This time next week I’ll be either on my way to Dubai. I leave Wednesday night for a last minute 5-day vacation and I couldn’t be more excited. I was able to score an incredibly great flight deal and got a roundtrip flight with one very short layover each way for less than $700. With the help of Booking(dot)com I was able to get a great deal on a hotel room. My jaw dropped to the floor when I round out that I was able to get both of those for less than the typical cost of a flight to Dubai.
I have a cousin who lives there so I’ll be hanging out with her when she’s not at work, and like my Paris and London I have a loose itinerary. I combed a few pins, checked out a few blogs and picked my cousin’s brain before coming up with this list.
Desert Safari Tour – I heard that no trip to Dubai is complete without one of these. They’re usually in the afternoons and often include a ride through the dunes on a camel, jeep or even 4 wheelers.
Dubai Mall – I have to at stop by and explore a bit. From what I read the hard part will be not losing track of time there.
Dubai Museum – I like to visit a museum every city I visit to check out the local history and rich culture.
Burj Khalifa – This is the tallest building in the world. Need I say more?
Souk Madinat Jumeirah – I don’t know if I’ll be bringing much home, but I definitely want to check out this re-creation of a traditional marketplace.
Emirates Palace – I’m tempted to have high tea here. My cousin mentioned something about them sprinkling real gold on the top of the cappuccinos.
Grand Mosque – I don’t think this one needs much of an explanation. I plan on making time to check out this holy place on Sunday.
Hot Air Balloon at Sunrise – I’m being treated to this and I’m hoping we can do it Friday or Saturday morning. I’m sure the view from the balcony of the Burj Khalifa won’t touch this.
I haven’t started packing yet, but I have an idea of what I should bring and thanks to United Airlines I have a new suitcase. I’ll be using my packing cubes again since they worked so well last time and I’ll make sure I throw a bikini or two in there. The weather’s been mirroring Houston’s as far as heat goes so it shouldn’t be that bad. Now here comes the part where I take suggestions. Any tips on which restaurants or bars I should hit up? From what I’ve read there seems to be a bar/club in just about every hotel and it’s always ladies night somewhere. Please feel free to comment below or tweet me with your suggestions.