Destination Somaliland

Somaliland is a country that manages to consistently confound the naysayers.  Some would have the wider world believe that such a country has little chance of surviving in such a tough, and often hostile neighbourhood. With its forbidding climate and unusual status, on paper at least the odds appear stacked against it, yet analysts have rarely factor in the resilience of the Somalilanders themselves. As in all things, context is king, and this i s especially true of anything in relation to the Horn of Africa. Truculent neighbours, the machinations of foreign powers and the not always benign influence of the UN and the African Union all make for daily challenges. For all this Somalilanders remain remarkably positive, and have many reasons to be proud of their achievements to date.

If anyone wanted a person who symbolises the Somalilanders 'can do' spirit, they need look no further that the seemingly indomitable Edna Adan Ismail and her creation. Here is a woman (a very determined lady) whose drive and vision has resulted in a medical facility whose history is as remarkable as it services are proving transformative. Recognising the fact that accessing health should not be the preserve of the privileged few, Edna Adan has worked tirelessly to establish a hospital whose very existence adds lustre to the name Somaliland. Whilst some chose to focus on her gender, she set to the task of proving the sceptics wrong. The Edna Adan Hospital (http://ednahospitalfoundation.org/) is a facility that Somalilanders should do all in their power to support. For what has been established continues to develop, and has become an important knowledge hub, one that is hugely significant not only for the country, but also for the region and the wider world. This centre of heal th excellence works tirelessly to serve the country at large, an immense task that requires effective leadership and training. Here is a hospital whose reach is felt far beyond Hargeisa, and its work is seemingly never ending. In order to ensure that the vital work of the hospital continues it is essential that it is given the wherewithal to consolidate and expand its work. The harsh reality is that funding remains a constant challenge. Where some might shrug their shoulders or suggest relying on fitful foreign aid, in truth it is Somalilanders themselves who should embrace this cause and ensure that it is the envy of Africa and beyond. Kind words and praise do not pay for training, new equipment or lifesaving drugs, ultimately it comes down to donations in kind and in money. Keeping the shillings (and dollars) flowing is certainly an important way of demonstrating a commitment to cherish an institution which seeks to save and transform lives.

In society at large there are people who have political, economic and social power. It should be our earnest wish that such individuals exercise such power for the betterment of mankind. When considering those with power, in power or seeking power we would do well to remember Tony Benn's Five Questions:

"What power have you got?"

"Where did you get it from?"

"In whose interests do you use it?"

"To whom are you accountable?"

"How do we get rid of you?"

Now there really is some food for thought.

Somaliland is alive with potential. Locals and members of Diaspora are increasingly eager to demonstrate what can be achieved. Inbound and outbound flights are full of the excited chatter of people who see fresh opportunities and a future. A key ingredient is hope, and Landers have a reasonable degree of hope at present. They look around them, and feel rightly proud of what has been achieved. They have a remarkable story to tell, and I am pleased to see that more and more people want to hear Somaliland's story, as well as better understanding the Horn of Africa. The narrative is understandably charged with emotion, for today's progress must never be allowed to obscure the fact that the modern nation was forged in times of trial and tribulation. Like the people of Rwanda, Somalilanders have known considerable suffering and as a result have no intention of allowing history to repeat itself. They too appreciate what it means to have endured threats and violence from their own kit h and kin, and it behoves those from outside to make a far greater effort to appreciate the terrible price that was paid. Like Rwanda, in many respects Somaliland has had to learn to be self- reliant. Things have been tough, but here are a people who in their own way have managed to triumph in the face of adversity. In fact when it comes to nation building and future development there is much that Somaliland can learn from how Rwanda has gone about things.

Sadly, the fissure that is tribalism in politics and society appears to be deepening in all the Somali territories.  Many prefer to see clan and party political associations first and the actual person second. Somaliland continues to make real progress, but in truth currently this is being impeded by self-seeking political carpetbaggers utterly devoid of vision. It is regrettable that in recent months various figures have been hawking themselves around different political parties in search of personal advancement. Such individuals seem far more interested in self-aggrandisement and professional preferment than they do in service. Furthermore, those desperate to walk the corridors of accountability often balk at scrutiny and bristle at any form of constructive criticism. Already there are those who resent anyone who shines a light on their activities, and seem intent on stifling debate. In the febrile atmosphere that often precedes elections there are always those who will denigra te, demonise and even threaten those who ask legitimate questions. We must all be on the lookout for those who will endeavour to use bully boy tactics as a means to gag the press, silence democratic debate and bring pressure to bear on those eager to exercise their democratic right. In a world of dissemblers and deceivers who speak the words of togetherness, yet conspire to divide and exploit, we must never forget the power of love.

The Horn of Africa is a region beset with challenges, the latest of which appears to be the proliferation of foreign military bases. To its credit Somaliland has demonstrated a high degree of patience when dealing with its neighbours, and appears to be making a more concerted effort to forge positive and purposeful relationships based on mutual cooperation.  His Excellency President Ahmed Mohammed Silanyo deserves considerable praise for his years of service; for his is an extremely exacting role, one that he has always carried out to the very best of his ability. Those who rush to sit in judgment would do well to reflect on just what a responsibility being President is. Somaliland after all, is the nation it is today thanks to those prepared to serve and do their duty.

In many respects these are exciting times for Somaliland. Whilst the country is still very much a work in progress, it has a growing number of examples of what can be done when the right people get together. Anyone who has attended the Hargeisa International Book Fair will have witnessed Landers at their best. Similarly it has been heartening to see a number of new businesses being launched that are starting to make their mark, long may that continue. It is particularly encouraging to see so many female entrepreneurs eager to play their part in the national story. Any new jobs are especially welcome, all the more so as unemployment and under-employment continues to blight lives. Notable successes in the fields of fisheries and telecommunications underscore the business friendly nature of the country. The development of Berbera Port is another step in the right direction, but it is equally important that other towns and cities see development of their infrastructure. We all would do well to remember that Somaliland is far greater than the sum of its parts.

For all its undoubted achievements, Somaliland needs its friends and supporters to be candid. After all a friend who helps one to improve and aspire to greater is a friend indeed. Maternal and infant mortality rates remain truly shocking, and require a concerted drive to tackle the root causes of such deaths. Equally, a long-term drought and water management strategy is long overdue. Precious trees and ground-cover are being lost at an alarming rate, whilst human detritus is disfiguring and polluting a land whose rugged beauty needs protecting. The nation is alive with potential, and fortunate to be blessed with citizens, the vast majority of whom are playing a positive and purposeful role. There is an incredible hunger for education, and thus it is heartening to see so many Landers endeavouring to advance themselves either with formal education or via Massively Open Online Courses (MOOCs) such as those provided by www.futurelearn.com  and the like.  Citizens of all backgrounds want to play a purposeful role, given half a chance. That said, for all the good being done in many quarters, political and commercial advancement in Somaliland should not be dependent on the approval/patronage of the President's wife or son-in-law, or the preserve of those with particular clan or political associations. It is imperative that every Somalilander (and those that reside legally in Somaliland) feels that they have a stake in the country, and that both appointments and promotions are based on merit, and merit alone.

Somaliland has successfully embraced democracy, whilst recognising the stabilising role to be played by the Guurti.  Elders and Members of the House of Representatives can help diffuse possible tension, as well as ensure the country maintains an important cultural connection with its past. That said, there is a mood abroad in the country for fresh ideas, and it is imperative that people are prepared to listen, adapt and accommodate those who in the past might well have gone unheeded or been marginalised. Together such leaders must strive to be the guardians of all, for in so doing they will also be the protectors of those they hold especially dear.

It is marvellous to see members of the Diaspora returning in droves, and the locals proving as hospitable and determined as ever. Of course there are difficulties, some of them natural, others man made, but Somaliland as an entity is very much here to stay. Thanks to the marvels of modern communication Landers themselves from far and wide are beginning to appreciate something of their rich heritage. Sadly, photographs rarely do the country justice, for Somaliland is a land of the senses, and as such cannot be fully appreciated second-hand.  2017 presents us all with new opportunities. Let us all resolve to be more positive, more forward thinking, and if possible more discerning. One thing each of us can do is urge friends and associates outside Somaliland to visit, to explore and savour all that makes it such an extraordinary country.

Mark T. JonesLeadership SpecialistTwitter: #marktjones500http://www.marktjones.com/

Source: Destination Somaliland

Pearl River Delta and Macau are “land of opportunity” for African traders

The Pearl River Delta, Hong Kong and Macau are the preferred "base" for African traders in China who have found "plenty of opportunities" there, according to several researchers.

Data cited in an article in the Strategic Review for Southern Africa by Carlos Lopes, an academic from Guinea-Bissau and former president of the Economic Commission of the United Nations showed that 500,000 Africans currently reside in China, of which 100,000 in Guangzhou, with the next preferred destinations being Hong Kong and Macau.

Among the factors that have contributed to the attractiveness of the region in general and the city of Guangzhou, in particular, are the links to Guangdong province, which is a base for industrial products enjoyed in the migrants' countries of origin, according to data collected by academic researcher Adams Bodomo.

In a recent article in The Diplomat, Eleka Watts said traders have capitalised on the significant availability of low-cost products, electronics and others, which allow for substantial profits in trade with their countries.

"Among other factors, the rapid expansion of the economic relationship between Africans and Guangzhou has created plenty of opportunities for African migrant entrepreneurs to create communities in the city," said Lopes, citing Chinese researchers.

Between 1996 and 2008, trade between Guangzhou and Africa increased six-fold, from US$500 million to US$3 billion and exports through the city increased around ten-fold.

A study in 2014 involving 205 traders from more than 50 African countries resident in Guangzhou showed that the average income is about 30,000 yuan, close to US$4,500, well above the average of the Chinese workers.

"Most traders are self-employed, which increases the perception of success. This is certainly a surprising development for the local Chinese competitors. Gradually, it is influencing market behaviour towards African entrepreneurs and show the potential of the continent to small and medium-sized Guangdong companies," said Lopes.

Given the weight of African traders, Lopes even says there would be "a significant impact on China's southern economy," if they disappeared.

The importance of linguistic, cultural and commercial ties created by this community is also evidenced in the number of flights to the region by major African airlines like Egypt Air, Kenya Airways, South African Airways and Ethiopian.

in terms of education, the number of African students has been growing continuously, with Macau being a university hub for the Portuguese-speaking language.

The Macau Special Administrative Region has gained new institutions, in the economic and trade field, geared towards the expansion of relations with Portuguese-speaking countries.

The "One Belt, One Road" strategy and strengthening of the productive capacity of Portuguese-speaking countries are part of the next action plan of the Macau Forum, which came out of the ministerial conference on 11 and 12 October 2016, as well as the internationalisation of the Chinese currency, to facilitate investment and trade – for companies – and funding – to the States, for which the Macau financial sector will be a major hub.

Another new feature of the conference was that the headquarters of the US$1 billion fund for investment in Portuguese-speaking countries announced by China in 2013 will be transferred from Beijing to Macau to facilitate contact with potential interested parties.

An African Chamber of Commerce recently opened in Macau to promote business and attract Chinese investment to Africa. (macauhub)

Related News:

Macau: Development of Pan-Pearl River Delta can strengthen relations with Portuguese-speaking countries

Macau and Guangdong go to Brazil to publicise opportunities in Great Pearl River Delta

Macau wants greater cooperation within the Pan Pearl River Delta region

Pearl River Delta association publishes books with a focus on Portuguese-speaking countries

Macau to promote Greater Pearl River Delta at 22nd Lisbon Tourism Fair

Source: Pearl River Delta and Macau are "land of opportunity" for African traders

Africa retains top spot in China’s Diplomatic Calendar

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will follow a two-decade-long diplomatic tradition to make Africa his first overseas destination in 2017, a spokesperson said Tuesday.

Wang will pay an official visit to Madagascar, Zambia, Tanzania, Republic of Congo and Nigeria from Jan. 7 to 12, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang announced at a news briefing.

"Relations with developing countries, including in Africa, is the bedrock of Chinese diplomacy," Geng said. "Chinese foreign ministers have visited Africa during their first foreign trips each year over the past two decades. The practice has become a much treasured diplomatic tradition for China."

Wang will discuss the implementation of President Xi Jinping's consensus with African leaders and the outcome of the 2015 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in Johannesburg, to help the revival of Africa and enhance solidarity and common development among developing countries, Geng said.

"China hopes to comprehensively upgrade cooperation with Africa in 2017," the spokesperson said.

At the 2015 summit, China announced 10 major plans for China-Africa cooperation over three years, backed with a 60 billion U.S. dollar package. As of last July, China and Africa had signed 245 various cooperation agreements worth a total of 50 billion U.S. dollars.

A batch of early successes related to the summit were achieved in 2016, including the opening of the Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway and progress on the Mombasa-Nairobi line, as well as development of industrial parks and special economic zones, Geng said.

Source: Africa retains top spot in China's Diplomatic Calendar

Commentary: Chinese FM's African tour to give fresh boost to decades-long friendship

BEIJING， Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Following a nearly three-decade-long diplomatic tradition， Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is making Africa his first overseas destination in 2017.

On Sunday， Wang will embark on a six-day official visit to five African countries， namely Madagascar， Zambia， Tanzania， Republic of Congo and Nigeria.

The visit is an extension of a much treasured diplomatic tradition for China. Since 1991， five foreign ministers have visited Africa during their first foreign trip each year.

The foundation of the China-Africa friendship was laid by former generations of the two countries' leaderships， who have supported and cooperated with each other during struggles against imperialism and colonialism for national independence and liberation in the 1950s and 1960s.

Since then， thousands of Chinese workers and engineers have arrived in Africa to assist in the infrastructure construction of the war-torn continent.

Major projects undertaken or sponsored by China such as the Tanzania-Zambia railway， the Friendship Harbor in Mauritania and the conference hall for the African Union in Ethiopia constitute a solid groundwork for Africa's economic development. These projects are also tokens of the China-Africa friendship.

For China， an old acquaintance is never forgotten. Relations with Africa have been deepened and broadened as the world undergoes profound changes and the Asian country grows into the world's second-largest economy.

In a reflection of the two sides' modern efforts to forge a community of common destiny， China and Africa have been cooperating on new， high-tech projects including the Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway， the first electrified railway in Africa， and the 680-meter-long Nyerere Bridge in Tanzania， the first of its kind in East and Central Africa.

Chinese President Xi Jinping rolled out 10 major plans to boost his country's cooperation with Africa based on principles of sincerity， practical results， affinity and good faith in a keynote speech at the second summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation held in Johannesburg in 2015.

The big package covers the areas of industrialization， agricultural modernization， infrastructure， financial services， green development， trade and investment facilitation， poverty reduction and public welfare， public health， people-to-people exchanges， and peace and security.

A batch of early successes related to the summit were achieved in 2016， including the opening of the Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway and progress on the Mombasa-Nairobi line， as well as the development of industrial parks and special economic zones.

During the visit， Wang will discuss the further implementation of Xi's consensus with African leaders and the outcomes of the forum to help the revival of Africa.

"China hopes to comprehensively upgrade cooperation with Africa in 2017，" Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang announced at a news briefing ahead of the visit.

The visit will also help enhance solidarity and common development among developing countries， Geng added.

Africa is home to the most developing countries in the world. China's decades-long interaction with the continent testifies to the country's determination， as a major player on the world arena， to promote a fairer and more rational global governance system.

In that sense， China-Africa cooperation means more than growth and prosperity. It benefits the whole world in the long run by helping create a fairer， more balanced and harmonious world order.

Source: Commentary: Chinese FM's African tour to give fresh boost to decades-long friendship

JOANNA TWEEDY picks the best-value destinations for the adventurous

The pound is close to parity with the euro and holidays on the continent suddenly look less enticing, but that's no reason to stay at home. If you're prepared to travel further afield, you'll find sterling goes further, too, with long-haul holidays better value than winter-sun breaks in Italy, France or Spain. Yes, the flights might seem expensive, but they will prove worth it once you're there. Here, JOANNA TWEEDY picks the best-value destinations...

COSTA RICA 

£1 =687.22 colons 

After plummeting in 2014, the colon is the fastest-rising currency in the past two years thanks to the country's tourist drive. This year sees no sign of a slow-down, but it still presents good value. Buy a (fantastic) coffee in the capital for £1.90. 

This lush, Central American country has put itself firmly on our holiday maps, with direct flights from the UK and new, smart resorts. Costa Rica is still cheaper than the Caribbean for eating out, but offers the same relaxed vibe. The downside? U.S. travellers are smitten with its coastal hotspots, so beaches can get crowded.

Costa Rica has put itself firmly on our holiday maps, with direct flights from the UK and new, smart resorts. Pictured, Arenal National Park, Balneario Tabacon hot springs in Fortuna

Safety rating: Usual tourist rules apply, but it's generally safe. Watch out for Zika virus warnings.

Best time to go: Mid-November to April.

Budget: All-inclusive at the five-star Riu Guanacaste resort starts from £797 for seven nights, including flights, firstchoice.co.uk

Mid-range: Responsible Travel has nine-day wildlife holidays to Costa Rica's rainforests from £629, including accommodation and tours. Flights to San Jose from £496, ba.com

Luxury: Stay five nights in a bungalow at the Pacuare Lodge eco-resort in the Costa Rican rainforest from £1,900, including transfers, meals and river tours, pacuarelodge.com. See above for flights.

SOUTH AFRICA

£1 = 16.86 South African rand

The rand dropped to a historic low in 2015, but Brits can still enjoy around 46 per cent more value than five years ago when the rate was around 11.4 rand to a pound. A proper coffee will set you back around £1.10.

If the Call The Midwife Christmas special whetted your appetite, then you're in for a treat. The Rainbow Nation promises iconic sights, world-beating wildlife and zero jet-lag.

What's more, the sorry state of the rand offers fantastic value against sterling. A family of four can expect to pay £60 for a slap-up three course dinner in Cape Town or Johannesburg.

A family of four can expect to pay £60 for a slap-up three course dinner in Cape Town ,above

Safety rating: South Africa's high crime rate is well documented, but the vast majority of tourists enjoy incident-free holidays. Escorted tours are a good option for first-time visitors.

Best time to go: From now until April.

Budget: Stay at the Parliament Hotel in Cape Town from £66 a night, parliamenthotel.co.za. Flights to Cape Town with British Airways cost from £899 during May half-term, ba.com

MAURITIUS

£1 = 44.70 Mauritian rupees

Having been Africa's third worst-performing currency in 2015, the rupee is enjoying some stability. But for Brits, it's surprisingly cheap in the resorts; a coffee in opulent Grand Baie will cost around £2.30, not bad for one of the world's most exclusive destinations.

Tropical Mauritius sounds so dreamy that it's hard to believe it isn't ruinously expensive.

In fact, this Indian Ocean island, which boasts alabaster beaches and a mountainous inland, is surprisingly accessible.

Eating out costs a third less than in another holiday favourite, Dubai, with families dining well for around £60 all-in.

There are direct flights from the UK, but if you're prepared to fly from Paris — the French can't get enough of their former colony — then there are real air bargains to be had.

Safety rating: Petty crime is common, and the Foreign Office advises care in Grand-Baie, Port Louis and Flic-en-Flac.

Best time to go: September to December, and May, which thanks to a lift in humidity, is one of the best months to visit.

Budget: Doubles at the Cocotiers Seaside Boutik Hotel in Baie du Tombeau start from £57 per night, cocotiers-hotel-mauritius.com. Fly to Mauritus from £659, emirates.com

Mid-range: A week-long, all-inclusive stay at the four-star Zilwa Attitude resort, including flights, costs from £1,359pp based on May departures, kuoni.co.uk

Luxury: Stay during the summer holidays for a week at Le Touessrok from £2,749pp based on full-board in a deluxe suite, flights included, kenwoodtravel.co.uk

Mid-range: Trailfinders has fly-drive, one-week Garden Route breaks, including a stay at the four-star Radisson Blu in Cape Town and car hire for May departures, from £899, trailfinders.com

Luxury: A 12-night Cape, Kalahari and Kruger tour with Abercrombie and Kent costs from £6,450pp, including flights abercrombiekent.co.uk

MEXICO

£1 = 26.64 pesos

With around 26 pesos to the pound, there's a 1 per cent increase in sterling's value against this time last year. While it doesn't sound a lot, compared with the 15 per cent less UK holidaymakers to the U.S. are getting when they change pounds into dollars, it's a worthwhile gain. Expect to pay around £1.90 for a cappuccino.

The country's economic woes make Mexico probably the best value long-haul destination for Britons in 2017, with direct flights galore and a bottle of beer costing just 85p. The Land of the Aztecs has much to savour, from the sparkling Mayan Riviera beaches to cities awash with Spanish colonial charm.

Safety rating: Stay on the beaten track and there is little to worry tourists — although a Zika virus warning is still in place.

Best time to go: From now until April.

Budget: Stay at the four-star Riu Caribe, Cancun on an all-inclusive basis from £769pp for a week, including flights, thomson.co.uk

Mid-range: Get 30 per cent off until January 31 on one-week summer stays at the all-inclusive Secrets Akumal resort on the Riviera Maya, from £1,581pp, including flights, virginholidays.co.uk

Luxury: The One & Only resort in Los Cabos costs from £10,150 based on a family of four sharing a junior suite for a week, including flights and private transfers, elegantresorts.co.uk

VIETNAM

£1 = 28145.99 Vietnamese dongs

The pound has fallen 2.7 per cent in the past year against the dong, but travellers heading east are still getting great value. A beer costs just 80p.

Prince William visited this fascinating country for the first time in November. Now, 40 years on from the bloody war with America, Vietnam looks poised for a tourism purple patch, mainly because it feels a lot like Thailand did 20 years ago.

Direct flights from the UK began in 2011 and the infrastructure for visitors is impressive, with many big-brand hotels already there.

Thomson has just launched a route to the beautiful Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc.

Vietnam looks poised for a tourism purple patch, mainly because it feels a lot like Thailand did 20 years ago. Pictured, Sung Sot Cave, in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Safety rating: The Foreign Office suggests 'sensible precautions', but says most visits are trouble-free.

Best time to go: Vietnam has differing weather patterns depending on where you are. But for touring the country, September to December and March to April are good bets.

Budget: One week B&B at the three-star Blue Ocean Resort Phan Thiet in Mui Ne costs from £619pp, including flights, travelbag.co.uk

Mid-range: A ten-day tour of Ho Chi Minh City and Danang costs from £1,995 per person, including flights. Book with hayesandjarvis.co.uk

Luxury: A 17-day escorted tour taking in Hanoi, Halong Bay and the Mekong Delta costs from £4,960, including flights, transport and accommodation, audleytravel.com

ARGENTINA 

Argentina: Make for the gaucho farms and sample life as an Argentine cowboy

£1 = 19.80 pesos 

There has been little change in the value of the pound against the peso year-on-year, so value is still favourable for visiting British holidaymakers.

A beer in Buenos Aires costs around £2.

A steak feast (with a decent bottle of Malbec) in a top Buenos Aires restaurant still feels like incredibly good value — expect to pay around £15 a head. This elegant capital, with its European influenced barrios and love of tango, is a fantastic introduction to South America if you've never been.

Or make for the gaucho farms and sample life as an Argentine cowboy.

Safety rating: Stay streetwise in the urban sprawl of the capital, but most visits pass without incident.

Best time to go: September to November is Argentina's spring and a great time to visit. You can only climb the highest Andean peaks in summer — December to February. But Buenos Aires will be very hot at this time of year.

Budget: The Pop Hotel in Buenos Aires has rooms from £43 a night, innfinite.co.uk. Fly to the capital from £599, statravel.co.uk

Mid-range: Last Frontiers can arrange riding holidays to The Pampas (one and a half hours' drive from Buenos Aires) for £160pp, including accommodation, full-board and riding with gauchos, lastfrontiers.com. Flights as above.

Luxury: Journey Latin America offer a 16-day private family tour taking in Buenos Aires and Patagonia from £5,321pp, including flights, travel, guides and accommodation, journeylatinamerica.co.uk 

PERU

£1 = 4.18 Peruvian sol

It's been a steady year for the sol, meaning visiting UK tourists will get around one less sol per pound than they might have done in 2015.

Steer clear of trendy cafes if you're on a budget and you'll pay just £1 for a decent coffee. Thrice-weekly flights to Lima began in May, making this foodie capital (which has given us the on-trend raw fish dish ceviche) a hot ticket.

Dining in the capital's local restaurants remains cheap and you can rack up miles in taxis and still only part with a few pounds.

Iconic: Machu Picchu in Peru, pictured, is South America's most visited attraction

Beyond Lima, there's a significant chunk of the Amazon to explore, plus iconic Machu Picchu, South America's most visited attraction.

Safety rating: Violent crimes against tourists are rare, but an escorted tour promises you'll see the best of Peru in safety.

Best time to go: The ideal time to visit the coast is January, while the Andes are best explored from May until September.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 

£1 = 57.51 Dominican pesos 

In the holiday budget barometer, the peso offers the best value in the Caribbean for Britons. Grab a beer at a bar for around £2.43.

Long considered the best-value destination in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is awash with all-inclusive resorts, meaning you can cap your holiday spending the moment you book.

If you're not keen on eating in the resort, dining out is reasonable. Post Office Travel Money estimates that an evening meal for two every night for a week with beer and coffee costs around £256 per couple, compared with £418 for the same in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Safety rating: Take care in capital Saint Domingo, where pickpocketing rates are high.

Best time to go: High season is December to March. Hurricane season is June to December, when hotel rates are heavily discounted.

Budget: Stay all-inclusive at the Riu Palace Punta Cana from £629pp for a week during the Easter break, including flights, thomson.co.uk

Mid-range: A week at the five-star Alsol del Mar Cap Cana on a room-only basis on August 8 costs £1,078pp, including flights, ba.com

Luxury: Rooms at the historic five-star Casas del XVI retreat in Santa Domingo start from £263 per night, slh.com. Fly to Punta Cana from £469, ba.com

Budget: Double rooms at the Casa Bella Boutique Hotel in Lima cost from £45 per night, casabellaperu.net. Fly to Lima from £605, klm.com

Mid-range: Rainbow Tours offer a 13-day tour, featuring Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca, for £2,950pp including flights and transfers, rainbowtours.co.uk

Luxury: Tour Peru's classic sights, including Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, on a nine-night break. From £4,400 per person, including flights, transfers and accommodation, scottdunn.com

THAILAND

£1 = 44.28 baht 

The pound has dipped a little against the baht since this time last year. Avoid major chains for coffee and you'll pay around 25 baht (60p) for an americano.

The self-styled 'Land of Smiles' may have introduced inflated prices for tourists in recent years, but the sheer variety of holidays on offer — from trekking the jungles of the north to Bangkok's floating markets and family-friendly beach hotels — ensures there's still something for every budget. Eat locally and you'll find yourself chowing down on a delicious curry, with a Chang beer, for less than £10 per head.

Safety rating: Have your wits about you and don't be afraid to barter.

Best time to go: November to February is the cool season and a pleasant time to visit, with temperatures still reaching up to 30c.

Budget: Stay 14 nights at the Centara Karon resort in Phuket from £699 including flights, trailfinders.co.uk

Mid-range: The Amari Vogue Krabi hotel has rooms from £124 a night, amari.com. Fly to Krabi (pictured) via Bangkok with Thai Airways from £562, thaiairways.com

Luxury: Stay seven nights at the Banyan Tree spa resort in Phuket from £2,505pp in a spa pool villa. Prices include flights and transfers, elegantresorts.co.uk 

Thailand may have introduced inflated prices for tourists in recent years, but the sheer variety of holidays on offer ensures there's still something for every budget. Above, Krabi

Source: JOANNA TWEEDY picks the best-value destinations for the adventurous

VP announces state-of-the-art Dubai Harbour project

DUBAI–"We are happy that this new project, which represents a unique and innovative new addition to the region's tourism landscape, opens up a range of new opportunities to investors."

These were the very words uttered by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, as he announced the development of Dubai Harbour.

The unique new waterfront destination that will feature the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region's largest marina is expected to be finished in four years after the ground-breaking ceremonies.

The project, located on King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, in the area between the Jumeirah Beach Residence and Palm Jumeirah–also known as Mina Al Seyahi–will be developed by Dubai's leading holding company Meraas.

The iconic luxury waterfront destination, spread over 20 million sq. ft., will include a 1,400-berth marina, the biggest in the MENA region, as well as a cruise ship port and terminal, a shopping mall covering 3.5 million sq. ft.–the largest one in the area–an events arena, luxurious residential buildings, hotels, offices, retail stores, public service facilities, restaurants, cafes and the Dubai Lighthouse.

The master plan of the new project also integrates Skydive Dubai, Dubai International Marine Club, DIMC, and the Logo Island into a single community."Dubai Harbour creates a venue for new investments that support our vision for this important sector and promise to further accelerate the expansion of the tourism industry in the UAE, which is already growing rapidly," said Sheikh Mohammed of the project that is expected to generate thousands of jobs in the four years that it will be developed and more jobs thereafter or when it becomes fully operational.

"I am confident that the project will have a highly positive impact on the entire region's tourism sector. We are keen to encourage new projects and promote investments that will contribute to bringing to the region more tourists interested in experiencing this part of the world," added the Ruler of Dubai.

He also noted that this project is inspired by the Gulf's long maritime tradition, which has been inextricably linked to the evolution of trade and commerce in the region.

"Our region has had a long and historic relationship with the sea, and today we are seeing another initiative inspired by this age-old tradition that opens up new horizons for development. We have great aspirations for the tourism sector, which is one of the main pillars of our economic development and an important source of national income," His Highness Sheikh Mohammed added.The unique destination, which adds a new dimension to Dubai's flourishing tourism industry, is set to further enhance Dubai's position as a leading global hub for maritime tourism.

The project will create synergies with some of Dubai's other iconic projects located in the area, including Palm Jumeirah and the upcoming Bluewaters Island project.Dubai Harbour is also set to enhance the city's profile as a magnet for wealth and investments.The project promises to be an attractive destination for the GCC yacht owners, who own one-third of the world's largest superyachts.

Dubai Harbour will be accessible by land, sea and air. Additionally, the project will be linked to Sheikh Zayed Road, Palm Jumeirah, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street and Bluewaters Island through state-of-the-art infrastructure.

"The Dubai Harbour project has been launched in response to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid to create a culture of innovation to support the country's future and strengthen its international position. It also contributes to achieving 'Dubai Tourism Vision 2020' to promote tourism and strengthen Dubai's position as a leading tourist destination," said Abdulla Al Habbai, Group Chairman of Meraas.

"Dubai has constantly amazed the world with its ability to create great projects. A futuristic project of the highest standards, Dubai Harbour confirms our commitment to innovation and creativity. The project demonstrates our approach of thinking differently to create new opportunities that stimulate economic activity in this area. This project will develop a waterfront destination that will stimulate fresh growth in the tourism sector," he said.

Dubai Harbour is expected to create new employment opportunities and attract substantial investments. The destination is also expected to have an incremental impact on the value of neighbouring properties.

Source: VP announces state-of-the-art Dubai Harbour project

NEPZA grants licence for $2.5bn Maritime Africa Economic City

Managing Director, Nigeria Exports Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Gbenga Kuye

The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has granted a licence to Nigeria's largest Free Trade Zone and Mega Port project – the Maritime Africa Economic City otherwise known as the Badagry Free Zone.

NEPZA is responsible for the facilitation of investment into Free Zones in the country.

The Maritime Africa Economic City, which is being developed by a consortium of top local and international companies, is part of the moves Nigeria hopes to use to retain its regional hub status for maritime and other business investment activities.

The Managing Director of NEPZA, Gbenga Kuye, officially handed over the licence to the Project Director of the Zone, Patrick Bird, in Abuja.

Speaking on the development, Bird said: "Today marks a tremendous milestone in the development of the Badagry project. With NEPZA, we intend to develop Maritime Africa Economic City into one of the most successful special economic zones in all of Africa.

"The benefits of having this approval are enormous for our clients and despite the current downturn in the economy; we are still fielding a lot of interests from domestic and foreign companies wanting to set up in Badagry.

"We thank NEPZA for their continued support. This is going to be a great partnership to the benefit of Nigeria," he said.

Bird highlighted some of the benefits of the new Free Trade Zone to include various tax advantages, 100 per cent repatriation of profits and dividends, immigration incentives, round the clock operations, and fast-track cargo clearance procedures.

The $2.5 billion Maritime Africa Economic City will be developed on a 1,100 hectare of land with over six kilometres of quay wall, including a container terminal, roll-on-roll-off (RORO) terminal, general cargo terminals, oil service centre and refined products import terminals.

It will also include a power plant, oil refinery, industrial park, warehousing and inland container depot functions as well.The Zone is connected to Lagos by the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, which is currently being upgraded and expanded by the Lagos State Government as well as the Porto Novo Creek, allowing for the barging of cargo between the existing port system of Lagos and the new facility.

A rail line will also be developed in the future to connect the new Free Trade Zone for even more seamless transit of goods.Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, had recently described the Badagry Free Zone and Mega Port project as a major turning point that would go a long way to bring about global growth to Nigerian waters and by extension the nation's economy.

Ambode said the project would also complement the emergence of Lagos as the fifth largest economy in Africa.The Federal Government approved the construction of the proposed Mega Port and Free Zone at the Federal Executive Council meeting of August 3, 2016.

Also, speaking in support of the project, Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, said the project will boost Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country.

The Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, said the approval showed that Nigeria is still a preferred investment destination in Africa despite the challenges it currently faced.

The Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, while thanking President Muhammadu Buhari for granting the approval, said: "There are bigger vessels now being built across the world that require larger depths and drafts to berth. Now some of our competitors on the continent like Djibouti are building bigger ports, so if we don't build this port, we risk becoming uncompetitive and we risk a threat to our maritime hub status in the sense that we may become a transhipment port instead of a port of original destination."

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Source: NEPZA grants licence for $2.5bn Maritime Africa Economic City