Dubai is a fascinating destination with a mix of history and culture combined with one of the most ultra-modern cities on the globe. A combination that works well, side by side. Old Dubai is home to traditional markets, authentic meals, and awe-inspiring culture. This is where you'll find magnificent markets such as the Gold and Spice Souks with colourful fabrics and silks influenced by the cities Arabian history.
Old Dubai is separated from the modern district by the Dubai Creek, a bustling hive of water activity of old-world boats and river transport. A real sense of old-world Arabian trading.
In vast contrast, the modern Dubai is dominated by the ultra-modern architecture with the most prominent being the Burj Khalifa, a stunning structure etched glistening in the Dubai skyline and currently the tallest building in the world .... well that's only until the next tallest building is built. Where? Dubai again of course.
Dubai offers more than just a stopover on your way from Australasia to Europe. Its a destination well worth 4-5 days. Despite its constant high temperatures and humidity of over 40 degrees celsius, the vast majority of buildings, taxi's, transport and activities are extremely well air-conditioned, in some cases almost frosty cold.
Unforgettable!
Most notable must-do activity while in Dubai is to experience the famous Desert Safaris Tour. You'll be picked up from your hotel in a modern 4WD and driven out into the desert where you'll experience an evening in a traditional Bedouin camp with magnificent desert sunsets, Tanura and belly dancing, camel rides, falcon experience, henna painting, 4WD dune bashing and of course an Arabian BBQ buffet. You just can't visit Dubai without experiencing this.
There's plenty for the family in Dubai too. In one of the best days together as a family was at the Aquaventure Water Park. Situated at the very top of the 'Palms Atlantis Resort' stretching spectacularly out into the Persian Gulf, the resort and water park is nothing short of impressive. No expense spared on the aesthetic grounds and facilities with an abundance and variety of water slides and rides to cater for all ages.
We stayed in a Serviced Apartment in the JBR area of Dubai. It would be fair to say, even though it's still a 20 min taxi ride to the centre of Dubai, JBR is still the most popular region for visitors to stay. The area is modern and close to the Marina district with an abundance of shopping. The great news is, we booked direct and saved approx $A300 from what was advertised on the online booking platforms for a 5-night stay.
Suha Apartments offer expansive 3 bedroom apartments we found to be massive for a family of 4, with full-size kitchen, large lounge/dining area, modern appliances, spacious bedrooms, 3 separate toilets, laundry and a balcony with a view of the marina.
I was puzzled recently to read a couple of negative reviews about this property, because this was certainly not our experience at all. I assume these apartments are owned independently and managed by the Suha Hospitality group. Similar business models exist in large Hotel / Apartment groups such as Quest Apartments (Australia), so I expect your room will vary somewhat depending on the owner. Our room although was immaculately clean, furnished beautifully and the service and friendliness of the staff was outstanding. I couldn't fault the property at all other than the cleaning staff kept turning the air-conditioner down to frosty levels. Certainly no third world problem. Like many service apartments, you are greeted by a small and simple 24-hour reception area but no food and beverage facilities on-site, which is fine. I was although impressed with the service from the internal tour desk operated by Rayna Tours.
Like many hotel lobby tour desks, the service was great, but you need to do your homework. Our agent managed to arrange some great tours with his company, but when it came to other attractions, it was cheaper to book direct. The Aquaventure Water Park was a good example.
This just reinforces the BookDirect principle of always researching prices direct with the operator regardless of if its an airline, accommodation or attraction. In a world that's hungry to save a dollar, business operators can pass on part of the savings from considerable sales commissions from you shopping direct with them.
Dubai is ever-evolving, almost daily. It's a city with such beauty and culture gracefully merged. Next time your flight has you in the international transit lounge for a few hours, think ahead and consider spending a few days getting a feel for the old and new Dubai. You won't be disappointed.
(I received no payment or free accommodation from Suha Apartments or any attractions mentioned. I paid full price as advertised on their website)
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