Jetsettersblog

Tourist Guide Booking Tool

Explore Egypt with a tourist guide

Hailed as “the travel service innovation of 2008″ by the Irish Times

OurExplorer facilitates with ease the on-line booking of professional tourist guides from all over the world. Save time and money while you explore your next destination with the wisdom and guidance of a local.

Have you ever thought whilst visiting a new destination, “I wonder where the locals eat, drink, fish, ski, shop or party?” OurExplorer suggests its time for us all to stop simply sight-seeing but rather start exploring with the local wisdom and knowledge of a professional tourist guide.

OurExplorer has launched a new travel concept in BETA, a user-rated tourist guide booking tool created exclusively for your personal travel needs.

As the global financial crisis still looms, OurExplorer can save travellers hassle and money by getting the maximum out of their overseas adventure with a private tourist guide.

Enjoy the insight of the best shopping and value for money dining experiences in a city, directly from a native. Some tourist guides are currently offering special discounted rates and free tour hours on OurExplorer.

OurExplorer promote professional tourist guides only. Pre booking, the traveller can view their experience, license, past client testimonials or even chat with the tourist guide.

OurExplorer launched in July 2008 with now over 400 private tourist guides covering more than 80 countries worldwide — making it the biggest professional tourist guide directory in the world and growing all the time!

Make your trip overseas unique and full of adventure.
You book your flight and accommodation on-line, why not your tourist guide?
Get a tourist guide for land (city guide, mountain guide) or sea (diving guide).

Purpose of OurExplorer:

1. To help tourist guides increase their income thereby benefiting the local community - especially those in poor countries e.g. Kenya, Mexico and Cambodia.

2. Increase cross cultural awareness and acceptance via direct connection with locals e.g. people in USA get the chance to understand those in Pakistan and Israel

“Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry but it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends,” said Mahatma Gandhi.

“Less than 9.7% of overseas travelers interact in meaningful discussion with a local,” according to the Tourism 2020 Vision reported by WTO.

The IMF concluded in March 2007 that “direct support of independent local businesses when you travel has the most positive results on local economy”.

“Rather than just donating money, OurExplorer is a sustainable long term solution to help low income families globally,” said David Cunningham (Chief Exploring Officer).

Grosvenor House – Ramadan specials

Why not try out Grosvenor Houses’ popular international restaurant Sloane’s, this Ramadan. Sloane’s will be open 24 hours, serving a traditional Iftar buffet from its delightful open plan kitchen at 6.00pm (sunset) until 8.00pm, priced at Dhs.195 per person. Regular dining operations will resume from 8pm onwards.

Ottomans

This Ramadan, sit back, relax and take in the warm and authentic surroundings of Ottomans. Visitors to the exquisite Turkish restaurant will be treated to a delicious Iftar menu (at sunset) whilst enjoying the mellow tones of the oudh and tabla. Ottomans will be open only for group Iftar bookings throughout the holy month of Ramadan. Regular dining operations will resume from 8pm – 1am, Tuesday to Sunday.

To enjoy any of these fantastic offers please call Grosvenor House on 04-399 8888 for reservations.

Ramadan at The Monarch Dubai

The holy month of Ramadan marks a period of reflection for the world’s Muslim population. This is also the time to spend quality time with family and friends, particularly during the sumptuous Iftars after the breaking of the fast each day.

Beginning with the sighting of the new moon The Monarch Dubai has special Iftar themes & culinary delights for its patrons for the entire month of Ramadan.

Set in the royal ambiance of The Monarch Dubai, guests will indulge in the delicacies that have been prepared to commemorate this very special month

Mizaan, the hotel’s all day dining restaurant will host an elaborate Iftar buffet with classic and contemporary Arab dishes, sweets and juices priced at AED 165 per person.

Werner Pichler, Director of Sales & Marketing at The Monarch Dubai, looks forward to welcoming guests during Ramadan and says: “Our promotions during the month of Ramadan provide guests with an ideal opportunity to enjoy the spirit of Ramadan with family and friends in a peaceful setting”.

“Ramadan under the Stars” can be experienced in its full glory at The Monarch Dubai’s Quantum Pool Lounge, where after dinner shisha, drinks and a selective a la carte menu will be served.

The tranquil pool side ambiance of the Quantum Pool Lounge sets the character and mood for the perfect evening to relax by the pool with family and friends from Iftar to Souhour during this holy month.

For larger groups of a minimum 30 people, the exclusive Al Massa ballroom, or Nur Al Ain meeting room overlooking the foyer, offer Iftaar menus starting from AED 165 to AED 195 per person.

This includes a sumptuous Iftar Buffet with pre-set cold mezze, traditional Arabian delights, Iftaar juices and soft drinks, and dates to break the fast.

For an additional cost, live cooking and Ouzi is available.

Special arrangements have been made for guests to offer prayers during Iftar and other times with prayer rooms in close vicinity to both venues.

About Refad Hotels & Resorts

Refad Hotels & Resorts is a wholly owned subsidiary of Efad Holding, a major Kuwait conglomerate. Refad Hotels & Resorts’ head office, located in the State of Kuwait, provides hotel management, development, ownership investment as well as financing worldwide for a variety of innovative hospitality products. Refad Hotels and Resorts own and operate a range of hospitality solutions across the region as well as overseas. It has five international properties in operation and a further six under construction. As an emerging international hospitality group, the company plans to acquire 30 new properties over the next five years.

Refad’s unifying aim is the provision of exceptional hospitality services to corporate individuals and groups, ensuring that the Refad brands are recognized globally as being synonymous with absolute excellence.

For further information: www.refad.com

Ramadan at The Park

Enjoy a feast of Ramadan specialties in a stunning waterfront location

Park Hyatt Dubai presents “Ramadan Nights at The Terrace”, an opportunity to share with family and friends a variety of gourmet delights as you relax adjacent to the beautiful waterfront. A full Ramadan menu is available, with cold and hot mezze, including such traditional favourites as Mohamra, Moutabel Badenjan, Fatoush, Loubia and Warek Enab, and a variety of freshly baked Saj bread (Zaatar and Olive Oil, Akawi and Haloumi Cheese, and Minced Meat with Pine Nuts and Labneh, Tomato, Olives and Rucola), as well as Shawarma and Falafel sandwiches. For main courses, select from the Iranian Mixed Grill, the Grilled Seafood Platter or the Grilled Lamb Chops with Oregano, Tomatoes and Peppers.

Also available is an extensive dessert menu, including Um Ali, dates and seasonal fresh and dried fruit, to name a few, a beverage list featuring all the Ramadan favourites, such as Laban, Kamar Eddine, Tamr Hindi and Jellab, as well as mocktails made especially for the occasion, such as the Simple Colada, the Merry Mary, and iced coffees and teas in a multitude of flavours. “Ramadan Nights at The Terrace” also offers a large variety of shisha flavours for guests to choose from, priced between Dhs45 and Dhs55, as they relax and listen to the Arabic lounge-style music.

An option of two Sohour Set menus will also be available, priced at Dhs180 and Dhs200, including cold mezze, hot cuisine such as Shawarma and Mixed Grills, a selection of sweets and an assortment of soft beverages.

“Ramadan Nights at The Terrace” overlooking the picturesque Dubai Creek will operate from 8:00pm to 3:00am. A minimum consumption charge per person will apply.

For reservations, please call 04 317 2222, or the hotel on 04 602 1234 and ask to speak to Alok Kukreti.

Arabic sweets and cookies will be on offer from Park Hyatt Dubai’s chic pastry boutique, Pistache.

“RAMADAN TENT BY THE MARINA”

Park Hyatt Dubai presents its Ramadan Tent, over looking the marina at The Thai Kitchen Balcony. A specially constructed see through and air conditioned tent will allow guests to relax and enjoy their Ramadan and Sohour cuisine. A lounge style set up, to include rich colour sofas, cushions, candles, games and shisha ensures a unique experience.

“Ramadan Tent by the Marina” overlooking the picturesque Dubai Creek will operate from 8:00pm to 3:00am.

A minimum consumption charge per person will apply.

For reservations, please call 04 317 2222, or the hotel on 04 602 1234 and ask to speak to Alok Kukreti.

“RAMADAN NIGHTS AT TRAITEUR BALCONY”

If you are looking for a unique area to enjoy spending time with family, friends and colleagues, or simply to collect yourself and unwind, what more peaceful and tranquil setting could there be than the Traiteur bar outside terrace, overlooking the beautiful marina and skyline of Dubai? Here, a Ramadan seating area is recommended for groups of up to 30 people. An option of two Sohour Set menus will be available, priced at Dhs180 and Dhs200, including cold mezze, hot dishes, such as Shawarma and Mixed Grills, a selection of sweets and seasonal fresh fruit, and an assortment of soft drinks.

“Ramadan Nights at Traiteur Balcony” will operate from 8:00pm to 3:00am.

For reservations, please call
04 317 2222, or the hotel on 04 602 1234 and ask to speak to Alok Kukreti.

IFTAR ARABESQUE
Enjoy an Iftar buffet in a stylish setting, with spectacular views overlooking Dubai Creek.

Café Arabesque celebrates the culinary delights of the Levantine region, and offers a truly rich Arabic Iftar buffet featuring more than 40 different kinds of cold and hot mezze, (including Kibdet Dajaj, Roubian Bil Salsa, Lesanat, Ferri and Jawaneh Dajaj), two soups, (Freekieh and Shorbet Adas), Ouzy served with Oriental rice, rotisserie dishes, carvings, kebabs and more than 10 different main courses (including Shish Barak, Baziella Bil Lahem, Sapandh Bil Lahmeh, Kousa Ablama and Daoud Basha), all baked in a wood-fired oven and accompanied by the finest hot Arabic bread. Home-made Syrian Baklawa, and a large selection of dates, fruit and international desserts provide a sweet ending to this special time of the day.

Iftar Arabesque is available daily from sundown to 7:30pm and is priced at Dhs170 per person, including soft drinks, or Dhs 85 for children aged six and up, including drinks. A choice of five Iftar menus will be offered on a rotational basis. For reservations, please call 04 317 2222.

GROUP AND CORPORATE IFTAR AND SOHOUR

Share Iftar and Sohour with family, friends and colleagues, with menus available in a variety of stunning locations. For group bookings, delight in the choice of two Iftar banquet menus, priced at Dhs170 or Dhs195 per person, including soft drinks. Hot and cold mezze, Ouzy, a variety of more than 10 different main courses and desserts can be enjoyed. Choose from a variety of locations to host your dinner, from the ballroom (for both large and small groups) to Café Arabesque or the Traiteur Bar outside terrace overlooking the Creek. For reservations, please call Karim or Karen in the Banquet Department on 04 602 1930/1618.

PARK HYATT DUBAI RESTAURANTS AND BAR RAMADAN SCHEDULE:

Café Arabesque: Open all day. Breakfast is served from 6:30am to 11:30am; lunch from 12:30pm to 4:00pm; Iftar from sundown to 7:30pm; and dinner from 7:30pm to 12:00 midnight. The Ramadan menu is priced at Dhs170 per person; no alcohol will be served.

Ramadan Nights at The Terrace”: Open-air terrace. Open from 8:00pm to 3:00am; no alcohol will be served.

The Lounge: Open from sundown to sunrise, serving a Ramadan menu; no alcohol will be served.

Pistache: Open from sundown to 3:00am.

Traiteur: Open from 7:00pm to 12:00 midnight serving the regular menu and all beverages; closed for lunch and Friday Brunch.

Traiteur Bar: Will serve all the hotel’s licensed beverages throughout Ramadan from 7:00pm to 2:00am.

Traiteur Bar Outside Terrace: Open from 8.00pm to 3.00am, serving Sohour Set menus for groups.

The Thai Kitchen: Open from 7:00pm to 12:00 midnight, serving the regular menu and all beverages; closed for lunch and Friday Brunch.

About Park Hyatt Dubai

Park Hyatt Dubai is a luxury waterfront retreat adjacent to the world-famous Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club. Situated just minutes from the city centre, world-class shopping and prime business districts, Park Hyatt Dubai is a haven of tranquil elegance in the vibrant city of Dubai.

Grand Deals - Ramadan 2008

For a real taste of Arabia, experience a true Ramadan atmosphere in the luxury and opulence of Grand Hyatt Dubai’s Ramadan tent. The popular Laylati Café will again be a highlight of Grand Hyatt Dubai’s Ramadan celebrations, with a beautifully ornate Ramadan tent located on the events lawn. In addition to that, at sunset on each day of Ramadan, Grand Iftar will be hosted in the magnificent Baniyas Ballroom.

LAYLATI CAFÉ

For a real taste of Arabia, experience a true Ramadan atmosphere in the luxury and opulence of Grand Hyatt Dubai’s Ramadan tent.

The popular Laylati Café will again be a highlight of Grand Hyatt Dubai’s Ramadan celebrations, with a beautifully ornate Ramadan tent located on the events lawn.

Choose to sit at a table or recline in the lounge area while enjoying an à la carte menu and, of course, a wide selection of shisha. Choose from traditional Arabic cuisine, snacks, special Arabic sweets, fresh juices and Ramadan drinks, all served within the spectacularly themed and air-conditioned tent.

Tuesday 2nd September to Wednesday 1st October (*)
Open from 8:00pm to 3:00am daily

A cover charge of AED30 on weekdays and AED40 on weekends applies.

For further information, please contact Restaurant Reservations on 04 317 2222.

(*) Dates may vary depending on the sighting of the moon.

GRAND IFTAR

At sunset on each day of Ramadan, Grand Iftar will be hosted in the magnificent Baniyas Ballroom.

With a huge menu selection, including a host of pan-Arabic Ramadan cuisine, fruit juices, soft drinks and the all-important dates,

Grand Hyatt Dubai will provide you with a truly authentic and unforgettable Iftar experience. Ramadan Kareem!

Tuesday 2nd September to Wednesday 1st October (*)

Sunset (approx. 6:00pm) to 8:00pm daily

AED150 per person

Children between the ages of 6 and 12 receive a 50% discount; children under 6 eat for free.

For further information, please contact

Restaurant Reservations on 04 317 2222.

(*) Dates may vary depending on the sighting of the moon.

Ramadan Jewels of Arabia at Amara, Park Hyatt Dubai

Amara will be open until 12:00 midnight every Friday and Saturday during Ramadan.

Ramadan is a period for contemplation and spending time with family and friends, to collect oneself and unwind, and what more peaceful and tranquil setting to do this than Amara, Park Hyatt Dubai? A magnificent tribute to the ancient Moorish palaces, the white exterior and royal blue domes of Amara offer a welcoming entrance into this private and secluded spa, where exotic rituals have been created to stimulate the senses, soothe and rejuvenate.

The Amara concierge will customise your experience using the ancient healing philosophies of Diamond, Emerald, Ruby and Sapphire. These precious jewels, each with its own physical and spiritual benefits, combined with the finest products, Arabian teas and authentic delicacies, ensure a quality and personalised experience.

Alternatively, you can enjoy one of our unique Ramadan Packages and, as Ramadan is the time to relax and take more time for yourself, complete your spa experience either poolside or in the Amara lounge.

Package 1: Diamond Clarity - Dhs 680 (105 minutes)

Inhalations of specially selected essential oils and a stimulating body brushing prelude an aroma-pressure back massage. A recharging gel body masque rich in minerals and plant essences is applied, while an acupressure foot and scalp massage with frankincense, and an eye massage with chilled lava stones invigorates … also perfect for pre- or post-travel.

•Spa cuisine - enjoy a complimentary selection of spa cuisine from the menu

•The 25 m swimming pool with four whirlpools, a fragranced steam room and a gymnasium are also at your disposal.

Package 2: Ruby Indulgence – Dhs 680 (105 minutes)

Bursting with sensations, Carita’s signature exfoliation prepares you for a luxury mineral body masque with soft cotton wrappings. A massage of the hands and feet soothes as the masque works its magic, while a hot stone full-body massage with mineral-enriched emulsion will leave your skin radiantly smooth and velvety.

•Spa cuisine - enjoy a complimentary selection of spa cuisine from the menu

•The 25 m swimming pool with four whirlpools, a fragranced steam room and gymnasium are also at your disposal.

About Amara

Set in idyllic surroundings on the north bank of the Dubai Creek, Amara, the day spa at Park Hyatt Dubai, is an exquisite sanctuary of luxury and tranquillity. Amara’s treatments promise to take you on a journey of the senses, with the finest spa rituals and products available.

Amara features eight spacious luxury suites, each with its own private outdoor terrace, lounge area, and indoor and outdoor rain showers. Amara also offers a stunning 25 m swimming pool featuring a series of palm islands. At Amara, privacy is of the essence and the spa has its own enclosed private entrance, giving guests access without having to go through the hotel.

A unique sense of place is provided by the exquisitely designed Park Hyatt Dubai hotel and its breathtaking views of the Dubai Creek. With its adjoining private courtyards and cascading water features, Amara is in perfect harmony with the sophisticated retreat atmosphere of the hotel.

About Park Hyatt Dubai

Park Hyatt Dubai is a luxury waterfront retreat adjacent to the world-famous Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club. Located just minutes from the city centre, world-class shopping and prime business districts, Park Hyatt Dubai is a haven of tranquil elegance in the vibrant city of Dubai.

Dubai World Africa Calls On Culinary Aficionados

About Dubai World

Ensuring the most exacting of world-class standards in Dubai World Africa’s premier South African game reserves — Shamwari Game Reserve, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, Jock Safari Lodge and Nkomazi Game Reserve — the South African Chefs Academy has been appointed to add its special ingredients to the food and beverage services.

Under the matchless guidance of renowned chef mentors Garth Stroebel and Paul Hartman, the South African Chefs Academy will ensure that the highest quality culinary experience is achieved, starting at the very inception of the process - the kitchen.

“We are proud to have Garth, Paul and the academy on our team. Their wealth of experience and unsurpassed dedication to their profession will refine and enhance our already superior offering,” says Luis Pinheiro, Dubai World Africa Director of Hospitality Operations.

Garth Stroebel explains that, as tourism increases in South Africa, so does the expectation of world-class standards. These can only be truly achieved if all the basics are in place, from efficient kitchen designs to the best trained staff. “Dubai World Africa owns wonderful exclusive properties and it is exciting to be a part of its drive to ensure that the highest criteria are applied in their reserves,” notes Stroebel.

The South African Chefs Academy provides aspirant chefs with real skills using progressive, modern and relevant techniques built on a sound foundation of the classic principles.

Air Arabia early check-in

• New procedure will provide added convenience for passengers

• Dedicated counter at Sharjah hub for passengers who use service

• Passengers will benefit from early seat assignment

Sharjah, : Air Arabia, the first and largest low-cost carrier in the Middle East and North Africa, today introduced a new early check-in procedure for all of its passengers. The procedure allows passengers to check-in up to 24 hours before their flight, and make use of dedicated counters specifically set up for them, which also offer early seat assignment.

“Convenience for our passengers is one of our strengths,” said AK Nizar, Head of Commercial Department, Air Arabia. “With the introduction of these new early check-in procedures, we give passengers the option to have their boarding expedited immediately if they register early. All of our passengers will benefit from having this option, as it will make the boarding of our flights more efficient than ever.”

The dedicated counters and early check-in procedure are available from flights taking off from Air Arabia’s primary hub at Sharjah International Airport only. Standard timings for early check-in will commence from 10:00-19:00 daily. Dedicated counters for early check-in passengers will be at counters #41 and #42.

Passengers who make use of this check-in procedure must be sure to arrive at the check-in counter at least 60 minutes before flight time. There is no additional charge for making use early check-in.

The Red Sea Jazz Festival

Eilat will once again host the Red Sea Jazz Festival, August 25th – 28th this year. Attracting over 40, 000 people to the four open air venues, over 30 concerts are held over 4 days. The stunning backdrop of mountains and sea creates a beautiful setting that no other jazz festival can provide.

The public experience the widest spectrum of jazz from New Orleans to contemporary, including Latin and World music. As well as an international line up of guest artists, the festival also headlines top Israeli groups. The festival is active in the field of jazz education and promotes original jazz compositions and youth jazz bands. Clinics and jam sessions are also held with guest artists every night.

Israel’s 60th anniversary has drawn in more top performers than ever and this year is not to be missed. Any UK jazz aficionado would immediately think of Incognito as the major representative brand of the sound of sophisticated, uplifting UK soul jazz. This year’s festival will be swept away on a sea of hot soul jazz melodies led by guitarist-songwriter, ‘Bluey’, and vocalist Joy Rose.

Also joining the line up will be; Randy Brecker / Bill Evans & Soulbop; Kurt Elling Trio; Carla Bley & The Lost Chords; Mike Stern featuring Richard Bona, Bob Malach & Lionel Cordew; Ben Riley& The Monk Legacy Septet; Oregon; Terry Lyne Carrington/Geri Allen/Esperanza Spalding/Tineke Postma Quartet; The John Fedchock NY Sexstet; Omar Sosa Afreecanos Band; Edmar Castaneda Trio featuring Joe Locke; The Zbigniew Namyslowski 6tet; The Avishai Cohen Trio amongst others.

Information Centre and tickets
Castel: 00972-1-599-525354
00972 3604 5000
rstourism@eilat.muni.il
http://www.redseajazzeilat.com

-Ends-

Dubai Desert Palm

Set in the graceful, manicured surrounds of a private polo estate, Desert Palm is surpassing expectations and challenging the stereotype of the towering city by introducing signature Per Aquum chic to Dubai. Elegant, understated, verdant, boutique, low-rise – Desert Palm basks easily in the desert landscape to provide a refreshing, avant-garde contrast to the conventional flamboyance of the city’s latest skyscraping hotels.

Officially opened on 28th March 2008 by Her Royal Highness Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, Wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE, Ruler of Dubai, the retreat features 24 naturally modern guest rooms and villas, a signature LIME spa, two restaurants, bar, gourmet deli-café, infinity pool, landscaped gardens and spectacular views of the Dubai skyline. The property is located on a private estate, originally created as a haven for owner Ali Albwardy’s personal enjoyment of polo, which features four polo fields, riding school, stabling facilities for over 300 horses and 90 residential villas.

With interior design by IMA Interiors of Singapore, Desert Palm’s guest accommodation includes 13 beautifully appointed Palm Suites with views over the main polo fields and estate grounds; four one-bedroom Pool Villas, each with private pool; six three-bedroom Pool Residences, also with private pools; and a contemporary inspired Presidential Suite, Villa Layali, again complete with its own private pool.

Desert Palm offers outstanding culinary delights, with fresh produce flown in from around the world. Signature restaurant Rare showcases succulent cuts of the finest steak and game.

In Red, guests can enjoy meticulously sourced wines from the Old and New Worlds, while Epicure offers a deli café experience with international all day dining delicacies and refreshing drinks. Here, guests can find fresh breads, fine cheeses, prime cuts of meat, varieties of olives and oils, and even international newspapers and magazines.

LIME complements the Desert Palm experience, offering the first Halal certified spa products which are also 100% organic. Colour therapy is featured throughout with signature rituals designed to nurture, heal and restore. At LIME guests are encouraged to try something new; treatments are personalised to the individual with a strong emphasis on an integrated wellness approach, incorporating healing spa therapies, beauty services and relaxation. Special therapies have been designed for horse riders and polo players. There is also an extensive wet area, ‘Sublime’, featuring steam, sauna, colour therapy showers, ice plunge and heated beds.

With its idyllic location and facilities just minutes from the centre of Dubai and its airport, Desert Palm is a perfect choice for product launches, conference and incentive groups, special occasions and major events.

Desert Palm is the latest opening from award-winning management company Per Aquum – operators of such iconic properties as Huvafen Fushi in the Maldives and The Fortress in Sri Lanka. Desert Palm complements the existing collection and works both as a twin centre option with properties in the Maldives or Sri Lanka and as a destination on its own.