Fly, Play & Stay
FLY, PLAY & STAY
Play Golf and Explore Doha for 3 Days, 2 Nights
All Inclusive of Golf and Doha City Tour Package…
Rates Starting from QAR 3030*
Inclusions:
- Roundtrip Airfares (Kuwait – Doha – Kuwait) thru Kuwait Airways
- 2-nights Hotel Stay with Breakfast in Oryx Rotana Hotel – Doha
- Transfers
- 18-Hole Championship Course in Education City Golf Club
- Inclusions for Half Day Desert Safari Tour
- 4X4 WD Cars the capacity of 6 person
- Professional and Experienced Desert Safari drivers
- Short Desert Camp visit for refreshment & use of Wash Room facility
- Safety Equipments available in the car
- Music System will be available in the SUV
- Inclusions for Doha Express Sightseeing/ City Tour
- Transportation with Experienced Driver
- English speaking informative Guide
- Water & Soft Drinks
- Insurance
Exclusions:
- Personal Expenses
- Lunch/Dinner
- Visa, if Applicable
- Exclusions for Half Desert Safari Tour
- Camel Ride
- Tour Guide
- Exclusions for Doha Express Sightseeing/ City Tour
- Museum Entrance Fees
- Any applicable additional charges e.g meals, tips, etc.
Sales Validity Until 30 Nov 2019
Travel Validity Until 15 Dec 2019
*Rates are Subject to Date and Room Availability
*Price can change without prior notice
*Terms & Conditions Apply
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Doha / Half Day Desert Safari
Arrive in Hamad International Airport, meet and greet by an Airport Representative and transfer at the Oryx Rotana Hotel, Early Check In and Rest.
Half Day Desert Safari
Tour Timings: 14:00 – 18:00
(We recommend afternoon tours on Fridays)
A trip to Qatar would be a waste without this incredibly adventurous journey into the endless heart of the desert. For those who have limited time, the Half Day trip is great for you. Experience the rapture of an exhilarating roller coaster ride as our luxury 4×4 vehicles drive you across the tranquil sand dunes leaving you captivated. En route we stop for a breathtaking view of the Inland Sea, which is the natural border to Saudi Arabia giving you an opportunity to enjoy the serenity of the timeless desert. Quick and leaving you breathless!
ITINERARY
- Pickup & drop of via 4x4wd car transportation from your location in Doha
- Sand dune bashing drive over the sand dunes roller coaster ride experience.
- Sightseeing visit to the inland sea the natural border of Qatar & Saudi Arabia.
- Short Desert Camp visit for refreshment (Soft drinks, water, Tea & Coffee) & use of Bathroom facility
Drop off at the Hotel
Free time for Leisure
Day 2: Play Golf at the Education City Golf Club
Breakfast
Golf Timings: 09:00
Pick up from the hotel to Education City Golf Club in Education City – Doha where you will play 18- Hole Championship Course. The course is immaculately groomed and conditioned, designed in line with the USGA standards with all green areas of the golf course being USGA Specifications. The 72 Par course will put your skills to the ultimate test as it takes you through the desert and wadi terrain.
After the Golf Course Play, Pick Up & Drop off at the Hotel.
Free time for Leisure
Day 3: SightSeeing/City Tour Timings:
Tour Timings: 0900 – 13:00
An excellent introduction to Doha, this trip combines fabulous scenery with plenty of fascinating views, historic sites and highlights of the rich culture. Discover The Pearl, an extraordinary artificial residential and business island created in a shape of an oyster which has set the standard for luxury. We will take you to Katara, the stunning cultural village in a beautiful beachfront at the heart of Doha with an amphitheater, an opera, art galleries and restaurants from various countries and cultures. You are welcome to be at the Equestrian Club which gives home to the royal race horses & international priceless spring horses. As you hear, we will proceed to the famous Museum of Islamic Arts, the iconic museum, designed by I.M. Pei that hosts pieces covering over a thousand years of Islamic Arts. Conclude at Souk Waqif, the authentic traditional market with its fascinating maze of alleyways and typical atmosphere retaining its old- character, filled with cafes, restaurants and hundreds of tiny shops. It’s a quick glance at a city you will always remember.
ITINERARY
- Pick up at the Hotel
- Sightseeing at The Pearl – Qatar’s oyster shape island
- Visiting Katara, the stunning cultural village in a beautiful beachfront
- The Equestrian Club visit
- Comprehensive tour at the iconic Museum of Islamic Arts
- Get lost and travel time at the Souk Waqif, the authentic traditional market
Drop off at the Hotel
Free time for Leisure Until 17:00
Check Out at the Hotel.
Pick Up at the Hotel & Drop Off in the Airport
| Airline | Flight Code | From | To | Departure | Arrival |
| Kuwait Airways | KU 619 | Kuwait | Doha | 0405 | 0540 |
| Kuwait Airways | KU 620 | Doha | Kuwait | 2025 | 2200 |
Why You Should Go On A Cruise
1. Cruises Offer Great Value
Cruises offer great value for your vacation budget because the fares include nearly everything you’ll need for a fantastic trip: food, accommodations, daytime and evening entertainment and transportation between destinations. We regularly see fares on mainstream cruise lines for under $100 per person, per night, which is astonishingly cheaper than you’d spend on land for a hotel, dinner and a show. On some lines, kids even sail free or at discounted rates when sharing a cabin with two adults. Looking for luxury? Upscale lines are even more inclusive, with alcohol and soft drinks, gratuities, shore tours, onboard spending credits, and even flights bundled into the fare.
2. See Multiple Destinations, Unpack Only Once
On a cruise, you unpack once and your floating hotel takes you from city to city or from island to island and there’s no need to mess with train or ferry schedules, or lug your suitcase along cobblestone streets. Every morning, you’ll wake up in a new place. Can’t decide between St. Lucia and Barbados, or Italy or Spain? Why choose? Pick an itinerary that visits all the cities on your wish list.
3. Cruise Ships Are Family Friendly
From tots to teens, grandparents to grandkids, cruises are fun for all ages. If you’re struggling to find a vacation that your 5, 10, or 15-year old will all love – and that has adult activities, too – ships now have extensive kids’ facilities, split by age. Teens have their own cool hangouts, far away from the play areas for the little ones (and certainly a nice distance from parent-friendly pools and bars). How can you not love a trip that features video games and swimming pools, while offering time for families to be together at dinner or on shoreside excursions? And parents can even sneak in a romantic dinner alone, by taking advantage of late-night hours in the kids’ club.
4. Cruise Ships Come In All Shapes And Sizes
The ideal cruise ship for one person may be a mega-ship outfitted with onboard rock-climbing walls and outdoor movie theaters, while another will prefer an intimate ship with an upscale ambience and someone else will want the seafaring experience of a masted tall sailing ship. Luckily, all those different types of cruise ships exist. From French Country Waterways’ 12-person river barges to Royal Caribbean’s 5,400-passenger Oasis of the Seas. More options range from the luxurious Seabourn Odyssey to the minimalist sailing ships of Star Clippers and even to ice-strengthened expedition ships like Hurtigruten’s Fram.
5. Ships Offer A Variety of Onboard Activities
Today’s cruise ships are designed to keep everyone happy. Want to pamper yourself at the spa while your spouse hits the casino? Or lounge in the sun reading a book while your family plays basketball. You can go to an educational lecture, a wine tasting, a computer class or a dance workshop; paint pottery, play bridge, learn a language or do yoga; dine at a casual buffet, a fancy sit-down restaurant, a sushi bar, a diner or a steakhouse; and watch a movie, a comedy routine, a song-and-dance show or live music performance. And if all you want to do is nothing while the ship sails from port to port you can do that, too.
6. Cruise Vacations Are Easy To Plan
Because cruise vacations package together transportation and accommodations, they’re very easy to plan. Pick your ship, itinerary and cabin, and away you go – no searching for hotels in your price range, no coordinating travel between cities. You can even get your travel agent to arrange your airfare for you – or choose a departure port within driving distance to eliminate that extra planning step. Groups also find cruises a cinch to book. Cruise lines have plans in place for group travel, eliminating the hassle of coordinating your 20 family members and friends from around the country who want to vacation with you. Book enough cabins – and you’ll get extra perks, including a free fare!
7. Ships Are Floating Cities
If you’re concerned about being stranded in the middle of the ocean, relax. Cruise ships are like floating cities with everything you could possibly want onboard. Today’s vessels are outfitted with Wi-Fi, cell service and satellite TV so you can stay in touch with the real world during your cruise (if you even want to). Onboard shops sell the toiletries you forgot to pack, medical centers can provide meds or a doctor’s services if needed, and laundry facilities let you wash your clothes mid-cruise so you don’t need to over-pack. Of course, there’s also the fun stuff like gyms, multiple restaurants, movie screens, spas, swimming pools, theaters and discos. And in the rare emergency, there are always enough lifeboats for everyone onboard.
8. Cruise Vacations Can Be Exotic
Always wanted to visit Asia but are nervous about the language barrier? Curious about the Middle East, but nervous about country customs? A cruise is one of the best ways to see the most exotic and foreign destinations in this world in an easy way. Itineraries offer calls at major cities and picturesque villages, all of which will be regional highlights, so you don’t have to do the research on the best places to visit in an unfamiliar destination. If you’re uncomfortable with independent sightseeing in a new locale, simple take a ship’s tour with English-speaking guides. Or team up with more experienced travelers you meet online or onboard to share a cab or private guide.
9. Cruising Is Romantic
Anyone who’s watched “The Love Boat” knows that there’s a romance to sea travel. The wind in your hair, the vistas of endless ocean, the stars twinkling above all set the mood for love may be clichés but they’re real experiences onboard! If you want to rekindle the spark with your sweetie, a cruise vacation provides plenty of together time – sharing side-by-side lounge chairs by the pool, a table for two at dinner, dancing in the evening or sharing quality time onshore. Cruise lines also have special packages for honeymoons, vow renewals and weddings onboard and onshore.
Top Reasons to Visit France
Top Reasons to Visit France
1. Immerse In Art
Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, Hugo, Dumas – these are just a few artists who lived and worked in France. With strong literary, musical and visual arts scenes, art surrounds you in France. A few highlights include the Van Gogh trail in Arles, Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny and the Picasso Museum in Paris.
2. Explore Castles
Although the sumptuous palace of Versailles tops many traveler’s lists, you can find castles in France that suits everybody’s fancy. From hilltop fortress castles like Carcassonne to delicate chateaus like the riverside Chenonceau, you could easily spend an entire holiday exploring just a tiny selection of French castles.
3. Indulge In Food
Whether you love the simplicity of Brittany’s buckwheat crepes or delight in the sophisticated elegance of classic French dishes like escargot or chocolate souffle, you will probably remember your French food experiences as a trip highlight. Some other classic dishes to try include salade nicoise from Provence, cassoulet from the south and hearty winter dishes like coq au vin and beef bourguignon. Bon appetit!
4. Taste French Wine
Some highlights of the French wine scene include scenic drives along the Cotes du Rhone with stops at hilltop wineries and the opportunity to raise a toast with a glass of bubbly in the actual Champagne region of France. With over 2,900 wines offered throughout the country, why not dedicate part of your trip to finding your perfect tipple?
5. Shop at Markets
Virtually every town in France boasts some type of weekly market where you can haggle over vintage bric-a-brac, sample gourmet delicacies or taste local wines. Antique lovers can’t miss the L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue market in Provence or Paris’ Porte de Vanves flea market. Get the freshest produce, bread, olives and other delicacies at the La Ciotat market in Bouches-du-Rhone or Brittany’s Quintin market.
6. Stroll Through Villages
French villages offer the perfect anecdotes to the hustle and bustle of city life. Some scenic picks include the hilltop village of Gordes in Provence, the Alsatian village of Riquewihr with its half-timbered houses and the medieval walled town of Perouges in the Rhone-Alpes region.
7. Adventure Through Nature
In addition to the alpine scenery of Mont Blanc, France also boasts the Verdon Gorge where you can hike or kayak inside the “Grand Canyon of Europe.” Go back in time to visit extinct volcanoes in the Auvergne park. If you fancy something entirely different, frolic with the flamingos and run with the wild horses in the Camargue region.
8. Relax At Beaches
Put on your most elegant suit and shades and sunbathe with the rich and famous in St. Tropez or Cannes on the French Riviera. More laid-back travelers can get away from it all on the windswept and quiet beaches of Brittany. If you want history with your beach fun, visit the D-Day beaches of Normandy or the medieval walled town of St. Malo, once the hideaway of French pirates.
9. Take In Cities
A city break to Paris, one of the world’s most romantic cities, rewards travelers with an endless buffet of world-class art, music, architecture, food and history. Other notable French cities include the quaint Alsatian canal-filled city of Strasbourg, the Rhone river city of Lyon with its majestic cathedral and the fascinating cultural melting pot of the port city of Marseilles.
Top Reasons To Visit Italy
Top Reasons To Visit Italy
1. Roman Ruins
Rome was the capital of the once mighty Roman Empire and rightfully continues to be the political centre of the country. Medieval economic powers such as Milan, Venice, Genoa, and Sicily have also played a key role – amassing a vast collection of cultural heritages. Some of the must-see Roman ruins that you should visit while in Italy include the Colosseum, Pantheon and Forum in Rome, and the ruins of ancient cities like Herculaneum and Pompeii.
2. Italian Cities Are Legendary
Italian cities are among the world’s oldest continuing cities and urban planning. The Romans and Italians had understood the necessity of urban cities in maintaining economic, political and cultural relevance. The Italian cities of Rome, Milan, Venice, Genoa, Naples, Florence, Cagliari, Palermo, Livorno, and Sienna are filled with rich cultural heritages and character.
3. Stunning Villages
Italian cities are worth every penny, but the villages are equally stunning and worth your time. Tuscany’s most classic region – San Gimignano, the coastal town of Manarola, the captivating town of Matera – the list is endless.
4. Picturesque Lakes
Head to Northern Italy to experience all the natural beauty that Italy has to offer. Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore are pristine and simply stunning.
5. Italy Is A Treasure Trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites
UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Italy are synonymous as the country has close to 50 heritage sites, making the country with the highest collection of UNESCO designated monuments and heritage sites. From the historic centers of Florence, Naples, Rome, to the Roman Forums to the beautiful villages of Cinque Terre, Italy is one amazing living museum.
6. Italian Art And Culture
Italy was the center of the fabled Renaissance movement and is the birth and workplace of renowned painters like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Botticelli, Donatello, etc. Italian cities of Rome, Milan and Florence has the most amazing art of human consciousness.
7. Dazzling Italian Islands
White beaches with crystal-clear water complemented by lavish resorts and historic sites – the islands of Italy are too good to be true. Right from Lampedusa to Stromboli to Capri, each island holds its own charm; no wonder Italy’s beaches are considered the best in Europe.
8. Italian Food
Italian cuisine is fresh, colorful, delicious and filled with passion. Be it the wood-fried pizzas of Naples, Tuscan pasta and spaghetti, Lombardy’s meat-based delicacies and Mediterranean flavor of Sicily. Italian cuisine changes with the region and has its own distinct flavors at the same time maintaining same Italian character in its food.
9. Highest Quality Wine
Italian wines are perhaps the best in the world as the soil and climate are ideal to support the famous Chianti, Montalcino, Piedmont, Lombardy vineyards and for producing the finest quality red wines. Local farm products are simply world class and are perfect companion to complement the rich food and fine wine.
10. Diverse Landscapes
Italian regions are diverse, each with its own identity and regional variations in language, geography, cuisine and attractions. Tuscany, Lombardy, Campania, Sardiania, Sicily, Liguria, Calabria, Lazio, and Umbria are regions filled with beautiful landscapes and several variations in sights to see and food to eat.
Best Reasons To Travel To Switzerland
Best Reasons To Travel To Switzerland
Switzerland may seem relatively small as compared to other European nations but that certainly does not mean that it has less to offer. Rather, it has set itself apart from the rest of Europe – its unparalleled landscapes, peaceful environments and cosmopolitan cities – and has succeeded in becoming a tourist mecca that is at the same time not over-commercialised. It is safe, clean, you can get around easily by public transport and there are no language barriers.
1. Swiss Cuisine
Each region of Switzerland boasts its own specialities too – Saffron Risotto for the Italian-speaking, Raclette (hot cheese dribbled over potatoes) for the French-speaking region and Landjager (semi-dried sausages) for the German-speaking part. But a few dishes, such as rosti and cheese fondue are eaten across the country and are almost always included in restaurants catered to foreign visitors.
2. Sample Swiss Chocolates
Quality chocolates that instantly melt in the mouth are wonderful and they make perfect souvenirs as well. Choose from a wide variety of brands, each with a long-standing history of producing chocolates, such as Callier, Suchard and Chocolat Villars. Dedicated chocolate lovers can also make a trip to any of the 21 chocolate factories scattered around the country such as the 150-year-old Maestrani Chocolate Factory at St Gallen.
3. Safety
Switzerland ranks 7th globally in terms of safety and security according to the Safe Cities Index 2015. You can walk along its spotless streets even at night without having to worry about getting mugged.
4. Marvel at the Matterhorn
This iconic landmark is featured in the brand logos of Toblerone and Paramount Pictures. Located at the border between Switzerland and Italy and overlooking the town of Zermatt, this popular tourist sight is famous for its almost-perfect four-sided pyramidal peak. This year, a series of events and festivities will also be held at Zermatt to mark 150 years since the first ascent of the mountain.
5. Hop Onto A Scenic Train Ride
Be entertained by Switzerland’s gorgeous sceneries during your long journeys by train. Traveling by rail is faster than traveling by coach, cheaper than flights and easy to use. Plus you get to sit back, relax and enjoy the view. In fact, it has been reported that tour packages which include specific scenic rail routes such as the Glacier Express and Bernina Express are gaining traction for its practicality.
6. Have An Alternative Farmstay Experience
Experience something truly different and memorable by heading to the countryside. Agritourism has become, in recent years, increasingly popular and which better country to experience this at than Switzerland? You can even choose between sleeping in a hut, a campground or on straw.
7. Get Active With A Variety Of Sporting Activities
From sports on land, to those in the water and even some up in the air, Switzerland has it all. For those seeking a thrilling, new sport, try canyoning, a water sport that is steadily gaining fans in Europe and around the world. It involves travelling from the start to the end of a canyon using a host of methods such as walking, climbing, jumping, abseiling and swimming. The best places to experience canyoning in Switzerland’s crystalline waters include Interlaken and the canton of Ticino.
8. Soak In Thermal Waters Of The Best Quality
With a 2000-year history of tapping their thermal springs, you can be sure that you are in good hands of the Swiss, the experts in water-based wellness. Opt to have a restorative retreat in a luxurious indoor spa or better still, bathe outdoors among the Alps and indulge in a therapeutic experience for both mind and body.
Top Reasons to Visit Oman
Top Reasons to Visit Oman
With great natural sights, vast deserts, authentic Middle Eastern culture and food, Oman is a great tourist destination for anyone.
1. Secluded Crystal Clear Wadi Pools
Wadis are normally dry valleys that are filled during the rainy season. There are hundreds of wadis in Oman between stunning and grand mountains and palm trees, with turquoise and sometimes lime-green water that offer the ultimate in natural beauty. Each wadi is unique and offers a different experience based on its location and surrounding geography, and provide a refreshing relief from the heat.
2. Deserted Beaches
Oman has some pretty amazing beaches due to its coastline. There are a lot of beaches you can find that will provide a perfect place for relaxation and enjoyment.
3. Beautiful Desert
The Sharqiya Sands is just one of the desert areas in Oman, having amazing red sand dunes and a mesmerizing view.
4. Historic Forts and Castles
Oman is home to a number of historic forts and castles such as Nakhal Fort (built in the 17th century and beautifully restored) and Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 13th century. There are over 500 forts and castles in Oman.
5. Excellent Roads
The paved roads in Oman are in excellent condition and very quiet once you get out of Muscat.
6. Salalah Khareef Festival
Khareef, which means monsoon in English, is a very well-known season that hits the southern part of Oman starting in late June of every year until the following September. During this season, Salalah, in particular, becomes very green and rainy, turning the dry desert-filled city into a natural paradies. For the pure constant beauty of nature, Khareef Salalah attracts locals as well as international visitors who want to enjoy the season.
7. Traditional Weddings and Celebrations
Traditional costumes, food, and well choreographed dances are all components of festivities in Oman. Omanis celebrate the country’s Renaissance Day on the 23rd of July and the Sultan’s birthday on the 18th of November, and they prepare for both celebrations all year long. Another festive occasion is weddings; they are always colorful and joyful in their own traditional way.
8. Other Tourists Are Rare
You will be able to have the beauty of Oman all to yourself as there are relatively fewer tourists in Oman compared to more popular destinations.
9. Wild Camping
There are few restrictions as to where you can camp in the wild in Oman, and you can pitch your tent anywhere, as long as you don’t camp near villages or in wadi beds. Of course you need to pick up your trash and clean up after yourself.
10. Diving
With a coastline that extends 1700km and covers the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, Oman has become one of the best kept secrets for avid divers looking for exceptional marine life and diving experiences. Muscat, the capital of Oman, is the most easily accessible city and offers several dive sites within a day trips distance.
Top Reasons to Visit Georgia
Top Reasons to Visit Georgia
1. Food and Restaurant Scene
The food of Georgia is diverse, often based on the country’s rural nature and austere history. Examples of great Georgian food is khinkali, a local version of dumplings which can be filled with potato, beef, cheese or mushroooms; or khachapuri, a pizza-like dough filled with cheese, which comes in many versions and toppings.
Because Georgia has such a rich cuisine, there is a great restaurant scene in Georgian cities, where you can find both local and international cuisine being served. Chardin street in Tbilisi has many good restaurants and cafes lined up. Many places also have very original décor, ranging from ultra-modern to traditional, from artsy to nostalgic.
2. Spas
Because of an abundance of sulfurous thermal waters in Tbilisi around the area of Abanotubani, there are a number of public and private bathhouses where you can have an exfoliating massage and plunge into a pool filled with sulfurous water – known to be good for the skin and also known to be good in the treatment of asthma and rheumatism, among other benefits.
3. Budget-Friendly
Despite the growing popularity of Georgia as a tourist destination, it is still a budget-friendly destination while maintaining a good experience for travelers.
4. Traditional Wine
As one of the oldest producers of wine in the world, it is believed that Georgians have been making wine for at least 8,000 years, with their own traditional method in egg-shaped clay jars called qvevri. Those jars are buried underground where the fermentation happens naturally. It must be noted that Georgian wine develops an amber color when it is made in qvevri.
5. Beautiful Architecture
The cities of Georgia have no shortage of beautiful sights and buildings for tourists to see and admire. From the ancient ruins to Soviet buildings, from Art Nouveau to modern, Tbilisi and the rest of the country has it all.
6. Nature
Georgia is home to all kinds of climate zones despite its small size. You can find deserts, ski resorts, Black Sea coasts, and alpine zones. Lakes, canyons, waterfalls, spa resorts are all available travelers to Georgia.
7. Old Tbilisi
Old Tbilisi is the historical part of the Georgian capital and is worth a trip on its own. You can walk around historical buildings from the 17th to 19th centuries, as well as art deco.
8. Safety
Some sources reveal that Georgia is the third safest country in the world, only behind Singapore and Korea. Petty crime is nearly unheard of, murders, tourist kidnappings, police corruption, these are things that you will not have to worry about when traveling to Georgia.
9. Luxury
Although Georgia is known as a budget destination, you will find many options to stay in comfort and luxury all over the country. Tbilisi, Batumi and Borjomi have a good selection of luxuty hotels and refined restaurants.
10. Georgia is home to the two highest villages in Europe
Ushguli in Svaneti, standing at 2,200 meters above the sea level and Bochorna in Kakheti, situated at 2,345 meters above the sea level is considered to be the highest settlements in Europe. Ushguli, nested at the foot of Mount Shkhara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why Azerbaijan Should Be Your Next Destination
Why Azerbaijan Should Be Your Next Destination
Azerbaijan is a country in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia with a rich culture that has developed as a result of many influences. This is reflected in all aspects of Azerbaijan, such as their architecture, food, and arts. In this blog post are just some of the reasons why Azerbaijan should be your next destination.
1. Affordable
Visiting a wonderful country like Azerbaijan does not mean that you will have to empty your wallet, as Azerbaijan is one of the more affordable travel destinations with daily costs of travel rarely exceeding $60 including accommodation, food and drink, admission fees and entertainment.
2. The Azerbaijan eVisa
In order to make traveling to Azerbaijan easier, the eVisa was implemented. No longer is it needed to visit embassies and pay hefty fees. Tourists can apply for the Azerbaijan tourist visa for $20 plus a $3 service fee, all of which takes approximately three business days to process. The ease of getting a visa combined with affordability make good reasons to visit Azerbaijan.
3. Mud Volcanoes
A major number of the world’s mud volcanoes are along the Absheron Peninsula. Mud volcanoes erupt plumes of mud after pockets of subterranean gas build pressure forcing it to the surface. Azerbaijan’s Turaghai and Boyuk Khanizadagh are among the world’s largest at 700 meters (2297 feet). The volcanoes tend to bubble away slowly causing the sides to build up over time.
4. The Locals
The culture in Azerbaijan makes the people open and welcoming, and they give the best hospitality. You will surely have a warm and inviting travel experience in Azerbaijan as you interact with the locals and their culture.
5. Mountain Villages
A variety of historical and cultural villages such as Quba in Azerbaijan’s northeast, as well as Laza, Xinaliq and Buduq communities, are favorite tourist destinations. When visiting Azerbaijan, make sure to visit some of these interesting villages and experience a culture almost entirely lost to time.
6. The Azerbaijan Grand Prix
Fans from all over the world come to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Baku hosted the Grand Prix for the second time in 2017 as the global superstars of Formula One descended on Azerbaijan’s capital. The Baku City Circuit covers 51 laps around the 6 km (3.7 miles) track in the capital’s long straight streets.
7. Azerbaijan Architecture
Any travel plan must involve some sightseeing, and the varied and rich architecture of Azerbaijan will make sure that any traveler will have no shortage of sights to feast their eyes on. From the modern Flame Towers in Baku to medieval palaces and temples dotted here and there, and more.
8. Azerbaijan Tea Culture
Tea is a major element of Azerbaijan culture. The locals perform ancient ceremonies for guests showing warmth, friendliness and excellent hospitality. If you’re invited to someone’s house, hosts serve spiced black tea with a cube of sugar. Traditionally, people dip the sugar in to the drink and take a bit before sipping. According to local lore, the origins date back to medieval times. Rulers were afraid of poison. If the sugar reacted when dipped in tea, they believed someone was trying to kill them.
9. Traditional Carpets
Azerbaijan is known for their traditional carpets, and carpet weaving as a practice in Azerbaijan dates back to antiquity, passing from one generation to the next by word of mouth. Today, Azerbaijan has seven carpet producing regions.
10. Hiking in the Caucasus
The Caucasus marks the boundary of Eastern Europe and Western Asia crossing a handful of countries, even more autonomous republics and five time zones. Within a short distance of Baku, you could be hiking in the Caucasus among steep gorges, ravines and plains stretching far into the distance. The diversity in landscape makes every hike different and gives you the change to explore the vast natural beauty of Azerbaijan.
Why Turkey Should Be Your Next Destination
Why Turkey Should Be Your Next Destination
Turkey is a country overflowing with history, culture and beauty. Although this is by no means an exhaustive list and description of all of the great things about Turkey, we hope that you will feel an even greater desire to visit this wonderful destination after reading through them.
1. Food
A heritage of Ottoman cuisine, Turkish food is a fusion of Middle Eastern, Balkan, Central Asian, and Eastern European cuisines, taking influences from its neighbors and in turn influencing them.
Turkish cuisine is famous for its kebabs, mezes (a selection of small dishes served as appetizers), dough-based desserts, sweet and savory pastries, cheeses, and more.
2. Turkish Coffee
This popular preparation of coffee first appeared in the Ottoman Empire. It involves brewing very finely ground coffee beans unfiltered, and is used in many Middle Eastern and Southeastern European countries. It can be served with or without sugar, and is often flavored with cardamom, mastic, salep, or ambergris.
If you haven’t tried Turkish coffee yet then it is definitely worth it on your next visit to Turkey
3. Hamam (Turkish Bath)
The Hamam or Turkish bath is traditionally a place of public bathing and can be one of the most memorable experiences you will have in Turkey. A Turkish bath is a relaxing and invigorating experience that typically includes a steam bath and massage followed by a cool rinse and tea break. Some bathhouses even offer massage and therapy sessions.
4. Cappadocia
Cappadocia is one of the most magical places on Earth, and is one of the best reasons to visit Turkey. In this historical destination, you can stay in cave hotels, watch hundreds of hot air balloons each day, and admire historical sites.
5. Pamukkale
Included in the UNESCO World Heritage list and one of the most popular spots for day trips is the pools of Pamukkale in Turkey.
6. Beaches
Turkey is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world due to its endless coastline, and they come in plenty of variety with everything from sand to pebbles and cliff beaches.
Some great beaches in Turkey may be found in Iztuzu Beach, Dalyan; Mermerli Beach, Antalya; Butterfly Valley, Ölüdeniz; and more.
7. The Grand Bazaar
In Istanbul you can find one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world: The Grand Bazaar. With a total area of 30,700m2, 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops, the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul was listed No. 1 among the world’s most-visited tourist attractions in 2014. It is also regarded as one of the first shopping malls of the world. Make sure to stop by this great market when you go to Turkey.
8. Hagia Sophia
Though it is now a museum in Istanbul, Turkey, the Hagia Sophia was formerly an Ottoman imperial mosque, and even before that was an Orthodox Christian cathedral. It is one of the most recognizable architectural accomplishments in the world and considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture, being said to have “changed the history of architecture”. The Hagia Sophia is indeed a sight to behold.
Recommended popular places to visit in Istanbul
Even if it’s no longer the capital of Turkey, Istanbul is a place no traveler would want to miss. Traditional visual arts, astounding architecture, Sufi culture and the hospitality of Istanbulites attracts people from every corner of the world.
Even if it’s no longer the capital of Turkey, Istanbul is a place no traveller would want to miss. Traditional visual arts, astounding architecture, Sufi culture and the hospitality of Istanbulites attracts people from every corner of the world. While the list of attractions and marvels can be next to endless in this charming city, here are some recommended popular places as well as lesser-known gems to visit:
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Blue Mosque
Standing with its unique design of 6 minarets, the Blue Mosque also known as Sultanahmet Mosque is an architectural and spiritual treat for visitors. It manages to be one of Istanbul’s most visited sights. This marvelous and exquisite beauty is something you wouldn’t want to miss.
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Topkapi Palace
This grand grey stone palace has been standing for hundreds of years. Having housed powerful sultans and containing the lost echoes of the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, the palace offers gems like the Topaki sword among other weapons and antique jewels. A little ahead is the Bosphorus Sea, another breathtaking view to behold.
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Dervish dancing
It is not merely a tourist attraction but a form of worshipping and joining the soul with the divine as done in Sufism by the followers of Mevlana. Watching dervish dancing in a trance is truly a mystic experience and one not to be missed when in Turkey.
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Hagia Sofia
A vestige of a church and a mosque this museum is an architectural splendor to behold. Gaze at the historically laden etchings and designs on the pillars and walls and behold classical antiques.
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Archeology museum
The sarcophagus of Alexander the great is the reason why this museum is a top attraction along with a great many classical antiquities. Visitors find it a little spooky but beautiful with its carved blue pavilions and of course the famous Karaman Mihrab.
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Bascila cistern
This is an underground exquisite cistern revealing Byzantium art and architecture. The soothing, as well as a little unnerving sound of the dripping water, makes one wonder in this place far removed from the hubbub of everyday life. You can also watch small fish swim below your feet.
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Sulaymaniyah mosque
The luxuriously red carpeted floor and the bright lights inside this mosque would leave you in awe and enthralled. Less visited than the famous blue mosque, this is the place to go to when wanting to lose yourself in the house of worship to a greater power.
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The Galata Tower
Climb above the city to get a panoramic view of the world below. The conical top reminds one of an ancient castle with a damsel captured inside or one from a magical and fantastical era. Another great experience recommended.
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Ortokay and Bebek
These two villages lining the Bosphorus river are ideal places to take an evening stroll, munch on indigenous goodies or sip a drink from the abounding cafes, and watch the setting sun bidding adieu. While Bebek offers greenery and peace Ortokay is crisscrossed by stone bridges and pathways giving it a sense of ruggedness and charm.
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Nightlife
Istanbul’s nightlife offers a number of penthouses, mansions, pubs, restaurants, performance centers, nightclubs, and bars. Listen to multiple genres of music, watch breathtaking performances and enjoy a night of pure entertainment.
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Turkish cuisines
Enjoy masterpieces of Turkish cuisines which are quite impossible to be listed due to their variety. Istanbul may be famous for its kebabs but restaurants here have much more. Taste mouth-watering dishes like Pides (Turkish pizza), fish, dry beans (kuru fasulye) cheese and most importantly Turkey’s most famous baklava dessert.
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Istiklal Avenue
Considered as Istanbul’s busiest street, Istiklal Avenue allows you to examine a variety of products in local shops. The numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants with live music will add a soothing touch of Turkish life to your trip. Enjoy this long stretch of colors and fragrances to go through the core of Turkish life.
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Istanbul’s Shisha
Istanbul’s most famous pastime is smoking this unique water pipe popularly known as Hookah or Shisha. Walk through the mind soothing Hookah lounges and sit with the locals while talking about Istanbul’s history and culture.
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The Grand Bazaar
Bazaars contain the marvels which you may have missed in popular tourist attractions. The age-old grand bazaar is sprawling and offers an endless walk through the tradition, culture, and cuisine of Istanbul. Buy haggle bargain for souvenirs, local products, ceramics, handicrafts, jewelry and leather here.
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Bosphorous cruise
Any trip to a city waded by waters is incomplete without a cruise. Glide through the clear waters of Istanbul to view ancient mansions, palaces and the scenic outline of the whole city flowing past.