Explore amazing Abu Dhabi in two days

The list of things to do in Abu Dhabi is virtually endless, so it is only normal to get spoilt for choice when choosing the best ones to try. Replete with dozens of sky-piercing towers, architectural masterpieces, historical landmarks, and entertainment hubs, Abu Dhabi makes for a treasure trove of wide-ranging experiences.

Admire Louvre Abu Dhabi

The Middle East's most spectacular museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi traces the entire history of humanity's artistic achievements, from the Neolithic right up to the current day. The wealth and diversity of art on display, from ancient Egyptian statuary to famous paintings by Picasso, is mind-boggling, while the museum's contemporary architecture, with its galleries gathered under a vast silver dome, are the reasons to visit in itself.

As well as the permanent collection, which runs over 12 galleries, several major temporary exhibitions are staged each year. The Louvre is the first of three planned major museums to open on Saadiyat Island, which is set to become the cultural heartbeat of Abu Dhabi in the coming years. The other two, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum, are still in the planning phases.

Visit Ferrari World

Located on Yas Island occupying an area of 86, 000 square meters, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is counted among the most celebrated amusement parks in Abu Dhabi. Every ride and attraction at this park is inspired by the Ferrari brand, making it an interesting place for supercar lovers. A day at this park is sure to be a treat for your whole family since the park has something for every kind of visitor.

The attractions range from the world's fastest roller coaster ride, Formula Rissa to some easier activities like Tyre Twist and Motor Midway Games which are suitable for just anybody. To double your fun, the park even features shopping and dining experiences. So if you are thinking of taking a break from sightseeing excursions, visiting this fun-filled place is one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi.

Visit the largest mosque in the UAE

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the UAE’s most beautiful mosque, and it is here that you can stroll barefoot on the world’s longest hand-knotted carpet, beneath one of the largest crystal chandeliers on the planet. This elaborate religious site can hold up to 40,000 worshippers and was inspired by Persian, Mughal and Moorish architecture, taking its name from the country’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The mosque was Sheikh Zayed’s idea and he rests within it. Apart from allowing visitors the opportunity to learn more about Islam (there are free tours hosted by local guides), the mosque boasts a unique lighting setup guided by the evolution of the moon during the lunar cycle.

Relax at Umm Al Emarat Park

Umm Al Emarat Park, a meticulously designed public park, blends nature with modern design. Rows of palm trees lead to water features that evoke a man-made oasis, all made to look like a contemporary fountain. The park is home to a number of sites, including an amphitheater, gardens, a playground, and an animal barn. The Wisdom Garden is particularly beautiful, with well-maintained indigenous plants and marble slabs with quotes from the late Sheikh Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Shopping at Yas Mall

One of the primary rules when coming to Abu Dhabi, Do not diss the malls. Malls here are not simply places to shop, they are social and cultural hubs too, especially in summer when it's too hot and humid to congregate outside. Of the many malls sprinkled around Abu Dhabi, Yas Mall is the largest and the most frequently referenced. The architecture feels more like a hotel than a shopping mall, thanks to the long reflecting pool and otherworldly entrance.

Visit Emirates Palace

Redefining royalty even in a place like Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace is an ultra-luxury hotel spanning over an area of 85 hectares. With landscaped gardens on one side and the endless stretch of the sea on the other, the grand structure of Emirates Palace bearing a golden shade is a sight to behold.

Since some parts of the hotel are open for visitors, you can relish the tasteful interiors and captivating architecture even if you are not staying here. Or you can book a table at one of the 14 restaurants and bars located within the hotel premises.

See more: 9 must-see architecture works in Abu Dhabi

Source Internet

Reasons why you should visit Dubai during winter

Dubai residents wait for winter all year long. Indeed, those three months of the year are the most anticipated and enjoyed ones, with people talking about winter year-round and counting down the days. After all, Dubai takes on a new face during this season, which makes the entire city one of the best places to visit during winter.

Temperatures are actually bearable

Anyone who lives in Dubai will complain about the weather at least 10 times a day during summer. After all, temperatures rise as high as 50°C (122°F), making it impossible to be outdoors without dehydrating. However, winter in the city has weather that is not only bearable—it’s actually delightful! People will find any excuse to be outside during winter in Dubai and take advantage of the brief period of time when the city has a breeze and comfortable temperatures.

Winter is beach season

Beach season is an exciting time all around the world. People simply love tanning and enjoying the sea water. However, in Dubai, that is done during winter. Since it’s too hot outside during the rest of the year, this is the season to work on the perfect tan. For those who are looking for a winter destination that does not involve coats and gloves, booking a trip to Dubai will guarantee that they’ll only have to pack swimsuits.

New Year’s in Dubai is a blast

Dubai is known worldwide for its New Year’s festivities. There is no shortage of ways to spend New Year’s Eve (NYE) in the city. Whether one wants to spend it on the beach or in a luxurious hotel watching the Burj Khalifa fireworks, one thing is for sure: New Year’s in Dubai is always fun. People start planning their NYE months in advance, picking the perfect dress—yes, the weather is perfect to wear short dresses, with no need for jackets and such—and choosing the best venue from which to view the epic fireworks.

All the best events take place in winter

Dubai is big on events. They can focus on fitness, fashion, music or food, and they are a way that the city keeps its residents and visitors entertained year-round. However, most of the best and biggest events actually take place in winter. Anything from the biggest concerts in town to the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship takes place at the beginning of the year when the weather is good enough to be outside.

Winter is camping season

For those looking for any good reason to be outside, camping is a fantastic way in which to enjoy the weather and make the most of the cooler temperatures. People in Dubai will commonly head to the desert in order to camp, where the temperature drops even lower. It gives them a real chance to be cold, something that is very rare in Dubai, with the exception of air conditioning.

See more: Best desserts you should try in Dubai

Source: Internet

Best things you can experience in Abu Dhabi

If the United Arab Emirates is on your travel itinerary this year, check out this handy list of the best things to see and do in its capital, the multi-faceted Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi is full of immersive, educational and historical experiences. Whether you’re planning a stopover or a lengthier stay, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in the second most populous city in the emirates. Discover Abu Dhabi’s significant buildings, walk on the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, spend the night in the desert or ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster – it’s all in the UAE’s cultural capital.

Visit the largest mosque in the UAE

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in the UAE

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the UAE’s most beautiful mosque, and it’s here that you can stroll barefoot on the world’s longest hand-knotted carpet, beneath one of the largest crystal chandeliers on the planet. This elaborate religious site can hold up to 40,000 worshippers and was inspired by Persian, Mughal and Moorish architecture, taking its name from the country’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The mosque was Sheikh Zayed’s idea and he rests within it. Apart from allowing visitors the opportunity to learn more about Islam (there are free tours hosted by local guides), the mosque boasts a unique lighting setup guided by the evolution of the moon during the lunar cycle.

Pro tip: Remember to dress modestly as this is an Islamic place of worship; abayas (loose cloaks) are available free of charge at the mosque.

Spend a few hours at the Louvre

Louvre Abu Dhabi

As you stroll around the dome-shaped Louvre Abu Dhabi museum that sits proudly within the Saadiyat Island cultural precinct, you’ll see why the ruling Al Nahyan family was of the belief that this billion-dollar establishment would help the capital transition into a globally renowned cultural hub.

French architect Jean Nouvel designed this, the first foreign outpost of the iconic Paris museum, and art enthusiasts will appreciate the huge gallery space that features works ranging from prehistoric artefacts to contemporary art. Leonardo da Vinci, Pablo Picasso and Ai Weiwei are just some of the artists represented here. Given that the government spent £589 million on art loans and special exhibitions from notable French museums including Musée du Louvre, Musée d’Orsay and Centre Pompidou, you can rest assured there’ll be plenty to enjoy as you wander the waterfront building at your leisure.

Pro tip: Sunset is the best time to enjoy this magnificent structure. If you want a unique view of the museum, hire a kayak and paddle around it.

Learn about the falcon, the UAE’s national bird

Arabian Hunting Falcon in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Falconry has deep roots in Arabian history, dating back more than 2,000 years. The Peregrine falcon is a symbol of the UAE’s Bedouin culture and owning one today is a great source of pride. These hunting birds are so respected that they are able to get their own passports and can cost anywhere between Dh2,000 (£430) and Dh50,000 (£10,700) to purchase. While first and foremost a veterinary facility, the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital has developed into something of an educational institution since opening in 1999, providing interested visitors with tours that instil greater awareness and education about these valuable birds. You can tour the site with a guide, see the vets in action and even handle a bird yourself.

Pro tip: Make some extra time for the neighbouring Arabian Saluki Centre, a breeding and training centre for saluki dogs, where you’ll find out all there is to know about these desert canines.

Take a spin in an Eco-Donut Boat

Eastern Mangroves Promenade is one of the city’s less well-known attractions. Located just off the main highway to Dubai on the north side of the capital, you’ll find a cluster of Eco-Donut Boats you can drive yourself. The small solar-powered circular boats can be hired for an hour or more with up to six people on board. Navigate your way around the wildlife-filled mangroves and enjoy a BYO lunch or dinner – it’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening surrounded by nature.

Pro tip: Keep an eye out for foxes, turtles, flamingos and sea snakes, and allow plenty of time to find parking, as it can get very busy, particularly at the weekends (Fridays and Saturdays).

Go for gold at Emirates Palace

Emirates Palace

Emirates Palace is the official guest palace of the city’s government, and as such no expense has been spared, inside or out. This 394-room establishment is dripping with gold, and that means visitors or in-house guests can enjoy a 24-carat gold-flaked cappuccino, a gold-encrusted ice cream or a gold facial. The palace boasts beautiful Islamic architecture and elaborate decor and is also home to a marina and a private beach. Gold is such an important part of this property that it even boasts its own gold-leaf specialist, whose job it is to keep the precious metal sparkling.

Pro tip: While you’re at the palace, factor in a visit to the Founder’s Memorial, a permanent tribute to the country’s first president, Sheikh Zayed. Find the landmark by wandering out of the front gates of the palace and walking toward the Corniche – it’s on the corner.

Spend a family day out at Yas Island

Once nothing but a sandy plateau, Yas Island has been developed into the capital’s family hub. Home to three theme parks, a world-class Formula One race track, a beach club and the biggest mall in the emirate, there’s plenty to keep you amused here. Ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World, explore the six immersive worlds at Warner Bros World, cool off at Yas Waterworld and Yas Beach or get a taste of Grand Prix action at Yas Marina Circuit – all of this is just 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the centre of the city.

Pro tip: If you’re short of time and planning to visit two parks in one day, consider buying a one-day two parks ticket. You’ll get access to Yas Waterworld and either Ferrari World or Warner Bros World.

Take a tour of the Royal Palace

Qasr Al Watan

Qasr Al Watan, also known as the Palace of the Nation, is a tribute to the city’s heritage and culture, and the place where the UAE cabinet and Federal Supreme Council – the highest constitutional authority – meet. Time spent here allows a greater understanding of the governing traditions and values of the city. Visitors can learn about the formation of the UAE and its governance in the west wing, and the library has a vast selection of books and historical resources, while the east wing is home to a collection of artefacts and manuscripts that shine a light on the many contributions made by the Arab world. Aside from the historical significance, it is an eye-opening architectural feat: it is designed to echo traditional Arabian architecture, with high, white ceilings and intricate wall carvings.

Pro tip: Don’t miss the jewel in the crown, the gigantic Great Hall. It measures 100 metres by 100 metres (328 feet by 328 feet), and its main dome is the largest in the world, with a 37-metre (121-foot) diameter.

Read more: Top destinations in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Source Melinda Healy/ The Culture Trip

Reasons why you should choose Abu Dhabi over Dubai

Most people when booking their trip to the UAE immediately pick Dubai as their destination. However, only an hour and a half away is Abu Dhabi, and visitors should definitely consider visiting this incredible city instead. Abu Dhabi has some of the most epic touristic attractions in the country and is possibly a better destination for tourists coming to the UAE.

Abu Dhabi is the UAE’s Capital

Abu Dhabi is not only the country’s capital, but it also occupies approximately 80% of its territory. The city is also the home of the UAE’s president, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. In fact, all of the country’s presidents must be from the Al Nahyan family, which is from Abu Dhabi. This makes Abu Dhabi perhaps the most important city in the country politically, geographically and historically. When visiting the UAE, seeing – and even staying – in the capital is a must!

Seeing more of the local culture

Anyone who has been to both Dubai and Abu Dhabi will agree that the capital is much more traditional than the vastly more touristy city of Dubai. In Abu Dhabi, visitors will be more in touch with the local culture, being around locals much more often. This is the best place to see the Emirati costumes, garments and traditions. Whereas in Dubai one would most likely be surrounded by expats and other tourists, Abu Dhabi offers a more traditional experience.

Great concerts and events

Abu Dhabi has become known for amazing concerts. The capital has hosted some household names in music internationally such as Coldplay, Paul McCartney, Rihanna and Lionel Richie. Events such as Beats On The Beach have made Abu Dhabi the UAE’s most important hub for live music. The city has an event heavy calendar that includes music festivals, cultural happenings and sporting events, attracting people from all over the world.

Not as busy as Dubai

Anyone who has visited Dubai during peak season can confirm this – the city is packed! Seeing that this is a vastly popular tourist destination, people from all over the world fly to Dubai during the months of October-March in order to spend some time in the city. Airports are packed, hotels are super expensive and even just buying a ticket to go up the Burj Khalifa needs to be done months in advance. Abu Dhabi has attractions that are just as fun and exciting as Dubai, with much less hassle, making it a much better destination during peak season.

A more authentic trip

While everyone around is saying they have been to Dubai and seen Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa, anyone who choose to visit Abu Dhabi will be able to share stories of a truly authentic and unusual holiday. Everyone who has been to the UAE has had the chance to see the Burj Al Arab, but not all got to contemplate the skyline from Fast and Furious 7. Choosing Abu Dhabi over Dubai will guarantee new and unique stories to share with those back home.

See more: Top destinations in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Source: Internet

Top 7 most unique buildings in Asia

When most people think about architecture in Southeast Asia, they tend to focus on ancient structures such as temples and monuments, and with good reason. The region is, after all, decorated with some of the oldest buildings the world has ever known.

However, they recently have numerous unique and beautiful buildings across Southeast Asia, buildings that glow with their very own magnificence and shine as symbols of modernization without shying away from being different. These contemporary structures are striking examples of cutting edge construction, and they represent a series of sights that you should not miss the chance to marvel at.

Art Science Museum, Singapore

One of the primary attractions of Marina Bay Sands, the Art Science Museum’s appeal comes from both its exhibits and its architecture. The building’s contemporary structure was designed to represent Singapore’s welcoming hands. It can thus be seen as a combination of ten fingers or two open hands.
The tip of each of these ten segments has a series of filters which draws in natural light and channels it into the museum, showcasing its exhibits in their best natural state. This is why the Art Science Museum continues to be a preferred gallery for exhibitions from all across the world.

Guangzhou Circle, China

The landmark building Guangzhou Circle is located in Guangzhou, China. This circular building’s central hold is hollow. It is the world’s tallest (138 meters) circular building.

Aldar Headquarters, UAE

This circular building is the first of its kind in the Middle East. It is located in Abu Dhabi, UAE and was voted the "Best Futuristic Design" by the Building Exchange Conference held is Spain.

The Lotus Building, China

The Lotus Building is located at the center of Wujin, China. It shows the three stages of lotus, from the new young bud, to the flower in full bloom. It houses the departments of city’s planning bureau.

Solar Ark, Japan

This unique structure, which was established in 2002, is located inside Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Anpachi, Gifu, Japan. It is actually a power generation facility. Solar Lab, a museum of solar energy is stationed at the center of the Sanyo Solar Ark. The facility offers activities to cultivate a better appreciation of the use of solar energy.

New Century Global Center, China

Chinese architecture is famed for its bold, powerful statements which push scale, albeit usually vertical, to the extremes. However, China now boasts the world’s largest building in terms of volume, able to hold a staggering 20 Sydney Opera houses. Inside the massive complex visitors can find a shopping center, a university complex, a Mediterranean village and an IMAX theatre. This architectural giant can be interpreted as an unsubtle statement of the country’s current economic power, as it points towards its future global position.

The Chongqing Guotai Arts Center, China

The Chongqing Guotai Arts Center has raised eyebrows due to its architectural interpretation of chopsticks and a hot pot, or a white fig tree depending on personal interpretation. The current structure is the result of countless changes which the architect has painstakingly undertaken over the past eight years. Facilitating shows, performances and other artistic events the arts center is now an important cultural hub of Chongqing.

Read more: Dubai’s Burj Khalifa: Inside the world’s tallest building

Source Tellyouall

Top 10 highest buildings in Asia up to October 2018

Asia owns some of the highest buildings in the world, in fact, the famous Taipei 101 used to be the highest building in the past. Here is the top 10 highest buildings in Asia up to October 2018 which are also the popular destinations in their respective countries.

10. Landmark 81

Landmark 81 is a super-tall skyscraper in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, that was designed by the British design, engineering and consulting firm Atkins. The investor and primary developer for the project is Vinhomes, a Vietnamese corporation that is also the country's largest real-estate company. Landmark 81 is the tallest building in Vietnam, the tallest completed building in Southeast Asia as of July, 2018 and the 14th tallest building in the world.

9. International Commerce Centre

The International Commerce Centre is a 118-storey, 484 m (1,588 ft) commercial skyscraper completed in 2010 in West Kowloon, Hong Kong. It was the 4th tallest building in the world (third in Asia) when its construction was completed in 2010. Now, it is the world's 11th tallest building by height, world's fifth tallest building by number of floors, as well as the tallest building in Hong Kong.

8. Shanghai World Financial Center

The Shanghai World Financial Center is a supertall skyscraper located in the Pudong district of Shanghai. It is a mixed-use skyscraper, consisting of offices, hotels, conference rooms, observation decks, and ground-floor shopping malls.

7. Taipei 101

The Taipei 101, formerly known as the Taipei World Financial Center – is a landmark supertall skyscraper in Xinyi District, Taipei, Taiwan. The building was officially classified as the world's tallest in 2004, and remained such until the completion of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai in 2010.

6. Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre

The Guangzhou Chow Tai Fook Finance Centre (also called East Tower) is a 1,739-foot (530 m) tall mixed-use skyscraper in Guangzhou, Guangdong, which was completed in October 2016. It is the tallest completed building in Guangzhou, the third-tallest in China, and the seventh-tallest in the world.

5. Lotte World Tower

Lotte World Tower is a 123-floor, 555-metre (1,821 ft) supertall skyscraper located in Seoul, South Korea. It opened to the public on April 3, 2017 and is currently the tallest building in South Korea, and is the 5th tallest building in the world.

4. Ping An Finance Center

Ping An International Finance Centre is a 115-storey megatall skyscraper in Shenzhen, Guangdong. The building was commissioned by Ping An Insurance and designed by the American architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates. It was completed in 2017, becoming the tallest building in Shenzhen, the 2nd tallest building in China and the 4th tallest building in the world.

3. Makkah Royal Clock Tower Hotel

The Abraj Al-Bait is a government-owned megatall complex of seven skyscraper hotels in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The central hotel tower, the Makkah Royal Clock Tower, A Fairmont Hotel, has the world's largest clock face and is the third-tallest building and fifth-tallest freestanding structure in the world.

2. Shanghai Tower

The Shanghai Tower is a 632-metre (2,073 ft), 128-story megatall skyscraper in Lujiazui, Pudong, Shanghai. It shares the record (along with the Ping An Finance Center) of having the world's highest observation deck within a building or structure at 562 m, and the world's fastest elevators at a top speed of 20.5 metres per second (74 km/h; 46 mph). It is the world's second-tallest building by height to architectural top.

1. Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa, known as the Burj Dubai, is a skyscraper in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. With a total height of 829.8 m (2,722 ft) and a roof height of 828 m (2,717 ft), the Burj Khalifa has been the tallest structure and building in the world since its topping out in late 2008.

See more: Dubai’s Burj Khalifa: Inside the world’s tallest building

Source: wikipedia

Shopping-spree in Dubai

Dubai is known as one of the biggest shopping centers in the world or a "shopping paradise". It's common to see shopaholics from every continent rush to Dubai to shop however they want.

1. Emirates Mall

Among the shopping centers, Emirates Mall stands out as one of the most spectacular architectures in the world. Emirates Mall has over 700 stores with mostly luxury high-end brands such as Hermes, Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Dior, Armani, D&G, etc. Most consumers are from Europe, some are from Asia - mostly Japanese, the rest are Arabs. That explains the wealthy upper class coming to these high-end stores. Each tourist wander around the mall with at least one bag of a luxury brand.

2. Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall is also a favourite mall of the shopaholics as this place has over 2,200 luxury brand stores, which make it even more thrilling yet challenging to shop. Dubai Mall opens its doors from 10 a.m. to midnight daily. You don't have to pay to wander about, but certain attractions in the mall will charge admission.

3. Other Malls

On the other hand, there are also more "affordable" shopping malls in Dubai, such as Ibn Battuta - world's largest themed shopping mall with more than 270 shops, Festival City - a large residential, business and entertainment development, Deira City - the original flagship mall in the Majid Al Futtaim Properties portfolio, etc.

4. Dubai Shopping Festival

Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) takes place at the start of the year and attracts thousands of tourists each year. During the festival, every major shopping mall starts discounting all kinds of items, from clothes, cosmetics, electric devices, vehicles, furnitures, etc. to even gold.

5.  Gold Shopping

Dubai people are generally extremely wealthy. That's how some "gold markets" were founded in the city as more and more rich people have demands over gold adornments. If tourists want to buy real gold, Gold Souk is the most highly recommended place to stop by. The government is really strict when it comes to the goods' authentication so tourists don't have to worry about "fake" gold. 

See more: 5 luxurious dishes only in Dubai

Source: wiki-travel.com.vn