The World Tourism Organisation (WTO) World Tourism Barometer shows that the number of tourists visiting the Middle East plummeted 18% during the first four months of the year. The UN group attributes the sharp decrease to a decline in the number of tourists visiting Saudi Arabia. The UNWTO report said “Globally, tourism fell by eight per cent in the first four months of the year, continuing the trend that emerged in the second half of 2008.”
The report said only Africa went against the trend of falling tourist numbers with a 5% increase. Europe and the Middle East were the hardest hit regions with 10% and 18% drops respectively. Asia Pacific had a 6% decline, far below previous growth figures. Oceania fell 4% and South Asia had the sharpest drop at 12%. Results in the Americas were more mixed but overall tourist numbers fell 5%.
Geneva's world famous Lake Leman, often referred to as Lake Geneva, is the largest body of fresh water in Switzerland, and is the central attraction of the city. It offers a tranquil ambience for relaxation and recreational activities all year round. The Promenades built along the right and left banks of the lake contain cafes, street markets, parks, amusement rides, and other attractions. &nb...
Located in the picturesque town of Besharre (or Bsharri), about 120km from Beirut, the Gibran Museum is dedicated to famed Lebanese poet, philosopher, painter, and author Gibran Khalil Gibran. He was born into poverty in 1883 and received no formal education – priests taught him how to read and write. In 1895, after their land was confiscated, Gibran moved to the US with his family. ...
Also called the Plaza Francia, this is a large public square that is immensely popular with locals of all ages during summer evenings and winter afternoons. The plaza features a majestic obelisk and a refreshing water fountain, two prominent features that make it stand out as more of a photo op than any other public square in Caracas. It also contains a number of stalls offering foodstuff, ...
Another design by Antoni Gaud and Josep Maria Jujol, built in 1905-1907. It is located at 43, Passeig de Gracia. ...