Elite Traveler March-April 2015

78 elite traveler MAR/APR 2015 ISSUE 2

Amid the sands of tranquil Wadi Khadeja, Banyan Tree Al Wadi is a super-luxe Bedouin fantasy complete with an Asian-inspired hydrotherapy spa, nature reserve with gazelles, camels and oryx and private beach access at Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach. Standout service Private dining in the Arabian-style Safran watchtower; a dedicated romance concierge can arrange dining under the stars in the middle of the desert or couples’ spa therapies. Special amenities Personal plunge pools with cabanas; poolside barbecues, pan-Arabian cuisine at Al Waha and a dedicated Thai restaurant. Classes in desert fauna and flora, falconry, cycling and archery come as standard. Number of rooms Of the 101 villas, 31 have a Bedouin-inspired tented roof, a sandy palette decor and a sense of place imbued with intricate lattice woodwork, carvings and embroidered fabrics. Room to Book Set apart in the dunes, the 830 sq ft Al Sahari Tented Pool Villa has flowing canopied ceilings and a large pool overlooking the desert sands. Who’s slept there Legions of Emirati royals and Bollywood luminaries. Beyond that, the resort’s not talking. Contact Georges Elhachem, director of sales and marketing, +971 7 206 7777; Georges.Elhachem@banyantree.com; Banyantree.com. Price $525 per night For an Al Rimal King Villa on a bed and breakfast basis. The Banyan Tree Al Wadi UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 5

Tip: Ditch the peace-shattering car transfer and ask to arrive by camel, just like the Arabian merchants of yore.