My Recent Visit to One of the Most Technologically Advanced Cities in the World, Dubai.
From the moment I stepped off the plane I could smell the sea and envision the sand. No matter how advanced Dubai gets, one thing is certain: it is a desert.
The drive from the airport to the hotel was scenic as we headed along Sheikh Zayed Road. Anyone from Dubai or anyone who has visited Dubai knows exactly where this road is. It runs parallel to the coast and is home to most of Dubai’s skyscrapers. I chose to stay on the newer side of Dubai, known as Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT). This is an area of hotels and apartments built around a number of small lakes directly opposite the Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). JBR is a bustling area of beaches and nightlife right next to the marina, where you can find all sorts of cuisines. I suggest staying here, as it's cleaner and more modern. Plus, with the new metro line running through Dubai and cheap taxis available any time of day, it's easy to get around here.
There are many things to do in Dubai, but I highly recommend visiting Atlantis, The Palm hotel. If you decide to go there, it's worth jumping on the monorail, as it will transport you over the water and give you a fantastic view of the hotel and the palm as well as the Burj Al Arab.
Another area that I absolutely loved and actually wish I had stayed at is the Madinat Jumeirah. This area is closer to the Burj Al Arab and has some stunning scenery within its grounds. The hotel itself is beautiful with some amazing decor, and there are restaurants and little shops in the Arabic Souk that you can walk through. If you're a cocktail fan, Trader Vic's is a place to visit, and the Tiki Puka Puka is one of the best-tasting cocktails there. This joint also has live salsa music, and you can either choose to dance the night away or watch others as they move to the beat. If you choose to stay at the hotel, there are also free complimentary abra rides that take you around the water.
The Dubai Mall is something else to see — even if, like me, you have little space to pack anything to bring home. Just walking around the magnificent halls of the mall and seeing the huge fish tank and skating area is spectacular. The Dubai Fountain is another attraction that you can't miss when you're out in the emirate. It's at The Dubai Mall.
All in all, Dubai is a versatile city with so much to do — whether you like relaxing on the beach, sipping a cocktail, partying the night away or just taking in the sights. Remember, Dubai is a city that never sleeps, and you can order food at any time — even at 3:00 a.m. — and still have delivery service. Verdict: sign me up again!
Photo Credits:
Ariel view of The Palm – www.telegrapgh.com
Ariel view of Dubai Skyscrapers – www.arabiangazette.com
Anokhi Blog, Anokhi Media, Atlantis The Palm, Beaches, Burj Al Arab, Desert, Dubai, Dubai Mall, Holiday, Jumeirah Lakes, Madinat Jumeirah, Nightlife, Sheikh Zayed Road, Trader Vic
Vallisa Chauhan
Author
Vallisa Chauhan (@vallisachauhan) presents the Flagship breakfast show on Lyca Radio 1458. She has scripted and produced a full feature film called "Those 4 Walls" and is currently working on other projects. She loves travel and movies and tries to fit in both as much as she can.
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