Alan Walmsley

The historic town and its fortress introduces, to the visitor, a way of life now quickly disappearing across the Arabian peninsula. Take a peaceful stroll through the lanes and passageways that once linked the diverse urban quarters and amaze on the sophisticated high-walled buildings in stone and hardened mud. Climb (carefully!) the ancient steps to the top of the fort and be captivated by the scenic location overlooking the town, and the extensive forest of dark green date palms. Today, the extensive heritage town greets interested travellers to spend time within the site, and offers an opportunity to experience an unmissable taste of life in AlUla Old Town.

A lot of joy and entertainment takes place here, but to get into most events tickets are required. Many celebrities have entertained here, starting with Harry Belafonte (1963) an "activist and entertainer with a ‘rebel heart'", later (2008) Mr Leonard Cohen the one and only, and Sting in 2012 with an iconic intimate performance. Community events are held here too, such as graduations and performances. Entrances are numerous and functionally confusing, but arriving on the metro means immediate access to the building.

The Clock Tower [correctly, Tour de l’horloge du Vieux-Port de Montréal] is a prominent quay-side monument in remembrance of the sailors who lost their lives in the worst of the world wars that took place in the first half of the twentieth century. The tower and accessory structure, built largely of brick, is of inter-war date in the 20th century, and is decorated in a decisive Art Deco architectural style, common in the inter-war period. The open side to the river of the quoi supports most of the dedicatory inscriptions, supplemented with a plaque (somewhat miniature in scale) in which the 1951-53 war is added. Very much worth the (free) walk to the end of the quoi. Today, Sunday 19 May 2024, getting into the tower was closed off.

Very nicely kept open grass and tree area with many facilities, especially shelted tables and benches, bbq areas, and play areas. All kept tidy and welcoming. Kiosk and changing rooms at the surf life saving club.

A lovely park of serene South Maroubra. Sadly, the coastal walk is not always accessible like today 25th Oct 2023. You can hear the guns going off on the shooting range situated in the parklands, the restricted area is fenced. Not a good idea to ignore the signage.