Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sleeping & Eating
Along the Dead Sea Highway, about 5km south of Suweimeh, there are a number of first-
class resorts. They don't look much from the highway but, once inside, they tumble into
landscaped gardens, terraced sun spots, cascading pools and pristine Dead Sea beaches.
They all have excellent restaurants and offer vantage points for watching the sun set over
the hills of Judaea. Reservations are necessary at weekends (Friday and Saturday). At oth-
er times, discounts are often offered for walk-in customers. Unfortunately, there are no
budget or midrange hotels in the vicinity. Madaba is the nearest town for cheaper accom-
modation, but as public transport to or from Madaba is so impractical you'll spend more
time on the road than you will in the sea - unless you take a tour.
In addition to the long-established hotels following, a new Hilton and a Crowne Plaza
are due to open by this topics publication.
RESORT
Mövenpick Resort & Spa$$$
( 3561111;
www.moevenpick-hotels.com
; r from JD215; )
This won-
derful haven of dates and hibiscus boasts a river that ambles through the village-style
complex of rustic two-storey apartments. Wooden screens and balconies allow guests to
enjoy the view (of sea or gardens) in private, while secluded seating areas around a superb
infinity pool add to the ambience of discreet, gentle pleasure. The Zara Spa is justifiably
renowned as one of the best in the Middle East. Culinary high points include Al-Saraya
buffet, a Thursday night barbecue and prodigious Friday brunch. If five-star luxury is your
thing, you won't want to stay anywhere else.
Kempinski Hotel Ishtar$$$
( 3568888;
www.kempinski.com
;
s/d from JD200/220; )
Dominating the
shore, this grand resort is not shy in its bid to be the best. Floor-to-ceiling windows stretch
the length of the Dead Sea vista, a Sumerian-style lobby overlooks a spectacular, circular
infinity pool, and a series of water features tumbles down to the Dead Sea, making this a
palace among hotels. Each of the modern rooms has a semi-shaded balcony and semi-
sunken bath. Champagne is served with breakfast and the restaurant cuisine, including
Thai and Mediterranean, is excellent. Visit at night time when a walk through the floodlit
grounds is like participating in a piece of conceptual art.
RESORT
Dead Sea Marriott$$$
( 3560400;
www.marriott.com
;
s/d from JD175/ 190; )
Polished marble
floors, brass fixtures and fittings, and spacious rooms contribute to the general opulence
RESORT
