March 29-April 4 agenda: Apple iPad goes on sale

(AFP PHOTO/RYAN ANSON)

Next week's selection comprises the reopening of a mythical tourism site in Peru, the first tastings of the Bordeaux 2009 vintage, the official launch of the Apple iPad, the New York auto show and Easter celebrations, among other events.

Machu Picchu reopens
March 29
Cusco, Peru

Tourism officials have confirmed that Machu Picchu, the most visited site in South America, will reopen March 29 following the devastating rains that blocked access to the ancient Inca site. Access will initially be restricted (partially by bus) until the full rail link is restored, expected by July at the latest.

"En primeur" 2009 Bordeaux
March 30- April 1
Bordeaux, France

The week of tastings officially launches the futures or en primeurs campaign, when the top wines go on sale 12 months prior to bottling.This event acts as an indicator to the whole wine industry worldwide. During last year's week, 4,500 clients from around the world descended upon the Bordeaux wine estates.
http://www.ugcb.net

New York International Auto Show
March 31 - April 11
New York, USA

The final large show of the US season sees the presentation of the World Car of the Year Award and a host of unveilings from US and overseas manufacturers. Over a million visitors are expected to attend the event, held at the Javits Convention Center. The public show runs from April 2.
http://www.autoshowny.com

Russian Fashion Week
April 1-7
Moscow, Russia

The biggest fashion event in Eastern Europe will celebrate its 10th year in existence this year, showcasing the best in Russian design but also from abroad, featuring a London showroom in collaboration with the British Fashion Council.
http://russianfashionweek.com

Armageddon Expo
April 2-4
Wellington, New Zealand

The expansive Armageddon Expo covers the realms of comics, TV, film, anime cartoons and gaming with these two family days out. This year, there will be screenings of the Ponyo and Twilight films, guest appearances with actors from Dr Who, Star Trek, and Heroes, anime and video game voice-over artists, novelist Robert Rankin, comic author Christian Gossett whose The Red Star graphic novel is coming out in video game form on PSP and iPhone, and a video games area run by NZGamer.com. http://www.armageddonexpo.com/nz

Apple iPad goes on sale
April 3
Various locations worldwide

Apple announced that WiFi models of its latest invention - a touchscreen slate device called the iPad - will begin shipping in the US on April 3. 3G models will start shipping at the end of April. WiFi and 3G versions of the device are also expected to become available in Australia, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain and Switzerland in late April, with iPads going on sale in additional countries later during the year. Prices range from $499 for the 16GB WiFi model up to $829 for the WiFi & 3G 64GB model. International pricing will be announced in April.
http://www.apple.com/ipad

Formula One: Malaysian Grand Prix
April 4
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Michael Schumacher could tie 1970s Formula One legend John MacDonald for the privilege of having won the most races at the Sepang circuit if he crosses the finish line first here. Tickets are 200 MYR / €44 on the hill (100 MYR without roof covering), main grandstand passes are in the region of 1,200 - 2,600 MYR / €265 - 575. The more expensive tickets include access to the accompanying Wyclef Jean / Fatboy Slim concert.
http://www.malaysiangp.com.my

Easter Sunday
April 4
International

This Christian feast celebrates the resurrection of Christ. The modern and secular celebration of Easter now comprises Easter eggs and the Easter Bunny.