Amid these strangest of months, recently, there have been many regular fixtures in life that we’ve had to put on hold. One of which that has left us pining is the summer holiday ritual.
As Covid-19 still poses a threat throughout the world any travel undertaken now still needs to be done with caution of course, but if it’s finally back on the agenda for you, here are eight recommendations for an amazing ‘safecation’ that have us envious already.
The Alpine Escape
What could be more appealing right now than fresh alpine air? The Alps presents the perfect destination for a social distancing summer holiday where you have oodles of space and freedom to reconnect with nature, enjoy long days of outdoor adventures and fresh food all at a safe distance from others. Then it’s a case of retiring back to your exclusive luxury summer chalet or resort to revive and re-energize. You could always try experiencing the Swiss Alps a little differently at the wonderful Chedi Andermatt, a stunning 5-star hotel that offers a luxury mountain escape with a strong Asian influence, which shines through in the hotel’s extraordinary style, outstanding hospitality, and incredible spa and wellness offering. Pure bliss.
Visit the thechediandermatt.com for rates and booking info.
Solitary Safari
Noka Camp by Lepogo Lodges is one of Africa’s few dedicated not-for-profit high-end safari lodges. Located more than 300km from Johannesburg, made up of just five private villas, its remote 50,000-hectare, malaria-free, Lapalala Wilderness Reserve is ideal for a socially distanced adventure. The camp pledges that 100% of any financial gains generated are reinvested back into the reserve for the benefit of wildlife, conservation, and the local community. It is also notably the first luxury camp in Africa to offset the carbon footprint of every visiting guest, from the time they leave their home to the moment they return – another great reason to go. The camp is now available for exclusive hire with rates starting from AED 3,520, per person, per night on an all-inclusive basis.
Visit lepogolodges.com for more info.
The Maldivian ‘Beach Bubble’
The Maldives has reopened its doors for international tourists. To ensure the ongoing safety of guests, resorts are coming up with creative solutions to offer innovative experiences. Step forward the island resort of Finolhu. Set on the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll they are offering the quirky option to stay in a ‘Beach Bubble’ concept suite. And it does exactly what it says on the tin. These transparent ultra-luxury domes combine contemporary luxury living with a connection to the island’s stunning beach and natural elements. Watch the sunset go down then enjoy a spot of stargazing as you drift off after a long day doing little else but relaxing.
Visit finolhu.com for more info.
Mauritian Majesty
Incredibly, Mauritius has remained Covid-19-free and it is planning to re-open for tourism again at the end of this month. Why not book a stay at one of their luxury private island destinations? Villa L’ilot is a luxury villa offering four bedrooms and a large terrace that is situated on a private island offering a hidden in paradise in the North East Coast of Mauritius Island. Away from the main land, nestled in the middle of a vast turquoise lagoon with a 360 view of the ocean. L’Ilot is surrounded by a private beach with volcanic rocks protecting your very own luxury villa in Mauritius. This amazing private island and modern luxury villa are all yours for a week’s stay or an entire month.
Visit privateislandsonline.com for more info.
French Freedom
If there’s a larger group gathering on the cards, it may not have occurred to you, but you could hire out an entire 13th-century village in France which can accommodate around 50-80 guests. Tucked away in the charming region of Gascony, the village is comprised of 14 private houses, a swimming pool and tennis court, and beautiful parks and gardens. The carefully curated decor of the properties and surrounding area takes you back to the original era of the village for an extra special sense of escapism. Rates start around AED 285,000 per week.
Visit oliverstravels.com for more info.
Welsh Coastal Retreat
The picturesque coastal peninsula of Gower in South Wales has been named the UK’s top socially distanced holiday location in a new report. With only 149,089 visitors per year to Gower, the remote location offers plenty of space for staycationers looking for a crowd-free option. In fact, a study found that the Rhosili and South Gower Coast could accommodate a whopping 2,230,410 visitors while still maintaining a one-meter distance. Home to golden sand beaches, wild moors and limestone cliffs, it’s not hard to see why this Welsh beauty spot was crowned the best spot for a safe getaway.
Visit visitswanseabay.com for more info.
Egyptian Adventure on the Red Sea
Statistics are telling us that travelers coming out of the UAE at the moment are most keen to travel to Egypt. We’d advise taking a coastal adventure to the stunning banks of the beautiful Red Sea, and only a 30-minute drive from Hurghada International Airport, to the luxury five-star resort of Baron Palace. Situated in the newly developed Sal Hasheesh area of Hurghada, the hotel is surrounded by miles of unspoiled desert and mountainous scenery, as well as wonderful sea views and a 600-meter stretch of private sandy beach.
Visit baronhotels.com for more info.
Greek Getaway
Greece has been classified as a low-risk destination as it has not been struck particularly badly by the pandemic so is a natural choice for many tentative travelers. And it still knows how to offer luxury. With so many islands, secluded beaches, clear waters, sunset terraces, and amazing food from locally-sourced ingredients, it’s a perfect place to safely escape to this summer. One luxury option to ensure you steer clear of the crowds would be a private hotel experience by The Greek Villas. They have 57 remote residences across the Greek islands to choose from ranging from 11-bedroom properties with direct beach access to three-bedroom hilltop wellness retreats. Take their stunning new build Villa Maldini on the island of Paros that accommodates 16 people, has a hammam, jacuzzi, gym, infinity pool, and dining areas, not to mention the most captivating of sea views. The company is also kindly offering a full refund policy up to 21 days prior to check-in for all reservations made for 2020 given the uncertain circumstances around travel at the moment, but we’d hope it won’t come to that and you enjoy the getaway you’ve been yearning for.
Visit thegreekvillas.com for more info.
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