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      The Managing Director of ROAM on what luxury travel in Saudi Arabia entails

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      Exceptional and hyper-curated experiences are upending high-end travel.
      With the launch of ROAM, travellers can experience Saudi Arabia in a new light. Stuart McNair, Managing Director at ROAM discusses what luxury experiential travel means.
      What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      We are in the midst of an incredibly exciting time for Roam. Having launched the brand earlier this month and our mobile camp opening in Tiaf this summer, it’s all hands-on deck. I spend my time between our offices in Jeddah and Riyadh, so early mornings are often spent catching domestic flights and enjoying my fair share of delicious Saudi coffee.
      What was the catalyst to launch Roam?
      When the Kingdom opened itself to tourism in 2019, it created a host of new opportunities for both domestic and international travellers. A genuine new frontier, and the largest country in the Arabian Peninsula, Saudi stretches along the length of the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf. Home to stunning natural landscapes, historical sites and modern architecture, it truly has something for everyone. With so much to offer, it is an exciting time for everyone involved in the travel industry. With our heritage and local experience, Roam hopes to support the evolving landscape by becoming the most trusted luxury travel company in the Kingdom.

      How did the partnership come about between Cool Inc and Pelorus?
      Roam is the result of a joint venture between Saudi luxury and lifestyle hospitality company, Cool Inc, and bespoke travel and yachting company, Pelorus. The partnership came about in order to rewrite the narrative for luxury travel in the Kingdom. Together they have been able to develop a unique strategy that incorporates the essence of Saudi culture and leverages each company’s strengths to create innovative and enduring DMC experiences. By combining Pelorus’ expertise in experiential travel with Cool Inc’s local knowledge and market understanding, Roam can now offer tailored DMC services specifically designed for the Kingdom, setting them apart from their competitors and enabling them to provide unparalleled levels of customer service. This approach distinguishes Roam as a luxury travel and tourism brand that delivers exceptional, one-of-a-kind products and services, contributing to the development of the Kingdom’s tourism infrastructure and making it easier for travellers to discover its beauty.
      You offer a bespoke travel service within unexplored regions in Saudi Arabia – can you expand on this?
      Roam’s multi-vertical, product-driven, and service-led business is made up of four key verticals, including bespoke travel, tour services, accommodation bookings and transportation. The company will also offer aviation, concierge services, brand experiences & events, luxury events & activations and VIP guest management.
      Roam’s unique products include mobile camps, day camps, e-quads and private dining experiences. These products highlight the very best of Saudi Arabia and are available for purchase as part of the company’s bespoke travel service or as standalone experiences.
      Roam will be activating in different regions throughout the year, following the seasons. Destinations include Tabuk, NEOM, Al Ula, Jeddah, Riyadh, Al Ahsa Oasis, and Red Sea from October to March, and Taif, Al Baha, Tanomah, Abha, Jazan region, and Farasan Island from May to September.
      What does it take to launch and offer a hyper-seasonal luxury travel concept in Saudi Arabia?
      At the heart of Roam, are its people. Our team is made up of a majority of Saudi talent, and we expect this to continue to increase as we attract more bright, young Saudis into this budding market. With the experience of living it, we are able to find, craft, and deliver experiences in Saudi year-round. Our mobile camp allows us to capitalise on the cooler temperatures to the south, then move north for the winter months, allowing guests to enjoy the desert regions of AlUla and Tabuk.

      Tabuk
      What are the experiences at Roam?
      Roam aims to be bold in all its endeavours, constantly evolving and developing new experiences for our clients. As we continue to activate new regions across the country, we will be bringing luxury to remote regions for the first time with our mobile camp. In June, the camp will launch in the beautiful, mountainous region of Taif. The first of its kind, the camp will then move across the Kingdom every 8-12 weeks, allowing travellers to experience undiscovered regions of KSA, without having to compromise on comfort or indulgence. Each spectacular remote location offers the perfect weekend getaway for friends, family or colleagues. The camp is designed and decorated to showcase modern Saudi with traditional touches, as well as small attachments that will change to reflect the local region. In addition, our expert team have been scouting out the best locations for trekking, climbing, stargazing and nature activities helping you explore the local area. Our camp equipment will include our own fleet of Land Rovers, electric quads, fat bikes and more.
      “From uncharted areas of the Red Sea, offering world-class diving, to archaeological wonders in Hegra, vibrant cities and ever-evolving Giga projects, Saudi offers an exciting and undiscovered world to explore.”

      Tabuk coast
      What sets the travel industry in Saudi Arabia apart?
      KSA is on the cusp of significant change for Saudi Arabians and international travellers alike. Given the numerous products and services on offer throughout KSA, combined with the fact that it’s a relatively new travel destination, there is so much to be discovered. From uncharted areas of the Red Sea, offering world-class diving, to archaeological wonders in Hegra, vibrant cities and ever-evolving Giga projects, Saudi offers an exciting and undiscovered world to explore.
      This is ‘The Horology Issue’ – time is such a luxury today. What do you think is the future of travel and how we spend this time?
      We must redefine the industry to charm the innovators of tomorrow, become a pioneering and thriving model of excellence and spark an inclusive future, ripe with investment opportunities for all. We believe all this combined means the tourism market in the Kingdom could become very significant indeed, as outlined in Vision 2030.
      May’s – The Horology Issue – Download Now 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      Hotel Café Royal in Paris delivers style, sophistication, and unparalleled service

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      News

      by Amy Sessions
      2 hours ago

      The Stay
      Designed with an incredible ability to seamlessly blend tradition with the modern technology comforts you’d expect from a hotel at this level, you will fully relax and enjoy your stay from a breakfast that caters to every taste to a turndown service that warms the bath towels. Both rooms and suites feel spacious and accommodate bathrooms with a bathtub and separate walk-in shower, so your simple nightly rituals feel like extravagant downtime.

      Hotel Café Royal
      The unwind
      One of the most tranquil spas you will ever visit – the underground Askasha spa boasts a large pool, spacious sauna and relaxation rooms where you can practise Yoga and Pilates, a welcome respite from the business of the city centre. Book in for a well-earned Aromatherapy Associates massage and be transformed back to the freshest version of yourself.

      Hotel Café Royal
      The Dining
      With a menu inspired by the iconic and storied Parisian neighbourhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, home to Hotel Café Royal’s sister hotel Lutetia Paris, Brasserie Saint Germain delivers on taste and service alike. The menu created by Eliano Crespi and his culinary team offers up the best of seasonal produce in a cosy semi-formal setting, the Sole Meunière and Salade Juliette are not to be missed. More

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      Hotel Café Royal in London delivers style, sophistication, and unparalleled service

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      News

      by Amy Sessions
      10 hours ago

      The Stay
      Designed with an incredible ability to seamlessly blend tradition with the modern technology comforts you’d expect from a hotel at this level, you will fully relax and enjoy your stay from a breakfast that caters to every taste to a turndown service that warms the bath towels. Both rooms and suites feel spacious and accommodate bathrooms with a bathtub and separate walk-in shower, so your simple nightly rituals feel like extravagant downtime.

      Hotel Café Royal
      The unwind
      One of the most tranquil spas you will ever visit – the underground Askasha spa boasts a large pool, spacious sauna and relaxation rooms where you can practise Yoga and Pilates, a welcome respite from the business of the city centre. Book in for a well-earned Aromatherapy Associates massage and be transformed back to the freshest version of yourself.

      Hotel Café Royal
      The Dining
      With a menu inspired by the iconic and storied Parisian neighbourhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, home to Hotel Café Royal’s sister hotel Lutetia Paris, Brasserie Saint Germain delivers on taste and service alike. The menu created by Eliano Crespi and his culinary team offers up the best of seasonal produce in a cosy semi-formal setting, the Sole Meunière and Salade Juliette are not to be missed. More

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      Ozen Bolifushi in Maldives is the perfect secluded slice of paradise for slow living

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      Lifestyle

      by Ruman Baig
      2 hours ago

      While luxurious resorts in The Maldives are hardly scarce – here you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything other than smart island retreats – Ozen Bolifushi is simply put, a cut above, taking barefoot luxury to an entirely new level.
      The Arrival
      Step off the plane and onto the resort’s private catamaran, a smart charter outfitted with cream sofas, an espresso bar and panoramic windows. The convenient 30-minute ride to Ozen Bolifushi relieves the hassle of connecting seaplanes, a true sanity-saver when travelling with children. As you near the island, the resort zooms into focus – all swaying palm trees and powdery sunbleached sands surrounded by the brightest blue water. You’ll be met with traditional Maldivian drumming, a fresh coconut water and a mist of Avène’s thermal spring water, before heading straight to your villa in one of the island’s elegant Rolls Royce buggies along with your personal butler.
      The Vibe
      The island is smaller than some, lending an intimate feel where faces become familiar after just a day. You’ll find there is a sleepy sense of stillness and privacy to Ozen, withonly the sweeping waves, paradise-perfect beaches and occasional guest on a bike within eyesight. Days can be spent lounging, swimming, snorkelling and scuba-diving, or browse the island’s boutiques, charter a yacht, feed the stingrays at sunset and simply wander the maze of palm tree-lined pathways dotted with crochet hammocks and swings. And while adults settle poolside, children of all ages will be kept entertained with daily activities, such as treasure hunts, pizza making, water polo and ice hockey on the resort’s open-air ice rink, a first in The Maldives. With Ozen’s Reserve Plan, guests will not be required to sign throughout their stay, allowing for complete self-indulgence on the free-flowing premium bottles and culinary experiences.

      The Stay
      No stone has been left unturned when it comes to furnishing the villas, where spacious suites offer floor-to-ceiling windows with unobstructed ocean views, walk-in wardrobes, private pools, outdoor dining verandas, spa-inspired bathrooms and a fully-stocked private bar. Perched above the sea, the water villas stand out and are perhaps what springs tomind when envisioning the Maldives. Accessed by bike or buggy along a boardwalk, these villas offer a sprawling outdoor deck with several seating areas and sunken sofas, from which you can spot shoals of fluorescent fish swirl by. A number of the villas also feature a water slide into the sea which makes for a playful way to wake up on your morning swim. For the ultimate in seclusion and splendour, the Royal Reserve is a sprawling threebedroom beachfront home (along with separate spaces for staff) complete with an open-air jacuzzi, a gym, pool, an overwater bar, plus a dedicated Teppanyaki restaurant as well as a kitchen and grape cellar.
      Wellness
      When not racking up steps strolling the island, guests can take to the ocean-facing treadmills at the gym or book in for a group class and sunrise flow on the yoga pavilion. Further unwind at Ozen’s spa, an idyllic garden sanctuary where expert facials and knot-banishing massages in the overwater treatment suites will soothe you into a mediative state. Guests can also book a consultation with the island’s resident Ayurveda doctor, who after checking your pulse will recommend holistic healing remedies to work into your daily regime.

      Dining
      Food at Ozen draws on a “garden-to-table” concept where chefs plate dishes using herbs, seasonal vegetables, microgreens and tropical fruits freshly picked from island soil. Breezy lunches will be spent on the beach at Vista Del Mar where the varied buffet includes a spread of salads, grilled meats, seafood, sushi and homemade pastas to rival that in Rome. Come evening, feast on mezze and tagines at Sangu or sample Saffron’s mouth-watering curries through their concept dining experience. While fine dining restaurant ORIGINE, delivers an elegant culinary journey along with grape tasting sessions held by the resort’s enthusiastic sommelier – an experience well worth booking ahead for.
      theozencollection.com
      March’s – The Style Issue – Download Now 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      Founder Nicolas Vandenabeele, on how Terra Solis has become the ultimate desert getaway

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      Lifestyle

      by Joelle Albeaino
      2 hours ago

      Talk us through the concept behind Terra Solis.
      Terra Solis is inspired by the magic of Tomorrowland and the star constellations we see in the night sky. Our philosophy here is to move slowly, radiate warmth and shine bright. The concept I envisioned was to create a relaxing environment with a soothing atmosphere. I wanted our guests to arrive and feel the exhilarating energy. The vibrant pool scene and eclectic music mix were perfectly crafted to re-energise and uplift. The location in the Arabian desert was specifically chosen for an ideal blend of sunshine and serenity. Even as the sun goes down at Terra Solis, the venue stays alive and thrives. We have created an electrifying evening where our guests can shine and participate in the madness of exclusive Tomorrowland-fuelled parties, unique dining experiences and romance.
      How is Terra Solis different from other glamping spots in the UAE?
      Terra Solis is an exclusive glamping destination. Not only do we offer a variety of luxurious lodging options, but we are also home to one of the biggest pools in the UAE. Additionally, we offer a range of wellness activities, including yoga classes and a unique, jungle-inspired gym called Zeus. Our music acts and events help us to be incomparable. Our guests can have an ultimate glamping experience with an evening of exclusive parties reminiscent of Tomorrowland’s festivals and energy.
      What are the hero dishes at the restaurants Mesa and Sala?
      The cuisine at Mesa is a Mediterranean menu, infused with flavours from all over the world. The dishes are designed to be shared and feature ingredients that have been sourced from local producers. At the moment, Mesa is scheduled to have a grand opening by the end of April 2023, however, Mesa’s outdoor terrace is currently operational and serves guests daily. Also, opening in April is Sala, which is our hidden sanctuary overlooking Terra Solis with an exquisite menu curated by our craftsmen. Paired with enticing beverages and bites, guests can indulge in an intimate setting whilst watching the sunset over Terra Solis.Sala is filled with cosy little corners that are lit by the moonlight and are the perfect escape with your friends or loved ones.

      Terra Solis
      Describe the overall experience at Terra Solis.
      An exhilarating desert destination by Tomorrowland, welcoming guests from around the world to a refreshing, energising pool and a premium glamping hotspot in the Arabian Desert. Terra Solis is like no other, an experience catered to all your needs and comfort with lodging at our Polaris Tent, Perseid Lodge or Orion Cabin. We invite guests to unwind, relax and simply celebrate life.
      What are the different music genres and what sets the concept of Terra Solis apart?
      We play a mix of commercial house and techno. Guests can experience Tomorrowland with One World Radio beats at Terra Solis and meet their favourite Tomorrowland artists – we have plenty of exciting artists lined up this year. Combining four concepts fuelled by the heart and soul of Tomorrowland. A unique glamping and entertainment resort, basking in the Arabian sun surrounded by the beautiful desert. An environment inspired by Bali, Tulum and Ibiza makes it an extraordinary holiday getaway. The design takes inspiration from nature – tell us more. We tried not to disturb the original environment too much and simply compliment the dunes and terrain, using a lot of natural elements from the desert. For example, the façade of our main restaurant is created out of stones we sourced from the surrounding desert. You’ll also see plenty of local trees and wooden elements. We reallywanted to create a natural environment, paying homage to the scenery and UAE’s famous dunes; this can be seen throughout the property, as well as in the interior and exterior designs of the rooms.
      How have you managed to bring an international concept like Tomorrowland to the region?
      When I first came up with the idea of creating a destination like this and got a green light from my business partners to explore, I contacted Tomorrowland for the glamping aspect of it as they have been known to host 40,000 people at the festival every year in ‘Dreamville’ – they clearly had the expertise and their vision fully aligned with ours. After many planning sessions and really taking the time to build a base for the concept, we were on our way. We’ve had a longstanding relationship with Tomorrowland, having hosted a few satellite events in the UAE before, and it was clear to me that they would be the idealpartner for this concept.

      Terra Solis
      This is The Style Issue – can you expand on the style concept of the lodges?
      The design was based on blending the surrounding desert and the accommodation’s building structure in a sleek way, evoking feelings of escapism as well as comfort. Inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s concept of merging the two factors, we came up with the idea of curved walls and full glass front shops. The interiors were still to be linked to the main concept, hence the curving headboard with the Terra Solis Star Logo, which emphasises the brand identity awareness in the units themselves. Guests will also find leaves in the style of Mashrabiya in many aspects of the property, from the rooms to certain outdoor décor, fusing Arabesque design with the contemporary. In the rooms, we strategically placed all washroom and shower areas toward the back of the sleeping sections, to keep the flow of guests’ experiences seamless. You’ll find that rooms all have subtle rustic yet eclectic finishes and splashes of earth tones that really make the space warm and inviting. More

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      Ibiza’s first premium all-inclusive adults-only hotel officially opens its doors

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      1 minute ago

      IN PARTNERSHIP: An exclusive new resort has arrived on the shores of Ibiza and it’s a first for the island – the first and only premium all-inclusive adults-only hotel.
      The TRS Ibiza Hotel, part of the Palladium Hotel Group portfolio, opened its doors last month and is set to offer a new dimension in Ibiza’s luxury tourism sector.
      The launch of the new hotel marks a new chapter in an elevated level of service for the hotel group with its new Signature Level programme. As a part of the uber-luxe offering, guests can avail of a selection of additional benefits, which go beyond the hotel’s own space and facilities, offering, among others, access to restaurants and well-known venues on the island.

      It doesn’t end there. The group has also introduced an exclusive personal butler service for guests, taking the grandeur of the resort to a whole new level. Butler will be on-hand to cater to the individual wish list of each individual, which can easily be curated prior to arrival, creating a truly personalised stay. We’re talking specific pillow types, a selection of your favourite drink, favourite coffee capsules and more.
      The culinary offering
      While a stay at the TRS Ibiza Hotel is set to be nothing short of spectacular, it’s the resort’s culinary offering which really steals the show. With three à la carte restaurants and five bars, guests are spoilt for choice.
      Gaucho has Ibiza-inspired interior and exterior spaces where the signature concept is based on that of a traditional steak house. Charcoal entrecote, turbot with a light jus, boletus and calçot, or sea bass ceviche with tiger milk and butter are some of its hero dishes.

      For a Mediterranean experience, Helios brings indulgent luxury to a more informal level, through fresh and contemporary dishes. Its subtle Asian influences are found across its offerings which include fried cod with chipotle and apple mayonnaise, or steak tartare.
      An authentic gourmet experience can be availed at Capricho, where guests will find a selection of smoked and marinated dishes, as well as homemade pickles, accompanied by a selection of pintxos, meat and fish.
      As for the five bars, there’s Gaia Pool Bar, Aurum Lobby Bar or ÍO, where guests can enjoy the finest selection of cocktails and premium drinks poolside.
      A highlight is the Gravity sky lounge which faces the bay of San Antonio. This space offers a signature cocktail menu, infinity pool and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and there will be live music and jazz events throughout the season.
      The wellness

      While simply staying at the TRS Hotel Ibiza will undoubtedly relax and recharge you, take it to the next step and indulge in the property’s wellness facilities. Its main wellness hub is Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness which includes facilities such as waterfalls, a dry sauna, steam baths and sensation-showers.
      The hotel also has a modern gym with state-of-the-art facilities, as well as an extensive menu of massages and beauty treatments too.
      For more information visit palladiumhotelgroup.com. 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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