ABOVE:

4.

The Dead Sea is where natural beauty, history and, thanks to Kempinski, luxury, go hand in hand.

Here, at the lowest point on earth, is one of Jordan’s most private retreats featuring a selection of two-storey royal villas that look out to the shores of the world’s oldest natural spa.

There is absolutely no need to leave these havens where you can luxuriate in the infinity pool and whirlpool or simply take in the spectacular views from each of the three master bedrooms. With a private dining room connected to a fully equipped kitchen, an exclusive wellness area that includes a treatment room, steam room, sauna and shower, plus a personalised butler service, it’s isolation heaven. kempinski.com

ISHTAR ROYAL VILLAS AT KEMPINSKI HOTEL ISHTAR DEAD SEA

5.

For social distancing with style, the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, located on the shores of magical Paradise Bay, overlooking the Aegean Sea, is just the ticket. Check into the newly launched five-bedroom Magnolia Villa for a stay to remember, enjoying residentialstyle luxuries including a fully equipped kitchen, living area, outdoor terrace with spectacular views, a barbecue area and a private pool. If you do step outside this spectacular residence, there is plenty to keep you occupied while staying away from the crowds, with scuba diving, fishing and sailing ideal for water lovers, plus a private beach. There’s plenty to feed your body and mind too, from Japanese, Mediterranean, Italian and modern Turkish cuisine, to spa, wellness and fitness experiences, all currently adapted to meet stringent health and safety requirements. mandarinoriental.com

MANDARIN ORIENTAL BODROM

6.

Just a 10-minute drive from the heart of the city and its historic Medina, but set amid 20 hectares of fragrant gardens and olive groves, Mandarin Oriental Marrakech is a true urban escape. Inspired by Berber and Andalusian-Arabic design influences, all 45 villas have secluded walled gardens, swimming pools, hot tubs, extensive areas for sunbathing and shaded alfresco private dining spaces. The resort also has seven spectacular suites complete with their own rooftop plunge pool and offering panoramic vistas of the gardens and the surrounding countryside, including the awe-inspiring Atlas Mountains. Home to plenty of restaurants and a world-class spa, there is much to make guests feel like Moroccan royalty, but for the more intrepid, with the Sahara and Atlas Mountains close by, exciting day-trips await. Outdoor activities including trekking, quad biking and skiing give you the chance to really experience Morocco’s wild side. mandarinoriental.com

MANDARIN ORIENTAL MARRAKECH

8.

Just a 30-minute drive from Dubai International Airport lies Ajman’s exquisite and largely undiscovered natural island of Al Zorah, where luxury resort operator Oberoi has made its home. The lush mangroveencircled island destination, which is a protected area, is a nature-lover’s paradise, featuring pristine white sandy beaches and lagoons that nurture exceptional biodiversity.

From kayaking around the mangroves or enjoying exhilarating water sports on the Gulf waters, to

THE OBEROI BEACH RESORT, AL ZORAH ISLAND

hitting a few balls on Al Zorah’s Jack Nicklaus-designed championship golf course, there is much to see and do during your stay. For isolationfriendly downtime, the resort’s expansive private pool villas are just the ticket with their private gardens, wall-to-wall windows, large living and dining spaces and an expansive terrace that’s perfect for barbeques. Oberoi has partnered with Bureau Veritas, the world leader in testing, inspection and certification services, to validate and constantly review its safety and hygiene programme, giving you peace of mind throughout your stay. oberoihotels.com

9.

Hidden away on a man-made seahorse-shaped island, Jumeira Bay, the opulent Bulgari Resort offers the best of both worlds – it’s just minutes away from the city, but with its isolated Arabian Gulf location and distinct design edge, it transports you to a European-style retreat. In fact, if

BULGARI RESORT, JUMEIRA BAY

it wasn’t for the spectacular views of the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, you would forget you were near a mega metropolis. The resort has launched “Summer plans, reimagined”, introducing staycation experiences at its villa accommodation with private pools and Arabian Gulf or city skyline views.

Choose from B.Family with special kids’ amenities and activities; B. Private, offering exclusive dining options that respect privacy and social distancing; B.Active, including training sessions, body treatments and special dining; and B.Beautiful, a luxurious getaway with spa treatments. bulgarihotels.com