Dubai
On our way to Oman, Julia and I had an extended stay in Dubai. This is one massive city that is continually expanding. There is so much to see here so come prepared to spend hours getting too/investigating the different attractions. It is expensive but you can also do a lot with spending too much money. I suggest you do some extensive research in where you want to stay because that will be key in how much you spend.
The Dubai Mall
Rumored to be the largest mall in the world, it is a lot to take in. I am not sure if it is the biggest or not but I couldn’t imagine what a bigger mall would be like. There is so much to see and it is a great place to walk around even if you don’t want to buy anything.
Don’t get lost.
Seriously, it’s that big. My suggestion is to download the app before you go and find some stores that you want to see so you have some sort of guide. It says that there are 3 levels but thats not true; there are 5 levels. On my second trip, I started to recognize some of the art and I kind of was able to find my way but I didn’t go very far from my plan this time. It’s a lot but it is totally worth it!
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
This was planned special for Julia but I really enjoyed it too! The aquarium wasn’t much but you can walk through a tunnel in the tank and that is fun and unique. They will try to sell you many things; just remember at this type of stuff they are expecting to haggle on the price so argue your way through it. I saved 100 Dirham.
The Underwater Zoo is so worth it! They have so many twists and turns and creatures in every nook. I won’t spoil to surprises just plan on making this trip.
More fun in the sun
It’s great to know people.
A new friend own a residence in Dubai on the Palm Jumeirah. She has access to a private beach with such a great view! The water was wonderfully warm and the food and drinks were delicious.
The Gold Souk.
I suggest taking a trip down the famous Gold Souk. This is a covered outside extravaganza. The people are very forward - especially with a blonde white girl - so be ready to ignore or tell politely that you are not interested. They will still talk to you as that is their job but they don’t get too close or pushy. Julia didn’t like this part but she said she was happy we went to see it.
The Fountains at the Dubai Mall.
After our second adventure was over, we ate dinner at the Huqqa in the Dubai Mall. I choose this place because of the awesome view for the fountain show. We didn’t get the best seat because those are reserved for the smoking section - wish I had known that - but we still saw quite a bit of it and it was great. Get to your spot early so you can have a great table regardless of the choice of restaurant.