Category: Destinations

What Exotik can offer

The UAE is a country that provides a new setting at every turn, richly mixing together the old and the new; it is without a doubt the leading tourist destination in the Middle East. It offers a great variety of landscapes: Rocky Mountains, huge dunes, sandy beaches, Bedouin villages, and ultra modern malls. Enjoy shopping, luxury and futuristic architecture in Dubai, mosques in Abu Dhabi or a camel market in Al Ain. You’ll discover a rich cultural patrimony. Arabic flavors and welcoming people will charm you.

Cities

Dubai

Dubai is a destination like no other, the city of superlatives, of all surprises. Excellent restaurants, sophisticated spas, international shopping, luxury hotels and dreamy nights await you. But you can pretty much throw your sights on more local flavors with the atmosphere of souks journeys, ABRA (water taxi), the scouring art galleries and kebabs in the area. In all cases, you will be spoiled for choice. Bur Dubai Souk This covered market at the waterfront is very nice, with its signs in Russian, shops overflowing with colorful fabrics, clothing, «antiques» Arab slippers, and bric-a-brac. The Indian neighborhood is the most picturesque part: «Hindi Lane». It’s at night you must walk in the souk of Bur Dubai, when the animation is in full swing. Also, do not miss; Deira Spice Souk and Deira’s Gold Souk. THE DUBAI MUSEUM It is interesting in many ways: for the architecture of the building in which it is installed for the quality of its collections and it is an excellent introduction of the city. ENJOY THE 7« SERVICE OF THE MOST FAMOUS HOTEL IN DUBAI, THE BURJ AL ARAB “ARAB TOWER”. This hotel was the boldest of all projects undertaken by the sheikh. Construction of the building began in 1994 on an artificial island supported by pillars anchored 40 meters deep into the seabed. Its shape is inspired by dhows, the traditional boats of the region. JUMEIRAH MOSQUE Non-Muslims are generally not allowed to enter mosques in Dubai, but it is possible to discover the beautiful Jumeirah Mosque during guided tours offered by the “Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.” These visits are intended to promote understanding between Muslims and residents or visitors from other cultures and religions.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, by far the richest, is also the largest of the seven emirates. Today it’s a huge modern city sparkling and neat. Forty years earlier, it was only a poor little fishing village of fish and pearls. It is hard to imagine. Small streets and alleys give a completely different impression of the image that can be done seen Abu Dhabi. The modern capital of the United Arab Emirates offers a fascinating blend of tradition and modernism. GREAT MOSQUE SHEIKH ZAYED This work of architectural art is one of the largest mosques in the world. It has 80 domes, about 1000 columns, chandeliers made of 24K gold, and the largest hand-woven carpet in the world. The main prayer hall is dominated by the largest chandeliers weighing more than 9 tons. Reflecting pools surround the mosque, amplifying its beauty. The vibrant colors of white and gold, glittering in the sun are replaced overnight by a unique lighting system that reflects the phases of the moon. A must! THE CORNICHE ABU DHABI The Corniche extends over an impressive eight kilometers of well maintained sea front which includes playgrounds for children, bike trails and footpaths, cafes and restaurants, as well as Corniche Beach. The unspoilt beachfront of Abu Dhabi has been awarded the coveted Blue Flag – Ecolabel international reputation for beaches and marinas, which guarantees a clean and safe bathing water. FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI Under its huge red roof iconic attractions include: Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster, reaching speeds of 240 km; Galleria Ferrari, the largest Ferrari gallery outside Maranello with an interactive exhibition of cars from 1947 to the present; Speed of Magic, a fantastic 4D adventure through deep green jungles, icy caves and ravines to the mouth of a fiery volcano.

Language

Arabic and English

Electricity

The electricity is 220-240 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

Entry requirements

Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas, you can refer to the link: www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.  Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country.

Communication

International access code: 00 International dialing code: 971 Concerning national calls made in UAE, it is not necessary to dial the 971 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 971 and finally the local phone number in UAE.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

The United Republic of Tanzania is located in eastern Africa on the Indian Ocean between Mozambique and Kenya and includes the island of Zanzibar. The largest city, Dar Es Salaam, is located along the eastern coast on the Indian Ocean. The terrain includes coastal plains, a central plateau, and highlands in the north and south. It is home to Mt. Kilimanjaro (the highest point in Africa), Lake Victoria (the second largest lake in the world), and the Great Rift Valley.

Cities

Dodoma

Dodoma is the capital of Tanzania, and also that of the Dodoma region. Its population is estimated in 2002 at 324,347 inhabitants. It is located in the center of the country, in the heart of a region producing beans, seeds, nuts, coffee, tea, and tobacco. The region also has livestock farms.

Dar Es Salam

Is a former fshing village in Tanzania which has become a major city and a major trading port on the Indian Ocean coastline. The open-air Museum Village Museum has recreated the traditional houses of local tribes and other Tanzanian tribes. Tribal dance demonstrations are organized. This museum is part of the National Museum, which features exhibits on the history of Tanzania and exhibits the fossils of human ancestors found by anthropologist Louis Leakey.

Arusha

Is a city in northern Tanzania and the capital of the Arusha region. In 2012, its population was 416,442 inhabitants, current estimates are up to 500,000.

Tanga

Tanga is a port city in Tanzania and the capital of the Tanga region. It is located on the coast of the Indian Ocean, close to the border with Kenya. According to the 2002 census, its population population was 243,580.

Language

More than 37.1 million people live in Tanzania. Kiswahili or Swahili (Kiunguju in Zanzibar) and English are the ofcial languages; Arabic and numerous other local languages are spoken as well.

Electricity

Electric power is 230V running at 50Hz.

Communication

International access code: 00 International dialing code: 255 Concerning national calls made in Tanzania, it is not necessary to dial the 255 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 255 and finally the local phone number in Tanzania.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

The Sultanate of Oman is a hidden gem situated on the southeast corner of the Arabian Peninsula. Omani people take pride in their rich cultural heritage and history. It is also a country with a breathtaking natural diversity, combining undulating mountain ranges, myriad wadis, enchanting deserts and endless coastlines. Oman encompasses number of UNESCO-classified World Heritage Sites, from the beehive tombs of the archeological site of Bat, dating back 3000 years, to the mysterious Bahla Fort, and Ras Al-Jinz which is the abode of the exceptional Green Sea Turtles. Experience a holiday like no other as you explore cultural arts, folk arts and performances in our Sultanate. Immerse yourself in its ancient heritage as you walk amongst its lively souqs. Travel back in time as you visit impressive forts of architectural significance. Awaken your senses in the magical fragrances of frankincense and be mesmerized by ancient intricate jewelry. There is so much to experience here, we invite you to come and see for yourself!

Cities

Al Hamra

It’s like stepping back into the past with the locals, who have kept their ancestral traditions alive by weaving carpets and making traditional bread. It’s also about camel racing in the mountains and visiting copper and marble deposits.

Language

Arabic

Electricity

Electricity is 240 volts. An adapter is required.

Communication

Outgoing code: 00Oman country code: 968For national callsFrom Oman, you don’t need to dial the country code 968.If you are calling from Canada, dial 011, then 968.And the local number of the Oman correspondent.

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What Exotik can offer

The Republic of the Philippines is an archipelago in South East Asia composed of 7,107 islands. It is blessed with rich natural resources and miles of beautiful beaches.

Cities

Manila

Manila is the gateway to the 7,107 islands of the Philippines and widely known as Metro Manila. It is the center of entertainment, culture, government, business and finance. Manila is a delightful mix of the old and the new, from modern shopping malls, imposing high-rise buildings, pulsating nightlife to ancient Spanish churches.

Boracay

Boracay Island is best known all around the world for its white powdery sandy beaches and turquoise water. This little piece of paradise offers many activities such as hiking, island hopping, parasailing, surfboarding, snorkeling, and diving.

Cebu

Cebu City, also known as “Queen City of the South”, is the oldest city in the Philippines. Historically, this is where the initial battle between the Filipinos and Spaniards took place. The city was established immediately by the Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi’s in 1565. Rich in culture and natural resources, the island of Cebu boasts of some of the Philippines’ oldest and treasured traditions, festivals, and famed tourist spots of pristine beaches that have been a constant favorite of tourists from all over the world.

Northern Luzon

The largest and highest mountain range in the Philippines is the Cordillera in northern Luzon. The scenery, culture and environment in the mountains are completely different from other destinations of the Philippines. Cordillera Mountains have stunning rice terraces, cool weather and alpine vegetation. The biggest and the most famous city in the Cordillera mountains is Baguio, summer capital of the country, gifted with historical and scenic attractions that makes it a favorite spot for both foreign and local tourists. Banaue, known for incredible ancient rice terraces, considered to be the 8th natural wonder of the world by many Filipinos. The terraces are inhabited mostly by hand from tribal people called Igorots, literally translated as “people from the mountains”. Sagada is small town with a great scenery and famous for hanging coffins and burial caves. Some of the quiet serenity and historical spots can only be found off the beaten path. Bontoc, the historical capital of the entire Cordillera region and home to an extensive collection of tribal artifacts in the museum of mountain culture.

Language

Filipino and English.

Electricity

The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required. 110V a/c is used especially in major hotels.

Entry requirements

 Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas, you can refer to the link: www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories. Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country. 

Communication

International access code: 00 International dialing code: 63 Concerning national calls made in the Philippines, it is not necessary to dial the 63 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 63 and finally the local phone number in the Philippines.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Namibia is situated geographically surrounded on the west by the Atlantic Ocean, north by Angola to the south by the Republic of South Africa, east by Botswana and north-east by Zimbabwe and Zambia. Wedged between the Kalahari and the South Atlantic, Namibia enjoys vast potential as one of the youngest countries in Africa. In addition to having a striking diversity of cultures and national origins, Namibia is a photographer’s dream – it boasts wild seascapes, rugged mountains, lonely deserts, stunning wildlife, colonial cities and nearly unlimited elbow room.

Cities

Windhoek

Windhoek is a city in southern Africa, capital of the Republic of Namibia since its independence in 1990, after having been that of the German and South African colony of South West Africa.

Walvis Bay

Is a port city located on the coast of Namibia. Sheltered by the sandy point of Pelican Point, its coastal lagoon hosts many species of birds, including flamingos, pelicans and terns of whalers. The harbor is flled with fshing boats and freighters. Dolphins, whales and fur seals from South Africa live in Atlantic waters around the Pelican Point lighthouse. East of the bay, coastal sand dunes like Dune 7 mark the beginning of the Namib Desert.

Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park is a unique place in Africa. It has the unique feature of having much of its area covered with a salt marsh that glitters with a silvery color under the heat. Nevertheless the fauna is abundant: giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, elands, leopards and more than 300 species of birds have found refuge there. The dry season is the perfect time to watch thousands of animals gather around water sources in the area.

Otjiwarongo

Otjiwarongo is an agricultural town in northern Namibia, located in the Otjozondjupa region between Windhoek in the south and Etosha National Park in the north. This place is a must for watching cheetahs. The CCF association, is one of the major participants in the protection of cheetahs that allows visitors and locals to better understand this unique and wild animal.

Swakopmund

Swakopmund is a city and seaside resort of Namibia located between the sands of the desert and the waves of the Atlantic coast. Under its airs of a small quiet town hides in reality the main tourist city of the country, after Windhoek. It is the gateway to the impressive Skeleton Coast and the Namib considered the oldest desert in the world that offers breathtaking scenery.

Language

Namibia’s population has many languages. About half of Namibians speak Oshiwambo as a first language, but Afrikaans is the country’s most widely understood language. The official language of Namibia is English, though it is only among the younger generation that this is widely understood.

Electricity

The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

Entry requirements

Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas, you can refer to the link: www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.
Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country. 

Communication

International access code: 00 International dialing code: 264 Concerning national calls made in Namibia, it is not necessary to dial the 264 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 264 and finally the local phone number in Namibia.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Welcome to the Maldives, where sands are white as the smiles of the locals, where fish swim happily in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, where the weather is a dream, and the deep rays of the sun wait to engulf you in their arms. In ancient times, the shores of the Maldives welcomed lost travelers. Still welcoming, these shores remain, providing a tranquil haven for visitors. The Republic of the Maldives is a sovereign nation, located in the Indian Ocean. It consists of 26 atolls with a total area of 298km2. There are 1,196 islands spanning approximately 90,000 km2 of the Indian Ocean making it one of the most disparate countries in the world. Maldivians are appreciated around the world for their hospitality and affability with their guests. The Maldives are blessed with magical and breathtaking sunshine for much of the year. As in tropical countries, it enjoys a dry and wet season. The hot, humid weather is accompanied by refreshing sea breezes and periodic rains. Maldivians share a similar cultural heritage, history, homeland, language and religion (Muslim). These common factors are the reason for the unity and harmony that reigns in the seducing islands. The ancestral roots of the Maldives can be traced back to Sinhala’s of Sri Lanka, Marathi’s and Guajarati’ of India, Arabs, Malays and North Africans. As a result, Maldivians emerged from a mixed race which has enriched the culture and history of the country.

Cities

Male

Male, capital of the Maldives is an island state of the Indian Ocean known for its mosques and colorful buildings. The Islamic Center is a must-see place to explore, it houses a mosque, a library and a unique gold dome. Next to the harbor, you will find the popular fish market that offers products from the day’s catch, as well as a food market full of local fruits. Located in Sultan Park, do not hesitate to visit the National Museum which exhibits regional artifacts, such as ancient weapons and the thrones of the sultans. Continue to the palace of Muliaage, very popular for its wrought iron gates and which was the residence of several presidents, Inside, you will find an enclave housing Medhu Ziyaarai, the tomb of the man who introduced Islam to the Maldives. And fnally fnish on the busy Majeedhee Magu street where you will fnd many restaurants and shops.

Language

Divehi and English.

Weather

 The climate of the Maldives is a warm and humid tropical climate with two monsoon seasons. The best season to enjoy the beaches of the Maldives runs from January to April where you will enjoy an average temperature of 26°C with sunshine that is at its maximum and very rare rains. 

Electricity

The electricity is 220-240 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

Entry requirements

Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas,
you can refer to the link: www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.
Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country. 

Communication

International access code: 00 International dialing code: 960 Concerning national calls made in the Maldives, it is not necessary to dial the 960 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 960 and finally the local phone number in the Maldives.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Laos is a small landlocked country in the Indochinese Peninsula and sparsely populated. Its isolation from foreign influence offers travelers an unparalleled glimpse of traditional Southeast Asian life. From the fertile lowlands of the Mekong River valley to the rugged Annamite highlands, Laos is the highlight of this region. Buddhism plays an important role in the life of the Lao people and has given them a deserved reputation for friendliness, gentleness, kindness, gaiety and wisdom. Traditionally known as the Kingdom of a Million Elephants, Laos is blessed with verdant countryside, glittering Buddhist temples, languid village life and gentle people.

Cities

Vientiane

Vientiane’s unhurried air reflects its status as South-east Asia’s smallest capital. Old French colonial villas mix with tranquil Buddhist temples in this quaint little city nestled on the banks of the Mekong.

Luang Prabang

Historic home of the Laotian Kings, Luang Prabang nestles in a deep river valley ringed by dramatic green mountains. Luang Prabang is listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site for its uniquely preserved architecture and townscape; traditional wooden buildings and European colonial mansions form a backdrop to the daily ritual of saffron-robed monks gathering alms.

Language

Lao, English and French.

Electricity

The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

Entry requirements

 Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas, you can refer to the link: www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.
Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country. 

Communication

International access code: 00 International dialing code: 856 Concerning national calls made in Laos, it is not necessary to dial the 856 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 856 and finally the local phone number in Laos.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Israel has always been a standout destination. From the days of the prophets to the modern day nomad this tiny slice of land on the eastern Mediterranean has long attracted visitors. While some arrive in the ‘Holy Land’ on a spiritual quest, others are in search of cultural tours, beach holidays and eco trips.

Cities

Jerusalem

As a holy city for Judaism, Christianity and Islam, Jerusalem has always been of great symbolic importance. Among its 220 historic monuments, the Dome of the Rock stands out: built in the 7th century, it is decorated with beautiful geometric and floral motifs. It is recognized by all three religions as the site of Abraham’s sacrifice. The Wailing Wall delimits the quarters of the different religious communities, while the Resurrection rotunda in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre houses Christ’s tomb. Jerusalem is a city of overwhelming emotions, a city that promises a religious and spiritual experience, excitement and pleasure, interesting tours and entertaining adventures.

Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv or Tel Aviv-Yafo forms part of the Tel Aviv Metropolitan Area, also known as Gush Dan, which constitutes Israel’s largest metropolitan area. Tel Aviv was founded by the Jewish community on the outskirts of the ancient port city of Jaffa in 1909. Tel Aviv and Jaffa were merged into a single municipality in 1950. Tel Aviv’s White City, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, comprises the world’s largest concentration of Bauhaus buildings. With 2.5 million international visitors annually, Tel Aviv is the fifth-most-visited city in the Middle East. Known as “The City that Never Sleeps” and a “party capital”, it has a lively nightlife, dynamic atmosphere and a famous 24-hour culture.

Haifa

Israel’s third largest city and one of its prettiest, Haifa has a lot to offer visitors. It has the country’s largest port, a particularly active beach and is the home of the World Center of the Bahai Faith. Surrounded by abundant nature sites, the city contains an interesting mix of modern neighborhoods and older districts; churches and mosques; mountain and sea. Haifa is a multi-faceted city with several unique characteristics making it an attractive place to visit. From the coast, one can go up the Carmel Mountain via the cable car. Haifa also boasts many institutions devoted to culture, art and sciences: the city offers an array of festivals, activities and several types of museums.

Language

Hebrew, Arabic, and English

Electricity

The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

Entry requirements

Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas, you can refer to the link: www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.
Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country.

Communication

International access code: 00, 012, 013, 014 International dialing code: 972 Concerning national calls made in Israel, it is not necessary to dial the 972 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 972 and finally the local phone number in Israel.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Although Cambodia’s premier highlights are the spectacular temples of Angkor, there is far more to the country. In Phnom Penh, the colonial capital, there are numerous pagodas and interesting museums to visit; on the coast are beautiful unspoilt beaches and inland there is impressive natural scenery such as mighty rivers & remote forests.

Cities

Siem Reap

Back in the 1960s, Siem Reap was the place to be in Southeast Asia and saw a steady stream of the rich and famous. After three decades of slumber, it’s well and truly back and one of the most popular destinations on the planet right now. The life-support system for the temples of Angkor, Cambodia’s eighth wonder of the world, Siem Reap was always destined for great things, but few people saw them coming, this thick and this fast. It has reinvented itself as the epicenter of the new Cambodia, with more guesthouses and hotels than temples, world-class wining and dining and sumptuous spas. At its heart, Siem Reap is still a little charmer, with old French shop-houses, shady tree-lined boulevards and a slow-flowing river. But it is expanding at breakneck speed with new houses and apartments, hotels and resorts sprouting like mushrooms in the surrounding countryside. The tourist tide has arrived and locals are riding the wave. Not only is this great news for the long-suffering Khmers, but it has transformed the town into a pulsating place for visitors. Forget the naysayers who mutter into their beers about Siem Reap in the ‘old days’, now is the time to be here, although you may curse your luck when stuck behind a jam of tour buses on the way back from the temples.

Angkor

The traveler’s first glimpse of Angkor Wat, the ultimate expression of Khmer genius, is simply staggering and is matched by only a few select spots on earth such as Macchu Picchu or Petra. Angkor Wat is, quite literally, heaven on earth. Angkor is the earthly representation of Mt Meru, the Mt Olympus of the Hindu faith and the abode of ancient gods. The ‘temple that is a city’, Angkor Wat is the perfect fusion of creative ambition and spiritual devotion. The Cambodian god-kings of old each strove to better their ancestors’ structures in size, scale and symmetry, culminating in what is believed to be the world’s largest religious building, the mother of all temples, Angkor Wat. The temple is the heart and soul of Cambodia. It is the national symbol, the epicenter of Khmer civilization and a source of fierce national pride.

Phnom Penh

The glimmering spires of the royal palace, the fluttering saffron of the monks’ robes, and the luscious location on the banks of the mighty Mekong; this is one of Asia’s undiscovered gems. But it’s also a city on the move, as a new wave of investors move in, perhaps forever changing the character, and skyline, of this classic city. Phnom Penh is a crossroads of Asia’s past and present, a city of extremes of poverty and excess, of charm and chaos, but one that never fails to captivate.

Language

Khmer and English. French may also be used in some places.

Electricity

The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

Communication

International access code: 00 International dialing code: 855 Concerning national calls made in Cambodia, it is not necessary to dial the 855 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 855 and finally the local phone number in Cambodia.

Useful links

What Exotik can offer

Raiatea, considered the cradle of Polynesian civilization, is an island rich in history and culture. It is home to the famous Taputapuātea marae, a sacred site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island, surrounded by coral reefs and lagoons, offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking its lush mountains and exploring its calm waters. Raiatea is also the starting point for visiting the neighboring island of Bora Bora.