wanderer-eng-sep2011

wandererMAY 2011

An

Presentation

THE AL MAR’ATRAVEL & FOOD GUIDE

wanderer editorial

Travel gives you wings… It broadens your horizons. It makes you realise the different worlds beyond your realm… And it gives you much pleasure and joy.

Travel can mean anything… a short weekend getaway to rejuvenate your sagging spirits, a backpacking trip across cities with friends, an adventure holiday to unleash that adrenaline or a family vacation to spend some quality time with your loved ones. But whatever kind of holiday you are looking for, one thing is certain! It is as Miriam Beard says, ‘more than a seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living. It’s not therefore about being a tourist but more of a seeker’… For travel helps you in soak in as much as possible; the delights of the place just the beginning… There’s the culture, heritage, traditions, customs, people… and of course the food.

Which brings us to another part of life which we cannot do without. What’s life without indulging in gastronomic pleasures? Food and everything that revolves around it is a common ground, and a universal experience, just like travel.

And that’s why we have the Wanderer, the Al Mar’a Travel & Food Guide for you. The first section covers the entire travel circuit from popular cruise destinations, spa breaks to the world of shopping. The Food Section has important information like the must-have herbs in your kitchen and a roundup of some of the most popular cuisines in the world.

The Wanderer takes you on two delightful hops – Travel and Food. It’s what we call an epicurean journey. Join in… and indulge!

A JOURNEY OF TWO WORLDS

wandererMAY 2011

An

Presentation

THE AL MAR’ATRAVEL & FOOD GUIDE

Published byUnited Press & Publishing LLC

A Renaissance Services Company

P.O. Box 3305, Ruwi,Postal Code 112, Muscat, Sultanate of

Oman.Tel: 00 968 24700896 Fax: 00 968 24707939

e-mail: [email protected]: www.umsoman.com

All rights reserved.No part of this publication may be

reproduced without the express permission of the publishers.

Copyright © 2011United Press & Publishing LLC

Printed in the Sultanate of Oman atOman Printers & Stationers

EDITORIAL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFSalman Ibrahim Al Balushi

GROUP EDITORMayank Singh

DEPUTY EDITORSRekha BaalaRana Alawneh

ASSISTANT EDITORDeepa Rajan

CORRESPONDENTSSushmita SarkhelMyssaa Said Al Hinai

CONTRIBUTORSuzy Fontes

DESIGN

SENIOR ART DIRECTORSandesh S. Rangnekar

ART DIRECTORMinaal G. Pednekar

SENIOR DESIGNERS Aliya Al WaheibiRashida

SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERRajesh Burman

PHOTOGRAPHERSSathyadas C. NarayananMotasim Abdulla Al Balushi

PRODUCTION MANAGERGovindraj Ramesh

ADVERTISING & MARKETING

ADVERTISING MANAGERPooja Verma

ASSISTANT ADVERTISING MANAGERFareeda Sulaiman Al Balushi

SENIOR MEDIA EXECUTIVEBenaifer

MEDIA EXECUTIVERuwayda Al Barwani

CORPORATE

CHIEF EXECUTIVESandeep Sehgal

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENTAlpana Roy

VICE PRESIDENTRavi Raman

SENIOR BUSINESS SUPPORT EXECUTIVERadha Kumar

BUSINESS SUPPORT EXECUTIVEZuwaina Al Rashdi

DISTRIBUTIONUnited Media Services LLC

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AL MAR’A TRAVEL & FOOD GUIDEWANDERER

TRAVELCONTENTS

6CRUISE CONTROLTHE BEST CRUISE DESTINATIONS OF THE WORLD

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R & RPOPULAR SPAS IN THE REGION

GETAWAYSIFAWY BOUTIQUE

HOTEL AT JEBEL SIFAH

FOODSHOPPERS’ PARADISE

PLACES WHERE YOU CAN SHOP TILL YOU DROP

14 AROUND THE WORLDDELECTABLE INTERNATIONAL CUISINES

GO GREENTHE MUST-HAVE HERBS IN YOUR KITCHEN

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CRUISE AHOY!SAVOUR THE BOUNTIES OF A LANGUOROUS HOLIDAY ON A CRUISE TO ONE OF THE TOP DESTINATIONS IN THE WORLD.

R omance, intrigue, adventure, entertainment,

luxury, relaxation…

For vacationers around the world, a cruise trip is a complete package; one that indulges the senses in an ambience that has undertones of allure laced around it. Add to that the never ending panorama of the sea and the blue of the sky, the stopovers in destinations that have charmed travellers over the years and the epicurean delights. A perfect blend for a complete holiday!

However, reports suggest that less than 25 per cent of the population has never

set foot on a cruise ship. And plugged to that are stereotypes that cruise trips are for the inactive retirees as well as the general feeling that cruise holidays demand dollops of money. But these have been dismissed by cruise line operators as misconceptions, pointing out that many people who go on cruises are young and also that cruises are marketed to suit different pockets.

Frequent vacationers have their preferences with cruising marked as an annual event. But for majority of others, cruising may be once in a lifetime experience; one that needs to be planned in detail.

Where to go, more importantly when to go, is probably the first question, followed by budgeting, which cruise line to take, etc. Most decisions are made on the basis of the expectations from the cruise and the budget that can be saved for it.

The following top ten cruise destinations (listed alphabetically), culled from various sources, could be a first step in that direction.

ALASKAAlaska, which has been ranked as the number one cruise destination by UK cruise writers, has been defined as 500,000 square miles of adventure

that energises, refreshes and renews one with its fresh air, clear waters and breathtaking views.

Alaska is also known as the ‘Last Frontier’ considering that man is yet to explore all of its vast land. Inuits or Eskimos live in the remote villages and are known to use their traditional dog sleds for hunting (The famous international dog sled race takes place at Iditarod Trail in Alaska). Cruise vacationers can take a helicopter ride to the remote glaciers for dog sledding.

Alaska has more active volcanoes than any other state. The Valley of Ten

CRUISE CONTROL

Thousand Smokes has smoke and gas rising from the volcanic vents and it is said that one can easily get lost in the Arctic regions of the state when blowing snow makes it impossible to see through.

A cruise trip to this destination presents an opportunity to sail by glaciers, fjords and snow-capped peaks. June, July and August are the warmest months here and ideal for visitors. Besides, June offers longer daylight for sightseeing.

ANTARCTICAIt may seem the least attractive of destinations, considering its harsh climate

and lack of touristic facilities. And yet, it has won the votes of several cruise enthusiasts to be listed among the top ten destinations, thanks to the penguin colonies, soaring glacier cliffs and calving icebergs.

To its credit it has an immense landscape of ice – 95 per cent of it is covered in ice. One of its interesting features is the ocean that surrounds it, which, owing to the conflicting currents of warm, salty waters from the south, and cold, dense waters from the north, results in a rich environ, marked by an abundance of sea plankton. These, in turn, attract birds

and sea mammals in large numbers and tourists have a picture perfect scene of rough seas of Drake Passage and Tierra del Fuego and the creatures that are attracted to it.

Tourism season here is restricted to the four months from November to February: early summer in November with birds calling out to mate, hatching of penguins in December and January with 20 hours of daylight, late summer in February with whale sightings and growing chicks.

Some cruise ships offer the Antarctic Experience, which

is a sail-by type of cruise that does not allow passengers to disembark; instead they capture the scenic bounty from the ship deck. Members of the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators are required to pledge that they will send no more than 100 people ashore at a time and could get their permit to sail Antarctica revoked if they fail to follow.

BALTIC SEAThe Baltic Sea is a brackish inland sea, occupying a basin formed by glacial erosion. It unites European cultural history of the Hanseatic League on its coasts. Cruises to this

region have been defined as a journey to a corner of the world for its unique legends and fairy tales. It is a fascinating mix of prehistoric cultures and modern cities with a distinct

medieval ambience. Visitors are promised interesting sights and adventures with treats of visual delights

in Scandinavian cities of Copenhagen, Helsinki, Stockholm and Tallinn, not forgetting St. Petersburg in Russia.

Over the years, it has become a popular tourist region of Europe, offering a complete holiday package for families seeking sun and sand. Its beautiful coastline and mild temperature have made it a winner, especially in the health and fitness segment which has pushed up its demand. June, July and August (some opine that it is ideal from late May through September) are the best

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CRUISE CONTROL

times to cruise to this region as the rest of the months tend to be cold.

CARIBBEANSun, sand and loads of fun… The Caribbean, which is preferred by nearly two million travellers every year, is all about beautiful beaches and pleasant weather. This region consists of the Caribbean Sea and its islands and the surrounding coasts. The islands are called the West Indies after explorer Christopher Columbus landed here in 1942 and believed it was Indies. There are more than 7,000 islands, islets, reefs and cays and visitors have the option of experiencing more than one island each time the ship calls on the port. Some of the islands, like the Bahamas, Anguilla, Curacao or the British Virgin Islands are popular. The Bahamas has a shimmery spread of beaches and pine forests; Anguilla offers a chance to see dolphins, with its biggest attraction being the Dolphin Fantaseas; Curacao’s Hato Caves present enchanting dry land sea caves that have treasures of fossils and cave drawings of over millions of years; British Virgin Islands is said to be the best place for diving and snorkelling.

Major destinations in the Caribbean have high temperatures averaging in the

80s Fahrenheit and lows in the 70s. However, Bahamas are cooler during winter.

FJORDS OF NORWAYIt is said to be the world’s most beautiful destination with National Geographic Society’s Centre for Sustainable Destinations putting it on top of the list of iconic destinations in the world. The natural wonders of its steep-cliffed fjords add to its splendor, making it a very memorable holiday.

Norway has earned distinction as the land of the midnight sun – during summer the sun never sets. This phenomenon of midnight sun is visible at North Cape in Finnmark from May 14 to July 29 and in the country of Nordland from June 12 to July 1. At the North Pole the sun never sets for six months. The availability of natural light, even through the night, adds to its popularity.

Tourists can look forward to bird watching at the North Cape, golfing, hiking and fishing in the Arctic Circle. Cruises around the natural wonders are breathtaking, especially as one sails inside the fjords surrounded by high cliffs.

GALAPAGOSThe Galapagos Islands were the result of volcanoes erupting violently out of the sea, causing plant and animal

species to cross the ocean and colonise the islands. This archipelago consists of 13 major islands, five of which are inhabited. The islands and surrounding waters form an Ecuadorian province, a national park and a biological marine reserve.

This is a must visit destination for all those seeking to get close to nature. Its interesting flora and fauna make it an amazing cruise, with people describing it as a journey of their lifetime. The diversity of the species and the multitude of animals are the biggest draws for tourists and nature lovers. It is home to giant tortoises, sea lions, penguins, fur seals, marine iguanas, etc. The weather is pleasant throughout the year, however, the peak tourist period is mainly from June to August. Easter season and the months of December and January also attract tourists.

Charles Darwin was one of the first persons to visit, following which he put together his Theory of Evolution.

HAWAIIAN ISLANDS‘…the loveliest fleet of islands that lies anchored in any ocean,’ is how Mark Twain

described the Hawaiian Islands. This archipelago of over 19 volcanic islands, located on the geological hot spot in Central Pacific, is indeed a paradise. It consists of eight major and 124 minor islands, plus reefs and shoals that appear to have been strung together like a necklace. Six of the eight major islands are open to tourism and cruising offers dramatic vistas of cleaved volcanic cliffs that drop down to the sea in a green curtain. Nature is at its resplendent best here, attracting annually about seven million visitors.

Hawaii features Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the green sandy beaches and its plantations and ranches. The Mauna Loa is the largest and one of the most active volcanoes on earth. The ‘Big Island’ or Hawaii Island is a volcanic island, larger than all the other Hawaiian Islands combined.

The Hawaiian Islands have a subtropical climate with normal annual temperature of 77 degrees Fahrenheit with only two seasons - summer (between May and October) and winter

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(between October and April).

MEDITERRANEANA unique combination of picturesque coastline and pleasant weather, along with rich and diverse cultures, makes the Mediterranean region a very popular destination. It stretches across many regions like the French Riviera, Greek Islands, Italian Ligurian coast and Spanish Costa del Sol. Island nation of Cyrus and Malta are entirely surrounded by the Mediterranean and are popular tourist destinations.

What adds to the uniqueness of this region is the complex patterns of islands, inlets and the gulfs and bays that are formed where the land meets the sea. This creates a magical contrast between the deep blue sea and the sky and other landmarks. The constancy in

the climate and terrain add to its splendor as well as the admix of history, architecture, food art and the beaches.Summer is the most preferred season for those seeking to soak up the sun, however, the best cruise times are in May and June and September and October.

MEXICOThe popularity of this destination can be gauged from the fact that it has been ranked 7th major destination by the World Trade Organisation. It attracted over 20 million foreign visitors in 2009, which is thanks, mainly, to its alluring beach resorts. Its extensive coastlines include the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Some of its popular destinations are Acapulco, Cancun, Cozumel, Los Cabos and Patzcuaro.

Mexico has been defined as a heady concoction of beautiful beaches, coral reefs, murals, museums, epicurean delights, shopping sprees and weather ranging from snow mountains in the Sierras to rainy jungles in the Southeast and deserts in the Northwest. However, the destination may not be suited if relaxation is sought as some of the ports of call on the Mexican Riviera are highly energized.

Best time to visit are months from November to April when it is drier, less humid and let hotter than the summer months.

SOUTH PACIFICThe element of privacy, presented by its secluded islets, lonely beaches and the romantic cruises, has made this an ideal destination for honeymooning couples. The exotic underwater life

and rich coral reefs have also added an element of adventure, with opportunities for sailing, parasailing and deep-sea fishing. It has an interesting night life to complete the package.

Most cruises to South Pacific call in at the islands of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Raiatea and Huahine. Tropical paradises like Polynesian and Fiji Islands are very popular. As also are destinations like Marquesas (famed for the TV show Survivor), Western Samoa, Fiji, Cook Islands, Apia and Rarotonga.

There is a feeling of dreaminess about its islands and one could easily get lost in the thousands of quaint islands in this largest ocean. The right time to visit the place varies upon the location chosen.

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The growing spa culture in this part of the world has produced

several followers. They are the new tribe of spa addicts who religiously make time for an indulgent spree in one of the exotic spa resorts - for beauty treatments as well as mind and body rejuvenation that the ambience within is said to promote. They claim that the spa experience, with extended stays in the resort, is a rung higher in the evolution of vacations and holidays, presenting options to reconnect to one’s life purpose and also improve health and attain a mental balance in life.And those sentiments

may not be far from the truth, whether one is a casual visitor or a devotee, considering the facilities most spa resorts in the region pack in. They strive to overdo the pamper angle, indulging their patrons with treatments ranging from the traditional to the exotic, blending it all in an environment that suggests peaceful relaxation.

Generally speaking, spas evoke images of long, leisurely beauty treatments in candle-lit rooms with the faint aroma of sensational scents in the air. They smack of wealth, especially the new range of spa resorts that pander to every

whim of their clients. But for those seeking the ultimate pleasures of relaxation with the objective of realising the essence of look-good-feel-good mantra, time and money is rarely a hindrance.

Interestingly, money need not be a hindrance, say loyal spa-goers who keep tabs on all the resorts to make the most of their money. For spa resorts could vary from the basic inexpensive ones to luxurious, over-the-top resorts. And both these types as well as all the ones in the middle have market, considering how important vacations with specific themes have become over the years. They all pack in

certain forms of exercise, yoga and meditation, healthy cuisine, etc.

So, if you have money to burn and time to spare, come along on a spa tour of the region.

OMANAl Nahda Resort and Spa: Nestled in a thirty-acre garden in Barka, this resort is a picture of tranquility and stress-free relaxation. It is a deluxe health resort and spa that takes guests on a wellness programme designed to improve the balance of their life. The Spa Villas offer a blend of traditional and new therapies which are designed to promote better

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WHEN HOLIDAYS ARE

MORE THAN SIGHT-SEEING

EXERCISES…CHI, The Spa,

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balance between mind, body and spirit.

This resort and spa can help one get fitter; manage weight; check Aura and Charka balance; and learn yoga, meditation or a new sport. Guests, on arrival, are scheduled to see one of their lifestyle consultants who will plan the stay and be on hand to guide and make adjustments to the programme when needed. Holistic Health is the foundation of its health and wellness philosophy. Facilities on offer include a varied fitness program, fitness classes, physiotherapy and executive health.

The 79 pool villas, plus The Private Reserve and two Retreats are a blend of the surrounding traditional Omani, indigenous village styles with modern amenities which provide luxury amidst local cultural themes. The villas offer a spacious, personal environment with rustic chic décor to reflect the brand’s positioning of Redefining Experiences.

It was named the ‘Country Winner’ in the ‘Best Luxury Resort Spa’ category of the 2011 annual ‘World Luxury Spa Awards.’ It has been nominated in six categories for ‘The Middle East Spa Awards 2011’ that will take place in Dubai on May 19.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATESAl Maha Desert Resort and Spa: This award-winning resort, located 45 minutes southeast of Dubai in the desert, is the first eco-tourism project to be established in the UAE.

Its Bedouin styled tented accommodation creates a feeling of sanctuary amidst the golden sand dunes. Its ‘Timeless Spa’ focuses on the whole body, combining some of the proven methods of relaxation, along with Arabian traditions and culture. The ‘Timeless’ range of signature products make use of the relaxation properties of traditional products like frankincense and dates. The Spa has massage rooms with ‘Rasool’ therapy rooms and other facilities.

Bab Al Shams Resort & Spa: Surrounded by rolling dunes and the natural landscape of the desert, it offers a unique retreat in the desert. Literally meaning ‘Gateway to the sun’, this resort has been designed to resemble a rural Arab village, built around an oasis featuring shaded courtyards, walkways and water elements…

Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa: Sitting snugly against the imposing mountains on one side and the shimmery waters of the Gulf of Oman on the other, it has created a niche for itself among both the leisure and business travellers as a fully integrated destination resort – a perfect gateway to Oman. This 124-acre property houses three hotels with 630 luxurious rooms, including suites, plus food and beverage outlets, etc.

Its popular CHI, The Spa, features the largest and luxurious spa facilities in the country, where guests can look forward to a wide range of treatments and therapies in one of the 12 treatment villas. The spa menu has been inspired by the traditional Asian healing philosophies and the therapies are based on the Five Elements Theory – it is customised to the element sign of the individual. On offer are a Turkish bath, a Rasool for rejuvenating mud treatment, an ice fountain, steam rooms and Jacuzzi. Others like the revitalising heat and hydro experiences can be savored at CHI, The Spa’s Water Oasis.

Six Senses Spa Zighy Bay: This is a holistic oasis nestled into the Zighy mountainside. It is a part of the Six Senses Zighy Bay, which is the first luxury resort of its kind on Oman’s mountainous Musandam Peninsula. The Spa has nine treatment rooms, a juice bar and two Arabian Hammam rooms, which have been inspired by traditions of yore. It offers a sensory journey that encourages the mind to relieve itself from the stresses of life.

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Located adjacent to Dubai International Endurance City, a 40-minute drive from the city centre of Dubai and Dubai International Airport, it has 113 rooms designed in a rustic Arabic style that are housed in 16 double storey buildings.

Jal Resort Spa Hotel Fujairah: This is a contemporary resort hotel, set between 500 metres of Indian Ocean beachfront and the Hajjar Mountains in the Emirate of Fujairah. Located about 90 minutes from the Dubai International Airport, the resort offers a gym, an outdoor pool and a full service health spa complete with sauna, hot tub and steam room. The Hotel’s well known spa – Zen – offers a perfect choice for relaxation with its focus on moment-by-moment awareness and ‘seeing deeply into the nature of things’ by direct experience.

Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa: Overlooking the Arabian Gulf, this is a perfect spot for business as well as pleasure with 500 rooms and suites, plus 14 international food and beverage outlets. It is within easy reach of the

Emirates Golf Club and the Montgomerie Golf Club and a 20 minute drive from the Dubai International Financial Centre. Its Roman-themed spa – Caraculla - is ideal for patrons looking for a high degree of personalised service. It has five Hammam pools, saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, gym and aerobic centre.

The Residence and Spa of The One And Only Royal Mirage: Considered the most stylish resort on Jumeira Beach, it comprises three equally distinctive properties - The Palace, Arabian Court and Residence & Spa. The Palace rekindles the grandeur and dignity of Old Arabia in mesmerising splendour; The Arabian Court gives new eloquence to an old and enchanting civilization; The Residence & Spa has the indefinable and exclusive air of high esteem. It also features a ‘Health and Beauty Institute’ with an Oriental Hammam for traditional and oriental massages, steam baths and Jacuzzis.

BAHRAINBanyan Tree Desert Spa Resort Hotel Manama: This is the only all-villa

private pool resort in the Arabian Gulf. It personifies indulgent spa pampering at its best. It offers Jacuzzi bathtub meeting room, outdoor pool restaurant, spa squash courts and fitness centre among the host of facilities.Its desert pool villa is everything that an oasis hideaway should be – a haven for rejuvenation and pampering. Every villa here is a reflection of contemporary design and traditional Middle Eastern artistry. It is a sensual sanctuary for body and mind, promising privacy and comfort in every nook and corner.

LEBANONInterContinental Mountain Resort and Spa Mzaar: It has earned the distinction of being a family-friendly destination. It is the only 5-Stars ski choice in the region with a world class spa and breathtaking sights.

Treatment at the spa begins with complimentary medical and dietary consultation and light body peel. It offers sauna, Hammam and Jacuzzi and is known for its energising fitness and effective weight reduction programs. The signature

packs include popular treatments like the Silhouette Plus, Body Shape, Young Mothers, Relaxation, Men’s Tonic, Special Back and Dynamism. In addition, there are a variety of massage and fitness programmes.

QATAR Sharq Village and Spa: Situated in an area called Sharq, meaning orient, the spa has a spread of 14 individual courtyard houses that are placed along the private coastline around the ancient Arabic bazaar. The design perfectly blends the traditional architecture with modern amenities. It is reminiscent of a romantic village with outdoor majlis, village souq, etc.

The four villages that makes up the Six Senses Spa at Sharq Village features 23 treatment rooms, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, changing rooms, prayer rooms, relaxation rooms and an assortment of facilities including: heated marble wet beds with luxurious baths, two Hammam rooms, three Thai rooms, dry flotation beds, single and double dry spa treatment rooms, cellar treatment rooms and private steam rooms.

Six Senses Spa Zighy Bay Sharq Village and Spa

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SHOP TALKCALLING ALL SHOPAHOLICS… FIND SOME OF THE BEST DESTINATIONS AROUND THE WORLD TO INDULGE YOUR ADDICTION.

‘Oh that… I picked that up when we visited…’ A great conversation starter, we agree, but does that sound familiar?

It has to. For, in the travel itinerary of almost every tourist – even the business ones - shopping is marked as an important task; one that could be accomplished after, before or in-between all the sight-seeing and picture-taking.

No tour, say travel experts, can be complete without shopping. There is a feeling of unfinished business when one has not made time, even half a day, for shopping.

But what if shopping becomes the trip by itself? Does that qualify one for the tag of a shopaholic…? In the concrete jungles of shopping malls around the world, there are thousands of shopaholics, conspicuously indulging their unbridled shopping streak. The piles of shopping bags giving away their ‘compulsive shopping disorder’ - that is how the urban dictionary defines the slang word shopaholic!

But well, that tag may be a tad too loud to define the millions of men and women, of all ages, who save a whopping portion of their incomes for shopping; to look and feel trendy and possess items that narrate tales of their trips.

Shopping is a pursuit that cuts across every segment of the society. And with global industries catering to the needs of this ever-growing tribe, it is no wonder that shopping is an open-ended answer for the moneyed as well as middle-class tourists. Here’s a

SHOPPERS’ PARADISE

little guide for serious shoppers; the ones who believe in the trite ‘shop till you drop’ adage.

DUBAIWe begin with the region’s prime shopping destination, Dubai, whose reputation as a shopper’s paradise has kept it well polished for every kind of shopper. With an annual shopping festival to boot, it remains the ideal stop for shoppers in the region and outside. From traditional souks that encourage bargaining, to multi-storied shopping malls, Dubai has it all. Its massive malls market some of the top brands, comprising products ranging from haute couture to electronic gadgets and the souks are packed with a staggering array of goods. And in between all this are small little booth shops that deal in traditional goods of the east - spices, perfumed oils, carpets…

The best part of shopping in Dubai is the possibility of buying products from different countries at some of the most affordable prices. Electronic goods are competitively priced and are very popular with people looking out for good bargains. Gold shopping is also a major attraction.

Your shopping guide:• The Bur Juman Centre in Bur Dubai: a whopping mall

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spread over nearly 75,000 square metres, housing 190 retailers of renowned brands from around the world.

• The Century Mall in the Mamzar area: with an area of 13,935 square metres it is the ideal stop for buyers of electronic devices and telecommunications accessories as well as other fashion and beauty products.

• The Emirate Towers Boulevard: 45 retail items with designer brands like Giorgio Armani, Veneta and Gucci, etc.

• Karama: a den for bargain-hunters with economically priced products from different parts of the world.

Also visit: Dubai Spice Souk, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Twin Towers, Deira City Centre, Jumeirah Town Centre, Bani Yas Square and Deira Tower, Deira Gold Souk and Lamcy Plaza Dubai.

TURKEYFrom hand-woven Turkish carpets and kilims (hand-woven reversible rugs) to jewelry and Iznik ceramics… welcome to Istanbul in Turkey, a fascinating shopping destination for those who have the time and inclination. According to historians, it has been a shopper’s paradise for more than 1,500 years for its handmade rugs and carpets, antique silver and jewelry, semi-precious stones, spices, sweets and fashion accessories, including clothing and footwear.Your shopping guide:• Grand Bazaar (Kapali Carsi): over 60

streets holding 4,400 shops dealing in items ranging from jewellery and carpets to leather and antiques with cafes and restaurants adding to the ambience. (Note: you need to sharpen your bargaining skills.)

• Sandal Bedestan: for kilim auction on Wednesdays.

• Egyptian Spice Bazaar: for exotic spices, dried fruits, nuts, teas, coffees, lokum (Turkish Delights)…

• Istiklala Caddesi and Galata near Taksim: bustling promenade of boutiques, clothes, record and bookshops as well as cafes and restaurants.

• Nisantasi: for boutiques and upmarket cafes.

• Istanbul Handicrafts Centre: for handicrafts, ceramics, calligraphy and miniatures.

• Other outdoor markets for fresh produce, antiques and clothes.

• Flea markets: near Grand Bazaar on Sundays, Horhor Market in Aksaray on weekends, and Cihangir - daily.

• Ortakoy: for arts, crafts and jewelry fair on Sundays.

Upmarket malls: Istinye Park, City’s Mall in Nisantasi, Kanyon in Levent district and Cevahir which is Europe’s second biggest mall after London’s Westfield.

THAILANDThailand is probably one of the most popular shopping destinations for a little retail therapy, thanks to the seemingly unending shopping outlets and bargain options it offers. It has some of the top notch shopping malls like Siam Paragon and Panthip Plaza, huge local markets like the JJ Market and others that stretch from Chiang Mai to Udon Thani.Your shopping guide:• Chiang Mai: weekend and night

markets feature modern and traditional handicrafts, puppets and jewellery crafted by hill tribes and dresses/tees designed by young artists.

• Egyptian Spice Bazaar:

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• Bangkok’s night markets: Patpong and Sukhumvit Roads are ideal for souvenirs and gifts. (Note: be cautious of scamsters pawing off fake gems and antiques.)

• Chatuchak Weekend Market: spread over more than 35 acres, it has 15,000 vendor stalls, attracting more than 200,000 visitors every weekend. Shoppers can find everything from Levis hipsters to vinyl records. Those who have honed their bargaining skills can unleash it here.

• Siam Square: for ready-to-wear clothes from local designers.

• Chinatown: for knick-knacks and trinkets

• Yaowarat Road: for gold shopping.

PARISThis is the quintessential shopping capital of the world; home to some of the largest and most popular fashion houses of the world. It has very stylish boutiques and aesthetically designed shopping areas.Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel and Louis Vitton… Can it get any better?

Your shopping guide:• Louvre-Tuileries and Faubourg• Saint-Honore: famous for elite

designer fashion and cosmetics and elegant home furnishings.

• Paris Department Stores District – Boulevard Haussmann: for some of the best department stores.

• The Marais: a wide ranging collection of fashion wear, jewellery, antiques as well as fine art.

• Avenue Montaigne and Avenue des Champs-Elysees: for designer wear in some of the trendy chain stores.

• Saint-Ouen Flea Market: for antiques and vintage clothes and footwear.

• Saint-Germain-des-Pres: for classic designs and home furnishings and books.

• Les Halles and Rue de Rivoli: for some of the trendiest boutiques as well as major chains.

LONDONJimmy Choo, Gucci, Hermes, Chanel… For brand conscious folks

SHOPPERS’ PARADISE

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