Middle East Archives - Seek Your Trip

December 19, 2018 by Arlene

WHY DUBAI IS KNOWN AS THE CITY OF THE FUTURE

Dubai is a popular destination in the Middle East that is rapidly making a name for itself on a global scale. The city is quickly becoming known as the City of the Future, but you may not know why.

Keep reading to learn why Dubai has received the title of the “City of the Future.”

1: IT IS AN EVER-GROWING CITY

The city is always changing thanks to the expansion of the skyline due to new real estate projects in Dubai. More and more people are visiting the city and even making it their new home, sparking the need for this expansion. Projects like Madinat Jumeirah Living

& Port de La Mer, continue to attract real estate investors from all around the world.

Be it Madinat Jumeirah Living or Port de La Mer, top real estate brokers in Dubai can help anyone snuggle in to any of these properties. The new real estate projects in Dubai are always so beautiful and are ready to make way for even more people in the future!

2: IT IS A BUSINESS CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

Business makes the world go ‘round and it is no different in the bustling city of Dubai. The city is being known as the City of the Future thanks to its ability to unite business ventures in both the Eastern and the Western region of the world.

The city has become a popular destination for business events and even has several business-related events scheduled throughout the year that are free and affordable to everyone. Many believe that Dubai will soon be the place where world leaders will come together to discuss global economy, transportation, food, healthcare, construction, and much more.

3: IT USES AMAZING TECHNOLOGY

Because of the surge of visitors that come each and every year, the Dubai airport, according to the BBC, has increased technology to help cope with the ever-growing tourist surge. For example, the airport has its own control station where they can view each and every person in the airport thanks to infrared technology. They can see this and predict if there will be any surges.

The city also plans to build a “hyper loop,” a sort of subway that will link from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, which will help ease traffic congestion throughout the city.

These are just three of the endless reasons Dubai has quickly become the City of the Future. Everyone everywhere is excited to continue to watch this city grow and expand into a futuristic location built for commerce, by technology, and for everyone!

September 28, 2013 by Arlene

“Saudi Arabia – an excitingly mysterious country

Desert, petrol rigs and women in disguise – often these are the things coming up first when you think of Saudi Arabia. However, this country, that covers the greatest part of the Arabian Peninsula, has a lot of historic and cultural treasures to offer. Saudi Arabia is home of the two most holy places of the Islam: Medina and Mecca, cities with outrageous buildings like the “Qubbat al Nabi” (mosque of the prophet) or Al-Masjid al-Haram. However, Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter these two cities, but there are other, fascinating places you can go during your trip to Saudi Arabia. Try a stay in Jeddah, a beautiful city at the Red Sea that offers not only wonderful architecture but also a wide range of leisure time activities such as diving or sailing.

Travelling to Saudi Arabia you will arrive at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, which, by the way, is operated by the German airport operator Fraport. Direct flights from London to Riyadh take about five to six hours and are offered by different airlines. For example, you can find flights with Saudi Arabian Airlines on fly.co.uk. If you plan an extensive trip through the Arabian countries, there are flight connections from Saudi Arabia to Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Yemen and other destinations.

There are some points of interest you should not miss during your stay in Saudi Arabia. In Riyadh, you should visit the National Museum, take a walk through the beautiful Salam Park or make an extensive shopping trip on King Fahad Street. Interested in history? Then an excursion to Mada’in Saleh is recommended. At this archaeological site that belongs to UNESCO world heritage, you will find a row of monumental rock-cut tombs dated to the first century. But no matter where you go, remember that you are travelling a strict Islamic country. Therefore, in any case you should respect religious opinions and rules concerning dress codes or your behaviour in public. Then you can dive into the secrets of this mysterious country and will certainly enjoy your stay in Saudi Arabia.”

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Photo by waltercallens on Flickr

May 27, 2013 by Arlene

Fine Dining Under the Sea

Fine dining has gone up a notch with the construction of these amazing underwater restaurants, which are a hit among many tourists who want to experience dining in the middle of a coral garden as they are being watched by curious fish. Should you find yourself in Israel, Maldives or Dubai, be sure to try these underwater restaurants for that out of the ordinary gastronomic experience.

Red Sea Star

This is a sassy restaurant situated 5 metres under the Red Sea in Israel, with its wonderfully designed and decorated dining halls. The curvy windows of plexiglass both at the walls and ceilings of provide diners with a view of the beautiful reef system and some marine animals swimming to and fro. The bright sunlight that passes through to the waters are complimented by the soft light that emanates from the unique, jellyfish like lighting fixtures – one of the items in the restaurant’s interiors that keeps true to its theme. Looking around, one would notice that the restaurant is actually shaped liked a starfish, which is why it is also referred to as “The Star” and can accommodate up to a little over a hundred famished guests and visitors. Despite being an underwater restaurant, the menu is not limited to fish only as they also serve local and international cuisines of meat and others.

Ithaa Underwater Restaurant

Located 16 feet under the Indian Ocean, this underwater restaurant is one that allows visitors to enjoy a 180 degree view of the cool blue waters and the surrounding coral reef garden and aquatic animals. The restaurant is shaped into a semi-circle with clear glass from the floor to the ceilings, offering diners an unobstructed view of all the beautiful marine surroundings. The restaurant opened in 2005 as part of the Hilton Maldives Resort and Spa. Despite the very stunning views, though, the restaurant is pretty small and is able to hold up to 14 guests only. Nonetheless, it is a great dining experience and serves cuisines influenced by both Asian and Western cultures. Ithaa operates from 11 am to 12 am, and serves lunch and dinner only, although breakfasts (and other occasions) can be arranged by contacting the concerned personnel and making reservations. It should be noted though that children are only allowed in the restaurant during lunch hours and not at dinner time.

Al Mahara

While Ithaa means the “Mother of Pearls”, the Al Mahara in Dubai means “The Oyster” and is considered to be the “azure jewel” of Burj Al Arab. First of all though, this restaurant is not situated underwater, but despite this, guests and diners will feel as though they are because of the grand and gargantuan aquarium in the middle of the restaurant. The aquarium that has its own coral reef system and is filled with various marine creatures starts from the restaurant’s floor and reaches up to the ceiling – which makes it another wonderful addition to the amenities of Dubai’s (and the world’s) only 7 star resort hotel.

Most of these restaurants of course can be a bit pricey, but for the lavish interiors, great food and the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, every penny is surely worth it.

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Photo by family-ralph on Flickr

April 11, 2013 by Arlene

The Hidden Delights of Turkey

Turkey: where east meets west. It’s a perfect cross-pollination of European and Middle-Eastern culture, both classic and cosmopolitan all at once. This is a country steeped in history and natural beauty that can cater to both those looking for exquisite sights and cultural experiences, as well as those looking for a top-notch shopping spree.

Here are some hidden gems worth looking out for in Turkey:

Antalya

Found between the dizzying peaks of the Taurus Mountains and the beautiful Mediterranean Sea is Antalya. Here you will find exquisite sights of gorgeous Ottoman architecture and grand Roman ruins. Explore the old, narrow streets and open your eyes to the past. There’s even a chance to feed the shopaholic in you at the port. No wonder this flourishing city is the jewel in the Turkish crown.

Koprulu Park

If hiking is your thing, then head to Koprulu Park. Find yourself in the lush surroundings of the park’s picturesque forest and follow the track to the top, where you’ll be greeted by spectacular views of the Valley of Koprulu and the Taurus Mountains.

Selge

If adventure is your thing, why not take on the challenge of mountain biking the slopes of Selge? Bump along the rocky paths and experience the fantastic panoramic views of the canyons and forests of Ortüluvadi below.

Manavgat market

For the shoppers, be sure to visit the Manavgat market. Mix with locals and sample traditional Turkish fare, such as the rich and sweet baklava pastry. There’s also plenty for those looking for a bargain. Head on over to the Side Market, the market to the rear of Demokrasi Boulevard or the covered section of the main market for clothes, watches and jewellery.

Termessos

Head out to Termessos for an excursion into both natural beauty and historic grandeur, all in one place. The ancient city of Termessos is situated in a protected national park, located at an impressive altitude of 3,444 ft. Witness the spectacular sight of the Greek theatre, among the numerous other ruins and monuments.

Taurus safari

All you nature lovers should be sure not to miss the Taurus safari. Bounce along in your 4×4 and enjoy the sights of ibex, deer, chamois, konya sheep and the spectacular brown bear. It’s a real adventure in the heart of Turkey’s stunning countryside.

Belek Villas

Those looking for a 5 star holiday to Turkey can enjoy Club Med’s Belek Villas, which are four trident resorts that give you the perfect base from which to explore all the sites and activities above.

Situated on the Turkish Riviera, each villa has its own private indoor/outdoor wading pool and sauna. Your space is completely your own, so you are free to relax in your own environment. The quality butler and concierge service means you don’t need to worry about a thing and they can arrange any activity for you.

You don’t need to go so far afield either; there are plenty of activities in the resort to keep you occupied – and the area is world famous for its golf courses.

If you’re travelling as a family, then there’s no need to worry about the kids. There are both children’s clubs and teen clubs that cater to any age group, so no one’s at risk of boredom. Just make sure your family get a Turkey Visa or you won’t get very far! 😛