One area that could be a paradise for shopper is Balad. Besides having a high-class shopping center offering the latest products from leading fashion brands from Milan and Paris, the old town of Jeddah is also packed with traditional traders and the open market that offer various fashion products and souvenirs with a relatively cheap price.

At night, this shopping center crowded by visitors. Density shopping center located in the Corniche area during the peak season is the pilgrimage because pilgrims usually took time to come to Jeddah to buy fruit hand.

Carpet, abaya (traditional Arab women dress in black-red), various brand perfume with unique packaging, prayer beads, prayer rugs, watches, various leather products, hood, Pasmina, until hena eye shadow and can be purchased at the shopping center every time prayer was closed a few today.

Most of the goods sold in this market is imported from other countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and of course China. Almost all products sold in the souvenir market Balad, including beads and calligraphy, are imported from China. Imported goods from China is the average wholesale and sold very cheap price. Unit price of stone beads of different colors one riyal and the unit price of various leather wallet is only between 10 to 15 riyal riyal.

In Balad, the selling price of each product varies according to the quality and negotiable. Some traders also speak to Indonesia despite the limited numbers so that visitors from Indonesia who could not speak Arabic can still make a bargain price.

In fact, when a group of people across Indonesia, with traders shouting aggressively price the goods to the Indonesian language. “Let’s just ten riyal, riyal ten!,” Said one street vendor in Balad when abayanya wares.

Of all the shop in Balad, Ali Cheap Shop is a shop that most pilgrims visited Indonesia. Despite the name Ali Cheap, but the price of goods sold in this store is relatively more expensive than the price of goods in other stores.

Simple abaya in another store sells 35 to 40 riyal riyal, Ali Cheap stores offered a price of 60 riyal.

Indonesian pilgrims average prefer to shop at this store because the transaction can be done with the Indonesian language. All the servants in this store of Indonesia, one shop owner speaks fluent Indonesian.

“And here all the stuff there, complete and varied,” said Fine, a congregation from Palembang.

In addition to Balad, cheap shopping center in the region also Haraj Al-Sawarikh, a long market stall that sells various new and used goods. K arpet, crystal lamps, glassware, cosmetics, electronic goods, fashion and souvenir products sold in this area. If they are good bargain and choose, visitors can get good stuff at cheap prices here.

While in Tahlia Street, in the middle of Jeddah City, visitors can shop at shopping centers and boutiques that sell products world-renowned fashion such as Prada, Gucci and Giorgio Armani. The price of hundreds to thousands of riyal per item.

“If you want to spend the salary within a matter of hours, go there,” said Sukri, an Indonesian citizen who had an annual living in Saudi Arabia.

And if you choose to purchase electronic products, Falestin Street place. On either side of this street lined shops that sell various brands phone, camera, recorder players and digital versions of music format MP3, MP4, and MP5, and the portable computer and its accessories.

The price is relatively cheaper than the price of electronic goods in the country. Difference in prices range from tens of thousands of dollars to one million.

There was no trouble at all immigration paperwork to Oman was impressed very smoothly and easily. Last week in December last year, I and a delegation from Undip who want to negotiate co-join the academic and research with the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) in Muscat, Oman enough to communicate remotely with the university. Just-mail each other everything is fine.

Oman including a unique country because it has a low plateau and desert with shades plus the beach. That combination of beautiful scenery. We can enjoy the park at the edge of the beach Riyam with family or friends while enjoying kebabs and chicken tika, Omani coffee or McDonald’s or Pizza. There is a place of recreation for the public beach at Marina Airport near Rowdha Marine Science and Fisheries Center (Oman Fisheries Research Center).

As a desert country, Oman two seasons, the cold and heat. In December until April the air was very friendly, cool, with temperatures in the daytime average of 16 degrees Celsius, even at night the amplitude (temperature difference) is relatively sharp. But do not ask how hot start in May and until the end of November, in the daytime temperature reaches 50 degrees Celsius.

SQU campus so comfortable and shady. If you entered the area, we like do not believe that was in the desert country. He could be called a green campus full of plants that combine the type of sub-tropical plants and tropical. Likewise along the road in the city of Muscat. Once lush with gardens full of colorful flowers like spring in Europe. Yes, with capillary irrigation technology (springle) is always controlled and systematically created by the network that laid hidden beneath the ground surface deserts into forests and city parks so fantastic. How much does it cost for all investments? That is one form of commitment from the Sultan Qaboos, Oman leaders, so that his country had a prestige in the eyes of the world. Enormity of this policy is supported by its people.

It was mentioned that Oman is a desert country which also has a sea. Naturally, if the country’s royal has research centers do not surprise too, in strategic places we’ll find a picture or diorama big boat. This is something to do with the historical background of the country, characterized by maritime, either from its natural structure and community life. Leaders and community leaders of Oman until now still boasts the power of marine resources they have.

So, is the uniqueness of Oman kebaharian others. When compared with the Arab community in general who preferred the food menu of daily cattle meat (red meat), the Oman manifold prefer white meat such as chicken meat, turkey, and fish in particular. One can mention their menu is the pride of king fish steak, fish of similar large tengiri baked with butter and special sauce with lemon and almonds, equipped with fries. It was so delicious.

VISIT to Oman incomplete without a stop at the Nizwa Fort which stores a historical record of Omani society. The fort was included in Nizwa province that could be taken approximately 1.5 hours from the International Airport of Oman, Sultan Qaboos. The old building was that it was haunted when viewed from the outside. But after entering, we will get another impression. There is a unique attraction for visitors, especially from Southeast Asia. At the front of the fort there are old wells with rope and bucket bath, similar to the situation in our country in general. Color Pembedanya only relatively whitish soil gives the impression and other nuances.

Entered the castle through the small alleys, you will find that many traps (perhaps the image that we’ve seen in the film Indiana Jones adventure. The trap is usually a hidden staircase and would like ambrol when dipijak. In addition, there are many platforms in the fortress. pavilion, pavilion describing the life of Omani society and civilization, ranging from kitchen pavilion that contains all the tools and equipment, the shepherds, the food storage room (logistics such as dates), the pavilion to receive guests, and large event space to the resort, rooms oversized jewelry and clothing, the means for the Koran and worship as well as a vehicle for entertainment. It really arranged in the original.

Exciting, when up the stairs to the top of the castle, we will be able to enjoy views of the city and its expanse of Nizwa wahdi (flood shelter from the desert flash floods at any time to come), and palm forests, Galib panoramic desert region. Comfortable right, especially when the air was cool once. Because too enjoy the comfort that we do not remember until the appointed time 16:00 hours local time. That when the fort closed with wooden bar and a large padlock. We forget that prior to Dr Osman had come to take us warned about the discipline of time. We of course distraught trapped inside the fortress. Alhamdulillah, the castle guards appeared and opened the door smiling. And as free from anxiety, we are satisfied satisfied to walk into the traditional market and the largest fish market in Nizwa.

There are many interesting things in Oman that it was a pity if we miss. One of them is to go to a village on the outskirts of Muscat has Falaj. That’s a big water source like an oasis. There, we witnessed the greatness of God in terms of water source that never dry in the middle of the desert aridity.

Keep in mind, the source water into the pulse of community life there and managed by local communities (indigenous) from the past until now the down-down. Management system based on the community (community-based management) and running smoothly. Royal party only provide facilities and technology development only.

Said people there, when we drink water from Falaj, God willing, we will visit that place again. Hearing that, we are also interested to try it. The water was clear and refreshing drink. While drinking, we pray that we can go back to it one day.

Original inhabitants are Arabs lighter-skinned than the people of Saudi Arabia. During the week hanging out with them, especially those in urban areas, I got the impression that the people of Oman more than they mriyayeni I met in Mecca or Medina.

Yes, Oman is a small but rich thanks to oil and gas mining. In 2007, 79% of the total revenue derived from the two commodities (about 5565 million Omani riyal). Other commodities are outstanding perfume and frankincense (a kind of air freshener hundred) with the export destinations to more than 100 countries.  production was abundant. Even now, the country is exploring the fisheries and marine sector with modern port named Sultan Qaboos.

Port name was taken from the name of the leader of Oman, the Sultan Qaboos bin Said. He was a middle-aged man with extensive knowledge of highly respected and revered people. So do not be surprised if you come there, in addition to the port, almost all public facilities bear his name as a university, hospital, or mosque.

Oman landscape really beautiful views of the combination between high and low plains to the nuances of the desert. We can enjoy the park at the edge of the beach Riyam with family or colleagues while enjoying kebabs, Omani coffee or a hamburger or pizza. Fun to enjoy the beach for public recreation at the Marina Airport near Rowdha Marine Science and Fisheries Center (Oman Fisheries Research Center).

Muscat City is also fun. Do not imagine the city’s only full-desert and desert. Therefore, most major cities in the Arabian peninsula (let’s call Jeddah, Abu Dhabi, or Dubai) “metamorfosis” the city became deserts with cities in Europe or America, plus an order of stay in the city park. Muscat did not miss. Park city is very similar to the one in Kokenhorf, Netherlands. And it certainly does not cost a bit. When I asked about it to Ahmed, Public Relations Department of Fisheries of Oman, he chuckled as he answered curtly, “I bet a lot of riyal should be released for it.”

With the “new city” which was transformed from the desert like that, I really wondered how the drainage system and beautiful parks maintenance. It turned out that the desert soil extracted and replaced with good soil (made such a huge pot) with a permanent capillary tube, and planted beneath the ground. For garden maintenance, there officers whose numbers adjusted by the ratio of the flower garden area / trees along the streets of the city. Their orange uniforms and always ready with a broom and sweep the trash to the desert sand that every time the wind. Wow!

Usually, tourists in Muscat will have a question: have you to Suz (traditional markets) in which there Matrah the beach? There are offered in the form of-way as goods such as handicrafts, fragrances, typical Omani air (like a hundred who were burned), Pasmina, clothes, and gold and diamonds. Market is very unique and antique. If young people to borrow the term, the Middle East market really. At least if compared with the zinc market in Makkah who had to accommodate the taste of Indonesian pilgrims. In fact, the seller most immigrants from India, Bangladesh, Turkey, Morocco, or Pakistan.

Goods prices, well do not ask. Drain completely allowance. Moreover, Omani riyal is more expensive than the Saudi riyal, even with the U.S. dollar (100 U.S. dollars Omani riyal = 38). But not to worry, as long as we are good at bargaining, God willing, able goods prices “realistic”. A friend from Oman to give a little leak, ” to 30-50% of the seller set the price.”

Even so, I and Tri Winarni, a friend of the Faculty of Fisheries Undip, often inconvenience too. The reason is, every transaction, we have to convert into dollars Omani riyal first. “Well, the difference in just 0.5 riyal’ve Rp 17.500,” I joke.

Beyond that, actually, there is little doubt in our hearts as an invitation to meet the conference in Oman. The reason is, we women.  safe and Arab countries for tourist women?

Before leaving we took time to browse the website of “Lonely Planet Traveler”. There is mentioned that women are advised not to go alone. Oh no. In addition, there week end with a different time in most countries, ie on Thursday and Friday. Similarly, business hours will be closed after prayer Dzuhur until sunset. Eventually about eight hours from Jakarta by plane Etihad (a subsidiary of Emirates Airways) we arrived at Muscat. Then we know, fear before going too far. Oman is a modern Arab state, a good civilized, and less intimidating for a woman traveler.

Government of Oman also has a good policy against women. Simple proof, March 8 and then when I explained the working paper to coincide with World Women’s Day, especially Sultan Qaboos bin Said gave congratulations to the warning.

Likewise, when I visited the University of Sultan of Oman, who diligently attended too many women. Similarly, in many fields of work, and scientific forums, which is active most of the Eve. Yes, although important position is still held by men, from a quick observation, I feel that the participation and emancipation of women was good Oman.

Kairouan until now in great demand from foreign tourists. However, a special tourist in the city is the cultural tourists or archaeologists. Most tourists visit Kairouan with tourist buses coming from the tourist town of Sousse or Hamamet City. The distance between Kairouan and Souse is only about 50 kilometers, while between Kairouan and Hamamet approximately 100 kilometers.

The tourists usually spend a day in the city of Kairouan to visit the historical places, especially Mosque Uqba ibn Nafi. Most of the tourists who are interested to visit Kairouan come from Europe and Japan who had read about the history of the city before. Kairouan is known is the combination of the City of Damascus and Marrakesh, Morocco.

In Kairouan, the tourists prefer to visit the market of traditional rug or carpet, local perfumes, and goods made of silver or copper. Around the Mosque of Ibn Nafi Uqba there were many stalls and shops selling prayer rugs, carpets, and traditional goods other. Any tourists or pilgrims must not escape the lure of the seller in order to visit their stalls or shops.

For the tourists who do not understand the Arabic language and civilization, they were more delighted to visit the area on the outskirts of Kairouan Raqadah. There are relics of the palace of the kings of Aghlabid Dynasty, which ruled the city for more than a century. In Raqadah, they can see the decorations and paintings of life of local tribes.

Excellence is the existence of Kairouan Mosque Uqba ibn Nafi very popular . The mosque is an old mosque, the largest and most important in Tunisia and the African continent. From the city with a mosque, Islam had spread to start with the African Continent, Islands of Sicily and southern Italy. While Tareq bin Ziyad soldiers departed from Kairouan to Andalusia (Spain now)

Kairouan is the distinctiveness between the alloy presents a panorama of treasure and modernity. Turkish fort with the original building model (shape of the fort buildings), for example, is now used as five-star hotel with all modern facilities, such as swimming pools, restaurants, and the rooms are lovely.

Uqba ibn Nafi is the founder of the City of Kairouan in 670 years, and he immediately designed a building of a mosque by using the name itself “Uqba ibn Nafi ‘. Once there, he and his troops set out from a region of the Sahara in Egypt and continued to scour the vast expanse of the Sahara in northern Africa until it came to a place now known by the name of Kairouan, Tunisia.

In the early centuries, the city of Kairouan became the most important cultural centers in the Arab world is rich with scientists, literature, and artists. Agriculture in the region is growing thanks to a sophisticated irrigation systems and trading activities also flew with the surrounding area.

As one of the Islamic holy city, Kairouan City was in a very few centuries of pilgrims attracted Muslims from North Africa and black Africa. City of Kairouan originally functioned as a military camp Arab armies, and then expanded and became a city. The city turned into the first Islamic capital in the Arab Maghrib region.

Kairouan city renovation again in the year 862, year 1025, the year 1294, the year 1618, and at the end of the last century. Last renovation of the most important made in 1970-1972, along with 13th-century warning that the city establishment. Unesco, beginning in 1986 until 1992, helped disburse the funds to renovate the city Kairouan, including renovating the prayer room, tower and roof of the mosque.

While the doors are known to be very beautiful in Uqba ibn Nafi Mosque is the west door, the door water, doors, and doors Saleha. Pulpit mosque in Kairouan is the oldest and most famous pulpit in Tunisia. Pulpit is made of teak wood with high quality and decorated some interesting carvings. The chancel was preserved because the mosque preacher who is the reigning princes of his day.

Do not forget, anyone who visited the city or another city Kairouan in Tunisia, try to eat possum (Tunisia foods) mixed with the meat and dairy while enjoying acumen Kairouan citizens on horseback and enjoy the game.

The journey takes between 14 to 15 hours. As Lukman writing that this is (if not mistaken) number 3 or 4 non-stop travel the longest. We joined a tour which includes the package is round-trip plane ticket, hotel during the next 10 days breakfast at the hotel Four Points Sheraton Hotel, airpot shuttle inter-hotel-airport and city tour 1. The rest of each day there are events and must pay optionil own.

As it is known that Dubai is part of the union of 7 emirates of Abu Dhabi (the richest), Dubai (no.2), Sharjah, Ayman, Um al qaiuan and Al fujayrah in 1971 and a year later joined Al khaymah also race.

Incidentally, I have a friend , who worked in Saudi Arabia and have often come to Brazil. We promised to meet in Dubai, by coincidence he was also off. He accompanied me for 2 days, because then he must go to work again. He also frequently to Dubai, because he said in Saudi Arabia there is no entertainment, so if the holiday go to Dubai. (In Saudi Arabia said there was no cinema, and a place for a drink, etc.). Earlier this my friend offered what we want to eat  Burj al Arab. (the 7 star hotel, which forms a rich display  boat), because if you want to reserve a seat far away. So he arrange for the three of us, at the top of the building (the most expensive).

In the building there are several other restaurants, among them one can see fish in the sea, through the glass. Sure enough, when we arrived, many people who want to eat above, but it was rejected, if no reservations. It was a beautiful building and very futuristic, but the food (buffet) not so good. Losing just eat buffets in Jakarta as Hyat hotels or Mariot (I prefer that the Hyat). After he returned, I was every day I go tour2 them. His name Arabian Adventure which is owned company that also flew Emirades is state owned. In the first 2 days with the show only half a day, but then continued to go in the morning and come home that night, because gone far, among others, to Abu Dhabi, Sharjjah, Fujairah and even to Oman as well (this is another country, so must bring passport.)

At first day2 where we separated from our tour of the streets themselves in and out of the mall (far away), and accidental misuse of a mall while we were eating lunch at the mall, I saw there a young couple who seem from Indonesia, also was dining near our table. So I asked what they were from Indonesia. And sure enough, a woman from Indonesia and the Malaysian girlfriend. A woman working as a hotel recepcionist misconstrued. So we got talking, and from it we can address some Indonesian food restaurant. So we get to eat at 3 restaurants (rest. Pearl, Singapore deli and Betawi).

In Dubai it was the original people are the minority (only 20% only), and the rest (80%) are immigrants to work from different countries (100 countries) with the largest Indian nation (30%). In Dubai we had a chance to meet many good people as a tourist, worker (guide and driver, etc.). al nation Brazil, Indonesia, Philippines, singapore, China, Thai, India, Pakistan, Croasia, russia, Marroko, Mozambique (this from her face white and black hair-and Portuguese-language-I think people brasil, but I was wrong), South Africa, american, canada, germany, Italy, Spain, Australia. This is what we got chatting, etc..

Although we are really in the desert, but everywhere we see a lot of green and diverse gardens of colorful flowers. Because the ground is placed a hollow rubber tube so that the water wetting the soil. We happened to come at a good season (winter, cold but at least 10 degrees C. The only positive), because if you get the summer over 50 degrees C.

In Abu Dhabi we visited a mosque which he said was the mosque that was built with the highest costs in the world and no. 2nd largest. Everything is covered in marble from Macedonia, which was sent to China had to be carved and painted, and just returned to Abu Dhabi.

Cristal lamps imported from Italy. It’s really beautiful and luxurious. That women should wear clothing in a black Islamic way, which lent freely. What money can do, wheter they do not have know-how. Low workers usually live far outside the city or country other parts of the EUA, for the expensive rent. Cheap gasoline only (260 dirhams per gallon = 4 liters), while diesel 1100 dirhams. (1 U.S. $ = 3.65 dirhams). All imported from outside.

In mana2 (in Dubai) we see the development. Now he says we are no longer in Dubai will see the Bedouin tribes who live at home and ride a camel huts, because the government  free house for them and if married to the money. if the child is born to money again. Meanwhile, foreign workers can only work permit longest 3 years. If you continue to work the same  could be extended. But if you move jobs to get out first, then ask for another work visa. A driver said that pakistan nation even though he was born in Dubai, he can not be a resident of Dubai.

The streets that often rust hour traffic, although the population of Dubai is only 1.2 million and wide path. (because many other parts of country living and working in Dubai.) We could imagine if the population reaches 5 million or more. There also are building a Metro, but only a small portion that will go in the ground. He said the hell with this current world crisis was already a change for example, hotels are fully booked no longer.

The language used mostly English, but all written in English and Arabic.
One night we brought the tour after a see museums, the place to sell gold and rempah2. A long street selling all the gold and the other wrote all the spices. He said the gold was cheaper, but with the number of tourist, it is not cheap anymore.

Spices were imported by ship and stacked located in the city streets until her days and no one waiting. Some plastic tarpaulin covered a little, but if the rain would because rarely rains, so they drift off course. Here it seems there is no theft, because otherwise we see people stopped his car and left up engine does not shut down. (boro2 locked). Also we see bikers, bike parking, put helm, a good leather jacket and purse on the bike, then he went storey building.

Differ slightly in Abu Dhabi, all have more regular because of their construction has been completed, because they started it first.

On another day we show called Safari. That is up SUF (rich big jeep) 4 whel drive = 4 x 4, fit 7 people into the desert sand with  and gunung2. Total 75 jeep all brands owned by Arabian adventure Toyota Land Cruiser V6-4500 vehicles and Chevorlet Tahoe cc V 8 – 5.400cc. He dang sand up and down, right side left side. Until there are some who throw anak2 including 1 girl we are from South Africa. But in addition to already available pocket to throw, too, they stop when we say.

The road was quite tight, because if you happen to stop a soft place to  road again, although previously been prepared by  tires. Our car had also  sand. another car to help but also mangkol.  out with the aid of human power, aka encouraged many people.

On another day the show to the Grand Canyon, which we went to a mountainous area of stone high and we got the jeep was in the valley = valley of her. Usually this street beside a river but there is only water when it rains again. The road is narrow and often winding  addition to meandering. If there is a car from the front to stop and just one street. This existence in Oman. That night we stopped by dilembah surrounded by mountains and performed belly dance over dinner. On this occasion we can ride a camel.

On the next day we went back to Oman (big bus), but the show almost the same (without the sand and rock), and we pay every tour. When going in Oman are warned not to take photos / the passport inspection. Everything’s fine, but the return time when going out, I happened to fall asleep, and woke my wife that passports will be checked. I woke up and saw a sign of welcome.

Not all tourists who visit the city of Luxor to know that in the era of ancient Egypt Luxor was the capital of the state (1550-1069 BC). Amenhothep pharaoh, Ramses II, even by ‘Alexander the Great’ from Macedomia. Piece of holiday we spent in Luxor helped make my experience one of the historic world famous heritage arkeologi.
Like most cities located in the valley of the Nile, Luxor was divided into two namely: the eastern and Luxor  west. Based on the ancient Egyptian belief that the circulation cycle of the sun (rising in the east and sets in the west) is a solar system that represents the life cycle of the Egyptians, then east of Luxor was the center of activity where all civilizations living creatures are born, grow, and live.

While western Luxor is the location of the grave / tomb and temple worship of the god of death. Luxor is now time to develop as a modern city where the majority of the population livelihood comes from tourism industry. Hotels, restaurants, shopping centers and other business activities centered on the east of the Nile. While other western Luxor remains the tomb complex is also a residential for farmers, ranchers, and fishermen.

The main tourist objects in the east is the Temple of Luxor Karnak and Luxor temples. After the famous Giza pyramids, Karnak Temple is the most important place in the history of pharaonic. Karnak Temple is filled with 134 columns with a gigantic fruit super large room that has no end, on both sides of the main gate before the Great hall stands a statue of granite Hypostyle King Ramses II. And at the heart of the temple complex of Karnak Temple is dedicated to Anum king of the gods.

Still in the Karnak temple complex, there is also a sacred lake where in ancient times used by the priests to cleanse themselves before performing the ritual worship or spiritual ceremonies. North side of the lake can we find the sacred stone statue of Khepri scarab (beetle Khepri) in a giant size. In Egyptian mythology, the god Khepri beetle believed to have the power to move the sun from rising to drown.

The second most important tourist objects of the Luxor temple, the temple was an ideal location in the heart of the city concentrated Luxor. Luxor temple construction extends to the Nile . Luxor temple architecture patrician features and elegant impression, built by Pharaoh Amenhotep III, later updated by Ramesses II. Even in the last decade under the rule of Alexander the Great, Luxor Temple further modified.

One of the unique corner in the temple of Luxor is the Mosque of Abu al-Haggag was built by the Arab government in the 13th century. At the main gate of the temple there is a obeliks of pink granite as high as 25m, initially fixed pair obeliks this, but one of obeliks the 19th century, moved to France as a gift from King Mohammed Ali for the people of France, who is now stuck in the de la Concorde – Paris. Do not worry if the evening went late, because the temple area is equipped with floodlighting which suggests an ancient, historical and exotic than the daytime tour.

For museum lovers, Luxor has two outstanding museums: the museum & Luxor Mummification Museum. As for tourists who prefers a culinary experience or simply wash the eyes, the heart of the city of Luxor is facilitated by wide sidewalks along the (road) Sharia al-Corniche along the river nil. Shops lined Snacks, floating restaurants, or cafes tents lined along the Sharia al-Corniche offers traditional cuisine and seafood.

Or other unique options that can be practiced using caleche services (carriage / wagon) take a carriage ride around town in Luxor, the place that looks cool or busy to visit, after the satisfaction of our city tour on foot came back the marketplace that has been observed earlier. Services caleche worth 10-15 Egyptian pounds, as usual caleche driver will give a high rate, but lasted just 15 pounds due to the normal tariff. Central Luxor with the main line is not more than 5km, so anywhere close, and concentrated.

One of the unique option to enjoy the river is nil dinner on cruise. Along the river there are many choices nil dinner on a floating cruise or hotel, so do not worry do not miss out. Hotel or restaurant permanently moored floating vessel, although its shape. With the choice we take sailing cruise along nil for 3-4jam, dinner on cruise with belly dancing entertainment or Whirling Dervishes show.

There is also a choice of more romantic dinner, dining on felucca (traditional sailing boats and white) while enjoying the sunset, this one needs to set up a high enough budget for his felucca special for us, because it cost too private prices.

The next day with a local tour agent, we were taken to the West Bank or also known as Thebes. After crossing the Nile at the first stop Colossi of Memnon, but the grandeur Colossi of Memnon only left with two statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III sits and plays his knees and clasped his hand view of the Nile eastward. Each statue weighs 1000 tons and 23m high.

The journey continues into the valley of the kings and queens, valley of Kings and Valley of Queens is not only a complex of tombs for kings and queens, but also allocated for the royal family or the nobility. Once paid tickets at the main gate Valley of Kings & Valley of Queens we have no longer charge for entry into the tomb. But for certain Pharaoh and famous visitors will be asked again if the additional contribution of interest to view the tomb. In just a tomb empty tomb, the mummy was moved to the Luxor Mummification Museum or the Museum of Cairo.

Still in the area of Thebes, the most famous objects and worth a visit is Hatshepsut Temple. Hatshepsut was the female pharaoh who ruled for 20 successful years. Due to legal partriarki very strong at that time, Hatshepsut dressed like this often his men, using the pharaoh headpiece, even a false beard. The image will look this Hatshepsut  on his statues in the temple. Although Egypt is not unusual pharaoh commanded by women, but the government within Hatshepsut, Egypt was brought to the peak of prosperity and stability of the country.

Important tips to plan a tour to Egypt that is between the months of November to April temperatures vary between months 20-26c. Hottest month in the daytime and very cold at night between the months of May to October. Provide sun lotion is always in my bag, because the day in a desert area with hot and dry winds can bake skin. Do not forget to bring sun glasses and use a turban or a hat is more useful than an umbrella.

Various accessibility, accommodation, security, and professional guide services, enabling more and more people enjoy the natural beauty of this increasingly rare. Kilimanjaro as a world natural heritage and to clean themselves in the last 4 years increased more tourists visit tripled..

Observing nature management in Kili, the way in the mission “Kilimanjaro for Lupus” continues to create awe and envy. Tanzania, a developing country with over 30 percent of the population below the poverty line, capable of highly disciplined. Marangu Gate is one of the 7 routes to the top of Kilimanjaro climbing at an altitude of 1800 m. The building manager’s office met with officials of the 3 candidates are lining up neatly climbers.

Front Kilimanjaro , complete with climbing up to the needs of souvenir merchandise. Bathroom facilities to sit and picnic area neat and clean, climbing four bulletin boards, prohibition, appeal and rule on the trim climbing backed wooden board with carved writing easy to read.

All the buildings identified with the board pointed out the obvious. No visible trash, but we did not find any trash scattered. The reliable guide to help us register and manage logistics with 26 porters, cooks, and assistant guide who is largely a Chagga tribe, the largest tribes in the Kilimanjaro region.

The pure natural atmosphere along the 70 km trip up and down we feel so deeply. Flora-fauna we encountered seemed calm is not disturbed. Picnic area in the form of a wooden bench tables, toilets clean cottage and maintained at every 5-7 km journey, 3 cabin capacity of 70 people climbers in Mandara, 148 people and 58 people Horombo on Kibo is ready to welcome.

Kilimanjaro guide

Each cottage triangular structure with bed apartment for 4-10 climbers are wooden buildings with bedding and pillows. The cottage was enough to make our bed more comfortable than the tent. In addition, there are toilets with abundant water, dining hall, kitchen and a special cabin guides and porters, plus a solar panel that illuminates every room ready every night.

Good facilities without the user discipline, whatever that means. In the guides holding KINAPA main key in the management of national parks. With the system guides pengategorian versus reward, they are required continually upgrade our services, natural sciences, technical knowledge of climbing and rescue, and the ability to communicate and speak.

Kilimanjaro  penalty, a suspension to revocation of license, apply KINAPA management to ensure no violations occur, such as fuel use is not recommended, disturb the flora fauna, the use of the route outside the provisions, negligence guides, and other strict regulations that could stop the source of their income guide .

Being a guide is the dream of many residents Chagga tribe who lived around the foot of Kilimanjaro. It took more than 5 years to become the head guide, with the highest rewards. 2-3 years experience with a reporter to forge physique, 2 years of education on the job training as an assistant guide, and finally by KINAPA test for certification guide.

Like in developing countries, the welfare of the guides and porters are still an important issue. Huge profits still more absorbed by the tour operators who live in urban areas. Completeness of climbing equipment facility until proper clothing can not always be fulfilled. Until much suffering and even death.

Kilimanjaro large association was formed in early 2003; KPAP (Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project) and KGPU (Kilimanjaro Guides and Porter’s Union). KPAP the initiative of the International Mountain Explorers Connection, based in America, the fight for the rights of reporters around the world, such as the Annapurna Sanctuary in the area of Nepal and the Inca trail in Peru. Equipment rental services until a proper clothing for free; English language training, to the knowledge of HIV P3K which hit eight percent of the population of Tanzania; personal financial management; and to provide education to the porter service users. KGPU was founded former guide and porter, Joseph Nyabasi, with the aim of improving the welfare of those who make a living from the mountain through the same mission.

Demands professionalism coupled with a variety of worker protection agencies in the mountain, making this area one of the most popular natural tourist destination.

Kilimanjaro as one of “The Big Seven” the highest mountain on every continent in the world to encourage the Government of Tanzania to clean themselves. Tanzania’s readiness to welcome the tourists this nature must also be replicated by governments and observer of nature in Indonesia, where Mount Carstensz Pyramid, Papua, Indonesia IDR region, also became one of “The Big Seven”.

Miracles often occur unexpectedly. I never dream to travel to Doha. What  I think, an excursion to the city in the middle of the desert that is less popular than his neighbor, Dubai and Bahrain this?

But anyway, it happened to various forcing me to stay in Doha. Beginning with aircraft engines fussiness Qatar Airways from Dubai to Jakarta, ahead of a stop over in Doha.

The result? The aircraft had to be replaced, some passengers, including myself, can not participate transported. That is, must be willing to wait for a connecting flight, 24 hours later.

“Stay? How could I not have a visa to enter Qatar?” Calmly, Lolita, QR flight attendants from the Philippines, immediately retorted, “Enjoy it. Visit Qatar, we will take care of everything …”

After all the immigration procedures took place, around 20 passengers  a delayed flight, leaving the airport, before the early morning escorted to Doha.

Slowly, from the bus window sparkled thousands of electric lights from the middle of the desert. A moment later, like in a fairy tale, from behind the thick fog, popping images that more and more clear, dozens of skyscrapers.

The existence of particular Doha and Qatar in general, 1001 was not a fairy tale night, when the spirits and fairies are still here and there, flying carpet ride. However, in the event the official closing of the Games Asian Games XV in December, the legend of 1001 Night deliberately displayed.

“What’s wrong? Instead we will prove, the people of Qatar to build in an instant, just an old fairy tale,” replied the executive officer of development.

Triggered AG XV

So far, the international talks, Qatar’s most known for being the only transmission center Al Jazeerah TV network. Network TV news from Arab countries an alternative that appears to be the main competitor to offset the monopoly news CNN and the BBC.

Then, the Asian Games to trigger development. This is what is at stake. Holding 39 kinds of international competitions, attended by thousands of athletes from 45 countries to broadcast live to serve the 1.7 billion viewers across Asia. Various types: swimming, squash, rugby, sport riding, sailing, chess, football. In short, to be contested, all require a special track and field.

The challenge was started six years ago, when the Olympic Council of Asia with the International Olympic Committee pointed to Doha to host the Asian Games XV Beat town rival much more famous: Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, and New Delhi. Now, everything has been answered.

Khalifa Stadium, the building in 1976, the total restored soon. Be it a stadium covered with multi-race in the world, with the plain area of 73,000 square meters. Equipped Sports City which has seven multi-purpose building following the match international athletes village.

However, Qatar to design everything with the business calculations. All kinds of construction of sports facilities are the Asian Games, after the race pasta used to accommodate students from around the world who study at the Academy for Sports Excellence. In fact, former athletes village, began in early 2007 it had become a container for the patient Doha’s Medical City.

“XV Asian Games have ended, but his legacy is still in the heart of sustainable communities,” said Lolita, QR flight attendant who had acted during a private tour guide.

Traveled to Doha was impressive. Especially since three years ago, the people of Qatar has formulated a new constitution that guarantees freedom of religion, expression and assembly.

Qatar is now no longer the old-fashioned and conservative kingdom. Qatar’s new constitution still basing themselves to the teachings of Islam combined with the guaranteed rights of the universal human.

The fact that the Qatari community bring gender equality. Seemed to six women in representative institutions, ahead of similar opportunities in other Gulf region. In fact, the position of minister, since last year, also has started entrusted to women.

Hidden Behind the Veil

The beauty of Qatar as the face of a girl beautiful, still hidden behind veils. This country has a coastline 650 km. In addition research shows, the area at the edge of the southern desert of Arabia is already occupied by humans since ancient times, when the local climate was not as hot today.

Cultural heritage is also very attractive, such as the Mosque of Abu Bakir al-Siddiq. Equipped kokohnya fort Al Zubara and Al Koot, evidence Qatar strategic position, so that should be preserved from the invasion of the pirates passing there.

Although not always taken into account, the wealth of oil reserves are contained in the desert has changed Qatar, a country with only those over 800,000, became one of the richest countries in the world. Equipped with the largest natural gas reserves in the world. Not surprisingly, the GDP of Qatar including the highest in the world, 30,000 U.S. dollars per capital per year.

Suddenly, Lolita warned, “Do not forget, we have to Shahaniya.” This song must for those serious excursion into Qatar. An area of rare places Oryx, mountain goats typical Qatar settled. As a special animal, Oryx appear to be the mascot for the Asian Games XV and a symbol of Qatar Airways.

Invitation to watch a mountain goat I soon follow. Perhaps because he stewardess QR, perhaps because they want to retreat into the desert.

the southern part of Africa is truly unique charm not least in the places most popular attractions in the world. Prove yourself and feel the sensation.

Imagining the State of South Africa, perhaps only the forest and desert looming. When in fact South Africa is a beautiful country with many natural resources. Not only abundant natural wealth, the South Africans call their country as the Country of the Rainbow. In fact, 48 million people not only black but also white, yellow, brown, and so forth, and come from various parts of the world are colored with 11 different types of language.

This country used to control the white community who imposed apartheid policies. Meaning, they are black so only second-class citizens. But since 1994, finally abolished apartheid and brought Nelson Mandela as the first black president. They are now very uphold human rights and may receive a black history of this nation are grown together.

Located in the southern region of the African continent with an area of about 1,219,912 km2. This country has other plants are very diverse. More than 20,000 kinds of plants or about 10% of all known plants around the world. And various kinds of protected wild animals in some national parks.

Unfortunately, extreme weather changes that happened recently resulted in the average temperature in this country increased between 1 – 4 ° C and resulted in some endangered species both flora and fauna threatened with extinction.

Country of the Rainbow is very interesting to visit directly with several attractions available here, among others:

Religion Tourism
oase_3_ed24 Muslims in South Africa is only 1.5% of the population, but this religion has been given its own color for this country. Largest Islamic population in South Africa is located in the area, Cape Town. This area is the area where the slaves, the disposal of politicians and clerics carried by the Dutch from Southeast Asia in the 17th century and the 18th. Here they form the Cape Malay community. So do not be surprised if you still hear the words Malays as “trimma kaasi” or “Barakat” [blessing]. Oase_5_ed24

BoKaap stood in the first and oldest mosque in South Africa, namely Auwal Mosque. This mosque was founded in 1798 and the Imam Abdullah Kadi Abdus Salaam or Master Teacher. From here the history of Islam in South Africa begins. The second is the Palm Tree Mosque built in 1820 is a house converted into a mosque. Mosques in the area BoKaap looks very interesting, in contrast to the housing in this area are made of colorful.

Besides the mosque, there are several important tombs of the scholars of Islam propagator called Karamat. And there are about 23 Karamat around Cape Town, one of the most famous is the tomb of Sheikh Yusuf, a major scholar, nephew of the king of Gowa, who disposed of the Netherlands and founded the village of Makassar. During his lifetime, he was actively spreading the religion of Islam and raise awareness to be free from colonialism. It turned out that awareness is recognized Nelson Mandela, inspired her to liberate South Africa from apartheid.

Beach tourism
single most attractive tourist charms of the Cape Town area is the beach. Right at the foot of Table Mountain, or a mountain shaped like a table, there are Beach Victoria & Alfred Waterfront [Waterfront V & A]. This area is part of the Port of Table Bay, the main port in Cape Town who conjured a tourist area. What is interesting is the population of wild seals are not left alone and allowed to live side by side with a busy harbor.

Also we can find the population of penguins at Boulders Beach Beach area is located in the waters of False Bay, or East coast of the Cape Peninsula. In the natural Reserve in the area of Table Mountain National Park, there are approximately 4000 African penguin tail. Not only that. If you are lucky, from the shore we could see a group of whales
come to the surface in the middle of the sea.
Safari Tours
vacation to South Africa if you have not tried safari, or peering directly wildlife in its place. In this country there are few places on offer for safari tourists, among them the Kruger National Park. The National Park is located in the Transvaal Province, bordering Mozambique. This park has an area of up to 19,486 km2 and has 33 kinds of amphibians, 100 species of reptiles, 45 species of fish, 450 species of birds, and more than 120 species of mammals.

In addition to the trip can be continued Sabi Sand Reserve, which borders the park
Kruger National in the West. In this area is the famous leopard can be seen at close range through the Land Rovers that have been specifically provided. If you want a slightly different experience, try it . A national park in KwaZulu Natal which besides having a variety of flora and fauna species, also has painted historic cave inhabitants of this area of forest approximately 100,000 years ago