LHASA – The Mount Qomolangma scenic area reopened to the public on Saturday after a temporary closure following a 6.8-magnitude earthquake which hit Dingri County, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region, in January 2025.
As of 8 a.m., a total of eight vehicles carrying 19 visitors had entered the scenic area. Yang Bo, a tourist from southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality, was the first to enter the area on Saturday.
“I waited in Dingri County last night for its reopening, and I was so excited that I finally got to see Mount Qomolangma,” he said.
On Jan. 7, a 6.8-magnitude quake struck Dingri, home to the northern base camp of the world’s highest peak, Mount Qomolangma, claiming 126 lives. The scenic area was closed on the same day for the sake of the safety of tourists and staff.
As of Feb. 28, Mount Qomolangma had not been affected by the quake, with no obvious icefalls, avalanches or geological changes being observed, according to Ma Weiqiang, director of Mount Qomolangma Atmosphere and Environment Comprehensive Observation and Research Station under the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
“This shows that the scenic area has the safe conditions necessary for reopening,” Ma said.
To prepare for the reopening, the local government formed a joint inspection working group on Jan. 22, which took 35 days to carry out comprehensive and meticulous inspections on important locations in the scenic area.
“Only through comprehensive inspections could we ensure the safety of tourists when the scenic area reopened,” said Pasang, a maintenance worker at the scenic area.
The local accommodation industry is also ready for the reopening. “All 35 rooms have been cleaned up and half of the rooms have already been booked,” said Tsering Geden, a hotel owner in the county’s Pasum Village.
Last year, the Mount Qomolangma scenic area received more than 547,600 domestic and overseas tourists — an increase of 18 percent year on year, including 13,700 overseas tourists, mainly from Singapore, Malaysia, Germany and France.
During this same period, the revenue of the scenic area exceeded 110 million yuan (about 15.3 million U.S. dollars), up 1.4 percent year on year.
LHASA – Kawasan pemandangan Gunung Qomolangma dibuka semula kepada orang ramai pada Sabtu selepas ditutup sementara susulan gempa bumi berukuran 6.8 magnitud yang melanda daerah Dingri, Wilayah Autonomi Xizang barat daya China, pada Januari 2025.
Setakat jam 8 pagi, sebanyak lapan kenderaan yang membawa 19 pengunjung telah memasuki kawasan pemandangan itu. Yang Bo, pelancong dari Perbandaran Chongqing barat daya China, adalah yang pertama memasuki kawasan itu pada Sabtu.
“Saya menunggu di daerah Dingri malam tadi untuk pembukaan semula, dan saya sangat teruja sehingga akhirnya dapat melihat Gunung Qomolangma,” katanya.
Pada 7 Januari, gempa bumi berukuran 6.8 magnitud melanda Dingri, rumah kepada kem pangkalan utara puncak tertinggi di dunia, Gunung Qomolangma, meragut 126 nyawa. Kawasan pemandangan itu ditutup pada hari yang sama demi keselamatan pelancong dan kakitangan.
Sehingga 28 Februari, Gunung Qomolangma tidak terjejas oleh gempa bumi, tanpa ais jatuh yang jelas, runtuhan salji atau perubahan geologi diperhatikan, menurut Ma Weiqiang, pengarah Stesen Pemerhatian dan Penyelidikan Komprehensif Atmosfera dan Alam Sekitar Gunung Qomolangma di bawah Akademi Sains China.
“Ini menunjukkan bahawa kawasan pemandangan mempunyai keadaan selamat yang diperlukan untuk dibuka semula,” kata Ma.
Bagi persiapan pembukaan semula, kerajaan tempatan membentuk kumpulan kerja pemeriksaan bersama pada 22 Januari, yang mengambil masa 35 hari untuk menjalankan pemeriksaan menyeluruh dan teliti di lokasi penting di kawasan pemandangan itu.
“Hanya melalui pemeriksaan menyeluruh kami dapat memastikan keselamatan pelancong apabila kawasan pemandangan dibuka semula,” kata Pasang, seorang pekerja penyelenggaraan di kawasan pemandangan itu.
Industri penginapan tempatan juga bersedia untuk pembukaan semula. “Semua 35 bilik telah dibersihkan dan separuh daripada bilik telah ditempah,” kata Tsering Geden, pemilik hotel di Kampung Pasum di daerah itu.
Tahun lepas, kawasan pemandangan Gunung Qomolangma menerima lebih 547,600 pelancong domestik dan luar negara – peningkatan sebanyak 18 peratus tahun ke tahun, termasuk 13,700 pelancong luar negara, terutama dari Singapura, Malaysia, Jerman dan Perancis.
Dalam tempoh yang sama ini, hasil kawasan pemandangan itu melebihi 110 juta yuan (kira-kira 15.3 juta dolar AS), meningkat 1.4 peratus tahun ke tahun.
Pulau Sibuan di Taman Marin Tun Sakaran, Semporna antara yang menjadi tarikan pelancong ke Sabah. BH ONLINE – Kementerian Pelancongan, Kebudayaan dan Alam Sekitar Sabah
KOTA KINABALU – Sabah mencatat peningkatan resit pelancongan kepada RM7.28 bilion tahun lalu, berbanding RM5.76 bilion pada 2023, kenaikan sebanyak RM1.52 bilion.
Resit pelancongan merujuk kepada perbelanjaan pelancong asing termasuk kos penerbangan dan bayaran bagi pelbagai perkhidmatan di destinasi tujuan.
Menteri Pelancongan, Kebudayaan dan Alam Sekitar Sabah, Datuk Seri Christina Liew, berkata ia adalah hasil kedatangan 3.14 juta pelancong ke negeri itu, melebihi sasaran tiga juta pelancong ditetapkan pihaknya.
“Secara keseluruhan, industri pelancongan di Sabah mencatat pertumbuhan positif sebanyak 20.4 peratus tahun lalu berbanding 2023 dengan jumlah ketibaan pelawat seramai 3,147,480, melebihi sasaran tiga juta ditetapkan untuk 2024.
Anggaran resit pelancongan pada 2024 ialah RM7.28 bilion, iaitu RM1.52 bilion lebih tinggi berbanding 2023 (RM5.76 bilion),” katanya pada Majlis Anugerah Perkhidmatan Cemerlang (APC) kementeriannya di sini, malam tadi.
Hadir sama Pembantu Menteri Pelancongan, Kebudayaan dan Alam Sekitar Sabah, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai dan Setiausaha Tetap Kementerian Pelancongan, Kebudayaan dan Alam Sekitar Sabah, Datuk Josie Lai.
Liew berkata, pencapaian sektor pelancongan di Sabah tahun lalu menunjukkan pemulihan 75 peratus selepas pandemik COVID-19.
“Pencapaian kadar pemulihan itu didorong pertumbuhan pasaran domestik dan negara serantau seperti China dan Brunei.
“Jumlah ketibaan antarabangsa secara keseluruhan pulih 86 peratus daripada tahap prapandemik.
“Pasaran sasaran seperti China, Indonesia, Filipina, Taiwan, Jepun, India dan Eropah juga mencatat pertumbuhan positif,” katanya.
Berikutan pencapaian itu, pihaknya menyasarkan untuk mencapai 3.5 juta pelancong tahun ini menerusi pelbagai usaha promosi, termasuk di luar negara dengan 11 program promosi luar negara dirancang sepanjang tahun ini.
Katanya, antara sasaran pasaran baharu ialah Russia bagi menarik kedatangan pelancong dari negara itu terutama pada musim sejuk, selain pasaran Australia dan India.
“Kerajaan menyokong usaha kita dalam meningkatkan sektor pelancongan Sabah dan kita yakin dengan perancangan yang dilaksanakan dapat mencapai sasaran kedatangan pelancong pada tahun ini,” katanya.
Liew berkata, pencapaian sektor pelancongan, kebudayaan dan alam sekitar di bawah Rancangan Malaysia Ke-12 (RMKe-12) yang kini berada di penghujung, memberi impak signifikan kepada pembangunan Sabah.
Berikutan itu, kementeriannya perlu menilai pencapaian secara menyeluruh sepanjang RMKe-12 untuk merangka perancangan yang lebih kukuh pada RMKe-13.
“Dalam peralihan ke RMK-13, kita akan memberi tumpuan kepada pelaksanaan program dan projek berimpak tinggi bagi memperkukuh industri pelancongan, memartabatkan kebudayaan dan memperkukuh agenda pemuliharaan alam sekitar.
“Inisiatif seperti peningkatan infrastruktur pelancongan, pemeliharaan warisan budayadan alam sekitar akan terus diperhebatkan bagi memastikan kesinambungan usaha pembangunan mampan Sabah,” katanya.
The longest railway in the world: The Trans-Siberian Railway (Transsib). ANADOLU
MOSCOW – The Trans-Siberian Railway, historically known as the Great Siberian Route and often shortened to Transsib, is the world’s longest railway line, stretching across the vast expanse of Russia.
Spanning 9,289 kilometers (5,772 miles) from Moscow in the west to Vladivostok in the east, the railway serves as a vital artery for trade, travel, and economic integration between Europe and Asia.
The railway has played a crucial role in Russia’s development, facilitating military movements, trade, and settlement expansion. From its inception in the late 19th century to its modern-day advancements, the Trans-Siberian Railway remains an essential element of Russia’s infrastructure, bridging cultures and economies across the continent.
The idea of a railway connecting the vast Russian Empire took shape in the late 19th century, driven by the need to unify the country, facilitate economic growth, and improve military logistics. Construction began in 1891 under Emperor Alexander III, with his son, the future Nicholas II, ceremonially laying the first stone.
The motivations behind this grand project were clear. The railway would strengthen administrative control over the distant regions of Siberia and the Russian Far East. It aimed to facilitate trade by connecting industrial hubs with raw material sources and international markets.
Militarily, the railway enhanced troop mobility, ensuring a swift response to potential threats. Additionally, it encouraged population movement eastward to make use of the region’s untapped resources.
However, building the Trans-Siberian Railway was no easy feat. Engineers had to overcome extreme climates, treacherous terrains, and supply shortages. Thousands of laborers — including peasants, prisoners, and foreign workers — worked under harsh conditions to lay the tracks. Despite these challenges, the railway was officially completed in 1916, marking a significant milestone in Russia’s modernization efforts.
Throughout history, the Trans-Siberian Railway has served as more than just a transportation route; it has been a strategic asset. During World War I, the railway was used to transport troops and supplies across the empire. In the Soviet era, it played a crucial role in industrialization and the movement of resources.
World War II further emphasized its importance, as it enabled the movement of weapons and troops to the Eastern Front. The Cold War saw the railway become a key component of Soviet logistics and defense strategy.
Electrification efforts began in the 1930s and continued well into the late 20th century, increasing efficiency and speed. Today, modernization efforts continue to transform the railway into a high-speed, technologically advanced transportation network.
The modern Transsib
In an interview with Anadolu, Vladimir Prozorov, a researcher at the Russian University of Transport, highlighted the railway’s ongoing significance in global trade and economic cooperation.
Prozorov explained that the Trans-Siberian Railway remains Russia’s most crucial transport artery, connecting over 20 of its regions with one another and with foreign nations. Today, it is a technically advanced railway, where many innovative transportation management and infrastructure maintenance technologies are being tested and introduced.
The railway serves as a vital link for economic exchange between Europe and Asia, facilitating the transportation of goods. Notably, China has leveraged the route for freight shipments, making it a key component of the Belt and Road Initiative.
As part of the East-West international transport corridor, the Trans-Siberian works alongside other major railway routes, including the Baikal-Amur Mainline and the South Siberian Railway. These connections ensure the efficient distribution of cargo between Western Siberia’s resource-rich deposits, Pacific ports, and border crossings with Mongolia, China, and North Korea.
Prozorov also pointed out ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at improving railway efficiency, including upgrading sections and stations to eliminate “bottlenecks” and improve traffic flow. “For example, the bridge crossing the Amur River, completed in 2022, now connects the Russian Mikhailo-Semenovskaya station with the Chinese Tongjiang. Another notable project is the new Kerak tunnel in the Amur region, which was built through challenging geological conditions,” he said.
The Trans-Siberian Railway is more than just a commercial route — it is the backbone of countless cities and settlements that have developed along its tracks.
Beyond freight and passenger travel, it is also a crucial channel for communication. Mail wagons are included in passenger trains, and several separate trips to carry mail and baggage also travel the route. In recent years, collaboration between railway workers and the Russian Post has strengthened, particularly in organizing postal services container between the Moscow region and the Primorye, also known as Primorsky Krai, on the Pacific coast.
Traveling the Trans-Siberian
For travelers, the Trans-Siberian Railway offers an unparalleled experience — a journey across seven time zones through breathtaking landscapes.
Prozorov described the allure of the route, noting that from the bustling streets of Moscow to the Pacific shores of Vladivostok, passengers witness the Ural Mountains and “vast Siberian taiga and Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest freshwater lake.”
“Passengers can choose from luxurious cabins to budget-friendly third-class accommodations, each offering a unique window into Russian life and culture,” he added.
As global trade evolves and transportation technology advances, the Trans-Siberian Railway remains a cornerstone of Eurasian infrastructure — bridging distances, fostering development, and upholding its legacy as one of the world’s greatest engineering feats. Whether for trade, travel, or historical significance, Prozorov concluded, the Trans-Siberian Railway remains one of the world’s most iconic transportation marvels.
He described the Trans-Siberian Railway as a testament to human ingenuity and endurance, connecting people, cultures, and economies.
“Whether for trade, travel, or historical significance, the Trans-Siberian Railway remains one of the world’s most iconic transportation marvels.”
Kereta api terpanjang di dunia: Kereta Api Trans-Siberia (Transsib). ANADOLU
MOSCOW – Keretapi Trans-Siberia, yang dahulunya dikenali sebagai Laluan Siberia Besar dan sering dipendekkan kepada Transsib, ialah laluan kereta api terpanjang di dunia, merentangi kawasan luas Rusia.
Menjangkau 9,289 kilometer (5,772 batu) dari Moscow di barat ke Vladivostok di timur, kereta api berfungsi sebagai arteri penting untuk perdagangan, perjalanan dan integrasi ekonomi antara Eropah dan Asia.
Kereta api telah memainkan peranan penting dalam pembangunan Rusia, memudahkan pergerakan ketenteraan, perdagangan, dan pengembangan penempatan. Dari penubuhannya pada akhir abad ke-19 hingga kemajuan zaman modennya, Kereta Api Trans-Siberia kekal sebagai elemen penting dalam infrastruktur Rusia, merapatkan budaya dan ekonomi di seluruh benua.
Idea kereta api yang menghubungkan Empayar Rusia yang luas terbentuk pada akhir abad ke-19, didorong oleh keperluan untuk menyatukan negara, memudahkan pertumbuhan ekonomi, dan menambah baik logistik ketenteraan. Pembinaan bermula pada tahun 1891 di bawah Maharaja Alexander III, dengan anaknya, calon Nicholas II, secara upacara meletakkan batu pertama.
Motif di sebalik projek besar ini jelas. Kereta api itu akan mengukuhkan kawalan pentadbiran ke atas kawasan jauh Siberia dan Timur Jauh Rusia. Ia bertujuan untuk memudahkan perdagangan dengan menghubungkan hab perindustrian dengan sumber bahan mentah dan pasaran antarabangsa.
Dari segi ketenteraan, kereta api meningkatkan mobiliti tentera, memastikan tindak balas pantas terhadap potensi ancaman. Selain itu, ia menggalakkan pergerakan penduduk ke arah timur untuk menggunakan sumber yang belum diterokai di rantau ini.
Walau bagaimanapun, membina Kereta Api Trans-Siberia bukanlah sesuatu yang mudah. Jurutera terpaksa mengatasi iklim yang melampau, rupa bumi yang berbahaya, dan kekurangan bekalan. Beribu-ribu buruh – termasuk petani, banduan, dan pekerja asing – bekerja dalam keadaan yang sukar untuk meletakkan landasan. Walaupun terdapat cabaran-cabaran ini, kereta api itu telah disiapkan secara rasmi pada tahun 1916, menandakan satu peristiwa penting dalam usaha pemodenan Rusia.
Sepanjang sejarah, Kereta Api Trans-Siberia telah berkhidmat sebagai lebih daripada sekadar laluan pengangkutan; ia telah menjadi aset strategik. Semasa Perang Dunia I, kereta api digunakan untuk mengangkut tentera dan bekalan merentasi empayar. Pada era Soviet, ia memainkan peranan penting dalam perindustrian dan pergerakan sumber.
Perang Dunia II lebih menekankan kepentingannya, kerana ia membolehkan pergerakan senjata dan tentera ke Front Timur. Perang Dingin menyaksikan kereta api menjadi komponen utama logistik dan strategi pertahanan Soviet.
Usaha elektrifikasi bermula pada tahun 1930-an dan berterusan sehingga akhir abad ke-20, meningkatkan kecekapan dan kelajuan. Hari ini, usaha pemodenan terus mengubah kereta api menjadi rangkaian pengangkutan berkelajuan tinggi dan berteknologi maju.
Transsib moden
Dalam temu bual dengan Anadolu, Vladimir Prozorov, seorang penyelidik di Universiti Pengangkutan Rusia, menekankan kepentingan berterusan kereta api dalam perdagangan global dan kerjasama ekonomi.
Prozorov menjelaskan bahawa Kereta Api Trans-Siberia kekal sebagai arteri pengangkutan paling penting di Rusia, menghubungkan lebih 20 wilayahnya antara satu sama lain dan dengan negara asing. Hari ini, ia adalah kereta api yang maju dari segi teknikal, di mana banyak pengurusan pengangkutan yang inovatif dan teknologi penyelenggaraan infrastruktur sedang diuji dan diperkenalkan.
Kereta api berfungsi sebagai penghubung penting untuk pertukaran ekonomi antara Eropah dan Asia, memudahkan pengangkutan barang. Terutamanya, China telah memanfaatkan laluan untuk penghantaran barang, menjadikannya komponen utama Inisiatif Belt and Road.
Sebagai sebahagian daripada koridor pengangkutan antarabangsa Timur-Barat, Trans-Siberia berfungsi bersama laluan kereta api utama lain, termasuk Laluan Utama Baikal-Amur dan Kereta Api Siberia Selatan. Sambungan ini memastikan pengagihan kargo yang cekap antara deposit kaya sumber Siberia Barat, pelabuhan Pasifik dan lintasan sempadan dengan Mongolia, China dan Korea Utara.
Prozorov juga menunjukkan projek infrastruktur yang sedang berjalan bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kecekapan kereta api, termasuk menaik taraf bahagian dan stesen untuk menghapuskan “kesesakan” dan meningkatkan aliran trafik. “Sebagai contoh, jambatan merentasi Sungai Amur, siap pada 2022, kini menghubungkan stesen Mikhailo-Semenovskaya Rusia dengan Tongjiang China. Satu lagi projek penting ialah terowong baharu Kerak di wilayah Amur, yang dibina melalui keadaan geologi yang mencabar,” katanya.
Kereta Api Trans-Siberia bukan sekadar laluan komersial — ia adalah tulang belakang kepada banyak bandar dan penempatan yang telah dibangunkan di sepanjang laluannya.
Selain pengangkutan barang dan perjalanan penumpang, ia juga merupakan saluran penting untuk komunikasi. Gerabak mel disertakan dalam kereta api penumpang, dan beberapa perjalanan berasingan untuk membawa mel dan bagasi juga menempuh laluan itu. Dalam beberapa tahun kebelakangan ini, kerjasama antara pekerja kereta api dan Pos Rusia telah diperkukuh, terutama dalam mengatur kontena perkhidmatan pos antara wilayah Moscow dan Primorye, juga dikenali sebagai Primorsky Krai, di pantai Pasifik.
Kembara Trans-Siberia
Bagi pengembara, Kereta Api Trans-Siberia menawarkan pengalaman yang tiada tandingan — perjalanan merentasi tujuh zon waktu melalui landskap yang menakjubkan.
Prozorov menggambarkan daya tarikan laluan itu, dengan menyatakan bahawa dari jalan-jalan yang sibuk di Moscow ke pantai Pasifik Vladivostok, penumpang menyaksikan Pergunungan Ural dan “taiga Siberia yang luas dan Tasik Baikal, tasik air tawar terdalam di dunia.”
“Penumpang boleh memilih daripada kabin mewah kepada penginapan kelas tiga yang mesra bajet, setiap satu menawarkan tingkap unik ke dalam kehidupan dan budaya Rusia,” tambahnya.
Apabila perdagangan global berkembang dan kemajuan teknologi pengangkutan, Keretapi Trans-Siberia kekal sebagai asas kepada infrastruktur Eurasia — merapatkan jarak, memupuk pembangunan, dan mempertahankan legasinya sebagai salah satu pencapaian kejuruteraan terhebat di dunia. Sama ada untuk perdagangan, perjalanan atau kepentingan sejarah, Prozorov menyimpulkan, Kereta Api Trans-Siberia kekal sebagai salah satu keajaiban pengangkutan paling ikonik di dunia.
Dia menyifatkan Kereta Api Trans-Siberia sebagai bukti kepintaran dan ketahanan manusia, menghubungkan manusia, budaya, dan ekonomi.
“Sama ada untuk perdagangan, perjalanan atau kepentingan sejarah, Kereta Api Trans-Siberia kekal sebagai salah satu keajaiban pengangkutan paling ikonik di dunia.”
Pelancong asing melawat terowong perang gerila Củ Chi yang terkenal, terletak kira-kira 70 kilometer dari pusat Bandar HCM. Foto VNS
HCM CITY — Minggu Pelancongan Bandar Raya HCM keempat 2024 bermula pada Khamis lalu (5 Disember), mempamerkan pelbagai aktiviti pelancongan, sukan dan muzik, serta inisiatif promosi merentas semua daerah di bandar ini, serta Thủ Đức City, lapor Vietnam News.
Acara selama seminggu itu dianjurkan untuk meraikan ulang tahun ke-50 Pembebasan Selatan dan penyatuan semula negara pada 2025.
Bandar itu menerima lebih 4.6 juta pelawat asing dalam tempoh sepuluh bulan pertama, meningkat hampir 13 peratus tahun ke tahun, menurut Jabatan Pelancongan, lapor web berita itu.
Jelasnya lagi, menurut jabatan itu, bilangan pelancong domestik mencecah lebih 30.9 juta, meningkat 1.3 peratus tahun ke tahun, menyumbang kepada jumlah pendapatan pelancongan sebanyak VNĐ156.7 trilion, meningkat 11.9 peratus tahun ke tahun.
TEHRAN — Since the onset of the Gaza war, more than 90 hotels have shut down, leading to thousands of workers being laid off, according to Israel’s Channel 12.
Israeli media outlets reported on Saturday that the prolonged conflict has caused a significant economic downturn, particularly in the tourism and hoteling sector. Channel 12 revealed alarming data, stating that one in five hotels in the occupied territories has been closed since October 7, 2023.
The closure, amounting to 20% of hotels in occupied Palestine, has been exacerbated by the cancellation of flights by foreign airlines to and from the occupied territories, which has severely impacted various economic sectors.
According to Channel 12, thousands of families dependent on the hospitality sector are now seeking new employment opportunities. A correspondent of the TV network reported a more than 85% reduction in tourism.
Yedioth Ahronoth, a Hebrew-language newspaper, recently reported that while Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu attacked Lebanon to restore economic activities in northern territories, 80% of small businesses are at risk of closure there. Furthermore, Channel 12 revealed that unemployment in the north has increased by 20% compared to other regions since the war started.
According to the Jerusalem Post, the tourism sector of the regime has incurred losses of approximately 19.5 billion shekels ($5.25 billion) over the year since the military aggression against the Gaza Strip.
Despite claims from the Israeli regime that the costs of the wars on Gaza and Lebanon have amounted to $60 to $70 billion so far, Israeli economist Jacob Sheinin revealed that the total cost of the war could reach $120 billion, equal to 20% of the regime’s Gross Domestic Product.
Bilangan pelawat asing di bandar pantai barat daya pelancongan di Antalya mencecah 15 juta pada 2024 setakat angka Oktober, menurut wakil sektor.
Hakan Saatcioglu, presiden Persatuan Pengurus Hotel Profesional Turki (POYD), berkata pada mesyuarat bulanannya musim ini telah berjaya untuk bandar peranginan itu, kerana bilangan pelancong melonjak 7% pada asas tahunan.
“Menurut statistik lapangan terbang di rantau ini, jumlah pelawat tertinggi datang dari Rusia, iaitu 3.2 juta, diikuti Jerman dengan 2.7 juta, UK dengan 1.3 juta, dan Poland dengan 1.1 juta,” katanya.
Saatcioglu menambah bahawa jumlah pelancong di Antalya boleh mencapai sasaran 17 juta menjelang akhir tahun ini.
Tourists visit the archaeological site of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii in Pompeii, Italy, April 27, 2021. REUTERS
ROME, Nov 8 (Reuters) — The ancient Roman archaeological park of Pompeii in southern Italy said on Friday it would cap daily visitor numbers at 20,000 as a response to its surging popularity.
The change, effective from Nov. 15, comes after a peak of more than 36,000 daily entrances on a free-admission Sunday, the park said in a statement.
The park’s director, Gabriel Zuchtriegel, said that reducing human pressure on the ancient site was important for conservation and safety reasons.
The new limit follows attempts by other tourist hot spots to control the number of visitors, including Venice in Italy, with its entry fee system.
Last year, Pompeii had more than 4 million visitors, up 33.6% year-on-year, translating into a daily average of around 11,200 people, culture ministry data showed.
A spokesperson for the park said the 20,000 daily figure had been surpassed only during free-admission Sundays and on three or four normal paying days.
Entrance to Italian museums is free on the first Sunday of the month. A regular ticket to Pompeii otherwise starts from 18 euros ($19.32).
The site is an archaeological wonder, showing the remarkably preserved ruins of a once-thriving city submerged under volcanic ash, rocks and dust when Mount Vesuvius exploded in A.D. 79.
Archaeologists are still making discoveries there, including an uncommonly small house revealed last month with finely preserved frescoes of mythological scenes.
People look at the Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral, which was ravaged by a fire in 2019, as restoration works continue before its reopening, in Paris, France, October 23, 2024. REUTERS
PARIS, Oct 24 — France should charge visitors a small fee to see the Notre-Dame cathedral to help the country keep its world-famous churches and cathedrals in shape, the culture minister said.
Rachida Dati told newspaper Le Figaro in an interview published late on Wednesday that by charging only 5 euros per visitor Notre-Dame could raise 75 million euros ($81 million) a year.
In France, where secularism is part of the national identity, the state is in charge of maintaining the country’s religious sites, including 15,000 classified as historic monuments, which are usually free of charge.
Notre-Dame has been undergoing reconstruction after a fire severely damaged its roof and spire. President Emmanuel Macron had pledged to rebuild Notre-Dame within five years, drawing massive private-sector financial support.
“As a good Christian, you are supposed to contribute and give some money to the church. But that’s supposed to be from your heart, not from charging the money,” said Soraya Arango, a tourist from Mexico who visited the cathedral.
French tourist Jean-Marie Delprat said he welcomed Dati’s initiative.
“One has to understand that it is necessary to do maintenance work, and not only here. There are other churches,” Delprat said.
Dati, a former Paris district mayor, also said tourists from outside the European Union should pay more to visit non-religious landmarks.
“Is it normal that a French visitor pays the same entrance fee to the Louvre as a Brazilian or Chinese visitor?” Dati said, adding: “I want visitors from outside the EU to pay more for their entrance ticket and for this supplement to go toward financing the renovation of our national heritage.”
The minister said many of the country’s famous buildings attracting millions of tourists per year were in a degraded state and that new funding sources were needed to address mounting preservation challenges, especially in the capital.
She said the ministry was working on implementing a new pricing policy, which is likely to require coordination with various public and private entities, from January 2026.
“A country that gives up on carrying out major cultural projects gives up on being a great nation,” Dati said.
A gondola is pictured on Grand Canal in front of Rialto bridge in Venice, Italy, October 20, 2021. REUTERS
ROME — Venice is going to broaden its tourist entry fee system in 2025, almost doubling the number of days visitors will have to pay to see the lagoon city, and hiking the price for last-minute arrivals, officials said on Thursday.
In a world first, the Italian destination introduced a 5- euro charge in April for daytrippers arriving on particularly congested days, hoping the levy would help thin the crowds.
The initial scheme, which was watched closely by other global tourist hotspots, covered 29 days over a four month period. This will be lifted to 54 days next year, over the same April-July window.
The charge will stay at 5 euros ($5.40) for those booking ahead of time, but will rise to 10 euros for anyone reserving within four days of their planned trip. As before, people with hotel and guest house reservations will be exempt.
“Venice has gone from being the city most exposed to and criticised for the phenomenon of overtourism, to being the city that is reacting to this phenomenon the earliest and most proactively on the global stage,” said Simone Venturini, the city councillor responsible for tourism and social cohesion.
He told a news conference the system was still in an experimental phase. He said places popular with tourists, including Japan’s historic city Kyoto and the Spanish island Formentera, had been in touch to ask about the scheme.
Critics have said the payment system failed to slow the flow of tourists, but Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said it was too soon to judge, with precise data only available this year.
He added that Venice did not want to shoo people away, but rather encourage visitors to rethink their dates.
“We are not against it (tourism). We just believe it can somehow be spread out,” he said, warning that the city would hand out fines in 2025 for people without a pass – something it had threatened to do in 2024, but did not.
In all, 485,062 people paid for a day pass this year, raising 2.25 million euros. This covered just some of the costs of the system, Brugnaro said, and was not aimed at raking in cash for the city coffers.
Phú Quốc island has been named among the top 10 best islands in Asia by Conde Nast Traveler.
Phú Quốc island off the coast of the Mekong Delta province of Kiên Giang has been honoured among the top 10 best islands in Asia by the prestigious British travel magazine Conde Nast Traveler in its 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards.
The resort island, known for its service quality, stunning landscapes, sound cuisine, and locals’ hospitality, secured the fifth place with 91.01 points, as compared to 88.89 points in 2023.
Other destinations on the list are Koh Samui (Thailand), Langkawi (Malaysia), Boracay (the Philippines), Sri Lanka, Palawan (the Philippines), Phukhet (Thailand), Cebu & Visayan Islands (the Philippines), Bali (Indonesia), and Siargao (the Philippines).
Phú Quốc has received numerous accolades from the world tourism community this year. Three months ago, renowned travel magazine Travel + Leisure named it the second best island in the world, following Maldives. Besides, DestinAsian magazine, a prestigious travel and lifestyle magazine for travel enthusiasts around the world, recognised Phú Quốc as one of the top 10 most beautiful beach destinations in Asia.
The island has transformed itself from a hidden gem to a famous destination thanks to big investment in tourism infrastructure with an array of top-notch resorts. It has also offered visitors with various fascinating activities, including taking the world’s longest non-stop three-rope cable car line and premium art shows.
In the first nine months of this year, it welcomed more than 720,000 foreign tourist arrivals, up 56 per cent against the same time in 2023 and exceeding the annual plan by 8.6 per cent.
The island has served visitors from more than 150 countries and territories, with many direct flights from the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, and Taiwan (China). From October, new flight routes connecting the island with Hong Kong (China), Singapore and several Eastern European and Central Asian countries will be put into operation.
It expects to welcome some 100 international flights a week in the year-end tourism season, rising 25 per against the same time last year. — VNA/VNS, Oct 18, 2024
Tashkent mungkin tidak terkenal dengan seni bina dan budayanya seperti Paris, Rom atau Barcelona, malah ibu kota Uzbekistan itu adalah permata yang dipandang rendah bagi pelancong.
Dengan populasi lebih daripada tiga juta, Tashkent ialah bandar terbesar di Asia Tengah, yang dahulunya merupakan sebahagian daripada Kesatuan Soviet.
Tashkent — yang bermaksud “bandar batu” — secara sejarah penting sebagai salah satu daripada beberapa hab perdagangan (bersama-sama dengan bandar jirannya Bukhara dan Samarkand) di Jalan Sutera yang merentang dari Eropah ke China.
Pada abad ke-8, bandar ini berada di bawah pemerintahan Arab Muslim, dan seni bina Islam, disemat dengan jubin biru yang menakjubkan yang sepadan dengan langit di atas Tashkent, kekal sebagai ciri yang ketara.
Di bawah pemerintahan Soviet, Tashkent menyaksikan peningkatan dalam gaya moden bangunan berat dan brutalis yang digemari oleh USSR — lihat, sebagai contoh, bahagian luar Hotel Uzbekistan yang mengagumkan, seperti grid, ditubuhkan pada tahun 1974. Antara tahun 1960-an dan 1990-an, struktur sedemikian adalah sebahagian daripada rancangan untuk membina semula bandar itu selepas gempa bumi pada tahun 1966.
Salah satu bangunan terhebat di Tashkent ialah Teater Alisher Navoiy yang terletak di tengah-tengah, sebuah gedung opera elegan yang dibuka pada tahun 1930-an, memainkan melodi abadi maestro klasik Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev dan Verdi.
Teater Alisher Navoiy Tashkent.
Ia dinamakan sempena penyair dan wira negara yang digelar “bapa kesusasteraan Uzbekistan,” yang dilahirkan di Afghanistan zaman moden pada tahun 1400-an. Direka oleh arkitek Soviet Alexey Shchusev, rumah opera 1,500 tempat duduk itu memancarkan unsur gaya Eropah dan Oriental. Enam lobinya dinamakan sempena bandar Uzbekistan iaitu Bukhara, Khorezm, Samarkand, Fergana, Termez dan Tashkent.
Sejumlah muzium – yang dikhaskan untuk sejarah, seni, geologi dan peperangan – wujud di ibu negara; salah satu yang terbaik ialah Muzium Seni Gunaan yang sangat berhias, yang memberi penghormatan kepada kraf tangan halus pengrajin tradisional Uzbekistan, dan mempamerkan sulaman, tembikar, lukisan kecil, barang kemas dan persenjataan. Bangunan itu sendiri adalah karya seni juga, mempamerkan siling kayu terperinci yang dibuat dengan motif bunga dan geometri.
Terdapat lebih daripada 2,000 masjid di Uzbekistan dan salah satu yang tertua ialah Madrasah Kukeldash, yang diasaskan pada tahun 1500-an. Tapak yang tenang, yang telah dipulihkan dan digunakan untuk pelbagai tujuan selama ini, pada asalnya dibina untuk menganjurkan pelajaran dalam pengajian Islam dan Al-Quran (pelajaran yang masih berlaku hari ini). Ia juga menempatkan studio kaligrafi intim. Fasad utama menampilkan tulisan suci Arab dan corak gerbang, dihiasi dengan mozek yang kebanyakannya berwarna biru.
Berdekatan adalah Bazar Chorsu yang meriah dan besar, tempat penduduk tempatan pergi membeli-belah untuk mendapatkan makanan, rempah ratus, pinggan mangkuk dan pernak-pernik. Buah delima berwarna delima sangat popular, dan juga mempunyai ciri sebagai motif pada pakaian, lakonan, dengan cara sebagai simbol negara. Bazar ini terletak di bawah kubah berhias biru, yang direka pada tahun 1980.
Di dalam Bazar Chorsu Tashkent.
Jika anda sedang mencari lokasi yang lebih damai, maka Studio Seramik Rakhimovs ialah tempat yang sesuai. Syurga kreativiti ini, boleh diakses melalui temu janji sahaja, bertujuan untuk mengekalkan warisan seni seramik. Penuh dengan kepingan tembikar yang dihias, ruang yang dikendalikan oleh keluarga menceritakan kisah empat generasi tuan seramik, bermula dengan salah seorang ahli seramik abad ke-20 terkemuka Tashkent dan pemulih mozek Mukhitdin Rakhimov sehingga cucunya, Alisher Akbarovich Rakhimov, yang telah meninggalkan seni tembikar kepada anaknya, Shokhrukh.
Dan tarikan Tashkent bukan semua di permukaannya. Pastikan anda melawat Metro Tashkent, yang, pada tahun 1977, menjadi sistem kereta bawah tanah pertama di Asia Tengah. 29 stesennya menyerupai galeri seni, penuh dengan lajur yang canggih, kubah bercorak, jubin berwarna-warni dan mural dengan kisah kebanggaan negara untuk diceritakan.
Stesen Kosmonavtlar di Metro Tashkent.
Mungkin stesen yang paling terkenal dalam sistem ini ialah Kosmonavtlar (Angkasawan), dengan dalaman biru-putih yang diilhamkan oleh ‘perlumbaan angkasa,’ yang berlaku antara tahun 1950-an dan 1970-an. Dinding stesen mempamerkan pingat besar yang menggambarkan angkasawan terkemuka Kesatuan Soviet, Yuri Gagarin dan Valentina Tereshkova, masing-masing lelaki dan wanita pertama pergi ke angkasa.
Tashkent ialah lokasi yang sesuai untuk pencinta seni bina yang ingin menemui sesuatu yang tidak tipikal. Ia mempunyai landskap bangunan lama dan moden yang menarik secara visual, menunjukkan warisan budaya yang pelbagai di bandar ini, yang patut dipelihara dan diberi perhatian.
Pelancong di perkampungan Pelancongan Mỹ Khánh di Bandar Cần Thơ.
HANOI — Dengan budaya aslinya dibentuk oleh orang yang mesra dan pemurah, landskap semula jadi dan kawasan taman subur, wilayah Delta Mekong mempunyai potensi besar dan asas yang baik untuk membangunkan pelancongan berasaskan komuniti.
Wilayah ini meninggalkan kesan kuat kepada pelancong dengan rangkaian sungai dan terusan yang padat, taman subur, dan khazanah budaya rakyat yang unik.
Mengambil kesempatan daripada potensi yang ada, lokaliti serantau telah menumpukan pada pembangunan pelbagai jenis pelancongan, seperti budaya-sejarah, ekologi, resort, pertanian-luar bandar, dan berasaskan komuniti.
Banyak titik terang dalam pelancongan berasaskan komuniti telah dibentuk, membawa pengalaman menarik kepada pelancong.
Pulau kecil Son di Can Tho City ialah destinasi yang mesti dilihat oleh pelawat, di mana lebih separuh daripada isi rumah tempatan terlibat dalam inap desa, restoran, pengangkutan dan perkhidmatan jurupandu.
Pulau kecil Chim di Daerah Chau Thanh ialah model pelancongan tipikal Wilayah Tra Vinh. Ia terkenal dengan model ekopelancongan semula jadi, di mana pelancong digalakkan untuk menikmati udara segar dan bukannya menggunakan penghawa dingin.
Diperkenalkan secara rasmi pada September 2019, sektor pelancongan berasaskan komuniti mengalu-alukan 22,450 pelawat pada 2023, memperoleh jumlah pendapatan VNĐ6.75 bilion (lebih AS$274,535). Dalam enam bulan pertama tahun ini, tapak ini memberi perkhidmatan kepada lebih 12,000 pelancong domestik dan antarabangsa.
Dengan 100 peratus daripada majikan adalah tempatan, homestay Ut Trinh di daerah Long Ho wilayah Vinh Long juga merupakan model pelancongan berasaskan komuniti yang unik di rantau ini.
Pengunjung jatuh cinta dengan tapak ini kerana ruang ringkas yang dipenuhi dengan watak-watak wilayah barat daya.
Mereka boleh menikmati melodi dan lirik penuh jiwa seni Don Ca Tai Tu (Nyanyian Amatur), kemudian berjalan-jalan dan meneroka pulau kecil pada waktu malam.
Hasil usaha mengekalkan gaya hidup, adat dan identiti budaya tempatan, homestay ini telah dianugerahkan Anugerah Standard Homestay ASEAN dalam tempoh 2017-2019 oleh Forum Pelancongan ASEAN (ATF), anugerah berprestij untuk homestay dengan kualiti perkhidmatan yang tinggi dan keterhubungan tinggi dengan masyarakat.
Menurut Naib Presiden Persatuan Pelancongan Delta Mekong Lê Thanh Phong, model pelancongan berasaskan komuniti serantau di mana pengeluaran dan penanaman pertanian digabungkan dengan pembangunan pelancongan telah terbukti berkesan, menyumbang kepada pembangunan sosioekonomi tempatan, mewujudkan mata pencarian yang stabil, dan meningkatkan taraf hidup penduduk di rantau ini.
Model sedemikian telah menjadi produk pelancongan unik setiap lokaliti di rantau ini.
Pada separuh pertama 2024, wilayah Delta Mekong mengalu-alukan hampir 30 juta pelancong domestik dan antarabangsa, meningkat 11.2 peratus tahun ke tahun. Jumlah hasil daripada aktiviti pelancongan mencecah VNĐ34.8 trilion, meningkat 33 peratus berbanding tempoh yang sama pada 2023.
Jepun adalah pasaran pelancong ke Delta Mekong dengan pertumbuhan paling kukuh kerana pelancong dari negara itu menyukai destinasi yang mengekalkan identiti budaya tradisional.
Oleh itu, lokaliti dan komuniti harus memberi perhatian kepada memelihara identiti budaya, dan melindungi alam sekitar dan landskap semula jadi supaya dapat menarik lebih ramai pelancong berbelanja tinggi daripada pasaran.
DUBAI — First off, a trip to South Korea is expensive. There’s no two ways about it. A return trip from Dubai costs in excess of $2,300 unless you opt to spending two days travelling in each direction. I chose the former.
There’s a perception that if you love Japan, you’ll also love South Korea. In fact, I found that South Korea was nothing like Japan. But why should it be? The Japanese dynasty ended a long time ago. Korea feels more humble, less in-your-face.
Seoul — the capital city — is large, clean, and very Western. The Metro system is busy and frequent, but unlike the public transport networks in the West, it feels safe. People are conscious of each other’s personal space and with a population of just over 10 million they need to be. But there’s no obvious fear of crime, everyone seems to have their heads buried in their phones. (For tourists, that might be because they’re checking their Korean translation app, an absolute necessity.)
To get the real vibe of this sprawling city — which is not dissimilar to Manhattan in New York — it’s worth walking the skyscraper-lined streets.
There are coffee shops pretty much everywhere you look. And in the malls, food courts are filled with baked goods, noodles and all varieties of meat. And while the fare is OK, none of it feels especially Asian, and judging by comments made by chefs this writer knows, Korea is not a place for foodies.
There’s a wide assortment of tours on offer — including a full day at the Demilitarized Zone on the North Korean border, which costs around $100 but is worth the effort and investment just to see across to the North with the guard posts in the distance and the 100-meter-high mast carrying the North Korean flag. You can also walk along a very claustrophobic tunnel dug by the North Koreans into the south.
Back in Seoul, the Starfield Library boasts a vast collection of 50,000 books in shelves that scale two floors – a must for those seeking an Instagrammable moment. There’s also a kitsch tribute to the novelty pop hit “Gangnam Style” — if indeed that is your style.
Seoul’s Anguk area is worth spending some time in; the art galleries and cafés have a youthful buzz and the Artist Bakery offered some beautifully mellow coffee and a huge selection of moreish salted butter bread treats.
There’s much to see in South Korea outside of Seoul, of course. And a three-hour trip on the bullet train takes you to the small(ish) city of Busan in the south east of the peninsular, where things feel much less Westernized. It’s a city crammed with markets and malls, selling anything and everything.
Find a hotel overlooking the water — there’s a lot of it and the fish market offers the chance to eat pretty much anything that is found in there. Be warned though, this place might look like a budget meal awaits you, but you can easily spend in excess of $40 for some octopus and something called “spoon worm” sashimi — the latter resembling a very particular internal organ.
Gamcheon Cultural Village — an assembly of narrow lanes and small pastel-colored houses on the side of a hill — provides stunning views down the valley towards the sea; another place for Insta-moments. And the Songdo cable car is worth a ride for the equally spectacular photo-ops.
Busan also provides plenty of opportunity to sample authentic and delicious Korean street food, just don’t be put off by the aesthetics of some of the outlets.
Jeju Island.
My final stop was Jeju Island — an hour away by plane — where I spent a few days ambling about, taking in the beautiful coastline with its jagged volcanic rocks. From the many bus tours on offer, the east and south were the highlights. The Yeha Bus Tour is particularly good, with stops including Stone Park, an ancient village, and the 600-step climb up Seongsan Sunrise Peak for some stunning panoramic views of the volcanic crater and surrounding area (followed by the slow hobble back down).
South Korea is certainly a destination worth visiting, but with a necessary proviso: Make sure you have plenty of disposable income so you can create memories that don’t break the bank.
An electrical multiple unit (EMU) train moves at the Dajue Mountain Scenic Area in east China’s Jiangxi Province, July 11, 2024. A batch of 30 electrical multiple unit (EMU) trains, part of what is called the “mountain area elevated monorail sightseeing trains and track system,” were delivered to the Dajue Mountain Scenic Area in Zixi County, east China’s Jiangxi Province on Thursday. With more than a third of the 11.8-km touring route running along a cliff, the trains “hang” visitors in the air at an elevation between 850 and 1,150 meters. It is by far the longest-known cliff train route in China. (Xinhua/Guo Jiewen)
NANCHANG — Can you imagine taking a shuttle train along a cliff, instead of trekking hours to the top of a mountain, looking for a perfect camera angle? Such a heart-stirring scene will soon turn into reality.
A batch of 30 electrical multiple unit (EMU) trains, part of what is called the “mountain area elevated monorail sightseeing trains and track system,” were delivered to the Dajue Mountain Scenic Area in Zixi County, east China’s Jiangxi Province on Thursday.
An aerial drone photo taken on July 11, 2024 shows an electrical multiple unit (EMU) train moving at the Dajue Mountain Scenic Area in east China’s Jiangxi Province.
With more than a third of the 11.8-km touring route running along a cliff, the trains “hang” visitors in the air at an elevation between 850 and 1,150 meters. It is by far the longest-known cliff train route in China.
Developed by Zhuzhou CRRC Special Equipment Technology Co., Ltd., each of the trains has six carriages with a carrying capacity of 56 people.
An electrical multiple unit (EMU) train moves at the Dajue Mountain Scenic Area in east China’s Jiangxi Province, July 11, 2024.
The company’s chief engineer, Jin Junhui, said they independently developed the hinge-jointed bogie and geared rail track to improve the train’s gradeability. “An infrared anti-collision system is also installed to ensure its safety and reliability,” Jin added.
With direct flights operating from Jeddah and Riyadh — as well as Dubai — Batumi is becoming an increasingly popular destination for GCC residents.
BATUMI — Georgia’s tourism authority has said it aims to triple the amount of visitors the country receives from Saudi Arabia over the next five to 10 years.
With direct flights operating from Jeddah and Riyadh — as well as Dubai — Batumi is becoming an increasingly popular destination for GCC residents. It’s less than four hours by plane, and there’s just one hour’s time difference from the Kingdom. Safety and affordability are also major draws.
Batumi has much else to offer, including 21km of swimmable areas along its coast, stunning botanical gardens overlooking the clear blue waters of the Black Sea, and, of course, the sea itself.
Batumi Botanical Garden overlooks the clear blue waters of the Black Sea.
There is also the beautiful lush countryside no more than an hour’s drive from the city center. There, you’ll find walking trails through the tree-lined mountains and hills; valleys filled with vineyards; and rivers and streams that cut through the undergrowth. Visit the breathtaking Makhuntseti waterfall, which is located in the village of the same name.
Another must-visit just a short drive out of the city is the point at which the muddy waters of the Acharistskali meet the clear Chorokhi river that enters from Turkiye. The two rivers join, but do not appear to mix at first. There are many theories as to why: some say it’s the difference in density or minerals of the water, others believe it is due to temperature difference. What all can agree on is that it provides an extraordinary sight as the two rivers flow alongside each other undisturbed before finally blending further downstream.
Batumi’s surrounding countryside, then, is the perfect place to unwind, but also to get involved in outdoor pursuits such as mountaineering. For the less energetic, there’s always bird watching — hundreds of thousands of migratory species suddenly appear around Batumi every September.
But you don’t have to leave the city to enjoy some nature: Batumi is home to a number of landscaped parks and gardens, including the Seaside Park, which runs alongside the boardwalk for 7km, and is filled with plants, trees and sculptures.
The Kinetic Statue of Ali and Nino stands in Batumi.
There’s also the 108-hectare Batumi Botanical Garden — one of the largest in the former Soviet Union — in Mtsvane Kontskhi, around 9km from the city center. As well as the carefully thought-out gardens, there is also a zipline that runs in front of the cliff face – the greenery on your left and the sea to the right — and way down below.
A stroll along the boardwalk provides views of the mountains, the sea and the modern towers that decorate parts of Batumi’s coast, as well as the mesmerizing kinetic statue of Ali and Nino — the creation of Tamara Kvesitadze which tells the story of a Muslim and Christian who fell in love.
In the same area are various boats offering short trips to sea to get a wider view of the city’s impressive coastline.
Away from the water, the city streets are perfect for wandering — the older, smaller, architecture offering a more-relaxing environment along the tree-lined historic areas which open into various squares where you can relax at one of the many cafés and restaurants. You might even catch a display of traditional Georgian dancing, where the men leap impressively into the air, while the women seem to glide effortlessly around.
Batumi’s Old Town boasts various architectural styles.
As for the food… be warned, Georgians love carbs. But it’s worth indulging in a Khachapuri Adjaruli — a boat-shaped white bread dough, covered in a heavy white cheese, with a raw egg on top.
There’s also the traditional Khinkali — a dumpling filled with meat and gravy. Eating this is a skill in itself — you bite a small hole in the dumpling and take a slurp of gravy before savoring the meat. But do wait for it to cool before trying this!
Stews are heavily featured, and if these don’t float your boat, then the grilled meat is a great option, alongside a bowl of Georgia’s finest tomato and cucumber salad — especially welcome after a few hours tramping through the winding streets or following a leisurely stroll through the mountains.
Whether you plan to make Batumi part of a wider visit to Georgia, or simply to spend a week or long weekend here, it’s a great location to relax, explore, and — if 95 percent of Saudis surveyed are to be believed — come back to.
Jebel Ali Beach is to be set within a wildlife sanctuary and will feature a mangrove ecosystem
Dubai on Sunday unveiled plans for the construction of the emirate’s longest public beach in Jebel Ali, which is set to serve as a major eco-tourism destination.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, approved the master plan for the Jebel Ali Beach Development Project, which will stretch 6.6km and will allow visitors to watch turtles in their natural habitat.
It is part of a wider strategy to revamp Dubai’s public beaches and increase their size by 400 per cent under the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
“Our focus is on creating spaces rich in beaches, open areas, and recreational greens,” Sheikh Hamdan said.
“The ultimate goal is to enhance the well-being of the city’s people, create a healthy environment for all and make Dubai the world’s best place to live in.”
Dubai Media Office said the beach, to be built in an existing wildlife sanctuary, will be a “distinctive recreational destination that places a high priority on environmental preservation and the protection of local ecosystems and
wildlife”.
Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed has approved plans to develop Jebel Ali Beach as part of drive to create the world’s best public beaches in the emirate. All Photos: Dubai Media office
Pioneering project
Mattar Al Tayer, Dubai’s commissioner general for infrastructure, urban planning and well-being, said the tourist spot would emphasise championing nature.
“An open beach for the public and a site of global environmental importance, the Jebel Ali Beach Development Project is the first of its kind in the UAE,” he said.
“It is located within the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary, listed under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance.
“The beach’s development will ensure the preservation and enhancement of ecosystems and wildlife at the site, including enhancing turtle habitats and planting mangrove trees, which will contribute to blue carbon footprint growth and provide an open beach with minimal impact on ecological and biological systems.
“Jebel Ali Beach will be the longest public open beach in Dubai, stretching 6.6km and covering an area of 330 hectares.”
Major eco-tourism attraction
Under the large-scale project, a 5km sandy beach is to be developed by Nakheel and a 1.6km mangrove beach is to be developed by Dubai Municipality.
“The plan includes a 2km open swimmable beach, a 2.5km diving sports area, a walkway with viewing platforms to blend with the surrounding environment, and recreational and service areas for beachgoers of all ages, including kids play zones, sports and marine activity areas,” said Mr Al Tayer.
The beach will be linked to a two-lane road in each direction and will feature parking for 1,000 vehicles, 80 bicycle racks, a cycling track, and a 5km running track.
One beach spanning three locations
The beach is to be divided into three locations.
The Pearl, on the right side near the entrance of Palm Jebel Ali, will be the hub for beach and recreational activities, including a beach club with a private stretch of beach, children’s play zones and several restaurants, cafes and shops. A floating restaurant will be a centrepiece of the development.
The second site, called the Sanctuary, will be a haven for turtles and other natural habitat.
“This area places the highest priority on environmental conservation, housing recreational and sports activities that enhance safe environmental exploration,” Al Tayer said.
The third site will be the Nest, set within the mangrove area, which will include an environmental centre for studies and awareness of biodiversity, turtle rehabilitation and care programmes. It will also allow visitors to learn about and help preserve the coastal ecosystem.
“The architectural design of the buildings and facilities of the Jebel Ali Beach Development Project is inspired by a mix of natural geometry, drawing from shapes found in marine nature such as coral and turtle shells, as well as the Boho Style, which uses elements and materials available locally,” said Mr Al Tayer.
It is part of a wider strategy to revamp Dubai’s public beaches and increase their size by 400 per cent under the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
Divers enjoying the sight of corals and marine life in the coastal city of Hurghada on the Red sea.
The global travel website Tripadvisor named the Egyptian Red Sea coastal city of Hurghada as the 3rd best nature destination in the world.
The Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel. It’s awarded to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over 12 months.
With over eight million listings, less than one percent attain this milestone, Tripadvisor said.
Hurghada is credited with having one of the best snorkelling and diving spots in the world, thanks to its stunning beaches and coral reefs that tourists can enjoy while visiting the city.
The website highlighted water activities such as windsurfing and famous spots like Giftun Islands and the Eastern Desert that travellers can enjoy in Hurghada.
Hurghada came next after Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, and Halong Bay, an island in Vietnam.
