Top 10 places to visit on your next trip to Dubai

If you see photos of Dubai taken from space, it looks like a piece of glittering jewellery in the dark. This City of Future, in the United Arab Emirates is fast becoming an exporter of science and technology to the world. Even though it may seem like all malls and air-conditioning, this is a desert city that has a stirring influx of cultural institutions, galleries as well as shopping complexes that are aimed at attracting a new generation of visitors. This Arab city is filled with endless adventure and fun activities, making it the ideal location for experiencing fun, thrill, and entertainment on your holidays.

If you are still thinking about applying for a Dubai visa, check out the following points that will give you all the reasons to satisfy your wanderlust in Dubai.

Dubai Frame

This stunning architecture portrays a metaphorical connection between the old and new city. The Dubai frame is said to be the largest picture frame in the world, a giant structure of a gold frame standing 500 feet tall with striking glass lifts that take tourists to the top. Tourists are allowed to walk on the clear glass walkway across the entire 313-foot width.

Burj Khalifa

One of the most renowned skyscrapers, Burj Khalifa (829.8m) is the tallest building in the world. It is said that a trip to Dubai is incomplete without visiting this marvel of architecture. At the heart of the city, this tallest freestanding structure in the world shouldn't be missed by any chance. The interesting part is you can go to the top observation deck on the 124^th floor to enjoy the aerial view of the city from such a height.

Global Village

This is a theme park that can not only entertain a little kid, but also a man in his sixties. This massive park is very popular among people and is considered the ideal destination for a family day out. Filled with concerts, dining, attractions, and rides around the world, it’s the perfect place to spend a great time with your friends and family members.

XLine Dubai Marina

Have you heard of the XLine Dubai? Get the chance to fly belly-down across skyscrapers, highways, and swimming pools across the city of Dubai with XLine Dubai. This is one of the steepest, longest, and fastest urban zip lines in the world. If you are an adventure seeker, book the best Dubai packages that include this thrilling ride that you will remember forever.

Ski Dubai

Another place to add to your bucket list is Ski Dubai. It's the largest indoor ski slope in the world that offers a unique experience even to the professionals in this field.

Dubai Aquarium

If you're visiting Dubai, make sure you're not missing out on the great Dubai Aquarium. With 140 colourful fish and other sea species, there are high chances that you will never see such a great aquarium like this again. Holding 10 million litres of water, it also has one of the largest collections of sand sharks in the world.

Burj Al-Arab



Even though its height is much lower than the Burj Khalifa, the Burj Al-Arab is the tallest hotel in the world at a height of 321 metres. Situated in its dedicated island, this architectural marvel reflects the traditional dhow in full sail. Dhow is a kind of merchant ship operating around the emirate for centuries now. At nightfall, it becomes a kaleidoscope of colours – a must-watch for someone visiting Dubai for the first time.

Deira



There is no dearth of interesting places to visit when you’re in Dubai. That being said, not visiting Deira will be a huge miss when you are travelling to this Arab city. It's an area of twisting roads as well as home to a melee of people and cultures. Located on the northern side of the city, Deira is known for its various points of interest, a reason why tourists throng the streets of this place all the time.

The Dubai Fountain



The Dubai fountain falls on the list of the top ten places to visit in Dubai because it's one of its kind when its illuminated jet moves in time based on renowned musical pieces. Whether you are travelling with family or alone, on a business or pleasure trip, it's a must-see place to see when you're in the city.

Dubai Creek



A significant part of Dubai that holds both the ancient and modern culture together, Dubai Creek is the place that separates the city from Deira. If you want to know how it all began before Dubai was so popular in the world, visiting this place should be on your list of the best places to go in Dubai.

On top of these ten best places to visit in Dubai, there are also various adventures that you would love to experience like a helicopter ride, skydiving, camel safari, and so on. So book your flight tickets fast and stay prepared to experience the adventure of a lifetime at the City Of Gold.

Note: The photographs in this article have been borrowed from wikipedia.org under the Creative Commons license. Each photograph has been linked to its host page on wikipedia.org.

What is the PAR Registry for Indians?

Indian nationals wishing to enter Hong-Kong for a stay of up to 14 days do not require entry Visas. Instead, one is required to have a Pre-arrival registration (PAR) notification slip for which they can apply online. This service is free of charge.

The Hong Kong pre arrival registration for Indians came into effect on the 23rd of January 2017 in accordance with a directive announced by the Hong Kong Immigration Department on December 12^th 2016. It was introduced with the aim of saving travellers’ time at the border.

If one wishes to stay for a duration that exceeds 14 days, they must apply for a HKSAR Visa. HKSAR refers to Hong Kong Special Administrative Region which is the official name for the city of Hong Kong.

Outlined below is information regarding the Pre-arrival registration (PAR); Requirements, Exemptions, Validity and General Procedures.

Requirements for Pre-arrival registration for Indian Nationals

Indians must meet the following two conditions to register for a PAR.

1. Have an Indian passport that is valid for at least 6 months.

2. Plan to stay for a period not exceeding 14 days.

However, Indian nationals who have valid permission to reside, work or study in Hong Kong need not apply for the PAR. The same applies to those with the right of abode or right to land in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

Exemptions from Pre-arrival registration for Indians



In addition to those mentioned above, the following nationals can enter the HKSAR without having met the PAR requirement; subject to normal immigration requirements being met.

1. Those holding a valid Indian diplomatic or official passport

2. Those holding a United Nations Laissez Passer and are going to; or passing through Hong Kong for official United Nations business

3. Those holding a HKSAR Travel Pass

4. Those enrolled for the e-Channel service/Automated Passenger Clearance System. (However, if the validity of the passport linked to the e-Channel service lapses or becomes invalid, the e-Channel service becomes immediately invalid)

5. Those holding a valid entry Visa for the HKSAR

6. Operating aircrew or sea crew who are on board vessels, and Contract Seaman.

7. Those simply transiting through Hong Kong and who must therefore remain within the bounds of the International Transit Area of the airport.

How long does it take to fill the online Pre-Arrival Registration

It can be completed in just a couple of minutes upon which a result will be provided instantly. Applicants will be required to provide personal and passport information in order to complete the form.

If successful, an option to “View/Print Registration Notification Slip” will be provided.

Print the provided notification slip on a sheet of blank A4 paper then check that the information therein tallies with what is on your Indian passport before signing the notification slip on the allotted space.

In case the applicant is under the age of 16, a parent or legal guardian must check that the information in the notification slip is correct and sign it.

How long is a PAR valid for?

A pre-arrival registration is valid for 6 months from the date of approval. During this period, an Indian national can make multiple visits to Hong Kong so long as they have both their PAR notification slip and the passport linked to that slip.

Only when the validity of the PAR slip lapses will you be allowed to apply for another.

A Word of Caution

Note that the information provided in the application must be accurate and true. Any inaccuracies or inconsistencies between your passport and PAR notification slip will deem your pre-arrival registration invalid and entry into Hong Kong or a vessel bound for Hong Kong will be denied.

Worse off, should the information provided be found to be intentionally false or misleading, the offender will be liable for prosecution under the Laws of Hong Kong.

General Guidelines



Even though the application for a pre-arrival is instant, government of Hong Kong advises Indian travellers to apply up to 4-6 weeks in advance.

Before you begin your travel, remember to carry the same valid Indian passport you used to register for the PAR. The two are now electronically linked together such that using a different passport will lead to denial of entry. Both will be checked by transport officials and operators so be sure not to forget them.

Should your pre-arrival registration not be successful, apply to the Hong Kong Immigration Department for an entry Visa.

Once inside Hong Kong, ensure that you carry a printed copy of your PAR at all times once inside Hong.

Value of the PAR to travelling Indian nationals

The PAR has made travelling to Hong Kong on short stays much easier for Indians. No longer is it necessary to spend time applying for a Visa at an embassy or consulate. Furthermore, border crossing is made much smoother and less time consuming.

Fiji Island Hopping: 6 Best Places You Shouldn’t Miss

Boasting 333 islands, Fiji is an ideal destination for island hopping, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that you’ll remember for a long time. It’s filled with surprises and treasures hidden among islands and lagoons. While on a getaway here, you’ll get to make numerous stops on breathtaking islands and islets located throughout the Pacific Ocean. Every island is unique and worth exploring, but which islands should you visit if you have limited time?

Here's a guide to creating your own Fiji island-hopping trip. Check out the country’s most beautiful islands and find out why you should visit them:

1. Plantation Island Resort

The Plantation Island Resort is located on Malolo Lailai, about 20 kilometers from Viti Levu. It's easy to get there. One option is to schedule a trip on the Malolo Cat, a fancy catamaran service that runs between the island and Port Denarau. With plebeian modes, you can arrange a private water taxi. No need to worry about ferry schedules since you’ll find a lot. There is also a chopper service that flies between the airport and the island's airstrip. Checking in and getting set for a Fijian vacation is quick and easy.

Plantation Island Resort offers both hotel-style rooms and native Fijian bures. From the two ‘Bedroom Garden Bure’ to the ‘Beachfront Bure,’ the resort has something for everyone.

Moreover, the place features three pools, culture and artisan exhibitions, a golf course, a beauty salon, and a kids’ club. It even provides complimentary snorkelling, wind surfing, hand fishing, and kayaking. Diverse activities include scuba diving and village touring, which are available for a modest price.

2. Yasawa Islands

The Yasawa Islands are an archipelago of over 20 volcanic islands spread across 135 square kilometres. These islands are relatively uninhabited, so the extra time spent getting there will be well worth it.

You’ll enjoy unwinding at the beaches and seeing rugged volcanic peaks here. Climb to the top of Wayalailai or Kuata Island Resort to witness the sunrise.

From Nadi, Fiji's primary transit hub, the islands are easily accessible. You can reach them by seaplane from the hub. It's a short flight with great Pacific Ocean views. However, if you’re on a budget, a seaplane may not be an option. For an alternative option, you can head to Denarau Port.

3. Viti Levu

You won’t want to miss Viti Levu too while arranging your Fiji trip. The Nadi International Airport is the place where all international travelers arrive.

You can easily travel to the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, a vibrant botanic garden. You can also explore nearby mud baths and a national park in Nadi, which has a few sights and an amazing multicultural atmosphere. If you love going on adventures, Pacific Harbour is the place to be. You might want to try diving, whitewater rafting, or zip-lining through a rain forest.

The Fijian capital Suva is located on Viti Levu, but few tourists visit it despite the excellent museums and unspoiled countryside nearby.

4. Taveuni Island

Taveuni, Fiji's Garden Island, is rugged and immaculate. It’s 7 kilometers off the south east coast of Vanua Levu, 42 kilometers long, and 12 kilometers wide.

It’s a lovely tropical island full of tropical flowers. Much of the place is covered in beautiful rain forest, with the Bouma National Heritage Park protecting roughly 80% of it. Many indigenous species are found at Bouma National Heritage Park.

Moreover, Taveuni holds a rich natural history, especially its abundance in birds. It was never introduced to the mongoose, thus, many birds that have perished on the main islands still survive here.

Taveuni's proud warriors exude confidence, and they’re known as some of Fiji's friendliest people. Furthermore, the island is home to world-class diving, dozens if not hundreds of waterfalls, and a plethora of native plants and animals.

5. Yanggeta Island

Yanggeta is about halfway up the Yasawa Islands, near Nanuya Lailai. Because the island only offers one boutique luxury resort, it has fewer tourists than other islands.

Yanggeta, the island's largest village, has around 500 people. White-sand beaches and world-class coral reefs surround the island. One of the world's most spectacular coral reefs is just a 10-minute boat ride away. However, fishing is restricted off Yanggeta Island's east coast due to a marine reserve.

While here, you’ll discover a vibrant reef, a large fish population, and sea turtles. These wonderful sights are Yasawa Islands' best-kept secrets and are a must-see during an island-hopping tour in Fiji.

6. Kadavu Island



The pristine Kadavu Island is notable for the world's fourth largest barrier reef, the Great Astrolabe Reef. Located 100 kilometers south of Viti Levu, it’s one of the world's rare spots where you can marvel at breathtaking natural beauty on the land and in the sea. It has volcanic peaks and extensive tracts of natural rainforest covering its core. The Kadavu musk parrot, red dazzling parrot, and velvet dove live in these forests.

Kayaking adventures with a guide are a terrific opportunity to see the coastline and learn about Fijian culture.

Conclusion

Island hopping is a popular activity to do in Fiji, a destination that will captivate you with its natural wonders and hidden gems. Discovering all these beautiful islands will be an unforgettable and magical experience that will make you want to come back.