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Wednesday, June 6, 2012
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Arab Spring impacts Saudis’ summer plans JEDDAH: RIMA AL-MUKHTAR arab news staff
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any Saudi families used to head to Lebanon, Syria, Egypt and Tunisia to spend their summer vacations, The Arab Spring had a big impact on what Saudis percieve as attractive destinations. Now most Saudis will travel to Dubai, Europe, Malaysia and Turkey for their summer vacation. Mohammed Tameem, a 53-year-old marketeer, owns an apartment in Tunis and has been spending all his vacations there. “I cannot afford to spend my vacation anywhere else,” he said. “So I really wish Tunisia would settle down before summer vacation starts. My wife and children would love to go to Tunis to spend Ramadan there,” he added. Exploring the Kingdom is an option to some Saudis and seeing what the country has to offer. “I have never been to Jeddah. Now that the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities has many festivals in Jeddah, I’m not worried about the entertainment, I’m sure my family will have a blast,” said Bandar Abdulhafeez, a 41-year-old businessman living in Alkhobar. “Visiting Jeddah has always been an option, but my family and I thought that it would be better to go to Cairo than staying in our home land,” he added. “We are excited to see Jeddah for the fist time. We will sup-
port local tourism and will experience it first hand,” said Abdulhafeez. Europe is always an attraction for Saudi people; most of them meet there every summer in the same cities. “My summer always starts with Marbella for three weeks then Beirut for two weeks. I have been doing this ever since I was a child,” said Salwa Hejazi, a 29-year-old businesswoman. “I am really sad to miss on Beirut this summer because it’s where I meet my friends from other Arab countries,” she added. “People have been sending out messages to me saying that Beirut is not safe to spend the vacation this summer. I will wait until the time to make the reservation and make sure if it’s safe. Then I will decide if I should go or not,” said Hejazi. Owning an apartment in Cairo is the only reason for 48-year-old banker Mohammed Al-Jehani to spend his vacation there. “I spend every vacation in Egypt because I have my parents’ apartment in one of the busiest areas in Cairo,” he said. “Knowing that I do not have to think about hotels and how expensive they are is just
a relief to me. I hear people talking about how expensive hotels get during summer and it makes me pity them,” he added. “This summer, I will also head to Cairo because I’m not sure if it’s a bad idea. If it gets bad outside, I can always lock myself and my family in the apartment and find indoor activities to enjoy,” said Al-Jehani. Thirty-two-year-old businessman Mohammed Akram said he had planned to visit his mother in Syria this summer but his plan was canceled. “It’s been a while since I visited Syria and I miss my family there. My mother is Syrian and she lives there with her sisters now,” he said. “I wanted to take my wife and children to meet my mother’s side of
The Giza pyramids.
Where to go in 2012 Jet van Eeghen jetvaneeghen@arabnews.com
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F you’re one of those people who hasn’t found the time yet to book that relaxing, inspiring yet slightly quirky destination for your next vacation, here’s Arab News’ list for the best places to visit in 2012. Tree house If sleeping in a regular house has become a bit of a bore to you, why not try a tree house? Cabanes als Arbres in Sant Hilari Sacalm, at a short distance from Barcelona, offers the pleasure of a stay in a house that is only accessible by ladder. The terrace of each cabin offers superb mountain views and breakfast is served in a basket that you can hoist up by pulling on a rope. www.cabanesalsarbres.com Island in the sun Only a small dot in French Polynesia is the island of Nuku Hiva. It enchanted the famous Paul Gaugain, who painted many colorful paintings here, and it’s easy to see why. The azure colors of the ocean lap the white sands invitingly as the lush jungle beckons at the other edge of the beach. Although Internet and mobile phones have made an entrance on the island, it still holds fast to its old charm. www.pearlresorts.com Greek windmills Kissamos Windmills are located on the Greek island of Crete in Drapanias, a coastal village near a great beach and surrounded by olive groves. The accommodation had been built to resemble traditional Greek windmills, which can sleep two to six people. It is a great way to experience the famous Cretan hospitality and the idyllic surroundings. www.anemomyloi.gr Rock ‘n Roll The Pavilion Hotel in central London is small, funky and ideal for artistically minded people. Its 30 rooms have each been designed individually and bear names such as ‘Green With Envy, ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ and ‘Casablanca Nights’. The hotel has rapidly become extremely popular with supermodels, actors, musicians and TV stars. If you’re looking for something different and glam, then the
Cabanes als Arbres
Pavilion is definitely for you. www.pavilionhoteluk.com Holy city Once a large commercial center on the Great Silk Road, Bukhara is one of the most ancient cities of Uzbekistan. Since Sheikh Bahautdin Nakshbandi developed the mystical Sufi approach to philosophy, religion and Islam in this place, the city has acquired a reputation throughout the Islamic world. The 350 mosques and many historical and architectural monuments attract an increasing number of people to this ‘museum city’. Olympic spirit To soak up some Olympic spirit, while giving London - this year’s host – a miss, you may want to consider Whistler in Canada. The city was host to the Winter Games in 2010 and is now ensuring its visitors can enjoy the facilities to the fullest. Of course the Olympic venues warrant a visit, but make sure you also enjoy the hiking, summer skiing, bear viewing and rafting. www.whistler.com Narrow streets In southeast Europe, in Montenegro, lies the city of Kotor on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. The most famous part of the city is its old town, where history, culture, and tradition are being preserved. It boasts a great number of medieval monuments: churches, cathedrals, palaces, and museums. A
multitude of narrow streets, squares, and markets complete its beauty. The old nucleus of Kotor has been listed an UNESCO world heritage site since 1979 and is considered to be the best-preserved medieval urban entity in the Mediterranean. www.visit-montenegro.com Under water Has scuba diving and the world below the sea surface always attracted you? The Poseidon Undersea Resort in Fiji is the world’s first seafloor resort and the only place where you can spend a couple of days 40 feet under water in a luxurious environment. The resort is located in the crystal clear water of a Fiji lagoon and is accessed by elevator. Make sure to bring a fair bit of money, as a week’s stay at the Poseidon will set you back about $ 30,000. www.poseidonresorts.com Victoria Falls The Stanley Safari Lodge in Zambia is the perfect gateway to the mighty Victoria Falls and exclusive getaway in an African setting. The views of the falls’ sprays in the distance and the mighty Zambezi River are splendid. Take a helicopter or a microlight flight to enjoy the falls from above. Or enjoy a sunset cruise, river safari, or canoe trip. For the more adventurous among you, take one of the best rafting trips in the world, go for a bungee jump, gorge swing or abseil. www.stanleysafaris.com
the family, but this plan was canceled. I guess I’m buying my mother a ticket to make her come here instead,” he added. Not all Saudis feel deterred by the Arab Spring unrest in neighboring countries. “I do not believe Saudis or other tourists should change their vacation plans because of political issues. The people who live in Egypt and Lebanon say it’s safe and they are fully functional,” said Tarik Elwan, a 34-yearold lawyer. “I am taking my wife and two children to Cairo and I know I’m going to have a blast there. I don’t believe what the media is saying about security in Egypt, I only believe what my Egyptian friends are telling me,” he added. Beirut is not out of the picture, said Nazeerah Dakheil, a 85-year-old grandmother. “I live in Beirut and return to Jeddah four times a year. I won’t come back during the summer because it’s the best time of the year here,” she said. “I have
seen the preparations for the summer in the streets and we’ll have some entertaining festivals and activities for tourists. It doesn’t make sense for me to go back to Saudi where nothing is happening,” she added. Dakheil said that she had invited her children and grandchildren to visit Beirut’s summer festival with her. Dubai has been on the rise as an attractive destination during summer. “Dubai is the best option there after Beirut, I love going there. The city has plenty to offer from shopping, entertainment and other activities for my family,” said Fatima Sabri, a 22-year-old college student. “We should be extra careful with politics and we never know what’s going to happen next in the Arab Spring. I think it’s best to stay close to home,” she added. Choosing to spend the vacation outside the Arab countries is the smart thing to do, said Elham Al-Houti, a mother of two. “My husband and I calculated how much we would be spending in Dubai and compared it to Istanbul. We found that we would be spending the exact same thing,” she said. “This made us decide to shift our vacation to Europe and we expect to have more fun there. It will also give my daughters a chance to see Istanbul for the first time,” she added. “Arab countries are best visited anytime of the year, except in the summer,” said 26-year-old stay-athome mother Alaa Ahdal.
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Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Makkah Gate
Floating Mosque
Sail Island
Mall of Arabia
Jeddah in a bottle: Top 10 places to visit Fadia Jiffry
pointed with the variety of stuff available at the mall.
arab news staff
For those of you who are thinking Jeddah isn’t the right place to see things or go to places, you are wrong! Living in Jeddah does lift the spirits. There is something about the traditional Arab culture that everyone wants to know. The historic city, the monumental architecture and the Arab culture are what make it interesting and different from other countries. There is always somewhere to stay, dine in, shop, see, and… what not?
Floating Mosque
Sitting on the coast of the Red Sea, this mosque has been one of the sacred sites attracting numerous visitors. This wonderful mosque is a combination of contemporary architecture with ancient Islamic building art. A definite must-see when visiting the Corniche.
Durrat Al Arus
Obhur
When it comes to beaches in Saudi, Obhur leads them all. Obhur has its visitors all times of the day. You get to swim, wash your feet, play, pick shells, enjoy the summer sun and even take a walk allowing the breeze hit your face.
Balad
You have not completed your tour of Jeddah if you missed visiting the Balad. Also known as the historic city, Balad brings out its culture by always managing to make its guests leave with happy hearts.
Obhur
Makkah Gate Being one of the oldest gates in Jeddah makes it one of the prominent sightseeing in the city.
King’s Fountain
Balad (Photos by M. H. Siddiqui)
Set on the coast of the Red Sea, the King’s Fountain is one way some people actually recognize the country. If you didn’t know, this fountain shoots water into the sky at a height that beats the Eiffel Tower. That sounds interesting now, doesn’t it? Also known as the King Fahd Water Spring, the landmark secured the title of the world’s tallest fountain. That gives you a good reason to go take a look for yourself.
Durrat Al-Arus
This could be your ultimate vacation spot. You get to swim, shop, hang out, flaunt your skills on a jet ski, host BBQ parties, chill, and what not? Durrat Al-Arus is one of the luxurious resorts in the city, and if you still haven’t visited the place, you are certainly going to have to include it in your list of must-dos while you are still in Jeddah.
Makkah Royal Clock Tower Adjacent to the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Makkah is the world’s largest clock tower and
The Rosewood Red Sea romance package jeddah: ARAB NEWS
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OSEWOOD Corniche Jeddah presents to you the Red Sea Romance Package offering newlyweds the stay of their dreams. The package is perfect for honeymooners, or couples who are looking for a romantic getaway or celebrate an anniversary. “We are committed to providing an outstanding level of services to couples who want to have a chance to unwind and reconnect,” said Hans-Peter Leitzke, managing director of Rosewood Corniche. “For those who expect nothing but the very finest, we are the best equipped, ultra luxury property to meet everyone’s needs, whether you are on a flawless honeymoon, want to celebrate an anniversary, birthday, or an amorous weekend away,” he added. The room is located on the 12th floor with a great view of the Red Sea from full-length bay windows. The room includes a white king-size bed, carpets in the color of the deep blue sea, and three plasma TVs — two in the room and one in the bathroom. The room’s lounge is an ideal location to conduct both business and leisure activities, with unparalleled service from the dedicated staff and superb amenities. Complimentary fresh fruit, flowers, water and coffee is added daily to the room. The Room Management System (RMS) is a touchscreen control that is placed next to the bed to control the room temperature, lighting and curtains. At the door is a small camera to help
the couple see who is at the door without having to get up. Red rose petals are scattered around the room and bathroom floor as well as on the bed. The couple will also find two swans made out of white textile placed on the bed, as swans represent romance and pure love. The room includes a 24-hour personal butler service that is just a phone call away. The butler offers personal service to cater to the couple’s demands and needs. The romantic package includes a welcoming drink presented by the butler, a special cake catered to the couple’s favorite flavors, a personal message, a thank-you note from the hotel manager, a flower bouquet, and non-alcoholic bubbly. The next day, the couple can enjoy a breakfast in bed as well as a late checkout, allowing them to take pleasure in their honeymoon at Rosewood Corniche before leaving the premier hotel for a happily ever after. Rosewood Corniche is ideally positioned on Jeddah’s Corniche in one of the city’s most impressive districts, although you won’t need to leave your haven at any point, as Rosewood’s friendly and professional staff will take very good care of you. As the premier hotel in Jeddah, the stunning Rosewood Corniche redefines modern elegance and offers unparalleled personal service and world-class amenities, including a 24-hour butler service for each of the 127 guest rooms and suites. Those wishing to take advantage of the Red Sea Romance packages are encouraged to visit www.rosewoodhotels.com/corniche or book through their preferred travel agent.
Festivals galore in Kingdom this summer Afifa Jabeen Quraishi arab news staff
The Kingdom is buzzing with exciting festivals and innovative events this summer — an indication of its blooming domestic tourism sector. Abdullah Al-Jehani, vice president of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA), said all preparations were in place for the 27 festivals and events to be held across the length and breadth of the Kingdom, which comprise five festivals in Qassim, four in Baha, four in Tabuk, two in Al-Jauf, Al-Ahsa and Riyadh, and one in Jeddah, Najran, Jazan, Abha, Madinah, Dammam, Hail and Taif. Here’s a roundup of some of the big events that will be organized by the SCTA in cooperation with tourism development councils across the Kingdom’s regions and cities. Jeddah Ghair: Starting today, Jeddawis will be treated to a range of exciting activities under the aegis of
the Jeddah Summer Festival 2012, popularly known as Jeddah Ghair. This year’s festival, which runs until July 12, features over 150 activities including cultural, social, sports, and entertainment events to be held at the Jeddah Corniche, leading malls, parks, and public squares. Riyadh Shopping and Entertainment Festival: With the participation of a number of commercial and entertainment centers and hotels in the Kingdom in addition to eight international teams adding to the entertainment quotient of the festival, the Riyadh festival is all geared up to provide the best in fun and pleasure within the frameworks of community values to its visitors. Hail Summer Festival: An adventure-filled, month-long festival ( June 15-July 15) comprising of many recreational activities, competitions, poetry readings and exhibitions and popular markets will be held in different places
of Hail. Highlights include Saudi Ardah (folklore dance), arts and photo exhibitions, poetry events, sky gliding, heritage expos, children’s theater, tours with cartoon characters, and a blood donation campaign, among other programs. Abha Brings Us Together Festival: The festival, held from June 14-July 18, features various entertainment activities, such as theatrical performances, a productive families expo, shopping outlets, Asiri folklore, games, and prizes worth SR500,000 for the visitors, among a number of other wide-ranging programs. Festival of Diving: The first festival dedicated to diving events will be held on the shores of Magna, Tabuk, from July 2 until July 6, 2012. Not only does the festival promise an experience of a lifetime to diving aficionados in the Kingdom, it also celebrates the status of Magna as a top dive destination in the country.
King’s Fountain
the second tallest skyscraper in the world after the Burj Khalifa, which makes this another prominent landmark in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The tallest tower also holds a multifaceted five-star hotel to help provide accommodation for the pilgrims that travel to Makkah annually to take part in the Haj.
Mall of Arabia
There is Aziz Mall, Serafi Mega Mall, Red Sea Mall, Al-Andalus Mall, but this is different – it is the massive Mall of Arabia. Whether you are a shopaholic, foodaholic, a fashionista or an entertainment junkie, you are never disap-
Rosewood Corniche Hotel
The hotel is known as the epitome of Arabian hospitality, always promising to present supreme elegance, luxury and personal service. What makes Rosewood special is the spectacular view of the Red Sea. Inside the hotel, guests experience an assorted array of world-class cuisine touching the striking coastal surroundings.
Sail Island
Now this place is fun! It is a mini park and resort. There is a kids’ swimming pool, sand area, theater activity, jumping castle, arcade center, and gift shop. They guarantee an experience of a lifetime.