Dubai & Arabia

116 Pages·2015·12.51 MB·English

GM1617-DUB001 Cover_F_Layout 1 29/10/2015 17:46 Page 1
There is plenty of destination inspiration in our other brochures... January 16 – March 17
Dubai &
Florida Far East
Arabia
Australia,
New Zealand
& South Pacific
D
u
b
a
USA i &
A
ra
b
ia
©Disney
G
o
ld
Canada Indian Ocean M
e
d
a
l
Dubai & Arabia Las Vegas
South
Africa
Caribbean & Mexico
Part of the Gold Medal Travel Group
...see your local travel agent for our full range of destinations The Trident Centre
Port Way
Ribble Docklands
Preston
PR2 2QG
J
a
n
u
a
ry
16
- M
TRAVEL AGENT INFORMATIONTo check availability, book or for more a
information call the expert travel team at Gold Medal 0800 014 7777 rc
h
17
GM1617-DUB002-003 Intro_Layout 1 23/10/2015 16:40 Page 2
Dubai skyline
2
GM1617-DUB002-003 Intro_Layout 1 23/10/2015 16:40 Page 3
Live life
in colour...
The world is waiting; full of sights,
sounds, colour and life.
Travel with us to a truly remarkable
and magical part of the world,
full of dramatic contrasts. From
thriving cities and cultural
explorations, to vast open plains
and spectacular beaches.
The world is yours to discover,
and the journey starts here.
3
GM1617-DUB004 Welcome_Layout 1 23/10/2015 16:41 Page 4
Welcome...
to Dubai
& Arabia
We know the world... Capture the essence of Arabia To help you identify the right hotel or
At Gold Medal we’ve been supplying Dubai offers a magical blend of ancient resort, we’ve included a few handy
scheduled flights, hotels, car hire, tours and and modern, of tradition and contemporary, pointers, look out for;
excursions for over 40 years. We like to of city sights and beachfront relaxation. l Complimentary WiFi
think we have learned something in that Nowhere else is quite like it. Visit Dubai and
Hotels or resorts offering complimentary WiFi
time, and we use this knowledge to you’ll discover man-made islands and futuristic
anywhere on its grounds*, will carry this icon.
carefully select the best range to offer buildings, along with luxury, opulence and
*this could be in public areas only, and is subject to availability
you in each of our destinations. great service at every turn. Dubai caters for all
travellers whether you are visiting as a couple, l Family friendly
And love to travel… as a family or on business. If children are more than just welcome,
Dubai and Arabia have always been firm in fact there are facilities specifically for
favourites of Gold Medal and our love for Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab children e.g. kids’ club, children’s pool,
the destinations has grown alongside the Emirates, presents culture and charm, and children’s play area and children’s dining
ever-expanding destinations themselves. although a very modern location, its history options, you’ll see this icon on the page.
Our Dubai & Arabia Destination Experts are is evident everywhere. Fujairah and Ras l Adult only
frequent visitors. Nothing will prepare you Al Khaimah offer a more traditional Arabian
For grown up hotels and resorts, look out
for what awaits; the larger-than-life sights, experience, both located just under an hour
for this icon – it means all guests will be
sounds and sensations of Dubai are drive from Dubai; with the beautiful mountain
aged 16 or over.
incredible. Pair this with the developing backdrop and golden beaches, this is an
vibrancy of Abu Dhabi, where you’ll find area growing in popularity and it’s easy to
Yas Island and Saadiyat Island both boasting see why. Oman and capital Muscat remain
fabulous hotels, shopping, golf courses and relativity undiscovered, making an ideal
other attractions. For a more authentic choice for the explorer and those looking for
experience, head out to Fujairah, Ras Al a quieter, more authentic break.
Khaimah and Oman – equally beautiful, but
life here is paced completely differently.
When to travel
Most of this part of the world experiences sunshine all year round, with
temperatures averaging around 30°C. July and August are typically the hottest
months with temperatures reaching over 40°C and it can be much hotter in the
desert. Cooler and more pleasant conditions are generally found between
October and March and there is very little rainfall, if any at all, year round.
Also worth noting that the holy month of Ramadan is expected to fall 07 Jun -
07 Jul 16. For full climate information, please see page 113.
Great value guaranteed Complete peace of mind Your holiday, your way
Getting a good deal doesn’t mean When your travel agent books your trip From simple breaks to complex
choosing the cheapest option – high with Gold Medal you can be assured multi-centre itineraries our knowledge
standards, quality and value come hand that you are fully protected. All the and experience means we can create
in hand when your travel agent books flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure your holiday, your way. We specialise
your trip with Gold Medal. With access are financially protected by the ATOL in tailor-made holidays which combine
to thousands of fares and routes from scheme, and when you pay for your scheduled flights, hotels, car hire, tours
over 135 airlines, and special rates at holiday you will be issued with an ATOL and excursions – take your pick, and,
over 40,000 hotels around the world, we certificate. Please check to ensure that working with your travel agent we take
work hard so you can enjoy a holiday to all elements of your holiday (flights, care of the rest.
remember at a price you’ll love. hotels and other services) are listed.
Our ATOL number is 2916. Please see our booking
conditions for further information or for more information
about financial protection and the ATOL certificate,
visit: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLcertificate
44
GM1617-DUB005 Welcome_Layout 1 23/10/2015 16:42 Page 5
Contents
Get to know Dubai & Arabia 6-7
Airline options 8-9
Dubai & Arabia 10 onwards
Multi-centre holidays 12-13
Stay & cruise 14-15
Ras Al Khaimah Villas & apartments 16-17
Dubai
Fujairah Dubai 18-73
Abu Dhabi
Musandam Muscat The Palm Jumeirah 24-33
Beach 34-53
Salalah
U.A.E The Walk & Marina 54-59
City & Downtown 60-67
Deira, Creek & Festival City 68-72
Desert 73
Abu Dhabi 74-91
Beach 76-84
Desert 85
Yas Island 86-89
Saadiyat Island 90-91
Ras Al Khaimah & Fujairah 92-101
Ras Al Khaimah 94-100
Fujairah 101
Oman 102-111
Muscat 104-110
Musandam Peninsula 110
Al Hajar Mountains 111
Salalah 111
Information
Essential information 112-113
Assistance for reduced Oh, and we’re Climate chart 113
mobility travellers award-winning Booking conditions 114-115
We have a dedicated team of 2015 Best Consolidator
knowledgeable and experienced Globe Travel Awards
staff who can help plan a trip for Tour Operator of the Year
those customers with reduced mobility. TTG Travel Awards
This includes advice on suitable 2014 Best Consolidator
accommodation, accessible transfers Globe Travel Awards
and making special requests to an 2013 Best Consolidator
airline. Please ask your travel agent Globe Travel Awards
for more details. 2013 Best Long-Haul Tour Operator
Globe Travel Awards
2012 Best Consolidator
Globe Travel Awards
5
GM1617-DUB006-007 Overview_Layout 1 26/10/2015 10:29 Page 6
a
bi
a
r
A
&
ai
b
u
D
A destination of distinction
You want a mix of contemporary architecture and
ancient ruins? Breathtaking deserts and state-of-the-art
hotels? World-class mall shopping and bustling
markets? Then look no further than Dubai and the
Arabia region for the trip of a lifetime. If it’s contrast
and colour you’re seeking, then dip your toe in the
warm, clear waters surrounding Dubai and enjoy a
destination where worlds and cultures collide.
Do Dubai Savour the flavour
In central Dubai, you can enjoy the peace and Opt for some delicious street food, strong coffee and sweet cakes and pastries
serenity of a religious temple before plunging into the and enjoy the melting pot which is Dubai and Arabia’s cuisine. With influences
teeming streets of downtown where restaurants, bars from both east and west and catering well for vegetarians, vegans and meat
and nightclubs entertain late into the night. eaters alike, there’s something to tempt every type of taste bud.
Experience an early morning sunrise over the golden Glorious beaches and stunningly clear seas offer visitors the perfect opportunity
desert and embrace the Middle Eastern culture, with to sit back and relax as they watch the world go by. But for those with more of
people known for their pride and hospitality. an adventurous spirit, they can try their hand at watersports, rally driving,
dune-buggying, snorkelling, skiing and even swimming with sharks.
Marine life
The Dubai jet set
It claims to be the world’s largest man-made marina – and who are we to argue?
Just when you thought you’d seen it all, The Dubai
With its expansive coastline, its canals running inland, Dubai’s marina plays host to
Fountain comes along to blow all of your previous
hotels and restaurants which sit alongside residential apartments and shopping malls.
experiences clean out of the water. Set on the 30-
Dubai Marina is like a city in itself; it’s classy and cosmopolitan, chic and charming
acre Burj Khalifa Lake, the fountain shoots water
and is abundant with things to see and do.
l Stroll down ‘The Walk’ and enjoy the cafés and shops along the way jets as high as 150 metres, in time to classical and
l Take in a movie at the 14-screen cinema contemporary musical scores of both local and
l Take to the slopes – really! At SkiDubai in Mall of the Emirates you can indulge international origin. The combination of water,
music and lights creates a spectacular display
your inner snow-bunny or partake in a little après ski in the middle of the desert
l Don your designer shades and people-watch along the chic promenade and which casts a lasting impression.
café central
Discover Deira Shop 'til you drop
To the east of Dubai Creek is Deira, With 520 fashion, electronics, interiors
a more subtle take on the area’s normal and lifestyle stores, more than 80 places
pace of life. For smaller, independent to eat and drink and even an indoor ski
shops and merchants engaged in slope, it has to be said that Mall of the
traditional business deals, head to Deira, Emirates really does have it all. There are
where some of the oldest trading areas are cinemas, hotels and Magic Planet, the
located. People-watching is the local largest indoor family entertainment centre
pastime here and seeing the colourful in Dubai, making this a popular venue for
clash of cultures makes a lasting impression young and old alike. The world-famous
on all who come here. Dubai Mall is home to not only hundreds
Shrug off the stresses of modern life by of shops and restaurants but also to
ambling through the twisting streets of SEGA Republic, an indoor theme park.
Deira’s souks, soaking up the charming The 76,000 sq ft park has five themed
sights and smells of the streets. Coffee zones featuring nine attractions and more
shops are in abundance and you can than 200 games, from cutting-edge
sample some of the local delicacies at one motion simulators to virtual experiences.
of the many cafes on offer in this area.
6
GM1617-DUB006-007 Overview_Layout 1 26/10/2015 10:30 Page 7
D
Life’s a beach u
b
Overlooked by the magnificent ‘Jumeirah a
Beach Hotel’, Jumeirah Beach is both i &
popular and iconic in Dubai’s modern A
history. Gentle lapping waves, crystal ra
b
clear water and white sandy beaches ia
make it a desirable stop-off for visitors to
the area. For an alternative view, take a
trip to the Jumeirah Beach Park, with its
lush green grass-lined stretch of public
space. Its beach area is life-guarded and
there are barbecues, picnic tables,
pleasant walkways and food kiosks.
It’s all about Abu Dhabi Saadiyat Island
Abu Dhabi has more than 350km of Just a short drive from downtown Abu
beautiful coastal sand, so there’s plenty to Dhabi is the magnificent Saadiyat Island.
ensure visitors can enjoy a stretch of Created to reflect the very best of
secluded beach all to themselves. The traditional and contemporary culture, the
rolling sand dunes of Abu Dhabi’s deserts, island is in itself a feat of creativity, Al Ain
bathed in the blazing daytime sun or heady imagination and design. Impressive For a taste of the ‘real’ Abu Dhabi, be sure to
evening sunset are a sight to behold. architecture stands proudly on the horizon visit the ancient city of Al Ain. Here there are
Rugged and romantic, they house some of and the island makes no excuses for its bustling markets, traditional forts and
the area’s best hotels where traditional opulent buildings, striking vistas and world- fascinating museums which offer a glimpse into
meets contemporary and a perfectly class facilities. the area’s rich history. Calm, serene and
balanced blend of old and new emerges. green, Al Ain is the perfect antidote to a city
break in bustling Abu Dhabi.
Say ‘yes’ to Yas Island
Fasten your seatbelt, Yas Island is all
about speed, thrills and sensory
overload! Entertainment is the order of
the day and whether it’s Formula 1TM,
high impact rollercoasters, some of the Ferrari World Join the club
region’s best shopping destinations or Ferrari World theme park, which is based Yas Island offers world-class golfing facilities
fine cuisine from around the world, this on the famous luxury car, features the and the most immaculately groomed golf
jam-packed island just off Abu Dhabi’s world’s fastest roller coaster and dozens of courses ever seen. From courses that overlook
coast is a must-see for anyone travelling other adrenalin-pumping attractions, rides, the sea or lush green gardens, Yas Island
in the area. slides and shows. golfing is some of the best in the world.
Step back in time Hot springs
To the east of the UAE lies Fujairah on the & icelands
Gulf of Oman coastline. It’s emerging as a
The warm mineral
popular place for travellers to stretch their
waters of Khatt Village
legs away from the hustle and bustle of Abu
at Ras Al Khaimah are
Dhabi and has a ‘yesteryear’ feeling to it,
renowned for their
which often appeals to explorers.
healing qualities and
Staggering mountainsides swoop down to
are a popular
golden beaches in Fujairah, leading to the
destination for visitors
clear blue sea which is perfect for a spot of Fujairah Fort and local people alike.
snorkelling. This hidden jewel in the UAE
Used as a home, a prison and a look-out post, the Fujairah In total contrast, you can
offers the best of both worlds; tranquil
Fort has had a fascinating past and is well worth a visit to take time to chill out at
escapes in a rugged setting, abundant with
turn a page in the region’s history book. Explore the fort the Iceland Waterpark,
opportunities to both explore and relax,
and take in the beautiful views from the observation deck as Ras Al Khaimah’s very
alongside top hotels offering excellent
the structure itself turns from subtle brown, through vibrant own frosty splash and
service, food and facilities.
orange to dramatic red as the sun moves in the sky. slide fun zone.
Over to Oman
Oman remains relatively undiscovered,
undeveloped and under the radar, making
it perfect for the curious traveller who wants
to explore a new territory. It has opened its
arms to welcome in the world and with that
gesture come beautiful hotels, excellent
service and hospitality. Despite its relative
remoteness, Oman is famed for its friendly
people and visitors here are welcome to
share in the beauty and solitude of this
stunning region of the Middle East.
Time seems to stand still in Muscat, the
capital city, which is nestled in a basin
between hills and the sea. It’s elegant and
quite uniform, with very few tall buildings,
testament to the desire to keep Muscat
relatively traditional and undeveloped.
7
GM1617-DUB008-009 Airlines_Layout 1 23/10/2015 16:45 Page 8
s
e
n
rli
Ai
a
bi
a
r
A
&
ai
b
u
D
Airline options: Start as you mean to go on. Begin your holiday
by flying with the world’s leading airlines and
enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
A flying start
Business Class
Emirates l Complimentary Chauffeur-drive Service in
Emirates flies17 times daily to Dubai from a
over 70 destinations*
choice of six UK airports, offering l Generous 40kg baggage allowance
convenient onward connections to over l Priority check-in and baggage handling
140 destinations. Onboard, passengers l Exclusive Emirates Lounges in over 35
can enjoy world-class service, regionally
destinations including Heathrow, Gatwick,
inspired gourmet cuisine and up to 2,000
Manchester and Birmingham
channels of the latest award-winning l Airport Lounge access in over 60 First Class Cocktail Bar
entertainment. destination worldwide, including Newcastle l Airport Lounge access in over 60
and Glasgow destination worldwide, including Newcastle
Economy Class l Lie-flat seats with massage function and Glasgow
l Generous 30kg baggage allowance l Multi-course gourmet cuisine served with l Flat-bed Private Suites with sliding doors for
l Complimentary seat selection at the time of fine wines total privacy
booking l Emirates A380 Onboard Lounge access l Personal in-seat mini bar
l Up to 2,000 channels of entertainment l Exclusive Shower Spas and Onboard
on-demand from every seat First Class Lounge access on the Emirates A380
l Ergonomically designed seats with adjustable l Complimentary Chauffeur-drive Service in l Gourmet on-demand dining served with a
headrests and up to 34-inch seat pitch over 70 destinations* selection of fine wines
l Multi-course gourmet cuisine served with a l Generous 50kg baggage allowance *Chauffeur-drive mileage radius may apply.
selection of complimentary beverages l Priority check-in and baggage handling
l Phone, SMS and email connectivity from every l Exclusive Emirates Lounges in over 35
seat plus WiFi onboard the Emirates A380 destinations including Heathrow, Gatwick,
Manchester and Birmingham
First Apartment
Etihad Airways
Etihad revolutionises First Class with the First
Etihad continues to reimagine flying. Its
Apartment. More than a seat, it is a living
pioneering spirit and traditions of
space for the discerning traveller, spacious
hospitality, drawn from its home Abu Dhabi,
enough to walk around in. The First Apartment
have been harnessed to create
is upholstered with the finest Poltrona Frau
contemporary living spaces in the air and
leather and features a wide armchair, and an
deliver unparalleled comfort and service.
ottoman. The ottoman transitions into an 81-inch
long bed.
Economy Smart Seat
Our Economy Smart Seat is the ultimate in The Residence
clever design, with a unique ‘fixed wing’ Welcome to the world’s most exclusive cabin in
headrest that will make the journey even more the sky, where a truly unique and bespoke
comfortable. The ergonomically designed seat experience is delivered with complete
also has adjustable lumbar support. discretion and limitless hospitality. With a living
room, separate bedroom and ensuite
Business Studio bathroom, The Residence by Etihad is the only
The Business Studios are the embodiment of three-room suite in the sky.
style, simplicity and functionality. The seat First Apartment
converts into a comfortable fully-flat bed of up Only one airline could have created this
to 79-inches. Relax on all ultra-long haul flights extraordinary travel experience. #Reimagined
on special mattresses for bedtime comfort in
complimentary loungewear.
8
GM1617-DUB008-009 Airlines_Layout 1 23/10/2015 16:45 Page 9
British Airways World Traveller l The Club World seats give you your own A
l When you fly World Traveller, you can space and time to do what you want, when ir
British Airways is the UK's largest relax in the knowledge that everything will you want. Bigger, wider and more lin
international scheduled airline, flying to e
be taken care of, allowing you to simply sit comfortable than ever, you can guarantee s
over 550 destinations at convenient times, back and enjoy what’s on offer complete comfort in any position D
to the best located airports. Whether l Your ergonomically designed seat comes l The very best in local and international ub
cBuristitsohm Aeirrsw aaryes inta tkhees apirri doer oinn pthroev gidrionugn ad, wli thC loummpblaimr esunptaproy rbt,a hre saedrvreicset athnrdo uregchloinuet cwuinisein ece isll asrerved, along with a dedicated ai &
full service experience. your flight as well as tasty meals l But if you are still peckish you are free to A
r
l A USB port and an RCA port allow you help yourself to healthy snacks and tasty ab
to use personal electronic devices with the treats from the Club Kitchen ia
in-flight entertainment system *Available at selected airports.
World Traveller Plus Online Check-in and Check-in kiosks
l For an affordable premium, enjoy the l Start your journey from the comfort of your
luxury of more personal space than own home, office or hotel by checking in
World Traveller with an additional seven online from 24 hours before your flight departs
inches legroom and a wider seat and minimise the queues at the airport
l Make yourself comfortable with l You can select your preferred seat and
adjustable head, foot and legrest, helping print your boarding pass, all on your home PC
you arrive in good shape at your destination l If you don’t have online access you can
l Relax and take advantage of the quieter, still save time by using a Check-in kiosk* at
stress-free surroundings of the smaller and more the airport, giving you the same seating and
private cabin with a maximum of six rows boarding pass options as Online Check-in
World Traveller l Enjoy a complimentary three-course l Afterwards, maximise your free time by
meal with a choice of entrée from the leaving your baggage at a Bag Drop**,
Club World menu allowing you to shop, dine or relax as you
l Two USB ports and an RCA port allow choose before boarding your flight
you to use personal electronic devices with l Check-in from 24 hours up to one hour
the in-flight entertainment system before departure
* Available on selected routes. ** Available at selected airports.
Club World
l Choosing Club World means travelling in
comfort and freedom. Dedicated departure
Club World
lounges and Elemis Travel Spa* are
designed to give you choice before your
flight, whether you wish to relax, dine or be
pampered
KLM Economy
KLM
l Check in whenever and however suits you
Passengers can begin their journey at one
best: online, with your mobile phone, at a
of KLM’s 16 regional airports and transfer
self-service machine or at the desk
at the award-winning Amsterdam Airport l Drop off your baggage at a self-service
Schiphol, its user-friendly and efficient hub.
or regular drop-off point, and off you go!
All facilities, including Schiphol Holland l Ergonomically designed seat with a
Boulevard and its vast duty-free shopping
31 inch seat pitch
area, are located under a single roof to l Complimentary meals with a choice of
make the transfer an enjoyable experience.
two hot dishes
l Complimentary non-alcoholic and
alcoholic beverages. Throughout the entire
flight, with an offer of something to drink
once every hour
l Personal interactive screen, offering over
1,000 hours of interactive entertainment
KLM Economy Comfort
l Up to 10cm more legroom and up to
double the recline compared to Economy
l Faster disembarkation thanks to dedicated l Individual entertainment system with
seating zone at the front of the Economy cabin 17 inch screens
l Seasonal menus prepared by top Dutch
KLM World Business Class chefs and accompanied by wines selected
l Check in, drop off your baggage, pass by our expert sommelier
Upper Deck through security checks and customs, board l Since the 1950s, KLM have presented
your flight and pick up your bags from the every World Business Class passenger with
baggage belt – all with priority a unique gift: a Delft Blue miniature
l Greater comfort when sleeping thanks traditional Dutch house, filled with Dutch gin,
to a seat that reclines into a fully flat bed, also known as genever
207cm in length All information correct as of September 2014.
l Seats in a privacy canopy with in-seat Subject to change without notice.
power and more storage
l Extra legroom and fewer seats in the
cabin for more personal space
Economy l Warm, ‘feel-at-home’ atmosphere on
board
9
GM1617-DUB010-011 Dubai & Arabia HYBRID_Layout 1 23/10/2015 16:46 Page 10
Dubai desert
Dubai Pages 18-73 Abu Dhabi Pages 74-91 Ras Al Khaimah Pages 92-100
Known as the Pearl of the Arabian Gulf, The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Ras Al Khaimah is set between the Hajar
Dubai contrasts the old with the new, the Abu Dhabi is a large, cosmopolitan city Mountains on the east and the Arabian
modern with the traditional. Even its with modern architecture, malls and Gulf on the west. It’s a destination
landscapes are contrasting, from the gleaming white mosques, surrounded by offering amazing landscapes from
azure waters of the Arabian Gulf to rolling parks and lush green gardens. Diverse rugged mountain scenery and sandy
desert sand dunes. With some of the activities range from shopping, deserts to glorious beaches.
world’s most luxurious hotels and year- sightseeing and dining to sailing, diving,
round sunshine, this is an ideal fishing, golf and even camel racing!
destination for couples and families.
10