This spring break will see a number of heritage festivals being held across the Kingdom to promote tourism and educate young people about their proud history. There is commendable work being done by the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) to raise public awareness of what this country has to offer. Saudis are certainly interested in traveling to various parts of their own land. A few days ago we reported how the Eastern Province Municipality's annual spring festival and flower show, which began last week, had to be extended for one more week because of huge public demand. The spring festival is a major attraction for thousands of families visiting the Dammam Corniche. More than 3,000 varieties of plants, shrubs, bushes, flowers and gardening materials are on display at the exhibition. Maha, a Saudi woman who came to the festival with her children, said that she was attracted by the variety of flowers and plants and was going to buy some to take home. She said the festival also helps to create awareness about caring for the environment. These were the sentiments of many Saudis who were interviewed by the newspaper. In addition, the festival includes various cultural programs, activities, competitions, dental and health awareness programs and entertainment programs for families and children. ?This year many government agencies are also participating in the event, including the health department of the Eastern Province, with awareness campaigns for diabetics and those with blood pressure problems. There are similar events being planned for other parts of the country, including Jeddah, one of the most popular destinations for domestic tourists, both Saudis and expatriates. Many are also expected to travel from Jeddah to Makkah and Madina for spiritual enlightenment. There are reportedly 700,000 visitors expected to travel to Jeddah this holiday. This year there is likely to be more domestic tourism because of the political crises and natural disasters in several Middle East and East Asian countries. Travel agents are expecting 70 percent of tourists to remain and travel domestically. This all bodes well for the local industry and will make many realize they need not travel abroad on expensive holidays to have a good time. __
