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It’s a smart idea to make use of summer hotel deals to bag a local weekend away, but this year, you don’t even have to wait until August. We’ve already started our weekend tour by spending a lazy Friday and Saturday at Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City. Until April 30, loyalty members get one night free for every two nights they stay at any Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn or Holiday Inn Express property in the world.

While much of the Festival City complex is still a work in progress, the two hotels, shopping centre and Creek promenade have become one of the city’s best new locations in recent months. Plus, the Belgian Beer Café is just downstairs, and our Time Out Restaurant Awards winner, Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire, is next door. We figure if you’re saving money on the room, you might as well splash out on the food.

Together with the surprisingly atmospheric shopping centre – outside walkways are always a bonus – you’ve got the makings of a great 48 hours. At least that’s what we thought as we lolled in the outdoor, fifth-floor jacuzzi, looking out over the entire city.
Crowne Plaza Festival City 04 701 2222 . www.priorityclub.com/freenight to sign up to the loyalty scheme