WTTC warns Brazil must work to improve tourism performance

Brazil cannot rely on the FIFA 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympic Games to stimulate international visitors World Travel & Tourism Council president David Scowsill has warned in a wide ranging speech on the issue.
Scowsill explained: “Tourism is making a major contribution to that exciting economic growth, but there remains much to be done with infrastructure build and marketing the country to international markets.
“This is a dynamic time for Brazil - exports are booming in one of the fastest growing major economies in the world.
“Economic reforms have given the country new international recognition and influence.
Scowsill was speaking at PANROTAS in Sao Paolo.
Tourism made a total contribution to Brazil’s GDP in 2012 of 402 billion reals, which was nine per cent of the - more than that of the chemicals manufacturing industry which stands at seven per cent and the mining sector which contributes 6.7 per cent.
In terms of direct contribution to GDP, tourism is almost twice the size of the automotive manufacturing sector in Brazil, supporting eight million direct, indirect and induced jobs in 2012.
Brazil ranks second in Latin America in terms of the flow of international tourists, but the domestic market represents the bulk of the industry, accounting for over 50 million trips annually.
Mexico is ahead of Brazil, attracting 22 million visitors per year, compared to Brazil’s 5.2 million.
France receives 76.8 million visitors a year and the USA 60 million.
Brazilians’ spending on trips abroad rose by 50 per cent in 2010 and 30 per cent in 2011.
Scowsill continued: “Brazilians are taking advantage of the stronger Real to travel, which is good news for the tourism industry elsewhere, but not good news for Brazil.
“Some 5.2 million international tourism arrivals per annum is low for a country the size of Brazil which has so much to offer visitors in terms of natural diversity – from rainforests, World Heritage sites, and eco-tourism, to beaches, adventure travel, history, culture and city experiences.
“The World Cup in 2014 and Olympics in 2016 will be four week bursts of intensity in terms of overseas visitors, but cannot be relied upon to be the sole drivers of international visitor growth in the future.
“The Brazilian tourism industry has to act and speak as one voice to tell the rest of the world about this wonderful country and everything it has to offer and put it firmly on the international tourist map.”

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New private car excursions with Crystal Cruises in 2013

Due to guest demand, beginning this spring, Crystal Cruises’ luxury travelers have a new and flexible private option for exploring Europe: their own car and driver, with local, English-speaking guide.  The new private car or van offerings allow singles, couples and small groups (8 maximum) to fully customise time ashore upon arrival.  While Crystal is launching the program in 50 European ports on Crystal Symphony Mediterranean cruises and Crystal Serenity Northern European cruises, the ultra-luxury line plans to extend the program to other destinations later in the year.
“Many of today’s luxury guests like to explore on their own, but don’t enjoy the hassle, time and questionable quality of searching for transportation and guides, as well as the aggravation of negotiating fees,” says John Stoll , vice president, land and port operations.  “With our trusted transportation and destination expertise at their disposal, and by using fully licensed and insured companies, guests can tour independently with ease and safety, as well as be ultra-flexible should they want to follow a last-minute insider’s suggestion or just see how they feel in the moment.”
The program is the newest addition to a rapidly-expanding roster of Crystal Adventures shore excursion choices, including:
*  Organised shore tours that range from special-interest adventures and city overviews to very intimate only-with-Crystal Cruises Boutique Adventures, and unique, high end Signature Collection experiences to You Care, We Care voluntourism excursions.
*  Private Options: For guests wanting to follow the same tour itinerary as select Crystal Adventures, privately.
*  Private Adventures: Ultra-personalised and fully customised to a guest’s exact wishes in advance by Crystal, including itineraries, admissions, meals, and transportation.
Overland Adventures: Multiple-day excursions on land, further from port, providing two to three days of intimate exploration ashore, with hotel stays.
The new private car and driver services start at $270 per car, with guides speaking languages other than English also available upon request.
Crystal’s passion for creating exclusive, eye-opening luxury shoreside experiences are cornerstones of its Crystal Adventures program, helping earn the line top ratings for two decades.

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Turkish Culture & Tourism Office UK is event partner for first Istanbul INN London

The Turkish Culture & Tourism Office UK will be the event partner for the first-ever INN London, held on 12-15 April, which will focus exclusively on Turkey’s cultural capital of Istanbul.
Running over four days this April, INN London will reveal what makes Istanbul unique, from its contemporary art and architecture, to its fashion, food, drink and cultural life.  This unique lifestyle & cultural experience bringing Istanbul’s leading architects, artists, designers, fashion designers, galleries & shops, as well as celebrity guest chef Silvena Rowe, to London this April will include a programme of cultural talks and events, information on travelling in Turkey as well as the chance to purchase Turkish products.
INN London is suitable for prospective travellers, those with an interest in what’s new and upcoming in Istanbul and for people looking to set up business links. INN Istanbul will then go on tour with events in the Middle East, Far East and the Americas.
Exhibitors at INN London will include galleries Pi Artworks, Dirimart, Gallery X-ist, Merkur, Elipsis, Sanatorium, artSumer and Cda Projects; architects Emre Arolat Architects and Superpool; fashion houses Vakko and interior designers Iksel and Merve Kahraman.
Director of the Turkish Culture and Tourism Office UK, Tolga Tuyluoglu, says: “INN London is an exciting project and one that resonates with our objectives in promoting Istanbul’s varied cultural and tourist attractions to London and a wider UK audience. The extent of the research that has already gone into the project is impressive and it is evident that INN’s remit is to try and remain as authentic and true to Istanbul’s being as possible, whilst endeavouring to avoid cliché – a task which complements the strategy of this office”.

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Springtime for Charlotte! 10 reasons to fly there now

Many a traveler moves through Charlotte; fewer stick around. For some, it's just a busy hub airport, visited occasionally while taking advantage of US Airways' often reasonable fares to other places. We know it as an important financial capital, we know it's not Charleston, or Asheville, or any other popular destination located within striking distance. Why stick around and get to know the Queen City? Out of plenty of reasons, here are ten good ones to get you started.

1. Not just a banking center

Yes, it's a banking capital, but Charlotte has an attractive creative side. One of the city's oldest cultural institutions is the Mint Museum, a two-campus set-up known for both an impressive art collection and a popular craft and design museum. The original Randolph campus is housed in a historic building that used to be the United States Mint hence the name. The central campus of the Mint is part of the city center's Levine Center For The Arts, a cultural district containing the impressive little Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and a handful of other worthwhile stops (levinecenterarts.org). For some art at street level, head up Davidson Street to Charlotte's artsy NoDa neighborhood. Here, a twice-monthly art crawl held on the 1st and 3rd Friday of every month, starting at 6pm takes place in and around some of the city's finest galleries. Soak up the vibe at Dolce Vita, a low-key wine bar and neighborhood gathering spot (3205 N. Davidson St.).

2. Food wonderful food

For many visitors, the love affair with Charlotte starts with the stomach. Where to begin? Depends who you ask, but it's likely many will suggest the delectable fried bird from Price's Chicken Coop, just a couple of stops on the LYNX train from the convention center (1614 Camden Rd.). Or the soul staples at Mert's (214 N. College St.). Or maybe a little Brunswick Stew, that hearty regional specialty, at Mac's Speed Shop, a popular 'cue joint and biker bar (2511 South Blvd.)? Then there's the pimiento cheese caviar of the Carolinas at Midwood Smokehouse (1401 Central Ave.). And the Carolina-style pulled pork at Queen City Q (225 E. 6th St.) And fried pickles at the legendary Penguin Drive-In (1921 Commonwealth Ave.). When your body cries "no more!", do a mini-juice cleanse at Luna's Living Kitchen, a cheerful South End spot known for its fresh and tasty vegetarian / vegan-friendly menu (2120 South Blvd.).

3. NASCAR heaven

Got a need for speed? You probably already know all about Charlotte, home to the historic Charlotte Motor Speedway and the NASCAR Hall of Fame. And while the lion's share of visitors to the city are content to remain spectators to one of the South's favorite pastimes, bolder visitors and those who don't mind shelling out a few bucks can sign up for the Richard Petty Driving Experience, which offers a range of experiences, from an affordable ride-along ($99 for three laps) to a knuckle-whitening drive, starting at $449 for 8 laps (drivepetty.com). Afterwards, repair to Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s Whisky River, a popular bar and restaurant back in town for a drink and some snacks off the sports fan-friendly menu (210 E. Trade St.).

4. Lots of great outdoors

From the gentle flow of the city's beautiful Freedom Park to the top of rugged Crowders Mountain just a short drive west of the city skyline, Charlotte is one of those all-too-rare cities with plenty of room for nature to flourish; driving its many tree-lined streets, it can sometimes feel as if you're not in a city at all. For a true walk in the woods, disappear into the 737-acre Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, offering plenty of solitude along 10 miles of hiking trails (charmeck.org).

5. Cool neighborhoods

Food trucks, farmers markets, cool cafes, galleries all bases are pretty much covered in the city's historic South End neighborhood, a popular spot for the young and hip to live and play. Your best bet is to come down here for the monthly gallery crawl held on the first Friday of each month or for the neighborhood's lively Saturday morning market at the Atherton Mill complex. While you're there, grab a tasty, carefully-sourced breakfast from the Roots Farm Food truck (southendclt.com).

6. Riding the rapids, safely

The U.S. National Whitewater Center offers all of the thrills associated with whitewater rafting with none of the pesky threat of dying after being dashed on the rocks or whatever else can go wrong when you hit actual rapids. An official Olympic Training Site, the Center doesn't mess around they'll whip you into good shape and have you rafting like a champ. They can do more than that, of course instruction in more relaxed arts, such as stand-up paddle boarding, will have you ready for your next trip to Waikiki. Like to stay on dry land? The center's miles of mountain biking trails make for a terrific day adventure, too (usnwc.org).

7. Luxury lodging

After pushing it to the limit, why not reward yourself with a spa day? At the Ritz-Carlton Charlotte, housed in a sleek, LEED Gold-certified tower at the heart of Uptown (that's what they call the downtown around here), the spa offers a popular detox massage that incorporates honey harvested from the hotel's own beehives, housed up on the building's green roof (80 minutes, $90; ritzcarlton.com). Twenty minutes west of town, The Ballantyne is a resort-like escape featuring a beautiful spa facility that invites sticking around all day, or maybe longer. Start off with the Little Bit of Bliss, a 25-minute massage that's ideal for those whose fists are as tight as their shoulders it's a bargain at $65 (theballantynehotel.com).

8. It's in bloom

The 10-acre botanical garden at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte is a real sight to see, from the indoor worlds at the McMillan Greenhouse complex to beautiful outdoor gardens showcasing landscapes both local and exotic, you can easily spend a beautiful morning here and it's free (gardens.uncc.edu). For a garden that's a little more secret, head over to Wing Haven, a private walled paradise built by environmentalist Elizabeth Clarkson and her husband Edwin back in the 1920's. It's a gorgeous three-acre escape that doubles as a bird sanctuary (winghavengardens.com).

9. Moonshine tasting at a bowling alley?

It may not be world-famous for its nightlife, but Charlotte sure knows how to party. At the South End's TEN Park Lanes, dozens of beer taps and a solid food menu (try the barbecue) is complimented by a wide selection of artisanal moonshine yes, that's a thing in the South these days (1700 Montford Dr.). Head spinning? Need some air? Head for the garden at VBGB, a boisterous, new-ish beer garden; their selection from the local NoDa Brewing Company are a must-try (920 Hamilton St.). Wherever the night takes you, end up at Snug Harbor in the Plaza Midwood neighborhood. Here, a classic dive feel is the draw for a happening crowd that piles in for good live music, stiff drinks and lots of free atmosphere (1228 Gordon St.).

10. Scenic mountains nearby

Charlotte's fun, but if this is your first visit to the region, you shouldn't be allowed to leave without taking at least a day trip up to the Blue Ridge Mountains. From the unforgettable summit of Mt. Mitchell the highest peak east of the Rockies at 6,684 feet to a leisurely afternoon on the winding, historic Blue Ridge Parkway, to the food scene in Asheville it's must after must up here. There's more, there's tons more, but this is a start. And, bonus: this is all roughly two hours or so from town. Get in the car and go.
More resources:

For more information on visiting Charlotte, check out www.charlottesgotalot.com.

For low fares to Charlotte (CLT) from where you live, check out Airfare Watchdog's "to" Charlotte listing page.

More in our reason to visit "smaller cities" series

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AMERICA’S GREAT OUTDOORS: Statue of Liberty to Reopen by July 4th

March 21, 2013 

Statue of Liberty to Reopen by July 4th
Repairs Progressing on Docks, Energy Infrastructure, and other Facilities Damaged by Hurricane Sandy
Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced that the National Park Service expects to reopen the Statue of Liberty to visitors by July 4, 2013, after repairing the extensive damage to Liberty Island caused by Hurricane Sandy.

“Hurricane Sandy inflicted major damage on facilities that support the Statue of Liberty – destroying the docks, crippling the energy infrastructure on Ellis Island and wiping out the security screening system – but we are fully committed to reopening this crown jewel as soon as it’s safe for visitors and not a second later,” Secretary Salazar said. “Based on the tremendous progress we have made, Lady Liberty will be open to the public in time for the July 4th celebration.”
 ”July Fourth is the perfect day to reopen a symbol of our nation’s freedom, and speaks volumes about New York’s resilience,” said Senator Charles E. Schumer.  “Lady Liberty was hit hard by Superstorm Sandy, but just like New York, she will be back – and stronger than ever. Being open for the summer tourism season isn’t just important symbolically, it’s a boon to the city’s economy and businesses, as the statue attracts millions of tourists from all over the world to our shores.  I thank Secretary Salazar for his extraordinary work – he was uncommonly focused on getting this job done, and the people of New York appreciate it.”
 “My close friend and former colleague Secretary Salazar has been a true leader in protecting and showcasing Lady Liberty,” said Senator Robert Menendez. “We worked together to address safety and security concerns to reopen the crown and now he has helped bring this national treasure back after Superstorm Sandy.  The Statue of Liberty will stand as a symbol of the whole region rebuilding even better and stronger after the storm.”
 Salazar emphasized the importance of reopening the Statue to the New York economy. An annual report released last month by the National Park Service showed that 3.7 million people visited the park in 2011, generating $174 million in economic activity and supporting 2,218 jobs.
 “Across the country, our national parks are economic engines for local communities, with visitor spending providing a $30 billion benefit to the economy,” said National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis. “By moving forward quickly with the repairs at the Statue of Liberty, we are giving a boost to communities here in New York who have been so badly hurt by Hurricane Sandy.”

 Repairs to the docks needed to transport visitors to Liberty Island are being funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Lands Highways Program, as part of $28 million committed to roads and bridges in federal parks and recreation areas in New York and New Jersey damaged by Hurricane Sandy.
 Three days after taking office, Salazar visited the Statue of Liberty in January 2009 to announce that the crown, which had been closed following the terrorist attacks of 9/11, would be re-opened to the public by the following July 4th.
 “I fully expect that once again we will meet the July 4th deadline to reopen Lady Liberty, thanks to the commitment and hard work of the National Park Service staff, the Department of Transportation, and our many local and state partners,” Salazar said. “As we rebuild the region, we will do so in a way that makes New York and New Jersey stronger, safer and more resilient than ever before.”

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The Top 5 Reasons Why Jamaica is the Best Caribbean Island Vacation

The Top 5 Reasons Why Jamaica is the Best Caribbean Island Vacation

Jamaica

Jamaica Map

Travel Review

A lot of people have claimed that Jamaica would be the best Caribbean island to visit, hands down. Jamaica vacations are jam-packed with beautiful attractions and the warmest people. This is why most travellers and jet-setters would list Jamaica as one of the best Caribbean travel destinations. If you're still not convinced, here are the top five reasons why Jamaica has been dubbed as the best Caribbean island to visit:

1. Welcoming people.

Jamaicans

 

As soon as you land from the airport, you will immediately be greeted by local Jamaican people excited to provide you the best Caribbean vacation. The people in Jamaica are some of the most warm, friendly and hospitable people that you will ever meet, and because they are used to their island being a favorite tourist spot, they are more than willing to give you a tour of the area and show you around.

2. Laid back atmosphere.

Jamaica vacations are not only popular because of the place; Jamaicans are very laid-back and really know how to have a good time. They are very much into dancing and music, and even if you have never tried to do any of those in your life, you would find all your inhibitions melting away as you hear the music playing. I am sure you've heard the saying "No Problem, Mon" - well it is true, anything you ask for they will respond with "No problem".

3. Great food.

Jamaican Food

In Jamaica you will have some of the freshest seafood and meat, and that is because it is coming directly from the sea or directly from local farmers. You will see fishermen walking along the road with fish that they just caught, you will see a farmer bringing in fresh eggs from the farm in the mornings. You will see the market overflowing the fruits and vegetables from local farms. The spicy curry and jerk seasoning is something that I guarantee you will want to take home and make for your family well after your Jamaican vacation.

4. White sandy beaches.

Jamaica Beach

Pristine and exotic white beaches are probably one of the most important recipes to the best Caribbean travel, and a vacation to Jamaica is the place to be. The water is crystal blue and the beach sand is clean and white. One of the most beautiful beach areas you can imagine.

5. Great Culture.

Marley Grafiti

 

When you take your vacation in Jamaica, it is highly recommended to hire a local tour guide that can take you around the island to show you the culture of local Jamaicans. Learn how they shop for their meat, or buy their fresh fish. Drink a coconut by the side of the road. Learn more about the Rastafarians or old traditional healing. Make sure to soak in the culture as well as the great food.

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Honeymoons in Tahiti

Overwater Bungalow Honeymoons in Tahiti

Nothing says dream honeymoon like an overwater bungalow in Tahiti. Here are three options, from splurge to steal.

Overwater Bungalow Bliss What could be more romantic than shacking up in an overwater bungalow? Throw in the breathtaking setting of Bora Bora in Tahiti and you've got the recipe for a dream honeymoon. We found three options, from splurge to steal, where you can claim you own piece of paradise. Overwater Bungalow Honeymoons in Tahiti Nothing says dream honeymoon like an overwater bungalow in Tahiti. Here are three options, from splurge to steal. The Splurge: Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora The Spot Deluxe new resort on a sand-fringed motu (tiny islet). The Scene Overwater bungalows are more than 1,000 square feet and come with espresso machines, snorkeling gear and L'Occitane bath products. And with 24-hour room service, you never have to leave. Cool Touch Overwater Bungalow Honeymoons in Tahiti Nothing says dream honeymoon like an overwater bungalow in Tahiti. Here are three options, from splurge to steal. By Janice Mucalov  The Midrange: Pearl Beach Resort & Spa The Spot Renovated, midpriced property on its own motu. The Scene Yes, they have overwater bungalows, but for the best value, choose a garden suite with a private plunge pool and an indoor/outdoor bathroom where you can shower under the open sky. Cool Touch Swing in a beach hammock while gazing at craggy Otemanu Peak. Carved wooden doors and palm-weaved fans and hats left at nightly turndown add to the Polynesian flavor. Overwater Bungalow Honeymoons in Tahiti Nothing says dream honeymoon like an overwater bungalow in Tahiti. Here are three options, from splurge to steal. The Steal:                                                Le Maitai Polynesia The Spot Charming, bargain-priced hotel on Bora Bora's famous Matira Point. The Scene Celebrities flock to the island's posher places, but the air-conditioned garden rooms across the road from the hotel's white-sand beach offer some of the cheapest sleeps in paradise. Cool Touch You're greeted with fruit juice, a flower lei and a king bed decorated with hibiscus blossoms. Feeling energetic? Paddle the lagoon in a complimentary outrigger canoe.

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Top 10 spring destinations for 2013

For most students, spring break means sun, beach, fun and non-stop partying. For others, spring break is a time to travel and discover new parts of the world. There is no reason why these two objectives cannot be combined. You can have fun with your friends while discovering different parts of the world, different cultures and a different perspective on things. Take a look at the top ten spring destinations for 2013.

10. Paris and London

I’ve combined these two cities because they both can be explored in a short amount of time. Paris and London are connected through the Eurotunnel and can also be reached by train. Both cities are so full of life and offer an infinite amount of activities – sightseeing, shopping, culture and entertainment. The only downside is that you won’t be able to spot any sunny, sandy beaches around here…at least not during the spring months.

9. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana is an all-inclusive paradise. Most resorts in this area offer all-inclusive amenities meaning that you will be able to sleep, eat and party all without leaving the comfort of your resort. The beaches are beautiful, the entertainment is superb with some of the best Latin music originating from this country.

8. Negril, Jamaica

A seven mile stretch of white powder sand and crystal clear turquoise water is Negril’s best attraction. Here you can swim, dive or just relax with your friends. This is one of the top Spring Break destinations offering beach parties and Reggae concerts at affordable prices.

7. Acapulco, Mexico

Whether you are looking for an amazing time at the beach, a relaxing moment by the pool, or a romantic Mexico cruise, Acapulco is known as one of the top tourist destinations in the world. It offers beautiful beaches, top-notch entertainment and some of the best hotel facilities. Located on the Pacific side, Acapulco offers a variety of activities including water sports, cliff diving, world-class cuisine, international music and lots of fun at the beach, but it’s also more affordable than its counterpart in the Caribbean Sea – Cancun.

6. South Padre Island, Texas

Located almost at the border between Mexico and Texas, this island has been named one of the top 30 beaches in the world. South Padre Island offers a variety of activities for Spring Breakers from concerts to parties to aquatic sports and wildlife watching. It’s also important to note that it’s one of the most affordable Spring Break destinations.

5. Daytona Beach, Florida

Daytona is a classic spring break destination. Located on the Atlantic coast of Florida, Daytona is about 45 minutes away from all the Orlando attractions. This is probably one of the only beaches in Florida where cars and bikes are permitted. Activities and entertainment  abound in Daytona Beach – you will always find something to see and do within your budget.

4. South Beach, Miami, Florida

World-class hotels, international restaurants and top-notch entertainment make this city one of the hottest destinations in the world – Spring Break or not. South Beach offers all kinds of activities from big events such as celebrity-hosted parties to something as simple as sun bathing at the beach. The international crowd adds to the fantastic atmosphere that flows through this city all year long.

3. Ibiza, Spain

Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Ibiza is known for being the center for electronic music along with its spectacular nightlife. Ibiza offers beautiful beaches, museums, shopping and of course, world-class concerts with the best DJs in the world. Ibiza may not be the most affordable destination for college students, but it’s an experience that will last you a lifetime.

2. Panama City Beach, Florida

This is another classic Spring Break destination. With white sands and emerald waters, Panama City Beach caters to Spring Breakers like no other destination. You can relax on the beach or attend one of the many events hosted exclusively for Spring Breakers. Panama City Beach offers all kinds of activities from aquatic sports to museums and aquariums.

1. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is undoubtedly the number one Spring Break destination. It’s got all you could ever want from your spring break vacation – gorgeous beaches, incredible nightlife, beautiful hotels, world-class restaurants, excellent service, music, concerts, aquatic sports, and cultural expeditions to the Mayan ruins and Mexican jungle…and all of this at an affordable price. What else can you ask for? Seriously, Cancun is a city like no other…so go ahead and pack your bags!

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What to see in Dubai

Old Dubai

• Al Ahmadiya School, Deira. Built in 1912, this was Dubai's first school and has now been nicely restored. It would be a stretch to call the exhibits of old reed pens and diplomas fascinating, but they've tried pretty hard, and if nothing else, the air-con and clean toilets may come in handy. Free entry.

• Bastakiya District. One of the last remaining pockets of Old Dubai, home to many reconstructed buildings in the traditional style. While information on the structures is slim here (see the museum in preference), the atmosphere is very evocative and there are plenty of delightful art galleries and cafes to explore.

• Dubai Museum, Al Ibn Abi Talib Road, ph: +971 (4) 353-1862. A must-see for anyone interested in the social history of the Emirate (and indeed the country). A visit starts at the al-Fahidi fort, which has a few examples of the traditional reed houses and other artifacts, but isn't much to look at. The more interesting part is the modern extension built underneath the fort, showcasing Dubai's history using the latest technology and culminating in a reconstructed souq from the pearling days, complete with authentic sights and sounds. It is quite fascinating to see the speed at which the transition from poor pearling village to modern metropolis occurred. Admission 3AED.

• Jumeirah Mosque, Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah 1 (opposite Palm Strip Mall). Is the largest in the city, and a wonderful example of Islamic architecture. Built in the medieval Fatimid tradition with the interior decorated with elaborate Arabic calligraphy. It is one of few mosques in the city open for visits by non-Muslims, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding conducts special tours for non-Muslims to help promote understanding of Islam. Guided tours are available on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday beginning at 10AM, followed by a question-and-answer session. Located on Jumeirah Road, the mosque is an especially great place to visit in the evening when it's dramatically illuminated by floodlights. 

• Shindagha District — Home to the open museums of the Heritage Village, and has the home of former Sheikh Rashid Al-Maktoum.

• Souks — There are a number of nice souks, or markets, on both sides of the creek that are worth exploring. They sell everything from spices to crafts to very inexpensive tourist t-shirts.

Don't miss Dubai's overwhelming shopping malls, listed under Buy.

• Burj Khalifa. Until recently called Burj Dubai, at 828 metres and 160 floors this is the world's tallest structure by a long shot, over 300m taller than the previous contender in Taipei. The observation deck at the 124th floor is the 2nd highest in the world after the Shanghai World Financial center. Already dominating the Dubai skyline, the newly opened tower houses nine hotels and a Las Vegas-inspired fountain system. The visitors' entrance is located at the lower ground floor of Dubai Mall. Although the tour is called At the Top be aware that it isn't! Although the observation deck is the highest open deck in the world, at 452m it's just over halfway up the tower itself. Console yourself with the knowledge that most of the rest of the tower consists of service areas and the view below looks suitably ant-like. Tickets cost Dhs 100 for a timed entry ticket, usually later the same day, or Dhs 400 if you do not want to wait. Tickets can sell out several days in advance, and it is advisable to book them online ahead of your visit.

• The Dubai Fountain, At 270m (900ft) in length and sporting a jet that shoots water up to 150m (500 ft), the Dubai Fountain is indeed the world's largest dancing fountain and one with a very enticing display - a definite must see. The show starts every evening at the Burj Dubai Lake. Easy way to approach it is via the Dubai Mall.

Shows are every 30 minutes from 6pm to 10pm on weekdays and from 6pm to 11pm on weekends. It's the world’s largest dancing fountain with classical, Arabic and world music. About 1.5 million lumens of projected light and the spray heights of up to 150m/500 ft (22,000 gallons of airborne water).

• Burj al-Arab hotel. For a real glimpse into "how the other half lives", (self-proclaimed as the only 7 star hotel in the world), afternoon tea, or cocktails, may be an interesting experience. Entry to the hotel requires a reservation which will be confirmed at the entry gate, although residents of adjacent Jumeirah hotels may be able to visit by arrangement. Other tourists may occasionally be able to book tours of the hotel itself, however these will not run when the hotel is full. A "very smart casual" dress code applies. Reservations are usually required about a month in advance for a room, but a few days will generally suffice for a meal.

• Dubai Marina. One of the newer and more popular areas of Modern Dubai, both with residents and tourists. It offers numerous features such as a phenomenal skyline, world class hotels, a fabulous beach, a mall, and 2 different walkways (The Walk and Marina Walk) with coffee shops, restaurants, and shops. Marina Walk is right on the "Marina water", and there are many yachts there. You can rent a yacht for a cruise around the area. The Walk has a nice open market run from October till May, every Fridays and Saturdays at daylight. 

• Palm Islands. The three largest artificial islands in the world are located just off the coast of Dubai; a major urban development to add a significant amount of upscale beachfront property to the area. Each of the islands is shaped like a palm leaf, with a trunk connected to the mainland, fronds extending from the trunk, and a crescent (a breakwater encircling the trunk and fronds). Of the three planned, the Palm Jumeirah, at 5km square and near Dubai Marina, is the only one yet open, connected to the mainland by a freeway bridge and a monorail and sporting marinas, luxury resorts, and upscale shopping areas

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