Nautica - December 7, 2022

Dubai is a popular destination for a relaxing beach holiday, an adventurous desert experience, wild nightlife or a weekend away to shop in the electronics and gold markets. Dubai has beautiful white beaches, clear blue seas, first class international hotels, and fine restaurants. In fact, Dubai has everything you could wish for to have a memorable getaway.

Dubbed the Garden City of the Gulf, Abu Dhabi now offers visitors a variety of options to explore, such as green parks, clean beaches, and a range of marine and other sports, from powerboat races to sand-skiing and exotic adventures in the desert. Tourists can also pay a visit to the oasis city of Al Ain and enjoy a sightseeing tour to archaeological and leisure sites such as Al Hili Fun City.

Fujairah city, the capital of the emirate, is characterized by the jagged Hajar mountains, which border the fertile coastal plain where most settlement has taken place. Blessed with dramatic scenery, Fujairah attractions include some excellent diving sites, the natural beauty of the mountains and coastline, cultural and historic attractions and of course, reliable winter sunshine.

The town has changed in recent times, but a glimpse of Muscat's past shows in the old houses lining the Mutrah corniche above the harbor, and in the traditional market souks. See the Sultan's Palace, the National Museum and perhaps indulge in Amonage or Ubar perfumes produced here -- The world's most expensive.

Mumbai (also called Bombay), the capital of the state of Maharashtra, is the Gateway to India, signified by the Apollo Bunder, Mumbai's most famous monument and landmark. Visit the Hanging Gardens for a great panoramic view of Bombay. The ancient Mahalaxmi Temple, the shrine of the goddess of wealth, is also a popular destination.

Mormugao is located in Marmagao in Goa state. Mormugao Harbour is one of the most striking natural ports on the west coast of India. Tourists are attracted by the liberal atmosphere, the colonial Portuguese feel, the splendid beaches, and the fabulous sunsets. The seafood of the area is also said to be excellent.

Mangalore, a large port town on the Arabian Sea, is known for both its coconut tree-covered hills and many picturesque beaches (beware - swimming here is risky due to the tides). Visit the Hindu temples, especially the Sri Krishna Temple, a popular pilgrimage destination. Be sure to try the Kori-Roti, a local chicken curry and bread dish.

The importance of Cochin's history is extremely apparent in its architecture. At the Church of St. Francis, visit the tomb of the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. Be sure to visit the old Jewish Synagogoue, ancient church of Malayattu, Fort Cochin, and other examples of the ancient Dravidian civilization. And don't forget to sample the some of the region's curry-heavy cuisine.

The Maldives are the vision of a castaway paradise with a garland of 2,000 coral atolls crowned with coco palms floating in the Indian Ocean. Their houses are built from blocks cut from the surrounding coral. Taste the golden coconut candy that is their passion, snorkel in the clear waters, see an astounding variety of fish, or soar by helicopter to a nearby isle.

The Maldives are the vision of a castaway paradise with a garland of 2,000 coral atolls crowned with coco palms floating in the Indian Ocean. Their houses are built from blocks cut from the surrounding coral. Taste the golden coconut candy that is their passion, snorkel in the clear waters, see an astounding variety of fish, or soar by helicopter to a nearby isle.

The Seychelles have a singular magic, whether you are lazing in the sun or paddling around with a snorkel or scuba gear. Uninhabited until modern times, these East African islands are known for exquisite beaches and pristine coral reefs.

An aura of charm and tranquility surrounds La Digue. This island is accessible by boat and helicopter; about two and a half hours from Mahe and thirty minutes from Praslin. For years the way of life on La Digue has remained uncharged, transport is mainly by ox-cart or bicycle. On La Digue, time seems to stand still.

The Seychelles have a singular magic, whether you are lazing in the sun or paddling around with a snorkel or scuba gear. Uninhabited until modern times, these East African islands are known for exquisite beaches and pristine coral reefs.

The city of Mombasa is located primarily on Mombasa Island in the Indian Ocean and partly on the mainland (to which it is connected by a causeway). It is Kenya's chief port and an important commercial and industrial center. Manufactured goods include processed food, cement, and glass. The solid economic foundation, which includes oil refining, has paved the way for a healthy tourist industry in recent years.

For many centuries, traders from Europe, India, the Orient and Arabia were lured to these shores. It was from here that explorer David Livingstone set off on his last expedition into the heart of the continent. Today, as you walk along the winding streets of the old Stone Town, lined with whitewashed coral rag houses, you can see reminders of this rich history all around you. Visit the Palace museum, former residence of the Omani Sultans, and the cathedral that now stands on the site of the notorious slave market.

Mayotteis one of the four main islands of the Comoros archipelago. It lies at the northern end of the Mozambique Channel. Mayotte is a dependency of France, although sovereignty over it is claimed by the country of Comoros. The main island is volcanic in origin, with a mountainous terrain and rocky coastline. Mayotte is almost entirely surrounded by a coral reef.

Richards Bay has developed into one of the most picturesque towns and the economic heartbeat of KwaZulu-Natal. It is considered to be one of the world's best equipped and most effective multi purpose handling ports. Richards Bay is often described as South Africa's 'boom town''. Industry and business in Richards Bay are taking huge steps to ensure that KwaZulu-Natal is at the forefront of South African economic development.

African and Oriental cultures merge harmoniously in the cosmopolitan city of Durban. Zulu rickshaw drivers beckon passengers along Durban's Marine Parade. Silks and gold-threaded saris tempt visitors at the Oriental Arcades. In addition to golden beaches, Durban offers a fascinating history. It is also gateway to Zululand, where the drumbeat of tribal dancing is testimony to the enduring traditions of the Zulus. A visit to Shakaland is an experience of tribal customs.

One of the world's most scenic harbors, the "Mother City" has welcomed sailors since Portuguese navigators first rounded the Cape of Good Hope in the 15th century. Take a cable car ride to the summit of massive, flat-topped Table Mountain, the city's dominating landmark, for a panoramic view of the Cape from 3,300 feet. At nearby Stellenbosch, the university town famous for its Cape Dutch architecture, sip crisp local vintages at one of the well-known wine estates.

One of the world's most scenic harbors, the "Mother City" has welcomed sailors since Portuguese navigators first rounded the Cape of Good Hope in the 15th century. Take a cable car ride to the summit of massive, flat-topped Table Mountain, the city's dominating landmark, for a panoramic view of the Cape from 3,300 feet. At nearby Stellenbosch, the university town famous for its Cape Dutch architecture, sip crisp local vintages at one of the well-known wine estates.