Summer getaways she’ll never expect

If you’re taking her away this summer there are three keys to her heart; spare no expense, leave no stone unturned and make it a heart stopping surprise. Your generosity, thoughtfulness and ability to keep a secret won’t go unnoticed, so this summer, we’ve done the hard work for you.

BURMA’S MERGUI ARCHIPELAGO

Where to go?

The Mergui Archipelago has, like much of Burma, been off limits since the end of the Second World War. Explore the untouched paradisiacal islands by starting at Kawthaung, which convenientely has an airport. Make sure to visit Bo Cho, a small idyllic island across a narrow channel from Lampu National Park and 115 island, a remote rock fenced by pristine beaches covered in giant clams and shells with crystal clear green blue water on every side. Adventuring treks through the jungle lead to unexplored slithers of beach beyond her wildest dreams.

Where to eat?

There isn’t much but as long as you are exceedingly polite and respectful the normally frosty locals with make sure you’re catered for with impossibly fresh local secret recipes.

What to do?

Make sure to be on a boat, of which you can swim, dive and explore. As a truly untouched part of the world full of untold stories there is ample opportunity for photography or cultural exploration of a novel quality that you’ll never have experienced.

How to get there?

Abercrombie & Kent offers a 12-night Burma trip from £3,865 per person, full board, including a nine-night Mergui Archipelago cruise and flights.

PANAMA

Where to stay?

The Canopy Tower in the Soberania National Park is a retired industrial building which towers over the jungle roof, its spectacular views and the contrast of its rough exterior with its interior luxury, is sure to leave you spellbound. If that doesn’t take your fancy then the magical small boutique island eco resort of Cala Mia definitely will, at the head of a fairytale island running into the Pacific Ocean, with his and hers bathrooms in its high-end bungalows full of locally handcrafted furniture.

What to do?

On the coast and in the unspoiled Marine Park there is ample opportunity to sport fish, scuba-dive and surf; or simply swim. Whilst further inland you can roam the jungle and, if you’re up to it, face the white water rapids which will be in full flow over the summer.

Where to eat?

For the drinks: Café de Asis occupies a hip old corner of the old town in a nostalgically whitewashed, balconied building that faces onto the prettiest little town square. Its homemade and potent secret-recipe sangria partners the best rums in the world behind the bar.

For the stars: La Cases del Marisco?has a reputation as one of the finest restaurants in the country, serving high-end seafood dishes that come with a price tag, and is littered with local celebrities.

For the locals: Restaurant Mercado del Marsico sits above the capital’s revered seafood market and has arguably the best selection of fish in the world serving everything from corvina, octopus, squid and shrimp to lobster and tropical king crab.

British Airways fly from London Heathrow to Panama from £684 one way

JORDAN

Where to stay?

For a trip to the mountains be sure to book into the Evason Ma’in Hot Springs, where you can treat her to the spa treatment of a lifetime. But before you do, take her to the King Aretas Camp in the National Reserve of the legendary Wadi Rum and fall asleep surrounded by the rustic orange sands of the desert and protected by the huge sandstone mountains, which you’re free to explore during the day.

Where to eat?

For the reputation: Fakhr El-Din, one of Jordan’s most celebrated restaurants is known for its ancient architecture and fine Lebanese cuisine, and its royal clientele.

For the secret: Find a table on the vaulted top floor of theHaret Jdoudna or snuggle up in one of the cosy private rooms, order local specialties such as grilled chicken with pine nuts and take the advice of the waiter for a night that she’ll never forget.

What to do?

Explore the desert on quad bikes or delve into Petra, one of the wonders of the world, and let the richness of the countries cultural history envelop you.

British Airways fly from London Heathrow to Amman from £226 one way

Montreux Jazz Festival

What to do:

The Montreux Jazz Festival is one of the most evocative names on the worlds cultural calendar visited by musicians such as played by Miles Davis, Carlos Santana and, this year, Arcade Fire. Get unlimited access to all the concert halls throughout the Festival and enjoy exclusive privileges such as a reserved table in the Montreux Jazz Club, exclusive access to star-studded garden parties and a concierge service to shoulder the logistics. Prices are upon request from The Montreux Jazz Festival.

Where to eat:

For the local feel: The one of a kind Restaurant du Pont serves local Swiss cuisine in a charming corner of the old town, its authentic feel and no nonsense brilliance is guaranteed to be a hit with your other half.

For the awards: If she’s a lover of Michelin starred gastronomy then a visit to Le Pont de Brent, winner of not one but two Michelin stars, is sure to be a winner.

Where to stay:

Enjoy a stunning vista of Lake Geneva with a backdrop of the Alps from your room at the Fairmont de Montreux Palace, the legendary service coupled with long walks in its expansive and meticulously kept gardens make for a five star getaway to remember.

British Airways fly from London Heathrow to Geneva from £78 one way