Dubai is a fascinating city. The newness of it is quite overpowering, yet hidden away are the old forts, museums and markets. The trip along the Dubai Creek was a relaxing hour of so, and it is interesting to see this ‘creek’ as a operating port, a transport corridor, and lined with floating restaurants, pleasure craft and local fishing boats.
Then there is the modern. The opulent apartments, lavish malls and of course the world’s tallest skyscraper. It is a landmark. Dubai is a very safe place for the traveller, but you can still get ripped off if you don’t bargain. Seeing most of the new developments are on reclaimed land, it is an engineering feat worthy of praise.
A night visit to the Spice Souk (Market) was full of colour and aromas. Along side of that was the Gold Souk. All that glitters is gold. Most shops are open to around 9pm and the people are out and about, walking, looking and buying.
The Dubai Mall is a wonder by itself – yet it is only one of many and most are themed in some manner. However The Dubai Mall does have a rather large indoor aquarium, waterfall and is the largest. The hour walk through the aquarium is an experience you should have.
The food was tasty and eating at some of the smaller cafe/restaurants was an enjoyable experience. The proprietor of a Nepalese restaurant was very chatty, especially once he found I was an Aussie. He knew all the rules and regulations to migrate to Australia, but needs a sponsor.
This is a hot city – hot as in temperature, it was in the high 40s most of the time, although it cooled off one night when he temperature dropped to 38C.