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Inspiration &
Ideas: Hiking
Destinations
Inspiration & Ideas:
Our Instaworthy Hotels
1 April 2021
Adventure ideas
GHA DISCOVERY hiking destinations
If you’re looking forward to a nature-filled getaway, hiking might just be one of the ideal activities for your next trip. Taking a hike is not only good for your physical and mental wellbeing, it’s also a great activity you can enjoy while social distancing. Whether you’re planning to travel across the country or staying close to home, here are some picturesque hiking spots across GHA DISCOVERY destinations to inspire your next eco-adventure.
Hatta, United Arab Emirates
Exploring Hatta by foot is the best way to experience Dubai’s largest national park. Surrounded by the Hajar Mountains, Hatta’s landscape features undulating peaks and troughs that are perfect for hiking. There are a number of trails that cater to all levels of ability from absolute beginners through to experienced hikers and trail runners. You can also hop onto a mountain bike to explore the meandering pathways of hills, wadis (valleys), and farmland in the area. Another great activity worth experiencing is kayaking on the lake formed by the Hatta Dam. Other water activities available to enjoy include pedalos and water bikes.
Where to stay: JA Hatta Fort Hotel, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates Dubai, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai, Oaks IBN Battuta Gate Dubai, Avani Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, Algarve, Portugal
Imagine gorgeous coves, spectacular geology, and one-of-a-kind sea views. The Seven Hanging Valleys Trails is a must-experience if you’re visiting the Algarve in Portugal. This winding and breathtaking trail will take hikers through some of the region’s most stunning natural wonders. You’ll be trekking along the coast the whole time, with the trail stretching between Praia da Marinha beach and Praia de Vale Centianes beach. The most ideal time to hike is in spring or fall (from the months of June to November). The trail has several ascending and descending passages along the route and marked with yellow and red waymarks for easy direction. Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is one of the most beautiful hikes in Portugal and should not be missed.
Where to stay: Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort, Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort, Tivoli Lagos Algarve Hotel, Tivoli Marina Portimao Algarve Hotel
Lion Rock, Hong Kong
Lion Rock has become a symbol of the tenacious spirit of the people of Hong Kong. Located on the mainland, opposite Hong Kong island, this mountain has earned its name from the rocky outcrop that resembles a crouching lion. At 495 meters high, it provides a spectacular 360-degree view of Victoria Harbour, Kowloon, parts of New Territories and parts of Hong Kong Island. The summit is a great spot to enjoy the sunset over the city. The hike typically takes 3.5 to 4 hours for the standard loop, and there is a shorter route that takes a total of 1.5 hours of hiking. A hike in Lion Rock is a great activity for any nature-lover looking to experience a more hidden side of Hong Kong.
Where to stay: Gateway, Hong Kong, Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel, Marco Polo Xiamen, Prince, Hong Kong, The Murray, Hong Kong, a Niccolo Hotel
Griffith Park, Los Angeles
With over 4,200 acres of chaparral terrain and landscaped areas, Griffith Park is one of the largest parks with urban wilderness areas in California. There are 70 miles of hiking trails in the park, and spots worth exploring include Glendale Peak, Beacon Hill, Amir’s Garden, Skyline Trail, and Bird Sanctuary. Perhaps the park’s most famous landmark is the Hollywood Sign. Erected in 1923 high atop Mt. Lee, this iconic symbol can be seen from just about anywhere in the Los Angeles area. If you want to get up close and personal with a bit of Hollywood history, there are three hiking trails that can get you to the sign: the Mt. Hollywood Trail, the Brush Canyon Trail, and the Cahuenga Peak Trail.
Where to stay: Viceroy Santa Monica
Mercer Bay Loop Walk, Auckland, New Zealand
There’s no better way to experience the beauty of New Zealand’s West Coast than through a hike in Mercer Bay Loop Walk. Sitting directly between Karekare Beach and Piha Beach, the trail is tucked away in a lush rainforest rewarding trekkers with plenty of native flora and fauna, as well as breathtaking scenic ocean views. Ideal for a summer day trip, the track takes around 50 minutes to walk at a leisurely pace. The best time to hike is either during the morning before noontime, or before nightfall for a dramatic sunset that creates a gorgeous orange glow against the cliffs and treetops.
Where to stay: Auckland Harbour Suites, Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences
28 January 2021
Dreamy escapes
Favourite romantic getaways
If you’re looking to up the romance factor on your next holiday, we have just the inspiration you need. From secluded islands and dramatic landscapes to ancient cities and timeless retreats, these world-class destinations are perfect for escaping with your special someone.
Bali, Indonesia
Far from the city, rush hours, and fast food joints, Bali is an island paradise that can truly satisfy your heart’s desire—peace, joy, adventure, excitement. For the ultimate hideaway, explore Ubud, with its serene palm trees, breathtaking rice terraces, and charming villages.
You might also want to check out Seminyak, the most happening and fun locale of the island where you can find artsy cafes, chic boutiques and gorgeous villas. If you want to relax out in the sun, surf the best waves you’ve ever seen, or dance the night away at lively beach clubs, book your stay in Uluwatu.
Visit here to explore GHA DISCOVERY hotels in Bali.
Greece
It’s no surprise that Greece is a favourite honeymoon destination since it is among the world’s most beautiful countries. Aside from visiting the capital city of Athens, a perfect blend of ancient and modern life, you may also want to explore the country’s diverse coastline with its gorgeous islands and beaches.
Only a short trip from Athens, Santorini offers the most dramatic views in the Mediterranean. Considered to be one of Greece’s best locations, Santorini is well known for its cliff-top whitewashed villages, unforgettable sunsets, and fresh seafood.
Visit here to explore GHA DISCOVERY hotels in Greece.
Italy
If you’re looking for a trip to remember, Italy—with its jaw-dropping scenery, incredibile cuisine, and romantic ambiance—is the place to be. Whether you’re searching for a classic city-break or a blissful countryside retreat, Italy has it.
Considered to be the more romantic destination than its neighboring cities, Venice is perhaps the best place to spend a honeymoon with its timeless piazzas, historic palaces, and elegant canals. Rome offers a variety of must-see spots from the Colosseum to the Vatican City. Another top destination is Florence, with its charming buildings, romantic squares and dramatic views.
Visit here to explore GHA DISCOVERY hotels in Italy.
Hawaii
It’s dreamy tropical setting, pristine beaches, and relaxed atmosphere make Hawaii one of the most popular destinations for honeymoons and romantic travellers. Whether you’re searching for adventure by hiking volcanos or you simply want to enjoy a luau, Hawaii really has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a combination of big city experiences and an impressive choice of historical and natural attractions, then Honolulu is perfect for you. Another place worth visiting is the magical area of Koloa, with its lush landscapes, rolling green pastures, and historic buildings.
Visit here to explore GHA DISCOVERY hotels in Hawaii.
Maldives
Filled with beautiful beaches, breathtaking corals, lush green scenery and crystal blue waters, Maldives is the perfect island paradise. It's the ideal getaway to rekindle your love, whether it’s your first time on holiday with your partner, a honeymoon or an anniversary.
From world-class surfing to some of the most epic snorkeling and scuba diving, the Maldives is the ultimate tropical getaway. You’ll have hundreds of luxurious accommodations to choose from, from overwater villas to romantic beach bungalows with your own personal pool.
Visit here to explore GHA DISCOVERY hotels in the Maldives.
17 August 2020
Staycation inspiration
Get away without going away
If you want to mentally escape for some rest and relaxation but you can’t travel outside your home country, then a staycation is just what you need. Here are some restorative mini-break ideas that you can do during your staycation to get you feeling refreshed and recharged, and ready to dive back into your daily grind.
Be a tourist in your own town
Treat your hometown like a new destination and visit its popular attractions and hidden gems. You can visit your city's well-known landmarks such as parks, fountains, boardwalks or even well-preserved architecture, or explore museums and experience the local art scene.
Enjoy a spa day
If spas and wellness centres are still closed in your area, why not create your own perfect spa experience. Set the mood with calming spa music and grab a diffuser for some lavender or eucalyptus smell, or if you don’t have a diffuser, lighting a fragrant candle will get the job done as well. You can do DIY treatments for your skin, nails, and hair, or you can just soak in the tub for a relaxing experience.
Create a yoga retreat
You don't need to escape to a faraway place to enjoy the invigorating experience of a yoga retreat. Find a suitable location, unroll your yoga mat, and turn on some online yoga tutorials. For the full yoga retreat experience, you can recreate amenities like a refreshing post-yoga drink - ice water infused with some fruit and cucumber slices.
Host your own movie festival
There’s nothing like a good movie night to bring your family or friends together. Try screening a series like Star Wars, Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings or you can pick a theme (horror, comedy, action, romance) and choose the films you like. For a truly cinematic experience, grab some popcorn and some ice-cold soda.
Play a game night
Invite a few friends or family members for some entertaining board games. You can play the classics and the favourites: Monopoly, the Game of Life, and Scrabble, or choose a more diverse set of games such as Sequence Game, Catan, Codenames, and Clue Game. Bring out everyone’s competitive spirit by offering a gift card for the prize.
Enjoy a cocktail evening
Preparing your favourite drink doesn’t have to be complicated at all! Find a straightforward recipe with minimal ingredients you’re good to go. Don’t worry too much about having the right glasses, but do invest in the finest spirits you can.
Check into a home away from home
A hotel staycation is the perfect opportunity to unplug from your daily routines because it lets you enjoy a fresh new perspective. With a wide variety of luxurious experiences and world-class amenities, you’re sure to find the perfect mini-break that suits your needs with GHA DISCOVERY.
Ready to indulge with a suite or a multiple night staycation? Explore here to find the nearest GHA DISCOVERY hotel or resort in your area.
