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The National
9 hours ago
- The National
National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah showcases Emirati history
While many visitors to Ras Al Khaimah head straight to the mountains or mangroves, those looking to understand the emirate's roots would do well to spend a little time within the coral-stone walls of the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah. Housed in a historic fort that's been destroyed at least twice in its lifetime – once in the 1600s and again in 1820 – the museum offers a charming cultural experience. Beyond the thoughtfully curated exhibitions, the beautiful courtyard and fascinating archaeological finds, it's the warmth of the staff – and the offer of Arabic coffee or tea in the majlis before you leave – that makes any visit stand out for us. The fort was once home to the ruling Al Qawasim family before it was used as a police station and later transformed into a museum in 1987. Today, it recounts thousands of years of this region's layered history, from ancient settlements and maritime trade to tribal traditions and pearling life. Why go there? This is for anyone curious about the UAE's heritage, especially the northern emirates. The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah may not shout for your attention, but it earns it, offering a quieter, more intimate look at traditional life than the larger institutions in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. You'll find archaeological objects from the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages, including artefacts from the nearby settlements and a rare 17th-century Jewish gravestone, believed to be the only one of its kind discovered in the UAE. Also discover a madbasa, or date press, which was unearthed on the premises, having been forgotten and buried for decades. Ethnographic displays bring to life the emirate's fishing and pearling history, agricultural tools, date syrup production, tribal weapons and traditional jewellery. Access the various exhibits from the spacious, foliage-rich courtyard, stepping inside former living quarters and towers through traditional Arabian doors – much of the building's original charm has been painstakingly preserved. But this museum isn't just about the past. It's also about living traditions, which is seen in the warm welcome you receive from staff, who are happy to share insights, stories and a cup of gahwa before you go. What you'll see Start your visit in the main hall, where you'll learn about the history of the building, before stepping outside into the courtyard and moving into the archaeology gallery, where items dating back to 5,000 BC chart Ras Al Khaimah's role in regional trade and settlement. You'll also see pottery from Julfar (the emirate's old name), bronze tools and artefacts from the pre and early Islamic periods. Other exhibits delve into the emirate's traditional economy, from pearling and boatbuilding to fishing, while a dedicated gallery showcases regional silver jewellery, clothing and weaponry. Currently, there's also a wonderful temporary exhibition on Emirati weddings, taking visitors through the traditional matrimony process, showcasing bridal dresses, ceremonial items and dowry, plus personal stories that highlight the evolution of wedding customs in the emirate. At the moment, some areas of the museum are undergoing renovation to preserve the structure and improve the visitor experience, so certain galleries may be closed or restricted. For part of the year, it's also too hot to properly explore the outdoor areas of the museum, which include climbing up to the roof and taking in the surrounding views of the old city. Star attraction While the museum is rich in historical details, the highlight of our visit is the interaction with the staff. Before leaving, we were invited to sit in the museum's majlis, where dallahs of freshly brewed chai and gahwa were offered as we got to know more about the people who work there. We also loved the small souvenir shop beyond the majlis and made sure to pick up a couple of extremely affordable keepsakes before leaving. What to know before you go It's not high-tech in the least, but more of a traditional museum experience, with simple presentation and bilingual signage. It's done well, though, and this is precisely why it's so charming. If you're in Ras Al Khaimah, we highly recommend stopping by. Allow at least one hour for your visit, depending on how thoroughly you want to explore each room. The museum is located on Al Hisn Road and is easy to reach by car or taxi from the city centre. Free parking is available outside the front door. Ticket price and location Entry is Dh5 per person. The museum is open Tuesday to Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 6pm, and on Fridays from 2pm to 8pm. It's closed on Mondays.
Harpers Bazaar Arabia
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Harpers Bazaar Arabia
Postcards From Mediana, The Latest Music, Culture And Arts Festival Set Against Jordan's Rugged Skyline
Tithorea has hosted immersive festivals in some of the world's most exotic locations – this summer it came to Jordan's breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site Picture the scene – the sun is rising between the dramatic sandstone canyons of Petra, Jordan. Light floods the ancient valleys, awakening a new energy in 1,500 fortunate guests who've travelled to the UNESCO World Heritage site for an unforgettable experience. Hypnotic music rebounds through the gorge, captivating lighting bounces off the ancient rocks, and the beautiful people below sway to the tribal and rhythmic beats and basslines. Dotted around the valley floor are traders selling traditional Jordanian fabrics and cuisine, each stall bathed in a warm, multicoloured glow from the impressive laser show that pulsates overhead. This is Mediana, the latest music and culture event from Tithorea. Founded by Shahin Mani and Sherif Koyess, Tithorea curates unique and highly exclusive music experiences by combining breathtaking locations, immersive production and thoughtful collaborations with local communities. Having previously staged events in Turkey, Iceland, Costa Rica and Romania, the team's sights were firmly set on Jordan as its next location, inspired by its ancient heritage, cultural richness, and otherworldly landscapes. We start our Medaina experience at the beautiful Hyatt Zaman hotel, just outside the valley of At-Taybeh. As cultural experiences are customary at Tithorea events, the festival includes a daytime trip to Jordan's archaeological jewel, Petra, and its world-famous highlight, Al Khazna or the Treasury. As we're surrounded by the magnificent, ancient carvings, tombs and rock paintings, it's hard to believe that in mere hours we'll be back in the same sacred area, soundtracked by DJs Sonja Moonear and Mind Against. When night falls, we make our way to the main event and are greeted by a mind-blowing production, assembled with the utmost care for the natural environment. In isolation, the coloured uplighting, lasers and strobes, booming sound system and elevated decor would impress, but to stage it in the middle of an isolated valley and a UNESCO World Heritage site is remarkable. 'The first thing I did was try to understand how I'm going to express the art that pays tribute to the culture, to the artists and the nature here,' says Tithorea's Creative Director, Melissa Ouellette, in a conversation with us. Decorative rugs are placed around the event for visitors to rest and connect, each mat a tribute to the Bedouins' creative past and present. 'The culture of the area is the heritage of the loom machine, so everything was made from fabrics,' she continues. 'To work with the local people and be able to express our vision in these insane locations is super humbling.' The setting feels simultaneously like a step back in time and a taste of a distant future, with local businesses and traders dotting the walkway towards the candle-lit DJ booth, packed full of revellers, kaftans rippling as they dance to the music. The vibe pulsates with positivity and euphoria until the early hours – this isn't your average festival, and everyone knows it. And Petra isn't just the backdrop, it's a collaborator. As the sky turned blue, it was time to leave, but there's no time to get sentimental – the enchanting deserts of Wadi Rum await. On very little sleep, we're on the road again, this time to the magical sands of the Jordanian desert, recently the set for the sci-fi epic Dune, as well as The Martian and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, among others. Wadi Rum's burnt red hues make it the perfect spot for epic tales – and dazzling stargazing. After arriving at Wadi Rum Bubble Luxhotel, a dip in the obligatory hot tub at sunset centres the mind and soul, the Milky Way slowly rising into sight like a cosmic rainbow across the night sky. Partly down to necessity but a welcome quirk all the same, Tithroea is a rare festival that takes a day off between events. As producers and organisers begin the unenviable challenge of transporting sound systems, lighting and production props from a rugged valley to the heart of the desert in the summer heat, punters can take a day to rest, visiting local historical landmarks, trying their hands at Jordanian crafts, and enjoying local cuisine. While they might appear tacked on at first, these activities – including a camel ride and a First World War-era train ride with a surprise reenactment of the Arab Revolt – do provide a fuller appreciation for Jordanian culture and add more respect for the special sites Tithorea has chosen for Mediana. Set at the base of one of Wadi Rum's iconic towering rock formations and soundtracked by DJs me, Jimi Jules and the aptly-named Bedouin, night two was a stunning example of immersive production executed with elegance. At once vast and intimate, the scene is captivating and curious, again adding a sense of futurism to an ancient land. The Romero Group takes care of Jordanian cuisine and flavours, offering a menu that combines sizzling meats, vegan options, and local sweets and teas. Immersive chill-out areas give those looking for downtime some respite, while others climb atop a nearby dune for a better view of the DJs and the surrounding landscape. As the sun rises once more, we find ourselves thinking, Wadi Rum's ethereal and transcendental spirit was made for moments like this. By bringing modern music and event production to an ancient land, while respecting local cultures, communities and cuisine, Tithorea represents something truly unique in the oversaturated festival market. Often, authorities, governments and indeed UNESCO itself are sensitive about these types of events – and rightly so. These historical regions are not only sacred to the locals, but they're at the heart of a vibrant tourist industry that's a core part of Jordan's economy. Mediana showed that the two can co-exist, and it's a credit to the team at Tithorea for their considered and sensitive approach, and to the Jordanian government for taking the risk to modernise and attract a younger, more diverse crowd. Tithorea just gained another loyal follower. See you at the next one… wherever it may be.
CTV News
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- CTV News
Wikwemikong and Six Nations Tourism come together for Two Nations Paddle
Wikwemikong and Six Nations tourism will reunite for the two nations cultural experience on Manitoulin Island starting Thursday. Wikwemikong and Six Nations tourism will reunite for the two nations cultural experience on Manitoulin Island starting Thursday. Organizers said the event is meant to rekindle friendships, empower nations and educate visitors through song, dance and food. 'It's about reclaiming culture, it's about reclaiming stories,' said Luke Wassegijig, senior manager of tourism and community development with Wikwemikong Tourism. Wiky tourism Wikwemikong and Six Nations tourism will reunite for the two nations cultural experience on Manitoulin Island starting Thursday. (File) 'It's about getting the community involved. And that's the bigger piece for us, right? It's really about building community.' The event this year will be held on Georgian Bay and is just one of several events taking place in the next three days. Events kicked off Thursday night with a guided medicine hike and star teaching, while Day 2 on Friday features the canoe journey. Day 3 will be spent celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day. 'Everything starts at 930 a.m. with our unceded Journey Tour,' Wassegijig said. 'It's really an infused experience. It's a historical tour … But it's going to be infused with Haudenosaunee history and their history of wampum and so it's going to be really special.' Special smoke dance Saturday will also include a powwow featuring a special smoke dance and woodland showcase, a presentation of Baagaadowwin and Lacrosse, as well as a two nations culinary experience. 'I think my favourite part is celebrating the two cultures on one dish. It really represents that wampum, the one dish with one spoon,' said Jaquie Jamieson of Six Nations Tourism. Organizers said the event is all about amplifying the voice of Indigenous tourism. 'We appreciate all the people who come out and listen and learn and take away what they can and share it with other people,' Jamieson added. Wikwemikong Tourism will travel to six nations in October for a similar event to celebrate the harvest season. Organizers hope to expand the event next year by bringing the culinary experience to Berlin Food Week.
CTV News
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- CTV News
Two nations paddle event returns
Northern Ontario Watch Wikwemikong and Six Nations tourism will reunite for the two nations cultural experience on Manitoulin Island starting Thursday.
Vogue
19-06-2025
- Vogue
What Traditional Dance Reveals About a Travel Destination
Ultimately, dance is a prism for understanding people. Their resistance, passion, grief, transcendence, and joyful celebration. For those communities willing to share this with visitors (through ceremony or education at cultural centers), don't neglect the opportunity. And if you're asked to join—the only answer is yes. I've been welcomed into a swaying circle of Samburu women, leaped between moving bamboo poles beside the Manggarai, and heel-toed my cowboy boots across a dance hall in Montana—each experience deepening an appreciation for each culture's singular identity (and serving as a humbling reminder I should probably stick to ballet). So, to travelers mapping out their itineraries, take note: every culture has its own form of traditional movement, a few of which are highlighted below. Clear your dance card. Photo: Amansara Khmer (Cambodia) Dotted with temples and surrounded by ancient ruins and sacred mountains, Cambodia is a landscape imbued with spirituality. Travelers checking into Amansara should book the Dance & Devotion experience, which brings guests to the sacred dancers of Angkor Conservatoire. Here, classic Khmer dance is preserved in its native form (not a performance, but a spiritual offering) and guests have the opportunity to watch both rehearsals and the basrei ceremony. Afterward, a master teacher guides guests through a few hand movements and storytelling techniques. Viennese Waltz (Austria) Experience the glittering glamour of Viennese waltz during the city's Ball Season, which runs from November through April. During this time, Austria's gilded capital hosts over 400 balls that evoke its imperial past (particularly the Opera Ball that is held in the most beautiful ballroom in the world: the Vienna State Opera). Guests staying at Almanac Palais Vienna can book their Night at the Ball package, which includes a private dance lesson, couture gown, and horse-drawn carriage to the ball (with a limousine return at the end of the night, plus an in-room breakfast and spa treatment the following morning). Legong (Bali) Hinduism's cultural influence sweeps across all aspects of life on the island of Bali, especially through expressions like traditional dance. There are several styles that visitors can observe—from the Kecak 'fire dance' to the Barong and Kris 'dagger dance'—but definitely don't miss out on Legong while on the island. With its vibrant facial expressions and complex finger and foot movements, the story of a king who finds a lost maiden is colorfully brought to life. If you're eager to dive deeper into meaning behind these intricate movements, take a Balinese dance lesson at Hoshinoya Bali, held in a gazebo overlooking the jungle. Tango (Argentina) Argentina and Uruguay have long sparred over who invented tango, but if you find yourself in the former, book an experience with Untamed Traveling to experience the authenticity of Argentine Tango. Activities can range from lessons to an overnight stay in a tango hotel in San Telmo (the oldest neighborhood in Argentina). If educational tourism is your love language, they can even take you to a lecture about the history of the tango, followed up by a visit to a milonga where locals go dancing. Bon Odori (Japan) Japan is home to hundreds of styles of traditional dance, from Kabuki's dramatic theater sequences to the Geisha's graceful Kyomai movements. For travelers looking for an authentic, immersive dance experience, the Gujo Odori Festival in the Gifu prefecture lasts from July to September. This dance festival takes place during the obon period when the Japanese honor ancestral spirits, and there are ten recognized dances (which you're encouraged to learn on the spot from your neighbor). Even better: many attendees opt to wear yukata kimonos and elevated wooden sandals called geta. Sau Sau (Rapa Nui) Rapa Nui (also known as Easter Island) is the southernmost point of Oceania's Polynesia Triangle. Its rich culture and heritage is celebrated at Nayara Hangaroa (a luxury hotel owned by a local family) where guests of the property are invited to learn about the traditional dress, and can see expressions of the Haka'Ara Tupana dance group two times a week during peak season. One of the most common styles of dance is the Sau Sau; a joyful rocking of the arms and hips with dancers in skirts crafted from feathers or grasses. Sema (Türkiye) This enigmatic dance, practiced by members of the Mevlevi Order of Sufi Muslims known as 'whirling dervishes,' dates back to the 13th century and the teachings of the poet and mystic Rumi. Often called a 'moving meditation,' the ritual (known as the sema) features dancers in tall hats and flowing white robes spinning in circles to reach a state of spiritual transcendence. The dance represents a journey of shedding the ego and connecting with the divine, and it requires months of dedicated practice to learn. Travelers can observe these sema ceremonies at destinations like the Mevlana Cultural Center in Konya or the Galata Mevlevihanesi Museum in Istanbul, which has ceremonies every Sunday at 6 p.m. Caci (Flores) This ritual whip fight is integral to the Manggarai's cultural identity on the Indonesian island of Flores. The energetic dance is held between two male fighters who take turns attacking and defending. The attacker uses a whip, while the defender uses a round shield made of buffalo hide. Caci is accompanied by chanting and drumming and the fights are ceremonial, not intended to be violent. Guests staying at the newly opened Ta'aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Labuan Bajo can discover Caci every Thursday at the property's amphitheater, or they can arrange an off-site dance excursion as well.
