Last week we celebrated International Woman’s Day, and this Sunday we’ll be paying homage to the most significant woman in our life: our mother. Hallmark cards and flowers are always appreciated, “it’s the thought that counts”, but I know from personal experience that time spent together means so much more. Few things are more magical than witnessing a fiery sunset, so, with this in mind, we have curated five very special destinations to take your mum and share with her the wonders of dusk.
NOVA MALDIVES
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon at the new Nova Maldives, the sky becomes a stunning display of vibrant colours. Shades of pink, orange, and purple blend together seamlessly, creating a breath-taking ombre effect. The clouds in the sky are illuminated, casting a warm golden glow across the landscape and for a moment the world seems to be bathed in a surreal light. As the sun continues its descent, colours intensify before morphing into an exquisite afterglow that gradually fades into a deep, mysterious blue. Much like trying to capture images of fireworks that never seem to do justice, it’s a beautiful and peaceful experience that can only be fully appreciated in person and preferably with a loved one.
Aerial view of Nova Maldives as the sun sets.
Dive into a bucket-list of adventures at Nova and discover what lies beneath the crystal blue waters around the resort. Experience the colourful marine life of the South Ari Atoll including snorkelling with whale sharks (the only place in the world where you can swim with them all year round) as well as with mantas, turtles and dolphins. When the sun sets, enjoy a fluorescent night snorkelling excursion and witness the dark marine world in a whole new light; or create happy memories with a sunset cruise on the beautiful Indian Ocean.
Snorkelling with whales sharks is one of the extraordinary experiences you can share with your mum at Nova Maldives.
A seven-night stay at Nova Maldives departing 14 May 2023 costs from £2,435pp (saving £180pp). Price is based on two sharing a Beachfront Villa on a full-board basis. Book online HERE or HERE.
CARPE DIEM SANTORINI
Santorini is famous for having the most beautiful sunsets in the world thanks to its unique geographical location and landscape. The island’s position in the Aegean Sea allows for clear views of the volcanic caldera under its waters and a horizon without obstruction. Additionally, the island’s white-washed houses and cliffs reflect the warm golden rays of the sun, creating a stunningly picturesque panorama.
A cliff-top scene bathed in the unparalleled glow unique to Santorini.
Carpe Diem Santorini’s unique positioning in the Pyrgos Village provides a peaceful and serene atmosphere away from the crowds of the island’s more popular destinations. With its 270-degree view over the Aegean Sea, this is the perfect destination to witness both the sunrise and the sunset from any of its 10 suites. Mothers can enjoy a luxurious spa treatment or take a dip in their private pool while watching the sun dip below the horizon. Rooms feature contemporary aesthetics and brilliant white interiors, balanced by earthy materials such as the black lava rock framing the living rooms. Muted tones of the spa-inspired bathrooms compliment the unpretentious luxury of this family-run, adults-only retreat. If you don’t wish to venture into town, the hotel’s restaurant offers a delectable selection of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine to complete the perfect Mother’s Day celebration.
From the private pool of each of the suites, guests enjoy breath-taking views of the sky at twilight.
Minimum two-night bookings. Stay 16th -18th May from £1,082 in the Alba Suite. Book online HERE.
NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA
On the coast in the centre of Orange County, Southern California, lies Newport Beach, where luxury and elegance meet a laid-back beach vibe. The vibrant coastal city is paradisiacal with pristine beaches, championship golf courses, upscale shopping centres and fine-dining experiences including Nobu and Rothschild. City dwellers and nature lovers both agree that the beachfront town is intoxicating and immediately captivates all who visit, offering a superb location for an escapade with mum.
Marina Park at sunset. The sophisticated charm of Newport Beach and abundance of facilities and attractions will certainly delight your mother.
Visitors to Newport Beach are spoilt for choice with a range of luxurious hotels to choose from. For a waterfront stay, the dog friendly Balboa Bay Resort offers luxury and comfort and is one of the most unique hotels in Newport Beach, CA. The legendary Balboa Bay Clubwas opened in 1947, and some of its most notable members included Greta Garbo, Clark Gable, Jack Benny, Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Bing Crosby, John Wayne, and Joan Crawford – to name but a few. In 1966, construction of the 144 apartments began, and in 2003, the 159-room resort opened to the public.
Newport Beach is known for the expensive yachts floating in its harbours and some of the best shopping and dining in California.
Enjoy a three-night stay in the 500sq ft Bay View rooms at Balboa Bay Resort with two queen beds and a private balcony from $2340.00 (inclusive of taxes and fees) in April.
Find out more options and book HERE. More information on Newport Beach HERE.
THE RESIDENCE ZANZIBAR
A truly authentic African escape, The Residence Zanzibar is steeped in 32 hectares of lush tropical gardens, fringed by a pristine mile-long beach. Teaming with natural beauty, guests are invited to explore the treasures of the wild, including the indigenous Red Colobus Monkey, or indulge their senses at the spice plantation. The resort’s 66 villas provide the ultimate Mother’s Day getaway, with a private pool and terrace to relax in the African heat, bespoke hospitality and an enchanting elegance inspired by the Island’s African, Omani and European heritage.
Relax, dine and indulge in delicious cocktails beside the glass-walled infinity pool, whilst savouring the show-stopping views across the Zanzibar seascape.
As the sun descends into the ocean, a breath-taking kaleidoscope of colours appear in the sky. Treat mum to an intimate dining experience within the privacy of your villa terrace amid the flickering of tiki torches or venture out to the resort’s expansive jetty for a truly unforgettable evening under the stars.
Immerse yourselves in the incredible Zanzibar sunsets from the jetty’s unique perspective.
A Luxury Ocean front Villa stay in April 2023 starts from around $771 per night. More information HERE.
CAESARS PALACE DUBAI
Located on the vibrant Bluewaters Island, with a selection of 479 stylish and contemporary guest rooms and suites, this beachfront resort offers the ultimate in luxury and relaxation with stunning views and uninterrupted seascapes.
Guests of Caesars Palace Dubai can enjoy sunset views from the resort’s newly launched bar, The Lounge. Featuring an aptly named Sunset Terrace, the bar features a menu of signature cocktails inspired by Middle Eastern flavours and a signature Ruinart Champagne ritual, perfect for toasting Mother’s Day, while watching the sun melt into the shimmering Arabian Gulf.
Sunset at Caesars Palace Dubai – the perfect place to raise a glass to celebrate mum.
Indulge your gourmet senses at one of the many celebrated restaurants, from sun-drenched poolside lunches to fine dining evening experiences, the variety of venues offer gastronomical delights with cuisines to satisfy every palate.
Left: expect the unexpected at celebrity chef Alvin Leung’s Demon Duck restaurant (Hokkaido Scallop Dumplings with Beurre Blanc Caviar and Gold Leaf). Right: Gordon Ramsey’s Hell’s Kitchen draws inspiration from his reality TV show (Beef Wellington).
Rates and booking information HERE.
“Life doesn’t come with a manual, but it does come with a mother.”
Words: Shelley Campbell
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