General Travel News
Umrah pilgrim figures may hit 4mn this year
The National Committee for Haj and Umrah, Saudi Arabia, predicted that around four million Umrah pilgrims are expected in Mecca this year. This is a 15 per cent increase from last year when the figure stood at 3.1 million.
The hotel industry in the region is particularly excited about this expected surge. “We have high hopes for 2010 and are well placed to welcome guests to the holy city of Mecca," said Omar Boujlid, General Manager of Mövenpick Hotel & Residence Hajar Tower Mecca. "Following the global market stagnation observed in 2009, this year we have so far witnessed strong demand and have welcomed many new guests looking to experience a calming, spiritual stay in the Holy City." Boujlid said his hotel expects a boost in occupancy and has added 129 rooms to the hotel to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims.
The Mövenpick Hotel & Residence Hajar Tower Mecca, part of the prestigious Abraj Al Bait complex, was inaugurated in November 2009.
More General Travel News
Latest Travel News
Featured Sights To See
Heritage House Museum
Doha, Qatar
This museum is located in a building dating back to the 1930s. It showcases the ethnography of Qatar. The architectural style definitely invokes nostalgia for the old Doha. The stone tower was a feature common to structures in the gulf region since they kept buildings ventilated and cool even in soaring temperatures. Even the exhibits harken back to a time now lost. Most of the pieces showca...
The Oslo Cathedral
Oslo, Norway
The Oslo Cathedral is located near KarlJohans gate in Stortorvet Square. This beautiful building has been rebuilt several times, and currently serves as the main church for the Oslo bishopric. The Royal Family uses the cathedral for large events, like funerals and weddings. The organ within is impressive, with the view of Oslo from the steeple even more grand. There are several bazaars in the pavi...
Citadella
Budapest, Hungary
A fortress that never saw battle, it was erected by the Hasburgs after the 1848-49 War of Independence just in case of further rebellion. However by the time it was ready, the political climate had cooled and the citadella was of no use. Today it contains some of the city’s artillery, the Bunker Waxworks (466 5794, times 9am-7pm, price 1200Ft) and a rather rundown hostel/hotel. However if you walk...
The Royal Opera House
London, United Kingdom
Based in Covent Garden theatre, The Royal Opera House is one of the largest performing arts venues in London. It is home to the Royal Opera, the Royal Ballet and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House. The building has been rebuilt many times since it was first constructed in 1732, but it is still considered a historical landmark and worth a visit even if you’re not planning to watch any of...