Travel to Mascow pictures

Mascow picture
Mascow picture
Mascow picture
Mascow picture
Mascow picture
Mascow picture
Mascow picture
Mascow picture
Mascow picture
Mascow picture
Mascow picture
Mascow picture
Mascow picture

Mascow picture

burj kalifa opening on 4 jan 2010

The Burj Khalifa (some of you may know it as the Burj Dubai before it was renamed Burj Khalifa) has finally opened its doors amid fanfare and fireworks. The building is the tallest man-made structure ever built, at 828 m, some 300 m taller than its nearest rival, Taiwan’s Taipei 101. It cost over US $1.5 billion to construct and has already made headlines all over the world.

The Burj Dubai was renamed Burj Khalifa as Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, announced that the name would honour the President of the UAE, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is also Ruler of Abu Dhabi.

Sheikh Khalifa had very little to do with the building BUT Abu Dhabi has rescued Dubai three times in the last twelve months, first buying $10 billion in Dubai bonds, then lending $5 billion, and on December 14 making $10 billion available for payment of immediate debts.

Not everyone is raving about the Burj khalifa with the Human Rights groups’ objections of the ill-treatment of 12000 labourers and the environmentalists protesting against the already enormous carbon footprint of Dubai. Still its a nice view if you can get all the way to the top.

Roller Coaster Apartments Project in Beihai China

Seeing these pictures made me think of a roller coaster and how the drops, twists and turns catapult the car on a track. This however, is a development project for apartments in Beihai, China. The project is being undertaken by Mad Architects, a Chinese architecture firm in Beijeng. Upon completion, this will certainly become a landmark for the city.

Roller Coaster Apartments

Roller Coaster Apartments

Roller Coaster Apartments

Roller Coaster Apartments

The One and Only Luxury Resort Hotel Reethi Rah

When it comes to luxury hotels no one does it like the One&Only resorts located in the most exotic spots around the world. The One&Only Reethi Rah in Maldives is no exception and features a seductive landscape and interior design that lets you know you are on vacation! I had the pleasure of staying at the Pamilla in Cabo San Lucas Mexico and can personally attest to the special feeling you get from the moment you wake until you shut your eyes at night. Here are some of the glamorous shots from in and around the One&Only Reethi Rah, see the entire resort as well as the rest of their resorts here.

Luxury Resort Hotel

Luxury Resort Hotel

Luxury Resort Hotel

10 Paradise Islands pictuers and info

A holiday on a remote island might be the single relaxing experience and the perfect getaway. The white smooth sand and the blue waters go great with a hammock and a refreshing cocktail. Even if you’re trying to find your the destination for your next holiday or just want to relax thinking of sunny beaches, here are 10 perfect islands you have surely dreamt about.

1. Caprera Island, Sardinia, Italy
Caprera is a small island off the coast of Sardinia, Italy, best known for its serene beaches but also being the place to which Giuseppe Garibaldi retired. The name is most likely given because of the wild goats inhabiting the island (Capra = Italian for goats). Even though it has only 6 square miles, the island has been declared a natural reserve, being the home of the royal seagull, the cormorant and the peregrine falcon. Apart from being an attractive destination for natural lovers, it also has a sailing center, the only places to stay in being couzy bungalows.

2. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is the name given to an archipelago of volcanic islands in the Aegean sea. The amazing sunsets, fantastic beaches but also the active volcano are just a few of the attractions for this destination. The islands are what remained from the volcanic explosion that split one single island into several, smaller ones. This even is said to be the inspiration for the myth of Atlantis. Be that as it may, the small islands has a wide variety of attractions, including Akrotiri, the 3,500 year old Minoan town preserved in volcanic ash.

3. Cocoa Island, Maldives
The fascinating and romantic island located in the South Male Atoll in the Maldive Islands takes pride in the white, powdery sands and the turquoise water that make it a top travel destination. The Robinson Crusoe style Island has some fascinating small huts, with deluxe furnishing and private sun decks. For total relaxation, visitors get the chance to enjoy a hydro-therapy pools, spas, massages and various treatments to pamper yourself.

4. Cousine Island, Seychelles
Cousin Island is a granitic island covering 27 hectares, close to the Praslin Island in Seychelles. In 1968, the island was purchased by Birdlife International to save the remaining warblers, thus becoming the the world’s first internationally owned-reserve. There is a large population of endemic land birds, giant tortoises, the island being a breeding ground for sea birds.The island attracts 10,000 visitors annually, being open only during weekdays (no overnigh accommodation available). The impressive number of species and habitats set in a exotic landscape make the destination a unique travel experience especially for nature lovers.

5. Capri, Italy
Known in Greek mythology for being the isle of the sirens, the Capri island is known since the days of the Roman Republic. There are several art festivals from April to September that appeals to tourists: you can see anything from painting, sculptures to plays and traditional dances being performed. one of the most appealing attractions is the Blue Grotto, a cave at the water’s edge, opening to the sea that Romans used as a bath. One of the most sought after sights is the colorful sunrise, that’s certainly worth waking up for.

6. Kauai, Hawaii
One of the oldest of Hawaii’s islands, Kauai is referred to as the Garden Island, due to its lugh vegetation made out of tropical plants. Erosion lead to exciting landscapes such as Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast. Formed around 6 million years ago, Kauai is more laidback and less populated than the other Hawaiian islands. There are plenty of activities to choose from, including golf, horseback riding and various water sports. Be sure to take plenty of time to explore the multitude of landscapes and attractions.

7. South Beach, Miami, Florida
Probably one of the best known beaches on the list, South Beach is a vibrant place that never sleeps. Hundreds of nightclubs, restaurants and hotels attract both American and international tourists every summer. One of the busiest times of the year especially for the Pearl and Nikki Beach night spots is Spring Break, when students come to relax and party. South Beach can satisfy a variety of culinary preferences, with numerous restaurants. The city is also home to various cultural events, art exhitibitions and conventions that you might enjoy while visiting.

8. Ihuru Island, Maldives
Set in the unspoiled natural beauty of the Maldives,the Ihuru is the stylish paradise ideal for total relaxation. White beaches, a shallow lagooon and shady palm trees make the Ihuru Island the lost paradise waiting to be rediscovered. The reef are perfect for snorkelling, scuba diving and but also surface water sports. Ihuru is one of the most environmentally conscious islands, using biodegradable materials, solar heating or environmental friendly methods for reactivating corals.

9. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora island is possibly the single most famous island in all the world. The volcanic island has a stunning lagoon with abundant underwater life waiting to be explored. A multitude of outdoor activies are available for tourists: underwater safari, water sports, jeep tours, horseback riding or kiteboarding. Convince yourself why Bora Bora one of the world’s most beautiful places!

10. The Similan Islands, Thailand
Located in Southern Thailand, the Similan Islands is a national park convering 140 square kilometers, encompassing 9 islands. One of the most attractive sights is the enormous variety of fish and corals, easily spotted due to the transparent waters. Apart from that, the island has everything needed to be considered an exotic paradise.

The World Islands Dubai for sell

Another pioneering one of a kind project by master developer Nakheel and a fantastic vision for Dubai real estate as a whole. This is an exclusive VIP high end luxury development that features 300 man made islands just off the coast of Dubai next to Palm Jumeirah. It took 386 million tonnes of rock to form the foundations of this project to build the World Islands which have 382 Kilometres of coastline that has been artificially created to form the land on which these Villas and Apartments will be based on having 27 Kilometres of breakwater as protection and boat access to and from Dubai as well as mooring facilities for residents who will be lucky enough to live there. If you are looking to buy an apartment or villa on this ultra luxurious project we can help you.

While there is no shortage of ultra luxury property in Dubai, the World Islands, another ambitious engineering feat from developer Nakheel Properties, are in a completely different league. The World is a development of 300 islands of varying size that are available for freehold purchase by property investors that can afford a very high price tag. The majority of these islands have already been sold such as Ireland, England, Thailand; however, there are still a few available if several million dollars seems like a bargain. The World Islands Dubai are expensive and this hefty price tag does not include any construction on the islands as this is the responsibility of the buyer or developer , but the opportunity of owning a whole island is obviously appealing to the super rich.

There have been several high profile investors associated with the World Islands, including Virgin Chairman Richard Branson and Angelina Jolie, but the majority of these individual freehold properties are expected to be tourist attractions, hotels and possibly timeshare. A number of resorts have already been announced, with access possible only by seaplane or boat. There are also a number of alternative tourist attractions expected from investment groups that have purchased islands, but there will no doubt be some residential properties as well. As a Dubai freehold development, the World Islands are expected to bring even more attention to the Emirate of the U.A.E. recognised for the Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali and Burj Dubai, putting Dubai on the map as a global destination for property investors.

Sell The World Islands:

We are actively looking for landlords and owners who wish to sell their Dubai World Islands quickly and easy for the best premiums. If you have a villa or an apartment that you would like us to offer to our investors please do email is now and we will get you the best price on the market with cash buyers!

Buy The World Islands:

Our expert team of agents will guide you through the whole buying process of Dubai Property and take all the stress away from you. Whatever you budget we have something that suits your needs from studios right through to luxury villas.

For the best deals of any kind of freehold property in the Dubai Property market, get in touch with the experts and contact us now.

New Zealand's famous Bay of Islands Rich In History And Marine Life

Swim with the dolphins or watch the whales at play in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand. A great holiday spot all the year round. Why not take a break in New Zealand's Bay of Islands - an area rich in history and marine life. The 144 islands are a haven for holiday makers who enjoy sea activities and the beauty of the un crowded sub-tropical sandy beaches and native forests. It is also an area of considerable historical significance and is popular with craftspeople. It is the cradle of European civilisation in New Zealand and has fine examples of Maori culture for you to experience.

Wherever you are in the Bay of Islands, it’s impossible to escape the lure of the sea. There are almost endless opportunities for immersing yourself in the blue-green world of island and beach. Charter a yacht or launch. Dive or snorkel. Paddle a sea kayak in and out of the islands’ nooks and crannies. Swim with dolphins.

Many people come to the Bay of Islands with marlin in mind. Zane Grey, the great American western writer and big game fisherman, pitched a tent and caught his first marlin here in 1926. He made sure the world heard about it! Today enthusiasts come from all over the globe in pursuit of marlin, broad bills and game sharks. You can take part in keenly contested tournaments or hire a boat and fight your own private battles with the denizens of the deep. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular and can only be fully appreciated by cruising through the area.

The Maritime Park is a natural wonderland with an abundance of wildlife including marlin, whales, penguins, dolphins, gannets and many other species.

Average daily temperatures range from 26.8 C/80 F in summer to 16 C/61 F in winter.

Historical Background

In 1769, the English explorer Captain James Cook dropped anchor in the Bay of Islands and set the wheels in motion for its settlement by the English. It was Cook who named the place Bay of Islands and it was here that English settlers first set up home in the Land of the Long White Cloud. The birth of New Zealand nationhood is traced back to 1840 Waitangi when Maori tribal leaders and the English colonisers forged a treaty which despite some flaws remains a watershed document for uniting New Zealand's various peoples into one common nation. After the Treaty, the British established Russell as the nation's capital, which later moved south to Auckland, then farther south to Wellington.

A Maori settlement
Russell was an established settlement of the Maori people long before the arrival of Captain Cook and the sailing ship 'Endeavour' in 1769. Its Maori name was Kororareka which comes from a legend about a wounded Maori chief who asked for penguin and on tasting the broth said, 'Ka reka ko korora' (how sweet is the penguin).

The Whalers
From the early 1800s South Sea Whalers found Kororareka an ideal port to collect provisions, The town grew as more and more ships landed there but soon it gained a reputation as a lawless and bawdy port, earning the nickname 'Hellhole of the Pacific'. Deserting seamen, runaway convicts, grog sellers and prostitutes all made their homes there. The whalers bartered muskets for food and this encouraged the local Maori Chief Hongi Hika and the northern Maori to instigate local inter-tribal warfare.

The Missionaries
After the whalers the missionaries arrived. The first mission station was set up by the Reverend Samuel Marsden in 1815. In 1819, at the invitation of the Maori Chief Hongi Hika, he established the second mission station at Kerikeri. The first Roman Catholic mission was set up by Bishop Pompallier in Russell in 1839.

First British Official Resident
James Busby arrived in Paihia in 1833 as the official British Resident sent out from England. He was expected to protect the traders and settlers, prevent outrages against Maori, capture convicts, and encourage the Maori chiefs to keep order.

Busby settled with his wife and children in a house built at Waitangi from a wooden frame shipped over from Sydney. At this time there were around 1000 settlers in the Bay.

First British Governor
On 29 January 1840 Captain William Hobson arrived having been appointed the Lt Governor of New Zealand. His job was to make a treaty with the Maori chiefs. Busby's position as British Resident ceased, but he continued to assist Hobson and he also prepared the English draft of the Treaty of Waitangi for Hobson's consideration.

The Treaty of Waitangi

The Treaty was signed on February 6, 1840, outside the home of James Busby by forty six Maori chiefs and later over 450 Maori leaders around the country added their mark to the agreement.

The Treaty House

Busby's house, now known as the Treaty House is open to the public daily. In 1844, only four years later, Hone Heke, together with another chief Kawiti, showed their displeasure by chopping down the British flagstaff at Maiki Hill in Russell. Skirmishes between the Maori and Europeans have continued in various forms. Today the Government is currently working on the settlement of land claims and fishing rights which have been disputed since the original Treaty.

Exploring places full of history

Waitangi National Reserve
Just a few kilometres north of the town is the historic Waitangi National Reserve. If you are interested in history, this is the ideal place to visit. Start your tour at the Visitor Centre where you can view a video outlining the events surrounding the Treaty of Waitangi.

You can then walk around the extensive grounds visiting the Treaty House, the Maori Meeting House and the Maori War Canoe.

The Treaty House, one of New Zealand's oldest surviving buildings, fell into disrepair after the Busby family left in the 1870s. It was not until 1932, when Lord Bledisloe bought the house and grounds and gifted it to the nation, that it was restored and rebuilt to its present standard.

If you have time you can take a stroll around the reserve which includes recreational areas, tidal estuary, mangrove forest, open coastline and native bush. It's a most enjoyable way to spend a few hours.

Russell
If you are not keen on walking why not take a mini bus tour which leaves from the Russell Wharf and visits some of the places more difficult to visit on foot - Maiki Hill where the flagstaff was cut down four times by Honi Heke is a bit of a climb if you are short of puff !!

For those who like to do their own thing first visit the Visitors Centre along the waterfront. It is also the headquarters of the Bay of Islands Maritime and Historic Park which looks after more than 50 reserves in the area. The building was previously the site of Russell's post office and courthouse from 1875-1969. At the centre pick up a leaflet on local heritage trails and then you can work out what you want to visit and how to get there.

Don't forget to see Christ Church - the oldest existing church in New Zealand, built in 1836 and still showing some of the old musket ball holes from the early wars.

Pompallier House is just further along from the information centre. Built in 1942, it was used as a printery of the Roman Catholic Mission and later a tannery and private home.

For lunch, try the Duke of Marlborough also on the waterfront. This is the fourth hotel on the same site (earlier ones were burnt down) It holds New Zealand's number 1 licence dated August 1827. They serve wonderful fish meals so fresh and tasty - it just melts in your mouth

Kemp House and Maori village
Next door to the store is Kemp House built for the Rev. John Butler in 1822 after the Rev. Samuel Marsden established his second mission station in Kerikeri in 1819. The tour also takes you to a reconstructed Maori village and the Waitangi Treaty House. In the afternoon you are taken to many of the craft workshops in the area - lots of good ideas for presents and souvenirs of good quality.

Outdoor Activities
The Bay of Islands is the finest Maritime Park in New Zealand with 144 islands, secluded bays and an abundance of marine life. There is much to offer visitors all the year round. From sailing, fishing, snorkeling, swimming to golfing walking, eating out - it's all there. These islands comprise the archipelago of small islands in the Bay of Islands. Most of them are uninhabited by man, many are still unexplored. About the only island which has some facilities is Urupukapuka Island lying northeast of Russell. There are some 40 sites on the islands which are part of the Bay of Islands Maritime and Historic Park. Its visitor information centre is at Russell. These islands may have marked walks, Maori pas and other historical sites, as well as recreation reserves.

Swim with the dolphins
Why not take a swim with the dolphins ? This is the ultimate marine mammal experience. You are taken out by fast catamaran which has been purpose built for dolphin and whale watching.

Underwater cameras provide unique viewing of the marine life which is displayed on a large TV monitor. Wet suits, snorkels and fins are supplied when and if you are ready to get into the water - and when you return you can hop into a hot shower !! The trip takes around four hours and leaves twice daily in summer and morning only in winter. It could be your experience of a lifetime!!

The Cream Trip
For those of us who are not so adventurous a leisurely cruise could be a good alternative. The Cream Trip meanders in and out of many of the smaller bays, calling on locals and delivering their stores and Royal Mail as it has done for over 100 years. The trip passes many different points of historical interest relating to both early European and Maori settlement. You may also see seals, dolphins and sometimes whales, as well as bird and fish life. The trip takes about five hours and I can personally recommend it, especially as this is one of the few official Royal Mail runs by boat left in New Zealand.

A choice of ways to get there
Air New Zealand operates flights to Bay of Islands airport (kerikeri) daily with connecting flights from all other major centres. If you prefer to take a coach tour many operators have tours of different lengths to many different places - just make sure you choose one that includes the Bay of Islands. Some operators have one, two or three day tours from Auckland just to the area. You can also take an express coach from Auckland - the Northliner or Intercity and do your own thing when you arrive. If you don't mind driving why not hire a car or campervan? The Bay of Islands is only three hours drive north from Auckland and then you will have your own transport for getting around. How to get there

Other Major Towns in the Bay of Islands Region

Paihia - Tourist centre for the Bay's activities, tours, cruises, motels, souvenir shops, restaurants, etc. all centrally located. Paihia is the main visitor centre for the Bay of Islands and is the starting point for many sightseeing cruises including the Cape Brett Hole-in-the-Rock cruise, boat hires, diving and swimming with the dolphins excursions. A popular day excursion is the Cape Reinga trip to the northernmost point of New Zealand and features an exhilarating drive along Ninety Mile Beach. Paihia remained isolated until the second world war. A road via Opua opened Paihia to people who didn't have boats. It quickly established itself as the most popular seaside resort in the north. From it's hard earned beginning, Paihia is now the main centre for the Bay of Islands. Adventure activities, sightseeing, cafes, bars and accommodation are all here. Whether you want to jump out of the sky, dive under the ocean or explore the shore, Paihia can point you in the right direction.

Waitangi - Where the British and Maori signed the 1840 Treaty. Waitangi is within walking distance of Paihia, and it is here that the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, joining the Maori and British peoples together as a nation. The Treaty House is now a museum and is part of the Waitangi Reserve, along with a Maori meeting house and an impressive 120 feet (37 metre) 150-man canoe launched each Waitangi Day (February 6) - New Zealand's national day.
Gifted to the Nation by Lord and Lady Bledisloe in 1932, The Waitangi National Trust Treaty Grounds is a unique and fascinating insight into New Zealand's historic past. The Treaty of Waitangi, signed here in 1840 between the Maori Chiefs and British Crown, became the basis for life in New Zealand as we know it today. Visit the historic Treaty House, fully carved Maori Meeting House, Maori War Canoe and Exhibition. Experience the award winning Sound/Light display in the Meeting House, enjoy the magnificent park like grounds with their abundant native bird life, heritage trees and wonderful Bay views. Learn all about the signing of the Treaty and select from our range of quality souvenirs.

Kerikeri - Largest town commercial and business centre, Fruits & produce, arts and crafts, historic basin. A charming place to live. Kerikeri is a picturesque inlet on the northern extremity of the Bay, set amidst citrus and kiwifruit orchards. The district also bears some important historical buildings and has several craft galleries. Kerikeri is noted for its arts and crafts and has an Art &Craft Trail to add further interest to your stay. The town has excellent sporting facilities, a championship golf course, all-weather tennis court, a yacht club and numerous intimate restaurants and cafes. A wide variety of accommodation styles ensure your stay is comfortable and today's Kerikeri is the bustling business and commerce centre of the Bay of Islands. An extensive array of shops and services, including the only cinema in the area, will cater for all your requirements. Kerikeri is where New Zealand bicultural society began and its beautiful scenery, charm and historic basin will entice you.

Opua - Recreational port and gateway to the Bay of Islands. Where two rivers meet and the bay stretches northward to the sea. What a view! The gateway to the Bay of Islands. Located where the Kawakawa River and Waikeri River meet with the Bay stretching out Northward to the sea. You can see the passenger ferry 5 km down the bay going between Paihia and Russell.Waitangi is just beyond Paihia and the entrance to the Kerikeri River is viewed near the North end of the bay. Here is where the overseas yachts first arrive in New Zealand after making their South Pacific Ocean crossing. The charter sailboats are based here that cruise through the bay. The Tucker Thompson a top sail schooner and other cruise boats start out on there daily excursions from the Opua Port. During the Year a few cruise ships visit this hide away port. The car ferry takes vehicles across the port to Okiato and the road to Russell.

The Coastal Walking Path starts in Opua the Harrison Scenic Reserve (rain forest) is a twenty minute walk and the scenic trip to Paihia takes three Hours. (a 5 km trip by road, 10 minutes by car) The community of Opua is small and centered around its international recreational Port, Marina and the Wharf (fishing is permitted). There are three charter boat companies and several independent operators. There is a good restaurant and take-a-way, small convenience store , Port operations office and the Post Office is small, friendly and efficient. There is a small boat launching ramp and a dingy dock. There are two boat yards, sail repair, engine shop and other supporting services making Opua a surprisingly good place to work on your boat. Yacht moorings are available for short or long term rental. The Opua Cruising Club is a local center of social activity in this provincial community. A new 240 berth marina provides dockage for local and overseas vessels.

Haruru Falls

Haruru means “big noise”, which is a good indication that these falls are worth seeing. The water falls in a horseshoe shape – very rare and quite spectacular – and Maori legend states that a taniwha (water monster) lives in the lagoon below. You can walk to Haruru Falls along the Waitangi walking track, or drive to Haruru Falls township – which is only 3 kilometres from Paihia. In the 1800s, there were over 100 Maori villages along the Haruru Falls river.

Kawakawa
Gateway to the Bay of Islands, Kawakawa is marked by its unique entrance sign, an arch constructed in the style of Frederick Hundertwasser. Kawakawa is home to the famous Hundertwasser designed public toilets - a definite must on your itinerary. This is the only building in the Southern Hemisphere designed by Austrian artist Hundertwasser and is the last building he designed before he died in 1999. Also visit the Museum in the old Memorial Library (open Thursdays & Fridays) for a glimpse of Kawakawa's coal mining history.

The railway line running through the centre of town to Opua is a remnant of those times. Unfortunately major maintenance requirements mean that regular trips to Opua by Gabriel, the renowned steam train, will not be taking place at present, however the station is open and welcomes visitors. Visit also the Kawiti Glow-worm Caves at Waiomio which boast a galaxy of glow-worm lights, pure white limestone formations and 12 generations of history.

buj kalifa opening cermoney

buj kalifa opening cermoney

Travel to dubai

Oh, Dubai. Sometimes we wish you success, because you’re so funny. Other times we can’t wait till you run out of oil and just turn back into a desert wasteland, because you’re so gross.

Of late, the Gulf city-state has been trending somewhere between those two courses. They’ve shut down all kinds of massive half-baked construction projects, but are pushing ahead on a select few. Most notable in the “pushing ahead” category are the world’s tallest building and the city’s new metro system (exempted on the “half-baked” count). The powers that be in Dubai have been planning a grand simultaneous unveiling of the two in September, in fact — seeing it as a perfect opportunity to get massive amounts of media attention and declare to the world, “We’re still actin’ all rich!”

Sadly, there’s a hitch. Construction on the Burj Dubai, the 206-story luxury residential and office tower–space will supposedly go for $3,500/square foot and up–is running behind schedule, and will not be complete by September. So the metro–which features a “Gold class” section for “VIPs”–will debut alone and therefor won’t get anywhere close to as much media attention.

It turns out that Dubaites (?) are pretty upset about it. Nearly half “believe the delay to the Burj Dubai is a missed opportunity to put Dubai back on the global map.” An additional 17 percent are sad because Dubai now looks like the kind of slacker place that can’t keep to a schedule when building white elephant projects.

To celebrate the synergy that might have been though, here are some fact boxes and photos of the $4 billion, 2,600-foot aluminum stalagmite and the $4 billion, 22-mile first phase of the new metro system.

Dubai Metro

Fast facts:

• “In full operation, Dubai Metro is projected to carry approximately 1.2 million passengers on an average day, and 355 million passengers per year”
• “Trains will be WiFi enabled”
• “The 32.5 mile Red Line [which will open in September] will have 29 stations, four of which will be underground”
• “Rolling stock is being supplied by Kinki Sharyo under a $456.2m contract for 385 cars”
• “All stations will have platform doors to increase safety and allow a more comfortable, climate controlled environment”
• “The driverless, fully automated trains are fully air-conditioned”
• “The trains will offer standard ‘Silver’ class, a women and children only section plus a first class ‘Gold’ section for VIPs”
• The “Gold” car will be located at front of each train and will be just for men (specifically, non-poor men). The “Silver” cars for the ladies and the rugrats and the downtrodden will follow behind.
• Gold cars will feature wide leather seats, an explansive view through the train’s front window, and an “exclusive lighting design.”

[Quotes from]

Photos:

Transit construction, Dubai-style:

[Pic: MomentaryAwe.com]

.

Like Paris, Dubai’s Metro stations will have platform doors:

.Inside a “Silver” car (i.e. for pleebs, women and children):

Inside an exclusive “Gold” car (just us rich dudes!):

A train on a viaduct:

.

The rolling stock (fancy talk for “train cars”) arrives from Japan:

A design rendering of a station hub:

.That station in real life:

.A rendering of a smaller station:

.A system map. Service to the crazy man-made archipelagos is still on the drawing board:

.

Burj Dubai tower:

Fast facts:

• “The foundation is made up of 192 concrete and steel pilings more than 164 feet (50 meters) deep. They are joined by a 12-foot-thick raft upon which the skyscraper rests.”
• “45,000 cubic meters of concrete was used in the foundation.”
• Underground parking spaces: 16,000
• “The air conditioning chillers installed on the 155th and 159th floor are so high that their design had to take into account the thinner air at that elevation.”
• In 2006, 2,500 construction workers rioted because of low pay and poor treatment. They did an estimated $1 million damage.
• The tower is designed Adrian Smith of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill
• “The interior will be decorated by Giorgio Armani. An Armani Hotel, the first of four by Armani, will occupy the lower 37 floors”
• “In keeping with Islamic custom, the hotel pool will have separate hours for women and men at the pool.”

Photos:

Scale: Those little buildings on either side are all really, really big

.

And from afar:

.

An elevator shaft, taken at an earlier stage of construction:

.

The work continues, up top:

.

View from the bottom:

.

Working construction on the Burj — the wages are crappy, but you can’t beat the view: