By 2012 the Emiratis are going to turn French- despite aggressive opposition. Aside from housing glamorous shopping destinations and countless luxury hotels to lure the socialites, a branch of the Louvre is expected to open in Abu Dhabi to reign in the socialites as well as the culture enthusiasts. The Louvre has never established a branch outside France. Other western attractions that would soon be finding their way into Abu Dhabi are the Sorbonne in Paris and the Guggenheim Bilbao.

While some have accused the Emiratis of “buying culture” the effect of this gargantuan and extremely ambitious project on the country’s tourism is undeniable- whether the move was all about money or not. The supporters, the skeptics and the downright curious would no doubt be flocking into the country soon to satisfy whatever their fancies. Abu Dhabi will definitely find itself at the top of the list of the hottest destinations.

It would certainly be interesting to see certain western ‘pillars’ of art presented in a different light because despite the expected strict European clutch on these future establishments, a whiff of Asian culture is sure to seep into them.

Looking beyond the issues with money (although this proves to be quite difficult as money and art are hopelessly intertwined), the project may be considered a victory for culture. Art is for all to be seen and appreciated after all.

Have you ever experienced an accident that was rather rewarding? I know the idea is out-of-whack, but it’s not- well, maybe just a little.

A week after my retirement, I decided to fly to Tuscany on a small plane that carried me, nine of my friends and the pilot. Everything was going well until a bird decided to fly towards our left wing, one thing lead to another forcing us to crash land. I could not remember any details of the crash, probably because everything that followed after was all that mattered in the end. Fortunately, not much damage was done and no one got seriously hurt; aside from almost peeing our pants from fear, we were far from dead.

After making sure all our limbs were still connected to our bodies, we started looking around. This was when we realized that we were completely surrounded by sunflowers! We were in Tuscany and everything was beautiful. The sun was setting amidst an ocean of flowers. The radiant light mixed perfectly with the bright golden color of the flowers. Even the scar caused by our crash landing on the field looked different. Everything was glowing like gold. Everyone knew that after the crash, we were supposed to get all shook up and worried but surprisingly, we all felt the opposite. All we experienced was a nostalgic moment. We were almost disappointed when ‘help’ arrived. Of all the journeys I’ve been on, the Tuscany accident was the most rewarding.

I intend no offense to Jules Verne and all his fans, but “Around the world in 80 days” sounds pretty dismal to me. I find the idea of simply ‘hopping’ from one country to another a sad waste of time; ironically because the whole thing takes place in a paltry span of 80 days. Taking pleasure in such a rushed trip is just difficult to imagine.

The whole point of traveling is not merely to get from one point to another but to have a chance to enjoy the uniqueness of each place you visit. Expect new adventures at every new turn; another fresh experience as you pass through the “Thank you” arch of one place right into the “Welcome” arch of another.

How can this be done if you keep rushing from one place to the next? Slow down, take a long, appreciative look around, give a smile to the faces that you meet and stop to smell the flowers (figuratively or otherwise). When you find yourself in a foreign land, absorb as much culture as you can, broaden your understanding. Be adventurous enough to try out their native food; make friends and try to learn a word or two of their language. The same way your destination changes you, try to make your mark in the most pleasant yet memorable way.

Also, learn to appreciate the pleasure that may be had in the journey itself. Do not miss out on the beautiful scenery floating right outside your window or in the beautiful conversation your travel mates may offer. Take your time… 80 day? Might as well multiply it with a hundred.

Heading out for a long getaway? Sure you’ve packed all the stuff you may (or may not. actually) need for the trip. But before completely putting yourself in “vacation mode” here are five things that may not exactly fit into any luggage yet you must never leave your home without:

1. Turning off the electricity, gas tanks and other utilities that may cause accidents especially when left unattended. Not only would it lessen the possibility of your house burning down, it would also eliminate paranoia and ensure that you enjoy a more worry-free vacation.
2. Having at least basic information about your destination. These basics include – government provided travel advisories, health issues particular to the environment you will be going to as well as social and political conditions of the place.
3. Leaving contact information of your destination to your family and friends. Unless you plan to make a disappearing act, it is a must to tell concerned persons about your travel plans complete with the travel route, mode of transportation, flight schedules and such.
4. Giving your neighbors a heads-up. Your friendly neighbors would probably be friendly enough to keep an eye on your place and even look after your dog.
5. Deciding to leave your problems behind. A vacation should be relaxing and it should be your chance to recharge. Remember, It‘s your getaway.

Kim Up North is travel, leisure and recreation. Join Kim as he travels the different parts of the world and tries to share his personal experiences through this blog.