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
The Botanical Gardens
Oslo, Norway
The Botanical Gardens are a large oasis in the middle of Oslo. The gardens collect plants from around the world and are said to have more than seven thousand plants inside. The gardens, with waterfalls and other soothing features, are also home to several near-extinct plant species native to the city. Address: Sers’ Gate 1, 0562 Oslo Tel: +47 22-85-17-00 ...
Tennispalatsi
Helsinki, Finland
This complex is a cultural center located in the Kammpi area of the city center. The place houses a lot of shops, a multi Cineplex called ‘Finkino’, an Art Museum, Tennis Palace and the Museum of Cultures. Tennispalatsi has had a rich history in the sports arena as well. Back in 1938 it was constructed as a center for the Olympic Games held in 1940 and later was the ground for a few basketball gam...
National Museum of Pakistan
Karachi, Pakistan
The most prominent of all museums in Pakistan. It contains a splendid collection of ancient objects, transcripts, and other relics from prehistoric ages to the modern history of Pakistan. The galleries are well organized and the ambience is one of care rather than neglect. A special mention are the exhibits on the Indus Valley settlements, namely the ancient Harappa, Gandhara, and the Mohen-jo-dar...
The Scientific Center
Kuwait, Kuwait
Located in Salmiya, The Scientific Centre in Kuwait serves as a hub for environmental education for the gulf region and also the largest aquarium in the Middle East. The three main attractions at the centre are the IMAX theatre, Discovery Place and Aquarium. Built with some of the most advanced technological equipment today, the center’s interiors are heavily influenced by Kuwaiti and Islamic art....