Summer Travel Escapes: Where to Travel This Season

As summer reaches its peak, GCC travellers are looking for escapes that go beyond a simple change of scenery, from restorative city breaks and sun-soaked mediterranean stays to ultra-private island retreats designed for longer, more meaningful holidays.

This season, a new wave of travel experiences is placing greater emphasis on wellbeing, space and considered moments. From science-led wellness at Koenigshof, a luxury Collection Hotel, Munich, a Roman escape at Corinthia Rome to extended resort stays at City of Dreams Mediterranean, and ultra-private island living at .Here Maldives in the Baa Atoll, these curated destinations offer a refined way to reset, reconnect and discover something new.

Each stay offers a different pace for the summer, whether that means a rejuvenating European city escape, a longer Mediterranean retreat or a secluded beach experience designed around privacy and personalised luxury.

Koenigshof, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Munich

For travellers seeking a more intentional city escape this summer, Koenigshof, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Munich offers a stay centred on longevity and holistic wellbeing. At the heart of the experience is MitoSphere, the hotel’s pioneering wellness hub, where guests can experience MITOSPHERE FLOW – Restore Balance, a curated programme combining advanced therapies such as IHHT (oxygen therapy) with restorative treatments and daily rituals. Set overlooking Stachus Square, the hotel pairs this science-led approach with refined design, elevated dining and panoramic views stretching toward the Bavarian Alps, creating a stay that balances urban exploration with meaningful restoration.

FACT BOX:

What: MitoSphere Wellness Escape

Where: Koenigshof, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Munich

Includes:

Website: LINK (Promo Code: SPA)

City of Dreams Mediterranean, Cyprus

For a longer summer escape, City of Dreams Mediterranean invites GCC travellers to enjoy a sun-soaked retreat in the vibrant coastal city of Limassol. Set within a sprawling integrated resort, the property blends luxury, leisure and entertainment, from elegant dining and serene wellness facilities to family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. Beyond the resort, guests can explore Cyprus’ rich cultural landscape, from ancient ruins like Kourion to the scenic Troodos Mountains, making it an ideal escape for both relaxation and discovery.

FACT BOX:

What: Summer at City of Dreams Mediterranean

Where: City of Dreams Mediterranean, Limassol, Cyprus

Price: Starts at €560 / night

Website: https://www.cityofdreamsmed.com.cy/en

.Here Baa Atoll, Maldives

Set within the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll, .Here Maldives, named to the Condé Nast Traveller Hot List 2026, offers an ultra-exclusive summer escape defined by privacy and personalised luxury. With just nine residences across two private islands, the resort features rare dual-aspect villas that seamlessly blend overwater and beachfront living. Guests can enjoy bespoke dining, curated experiences and untouched natural surroundings, whether gathering with family or opting for a full island buyout, creating a deeply personal and unforgettable island retreat.

FACT BOX:

What: Summer at .Here

Stay Requirements: Minimum three-night stay (seven nights during the festive period)

Rates (per night, inclusive of service charges and taxes):

Website: www.here-maldives.com

Corinthia Rome

For those planning a summer city break, Corinthia Rome offers a refined base from which to experience the Eternal City. The hotel occupies a restored historic palazzo on Piazza del Parlamento, within walking distance of the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps and Campo Marzio. With just 60 rooms and suites, a spa set within the building’s former bank vaults and dining concepts by Carlo Cracco, the property brings together Roman heritage and contemporary luxury in one of the city’s most desirable locations. Available throughout the summer, the La Dolce Vita offer adds the perfect layer to the stay, including daily breakfast, private airport transfers, cocktails for two at Ocra Bar and a EUR 100 hotel credit to enjoy dining and spa experiences.

Designed around the simple pleasures of Roman life, it’s an invitation to slow down, settle into the rhythm of the city and make the most of a summer escape in Rome.

FACT BOX:

What: Where La Dolce Vita begins

Stay Requirements: No minimum stay required (subject to availability), rates from EUR 1602 per night

Website https://www.corinthia.com/en-gb/rome/offers/dolce-vita/

This summer, turn travel plans into something more memorable. Whether it’s a quick European city break, a sun-soaked Mediterranean escape or a private island experience, these getaways are designed to make every moment count. Expect standout dining, indulgent wellness, immersive experiences and just the right amount of adventure, all wrapped into one seamless seasonal escape.

​​Barceló Coconut Island Phuket

Guests can escape to a world of tropical luxury with Barceló Coconut Island Phuket’s Island Paradise Retreat, a limited-time offer crafted for travellers seeking an unforgettable island getaway. Nestled on a private island just off Phuket’s east coast, the resort is a hidden paradise where powder-soft beaches, swaying palm trees, and breathtaking views of Phang Nga Bay create the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure. Guests staying for two consecutive nights or more can enjoy a complimentary upgrade to the next room category, while those staying three consecutive nights or more will also receive an exclusive experience of either Afternoon Tea at NAGA Lounge for suite bookings or a Floating Breakfast for pool villa stays. Blending upgraded accommodation, exclusive perks, and the serenity of a private island setting, this enticing summer offer promises a truly memorable escape in one of Thailand’s most spectacular destinations. Guests can book with the promotional code “Island Paradise Retreat” when making their reservation via the Barceló website or directly by email.

FACT BOX:

What: Island Paradise Retreat

Where: Barceló Business Bay Dubai

Booking Period: From today until 30 September 2026

Stay Period: From today until 31 October 2026

Offer:

For more information, visit https://www.barcelo.com/en-gb/barcelo-coconut-island/