Travel Arabia Jul_Aug 07

Online Version: www.travel-arabia.com

July - Aug 2007, Volume 3, Issue 7

HOLIDAY STRESSES When bookings get awry Pattaya, Thailand

A Playground in the Sun Dubai Summer Surprises ‘07

Miles of Smiles

RELAX

UNWIND

ENJOY

The UAE’s spa centers

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I Travel Arabia I June

June I Travel Arabia I

editor’s note

This

is my first summer in Dubai. Having lived on a tropical island for 12 years, the heat in Dubai is somehow tolerable and bearable. But it’s the humidity, I think, that makes people run away from the city. The sticky weather that makes one feel dehydrated, exhausted and stressed out.

For people like us who sit in the comfort of an air-conditioned room, the scorching heat is not a big deal. We don’t mind the heat except of course when we leave the office and drive to meet clients or attend meetings. I feel bad for those whose job is out on the field. They are those who suffered much from the weather.

I’m thankful that businesses here make adjustments when summer season comes.

Construction companies have their employees work in the evenings when it’s a lot cooler.

Others implement a split in working hours. But the rest tend to use the summer months to send employees home for their annual vacation.

The latter has become the norm in most of the businesses here. This is the reason why we carry a combined issue for July and August. To take advantage of the summer season and visit our families back home.

A lot of people have left the country by now, especially families with children because school is officially over. Summer break is the most awaited time for parents to relax and for kids to spend their most-deserved break after ten months of studying.

Last month, we featured several summer deals offered by hotels and airlines. I hoped they

were useful enough in finalizing your summer plans. However, in case you have not sealed off your plans, we are featuring more deals from hotels within and outside the region. The rates a lot of hotels are offering this summer are super attractive and indeed, very low, giving you plenty of reasons to stay.

This year’s Dubai Summer Surprises has also started. The most celebrated summer event opened with an extravagant ceremony. DSS is now on its 10th year and highlighting the celebration is the ten surprises which are running continuously for the whole ten weeks at several participating malls. The festive atmosphere will run from June 21 to August 21 and with 10 weeks of excitement, adventure and entertainment, you will truly forget the summer heat.

This issue, I also had the privilege of talking to three gentlemen who are managing three of the many luxurious hotels in the UAE. It’s nice to talk to these men who shared their experiences, revealed some trade secrets and most of all, gave tips on how to run a hotel with staff of different nationalities and how to deal with an upset customer.

One GM said that summer may be a lean season for the hotels in Dubai but the void created by expatriates and residents leaving the country will be filled by incoming tourists who don’t mind the heat but come here to enjoy the beach, relax, shop and be entertained.

Having said that, summer will definitely be busy in Dubai. There will be lots of entertainment, winnings and shopping. If you happen to be out of the country when Travel Arabia hits the stand, you can still read the magazine by checking the online version at www.travel-arabia.com. Flip through the pages and enjoy reading.

I hope to hear from you when we all get back together in September.

Flor B. Pamintuan

www.travel-arabia.com Publisher KALIMAT GROUP INTERNATIONAL FZ-LLC Travel Arabia Head Office Office G4, Building No.1 Phase One, P.O.Box 502408 Dubai Media City, UAE Tel +971 4 391 0410/1/2/3 Fax +971 4 391 6619 E-mail editor@travel-arabia.com General Manager Hekmat el Zein Editor Flor B. Pamintuan editor@travel-arabia.com Staff Writers Anjana Das Habeeb Salloum Contributors Gordon Torbet Eugene Correia Angela T Chuck Wightman Ty Treadwell Photographers Mahesh Kumar Duvvuru Maher El Zein Samir Ahmed Designer Mohammed Usman Siraj Assistant Designer Mohd Noufal Althaf Hussain Sales & Marketing Manager Syed Muhammad Arif arif@kalimatgroup.com Distributor Jashanmal National Co. LLC Travel Arabia Lebanon Office Riad el solh 11072070 P.O.Box 11-1197 Beirut, Lebanon Tel +961 3 435 780 Fax +961 7 762 104 Travel Arabia disclaimer All text and layout remains the copyright of Kalimat Group International FZ LLC, unless stated otherwise. Travel Arabia is fully independent, and its views are not those of any company mentioned herein.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

your letters

Reader’s view of Travel Arabia.

Airport departure lobby

I haven’t been to Dubai International Airport lately so when I went to send a family member off, I was surprised to see that there is a lobby in the departure area where families, friends or business travellers can eat and chat while waiting for their flights. It is located on the second floor of the building and the lobby gives a full view of the area where planes are parked. There’s a play area for kids and several food kiosks. I didn’t know that this area exists so the next time you send off someone, the departure lobby is a good place to be.

Michael Thomas Dubai

Dubai Festival City project I visited the Dubai Festival City last month and was surprised to see the road work in that area getting near completion. Gone were the big road signs that confused motorists like myself. I also passed the Business Bay Bridge which is a very convenient access for people going to DFC. The hotels and most of the stores are near completion as well. This area will be another attraction for visiting guests to Dubai. I can’t wait to see the other projects coming to Dubai.

Denise Johnston Al Barsha, Dubai

Less traffic on the road

Summer is definitely here. Not only do I feel it in the air but also on the roads. I’ve been noticing that there’s less traffic on the road, except of course when there is an accident and most of the commuters want to check who are involved. I think there’s less traffic now because a lot of schools have ended their term. A lot of residents have also left the country because of the heat. Well, I will enjoy the scene while it lasts. Because come September, everything will surely be back to normal.

Deborah Smith Dubai

Summer destinations I want to thank you for featuring the top 10 summer destinations in your June issue. I was browsing through a lot of local magazines and didn’t come across the topics that you have featured. Most that I read are about summer fashion, food, ways to enjoy summer and other summery things. It’s interesting to learn about the destination and learn what it is known for during summer. Thank you for a very informative editorial.

Asha Singh Dubai

All rights reserved. © 2007 Kalimat Group International

I Travel Arabia I July

Travel Arabia would like to receive your comments and suggestions.

Write to editor@travel-arabia.com

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Soothing Spas

Miles of Smiles

Summer Deals

Many spas in the Emirates offer tourists a variety of choices – in terms of theme, style, concept or treatment.

Theme ranges from Thai to Egyptian to contemporary.

Treatments are offered in stand-alone spas or those within luxurious hotels.

Check the leading spas in the Emirates and see what they offer.

Make Dubai your destination this summer! With the Dubai Summer Surprises enjoying its 10th anniversary, more surprises, entertainment and fun awaits our residents and guests. For the first time, all ten surprises run together for the entire ten weeks. The celebration runs until August 21.

The summer season is still here. Enjoy the exciting deals offered by leading properties here and outside the region.

The offers are very tempting which gives you more reason to stay and enjoy summer. The offers run till end of August so you have plenty of time to decide.

Living Arabia -Qatar In spite of its oil wealth, Qataris still hold on to the Arab virtues of generosity, hospitality, honour and respect for guests. Should one be lucky enough to be invited to a Qatari home, the friendliness and generosity of the host will be boundless. These traditions, up-to-date tourist facilities and the country’s attractive modern architecture, are drawing an ever-increasing number of tourists to this heart of the Arabian Gulf.

About the Cover: Spa is an acronym for the Latin phrase “Sanus Per Aquam”. Spa facilities are increasing in numbers all over the world, and the UAE is no exemption. In fact, three out of four resorts in the Middle East that have been voted as world class are located in Dubai.

48 Outside Arabia – Pattaya, Thailand Pattaya is unique as a beach resort with city status. This once tiny fishing village has developed into a renowned international playground.

Colourful and alive with activity, it is unrivalled as a beach resort, offering more attractions in greater profusion than any other single destination in Southeast Asia.

56 An Oasis of Greenery Somewhere in the heart of the Arabian Desert lies a community that clearly defines and upholds the true meaning of its name – the Green Community.

Covering 67 lush hectares of residential, leisure, retail and commercial properties, the Green Community prides itself on its modern and beautiful surroundings with natural greenery comprising about 40 percent of the total area.

GALLERY SCAN DEAD CITY OF SERJILLA - SYRIA FISHING

58 Taking Advantage of the Times In the coming months, Moevenpick Hotel Bur Dubai will undergo several improvements - the opening of an additional 24 executive rooms, an upgraded internet system, a new rooftop gymnasium and an adjacent Moevenpick Residence.

Michael Nugent, General Manager, shares these changes and why the timing is right for such.

72 Great Taste The Gallery, an all day dining restaurant at the Burjuman Rotana Suites offers the finest international cuisine from around the world including a daily buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner along with a wide selection of continental cuisine from a la carte menu.

Events July-Aug First Impressions

Ennio –

Print-Making Exhibition by Students of Zayed University 13 July – 12 August, 2007 The Jam Jar

Paper with a pulse!

Print making is an arduous artistic process that is a popular practice worldwide – just beginning to penetrate the higher education facilities of the United Arab Emirates. Professor Karen Oremus of Zayed University is paving the way for her students and aspiring local print-makers by encouraging the awareness and foundation of print making facilities, having established the first printing-making studio in Abu Dhabi.

The body of work that she and her students have produced will be on display at The Jam Jar (Al Quoz) after its return from Europe. It was selected and presented at the Lessandra World Art Annual Exhibition and Competition, Bulgaria. The exhibition of over 40 artists’ pieces, will also contain an array of tools, papers and matrixes (where prints are originally created before being translated into various media) to help educate the viewer in the creative process behind each print.

You are invited to experience the first body of print work produced by Zayed University students, guided under Professor Oremus. Each print copy is known as an impression – which gives rise to the aptly named exhibition. “First Impressions”.

Be at The Jam Jar (Al Quoz) at 7:00 PM, 13th July to experience print making, first hand.

Perpetual Metamorphosis Print Making Exhibition by Karen Oremus 29 August – 10 September, 2007 The Jam Jar Canadian native, Karen Oremus has been working as an artist and educator in Canada, the United States, Europe and most recently, the Middle East as a Professor of Art and Design

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at Zayed University teaching the disciplines of painting, drawing and print-making.

The Jam Jar will be displaying her very personal artwork that explores the unpredictability and fragility of life from both a universal and personal perspective.

This is emphasized through her examination of the concept of physical and environmental decay brought about by the passage of time, physical disease and decay, and destruction through war.

Perpetual Metamorphosis, addresses her mother’s tragic

illness, dementia, and thereby marks the human metamorphosis. The conceptual support for the Perpetual Metamorphosis series includes maps which signify ‘place’ and ‘distance’ demonstrating both the physical and mental distance between the artist and her mother.

It is our honor to invite you to share in this moving experience on August 29th at The Jam Jar (Al Quoz).

Ennio’s show has toured the globe for over 17 years, performing in over 68 countries to millions of people in theatres, TV shows, gala’s and open air summer festivals. His one man show has received several nominations for major awards, such as the Laurence Olivier Award and the Drama Desk Award.

Watch Ennio’s show at Madinat Theater from 3rd to 7th of July 2007, with a matinee on the 6th of July. Show starts at 8:30 pm.

Prices are AED 135 for the evening show and AED 100 for the matinee show.

For more information, please visit www. enniomarchetto.com

May I Travel Arabia I 11

COVER STORY

12 I Travel Arabia I July

Soothing Spas

Travellers to the United Arab Emirates, whether on business or pleasure, always find time to relax. Spas, considered one of the most effective forms of relaxation, are increasing in numbers especially in Dubai. Travel Arabia checks several spas around UAE and select your desired theme, concept and treatments.

Dedicated spa resorts and luxurious hotel spas are booming across the Emirates, with Dubai already having one of the highest concentrations of these centres per capita in the world.

In fact, three of the Middle East’s world class resorts are found in the city, according to the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World group.

“The number of hotels in Dubai offering spa amenities is increasing by 17% per year and by 2015, it is highly likely that there will be more than 200 establishments here containing world class facilities, making the city the top global spa destination,” says Susan Amin, exhibition manager for Messe Frankfurt’s Wellness & Spa Middle East trade fair.

Many spas in the Emirates offer tourists a variety of choices – in terms of theme, style, concept or treatment.

Theme ranges from Thai to Egyptian to contemporary. Treatments are offered in stand-alone spas or those within the hotels. Many spas have designated areas for men and women, and often come with a “wet” area, comprising of a sauna, Jacuzzi and a plunge pool, and can be used before or after treatment.

Angsana Spa Angsana Spa is your sanctuary of holistic massages, beauty wraps and tropical scrubs using fresh botanicals and aromatherapy. Here is where trained Asian therapists help you feel good inside and outside with a hightouch, low-tech factor. Angsana Spa has four properties in Dubai, the flagship is situated at the Dubai Marina, and the

latest in Emirates Hills.

Angsana Spa is notable for their signature décor of modern tangerine and cool lime green colours, with a touch of charming Asian artwork. Each property has its own signature therapy.

Angsana’s unique therapy is a blend of the best from the East and the West.

It includes Essence of Angsana which is a full body package; Massages in Thai, Ayurvedic, Balinese and the signature Angsana massage; Body Polishes of which Lemon Yogurt Radiance is a firm favourite; and the signature Angsana Facials using yogurt, honey, almond and soya.

Inspired by the exotic Angsana Tree noted for its crown of golden fragrant flowers that burst into bloom unexpectedly, Angsana Spa beholds the maxim to live life spontaneously, “to sense the moment and savour time as it passes inexorably”.

Cleopatra’s Spa & Health Club Inspired from the style and elegance of the legendary ancient Egyptian queen of the same name, Cleopatra’s Spa captures the wonders of Arabia presenting them in a superbly luxurious spa experience.

The spa is divided into male and female areas, with a total of 30 treatment rooms, as well as a wet area with Jacuzzi, Plunge Pool, Steam room and Sauna. The Spa has a tranquil relaxation area, including a Majilis, where you can delight in a magical state of peacefulness and well-being.

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The word “Spa” is an acronym for the Latin phrase “Sanus Per Aquam”, health through waters and reflect spa’s origins as centers for bathing and water treatments

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With the finest specialist therapists at your service, delight yourself with the most exclusive treatments. The range varies from anti-aging facials, body wraps, the Rasul which is a detoxifying mud treatment, the popular body sculpting program “Ionithermie”, a wide range of international massages and the signature “Java Royal Treatment”. Feel like the legend herself in Cleopatra’s bronze bath enriched with milk, anointed with perfume amongst floating exotic flowers.

Cleopatra’s Spa is located at Wafi City, Dubai. For bookings, call +971 4 3247700.

Satori Spa The Japanese word Satori means a feeling of joy, peace and calm. Satori Spa is located at Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa and the minute you enter the Spa, you will feel an atmosphere of absolute serenity while your therapist brings pleasure to your every senses.

Satori Spa treatments offer an ancient healing massage rituals from

the east and the latest technology from the west. There are also a range of Satori signature treatments which include a dry acupressure massage, a Balinese Massage in their outdoor treatment rooms, or the Desert Rose Ritual where you will lie back on a bed of dewy roses, which is a deeply moisturizing treatment.

Another Satori Spa facility is located within the premises of The Jumeirah Beach Club Resort and Spa. The Spa offers modern and traditional holistic, rejuvenating treatments for the mind, body and soul.

Highly skilled therapists and masseurs from Indonesia carry out the treatments using a natural range of products. You can either choose from the Elemis range or the traditional Satori Spa Signature treatments.

Spa at Shangri-La The Spa at Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai is a luxurious, spacious and professionally equipped haven.

Embracing a holistic approach to physical and spiritual well being, guests

can relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters of the plunge pools, sauna and steam rooms; tone the body using stateof-the art fitness equipment or workout in the movement studio; or revitalize and rejuvenate with a selection of unique therapies and treatments.

The fundamentals of the Spa at Shangri-La are vitality, fitness and beauty. To support these, the Spa features a fully equipped gymnasium complete with personal trainer; separate ladies and gents spa facilities (including nine treatment rooms); movement studio; Hair Salon and Barber; Juice Bar, Squash/Tennis Courts; free-form outdoor swimming pool and boutique where a range of spa accessories, signature skincare, body lotions and aromatic oils are available for sale. For details and information, call Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai at +971 44052441.

Eden Spa & Health Club Refresh. Energize. Cleanse. Relax.

These are the philosophies behind Le Meridien Abu Dhabi’s Eden Spa & Health Club. Eden Spa works with professionals in aromatherapy, naturopathy, Ayurvedic medicine, botanical and marine sciences to bring you a product range that is natural and safe for sensitive skin and designed to balance the body and mind. Eden Spa uses Phytomer products which are also available for purchase from the Spa Reception.

Eden Spa offers a wide range of treatments including advanced technology facials, wraps, mineral baths, relaxation massage as well as their healing hydro bath programs.

The facilities include an Aquamedic pool, Jacuzzi, Turkish Hammam, sauna, steam room and private room for spa treatment.

A fully equipped gymnasium is located within the spa for toning and bodybuilding. The resort complex features flood-lit tennis courts and squash courts. You can enjoy the warm waters of the Persian Gulf from the resort’s private beach. Le Meridien Abu

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Dhabi is dedicated to provide guests with an atmosphere of complete calm, exemplary service and facilities to relax and tone the mind, body and soul. For more information, call +9712 644 6666.

Kairali Spa Treatments at the Kairali Spa are based on the ancient Indian science of Ayurveda, a unique and ancient system of medicine that works in synergy with nature. Ayurveda is a comprehensive regimen of living in nature, free of physical, psychological and spiritual sickness.

Kairali Spa located on the first floor of the Elixir Medical Center in Sheikh Zayed Road has an in-house Ayurvedic doctor who will determine your body type to decide what type of herbs will go into the kizhi (a bundle of muslin cloth with powdered herbs) or what oil will be used for the Dhara (a continuous stream of oil dripping onto the forehead).

Kairali Spa’s menu includes Shiro Dhara, Relaxation Massage, Full Body Massage and steam and shower detoxification. The Spa also offers a Kairali Holistic Package which includes Shiro Dhara and the herbal bundlekizhi. For more details, call +971 4 3210066.

Assawan Spa Named after the stone known for its purity and healing properties, The Assawan Spa & Health Club is located on the 18th floor of the famous Burj Al Arab. A lavishly decorated private health and fitness facility, it promises an experience that will indulge the senses, revitalize the body and refresh the mind.

The Assawan Spa embellishes exquisite luxury by combining the best of Arabian hospitality with world-class treatments and services. Whether it’s pampering, weight loss, stress reduction or relaxation at the Assawan Spa, your every need is anticipated and satisfied.

All treatments are administered

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in the exclusive ambience of separate male and female treatment rooms.

There are total 18 treatment rooms, nine for females. The Assawan Spa uses two products for its treatments: ESPA and La Prairie. ESPA is an unusual combination of products that harness the best aromatherapy, hydrotherapy, thallasotherapy and pytotherapy.

By taking a holistic approach, the treatments are as much for the innerself and mind as they are for face and body.

La Prairie beauty products offer a range of cellular treatments based on the exclusive La Prairie Cellular Complex. The aim of La Prairie beauty programmes is to prolong the youthful appearance of even the most delicate skin.

Armonia Hot Stone Massage is one of Armonia’s signature treatments at Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Dubai. The treatments are offered at Armonia’s Well Being Centre with four treatment rooms aptly named to help you unwind: Aquamarine and Waves, the two massage rooms for ladies and gents; the facial room and Pacific, a jungle-themed room for the Hot Stone Massage.

The Centre also offered facial treatments using Skin Master Plus Machine, designed keeping your skin type in mind. Treatments can range from anti-aging, acne, whitening and anti-hyper pigmentation, skin firming, anti-wrinkles and skin renewing. This can be followed by body treatments like well being body massage or a deep tissue massage; both guarantee to transport you to a world of bliss.

You can also opt for a Beach steam, or herbal steam treatment or an Ayurvedic massage at the Balinese huts.

The Centre uses Skeyndor products for their Marine Scrub and Body Wrapping.

For reservations, call + 971 4 3995533

Softouch Spa Set in the luxurious surroundings of Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, the Softouch Spa offers professional Ayurvedic wellness programs and diverse healing treatments from around the globe.

Providing services for men and women, all spa treatments and services are available to hotel guests and the public to enjoy. Boasting seven spacious and beautifully appointed treatment rooms, the spa combines the ancient healing powers of Ayurveda with a comprehensive range of international healing techniques that combat the stress and strain of today’s hectic lifestyles.

Experienced therapists and licensed Ayurvedic practitioners provide a synergy of gentle rejuvenation, relaxation and beauty treatments, as well as prescribed healing programs and dietary advice. More than just a relaxation experience, each client undergoes a personalised evaluation in order to achieve optimum health and wellbeing.

To complement the Ayurvedic Center, the spa also offer an impressive selection of body massages using Swedish, Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Balinese and Hot Stone techniques

among others. Along with the body massages and treatments, Softouch Spa offers the finest natural body care treatments from Caribbean inspired Ligne St. Barth, containing exotic fruits and ingredients from the tropics that gently replenish the skin.

Natural design elements give the spa a distinct sense of timelessness, with stone floors, pebble tiles, silk walls and water features lending a soothing and deeply peaceful air to every area.

Each treatment room is fitted with hand-crafted Ayurvedic equipment and modern amenities, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary convenience.

For reservations, call + 971 4 3410000s

Caracalla Spa The Caracalla Spa & Health Club is located at Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa. The Spa takes its inspiration from the Antonine Baths, considered as ancient Rome’s most luxurious public baths in the third century AD. Hidden away in three floors of the Tower of the resort, with a private entrance to ensure privacy, the spa is tailor made for relaxation and reinvigoration. The menu consists of a reviving facial to body glow treatments and aromatherapy massage, practical

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SPA ETIQUETTE • Arrive a minimum of 15 minutes prior to your appointment/treatment to allow yourself ample time to change and get ready.

• Remember to switch off your mobile phones or pager to enjoy complete relaxation and so that neither you nor other guests are disturbed.

• Do not bring any valuables or jewellery to the Spa. Leave it at your home or in your hotel.

• The Spa will provide towels, slippers and robes during your Spa treatment.

• The Spa environment is one of tranquility and

Some information provided by the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing

relaxation. Respect the peaceful ambience as well as the privacy of other guests.

• A locker is normally provided for your belongings.

• Guests are advised to inform their therapists or in-house doctors of any health concerns before going for a treatment.

• Dress codes apply in several Spa facilities. In keeping with the local culture, appropriate swimwear must be worn in ‘wet’ areas and some treatments.

cellulite and lymphatic drainage treatments as well as face and body waxing.

There are separate treatment areas for men and women, separate sauna, steam and Jacuzzi facilities plus a central Hammam with five plunge pools set in a Romanesque atrium complete with draped statues, plants and subtle lighting.

The Caracalla Spa is open to both hotel guests and visitors with various levels of membership for local residents.

Shapes Wellness & Spa The Spa at Shapes specializes in all

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natural therapies from Thailand. Shapes is the largest dedicated group wellness program center in Dubai and the spa is part of the wellness facilities.

The Spa at Shapes uses Rain Forest range of products and offers minifacials with such exotic and ethnic names like Tamarind and Turmeric Facial, Rice Bran and Germ Facial, Mangosteen and Tomato facials. The same extend into the body scrub and polish treatments.

Shapes specializes in the holistic massage and relaxation programs.

Because of the extensive work done on the wellness programs, Shapes offers effective treatments for back, neck and shoulder. For more information, contact +971 4 3672137.

The Spa at Millennium The Spa is within the Le Club Health and Fitness located on the

second floor of Millennium Hotel Sharjah. Here, you will rediscover the simple pleasures of life by pampering your body, mind and soul with one of their relaxing or slimming oriental massage sessions.

There is separate treatment room for men and women as well as separate saunas and steam bath. The Spa specializes in Oriental massages and you can request for a full body (60-minute massage) or half body (30-minute massage). Relaxation, Therapeutic, Aromatic Oil and Foot Reflexology Massages are the kind of massages offered at The Spa. Their signature treatment is the Slimming Massage which guarantees weight lose after 10 or 15 sessions.

The Le Club Health and Fitness has two temperature controlled swimming pools, one children’s pool, a fully equipped gymnasium and squash court.

For information, call +971 6 5566666.

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Miles of Smiles

Celebrating its 10th year, the Dubai Summer Surprises promises more fun and excitement for residents and guests with more than 200 fun filled events lined up for 10 weeks, from June 21 till August 21. This means kids and adults can enjoy more shopping, winning and entertainment.

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Dubai Summer Surprises, the most celebrated and the most prominent summer event in the region opened with the entire city decked up to mark the 10th anniversary of the event.

Spanning across Dubai shopping malls, the Modhesh Fun City in the Dubai Airport Expo Hall and other venues, the event signalled the start of all 10 themed surprises running simultaneously for the first time since DSS was launched in 1998.

The summer event that will run for 72 days, from June 21 to August 21, is expected to achieve an all time record of AED 3.08 billion in spend, constituting a 20 per cent high, and 2.16 million arrivals with a 15 per cent increase from last year.

“We are very confident that Dubai Summer Surprises will further enhance its global position in the festival industry, capitalizing on the gigantic leaps of the various sectors in the city of Dubai. With the state-of-the-art leisure projects that will materialize during the coming few

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years, DSS will have a bigger and wider spectrum of locations to extend its reach,” said His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Department of Civil Aviation; Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group; and Chairman of DSF & DSS Supreme Committee.

HH expected more than 2 million visitors to attend the upcoming summer surprises with a 15% increase compared to last year’s event. HH also anticipated expenditure during DSS 2007 to cross the 3 Billion Dirham mark with an expected increase of 20%.

“While the event was initially launched to help stir the retail and hospitality sectors during the slow summer season, thus providing a combination of family entertainment and child oriented attractions, it has turned into an annual extravaganza awaited by millions around the world, placing in the process the city of Dubai as a leading

summer destination and catering for all ages and tastes,” HH added.

The ten-week celebration will include raffles and fun-filled activities that will surely attract family members of all age groups, making the 72 days of the summer fiesta so memorable that the experiences would last a lifetime.

Ten Surprises A new addition has been made to the Ten Surprises, one of the biggest attractions of this year’s DSS. Comedy Surprises will showcase the best humour and laughter for ten weeks. Dubai’s modern and expansive malls, under the Dubai Shopping Malls Group (DSMG), will host the Ten Surprises on a rotational basis, making the whole event easily accessible to all DSS visitors this year.

Food Surprises will feature cuisines from around the globe with international chefs from renowned hotels come together to present a world of culinary

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The Festival became the most highly mediatised annual event of the film industry, with today over 4,000 journalists representing 1,600 media companies.

delights. Cooking competitions, food carvings and live entertainment will keep food enthusiast busy.

Heritage Surprises will reveal the origin and traditions of the Arab world by showcasing folkloric shows, traditional fashion shows and traditional sports. Wedding ceremonies of different countries will add colour and excitement to the Surprises.

Art Surprises aim to bring together art enthusiasts of all ages where all art

“DSS 2007 promises to be an exceptional event, a beginning of a new era for DSS,� said HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Makhtoum forms, including music, writing and painting are celebrated. The event is an arena for all art lovers to exhibit and appreciate art in its different forms.

Flower Surprises will feature different activities like flower arrangements and flower drawing competitions, live workshops on flower vase decoration, painting, and handicrafts.

Knowledge Surprises are based on the theme of edutainment or education mixed

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with entertainment. Knowledge Surprises provide children of all ages an opportunity to seek knowledge through practical activities. The main aim of the activities during the Surprises is to help children seek, explore, and learn about a wide range of topics that include science, technology, history, art, and current affairs.

Global Surprises are a way of expressing Dubai’s appreciation of other cultures by hosting folklore and cultural shows of regions from around

the world. Culture has always been a unifying element amongst people and Global Surprises will host songs, dances, and other art forms to provide residents and visitors a glimpse into traditions and customs from all over the globe.

Cartoon Surprises are a combination of entertaining shows, competitions, workshops, and plays for children who simply love to come face to face with their favourite cartoon characters. The

Surprises provide the perfect avenue for children to further their creativity and imagination.

Nature Surprises are all about inculcating a sense of responsibility in ensuring a pollution-free environment.

This Surprise is significant because it enlightens children and adults on conservation, recycling, carbon emissions, global warming, and other environment related issues that are of much relevance today.

Adventure Surprises are targeted at children, teenagers, and adults, who love the thrill of outdoor activities and enjoy indoor events that test the reflexes and mental faculties. During the event, visitors will be treated to acrobat shows performed by international troupes, beach activities and water sports, and computer games for all gaming enthusiasts.

Organised for the first time in a DSS edition, visitors will be pleasantly surprised to find clowns and jugglers amidst them. Comedy Surprises will have various stand-up comedy shows, caricature workshops, and exhibitions held to entertain all visitors.

Modhesh Fun City The Modhesh Fun City, the star attraction of every DSS returned this year with greater fun, frolic and edutainment.

Located at the Dubai Airport Expo Hall – East Hall the Fun City is the largest indoor theme park in the region creating an ideal entertainment venue for families and children. The main attractions of the MFC would be the Modhesh Stage, Fun Fair and Sports Zone along with support zones such as Family Court, Sand Zone, Lego Zone, Toddler Zone and many more.

The Modhesh Fun City calendar of

events is filled with interesting activities and shows to be staged during the 72 days. Boasting a mix of the old and the new, the Fun City features a number of new attractions this year with its Teen Zone for teenagers, a Story Teller Zone, Library and Pet Zone. Scattered across the Fun City are retail zones well stocked with Modhesh merchandise, and various kiosks selling refreshments. Modhesh Studio and Modhesh Saloon will be providing excellent services to families visiting the large facility.

Another major attraction at the Fun City is the exclusive summer club for kids – the Modhesh Friends’ Club. The day long Club is open to members in the age-group 3 to 12 years from June 24 to August 24. The Club promotes fun and edutainment while also emphasising on friendship and human values. All its activities are designed to boost children’s confidence and develop their personalities.

Mega Events The Mega events which aim to appeal to a cross-section of audiences from various age-groups, nationalities and interests promise to be the last word in entertainment this summer.

Boasting major attractions like internationally acclaimed “Cartoonival” and “Hello Kitty” mega shows, in addition to the Wonderful Circus which features highly acclaimed performances reflecting elements of dance, pantomime and theatre, other attractions include classical and Jazz music concerts from around the world for the die-hard music aficionados.

Shopping Malls have always been a pillar of support for the DSS and this year is no different. The plush shopping malls of Dubai will be setting new records in the history of entertainment to mark their decade long association with the DSS.

The events to be held in various malls include mega events such as World of Stories, Collectors Exhibition, Photography Exhibition, Arts Oasis and Sheila and Abaya fashion shows. Among the other in-mall events are the Summer Kids fashion shows, Kids Olympics and Men Beladi cookery and traditional shows.

Spa Packages The DSS 2007 Spa Packages are part of an agreement reached between the various spas in Dubai and the DSS Office where special-price treatments tailored to DSS visitors will be offered throughout the ten weeks of DSS from June 21 till August 31.

The spa treatments are designed to provide visitors a wide variety of stress relief, relaxation, and beauty treatments that cater to every segment of travellers – from the curious to dedicated health and spa tourists.

The participating spas will offer exclusive DSS packages at special rates, promoting a lifestyle of health, wellness and rejuvenation, making the summer not just bearable but enjoyable.

July I Travel Arabia I 25

Holiday

Stresses

When your booking goes awry, CHUCK WIGHTMAN writes about an ounce of prevention and a lesson in salvage.

26 I Travel Arabia I July

Sooner or later, if you travel enough, you will encounter a problem that threatens to upend the best laid vacation plans. There are ways to weed out the risks, but it is also important that you are prepared enough that hiccups don’t hijack your vacation.

There are the obvious measures, like medical and cancellation insurance, often available through your bank or credit card company, but other less obvious preparations, such as notifying your consulate when arriving for longer trips – particularly in less stable parts of the world – can make quick, unplanned departures less costly and frightening.

* Before leaving, notify your credit and banking institutions of your travel plans so that they do not block your transactions as part of their ‘suspicious

information, including which currencies and forms of payment are accepted.

Some countries except credit; most prefer cash. American dollars, Euros and British pounds tend to rule.

* Avoid close check-ins and connections. Airline and ground staff vary from nation to nation, even airport to airport. Some will dazzle with their efficiency; others may give you ulcers.

* Withhold payment or cancel arrangements with any company that is slow to guarantee reservations or issue vouchers. This is an early sign of unreliability, or worse, scams. * When booking hotels and flights, be aware of change/cancellation restrictions and charges. * Know where you are going and what reasonable rates are. Use reputable services, which are always well identified.

Always carry a few days’ cash in case of empty ATMs, unanticipated bank holidays, non-compatible cards, or withdrawal limits. Be aware that not every nation exchanges every other nation’s currency. activity’/fraud precautions. Ensure that your withdrawal limits are set to reasonable levels, bearing in mind that it may not always be possible to find a bank machine every day, and even if this is possible, the charges will be prohibitive.

* Always travel with more than

one debit or credit card. Avoid travellers cheques as they readily mark you as a tourist and generally don’t command good exchange rates. Most merchants in tourist areas (and even in fairly remote corners) take at least one type of credit card, but check the availability of banks and automated teller machines before leaving.

* Ensure that you have the most up to date visa fee and reciprocity tax

Be prepared for added customs or immigration inspections you may not experience at home.

* Be aware of restrictions on the transport and import/export of food, drugs, and currencies between nations. Fresh food, items of historical significance, and carvings made from bone are particularly risky. Just because a vendor sells it to you, doesn’t mean it will be able to leave the country with you.

Be leery of people who approach you in airports. Arranging hotel shuttles, or finding the shuttle desk in an airport are cheap (even free alternatives), but if all else fails, flagging a MARKED taxi is the best option.

* Your guide is your best friend. They will direct you to reliable services and alert you to local customs or risks to be aware of. Respect them and at the end of

* Look for established tour companies, with well-documented itineraries. Guidebooks and newspapers provide good sources for reliable tour companies. Prepare questions relevant to what services and amenities you are expecting. Inquire about additional sites you might like to see. Sometimes accommodations or substitutions can be made for very little additional cost.

July I Travel Arabia I 27

in anticipating issues that may arise, and offer useful phrases to smooth them.

your travels, reward them accordingly.

When something does go amiss, the best thing to do is remain composed and seek reasonable redress. Here again, your guide can help smooth the edges, and may carry more weight (as in providing future bookings) in resolving your concerns.

Confirm your flights to ensure that you have accurate departure times and most importantly, that you are not bumped from overbooked flights.

* Remember that the person behind the desk often has little to do with the cause of your problem and may be your only sympathetic ear. Being calm and respectful can mean the difference between discount, food, taxi and hotel vouchers and a long night in the airport with nothing. * On occasion you will have to pay a disputed charge and attempt to resolve or recoup the money later. Make certain that you receive an accurate copy of the charges accompanied by a clear explanation. For quick resolution, be certain to retain copies of your confirmation numbers and the name and other details of the person who tended to your bookings. * If you have multiple flights with the same airline, they can often be confirmed all at once. A few moments can often save frantic queuing at the airport. * If your flight is overbooked and you can afford to be flexible, airlines generally offer impressive rewards for the inconvenience. In my own experience these have varied from generous cash allowances to spa or resort packages. * On long journeys it will prove helpful to know at least minor phrases in the main local language. There are several compact and reliable phrasebooks on the market, that go tremendous lengths

28 I Travel Arabia I July

* While it may seem obvious, do not flaunt your wealth. Jewelry should be left at home: less hassle at the metal detectors, less chance of leaving it behind, or having it stolen. Sweatshirts or jackets with zippered pockets provide ideal places to carry cameras inconspicuously. * Know where you are going when leaving your hotel. In larger cities it is common to see everyone bent over a map, but in more remote parts it may unnecessarily mark you as an easy target for a scam. Again guidebooks afford a wealth of information on the more common local tourist scams. Some prove quite humorous once you are in the know. * Never provide your identification to anyone in the street. Ask to be taken to the nearest police station to have your infraction explained. **There is no shortage of fake policemen in the world.

If something is obviously a scam, don’t hesitate to WALK calmly away. Very likely you will not be pursued. * Lastly, it is always a good idea to check your bedding when you check-in to ensure that your sleep won’t be disrupted by any uninvited guests. Bugs tend to lurk around the base of a mattress, and can be found in even the nicest hotels. To this end, it never hurts to vacuum your suitcase on returning home either.

Perhaps the most important thing to remember after you’ve taken the reasonable precautions is to enjoy your trip. Experience the culture, try the food, and take in some of the more quirky sights to get a real sense of the place.

Most people are delighted to welcome you to their world, and on the off chance that you encounter someone less savoury, don’t let it spoil the rest of your adventure.

Millennium leads the

industry in Sharjah

Barely five years in the industry, Millennium Hotel Sharjah received the “Leading Hotel in Sharjah” award for three years now. Najib Bensouda, General Manager, will maintain this title by offering new things for their clients.

Travel Arabia talks to the GM who reveals what to expect from the property.

With 26 years of experience in the industry, Najib Bensouda, General Manager of Millennium Hotel Sharjah, is someone who knows the ropes of the business. Before accepting this new position at Sharjah’s leading hotel, this man managed the opening of Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi and another Kempinski hotel in Chad, Africa.

So it was not a surprise that the first thing he did when he accepted this position back in April was to analyze the property and looked at ways to even improve the business regardless of its current status.

“I’ve been looking at ways to get more people to come and see the hotel so

30 I Travel Arabia I July

we have started this nice Friday brunch that is different because we’re going to concentrate mostly on the kids,” started Bensouda. The new Friday brunch which opened at Citrus Restaurant last June 22 had kids in mind so more activities are being offered like face painting, balloons and bouncing castles.

“Summer has started and people are coming in from countries in the Middle East, the Gulf countries like Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia and they come here as families so we thought of creating something for families, to kids especially which is lacking here in Sharjah,” added Bensouda.

Aside from the Friday brunch, Bensouda revealed that upgrades will happen soon to Mojo and Shiraz restaurants. A fish market or a live station will be added in Mojo Restaurant where guests can select the ingredients for their favorite Thai food and give it to the chef who will cook it the way they want it.

“We’re going to upgrade Shiraz Restaurant by putting more decorations there, put a few more items outside probably the bread making to make it more exciting for people. People don’t

just come to eat, they need to come and have a nice ambience, a nice feeling in the restaurant,” he explained.

The Health Club will also be renovated to create a better spa ambience, with relaxation area, water or fountain, the basic elements of a spa.

Bensouda’s strong background in sales and marketing are his tools in getting the business up. He will use this expertise to maintain a higher rate for Millennium Sharjah and get a better yield.

“I would like to keep the hotel on a level that it deserves because it’s a five star property, it’s a beautiful property and it deserves a rate. I don’t want to cheapen it and start selling low price just to fill it up. My interest is the bottom line, the profitability, and if you sell at a higher rate even if you have low occupancy your profitability is high.”

Millennium Hotel Sharjah’s location is one factor that he believes sells the property to a lot of guests. It is the hotel’s greatest strength, he said, with its fantastic view of the lagoon plus the hotel’s ample parking, friendly staff and good food.

The emirate of Sharjah which offers a lot of cultural things for residents and guests is also a marketing factor. “Sharjah is a nice place to come. The main thing to go for Sharjah is to go for culture. You can also go for shopping here. We have a lot of malls which is as good as anyone in Dubai. So you can have your shopping, you can have culture if you’re looking for it, you can have beaches as well.”

“Sharjah is also a place for families who feel that their children will feel safer here, there’s no traffic jam like we have in Dubai. There’s not much traveling time from one place to another so Sharjah is a lovely place to be. It’s very close to Dubai if you want to go out and have the kind of fun that you want to have there and then go and come back in a nice environment, with no alcohol.”

So what do we expect from Millennium Sharjah in the next travel season? “We will do better, business wise, we will offer the clients more things to attract them here, staff will be happier to stay with us, there will be less turnover, and the clients will feel very comfortable and happy to come, they will talk about Sharjah and they will talk about the Millennium,” concluded Bensouda.

Fun-tastic

Summer Deals The long stretch of summer is here. By now, many have finalized their summer plans and a lot will surely travel outside the country to escape the heat. But for those who will stay behind or for those who have not decided yet where to go and what to do this summer, here are several promotions to check out.

32 I Travel Arabia I July

Al Bustan Rotana Hotel Treat yourself this summer with an unforgettable stay and dining experience at the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel.

The hotel is offering an exceptional 50 to 70 % summer discount on single and double occupancy rooms from 01st June till 13th October 2007 (excluding September 08th to 12th). All rooms are elegantly appointed with a full range of quality amenities to satisfy the most discerning business or leisure traveler.

When you decide to stay in one of the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel’s wellfurnished rooms and dine in the best restaurants in town, you will discover another fun-tastic package that is tailor-made especially for our guests. The Family Package includes special room rate, room taxes, airport transfers and delicious breakfast.

The promotions are subject to certain terms and conditions. For further information, please call +971 4 2820000.

Burjuman Rotana Suites Enjoy the city in style this summer and shop in Burjuman Mall with discounted vouchers at Burjuman Rotana Suites.

Book your summer vacation and win instant discount vouchers for the most prestigious brands in Burjuman mall. Check in to luxury suites and get these special discount vouchers at Burjuman mall

Burjuman Rotana Suites

and sample exotic culinary delights with your family at “The Gallery”.

Burjuman Rotana Suites represent metropolitan living in a great location for those who are uncompromising on quality and style. The design concept was to offer a contemporary but unique space by introducing inspiring art, stylish sculpture and distinctive pieces of furniture.

Whether you are coming with your family, for business or for leisure, enjoy summer in style and comfort at Burjuman Rotana Suites. For further information, please contact +971 4 508 7802.

Emirates Palace Emirates Palace is giving this summer season a refreshing twist for holiday makers from across the GCC, with exciting packages on rooms and suites as well as special rates on its newly unveiled Anantara Spa. The Magic Rates start at AED1,099* for single occupancy at Coral Rooms, and AED1,299* for Diamond rooms. Guests can also avail of special offers on Khaleej Suites starting at AED5,000* and Khaleej Deluxe Suites at AED6,000*. The rates are inclusive of breakfast and limousine transfers.

Emirates Palace recently launched its summer package for Anantara Spa, which boasts an array of therapies and treatments in a pristine Moroccan- and Thaiinspired ambience. Starting from

AED1499*, guests can avail of the special spa package, inclusive of a Deluxe Grand Room, a 60-minute Balinese spa massage or the option to choose from any of the spa’s extensive range of massage therapies. * Rates are subject to 10% service charge and 6% tourism fees and are valid until August 31st, 2007.

Magic Summer Rates include a late checkout at 6pm.

Intercontinental Mzaar, Lebanon This summer, refresh your senses at 2000m altitude and head to Lebanon’s most popular mountain resort, InterContinental Mzaar.

In this soothing haven, you can delay decisions, escape your cares and emerge relaxed and revitalized.

Flee the pressures of the city and take advantage of four new summer packages combining rejuvenation, summer fun and pleasure.

Choose from a Summer Breezethree refreshing nights, Summer Relaxation- one week, seven nights of comfort, Discover Lebanon, one week, seven nights of sightseeing, and Summer home package, to feel the comfort of home without the hassle of running one.

Are you eager to spend the summer season in the mountains with a 5-star genuine attention?

Ask for one of the 3-months summer home packages where you will enjoy the pleasures of spending your entire summer vacations in a

Al Bustan Rotana Hotel 5-star resort while taking advantage of all its facilities; from the 11 food and beverage outlets offering an exquisite dining palette to its indoor recreation center, refreshing swimming pool and numerous leisure activities.

For reservations, call +961 (0) 1 792111.

Jumeirah Emirates Towers Stay flexible at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai’s landmark hotel and benefit from special rates throughout July and August 2007, including complimentary access to Wild Wadi Water Park.

Stay in a Deluxe Room with prices starting from AED 750 per room per night on single occupancy.

Alternatively, take advantage of special rates on Tower Rooms from AED 1,100, and Club Executive Rooms from AED 1,450 per room per night.

Meeting and business facilities at their finest, culinary choices with a diversity of over 15 dining venues, shopping in the Boulevard, H2O The Male Spa, and a unique set of leisure facilities, all to be taken advantage of this summer.

Room rates are subject to 10% Municipality fees and 10% service charge. This offer is valid from 1 July to 31 August 2007. For

July I Travel Arabia I 33

more information, log on to www. jumeirah.com

Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa It is a well-known fact that the desert retains little or no heat at night; the temperature plummets when the sun goes down, making Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa the perfect place to enjoy authentic Arabian hospitality and entertainment when the heat gets too much this summer.

Special summer packages include complimentary spa treatments and a whole host of other attractive offers, with prices staring from AED 700++. Alternatively, book the All Inclusive package, which includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Al Forsan or Le Dune restaurant, for only AED 1500++.

For more information, please contact Jumeirah Bab Al Shams at tel: +971 4 809616 or email: JBASreservations@jumeirah.com

Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva

Visa

Head to Europe this summer to enjoy the best in climate and ambience. Geneva in particular is popular with travellers from the Middle East. As one of the most charming and naturally stunning cities in Europe, it offers a mix of old world charm, extraordinary

vistas and a chic modern lifestyle.

There are many options for accommodation in the city but the destination most suited to families on holiday and business travellers is undoubtedly the Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva. The 423 room hotel has an enviable location on the shores of Lake Geneva facing the stunning Jet d’eau fountain and close to key business districts and tourist attractions.

As a family destination Geneva has a lot to offer, with fascinating activities and sights for children such as the Marionette theatre and the mini train and more civilised pursuits for adults such as the nearby thermal springs, world class shopping and the famous Montreux Jazz Festival.

This summer the Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva is offering special summer interlude rates at AED 1,800 or CHF 595 per night for a superior room with breakfast.

The offer is valid from July through to September. Those who get in quick and stay at the hotel in June can avail themselves of the special soft opening rate of AED 1,330 or CHF 440, not including breakfast.

For bookings and inquiries call +41 229089081 or go to www.kempinski-geneve.com or reservations.grandhotelgeneva@ kempinski.com

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

Kempinski Hotel Ajman Kempinski Hotel Ajman is offering some irresistible dining and leisure options this summer, with a range of special promotions running from 1 June to 31 August to tempt guests and visitors alike.

Experience a refreshing dip in the Arabian Gulf or the hotel’s chilled swimming pool at the Laguna Beach Club before enjoying a sumptuous buffet brunch or lunch in Café Kranzler

The Fairmont Dubai

Emirates Palace

34 I Travel Arabia I July

Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

with Kempinski Hotel Ajman’s ‘Beach and Munch’ Deal. The offer is available every day from Saturday to Thursday at AED200 and on Friday at AED215.

Unique and fun, the ‘Summer Babies’ promotion gives a special treat to those born between 1 June and 31 August. Guest and visitors dining at Café’ Kranzler, Bukhara, Hai Tao or Sabellas during summer will be eligible for an age-related percentage discount – that is, 20 year olds dining during the month of their birthday in any of the four restaurants get a 20% discount; 30 year olds get 30%, and so on.

Presentation of valid ID as proof of age is required to avail of the promotion and the discount is applicable for up to 4 people per table.

Meanwhile, early diners in any of the restaurants receive a 25% discount of the total food bill not including beverages consumed with meals. To cater to its local clientele whose family may have gone home for the summer, the hotel has launched another unusual, but enticing promotion. The ‘Home Alone’ summer special entitles guests (and a sympathetic friend) to a special treat at the World Cup Sports Bar with a combo platter and two pints of beer for just AED 96.

These exciting offers, in addition to attractive summer room rates of AED 569 for single or AED 669 for double Sunday to Wednesday and 845 for a single and AED 945 for double deluxe from Thursday to Saturday, will no doubt only reinforce Kempinski Hotel Ajman’s position as the region’s favourite summer getaway destination. For more information, call +971 6 7145510.

Le Meridien Abu Dhabi Le Meridien Abu Dhabi invites UAE residents and visitors from the region to pack their bags and spend three relaxing, fun days away from home.

A choice of two exciting summer packages; the first consists of a romantic getaway for two; book a deluxe room for 3 nights including breakfast and pamper yourself with a 45 min spa massage for two and a dinner voucher to be redeemed during your stay just for AED 2,222 net.

A family pack is also available which includes 2 interconnecting deluxe rooms, a 45 minute spa massage for two and a lunch voucher to be redeemed during your stay just for AED 3, 999 net. For more information call +9712 6446666.

Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi Bring your children to the most exciting Summer Camp in town.

Let your child play and learn at the same time, enjoy the summer and build up his character at Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi.

Open to children 4 to 10 years old,

the summer camp will run from June 16 to August 16 and offers a wide range of activities to keep your kids busy this summer.

Prices include all activities, breakfast, lunch and soft drinks. A certificate to be awarded and a give away gift will be granted to each child at the end of the summer camp.

For more details and registration, please call “Le Club” at the Millennium Hotel 614 6000 ext.

7555.

Novotel and Ibis World Trade Centre From June 14 to October 12, Novotel and Ibis World Trade Centre Dubai are offering GCC nationals and residents really cool rates.

During this period the Novotel rooms will be offered for AED 450 per night, including breakfast in Entre Nous – the International AllDay Dining Restaurant. For those whom breakfast is not on top of the priorities list, Ibis will be offering the pleasure of staying for AED 333 only.

The packages for both hotels embrace a large variety of benefits such as airport transfer, shuttle services to and from shopping malls and discount vouchers for shopping malls.

For those visiting the city for Dubai Summer Surprises, both hotels will provide them with free shuttle buses to and from the event. Babysitting facilities are also available so parents can enjoy an undisturbed evening in one of the hotels restaurants. For more information call +971 4 310 8117.

The Ritz Carlton - Bahrain Deluxe Room

The Ritz Carlton - Bahrain

Shangri-La Hotel Beat the heat and escape to the cool surroundings of Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai. Stay overnight in an elegantly appointed deluxe room for only AED 699 ++. During your stay, dine in any of our chic restaurants or bars, chill out with an icy drink at the poolside or experience the ultimate in pampering at our exclusive spa.

This special offer will be available from July 1, 2007 to August 31, 2007.

The rate is subject to availability, 10% Municipality fees and 10% service charge. For reservations, please call (04) 405 2825 or email reservations.sldb@shangri-la.com

Sheraton Abu Dhabi The Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort is offering great summer deals during July and August 2007 for both visitors and residents.

The hotel includes a health & beach club, a Sea food restaurant “Il Paradiso” and a summer camp for children between 3 and12 years old, where they can enjoy playing, having fun all day long, with the different selection of programs that the summer camp is offering together with their preferable healthy food and drinks.

And for those who are looking for a Day-break, the Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort is offering a Day-use accommodation with a very special rate, where they can enjoy the hotel’s attractive facilities all daylong without a need to book an overnight stay.

The hotel is also offering other packages and promotions, including a weekend package (ThursdaySunday) at Dhs. 600 per night for a single room including breakfast. Not to forget is the Honeymoon package, family package and much more.

For more information call +971 2 677 3333.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Escape this summer from everyday life to a world of luxury, elegance and ultimately relaxation at The RitzCarlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa. From July 1 to August 31, The RitzCarlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa offers special summer rates. Rates per night for double occupancy range from BD499 for an exclusive villa, BD159 for a Club Suite Sea View, BD134 for a Club Sea View Room or BD85 for a Deluxe Sea View Room. The Great Summer Escape rates are subject to 20.75% tax and service charge, and are subject to rate and room availability at the time of booking.

July I Travel Arabia I 35

each with a hand-crafted mosaiclined pool.

Also this summer, guests making a reservation for a minimum of 10 guestrooms per night will receive a complimentary meeting room and day delegate package for all inhouse participants. For bookings, please call 04 311 8800.

Visa Wild Wadi Water Park For reservations or other enquiries call toll free bahrain 800 00995 or UAE 800 4789 or view the website at www.ritzcarlton.com

The Fairmont Dubai The Fairmont Dubai invites guests to spend the holidays in five star style. From 20 May to 31 August, guests are invited to the stay a two bedroom suite for two nights and will receive the third night courtesy of The Fairmont Dubai.

The Fairmont Dubai, located in the heart of city, is a 34-storey purpose-built property comprising of extensive business and leisure facilities - including 128 luxurious suites as well as its premium Fairmont Gold ‘hotel within a hotel’; 10 dining and entertainment venues, a 40,000 sq ft spa & health club with gym, aerobics room, treatment rooms, saunas & Jacuzzis; and two terrace sundecks

Visa’s Middle East cardholders planning a trip this summer or seeking a fine dining experience in the UAE can take advantage of special travel and dining offers with a host of world-class partners.

Visa cardholders can benefit from exclusive travel deals when paying with a Visa card at Marriott Hotels & Resorts, The Chedi Muscat – the exclusive beach resort, and Budget Rent a Car in addition to fine dining offers at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Jumeirah Beach Hotel and The Fairmont Dubai.

From May 3 to October 15, 2007, Visa cardholders booking a room at the Stay for BreakfastTM rate at any of the participating Marriott Hotels & Resorts properties worldwide will have the exclusive opportunity to be rewarded US$ 100 Bonus Bucks to be redeemed against the next consecutive twonight stay at any of its hotels around the globe.

Also open to all Visa cardholders, discerning travellers planning a getaway to the magnificent Hajar

mountain ranges of Oman, can avail of exclusive packages for a two-night stay at The Chedi Muscat.

From June 1 to September 30, 2007, cardholders booking their enticing two-night stay starting at OR 299 net for a Serai Superior Room will also receive breakfast for two, one dinner for two during the stay, 25% off spa treatments and the opportunity to upgrade to the Chedi Deluxe Room or Chedi Club Suite at a special discounted rate.

Furthermore, to provide extra value and complement hotel stays in the Middle East, Budget Rent a Car is offering Visa cardholders the opportunity to choose either a 25% discount plus a free upgrade or a 35% discount and the chance to win a free two-week car rental anywhere in Europe or the Middle East. The offer, valid from May 1 to September 30, is for car rentals in the GCC, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Yemen and Egypt.

Alternatively, Visa is offering a selection of fine dining offers to suit a range of palettes. From June 1 to September 30, 2007 cardholders can enjoy a three-course dinner at Mosaico in Jumeirah Emirates Towers for only AED 150 net per person with the flexibility to select the three courses of one’s choice from its popular a la carte menu featuring fine cuisine with an Italian twist.

GCC cardholders can visit www. visamiddleeast.com for more

Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa

36 I Travel Arabia I July

information on Visa’s exciting array of rewarding travel and entertainment offers for 2007.

Wild Wadi Water Park Wild Wadi Water Park is offering visitors the chance to cool off this summer. Sun-downer packages are now available with special rates for adults and children every evening, and children below the age of 2 get free admission into the park. Body boards and tubes are all provided at no cost, and free parking is also provided.

Regular Timings: 11.00 – 21.00.

Regular Pricing: AED 170 adults, AED 140 children below the height of 1.1 Free admission for children younger than 2 years old Sun-downer Timings: 18.00 – 21.00. Sun-downer Pricing: AED 140 adults, AED 110 children below the height of 1.1m Free admission for children younger than 2 years old For more information, please contact the Wild Wadi Sales Department at +971 4 4068394.

Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa At Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa, you don’t have to dream of a beautiful beach massage any more.

Sooth away your troubles with the sounds of the Indian Ocean, surrounded by the fresh sea air and accompanied by our specially trained beach masseurs, we allow you to drift into total relaxation.

Our massage tents are set directly on the beach offering seclusion with stunning scenery. Your exclusive program is a blend of Thai and Swedish massage, concentrating on your back, shoulders and your neck using only the finest exotic essential massage oils.

This fantastic beach massage lasts 30 minutes leaving you feeling rejuvenated, revitalized and reinvigorated.

Fujairah Rotana Resort and Spa is dedicated to making your dreams a reality.

For more information please call + 971 9 244 9888 or UAE toll free 800 ROTANA

ARABIAN GALLERY

Dead City of Serjilla - Syria

38 I Travel Arabia I July

July I Travel Arabia I 39

LIVING ARABIA

Keeping with

traditions

While travelling around Qatar, a land that has leapt quickly into the 21st century, it was apparent that its people, even while rushing into the modern world, were still conscious of their history and steeped in tradition. HABEEB SALLOUM’s trip to this heart of the Arabian Gulf reveals more.

40 I Travel Arabia I July

As your aircraft descends into Qatar, you are welcomed by the spectacular view of the capital city, Doha. The completely landscaped, crescentshaped Corniche, the sparkling blue waters of the Arabian Gulf and the sandy desert backdrop provide the first glimpse of what experience awaits you.

In spite of the oil wealth (with oil reserves of 13.2 billion barrels and gas reserves of 900 trillion cubic feet, second largest in the world after Russia) and the highest per capita in the world, Qataris still hold on to the Arab virtues of generosity, hospitality, honour and respect for guests. Should one be lucky enough to be invited to a Qatari home, the friendliness and generosity of the host will be boundless. These traditions, up-to-date tourist facilities and the country’s attractive modern architecture, influenced

by Qatar’s Arab-Islamic past, are drawing an ever-increasing number of tourists.

The appealing virtues of the inhabitants of this 11,437 sq km (4,416 sq mi) peninsula, jutting out 160 km (100 mi) into the Arabian Gulf, have been developed through the centuries. Stone age settlements dating back to 8,000 B.C. have been discovered in a number of places. In the classical age, the Greek historian Herodotus mentions that Qatar’s early inhabitants were Canaanites, reputed for their commercial and sea-faring skills. In the 7th century A.D., the country became a part of the Islamic world and has remained so ever since.

Beginning in the Middle Ages, Portuguese, Turks and

lastly the British fought for control of what was once an almost total desert land. On September 3rd, 1971, Qatar gained its independence and the road to building a modern nation began and has never stopped.

For untold centuries, the vast majority of the inhabitants lived off the sea. Fishing and pearling were the main sources of the country’s wealth. As recently as the early part of this century a fleet of over 800 dhows with some 13,000 sailors annually set to sea in search of pearls and fish. However, by the 1930s, Japanese cultured pearls had almost wiped out this industry.

The discovery of oil in 1939 came just in time to give work to the

international conferences, as well as luxurious tourist destination.

New factories, farmland, roads, schools, mosques and imposing villas became common features throughout the country. In less than a few decades, the country became a rich modern nation with extensive social benefits for all its inhabitants.

Doha, the capital where over half of Qatar’s 600,000 people live, is a fine example of how the country has been transformed. From a dusty small town, modern day Doha has become a delightful

This sun-kissed country is filled with possibilities – desert escapades and shopping extravaganzas; natural attractions and water sports, state-of-the-art sporting facilities and historical museums; all combined with fine dining and luxurious accommodations - reasons why they call Qatar the heart of the Arabian Gulf. mass of people who had lost their livelihood.

The Al-Thani family began its rule of Qatar in the 18th century and still today you can see the positive influences this family has on the growth and development of Qatar. When the present Emir, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa AlThani came to power in 1995, he brought a modern and positive approach that transformed the country into an ideal host for major sporting events and

metropolis of luxurious hotels and air-conditioned malls - eye-catching in its beauty.

Mile after mile of modern structures, many crowned with colourful domes and minarets and featuring other traditional Arabic patterns, are rimmed by tree-lined boulevards.

The National Museum, a delightful and renovated old palace built in Arab design; Al Bida Park, an oasis of greenery; the newly rebuilt Souq Waqif, the oldest souq in Doha; the Khalifa Tennis and Squash

IF YOU GO • Tourist visas are required in advance, except for citizens of the GCC and the UK. These can be obtained from Qatari Embassies abroad or via top class hotels and other sponsors submitting applications to the Immigration Department. Visas are usually given within 24 hours and are valid for 14 days. They can be extended for another 14 days.

• Qatar Airways is the country’s national airline and offers approximately 50 destinations from London to Bangkok.

Moving around Qatar is quite easy and there are several options available to visitors. Autos are reasonable in price to rent. The most economical method is the white and orange taxis.

• The U.S. dollar is equal to 3.65 Qatari Riyal (QR). The rate has remained the same for over two decades. Exchange cash or traveller cheques at the money exchangers. They give a better rate.

• No visitor should miss the chance to sample local Qatari specialties, especially fresh fish and seafood.

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Things to Do While in Doha

Oryx Farm and Equestrian Club The national animal of Qatar, the Oryx isn’t found anywhere else in the world in such large numbers.

Local tour operators can arrange visit to Oryx farm.

The beauty of the Arabian horses is well-known throughout the world. The pure-bred Arab show and race horses at Al Shaqab stud farm provide a great opportunity to enjoy these horses close-up.

Cruises and Water Sports Surrounded by the Arabian Gulf on three sides of the peninsula, there are plenty of opportunities for water sports and cruising. Two artificial reefs have been built for scuba diving and create a welcoming environment for marine life. Sailing is a wonderful pastime and several private companies offer dinghies and windsurfers for rent as well as sailing lessons for novice and experienced sailor.

Golfing For the enthusiastic golfer, a visit to the Doha Golf Club is a must. This 18-hole, 7,181 yard, par 72 championship course was designed by Peter Harradine and has played host to major international folding championships. There is also available a nine-hole floodlit academy course and a splendid clubhouse with three restaurants and a golf shop.

The long established Mesaiseed Gold Course also offers an outstanding course and has tennis courts and a swimming pool.

Desert Safari A trip to the inland sea, in the middle of the desert is a splendid way to spend the day. Experience tour operators add to the adventure by expertly steering their 4WDs up and down 60-metre sand dunes

along the way.

Corniche A stroll along the Corniche is a must during your stay. This seven-km stretch of coastline ruins parallel to the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf and is used by walkers and runners as well as the more adventurous roller-bladers. It offers a relaxing environment for family picnics and a nearby park for children. Fully landscaped with ample parking, the Corniche is the ideal place to unwind.

Cinemas For those who wish to catch the latest film there are several cinemas located in some of the large shopping centres, including the City Center, the Landmark and The Mall, as well as Gulf Cinemas on C Ring Road.

Ice Skating/Bowling The City Centre Doha has ice skating rinks where you can rent skates by the hour. Qatar Bowling Centre offers ten-pin bowling in a 32-lane facility, and the City Centre has two bowling alleys – one for ladies only.

Tennis and Squash Courts/Swimming Pools/Fitness Centres/Spas The major hotels offer a variety of facilities including tennis and squash courts, swimming pools and fitness equipment. After exercising, you can relax with a massage at the hotel’s health and spa facilities or make an appointment at one of the many Chinese and Indian massage centres.

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Other local specialities are: matchbous (spiced lamb with rice), and hareis (slow-cooked wheat and lamb). One of the top dining places to try Qatari food is the Balhambar Restaurant that prepares traditional Qatari dishes by local residents.

• Accommodations come in three to five star properties. Five star properties include Marriott Hotel, Four Seasons, Intercontinental, Ritz Carlton and Sheraton.

• The best time to travel to Qatar is from November to March when the climate is cool and pleasant.

For Further Information, Contact: Qatar Tourism Authority, P.O. Box 24624, Doha, Qatar. Tel: +974 4628 555. Fax: +974 4628 500. E-mail: info@qatartourism.gov.qa Website: www.qatartourism.gov.qa

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Complex, a sparkling white attractive Arab-type complex; the Post Office, seemingly out of the Arabian Nights; and the architecturally beautiful mosques, like the Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq and Omar bin Khattab Mosques; give a truly oriental aura to the city. Unlike in the majority of developing nations, the country’s engineers have absorbed the benefits of modern construction without rejecting the time-honoured method of building.

Crowning these appealing structures is the palm-lined 7 km (4 mi) Corniche, stretching along the city’s waterfront to anchor at the Majestic Doha Sheraton Hotel. Pleasant to saunter or jog along, it imbues the city with a sense of beauty, seduction and open space.

When one tires of strolling, a five minute taxi ride away is Aladdin’s Kingdom, an amusement park of greenery, fountains and rides, or the nearby Qatar University with its eyecatching architecture. On the other hand, if a traveller is enamoured with the creatures of the wild, Doha’s Zoo, with its large collection of animals, is only half an hour’s drive from the city centre. Also, there are Oryx farms - a permit is needed to visit these sanctuaries - where a large number of this endangered species roams free.

If a visitor yearns for the traditional, a short walk from the Corniche is the Moorish-style Al Koot Fort built by

the Ottomans and now an exhibition centre for local handicrafts. Outside its doors are the old and new souks with their wealth and variety of merchandise.

Here, a traveller can spend hours amid silks and spices in a world of oriental splendour.

Besides Doha and its appeal, there are a number of nearby towns well worth a visit. After bargaining, one can rent a taxi for around $15 an hour and travel for 20 minutes southward to Al-Wakrah - once Qatar’s main fishing and pearling town and noted for its traditional architecture and museum displaying marine life.

After viewing the town’s old minarets, fort and wind towers, Umm Said, 36 km (22 mi) from Doha is the next place to see. The country’s industrial capital, it is noted for its fertilizer, iron, steel, petrochemical and oil refining plants. Beyond, near Qatar’s southern border, there are mile after mile of huge sand dunes waiting for the sand skiing tourist.

To the north of Doha, Al-Khor, 57 km (35.5 mi) away, is an interesting place to visit. An old port with a harbour full of dhows, the town boasts a museum, an old market place and fine beaches. Another 50 km (31 mi) further north is Madinat Al-Shamal, located on the northern tip of Qatar; and the nearby Al-Zubarah, one of the most important historic sites in the country, known for its archaeological sites and its old fort, now housing a museum.

The Qatar National Hotels Company is largely responsible for developing the country’s tourist potentials, which annually draw about 400,000 visitors. The company efficiently administers a number of the country’s top hotels and the Khalifa Tennis and Squash Club and the Doha Golf Course and Club, one of the largest in the Middle East with a striking Arabian-style clubhouse. Other visitor drawing sites are a skating rink; Palm Tree Island Development, in the middle of Doha’s bay; and some 60 km (37 mi) to the south, the Umm Said Beach Resort.

Embellishing these sport outlets are the dhow cruises, desert safaris and hospitably of the people. Gracious to guests, Qataris welcome strangers like long lost relatives, making them feel at home.

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AMBIENCE

Fishing

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OUTSIDE ARABIA

A playground in the sun

In a class of its own, Pattaya is unique as a beach resort with city status. This once tiny fishing village has developed into a renowned international playground. Colourful and alive with activity, it is unrivalled as a beach resort, offering more attractions in greater profusion than any other single destination in Southeast Asia. HABEEB SALLOUM explores one of Thailand’s top resorts.

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Driving out of Bangkok through what must be the most congested traffic on earth, one would not think that just 147 km (91 mi) to the southeast is the resort of Pattaya. Dubbed ‘Jewel of the East Coast of Thailand’, it is synonymous with fun and pleasant restful beaches.

However, to reach Thailand’s premier seaside playground we had to undergo miles of nervewracking traffic jams. Of course, we could have chosen to travel by air, but we wanted to visit a crocodile farm and, at

stages of crocodile life, we passed very tame tigers, seemingly anxious to be photographed with tourists.

After taking snapshots with these what appeared to be gentle beasts, we entered a stadium to watch men wrestling crocodiles.

Unbelievably, two-men, after praying, taunted and played with dozens of these fierce-looking beasts, at times, placing their heads and arms in the crocodiles’ mouths.

When I asked a person sitting next to me why the crocodiles did not bite, he replied, “The men were not harmed because of their prayers.” More likely, the beasts were well fed, and all they wanted to do was sleep. In any case, it was an

from the sea, relatively grimefree buildings and the town’s cosmopolitan air made it easy to forget the bumper-­tobumper vehicles and the roar of passing motorcycles. Here, the maddening life of Bangkok and clogged highways were in another world.

Pattaya’s history as a resort only goes back to after the Second World War. The first Westerners to visit it were American servicemen who came in 1959. When they returned to their units and talked about its inviting sands, many others followed, especially during

The emphasis on Pattaya is more on activity than relaxation, and in addition to a host of water sports is an excellent choice of land-based activities, ranging from golf to horse riding, from archery to tennis. the same time, see some of the countryside.

It was stop and go, mostly stop, from our hotel in the heart of Bangkok until we reached Samutprakan Crocodile Farm and Zoo, located about 10 km (6 mi) from the city. The home of some 60,000 crocodiles, said to be the largest farm of its kind in the world, it owes its existence to Utai Youngprapakorn, a pioneer in preserving this endangered species and other wildlife from extinction. At the same time, the farm provides a continual flow of crocodile skins to the world market.

After touring the various

unforgettable experience.

From the crocodile farm we made our way through horrendous masses of vehicles on roads that in most parts of the world, would have been outdated years ago. The dust, diesel fumes and heat seemed to engulf everything. For the remainder of the way, the pollution was so bad that, with the exception of Buddhist temples that always appeared to be newly painted, all structures - many only shacks - were covered with dust and grime.

Nevertheless, all this was forgotten when we settled down in our hotel in Pattaya, the country’s premier beach resort. The breezes blowing in

the Vietnamese War when the Resort of Pattaya was truly born.

From that humble beginning, when the first GI walked its virgin beaches, it has come a long way, developing into an international playground - the largest beach resort in South East Asia, incorporating action and glamour.

Today, it is Thailand’s most developed beach destination, with a skyline, dominated by modern sky scrappers, 200 of which are modern hotels offering some 25,000 rooms. Annually, a million tourists from the four corners of the globe stroll on

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its streets and shop in its souvenirfilled stores or relax on its beaches.

Pattaya Beach, almost 4 km (2.5 mi) long and edging the town, was the first of the sands developed. The northern part is a relatively quiet area while the southern section is alive with the hustle and bustle of tourist action. For water sport enthusiasts, the 6 km (3.6 mi) long Jomtien Beach, one of the several beaches 4 km (2.4

golf courses, and facilities for pony trekking, a shooting range, squash and tennis courts and health clubs, featuring all types of massages. In addition, theme and amusement parks such as Mini Siam and Pattaya Park, offbeat museums and lush botanical gardens offer other forms of leisure activities and cultural entertainment.

At night, the resort oozes the allure and magic of a truly nightlife.

Indeed, to the basic ingredient of a superb coastal location, Pattaya adds just about every other amenity you can think of - recreation, entertainment, sightseeing and simply fun. mi) south of the city, is the major locale for water activities.

Adding to the lure of the sea, just 45 minutes ride by slow-boat or 15 minutes by speedboat is Ko Lan, the largest of the nearby coral islands. Visited by almost all tourists staying in Pattaya, it has numerous sheltered white sandy beaches - restful alternatives to the city’s crowded sands. Here, visitors can parasail, scuba dive, snorkel, water ski, windsurf, deep sea fish, view coral reefs or just romp in the island’s clearblue waters.

For other sports, in and around the city, there are numerous scenic

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Never-ending fun and thrills takes over until early dawn. There are some 300 restaurants and more than a thousand bars and go-go joints in the city. A number of the entertainment places cater to all tastes, from explicit sex performances to shows featuring males dressed and acting as women.

The most famous of these is a transvestite show held at the Alcazar, rivalling such renowned nightclub performances as those held in Las Vegas in the U.S.A. or La Tropicana in Cuba.

For us, the highlight of our Pattaya vacation was a visit to the Nong Nooch Orchid Wonderland, a

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How To Get There: The best way to travel to Pattaya is to join an organized tour from the neighbouring countries or Bangkok. Pattaya is a 2 ½ hour drive from Bangkok. Every tourist hotel in Bangkok has a tour company representative. Also, air-conditioned express buses, limousines and trains link Bangkok to Pattaya.

Facts About Pattaya: 1) A good time to travel to Pattaya is during April when a weeklong festival is celebrated with a wide-range of parades, beauty contests, concerts, food festivals, fireworks and an exciting series of sporting events.

2) Beware of driving a rented auto. Traffic seems to overwhelm an inadequate road system. Remember - driving is on the left. It is easy to travel around Pattaya. Mini buses ply the whole length of the beach on a continual basis.

3) The Thai unit of currency, the Baht, is not fixed to any other currency, but rather fluctuates with world market rates.

4) The weather is hot all year-round and only light clothing is needed. The best time to travel to Thailand is during the cool season (December to February) when the weather is comfortable - temperatures averaging about 26C/80F. 5) Thais are friendly, modest and likeable, but they have a few taboos - do not touch a Thai on the head, even to express fondness and all public display of affection such as hugging and kissing are frowned upon.

6) Pattaya offers an incredible choice of accommodations to suit every pocketbook.

From some of Asia’s finest luxury abodes to the basic simplicity of guesthouses - Pattaya has them all. See websites: http://www.hoteltravel. com/thailand/pattaya/hotels.htm and http:// www.hotelthailand.com/pattaya/pattaya.html 7) Thai food is internationally famous, tasty and delightful. The country’s cuisine is essentially a marriage of centuries-old Eastern and Western influences harmoniously combined.

8) There is a departure tax of 500 baht for all those departing on flights leaving Thailand.

For Further Information. Contact: Tourism Authority of Thailand, 1600 New Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathewi , Bangkok 10400, THAILAND. Tel: 66 2250 5500. Fax: 660 2250 5511. E-mail Address: center@ tat.or.th Website: http://www.tourismthailand.org or Tourism Authority of Thailand, Middle East Representative Office, P.O. Box 13142 Suite 304, Bu Haleeba Plaza, Muraqabaat Road, Deira, Dubai, U.A.E. Tel.: +971 4 2661896. Fax: +971 4 2662975. www.thaitourismarabia.org

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243 ha (600 ac) beautifully landscaped country resort, a 20 minute ride south-east of Pattaya. After roaming through its well-manicured flower gardens, set on an island and around an artificial lake, we sat down to watch one of the finest cultural shows in the country.

Traditional Thai boxing, music and folk dances; cockfights, martial arts performances, sword fighting and a typical wedding ceremony were capped by an incredible elephant performance, featuring two dozen well-trained animals. It was a dazzling and thrilling presentation - a hilarious form of pachyderm burlesque. After the performance, I agreed wholeheartedly with my friend who remarked, “This must be the greatest show on earth.”

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ATTRACTIONS

Family Holidays at

Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea Family holidays can be a difficult experience; trying to please everyone and keep the kids entertained whilst taking time out to relax is no easy feat. During the summer season as the UAE heats up and many people escape to more tolerable climates, there are a surprising number of destinations that make for fantastic family holidays without the hassle of traveling long distances.

The Dead Sea in Jordan is one such destination. The journey to this unique spot, one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the world, can be made via a short trip from any major airport in the Middle East with an easy transfer from Queen Alia International Airport.

Hailed by some as the eighth natural wonder of the world due to the high mineral concentrations of the water and oxygen rich air at 1400 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea has a unique combination of factors that make it a remarkable family tourist attraction - stunning landscapes, historical sightseeing, adventure activities, spa and wellness facilities, luxurious accommodation and of course the extraordinary experience of floating in the Dead Sea itself.

Resorts at the Dead Sea are plentiful, but the latest and most well-appointed is without a doubt the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, which is now touted as the regions best new hotspot for relaxation, wellness and adventure. With a total of 318 rooms and suites, the resort is comprised of Ishtar Villas and a newly opened Arabesque style building, with a theme and feel of the glory days of Babylon.

Sprawling along the shores on the Jordan Valley, each room or suite features luxurious contemporary dĂŠcor and outdoor balcony or patio with uninhibited views over the sea.

Complimentary amenities include free mini bar, high speed wireless internet, local newspaper, exclusive Dead Sea bathroom products, VIP welcome tray, daily fruit and water supplies, kids VIP welcome pack, and farewell Ishtar gift.

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Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea Swaimeh, Dead Sea Road, Dead Sea, Jordan.

Tel: +962 5 356 8888 Fax: +96 2 5 356 8800 www.kempinski-deadsea.com

Also available for a charge are laptops, iPods and full butler services.

A selection of dining and lounge venues, serve an exquisite range of ethnic and international cuisines and refreshments to suit everyone’s taste and for the kids there are special children’s menus to keep them smiling.

Beyond structures and amenities, the resort has a plethora of leisure and adventure opportunities perfect for family vacations. Boasting the longest private beach in Jordan, Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea offers families plenty of water-based leisure activities, both on the beach or in any of the hotel’s nine outdoor fresh water swimming pools. Aquatic entertainment abounds with stylish infinity edge pools, fully supervised children’s pool and lazy river, and secluded private pools for moments of quiet reflection.

Adults can escape for some well deserved rest and relaxation at the boutique Anantara Spa which offers an indulgent selection of treatments from the Dead Sea and across the globe, particularly Thailand. The recently opened and fully supervised Kids Club will keep the smaller members of the family entertained with bouncy castles, Lego, movies and daily events and outdoor activities.

Balmy evenings can be spent strolling in extensive hotel grounds which are designed in tribute to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon with groves of olive trees and palms and dotted with lagoons, waterfalls and private pools.

Although relaxation and wellness are the main highlights of any guest’s stay at the hotel, its strategic location affords other family members plenty of opportunities for other exciting escapades, such as Wadi excursions, mountain biking, horse riding.

If you are able to tear yourself away from the hotel there are countless historical sights right on the doorstep.

The hotel’s concierge service can arrange for day trips to some of the top local attractions including the baptism site of Jesus, Madaba, known as the ‘City of Mosaics’, the ancient city of Petra, Mt Nebo and Wadi Mujib, a deep and majestic canyon that cuts through rugged highlands and drains into the Dead Sea and only 20 minutes from the hotel. The Mujib Reserve offers four beautiful trails for visitors: two dry land walking trails and two river trails that involve walking, swimming and abseiling down waterfalls!

With still more leisure and recreational facilities to be launched late this year, including a bowling alley and an auditorium, Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea is fast becoming not just a wellness hub, but a complete recreation and leisure hideaway for the entire family.

Summer rates start at AED 830 for a Superior room in the main building.

Single children under 12 staying in the same room as parents are free, whilst rooms occupied by a maximum of three children are charged at single occupancy rate. Children are eligible for discount on most meals.

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PROPERTY

An oasis of greenery Somewhere in the heart of the Arabian Desert lies a community that clearly defines and upholds the true meaning of its name – the Green Community.

Covering 67 lush hectares of residential, leisure, retail and commercial properties, the Green Community prides itself on its modern and beautiful surroundings with natural greenery comprising about 40 percent of the total area.

Here, there are thousands of trees and a variety of flowers, even the streets were named after them.

Landscaping is different for every lane and there are big open spaces where families can relax at night and if you need a place for a birthday or wedding, the amphitheater is huge to accommodate your guests.

Green Community aims to provide a way of life within a working and living secure community which encompasses landscaped gardens, stone streets and a relatively traffic free environment. It offers residents a unique way of living outside the city.

There are a total of 719 residential units in Green Community East, composed of 310 town house units, 75 family villas, luxury villas, 216 garden apartments, 56 terrace apartments and 52 lake apartments. Town house units come in two-storey buildings and are clustered in three, four and five units.

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The apartments offer studio, one and two bedrooms. The terrace apartment gives a wonderful view of the lake.

The community is a 15-minute drive from Ibn Batuta Mall, 20-minute drive from the Mall of the Emirates and 30-minute drive from Sheikh Zayed Road.

Green Community includes various services for its residents including The Market, a friendly and pleasant shopping centre, located within walking distance of Green Community residences and offers a wide range of retail outlets and restaurants.

It is self contained, convenient and fully facilitated promising the most stress-free and enjoyable shopping experience. “The Market” can serve every individual’s needs and wants with an array of retail units occupied

by Coffee shops to Restaurants, Supermarket to Banks, entertainment outlets to Gifts and Book shop, hair salon for ladies and gents to a Pharmacy, and a medical clinic as well.

The Courtyard by Marriott Dubai Green Community, beautifully located amongst picturesque parkland and the community’s crystal blue lake, offers premium services at a moderate

price and is the ideal choice for the frequent business travelers. The hotel offers 165 spacious, well appointed rooms, including, 4 junior suites and 6 executive suites, all of which feature Marriott’s plush new bedding, spaciously designed work areas with data ports, high speed internet connectivity, mini bar, and in-room coffee making facilities. Guest leisure facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, children’s pool, fully equipped gymnasium and Jacuzzi.

The Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai, Green Community is surrounded by 67 hectares of magnificently landscaped parkland and offers a quiet, secure and accessible location near central Dubai and Jebel Ali. Connected to the Courtyard by Marriott hotel, these beautiful serviced apartments have been designed to provide the amenities and services afforded by a hotel and the privacy and comforts of home.

Each 1- and 2-bedroom residence features a fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, a dedicated work area with high-speed Internet and balconies or terraces overlooking the lake. There are tempting dining options, with all-day dining at The Pine Grill and authentic Tuscan cuisine at Cucina, the Italian Kitchen. Leisure time can be spent in the fitness center, the outdoor pool or strolling down the stylish shopping and dining boulevard.

A well-resourced Nursery for children aged 2 and a half years to 5 years old at Green Community is purpose built to the highest standards of exterior and interior design thus ensuring a safe, inspiring and happy environment for children. The Children’s Garden is founded on an enthusiasm nurtured over many years spent working with young children, observing the ways in which they process information and appreciating their phenomenal learning potential.

Green Community is a quality development by Properties Investment LLC, a joint venture company between Union Properties PJSC and Dubai Investments PJSC. Currently, the Green Community West which is to be completed by 2009 will offer a total of 836 units, with 580 villas and 256 apartments.

FACE TO FACE

Taking advantage of the opportunities

In the coming months, changes will be seen at Moevenpick Hotel Bur Dubai with the opening of an additional 24 executive rooms, an upgraded internet system, a new rooftop gymnasium and an adjacent Moevenpick Residence with 57 apartments. Keeping track of these improvements and managing the hotel keep Michael Nugent, General Manager, busy. Here, he talks about the challenges, successes and some trade secrets.

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Summer may be a lean season for some hotels and businesses in Dubai but for Moevenpick Hotel, it will be busy.

Aside from the yearly promotions, the property will undergo major expansions starting this summer to keep up with the demands of the market.

The hotel will build an additional 24 executive rooms which is scheduled to open in November; plans are underway for a new rooftop gymnasium; an ongoing internet upgrade; and the conversion of a building next to the hotel to be known as Moevenpick Residence which will also open its doors in February of 2008.

“The new rooms have been planned for some time now. We felt a need for more executive floor rooms and we have space on the rooftop to build them.

The city is buoyant at the moment and trading conditions are extremely good so if we don’t do it now we will miss the opportunity,” said Michael Nugent, General Manager.

“Our owners have acquired a building next to the hotel which will be

known as the Moevenpick Residence, with 57 apartments of one-, two- and three bedrooms. We are currently in the process of preparing to take that building over and convert it to hotel specifications and standards. We will actually run it effective the 1st of February so the signage will be in place in January and from the 1st of February onwards it will be known as the Moevenpick Residence,” he added.

The expansion plans were set to serve the increasing business and corporate clients of the hotel as well as transiting passengers whom the hotel currently caters to, not only during summer, but the whole travel season.

“I think the success of this hotel has been that we do spread our market out.

We don’t just focus on one sector. We try to focus on the tour groups, the incentive groups that are coming in. Obviously the corporate and business market and also the GCC traveller and this is where we see the 57 apartments as being a big benefit for us next year because obviously, it’s a very strong market.”

GM FACT FILE

Nationality: Irish Years with Industry: 28 years Years with Moevenpick: 18 months.

Nugent observes that regardless of the heat or the temperature in Dubai, it is still a very attractive destination. “In many destinations around the Middle East, as soon as the temperature rises, everybody runs away but Dubai has such a range of things going on over the summer. Dubai is offering a tremendous amount of attractions. It’s an excellent short break destination.”

“There are a lot of things to keep families occupied in Dubai. Obviously we have all the shopping malls, we have the skiing and to be honest a lot of the

and wide. Because we are all dollar pegged, travel to Europe, travel to London, travel to Paris, travel to Germany or everywhere has become very expensive.”

Nugent is optimistic that the next travel season will still see Dubai as busy and packed because of the upcoming shows, exhibitions, trade fairs and festivals. “DTMC and Emirates are doing an incredible job of bringing people to this city. The new airport is getting near the stage of opening and all the hoteliers are very upbeat for the rest of this year and the coming year.”

“The part of the job that I enjoyed most is trying to keep people happy and motivated and it pays you back ten-fold, but unfortunately, sometimes in businesses, in this industry as much as anybody else we tend to forget that.”

European markets are quite happy to come to Dubai, a lot of the Far East markets as well. Temperature really is not a major factor for them,” he pointed out.

“Summer is traditionally a holiday period for our residents and we would expect that within August we’ll see a lot of locals and expatriates disappearing but I think it would be fully covered by the incoming guests.”

Travelling has also become expensive so Nugent believed that a lot of people would rather spend their money within the GCC than travel abroad. “In the past, a lot of GCC nationals used to travel far

“I think with the continued passenger movement there will be a lot of movement in the city. I think what we will see is an adjustment in occupancies and adjustment in rates.”

“With all these in mind, I think all of us should take care of our customers extremely well. We should take care of our corporate plans extremely well because there will be an awful lot of choices in the city but is that a bad thing, personally speaking no. I think it’s good for Dubai. But I think we have to be very very careful indeed not to become an over priced destination”.

Why did you join Moevenpick?

“To be part of a smaller team that is growing extremely fast. Moevenpick is genuinely and totally about people. From the highest level, from the chairman and from the board of directors, the only message that we got was people, people, people. It is that human capital, as they call it the human software that makes the difference.”

What is the greatest strength of your property?

“A lot of customers said the reason they stay with us is the fact that it’s smaller, it’s more familiar and they feel comfortable and what we’re trying to do is capitalize on that. Customer perception.”

What has been your biggest challenge in running the property?

“Retention and recruitment of our team. The single biggest challenge is reducing turnover in the hotel because there’s a massive cost to have to recruit and bring new people on board. It is much better to keep the people you’ve got who are loyal to you and who knew the customers and the customers know them.

Are you an environmental-friendly hotel?

The hotel was well designed and energy efficient. We also have Mr. Energy, one of our engineering staff who is responsible for going around the hotel, making sure that we are being energy efficient, we’re not leaving airconditioning on on empty banquet rooms and not leaving lights on. I’ve contacted the Emirates Environmental Group and am waiting on a response from them to look at ways to try and reduce our wastage. I think it’s fair to say other countries are ahead of us, if you go to UK, if you go to Germany, Australia, they are extremely environmentally aware, but here it’s moving in the right direction and I think it’s very positive.

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General Hotels Management has a specific goal General Hotels Management (GHM) are a relatively young company, but is already proving itself to be involved in the development of the more innovative and unique hotels around the globe, including South Beach Miami, Malaysia, Goa, Vietnam, California, Milan, Muscat and Chiang Mai. With a number of new projects in the pipeline on both sides of the Atlantic, Travel Arabia talks to Mr. Manvinder Puri, GHM’s Vice President of the Americas about the company’s philosophies, goals and place in an evermore competitive and expanding market.

TA: Who are General Hotels Management?

MP: The company was founded in 1992 and it was the chairman of the company, Adrian Zecha, who is also the founder and Chairman of Aman Resorts – our sister company. GHM was born out of a need where people would come to Adrian and say, “I’d like to do a 120 room hotel”. And he has a rule or a policy where Aman’s (hotels) will never be more than 40 rooms. So in the beginning he said, “Sorry, no we can’t do it”, then eventually he said, “maybe there’s another way”. And that was the genesis of GHM. So now GHM hotels have a similar ethos because Adrian is the majority shareholder. We do hotels that are 60, 80, 120 room hotels – in fact, I think we have a hotel in Kuala Lumpur which is around 300 rooms. For over 15 years we’ve got about 16 or 17 hotels and several other developments. It’s a growth story that is good, but it’s also very specific because we are design, product and service oriented.

60 I Travel Arabia I July

TA: How does GHM function?

MP: We get involved with companies who are interested in doing hotels. So let’s say you’re a developer and as part of that development you want to build a hotel.

You need somebody to operate the hotel.

You can choose from one of the plethora of brands such as Starwood, Hilton, Sheraton or Hyatt, or you can choose to do something that is more exclusive, if you’re looking for something that is ultraluxury – because what we do is much more bespoke and personalised.

TA: So you work with the developer?

MP: Yes. We start controlling or being fully engaged in the design process, because we are very design oriented.

There are only 3 or 4 things that make for a great hotel. Location is number one – if you don’t have a good location then you’re in trouble. However, as long as you have a great product you can overcome the location because people will still seek you out. So product is number two and service is number three. You have to have these three together. If you don’t, it won’t work. You can be in a moderate location and people will still come because of the product and service.

TA: So when you design the hotels and resorts how much of the location come into your thinking? Is there a great difference between a resort you might build in Goa or Miami?

MP: Absolutely. Goa is a destination resort. When you go there it’s to totally relax. You might never leave the resort: you want to be able to lie by the pool or beach, read, play golf, spa treatments, dine etc. So it’s all self-contained, and that’s where the amenities of the hotel become most important. Then you take Miami which is an urban resort. South Beach is where the world comes to play or you go there for Art Basel or the MTV Music Awards… but fundamentally your needs are totally different. So what we’ve tried to create is an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of South Beach where there is literally everything at your doorstep. You don’t need to have everything you would

at a destination resort. If you go to the Maldives and you’re on an atoll, if there isn’t good food there what are you going to do?

TA: Are the amenities and facilities in the hotels themselves rated?

MP: Yes. Although, once again you have to be careful about ratings. Everybody and their brothers have become selfproclaimed authorities. I think the real gauge is what do the guests say when they’re with you and what is your repeat guest ratio.

TA: What’s in the immediate pipeline for GHM? MP: As I mentioned, our growth is very controlled and we want to keep it that way. Plus, in this world of all these products that are happening, we believe that there needs to be some sensibility and create a guest experience that is really special for the discerning traveller. So we will grow organically and slowly.

TA: Are there plans for the UAE? MP: Yes, there are plans. We’re adding a couple of things in Oman. Just recently I’ve had interest from another project in Oman, Qatar, Abu Dhabi, a couple in

Dubai, and Jordan. Because of what we do it’s important that we pick our partners and our projects very carefully. So we are able to create what we are all about.

For instance, we spoke to someone from Dubai who already has an architect and designer. So the first thing I ask is, “How flexible are you with the designs?” You know, because our guests come to expect a certain level of product from us which is uniquely different.

TA: There are some projects for Abu Dhabi which are very like desert oases.

Is that the kind of thing you would consider?

MP: I think a couple of the projects are going to be like the Al Maha, which is quite a fantastic-looking project. And then there’s another where they’ve got the whole thing on stilts like something from the Maldives. The focus in Abu Dhabi seems to be different from that of Dubai, and our hotels need to complement the environment. When you go to a new development and someone starts chopping down the trees: those trees were there before you got here, they’ll be here after you leave, so leave it alone. A 200 year old oak tree – leave it for the next generation.

TA: Is that partly the ethos of GHM? MP: Exactly. We all run to find these oases of nature. The world is chasing the ocean – two thirds of the earth is water, and we still can’t seem to get enough of it. And as hard as we try we can never emulate nature.

FASHION

Lacoste Hot Play and Touch Of Spring Inspired by the energy of colour, Lacoste presents two new limited edition fragrances for him and her - Lacoste Hot Play and Lacoste Touch of Spring.

Lacoste Hot Play is for men who want to maintain their focus for the challenge. Presented in a bottle that is reflective of the summer heat, Lacoste Hot Play is a warm stimulating fragrance that is simply a pleasure

to wear. Lacoste Touch of Spring is a revitalizing floral green fragrance in a fresh, green bottle which will inspire you to express your female creative vitality.

Our most important energy source is light and it is the only energy we can see. Light consists of seven colour energies, with each colour being connected to various areas of our body and affecting us differently

Sony Gulf launches the New WALKMAN

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– emotionally, physically and mentally. Orange and green are key colors making an emergence in Spring/Summer 2007 collections.

Orange energy is about focus, physical energy and intellect. Green energy is associated with Spring, creation and vitality – all epitomized by the ingrediants of Lacoste Hot Play and Touch of Spring.

For the first time you can experience spectacular video footage along-side high quality audio with the new WALKMAN Video MP3 player NW-A800 series from Sony. This stylish, slim line WALKMAN offers an unparalleled visual and audio experience without compromising on screen size. Available in three memory sizes (2GB, 4GB & 8GB) and with a thickness of only 8.3mm and weighing a mere 53g, it is the ideal portable MP3 player for music and video lovers.

The WALKMAN Video MP3 player is small enough to slip into any bag or pocket, with a colour-rich 2-inch QVGA (320 x 240 pixels) colour TFT LCD screen that offers unbeatable clarity, high contrast and supreme colour reproduction. Video footage can be viewed on the screen both

horizontally and vertically to further enhance the entertainment experience.

Downloading video content is easy with a simple drag and drop mechanism video playback supports the widely used MPEG-4 and high quality codec of AVC (H.264/AVC) Baseline profile formats, at up to 30 frames per second. File conversion, if needed, can be achieved via the supplied ImageConverter 3 software.

The WALKMAN Video MP3 player is available in three memory sizes; 2GB, 4GB and 8GB and there are four colour options; violet, black, white and pink. A range of stylish cases are available for when you are on the move.

For example, the clear polycarbonate CKH-NWA800, works to protect the WALKMAN and its wide screen against scratches, damages and dust whilst providing easy access to control buttons, WM-PORT, strap-hole and headphone jack.

The new Walkman A800 series is available in the UAE at the following prices: NW-A805 (2GB model): AED 699/; NW-A806 (4GB model): AED 899/; NW-A808 (8GB model): AED 1099/For more information, please visit www.sony-mea.com/walkman

Danier Leather opens in UAE

Romulus

Danier Leather, a well established leather brand from North America, opened at the Festival Centre in Dubai Festival City. The brand offers an extensive range of leather apparel and accessories.

Contemporary and truly fashionable, the Danier collection of leather and suede includes jackets, skirts, wallets and handbags, in a variety of colours and styles. Fashioned in Canada with workmanship inspired by global fashion trends, the products are mostly made of premium Italian lamb leather.

Apart from the variety in leather and suede textures, Danier’s uniqueness lies in the multitude of colours that is virtually designed to suit every individual’s style and preference. The store has launched itself with the Spring/Summer collection that has a customer spoilt for choice.

While authenticity remains at the forefront of leather and suede, chalky matte texture continues to provide the modern finish to the collection. The collection has also incorporated Lamb bedero that provides soft supple skin with hand staining effect that highlights the detailing in the apparel and accessories.

SANYO Xacti HD2 SANYO Xacti HD2 – the world’s smallest and lightest HD video camera is now available in the UAE. With a new 7.38-megapixel CCD image sensor, the camera combines the functionality of a 720p HD digital camcorder and 7.1-megapixel digital still camera into one pocket-sized device. A follow-up to the innovative and multi-award winning HD1 and HD1a series, the Xacti HD2 also supports a new HDMI digital interface, built into the unit’s docking station, enabling an all-digital output to HDTV’s and high-definition video recorder devices.

Lightweight at only 235g ounces (including battery and SD card), the HD2 features a generous and highly efficient 10x optical zoom lens.

Combined with a 10x digital zoom capability, the HD2 is capable of a total 100x zoom.

The HD2 features a 2.2-inch LCD display with 210,000 total pixels for exceptionally clear viewing. The display flips out from the camera and rotates up to 285 degrees and enables users to take great video or still images.

The legendary Romulus by CORUM, returns in a splendid new royal garment crafted from solid gold and interpreted in a classic design radiating an elegant strength that fascinates at first glance. The delicate satinbrushed finish of the bezel sets off the hand-engraved Roman numerals to sublime effect.

The “wave” profile of its bezel creates the impression of an undulating elliptical shape, smoothly integrated with the exceptionally ergonomic lines of a superbly elegant case and accentuated by the sloping lugs ensuring an extremely pleasant feel on the wrist.

The shaped sapphire crystal, cambered on top, curved below and featuring an anti-reflective coating, protects a black or grey dial adorned with a sunrayguilloché motif radiating out

The SANYO Xacti HD2 is priced at AED 2,399 and Al-Futtaim Electronics is offering customers a free 2GB memory card as part of its launch offer.

from the centre of the small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock with its gold appliques arranged on three levels.

The main dial, graced with 3 gold appliques, also features a rectangular aperture a 3 o’clock displaying the date, while the applied-gold CORUM brand-name and its famous key logo appear at 12 o’clock.

Water-resistant to 3 atm (30 meters), the case-back is secured by six screws and fitted with a glareproofed sapphire crystal enabling one to admire the oscillating weight of the selfwinding movement decorated with a guilloché “Côtes de Genève” finish and engraved with the name CORUM. Beneath this remarkably beautiful and exquisitely finished exterior beats the heart of an exceptional movement

meeting the highest standards of Haute Horlogerie: a 28,800 vph twin-barrel Piguet caliber with a power reserve of up to 72 hours! The surfaces and bevels on the bridges and plates are hand-chamfered, before being diamond-polished and rhodiumplated.

This Romulus watch in 5N (rose) or white gold is worn on a full-grain hand-sewn black crocodile leather strap with 100% square scales, complete with a stylized CORUM 18K classic pin buckle featuring a unique design; or on an 18kt gold bracelet with satin-brushed links contrasting with the brilliant-polished outer edges and secured by a gold folding clasp equipped with a double lateral-pushbutton safetyfastening mechanism.

July I Travel Arabia I 63

DINING

Unmistakably tempting Restaurants in the UAE offer tempting dishes to satisfy even the most meticulous appetite. Whether you prefer a five-course meal at a five-star hotel, a buffet of international dishes or a light snack at a cafĂŠ, there is a meal prepared for every one.

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Madinat Jumeirah

Al Murooj Rotana

Al Bustan Rotana Hotel Come Prima Restaurant, the cozy Italian Restaurant at the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel makes summer a refreshing experience as its Master Chef prepares the most delectable salads of the season.

Salads do not serve only as starters. Enjoy a sumptuous full meal this summer by simply tossing together grilled prawns, calamari, kalamata olives, Marjoram Vinaigrette, and summer vegetables of your choice. This delectable fare is an excellent source of all the nutrients and energy needed to beat the summer heat.

Feasting on salads can be an enjoyable experience this summer when presented with not so common ingredients. Gravadlax is salmon marinated in selected spices to produce a distinctive flavour. Fennels are culinary herbs of the parsley family.

These two mixed together with red radish, red chili, chives and Summer Mesclune Leaves with Citrus Vinaigrette and served in a Martini glass make up for

an awesome salad treat. For further information please contact +971 4 2820000.

Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites Famous for its authentic North Indian cuisine, Zaika restaurant in Al Murooj

having individual of sharing portions for curry dishes and majority of kebabs. The main focus is made on highlighting home-style North Indian type of cooking, mostly reflected in the selection of mouth watering curries.

The selection of breads will offer “Roomali Roti” (handkerchief thin bread) and “Missi Roti” from Punjab. At the same time, the new menu gives a sneakpick to specialities from other regions of India. While starters offer to try “South Indian Platter”; curries & stir-fries section feature “Daab Chingri” (shrimps cooked in coconut & mustard curry and finished in coconut shell) from Calcutta, “Chicken Chettinaad” from South of India and all time favourite “Dal Bukhari”. The menu is crowned by variety of exquisite desserts like “Kulfi” and “Rabri Falooda”.

The restaurant is open for lunch from 12:00 noon till 3:00 pm and dinner from

Marriott Dubai

Rotana Hotel & Suites has revamped its menu introducing new dishes and bringing up new flavours from rich and vibrant palette of Indian cooking.

With the arrival of a new menu, diners can opt for

7:00 pm till 11:30 pm seven days a week.

Chill out every Friday with your family in spacious settings of Pergolas Restaurant with the choice of two unbeatable packages.

The first one is at AED 139* net per person including soft

drink and mineral water. The second package is priced at AED 159* net per person including unlimited selected beverages. Children between 5 and 12 years get 50% discount, and under 5 years eat for free.

The sumptuous buffet menu features a wide spread of masterfully prepared dishes from around the world with various live cooking stations. The parents will be able to enjoy their meal while their children are kept busy with plenty of specially organized activities, such as face painting, bouncy castles, visit of a clown and lots more.

The Brunch is available from 12:00 noon till 4:00 pm. The price is inclusive of 10% Municipality fees & 10% service charge. For reservations and more information please call (04) 3211111, ext. 2202.

Courtyard by Marriott Dubai Green Community Enjoy the diverse flavours of Italy at Cucina in Courtyard by Marriott Dubai Green Community. From 1st until 31st of July, experience a journey of dishes from various regions of Italy such as Toscana, Lombardia, Umbria and Veneto.

The menu includes traditional dishes from each region including Pollo alla cacciatore (Chicken breast hunters style) and Umbrici (Spaghetti with fresh tomato, garlic, extra virgin olive oil and lots of pecorino cheese). Cucina is open daily, 1200 noon to 1500 hrs for lunch and 1800 to 2330 hrs for dinner.

For more information and reservations please call 04 8852222 or log on to www. marriottdiningatcy.ae

July I Travel Arabia I 65

Crown Plaza

Crowne Plaza Dubai To beat the heat this summer, Crown Plaza Dubai is offering a 50% off your bill when dining in one of the participating outlets during lunch time and before 08:30pm. The voucher can be redeemed in participating outlets on next visit during the same timings. This offer is available from the Al Bustan 15th June – 31st August.

Participating outlets are Al Dana, Al Fresco, Al Tannour, Cappucino’s, Harvester’s Pub, Sakura, Trader’s Vic Crowne Plaza, and Western Steakhouse.

The Lebanese restaurant Al Tannour opens early for even more live Al Murooj Rotana entertainment. Doors open at 9pm for the first setting of diners, followed by another setting at 11.30. You will not believe your eyes as the live entertainment unfolds before you. A live band is backed by some of the most well known Lebanese singers.

In the corner of the room Crown Plaza you will catch the eye and smile of a lady who has been Moevenpick making fresh Arabic bread

66 I Travel Arabia I July

everyday in Al Tannour for over 15 years. The smells and taste will instantly put a smile on your face. Shisha is smoked throughout the night infusing the atmosphere with a sweet smell.

The Crowne Plaza Dubai has given its hidden Treasure, the Sakura Japanese restaurant a bit of a face lift and has now opened its doors for lunchtime quick and easy eating!

The new lunch menu is divine with an express policy…if lunch is not served within 15 minutes, it’s on us! There are large and medium sizes bento boxes, or why not choice from the very healthy freshly prepared sushi selection and add a bit of the Tempura vegetables.

Full a la carte menu is available and the teppanyaki tables are always heated up for live cooking action!

For more information call Crowne Plaza Dubai on 800 Crowne or visit www. crowneplaza.com/dubai www.tablebookings.com

Dusit Dubai PAX Restaurant at Dusit Dubai being the soul of Jazz Entertainment welcomes a new band ‘Whitney Marchelle Trio’ direct from the USA! Heading the brilliant Trio is the very talented Whitney, a well recognised and accomplished singer in the Jazz world. She offers a unique style and vocal elegance that deserves the undivided attention of the listener.

Overlooking the heartof-Dubai, PAX provides a stylish Italian setting where the views are hot and the jazz is cool. The Bar boasts an extensive wine list,

tempting Italian bites and live jazz entertainment by the fabulous Whitney Marchelle Trio.

For the best live Jazz in town, visit PAX at Dusit Dubai. For further information, call the Dusit Dubai on 04 3433333.

Grand Hyatt Dubai Join us at The Market Café for a truly authentic dining experience, as guest chefs from Lahore arrive to cook a variety of traditional Pakistani dishes.

Enjoy a range of Asian delicacies, including meat, fish and vegetable curries, biryani, dhals and other

Jumeirah Bab Al Shams

delicious dishes from the Pearl Continental Hotel in Lahore. And with a wide range of other international specialties available at The Market Café, you can be sure to be spoiled for choice! A la carte available from Sunday the 15th – Tuesday the 31st July.

Dine in private comfort and style at Grand Hyatt Dubai’s newest restaurant, iZ. With an intimate atmosphere, as well as your own private chef, waiting staff and Tandoor ovens, this is a completely unique dining experience, ideal for birthdays, business lunches or leaving parties!

Lunch package is AED3500 and dinner package is AED8000 which includes food and soft drinks for a maximum of 12 guests, drinks deals available upon request. For reservations, please call 04 317 2222.

Jumeirah Bab Al Shams A day off at Al Forsan Restaurant is more than a lunch; it is an experience to be savoured as it will stimulate not only the taste buds, but all of the senses through the unique smells, sounds and sights of Arabia.

The international open buffet features live cooking stations where succulent meats are grilled to perfection on open BBQs, and freshly baked bread is still warm from the stone oven. There is also an extensive range of international salads, and all concluded with an extravagant dessert display, while listening to the melodious rhythms of the live jazz trio.

The buffet is on Fridays and Saturdays from 12:30 to 4:30 pm for AED195 per person. For more

information, please contact Restaurant Reservations at Tel: +971 4 8096194 or email: JBASrestaurants@jumeirah. com.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel Weekends should be all about relaxing and indulgence. At Latitude we truly believe this, which is why our brunch takes place on both Fridays and Saturdays.

Brunch at Latitude will certainly fit the bill, offering a variety of live cooking stations thus making your dining experience an exciting journey from entrée through to dessert. Latitude invites you to savour the fresh approach to food and diverse cooking styles from around the globe.

Enjoy the vibrant flavours with bubbles whilst dining inside the smoke free restaurant or al fresco on the terrace from 12.30 to 4:00 pm for AED 275 (including Moet & Chandon champagne).

Visit Beachcombers for a healthy and hearty breakfast with a beachfront view. You can sample fresh tropical fruits, cereals, muffins and breads as well as juices, teas and coffees. For those feeling like a bit more energy hungry there are delicious cooked dishes available too – eggs, sausages, baked beans and even some Asian specialities such as congee (porridge) or noodles.

To make sure the whole family can enjoy breakfast together this summer children under the age of 4 will receive breakfast with our compliments, and for those between 4 and 12 years the breakfast buffet will only be AED 50.

For a great start to the day enjoy breakfast at

Crown Plaza

Beachcombers! Valid until 10th of August 2007. Buffet price: AED 100 per person from 07:30hrs to 11:30hrs.

For more information, please contact Restaurant Reservations at +971 4 4068999.

Jumeirah Emirates Towers Mosaico Restaurant, situated on the lower level of the Jumeirah Emirates Hotel Tower, is inviting diners to a long and leisurely lunch every Friday. This exceptional culinary affair features a menu of Italian classics and outstanding Spanish Tapas in addition to the main courses all specially crafted by Mosaico’s talented chefs and using the classic columns of Mediterranean cuisine: olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

For lovers of classic Mediterranean cuisine, the Mosaico Mediterranean Shangrila

lunch is simply a must. Price is AED 150 (or AED 250 with a half bottle of champagne) Experience the new night that everyone is talking about. Every Saturday, Scarlett’s has a treat in store for ladies who aim high. High heels are in great demand but what lengths would you go to?

Scarlett’s is inviting ladies to a complimentary glass of bubbly with every inch height of their heel. What’s more, for those ladies who do not own a pair of heels we will surprise your visit with two complimentary drinks from our selection.

Get ready for a great night out, mingle, take part in the fashionable raffle draw, enjoy the music and upbeat atmosphere and stand tall. For more information, please contact Restaurant Reservations at +971 4 3198088 or email JETrestaurants@jumeirah.com

July I Travel Arabia I 67

JW Marriott

here in Dubai, the JW Marriott Hotel shares with you this milestone and has an offer for 80 days that you simply can’t resist!

From 28th June until 15th September dine in any of the participating restaurants and indulge in a world-class selection of buffet dishes at Bamboo Lagoon and The Market Place or choose from select á la carte menus especially created for this offer at JW’s

Place every night. The Market Place is open daily for breakfast (0630-1100 hrs), lunch (1230-1530 hrs) and dinner (1930-2330 hrs). Market Place also hosts the XII Brunch from 1200 to 2400 on Fridays and Saturdays.

For more information and reservations please call 04 6077977/ 04 60770099 or log on to www. marriottdiningatjw.ae

lentils to make wonderful idlis, vadas and uttapams.

Enjoy all of these and more at Spice Island this summer.

Indulge yourself in something new at Sails as we awaken your senses every afternoon with our irresistible high tea. Tuck into a perfect selection of freshly baked croissants, muffins and Danish pastries with your choice of instantly brewed coffee or tea.

The promotion is on

Madinat Jumeirah Select your preferred location from the five magnificent locations in Mina A’ Salam and Al Qasr, with each hotel offering stunning views overlooking the waterway and the stunning architecture of Madinat Jumeirah.

Crown Plaza

At Al Qasr, Arboretum, Al Hambra and MJ’s Steakhouse offer a variety of food and free flowing beverages for only 295 AED per person, whilst at Mina A’ Salam, diners at Al Muna and The Wharf can also enjoy an exquisite brunch with free flowing beverages for the Dusit Dubai same price.

With exciting activities for children of all ages, brunch at Madinat Jumeirah is a great way to while away a Friday, so make the waterside restaurants your natural habitat every Friday at Al Qasr and Mina A’ Salam. Al Qasr brunch is ongoing from Sheraton Jumeirah 12.30 to 4:00 pm and Mina A’ Salam brunch is from1:00 to 4:00 pm. For more information, please contact Restaurant Reservations at +971 4 366 6730 or email MJrestaurants@jumeirah. com

JW Marriott Dubai As Marriott celebrates its 80th anniversary worldwide,

68 I Travel Arabia I July

Madinat Jumeirah Steakhouse, Hofbräuhaus, Cucina, and Champions for only Dhs 80 per person (food only). Alternatively choose the all inclusive food and house beverage package for the great value price of Dhs 180.

This July and August experience the colourful and simple flavours of Mediterranean food without travelling a thousand miles at The Market Place. Choose from selection of fresh salads, pasta and sauces, meats and seafood. Don’t forget to visit the dessert station with an array of mouth-watering desserts. Food of the sun is Sheraton available atAbu TheDhabi Market

Renaissance Hotel Dubai The award winning Spice Island restaurant brings home the vibrant tastes from the Southern provinces of India in its latest festival from 28th July to 17th August. The restaurant chefs have creatively combined the flavors from the South of India with a vibrant selection to choose from in addition to the extensive and lavish buffet on offer. Tamil cuisine developed over many centuries and is characterized by its aroma and flavour.

South Indian cuisine is rice based. Rice is combined with

from Monday to Friday starting 15th July to 31st of July from 15:30 - 17:00 hours and priced at Dhs 45 per person.

We’re celebrating your birthday with you at the Aquarium Lounge this July.

Enjoy a special 15 % discount on all 1 kg pre-booked cakes.

Let the feasting begin! Please call 04-262 5555 for more information or reservations for any of the above promotions.

Shangri-la Hotel July marks the fourth anniversary of Shang Palace and everyone is invited to help us celebrate this special

occasion. We’re offering delicious discounts for the entire month to show our gratitude to all our valued guests. Feast on fine Cantonese specialties including Dim Sum, crispy Peking duck, and succulent shrimp dumplings and enjoy 40% off your total bill. This special offer is available everyday for lunch from 13h00 to 15h00.

Chef Phu has created a special à la carte menu for July which includes some of his favourite specialties.

Chef Phu originally from Hai Duong in Vietnam offers guests genuine Vietnamese cuisine in an intimate atmosphere at Hoi An. Chef’s special à la carte menu includes dishes such as Crispy seafood and pineapple spring rolls with mayonnaise sauce, Oven roasted lobster with Asian herbs and lemongrass sabayon as well as Crispy lamb cutlets in rice baskets with kumquat chutney and ginger plum sauce. This special menu is available daily for dinner from 19h00 to 01h00.

The Mediterraneo high lunch on Level 2 continues every Friday from 13h00 to 16h00. The high lunch

transforms Level 2 of the hotel into a Mediterranean dream, combining Amwaj, our seafood restaurant and Marrakech, our Moroccan restaurant. Mediterraneo is available every Friday for AED 250 per person, inclusive of unlimited food and beverages. All prices are inclusive of 10% Municipality fees and 10% service charge. For further information and reservations, please call (04) 405 2703.

Sheraton Deira Hotel Enjoy food on sticks ‘Shaslik & Skewers’ every Wednesday, at The Terrace restaurant, a latest of the theme nights with an Asian twist at the Sheraton Deira Hotel.

The ‘Shaslik & Skewer’ Night is featured in the relaxing atmosphere at the Mediterranean styled -The Terrace restaurant from 7.30pm till 11.30pm. This novelty evening is priced at Dhs. 95 net inclusive of soft drinks. You have the option to select from the vast raw display on sticks and the Chefs will be happy to cook

Sheraton Deira

them ‘a la minute’ – medium, raw or well-done!

It is ‘Shrimply shrimps’ at The Terrace restaurant, Sheraton Deira Hotel served for lunch from 12 noon till 3pm at Dhs. 55net per dish.

This summer enjoy eating luscious looking shrimps as starters and tempting main courses.

The special highlights of the limited menu are Shrimps and asparagus (grilled) with balsamic vinaigrette; Batter fried prawn with sweet mango, chutney and fried rice; Prawn shaslick with Arabic rice and salad; Stir fried prawns with baked Oriental bread. Round up your meal in the warm and friendly ambience of The Terrace by scooping any one of the tempting desserts from the ‘a la carte’ menu selection.

For more details, call 042688888 Ext. 8615.

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers For the month of July, you can enjoy some refreshing and tasty salads at Creekside as Chef Narit and his team toss up Smoked Salmon roll salad (smoked salmon wrapped avocado, asparagus, enoki mushroom with wasabi mayonnaise sauce), Crab & Soba Noodle Salad (crabstick and buckwheat noodle with sesame dressing) and Seafood Salad (shrimp, crab stick, squid, mussel with spicy lemon dressing). Price is from AED28 net per dish.

For reservations, please call 04 207 1750.

In July, Vivaldi sets the stage for this special pasta promotion. On the a la carte menu are delicate dishes such as Rigatoni Salciccia Pomodoro E Cipolla (rigatoni pasta with

Shangrila

sausage, tomato and onions), Tagliolini Al Nero Di Sepia E Astice (black squid ink tagliolini with Canadian lobster and fresh chopped tomatoes) and of course, Spaghetti Alla Nerone Con Pomodoro E Cipolle Rosse (spaghetti Nerone style with fresh tomato sauce and red onions) plus others. Prices start at AED 30per dish.

At Ashiana, Chef Gaurav endeavours to relive the food of these transitional times during the month of July. Sample specialities like NAWCH GIRLS TEMPTATION (A potato and tomato soup flavoured with ginger and cinnamon served with fried bread croutons and coriander), or BIBI’S PUDDING (Simply caramel custard made with coconut cream).

One of the most common desserts that the Indian household cooks learned from their English bosses but used coconut milk instead) and last but not least FOREST OFFICERES PULLAO (A preparation of long grain basmati rice,

July I Travel Arabia I 69

vegetables, dry fruits and nuts, served in forest officers bungalows during hunting expeditions). Prices start from AED25 net per dish.

For reservations, please call 04 207 1733.

Shangrila

Sheraton Jumeirah Calling all seafood lovers to Sheraton Jumeirah’s Al Hadiqa restaurant!

Come enjoy your favourite flavoured shisha with a wide selection of delicious Arabic dishes made with shrimp.

We promise that this special summer promotion will leave you craving for more.

For all our vegetarian friends, Sheraton Jumeirah’s

Peacock restaurant is offering the best in vegetarian Chinese cuisine this month. Spice up your meal with our Beijing style Chinese cabbage with chilli or dig your chopsticks into a bowl of soft, freshly made hakka noodles. For those with a sweet tooth, try our lychees with almond bean curd or the ever popular fried bananas drizzled with honey. What’s more you we will round up the meal for you with a fortune cookie each.

What better way to beat the summer heat than with a chilled scoop of ice-cream served with fresh strawberries! If you are craving something sweet, then our selection of sinful strawberry filled cakes and pastries created especially by our master Pastry Chef, Hassan Latif guarantee sweet satisfaction.

This summer we are going healthy at the Grill Room restaurant. Toss your own salad with our selection of the freshest lettuce ranging from Boston, Iceberg, and Rocca,

Sheraton Dubai Creek

to Radicchio Lettuce with croutons, Parmesan, Bacon Bits and fresh herbs. Drizzle with one of five of the finest “Gegenbauer” vinegars that include Golden Balsamic, Black Currant and Pear Williams with a dash of Chilli, Walnut, Grape Seed, Thistle or Virgin Olive Oil to create a delicious summer salad. For all reservations, please call 04-315 3218

The Fairmont Dubai Long established as an institution in Dubai, Spectrum on One’s Friday brunch has been recognized as the brunch

Sheraton Jumeirah

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in the city. Since it was first launched in January 2004, this Friday afternoon epicurean experience has quickly found itself in the social calendar of many city socialites and local residents and has gained momentum in Dubai by providing a retreat from bustling city life into a world of gastronomic fantasy.

Senior Executive Sous Chef Kamal Uduwarage and the Spectrum on One brigade invites guests to partake in a culinary journey with a bounty of offerings including Awadhi Indian kebabs, signature sushi items, interactive Japanese teppan cooking, traditional Arabic dishes, in addition to hearty breakfast fare with eggs benedict and a roast carving station.

The brunch with an unrivalled reputation continues with an array of savoury signature items, highlighted by a decadent sweet station, including the infamous chocolate station and a colourful assortment of toffee and sweet selections delicately prepared by Executive Pastry Chef, Eric Goutyeron.

Brunch in the city is available every Friday in Spectrum on One, from 12 - 3 pm and is priced at Dhs 400 per person. For reservations, please phone 04 311 8316.

GREAT TASTE

Savour the world’s flavours at

The Gallery

The all day dining restaurant offers the finest international cuisine from around the world including a daily buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner along with a wide selection of continental cuisine from the a la carte menu.

A lot of restaurants in Dubai offer international cuisine in their buffet.

More often, the selection is so grand, the tendency is to sample most of the offerings. In doing this, we sometimes could not afford a second serving of the one food that we liked because of the satisfaction.

But a trip to the newly-opened The Gallery at the Burjuman Rotana Suites is an exemption. Here, you can sample all the dishes and still go back for another plate of that delicious dish that tickled your appetite.

The Gallery offers a great selection of international cuisine. There’s sushi, salads, the ever famous fatoush, hummus, tabouleh, the main dishes of beef tandoori, lamb chop, quiche, steamed vegetable, biryani, assorted breads and tempting desserts.

The atmosphere is very cozy, with contemporary, elegant style and colours including a long green apple-colored seat, red walls, big paintings hanging on one side of the wall, parquet floors and good lightings. The restaurant can seat up to 150 guests and an open kitchen has Chef Jack Hajj overseeing the preparation and cooking of the dishes.

“The Gallery is a gastronomic restaurant. We serve international cuisine and our menu changes every day and every week. We have about 40 to 45 kinds of food to be offered to our customers, 25 plates of salad and international desserts. All our products are imported but those that we can get from the local market, we get it here,” explained Chef Hajj.

Chef Hajj added that their meat comes from Australia, smoked salmon comes from Scotland, beef fillet is from Brazil and other vegetables are imported fresh from Holland.

Mourad Bouanani, Food and Reservation Manager and Marius Filamor, Restaurant Manager, along

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with their friendly staff keep the guests comfortable with their warm welcome and genuine smile.

For the starter, I tried the squid and Greek salad. Mind you, the squid salad tastes superb and cooked just right because it’s not chewy or hard.

It goes well with the Greek salad and the smoked salmon. The squid and the Greek salad are two of the many selections that I had to return to for another bite.

Don’t expect to find soup from the buffet arcade since the buffet does not include one. But you can order from the menu. I tried the lobster bisque soup, a brown-colored soup with bits of lobster that is very rich and best eaten with a French bread dipped in olive oil.

I also tried the fish with sesame oil, fried onion and pine seed. Very creamy and a good spread for your bread or can be eaten alone.

For my main dish I sampled the beef tandoori. The tender slices of beef taste delicious with the distinct taste of the spices. The beef and lamb chops are also tender, cooked well but not dry. I also tried the quiche, a savory pie filled with egg and cream mixture and with mushroom on top. You should try it,

very tasty, indeed.

If you don’t want to try the buffet, The Gallery offers a la carte menu.

The choices for appetizers include the Lebanese hot and cold mezzah, Caprese salad, Mixed Green Salad, Ceasar Salad, and Nicoise Salad. For the Soup, there is vegetable soup, lentil soup, lobster bisque and the soup of the day. There is pasta, light snacks, sandwiches, grilled dishes, and several main courses.

If you are eating as a family, The Gallery offers children’s meals. Your kids will enjoy hotdog, nuggets, burger, pasta; all named after famous book and television characters.

Prices for the buffet range from AED 80 to AED 120 per person and do not include drinks. Soon the restaurant will offer themed nights for both in-house guests and residents.

So the next time you are looking for a great place to eat after shopping or browsing around Burjuman Mall, head to The Gallery where you can enjoy the world’s best flavours.

Open from 6:30 am to 11:30 pm, call +971 4 3524444 or email thegallery. burjuman@rotana.com for enquiries and reservations.

“The Gallery is a gastronomic restaurant.

We serve international cuisine and our menu changes every day and every week. We have about 40 to 45 kinds of food to be offered to our customers, 25 plates of salad and international desserts. All our products are imported but those that we can get from the local market, we get it here,” -Chef Hajj

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Fine Italian dishes at Amalfi When you are in the mood to sample Italian dishes, one of the best places to go is Amalfi, an Italian restaurant located at Le Royal Meridien Hotel in Abu Dhabi.

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Amalfi, a perfect place for breakfast and lunch meetings, is also a great rendezvous for a romantic evening.

The Italian restaurant is going through some changes with the arrival of new Italian chef Rudy Casera who brings with him nine years of experience. Chef Casera, who comes from Venice, is introducing a whole new menu with real authentic dishes.

“I kept about four or five dishes from the original menu. I am introducing modern Italian dishes in respect to the Italian tradition. I am giving more life to the restaurant by introducing a new menu that will give our guests a truly relaxed atmosphere,” he said.

“A cocktail bar will be in place starting July where guests can come in, sit in the bar, have a drink, chat a little before they start their meeting,” added Chef Casera.

The fine dining restaurant which is open for lunch from 12:30 pm to 3 pm and dinner from 7:00 pm to 11 pm. It has an elegant French décor and still uses the silver cutlery which added to the elegance of the place. The restaurant can seat a total of 70 guests but if you want a private dining, a separate room can seat up to 20 guests.

The restaurant is clean with beautiful flowers adorning the place. There are displays containing quality Italian products like extra virgin olive oil, vinegar, pickles and Amaretti crunchy biscuit.

During lunch, guests get a full view of the pool area while in the evening the place turns romantic with candle lit tables and a guitarist playing beautiful songs. In the future, a singer will add luster to the place by singing beautiful Italian songs for that romantic

atmosphere.

Chef Casera prepared Asparagus Soup, Spaghetti Botarga, Grilled Lamb Chop with Port Wine and Thyme Sauce for our lunch. While waiting for the food, we nibbled on the crusty bread dipped on olive oil and balsamic vinegar. We also tried Amalfi refreshing drink called Summer Dream Fruit Cocktail which is a mixture of fresh fruits.

The Asparagus Soup came. The yellowish colored soup with bits of asparagus is very delicious. It is rich, creamy and taste wonderful.

The Seafood Bottarga is indeed an authentic dish. Aside from the seafood, the dish includes a smoked fish which Chef Casera said was from Sardinia. The home made pasta tastes very healthy, well cooked, no trace of oil, not soggy but a bit chewy which is perfect for pasta lover.

Chef Casera warned me though to save some space for the next dish, the Grilled Lamb Chop with Port Wine and Thyme Sauce. The lamb chop is sweet, tender and juicy. The sauce is perfect for the perfectly cooked meat.

To end the meal, I tried the Tiramisu elegantly placed on a wine glass. The dessert is not too sweet, taste excellent and best eaten with black coffee.

It was a great experience and I’m glad I’m one of the first to sample Chef Casera’s new dishes which I believed will be a hit not only to residents of Abu Dhabi but food lovers who fancy Italian dishes.

With the ever smiling and attentive staff, a modern and relax atmosphere plus unique dishes, I’ll be going back to Amalfi for sure and I’m looking forward to it.

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TRAVEL & TOURISM NEWS

Comfort isn’t complicated at

Four Points If you have been passing Sheikh Zayed Road a lot, you will not miss the huge sign hovering on a multi-story glass and steel building. Yes it is the Four Points by Sheraton, one of the two Four Points by Sheraton properties scheduled to open this year.

Starwoord Hotels & Resorts Worldwide is re-launching the Four Points brand in Dubai, one in Sheikh Zayed Road, offering 390 guest rooms, and the Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Dubai, offering 252 oversized rooms.

“Starwood is re-launching the Four Points brand because we have a whole new brand image that revolves around Eric Vedsegaard, General Manager three simple words –uncomplicated, comfortable and honest. It sounds very simple but we are trying to put this out to each and every corner of what we’re doing,” said Eric Vedsegaard, General Manager.

“At Four Points we believe that comfort isn’t complicated. Our approach to service must be attentive, no-nonsense, professional yet non interruptive. With the re-launch of the Four Points brand, many changes are made at our properties to help uncomplicate our guests’ stay. These changes are about the simple things

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that are expected when a traveller is away from his own comfort home. Our challenge is to keep that comfortable atmosphere in an uncomplicated and honest way,” explained Vedsegaard.

“Honest is many things,” he added.

“It has to do with the product you serve.

We don’t want to, for example, have a no-nonsense approach to food. It means what you read on the menu and what you get on your plate are the same. We want things to be straightforward and not complicated.”

The Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road will be housed in a multi-story glass and steel building with 43 floors. Opening in mid-September, the hotel will have a strategic location on Sheikh Zayed Road, at the heart of Dubai’s financial centre.

The 390-room hotel has one, two and three-bedroom suites for extended stays, catering well for families or for people who are on holidays for a couple of weeks.

The suites have a small kitchen, laundry facilities and even facilities for guests who are bringing along their maids. The hotel also boasts six meeting rooms, an all day dining, two themes outlets, two bars and a fitness centre with pool facilities.

The Four Points Downtown Dubai

will also open in mid 2007 in the Golden Sands area of Dubai. A newly built property, the main feature of the hotel is the oversized room that will cater to the business and family segment visiting Dubai and looking for a comfortable and stylish hotel in quieter surroundings The hotels are owned by Golden Sands Hotels LLC, a subsidiary of the Arenco Group, a Dubai-based company with diverse interests in real estate, including hotels.

With the opening of these hotels, future guests in Dubai will be introduced to the brand’s signature Four Points Comfort Bed, with a plush mattress, pillows, a cozy duvet, and crisp 200 threat count sheet.

The properties make use of colours that are cozy and chic. “Our family room and Lobby Lounge with their warm decoration are going to be your favorite relaxing spots, before or after a busy day out, for business chopping. The comfort of the sofas, the coziness of the decoration with candles and magazines of interest, will take you back home and invite you for a casual and comfortable “feet-up atmosphere”.

“Simple, uncomplicated and honest service makes our guests feel home away from home. With our new properties in Sheikh Zayed Road and Downtown Dubai opening soon, and our team of friendly associates, who will naturally greet and serve you from the heart, Four Points by Sheraton brand will offer a new concept of hospitality. All in style and at great value. And this is just the beginning of new great things to come,” concluded Vedseegaard.

DAMAC unveils branded tower and DSS ‘07 promotion also announced a host of other promotions revolving around all its Dubai-based properties during DSS 2007.

Every purchase of a property at DAMAC Heights or any other DAMAC property worth AED350000 during DSS 2007 entitles the buyer to enter a draw, where one luxury car from the bouquet of one Bentley Continental, two Aston Martin V8 Vantage Coupe cars and two Lamborghini Gallardo Coupe cars will be raffled. The draws will be held every second week commencing 5th of July at the Mall of the Emirates.

A customer gets 14 days to put in the eligibility amount for any DAMAC apartment - equivalent to 20% of the value of the unit - to be eligible for the raffle.

Luxury lifestyle provider and the region’s largest private sector master developer, DAMAC Properties, unveiled DAMAC Heights – its first branded tower. The launch of the iconic 90-storey tower is part of DAMAC’s exciting promotion during the Dubai Summer Surprises 2007.

Located in the prestigious Dubai Marina overlooking the Palm Jumeirah, DAMAC Heights features the most exclusive penthouses, duplexes, 3, 2 and 1 bedroom apartments. At the launch, DAMAC has

Hussain Sajwani, Chairman of DAMAC Holding, said: “Close on the heels of our tremendous promotions during DSF 2007,

we are delighted to introduce an array of exciting promotions during Dubai Summer Surprises. As part of our unique offering during DSS, we have unveiled yet another masterpiece for the discerning community in the Middle East and worldwide. DAMAC Heights, the first DAMAC branded tower brings together state-of-the-art facilities with the ultimate in luxury at Dubai Marina, the most prestigious waterfront address in the region.”

Designed by world-class architects Aedas, the 90-level DAMAC Heights will have 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, exclusive penthouses and duplexes equipped with thoughtfully planned space and utilities.

Commenting on the DSS 2007 promotion, Peter Riddoch, CEO of DAMAC Properties, said: “Dubai Summer Surprises is celebrating its tenth year this time and the visitor traffic is expected to be around 2.16 million, which is about 15 per cent higher than the previous year. Like every year, even this year we look forward to an exciting and gratifying DSS while promoting Dubai as a global destination with luxurious living.”

The launch of the tower as part of DAMAC’s DSS promotion follows the impressive response to their Dubai Shopping Festival 2007 promotion.

Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers Abu Dhabi gets leading resort award Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers elected “Abu Dhabi’s Leading Resort” by travel Professionals worldwide at the 14th Annual Travel Awards Gala Dinner ceremony.

Internationally regarded as the biggest and most prestigious travel awards program, the World Travel Awards is quoted by the Wall street Journal as the “Oscar’s of Travel”.

Freddy Farid General Manager and Area vice president - Emirate of Abu Dhabi/ Al Ain said: “ We are proud of this achievement, most importantly this is the certification and judgment of Worldwide Travel Professionals, based on their expertise and valued opinions, making the verdict a genuine support.”

The Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers

reputed for its commitment to quality and service is set to deliver the Added value along with the Personal Touch for its partners and loyal customers.

Guests’ Delight and Associates Collaboration point out the hotel’s aim and rigid goals.

“We treasure this acknowledgment by the esteemed partners and customers; we thank them for their entrust, being the connoisseur in the Hospitality Industry; This Award will entice us to strive always for excellence.

On Behalf of the entire team, I restate my appreciation and look forward to welcome you back at your voted home address in Abu Dhabi” concluded Mr. Farid.

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Al Osaimi Group signs agreement with Dusit Al Osaimi Group, a leading Kuwaitbased developer, has announced an investment of AED 1 billion towards the development of two luxurious hotels and an upscale residential complex located on the crescent of The Palm Jumeirah in Dubai.

The company has appointed Dusit International, one of the world’s most prestigious Thai hotel chains, for the management of its first venture in the UAE, which is targeted for completion in 2010. The formal agreement between the two companies was signed by Abdul Rahman Al Osaimi, Chairman, Al Osaimi Group of Companies and Chanin Donavanik, CEO and Managing Director, Dusit International, in the presence of senior executives from Kuwait, Dubai, and Thailand, in addition to several

guests and VIPs from different companies associated with the project.

Spanning approximately 100 million sq. ft. on the crescent of The Palm Jumeirah, the project comprises of a seven-star Luxury Hotel, five-star Family Resort and an upscale Residential complex with a combined total of 180 freehold plush townhouses and lavish penthouses. With a traditional Indian architecture and design, the Luxury Hotel offers 116 guestrooms and suites, whilst the Moroccan-themed Family Resort has 292 rooms and suites.

Both hotels will offer distinctive dining experiences, private chalets, themed landscaping, ballroom and state-of-the-art facilities among other amenities. The luxurious development will also include Dusit’s renowned

Deverana Spa, which will feature treatments exclusive to the hotel, providing guests an authentic and unforgettable Thai experience without leaving the UAE. Visitors can also expect to be pampered with the internationally acclaimed service of Dusit International, which incorporates traditional Thai culture and hospitality for a personalized experience. The elite development will offer unrivalled privileges, and further details will be revealed in the coming months.

“Our foray into Dubai is a strategic move to boost our presence in the GCC, and this project sets the level of upcoming major investments we are set to undertake in this part of the world.

By partnering with the world-renowned Dusit International, we manifest our commitment for luxurious and prime property developments and assure our clients the highest standards of comforts and convenience Dusit has been celebrated for across the world,” said Abdul Rahman Al Osaimi, Chairman of Al Osaimi Group.

“The decision to collaborate with Al Osaimi Group was based on a strong shared ethos, and we have closely collaborated with them from the project’s inception with strategic inputs that complement their vision for this development. The excellence of Al Osaimi Group’s design and architecture and our unique brand of service will usher a luxurious option into the Middle East market, and we are confident that this new project will be met with huge success,” said Chanin Donavanik, CEO and Managing Director, Dusit International.

Jumeirah sponsors the Business Travel Show Dubai Dubai based luxury hospitality group Jumeirah, has signed as a founding partner for the Business Travel Show Dubai, the region’s firstof-its-kind exhibition and educational seminar programme dedicated to the business travel industry.

The Dubai-edition of The Business Travel Show – already an industryleading event in Britain and Germany

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– will be held 29-30 October 2007.

Mr. Thomas Grundner, Jumeirah’s Regional Director of Sales – Gulf said: “We at Jumeirah are delighted to play such an integral role as a founder member of the first Business Travel Show to be held at Madinat Jumeirah.

This will further enhance Dubai’s reputation as one of the world’s most enriching, cosmopolitan and luxurious

Bavaria Hotels International’s

Mr Nadir Baddrudin, Chairman Doha Real Estate Company (left) and Mr Thomas Gertz, Chief Executive Officer Bavaria Hotels International (right) upon signing the agreement for Bavaria Hotels International to manage the Sharjah-based property.

new project Bavaria Hotels International Chief Executive Officer, Thomas H. F. Gertz, recently announced the signing of a contract to manage a new all-suite property in Sharjah for the Doha Real Estate Company.

“With two large-scale suite hotels already opening in Qatar and the UAE, Bavaria Hotels International is delighted to continue the trend of upscale all-suite hotels right here in the UAE” commented Mr Gertz. “The Sharjah property will be managed under the Executive Suites brand, signifying a 5-star product in a strategically excellent location.”

The Bavaria Executive Suites brand of hotels represents full serviced luxury suite hotels for guests residing in a destination longer than the average traveller, or families who require fully equipped accommodation. The concept design is focused on quality accommodation and guest support services, together with food and beverage facilities. The first such property to open in the UAE will be Bavaria Executive Suites Dubai, scheduled to open during the last quarter of 2007 at Dubai Media City.

Upon signing the deal, Mr. Nadir Badruddin, Chairman of Doha Real Estate Company commented: “There are a number of international and regional hotel operators offering management services, but we selected Bavaria Hotels International for its combination destinations.”

With business trips comprising 80 percent of travel in the Gulf region, the show is a timely addition to Dubai’s annual event’s calendar. The exhibition and educational seminar programme will bring together business travel buyers and bookers with travel suppliers and travel management agencies.

Commenting on the partnership with Jumeirah, Sally Pugmire, Event Director, Centaur Exhibitions, the organizers for the Business Travel Show Dubai said: “We are delighted that Jumeirah is supporting

of European quality and hospitality expertise combined with an in-depth understanding of local cultures, as well as its flexibility to incorporate the individual identity and character of each of the properties it operates. This is more than the management contract of a AED 500 million project, it is a partnership dedicated to providing the very best of services and facilities to our guests and to upholding the unique Arabian hospitality, combining tradition with modern hospitality.”

Bavaria Executive Suites Sharjah will incorporate the corporate Bavaria Hotels International brands Café Haus, Lifestyle Fitness, Personal Assistant and Business Club, in addition to spa and meetings facilities. With a strong technical and IT infrastructure, Bavaria Executive Suites Sharjah will deliver the ultimate high performance living and working environment incorporating four unique Product Lifestyles, namely: Modern Living, Wellness, Successful Business and a Commercial Centre with support services.

The futuristic office and meeting environment will be designed and created to exceed the demands and challenges of the future with smart technological features required by today’s business traveller. the launch of the Business Travel Show in Dubai as a founding partner. The fact that companies like Jumeirah are participating, shows the emphasis they place on business travelers and further reinforces the need for a dedicated event focused on buyers and bookers of business-related travel services in the Middle East.”

Exhibitors and sponsors for the upcoming show include international and regional airlines, air charter companies, travel management organisations, hotels, serviced apartments, corporate car services and other travel service providers.

Capsis Resort Hotels

partners with Al Rais Travel Capsis Resort Hotels & Convention Centres has signed a partnership agreement with Al Rais Travel for Dubai and the Northern Emirates. This decision was reached, after the Capsis Resort Crete went under a major reconstruction and transformation during the winter of 2006/7 and in May 2007 opened the gates to a luxurious microcosm of private pool-villas and maisonettes.

Al Rais Travel is recognised as a leader in travel and tourism and was chosen by Capsis Resort Hotels & Convention Centres as a partner to assist in penetrating the VIP and upscale middle-east leisure market.

The new and exclusive resort in Crete consists of 2 main hotel buildings, 3 private neighbourhoods with bungalows, suites, maisonettes and villas and an Exclusive All-Suite Hotel with more than 50 private pool-maisonettes and villas.

Capsis Minoan Amusement Park Inspired by the famous Ancient Minoan Palace sites of Knossos, Phaistos and Malia, the Capsis Resort Crete features a brand new historical park of about 4.000 sq. m. for children from 4 to 14 years of age and their parents.

This Minoan Amusement Park is the only Minoan Mythological Park in Greece and will introduce children to the world of Minoan and Greek Mythology where the Ancient World will revive in front of their playful eyes through a range of indoor/outdoor games, activities and sports.

Location This 5-star deluxe resort hotel is located on a private peninsula, 20 minutes from the City and the International Airport of Heraklion and next to the traditional fishing village of Aghia Pelaghia. The 5-star deluxe hotel is ideally, centrally situated on the island of Crete, providing easy and quick access to all Ancient Sites for excursions.

The property is outstretched over this unique peninsula resembling a Cretan Village and is surrounded by a Botanical Park of 167.000 sq. m. / 1.796.920 sq. ft. with beautiful Aegean views, extensive gardens, green pathways, ponds, cascades, a small river, 3 beaches and a private zoo.

The property features 3 private greenhouses and large cultivations where organically-grown fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers are produced and used in all our restaurants and bars.

Capsis has now a dedicated office in Dubai to serve all customers who will be looked after by selected Sales Manager and his team. The office is located at Bur Dubai ART Tower, Mina Road on the Seventh Floor. All interested parties can reach Capsis office now at Tel No. 04-3936666

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Axiom celebrates partnership with Skywards Axiom Telecom, the region’s leading mobile phone retailer, announced a strategic partnership with Skywards, the frequent flyer programme of Emirates and SriLankan airlines to offer the hottest exclusive monthly promotions.

Through this partnership which commences in June 2007, a series of exciting promotions will be rolling out at Axiom stores across the region.

The first promotion kicked off on June 7 and allowed customers the chance to earn from 120,000, 80,000, or 40,000 Skywards Miles upon the purchase of selected Sony Ericsson handsets from Axiom stores, earning them an immediate free flight.

“We are thrilled to offer this unique partnership with Skywards –it provides

fantastic value to our customers.” said Faisal Al Bannai, CEO, Axiom Telecom. “Sony Ericsson lovers who choose to buy from a selection of

high end to midrange handsets from Axiom will be eligible to obtain these very large numbers of Skywards Miles to travel across the four oceans. Our strategic partnership with Skywards is very unique and guarantees great return on investment for travel buffs.”

With up to 120,000 bonus Skywards Miles a customer has a world of

choice. They can choose to travel anywhere in the world depending on the destination and preferred class of travel. For instance with 40,000 bonus Miles, customers can choose a free flight to Europe or India.

While with 120,000 Skywards Miles the choice is even greater including destinations such as Australia, Japan or New York.

“This partnership unveils aone-of-a-kind promotion that aims to benefit Skywards members whilst attracting new members at the same time.” said Ghaith Al Ghaith, Emirates’ Executive Vice President Commercial Operations Worldwide.

“We are delighted with our partnership with Axiom Telecom that will provide our members with competitive products and a high standard of service”

Millennium Hotels to manage Al Wahda Sports Club Hotel Millennium Hotels and Resorts Middle East signed a new management contract for Al Wahda Sports Club Hotel. The Hotel is due to open in 2009 with 243 rooms and suites as well as 412 Serviced Apartments. The Hotel tower will be connected from the South part of the new Al Wahda Shopping Mall.

Mr. Ali Lakhraim, CEO of Millennium/ Copthorne Hotels Middle East said, “This Hotel is a valuable addition to our portfolio in the Middle East and we are happy to be awarded the management contract of this Hotel.”

Mr. Rashed El Zaabi, Chairman Executive Office Al Wahda Sports Club said, “The Hotel is a major part of Al Wahda City 1 Project and we are proud to be a significant part of Abu Dhabi’s touristic boom.”

Guaranteed profit in Quattro West project

Makaseb Holding, one of the leading regional development and investment companies, and Tasees, the subsidiary real estate development and investment arm of Tamerat Almousa Group announced a rare offer to buyers that guarantees return on

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investment in its Quattro West project.

Inspired by the holding’s name, which means “benefits” in Arabic, Makaseb’s irresistible guaranteed-profit offer is part of a strategic move to increase market share by building trust among short and long-term investors.

The AED 1 billion Quattro West project comprises furnished hotel apartments managed by the international British company “Sanctuary Hotels and Resorts”.

The rooms are sold according to flexible payment programs, which offer buyers five percent annual profit on payments made during the three-year construction period.

On completion, the buyer will get a seven percent annual profit from the total price of the apartment for three years which returns a total of approximately 30%

through the whole interval during which Quattro West will manage the apartment and put it up for rent with the buyer having the right to use it for two weeks each year.

“Building investor trust is paramount in a competitive market and we believe that offering guaranteed returns will help strengthen our ties with investors. On top of sure profit, Makaseb also guarantees high quality and prompt delivery of the project,” said Eng. Hesham Abdel Ghani, Founder and Executive Director, Makaseb Holding.

The Quattro West project comprises a luxury five-star Hotel with 350 rooms, an exquisite Shopping Mall with brand showrooms from all over the world, an Office Tower that has 45 floors of Individual Freehold office units, and a Hotel Apartment block with 260 premium

Mike Mangold wins Istanbul

Red Bull Air Race Over one million spectators crowded the banks of Golden Horn estuary in Istanbul, Turkey to watch Mike Mangold (Team Cobra/USA) beat Paul Bonhomme (Team Matador/GBR) in the fourth Red Bull Air Race World Series event of the season on Saturday 2 June.

The world’s best pilots raced through an obstacle course, just metres above the estuary that marks the boundary between Europe and Asia. In a thrilling quarterfinal showdown, Peter Besenyei (HUN), the winner of the last Red Bull Air Race in Monument Valley, USA was nipped

by Alejandro Maclean (ESP) by just 0.04 seconds.

Mangold picked up his first win of the Red Bull Air Race World Series after completing a superb run at speeds of up to 400 kph (250 mph) and dealing with forces of up to 10G through the spectacular Air Gate course stretched out in the estuary between the Galata Bridge and the Atatürk Bridge in a time of 01:31.78 minutes to edge out Paul Bonhomme, who trailed by 1.39 seconds through the circuit.

In the consolation race for third place, Kirby Chambliss (USA) beat Alejandro Maclean (+5.26 seconds). The stop in Istanbul, the fourth leg of the 10-race Red Bull Air Race World Series, was the first of the season in Europe and marked a return to water and sea level after last month’s stop in the altitude of Monument Valley, that was held over the rugged western landscape on the Utah-Arizona border. The first two races of the year were also staged at sea level in Abu Dhabi and Rio de Janeiro. The next stop is in Interlaken, Switzerland on 14-15 July.

Last year there were more than six million spectators at eight races.

Bonhomme currently leads the championship with 20 points followed by Mike Mangold just one point behind.

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Millennium Hotel Group joins Etihad guest programme

Moine Kandil, GM, Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi; Sudheer Raghavan, COO, Middle East and North Africa, Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Sharada Iyer, CRM Development manager, Etihad Airways; Tarek Elsherif, regional director of sales & marketing, Millennium Hotels & Resorts, Middle East and North Africa; Peter Baumgartner, EVP marketing and product, Etihad Airways.

Dux bed comes to Dubai DUXIANA has opened its first store in Dubai. His Excellency The Ambassador of Sweden to the United Arab Emirates, Mr. Bruno Beijer, opened the DUXIANA store in Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Road, together with the DUXIANA President, Mr. Christer Welander.

His Excellency the Ambassador of Sweden Mr. Bruno Beijer said that he was very proud to see yet another Swedish company expanding its business globally and especially in the fast growing Arab markets. DUXIANA, is known in Sweden for its “advanced technology in sleeping” gained through decades of research and development.

DUXIANA is a prime example of how traditional Swedish products succeed internationally by offering superior quality.

The President of DUXIANA International, Mr. Christer Welander expressed his delight from seeing DUXIANA continuing to expand its international His Excelency The Ambassador operations by entering of Sweden, Mr. Bruno Beijer the very important Arab (left) and Mr. Christer Welander, Markets and especially the The President of DUXIANA city of Dubai. He went on International (right) to articulate his company’s

82 I Travel Arabia I July

(L-R) Mr. Dikran Tchablakian, Mrs. Janet Tchablakian, H.E. Mr. Bruno Beijer, Mrs. Elena Panayiotou, Mr. Christer Welander

vision to continue offering the ultimate in comfort and support blended with the science of sleep via the world famous DUX bed.

The Chairman of Cyngbel LLC., the local partner of DUXIANA, Mr. Dikran Tchablakian shared his company’s vision to expand the distribution network of DUXIANA in the Arab world. The company has plans to open a DUXIANA store in every major city in the Arab world with Abu Dhabi being the next stop.

The store in Dubai follows the DUXIANA modern design concept.

It provides a “Display” area as well as a “Test” area where the four different models of DUX beds can be tried out in a quiet and elegant environment.

Well trained staff is available to describe the qualities of each model as well as to explain through exhibition samples how the mattresses are designed and structured. Stocks are available and delivery can take place within 72 hours.

Etihad Airways and Millennium and Copthorne Hotels have formed a new partnership which enables members of Etihad’s frequent flyer programme to earn miles when staying at any of the group’s 67 hotels.

Members of the airline’s “Etihad Guest” loyalty scheme, from 1 June, will have the opportunity to earn 500 miles with each stay at one of Millennium and Copthorne’s hotels around the world.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ executive vice president marketing and product, said: “This agreement is another example of how Etihad Guest members can enjoy the benefits of the programme wherever they are in the world.

Furthermore, by earning 500 miles with each stay at a Millennium and Copthorne hotel, our members will be able to increase significantly the value of their account.”

Ali Lakhraim, CEO of Millennium and Copthorne Middle East Holdings Limited, said: “Millennium and Copthorne Hotels is to grow the number of hotels it has both in the Middle East and in other regions. This partnership provides Etihad Guest members with another valuable mileage-earning opportunity at luxurious hotels in the United States, Asia, Africa and Europe as well as the Middle East.”

Etihad Guest membership is free and mile accrual is immediate, with individuals from every country aged two-years old and upwards eligible to join. For more information or to enrol online, visit: www.etihadguest.com.

Fulfill your dream holidays Al Masaood Travel & Services, one of the leading travel agencies in Abu Dhabi has launched their summer 2007 brochure titled “My Holiday”, featuring the classical destinations as well as new and exciting places around the world.

“The special thing about this brochure is that it offers various destinations that will suit every person whether traveling alone, as a couple, honeymooner, family, adventurer, or just looking for a spa to relax, for a high performance medical treatment and even trying to improve their children soccer skills through professional sports camps” said Hani Hibri Tsuruta, Tours & Business Development Manager.

“My Holiday” brochure feature holiday packages for the family; tailor-made services for business travellers; incentive tours for corporate clients; honeymooners’ packages; Spa & Wellness packages; health tourism and summer sports camps for children. Air tickets and reservations for more than 25,000 hotels worldwide plus rental service with more than 300,000 vehicles worldwide are also part of the summer offerings from Al Masaood Travel & Services.

Features places are Egypt, Lebanon, Tunisia, Maldives, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Switzerland, England, France, Italy, Austria, Germany, Brazil, Australia and a whole lot more.

Check out their special 7-days package starting AED 999 including 6 nights hotel accommodation in Cairo and Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt including round trip transfers between airport and hotel, special dinner at the 5-star floating restaurant with entertainment.

Maldives, a major destination for scuba divers and surfers offer 6 nights/7 day package starting at AED2750. Enjoy sun, sand and sea, a “thousand Robinson Crusoe” islands, massive lagoons with different depths and infinite shades of blue and turquoise, and dazzling coral gardens which make a perfect natural combination for the ideal tropical holiday destination.

Take your family to a 4-day Euro Disney tour starting from AED 5900 which includes

Disney hotel, Park tickets, transfers and airfare.

This is one of the many exciting places to visit France, known as the “City of Lights and Europe’s most popular destination.

Spend a lovely summer in Bulgaria and discover a vast, boundless world of secrets and adventures. Anyone setting foot on Bulgarian land will learn how the freshly picked rose is turned into fragrant rose oil, how the traditional banitsa is baked, how the Bulgarian yoghurt tastes and where in awe-inspiring mountains you can find small picturesque old towns and fantastically painted monasteries.

While in Bulgaria, stay at the luxurious 5-star Kempinski Hotel at the Golden beaches of Varna starting AED 1485 including meet and assist at the airport, round trip transfer between airport and hotel, 3 nights hotel accommodation and Varna city tour!

Recover your zest for life, restore your vitality, get back to the sources of fitness and infuse the pleasure of travelling to amazing countries which can offer you the finest way to a better health…as well as discover the healing wonders of nature combined with ultramodern medical technologies.

Visit the largest and best known spas in the Czech Republic like The Karlovy Vary; The Marianske Lazne, known as the most important spa in the world; The Jachymov, the foundation of the first radioactive spa in the world; The Piest’any, the most outstanding Slovak spa for treating diseases and certain organic nervous disorders and The Klimkovice, famous for curative baths in iodine-bromide water making it the main specialization and the biggest attraction of the spa.

Al Masaood Travel & Services is a pioneer in the travel business, with more than 38 years of experience in the UAE market. It also acts as the general sales agent (GSA) for Air France, Lufthansa and Egypt Air as well as a sole representative for Lufthansa City Centre and American Express International.

The company with five branches in Abu Dhabi is currently providing services to more than 10,000 corporate employees in 250 companies.

For more information, please call 02-6212100, log on to www.almasaoodtravel.com or send an emai to mail@ almasaoodtravel.com

July I Travel Arabia I 83

TRAVEL DIRECTORY

ALGERIA ALGERIA General Information Area

Embassies & Consulates Argentina 7 Rue Hamani 718683 643843 Australia 7 Rue Jean Rey, 75724 Paris cedex, France

40593300 592081 Austria Les Vergers,Rue No.2 DZ-16330 Bir Mourad Rais

562699 567352 Bangladesh 14 Ave.des Frères Oughlis 594805 603629 Belgium 22 Chemin Youssef Tayebi,El-Biar 922446 925036 Brazil 48 Boulevard Mohammad V 749575 749687 Bulgaria 13 Boulevard Bougara,El Biar 691514 691787 Canada 18 Mustafa Khaled St.,P.O.Box 48 914951 693920 China 34 Boulevawrd Des Martyrs 692724 693056 Colombia 7 Avenue Malika Gaid,El-Biar 922090 923817 Cote D’ivoire Parc Paradeaux P.O.Box 710,Hydra 692828 693683 Czech Republic P.O.Box 999,Villa Malika 692274 693031 Denmark 12 Ave.Emile Marquis,Hydra 692234 692846 Egypt P.O.Box 297,Hydra 691807 692952 Finland P.O.Box 256 Hydra 691212 691637 France 25 Chemin Gaddouche,Hydra 692488 691369 Germany P.O.Box 664,165 Chemin Sfindja

741956 740521 Greece 60 Blvd.Col.Bougara 600855 691655 Holy See 1 Rue Noureddine Mekiri 16090 Bologhine 623430 572375 Hungary P.O.Box 68 ,El-Mouradia 691709 694431 India 14 Rue Des Ambassades 923444 924011 Iraq 4 Rue Arezki Abri,Hydra 603125 601097 Italy

84 I Travel Arabia I July

18 Rue Mohammad Ouidir,Amellal Al-Biar Japan 1 Chemin Al Bakri,El-Biar Jordan 6 Rue Chenoua,Hydra Korea Repub 21 Rue Stambuli El-Mouradia Kuwait Chemin Abdel Kader Gaddouche Lebanon Rue Du Hoggar,Hydra Libya 15 Chemin Sheikh Bashir Ibrahimi Mauritania 107 Lot Baranes,Air de France, Bouzareah Mexico P.O.Box 329,El –Biar Netherlands P.O.Box 72 El-Biar Nigeria P.O.Box F629,Hydra Oman 126 Rue Didouche Mourad Pakistan P.O.Box 621,Djeann El-Malik,Hydra Poland 37 Ave.Mustafa Ali Khodja,El-Biar Portugal 12 Lot El-Feth El-Biar Qatar P.O.Box 118,Bin Aknoun Romania 24 Rue Arezki Abri, Hydra Russia Chemin Prince D’Amman El-Biar Saudi Arabia 4 Rue Arezki Abri,Hydra Spain 10 Rue Azil Ali Sweden Rue Olof Palme Nouveau Paradou,Hydra Switzerland P.O.Box 482,27 Boulevard Zirout Youssef Syria 11 Chemin A.Gaddouche Hydra Tunisia 11 Rue Du Bois De Bologne Hydra Turkey

292330

793766

912004

912046

08.00 to 12.00 Thu

2,381,741 sq.Kms

Electricity

Population

220 volts (110 volts in some

31,19 million (2000 est.)

areas).

Capital

A continental adapter is

El-Djazair (Algiers)

necessary 127 volts or 3-phase

Main Cities

127/220/380 AC 50 cycles.

Algiers, Wahran/Oran,

Hotels may have a mixture of 127

Qacentina, Annaba Al-Boulaida,

and 220 volts.

Si di Bel-Abbes, Setif, Tizi Ousou.

Visas

Temperature/climate

Visas are required by all except

Summer: 27 to 32C

nationals of Egypt, Iraq, Jordan,

Coast temperature,13 to 24C

Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya,

Winter:Temperature variations

Mauritania, Morocco, Sudan,Syria,

inland,dropping to as little as 10C

Tunisia, Yemen, Andorra Denmark,

in the Sahara at night

Finland, Guinea, Iceland, Ireland,

Languages

Italy, Leichenstein, Mali, Monaco,

Arabic (official)

Norway, San Marino, Sweden,

French (commercial)

Switzerland

692031

691554

692076

693014

Berber (in rural areas)

693408

693037

Airports

Customs Regulations

Algiers (920 Km from city centre)

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or

594977

692397

Annaba (12 Km from city centre)

400 gr of tobacco and 1 bottle of

924687

Constantine (9 Km from city

wine are admitted free of Duty

921502 792139 924023 922828 691849

centre)

Currency regulations

784274

Wahran 910 Km from city centre)

Any amount of foreign currency

923451

Tlemcen (20 Km form city centre)

may be taken into Algeria but is

No airport tax on departure

prohibited to take any Algerian

Ports

currency into or out of the country.

Algiers (principal), Annaba, Oran,

Proof of all foreign exchange

Skikda, Mostaganem, Bejaia

transactions must be presented

Business Hours

on departure.All foreign visitors

Government offices and state

must change a minimum of AD

Enterprises

1000.

923770 691175

941310

941375

693781

692212

922553

08.00 to 17.00 Sat to Wed

Currency

92541

0800 to 12.00 Thu

1 Algerian dinar (AD) =100

922856

922415

Banks

Centimes

690871

693642

783134

782882

925313

603518 922713

922719

692300

691917

737310

738158

912026

912030

691388

692316

09.00 to 16.00 Sat to Wed Chemin De La Rochelle, Blv Col.Bourgara UAE P.O.Box 454 El Mouradia UK P.O.Box 8,7 Chemin DES Glycines USA 4,CHEMIN Sheikh Bashir El-Ibrahimi Yemen Villa 41,Ave.Les Verges Venezuela Chemin du Kadous Hydra Zaire 5 Rue Saint Georges,Kouba

691257

693161

692574

593770

230068

230067

691255

693979

693085

691758

693846

607555

591227

Embassies & Consulates

BAHRAIN

KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

General Information Area

on depature BHD 3.

Tourist visas available at Bahraini embassies or on

707 sq.Km

Ports

arrival at entry points-Bahrain Airport or the King

Population

Mina Sulman

Fahd Causeway from Saudi Arabia.Visas cost BD

(200 estimate) 642.000

Business Hours

10 for 72 hours or BD 15 for 7 days.

Capital

Government Offices

Customs regulations

Manama

07.00 to 13.00 Sat. to Wed.

400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or _ 1

Main Cities

Commercial Offices

bs.tobacco,some perfume,2 bottles of wine or

Manama, Muharraq Town, Isa Town, Jidhafs, Rifaa. 07.00 to 13.00 and 15:30 to 18:00 Sat To Thu. spirits.

Temperature/climate

Banks

Currency regulations

Summer: 40 to 45 C,hot, humid.

8.00 to 14.00 and 16.00 to 18.00 Sat. to Thu.

There are no restrictions on the amount of

Winter: Warm, dry, 10 C to 20 C.

Electricity

currency bring in/take out of Bahrain.

Languages

220-240 volts, Single-phase AC and 400 volts,

Currency

Arabic (official), and English (commercial).

three-phase AC.

1 Bahraini dinar (BHD)=1.000 FILS

Airport

Visas

Qatari riyal and UAE dirham are exchangeable at

Muharraq (505 Km from Manama)

Visas required for all except GCC and UK

rate of DH 10 or QR 10=BHD 1.

Taxis, hotel reservations, duty free shop Airport tax

nationals.

Algeria P.O.Box 26402,Manama Bangladesh P.O.Box 26718,Manama Belgium P.O.Box 5820,Manama China P.O.Box 3150,Manama Denmark P.O.Box 997,Manama Egypt P.O.Box 818,Manama France P.O.Box 11134,Manama Germany P.O.Box 10306,Manama Greece P.O.Box 5790,Manama India P.O.Box 26106,Adiliya Iran P.O.Box 26365,Manama Iraq P.O.Box 26477,Manama Japan P.O.Box 23720,Manama Jordan P.O.Box 5242,Manama Korea Rep P.O.Box 11700,Manama Kuwait P.O.Box 786,Manama Lebanon P.O.Box 2102,Manama Libya P.O.Box 26062,Adliya Morocco P.O.Box 26229,Manama Netherlands P.O.Box 350,Manama New Zealand P.O.Box 5881,Mnama Norway P.O.Box 10580,Manama Oman P.O.Box 26414,Manama Pakistan P.O.Box 563,Manama Palestine P.O.Box 1102 Philippines P.O.Box 26681,Manama Portugal P.O.Box11030,Manama Russia P.O.Box 26612,Manama Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1085,Manama Sudan P.O.Box 5438,Manama Sweden P.O.Box 412,Mnama Switzerland P.O.Box 795,Manama Tunisia P.O.Box 26911,Manama Turkey P.O.Box 10821, Manama UAE P.o.Box 26505, Manama UK P.O.Box 114, Manama USA P.O.Box 26431, Manama Yemen P.O.Box 26193,Manama

713669

713662

714717

710031

224631

229994

723800

727304

725119

826582

720005

721518

291734

293655

530210

536282

259211 712785

715527

722400

722101

786929

786220

716565

715059

291109

291980

291629

291628

534040

536475

786994

784998

714162 740566

740178

224320

212295

210284

210271

531480

530158

293663

293540

244113

255960

276099

276054

710200

710300

531533

530445

725222

725921

537722

533261

252546

252578

531085

530063

227811

224623

714149

715702

533448

536557

723737

727343

534404

531273

273300

272594

277072

262358

July I Travel Arabia I 85

General Information Area

centre)

997.738 sq.Km

Local airports at Aswan,

Population

Customs regulations

Hurghada, Luxor, Sharm El

Currency,jewellery and other

(2000 est.) 68.5 million

–Seikh.

valuables must be declared

Capital

Ports

Cairo

Alexandria (principal), Port Said,

Goods valued up to £E100 may

Main Cities

Suez, Damietta, Safaga.

be exported.200 cigarettes or

EGYPT

EGYPT

on entry.

Cairo,Alexandria,Ismalia,Port

Business Hours

Said.

Government: 08.00 to 14.00

litre wine or spirits.

Temperature/ climate

Sat.to Wed,08.00 to 13.00 Thu,10.00 to 12.00 Sun.

Currency regulations

Summer 22 to 35 C in Cairo,

Businesses: Variable (some

The import or export of Egyptian

Winter: 9 to 22 C in Cairo.

closed on Fri, others on Sun.)

currency is prohibited.All receipts

25 cigars or 200 gms tobacco,1

More temperature along

Banks

Mediterranean coasts “Khamsin”

09.00 TO 13.30 Mon.to

currency into Egyptian pounds

(hot,dry wind in Spring)

Thu.,10.00 to 12.00 Sun.

should be kept to be presented

for the exchange of foreign

Languages

Electricity

Arabic, ( official),English and

220/240 volts 50 cycles AC in

Currency

French ( commercial).

Maadi and Heliopolis some 110

1 Egyptian pound(£E)=100

Airports

volts, 50 cycles AC.

piastres=1.000 millimes.

on departure.

Cairo (22.5 Km from city centre).

Visas

Coaches/taxis,duty-free

Visas are required by all foreign

shop,airport tax on departure.

visitors except most Arab

Alexandria (8 Km from city

nationals.

Embassies & Consulates Afghanistan 59 El Ourouba St. Heliopolis 4177236 Algeria 14 Al-Brazil Street, P.O.Box 39, Zamalek 3407671 Argentina 8 Al-Saleh Ayoub street,Zamalek 3401501 Australia 1191 Corniche El-Nile, Boulaq 5750444 Austria 5 Wissa Wassef St.Giza 5702974 Bahrain 15 Brazil Street,Zamalek 3407996 Bangladesh 47 Ahmed Heshmat Str.Zamalek 3402642 Belgium 20 Kamel El-Shinnawi St.Garden City 1125 3547494 Brazil Corniche El-Nile Maspero 5756938 Bulgaria 6 El-Malek El-Afdal Street, Zamalek 3543110 Canada 5 El-Saraya El-Kobra Square,Garden City 3543110 China 22 Bahgat Ali Street,Zamalek 3411219 Cyprus 23 A Ismail Mohammad Street,Zamalek 3411288 Czech Republic 4 Dokki St.,Giza 3485469 Denmark 12 Hassan Sabri Street,Zamalek 3402505 Finland 3 Abdul Feda Sreet,Zamalek 3411487 France 29 El-Giza Street, Giza 5703920 Germany 8 Hassan Sabri Street,Zamalek 3410015 Greece 18 Aisha El-Taimouria St.Garden City 3547200

86 I Travel Arabia I July

4177230 3414158 3414355 5781638 5702979 3416609 3412631 3543147 761040 3563548 3563548 3409459 3415299 3608089 3411780 3421376 5710276 3410530 3563903

Holy See Apostolic Nunciature 5 Mohammad Mazhar Street

3402250 Hungary 29 Mohammad Mazhar Street, Zamalek 3408634 India 5 Aziz Abaza Street,Zamalek 3413051 Iraq 9 Mohammad Mazhar St.,Zamalek 3408087 Italy 15 Abdel Rahman Fahmi St. Garden City 3543194 Japan 2 Abdel Qader St.,Garden City 3553963 Jordan 6 El Guhaini Street,Dokki,Giza 3485566 Kenya 7 El-Mohandis Galal St.Mohandisin 3453628 Kuwait 12 Nabil Al-Wakad Street,Dokki 3602661 Lebanon 5 Ahmad Nesim Street,Giza 3610623 Libya 7 El-Saleh Ayoub,Zamalek 3402487 Mauritania 14 Mohu El-din Abou El-Ezz St.,Dokki 3490671 Mexico 6 Ahmed Shawki Street,Giza 5716156 Morocco 10 Salaheddine Street,Zamalek 3409849 Netherlands 18 Hassan Sabri Street,Zamalek 3401936 Norway 8 El-Gezira St.Zamalek 3413955 Oman 52 El-Hegaz Street, Mohandiseen 3031708 Pakistan 8 Al-Salouli St. Dokki 3487504 Portugal

3406152 3408648 3414038 3415075 3540657 3563540 3601027 3443400 3602657 3610463

3489060 5783040 3400937 3415249 3420709 3036464 3480310

57 El- Giza St.,Giza Qatar 10 El-Themar St.,Dokki , Giza Romania 4 Aziz Abaza Street, Zamalek Russia 95 Giza St,Giza Saudi Arabia 2 Ahmad Nessim St., Singapore 40 Babel Street, Dokki Slovakia 4 Dokki St. Dokki Spain 44 Ismail Mohammed St.Zamalek Sudan 3 El Ibrahimi Street, Garden City Sweden 13 Mohammad Mazhar St.Zamalek Switzerland 10 Abed Al Khalek Sarwat St. Syria 18 Abdel Rahim Sabri St. Dokki Thailand 2 Malik El-Afdal St.Zamalek Tunisia 26 El-Gezira street,Zamalek Turkey 25 El-Falaki Street,Bab el-Louq UAE 4 Ibn Sina St.,Giza UK 7 Ahmed Ragheb St.,Garden City USA 5 Latin America Str.,Garden City Yemen 28 Amin El-Rifaii Street,Dokki

3363950

3363952

3604693

3603618

3410107

3410151

3489354

3609074

3490797

3494590

3490468

3481682

3486550 3406397

3547359

3545658

3542693

3411484

3404357

3402250

5745236

3358320

3358232

3408356

3400340

3408962

3412479

3563318

3558110

3609722

5700844

3540850

3543065

3557371

3573200

3614225

3604815

IRAQ IRAQ

General Information Area 438.317 sq.Km

Population 21.7 million(2000 est.)

Capital Baghdad

Main Cities Baghdad, Basra, Mosul, Kirkuk

Temperature/climate Summer 24 to 42C in Baghdad,humid,hotter and more humid in Basra More temperature in north.Winter:4 to 16 C in Baghdad.

Languages Arabic (official and commercial).

Airport Baghdad (17 Km from City Centre) Coaches/taxis,duty free shop-airport tax on departure

Ports Basra (principal),Fao (oil) Government Offices: Summer 08.00 to 14.00 Sat.to Wed & 08.00 to 13.00 Thu. Winter: 08.30 to 14.30 Sat To Wed. and 08.30 to 13.30 Thu. Shops and Firms: Summer 08.30 to 13.00 and 16.00 to 20.00 Sat.To Wed.& 08.30 to 13.00 Thu. Winter:08.30 to 14.30 and 17.00 to 19.00 Sat To Wed and 08.30 to 13.30 Thu.

Banks Summer 08.30 to 12.30 Sat to Wed. and 08.30 to 11.30 Thu. Winter: 09.00 to 13.00 Sat To Wed. and 09.00 to 12.00 Thu.

Electricity 220 volts,50 cycles AC.

Visas Visas are required for all visitors except nationals of Egypt, Jordan, and Sudan.

Visa applications should be made well in advance and supported by a written invitation from a government organization.No admission granted to visitors holding passports showing evidence of travel to Israel.

Visitors must register for stays exceeding 14 days and exit visas are required for visits exceeding 30 days.Apply to Directorate of Residence,52nd street Baghdad, Tel:92377 Test for HIV (The Aids Virus) is required.

Customs Regulations Country under UN embargo,The import of most goods is prohibited.

Currency

Embassies & Consulates Afghanistan P.O.Box 674 Algeria P.O.Box 444, Lane 35 Argentina P.O.Box 2443,Lane 24 Australia P.O.Box 661, Al Masbah Austria P.O.Box 294,Lane 2 Bahrain P.O.Box 27117, Lane 7 Bangladesh 75/17/929 Hay Babe Belgium Hay Babel,Mahallat 929 Brazil P.O.Box 2088, Lane 16 Bulgaria Amireyah Embassies Quarter Canada P.O.Box 323,Lane 1 China P.O.Box 225 Czech Republic Mansour St., Lane 37 Denmark P.O.Box 2001, Alwiyah Egypt P.O.Box 6315,Lane 11 Finland P.O.Box 2041, Alwiyah France P.O.Box 118 Germany P.O.Box 2036, Lane 2 Greece 63/3/913 Hay Al-Jamia AL-Jadiriya Holy See P.O.Box 2090,Lane 2 Hungary P.O.Box 2065 India P.O.Box 4114, Adhaiyah Indonesia St. 2, Houre 77, P.O.Box 420 Italy P.O.Box 2043,Lane 73 Japan P.O.Box 2369, Lane 17 Jordan Kindi Quarter 1 sec.213 Korea Rep.

5560562 5372181 7768140 7193434 7199033 5428945 7196367 7198297 5411365 5568197 5421459 5562741 7767367

5430275

7717052

7170635

5430572 7766271

7760488

7196061 7192037

7180340

7766572 7195183

7196520

7765000 4222014

4229549

7198677

7198680

7765058 7195157 5412892

7196186

915/222/8278, Hay al -Jamia Malaysia 6/14/929 Hay Babel Mauritania Al Mansour, Baghdad Mexico 601/11/45 Al- Mansour Morocco P.O.Box 6039,Lane 11 Netherlands P.O.Box 2064, Lane 35 New Zealand P.O.Box 2350 Norway 20/3/609 Hay-Al Mansour Oman P.O.Box 6180, Lane 13 Pakistan Al-Mansour 14/7/609 Palestine P.O.Box 3122 Philippines P.O.Box 3236,Lane 3 Poland P.O.Box 2051, Lane 13 Portugal P.O.Box 2123,Lane 25 Qatar P.O.Box 2445,Lane 46 Romania P.O.Box 2571 Russia 4/5/605 Al-Moutanabi Somalia P.O.Box 2078, Lane 1 Spain P.O.Box 2072, Lane 1 Sudan P.O.Box 213, Lane 15 Sweden P.O.Box 720, Lane 41 Switzerland P.O.Box 2107, Lane 5 Thailand P.O.Box 6062, Al-Mansour Tunisia P.O.Box 6057,Al Mansour Turkey P.O.Box 14001,Waziriya UAE P.O.Box 6192, Lane 13 Yemen P.O.Box 13037,Lane 28

7765496 7762622 5518261 7198039 5421779 7767616 7768176 5410097 5518198 5415120 7183146 7193228 7190297 7764953 5412186 7762860 5414749 5410088 7192852 5424889 7195361 7193091 5418795 5517786 2220021

2228353

5417026 7760647

1 Iraqi dinar (ID)= 1.000 FILS

July I Travel Arabia I 87

Embassies & Consulates Algeria P.O.Box 1223,3rd Circle,Jabal Amman Australia Bet.4th & 5th Circles,Zahran St. Austria Jabal Amman Bahrain Jabal Amman Belgium Hawari Boumedienne St.,Near 4th Circle Brazil Jabal Amman,3rd Circle Bulgaria Amman Canada P.O.Box 815403,PC 11180 China P.O.Box 2023,PC 11181 Egypt Jabal Amman,3rd Circle France P.O.Box 5348,Mutanabi St. Germany Jabal Amman Greece P.O.Box 35069 Holy See Amman Hungary Amman India P.O.Box 2168,1st Circle Italy 5/7 Hafez Ibrahim St.,Jabal El Webdeh Japan Al-Aqsa Street,Jabal Amman Kuwait Jabal Amman Lebanon 2nd Circle, Amman Libya Amman Morocco Jabal Amman Oman Jabal Amman Pakistan Jabal Weibdeh Philippines Amman Qatar Jabal Amman Romania Jabal Amman, P.O.Box 2869 Russia Jabal Amman Saudi Arabia Jabal Amman, 5th Circle Spain Jabal Amman Sudan Jabal Amman Sweden 12 Embassy St. Jabal Amman Jabal Amman Syria Jabal Amman, 4th Circle Tunisia Jabal Amman Turkey P.O.Box 2062,PC 11181 UAE Jabal Amman UK P.O.Box 87, Abdoun, Amman USA P.O.Box 354,PC 11181 Yemen Jabal Amman

88 I Travel Arabia I July

4641271

4616552

5930246

4616552

4644635

4612725

5664148

5664190

5931859

5930487

5925416

4612964

5529391

5539393

5666124

5689227

5931530

5932607

Area

shop,airport tax on departure.

220 volts,50 cycles AC.

5605175

5604082

92.000 sq.Km

Port

Visas

Aqaba

Visas required by all and can be obtained from

4641273

4659606

Population (2000 est.) 5 million

Business Hours

any Jordanian consulate.

Capital

Government Offices:

Some visitors may acquire visas on arrival at

Amman

08.30 to 15.30 Sat to Thu

International airports.

Main Cities

Ramadan: 09.30 to 13.30 Sat to Thu.

Customs regulations

Amman, Aqaba, Irbid, Zarka

Commercial Offices:

200 cigarettes,25 cigars or 200 g tobacco,1

Temperature/climate

Summer:08.00 to 13.30 and 15.30 to 19.30

bottle of spirits.

Summer 18 C to 22 C in Amman,Dry,

Sat to Thu.

Currency regulations

5930351

5932887

5672331

5696591

5929934

5694059

JORDAN JORDAN

General Information

5925614

5930836

4623175

4619172

Winter 4C to 12 C in Amman,dry.

Winter: 08.30 to 13.30 and 15.00 to 18.30

Export of currency equal to the amount declared

4638185

4659730

Languages

Sat to Thu.

on entry is permitted.

Arabic (official), English (commercial)

Banks

Currency

5930486

5931006

Airport

08.30 to 15.30 Sat. to Thu.

1 Jordanian dinar(JOD)=1.000 fils.

5675135

5681971

Amman (32 Km from city centre. Taxi, duty free

Electricity

5929111

5929113

5693102

5693404

5921771

5925185

5686155

5680404

4624680

4611633

5518134

5518441

5607311

5607350

5667738

5684018

4641158

4647448

5924154

5921154

4614167

4614173

4644251

4644187

5931177 5931416

5930179 5930685

4641935

4651945

5674307

5605790

4641251

4612353

5934780

5932666

5923100

5923759

5920101

5920121

4642381

4654717

General Information General Information

Wed.08.00 to 12.30 Thu.

Area

Ramadan 08.00 to 14.00 Sat to Thu.

17.8182 sq.Km

Banks

Population

08.00 to 12.00 Sat.to Thu.

(2000 estimate) 2 million

Ramadan 8.30 to 12.30 Sat to Thu.

Capital

Electricity

Kuwait City

240 Volts single-phase

Main Cities

50 cycles AC

Kuwait City, Ahmadi, Hawali, Farwaniya, Al-Jahra

Temperature/climate

KUWAIT KUWAIT

Visas Visas or entry permits are required in advance by all

Summer 40 to 45 C, dry, dust, storms.

visitors except for nationals of the GCC states.

Winter cool, some rainfall in November to January.

Transit visas are not required by passengers

Languages

continiuing their journey to a third country bt the same

Arabic (official), English (commercial).

aircraft,or by passengers transiting within 24 hours.

Airport

However,passengers must have tickets with reserved

Kuwait (16 Km or 30 mn from city center).

seats and valid documents for their onward journey.With

Taxis, duty-free shop, no airport tax.

visas for a visit sponsored by a kuwaiti resident a form in

Ports

duplicate must be validated by the Ministery of Interior.

Mina Abdulla (oil)

For a visit without a sponsor, form in duplicate can be

Mina Al Ahmadi (principally oil)

obtained from a Kuwaiti consulate.Some Nationals

Shuwaikh (container,ro-ro, slipway) Shuaiba

require a No Objection Certificate issued by Minister

Business Hours

of Interior.

Government Offices:

Customs regulations

Winter 07.30 to 13.00 Sat to Wed.,

No alcohol,500 cigarettes,2lb tobacco.

07.30 to 11.30 Thu.

Currency regulations

Summer 07.00 to 13.00 Sat.to Wed.

There are no restrictions on the import or export of

Ramadan 08.30 or 09.00 to 13.00 Sat to Thu.

currency

Commercial Offices:

Currency

08.00 to 12.00 and 15.00 to 18.00 Sat.to

1Kuwaiti dinar(KD)=1.000 fils

Embassies & Consulates Afghanistan P.O.Box 22944 Safat,13015 Algeria P.O.Box 578,Safat Austria P.O.Box 44180,Hawali 32056 Bahrain P.O.Box 196,Safat 13002 Bangladesh P.O.Box 22344,Safat 13084 Belgium P.O.Box 3280,Safat Brazil P.O.Box 39761,Safat Bulgaria P.O.Box 12090,Kuwait City Canada P.O.Box 25281,Safat 13113 China P.O.Box 2346,Safat 13024 Cuba P.O.Box 23685,Safat 13124 Czech Republic P.O.Box 1151,Safat Egypt P.O.Box 11252,Safat Finland P.O.Box 26699,Safat France P.O.Box 1037,Safat 13011 Gabon P.O.Box 1230,Hawali 32013 Germany P.O.Box 5930,Safat 13060

2433075

5326274

2427185

2519497

2467421

2449993

5318530

5330882

2542688

5722018

2561029

2562153

2561029

2562153

5314458

5321453

2563025

2560173

5330165

5333341

5382024

2402971

2529015

2529021

2519955

2563877

5312890

5324198

5319850

2571058

4830975 4817055

2520763

Hungary P.O.Box 5671,Safat 13057 India P.O.Box 1450,Safat 13015 Indonesia P.O.Box 21560, Safat 13076 Iran P.O.Box 4686,Safat Italy P.O.Box 4453,Safat 13045 Japan P.O.Box 2304,Safat 13024 Jordan P.O.Box 5242,Safat 13053 Korea Rep. P.O.Box 20771,Safat 13068 Lebanon P.O.Box 253,Safat Libya P.O.Box 21460,Safat 13075 Morocco P.O.Box 784,Safat 13008 Netherlands P.O.Box 21822,Safat Niger P.O.Box 44451, Hawali 32059 Nigeria P.O.Box 6432,Hawali 32039 Oman P.O.Box 21975,Safat 13080 Pakistan P.O.Box 988,Safat 1310 Philippines P.O.Box 26288,Safat 13123

5312600

5313782

2530600

2525811

2514588

4819250

2560694

2529868

2445120

2445124

2518155

5326168

2533500

2570894

4814004

2526874

2562103

2571682

3529172

2575182

4813700

5317423

5312650

5326334

5316802

5652943

5320794

5320834

2561962

2961963

5327649

5327648

5329315

5329319

Poland P.O.Box 5066,Safat 13051 Qatar P.O.Box 1825,Safat 13019 Romania P.O.Box 11149, Dasmah 35152

Russia P.O.Box 1765,Safat 13018 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 20498,Safat 13065 Spain P.O.Box 22207,Safat 13083 Sweden P.O.Box 21448,Safat Switzerland P.O.Box 23954, Safat 13100 Syria P.O.Box 25600,Safat 13112 Thailand P.O.Box 66647,Bayan 43757 Tunisia P.O.Box 5976,Safat Turkey P.O.Box 20627,Safat 13067

UAE P.O.Box 1828,Safat 13019 UK P.O.Box 2,Safat 13001 USA P.O.Box 77,Safat 13001 Yugoslavia P.O.Box 20511,Safat 13066

2510355

2534760

2513599

2563428

4843419

4848929

5646277

5659044

2400250

2420654

5325827

5325826

2523588

2564224

2551872

5340176

2531164

5396509

5317530

5317532

2522416

2528995

2531785

2560653

2518569

2526382

2403335

2426799

2424151

2407368

4818872

5327568

July I Travel Arabia I 89

LEBANON

LEBANON

General Information

Area

08.00 to 14.00 Monday to Thursday.

10.452 sq.Km

08.00 to 11.00 Friday, 08 to 13 Saturday.

Population

Commercial offices

(2000 estimate) 3.6 million

08.30 to 18.00 Mon.to Fri.

Capital

Banks

Beirut

08.30 to 12.30 Monday to Friday.

Main Cities

08.30 to 12.00 Saturday.

Beirut, Tripoli, Jounieh, Zahle, Sidon, Tyre

Electricity

Temperature/Climate

110 Volts,50 cycles AC and 220 volts,50 cycles AC.

Summer 23 C to 32 C in Beirut, humid.

Visas

Winter 11 C to 17 C in Beirut,moist, rainfall, especially in January.

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals of Syria.Telex/Fax

Highlands are cooler, with winter snowfalls.

invitation required from sponsor to be sent to Embassy.

Languages

Westerners wishing to visit Lebanon can get instant visas at Beirut airport

Arabic (official), French and English (commercial)

,seaport or at Lebanese border checkpoints.

Airport

Customs regulations

Beirut ( 16 Km from city centre) Coaches/taxis,duty-free shop-airport tax

Visitors should check with airport duty-free shops on current regulations.

on departure.

Currency regulations

Ports

No Restrictions.

Beirut (principal), Tripoli (main port for North), Jounieh, Sidon (main port

Currency

for South)

1500 Lebanese pound(ÂŁLeb)= 1 US dollars.

Business Hours Government offices

Embassies & Consulates

Algeria P.O.Box 4794,Jnah Argentina P.O.Box 11-5245,Starco Area Armenia Rabieh Australia Bliss Street,Ras Beirut Austria Tabaris ,Ashrafieh

90 I Travel Arabia I July

01/826711

826712

01/987900

987903

04/418860 01/374701

374709

01/217412

217772

Bahrain Bliss Street,Itani Bldg 03/611936 367952 Belgium Hebu Building,Baabda Beirut 05/920551 923987 Brazil P.O.Box 166175,Rue Des Antonins,Baabda 05/921138 923001 Bulgaria Raoucheh 01/861352 Canada Sheraton Hotel,Damascus 0211/6116851

611803 Jal el Dib Highway 04/713900 710595 Chile Naccache 04/418670 418672 China Ramlet Al-Baida 01/850315 822492 Denmark Ain Mreiseh 01/364264 372970 Egypt Ramlet El-Baida 01/867917 863751 France Hazmieh,Beirut 01/420000 420013 Germany P.O.Box 2820,Rabieh 04/914444 914450 Greece P.O.Box 309,Naccache 04/521700 418774 Hungary Fanar 01/898857 India P.O.Box 113-5240,Kantari St. 01/372811 373538 Iran Bir Hassan 01/821230 821224 Italy Centre Ville,Beirut 01/985200 985305 Japan P.O.Box 3360,Baabda 01/989751 989754 Jordan

Baabda Kuwait Bir Hassan,Jnah Libya Verdun,Beirut Mexico New Naccache Morocco Ain-el-Tineh Pakistan Shell Bldg,Raoucheh Philippines Raoucheh,Beirut Poland Baabda Qatar P.O.Box 6717,Chouran Romania Baabda Russia Mar Elias,Beirut Saudi Arabia Koreitem, Beirut Spain Palace Chehab, Hadath Antounieh Sudan Mme Curie St. Sweden Achrafieh Switzerland Ave.Fouad Chehab, Achrafieh Tunisia Hazmieh,Mar Takla Turkey Rabieh,Area 2,Str.3 UAE Wafic Tabbara Bldg,Jnah UK Zkak El-Blat USA Aoukar,Beirut Venezuela Zalka,P.O.Box 603 Yemen Bir Hassan,P.O.Box 114-5097 Yugoslavia P.O.Box 742, Sanayeh

05/922500

922502

01/822515

842220

01/806314

805349

04/418870 01/862966

865194

01/863041

864583

01/791093

791095

05/468152

746620

01/865271

810460

05/924484

924747

01/300042

303837

01/860351

861524

05/464120

464030

01/353270 01/339505

339394

01/324129

324167

05/457431

950434

04/412080

407557

01/857000

857009

01/990400

990420

04/542600

544136

01/888701

403670

01/852682

821610

01/739633

739638

LIBYA LIBYA

Embassies & Consulates Afghanistan Sharia Al-Aftas 4771183,4775192

4775192 Algeria Sharia El-Kairouan 4440052 4447042 Argentina Sharia Ibn Mufarrej 4770588 TX20190 Austria Dahra 4443393,444

4440838 Bangladesh Hadbe El-Khadra 903807

900856

901866 TX 20970 Belgium Tower No.4,5th Floor 3333660

3333771 75618 Benin Quartier Gout-Shaal 830990 Tx 20357 Bosnia Ben Ashour 602406 602162 Brazil S.Ben Ashour 607969,608 3614895 Bulgaria S.Benin Ashour 609690/4444 Burkina Faso Gergaresh 4771221 4772626 Chad Dahra 4443955 TX 20341 China Andalous 4775131 4775689 China-Taiwan Gergaresh 4775052/478

4774980 Cuba Andalous 4771346 4776294 Cyprus Ben Ashour 609728/6015

609547 Czech Rep. Ben Ashour 361543/37 600839 Denmark Andalous 606848 TX 20978 Egypt Sharia-El-Shatt 4444945

4448909 4449262 Finland Ghot Eshaal 830559 830559 France Andalous 4778267

4773807 4778266 Germany S.Hassan El-Mashai 4448552

4448333 4448968 Ghana Al-Suwae Khetumi 4444256 TX 20879 India S.Mahloud Shaltut 4447899

4441835 3337560 Iraq Gourgi 4770487

4770780 Iran El-Jamahiriya 606871

6069 602687 Italia S.Uahran 3334131/2/3

3333447 3331673 Japan Tower No.4 Hall 13/14 607462/3 607462 Korea Gergaresh 833484/

8331 833503 Kuwait Ben Ashour 4440282/

444 607053 Lebanon Ben Ashour 3333733/

334 TX 20609 Malaysia Andalous 833693/

8337 833692 Mali Rue Dahanal 33313304/

44 3331304 Malta

Rue Dahanal

Mauritania S.Eysa Wokwak Morocco April Str. Nicaragua S.Al Nassr Pakistan Manshia Ben Ashour Palestine Tripoli Philippines Tripoli Poland Ben Ashour

Ruanda Andalous

Romania Ben Ashour

Saudi Arabia Tripoli Slovak Rep Jallal Bayar St.

Somalia Gurji

Sudan

3338081/ 334

4448401

4443223/444 611101 3330800

TX 20346

608269 333600411

607619/ 6076

TX 20049

4772864/ 4772865

4770317

607904/ 6079

TX 20482

3330485/333 3332568/ 3332805 4773124/ 477

3332568

Gergaresh Syria Mohamed Rashed St.

Switzerland Ben Ashour

Togo Khalid Ibn Al Waleed Tunisia Tripoli

UAE Gergaresh

Uganda Ben Ashour UNDP Turkiya Street

UNICEF Adr.UNDP UNIC Andalous Venezuela Ben Ashour

Vietnam Gergaresh

4772728

4774781

3337955/ 333

TX 20218

607365/ 607366

607487

4449565

3332423

33.310.613.

331.052 TX 20217 4773146/ 47

TX 20189

4448006

TX 20219

3330852/ 3/4/5/7

3330856

4770251

TX 20733

3600407/ 36

3600408

833704/ 8307

830994

TX 2205

General Information Area

Business Hours

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals

1,757,000 sq.Km

Government offices

of all Arab countries.Passport may need Arabic

Population

Winter:(1 Nov.to 31 March)

Translation.Invitation from Libyan company

(2000 estimate)5.1 million

08.00 to 15.00 Sat.to Thu.

required.

Capital

Summer:07.00 to 14.00

Customs regulations

Tripoli

Sat.To Thu.

No alcohol.200 cigarettes,250 grams

Main Cities

Commercial offices

tobacco,0.25 litre perfume.

Tripoli,Benghazi,Misurata,Surt,Sabha

07.30 to 14.30 Sat.To Thu

Currency regulations

Temperature/Climate

16.00 to 17.30 Sat.To Wed.

A maximum of 20 Libyan dinar on entry and

In Tripoli:Summer:22 to 38 C,dry.

Banks

departure.No restrictions on other currencies

Winter:8 to 20C,most rainfall in January.

Winter:08.00 to 13.00 Sat. to Thu.

though the amount taken out must not exceed

Languages

Summer:08.00 to 12.30

that taken in.

Arabic(official),English and Italian(commercial)

Sat.to Thu.and 16.00 to 19.00 Sat.to Wed.

Currency

Airports

Electricity

1 Lybian dinar(LD) =1.000 dirhams.

Tripoli(25 Km from City Centre)

220 volts 50 cycles AC.

Benghazi(main port for East)

Visas

July I Travel Arabia I 91

MOROCCO MOROCCO

General Information

Area 710,850 sq.Km

Population 30.20 million(2000 estimate)

Capital Rabat

Main Cities Rabat, Casablanca, Fez,Marrakech, Meknes ,Tangier,Agadir

Temperature/Climate Summer 35 to 45 C in the interior,dry 18 to 28 C along the Mediterrenean,dry.

Winter wide daily variation in the interior,dry,8 C to 17 C in the North, With frequent frosts,rainfall in December.

Languages Arabic, French (commercial), Berber

Airports Tangier (15 Km from City Centre)

Embassies & Consulates Algeria 46 Boulevard Tarek Ibn Ziad Argentina 12 Mekki Bitaouri str.,Souissi Austria 2 Tiddas,Rabat Belgium 6 Marrakesh Ave., Rabat Brazil Cadi Benjalloun St.,Rabat Bulgaria 4 Ave.de Meknes Canada 13 Bisr Jaffar Assadik China 16 Ahmad Balagies Ave Czech Republic Ate.Zaers,Km 4,Souissi Denmark P.O.Box 203, 4 Khemisset St. Egypt 31 Alger Avenue Finland 16 Khemisset Street,Rabat France 3 Sahnoun Street,Rabat Germany 7 Maduine St. Greece Rte. Zaers,Souissi Holy See P.O.Box 1303, Souissi Hungary 21 Bisoulad Jerrar,Soussi India 10 Michlifen Street,Agdal Indonesia 122 Ambassador Quarter Rte.Zaers Iran Route des Zaers,Bin Kasem Quarter Iraq 2 Oukaimdem St.Agdal Italy 2 Idriss Al Azhar St. Japan 39 Ahmed Balafrej Ave., Souissi

92 I Travel Arabia I July

765474

762237

755120

755410

764003

765425

764746

767003

755291

755291

765477

763201

672880

672187

754056

757519

755421

755420

769293

769709

731833

706821

762312

463925

689700

689750

709662

706851

638975

702270

772277

756213

750757

754123

671339

671269

757861

757859

659121

659118

754466

754572

706598

706882

631782

750078

Rabat (10 Km from City Centre) Casablanca (30 Km from Town Centre) Agadir (20 Km from Town Centre) Jordan Villa Al-Wafae, Soussi Korea Rep 41 Mehdi Benbaraka Blvd Kuwait 300 Iman Malik Street, Km 4 Lebanon 19 Fes Avenue, Rabat Libya 1 Chouaib Doukkali Street Oman 21 Hamza Street, Agdal, Rabat Pakistan 11 Azrou Street, Rabat Portugal 5 Thami Lamdouar Street Qatar 4 Tarik Ibn Ziad Blvd.

Russia Km 4, Route des Zaers Saudi Arabia 43 Place de L’unite Africaine Spain 3 El Fath St. Sudan 5 Ghomara Ave, Souissi Sweden P.O.Box 428 Switzerland P.O.Box 169,Berkame Sq. Syria 5 Rte., Zaers, Km 1, Souissi Tunisia 6 Fez Avenue Turkey 7 Fez Avenue UAE 11 Alaouines Avenue UK 17 Tour Hassan Boulevard USA 2 Marrakech Street Yemen 11 Abou-Hanifa Street, Agdal

Ports 751125

758722

Casablanca (main sea port)

751767

750189

Tangier (sea port for the North)

751775

753591

Government

760728

766667

707400

705200

673788

674567

661611

766742

756446

756445

Winter 08.030 to 12.00,14.30 to 18.00 Mon to Fri 08.00 to 13.00 Sat. Summer 09.00 to 14.00 Mon to Fri. 08.00 to 12.030 Sat. Ramadan 09.00 to 14.00 Mon to Sat. Businesses 08.00 to 12.30 and 16.00 to 19.00 Banks Winter 08.15 to 11.30 and 14.15 to 16.30 Mon to Fri.

765681 753509

Business Hours

Summer 09.00 to 15.00 Mon to Fri 753590

Electricity 110V.,127V or 220V/50 cycles AC in Rabbat,

730171

Casablanca and Tangier.

268000

707387

115/50 cycles AC in Marrakech,110V/50 cycles AC in Fez.

752863

752865

Visas

759303

758048

706974

705749

757521

757522

Visas required except by nationals of Andorra, Argentine, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Congo, Côte D’ivoire, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guinea, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Lichtenstein, Luxembourg, Mali, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Niger, Oman, Peru, Philippines, Porto Rico, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Korea, Spain,

730636

Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE, UK, US, Venezuela.

762605

704980

707070

742145

720905

704531

762265

765661

No Moroccan currency may be imported or exported.

674363

674769

Currency

Customs Regulations 400 grammes of Tobacco, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars are admitted free of duty.1 litre of wine or spirits.

Currency regulations 1 Moroccan Dirham (MD or DH)=100 centimes

OMAN OMAN

Embassies & Consulates

Mina Qaboos, Muscat (principal), Mina Raysut,

of the GCC.

(2000 estimate) 2053 million

Salalah (main port for Dhofar)

Capital

Business Hours

Customs regulations

Muscat

Government Offices

Main Cities

Currency regulations

Winter:7.30 to 14.30 Sat.To Thu.

No restrictions on the amount of currency taken

Muscat-Muttrah-Ruwi-Seeb,Salalah

Summer:7.30 to 14.30 Sat Top Wed.

into or out of Oman.

Temperature/Climate

Businesses

Currency

Summer: 35 C - 47 C, Very humid

08.30 to 13.30 and 16.00 to 18.00 Sat.to

1 Omani Riyal(RO)=1,000 Baizas

Winter: 20.7 C men minimum

Wed. 08.00 to 11.30 Thu.

Languages

Banks

Arabic (official), English (commercial).

08.00 to 12.00 Sat.to Wed.08.00 to 11.30

Algeria P.O.Box 216, Madinat Sultan Qabous

601698 Austria P.O.Box 2070, Ruwi 112 793135 Bahrain P.O.Box 66, P.C., 115 605912 Bangladesh P.O.Box 3959, Ruwi 112 707462 Canada P.O.Box 1275,Ruwi 112 China P.O.Box 315, Muscat 112 696782 Egypt P.O.Box 2252,Ruwi 112 600411 Finland P.O.Box 84, Muscat 113 702133 France P.O.Box 208, Muscat 115 604222 Germany P.O.Box 128, Ruwi 112 702482 India P.O.Box 1727, Ruwi 112 702960 Iran P.O.Box 3155, Ruwi 112 696944 Iraq P.O.Box 1848, Ruwi 112 604178 Italy P.O.Box 3727, Muscat 112 560968 Japan P.O.Box 3511, Ruwi 112 601028 Jordan P.O.Box 2281, Ruwi 112 786350 Korea Rep.of P.O.Box 2220, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115 691490 Kuwait P.O.Box 1798, Ruwi 112 699626 Lebanon P.O.Box 67, Ruwi 118 595844 Morocco P.O.Box 3125, Ruwi 112 696152 Netherland P.O.Box 3302, Rruwi 112 705410 Norway P.O.Box 89, Ruwi 112 703289 Pakistan P.O.Box 1302, Ruwi 112 603343 Qatar P.O.Box 802, Muscat 113 701802 Russia P.O.Box 80, Muscat 112 602893 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1411, Ruwi 112 601744 Sudan P.O.Box 3971, Ruwi 112 697875 Syria P.O.Box 85, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115 697904 Tunisia P.O.Box 220, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115 603486 Turkey P.O.Box 417, Muttrah,115 697050 UAE P.O.Box 551, Seeb 115 600302 UK P.O.Box 300, Muscat 113 693077 USA P.O.Box 202, Muscat 698989 Yemen

Airports

Thu.

P.O.Box 105, Madinat Sultan Qabous 115 600815

General Information General Information

Taxis,airport tax on departure,duty-free shop.

220/240 volts 50 cycles AC

Area

Salalah (domestic)

Visas

309.500 sq.Km

Population

Seeb (40 Km from City Centre).

Ports

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals

No alcohol.No Limit for Tobacco products.

694419 793669 605072

602322 603626 703826 604300 705690 797547 696888 605112

698720 619495

600972 695633 601114 799020 793892

794588 604189 603540 699065 603895 697778 697053 604182 693087 699189 605008

Electricity July I Travel Arabia I 93

QATAR

QATAR

Embassies & Consulates Algeria P.O.Box 2494 Bahrain Bangladesh P.O.Box 2080 Brunei China P.O.Box 17200 Egypt P.O.Box 2899 France P.O.Box 2669 Germany P.O.Box 3064 India P.O.Box 2788 Iran P.O.Box 1633 Iraq P.O.Box 1526 Italy P.O.Box 4188 Japan P.O.Box 2208 Jordan P.O.Box 2366 Korea Republic P.O.Box 3727 Kuwait P.O.Box 1177 Lebanon P.O.Box 2411 Libya P.O.Box 547 Mauritania P.O.Box 3132 Morocco P.O.Box 3242 Oman P.O.Box 3766 Pakistan P.O.Box 334 Russia P.O.Box 1540 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1255 Sudan P.O.Box 2999 Syria P.O.Box 1257 Tunisia P.O.Box 2707 Turkey P.O.Box 1977 UAE P.O.Box 3099 Uk P.O.Box 3 USA P.O.Box 2399 Yemen P.O.Box 3318

4831186 4839360

4836452 4831018

4671927 4884202

4671190 4873959

4884202

4873959

4832555

4832196

4832283

4832254

4876959

4876949

4672025

4670448

4835300

4831665

4672237

4673347

4667842

4664644

4831224

4832178

4832202

4832173

4832238

4838264

4832111

4832042

4477773

4478817

4667546

4660548

4836003

4836015

4831885

4833416

4670744

4670747

4832525

4832227

Area

Airport

4329117

4329118

11.437 sq.Km

Doha (8 Km from city centre). Taxis, No

Visas

4832030

4832720

Population

Duty- Free shop, no airport tax.

Visas are required for all visitors except nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and UAE.

4423007

4329118

Capital

Ports Ras Laffan (Gaz and ind.)

No objection certificate required from Qatari

4832409

4832139

Doha

Doha, Umm Said (oil and petrochemicals)

Minsitery of Foreign Affairs. Other businessmen,

4832649

Business Hours

if their visit is sponsored by a reputable Qatari,

4832645

Main Cities Doha, Rayan, Umm Said,

Government

may obtain a 72- hour visa at Doha Airport.

4835204

4835206

Al-Khor, Al-Wakrah, Ras Laffan

07.30 to 13.00 Sat To Thu.

Customs regulations

Temperature/Climate

Businesses

Alcohol is prohibited.No limit for Tobacco

Summer 36 to 40 C, in Doha very humid

07.30 to 12.00 and 15.30 to 18.00 Sat to

products.

especially mornings

Thu.

Currency Regulations

Winter 13 to 23 C in Doha, very humid, wide

Banks

None

diurnal range

07.30 to 11.30 Sat to Wed.

Currency

Languages

07.30 to 11.00 Thu.

1 Qatari Riyal (QR)= 100 dirhams

4885111 4421991

4438692

4884101

4884298

4432555

4429400

General Information

(2000 estimate) 700.000

Arabic (official), English ( commercial).

94 I Travel Arabia I July

Electricity

220/240 Volts 50 cycles AC.

SAUDI ARABIA

KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

General Information

General Information

Jeddah (24 Km from City Centre)

Ramadan 10.00 to 13.30

Area

Medina (12 Km from City Centre)

Electricity

2.240.000 sq.Km (approx)

Riyadh (35 Km from City Centre)

220 Volts and 110 Volts,60

Population

Taxis-no duty-free shops except at

cycles AC.

(2000 est.) 20 million

Jeddah-No airport taxes.

Capital

Ports

Visas

Riyadh

Jeddah(main port for Western

except GCC nationals.

Main Cities

province and the Kingdom’s

Applications have to be applies for

Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran,

principal port)

by sponsor in Saudi Arabia

Dammam, Al-Khobar, Qatif, Makkah,

King Abdel-Aziz, Dammam (main

To the Ministery of Foreign Affairs

Medina, Abha, Khamis Mushayat,

port for Eastern province)

who will inform Saudi Embassy

Taif

Jubail(industrial port for Eastern

On approval.Assistance from trade

Temperature/Climate

province)

associations and chambers of

Summer 38 to 45 C in Riyadh dry

Yanbu(industrial port for Western

commerce is advised.

diurnal range up to 20 C.

province)

Marriage certificate for travelers

35 to 42 C in Jeddha, very

Business Hours

accompanied by spouse required.

humid.35 to 45 C in Dammam,

Government

Customs regulations

very humid.

07.30 to 14.30 Sat to Wed.

No alcohol,600 cigarettes,100

Winter 8 to 30 C in Riyadh, night

Ramadan 09.30 tom 14.30

cigars or 500g tobacco.

frosts rain in March.19 to 33 C

Businesses

Currency regulations

in Jedah,humid 15 to 30 C in

Variable from business to business

No restrictions

Dammam, very humid

But generally,07.30 to 13.00 and

Languages

Currency

14.30 to 20.00 Sat to Thu.

1 Saudi Riyal(SR)=100 halala

Arabic (official), English

Banks

(commercial).

08.30 to 12.00 and 16.30 to

Airports

18.30 Sat to Wed.08.30to 12.00

Dammam (28 Km from City Centre)

Thu.

Visas are required for all visitors

Embassies & Consulates Algeria P.O.Box 94388, Riyadh 11693 Argentina P.O.Box 94369, Riyadh 11693 Australia P.O.Box 94400, Riyadh 11693 Austria P.O.Box 94373, Riyadh 11693 Bahrain P.O.Box 94371, Riyadh 11693 Bangladesh P.O.Box 94395, Riyadh 11693 Belgium P.O.Box 94396, Riyadh 11693 Brazil P.O.Box 94348, Riyadh 11693 Canada P.O.Box 94321, Riyadh 11693 Denmark P.O.Box 94398, Riyadh 11693 Egypt P.O.Box 94333, Riyadh 11693 Eritrea P.O.Box 94002, Riyadh 11693 France P.O.Box 94367, Riyadh 11693 Germany P.O.Box 9941, Riyadh 11693 Greece P.O.Box 94375, Riyadh 11693 India P.O.Box 94387, Riyadh 11693

4887171

4887616

4652600

4653057

4887788

4887973

4801217

4801526

4880044

4880208

4195300

4193555

4882888

4882033

4880018

4881075

4882288

4880137

4880101

4881366

4658425

4652800

4801726

4827537

4881255

4882882

4880700

4880660

801974

4801969

4884144

4884750

Iran P.O.Box 943394, Riyadh 11693 Ireland P.O.Box 94349, Riyadh 11693 Italy P.O.Box 94389, Riyadh 11693 Japan P.O.Box 4095, Riyadh 11491 Jordan P.O.Box 7455, Riyadh 11693 Kenya P.O.Box 94358, Riyadh 11693 Korea(Rep of) P.O.Box 94399, Riyadh 11693 Kuwait P.O.Box 2166, Riyadh 11451 Lebanon P.O.Box 94350, Riyadh 11693 Libya P.O.Box 94365, Riyadh 11693 Mexico P.O.Box 94391, Riyadh 11693 Morocco P.O.Box 94392, Riyadh 11693 Norway P.O.Box 94380, Riyadh 11693 Oman P.O.Box 94381, Riyadh 11693 Pakistan P.O.Box 6891, Riyadh 11452 Philippines P.O.Box 94315, Riyadh 11693

4881916

4888890

4882300

4880927

4881212

4886590

4881100

4880189

4880039

4880072

4882484

4882629

4882211

4881317

4883500

488368

4197000

4192767

4544511

4567513

4828218

4828379

4826382

4827016

4881904

4880854

4823120

4823738

4887272

4887953

4880835

4883945

Portugal P.O.Box 94328, Riyadh 11693 Qatar P.O.Box 94353, Riyadh 11461 Singapore P.O.Box 94378, Riyadh 11693 Spain P.O.Box 94347, Riyadh 11693 Sudan P.O.Box 94337, Riyadh 11693 Sweden P.O.Box 94382, Riyadh 11693 Switzerland P.O.Box 9265, Riyadh 11413 Syria P.O.Box 94323, Riyadh 11693 Thailand P.O.Box 94359, Riyadh 11693 Tunisia P.O.Box 94368, Riyadh 11693 Turkey P.O.Box 94390, Riyadh 11693 UAE P.O.Box 94385, Riyadh 11693 UK P.O.Box 94351, Riyadh 11693 USA P.O.Box 94309, Riyadh 11693 Yemen P.O.Box 94356, Riyadh 11693

4644688

4044419

4825544

4825694

4657007

4652224

4880606

4880400

4887728

4887729

4883100

4880604

4881291

4880632

4887481

4826196

4880300

4881179

4887900

4887641

4887721

4887823

4826803

4827504

4880077

4882373

4883800

4883278

4826764

4881757

July I Travel Arabia I 95

SUDAN

SUDAN

General Information

Area

Languages

to Thu

2,505,813 sq.Km

Arabic (official), English (commercial)

Banks

Population

Airport

08.30 to 12.00 Sat to Thu.

(2000 estimate) 35.5 million

Khartoum (4Km from city centre).

Electricity

Capital

Coaches/taxis, Duty-free shops,airport tax on

240 volts,single phase AC

Khartoum

departure.

Visas

Main Cities

Port

Visas are reqiured for all visitors

Khartoum, Oumdurman, Khartoum North, Port

Port Sudan

Customs Regulations

Sudan, Wadi Medani

Business Hours

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 1 lb tobacco

Government Offices

Currency Regulations

Summer : 26 to 45 C, in Khartoum,sandstor

Khartoum :08.00 to 14.00 Sat to Thu.

Import or export of Sudanese currency is illegal

ms,humid,

Other centres :08.30 to 14.00(with Breakfast

Currency

Rain in August and September,hotter and more

interval)

1 Sudanese Dinar(SD)=100 piastres=1,000

humid in South.

Sat to Thu.

millimes

Winter : 15 to 32 C in Khartoum, dry, wide

Businesses

diurnal range, Chilly nights.

08.30 to 13.30 and 17.00 to 20.00 Sat.

Temperature/Climate

96 I Travel Arabia I July

Embassies & Consulates Algeria P.O.Box 80 Austria P.O.Box 1860 Belgium P.O.Box 969,St.33,House 15 China P.O.Box 1425 Czech Republic P.O.Box 1047 Denmark P.O.Box 2758 Egypt P.O.Box 1126 France P.O.Box 377, St.3, Plot 29 Germany P.O.Box 970 Holy See P.O.Box 623 India P.O.Box 707, 61 Africa Rd. Iran House No.8, square 2, Mogran Iraq Burri, Garden City Italy P.O.Box St.39 Khartoum 2 Japan P.O.Box 1649, St.43, House 67 Jordan 25 Sreet Number 7 Kenya P.O.Box 8242 Korea(Rep of) P.O.Box 322 Kuwait P.O.Box 1457 Lebanon P.O.Box 1407 Libya P.O.Box 2091 Morocco P.O.Box 2042 Netherlands St.47 House 76 Oman P.O.Box 2839 Pakistan P.O.Box 1178 Qatar P.O.Box 223 Romania P.O.Box 1494 Russia P.O.Box 1161 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 258 Spain P.O.Box 2621 Sweden (Consulate)P.O.Box 2206 Switzerland P.O.Box 1707 Syria P.O.Box 1139 Tunisia P.O.Box 3533 Turkey St.2, House 31 UAE P.O.Box 1225 UK P.O.Box 801 USA P.O.Box 699 Yemen P.O.Box 1010 Yugoslavia P.O.Box 1180

451084 77170 489229

4899230

272730

271138

43448 80489 72836 471082

465928

77990 74692 451031

452266

81490

78668

271863 451614

451217

75875

77668

451164

451038

440386

452264

451136 81525

81142

45008 2235358 451603

451053

471012

471204

451605

451027

222000 451620

451036

338114

761113

451042 452583

451069

45072 71913 451010

452804

451152

451066

75906 471197

472542

451100 777105

776457

74700 451623 41252

451020

General Information General Information

Area 185,180 sq.Km

Population (2000 estimate)17.76 million

Capital Damascus

Main Cities Damascus, Aleppo, Homos, Latakia, Hama

Temperature/Climate Summer : 30 to 42 C, in Damascus, occasionally humid.

Winter : 0 to 20 C in Damascus, occasional snowfalls

Languages Arabic (official), French (widely understood in business and government) English (Sometimes used in Business)

Airport Damascus (32 Km from citycentre).

Coaches/taxis, duty-free shop, airport tax on departure.

Ports Latakia (principal), Tartous, Banias (oil).

Business Hours Government 08.00 to 14.00 Sat to Thu. Ramadan :08.00 to 13.oo Businesses Winter :09.00 to 14.00 and 16.00 to 19.00 Sat to Thu, Summer (May to October) :08.30 to 13.30 and 17.00 to 20.00 Sat to Thu. Banks 08.00 to 14.00 Sat to Thu.

Electricity 220 volts 50 cycles AC in Damascus.

115/220 volts in Aleppo

Visas Visas are required by all except nationals of Algeria, Bahrain, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, PLO Gvt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Tinisia, United Arab Emirates And Yemen.

Appilications should be accompanied by supporting letter from employers.

Transit (for Visits up to 3 days), entry (for visits up to 2 weeks)and visit(for re-entry from neighbouring countries) visas are available.

Customs Regulations 200 cigarettes or 25 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco and 1 bottle of wine and one bottle of spirits.

Currency regulations Up to £Syr 100 in local currency may be brought into or out of the country.Currency declarations are necessary for more than US$5000 in local or foreign curency.Visitors are advised to keep adequate amounts of Bank notes on hand since it is sometimes difficult to cash travelers checques

Currency 1Syrian pound (£Syr)=100 piaster or qirsh.

SYRIA

SYRIA

Embassies & Consulates Algeria Rawdah Street, Nass Bldg Argentina P.O.Box 116 Armenia Malekie-Ibrahim Hanano St. Austria P.O.Box 5634 Belgium 76 Ata Ayoubi Street Brazil P.O.Box 2219 Canada P.O.Box 3384 Cyprus P.O.Box 9269 Denmark P.O.Box 2244 France P.O.Box 769, Ata Al Ayoubi St. Germany P.O.Box 2237 Greece P.O.Box 30319, Mezzeh Holy See P.O.Box 2271, 82 Masr Street Hungary P.O.Box 2271, 102 al Fursani St. India P.O.Box 685 Indonesia 17 Assalam St., Bldg 10 Iran P.O.Box 2691 Italy 82 Al Mansour Ave Japan Al Mindi Bin Baraka St. Jordan

3334167

332732

3732992

3711757

3327691

3329232

3338098

330426

6116851

6114000

6130812

6130814

3331008

3337928

3327992 3323800

332812

2233009

2233035

3337966

3327550

3337966

6667917

3719580

3713294

6119630

6119632

6117675

6110997

3332621

3320325

3339181

3339920

Abu Roummaneh Street Kuwait Ibrahim Hanano Street Netherland P.O.Box 702 Pakistan P.O.Box 9284, Al Farabi St. Poland P.O.Box 501, M.Ben Baraka St. Qatar P.O.Box 4188 Romania 8 Ibrahim Hanano St. Russia Omar Ben Khattab St Saudi Arabia Al-Jala’ Avenue Slovakia P.O.Box 33115 Spain 81 Al-Jala’ Avenue Sudan Al-Jala’ Street Sweden P.O.Box 4266 Switzerland Al-Mahdi Ben Baraka St. Tunisia P.O.Box 4114 Turkey P.O.Box 3738 UAE 62 Rawda Street/Abu Rummana St. UK P.O.Box 37, Malki USA P.O.Box 29, No.2 Al Mansour St.

3334642

3336871

3339369

6662391

3339369

3330101 3336717 3327570

3327572

4423155

6669043

6616714

3332126 3327261

3327749

3715474

3321137

6660356 3331411

3339243

3333038 3739241

3731600

3332184

3319678

July I Travel Arabia I 97

Embassies & Consulates Algeria 18 Niger Street Argentina 10 H.Hassan Street Austria 16 Ibn Hamdis St., Menzah Bahrain 72 Bin Abi Soufiane, Menzah Belgium 47 1st January St. Belvedere Brazil 37 Africa Avenue, Menzah Canada 3 Senegal Street, Belevedere China 22 Dr. Burnett St., Mutuelleville Czech Republic P.O.Box 53, 1002 Tunis Denmark 5 Mauritania Street, Belevedere Egypt Ave.Med V, Mont Plaisir, Belvedere Finland 61 H.Bourghiba Ave., Carthage France Independence square Germany 1 al Hamra st., Mutuelleville Greece 9 Imp.Atlas, Belvedere Hungary 12 Achtart St., Al-Menzah India 4 Didon Square, Notre Dame Iraq 10 Ben Ashour Ave. Menzah Iran 10 Doctor Burnett St., Mutuelleville Italy 37 Jamal Abdel Nassr St. Japan 9 Apollo St. Mahrajenne Jordan 10 Chankatti st., Mahrajene Korea Rep

783166

788804

231222

750058

751091

767824

231811

766549

781655

792797

232538

750367

796577

792371

792107

792631

280486

793228

792600

790797

792233

794389

TUNISIA TUNISIA

General Information

Area

Government Offices

Kuwait, Liberia, Leichtenstein, Malaysia, Mali,

164,418 sq.Km

Winter :08.00 to 13.00 and 15.00 to 17.45

Malta, Mauritania, Mauritus, Monaco, Montserrat,

Population

Mon.to Thu.08.30 to 13.00 Fri.and Sat.

Morocco, Nevis, Niger, Norway, Pitcairn Is.,

(2000 estimate) 9.65 million

Summer:07.00 to 13.00 Mon.to Sat.

Porugal, Romania, St.Helens, St.Kittis, San

Capital

Businesses

Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Spain, Sweden,

Tunis

Winter:08.300 to 12.30 and 14.00 to 16.00

Switzerland, Turkey, Turks,& Caicos Is., UAE, UK,

Main Cities

Mon to Fri.

USA, Venuatu, Virgin Is,(Britsih) and Yugoslavia.

Tunis, Sfax, Ariana, Bizerte, Djerba, Sousse

Summer:07.30 to 13.00 Mon to Sat.

Customs Regulations 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 400g tobacco

721700

721670

Temperature/Climate

Banks

358000

358001

Winter:13∞ with frequent rain.

Winter:08.00 to 11.00 and 14.00 to 16.00

and 1 litre of alcohol are admitted free of duty.

786455

788242

Summer: 35∞C,hot and dry

Mon to Fri.

Currency regulations

Summer:07.00 to 13.00 Mon. to Sat.

The import or export of Tunisian currency is

288411

789518

Languages Arabic (official), French (commercial),

Electricity

prohibited.O departure all Tunisian currency must

Berber (in rural areas).

Domestic 220V and 110V.

be converted into foreign currency on production

Airports

Industrial 220V 50 cycles AC

of exchange slips from Tunisian banks. This can

Tunis (8 Km from Tunis)

Visas

be done at the Airport .The amount of excess

Skanes (8 Km west of Monasrtir)

Visas are required by all except nationals of

currency exchanged back must not exceed 30

Melita (6 Km west of Djerba)

Angiulla, Antigua, Austria, Bahrain, Barbados,

per cent of foreign currency originally exchanged

Tozeur (south oasis area)

Belize, Bermuda, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada,

or 100 dinars, whichever is the greater.

Ports

Cayman Is, Chile, Cuba, Denmark, Egypt, Eire,

Currency

Tunis (main port), Zarzis, Sfax,

Falkand Is, Fuji, Finland, France, Germany,

1 Tunisian Dinar(TD)=1,000 millimes(m)

Sousse, Bizerta

Ghana, Gibraltar, Greece, Giunea, Hong Kong,

Business Hours

Iceland, Italy, Ivory coast, Japan, Korea(South),

780544

781264

787819

783394

890347

799949

791015

783177

321811

324155

791251

786625

780875

784661

16 Caracalla St., Notre Dame Kuwait 32 Mansoura St., Ariana Libya 48 Bis., Rue du 1er Jiun, Belvedere Morocco 39 Rue du 1er Jiun, Belvedere Netherlands 6/7/8/ Mercen St.Mahrajene Pakistan 7 Ali Bin Abi Talib Street, Al-Menzah Portugal 2 Sufetula St., Belvedere Romania 18 Africa Avenue, Al- Menzah Russia Bergamate St., ManarII Saudi Arabia 16 Jugurtha Ave., Belvedere Spain 22 Conseil Avenue, Cite jardin Sudan 30 Afrique Avenue Sweden Berges Lac, Mhiri Switzerland 10 Echenkiti st., Mutuelleville Syria 119 A. Rebai St., Manar II Turkey 30 Ave. Africa UAE 9 Ashtart St., Belvedere UK 141 Liberty Ave., Belvedere USA 144 Liberty Avenue, Belvedere Yemen 9 A.Ibn Abi Taleb St., Menzah

98 I Travel Arabia I July

893060

791923

754811

767669

781913

795338

782775

795338

799442

785557

234366

752477

893981

791008

766926

767695

882446

882478

781722

783235

782217

786267

860580

860810

783997

788796

888018

887989

750668

767045

783522

783507

793322

792644

782566

789719

237933

UAE

UAE

Embassies & Consulates

Algeria P.O.Box 3070, Abu Dhabi Argentina P.O.Box 3325, Abu Dhabi Australia P.O.Box 58010, Dubai Austria P.O.Box 35539, Abu Dhabi Bahrain P.O.Box 3367, Abu Dhabi Bangladesh P.O.Box 2504, Abu Dhabi Belgium P.O.Box 3686, Abu Dhabi Brazil P.O.Box 3027, Abu Dhabi Britain P.O.Box 248, Abu Dhabi Canada P.O.Box 6970, Abu Dhabi China P.O.Box 2741, Abu Dhabi Czech Republic P.O.Box 27009, Abu Dhabi Egypt P.O.Box 4026, Abu Dhabi Finland P.O.Box 3634, Abu Dhabi France P.O.Box 4014, Abu Dhabi Germany P.O.Box 2591, Abu Dhabi Greece P.O.Box 5483, Abu Dhabi Hungary P.O.Box 44450, Abu Dhabi India P.O.Box 409, Abu Dhabi Iran P.O.Box 4080 Italy P.O.Box 46752, Abu Dhabi Japan P.O.Box 2430, Abu Dhabi Jordan P.O.Box 4024, Abu Dhabi Kenya P.O.Box 3854, Abu Dhabi Korea Rep P.O.Box 3270, Abu Dhabi Kuwait P.O.Box 926, Abu Dhabi Lebanon P.O.Box 4023, Abu Dhabi Libya P.O.Box 5739, Abu Dhabi Malaysia P.O.Box 3887, Abu Dhabi Mauritania P.O.Box 2714, Abu Dhabi Morocco P.O.Box 4066 Netherlands P.O.Box 46560

4448949

4447068

4436838

4431392

3217444

3212677

4766611

6715551

6657500

6674141

Area

Dubai International (4 Km east of city),

to Thu

4465100

4464733

90,559 sq.Kms

duty-free shop

Electricity

(including Offshore islands)

Fujairah Int’l, Duty-free shop

Abu Dhabi 220/240 volts, 50 cycles AC,

6319449

6319353

Population

Ras Al Khaimah International (20 Km south of

Northern Emirates

(2006 est.)4.10 m

Town), duty-free shop

220/380 volts, 50 cycles AC.

Capital

Sharjah International (10 Km southeast of

Visas

Abu Dhabi

Sharjah town and 25 Km north of Dubai Town),

Visas are required by all except GCC nationals.

Main Cities

duty-free shop

UK Citizens will be granted 30-day visa at

Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah,Ras Al-Khaimah

Ports

International Aiports.Other Will be required to

Ajman, Fujairah, Umm Al-Qaiwan

Jebel Dhanna/Ruwais Abu Dhabi

obtain visas through sponsorship.

Temperature/Climate

Mina Zayed ( Abu Dhabi town, 20% UAE

Customs Regulations

Summer:35to 40C peaks up to 48C along Gulf

tonnage)

200 cigarettes or one half pound of

Coast,very humid in Dubai, more temperate

Mina Jebel Ali (Dubai)

Tobacco(Abu Dhabi), 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars

along eastern(Gulf of Oman)coast. Winter : 20C,

Port Rashid(Dubai Town), 50% UAE tonnage

or 500 gm tobacco(Dubai) are allowed duty-

very dry in Abu Dhabi, Wet in Ras El Khaimah

Ajman, Fujeirah

free.However locally retailed tobacco products are as cheap as duty-free goods.

6320606

6327727

6101100

6101518

6940300

6946399

4434276

4436835

6782800

6795716

4445566

4449878

6328927

6325063

General Information

4435100

4434158

Languages

Mina Saqr (Ras Al Khaima) Khorfakan (Sharjah/

6446693

6444942

Arabic (official), English ( widely spoken in

East coast), container terminal.

Alcohol, drugs, pearls and firearms are

4492550

4493119

Business and government)

Mina Khalid (Sharjah Town), 20% UAE tonnage

prohibited

Business Hours

Currency regulations

4470100

6667877

Airports Abu Dhabi International (19 Km southeast of

Government Offices

None

City), duty-free shop

08.00 to 15.00 Sat. To Wed. And 08.00 to

Currency

Abu Dhabi New International Airport (Nadia, 35

12.00 Thu.

1 UAE Dirham(Dh)=100 fils

Km form city centre), duty-free shop

Businesses

Al Ain International,Duty-free shop

08.00 to 15.00 and 16.00 to 20.00 Sat.

4492700

4444685

4447618

4448714

4435622

4434337

4435696

4434219

4447100

4449157

6666300

6652827

4435337

4435348

4477146

4477675

4492100

4493500

4450030

4450033

4482775

4482779

4462724

4465772

4433963

4433917

6321920

6313158

Norway P.O.Box 47270 Oman P.O.Box 2517 Pakistan P.O.Box 846 Palestine P.O.Box 841 Philippines P.O.Box 3215 Qatar P.O.Box 3503 Romania P.O.Box 70416 Russia P.O.Box 8211 Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 4057 Spain P.O.Box 46474

6211221

6213313

4463333

4464633

4447800

4447172

4434048

4434363

6415922

6412559

4493300

4493311

4459919

4461143

6721797

6788731

4445700

4448491

6269544

6274978

Sudan P.O.Box4027 Switzerland P.O.Box 46116 Syria P.O.Box 4011 Thai P.O.Box 47466 Tunisia P.O.Box 4166 Turkey P.O.Box 3204 UK P.O.Box 248 USA P.O.Box 4009 Yemen P.O.Box 2095

4446699

4490530

6274636

6269627

4448768

4449387

6421772

6421773

6811331

6812707

4453330

4452522

6326600

6318138

4142200

4142469

4448457

4443691

July I Travel Arabia I 99

YEMEN

YEMEN

Embassies & Consulates

General Information Area

Ports

527.970 sq.Km

Hodeida(principal), Aden, Mokha, Saleef(relief port for Hodeida)

Population

Business Hours

(2000 estimate)17.5 million

Government

Capital

08.00 to 13.00 Sat.to Thu.

Sanaa(political), Aden(economic)

Businesses

Main Cities

08.00 to 13.00 and 16.00 to 19.00 Sat.to Thu.

Sanaa, Aden, Hoddeida, Taiz, Ibb, Dhamar, Hajjah

Banks

Temperature/Climate

08.00 to 12.00 Sat.to Wed. and 08.00 to 11.30 Thu.

Summer:35 to 40 C,peaks up to 47 C in Hodeida,Very humid, rainfall

Electricity

cooler and drier in Sanaa.

220 volts, 50 cycles AC

Winter: 26 C in Hodeidah,Humid, much cooler , with occasional frosts,in

Visas

Sanaa.

Visas are required for all visitors.One application form and 2 photographs

Summer:average 35 C in Aden, very humid,hotter but wideDiurnal range

must be presented with employer’s supporting letter.

and drier inland.

Processing of applications takes 3 to 6 days.

Winter: average 28 C in Aden, humid, much cooler inland.

Visitors must register within 5 days to obtain an exit visa which can

Languages

sometimes also be arranged by hotels.

Arabic (official), English (commercial)

Airports

Customs regulations 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or _ lb tobacco and 1 qt wine are admitted

Al-Rahaba(10 Km north of Sanaa).

duty-free.

Hodeida

Currency regulations

(6 Km Southeast of city)

Because the exchange of riyals is difficult abroad, visitors exchange all local

Al-Janad

currency before departure.

(4 Km northeast of Taiz)

Currency

Khormasakar International

1 Yemeni Riyal(YR)=100 fils

(10 Km from Aden).

No duty-free shop.Sanaa

100 I Travel Arabia I July

Algeria P.O.Box 509, 67 Amman ST. Belgium P.O.Box 2616 Canada P.O.Box 340 China Al Zubeiri St Czech Republic P.O.Box 2501, Safia Janubia Denmark P.OBox 5302,Taiz Egypt Jamal Abdul Naser St. France P.O.Box 1286, Al Bounia Germany P.O.Box 41 India 12 Jiboti Street Indonesia Hadda Area, house 16 Iran P.O.Box 1437, Hadda Street Iraq P.O.Box 498 Italy P.O.Box 1152 Japan P.O.Box 817, street 38 house2

Jordan P.O.Box 2152 Korea(PDR) P.O.Box 1209, Al Hasaba Kuwait P.O.Box 17036 Lebanon P.O.Box 2283 Morocco P.O.Box 10236,Westy Safia Oman P.O.Box 105 Pakistan P.O.Box 2848 Poland P.O.Box 16168 Romania P.O.Box 2169 Russia P.O.Box 1087,26 sep.street Saudi Arabia P.O.Box 1184 Sudan P.O.Box 2561 Syria P.O.Box 494, Hadda Road Tunisia P.O.Box 2561,Diplomatic Area Turkey P.O.Box 18371, Al Safia UAE P.O.Box2250 UK P.O.Box 1287 USA P.O.Box 22347

* Whilst every effort is made to provide totally accurate information, no responsibility is taken for inaccuracies and omissions contained herein.

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May I Travel Arabia I 101