Dubai: The Dubai International Airport on Thursday issued top travel tips for passengers ahead of the festive season rush to ensure hastle free travel for all.

As the festive season gets underway, hundreds of thousands of travellers are expected to take to the skies to reunite with family and loved ones, indulge in holiday getaways or explore exciting new destinations.

DXB – one of the world’s most connected and biggest international airports – is primed for peak season, ready to facilitate a diverse range of offerings this holiday season.

The airport will welcome an estimated 4.4 million passengers through its doors between December 15 and December 31, with the average total daily traffic reaching 258,000.

DXB is preparing for an exceptional spike in guest numbers on Friday, December 22, the busiest day for the airport, welcoming an estimated 279,000 passengers.

As Dubai continues to cement itself as a popular destination during the winter, a surge in arrivals is anticipated to hit during the last two weekends of the year, with half a million passengers — mainly comprising point to point traffic, expected to arrive over six days from December 22 to 24, and from December 29 to 31.

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What to do

Whether departing to go home for the holidays, arriving in Dubai to celebrate the festive season or simply passing through, Dubai Airports is set to provide guests with a truly memorable experience.

Across Terminals 1, 2 and 3, the airport will host a series of activities, from a 3D photo opportunity in a giant snow globe and visits form a range of festive performers who will be handing out chocolates and other gifts, to the chance for little travellers to meet Santa and his elves and receive special presents.

“We welcomed new airlines and additional flights at DXB at the start of the winter to help attract a growing number of visitors to Dubai and connect them to even more cities,” said Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Terminal Operations at DXB.

Airport preparations

He added: “With the holiday spirit in full swing, we’re prepared for this travel peak to provide passengers a memorable experience. Backed by a state-of-the-art airport operations control centre, our dedicated teams across DXB are committed to making the festive travel experience cheerful and bright. Working closely with our partners to ensure your holiday travel is truly magical, we hope the added festive-themed activities will add a touch of wonder to their experience at DXB.”

DXB’s top tips to beat the festive rush

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She succeeds her father, Dan Sullivan, Jr., who will become the company’s executive chairman. In that capacity, he will continue to participate in the company’s overall direction and long-term strategy. 

Liebl-Cote, who has been president and chief customer experience officer since 2018, will lead Collette’s executive and strategic leadership teams and set the company’s strategic direction and day-to-day operations.

During her 18 years at the company, she had held positions as tour guide, client care agent, head of marketing and product designer and strategist. In her previous roles, she had been responsible for product-line differentiation, defining a values-driven corporate culture and developing the company’s customer-experience platform and data-driven strategy.

“This transition is the culmination of a comprehensive succession planning process to ensure leadership continuity and position Collette for continued growth,” said Sullivan.

Rajasthan, a prominent heritage state in India also known as the Land of Kings, has long been a magnet for travellers seeking the perfect blend of history, culture, and beauty. But in the age of Instagram, Rajasthan has taken on a new role as a hotspot for the most picturesque and photogenic destinations that blend age-old elegance with contemporary influence. From the bygone palaces of Udaipur to the majestic forts of Jaipur, here are the top five most Instagrammable places to visit in Rajasthan.

Gogunda Palace, Udaipur

Nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills and the sparkling waters of Lake Pichola, Udaipur is a city straight out of a fairy tale. Known as the Venice of the East, its opulent palaces, intricate temples, and serene lakes have long captivated travellers. A remarkable landmark with a rich history dating back to the times of Maharana Pratap is the Gogunda Palace. Located approximately 40 kilometres from Udaipur, this palace-turned-hotel is gaining popularity among discerning travellers from both India and overseas. This charming 16th-century palace has been beautifully restored to its former glory, offering a glimpse into Rajasthan’s regal past. Instagrammers can capture ornate architecture, lush gardens, and breathtaking views within and beyond the palace.

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Jodhpur, known as the Blue City, is a fascinating blend of history and colour. Renowned for its vibrant blue-painted buildings, imposing Mehrangarh Fort, and lively bazaars that offer a sensory explosion of sights, sounds, and flavours, Jodhpur is a must-visit. Umaid Bhawan Palace, a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic architecture, is a true Instagram sensation in Jodhpur. The palace’s golden-yellow sandstone facade and expansive gardens provide endless photo opportunities. Inside, its regal interiors, vintage car collection, and luxurious suites are sure to leave a lasting impression, perfect for showcasing on the ‘Gram.

Samode Haveli, Jaipur

Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital and recognised as the Pink City, is a vibrant mix of history and modernity. Its UNESCO-listed City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and bustling markets are a treasure trove for photographers looking to experience the city. However, the lesser-known treasure for Instagrammers is nestled in the heart of Jaipur – Samode Haveli. This 18th-century mansion-turned-boutique hotel exudes old-world charm at every turn. Its courtyards, frescoed walls, and lush gardens create a charming backdrop for photographs that transport you back in time.

Narendra Bhawan, Bikaner

Bikaner, a city in the Thar Desert, is known for its stunning dunes, magnificent forts, and delectable sweets. It’s a unique blend of rustic beauty and royal grandeur. Narendra Bhawan, a former residence of the last reigning Maharaja of Bikaner, is a testament to the city’s regal heritage. This luxurious hotel offers Instagram-worthy experiences at every turn, from its art-deco interiors to its rooftop pool with panoramic desert views.

Neemrana Fort-Palace, Neemrana

Neemrana, a town in the Alwar district, is famous for the Neemrana Fort-Palace, a 15th-century heritage property that’s been carefully restored to retain its former grandeur. Your plan to visit this town must entail putting up at the majestic Neemrana Fort Palace, perched on a hill, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Its tiered gardens, intricate architecture, and rustic charm make it a photographer’s dream. A dip in the pool overlooking the Aravalli Hills is a must for the ultimate Instagram shot.

As social media currently rules for people to showcase their lifestyle and achievements, these Instagrammable destinations in Rajasthan offer a glimpse into the state’s rich heritage and timeless beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply in search of that perfect Instagram moment, these five gems in the Land of Kings are waiting to be explored and shared with the world.

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Visitors to London are spoiled for choice when it comes to hotels – the city is poised to have the most hotel rooms in the world by 2025. Among its gems are some of the world’s most beloved properties, like Claridge’s and the Connaught, along with newcomers that are soon to reach the same level of esteem. Take the luxurious Raffles London at the OWO, where rooms will start at more than 1,100 ($1,372), or the Peninsula London, whose palatial rooms start at 560 square feet and 1,300. Both open in September.

But spending four-figure sums each night is hardly a requirement. According to data from the commercial real estate research firm CoStar, the average daily room rate in the city was 185 in August 2023, up from 150 in the same month in 2019. While that may not buy you a top Mayfair spot with butler service, it will open the door to a new wave of stylish hotels, ranging from a food-focused urban hangout in Shoreditch to a Caribbean-inspired escape in Notting Hill.

There are other ways to save, besides making a less conventionally luxurious choice. Traveling in January rather than July can shave more than $150 off average five-star room rates, bringing them from around $647 to $462, according to data from Google hotels. Using credit card points and benefits always helps, too. With business travel still depressed, weekdays remain cheaper than weekends – and saving on accommodations can (and probably should) be a good excuse to splurge on London’s best bars or tickets to the theater.

With that, here are seven great recently opened hotels in London with rooms typically priced under $500 a night.

Chelsea Townhouse

With 36 rooms spread across three Queen Anne-style Victorian red-brick homes in leafy West London, this residential-style property lets guests feel like a Chelsea local – some suites even offer private access onto Cadogan Gardens. The neighborhood has a lot to offer: The Saatchi Gallery, Royal Court Theatre, and charming Pavilion Road with its boutique shops and restaurants are all nearby. And given the track record of the hotel’s posh siblings, the luxurious Cliveden House and the Mayfair Townhouse, service and style are bound to be above-par. Rooms from 364.

Art’Otel London Battersea Power Station

Accessible via the newly extended Northern line on London’s Underground network, this quirky-cool spot is right next to the revamped Battersea Power Station – a decommissioned riverfront icon which now contains the new UK headquarters of Apple, as well as fun shops and bars. The hotel itself is brightly decorated with funky artwork and mirrors on the walls. It proved quite buzzy this summer, with tech workers and Londoners on dates filling the rattan chairs around the hotel’s rooftop infinity pool. It’s also the home to restaurant Joia, which serves fantastic Iberian fare like Spanish tortillas and salted cod with potatoes, egg and black olive. Rooms from 224.

The Hoxton, Shepherd’s Bush

The irreverent Hoxton brand, which got its start 17 years ago in the eponymous East London neighborhood, recently opened up a West London outpost in Shepherd’s Bush with 237 rooms. The area may be unfamiliar, given it’s not the most exciting location – but the central line zips into Bond Street in just 10 minutes, and the pastel-colored homes of Notting Hill are within walking distance. Add Hoxton’s bold design, stylish rooms and a fun restaurant in Thai-American diner Chet’s, and Shepherd’s Bush is suddenly looking up. Rooms from 176.

Mondrian Shoreditch

This East London neighborhood is chock full of trendy bars and restaurants, but one of its worthiest reservations is at this converted warehouse hotel: the Spanish spot Bibo Shoreditch, run by ultra-talented chef Dani Garca. (Pack a bathing suit, too, if the forecast allows; the rooftop pool and bar make for excellent people-watching.) The 120 light-flooded rooms have urban features like exposed brick and there’s access to a spacious basement gym. Plus, you can’t beat the location. Rooms from 299.

One Hundred Shoreditch

The former Ace Hotel on Shoreditch High Street was a mainstay of East London, known for its always-packed bars and chill atmosphere. The creative class worked on laptops here during the day and partied into the late hours at night. The Ace closed in 2020, but the property reopened, fully refreshed, in 2022 – under the management of the same independent hotel group that runs the fantastic Pulitzer hotel in Amsterdam. In its new incarnation, One Hundred Shoreditch has 258 rooms and suites, and multiple venues to eat and drink – ranging from Sticks’n’Sushi to a rooftop restaurant serving California-inspired brunch. It’s a welcome addition to Shoreditch’s scene, especially the bar Seed Library, where cocktail maestro Ryan Chetiyawardana pours drinks like the Koji Hardshake, made with Johnnie Walker Blue Label, miso, koji, cream sugar and lemon. Rooms from 254.

Hotel Amano Covent Garden

Stay at this 141-room boutique property and you may luck out with direct views of Covent Garden or the Theatre Royal Drury Lane – does it get more in-the-thick-of-it than that? There’s a rooftop bar with sweeping views of London and an Israeli restaurant called Penelope’s, with a lively, party-like atmosphere. What you get in location you pay for in square footage: The basic rooms start at 13 square meters (140 square feet). But all of London is at your doorstep. Rooms from 169.

Ruby Zoe, Notting Hill

Notting Hill may be London’s most charming neighborhood – it’s known for Portobello market, the August carnival, those brightly colored houses and, of course, the 1999 romantic comedy of the same name. What it lacks are great hotels. This 173-room gem is turning the tide, with Caribbean-inspired interiors that nod to the area’s historic West Indian population. There’s an in-house vinyl shop, and guests can borrow electric guitars from the hotel during their stays (the rooms have soundproofing). And for some more conventional sightseeing, it’s all a stroll away from Kensington Palace and the shops of Westbourne Grove. Rooms from 225.

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Qantas Airways Ltd. was served with a class-action lawsuit by lawyers who allege the airline failed to refund passengers for flights cancelled during the pandemic and illegally benefited by retaining billion of dollars of customer funds.

By instead issuing flight credits with strict conditions of travel, the Australian airline enriched itself with interest-free financing at customers’ expense, according to a lawsuit filed in Federal Court last week by Echo Law and served on Qantas on Monday. Qantas said in a statement that it rejects the claims.

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Fares have soared since Covid travel restrictions eased, forcing customers to pay more than the value of their credits for fresh flights, said Echo law partner Andrew Paull. The airline has pressured passengers to redeem their vouchers or lose the credits entirely, Paull said. The lawsuit is seeking refunds for all remaining credits and compensation for the years that customers have been out of pocket.

The claim raise questions about the function “- and legality “- of travel credits lingering on airline balance sheets around the world. Qantas is this week set to report record annual profit after demand for travel jumped following the pandemic.

Qantas racked up some $1.3 billion in Covid-related travel credits. Last month it encouraged passengers to use up the remaining A$400 million of credits, offering double the normal number of loyalty points for bookings made with the vouchers before the end of July.

In its statement, Qantas said most customers with Covid-era credits can get their money back and the value of these refunds has surpassed A$1 billion. “Qantas has one of the most flexible Covid credit policies of any airline, including among our global peers, and we’ve extended the expiry dates three times,” it said.

For the year to 30 June, the Australian carrier forecasted an underlying pre-tax profit of between $1.6-1.65 billion, a significant swing from the A$1.86 billion underlying loss in the 2022 fiscal year.

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Montreal: Montreal becomes Emirates’ second gateway in Canada when the airline’s first flight touched down on Wednesday, July 5 at Quebec’s cultural capital.

The long-awaited flight from Dubai to Montreal was given a befitting welcome at the Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. The airline will operate daily flight between Dubai and Montreal which is the largest city in the French dominated Quebec Province and the second largest in Canada.

Montreal has become Emirates’ destination in Canada, complementing its passenger services to Toronto, which have been operating to Ontario’s capital city Toronto since 2007.

Emirates now serves Canada with 14 flights per week — seven each to Toronto and Montreal. The new route will help the airline meet huge demand for international travel between Canada and the rest of the world.

Diverse mix of demographics

Direct services between Dubai and Montréal are expected to meet demand from a diverse mix of demographics, including business and leisure travellers, in addition to visiting family and friends that consists of Canadians living and working in the UAE.

Not only than 45,000 Canadians living in the UAE benefit from this route but expats especially with extended families and children studying in Canada will be relieved to have extra capacity to travel to Canada. With Montréal being home to a number of world-class universities, the route is expected to become immensely popular amongst students from the Middle East, West and Central Asia and Far East. More than 250,000 students study in Montreal, according to available statistics.

EK243

Flight EK243 arrived in Montreal at 8.30am (local time) and was greeted with a procession of ‘follow-me vehicles to the gate. Even the ground staff at the airport tarmac pulled out their mobile phones to capture the historic moment. Senior officials and representatives from the aviation authorities were present to witness the touchdown, which also drew interest from aviation fans and media excited to capture the inaugural flight’s landing in Québec.

Emirates flight EK243 departed at 3am, on July 5 from Terminal 3 of the Dubai International Airport with 339 passengers, including a VIP delegation and media onboard.

Emirates executives onboard included: Adnan Kazim, Chief Commercial Officer; Salem Obaidalla, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations, Americas; and David Broz, Vice President Aeropolitical and Industry Affairs.

On arrival, the VIP delegation travelling from Dubai were welcomed by Serge Bijimine, Assistant Deputy Minister, Policy, Transport Canada; Philippe Rainville — President and Chief Executive Officer of ADM Aéroports de Montréal, and other Canadian officials.

Welcome ceremony

Following a welcome ceremony and symbolic gift exchange between the airline and airport officials, Emirates showcased its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft in a three-class configuration to government representatives, media, guests and members of the travel trade industry. The aircraft features eight private suites in First Class, 42 lie flat seats in Business Class and 304 spacious seats in Economy Class for the daily service.

Positive impact

Speaking at a crowded press conference soon after arrival at the airport in Montreal, Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Chief Commercial Officer emphasised the significance of the new destination and said: “Emirates is excited to launch our service to Montréal, and to grow our network with a second gateway into Canada. We take this opportunity to thank the UAE and Canadian authorities and partners for supporting the launch of the service, which is expected to positively impact tourism, business and trade in both countries.

“We came with the full load on the inaugural flight and our first return flight is also full. We have a great start to this new route which is bound to be a big hit among travellers and business community between the two countries,” he added.

Kazim explained: “Complementing our services to Toronto, customers will now have more choice when planning trips to Canada — they now can fly directly to the country’s second largest metropolis whether for business, leisure, education or for visiting family and friends.

“Since we announced our plans to launch direct services to Montréal, we have witnessed healthy bookings from travellers planning trips to Canada from points in the UAE, India, Iran and Lebanon in addition to many Far East and African countries.

“We look forward to welcoming our customers onboard to experience our “fly better” proposition across all classes.”

Historic day

On the commencement of Emirates’ services to Montréal, Philippe Rainville — President and Chief Executive Officer of ADM Aéroports de Montréal welcomed the delegation and assured all possible support from the airport authorities. “Today is historic day for us to have Emirates flight providing first direct connection between Montreal and Dubai and beyond,” he added.

Speaking to Gulf News, Fahad Saeed Al Raqbani, UAE’s Ambassador to Canada, said that arrival of the Emirates flight to Montreal opens a new gateway for connectivity between UAE and Canada.

More business opportunities

“Daily flight creates more opportunities for business community in both the countries. This also allows travellers to have access to more destinations which are not covered directly from Montreal.

I believe this is a major milestone in enhancing relations between UAE and Canada. Bilateral relations between the two countries have been developing tremendously over the years and the new direct flight will further enhance these ties.

“UAE is the largest trading partner in the region and also UAE is the most connected country in the region. I congratulate Emirates for this wonderful inaugural flight today.

Huge tribute

Speaking at the press conference Yves Lalumiere, President Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Montreal, paid huge tribute to Emirates and UAE saying: “This is by far one of the best news we have during the last five years. It is such a great honour to see ‘the world’s number one’ ranking airline Emirates flying to Montreal. Tourism Montreal today celebrate with great joy this daily service between Dubai and Montreal. We have a good start to our long term relationship with our friends in UAE.”

Emirates will operate its three-class Boeing 777-300ER on the route, featuring eight private suites in First Class, 42 lie flat seats in Business Class and over 300 spacious seats in Economy Class for the daily service.

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Cultural hub Montreal

Montréal is known for its fascinating neighbourhoods celebrating modern city style with a quaint old European feel, making the cultural hub a bucket list destination for locals, students and international travellers. Travellers can explore the famous Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal and visit the various museums nearby to discover how Montréal found its roots. Visits to Montréal Museum of Fine Arts, the Phi Centre, enjoying the street performances, or major festivals, are a must on everyone’s bucket list.

Travellers can look forward to the shopper’s paradise with chic boutiques and malls along Rue Sainte-Catherine, which are also abundant with street art in the vibrant Plateau Mont-Royal. The destination is a favourite amongst foodies and is known for the culinary delights it has to offer, from the iconic Montréal bagels that rival New York, to low-to-high-end restaurants serving cuisine from around the world. The famous poutine — a classic French-Canadian dish of fries, gravy and cheese curds — is also not to be missed.

Trade between UAE and Canada

The UAE is Canada’s largest export market in the Middle East and North Africa. In 2022, bilateral trade between Canada and the UAE exceeded C$2.6 billion, growing 53% over the last five years. According to Statistics Canada, it is estimated the UAE’s foreign direct investments stock in Canada was valued at C$1.3 billion in 2021.

Canada features in Dubai’s top 20 source markets for inbound tourism with 158,000 Canadian visitors in 2022, more than double the number in 2021 (Source: Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism). More than 40,000 Canadians also live and work in Dubai.

To support the movement of commodities and goods around the world, Emirates provides cargo services to Canada with a capacity to carry 20 tonnes in the bellyhold of its Boeing 777 passenger aircraft and up to 15 tonnes aboard its A380 aircraft.

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After more than two years of dreams placed on hold, we are all back in the travel saddle again heading for lands with undulating hills embracing tranquil streams not far from whimsical villages where the locals line the roads welcoming back tourists from the States. It will all be magical again.

I’ve read numerous surveys about where Americans want to go, but much of it is wasted on me. For the most part, everyone wants to go back to Italy or, perhaps, to explore it for the first time. When we talk about post-Covid bucket lists, there are the eternal dream destinations, Bali, Botswana and a remaining ice floe or two in Antarctica.

But we don’t have relatives in Antarctica. No one has opened a trendy restaurant in our neighborhood featuring Antarctic cuisine. Our movies and our media are not filled with images of friends and the influencers we follow sitting stoically in Zodiacs against backgrounds of nothingness.

No. We’ll get to our long-term bucket-list destinations in good time. But for now, we must return to Italy. 

But this time it is going to be different, and our clients and followers must be told that Italy is being challenged as never before. How will it handle the crowds, the demand and the pressures created when the art of photography has given way to an amateurish passion for lousy, self-made photographs?

A photograph is no longer something we might cherish, a lasting image that stirs the travel soul and produces a minefield of memories. Instead, tourists take as many shots as possible and think the photos will be more enticing if the photographer is stuck in the middle of the layout.

Selfies have become a kind of currency; they show friends and social media distant acquaintances that you have a life of value. And while some say they once traveled a certain road, your selfies prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that you were just there. Imagine that.

• Related: Fed up with bad behavior, destinations are striking back

So here come the tourist hordes traveling light with water bottles and an iPhone. They are heading everywhere in Italy, but Portofino is near the top on many lists. So let’s be aware that legislation has been introduced to assess fines of up to $270 for selfie-takers who linger long enough to block traffic or sidewalks along the bay.

In Liguria, there are now fines of up to $2,700 for tourists who attempt to traverse the walking paths in the five villages of Cinque Terra clad in flip-flops or sandals. Appropriate hiking shoes must be worn for hikes; to understand this, you must realize that no Italian would ever ride their bicycle without a special bike-riding uniform. 

In the major centers of Venice and Florence, the Italians have about had it with “snackers.” Within the city center of Venice you can be fined for trying to snack on the street or while walking. Florence enacted similar laws. 

How many hours over how many years have I paused on the Spanish Steps in Rome to add some observations to my journal? But today, I can be fined $270 just for sitting on those steps. 

On some Italian beaches it is now illegal to build a sandcastle. The fines run up to $270 per offense, and the purpose is to remove “unnecessary” obstructions on the sand.

Will selfie tourism be stopped? In 2019 Italy received 65 million visitors, and tourism was about 13% of the country’s GDP. Today, in the historical center of Venice there are an estimated 49,365 residents and 48,596 tourist beds.

Venice may need to be more concerned about drowning in humans than in water. But as the drowning continues, you can be certain that selfies will record the event. 

After a three-year hiatus, foreign language-guided nighttime tours at South Korea’s Changdeokgung Palace will resume tomorrow, May 28.

Called the ‘Moonlight Tour’, the night-time tour allows visitors to enjoy an evening stroll around the royal palace holding a ‘cheongsachorong’, or a traditional lantern to light the way.

The guided tour is organised by the Cultural Heritage Administration’s Royal Palaces and Tombs Center and the Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation.

While the night-time tour was open to public in 2021 and 2022 as well, it is the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic that foreign visitors will be able to book guided tours in English, Chinese, and Japanese languages.

The foreign language guided tours for foreign tourists and non-Korean speakers will be available on two nights only – May 28 and June 4.

Changdeokgung was designated a Unesco (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) World Heritage Site in 1997. Though damaged, destroyed, rebuilt, and replaced throughout its history, it is known to be the most well-preserved palace of all the royal palaces from the Joseon Dynasty (1392 – 1910).

The palace is the second oldest in Seoul after Gyeongbokgung and was used as a secondary palace when first built. Located east of Gyeongbokgung Palace, it is regarded as a masterpiece of Korean palace architecture.

The Unesco website states that the palace was built following the principles of pungsu-jiri, Korea’s version of Chinese feng shui. It is an ancient architectural principle, which involves the placing or arranging of buildings or other sites auspiciously, based on topography, to bring peace and prosperity.

According to the official website of the palace, it was built in 1405 by King Taejong, the third ruler of Joseon.

“All palaces in Seoul were burnt down during the Japanese invasion in 1592, and Changdeokgung Palace became the first palace to be rebuilt in 1610. Since then, it became the primary palace for about 270 years where 13 kings including the last monarch dealt with state affairs,” says the website.

The palace is also well-known among tourists for the Huwon Secret Garden. The 78-acre garden takes up about sixty per cent of the palace grounds and was used as a place of leisure by members of the royal family.

According to an April 6 article on the South Korean news website koreaherald.com: “[During the tour,] visitors will start at Donhwamun and walk through major buildings such as Injeongjeon, the main hall, and Huijeongdang, the reception hall. Visitors will be treated to the sounds of ‘daegeum,’ a traditional Korean woodwind instrument, and ‘ajaeng,’ a traditional string instrument, at the garden of Nakseonjae.

“Upon entering the Buyongji Pond area, visitors will come across a reenactment of the king and queen walking in the garden.

“A traditional Korean musical performance will also be staged at the Yeongyeongdang Hall, which was built by Crown Prince Hyomyeong as a banquet venue. A traditional dance called ‘Bosangmu’ has been newly added to this year’s program. The dance was created by the crown prince to celebrate the 40th birthday of his mother, Queen Sunwon, in 1828.”

The tour usually takes one and a half hours, and one ticket costs 30,000 won (Dh83.24).

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The weekly service will connect Stewart Airport about an hour north of New York with Vagar Airport, which is the only commercial airport in the Faroes. Atlantic Airways will operate the seven-hour flight weekly from Aug. 22 to Oct. 4, with service to the Faroe Islands on Wednesdays and flights to Stewart on Tuesdays.

“This is something we have been working hard on for quite some time, and we are extremely excited about being able to announce this new historic route connecting the Faroe Islands and the U.S,” said Atlantic Airways CEO Johanna a Bergi. “We are confident of the demand between the U.S. and the Faroe Islands.”

Tickets are now on sale, with roundtrip prices starting at $895. A company representative did not answer an inquiry Thursday afternoon about whether Atlantic Airways distributes through the GDSs. 

The airline will operate the route with an Airbus A320neo. The plane will feature a single cabin of 174 seats, according to the website SeatMaps. 

The remote Faroe Islands comprise 18 volcanic islands in the North Atlantic, between Iceland and Norway. The Norway protectorate draws tourists most notably for its rugged coastlines and dramatic landscape and the outdoor opportunities they offer.

Located in the heart of Europe lies Poland, a country brimming with natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and enchanting cities. From the snow-capped peaks of the Tatra Mountains to the wild, windswept beaches of the Baltic Sea, this is a land of contrasts, where traditional values meet modern sensibilities.

There’re plenty of places for tourists to visit and there is something for just about everyone. Nature lovers? There’s the majestic Tatra Mountains and the untamed Baltic Sea, amont others. History and culture buffs? There are plenty of castles and caves, ancient structures and more to revel in the cultural richness and architectural beauty of Poland’s vibrant cities.

With its vibrant mix of history, art, music, and gastronomy, Poland offers a tapestry of experiences that are waiting to be explored.

Warsaw and Krakow

These two cities are absolute must-sees on any journey through Poland and offer a perfect blend of cultural experiences and access to other regions of the country.

The old town city complexes of Krakow and Warsaw are both Unesco World Heritage Sites, but their stories couldn’t be more different. Krakow’s urban plan has remained virtually unchanged for centuries, making it a unique time capsule of architectural styles from various eras. Today, travelers from all over the world flock to Krakow to soak in the beauty of its stunning buildings.

Warsaw, meanwhile, has a different tale to tell. The city was completely destroyed during the Second World War, but its people were determined to rebuild it to its former glory. Today, it’s a masterpiece of reconstruction, with the old part of the city looking exactly the same as it did before the war. It’s a testament to the resilience and strength of the people of Warsaw, and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and architecture.

Unesco sites

If you’re interested in exploring Unesco World Heritage Sites, then you’re in for a treat this year. Poland has lined up a string of events highlighting some of the most amazing sites in Poland. And the best part? It’s super easy to discover these sites starting from either Krakow or Warsaw.

From Krakow, for instance, you can easily reach sites such as the Wieliczka and Bochnia Royal Salt Mines, the Wooden Churches of South Malopolska, the Tarnowskie Gory Lead-Silver-Zinc Mine and its underground Water Management system, and the Auschwitz-Birkenau Camp. Each of these sites offers a unique glimpse into Poland’s history and culture.

If you’re starting from Warsaw, take a trip to Torun, the Medieval Town and birthplace of the famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus or visit the awe-inspiring Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork. And for those looking for a longer adventure, venture out to the Krzemionki Prehistoric Striped Flint Mining Region or the stunning Bialowieza Forest.

Unspoiled nature

If you’re looking to explore some of the stunning National Parks in Poland, you’re in luck. With 23 National Parks to choose from, there’s no shortage of breathtaking landscapes to discover.

One of the most famous parks is the Bialowieza Forest, the only primeval forest in Europe where the European bison roams free. The wildlife here is truly untamed and best observed from the education trail that winds its way through the terrain. And if you’re in the area, be sure to check out Narwianski and Biebrzanski National Parks as well.

But the beauty of Poland’s national parks isn’t limited to just the countryside. For those staying in Warsaw, the Kampinowski National Park is just a stone’s throw away from the city border. And if you’re based in Krakow, you’ve got easy access to the stunning Ojcowski, Pieninski, Tatrzanski, and Gorczanski National Parks. Each offers a unique landscape and experience, from Ojcowski’s geological structures and caves to Tatrzanski’s magnificent mountains and stunning lakes.

But wait, there’s more! If you’re looking for a green getaway that’s not limited to National Parks, there are plenty of options to choose from. From Krakow, you can venture to mountain resorts in the south of Poland, while those based in Warsaw can explore the beautiful lake district of Mazury. With rolling hills, picturesque countryside, and of course, plenty of lakes to swim in, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely holiday.

Be sure not to miss the Elblaski Canal, which offers a truly unique experience – a cruise over grass.

550th birth anniversary of Nicolaus Copernicus

Let’s talk about Torun, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that’s also the birthplace of the famous astronomer, Nicolaus Copernicus. The Copernicus family’s old tenement house has been transformed into a museum that combines cutting-edge multimedia technology with the medieval atmosphere of the building.

It’s the perfect place to learn about the old and the new, the daily life of a middle-class family in a late Hanseatic household, and of course, the life and work of Nicolaus Copernicus himself. But the fun doesn’t stop there.

Follow the Copernicus trail to explore places where he lived and worked, like Olsztyn, Malbork, Lidzbark Warminski, and Frombork. This region is also famous for its stunning Gothic architecture, including brick castles that served as both governing bodies and fortresses.

More cities to discover

Enjoy exploring cities? You can’t go wrong with Gdansk, Lodz, Wroclaw, or Poznan. Each city has its own unique charm and tells its own fascinating story.

Gdansk, located on the coast, is a city with a rich history spanning over a thousand years.

You can learn all about it by visiting the fascinating museums in the area. And if you’re looking for some unique shopping opportunities, you can’t miss out on learning about amber and visiting St. Dominic Fair.

Lodz, the largest city in Poland aside from Warsaw, is a cultural phenomenon with a diverse population of artists, scientists, and industrialists. It is a modern city that’s still rooted in tradition, with a multicultural heritage that includes Poles, Germans, Jews, and Russians.

Wroclaw, located in the southwest, is a buzzing city with a complex history spanning many centuries. You’ll see reminders of Czech, German, and Polish rule throughout the city, which gives it a unique European feel.

Last but not least, Poznan is a picturesque city that serves as a major economic, scientific, cultural, and tourism hub in Western Poland. It’s home to the country’s most important trade fair complex, so it’s a great spot for both business and pleasure.

Shopping

It’s always great to bring back something special from your travels, but it’s even better when it represents the local culture and traditions. So, when in Poland, what should you look for?

You can’t go wrong with amber and silver. Of course, there are the classic necklaces and shiny gold nuggets, but don’t forget to check out the original pieces created by young artists. And have you heard of the striped flint stone? It’s known as the “stone of optimism” and is becoming popular as a unique and beautiful jewelry material.

Poland is also famous for its stunning glass and faience. Keep an eye out for cobalt-cream from Boleslawiec, which is the perfect example of fine faience.

If you’re looking for something tasty to bring back, go for the slow-food products. When you’re in Torun, make sure to grab some spicy gingerbread to take home with you. It’s a delicious way to savor the flavors of your trip long after you’ve returned home.

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The post Why you need to take time off to explore Poland appeared first on Travel Base Online.

When we read about reconnecting with nature, each of us may have a certain definition or description to go with it.

Mine is, simply put, listening to the sounds of leaves crackling, the wind through the trees, the sounds of busy brooks, and birds and insects chirping. Cliché, you may say. Therapeutic, I will add.

And this is what you will find in abundance in Bali: the possibility to merge and connect with nature in a manner that you will remain in your memory forever.

I knew I would love Bali. It was meant to be. I’d heard stories about this tropical island paradise. And I was not disappointed when I finally travelled to the island destination- solo- early this year.

For a solo traveller, Bali offers everything you may seek – great food, safety, a certain serenity, peace of mind, time to unwind and reflect, as well as the chance to explore a culture that is as exotic as it is exquisite.

Bali is perhaps most popular amongst honeymooning couples. However, from what I have observed this island destination has something for everyone – couples, families, babymooners, honeymooners, elderly, surfers, hikers, yogis, artists, business folk, and solo travellers – so long as they enjoy nature in its raw form.

The landscapes cater to multiple tastes as well – mountains, rice terrace fields, beaches, forests, hills, valleys, waterfalls, party spots, retail havens and also cultural and heritage districts.

I split my stay into two – one in Ubud, which lies in the heart of Bali, and the second in Semminyak – a coastal beach side district.

My calling, however, was at Ubud – the cultural, albeit touristic destination which has a tropical atmosphere, reminiscent of my hometown Kerala, and its nearby cousin, Goa.

Quite like the pictures on social media, Ubud is a stunner. The rice fields and terraced paddies are beautiful, but clearly, no photograph would do justice to the sights you get to see and savour in person.

Bali has no dearth of stunning hotels and resort, including some of the most exquisite properties in the world. That said, to experience true Bali is to experience Balinese hospitality in its vulnerability.

My AirBnB booking proved satisfactory to this claim. Reasonable, clean, convenient, and cosy, the options available are mindboggling. I chose one that offered a view of a fully grown fruit tree, and I wasn’t complaining.

As is typical in many Balinese hotel rooms, there was a four-poster bed, a semi-open bathroom, sliding glass doors, and wooden flooring. The best thing about the place however was the sense of safety. I was welcomed warmly by my host, and throughout my stay in Ubud, he and his family ensured that I was comfortable and happy. The breakfast spread, thrown in as a free service, was one indication!

Moving around Ubud is easy. You can rent a bike (which I did, from my host who was kind enough to lend it to me for a discounted rate), or walk (which I did as well, through beautiful paddy fields as recommended by my considerate host), or taxi – which is not recommended at all as you will really miss out on the essence of the district then.

My host, Nyoman (a pretty common name in Ubud) is also a taxi driver, and as well as picking me from the airport, he also took me on a day’s trip around the island.

On my tour, I visited the Taman Sari waterfalls, the ancient 11th century temple Candi Tebung Gunung Kawi. The path to the temple had a stairway that cut through a paddy field, all the way down to heavy vegetation and mountain springs. Three large rocky structures were the backdrop to a calm and soothing temple premise.

My next stop was Mount Batur, where I sat at a busy restaurant overlooking the grand volcanic mountain. When the weather is better, volcanic trails and hikes are organised.

Balancing all the wonderment with something not too pleasant was my trip to visit a luwak farm where the infamous luwak coffee is made. Luwak coffee “consists of partially digested coffee cherries, which have been eaten and defecated by the Asian palm civet”, according to a pamphlet I read at the farm. Personally, I did not enjoy this experience as it was heart-breaking to see civets caged for the process of extracting the coffee beans.

On the way back to Ubud, we also passed by orange orchards and plenty of colourful stalls selling exotic fruits that Bali is so famous for, like durian, mangosteen, rambutan, snake fruit, duku, oranges, mangos, coconuts, and more.

Just before reaching the homestay, we stopped to experience the beautiful Tegelalang rice terraces – where we got to walk through the terraced fields and soak up the sun and smells of the soil, both.

In a word, the experience was mind-opening.

On my third and last day in Ubud, I rented a bike and puttered along the winding roads letting the breeze sift through my hair. Apart from enjoying the countryside, I also hoped, like quite a few people who visit Bali, to find myself.

I experienced some interesting cultural sights as well, such as the Ramayana and barong dance performances at the Pura Dalem – the temple of death, which was all too mystical and colourful.

I didn’t stray too far from Ubud, and decided to restrain my sight seeing to the Monkey Forest which was, quite like the name, full of monkeys in their thick, green jungle; the Pura Saraswati (temple of Saraswati) and the Ubud Art Fair where you can bargain your way into purchasing a room full of souvenirs and knick-knacks that you may have little to no use for. That said, if you are an art lover, you may find some hidden gems to bring back home.

The city tour, I did on my own, walking through the fields, enjoying the breeze and heat in the air both at once, and making short stops at anything that looked touristy.

Another activity is to explore the many walking trails on the ridges across Ubud – with birds, insects, brooks, leaves and paddy for company. Again, you cannot get more steeped in nature than a walk like this.

I left Ubud for Kuta-Semminyak, which lies in the south of Bali, close to the international airport. Kuta is a party zone, clubs and cafes and discotheques lining the roads like a beaded necklace. Situated on the shores of the sea, this also brings in the beach-side party goers and surfers. Next to Kuta is Semminyak, which is another party hub, and also a shopping haven for those looking for colourful beach and party wear.

While here, I embarked on a day’s trip to Uluwatu Temple which is perched on a cliff, looking out into a beautiful blue sea with white frothy waves lashing at the shores.

The temple has a long walkway with the sea on one side and a mildly dense forest on the other side, with plenty of monkeys for company. At sunset, this walk and the sea breeze is, in a word, therapeutic.

Can Bali be experienced in 5 days? You can, but you shouldn’t. There is a lot more of Bali than I experienced. The north, east and west; the hiking trails; the many temples; the cultural richness; the mountains; paddy fields; the architecture, the caves, the waterfalls…

All boxes ticked off. Enjoyed experiences, food had, smiled hard, pleased heart and returned home vowing to go back because beautiful Bali still has a piece of my heart.

So, at the end of it all, did I find myself?

Guess, I need to make another trip.

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The post Here's why Bali, in Indonesia, is a magnet for tourists appeared first on Travel Base Online.

Abu Dhabi: In his capacity as Ruler of Abu Dhabi, UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan issued an Emiri decree appointing Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed as Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

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• UAE president appoints Mansour bin Zayed as UAE Vice President
• Sheikh Hazza, Sheikh Tahnoun appointed Deputy Rulers of Abu Dhabi
• UAE President issues Emiri decree to restructure Abu Dhabi Executive Council

In his capacity as Ruler of Abu Dhabi, His Highness has also issued two Emiri decrees appointing Hazza bin Zayed as Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and Tahnoun bin Zayed as Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi.

Profiles of newly appointed leaders

• Sheikh Khaled: Rise of the leader over the years
• Sheikh Mansour: Profile of new UAE Vice-President
• Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Hazza began his career at State Security Department
• Sheikh Tahnoun: Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi: With the approval of the UAE Federal Supreme Council, UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan issued a resolution, appointing Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court, as the country’s second Vice President, to serve alongside His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice -President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

READ MORE

• UAE President appoints Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed as Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi
• Sheikh Hazza, Sheikh Tahnoun appointed Deputy Rulers of Abu Dhabi
• UAE President issues Emiri decree to restructure Abu Dhabi Executive Council

In his capacity as the Ruler of Abu Dhabi, the UAE President issued two Emiri decrees appointing Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan as deputy Rulers of Abu Dhabi.

Sheikh Mohamed also appointed Sheikh Khalid bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi by an Emiri decree issued in his capacity as Ruler of Abu Dhabi.

Profiles of newly appointed leaders

• Sheikh Khaled: Rise of the leader over the years
• Sheikh Mansour: Profile of new UAE Vice-President
• Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Hazza began his career at State Security Department
• Sheikh Tahnoun: Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi:  In his capacity as the Ruler of Abu Dhabi, the UAE President has issued two Emiri decrees appointing Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Deputy Rulers of Abu Dhabi.

Prior to this appointement Sheilkh Tahnoun was National Security Adviser. Sheikh Hazza was vice chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council. 

• UAE President appoints Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed as Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi
• UAE president appoints Mansour bin Zayed as UAE Vice President
• UAE President issues Emiri decree to restructure Abu Dhabi Executive Council

In his capacity as Ruler of Abu Dhabi, UAE President also issued an Emiri decree appointing Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed as Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

Profiles of newly appointed leaders

• Sheikh Khaled: Rise of the leader over the years
• Sheikh Mansour: Profile of new UAE Vice-President
• Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Hazza began his career at State Security Department
• Sheikh Tahnoun: Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Khaled was born on January 8, 1982 in Abu Dhabi. He is an eldest son ofUAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

SheikhKhaled graduated from the American University of Sharjah (BSc, International Relations) and from King’s College London with a PhD from the Department of War Studies in 2014.

Sheikh Khaled was appointed as Chairman of the National Commission for the security of electronic management in 2015. He was appointed as chairman of the State Security Department, with the rank of Minister in 2016.

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• UAE President appoints Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed as Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi
• UAE President names Sheikh Khalid Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mansour as Vice President
• UAE president appoints Mansour bin Zayed as UAE Vice President
• Sheikh Hazza, Sheikh Tahnoun appointed Deputy Rulers of Abu Dhabi
• UAE President issues Emiri decree to restructure Abu Dhabi Executive Council

Sheikh Khaled was appointed as Deputy National Security Adviser, with the rank of minister on January 16, 2017.

Sheikh Khaled was appointed a member of Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Office in 2019. He was appointed as Board of Directors of Adnoc in 2021.

He was an author of the Three Islands mapping the UAE-Iran dispute a book detailing the Seizure of Abu Musa and the Greater and Lesser Tunbs which was published in 2013.

Sheikh Khaled has witnessed the signing of the agreement between the Abu Dhabi Government and the XPRIZE Foundation, the global leader in incentivized prize competitions, in the presence of a number of government leaders and strategic partners. The contract is the major authority corporation until today for XPRIZE.

Shaikh Khaled has inaugurated newly renovated Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation, most prominent cultural landmarks. The Cultural Foundation’s new spaces include a 900-seat theatre and the all-new Abu Dhabi Children’s Library.

Shaikh Khaled was involved in the launching of the Saadiyat Grove in Abu Dhabi and Jebel Hafit Desert Park in Al Ain.

Sheikh Khaled has launched the Abu Dhabi Mangrove Initiative along with Prince William at Jubail Mangrove Park in Abu dhabi in February 2022. Sheikh Khaled and Prince William also discussed their work on globally impactful sustainability initiatives, and were briefed on the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi’s ongoing work to protect the environment and enhance biodiversity.

He has named and inaugurated the street formerly known as Al Sough Street, after late urban planner of Abdul Rahman Makhlouf. Renaming the street after the former Director of the Urban Planning honours his role in shaping Abu Dhabi’s early urban development during the 1960s and 1970s.

SheikhKhaled has launched the Abu Dhabi IPO Fund to act as a catalyst to strengthen Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX)’s position as a leading stock market in October 2021.

He inaugurated the new coding school that offers tuition-free, peer-to-peer learning – 42 Abu Dhabi is the first GCC campus of the internationally renowned 42 Network of coding schools in October 2021.

In December 2008, he was married to Sheikha Surour Bin Mohammad Al Nahyan and has a son and two daughters.

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