Dubai International Airport exceeds 4.5 million passenger target for third month in a row

Dubai International Airport exceeds 4.5 million passenger target for third month in a row

Dubai Airports' monthly traffic report has revealed that over 4.5 million passengers travelled through Dubai International Airport in March, 2012; a 15.4 per cent increase on the same month in 2011. Last month, 4,848, 320 travellers arrived to dubai holidays and business trips via the emirate's international airport and passenger traffic exceeded the city's 4.5 million target.

The emirate has recorded double-digit growth throughout the first three months of 2012 and the total number of travellers taking holidays in dubai has reached 14,261,606 already this year which is a 16.1 per cent increase on the figures during the first quarter of 2011.

Paul Griffiths, the Chief of Dubai Airports, explained: "New routes and additional frequencies are building on the magnetic attraction of Dubai's hub as a premier leisure and business destination and a convenient connecting point for global travellers. As growth continues to pick up in almost all markets, both traditional and new, the outlook for the second quarter is similarly positive."

Dubai International Airport also handled 186,417 tonnes of cargo during March, 2012, which was a 0.3 per cent increase on the 185,921 tonnes in March, 2011.

The rise in holidaymakers and business travellers has led to the development of several new dubai hotels over recent months and over 13,200 new rooms are under construction across the city.

Dubai is one of the seven United Arab Emirates and is a hub for leisure and business travellers. The city boasts unique architecture, enormous shopping malls, parks, luxurious hotels, and beautiful sandy beaches. Popular attractions include the Dubai Marina, Dubai, Jumeirah Mosque and the Wild Wadi Park.

Dubai was named as the Middle East's "World Festival and Event City" by the International Festivals and Events Association in 2011 and tourists can enjoy several exiting annual music festivals and shopping and sporting events during holidays to dubai

Every summer, families can enjoy a variety of fun activities, events, entertainment and discounts across the city during the Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) promotion.

The annual festival is organised by the Dubai Events and Promotions Establishment (DEPE) and is aimed at families taking luxury holidays across the GCC. The summer event also helps increase occupancy levels for hotels in Dubai during their "weaker" tourist season.

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Oasis Riviera Maya and Oasis Viva hotels open their doors once again for travellers to Cancun

Oasis Riviera Maya and Oasis Viva hotels open their doors once again for travellers to Cancun

Travellers planning their all-inclusive cancun holidays will be pleased to learn that Oasis Hotel and Resorts have announced that as of 1st May 2012 the hotel group will re-introduce the popular Oasis Riviera Maya and Oasis Viva hotels. The announcement was made by Oasis' vice president of sales and marketing Enrique Klein who also noted that although the Grand Oasis Viva and the Oasis Viva will maintain their names the Grand Oasis Riviera Maya has been rebranded as the Oasis Tulum.

The Oasis Tulum is a perfect match for those travellers hoping to book a family friendly Cancun holiday experience. Conveniently located within a stone's throw away from the Xcaret and Xel-Ha theme parks as well as being a mere 10 minute walk from the enchanting towns of Akumal and Tulum, the Oasis Tulum is one of the Cancun hotels that provides easy access to all the ingredients needed for a fun family day out.

The Oasis Tulum boasts of 312 rooms, seven restaurants and eight bars giving guests a wide range of dining options to choose from. Recreation facilities include swimming pools, tennis courts, a scuba diving centre, a state of the art gym as well as easy access to an 18-hole golf course. After working up a sweat guests can take the opportunity to unwind with a relaxing massage at the Kin Ha Spa or the Kin Ha Jungle Spa, alternatively holidaymakers can take advantage of the Oasis Tulum's native steam bath.

Between the periods of 1st May to 30th June and 16th of August to 20th December rates start from as low as $ 65 per person. During the peak season between 1st July and 15th August guests can enjoy a stay at the Oasis Tulum for $ 70 per person per night. Up to two children ages 12 and under can enjoy free accommodation and dining if sharing with two adults and utilizing existing bedding.

The Grand Oasis Viva and the Oasis Viva boasts of an impressive 441 rooms spread between these two properties in addition to six restaurants, five bars and two swimming pools. These hotels in the Rivera Maya are ideally situated within easy access of one the best Cancun beaches perfect for holidaymakers hoping to soak up some the sun sea and sand that Cancun is known for. Nightly rates at the Grand Oasis Viva and the Oasis Viva start from between $ 60 and $ 70 depending on the time of year.

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Maldives celebrate increase in tourist arrivals

Maldives celebrate increase in tourist arrivals

The Maldives received 931,000 visitors in 2011 which is a 17.6 per cent increase on the number of holidaymakers in 2010. Tourism officials are celebrating the increase and the Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation (MMPRC) is hoping to see one million tourists take maldives holidays this year.

So far, visitor arrivals have shown a 3.3 per cent increase during the first quarter of 2012 compared to the same period last year and officials are confident that the country will meet its tourism target.

Situated in the Indian Ocean the Maldives is an archipelago spanning nearly 1,200 beautiful coral islands, of which 200 are inhabited. The islands boast luxury Maldives hotels with upscale accommodation and facilities including spas, infinity pools and gourmet restaurants, plus a selection of activities for tourists taking holidays to the Maldives such as snorkelling, scuba diving, boat excursions, hiking through tropical forests and relaxing on unspoilt white sand palm-fringed beaches.

Last year the island nation launched a new tourism logo and slogan that reflects the country’s outstanding natural environment.
The “Maldives - Always Natural” slogan represents the country’s natural beautiful landscapes including the lush green rainforests, white sand beaches and turquoise ocean waters.

There are plenty of luxury hotels in the Maldives to choose from including over-water villas, beach villas, oceanfront bungalows and upscale spa resorts.

The stunning island nation offers the perfect getaway for romantic honeymoons or weddings, wellness spa breaks, scuba diving adventures, and relaxing family holidays.

During holidays in the Maldives tourists can dive beneath the surface of the crystal-clear turquoise ocean and explore the breathtaking underwater environment that is made up of colourful coral reefs and gardens. The waters are home to an abundance of stunning marine species including turtles, stingrays, whale sharks, zebra sharks, grey reef sharks, manta rays, eagle rays, angel fish, clown fish, butterfly fish, barracuda, parrot fish and trigger fish.

The Maldives was voted as the "World’s Most Romantic Destination" by the World Travel Awards and with stunning sunsets, deserted beaches and hundreds of virgin islands to explore, it’s no surprise that it is one of the most popular destinations in the world for weddings and honeymoons.

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Planning a budget Bahamas holiday getaway from Miami just got easier

Planning a budget Bahamas holiday getaway from Miami just got easier

Travellers planning to book 2012 Miami holidays in Fort Lauderdale now have the unique opportunity to enjoy a brief escape to the enchanting Caribbean island of Bahamas. Joint owners of the Balearia Bahamas Express-Spanish ferry operator Balearia and the Capo Group, have recently announced the launch of the first ever US-Bahamas ferry service.

The Balearia Bahamas Express will be whisking passengers away from Fort Lauderdale, Miami to their budget bahamas holidays experience in Grand Bahama. The newly launched ferry service means that travellers can enjoy town-centre holidays to the Bahamas and Miami at a bargain price making for a truly unforgettable holiday experience.

The exciting new offer is currently being marketed as "an appealing alternative to air travel" with significant savings to be made over opting for a direct flight to the Bahamas from Miami. Travellers can choose between economy class and VIP/first class travel. An economy day trip starts at $ 49.50 per person while the first class day rate will cost upwards of $ 65 per person.

Image by: IDEE_PER_VIAGGIARE, en Flickr

Holidaymakers hoping to see a little bit more of the Bahamas can opt for an overnight stay which will cost approximately $ 25.5 per person on top of the day rates. All passengers are permitted two pieces of hand luggage at no extra cost; however, the prices listed do not include the departure tax of $ 18 and operational charge of $ 12.5.

With the exception of Wednesdays the ferry, christened "Pinar del Rio", will be running a daily service taking holidaymakers to their short stay Bahamas holidays departing from Port Everglades Terminal One in Fort Lauderdale at 10 am. Return trips are scheduled to depart for Fort Lauderdale at 7:30 pm. Travelling at a remarkable 32 knots the Balearia Bahamas Express boasts of making the 76 mile journey in a mere two and a half hours.

Image by: IDEE_PER_VIAGGIARE, en Flickr

Holidaymakers will have the opportunity to relax, enjoy the magnificent scenery and take in the calming sea breeze on the spacious decks. On board services include a cafe- bar, movie viewing facilities, baby changing stations and duty free shopping. Passengers are reminded that a valid passport is need for check in.

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Starwood Hotels to open new Westin Resort for Punta Cana holidays in 2013

Starwood Hotels to open new Westin Resort for Punta Cana holidays in 2013

Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide is planning to build a new resort in the Dominican Republic after it signed an agreement with development partner Grupo Punta Cana. The Westin Puntacana Resort is expected to open to tourists taking dominican republic holidays in late 2013 in the Playa Blanca area of the Puntacana Resort and Club complex.

The new resort will have 204 luxurious rooms including 16 suites, and guests going on holidays to the Dominican Republic can enjoy facilities such as a large swimming pool, full service spa, fitness centre, 24-hour business centre, meeting and wedding rooms, children's club, walking trails, lobby bar and a poolside grill.

Brian Povinelli, the Global Brand Leader for Westin Hotels and Resorts, commented: "The Westin Puntacana Resort is a highly anticipated addition to our growing resorts portfolio, offering travellers a refreshing, island retreat on one of the most popular islands in the Caribbean.

"The new resort will offer all of the Westin brand's signature programs and amenities, designed to inspire wellbeing and send guests home feeling better than when they arrived."

Image by: worldtraveller5

During holidays in the Dominican Republic, travellers staying at the new resort will also have access to first-class amenities at the Puntacana Resort and Club, such as championship golf course, nine gourmet restaurants, a Six Senses Spa, a 1,500-acre ecological reserve and three miles of pristine white sand beaches.

The resort is the first of two Dominican Republic hotels that Starwood Hotels and Resorts is planning to open over the year or so. The first property, Four Points by Sheraton Punta Cana Village, is due to open in October, 2012 and is also being developed by Grupo Punta Cana.

Punta Cana is situated on the easternmost province of the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean and travellers from all over the world head to the region every year to experience tropical Punta Cana holidays amid stunning natural scenery that is made up of white sand beaches, turquoise ocean waters, lush green landscapes.

Image by: worldtraveller5

"We are delighted to expand our partnership with Starwood Hotels and Resorts to be able to share the Puntacana experience with even more travellers as they visit the Dominican Republic,"  stated Alberto Abreu, the Executive Director of Hospitality at Puntacana Resort and Club.

He added: "The Westin Puntacana Resort will allow even more visitors from around the globe to experience the one-of-a-kind beaches, weather, and activities available in our country, and at our resort. We look forward to welcoming more guests into the Puntacana family as we move forward with this project."

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Samana beaches named best in class for Dominican Republic holidays

Samana beaches named best in class for Dominican Republic holidays

Travellers who are planning their 2012 dominican republic holidays are likely to be day dreaming of spending their days under the warm Caribbean sun relaxing on a beautiful white sandy beach with crystal clear turquoise waters.

While the Dominican Republic is known best for all-inclusive package holidays in Punta Cana, according to the renowned Spanish online travel magazine ‘El Mundo', holidaymakers longing to experience a taste of paradise in the Dominican Republic should instead head straight to the breathtakingly beautiful but lesser known Samana Peninsula.

In a recent feature entitled "Samana, Dominican Essence", the magazine gave a glowing endorsement of the north eastern district of the Dominican Republic aptly describing it as a "strip of green terrain â€" intricately green â€" that sneaks into the Atlantic Ocean as an accidental prank".

The beautiful Samana beaches, described by El Mundo magazine as "pristine" and "idyllic", are sure to please even the holidaymaker with the most discerning taste. These beaches are the perfect combination of sun, sea and sand and most importantly holidaymakers are able to bask in the serenity that escapes many travellers on their caribbean holidays with many destinations overrun by tourists.

Fortunately for the more active holidaymaker, holidays in Samana are not just about spending a lazy day on the beach listening to the calming sound of the waves lapping gently against the shore. Samana is one of nine distinct ecological zones in the Dominican Republic making it an ideal spot for anyone interested in a eco-friendly adventure.

Holidaymakers fortunate enough to book a stay in Samana between the months of January and March will have the once in a lifetime opportunity to observe the hump back whale- one of nature's most mystifying creatures. As many as 5000 whales make the journey from the cold waters of Iceland, Greenland and Canada to the Dominican Republic's Samana Bay to mate and calve.

In addition to whale watching, visitors on their Dominican Republic holidays in Samana can enjoy an adventurous jeep safari or even a deep dive to explore the colourful and captivating marine life hidden within Samana's waters. For the loved up couple hoping to strike a balance between adventure and romance there is nothing better than a romantic horse ride to the popular Salto Limon waterfall.

There is something for everyone in Samana so why not book before one of the Dominican Republic's best kept secrets gets out.

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Trendy Tips When Beach Vacation

If you drop this week go to the beach vacation, then make sure you bring equipment such as cameras, sunblock and swimsuit.
But what about Wardrop choice for a vacation? Although on vacation, does not mean we can not be stylish, do not think just wearing baggy clothes, flip flops, shorts. Diliburan try to be different this time.
First of all if you intend to swim in the sea, make sure you bring your favorite swimsuit. You can bring 2 pairs of clothes. The first option, choose a patterned vertical lines to make it look more slender. Do not forget to wear sunglasses, hat and gloves beach. That way you will look trendy.
If you are not interested to go plunging into the sea, put on shorts and a shirt made ​​from a tunic. Go kepantai not have to wear a tank top. If you want to wear a bikini, add a thin top coat for your body. That way you will look sexy.
Kepantai not usually go out with play sand. To put it short dress with halter collar that will make your skin a natural sun tanning.
If you go kepantai just to cool off from work activities, more precise you are looking for a place on the beach to relax.
The right clothing is made ​​from a thin summer dress. It will make looks girly. Do not forget to bring a book or MP3 so you can enjoy the breezes and beautiful beaches. Good luck

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Tips Honeymoon Travel Trends for 2012

In the process of research and pre-selection of beautiful honeymoon destinations, it is almost impossible to feel excited and inspired. The world is home to some incredible places for couples who often offer breathtaking landscapes and once in a lifetime experience.
In 2012, this is certainly no exception.
Since many of the honeymoon destinations outside world, it is important to ensure that the safety of passengers in place before leaving the house. Of course, the costs associated with weddings and honeymoons are associated pick up quickly, but there is often a relief to know that both parties to complete, but reporting on cheap travel insurance can be purchased. By purchasing a policy, travelers should ensure that the cover and protects it well covered for the activities to be performed or when traveling.
In 2012, in several places honeymoon trends of the most interesting and beautiful climb. Here are some of the best:
Bora Bora, Tahiti:
Set in front of white sandy beaches surrounded by palm trees, overlooking the lagoon and some of the nicest people you will ever meet and hospitable. This is Bora Bora. The goal is an island in Tahiti honeymoon a postcard perfect South Pacific known for providing magical and exotic experience for the bride and groom.
In Bora Bora, guests can relax and enjoy the beauty of the place or take on a range of activities, especially those based on water.
Maui, Hawaii:
No wonder that Maui is the most important destination for honeymoon in Hawaii, and one of the best in the world. Maui is an ideal place for a honeymoon, such as tropical forests, beautiful beaches, beautiful beaches, volcanic peaks and the complex world of luxury.
In essence, Maui has all the necessary components for a magical honeymoon and arrange for the appropriate way to celebrate and relax after the wedding ceremony.
Mauritius:
Mauritius is a tropical paradise, which may often (and rightly) known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean. Seems a honeymoon destination very popular in 2012, Mauritius has a warm, tropical climate, beautiful scenery, sandy beaches, white mineral and incomparable natural beauty.
Offering warm hospitality and care shown generally honeymoon, Mauritius is the perfect place for family and spending time with her lover.
Maldives:
For couples, the special and intimate moments of life together to want the fullest, The Maldives is the perfect place. The Maldives offers beautiful scenery and options range from the luxury of serenity and style, decadent luxury. In more than 80 existing stations exclusive island in the Maldives, and the landscape is green with vegetation, tropical and picturesque white sand beaches, surrounded by palm trees decorated.
New Caledonia:
A place of natural beauty that some divine beaches of the South Pacific, together with the properties of the world’s largest lagoon, New Caledonia is an option, ideal for honeymoons and more popular. In fact, the great charm of New Caledonia, which is unique in its range of luxury hotels, a large and cosmopolitan style French cuisine is … This position allows honeymoon in the South Pacific to experience a bit of romance and charm of France, near the hot water and a wonderful climate.
The Seychelles:
Spectacular rock formations, white sandy beaches, clear water and warm, tropical vegetation dominate the honeymoon destination is beautiful and perfect in the Seychelles. Honeymoon in the Seychelles have many wonderful ways, including: La Digue, Iceland and the beaches of the island with his Paslin really great.
Fiji:
Fiji is a cozy and romantic – two qualities that make it a great destination for a honeymoon special and memorable. Beautiful beaches, charming villages, more than 300 tropical islands, great hospitality and friendly people truly a honeymoon destination Fiji became popular in the past and will continue in 2012.
This year it seems that the trend undoubtedly continue in the honeymoon destinations in the warm tropical. Perfect weather, white sandy beaches, excellent accommodation and numerous opportunities for romance and relaxation are the perfect ingredients for a very special honeymoon and this is reflected in the trends of the honeymoon is seen for the year 2012.

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Dringking & Nightlife Travel in Singapore

Dringking & Nightlife in Singapore

Step aside, New York City. Once-boring Singapore has stolen your ‘city-that-never-sleeps’ mantle. From small, poorly lit watering holes where characters straight out of Tom Waits ballads might meet to exchange tales over whiskey sours to thumping all-night clubs where fashionistas gather to dance until the birds are twittering, this city has something to offer people of every taste and inclination seven nights a week.

WHERE TO DRINK

In Singapore, what’s hot and what’s not changes as regularly as the seasons (if Singapore actually had seasons) meaning that this month’s happening club may well be next month’s old news. That and the sharply rising price-per-square-metre of commercial space mean that a club can open, gain and lose hipster status, and close down in a span of time slightly less than the career of your average boy-band. Neighbourhoods, for the most part, tend to retain their character for a bit longer, and for this reason we’ve gone ahead and expanded our listings to include a bit more verbiage about the streets and alleys surrounding the bars and clubs, which might still be hot (or even there) by the time this book goes to press.

How Much?

Barring Brunei, Singapore is probably the most expensive place in Southeast Asia for drinking and nightlife. A combination of liberal licensing laws and free-market economics breeds high prices, especially in some of the city’s trendier joints, where an evening’s libations can set even a casual drinker back a hefty sum. Those who are looking for spirits on the cheap, and don’t mind plastic tables and fluorescent lights, can hang out at hawker centres and coffeeshops, drinking $6 bottles of Tiger to their hearts’ content. A beer at most city bars can set you back between $10 and $15, ditto for mixed drinks, and many of the more upscale clubs have entrance fees of $20 or more (though these will usually include a drink).
If you’re looking to save on libations, hit the bars early to take advantage of the happy hours; these typically stretch from around 5pm to 8pm, sometimes later. At these times you’ll generally get two of most drinks for the price of one and cheaper ‘housepours’, which are the bar’s selections of spirits or wine. On Wednesday or Thursday night, some bars offer cheaper (sometimes free) drinks to women, presumably on the assumption that drunk women attract paying men. Of course, if you’re really tight, you can always drink $5 beers in your hostel.

Opening Hours

While the government maintains tight controls on many aspects of life in the Lion City, Singapore’s licensing laws are positively laissez-faire, and many bars and clubs stay open until the early hours, some right through to breakfast. Generally speaking, expect most clubs to open around 5pm, and stay open until 1am or 2am from Sunday to Thursday, and until about 3am on Friday and Saturday. We’ve made note of bars and clubs that keep hours vastly different from this.

 

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