Holiday season is well underway, and nothing says time off more than a week (or five) spent abroad exploring a new city, wandering through all its nooks and corners, before heading back to your hotel to lounge by the pool. Whether you’re close to home or traveling to a far-flung destination, finding the right accommodation isn’t always easy. In fact, navigating online reviews, comparing prices, and making sure everything is up to par with your needs can make the hunt for the perfect place to stay an overwhelming exercise. And needless to say that after a long, rainy wait for summer, you definitely deserve a stress-free vacation.
To help you find the right spot to recharge and relax, below, 11 hotels we recommend checking into over the next few weeks of sea and sun.
Dar Souad Tunis, Tunisia
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If there’s one place that epitomizes Tunis’ reputation for being an unhurried city, it’s Dar Souad. Behind its tall doors that whisk you away from the city’s noise and crowds, you’ll be greeted by the Turki family, who decided ten-years-ago to build this sanctuary in the heart of the capital. Not far from the iconic La Marsa neighborhood, Dar Souad is perfect for a quick tea if you’re nearby, or a few nights’ stay if you’re visiting from abroad. The matriarch, a retired health academic, founded the house to spend her time caring for others outside the patient room.
Dar El Gaied Nabeul, Tunisia
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A personal favorite, Dar El Gaied is our go-to whenever we need to unplug and recharge. Located just under an hour away from Tunis, in Nabeul to be precise, this guesthouse stands out as one of the most serene retreats in the region. Just minutes from the city’s bustling souk, the property is elegantly nestled away from the Medina’s winding streets and crowded thoroughfares in a decor that blends traditional charm and modern comfort all at once. With six suites, a loft-penthouse with a private terrace and jacuzzi and a duplex unfolding around an infinity pool, for us it’s clear: the art of hosting has been perfected here, and we can’t get enough of it.
InterContinental Dubai Festival City, UAE
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A recognized institution in the realm of hospitality and five-star experiences, Intercontinental needs no real introduction as its reputation for excellence speaks for itself. Consistently setting the standard in its field, its Dubai branch has recently announced its summer staycation and suite offerings, including the Shop, Stay & Savour package which provides prospective guests with up to 25% savings. An 100 AED spa voucher can also be redeemed as part of this seasonal deal while children can enjoy all-day access to Planet Trekkers Kids Club where they’ll take part in a variety of activities from rock climbing to cooking classes all within a safe and supervised environment.
And if that hasn’t already piqued your interest, guests can also take advantage of the Suite Deal offer, which includes a four-night stay for the price of three, plus free accommodation and dining for kids.
Hyatt Regency Dubai, UAE
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Whether it’s for lunch or an extended stay, Hyatt Regency might be the place to be this summer to indulge in both luxury and comfort. Nestled in Dubai’s Deira district—an old, historical neighborhood of the city—the hotel gives onto the corniche and is just a few minutes away from the airport. Conveniently located and well-connected, Hyatt Regency Dubai stands out for its exceptional food options which includes celebrated Japanese restaurant Miyako.
Established in 1987, the oldest Japanese eatery of its kind in the UAE continues to thrive over three decades later thanks to its extensive selection of traditional recipes crafted with both precision and fresh ingredients. From sushi and sashimi to tempura and teppanyaki, Miyako offers a culinary experience that takes you straight to Japan, all while staying in Dubai.
Kivotos Santorini, Greece
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A spontaneous trip to Greece is never a bad idea, especially if you’re planning on staying at Kivotos in Santorini. Perched atop the highest point of the island’s hills, the luxury boutique hotel offers panoramic views of Santorini’s volcano and draws inspiration from it for its design and architecture. Adorned in crimson hues that stand in striking contrast to the island’s iconic all-white buildings, the family-owned business offers a visually stunning retreat that once captured on your phone sits perfectly on your Instagram grid.
Recently, Kivotos announced the launch of their new chef dinner series at its signature restaurant MAVRO. Here, chef Dimitris Katrivesis will work hand in hand with other renowned cooks from around the world to create six-course degustation menus. The series kicked off on May 18 with one-Michelin-star Chef Alex Dilling from London’s Hotel Café Royal. Their next event is scheduled on July 28, where they’ll invite three-Michelin-star chef Jacob Jan to bring his skills and refined palate to treat guests to an unforgettable epicurean moment.
Argos Cappadocia, Turkey
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Set against a backdrop that will leave any visitor in awe, Argos Cappadocia feels like the enchanted wonderland we dreamed of as children. With luxury rooms built into 2000-year-old caves and views giving onto a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for the hundreds of hot air balloons seen floating in the blue sky, this otherworldly haven offers a magical escape where ancient history and breathtaking beauty converge.
Always set on improving and elevating its guests’ experience, the owners of this boutique-hotel have recently opened a new dining spot, Nahita, dedicated to delivering mouth-watering local and sustainable recipes. For those with a penchant for the old drink, they’ll be pleased to learn that Argos features the largest naturally-formed wine cellar in Europe, nestled in caves dating back almost 3,000 years.
Beit Noun, Lebanon
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As much as we would’ve loved to gatekeep this one, Beit Noun truly deserves to be shared. The boutique guesthouse, nestled in the Jbeil Mountains at 1200 meters of altitude, has been welcoming guests since the 1930s. Originally conceived as a family home like many others in the region, it became a hotspot for celebrities and stars by the 1960s. Going out into the 1990s, Beit Noun was all about bucolic family lunches where families would gather around healthy meals and dance their way into the early hours of the next morning.
Today, it’s considered a premier destination for those looking to experience life the Lebanese way. Expect warm hospitality, stunning panoramic views, and a wealth of delicious food paired with signature cocktails no sane person can turn down.
Hotel Cala Di Volpe Costa Smeralda, Italy
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Designed in the 1960s by French architect Jacques Couëlle, Hotel Cala di Volpe is the definition of timeless elegance and style. Overlooking a bay of the same name, this luxury retreat is the ultimate summer destination for any fashion enthusiast as this year, Dolce & Gabbana has chosen Hotel Cala di Volpe for its creative takeover, bringing the brand’s unmistakable DNA to one of the world’s most exclusive beach clubs. For this year’s edition, the Italian luxury label will transform the entire pool area of Hotel Cala di Volpe, which boasts one of the largest saltwater pools in Europe, as guests enjoy an immersive experience where every detail reflects the brand’s distinctive flair.
The Jeddah Edition, Saudi Arabia
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Recently unveiled, The Jeddah Edition— the latest addition to the Edition Hotels collection— stands proudly along Jeddah’s Corniche, offering a new benchmark for luxury lodgings in the Gulf State’s coastal city. As one of its best options to have breakfast in bed, the towering marvel is an architectural gem that boasts breathtaking views, opulent interiors, and world-class amenities. One reason to stay there? The hotel has just introduced a new culinary concept, aiming at elevating the city’s gastronomic landscape. For that, the hotel has brought on board renowned New York chef Cedric Vongerichten to carefully craft an exclusive menu for prospective guests. His creations will be featured in the hotel’s signature restaurant and lounges, complementing the sophisticated ambiance of the entire resort.
