UAE, 22 Aug 2012: British Airways has announced its five most popular destinations for travellers from the Middle East. British Airway’s hub of London features prominently in the list, while the cities of New York, Washington, Toronto and Houston round out the top five. The list highlights the connection Middle Eastern travellers have with North America, where they travel not just for business or holiday, but to see family and friends, and further their education.
Paolo De Renzis, Regional Commercial Manager, Middle East said: “London will always be included in this list because it is the home of British Airways, as well as an incredibly popular destination for visitors from around the world. North America, however, is also a favourite with our passengers and not just for vacation. Many people from the Middle East have family in Canada and the US, while many also choose these two countries for the quality of education they offer.
“British Airways offers well-timed connections to North America through London Heathrow’s Terminal 5 with attractive fares to cities in Canada and the US. In addition, passengers are able to break the journey in London and discover the best the city has to offer.”
Over the next five years, British Airways will be investing more than £5bn in new aircraft, smarter cabins, elegant lounges and new technologies to make like more comfortable in the air and on the ground. The airline has invested £100 million in the new First cabin that is now fitted on more than 75 per cent of its longhaul fleet.
For those looking to discover the best of these cities, British Airways gives these tips:
London
London can’t be beaten when it comes to history, culture and shopping. It has renowned museums and art galleries, such as the Natural History Museum and the Tate Modern, and world-famous attractions, such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the Tower of London, that are a must on any visitor’s itinerary. The shopping is also first class with the likes of Oxford Street, Bond Street and Harrods.
New York
The city of the famed yellow cab is home to Broadway musicals, Times Square, the Statue of Liberty and Central Park. ‘The Big Apple’ is full of great restaurants, fantastic shopping, sporting pursuits, museums and art galleries. Once the world’s tallest building, the Empire State Building is one of the city’s greatest attractions and offers spectacular views from the 86th-floor observation deck.
Washington DC
A visit to Washington DC would not be complete without strolling down the Mall from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, a journey which takes in many of the city’s iconic monuments. This is a great place to get a real feel for American history, so spare some time for the many museums, including the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of Natural History, where visitors can view the Hope Diamond. The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is great for children and anyone who has an interest in things that fly.
Toronto
For incredible views of this Canadian city, head to the CN Tower. One of the world’s tallest structures, it stands more than 550 metres high. There’s even a restaurant at the top where diners can feast on fine food as well as views. With around half of the city’s residents not born in Canada, the city is a melting pot of cultures and offers a great place to sample cuisine from around the world.
Houston
One of the top attractions in the Texan capital, is the Space Center Houston, the official visitors’ centre for NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where astronauts are trained. At the Space Center Houston, families can learn about space exploration and experience how it feels to be in space. For shopping, be sure to visit the Galleria Mall which is home to Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany & Co., Dior and more.
