March 28- During a meeting of the Arab Tourism Organization in Alexandria Egypt, a proposal was raised to create electronic ID cards containing traveler’s biometric information, which would one day be used in place of traditional passports. The new cards would benefit the tourism sector because it will allow people to travel more freely within and between Arab countries in the region.
Tourism is becoming a more important sector of the economy as Arab countries work towards diversifying their economy. Gulf countries aim to make the tourism sector a key component of the economy, not just a fringe sector. Tourists from the Gulf region tend to be big spenders in comparison to those from the United States and Europe, so an ID card to make travel more convenient in the region, would boost the tourism industry. Kuwait in 2008 began accepting the ‘Gulf Smart Card’ – a common passport for citizens of GCC countries (Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the UAE).
Located in Griffith Park, the Los Angeles Zoo has eleven hundred animals that call it home. Animal exhibits include the rare California condor, chimpanzees, orangutans, koalas, birds, a monkey exhibit, and much more. The zoo is also a certified botanical garden with over 800 different plant species. ...
Located on the eastern tip of North Male' Atoll, Paradise Island Resort, locally known as Lankanfinolhu, is a sight for sore eyes. The third largest resort in Maldives, it offers superb accommodation to tourists with its water and beach bungalows. Paradise Resort offers plenty of recreational and water sports facilities like diving, wind surfing, water skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, canoeing, ba...
The Viking Ship Museum or “Vikingskipshuset” is located in Bygdoy, a short bus or ferry ride from the city center. The museum features several Viking ships used in ancient burials that have been preserved amazingly well by the blue clay in which they were buried. The boats are filled with jewels and artifacts, and are definitely worth seeing. This is also an excellent stop for those with kids in t...
Located in central Amsterdam on the Dam Square, this 17th century palace was originally built as a city hall for Amsterdam's magistrates. The museum is now used primarily for state functions and for presentation of various official and royal prizes. The Palace is not open to visitors as it has been temporarily closed down for major renovation. &nbs...