Middle East
But what effect will this have on the tourism
market to the country? Specialist operators such as Steppes Travel
and Regent Travel have been operating to Iran for several years, despite the economic sanctions, while Cox & Kings is reintroducing a tour to the country in 2016 after a five-year absence. Meanwhile, UK-based train operator Golden
Eagle Luxury Trains set out to recreate the exotic magic of the Orient Express, launching a series of journeys that will touch on Iran; under its Persia and The Silk Road itineraries in 2016 is an 18-night journey from Moscow to Iran. Andrea Godfrey, Regent Holidays’ general
manager, says it has already seen an increase in bookings since the reopening of the British Embassy in the Iranian capital Tehran in August. She adds: “There are very few hotels in Iran
at present that would be comparable to international five-star standards. They are described locally as ‘five star’ but don’t offer the kind of facilities such as Wi-Fi and levels of service that would be internationally recognised as five-star. While it’s a destination that can now be done in a reasonable level of comfort, it may be some time before the offering for tourists is considered truly upmarket.” In 2016, Regent Holidays will offer its first
exclusive small-group tour to the region for many years. The 15-day journey begins in Tabriz, home to a famously labyrinthine bazaar, then journeys south towards Shiraz via the Unesco World Heritage sites of Soltaniyeh, hectic capital Tehran, Persepolis, the rock tombs at Naqsh-e Rostam, and finally Shiraz. Meanwhile, Cox & Kings is launching a 10-
night escorted small-group tour to Iran called Treasures of Persia, from March 2016 following the improvement in diplomatic relations with the country.
Pictured 1. Isfahan Shah Mosque, Iran 2. Wadi Rum, Jordan 3. Doha from above 4. Nizwa Fort, Oman 5. Apadana Palace, Persepolis, Iran 6. Falconry in Qatar
62
TTGLUXURY.COM WINTER 2015 DESTINATIONS Product manager Michael Fleetwood adds:
“Iran has a huge amount of potential as a cultural destination, but I don’t think it will market itself as a luxury destination – it certainly won’t be trying to be the next Dubai. The wealth of history in Iran makes it more of a fascinating cultural destination.” So while Iran may not yet have the luxury
resorts that have become a staple in other parts of the Middle East, it looks set to be one of those destinations that will increasingly feature on the wishlists of clients wanting a new type of cultural experience in years to come.
We take a look at how far the budget goes in the Middle East The cost of luxury
Sun seekers
Clients looking to soak up some serious rays can make the most of a summer deal in Abu Dhabi, with a short stay at Emirates Palace. Simply Luxury by Travel 2 offers three nights half-board in a Pearl Room including flights and private transfers from £729pp, but travel is June 1-30. Tel: 0800 0224 182,
travel2.com
Culture club
Cox & Kings offers a private nine-day Grand Tour of Oman from £2,565pp, staying in four and five-star accommodation such as The View, an eco- retreat at Nizwa. The tour also includes Muscat, Khasab – the capital of the Musandam peninsula - and Salalah. Tel: 020 7873 5000,
coxandkings.co.uk
Pick of persia Regent Holidays has a new 15-day Journey through Persia by train for 2016. It departs on May 16 or September 19 (£5,995pp inclusive) and follows the route of Alexander the Great from Istanbul via Cappadocia, Kurdistan and Van, Zanjan, Yazd, Isfahan, Persepolis, Shiraz and Tehran. Tel: 020 7666 1244,
regent-holidays.co.uk
Steal £729
Deal £2,565
Bucketlist £5,995
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