See a different side of Dubai!
DUBAI may be famous for its palm-shaped islands, crazy-high buildings and luxurious beach resorts. But beyond the obvious holiday hangouts, there’s a whole world of fun and fascination that you might not spot at first glance.
Naturally, first-timers won’t want to miss Dubai’s renowned attractions, such as the world-class adventure playgrounds that are Dubai Parks and Resorts and the splashy exhilaration of Wild Wadi and Aquaventure waterparks.
Visitors can shop until they drop in shopping mall heaven, at duty free prices. Or jump in a lift and soar 555metres up to the At The Top viewing deck of the Burj Khalifa — the tallest building on the planet.
Iconic experiences also include afternoon tea at the Burj Al Arab, where you absolutely must experience the ultimate gold cappuccino. Arabica beans and foamed milk are topped with gold flakes and decorated with the image of the Burj sail.
Not forgetting the amazing Friday brunches at hotels such as The Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah — where the theatrical feast features showstopping dishes, interactive service, a saxophonist, magician and DJ.
Needless to say, the nightlife is fantastic; admire Dubai’s skyline and sip cocktails at chic rooftop bars — try Uptown Bar at Jumeirah Beach Hotel or the Luna Sky Bar at Four Seasons Resort Dubai and dance the night away at WHITE Dubai, voted one of Dubai’s clubs of the year by Time Out. Ladies’ Night is every Thursday with free drinks until 1am.
Meanwhile, Dubai’s souks are legendary, so take some time to wander around these traditional Arabic gold, spice, perfume and textile markets and haggle for a bargain. ALTERNATIVE GUIDES BUT we highly recommend that you dig a little deeper to discover this glittering city’s hidden treasures. Best At Travel is a recognised Dubai holiday specialist, with more than 30 years’ experience — and its Middle East travel experts all have first-hand knowledge of their most popular destination. In fact, Best At Travel has scoured Dubai to bring you an alternative travel guide, filled with the best things to do. You can read it on its travel blog, The Edit.
Families are amazingly well catered for, as the guides point out, with inspiring new play parks, museums and food stalls popping up every year.
Take the interactive Oli Oli children’s museum, with its eight themed areas – think water play, paper rocket and fortbuilding zones. And don’t miss Toshi’s nets — a vast room of colourful nylon crocheted into climbing walls, swings and tunnels by 77-year-old Japanese textile artist, Toshiko MacAdam.
Fashionistas can make their break even more stylish by browsing vintage clothes at Bambah boutiques, or sipping cocktails at Siddharta Lounge.
Grab a seat on a silky cushion in the tiered garden, which has 360-degree views over the Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah and the Arabian Gulf, and indulge in a spot of people-watching — this is where Dubai’s wealthy and famous come to eat and drink.
In fact, Dubai is Instagram heaven. With topaz-blue sea, shimmering skyscrapers and slick surroundings, your grid will be filled with wander lust inspiring pictures.
For the best food and interior shots, head to Flamingo Room by Tashas. The ultra-chic and glamorous dining room features dusty-pink ceilings, Seventies-inspired statement lighting, zebra-print fabrics and plush velvet chairs, while the dishes, including Lobster Benedict, are some of the prettiest meals in town.
Meanwhile you can get your culture fix by visiting the lofty galleries run by the region’s most respected artists, trying pearl diving or falconry in the desert, or taking to the streets to explore the local food scene with Frying Pan Adventures.
Think Dubai is just shopping and sunbathing? Think again. It’s the destination that’s got it all. What’s more, with Best At Travel, you’ll get the best service at the best prices.