As a Travel Specialist, I’m often referred to as a “Resolution Manager.” In any tour, unexpected challenges can arise, and coming out of a pandemic, as you can imagine, there are a few items to be aware of. It’s my privilege to walk you through them because traveling now and in the future will be different. I encourage you to embrace the changes; they will make us better for it.
Before I dive into the exciting details of my latest adventure in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, let me share some valuable tips to consider before embarking on your own journey:
1) Seek Specials from Your Airline: On this trip, we were fortunate to receive free tickets for Expo 2020 Dubai from Emirates Airlines. This unexpected perk saved us approximately $45 per ticket. Keep an eye out for such deals, as they can make a significant difference in your travel budget.
2) Currency Exchange: It’s crucial to find the best place to exchange currency. Typically, your tour guide will have the local knowledge to help you get the most value for your money. Don’t hesitate to ask for their recommendations.
3) Tipping Etiquette: Understanding local tipping customs is essential. Your tour guide will provide information on what is customary, but it’s a good idea to have small bills on hand for this purpose.
4) Packing Essentials: Comfort is key when exploring new destinations. Ensure you have comfortable shoes for walking and a good pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s rays. Knowing the weather conditions in advance can also help you pack appropriately.
5) Stay Informed About COVID Requirements: In today’s world, knowing the COVID requirements for your destination is paramount. We were required to have our vaccination cards and current test results with us at every venue we visited. This knowledge was essential for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Dubai: Where Dreams Become Reality
Dubai, the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates with a total of 3.5 million inhabitants, is located on the eastern Arabian peninsula on the Persian Gulf Coast. Dubai’s economy relies on trade, tourism, aviation, real estate, and financial services. I was immensely impressed by how clean Dubai and the surrounding areas are compared to many cities we’re accustomed to.
One of the most impressive aspects of our trip was how Dubai has handled the COVID situation. Statistics show that 95% of the population has had at least one dose of the vaccine, and 85% are fully vaccinated. In fact, one of our tour guides was required to have at least four doses of the vaccine for his job. To enter any of the venues, our group needed to present vaccine cards and a PCR report that showed negative for signs of COVID.
Dubai is a city that never ceases to amaze, and our journey began with a visit to the iconic Burj Khalifa. Standing atop this soaring skyscraper, we marveled at the breathtaking 360-degree views of Dubai, capturing the city, desert, and ocean in a single glance.
The Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah offered a glimpse into a world of luxury living. These man-made marvels are a testament to human ingenuity and ambition, making for fantastic photo opportunities.
Crossing the creek via an Abra water taxi, we explored the Old Souks of Dubai, where the rich heritage of the city came to life. The bustling markets, filled with the scent of spices and the glitter of gold, were a feast for the senses.
Our adventure took a thrilling turn with a Desert Safari. We navigated the sand dunes in a 4X4 land-cruiser, capturing the enchanting desert sunset views. Camel rides, henna designs, and traditional Arabic coffee made this experience unforgettable.
Abu Dhabi: Elegance and Culture
Abu Dhabi, the capital and the second most populous city in the United Arab Emirates with a population of 1.8 million, is located on the Central Persian West Coast. Our day trip to Abu Dhabi unveiled a world of elegance and culture. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was a breathtaking masterpiece, accommodating thousands of worshippers. Its sheer grandeur, adorned with the world’s largest chandelier and carpet, left us in awe.
Lunch at the opulent Emirates Palace was a culinary delight, and the architecture was equally impressive. The Qasr Al Watan palace offered an immersive journey into the culture, knowledge, and craftsmanship of the UAE, while the Louver Museum showcased art and culture on a grand scale.
As we wrap up our journey through Dubai and Abu Dhabi, I hope these insights and tips will prove valuable for your future adventures. Embrace change, stay informed, and open your heart to the wonders of the world. The beauty of travel lies in its ability to transform us, and Dubai and Abu Dhabi certainly did that for us. Safe travels, fellow adventurers!