Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Gadling http://www.gadling.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Emirates comes to Seattle, launches nonstop Dubai service]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/03/emirates-comes-to-seattle-launches-nonstop-dubai-service/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/03/emirates-comes-to-seattle-launches-nonstop-dubai-service/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/03/emirates-comes-to-seattle-launches-nonstop-dubai-service/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Living in Seattle has its trade offs, travel-wise. You're closer to Alaska and Hawaii and Japan and places you'd never thought you'd visit, like the Yukon. But it takes an incredibly long time to get to the Caribbean, Europe or almost anywhere else, and there aren't as many non-stop long-haul flights as you might wish.

Enter Emirates. By adding a non-stop flight from Seattle to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, the airline instantly opens up easier travel to the Middle East, Africa and India - a boon for the Emerald City's multicultural population. The flight to Dubai will take about 12 hours, with a 14 hour return.

The service launched March 1 with a press conference, appearances by flight attendants wearing the trademark Emirates pillbox hat and scarf and an arriving plane full of various dignitaries. As the headquarters of Boeing, Seattle has a rich aviation history and you could see the ground crews taking cell phone photos of the Emirates plane as it pulled through a water turret salute to unload at the gate.

Seattle isn't the only West Coast beneficiary of recent Emirates expansion. The airline opened a 9,502 square foot lounge in San Francisco last month that boasts marble floors, Rolex watches and chauffeur service for Silicon Valley execs lucky enough to be in those highly regarded First Class private suites or Business Class.

Things aren't that fancy up here in the Pacific Northwest. But one thing that will make Seattle frequent fliers happy: Emirates has partnered with Alaska Airlines for its mileage program. So maybe those lie flat beds aren't as unattainable as you might think.

Emirates comes to Seattle, launches nonstop Dubai service originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 03 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emiratesSeaTacseattleSat, 03 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The continuing rise of Gulf state carriers]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/28/the-continuing-rise-of-gulf-state-carriers/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/28/the-continuing-rise-of-gulf-state-carriers/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/28/the-continuing-rise-of-gulf-state-carriers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

gulf state carriers

The rise of Gulf state carriers continues to impress. These airlines, which have defined themselves in part as hub-and-spoke carriers linking Europe (and the eastern coast of North America) to Asia, have developed exciting route maps over the last several years with a particularly strong reach into the Arabian Peninsula and India.

While other airlines have recently attempted to develop their hub airports for intercontinental hub-and-spoke connections as well - Finnair's recasting of Helsinki as a northern Europe-Asia hub is one example - the Gulf carriers really stand out in global terms.

Yet, awareness of their services remains far lower than it should be among Americans, despite the presence of Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways at a handful of major US airports.

The Gulf state carriers' key consumer product is a luxury flight with premium class service and a truly over-the-top experience on all three airlines. On Emirates, first class passengers are treated to private suites. Etihad's Diamond First Class features flatbeds, personal mini-bars, and anytime dining, while Qatar Airways' First Class offers turndown service with an amenity kit including products by Prada. With perks like these, it is clear that these carriers are establishing new standards for premium class service.

Even in coach, however, these airlines are delivering a decent product. I experienced the Qatar Airways economy treatment on a recent mid-haul journey from London, via Doha, and back. There was more legroom than in standard coach and the ongoing parade of meals and snacks was, if not exactly delicious, then without question, a cut above average airplane food.

Route maps, however, provide the most interesting dimension of the rise of the Gulf state carriers. While there is quite a bit of overlap between airlines, each airline covers some original territory. Let's look at where these airlines fly.

Continue reading The continuing rise of Gulf state carriers

The continuing rise of Gulf state carriers originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abu dhabiAbuDhabidohadubaiemiratesetihadFinnairfirst classfirst class travelFirstClassFirstClassTravelgulf state carriersGulfStateCarriersluxuryluxury travelLuxuryTravelqataruaeunited arab emiratesUnitedArabEmiratesTue, 28 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 St. Patrick's Day alternatives to Dublin, Ireland]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/26/10-st-patricks-day-alternatives-to-dublin-ireland/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/26/10-st-patricks-day-alternatives-to-dublin-ireland/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/26/10-st-patricks-day-alternatives-to-dublin-ireland/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

st. patricks day While travelers often think of Dublin, Ireland, as the must-visit place for St. Patrick's Day, there are many other excellent destinations all over the world to celebrate the festivities. To help you decide where to spend March 17 this year, check out this list of ten excellent St. Patrick's Day destinations.

New York

I've attended St. Patrick's Day in New York many times and can honestly say it is something everyone should experience at least once in his or her life. Their annual parade down 5th Avenue (shown above), which will take place this year beginning at 11AM at 44th Street, has been happening since 1762 and is said to be the largest in the world. Although the parade does not allow floats, it is a festive event with over 150,000 marchers coming out to participate each year. For those who want a little culture and history, take a walking tour of the former "Little Ireland" in the Lower East Side, which in the 19th century had more Irish residents than Dublin. At night, choose what kind of atmosphere you'd like to enjoy. Whether in dive bars, Irish pubs, dance clubs, or upscale lounges, there are a myriad of specials and parties going on in every neighborhood of the city.

If you'd like to celebrate St. Patty's in New York but want to stay away from the crowds and high prices, travel up to the state capital of Albany and partake in their annual "Kegs and Eggs" celebration. I've gone four years in a row and can vouch that it is definitely a festive time. Warning: This is only for those who are looking to get sloppy. The bars open at 7AM and before that you can find myriad parties happening from 3AM on. You can also enjoy their 62nd annual St. Patrick's Day parade, which will take place this year on March 17 at 2PM starting at Quail Street and Central Avenue.

Continue reading 10 St. Patrick's Day alternatives to Dublin, Ireland

10 St. Patrick's Day alternatives to Dublin, Ireland originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 26 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argentinaasiabeerbudget travelBudgetTravelbuenos airesBuenosAiresdubaieventsfestivalsholidaysirishnew yorkNewYorknightlifeparadesseoulsouth koreaSouthKoreast.patricks daySt.patricksDayunited kingdomUnitedKingdomSun, 26 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video of the day: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque projections]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/27/video-of-the-day-sheikh-zayed-grand-mosque-projections/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/27/video-of-the-day-sheikh-zayed-grand-mosque-projections/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/27/video-of-the-day-sheikh-zayed-grand-mosque-projections/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Projections from Obscura Digital on Vimeo.

Ready to see a beautiful video that will brighten your afternoon? Then check out this gorgeous video featuring the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. Projectors, 44 to count, came together form a combined brightness of 840,000 lumens. The images from these projectors covered a 600 foot wide and 351 foot high surface on the building. Mostly floral patterns were projected alongside filigree-type designs, creating a stunning imagery any visitors undoubtedly enjoyed. Were you lucky enough to see this display first-hand? Please tell us about it in the comments if so.

Continue reading Video of the day: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque projections

Video of the day: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque projections originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand mosqueGrandMosquemosquemosque artmosque imagesmosque videoMosqueArtMosqueImagesMosqueVideoprojections on mosqueProjectionsOnMosqueprojectors on mosqueProjectorsOnMosquesheikh zayed grand mosqueSheikhZayedGrandMosqueunited arabunited arab emiratesunited arab mosqueUnitedArabUnitedArabEmiratesUnitedArabMosqueFri, 27 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The malls of Dubai: Skiing, scuba diving, and shopping]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/04/the-malls-of-dubai-skiing-scuba-diving-and-shopping/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/04/the-malls-of-dubai-skiing-scuba-diving-and-shopping/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/04/the-malls-of-dubai-skiing-scuba-diving-and-shopping/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Dubai Malls

Every country has its own culture of shopping. Italy has the pedigree, with worn estate leather goods from Tuscany and glittering catwalks fueling Milan's couture. America boasts 5th Avenue, the biggest week in fashion, and the cookie-cutter malls of middle-America. Shopping in Paris is as elegant as it is expensive, where visiting the temples of Chanel, Dior, and Hermes is like a Hajj for fashionistas. Getting fitted for a suit on Savile Row in London is a gentlemanly apex, one that is best achieved while gently pulling on a cherry-wood pipe and commenting on cheeky matters from a pink-tinged page of the Financial Times.

In Dubai, The malls are king. Vast expanses of high end extravagance, these oases from the draping emirate heat are stocked with Gucci, Tom Ford, Louis Vuitton, and any other brand that peddles four-figure handbags to the jet set. Just as America brought the shopping mall to retail prominence, Dubai has perfected the art, blown it up, and put it all back together with megatons of glitter, pomp, and reckless luxury. But more so than brands and shine, the malls of Dubai also have other extraordinary features. A skating rink and a movie theater? That is so 20th century. How about scuba diving, snow skiing, and visiting the tallest building in the world? Welcome to the malls of Dubai.

Gallery: The Malls of Dubai: Skiing, scuba diving, and shopping

Dubai Mall entranceInside the Dubai mall entranceDubai Mall is stunningLooking up, Dubai MallDubai Mall

Continue reading The malls of Dubai: Skiing, scuba diving, and shopping

The malls of Dubai: Skiing, scuba diving, and shopping originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>at.mosphereburj khalifaBurjKhalifadubaidubai malldubai mallsdubai shoppingDubaiMallDubaiMallsDubaiShoppingJustin DelaneyJustinDelaneymall of the emiratesMallOfTheEmiratesscubashoppingski dubaiSkiDubaiunited arab emiratesUnitedArabEmiratesWed, 04 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New world's tallest building planned for Saudi Arabia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/03/new-worlds-tallest-building-planned-for-saudi-arabia/http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/03/new-worlds-tallest-building-planned-for-saudi-arabia/http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/03/new-worlds-tallest-building-planned-for-saudi-arabia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

tallest buildingLess than two years after the Burj Khalifa opened in Dubai, Saudi Arabia's Prince Alwaleed bin Talal has announced a new world's tallest building to be built on the Red Sea resort town of Jeddah. The Saudi building is planned to be 172 meters (564 feet) taller than the Burj and will stand at 1,000 meters or 3,281 feet. It will be part of the $20 billion "megadevelopment" Kingdom City and will house luxury condos, offices, and of course, a hotel. The prince has signed a $1.23 billion deal with the Bin Laden Group, the largest construction firm in Saudi Arabia and unaffiliated with Osama Bin Laden, to complete the new tallest building in five years.

Last month, Gadling explored the 2,717 foot Burj Khalifa. Gadling and Huffington Post blogger Melanie Nayer was one of the first guests at the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong earlier this year, currently the highest hotel in the world. Check out our gallery below of the world's tallest buildings.

Gallery: World's tallest buildings

The Burj Khalifa - tallest building in the worldTaipei 101Petronas Towers, Kuala LumpurChicago skyline with Willis TowerEmpire State Building with rainbow lights


Image of Dubai's Burj Khalifa by Flickr user Jason Rodman.

New world's tallest building planned for Saudi Arabia originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burjburj dubaiburj khalifaBurjDubaiBurjKhalifadubaihong kongHongKonghuffington postHuffingtonPostjeddahkhalifamelanie nayerMelanieNayerred seaRedSearitz carltonritz carlton hong kongritz-carltonRitzCarltonRitzCarltonHongKongsaudi arabiaSaudiArabiatallesttallest buildingtallest hotelTallestBuildingTallestHotelworlds tallestWorldsTallestWed, 03 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[An Island of luxury in a sea of desert: Al Maha Desert Resort in Dubai]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/07/13/an-island-of-luxury-in-a-sea-of-desert-al-maha-desert-resort-in/http://www.gadling.com/2011/07/13/an-island-of-luxury-in-a-sea-of-desert-al-maha-desert-resort-in/http://www.gadling.com/2011/07/13/an-island-of-luxury-in-a-sea-of-desert-al-maha-desert-resort-in/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

al maha

Every city needs a quick getaway spot, even global centers for tourism. Parisians head for the lakes and beaches of southern France, Hong Kongers ferry to Macau for quick gambling fixes, Bostonians head for the cape to be seen and sun, and the people of Dubai escape the city for...the desert? Yes, the desert.

Indeed, the desert seems an unlikely place in which to unwind and be pampered, but a resort just outside of Dubai has perfected the art of luxuriously stranding its guests among the dunes. Al Maha, a desert-resort situated on a conservation reserve, outclasses much of its Dubai counterparts in the hospitality industry, which is no small feat. The property provides exclusively personal villas with private pools overlooking the unique wildlife sanctuary as well as all-inclusive dining and excursions. Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa lends a paradisial quality and adventurous spirit to a land known as the empty quarter.

Gallery: A desert oasis - Al Maha desert resort and wildlife

Some Oryx munching next to the spaBedouin Suite (most basic) living area with an incredible view over the dunesBedouin suite tubEach villa comes equipped with a private pool - perfect for afternoon dips

Continue reading An Island of luxury in a sea of desert: Al Maha Desert Resort in Dubai

An Island of luxury in a sea of desert: Al Maha Desert Resort in Dubai originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>al mahaAlMahaconservationdesertdubaiDunedune bashingDuneBashingFalconryoryxsand dunesSandDunesWed, 13 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring the world's tallest structure - the Burj Khalifa]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/07/06/exploring-the-worlds-tallest-structure-the-burj-khalifa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/07/06/exploring-the-worlds-tallest-structure-the-burj-khalifa/http://www.gadling.com/2011/07/06/exploring-the-worlds-tallest-structure-the-burj-khalifa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

burj khalifaThe tallest building in the world does not appear made for this earth. By day it looks photoshopped into its downtown Dubai surroundings, and by night, the hulking spire looks like a rocket bound for the furthest reaches of our galaxy. And like a giant middle finger to its predecessors in the tallest building club, the structure is a testament to the audacity of Dubai - an idea that, what they build is what they are, and they are going to try and build the best.

While the world economic markets receded, Dubai kept building the beast called Khalifa. At a cost of $1.5 billion and a height of 2,717 feet, it humbles the surrounding skyscrapers in downtown Dubai. It possesses at least fifteen world records. It has the highest restaurant, the most floors, and is also the tallest structure ever built. The Middle East has not been home to the world's tallest structure since 700 years ago, when the Great Pyramid of Giza was eclipsed by Lincoln Cathedral in England.

Gallery: Burj Khalifa: The tallest building on the planet

The Burj Khalifa at nightThe Burj Khalifa towers over the downtown Dubai skylineBurj KhalifaLike a rocket

Continue reading Exploring the world's tallest structure - the Burj Khalifa

Exploring the world's tallest structure - the Burj Khalifa originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armaniarmani hotelarmani hotel dubaiArmaniHotelArmaniHotelDubaiAt the topat.mosphereAt.mosphereDubaiAtTheTopburj khalifaBurjKhalifadubaiDubai WorldDubaiWorldtallest buildingTallestBuildingTallestBuildingInTheWorldunited arab emiratesUnitedArabEmiratesWed, 06 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Seven courses at the highest restaurant in the world - At.mosphere in Dubai]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/28/seven-courses-at-the-highest-restaurant-at-mosphere-dubai/http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/28/seven-courses-at-the-highest-restaurant-at-mosphere-dubai/http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/28/seven-courses-at-the-highest-restaurant-at-mosphere-dubai/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

at.mosphere dubai

Dubai is a city of realized hyperbole. It has the tallest building in the world, man-made islands shaped like the world's continents, and a restaurant high high above the towering skyscrapers below. At.mosphere, a restaurant in Dubai's towering Burj Khalifa, provides a dining experience with a view reminiscent of glancing out the window of a plane. It is preposterously thrilling to savor a plate of foie gras 122 floors above what appears to be the world's largest game of Sim City developing below, spreading out into open desert.

Reaching At.mosphere involves a few steps absent from most dining arrangements. First, one must enter the tallest building in the world, approach a sleek metal elevator, and make a very important choice that is really no choice at all. Only one option exists in the elevator - floor 123. With no stops to make on the way up, the elevator travels with a speedy transcendence that feels just a few technological steps removed from teleportation - 33 feet per second. In the time it takes a middle school graduate to read this paragraph, the doors swing open to reveal a spiral staircase leading to the restaurant one floor below.

Gallery: Seven courses at the top of the world - At.mosphere in Dubai

The Burj Khalifa - tallest building in the world1 choice - floor 123A cantilevered spiral staircase by designer Carol BoveThe staircase leads down to At.mosphere one floor belowThe view is unparalleled

Continue reading Seven courses at the highest restaurant in the world - At.mosphere in Dubai

Seven courses at the highest restaurant in the world - At.mosphere in Dubai originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>at.mosphereat.mosphere dubaiAt.mosphereDubaiburj khalifaBurjKhalifadubaifoodtallest building in the worldTallestBuildingInTheWorldunited arab emiratesUnitedArabEmiratesTue, 28 Jun 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dubai's iconic Burj Al Arab - the world's most glamorous hotel]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/21/the-iconic-burj-al-arab-the-worlds-most-glamorous-hotel/http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/21/the-iconic-burj-al-arab-the-worlds-most-glamorous-hotel/http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/21/the-iconic-burj-al-arab-the-worlds-most-glamorous-hotel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

burj al arab

Long before Dubai began showing up at the bottom of fashion advertisements along with Paris, New York, and Tokyo, it was all sand and ambition. It was once simply desert and an idea. An "if you build it, they will come" on the most massive scale. Build it, they did.

As the years piled on, Dubai transformed. The skyscrapers grew like weeds in an untended lawn. Any doubt that the city was primed to be a world class destination was responded to with the sonic roar of hundreds of buildings rising from the ground almost overnight. Ready or not, here it comes.

Today, the hotels in Dubai have more stars than the milky way. The roads run smooth and are stocked with fluorescent hypercars and murdered out Mercedes Gelandewagens. Construction cranes sway in the gentle Arabian breeze next to impossibly tall buildings. The malls have ski slopes and aquariums with neat little Guinness World Record plaques. Man-made islands shaped like palm trees maximize beach front real estate just offshore. It is a place where the compendium of engineering knowledge has been plundered, nudging the limits of man-made extravagance into open space. Engineers come to Dubai to test the pliability of steel, the outrageous whims of architectural imagination, and the possibility of solving impossible problems.

And it all began with one building - the Burj Al Arab.

Gallery: The Iconic Burj Al Arab Hotel

The Burj Al Arab towering over the surrounding Madinat Jumeriah groundsThe Burj Al Arab from the frontInitially called 7 star by the media, Jumeriah (parent company) downplays this claimA nice beach near the BurjOne road leads to the Burj Al Arab which was built on a man-made island

Continue reading Dubai's iconic Burj Al Arab - the world's most glamorous hotel

Dubai's iconic Burj Al Arab - the world's most glamorous hotel originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>al qasrAlQasrburj al arabBurj al-Arab hotelBurjAl-arabHotelBurjAlArabdubaiJumeriahunited arab emiratesUnitedArabEmiratesTue, 21 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kids help Jumeirah release 101 rehabilitated sea turtles]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/19/video-kids-help-jumeirah-release-101-rehabilitated-sea-turtles/http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/19/video-kids-help-jumeirah-release-101-rehabilitated-sea-turtles/http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/19/video-kids-help-jumeirah-release-101-rehabilitated-sea-turtles/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Over 100 rehabilitated sea turtles tasted freedom last Thursday when they were released into the Arabian Gulf. The hawksbill turtles were set free just outside of the Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah hotels in time for World Sea Turtle Day. Both hotels serve as rehabilitation locations for the turtles in the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project.

For the big release, 101 children - including competition winners, pupils from a local school and even some hotel guests - released the turtles from the beach of Madinat Jumeirah, with the Burj Al Arab in the background. The Jumeirah group says the event was designed to raise awareness of the importance of the program, as well as issues facing turtles. The hawksbill turtle population has seen an 87 percent decline in its population over the last three decades.

Watch the cute little turtles crawl their way to the ocean to the delight of all the onlookers on the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project's Facebook page.

[Photo courtesy Jumeirah]

Kids help Jumeirah release 101 rehabilitated sea turtles originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 19 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burj al arabBurjAlArabdubai turtle rehabilitation programDubaiTurtleRehabilitationProgramjumeirahmadinat jumeirahMadinatJumeirahsea turtlesSeaTurtlesSun, 19 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fashion TV network to open branded hotel in Dubai]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/20/fashion-tv-network-to-open-hotel-in-dubai/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/20/fashion-tv-network-to-open-hotel-in-dubai/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/20/fashion-tv-network-to-open-hotel-in-dubai/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

fashion hotel dubaiArmani helped design his namesake hotel in the Dubai's Burj Khalifa. Diane Von Furstenberg has her own designed suites at Claridge's in London. Missoni opened two hotels - Edinburgh and Kuwait - to help promote the line's home decor. The Verscace legend lives in on at his mansion, now the Villa by Barton G, in Miami Beach. So it was only a matter of time before fashion took over the hospitality industry (or at least took over one hotel).

News from the Middle East is that global satellite network Fashion TV signed a deal with Al Habtoor Group to open the world's first Fashion Hotel in Dubai. Al Habtoor will own and operate the 5-star, 200-room hotel, which will feature a 100-m (328-foot) LED screen on the exterior of the 30-story building broadcasting the latest Fashion TV highlights from around the globe.

Inside the hotel, all 30 of the Fashion TV network's channels will be broadcast in guestrooms, and guests will also have access to a library of 50,000 DVDs related to the history of fashion. There are plans to open restaurants, bars, lounges, nightclubs, spas and cinemas inside the hotel, although details haven't been leaked on what the concepts will be.

What we do know: This won't be the only Fashion Hotel. Al Habtoor Group and Fashion TV said in an interview that plans are to open other Fashion Hotels in high-style locations around the world. We have our bets on Paris, Shanghai, New York, and Milan.

[Source: HOTELSMag.com]

Fashion TV network to open branded hotel in Dubai originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 20 May 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dubaifashionhotelsluxury hotelsLuxuryHotelsFri, 20 May 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gallery: More travel sketches from BBC's Tim Baynes]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/18/gallery-more-travel-sketches-from-bbcs-tim-baynes/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/18/gallery-more-travel-sketches-from-bbcs-tim-baynes/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/18/gallery-more-travel-sketches-from-bbcs-tim-baynes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

travel sketches
We wrote yesterday about Tim Baynes' delightful travel sketches from around the world on BBC and liked them so much we came back for more. You can (and should!) get lost for hours looking at his drawings on Flickr with fun anecdotes and scribbles bringing depth and humor to his slice-of-life artwork.

Check out some of our favorites in the gallery below, from a look inside the BBC Starbucks to the madness of Dubai immigration during the ash cloud to a quiet barbershop in Tripoli.

Gallery: Tim Baynes travel drawings from around the world

Eurostar passengersTorontoDubai arrivals during 2010 ash cloudJapanese fashionLondon tube commuting and texting


See more of Tim Baynes' work on the BBC, his personal Flickr stream, or order a copy of his book Doors to Automatic and Cross Check, direct from the artist.

All photos courtesy of Tim Baynes.

Gallery: More travel sketches from BBC's Tim Baynes originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 18 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artartworkash cloudAshCloudbarberbarber shopBarberShopbbccommutingdim sumDimSumdrawingsdubaienglandeurostarhong kongHongKongimmigrationistanbullibyalondonmapmoleskinesketchesstarbuckssubwaytextingtim baynesTimBaynestorontotraintravel sketchesTravelSketchestripolitubtubeWed, 18 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dubai tour company offers pirate hunting cruises off horn of Africa]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/01/dubai-tour-company-offers-pirate-hunting-cruises-off-horn-of-afr/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/01/dubai-tour-company-offers-pirate-hunting-cruises-off-horn-of-afr/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/01/dubai-tour-company-offers-pirate-hunting-cruises-off-horn-of-afr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

pirate

After years of murders, kidnappings, and heists, the lawless sea near the horn of Africa seems to be getting worse. A Dubai firm is capitalizing on these pirate infested waters with a strange new form of pirate tourism. The tour company, Dubai based Seahunters LLC, sells both 7 and 14 day cruises embarking from Salalah, Oman and Abu Dhabi, UAE. Unlike the quintessential cruise, the cruisers do not board in hopes of devouring mid-morning nacho buffets or snorkeling with dolphins. These cruisers board in hopes of embarking on a hunting trip with the most taboo of target - humans.

Like any proper cruise, you can choose a type of stateroom with offers ranging from the humble sounding "standard inside" to the opulent "Hemingway suite." The similarities to any other cruise end abruptly when you begin assembling your personal armory. With offerings such as the predictably yielding "bazooka package" and a "mercenary madness" kit, you can personalize your weapons cache almost endlessly. The "mercenary madness" package includes rental of a M107 .50 caliber sniper rifle, an AR 15 assault rifle, and an 18kt gold plated Desert Eagle pistol. Bow and arrows are also available for purists. Flamethrowers can be rented as well, though require a 3 day licensing course prior to departure.

Continue reading Dubai tour company offers pirate hunting cruises off horn of Africa

Dubai tour company offers pirate hunting cruises off horn of Africa originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 01 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april foolsAprilFoolscruisecruise shipcruisesCruiseShipdubaiFlameThrowergulf of adenGulfOfAdenGunsmogadishumuscatomanpiratePiratesSocotrasomali piratessomaliaSomaliPiratesYemenFri, 01 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Retail therapy: Istanbul ShoppingFest begins March 18]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/16/retail-therapy-istanbul-shoppingfest-begins-march-18/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/16/retail-therapy-istanbul-shoppingfest-begins-march-18/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/16/retail-therapy-istanbul-shoppingfest-begins-march-18/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Istanbul shoppingfestEvery year, many people visit Istanbul to shop in the historic Grand Bazaar to haggle over carpets, Turkish tea glasses, and souvenir t-shirts. But most locals do their shopping in Istanbul's many malls, markets, high streets like Istiklal near Taksim Square and Bağdat on the Asian side, and neighborhoods such as posh Nişantaşı and funky Çukurcuma. This year, from March 18 to April 26, travelers can take advantage of the best of all worlds with the first Istanbul ShoppingFest, also celebrating the 550th birthday of the Grand Bazaar. For 40 days, shoppers can get special discounts and win prizes, shop late into the night (with bigger discounts after 10pm), and be entertained with performances and events. Each Saturday, one mall each on the European and Asian sides will stay open until 2am, and all malls will be open until 11pm daily during the fest. In addition to sale prices, foreign travelers can get tax back on purchases at various malls around the city and enter raffles with each 40 TL (about $25 USD) spent.

Already established in India, Singapore, and Dubai in usual sale seasons, Istanbul's promotion will hold a special draw as discounts will apply to new season merchandise and take place over several major holidays including Easter, Passover, and Iranian Nowruz. With this festival, Turkey hopes to carry over some of the momentum from last year's European Capital of Culture designation, and become the destination of choice for travelers from nearby countries such as Russia, Iran, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, Greece, Rumania, Syria and Iraq.

Check out more details and events at www.istshopfest.com and follow their Facebook page and Twitter @istshopfest. See also the March issue of Time Out Istanbul in English for feature guides to the fest and the Grand Bazaar.

[Photo courtesy Flickr user antonystanley]

Retail therapy: Istanbul ShoppingFest begins March 18 originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bagdatbazaarcarpetcukurcumadiscountdiscountsdubaieasterfestivalgrand bazaargrandbazaarindiairanianistanbulistanbul shoppingfestIstanbulShoppingfestistiklalmallmarketnisantasinowruzpassoversalesshoppingsingaporesouvenirtax freetaxfreeteaturkishWed, 16 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Blogger Justin Delaney]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/15/blogger-justin-delaney/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/15/blogger-justin-delaney/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/15/blogger-justin-delaney/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Justin Delaney Introducing a new blogger at Gadling, Justin Delaney...

Where was your photo taken:
This photo was taken in Dahab, Egypt on the Red Sea - one of the coolest places I have ever been. Here I am enjoying a well deserved sheesha after climbing Mount Sinai.

Where do you live now:
I live in Dallas, TX.

Scariest airline flown:
On a flight from Bagan, Yangon Airways had me gripping my armrest in white knuckled terror. As we flew over the plains of Burma, the plane bobbed and weaved nature's windy jabs, and I felt my stomach slingshot to the back of my throat. Their slogan, "You're safe with us" seemed ominous under these circumstances. My terror hit a personal threshold when the flight attendant spilled a drink on some guy's head three rows up. Panic spread throughout the cabin. I kissed the ground when we landed. A few months later, their aviation license was revoked.

Favorite city/place:
Hong Kong is my favorite city. Nothing hustles like HK. It is grimy and beautiful - everything about that city is balanced like yin and yang. Most people do not realize that beyond the forest of skyscrapers, Hong Kong is 40% parkland. My favorite place is 100 feet underwater in Indonesia, getting to know some local pelagics.

Most remote corner of the globe visited:
The rain-forest of Northern Sulawesi in Indonesia is about as far off the map as one can get. I stayed in an old bungalow on a deserted beach about a 2 hour drive and one hour walk from civilization. Not the best place to get food poisoning, but it happened.

Continue reading Blogger Justin Delaney

Blogger Justin Delaney originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gadlinggadling bloggerGadlingBloggerJustin DelaneyJustinDelaneynew bloggerNewBloggerTue, 15 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World's highest restaurant opens in Dubai]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/26/worlds-highest-restaurant-opens-in-dubai/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/26/worlds-highest-restaurant-opens-in-dubai/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/26/worlds-highest-restaurant-opens-in-dubai/#commentsFiled under: ,

Highest RestaurantWant to get high? It won't be illegal if you do it at Burj Khalifa's At.mosphere, which surpasses Toronto's 360 Restaurant as the world's highest restaurant. The downtown Dubai restaurant strands at 1,350 feet high (that's level 123, for those who care).

The restaurant seats 210 guests and offers both a dining and bar area. Both emphasize fresh products and healthy, simple cooking - all food is availalbe grilled, broiled or baked.

Adorned in mahogany walls and ceilings, Adam Tihany furnishings, and floors of cafe au lait limestone and hand-tufted carpet, At.mosphere reflects Dubai's position as a luxury destination in the Middle East.

Want to know more? Check out what our friends over at Luxist have to say.

World's highest restaurant opens in Dubai originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 26 Jan 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360 Restaurantat.mosphereburj khalifadubaitorontoWed, 26 Jan 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Daily Pampering: Dubai Shopping Festival hotel packages]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/11/dubai-shopping-festival-hotel-packages/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/11/dubai-shopping-festival-hotel-packages/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/11/dubai-shopping-festival-hotel-packages/#commentsFiled under: , ,

dubaiYou read the title right, fashionistas: There's an entire festival devoted to shopping that takes place in Dubai, and Emirates Airlines has partnered with hotels and luxury retailers to offer travelers a few good discounts and a place to drop their bags after a long day of shopping.

The 15th annual Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) begins on Jan. 20 and runs until Feb. 20 in the glamorous city of Dubai. Emirates airline has teamed up with beach and city hotels to offer a free night's stay during the Festival to visitors who book a four-night stay. The pampering continues with tax-free shopping, as well as discounts of up to 50 percent on a wide variety of items during the shopping festival.

Packages to the festival can be purchased through local travel agents or an Emirates sales office, and include a choice of hotels, airport transfers and buffet breakfast. In addition, Emirates is currently offering a Companion Fare offer: any passenger purchasing a flight to Dubai between Jan. 1-31 will get a free second ticket, excluding taxes. This Companion Fare offer is valid in all three classes - first, business and economy - with travel from Jan. 16-31.

We can't put a price on this pampering because of the various hotel options, but we can tell you the shopping package includes accommodation for four-nights for the price of three, airport assistance on arrival at Dubai International Airport, Arabian Adventures welcome pack, airport transfers to and from the hotel by private car, breakfast daily and all taxes and service charges.

Continue reading Daily Pampering: Dubai Shopping Festival hotel packages

Daily Pampering: Dubai Shopping Festival hotel packages originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dailypamperingdubaiemiratesEmirates AirlinesEmiratesAirlinesLuxuryTravelshoppingTue, 11 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ritz-Carlton ready to open first new hotel of 2011: Dubai International Financial Centre]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/04/ritz-carlton-dubai-international-financial-centre/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/04/ritz-carlton-dubai-international-financial-centre/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/04/ritz-carlton-dubai-international-financial-centre/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

ritz carlton

The Ritz-Carlton hotel group is gearing up for an exciting 2011. Amid the flurry of anticipation for the opening of the tallest hotel in the world in Hong Kong, the hotel group is also preparing for its first opening of the year, The Ritz -Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), slated to welcome guests on Jan. 12, 2011.

The 341-room hotel, with 124 executive residences, will be the second Ritz-Carlton in Dubai and the sixth property in the region.

Located in Dubai's bustling financial district, The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC graces the skyline wrapped in a French limestone façade and shades of art deco elements. Standing 14 storeys high, the hotel will be a grand fixture among the city's towering skyscrapers.

Continue reading Ritz-Carlton ready to open first new hotel of 2011: Dubai International Financial Centre

Ritz-Carlton ready to open first new hotel of 2011: Dubai International Financial Centre originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dubaiLuxuryHotelsLuxuryTravelritz carltonritz-carltonRitzCarltonTue, 04 Jan 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Abu Dhabi Emirates Palace hotel regrets $11 million Christmas tree]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/19/emirates-palace-11-million-christmas-tree/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/19/emirates-palace-11-million-christmas-tree/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/19/emirates-palace-11-million-christmas-tree/#commentsFiled under: ,



Well - that was quick. Just a couple of days after we reported on its excessive $11 million Christmas tree, the Emirates Palace hotel in Abu Dhabi has confirmed that it may have gone a little overboard in decorating the (fake) evergreen.

The $11,000 tree had been filled with almost every piece of valuable jewelry the in-house jeweler could find - including diamond earrings, necklaces and pearls. After all the attention the tree got, the hotel manager admitted he "regretted overloading the tradition".

Of course, one thing not really pointed out in all the attention was that the "decorations" would all be recovered after the holiday season, so despite their insane price tag, the tree itself was not going to cost $11 million.

Still, while the world is in the middle of its first signs of economic recovery, a tree with this kind of excess sends a rather disturbing message. Then again, this is the same hotel where you can buy gold bars from a vending machine and waste $1 million on a week-long stay.

[Photo: AP]

Abu Dhabi Emirates Palace hotel regrets $11 million Christmas tree originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 19 Dec 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abu dhabiAbuDhabiEmirates PalaceEmiratesPalaceSun, 19 Dec 2010 16:30:00 EST