Travel Arabia-June/July 2011

International Media Production Zone

June - July 2011, Volume 7, Issue 77

Tree Banyan A Al Wadi: in sojourn luxury

Destination 365

The Canaries

An exotic volcanic island chain

Whistle Stop

The paradise that is Maldives

PLACES YOU’D WANT TO BE

COOL SUMMER Things you’d want to do

Outside Arabia

Thailand adventures

Lalezar: Dubai’s first Anatolian culinary discovery at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

Morocco, a place of fun for the entire family.

MOSAIK

Welcome to Morocco, the land of contrasts. Vibrant and enchanting, where shadows meld with sunlight, and sky and sea kiss at the horizon. A land that for centuries has been romanticized by storytellers in their books. Weaving tales about its natural beauty, the warm hearts of its people and the elegance of its architecture. Not to mention its lazy beaches crawling on the Atlantic and Mediterranean seas, its snow-covered peaks, water springs and thick forests, as well as the stunning beauty of its old cities. Come, discover Morocco today. travel for real

101, Green Tower, Baniyas Street • PO Box : 64 109, Deira, Dubai • Emirates Arabes Unis • Tel : 042292394

www.visitmorocco.com

L

ocated in the heart of Deira, the Asiana Hotel Dubai offers an oasis of luxury in the city’s historical and financial centre. This Boutique property is a distinctive new landmark in one of the most important destinations in the Middle East.

Located a mere 10 minutes away from Dubai International Airport, the hotel is an ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers.

Furthermore, the hotel is just 20 minutes away from some of Dubai’s most prestigious attractions, such as The Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, making it convenient for guests who are on town on business, so also enjoy more of what the city has to offer.

Featuring 136 well-appointed rooms, including elegant suites, the Asiana Hotel combines Oriental splendor with ultra-modern amenities to provide our guests with the best sense of leisure and luxury. The hotel consists of 60 units of Superior King, 43 units of Superior Twin, 17 unites of Deluxe King, 6 units of Super Deluxe, 3 units of Junior Suite King, 6 units of Executive Suite King and 1 Presidential Suite King.

Amenities in each of the guest rooms include a 42” LCD TV, Work Desk, High speed internet access, Tea & Coffee Making Facilities and Mini Bar amongst others general facilities.

With 5 Asian themed restaurants, a Korean style barbeque on the rooftop, a lobby lounge, a bar as well as the biggest nightclub in Dubai, Asiana Hotel will offer you an array of venues to satisfy your every need. Boracay, the hotels nighclub, with its 3 storey high ceiling, 10,000 sq.ft 400 seating capacity, is a dynamic blend of art and technology, with a larger-than-life sound system with 48 enormous speakers, an explosion of special-effects lighting and secluded areas designed to hush the music and allow quiet conversation. The entertainment will astound you with 36 different musicians and entertainers as well as traditional Boracay snacks prepared by our 12 Filipino Chefs and delivered with exceptional Filipino Service.

Asian Themed Hotel in Middle East Dubai's first fully formed Asian themed hotel

"Essence of Asia in the Heart of Arabia" P.O. Box 4483, Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates T: +971 4 238 7777 F: +971 4 238 7776

www.asianahoteldubai.com

A few thousand-year-old recipes for eternal youth. You’ll find unanimous approval from your mind, body and soul. Do come for an experience that’s truly incredible!

For a free booklet on India, write to: India Tourism, P.O. Box 12856, Deira, Dubai, UAE. Tel: (9714) 2274848 Fax: (9714) 2274013 Website: www.incredibleindia.org E-mail: goirto@emirates.net.ae

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

133 Sheikh Zayed Road , P.O. Box 23335 Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 (4) 343 3333, Fax: +971 (4) 343 4222 E-mail: sales.dtdu@dusit.com, Website: dusitthanidubai.dusit.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

Majestic Hotel is a charming tower located at the very center of Dubai, surrounded by the true culture of the city. Boasting 252 rooms and suites over 28 floors, the hotel offers a magnificent view of the skyline.

The Majestic hotel aims to welcome and deliver five star treatment for a four star value to its guests from around the globe.

Mankhool Road Easy access from Sheikh Zayed Road P.O. Box 122235 Bur Dubai, Dubai, UAE Phone No. +971 4 3598888 Fax No. +971 4 3598889

Editor’s Note This month’s edition promises something for everyone, indeed.

One Night, Chronicles and Travel Bag sections. Like they say, every journey has a story, you might want to share yours, too.

It’s summer—hot and humid. Still figuring out where to go and what to do? Check out our summer special, a complete rundown of the best hotel deals here and abroad, from free rooms to irresistible packages for a great family getaway.

Also, we have made Melting Pot more reader-friendly where we segregated each area of hotel offerings—dining, rooms, spa, golf, weddings and miscellaneous—for a really pleasurable read.

We’ve made it more exciting, too, with spreads on water theme parks across Dubai, along with those in Turkey and Bahrain; as well as a separate section on summer festivals for those craving to go on shopping holidays.

Taste Travel has three features: Lalezar at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai’s first Anatolian restaurant is a delightful culinary discovery; Essence at Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi; and Sheraton Deira Hotel’s Executive Sous Chef Seosh Chandran.

Destination 365, so aptly called because it features year-round destinations, has the Canaries, an exotic volcanic island chain that has spring weather all year long.

Like we said—something for everyone.

Read on.

Outside Arabia, which is about places elsewhere around the world to spend holidays, runs the second of a three-part series about Thailand’s best spots.

Interestingly, we have started expanding our first-person-account travel story sections to have, in this edition, Whistle Stop, One Day

The Canaries, a volcanic island chain that has spring weather all year long, is featured in this edition’s Destination 365.

10 I Travel Arabia

Jojo Dass Editor

Visit

www.elakorea.com and win fablous trip for two to Korea

Each family gets one free halal food voucher in Seoul

P Box: 9488, Dubai, UAE, Ph: +9714 3312288, E-mail: knto@eim.ae, www.visitkorea.or.kr

24

It’s a cool summer, indeed!

In this issue are places you may want to be, and things you may want to do.

64

56

Summer thrills

Contents 18

Dining promos.

Room packages. Spa treatments. Wedding specials. Golf gigs… and more!

June-July 2011 28 32

48

60

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

P.10 P.14 P.16 P.18

WHISTLE STOP DESTINATION 365 OUTSIDE ARABIA ATTRACTIONS

P.28 P.32 P.36 P.40

TASTE TRAVEL FEATURES MELTING POT LIMELIGHT

P.42 P.48 P.56 P.62

June - July 2011, Volume 7, Issue 77

International Media Production Zone

22

on the cover The heat too much?

Jump in!

Tree Banyan A Al Wadi: in sojourn luxury

Destination 365

The Canaries

An exotic volcanic island chain

Whistle Stop

The paradise that is Maldives

PLACES YOU’D WANT TO BE

COOL SUMMER Things you’d wanT To do

Outside Arabia

Thailand adventures

Lalezar: Dubai’s first Anatolian culinary discovery at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

12 I Travel Arabia

Dubai has the Gulf ’s most number of waterparks—and state-of-art at that too.

Source : www.runningonemptymommy.com

Take YOUR FaMILY ON a SUMMeR BReak WHeRe THe PaST MeeTS THe FUTURe.

Give your family a summer break with InterContinental Abu Dhabi and wake up to a city with a fascinating past and a thrilling future. Our double rooms start at AED 500 net per room per night and suites from only AED 900 net per suite per night.

Children under 12 stay free or book an additional room at 25% off, with free access to the health club, beach, pool, late check-out and free shuttle bus to Marina Mall. The hotel has nine restaurants, so there are plenty of dining options.

Offer valid from 15th May 2011 until 10th September 2011, subject to availability. Valid only for nationals and residents of UAE & GCC.

For further information or to make a reservation call +971 2 693 5154/5155 or email reservations@icauh.ae intercontinentalabudhabi.com

In over 170 locations across the globe including Cairo • aMMaN • Beirut • DuBai

We Hear You..

THIS MONTH READERS TAKE A BREAK, RELAX AND SPEAK OUT

www.travel-arabia.com Publisher KGI 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

But who would go there?

Dear Editor Your spread about the different oases in the region was great. I was just wondering who would brave the scorching heat and travel miles outside the city to get there.

I love adventure and would certainly be one—no worries!

Farah Sayed Al Ain

Media House Indigo General Manager Shaza Sharaffdeen Editor Jojo Dass editor@travel-arabia.com Contributors Elaine Nettleton Jessica Prelle Julian Redman Maryam Jabbar Anna Burk 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

14 I Travel Arabia

Dear Ms. Sayed.

Exactly. The section was for those with adventure in mind, wanting to climb a mountain because it’s there, or wanting to camp in an oasis because, well, it’s there:) Editor

Mud Festival Dear Editor Thanks for running a piece about Korea’s celebrations and events in your May edition. One particular festivity that caught my interest is the Boryeong Mud Festival—more specifically, the mud bath, which sounds really exciting.

Maybe I’ll head to Korea this summer and try it.

Zandra Rorenbach Beirut Dear Ms. Rorenbach, Tell me all about it when you get back and we’ll run your story in our Chronicles. Fine?

Editor

Kudos!

Dear Editor.

I never thought we now have a lot of world-class spa facilities in Dubai until I came across your May edition’s Spa Journey, which, I think, was a well-thought out material and timely too.

Kudos!

Rajendra Singh Abu Dhabi

Dear Mr. Singh You should try any one of them.

Editor.

Dolce far niente indeed.

Dear Editor, Yes, you’re right. If any, Fujairah, the only UAE emirate situated on the Gulf of Oman in the country’s east instead of Persian Gulf and the only emirate that is almost totally mountainous, is the place to engage in dolce far niente, pleasant idleness.

The article about the emirate, which ran in your May edition’s Chronicles, was a good read—made me want to consider spending a weekend there.

Btw, may I send a piece too? I understand Chronicles is a first-person account. Like they say every travel has a story, and everybody should share theirs.

Rama Gopal Doha, Qatar Dear Mr. Gopal, Sure! Send us one or two. Don’t forget to attach photos too.

Editor.

It takes 2, this summer!

On your next business visit to Abu Dhabi, have your spouse as a travel companion to grab our very special offer.

For both… · 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 birthdays during your stay**.

For her… · 50% discount on treatments at Bodylines Wellness Centre. · 50% discount on selected services at Moods Beauty Saloon. · Complimentary meal in any of the F&B outlets (including room service) when dining together with husband.

The offer is valid until August 31, 2011 Terms & Conditions: *The rate is subject to 10% service charge and 6% Tourism fee. *The rate is per room per night and includes buffet breakfast. **Upgrade to Suite is subject to availability.

For reservations vist rotanatimes.com or call +971 (0)2 657 3333 and quote SH7 P.O. Box: 43377, Abu Dhabi, UAE. T: +971 (0)2 657 3333, F: +971 (0)2 657 3000, park.hotel@rotana.com

Let’s Do It this

Summer

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

14th Dubai Summer Surprises June 22nd, 2011 – Jul. 31st, 2011

Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), the region’s most awaited summer entertainment and shopping fiesta, is back again.

Exploring Dubai is so much fun during the summer. The region’s best shopping deals, world-class family entertainment, giveaways worth millions of dirhams, and a choice of the Middle East’s finest spas await visitors to Dubai during DSS. Around 50 luxury malls put out the best shopping promotions for shoppers while hosting entertainment shows throughout the summer.

Abu Dhabi Summer Fest June 15th, 2011 - July 30th, 2011 Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre The fourth “Summer in Abu Dhabi” festival, will be a month-long, fun-filled extravaganza of family-centric activities, award-winning international acts and shows, premium edutainment concepts and value-driven ticket, hotel and attraction deals.

Sharjah Summer Surprises June - July 2011 Ten weeks of fun and frolic, make the Sharjah Summer Surprises a great form of entertainment for all. It’s an exciting time with a cheerful atmosphere as the annual event not only add to the excitement of the shopping aspect but also puts the UAE emirate on the map of great shopping destinations attracting international, regional and local interest.

Modesh World June 20th, 2011 – Sept. 10th, 2011 Dubai Airport Expo Centre

The largest indoor edutainment venue in the region, offers a stunning collection of unique games and fun fare as well as a multitude of activities.

16 I Travel Arabia

Modesh visits Dubai Mall. (File photo)

Duckstein Festival June 24th ,2011 – July 3rd, 2011 Bremen, Germany

Art, culture and culinary delights are the themes for the festival which features a specially selected mix of live music from jazz and soul to lounge and tango. To top it off, a choice of excellent restaurant cuisine, ranging from Indian and African dishes through to mezze, falafel and flammkuchen, will showcase all the diversity of international cooking.

Inquiries: Bremer Touristik-Zentrale GmbH Service hotline: +49 (0)421 308 0010 Trade tel.: +49 (0)421 30800-26 or -27 or -28, fax: +49 (0)421 308 0025 Email: btz-verkauf@bremen-tourism.de Website: www.bremen-tourism.de

Oman’s Salalah Kharif Festival Salalah Kharif Festival is one of the popular Salalah festivals and events in the town during June and August. Running six weeks, it is one of the major events that

bring to the limelight the cultural aspect of Oman.

5th Liwa Date Festival July 1st , 2011 –July 15th, 2011 Al Gharbia, Liwa Held every year to celebrate the date palm harvest season, it’s an opportunity to explore the Liwa Oasis and sample the variety of fresh dates Inquiries: Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture & Heritage: +971 2 657 6171 E-mail: info@adach.ae

DJ Benny Benassi live!

June 10th, 2011 Dubai World Trade Center Arena Be part of the Peppermint Experience on its 7th birthday bash with the Grammy Award winning DJ Benny Benassi— founder and godfather of the Electro music genre.

Inquiries: Info +971 50 3571113 Info +971 50 1100678 Office +971 4 3326343 Fax +971 4 3326343 PO Box 117793 Dubai UAE.

Cover Story

The heat too much?

Jump in !

Source www.runningonemptymommy.com

18 I Travel Arabia

D

ubai has the Gulf ’s most number of waterparks— and state-of-art at that too.

Wouldn’t it be a shame if you haven’t taken family and friends to try one or all at least once? With 44 Celsius weather again becoming the order in these sultry summer days, to beat the heat is to jump right in.

Wild Wadi Waterpark Definitely one that should be on top of your list. Situated between Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Wild Wadi Waterpark is located on Jumeirah Beach Road, a leisurely half hour drive from Dubai International Airport.

Wild Wadi Waterpark was designed around a tale from Arabian folklore featuring Juha and his seafaring friend, Sinbad. The design and attention to detail, including characters to support the theme, led to a World Waterpark Association Industry Innovation Award for Outstanding Accomplishments in Design and Theming.

The park breaks new ground in that 13 of its 30 pulsating attractions are inter-connected, allowing thrill seekers of all ages to experience one adrenaline rush after another without ever leaving the water. Throughout the day the paths are sprayed with water to ensure that guests can walk barefoot around the park comfortably.

Among the main attractions is the eight gravity-defying Master Blasters that operate on a series of high-powered water jets, taking guests on an aquatic roller coaster ride.

The White-Water Wadi and Flood River Flyer are gravity-defying rides that rocket guests up to 15m above ground level. While the four-seater Family Master Blaster runs in a loop, the Summit Surge shoots guests to an uphill pool area and the Rushdown Ravine takes them on a 170m white-knuckle ride back down.

Meanwhile, the Wipe-out and Riptide Flow Riders offer the ultimate surfing experience with realistic wave effects which are great for body boarding, knee boarding or surfing., while the Breaker’s Bay, the region’s largest wave pool is fringed by a bank of palm trees and creates waves of up to 1.5m in four different configurations.

There also are, among others, Juha’s Journey (Lazy River), Tunnel of Doom,

Travel Arabia I 19

Photos courtesy of Wild Wadi Waterpark Dubai.

Jumeirah Sceirah, Tantrum Alley, and Burj Surj, a downhill slide to the bowls, where guests are hurtled into a spiralling spin and then dropped into the slide, ending with a screaming splash in the pool.

Inquiries: +971 4 348 4444 or info@ wildwadi.com

Atlantis The Palm Dubai Indeed water meets wonder in this majestic place, the focal point of Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island that has captured the world’s imagination with its magnificent scale and ingenuity.

Start the fun at Dolphin Bay, a fourand-a-half hectare lush tropical setting carefully modelled on their natural habitat to become home for the Atlantis dolphins. There are three vast lagoons where you can meet these graceful charismatic creatures through a choice of interactions.

Whether you’re a hotel guest or visiting for the day, the Dolphin Bay in Dubai offers an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Not to be missed is the Atlantis Dolphin Encounter (Shallow Water Interaction) Exclusive pod and private lagoon experiences are available upon request.

Please call +971 4 426 1030 for more information and bookings. All children under 12 years old must be accompanied by a paying adult. One adult per three children per interaction Meantime, enjoy the thrill of the largest and most exciting water park in the Middle East. Aquaventure Dubai is set in 42 acres overflowing with fun including Master Blasters, speedslide, rivers, rapids, Splashers children’s play area, lush tropi-

cal landscapes and a private beach. Guests staying at Atlantis have unlimited access to the water park.

There also is the Shamal, an inner tube ride that blasts you into the centre of the Ziggurat and guides you directly to The Plunge for your next adventure; the Surge, which starts at the top level of the Ziggurat--this spine-tingling inner tube ride is not for the faint at heart! Twisting and turning, at times in complete darkness this water-coaster takes riders on a thrilling journey. There also is the stinger, an uphill blast; and the Falls, where riders splash down to Rapids River on an exciting water-coaster.

Inquiries: +971 4 426 0000 or info@ atlantisthepalm.com

Dreamland Aqua Park Among the unique offers at Dream-

Atlantis The Palm Dubai

20 I Travel Arabia

land Aqua Park in Umm Al Quwain is waterside camping for those wanting an extraordinarily different sensational experience. The park doesn’t entertain any other accommodation facility.

Nearby hotels are only on a fiveminute drive in the neighboring Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah Emirate.

Dreamland Aqua Park is one of the largest water parks in the region; an oasis of palm trees and green turf in the desert of the Arabian Peninsula.

The 250,000 square meter water park has additional facilities for water polo, beach volleyball and go-karts. It has over 25 water rides and a free parking lot to accommodate up to 1,500 cars. Children with special needs get in for free while Fridays, Saturdays and holidays are reserved for families.

The fun include two Kamikaze rides, the Black Hole, four Twisting Dragons, Five Giant Slides, a lazy river, swimming pools, Space Bowl, Roaring volcano and much, much more.

Inquiries: +971 6 7681888 or visit http://www.dreamlanduae.com/

Ice Land Waterpark The Iceland water park is a 120-acre, complete family entertainment destination at Ras Al Khaimah.

The waterpark has been designed as a family destination to be unique in its offering with a versatile segmental appeal to tap a wide range of age, lifestyle and culture groups.

With a day design capacity of 10,000 persons, the Ice Land Water Park caters to the resident population as well as tourists.

Among attractions are the Penguin Falls where sacred mountains were formed along the Western borders of Ice Land, an evolutionary extension of the Hajar mountains with Mighty Water Falls; the Mount Fury, which is about the angst of nature raging “snow storms,” “thunderstorms,” “typhoons”, and “blizzards.”

Not to be missed is Mount Tempest, a movement of advancing glaciers causing mass of earth and rock debris to form mountain trails or “Glacier Sliders;” Mount Cyclone, an exciting escape from the mountains through “Dark Rapids Avalanche Panic” and “Arctic Hurricane;” and Artic Waves.

Of course, the park has Penguin Bay where visitors can get closer to these fun-loving creatures of the sea; as well as Great Tornado and Xyclone, actually a way of life at Ice Land Water Park.

Dreamland Aqua Park

Other rides include Snow River, where melting glaciers and tidal waters get to the low lands and the mountain stream is

tamed into a lazy river.

Inquiries: +971 7 244 7547 or info@ wowrak.org

Wahooo! Waterpark Bahrain The waterpark, which opened on March 22, 2009, has become a favorite among Bahrainis and travelers from around the region, Europe and the U.S. The 15,000-square meter aqua park

in the heart of Bahrain’s capital was built by the same team behind Ski Dubai, the world-famous indoor snow resort in the desert.

Wahooo! Waterpark Bahrain is an incredible mix of slides, chutes and rising rapids in the largest temperature-controlled waterpark in the region. Among the many attractions is the exciting Flowrider, one of the world’s largest fullsize surfing machines, a 190-metre Master Blaster Rollercoaster and a four-lane Matt Racer that loops around the outer edge of the waterpark.

Other rides include the Sidewinder, where a raft drops off the edge of the water to the depths of a U-shaped abyss. It

Troy Aqua Troy Aqua at Rixos Premium Belek in Antalya Turkey is a marvel of aquatic engineering based on the Troy theme.

Measuring an incredible 25,000 square meters, Troy Aqua sets the standard for all aquaparks with a Flow rider; a Master blaster (a water coaster that allows inclines up to 13 meters); pool-to-pool (passageways from one pool to another); and a 25-meter Trojan horse (two closed, three open slides with inflatable boats).

The waterpark also has a 1,500 square meter wave pool, the popular Cavern of

22 I Travel Arabia

the Lost City; a 14-meter watchtower (three slides with inflatable boats); a children’s pool in the form of a Trojan boat with four slides and numerous fountains; and Helen’s Bar, a kamikaze slide overlooking the surf pool.

Moreover, Troy Aqua likewise has a closed slide Hydrotube; a multi-slide with special purpose sliding mat, the Adventure River which surrounds the whole area; and a restaurant and bar above the wave pool.

Inquiries: www.rixos.com

hits the bottom then slides up and down, back and forth inside a slippery half pipe.

Another that is definitely not to be missed is the Black Hole, where sliders step into a blue, covered slide and fall into absolute darkness.

The Todd’s Pool, for its part, is a brightly coloured play area for kids with mini waterslides, water cannons, water fountains, and kiddie pools.

All this is at a guaranteed 30 degrees Celsius – all year round! Wahooo! Waterpark Bahrain is located within Bahrain’s largest and newest 1.5 million square foot retail offering, the Bahrain City Centre.

Inquiries: +973 17173000 or email at info@wahooo.com.bh

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?

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

It’s a

COOL SUMMER, indeed!

Places you may want to be, things you may want to do.

Free rooms…discount packages…freebies. They think of everything, don’t they?

Call it summer extravaganza. Why not? It’s the time of the year when best the deals are all over town. All you have to do is figure out where to go and what to do—which may not be too easy considering all the tempting offers.

Alila Diwa Goa Suite Deals Apr. 1, 2011 – Sept. 30, 2011 * Diwa Room: AED 2,702 * Diwa Suite: AED 3,193 * Family Suite: AED 3,193 * Alila Suite: AED 3,684 * Diwa 2-bedroom Suite: AED 4,421 Package include private airport transfers; accommodation for 3 nights on double occupancy; breakfast at Bistro; a la carte lunch and dinner at any outlet; one-time complimentary 15-min reflexology at SPA Alila;. 15% discount on SPA

24 I Travel Arabia

Alila retail; wifi rooms and public areas; culinary classes; 4th night complimentary (room only) for all guests checking in on a Sun, Mon and Tues.

Government taxes will be charged on the complimentary 4th night. Complimentary stay for 2 children below the age of 12 sharing existing bedding.

Inquiries: +91 832 2746800, or diwagoa@ alilahotels.com Mumbai Sales Office T: +91 22 66991000 E: salesmumbai@alilahotels.com Delhi Sales Office T: +91 11 4172 9572 / 73 /74 E: salesdelhi@alilahotels.com Ahmedabad Sales Office T: +91 79 26441915 E: salesamd@alilahotels.com Pune Sales Office T: +91 20 40077250 E: salespune@alilahotels.com Ludhiana Sales Office T: +91 16 14091100 E: ritika@alilahotels.com www.alilahotels.com - www.aliladiwagoa.

com * Based on Rupee-Dirham exchange rates as of May 15th 2011.

Cristal Hotels & Resorts Summer Special AED395 with breakfast and free internet. Inquiries: +971 2 6355545 or www. cristalhotelsandresorts.com

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Free rides for the kids May 1st, 2011 – Sept. 4, 2011 Kids should be 1.5 meters and below.

Fans of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi can also now enjoy access to the park all year round with the launch of the Annual Pass, an admission card which allows fans unlimited access to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi all year long.

The Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Gen-

Villa retreat, a summer treat From May 15th till August 29th, 2011 Tranquility is a state of mind that you can surely achieve in a place that knows its true meaning.

We at The Cove Rotana Resort – Ras Al Khaimah have designed an ambience, with redefining sparkle of luxury in our Villas to wrap you in the lap of serene hospitality this summer.

Be pleasantly surprised by our summer rates that will shade you with cool comforts.

WEEKDAYS* Type

WEEKENDS* Rack Rate

Promotion Rate

1 Bedroom Villa

3,000

1,000

2 Bedroom Villa

4,000

3 Bedroom Villa

5,000

Type

Rack Rate

Promotion Rate

1 Bedroom Villa

3,000

1,400

1,600

2 Bedroom Villa

4,000

2,200

2,000

3 Bedroom Villa

5,000

2,750

Book now by calling +971 (0)7 206 6000 or email: cove.resort@rotana.com quoting ‘VILLA11’ *The above rates are in AED and subject to 10% service charge *The above rates are per villa per night on villa only basis *Limited number of villas are available for the above mentioned promotion *The above rates cannot be combined with any other promotion *Free buffet breakfast included for Rotana Rewards Exclusive members

P.O. Box: 34429, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. T: +971 (0)7 206 6000, F: +971 (0)7 206 6200, cove.resort@rotana.com

Just check out www.millenniumhotels. com to discover what’s on offer at your favourite Millennium Copthorne hotel.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts 100% Summer Fun, 25% extra savings May 10th, 2011 – Aug. 31st 2011 Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai AED 375 Hotel Jumeirah Beach AED 425 Ibn Battuta Gate AED 395 Hotel Deira AED 295 All rates subject to local taxes and service charge. Promo covers over 40 Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts across the Middle East, Europe, Asia and Africa.

Inquiries: www.moevenpick-hotels.com

Radisson Blu Hotel

Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort

eral Admission Annual Pass is available for AED 1195 for guests above 1.5 metres while the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi General Admission Junior Annual Pass is available for AED 795 for those below 1.5 metres, promising a year of fun for every member of the family.

Ibn Battuta Gate Sizzling rates June to July 25% discount starting from AED395 excluding municipality fees and service charge. Package include beach access and transfer to Oceana Beach Club on Palm Jumeirah, shuttle service to Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, complimentary kids club and daily kids program, ice cream and soft drinks for kids and 20% discount on participating outlets at Ibn Battuta Mall. Inquiries: +971 4 444 0000 or hotel.dubai.ibnbattuta@moevenpick. com

Sleep in Oman, Brunch in Dubai.

Now until Dec. 30th, 2011 The Radisson Blu Hotel, Muscat has joined forces with the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek to offer an unbeatable weekend package.

If you book a weekend at the newly renovated Radisson Blu Hotel in Muscat you’ll receive a complimentary brunch voucher for two at the Friday Fun Food Festival every Friday at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek.

Inquiries: +968 2448 7777 or reservations.muscat@radissonblu.com.

Ramada Hotel & Suites Ajman Free Room May 2nd , 2011 – Sept. 30th , 2011 Pay for five nights and stay for six.

Room rates start at AED 250. Discounts on food and spa treatments.

Inquiries: +971 6740 4666; info@ ramadaajman.com.

Ramada Downtown Dubai Executive Room Rates Service includes complimentary

Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort Chill Out Package AED 349 per person per night. Two children, per room, less than 12 years of age free of charge. Enjoy this weekdayonly offer with gourmet breakfast, lunch or dinner. Inquiries: +971 9 244 9000 or reservations@lemeridien-alaqah.com

Millennium Hotels and Resorts 99 Days Hot hotel room rates starting @199.

26 I Travel Arabia

Alila Diwa Goa.

airport transfers, welcome drink upon arrival, choice of ordering continental breakfast in the suite, VIP amenities and free wifi; access to outdoor pool and fitness center; and free bus shuttle to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai International Financial Center and the Burj Khalifa metro station.

Inquiries: reservations@ramadadowntowndubai.com

Shangri-La Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives Summer Adventure Package June 1st, 2011 – Sept. 2011 Starts @ US$1,800 per two-bedroom beach villa per night Bonus two complimentary nights when staying for five nights, return domestic flights from Malé to Gan for four persons, four family adventures—a dolphin cruise, a snorkelling trip, a bicycle tour of Addu and a private guided nature walk for four persons—two unique dining experiences including a Jungle Dinner and an In-Villa Barbecue Dinner for four persons. Daily buffet breakfast in Javvu Restaurant. Inquiries: (960) 689 7888 or e-mail reservations.slmd@shangri-la. com.

Taj Palace Hotel Dubai May 15th, 2011 – Aug. 27th, 2011 Executive Room starts @ AED499 Easy access to the city’s leisure and tourist attractions from Dubai Creek dhow cruises, the Wild Wadi water park to the cooler climes of the Deira City Centre and Dubai Mall. It is also conveniently located close to Dubai International Airport and within walking distance of the metro.

Inquiries + 971 4 223 2222 or tphreservations.dxb@tajhotels.com.

Tel No: +971 4 377 1111, Fax: +971 4 357 4477 Email: reservations@parkregisdubai.com Toll Free: 800 7171 (All GCC Countries +971)

Whistle Stop

The paradise that is

MALDIVES The modern day definition of paradise is less reliant on the religious connotations and I guess generally refers to a state of happiness, beauty and relaxation.

Well, if I was to define the Maldives, paradise would be a fitting description.

From Dubai, the flight to Malé, the capital, is just over four hours, making this escape ideal for Middle East residents. However, where we ended up almost doubled the journey time as we didn’t really factor in the additional travel time in lieu of a fantastic property and of course a good deal. We opted for “The Beach House Collection” as it was known back then under the Relais and Châteaux Group, but now is under the management

28 I Travel Arabia

of the Hilton: (http://www.beachhousemaldives.com/) So after a four-hour international flight, we took a 45-minute domestic flight on a plan where not only luggage was weighed but humans, too. Thankfully,

we had a light lunch and were saved from too many frowning flight staff. This additional flight allowed us to view the beauty of the archipelago from a great height— suffice to say my camera saw most of the journey from the small porthole windows.

Thereafter, we were warmly welcomed and ushered onto a 30-ft speed boat with life jackets and water for the 45-minute boat ride across the turquoise and rich blues of the warm and shallow waters of the Indian Ocean.

Eagerly anticipating just which of the islands was “ours,” we skipped and bounced across the water in relative comfort—unlike a trip my mother took at The Thousand Islands off Java where most people were glad to see dry land, but that’s another story—and upon arrival, were not disappointed with the size and layout of our home for the next five days!

Our accommodation was a chalet on stilts in the water – with a large bedroom and lounge with an “al fresco” toilet and separate shower along with a huge bath tab opening up onto the decking with a private infinity pool with steps directly into the sea. Oh, and of course it had the complimentary glass floor in the lounge to view the marine wild life from the

comfort of your sofa—not that we spent much time inside! Despite its proximity to other chalets, it was very secluded and at times it felt like we were the only two persons on earth.

Aside from the usual spa visits, which we of course indulged in, we opted for the snorkeling trip and the sunset trip for two. The underwater adventure was fantastic and provided that motivation to finally get round to apply for a PADI Course on our return to Dubai (ok, don’t

ask, we still haven’t got round to it!) – but the famous blue and yellow Maldivian Fish along with scenes from “Finding Nemo” were text-book-bucket-list things to see!

The sunset trip was truly a stunning and intimate experience with the sea and nature. We perched on a “canoe” sized vessel that had fruit and drinks along with three, yes three, crew on board to steer, serve and ensure we had a truly memorable (and long!) trip upon the Indian Ocean and into the sunset.

If you are there for exploration, shopping, night life and adventure, choose another destination; if you are there for total relaxation, reconnection time with your loved one, swimming, dining, simply escaping from life in general, no phones and newspapers, just total ignorance and bliss from the stresses and strains of modern life, then, yes, this is your perfect destination.

Happy travels!

Contributed by Julian Redman

Travel Arabia I 29

Odyssey

www.vilureefmaldives.com

Vilu Reef Beach & Spa Resort

A breath-taking experience you’d love to have again and again A short picturesque seaplane trip takes you to paradise.

A luxurious emerald island poised amidst shimmering pools of turquoise and sapphire. A vision of paradise—even before you could set foot on the island.

Sprawled across the entire expanse of Meedhuffushi Island in South Nilandhe Atoll, 128km south of Male’ International Airport, Vilu Reef Beach & Spa Resort never fails to create a breathtaking first impression, rivaled only by the experience of embracing the island’s beauty up close.

Blessed with pristine beaches and lush greenery, this unspoiled island boasts a treasure trove of gems that awaits discovery. The island is reached by a 35-minute picturesque journey by seaplane.

Accommodation As one of Maldives’ premier resorts, no efforts are spared in creating a splendid holiday experience that’s guaranteed to bring back fond memories. Guests are pampered from head to toe with suites of amenities and warm, personalized service, whether in the Garden Villas, Beach Villas, Jacuzzi Water Villas or Honeymoon Water Villas.

If the occasion calls for, the prestigious Presidential Water Suite will undoubtedly

30 I Travel Arabia

transform your stay here into the holiday of a lifetime.

Wine and Dine Begin and end your day with an exquisite dining experience amidst the spectacular backdrop of the Indian Ocean.

Throughout the day, the resort’s restaurants and bars dish out exotic local fare, as well as familiar favorites of the East and West.

In addition, themed dining options are available for guests wishing to try something a little different.

Sun Spa A tranquil pond with water fountain immediately transfers guests to a calm state of mind when they enter the Sun Spa at Vilu Reef Beach & Spa Resort. An oasis of serenity awaits within a setting of rustic ambience.

Diving Discover why divers and snorkel-lovers consider Maldives a dream come true. With astounding visibility, every turn unveils new treasures and secrets hidden to the rest of the world like ancient shipwrecks.

EXTRAORDINARY HOLIDAY Designed for pure relaxation with its sun kissed powdery beaches, crystal clear waters and mesmerizing underwater life, these perfectly located retreats are a true escapist dream.

Riding with the dolphins, alfresco dining by the beach or indulging your senses at the spa, discover Maldives at your own pace. When you stay with us, our promise to deliver an affordable luxury holiday stays true.

www.olhuvelimaldives.com

www.vilureefmaldives.com

H.Maley-thila, Meheli Goalhi, Male’, Rep. of Maldives, Tel: (960) 3325977, Fax: (960) 3318273 E: info@sunhotelsandresorts.com, W: www.sunhotelsandresorts.com

Destination 365

The Canaries Why not?

A volcanic island chain that has spring weather all year long, golf resorts, World Heritage sites, and clear waters great for diving, windsurfing, even whale watching is surely worth your bucket list.

Tenerife Island.

32 Travel Arabia

A

tee ideal natural conditions for water sports mong the main values that difthroughout the year, as they enjoy a springferentiate the Canaries as a tourlike average annual temperature, and steady ist destination, there is one that wind conditions. stands out: the natural wealth In Fuerteventura Island, winds reach of the archipelago, and more specifically, great speeds. World windsurf and kitesurf the exceptional and unique kind of natural championships, are held each year in the resources of volcanic origin. In fact, these beaches of Sotavento in the municipality Atlantic islands are one of the most interof Pájara. esting active volcanic regions in the world.

The island of El Hierro, for its part, is For this reason, the Canaries is also best one of the best sites in Europe for diving known as a “volcano tourism destination.” and underwater photography, thanks to the Mount Teide, at 3,718 metres above sea clarity of its waters and the variety of spelevel and 7,000 above the ocean floor, is the cies that can be seen. third biggest volWorth noting too cano in the world is that at least 72 world measured from its The Canaries: seven islands, records have been base, which makes seven different realities. registered in Canarian Tenerife the second ports regarding blue highest volcanic marlins caught in local island in the world. waters, among other species, during fishing “La Cueva del Viento” (The Wind derbies.

Cave), in Tenerife, is among the ten biggest volcanic tubes in the world, at more than 20 kilometres.

Genuine Worth checking out is the auditorium The Canaries is a place where tourists of “Los Jameos del Agua” in Lanzarote can experience genuine nautical excitement which is situated inside a volcanic tube that all year round; it is the best place for amareaches out to the sea; spelunkers have not teurs to come and enjoy perfect conditions yet found its end because of problems of to try out their favourite water sport. What access. In its interior are many examples of is more, it offers top level sportsmen and the blind crab, unique to the island. women the perfect place to organize their training with all the guarantees they need.

The sea, sport and nautical activities Exotic destination offer a promising holiday for travelers The natural conditions of the Canary looking for new experiences in places with Islands and their geographical position a high quality of nature, away from mass make them an exotic destination within destinations and the traditional consumpEurope, with a privileged climate and a tion of sun and beach. unique natural setting. The islands guaran-

A portion of Lanzarote Island.

Family fun The Canary Islands have very attractive offers that combine the beach with complimentary activities such as excursions, boat trips, nature routes or culture, gastronomy, and leisure activities, among others, for a fun-filled family vacation.

It has been demonstrated that families try to avoid overcrowded and noisy places, and they look for safe areas in terms of crimes and terrorism; evidently, they take more precautions than other tourists. This is one of the strong points of the Canary Islands.

Good weather Good weather is another important consideration when it comes to choosing where to go on holiday, and again, even more so for families. Canary Islands are at a great advantage thanks to the enviable climate all year round.

Cultural heritage The range of activities to do with cultural heritage in the Canary Islands is also of great importance since many families often complement their stay with visits to museums and other similar tourist attractions.

Golf The Canaries is a pioneer in golf in Spain, having the oldest golf club: the Royal Golf Club of Las Palmas, which opened in 1891.

There are many golf courses which are popular with golf tourists, and they are to be found in several islands.

Climbers at Mount Teide take a break.

Travel Arabia I 33

Interesting facts • The Canaries, with five Biosphere Reserves, is the Autonomous Community in Spain with the second highest number of areas distinguished by this category by UNESCO. • The southeast coast of Tenerife is one of the best places in the world for whalewatching.

• The Gomeran whistle is one of the most original traditional cultural phenomena, practised by few other societies in the world. It is a language which is used to communicate across long distances, using only the lips and fingers, and which has been passed on from generation to generation over centuries.

• The Canarian Music Festival is the most important classical music festival held in

Europe in winter.

• The Canary Pine is unique for its resistance to fire, and is capable of regenerating itself after forest fire.

• UNESCO considers the microclimate of Mogán, in Gran Canaria, to be the best in the world.

• The airport of La Palma is the only one in the world that is completely powered by wind energy.

• The Canaries is home to four of the twelve Spanish National Parks, two of which are on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

• The sky of La Palma is one of the clearest and least light-contaminated, for which reason it is classed as a World Astronomic Reserve.

At a glance: • The average yearly temperature is over 20 degrees centigrade which means the islands have cool breeze blowing all year long.

• 10 million tourists visit the Canaries annually. The islands have 186,623 hotel beds (in 573 establishments) and 235,086 non-hotel beds (in 1,803 establishments).

• The islands—Lanzarote, known as the island of 100 volcanoes; Fuerteventura; Gran Canaria; Tenerife; La Gomera; La

El Hierro Island.

Palma; and El Hierro—are volcanic in origin.

• The Canaries have eight airports (six of them international ones). The islands are also connected at various points by fast ferries.

• The National Parks of Garajonay and Teide are on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The town of San Cristóbal de La Laguna is also classed as a World Heritage Site.

34 I Travel Arabia

• The island of El Hierro was, before the Greenwich Meridian, known as the Zero Meridian.

• Canary wines, specifically malvassy (la malvasía), appear in references in different works by William Shakespeare.

• Within a few years, the island of El Hierro will be the only island that is 100% self-sufficient in renewable energies.

• The lens of the Great Canary Telescope, situated in the Observatory of the Roque de los Muchachos in La Palma, is the biggest in the world.

• The carnival celebrations in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria are among the best in the world, along with those of Brazil and Venice.

How to get there:

Hungry?

One of the Canaries’ most distinctive ingredients is called, gofio—roasted maize meal, which is used in a variety of recipes and prepared in different ways.

Also worthy of interest are the local small salted “wrinkly” potatoes, cooked in their skins (papas arrugadas), the spicy sauce (mojo picón), the Canarian stew, made with salted fish and yam (sancocho), the watercress-based thick soup (potaje de berros), the vegetable, chickpea and meat stew (puchero), another traditional stew made with meat and pasta (rancho), and finally ropa vieja, a mixture of chickpeas, potatoes, meat and vegetables in a delicious sauce.

The islands are likewise famous for their varieties of cheeses and wines.

Desserts also deserve a special mention, including a variety of local puddings made with cheese, almonds, honey, eggs, marzipan, milk and caramel.

Some of the airlines that fly direct from the United Kingdom are Thomas Cook, Thomson Airways, Monarch airlines, Jet2, Easyjet, Airlingus and Ryanair.

There are also direct flights to virtually every island from other European countries such as Germany (Air Berlin, Condor), Scandinavian countries, Austria, Belgium, and the Netherlands among others.

From the Middle East, the easiest way to get to Canary Island is to fly with Emirates Airlines or Qatar Airways to Madrid, and from there, a flight with Iberia or Air Europa to any of the islands. Other combinations are possible but are less comfortable for the time, number of stopovers or involves flying in low cost companies.

Where to stay Paradores is a state-run chain of hotels. These are charming hotels that offer the highest standards of service.

There are five Paradores in the islands—in Tenerife (La Canadas del Teide), Hierro, La Palma, Gomera and Gran Canaria (Cruz de Tejeda). website www.parador.es, Other websites: www.rusticae.es and www.hotelesconencanto.com.

A home away from home starting from AED 5555* per month Take advantage of this special offer from the three hotels: Villa Rotana, Rimal Rotana and Rihab Rotana. Close to the main attractions and only 10 minutes from Dubai Airport, these are placed on ideal locations. Each spacious apartment has an equipped kitchenette and wireless internet. And to make your stay with us even more enjoyable and relaxing we have a fully equipped gymnasium, sauna, steam room and swimming pool. *Terms & conditions apply. Rates are subject to 10% municipality fees & 10% service charge.

For more information or reservations, please contact: Villa Rotana Dubai T: +971 (0)4 321 6111, Rihab Rotana Dubai T: +971 (0)4 294 0300, Rimal Rotana Dubai T: +971 (0)4 268 8000

Outside Arabia What to do in Chiang Mai Adventure Chiang Mai’s X-Centre is a great venue for active teenagers or adrenalin seekers of all ages, offering off-road tours by motor bike or buggy into the hills overlooking the Mae Rim Valley; paintballing; bungee jumping or rolling down a hill inside one of the huge Xorb Balls www.chiangmai-xcentre.com The Chiang Mai Zoo is worth a visit, to see well-cared for animals in spacious enclosures, or visit the Tiger Kingdom for an up close and personal visit with tiger cubs or fully grown cats. Here you

Off road sports Northern Thailand

Northern Thailand Adventures in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai (Second of a three-part series.)

Ideal destinations for those who love adventure.

W

hen thinking of Thailand, most people think of beaches but the country has so much more to offer than just temples and a sun tan.

Located 700 kms north of Bangkok, Chiang Mai is the ideal destination for adventure packed holidays for the whole family – adventures that include trekking, elephant riding, white water rafting and, of course, the Golden Triangle.

Chiang Mai is set on the Ping River, a major tributary of the Chao Phraya River

36 I Travel Arabia

which runs through Bangkok, and has long been a centre for handcrafted goods, wooden furniture, painted umbrellas, silver and woodcarvings, as well as being the home to over 300 Buddhist Temples.

Steeped in history, this walled city attracts backpackers and luxury travellers alike with attractions including the famous Night Market, various craft centres to watch artisans carving souvenirs and furniture, making umbrellas and crafting silver jewellery, as well as the more active adventures.

actually enter the enclosures for picture taking and holding the smaller cubs. www.tigerkingdom.com Snake farms, orchid and butterfly nurseries, as well as monkey training schools are also popular attractions with trips booked through the hotel concierge on arrival.

Chiang Rai Combine your Northern Thailand adventure with a trip to Chiang Rai easily accessible by VIP bus from Chiang Mai taking 3 hours along a scenic route.

The bus has seats and service similar to

This is the second of a three-part series about Thailand’s splendid destinations.

Travel Arabia will run the last which is about Hua Hin, the country’s famous beach resort, in the next edition.

Tom&Dan White Water Rafting ChiangMai.

Tribe excursions can be found.

Seven of the major hill tribes of Tibeto-Burman origin are located in the area, with travellers able to experience short visits on day trips, or overnight stays on one of the 2 to 6-day treks through the forested mountains.

The best time to visit Chiang Rai is in winter (November to February) when the air is cool and the beautiful flowers in bloom, although some of the most colourful festivals are held during the warmer months, such as: The King Mengrai Festival held annually in honour of the founder of Chiang Rai and the Lanna Thai Kingdom, or the Chiang Rai Songkran Festival, held in April, where four nations (Thailand, Laos, China and Myanmar) compete in boat races on the Mekong River.

Chiang Rai Songkran Festival.

what you would get on a plane and costs around Bht 300 (US$10). Thailand’s northernmost province, Chiang Rai is a major tourism gateway to Myanmar and

Laos, at the heart of the Golden Triangle.

Majestic mountains and antiquities attest to Chiang Rai’s prosperous past civilisation, and it is from here that the best Hill

What to do White Water Rafting is an amazing experience for the entire family and is offered by a number of tour opera-

Travel Arabia I 37

tors from Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Elephant trekking is a must if you didn’t do that in Chiang Mai, as is a visit to the Golden Triangle and the Hall of Opium.

Authentic cooking classes are popular – and for the best shopping don’t miss the Tachilek Market at Mae Sai on the Burmese border, for Jade, clothing , footwear and silver jewellery at unbelievable prices.

How to get there Thai Airways is the best option from the Middle East with a choice of connecting flights from Bangkok to both Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Amazing value fares from AED 2,100 until June 22nd, 2011.

Chiang Rai Songkran Festival.

Where to stay

White Temple Chiang Rai.

Dusitd2 Chiang Mai Located just off the famous Chang Klan road, the 131 room dusitD2 sits in the heart of downtown Chiang Mai, with the bustling night bazaar, restaurants and entertainment at its doorstep. Listed in the “Top 10 trendiest hotels in Asia” by TripAdvisor, dusitd2 Chiang Mai offers a Devarana spa, one of the bestequipped health clubs in the city and excellent summer packages. Check out www.dusit.com for full details.

Royal Princess Chiang Mai Or try the Royal Princess Chiang Mai – slightly larger than the dusitd2 offering an elegant Lanna-style decor; uniquely northern Thailand with 1-bed and 2-bed suites ideal for families.

Dusit Island Resort Chiang Rai A romantic hotel situated on an island in the Mae Kok River not far from the city centre. Reflecting the diversity of northern Thai styles in its decor and furnishings, the hotel is primarily a family resort with swimming pool, fitness centre, tennis courts and golf nearby. Special promotions and advance purchase internet rates can be found on www. dusit.com A tea shopkeeper smiles for the camera.

38 I Travel Arabia

A bird enjoys serenity at the Chiang Mai Zoo.

Attractions

An oasis of indulgence Banyan Tree Al Wadi The sun has just set behind the sand dunes, leaving behind vivid crimson skies and a gentle evening breeze.

Here in Ras Al Khaimah, which lies between the Arabian Gulf and the Hajjar mountains, every sunset is magical… ephemeral yet eternal. Amid the red desert sand, evergreen ghaf trees, and hypnotic tranquility, it is easy to forget that Ras Al Khaimah is less than an hour’s drive from the ever-bustling Dubai.

Banyan Tree Al Wadi presents guests a unique dual experience: A luxury desert resort set in a nature reserve with 101 luxurious pool villas, complemented with a Beach Club 20 minutes drive away with 32 beach-fronting pool villas and 18-hole championship golf course nearby.

40 I Travel Arabia

Adventure in the making The resort has much to offer wildlife enthusiasts. Popular outdoor activities include horse riding, guided nature walk, archery, desert safaris and a wide range of

Discover a luxury sojourn near Ras Al Khaimah water activities on the beach side.

Falconry is a traditional art with various equipment and knots to master, plus caretaking to be understood. At Banyan Tree Al Wadi, guests can take a falconry course or interact and learn more about

the birds during the daily falconry display.

It’s exhilarating to witness these birds of prey swoop in and take a piece of meat from your gloved hand.

Seeking shelter from the sun? Be pampered at Banyan Tree Spa, with six spa pavilions at the Beach Club, as well as

10 treatments rooms and The Rainforest in the desert resort. The Rainforest is a favorite amongst guests: Imagine an experiential journey of stirring tropical showers, gushing water jets, and a relaxing hammam session.

For wine connoisseurs and food enthusiasts, the resort offers a variety of choices. The signature Thai restaurant— Saffron offers authentic Thai cuisine, overlooking the nature reserve’s watering hole where the wildlife gathers during sunset. Al Waha, “oasis” in Arabic, serves popular international fare and local specialties. With a spectacular display of modern yet Arabseque interior design, guests can choose to dine indoors where floor-to-ceiling windows sets the stage for metres-high sand dunes, or on the

outdoor terrace where an Arabic grill and spit-roast holds court. Located at the main swimming pool at the Beach Club, Sands Grill Restaurant features Mexican and Mediterranean signature dishes prepared on the signature beach grill.

Destination dining is something special. Set atop vast sand dunes, this unique experience offers a night of desert dining under the vast Arabian sky. In true Bedouin-style, sit across a brilliant campfire while partaking in traditional dishes, song and dance, marking an exquisite and memorable dinner.

Discover Banyan Tree Al Wadi—An oasis of indulgence.

For inquiries: Tel: +971 7 206 7777; alwadi@banyantree.com or visit www. banyantree.com.

Travel Arabia I 41

Taste Travel

Lalezar at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Dubai’s first Anatolian restaurant is a delightful culinary discovery

Turkish cuisine is probably one of the most interesting dining experiences to be found. It is one that has a long and interesting history with roots that can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire. It is also a very diverse cuisine that is heavily influenced by Mediterranean, Greek and Middle East foods but is surprisingly light and full of flavour.

Billing itself as Dubai’s first Anatolian restaurant serving classical Turkish cuisine Lalezar at the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is a delightful culinary discovery. And while the location may be a little out of the way – all the way down the trunk of the Palm Jumeirah and almost all of the way back to the city – the trip is well worth it, particularly for the ambience.

The restaurant is beautifully designed with little touches such as the handmade bright orange and yellow coloured chandelier above a central water feature, the showpiece charcoal oven and the glasses decorated with delicately coloured leaves.

The walls, decorated with fruits and flowers, are all hand painted, a process that was inspired by the Topkapi Palace in Istanbu and took seven months to complete.

Head chef Deniz is passionate about his cuisine and is keen to share the secrets

42 I Travel Arabia

of his dishes. “Turkish food is seasonal and incredibly varied depending on which part of Turkey you happen to be visiting. For example in the southeast the cuisine is well known for its kebabs and mezze while the Black Sea region serves up seafood quite extensively. In and around the popular tourist spots of Istanbul and Izmir the food is lighter using a lot of spices and seafood” The Turkish meal generally begins with a mezze which includes both hot and cold dishes including seasonal vegetables, calamari and dolma – which are usually vegetable stuffed with rice or meat.

The word dolma is derived from the Turkish verb dolmak, which means ‘to be stuffed’ or ‘stuffed thing’ and is one of the cuisines of the former Ottoman Empire.

Popular dolma are often peppers, eggplant, zucchini and tomatoes and they can be filled with or without meat. Meat dolma are generally served warm, often with sauce, while meatless ones are generally served cold.

Chef Deniz has perfected his own dolma recipe which he presents as a variety of dolma: stuffed seasonal vegetables vegetable stuffed with aromatic rice and served with strained yogurt.

The main course that follows such a mezze spread will be fish or grilled meat depending on which area of Turkey you happen to be in at the time. However Turkish restaurants will often prepare a

menu that reflects all of the regional cuisine of the country so diners can experience food from the different regions.

Chef Deniz has attempted to bring the best of the country to his restaurant giving diners significantly more choice than if they were in the country. His signature main course dish is the Iskender kebap, a sliced lamb and beef kebab served with crispy pita bread, Turkish gravy and strained yoghurt. This dish is one of the most famous meat foods of Northwestern Turkey and takes its name from its inventor, Iskender Efendi (Iskender meaning ‘Alexander’), who lived in Bursa in the late 19th century.

It is a delicious blend of thinly cut grilled lamb basted with hot tomato sauce over pieces of pita bread and generously slathered with melted sheep’s butter and yogurt.

As with all cuisines the meal ends with a sweet treat and Turkish desserts are an adventure. Chef Deniz is proud of his Tavuk Gogsu which he describes as a chicken breast pudding with roasted almond and cinnamon powder. Now, chicken for dessert is probably not everyone’s idea of a sweet, however, it is creamy and sweet with the chicken meat adding texture rather than flavour.

For a traditional Turkish experience Lalezar is certainly worth a night out, particularly for the atmosphere and the detailed menu.

Arabian Ranches Golf Club

DAILY DELEGATE RATE SPECIAL SUMMER PROMOTION

Allow us to make your meeting or event at the Arabian Ranches Golf Club, truly memorable.

Featuring built-in projection and audiovisual support for the most demanding agendas, our conference facilities are a perfect option for corporate meetings and events hosting up to 80 guests.

Daily Delegate Rate – Special Summer Promotion AED 170 net BENEFITS * 3 refreshment breaks (welcome / mid-morning / afternoon) * Lunch: Buffet or Set Menu * Soft drinks during lunch * 1 set of LCD Projector & Projection screen * Flip chart & white board * Meeting amenities * Free car parking OTHER BENEFITS * Special package for after meeting drinks * Preferential rate for group golf tuition at the Golf Academy * Preferential green fee rate for the 18-hole Championship Golf Course and Par 3 course

TERMS AND CONDITIONS * Daily Delegate Package is valid for a minimum of 10 guests and above * Half day package will be provided upon request * The above rate is subject to availability * Rate is inclusive of 10% service charge and 10% municipality fee * Offer valid until 31st August 2011

For reservations or enquiries, please call +971 4366 3000 7 or email VAyyapankuty@arabianranchesgolf.ae www.arabianranchesgolfdubai.com

The world on your plate —all day long Essence at Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi rolls out an epicurean treat

A bon vivant’s feast, indeed!

Essence, which opened on April 13th, 2011 is, well, essentially an all-day dining, international restaurant serving a large variety of dishes from around the globe daily, from breakfast to dinner.

Entering through a mashrabiyasurrounded gateway amongst Arabesque ceiling decorations, you will walk into an oasis with the lively feel of a marketplace; a nourishing sanctuary combining the essence of Arabia and a subtle, modern touch. The aromas of freshly baked croissants and breads, the sprawling chocolate fountain, the smoking-hot tandoor and the live shawarma and sushi stations will send your taste buds into a journey of culinary discovery.

Catch of the day Experience the bounty of the sea every Thursday evening at Essence, the newest contemporary restaurant at Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi. From lobster, prawns and shrimps to freshly shucked oysters on the half shell, enjoy unlimited seafood offerings for just AED 195.

44 I Travel Arabia

Setting the scene on Fridays After unveiling the newest contemporary dining experience in Abu Dhabi, Essence restaurant is set to debut the finest in epicurean feats- the Friday brunch.

From 12:30pm -3:30pm, enjoy cuisine from all corners of the world for only

AED195 inclusive of one glass of house beverage.

For reservations or further information, please contact +971 (0)2 697 9011 or on direct tel. +971 (0)2 697 9121. All prices are subject to 10 percent service charge and 6 percent tourism fee.

This summer UAE is the place to go with the family Stay with any of our hotels in Abu Dhabi and Dubai Why not both ?

Starting from AED 375 for One bedroom Suite

Khalidia Hotel Apartments, Dubai

Mourouj Hotel Apartments, Abu Dhabi

Terms and conditions This offer is valid till 28th August 2011 and is subject to availability Subject to applicable service charge and tax Valet parking service available free of charge Full kitchen in each suite Daily turn down services Two and Three bedrooms available for families Late check out up to 3:00 pm on availability

For reservations: Abu Dhabi: Tel. +971 2 641 3555, E-mail: mhapt@eim.ae Dubai: Tel. +971 4 228 2280, E-mail: reservations@khalidiahotel.ae

His specialty: appetizers and desserts “My first role back then at home was to re-heat food. Later on, I started cooking.”

—Seosh Chandran, executive sous chef, Sheraton Deira Hotel. to re-heat food. Later on, I started cooking,” says Chandran, now executive sous chef at Sheraton Deira Hotel.

With a degree in hotel management and over 11 years of professional experience in gastronomy, Chandran, who knows French, Chinese, Italian, Arabic and Mexican cuisines, says he pursued the career because it involves a challenge to one’s creativity.

“That’s the main reason I was attracted to this profession,” he tells Travel Arabia. Second being, he says, the opportunity to go places, be exposed to different cultures—cuisines, as well—and

Appetizers and desserts are what Chandran loves to prepare the most. “You start with an appetizer when you eat. If it’s good, the entire meal will be good.

And what better way to end it than with a nice dessert?’

Moreover presently at Sheraton Deira Hotel, I look after 2 F&B outlets, namely The Terrace, an all-day dining wherein we offer our valued guests different theme night buffets and to mention some, La Piazza, the French Night every Tuesday or the Italian Night every Thursday where we serve tempting freshly made pizza and live pasta counter. These themed

‘The chef’s job has become even more challenging. He has to create food that tastes great, is healthy, and is good, diet-wise.’ meet different people.

Chandran says creativity in the kitchen is being put to test nowadays with the trend being on organic food, those produced, processed and packaged without using chemicals, and accepted due to their perceived health benefits over conventional food.

“The chef ’s job has become even more challenging. He has to create food that tastes great, is healthy, and is good, diet-wise,” Chandran says.

As a boy, Seosh Chandran would hang around in the kitchen on weekends when everybody’s busy preparing food for the coming days—his parents were officegoing people, and so stocking up for the week seemed a wise option.

“My first role back then at home was

46 I Travel Arabia

nights offer me an opportunity to explore new and innovative dishes which, after a special in-house tasting, I offer them on our buffets. I enjoy exploring the mix of different ingredients to make a complete new food creation. Having said that we also have the Le Café, an informal lounge where we offer light snacks with some delicious desserts, another area which I enjoy because in this culinary area of dessert preparation, you can just go wildly innovative and I just love it.”

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

Features InterContinental Abu Dhabi

Where things just keep getting better for the summer seven days in advance. Bookings should be placed before Aug. 31st, 2011 for stays until Sept. 10th, 2011.

Book early at ihg.com/25offsummer or call +971 2 693 5154/5155.

Special summer break rates Meanwhile, give your family a summer break with InterContinental Abu Dhabi’s special summer break rates. Double rooms start at AED 500 net per room per night and suites from only AED 900 net per suite per night.

valid until Sept. 10th, 2011. Book now at icmeetings@icauh.ae or call +971 2 666 6888.

Iftar Book your Iftar at InterContinental Hotel Abu Dhabi and be rewarded generously! The hotel’s private Iftar meals are the perfect way to share the Ramadan spirit with friends and colleagues.

In the hotel’s numerous venues, avail of catering services for groups of anything from 50 to 1,000 people at prices starting

From family packages to business meetings and Iftar get-togethers— everything’s been thought out for you.

Children under 12 years of age stay free or you may book an additional room at 25 % off. The offer is valid until Sept.

10th, 2011 subject to availability. This package is valid only for nationals and residents of UAE and the GCC. For further information or to make a reservation call +971 2 693 5154/5155 or email reservations@icauh.ae InterContinental Hotels Group has come up with an irresistible summer offer: Book seven nights and save 25 % on room rates. You and your family can get more out of your summer holiday with 25 percent off room rates across all InterContinental Hotels Group in the Middle East and Africa.

Offer valid on a minimum seven nights’ stay and booked a minimum of

48 I Travel Arabia

Business meetings Need a room for meetings? At InterContinental Abu Dhabi, book a minimum of 10 rooms and the meeting room is on the house. Room rates start from AED 450. And if it’s only a meeting room you need, InterContinental Abu Dhabi has a choice of meeting rooms with daily delegate rates from AED 180 per person.

Rates include refreshments, a 10 % service charge and 6 % tourism fees. The offer is

from AED 165 per person.

Book before the end of June 2011 and get up to 15 % discount. For further information contact icmeetings@icauh.ae or call +971 2 666 6888.

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

Golden Tulip Al Barsha

At the center of everything Indulge in the comfort of a 4-star deluxe hotel right at the heart of Dubai’s shoppers’ paradise requirements. All major credit cards are accepted.

Dubai has a total of 37 malls. The major malls are nearby for a frenzied, high-end brand name, all-day shopping galore—Mall of the Emirates and Ibn Battuta Mall. The iconic Madinat Jumeirah, a Dubai must-see, is also just around the corner, as well as the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa.

With the Sharaf DG Metro Station now open and is some 200 meters away, guests get full access to other exciting leisure destinations.

When in Dubai, stay at Golden Tulip in Al Barsha, the height of splendor and grandeur, where everything is within reach, and anywhere is within minutes.

There are over a thousand and one reasons why Golden Tulip should be the place for a holiday of luxurious self-indulgence or business conference—the decadent comfort is just too tempting to let go, like an oasis of dates and cool spring water in the middle of nowhere.

The Golden Tulip Al Barsha, a 125room hotel with 10 deluxe rooms and 10 Flamingo Suites, is the latest addition to Dubai’s four-star portfolio. The hotel is adjacent to Sheikh Zayed Road, and is perfect for short or long stays. Smoking and non smoking rooms are available upon request. Two banquet rooms for up to 100 people are also available with all meeting

50 I Travel Arabia

Flamingo Residence The hotel’s one- and two-bedroom suites come with a fully equipped kitchenette including washing machine. It has a spacious bedroom and lounge with hi-speed wireless internet facility, among others.

Deluxe rooms have everything you could possibly want: very comfortable bed, flat screen TV, high speed internet, among others.

On the rooftop is a temperaturecontrolled swimming pool where one can also order for a selection of refreshments.

It also has one of the biggest hotel gyms in the area.

Dining The Fresh Restaurant is an all-day dining place offering extensive selections of specialties. Breakfast buffet is at 6:30 am to 10:30 am; a la carte is at 11.00 am

to 6:30 am The Locker Room The Locker Room Sports Bar is the first Sports Bar in Al Barsha. It serves everyone’s favorite British food all day long.

It has 11 plasmas to watch all favorite sport games and exciting theme nights everyday, and BBQ dinner every Friday.

The bar is open daily from 1.00 pm to 1.00 am (Thursday & Friday till 03:00 am)

‘Stay and Play’ with MEDIA ONE this summer Media One Hotel came about only 18 months ago and has since quickly established its unique brand in the local scene. This summer the theme is “Stay and Play” to make the most of one of Dubai’s most stylishly hip hotels. Media One is ideal for weekend or mid-week getaways.

There are a variety of deals to choose from for corporate companies, travel trade and individual leisure guests from end of May to September 10th 2011.

Hitesh Mayor, Director of Sales and Marketing, tells us more: “Dubai is an exciting destination that still attracts a multitude of leisure and business travellers during the summer. Therefore, Media One continues to be committed to being a competitive hotel option, targeting travellers of all ages and incomes”.

Hitesh Mayor

How do you prepare for the corporate clients’ summer activities and events?

“We are trendsetters and we implement various touches to make the guests’ stay memorable. We do this by combining activities within the hotel and coming up with competitive pricing.

Our business floor offers seven distinct meeting rooms, with a capacity ranging from 20 to 120 people, with a unique creative thinking room. We have established a cost-effective package for our corporate clients during the summer months with a special daily delegate rate and extremely attractive group rates. Our hotel is also a welcome refuge after a tiring

52 I Travel Arabia

day, as customers can unwind at sunset by the swimming pool, enjoy a workout in the state-of-the-art gymnasium or relax in the sauna and steam rooms”.

How do the needs of the leisure guest differ?

“Dubai Summer Surprises will continue to drive visitors to the city and we will work with them to provide value added packages, plus a ‘stay and play’ leisure package for the UAE residents who look forward to rest and relaxation on the weekend.

During summer, the competition will be very fierce and therefore our everyday rate is extremely competitive, including breakfast, free internet access and free shuttles to key malls.

Media One is also about being fresh and energetic in everything we do so we have created a momentous weekend party package that takes in two of our famous food and beverage promotions—Steak Night and Friday Brunch—plus a room stay. We will also ensure their weekend of fun is organised before they arrive so they can hit the ground running. And when they already have enough fun, their bed is just an elevator ride away”.

What are your unique selling points that attract UAE-based guests and customers?

“We believe in being fresh and vibrant in everything we do and offer; and our hotel definitely has an edge, including our food and beverage outlets which offer a deliciously unique culinary experience.

The hotel is prominently sited in Dubai’s Media City, which makes our location ideal for Emirates Golf Club, just minutes away from Dubai Marina and the Mina Seyahi sandy beaches; plus the hotel is in close proximity to Dubai’s premier shopping destinations including Mall of the Emirates, Ibn Battutta Mall and The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence making it very central. Abu Dhabi is only 50 minutes away so the hotel is also an ideal UAE centrepoint for a weekend stay”.

How does Media One differ from its competitors?

“We are always looking for ways to stand out from the competition and have several initiatives in the pipeline. But the fundamental basis for our success is that we believe in doing things differently whilst still offering a value for money room rate and concentrating on offering very high standards of quality and service.

“We believe Media One Hotel has a dynamic sense of style and appeal; it provides cost-effective accommodation, facilities and services in a trendy environment. We are very happy to welcome our guests to a hotel that is a world away from being ordinary”.

For more information and reservations please call Dubai 427 1000 or email cu@mediaonehotel.com

Tango extravaganza, Singaporean Week at Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi (MHAD), along with the Embassy of Argentina recently organized an unforgettable tango evening at the hotel’s luxurious ballroom where over 250 people attended.

Moine Kandil, Millennium Hotel general manager welcomed Argentinean Amb. Ruben Eduardo Caro and other visitors and guests who were also treated to a sumptuous Argentinean buffet and an awesome entertainment by tango celebrities flown in for the event.

“Such an event generated tremendous interest among tango lovers in the UAE and such cultural spectacle is definitely a strong uniting force where there is no discrimination in color, nationality, language or status,” Kandil said. Tango is a dance of body language.

There are various styles, including Argentine tango, Uruguayan tango, the ballroom tango, and Finnish tango among others. What many consider to be

54 I Travel Arabia

the authentic tango is that closest to that originally danced in Argentina and Uruguay, though other types have developed.

Meanwhile, in collaboration with the Singaporean Embassy and Singapore

Airlines, MHAD hosted an authentic Singaporean week during which two culinary icons, Chefs Tang Kum Cheong and Lum Kwai Weng were flown in from Orchard Hotel for the occasion. The two were masters in the lavish preparation of authentic, mouth-watering Singaporean dishes.

In addition, the People’s Association Talents Band, consisting of eight entertainers, were also brought in to perform at the event’s gala dinner, which showcased multi-ethnic Asian cultures through dances with colorful costumes.

Kandil welcomed the over 300 guests who all expressed to him that they had a wonderful visit at the hotel. He also thanked the sponsors Excel Food, Jurgon, Crimson Logic, Al Ridwan Continental Travel as well as the Singaporean Embassy and Singapore Airlines whose contributions were one of the reasons behind the great success of the event.

Melting Pot A CORNUCOPIA OF THE GOOD TIMES AHEAD

Photo courtesy of Radisson Blu Dubai Deira Creek.

Summer thrills

Dining promos. Room packages. Spa treatments. Wedding specials. Golf gigs…and more!

Arabian Ranches Golf Club

Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi

Quiz Night Tuesdays Wednesday BBQ Thursday British Buffet Friday Ribs and Chops Saturday Mexican Friday Brunch Inquiries: +971 4 360 7935 or email restaurant@arabianranchesgolf.ae

Finz Seventh Anniversary July 9 – 15, 2011 Seven of the Finz favourite dishes at AED 77 for seven days. a table!

Inquiries: +971 (0) 2 697 9350 Indigo Fourth Birthday

56 I Travel Arabia

July 27 – 29, 2011 Special menu.

Inquiries: +971 (0) 2 697 9334

Dusit Thani International Sawasdee Experience Enjoy true luxury with gracious Thai hospitality at Dusit Thani hotels in Dubai, Egypt, Thailand and Manila, Philip-

pines . Enjoy a complimentary Thai set dinner for two, a souvenir photo in Thai silk frame, turndown service with flower garland or Thai style fruit/vegetable carving, and much more. Price starts from THB 1,860++ per night (225.696 AED; US$61.4457 as of writing). Terms and Conditions apply.

Inquiries and reservations: www.Dusit. com/Summer. Or contact Dusit Central Reservations: +66 (0) 2636 3333, E-mail: booking@dusit.com.

Holiday Inn Al Barsha Daily Kebab Specials Vegetarian Kebab Platter including a house beverage for 2 persons @ AED75 Non Vegetarian Kebab Platter including a house beverage for 2 @ AED85 Mixed Kebab Platter including a house beverage for 2 @ AED95 7pm to 11:30pm weekdays, 7pm to 12:30am weekends Inquiries: 04 – 3234333 reservations@ hialbarsha.com / restaurants@hialbarsha. com www.holidayinn.com

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach The Talk Restaurant & Lounge Spicy Sunday 6:30 pm – 11pm India- and Sri Lanka-inspired spice buffet.

AED 165 per person. Kids 12 and under dine for free.

Wednesdays: A Taste of Asia 6:30pm – 11pm Buffet showcasing all the unique tastes of Asia. Live cooking stations.

AED 165 per person. Kids 12 and under

dine for free.

Thursdays: Flavours of the Mediterranean 6:30pm – 11pm AED 165 per person including buffet and soft drinks or AED 250 including buffet and Peroni beer as well as Italian Sparkling Package. Kids 12 and under dine for free.

Fridays: Jazz & Bubbles Friday Brunch 12.30pm till 4pm.

Live stations. Walk-in wine cellar transformed to a cheese lover’s heaven.

AED 199 full brunch buffet including soft beverages & tea/coffee AED 299 full brunch buffet including selected alcoholic beverages AED 399 full brunch buffet, selected alcoholic beverages and premium French Champagne. Kids 12 and under dine complimentary!

Saturdays: Poolside BBQ and the Talk Lounging 12:30pm – 3:30pm Starts at AED120 per person. Free for kids 12 and under.

Enjoy the succulent selection from the grill while basking in the sun.

All inquiries: 04 449 8888 or email talk. jumeirahbeach.com.

Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek Dine for Less June 1, 2011—Aug. 30, 2011 Spend AED 400 in any of the restaurants, receive a AED100 voucher to be redeemed at any of the other restaurants on your next visit.

The voucher is valid until Oct. 31, 2011 and is not valid in conjunction with any

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

other benefits or discount programmes.

Inquiries: 04/ 205 7333 or 7444.

The Yas Hotel Angar and Noodle Box A sizzling savings of 35% off your meal, and it doesn’t stop there! As the heat rises, the amount you pay drops further. Whether you choose to savor the traditional curries in the authentic Indian food at Angar or the spice of the South East Asian cuisine at Noodle Box, the outside temperature at the time you pay your bill, will be the percentage you get off your food. Book a table at lunchtime for guaranteed sunshine if you can handle the heat! Discount applies to food only, and from temperature of 35°C and upwards.

All prices are subject to 10% service charge and 6% Tourism fee. Online reservations: www.TheYasHotel.com

ROOMS 30, 2011.

Select from close to 30 Banyan Tree and Angsana hotels and resorts to benefit from the great value on offer. Inquiries: 800065-0586

Emirates Grand Hotel Crowne Plaze Dubai Deira

Banyan Tree and Angsana Hotels and Resorts Book 2 Get 3 Valid for bookings at best available rates made from June 6, 2011 to June 20, 2011 for stays from July 1, 2011 to Sept.

Deluxe Room Special Valid till Aug. 31, 2011 Book a deluxe room and get a complimentary upgrade to a one-bedroom suite at a special rate of AED480 per night including breakfast. The special deal is offered to two guests occupying the room while a third guest sharing the room will pay an additional AED150. Children

below 12 years sharing the room are free of charge. Inquiries: +971 4 3230000

Fraser Suites Dubai Free Upgrades June and August 2011 Book deluxe room and get free upgrade to Premier rooms for one- and two-bedroom suites. Inquiries:+971 4 440 1420, +971 4 4401400.

Miramar Al Aqua Beach Resort Pay 4 nights stay 5 May 15, 2011-- Sept. 30, 2011 (Does not apply during Eid celebrations.)

Inquiries: +971 4 3230000

Travel Arabia I 57

Sohar Beach by Swiss-Belhotel (Oman) Sohar Summer Value Package Starting at OMR 48 per night (AED457.90) 25% discount. Accommodation in a

superior garden view or deluxe pool view rooms.

Daily buffet breakfast for up to 2 persons at Sallan Restaurant & Terrace. Rates listed are per room, per night, single or

double occupancy and subject to 17% taxes and service charge. Meals for children up to 6 years are complimentary and a 50% discount is applied for children from 6 to 12 years. Inquiries: (971) 4 2958408.

Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi

Dusit Thani International

Zen the Spa Rasul Mud Extravaganza June, July, August 2011 Buy 1 get 1 Complimentary Enjoy one of the oldest Arabic rituals!

Four different types of mineral mud applied over your body.

Sit back and relax in the steam chamber for 20 minutes.

Rinse off the mineral mud under a cool shower.

Emerge energized and refreshed with purified and soft skin.

Inquiries and bookings: 02 6979333

Spa Escape Ten percent discount on all a la carte treatment as well as 10 percent discount on selected spa retail products. Guests will also receive a special spa giveaway for their turndown service. *Price starts from THB 1,860 per night (225.664 AED, US$ 61.4372 USD as of writing).

Offer available in Dusit Thani hotels in Dubai, Egypt, Thailand and Manila, Philippines. Inquiries and reservations: www.

Dusit.com/Summer. Or contact Dusit Central Reservations: +66 (0) 2636 3333, E-mail: booking@dusit.com.

SPA

Zen the Spa.

GOLF

WEDDING

Arabian Ranches Golf Club

Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira

All Day Twilight Sundays to Wednesdays The great way to maximize value for money on the golf course. Play as many holes as possible any time on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

Visitors AED 255 EGF Members AED 225 AR Residents AED 225 Member’s Guests AED 205 Club Members AED 145 Four Player Special Thursdays Green fee rate for four persons Visitors AED 895 EGF Members AED 795 AR Residents AED 795 Inquiries: +971 4 366 3000 or email teetime@arabianranchesgolf.ae

Book your special day and get a complimentary night’s stay in one of our well-appointed suites. Our wedding package also offers the following benefits: Valet parking, wedding cake, upgraded suite accommodation at the hotel, intimate couple’s dinner, full international breakfast buffet, designer table settings, focus spotlights for the bride, security at the entrance, red carpet entry, dance floor, stage and the Crowne Plaza Meetings Team that makes every event memorable.

Inquiries: wesam.hamdy@ihg.com or +971 4- 262 5555.

The Address Montgomerie Dubai Hit the links for less. Log on to www. themontgomerie.com and enjoy special discounted tee times.

Inquiries: +971 4 390 5600 or email smueller@theaddress.com.

58 I Travel Arabia

Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai Book your wedding for the month of October onwards now and enjoy a perfect honeymoon for three nights stay in either Mövenpick Hotel Istanbul, Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea or Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Beirut.

The impressive 500 m2 Oud Metha Ballroom now presents a stylish and tasteful venue for all types of occasions.

Inquiries: Phone +971 4 3104202

MISCELLANEOUS Dusit Thani International Family Escapade Best rate plus 50% discount accorded on room rate for the second room reserved for children upon check-in.

Guests also receive complimentary breakfast.

Romance for Eternity A bottle of bubbles, chocolate-coated strawberries and flowers, and breakfast in bed. Inquiries: +66 (0) 2636 3333, Email: booking@dusit.com.

Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek Al Mansour Dhow Treat Don’t miss the chance to experience the finest in Arabian hospitality aboard the Al Mansour Dhow!Evening dinner cruises only. Inquiries: 04- 205 7333

Rotana Hotels and Resorts Comedy Tour May 16, 2011 – July 4, 2011 Funny Girls, the first all-female comedy show and Boys’ Night Out, the best blend of just about everything.

Visit rotanatimes.com for full schedule.

Enjoy a feast of Worldwide Flavours!

Eat and drink to your heart’s content with a buffet dinner, unlimited selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, live cooking station and desserts to-die-for.

Saturdays Sundays Mondays Tuesdays Wednesdays Thursdays & Fridays

Flavours of the Silk Road Sizzling Salsa Sunday Flavours of India Flavours of Britain Flavours of the Ocean Flavours of Italy

AED 179* AED 179* AED 179* AED 179* AED 199* AED 189*

Add bubbly to your dinner on Saturdays - Tuesdays for AED 209*, Wednesdays for AED 229* and Thursdays - Fridays for AED 219* * Terms and Conditions Apply P.O. Box 30430, Dubai, UAE. T: +971 (0) 4 312 2202, F: +971 (0) 4 312 2207, fb.towers@rotana.com

Tranquil Moments Long even effleurage strokes combined with some deeper kneading... was complemented by the soothing sounds of... Enya.

After about 20 minutes my therapist, Michelle, brought a very welcome glass of water and I was led to a comfy floor seating to cool down before the ritual foot washing.

My treatment was a traditional Swedish massage which promised to purify and relax me. Long even effleurage strokes combined with some deeper kneading around my shoulders and neck to dispel the enormous amount of tension I hold there was complemented by the soothing sounds of birdsong and some livelier Enya.

At the end of my 50 minutes, I was left to relax and then dress in the privacy of my own changing room. A sweet ginger tea later and I was good to face the world again.

Good for: Hotel guests staying at the Emirates Grand Hotel.

Adam & Eve spa at the Emirates Grand Hotel

Swedish massage Probably one of the highest spas in Dubai, the Adam & Eve spa at Emirates Grand Hotel is located on the 45th floor far above the buzz and bustle of Sheikh Zayed Road.

It is a mixed facility and has 13 treatment rooms all named after exotic flowers.

I was led to the ylang ylang room, a cavernous place of dark brown wooden floors and throne-like chairs, that somehow still managed to feel cosy.

60 I Travel Arabia

I had requested some time in the steam room before my treatment and was delighted to find that I had a private steam chamber within the treatment room so I didn’t need to traverse so far afterwards.

This steam room was quite unlike anything I had seen before. Peering through the clouds of billowing steam I spotted a large couch with a water filled pillow for my head and clambered on to lie supine letting the steam roll over my body.

á«bóæØdG ≥≤°T h ¥OÉæa

HOTELS & HOTEL APARTMENTS

HOTEL APARTMENTS DUBAI Emirates Stars is a modern furnished hotel apartment Conveniently located near to Dubai International Airport, City Centre, Shopping Centres, AI Mamzar Beach. Easy access towards Sh. Zayed road via Al lttihad road.

Each apartment offers a spacious living and dining area, fully equipped kitchenette for your comfort and convenience. Emirates Stars commits its promise into bringing you a warm hospitality service with privacy of a home whilst on business or leisure to Dubai.

HOTEL APARTMENTS SHARJAH

Luxurious Hotel Apartments in the heart of Sharjah. Just minutes away from the heart of the city, and walking distance from Sharjah Aquarium.

The Emirates Stars Hotel Apartments Sharjah, Offers luxury address defined by its location and quality service. From its beautifully decorated rooms and suites, enjoy the spectacular views of both, the Al Khan and Khalid lagoons. Experience the culture and traditions of the city in true tranquility.

Come and stay with us.

EMIRATES STARS DUBAI

EMIRATES STARS SHARJAH

FOR BOOKING & INQUIRIES PLEASE CALL HEAD OFFICE

Tel: +971 4 2589888 Fax: +971 4 2585682 Email: dxb@emiracessrars.ae Website: www.emiracesstars.ae

Limelight INSIDE THE TOURISM WORLD

The Turkish touch

Rixos Residences Palm Jumeirah to open Holidaying in the ‘8th wonder of the world’ right next to the Ruler of Dubai’s palace should be a real treat Rixos Hotels, which will be celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, has announced it

will open the five-star Rixos Residences Palm Jumeirah, a combined hotel and residence

project in Dubai by December.

Located in the most prestigious part of Palm Island, which has frequently been referred to as the “eighth wonder of the world,” Rixos Residences Palm Jumeirah signifies the arrival of Rixos Hotels in the UAE and the region, said Fettah Tamince, Chairman of Rixos Hotels.

The hotel section of Rixos Residences Palm Jumeirah consists of 204 rooms. The project neighbours H.H. Sheikh Mohammad Al Maktoum’s Palace. The hotel will feature contemporary-style Middle Eastern influences.

The residence section boasts 112 flats, offering various options such as 2-3 bedroom residences as well as 4-5 bedroom detached villas.

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

My Travel Bag My Travel Bag, a meeting point for today’s travellers’ interesting experiences, tips and ideas.

In this edition, Jessica Prelle, Marketing Manager Crocs Middle East, shares what she has in her Travel Bag with us. We’re waiting for yours, too Send them to dass@kalimatgroup.com. And don’t forget to send us images of your experience and of yourself.

Does travelling alone appeal to you?

Not really. I love travelling with my partner, either alone or with a group of

When was the last time you traveled and where?

Last month I went to Nepal with a group of friends for a total adventure vacation with bungee jumping and rafting in the middle of nowhere, a few kilometers away from the Tibetan border. It was a trip none of us will ever forget.

Yosemite National Park is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. The vibe of the whole coast, especially San Francisco, is so much fun.

New York – it was over 10 years ago

What is your dream destination?

Any place that offers new experiences.

It could be beaches, mountains, jungle— the farther away the better.

Name three places in the world that you can’t wait to see Mauritius, Greece, Hawaii

Durban Valley.

friends. I believe sharing the new impressions and experiences is what makes it fun.

Also you have somebody to re-live these memories with even years later.

Phuket.

Rafting Nepal.

64 I Travel Arabia

Name three of your favorite places you would love to return to – and why South Africa – because I have only seen Durban so far and already fell in love with the place. The game reserves, being that close to wild animals really fascinated me. I would love to see more of the country.

California – I visited California in 2009 and did a roadtrip with my sisters.

Sri Lanka.

Nepal close to Tibet border.

Durban Warner Beach.

that I was there but I would love to go back and visit all the sites again and this time also check out the nightlife there.

Some would immediately hit the pool or the spa or bar. Others would hit the road with their cameras and digital recorders.

How about you?

I always make sure to have a balance of relaxation and action when on vacation.

Coming from Dubai, I do not have the urge to hang out at the pool or beach all day. We have all that here. A treat at the spa and a bit of down time at the hotel are nice but I would not want to miss sightseeing opportunities.

What excites you when travelling?

The whole preparation already gets me excited. Picking where to go, reading up, researching – that’s already half of the fun!

What are the 3 most important things you always take when travelling?

Camera, Anti-mosquito spray and a comfortable pair of Crocs FlipFlops!

What motivates you to travel? Food?

Shopping? Sightseeing?

I am a person who researches everything before visiting a place and so the main sights and must-dos are always on the list but in addition I also look for new things to do such as bungee-jumping or anything out of the norm.

Discover An Oasis of Indulgence Arabian-inspired tented villas bring you closer to nature. Awake to the dawn chorus of birdsong before embarking on a multitude of activities from rejuvenating spa treatments to awe-inspiring falconry displays.

Surrounded by rolling dunes amid spectacular sunrises and sunsets, Banyan Tree Al Wadi is now open in Ras Al Khaimah.

To find out more, visit banyantree.com

Banyan Tree Al Wadi Al Mazaraa, P.O. Box 35288, Ras Al Khaimah, U.A.E Tel: +971 7 206 7777 Fax: +971 7 243 5000