The Magic that is Dubai!

Dubai had been part of my travel wish list for quite some time. Everything fell into place recently and my wish came true :)

The majestic Burj Khalifa

Dubai is everything what you've already heard of and more.. The playground for the rich and famous, City of Gold, yada yada.. Oh! and yes, there are Malayalis.. Loads of 'em :P That aside, the city's infrastructure is a constant reminder of the awesome power of the human mind.. The Burj Khalifa and the Burj Al Arab are the superstars here.. Every damn souvenir you see.. May it be a tee or even a teeny mobile charm.. They're there!! Apart from the engineering marvels, the beautiful sandy beach with its turquoise blue waters and the never ending majestic desert will definitely leave you spellbound.. All in all the city looks the perfect setting for any Arabian nights story (well, if there is a modern version of the same) :P

Must see, must dos:

•  One must go on a tiny city tour to check out the culture, the people, the various attractions and shopping arenas Dubai has to offer. You can step out anytime day or night the city is totally safe and the locals are very helpful.. So take a walk, familiarize yourself with the places surrounding your hotel.
• Want to get a feel of the Arabian desert winds? Then you must not miss the Desert Safari... The most amazing way to experience the desert EVER!! The 4X4 wheel dune bashing drive, dirt biking, camel rides, a barbeque dinner and entertainment in a desert camp in the middle of nowhere is truly worth it.
• A visit to Dubai would be incomplete without visiting the Burj Khalifa- The tallest building in the World. Getting a ride on the fastest elevator in the World which takes you from 0 to 124th floor (where the observation deck is) in a minute can give you bitter- sweet/ great feeling! The view is absolutely breathtaking when your 452 meters above the sea level.. literally makes you feel like you're the King of the World :)
• Also, don't miss a chance to stay at the Atlantis- a luxury resort on top of the man-made islands of Palm Jumairah. Or you can also just visit the resort and spend your day at Aquaventure- a kickass water park and the Lost Chambers- an beautiful aquarium showcasing a vibrant collection of aquatic life forms which is bound to take your breath away.
• If you've got more time at hand and a car enthusiast, you could visit the Ferrari World Abu Dubai which will definitely blow your mind away with its simulators, exhibits and Ferrari themed rides
• Shop like there's no tomorrow!! In Dubai you get to splurge your heart's content on something small as a keychain to a gold plated Iphone!! With its various malls and shopping centres, it has something to offer for everyone!!! 



The Arabian Desert

• Not to forget the food... If you're a foodie, the trip wouldn't be complete without trying the local cuisine.. Believe me, the Shawarmas and Falafels are to die for here!! :)

 Thumbs down to:

• Dhow Cruise: when I first heard about it, I thought a cruise along the creek of Dubai with food and entertainment would be a fun thing to do but in reality nobody mentioned to me that the food would suck, the entertainment would be a mallu magician and the boat would be old and dirty... This is just a tourist rip off.. Instead one can just take a taxi to the creek and take a walk, the experience is more amazing this way :)
• The heat is UNBEARABLE...Especially from May to August.. So make sure you always carry your umbrella and your shades to protect yourself during the day.

All in all.. Dubai really matched up to my expectations, making me want to come back for more... It's fun, it has a hidden beauty to it and it's got something for everyone!! I would highly recommend a pit-stop here if you are west bound or just want have a fun filled holiday with family or friends..