FLanders: Cycle the Western Front
This one’s for war buffs. Mark the end of the First World War with a cycle tour through Flanders, where the final battles were fought one hundred years ago. The Belgian province is commemorating the poignant anniversary with a series of special events and exhibitions – including ComingWorldRememberMe, a new land art installation, and the temporary exhibition 1918 - The Last Year of the Great War, which runs at the Memorial Museum Passchendaele until November 15. European activity holiday specialist UTracks has an eight-day history-filled trip that traces the First World War’s Western Front line, from Amiens in northern France to Ypres in the Belgian province of West Flanders, priced from £1,195 (Dh6,245) per person. Packages include accommodation, most meals, equipment rental, experienced guides, luggage transfers between hotels (where applicable) and maps. A reflective cycle journey through an area of outstanding natural beauty, steeped in history. Highlights include cycling along the Somme in a rolling landscape, visiting German-built trenches along the Western Front, exploring preserved historic battle sites and the chance to take in some rich culinary traditions while staying in a selection of handpicked hotels. Book at UTracks.com
Peru: Food lover’s Peru
Are you the sort for whom holidays are all about pleasing your stomach? Indulge those taste buds with an unusual trip to Peru, whose chefs have taken the world by storm. This itinerary provides the opportunity to find out what the fuss is all about: unveil the secrets of Peruvian cuisine through cookery classes and chef-escorted tours of local food markets in Lima, Cusco and Arequipa; learn how to make the iconic pisco sour at a hands-on beverage session; prepare your own chocolate using locally grown cacao beans; sample the Andean corn drinks at a traditional chicha bar; and visit the glistening Maras salt pans used since pre-Inca times, followed by a picnic lunch by the river at the Sacred Valley. The 13-day trip launches on October 15 from £2,690 per person. Worldexpeditions.co.uk
Bali: Two beauties
For those who like different experiences on the same vacation, Alila is offering four nights at two of its signature resorts in Bali. Spend two nights in a one-bedroom villa amid the lush rainforest in Alila Ubud, followed by two nights above the ocean at Alila Villas Uluwatu with your own private pool. The deal includes breakfast for two, return airport transfers, interhotel transfer, one dinner and one spa treatment, as well as in-residence hospitalities such as laughter yoga and t’ai chi classes, children’s Balinese dance classes, poolside afternoon tea, butler service, the use of bicycles and more. Rates from $575++ (Dh2,111)per night, for a minimum four-night consecutive stay. Email ubud@alilahotels.com
Bahrain: Wander with the kids
For a quick family break, get away to Bahrain, where The Ritz-Carlton’s summer package affords the opportunity to explore this charming country. The property is set against the backdrop of the Arabian Gulf and has a mile-long white sandy beach, fine-dining and heavenly spa treatments.
Valid from May 1 to September 30, the Wander More package offers up to 20-30 per cent off the best available rate, dining and spa. Package also includes valet parking, free wi-fi and access to Ritz Kids and Royal Beach Club facilities. Ritzcarlton.com/Bahrain
Japan: Experience Kyoto
Immerse yourself in the age-old history of Japan’s erstwhile imperial capital. Sited on the island of Honshu, it was the epicentre of Japanese culture and politics for over 1,000 years, and its importance prompted Allies to reconsider bombing the city in the Second World War. Thousands of shrines, temples and other historically priceless structures survive in the city, which makes it a wonderful cultural experience. The package includes a city tour, as well as other experiences. Men and women can learn how to tie a kimono at the rental store Yumeyakata, and anyone can try their hands at making noodles at the halal-friendly Ramen Factory.
Priced from Dh1,550 for four-star accommodation, available from Al Futtaim Travels or via email at tyamamoto@aviareps.com
Turkey: Family time
With their dedicated children programmes, Grow With Six Senses, Kids Club and immersive family activities, Six Senses Kaplankaya promises families a memorable getaway. Parents can finally focus on playtime through booking Six Senses Kaplankaya’s Family Package where all accommodation types enjoy uninterrupted views of the Aegean coast. Inclusions on a seven-night minimum stay are airport return transfer, 50 per cent discount on second room, free usage of kids club, one kids-free night (complimentary babysitting service for one night). The offer, in the Sea View Ridge Family Villa, is valid for a minimum of two rooms, and is priced at €510 (Dh2,318) per night. Sixsenses.com
