People remember the launch of the US$1.5 billion (Dh5.5bn) Atlantis Hotel in Dubai as the last big party before the recession hit. The lavish event, reported to cost $20 million, epitomized the perception of an indulgent brand in Dubai. A year afterwards, however, a hotel executive says the money was well spent, and the actual amount for the launch party was far less than $20 million.
Wendy Potter, Vice President for Finance with Atlantis, said “In the extremely challenging economy we’re in, we’re very fortunate in that we are still living off a very very successful launch that not only put Atlantis on the map, but also put Dubai on the map.” Atlantis had budgeted 10 percent of its revenues for advertising, twice the amount most hotels spend. Miss Potter said next year Atlantis plans to spend 5 percent of revenues on advertising.
The Palatine Hill is the centermost of the Seven Hills of Rome, and is one of the most ancient parts of the city. Overlooking the Roman Forum , this is an area of majestic ruins and grand views. This is the site where the mythical she-wolf nursed Romulus and Remus. When they were older, Romulus got into an argument with Remus and killed him . He later went on to found the city of...
These gardens are lovely to take a stroll through. At the entrance of the garden, a marble monument has been erected to honor soldiers killed during WW II. Known as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, it was built to commemorate especially those Russian cities that suffered atrocities under Nazi rule. ...
An absolute delight for the history-lover! Experience a different kind of Spanish architecture, comprised of the European High Renaissance merged with some elements from the remains of Islamic architecture back in Spain, namely domes and square towers. The building presents a beautiful façade, and the interior is none the less charming, and it is at times difficult to comprehend what style of arch...
Stage dramas, painting and photography exhibitions, pottery or some type of workshop or musical can be found going on at the art center. It’s a favourite amongst Colomboites. Open: Monday-Friday 9AM-1PM and 2-4PM. No 18 Guilford Crescent, Colombo 07, Phone: 0094112 695794. ...