Spent a few days around the New Years in Dubai. This was our first visit. We were dazzled by the newer and shiny buildings everywhere.
Before Day 1, I was apprehensive of dress code - both weather wise & culturally. Turns out I was mistaken. Dubai turned out to be mid-way between India & US - midway in every way. In December, the temps were 18C to 22C; very pleasant, never cold or hot. And the general crowd was touristy, well-groomed, dressed in the fashionable western styles.
December turned out to the be most pleasant & costliest time to visit Dubai.
Gevora Hotel
We stayed on Al Zayed stretch in Genova Hotel.
Heavy traffic but always flowing. Taxies and app based cars abound. Food, restaurants, pharmacy everywhere. Dotted lines on road. become wavier near the stop. First I thought melted tar because of heat. Turned out that,s the pattern everywhere.
Metro line right outside the hotel. Wonderful view of Dubai. Got to see the Bean-shaped The Museum of The Future in Dubai at Sheikh Zayed Road and Dubai Frame through all our drives around the city.
Vape & Shikha & smoke everywhere. Smell overload with cigarettes, perfumes, room freshener & car smoke etc. Remember to bring your inhaler if you need it.
Gold Souk in Old Dubai
Sight to behold - with gold on display everywhere. Shops in 2-3 streets.
We did the showy Turkish ice-cream experience here. The adjoining streets are all kinds of souk - Mattress souk, etc. Reminded of Cottonpet-Chickpet area near State Bank & Majestic of Bangalore.
Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is easy to get lost in. No markers or maps. Go at your own risk or if you just want to get lost & spend relaxing time.
For New Years viewing, we walked from the Hotel to the mall. Traffic had been stopped and taxis stopped ferrying by noon itself.
Large crowds this time as Sharjah fireworks were cancelled. Spent the entire half of the day waiting for midnight. It was fun with the crowds.
And we were rewarded with an heartwarming fireworks & laser display on Bruj Khalifa.
Burj Khalifa
Tour to the observatory for a birds eye view of Dubai.
Dubai Marina
Visited the marina for a booked yacht tour.
The tour took us our of the area and around Palm Jumeriah and lobal village.
It became dark & night while returning. So got the night view of the places as well.
Very enjoyable tour.
Abu Dhabi
We took a day trip to Abu Dhabi city and visited the sights.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque - largest mosque in the region and beautifully made.
Royal Palace.
Beautiful memories
