Arabian Nights (and Days) in Dubai

ARABIAN NIGHTS (and DAYS) IN DUBAI

FINALLY! I checked off a bucket list item of experiencing Dubai. Granted, I understand that a few days of time does not reveal everything, but it still tells you a lot. (And, I will be back for another visit.)

I was fortunate enough to make the 15-1/2 hour trip from San Francisco directly to Dubai via Business Class on an Emirates Airbus 380. They are so amazing, it felt like another day in paradise. (That will be another blog.) Upon arriving in the evening at the Ritz Carlton, I had made arrangements for a wonderful experience at their outdoor Arabian restaurant, Amaseena. (Be sure to make reservations, and know that they are open only certain times of the year.) They take this experience seriously. Even after a long trip, we were literally stimulated by the sights, sounds and tastes of this amazing cuisine and cultural experience nestled along the coastline of Dubai. Large red tents covering red sofas and tables awaiting a feast, along with haunting Arabian music wafting through a beautiful balmy night is how you are greeted. Then…the chefs and managers arrive to welcome Americans. Refreshing, relaxing and joyful!

Needless to say, the experience was a perfect end to a very long journey. It was time for a great night’s sleep; and the next day awaited.

Ah…the next day and the Burj Khalifa! The tallest building in the world (for now) is a 160 story marvel. We waited until late afternoon to “fly” up the building elevator (at 9 meters per second). Sunset was looming, and we were able to garner a window seat on the 122nd floor at At.mosphere. (Bring your wallet…there is a minimum purchase of $240 per person to enjoy this time of the day. In fact, take your wallet and your plastic everywhere you go in Dubai.) After a unique experience, it was time to enjoy the water fountain (still not as fantastic as the Bellagio in Las Vegas, IMHO) and to marvel at the skyline.

Dubai does not have oil. They mostly rely on tourism; ergo, the amazing architecture and sights in the area. They are also very welcoming of visitors and expats. There are so many amazing things to see in Dubai. The Burj al Arab is the amazing skyscraper shaped like a sail. They even have an extremely tall skyscraper that is twisted in shape and literally rotates from the base throughout the day! They also have the man-made Palm Island…which was my visit on the next day.

After some window shopping in the Burj Khalifa (that’s all I could afford) and seeing the QE2 which will be turned into a hotel (much like the Queen Mary in Long Beach, CA) I made a visit to Palm Island. This island is an engineering marvel. You can take a shuttle train over the island to witness the homes and businesses that must be paying a fortune to be there. The amazing Atlantis hotel offers special experiences peering and diving into their astounding aquarium. Note: this is one of Dubai’s most expensive hotels, and you cannot just walk in without being a guest (although I suspect you can make some special arrangements).

All in all, I witnessed Dubai’s amazing architecture, hospitality, jaw-dropping wealth and open arms for visitors.

So, a few things about their customs and environment you might want to know…

• Friday is the Islamic Holy Day. Businesses are mostly closed or open later in the afternoon. (There are always exceptions.)

• Public displays of affection are frowned upon.

• Women are expected to keep their shoulders and knees covered.

• Alcohol is not served in public.

• Public transportation is non-existent.

• Car traffic is insane. (And I thought L.A. was bad!)

THINKING ABOUT GOING? HERE ARE SOME TIPS…

• If you want to relax, swim in a pool, enjoy your family and imbibe on cocktails, it might be easier for you to stay at a resort. All customs are generally waived in these establishments, so you can relax.

• Book tours that include a driver and interpreter. I recommend looking into Viator. www.viator.com

• Remember that it is an easy drive to Abu Dhabi, which is the capital of the United Arab Emirates. They are even a little stricter in their customs, but definitely worth the visit.

• Book your experiences ahead of time. You can do this online, with your travel agent or even the hotel concierge where you are staying.

I will never regret visiting Dubai, and I look forward to spending even more time there. If you have any particular questions, you can email me at paula@pjworldtravels.com. I will be happy to share any information I can to make your trip better planned and more pleasurable.