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Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Launches Al-Tawil Camp

Al-Tawil Camp offers a range of experiences, including stargazing, hiking, and opportunities to learn about the reserve's rich biodiversity. SPA
Al-Tawil Camp offers a range of experiences, including stargazing, hiking, and opportunities to learn about the reserve's rich biodiversity. SPA
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Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Launches Al-Tawil Camp

Al-Tawil Camp offers a range of experiences, including stargazing, hiking, and opportunities to learn about the reserve's rich biodiversity. SPA
Al-Tawil Camp offers a range of experiences, including stargazing, hiking, and opportunities to learn about the reserve's rich biodiversity. SPA

The King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority launched on Thursday Al-Tawil Camp, nestled amidst the stunning rocky and mountainous formations within the reserve in Saudi Arabia’s Al-Jouf region.
The camp features 15 fully equipped accommodation units, designed to offer visitors a tranquil and immersive experience. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from their tents, participate in outdoor activities, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
Al-Tawil Camp offers a range of experiences, including stargazing, hiking, and opportunities to learn about the reserve's rich biodiversity. Guests can also enjoy live music performances and explore the pristine natural environment.

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Nepal Hosts Hot Air Balloon Festival

Hot air balloons rise in sky during the international festival at Pokhara in Nepal on December 25, 2024. (Photo by PRAKASH MATHEMA / AFP)
Hot air balloons rise in sky during the international festival at Pokhara in Nepal on December 25, 2024. (Photo by PRAKASH MATHEMA / AFP)
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Nepal Hosts Hot Air Balloon Festival

Hot air balloons rise in sky during the international festival at Pokhara in Nepal on December 25, 2024. (Photo by PRAKASH MATHEMA / AFP)
Hot air balloons rise in sky during the international festival at Pokhara in Nepal on December 25, 2024. (Photo by PRAKASH MATHEMA / AFP)

With Nepal's snowy Himalayan peaks as a backdrop, the sky above Pokhara transformed into a vibrant canvas of colors for the country's first hot-air balloon festival.

Tourism is a major earner for Nepal, which saw over a million foreign visitors this year after a post-pandemic bounceback, and investments are being made in hotels and airports to cater to travelers.

"We felt that we must bring a balloon festival like this to Nepal," Sabin Maharjan, an organizer of the event, told AFP.

Hot-air balloons from more than 10 countries participated in the festival.

"A ride here can be very exciting as you can see mountains, hills and lakes," Maharjan added.

"All passengers tell us that they are very happy -- such a festival will boost our tourism."

The balloons created a mesmerizing display against a stunning sight of the snow-capped Annapurna range.

"It is spectacular," American balloon pilot Derek Hamcock, 67, said.

"As soon as you go above the small range here you see all the Himalayas. Unbelievable, every time you see them it is unbelievable."

Balloons shaped as a rat and a frog from were among those joining in the fun, slowly drifting with the breeze.

"You never know where you are going," said Diego Criado del Rey, 29, a balloon pilot from Spain.

"So it is pretty much you and the nature -- not fighting, but being together. You go where the nature tells you."

Nepal's Civil Aviation Authority issued a notice for the skies over Pokhara for a duration of nine days to allow balloon flights.

Although more than two centuries have passed since France's Montgolfier brothers made the first manned flight, ballooning can still capture the imagination.