No matter the weather, I always pack a bathing suit when traveling. There is something so wonderful about swimming the waters in a new destination. If I can’t jump in the sea or in a river, I always try to hit the hotel swimming pool. Some resorts have pools so brilliantly situated that they linger in memory for years afterwards. Here are some of my favorites.
Mövenpick Dead Sea in Jordan. Since the days of Cleopatra, the Dead Sea has been appreciated as a natural spa—its mineral-rich water full of healing properties. The next best thing to floating in it is swimming in a pool overlooking it. At the Mövenpick’s Zara Spa, the horizon-edge pool seems to merge into the waters of the Dead Sea far below.
Shangri-La Hotel Abu Dhabi. Situated in the Qaryat Al Beri complex, the Shangri-La Hotel in Abu Dhabi has views of the fantastical Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque across the water. From the hotel’s turquoise infinity pool, you can float while gazing at the gleaming mosque.
Chateau de Vault de Lugny. At this regal castle hotel in Burgundy’s wine country, the pool is located in the vaulted cellar. It glows turquoise beneath ancient stone walls.
Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat. The Olympic sized pool at this exclusive palace hotel on the French Riviera is accessed by a glass funicular that’s air-conditioned. This is where famous swim instructor Pierre Gruneberg has taught generations of visitors to swim, including celebrities and Picasso’s kids. The Club Dauphin is not exclusive to hotel guests—you can pay for day access.
