The National

Volcanoes Safaris launches Mount Gahinga Lodge in Uganda

A luxury lodge in the Virunga Mountains in Uganda has been upgraded and reopened, increasing the range of luxury options in the area. The closest international airport, Entebbe, is a five-hour direct flight from the UAE.

The Mount Gahinga Lodge has relaunched as the Volcanoes culture and hiking lodge. In conjunction with Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust, the lodge will offer new tours to visit the Batwa community, which was featured in last week’s travel section and is considered to be the oldest surviving people of central Africa.

Adventure activities include volcano hiking, golden monkey and mountain gorilla tracking and bird and wildlife watching.

Modelled on traditional African huts, the property’s nine bandas have been completely refurbished with fireplaces, private terraces and luxury modern bathrooms.

Locally sourced slate and volcanic rock were used in the construction, as well as locally grown and made bamboo and eucalyptus furniture.

Rooms cost from US$180 (Dh660) per person per night based on two sharing, in low season. The rate includes all meals and drinks, laundry, activities around the lodge and one complimentary massage (www.volcanoessafaris.com/lodges/mount-gahinga-lodge).

Learn to laugh on holiday in Greece

Struggling for what to do on holiday this summer? The tour operator Skyros is offering comedy courses on the Greek island of Skyros from June to September this year.

Professional comedians, including Arthur Smith, Logan Murray, Karen Hayley and Andy Ford, will offer guidance in the tricks of the comedy trade. Through a variety of practical exercises, guests will create a comedy persona, gain a greater awareness of different comic styles and write and perform original material.

"The comedy courses are a fantastic way to think outside of the box, hone communication skills and increase your self-confidence. You can learn how to use comedy to be more creative, think laterally, try a new skill, or generally just to laugh until your belly hurts," said a spokesperson for the company. Prices start from Dh3,800 for a week-long holiday, including courses and accommodation but excluding flights (www.skyros.com).

Malaysian resort revamped

The 99-room Tanjong Jara Resort near Kuala Terengganu on Malaysia’s east coast has reopened after a two-month refurbishment.

The area is known for diving and unspoilt beaches. Until March 31, there is a special reopening offer of Dh772 per room per night, including taxes and all meals with a minimum two-night stay (www.tanjongjararesort.com).

rbehan@thenational.ae

Plus, from the east coast of Malaysia to comedy breaks in Greece, there's a travel deal for everyone this week.