Golbal Travel Insurance Center

Background Information to the United Arab Emirates and Dubai: -

Dubai is one of the seven states that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE); it is located in the Middle East. The UAE borders the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf and is situated between Oman and Saudi Arabia. The United Arab Emirates was formed in 1971 by the then ‘Trucial States’ after their independence from Britain.

The UAE is governed by a Supreme Council of Rulers, the council is made up of the seven emirs and they appoint the prime minister and the cabinet for the country. Despite being ultimately ruled by the Supreme Council, as with the other six states, Dubai maintains a large degree of autonomy from the UAE when it comes to general decision making for the city’s development.

Oil was first discovered in the United Arab Emirates in the 1950s, before that the country’s economy was built on fishing and pearling, since 1962, when Abu Dhabi became the first of the emirates to begin exporting the oil, the country’s economy has been completely transformed.

Sheikh Zayed, who has been the president of the UAE since its inception, quickly understood the economic potential for the country from the oil industry. He has continued to ensure that each of the emirates benefits from the oil generated wealth, he has insisted on the reinvestment of oil revenues into the healthcare system, the education system and the general national infrastructure.

The development of the oil industry has led to a large influx of foreign workers to the UAE, in fact Dubai’s population is the fastest growing in the world and the foreign population makes up about three quarters of the entire UAE population! As a direct result of this fact the UAE is one of the most liberal countries in the Gulf, with other cultures and beliefs tolerated. Dubai has also been quick to understand the need for diversification. Oil in the region is only projected to last for about 30 years and so Dubai has successfully embarked upon a major diversification program aimed to at developing industries and commercial enterprises to take the place of oil as the predominate commodity of the state’s economy.

The climate in Dubai is sub-tropical and arid or desert like. The city enjoys almost year round sunny blue skies. Rain is infrequent and if it does fall, it falls in the winter.

Temperatures range from lows of 10

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Your good health is paramount while traveling and taking simple precautions can drastically reduce your chances of falling ill.

Health Insurance

An insurance package that covers your health, possessions and cancellations is imperative.

Immunizations

Immunizations are critical - especially if you are planning to visit 3rd world countries. Many immunizations require a specific time period to take effect or require certain follow-up shots - so plan well ahead. You should record any immunization shots received on an official health certificate as this is often a requirement of visa applications.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can advise you on the current recommendations for your intended destination.

General

Food and water are one of the leading causes of illness for travelers. These simple tips can drastically reduce your chances of illness:

- If the water is suspect, don’t take the risk. This includes ice, food washed and prepared in the water and swimming pools. Buy bottled water or boil/sterilize existing water.

- Only consume fruit and vegetables that can be pealed or are protected by an outer skin (bananas, oranges, pineapple etc)

- Wash you hands thoroughly before all meals.

- When purchasing meat and seafood, look for proper refrigeration.

- Cooked food is generally safer for consumption. Raw and undercooked food can carry an array of pathogens.

- Be wary of un-pasteurized milk and milk products

- The National Center for Infectious Diseases publishes informative traveler’s health information. Food and drink risks can be accessed through: http://www.cdc.gov/travel/food-drink-risks.htm

Insect Bites

Be sure to cover up with insect repellant - especially when traveling the tropics. Spray on repellant with DEET will offer you the greatest protection. Use mosquito nets while sleeping. Also, be sure to research whether insect carried diseases are a problem where you intend to travel.

Sunburn

Many of us travel to find a spot in the sun but overexposure can cause severe sunburn. Stay in the shade during extreme burn times and use plenty of sun block. When choosing sun block, check the SPF Factor and the brand. SPF 30+ is recommended when traveling down-under.

Article by Travel J - Traveler’s Resources & Information - http://www.travelj.com

Sarah Moore has been in the travel and tourism industry for over 20 years and is currently working with one of the worlds largest coach networks. Sarah is also the webmaster of TravelJ - A Traveler’s Resources & Information Network - http://www.travelj.com

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People often underestimate the advantages of getting away for a weekend. Often people don’t go anywhere thinking “I can’t afford a week long vacation” or “I don’t have time to take a week off”. You would be surprised how just getting away for a couple of days will make you feel as though you did have a week long break! Here are some more advantages of taking a short vacation break:

It Costs Less

No doubt about it, paying for a hotel and meals for 3 nights instead of 7 will set you back less out of the pocket book.

It Takes Less Planning Time

Many mini vacations are available as last minute deals, saving you time and money. All you need to do is pick the destination and pack your bags!

Recharge Time

What are you planning to do this weekend? Mow the lawn? Do the Laundry? Get some paperwork done? Getting away from the routine and daily demands, even for 2 or 3 days will help recharge the batteries. When you stay around the house, you are reminded of what needs to be done and it adds to the stress.

New Discoveries

Often you may not consider visiting a particular area or city for a long stretch but a few days does the trick. There are many places you can go and see where three days is enough. Instead of two week long vacations, you could pack in 4 weekends and visit 4 different destinations!

It Can Be As Exotic or Low Key As You want

Depending on your travel time, Mexico, Canada and US destinations are all do-able for North American’s for shorter jaunts. Many cruise lines now also offer 3-day packages.

It’s a Great Way to Celebrate

Do you have a special occasion coming up? An anniversary, birthday or another special day. Is there a long weekend on the horizon? What a great way to make it really special.

Whether you are going to travel with the family or as a couple for a romantic weekend, the sky is the limit. You will come back feeling refreshed and rejuvenated and wondering when you can go again!

Jolana Klobouk is a former travel agent who has traveled extensively for work and vacations with her family. For more travel information, visit her travel websites: http://www.best-family-beach-vacations.com and http://www.best-romantic-vacations.com

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