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VPG-DVD-233 - ZANZIBAR Zanzibar is a paradise-like island just off the Tanzanian coast. An island of spice and exotic aromas, sultans' palaces, harems, shining white beaches and fiery red sunsets. The ancient oriental city of Zanzibar derived its name from its many old stone buildings. Charming and mysterious they have witnessed much of the island's dramatic past and the tangled architecture of coral stone and shell lime serves as a fascinating backdrop to this colourful city that is strongly influenced by an Arabian way of life. In the north of the old town is one of the island's most beautiful buildings, the Ismali Dispensarium. It was built by a wealthy Indian businessman and was originally a hospital with an adjoining pharmacy. Today it contains a cultural centre. The house of the infamous Tippu Tip who was once Zanzibar's biggest slave trader, has not yet been restored. He was an extremely unpleasant man who sent his servants into the African bush to catch slaves who were later sold in Zanzibar Livingstone House was built in 1861. The famous missionary and explorer once resided there prior to going on his final expedition. He was frequently the guest of Tippu Tip who offered Dr. Livingstone various maps that were based upon his slave routes. A tropical paradise just off the African coast with the flair of the Orient, historic architecture and the colours of Africa. Zanzibar is most assuredly a legendary and fairy-tale island of global culture.
Vista Point ZANZIBAR...
Categories: Holiday Location and Places 
Added: 210 days ago
By: travel-video
Runtime: 1m24s
Views: 31  | Comments: 0
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VPG-DVD-178 - UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Situated on the Arabian Peninsula between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, the United Arab Emirates are like a fairy-tale from the One Thousand And One Nights. In just a few years the region has been catapulted from the Middle Ages into the 21st century and it is now an international financial centre within an ancient desert region. It contains seven sheikdoms that are united both politically and economically. Dubai is a wonderful holiday paradise with a romantic desert and a long history in which the past unites with the present. It is the second largest state in the United Arab Emirates and is situated on the north coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Fifteen kilometres from Dubai is the tiny Emirate of Sharjah where life continues according to age-old Arabian tradition. Tourism was once popular on this former pirate coast but the Saudi king subsequently prohibited the consumption of alcohol and thus the tourists stayed away. Abu Dhabi is the largest of the seven Emirates and means, Father Of The Gazelle, a name derived from an ancient legend. The seventy three thousand square kilometres of the Abu Dhabi region cover eighty-six per cent of the United Arab Emirates and in the 1960's the city had a population of five thousand that has now grown to almost a million. As the oil supplies gradually trickle away the sheiks are becoming increasingly cautious with their spending and the oil boom has now been followed by tourism in this fairy-tale holiday paradise that is full of desert romance.
Vista Point UNITED ARAB...
Categories: Holiday Location and Places 
Added: 210 days ago
By: travel-video
Runtime: 1m24s
Views: 23  | Comments: 0
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VPG-DVD-153 - TUNIS Tunis is the capital of Tunisia and this 'Paris' of North Africa is a metropolis with a long history. In the centre of the medina the domed roof of the souk encircles the Olive Tree Mosque the spiritual centre of the old town. The central market district dates back to the Hafsidic and Early Christian period. Here there's something for everyone, many of the goods being skilfully crafted under the watchful eye of prospective purchasers and while strolling through the markets it's like being part of an Arabian fairy-tale with all the magic of the One Thousand And One Nights. The tall, octagonal minaret of the Sidi Youssef Mosque is an example of Tunisia's earliest Syric building design and opposite is the Dar El Bey, former palace of the Turkish monarchs. Dar Ben Abdallah is a splendid palace that dates back to the 18th century and since 1975 has incorporated a folklore museum that is well worth a visit. A large cool courtyard is dominated by a central marble fountain and surrounded by both residential and official rooms. The lavish lifestyle of the 19th century is on full display in numerous rooms with precious furniture and crystal chandeliers as well as beautifully attired life-size dolls. Today Bardo is an elegant suburb of villas but in the 19th century the Turkish Beys built their palace district within it and the former harem today contains the majestic Bardo Museum. Tunis has all the wonderful atmosphere of this region's historic and colourful past.
Vista Point TUNIS Tunisia
Categories: Holiday Location and Places 
Added: 210 days ago
By: travel-video
Runtime: 1m21s
Views: 22  | Comments: 0
Rating: Not yet rated
VPG-DVD-166 - SULTANATE OF OMAN The Sultanate Of Oman is a fabulous land full of surprises, a splendid example of original Arabia that extends from the Straits Of Hormuz to the southern Dhofar. Up until the 1970's the third largest country in the Arabian Peninsula was only accessible by various caravan routes but today it boasts an abundance of mysterious desert towns and splendid palaces. The white city of Sohar is the historic harbour of the Islamic world and the 'Gateway To China'. It is still guarded by the white Sohar Fort, a mighty four-storey structure that dates back to the 14th century. The Hajar Mountains extend for almost six hundred kilometres from the Musandam Peninsula in the north to its eastern sections. They are also known as the Oman Mountains and divide the coast from the inland. Oman covers around three hundred thousand square kilometres and is one of the most sparsely settled countries in the world with only one and a half million inhabitants. Nizwa, the religious center of the Omans, has a moving past that manifests itself in the city's defensive fortress. Until the 12th century it was the capital of the Desert State of Oman. Even today this oasis city and trading metropolis has lost none of its former importance. Al-Hamra is the name of a three hundred year old oasis village that dates back to the reign of Imam Saif Bin Sultan. At the end of the 17th century members of the Abriyin Tribe settled here the descendants of whom still live in the Jebal-Akhdar Mountains. Al-Hamra means 'The Red One', an Arabic name that is also to be found in the word 'Alhambra', in Spain's Granada. The Sultanate Of Oman is a treasure trove of rarities. Its twelve thousand year old history is visible throughout the entire country and the beauty of the mysterious Arabian Peninsula is a truly captivating experience.
Vista Point SULTANATE OF...
Categories: Holiday Location and Places 
Added: 210 days ago
By: travel-video
Runtime: 1m19s
Views: 21  | Comments: 0
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VPG-DVD-194 - PALERMO Once known as the stronghold of the Mafia, Palermo, the capital of Sicily, has gradually improved its image and the joie de vivre of its inhabitants has turned it into one of the most lively cities in Italy. The monumental Palermo Cathedral is located on the edge of the Piazza Cathedrale, throughout the centuries a place for rendezvous, celebrations and justice. Following the city's conquest by the Saracens an ancient cathedral on this site was transformed into a Friday mosque and was later used for Christian ceremonies. When in 1072 the Normans conquered the island they were so captivated by this 'paradise on earth' that they were careful to preserve it. They admired its oriental splendour and Arabian-Norman architecture but when the kings of Aragon attained power the golden age of Palermo came to an end. The Castello Della Zisa is the largest building of Arabian design in Palermo and in former times it was a residence situated within a regal park that was used for the royal sport of hawking. In a mountain area close to Palermo is the picturesque town of Monreale, a townscape that for more than eight hundred years has been dominated by a single building: Monreale Cathedral was built due to a struggle for power between the Bishop Of Palermo and the Norman King, William The Second. The Sicilian metropolis of Palermo has been both feared and loved but it most assuredly remains 'a flower within a golden shell'.
Vista Point PALERMO Italy
Categories: Holiday Location and Places 
Added: 210 days ago
By: travel-video
Runtime: 1m28s
Views: 25  | Comments: 0
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VPG-DVD-124 - DUBAI Dubai is a fairy-tale holiday paradise with romantic desert scenery and a long history. Like an ancient kingdom from the 'One Thousand And One Nights' it's the second largest state in the United Arab Emirates located on the northern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. The trading of dates, goats, pearls and fish brought the city much prosperity and it gradually developed into the largest trading centre in the Near East. Maritime life has always played a significant role in the lives of those who live on the Arabian Gulf. With its triangular sails and a design that has remained unchanged for thousands of years, the dhow still sails these waters. Hundreds of them lie at anchor close to the old town on the banks of Dubai Creek. No other city in the United Arab Emirates possesses so many fascinating contrasts. But the past is gradually merging with the present and portrays a new and harmonious image. Dubai's impressive silhouette is in stark contrast to the desert sand and sparkling sea. The Deira district owes its prosperity to the various souks that were established there in the 19th century. At this time Dubai was already an important trading city with almost seven thousand inhabitants. The number of stalls in the souk rose to more than three hundred and a modest tax was imposed for the coffers of the local Sheikh. Amid the desert surroundings in front of the city gates is the Nad Al Sheba Camel Course where the intrepid creatures of the desert are trained during the winter months, the jockeys being young boys from Somalia and Pakistan. Dusty gravel roads lead into the Hajar Mountains, part of the splendid mountain landscape in the eastern section of the Emirates. Dubai's skyline has a new landmark, the Burj Al Arab, the only hotel in the world to have been awarded no less than seven stars! Built on a Man made island its design is that of a sail bent by the wind. Dubai: the height of luxury amid the desert sand - a glittering fairytale of the 21st century.
Vista Point DUBAI United...
Categories: Holiday Location and Places 
Added: 210 days ago
By: travel-video
Runtime: 1m21s
Views: 14  | Comments: 0
Rating: Not yet rated
TMT-DVD-120 - PALMYRA The ancient city of Palmyra is located in the Tadmur Oasis in the very heart of the Syrian savannah. Surrounded by arid desert it was once a proud and pulsating trading metropolis and everywhere can be seen relics of a bygone age that was full of myth and mystique. The influence of the legendary oasis city grew due to it having been regarded as a province of Rome. The Romans soon recognized the strategic importance of Palmyra as it was a vital centre of trade in the Near East. Palmyra's fine buildings such as its Amphitheatre were typical of its impressive architecture. Most of the Tetrapylon has been restored. It towers high above the ancient ruins and the Great Colonnade was once the main street of the historic metropolis. Beyond the city walls in the Valley Of Tombs the mystic atmosphere of the former caravan city becomes apparent. Several well preserved mausoleums give the surreal looking desert landscape a truly ghostly atmosphere. The architecture of these multi-floored burial places are unique in the world. The view from the Arabian fortress extends across the picturesque ruins of the city to the endless horizons of the desert. The oasis and ancient remains of Palmyra look almost surreal as if in a dream yet the old ruins and the mighty fortress really do exist in very tangible and resplendent form.
Terra Mystica PALMYRA Syria
Categories: Holiday Location and Places 
Added: 210 days ago
By: travel-video
Runtime: 1m31s
Views: 8  | Comments: 0
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OTT-DVD-104 - On Tour...  ARABIAN DESERT SAFARI Crossing The Sands Of TimeARABIAN DESERT SAFARI The oldest Arabian trading city, Dubai is a pulsating desert metropolis in the Middle East which is today synonymous with High Tech and Bedouins plus tall desert sand dunes, rocky terrain and the blazing sun. The Al-Fahidi Fort is Dubai's oldest building and was built at the beginning of the 19th century and now houses the Dubai Museum. Narrow alleys lead through the Goldsuk, the traditional covered bazaar, in which shops and stalls are packed closely together, with merchandise worth millions glittering in tempting shop windows. But for those who wish to experience something a little different, the sand dunes of the desert are the perfect setting for Dune Riding, an exhilarating extreme sport that's off the normal tourist trail. Setting off in convoy in four-wheel drive vehicles, at first the track is smooth, though undulating and, to get into the mood, this initial terrain is usually tackled with caution. And then it begins: as though on a continuous roller coaster set on sand, the horizon moves constantly as the ride follows deep ruts and then, at high acceleration, ascends high dunes, only to return downwards at stomach-churning speed. Then, in the mountains, the Wadi Water Drive follows craggy riverbeds and bumpy gravel tracks followed by further thrills in the fascinating Hajar Mountains. After all this, a camel ride turns the frenzied ridiculous into tranquil sublime and a Bedouin barbecue rounds off a perfect day in an ancient land that offers more than just a holiday!
On Tour... ARABIAN DESERT...
Categories: Holiday Location and Places 
Added: 210 days ago
By: travel-video
Runtime: 1m30s
Views: 17  | Comments: 0
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MTW-DVD-111 - BURJ AL ARAB The latest symbol of the Emirates, Dubai's Burj Al Arab, is an arabian tower that extends high into the sky, the only seven star hotel in the world built upon its own artificial island in the Persian Gulf. The hotel's exterior is shaped like a gigantic sail bent by the wind, a wonder of hotel design that is without equal. The sound of water fountains mingles with Arabian melodies and combines to produce an almost meditative atmosphere, while the aroma of incense brings to mind the story of the 1001 Nights. This exclusive hotel is mainly frequented by clientele from the oil-rich Gulf States and its long list of V.I.P. guests is no surprise especially when considering that a night's stay costs between 1,500 and 10,000 dollars! Created from the inspiration of Arab oil sheikhs, the Burj Al Arab comprises 202 suites on 28 floors and at 321 metres high it is currently the world's tallest hotel. It's décor includes 2000 square metres of gold leaf: here it can truly be said that all glisters with gold! This new symbol of Dubai, the Burj Al Arab, is a truly unique and exceptional world-class luxury hotel of the highest order.
Modern Times Wonders BURJ...
Categories: Holiday Location and Places 
Added: 210 days ago
By: travel-video
Runtime: 1m41s
Views: 13  | Comments: 0
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GTR-DVD-1155 - In the mountain area close to Palermo is the picturesque town of Monreale, a townscape that for more than eight hundred years has been dominated by a single building: Monreale Cathedral was built due to a struggle for power between the Bishop Of Palermo and the Norman King, William The Second.Architecturally, the cathedral possesses a wonderful harmony of styles including those of Norman, Romanic and Arabian. With the building of the cathedral and the elevation of the city to an archbishopric, William The Second had created a worthy competitor to Palermo Cathedral.The Norman cathedral and its adjacent cloister are two historical jewels that give a special significance to the small town of Monreale and the buildings proudly overlook their former rivals in the Sicilian metropolis of Palermo.Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.
Global Treasures MONREALE...
Categories: Holiday Location and Places 
Added: 210 days ago
By: travel-video
Runtime: 1m25s
Views: 10  | Comments: 0
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GTR-DVD-1010 - TORRE DE BELÉM Lisboa, Portugal Widely visible, and in the form of a ship rising out of the sea, Portugal's Torre De Belem is a fascinating structure which symbolises the spirit of discovery of its creator, King Manuel I. Here, Byzantine, Venetian, Arabian, and even Indian building elements, combine in monumental Manuelism style.In order to protect the approaches to Lisbon, canons point threateningly out to sea and its vast cellars were originally used as a means of defence. Massive stone blocks hermetically seal the interior from the outside world. It was here that the discover, Vasco Da Gama, dreamed of distant lands.Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.
Global Treasures TOWER OF...
Categories: Holiday Location and Places 
Added: 210 days ago
By: travel-video
Runtime: 1m9s
Views: 17  | Comments: 0
Rating: Not yet rated
GTR-DVD-1241 - Stone Town is one of the oldest districts in the city of Zanzibar, East Africa's oldest town that is still inhabited today. In addition to beautiful windows it is the city's richly decorated doors that have become a unique feature of Zanzibar's architecture. The colourful spirit of the city can be experienced in the many labyrinth-like markets that bring Stone Town to life. The chaos, excitement and hectic pace of the fruit and vegetable markets is a real feast of the senses. Up until the end of the nineteenth century Zanzibar's central slave market was held on the site of today's Anglican Church. A fascinating group of sculptures recalls this dark and cruel chapter of the island's history, a highly profitable business that was controlled by the Arabian upper classes. Following the revolution of 1964 the Sultan's Palace was also transformed and today it is the People's Palace and is open to the public. It contains a museum that provides a fascinating insight into the opulent lifestyle of the Sultan's court. Stone Town days usually come to their most beautiful climax when the fishing boats return to the harbour and the setting sun fills the sky with a kaleidoscopic array of magnificent colours. Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.
Global Treasures STONE...
Categories: Holiday Location and Places 
Added: 210 days ago
By: travel-video
Runtime: 1m21s
Views: 9  | Comments: 0
Rating: Not yet rated
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