Expatriate Forums in Middle East

JOBS VACANCIES ANNOUNCEMENTS-TOTAL ENERGY PETROCHEMICAL

Mrs. Belinda — Mon Sep 07, 2009 9:08 pm

Author: Mrs. Belinda

Posted: Mon Sep 07, 2009 9:08 pm

Hello Everyone,
We take this opportunity to publicly make this last announcement to every liked minded individual, that the TOTAL ENERGY PETROCHEMICAL COMPANY (UK) PLC. Is hereby announcing jobs vacancies/ training programme 2009 in United Kingdom . We need the services of able men and women around the globe to fill in the jobs gap placement in our company in United Kingdom. Below are the summaries
list of jobs vacancies with Total Energy Company as follow :- Accounting / Audit / Taxation Jobs, Administration / Clerical Support / Service, Jobs, Banking, Business Analysis / Data Analysis Jobs, Business Consultancy Jobs, Business Development Jobs, Call Centre Jobs, Civil Services Jobs, Company Secretary Jobs, Customer Service Jobs, Design Jobs, Documentary Credit / Bills Processing, Energy / Natural Resources / Oil & Gas, Engineering Jobs, General Management Jobs, Hospitality / Hotel Services Jobs, Human Resources / Recruitment Jobs, Information Technology (I.T.) Jobs, Insurance Jobs, Junior Executive Jobs, Legal & Compliance Jobs, Inventorying, Marketing / Public Relations Jobs, Merchandising Jobs, Order Processing & Operation / Setting, Others Jobs, Petroleum / Petrochemical Jobs, Procurement / Purchasing / Sourcing
Jobs, Research & Development (R&D) Jobs, Research / Survey Services Jobs, Sales Jobs, Student / Fresh Graduate / No Experience, Telecommunications Jobs, Top Executives (CEO, CFO, CTO, GM, Manager, Tourism / Travel Agency Jobs, Trading Jobs, Transportation / Shipping / Freighting, and many more jobs place available.

Thanks for your audience to read this publication message.
Mrs. Belinda Clifford
(Chief international Announcement officer).
Total Energy Company Plc London - United

JOBS VACANCIES ANNOUNCEMENTS-TOTAL ENERGY PETROCHEMICAL

Mrs. Belinda — Mon Sep 07, 2009 9:07 pm

Author: Mrs. Belinda

Posted: Mon Sep 07, 2009 9:07 pm

Hello Everyone,
We take this opportunity to publicly make this last announcement to every liked minded individual, that the TOTAL ENERGY PETROCHEMICAL COMPANY (UK) PLC. Is hereby announcing jobs vacancies/ training programme 2009 in United Kingdom . We need the services of able men and women around the globe to fill in the jobs gap placement in our company in United Kingdom. Below are the summaries
list of jobs vacancies with Total Energy Company as follow :- Accounting / Audit / Taxation Jobs, Administration / Clerical Support / Service, Jobs, Banking, Business Analysis / Data Analysis Jobs, Business Consultancy Jobs, Business Development Jobs, Call Centre Jobs, Civil Services Jobs, Company Secretary Jobs, Customer Service Jobs, Design Jobs, Documentary Credit / Bills Processing, Energy / Natural Resources / Oil & Gas, Engineering Jobs, General Management Jobs, Hospitality / Hotel Services Jobs, Human Resources / Recruitment Jobs, Information Technology (I.T.) Jobs, Insurance Jobs, Junior Executive Jobs, Legal & Compliance Jobs, Inventorying, Marketing / Public Relations Jobs, Merchandising Jobs, Order Processing & Operation / Setting, Others Jobs, Petroleum / Petrochemical Jobs, Procurement / Purchasing / Sourcing
Jobs, Research & Development (R&D) Jobs, Research / Survey Services Jobs, Sales Jobs, Student / Fresh Graduate / No Experience, Telecommunications Jobs, Top Executives (CEO, CFO, CTO, GM, Manager, Tourism / Travel Agency Jobs, Trading Jobs, Transportation / Shipping / Freighting, and many more jobs place available.

Thanks for your audience to read this publication message.
Mrs. Belinda Clifford
(Chief international Announcement officer).
Total Energy Company Plc London - United

Nhon Trach City Center (NTCC)

siewlee26 — Wed Apr 01, 2009 2:34 pm

Author: siewlee26

Posted: Wed Apr 01, 2009 2:34 pm

Nhon Trach City Center (NTCC)

International Future City of Vietnam
Nhon Trach City Center (NTCC); the first satellite township concept in Nhon Trach District, Dong Nai Province; incorporates housing, commercial and recreational complexes to present the opportunity for the elite in Vietnam to experience luxury life where home, work, business and play are all within reach in a secured environment. With the essence of design contributed by specialists with hands-on housing scheme development experiences in Hong Kong, China, India, Australia and Malaysia, NTCC is shaped to be the International Future City of Vietnam!

Strategic Location
The position of NTCC in the would-be administrative center of Nhon Trach; which is about 60km from the bustling HCMC, in close proximity to numerous established industrial parks, namely Nhon Trach Industrial Park I-VI; benefits our tenants / owners in taking advantage of all the current and future planning for either Nhon Trach or its neighbouring cities in the south, collectively known as Southern Key Economic Zone.

Office Tower - NTCC’s kick off!!
NTCC will begin with the construction of our 15-storey Office Tower (Block H) which will be the first international standard high-rise office building in the heart of Nhon Trach. The elegance of the featured façade coupled with the creatively designed floor spaces shall fulfill every discerning owners’ differing investment requirements. Still hesitating? The following facts may help you decide:

- Total net floor area : approx. 16,448 m2 with typical sizes of about 76 m2 to 699 m2 / unit, or up to 1,480 m2 / floor.
- Spacious parking lots in basement and open car parks.
- Floor to ceiling height of 2.6m to 4.0m spreads out high-end visuals.
- Central air-conditioning system.
- 3 high speed passenger lifts and 1 service lift.
- Round-the-clock security services with CCTV surrounding the building.
- Managed by Professional Property Management Company.

Our elegant and first ever Office Tower in Nhon Trach is now opened for registration. It’s only 15 floors. Hurry and be amongst pioneer new owners!! For more details and registration, please contact us via :-

Marketing Hotline : +84 (933) 268 968

FX Currency Trading / Forex FX Trading Online - Know More

admin — Mon Sep 18, 2006 2:21 pm

Author: admin

Posted: Mon Sep 18, 2006 2:21 pm

Forex Trading – FX Trading

Foreign Exchange
This short introduction explains the basics of trading Forex online, a brief explanation of the markets and the major benefits of trading Forex online. There are also two scenarios describing the implications of trading in a bear as well as bull market to better acquaint you with some of the risks and opportunities in the largest and most liquid market in the world.

As an additional aid for those who are new to Forex, there is also a glossary at the bottom of this text which explains some of the terms used in connection with currency trading.

Overview
Foreign exchange , forex or just Forex are all terms used to describe the trading of the world's many currencies. The forex market is the largest market in the world, with trades amounting to more than $1.5 trillion every day. This is more than one hundred times the daily trading on the NYSE (New York Stock Exchange) . Most forex trading is speculative , with only a few percent of market activity representing governments' and companies' fundamental currency conversion needs.

Unlike trading on the stock market, the forex market is not carried out by a central exchange, but on the "interbank" market , which is thought of as an OTC (over the counter ) market. Trading takes place directly between the two counterparts necessary to make a trade, whether over the telephone or on electronic networks all over the world. The main centres for trading are Sydney, Tokyo, London, Frankfurt and New York. This worldwide distribution of trading centres means that the forex market is a 24-hour market.

Trading Forex
A currency trade is the simultaneous buying of one currency and selling of another one. The currency combination used in the trade is called a cross (for example, the Euro/US Dollar, or the GB Pound/Japanese Yen.). The most commonly traded currencies are the so-called "majors" - EURUSD, USDJPY, USDCHF and GBPUSD.

The most important forex market is the spot market as it has the largest volume. The market is called the spot market because trades are settled "immediately" or on the spot. In practice this means within two banking days.

Trading on Margin
Trading on margin means that you can buy and sell assets that represent more value than the capital in your account. Forex trading is usually done with relatively little margin since currency exchange rate fluctuations tend to be less than one or two percent on any given day. To take an example, a margin of 2.0% means you can trade up to $500,000 even though you only have $10,000 in your account. In terms of leverage this corresponds to 50:1, because 50 times $10,000 is $500,000, or put another way, $10,000 is 2.0% of $500.000. Using this much leverage gives you the possibility to make profits very quickly, but there is also a greater risk of incurring large losses and even being completely wiped out. Therefore, it is inadvisable to maximise your leveraging as the risks can be very high. For more information on the trading conditions at Saxo Bank, go to the Account Summary on your Client Station and open the section entitled "Trading Conditions" found in the top right-hand corner of the Account Summary.

Why trade Forex?

24 hour trading
One of the major advantages of trading forex is the opportunity to trade 24 hours a day from Sunday evening (20:00 GMT) to Friday evening (22:00 GMT). This gives you a unique opportunity to react instantly to breaking news that is affecting the markets.
Superior liquidity
The forex market is so liquid that there are always buyers and sellers to trade with. The liquidity of this market, especially that of the major currencies, helps ensure price stability and low spreads . The liquidity comes mainly from large and smaller banks that provide liquidity to investors, companies, institutions and other currency market players.
No commissions
The fact that forex is often traded without commissions makes it very attractive as an investment opportunity for investors who want to deal on a frequent basis. Trading the "majors" is also cheaper than trading other crosss because of the high level of liquidity. For more information on the trading conditions at Saxo Bank, go to the Account Summary on your Client Station and open the section entitled "Trading Conditions" found in the top right-hand corner of the Account Summary.
50:1 Leverage
With a minimum account of USD 10,000, for example, you can trade up to USD 500,000. The USD 10,000 is posted on margin as a guarantee for the future performance of your position.
Profit potential in falling markets
Since the market is constantly moving, there are always trading opportunities, whether a currency is strengthening or weakening in relation to another currency. When you trade currencies, they literally work against each other. If the EURUSD declines, for example, it is because the U.S. dollar gets stronger against the Euro and vice versa. So, if you think the EURUSD will decline (that is, that the Euro will weaken versus the dollar), you would sell EUR now and then later you buy Euro back at a lower price and take your profits. The opposite trading scenario would occur if the EURUSD appreciates .

Important Forex Trading Terms

Spread
The spread is the difference between the price that you can sell currency at ( Bid ) and the price you can buy currency at ( Ask ). The spread on majors is usually 5 pips under normal market conditions. For more information on the trading conditions at Saxo Bank, go to the Account Summary on your Client Station and open the section entitled "Trading Conditions" found in the top right-hand corner of the Account Summary.
Pips
A pip is the smallest unit by which a cross price quote changes. When trading forex you will often hear that there is a 5-pip spread when you trade the majors. This spread is revealed when you compare the bid and the ask price, for example EURUSD is quoted at a bid price of 0.9875 and an ask price of 0.9880. The difference is USD 0.0005, which is equal to 5 "pips". On a contract or position, the value of a pip can easily be calculated. You know that the EURUSD is quoted with four decimals, so all you have to do is the cancel-out the four zeros on the amount you trade and you will have one pip. Thus, on a EURUSD 100,000 contract, one pip is USD 10. On a USDJPY 100,000 contract, one pip is equal to 1000 yen, because USDJPY is quoted with only two decimals.

Trading Scenario - Trading Rising Prices
If you believe that the Euro will strengthen against the dollar you'll want to buy Euro now and sell it back later at a higher price.

You buy Euro	We quote EURUSD at Bid 0.9875 and Ask 0.9880, which means that you can sell 1 Euro for 0.9875 USD or buy 1 Euro for 0.9880 USD. In this example you buy Euro 100,000, at the quote price of 0.9880 (ask price) per Euro.
The market turns	Later the market turns in favour of the Euro and the EURUSD is now quoted at Bid 0.9894 and Ask 0.9899.
Now you want to sell your Euro and get the profit	You sell Euro at a Bid price of 0.9894.
The profit is calculated as follows:	Sell price-buy price x size of trade (0.9894 minus 0.9880) multiplied by 100.000 = $140 Profit (Note that the profit or loss is always expressed in the secondary currency )

Trading Scenario - Trading Falling Prices
If, on the other hand, you believe that the Euro will weaken against the dollar, you'll want to sell EURUSD.

You sell Euro	We quote EURUSD at a Bid price of 0.9875 and Ask price of 0.9880 and you decide to sellEuro 100,000 at a Bid price of 0.9875.
The market moves in your favour	The Euro weakens against the dollar and the EURUSD is now quoted at bid 0.9744 and ask 0.9749.
Now you buy back your Euro	You buy EUR at an ask price of 0.9749.
Your Profit/loss is then	Sell price-buy price x size of trade (0.9875 minus 0.9749) multiplied by 100.000 = $ 1260 Profit

Remember that trading EUR 100,000 as we have done in our examples, does not mean that you have to put up Euro 100,000 yourself. It means that you have to deposit 2.0% of Euro 100,000, which is Euro 2,000 on margin as a guarantee for the future performance of your position.

Further Reading
To see how you can trade the forex market and benefit from our toolbox of information and live quotes, please proceed to our Forex Quick Start found under the Trading menu on the toolbar, under Forex.

Glossary

Appreciation	Anincrease in the value of a currency.
Ask	Theprice at which you can buy. Traders also speak of an ask price,the price requested. This usually indicates the lowest price aseller will accept.
Basecurrency	Thecurrency that the investor buys or sells (i.e. EUR in EURUSD).
Bear	Someonewho believes prices are heading down. A bear market is one inwhich there is a sustained fall in prices and which does not looklike it will recover quickly.
Bid	Theprice at which you can sell. Traders also speak of a bid price,the price offered. This usually indicates the top price apurchaser will pay.
Bid/Ask	TheBid rate is the rate at which you sell. The Ask (or offer) rate isthe rate at which you can buy.
Bull	Someonewho is optimistic about the market. A bull market is characterisedby enthusiastic and sustained buying.
cross	Whentrading currencies, the investor buys one currency againstanother. These two currencies form the cross: for example, EURUSD.
Crossrate	Anexchange rate that is calculated from two other exchange rates.
Depreciation/decline	Afall in the value of a currency.
Exchangerate	Whatone currency is worth in terms of another, for example the $Amight be worth 58 US cents or 70 yen. Currencies traded freely onforeign-exchange markets have a spot rate (applying to tradessettled 'spot', ie, two working days hence) and a forward rate.Countries can determine their exchange rates in a variety of ways:a floating exchange rate system where the currency finds its ownlevel in the market; a crawling or flexible peg system which is acombination of an officially fixed rate and frequent smalladjustments which in theory work against a build-up of speculationabout a revaluation or devaluation; a fixed exchange-rate systemwhere the value of the currency is set by the government and/orthe central bank.
EURUSD	Meansthat you trade EUR against dollars. If you buy Euro you pay indollars and if you sell Euro you receive dollars.
FX,Forex, Foreign Exchange	Allnames for the transaction of one currency for another, e.g. youbuy £100.00 with $150.25 or sell $150.25 for £100.00.
Interbank	Short-term(often overnight) borrowing and lending between banks, as distinctfrom banks' business with their corporate clients or otherfinancial institutions.
Interestrate differential	Theyield spread between two otherwise comparable debt instrumentsdenominated in different currencies.
Leverage(gearing)	Inthis case leverage means that the investor only funds part of theamount traded.
Long	Tobuy.
Longposition	Aposition that increases its value if market prices increase.
Liquid(-ity)	Thecapacity to be converted easily and with minimum loss into cash.Ultra-short-dated treasury notes are an example of a liquidinvestment. A liquid market is one in which there is enoughactivity to satisfy both buyers and sellers.
Margin	Theinitial amount or deposit required when entering into a position.Margin is a guarantee for future performance.
NYSE	Acomputerised system providing brokers with the prices of sharesand securities traded on the New York stock exchange and over thecounter. The quotes are published in real-time.
Openposition	Aposition in a currency that has not yet been offset. For example,if you have bought 100,000 USDJPY, you have an open position inUSDJPY until you offset it by selling 100,000 USDJPY.
"Overthe counter"	Whentrading takes place directly between two parties, rather than onan exchange.
Pips	Apip is the smallest unit by which a cross price quote changes. Soif EURUSD bid is now quoted at 0.9767 and it moves up 2 pips, itwill now be quoted at 0.9769.
Position	Money-market,futures, foreign-exchange and sharemarket traders talk of 'takinga position' which simply means buying or selling one currencycross. 'Position' can also refer to a trader'scash/securities/currencies balance, whether he or she is short ofcash, has money to lend, is overbought or oversold in a currency,etc.
Risk	Tryingto control outcomes to a known or predictable range of gains orlosses. Risk management involves a set of steps which begin with asound understanding of one's business and the exposures or risksthat have to be covered to protect the value of that business.Then an assessment should be made of the types of variables thatcan affect the business and how best to protect against unwelcomeoutcomes. Consideration must also be given to the preferred riskprofile - whether one is risk- averse or fairly aggressive inapproach. This also involves deciding which instruments to use tomanage risk, and whether a natural hedge exists that can be used.Once undertaken, a risk-management strategy should be continuallyassessed for effectiveness and cost.
Secondarycurrency (variable currency or counter currency)	Thecurrency that the investor trades the base currency against (i.e.USD in EURUSD).
Shortposition	Aposition that benefits from a decline in market prices.
Short	Tosell.
Speculative	Buyingand selling in the hope of making a profit, rather than doing sofor some fundamental business-related need.
Spot	ASpot rate is the current market price of an asset.
Spotmarket	Thepart of the market calling for spot settlement of transactions.The precise meaning of 'spot' will depend on local custom for acommodity, security or currency. In the UK, US and Australianforeign-exchange markets, 'spot' means delivery two working dayshence.
Spread	Thedifference between the bid and the ask rate.

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News

Yemen stops efforts for emergency Arab summit - People's Da

Yemen News — Tue Jul 25, 2006 12:15 pm

Author: Yemen News

Posted: Tue Jul 25, 2006 12:15 pm

Yemen Times

Yemen stops efforts for emergency Arab summit
People's Daily Online, China - 2 hours ago
Arab League Secretary-General Amr Moussa said on Monday that Yemen had officially notified the league that it would stop efforts to hold an emergency Arab ...
Yemen withdraws proposal for Arab summit News Yemen
Yemen disappointed at summit withdrawal Yemen Times
Kuwait backs ‘Arab summit’ as Yemen decides to pull proposal ... Arab Times
People's Daily Online - all 10 related

Yemen’s Saleh gets final approval to run for new term - K

Yemen News — Tue Jul 25, 2006 12:15 pm

Author: Yemen News

Posted: Tue Jul 25, 2006 12:15 pm

Middle East Online

Yemen’s Saleh gets final approval to run for new term
Khaleej Times, United Arab Emirates - 14 hours ago
SANA’A - Five candidates for Yemen’s September presidential elections, including incumbent president Ali Abdullah Saleh, received final approval from ...
Saleh, bin Shamlan, Yaseen, al-Majeedi and al-Azab approved for ... Yemen Observer
Saleh to face four challengers Middle East Online
all 4 related

Yemen Sports Clubs : Sports Clubs in Yemen Guide

Anonymous — Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:52 pm

Author: Anonymous

Posted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:52 pm

Yemen Sports Clubs : Sports Clubs in Yemen Guide

Clubs: The clubs in Sana’a all belong to groups of a certain nationality or are part of a hotel. They all have different facilities so know what you are looking for and what you are willing to pay.
British Club: A club with a small cold pool, a tennis-court, a few dart boards and a snooker billiard. With bar and basic restaurant facility. The club is meant for British Embassy staff and British nationals only but as not many British are left they currently need the other foreigners to save the club from having to close down. Other nationals can only become associate members. No membership for Yemenis. They charge 200 US$ for a family as one years membership fee.

The American Club: Currently closed due to the political situation and the threat of attacks. Unknown when they will open again.
The Russian Club is one of the few places apart from the Sheraton and Taj Sheba where alcohol is sold. It is a bit seedy and open till very late and sometimes has go-go-dancers. Entrance is free for every expatriate. The Club is in the tourist village opposite the American Embassy.

Taj Sheba Hotel: The Hotel has a swimming pool, a jacuzzi and some work out facilities. Their pool is well kept but the membership fee is high just like the next one:

Sheraton Hotel: Offers a large heated swimming pool (not always as a result of poor maintenance) two tennis court, a fitness room (men and women separate) a sauna and a whirlpool. The hotel also offers lunch and dinners but be ready to wait for at least 30 minutes before your order arrives. The cost is US$ 1.000 a year for a family. You can also get in on a daily basis for which you will pay YR 2.000 per person. There is a tennis coach who gives lessons.

Sports and activities for children

Karate classes: For those who want to join in fighting sports the Diplomatic Centre is a good choice. They offer karate classes and taekwondo or judo. Their school is in the Hadda/Attan area. To reach there you need to drive up Hadda road and take the first road on your right after the Medina (yes, just after the Bin Obeid furnishing shop). On this road you need to take the third road on your right again and then they are just after the corner on the left (white doors). Check on their fees as they seem to vary according to colour and nationality. Females will also join here. For the very young kids (6 or 8 year old ones) you may need to supervise a bit as the educational methods for big and small ones are the same. The young ones are easily left out. Join a few free lessons to see whether it is suitable for you or your children.

Judo classes: If above mentioned Diplomatic Centre does not offer what you want then check on the French Cultural Centre at the Circular Road. They also offer judo classes. Their teacher is a champion but he insists a lot on a discipline that might be asked a bit too much from young ones. As he shouts a lot young kids are easily put off. Join a few free lessons to see whether you or the young one can bear.

Ballet: A Russian lady gives ballet lessons in Sana’a. She has her studio on the Medina Sekenia in one of the first blocks on your right when entering the Medina from Hadda Road. The door that leads to the building is painted pink and is next to a whole sale sellers shop. He sometimes make problems if you park in front of his shop.

Tennis lessons: Neither tennis courts nor teachers are in abundance in Sana’a. There are two courts at the Sheraton Hotel and also a teacher is available upon request. Discuss the fee and court rent before you start your lessons. (YR 750 for 45 minutes)
A court is also available at the Hadda Hotel. Nabil is their tennis marker( tel: 71720027). He is also willing to come to the British Club in case you want your lessons there (currently charges 500YR per hour). He became tennis champion of Yemen for the fourth of fifth time this year. He is also good in teaching children but if the children are young it is wise to organise one hour for three or four children at once.

Source by: Rosan Aalbers

YEMEN LEISURE : Activities For Expats

Anonymous — Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:51 pm

Author: Anonymous

Posted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:51 pm

YEMEN LEISURE : Activities For Expats

Language institutes:
Learning Arabic definitely has a lot of advantages. In many areas in Yemen you will not come across any English speakers so it is wise to learn the basics in order to get around and be able to explain what you want or need or to just exchange some greetings with the Yemenis. Besides that it enlarges your scope to get information on the county and its inhabitants. The Yemenis are usually happy if you can manage in some Arabic. Following a good course of Arabic will also get you in touch with other people.
Two language institutes are most used by foreigners: The British Yemeni Arabic Institute: (tel:417527, email: allardyce@y.net.ye. They are located on what is now Iran Street, but what used to be 24th street. Anyway it is the first big crossing on your left on Hadda Road after the Medina. They are close to the Koreana restaurant, follow the signs from there. They offer a good variety of courses for anyone.
Another good option in the old city is the Sana’a Institute for Arabic Language on the Al-Sailah street in the old city (tel:284330/284331, email: sial@y.net.ye). They seem to offer good language courses but they also attract the wrong kind of Americans with fundamental Islamic interests like the one caught in Afghanistan.

Birding/environmental organisations:
In Yemen there is the Yemen Ornithological Society who often go out on birdwatching expeditions (once a fortnight). In addition they have regular meetings on which invited experts lecture about specifics of Yemen Fauna. Contact David Stanton (tel:207059) or use the email address: davidstanton@qsi.org

Hash:
Once a week, every Monday, a group of expats and Yemenis go on a walk/run somewhere around Sana’a. This is a relaxing way of meeting other people. As everywhere in the world the hash has only volunteers. The big difference with most other countries is the absence of alcohol, since public consumption of alcohol is forbidden in Yemen. To get your name on the mailing list, so you know where to go, contact Randell Cameron on 275977. By email he can be reached under consultant@y.net.ye.

International Women’s Association:
The association is open to all expat women. They will meet every second Wednesday morning of the month in the Taj Sheba hotel. Usually a guest will talk on a subject of interest and announcements will be made. No need to become a member, you pay 500 YR every time you come for the meeting and leave your email address for further invitations. Every year they will organise a charity lunch and a charity bazaar and sometimes some other activities. If you are trying to settle in and you want to meet some other women the IWA offers the best opportunity.

Book-clubs:
A few book clubs are available in Sana’a The members will make up a list of books to read and to discuss. As people are invited to join with specific clubs, it is best to let others know that you are looking for a book club to join.

Source by: Rosan Aalbers

Asia Cruise Lines, Cruise Trip Booking & Travel Informat

Anonymous — Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:49 pm

Author: Anonymous

Posted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:49 pm

Asia Cruise Lines, Cruise Trip Booking & Travel Information

Cruise Lines Set Their Sights on Asia

Articles by
By AMY GUNDERSON
Published: October 2, 2005
New York Times

OVER the next year, Bob Fabian, a retiree from Charlotte, N.C., will visit Bangkok, Bali, Singapore, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City, Pusan in South Korea, and some 10 cities in Japan. But his trips aren't taking him through countless airports and hotels - instead, Mr. Fabian is traveling around Asia by cruise ship.

"Bangkok is fabulous," he said. "The Grand Palace is just indescribable. It's like the eighth wonder of the world."

Mr. Fabian went with his wife on their first cruise to Asia a year and a half ago aboard a Crystal Cruises ship and was so enthralled that he booked three more cruises to the region. In December, the couple will take a 20-day trip from Singapore to Sydney aboard Princess Cruises' Diamond Princess.

Then next spring, they plan to sail on Oceania Cruises' Nautica from Hong Kong, making stops in Vietnam, Thailand and India before traveling up the Suez Canal to its final destination, Athens, some 35 days later. In October, it's a 14-day trip with Cruise West, a small-ship operator that docks in ports throughout Japan.

Until recently, Asian ports were the mainstay of smaller cruise lines or those so-called world cruises, globe-circling treks of typically 100 or more days that would include several stops in the Far East. But cruising makes going to Asia more accessible for many tourists - language barriers and the logistics of moving around the region are less of a problem when you can return to your ship each night - and airlines are beefing up their nonstop flights to the region. Now, travel agents are marketing sailings in Asia to cruise veterans and accomplished travelers as an alternative to the Caribbean and Europe.

"For baby boomers like me, we've all been there and done that," said Nancy Yale, a travel agent in Fairfield, Conn., who specializes in cruises and has seen her bookings to Asia increase exponentially over the last two years. "Some of my clients have been to Asia on business or have even done land tours there, but they are going back for cruises."

Operators are adding ships to the region, venturing into new ports and diversifying schedules to include shorter trips.

"Cruises to Asia are changing," said Carolyn Spencer Brown, the editor of CruiseCritic, an online magazine. "The cruise industry is trying to market to a younger, more active audience, so they are sending bigger, newer ships there. In the past, the oldest, smallest ships got the Asia assignment. There are also now shorter itineraries, so if you don't have three weeks off, you can go for 10 days."

Silversea Cruises - which will operate 17 separate cruises in Asia and Australia in 2006, ranging from 8 to 16 days - has a program that charges passengers daily rates so they can join a cruise at the port of their choice. Travelers can embark at any point, but must stay a minimum of five nights, for a daily rate as low as $480.

While most cruise lines have their ships in Asia for only part of the year, the Malaysia-based Star Cruises, which also owns Norwegian Cruise Line, runs trips year round in Asia. It caters primarily to Asian travelers, but its SuperStar Virgo itineraries attract the greatest diversity of passengers, including Australians, Britons and Americans. The ship maintains an Asian d飯r and restaurants - there is even a poolside noodle bar.

Princess Cruises launched its first full season of cruises in Asia in 2004, and next year is beefing up capacity in the region by 25 percent.

Holland America, which previously only stopped in Asia on world cruises or during 30-day sailings once a year, is moving its refurbished 1,258-passenger Statendam to the region in March for four cruises, some as short as two weeks.

Oceania Cruises' newest ship, the Nautica, will begin its service in November by sailing for five months in Asia.

There are also a growing number of itineraries to choose from. Princess Cruises, which distinguishes itself from most other operators by running summer cruises in Asia, is adding the Cambodian port of Sihanoukville - from which travelers can reach Angkor Wat - in 2006. Holland America also added more overnight stays in ports like Shanghai and Osaka.

Overnight stays in ports are also featured on Oceania Cruises.

"The overnights are very heavy on the Asia cruises," said Tim Rubacky, manager of Oceania's marketing and public relations. "They've become a trademark for us in Europe, but in Asia it is even more important."

The extra time allows travelers plenty of opportunity to get into a city, and comes in handy for checking out the night life. Reaching a city center or shore excursion can mean a trek of a half-hour or more from the port. Hanoi, which is on Oceania's itineraries, is about a three-hour drive from Halong Bay.

Though many cruise lines are delving into trips that take up less time, long-haul world cruises are still a standard offering, and they can also be bought in shorter segments. Radisson Seven Seas Cruises' Seven Seas Voyager goes to Asia as part of its 108-day world cruise. As the ship makes its way from Sydney to Dubai there are three trips ranging from 14 to 22 nights. Radisson added Rangoon to the 2006 itinerary, and the ship spends multiple nights in Hong Kong, rather than just a single overnight stay. In 2007, Holland America will run three longer cruises, including a 105-day trip on the Amsterdam that will stop for the first time in Nha Tran, Vietnam; Tuticorin, India; and Salalah, Oman.

The Queen Mary 2 will run its first world cruise in 2007, an 80-day trip that can be bought in segments as short as 14 days. The ship's 19-day trip from Sydney to Dubai will stop in Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Cochin, India. While the cruise ships might be swathed in luxury, often the Asian ports are not, but that is also changing. Singapore upgraded its port in 1998, and Shanghai broke ground on a new cruise ship terminal that should be completed by early 2007.

"The majority of ports there are not what you might see in the U.S.," said Mr. Rubacky. "But with more ships returning to Asia, countries are starting to put a better face on the ports."

Asia Cruise Lines Guide

The number of cruise lines sending ships to Asia has increased markedly in the past couple of years, making it easier to travel in the Far East. All prices below are per person double occupancy and do not include air fare unless noted.

Star Cruises
http://www.starcruises.com/
(60) 3 3101 1313, Star Cruises is the biggest Asian based cruise line and one of the fastest-growing in the world. Starting with two ships in 1993, the company owns ten ships at the moment. The Star fleet consist of three distinct brands: Star, SuperStar and MegaStar. The cruise line has bought many ships from other cruise lines (the former Sun Viking from Royal Caribbean, the former Golden Princess from Princess Cruises and even the former Baltic ferries Athena and Kalypso. Star Cruises has also purchased the luxury liner Europa from Germany's Hapag-Lloyd with plans to convert it to the most luxurious ship cruising in Asian waters. The cruise line is also building new ships, the first two are already in service - the superliners Superstar Leo and Superstar Virgo. .

Holland America,
http://www.hollandamerica.com
(877) 724-5425, has three 14-day cruises aboard the 1,258-passenger Statendam. On March 20 and April 17, 2006, the ship departs from Hong Kong and travels north with overnight stays in Shanghai and Xingang, from which passengers can reach Beijing and the Great Wall. The boat also visits Dalian, China; Pusan, South Korea; and Nagasaki, Japan, where onshore trips tour Shimabara castle and a samurai village, before reaching Osaka. It does the reverse route on April 3. Prices start at $2,199.

Princess Cruises
http://www.princess.com
(800) 774-6237
The 670-passenger Pacific Princess, leaves Bangkok on Aug. 17, 2006, for Mumbai, India. The 16-day trip stops at Sihanoukville, Cambodia; Phu My, Vietnam - where passengers can reach Ho Chi Minh City; Singapore; Kuala Lumpur and Penang in Malaysia; Phuket, Thailand; Colombo, Sri Lanka; and the port of Mormugao on the west coast of India. It does the reverse route on Sept. 1, 2006. Prices start at $2,995.

Seven Seas Cruises
http://www.rssc.com
(877) 505-5370,
The 14-night segment of a world cruise on Radisson 700-passenger Seven Seas Voyager, departs Feb. 24, 2006, out of Hong Kong and includes overnight stays in the Vietnamese ports of Ho Chi Minh City and Hong Gai, where travelers can visit Halong Bay or Hanoi. The ship also stops in Bangkok before arriving in Singapore. Until Oct. 15, fares start at $9,296, including air fare, but if you book flights separately you can get a $1,400 credit against the cost of the cruise.

Cruise West
http://www.cruisewest.com
(888) 851-8133
The small-ship operator is offering its inaugural tour of Japan aboard the 120-passenger Spirit of Oceanus. It is sold out for 2006, but space on all of its seven 2007 voyages remains. The trip lasts 14 days and includes two nights at hotels at the start and end of the 10-night cruise. It leaves from Kobe or Niigata and stops in eight Japanese ports including Okayama, home to the 17th-century Korakuen Garden, and Izumo, site of the country's oldest Shinto shrine, as well as Pusan, South Korea. The 2007 cruises start at $5,699, and depart Niigata on March 28, April 17 and Oct. 18, and leave from Kobe on April 7 and 27, Oct. 8 and 28.

YEMEN HOTELS : Hotels in Yemen Guide

Anonymous — Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:45 pm

Author: Anonymous

Posted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:45 pm

YEMEN HOTELS : Hotels in Yemen Guide

Top Rated Hotels

Sana'a Sheraton Hotel, Yemen

The Sheraton Sana'a Hotel is located 2,200 meters above sea level, on a green hill overlooking Sana'a. The hotel is nestled in acres of gardens and is conveniently located close to the city center and Sana'a International Airport. The Sheraton offers 255 rooms, including 18 suites. For guests' dining pleasure and convenience, on-premises restaurants feature an array of international cuisine.

Address:Nashwan Al Himyari Street
P.O. BOX 2467
Sana'a, Yemen
Tel:(967)(1) 237500
Fax (967)(1) 251521
Website:http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/

Source: Sheraton.com

MERCURE -SANA'A Hotel , Yemen

Mercure Sana'a Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the city, 30km from the Sana'a international airport adjacent to Al-Saeed Commercial center, with easy access to the business district and nearby the famous " Bab El Yemen"

Address : Al-Zubairy Str.
P.O. Box: 5270, Sana'a, Yemen
Tel: +967 1 212544 , Fax: +967 1 212487
e-mail: mercuresanaa@y.net.ye
Web site: www.yemenbusiness.net/Mercure-Sanaa/

Sana'a International Hotel , Yemen Four Stars

Sana'a International Hotel located in the heart of Sana'a City, 10 minutes drive from Sana'a International Airport and 5 minutes drive to the down town (Souks), and old Sana'a City, Sana'a International Hotel provide esteemed clients tourism programs and packages with competitive prices.

Address : West 60's Street, Sana'a
P.O. Box: 5501, Sana'a, Yemen
Tel: +967 1 408201/5-400661/74 , Fax: +967 1 400675, Reservation: +967 1 400675
e-mail: info@sanaainterhotel.com
Web site: www.sanaainterhotel.com

Source: yemenbusiness.com

Taj Sheba Hotel , Sana'a, Yemen

Located in the centre of the business and shopping area as well as tourist spots. The Taj Sheba will cocoon the businessman and tourist alike in the most opulent of surroundings. All the hotels renovated rooms and suites are designed to ensure a high degree of comfort and convenience. All rooms with colour tv, satellite, fruit basket and mini bar. Hotel has sauna, steamroom, jacuzzi (segregated) and gymnasium. Massage, barber, beauty parlour. Fully equipped business centre with work stations, photocoppying machines, fax, internet, e-mail couriers and translations.

Address:PO Box 773
Ali Abdulmoghni St
Sanaa, Yemen
Tel: (967 - 1) 272372
Fax: (967 - 1) 274129
Email : sheba.sanaa@tajhotels.com

Source: tajhotels.com

Other interesting Hotels in Sana'a, Yemen

Sam City Hotel

P.O. Box 10127
Sana'a
Telephone: ( 00 967 - 1 ) 270 752
Fax: ( 00 967 - 1 ) 275 168
email: info@al-mamoon-group.com

Ghamdan Palace Hotel (Gumdan Palace Hotel)

P.O.Box 12447
Sana'a
Telephone: ( 00 967 - 1 ) 229 357
Fax: ( 00 967 - 1 ) 232 799
email: GPH@shebatourism.com
Web site: http://www.shebatourism.com/GPH.html

Arabia Felix Hotel

P.O. Box 2977
Sana'a
Telephone: ( 00 967 - 1 ) 287 330
Fax: ( 00 967 - 1 ) 287 426
email: arabia-felix@y.net.ye
Web site: http://arabiafelix.free.fr/

Hotels & Resorts in Aden, Yemen

Aden Hotel

P.O. Box 6111
Aden
Telephone: ( 00 967 - 2 ) 232 911
Fax: ( 00 967 - 2 ) 235 655
email: adenhotel@y.net.ye
Web page: www.geocities.com/adenhotel/Adenhotel.html

Elephant Bay Beach Resort

P.O. Box 13033
Aden
Telephone: ( 00 967 - 2 ) 202 055
Fax: ( 00 967 - 2 ) 201 082
email: ebbraden@y.net.ye

Al Amoudi Plaza Hotel

P.O. Box 5214
Malla, Aden
Telephone: ( 00 967 - 2 ) 247 000 or
247 001 or 247 005
Fax: ( 00 967 - 2 ) 247 011
email: amoudiplaza@y.net.ye

Source: www.ohmygosh.on.ca/stamps/yemen/yemenhtl.htm

Yemen Travel Tips ( Traveling to Yemen Essentials)

Anonymous — Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:44 pm

Author: Anonymous

Posted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:44 pm

Yemen Travel Tips ( Traveling to Yemen Essentials)

What to know about the culture
Yemen is a strict Muslim country and most people have their life arranged around religion. Especially Ramadan and Eid are important events. As the Yemenis are very hospitable and friendly you will be invited for iftar (breaking the fast during Ramadan) more than ones. Do take a small gift if you are invited.
During Ramadan life in Yemen gets turned upside down. People will often go to bed at four o’clock in the morning and will get up late. Shopping in daytime becomes difficult and easiest decision is to start shopping only after seven in the evening. The whole city will be illuminated and everybody gets out on the street. Do not be surprised if they tell you to come at two at night to collect your photographs or if they want to deliver something you’ve ordered at night time. A few warnings should also be made here: During Ramadan people tend to be very irritated just before iftar time and they will drive accordingly. Be wise and avoid going into the traffic at an hour before and after iftar time. We have seen some major accidents happen. Another warning concerns the religiosity during Ramadan. People will suddenly start living according to the rules much more and differences between religions tend to become sharpened so try to avoid any conflict and tone down a bit.
Life in Yemen is strictly divided between the sexes. A party (like marriage) will either be for males or for females. If you are invited as a couple you may expect that the men will be in another house than the women, so make an appointment beforehand if you use the same vehicle to travel.

Do’s and don’ts Being a Muslim country alcohol is not permitted in Yemen so if you do have alcohol, be careful and do not consume alcohol in public. In some restaurants it is possible to drink your own wines and beers, but they may not allow you during Ramadan. During Ramadan many Yemenis will go to a restaurant and during their Holy Month they do not want to be confronted with alcohol. Best is to ask the management before taking out your bottles and cans.

Be careful in making pictures. Many sites are considered military or strategic and making pictures there might get you in good trouble so avoid them. Also making pictures of women is tricky business. Always ask beforehand if you are allowed to make a photograph of them. If the answer is no you must respect that. Not abiding with this shows a lack of respect and may (especially outside Sana’a) lead to people throwing stones at you. Remember that Yemen is mainly stone and the practice of stoning is not extinct.

As in any country it is wise to also here refrain from insulting the country or religion. Many Yemenis are sceptical about their own country but still they are proud of Yemen. Do not join in and let scepticism come from themselves.

Another don’t (although in Sana’a and Aden it might be less of a problem) is going outside with wet hair and with loose hair. The first hair culturally leads to the though that you just had sex and the second hair leads men to think that you are looking for male company. Women would only untie the hair when in each other’s company or for husband only.

Security
Every now and then safety and security is one of the heavily discussed subjects among foreigners in Yemen. When it comes to burglary, robbery and other criminal acts you will most likely not be bothered at all in Yemen and you can feel very safe. This does not mean that you should leave your money in a hotel room or that your wallet should be hanging out of your pocket. Most people are poor and could do with some extra finance. In general you will be very safe when roaming the streets and shops of Sana’a.
Security in Yemen these days is a bit less easy to grasp and thus more of a hot topic. We will give you a brief background on this: As Yemen has a strong tribal background tribes are always part of politics and due to the mountainous areas it is difficult for the central government to control the country completely.
In the past kidnapping of foreigners was an important way for tribes of getting negotiations with the government into the right direction. Except on one occasion when the government tried to free a number of tourists by force, nothing bad has happened to the kidnapped. Most people who were ever kidnapped here tell that they were treated well and have enjoyed the hospitality of the tribe. Nevertheless it is not a desirable happening to be kidnapped. Since the year 2000 the number of kidnappings of expats has decreased enormously and fear for kidnappings has more or less disappeared. Unfortunately another threat has emerged that is less predictable and more violent.
Over the past decennia Yemen has been a good hide-out for fundamentalists and extremists and it is said there have been training camps for terrorists. In the past this save refuge meant that Yemen was left alone and was no playground for attacks. Since the USS Cole attack in Aden and the attack on the oil tanker Limburg things have changed in Yemen. Through these attacks the government experienced that Yemen can be harmed by terrorism. The Yemeni harbours were avoided by boats (due to the increase of 300% for insurance premiums to be paid) and monthly huge amounts of revenues were missed due to this. Tourism, which was another good source of income, came to a halt after September 2001 and it took more than half a year before any tourist would come to Yemen again. Still tourism is slow.
Nowadays most foreign agencies and embassies will be surrounded by security just to not be an easy target for extremists. It all looks a bit overdone but still it is necessary for all to be alert as threats are received regularly and plans for attacks are discovered every now and then. As a foreigner in Yemen you will have to live with these security measures. This means you will need to be aware of what is going on around you and in world politics. Take care you are in touch with your own embassy or other national agency and get registered there. While driving, keep enough distance to be able to escape if necessary and try to avoid routine routes. It is necessary to always keep a feeler for the atmosphere around you. Your guard may be a good help in finding out what is going on in your neighbourhood. Anything in politics or war can change the atmosphere dramatically and Yemenis are usually well aware of what is happening in the world. As many mosques in Yemen do not restrict themselves to religious matters but tend to go into world politics it is wise to avoid the inner city after the Friday prayers.

Traffic in Yemen
The traffic in Yemen is chaotic but as the people are usually relaxed and tolerant they will not bother about mistakes (or about being overtaken by a female driver). Many cars lack the presence of any mirror (and lights etc.) so they will not look behind them but just ahead. As long as everybody keeps an eye on what is going on ahead and expects the unexpected, the system works quite well.

You will find most drivers very alert as always something unexpected is happening in the Sana’a traffic. Be aware that the sidewalks along the roads are in bad shape and thus most pedestrians just use the road to walk.

Most taxis are not well maintained and will take any bump in the road as slowly as possible in order not to fall apart, so keep some distance. A nuisance is the dababs (the small mini buses). They stop in any place at any moment preferably at a crossing or at a corner. Stay away from them as they really make a mess out of the traffic and a collision with them is not unthinkable.

In case you do have an accident: Stay calm and try to get in touch with someone who can help you with Arabic if needed. Be reminded that friendliness quickly disappears if there are casualties so avoid them at any cost. Taking the number of a traffic policeman or anybody else will not work. The costs are yours unless you have a major accident and somebody supports you if you have a complaint against any other driver.

As many cars in Yemen lack any lights the traffic is dangerous in the evening or at night. Outside Sana’a you will not find many roads that have lanterns at night. Coupled with the badly maintained vehicles and ill protected roads this leads to dangerous driving so always avoid driving in the dark. When travelling in the country plan to be at your destination before darkness. By then it will be dinnertime anyhow.

Rent a car
Herz (tel: 440309)is the most used company for car-rent in Sana’a. They will charge you $ 50 per day to rent a car. Their office is located on the 60 Meter Road, opposite to the area where you find the UN offices. They are part of Universal travel and are in the Universal building.

An alternative is Universal (tel. 440305 ), a tourist agent with office on the 60 meter Road (see Herz). They rent out cars with driver for approximately US$ 50,- a day. The drivers usually only speak limited English, but they know their way around

A cheaper possibility to rent a car is via Sam (tel: 73760174), the barkeeper of the British Club. Sam has some seven different cars to offer and will charge you a 300$ per month. That’s the best deal you will get here. Besides being a bar tender and car rental Sam is also part of Yemen Smile. An NGO that collects money to have children with a cleft palate operated and help them enjoy life better and unashamed. Try to support them every now and then because they make other people happy.

Hertz Rent a Car
Universal Building, 60 Meters Road
Tel:
Sana’a: 440309
Aden: 245625

Universal Rent a Car
Hertz International Franchisee
Sana’a Tel: 440309 Fax: 440310
Aden Telefax: 245625
E-mail: utthertz@y.net.ye

Source by : Rosan Aalbers

Yemen Embassies Overseas-Yemen Embassy List

Anonymous — Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:44 pm

Author: Anonymous

Posted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:44 pm

Yemen Embassies Overseas-Yemen Embassy List

Algeria
St. 10 Mohammed Drayinee, Haydarah
El Djezair, Algier,
Tel: (213-2) 548950, 548599
Fax: (213-2) 548700

Australia
2b 11 West Street, Nort Sydney,
2060 Sydney
Tel: (61-2) 99823752
Fax: (61-2) 99821053

Autria
Ksarolinengasse 5/7
A-1040 Vienna
Tel: (43-1) 5032930/1
Fax: (43-1) 5053159

Bahrain
P.O.Box 26193, Manama
Tel: (973) 277702, 276113
Fax: (973) 262358, 324258

Belgium
Pr. J. Plateaustraat 49
B-9000 Gent
Tel: (32-9) 2250174
Fax: (32-9) 2256414

Bulgaria
Mladost 1, Building Andrei Saharov R 3
BG-1784 Sofia
Tel: (359-2) 9745639, 9745546
Fax: (359-2) 9745628, 9743463

Canada
788 Island Park Drive, Ottawa
ON KIY 0C2
Tel: (1-613) 233-8582/3, 232-8525
Fax: (1-613) 232-8276

Peoples Republic of China
5 Dong San Jei San Li Tun
Beijing 100600
Tel: (86-10) 65321558, 65323346
Fax: (86-10) 65324305

Croatia
Biankinijev A6, Zagreb
Tel: (385-1) 4553114
Fax: (385-1) 4553144

Cuba
Calle 16 #503, E/5 TA Y 7MA, Miramar
Havanna, Playa Cuba
Tel: (37) 204-3222/ 1509/ 1506
Fax: (37) 2041131

Czech Republic
Za Habspaulkou 2,
CZ-Prague 2
Tel: (420-2) 3333-1598/ 1568
Fax: (420-2) 33332204

Cyprus
P.O. Box 124, Limassol
Tel: (357-5) 326844
Fax: (357-5) 369275

Djibouti
Al-Jazirah/ Aden St./ Alexander St.
P.O. Box 194, Djibouti-Ville
Tel: (253) 352975, 356680
Fax: (253) 354323

Egypt
28 Amin El Rafei Street
Dokki, Cairo
Tel: (20-2) 7604806, 761422-4/ 5/ 6
Fax: (20-2) 7604815

Eritrea
P.O.Box 5566, Asmara
Tel: (291-1) 184892, 181399
Fax: (291-1) 181183

Ethiopia
P.O.Box 664, Addis Ababa
Tel: (251-1) 711811, 712204, 710990
Fax: (251-1) 710991

France
25, Rue Georges Bizet,
F-75016 Paris
Tel: (33-1) 5323-8787/ 7786
Fax: (33-1) 47236941

Germany
Rheinbabenallee 18
14199 Berlin
Tel.: (49-30) 897305-0
Fax: (49-30) 897305-62
Email: Info@Botschaft-Jemen.de
Consulate Frankfurt: Tel: (49-69) 9592480
Fax: (41-69) 95924820

Great Britain
57 Cromwell Road, GB-London SW7 2ED
Tel: (44-171) 5846607
Fax: (44-171) 4893350

Greece
9 Patission Street
GR-10431 Athens
Tel: (30-1) 5246324, 5220623

Hungary
Tomorkeny utca 3a
H-1021 Budapest 11
Tel: (36-1) 2123991
Fax: (36-1) 2123883

India
J-16-Haus-Khas, Sri Aurobindo Marg,
New Delhi 110016
Tel: (91-11) 26602481
Fax: (91-11) 26602483
Consulate Mumbai: Tel: (91-22) 18-4583/ 3956/ 7570
Fax: (91-22) 187661

Indonesia
29 Jalan Yusuf Adiwinata Menteng
Jakarta Pusat
Tel: (62-21) 3108035, 3108029, 4124074, 3904074
Fax: (62-21) 3904946

Iran
P.O.Box 87, Khayban Wali Asr Shahid Ejazi, Tehran
Tel: (98-21) 241-6682/ 4446
Fax: (98-21) 2409534, 2421022

Iraq
P.O.Box 13037
Baghdad
Tel: (964-1) 5413514, 5435146
Fax: (964-1) 5414275

Italy
Via Bosio Antonio, No. 10
Rome
Tel: (390-6) 4423-1679/ 3695
Fax: (390-6) 44233695
Consulate Florence: Tel: (390-55) 2398747
Fax: (390-55) 2398153

Japan
38 Kowa Building, 8th Floor, Room 807 4-12, chome Nishi-Azabu Minato-ku, Tokyo 106
Tel: (81-3) 34997151/2
Fax: (81-3) 34997837

Jordan
Emir Hashem Bin Al-Hussein St.
P.O.Box 5803, Amman
Tel: (962-6) 592377-1/ 2
Fax: (962-6) 5923773

Kazakhstan
Dostyk Ave.
Suit 709 A, Almaty
Tel: (7-3272) 919823
Fax: (7-3272) 919823

Kenya
P.O. Box 44642, Nairobi,
Tel: (254-2) 574-646/ 650/ 656
Fax: (254-2) 574680

Republic of Korea
3rd Floor, Taedong Bldg
32-28 Iiannam - Dong, Seoul 140-210
Tel: (82-2) 7929883/4
Fax: (82-2) 7929885

Kuwait
P.O.Box 7182, Al-Jabirya St., Kuwait City
Tel: (965) 534941-6/ 7
Fax: (965) 5349415

Lebanon
P.O.Box 114/5007, Beirut
Tel: (961) 852-688/ 691/ 692
Fax: (961) 821610

Libya
P.O.Box 4839, Tripoli
Tel: (218-21) 361599-6/ 7/ 8
Fax: (218-21) 3165991

Malaysia
Jalan Kedondong, Off Jalan Ampan Hilir
55000 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: (60-3) 425-11793/ 22481
Fax: (60-3) 42511794

Morocco
P.O.Box 6290, Rabat
Tel: (212-7) 376743-06/ 63
Fax: (212-7) 37674769

Netherlands
Surinamestraat 9, NL-2585 The Hague
Tel: (31-70) 3653936/7
Fax: (31-70) 3563312

Oman
P.O.Box 105 or 110, Muscat
Tel: (968) 604172, 600815, 600147
Fax: (968) 605008

Pakistan
P.O.Box 1573, Islamabad
Tel: (92-51) 2821146/7
Fax: (92-51) 2795677

Poland
03-941 Warzawa, Zwciezcow
Tel: (48-22) 6176025/6
Fax: (48-22) 6176022

Qatar
P.O.Box 3318, Doha
Tel: (974) 4325567, 4432720
Fax: (974) 4429400

Romania
Bd. Aviaitorilor No. 50, Bugharest
Tel: (40-1) 2300746, 2313272
Fax: (40-1) 2307679

Russian Federation
St. Avlerwini Abalimoveski Preulik, Moscow
Tel: (7-095) 246-4427/ 2799
Fax: (7-095) 2302305

Saudi Arabia
P.O.Box 94356, Riyadh
Tel: (966-1) 4826764, 4881769, 4881744
Fax: (966-1) 4881562
Consulate Jeddah: Tel: (966-2) 6874291, 6803904
Fax: (966-2) 6894567

Singapore
36 Purvis St., 02-07 Tailb Centre,
Singapore 188613,
Tel: (65) 3392776;
Fax: (65) 3392776

Somalia
P.O.Box 493, Mogadishu,
Tel: (262-1) 81246, 80701, 81597

South Africa
P.O. Box 13343, 1063 Pretorius St., Hatfled,
Pretoria 0083; Tel: (27-12) 4309-101/ 044;
Fax: (27-12) 4309100

Spain
114 P. de la Castellana, Piso 3-P-1/E-1,
28046 Madrid;
Tel: (34-91) 4119950/ 1/ 2;
Fax: (34-91) 5623865

Sri Lanka
Thorestan Street,P.O. Box 269,
22/2 Colombo,
Tel: (94-1) 576959;
Fax: (94-1) 576959

Sudan
PO.Box 1010, Khartoum,
Tel: (249-11) 47162-4/5;
Fax: (249-11) 471020

Sweden
Utrikbsdepatement,
10339 Stockholm,
Tel: (46- 143715;
Fax: (46- 202248

Switzerland
UN-Mission/Europe, 19,
ch Du Jonc - 1216 Cointrin, Geneve,
Tel: (41-22) 798533-3/4/5;
Fax: (41-22) 7980465

Syria
Boite Postale 4956, Damascus,
Tel: (963-11) 613389-0/1/2;
Fax: (963-11) 6133893

Tansania
P.O.Box 349, Dar Al-Sallam,
Tel: (255-51) 211-0615/ 7650;
Fax: (255-51) 211-5924

Thailand
45/ 4 Sukhumvit, Wallana 10116,
SO13 Bangkok,
Tel: (66-2) 650330-1/4;
Fax: (66-2) 6503305

Tunisia
Lotissement 6 - 9, Rue Ali Ben Abu Taleb,
1004 Tunis,
Tel: (216-1) 71-7677604/ 234562;
Fax: (216-1) 71-787144

Turkey
Fethiye Sok., Buyukeeligi, No 2/G.O.p.,
TR-Ankara,
Tel: (90-312) 446-2637/ 3178;
Fax: (90-312) 446-1778
Consulate Istanbul: Tel: (90-216) 2482046/ 2312705/ 2333117;
Fax: (90-216) 2406808

United Arab Emirates
P.O. Box 2095, Abu Dhabi,
Tel: (971-2) 448454, 448457/8;
Fax: (971-2) 447978
Consulate Dubai: P.O. Box 1947, Dubai, Tel: (971-4) 3970-213/ 131;
Fax: (971-4) 3972901

U.S.A.
2600 Virginia Avenue, #705, N.W., Washington, DC 20037,
Tel: (1-202) 965-4760/1, 965-4781/5/6;
Fax: (1-202) 337-2017

YEMEN DINING:Dining in Yemen Guide

Anonymous — Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:40 pm

Author: Anonymous

Posted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:40 pm

YEMEN DINING:Dining in Yemen Guide

Food & Mealtime Etiquette

Generally speaking, the noontime meal is the largest and most important of the day. Breakfasts and dinners tend to be smaller and less elaborate than the typical lunch. In most major cities, you will find Yemeni, Arab, and “Western- style” restaurants at different levels of price and quality.

Restaurants tend to be most crowded during lunch, or from about 11:30 am to 1:30 pm Most establishments close for the afternoon, reopening at 5:00 and serving dinner until approximately 10:00 pm. All but the most expensive restaurants insist on cash payment, though even in hotels you will want to pay in cash as the exchange rate on credit cards is extremely unfavorable to foreigners.

Before sitting down to a table, it is customary in Yemen to first wash your hands, and sinks are provided for this purpose in every restaurant. One always eats with the right hand, as the left hand (reserved for washing oneself is considered unclean). This custom takes on added importance in Yemen, since in most restaurants food is taken without eating utensils, although they are generally available. The same table manners you would practice at home are generally applicable in Yemen as well: blowing one's nose, loud speech, or belching during a meal are all considered impolite. In Sana'a, there are several famous and popular dishes you will want to try. Salta is a meat or chicken broth with vegetables served in a superheated stone bowl, and eaten with a special flat, flaky bread. There are numerous types of Salta available, and some restaurants, as you will discover, are more popular than others for their particular recipe. Other typical dishes include fuul (a mixture of beans, uncooked vegetables, and oil), grilled or broiled chicken, grilled fresh fish, fried eggplant, rice, yogurt, various types of salads, okra, and ground chick pea paste, known as hummus.

Gastronomic

Restaurants: Although Sana’a is not the hotspot for restaurants there are a few nice places that could keep you happy.

Villa di Angelo:An Italian style restaurant (with cutlery) that also offers Chinese/Indian food. The Restaurant is towards the end of Hadda Road, in the direction of Hadda, at the left side of the street, just a few hundred meters before Sam Suites. They are willing to open your wine bottle and provide you with adequate glasses. Their food is generally good, but don’t expect your salad to come with the main course. You will have to finish the salad before the main meal is served. They also deliver food to your house upon request.

Waleema Restaurant:Next door to Villa di Angelo is Waleema, they offer good Lebanese food. Most people will use it as a take away throughout the year. In Ramadan a tent will be put up to receive guests for Iftar (breaking of the fast at sun set) and you might visit them more than once at that time. Ask for a sheisha (waterpipe) after your meal to complete the feeling of joy for being in Yemen.

Koreana Restaurant: Follow the signs on Iran street (previously 24th street). Not many foreigners visit this restaurant anymore as the food seems to be pretty bad these days. Ask around with other people on the current state of the food.

Beijing Restaurant: Situated in the area between Sixty Meter and Hadda Road. They offer Chinese food and no atmosphere. If you are sensitive to it you might fall ill afterwards due to the taste enhancer (MSG) used, but the food is surely tasty.

Al Shaibani: The Yemeni experience to go for with your guests and kids. A noisy and busy place, that does not require you to dress up. Just go there in your casual wear and dig your hands in the food as the Yemenis do. Super for the little kids because the food comes fast and you can eat with all tens. No menu available, just ask for the usual stuff: Marg (broth), samak (fish), fool (made of a special type of brown beans), fasoolia (baked white beans) sahawak (tomato/vegetable paste), lahm (boiled lamb) and tea. There are three Shaibanis on Hadda road. The first two have clear signs on their elevation, but the third, the old Shaibani is a little further North, after the intersection with Mogadishu Street, and is not so clearly visible. See which one you like best. If you don’t feel like sitting in the busy crowd it is best to go there at approx. 6 in the evening when business slows down a bit for prayer time or take a table in the family room, behind the separation. Take a look in the kitchen if you feel like and be amazed about the huge fires.

The Ethiopian restaurant: A bit outside the Hadda area is the Ethiopian restaurant. The quality of the food is good, but the atmosphere you must bring yourself. No need to dress up. At the end of Hadda Road towards the city you will have to cross Zubairy and go opposite into Al Qaa, the former Jewish quarter. Continue the road until the road blocks tell you to turn right. Follow that road again and you will find the wall of the Chinese Embassy at your right and the small Ethiopian restaurant at the left. For recognition: You are close to the Teleyemen office. At the back of the restaurant (just before the kitchen, better not to look in there if you do not want your appetite to be spoilt) you can sit at the Ethiopian tables and small three-legged stools. Ask for the traditional food and order the coffee straight away. The coffee is prepared the traditional way and that takes a while. By the way, we never had any stomach complaints after eating there so enjoy!!

Al Mankal: A restaurant with al kinds of Arab/Lebanese food of good quality. A quiet place with separate tables. Situated just off Algiers street on Amman Street, at the right side in the direction of Zubairy.

Indonesian Restaurants: Recently a number of Indonesian restaurants opened their doors. One is on 24th (Iran) Street, another is opposite the Yemen German hospital (Formerly King Food). I never heard anything about them. The one on 24th Street allows you to take your own (alcoholic) drinks with you. The atmosphere seems to be good there.

Take away and fast food: In Sana’a a number of fast food chains have popped up in recent years.
Funny Bunny: A hamburger restaurant that was the place for children’s parties for a while. Their quality, within the range of fast food, is fairly good. It was said previously that they were seeking a licence from McDonalds, but nothing of the kind developed, or they got scared by the political situation. They are situated left of Hadda Road, in the direction of the city, between the 60 mtr Road and Djibouti Street.

Pizza Hut: On the corner of the old Airport Road and Djibouti street, close to the stadium. They offer the well-known pizza’s. Some gossip always goes round about the quality of the pizza’s and the ingredients used, but everybody continues going there so it might not be that bad.

Kentucky Fried Chicken: Another famous chain. Currently the place for children’s birthday parties. They have a separate room for parties, and an indoor and outdoor playground. The indoor playground is not well kept and thus dirty, as some children complained. You will find them off Hadda Road, on Djibouti Street in the direction of the Old Airport Road.

Catering: Catering is usually done by the hotels in Sana’a: Taj Sheba (tel: 272372) Sheraton (tel:237500) and Shahran (tel:418320/1/2), with the first one being the most professional and experienced. Each of them offers a different package of food and (soft) drinks for different prizes. Send them a mail or fax with the number of people you are expecting and ask them for their offer. Take care that they reach in time so chase them a bit. The Sheraton also does a good job, but we see them around less and less. The Shahran is the least of the three with the quality of their food not always what you expect. Too many deep-fried snacks and sometimes cold when served. Their personnel should get some more training.
The Villa di Angelo Restaurant (tel:412581) is also willing to cater for your parties via their YCS (Yemen Catering Services).

Some other restaurants will also cater upon request, so it is wise to ask them if you fancy their food.

Source by : Rosan Aalbers

Yemen Shopping:Go Shopping in Yemen Guide

Anonymous — Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:38 pm

Author: Anonymous

Posted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:38 pm

Yemen Shopping:Go Shopping in Yemen Guide

Daily shopping

Supermarkets:
Most of the groceries you need you will find in Sana’a except for the things forbidden by religion like alcohol and pork or pork containing products. Some things you will need to stock up a bit as they tend to come into the market by waves. Today you find them in abundance, tomorrow they are nowhere to be found and after half a year they are available again.

In Sana’a every street has a load of small shops and supermarkets. Some items are offered everywhere but for some things you may need to visit a few different shops. The most frequently used supermarkets are:

Al Hamadi: A small overloaded supermarket on the Medina a few hundred meter from the 14 October street. You will find most things you need here. The vegetables in this supermarket are usually of good quality but not cheap. No fresh meat, only a small choice from the freezer.

Al Huda: Frequented by many foreigners. (In case of political turbulence bomb threads will mostly include this supermarket but never anything happened). Two shops of the same name and owner exist. One in Zubairy street, after half a kilometer on your right when turning right from Hadda Road. The other one is in the Sana’a Trade Centre on the entrance floor in one of the corners. Both large supermarkets with almost everything you need. They have a fresh meat corner, some fresh fish, small household items etc. Their choice of fruit and vegetables is very limited.

Shammr: This supermarket is on Hadda road, a few hundred meters before the Medina when going up to Hadda. They claim to be open 24 hours per day. This is almost true, except at iftar times during Ramadan. They offer a good variety of products and have separate spaces for cleaning and cosmetic stuff, for electronics and some clothing. Their fruits and vegetables are generally not very fresh but they offer some good choice for home-baking. Many people do get irritated here by the eternally gazing boys hanging around between the shelves.

Shumaila Hari: They have a large building of mainly glass just off Hadda Road, between Djibouti street and 60 meter road. The supermarket on the ground floor is spacious and well stocked. Meat here looks good. Upstairs they sell clothes, make-up etc.

Al Jandol: Further up Hadda Road on the corner with Iran Street (before called 24th Street). A fairly spacious shop that also offers clothing, perfumes, stationary and of course groceries. There is a deep freezer with meat and fresh meat and poultry as well as vegetables. They have their own parking lot in front of the building

City end: Another sizeable supermarket on Hadda road, a kilometre further than the Medina, on the left side of the street, opposite to the Hadda complex and the Sheraton Annex.

Fruits and vegetables: Along Hadda road you will find many fruit stalls. In some of them you might sometimes find nice things like avocado, mulberries, strawberries, cherries etc. They all are fairly expensive so try to bargain well. (Although we have never been able to get prices down a lot.) Keep an eye on the quality they put in the bag.
On the Medina small roadside vendors offer a variety of vegetables and they sometimes sell “new” things like leek or red paprika. Check them out if you need something special but keep in mind that some vegetables are seasonal.

Other fresh choice of vegetables you will find at Al Hamadi supermarket on the Medina. Other larger supermarkets also offer vegetables but check on their freshness. If your family is large enough or you have a good consumption of fruit and vegetables it is worth to try the whole sale market for vegetables (called Matbah). Their building is on the left side of the road to Wadi Dhar, just at the place where you find all the roadside market stalls. Here you buy all the spices, herbs, vegetables and fruits in big quantities at very low rates. If possible take somebody who talks Arabic to ease the bargaining.

Another vegetable market is the Suq al Qaa in the old Jewish quarter. Here you will also find fish and meat. Another small vegetable market can be found on the street from Tahrir to the old city, the Bab as Saba. Inside you will also find a meat market.

Bakeries: In Sana’a you can find a lot of different breads. The most traditional ones are the kudaam. These are small round breads made of fine ground whole-wheat baked on the oven floor. Their taste is good if you eat them fresh otherwise they get very dry and tough. Another type is the small French bread. The small sticks are available from almost any supermarket and from bakeries. These breads are all made of white flour. For the kudaam as well as the French goes that you can freeze them when fresh and put them a few minutes in a hot oven when still frosted. The crust becomes crunchy again. This allows you to stock up some bread and always have crunchy bread available.

On Hadda Road you will find a number of bakeries. The Lebanese bakery has an outlet on Hadda Road at the corner opposite to the large mosque (before reaching up to the Medina). They offer some nice things like croissant, soup sticks, pita bread etc.

Further down to the city centre on Hadda road in the direction of Zubairy Street you will find the Mokha and Paris bakery. They are situated in the block just after Mujahid/Khartoum Street. The shops are close to each other and they offer (birthday) cakes, toast-bread, cinnamon rolls, croissants, small pizza’s, eclairs etc. Check them out and see what you like best.

Al Jamool bakery shop you will find next to the Al Huda supermarket at Zubairy street. They offer a wide range of sweets, cookies and some bread.

The Taj Sheba Hotel sells all kinds of birthday cakes in every shape, size and colour. Their choice of bread however is very limited.

Butchers: Besides the well stocked butchers in the Al Huda and Shumaila Hari supermarkets, a number of butchers have their shops on the Medina. They will offer beef or lamb. Sometimes they have a slaughtered animal hanging from which you can buy a piece, but often you can just point out one living animal and they will slaughter it on the spot for you. As this is the freshest possible you will need to keep the meat in the fridge for a few days otherwise it remains tough (unless boiled for hours). For these butchers every piece of meat boils, fries or bakes so do not expect cutlets or steaks. You’ll just get chunks. Remember that meat prices may double in the month of Ramadan.

Fishmarkets: In Sana’a a few fishmarkets are existing where you can buy different kinds of fresh fish. Although the fish has to come from the coastal areas it is generally fresh and non-frozen and prices are very low. Take care: A number of these markets are only open in the morning.

One of the fish-markets is situated behind the Italian Embassy. To reach there take the Old Airport Road in front of the parade stadium, turn right just after the Italian Embassy (their flag will guide you). Then take a left turn and another right. There you should find the fish market.

The other one is near Al Qaa, which is the continuation of Hadda Road across Zubairy. When coming onto the square, the market is on your left-hand side. They are only open in the morning.

Another fishmarket you will find in the street next to Gumhuriyya Hospital on Zubairy Street. Here you can ask to have the fish cleaned and fried for you.

Opposite to Hamadi supermarket (on the Medina) in the small side street you will find a fish shop that sells good quality fresh fish although the choice is limited.

Spice shops: Sana’a can boast of a load of spice shops with good quality at low prices. In most of the spice shops you will also get fresh ground coffee and nuts or dates. In the Hadda area Dallas spices on Hadda Road is a good choice. They can be found on the right side of Hadda Road between the 60 Mtr Road and the Medina. Other ones can be found on the Medina, close to Hamadi supermarket. More towards the city centre you will find them on Hadda Road, just before Zubairy Street.

Yasseem’s , next to Al Huda on Zubairy street has fresh ground Yemeni coffee and spices, and Indian and Japanese snacks.

Asian food: If you’re hooked on Indonesian or Thai food you will find most of the spices in any of the spice shops around the city.
For more specific ingredients like shrimp paste, tofu or tempe go to the Asian Food Shop on Mojahid or Khartoum street. Coming from Hadda via Hadda Road take the first big street (with traffic light on a T-crossing) on your right after the UN road. Close to the Samsung shop (at the left side) you will find the Asian Food Shop. Their choice is not very big but maybe they offer what you’re looking for (like the yummy sticky rice).

General Shopping

Toys: Best decision is to take plenty of toys and presents from your own country as the toys offered in Yemen are generally of low quality, non-educational but still expensive.

Although you find plenty of toyshops in Sana’a, the quality of the toys is generally inferior and good educational toys are difficult to find. You may have to visit a nice number of shops to find something for boys and girls of the different age groups.

The most visited and most expensive toyshop is Happy Land. Situated on UN Road (opposite to Al Rowaishan), a hundred meters from Hadda Road when going in the direction of the city. They offer a good variety of toys but at high prices. Their selection for boys is pretty violent and aggressive. Attached to the shop is also a shop for baby necessities and a small playground to keep the children busy.

Yemen Happy Toys: A toyshop on the left of Hadda Road, before the 60 meter road, when going in direction of the city. They offer a variety of toys for all ages, including game-boys. Good for girls’ dress-up dolls and small toys for party bags. Here you also find the big drive-yourself battery operated cars and other big things.

A few hundred meters further in the direction of Hadda is another small toyshop that offers fairly good quality toys. Also good for a selection of kids bicycles.

A specialised Lego shop you will find in the Sana’a Trade Centre on the first floor. Their variety is not big but at least you find renowned quality albeit at high price. Check for their opening hours as we seldom found the shop open.

Chicco: They have their shop on the right side of Mujahid or Karthoum street when coming from Hadda Road and offer all kinds of baby stuff and toys of their own brand.

Right on Hadda Road in the direction of the city you will find a few toy shops just before the UN Road. The shops are overloaded with toys of all sorts, usually not the best quality. They also sell game-boys and are known for overcharging so bargain hard.

Handicraft: Yemen does offer some handicraft but not in a vast choice or a particularly good quality. Some choice you will find in the suq, (behind the Bab al Yemen entering from Tahrir Square) e.g. the small samples of Yemeni houses, stone cooking pots, incense and incense burners, Yemeni silver work, shawls, djambia’s etc. Always bargain on the price as they usually overcharge and many shops offer the same quality of products.

Another place to find some handicraft produced by a development project (although fairly expensive and not of good quality) is the Tihama Caravan. They offer a choice of glass and silverware, some jewellery, some badly stitched bags, hand-woven cloth from Tihama etc. Check out their shop regularly to find some new items. Their shop is towards the end of Iran street when driving in from Hadda Road.

Another option is the Women’s Handicraft Center in the old city. They are close to Wadi Saila. Ask around for the right directions if you are in that area.

Clothing: Best advice is to stock up your clothing in your home country as many things will not be available in Yemen or will be of a low quality. If you happen to run out of things or your kids are growing fast, visit Shumaila Hari. Shumaila Hari is just off Hadda Road between Djibouti street and the 60 meter Road when going in the direction of Hadda. Their upper floor above the supermarket is all clothes for men, women and children. Some expats appreciate their collection and some don’t, so check them out if you need something.

Benneton: They have a shop towards the end of Mujahid (Khatoum) street when driving in from Hadda Road. Here you will find their usual offer and prices.

Shoes: Most shops that offer shoes in Sana’a are not well equipped. You will not easily find some real leather shoes but mostly plastic ones or other bad imitations. There are a number of shops on Jamal street with a wide choice of sandals. Best is to stock up what you need at home. For fast growing children it is best to buy a few consecutive sizes and regularly try if they fit (sandals will be fine most of the year). One of the few western shoe shops that can help you out on shoes are Bally and Ecco situated in the Sana’a Trade Center on the first floor. Be ready to expect European prices though!

Flowers: Flowers are available in Sana’a but they are generally expensive and do not last long. In front of the Yemen German hospital on Hadda Road you will find a small pink boot from where flowers are sold.

Other places to find flowers are: on Hadda Road over the Sixty Meter Road in the direction of the city you will find Al Sfeer flowers center (tel:504810 or 73506540) on your right side, behind a high gate. They sell big plants to cheer up your house but their prices are high. They also sell flowers. Another one is to be found on Algiers Street and is called Jabriela Flowers (tel: 203031).

Videos, cd’s, dvd’s, mc’s: Plenty of possibilities are available to buy arabic music cassettes. They will be offered to you at a number of traffic lights throughout the city. Western style music is more likely to be sold in music shops but in most cases the cassette will be an illegal copy. They will copy any cassette on the spot, as they will do with cd’s and dvd’s. The quality is generally acceptable. Shops for music you will find in the suq (mainly cassettes) and along Hadda Road. Opposite to the large mosque at Hadda Road (between 60 mtr road and the Medina) different cd’s and dvd’s are available. Copies are being made in 5 minutes. Buying videos in Sana’a is generally not recommendable. Most videos will be illegal copies of a very bad quality or they are taped from television. Don’t be surprised if half way your film the news starts or advertisements are recorded with the film. A relatively good quality of CDs, video’s and DVDs can be found in the Sana’a Trade Center on the first floor.

Shopping hours
Sun-Thurs 0800-1300 and 1600-2100.

Source by : Rosan Aalbers

Expatriate Insurance, Medical & Health Insurance Guide

Anonymous — Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:22 pm

Author: Anonymous

Posted: Fri Jan 06, 2006 2:22 pm

Expatriate Insurance, Medical & Health Insurance Guide

For new ex-patriots, leaving our Countries to be based in a developing country, perhaps for some years, it is often a shock to discover that medical treatment of a reasonable quality is just not available, or very expensive, in their new location. Conditions can differ vastly from Baku to Beijing to the Bahamas. Many documented case histories sadly indicate the devastating experience both mentally, physically and financially of falling seriously ill when overseas, can become. Private Medical Insurance when abroad is like a parachute when flying. You may not need one but it better be there, as you and your family would may not survive without one. e.g.: Being evacuated from the Gobi desert, following a car accident resulting in broken bones, coupled to a suspected fractured skull is not an easy matter at any time.

The medical insurance plans you may need are readily available through a worldwide network of specialist Brokers, Independent Financial Advisors, or via the Plan Insurers themselves, who advertise extensively through magazines and expatriate media. Several specialist independent Brokers now have their own websites, offering multiple choices of health insurance plans. The taking of independent advice is always recommended, in order that you not only buy the right plan, but pay premiums appropriate to your new country area. Do not buy a plan without studying the policy wording carefully, particularly underwriting conditions, benefits, etc. If in doubt, ask and then complete all application forms fully, to the best of your ability.

The Premium/Benefit Trade Off

Too frequently, a potential customer or new client will look to lowest price or premium cost comparisons, before really considering the specific benefits and area of cover they may actually need. The ex-patriot client should carefully review benefits of cover offered, check out any limits to that cover and any exclusions made by the insurer. Some plans are cheaper for a reason. Often they include large voluntary deductibles on any claim you might make in future and may severely cap the benefits received under the plan. Cover limits can vary from ?50,000 total cover to as much as ?5,000,000 total cover. Any major operation in the USA or perhaps an organ transplant can soon eat up a " capped cover" plan. Exclusions to the policy should also be read carefully and advice taken from an independent Advisor. Our motto is for clients to "define their needs" first, particular Area of cover they need, then their annual healthcare insurance budget. Then, they should look to premium comparisons, last of all.

Many new entrant expatriate Insurers are taking a much easier line on HIV and AIDS issues as well as offering chronic conditions cover, if such conditions develop during the plan lifetime. Post September 11th 2001, many expatriates are now considering the purchase of income replacement insurance, term life and kidnap insurance, or travel insurance, in addition to their Health Insurance Plans.

Underwriting Terms of Plans

For the individual expatriate or family there are usually only two ways to take out international medical insurance. By means of a "moratorium" application or a "full underwriting" application. It is important to understand this rather jargonised phrases as claims can be rejected if you have inappropriate underwriting. A moratorium plan means that any "pre existing" condition, for which you have had treatment, advice or consultation upon during the last 2,3 or even 5 years in some cases, will be EXCLUDED from cover. Should you then not have any treatment, advice or consultations for such conditions for a further two years, your insurer may add that condition to your policy. Full underwriting applications mean that all medical history questions have to be completed (not needed on a moratorium plan) and that most insurers may then exclude any particular stated condition, which they feel will lead to claims upon them. Full underwriting schemes are a little more complex as sometimes confirmation and clarification letters may be needed from your Doctor in order to have a specific condition covered under your new plan, or for that insurer to offer cover at all (E.g.; HIV or AIDS conditions cover or other long-term endemic/chronic conditions.)

For larger groups of expatriates and large corporate plans, Insurers will frequently offer cover on a "Medical History Disregarded" basis, meaning that a new plan member might even be in hospital for a triple bypass, but still have that condition included in the total corporate plan. Clearly with larger numbers of people in a plan, insurers are prepared to take higher risks and offer lower premiums. Company plans can have premiums some 15% to even 40% less than individual plans, due to the larger numbers of employees and higher annual premium overall, charged by that Insurer.

Vital Questions for the Insurance Provider

1. Does the plan allow for cooling off periods, cancellation and then repayment of premium in full?

2. Does the plan offer "Moratorium or is it "Full underwriting" and do I need to have a medical examination before joining.

3. Does the new Insurer offer a 24 hour help line, 7 days a week, available from anywhere in the World (free phone)? Most Insurers now offer this facility

4. Are my pre-existing conditions excluded when joining and if so, for how long are such conditions excluded?

5. Or all and any Nationalities accepted or are there restrictions applying to local nationals? Some Insurers will only take expatriates abroad and not local nationals into an overseas plan (e.g.: - They may cover six British Nationals in Zambia, not the 100 Zambian local national employees)

6. Does the plan allow you to continue cover unbroken through your lifetime? In most cases insurers will continue to offer existing clients cover year on year, irrespective of age or claims history. I.e.: - Once a customer, you may remain a customer, although premium rates charged can increase dramatically with old age.

7. Does the Insurer allow for any Doctor or Consultant or Hospital within the plan? Are there any restrictions in this respect? Most international plans do not place restrictions on either hospitals or Doctors, but almost all demand that their help lines are called first prior to approval of any inpatient care. (I.e.: pre qualified claim or placing of a bond with a specific hospital by Insurance Company)

8. Does the Insurer provide for direct settlement of bills presented by hospitals worldwide, regardless of location? (Or do I have to pay first?)

9. What are the Insurers procedures for Outpatient claims? Do these require any pre authorization or if stated in the plan can I just pay and claim? How long before I get my money back from the Insurer? (14 days? 28 days?)

The vast majority of expatriate health plans DO NOT exclude certain occupations as do many UK based insurance plans. Expatriate plans do however add to premiums for such as Winter Sports or diving holidays.

Nomenclature, names and Plan Titles

The Product Providers and Insurers delight in launching new plan names with "exclusive" qualities in their brand names over those of their direct competitors. However, international medical insurance plans broadly have three key components, which are in-patient or daycare treatment, outpatient treatment, and then and add-on options.

In this way, a basic or standard plan usually includes in-patient and daycare, but no Outpatient or other cover. Comprehensive plans mostly cover outpatient in addition to the inpatient costs, often with a capped limit, whilst "deluxe" "platinum" or "Premier Plus" plans offer a full cover range of inpatient, daycare, outpatient with routine dental. Possibly maternity, evacuation, personal accident cover and even chronic conditions cover in certain cases. (All the bells and whistles plan) We tend to ignore the names of plans but ensure we have clear ideas of benefits specifically, capping, area of cover and any exclusions, when comparing plans against a clients requirements. For example a USA passport holder living in Paris, who never needs cover in the USA apart from the occasional holiday trip, could take Area 1 European cover, which is often half the price of full world wide cover including the USA. Area 2 is usually described as Worldwide cover excluding the USA or Canada" with Area 3 being the most expensive offering global cover including the USA, all year round

A small travel add-on option can often help with up to 30 days emergency cover in USA or Canada should such be needed. Elective care in USA can also be added for just thirty days a year too, at a substantial discount to full Area 3 cover premiums. Some Insurers now offer modular benefit packages where clients can "pick and choose" benefits, working out their own premiums, at the end of this mix and match.

Emergency, Evacuation and Repatriation

1. Does the Plan include evacuation and repatriation and mortal remains repatriation or are these benefits add on extras?

2. What costs are included in the evacuation or repatriation cover? Some plans only cover travel costs, not accommodation; some plans only give cover one way.

3. Does the Plan cover both your outward journey and pay for you to return from where you started?

4. Does the plan cater for one person or can a business colleague or a family member accompany the Plan holder when travelling for treatment after evacuation? Emergency treatment when abroad can be very stressful at the best of times and being accompanied can be a huge comfort.

Outpatient Costs and General Practitioner Costs

Expatriates with families and small children will know that "Outpatient costs" and visits to the local Doctor are usually the main cost area at home, but particularly whilst abroad. Expats in developing countries are more prone to ill health and most will have at least one or more visits to a GP during a tour of duty. You need to know that GP costs will be fully reimbursed, or that you know the level of deductible, which will be made from any and all outpatient claims. (Each and every claim or an amount, which cumulates annually) Read your Plan carefully.

1. Many Insurers offer a limit or budget Outpatient benefits and these issues should be carefully studied in the new plan. Note any restrictions

2. Check the wording of drugs and dressings offered to note whether "Full Cover" or financial limits are set in the plan.

3. Few plans offer "Elective" or "Well woman " Well man" checks. Most international plans cater for healthcare once the patient has symptoms or is ill. They do not offer preventative checks or Health Checks at the control of the client. (Some larger company plans do offer well man checks)

Outpatient Cover, Complementary Medicine, Dental plan or Routine Maternity plan

If you are able to afford the premiums, Outpatient cover added to in-patient/daycare cover makes sense. In-patient care gives catastrophic cover or a hospital cost cover, but gives no cost cover if you are "walking wounded". A medium range comprehensive plan may well limit the amount you may claim on the Outpatient costs, but a deluxe or fully comprehensive will give Full Cover for this benefit.

Many plans do offer benefit for accidental damage to teeth by accident, but not routine elective dental healthcare Routine Dental treatment is mostly quoted as an optional extra, as is any option to take out routine maternity treatment. Thus, if you break a tooth you are covered but if you visit the dentist for a crown, beware, you may have to pay. Routine maternity care cover can be a valuable part of overseas family planning, yet many women and families overseas, unfortunately only contact their Broker or Insurer when already pregnant. Few Insurers will allow routine maternity costs re imbursement when a woman is pregnant actually taking out the plan. Almost all Insurers will consider an existing pregnancy as a pre-existing condition, but will cover emergency in pregnancy. If a couple have held medical insurance for one year, the Insurer may offer an option, with CO-insurance for routine maternity costs to a budget limit. Talk this over with a specialist Advisor in Expatriate Health Insurance

More Insurers are now taking a more enlightened approach to the subject of complementary care and costs of such as chiropractioners, osteopaths, homeopaths, acupuncturists and the like. These benefits are usually severely "budget capped" by the Insurers, however.

Other Cost Considerations and Options

With the growing range of plans available across the world, across a vast premium spectrum, several new benefit cost areas are mentioned below, which are not always available from all Insurers, but can be quoted selectively in certain Plans.

Well Child care, well man and well woman checks, all can be quoted

Prosthetic Appliances, can be quoted but capped

Eyeglasses and tests quoted on many deluxe and top plans

Crowns, dentures and bridges, routine dental quoted on top plans

Death of Close Relative, round trip costs covered on many plans

Treatment in USA elective or emergency usually can be quoted

Vaccinations, quoted on some plans

Annual Health Checks, quoted on some top plans

Organ Transplants, AIDS and Chronic cover on some top plans

Hazardous Sports, quoted on some plans.

Legal Costs after accidents abroad, quoted in some plans

Complaints

All Insurer Plans should clearly stipulate the complaints and disputes procedures they follow together with any Regulator. They should illustrate how you may contact the right adjudicators in their company or contact your independent Advisor for help) There are also independent Regulatory Authorities available n most Western countries, such as the UK, who can assist you with a dispute with an Insurer (who is being difficult when settling your claim) If you have bought your Plan through the offices of an independent Broker or Specialist Advisor they will almost certainly be glad to help in legitimate disputes with an Insurer. If you are right, have proper records, the Insurers will pay up.

Overview

Generally, as with most Insurance services, you get what you pay for. Read the documentation carefully, particularly the benefits and exclusions clauses. International Medical Insurance is a complex and difficult field. Many Insurers are competing for your long-term business. They all will argue, "Their Plan is Best." Certain strategic insurance considerations have been also affecting the expatriate market since the World Trade Centre disaster. Many ex-patriots are now looking for international term life and income replacement cover, as well as medical insurance. Time will tell how long term insurance growth is affected in this expanding expatriate global market place.

If you purchase a comprehensive plan from a reputable Insurer, via an independent Broker, you are usually not disappointed. However, if you buy what is clearly a cheap cut plan, without advice, beware when trying to make a claim. (They may well have pages and pages of exclusions in the small print)

It is also important for your budget to choose the correct geographical area of cover. Routine travel options can be taken at much less cost than full-blown USA cover, if you do not really need elective USA cover. Voluntary excesses on claims can substantially reduce premiums, as can co- insurance payments. (Sharing risk costs with the Insurer)

In the final analysis, international expat medical insurance is best to have at your side so that "you may sleep at night abroad" rather than to think of ways to claim. If both parties fully understand the contract and deal in good faith, Insurers very much want to keep clients for the long term. It is always better however, to compare and study at least three packs of brochures from differing Insurers, or have a review done by an independent Broker specializing in the Healthcare Insurance field. All the material needs attention and careful reading. Understand what you are committing to, what the contract actually states, not what you may think it states (or some salesman told you) and what geographical limitations are set giving your area do cover.

You may not need to read this contract again until the moment you need medical aid. Remember, that Brand name alone does not necessarily indicate good service, but that in 2002, many lesser-known expatriate specialist Insurers offer excellent premiums, wide benefits, good claims records and fast efficient electronic client services. Professional support teams are vital in overseas emergencies. Your Helpline card is the key to medical help and assistance 24 hours a day, whilst Overseas. Make sure that you have it to hand and that you know how to use it. With most Insurers now offering toll free global lines 24 hours a day, these vital help-lines are the first port of call, prior to any treatment being arranged, with the exception of emergencies. Establish contact as soon as you can, then let the Insurers assistance teams do the rest.

Article Prepared By

J Leslie Smith B Sc Econ Honours Associate IEE
Chairman and Managing Director
Medibroker International