GOLDEN ABU-DHABI  
                                     

      INTRODUCTION                                                                                                    

Abu Dhabi offers more than just perfect sandy beaches and year-round sun. In fact, the range of choices can be overwhelming. As the official airline of the United Arab Emirates, it's our mission and our pleasure to ensure you enjoy your stay here. That’s why we’ve created this quick guide. In it, we’ll share some of our favourite sights in Abu Dhabi with you. Whether you’re travelling to the UAE for a quick stopover, a business trip or an extended holiday, the perfect adventure is waiting. What's more, in 2011 Etihad Airways launched our “Essential Abu Dhabi” destination marketing campaign. Designed to enhance Abu Dhabi’s place as a top tourist and MICE destination, the campaign has brought all the major tourism operators in the emirate of Abu Dhabi together under one showcase umbrella to promote the very best the UAE’s capital has to offer. Hotels, tour operators, dining outlets, shops, adventure parks, cultural attractions and sports facilties are providing a range of offers to entice tourists and business travellers alike to spend time in Abu Dhabi with a wide range of fantastic discount offers and deals. Visitors flying into Abu Dhabi on Etihad simply present their Etihad boarding card at participating outlets to redeem the offers within seven days of arriving in Abu Dhabi.

Desert safari

Locals will tell you that if you only do one thing in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, it should be a desert safari. Choose either the adrenaline-packed dune-bashing variety, where you assault sand dunes at high speed in 4-wheel drives, or the more sedate camel trekking. Tours often include dinner at a Bedouin campsite, belly dancing, a traditional henna artist, a falconry demonstration and the chance to try out sandboarding - snowboarding on sand. A multitude of operators offer these trips, so be sure to compare prices.

Where: Abu Dhabi, Dubai
How: Call +971 2 617 7810/11 or email:                 Sheikh Zayed Mosque                       

                                                   

 One of the largest and newest mosques in the world, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque, is as breathtaking as it is large. Take a tour and you will be dazzled by the Swarovski crystal chandeliers, 24 carat gold and precious stonework, the endless white marble domes and columns, and the largest hand-woven Persian carpet in existence.

Remember that this is a working place of worship and a holy site for Muslims. Women are expected to wear headscarves, and no shorts or bare skin is allowed.

Where: Abu Dhabi 

   Dhow cruise

                                      

Experience life the way it was lived here before the discovery of oil by taking a trip on an authentic Arabic sailing boat – while enjoying panoramic views of the Abu Dhabi skyline. Several companies in Abu Dhabi offer sunset Dhow cruises that include traditional food and drink, and Dhows may be chartered for larger private parties. Ask at your hotel’s concierge desk for a reputable operator.

Where: Mina Port, Abu Dhabi.

The Corniche

Arguably the most picturesque part of Abu Dhabi, the Corniche is a coastal promenade dotted with manicured gardens and fountains, against an impressive skyline. There are trees for shade, play areas, a new beach with “softer sand” and bicycle rentals for the more adventurous. In the distance, you’ll notice what was once the tallest unsupported flagpole in the world - until Jordan and Turkmenistan built bigger ones. All in all, the Corniche is an ideal place to kick back and relax while enjoying the view.

High tea at the EmiratesPalace Hotel                                                                                    

Many people don’t realize that Abu Dhabi has its own seven-star hotel: the enormous Emirates Palace. Lavishly appointed and set upon an impeccably manicured lawn at the end of a long drive, the Emirates Palace Hotel  is a favourite of celebrities and football stars. If staying here is a bit out of your budget, you can still experience its famed luxury by booking yourself in for its decadent high tea. You’re also likely to chance upon one of the many fascinating exhibitions which are regularly held here.

Camel racing                                                                                                                             

No visit to the desert is complete without seeing camels, and if those camels are galopping at speeds up to 65 km/hr (40 mph), so much the better. A visit to the camel racetrack near Abu Dhabi allows you to experience this traditional Middle Eastern sport. Admission is free, so what do you have to lose?

Where: Al Watba Camel Racetrack, 45km outside Abu Dhabi, on the road to Al Ain.
When: Races are held early on Thursday and Friday mornings from 20 August – 19 February.

                                              

Al Jahili fort                                                                                                                                

Located about 2 hours from Abu Dhabi in Al Ain, Al Jahili fort is a must see for anyone interested in the history of the region.

One of the largest and most impressive forts in the country, Al Jahili dates from 1891. Built by Sheikh Zayed the First, it has served as both defensive fort and royal summer residence. Having recently undergone an extensive renovation, the fort contains a visitor information centre, a temporary exhibition space and a spellbinding permanent exhibition about the noted British explorer and travel writer Wilfred Thesiger, also known as Mubarak bin London.

Thesiger crossed the Empty Quarter in the 1940s, a notoriously dangerous and inhospitable desert, not once but twice. Many of his photographs are on display in the museum, providing a fascinating look into Abu Dhabi’s past.

Over and above the exhibitions is the chance to take a look around the fort itself. Most of the rooms and towers are open to the public and may be explored at will.

Falconry – the sport of Sheikhs                                                                                             

Originally used by the Bedouins for hunting small game, falconry enjoys a long and exalted history in Abu Dhabi. A popular sport among the ruling class, it is not uncommon to see these birds being carried into Etihad Diamond First Class cabins at the height of the hunting season. Experience the noble art of falconry for yourself at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital.

Guided tours include a visit to the Falcon Museum, a falcon show and lunch in a Khaima, a traditional Arabian tent. Reservations should be made two days in advance for individuals and a week in advance for groups. You can reserve your place by contacting the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital.

For those who would prefer something more modest, the Heritage Village in Abu Dhabi also occasionally offers falconry demonstrations.

Sougha – Handmade handicraft                                                                                            

In partnership with Etihad Airways, Sougha is an initiative launched by the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development to preserve the ancient and much-cherished tradition of Emirati handicraft. Each of the unique products available through Sougha has been skillfully handmade by a team of dedicated craftwomen from across Abu Dhabi, the Western Region and Northern Emirates, using a wealth of techniques perfected over the generations. With the word ‘sougha’ actually translating to ‘souvenir’ in English, why not treat yourself or a loved one to something special, from exquisite handbags, purses and pouches to eye-catching bracelets, key chains and pillows?

Where: Sougha products can be purchased on-board your next Etihad Airways flight, or at the Etihad shops in Marina Mall and Madinat Zayed Mall in Abu Dhabi, the Sougha kiosk in Abu Dhabi’s Central Market Souk, at MORE cafés in Dubai, and through Sougha booths at various exhibitions.

Watch: take a look at this video about Sougha, shot in the Etihad Airways headquarters.

Liwa Date Festival                                                                                                                       
Fancy a date at a beauty competition? Look no further than the annual Liwa Date Festival in Al-Gharbia, the Western Region of Abu Dhabi. The festival is a celebration of the age-old tradition of date production, and usually runs in July but check with your hotel or tour guide for specific dates.

Did you know there are around 120 different types of date? Typically, more than 3,500 farmers enter their best 250 dates in this beauty competition for six varieties of dates: khallas; Dabbas, Abu Maan, Fardh, Nukhba and the Khanizi. Winners receive vehicles and cash prizes of up to AED 5 million. Dates are big business in the UAE!

Alongside the date festival are lectures on agriculture, special educational sessions for children, poetry evenings and Islamic cultural celebrations. Camel, horse and falcon races also set pulses racing at the festival in Liwa, organized by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH).

Where: Liwa, about 150km south-west of Abu Dhabi
When: July
Participants: 3,500+ farmers, 80,000+ visitors
Area: 52,000 square metres.

Scuba-diving

Abu Dhabi offers year-round diving and a wide variety of dive options. Reefs, wrecks, night diving – they’re all here. Although not as spectacular as the better known east coast, there’s plenty to hold your interest if you’re only in town for a few days and don’t feel up for the three-hour drive to Fujairah or Mussandam. Snorkelling trips are also available. The main hotels have facilities

 

 

 

 

 

LAKSHADWEEP HUNDRED THOUSAND ISLANDS

 

LAKSHADWEEP CRUISE SHIP

 

Lakshadweep is the smallest Union Territory of India, covering just 32sq.km. The 36 islands, islets and atolls and the waters in between together take 4,200sq.km of space. Kavaratti is the administrative capital of the union territory. ‘Lakshadweep’ means a thousand islands, and it is located about 220km from Kerala’s Malabar Coast. Most of the natives are followers of Islam, with a smattering of Hindus and Christians. Coconut cultivation, fishing and coir making are the major occupations of the island people.

 

Those who like water sports and adventure activities will have a great time here. Everything from sea swimming to deep sea fishing is possible. Out of 36 islands, only 10 are inhabited. Many islands can only be visited during the day to explore their flora and fauna. The Pitti island is completely converted into a bird sanctuary. Terns are found in plenty there. So are turtles. The islands of Lakshadweep are rich in wildlife and eco-tourism is fast catching up. Bird watching and turtle walking are something you can do as a pastime here.

 

In the islands tourists can opt for adventure sports and water sports. You can also go for boating, kayaking and deep sea fishing. Water scooters and jet skis are available on rent. In boating, there are pedal boats, kayaks and glass-bottom ones you can take. On a boat ride you can view small corals under the shallow blue waters, fish that swim close to your boat, and many birds, too. There are agencies that offer equipment and crew on hire. A walk around the villages is refreshing and you can meet the locals and interact with them.

 

 

Samudram and Coral Reef Package        

 

Package - I Rs 25500/- LAKSHADWEEP CRUISE PACKAGES 4 Night 5 Days

Package - II Rs. 20500/- LAKSHADWEEP CRUISE PACKAGES 3 Night 4 Days

Children between 1 yrs. To 10 yrs: Rs 20500/- For 5 Days /Rs 18500/- For 4 Days

Children Upto 1 yrs. is Free of charge                                                      

 

Fare is inclusive of Transportation, All Food (Veg/Non Veg), Sight Seeing, Watersports, Permits, Documentation,

Passenger handling charges, Fuel Surcharge, Watersports, ship/island/ship transfers & service tax. (From Kochi and Back

to Kochi - all inclusive)

The Package is a Five Day cruise (Only for Indian Nationals) which takes tourists three islands in Lakshadweep - Kavaratti,

Kalpeni and Minicoy for day excursion. During the day with Lunch, Refreshments and Entertainments ashore.

Swimming, Snorkeling and other water sports during the day tour. Sight seeing (Marine Museum, Tuna Factory, Villages

etc.) by Four Wheelers. Folk dances of local entertainers will be arranged in all the islands.

Overnight stay is onboard the ship because in the night we would be sailing from one island to the other.

The Package 'ex. Kochi' is available for booking as in the following. (All tourists to Lakshadweep requires entry permit to.

visit Lakshadweep. We shall arrange the same, please forward travel dates, name, age & address of person/s travelling,

and a contact number to us as soon as possible to confirm your bookings)

Onboard the ship, a film is shown to the tourist giving a brief history of Lakshadweep, its environment, the coral reefs

and its management, the ban on picking up of corals, using plastics and ways to keep the islands clean, and enjoy the

beauty without disturbing or destroying its flora and fauna .

 

Cabin Facility:- 

Furnished cabins containing a generous amount of space . Couches, study table and private baths are provided in every

room in order to enhance your enjoyment and relaxation. Rooms are available with two beds (Arranged by one up and

the other down) in the diamond class.

Tour Programme / Schedule of ship is liable to change or cancel without prior notice due to reasons beyond our control ,

adverse weather etc . In case of a change in the ship schedule liability of Agent/Sports is restricted to transporting the

tourists by immediate available conveyance of the ship only.

The participating ships are not in a luxury type category cruises, of international standard but have descent amenities

according to Indian Standards The vessel is centrally air conditioned and have a capacity of 700 Pax in seven deck.

There is no onboard  entertainments or shopping facility . Vessel do have a reasonably good restaurant which will provide veg / non veg and / or south Indian north Indian food , breakfast and dinner .

Watersports includes kayaking, snorkeling, boating and glass bottom boat rides are free in all three islands. All the Water Sports activities are at their own risk and the organizers will not be responsible in any manner.

Peak Season: (01st December to 15th January ) Members are required to pay full advance payment atleat  60 DAYS prior to date of travel to get confirmed reservation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Itinerary

Day 1

Dubai - Upon your arrival at the airport, meet our representative awaiting just outside the arrival hall, past the customs area & currency shops. Later you will be driven to a hotel in Dubai for overnight stay. In the hotel our representative will brief you about tour starting the day after. For overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 2

Dubai-City Tour: Post breakfast at hotel, our local representative will pick you up for your city sightseeing tour which begins in this morning. Dubai City Tour begins with an intriguing historical excursion; the route will take you to the magnificent Jumeirah mosque; past modern palaces sprawled along the coast. Further in the tour you will be driven to Bastakia where a brief halt will be taken which will provide you ample opportunity to gaze at fascinating old wind-tower houses built by wealthy merchants. While in the vicinity pay a visit to nearby Al Fahidi Fort which is about 150 years old. Here, the Dubai Museum records the city's past as an important pearl diving and trading center. Further continue your journey via Abra (local water taxi). Later this evening you will be provided the most delighting experience that of setting on a Desert Safari. A 4X4 takes you to the interiors of the desert through a roller-coaster ride on the sand dunes. Continue to Bedouin camp; situated right in the middle of the desert. Treat yourself with soft drinks, coffee, tea and enjoy camel rides, feast on a lip-smacking Arabic BBQ dinner and shake a leg along with live performers dancing their way on the beats of Arabic music. All the while, you can recline in tents and watch the splendour of the star-lit desert sky too. Overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Day 3

Dhow Cruise: You have a day free at leisure to explore Dubai on your own. You can visit the famous Mall of Emirates or visit the magnificent hotel, Burj al Arab. Alternatively, you can also indulge in world class water sporting activities in Dubai. Today's evening in Dubai will bring a romantic Dhow Cruise. As you embark a Dhow (a traditional wooden boat) under a moonlit sky the entire ambiance will be silent and relaxing ideal for your very first romantic rendezvous with Dubai. As the Dhow floats on the crystal clear waters the backdrop of the city adds charm to the concept of glamorous Arabian Nights.

Day 4

Check out and day free until you proceed to board your flight

Package Inclusions

• Return Airfare BOM - DXB - BOM
• 03 Nights accommodation on specified hotel.
• Daily American / Continental buffet breakfast
• Return airport transfers.
• Desert Safari with Bar Be Que Dinner with Belle Dancing
• Dhow Cruise with Dinner
• Half Day City Tour of Dubai

Package Exclusions

• Travel Insurance.
• GST calculated at 3.09%.
• Anything other than specified in the inclusions section.
• Any meals other than specified in the itinerary
• Dubai Visa Fee

ANDAMAN ISLAND

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands were shrouded in mystery for centuries because of their inaccessibility. These are the paragon of beauty and present a landscape full with scenic and picturesque extravaganza. These islands shimmer like emeralds in the Bay of Bengal. The dense forest which cover these islands and the innumerable exotic flowers and birds create a highly poetic and romantic atmosphere. "Here the white beaches on the edge of a meandering coastline have palm trees that sway to the rhythm of the Sea. The beat of tribal drums haunt the stillness and technicolour fish steer their way through crystal clear water.

"The scenic beauty of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, would create a sense of dissatisfaction and the human mind would rebel against "the whole mass of the motley facts of life". He would be guided by an irresistible desire to this paradise on earth, Our cheerful faith, that all which we behold is full of blessing".

The unparalleled beauty of these islands, create in men a love of nature with a caressing tenderness, a wistful fondness for all its delicate nuances. The enveloping atmosphere with its subtle harmonies of light and shade, fragrance and exhales the paradise, visionary splendours, and the music of the birds that defies definition would develop creative and constructive feelings in the hearts of those people who come here to enjoy the beauty of nature.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have great maritime importance. During the British period political leaders considered dangerous to the interests of the Raj and other dreaded criminals were deported from mainland to the Cellular Jail- the Indian Bastille, situated on the sea coast of Atlanta Point in the North-Eastern part of Port Blair. Thus these islands were infamously known as the 'Black Water Prison' or 'Kala Pani'.

The Andaman & Nicobar are a group of picturesque Islands, big and small, inhabited and uninhabited, a total of 572 islands, islets and rocks lying in the South Eastern Part of the Bay of Bengal. The flora and fauna of these islands, however, indicate that this land connection if it existed, should have been prior to the development of their present life form                                                                                                                            

Andaman Islands Tours

Day-01: Departure from Nagpur to Chennai by Rly. G.T.Exp. IInd Class Sleeper at 12.00pm.                                       

                                                                                                                

Day-02: Arrival at Chennai, Check-in Hotel. Day Free.

                                                                                                              

Day-03: Departure from Chennai by ---------------.   Arrival at Port Blair in the morning by flight/ship and transfer to hotel. After lunch, visit the Corbyn’s Cove Beach - 9 kms from Port Blair - a coconut palm fringed beach, ideal for swimming, sun-basking & bathing. Then proceed for a leisurely cruise (Harbour Cruise) in a steamer along the Port Blair Harbour - which takes one to Viper Island. The gallows atop a hillock here is sight to watch.     Day 2: Port Blair – Coral Island + Ross Island – Port Blair  Start after breakfast for a full-day Excursion to North Bay (Coral Island) - to see coral reefs, exotic varieties of beautiful ornamental fishes and other marine life. The glass bottom boat ride helps one to take a closer look at the vast coral colonies. Optional Activities - Snorkeling, Swimming, Trekking + visit Ross Island - from where the Britishers' governed the entire A&N lslands, prior to India ’s Independence . This island is an ideal destination for nature walk amidst sylvan surroundings with deers, peacocks, exotic birds, etc    

 

 Day-04: Port Blair 

After breakfast, start for a full-day tour of places in & around Port Blair (City Tour) - covering the famous Cellular Jail, Saw Mill (one of the oldest & largest in Asia), Forest Museum, Mini Zoo, Anthropological Museum, Fisheries (Marine) Museum, Centre, Naval Marine Museum (Samudrika), Andaman Water Sports Complex (for water & adventure sports like water-skiing, boats, water scooters, tube rides, etc.) and the Cottage Industries Emporium (Sagarika) - for shopping & souvenirs. In the evening, attend the enthralling Sound and Light Show at Cellular Jail - where the heroic saga of the Indian freedom struggle is brought alive

  

Day 5:  Port Blair – Havelock-Port Blair 

  Early morning departure by inter-island ferry to Havelock Island (57 kms by sea from        Port Blair).Full day Visit to Radha Nagar Beach at Havelock Island + Evening return      back to Port Blair.

 

 

Day 6: Depart Port Blair 

 Transfer to Airport/Harbour for return flight/voyage.Arrival at Chennai & departure from Chennai Railway station.

Day 7: Arrival at Nagpur.Tour End.

Tour cost : 18000/- per pax ( Excluding Air fair up & down )

NOTE : Entry Tickets, Permit Fees, Boat/Ferry Tickets, Snorkeling Charges, Fun/Joy rides at Water Sports Complex & Camera Tickets are NOT INCLUDED in the Packages & has to be borne by the guests directly at the various places of sightseeing & tour.   EXTRA: Rs.2000/- per person for entry ticket & ferry ticket to visit all the places of sightseeing             .