Travel Plus I Spring 2015

SPECIAL REPORT

SPRING 2015

DiscoverThainess

MANYFACES OFBEAUTY

NamibiaEndlessHorizons

SERBIA

TRAVEL PLUSMIDDLE EAST

Vol 1 - Issue 2SPRING 2015

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SPECIAL REPORT

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DiscoverThainess

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NamibiaEndlessHorizons

SERBIA

Travel Plus Middle East 3

GOOD wORDS go as far as wordsgo, but they don’t really do Namibia’stop attractions justice. There simply isno frame of reference, nothing thatcomes close to seeing the sunset atSossusvlei, spending the day playing atSwakopmund or visiting the Himba inDamaraland. You have to experience ityourself. And then encourage others todo the same.SossusvleiSossusvlei means ‘the gathering placeof water’ though seldom will you findwater here. Instead you’ll find thehighest sand dunes in the world andperhaps Namibia’s most outstandingscenic attraction.

These dunes, part of the NamibDesert, have developed over a periodof many millions of years. The resultof material flowing from the OrangeRiver dumped into the Atlantic Ocean,carried northward and then returnedagain to land by the surf. Here thewind continuously shifts the sandfurther and further inland, reshapingpatterns in warm tints that contrastvividly with the dazzling white surfaceof the large deflationary clay pans attheir bases. Climbing up one of thesedunes provides breathtaking views ofthe whole area, including Deadvlei,a large ghostly expanse of driedwhite clay punctuated by skeletons ofancient camelthorn trees, carbon datedbetween 500-600 years old.

The best time to view Sossusvlei is closeto sunrise and sunset when the dunesrefract spectacular colours, ranging fromburnt orange, red and deep mauve. It’s aphotographer’s dream.Etosha National ParkToday’s Etosha National Park wasclaimed as Namibia’s first conservationarea in 1907. One of Africa’s bestgame reserves, its eastern territory isdominated by a vast, shallow pan ofsilvery sand while the rest of the park iscovered with sparse shrubs, grassy plainsand hilly mopane woodlands — a totalof 22,000 square kilometres. During thedry season, tens of thousands of animalsconverge to drink at the waterholes— elephant, giraffe, rhino and lion,possibly leopard, cheetah and muchmore. Luckily, the park was designedto make viewing such game easy. Goodroads, signposts and plenty of lookoutsmake Etosha perfect for self-drive tours,and the three rest camps of Okaukuejo,Halali and Namutoni offer many choiceswhen it comes to lodging. You’ll alsofind restaurants, stores and otherservices in the vicinity.

Seeing vast herds of game againstthis backdrop, referred to in the localvernacular as ‘the great white placeof dry water’ makes the Etosha gameviewing experience truly unique. It’s amust see.Swakopmund and walvis baySwakopmund is Namibia’s playground,

Endless HorizonsPeople use all sorts of words to describeNamibia's landscape: Vast, magnificent,endless, unimaginable, among others

destination

a holiday destination for tourists and locals alike looking toescape the heat of the interior and to have a little adventure.

The city itself resembles a small German town and managesto create a feeling of timelessness with its palm-lined streets,seaside promenades, restaurants, cafes, art galleries andmuseums. And while there’s plenty to do within city limits, thereal action happens in the desert surrounding Swakopmund.Quad-biking, sand-boarding, sand-skiing, parasailing anddozens of other guided adrenaline inducing activitiesare available by reservation from many of the adventurecompanies operating in the area. At Walvis Bay, visitors canjoin a dolphin cruise or explore the lagoon on a kayak tour.

Even with all this excitement Swakopmund serves as a goodbreak during a busy vacation. Relax and have fun in a placewell suited for both.Damaraland and KaokoveldDamaraland and Kaokoveld demand a certain level of respect.Beautiful, but arid and unforgiving, attractions near thisarea have names like Burnt Mountain, the Petrified Forest,the Skeleton Coast — all aptly named and an indication ofthe drama found here. Occupying a huge, harsh stretch oflandscape to the northwest of the country, even the peopleand wildlife have adapted accordingly.

The Himba, a tall, slender and statuesque people, rub theirbodies with red ochre and fat to protect their skins against theclimate. Desert adapted elephants have special behaviouralcharacteristics, large annual and seasonal ranges and a socialstructure and daily activities to cope with the environment.

Thankfully for visitors, there are many great desertaccommodation options, which means you don't have to roughit in Damaraland and Kaokoveld in the slightest.Fish River CanyonThe Fish River Canyon is the second largest natural gorge inthe world and the largest in Africa. Set in a harsh, stony plaindotted with drought resistant succulents, such as the distinctivequiver tree or kokerboom, the canyon is a truly spectacularnatural phenomenon.

Formed over 500 million years ago, Fish River Canyon wascreated not only by water erosion, but through the collapseof the valley bottom due to movements in the earth’s crust.It drops vertically by half a kilometre without any warning.And as with most rivers in Namibia, the Fish River is generallydry except in the rainy season, from January to April.

Beyond being a great place to take amazing photographs,the Fish River Canyon has become a popular hiking destination.The most popular trail, the aptly named Fish River Hiking Trail,is a four-day, 86 km expedition open from May to Septemberrequiring a doctor’s approval to participate. With no servicesexcept for at the beginning and end, it’s obviously not for thefaint of heart.TwyfelfonteinTo the west of Khorixas is Twyfelfontein, a massive open-air artgallery carved into red rock by ancient Bushmen overlookingan expansive valley below. The engravings, some estimated tobe 6,000 years old, record the wildlife seen in area — giraffe,

4 Spring 2015


rhinoceros, elephants, ostrich, even a lion depicted witha 90 degree kink in its tail. It is believed by many that thecreators incised their engravings as a means of entering thesupernatural world and recording their shamanic experienceamong the spirits. Whatever the meaning, the site wasawarded world heritage status in 2008.

As the mid-day heat makes it difficult to photograph theetchings, the best time to visit Twyfelfontein is in the morning.Second place goes to late afternoon or early evening with thepromise of an excellent sunset.CapriviCaprivi is a narrow strip of land in the far northeast ofNamibia. About 400 km long, it protrudes from the rest ofthe country like a finger, owns a very unique history andshares borders with four other countries — Angola, Botswana,Zambia and Zimbabwe. This is the wettest region of Namibiaby a great margin and consists mostly of extensive wetlands,floodplains, woodlands and rivers, like the Okavango andZambezi. This habitat sustains a large variety of animal andbird species. Spectacular herds of elephant, buffalo, red lechweand reedbuck are among the highlights of any game viewingexperience. But be careful, the waters are also home to five-metre long crocodiles and families of hippopotamus, whichventure onto the floodplains at night to feed.

Other attractions include Popa Falls, which are more rapidsthan waterfall, but nonetheless impressive as they ragethrough a four-metre high rocky riverbed intrusion amongstbeautiful scenery.Skeleton CoastOnce upon a time the entire coastline of Namibia was calledThe Skeleton Coast. Today, the moniker mostly refers to theSkeleton National Park, which stretches the northern one-third of Namibia’s shore. The landscape in the park rangesfrom wind swept dunes to rugged canyons with walls of richlycoloured volcanic rock and extensive mountain ranges.

The park’s ominous name is well earned given the scores ofshipwrecks littering the beaches — the work of the BenguelaCurrent, dense fog and rough surf. Bleached whale and sealbones also are visible back from days when the whalingindustry was still active. But despite its appearance, theSkeleton National Park houses a great variety of species withinits borders — big cats, desert-adapted elephant, black rhinoand many more.

Fish River Canyon was created notonly by water erosion, but throughthe collapse of the valley bottom dueto movements in the earth’s crust.

Recently named by Lonely Planet as one of the top 10 countries in theworld for travellers, Serbia is a land of remarkable beauty and charmAlthough clAssified as a medium-sized country, Serbiapresents an incredibly diverse and beautiful range of naturallandscapes — from wide plains and high mountains toundulating hills and river valleys, gorges and lakes. Serbiantowns and cities too are endlessly fascinating in their diversity.The myriad influences of the history of this region, located atthe geographical frontier between East and West, have left alasting impression not only on the visible face of the cities butalso on the spirit of its inhabitants — Serbs have a warm andwelcoming nature, which is characteristic of a nation shapedby a diffused culture.

iMAgiNe PARAdiseThe Serbian countryside has plenty to offer to those whoseek the tranquillity and primordial pulse of life, which canonly be found in a true return to nature. One such place isTara National Park, which is known for its beautiful peaks,enchanting forests and the massive Drina River Gorge.The national park’s fabulous views and pristine atmospheremoved even the visiting head of the European Centre forNature Conservation, who famously exclaimed: “This is how Iimagine paradise”.

Summers at Tara National Park can be spent strolling,riding a bicycle, or exploring the mountain expanses with aprofessional ranger who will guide you to hidden places andreveal the secrets of the local flora and fauna. Boat trips are

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organised to the spectacular gorge of the Drina and there aregreat rafting and camping routes along the lower course ofthe fast moving mountain river.

MIRACLE ON ŠARGANAnother gem of Western Serbia is the Mokra Gora Nature Park,which has earned a global reputation, thanks to the touristrailway Šarganska Osmica (Šargan Eight). Construction of anarrow gauge railway connecting Belgrade with the AdriaticSea in the first half of the 20th century was halted due to theinsurmountable climb of the mountain pass at Šargan. Therailway was completed nevertheless thanks to the ingenuityof engineers who solved the elevation problem by setting thetracks in looping circles. Today, the tourist train "Nostalgia"traverses these “figure eights”, passing through breathtakingmountain scenery, numerous tunnels and bridges.

The Šargan pass is home to another wonder. Whileshooting the film “Life is Miracle”, celebrated director EmirKusturica discovered a picturesque hill and chose to constructhis “Drvengrad” (Woodentown) here. A traditional ethno-village and tourist complex, where comfortable interiors, acinema, and even an indoor swimming pool are located withinauthentic mountain log cabins, Mokra Gora is an intimate andsecluded place where you could easily come across some worldfamous film stars who are frequent guests of the director.

MOUNTAIN OF THE SUNOn the peaks of Kopaonik, the largest mountain range incentral Serbia, is the national park of the same name and the

most popular winter attraction in the country. Kopaonik isthe largest ski centre in Serbia and one of the most beautifultourist destinations in this part of Europe — with over 200sunny days and 160 days under snow cover through the year.Pancic’s Peak, the symbol of the mountain, is the highest pointat 2,017 metres above sea level, and the panoramic view fromhere is truly spectacular.

The top-class terrains of the ski centre feature approximately62 km of slopes for downhill and cross-country skiing,providing immense enjoyment for all categories of skiers.The ski centre features a well-arranged snowboard park, whilesafari skiing, a special ski challenge beyond the tailored runs,is organised for adventure seekers.

SNOW GAMESKopaonik is very popular among young people for its fun andentertainment offerings. In addition to sledging and ice-skating, families with kids can enjoy a great variety of gamesand activities in the snow park. If you're looking for somegreat nightlife to compliment your active holiday on the snow,look no further. Kopaonik has a buzzing après ski scene thatis developing a reputation to match its excellent skiing. MKMountain Resort is situated at the very heart of the touristcentre, providing direct access to the slopes.

THE MAGNIFICENT DANUBELinking numerous European countries on the final sectionof its middle flow, the Danube makes its way through therocky massifs of the Carpathian Mountains, forming the Iron


Perucica: The last primeval forests of Europe

Mountain biking The House on the Drina River has been attracting travellers

Fascinantno: The Danube Iron Gate

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Gate or Đerdap Gorge along the border between Serbiaand Romania. In terms of beauty, this gorge is unrivalledanywhere in Europe. And it was here that cultures emerged

Summers at Tara National Park can be spent strolling, riding a bicycle, orexploring the mountain expanses with a professional ranger who will guideyou to hidden places and reveal the secrets of the local flora and fauna

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8 Spring 2015

and laid the foundations for European civilisation. RomanEmperor Trajan was the first man in history to unlock the"Iron Gate" of the powerful river by building a road andbridge that was considered an architectural wonder of theworld for a thousand years. Along with the visible remainsof his construction, his words remained recorded here: It ismagnificent to stand on the bank of the Danube.

MERGER OF NATURE ANd CIVILISATIONAfter the medieval Golubac Fortress and the famous Lepenskivir prehistoric site, the right bank of the Danube showcasessome of the best natural and cultural sites of Eastern Serbia.The Đerdap National Park, with its forest reserves, numerouspaths and viewing areas — which offer stunning vistas of thewhirlpools of the Danube — is a place to take in the fresh air,enjoy bird watching and discover the beauty of the woods. Inaddition to the natural attractions, the river banks are dottedwith fascinating traces of ancient civilisations, some of whichhave been nominated for inclusion on the list of world culturalheritage sites.

One of the best ways to see this part of Serbia is on boarda cruise boat. The Aquastar Maksim offers a nine-hour rivercruise with spectacular views of estuaries, medieval fortressesand beautiful gorges, with first-class service and entertainmenton deck.

Golubac: Medieval fortress on the Danube

Meanders of the Uvac River

Horse riding in Vojvodina

Belvedere in the Tara National park

DYNAMIC CITIES — BELGRADE AND NOVI SADThough Belgrade holds the title of the world’s nightlife capital,the city has a diverse tourist offering — cultural routes throughhistoric quarters, city sightseeing from the rivers, out-of-town excursions, and a lot more. Just eighty kilometres fromBelgrade, lies Novi Sad, another popular destination for a citybreak. More relaxed than Belgrade, Novi Sad has a specialcharm — an old city centre, a magnificent baroque fortress, anexceptional “slow food” culture, and top beverages from theslopes of Fruška Gora.

CAPITAL OF UNRIVALLED ENTERTAINMENTIn 2010, Lonely Planet awarded Belgrade the title of partycapital, but this is not the only recommendation. The Guardian,The New York Times, The Observer and others have all writtenabout this city that never sleeps. Besides young people, theSerbian capital is increasingly visited by older, wealthier andmore famous guests. Belgrade is unique for its raft bars andrestaurants on the Sava and Danube rivers. The city has topclubs that are popular during winter; while the warmer seasonsees the crowds move to open spaces.

The culinary story, like the city itself, is cosmopolitan.The old port, today known as Beton Hala, houses a collectionof elite restaurants with great live performances. Theunavoidable pulsing metropolitan area is the SavamalaCreative District, a new stronghold of design and alternativeclubs, while Skadarska Street preserves its bohemian tradition.However, the secret ingredient of the popularity of Belgrade

as party hotspot are the citizens of Belgrade themselves, whowith their friendly nature and zest for life provide a definingand unforgettable atmosphere.

WEST OF THE EASTMany old and modern travel writers have variously describedBelgrade as a place where the East and the West intermingle.It is precisely this trait that attracts travellers “who are seekingsomething different in a familiar urban landscape”. It isobligatory for any exploratory tour of the city to begin from its

CITYBREAKS


Belgrade: Republic Square

Novi Sad, panorama Dunava

most beautiful spot — the plateau overlooking the confluenceof the rivers Sava and Danube — home to the ancient BelgradeFortress. From the fortress, one is connected to the pedestrianzone and shopping hub of Knez Mihailova Street and thento the monumental Temple of Saint Sava, the Royal PalaceComplex and Avala Tower. One of the city’s quarters thattestifies vividly to the meeting of cultures is old Zemun, whichstill exudes the atmosphere of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.Belgrade offers various themed tourist itineraries, the mostpopular of which are the river cruise sightseeing programmes.

SOURCE OF HEALTH And EnJOYMEnTNot far from Belgrade is Bukovicka Spa, one of the mostbeautiful in the country. The spa was founded two centuriesago by Serbian ruler Prince Miloš Obrenovic. Josip Broz Tito,legendary President of Yugoslavia, opened the most attractivehotel of his era here — the "Izvor", which today belongs tothe first chain of luxury hotels in Serbia (A-hotels). Built intothe hotel is a unique wellness centre, which offers a variety ofrelaxation programmes based on the use of medicinal mineralwater. This magnificent facility also includes an attractiveaqua park.

SMART And CASUAL CITYApart from Belgrade, another major draw is Novi Sad, a citywith a completely contrasting atmosphere and an exceptionalculinary tradition. Its harmonious architecture and smoothnesshave been shaped by many nations. Tours of the Old Town,Danube Street, the Square of Galleries, and the Museum ofVojvodina provide an insight into why it is called a cradleof culture and enlightenment. The pulse of the city is feltpalpably in the hidden labyrinths of commercial passagewaysand clubs that often host parties. Synonymous with partying inNovi Sad is Laze Telekog Street. The monumental Petrovaradin

Fortress, also known as “The Queen of Baroque” is the reasonNovi Sad is dubbed Gibraltar on the Danube. Close to thecity, Sremski Karlovci is a town also known for its baroquearchitecture and rich culture.

WELLnESS And FRUITIt is important to note that Novi Sad has extraordinarysurroundings, primarily the Fruška Gora National Park, whichholds a wealth of natural and cultural treasures. One of themost highly recommended places within this national parkis Vrdnik Spa. The healing properties of thermal water inharmony with the fresh air, and the relaxing treatments atthe elite Premier Aqua Wellness Centre are guaranteed toinvigorate both body and soul. With buffet tables stockedwith apples, apricots, grapes and other fruit grown on theplantations of Fruška Gora, we symbolically conclude thisjourney through Serbia, which offers you a warm welcome.

Though Belgrade holds the titleof the world’s nightlife capital, thecity has a diverse tourist offering

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Belgrade has six bridges on the Sava river

Belgrade Parliament Building

— Milena Mihaljcic

Listed among the top 10 trend destinations of 2015 byLonely Planet, Serbia is stepping up its effort to welcometravellers from the UAE. The opening of new routes and theannouncement of a visa waiver for UAE nationals have seen athirty per cent increase in tourist arrivals from the Emirates inrecent months.

“Serbia is an intriguing, exciting and unexpecteddestination, which needs to be fully discovered by touristsfrom the UAE,” says Gordana Plamenac, CEO, National TourismOrganisation of Serbia (NTOS). “Serbia’s tourist offering is richand diverse. The nightlife of the Serbian capital city, Belgrade,is vibrant and lively in contrast to the serene, relaxing,tranquility of its provinces. Don’t miss out on a destination thatinspires visitors from all over the world. You will be pleasantlysurprised.”

NTOS is a government organisation promoting tourism ofthe Republic of Serbia in both domestic and foreign markets.In order to ensure that Serbia is included in world travelitineraries and to consolidate bilateral cooperation in thefield of tourism development, NTOS’s promotion activitiesare conducted through participation in international tourismtrade shows and fairs; cooperation with international mediaand travel industry representatives; online and social mediacommunication; and active membership in a number ofinternational and regional tourism associations.

“We are actively promoting Serbia as a holiday destination

in the UAE market.In January, we held apromotion event inDubai to showcaseSerbia’s potential as atourism and investmentdestination. This eventwas supported by theSerbian Embassy andSerbian Business Councilin Abu Dhabi and wasvery well received,” saysPlamenac. NTOS hasalso prepared tourismbrochures in Arabic andwill be participatingin the Arabian TravelMarket Exhibition, Dubai,from May 4 to 7, 2015.

Serbia has also madesignificant investmentstowards the developmentof its tourism sector,mainly in hotels and thenew airline Air Serbia,

which was established through a strategic partnership betweenthe Serbian government and Etihad Airways. “With Air Serbia,Etihad Airways and Fly Dubai offering 18 flights per week toBelgrade from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Serbia is now within easyreach,” Plamenac adds.

air serbia, thenational airline of theRepublic of Serbia, waslaunched on October26, 2013. Its history andtradition however datesback to 1927, when itspredecessor Aeroputwas established.

Today, with a newname and a newidentity, Air Serbia isredefining the conceptof comfort and servicein the air, whilstcontinuing to grow its

network and global reach. Currently, the airline serves morethan 40 destinations across Europe, the Mediterranean andthe Middle East directly from its hub at Belgrade’s NikolaTesla International Airport, providing both passenger andcargo services. Air Serbia has an additional 29 destinations,offered through its codeshare partners, Etihad Airways,airberlin, Etihad Regional, TAROM and Aeroflot.

With daily services to Abu Dhabi in partnership with

equity partner Etihad Airways, Air Serbia also offers itsguests long-haul destinations to Asia and Australia. Theairline currently operates a fleet of 10 narrow-bodied (eightAirbus A319 and two Airbus A320) and five turbopropaircraft (three ATR 72-200 and two ATR 72-500), with theairbus fleet offering Air Serbia’s highly acclaimed dedicatedBusiness Class product, one of the best in Europe.

In addition to the Air Serbia-scheduled fleet, in May 2014,Air Serbia launched its dedicated charter brand – Aviolet— which flies to over 20 attractive summer destinationsin Egypt, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey. The Aviolet fleetconsists of four Boeing B737-300 aircraft.

Air Serbia has been a member of the International AirTransport Association (IATA) since 1961.The airline is amember of the Etihad Airways Partners grouping, togetherwith Etihad Airways, Alitalia, Jet Airways, airberlin, NIKI, AirSeychelles and Etihad Regional.

Air Serbia is also part of the Etihad Guest loyaltyprogramme, together with Etihad Airways, Air Seychellesand Etihad Regional. Air Serbia guests enjoy benefitsof reward flights, flight upgrades, reward shop, familymembership and the option to convert Etihad Guest miles tocash, which can be spent at a variety of outlets worldwide.

Serbia has seen a sharp increasein visitor arrivals from the UAE

europe's best kept secret

Gordana Plamenac, CEO,National Tourism Organisation ofSerbia (NTOS)


NEw wiNGS Of EurOPE

Marjan Island Resort & Spa

Ideal luxury familydestination

SuRRounded by breathtaking views of the shimmeringwaters of the Arabian Gulf, Marjan Island Resort & Spa isideally located on Ras Al Khaimah’s iconic Marjan Island — apicturesque archipelago comprised of four man-made islandsthat lie just 45 minutes away from Dubai. The newest luxuryresort in the rising emirate is designed to evoke the gloriousheritage of Andalusia and offers impeccable service standardscombined with a distinctive style that reflects its tradition ofArabian hospitality.

Marjan Island Resort & Spa features elegant Moorisharchitecture that blends with modern comfort and anidyllic location to create a perfect haven of exclusivity andtranquility. Experience an unforgettable stay in one of its301 spacious rooms and suites with unrivalled service andindulgent amenities – all with the Arabian touch. Choose froma sophisticated selection of accommodations: Superior andPremium Rooms, Family Rooms, 1-bedroom suite, 2-bedroomsuites, 3-bedroom suites, 5-bedroom suites and get transportedto the legendary lifestyle of Andalusia’s past. Rooms and suitesare large and spacious with well-appointed bathrooms, latestentertainment, separate seating areas and complimentaryhigh-speed internet.

Culinary optionsCasa Maghrib, which means the House of Morocco, invitesyou to embark on an enchanting journey of discovery throughthe 1001 flavours and fragrance of Moroccan gastronomyin an authentic atmosphere on the Island’s waterfront. Therestaurant offers fine and casual dining with the essence ofMorocco in every bite. Savour the fantastic taste of specialtiessuch as tantalising Tagines, Couscous and Pastillas from thea la carte menu or let the chef guide you through a sensory

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Designed to evoke the gloriousheritage of Andalusia, MarjanIsland Resort & Spa is a havenof tranquility

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exploration of Moroccan Classics with the exclusive set menus.While savouring the finest traditional Moroccan tea and

shishas, enjoy the relaxing and sociable atmosphere of theAmouage Shisha Terrace — the closest spot to the seafront —surrounded by the entrancing sounds of waves lapping on theshore. For all-day dining, distinct cooking theatres at Al Liwanserve up European, international and regional experienceswith a fresh approach to quality dining.

Zaitouna House, located on the waterfront promenade,is the perfect place for al fresco dining and get-togetherswith a truly Lebanese and Levant flavour. The smart casualrestaurant and terrace offers first-rate mezzes or the mostlavish “grillades” along with memorable sunsets and is theplace to be for late evening island lounging and light snacking.Zaitouna also serves fresh fish, giving diners exciting newflavours and selections.

Revitalise and renew‘La’mar’ meaning liquid gold is home of a 1,000 square-metre idyllic oasis of tranquility, where your inner energy isrevitalised and your outer glow restored. Opulently designed,merging authentic touches of Arabia in treatments with “Eastmeets West” holistic rituals, the spa has separate ladies and

Ideal luxury familydestination

Marjan Island Resort & Spa

gents sections, one resplendent dual spa suite, and one VIPtreatment room that offers heated quartz sand therapy andprivate hydro bath, both overlooking the sea; as well as a fullservice ladies beauty salon.

Discover a sense of well-being with tailored treatments tocreate a true sensory experience with skilled therapists. Choosefrom one of the sublime Ayurvedic, Thai or relaxing massagerituals, personalised face and body treatments or a traditionalTurkish, Moroccan or signature hammam, and wind down inone of the jacuzzis and sea view relaxation areas.

The spa’s uniqueness is reflected in a new dimension ofwellness hospitality with its dedicated Spa Retreat Floor, wherespa professionals, trained specialist and nutritionists guideregulars for weight loss, detoxifying and specialised beautyskincare programmes.

Man SpaceYour newest top class space for “gents only”, with treatmentsfocused on hair care, shaving, facials, hand and foot care.


Man Space uses the highest performance cosmetic linesavailable today — Comfort Zone and Davines — and ensures amarvellous transformation inside and out making you look andfeel your best.

Tranquility meets dynamismRelax and soak up the sun while you watch the little onessplash around the children’s pool and make new friends at theplaygrounds. Children will discover fun and leisure at “PiratesClub” with the latest games for toddlers and teenagers fromages three to 15. The resort offers one outdoor swimmingpool and a secluded ladies-only swimming pool as well asa gentlemen’s pool. It also features a fully equipped gym,jacuzzi, and steam rooms for both genders. Sun seekers andsea lovers can treat themselves to a variety of water sportactivities such as snorkelling, banana boat and doughnut rides,wakeboarding, bodyboarding, windsurfing, parasailing andwaterskiing.

The island resort is geared to attract families as well aswellness and sports minded guests on the lookout for a cleanand environmentally friendly beach destination. Families,adults and children have a chance to stroll down the Corniche,a 1.2-kilometre waterfront boardwalk, or ride a bike to enjoythe fresh air, sunset views and serenity of a true island feel.

For booking call +971 7 2036500 oremail [email protected]

www.marjanislandresort.com

Al MontAzAh – Amusement and Water Park: Formerlyknown as Al Jazeera Park, the recently renovated Al Montazahis the first-ever all-in-one family entertainment destination,spread over an impressive 126,000 square metres, and offersthrilling water rides and a leisure park in the very heart of thecity. It also prides itself in maintaining the best internationalsafety standards, with the highest-level aesthetic values and aworld-class infrastructure.

the Water Park: The Water Park is the first of its kind inSharjah. It provides world-class facilities and water rides forpeople of all ages along lush green areas. Safety and protectionservices are considered of utter importance, and teams oftrained and efficient lifeguards are at their posts at all times.

the Amusement Park: The Amusement Park offers avariety of electronic games for all ages. Amenities include kartracing, two mini football playgrounds, sports areas, and avenue for celebrating special occasions.

Al Montazah Adventures: Thrilling, challenging, action-packed courses to awaken the young at heart. It’s a rip-roaringrange of fun and exciting adventures, which should delightlocal adventurers, thrill seekers, and daredevils to no end.Al Montazah Adventures is a new series of games divided intodifferent difficulty levels for fun-loving folk of all ages. Thewhole course is to last a maximum of two hours, all underprofessional supervision.

Every exciting moment spent on Al Montazah AdventureCourse will be rich with discoveries, whether a person isclimbing, supporting “on belay”, or finding an effective way toencourage a team-mate or companion. Al Montazah AdventureCourses are made up of several trees connected by differentacrobatic elements. The park incorporates a sophisticated safetysystem using ropes; belay devices, and harnesses with trainedpersonnel supervising each individual participant.

lAdies dAYAl Montazah has reserved its water park every Tuesdayexclusively for ladies and their children. Women are able toprivately enjoy the water park’s various facilities with theirchildren in a safe, comfortable and men-free environment.Men are still able to enjoy the facilities and amenities at AlMontazah Amusement Park.

Every Tuesday from 10am to 10pm, Al Montazah Water Parkreserves all of its facilities for the exclusive use of women andtheir children (boys under 120 centimetres), making it the UAE’sfirst ever water park to provide women with the opportunity toenjoy its facilities over the course of nine hours. All members ofstaff at Al Montazah’s Water Park on Tuesday, including thoseat the restaurants and retail outlets, are women.

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Have some family friendly funat the first and only water andamusement park in Sharjah

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Be excitedAl Montazah


Al MontAzAh has recently unveiled a rip-roaring range ofexciting activities to delight local adventurers, thrill seekers,and daredevils. The brand new series of games, aptly named“Al Montazah Adventures”, consists of a number of gladiator-inspired obstacle courses divided into different levels ofdifficulty. Ropes are climbed, walls are mounted, heights arebraved, and fears vanquished as contenders take part in the AlMontazah Adventure Courses.

“Virtual reality and video games can be great fun, butnothing beats teamwork, fresh air, and a unique action-packedchallenge,” says Khalid Ibrahim Al Qaseer, General Manager,Al Montazah. “With Al Montazah Adventures, participants canphysically experience the adrenaline rush Indiana Jones or LaraCroft would encounter. I invite all who are young at heart tocome discover and embrace their spirit of life and adventure!”

The courses are separated — according to their degrees ofdifficulty — into three easily identifiable colour groups: Greenfor very easy, Blue for easy, and Red for difficult. The threelevels enable participants to grow at an individual or teamlevel; explore risk, self-discovery and communication as well asproblem solving and coaching.

Children can traverse the accessible Green trails, whileathletes, cross fitters, and gym fanatics have the opportunity

Extreme adventure to challenge themselves on the much harder Red routes,with anyone and everyone in search of a bit of excitementbeing able to enjoy themselves in between. Participants aregrouped together in teams or batches of no more than 15 each.Activities kick off with 15-minute briefing and training sessionsin which qualified Al Montazah Adventure staff memberseducate newcomers and participants about the various courses.

The instructors take great care to test and demonstratesafety measures, including correct harness fittings, and providethe necessary guidance so participants can achieve maximumfulfilment while having fun. After the briefing and trainingsessions, the actual Adventure Activities commence. As soonas one team or batch is launched, a timer ensures that thenext group doesn’t start too soon and causes an overflow oradventure traffic jam. Intervals between teams are between 30minutes up to an hour.

Full duration for all courses is two hours, all underprofessional supervision. The Low Ropes Course (Green andBlue) presents unending opportunities for self-discovery andgrowth, while the High Ropes Course (Red) aims to challengeparticipants to expand their comfort zones, sometimes quitedramatically. A planned seven-batches-a-day programme isscheduled, starting with the first team at 10 am, and the lastteam kicking off at 4 pm.

Great for special occasions, promoting social cohesion,teamwork, leadership training, birthday parties, social/corporate events and family gatherings, the participation feesare Dh80 for children between the ages of 8 and 14 years (ortaller than 120 cm), and Dh150 for participants aged 15 andabove (or taller than 140 centimetres).

Challenging, action-packedcourses for the young at heart

The Pearl of Abu DhabiAl Raha Beach Hotel

SiTuATeD Along a pristine shoreline, Al Raha Beach Hotel isideally located to cater to both corporate and leisure travellersalike with its proximity to the international airport andeasy access to the city centre and Dubai. The five star hotel,operated by the acclaimed Danat Hotels & Resorts group,offers an unforgettable experience of Arabian hospitality.

Combining sleek modern lines with traditional Arabicinfluences, Al Raha Beach Hotel features 254 beautifullyappointed guest rooms and suites with uncompromisingindulgence as well as 24 luxurious villas located in a stunningseafront location with elegant furnishings, homely feel andunsurpassed personal service.

When it comes to dining, you will be spoilt for choice. Byday, dine al fresco at the La Piscine Poolbar & Restaurant orenjoy a traditional afternoon tea at the Café Mozart. As thesun sets, choose from the exquisite Mediterranean cuisineof the Azur and the intimate exclusivity of Al Manzil to thevibrancy of Sevilla. The night need not end when your meal isover, head for the Black Pearl Bar offering the happiest hour

in town. Perfect for pre-dinner drink and get together withfriends, enjoy a true Arabian ambience at Wanasah Shisha Bar& Lounge.

Surrounded by vibrant dining, nightlife and attractions,there is plenty to explore at the Al Raha Beach Hotel. Forthe thrill seeker there is the F1 racetrack, Ferrari theme parkand Yas Waterworld just ten minutes away. For a taste ofculture, head to the Abu Dhabi National Museum, or take thecomplimentary shuttle bus to the nearby shopping malls for anafternoon of retail therapy.

Al Raha Beach Hotel is one of Abu Dhabi’s most acclaimedconference destinations, effortlessly blending luxurious,seaview accommodation with cutting-edge technology anddiscreet, professional service. An experienced, dedicatedevent management team will be on hand to help you planand supervise your event to the very last detail. The stage isset for success.

A world of wellbeingAl Raha Beach Hotel’s Body & Soul Spa and Recreation Club isan oasis of peace and tranquility, where a team of experts willattend to your every need, rejuvenating and revitalising yourbody and spirit. The spa offers an unrivalled experience andan array of treatments created to pamper and indulge. TheHydro-massage pool is specially designed with massage jets tostimulate the body with different sensations for relaxation.

With a secluded, 900-metre stretch of private beach,temperature-controlled indoor and outdoor swimming poolsand unrivalled spa facilities, the Body & Soul at Al Raha BeachHotel is the ultimate getaway to unwind and escape from yourdaily routine.

For bookings and informationcall +971 2 508 0555 or toll free 800 AL RAHA.

www.danathotels.com

destination

An unforgettable experienceof Arabian hospitality

The Pearl of Abu DhabiAl Raha Beach Hotel

16 Spring 2015

Gourmet dininG and impeccable personal serviceare hallmarks of Danat Hotels & Resorts. Al Raha inparticular stands out with a culinary team consisting of20 nationalities in the hotel’s six kitchens, ensuring anexciting dining experience no matter which restaurantyou may choose to dine in. Offering a variety of excitingand diverse venues, the restaurants here can please eventhe most discerning of palates.

Sevilla: This all-day dining restaurant offers creativelyprepared dishes with European, Italian and Asianflavours. The ultra stylish 160-seat restaurant is an openkitchen concept that is dominated by the magnificentviews of the Arabian Gulf coupled with ambient liveentertainment.

Café mozart: A stylish all-day-dining café perfect for aquick and tasty snack at any time of the day. It maintainsAl Raha Beach Hotel’s tradition of elegance with dailytraditional English Afternoon Tea, accompanied by liveharp music.

La Piscine: This poolside restaurant and bar offers ablend of Continental, Arabic and Far Eastern flavoursusing only the finest and freshest ingredients. Set amidstlush tropical greenery, the restaurant is complementedby sandstone floors creating an intimate ambienceperfect for a day of relaxation.

Azur: A beautiful destination offset by terracottafloors, Azur serves delicious and classic Mediterraneanfavourites. Its signature concept, Hot Stones is the newtrend of healthy grilling at your table and will be bothentertaining and interactive.

Black Pearl: An exclusive bar featuring 20-classicand contemporary beverage selections. An amazingtranslucent under-lit-optic glass bar forms itscentrepiece. Ideal for pre or post dinner relaxation,the intimate bar boasts an indoor club atmosphereoverlooking the sea.

Al manzil: The clubhouse lounge has 30-person seatingin-door and 60-person seating on the outdoor terracewith a breathtaking view of the Arabian Gulf. A perfectplace for a romantic dinner for two. Let the Al Manzilteam help you to select an exotic menu for your specialoccasion.

Wanasah: An elegant yet cosy lounge-bar featuringtraditional Arabian ambience. Relax in a private tent,choose from hot or chilled beverages as well as excitingshisha flavours, or feast on authentic Arabian dishesamongst other regional specialties.

A feast for the senses


18 Spring 2015

Other initiatives plannedas part of the 2015 DiscoverThainess campaign includethe Grand Wai Kru ceremonytaking place at the AyutthayaHistorical Park. The Wai Kruceremony is a once-in-a-lifetime sacred ritual in whichthe Muay Thai fighters fromall over the world are invitedto join in to commemoratethe art and the grandmasterof Muay Thai.

“In 2015 Hua Hin willtake its turn to host theThailand Music Festival whereheadliners as well as upcomingartists will come together tothrow extravagant showswith the iconic beaches of

the coastal resort as the backdrop. Shopaholics will be able toenjoy a different side of Thailand in June with the Thailand GrandSale tempting visitors with amazing promotions and discounts.And in September, foodies are in for a treat as we celebrate theThailand International Food Festival where a number of Thai andinternational chefs will come together in one spectacular culinaryjourney,” he notes.

Due to proximity to the region (average of six hours fromany city in the Middle East), Thailand is a popular destinationamong the UAE travellers especially in the ‘Greener Months’from June to August. Some of the most popular destinationsare Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya and Hua Hin, while ChiangMai, Krabi and Koh Samui are gaining popularity due to theirabundant natural beauty and wide selection of luxury resorts.

“I would recommend anyone visiting Thailand to justrelax and let the magic of our country dazzle you. Thailand,famously dubbed as the Land of Smiles, will surely charmevery visitor with its rich cultural diversity and amazing naturalwonders. From long stretches of white beaches to inspiringviews of the mountain, Thailand has something for everyone,”Suranant concludes.

Chalermsak Suranant,TAT Director, Dubai andMiddle East

“Thailand is known for its many charms but it is the‘Thainess’ that truly attracts tourists to visit the country,” saysChalermsak Suranant, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)Director, Dubai and Middle East. Described as the sanook (fun)and mai pen rai (don’t worry, be happy) way of life that ispractised by Thais, the concept of Thainess lies behind TAT’slatest campaign that showcases the unique culture of Thailandand the distinct character of its people.

“The 2015 Discover Thainess campaign is a blend of traditionand lifestyle where everything ‘Thai’ is interconnected. Allaspects of Thai culture such as cuisine, arts, wellness andfestivals are interloped in such a way that people visitingthe country for the first time will be enthralled, while Thaienthusiasts coming often will also have something unique toexperience in each visit,” he says.

Thailand is home to a spectrum of festivals that apart frombeing colourful celebrations have a deep rooted significance inThai culture which makes them all the more interesting. “Thisyear, we have scheduled a calendar of events that will providevisitors a glimpse into different festivals. In April, Thailandwill welcome the Thai New Year or Songkran by getting wet.The Songkran Festival is all about harmony, bringing peopletogether and having fun. The act of throwing water symboliseswashing away the old and starting afresh.”

Another much anticipated festival is Loy Krathong or theFestival of Lights. You can’t say you have truly experiencedThailand until you have celebrated the Loy Krathong Festival,which is held every year in November. For centuries, the fullmoon night of November is when the Loy Krathong Festivalgets underway with symbolic candles and flowers floated onrivers and streams across the country. The festival celebratesthe bond between the traditional Thai way of life and the riveraround which it is centred.

“Before the end of the year (December), we celebrateour National Day as well as the King's Birthday which putseverybody in the country in a festive mood. With the sound ofHis Majesty’s blues playing in the background, it’s the perfectway to reflect and be ready for another year ahead,” headds. Apart from the major festivals, there will be numerousactivities all over Thailand every month. For more informationvisit discoverthainess.tourismthailand.org

discover ThainessThailand’s unique culture and the distinct characterof its peopleis a major draw for touristsThailand’s unique culture and the distinct characterof its people are a major draw for tourists

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Travel Plus I Spring 2015

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Transcript of Travel Plus I Spring 2015