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Frequently Asked Questions

Travelers Forum

Do I need a visa?

Visa requirements for entering Dubai vary greatly between different nationalities and it is always advised to check regulations before traveling.  In most cases, US Passport holders can obtain a visa upon arrival.

What is the local currency?

Arab Emirates Dirhams (AED or Dh)

Do they speak English in Dubai?

The official language is Arabic, Arabic and English are commonly used in business and commerce. Hindi and Urdu are also widely used.

How long does it take to fly to Dubai?

From JFK to Dubai, the flying time is 12 hours and 45 minutes.

What are the business hours in Dubai?

Banks:          Sunday – Thursday 8.00am – 1.00pm
Shopping Malls: Saturday – Thursday 10.00am – 10.00pm;  Friday – 4.00pm – 10.00pm
Souks:          Saturday – Thursday 10.00am – 1.00pm and 4.00pm – 10.00pm;  Friday – 4.00pm – 2.30pm

What are the duty free allowances?

Duty Free Allowances include the following:

Cigarettes: 400
Cigars: 2 kilograms
Tobacco: 2 kilograms
Liquor: 2 liters of spirits OR 2 liters of wine for personal consumptional

Will I have internet and cell phone access in Dubai?

GSM services are available and the mobile phone code within the UAE is 050. “Speak Easy” is a GSM mobile service for those visitors and tourists who cannot use their own mobile phones in the UAE. You can either buy a new mobile phone and purchase a temporary SIM card or use your own handset with a temporary card. Contact ETISALAT for details.
Most five-star hotels offer guests internet access. Email cheap rates are from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. At the time of writing public internet access kiosks were being established in the UAE, initially at the major airports. The minimum charge for public access is Dh2 and 60 fils per minute. Payment can be made by credit card.
If you have brought your laptop with you, along with a modem and browsing software, you can dial 500 5333 to get connected to the internet. A charge of 15 fils per minute is billed to the telephone to which you are connected.

What is shopping like in Dubai?

Many of the world’s finest goods are available at prices well below what you would pay in other countries. Tax-free open market means bargains galore. Bargaining is commonly practiced and recommended particularly in the souks.

Traditional souvenirs include Arabian coffee pots, silver and brass swords or khanjars, silver and wooden miniature dhows, Arabic chests, soapstone figures, antique silver jewelry, Persian carpets and gold jewelry.

What should I pack?

Lightweight summer clothing is suitable for most of the year in cotton or cotton mix is ideal.  Good quality sunglasses; hat and sunblock.  A sweater or jacket may be needed January – March (especially in the evenings).

Do I need any special vaccinations to travel to Dubai?

No special immunizations are required, however it would be wise to check beforehand if you are traveling from a health-risk area. Tetanus inoculations are usually recommended if you are considering a long trip. Polio has been virtually eradicated in the UAE and hepatitis is very rare and can be avoided by taking precautions. Hepatitis A is transmitted by contaminated food and water, Hepatitis B, C, D through sexual contact, the use of unsterilized needles and blood transfusions.

What is the main religion in Dubai?

Islam is the official religion and there are a large number of mosques throughout the city.  Other religions are respected and there are various places of worship including churches and temples.

Do I need to tip?

Tax and service charge are usually included in the bills, otherwise a 5-10% tip is adequate. Airport and hotel porters 2-3 US Dollars depending on the amount of luggage.

What happens during Ramadan?

The Holy month of Ramadan is when Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Holy Koran.  During this period, all Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset.  Eating, drinking and smoking in public areas during daylight hours is strictly prohibited, however hotels restaurants can accommodate tourists in covered tented areas.

Can I consume alcohol in Dubai?

Wide choices of excellent wines, beers and spirits are available in licensed restaurants and bars.  Dubai has several laws regarding alcohol which tourists should be aware of before visiting:
Alcohol is only available at licensed premises, usually attached to hotels (most nightclubs and bars are in or attached to hotels, though they may have separate entrances).
Alcohol is not sold on religious holidays, nor during daylight hours in Ramadan (even to non-Muslims).
It is illegal to drink alcohol in public places
Remember to carry some sort of identification when visiting a bar if you are young, as you will not be let in otherwise. The law prohibits anyone below 21 to enter.

What type of food is available at the restaurants?

Dubai restaurants & hotels offer a remarkably diverse range of food and beverage outlets.  Other than traditional Arabic cuisine, there is a wide choice of British, Chinese, Filipino, French, German, Greek, Indian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mediterranean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swiss and Thai. The traditional food of the Emirates has always been rice, fish and meat.  Some of the most popular include Harees, Machboos and Fareed:

b>Harees is a simple dish created with small pieces of meat, cracked wheat and water.  The meat, wheat and water are placed in a large mud pot and cooked slowly until the meat is tender.  The ingredients are then blended together until it has a thick porridge like consistency
Machboos is a dish made of rice, onions and meat which are seasoned with spices, salt and dried lemons.  Simmered until all the meat is very tender, when rice is added and returned to cook for up to 2 hours.
Fareed is a meet and vegetable stew poured over a bed of very thin bread and served immediately.

Can I use American appliances in Dubai?

Voltage used in the UAE is 220V.  Most sockets are 3-pin, although adaptors for 2-pin plugs are available at most hotels.

Can I drink the water in Dubai?

Water is usually produced by desalination so it is normally safe to drink, nevertheless you may prefer the taste of bottled water. In any case it is advisable to drink plenty of water in the heat so carry a bottle with you at all times.

What is the weather like in Dubai?

The line of the Tropic of Cancer crosses through the UAE, causing the weather in Dubai to be warm and sunny in the winter, with an average daytime temperature of 25 degrees c, nearer the coat 12-15 degrees c, in the desert or mountains 5 degrees c. With the nights being relatively cool. Near coastal areas humidity can average between 50% and 60%.

In the summer, the weather in Dubai is very hot and humid, with temperatures reaching mid 40’s. Even the sea temperature can reach 37 degrees c, with humidity averaging over 90%.

Rainfall in Dubai is infrequent and does not last for a long period. It mostly rains during the winter period in the form of short gushes and an occasional thunderstorm. On average, rain falls only five days a year.

Is the water in Tahiti potable?

Tap water in the hotels and restaurants is safe to drink. Local mineral waters and all sorts of French mineral waters are available.

What clothes should I pack?

Comfortable and cool, natural fabrics such as cotton sundresses or T-shirts are perfect for daytime wear. The standard attire for men even at dinner is simply pants and shirt. Women usually wear comfortable dresses in the evenings and normal resort wear around the hotels. Bathing suits and short shorts are also out of place in the town of Papeete.

How far in advance should I book?

Tahiti is a popular destination for romance, rejuvenation and special celebrations. Honeymoon season is from July—September and you’ll find that you’ll need to plan in advance if traveling during this time. October—November is also a busy time. Certain travel periods offer the best specials including free breakfast and dinner during your stay—ask us for details on our exciting bonus offers.

What is the weather like; when should I travel?

Tahiti temperatures average about 79 degrees (F) year around, both the air temperature and the water temperature. Tahiti is a tropical destination blessed with lots of Sun and enough rain to keep the waterfalls flowing and the flowers blooming! Summer is from November through April, when the climate is slightly warmer and more humid. Winter is from May through October, when the the climate is slightly cooler and dryer.

What documentation do I need for Tahiti?

To return to the US you need a valid passport. To enter Tahiti you need a passport valid for at least six months after the date of your departure, and a return air ticket. To enter Tahiti you need a visit visa, which is issued on arrival if you are a US citizen. Getting a passport is your own responsibility.

How long should I spend in Tahiti?

Most people find that a week to ten days is the right amount of time if Tahiti is your sole destination, but if a stopover is all you can swing, 3 nights is the average.

I lose a day?

No, unlike Fiji, New Zealand and Australia, Tahiti is on the US side of the international dateline. If you travel beyond Tahiti you will ‘lose’ a day outbound and regain it inbound.

How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Papeete?

7 hours non-stop, or, as we like to say: Two good meals you don’t have to cook yourself, all the fine wines and liqueurs you care for, and unlimited free movies. Seriously, by the time you have cocktails, eat, relax with a book or a movie, sleep and eat again; you’re there. Your vacation starts at take off.

How much does a trip to Tahiti cost?

Tahiti is an amazing destination of azure seas and jutting mountain ranges and staying in an Overwater bungalow is something everybody should experience. Meals and accommodation do make Tahiti more expensive than most other South Pacific destinations, but in comparison to other exotic locales around the world—it is comparable. Tahiti’s currency is mainly Euro and this also helps to create a more expensive trip. We will work with you and your budget to ensure you get the experience you desire at the price you can afford. 

Is the water in Vanuatu potable?

What clothes should I pack?

How far in advance should I book?

As far as possible to avoid disappointment at sought after properties. A $300 deposit will allow us to confirm services and hold your reservation until final payment is due. We’ll supply complete Terms and Conditions with your Quotation.

What is the weather like; when should I travel?

What documentation do I need for Vanuatu?

To return to the US you need a valid passport. For stays not exceeding 30 days, US passport holders do not require a visa to enter Vanuatu. To enter Vanuatu you need a passport valid for at least six months after the date of your departure, and a return air ticket. Getting a passport is your own responsibility.

How long should I spend in Vanuatu?

I lose a day?

If you travel to Vanuatu you will ‘lose’ a day outbound and regain it inbound due to crossing the international dateline.

How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Port Vila?

13 hours, or, as we like to say: Two good meals you don’t have to cook yourself, all the fine wines and liqueurs you care for, and unlimited free movies. Seriously, by the time you have cocktails, eat, relax with a book or a movie, sleep and eat again; you’re there. Your vacation starts at take off.

How much does a trip to Vanuatu cost?

That’s about as difficult as answering how much your house remodel will cost—it all depends on what you plan to do. But if you just want a general idea, look at our packages.

Is the water in the Cooks potable?

Tap water in the hotels and restaurants is safe to drink.

What clothes should I pack?

Comfortable and cool, natural fabrics such as cotton sundresses or T-shirts are perfect for daytime wear. The standard attire for men even at dinner is simply pants and shirt. Women usually wear comfortable dresses in the evenings and normal resort wear around the hotels. Bathing suits and short shorts are also out of place in Rarotonga.

How far in advance should I book?

As far as possible to avoid disappointment at sought after properties. A $300 deposit will allow us to confirm services and hold your reservation until final payment is due. We’ll supply complete Terms and Conditions with your Quotation.

What is the weather like; when should I travel?

The Cooks weather is distinctly tropical. Overall, temperatures between November and April (summer) are higher than in the winter months of May to October, as are the humidity and tropical downpours. Light cotton clothes are advisable at all times.

What documentation do I need for the Cooks?

To return to the US you need a valid passport. To enter the Cooks you need a passport valid for at least six months after the date of your departure, and a return air ticket. To enter the Cooks you need a visit visa, which is issued on arrival if you are a US citizen. Getting a passport is your own responsibility.

How long should I spend in the Cooks?

Most people find that a week to ten days is the right amount of time if the Cooks are your sole destination, but if a stopover is all you can swing, 3 nights is the average.

I lose a day?

No, unlike Fiji, New Zealand and Australia, the Cooks are on the US side of the international dateline. If you travel beyond the Cooks you will ‘lose’ a day outbound and regain it inbound.

How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Rarotonga?

10 hours, or, as we like to say: Two good meals you don’t have to cook yourself, all the fine wines and liqueurs you care for, and unlimited free movies. Seriously, by the time you have cocktails, eat, relax with a book or a movie, sleep and eat again; you’re there. Your vacation starts at take off.

How much does a trip to the Cooks cost?

That’s about as difficult as answering how much your house remodel will cost—it all depends on what you plan to do. But if you just want a general idea, look at our packages.

Is the water in Fiji potable?

On the main islands it is, and on the smaller islands, if necessary, the resorts will provide you with bottled water.

What clothes should I pack?

Fiji is a casual country, which is reflected in the locals’ attire. To visit a village you will need to cover your shoulders and your legs (no tanktops or shorts) as a sign of respect. We provide you with a packing list with your final documentation.

How far in advance should I book?

As far as possible to avoid disappointment at sought after properties. A $300 deposit will allow us to confirm services and hold your reservation until final payment is due. We’ll supply complete Terms and Conditions with your Quotation.

What is the weather like; when should I travel?

Fiji weather is distinctly tropical. Overall, temperatures between November and April (summer) are slightly higher than in the winter months of May to October, as are the humidity and tropical downpours. Light cotton clothes are advisable at all times—only between May and October will a light sweater be needed for nights and early mornings.

What documentation do I need for Fiji?

To return to the US you need a valid passport. To enter Fiji you need a passport valid for at least six months after the date of your departure. To enter Fiji you need a visit visa, which is issued on arrival if you are a US citizen. Getting a passport is your own responsibility.

How long should I spend in Fiji?

Most people find that a week to ten days is the right amount of time if Fiji is your sole destination, but if a stopover is all you can swing, 3 nights is the average

I lose a day?

On the way to Fiji you’ll skip a day on the calendar when you cross the dateline, but the reverse happens on the way back so you really haven’t lost anything. Here’s how it works: If you leave the US on a Monday evening, you’ll arrive in Fiji on Wednesday morning. If you leave Fiji on a Monday you’ll arrive back in the US on Monday, the same day.

How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Nadi?

10 hours non-stop, or, as we like to say: Two good meals you don’t have to cook yourself, all the fine wines and liqueurs you care for, and unlimited free movies. Seriously, by the time you have cocktails, eat, relax with a book or a movie, sleep and eat again, you’re there. Your vacation starts at take off.

How much does a trip to Fiji cost?

That’s about as difficult as answering how much your house remodel will cost—it all depends on what you plan to do. But if you just want a general idea, look at our packages, which are valid pretty much all year round.

What is a ‘Kiwi’?

The kiwi, New Zealand’s national emblem, is a flightless bird with hair-like feathers and a long, slender bill, which it uses to pull worms and insects out of the ground. Found only in New Zealand, it is active at night in the wilderness areas of the country. Be sure to visit one of the many kiwi houses where you can watch them under special ‘nocturnal’ lighting.

New Zealanders often refer to themselves as Kiwis, and the term is also used as a short form for the famous kiwifruit. On the stock exchange, the New Zealand Dollar is also referred to as ‘the kiwi’.

What is a Farm Stay?

Farmstays are an ideal way to get to meet local people and experience a slice of New Zealand rural life. Depending on the kind of farm, you may get the chance to share home cooked meals with your hosts and join in with milking cows, shearing sheep, lambing, kiwifruit harvesting or whatever else is happening on the farm.

What is the weather like, when should I travel?

New Zealand’s seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere. New Zealand has four quite distinct seasons: Spring (Sept-Nov), Summer (Dec-Feb), Autumn/Fall (Mar-May) and Winter (June-Aug). In summer there’s plenty of sunshine, and activities in and around the water include rafting, snorkeling, diving and kayaking. You’ll find snow on the mountains in winter and excellent skiing. Away from the mountains, New Zealand winters are mild and temperatures generally do not fall below freezing.

New Zealand Average Temperatures

What clothes should I pack?

New Zealand is a casual outdoorsy country, which is reflected in the locals’ attire. To be prepared for any weather, use the layer system. Wear a t-shirt, but carry a fleece and lightweight waterproof jacket in a daypack so you’re ready for all conditions. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. We provide you with a packing list with your final documentation.

How far in advance should I book?

New Zealand is a very popular destination and free-wheeling is only recommended in the low season from May - October. Book as far as possible to avoid disappointment at sought after properties. A $300 deposit will allow us to confirm services and hold your reservation until final payment is due. We’ll supply complete Terms and Conditions with your Quotation.

What documentation do I need for New Zealand?

All visitors to New Zealand must carry a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the date you intend to leave the country. Most visitors who intend to stay for less than three months do not require a visa. If you want to stay longer than three months, or your country of origin does not have a visa waiver agreement with New Zealand, then you will need to apply for a Visitor’s Visa.

How long should I spend in New Zealand?

Most people find that 2 weeks is the right amount of time to visit both Islands. If you have more time, you’ll see more.

I lose a day?

On the way to New Zealand you’ll skip a day on the calendar when you cross the dateline, but the reverse happens on the way back so you really haven’t lost anything. Here’s how it works: If you leave the US on a Monday evening, you’ll arrive in New Zealand on Wednesday morning. If you leave New Zealand on a Monday you’ll arrive back in the US on Monday, the same day.

How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Auckland?

12 hours non-stop, or, as we like to say: Two good meals you don’t have to cook yourself, all the wines and liqueurs you care for, and unlimited free movies. Seriously, by the time you have cocktails, eat, relax with a book or a movie, sleep and eat again; you’re there. Your vacation starts at take off.

How much does a trip to New Zealand cost?

That’s about as difficult as answering how much your house remodel will cost - it all depends on what you plan to do. But if you just want a general idea, look at our packages which are valid pretty much all year round.

What clothes should I pack?

Australia is a reasonably casual country, which is reflected in the locals’ attire. To attend an Opera House performance or dine at a fine restaurant, gentlemen may feel more comfortable in a jacket. To be prepared for any weather, use the layer system. Wear a t-shirt, but carry a fleece and lightweight waterproof jacket in a daypack so you’re ready for all conditions. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. We provide you with a packing list with your final documentation.

Is it true that there are poisonous jellyfish in the waters around Cairns?

Yes, from about December to March, but there are designated swimming areas which are netted to keep the “stingers” out so that you can swim in the ocean. The Great Barrier Reef Islands are usually not effected, and all hotels have pools.

What regions do you recommend I visit?

Australia has so many experiences to offer, we’ll talk with you about activities you are interested in, your budget, your style of vacation and we can put a really unique and creative itinerary together for you that will cater exactly to the expectations you have. That’s what we are here for!

How far in advance should I book?

As far as possible to avoid disappointment at sought after properties. A $300 deposit will allow us to confirm services and hold your reservation until final payment is due. We’ll supply complete Terms and Conditions with your Quotation.

What is the weather like; when should I travel?

Australia, which is as large as the continental US, has milder temperature extremes. The seasons are reversed so the northern Tropics are hot and rainy from December through February and the southern areas are cool, though rarely snowy, from July through September. Mildest months for all round travel are March and April, and October and November.

Australia Average Temperatures

What documentation do I need for Australia?

To return to the US you need a valid passport. To enter Australia you need a passport valid for at least six months after the date of your departure. To enter Australia you need an ETA, which we can usually issue for you over the phone in five minutes, if you are a US citizen. When you book, we’ll fax you a Personal Information form to fill out which will ask you for all the details we need to issue your Australian visa. Getting a passport is your own responsibility.

How long should I spend in Australia?

Most people find that 2 weeks is the right amount of time to visit 3 regions. If you have more time, you’ll see more.

I lose a day?

On the way to Australia you’ll skip a day on the calendar when you cross the dateline, but the reverse happens on the way back so you really haven’t lost anything. Here’s how it works: If you leave the US on a Monday evening, you’ll arrive in Australia on Wednesday morning. If you leave Australia on a Monday you’ll arrive back in the US on Monday, the same day.

How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Sydney?

14 hours non-stop, or, as we like to say: Two good meals you don’t have to cook yourself, all the Australian wines and liqueurs you care for, and unlimited free movies. Seriously, by the time you have cocktails, eat, relax with a book or a movie, sleep and eat again; you’re there. Your vacation starts at take off.

How much does a trip to Australia cost?

That’s about as difficult as answering how much your house remodel will cost-it all depends on what you plan to do. But if you just want a general idea, look at our packages which are valid pretty much all year round.