Monday, April 14, 2008
A Brief history of Dubai
A trip to Dubai transports you on a journey through time. Although the early history of the area is not very well documented, archeological discoveries suggests that, as long as four thousand years ago, small fishing communities lived along the coast of the Arabian Gulf on the site of modern Dubai. It is also believed that the natural sheltered harbour afforded by the Dubai Creekwa a busy port of call on the ancient trade route between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. In recent years, archeologists have unearthedhundreds of artefacts, including pottery, weapons and coinage, that point to civilised settlements dating back to the third millennium B.C. These historic finds have been carefully preserved and are now permanently housed in the Archeolo- gical Section of Dubai Museum. Modern Dubai, however, traces its origins to the 1830’s. At that time, the small fishing village on the Shindagha peninsula at the mouth of the Creek was settled by a branch of the Bani Yas tribe, originally from the Liwa oasis to the south, led by the Maktoum family who still rule the emirates today. By the late 1870’s, Dubai was often referred to as the principal port on the Gulf coast and, by the turn of the century, was reputed to have had the largest souks in Arabia. Pearling which was the mainstay of the city’s prosperity for many years, succumbed to the development of the cultured pearl in the 1940’s. But Dubai’s enterprising merchants bounced back, developing a thriving trade in gold and other commodities. Much of this history is carefully preserved in myriad forts, mosques, palaces and other historic monu-ments, which are on the itineraries of many organized tours. Archaeological Sites There are four main excavation site in Dubai, at Al Qusais, Al Sufooh, Jumeirah and Hatta. The first two are graveyards dating back more than 2,000 years. The Jumeirah site reveals artifacts from the 7th to 15th centuries AD. These sites are not yet open to the public. However tourist or tour operators may obtain a special permit from Dubai Museum to visit the digs. Bur Dubai Creekside The buildings lining the Bur Dubai side of the Creek provided the main panorama of the old city. The traditional facades of these buildings have been restored to their original state, with wooden windows, decorative gypsum panels and screens.
Welcome to the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort
Commercial Life
The museum's realistic lifesize static displays provide an insight into the traditional occupants of Dubai. Those have included dhow building, fishing, pearl diving and trade. Indeed, the export of fine pearls was a major factor in Dubai's rise to prominence as a trading centre.The Creek has always been the lifeline of Dubai, providing a safe harbour to mercantile and fishing vessels, as it does even today. Visitors to the museum can view a splendid diorama depicting the old charm and bustle of commercial life along the banks of this fabled waterway.Souks have been often referred to as the real heart of Arabia, and nowhere is this more true than in Dubai. The city's famous souks have, since the late 19th century, attached merchants and traders from as far afield as India, Iran, the eastern coast of Africa and beyond. At the museum, you can experience all the atmosphere of a soul in the 1950s, as you stroll through a labyrinth of spice stores, pottery and carpentry workshops and rows of shops, including tailors, grocers, textile merchants and date-sellers.Domestic Life
Traditional Dubai houses are considered to be among the finest examples of Gulf architecture. The earliest houses were constructed with humble building materials, including the leaves and trunks of palm trees (areesh), rocks and earthen clay. As flourishing pearl trade brought greater prosperity in the latter half of the last century, however, these gave away to houses built of stone and adorned with magnificent wind towers, the world's earliest form of air conditioning.
The museum's realistic lifesize static displays provide an insight into the traditional occupants of Dubai. Those have included dhow building, fishing, pearl diving and trade. Indeed, the export of fine pearls was a major factor in Dubai's rise to prominence as a trading centre.The Creek has always been the lifeline of Dubai, providing a safe harbour to mercantile and fishing vessels, as it does even today. Visitors to the museum can view a splendid diorama depicting the old charm and bustle of commercial life along the banks of this fabled waterway.Souks have been often referred to as the real heart of Arabia, and nowhere is this more true than in Dubai. The city's famous souks have, since the late 19th century, attached merchants and traders from as far afield as India, Iran, the eastern coast of Africa and beyond. At the museum, you can experience all the atmosphere of a soul in the 1950s, as you stroll through a labyrinth of spice stores, pottery and carpentry workshops and rows of shops, including tailors, grocers, textile merchants and date-sellers.Domestic Life
Traditional Dubai houses are considered to be among the finest examples of Gulf architecture. The earliest houses were constructed with humble building materials, including the leaves and trunks of palm trees (areesh), rocks and earthen clay. As flourishing pearl trade brought greater prosperity in the latter half of the last century, however, these gave away to houses built of stone and adorned with magnificent wind towers, the world's earliest form of air conditioning.
Entertainment in Dubai
Birding Breaks
For birdwatchers, Dubai has something really special to offer, a tidal wetland right on its doorstep, Within a few minutes of the center of town. The city skyline forms a backdrop for thousands of flamingoes, herons,ducks and shorebirds, which Feed and rest on the mudflats on their migration between Asia and Africa. Within an hour’s drive of Dubai live some of the region’s rarest species, inhabiting deserts and mountains which have not yet Changed in thousands of years. Over 400 bird species have been seen in the United Arab Emirates Since records began and it is possible to find nearly 200 of them during a short stay in the country. Lying on the blue waters of the Southern Gulf and backed by the majestic desert, Dubai offers Visitors year-round sunshine and five- star luxury… plus the adventure of a unique Arabian Experiences. One of the seven emirates which make up the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is a place of fascinating Contrasts, a distinctive blend of modern city and timeless desert, East and west, old and new. Known in the region as the city of merchants, Dubai has for generations, welcomed seafarers and Traders to its shores. Today this tradition of courtesy and hospitality lives on. The streets are clean and safe and travelers are sure to be charmed by the city’s warmth and friendliness. Dubai has something for everyone- from the holiday-maker simply seeking a relaxing break away From the clouds and crowds, to the active tourist looking for a new and exciting experience. The city Has superb facilities for sports, shopping, dining and entertainment.
A Selection Of Species Likely To Be Found
Socotra Cormorant Phalacrocorax nigrogularisThis species is present in large numbers offshore in the Arabian gulf. They make an impressive spectacle as thousands of birds fly up and down the coast in close formation, the sheer numbers sometimes taking an hour or two just to fly past. The species is endemic to Arabia and the Emirates alone hosts 15% of the world population. They breed in tight colonies on undistrurbed Gulf islands, usually taking advantage of abundant fish stocks to feed their young.Arabian Experiences
Desert Safaris, dune driving and wadi-bashing.
Moonlight Arabian barbecues in thr street complete with traditional entertainment.
Camel Racing and falconry.
Cruises exotic of traditional wooden dhow or modern cabin cruiser on the Dubai Creek and into the Gulf.
The exotic sights and sounds of traditional commerce in the bustling souks and on the Quays of the Creek.
Photographic opportunities galore- elegant mosques, sumptuous palaces, brightly dressed children, majestic camels, ancient windtowers, dusty villages and dramatic sunsets.
For birdwatchers, Dubai has something really special to offer, a tidal wetland right on its doorstep, Within a few minutes of the center of town. The city skyline forms a backdrop for thousands of flamingoes, herons,ducks and shorebirds, which Feed and rest on the mudflats on their migration between Asia and Africa. Within an hour’s drive of Dubai live some of the region’s rarest species, inhabiting deserts and mountains which have not yet Changed in thousands of years. Over 400 bird species have been seen in the United Arab Emirates Since records began and it is possible to find nearly 200 of them during a short stay in the country. Lying on the blue waters of the Southern Gulf and backed by the majestic desert, Dubai offers Visitors year-round sunshine and five- star luxury… plus the adventure of a unique Arabian Experiences. One of the seven emirates which make up the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is a place of fascinating Contrasts, a distinctive blend of modern city and timeless desert, East and west, old and new. Known in the region as the city of merchants, Dubai has for generations, welcomed seafarers and Traders to its shores. Today this tradition of courtesy and hospitality lives on. The streets are clean and safe and travelers are sure to be charmed by the city’s warmth and friendliness. Dubai has something for everyone- from the holiday-maker simply seeking a relaxing break away From the clouds and crowds, to the active tourist looking for a new and exciting experience. The city Has superb facilities for sports, shopping, dining and entertainment.
A Selection Of Species Likely To Be Found
Socotra Cormorant Phalacrocorax nigrogularisThis species is present in large numbers offshore in the Arabian gulf. They make an impressive spectacle as thousands of birds fly up and down the coast in close formation, the sheer numbers sometimes taking an hour or two just to fly past. The species is endemic to Arabia and the Emirates alone hosts 15% of the world population. They breed in tight colonies on undistrurbed Gulf islands, usually taking advantage of abundant fish stocks to feed their young.Arabian Experiences
Desert Safaris, dune driving and wadi-bashing.
Moonlight Arabian barbecues in thr street complete with traditional entertainment.
Camel Racing and falconry.
Cruises exotic of traditional wooden dhow or modern cabin cruiser on the Dubai Creek and into the Gulf.
The exotic sights and sounds of traditional commerce in the bustling souks and on the Quays of the Creek.
Photographic opportunities galore- elegant mosques, sumptuous palaces, brightly dressed children, majestic camels, ancient windtowers, dusty villages and dramatic sunsets.
Arabian Ranches
Arabian Ranches
Arabian Ranches Golf Club – formerly known as The Desert Course, Arabian Ranches, was built as a true 18 hole, par 72, desert style grass course, a signature course designed by Ian Baker-Finch in association with Nicklaus Design. Miss the immaculate grass of the fairways and greens and you enter the “sandy waste”, with its indigenous shrubs and bushes. All standards of golfer will also appreciate the GPS (Global Positioning System) yardage service available on every golf cart.
The Spanish Colonial style Clubhouse boasts the Ranches Restaurant and Bar, with a terrace overlooking the panoramic scenic views over the 9th and 18th holes, a great place to meet and try the international menu. Within the Clubhouse there are 11 luxurious Guest Rooms with spectacular views overlooking either the Golf Course or the Lake, each en-suite room is beautifully furnished. Step out of your room, hop onto your golf cart and drive or walk straight to the first tee, totally refreshed for your game of golf. The perfect setting for any golfer.
Arabian Ranches Clubhouse is open 24 hours, 7 days a week for your reservations. With the best rates in town for both Golf and Guest Rooms, we recommend you book early. You can also visit the website and request your bookings on line at www.arabianranchesgolfdubai.com
The fully qualified Golf Professionals at the Golf Academy, sponsored by Lloyds TSB Bank, offer a variety of teaching programs for either the beginner or the more experienced golfer wishing to improve their game. The well-stocked Proshop also offers the latest in golfing apparel and hardware for all your golfing needs.
Architect Ian Baker-Finch, who knows all about links courses after his triumph in the 1991 Open at Royal Birkdale, believes the Arabian Ranches Golf Course is a unique challenge, “I spent many days on the site walking though the sand dunes with the camels before deciding on the best use of this unique property. I love the natural desert terrain. My hope is that you will love the natural flow of the holes through the sand dunes and wonderful desert landscape.”
Overall Arabian Ranches Golf Club gives you an all round unforgettable golfing experience.
Arabian Ranches Golf Club – formerly known as The Desert Course, Arabian Ranches, was built as a true 18 hole, par 72, desert style grass course, a signature course designed by Ian Baker-Finch in association with Nicklaus Design. Miss the immaculate grass of the fairways and greens and you enter the “sandy waste”, with its indigenous shrubs and bushes. All standards of golfer will also appreciate the GPS (Global Positioning System) yardage service available on every golf cart.
The Spanish Colonial style Clubhouse boasts the Ranches Restaurant and Bar, with a terrace overlooking the panoramic scenic views over the 9th and 18th holes, a great place to meet and try the international menu. Within the Clubhouse there are 11 luxurious Guest Rooms with spectacular views overlooking either the Golf Course or the Lake, each en-suite room is beautifully furnished. Step out of your room, hop onto your golf cart and drive or walk straight to the first tee, totally refreshed for your game of golf. The perfect setting for any golfer.
Arabian Ranches Clubhouse is open 24 hours, 7 days a week for your reservations. With the best rates in town for both Golf and Guest Rooms, we recommend you book early. You can also visit the website and request your bookings on line at www.arabianranchesgolfdubai.com
The fully qualified Golf Professionals at the Golf Academy, sponsored by Lloyds TSB Bank, offer a variety of teaching programs for either the beginner or the more experienced golfer wishing to improve their game. The well-stocked Proshop also offers the latest in golfing apparel and hardware for all your golfing needs.
Architect Ian Baker-Finch, who knows all about links courses after his triumph in the 1991 Open at Royal Birkdale, believes the Arabian Ranches Golf Course is a unique challenge, “I spent many days on the site walking though the sand dunes with the camels before deciding on the best use of this unique property. I love the natural desert terrain. My hope is that you will love the natural flow of the holes through the sand dunes and wonderful desert landscape.”
Overall Arabian Ranches Golf Club gives you an all round unforgettable golfing experience.
Sports in Dubai
The Classic Golf DestinationDubai is the pioneer of golf in the Middle East with championship standard grass courses to challenge the skills of even the most experienced players.
Arabian Ranches
Arabian Ranches Golf Club – formerly known as The Desert Course, Arabian Ranches, was built as a true 18 hole, par 72, desert style grass course, a signature course designed by Ian Baker-Finch in association with Nicklaus Design. Miss the immaculate grass of the fairways and greens and you enter the “sandy waste”, with its indigenous shrubs and bushes. All standards of golfer will also appreciate the GPS (Global Positioning System) yardage service available on every golf cart.
The Spanish Colonial style Clubhouse boasts the Ranches Restaurant and Bar, with a terrace overlooking the panoramic scenic views over the 9th and 18th holes, a great place to meet and try the international menu. Within the Clubhouse there are 11 luxurious Guest Rooms with spectacular views overlooking either the Golf Course or the Lake, each en-suite room is beautifully furnished. Step out of your room, hop onto your golf cart and drive or walk straight to the first tee, totally refreshed for your game of golf. The perfect setting for any golfer.
Arabian Ranches Clubhouse is open 24 hours, 7 days a week for your reservations. With the best rates in town for both Golf and Guest Rooms, we recommend you book early. You can also visit the website and request your bookings on line at www.arabianranchesgolfdubai.com
The fully qualified Golf Professionals at the Golf Academy, sponsored by Lloyds TSB Bank, offer a variety of teaching programs for either the beginner or the more experienced golfer wishing to improve their game. The well-stocked Proshop also offers the latest in golfing apparel and hardware for all your golfing needs.
Architect Ian Baker-Finch, who knows all about links courses after his triumph in the 1991 Open at Royal Birkdale, believes the Arabian Ranches Golf Course is a unique challenge, “I spent many days on the site walking though the sand dunes with the camels before deciding on the best use of this unique property. I love the natural desert terrain. My hope is that you will love the natural flow of the holes through the sand dunes and wonderful desert landscape.”
Overall Arabian Ranches Golf Club gives you an all round unforgettable golfing experience.
ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUBFor reservations call: +9714 3663000Fax: +9714 3663355Email: teetime@arabianranchesgolf.aeEmail: rooms@arabianranchesgolf.aeWebsite: www.arabianranchesgolfdubai.comDubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club
Opened in January 1993, Dubai’s second world class golf course in the centerpiece of a 80-hectare sports and leisure complex that also incorporates a 115-berth marina. It is located close to the city centre and Dubai International Airport on the banks of the Dubai Creek.The Course
The main championship 18-hole, par 72 course is 6,839 yards in length.
Three ornamental lakes and a further three seawater hazards are a feature of the course.
Cunning dog-legs along the immaculate fairways challenge both amateur and professional alike.
The 9-hole, par 3 course, fully floodlit, is a unique facility to practice the short game, day or night.
Facilities
Designed in the shape of the billowing sails of a traditional Arabian dhow, the 45-metre high clubhouse captures the essence of Dubai’s sea-faring traditions.
Bars and function rooms overlook the ninth and eighteenth greens, while the Fairways restaurant combines quality cuisine with breathtaking views of Dubai.
Golf Academy, High Tech Studio and a double ended driving range with instruction from six PGA qualified professionals.
Well stocked professional shops.
The separate yacht club incorporates the “Aquarium”, a seafood restaurant, as well as the popular “Board walk”, and the new “Boardwalk Café”.
Tennis courts and gymnasium with teaching programmes are also available.
Deep sea fishing with the yacht club’s own “Sneakaway” fishing boat.Rules of Play
Visitors are welcome on a “pay-as-you-play” basis.
All players must have a handicap of 28 or less for men and 45 or less for women.
Players should adhere to the dress code, which requires proper golfing attire at all times.
All golf courses in Dubai are spikeless.
Arabian Ranches
Arabian Ranches Golf Club – formerly known as The Desert Course, Arabian Ranches, was built as a true 18 hole, par 72, desert style grass course, a signature course designed by Ian Baker-Finch in association with Nicklaus Design. Miss the immaculate grass of the fairways and greens and you enter the “sandy waste”, with its indigenous shrubs and bushes. All standards of golfer will also appreciate the GPS (Global Positioning System) yardage service available on every golf cart.
The Spanish Colonial style Clubhouse boasts the Ranches Restaurant and Bar, with a terrace overlooking the panoramic scenic views over the 9th and 18th holes, a great place to meet and try the international menu. Within the Clubhouse there are 11 luxurious Guest Rooms with spectacular views overlooking either the Golf Course or the Lake, each en-suite room is beautifully furnished. Step out of your room, hop onto your golf cart and drive or walk straight to the first tee, totally refreshed for your game of golf. The perfect setting for any golfer.
Arabian Ranches Clubhouse is open 24 hours, 7 days a week for your reservations. With the best rates in town for both Golf and Guest Rooms, we recommend you book early. You can also visit the website and request your bookings on line at www.arabianranchesgolfdubai.com
The fully qualified Golf Professionals at the Golf Academy, sponsored by Lloyds TSB Bank, offer a variety of teaching programs for either the beginner or the more experienced golfer wishing to improve their game. The well-stocked Proshop also offers the latest in golfing apparel and hardware for all your golfing needs.
Architect Ian Baker-Finch, who knows all about links courses after his triumph in the 1991 Open at Royal Birkdale, believes the Arabian Ranches Golf Course is a unique challenge, “I spent many days on the site walking though the sand dunes with the camels before deciding on the best use of this unique property. I love the natural desert terrain. My hope is that you will love the natural flow of the holes through the sand dunes and wonderful desert landscape.”
Overall Arabian Ranches Golf Club gives you an all round unforgettable golfing experience.
ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUBFor reservations call: +9714 3663000Fax: +9714 3663355Email: teetime@arabianranchesgolf.aeEmail: rooms@arabianranchesgolf.aeWebsite: www.arabianranchesgolfdubai.comDubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club
Opened in January 1993, Dubai’s second world class golf course in the centerpiece of a 80-hectare sports and leisure complex that also incorporates a 115-berth marina. It is located close to the city centre and Dubai International Airport on the banks of the Dubai Creek.The Course
The main championship 18-hole, par 72 course is 6,839 yards in length.
Three ornamental lakes and a further three seawater hazards are a feature of the course.
Cunning dog-legs along the immaculate fairways challenge both amateur and professional alike.
The 9-hole, par 3 course, fully floodlit, is a unique facility to practice the short game, day or night.
Facilities
Designed in the shape of the billowing sails of a traditional Arabian dhow, the 45-metre high clubhouse captures the essence of Dubai’s sea-faring traditions.
Bars and function rooms overlook the ninth and eighteenth greens, while the Fairways restaurant combines quality cuisine with breathtaking views of Dubai.
Golf Academy, High Tech Studio and a double ended driving range with instruction from six PGA qualified professionals.
Well stocked professional shops.
The separate yacht club incorporates the “Aquarium”, a seafood restaurant, as well as the popular “Board walk”, and the new “Boardwalk Café”.
Tennis courts and gymnasium with teaching programmes are also available.
Deep sea fishing with the yacht club’s own “Sneakaway” fishing boat.Rules of Play
Visitors are welcome on a “pay-as-you-play” basis.
All players must have a handicap of 28 or less for men and 45 or less for women.
Players should adhere to the dress code, which requires proper golfing attire at all times.
All golf courses in Dubai are spikeless.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
EVENTS AND INCENTIVES
EQUINOX plans and manages congresses, business meetings, corporate events, product launches and incentive travel programs.EQUINOX guarantees its clients the security of extensive organizational competence.Understanding the requirements and obtaining the resources necessary is the key to the success of the fast and efficient service that EQUINOX offers. Highly competent and experienced, still personal and friendly EQUINOX team can rise to the challenge of any event regardless of size, subject matter or venue.
EXPLORE TURKEY 4x4
Turkey offers a wide range of natural beauty. Adventure travel in Turkey, contrary to the general belief, is not only for amusement, but also a real means for relaxing and a way to gain self-consciousness through struggling against nature and to learn how to survive in the nature, while providing a good opportunity to travel. Particularly for the people, who by falling apart from the nature and their own realm under the heavy stress of the rushing rhythm of the big towns became desperate, adventure traveling is the best way to get rest and to get a mental nourishment. The natural beauty and cultural heritage of Anatolia offers us is much more beyond those known so far. This land, with a history over 10.000 years, offers unequaled beauties of both nature and culture. Equinox Travel, providing successful travel services for the guests from all over the world opened the mysterious gates of the Mediterranean, the Taurus Mountains, Cappadocia and the Black Sea for those who are seeking to get the taste of the country-side through adventure programs led by a staff of archaeologists and specialist guides with a strong academic background.You may choose to live the fascinating experience to be in the midst of the nature, to see the mountain villages and woodlands, discover the ancient sites far out of sight, while struggling with the difficult terrain, the dirt-roads and the rivers through a trekking, jeep, dirt bike or rafting adventure.
ACTIVE BLUE CRUISES
ACTIVE BLUE CRUISESTurkey and turquoise coast of Turkey on a wooden yacht. One of the most interesting and fascinating areas of Anatolia can be discovered through a cruise aboard a traditional Turkish "gulet".You wake up to a beautiful day over the turquoise waters of Mediterranean. The professional crew will prepare your breakfast on deck while you are taking your morning swim. You will cruise along one of the oldest sailing routes with stops for swimming and daily shore excursions and scenic hikes and walks. Your guide will lead you to the less-visited ancient sites or special spots in the vicinity. In the meantime, the gulet crew will be cleaning up your cabins and deck just like you are staying in a deluxe hotel. Your traditional Turkish cuisine based lunch will be prepared while you are refreshing in the cool waters after your excursion.The rest of the day will be relaxing, taking an afternoon nap, sun bathing and swimming until the tea time!Your day will end by anchoring fantastic secluded coves and having your rich menu dinner -mostly supported by fish caught by the crew. After dinner, singing and chatting with your friends under the stars will add another unforgettable day to your memories.We design your cruise on popular routes, none of which have backtracking for disembarkation. Harbors are close to the airports, transfers for the flights are never time consuming. The boats we offer are among the best gulets of Turkey with which we have exclusive contracts. All of them are traditional deluxe gulets having ample air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms.The Turquoise CoastWith its unmatched natural beauty and fascinating ancient ruins, Turkey's Mediterranean coast has much to offer. The turquoise waters provide a beautiful contrast with the green pine trees and mountains that sweep right down to the coast. The villages and towns scattered along the coast are inhabited by the most hospitable people. You will have an unmatched vacation cruising along the Lycian coast aboard a Turkish gulet. Carefully planned itineraries(Classical Turkey: Land & Sea & Cruising the Turquoise Coast) allow you to go ashore and walk among the ruins of ancient settlements. Your tour leader will be with you throughout the trip to organize land tours and help with any request you may have. Experienced crew members make every effort to help you enjoy your vacation. SeasonGenerally, the Turkish Mediterranean coast is calm between May and October. During the summer, a refreshing breeze begins to blow around noon and diminishes by late afternoon. This cool breeze makes cruising a pleasure. Seasickness is usually not a concern on our cruises. The sea is usually calm and, if necessary, the captain will cruise early in the morning to ensure a smooth passage. All of the marinas and coves we anchor in are well-protected waters. Sailing aboard a gulet allows you to fully appreciate the many enchanting small bays and coves that you may never experience on a larger boat.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL & CULTURAL TOURS
ARCHAEOLOGICAL & CULTURAL TOURSWestern Turkey & CappadociaIncludes the highlights of Turkey like Istanbul, Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Aphrodisias, Kaunos, Xanthos, the Lycian capital, the sunken cities around Kekova, Myra and the church of St. Nicholas, mountain sites of Lycia like Arykanda and Elmalı, the Pisidian stronghold of Termessos, Pamphylian cities of Perge and Aspendos, Konya, the troglodytes, underground cities and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, the Hittite capital of Hattusas, the well-known Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara.Eastern Turkey & Black SeaStarting with graceful Istanbul, Adana and Antakya with the famous Roman Mosaic Museum and the Grotto of St.Peter, Mount Nemrud with colossal statues of the Greco-Persian gods, unusual sights of sacred Urfa and Harran, Diyarbakır, Urartian castles and the solitary Armenian church on the Akdamar island of Van, the sights of magnificent Mt. Ararat and the elaborately carved decorations of the Palace of Ishak Pasha, tea plantations of the Black Sea coast, gorgeous monastery of Sumela.Biblical ToursBeing a cradle for many civilizations, Anatolia has been a birthplace or home for many religions. Starting from the birth of Earth Mother Kybele in Catalhoyuk to the rise and spread of Pagan religions during the antiquity, from early days of Christianity to the peak of Islam, Anatolia has been the center of cultural change throughout the history, thus offering a very good opportunity to observe birth, development and transition of religions through the art forms and material remains.Special Interest ToursTurkey, with her deep history, multicultural social structure and charming geography, is one of the few countries to provide different travel opportunities to many different interest groups. Equinox Travel, making good use of this extraordinary feature of our country offers a wide spectrum of custom-made tours for most of the interest groups. Turkey, with her deep history, multicultural social structure and charming geography, is one of the few countries to provide different travel opportunities to many different interest groups. Equinox Travel, making good use of this extraordinary feature of our country offers a wide spectrum of custom-made tours for most of the interest groups.
Architectural Heritage of Anatolia
Traditional Arts of Anatolia
Culinary Cultures of Anatolia
Photography Tour
Flowers of Anatolia
Architectural Heritage of Anatolia
Traditional Arts of Anatolia
Culinary Cultures of Anatolia
Photography Tour
Flowers of Anatolia
Books and Links
Guide Books
Blue Guide to Istanbul, WW Norton, New York
Knopf Guides: Istanbul
Insight Guides: Turkey
Cadogan Guides: Turkey
Fodor's Turkey
Map
Freytag & Berndt Turkey Road Map
Suggested Reading
Strolling through Istanbul, John Freely, Redhouse Press, Istanbul 1983
Turkey Unveiled, Nicole & Hugh Pope. The Overlook Press, Woodstock, NY, 1977
Turkish Reflections, Mary Settle, 1991
Turkey's Religious Sites, Anna G. Edmonds
Historical & Archaeological Books
Anatolia: Cauldron of Cultures (Lost Civilizations, Vol. 23), Dale M. Brown
Anatolia in the Second Millennium BC (Iconography of Religions Section 15- Mesopotamia and the Near East), M.N. Van Loon, 1997
Ancient Turkey: A Travellers History of Anatolia, Seton Lloyd, 1989
Catalhoyuk A Neolithic Town in Anatolia, J. Mellaart
Early Turkey: An Introduction to Archaeology of Anatolia from Prehistoric through the Lydian Period., Martha Sharp Joukowsky, Jean Blackburn, 1996
The Hittites and their Contemporaries in Asia Minor, J.G.Macqueen
Early Highland Peoples of Anatolia, Seton Lloyd
The Kingdom of the Hittites, Trevor Bryce
Ecology and Empire: The Structure of the Urartian State, Paul E. Zimansky
Mausolus, Hornblower
The Historical Archaeology of Northern Caria, Ronald T. Marchere
Ancient Ruins and Civilizations of Turkey, Ekrem Akurgal, Istanbul 1970
The Troad, John M. Cook, Oxford 1973
Hattusa, The capital of Hittites, Kurt Bittel
Cave Monasteries of Byzantine Cappadocia, Lynn Rolley, 1986
Aphrodisias, Kenan Erim, Istanbul 1989
Dynastic Lycia: A political history of the Lycians and their relations with foreign powers, C. 545 - 362 BC., Antony G. Keen, 1998
Lycian Turkey: An Archaeological Guide, George E. Bean
Aegean Turkey, George E. Bean
Turkey's Southern Shore, George E. Bean
Turkey Beyond Meander, George E. Bean
History of Art in Phrygia, Lydia, Caria, and Lycia, George Perrot
The Ionians and Hellenism, A study of the Cultural Achievements of the early Greek Inhabitants of Asia Minor., C.J.Emlyn - Jones
Architectural Books
How the Greeks Built Cities, R.E.Wycherley
General Links
www.tourismturkey.org
The Turkish Tourism office in New York. A comprehensive site about Turkey.
www.travel.state.gov/travel_warnings.html
U.S. State Department's Travel Warnings and Consular Information Sheet.
Archaeology Links
Troy
Official website of the German Archaeological Team excavating the well-known site of the Iliad of Homeros.
Çatalhöyük
Official website of Çatalhöyük, the first urban settlement in the world.
Interactive Museum of Turkey
A brilliant website of virtual tours of museums in Turkey including Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, Rahmi Koç Museum, etc.
Alisarhöyük
An abstract from the Bulletin of the American School of Oriental Research by Ronald L. Gorny.
Bakla Tepe Excavations
Comprehensive information on the excavations made at an early settlement of Ionia.
Liman Tepe
A comprehensive site about the ongoing excavations at Liman Tepe, another early settlement of ancient Ionia.
TAY Project
An ongoing project to build a comprehensive database of all archaeological sites in Turkey.
Priene: The Apogee of the Hellenistic Domestic Architecture in Anatolia
An article by Lale Ozgenel.
Anatolian Archaeology on the Net
A long list of Anatolian archaeological web sites.
Archaeological Sites & Photos
Comprehensive Archaeological Photos and News.
Nevali Cori
Excavations at Nevali Cori, revealed clues that the Neolithic Age had started between 12,000 and 10,000 B.C. in this site, at least 500 years earlier than at Catalhoyuk and Hacilar.
Patara
Lycian city where Santa Claus was born, center for Lycian league that inspired American Constitution
Archaeology links provided by Archaeologist Umit Isin
Other Links
Travel Guide Georgia
If you plan to travel to Georgia then our guide can help, with everything from hotels to restaurants.
Blue Guide to Istanbul, WW Norton, New York
Knopf Guides: Istanbul
Insight Guides: Turkey
Cadogan Guides: Turkey
Fodor's Turkey
Map
Freytag & Berndt Turkey Road Map
Suggested Reading
Strolling through Istanbul, John Freely, Redhouse Press, Istanbul 1983
Turkey Unveiled, Nicole & Hugh Pope. The Overlook Press, Woodstock, NY, 1977
Turkish Reflections, Mary Settle, 1991
Turkey's Religious Sites, Anna G. Edmonds
Historical & Archaeological Books
Anatolia: Cauldron of Cultures (Lost Civilizations, Vol. 23), Dale M. Brown
Anatolia in the Second Millennium BC (Iconography of Religions Section 15- Mesopotamia and the Near East), M.N. Van Loon, 1997
Ancient Turkey: A Travellers History of Anatolia, Seton Lloyd, 1989
Catalhoyuk A Neolithic Town in Anatolia, J. Mellaart
Early Turkey: An Introduction to Archaeology of Anatolia from Prehistoric through the Lydian Period., Martha Sharp Joukowsky, Jean Blackburn, 1996
The Hittites and their Contemporaries in Asia Minor, J.G.Macqueen
Early Highland Peoples of Anatolia, Seton Lloyd
The Kingdom of the Hittites, Trevor Bryce
Ecology and Empire: The Structure of the Urartian State, Paul E. Zimansky
Mausolus, Hornblower
The Historical Archaeology of Northern Caria, Ronald T. Marchere
Ancient Ruins and Civilizations of Turkey, Ekrem Akurgal, Istanbul 1970
The Troad, John M. Cook, Oxford 1973
Hattusa, The capital of Hittites, Kurt Bittel
Cave Monasteries of Byzantine Cappadocia, Lynn Rolley, 1986
Aphrodisias, Kenan Erim, Istanbul 1989
Dynastic Lycia: A political history of the Lycians and their relations with foreign powers, C. 545 - 362 BC., Antony G. Keen, 1998
Lycian Turkey: An Archaeological Guide, George E. Bean
Aegean Turkey, George E. Bean
Turkey's Southern Shore, George E. Bean
Turkey Beyond Meander, George E. Bean
History of Art in Phrygia, Lydia, Caria, and Lycia, George Perrot
The Ionians and Hellenism, A study of the Cultural Achievements of the early Greek Inhabitants of Asia Minor., C.J.Emlyn - Jones
Architectural Books
How the Greeks Built Cities, R.E.Wycherley
General Links
www.tourismturkey.org
The Turkish Tourism office in New York. A comprehensive site about Turkey.
www.travel.state.gov/travel_warnings.html
U.S. State Department's Travel Warnings and Consular Information Sheet.
Archaeology Links
Troy
Official website of the German Archaeological Team excavating the well-known site of the Iliad of Homeros.
Çatalhöyük
Official website of Çatalhöyük, the first urban settlement in the world.
Interactive Museum of Turkey
A brilliant website of virtual tours of museums in Turkey including Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, Rahmi Koç Museum, etc.
Alisarhöyük
An abstract from the Bulletin of the American School of Oriental Research by Ronald L. Gorny.
Bakla Tepe Excavations
Comprehensive information on the excavations made at an early settlement of Ionia.
Liman Tepe
A comprehensive site about the ongoing excavations at Liman Tepe, another early settlement of ancient Ionia.
TAY Project
An ongoing project to build a comprehensive database of all archaeological sites in Turkey.
Priene: The Apogee of the Hellenistic Domestic Architecture in Anatolia
An article by Lale Ozgenel.
Anatolian Archaeology on the Net
A long list of Anatolian archaeological web sites.
Archaeological Sites & Photos
Comprehensive Archaeological Photos and News.
Nevali Cori
Excavations at Nevali Cori, revealed clues that the Neolithic Age had started between 12,000 and 10,000 B.C. in this site, at least 500 years earlier than at Catalhoyuk and Hacilar.
Patara
Lycian city where Santa Claus was born, center for Lycian league that inspired American Constitution
Archaeology links provided by Archaeologist Umit Isin
Other Links
Travel Guide Georgia
If you plan to travel to Georgia then our guide can help, with everything from hotels to restaurants.
Geography
The Marmara Region is located both in Europe and Asia. The European side comprises of rolling plains and low hills, while the Asian side includes low hills and higher mountains (Uludag, for instance). The land on both sides are excellent for farming and industry. This region, with an average rainfall of 670 mm, is the second most humid region in Turkey. Among the crops of the region are sunflower, tobacco, grains, grapes, and olives of good quality. Silk production is one of the common occupations in the area.The Aegean Region covers the land on the Aegean coast and the hinterland extending to central Anatolia with fertile plains, river valleys, and high mountains. The word "meander" is derived from the river Menderes, the ancient Meander, which "meanders" its way through a wide alluvial plain. Varying patches of forests, olive groves, fig and fruit orchards, and tobacco and sunflower fields are the main features of the region. The climate is characterized by the typical Mediterranean climate of hot summers and mild winters.The Mediterranean Region includes the land on the Mediterranean coast, the Taurus mountain range, and its plateaus extending all along the southern shore. The landscape is characterized by the Taurus range, immediately rising from the coastline and reaching as high as 3,000 meters in some parts, and the wide plains of Pamphylia and Çukurova. The main products are citrus fruits, bananas, cotton, sesame, and vegetables. The semi-nomadic high plateaus of the Taurus range also offer good conditions for raising livestock and grains.The Southeastern Anatolia Region is a land of rolling steppe with a dry climate. Except for the wide wasteland, agriculture is the main occupation in the irrigated valleys and basins. Two major rivers (Euphrates and Tigris) and the large dams built over them irrigate the area. Among the major product are grains, rice, grapes, and vegetables.The Eastern Anatolia Region is the largest and most mountainous region of Anatolia. The average altitude is 1,500-2,000 M (4,900-6,550 ft.). The highest mountain of the country, Mt. Ararat, is located in this region. Long and daunting winters (from September to June), makes life difficult here. Agriculture is confined to grains such as wheat and barley, while in the south and the north the climate allows for raising of livestock.The Central Anatolia Region is a vast plateau situated among the high mountain ranges. The land is mainly a rolling steppe with dry, hot summers and cold, damp winters. The main products of this region are grains and livestock.The Black Sea Region covers the area on the 1,700 km Black Sea coast. The high mountains lining the coast form a more or Black Sea mountain house less isolated area from the inland part of Turkey. The rainfall varies between two or three times the country's average. Due to this humid climate and fertile soil, the region is the most densely vegetated area of the country. Agricultural products include corn, tea, hazelnut, and tobacco. Livestock is widely raised outside of the towns and by-products like milk, butter, and cream are famous all over the country.
Culture and Politics
With its deep history and large ethnic mosaic, Turkey is a culturally rich country. The languages, religions, art, literature, and traditions of various indigenous and migrating cultures in this "melting pot" of history resulted in the broad cultural spectrum of modern Turkey. There is no aspect of modern culture that cannot be connected to the history of Anatolia. Literally described, Anatolia is one of the best locations in the world to offer a good understanding of the concept of cultural transition.LanguageThe official language of the Turkish Republic is Turkish, which was introduced by the first Turkish tribes to migrate to Anatolia around the 10th century . Though the modern Turkish spoken in Turkey is of Asian origin, it differs more or less from those of other Turkish communities in the world. Even the Turkish dialects spoken in various parts of the country today show some differences in pronunciation and expressions.Black Sea village girlAmong the other languages spoken in modern Turkey are Greek, Ladino, Armenian, Kurdish, Georgian, Lazish, Arabic, and Assyrian, all of which clearly reflect the influence of other cultures.ReligionAs Turkey is a secular country, there is no official religion. While 99% of the total population are Moslems, the remaining 1 percent are of varying religions, mostly Jewish and Christian. According to the Lausanne Treaty signed on July 24, 1923 these non-Moslem communities were given the right to have legal and political equality, to use their mother languages in the courts, to establish their own educational institutions, and to hold religious ceremonies.EducationWith the secularization of public policy by the foundation of the Republic in 1923, education in Turkey underwent a radical change. Now the aim of the Turkish educational system is to produce productive citizens with contemporary educational standards.Apart from private schools, schools in Turkey are free of charge up to the higher education level. Turkish school childrenThe mandatory part of the Turkish education system is primary school for eight years. The first five years consists of an introduction to basic subjects under the guidance of one teacher. The next three years, a specialist teacher is assigned to each subject. In addition to the basic subjects, students have to choose from one of three foreign language classes: English, French, or German. Religion classes are optional.Secondary education is three years and consists of lessons in general knowledge at the intermediate level.Higher education is comprised of Universities and Colleges for professional education. Entrance to the higher education requires two separate admission exams held by the Higher Education Council. Along with the several private universities, there are 58 state universities which charge an annual fee of 100-300 US dollars.LifestyleThough the lifestyles of Turkey's residents differ from one social group to another, it is possible to describe them under main categories according to their settlement types.Cities, the largest type of settlement in Turkey with populations over 20,000, have organized social and administrative groups. About 23% of the total population live in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, the three largest cities in Turkey. The total population of 57,000,000, according to the general census of 1997, is now assumed to be around 70,000,000. The continuous migration from rural to urban areas since the 1950's has brought on many problems. Besides the modern urban settlements, illegal settlement groups called gecekondu, which means "built overnight", have appeared within cities over the years.The second type of settlement are towns, with a population of 2,000 to 20,000. Depending on their geographic and economic conditions, they have varying features from rural more organized settlements. However, the most distinctive character of towns is a rather rural and conservative lifestyle in comparison with urban centers. The traditional hierarchical organization of family, where the individuals are economically dependent on the family, and the traditional social organization, where relationships are underlined by the community, are still prominent features of towns.Horse carriage in CappadociaVillages, on the other hand, constituting 54% of the total population, are characterized by an agriculture-based economy. While in many villages modern machinery is used, depending on geographical location, there are still some villages dependent on human labor alone. As a result of this agricultural economy, life in villages reflects a completely rural and traditional style. Most of the traditional art forms such as weaving, pottery, woodworking, as well as customs like wedding ceremonies, folk dramas, dances, and festivals, some of which are a continuation of Asian shamanism and ancient Anatolian Dionysian rituals, are preserved in their original forms.Administration of the StateThe Turkish Grand National Assembly (TGNA) is the legislative power of the Turkish Republic. The members, who must have a primary school education, a security clearance, and be above 30 years of age, are elected by the whole nation every five years. The total number of deputies is 550.The president, who is elected for a period of seven years, supervises the state departments and all procedures described in the Constitution. Among his duties are publishing and returning laws to parliament for revision, deciding the renewal of elections, and appointing the prime minister. The cabinet, which is formed by the prime minister, consists of ministers who are responsible to the legislature.Supplementary to the state administration system, there is also a local administration system to respond to the needs of the people living in specific settlements.Municipalities are the first of three types of local administration formed by local elections held every five years. Municipalities, with the mayor acting as the chief executive and an assembly, are responsible to meet all civic needs such as providing drinking water, electricity, public transportation, and sewer systems.The provincial local governments, with a governor assigned by the central administration as chief executive of cities and towns, acts according to the measures of the central administration. The provincial local government is the representative of the central government and is responsible for supervising the functioning of the administration.The third type of local administration is the administration of the villages by a "muhtar" as the chief executive and the village assembly, elected by the residents for a period of five years.
History of Turkey
History of Turkey
Turkey is considered to be one of the richest countries in terms of archaeology and is by far the biggest "open air museum" of the world. It has always been a bridge between the East and West and has been noted by scholars as the "melting pot" of various cultures where classical culture was shaped. From the first known urban city settlement of "Çatalhöyük" to the historically famous Troy and from the Ionians (the Anatolian Greeks) to the greatest empires of the world, the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman, many cultures were established and indeed flourished in and around this huge "melting pot".
Today, a traveler to Turkey can observe the features of all of these cultures. Not only are they visible in their marvelous remains, but in their impacts on the daily lives of Turks today, which differs greatly from one area to another.
The Prehistoric Period
100,000 - 8,000 B.C.
The earliest cave settlements of the world can be seen, especially at Karain, Belbasi, and Beldibi caves, where humanity made its earliest appearance in the world.
8,000 - 2,000 B.C.
The first urban city settlement of Çatalhöyük, the earliest place of agriculture, Hacilar, and numerous mounds of the Neolithic and Chalcolithic period can be seen in Turkey. The museums are full of remarkable remains from this very early cultural period of humanity.
The Neolithic period, meaning the "new stone age", started in Anatolia about 8,000 B.C., where the people of Çatalhöyük and Hacilar, among others, were the first to leave their caves and start living in "houses" and small cities.
The most significant feature of the Neolithic period is agriculture and pottery. Following the Neolithic, came the Chalcolithic period which marked the appearance of metal tools.
These two very important periods came to an end with the discovery of bronze, a mixture of copper and tin. Thus, the Bronze age begins, considered to be one of the biggest revolutions in the history of mankind.
The large trade industry between Anatolia and Assyria brought written history to Anatolia in about 2,000 B.C. Kayseri, Kanesh and Karum, appear to be the first trade centers of the world, where thousands of clay tablets have been found relating to this trade.
The dominating culture of Anatolia during this period was the "Hatti" culture, from which came the name of the first big empire of Anatolia, the "Hittite Empire". The Hittites adopted everything from the "Hatti" people except their language, which was the first Indo-European language spoken in Anatolia. The Hittites changed the face of the country. Their detailed and sophisticated state archives, not only enabled us to reconfirm the "Tell-el-Amarna" tablets of Egypt, but also revealed the history and relations between cities on the western coast of Asia Minor in the 2nd millennium B.C. This eventually changed our entire concept of the civilization of the "known world".
Troy seems to be the dominating culture during this period in the West, and several other Aegean and Mediterranean cultures are quoted by the Hittites, such as the Lukka people, later known to us as the Lycians.
By mid-2,000 B.C., the general view of Anatolia confirms the existence of a highly developed city-state system, mainly controlled by the Hittites. The city-states' high culture and wealth, which came mostly from mining, agriculture, and trade, allowed Anatolia to enjoy one of its most brilliant and prosperous periods of history. Unfortunately, this wealth also attracted some of its neighbors.
In about 1,200 B.C., a very large raid descended upon Anatolia, and possibly along with the help of a great earthquake, almost all of these city-states, including the Hittites, met their demise. This invasion was later told by Homer in the Iliad.
This raid and its subsequent destruction was so severe that none of the city-states could ever recover again. The cultures vanished, not to be recognized again. Even the greatest empire of the world, the Hittite, was entirely forgotten by the Greeks and the Romans. The Hittites were not rediscovered until a scholar found them in the Old Testament in the 19th century.
This period is known by the scholars as the Dark Ages of Anatolia.
The Classical Period
Throughout the 8th and 7th centuries B.C., we see Anatolia awakening once again. Several civilizations start to appear in different areas, whose cultures shape the "Classical Greek period" of the world. From north to south along the Aegean and Mediterranean, the following are some of the important cities and areas:
Troas, Troy, Alexandria Troas
Aeolya, Pergamon
Ionia, Miletos, Smyrna, Ephesos, Samos, Chios
Lydia, Sardes
Phyrgia, Midas city
Caria, Halikarnassos, Aphrodisias
Lycia, Xanthos, Patara
Pamphylia, Perge, Aspendos
Pisidia, Antioch, Termessos
It is not possible to list all of the cities and cultures, but Urartians, Cilicans, Mysians, Traces, and many others can be listed as well.
Certainly cities like Pergamum, Ephesus, and Miletus led the way. The first paper was used in Pergamum, hence the term "parchment". The first money was minted by the Lydians. The official Greek language was the language of Miletus, which Athens accepted in the 5th century B.C. Both the Persian invasion and the invasion of Alexander the Great influenced the culture and carried it to all the other areas. Three of the ancient wonders of the world are located in and around Anatolia.
The Hellenistic and Roman Periods
The Hellenistic period, where the Greek cultures were mainly formed, was subject to several wars and invasions. Great cities were established and destroyed during this period. The domination of several kings and rulers finally came to an end when the Roman Empire enlarged its borders to encompass many parts of Asia, making Ephesus the capital of the Asian province of Rome.
Perhaps, not only the cities of Anatolia, but the whole world which was inhabited then, lived its most prosperous and wealthy period during the Roman Empire. The richness and wealth of this period can best be observed in several cities of Anatolia. Throughout the 1st and 4th centuries A.D., Anatolia doubtless enjoyed the most brilliant period of her entire known history.
Hundreds of cities with thousands of remains from this period can be seen all over the country.
The idea of a single god was first established in Egypt, then officially in the Old Testament. The early Anatolian Greek philosophers, including Xenephon, claimed the first idea of a single god for the Western World. This one god, who, he explained, "sees everywhere, thinks everywhere, and hears everywhere", was much different than the many Greek gods.
Christianity, Medieval and Modern
This idea of one god, shaped mainly in Anatolia, was perhaps the most important event leading towards Christianity. The seven churches of the Revelation are found in Anatolia. Ephesus, the cult center of the traditional Anatolian virgin mother goddess, became the center of the early Christians, where the Virgin Mary was worshipped. It was also here that she was accepted as the "Mother of God".
St. Paul was born in Turkey. John spent almost all of his life in Turkey. St. Nicholas was born in Patara, a Lycian town, and became Bishop of Myra and of Lycia.
Therefore, it is not surprising to find the first and most important Christian Empire, the Byzantine, in Turkey. Cities like Istanbul are flattered with numerous and wonderful remains from this period.
1070 The Turks arrive...
A new movement of immigration to Anatolia came this time from the East, from Central Asia, the homeland of the Turkish tribes. In 1071 A.D., the Seljuk Turks, defeating the Byzantine armies at the eastern gates of Asia Minor, came in and settled in central Anatolia, around the modern town of Konya, known as the center of the Whirling Dervishes. The Seljuks reestablished trade, architecture, political stability, and religion. The 11th and 12th centuries were thus flourishing periods for Anatolia. Several intellectuals from all over the world came and settled in Konya, including Mevlana Cellaledin-i Rumi, who became the founder of the Mevlevi order, well known to the Western world as the “Whirling Dervishes”. Neither the Arabs nor the Byzantines, who were vital enemies of the Seljuks, were able to put an end to this empire. It was the Mongolians, another tribe that marched through central Asia with their leader Hulagu, who defeated the Seljuks. They were not interested in staying here, however, so Anatolia was once again left without a major authority until the Ottoman’s took power.
The major rule of history never fails. There is always a beginning, a rise, and finally an end for all great empires. The Byzantines finally fell under the rule of the growing Ottoman Empire in 1453 when Mehmet the Conqueror captured Byzantine. A new era for Anatolia began.
The Ottoman period was the last big empire of Anatolia, where the existing cultures were well mixed with the Islamic and Turkish culture. The state policy of the Ottomans was tolerance, leaving all people under their rule entirely free to pursue native religious and cultural practices. This allowed a very interesting mix of cultures to develop in Turkey.
When the Ottomans lost the First World War, almost the entire country was once again invaded. This time Turkey embarked on a new journey towards a modern, secular republic under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal, known as "Atatürk".
Today, Turkish citizens are proud of being members of one of the first modern countries of Europe, where women are ensured equal rights, and of a democratic republic in the modern world.
Turkey is considered to be one of the richest countries in terms of archaeology and is by far the biggest "open air museum" of the world. It has always been a bridge between the East and West and has been noted by scholars as the "melting pot" of various cultures where classical culture was shaped. From the first known urban city settlement of "Çatalhöyük" to the historically famous Troy and from the Ionians (the Anatolian Greeks) to the greatest empires of the world, the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman, many cultures were established and indeed flourished in and around this huge "melting pot".
Today, a traveler to Turkey can observe the features of all of these cultures. Not only are they visible in their marvelous remains, but in their impacts on the daily lives of Turks today, which differs greatly from one area to another.
The Prehistoric Period
100,000 - 8,000 B.C.
The earliest cave settlements of the world can be seen, especially at Karain, Belbasi, and Beldibi caves, where humanity made its earliest appearance in the world.
8,000 - 2,000 B.C.
The first urban city settlement of Çatalhöyük, the earliest place of agriculture, Hacilar, and numerous mounds of the Neolithic and Chalcolithic period can be seen in Turkey. The museums are full of remarkable remains from this very early cultural period of humanity.
The Neolithic period, meaning the "new stone age", started in Anatolia about 8,000 B.C., where the people of Çatalhöyük and Hacilar, among others, were the first to leave their caves and start living in "houses" and small cities.
The most significant feature of the Neolithic period is agriculture and pottery. Following the Neolithic, came the Chalcolithic period which marked the appearance of metal tools.
These two very important periods came to an end with the discovery of bronze, a mixture of copper and tin. Thus, the Bronze age begins, considered to be one of the biggest revolutions in the history of mankind.
The large trade industry between Anatolia and Assyria brought written history to Anatolia in about 2,000 B.C. Kayseri, Kanesh and Karum, appear to be the first trade centers of the world, where thousands of clay tablets have been found relating to this trade.
The dominating culture of Anatolia during this period was the "Hatti" culture, from which came the name of the first big empire of Anatolia, the "Hittite Empire". The Hittites adopted everything from the "Hatti" people except their language, which was the first Indo-European language spoken in Anatolia. The Hittites changed the face of the country. Their detailed and sophisticated state archives, not only enabled us to reconfirm the "Tell-el-Amarna" tablets of Egypt, but also revealed the history and relations between cities on the western coast of Asia Minor in the 2nd millennium B.C. This eventually changed our entire concept of the civilization of the "known world".
Troy seems to be the dominating culture during this period in the West, and several other Aegean and Mediterranean cultures are quoted by the Hittites, such as the Lukka people, later known to us as the Lycians.
By mid-2,000 B.C., the general view of Anatolia confirms the existence of a highly developed city-state system, mainly controlled by the Hittites. The city-states' high culture and wealth, which came mostly from mining, agriculture, and trade, allowed Anatolia to enjoy one of its most brilliant and prosperous periods of history. Unfortunately, this wealth also attracted some of its neighbors.
In about 1,200 B.C., a very large raid descended upon Anatolia, and possibly along with the help of a great earthquake, almost all of these city-states, including the Hittites, met their demise. This invasion was later told by Homer in the Iliad.
This raid and its subsequent destruction was so severe that none of the city-states could ever recover again. The cultures vanished, not to be recognized again. Even the greatest empire of the world, the Hittite, was entirely forgotten by the Greeks and the Romans. The Hittites were not rediscovered until a scholar found them in the Old Testament in the 19th century.
This period is known by the scholars as the Dark Ages of Anatolia.
The Classical Period
Throughout the 8th and 7th centuries B.C., we see Anatolia awakening once again. Several civilizations start to appear in different areas, whose cultures shape the "Classical Greek period" of the world. From north to south along the Aegean and Mediterranean, the following are some of the important cities and areas:
Troas, Troy, Alexandria Troas
Aeolya, Pergamon
Ionia, Miletos, Smyrna, Ephesos, Samos, Chios
Lydia, Sardes
Phyrgia, Midas city
Caria, Halikarnassos, Aphrodisias
Lycia, Xanthos, Patara
Pamphylia, Perge, Aspendos
Pisidia, Antioch, Termessos
It is not possible to list all of the cities and cultures, but Urartians, Cilicans, Mysians, Traces, and many others can be listed as well.
Certainly cities like Pergamum, Ephesus, and Miletus led the way. The first paper was used in Pergamum, hence the term "parchment". The first money was minted by the Lydians. The official Greek language was the language of Miletus, which Athens accepted in the 5th century B.C. Both the Persian invasion and the invasion of Alexander the Great influenced the culture and carried it to all the other areas. Three of the ancient wonders of the world are located in and around Anatolia.
The Hellenistic and Roman Periods
The Hellenistic period, where the Greek cultures were mainly formed, was subject to several wars and invasions. Great cities were established and destroyed during this period. The domination of several kings and rulers finally came to an end when the Roman Empire enlarged its borders to encompass many parts of Asia, making Ephesus the capital of the Asian province of Rome.
Perhaps, not only the cities of Anatolia, but the whole world which was inhabited then, lived its most prosperous and wealthy period during the Roman Empire. The richness and wealth of this period can best be observed in several cities of Anatolia. Throughout the 1st and 4th centuries A.D., Anatolia doubtless enjoyed the most brilliant period of her entire known history.
Hundreds of cities with thousands of remains from this period can be seen all over the country.
The idea of a single god was first established in Egypt, then officially in the Old Testament. The early Anatolian Greek philosophers, including Xenephon, claimed the first idea of a single god for the Western World. This one god, who, he explained, "sees everywhere, thinks everywhere, and hears everywhere", was much different than the many Greek gods.
Christianity, Medieval and Modern
This idea of one god, shaped mainly in Anatolia, was perhaps the most important event leading towards Christianity. The seven churches of the Revelation are found in Anatolia. Ephesus, the cult center of the traditional Anatolian virgin mother goddess, became the center of the early Christians, where the Virgin Mary was worshipped. It was also here that she was accepted as the "Mother of God".
St. Paul was born in Turkey. John spent almost all of his life in Turkey. St. Nicholas was born in Patara, a Lycian town, and became Bishop of Myra and of Lycia.
Therefore, it is not surprising to find the first and most important Christian Empire, the Byzantine, in Turkey. Cities like Istanbul are flattered with numerous and wonderful remains from this period.
1070 The Turks arrive...
A new movement of immigration to Anatolia came this time from the East, from Central Asia, the homeland of the Turkish tribes. In 1071 A.D., the Seljuk Turks, defeating the Byzantine armies at the eastern gates of Asia Minor, came in and settled in central Anatolia, around the modern town of Konya, known as the center of the Whirling Dervishes. The Seljuks reestablished trade, architecture, political stability, and religion. The 11th and 12th centuries were thus flourishing periods for Anatolia. Several intellectuals from all over the world came and settled in Konya, including Mevlana Cellaledin-i Rumi, who became the founder of the Mevlevi order, well known to the Western world as the “Whirling Dervishes”. Neither the Arabs nor the Byzantines, who were vital enemies of the Seljuks, were able to put an end to this empire. It was the Mongolians, another tribe that marched through central Asia with their leader Hulagu, who defeated the Seljuks. They were not interested in staying here, however, so Anatolia was once again left without a major authority until the Ottoman’s took power.
The major rule of history never fails. There is always a beginning, a rise, and finally an end for all great empires. The Byzantines finally fell under the rule of the growing Ottoman Empire in 1453 when Mehmet the Conqueror captured Byzantine. A new era for Anatolia began.
The Ottoman period was the last big empire of Anatolia, where the existing cultures were well mixed with the Islamic and Turkish culture. The state policy of the Ottomans was tolerance, leaving all people under their rule entirely free to pursue native religious and cultural practices. This allowed a very interesting mix of cultures to develop in Turkey.
When the Ottomans lost the First World War, almost the entire country was once again invaded. This time Turkey embarked on a new journey towards a modern, secular republic under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal, known as "Atatürk".
Today, Turkish citizens are proud of being members of one of the first modern countries of Europe, where women are ensured equal rights, and of a democratic republic in the modern world.
Turkish Phrases
English Turkish Pronunciation Hello Merhaba mer-ha-ba Welcome Hoş geldiniz hōsh gel-dee-neez in reply to Welcome Hoş bulduk hōsh bull-dook Thank you Teşekkür ederim, sağol te-she-koor e-de-rim, saa-ōl You are welcome Bir şey değil beer shay deel How are you? Nasılsınız? na-sill-si-niz? I am fine. İyiyim. ee-yee-yeem What is your name? İsminiz ne? eez-mee-neez ne? My name is … Benim adım … be-neem a-dim Yes Evet e-vet No Hayır ha-yur Please Lütfen loot-fen Good morning Günaydın goo-naee-dun Good evening İyi akşamlar ee-yee ak-sham-lar Good night İyi geceler ee-yee ge-je-ler What time is it? Saat kaç? sa-at kach? Do you speak English? İngilizce biliyormusunuz? een-gee-leez-je bee-lee-yōr-moo-soo-nooz? How much is it? Ne kadar? ne ka-dar? Where is …? … nerede? … ne-re-de? … the restaurant? Restoran nerede? res-tō-ran … … the hotel? Otel nerede? ō-tel … … the restroom? Tuvalet nerede? too-va-let … … the bank? Banka nerede? ban-ka … I would like… … istiyorum. … ee-stee-yōr-room … a beer. Bira istiyorum. bee-ra … … water. Su istiyorum. soo … … tea. Çay istiyorum. chai … … coffee. Kahve istiyorum. kah-ve … … milk. Süt istiyorum. soot … … ice. Buz istiyorum. booz … … bread. Ekmek istiyorum. ek-mek … … sugar. Şeker istiyorum. she-ker … … white wine. Beyaz şarap istiyorum. be-yaz sha-rap … … red wine. Kırmızı şarap istiyorum. kur-mu-zu sha-rap … … salt. Tuz istiyorum. tooz … … pepper. Biber istiyorum. bee-ber … Breakfast Kahvaltı kah-val-tu Lunch Öğle yemeği ōr-le ye-me-ee Dinner Akşam yemeği ak-sham ye-me-ee Bill/Check Hesap he-sop Compliment to the cook Elinize sağlık e-lee-nee-ze saa-lik Bon a petit Afiyet olsun a-fee-yet ōl-soon Days of the week Sunday Pazar pa-zar Monday Pazartesi pa-zar-te-see Tuesday Salı sa-lu Wednesday Çarşamba char-sham-ba Thursday Perşembe per-shem-be Friday Cuma joo-ma Saturday Cumartesi joo-mar-te-see Numbers One Bir beer Two İki ee-kee Three Üç ooch Four Dört dōrt Five Beş besh Six Altı al-tu Seven Yedi ye-dee Eight Sekiz se-keez Nine Dokuz dō-kooz Ten On ōn Colors Red Kırmızı kur-mu-zu Blue Mavi ma-vee Black Siyah see-ya White Beyaz bā-yaz Yellow Sarı sa-ru
Friday, April 4, 2008
36 Hours in Dubai
YOU name it, Dubai has it. Or if it doesn’t have it, it’s building it. Or if it’s not building it, it’s dredging up an island to put it on. The busiest of the seven United Arab Emirates is growing so fast that its newest developments can only be measured in hummingbird flaps. Blink and you’ll miss the latest superlative. This way to the world’s tallest building. That way to the world’s largest aluminum plant. Coming soon, the world’s longest bridge. Over here to the world’s biggest mall — which, incidentally, is about to be usurped any day now by a bigger one.
1) GETTING YOUR WINGS
The only way to wrap your head around the sheer scale of Dubai is from the sky. Take a cab out to Jebel Ali (about 45 minutes from downtown), the departure point for the Seawings seaplane company (971-4-883-3532; www.seawings.ae). For 795 dirhams (about $212 at 3.75 dirhams to the dollar), you get a 30-minute tour of the city from 1,500 feet overhead: the iconic sail profile of the Burj Al Arab, the impossibly high Burj Dubai building and the artificial archipelagoes fashioned in the shapes of palm trees and continents. Whatever you think of them — fascinating, silly, ecologically catastrophic — you won’t forget your first tropical “Antarctica” island.
8 p.m.2) RUNNING HOT AND COLD
Why diners need to be escorted by white-gloved attendants from the lobby of the new pyramid-shaped Raffles Hotel to the elevator bank remains unclear. But when you arrive at the Fire & Ice Restaurant (Sheikh Rashid Road, Wafi; 971-4-324-8888; www.dubai.raffles.com), the place can only be described as warm and inviting: exposed brick walls, leather chairs and flattering lighting. But it’s not without its gimmicks. The open-air kitchen is ringed by fire, and the “ice tartar” dishes are injected with liquid nitrogen so they emit a milky white vapor. The menu is vast (it calls itself “trans-ethnic”), so make it easy on yourself and order the tasting menu. Mine started with crab cakes and apple salad, followed by seared sea bass, and ended with chocolate tart. Dinner, including wine pairings, is about 700 dirhams.
11 p.m.3) BARROOM WITH A VIEW
This is a city determined to raise the bar — literally. If you ever thought the Great Pyramids of Egypt were missing tequila shooters and an observation deck, China Moon Champagne Bar is the place for you. Ensconced within the glass apex of the Raffles Hotel, it is one of the hottest — and highest — new bars in Dubai. But what makes it really memorable is not the giant pharaoh head guarding the stairway, or the 130 dirhams you’ll lay down for a glass of Veuve Clicquot. It’s the view: 360 degrees of twinkling sprawl stretching out to the Arabian Desert.
Saturday
10 a.m.4) ABOUT FACE
A Dubai hotel is not a Dubai hotel without a spa, and among the grandest (and newest) is at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City (Festival City; www.intercontinental.com/dubai; 971-4-701-1111). The spa evokes another world, with flowing strands of neon that resemble seaweed dangling from the ceiling. Slide into a plush white bed, watch Dubai Creek sparkling outside, and let your face be slathered with delicious creams that smell of honey and chamomile (the Just Pure Facial, an hour and 20 minutes, is 550 dirhams).
1 p.m.5) TASTE OF TRADITION
You can take only so much newness before the urge for authenticity strikes. Veer off to one of the city’s most historical restaurants, the curiously named Special Ostadi Restaurant (Al Mussalla Road, Bur Dubai; 971-4-397-1469). The small spot is 41 years old — ancient by Dubai standards — and is run by a boisterous Iranian man named Muhammad Ali Ansari. There are only a handful of tables, all covered in a half century of memorabilia, all packed with local businessmen wearing traditional kaffiyehs or shiny Italian suits. The natives come for one thing: grilled lamb kebabs doused in a tangy yogurt sauce and served with pita, onions, cucumbers, arugula, tomatoes and a fat wedge of lime. Order a dish of sweet dates and a cup of mint tea to wash it all down. The whole meal comes to 20 dirhams.
2 p.m.6) OFF LABEL
In a city of strung-together malls, a quirky boutique is a rare and beautiful thing, even if it’s technically attached to a mall. Sauce (the Village, Jumeirah Beach Road; 971-4-344-7270; www.shopatsauce.com), which recently doubled in size, carries an eclectic mix: funky gowns, wispy tops, ironic T-shirts, travel journals, candles, earrings, stilettos, pillows made of denim, and lamps made of neon bowling pins. Sauce also has a weakness for little-known designers like Tata-Naka, Mira and Third Millennium. It feels as though you’re walking into a really, really big closet — if your closet were designed by Stella McCartney, Anna Sui and a dozen Project Runway contestants.
4 p.m.7) MUSEUM OR SHOP?
The design gallery Traffic (Al Barsha; 971-4-341-8494; www.viatraffic.org) is the Middle East’s answer to Moss in New York City, which means it’s splashier, pricier and more exclusive. The 7,000-square-foot gallery in central Dubai carries ultra-high-end, museum-quality, one-of-a-kind designer chairs, tables, benches and fixtures — furniture so avant-garde as to be deemed “pieces.” Recently on display was a chest of drawers entitled “You Can’t Lay Down Your Memory” by the Dutch design collective Droog for 85,100 dirhams — one of the few versions not in a museum.
8 p.m.8) THAI VIEWS
The city’s dining scene revolves around hotels (maybe because they’re about the only places that serve liquor), and the current hot spot these days is Thiptara Royal Thai at the Palace, a new Sofitel hotel (Old Town; 971-4-428-7888; www.sofitel.com). Thiptara is as remarkable for its spicy Thai food as its vantage point — steps from what will soon be the world’s tallest building: the Burj Dubai. (Construction should wrap up any day now, they swear!) The restaurant features rich wooden fixtures, lakefront views and terrific dishes like spicy green papaya salad (80 dirhams) and the chicken stir-fry with cashews, mushrooms and pineapple (120 dirhams). Afterward, take your after-dinner drink to the hotel’s outdoor pool to see what a 2,000-plus-foot building looks like from the bottom up.
Midnight9) UNDERGROUND CLUB
The closest thing to indigenous culture in Dubai is night life. Make your way to Club Submarine at the Dhow Palace Hotel (Bur Dubai; 971-4-359-9992; www.dhowpalacedubai.com). As the name suggests, there’s a nautical theme, punctuated by curved walls and portholes that look out to nothing. Whether you come for the in-house Samba band, the techno stylings of a local D.J., or arrive on one of the nights they decide to retract the roof, Submarine packs them in. Get ready for a night of drinking, dancing, mingling with strangers and other debaucheries punishable by prison just a few hundred miles away in Saudi Arabia. When it’s time to leave, follow the hipsters to Zataar W Zeit (Sheikh Zayed Road; 971-4-343-1259) for a greasy melted cheese wrap and chilled yogurt drink (31 dirhams).
Sunday
10 a.m.10) BE A SPORT
The Els Club is what you get when you cross 7,500 yards of soft green sod, an opinionated champion golfer and possibly the world’s largest sand trap. Scheduled to open soon for nonmembers, the 18-hole course (www.elsclubdubai.com) was designed by Ernie Els as a compendium of his favorite links from around the world. Nonmember rates will be 695 dirhams. Even if you don’t know a nine iron from an Iron Chef, you should pay a visit. The club is in the middle of Dubai Sports City (971-4-425-1111; www.dubaisportscity.ae), a 50-million-square-foot United Nations of sports. Currently under construction are four stadiums (including ones for cricket and field hockey), a tennis academy, a race track, Manchester United Soccer School, a gymnasium, thousands of private homes and — lest you forget where you are — a sports-themed shopping mall.
THE BASICS
Emirates Airlines flies nonstop flights to Dubai from Newark Airport, starting at about $1,370 in May, according to a recent online search. Americans don’t need a visa to travel to Dubai, just a passport that is valid for roughly six months after your entry date. Some travelers who have Israeli stamps on their passports have reported problems being allowed entry, but Dubai has no official policy banning visitors who have also visited Israel, as do some other countries in the Middle East, like Syria and Libya.
This is the city that claimed the first seven-star hotel, so be ready to pay up. The Park Hyatt Dubai (Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club; 971-4-602-1234; www.dubai.park.hyatt.com) is in the quieter area of Deira and affords great city views. It has a great in-house spa, and a relaxing outdoor bar overlooking the harbor. Rooms start at 1,750 dirhams, about $467 at 3.75 dirhams to the dollar.
If you want to be closer to the action, the new Raffles in Wafi City (Sheikh Rashid Road; 971-4-324-8888; www.dubai.raffles.com) is a good bet. The common areas are vast and daunting, but the rooms are spacious and comfortable. Rooms start at 1,750 dirhams.
The eight-room XVA Gallery in the arty Bastakiya neighborhood (971-4-353-5383; www.xvagallery.com), which feels like a North African souk, may be Dubai’s only boutique hotel. Rooms start at 500 dirhams.
1) GETTING YOUR WINGS
The only way to wrap your head around the sheer scale of Dubai is from the sky. Take a cab out to Jebel Ali (about 45 minutes from downtown), the departure point for the Seawings seaplane company (971-4-883-3532; www.seawings.ae). For 795 dirhams (about $212 at 3.75 dirhams to the dollar), you get a 30-minute tour of the city from 1,500 feet overhead: the iconic sail profile of the Burj Al Arab, the impossibly high Burj Dubai building and the artificial archipelagoes fashioned in the shapes of palm trees and continents. Whatever you think of them — fascinating, silly, ecologically catastrophic — you won’t forget your first tropical “Antarctica” island.
8 p.m.2) RUNNING HOT AND COLD
Why diners need to be escorted by white-gloved attendants from the lobby of the new pyramid-shaped Raffles Hotel to the elevator bank remains unclear. But when you arrive at the Fire & Ice Restaurant (Sheikh Rashid Road, Wafi; 971-4-324-8888; www.dubai.raffles.com), the place can only be described as warm and inviting: exposed brick walls, leather chairs and flattering lighting. But it’s not without its gimmicks. The open-air kitchen is ringed by fire, and the “ice tartar” dishes are injected with liquid nitrogen so they emit a milky white vapor. The menu is vast (it calls itself “trans-ethnic”), so make it easy on yourself and order the tasting menu. Mine started with crab cakes and apple salad, followed by seared sea bass, and ended with chocolate tart. Dinner, including wine pairings, is about 700 dirhams.
11 p.m.3) BARROOM WITH A VIEW
This is a city determined to raise the bar — literally. If you ever thought the Great Pyramids of Egypt were missing tequila shooters and an observation deck, China Moon Champagne Bar is the place for you. Ensconced within the glass apex of the Raffles Hotel, it is one of the hottest — and highest — new bars in Dubai. But what makes it really memorable is not the giant pharaoh head guarding the stairway, or the 130 dirhams you’ll lay down for a glass of Veuve Clicquot. It’s the view: 360 degrees of twinkling sprawl stretching out to the Arabian Desert.
Saturday
10 a.m.4) ABOUT FACE
A Dubai hotel is not a Dubai hotel without a spa, and among the grandest (and newest) is at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City (Festival City; www.intercontinental.com/dubai; 971-4-701-1111). The spa evokes another world, with flowing strands of neon that resemble seaweed dangling from the ceiling. Slide into a plush white bed, watch Dubai Creek sparkling outside, and let your face be slathered with delicious creams that smell of honey and chamomile (the Just Pure Facial, an hour and 20 minutes, is 550 dirhams).
1 p.m.5) TASTE OF TRADITION
You can take only so much newness before the urge for authenticity strikes. Veer off to one of the city’s most historical restaurants, the curiously named Special Ostadi Restaurant (Al Mussalla Road, Bur Dubai; 971-4-397-1469). The small spot is 41 years old — ancient by Dubai standards — and is run by a boisterous Iranian man named Muhammad Ali Ansari. There are only a handful of tables, all covered in a half century of memorabilia, all packed with local businessmen wearing traditional kaffiyehs or shiny Italian suits. The natives come for one thing: grilled lamb kebabs doused in a tangy yogurt sauce and served with pita, onions, cucumbers, arugula, tomatoes and a fat wedge of lime. Order a dish of sweet dates and a cup of mint tea to wash it all down. The whole meal comes to 20 dirhams.
2 p.m.6) OFF LABEL
In a city of strung-together malls, a quirky boutique is a rare and beautiful thing, even if it’s technically attached to a mall. Sauce (the Village, Jumeirah Beach Road; 971-4-344-7270; www.shopatsauce.com), which recently doubled in size, carries an eclectic mix: funky gowns, wispy tops, ironic T-shirts, travel journals, candles, earrings, stilettos, pillows made of denim, and lamps made of neon bowling pins. Sauce also has a weakness for little-known designers like Tata-Naka, Mira and Third Millennium. It feels as though you’re walking into a really, really big closet — if your closet were designed by Stella McCartney, Anna Sui and a dozen Project Runway contestants.
4 p.m.7) MUSEUM OR SHOP?
The design gallery Traffic (Al Barsha; 971-4-341-8494; www.viatraffic.org) is the Middle East’s answer to Moss in New York City, which means it’s splashier, pricier and more exclusive. The 7,000-square-foot gallery in central Dubai carries ultra-high-end, museum-quality, one-of-a-kind designer chairs, tables, benches and fixtures — furniture so avant-garde as to be deemed “pieces.” Recently on display was a chest of drawers entitled “You Can’t Lay Down Your Memory” by the Dutch design collective Droog for 85,100 dirhams — one of the few versions not in a museum.
8 p.m.8) THAI VIEWS
The city’s dining scene revolves around hotels (maybe because they’re about the only places that serve liquor), and the current hot spot these days is Thiptara Royal Thai at the Palace, a new Sofitel hotel (Old Town; 971-4-428-7888; www.sofitel.com). Thiptara is as remarkable for its spicy Thai food as its vantage point — steps from what will soon be the world’s tallest building: the Burj Dubai. (Construction should wrap up any day now, they swear!) The restaurant features rich wooden fixtures, lakefront views and terrific dishes like spicy green papaya salad (80 dirhams) and the chicken stir-fry with cashews, mushrooms and pineapple (120 dirhams). Afterward, take your after-dinner drink to the hotel’s outdoor pool to see what a 2,000-plus-foot building looks like from the bottom up.
Midnight9) UNDERGROUND CLUB
The closest thing to indigenous culture in Dubai is night life. Make your way to Club Submarine at the Dhow Palace Hotel (Bur Dubai; 971-4-359-9992; www.dhowpalacedubai.com). As the name suggests, there’s a nautical theme, punctuated by curved walls and portholes that look out to nothing. Whether you come for the in-house Samba band, the techno stylings of a local D.J., or arrive on one of the nights they decide to retract the roof, Submarine packs them in. Get ready for a night of drinking, dancing, mingling with strangers and other debaucheries punishable by prison just a few hundred miles away in Saudi Arabia. When it’s time to leave, follow the hipsters to Zataar W Zeit (Sheikh Zayed Road; 971-4-343-1259) for a greasy melted cheese wrap and chilled yogurt drink (31 dirhams).
Sunday
10 a.m.10) BE A SPORT
The Els Club is what you get when you cross 7,500 yards of soft green sod, an opinionated champion golfer and possibly the world’s largest sand trap. Scheduled to open soon for nonmembers, the 18-hole course (www.elsclubdubai.com) was designed by Ernie Els as a compendium of his favorite links from around the world. Nonmember rates will be 695 dirhams. Even if you don’t know a nine iron from an Iron Chef, you should pay a visit. The club is in the middle of Dubai Sports City (971-4-425-1111; www.dubaisportscity.ae), a 50-million-square-foot United Nations of sports. Currently under construction are four stadiums (including ones for cricket and field hockey), a tennis academy, a race track, Manchester United Soccer School, a gymnasium, thousands of private homes and — lest you forget where you are — a sports-themed shopping mall.
THE BASICS
Emirates Airlines flies nonstop flights to Dubai from Newark Airport, starting at about $1,370 in May, according to a recent online search. Americans don’t need a visa to travel to Dubai, just a passport that is valid for roughly six months after your entry date. Some travelers who have Israeli stamps on their passports have reported problems being allowed entry, but Dubai has no official policy banning visitors who have also visited Israel, as do some other countries in the Middle East, like Syria and Libya.
This is the city that claimed the first seven-star hotel, so be ready to pay up. The Park Hyatt Dubai (Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club; 971-4-602-1234; www.dubai.park.hyatt.com) is in the quieter area of Deira and affords great city views. It has a great in-house spa, and a relaxing outdoor bar overlooking the harbor. Rooms start at 1,750 dirhams, about $467 at 3.75 dirhams to the dollar.
If you want to be closer to the action, the new Raffles in Wafi City (Sheikh Rashid Road; 971-4-324-8888; www.dubai.raffles.com) is a good bet. The common areas are vast and daunting, but the rooms are spacious and comfortable. Rooms start at 1,750 dirhams.
The eight-room XVA Gallery in the arty Bastakiya neighborhood (971-4-353-5383; www.xvagallery.com), which feels like a North African souk, may be Dubai’s only boutique hotel. Rooms start at 500 dirhams.
Can T5's design conquer delays?
LONDON, England (CNN) -- Its opening may have been an unmitigated disaster of canceled flights, lost baggage and painful delays, but the architects behind Heathrow Terminal 5 say they hope their $8.6 billion colossus will eventually bring a different kind of drama to the traveling experience.
T5's architects say their building has a "generosity of light, space and air."
more photos »
Their aim, they say, is to create a departure from the usual story of passengers shuffling down interminable corridors of dull light into windowless caverns of lines and disorder,
Says Mike Davies, from Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, the lead architect for T5, says: "we have tried to create a high quality of passenger experience by bringing back a generosity of light, space and air."
These may not have been the impressions of the terminal's first customers, many of whom spent the night sleeping on the building's floor as technical problems left them stranded.
But the architects insist, when it overcomes its teething problems, Terminal 5 should make flying a much more pleasant experience.
The journey from Paddington rail station in the center of London to check-in should take only 20 minutes. And passengers arriving by bus or taxi pull up in a separate building, cross flying bridges over a piazza of trees and benches and arrive into the towering space of the terminal.
As Davies says, this is a dramatic entry into what is clearly a very, very large space. The terminal is almost 400 meters long and 170 meters deep. But unlike Stansted airport -- another London airport of a similar depth -- there are no internal columns. Ten percent of the roof and every wall let natural light pour in. "We worked hard to make it feel as light filled as possible," says Davies.
British Airways, the sole occupant of Heathrow Terminal Five, has installed 96 check-in kiosks, the majority self-service to reduce lines. The baggage system -- which broke down on the opening day -- is "state of the art," says BA.
Once through security, there's more drama as passengers emerge onto a high-level balcony. Look behind and you'll see Windsor Castle and in front there are floor-to-ceiling views over the runways. As Davies says, "you don't emerge into a corridor looking for signs. Instead you can see your plane and intuitively understand how the whole system operates."
There's also a good view of the shops and restaurants. The retail focus here is high-end -- with the likes of Paul Smith and Harrods as well as the standard array of high street names.
Don't Miss
T5 tech failure causes Heathrow chaos
Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners: T5
'Hassle Heathrow' new terminal opens
Dining is also at the fine end. British celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay has a restaurant, Plane Food, with its own cocktail bar and views across the runway.
The space uses a "common lounge" concept which means passengers can walk from shop to shop, gate to gate across one giant space.
From its new terminal, BA offers the largest lounge complex in the world with six lounge options as well as a spa. Once again, the key feature here is space and spectacular views across the building and runways.
Another unexpected feature is a series of art installations. In departures, a towering sculpture of neon lights in Chinese characters has been commissioned to coincide with an exhibition of Chinese design at London's V&A museum. And outside, two pieces by artists Langlands & Bell bookend the pedestrian plaza.
For Davies, T5 is not just a "cathedral-like space"; it is also a "piece of a city under one great roof". And being vertically, not horizontally spread as most other airports, it is also a "skyscraper" of a terminal. But Davies' final analogy is a "giant market hall" that, with no internal columns, can be adapted to meet the airport's changing needs.
Whether there are changes to security procedures or immigration, or to the airline's products and facilities, "the one thing we can be sure of is that, in 10 years' time, it will not be the same", says Davies
And even though Terminal 5 doesn't bring extra runway capacity to Heathrow, it is -- eventually -- expected to relieve some of the congestion and hassle that the airport has become renowned for.
"For the longer-term growth of Heathrow, this provides the shuffle space for them to start improving the rest of the airport," says
T5's architects say their building has a "generosity of light, space and air."
more photos »
Their aim, they say, is to create a departure from the usual story of passengers shuffling down interminable corridors of dull light into windowless caverns of lines and disorder,
Says Mike Davies, from Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, the lead architect for T5, says: "we have tried to create a high quality of passenger experience by bringing back a generosity of light, space and air."
These may not have been the impressions of the terminal's first customers, many of whom spent the night sleeping on the building's floor as technical problems left them stranded.
But the architects insist, when it overcomes its teething problems, Terminal 5 should make flying a much more pleasant experience.
The journey from Paddington rail station in the center of London to check-in should take only 20 minutes. And passengers arriving by bus or taxi pull up in a separate building, cross flying bridges over a piazza of trees and benches and arrive into the towering space of the terminal.
As Davies says, this is a dramatic entry into what is clearly a very, very large space. The terminal is almost 400 meters long and 170 meters deep. But unlike Stansted airport -- another London airport of a similar depth -- there are no internal columns. Ten percent of the roof and every wall let natural light pour in. "We worked hard to make it feel as light filled as possible," says Davies.
British Airways, the sole occupant of Heathrow Terminal Five, has installed 96 check-in kiosks, the majority self-service to reduce lines. The baggage system -- which broke down on the opening day -- is "state of the art," says BA.
Once through security, there's more drama as passengers emerge onto a high-level balcony. Look behind and you'll see Windsor Castle and in front there are floor-to-ceiling views over the runways. As Davies says, "you don't emerge into a corridor looking for signs. Instead you can see your plane and intuitively understand how the whole system operates."
There's also a good view of the shops and restaurants. The retail focus here is high-end -- with the likes of Paul Smith and Harrods as well as the standard array of high street names.
Don't Miss
T5 tech failure causes Heathrow chaos
Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners: T5
'Hassle Heathrow' new terminal opens
Dining is also at the fine end. British celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay has a restaurant, Plane Food, with its own cocktail bar and views across the runway.
The space uses a "common lounge" concept which means passengers can walk from shop to shop, gate to gate across one giant space.
From its new terminal, BA offers the largest lounge complex in the world with six lounge options as well as a spa. Once again, the key feature here is space and spectacular views across the building and runways.
Another unexpected feature is a series of art installations. In departures, a towering sculpture of neon lights in Chinese characters has been commissioned to coincide with an exhibition of Chinese design at London's V&A museum. And outside, two pieces by artists Langlands & Bell bookend the pedestrian plaza.
For Davies, T5 is not just a "cathedral-like space"; it is also a "piece of a city under one great roof". And being vertically, not horizontally spread as most other airports, it is also a "skyscraper" of a terminal. But Davies' final analogy is a "giant market hall" that, with no internal columns, can be adapted to meet the airport's changing needs.
Whether there are changes to security procedures or immigration, or to the airline's products and facilities, "the one thing we can be sure of is that, in 10 years' time, it will not be the same", says Davies
And even though Terminal 5 doesn't bring extra runway capacity to Heathrow, it is -- eventually -- expected to relieve some of the congestion and hassle that the airport has become renowned for.
"For the longer-term growth of Heathrow, this provides the shuffle space for them to start improving the rest of the airport," says
What's the best city in America?
(Travel + Leisure) -- Travel + Leisure, Headline News and CNN.com want to know which U.S. cities are your favorites -- and why!Let the debates begin
When Travel + Leisure announced the results of last year's America's Favorite Cities Survey, debates raged on television, in print and on the Internet: Was Chicago really the best destination for food and dining? Did Philadelphians deserve last place in the attractive citizens category? Are Seattle residents really the most intelligent in the country? How could sunny Los Angeles edge out surly New York as the least friendly city?
Cast your vote now
Here's your chance to tell us what YOU think. Visit TravelandLeisure.com/afc/survey from March 7 to June 15, take the 2008 America's Favorite Cities Survey and enter to win a dream trip for two. We want to know: Which of these 25 urban contenders has the best shoe shopping or ethnic eats? Where would you go for a romantic escape? Which cities have the best (and worst) museums, theater and live music? If you want a wild weekend or a relaxing retreat, which urban destination would you visit? You know best, so tell us!
Don't Miss
Travel + Leisure: America's Favorite Cities survey
Travel + Leisure: America's Favorite Cities 2007 results
What's new in 2008
We've streamlined the online survey so you can rate your favorite U.S. cities even faster. Rate one city, two or more! You'll find some new questions (Where would you go for holiday travel? What city has the best cafes and coffee bars?), and past choice categories, ranging from culture, shopping and nightlife to visitor experience ... and of course where to find America's most attractive people.
Vote and explore
Log on to TravelandLeisure.com starting March 7 and vote for your favorite cities. While you're there, enter the sweepstakes to win the trip of a lifetime. And be sure to check out the complete results of last year's America's Favorite Cities Survey to see how your town fared in
When Travel + Leisure announced the results of last year's America's Favorite Cities Survey, debates raged on television, in print and on the Internet: Was Chicago really the best destination for food and dining? Did Philadelphians deserve last place in the attractive citizens category? Are Seattle residents really the most intelligent in the country? How could sunny Los Angeles edge out surly New York as the least friendly city?
Cast your vote now
Here's your chance to tell us what YOU think. Visit TravelandLeisure.com/afc/survey from March 7 to June 15, take the 2008 America's Favorite Cities Survey and enter to win a dream trip for two. We want to know: Which of these 25 urban contenders has the best shoe shopping or ethnic eats? Where would you go for a romantic escape? Which cities have the best (and worst) museums, theater and live music? If you want a wild weekend or a relaxing retreat, which urban destination would you visit? You know best, so tell us!
Don't Miss
Travel + Leisure: America's Favorite Cities survey
Travel + Leisure: America's Favorite Cities 2007 results
What's new in 2008
We've streamlined the online survey so you can rate your favorite U.S. cities even faster. Rate one city, two or more! You'll find some new questions (Where would you go for holiday travel? What city has the best cafes and coffee bars?), and past choice categories, ranging from culture, shopping and nightlife to visitor experience ... and of course where to find America's most attractive people.
Vote and explore
Log on to TravelandLeisure.com starting March 7 and vote for your favorite cities. While you're there, enter the sweepstakes to win the trip of a lifetime. And be sure to check out the complete results of last year's America's Favorite Cities Survey to see how your town fared in
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