Top Holiday Lures For Booking Cheap Flights to Brisbane

Synonymic to vivacity and unparalleled glory, Brisbane is a city to revel in splendid aura. The captivating culture of the city shines amid its utterly cosmopolitan ambience. The spectacular capital of the state of Queensland boasts the year-round warm climate and offers plenty of remarkable attractions for blissful holidays.

With towering skyscrapers, state-of-the-art airport, glitzy hotels and restaurants, chic shopping malls and uber-cool nightclubs, Brisbane is a popular holiday destination among travellers taking cheap flights to Australia. And once here, it is absolutely hard to resist the charm of its entrancing holiday attractions.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, located 8 km south-west of CBD in Fig Tree Pocket, Brisbane, is the oldest and the largest Koala Sanctuary in the world. The fascinating sanctuary is home to over 130 koalas and about 100 species of Australian native animals and makes for an ideal stop for travel buffs hopping on cheap flights to Australia. The sanctuary operates several breeding and research programmes for nurturing the most loved animal of Australia. The place also features barbeque facilities and a picnic spot for visitors on the sanctuary tour.

Newstead House
If you are looking for a place for recapturing the wonderful past of Brisbane, Newstead House, the oldest surviving house in Brisbane, can prove to be a pretty good bet. The grand architecture, spellbinding interiors and the picturesque vistas of flowing Brisbane River all spell sheer bliss. Situated 15 minutes drive by car from CBD, the house has become a reason for hordes of historical aficionados to book air travel to Brisbane.

Mt Coot-tha
The tallest mountain in Brisbane, Mt Cool-tha shows on the itinerary of almost every holidaymaker booking cheap flights to Brisbane. The towering mountain makes for an apt vantage point for feasting the eyes on Brisbane’s skyline including the Moreton Bay and the Glass House Mountains. The soaring mountain boasts the fascinating Botanical Gardens containing Tropical Display Dome, Japanese Garden, Fern House, Exotic Rainforest and Temperate Garden. The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, situated next to the entrance of the gardens, features several entertaining programmes and shows for all ages.

Queensland Cultural Centre
Queensland Cultural Centre is one of the prominent reasons that prompt culture fanatics to book tickets on cheap flights to Brisbane. The sprawling complex of Queensland Cultural Centre is a haven for taking delight in virtuoso performances and beholding the outstanding Australian art works. The Queensland Performing Arts Centre features musical, ballet and opera shows while the Queensland Art Gallery offers the golden opportunity of wallowing in the artworks of eminent painters like Renoir, Picasso, and van Gogh. The Queensland Museum flaunts an eclectic assortment of history specimens and fossils to a World War I German tank.

Alma Park Zoo
A trip to Alma Park Zoo leaves every visitor in awe. The vast range of 229 animals and other astounding 50 species of fauna, the zoo makes for a thrilling place to encounter the exotic animals like lemur, monkeys, baboons, capuchins, snakes, koala, sun bear and much more. The facility of barbeque and lush picnic lawns at the zoo offer perfect environment for joyous day tripping.

Cheap Flights to Melbourne - A Gateway to Blissful Holidays

The cultural and fashion capital of Australia, Melbourne features an ideal blend of sophisticated arts and culture with modern standards of living. The city is known for its jovial nature and welcomes millions of travellers every year with open arms!

Look below to know about the top holiday attractions that entice travellers from all corners to book cheap flights to Melbourne.

Great Ocean Road
Dotted with blissful surf beaches, wonderful whale lookouts, historic ports, overwhelming mountain ranges, lush rainforests and striking national parks, a drive on the Great Ocean Road is a great hit among the travellers booking tickets on cheap flights to Australia. With marvellous views, breathtaking ambience and cool breeze combing the hair, a tour to Great Ocean Road tops the travel itinerary of every traveller coming to the city!

National Gallery of Victoria
Located in St Kilda Road, the National Gallery of Victoria is a great wonder that depicts the rich collection of international art in Melbourne. Being the oldest and largest art gallery in the city, National Gallery of Victoria fascinates the heart of millions to book cheap flights to Melbourne and offers them a fantastic platform to learn about different glorious art forms. Furniture items, artefacts, textiles, ceramics, lithographs, etchings and photographs at the National Gallery of Victoria are fascinating too and make many jaws drop out of surprise!

Melbourne Museum
To dig into the rich culture and splendid history of Melbourne, a trip to the Melbourne Museum acts as an eye opener. The museum is one of the most popular holiday locations in the city and features many remarkable evidences of the past world such as skeletons of extinct animals, Melbourne Story exhibition, Forest Gallery, Mind Exhibition, Discovery Centre and much more. The museum lures millions of family vacationers to plan holidays and book cheap flights to Australia and tempts them to come to this amazing repository of history!

Melbourne Zoo
Opened in the year 1862, Melbourne Zoo is the oldest zoo of Australia and houses over 350 animal species. Enclosed with eye pleasing landscapes and mesmerising gardens, the zoo offers a perfect backdrop to plan a day tour with family and friends. The travellers visiting the zoo get to see an array of animals including gorillas, kangaroos, wombats and koalas and spend some time enjoying the blessings of Mother Nature. Melbourne Zoo elevates the status of Melbourne in the world of tourism and makes it one of the most renowned holiday destinations on the globe.

Old Melbourne Gaol
Old Melbourne Gaol in the city is a great fascination among the travellers planning air travel and booking flights to Melbourne. It is the place where the convicts used to be imprisoned and sentenced to death in Australia. Many of the notorious characters of Australia such as bushranger Ned Kelly and gangster Squizzy Taylor have spent time within the walls of this remarkable precinct! It sure is an interesting place in your travel itinerary of Melbourne.

Dubai hosting peace conference

Dubai is currently helping to promote world harmony by hosting the International Peace Convention.

Dubai is helping to promote discussions on how to bring peace and harmony to the world by playing host to the International Peace Convention.

Delegates from around the world have travelled to the emirate to take part in the conference to discuss how steps can be taken to bring about a greater level of understanding between people of different race and religion.

Taking place on April 14th, the expo features a number of talks and discussions from eminent speakers.

There is also a bazaar which will allow companies and individuals to find products and services which comply with the rules of Halal.

In addition, there is also a kid's corner, which will allow youngsters to interact and take part in activities that will boost their creativity and provide exercise.

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Delhi Airport helps to boost Indian economy

The popularity of Delhi airport has had a big impact on the growth of the Indian economy.

The popularity of Delhi airport with people travelling to the country for business and holidays has helped the terminal to give a boost to the nation's economy.

New statistics from the Indian government have shown the airport alone helped to contribute 0.45 per cent to the country's gross domestic product in the financial year 2009-2010.

The National Council of Applied Economic Research found that the contribution made by the international airport is only likely to increase further between now and 2020.

As well as helping to contribute financially, the airport has also helped to generate 1,578,000 jobs, which contributes to a total of 0.34 per cent of national employment and 25.9 per cent of jobs in Delhi.

Dr Syed Nasim Ahmed Zaidi, secretary for civil aviation, said: "Delhi Airport is ranked first in the country in terms of passenger arrivals and second in terms of freight. It is also ranked as the second best airport worldwide in the 25 to 40 million passengers category."

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More Britons taking overseas holidays

An increase in the number of people from the UK taking overseas holidays has been recorded.

The number of people taking holidays overseas from the UK saw an increase last month after several years of decline.

The Office for National Statistic announced the number of people taking flights overseas increased by 0.8 per cent during February compared with the same month of 2011.

In total, 3.3 million trips abroad were made by British holidaymakers during the month, compared with the 3.2 million departures seen in the same month of the previous year.

Recording even a small increase is significant, as the numbers heading overseas have been stagnant for the past four years.

While people are taking more trips abroad, they are also spending less on their travel, suggesting they are looking for bargains on their flights and accommodation.

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South Africa sees most successful year to date for tourists

South Africa last year saw its most successful season ever for tourists visiting the country.

South Africa has announced a strong increase in the number of people travelling to the country over the past year.

Tourism minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk announced the country saw its best tourist season on record last year as it witnessed over eight million foreign tourists travel to the country.

This figure is 3.3 per cent more than the numbers that headed to the country for the 2010 World Cup.

As a result of hosting the football contest, the minister said the nation received international media exposure that helped the country to establish strong infrastructure.

Mr van Schalkwyk added that the tourism sector refused to become complacent as a result of these changes.

"Instead, we used it as a catalyst to work even harder to sustain that tourism growth, to defend our core tourist markets and to tap into the potential of new tourism markets," he added.

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Flights to Canada – An Ideal Spot for Family Vacationers

With heavenly amusement parks, marvellous natural wonders and amazing museums, Canada is a perfect land to plan a family holiday to. Mother Nature has blessed Canada with some awe-inspiring gifts that stimulate the feeling of love and passion in the hearts of the travellers. A trip to Canada opens a gateway to eternal fun and offers bag full of memories to one and all.

Read below to know about some fantastic flaunts of the country that make hordes of family vacationers book tickets on flights to Canada.

Santa's Village Family Entertainment Park
Situated at two hours drive from the city of Toronto, Santa's Village Family Entertainment Park is one of the best fun places in Canada that comes across as a fairyland where all your wishes come true! The park is beautifully decorated with a stroke of nature and boasts a rich collection of fun activities including thrilling games, breathtaking rides, a pleasant amphitheatre, cruise rides, paddleboats, Santa's train ride and art and craft workshops. Santa's Village Family Entertainment Park makes for an ideal backdrop to recollect vague childhood memories and stays highly popular among families booking flights to Canada!

Canadian National Exhibition
Popularly known as CNE by the Canadians, Canadian National Exhibition is as exciting as riding a high-speed rollercoaster ride! CNE tops the travel itinerary of every traveller booking cheap flights to Canada and floors them with its exhilarating rides, fascinating skill and arcade games, dazzling casino and vivacious nightclub. The mini-Mardi Gras parade and the Toronto Air Show of CNE are also highly popular among the travellers and entice them to book flights to relish memorable Canada holidays.

Museum Of Science and Technology
Located at Ottawa, Museum Of Science and Technology is a great feast for the science enthusiasts planning air travel and booking cheap flights to Canada. It is one of the best places in Canada and offers a wide collection of exhibits related to domestic technology, forestry, energy, graphic arts, marine transportation, land transportation, mining, and physical sciences & space. With over 40,000 artefacts, 60,000 pieces of trade literature and a million or so photographs, Museum Of Science and Technology of Ottawa is perfect to peep into the world of technology from a closer view.

La Ronde
Located in the wonderful city of Montreal, La Ronde is a perfect place for fun seekers. This Six Flags-owned amusement park is extended up to an area of 146 acres and makes millions plan tour to Montreal to visit this wonderland. Being Canada’s second largest amusement Park, La Ronde has become quite popular among locals and travellers alike and features over 40 thrilling rides.

Travellers visiting La Ronde never miss a chance to ride the nine roller coasters, including The Monstre (the highest double wooden roller coaster on the globe) and The Goliath (the biggest and fastest roller coaster of North America). To unwind and have some moments of peace, the travellers may head towards the various in-house cafes and snack bar at the La Ronde amusement park.

Pakistan lifestyle show to take place in Delhi

A lifestyle show of the best things on offer in Pakistan is to take place in Delhi.

Delhi is set to play host to a lifestyle show that will showcase the very best of what is on offer in Pakistan.

Taking place at the Pragati Maidan in the city from April 12th to 15th, it is hoped the event will attract people to the nation and also highlight the huge potential there is to trade with companies in the country.

Around 100 firms from the country are confirmed to attend, including some of the most popular brands and fashion companies.

The showcase was organised by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry and comes after a similar event promoting India was hosted in Lahore.

In addition to seeing the offerings from companies, there will also be displays of some of Pakistan's cultural highlights and a food court selling its most delicious dishes.

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Gulf Film Festival opens in Dubai

The 5th Gulf Film Festival has opened in Dubai, with 155 films set to be shown across the event.

The 5th Gulf Film Festival is taking place in Dubai and film fans will have the choice of 155 new movies across the event.

This year's edition of the event opened in the emirate yesterday (April 10th) and will continue through to April 16th, with filmmakers and actors coming from 40 countries around the world to showcase their latest creations.

Held at Dubai Festival City, a number of other films also being screened at the venue include those by local producers and creations for the international short film contest.

A special selection of children's films from as far afield as Taiwan and Canada has also been put together.

Opened by Sheikh Majid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, chairman of the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, the first night was held to honour Bahraini filmmaker Bassam Al-Thawadi and Iranian actor Behrouz Vossoughi.

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See stunning blooms during Perth Garden Week

A selection of the most stunning gardens in Australia will be showcased during Perth Garden Week.

Some of the most beautiful flowers and gardens to be seen across Australia are to be showcased at Perth Garden Week.

Taking place in the west Australian city from April 19th at the Perry Lakes Reserve, the event will offer a range of ideas on how to create the perfect garden, with celebrity presentations also scheduled to offer tips on getting the best from your blooms.

Stalls will also be set up with international and local brands selling everything from potting plants to gardening tools.

As the event falls during the school half-term celebrations, the organisers encourage people to bring their children along to take part in a number of outdoor activities and get the chance to see some farmyard animals at the petting zoo.

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Chennai is a metropolitan city, says Priya Anand

Actress Priya Anand has spoken about how she always knew she wanted to live in India despite spending most of her life in the US.

Priya Anand has spoken about her love of India and in particular how her fondness for Chennai encouraged her to return.

The actress had spent most of her life living in the US but told the Times of India she would travel back to Chennai to visit her grandparents.

It was during these stays that she realised she wanted to move to the city permanently, stating that the unique selling point of the city in India is the amount of art and culture that is available.

"Chennai is a metropolitan city in its truest sense - though we are aware of western trends, we never let go of our culture," Anand added.

Since returning to live in Chennai in 2008, she has appeared in a number of Tamil language films, including Leader and English Vinglish, which is due to be released later this year.

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Reasons for Rising Demands of Cheap Flights to Melbourne

The city of glorious past, splendid present and certainly brilliant future, Melbourne beats the rest of the world with its outstanding tourist attractions. The city embraces a whole world in itself and lures travellers to plan tour to this amazing holiday destination.

Melbourne Museum is a fascinating spot to learn about the remarkable facts related to Australian history and captivates millions to book tickets for cheap flights to Melbourne. The museum depicts the social history, indigenous civilizations and latest developments made in the country and is a must-visit holiday attraction for those taking cheap flights to Australia.

To relish some time away from the turmoil of the city, the Melbourne Zoo is the perfect place to plan trip to. The zoo is blessed with the showering of the Mother Nature and offers great sights of some remarkable animals including gorillas, kangaroos, wombats and koalas.

For art lovers planning air travel and booking cheap flights to Melbourne, the National Gallery of Victoria is a great feast. The gallery includes some incredible local and international artefacts and is counted among the most popular holiday locations in Melbourne.

National Sports Museum of Melbourne is perfect to know about the achievements of the city in sports and games, and exhibits remarkable artefacts reciting the prestigious moments in Australia’s sporting history. The museum is a dream of every sport enthusiast and tempts hordes of holiday makers to book cheap flights to Australia and land up in Melbourne.

With such marvellous attractions, it comes as no surprise that Melbourne tops the travel itinerary of millions and makes them crave to book flights to this amazing destination!

Worldhotels to Develop 10 Properties by 2013 in India

Offering more hotel options for luxury seekers taking flights to India, Worldhotels announced plans to develop 10 hotels in India by the next year. The hotels will be developed under 'Worldhotel' brand.

When it rains, it pours. This is what seems to be happening as yet another hospitality firm looks towards India to further their growth agenda.

Worldhotels announced that it plans to develop 10 hotels in India by 2013, offering increased options for business and leisure travellers taking flights to India apart from domestic travellers.

"We are looking at expanding our portfolio in India and are planning to develop 10 hotels by next year," Naresh Chandnani, Worldhotels Regional Director Business Development, Indian Subcontinent & Maldives, was quoted in India's leading financial daily.

These hotels will be developed under ‘Worldhotel' brand as part of the firm's newly launched brand license program throughout the world.

While these hotels may not appeal very highly to budget travellers taking tickets on cheap flights to India, they will surely tempt those who prefer luxury.

"In India, our focus will be mainly to expand in the branded hotels," Naresh Chandnani said.

At present, the firm provides its services to 10 hotel properties in India, including two Claridges hotels in Delhi and NCR, the Sahara Star in Mumbai and Aamby Valley in Pune. From all 10 properties, 4-5 are branded and the rest are affiliations, with a 50:50 mix of five star and four star properties.

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Grab Flights to Bangkok & Stay at Rewarding Riverside Hotels

Venice of the East, Bangkok dazzles with its awe-inspiring set of attractions. The glorious radiance of cultural magnificence and the contemporary lures of towering magnitude make Bangkok a must visit place for tourists!

A torrent of leisure holiday makers book flights to Bangkok to experience the chaotic charm of this Thai city. And Bangkok Riverside is perhaps the best place to do so! Pulsating with effervescence, the shores of Chao Phraya River features some of the most popular hotels in Bangkok, Thailand.

Peninsula Hotel Bangkok
Peninsula Hotel Bangkok is one of the finest riverside hotels in the city. The hotel offers 370 guest rooms and suites, each of which is replete with the most modern of luxuries and amenities. Each guestroom also allows the tourists to enjoy the incredible and all encompassing views of the Chao Phraya River and the city skyline. The hotel’s amenities and services include luxurious toiletries, bathrobe and slippers, wireless internet, mini bar, private safe, CD player and daily newspapers. Not surprisingly, many luxury seekers who are on a Bangkok trip make this hotel their place of stay!

Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok
The Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok is a lavish property that stands on the banks of the famous Chao Phraya River. Be it business travellers or leisure vacationers, Shangri-La Hotel is the perfect option for all sorts of tourists who book flight tickets to Bangkok. This riverside hotel in Bangkok boasts facilities like health club and swimming pools. It is also popular among the foreign tourists for organising cruise tours on private riverboat.

Mandarin Oriental
If not the best, Mandarin Oriental is surely one of the best hotels on the planet! It sure is no exaggeration as any seasoned travel enthusiast would let you know! A hugely alluring property, this grand hotel entices many a great hedonists and lets them have a time of their lives. No wonder, most of the elitist who book flights to Thailand are more often than not found in one of the beautiful guest rooms and suites of this property. Mandarin Oriental’s architectural splendour is second to none and resonates with magnificence of unparallel quotient! The hotel is located within a convenient distance from the city airport.

P & R Residence Hotel
The most pocket friendly of hotels in this list, P & R Residence Hotel charms tourists with its simplicity and beauty! A good number of tourists who book cheap flights to Bangkok and look for an affordable riverside stay in Bangkok opt for P & R Residence Hotel. Accessibility to major city lures is yet another highlight of this hotel.

Millennium Hilton Bangkok
Millennium Hilton Bangkok is a contrast! It is a contrast of stunning display of gaudy modernism and the lush surrounding of vibrant verdure. Millennium Hilton Bangkok has won multiple awards, confirming the hotel’s supremacy over others. But what really sets this riverside hotel apart is the easy access to animated streets of Bangkok! Tourists on a Bangkok tour can take a short ride from the hotel to city’s most remarkable attractions, such as the Wat Pho, the Grand Palace and the Wat Arun.

Delhi sees hottest day of the year

Delhi has recorded the hottest day of the year so far as it reached temperatures of over 39 degrees C.

The temperature in Delhi has reached its highest point of the year so far as the city moves through its summer season.

The mercury in the city peaked at 39.7 degrees C in the Palam area of the city on April 3rd.

Overall, the city has been experiencing temperatures at five degrees C higher than average, with the minimum temperature standing at 24 degrees, the Indian Meteorological Department announced.

It comes as part of a heatwave for the city, as the temperature has been around the 38 degree mark for the past two days.

Although it was hot, the level of humidity was reported to be more manageable, as it was between 30 and 66 per cent.

It has been predicted it is likely to stay this hot for the coming days, although it will be cloudy, which may provide some respite to those in the city.

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Easter events planned for Johannesburg

A day of special events to celebrate Easter is to take place in Nelson Mandela Square in Johannesburg.

Easter weekend is set to be celebrated in style in Johannesburg with a series of events to be hosted at Nelson Mandela Square.

Taking place on Monday April 8th, the event will see a number of impressive musical performers taking to the stage as part of a string of concerts.

The highlight of the event will be an African-inspired performance of Frederick Handel's Messiah, while conductor Richard Cock will lead the Johannesburg Festival Orchestra in their performances.

A number of other talented soloists and choirs will perform on the day, with the first acts to take to the stage at 15:00 local time.

As the event is free, it is ideal for both devoted fans of classic music to those who simply want to dip in to hear some of the performances and sample the food on offer in the restaurants around the square.

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Expansion Continues in India as Swiss International Makes A Foray

Switzerland-based brand, Swiss International Hotels & Resorts announced on Tuesday its plans to launch 45 hotels in the different star categories across India. The group hopes to cater both leisure and business travellers taking flights to India.

Hospitality industry continues to expand in India as the Switzerland-based Swiss International announced Tuesday that it is planning to open up 45 hotels in the country by 2017.

The 30-year-old Swiss hospitality brand aims to set up 50 hotels in the 3 star, 4 star and 5 star categories across India and South Asia. Some 6,000 hotel rooms will be added. The move is sure to delight holiday makers booking flights to India with added choices.

Swiss International Hotels & Resorts would be a 4/5 star, luxury brand with about 200 rooms, restaurants and other conveniences.

Spirit Hotel will be a 3 star, midscale hotel touted as affordable luxury. It will cater to budget travellers taking relatively cheap flights to India.

"We are looking at 50 hotels across India and south Asia. Of this, around 40-45 hotels will be in India and for the rest we are looking at countries like Sri Lanka, Maldives, Nepal Pakistan, Bangladesh and Bhutan. Overall, we are looking at 6,000 rooms in three, four and five star categories," Swiss International Hotels and Resorts, South Asia, Chairman and Managing Director Anupam Narayan was quoted in news reports.

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Big name stars set for the IPL opening ceremony

Big names from the world for music and Bollywood are set to attend the opening of the Indian Premier League in Chennai.

Some of the biggest names from the world of music and Bollywood movie stars are all set to attend the opening ceremony for the latest series of the Indian Premier League cricket.

Taking place in Chennai, the opening event is set to be a star-studded event, with Katy Perry announced as the main performer.

The singer will showcase a number of her biggest hits and has already spoken of her excitement of performing for India for the first time.

"I know that everyone in India has waited for a very long time for me to come and perform professionally. I've enjoyed India on my own time personally and now it's time to give back to the fans," Perry said.

The event will also see appearances by Priyanka Chopra and actor Salman Khan, with the whole evening to be overseen by superstar Amitabh Bachchan.

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Sea gypsy museum to open in Phuket

A museum dedicated to the sea gypsies of Phuket is set to open on the island.

A museum dedicated to the life and culture of the sea gypsies living in Phuket is set to open in the city.

Located on the island of Koh Sireh and easily accessible from Phuket, the centre is due to open before the arrival of the next high season for visitors.

To date, a number of buildings which will be used to house the exhibits have already been constructed on the island and have been crafted to resemble upturned boats.

The gypsies are the Urak Lawoi people and comprise of around 6,000 aboriginal Malays who live in a number of locations along the coast of western Thailand who speak a form of Malay mixed with Thai.

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Thai AirAsia announces new routes from Bangkok

A range of new routes from Thai AirAisa are to depart from Bangkok Airport from the summer onwards.

A range of new flights with Thai AirAsia are to start departing from Bangkok Airport to other locations across Asia.

The carrier will have five flights a week from the Bangkok terminal to Chennai, which comes in addition to the daily flights that it already operates.

Tassapon Bijleveld, chief executive officer of Thai AirAsia,also announced the group will be commencing journeys between several other locations in China and India.

Commenting on the news, Mr Bijleveld said: "By linking Bangkok to a new and unique destination such as Chongqing, we are hoping to stimulate investment between the two cities while bringing new exciting travel experiences to the people of both places."

The route to Chongquing will be the first time that the airline has flown between the Thai capital and the Chinese city.

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Kerong Chok to perform in Bangkok

Talented jazz pianist Kerong Chok is to perform a concert in Bangkok later this month.

Kerong Chok is to give a concert showcasing his musical talents in Bangkok this month as part of a jazz group from the US.

The talent jazz pianist is to take to the stage at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Hotel as part of the Shawn Kelley Trio from April 3rd to April 29th 2012.

The performances in the Living Room venue in the hotel will begin each evening at 21:30 local time.

Born and raised in Singapore, Chok started to play the piano at the age of four and became a professional musician at 18.

He has since travelled across Singapore and to the US, where he has given concerts showcasing his versatile abilities in playing jazz, RnB and rock music.

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First movies announced for Sydney Film Festival

The first films to be on the line up for Sydney Film Festival have been announced.

Sydney Film Festival has announced the first of the movies that will be shown during this year's event.

Cinema fans can now plan to see a number of award-winning titles, including Beasts of the Southern Wild, which took US Dramatic Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival and Tabu, which scooped the Fipresci prize at Berlin Film Festival

A total of 25 films have been announced by the organisers of the event, which is to take place in the city between June 6th and 16th.

Nashen Moodley festival director for Sydney Film Festival, said: "This is just a cross-section and a taste of what we have in store, but you'll already see the extraordinary diversity in subject, style and geography that makes a great international film festival."

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Indian Premier League Cricket to begin

The exciting Indian Premier League Cricket season is set to begin in the coming days.

The most exciting event in Indian cricket is set to begin next month with the return of the Premier League season.

Cricket is one of the most popular sports in India and the start of the new season on April 4th will see fans packing in to the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai to see local team the Chennai Super Kings take on the Mumbai Indians.

The team is likely to be one of the hot favourites to win this tournament, as the Super Kings have won for the past two years, beating the Royal Challengers Bangalore into second place during 2011.

Games will be played between the nation's biggest clubs through to May 20th, with the final taking place on May 27th at the venue in Chennai.

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Dubai Airport dramatically reduces carbon emissions

Dubai Airport has taken steps to dramatically cut down the amount of carbon that is emitted in its daily operations.

Dubai Airport has announced it has seen success in its efforts to reduce the amount of carbon that it emits each year.

The international airport has revealed it saw its carbon emissions fall by 72,793 tonnes in 2011, as well as saving 131.9 million gallons of water compared with the previous year.

The terminal also cut down on the amount of fuel it uses, which saw a total saving of 15.9 million United Arab Emirates dirhams (£2.7 million).

"We take our environmental responsibility very seriously and as we step up efforts to limit our footprint, it's becoming increasingly clear that green business is good business," said Dubai Airports chief executive officer Paul Griffiths.

He added that the airport's goal is to make the facility as clean and sustainable as possible in the future.

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Dubai poised to begin Dragon Boat festival

The annual Dragon Boat festival is set to take place at the Festival Marina Dubai.

The countdown to the start of the annual Dragon Boat Festival in Dubai has begun, with competitors from across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) poised to take part.

Held at the Festival Marina Dubai, the two-day race meet is now in its fifth year and is promising another weekend of fun and action.

Taking place between April 6th and 7th, the event will see a number of amateur teams and community groups competing, as well as some of the region's leading crews, including the Steelcraft Dragons.

"We are looking forward to welcoming back the UAE Dragon Boating competitors to Festival Marina for what promises to be a fun-filled weekend, with activities both on and off the water," said Bernice Boshoff, general manager of Festival Centre.

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British travellers looking for 'healthy holidays'

Brits are planning to do more than simply lie on the beach when they head overseas.

Getting into shape or learning a new skill is now more important to travellers than spending time lying on the beach, a survey has shown.

The Body Holiday study carried out by Health and Fitness Travel found that 94 per cent of British holidaymakers will pursue health and fitness during their trip.

In addition, 85 per cent of Brits are willing to go on a health and wellbeing trip, while they may have not done so in the past.

Paul Joseph, co-founder of the company behind the research, said people now want to return from holidays full of energy and looking good.

"A health and fitness holiday can be a great way to reset the body, learn a new approach and develop good habits to bring home," Mr Joseph added.

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Mumbai to commemorate World Theatre Day

Students at Mumbai University are to mark World Theatre Day on March 28th.

The students of Mumbai University have been marking World Theatre Day by putting on a performance of Khalid ki Khala.

Young people studying at the Academy of Theatre Arts at the institution are putting on the show today (March 28th 2012) and have been involved in all aspects of getting the story to the stage.

Members of the public are able to attend and the doors open at 19:15 local time.

"The annual event of staging a classic play is part of the curriculum for our students and is also aimed to commemorate World Theatre Day observed globally on March 27th," explained Waman Kendre, director of the institution's theatre school.

This performance of the classic Indian play comes a day after National Theatre Day itself, which was observed with a number of events around the world.

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Economic difficulties 'do not stop people from going on holiday'

Even in the face of economic difficulties, people are still likely to want to spend time overseas relaxing.

The ongoing economic crisis is not something that will deter people from spending time overseas on holiday as they still want to spend time relaxing with their loved ones.

While the economic downturn has had an effect on what people choose to spend their money on, life doctor John Rushton explained most consumers are still placing priority on taking a trip abroad.

"People like holidaying, it's what they do - it's a chance to get away and it takes them away from their everyday environment - even if the holiday rains every day," Mr Rushton said.

He added the desire to get away comes from people simply wanting to spend the moment with their partner, friends, or even on their own in order to just get away.

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Cape Town Opera on tour around South Africa

People in a number of cities around South Africa will have the chance to see a stunning performance from the Cape Town Opera.

People around South Africa will have the chance to see the stunning Cape Town Opera performing in their home town as the group is set to go on tour.

The company will spend three weeks travelling to destinations around the country in order to help those who are planning to compete in the South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod.

There will be performances of Leonard Bernstein's Trouble in Tahiti, which tells the story of the end of a marriage in suburban America during the early 1950s.

Each of the evenings will begin with a session discussing the life and work of Bernstein, before the start of the one-act opera.

The group will be making visits to locations including Johannesburg, Durban and East London during their trip, which will continue through to April 4th.

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Tourists Taking Flights to India to Have More Luxury Hotel Choices

Travellers taking flights to India will have more luxury hotel options available to them in top tourist cities of Delhi and Goa. Lebua Hotels & Resorts, a luxury hotel chain is refurbishing a property in Delhi and setting up a new hotel in Goa.

Business travellers and holiday tour makers booking flights to India and landing up in Delhi or Goa would soon have another alternative as far as luxury accommodation is concerned.

Lebua Hotels & Resorts, a luxury hotel chain, has decided to expand its presence in India after opening its first property in the country in Delhi. The Thai hospitality group is now planning to establish a 14-room, 40-villa property in Goa, another top holiday destination that beguiles many fun seekers to book airlines tickets to India.

The property is most likely to open its doors to guests in May 2013. Reportedly, the group is also scouting for land to build its third property in India, which is expected to come up in Cochin, yet another major travel destination in southern part of India.

The group's Delhi property is partially operational with some refurbishment still remaining. The hotel will be formally launched in September, along with restaurants Sirocco II and Breeze II. If company's claims are to believed then Lebua Delhi's Indian restaurant would be the world's most expensive Indian eatery – something that really wouldn't excite budget travellers taking cheap flights to India much. The restaurant will have Michelin-starred chefs as consultants, says the report published in an Indian financial daily.

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Flights to Casablanca - beaches in Casablanca

Find the best deals on cheap flights to Casablanca from United Kingdom.

The Casablanca is an excellent mix of French, Arabic and Spanish culture. The Casablanca city is pride on its grand royal architecture, unique attractions and fabulous sights in the city. It is a gorgeous location to splurge a holiday. This multi ethnic environment pulls loads of tourists to take the flights to Casablanca to unearth the mystic charm of the Casablanca city. The tourist accommodation facilities are also abundant and reliable in city.

The beach tours are very much liked. If you also like to enjoy slightly a beach vacation, then the springtime is the best take the flights to Casablanca.


The Ain Diab Beach

The exact position of the city is on the banks of Atlantic side of the ocean. The Ain Diab is the chief beach located in Casablanca and welcomes the more international tourists through the cheap flights to Casablanca. Just a little journey from the city center.



The Bouznika Beach

There are some other beaches within limit of city counting Bouznika that is located between Casablanca and neighboring city, Rabat. Distinct from the Ain Diab, the beach still preserves some of its Moroccan allure and draws many tourists identically through the cheap flights to Casablanca. the Bouznika beach is best for surfing and swimming activities.

The Agadir Beach

The tourist destination as it is nestled in a curved shaped bay that is privileged by surrounding hills and bears over 300 sunny days a year. The Agadir Beach is enjoyable during winter. Taking the flights to Casablanca and spending the vacations involve the several activities and water sports including water skiing, swimming, sailing, surfing, and windsurfing.

Mumbai – The Land of Glorious Victorian Marvels in India

The City of Dreams, Mumbai is a mesmerizing gateway to witness the most astonishing edifices built with a stroke of Victorian architecture. Flaunting a blend of simplicity and dignity, the Victorian architectural attractions in the city are considered as stupendous epitome of great Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in India.

Unsurprisingly hordes of Victorian architecture enthusiasts spend money on tickets for flights to India to explore the magnificent exemplars of ancient architectural marvels of Mumbai. Though, there is no dearth of splendid edifices in the city, architectural attractions like Gateway of India, Bombay VT and High Court pack in everything to bewitch the onlookers.

The High Court
Located in the Fort area of Mumbai, the Bombay High Court is one of the most significant Victorian marvels that remains on top of the itineraries of scores of travellers booking Mumbai tickets on cheap flights to India. The court was established in 1871 and took over seven years to get complete. Designed by a British engineer Col. J.A. Fuller, the Bombay High Court is 562 feet in length and 189 feet in width and flaunts amazing Gothic architectural designs. The crown of the Bombay High Court building has been decorated with the awe-inspiring statues representing justice and mercy.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
Renowned with the name of Victoria Terminus, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is a perfect example of the great Victorian architecture in India. The dreamlike architecture of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus breathes of a blend of Venetian Gothic style and customary Indian style of architecture. Being a significant railway station, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus links the city through the Mumbai suburban railway and other long distance routes across India. The station is the headquarters of the Central Railway, India, and flaunts the image of real Mumbai. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is a living model of the 19th Century railway architectural marvel and thus was nominated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in the year 2004.

Mumbai University
Previously called University of Bombay, the Mumbai University is one of the most remarkable and oldest buildings that tempt hordes of Britons to book cheap flights to India and plan holiday tour to Mumbai. Beautifying the outlook of the city, the Mumbai University has been rewarded with the five-star rank by National Accreditation and Assessment Council. The ancient Victorian architecture of the Mumbai University makes it stand out of all other edifices in the city and entices millions of architect lovers from all over the world to spend money on buying cheap airline tickets to India to relish incredible holiday breaks.

Rajabai Tower
Located just next to the High Court, Rajabai Tower is a magnificent clock tower in South Mumbai. Designed by an English architect Sir Gilbert Scott, Rajabai Tower has become a landmark attraction in Mumbai and tops the travel itinerary of every traveller on holiday tour to India. Rajabai Tower is a melting pot of Venetian and Gothic styles of architecture and raises up to a height of 85 meters. Rajabai Tower is also home to the library of the University beautified with wonderful stained glass windows.

Connection from Britain to Mumbai
UK is home to a number of significant airports that host airlines operating daily direct and indirect flights to Mumbai. However, London Heathrow is the busiest of all and tops the list of many Britons when it comes to travelling to any part of the world, counting India. The airport undoubtedly provides most convenient and modern day facilities and has become an epitome of lavishness and flamboyant opulence. Though numerous carriers operate flights from Heathrow to India, British Airways, or the popular Indian carriers such as Air India, Jet Airways, or Kingfisher are the most preferred choices of Britons.

Most of the Victorian architecture enthusiasts hopping on flights to India choose to land at Mumbai airport, a gateway to the vivacious and breathtaking Victorian era edifices. Ranked third for its ultra-modern services by the Airport Council International's (ACI's) airport service quality awards, Mumbai airport is one of the most popular gateways to India and links to all the major domestic cities as well as destinations across the world.

Over 50s 'look for physically and mentally challenging holidays'

Travellers over the age of 50 are looking to take trips which will challenge the body and mind.

Travellers over the age of 50 are becoming increasingly adventurous with the types of holiday they take.

Sarah Woods, a freelance travel author and travel presenter on ITV1’s Alan Titchmarsh Show, said there is a big trend for people in this age group taking adventure holidays as this generation is 'younger' than those before them.

They also appreciate how enjoyable it can be to challenge themselves both mentally and physically.

"More 50-plus travellers than ever before are taking extended breaks now, such as gap years and backpacking trips to destinations that are off the beaten track," Ms Wood said.

She added that there are now more travel insurance policies for people of this age, which is opening up a range of new sports and experiences to older travellers.

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Exhibition to mark Titanic centenary in Sydney

An exhibition of artefacts from the Titanic are to go on display in Sydney.

The centenary of the sinking of the Titanic is to be marked in Sydney later this month with a dedicated exhibition.

The Australian National Maritime Museum in Darling Harbour is to host Remembering Titanic, which will open on March 29th.

National Maritime Museum communications manager Shirani Aththas explained the exhibition would tell some of the lesser-known stories from the fateful voyage.

"We tell the stories of many people - from the junior wireless operator, Harold Sydney Bride, through to the passengers on board, including two little boys known as the Titanic orphans."

As well as displaying artefacts from the ship, the showcase will also look at the impact the event had on popular culture and will feature costumes from the 1997 Titanic film, staring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet.

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Bangkok ArtAids show raises funds for charity

An art exhibition is being held which will showcase a range of impressive works and raise money for charity.

A selection of works of art has gone on display in Bangkok to raise money for charity.

The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre is hosting the You Are Not Alone art show, which aims to raise awareness of people living with HIV and Aids.

Artists from across Thailand and around the world are showing their works, which highlight how many people have negative perceptions of those who have been diagnosed with the condition.

Run in association with the ArtAids Foundation, the showcase opened earlier this month and will stay open until May 20th.

The exhibition is free to visit and is open from 10:00 to 21:00 local time each day, except when the gallery is closed on the Monday.

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New gallery and opera house planned for Dubai

A pair of new attractions are soon to open their doors in Dubai.

A new art museum and opera house are being planned for Dubai, it has been announced.

His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice-president of the United Arab Emirates and Prime Minister of Dubai, stated that work was to begin on the Dubai Modern Art Museum and Opera House District.

The centre is being constructed with the view of making Dubai the cultural hub of the region and will boost the 50 plus art galleries that are already found there.

"Having demonstrated our credentials in hosting world-class cultural events, UAE has established itself as a thriving destination for culture and the arts," Sheik Mohammed said.

He added that it is hoped the site will help to encourage local artists and foster international interest.

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Travel ‘can be a great way to boost the CV’

Spending some time overseas can be a good way to enhance your CV.

Spending time in a foreign country has been advocated as a great way for people to give their CVs a boost.

Stuart Rees Jones, founder and chief executive officer of Camps International, explained that for young people looking for work, having something on their CV which makes them stand out can give them edge.

He explained many employers will look favourably on those who have travelled abroad as it will have given them a range of different experiences.

Planning ways to raise the funds for the trip can also teach essential life skills.

“Stepping out of your comfort zone is an important factor in growing up and living and working in a community away from home is a fantastic experience,” Mr Jones Rees Jones said.

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Experience Navratri in Delhi this September

The Navratri festival is a great time to visit Delhi's Kalka Devi temple.

Holidaymakers in search of more spiritual adventures than a week of sitting by the pool will often book flights to Delhi so they can discover the mystery of the Indian subcontinent.

The country has a rich past and is replete with culture, no where more so than at the Kalka Devi temple near Delhi's Nehru Place.

One of the oldest temples in the region, the site demands a visit at any time, and attracts more than a million pilgrims from across India a year. The Kalka Devi itself is believed to be over 3,000 years old.

But if you're lucky enough to be there during the autumn, then you simply must visit the temple during the Hindu Festival of Navratri.

For nine days in October (this year the festival runs from October 16th to 24th), the temple is transformed into a giant fair and there will be plenty of decorations as well.

Reference

Take Cheap Flights to Nairobi to Explore Incredible Wildlife

When it comes to Kenya holidays, Nairobi is one city that certainly tops the travel itineraries of one and all. This vibrant Kenyan capital is indeed a wonderful place for the tourists to explore as it is inundated with an incredible tapestry of awe-inspiring charms.

Enchantingly compulsive and definitely inescapable, Nairobi is the most compelling gateway to different wildlife reserves of Kenya, such that quite a few travellers book cheap flights to Kenya and flock to explore the incredible wildlife in Nairobi.

Nairobi seamlessly summons awing images of exciting melodramatic jungle safaris, aboriginal forest, savannah, and wetland landscapes. Unsurprisingly, with scores and scores of exotic safari options, this safari capital of the world immensely adds to the popularity of cheap flights to Kenya. Check out some of the famous wildlife reserves and parks for an unthinkable but perfect safari holidays that invariably makes up for the cost of air tickets on cheap flights to Nairobi.

The Masai Mara National Reserve
The Masai Mara is one of the most popular reserves in Africa. A launch-pad for a heart-thudding wildlife holidays, the Masai Mara Reserve offers a rare chance to encounter the amazing wildebeest migration, the density of game, a wide variety of birdlife and the amazing hot air balloon ride. Those flocking here can watch zebra, impala, giraffe, leopards, lions, hyenas, cheetah, jackal and bat-eared foxes, wandering around in their natural habitat.

Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park remains the principal attraction for those catching cheap flights to Nairobi. One of the oldest of national parks and game reserves in Kenya, Nairobi National Park abounds an amazing array of flora and fauna. Visitors can treat themselves to the sights of rare and exotic species like black rhinoceros, diverse birdlife, lion, leopard, hyena, cheetah, eland, buffalo, zebra and wildebeest. Ivory Burning Site Monument, walking trails at hippo pools, Nairobi Safari Walk and the Orphanage and spacious picnic sites add to the popularity of this park.

Samburu, Shaba and Buffalo Springs National Reserves
Samburu, Shaba and Buffalo Springs are 3 wonderful game reserves bordering one another. The forests along the river banks are home to many birds, including local species such as the Palm Nut Vulture and the Vinaceous Dove. These forests are also home to many Leopards, often seen at dusk. The sight of one of these beautiful and elusive creatures is always a rare treat. The famous camel safaris in Nairobi lure millions ever year.

Tsavo National Parks
Tsavo National Park is an enormous tract of panoramic and wild landscape. Those taking Nairobi flights can watch elephants bathe among the hippos and the crocs from a unique vantage point of an under-water glass tank. The park is home to the incredible "Big Five", however, one needs to be extra careful to spot them.

Mount Kenya National Park
Mount Kenya is Africa's second highest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This amazing reserve, dotted with spectacular lakes, mineral springs and forests, is home to rare and exotic animal species as well as spectacular lakes, mineral springs and forests. Over the years, Mount Kenya has become a significant landmark of the country.

Flights to Marrakech - Marrakech Transport

With the new low budget cheap flights to Marrakech from United Kingdom.


Menara airport to city centre

The airport is 4 km away from the Marrakech city centre. There is a bus service every half hour, however the best way to travel from the airport is by petit taxi, the cost around 20dh. Grands Taxis have a flat rate of 60dh from the airport to Djemaa el Fna and they can carry up to 6 people.

Marrakech Train

The train station is located at the edge of Gueliz in Marrakech city, the new city, and the best way to get from there to the centre is by petit taxi. There is also a bus service linking from the station with Place Foucauld next to the square of the Djemaa el Fna.


Marrakech Coach

The coach companies and they all stop at the gare routiere outside at old city’s walls near the Bab Doukkala for the exception of CTM and Supratour coaches that stop outside their offices in the new city and near the train station respectively.

Grands Taxis

The Grands Taxis arrives and departs from the Bab Doukkala.
They can carry upto 6 people and their prices are set prices intended per trip and not per person.

Petits Taxis

Petits taxis are metre operated and can take upto 3 people. They are available all over in Marrakech and can be stopped on the street. Make sure you insist on having the metre on or agree on a set fee for a said journey.


Horse-drawn carriages

Horse-drawn carriages go from Place the De Foucauld and are a nice way to visit the Marrakech city. They can take upto 5 persons and cost roughly the same as petits taxis.

Flights to Casablanca - Budget Prices

Casablanca lies, North Africa facing the Atlantic Ocean. This cosmopolitan city blends the customs of the orient with the open ways of the Western world and is amongst the most fascinating cities to explore. With the wide range of packages and cheap flights to Casablanca you can find nowadays, Casablanca city offers tourists fascinating cultural, natural spots and sparkling nightlife as well as an extensive choice of dining options.

All flights arrive at the Mohammed V Intl Airport situated 30 km from the city center. The airport is currently undergoing a major expansion and will soon be offering topnotch facilities for the tourist and increased chances to find cheap flights to Casablanca.

Casablanca is no doubt Morocco's commercial capital, where Arab customs and western modern trends offers kaleidoscope of contrasts within the walls of Casablanca city that essentially revolves around commerce and trade.

Casablanca city offers international and delicious Middle Eastern cuisine, downtown Casablanca being the best area in which to find a good restaurant. You may also try the cheap restaurant, where tourists can get a typical dish for only a few dollars.

With cheap flight to Casablanca tourists can also find cheap accommodations. Hotels range from luxury to lower in budget, whose prices vary considerably according to the rating of hotels.

Flights to Marrakech - Marrakech things

There is no end to things to see in Marrakech. Visitors may take cheap flights to Marrakech from United Kingdom.


Djemaa el Fna square hotel in Marrakech

When visiting to Marrakech the first place to go to after checking into your hotel is certainly Djemaa el Fna square, nothing in the Morocco compares to this lively open-air circus with snake charmers, storytellers, jugglers and street artists of every type. In the evening the square becomes the gathering point of musicians playing all type of instruments. The markets, which are called souks, are another focal point in Marrakech.


The El Badi Palace in Marrakech

The El Badi Palace is a splendid palace built by Ahmad al-Mansur in 1578. Originally the palace had three hundred and fifty rooms lavishly decorated with gold, ivory, cedar wood and semi-precious stones.


The Kutubiya Mosque in Marrakech

The Marrakesh is famous for several tourists spots.The Kutubiya Mosque reknowned for its collection of manuscripts, books and libraries. In the local language, the Kutubiya means booksellers, which very much explain the inspiration behind this name.

During his reign, book reading and printing was encouraged. It mosque is the result of his encouragement. Visitors can see more than one hundred book shops on the street of this mosque. Some of them are belong to ancient historical times.

The mosque features 17 aisles, which are extended till the Qibla wall in the mosque. There are two mosques of the Kutubiya. The earlier one is smaller than the later one. The second Kutubiya mosque became the status symbol of the Morocco city.


The Saadian Tombs in Marrakesh

Marrakesh city holds a number of historical attractions for visitors. The Saadian Tombs are famous for the fine carvings on them. These tombswere discovered in 1917, however, the tombs date back to the period 1578 to 1603, when sultan Ahmad- Al- Mansor ruled in Marrakesh city. The tombs are enclosed in a beautifully structured mausoleum.

Visitors can see the tomb of the ruler of the Marrakesh city, Ahmad- Al- Mansor.This tomb is surrounded by the tombs of his family. The stele around the tombs is made up of finely carved stucco and cedar wood.

The stone used in graves is of the Italian Carrara type marble. Visitors can see the astonishing design on tombs, which exhibit the artistic facet of Islamic culture.

Flights to Marrakech - Marrakech city and Marrakech Museum

Book flights to Marrakech on cheapest airfares from United Kingdom.

The Marrakech city

Marrakech, also known as Marrakesh, is one of the imperial cities of the Morocco. The name of Marrakech originates from the Amazigh words mur akush, which means "Land of the God." It is the third largest city in Morocco after Casablanca and Rabat, and lies near the foothills of the snow capped Atlas Mountains and a few hours away from the foot of the Sahara Desert.

The Marrakech Museum

The Marrakech Museum is housed in a magnificent late-nineteenth century palace, Dar Mnebbi, on the west side of Place de la Kissaria.

This palace was originally built by Mehdi Mnebbi, Moroccan ambassador to London. It was then bought by T’Hami el Glaoui, it is famous Pasha of the Marrakech during the French protectorate, it houses today both traditional and contemporary exhibitions of Moroccan arts and sculpture.

El Badi Palace in Marrakech

The El Badi Palace is famous palace in Marrakech, south of Djemaa el Fna. Its name “El Badi” literally means. The Incomparable – in comparable in its luxury and grandeur and reputed as it is one of the most beautiful palaces in the world.

It is built by Ahmed Al Mansour, the Palace did not escape the plundering hand of Sultan Moulay Ismail who spent more years stripping the palace of everything moveable.

Although it stands today substantially in ruins, enough remains of the El Badi to suggest it is former grandeur. Its size of pool and sunken gardens give an impression of its incomparable scale and the traces of tile and plaster evoke a dazzling and exhaustive decoration.

The Bahia Palace in Marrakech

The Bahia Palace, the - Brilliant, is the perfect antidote to the simplicity of nearby the Al Badi Palace.

Originally built in 1867 by Si Moussa, a grand vizier of Moulay Hassan, it was enlarged by his son Bou Ahmed, who added the mosque, hammam and garden.

The Bahia Palace was recently restored to this former glory and splendour, although some work is still yet to be carried out.

You enter the Palace through an arcade courtyard that leads to a small riad, beautifully decorated in cedarwood and carved stucco. There are three adjoining salons leading through elaborate reception halls, pleasure gardens, living quarters and numerous secluded courtyards.

You can only visit part of Palace in the Marrakech, as some of it is still used by the royal family. You can visit sleeping quarters and various courtyards set aside for his wives and different concubines.


Gardens in Marrakech

With the hustle and bustle of the souks of the Medina, and the afternoon heat reaching temperatures of 38 C, at least part in Marrakech should be devoted to total inactivity. The good place to get a cool and peaceful break is in one of the many gardens in the Marrakech city.

The main gardens in Marrakech are the Agdal and the Menara, stretching through acres of the orchards and the olive groves with an immense pool of water. Other smaller gardens include Majorelle, gardens of the famed Mamounia Hotel and palmery.

These gardens, at the edge of the Medina, you will want to hire a petit taxi or a horse-drawn carriage. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or charter a grand taxi for the day.

Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech

Majorelle Garden is a small, meticulously planned botanical garden just off the Avenue Yacob al Mansour. The garden bears the name of its creator in the 1920s, French painter Jacques Majorelle.

Majorelle is maintained by fashion designer Yves Saint Lauren. It conveys both tranquillity and strong colour. The keynote colour on buildings, a vivid cobalt blue, offsets multicoloured bougainvillea, pink geranium and orange nasturtiums. Bulbs sing in bamboo thickets and flit among the leaves of date palms.

India Aviation 2012 to begin in Hyderabad

The India Aviation 2012 event is set to begin in Hyderabad to showcase the nation as a leader in aeroplane technology.

The India Aviation 2012 event is set to begin in Hyderabad on March 14th and will showcase the country as being one of great innovation.

Ajit Singh, the Union Minister of Civil Aviation, will inaugurate the event and it is hoped that it will build on the success of the previous two editions of the bi-annual event taking place in 2008 and 2010.

Under the theme of India: The Emerging Aviation Hub, the event will see a number of important landmarks for Indian aviation, including the first time the Boeing 787 Dreamliner will be put on display in the country.

People interested in the aircraft who are not able to attend can still get involved with the festivities as a special stamp is being released on the first day of the festival to commemorate it.

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Phuket to host Bliss Beach Ball

Phuket is set to host an evening of partying and charity with the arrival of its annual Bliss Beach Ball.

A night on the town that can also help to raise money for charity is set to take place in Phuket next month.

The Bliss Beach Ball will be held at the Bliss Beach Club on Bang Tao on April 27th, with guests able to enjoy an evening filled with great food, cocktails, music and plenty of dancing.

Musician P Jae Stanley will provide the tunes for the first part of the evening, with the club's resident DJ Chedi set to take to the decks for the rest of the evening.

Tickets to the event cost 2,500 baht (£52.10) and all of the money raised will go towards the Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation, which was set up to provide young people in the Thai city with the chance to learn the English language.

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Perth basks in four-day heatwave

People in Perth have been enjoying four days of very warm weather in the city.

People in Perth have been basking in the warmth of a four-day heatwave that has hit the city.

The Bureau of Meteorology has confirmed that a heatwave has taken place, defining it as being a period when the temperature climbs to 35 degrees C or above.

Over the weekend this consistent temperature level was reached and it has remained high in the city ever since, with the mercury peaking at 40.6 degrees C on Monday March 12th.

It is only the third time that the city has recorded temperatures this high for four days during March, with the event previously happening during 1922 and 2003.

Overall, Perth has also recorded the highest average monthly temperature on record for the month of March so far.

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American dance troupe to perform in Mumbai

A troupe of dancers from the US are set to showcase their impressive skills in Mumbai this month.

A dance group comprising of classically-trained performers will be showcasing their impressive modern style in Mumbai this month.

The Bad Boys of Dance were formed in Maryland in the US and are in India to demonstrate their impressive routines, which were created with influences from the member's training in ballet and jazz, the Times of India reported.

"Our show is all about fun and enjoying the moment," explained the group's founder Rasta Thomas.

And despite their name, the group includes two female members, one of whom is Adrienne Canterna-Thomas, the wife of Thomas.

The group will be staging their show in seven cities across India - including Delhi, Chennai and Hyderabad - and have already danced in front of legendary performers Prabhu Deva and Mithun Chakraborty.

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Auckland 'cured Michael Crawford of ME'

Actor Michael Crawford has spoken about how moving to New Zealand has helped him to overcome his chronic fatigue.

Michael Crawford has spoken about how moving to live in Auckland has helped him to overcome an illness and find a new zest for life.

The stage performer, who was most recently seen in the West End playing the role of Oz in the Wizard of Oz, told the Daily Mail that moving to live in New Zealand has done wonders for his health.

He was diagnosed with ME several years ago but since moving overseas he has managed to recover his health and now takes each day as it comes.

Crawford said he now lives in a house close to the beach outside Auckland and has learned to enjoy going sailing and fishing, as well as taking up gardening again.

"If you want solitude you can find it here and people are very respectful of that," Crawford told the newspaper.

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Dubai 'best city to live in the Middle East'

Dubai has been named as the best place to live in the Middle East by Saneou Al Hadath.

Dubai has been named as the best place to live in the Middle East in an annual study of the region.

Regional business magazine Saneou Al Hadath carries out a study of the region each March and this month has stated that Dubai is the best place to live across the Middle East and north Africa.

It is the third consecutive year that the emirate has come top of this poll, finishing ahead of 18 other cities across the area.

Dubai came just ahead of Abu Dhabi, with the two locations considered to have equally high standards social and economic conditions.

"Gulf countries still lead the first ranks in most of the indicators addressed in the study," commented Osama Al Renna, managing editor of Saneou Al Hadath.

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English National Ballet dancers to perform in Cape Town

Some of the best dancers from the English National Ballet are set to appear on stage in South Africa

A number of the best dancers from the English National Ballet (ENB) are set to appear in Cape Town next month to perform Giselle.

The Cape Town City Ballet (CTCB) will be hosting the show at the Artscape Opera House, with the musical score to be provided by the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra.

A limited run of ten performances will be held, with the first taking place on April 13th.

Dance partners and principles from the ENB Daria Klimentova and Vadim Muntagirov will be taking to the stage to perform in just three of the evening shows on April 14th, 18th and 21st.

Tickets for the performances are priced from 100 South African rand (£8.40).

The version of the ballet to be performed was created in 1971 by David Poole and has been danced seven times since 1997 by the CTCB.

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Abu Dhabi's golf facilities awarded prize

The golf facilities available in Abu Dhabi have received an award from Golf Journal.

The golf facilities in Abu Dhabi could help to attract more visitors to the area in the future as they have been awarded a prize.

Golf Journal has announced the emirate's golfling facilities have been given the newcomer destination of the year trophy at its annual Travel Awards, which are hosted in Berlin.

The emirate managed to score a record breaking 77,721 points from the judging panel to scoop the honour and fought off competition from Mauritius, Greece, Turkey and Bulgaria.

"To have Germany's golf industry experts overwhelmingly recognise Abu Dhabi's diverse and dynamic product significantly strengthens our golf tourism credentials," said Dayne Lim, product development director at Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority.

Abu Dhabi received its prize based on its overall excellence and commitment to producing high standards of course condition and service.

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Bangkok Airport reopens after floods

An airport in Bangkok that was closed last year by the floods which hit the city has opened again.

An airport in Bangkok which was forced to shut last year after floods hit the city has opened its doors again.

The Don Muang Airport has allowed flights to land for the first time since the devastating floods hit the city late last year.

Located in the Thai city, the airport is considered the second airport after the main Suvarnabhumi International Airport and deals with both domestic and international flights.

Flights due to land at the larger terminal were forced to divert to the larger hub during the four months that the site was closed.

It is expected the airport will soon be back working to full capacity again and it is predicted to see around 1.4 million passengers over the coming year.

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Abu Dhabi marks start of Air Expo

Abu Dhabi has celebrated the start of the Air Expo at the state's Al Bateen Airport.

Abu Dhabi has heralded the start of the Air Expo at the Al Bateen Airport, which is being held to provide a place to share the latest developments in the aviation industry.

The event began today (March 6th) and saw Shaikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, national security advisor and deputy chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, opening the event.

The expo is being held for the first time and is seeing major players from across the aviation sector taking part in the show to put on displays featuring some of their most impressive new aircraft and discuss innovations in the sector.

Some of the big names which are showcasing their developments at the show include Etihad Airways, Royal Jet, Mubadala Aerospace, the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces and Rotana Jet.

Reference

Adelaide hotel 'at zero per cent waste'

A hotel in Adelaide has been recognised for having a zero per cent rate of waste.

A hotel in Adelaide has been recognised for its attempts to help the environment by making a dramatic reduction to the amount of waste it produces.

The InterContinental Adelaide has managed to achieve a zero per cent rate of waste, with all of the rubbish it produces now being recycled.

As a result of this, the hotel has not sent anything to landfill for the past three months.

The initiative was introduced by the company globally and general manager at the Adelaide hotel James Allen said it had helped to set a new benchmark in recycling standards.

"We set our targets to have 100 per cent recycling of waste and zero landfill by the end of 2012 and we have achieved it a year earlier than expected," Mr Allen added.

Reference

Gary Barlow 'enjoying trip to Cape Town'

Gary Barlow has taken to Twitter to talk about how much he is enjoying his time in Cape Town.

Gary Barlow has taken to his Twitter account to speak about how much he is enjoying spending time in Cape Town.

The Take That singer had been forced to rearrange his plans after issues with his flight but made it to South Africa slightly later than planned on March 3rd.

However, he was quick to fall in love with the city and made his views known on the social networking site by posting an image of himself wearing a striped T-shirt and a pair of sunglasses while on Table Mountain, with the view of Cape Town behind him.

It could be plenty of his followers are now also eager to to head to the sunny city to escape the cool weather in the UK.

Reference

Abu Dhabi hotels see record year

Hotels in Abu Dhabi have seen a record year over the past 12 months.

Hotels in Abu Dhabi could be increasingly filled with holiday guests as the emirate has reported it has seen a huge rise in the number of people staying in its accommodation.

The latest figures for the past 12 months showed 2,111,611 stayed in the emirate's hotels and hotel apartments.

This figures is particularly important as a target of two million guests had been set for 2011, with this number beating it by six per cent.

It was noted this number was particularly encouraging as a number of new hotels and resorts have been constructed in the state in recent times, which have significantly increased its overall capacity.

These include several five star properties and come in addition to Saadiyat Island being opened up to guests.

Reference

One Direction to play concert in Melbourne

One Direction are already proving to be a big hit in Australia, as a concert in Melbourne sold out in minutes.

A concert by the British boyband One Direction looks set to be a huge hit with their fans in Australia, as tickets sold out in a matter of minutes.

The group, who were out together to take part in the 2010 series of The X Factor, put tickets on sale for their show in Melbourne.

However, the group has already amassed such as following in the city that the gig sold out in just three minutes.

The group are planning to play one show in the city on April 16th at the Hisense Arena as part of a short tour in the region, as they will also be performing in Sydney and New Zealand.

With demand for the tickets so high it is though the group will be making a second trip to the country in order to play more shows in larger venues.

Reference

Mumbai's fashion week begins

Mumbai is poised to host the toast of the fashion world in the coming days as part of its fashion week.

Mumbai is set to see some of the world's most stylish people and amazing designs being paraded in the city as part of its fashion week.

Starting today (March 2nd 2012), the event will showcase the very best designers from both India and beyond.

Lakme Fashion Week will showcase the creations of more than 80 designers and over 400 buyers have been registered to attend the event.

This year, it will run to March 6th and will see designers such as Krishna Mehta and Bibhu Mohapatra displaying their latest designs on the catwalks.

It is the 13th time that the event has been hosted, although in the very early years it took place in Delhi.

Reference

Abu Dhabi hotels see record year

Hotels in Abu Dhabi have seen a record year over the past 12 months.

Hotels in Abu Dhabi could be increasingly filled with holiday guests as the emirate has reported it has seen a huge rise in the number of people staying in its accommodation.

The latest figures for the past 12 months showed 2,111,611 stayed in the emirate's hotels and hotel apartments.

This figures is particularly important as a target of two million guests had been set for 2011, with this number beating it by six per cent.

It was noted this number was particularly encouraging as a number of new hotels and resorts have been constructed in the state in recent times, which have significantly increased its overall capacity.

These include several five star properties and come in addition to Saadiyat Island being opened up to guests.

Reference

Book Flights to South Africa to Get Soaked in Pleasure

The land of blissful celebrations and endless pleasures, South Africa is a dream travel destination of many travellers.

The country is renowned for celebrating an array of carnivals that recite the stories of its glorious history and vibrant culture and entice millions to plan air travel and book flight tickets to various South Africa cities including Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth and East London.

To witness the exciting merrymaking and lively ambience of the country, Cape Minstrel’s Carnival is perhaps the best pick for the travellers booking flights to South Africa. The carnival is celebrated as a traditional New Year in South Africa and features many events including folk dances, vibrant parades, live music, ethnic shows, etc

Cape Argus Cycle Tour is counted among the popular carnivals in South Africa and features a 109 kilometres long cycle race. Moreover, Comrades Marathon is also one of the top carnivals of South Africa and wins the admiration of every sport enthusiast planning holiday tour to this amazing country. The marathon is celebrated to pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in the World War. The carnival features a race of 90 kilometres and tempts millions to book cheap flights to South Africa.

Furthermore, Cape Town Jazz Festival is a dream of every music lover and has won a top rank among the best carnivals of South Africa. The carnival feathers gathering of some famous local and international musicians and offers the visitors a chance to attend remarkable musical and training workshops to enhance their skills and perhaps maybe discover their hidden flair!

SkyTeam Launches Go Africa Passes

SkyTeam, the global airline alliance, introduced a new Go Africa Pass on flights operated by Kenya Airways (one of its member) within Africa. The passes will facilitate cost savings and flexibility to business travellers and holiday makers flying with any of SkyTeam’s 15 member airlines on an intercontinental round-trip to Africa or a Go Round the World ticket.

As revealed in a press release on Kenya Airways’ website, “customers purchasing a Go Africa Pass can opt from a minimum of three to a maximum of 16 flight coupons. Fares are calculated based on the number of miles flown non-stop, offering discounts of up to 75% off standard fares, depending on the itinerary. The coupons have no minimum stay, open-jaw itineraries are permitted and passengers can stop in each city multiple times – giving them complete flexibility to plan their trips”.

The passes are available for sale now, for travel beginning on or after March 1.

Kenya Airways, a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, is operating to over 45 African destinations in 36 countries including; Lagos in Nigeria, Accra in Ghana, Johannesburg in South Africa, Luanda in Angola, Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Cairo in Egypt. The airlines operates flights to Nairobi from Hong Kong and Guangzhou in the Greater China Region, apart from European cities, Asia and the Middle East.

Air France, Alitalia, KLM and Delta Air Lines are some other SkyTeam airlines that offer services to Africa. Korean Air will start operating their flights to Nairobi in June and Saudi Arabian Airlines and MEA, the future alliance members, also fly to Africa.

The launch of Go Africa Passes and addition of more flight services will surely mean flexible and affordable air travel for business as well as leisure travellers. On the other hand, it will also make holidays to Africa more rewarding thereby promoting tours and travel to the destination.