From blockbuster movies to new series on streaming services, gladiators are having a moment.
And guests of Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, perched atop the Eternal City, will find an immersive, historic—and incredibly photographable—experience, when they book the hotel’s unique Gladiator Training Experience.
The hotel partners with combat instructors from Rome’s Gladiator School and training takes place there on the grounds of Rome Cavalieri. Each participant dresses in full gladiator kit, wearing a traditional tunic, Roman sandals, a belt, and protective gloves, while wielding a wooden training sword. Experts teach the difference between different gladiator styles of combat, including Gallus, Thracian, and Provocatores.
Sneak a peek into the experience:
According to Instructor Sina Hamidy, who hosts classes for kids and adults, the gladiator experience is a real-life history lesson.
“It’s not only a practical course, we also provide explanations about the real history of Rome,” Hamidy said. “It is important to know how this city was born, how it came to be what it is today, and how we should preserve it. That is our main goal.”
According to Hamidy, the reality of gladiator fighting is often surprising to participants.
“We might know something about it thanks to movies and the media, but history is often more complex than portrayed. Through this activity, we try to provide a fresh and clearer understanding of who the gladiators truly were,” Hamidy said, adding, “they were regarded as superheroes.”
Whether you’re planning an extended vacation or a quick getaway, it’s essential to make the most out of your stay by choosing a great hotel in your dream destination. While some hotels may serve as a place to sleep after a day of exploring, others are destinations in themselves, becoming a place where travelers can enjoy a full vacation, without even leaving the property.
In fact, a recent Hilton survey found that 58% of respondents built their vacations around a specific destination hotel. When life is go, go, go and you are looking for a hotel that is your ultimate destination, it matters where you stay. So, as you plan your upcoming trip this year, here are seven dreamy destination hotels that will make your next getaway unforgettable, even if you never leave the hotel’s pool.
Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton
Scottsdale, Arizona
Few resorts in the world can match the extraordinary natural setting of this luxury desert hideaway nestled in the lush Sonoran Desert. Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton, provides a luxurious, peaceful getaway with activities that transcend traditional resort offerings. Challenge yourself and others on the sun-splashed terrain of the two world-class golf courses or play on the cushioned courts to learn tennis and pickleball from an on-site professional. Enjoy outdoor adventures such as rock climbing, guided desert hikes, mountain biking, horseback riding, nature and wildlife tours and stargazing with a professional astronomer. After a fun-filled day, unwind in one of four sparkling outdoor swimming pools or visit the legendary wellness spa to relax and recharge.
Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
Maui
Escape to this island oasis filled with bright rooms and villas set within the lush gardens along the Wailea Beach shoreline of Maui. Set in a sophisticated destination, Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort will give you the chance to soak in tranquil sunsets from a private lanai, cool off in any of its five exhilarating pools, embrace long-lasting cultural experiences and sample traditional Hawaiian flavors at unparalleled indoor/outdoor restaurants and lounges. You can also indulge in a variety of experiences, such as paddling down the coast of Maui or unwinding with personalized treatments at the resort’s luxurious spa. Start your mornings with energizing yoga sessions on the top-rated Wailea beach or visit the state-of-the-art fitness center featuring Peloton bikes, Tonal and Technogym equipment, as well as daily fitness classes.
Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa
Jamaica
You and your family can have it all at Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa, an all-inclusive beachfront paradise spanning 400 tropical acres along the Caribbean coast. Spend breezy days at the water park with free private cabanas, three secluded whirlpools, live music, a kids’ zone and more; or grab a lounge chair and relax on the private white-sand beach to watch the waves and feel the warm breeze off the sea. Golfers will feel like champions on the 18-hole Cinnamon Hill course that offers smooth fairways, while others can engage in watersports and family-friendly activities such as treasure hunts, Kiddie Karaoke and boat rides. After a day of exploration at Montego Bay Marine Park or a day trip to Dunn’s River Falls, satisfy your food cravings at any of the 11 onsite dining areas, also included in your stay.
Hilton Los Cabos
Mexico
An unforgettable stay awaits at Hilton Los Cabos with sun, sand and golf all merged into one. Take in breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez, the energy of the Enclave Beach Club, one of the sparkling infinity pools and the world-class cuisine and cocktail programming on property. Guests can cozy up in beachfront bungalows and relaxing poolside cabanas or take part in the hotel’s fun excursions, such as dolphin encounters, camel rides, scuba diving, whale watching, sea turtle spawning and more. If that’s not enough, you can also take the perfect selfie that’s Instagram-worthy under the landmark Arch rock formation for which Los Cabos is known.
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
Maldives
An island hideaway in the Maldives surrounded by white sands and crystal blue waters of the Indian Ocean awaits guests searching for the ultimate luxury getaway. At Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, you can enjoy 11 celebrated dining venues, a world-class lifestyle spa sanctuary, and distinctive activities every generation can enjoy while experiencing this tropical paradise. Whether you’re embarking on a thrilling adventure as you cruise on luxury yachts and soak up the sun from stunning sand backs or participating in intriguing and educational activities at Stars Club or Club Nova, there’s something for every member of the family. Guests can also give back to the community by adopting a coral frame from the coral conservation to help restore the beauty of the ocean and aid in its preservation.
DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai - Jumeirah Beach
Dubai
Settled on a private stretch of the beach along Dubai’s waterfront promenade, The Walk, DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai - Jumeirah Beach is a destination getaway with beachfront vistas seen right from your guest room window. If you’re looking to completely unplug and relax, visit the Breakwater Wellness Center, which provides massages, facials and scrubs along with a fitness center, sauna, aroma steam room and Jacuzzi to help you de-stress to the max. Once you are fully reinvigorated, you can enjoy authentic cuisine at the Gastro Kitchen, then enjoy your favorite beverages at AERIA Beach Bar & Grill, overlooking the infinity pool and beach.
Higueron Hotel Malaga, Curio Collection by Hilton
Spain
Known as the essence of the Mediterranean in Costa del Sol, Higueron Hotel Malaga, Curio Collection by Hilton was designed for guests ages 16 and older. With an infinity pool seemingly spilling directly into the Mediterranean Sea, you can balance your day between relaxation at the Higueron Beach Club, rejuvenation at the Higueron Spa or energization at the Higueron Sports Club. The exclusive environment provides the perfect combination of outdoor facilities with tennis courts, basketball courts, and sand courts for beach volleyball and engaging personalized group activities such as Zumba, spinning or Pilates. After working up an appetite, you can enjoy an eclectic variety of onsite cuisines and bars, including meals from Michelin-starred chef Diego Gallegos in Sollo and a taste of Andalusia in Chupadeo.
Tags: gladiator experience, Rome Cavalieri, Sina Hamidy, Hilton
