now is the time to go
As a travel agent, I have booked lots of clients to Dubai, but had never visited myself. So when I got the opportunity to go, I took the chance with both hands.
Even at the end of January, I managed to get a tan in just a few days. The summer months are very hot with temperatures in the 40s. The beaches are long and sandy, the water is safe, with a wide choice of watersports along the famous Jumeirah Beach. From anywhere on this beach, you can see the iconic Burj al Arab hotel, standing out on its own in the sea. The sail shape is visible for miles, and the hotel itself is always busy. At the nearby Madinat, the size of the hotel means that the best way to get around is by abra (small boats) relax and enjoy the view.
What surprised me most is how big Dubai actually is. It takes around 45 minutes to drive from the centre of Dubai City to the sands of Jumeirah and Jebel Ali further on. Along the way, you pass lots of cranes where Dubai is rapidly expanding. However I didnt find the building work too noisy nor intrusive. Just be aware that the aim is to build 250 tower blocks in the Jumeirah area in the next few years.
Much to do? Theres the shopping you can buy Duty Free goods both on the way in and out of the airport. Lots of visitors go there to buy gold, shop after shop in the gold souk full of the most incredible designs. Dont miss the nearby spice souk either the smells and colours will attack your senses. Plenty of shopping malls, including the huge Mall of the Emirates, complete with its own ski-slope. Swim in the sea, sunbathe and ski all in the same day! You cant leave without a trip into the desert bounce around the dunes in 4x4s, before sandboarding, camel rides and then supper under the stars with belly-dancing to work off the calories. Try and get to the top of a tower hotel, just for the view. Depending on whereabouts you are, you should be able to see one of the offshore developments. The Jumeirah Palm is virtually finished, residents and tourists will be moving in soon. For golfers, there are several golf courses oases of green in the desert.
All in all, I would recommend a visit. If you like sunshine, shopping, and stylish luxury this is the place for you.
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