Airlines jumping into the fray of leisure travel

All the world loves Dubai, given that 40 per cent of Emirates passengers alone stop by in the city. But in the summers options seem greener in other parts of the world.

Popular destinations include India, Seychelles, Malaysia, Mauritius, Maldives, Singapore, Lebanon, Sri Lanka and Thailand. As the scorching sun looms on the horizon, Gulf residents are searching for cooler options. "Destinations close to the Gulf which can be reached within a 4-5 hour flight, such as Egypt, India, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Kenya and Mauritius are keenly sought after," said Hans Haensel, Senior Vice-President, Emirates Holidays.

Meanwhile, airlines are jumping into the fray of leisure travel. SriLankan airways has also tied up with hotel groups in the region to offer value pricing, flights and sightseeing options as part of their summer holiday package.

The airline is also offering a special Ayurveda taster package for the uninitiated. Under this package, you can go to Sri Lanka and enjoy and return for Dh. 2,430 per person.

Says CEO Peter Hill, "The new packages offer a convenient way to sample what is there just few hours flights from the Gulf."

(Khaleej Times)