The ultimate summer escape package in Dubai

If you are going to take a summer weekend break in Dubai then the 'More than a Table for Two' package at the Ritz-Carlton is at the top of the scale as the ultimate summer escape deal.

For those that do not know the Ritz-Carlton Dubai, this low-level Mediterranean property is located on a 350-metre stretch of the Jumeirah beach front, and is almost a boutique hotel with just 138 rooms complemented by 320 multi-lingual staff.

The hotel itself exudes good taste and understated opulence. Its attention to detail is superb, from the head-cushion in the bath to a shoe polish hidden where you might expect to find it. With the summer promotion's 'More than a Table for Two' there is the added luxury of an Executive Suite.

With two bathrooms and your own sitting room, this gives ample space to chill out, and perhaps indulge in a rose petal bath. It need not get crowded as there is one bath per person available. The package also includes dinner for two in the suite.

A few days before your arrival, a gentleman will call to arrange the menu, and so all will be right on the night. Alternatively the La Baie signature European restaurant is arguably the best in its category in Dubai, or there is the contemporary Italian restaurant Splendido. Needless to say expert help with beverage selection is on hand, and the possibilities are considerable.

A late afternoon Devonshire tea in the cavernous Lobby Lounge is to be recommended while you explore the hotel; and the Library and Cigar Room are great places to gather for cocktails or after dinner drinks.

The next day you might care to linger in your Executive Suite as continental breakfast in bed in part of the deal. Or head to the swimming pools before the sun gets too hot. There are three to choose from, one flowing like a river from a waterfall. Or burn off the excess of the night before in the well-equipped gymnasium.

For the less energetic a visit to the Balinese-inspired Spa is a must with over 40 different treatments from which to choose. What better way to refresh a jaded Gulf worker in the middle of summer? There are two ladies-only treatment rooms for beauty treatments in complete privacy.

I remember once meeting a lady correspondent from the London Times who spent an entire week recuperating from three months in Afghanistan at the Ritz Carlton Dubai. She spent many hours in the spa expunging the memory of Kabul.

But perhaps the final word should be saved for the ever-present smiling Ladies and Gentlemen of the Ritz-Carlton, a superbly motivated staff whose strenuous efforts to ensure your comfort and pleasure are actually most relaxing! This is very much luxury a la carte and highly recommended by this writer.