Tag: Luxury travel

The Perfect Dubai Staycation

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Celebrating life’s special moments at InterContinental Dubai Festival City

By Shereen Shabnam

Some hotels quietly become part of the memories you create there. My recent two-night stay at InterContinental Dubai Festival City was exactly that. It was for a birthday celebration for my husband the experience reminded me why some hotels continue to stand out, not through extravagance alone, but through genuine hospitality and thoughtful experiences.

Despite having visited the property countless times over the years for events and meetings, staying as a guest offered a completely different perspective. It allowed me to appreciate not only the hotel’s elegant surroundings but also the seamless way it blends luxury, convenience and warm service.

One of the first things that captures your attention is the setting. Overlooking Dubai Creek, the hotel enjoys one of the city’s most relaxing waterfront locations. During the day, the ever-changing views across the water create a welcome sense of calm, while evenings bring the spectacular IMAGINE light and laser show, transforming the creek into a vibrant canvas of colour and music. Watching the reflections dance across the water from the comfort of the hotel adds a memorable touch to the experience.

The rooms reflect the understated elegance that has long defined the InterContinental brand. Spacious, beautifully maintained and thoughtfully designed, they provide a comfortable retreat after a busy day. Floor-to-ceiling windows make the most of the waterfront setting, allowing natural light to fill the room while framing the city skyline beyond.

For me, however, memorable hotel stays are often defined by the people rather than the facilities, and this was especially true at Anise, where breakfast became one of the highlights of our stay.

The extensive buffet offers an impressive journey through international cuisines, with freshly prepared dishes, vibrant fruit selections, artisan pastries and made-to-order favourites catering to every palate. The genuine warmth of the team wss what I loved most. Every interaction felt personal, attentive and sincere, creating an atmosphere that encouraged guests to slow down, enjoy another cup of coffee and savour the morning rather than simply rushing through breakfast.

Dinner at Karam Al Bahr proved equally memorable. Known for its seafood cuisine, the restaurant delivers beautifully prepared dishes that celebrate the freshness of the ingredients without unnecessary complexity. From perfectly grilled seafood to authentic flavours inspired by the Mediterranean coast, the meal offered a fitting centrepiece for our celebration. We also had dinner the next day at Vista which had great food, great views and a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.

One of the hotel’s greatest advantages is its direct connection to Dubai Festival City Mall. Without stepping outdoors, we had immediate access to an excellent mix of international retail brands, cafés and entertainment. I am a big fan of Marks and Spensers so enjoyed some retail therapy, had a leisurely afternoon stroll through the mall and loved the convenience of having everything within easy reach.

It is this combination of luxury accommodation, outstanding dining, genuine hospitality and effortless convenience that makes InterContinental Dubai Festival City so appealing. I found it perfect for a romantic celebration and a family staycation as my daughter was with us for the stay. It was a great weekend escape without leaving the city.

As someone fortunate enough to experience many hotels around the world, I have learned that true luxury is rarely defined solely by beautiful rooms or impressive architecture. It is found in the warmth of the welcome, the attentiveness of the staff and the moments that leave you smiling long after you have checked out and the InterContinental Dubai Festival City delivered all of those moments during our stay.

Collina Luxury Relais

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Where Alpine Serenity Meets Contemporary Italian Design

Shereen Shabnam

Set within the breathtaking landscape of Clusone in the high valley of Bergamo, Collina Luxury Relais is a striking example of how contemporary hospitality design can coexist harmoniously with nature, heritage, and sustainability. Conceived as a refined five-star retreat, the property blends architectural elegance, understated luxury, and immersive wellness experiences within an environment shaped by the textures and tones of the surrounding alpine landscape.

Originally a villa with a nightclub and outdoor swimming pool, the site has been completely reimagined through a low-impact redevelopment project led by architect Silverio Pezzoli of TecnoArreda Interior Design, with Concreta overseeing the execution of the interiors and common spaces. The result is not merely a hotel, but a carefully orchestrated sensory experience where materials, light, and craftsmanship work together to create a sense of calm sophistication.

The property takes its name from the hillside on which it sits, surrounded by generous green spaces that immediately establish a connection to nature. Guests arriving at the entrance are greeted by an almost seven-metre olive tree, an architectural gesture that introduces the project’s balance between grandeur and organic serenity.

The relais comprises six suites, five independent chalets, and an expansive penthouse featuring a private spa, panoramic terrace, direct lift access, and complete privacy. The chalets, crafted entirely from wood with corrugated aluminium roofs, mirror the earthy tones of the alpine environment while maintaining a contemporary architectural language.

What defines the interiors most profoundly is the material palette. Throughout the property, Concreta has created a dialogue between natural textures and precision craftsmanship. Locally sourced Gré stone from the Lake Iseo region appears extensively across the project, particularly within the spectacular 300-square-metre pool area where resin finishes create a fluid, reflective water effect. The seamless connection between indoor and outdoor pools reinforces the relationship between architecture and landscape, while Swedish fir wood treated in evaporated mocha tones introduces warmth and tactile richness across terraces, pergolas, and chalet exteriors.

Inside, the atmosphere shifts toward refined contemporary elegance. The Beides Restaurant forms the social heart of the property, where grey-stained timber, metal, and glass intersect in a dramatic yet restrained composition. Large glazed surfaces flood the interiors with natural light, while Canaletto walnut, moka-stained fir, aged oak flooring, and Fenix finishes introduce depth and softness to the space. The continuity between interior and exterior materials is particularly striking, with gré cobblestone surfaces extending the visual narrative throughout the property.

The private lounge, featuring a Canaletto walnut floor and visible wine cellar, reflects the project’s broader philosophy of understated exclusivity. Rather than relying on decorative excess, the design focuses on proportion, atmosphere, and the emotional quality of materials.

The wellness component of the property further elevates its luxury positioning. Located in the basement level, the Collina MyPurity SPA has been designed as a sanctuary inspired by the surrounding mountains. A relaxation lounge overlooking the valley creates an immediate sense of stillness, while saunas crafted from Swiss stone pine wood introduce both natural fragrance and wellness benefits associated with reducing heart rate and stress levels. Elsewhere, cave-inspired stone Turkish baths, sensory showers, Scottish showers, and treatment cabins create a multisensory spa journey rooted in elemental design.

Even the fitness centre embraces the property’s immersive approach to wellbeing, offering panoramic views of the iconic Clusone bell tower while integrating state-of-the-art equipment within a visually calming environment.

Sustainability remains central to the identity of Collina Luxury Relais. Beyond aesthetics, the property integrates eco-conscious infrastructure through photovoltaic systems, geothermal probes, and energy-efficient technologies that support both the building’s operational needs and heated wellness facilities year-round. The project demonstrates how luxury hospitality can evolve responsibly without compromising comfort, beauty, or technological sophistication.

For Concreta, whose expertise spans over three decades in bespoke hospitality interiors, the project represents a seamless fusion of craftsmanship, engineering, and contemporary Italian design culture. Together with architect Silverio Pezzoli, the collaboration has produced a destination that feels deeply connected to its environment while delivering the privacy, technology, and refinement expected from a modern luxury retreat.

The Rise of the Solo Journey

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Why personalised itineraries and independent travel are redefining modern exploration

Shereen Shabnam

As a travel and lifestyle journalist, I have come to realise that some of the most memorable journeys rarely happen according to plan. My work often takes me across continents, from reviewing luxury hotels and test driving performance cars across challenging terrains to discovering hidden culinary gems between business meetings. Yet it is often the moments in between the schedules, launches, and itineraries that leave the strongest impression.

A recommendation from a local restaurateur in Malaysia can lead to an unforgettable street food experience in Penang, while a spontaneous detour through the winding coastal roads of Spain can transform a simple road trip into something cinematic. In Switzerland, driving through alpine passes and remote mountain villages offers a rare connection to nature and adventure, while the serenity of the Maldives provides the perfect counterbalance, a place where wellness, stillness, and reflection become part of the journey itself.

Then there is Paris, a city that remains timeless not because of its landmarks alone, but because of its atmosphere, café culture, effortless elegance, and the simple joy of wandering without purpose. Increasingly, these experiences are shaping the rise of personalised and solo travel, where the freedom to move independently allows travellers to connect more deeply with destinations, cultures, and ultimately themselves.

There was a time when solo travel was often viewed as an unconventional choice, reserved for gap-year students, or those simply unable to find company for a trip. Today, it has evolved into one of the most significant shifts in modern tourism. Across luxury travel, wellness escapes, and even corporate journeys, personalised itineraries and independent exploration are becoming deeply desirable experiences for travellers seeking something more meaningful than traditional sightseeing.

What is driving this movement is not isolation, but freedom. Travellers increasingly want the ability to shape journeys around their own interests, pace, and emotional needs rather than compromise within a group dynamic. The modern traveller is no longer simply chasing destinations; they are pursuing experiences that feel personal, immersive, and transformative.

Business travel, interestingly, has become one of the strongest catalysts for this change. Corporate trips today often extend beyond conference rooms and hotel lobbies. Spending time with local clients, colleagues, and industry professionals introduces travellers to a more authentic side of a destination. A recommendation from a local often becomes more memorable than anything in a guidebook. These interactions create a richer cultural connection and encourage travellers to explore independently during downtime, transforming work trips into deeply personal experiences.

Solo leisure travel carries a different, yet equally powerful appeal. Travelling alone cultivates confidence in ways few experiences can. Navigating unfamiliar cities, embarking on long scenic drives, and making spontaneous decisions encourage self-reliance and adaptability. Many travellers describe returning from solo journeys feeling more capable, focused, and emotionally recharged. In a world increasingly dominated by digital noise and rigid schedules, solo travel offers something increasingly rare: uninterrupted personal space.

The travel industry has recognised this shift. Luxury operators, boutique agencies, and wellness brands are now curating highly personalised solo itineraries that combine independence with comfort and security, that includes gastronomy, wellness, adventure, art, sustainability, or culture.

My favourite road trip was in Spain, particularly great for driving enthusiasts who view driving as part of the experience. From the dramatic mountain routes of Andalusia to the coastal highways stretching along the Mediterranean, Spain offers the perfect balance of scenery, culture, and spontaneity. Malaysia continues to attract independent travellers for its extraordinary culinary diversity and accessibility. I lived there for 9 years and love the refined dining in Kuala Lumpur to hawker stalls in Penang.

For those seeking tranquility and restoration, Maldives has evolved far beyond the traditional honeymoon narrative. Many luxury resorts now cater to independent wellness travellers with private villas, spa immersions, meditation programmes, marine experiences, and personalised wellbeing journeys designed around mindfulness. Adventure seekers continue to gravitate toward Switzerland, where nature and precision coexist effortlessly. Scenic rail journeys, alpine hikes, mountain drives, and pristine lakes create a sense of calm while still satisfying the desire for exploration.

Meanwhile, Paris remains one of the world’s most rewarding cities to experience alone. Its beauty lies not only in its iconic landmarks, but in its rhythm, mornings spent at quiet cafés, afternoons wandering galleries, evenings discovering intimate bistros hidden within historic streets. It is a city that invites travellers to slow down and simply absorb its atmosphere. Then there is Singapore, as one of the safest and most seamless gateways into solo travel. Efficient transport, exceptional hospitality, world-class dining, and a cosmopolitan energy allow travellers to move confidently while still experiencing cultural depth and diversity.

Ultimately, the rise of personalised solo travel reflects a broader evolution in how people define luxury and fulfilment. Modern travellers are placing greater value on authenticity, emotional wellbeing, flexibility, and meaningful experiences over rigid itineraries or crowded group tours and solo travel has become a powerful expression of curiosity and confidence.

Vibrant Kathmandu – The Charming city of Nepal

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Dharahara-Bhimsen-Tower-KathmanduNepal-1

By Shereen Shabnam

Exploring the city and outskirts of Kathmandu is an exciting and an intoxicating experience for visitors from around the globe with bustling streets, a large variety of flora and fauna, medieval temples and some of the best hiking and walking trails.

The city has character with old charm architecture intricately carved wooden doors and windows, lively narrow streets filled with shops dedicated to small yet thriving specialist businesses full of different colours, smells with sounds of tourists mixed with locals.

Although I have visited Nepal a number of times, this year I attended the Himalayan Travel Mart, organised with the objective to establish Nepal as a Gateway to the Himalayas and as a destination capable of hosting events at international level. The travel mart hosted around 74 Buyers from 36 countries and over 50 sellers, representing the Himalayan Region, Bhutan, India, Tibet, Indonesia and Nepal.

It is best to arrange a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu City with a visit to the Hanuman Dhoka (Kathmandu DurbarSquare),an ancient durbar (palace) with its numerous old palaces, temples and pagodas. Visit the famous Temple of Living Goddess “Kumari”,and the Kasthamandap Temple, believed to be constructed from the wood of a single tree from which Kathmandu derives its name.

Nepal is a Himalayan Kingdom often referred to as the “Land of Mount Everest” and the “Land of Living Goddess-Kumari”. Abroad, the country is also associated with the heroism of its brave warrior ancestors – the talented “Gorkhas”.

My favourite part of the adventure was visiting a monastery in the mountains and meeting the resident monks. A definite must visit is the Boudhanath Stupa – an ancient colossal stupa and the center of Tibetan Buddhism in the world and the Pashupatinath Temple -the Temple of Lord Shiva situated on the bank of the Bagmati River.

The excursions take time but if you want good views, head toSwayambhunath Stupa, which is situated atop a hill from where you can get a bird’s,eye view of Kathmandu Valley. I also enjoyed the views from the Namo Buddha Stupa, which offers a serene ambience ideal to meditate in.

I fell in love with the local cuisine and yet surprisingly had some of the best international cuisine in the city as well. Who would have thought that the best pizza I would ever eat will be in a quaint restaurant called Fire and Ice in the streets of Kathmandu.

We visited an orphanage as well after a visit to a monastery. The orphanage is part of a CSR initiative called Mission Himalaya, which focuses in providing free education, free healthcare and poverty relief aid to the needy people from the remote and under-developed regions of Nepal.
I spent the last few days exploring the shops and markets with two fashionable and seasoned travellers and together we got fascinated and taken in with the beautiful gemstones, the colourful pashmina shawls, the soothing musical instruments and comfortable yet classic clothes designed to stay trendy for years in places like Indra Chowk to luxury boutiques.

The wide variety of products in all price ranges is attractive to all ages and tourists often head to the Thamel area for souvenirs and handicrafts.

Going back to Nepal ended up being a therapeutic and calming holiday cum work destination that I needed and meeting travel aficionados from all over the world who are passionate about the Himalayas was definitely an added bonus. I look forward to my next visit already.

 

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