Travel Arabia-August 2011

Ramadan Kareem

International Media Production Zone

August 2011, Volume 7, Issue 78

g Pot: n i t l e M uhour Iftar, S offers l specia

Travellers’ Tips

Oman: A cultural paradise A Swiss holiday

Odyssey

Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort Getaways

Fridays Boracay

MYSTIFYING MOSQUES AND MINARETS

ARABIAN EXPERIENCE

Exciting soukS AND TREASURE TROVES

Hua Hin: A favourite summer retreat for wealthy Thais and royalty

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Editor’s Note Ramadan Kareem.

In this issue is a listing of Iftar and Suhour promotional packages from hotels and other establishments that we have put together to make up the Melting Pot section. For easier reading, the directory has been grouped into dining, spa, rooms and special packages.

Also in this issue is the launch of a new section called Arabian Experience, where we feature the culture and traditions of the Arab world to which we begin with a spread on mosques and souks—the mystifying places of worship, and exciting marketplaces, actually, treasure troves of Arabia’s rich history. Indeed, a souk, as Forrest Gump would say, “is like a box of chocolate…you never know what you gonna get.”

Likewise in this issue is the launch of Travellers’ Tips—materials and information about various destinations from holidaymakers themselves and travel agencies. We thought it might interest you to have an idea about how it is to go to Switzerland, for instance.

Hua Hin, renowned as the King of Thailand’s summer palace, won our vote as this edition’s entry for the Outside Arabia section. Find out why.

Odyssey features another Maldives getaway—the Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort; while Taste Travel has four entries, among them Desert Palm Retreat’s award-winning Rare Restaurant, Park Regis Hotel’s Kris Restaurant, and Ember Grill in Burj Downtown.

Jojo Dass Editor

Another new section is Getaways which debuted with a piece about a resort in Boracay Island in Central Philippines popular for breathtaking sunsets, white beaches and crystal-clear water.

The Great Mosque of Córdoba (La Mezquita) was founded 785 CE. It was added to and expanded over the next two hundred years to make it the third largest structure in the Islamic world.

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36

64

Hua Hin-the Retreat of Kings

54

All here!

Contents 10

Ramadan special offers including Eid, Iftar, Suhour and summer packages for dining, spa treatments, golf and a lot more!

August 2011 20 35

55

60

50 EDITOR’S NOTE WE HEAR YOU! LET’S DO IT COVER STORY

P.02 P.06 P.08 P.10

TRAVELLERS’ TIPS WHISTLE STOP OUTSIDE ARABIA ODYSSEY

P.26 P.30 P.36 P.40

TASTE TRAVEL FEATURES MELTING POT AROUNDTOWN

P.44 P.50 P.54 P.62

Ramadan Kareem August 2011, Volume 7, Issue 78

International Media Production Zone

41

on the cover Souks: A collage of

Arabia’s interesting and colourful past.

g Pot: Meltin hour Iftar, Su offers special

Travellers’ Tips

Oman: A cultural paradise A Swiss holiday

Odyssey

Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort Getaways

Fridays Boracay

MYSTIFYING MOSQUES AND MINARETS

ARABIAN EXPERIENCE

ExcItIng SoukS AnD tREASuRE tRoVES

Hua Hin: A favourite summer retreat for wealthy Thais and royalty

4 I Travel Arabia

Experience this Ramadan the true Arabian hospitality in the Fountain restaurant for only AED 110* as well as the taste of India in Chutneys restaurant for only AED 85*.

Like us on Facebook (Moevenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai) and get 20% discount on the Iftar for a maximum booking of 8 persons.

That's not all! Special Iftar parties can be arranged in the newly renovated Oud Metha Ballroom. * The prices are inclusive of taxes and service charges.

.

www.moevenpick-hotels.com

Truly Ramadan Delights.

We Hear You..

THIS MONTH READERS TAKE A BREAK, RELAX AND SPEAK OUT

More reader-friendly

www.travel-arabia.com Publisher KGI

Dear Editor Thanks for coming up with a more reader-friendly Melting Pot. Separating room promotional packages from dining offers, spa treatments and other entries sure make for easier reading.

I wish other travel magazines would do so, too.

Sunil Krishna Karama, Dubai

Address 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 Media House Indigo

Dear Mr. Krishna Thanks. It takes more time but is also certainly rewarding knowing that our readers are spared the nitty-gritty of figuring things out by themselves.

Editor

General Manager Shaza Sharaffdeen Editor Jojo Dass editor@travel-arabia.com Contributors Elaine Nettleton Caroline Tapken Wael Bittar Julian Redman Maryam Jabbar Photographer Maher El Zein Creative Manager Karen Haroon Designer Najeeb Hamza Sales & Marketing Manager Syed Muhammad Arif arif@kalimatgroup.com Sales & Marketing Executive Crisna De Guzman crisna@kalimatgroup.com Circulation Manager Ihab Abdallah 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 KGI 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.

All rights reserved. © 2011 KGI

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Inspiring

Covered Dear Editor Your special June-July edition’s cover story on where to go for summer breaks indeed got everything covered.

From water parks to hotel room discounts, Travel Arabia pretty much thought of everything.

Congratulations.

Sarah Prisham Sharjah Dear Ms. Prisham Always happy to hear from a happy reader. Thanks.

Editor

Contributors…need just one more?

Dear Editor We have noticed that Travel Arabia has lately been having more and more contributors and sections about travel experiences written by holidaymakers themselves—Whistle Stop, and One Day One Night among them.

I’d love to share my travel experiences, too. How do I start?

Aisha Sayed Abu Dhabi Dear Ms. Aisha

Easy. Just e-mail them to me at dass@kalimatgroup. com. Looking forward to your piece.

Editor

Dear Editor Your June-July edition’s feature about Sheraton Deira Hotel Executive Sous Chef Seosh Chandran in the Taste Travel section was an inspiring piece.

Chef Seosh has come a long way from re-heating food at home when he was a boy to becoming a big hotel’s “Kitchen King.”

I am planning to pursue a career in gastronomy and will always remember the good chef.

Nathan Burns Doha, Qatar Dear Mr. Burns.

Chef Seosh’s story is indeed a piece.

Learn more from him at the hotel. He’s a busy man, but always has time to sit down and share more about his experience and plans.

Editor

Let’s Do It this

Summer

Here is a selection of a few events around the region. Let us know your feedback.

Contemporary Arab Art Exhibition Aug. 2, 2011 – Sept. 12, 2011 7pm – 1am Al Markhiya Gallery Doha, Qatar

More than 15 artists will be exhibited including Qataris Salman Al Malik and Amal Al-Athim, as well as Egyptian Adil El Siwi, Iraqi Karim Saifou and Sudani Islam Kamil. Entry is free. Inquiries: 4442-8007 or 6600-8750. info@almarkhiyagallery. com

Ehdeniyat Festivals Lebanon

A yearly festival organized by Al Midan-NGO headed by Mrs. Rima Sleiman Frangieh during the winter and during the summer. The festival is organized in collaboration with the relevant ministries (Ministry of Education, Ministry of Tourism…) and the relevant associations. The festival includes various programs such as environmental activities, cinematographic activities, handicrafts and astrologic

activities. Inquiries: +961 1 209309 / +961 6 550700, www.ehdeniyat.com

Ramadan Fair 2011 Aug. 11 – 31, 2011 Expo Centre Sharjah Inquiries: +971 6 577 0000 Email: infor@ expo-centre.ae

For nearly a month, Expo Centre Sharjah becomes a massive shopping and entertainment venue. This also is the time when tourists from neighboring countries in the region descend on Sharjah, attracted by the hugely popular Ramadan Festival and the fact that it is the designated Capital of the Islamic Culture.

Ramadan & Eid Festival-Al Ain Aug. 9, 2011 Al Ayn Exhibition Centre Abu Dhabi

Ramadan & Eid Exhibition Kuwait International Fairs Ground 6th Ring Road Motor-Highway Mishref

Kuwait Aug. 27, 2011

Several trade fair presentations at the same time and venue under one roof result in a unique range of products in the fields of gifts, home accessories, floristry supplies, handicraft supplies, arts and crafts, paper, stationery and office equipment, souvenirs and toys, as well as spring and Easter goods. It is an early event where significant orders are placed by a large number of Austrian and international participants. Ramadan & Eid Exhibition open for all kind of consumer goods.

Rockin’ the Woods (The Lebanese Woodstock) Aug. 27 – 29, 2011 Chbanieh (next to Bhamdoun)

For the first time in Lebanon 30 bands will be participating in this camping festival during the 3 days, merging Rock, Reggae, Alternative, Psychedelic, Trip Hop, Experimental, Metal and Extreme.

Tickets: US$40 for 3 days + access to camping area (sleeping there)

US$20 for 1 day to attend 1 day only and watch 10 bands. Inquiries: +961 3 023097 and Info@RockinTheWoods.com.

Salalah Tourism Festival July 15, 2011 – Aug. 31, 2011 Lake Amphitheatre, Salalah, Oman

To celebrate its rich heritage, every summer during the Khareef (monsoon) season, the Sultanate organises the Salalah Tourism Festival in Salalah. This six-week festival encompasses folk music, traditional games, art shows, poetry, children’s contests, seminars, awareness campaigns, sports and more. The majority of the celebrations take place at the Lake Amphitheatre, while other performances and activities are held at a number of locations nearby. Visit website for more details @ http://www.salalahfestival.com/ A typical scene during the Salalah Festival in Oman.

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Cover Story

The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco

Arabian experience

10 Travel Arabia

Explore kingdoms of

mosques and souks

Discover why there’s no place like this elsewhere

Travel Arabia 11

The Arabian uniqueness is in its mystifying places of worship or masjids.

The Hassan II Mosque

The world’s fifth largest

The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco, is the largest mosque in the country and the fifth largest mosque in the world after the Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque) of Mecca and the AlMasjid al-Nabawi (Prophet’s Mosque) in Medina.

It stands on a promontory looking out to the Atlantic, and has room for 25,000 worshippers. A further 80,000 can be accommodated in the mosque’s adjoining grounds. Its minaret is the world’s tallest at 210 m (689 ft).

Built on reclaimed land, almost half of the surface of the mosque lies over the Atlantic water. This was inspired by the verse of the Qur’an that states “The throne of Allah was built on water.” Part of the floor is glass, and overlooks the sea. Spotlights shine at night from the top of the minaret toward Mecca. These features were specifically requested by King Hassan II, who declared, “I want to build this mosque on the water, because

King Abdullah I Mosque A memorial to the king

The King Abdullah I Mosque, popularly the King Abdullah Mosque) in Amman, Jordan, was built between 1982 and 1986 with a capacity of 3,000. It is a memorial to the late King Hussein’s grandfather, His majesty as-Sayyid Abdullah I, King of Jordan.

The mosque is an example of modern Islamic architecture. Islam is Jordan’s state religion and about nine-tenths of the population are Sunni Muslims. Communal prayer is important in the Islamic religion, making the mosques a necessary part of worship.

On April 11, 2006, the structure was retired as Jordan’s national mosque, in favor of the newly built King Hussein Ben Talal Mosque. Located inside the mosque is the Islamic Museum, with a collection of pottery and photographs of His Majesty King Abdullah I.

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God’s throne is on the water. Therefore, the faithful who go there to pray, to praise the Creator on firm soil, can contemplate God’s sky and ocean.”

It also includes a number of modern touches. It was built to withstand earthquakes and has a heated floor, electric doors, and a sliding roof.

The mosque displays strong Moorish influence and the architecture of the building is similar to that of the Alhambra and the Great Mosque of Cordoba in Spain. This and the old Tin Mal Mosque are the only mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims.

Work on the mosque was commenced on 12 July 1986, and was intended to be completed for the 60th birthday of the former Moroccan king, Hassan II, in 1989. However, the building was not inaugurated until 30 August 1993. It took 2,500 construction workers and 10,000 artists and craftsman to build the mosque.

The Great Mosque of Cรณrdoba Cรณrdoba was the capital of the Spanish Muslim dynasty of the Ummayads (7561031). The Great Mosque of Cรณrdoba (La Mezquita) was founded 785 CE. It was added to and expanded over the next two hundred years to make it the third largest structure in the Islamic world.

The prayer hall (23,400 square meters) is filled with almost 500 hundred slender columns and superimposed striped arches; a forest sprouting from the marble floor.

Previously the site had been occupied by a Christian church dedicated to Saint Vincent that had been built by the Visigoths around 500 CE. Before that, when Cรณrdoba was a provincial capital in the Roman Empire, the site was occupied by a temple dedicated to Janus, the double-headed god of doorways and gates.

When Cรณrdoba was captured by the Christian Spanish king of Castile, Ferdinand III, in the 13th century, the mosque reverted to a Christian sanctuary. Then in 1523, the local clergy, with the support of Emperor Charles V, built a cathedral in the middle of the mosque.

Travel Arabia 13

Al Farooq Omar Ibn Al Khattab Mosque Dubai’s newest and biggest The biggest and newest mosque of Dubai, Al Farooq Omar Ibn Al Khattab

Mosque and Islamic Center, opened in Al Safa just before Ramadan on July 29, 2011, marked by the Friday Prayer.

The whole complex is spanned over 8,700 square meters and was inspired by the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (or Blue Mosque) in Istanbul.

The mosque itself was built on 4,200 square meters and can accommodate 2,000 worshipers. It was named after Umar Bin Al Khattab, the second Caliph after Abu Bakr.

Dubai’s Blue Mosque has a library with a collection of some 4,000 Islamic and other religious titles to help advance learning and a lecture hall that will be host to inter-faith dialogue to forge better religious understanding.

Al Farouq Mosque is one of only three mosques in the UAE that nonMuslims can visit. The other two being Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi, and the Jumeirah Mosque in Dubai.

Construction started in September last year.

The Jumeirah Mosque Shadows dance around you at sunset

A dominant landmark of Dubai, the Jumeirah Mosque was built in the medieval Fatimid tradition. This stone structure is a tribute to modern Islamic architecture. While strolling through the mosque at sunset, shadows of this elegant formation dance around you.

The Jumeirah Mosque has a Qibla

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wall, which faces Mecca, and has a Mihrab, prayer niche in the center indicating the exact praying direction. It is also the holiest place in the Jumeirah Mosque.

The Jumeirah Mosque where Muslims gather especially for the Friday prayer is the masjid jum’a, meaning, the grand mosque.

Here, as in any other mosques, it is forbidden to take pictures of living beings except plants, which can also be worshipped. This explains why it is very rare to find pictures of mosques’ interiors at all.

Jumeirah, now a high-end, bespoke community, was originally a village of fishermen, pearl divers and traders. In the 1960s, Jumeirah became a principal area for rich, western expatriates.

The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding organizes visits to the Jumeirah Mosque for non-Muslims every Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 10am, children must be over five years old. Visitors are asked to gather outside the mosque in the morning for a guided tour. Fee is 10 dirhams per person.

The Dubai Grand Mosque Originally a 1900 AD Quranic school, this mosque has 54 domes and a 70-meter-high minaret

Counted among one of the largest mosques in the UAE with a capacity of up to 1,200 worshippers, the Dubai Grand Mosque was originally constructed in traditional Islamic architectural style, and opened in 1900 A.D as a kuttab (Quranic school) where children learnt to recite the Quran from memory.

The Grand Mosque of Dubai was rebuilt, maintaining the style of the original structure, in 1998 and now boasts a 70-meter (231ft) high minaret—the tallest in the emirate.

Situated on the Bur Dubai side of the creek, near the Ruler’s Court, the Grand Mosque consists of 45 small domes in addition to nine large ones boasting stained glass panels, sand-colored walls and wooden shutters. It is the main center of worship and, as well, an important monument of Dubai.

The new Dubai Grand Mosque’s sand-colored walls and wooden shutters blend perfectly with the surrounding old quarter of Bur Dubai. The best time to see it is at night, when it is spectacularly lit up.

Non- Muslims are not allowed entry.

But they can visit the minaret and click picture of the mosque from therein.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque The mosque is almost the size of 5 football fields

The majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is probably the most imposing religious and national landmark in Abu Dhabi to date. It is also arguably one of the most important architectural treasures of contemporary UAE society—and one of the most beautiful in the world—initiated no less by the late president HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who is fondly thought of as the father of the UAE. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, popularly called the Grand Mosque by local residents, is seen as a construction to “unite the world”, using artisans and materials from countries such as Italy, Germany, Morocco, India, Turkey, Iran, China, Greece and the UAE. More than 3,000 workers and 38 renowned contracting companies took part in the construction of the Mosque.

The Mosque’s initial architectural design was Moroccan, but it evolved to include many global features, including exterior walls that are of traditional Turkish design. Natural materials were chosen for its design and construction due to their long-lasting qualities, including marble, stone, gold, semi-precious stones, crystals and ceramics.

The 22,412 square metre mosque

site is equivalent to around the size of five football fields, and can accommodate 40,960 worshippers – 7,126 in the main prayer hall; 1,960 in the open prayer hall; 980 female worshippers in the open prayer hall female section; 22, 729 in the open Sahan (courtyard); 682 in the main prayer hall entrance and 784 in the mosque’s main hall entrance.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque features 82 domes of Moroccan design and all decorated with white marble. The main dome’s outer shell measures 32.8 metres

16 I Travel Arabia

in diameter and stands at a height of 70 metres from the inside and 85 metres from the outside - the largest of its kind, according to the Turkey Research Centre for Islamic History and Culture.

The Mosque has approximately 1,000 columns in its outer areas which are clad with more than 20,000 marble panels inlaid with semi-precious stones, including lapis lazuli, red agate, amethyst, abalone shell and mother of pearl. The 96 columns in the main prayer hall are round in shape and inlaid with mother of pearl.

Additionally, the Mosque has four beautiful minarets standing at almost 107 metres each at the four corners of the mosque.

Reflective pools, totaling 7,874 square metres and laden with dark tiles, surround the Mosque, whilst coloured floral marble and mosaics pave the 17,000 square metre courtyard which is decorated with white marble from Greece. The pools reflect the Mosque’s spectacular image, which becomes even more resplendent at night.

An equally impressive interior design complements the Mosque’s awesome exterior. Italian white marble and inlaid floral designs adorn the prayer halls and the Mosque’s interior walls have decorative gold-glass mosaic features, particularly delicate on the western wall. The main glass door of the Mosque is 12.2 metres high, 7 metres wide and weighs approximately 2.2 tonnes.

The main prayer hall features the world’s largest chandelier under the main dome – being 10 metres in diameter, 15 metres in height.

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18 Travel Arabia

Aleppo souk, Syria.

Souks: A collage of Arabia’s interesting and colourful past.

Travel Arabia 19

Morocco’s 24-7 shopping central Finds: Carpets, henna, handicrafts, spices

Marrakesh, the heartbeat and unchallenged capital of Southern Morocco, is best known for its Djemaa el Fna Square—the most exuberant marketplace in the world where the city’s seductive magic and mysticism still survive Djemaa el Fna Square is a 24-7 place with stalls that sell anything from cheap freshly-squeezed orange juice in the morning to carpets, embroidery and henna products. The sun goes down and

Syria’s medieval marketplace Finds: Camel humps, hand-made metal crafts, sweetmeats, Baklavah.

The labyrinthine covered souk of Aleppo is covered by stone archways for 20 miles, making this the longest souk in the Middle East. Since the Ottoman years, tiny Suzuki trucks have replaced the tracks of camels through the tiny market alleys, but the din of braying donkeys and shouting traders is timeless

20 I Travel Arabia

in Aleppo. Donkeys and people stream along the crowded streets, and western suited businessmen rub shoulders with bedouins capped in kaffiyas. Pomegranates, camel humps and local goods sit alongside western tinned goods as a sign of changing times.

North of the Citadel leads to the cop-

the place morphs into a wonderland of storytellers, buskers, snake charmers, healers, acrobats and fakirs.

In Marrakesh, the entries to several souks run off from the Djemaa. The merchants are friendly and more than happy to have you linger over their carpets or henna products or handicrafts, even offering a glass of mint tea while you try to make up your mind.

Meantime, all types of spices await you in the El Attarine Souk. Their palette of bright colours and appetizing fragrances recall the town’s fine culinary reputation dating back to the Arabo-Andalusian tradition in the 13th century. You will also be able to find natural cosmetics.

An alley separates the El Attarine from the Joutia Souk, the salt and fish market. The Ech Chabine Souk, for its part, shows a deeply rooted aspect of the country’s tradition.

persmiths Souk, where hammers can be heard all days as they knock out jugs and pans which will be sold like vegetables based on their weight.

Built by Al-Malik az-Zaher, Saladin’s son, whose tomb is located at the entrance of the souk opposite the famed Aleppo Citadel, every one of these narrow thoroughfares is considered to be a living museum of past ages.

Other souks are al-Hamidiyeh, the most well-known in the old city of Damascus which dates back to the 18th century and famous for embroidery on brocades, silver decoration on copper, Baklavah and sweetmeats; Al-Buzuriyah, a historical Damascus souk famous for its spices; Medhat Pasha Souq, a historical souk also inside the walled city of Damascus from where many smaller souks have branched out including al-Buzuriyah Souq and al-Harir Souq.

Saudi Arabia’s old markets Finds: Ancient swords, rare mountain fruits, wild and tame predatory animals.

Saudi Arabia’s souks have remained a focal point of contemporary life, a resilient fiber of the country’s society, culture and traditions.

Among the most popular souks in Riyadh are Al Bat-haa Souk in central Riyadh which boasts various shopping malls and complexes; is particularly busy on Fridays; and is famous for its electronic goods and watches.

Others include Al Deira Souk which is best known for its traditional goods, such as men’s traditional dress, garments and accessories, a range of silverware, antiques, old silver jewelry, in addition to Arab spices and traditional clothes.

Al Zel Souk is famous for its traditional Arabic rugs, antiques and ancient swords.

Jeddah’s most significant and ancient souks are King Abdulaziz St., Qabel St., al Khasekia, al Nada and al Ashraf.

Historically, Mecca has occupied a strategic commercial location and was a central route for ancient caravans, also acting as a main destination for merchants worldwide.

Some of Mecca’s most popular souks are: al Judria, al Mudai and al Maala. The Thursday market in al Hars, which lies near the SaudiYemeni border, is replete with Yemeni goods and commodities. It is also known for selling wild and tame predatory animals.

Jordan’s treasure troves

Finds: hand-made rugs, embroidery, Dead Sea Salts, Bedouin knives.

Amman is a shopper’s paradise offering goods ranging from international designer clothes to hand-made, locally produced items.

As far as local products go, Jordan is famous for its mosaics which are still produced to this day in the Madaba area.

You can also shop for beautiful handmade rugs, which can be made to order, traditional sand bottles, ceramics, Dead Sea Salts, mud and beauty products and silver and gold articles. The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature sells a wide range of community produced foodstuffs which are organically grown by people living near the nature reserves of Dana and Ajlun. Also on offer are handmade jewelry that reflect the diversity of Jordan’s flora and fauna.

Wherever you go in Jordan you will find plenty of opportunities to shop. For visitors there is a wide range of locally made handicrafts and other goods available at all the popular sites, as well as within the boutiques of the leading hotels

and at the various visitors’ centres. There you will find hand-woven rugs and cushions, beautifully embroidered items and clothing, traditional pottery, glassware, silver jewelry embedded with semi-pre-

UAE’s popular bazaars

Finds: Persian rugs, oriental spices, gold ornaments The UAE is replete with souks offering a heady mix of the old and modern.

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In Abu Dhabi, Al Meena Souk is a must visit place widely popular for

cious stones, Bedouin knives, coffee pots, narghiles (hubble bubble), marquetry work, antiques and other artifacts. The list is endless and about as varied as you can imagine.

carpets, antiques and local souvenirs. The best buys include Persian rugs, Oriental spices, colorful fabrics and traditionally designed jewelry. While exuding the charm of yesteryear, Al Meena Souk is also locally called as the Afghan Souk.

Sharjah’s Central Market (Blue Souk) is a main shopping hub with more than 600 charming shops from where one can get anything to everything—a wide selection of silver jewelry, antiques, rugs, curios, clothes, cosmetics, cameras, Omani and Yemeni antique jewelry and household goods, precious and semi precious stones, fragrances, cameras, clothes, cosmetics and many other items.

The Gold Souq in Deira, or north side of Dubai Creek, is the most famous in the emirate. This souk gleams with gold, silver and gems. Each shop window is crammed with gold necklaces, bangles, ear-rings, brooches, rings etc. It is unbelievable!

Prices are competitive. Dealers come here from around the globe and strict regulations are followed. There are said to be more than 125 shops in the Gold

This Eid, Mövenpick Hotel Deira invites you and your family to discover the traditional Dubai with our enticing seasonal rates. Explore Deira’s destination highlights and souks, indulge in shopping and relax in modern comfort. With stylish accommodation, lively restaurants and warm, friendly service, you will experience a summer to remember at our newly opened Mövenpick Hotel Deira.

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Enjoy an Eid break in Dubai from only AED495*

Souq, selling silver, pearls, diamonds and rubies as well as gold items fashioned in the styles of many countries.

Different shops specialise in specific kinds of gold items, such as Indian gold, Italian gold and Arabic gold. The best Arabic designs come from Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, but designs of all tastes and fashions can be found here in the gold souk.

The souks carry everything that can be made from gold, but if there is some personal design you cannot find, they will make it for you. These are very highly skilled craftsmen.

The gold souq is normally open from 7am to Noon and 5pm to 7pm Saturday to Thursday. Then 5pm to 7pm on Friday.

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Travellers' Tips

Oman a cultural paradise

T

Grand Mosque

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he Sultanate of Oman is a country that is steeped in history, boasting a cultural legacy that few countries in the region can match, which is why when we recently received an opportunity, courtesy of the Oman Ministry of Tourism, to take a tour of this beautiful country, we readily accepted.

Among the various cultural attractions of Oman that have always caught our fancy are its mosques, souqs and forts.

The first stop during our tour was the magnificent Grand Mosque. Coming under the Sultan Qaboos Centre for Islamic Culture (under the Diwan of Royal Court) the mosque now stands as a crowning glory on the architectural horizon of the country. The developed part of the site, including the fully consolidated areas and landscaping, covers 416,000 square metres.

The mosque complex (covering 40,000 square metres) is constructed on a raised podium in keeping with the tradition of Omani mosques that are built elevated from street level. It can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers and consists of a main prayer hall, ladies prayer hall, covered passageways, a meeting hall and a library.

The whole interior of the Grand Mosque is finished with off-white and dark grey marble panelling with delicate cut-tile work. Ceramic floral patterns adorn arch shaped mural panels set in the marble, forming blind niches in a variety of classical Persian, predominantly Safavid, designs.

The next leg of our itinerary saw us visit the quaint towns of Nizwa, Bahla, Al Hamra, Misfah and Jabal Shams. Nizwa was the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries, and is most famous for its towering fort. Nizwa Fort has been painstakingly restored to its former glory, with its interior now serving as a museum to showcase traditional Omani life.

Its imposing central tower rises over 35 metres above the rest of the structure, and is almost 30 metres in diameter. From the top, visitors have an arresting view over the surrounding countryside.

Below, the Nizwa Souq (market) operates each day and features general Omani fare such as dates, fragrances, and spices.

On Fridays, Nizwa Souq hosts a weekly cattle market where farmers come to trade livestock in a time-honoured tradition.

However, Nizwa souk’s most unique offering is its handmade local pottery from nearby Bahla.

Bahla is an ancient town famed for its ceramics. The town is known for its expert potters, who use clay unique to the region and work it in traditional fashion to produce one-of-a-kind pieces for sale in the Nizwa Souq. Legend has it that these potters have ‘magic in their fingers’, a reputation earned over the centuries as they supplied Oman with most of its khors (water jugs) and other ceramic pieces.

Also in Bahla is the UNESCO World Heritage Site listed Bahla Fort, whose impressive towers reach up to 50 metres in height. Originally built around eight

hundred years ago at the peak of Bahla’s prosperity, the fort had slowly deteriorated over the ensuing centuries before being gradually restored to its former splendour over the last twenty years.

A highlight of our tour was a tour to the Jabal Shams mountain. At 3300m, it is the highest point on the Arabian Peninsula. Beneath it lies the breathtakingly beautiful Grand Canyon of Arabia, a series of jagged valleys and rugged escarpments disappearing into the distance. The famous Balcony Walk takes visitors along a narrow track just beneath the cliff top, providing stunning views into the canyon and across to ancient ruins clinging to the rock face.

The final leg of our tour covered Salalah, featuring visits to the Museum of the Frankincense Land located at the Al Balid Archaeological Park, a UNESCO heritage site. The museum, which is the latest addition to Oman’s heritage and cultural scene, houses two main halls; the History Hall, depicting the geography, history of the ancient Frankincense trail and the histori-

cal background of the Sultanate through a number of archaeological findings, and the Marine Hall, featuring displays about the development of Oman’s rich marine history.

We also had a chance to visit the impressive Sultan Qaboos Mosque, the Al Husn Palace and the old Haffah Souq, which is famous for the sale of high quality frankincense and other traditional Dhofari souvenirs. Our memorable Oman escapade ended on a high with a tour of East and West Salalah, which gave us a chance to visit the century-old Taqah Castle, the ancient ruins of the once famous city of Sumharam, the Qara Mountains and the Salalah Plains.

If we could offer one piece of advice to our readers planning their vacation this summer, it would be to visit Oman. This is one destination that will take you by surprise with the sheer variety it has to offer. After all, it is with reason that Oman’s Ministry of Tourism targets to draw in 12 million visitors a year by 2020.

Travel Arabia I 27

Safar’s Tips & Bits on the Swiss Travelling to Switzerland? Safar Travel & Tourism has this list of everything you need to know.

First, no need to worry about the Swiss economy. In comparison to other European countries, the pace of Swiss growth is above average, and is continually growing. According to Safar’s statistics, customers find Switzerland the preferred destination any day, particularly for Emiratis.

Climate: From June to September, most of the country enjoy a central European climate ranging between 18 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius. The coldest city is Jura, in particular the Brevine Valley.

If you wish for a more Mediterranean, warmer climate, travel south to Ticino.

Shopping: Switzerland is known for

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its excellent products, including Swiss watches, Swiss knives, Swiss chocolates, Swiss cheese, folklore souvenirs (such as music boxes), designer clothing, antiques and art. The shopping areas are spread out throughout the country. Safar’s advice is to shop at standard shops and showrooms, and be attentive when purchasing from roadside vendors.

Accommodation: Hotels in Switzerland are classified as Deluxe (5*), First Class (4*), Tourist Class (3*), Standard (2*) and Basic (1*). Many youth hostels and camping sites are available in Switzerland if you’re seeking a more affordable bed.

The Swiss Pass: The Swiss Pass permits users to travel on all trains in the Swiss Rail Network. The Swiss Flexi Pass allows tourists to travel on a certain number of days in a month. The Swiss Youth Pass is valid for youngsters under the age of 26. The Swiss Transfer Ticket, Swiss Card and Swiss Travel System Family Card are other discounted travel options in Switzerland. The Eurail Select Pass is another discounted travel option that can be availed of in Switzerland.

Educational Camps: Switzerland have a lot of children and students summer camps with a lot of educational and fun activities! Were you hoping to spend some quality time with your spouse?

Families can secure their children in one of those camps and enjoy a romantic Swiss vacation. Everyone’s a winner!

Main cities to visit: Geneva, Zurich, Lucerne , Lugano and Interlaken

With experience of over 40 years as General Sales Agents for Swiss International Airlines, Switzerland— the world’s number one European destination—Safar Travel & Tourism, a member of Al Fahim Group, has been appointed the Official Travel Agent for the Swiss-Emirati Friendship Forum. You may now easily obtain a visa for Switzerland by applying for the Schengen Visa – for assistance please contact 800SAFAR or visit the website – www.safar.ae for more information.

Weekend escape

The Cove Rotana Resort, Ras Al Khaimah There’s something quite indulgent about a weekend away, but with Ras Al Khaimah just an hour away from Dubai this is one destination that doesn’t need too much planning. For a quick family getaway the Cove Rotana Resort is the perfect option. This village-like resort is set against a delightful hillside backdrop and hugs a 600 metre coastline giving a feeling of space and utter tranquillity.

Completely hidden from view it is easy to drive by without seeing it but once there though the resort is a delight, sprawling over acres of low rise villas interspersed by winding alleyways and an abundance of verdant gardens.

If you are going with the family or even a group of friends opt for one of the spacious two or three-bedroom villas, each of which comes with kitchen and living room, and two or three independent bedrooms all with a terrace or balcony as well as a decent sized plunge pool.

Staying in one of the villas close to the beach does mean you are quite far from

the restaurants in the main building but the golf buggies roaming around ensure the whole family are transported swiftly and efficiently.

Breakfast and lunch options come in the form of the resort’s all-day dining option, Cinnamon. This buffet style dining is ideal for families and Cinnamon offers a particularly good choice of salads, hot dishes and more than enough irresistible desserts. For evening dining try the more exclusive Mediterranean Basilico for some classic Italian dishes or freshly caught local seafood.

Staying at the Cove means you can do as much or as little as you want with a variety of water sports including scuba diving or taking out the single and double kayaks for a paddle around the lagoon area. The resort also offers a good health club with Jacuzzi, steam and Sauna and several treatment rooms for massages, facials and spa treatments. The gym is more than adequate for dedicated fitness goers with a good range of cardio and

weight training machines as well as some free weights.

Recommendations: weekends can be busy, so advance reservations are highly recommended. Whilst in Ras Al Khaimah, visit the Iceland Water Park – just ten minutes from the hotel, but take plenty of sunscreen and hats as there is very little shade in the park.

Rates: There is a great promotion on villa rates until the end of August available through www.rotana.com ; hoteliers and airline personnel can enjoy rates of US$69 per room per night.

Further information and reservations +971 (0)7 206 6000 or email: cove. resort@rotana.com quoting ‘VILLA11’ Getting there from Dubai: Drive straight down Emirates Road, turn left at the very end and then, after about ten minutes, do a u-turn to the resort.

Alternatively, use the bypass road to avoid passing through Sharjah at peak times.

Travel Arabia I 29

Whistle Stop “Set amid the mountains with its famous cloudy quilt-covering, often turning to a vibrant pink ‘candy-floss’ in the sunset, this lush and diverse scenery was a truly visually stunning experience to behold.” -- Julian Redman.

Playful seals at the waters by the Hermanus Seal Island.

Cape Town ‘One of the most naturally stunning places I had ever visited.’

I

’ll be honest, when the invitation to Cape Town came through I was a little apprehensive. The UK media didn’t really paint a wonderful picture of South Africa with reports about high-drama crime incidents. But like any place, they can be avoided and are often quite isolated. So I packed my bags and went to what turned out to be one of the most naturally stunning places I had ever visited.

Erinvale Golf Estate in Somerset West, 30 minutes outside of Cape Town, was my home during the few occasions I was in South Africa. Set amid the mountains

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with its famous cloudy quilt-covering, often turning to a vibrant pink “candy-floss” in the sunset, this lush and diverse scenery was a truly visually stunning experience to behold.

The local gardens and vineyard of Vergelegen barely a five-minute drive from the house was a fabulous introduction to the characteristics of the finer side of South Africa; surrounded by magnificent Dutch colonial architecture, mature gardens, charming restaurants, and of course some freshly harvested wines, Vergelegen was a must for anyone in the Somerset Region. After a couple of

visits to South Africa, I soon realized that these establishments were the bedrock for the international tourist—fuelled with great photo opportunities and selling stock by the caseload, it was clear that I was experiencing part of a roaring trade for the “local farmers”, although perhaps “international businessmen” may be a more appropriate term in the case of some vineyards.

Thankfully, I was fortunate enough to share a dinner with one of these high profile Vintners, Ken Forrester, who had his own winery just outside of Stellenbosch. It was an archetypical South African

Erinvale Golf Estate Sunset.

farmer’s hospitality: fresh lobster caught from his trawler that morning; lashing of drinks from his extensive cellar. I also only then realized the extent of his brand’s name when I saw that his wine has been chosen by Emirates Airlines. He was a great host, indeed!

Cape Town itself with the “Table Mountain” backdrop was a wonderful blend of classic architecture in the town centre to modern design of the V&A (Victoria & Albert) Waterfront where restaurants and marina-side walks were the main attraction for affluent shoppers and diners alike. The food in South Africa was amazingly fresh and hearty.

For meat lovers like me, South Africa has to be the best place on earth for the most tender, lean, tasty chops of meat I have ever enjoyed. “Trio of Game” including Ostrich (wow!), Springbok and Deer still makes me salivate years later.

My lone-walk around the downtown was an interesting few hours as I passed shops and stalls and with a few comments from the indigenous population who al-

most seemed alarmed that I was brave (or perhaps naïve) enough to walk the streets without a guide made it a rather interesting “off-piste” experience. References to my Caucasian skin tone were not aggressive, simply statements of fact I guess!

Next stop was Camps Bay for a very refreshing coastal lunch and a walk along the long stretches of sandy beach watching the “uber-cool” surfers pose on the

shoreline and hit the icy Antarctic waters to catch those crashing waves. The properties perched on the hill tops were very attractive and clearly was the prime real estate in South Africa—there was a small thought of one day owning one.

My final trip around the coast of South Africa was to Hermanus—home of the Great White Shark Cage Diving and Right Whale Watching tours (named

Camps Bay.

Travel Arabia I 31

Typical Vineyard.

Right Whale as they were “right for hunting” as sadly their friendly nature made them easier for the ancient fishermen to catch). As an enthusiastic team of friends

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drove closer to the town, the thought of diving in a cage in freezing waters with a killer shark inches away didn’t fill me with excitement. But now I wish the

Cape Hope.

Hermanus Cage Dive

Camps Bay.

Hermanus right while.

weather wasn’t so adverse that our dive was cancelled and we merely had a boat ride over the top of them and through the Seal Islands—hundreds of extremely smelly, blubbery seals inhabiting rocky outcrops avoiding the jaws of Jaws. Seeing the sharks swim under our relatively fragile boat, the “I think we need a bigger boat” line from the original Jaws movie sprang to mind as we were circled by four Great White Sharks often leaping out of the water for the chump supplied by the neighbouring Cage Dive Tour.

If I have to sum up parts of South Africa I saw, which was barely 10 percent of the land mass, I would say it is host to some of the most stunning landscapes I have ever seen, the atmosphere producing the mountain clouds is unsurpassed and the food and beverage was a true delight to enjoy. Suffice to say, the Cape Town and Stellenbosch region certainly got my vote as a destination worth travelling to.

Happy Travels!

Why go anywhere else‌ The Country Club Hotel is a four-star property that offers its guests hospitality with a touch of warmth and service of international standards. It is the perfect respite for tourist, business and corporate clients all over the globe boasting its 102 tastefully decorated, spacious rooms that include 18 executive rooms and 12 suites. For the luxury of comfort, coupled with gracious hospitality and stimulating entertainment, look no further than the welcoming doors of The Country Club Hotel.

Nestled in the heart of the city, adjacent to New Gold Souk and in close proximity to exhibition/trade halls which is just 10 minutes away from World Trade Center and Dubai International Airport. It also enjoys easy proximity to varous pulse points of the city-malls, business avenues and touris attaractions, and is 5 minutes away from Jumeirah Beach.

Savor the diversified dining experience at The Country Club Hotel over international flavors, culinary specials and gracious service that make you smile. Variety is the spice of life and with 5 restaurants, and a 24 hour coffee shop to choose from, it is easy to satisfy even the most discriminating palettes. The Hotel has a state of the art health club with an international spa.

Our philosophy to entertain, exhilarate and exceed all expectations in hospitality and service is integral to us.

The Country Club Hotel, Behind New Gold Souk, P.O. Box 118094, Dubai, UAE, Tel. +971 4 398 8840, Fax. +971 4 398 5352 info@countryclubdubai.com reservation@countryclubdubai.com Website: www.countryclubdubai.com

Getaways

Crusoe would have loved it here Fridays Boracay: Where else would you rather be?

Private beach, awesome sunset, grilled lobster, soothing massage, wi-fi, scuba—indeed, you can stay here forever!

B

reath-taking sunsets, powdery sand between your toes, crystal-clear water, and a gentle breeze… the recipe for whatever vacation one may need in paradise.

Fridays Boracay, Philippines is a resort with boundless opportunities for family adventure and memorable special events.

Our first two cottages were built in 1982, making the resort the first small hotel in Boracay. The name “Fridays” comes from Daniel Defoe’s classic “Robinson Crusoe” who was shipwrecked on a lost island. Crusoe was surprised to meet a native young man whom he named Friday and who ultimately became his constant companion and assistant.

We at Fridays Boracay aspire to fulfill your every need from scrumptious meals prepared by the Fridays Culinary team to soothing massages by the beach. Our tropical-style cottages are outfitted with modern amenities to suit your needs.

Fridays Boracay Resort is situated in the northern, quiet part of Boracay Island’s main White Beach. Away from the maddening crowd, Fridays ensures relative privacy. To those seeking respite, we understand how important your vacation is and our staff is trained to cater to the smallest of details.

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The beachfront is considered to be one of the finest in Boracay and is an ideal place to kick back and relax while enjoying breathtaking sunsets and sipping your favorite beverage. Apart from fruit juices and shakes, signature cocktails are available like the “Friday’s Sunset” or the “Robinson Crusoe.”

Rest Have the island feel with all the amenities needed. At Fridays, we take your comfort seriously. Fridays Boracay has deluxe and premier rooms just a few strides from the beach. These are generally located around the swimming pool and the courtyard. Each has a private verandah where you can laze around enjoying the resort’s ambiance.

Our circular premier suites overlook the resort and have a panoramic view of the sea. They afford more privacy for couples who would rather be on their own and enjoy the beach which is just a few steps away.

In addition to the 41 rooms of the resort, the company also has a seven-room cottage adjacent to its property. This cottage has one Superior Beach View room and six Superior rooms. Guests enjoy the same amenities and superb Fridays service. Special packages are ready for families that may want to use this home away from home.

Relax Enjoy the luxury of a relaxing massage in the privacy of your room or at the Massage Hut. Our trained masseuses offer an assortment of relaxing treatments: Hilot, the traditional Filipino massage which one must try, Swedish, Shiatsu, Deep Tissue, Aromatherapy, Lymphatic Reflexology to release those tense knots.

You can also give your feet the rest and pampering they need with our “Foot Spa” package which includes a foot scrub, foot massage and pedicure. Soothe your tired feet with a 30-minute “Aromatherapy Foot Massage” which uses extra virgin coconut

oil infused with the herbal extract of your choice: peppermint, eucalyptus, rosemary, ylang-ylang and lemon.

Our services extend to facials, manicures and pedicures, waxing and paraffin treatments.

Relish Friday’s outstanding reputation holds true especially in its kitchen. Head Chef Bill McGrath has brought his vast experience to the island and works wonders with the local produce. He and his team of chefs create an impressive assemblage of dishes with influences from Asia, the Mediterranean, the Pacific Rim and Continental Europe. Some of their specialties include Lobster bisque in whisky for soup; Shrimp Pasta Salad for starter; Seafood Paella, or Grilled Palawan Lobster for main dish; and blueberry cheesecake for dessert.

For those with a sweet tooth, Fridays is known on the island for the chocolates, cakes and pastries done by its in-house Pastry Chef.

Food prepared in the Halal tradition is available upon request. Do let us know if you have any dietary concerns, we would be more than happy to cater to your needs.

Rendezvous In paradise one can experience pleasure and still do business. For those unable to resist staying connected, WI-FI internet access is available all throughout the resort. If you have left your computer behind, some are available to let.

A conference room for 40 persons may be used for any business meetings you feel must be had during your stay in paradise.

The resort maintains a business center,

which has most if not all communication’s requirements to stay in touch with those back home.

to do. Our activities officer would be more than happy to plan several activities the kids can do.

Revitalize With a list of things to do on your holiday, Fridays Boracay offers an array of activities for the more active voyager.

Boracay Island has a myriad of activities one can indulge one’s self in. Our Activities Hut Officer can book you a horseback ride, a boat ride around the island, and a round of golf amongst other things.

If scuba diving tickles your fancy, the Calypso scuba shack based in Fridays is there to meet your needs. Guests may avail of entry dives, take lessons to be certified or be guided to more adventurous dive sites.

Kids also have their own set of things

Romance Local and visiting guests have chosen to celebrate that special day right in front of the resort’s talcum-like white sand with the spectacular sunset and the calm seawater as background. Fridays makes the event memorable with its superb setting, professional service and delectable food.

Chef Bill and his team are adept in the preparation of sumptuous feasts for up to 300 persons.

For more information and pictures of our little piece of paradise, we invite you to log on to www.fridaysboracay.com. You may also email us at info@fridaysboracay. com.

Travel Arabia I 35

Outside Arabia

Hua Hin-the Retreat of Kings

Sam Roi Yod National Park.

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H

ua Hin is renowned as the location of the King of Thailand’s summer palace, and has always been a favourite summer retreat for wealthy Thais and royalty long before its charms were discovered by international visitors. Popular for its spectacular beaches, Hua Hin is a more subdued resort than some of its sister destinations in Thailand, yet it also offers a spectacular array of activities for the whole family.

Located 200 kilometres south of Bangkok on the west coast of the Gulf of Thailand, the beach resort is accessible by rail and air, or a comfortable two-hour drive on well built roads from the capital.

In addition to miles of peaceful beaches and clear blue sea, Hua Hin offers numerous national parks, mountains, waterfalls, caves, temples, and historical sites for visitors to explore. Other activities include swimming, fishing, water sports, golf, and horse riding. Hua Hin is an excellent family destination, a paradise for golfers, and an idyllic place to relax and unwind.

Pedal Trishaws Hua Hin.

Places to visit and noteworthy festivals Hua Hin has no shortage of Buddhist and Chinese temples as well as palaces, waterfalls, national parks and historical sites to visit. Don’t miss Huay Mongkol Temple set on 200 rai of land planted with sunflowers - offering a fabulous sight when all are in bloom around February. Or the lotus marshes at Sam Roi Yod National Park from January to February to see the regal flowers up close or stroll along wooden walkways across

the marsh for a spot of bird watching.

A feature of any destination worthy of tourists in Thailand is the Night Market, and Hua Hin is no exception. In Hua Hin, look for the myriad of street stalls selling delicious Thai food, and the locally made khommapatra fabric – a hand-painted cotton or silk adorned with elaborate traditional Thai patterns which is used to make a wide variety of products including table mats and table

cloths.

Wherever you go in Thailand, delicious food is a highlight. The Petchaburi region in which Hua Hin is situated is popular for fresh seafood, as well as locally grown fruits such as pineapple, rose apple, sugar or custard apple, dragon fruit, guava, lychee, longan, mango and many other more common varieties. The locally grown pineapples are reputed to be the best in Thailand.

The area plays host to several exciting festivals during the year, with the Hua Hin Cha Am Golf Festival taking place in August, the Hua Hin Sailing Regatta in July/August, attracting upwards of 300 competitors each year, and the International Kite Festival held in March each year.

For vintage car enthusiasts, not to be missed in December is the annual Vintage Car Rally with over 60 vintage, classic and replica cars joining the 225 km journey from central Bangkok to Hua Hin, culminating in a Sunday parade around the town.

For kids and the young at heart JWS Motorsport Go-Kart Track (http://www.huahinsport.com/huahinmotorsports.htm ) – beautifully designed with racers splitting a 30 minute session

Market in Hua Hin.

Travel Arabia I 37

Where to stay Dusit Thani Hua Hin, it is.

Commanding an unspoilt beachfront location, the spectacular Dusit Thani Hua Hin hotel combines sumptuous comfort with wondrous classic traditional style. An ornamental lake, lily pond and tropical gardens flank a magnificent swimming pool and the luxury hotel provides well-appointed guest rooms, a range of dining and entertainment options, a variety of sports and recreational facilities including water sports, tennis and squash courts, fitness centre and a horse riding track, plus the tranquil Devarana Spa for ultimate pampering.

Dusit Thani Hua Hin.

into two 15 minute drives, stopping to enjoy a cool drink in the Podium Cafe.

Safari & Adventure Park Hua Hin (http://www.huahinsafari.com/ )offers paintball, waster sports, jet ski, parasailing, ATV bikes, elephant trekking, horse carriage riding, archery and a rock climbing wall.

Golfers paradise Hua Hin is the leading golf resort in South East Asia boasting 8 world class golf courses within 20 minutes of the town, and green fees amongst the lowest in the world. Check out http://www. golfinhuahin.com/ for further information.

Editor’s recommendation Combine a city visit at Dusit Thani Hotel Bangkok with your holiday at Dusit Thani Hua Hin, and use the luxury shuttle service offered to hotel guests between the two properties.

When to be there Hua Hin’s climate is tropical and humid for much of the year and although the wet season runs from late May to October, it is characterised by frequently heavy but brief downpours – maintaining a pleasant temperature throughout the day. THAI Airways flies daily from Dubai to Bangkok.

Hua Hin beach.

Railway station Hua Hin.

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Hua Hin, Prachuap Khirikhan.

The perfect place for a romantic honeymoon, a family holiday, and a business trip.

With its resplendent view of Dubai Marina and the Arabian Sea as a backdrop for serene living space, and the malls nearby, where else would you rather be? “Book through hotel website and avail the promotion of Stay 4 Nights and Pay for 3 Nights from Aug 1st , 2011 to Aug 25th ,2011�

PROMO CODE : RAMADAN (Rate auto adjust)

Tel: +971 4 399 6644, Fax: +971 4 399 6633 P.O. Box: 11640, Dubai - U.A.E., Email: info@marinahotelapt.com, www.marinahotelapt.com

Odyssey are well catered for.

Spa Encompassing the Five Element Theory; Wood, Fire, Metal, Earth & Water and the healing practices of traditional Ayurveda, each spa experience takes you on a journey through the cycle of nature.

Built around a unique concept, the Sun Spa at Olhuveli emanates a feeling of peace and harmony from the moment

Out of this world, totally!

Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort Maldives A picturesque 45-minute speedboat ride from the airport takes you to a place you’ve never seen before.

Located on the tip of South Male’ Atoll, 34km from Male’ International Airport is the idyllic Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort, famed for its beautiful beaches and abundant sandbanks. The resort is reached by a picturesque 45-minute speedboat journey.

Accommodation Step into your new home for the next few blissful days. Each of the 164 villas from Deluxe Rooms, Deluxe Water Villas, Beach Villas, Jacuzzi Water Villas and Honeymoon Water Villas to the luxurious Presidential Water Suite has been crafted purely with comfort, relaxation and elegance in mind. The rooms have been

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designed taking the classic materials of nature, blending them with contemporary chic and open-air styled intended to make the most of the Maldivian sunlight and tranquil views.

Wine and Dine One of the highlights of a stay at Olhuveli is the outstanding cuisine, which has fresh, delicious seafood at its heart.

Think creative, organic food with flair, prepared by world class chefs and served in enjoyably different and unique settings.

From an unhurried lunch on the beach with friends or family, dining alfresco in the relaxing heat of the day, to a candle-lit dinner for two under the stars, all tastes

you enter the premises. There are eight deluxe treatment pavilions complete with open shower, garden, luxurious spa bath, individually selected spa music, and a beauty saloon.

Leisure Olhuveli has a five-star Gold Palm PADI dive center, offering a complete range of professional diving; Water Sports World offering a variety of activities including kite surfing, wake boarding and water skiing; and a full range of excursion and activities including big game fishing, dolphin safari, sunset cruise, day excursions.

The resort also has two large fresh water swimming pools with infinity edge; a children’s’ pool and activity center; flood-lit tennis, volleyball, badminton, gymnasium, table tennis, billiards, board games and a private Karaoke Room with a selection of international songs.

Tranquil Moments The Spa at The Address Downtown Dubai It is not often that spas in Dubai come complete with a view quite as amazing as that at The Spa at The Address Downtown Dubai.

This handsome spa sprawls over 1600 sqm and has been designed to capitalise on the hotel’s location with a relaxation lounge that provides uninterrupted views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain.

I arrived at the hotel in plenty of time for my appointment and got a quick peek of this view as I was escorted to the changing room and then to the aroma room where I relaxed in eucalyptus scented steam for 20 minutes.

I had been recommended The Spa’s signature treatment – Restore – which is designed to do just that, release deepseated tension and restore energy to the body.

My therapist Amor led me to a spacious and warmly inviting treatment room where I was given a foot scrub and handed a music menu to choose the background music before lying on the couch for the first part of the treatment, the body scrub. Using a mixture of mineral salt and grapeseed oil, which is blended by hand at The Spa, Amor proceeded to gently but effectively scrub every inch of my skin until I tingled all over.

After a quick shower to remove the salt scrub I was back on the couch for the hot stone massage. Lying face down Amor began with a medium pressure massage using her hands which she then repeated using smooth, volcanic rocks that have been heated in water. At first a little hot the heat soon subsided to make this a very pleasant experience.

Hot stones were then placed at strategic points on my body including my hands, buttocks and back to further relax my muscles. I was then turned over for Amor to massage my legs, abdomen and chest again placing the hot stones on various points of my body including my stomach and ankles.

75 minutes later and I was ready for the final part of the treatment, the cleansing, toning and moisturising facial with head massage to finish.

After two blissful hours of pampering and feeling completely restored I headed to the relaxation lounge to enjoy the views once more and the thoughtfully provided selection of infusions, dates and cookies.

The Restore signature treatment is Dhs 995 for two hours.

Good for: escaping the hot summer sun for a blissful afternoon.

Travel Arabia I 41

Chronicles Come fly with me Dubai is awesome from up here

‘The views, not often seen by many, were uploaded in our minds and saved in a folder to be cherished forever.’

Sky is the limit. When you’re done seeing Dubai from the ground, it’s time to take it a notch higher—literally.

When I was a child, I used to admire the tourist helicopters flying over downtown New York, wondering what it would be like to have a bird’s view of the hustle and bustle of a city that never sleeps. After my first helicopter tour of Dubai, all my questions were answered. The flight gave me countless frame-able moments that I can cherish all my life.

On my way to the helipad to take off from the prestigious location at the Palm Jumeriah , next to the hot Nassimi beach party spot, I was having mixed feelings about the experience.

As I arrived at the Alpha Tours office, which organized the flight, I was pleasantly greeted at the reception and presented a tag for my flight. I could tell that my fellow passengers had similar feelings: fear and excitement. All that everyone can think of probably was how miniature Dubai would look from 1,000 meters in the air.

The helicopter was an AS 350 B3, a five-seater equipped with panoramic view windows, climate control and sound proofed interior.

We were given a pre-flight safety brief-

Contributed by Maryam Jabbar.

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ing, and a life jacket. A staff introduced us to the attractions which we were about to see—the iconic wonders like Burj-ul-Arab Hotel and The Atlantis, to the man- made World Island, and Union Square.

Finally hunching down and seated inside the helicopter, our experienced pilot welcomed all five of us. I could feel the adrenaline rush with the astounding vertical take-off. The thrill continued as our pilot, through our headphones, gave us information about the landmarks viewed.

The view of the Palm simply took my breath away, the grandeur and the perfection with The Atlantis to its end is unimaginable. As the tour proceeded towards the seven-star Burj-ul-Arab and the Jumeriah Beach, all my doubts and worries flew away, so to speak. Perfectly crafted-out shapes of the continents of The World Island, the second man-made island in U.A.E, were awesome. We glided above the pristine waters of the Arabian Sea along the shoreline of Jumeriah, Port Rashid, The Dubai Marina, The Mall of the Emirates, the modern commerce hub Sheikh Zayed Road, The Downtown Dubai, The Burj Khalifa—officially the tallest tower in the world—and The Business Bay tied tongues.

The views, not often seen by many, were uploaded in our minds and saved in a folder to be cherished forever. The flight

was so smooth, I felt like a bird floating in the sky.

The striking view of the skyline of Dubai with Burj Khalifa standing tall left me thinking about how small the world is from up here. With no noise and hustle, life seemed so free, so light that I’d rather, if I could, just stay there forever.

It was a 15-minute flight but it seemed forever. Alpha tours offer two options—a pricey-but-all-worth-it AED 700 for a 15-minute flight, and AED 1,500 for a 30-minute one. Bookings can be made online on www.alphatoursdubai.com.

TREASURES OF GREECE

Aegean Islands Cruise and Athens

er M S upMeC I Aingls until S ook B 011 rd: y Bi June 2 l r a E 30

Cruise with a Megayacht through the gems of the Greek Islands

In Greece, the cradle of Western civilization beckons you with its proud monuments, sun-drenched isles, and friendly people. You want to discover the beauties of the Greek Islands plus discover the enduring treasures of antiquity, from the Parthenon in Athens to the Temple of Apollo.If you are looking for a touch of adventure on the Mediterranean, by way of a casual, informal and relaxing cruise vacation, without the routine of traditional cruise tours? Then cruise aboard Sindbad Trails private small ship, and explore millenniaold settlements layered deeply in myth and history. Visit Delos, birthplace of Apollo ... volcanic Santorini … bustling Syros … and Crete, the craddle of ancient history. Crown your adventure with two nights Athens, Greece’s cosmopolitan capital.

SpeCIAl proMotIon: Departure July 20, 11 for 2 people, 2nd person pays half the actual price.

Single travellers: no single supplement MS Harmony V Your comfortable Megayacht Delivered to Variety in October 2008, the 180-ft. (55 meters) vessel was originally launched in 2003, but completely rebuilt in 2007. The Cruise line is attracting with its small ships and unique itineraries. It can travel leisurely 12 knots, has dual stabilizers, has been made SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) compliant, and received a complete cosmetic and technological facelift.

Harmony V has three passenger decks and capacity for 49 guests.

Ship Specifications: Sundeck: Public area with chaises-lounges, sitting area, dining room, bar & bridge Upperdeck: 16 cabins all with windows, 2 of which can be used for triple occupancy. Maindeck: Dining Room & Interior Lounge, 9 cabins (all with windows).

Length overall: 55 m Stabilizers: Twin stabilizers Beam: 8,20 m Crew: 17 members Draught: 3,00 m Insurance Coverage: LLOYD’S

Services & Facilities:

Internet & e-mail service, TV/Audiovisual in lounge, Sports equipment: Kayak, snorkeling. Special meal programmes: Vegetarian, diabetic diet (to be requested in advance). Other services: Cruise manager services on scheduled cruises sailings, optional excursions, no doctor on board.

Your Itinerary

villages with unique views over the Aegean Sea.Overnight sailing to Crete.

Day 6: rethymnon / Crete Morning arrival at Crete’s famous and lively port of Rethymnon.Optional tour to the ancient city of Knossos near Heraklion.Late departure for Kithrya.

Overnight at sea.

Day 7: Kithrya Late morning swim stop and afternoon arrival to Kithrya, a less known island gem now fast becoming a favourite among visitors. Evening at leisure to visit the picturesque main town of Chora and experience the subdued charms of this peaceful island. Overnight in Kithrya.

Day 8: Monemvassia – nafplion Early morning sailing to Monemvassia.

Discover a remarkable medieval fortified town, with time at leisure to explore the uniquely preserved Byzantine and Venetian architecture and experience the beauty of the natural setting. Depart

Day 1: Dubai/Muscat – Athens Departure by Qatar Airways from Dubai/ Muscat via Doha to Athens. Transfer to Hotel Divani Palace Acropolis, centrally located. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 2: Discover Athens In the morning Athens Sightseeing with the visit of the famous Acropolis , the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of modern times were held in 1896 and not to forget a walk through the lively Plaka with its many small shops and tavernas. Afternoon at leisure for shopping.

Day 3: Marina Zea – Island of Kea Transfer from the hotel to Marina Zea. Embarkation on the Yacht Harmony V. Depart via Kap Sounion to Kea. Time at leisure to explore Kea’s tiny port, Korrisia after dinner. Departure in the early hours for Delos.

Day 4: Delos – Mykonos Optional morning tour to the archaeological site of Delos,antiquity’s most sacred island.On to the port of Mykonos, with a swim stop on the way.

Free afternoon and evening to enjoy the island’s cosmopolitan lifestyle.Overnight in Mykonos.

Day 5: Santorini Noon arrival in Santorini (anchorage at Fira). Experience the stunning natural drama of the volcanic Cadera. Optional tour to archaeological sites and typical

for Nafplion in the early afternoon, with a swim stop on the way. Evening arrival at Nafplion. The old quarter is charming, with narrow streets and characteristic period architecture. Also, impressive medieval fortifications can be seen in the port and crowning the hills above.

Overnight in Nafplion.

Day 9: nafplion – Hydra or Spetses Optional tour to Mycenae, the powerful walled palace of Agamenon, the Homeric Archean king.Early afternoon departure for the islands of Hydra or Spetses.Time at leisure to explore this picturesque port town.Overnight in port.

Day 10: Marina Zea– Flight back to Dubai/Muscat Departure in the early hours for Marina Zea, Piraeus. Arrival and disembarkation after breakfast.

Transfer to the airport. Departure by Qatar Airways from Athens via Doha.

Evening arrival in Dubai/Muscat.

Departure chart Outward Journey Wednesday

June 15 22

July 6 13 20 27

package rates per person in oMr for 10 Days / 9 nights Cat.

Cabin

Deck

C B A P

Outside Outside Outside Outside

Main Main Upper Upper

not included:

Triple n/a n/a 1525 n/a

Price per Person Double 1495 1695 1795 1945

Single 1945 2195 2365 2565

August 3 10 17 24 31

September 7 14 21 28

October 5 12 19 26

Services included:

• Flights with Qatar Airways in Economy class • All taxes and fuel supplements • All transfers in Athens, Half Day Athens Sightseeing tour incl. visit of the Acropolis and English speaking guide • 2 Nights at the Divani Palace Acropolis Hotel 5*in double rooms including breakfast buffet • 7 Nights Cruise on the Megayacht Harmony V 4* • Meals on board: Daily American Breakfast and one meal • Beverages: Regular (filter) coffee, tea and mineral water free all day • Port Taxes and all service charges • Travel documentation

All meals not mentioned above, Beverages (except those mentioned above), Shore Excursions, Crew Tips, Personal expenses, Travel Insurances, Visa Fee for Greece ( approx. OMR 39/-)

Gulf Sindbad travel & tourism llC Al Khwair 17/1, Al Kuleiah Street, Villa 14, P.O.Box 715, PC114, Muttrah - Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, Phone: +968 2447 5437, info@sindbad-trails.com

Departures: 22 June + 13/27 July + 17/24 Aug + 5/12/19 oct early Bird: Discount per person oMr 250/Applies only for bookings until 30 June 2011 and not for Category C and P

Taste Travel The Rare experience

Desert Palm Retreat’s restaurant has more than just exquisite food some 20 minutes’ drive away from the city proper, and where home is a private villa with temperature-controlled swimming pool or a suite with state-of-theart amenities; where Dubai’s non-stop activities slow down and juxtapose with a traditional Arabic residence; and where guests have all the time in the world to pamper themselves like pop icons with the spa, gym, and even a quick horseback riding lesson.

A Rare experience by all accounts.

Savour flavour in idle chat while watching an exciting polo match or marveling over Dubai’s glitzy skyline, flickering like a million fireflies in frenzy.

Rare – (râr). Uncommon. Excellent; extraordinary.

For the bone-weary city soul, lunch or dinner at Desert Palm’s award-winning Rare Restaurant is indeed an experience uncommon, excellent and extraordinary.

It’s where you go when you want more than just food—not to mean, of course, that the meal is a disappointing letdown; in fact, it’s, hands down, superbly exquisite that should go with quality time spent as you and your special someone, family, friends, or business partners savour flavour in idle chat while watching an exciting polo match at daytime, or marveling over Dubai’s glitzy skyline at night, flickering from as distance like a million fireflies in a frenzied dance ritual.

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All this from candlelit tables inside floor-to-ceiling glass windows or at the cozy restaurant’s terrace, while chefs ensure that preferences are met to the last detail for the bon vivant in you, and the assistants indulge in the pleasure of being your servants.

At Rare, guests can enjoy wood-fired steak and game meticulously prepared by expert cooks while mouth-watering aromas emanate from the Beech oven and grill as Black Angus, an Australian Wagyu, and Argentinean Chimichurri are complemented by seasonal game and line-caught seafood, fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs.

What’s more is that Rare is the gem of a sojourn at Desert Palm, a retreat

Distinctive voyage to the Grill Chic, elegance and precision are the main words for an Ember Grill Designer Weekend Lunch experience. Being a great enthusiast of fine dining, my expectations of a designer weekend lunch were high enough to look for every point to closely look into. However, to my surprise, I walked out with overall satisfaction. Ember Grill is located in the center of Dubai, in the heart of the fashion avenue of Dubai Mall in Burj Downtown—an ideal lunch after a long day of shopping.

The hostess honored us with our reservation and took us to the seats right away. Entering through an angular directive walkway, the stone textured walls and the full length mirrors aimed us towards the dining area. The lighting, fashioned in a very soothing and relaxed manner, played a very dramatic pulling feeling. As we entered into the main sky lit dining area, a jazz singer gave a stress-free and personal touch.

Comfortably seated in the corner with the clear view of the whole place, with the cellar and the rugged screens clearly visible was an exceptionally at-ease setting.

The concept of grilled is carried out in the interior as well, interpreted with the roughness of the wooden screens, uneven textured stone walls, and evenly spread-up daylight which softens the entire restaurant. A warm color scheme with alcove lighting throws a very subtle environment, too.

The open plan kitchen and a set of unlimited, finely detailed appetizers, and desserts welcome you onto an experience that one will remember for its element of finesse. The concept of the Ember grill weekend designer lunch starts with the buffet, starter and then the dessert. The main course chosen from the menu, including a beverage per one’s choice; fresh juices are also available.

The expedition begins with the limitless variety of the translucently garnished appetizers. Seasoned Tuna Platter is the most finely detailed appetizer, garnished with cut quail’s egg, a few drops of red caviar and a miniature piece of eggplant on a piece of tuna scores ten on ten in taste and faultless presentation. Seafood range of appetizers are a must try

as well—smoked salmon accompanied by a bread platter and variety of cheese each and every one of it has a trickling sensation down the taste buds. Chef Ivan Sanchez loves the cosmopolitan city of Dubai, having years of experience in high class restaurants now serves even more perfection at the Ember Grill Lounge.

There is not much variety for the vegetarians on the menu. The selection is of meat, seafood, and chicken. All items are grilled so the calorie-conscious people can have their day off. Grilled Prime Sirloin, a beef steak with a thin line of fat on top, well cooked with sautéed wild mushrooms as per my order came with the perfect cutlery for the steak. Served in just the right presentation, the crispness of the fresh summer salad is simply amazing and a great contrast to the hard tender steak.

Open six days a week, this exclusive lunch is only offered on weekends, so better to make reservations beforehand.

The Mexican Head Chef Ivan Sanchez, has 10 years of culinary experience starting from a ship’s kitchen as a helper. He went to a university, earned a gastronomy degree and now is the executive chef for The Address Hotel Dubai Mall and its restaurants.

“I like bakery and pastries and my main focus is on the detail and finesse,” he says.

Amazing service and warm staff added to the wonderful experience. Glasses topped up continually, plates cleared and chairs pulled out every time you make a dash for just one more bit of the watermelon shots poured into the fragile test tubes. Conclude the discovering journey with the delicately designed desserts.

My favorites among the carefully chosen variety is a thin slice of avocado custard topped with seeds of green tea, which gives rushes of sensations of taste on every single bite.

The cost of the lunch is not heavy in the wallet as per the serving and the portion of the meal served. Ember Grill, a wonderful hangout weekend lunch with your girls and old friends, with tantalizing and filling lunch, is a must to visit.

Though the aspect of the designer lunch is confused in the entire experience.

Travel Arabia I 45

A selection of the best Asian cuisines in the city Delight yourself in a scrumptious meal while enjoying a magnificent view of Dubai at Kris The first thing you notice as you step into the impressive entrance of the Kris Restaurant at the Park Regis Hotel is the attention-grabbing views of the city laid out in front of you which wrap around almost 360 degrees of the outlet.

The second thing you notice is that, despite its fairly large footprint, the restaurant is quite cosy thanks to the low wooden beamed ceilings and warm accents throughout. It seats 150 covers in the restaurant and a further 100 in the adjoining wine bar, and is designed to give diners the best uninterrupted views of Dubai from its lofty perch on the 19th floor Opening its doors just last month, Kris is an Asian restaurant with a difference which becomes evident once you open the menu. It is extensive but thoughtfully broken up into the different countries of Thailand, China, India, Malaysia and Japan in both the starters and the main course sections.

Choosing dishes from such an expansive menu is not easy though. The sheer variety of creative dishes which range from the classic Goan fish curry to the exotic-sounding black pepper prawns

46 Travel Arabia

with sun-dried pineapple will have diners changing their minds several times before making a selection.

However, the must-try signature dishes are the Peking Duck from the specialties of China section, a generous portion of crackling duck served with piquant hoisin sauce, and the braised lamb shank that is slow cooked with lemongrass,

‘I am constantly looking at ways to make our guests happy,’ Executive Chef Poonsak galangal, cardamom and coconut milk.

Executive Chef Poonsak, who is from Thailand, spent months creating this menu with much tasting and tweaking of the dishes until he achieved what he believes to be a selection of the best of the best Asian food in the city.

“Dubai has changed in recent years, diners have become much more sophisticated in their dining habits, demanding good food and good value,” he says. “I am constantly looking at ways to make our guests go away happy when they have

eaten my food and so I spend a lot of time in the restaurant talking to diners, getting their feedback. It is important that we give them a unique experience.”

Chef Poonsak uses only fresh ingredients in his dishes and sources his spices from all over Asia. The cinnamon comes from Malaysia, the chillies from India and the lemongrass fresh from Thailand. He also blends the spices himself the oldfashioned way, with a pestle and mortar, because he says it releases the aromas thus adding distinctive flavours to the dishes.

The restaurant’s name, Kris, is taken from a type of dagger indigenous to Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Brunei and India. The Kris is considered to have an essence or presence with some blades possessing good luck and others possessing bad. There is a beautiful example of one showcased in a glass case just by the entrance – easy to miss on the way in with the spectacular views that grab the attention.

Kris is definitely one of those restaurants that diners will want to go back to time and time again just to experience as many of the dishes as possible.

Conveniently located in the heart of metropolitan Dubai.

Deluxe Studio, One & Two Bed Room Apartments 24 hour Housekeeping, Security and Laundry Services Fully equipped kitchen with washer and dryer Digital safe deposit box in all rooms Wireless internet access in all rooms 24 hour Coffee Shop Valet and Covered parking facility Airport transfers and visas available on request Tour Packages and car rental services on request Gymnasium, Rooftop Swimming Pool, Jacuzzi, Sauna and Steam

Waves

at Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa There is no doubt that this restaurant is proud of its roots, it was originally designed as a seafood concept but has gradually added in other dishes to appeal to a wider clientele.

Here in the UAE we are very spoiled for choice when it comes to restaurant settings but there can be nowhere quite as peaceful and relaxing to enjoy dinner as an open-air cabana right on the beach.

While it may be a little off the beaten track to go for dinner, the Waves restaurant at the Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa is a must for those fortunate enough to be staying at this delightful resort.

Diners have the choice of the cool interior of the thatched roof restaurant with its open kitchens and high ceiling, the shaded patio wrapped around the building or the romantic cabanas on the beach.

The obvious choice, of course, is the romantic cabanas with their gauzy drapes that flutter gently in the evening breeze and strung lanterns that make for a beautiful place to relax over dinner.

This outlet is executive chef Tarek’s

48 I Travel Arabia

passion and it is evident in the menu which fuses the best Asian dishes with the simplicity of seafood caught locally and cooked to order. There is no doubt that this restaurant is proud of its roots, it was originally designed as a seafood concept but has gradually added in other dishes to appeal to a wider clientele. The fish is all sourced from Dibba, apart from the lobster which comes direct from Oman, and each evening the waiter brings out a platter of fish for diners to choose from should they be tempted to order the seafood dishes.

Chef Tarek’s philosophy is straightforward. “Keep it simple” he says. “Food does not need to be overly complicated.

Let the flavours speak for themselves but be creative” And that it exactly what the dishes do at Waves. Supersized king prawns sit alongside a sweet and juicy half lobster

flanked by flaky hammour and tasty morsels of calamari to make a very appetising seafood platter. Non seafood lovers need not worry as the steaks are also chosen and cooked with the same care and attention and also come highly recommended.

Always striving to impress diners, Waves also has a romantic dinner menu designed to showcase the freshest ingredients.

It begins with a medley of shrimps, lobster and zucchini or an uncomplicated dish of grilled asparagus and baby leeks.

Showing off his culinary excellence chef ’s char broiled Angus beef fillet and the panfried salmon with lobster sauce cannot fail to impress. Dessert lovers will want to sample the warm chocolate cake served with ice-cream that is a house speciality.

So if you are planning a special event or just fancy a night away, a trip out to Fujairah could be just the solution.

Welcome to the

Marina View Hotel Apartments It means a warm welcome, a unique holiday experience and a sophisticated style of living.

Marina View prides itself in exceeding customer expectations and is dedicated to setting a new standard in the hospitality industry. Marina View Hotel ranges from homely to luxurious, but you can always be assured of generous hospitality.

Marina View Hotel is a luxury residency located in the heart of Dubai Marina, fully furnished by high stylish decorations. The hotel’s modern architecture is easily spotted against the Dubai sky line with easy access to, Dubai’s key business hubs, leisure and shopping.

Marina View Hotel Apartments, P.O Box 454745, Dubai, UAE Phone: +971 4 4571000, Fax: +971 4 4570999 Email: reservations@marinaviewhotel.com, bookings@marinaviewhotel.com Website: www.marinaviewhotel.com

Features Ramadan feast

Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort’s treat

‘Our Food & Beverage team has created special offerings for individuals, families and groups.’

—Ashraf Helmy, General Manager

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During the holy month of Ramadan, Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort, an upmarket Moroccan-style property in the heart of Fujairah, invites you and your family to savour traditional Arabic cuisine in a truly Arabic setting at the property’s award-winning outlets.

Celebrate Iftar at Al Majlis Restaurant with a carefully selected set menu of authentic Arabic and Oriental dishes for AED99 per person. Enjoy a traditional atmosphere that enhances the soul while sampling your favourite dishes and Arabic drinks from 7:00pm to 8:00pm.

After the Iftar, feel the tranquility of the evening in an outdoor Arabic lounge seating at Al Moltaqa Lounge, where you can listen to traditional Arabic oud music daily from 8:00pm. Relax in an Oriental and Moorish décor surrounding while sampling a variety of Lebanese mezzeh and Arabic sweets and the finest selection of Ramadan drinks to compliment the night.

To complete your Ramadan day, indulge discreetly in the Sohour menu till 1:00am for AED85 per person. Order specially selected and created Sohour menu served with Ramadan drinks, either in the comforts of your room or at Al Moltaqa Lounge.

Ashraf Helmy, General Manager, Miramar Al Aqah, said, “Ramadan is a time to share and enjoy your blessings with your family and friends. Our Food & Beverage team has created special Ramadan offerings for individuals,

families and groups. Enjoy the Iftar with your family at our Al Majlis Restaurant or enjoy shisha with your friends while listening to the traditional Oud music at Al Moltaqa Lounge. We invite you to visit the property throughout the month of August for a truly memorable Ramadan.”

Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort is located on the east coast of the UAE in Fujairah. This beautiful five-star resort is about 150km from Dubai and about 45km away from Fujairah National Airport. The hotel overlooks the sea and has its own 200-metre long private beach with the stunning Hajaar Mountains forming the backdrop. Free shuttle buses are provided to and from Dubai and Fujairah City.

Giveaway

InterContinental Abu Dhabi rolls out a great offer Wondering where to go for Suhour and Iftar?

Selections, InterContinental Abu Dhabi’s main restaurant located on the 3rd floor where breakfast and lunch are served, will be having a special Iftar treat.

Open from 7:30pm – 10:30pm for Iftar, enjoy a buffet for AED 195 net (adults) and AED 100 net (for kids six to 12 years old).

In addition to the extensive Iftar buffet, the price also includes eight types of different Ramadan juices, water and soft drinks, four types of dates and dried fruits on the table, and live tea and coffee station including Arabic coffee.

During Iftar the ambiance will be set by kanoon player, performing throughout the evening.

Selections is also open 6.30am – 10.30am, with full breakfast buffet at AED 130 net; and 12.30pm – 3pm, for full lunch buffet at AED 155 net or a la carte menu Meantime, Chamas, which is open daily, 8pm until midnight, will serve its churrascaria buffet at AED 255 or free flow of caipirinhas at AED 295.

For its part, Belgian Café, which is also open daily from 9:30am – 7pm will be serving sandwiches, snacks and nonalcoholic beverages from its Piano Lounge menu. Belgian Café will serve its full menu from 7pm – 11:30pm; brews will be served from 7:30pm onwards.

Piano Lounge will be closed during the day. However, the menu will be available at Belgian Café throughout the day.

Chamas.

Selections Restaurant

From 7:30pm – 3am, the lounge will have snacks, refreshments and live kanoon music. Alcohol will not be served in the Piano Lounge during Ramadan) Toll free number for Restaurant Reservations: 0800- IC-DINE (0800- 423463) or email dine@icauh.ae.

Meantime, treat your family to a rewarding break at InterContinental Abu Dhabi, starting from AED 500 per

room including breakfast or Suhour (Iftar not applicable). Or upgrade to a suite for AED 900 per room. Offer valid for GCC residents only, until 10th September 2011. Terms and conditions apply. For further information/to make a booking, please contact our Reservations Department: reservations@icauh.ae or call +971 2 693 5154/5155. Visit www. intercontinentalabudhabi.com

InterContinental Hotel Abu Dhabi

Travel Arabia I 51

Stay and shop V. Five Continents Hospitality Group If you are looking for a short or long term high quality accommodation in the UAE but don’t want it to cost the Earth then V. Five Continents branded fully equipped serviced apartments will be the perfect choices for you and your loved ones. Arabian Suites and Khalidia Hotel Apartments in Dubai and Mourouj Hotel Apartments in Abu Dhabi will provide you with the perfect “home away from home” feeling whether you are planning your stay for a few nights, several weeks or even longer, having the space, comfort and convenience of a real home.

Wishing to explore the ostentatious Dubai which continuously offers highend shopping, delightful sunny weather, gourmet food and beautiful untouched public beaches you are very welcome to stay in Arabian Suites or in Khalidia Hotel Apartments.

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Located conveniently in the heart of Bur Dubai the 65 suites Arabian Suites is extremely close to many important landmarks of the city such as Burjuman Center, New Gold Souk, Khaleej Centre, Wafi City, Sheikh Zayed Road, World Trade Centre as well as Dubai Museum.

The newly built contemporary property with its extremely spacious suites and various kinds of amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, high-speed Internet, LCD TV, IDD telephone offers you an ideal destination for a short break or long term stay at an incredible price. With the extensive selection of luxurious amenities including laundry, valet and daily housekeeping service, 24 hours – security - Cable TV - Room Service as well as 2 outdoor terrace swimming pools, 2 fully equipped gyms and 2 sauna and steam rooms you will enjoy maximum comfort,

personal privacy, increased flexibility and attractive financial savings.

In Khalidia Hotel Apartments in Dubai you have a choice of 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms fully furnished spacious apartments with all of the amenities that provide great freedom and maximum privacy including own balcony, en suite bathroom equipped with phone, own modern television set, electronic safe and IDD telephone as well as large sofas and a dining table with 6 chairs.

Planning to visit Abu Dhabi, the cosmopolitan centre of business and tourist attractions, Mourouj Hotel Apartments will be your perfect destination to stay whether you are on a business trip or on vacation. Located near Madinat Zayed Shopping Mall, only 3 km away from the famous Abu Dhabi Corniche and 30 km from Abu Dhabi International Airport the property provides an extremely easy access to all sightseeing, entertainment and shopping facilities. After a hard day whether it is full of business meetings or sightseeing tours you can take care of your body and soul in our state – of –the- art health club, indulge in the sauna or steam room and enjoy pampering Ayurvedic treatments in the exclusive Spa. During summer you can enjoy the outstanding warm hospitality in Khalidia and Mourouj Hotel Apartments at very special rates starting from AED 375 for one bedroom suite. Free of charge valet parking service, late check out up to 3:00 pm on availability is accessible as well as two and three bedrooms for families.

This amazing rate is valid until 28th August 2011, subject to applicable service charge and tax and is limited to a number of rooms only.

Reservations are subject to availability so you should take advantage of this special offer and book now; directly on mhapt@eim.ae (Abu Dhabi) or reservations@khalidiahotel.ae (Dubai) or contact the hotels on +971 2 641 3555 (Abu Dhabi) and +971 4 228 2280 (Dubai)

Melting Pot A CORNUCOPIA OF THE GOOD TIMES AHEAD

All here!

Crowne Plaza Dubai.

Ramadan special offers including Eid, Iftar, Suhour and summer packages for dining, spa treatments, golf and a lot more!

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Al Bustan Rotana Dubai Choices Restaurant Lavish daily Iftar buffet @ AED 145*.

Special exclusive Iftar banquet package starting @ AED 130* per person, for a minimum of 30 persons. Reserve early and get a special rate as bookings made before 31st July, 2011 will get additional 15% discount. For inquiries: 04-7054818. * Prices are inclusive of 10% municipality fee and 10% service charge

Al Murooj Rotana Dubai Pergolas Restaurant Diverse Ramadan buffet from Arabic Mezza to grills and kabsa. Exclusive live stations. AED 149 inclusive of 10% Municipality fees and 10% service charge.

Inquiries: (04) 3211111

Armani Hotel Dubai Armani Ballroom Group Iftar or Suhour gatherings start @ 235 per person Inquiries: http://dubai.armanihotels.com Email: info@armanihotels.com; Tel: 04 888 3444 or 800 ARMANI (276264)

Arabian Ranches Golf Club Baker-Finch Room Corporate Iftar Packages Sunset – 11:30pm Choices of buffet menus, with prices ranging from AED 120 to AED200 per person (min. 25 people and max.100) Inquiries: +971 4 366 3000 Ext. 307 or email events@arabianranchesgolf.ae

Atlantis, The Palm Asateer Iftar meal at AED165. Children three years, FREE; children between three and 12 years, AED 80 Suhour starts 9pm. A la carte menu @ 165.

Kaleidoscope Iftar buffet for AED 185. Live cooking stations at interactive kitchens. Mediterranean menu with North African and Indian specialty dishes.

Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi Essence Restaurant Iftar buffet @ 165 (Subject to 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee.)

Traditional and international delights.

Inquiries: +971 (0) 2 697 9121

City Seasons Hotel Muscat Seasons Restaurant Iftar buffet from sunset till 10pm.

An array of sumptuous and traditional

Al Majlis-Madinat Jumeirah

cuisines @ OMR 12.

Sohour from 3am till sunrise.

Culinary delights@ OMR 7.

Check website for details

City Seasons Hotel City Seasons Suites Dubai New Seasons Restaurant Iftar buffet @ AED 79.

Set menu featuring traditional favourites @AED 65. Special discounts for bookings of eight or more. Check website for details

Crowne Plaza Dubai Al Tannour Iftar served daily. Wide selection of cuisines with a strong Oriental and Arabic influence. Live cooking stations.

AED 99. All soft drinks and Shisha are at additional cost. Children have the discounted rate of AED 45 with children below six years old eating for free!

Inquiries: 800-276963 (CROWNE) Email fnbreservations@cpdxb.com.

Dusit Thani Dubai Al Wasl Ballroom Traditional Arabic cuisine.

Smaller parties and individuals can enjoy Iftar on the 24th floor, with similar cuisine plus breathtaking views of the city at night from AED 149. Check website for details.

Dusit Princess City Centre Dubai JoyBean Restaurant Set menu served à la carte @ AED 39 The Chill Arabic buffet @59 The hotel will also be serving an Eid Al Fitr brunch at AED 79 with unlimited soft drinks flow. Check website for details.

Holiday Inn Dubai – Al Barsha The Gem Garden Iftar Buffet with Ramadan drinks from dusk till 9pm.

AED120/person

Al Sarab Sunset to 1am A la Carte Suhour ( set menu for groups) Inquiries: www.holidayinn.com / www. hiabarsha.com

Grand Millennium Al Wahda (In partnership with Alhan Restaurant.)

Ramadan buffet @ 160 excluding 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee. Bookings for 10 people are offered an additional two eating for free. Trio of Syrian musicians on Oud, violin, and percussions to perform. Valet parking will be free of charge for all visitors of the Ramadan tent.

Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant Sumptuous buffet of traditional Ramadan favourites and delicious Emirati dishes.

Private Iftars for corporate events or gettogethers.

Iftar at your doorstep, from Laylati, the authentic Emirati kitchen. The hotel also offers people to help to the underprivileged with Al Sa’em (Charity) boxes with two menus on offer priced at AED 20 and AED 25. Inquiries: rafat.kazi@hyatt.com

Madinat Jumeirah Al Majlis Iftar AED 195 per person, inclusive of all food and beverages.

Children between 4 and 12 years get 50% discount; below 4 years dine for free.

Suhour Children between 4 and 12 years get 50% discount; below 4 years dine for free.

Private Suhour Bookings • VIP Private Majlis for 30 guests and 15 guests are sold at a minimum of AED 150 per person, for seating from 9.00 pm onwards.

• Guests pay the value of the total Majlis seating capacity as a minimum guarantee, prepaid with a credit card guarantee.

• VIP Private Majlis must be occupied

Travel Arabia I 55

Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi Marakesh Restaurant Shisha with chess or backgammon in the Layali Al Alfeya Tent from 8pm till Suhoor.

Oudh player. A la carte menu.

The Lobby Lounge will open after Iftar each night. *Excluding 16% service charge and tourism tax.

Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai

The Palace – The Old Town

from 9.00 pm until 2.00 am and if not occupied from 9.00 pm, the per person rate increases to AED 300.

• A special early booking offer is available for group bookings above 200 guests, made before 31 July 2011, entitling the booker to a 10% discount.

Inquiries: Visit jumeirah.com/ramadan, or call +971 4 3666730.

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Imperium Iftar buffet @ AED 175 till 8:30pm Inquiries: Visit jumeirah.com/Ramadan, or call +971 4 4530444.

Plaj Majlis Suhour 8pm – 3am Marquee for 160 people.

AED 250 Traditional oud player Inquiries: Visit jumeirah.com/ramadan, or call +971 4 4530444.

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates Sezzam Iftar buffet @ AED 129 Grand Ski Chalet Private Iftar @ AED 395 per person for groups of up to 12 people.

Inquiries: +971 4 3410000 or visit www. kempinski.com/dubai

Kempinski Hotel Ajman Ramadan Tent Sunset till 3.00am (last order 2.30am) Iftar Buffet Rate: AED 125 per person (for group of 1 – 10 persons) AED 120 per person (for group of 11 – 20 persons) AED 115 per person (for group of 21 persons and above). Inquiries: +971 6714 5555 or www.kempinski.com/ajman.

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Fountain Restaurant An array of international cuisines @ AED 110 inclusive of Ramadan juices and water.

Chutneys Restaurant Iftar buffet with a selection of traditional North Indian dishes @ AED 85. Like us on Facebook and get 20% discount on the Iftar for a maximum booking of eight persons.

Inquiries: 04 310 43 51.

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach The Talk Restaurant Iftar and Sohour buffets. Vibrant live cooking stations and refreshing juice. Live oud. AED 139 per person and AED 120 per person for a group of 10 or more.

Traditional henna painting and live Arabic music are also on the menu as well as Shisha for AED 70 pool side Inquiries: 04 449 8888 or email talk. jumeirahbeach@moevenpick.com.

Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek Al Mansour Dhow Special five-star Iftar Ramadan cruise featuring a sumptuous International and Arabic buffet. Prices range from AED 110 to AED 140 per person for a minimum booking of 30 persons.

Inquiries: 04 - 205 7333 or 7444.

Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman Orchid Restaurant Sumptuous Iftar feast for AED 99.

During the first 10 days of Ramadan, the property will give guests a voucher for 20 percent discount which they can use on their next visit to enjoy the iftar buffet.

Inquiries: +971 6 7031111.

Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi Al Khaima Ramadan Tent Sohour 8pm – 2am Special menu for groups of 15 or more.

Minimum consumption charge of AED 75 applies (excluding shisha).

Inquiries: 02 509 8555. Email restaurantreservations.slad@shangr-la.com.

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers

Fully air conditioned Ramadan Tent on the beach for Iftar and Suhoor. Refreshing juices such as Kamaradin, Farkadeh and Laban. Buffet. Live cooking stations.

Oud and Daf. Kids activities. Camel ride.

You can also donate to the Dar Al Ber Society if you opt to add AED 5 to your Inquiries: 04 315 321

Sheraton Deira Hotel The Connections Sumptuous Iftar for just AED 109. Win in weekly draws for meal and stay vouchers.

Arabic specialties such as Lamb Brain, Lamb Tongue, Basturma, Freekie Lamb, Kebsa chicken, Sea Food Kebsa and more.

Inquiries: 2688888 Ext. 5321; Ext. 5306 (for corporate and group bookings.

Taj Palace Hotel Dubai Ballroom Iftar buffet @ AED 105. Traditional lamb and chicken dishes.

Check website for details.

Towers Rotana Dubai Flavours on Two Daily themed Iftar buffet for AED 135 inclusive of 10% service charge and 10% municipality fees.

Book a table for 10 and 2 people EAT for FREE. Early bird discounts and gift vouchers. Inquiries: 04-3122202 or reservations email fb.towers@rotana.com

The Palace – The Old Town Ewaan All-Day Dining Restaurant Sunset – 9pm Iftar Buffet starts at AED 190 Souhour 10pm to 2am; Friday & Saturday 10pm to 3am. A la carte from AED 150.

Ewaan Terrace Eid buffet. First day of Eid from 12.30pm to 4pm. AED 255.

Inquiries: 04 4287806 or email Dine@ thepalace-dubai.com

Villa, Rihab & Rimal Rotana Moka Café Iftar buffet Villa Rotana for AED 89 Rihab Rotana for AED89 Rimal Rotana for AED65 Inquiries: Villa Rotana T: +971 (0)4 321 6111 Rihab Rotana T: +971 (0)4 294 0300 Rimal Rotana T: +971 (0)4 268 8000

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during your stay**.

For her • 50% discount on treatments at Bodylines Wellness Centre.

• 50% discount on hairdresser services at Moods Beauty Saloon.

• Complimentary meal in any of the F&B outlets (including room service) when dining together with husband. *The rate is subject to 10% service charge and 6% Tourism fee. **Upgrade to Suite is subject to availability.

Inquiries: rotanatimes.com or call (0)2 657 3333 and quote SH7.

Rixos Belek Royal Premium Suite.

The Ritz-Carlton Doha

SPECIAL PACKAGES Amwaj Rotana Dreamy Days- Dreamy Rates!

For only AED 369 per person, come and stay in one of our stunning classic sea view rooms, enjoy a lavish buffet breakfast at Horizon and choose from a variety of tasty experiences for your lunch or dinner.

Dine around the world with Horizon offering you an International buffet, or choose our set menu at Benihana the famous Japanese steak house, or at Rosso the Italian restaurant.

Inquiries: +971 (0)4 428 2000 or email: reservation.amwaj@rotana.com quoting: Sum2011 or visit rotana.com.

Crowne Plaza Dubai – Deira Sizzling Summer Splash Stay at the Crowne Plaza Dubai- Deira between 1st June and 31st August 2011 and enjoy complimentary passes to the most exciting waterparks in Dubai and shop till you drop at the major malls.

For bookings and more information: Please call +971 4 262 5555 email: cpdeira.reservations@ihg.com

or visit www.crowneplaza.com/deira

ibis Hotel Summer promotion rate starts from USD 33 and is valid from 1st June to 29th August, 2011. It is a perfect time to escape the city and indulge in short weekend breaks in Amman, Jordan; Muscat, Oman; and Kuwait or better still pamper yourself with short city breaks in the UAE. All sales conditions for this offer on www. ibishotel.com

Park Rotana Abu Dhabi It Takes 2 This Summer Valid till Aug. 31, 2011 If you’re a businessman traveling to Abu Dhabi, bring your spouse along and we’ll offer this package: For the two of you • AED 499* per room per night with a minimum of 2 nights stay.

• Enjoy the luxury of our spacious Suite at extra AED 99** per night.

• Complimentary upgrade to a Suite should you or your spouse have birthday

Ramadan Retreat Package Starts at QAR 985 per room, per night in a Single Deluxe Room and includes overnight stay as well as the choice of either Iftar at The Lagoon restaurant or Sohour at the tent in Al Wosail ballroom. Subject to rate and room availability at the time of booking. Advance reservation is required.

Inquiries: (974) 4484 8000 or visit www. ritzcarlton.com/doha.

Rixos Villas Premium Belek Villa and Suites Ramadan Package Aug. 1 – 30, 2011 Iftaar meals prepared by private Chef.

Private butler. Special Ramadan menu at Villa Millionaire Club. Tailor-made ala carte menus prepared by nutritionists.

Private Iftaar at the Villa decks. Ladies SPA Hammam. Gents SPA Hammam. Gents indoor swimming pool. Ladies indoor swimming pool. A rich variety of Sohour meals.

Villa prices: starting from 1800 € per villa per day all inclusive.

Suites Prices: starting from 285 € per person per day all inclusive.

Inquiries and bookings: www.rixos.com.

ROOM DISCOUNTS JW Marriott Hotel Dubai Twenty percent discount off normal per night rates for stays beginning June 16, 2011. Pay with a Visa card and book your stays at least seven days in advance.

Subject to availability on a limited basis

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through September 5, 2011. Non-refundable. Inquiries: www.jwmarriottdubai. com.

Asiana Hotel

Special Ramadan Rates For AED 333 enjoy a Superior King

or Twin room inclusive of high speed internet Rates valid from Aug. 1 – 31, 2011 Inquiries: +971 4 2387777 F: +971 4 2387776 or email us at reservations@ asianahoteldubai.com

SPA oils is drizzled onto your body and each area is gently yet firmly massaged taking note of the areas of stress and tension.

Inquiries: 02 6979333

Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites

Special children’s membership.

June 1, 2011 – Aug. 31, 2011.

Use of rooftop swimming pool.

AED 500 per child (4 -15 years).

Inquiries: T: +971 (4) 6077755, F: +971 (4) 6077198, Email: mhrs.dxbae.recreation@marriott.com.

Saray Spa, Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites.

Saray Spa July – Aug. 2011 Original Price Special Price Fruit Enzyme Facial (60 mins) AED 325 AED 230 Traditional Swedish Aroma Massage (60 mins)

AED 300 AED 200 De-Stress Back Massage (30 mins) AED 220 AED 120 Lemon with Mint Body Polish (45 mins) AED 290 AED 190 Inquiries: www.marriott.com

Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi

JW Marriott Dubai

Zen the Spa Rasul Mud Extravaganza. Buy 1 get 1 complimentary.

Candle Wax Massage (First in Abu Dhabi and new at Zen the Spa). 60 min/ 90min, warm plant wax combined with essential

Griffins Health Club June 1, 2011 – Aug. 31, 2011 Buy a 12-month membership, get 3 months free.

AED 3800 for singles AED 6000 per couple (married)

CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La Sunlight Soother. A refreshing blend of cucumbers and yoghurt with aloe vera.

Scalp massage. Hair cream bath.

AED 500 Inquiries: 02 5098900/8907 or email chi. abudhabi@shangri-la.com.

and access to the driving range, chipping and putting green before your round of golf. Terms and conditions apply.

Summer Golf Membership AED 4,750 for single and AED 7,750 for families Benefits include 17 days advance booking

privilege; member-preferred tee times with special green fees for accompanying guests; and free use of the practice facilities, pool, gym and floodlit Par 3 Academy Course, and access to the Angsana Spa along with 10% discount on treatments.

The Address Dubai Marina The Spa Share the spirit of Ramadan with a friend, relax and unwind with a 50-minute treatment and receive the second one of same or less value at 65% discount.

Inquiries: +971 4 4367777 or email meet. dubaimarina@theaddress.com Promo valid Aug. – Sept. 2011

Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi

GOLF The Address Montgomerie Dubai Beat the Heat June 1, 2011 – Sept. 30, 2011 World class golf for AED 200 per player and beat the heat between 10am and 2pm, five days a week. Available from Sunday to Thursday and inclusive of shared golf cart

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Proud to be SAFARI LEADERS

E n j o y

t h e

t h r i l l

a n d

f u n

o f

DESERT SAFARI

Programme Includes: Dune Bashing Sand Boarding & Camel Riding BBQ Dinner - Arabic Tea & Coffee Soft Drinks & Refreshments Photograph in Local Dress Henna Painting & Tattoos Enchanting Belly Dancing Show Sheesha (Hubbly-Bubbly) & lots more entertainment throughout the evening

Dhs. 200/-

Per Person

Timing: Pick up: 3:00 - 3:30pm - Drop off: 9:00 - 9:30pm Pick-up & drop-back facility included

HATTA MOUNTAIN SAFARI

Programme Includes: Red Dunes Safari & Sand Boarding - Sight Seeing to various scenic locations Visit to Carpet Market & Heritage Village - Hatta Mountain Safari - Chance to Dip or Dive in fresh water pools - Lunch at 5 Star Hatta Fort Hotel Transfers from all the hotels & residences in Dubai & Sharjah Timing: 8:00am to 2:30pm

Dhs. 300/-

Per Person

DHOW CRUISE DINNER Programme Includes: Continental dinner, Soft drinks, Tea and Coffee, Soft Music in cozy ambiance, Fully airconditioned lower deck, Open air upper deck, Pick-up and drop-back facility included (Deira & Bur Dubai Only) Per Person Cruising Time: From 8:30pm to 10:30pm

Dhs. 150/-

S P E C I A L I Z E D I N O R G A N I Z I N G S O C I A L & C O R P O R AT E G E T TO G E T H E R S , B I RT H D AY S & A N N I V E R S A R I E S .

24 Hrs. Reservation E-mail: optdubai@emirates.net.ae Web: www.opdubai.com

ISO 9001:2008 Certified

Around Town YOU DON'T MISS ANYHING, THE EVENTS AT YOUR DOORSTEPS

Passionize your life!

Personally one of my favorite meet-up groups, a fun-loving way of exploring one’s self and distinguishing the difference between hobbies and passion. The concept of the group is working towards creation of an action-based community actively working towards the establishment and development of their passion to a point where one can support their families by doing something they love. The group currently has 200 enthusiasts who have the desire to change the process of the unwanted lifestyle and aim high as they want it their way to convert their passion into income-generating ventures. Dancers, actors, painters, bikers, filmmakers, nurses… everyone else is free to join this group .Meet-Ups are organized every alternative Saturday. http://www.meetup.com/ passion/

new-and-overwhelmed. www.meetup.com/ dubai-new-in-town

Dubai Business Women A very helpful and a productive group for the working ladies of Dubai. The group is mentored by Ms. Sahar Moussely, an experienced businesswoman. She works to establish and boost women’s confidence for the various challenges faced in starting a new business.

The group has more than 100 members. All are welcome! http://www.meetup.com/DubaiBusiness-Women-Group/

Dubai Ultimate Relationships Here is one group to be joined by married individuals having problems with their relationships. Counseling is given on how to improve that through different ways like knowing the human needs. Helping you improve your relationship with your spouse by understanding his/her needs and how to satisfy these needs is the objective of this group which has over 50 members. http://www.meetup.com/ Dubai-ultimate-relationships/

Dubai Successful Communicators Having communication problems living in UAE’s multicultural society? This group enhances your communication and ability to improve the art of conversation . How successful an individual is in life depends on how clear he or she is able to convey the message.

To be a part of this and many other interesting groups visit www.meetup.com. and join the one that you think suits you the best. Happy socializing!

Meet-Up Dubai beats the social heat!

By Maryam Jabbar

Want to feel the social heat of the city?

Want to explore your passion in life? Thinking of joining a group of business women? Have an addiction to the art of “Ikebana”? So many questions and only one answer.

The Meet-Up Group of Dubai, the easiest way to learn about the metropolitan city of Dubai and make new friends. Who can join in? Anyone and everyone who has a craze for cycling, have an eye for art and sketching, or want to begin a journey of a life that we are passionate about, even people with a tangled relationship to be fixed.

All the interests and hobbies have a niche in these meet-ups. Invited to the regular meetups, getting an opportunity to meet like-minded people and be involved in various activities like scuba diving keeps the mind fresh and gives a seat to the newbies of the city.

Here are a few of the Meet-Up Groups and how they are busy in keeping you busy: Dubai New In Town Newcomers unite to get a feel of the city, from checking out the nightlife to indulging in a spot of desert drumming. The group is happy to organize small-scale events for the very-

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My Travel Bag My Travel Bag, a meeting point for today’s travellers’ interesting experiences, tips and ideas. In this edition, Wael Bittar, General Manager for Marketing at ART Marine, shares what he has in his Travel Bag with us. We’re waiting for yours, too! Send them at dass@kalimatgroup.com. If you have photos as well—be that of yourself or the sites—so much the better.

Depends where I am, if it is a beach holiday, the beach would be the first, if it is a city holiday it would be the streets. If I am in a new city, I would go to a coffee shop, sit down and absorb the city and chat with the waiters, you would be surprised how much you will learn about a city just sitting in its street cafes.

What excites you when traveling?

Seeing new places, people, food and cultures and that the fact that I am on a holiday

Positano, Italy

Does traveling alone tickle your fancy?

Yes, traveling alone has its own advantage. Being on your own time gives you the luxury of having able to stand in front of a statue or a tree and think rather than just point at it. Traveling alone also encourages you to meet the locals and other travelers and have a bigger adventure.

You got everything ready—bags, travel papers and all. What is the last thing you’d do before heading out?

Check if I have my passport and credit card again, and give a big hug to my cat.

Your choice What is your dream destination?

It depends, for a relaxing holiday it has to be the Maldives or the Cook Islands; for city holiday, Amsterdam always wins for its canals, art and funky hotels; for a party holiday, Beirut is great, Paris and Florence are always on my top list that I go back to just because I miss them; for a family holiday, Australia is always a winner. A ski holiday anywhere in the Alps from France to Switzerland to Austria is a completely different experience and I find it extremely relaxing.

Moscow

Damascus, mamlouka Hotel

Everything’s already packed except for five important items. Having only enough for three, which will you take with you?

The smallest ones, my ipod, my book and my walking shoes.

When was the last time you travel?

Where?

Just came back from Syria. Damascus

is an amazing place, culture, history and food, I love it as a tourist.

What drives you to travel? Food? Shopping? Sightseeing?

Understating different people and culture and seeing things that are different from what we are used too. Travelling for me is a way of expanding one’s horizon.

Name three places in the world that you’re really raring to see.

That would be Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires and any place where I can see the Aurora Borealis (the northern lights).

Some would immediately hit the pool or the spa or bar. Others would jump off the road with their videocams and digicams.

How about you?

64 I Travel Arabia

Zermat, Switzerland

Seychells

Experience Pure Spiritual Alchemy At Banyan Tree Al Wadi

We are just 45 minutes away from Dubai International Airport by car, and 20 minutes from the vibrant Ras Al Khaimah city centre.

Craving for a serene respite from the busy city, and wanting to escape the heat this Ramadan?

Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Ras Al Khaimah is the perfect getaway.

Indulge in a fantastic stay, spa & dining special. Book now.

Amazing Ramadan Special Offer • One night stay for two adults and two children under nine years old in Al Rimal or Beachfront Pool Villas • One hour complimentary use of Hydrotherapy Spa (Rainforest Experience) for two people • Choice of lunch or dinner in Al Waha Restaurant (Desert Resort) or Sands Restaurant (Beach Club) • Free-flowing Mini-bar • 30 percent discount on selected spa treatments • Complimentary childrens’ access to Kids Club.

ONLY AED 1395 per night per villa (for 2 persons) for Al Rimal or Beachfront Pool Villas.* * Valid from 1st to 30th August 2011. Rates are quoted in AED on a per villa per night basis, Rates are subject to 10% Service Charge. Other terms and conditions apply. Cancellation Policy: 24 hours prior notice will be requested to avoid 100 percent late cancelation charges. For bookings call +971 7 206 7777 or email:reservations-alwadi@banyantree.com.