Dubai
The flight with Emirates was excellent and with it only being 6 hours, it is an easy distance with youngsters in tow. Dubai airport was amazing, clean and well signposted and we received our first taste of the exceptionally high customer service levels visitors receive in Dubai.
We stayed at the Habtoor Grand Hotel & Spa which is on Jumeirah Beach near to the Marina. It is approximately 40 minutes drive by taxi but this is the best way to get around. Taxis are cheap and plentiful and the driving can be fast and stressful so it is a better option than a hiring a car. The suite at the hotel was great for a family of 4 as it was spacious and the hotel buffet breakfast included in the rate was extensive with Middle Eastern, Asian and European cuisine. I also liked this hotel for families as the pool area is landscaped and there are two waterslides which were great fun.
Dubai has so much to offer visitors as it is both a beach and a city destination. It has ultra modern buildings, including the iconic Burj al-Arab and the world’s tallest building the Burj Khalifa but you also hear the call to prayer sounding out from the mosques nestled in between. Our favourite day out was visiting the traditional souks (markets) in Bur Dubai and Deira and crossing the Creek by abra, a traditional open sided boat costing 1 dirham per person each way. The modern malls are also impressive and house Ski Dubai, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo and Dubai Ice Rink so there is plenty to see and do.
There are several golf clubs including the Dubai Creek Yacht & Golf Club and the Emirates Golf Club. It is also easy to travel into the desert or to neighbouring countries such as Abu Dhabi and Oman but an organised tour, experienced guide or driver is recommended. Dubai is not a cheap destination but one of my recommended must-see’s is actually free - the Dubai Fountain, outside Dubai Mall. There are daily shows which are breathtaking. The choreographed fountain system shoots water into the air to a height of 275 metres! It is also set to a range of classical and contemporary world music –very impressive! Dubai is a destination I now recommend to a range of people, including couples of all ages and families because of the great weather, (avoiding UK summertime as far too hot!) wonderful service, many hotels, great range of places to visit and things to see and do. If you are thinking of a trip to Dubai, I would love to hear from you!