General Travel News
Tourists Visiting Middle East Drop 18%
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%.
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What to do with children in tow
Bangkok, Thailand
Siam Ocean World This is Southeast Asia's largest aquarium with 400 kinds of more than 30,000 aquatic creatures for visitors to view. Children and adults alike will love to watch the sharks and penguins being fed (13:00 or 14:00 hrs). They can take a walk through the breathtaking underwater tunnel and see dolphins, rays, colorful fish and many other under water creatures through the glass which...
Wenceslas Square
Prague, Czech Republic
It’s easy to be put off by this square with its drunken stag parties, drug dealers, pickpockets and brash advertising on old buildings. However still take a look as this place is the central area of Czech history, a gathering place for demonstrators and proud Czechs; also check out Wenceslas Statue at the southern end and the Memorial to the Victims of Communism is nearby. Address: Vaclavske name...
Amman Waves Waterpark
Amman, Jordan
The water park has lots of thrilling rides to keep the children entertained. It is the perfect place to relax and have fun especially for children who are bored of shopping and visiting tourist sites. The lower level has wave pools, river rides and slides as well as fast food outlets for the kids. The upper level has a quieter pool and restaurant area. ...
Mausoleum of Saladin
Damascus, Syria
Saladin was a famous Sultan, most renowned for his role as leader of the Muslims during the bloody Crusades. He died in 1193 and his mausoleum is a low rise white building with a red dome. Contained within it is a walnut wood cenotaph containing Saladin’s body carved with intricate motifs representative of the Ayubbid Era. Also contained within, is a marble tomb gifted by Kaiser Wilhelm II o...