Latest news with #affordableTravel
The National
11 hours ago
- The National
Rove Al Marjan Island review: The budget-friendly brand drawing crowds in booming Ras Al Khaimah
The Rove Hotels format arrived on our shores in 2019 as a price-conscious but fun alternative for travellers seeking to enjoy Dubai without blowing their budget. Ten properties have since opened around the city and the homegrown brand recently extended its laid-back appeal to Ras Al Khaimah. Rove Al Marjan Island is a 441-room beachfront hotel that readily caters to couples, families and digital nomads who crave vibrancy and price over frills and formality. The welcome The vehicle entrance arrives suddenly on the main island road and opens on to a short drive and a spacious car park. Rovers – as guests are playfully referred to – can drop their luggage and passengers in front of the lobby or go straight to self-parking and wheel their bags across. We chose the latter on spotting a coach arrive. However, it's an immediate glimpse of Rove's refreshing less-fuss format, something echoed when we venture unaccompanied to the lifts after a swift and friendly check-in. The room Not really fans of an unnecessary curated room introduction, my wife and I find our way along a colourful corridor to our fifth floor, sea-facing accommodation. Breezy but formulaic designs prevail in Rove hotels, from licence-plate-style room numbers to the digs themselves. An open wardrobe and storage area flanks a comfy bed, opposite a widescreen TV that features seemingly every news channel except the BBC or CNN. There's no robe, but additional amenities such as extra pillows, shaving kits and an ironing board can be requested. There is, however, a fridge and an invigorating rain shower. Rove loves an inspirational message as well as seaside-inspired artwork. 'The beach is not just a place, it's a feeling,' the wall above our bed reveals. The food Rove regulars will be familiar with the brand's main dining option, The Daily. The venue for breakfast, lunch and dinner is spacious, but eclectic decor and furniture and smart layout lends it an almost intimate feel. Primarily buffet-orientated, guests can choose a la carte – although it was suggested on our arrival that only the former was available, only for ordered dishes to land on nearby tables. The organic sea bass (Dh99) and acacia chicken club sandwich (Dh71) looked promising, however, and serendipity meant buffet access to the finest paneer jalfrezi I've sampled in a while, with salads of pumpkin and squash, plus quinoa with molasses also shining. Grilled fish with beurre blanc and beef shashlik also proved a hit on our table, as did refreshing soft drinks named Floral Fall and Sunrise Surprise. Day-time snacks and refreshments can also be had from the Rove Beachside Truck and the Pool Bar, which offers a great selection of food including a tomato flatbread (Dh57) substantial enough for sharing. If you crave further evening options, you're a short walk from food trucks on the island promenade and F&B at neighbouring hotels. The breakfast scene Open only since in April, Rove Al Marjan Island staff seemingly have had to hit the ground running. Not least at the busiest breakfast session we've witnessed in a while. Everyone seems to find a table, however, before heading to a buffet that includes a decent fruit and salad selection, baked goodies and hot options such as ful medames, scrambled eggs and sausages. Guests can also order one item each from a menu that includes basil and rhubarb bircher muesli and mango lavender waffles. We can vouch for the semi-dried tomato-powered Mediterranean omelette and a decadent acai super jar that includes agave, basil seeds, almond butter, passion fruit and mint concasse. No shakshuka here (as previously swooned over at Rove La Mer), but the buffet does yield croissant and blueberry bake, a revelation washed down with TWG tea. Accessibility and sustainability Plenty of ramps in to and out of the hotel, across to the pool and through to the beach make this Rove very friendly towards wheelchair users. And the property's sustainability credentials are evident with its 'hang your towel to reuse' messaging in the bathroom and leave-behind shampoo and shower gels – plus its use of refillable glass water bottles with a label announcing 'plastic ain't fantastic'. The Rove's adherence to Ras Al Khaimah's Green Building Regulations includes composting all food waste. Hotel facilities The main pool immediately stands out. A sensible rectangle, generous in relation to the hotel, it is lined with plenty of loungers and shallow enough for supervised children to enjoy. The beach is a few steps away with a buoy rope boundary to keep jet-skiers and other water sporting folk a safe distance from swimmers. There's a quieter area with double loungers and cabanas to one side of the main pool zone. On the other side, a big screen shows movies and sports on a grassy area soundtracked by a DJ operating evenings out of a VW camper van, occasionally joined by a fire poi performer. Another nice – and practical touch – is a significant luggage storage area, each unit bearing the name of an area in RAK, and beyond. Beside this is one of two fitness areas. Inside features plenty of new Life Fitness equipment while outside there's a Woodsman Fitness 'Jungle Gym', a Flintstones-style workout area with wooden weights and more. The co-working space – typical of Rove hotels – is blessed with natural light and busy with digital nomads, some possibly making use of Rove's monthly stay deals. Family-friendly factor Younger Rovers were evidently part of the brief when designers pondered RAK Rove, from surfboard-adapted pool showers to the strong use of colour throughout. There's a dedicated indoor play area with TV and soft toys, and a soft-play zone outside beside a small, family-only pool. Value for money Rove Al Marjan Island combines good value with a fun vibe. A sea view room for Dh474 ($132), including taxes, for up to three people is hard to beat for a fresh property with direct beach access and a generous pool in one of the hottest real estate locations in the UAE – all close to the emerging Wynn resort. Check-in is from 4pm (earlier if pre-booked) and check-out is at 2pm.
LBCI
18 hours ago
- Business
- LBCI
Lebanese-French Coordination Committee calls for immediate action to lower MEA ticket prices
The Lebanese-French Coordination Committee (CCLF) sent two open letters to President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, urging immediate action to address the soaring prices of airline tickets to and from Lebanon imposed by the national carrier, Middle East Airlines (MEA). In a statement, the committee announced that the letters were accompanied by a petition signed by thousands of Lebanese citizens and friends of Lebanon, describing the current ticket prices as excessive. The signatories demanded an immediate reduction in MEA fares, which, according to the committee, have been significantly higher than those in neighboring countries for years. The petition also called for opening Lebanese airspace to low-cost airlines to ensure fair competition and make travel more accessible to all. The committee warned that the lack of competition not only limits citizens' freedom of movement but also harms Lebanon's tourism sector and weakens the country's connection to its diaspora. "In a country already burdened by multiple crises, encouraging affordable travel to and from Lebanon is essential," the statement read. The committee urged authorities to respond to what it described as a legitimate demand and called on Lebanese citizens to support this initiative to maintain their ties with their homeland.
The Sun
20-06-2025
- The Sun
Parents race to Home Bargains for travel set that contains a cabin bag, rucksack, pillow and MORE for less than £20
PARENTS are racing to get to their nearest Home Bargains store, eager to nab a travel set that kids will love. Not only does it contain a cabin bag, a rucksack, a travel pillow and more, but it's super affordable too. 3 3 3 So if you're lucky enough to be jetting abroad any time soon, then you've come to the right place and will need to check this out. Particularly with the costs of holidays rising, if you're desperate to find a luggage solution that won't break the bank, this is just the thing. It comes after one savvy shopper was left beaming after browsing the aisles in her local Home Bargains, when she spotted the brand new 5-Piece Kids' Travel Set on shelves. Thrilled with her affordable find, Catherine Jacinto Dela Cruz took to social media to alert others to the purse-friendly set, leaving many totally stunned. Posting on BARGAIN LOVERS Poundland, Home Bargains, B&M, Primark, The Range & More, a public Facebook group with 852,000 members, Catherine uploaded a snap of her find and beamed: ' Kids ' travel set spotted at Home Bargains.' Thanks to this epic five-piece set, you'll get a carry-on bag, a backpack and a lunch bag. But that's not all, as it's also complete with a travel pillow and a zip pouch. The carry-on bag and backpacks are perfect for packing your little one's clothes and holiday essentials. Meanwhile, the lunch bag will ensure their snacks don't get squished, while the travel pillow is great for getting some rest on long flights. And if you're worried they'll lose their valuables, the zip pouch is perfect for keeping items safe and secure. Parents are racing to B&M desperate to nab 'the cutest' kids' cabin cases - they're ideal for EasyJet & Jet2 passengers The Home Bargains set is available in three styles - so if your little one can't get enough of sharks, rainbows or camo print, you're sure to find something that's just right for them. It won't burn a hole in your wallet either, as it's priced at just £19.99, which we think is a real steal. Holiday packing tips Jemma Solomon, aka The Label Lady has got 5 packing tips to help you get organised for your next holiday. 1. Write a list Think about all the essentials you need to take with you; suncream, medicine, a few games for the kids, beach towels, and write everything in one list, which you can tick off as you add it to your suitcase. Or for complete ease, try Google's AI app - Gemini - which will create a list for you and help you not over pack. 2. Involve your kids Jemma said: 'My girls are getting older, they're 11 and nine, and they enjoy helping to pack. So I send them a list, and say 'this is what you need' and they follow the list. 'And then I give them a rucksack each - and say to them 'you can have whatever you want in there as long as it's not liquid', and they can take that on the plane. And that's their 'home away from home' items.' 3. Try a hack or two She said: "I think they all work, but for different reasons - and you've just got to pick the right one for your trip. "Rolling your clothes is really good to stop your clothes from getting creases. And if you're trying to get a lot of items into your case, it's a space saver. 'Packing cubes are great - for example, I'm going on holiday with my three kids and we're all using the same suitcase for our clothes. "These handy compartments let you separate your clothes, toiletries and tech into designated cubes, maximising luggage space by keeping your items compressed and neatly stacked. "I love taking them abroad with the family and it means my kids can easily take charge of their own items once we've arrived." 4. Decant beauty products Do you really need to take full-size bottles of shampoo and conditioner with you? The beauty industry has evolved so much, you can now buy shampoo bars or sheets - which are much lighter and smaller. Or, if you'll be popping to the shops when you're abroad, consider buying some items when you arrive. 5. Get organised before you come home Jemma said: 'When you repack on holiday [before coming home], the trick is to separate clean from dirty clothes. 'Also pack it in some form of order - so lights, darks, colours for items that need washing, or if you wash your clothes by person in the household, piles for each person. "Then you can put it straight into the washing machine. Do it straight away, don't leave it." And it's clear that Facebook users were left beaming with the high-street find, as Catherine's post has quickly racked up 121 likes and 72 comments. One person said: 'I got one of them for my son and he loved it.' Another added: 'That looks good.' Meanwhile, a third tagged a friend and commented: 'If you see this, let me know.' Not only this, but one parent mentioned a loved one and beamed: 'I want these for the kids!' The Sun Travel team's holiday essentials WITH decades of experience and hundreds of countries under their belt, the Sun Travel team have shared some of the essential items they always pack on a trip. Here are some of the game-changing items we always pack - and some will barely cost you a thing. Lisa Minot, Head of Travel - Global travel plug with USB (£64) Caroline McGuire, Travel Editor - Hotel Slippers Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor - Pack of 40 earplugs (£40) Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor - 1 litre water bottle (£8.99) Ryan Gray, Travel Reporter - Bluetooth eye mask (£16.50) Giuli Graziano, Travel Writer - AirTag luggage location tracker (£29.99).
Zawya
19-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi starts direct flights to Gabala
Abu Dhabi, UAE – Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the ultra-low-fare national airline of the UAE, has launched its inaugural flight to Gabala from Abu Dhabi. Wizz Air Abu Dhabi is the first and only airline to connect Gabala with the UAE. This significant milestone not only reinforces the airline's regional expansion by adding a second airport in Azerbaijan to the WIZZ map after Baku, but also makes it the only ultra-low-cost carrier currently operating between Azerbaijan and the UAE capital. The launch reaffirms Wizz Air Abu Dhabi's mission to offer affordable, reliable, and smart travel options for all, while creating a unique opportunity for UAE residents and tourists to explore the scenic Caucasus region. The new route operates three times per week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, with one-way fares starting from just AED 89**. Tickets are available on and via the WIZZ mobile app in both Arabic and English. Wizz Air Abu Dhabi is celebrating with an exciting offer of up to 20% off ticket fares, available to all customers today. Tamara Vallois, Head of Commercial at Wizz Air said: 'Today marks a significant milestone as we commence our flights to Gabala and add it as a new point on the WIZZ map of affordable travel from the UAE. The launch of direct commercial operations opens new opportunities to boost tourism and drive economic growth in the region. Thanks to Wizz Air Abu Dhabi's affordable fares, residents of northern Azerbaijan now have a quick and convenient way to discover the vibrant attractions and rich cultural heritage of Abu Dhabi. At the same time, travellers from Abu Dhabi can experience the stunning landscapes and natural beauty that this region offers year-round. To celebrate our connectivity, we are offering an unmissable discount of up to 20% on ticket fares today. We remain committed to expanding our network and providing value-driven travel options, while reinforcing Abu Dhabi's role as a gateway to unique global destinations.' Nathalie Jongma, Vice President of Aviation Development at Abu Dhabi Airports, said: 'Wizz Air Abu Dhabi's new direct flights to Gabala represent a key step in expanding air connectivity between the UAE and the Caucasus region through Zayed International Airport. By strengthening access to this beautiful and culturally rich destination, Wizz Air is actively enhancing travel choices for residents and tourists, while also playing a key role in promoting AUH as a gateway to the world.' Gabala, often referred to as the 'Switzerland of Azerbaijan,' is a tranquil city surrounded by lush forests, lakes, and the majestic Caucasus Mountains. It offers a wide array of activities including hiking, paragliding, and skiing, alongside cultural attractions such as the Gabala Archaeological Center and the Tufandag Mountain Resort. This route supports cultural exchange, boosts bilateral tourism, and brings the charming beauty of Azerbaijan within easy reach for travellers from the Emirates. WIZZ AIR ABU DHABI'S NEWEST ROUTE TO AZERBAIJAN *This promotion applies on 19 June 2025 from 00.00 till 23.59 CET ('Promotional period').The up to 20% discount applies to the fare, excluding the administration fee. The up to 20% discount applies only on selected flights to/from Abu Dhabi International Airport available on and on the WIZZ mobile app during the Promotional period. Travel period is limited, from 1 July 2025 till 31 October 2025. The promotion applies only to bookings made on or on the WIZZ mobile app. Promotion does not apply to group bookings. **Fares are one-way, inclusive of an administration fee. Includes one carry-on bag (40x30x20cm); additional fees apply for trolley bags and checked baggage. Available exclusively on and the WIZZ mobile app. Limited seats available. Terms and conditions apply. About Wizz Air Abu Dhabi: Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the national carrier of the UAE, is a joint venture by ADQ, one of the region's largest holding companies with a broad portfolio of major enterprises spanning key sectors of Abu Dhabi's diversified economy, and Wizz Air Holdings Plc, the European ultra-low-cost airline, operating a fleet of 237 –Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft. Strategically located in the UAE, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi is the ultra-low-cost carrier of the region, carrying the flag of affordable and safe travel for all passengers. As part of Wizz Air Holdings Plc, based in Europe and the UK, it contributes to the group's success of carrying 62.8 million passengers across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia in Financial Year 2024, ending 31 March Air is listed on the London Stock Exchange under the ticker WIZZ. The airline was recently named one of the world's ten safest airlines by the world's only safety and product rating agency, and named Airline of the Year by Air Transport Awards in 2019 and 2023. Wizz Air has also been recognised as 'Most Sustainable Low-Cost Airline' within the World Finance Sustainability Awards in 2021-2024, as 'Airline Group of the Year for Global Environmental Sustainability' by CAPA-Centre for Aviation Awards for Excellence in 2022-2023 and "EMEA's most Environmental Sustainability Airline Group of the Year" by the CAPA-Centre for Aviation Awards for Excellence 2024. For more information: Alexa Weber; Wizz Air Group; communications@ Follow us on Instagram: @wizzair Follow us on Facebook: @wizzair Follow us on Twitter: @wizzair Press Office: E-mail: wizzair@ Notes for Editors: All Wizz Air Abu Dhabi flights are operated on Airbus A321 neo aircraft and A321 ceo aircraft For free pictures of aircraft, crews and logo library please visit
Daily Mail
12-06-2025
- Daily Mail
The beautiful destination that's a cheap and sunny swap for Dubai
A gorgeous destination in Turkey has been described as an affordable swap for a holiday in Dubai. According to new research which looked at prices in several top destinations, a five-day trip to Antalya in Turkey will cost Brits around £640. Meanwhile the same trip in Dubai could cost tourists a whopping £896, more than £250 extra. Antalya is a Turkish resort city located on the country's beautiful and sunny Turquoise Coast. Lonely Planet reveals: 'The largest city on Turkey's western Mediterranean coastline is both classically beautiful and stylishly modern. 'The old city wraps around a splendid Roman-era harbour with clifftop views of hazy-blue mountain silhouettes that are worth raising a toast to.' Antalya's best-rated attraction on Tripadvisor is Kaleci, its seafront historic district that dates back to the Roman era. Within its winding streets tourists will find Hadrian's Gate, the city's clock tower and the Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Cami, an Ottoman-era mosque. At Antalya museum, visitors will find collections spanning from the Paleolithic Age to the Ottoman era. But of course many of the millions of tourists who visit Antalya every year are travelling for the Turquoise Coast's spectacular beaches. Konyaalti Beach is the region's best-rated on Tripadvisor. Sunbathers can enjoy crystal-clear water and gorgeous views of the mountains. Another top spot on the Turquoise Coast, Lara Beach is known for its golden sand and stretches for 8km. Jet2, British Airways, easyJet, Pegasus and TUI all offer direct flights from the UK to Antalya. The flight takes around four and a half hours. Total Travel Protection, which commissioned the research, also recommends going to Prague instead of London and Marrakech instead of Bali. But if you've got your heart set on a break in Dubai or Bali, one of the team's travel experts has shared their top tips to save on a luxury holiday. Sarah Findlay, travel expert at Total Travel Protection, explains: 'Don't overlook five-star hostels. You can get rooftop pools, designer decor and private suites for a fraction of what you'd pay at a luxury hotel. 'When it comes to dining, lunch is the ultimate luxury hack. Many Michelin-starred or fine dining restaurants offer lunchtime tasting menus at a fraction of the evening price, with the same quality and service. 'It's an easy way to elevate your experience without blowing through your budget.' And if you're looking for a bargain city break, new research has revealed the cheapest destination for a holiday that won't break the bank. According to the research, Linz in Austria is one of this year's cheapest destinations to fly to with one-way trips available for under £17.
