General Travel News
Saudi Arabia Umrah Pilgrimage Numbers Drop 30%
The number of people making the umrah pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia has fallen 30% due to swine flu related travel restrictions. Visa applications for travel to Saudi Arabia during umrah have been suspended by Egypt, Iran, and Iraq. Fursan Travel Company, based in Saudi Arabia, is concerned about the affect this will have on the economy. CEO Roger Pfund said “The decision to ban people travelling due to the H1N1 pandemic is respected, however the longer term impact on the economy can not be understated.”
Mr. Pfund said there is a significant decline in travel compared to the same period last year and he expects based on current levels, numbers will be down by one third. Official figures show there has been over 177,000 cases of swine flu and 1,176 deaths around the world.
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Featured Sights To See
Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts
Shanghai, China
This museum has a spectacular interior. The architecture is distinctly French with gleaming marble floors and palatial scale staircases, wooden beams and stained glass windows. On display are various intricate and lovely pieces of wood carving, ivory carvings as well as creations composed of jade and bamboo. In addition there are traditional lanterns, dresses, tapestries, fans and snuff boxes on...
Beach
Karachi, Pakistan
The beach, commonly called Clifton, is a long stretch of shore. It extends from southern parts of Karachi to the northwestern Karachi coasts, where it merges with the eastern coasts of Baluchistan. The common areas of the beach ideal for recreation include: The Clifton area, also called Seaview; The Sandspit area (a long drive from the main Clifton beach, much quieter and calmer, ideal p...
Universal Studios
Los Angeles, United States
Universal Studios is one of the oldest and most famous Hollywood movie studios. Guests can take tours of real soundstages and sets, or choose to spend the day at the theme park. Universal Studios theme park offers rides and attraction centered around some of the most famous movies ever produced. ...
Ottomon Military Hospital
Beirut, Lebanon
This military hospital right beside the Serail was built in 1865 by Sultan Abdul Aziz. From the period of the French mandate till the 1960’s it served as a courthouse. It was later converted into the of the Lebanese University but most parts of it were destroyed in the war. Completely renovated, it now houses the Council for Development and Reconstruction. ...