Dubai
Dubai is an ever changing city and is on the rise to become a premier tourist destination mostly targeting family tourism.
I have been to Dubai 3 times now , and every single time I have been amazed to see the development of this city. This time was thanks to the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) who hosted over 300 travel agents from various African countries on a 6 day familiarization tour of this majestic city.
And majestic it is....from the towering Burj Khalifa (#BurjKhalifa) to the resolve of the ruling monarch Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to turn this once barren city to a flourishing oasis in the United Arab Emirates.
These are the words you will read to in the entrance to the tallest building in the world that illustrates the determination of this city to become a premier tourist destination.
Accommodation in Dubai ranges from basic to pure luxurious indulgence.
We were hosted by the JW Marriot in Downtown Dubai just a short distance from the Mall of Emirates and Burj Khalifa. This is a stunning business hotel that has the tallest twin towers of any hotel chain. Their rooms are spacious and their bathrooms were the size of my dining room. Their breakfast selection seemed infinite and over a 5 days stay I had a different breakfast style everyday including a selection of gelato!
We were privileged to be hosted by several hotels in Dubai ranging in star rating and type. If you want pure luxury, then the Kempinski Hotel's Aspen Chalet Suite is the way to go. There are 3 bedrooms over 3 floors of this stunning suite. This is the only suite in the world can boast views to snow and desert sun. As the Kempinski is situated in the Mall of Emirates they are adjacent to Ski Dubai and the lounge and dining room and 2 bedroom have views of the ski ramps. For uniquely created cocktails specifically for the Kempinski head to The Noir Lounge and Cocktail Bar or Mosaic Chill Terrace. Tip: Ladies Night is Wednesday and unlimited drinks for a single cover charge.
Not to be outdone, The St Regis Hotel boasts The Bentley Suite. The TV lounge is the ultimate man cave complete with Bentley styled furnishings. Even the throw cushions have seatbelts! The St Regis epitomizes French luxury to the French Cuisine served in the Brasserie Quartier to the quaint Patisserie.
For family stays I would recommend the Rotana Group of Hotels specifically the Rotana Arjaan. These apartments are your home away from home and you may not want to leave. Next best I would recommend Gloria Hotel which is ideally situated near the Marina and has a subway stop on its doorstep.
You will never be bored on vacation in Dubai. The city aims to provide experiences for all ages and one of the aims of the tourism department is become a family orientated destination. To kick off your stay start with a city tour on The Hop On and Hop Off Bus. In the evening you can head off for a desert safari. You will be treated to some dune bashing, camel rides, delicious food and middle eastern entertainment. If you looking to cool off, you have a choice of 2 waterparks, Wild Wadi or Atlantis or head to Ski Dubai instead.
A day can be spent in Dubai Mall itself. While you shop till you drop, your kids can be entertained in Kidzania. KidZania is an interactive children’s sized city that encourages education through play. The mall is home to the Dubai Aquaruim and Underwater Zoo and the Dubai Ice Rink as well. And obviously you can't leave until you have visited the top of the world's tallest building in far more safer manner than Tom Cruise. Don't miss the fountain show in front of the Burj Khalifa which is considered better than the Bellagio Fountain Show...
Soon the Dubai Parks and Resort will be opening. It’s the home of three world-class theme parks, Legoland, MotionGate and Bollywood Parks and one water park, as well as Riverland Dubai, the grand entrance plaza, and a Polynesian themed family resort.
For Marvel fans, IMG World is opening this month. Get ready to be thrilled by Spiderman and the Avengers rides featured in the park.
Dubai is a safe, clean and family friendly destination. Dubai is now also becoming a city of choice to spend New Year's Eve. Check out the amazing show that visitors are treated to ...
A quick stopover is not enough time to explore the city and a 5 day itinerary is recommended. For any travel tips and help your with your vacation to Dubai mail me at enquiries@travelpursuit.co.za
Till next time.....
