Buy your ticket from GULF AIR before 30th June 2004 to Win Free flights for a year to any destination of your choice, any number of times! Draw to be held Every Week! The draw includes all passengers of Gulf & Middle East in that week. The winning passenger will be entitled to Free flights in the same class. Offer also includes Gulf Air Holidays packages. For more details call 800 72424, your travel agent or visit www.gulfairco.com
(OA/PAC/28-04)

INDIAN AIRLINES will operate Special Summer Flights from Muscat to Mumbai on 27th, 28th May, 3rd, 4th, 10th & 11th June, 16th, 23rd & 30th July. For more information call 790771, 791914, Fax 781981, Email: ialmct@omantel.net.om, visit us at www.indian-airlines.com
(OA/PAC/14-04)

The Directorate General of Tourism and Shell Oman are launching ‘My Beautiful Oman’, a new initiative to promote domestic tourism during the summer season traditionally a period of low-key activity in Oman. The programme focuses on highlighting the tourism potential to Omani and expatriate residents, as well as tourists visiting oman. The Directorate General of Tourism is compiling a ‘Short Break Holiday Guide’ that will include information and special promotions in summer season about the hotels, restaurants, car rentals, tour operators, dive centres, and so on. 300,000 copies of the 16-page booklet, printed in English and Arabic will be distributed using Shell Oman’s network of 40 Select Convenience Stores located around the country from mid-May to mid-August.
(OA/PAC/13-04)

Travel to any destination in India or Sri Lanka between 1st April – 31st May to get Free Shopping voucher worth RO 5 at the Seeb International Airport as a Special Promotional scheme from OMAN AIR! Ruwi 707222, Seeb International Airport 519347, 519591, Khasab 830487, Salalah 292777 ext. 102, 289826, Al Ain 7655517, Abu Dhabi 6266800 & Dubai 3518080, visit us at www.oman-air.com, email: omanairtours@oas.com.om
(OA/PAC/8-04)

OMAN AIR to fly Non-stop to Bahrain with 5 weekly flights from 12th April 2004. pay Once & Fly Twice as a Special Introductory Offer. Tickets should be purchase before 30th April 2004. flights every Saturday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday. For more details call 707222, 750812, Fax: 765121, 707222, visit us at www.oman-air.com, email: omanairtours@oas.com.om
(OA/PAC/4-04)

AIR INDIA to operate an Airbus A310 every Thursday providing direct connection for Salalah - Kozhikode with connecting flights to Thiruvananthapuram or Kochi from 1st April 2004. The connecting flights to Thiruvananthapuram or Kochi will be provided to the passengers at no extra cost as Kozhikode. The Airbus will leave Salalah at 3.05pm, arriving in Kozhikode at 8.40pm, return flight at 9.35am from Kozhikode, arriving in Salalah at 2.05pm on Friday. The airline will allow liberal baggage allowance on these flights. Air-India will operate direct flights to Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi later this year. The Airline will also increase the frequency of these weekly flights to twice-weekly as per demand. For details contact your travel agent or Air India at 799801, 799802
(OA/PAC/4-04)

EMIRATES Airlines offers special Fares for destinations in India with a stopover in Dubai. Delhi RO 90 (one way) & RO 135 (return), Mumbai RO 90 (one way) & RO 135 (return), Hyderabad RO 115 (one way) & RO 195 (return), Chennai RO 125 (one way) & RO 195 (return) & Cochin RO 125 (one way) & RO 155 (return) + applicable taxes. For more details contact 792222, email: ekmuscat@emirates.com, discover frequent flyer benefits at www.skywards.com
(OA/PAC/29-03)

Book and pay for your holidays in advance to Get 5% Off on Holiday Packages with EMIRATES. New range of brochures covering destinations in 36 countries across Africa & Indian Ocean, Asia & Australasia, Europe, Middle East & North America available Free at all leading Travel agents from 1st April 2004. For more information call Emirates Holidays on 783030, Fax 786700, Email: emirates.holidays@emirates.com
(OA/PAC/29-03)

Oman Air and Gulf Air have signed a code-sharing agreement for travel services in the Gulf, East Africa and other destinations around the world. The network expansion will allow selling of tickets on each others’ flights, convenient schedules, frequent flyer programmes, airport lounge access and systems development to support a convenient travel for both airlines’ customers. Flights between Muscat and Dubai will be operated by Oman Air on behalf of Gulf Air and Oman Air. Flights between Muscat and Dar Es Salaam, Mombassa and Zanzibar (formerly operated by Gulf Traveller) will also be operated by Oman Air on behalf of both carriers. flights between Muscat and Jeddah will be operated by Gulf Air with the Gulf Traveller with immediate effect. Gulf Air will expand the code-share arrangement to cover the new direct, non-stop services to London, Frankfurt, Paris, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Dhaka, Riyadh and Manila effective June 2004.
(OA/PAC/29-03)

BAHWAN Travel Agency will offer Special Visa Service for Omani Nationals & expatriates traveling to Australia. The processing of application after submitting the applications with completed papers takes 7 working days. For Europeans & other nationalities, BTA offers the Electronic Travel Advice service, a type of electronically generated visa issuing facility, which is endorsed on arrival in Australia. For more information call Baburaj Pillai, In Charge, Visa Cell on 707119, 704455, 785087, 798861, Fax: 795363
(OA/PAC/17-03)

Get 50% Off on 2nd Passenger with Star Cruise Holidays. Cruise on SuperStar Virgo from Singapore, Penang, Phuket & back to Singapore. For more information call your local travel agent. Visit us at www.starcruises.com
(OA/PAC/17-03)

GULF AIR offers Special Fares in Spring Seat Sale! Beirut for RO 145, Casablanca for RO 185, Damascus for RO 145, Istanbul for RO 180, Karachi for RO 60, Lahore for RO 111, Larnaca for RO 165, Manila for RO 199, Peshawar for RO 90, Singapore for RO 290 & Sydney for RO 390! Offer valid for Return Economy Class travel. For more information call 800 724724 or visit us at www.gulfairco.com
(OA/PAC/16-03)

AIRARABIA offers Special fares for month of March from Sharjah to Doha starting RO 6, Muscat starting RO 7, Shiraz starting RO 8, Tehran starting RO 9, Bahrain starting RO 11, Assiut starting RO 12, Kuwait starting RO 13, Beirut starting RO 14, Colombo starting RO 15, Damascus starting RO 16, Alexandria starting RO 17 & Aleppo starting RO 18! Limited seats available. Prices exclusive of tax for one trip. For more information call Shanfari Travel and Tourism LLC, Shatti Al Qurum 601081/82, Fax 601061, Ruwi 700268/789812, Fax 785371, Salalah 297687, Fax 294792, E-mail: touroman@shanfari.com, visit us at www.airarabia.com
(OA/PAC/16-03)

AL HASHAR Tours offers four different packages for cricket fans to watch the series between India and Pakistan based on the ODI schedule. These packages differ from each other on inclusions, duration and the value starting from RO150 & RO175 for two nights at Karachi and Lahore respectively, RO199 & RO255 for three and five nights at Lahore respectively with airfare, transfers, match tickets, half-day city tour at both the places along with assistance in visa from Pakistan Embassy. Pakistan government has introduced special cricket visa for cricket matches. For more information call 567453, 568428, E-mail: ahtours@omantel.net.om
(OA/PAC/9-03)

THOMAS COOK offers 15-day European Extravaganza for all-inclusive price of Euro 1750/- only. The other packages are Hallmarks of Europe for 20 days for Euro 2320, Best of Europe for 11 days for Euro 1455, Swiss Delights for 7 days for Euro 865, American Splendours for 20days for US$3349, Australian Discovery for 11days for AUD$ 1525, Surprising Scandinavia with Russia for 13days for Euro 1885. Book for a family for four before 15th March to save up to 300 Euros. For more information call BAHWAN TOURS, Tel: 797405, 704455, Fax: 799825, E-mail: btatours@omantel.net.om, visit us at www.thomascook.co.in, email: holidays@inthomascook.com
(OA/PAC/29-02)

Oman Air will fly to Bahrain starting April 2004 taking the total number of destinations to 19. Oman Air will also introduce New Delhi and Hyderabad, two new destinations in India subject to government approvals. For more information call 707222 (10 lines), Ruwi: 750812, 707222, Seeb International Airport 519347, 519591, Khasab 830487, Salalah 292777 ext. 102, 289826, visit us at www.oman-air.com, email: omanairtours@oas.com.om
(OA/PAC/24-02)

COX & KINGS offers Jewels of Europe tour for $ 1999 for 14 days/13 nights including London, Brussels, Netherlands, Rhineland, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Pisa, Switzerland & Paris including Free package worth $ 925! European Splendours Tour for 20days / 19nights for $2699, London Dhamaka for 5days / 4nights for $559 & Swiss Splendours for 7days / 6nights for $975! Prices per adult on twin sharing, exclusive of airfare & visa + surcharges. For more information call AL HASHAR TOURISM & TRAVELS, Tel: 567453, 560066, E-mail: ahtours@omantel.net.om
(OA/PAC/24-02)

Gulf Air will operate direct flights to London (Heathrow Airport) from Muscat from 21st June this year. Currently the airline operates two daily flights to London — one via Abu Dhabi and the other via Bahrain. Gulf Air is the second largest airline operating out of Seeb International Airport with 120 flights a week.
(OA/PAC/8-02)

SOTC’s World Famous Tours offers 14 days Classic Tour of Europe covering England, Belgium, Holland, Germany, Switzerland, Italy & France for US $ 1999, 17 days Grand Tour of Europe covering England, Belgium, Holland, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Italy & France for US $ 2399, 8 days Highlights of Europe covering England, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland & France for US $ 1199 & 8 days scenic Switzerland covering Zurich, Lucerne, Bern & Villars for US $ 1249. new vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies Menu everyday for the tours designed by Sanjeev Kapoor. Offer limited to first 200 customers only. For more information call ARIES Travel & Tours LLC, Tel 704692, Fax 704719, Email: sotcmct@hotmail.com, visit us at www.sotctours.com
(OA/PAC/13-01)

Fly to Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai or Riyadh for Free when you purchase ticket from Muscat to Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Casablanca, Doha, Khartoum, Larnaca, Riyadh, Sanaa, Shiraz, Singapore, Sydney or Tehran with GULF AIR! Purchase your tickets between 10th – 23rd January and get Free ticket in the same class of travel. Outbound and return travel must be complete between 1st February – 31st March 2004. For your Free ticket, present your used ticket and boarding pass to your local Gulf Air Office. Travel on the Free ticket must be completed by 31st May 2004. for more information call 800 724724 or visit us at www.gulfairco.com
(OA/PAC/6-01)

Air Arabia, the Sharjah-based airliner will add destinations in Kerala, India to its network effective March 2004. Air Arabia’s - a no-frill airline, the fares are quoted one way to allow customer’s the flexibility to choose their return destination at their convenience and an early booking of seats to avail of cheaper fares but the carrier does not allow any refunds. In the event of a passenger missing a flight neither the passenger nor the agent will be entitled to a refund and the passenger loses the entire ticket money. Air Arabia does not issue tickets. Instead, reservation for a particular flight is confirmed by a confirmation number. Once the number is obtained, there is no need for the passenger to reconfirm a flight. However, reservations and names of passengers may be changed 24 hours prior to scheduled departure (‘subject to availability’), upon payment of a fee of RO5 per person per flight sector. In addition, passengers will be liable to pay any difference between the original fare paid and the current fare available at the time the change is made. Refunds are considered only in exceptional circumstances such as death and on medical grounds, on a fee of RO5 per passenger, per sector when a valid certificate is produced. For more information call Shanfari Travel and Tourism LLC, Shatti Al Qurum 601081/82, Fax 601061, Ruwi 700268/789812, Fax 785371, Salalah 297687, Fax 294792, E-mail: touroman@shanfari.com, visit us at www.airarabia.com
(OA/PAC/04-01)

Khasab Airport & Golden Tulip Resort in the wilayat of Khasab was formally opened by Maqbool bin Ali Sultan, Minister of Commerce and Industry & Juma bin Ali Juma, Minister of Manpower. The passengers’ terminal at Khasab Airbase built at a cost of RO 2.410 million will help stimulate tourism and provide job opportunities for youth in the region. The Golden Tulip Resort which has been built at the cost of RO 2 million covers an area of 18,000 sq. mts. The resort which oversees the Strait of Hurmuz consists of 45 rooms, three suites and 12 chalets, Diba Restaurant and Musandam Conference Hall.
(OA/PAC/28-12)

Oman Air has launched Muscat -Khasab package for RO74 per person. The package includes return ticket, two nights’ stay in the 4-Star Golden Tulip Resort (single room), with airport transfers and breakfast (on both days). The twin sharing facility would cost RO62 per person. Oman Air has also launched packages to visit more than one destination in Oman on the same trip covering Khasab, Muscat and Salalah.
Khasab is blessed with rugged but fascinating terrain with mountains rising above 2,000 metres forming inlets that resemble Norway’s Fjords, great sea diving spots, lovely sandy beaches, archaeological sites dating back to 6,000 years. For more information call Oman Air at 707222, Fax: 765121, Khasab 830487, Salalah 292777 ext. 102, 289826, visit us at www.oman-air.com , email: omanairtours@oas.com.om
(OA/PAC/24-12)

Oman has embarked on an ambitious tourism development plan for Musandam — fondly known as the Norway of Arabia situated on the Northern tip of Oman, near the Strait of Hormuz. This winter getaway will be included in the RO50 million budget earmarked for tourism development in Oman. Musandam will see comprehensive development at Khasab port, renovation of the Khasab castle/fort, development of Golden Tulip Resort and construction of other hotels. Dibba hotel in Musandam will be built with a capacity of 42 rooms and is expected to open in March 2005. Musandam Special package available with two nights stay on sharing basis at the Golden Tulip for RO58. For more information call 707222, Fax: 765121, Khasab 830487, Salalah 292777 ext. 102, 289826, visit us at www.oman-air.com , email: omanairtours@oas.com.om
(OA/PAC/24-12)

Qatar Airways will fly to Austrian capital, Vienna as its 46th destination thrice a week via Munich every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. On the return sector, flights from Vienna to Doha via Munich will operate every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. An A300-600 aircraft will service the Vienna route. Qatar Airways operates 43 services per week to nine destinations across Europe. For more information call Qatar Airways in Muscat at 787770.
(OA/PAC/21-12)

Oman’s tourism authorities have embarked on an ambitious RO11 million marketing and promotion campaign for 2004 and 2005 to present Oman as a ‘World-Class Nature Experience’ for tourists. RO50 million have been allocated in the Sixth Plan period for tourism. THE Government is planning to start Destination Resorts in Oman for which the Sites have already been identified. Seven new designs have been shortlisted for developing new corporate identity or logo for Oman Tourism. The current logo ‘sun and the strap’ & ‘the Essence of Arabia’ are being abandoned.
(OA/PAC/21-12)

QATAR AIRWAYS has introduced a non-stop flight to Singapore and Southern Philippines city of Cebu as the airline’s 47th and 48th destinations. Airbus A300-600 with business-economy configuration would operate on the Doha-Singapore route. Non-stop flights to Singapore will leave Doha on Tuesday, Wednesdays and Saturdays at 8.30pm, arriving at Singapore’s Changi Airport at 11.00am the next day. Return flights will leave Singapore at 7.15am and arrive in Doha at 10.15am local time. Qatar Airways Holidays offers 3-night package to Singapore starting from QR3,100 per person with 4-star Pan Pacific Hotel on twin sharing basis for double room, including return economy flights, hotel accommodation, breakfast, taxes and transfers. Qatar Airways flies to Seoul, Shanghai, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta & Manila in the Far East. For more information call Qatar Airways in Muscat at 787770 or your local travel agent!
(OA/PAC/21-12)

SIA will launch no-frills airline with Ryanair called Tiger Airlines along with the Singapore government’s investment arm, Temasek Holdings and US private investors Indigo Partners in year 2004. SIA will hold a 49 per cent stake.
(OA/PAC/14-12)

An agreement for RO2.5 million was signed at the Ministry Commerce and Industry for establishing two hotels in wilayats of Diba and Masirah. Diba hotel will be built with a capacity of 42 rooms, while Masirah hotel will have 24 rooms. Both the hotels are expected to open in March 2005. Al Hutta Cave in the wilayat of Al Hamra will be developed at the cost of RO2 million. The cave which is under renovation is expected to open in December 2004. The Ministry of Tourism will add several services during the year 2004, including the hot water springs of Al Kasfa in the wilayat of Al Rustaq and Al Ansab in the wilayat of Bausher.
(OA/PAC/2-12)

AIR INDIA has introduced 3 weekly flights on the Mumbai-Frankfurt-Chicago sector on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. With the commencement of these services, Air-India will now operate to Frankfurt and Chicago six times a week. The airline was earlier operating three services a week on the Mumbai-Delhi-Frankfurt sector and three services to Chicago from Mumbai via London. For details contact your travel agent or Air India at 799801, 799802
(OA/PAC/2-12)

Bahwan Tours and Omani Travel & Tourism Bureau launched Special Holiday packages for Far East destinations for winter holidays. Destinations include Kuala Lumpur for 4 days for RO255; Bangkok for 4 days for RO160; Bangkok & Singapore for 7 days for RO299; and Phuket for 4 days for RO188! Package includes return air ticket, 4-star accommodation, breakfast, sightseeing tours, airport pick up/drop off, meet and assist service at airports. OTTB also offers Special prices for Star Cruises to customers in Oman. A 4-day modern luxury on the Virgo on the Singapore-Langkawi Island-Phuket Island-Singapore route costs RO130 per person in a cabin (minimum 4 passengers) inclusive of all meals, snacks tea, coffee, soft drinks cookies, kids meals, entertainment, sports and fitness facilities. Star Cruises sail from Singapore and Hong Kong. OTTB which represents Holiday Autos offers worldwide car rental service in over 4000 locations. For more information call BAHWAN HOLIDAYS, Tel: 797405, 704455, Fax: 799825 Qurum: 564683, Madinat Qaboos: 601192, Al Khuwair: 603893, E-mail: btatours@omantel.net.om
(OA/PAC/2-12)

OUA offers Glimpse of Sri Lankan for 5 Days from RO 232, Cultural Sri Lanka Tour for 5 Days from RO 243, Best of Sri Lanka for 7 Days from RO 260, Honeymoon Special for 7 Days from RO 278 with Srilankan Airlines, Cairo & Alexandria for 4 Days from RO 195, Bangkok for 4 Days from RO 148, Bangkok & Phuket for 7 Days from RO 243, Bangkok & Kuala Lumpur for 7 Days from RO 274, Bangkok & Singapore for 7 Days from RO 290, Bangkok, Phuket & Singapore for 10 Days from RO 390, Kenya for 3 Nights for RO 299, Tanzania 4 Nights for RO 499! Package includes Economy class airfare, accommodation on twin sharing basis & return airport transfers and all sight seeing as per itinerary. Call CENTRE Holidays on 700363, ext 3, Mina Al Fahal 564197, MQ 601722, Ruwi 708635, Sur 441453, SQU 513204, Salalah 294797, Alburj 620175, MOD 619029, Email: centreholidays@ouaoman.com
(OA/PAC/20-11)

Jet Airways will offer about 31,000 seats daily on its network by operating 255 flights to 40 destinations in its new winter schedule with immediate effect. Other highlights of the schedules are a direct flight daily between Delhi and Jodhpur to facilitate passengers to reach Jaisalmer the same day. New generation Boeing 737 aircraft will also replace the ATR72-500 aircraft on Mumbai-Vadodara-Mumbai, Mumbai-Udaipur-Jaipur-Delhi and Delhi-Jaipur-Udaipur-Mumbai sectors offering more seats to match the demand. To meet the heavy traffic demand between Mumbai-Goa-Mumbai, Jet Airways will operate an additional daily flight, in addition to its daily 4 Mumbai-Goa-Mumbai Boeing 737 flights. Jet Airways has a fleet comprising of 32 Classic and Next-Generation Boeing 737 aircrafts and eight Modern turbo-prop aircraft. For more information call 787423 or your local travel agent. E-mail: jetwings@emirates.net.ae, visit us at www.jetairways.com
(OA/PAC/20-11)

Indian Airlines plans to fly to new destinations in India such as Goa, Jaipur and Bhuj. The Airlines currently operates 13 flights a week from Muscat to various Indian destinations like Ahmedabad, Delhi, Kochi, Chennai, Kozhikode (Calicut), Hyderabad and Bangalore. It also offers 60% Discount on domestic sector fare over Delhi to Bhubaneswar, Jaipur, Lucknow, Patna and Varanasi. Special add-on fare to Calcutta, Jodhpur and Pune with an additional amount of RO15 for one way and RO30 for return. Free sectors offered on: ex-Chennai to Coimbatore, Thiruvananthapuram, Trichy and Madurai; ex-Kochi to Trichy and Thiruvananthapuram and ex-Delhi to Chandigarh. Indian Airlines offers packages to Kerala, Goa, Himachal and Jammu and Kashmir + attractive add-on fares to southeast Asian destinations like Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Bangkok on payment of RO30 (one way) and RO60 (return) and fly ex-India.
(OA/PAC/12-11)

Passengers for Amsterdam can fly via Dubai by Gulf Air flight leaving at 22:15 daily and arrive at 23:10 in Dubai to connect KLM flight departing Dubai at 1:30 and arriving in Amsterdam at 5:50 starting 26th October 2003. Passengers on the return journey from Amsterdam to Dubai will depart at 14:30 to arrive in Dubai at 23.59 departing Dubai 1:40 to arrive in Muscat at 2:25. KLM operates four days a week on every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Sunday. KLM will offer the Oman Air connections on other days. For more information visit www.KLM.com/om-en
(OA/PAC/16-10)

Sahara India Airlines offers 40% Discount on its domestic network! The airline has introduced ‘Sixers in the Air’ scheme for the Middle East travellers visiting India. The scheme provides passengers 6-coupon ticket to fly to any destination of his or her choice. A group or family who buy 6 coupons can travel 6 one-way flights to any Air Sahara destination in India. The series of coupons are priced at $599, $699 and $799, respectively for economy class, and $799, $899 and $999 respectively for business class are available for 90-, 180- and 360-days’ validity. Sahara flies about 103 flights to various Indian destinations daily. For more information call BAHWAN TRAVEL AGENCIES LLC, Tel: 707119, 704455, 785087, 798861, Fax: 795363
(OA/PAC/13-10)

Oman Air Holidays Special offers for Salalah at RO70 per person with Return Ticket plus 2 nights sharing accommodation at the Haffa House with breakfast & airport transfer & RO 84 at Crowne Plaza Resort, Salalah per person for 2 nights sharing accommodation with Return Ticket plus breakfast & airport transfer. Mussandam Special package available with two nights stay on sharing basis at the Golden Tulip for RO58. For more information call 707222, Fax: 765121, Khasab 830487, Salalah 292777 ext. 102, 289826, visit us at www.oman-air.com, email: omanairtours@oas.com.om
(OA/PAC/6-10)

Swiss Airlines will screen an information guide called the 'Arrival Programme' on board the aircraft for passengers travelling to Oman. The guide will have the details about visa regulations, luggage collection and other facilities available at Seeb International Airport. The clippings will also include duty-free shopping and general information about Oman such as the currency, office working hours, etc. Swiss operates 26 weekly flights from the Middle East including four weekly flights from Muscat and daily service from Dubai. For details contact your travel agent or Swiss International Airlines in Muscat at 791710, Fax 799502
(OA/PAC/22-09)

NBO & Oman Air have launched a Co-Branded Credit Card in association MasterCard International. Customers will be able to earn double NBO Money Back Loyalty points for Oman Air tickets purchased on the Card from Oman Air offices, get discounts for Oman Air tickets purchased on the card from Oman Air offices, the customers will also get priority booking confirmation in case their ticket is waitlisted. Gold Card customers will be able to avail of lounge facilities at arrival and departure lounges at Seeb International Airport & the cardholders will be able to enter into any promotion organised by Oman Air. For more information call 707222, Fax: 765121, Khasab 830487, Salalah 292777 ext. 102, 289826, Al Ain 7655517, Abu Dhabi 6266800 & Dubai 3518080, visit us at www.oman-air.com, email: omanairtours@oas.com.om
(OA/PAC/17-09)

Kerala Hotels offers a 6-day tour for $365 on twin sharing basis! Package includes accommodation in the hotels on half-board basis (breakfast and an additional meal) and full-board basis (all meals) on the houseboat - besides sightseeing, cultural shows and a car throughout the six-day trip! Package includes spending two nights at Le Meridian Kovalam as well as city tour of Thiruvananthapuram, plus Ayurvedic massage, a drive to Alappuzha, ride on a houseboat on scenic backwaters of Kerala, stay for one night at the lake resort in Kumarakom, a trip to the renowned bird sanctuary of Kumarakom situated on the banks of the Vembanad lake, stay at Le Meridian Cochin for two nights. Plus optional tours to the hill stations of Munnar, and Thekkady including Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Special accommodation for housemaids who are accompanying families, which will include a special three-hour Indian cooking class for the housemaid. For more information call your travel agent or 9518375
(OA/PAC/17-09)

Enroll yourself at www.gulfairco.com to Win Million Miles to get Free flights & upgrades. For more information call GULF AIR at 763535 or call your local travel agent!
(OA/PAC/1-09)

GULF AIR's Global Contact Centre 'Project Falcon' will handle worldwide reservations from Oman and Bahrain with Abu Dhabi and Qatar from mid-September 2003. Gulf Air will operate direct flights to Sydney and Athens from November and from Johannesburg, Amsterdam and Rome in 2004. Direct flights to the United States will also be launched at a latter date. For more information call 763535 or call your local travel agent!
(OA/PAC/1-09)

Muscat Aviation Services has begun Commercial Operations linking Dubai & Salalah with 2 weekly flights on Wednesdays & Fridays in cooperation with Phoenix Aviation from 13th August 2003. The service will gradually be increased to 3 weekly flights. The introductory fare is RO 55 for Economy Class Return excluding taxes. For more information call OMAN AIR 707222 (10 lines), Fax: 765121, Khasab 830487, Salalah 292777 ext. 102, 289826, Al Ain 7655517, Abu Dhabi 6266800 & Dubai 3518080, visit us at www.oman-air.com, email: omanairtours@oas.com.om
(OA/PAC/31-08)

Business Travel Services in association with Golden Oryx Tours offers 4 nights/5 days Tanzania safari package inclusive of airfare for RO500. Spa package to Slovakia inclusive of airfare, treatment and seven nights/eight days on full board basis for RO450! For more information call 782288
(OA/PAC/26-8)

Sur Mercure Hotel offers special package for Turtle Watching! Single/double RO 22/- net inclusive of breakfast + taxes! Special Rates for Budget Rent-A-Car for a self-driven 4WD, additional charge for a guide/driver for an eight hour shift! For reservation call 443777, Fax: 442626, E-mail: resvnsur@omantel.net.om
(OA/PAC/24-8)

Indian Railways offers train ticket reservations for all parts of India for foreign tourists as well as non-resident Indians going home on vacation through National Travel and Tourism - its local agent in Oman. The payments of the tickets can be made in US dollars, Pound Sterling or in Indian rupees. Call International Tourist Bureau’s office at Pahar Ganj, New Delhi to confirm your bookings at 0091-11-23405156 or 0091-11-23343050, Email: ibtnrind@india.vsnl.net.in or itbnrind@hotmail.com Timings: 8am to 8pm from Monday to Saturday and 8am to 2pm on Sundays. Call NATIONAL TRAVEL & TOURISM for more information, Wattayah 566046, Fax 566125, Qurum 564783, 564785, Fax 564784, Salalah 295016, Fax 295019, E-mail: nttoman@omantel.net.om, visit us at www.nttoman.com
(OA/PAC/7-08)

Click on www. klm.com/om_en to avail KLM Online Booking facility. The reservation will be made by KLM directly and sent back to the passenger within one working day. The website also provides latest updates on fares & seasonal promotions that otherwise would not be applicable! For details contact KLM at 566737 or your travel agent!
(OA/PAC/14-7)

GULF AIR offers self service check-in kiosks at the airline’s gateway airports in Muscat, Bahrain and Abu Dhabi. The transaction for single & multiple check-in can be conducted in Arabic or English. For more details visit www.gulfairco.com
(OA/PAC/14-7)

Passengers flying with Indian Airlines can contact Talking Pages on 683030 for Arrival & departure schedule, timing of flights from/to Muscat, numbers of City & Airport Office. Service is available from 7am - 12midnight.
(OA/PAC/16-03)

Kish Airlines from Iran offers daily flights from Muscat to Kish via Dubai with return fare of RO 90 for adults & RO 60 for children. The airline is also offering inaugural packages to Kish Island ranging from RO 109 - RO 127 on twin sharing basis including Economy return airfare, accommodation with buffet breakfast and airport transfers. Kish is a coral island located in the Arabian Gulf, which lies 18 km from the southern coast of the mainland Iran. Foreign nationals can get 14-day visa on arrival at Kish International Airport. The airlines has announced attractive fares to Dubai with return tickets for only RO 45 for adults and RO 30 for children while one-way fare is RO 34 for adults and RO 20 for children. The tickets have one-year validity period! For more details call OUA TRAVEL CENTRE, Tel: 700363, Fax 796998, E-mail: centreholiday@ouaoman.com
(OA/PAC/13-01)

Earn Free Falcon Miles you use your BankMuscat Visa Premier or MasterCard Gold! Redeem these miles for Free flights or upgrades on Gulf Air or Oman Air & Gulf Air Holiday Packages. For more details call BankMuscat on 799358 or Toll-Free 800 79 5555. Visit us at www.bankmuscat.com
(OA/PAC/4-12)

Flying Dutchman Loyalty programme offers members free travel, benefits including upgrades, leisure packages, car rentals, business lounge access, in more than 400 destinations with KLM or its partner airline routes. Introducing miles system & 4-tier membership levels - blue plus, silver elite, gold elite and platinum elite, each of which has a clear set of privileges. For every mile you travel, one award mile is earned. Members move up through the membership-levels as they earn more level miles.
(OA/PAC/4-12)

Log on to www.gulfairco.com to buy your tickets online from GULF AIR or book hotels and hire a car. Tickets will be delivered to your home or at the airport. For more information call Gulf Air in Muscat at 763535, 763535 or your local travel agent!
(OA/PAC/17-10)

Oman Air passengers can now check-in their baggage and obtain boarding cards 6 hours prior to the departure of their flights. This new facility is aimed at easing overcrowding at counters in peak travel season!
(OA/PAC/16-06)

HSBC Credit Card offers you Free airport transfer, Free access to the ‘Wings of Oman’ Oman Air Lounge, Free meet and assist service, travel and accident insurance, purchase protection on all your shopping, global emergency services, 24 million outlets around the world & access for your accounts through any HSBC ATM worldwide + Win 13 fully paid holidays for 2 to Dubai in weekly draw and 3 fully paid holiday for 2 to Australia or Paris in monthly draws! Apply for credit card or every 4 transactions will entitle you to enter the Draw! Call 566091 for more information!
(OA/PAC/21-05)

Air-India has launched their website www.airindia.com with online booking facility. Initially this facility is being offered to those who purchase their tickets in India for travel commencing from any of Air-India's eleven online stations in India viz. Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram, it will progressively be extended to other markets worldwide. Check the schedules to the chosen destination, ascertain availability of seats and fares being offered, make reservations, pay for the tickets online using credit cards and the tickets will be physically delivered to the customers within 48 hours at residential or office address. Passengers purchasing the tickets through the web will also be offered attractive fares and free membership to 'Flying Returns', Air-India's Frequent Flying Programme and double mileage points for the particular segment of travel booked online as introductory offer.
(OA/PAC/5-02)

Non-Muslims permitted to visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque on specified hours and proper dress code that preserves the sanctity of the mosque. Visiting hours are from 8am - 11am from Saturday through Wednesday. No visitors will be allowed on Thursday and Friday. Men should wear suitable clothes that are not short while women should wear clothes that cover their bodies from head to toe. Children under 10 not allowed to the prayer halls. GSMs should be switched off before entering the prayer halls.
The Grand Mosque was inaugurated this year is the largest mosque in Oman. The mosque has an affiliate Quranic School, an institute for Islamic science and a library with 20,000 reference volumes covering a range of Islamic and human sciences and culture and rare manuscripts. The Mosque covers an area of 416,000 square metres and the complex is built over an area of around 40,000 square metres. The three entrances consist of three pedestrian passageways leading into the grounds of the complex, each ending in its own separate open area. Architectural interior combines various features of traditional Islamic arts and crafts. All the decorative architecture used in the designs of the walls, ceiling and screens are based on Omani styles.
(OA/PAC/13/08)