Sublime summer escapes with Anantara

The sparkling shores of Phuket provide the perfect setting for fun-filled summer adventures, and the quieter summer months are a wonderful time to visit. Enjoy lazy days on palm-fringed beaches, island excursions to colourful fishing villages and historic Old Phuket Town, or even yacht charters to explore the iconic limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay and the tropical islands beyond. With stunning natural beauty, endless activities and Thailand’s world-famous warmth and hospitality, a summer Phuket escape to Thailand has something for all ages.

Where to stay: Phuket’s Andaman Coast hosts two luxurious Anantara resorts, each verging onto golden sands with spectacular ocean views. Anantara Layan Phuket Resort is a long-time favourite among adventurous families and couples in search of romance. A little further north, Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas offers a more serene experience, with beautifully appointed pool villas offering all the peace and privacy you need. Or discover one of Thailand’s last untouched paradises at Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas on the neighbouring island of Koh Yao Yai, just a short speedboat ride from Phuket.

From June to September each year, manta rays return to the waters of the Maldives to feed in the plankton-rich waters of Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll – a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. For those who want to connect with nature and the great outdoors, a summer Maldives escape offers the opportunity to swim, snorkel and dive with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. And this is just one of the extraordinary experiences the Maldives has to offer. White-sand atolls surrounded by reefs teeming with marine life abound, while lovers of sailing, fishing and even surfing are spoiled for choice, and it’s all to be experienced from some of the most luxurious island resorts in the world.

Where to stay: Immerse in the unparalleled natural beauty of the Maldives at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas. Located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this luxurious island resort gives guests access to some of the best dive sites in the world, and the opportunity to swim with manta rays in season. Spend your days submerged in coral-filled seas and your nights dining by moonlight, or surveying the stars from the resort’s overwater observatory.

Explore the beauty of southern Oman during Khareef season, when seasonal rains transform the rocky terrain into a lush landscape of verdant valleys and rushing waterfalls – a welcome relief from the summer heat of surrounding countries. Bask in the cool misty climate, ideal for exploring the Omani coastline, the Frankincense Trail and a wealth of cultural treasures such as Al-Baleed Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's vibrant heritage.

Where to stay: Experience unparalleled luxury at Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, a stunning coastal retreat that offers an extraordinary and unforgettable escape during the Khareef season. Conveniently located just 15 km from Salalah International Airport, the resort sits within easy reach of a variety of cultural treasures and thrilling escapades.

Steeped in rich heritage and culture, the Austrian capital beckons with the promise of a luxuriously serene summer escape. Whether for a weekend away or a base for a grand European adventure, Vienna epitomises elegance and refinement at every turn. Embark on a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where baroque palaces and ornate cathedrals abound. Discover the timeless beauty of the Belvedere Palace gardens, an idyllic backdrop for leisurely summer afternoons, and immerse yourself in the refined pleasures of the Austrian summer.

Where to stay: Relax in the midst of the city’s leading museums and theatres at Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel, a haven of neo-Renaissance grandeur ideally located on the Ringstrasse. Delve into the city’s rich history as you explore on foot or savour local pastries in a streetside coffeehouse, then return to the hotel for Michelin-star dining and spa rejuvenation.

Ras Al Khaimah beckons with enchanting summer escapes filled with adventure and discovery. Embrace the relaxed atmosphere of this coastal paradise as you explore its hidden gems and natural wonders. Sink your toes into the soft sands of pristine beaches, where crystal-clear waters beckon for a refreshing dip or a leisurely sunbathing session. Delve into the rich history and culture of the region at the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, where artefacts and exhibits offer fascinating insights into the emirate's past. For adventure seekers, the dramatic Jebel Jais mountainscapes provide endless opportunities for hiking, climbing and thrilling outdoor pursuits.

Where to stay: Retreat to a private peninsula fringed by golden sands at Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort, just a one-hour drive from Dubai. Adventure abounds with exhilarating water sports, mangrove explorations and excursions to nearby attractions. After dusk indulge in delectable culinary journeys with flavours from around the world. And at the end of each day, luxurious and eco-friendly accommodations await, including the emirate’s first overwater villas.