Image: Rome, Italy
Farewelling our winter woes and sitting patiently in anticipation of warmer climes, we asked some of the team behind Total Management Travel to share their destination of choice this spring. From ancient cities to sun-soaked beaches, the verdicts are in, and this is where you should be going, and staying, over the spring months.
Image: Marrakech, Morocco
Image: Royal Mansour - Courtesy of martynwhitedesigns
Marrakech, Morocco
Known as the gateway to the Sahara, Marrakech has certainly had its moment in the spotlight and it’s no wonder why. Showing no signs of slowing as a must-visit destination, the intoxicating city is both endearing, challenging, romantic and appealing. Perfect for spring travel, the not-too-hot months of March, April and May promise sunny skies and sublime temperatures. Get lost in the Medina’s labyrinth of souk-filled alleyways, marvel in the intricacy of the Marrakech palaces, explore further afield to the Atlas Mountains, and don’t leave without trying the traditional tagines. Only offering a small taste of Morocco, we don’t doubt you’ll be back.
Where to Stay: Royal Mansour
Born out of a desire to cater to the discerning traveller, the Royal Mansour Marrakech is a celebration of Moroccan architecture, tradition, heritage and culinary art. It comprises 53 private Riads (a traditional Moroccan house), three of Marrakech’s most revered dining destinations, an indulgent spa and indoor and outdoor pools.
Package from €3,300 for two people
Book a three-night stay in Superior one-bedroom riad with Total Management Travel and receive the following benefits:
• Upgrade to Premier One-Bedroom Riad (subject to availability)
• Daily full breakfast at La Table restaurant or your riad
• Fast track service upon arrival and departure at Marrakech Airport
• One romantic dinner at La Grande Table Marocaine (excluding beverages)
• Spa treatments in private Spa Suite (including one Hammam followed by a marocMaroc massage for two)
Image: Porto, Portugal
Image: Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa
Portugal
Portugal caters to travellers of all sensibilities with its striking natural beauty, lively nightlife, and time-worn charm. Named the Travel+Leisure 2016 Destination of the Year, this small European country is deservedly having a lengthened spot in the limelight. With the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south, and Spain to the north and east, it’s Mediterranean climate is perfect for a quick spring break sans the crowds. Whether it’s the golden sandy beaches of the Algarve or the rich heritage of Lisbon, every corner of the country is bound to surprise and delight.
Where to Stay: Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa
Perched at the edge of the spectacular Algarve Coast, VILA VITA Parc Resort and Spa is made up of Moorish-influenced buildings housing 170 rooms, suites and villas, ten restaurants, six bars, and a luxurious spa. Its privileged position provides visitors easy access to the region’s iconic cliff formations and blue-water grottos, and if you’ve got whole family in tow, there are endless activities to keep the littlest guests entertained, too.
Booking with Total Management will entitle you to the following:
• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Complimentary breakfast for two for duration of stay
• $100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilised during stay
• Bottle of wine, seasonal fruit and mineral water on arrival
• Early check-in/late-check-out subject to availability
Image: Rome, Italy
Image: La Posta Vecchia
Rome, Italy
In summer it’s too hot and the tourists are in full flock, in autumn and winter it’s wet and miserable, so naturally, springtime—when the flowers are flourishing and the weather’s just right—is the time to visit Rome. A firm favourite on most travel bucket lists, one visit and you still wouldn’t have scratched the surface of all the enthralling city has to offer.
Where to Stay: La Posta Vecchia
Certainly off-the-beaten-tourist-track, this 17th-century villa turned 21st century destination sits on the outskirts of Rome overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The former home of late John Paul Getty, the cliffside palace features just 19 guest rooms and is as luxurious as it is relaxing.
Booking with Total Management will entitle you to the following:
• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• $120 USD equivalent Spa Services credit to be utilised during stay (valid on treatments only, not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full, not valid on products or items in the boutique, cosmetic treatments excluded.)
• Daily buffet breakfast for up to two in-room guests
• A guided tour of the in-house Roman Museum
• Snacks and soft drinks from the minibar
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Image: Six Senses Zighy Bay
Oman
A captivating blend of modernity and a bygone age, Oman is as unique as it is beautiful. Guaranteeing springtime sun, the Arabian country’s colourful culture and striking tapestry of terrain sits waiting to be uncovered. Only opening itself up to tourism in the 1980s, the once seafaring nation now offers everything from safaris through the dramatic fjords, to diving and snorkelling the unspoilt coastline.
Where to Stay: Six Senses Zighy Bay
Located at the Northern Peninsula of Oman, this beautiful resort is unlike anywhere you’ve been before. With the beach to one side and mountains on the other, the 82 rustic stone villas are perfect for a family-friendly getaway or romantic trip for two.
Booking with Total Management will entitle you to the following:
• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily breakfast
• A complimentary 50-minute massage for up to two people, per room, once during stay
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Image: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Image: Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Beat the post-winter blues at this not so sleepy seaside town. Alluring travellers with its palm-lined beaches and turquoise seas, the once quiet fishing village is quickly becoming a go-to jaunt for people from all over the world. Soak in the sun, explore the Mayan Ruins at neighbouring Tulum, dive a Cenote, and of course, indulge in authentic Mexican street food.
Where to Stay: Banyan Tree Mayakoba
A sanctuary for the senses, this luxury resort set along the Riviera Maya coast expertly blends Asian hospitality with the passion of Mexico. Comprising over 100 well-appointed guest rooms, suites and villas, an indulgent spa, golf course, beach club and more, it’s the perfect escape.
Booking with Total Management will entitle you to the following:
• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Complimentary international buffet breakfast
• $100 USD equivalent food and beverage credit to be utilised during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
• Preferential green fees at El Camaleon, a PGA championship golf course
• 10% discount at Banyan Tree Spa
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Contact us for more information, or discover more inspiration here.