Known for its year-round mild climate, Tenerife is easily one of the champions of short-haul sunshine. Whilst chilling out on the beach is always a good idea here, this volcanic island is spectacularly diverse, home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Atlantic waters filled with marine life, and the mighty Teide National Park. No matter how you choose to spend your time - whether whale watching, stargazing or sampling delicious local delicacies - return each day to
The Ritz-Carlton Abama.
Set in a 400-acre oceanfront estate, this landmark luxury hotel has long been adored for its spacious subtropical setting, superlative service and glorious gastronomy. Among the eight exceptional eateries here is the Basque-style M.B, the only restaurant in the entire Canary Islands to boast two Michelin stars, and Kabuki, Abama's Japanese fusion restaurant that has also been honoured with a Michelin star. Beyond the dining, world-class facilities include an 18-hole championship golf course, simply spectacular Ritz-Carlton Spa, and The Zone, a family-friendly hub with music, sport and art activities aplenty.
Few locations are as entwined with mythology, history, nature and art as Cyprus, whilst its southerly location promises a mild Mediterranean winter with plenty of sunshine. Its countless historical sites can be explored in comfort during the winter's pleasant temperatures (with less crowds too!) whilst you can also enjoy walking in the pine-clad Troodos Mountains, sampling local wine, relaxing on the beaches and sailing around secluded bays. That's if you can tear yourselves away from the outstanding amenities at
Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, one of the country's most impressive luxury hotels, located in the southern coastal city of Limassol.
Fabulous for families, Parklane is home to Park Kidz, a colossal (3,000-square-metre!) club for little ones, home to a two-tier castle full of activities - from pottery classes to theatre productions - as well as a water-filled pirate ship. If you're travelling without children, though, fear not, as there are dedicated adults-only spaces, pools and accommodation options just for grown-ups.
Ever-innovative Dubai has something for every discerning traveller. From record-breaking waterparks and astounding amusements for fun-loving families, to Michelin-starred dining and scenic settings for a romantic getaway, this cosmopolitan city indulges every sense amongst its dusty deserts, glittering souks and soaring skyscrapers. Even better? Winter (November to March) is the very best time to visit, when there's rarely a cloud in the sky and temperatures remain in the high 20s.
Set in front of a sweeping private beach on the bustling JBR Walk,
The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai is the perfect private playground. Surrounded by lush gardens, the Mediterranean-style hotel offers a huge choice of accommodation options, though we recommend choosing a room or suite with Club Lounge access to enjoy complimentary daily drinks and regular food presentations. There's plenty for little ones to keep busy with the Ritz Kids programme, whilst the adults-only pool overlooks the super-chic La Baie - perfect for DJ tunes and a cocktail (or two).
Just an hour or so from Dubai by road, Abu Dhabi enjoys the same glorious winter climate as its neighbouring emirate. Perhaps edging Dubai slightly in terms of its cultural offering, it's home to plenty of graciously domed architecture, humbling mosques and fascinating galleries to marvel at. While its name means 'Land of the Gazelle', after the tale of the young antelope that led a wandering tribe to fresh water, Abu Dhabi isn't necessarily as traditional in character as you might suspect; it can still rev up the excitement at Yas Marina Circuit (home to the Formula 1 Grand Prix and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi) whilst unique Saadiyat Island promises fun, food and artistic delights in equal measure.
Cool and contemporary, whilst maintaining the brand's sky-high level of luxury,
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort is set on a beautiful sandy beach, adjacent to the renowned Saadiyat Beach Golf Course and close to the Louvre Abu Dhabi. A real all-rounder, the resort boasts a variety of restaurants (serving cuisine from around the world), the super-cool Buddha Beach Bar, impressive Iridium Spa, and the fun-filled Sandcastle Club for little ones. Meanwhile,
The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal overlooks (you guessed it) the Grand Canal, an area of Abu Dhabi which gives a glimpse into authentic Arabia thanks to its souqs, boat trips and the mighty Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque - which is walkable from the hotel! This Mediterranean-inspired resort promises a duo of private beaches, huge alfresco swimming pool, plenty of eateries and an exceptional ESPA Spa.