Enjoy cooler climes in southern Oman
The local, low-cost carrier, Flydubai, has announced that it will commence flights to Salalah, Oman's second city, on May 21. Two hours away, Salalah is a particularly popular destination from mid-June to mid-September when its position on the Indian Ocean brings monsoon rains, cooler temperatures and fecundity to the surrounding landscape. The annual Salalah Tourism Festival, which will take place in July this year, sees an influx of more than 1.8 million visitors. Flights will operate three times a week. A return ticket costs from Dh1,000 including taxes and one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 7kg. Checked baggage starts at Dh50 for 20kg. Book at www.flydubai.com.
Canal views in Aman's new Venetian resort
Aman is set to open a resort in a beautifully restored Venetian palazzo near San Polo in time for the city's art biennale on June 1. With 24 suites in two adjoining buildings and a private garden terrace overlooking the Grand Canal, the hotel also features a spa and restaurants serving Italian and Asian food. Nearby tourist attractions include the Rialto Bridge. Suites at the Aman Canal Grande Venice cost from €1,105 (Dh5,279) per night, including taxes. For more information and reservations, visit www.amanresorts.com.
Test your limits at a Spanish boot camp
Boot camp afficionados will be pleased to learn that there is another excuse to sign up for a Wildfitness holiday, where suffering and self-abnegation awaits. Book a one- or two-week keep fit course in Andalucia by March 31 and save up to £450 (Dh2,461) per person. Courses run from June 8, based at a beautiful 17th-century farmhouse surrounded by gorgeous countryside near Arcos de la Frontera. Exercise focuses on running, boxing, trekking and circuits, as well as healthy eating. A one-week course in a shared room costs from £1,770 (Dh 9,680) full board, including early bird discount, taxes and transfers. For more information visit www.wildfitness.com.
Learn to dive off Abu Dhabi's coastline
Desert Islands Watersport Centre on Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi's local wildlife sanctuary, is now offering dive training. Facilities include a three-metre dive pool and lecture rooms for those taking Padi dive courses. More experienced divers can study for Padi Rescue or Master Diver certifications (the latter on a week-long course). Other activities will eventually include private boat charters, stand-up paddle boarding, pearl diving and deep-sea fishing. Book a two-night dive refresher package starting from Dh2,645, or a five-night, open water discovery package from Dh5,985. All packages include a supervised dive for two, accommodation in a room, suite or villa, return boat transfers to the island, breakfast and taxes (www.anantara.com).
