Category Archives: Middle East

Cairo’s Khan El Khalili-The Colourful Labyrinth of Shopping Wonders

Sitting in the heart of Islamic Cairo, Khan El-Khalili bazaar is one of the most prized possessions of Cairo. The ever bustling bazaar quivers with eternal glory and transports you to an old Arab souk. Perhaps, it remains a compelling stop for almost every traveler who spends on tickets aboard Cairo bound flights. Here, shop owners clamour and call you to their stalls, the distinctive odour of spices and aplomb oozes out of every corner. Founded in 1382, this market substantially contributed to the development of trade from the east to west.

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Shopping

The shopping experience of Khan el-Khalili remains for a lifetime! It incorporates world into itself as good from all over the globe arrive here and shine across its alleys and streets. The open-air bazaar is filled to brim with awe-inspiring items ranging from spices to perfumes and jewellery to souvenirs. Shoppers buying tickets on Cairo bound flights will be spoilt for choices. They can get hands on vast range of items such as jewellery in gold and silver. The alleys of the bazaar are laden with leather items from Egypt and all over the world. Tourists having penchants for silver can buy the amazing collection of trinkets and jewellery. Water pipes are ubiquitous and can be easily found in myriad of shops. Tourists can also grab the wonderful assortment of home decorations highly acclaimed for their artistry and many masterpieces.

Key Areas

Khan El-Khalili is sits beside two markets namely Bab Zuwayla and Azbakiyyah. It is fringed on the south by al-Azhar Street and Muski Market on the west. The ancient gates make for the entrance to the authentic courtyard at the middle of Sikkit al-Badistan (street). Nearby is the El-Fishawi Cafe, or Cafe of Mirrors, the popular cafe frequented by host of tourists who buy tickets aboard flights landing in Cairo. The area north of al-Badistan and to the west are highly revered by locals while west area of the Khan offering great deals of gold and silver is apt for shoestring travelers seeking to make the most of their money invested on tickets cheap air tickets on Egypt bound flights. Move further and check out the Brass as well as copper-smith markets.

Top Three Unusual Restaurants in Dubai

UAE’s dazzling emirate, Dubai simply bursts at its seams with innumerable recherché restaurants. But what sets it miles apart from other destinations is availability of restaurants that are a little out of the ordinary. No wonder, a number of European gastronomists book tickets on international flights bound for Dubai with a desire to dine in style. Here are just three unusual dining pads for gourmands on flights bound for Dubai.  

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Chillout

First ice lounge in entire Middle East, Chillout is a popular restaurant-bar in Dubai. Featuring -5 degree Celsius temperature, this stunningly beautiful bistro unfolds as an apt retreat to beat Dubai’s scorching heat. The restaurant-bar features an exclusive interior where everything from furniture to fittings is made of specially prepared, crystal clear ice. With its tantalizing menu and cool ambiance, it is no wonder why Chillout has become an unmissable attraction for most epicureans and sun-downers who invest on air tickets aboard Dubai bound flights.

Atmosphere

Ranking among the world’s highest restaurants, Atmosphere is another chi-chi fine-dining venue that promises to tickle pink every epicurean hopping aboard flights destined for Dubai. Set on the 122 floor of Burj Khalifa, Atmosphere is a neck-craning restaurant that certainly is breathtaking in more than one sense. A superb menu of international fare with sea food and grilled meat and hypnotic views of the majestic Dubai Fountain and endless skyscrapers, this restaurant is undoubtedly among the best in town.

Ossiano

Ossiano at Atlantis, The Palm hotel is highly acclaimed not only for its exquisite a la carte menus but also for the mesmeric views of the aquarium that dominates the walls of this restaurant. The restaurant ensures a pleasing rendezvous with marine life including sharks and rays from close quarters. The menus consist of contemporary cuisines prepared by three-star Michelin chef Santi Santamaria. Ideal for an intimate dining experience, Ossiano is a wonderful venue for newly weds and honeymooners booking air tickets aboard flights destined for Dubai.

Shopping & Eating at Cairo International Airport: A Real Pleasure!

Egyptian capital, Cairo is a terrific tourist destination. The city has all the charisma, mystique and the romanticism to capture the interest of even those holiday makers who aren’t supposed to be easily pleased. Every year, millions book flights to the city airport, with many of them being first-time visitors. Cairo International Airport is well adept in handling the demands and desires of incoming and outgoing passenger traffic, and maintains a long inventory of passenger services and amenities. Let us talk about two of the most basic yet very useful ones.

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Dining at Cairo International Airport

There is simply no dearth of dining options at Egypt’s busiest airport. Some of the planet’s most well recognized brands as well as a plenty of local eating joints can be found at different locations of the airport. Variety is not a problem either. Owing to Egypt’s central location, Cairo is popular stopover for travelers from all corners of the world, and hence the diversity in passenger traffic has led to the emergence of restaurants with various sorts of cuisines. So, while you have an American fast food major, Burger King at Terminal 1, you also have an Asian food specialist, YUMCHA at Terminal 3. For those who prefer a rather cheap fare, there is a McDonald’s. Bill Bentley’s, Puro Gusto, Gino’s Pizza and Pasta, Cilantro and Segafredo Cafe are some other dining options that can please passengers who have flights to and from Cairo International Airport.

Shopping at Cairo International Airport

Like dining, shopping is big at the airport. Keen shoppers who have heard a thing or two about Cairo’s specialty shopping would be able to start their retail expedition right from the airport, as soon as they get off flights! The duty free adds to the magic and surely turns up the heat for compulsive buyers who are boarding Cairo bound flights. Egypt Air Duty Free, at Terminal 3, is the place to be for cheap bargains. It is a huge arcade and offers a wide range of global brands that are not to be found in any other airport of the country.

Cairo Airport Duty Free, on the first floor of Terminal 1, is another option for making up for expensive flights tickets with pocket-friendly deals!

Top 3 Things to Do For Families with Kids in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is a place for all – be it those who have culture and religion on their minds or the ones who seek a luxury trip after spending on flights or the families who wish to treat the younger members with a flurry of enriching activities and avenues. While a lot has been written about Abu Dhabi’s cultural wealth and lavish hotels, a precious little can be found that deals with kid-friendly attractions of the city. Here is a quick attempt on the latter.

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HiliFunCity: Al Ain is home to HiliFunCity, one of the best places to spend a day of fun and frolics with family in the UAE. It is colorful theme park that teems with a variety of rides, not only for kids but also for adults who love a bit of thrill. Daredevils are usually most enamored by the Sky Flyer, billed as the most extreme ride in HiliFunCity. Kids will perhaps be gravitated towards more subdued but no less fun options like circus train, bumper cars or the electric boats on the Crazy Marina. There is no need to worry about all the exertion and famishment as within the theme park, there are plenty of food outlets and picnic tables. Tickets for the theme park are priced reasonably. Certainly, a must visit for families who are boarding Abu Dhabi flights to have some fun.

Abu Dhabi Wildlife Center: Families would love to educate their wards something about the big cats after investing on flights. And what better place than Abu Dhabi Wildlife Center to do so! Tickets can be booked for one hour guided tour, which will allow guest to spot animals like cheetahs, tigers, lions, leopards and jaguars. Cost of tickets for children under 12 years old is almost half of that of adults.

Abu Dhabi Ice Rink: Tourists who book flights for summer adventure in the UAE and are looking to escape the heat can book tickets/passes for Abu Dhabi Ice Rink. It is not a very expensive prospect and can be termed cheap by UAE standards. Kids will love to whiz away on their blades searing the ice, having a wonderful time in the process. Parents who need some relaxation can opt to sit in an on-site cafe.

Finest Attractions for Tourists Visiting Glittering Dubai

Dubai in UAE is a desert oasis that has enamoured the world with its remarkable addresses that are sprinkled across its lavish shores. The place is an architectural masterpiece, flaunting sky kissing buildings and world class luxuries that have captured the imaginations of millions of travel aficionados. This fantastic emirate of superlatives adorns the jewel studded tiara of housing the tallest tower, the largest mall, and the most expensive hotel in the world. Here is a smorgasbord of some of the finest attractions of Dubai that top the heap for tourists buying seats on flights for the place!

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Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the world, is a phenomenal feat of architecture that tops the itinerary of travellers taking flights for this affluence-filled place of UAE. While journeying to the top of the tower, visitors are entertained with the multi-media presentation that showcases the history of Dubai, and the story of the remarkable structure of Burj Khalifa. The view from the observation deck of this upscale property is absolutely enrapturing, and well worth the time and money spent on booking seats aboard UAE flights for the swanky Dubai.

The Dubai Fountains

These are the world’s largest dancing fountains that never fail to bowl over the onlookers! A trip to Dubai would be considered incomplete, and money spent on UAE flights wasted, without paying a visit to these fantastically splendid fountains. The Dubai Fountains shoot water jets as high as 500 feet, tantamount to the height of 50 storey building, accompanied by the beaming lights that make the venue the brightest spot in the entire UAE. The sight casts magical spell on the spectators, leaving them absolutely stupefied and awe-struck. No wonder, this fascinating venue is one of the reasons why flights to UAE are so sought after.

Ski Dubai

The world’s largest indoor snow park, Ski Dubai, is a winter wonderland, fabulously equipped with ethereal ice sculptures, tiny sledding hill, five ski runs and a freestyle zone having jumps and rails. It is an amazing site offering exciting opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing activities. Ski Dubai is a unique mountain-themed attraction that offers a scintillating opportunity to experience snow in the desert place of UAE round the year. The venue immensely adds to the popularity of flights to the emirate.

Yas Waterworld: An Ultimate Family Fun Destination in Abu Dhabi

Yas Waterworld is a huge water park packaged on the lines of a traditional amusement park and located on Yas Island close to Abu Dhabi. Those booking flights to this popular emirate may easily visit this destination as part of a day outing during their visit to Abu Dhabi. Billed as one of the largest projects ever executed, currently only Phase 1 of the project has been completed and two more phases are in the pipeline. Read on for some must know information about the Yas Waterworld and a few reasons why travellers who entry tickets to this park are left gloating about their decision to board Abu Dhabi bound flights.

The Theme and the Rides

Yas-Waterworld

The theme of this Waterworld is typically Emirati and it is entitled the “Legend of the Lost Pearl” with a small girl named Dana as its protagonist. As the story unfolds there are numerous rides of various intensities that are sure to give flights to the fancies of every visitor irrespective of their age. The highest level of adrenaline rush are associated with rides named Jebel Drop, Hamlool’s Drop, Liwa Loop and Bubble’s Barrel.

Apart from the really intense stuff, families with small children who book tickets aboard flights to the emirate of Abu Dhabi can also engage in fun activities at the location. The rides and activities for smaller children include Yehal, Tot’s Playground, Water Wars and Marah Fortress. These rides are popular with kids from all over the world and sure to keep both parents as well as children engaged in various gambols.

Shopping and Dining

Having memorabilia to show friends and families after disembarking flights back home is definitely the way to go and there’s ample opportunity to shop for such stuff at YAS Waterworld. Top shopping lures for Waterworld memorabilia include Tawasha Pearl Shop, Jewana Photo, Bandit Bomber Photo as well as Sultan and Sons. Additionally children arriving at Abu Dhabi onboard international flights can also enjoy a themed dining experience at this popular retreat. Top dining choices that are perfect for families visiting the location include Dana’s Diner, Yas Berry, Chubby’s Kitchen, Salma’s Snack Shack and Dhabi’s Ice Cream. Considering the numerous goodies on offer, it is not hard to understand why tickets to this amusement park seem cheap to anyone who takes a day trip after arriving in Abu Dhabi on long-haul flights.

Some Lesser Known Attractions to Spice up Your Trip to Cairo

Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, might be synonymous with the Giza Pyramid complex and the Sphinx, located away from the city, but that only one aspect of what Cairo can offer to visitors. Those booking their passage on-board flights destined for the metropolis can easily immerse themselves into various unique adventures when they reach here. Following is a short list of lesser known attractions that holidaymakers can visit by booking tickets on-board Cairo bound flights.

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Solar Boat Museum

History buffs who disembark flights at this metropolis should try and make their way to the Solar Boat Museum. The centerpiece is a boat belonging to the famous pharaoh Khufu. Though not featured prominently in guide books and popular itineraries of Cairo, it’s the best place in the city for those seeking further information about the pharaohs and their belongings beyond the pyramids and mummies. Tickets to the exhibition can be obtained at the location and though they are cheap, pre-booking is not necessary.

Cairo Opera House

For those interested in the music of the region, the opera house located in the heart of the city is well worth the tickets it takes to attend a show at the destination. It is open round the year and many leading musicians both local as well as international have performed at the venue. The melodies of a show here are sure to stay in the hearts of globetrotters long after they have boarded their flights to reach home.

Memphis Museum

This is a truly out of the way museum but it holds many wonders for those seeking to further their interest in ancient Egypt. Named after the old capital of the pharaohs, this place is home to numerous artifacts and statues that hark back to the days of ancient Egypt long before Cairo existed. The centerpiece of this establishment is the imposing limestone statue of Ramses II, considered to be the greatest pharaoh in the history of Egypt. It is only a short drive away from downtown, so those booking flights to Cairo should find time to visit it.

Top Three Must-See Attractions in Abu Dhabi

UAE’s colourful capital city of Abu Dhabi is one of the most popular holiday destinations across the globe. The emirate packs in a brilliant salmagundi of surprises lurking at every possible nook and cranny to delight sightseers on flights to the country. Let’s take a quick tour of just three popular attractions that go a long way in making one’s Abu Dhabi holidays a memorable affair.

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Emirates Palace

Emirates Palace is Abu Dhabi’s answer to Dubai’s Burj Al Arab! The Emirates Palace ranks amongst Abu Dhabi’s premier attractions and is located just outside the city on its own white sand beach. The domed, sand-coloured palace is flanked by verdant gardens, water fountains and sparkling pools that further accentuate its grandness. Given its soaring reputation, sybarites booking tickets on flights to the emirate make sure to stay here for a couple of days. But visitors who don’t want to splurge on a room can experience the property over a couple of drinks at one of the many bars or a rejuvenating treatment at the Anantara Spa.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Offering the true flavours of Islam, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is yet another star attraction that tempts visitors from all over the globe and makes them dig for airlines that offer tickets on cheap flights to Abu Dhabi. Dubbed as the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Mosque has four 350-foot minarets, 82 white marble domes and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. Sprawling to around 22,412 square metres, this landmark is fine example of Islamic architectural marvel and has been built with about 30 different types of marble brought from different parts of the world.

Heritage Village

Heritage village is perhaps one of the best places in the UAE to get an insight into the traditional Bedouin lifestyle, traditions and cultures in the pre-oil era. Visitors can peep into the lifestyle of the people of pre-oil era, mud-brick houses, old fishing villages and souks. Culture vultures booking tickets on international flights to explore UAE’s chequered past must do well to visit the mini-museum at the complex that features artefacts such as diving tools, jewellery, weapons and coffee pots to add glittering stars to their Abu Dhabi holiday experience.

 

Catch a Glimpse of Abu Dhabi’s Cultural Lures!

The incredible culture and heritage of Abu Dhabi is deeply rooted in Islamic customs, creating a radiating example of Islam’s warm hospitality. The combination of traditional customs and new age ethos lure tourists to look for cheap air tickets aboard flights arriving here.

Seikh Zayed Grand Mosqueabu-dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s Seikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a living example of awe-inspiring artwork. With grand architecture, fascinating design, striking sainted glasses and magnificent interiors adorned with huge chandeliers, the holy place entices hordes of tourists to board flights to Abu Dhabi. The mosque is open every day for the visitors expect Friday and offers an opportunity to shoot beautiful photographs. Being an Islamic city, locals are very particular about their customs and dress code, so tourists arriving on flights here are advised to wear proper attire and show respect to the local culture while visiting this place in Abu Dhabi.

Heritage Village

Travellers interested in the legacy and history of Abu Dhabi, get a glimpse of the emirate’s past while taking a tour to the Heritage Village! With a setting of the traditional village in oasis, the human made settlement demonstrates the reflection of the lifestyle of the Bedouin community. Maintained by the Emirates Heritage Club, the open museum boasts various features that depict the past, including goat’s hair tent, falaj irrigation system, campfire with coffee pot and many more. Travellers can ride a camel, decorate their hands with beautiful heena painting, hold a falcon, watch craftsmen making striking potteries, satisfy their taste buds with authentic Arabian foods and buy beautiful gifts made by locals – possibilities are endless!

Art lovers taking flights to the emirate of Abu Dhabi often take a tour to the Manarat al Saadiyat, one of the popular art centres in Abu Dhabi. Located in the Saadiyat district, the cultural centre features Zayed National Museum and four galleries where visitors can enjoy various exhibitions, cultural performances and theatrical productions depicting the history of the city. You do not need to buy any ticket to visit the venue. One can go through various e-books displaying on huge LCD screens, go for souvenir shopping from various gift shops located inside and taste delectable Arabian delicacies from the Fanr Restuarant before boarding flights back home.

 

Top 3 Traditional Egyptian Restaurants in Cairo

Cairo, the magical city of wonderful pyramids and pharaohs is packed with numerous attractions. But the city offers various reasons to the foodies as well to book flights for the metropolis. Here is some information about three most popular eating joints of Cairo.

Abou el-Sid

The winner of the Pan Arab Web Awards, Abou el-Sid is the first modern form of Egyptian bistro in Cairo that is very popular among the locals as well as with the gourmets arriving on flights here. Located in Zamalek, the classy restaurant offers delectable Cairo cuisines and authentic Egyptian spirits. The typical furniture setting, huge hanging lamps and the atmosphere of the place offer a traditional feel to the guests. Some of the must tries are mezzas, stuffed pigeons, fattah, rabbit molokhiya, and bamya. You can visit the other branch of this eating joint at Midan Amman in West Cairo. Don’t forget to taste the famous ‘Umman Ali’ before boarding flights back home.

Koshary Abou Tarek

Koshary Abou Tarek is one of the best restaurants in Cairo. Foodies arriving on flights in this metropolis of Egypt and wanting to taste the famous local dish – Koshary, often visit this place. Located in the city centre, the eating joint is one of the best places where one can taste the finest Koshary in Cairo. The food is really yummy and the price is reasonable. Apart from the eating, tourists enjoy the traditional yet simple atmosphere of this place. You can sit and enjoy your meal. There is a take-away option as well.

Zooba

Travellers taking flights to Cairo would definitely love to taste street food. But people having a concern regarding the cleanliness. Zooba is a perfect destination that provides hygienic and healthy yet mouth watering street food. The place serves authentic Egyptian breakfast and brunch including various types of salads, foul bean soups, taamia, hawawshi, spicy sausage with foul, a variety of yummy pickles, rice pudding, rosemary mango and many more. The best thing in Zooba is they serve the traditional food with a touch of modernity.