencing a heart stopping suspension bridge walk, sliding down a mountain to trying local cuisine and more.

We arrived in Engelberg using the luxurious Swiss Trains to the attractive village is known for its famous monastery and unforgettable alpine experience surrounding the Engelberg-Titlis area.

We arrived at the Kempinski in time to enjoy their 1st anniversary since opening as well as celebrating the brand which was founded 125 years ago and currently has 79 five start hotels in 34 countries across the globe.

The Kempinski Palace Engelberg is an exceptional tourist destination at any time of year and exudes new charm after being extensively renovated, restored and extended with the addition of a new building. For the design, local materials such as wood and stone is used and influenced by local craftsmanship and traditional techniques, which are given a modern twist and inspired by Alpine motifs.

The charm and the unique history of the historic hotel complex was retained using modern construction methods and resulted in a luxurious retreat, with spectacular views of the nearby mountains.

The hotel regained its status as a luxurious, elegant and comfortable year-round destination for both Swiss and international travellers for rest and relaxation end of day after the thrill of sports such as skiing, bobsleigh and skeleton in winter and hiking in the spectacular nearby mountains.

As we entered the impressive lobby, we were greeted with refreshing drinks in a relaxed area with an informal vibe and a view of the inviting landscape of the adjoining gardens.

The winter garden is a perfect place for a morning cup of coffee or afternoon cup of tea, with a focus on relaxation and enjoying the unique views. The décor convinces with its cool texture and its shape against the background of the original terracotta floor tiles.

Before our wholesome dinner, we headed to the “Palace Bar” for mocktails and immersed ourselves in an ambient area complete with a fireplace lounge and a horseshoe-shaped bar. This warm atmosphere richly decorated ceiling is a popular meeting place for guests.

Breakfast was served in the “Cattani Restaurant” connected to the Winter Garden and we had impressive views of the mountain landscape while sipping steaming coffees and hot chocolate.

The hotel has an impressive spa complete with a sauna and steam room, but it is the relaxation lounge that impresses us the most. The Spa focuses on the forces of nature, restoring clients inner balance using the restorative effects of plants, flowers, and herbs in all treatments. The Spa is equipped with a fitness room with state-of-the-art equipment such as bikes, treadmills, cross trainers and more.

The pool area uses differences in depth to create stepped seating areas made of dark stone, which radiate both feelings of intimacy and a unique appeal. The pool speaks for itself with its glazed frontage, providing panoramic views of the mountains.

The rooms and suites stand out with their warm atmosphere thanks to the use of materials such as brushed oak and luxurious light-brown leather. The bathroom was large and designed like a private oasis of wellness and relaxation. We found more hidden treasures during our hotel tour as we noted expressive mosaic and marble elements, historic floor tiles and antique serving trolleys.

While staying at the hotel, we took a trip to the top of Mt. Titlis using the Titlis Xpress and the TITLIS ROTAIR, the world’s first revolving cable car.  On Mount Titlis, we experienced the Titlis Cliff Walk, Ice Flyer Chairlift, Titlis Glacier Park and had a wonderful lunch with scenic views of the alps.

Kempinski Palace Engelberg is easily accessible thanks to its central location by the spa gardens and proximity to the Engelberg train station. Getting to the hotel is a few minutes’ walk from the train station.

We flew SWISS to Zurich from Dubai and used the SWISS Travel System trains to get Engelberg. Exploring Switzerland using the Swiss Travel Pass by train, bus and boat is always a wonderful experience with panoramic views on trains or relaxed boat cruises.

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Shereen Shabnam

Located on the pristine beach of Al Marjan Island, Rixos Bab Al Bahr has an all-inclusive concept that has proven to be a success with both local and international visitors. The ‘All inclusive – All Exclusive’ stay at Rixos Bab al Bahr is a signature offering from Rixos Hotels, who are experts in luxury all-inclusive concept.

We stayed at the Rixos Bab Al Bahr and experienced the essence of traditional Turkish hospitality, as is the trademark of the hotel chain. The concept very aptly accommodates the Turkish hospitality philosophy of extending attention and services beyond imagination, making every guest’s experience an exclusive one.

Rixos Bab Al Bahr’s iconic pyramid-shaped buildings are home to 715 luxurious rooms and suites, with stunning views of the ocean. Housed along the white sandy beach of Marjan Island, and the resort’s eight swimming pools, basketball and tennis courts offers something for everyone at the hotel, regardless of their age or lifestyle.

There are also eight swimming pools, motorised water sports and the Teen’s Club offers a busy activity schedule with DJ classes, billiards and PS4 tournaments.

The five-star hotel offers an all-inclusive package that gives visitors access to dine free at any of its seven restaurants. Rixos Bab Al Bahr proudly presents an assortment of Restaurants and Bars of true gastronomical experiences from all around the world. Guests looking for something more relaxed can head to the Lobby Lounge that offers a wide selection of freshly brewed coffee and teas. The Pool Bar and the Sea & See beach bar are also great places to enjoy the sun and sand.

The hotel offers a mix of deluxe and premium rooms as well as family, junior, senior and king suites, the property is ready to cater to all family sizes. The ‘All inclusive – All exclusive’ stay at Rixos Bab Al Bahr includes unique dining experiences in several restaurants and bars, a night club, spectacular evening entertainment programs, Rixy Club and Teen’s Republic, Rixos Royal Spa with a marvelous Turkish Hammam, on-site souk for local artifacts, accessories and souvenirs. Active guests can enjoy water activities and excursions at an additional charge.

The ultra ‘All Inclusive – All Exclusive’ offer at Rixos Bab Al Bahr goes beyond comfortable stay and limitless dining. A daily dose of live entertainment designed by resort’s dedicated, professional and extremely talented entertainment team caters to the preferences of guests of all ages.

The Resotrt’s live shows and performances features a live band performance of different genre of music as well as instrumental and acoustic to set the mood with dance shows, and performances by artists of international eminence.

The water sports facilities at the resort under the supervision of a well-trained team. Guests can go sailing or kayaking at leisure, surrender to the winds as they go windsurfing, opt for banana or jet skiing if they enjoy riding the waves or go fishing for a pastime.

For families traveling with kids, staying at the Rixos Bab Al Bahr, will benefit from the exclusive Rixy Club that offers an exceedingly proficient and multi-lingual team, dedicated to turning children’s experiences to memorable moments through age-tailored entertainment programs.

My daughter toured Teen’s Republic, the club for the teenagers offering a gamut of activities. Guests can also indulge in the exclusive shopping haven at the resort that sells local artifacts, souvenirs and accessories and take back home tangible memories of our weekend away.

For down time, enjoy the Rixos Royal Spa, which has a myriad of treatments and rituals as well as contemporary practices specific to Rixos’ Turkish heritage like the Turkish Hammam, which is one of the spa’s signature areas, delivered with great authenticity.

Ras Al Khaimah is only a short drive from Dubai and the Emirate features endless sandy beaches, untouched deserts and favorable weather all year round, which facilitate an array of tourist attractions.  And Rixos Bab Al Bahr is a must stop to get an all-inclusive worry free few days to relax and unwind.

#Rixos #RixosBabAlBahr #RAK #RasAlKhaimah #Staycation #Holiday #Hotel #Resort #AlMarjanIsland #UAE