1 Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai
Nestled between the calm turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf and the majestic Dubai skyline, Atlantis, The Palm is the crown of the world-famous Palm Island in Dubai. It offers signature suites that look out into a huge aquarium with tens of thousands of marine animals, two-bedroom suites with private jacuzzis, menus crafted by renowned chefs like Gordon Ramsay and Nobu, and Atlantis Aquaventure, a haven for thrill-seekrs. Children will love spending time in Atlantis Kids Club, where they can play, create, and explore fun activities. This year, on the occasion of New Year’s Eve, the resort is hosting a magnificent party featuring performances from special guests like singer Kylie Minogue. Doubles from ₹60,621; atlantis.com
2 Alila Jabal Akhdar, Oman
Sitting 2,000 metres above sea level and surrounded by the lush Al Hajar Mountains, Alila Jabal Akhdar has an exposed stone exterior inspired by ancient forts and built with local stones using traditional Omani construction techniques. The contemporary villas and suites here have magnificent mountain views. During your stay, explore Jabal Akhdar, the fruit bowl of Oman, famed for its walnuts and pomegranates. Take a walk through the rose terraces where Oman’s famous damask roses bloom from March to May, and are harvested to make rose water, a staple in Omani households. There are a lot of activities at the resort to keep you engaged. Pick up the butterfly trail markers outside the lobby to enjoy a three-kilometre walk without leaving the resort. Or enjoy a private dinner in the arbour beside the shimmering waters of the infinity pool or on the stargazing deck. Away from the rush of city life, Alila Jabal Akhdar is the perfect springboard for a dive into the region’s culture, it is surrounded by old, uninhabited villages, rugged mountains, and caves and canyons. Visit the nearby UNESCO-protected Bahla Fort, along with;
