Hot Rooms
Enjoy a bit of parklife in Jeddah and avoid the tourists in Beirut
[ JEDDAH ]
Walk in the park
THERE ARE GOOD REASONS WHY JEDDAH’S MOVERS AND SHAKERS have moved en masse to the cigar lounges and chaises longues of the recently opened Park Hyatt. The hotel boasts a prime location at the heart of Al-Hamra, a stone’s throw from the central business district, close to both the charming old city and Jeddah’s groundbreaking open-air art gallery, so it’s a hit with international business travellers.
From its landscaped gardens and pool you can soak up a splendid view of the Red Sea and the tallest water fountain in the world at 260 metres. The interiors are deeply alluring – glass fixtures and tall marble pillars blend effortlessly with the Moorish architecture.
The 142 rooms boast flatscreen TVs, spacious balconies and bathrooms with rain showers. Park-view suites start from 1,450 riyals (£260) and sea-view suites from 1,800 riyals (£325).
When you’re done with work, go book an appointment at either the Seba (male) or Evania (female) spas, which are both renowned for their hydrotherapy suites. Matthew Lee Park Hyatt Marina, Southern Corniche, Al-Hamra, +966 2 263 9666, www.jeddah.park.hyatt.com
[ BEIRUT ]
Home comforts
WHILE VISITORS MIGHT PASS OVER BEIRUT’S VERDUN DISTRICT, locals flock to this upmarket shopping and business neighbourhood.
This outpost of the Four Points chain (part of the Starwood group) aims to provide regular travellers with all the familiar comforts: Wi-Fi, multilingual staff, a heated rooftop pool, and a club-style multi-function meeting room.
There’s also a bar, a bistro and a seasonal rooftop restaurant. The service is good and rooms start from just £118. Come for business and you may well stay for pleasure. Alex Rayner Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun, Boulevard Saeb Salam, +961 1 803804; www.starwoodhotels.com
