Industry experts addressing delegates at the Arabian Hotels Investment Conference 2009 said the hospitality sector has been deeply affected by the global financial crises. They said there are signs of improvement but it is far from over. Deutsche Bank CEO for the Middle East and North Africa, Dr. Henri Azzam said it “could be deeper and longer than many of us anticipated.” Deloitte’s Global Managing Partner for Hospitality, Martin Russ, said Sars and the Gulf War look like blips compared to the effects of the global economic downturn.
However, while speaking about regional trends in the real estate market, Global CEO at Jones Lang Lasalle Hotel noted the Middle East is one of the few regions where positive economic growth is forecast for 2009. The International Monetary Fund forecast 2.5% growth for the Middle East in its April Global Economic Update.
Malahide Castle is one of the oldest in Ireland. The estate was founded 1185 for Richard Talbot, a knight who came to Ireland with Henry II during the Norman invasion. The Talbot family would continue to live on the estate until 1975, barring the 1650s during Cromwell's occupation of Ireland (the interlopers were subsequently hanged). Construction on the castle began in the mid-t...
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...
As the name goes, this museum is a memory of all the times that Finland has had to protect itself from external offense during the two World Wars. The exhibits display the artillery, guns, missiles and gunpowder used and the ways in which Finland maintained its sovereignty through the years. It was opened in 1948 with the thick walls of the Suomenlinna fortress. The museum is open seasonally durin...
Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theater was built by the Japanese prisoners of war during the second world war. The architectural splendor is worth a visit, even if you’re not in the mood for the Opera or Ballet. Address: Ataturk Kochasi 28, Tel: 2339081. Opening Times: Mon to Fri 6PM, Sat and Sun 5PM ...