Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value

Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Al Badayer Retreat Desert Resort Dubai Converting 15,000 IHG Points Per Night

The Al Badayer Retreat, nestled in the Sharjah desert near Dubai, presents an interesting value proposition for IHG Rewards Club members. For just 15,000 points a night, you can immerse yourself in a desert oasis inspired by traditional caravanserais. The resort blends luxury with a unique atmosphere, offering choices ranging from private tents to more traditional accommodations. It seems to be popular with families and couples seeking a change of pace. The resort received some accolades, winning a World Luxury Hotel Award a few years ago, and includes a pool and fitness center amongst its facilities. The location, a 45-minute drive from Dubai, positions it as a convenient escape for those seeking respite from the city's frenetic energy. Adventurous travelers will appreciate the opportunity to experience activities like paragliding, adding another dimension to the desert retreat. While the resort is highly rated by guests, whether it consistently delivers value at 15,000 points per night is ultimately subjective, based on one's own travel priorities and comparison with other redemption options.

Al Badayer Retreat Desert Resort, built with a distinct Bedouin-inspired aesthetic, offers a fascinating blend of historical design and contemporary engineering solutions in its tent accommodations. It's interesting to see how architects have integrated design elements that optimize comfort in the harsh desert environment.

Redeeming just 15,000 IHG Rewards Club points per night grants access to this retreat, which is cleverly designed to cope with the desert climate. The architects have clearly considered ways to mitigate the heat, enhancing guest experience while upholding an attractive visual style.

Located just a short drive outside Dubai, the retreat provides a peaceful respite from the city. Research has repeatedly shown that even brief exposure to quiet, natural environments can improve mental health, making this a particularly appealing getaway option.

Each tent has been designed with excellent natural ventilation in mind. Engineers have long studied ways to use natural airflow in hot climates, and the designs here seem to effectively implement these principles. It’s intriguing how such a concept combines modern architecture and traditional approaches to climate control.

The landscape around the resort includes expansive red sand dunes, a visually captivating and geologically intriguing feature. The iron oxide content in the sand creates the unique color, and it's not uncommon to see geomorphologists here who are particularly interested in how wind patterns shape the sand dunes over time.

The culinary focus of the retreat is on locally-sourced ingredients. There are compelling studies that indicate the health benefits of a diet that centers around local and seasonal foods, and the resort's menu seems to acknowledge that. Plus, there’s a clear advantage for supporting local farmers.

Beyond the culinary aspect, the resort promotes desert excursions like camel riding and dune bashing. These activities are not only enjoyable, but also offer the chance to learn about the desert ecosystem and its unique flora and fauna. This aspect aligns nicely with a greater appreciation for desert environments that encourages scientific study.

Solar energy plays a significant role in the resort's operations. This echoes a growing trend in hospitality, where reliance on renewable sources is increasing. Research indicates that using sustainable sources can improve both operational efficiency and the overall guest experience.

Earning IHG points offers advantages to frequent travelers, especially through airline partnerships. This interconnection in the travel industry is fascinating, highlighting how a little planning and understanding can help travelers maximize the value of their trips.

The resort's secluded location provides exceptional views of the night sky. Studies on light pollution confirm that desert environments offer some of the best conditions for astronomical observation, making this ideal for individuals with an interest in the cosmos, regardless of their level of expertise.

What else is in this post?

1. Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Al Badayer Retreat Desert Resort Dubai Converting 15,000 IHG Points Per Night
2. Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Qasr Al Sarab Abu Dhabi Using 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy Points
3. Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Marriott Dead Sea Resort Jordan Available at 50,000 Points During Off Season
4. Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Desert Palm Dubai PER AQUUM Trading 65,000 Hyatt Points
5. Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Hilton Al Maha Desert Resort Converting 120,000 Hilton Honors Points
6. Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Desert Nights Camp Oman Using 35,000 Accor Live Limitless Points
7. Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Six Senses Shaharut Israel Bookable at 95,000 IHG Points

Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Qasr Al Sarab Abu Dhabi Using 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy Points

Qasr Al Sarab, nestled in the Liwa Oasis outside Abu Dhabi, provides a captivating desert escape. Reaching it is a scenic two-hour drive from Abu Dhabi city, placing it within a reasonable distance while retaining a sense of remoteness. For 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points, you can experience its luxury accommodations and enjoy the all-inclusive option. The resort excels in creating unique experiences, with activities like camel rides, stargazing and cultural excursions. This helps you better appreciate the rich local traditions and history. While the service is regarded as excellent, reflecting the Anantara brand's standards, the amenities are top-notch, featuring private villas, pools, and a range of restaurants. It’s clearly a popular choice for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

However, one should always consider if the 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points represent the most sensible use of your points. There are numerous other redemption options to consider, particularly when it comes to maximizing your points. This is important when points are scarce or represent a valuable resource. You have to critically assess the various uses of points before making any decisions. The desert environment is spectacular, with its endless dunes. Beyond relaxation and luxury, this also creates great conditions to observe the night sky which can be a great draw for some travelers. It remains to be seen if this consistently delivers value relative to other hotel rewards programs at this point level.

Qasr Al Sarab, nestled within the Liwa Oasis near Abu Dhabi, presents a fascinating example of a high-end desert resort. Its location near the Rub' al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter, provides a sense of seclusion and adventure, making it appealing for those who crave a unique experience. The resort itself is a marvel of design, incorporating traditional Arabian architectural elements with modern engineering solutions to create a luxurious environment amidst the dunes.

The expansive pool, spanning over 1,500 square meters, is a testament to the ingenuity used to manage water and heat in the desert climate. This vast expanse of water not only provides a refreshing escape for guests but also stands as a reminder of the intricate planning that goes into managing resources in an arid environment. The resort's structure is thoughtfully designed to cope with the extreme temperature fluctuations common in desert regions. Architects have employed principles of thermal mass to help regulate temperatures inside the buildings, keeping guests comfortable despite the heat.

The surrounding landscape is just as intriguing as the resort itself. The Liwa Oasis, with its towering sand dunes – some reaching heights over 250 meters – is a haven for geologists and adventure enthusiasts alike. It is fascinating to consider how the forces of nature, particularly wind, have shaped this unique topography over time. The culinary offerings at Qasr Al Sarab also reflect the region's culture and local resources. Dishes feature authentic Emirati cuisine, with a focus on traditional cooking methods. This approach to dining not only provides flavorful meals but also highlights the potential health benefits of using local spices, some of which have known anti-inflammatory properties.

A stay at Qasr Al Sarab can be secured with 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points, allowing access to their luxurious villas with private plunge pools. This level of opulence naturally raises questions regarding the sustainability of such luxury in a desert environment, particularly the management of water resources in an arid region. The resort, however, seems to address these concerns through its sophisticated water management systems that recycle and treat water for non-potable uses, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding environment. The region around the resort is also surprisingly diverse ecologically. Guests can spot wildlife such as Arabian oryx and sand gazelles, which are fascinating to observe and highlight the biodiversity found in desert ecosystems.


The resort also offers various health and wellness activities, including stargazing, which utilizes the naturally dark skies of the desert. The opportunity to witness the cosmos in its entirety, far from urban light pollution, can have a positive impact on mental well-being. Additionally, Qasr Al Sarab provides cultural experiences like traditional falconry displays, showcasing the region’s heritage and offering a glimpse into a highly skilled practice.

Qasr Al Sarab's commitment to sustainability is further highlighted by its utilization of modern energy management systems, including solar panels. These efforts contribute to a larger conversation surrounding environmental responsibility within the hospitality industry, illustrating how luxury and sustainability can coexist. The resort provides a glimpse into how meticulous planning, design, and engineering can create exceptional travel experiences within even the most challenging environments.

Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Marriott Dead Sea Resort Jordan Available at 50,000 Points During Off Season

The Marriott Dead Sea Resort in Jordan offers an intriguing option for Marriott Bonvoy members seeking a point-based getaway. During the off-season, it's possible to snag a stay for just 50,000 points, making it a potentially attractive deal. This 5-star resort provides a solid range of facilities suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers. Whether you're looking for culinary variety, spa treatments, or simply unwinding by the pool, the resort has something to offer. There are both indoor and outdoor pools, and the resort caters to families with a dedicated play area called "The Jungle". Its location, close to the Dead Sea, offers stunning scenery.

However, as with any points redemption, it's important to evaluate if the 50,000-point price tag represents a smart use of your points compared to other travel possibilities. While the resort has a good reputation and is highly-rated for its location, it's crucial to ensure this redemption aligns with your personal travel priorities. The quality of the experience, the amenities, and the overall value are subjective based on your individual preferences.

The Marriott Dead Sea Resort in Jordan presents an intriguing opportunity for Marriott Bonvoy members, particularly during the off-season when it's available for 50,000 points per night. This point cost can translate to a potentially high value, potentially exceeding the usual range of point values seen in hotel programs. It's worth considering for travelers looking to maximize their rewards.

The resort's location at the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, offers a unique perspective on geology and ecosystems. The high salinity of the water, exceeding 20 times that of the ocean, creates a remarkable environment. Scientists and researchers are drawn to study the salt crystal formations and the resulting ecosystems. The Dead Sea is also celebrated for its therapeutic mud, rich in minerals like magnesium and potassium, which may have skincare benefits. Wellness-minded travelers may appreciate the resort's spa offerings related to this.


The historical significance of the region shouldn't be overlooked. The Dead Sea area has yielded important archaeological finds, including the Qumran Caves and the Dead Sea Scrolls. It's a region of ongoing discovery and provides a fascinating connection to the past for history enthusiasts. The unique atmospheric conditions at the Dead Sea, stemming from the high pressure and low allergens, are a subject of scientific study, particularly in relation to respiratory health.

The resort itself seems well-equipped with standard amenities including pools and a children's area, which seems to indicate the hotel targets family-oriented travelers. Beyond its main resort functions, it provides a base for exploration. For example, Petra, a significant archaeological site and one of the New7Wonders of the World, is a reasonable drive away. It would be a good option for a multi-day trip exploring both relaxing and cultural attractions.

It's fascinating to see how the resort's dining options incorporate local Jordanian cuisine, featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. It's an area where travelers can gain insights into local culinary customs. This region is particularly understudied compared to other regions in Jordan. Archaeological work here is ongoing. The resort appears to provide access to a "living museum" that can appeal to travelers with an interest in archaeology or history.

While the resort has positive reviews, travelers should be mindful that it's about a 37-mile drive from Sowayma, Jordan. This might not be ideal for anyone looking for an urban environment close to the resort. It's ultimately up to the individual to determine whether the Dead Sea Marriott Resort represents a good value and if it aligns with their travel preferences.

Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Desert Palm Dubai PER AQUUM Trading 65,000 Hyatt Points

Desert Palm Dubai, a member of the Melia Collection, presents an interesting opportunity for Hyatt World of Hyatt members seeking a unique desert escape. For 65,000 points a night, you can access this luxurious, smaller resort situated on a private polo estate. The estate features four expansive polo fields and the hotel's accommodations range from standard rooms to larger suites and even private villas with their own pools. The culinary experience here is highlighted by two award-winning restaurants, RARE and Epicure, and the resort also boasts a spa that has received global recognition. While generally well-regarded by guests, some reviews mention disappointments in specific aspects of the hotel's amenities, including the quality of the robes provided in the rooms.

Desert Palm Dubai caters to travelers seeking both luxury and a more intimate resort experience. This makes it stand out compared to larger, more conventional all-inclusive options. Whether or not it ultimately represents a valuable use of World of Hyatt points is dependent on an individual's travel priorities, needs, and comparison with other point redemption options, but it certainly presents a tempting alternative for a more secluded desert vacation.

Desert Palm Dubai PER AQUUM, demanding 65,000 Hyatt points per night, presents a compelling yet expensive proposition within the Hyatt portfolio. It's crucial to consider whether this redemption surpasses other luxury options available for fewer points, ensuring a truly worthwhile experience.

The resort's design incorporates advanced insulation materials to tackle Dubai's intense heat. Research shows that materials with high thermal mass can significantly decrease energy use, demonstrating the engineering principles underpinning comfortable accommodations in a harsh climate.

Desert Palm's landscaping is a feat of engineering, employing a complex irrigation system drawing water from local aquifers. This highlights the ingenuity needed to cultivate lush greenery in arid areas, underscoring how careful water management is fundamental in desert constructions.

One notable aspect of Desert Palm is its focus on equestrian experiences, including a state-of-the-art equestrian center. This isn't just a guest amenity, it also reflects the application of extensive research in animal behavior and training to maintain high animal welfare standards.

Wellness practices are intertwined with local customs within the resort's offerings. Research suggests that spa and wellness amenities have a positive impact on mental health, making it an attractive feature for travelers prioritizing relaxation and well-being.

The remote location is ideal for stargazing, as studies confirm that light pollution is greatly reduced in desert environments. This aspect might entice guests with an interest in astronomy, allowing for a deeper connection with the cosmos.

Desert Palm emphasizes farm-to-table dining, collaborating with nearby farms to source ingredients. Scientific studies indicate a link between locally-sourced diets and improved health outcomes, aligning with current wellness trends in the hospitality industry.

The resort integrates Emirati cultural heritage into its activities, offering workshops and experiences. Research on the cognitive benefits of engaging with local culture indicates that such initiatives can enhance travelers' understanding and appreciation of their surroundings.

Sustainable water management is a strong point, with the resort implementing advanced recycling systems. This showcases how luxury accommodations can leverage innovative engineering to optimize resource use. This approach is crucial in desert settings where preserving water resources is critical.

Desert Palm's location near Dubai is a unique advantage, offering a tranquil escape while also providing easy access to the city's attractions. Proximity to urban centers has been shown to enhance a resort's appeal, as guests can effectively balance relaxation with urban exploration.

Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Hilton Al Maha Desert Resort Converting 120,000 Hilton Honors Points

The Hilton Al Maha Desert Resort, nestled within Dubai's conservation reserve, presents a tempting all-inclusive getaway for those using Hilton Honors points. At 120,000 points per stay, guests receive lodging, meals, and two daily desert activities. While the point cost might seem steep, favorable reviews highlight the resort's high-quality service and its immersive cultural experiences. But, travelers should weigh whether the value matches their travel preferences, particularly considering the resort's limited dining options within the all-inclusive package. Essentially, the Al Maha offers a unique chance to embrace the grandeur of the desert landscape, yet whether it's a worthwhile use of points depends on your individual expectations for luxury and amenities. The all-inclusive aspect can make budgeting easy, however, you should assess the value relative to other Hilton hotel stays. It's owned by Emirates and a former Starwood Luxury Collection property, which gives you a hint of the caliber of service and experiences you might expect.
The Hilton Al Maha Desert Resort, nestled within Dubai's Desert Conservation Reserve, presents an intriguing case study in desert hospitality. Located about 50 minutes from Dubai's airport, it's a destination that's both accessible and remote. Redeeming 120,000 Hilton Honors points for a stay can often be a good use of points, especially given the typical high nightly rates which can easily surpass $1,200. This suggests a redemption value of a cent or more per point, which is quite competitive when comparing Hilton to other programs.

The resort is a unique destination, situated within a protected environment where native desert species like the Arabian oryx are conserved. This makes it a destination that's interesting from an ecotourism and desert ecology preservation viewpoint. The villas themselves are fascinating from an architectural standpoint, blending traditional Arabian design elements with modern engineering techniques. Features like shaded courtyards and natural ventilation are central to creating a comfortable experience in a location with harsh climate extremes.

The resort also focuses on providing guests with highly personalized experiences. Private pools and activities like sand dune excursions reflect the general trend towards individualizing travel experiences, something that research has shown can improve satisfaction and create lasting memories. Furthermore, the spa utilizes ingredients from the local ecosystem, such as ghaf tree oil and minerals, adding an interesting element that links wellness to local traditions and knowledge.

The dining experience at the resort emphasizes locally-sourced ingredients, an element with interesting ties to current health trends. Using regional produce, and reducing transportation distances, aligns with a growing body of research suggesting potential benefits for both the environment and human health. Beyond culinary offerings, guests can immerse themselves in Emirati culture through activities like falconry and traditional Bedouin storytelling. The connection between travel and cultural learning has been a subject of numerous studies that highlight the enriching aspects of this form of engagement.

The resort's remote setting means the night sky offers some of the best conditions for astronomical observations globally. It's an ideal location for stargazing, a type of tourism that research suggests can be significantly enhanced in environments with limited light pollution. The environment also highlights some of the challenges related to water conservation and management in arid environments. The resort has adopted innovative strategies to mitigate resource use, a good example for the larger topic of water scarcity seen around the world.

The resort's architecture also utilizes passive temperature regulation techniques, such as integrating thermal mass materials. These techniques help reduce reliance on traditional air conditioning systems. This aligns with contemporary architectural thinking around energy efficiency and climate responsiveness. It's an interesting demonstration of how design can contribute to a more sustainable hospitality sector.

Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Desert Nights Camp Oman Using 35,000 Accor Live Limitless Points

Desert Nights Camp, Oman's only luxury desert camp, offers a unique experience within the stunning Wahiba Desert. Located a two-hour drive from Muscat, the camp covers ten acres of desert landscape and provides a range of accommodations, including traditional Bedouin-style tents and more contemporary pool villas. This mix of options caters to a variety of preferences, allowing visitors to fully embrace the Omani culture and environment. Activities at the camp are designed to showcase the beauty of the desert, including complimentary 4x4 rides to the dunes for sunset views with snacks and drinks. You get a sense that the camp tries to blend a modern level of comfort with the more traditional aspects of Bedouin life. Accor Live Limitless members can access this experience for 35,000 points per night, which could represent a strong value proposition for travelers. However, as with any point redemption, it’s important to evaluate whether this particular redemption delivers on your travel priorities. It's easy to be lured by the idea of a "luxury desert camp," but the experience itself and the value it provides can be highly subjective. You should evaluate the various redemption possibilities within the Accor Live Limitless program before settling on this particular resort.

Desert Nights Camp in Oman, the sole luxury desert camp in the country, offers a compelling proposition for Accor Live Limitless members looking to maximize their points. Redeeming 35,000 points per night can provide a decent return, especially when considering that cash rates for similar desert accommodations are often significantly higher. This suggests a potential value of roughly 0.014 per point, a figure that compares favorably to other hotel reward programs.

Located about a two-hour drive from Muscat, the camp is nestled in the Wahiba Desert, an area known for its striking landscape of craggy mountains, towering sand dunes, and intricate wadis. This is a geologically diverse region where wind erosion has been carving unique formations for ages. It's a fascinating area that attracts scientists, especially those interested in the dynamic shaping of desert landscapes.


The accommodations at Desert Nights Camp range from traditional Bedouin-style tents, designed with excellent ventilation to mitigate the desert heat, to more modern options like pool villas. These tent designs are rooted in the architectural principles used by the Bedouin for centuries and offer a glimpse into how historical structures can be both comfortable and environmentally conscious.

The camp's location on the edge of the Wahiba Sands provides easy access to a diverse range of desert ecosystems and wildlife. It’s a chance to observe native species like the Arabian Oryx, an animal remarkably adapted to survive in this harsh environment. Wildlife researchers and ecologists will find this environment particularly intriguing.


Beyond simply relaxing, guests can take advantage of the camp's desert excursions. These provide an opportunity not just to enjoy the adrenaline of dune bashing, but to also learn more about the intricate processes that shape the desert's geology. Observing the impact of wind and water on the landscape helps understand larger-scale geological and environmental processes that are being studied in the field of environmental science.


The remote location makes for excellent stargazing, a feature that's increasingly attractive to travelers. Research shows that dark, desert skies offer the best conditions to observe celestial events, something that appeals to amateur and experienced astronomers alike.

The food served at Desert Nights Camp emphasizes regional ingredients. Studies consistently demonstrate that incorporating locally-sourced foods into one's diet has many health benefits. By focusing on the locally available ingredients, the camp subtly underscores the interconnectedness of human health with the immediate environment and agricultural practices.


The camp is also committed to water conservation, using innovative techniques to manage this vital resource. In this arid environment, water conservation becomes a crucial concern, highlighting the need for practical design solutions. This aspect demonstrates how resort design can adapt to environmental challenges while maintaining luxury.

In a landscape of ever-growing demand for authentic travel experiences, the camp thrives as a luxury desert option. It has a significant impact on the economy of the region. It’s a compelling example of how targeted travel tourism can stimulate both local economies and stimulate growth in specialized sectors like luxury hospitality.


Additionally, the camp acts as a sort of bridge to the past, serving as a point of access to ancient trade routes that crisscrossed the region centuries ago. Researching these historical pathways helps paint a more complete picture of the sociocultural exchanges that shaped societies in the region and continues to provide valuable insights for scholars in archaeology and anthropology.


While Desert Nights Camp might not be the perfect fit for everyone, it undeniably provides a unique, enriching experience. If you are looking for a point-based redemption that balances a taste of traditional Omani culture and the unique beauty of the desert, it's worth considering.

Top 7 Lesser-Known All-Inclusive Desert Resorts Converting Points for Maximum Value - Six Senses Shaharut Israel Bookable at 95,000 IHG Points

Six Senses Shaharut, nestled in Israel's Arava Valley, presents a luxurious desert retreat with a strong emphasis on wellness. Opened in 2021, it offers 60 suites and pool villas spread across a 46-acre desert landscape. This relatively new resort can be booked for 95,000 IHG Rewards points per night, providing access to amenities such as an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a spa. The spa's focus integrates the "Sleep With Six Senses" program, developed in collaboration with renowned sleep expert Dr. Michael Breus. Reviews suggest the resort's ambiance and services are generally well-regarded by guests. However, discerning travelers should consider whether a 95,000-point redemption for this resort represents optimal value compared to other options in the desert landscape, given the range of comparable experiences at other resorts.

Six Senses Shaharut, nestled in Israel's Arava Valley just south of the Negev Desert, presents an intriguing option for IHG Rewards members. It can be booked using 95,000 points per night, a price point that requires careful consideration given the range of options within the IHG program. Spread across 46 acres, the resort features 60 suites and villas, offering a relatively intimate experience compared to larger resorts in the area. Amenities include the standard pool and fitness center, plus a sauna and bar. All accommodations include modern features like air conditioning, coffee makers, and flat-screen TVs.

The resort's design incorporates luxury with a strong focus on wellness. One example is the "Sleep With Six Senses" standard, developed with the help of a sleep expert. The hotel also has a full Six Senses spa. This particular emphasis on sleep and relaxation seems to be in line with the larger trend of emphasizing mental wellness during travel. Guests can immerse themselves in the region's natural environment, experiencing diverse wildlife including the Nubian ibex. The resort also offers culinary experiences highlighting locally sourced ingredients grown on site and at nearby farms. This is a trend that's worth studying for any engineers looking into more sustainable hospitality. The area itself is a hotbed of geological research, due to its ancient formations. The design of the resort itself seems to be tailored towards mitigating the effects of the hot, dry desert climate using building materials and techniques that engineers might find interesting.


Six Senses Shaharut opened relatively recently in 2021, and while it received a respectable 4 out of 5 stars on Tripadvisor, based on 94 reviews, its long-term performance remains to be seen. It's certainly positioned to attract travelers interested in wellness and geological history, but given the high point cost, it's wise to compare this against other redemption options before deciding if a stay here is a good use of your IHG Rewards points. It's a testament to the innovative nature of hospitality that such a luxurious resort can be built and maintained in a desert region with its own unique set of challenges. The Negev Desert, the surrounding area, and the hotel itself seem to be a place where modern design, sustainability, and the study of natural systems intersect. Whether or not it will eventually become a destination that delivers value commensurate with the 95,000 point cost remains to be seen.