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Departures


Dromoland Castle Ireland


On a hawk walk through the forest trails


and open meadows of the Dromoland Castle grounds, Mike, the resident falconer, explained the history of falconry and enticed our Harris hawk companion to alight on my outstretched arm for a morsel of food. Tat was just one of many fun, immersive


experiences. Sean, who guides walking and pony-and-trap (horse-drawn buggy) tours around the 450-acre estate, related stories about the original owner, 11th-century Irish king, Brian Boru and his descendants and their places in Irish history; and in the centuries-old walled gardens, head gardener Dorothea pointed out plantings that attract specific species of butterflies and stone niches that once held bee hives. Located in the County Clare countryside,


just 10 minutes from Shannon International Airport, the castle-hotel’s 99 guest rooms and public areas, updated with fast wi- fi, built-in voltage converters and other amenities, retain their historic decor and feel. A championship golf course, spa and fitness center complement activities such as fishing, clay pigeon shooting, archery and croquet. My favorite rituals though, were the posh afternoon tea and listening to Irish ballads at the fireplace-warmed bar. Geri Bain


Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Dubai, UAE


Tis iconic hotel soars in the shape of


a sail. Covered with gold leaf and marble, all suites span two levels with sweeping staircases and spacious en suites. Despite an odd Disney-esque feel (expect a lot of tourists taking selfies), we find sanctuary at the spacious spa, the fusion restaurant Scape and a new Californian- style beach club with sandy beaches, infinity pools and 32 air-conditioned cabanas (entry to overnight guests only). We feast on fish from Devon, with a menu by


Michelin-starred British chef Nathan Outlaw, and enjoy caviar spa treatments, courtesy of French brand La Prairie, from a spa menu that includes gold and platinum tattoos. Our suites give sweeping views of man-


made islands and our butler knows what we want before we’ve even asked. It all contributes to a feeling of being completely looked after. After just one night, nothing seems real, even the bill on departure. Sam Lewis


124 | asta.org Essentials


Address: Newmarket- on-Fergus, County Clare, Ireland Price: 2017 rack rates from $283 for a double room including breakfast and VAT dromoland.ie


Essentials


Address: PO Box 74147, Dubai Price: Suites are priced from $1,300 jumeirah.com


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